Published on 12:00 AM, November 28, 2015

Cover Story

Bobby For the fans

Bobby is an established star in the Dhallywood film industry, proving the versatility of her talents time and time again. Although she has been in the industry for only half a decade, she has hit it big with producers and directors, acting alongside all the big names of recent times. Star Showbiz met with her and discussed her future plans, along with a few heart to hearts as well.

How did it all start and when were you first recognized in the industry?
I started my career from television commercials, and after seeing me there, I was called by Iftakar Chowdhury bhai, who was looking for a versatile actress who could fight, dance, and act sweet all at the same time.

This led to the opportunity for my first screen test and I was called back and selected for my first movie, "Khoj: The Search" which turned out to be the first hit digital film, although I accepted to do the work without my parents' consent.

I gained recognition and had many offers from there on, so I am blessed to have gained such recognition from my very first film. Although I took a one year break after that owing to family issues, I returned with "Dehorokkhi" and was applauded for that as well.

So you are reinventing yourself as a producer now. What new ventures are coming up and what will be unique for your productions?
It is amazing that I have come such a long way so fast and for that I am grateful. However, it is a shame that the halls in our country are suffering. Good places like Cineplex should be more common and the existing ones should be made better to make films more popular again.

I will be starting with "Prem Leela" soon. The script is in the works as we speak, which will be directed by Shamim Akhter Rony. And as for what is new, innovating in films is quite difficult as all stories revolve around similar plots with varied presentations. My productions will be for everyone, as I believe films should not be segmented among audience groups.

Are you dependent on any actor or actors for your performances?
I think I can confidently say that in my case, and in the case of Mahiya Mahi, we do not depend on any actors. The audience can testify to it as I have worked with various actors over my career and I was able to connect to and offer my best performance opposite all of them.

I always have fun with all my co-actors and all of them were equally amazing in all the works that I did. There are no personal favourites or preferences, although the audiences may differ based on their judgements and opinions.

What do you mainly focus on when accepting new work?
Firstly the script as I do not want to be in a production where the audience will get bored. Secondly I look at the maker as the presentation of the artist depends on them and it is very important to me. Lastly, I look at the production house and see if I am comfortable with the style of work they do.

You have ventured into production, do you have plans to direct?
I really don't know at this point as it is very difficult to direct among so much pressure and limitations in the local industry. As the audience have accepted me so far as an actress, they will hopefully do the same as a producer. Only time will tell if I can expand as a director as well.

What films do you watch and how do you spend your leisure time?
I am a bit weird when it comes to films as I watch literally any movie, from any genre, in any language. From Iranian to Tamil films, I watch any and all films. As for leisure, I mostly spend time with my family, practice dancing, and listen to music mostly as I feel I cannot live without it. I also like tending to a small garden I have in my rooftop.

What do you think of love?
I really don't know what love is. I know what caring, being responsible and adoration are, but I never really got the concept of love as I have not come across it yet.

Any words for your fans?
I come from a very conservative family who are still not fully supportive of my career. My fans are my main source of inspiration and the reason I carry on to this day. I hope through them, my parents would truly understand my ambitions and be happy for what I am doing.


Interviewed by Zahid Akbar & Narrated by Mohaiminul Islam