“I want to keep working for as long as I can “– Mamunur Rashid
Ekushey Padak and National Award winning actor, director and playwright Mamunur Rashid spearheads Aranyak Natyadal, one of the most popular theatre companies in Bangladesh. He has also served as the chairman for Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation twice. We sat down for a chat with the thespian, who celebrates his birthday today.
How do you feel on the occasion of your birthday?
Since my birthday only comes on leap years, it is something that I eagerly wait for. It is particularly a happy day for me.
Could you tell us a little about the celebrations that Aranyak Natyadal is hosting for your birthday?
Aranyak Natyadal has arranged a six-day celebration, from February 27 to March 3 at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. Among other things, six of my plays will be staged throughout the event, which I am really excited about. We are happy that Samik Bandyopadhyay from India will be attending the programme.
Aranyak Natyadal is premiering their latest play at the event. What can you tell us about that?
The new play, Kohe Facebook, is Aranyak Natyadal's 62nd production. I have written and directed it. Working on this project was quite a challenge, but it has been a while since we have come up with a new play on the stage, so, we are all looking forward to the experience. Kohe Facebook will be staged at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy today.
What are your comments on the current state of the theatre arena of Bangladesh?
The sad fact is that artistic and cultural practices are not fully encouraged in Bangladesh – but the situation is much more positive in other parts of the world. However, if we overcome certain barriers, the theatre culture in our country will flourish.
What are your biggest aspirations as an artiste?
I feel that my best is yet to come. I think I still have not hit any milestones in my career. I am incredibly thankful to people for all their love and support over the years, but as an artiste, I still have a lot to accomplish. I want to keep working for as long as I can.
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