MEETING SATYAJIT RAY
Bengali, as a culture and people, is almost indistinguishable from Satyajit Ray. The pride he has brought to us is beyond measure, and the position demanded by his name and legacy is beyond individual preferences, likes and dislikes. When I was very little, I met the brilliance of Satyajit Ray through Feluda, and after reading hundreds of stories he had written, I even gathered the courage to write him a letter, back in 1982 when I was still in school. Imagine my joy when he answered! I must have read that letter a hundred times. But today's story is not really about Satyajit, at least not directly. It's rather about one person's relationship with him, and knowledge of him. Other than photographer Amanul Haque, there is one Bangladeshi who knew the master storyteller closely, who has known him for over three decades, and became almost like family to him. Satyajit Ray did not usually allow too many outsiders near the set during shooting or production, but he would invite her to be present and value her opinions. Those who know about Satyajit Ray, you've probably already guessed, I'm talking about Sayeeda Khanum, or as the Ray family used to call her, Badal. Satyajit Ray was born in May, and he died in April. Then why are we covering this story at this time of the year? Because this is the time for Celebrating Life, whose Award Giving Ceremony is about to be organized. For those who may not know, Celebrating Life is a yearly contest inviting films, photographs and songs and it is a platform that incentivized creative expression as a whole. The contest is organize by The Daily Star and supported by Standard Chartered Bank. Every year, we honour a personality who has made a significant contribution to their field and have enabled their medium to reach a higher level. Back in 2012, the Amanul Haque received this award. This year, we are honoured to have the privilege of bestowing the 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award of Celebrating Life to Sayeeda Khanom. This week, on Star Showbiz, we present the story of Satyajit Ray, as told by his close friend Sayeeda Khanom. Those who love his creations, especially those who love his films, will find this story nothing short of amazing!
Learn more about Celebrating Life at www.celebratinglifebd.com
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