Seasoned actress Rozina is a name associated with the country's filmdom in the '80s. Rozina has won much acclaim for her memorable performances.
Who were her silver-screen heroes? During her long spell in Bangladeshi cinema, Rozina has performed with almost all the popular actors of her time: Razzaque, Faruq, Sohel Rana, Wasim, Alamgir, Zafar Iqbal. More recently, she did a film, "Rakkhushi", with Ferdous, representing this generation of actors.
Wasim was Rozina's first silver-screen hero and they were the most paired couple in her film career, recalls Rozina. Going back in time on her debut film "Rajmahal," she says, "Wasim already had a large fan following while I was a debutant. Surprisingly the films that we did together gained wide popularity. "Rosher Baidani," was a blockbuster. This was followed by "Rajshinghashon" and "Zarka" to name a few. As an individual, Wasim was very laid back and relaxed even on the shooting spot. He was extremely cooperative even though I had just tiptoed into the industry. He would often cut jokes to make the environment lighter. He was simply a wonderful person to work with.
"Soon I was cast opposite Faruq. With Faruq, mostly presented as a 'rebellious village youth,' films such "Tasher Ghar," "Shukher Shangshar" and "Janota Express" were massive hits.
"The mild-natured Faruq won over the audience with his angry young man image. Films on social issues still have the potential to attract the masses as it did then.
"In the film "Matshakannya" I played a mermaid. I was totally uncomfortable in the costume while shooting went on from dawn to late evening, that too in the deep sea. However, Faruq bhai was extremely caring, which in some way eased my discomfort and I could go on with the shooting in Cox's Bazar.
"In my career, Parvez bhai AKA Sohel Rana, occupies a very important place too," says Rozina. The duo appeared in the film "Hironpasha" that won the hearts of the audience. "He was known as a romantic hero. While working he was very friendly but after that he was mostly absorbed in reading and never engaged in idle chitchat," Rozina says smilingly.
"In the films "Bouma," "Dolna" and more, Alamgir was my co-actor. Not only as a hero, the force of his individuality impressed me greatly. Often I have felt that Alamgir was very reserved and belonged to an altogether different world. Initially I was hesitant to act opposite him. Arrogance or pride was, however, never his trait. Rather he would treat me like a family member and thus we maintained a pleasant relationship as co-actors.
"One of my favourites was the dashing hero Zafar Iqbal. I still feel, it was too early for him to leave the world, and his presence is missed till date. He passed away in 1991. Only a few days before he left us, I remember working with him at Bari Studio. Possibly the title of the film was 'Bondhu Amar.' He was handsome and glamorous; even if he is no more, it is difficult for the audience to forget him," Rozina adds.
"Ujjal was my hero in quite a few films such as 'Chor Police Dakat," "Ghor Bari Nasib" etc. Ujjal was friendly and helpful as well.
In the film "Obhijaan," Nayak Raj Razzaque was my co-actor. He was undoubtedly a superstar and I was totally taken aback by his humility. I was fortunate to have been paired with him in several Rajlokhhi productions.
"Last but not the least, Ferdous. After my long hiatus from films I was paired with him in the film "Rakkhushi." I found him to be very talented, cultured, and smart. Although he is junior to me, he seemed quite at ease being my co-actor".
