‘Grateful to receive this honour during my lifetime’

Shabnam, one of the finest actresses of the 1960s, carved a special place in the hearts of Bengalis many years ago. She made a remarkable impact with the Urdu film “Chanda” and the Bengali film “Harano Din”, before going on to act in countless other films throughout her career.

She also appeared in a large number of films in Pakistan, where she won the prestigious Nigar Award 13 times.

Now, this legendary actress is set to receive the National Film Award’s Lifetime Achievement honour.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued a revised gazette notification for the 2023 National Film Awards yesterday, in which Shabnam’s name was included for the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“It is difficult to put into words. There are certain moments and certain times in life when everything cannot be fully expressed. That is how I feel right now. Even after hearing the news, I find it hard to describe my emotions,” Shabnam told The Daily Star.

She added, “However, I am happy. Truly happy. It feels wonderful. I am experiencing a deep sense of joy.”

She further said, “I am happy—extremely happy. I am especially happy because I am receiving this award during my lifetime. Some people receive such honours after they pass away.”

She further said, “This feeling is different. I have acted in films throughout my entire life. I have spent many years of my life dedicated to cinema. People show respect, love, and admiration—which is ultimately for an artiste. An artiste’s identity is the most important thing. Receiving the highest award for my work in cinema feels truly wonderful, so I can only feel happy.”

When asked how she was doing, Shabnam said, “I am not very well. My blood pressure is fluctuating. Still, I am grateful to the Almighty for however I am.”

It is worth mentioning that Shabnam last acted in 1999 in “Ammajan”, directed by Kazi Hayat. In this film, she received an overwhelming response with her character. Even today, many people still call her ‘Ammajan’.

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The actress said, “Even now, when I go somewhere, some people call me Ammajan. They show me immense respect. That is what an artiste truly receives. This is how I want to live on in people’s hearts.”