"In my mind, I am always 26!"

One of the most prominent actors of the national Film industry, Farooque has won numerous prestigious accolades throughout his career. The actor was most recently presented a lifetime achievement award for his indelible contributions in cinema, and has more excitement coming his way as his loved ones gear up for his birthday today. In an interview with The Daily Star, the legendary star talks about his feelings on his birthday.

How are birthdays different today from when you were younger and at the peak of your career?

Everyone in the industry knows how grand my birthdays used to be. I loved big parties then. I would celebrate my birthday in Savar, where I would invite several thousand people. This went on for years, but I've stopped celebrating my birthday for a long time now.

Is there a reason for that?

Ever since Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated in August 1975, I have stopped celebrating them. The month of August is a month of mourning, and I don't have the heart to celebrate anything during this time.

What is your family's stance towards this? Do they celebrate the occasion on your behalf?

My wife and children do celebrate my birthday. My fans as well as the people from my hometown are also keen on this, and I gladly accept their heartfelt wishes. Just because I choose to not celebrate, does not mean I should prevent others from doing so. At home, we do it our own way - my children get a cake as well as some sweets. I tell them to distribute them among the poor, and that is what they do.

How do you plan to spend the day today?

I don't have any specific plans for the day. My close friends might visit me and we shall catch up with each other. My children will bring cake. I always tell them one thing, to celebrate the day grandly once I have moved on from this mortal life.

What has been the greatest achievement in your career?

It would be the love and adulation from people. There is no greater gift or achievement than love.

There are many who greet their birthdays with some despondency as the years go by. What is your attitude towards this?

Oh no, I don't possess that idea at all. I have always been young at heart and I have no regrets. In my mind, I am always 26 years old!