Triple-treat with SUMAIYA SHIMU

For two decades, Sumaiya Shimu has been charming audiences with her irresistible smile. Even though her presence on television has become somewhat sporadic, she will grace television screens with two special tele-fictions. She elaborates about them in this interview. 

Could you tell us about your upcoming tele-fiction, 'Joytu'?

I am actually playing a triple role in this tele-fiction. I am playing a Birangona, a rural college-going girl and a non-resident Bangladeshi woman who has returned to the country. It was a great experience, since I had to work with three different attires. Joytu is directed by Simanto Sajal, and will be broadcast on SA TV on December 14.

How difficult was it, playing three roles for a single project?

It was challenging indeed, as the three characters were polar opposites of each other. The make-up, accent and overall characters were very different. However, I welcomed the challenge, as I am not doing orthodox roles at the moment anyway. I am always a completely different person in front of the camera, and blend myself completely with the setting.

You have been in the industry for about two decades now. What are your thoughts on the industry right now?

My only qualm about it is the fact that we have to finish an hour-long tele-fiction in two to three days. To be honest, I feel like if we had more of a budget, and took our time with the product that we are bringing forth, the results would be much better. As of now, I often feel a sense of regret when I think about how much better a certain tele-fiction or drama could have been if given proper care.

Which other projects are you working on?

I have finished shooting for Jadur Shohore Notun Bhor directed by Mansoor Alam Nirjhar. I think everyone needs to see this, as it raises awareness about a very important topic that I will not disclose at the moment. It will air on Nagorik TV on December 21.