THROUGH THE EYES OF SHIMUL YOUSUF
The legendary television and theatre personality of Bangladesh, Shimul Yousuf was born in 24th March, 1957. She is involved in acting, singing, directing and so much more. She completed her Honors degree in Social Science. She was admitted to the “Institute of Fine Arts” and went to “Baroda School of Fine Arts” for schooling. In 1972, she first appeared in theatre and in 1974, she incorporated herself in “Dhaka Theatre” after her siblings asked to be a proxy for another actress. She is mostly known for the drama “Binodini” at theatre. She received a huge number of prestigious awards including “Diboshri Podok”, “Lokonatto Podok”, “Aronno Dipu Podok”, “Rishi Podok”, “Rudra Podok”, “Md. Shahidullah Award”, “Jahangir Award” and “Prothom Alo Jorip Award”.
INSPIRATION
I am blessed with an indisputably favorable cultural atmosphere. The warmth I am gifted by my family was full of enthusiasm. There was a practice of singing in my family. Though I lost my father at the age of four, I still can remember his celestial voice. My mother also used to sing beautifully and she is the one who discovered my concealed thirst for music. "Khelaghor Ashor"and "Kochikachar Mela" were also remarkably motivational factors in my life. Selim Al Deen and Syed Altaf Mahmud have always been my biggest inspiration. Begum Sufia Kamal, Kamrul Hasan, Mostafa Monowar and my mentors at workplace are my inspirations too. My husband was extremely supportive in case of flourishing my potentials. Hence, my family as well as my surroundings became my inspiration.
PHILOSOPHY
My philosophy is living simply and working with the highest possible dedication. I have limited needs which helps me restrain myself from living lavishly. In my point of view, every ethical work deserves respect. Therefore, I never underestimate or demotivate anyone toward their duties. I am very concerned about commitment and punctuality. These factors can make a person to be respectful to others and shape his or her personality as well.
VIEWS ON HER PROFESSION
Theatre, to me, is more like a passion than a profession. Being a theatre artist is a long-term process, a gradual adoption, a lifestyle as well. Each and every art has its own strength, and the beauty of its depth is immeasurable. Singing, dancing, acting, reciting, all these are the different forms articulating expressions. Newcomers need to be groomed in the best manner. There is no alternative to reading literature and practicing physical exercise if someone wants to get involved in theatre. Listening various music, reading poems and novels help a person widen his knowledge. It helps him understand the depth of each individual's characters. I am very hopeful to the new generation as they are blessed with a cordial cooperation of their seniors.
MUSIC
My thirst for music has always been ceaseless. Whenever I get time, I listen to different types of songs. I love Rabindra Sangeet the most. Accordingly, "Dirgho Jibono Potho" is one of my favorites.
FILMS
I do not watch a lot of movies. I like to watch the Bengali movies of Satyajit Ray. Among them, "Gupi Gain Bagha Bain" and "Hirak Rajar Deshe" are some of my favorite movies.
BOOKS
I have a huge collection of books. In case of literature, our Nobel Laureate Rabindranath is on the top, along with the great poet Jibanananda Das. I also read novels, short stories and poems of other authors like Selim Al Deen, Syed Shamsul Haque and Sohel Hasan Gazi. I also read the books of some newcomers.
FUTURE PLAN
Theatre has always been my best companion. I always remain busy in theatrical activities. Currently, I am involved in a drama named "Binodini". I would like to mention that one hundred and twenty three shows of it have already been staged. Our next plan is to stage two dramas of Selim Al Deen named "Putro" and "Ei Je Ami".
IDOLS
Of course, my parents are my idols. There is no need to mention that my husband, Nasiruddin Yousuf is on the top. Selim Al Deen and Altaf Mahmud are also my idols. Their philosophies have left deep impressions on me. Many of my seniors, my mentors, and instructors have become my idols as well.
By Shawreen Rahman