The beginnings

I am from Faridpur. I was a member of Baishakhi Natya Ghosthi in Faridpur. In 1983, I came to Dhaka and joined Aranyak Natyadal. My first drama on television was in 1989. The play was Mrittu Khudha of Kazi Nazrul Islam.

As for my stage performances, I have been acting in every production of Aranyak since 1983. However, I did not act in some of the first shows of Shankranti.

On popularity

I am losing my real name behind the name of the protagonist, Jainal of the drama serial Ekannoborti. I always try to give memorable performances.

Identification with drama characters
I am very simple in real life. I still travel in buses and rickshaws now and then. Many people are surprised to learn that I do not have a car. When I walk with an umbrella, a curious pedestrian is likely to question if I am the same guy they saw on TV. I enjoy this form of recognition.

I have come very close to people through my acting. Besides, working with Aranyak has given me the opportunity to meet the original hard-working people of our country. I have had a closer look at their life-style. Possibly this is the reason that I have been able to portray them effectively through my characters.

Quality of package drama
There has certainly been a decline in quality. Nowadays, a number of people who are working in this medium have no idea about the art form.

Role as singer
I was interested in singing since I was a child. However, I did not practise singing seriously. When I joined Aranyak, I realised that for acting one has to know singing also. So I have learnt its basics.

Films

I have acted in a film Shankhonaad of Abu Sayeed. I was supposed to act in Tawkir Ahmed's Joy Jatra, but I could not do it because I had to go abroad for a stage show of Aranyak.

Awards
I have not received many awards. However, I have got the love and appreciation of my audience. Isn't that the greatest gift for an artiste?

Other work
I work in a bank. My colleagues help me out and, therefore, I can continue with my acting career.

Children and their interests
I have two daughters. Whether they work in the same media is completely their own choice. If they are interested, I will not stop them.

Interest in direction
I would first like to establish myself as an actor.

Future plans
I want to carry on as a good actor in future.