Showbiz community unites to support ailing artistes

Members of Bangladesh’s film and television are coming together to support the ailing artistes through fundraising initiatives and collective action.

Families of several sick industry professionals have recently sought financial assistance for treatment.

Scriptwriter, director and producer Matia Banu Shuku is battling cancer, and her family has requested government support.

Dance director Zakir Hossain, who is also suffering from cancer, has made a similar appeal.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Shahnewaz Kakoli has been unwell for a long time, and his family is struggling to cover medical expenses.

In response, organisations representing film and television professionals have announced plans to raise funds for medical support. These include concerts, film screenings and art
exhibitions.

The initiative is being led by bodies such as the Bangladesh Film Directors’ Association and the Directors’ Guild, along with other industry groups.

On Thursday at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), producer Khourshed Alam Khosru handed over Tk100,000 to filmmaker Nurul Alam Atique, husband of Matia Banu Shuku, to support her treatment.

The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Directors’ Guild president Shahiduzzaman Selim, filmmaker Kazi Hayat, and actress Rozina. They expressed a shared commitment to stand beside sick artistes.

Director Shahin Sumon, President of Film Directors’ Association, was also present on the occasion.

Masuma Rahman Tani, Managing Director of BFDC, praised the initiative and assured cooperation.

Others present at the meeting included film actors Helal Khan, Shiba Shanu, Rumana Islam Mukti, and Directors’ Association General Secretary Shahin Kabir Tutul.