Remembering Challenger on his 10th death anniversary

A S M Tofazzal Hossain, known by his on-screen name Challenger, entered the showbiz industry under the guidance of Humayun Ahmed. His debut tele-fiction was "Hablong-er Bazar" (2000). Today marks his 10th death anniversary.

Throughout his career, he has mostly been seen in Humayun Ahmed ventures, be it films or tele-fictions. His debut film was "Dui Duari" (2000). It was the legendary writer writer who named him 'Challenger', because of his high-spirited persona that overcame all challenges.

Facing his struggles head-on, he took care of his siblings. With time, money and fame both graced his doorsteps. However, in 2010, he passed away after a battle with cancer at the age of 51.

Challenger has worked in over 200 television dramas. His performance in "Montri Mohodoyer Agomon Shuveccha Shagotom" was well received by the audience.

His co-actor Riaz commemorates his experience of working with Challenger in this production. "He was very humble and kind-hearted," he said. "He portrayed his characters extraordinarily but with so much ease, and that's what I miss on sets these days."

"Brikkho Manab," "Bhorer Haat," "Shawkat Shaheber Gari Kena," "Jamunar Jol Dekhtey Kalo," "Chandra Karigor," "Gani Shaheber Shesh Kichhudin," "Kala Koitor," "Lilaboti," "Juta Baba," "Salek Dofadar," "Warrant", Urey Jai Bok Pokkhi", "Pishach Makbul", "Aziz Saheb Er Pap" and "Dholbatti" feature some of his memorable performances.

The actor has also been a part of many super-hit films, including "Shyamol Chhaya" (2005), "Lal Sobuj" (2005), "Daruchini Dip" (2007) and "Noy Number Bipod Sanket" (2007), among others. With his natural onscreen presence, the actor enchanted the audience of all age-groups.

The late actor has also worked with other directorial legends, including renowned actor-director-screenwriter Salauddin Lavlu in "Bhorer Haat". "Losing Challenger has created a vacuum and it is yet to be filled," he says.

His younger sister Monira Mithu is also a well known television actor. "Even after all these years, I find it hard to believe that my brother is gone," she shares. "No one can take his place."

Translated by Ashley Shoptorshi Samaddar.