‘We will make FDC great again’
Nipun Akhter made headlines when she finally secured her victory as General Secretary of Bangladesh Film Artistes Association last year. The "Shajghor" actress has a lot of surprises in store as she is shooting for a thriller web-film "Opolap" and also bagged a nomination for Best Actress for her film "Birotto" at the 'Meril Prothom Alo Awards 2022'.
In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, Nipun divulges about her upcoming plans for association, movies and more.
What are your plans as the General Secretary of Film Artistes' Association?
Most filmmakers are shooting their films elsewhere, as our camera and floor rent is little expensive. We are trying to resolve these issues by trying to incorporate new changes by addressing these complaints to the MD, and also the Ministry of Information. We are also working on halls specially in the rural areas, where people can't enjoy movies in a suitable condition. Kanchan bhai (Ilias Kanchan) and I took a pledge to fix FDC for good.
Tell us about your web-film 'Opolap', opposite Imtiaz Barshon.
I am playing Barshon's wife in the web-film. My character name is Shumi and she is this simple wife who becomes a victim of a murder mystery. Barshan is a wonderful and amazing co-artiste who has a lot of potential. Hopefully, we will get to see him in movies.
Earlier on, you said that you would be bringing the Prime Minister to FDC. When do you plan on implementing it?
This was the first thing on my mind, when I officially became GS in November. We have already sent a letter to the PM. We will soon give a formal invitation to the her, to come and visit our FDC. We will give our 110 percent to fulfil this dream for our beloved FDC.
Do you consider yourself as a heroine or an actress?
I would prefer to be called a human being, rather being labelled like 'heroine' or 'actress'. However, if I had to give myself a title—I would definitely identify as an actress and not a heroine—as I don't want to stereotype myself.
Recently, your statement on crediting Chanchal Chowdhury's success to Shilpi Samity has been talked about a lot.
I am a huge fan of Chanchal Chowdhury and we have worked together in a super hit drama, "Laise Fita". He has achieved a lot and as an association we are proud to have such a wonderful artiste. He is representing us in the international arena, and it would be ridiculous if we didn't acknowledge it.
Do you want to leave a message for your female fans?
I came into this industry when my daughter was only 4 years old, so I would tell them to pursue their dreams no matter what. If I can do it then everyone can, regardless of age or marital status. I would ask actresses to whole-heartedly pursue acting, irrespective of any boundaries.