Jitu Ahsan on Syed Ahsan Ali Sydney

"> Little Jitu (2-R) with his Ahsan senior, in a family portrait.

Syed Ahsan Ali Sydney was one of the most popular actors of his time. The man who entertained audiences on small screen with his powerful performances, died on February 14, 2002. Son of the legendary artiste, Jitu Ahsan -- a TV actor himself -- reminisced on his father in a conversation with The Daily Star:
“Me and my father were very close; I have many fond memories of him.
“I arrived in the acting arena in the footsteps of my father. In 1982, I made my debut in a TV play where I played the role of my father's youngest son. Later, I worked in numerous plays with him.
“I worked in a short film “Lal Balloon” with him, along with the play “Khela Bhanga” in 1996, when I was quite young. I was always worried of watching my plays in front of him, fearing of his criticism. He always wanted to see me at my best. Once while he was seriously ill, he watched me act in the play “Joar Bhata” directed by Abdullah Al Mamun. He did point out a mistake and suggested how I could improve my performance.
“He was a large-hearted person, and very open minded too. I was greatly influenced by his personality. It is only after his demise that I felt he had been like a towering figure for me. I could easily share everything with him; he would always listen patiently.
“During my childhood, it was fixed that we would all visit Cox's Bazar every winter. Accordingly, along with several other families we took our car for a short visit to Cox's Bazar every winter, and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
“Once, abba was in Kolkata on his birthday. I sent him a birthday card at the address. On his arrival, he exclaimed his joy of getting the card as the most precious gift.
“He enjoyed treating people and had meals with family members and had a lot of fun.
“It was about 20 years ago when he celebrated Pahela Baishakh at our home for the first time. He invited all close friends and relatives on the occasion and at the same time asked them to bring a dish. We had a great time.
“He had been ailing for a long time, when he breathed his last in my presence. I found him sleepy as he wanted to talk to me and placed his head on my lap. After a few moments, he passed away. I feel somewhat fortunate I was near him in his last moments.”