It has been a busy few years for popular television actor and National Film Award winner Mahfuz Ahmed who has turned director as well. Mahfuz spoke to The Daily Star about two of his TV plays currently being aired on TV:

Can you tell us about your TV serial being aired on ATN Bangla?

Mahfuz: I directed the acclaimed series “Tomar Doai Bhalo Achhi”. Its sequel, “Mago Tomar Jonno”, is being aired now.

More on “Mago Tomar Jonno”?

Mahfuz: I grew up in Noakhali where I saw people with an obsession for foreign lands. They would even sell their mother's gold ornaments or family land to go abroad. But did their dream come true? Were the remittances they sent home utilised properly?  These issues echoed in my mind for a long time. So, I directed “Mago Tomar Jonno” for Bangladeshi expatriate workers.

Where was the play shot?

Mahfuz: Qatar. We spent 21 days at the border points of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman for shooting. It was shot in Qatar city, the rest house of the Sheikh and desert areas. I tried to show the lifestyle of our country's workers and their sufferings in the play.

Did you act in the drama?

Mahfuz: No it would have been taxing for me to act and direct simultaneously.  I just tried to give my entire attention to directing the drama.

Another series directed by you is being telecast on Channel i Tell us about it.

Mahfuz: It is called “Amader Chhoto Nodi Chole Ba(n)ke Ba(n)ke”. Its plot is totally different and is a narrative of culture and lives of  rural people.

What about “Choita Pagol”?

Mahfuz: It was one of my best directorial projects. The important thing was that the audiences received the play warmly. It was shot in Munshiganj and I played the title role.  

Acting or direction--which attracts you most?

Mahfuz: I love acting, and I'm known to people due to my profession. I have been able to win everyone's heart through this. So, first I am an actor and then a director. I started my career as a director with the aim of doing some quality works.

Any upcoming movies?

Mahfuz:  “Zero Degree”, directed by Animesh Aich. After a long hiatus, I started performing on celluloid. Jaya Ahsan and Ruhi were my co-stars in the movie,  that is being produced along with some friends.