A walk down the memory lane:Anjana Sultana

Photo: Courtesy

National Film Award winner Anjana Sultana is a prominent name in the Bangladeshi film industry. The talented actor is also known for her dancing prowess, for which she also won an award. Having acted in 300 films throughout her illustrious career, Anjana starred opposite all the popular actors of her time, and most of the films turned out to be successful. During a chat with The Daily Star, the actor reflects on her golden days.

“My first film to be released was Doshshu Bonhur, which was a blockbuster, produced under Sohel Rana's production house and directed by the late Shamsuddin Togor,” recollects Anjana. “However, the first film that I acted in was titled Shetu, which was directed by the late Babul Chowdhury and was also well received by the audience. I signed both the films during the same period.”

 The actor recalls her first acting experience at Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). She mentions that prior to her acting career, she was a popular dance artiste on television. As a result, she was familiar with the sets and had no trouble when shooting for films.

At one point in her career, Anjana was contacted by the renowned director Khan Ataur Rahman, who was a close companion of her father. She was chosen to act in his film Matir Maya and shared the screen space with famous actor Faruk, while Sucharita was cast alongside Alamgir. Upon its release, the film was an instant hit amongst the audience.

Oshikhkhito was the Anjana's fifth film, and a turning point in her life. It was produced under Satya Saha's production company and directed by Azizur Rahman. “I was taken aback with joy when I was offered the role for the film and told that superstar Razzak will be my co-star,” exclaims Anjana. “This film set a bench mark in my career. Songs from the film are even popular to this day.”

As her prominence began to spread across the film industry, Anjana went on to act in many more films. She reminisces the good old days of her acting career. She once went to Gulistan Cinema Hall to watch the film Doshshu Bonhur and encountered the crowd there. “The house-full audience greeted me with a warm welcome when I waved at them. I still cannot forget their immense affection.”

Recollecting her memories, Anjana mentions that she also went to USA to shoot for a film along with the cast including, Jashim, Shabana, Tele Samad, Mahmud Koli and others. She remembers the good times they shared after the shooting sessions. She also misses those who passed away. The film Porinita was another memorable film for the actor. Anjana played the role of Lolita in the Alamgir Kabir directorial. She was awarded with the prestigious BACHSAS Awards and the National Film Award for her performance in the film.

“That is how my career in the industry began to flourish. When I look back, many of my colleagues are no more. However, the fraternity is my life,” adds Anjana. “Currently, I enjoy spending time with my son, Moni. He is everything to me. But whenever possible, I do not hesitate to reminisce about the beautiful moments that gave meaning to my life.”