Revisiting Bangladeshi television’s golden era

Television dramas took up a new turn during the 1980s, as the audience experienced timeless stories, including Shongshoptok, Matir Kole, Jonaki Jole, Bhangoner Shobdo Shuni, Ayomoy and Bohubrihi. Looking back on the golden era of the industry, The Daily Star celebrates few of these television classics.

Presented in a parrot’s voice, Bohubrihi’s famous slogan, “Tui Rajakar!” became an everlasting echo for generations. This post-liberation war drama, written by Humayun Ahmed and produced by Newaz Ali Khan, reignited the fire of freedom, seen during the Liberation War. Through their commendable performances, Abul Hayat (Sobhan) Asaduzzaman Noor (Anis), Afzal Hossain (Doctor) and Aly Zaker (Farid Mama), struck a chord with the viewers.

Set during the British Raj, tele-fiction Ayomoy, written by Humayun Ahmed and directed by Nawazish Ali Khan, was an all-time favourite. The drama narrates the tale of a declining Bengali zamindar family.

On the other hand, Imdadul Haq Milan’s adaptation of Shahidullah Kaiser’s Shongshoptok, featuring Ferdousi Mazumder as Hurmoti and Humayun Faridee as ‘Kaankata’ Romzan was critically acclaimed. It was produced by Abdullah Al Mamun, and directed by Humayun Ahmed.

Shongshoptok

Kothau Keu Nei, produced by Barkatullah and directed by Humayun Ahmed, featured Baker Bhai, one of the most beloved characters, played by Asaduzzaman Noor. It marked a revolutionary trend in the industry, as the nation mourned Baker Bhai’s execution.

Moreover, Ei Shob Din Ratri, one of Humayun Ahmed’s most popular contemporary serials, created a new identity for renowned actor Dolly Johur, as people still refer to her as ‘Shimu Bhabi’.

“Chi Chi Mostaan Ra Ato Kharap”, the famous dialogue from Imdadul Haq Milan’s Rupnogor also became a part of the audience’s every-day conversations. Actor Tauquir Ahmed’s performance on the show garnered immense praise. Milan’s Baaro Rokomer Manush was also well received by television buffs.

Shokal Shondha, another timeless show, was produced by Borkutullah and written by Momtaj Begum. Shomoy Oshomoy, Kon Kanoner Phul and Shopner Shohor, produced by Khalilur Abedin Dulal were also popular. 

Without the mention of Kobori’s performance in Matir Kole, produced by Musa Ahmed, Jia Ansari’s Jonaki Jole, and Khalil Ullah Khan’s portrayal of the character Sheraj Talukder in Nasir Uddin Yusuff’s Bhangoner Shobdo Shuni, this list remains incomplete. These are a few of the many outstanding tele-fictions that entertained the Bangladeshi audience through the years.