Renowned actor Wasim laid to rest
Renowned actor Wasim passed away in a city hospital early yesterday.
He was 71.
His actual name was Mesbahuddin Ahmed, but he was known by his stage name Wasim.
The actor, who had been suffering from brain, nerve, and heart complications, died in the capital's Shahabuddin Medical College Hospital around 12:30am.
Zayed Khan, general secretary of Bangladesh Cholochitro Shilpi Samiti, confirmed the news of his demise.
Wasim is survived by his son Dewan Fardun. His wife passed away in 2000, and he lost his only daughter Bushra Ahmed in an accident in 2006.
Born on March 23, 1950, in Sutrapur, Dhaka, Wasim spent his childhood in Mymensingh, as his father, a government officer, was posted there. He was crowned "Mr East Pakistan" for his bodybuilding and fitness in 1964.
The actor studied at Mymensingh Zilla School and Anondomohan College in Mymensingh. He pursued his bachelor's and master's in general history from Dhaka University. He worked at Bangladesh Betar after his graduation. Wasim also served as the first secretary general of the National Sports Council.
He entered the film industry as an assistant director in 1972 with the film "Chhando Hariye Gelo", where he also had a cameo role.
Wasim made his silver screen debut as a lead actor in "Raater Por Din" (1973), opposite Babita, directed by Mohsin. After the success of this film, there was no looking back for Wasim. The actor garnered a huge fan following with his brilliance in different films.
His film "The Rain" (1976), directed by SM Shafi, gained acclaim both at home and abroad. Featuring Olivia Gomez opposite Wasim, the movie was dubbed in 46 languages and released in over 46 countries worldwide.
Wasim worked in over 150 films in his illustrious career. His notable releases include "Norom Gorom", "Rajdulari", "Inaam", "Bahadur", "Dost Dushman" (1977), and "Chandan Deeper Rajkonna", among many others.
"I shared the screen with Wasim in my debut film 'Rajmahal' in 1979 and it was a super hit project," said noted actor Rozina.
"Working with such a superstar was a big opportunity for me at the time. We went on to work together in many other films, including 'Bini Shutar Mala', and 'Manoshi'. Wasim has left behind an iconic legacy of work."
"He was a close confidante to me," said noted playback singer Khurshid Alam. "I have lent my voice to several of his popular songs, including 'Chumki Choleche Eka Pothe'. I have many fond memories with him."
Wasim appeared in films with celebrated actors like Shabana, Babita, and Anjana. His chemistry with Olivia Gomez and Anju Ghosh was outstanding.
"I last met him during Obhinoy Shilpi Shongho Bangladesh's elections. He was a charismatic person," shared noted actor Anjana. "These times have been tough for us. We have lost many icons of the industry in the last few months."
Wasim's first namaz-e-janaza was held at Gulshan Azad Mosque after Zuhr prayers yesterday. His second janaza was held at Banani Graveyard, where he was laid to rest.