Photo: Star

An unmatched stalwart to have ever graced the Bangladeshi film industry, Razzak was indeed a hero. He reigned supreme during the black and white era of cinema, and starred in various genres of films. Apart from mesmerising the viewers with his brilliant acting, he was also a renowned producer and filmmaker. Five-time National Film Award winner, Razzak also received multiple accolades for his immense contributions to the film industry. As today marks the legend’s second death anniversary, here is what some of his close associates wish to share.

Samrat: Not a day goes by that I do not miss my father. His absence left a void that can never be filled. It is heartwrenching when I wake up and cannot call out to my father any more. Our home is incomplete without him. All his belongings are there, but he is not. I always remember him in my prayers, especially today.

Babita: It is impossible to forget an actor like Razzak. We truly miss  his absence. Zahir Raihan introduced both of us to the film industry. When I first saw him at our home in Gandaria, I ran and hid in the fridge, and later was taken out. I first acted alongside him as a young actor in Shongshar, where I played his daughter. Later on, I starred as the female lead opposite him in the film, Shesh Porjonto. That film was a hit and the audience admired us as a pair. Ever since then, we starred in many films together. Razzak was like family to me. I still remember how I escaped to his home on my wedding night, out of tension. Only my closest companions knew about it. Later Razzak asked his spouse Lokkhi to take me back, and she did. I watch the films we did together when I miss him, and try to reminisce the good times we had.

Shakib Khan: Nayak Raj Razzak was one of a kind, hence his absence is felt immensely. He was there throughout the good and bad times of our film industry. He devoted his life to films. I want to share something today that not many are aware of. Whenever something delicious and hearty was cooked at Razzak’s house, they would invite me over. His wife is like a mother to me. I feel truly blessed that they treated me like their own child. Nayak Raj Razzak holds a special place in my heart.

Rozina: It is indeed sad that Razzak is no longer amongst us. When I started my acting career, he was already a superstar by then. I was extremely nervous to act alongside him. He sensed the matter and comforted me. This act of kindness and understanding is certainly praiseworthy. After that, we have acted in many films together. I would like to say that he was a teacher in the truest sense. He showed the way to many newcomers, as well as various artistes of his time. Rarely have I seen such a dedicated individual in our film industry. I have utmost respect for Razzak and I miss him dearly.