SHAJAL

Tell us something about yourself.

If I had to say something about myself, I’d say that I’m a very simple person.

What inspired you to start acting?

It was never really planned. I’m someone who doesn’t plan things in life beforehand. I pick up the things that come my way, and try to make the best of them. However, if we’re talking about acting, Afzal Hossain was the one who encouraged and trained me.

How did your career begin?

I started my career in 2000. I was studying BBA at Jahangirnagar University at that time, and I got to audition as a host for a musical programme, Virgin Takdum Takdum on ETV. It made me realise that I could establish myself in the media. I did several TVCs as well.

Did you have to face any challenge in your career?

We face challenges on every step of our lives. Say, when we’re born, we don’t know how to walk or talk. We have to learn those with time; we have to evolve. The same can be said about a career in media. I faced challenges and learnt to overcome them. That’s how life is.

Did you have any mentor?

I had many. There are a lot of people who have contributed to my career, and I consider all of them as my mentors. Like I previously said, Afzal Hossain brought me to media and guided me. He is one of my mentors. He helps me to this day. Humayun Faridi also did the same for me. The actors whom I worked with in the beginning of my acting career are also my mentors.

What qualities does an aspiring actor require?

I don’t think I’m that qualified to answer this question; I might not be able guide anybody. A lot of things are required to be an actor; in fact, a lot is required to work in any field. Patience and an ultimate goal are very important.

What is the life of an actor like?

I can’t speak for others, but my life is quite simple, and I like it that way.

Do you have any upcoming project?

I’m working regularly, so a lot of projects can be expected in the future. I’m currently working on a film, Jinn. Although I can’t reveal anything about it, the film is very different. I don’t like to work on mainstream projects.

What is your favourite work-related memory?

I have a lot. If I had to pick one, it would be when I was shooting a scene for a project with Afzal Hossain. It was an eight minute long scene, and we had to do it in one take. It was a very complicated scene, but we managed to do it anyhow, although it took around five hours.

Any message for the readers?

Thank you for loving and supporting me. I request you all to be patient, be yourself and never give up in any situation. Allah is always with you.