Website, archives and grants unveiled in honour of Aly Zaker
Aly Zaker is a personality that does not need any introduction; words aren't enough to describe his accomplishments and how he brought life to many characters in both theatre and TV. The gifted actor is often called the lighthouse for the theatre and television industry of Bangladesh.
Today marks the 77th birth anniversary of the eminent actor and freedom fighter who revolutionised the world of advertising, with his creation of Asiatic 360.
In order to honour his lifelong philosophy and his numerous creations, Mongol Deep Foundation, along with his family, took the initiative to launch "Batighor"- an archive of Aly Zaker's creative works, a website, and a grant programme to help flourish young talents.
The programme, titled 'Biraj Satya Sundor' was hosted by Shankar Sajal, an imminent photographer and media personality. The media personality talked at length about how his absence created a void in the hearts of his peers and his loved ones.
Asaduzzaman Noor remembered the "Aaj Robibar" actor fondly.
"Aly Zaker and I have known each other for 50 years and together we started the advertising agency with the motto that each and every one of us is 'family members. I have worked with him in various tele-fictions and theater. Chotlu bhai (Aly Zaker) played an important role in both my personal life and career front," mentions the actor.
Iresh Zaker, who shares his birthday with the thespian Aly Zaker became emotional on reminiscing his last memories.
"When I heard about his cancer, I literally broke down but he remained strong and encouraged me to not break down with the news. I want to be a father like him who can inspire and instill such strong values in his children," mentions Iresh Zaker.
Iresh Zaker then went on to introduce the website www.alyzaker.love which showcases his life, philosophy, his passion for photography. He also announced that the "Aly Zaker Grant", which will be launched soon.
"Every year, we are hoping to provide grants to support budding talents in the field of creativity and theater. I am also curating personal textbooks to write his biography," adds Iresh.
Aly Zaker's wife and confidante, Sara Zaker also emphasised the grant programme dedicated to the veteran artiste.
An endowment is created using funds inherited by his family.
The endowment will be divided into three ways.
Three new theater productions will be funded at the "The Aly Zaker Theater Festival" around November 6.
Grants will be awarded to graduate program students of the Natyakala (Drama) Department of the University of Dhaka.
Grants will be awarded to graduate program students pursuing advertising and media studies.
"Today we will inaugurate "Batighor" and while my room is called "Oparajita". Ironically, Asaduzzaman Noor's room was named "Basher Kella". Asiatic is gradually growing big day by day and I hope the spirit of the family remains the same as before," mention Sara Zaker.
Sriya Sharbojoya also talked about the upcoming release of the book 'Amader Batighor"
"A lot of wonderful articles and stories have been written about my dad after his demise. We are compiling those stories and will soon launch the book "Amader Batighor". We are also in the process of translating his autobiography which will consist of lots of unheard stories," mentions Sriya.
"His room which was named "Batighor" has been left exactly the same as it was before. His favourite cream cracker jar, the way he arranges his pens has been arranged exactly the same way," adds Aly Sriya.
National award-winning actor Tariq Anam Khan recalled his fond memory of the eminent actor.
"Humayun Faridi once told me that he is envious of Aly Zaker for playing such versatile characters. Faridi believed that nobody could go into the character so deep like him. It's true he has acted out roles that would take us ages to enact on stage. He was part of "Macbeth", "Galileo", "Tempest", and many more," mentions the actor.
"How can an actor who has played such tremendous roles be so down to earth in real life. I don't think anyone including me could ever level up to his achievements," concludes Tariq Anam.
The event also showcased the presence of prominent guests such as The Daily Star's Editor and Publisher Mahfuz Anam, CEO and Managing Director of Unilever Bangladesh, Zaved Akhtar, Bangladeshi social and human rights activist, and MP, Aroma Dutta, Mamunur Rashid, and Dr. Sarower Ali.
At the end of the programme, 5 candles were lit honouring the legendary actor and thespian Aly Zaker. All the chief guests at the programme posed for a picture at the end of the ceremony.