Five years have elapsed since the passing of esteemed actor ATM Shamsuzzaman, a prominent figure in Bangladeshi cinema and a recipient of the Ekushey Padak for his remarkable contributions to the industry. He passed away on February 20, 2021, leaving behind a legacy that revolutionized the art of character portrayal on stage and screen.
Born on September 10, 1941, in Daulatpur, Noakhali, Shamsuzzaman embarked on his acting career through the television drama series “Sangsaptak,” directed by Abdullah Al Mamun. His portrayal of the character Ramzan captivated audiences, establishing him as a formidable presence in television dramas during a pivotal era for the medium.
Making his mark in cinema in 1972 with “Ora 11 Jon,” Shamsuzzaman portrayed a war criminal in one of the earliest post-Liberation War films in the country. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he became synonymous with intricate villainous roles, particularly in films helmed by Amjad Hossain, such as Nayanmani and “Golapi Ekhon Traine,” where his performances added depth to the storylines.
His national acclaim soared after his role in “Asami,” directed by Dilip Biswas, solidifying his reputation as one of the most compelling screen antagonists in the country. Over the years, he showcased remarkable versatility, featuring in over 400 films, including “Surja Dighal Bari,” “Dayee Ke?,” “Shasti,” “Hajar Bachhar Dhore,” “Molla Barir Bou,” “Chander Moto Bou,” and “Mon Boshena Porar Table-a.”
Shamsuzzaman was a six-time recipient of the Bangladesh National Film Awards, winning in various categories such as Best Actor for “Dayee Ke?” (1987); Best Comedy Actor for “Madam Fuli” (1999), “Churiwala” (2001), and “Mon Boshena Porar Table-a” (2009); Best Supporting Actor for “Chorabali” (2012); and the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.
In 2015, he was bestowed with the Ekushey Padak, a prestigious civilian honor in Bangladesh, recognizing his enduring impact on Bangladeshi cinema. Revered for his intensity, versatility, and unmistakable on-screen presence, Shamsuzzaman continues to be a pivotal figure in the advancement of contemporary Bangla film acting.