Tanvin Sweety

Model-turned-actor Tanvin Sweety has been in the spotlight for almost thirty years. She has taken part in multiple stage plays, TV dramas and even films. She has come very far since her debut TV drama, ‘Godhuli Logone’. In today’s exclusive interview, she opens up about her work and special memories related to it.

Tell us something about yourself.

Well, I’m an actor by profession, as everyone knows.

Can you describe your journey into acting?

One can never tell where the future takes them. I started out modelling, then I completed a one-year course in theatre school. After that, I started doing stage plays, which progressed into TV dramas.

Who was your inspiration in pursuing this career?

I came into the industry at quite a young age. I would watch TVCs and want to act in them. I also used to watch the dramas of Ferdousi Majumdar and Suborna Mustafa, among others when I joined Theatre Group. Their acting really inspired me. Aside from that, my family had always been very supportive and encouraging.

Have you always wanted to be an actor?

No, it just happened. My father wanted me to study law, but as I kept working in this industry, I slowly started to realise that I wanted to follow this career path. My drive to be a good actor came from the projects I undertook, and I still want to keep making myself better.

What is your favourite work-related memory?

I have so many good memories; it’s near impossible to choose. Going out with my colleagues and travelling the whole country with them are quite fond memories. A long time ago, my colleagues and I were standing in front of Mostafa market in Singapore, and I saw a Bangladeshi man wearing a lungi. I don’t know what came over me, but I shouted, “Bengali bhai!” He noticed us and almost sprinted in excitement. The feeling of seeing Bangladeshis in foreign countries is indescribable. Another memorable event would be the shooting in Rangamati after my wedding. It was the afternoon and I was on a small ship. There was a terrible storm outside, along with a power outage. I was terrified. So much so that I thought this would be my last day here. I remember asking someone to tell my husband that I love him if anything happens to me.

What is the life of an actor like?

An actor’s life is very similar to a regular person’s life. Acting is our job, but outside that we have to do normal things: cleaning the house, cooking food, taking care of the family. People know celebrities, so they may be photographed when outside or asked for autographs. Those are the only differences.

What qualities do an aspiring actor require?

I think aspiring actors need to have proper pronunciation, punctuality, patience, intelligence and respect for seniors. I credit theatre for where I am today. I think dedication and respect to one’s work is extremely important. I’m asked often how will artists be created in this day and age. Along with what I have said before, I think love for their work is also essential.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I can’t tell now what will happen, but I want to work as long as I live. I want to be beside our people and help them. When someone becomes a celebrity, they have lots of responsibilities for the society. I don’t want to be contained within the dimensions of just acting. I want to do something for the society and the artists. I want to be a good person.

Do you have any upcoming project the readers should look forward to?

I’m doing two series now: Kaler Jatra by Akram Khan and Bhalobashar Onek Rong by Shazzad Hossain Dodul.

Any special message for the readers?

We are going through a rough period, so we must take care of the children. They are our future. Be friendly towards them, but that doesn’t mean you’ll let them go completely. Give as much time as you can to them.

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Amina Hossain