This Eid, Xefer Rahman surprised fans not just with new music, but also with her return to acting. After her debut in Mostofa Sarwar Farooki's "Monogamy", she appeared in the highly anticipated web-series "Myself Allen Swapan 2", directed by Shihab Shaheen. She not only shared the screen with Nasir Uddin Khan but also lent her voice to the series with the track "Boyam Pakhi 2.0". Simultaneously, her song "Niye Jabe Ki" from the Eid film "Daagi" was added to the festive lineup.

How did you find yourself joining the cast of 'Myself Allen Swapan 2'?

It all started when Shihab bhai and I had a meeting for the song in "Daagi". During our conversation, he mentioned that he was considering me for a role in his upcoming web-series. At that point, I didn't know which role I would play or what the project was about. Once I learned more, it was hard to say no. Shihab Shaheen is known for his skilled craft, and "Myself Allen Swapan" already has a massive fan base. I also wanted to take on roles that would help shape my acting career, which is one of the main reasons I joined the team.

How was your experience sharing the screen with Nasir Uddin Khan?

I had previously worked with Nasir bhai on "No Dorai", where I was the executive producer. Back then, he wasn't as popular as he is now, and OTTs weren't popular in Bangladesh. He has this rare quality—wherever he goes, he stands out. This time around, working with him as a co-actor was inspiring, and I was particularly moved when he said that we would both "give it our all, together" during our scenes.

Tell us about your song 'Niye Jabe Ki' from 'Daagi'.

Many people think I'm only a vocalist—mostly because I'm a woman—and they often overlook the fact that I compose as well. It is something that triggers me. In most cases, whenever you hear me sing a song, it's likely one I've composed myself.

When I spoke to Shihab bhai, I told him the same thing and added that I'd like him to use a song I composed. What touched me most was that during the shoot, the cast and crew would listen to the demo of my composition. Later, I co-wrote the lyrics with Badhon based on the plot of the film and completed the track.

Though people know me better for "Jhumka", I want to make more melodious songs as this genre has been close to my heart since childhood. "Niye Jabe Ki" was released with the film's theatrical debut, and now that it's out on all platforms, people have been searching for it. That is incredibly fulfilling for me.

You not only voiced but appeared in the song 'Boyam Pakhi 2.0'. What was the experience like?

The previous version was already popular, but it had only the male perspective. Now, with my voice added, it includes a female perspective, which I think adds depth and relatability—especially for female listeners. That's what makes it beautiful. Also, I believe my voice and appearance added extra strength to it!

You started your career with English songs and became popular for your covers. Any plans to return to English releases?

Absolutely. My journey began with English songs, and I also compose in English. Last year, I released "Spicy", which was in English, though, ironically, the Bengali part—"Sona Bondhu Tui Amare"—went viral! (laughs)

This year, most of my song releases will be in Bangla, but I plan to keep nurturing my English catalogue as well. I'm also thinking of converting some of the Bengali songs that the audience loves, into English versions.

This Eid-ul-Fitr saw several film songs become popular. Aside from your own, which ones stood out to you?

Definitely "Chand Mama" by Pritom Hasan from the film "Borbaad". I also really like "Ektukhaani Mon" by Tahsan Khan and Masha from "Daagi". I'm happy that all five films released during Eid had a good response. If we keep up this momentum, our industry will continue to grow—and that includes the music scene as well.

Since your acting debut, your appearance has changed dramatically. Do you miss your previous look?

Honestly, no. I carried that look for a long time. I can always go back to it if I want, but right now, I'm enjoying the change. Since I'm acting alongside making music, I don't want to be tied to one look. 

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‘Borbaad’ leads, ‘Daagi’ leaves a mark