‘We became an independent nation because of Bangabandhu’s vision’

The director, Shyam Benegal, guided me throughout the shoot. I needed to understand Bangabandhu as a person, and recognise every emotion that he went through himself.

Dhallywood star Arifin Shuvoo is one of the busiest actors of the industry. He plays the role of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in eminent Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal's "Mujib: The Making of a Nation".

The biopic, jointly produced by Bangladesh and India, is awaiting release. The poster of the film was unveiled recently. Shuvoo is also looking forward to the release of his films, "Noor" and "Mission Extreme 2".

On Independence Day, the actor opened up about his experience of portraying Bangabandhu and more in a chat with The Daily Star.

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

You have been working on 'Mujib: The Making of a Nation' for quite a while. Now, the film is slated for release. What are your expectations from it?

I would like to make one request to the audience – Please watch this film irrespective of your religion or class, with an open mind. We have made it with a lot of love.

We became an independent nation because of Bangabandhu's vision. I hope people get to have a deeper understanding of who he was, through it.

What kind of challenges did you face while portraying Bangabandhu? 

Honestly speaking, I was not 'acting' on the sets. I completely immersed myself into the role and lived with it. The director, Shyam Benegal, guided me in this regard. I needed to understand Bangabandhu as a person, and recognise every emotion that he went through himself.

Although it was difficult and challenging at times, this experience is very close to my heart. I hope that shines through in the film.

Now that the shoot is over, have you been able to let go of this role?

No, if I am being honest. It will take time for me to get out of this character, as it was such a special experience. Playing Bangabandhu is a privilege for me as an actor. He was an incredible leader.

As one of the most prolific actors of the industry, what are your aspirations regarding films?

I want to leave behind a legacy of beloved and memorable films. I love the world of cinema – all my hopes and dreams are devoted to it.