“Kenya was out of this world”
Popular actor Sumaiya Shimu has earned repute over the last 15 years. She has won over audiences with notable performances in TV plays. The hardworking actor is preparing for new projects this year. Recently, The Daily Star got in touch with Shimu about her life on and off screen:
What are your new ventures?
Shimu: I have wrapped up a single-episode TV play titled “Adil er Suitcase” where I play a character named Salma. It is directed by RIP Billah. We shot the play in Pubail as the play has a rural setting. Next week I will begin shooting for new TV plays again, and there is a high possibility of working in TV serials.
How has 2016 been for you?
Shimu: It wasn't a good year. I lost my father who had been suffering from a debilitating illness. His loss has left a void that I cannot fill. But life goes on, and I look forward to this year with high hopes.
What do you most enjoy in your spare time?
Shimu: It depends; sometimes I read a book, or watch a movie, or I travel. The last movie I watched was “The Proposal.”
Where have you last traveled?
Shimu: I last visited Kenya. My husband accompanied me, and we spent 10 days there. It's a splendid country with so much to do and we had a great time.
What did you enjoy most from your travels in Kenya?
Shimu: I have always desired to visit the country, and to explore the deep jungles of Africa in general. The trip was nothing short of amazing. There is so much to see there…I was absolutely transfixed from the moment we stepped out from the plane. I absolutely loved Nairobi's National Park. We also spent one night in a bungalow situated deep in the forests. In the morning I woke up to see deer flitting by, very close to where I was standing. Another day I was able to see a lion up close. I was also able to visit the homes of locals; to see how they live was simply amazing. There are 43 tribes in Kenya, each with their own customs and culture. The greenery that surrounded us no matter where we went was absolutely out of this world.
Apart from acting, is there anything else you enjoy doing?
Shimu: I love gardening. I have lots of plants and trees at my house, and there are many nurseries across the street from where I get them. Apart from those nurseries I also frequent Agargaon and Shishu Academy premises. To me, gardening is therapeutic, and I love being surrounded by greenery.
Who does the shopping in your family?
Shimu: Sometimes my husband volunteers to do it, and I take care of it on some days as well. Nobody is pressured to take up the task; whoever has time usually takes it up.
Is there a song you turn to when you are stressed or sad?
Shimu: I love songs with soft melodies, and I play them whenever I am home alone, standing in the balcony and looking out onto the street. It's something I look forward to whenever I have the house to myself.
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