‘Can’t ask for much more from life’

Today marks the 70th birth anniversary of the Ekushey Padak awardee, eminent actor Raisul Islam Asad. On this auspicious occasion, the actor informed The Daily Star that his friends and close ones remind him of his birthday and his grandson, who will turn 4 this October, has wished him over the phone from the US.

"I don't have much more to ask from life," shared the actor, who was honoured with the National Film Award six times for his work, and a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution towards the film industry. "I want to live a healthy life for at least 15-20 more years. I am satisfied with everything that I have achieved in life, and grateful to everyone who have supported me through my journey."

Raisul Islam Asad began exploring his talent as an artiste with theatre. Collaborating with Dhaka Theatre, one of the most renowned theatre groups in the country, he performed in some of the great stage shows ever. After that, he made his debut as an actor on television and won the hearts of many. Some of his timeless ventures are still discussed by the audience. He did not just limit his talent to the stage and television, and mesmerised the audience with his powerful acting on the silver screen as well.

Still from the film 'Padma Nodir Majhi'

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Looking back with Raisul Islam Asad

"Padma Nodir Majhi" is one of such works that will always be remembered. Some more of his remarkable works are—"Ghuddi", "Lalsalu", "Moner Manush" "Kittonkhela", and "Shurujmia", among others. He made his silver screen debut with the 1973 film, "Abar Tora Manush Ho".

Raisul Islam Asad was last seen in "Operation Sundarban", and played an important role in Shyam Benegal's "Mujib: The Making of a Nation".

He was also appreciated after his work in the Indian Bengali films—Buddhadeb Dasgupta's "Lal Dorja" and Gautam Ghosh's "Moner Manush".