Several Bangladeshi films slated for release this Eid-ul-Fitr were initially planned to be shot in India. Producers and directors had made preparatory visits to locations in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai, and discussions with artistes and crew members were already underway. However, prolonged delays in obtaining permits, visa complications, and growing unease in recent times regarding cross-border collaboration between Bangladeshi and Indian artistes and technicians have now forced a rethink. As a result, Sri Lanka is emerging as the new shooting destination for Bangladeshi cinema, replacing India.

This year, an estimated 50 Bangladeshi films have been released. Among these, only a handful have achieved commercial success. Then again, despite not performing well at the box office, other cinematic aspects like actors, actresses, and film songs have managed to remain at the centre of discussions throughout the year.

Star Cineplex, a leading choice for cinema enthusiasts with refined tastes, has maintained its position as a crowd favourite. While Hollywood films dominated the scene a few years ago, the rising wave of Bangladeshi cinema has gradually shifted the spotlight.

Celebrated actress Mehazabien Chowdhury has embarked on her cinematic journey with her debut film, “Saba”. Currently, she is in South Korea, attending the prestigious Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) to showcase the project.

The Haryana International Film Festival 2024 kicked off in the Indian state of Haryana, showcasing cinematic talent from around the world. Notably, two films from the country were featured in the lineup, and both were honoured with awards.

The allure of movies hasn't waned even during the final phase of the OTT era. In fact, the audience’s interest in the big screen seems to be growing steadily. A glance at neighboring India reveals a significant trend: where the box office used to earn Rs 100 crores, it's now reaching a thousand crores.

The Dhaka International Film Festival can be named as one of the biggest film festivals in our country. It has been going on for over two decades and the 22nd edition is set to kick off on January 20 and will run until January 28.

With great reverence we remember Khan Ataur Rahman, famously known as Khan Ata, a film director, actor, producer, screenplay writer, music composer, singer and an important name in the history of Bangladeshi films, who was born on this very day in the year of 1928 in Ramkantapur village of Manikganj district.