Spreading messages through entertainment

BBC Media Action (BBCMA) has worked on issues of concern in the country for some time now. Be it governance (through BBC Shonglap) or education (BBC Janala), they continue to reach out to the masses in an effective, organised manner. Recently, the organisation has focused on health awareness under the banner of BBC Agomon.
BBCMA has made a drama serial, titled “Ujan Ganger Naiya”, which will disseminate a message about the adverse fall out of early marriage and pregnancy as well as information about childbirth and maternal and neo-natal care. Funded by the UK's Department for International Development, the series is directed by Gias Uddin Selim and Bashar Georgis and boasts a heavyweight cast. The 16-episode first series will air on Bangladesh Television at 8:30pm on Sundays (with a repeat telecast on 8:35am on Thursdays).
The premiere of the TV play was held at the Star Cineplex of Bashundhara City on May 10, in the presence of the cast, crew, and representatives of the partner organisations. Speaking at the event, country director of BBCMA and executive producer of the show, Charlotte Imbert said their idea was to share important information in an interesting and compelling way, to reach out to the audience, particularly in suburbs and rural areas.
The first two episodes, screened at the premiere, were reflective of the efforts put into the project. A rural setting is Gias Uddin Selim's ideal platform for storytelling, and his free-flowing, effortless storytelling promises to grip the audience. Veterans like Mamunur Rashid, Wahida Mollick Jolly and Fazlur Rahman Babu are seamless in their characterisations, as is Chanchal Mahmud. Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed and Orchita Sporshia play two central characters in the play, and both have portrayed village girl roles convincingly. Even the supporting cast has some very talented actors such as Deepa Khandaker, Shahed Ali, Shamol Mawla and Momena Chowdhury.