Anjana Rahman passes away at 59

Veteran actress Anjana Rahman passed away at 1:10 am on Saturday, while receiving treatment at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Hospital.

The news was confirmed to The Daily Star by Ahmed Tepantor.

Anjana developed a fever early in December. When the fever persisted, she was admitted to a private hospital on December 22, where she received treatment in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) for several days. She was later transferred to BSMMU.

Following multiple tests, a blood infection was detected.

Misha Sawdagor, President of the Film Artistes Association, announced that Anjana will be taken to FDC at around 11 AM on Saturday. Her colleagues from the film industry, along with fans, will have the opportunity to pay their final respects. The first janaza will be held at the same venue.

Afterwards, the actress’ body will be taken to the Banani graveyard, where a second Janaza will take place before she is laid to rest.

Born on June 27 in 1965, Anjana made her acting debut with the film “Dasyu Bonhur”, which marked the beginning of her remarkable career.

Based on the popular “Dasyu Bonhur” series authoured by Romena Afaz, the film paired her opposite Sohel Rana, and was produced under his banner. Released to critical and commercial success, the film was directed by Shamsuddin Togor and established Anjana as a promising new talent. Around the same time, she also starred in “Setu”, directed by Babul Chowdhury, further showcasing her versatility.

Even before her cinematic debut, Anjana had already achieved fame as a dancer, earning the prestigious title of the best dancer in Asia. However, it was the release of “Dasyu Bonhur” that changed her life forever. The film’s success catapulted her into stardom, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry. Offers began pouring in, and Anjana found herself at the forefront of Dhaka cinema.

For her debut film, Anjana was paid a signing fee of Tk 20,000—a significant sum at the time. Her third film, “Priyo Bandhobi”, directed by Motaleb Hossain, further solidified her reputation. Not long after, she received a call from the legendary director Khan Ataur Rahman, who had a special announcement for her. “You’ll be the heroine of my next film,” he declared. Overjoyed by this unexpected opportunity, Anjana embraced the role wholeheartedly. Incidentally, Khan Ata was a close friend of her father.

Her collaboration with Khan Ata led to the film “Matir Maya”, where she starred opposite Farooque. The film also featured notable actors Suchorita and Alamgir. Upon its release, “Matir Maya” was met with widespread acclaim and became a major success, propelling Anjana’s fame to new heights.

Anjana’s fifth film, “Ashikkhito”, directed by Azizur Rahman, was a monumental hit. Starring alongside Nayak Raj Razzak, the film resounded deeply with audiences across both urban and rural landscapes. Its success further entrenched her position as a leading figure in the film industry.

In an interview with The Daily Star, Anjana reminisced about the day she watched her debut film, “Dasyu Bonhur,” at the then iconic Gulistan Cinema Hall. “There were thousands of people,” she recalled. “Sohel Rana told me to wave at them, and when I did, the sight of the massive crowd cheering for me remains one of the most unforgettable moments of my career.”

Her career continued to flourish with the release of “Parineeta”, directed by Alamgir Kabir. Portraying the character of Lolita, Anjana received immense praise and went on to win the prestigious National Film Award for her performance.

Another milestone of hers was the film “Desh-Bidesh”, which was shot in the United States and starred Jashim, Shabana, and Mahmud Kali. A blockbuster hit, “Desh-Bidesh” cemented Anjana’s reputation as a versatile actress.

Over the years, Anjana became one of the most beloved faces of Dhaka cinema, starring opposite Nayak Raj Razzak in an impressive tally of 30 films.

With a career spanning over 300 films, Anjana remains an enduring symbol of talent and grace in the Bangladeshi film industry.