There are few artistes in this country who have been able to achieve success in multiple domains of art. Bipasha Hayat is one of them. Her acting career spans television, theatre and film, screenwriting, and the artiste is also an accomplished painter whose works have been exhibited worldwide. Today marks the artiste's birthday and in a recent conversation, Hayat opens up to The Daily Star about what this special day means to her, and more.

“I never have big plans on this day other than spending as much time as I can with my family. However, this year will be quite special – I will be spending the day at home, before flying to Bangkok with my mother and I look forward to the bonding experiences we will share.

“Despite the irregularity of acting projects these days, I am quite busy with my own family, and my paintings. It fills me with happiness that I was able to chalk out some time for my mother to go on this trip.

“I am also looking forward an exhibition there. The Bangladesh Embassy in Bangkok is arranging a group art exhibition on March 26, which I hope to attend with my mother.

“Every day is special to me, and I don't believe in singling out my birthdays. Life is a beautiful gift, despite the many obstacles that you may come across. My art expresses how I feel about life. Another thing that gives me much happiness is when my work fills others with joy. All my gratitude is towards my Maker, who has made all this possible.”

“Many people wish me on this day. My family comes first, and this time Tauquir asked me, 'Is there something you want?' I told him his smile and happiness is all I could ever want. He kept pressing on, and in the end I said I'd like a canvas, and some paint.

“All my marital bliss is because of Tauquir, and without his support I would not have been able to achieve all my successes. Girls in Bangladesh don't have much independence when it comes to working outside, and Tauquir has made sure nothing stood in my way. He showers me with gifts not only on my birthdays, but what I love most is his smile and his companionship, with whom I can talk about all matters under the sun. Life is grim and hopeless without having such a companion by your side.

“My family continues to give all they can to this day, even though I have a family of my own. I feel they are perfect examples all parents should strive to be.”