"Jongli", a breakout film this year, isn't just riding high tides at the box office—it's leaving audiences visibly shaken. Actress Prarthana Fardin Dighi, who plays the emotionally complex character Nupur, shared how the film moved viewers to tears and sparked heartfelt conversations long after the credits rolled.

Released during Eid ul-Fitr, the M Raahim directorial "Jongli" featured Dighi with celebrated actors Siam Ahmed and Shobnom Bubly. The film—still drawing crowds weeks after release—is also poised to debut internationally later this month.

"It's been years since we've had so many well-received simultaneous Eid releases," Dighi told The Daily Star in an exclusive interview. "Most of the films are doing well, and that's something to celebrate as an actor and fan of cinema."

Among the season's successes, she pointed to "Chokkor 302", a thriller that's kept audiences on edge, "Borbaad", which has made its undeniable mark, and "Daagi", which she hasn't yet seen but notes has drawn crowds. However, the actress believes "Jongli" stands out for its character-driven narrative. "People are watching it. They're talking about it and they're moved."

Dighi has seen "Jongli" multiple times at the theatres—first with the cast and crew, then with her family, and again during visits to various halls. "Every time I saw it, I felt like I was experiencing it for the first time," she said.

And each visit brought emotional encounters. "I witnessed tears in the eyes of the audience whenever I visited to gauge their reactions. Some even held me, expressing how deeply they were moved by Nupur's journey."

During a screening at Lion Cinema Hall, she recalled being approached by audience members who told her, "Nupur didn't do the right thing." That comment, she stated, stayed with her, not as criticism, but as proof that the film's emotional weight had struck home.

"Cinema rarely evokes that kind of visceral reaction anymore, but "Jongli" did," Dighi observed. "People I've never met have shown such empathy and connection to the story—it's overwhelming."

On-screen chemistry aside, Dighi reserved high praise for her co-star Siam, calling him "an exceptional actor" who shows up for his team both in front of and behind the camera.

"Siam is an exceptional actor. His commitment to his craft is evident in every scene. He ensures everyone on set is comfortable, often checking if anyone has missed a meal."

She added, "Even during my scenes, I'd find him nearby, supporting nonchalantly. That kind of attention and care comes from real passion for cinema."

Upon being inquired about what is next for her, Dighi remained tight-lipped but confirmed that she is discussing new projects. "Once everything is confirmed, I'll be excited to share the news."

In a season crowded with strong box office contenders, "Jongli" has managed to carve out a space not just in theatres, but in the hearts of its viewers. With authentic performances and a grounded narrative, the film affirms the power of Bangladeshi cinema to resonate far beyond the screen.

Read more

Syed Ahmed Shawki makes OTT return with ‘Gulmohar’