I don't like the appellation 'woman filmmaker'--Faria
Playwright-director Faria Hossain currently lives in the USA as she is married to an expatriate Bangalee. She is the maker of films based on women's issues such as Ladies' Hostel and Chena Achena Mukh. On her regular visits to Dhaka, she organises various stage dramas, at least twice or thrice a year. She spoke with our cultural correspondent about her work and life.How do you compare the present scenario with the early years of your career?
I have suffered a lot. I was young and the only thing I had was confidence and strong family support. None of my family members were from the cultural line though. Many people, who badmouthed my work, were keen to work with me later on. Filmmakers today have better options, facilities and are professional. That's why it's much easier to work now. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a woman filmmaker?
In the beginning I faced many problems since nobody believed that I would be able to work. But, as is widely known, women filmmakers are really well organised. Although I don't like the appellation 'woman filmmaker', I am considered as one of the best five filmmakers who are working without government aid. Are you satisfied with your work so far?
I don't think so. I did some very good work at the beginning. But later on everything became pretty monotonous. So, I needed a break. Did you ever think of working with the theme of our Liberation War?
I haven't yet worked with the theme of our Liberation War since it is a sensitive issue and I do not feel confident enough to tackle it. I have mostly worked on human relations, feminine ideas, but not the cliched variety. Is there any specific issue that you want to work with in future?
The philosophy of women is projected in my dramas time and again. Now, I want to portray the masculine element in my work. How did you move to directing from writing?
When my friends were looking for jobs I was already in the seventh year of my professional career. I was working with Shahadat Chowdhury, Asad Chowdhury, Humayun Ahmed, Abdullah Abu Sayeed and people of that stature. I also worked with Arun Chowdhury from whom I got the elements of scriptwriting. Everybody knew my background and helped me, as I was not new in this field. I didn't have to struggle as the newcomers do. Tell us about the awards you have received so far.
In 1996, I got the BACHSAS Award for Ladies' Hostel and the honour for 10 best women by Annanya. In 1999, I got the Cultural Reporters' Association Award for Chena Achena Mukh. In 2000, I became the second best filmmaker, next to Humayun Ahmed, in the SYRUS survey, which was conducted in the country. This is possibly the best award I have received so far.
| 
