Morshedul Islam to bring Zafar Iqbal’s novel to the big screen

Morshedul Islam (4th from left-front row) and Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal (3rd from right) with others at the mahurat of “Amar Bondhu Rashed.” Photo: Mumit M

"Amar Bondhu Rashed," a popular novel by Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal is going to be adapted into a feature film. Noted filmmaker Morshedul Islam is directing the film with the same title.
'Mahurat' (launch) of the film was held at the Bengal Cafe, Dhanmondi on July 9. Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, secretary-in-charge, Ministry of Information was the chief guest at the event. Among others, Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal; Syed Bazley Hussain, former director, Department of Films and Publication; Hasan Imam and director of the film Morshedul Islam also spoke at the event.
Dr. Chowdhury said, "The government has taken initiatives to encourage filmmakers by providing them with necessary funds in the form of financial aid. We hope that this would promote more quality productions."
"Amar Bondhu Rashed," has received funds from the government under the initiative, said Morshedul Islam.
Thanking the government for the initiative, the filmmaker said, "The biggest challenge for any filmmaker is sourcing necessary funds. The money received from the government only meets one third of the real budget, I'm still trying my best to manage the rest."
Set during the Liberation War, "Amar Bondhu Rashed" tells the story of a group of school students who get involved in the war. The central character Rashed (to be played by Chowdhury Jawata Afnan) goes missing towards the end of the story.
"'Amar Bondhu Rashed' is the only novel I wrote which has a tragic ending. Usually, my stories for children and adolescents have happy endings," said the writer.
"That tragic ending will be maintained in the film to give the young audience an idea of the brutalities of the war," said Dr. Iqbal.
"I am optimistic the film will be a success and provide children with a clear picture of the war," he added.
The film also features seasoned actors Raisul Islam Asad, Pijush Bandyopadhyay, Arman Pervez Murad, Wahida Mallick Jolly and others.
This is the second movie based on a Zafar Iqbal story by Morshedul Islam. The earlier collaboration, "Dipu Number 2," was released in 1996 and was a success.
"Film is a powerful media. It can entertain as well as educate. In our country more films should be made for children," said Morshedul Islam.
His other works for children include "Durotto" (2004) and "Sharat '71" (2000).
Speaking on the upcoming film, Morshedul Islam said, "Bringing characters from pages to the screen is always a difficult task but I'll do my best."
"Amar Bondhu Rashed" will be filmed in Dinajpur. Shooting has started from yesterday.