I want to be part of stories built around women: Badhan
Azmeri Haque Badhan, the National Film Award-winning actor who rose to global recognition with "Rehana Maryam Noor", is returning to the silver screen in a bold new role. Her upcoming film "Esha Murder", directed by Sunny Sanwar, is set for release this Eid, and she plays a police officer for the first time on screen.
Speaking to The Daily Star in an exclusive interview, Badhan confirmed that all preparations are moving toward an Eid release. "We're hoping 'Esha Murder' will hit theatres this Eid. Everything's on track," she said. "It's a fully commercial film, and it should be released that way."
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Badhan had to train extensively to embody her new character. "To play a cop, I had to prepare a lot. I went through proper training, learned how to handle firearms, and worked on physical discipline. Only after that did I feel ready to face the camera."
When asked what viewers can expect from the film, she responded, "Mystery, action, and a strong story—it has it all. There's a lot in this film that audiences will enjoy. Most importantly, the story is solid, and the direction is very good."
Badhan urged her fans to support local cinema by going to theatres. "I believe every viewer should make an effort to watch Bangladeshi films in cinemas. I tell my fans the same thing. I hope they'll do that with 'Esha Murder' as well."
Beyond this release, Badhan is clear about the kind of work she wants to do. "I want to see more female-led stories. Women should be the central characters, and the plot should unfold around them. I want to be part of stories where a woman leads the narrative," she expressed. "But unfortunately, that's still rare."
Reflecting on her experience with the director, she shared, "Sunny Sanwar was very careful and thoughtful in his direction. I'm grateful that he offered me such a meaningful role, and I've tried my best to portray the character with sincerity."
While her international acclaim and appearance in a Bollywood film sparked interest in her next steps, Badhan's presence in local cinema has been limited since.
The actress revealed that two major projects were cancelled. "One was a Bangladesh-India joint production, the other a local film. Both were good projects. They would have been great films," she said. "That's why I haven't been on screen here much. But I'm reading new scripts now—let's see where things go."
On a personal note Badhan spoke about her family: it was her younger brother Anisul Haque Rasa's birthday. Now living in Canada, he recently made a decision that left a lasting impression on her.
"He's decided to divide all family property equally among the siblings when the time comes. That gesture really touched me," she said. "On his birthday, I want to say how much I love him and send him my blessings. I really appreciate that decision."
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