In the past, the television industry in Bangladesh was revered for producing timeless classics such as “Kothao Keu Nei” and “Aaj Robibar”, with BTV being the primary source of captivating stories that resonated with generations. However, with the emergence of private channels, the quantity of television dramas increased significantly, albeit at the expense of quality. Presently, the industry is grappling to reclaim its former prestige and stability.
To address this concerning trend, a roundtable discussion organized by The Daily Star convened esteemed figures in the field, including Afzal Hossain, Tariq Anam Khan, Azad Abul Kalam, Wahida Mollick Jolly, Azizul Hakim, Salahuddin Lavlu, Masum Reza, Rashed Mamun Apu, Deepa Khandakar, Ahsan Habib Nasim, Zahid Hossain Shovon, Tonima Hamid, and Aranyo Anawer. Led by entertainment journalist Shah Alam Shazu, the session delved into the critical challenges facing the television industry and explored collaborative strategies to revive its golden era.
During the event, Afzal Hossain, a prominent figure in the industry, opted to listen attentively before sharing his insights, setting the tone for the discussion. Tariq Anam Khan, a revered artist actively engaged in television, expressed concerns about the detrimental impact of commercialization on artistic integrity within the industry.
Salahuddin Lavlu, recognized for creating enduring dramas like “Vober Hat” and “Ronger Manush”, highlighted the shifting influence of platforms like YouTube and the widening income disparities among actors. Lavlu underscored the adverse effects of the prevailing per-day payment system, emphasizing the need for a return to industry solidarity and fair compensation practices.
Playwright Masum Reza, known for crafting acclaimed dramas, underscored the absence of a cohesive peer group capable of advocating for industry interests. He drew parallels with successful collective actions in other entertainment sectors, emphasizing the necessity for a unified pressure group within the television industry.
Azad Abul Kalam, a respected artist and President of Actors’ Equity Bangladesh, emphasized the industry’s need for introspection and adaptation to evolving audience preferences. He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and inclusivity in addressing industry challenges.
Rashed Mamun Apu, General Secretary of Actors’ Equity, lamented the industry’s lack of reciprocity and accountability, advocating for a more inclusive approach that values talent and fosters industry sustainability.
Veteran actor Azizul Hakim discussed the encroaching commercialization of television channels and the resultant decline in quality programming. He called for a renewed focus on meaningful content and collaboration to counterbalance the dominance of profit-driven motives.
Wahida Mollick Jolly stressed the urgency of unifying the television and OTT sectors under a coherent framework to address industry challenges effectively. She highlighted the importance of preserving industry heritage and educating new entrants about the contributions of industry veterans.
Concluding the discussion, Afzal Hossain reflected on the industry’s evolution and the path forward. He highlighted the importance of nurturing young talents and delivering quality storytelling to meet audience expectations, emphasizing that the industry’s challenges can be overcome with a concerted effort towards excellence.