May The Daily Star live a hundred years: Jaya Ahsan

As The Daily Star marks its 35th anniversary today (January 14), actress Jaya Ahsan has praised the paper not only for its longevity, but for its steady role in nurturing Bangladesh’s cultural life.

“I have always preferred The Daily Star as an English newspaper,” she said. “I am a regular reader, and the paper has earned the affection of many more readers.”

For Jaya, the milestone is not just about numbers. It is about trust, continuity, and purpose. “Thirty-five years is no small milestone,” she said. “And to have maintained popularity with readers makes it more meaningful. My love goes to the editor and everyone associated with the paper. Not just 35 years — may it complete a hundred.”

Image

She also referred to the recent attack on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, and the way both newspapers responded. “After such a major incident, The Daily Star resumed publication with renewed energy just one day later,” she said. “That shows how much dedication, honesty, and courage they bring to their work.”

To her, that resilience is deeply tied to the paper’s cultural responsibility. “This newspaper has come this far with integrity and reputation,” she said. “May that reputation continue. For authentic news in English, I look for The Daily Star. Winning such deep trust from readers is not an easy achievement.”

Image

As an artist, Jaya spoke at length about the paper’s role in supporting the arts. “The Daily Star has done a lot for artistes,” she said. “It has worked for literary arts and visual artists too. For this, I offer my thanks and best wishes. I hope it will always stand by artists.”

She pointed out that the newspaper has consistently given space to drama, cinema, music, literature, and visual art—often when these voices struggle to find platforms elsewhere. “Work more on art and culture,” she urged. “Do more for artists, in drama, film, music, and OTT — across all mediums. Let The Daily Star play an even bigger role in the literary and artistic world.”

Image

Jaya also welcomed the paper’s newer initiatives. “The Daily Star is organising a major event around OTT platforms,” she said. “For those working in OTT, it’s a good initiative. I hope this continues for a long time.”

Looking back, she recalled one of the paper’s earlier cultural ventures. “The Daily Star once hosted a large event called ‘Celebrating Life,’” she said. “That can be started again.”

She ended with a simple wish, rooted in both affection and expectation. “I hope it earns even more love from readers,” she said. “Not just 35 years — may it last a hundred.”