No image of life is more authentic than the practical state of affairs. There are dreamers, there are escapists. Bonna Mirza seems to defy both these archetypes. She dwells in hard core reality. Not of probabilities, Bonna talks about possibilities and aims at seeing life through the bona fides and not by imagining alternatives. This resolved and renowned actress talks about her life on stage, on screen and in real life.
The Daily Star (TDS): Having been involved in acting for around 18 years, do you find any similarities in acting for TV plays and the stage?
Bonna: Not really. Both are entirely separate. When I am acting in both of them-there are two different moments.
In TV plays, there are chances for correction -- a shot is taken repeatedly until it is satisfactory. But in theatre, there is no second chance. Also the style, the language, the pattern are so different. The only possible similarity is that we have to act. However, both are two different worlds.
I can watch myself on TV, although I admit I don't do it that often. In theatre one doesn't get that chance.
Both roles are quite tough, but I find enjoyment in them.
TDS: How do you find time for both theatre and TV plays?
Bonna: Theatre is done on a monthly basis like a show per month. It's tough to get out time. And drama's shootings are there almost every day.
TDS: So do you get any free time?
Bonna: After all that it is difficult, but yes, I do. In my free time, I do nothing special, what everyone does: Listen to music, browse the net, etc.
TDS: What are you busy with currently?
Bonna: The TV plays running at the moment are “Batasher Ghor” on ATN “Bangla”; “Maa Tui Kemon Achhish” on ATN Banga; “Shopno Bazar” on Channel I, “Megh Bondhu” on Banglavision; “Shimanto” on Desh TV, and “Bhabi” on Ekushey TV. The shooting of “Shobuj Gram Neel Dish Antennae” is still on. In this play my character's name is Joynab. The story is about a rural girl who is forced into marriage.
TDS: What inspires you?
Bonna: Nothing specific. I guess one has to find that inspiration from within oneself.
TDS: Do you think TV plays and theatre should always be for social change or can it be for pure entertainment?
Bonna: Not necessarily. I don't think there should always be a need for social commitment, because it is really hard to create an artiste from that spot.
Art has a life of its own and we cannot manipulate it with forced convictions or commitments. In any case, the final creation should not be affected because it is confined in a commitment.
TDS: How do you think the scene in TV plays has changed over the years?
Bonna: Everything has changed-society's attitude, outlook. So it is only obvious that the prospect of drama has changed. But it is nothing sudden. A subtle, gradual change has taken place in this sector. Like, before women were portrayed quite differently. Now the women portrayed are much more independent. They are making their own choices. A kind of social acceptance to this has developed as well.
TDS: Is there anything that you are scared of?
Bonna: Nothing. I would say that I am brave; nothing scares or unnerves me.
TDS: A memorable day?
Bonna: Life is full of so many moments, so many memories. Anything appeals to one's emotion and curiosity. We just have to enjoy life as it is, at its fullest.
TDS: Any word that best describes you?
Bonna: Respect. I respect all because I understand its importance. If I have to earn respect then I need to give it as well.