Sultry Steps to Stardom
She is one of the few people who have made their struggles worthwhile; movies, dancing, and modelling are only some of her success stories. Even though films were not her initial priority to begin with, she always had the desire to be known as a celebrity by means of acting. She has always managed her career with finesse, and now she has made a name for herself beyond the borders. Her first cross-border film “Shororipu” was released in Kolkata recently, for which she received raving appreciation and accolades from critics and fans in India. She was casted as the lead female role in the film, in which she performed admirably. Star Showbiz is delighted to present an exclusive tête-à-tête with the gorgeous, Sohana Saba.
What were your inspirations for pursuing acting as a career? How did it all start?
My mother used to dance, sing and act before she gave birth to me and my brother. As a result, she could not further pursue a career in culture, and so she had a plan on fulfilling her dreams through me. I was therefore enrolled in dancing classes. Since then, I continued with dance lessons, but in my heart I wanted to become a celebrity and so my focus was to become an actress. With that notion in mind, I started out at an early age.
What mediums did you work in from the beginning of your career?
Since I started dancing at an early stage, I performed in countless occasions in front of the camera, which is why I developed a friendly relationship with it and never really got nervous. Other than dancing, I have also done ramp-walking, choreographed dances, participated in photo shoots for magazines, and done modelling on many occasions.
How did you get the opportunity to start acting?
After having seen the photos I had done for a magazine, Giasuddin Selim casted me for his drama "Biprotip", where I played the role of a schoolgirl from Khulna. The first shot was taken in a train. Back at that time, it was difficult for newcomers to get parts for films or dramas, and to further add to the turmoil, I used to be very fussy. I have come a long way since then as it hardly matters now whether I am playing the lead or the supporting role in a movie; what matters is how I portray my part.
Share with us about some of your experiences during the shoot of "Shororipu".
The movie was released this year but it was originally shot in 2015. Most of the shots were done in hotels and there have been some sequences in the streets. I was surprised to see how friendly every member in the film was; from actors to crew members, everyone was so warm and hospitable that it felt like home. I consider myself very lucky as I receive all the love and warmth in the world from the film fraternity. Now when I go to Kolkata I attend parties with my new family in Kolkata. It feels great to be around them.
You have worked in both Bangladeshi and Indian film industry. How are they different in your opinion?
There is only one major difference- Actors in India are absolutely professional and we are completely opposite to that. Over there, everyone stays concerned regarding performing their parts to the best of their talents whereas in Bangladesh, the actors and crew members are always looking for loopholes to avoid work. I find it very distressing.
Would you like to express anything regarding your personal life? What do you plan on doing in the future?
I rushed my decision to get married at only 18 years of age. That is when I just started out in my career. I tried my best to keep my marriage together and well, but it was not worth it. It has been 10 months since I split from my husband and I have been doing well so far. What I really appreciate about the marriage is that it gave me my precious son. My parents have shown immense support to me towards my decision and so there is no reason for me to be sad about anything. At the moment, I am neither planning out extensively to stay single nor looking for a partner. I will go with the flow. Currently I am involved with a lot of things. I have been receiving offers for acting in Kolkata and right now I am also acting in a show for Deepto Television. I am extremely hopeful for the future.
Interviewed by Rahnuma Shormi & narrated by Syed Ahnaf Sadeed