Chaka, Agami by Morshedul Islam celebrated

Acclaimed filmmaker Morshedul Islam directed Agami (1984) and Chaka (1993) are landmark works of Bangla cinema that has earned him great honour at home and abroad.

The silver jubilee of Chaka and 35th anniversary of Agami were celebrated at a programme held at National Art Gallery Auditorium of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Saturday.

The programme, jointly organised by Chalachitram Film Society and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, featured a get-together where a discussion and a book launch took place.

Chaka is based on Selim Al Deen’s book by the same name. The film gives a glimpse into the rustic life through the perspective of an ox cart driver and his companion, while Agami is a short film based on the 1971 Liberation War.

Filmmakers Morshedul Islam, Syed Salauddin Jaki, Children’s Film Society Bangladesh general secretary Munira Morshed Munni, cinematographer Maksudul Bari and others were present at the programme.

‘I was greatly inspired by Alamgir Kabir during my journey. He gave me the courage to pursue filmmaking as a career. He also encouraged noted filmmakers Tanvir Mokammel and Tareque Masud. Manzare Hasin Murad helped me a lot while I was making Agami. He always gave us a ride on his motorbike and helped us collect instruments for filmmaking. Syed Saluddin Jaki taught us screenplay writing. He also corrected the screenplay of Agami and gave me the much needed tips on filmmaking,’ said Morshedul Islam.

‘When we started making films we found ourselves in a challenging situation. Quality filmmaking equipments were not available for which we struggled a lot. Alamgir Kabir inspired me to make my first film. One day a few of us were exchanging thoughts at Ramna restaurant. Suddenly Alamgir Kabir came and took me to his house where I was given a camera. He said “The shooting of your film will begin tomorrow”. I am deeply indebted to him,’ said Syed Salauddin Jaki.

Following the discussion, Morshedul Islam’s book Chhalachitra Proshonga Agami O Chaka was launched at the event.