Renowned actor, producer and painter Afzal Hossain is also deeply engaged in writing, often sharing his life experiences and reflections on human relationships through social media. Recently, he posted a deeply personal account on Facebook, tracing his journey from a village boy with big dreams to a celebrated artiste of the country.
In his post, Afzal Hossain recalled how he came to the city from his village with the single ambition of getting admitted to an art college. At the time, only 35 to 40 students would be selected from hundreds of applicants, yet he felt confident because he believed in his ability to draw. Looking back, however, he wondered: if influence had mattered more than talent in the entrance exam, would he have had to return to Parulia as just another boy from the village?
He also reminisced about his student life, saying poetry recitation was a daily joy. Sitting in a circle in the hostel courtyard and reciting poems with friends became a regular and cherished ritual.
Although there was no active political culture in the college, a student union existed. Because of his strong presence in cultural activities and poetry recitation, Afzal Hossain was made the cultural secretary. During the college’s silver jubilee celebration, he took the initiative to stage a play with the permission of teachers Nabi sir and Rafiqun Nabi sir. Though he was not supposed to act in the production, circumstances led him to go on stage.
After the performance, an unknown man approached him, praised his acting and invited him to join rehearsals at Dhaka Theatre. Later, Afzal Hossain learned that the man was none other than legendary theatre personality and freedom fighter Nasiruddin Yousuff.
He admitted that he had no initial desire to become an actor. Yet through theatre, he came into contact with many extraordinary people. That same year, iconic playwright, director and actor Abdullah Al Mamun invited him to act in a television drama. At the time, their theatre groups were rivals. Reflecting on it now, Afzal Hossain wrote, “It’s surprising to think—if factionalism had ruled then, would I ever have received that opportunity?”
His journey into films was equally unplanned. One of the country’s most successful producer-directors, Kazi Zahir, offered him a role in the film “Notun Bou”. Giving a stage and television actor a chance in cinema was rare at the time and became a turning point in his career.
Afzal Hossain’s story is not just about success-it is a reminder of how talent, openness and timely opportunities can change the course of a life.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
