Mehazabien steps into hosting role at ‘Priyo Maloti’ press event

After her husband’s tragic death in a fire, Maloti’s world is shattered. With no body recovered and no government assistance, she is left to fend for herself, battling through the complexities of life and survival. This real-life story of resilience is the centerpiece of “Priyo Maloti,” the debut feature film of director Shankha Dasgupta, and it marks a significant moment for Bangladesh’s film industry.

The film stars Mehazabien Chowdhury in the title role, making her first-ever appearance on the big screen after a 15-year career primarily on television. “Priyo Maloti” is set to hit cinemas on December 20, produced by Frame Per Second in collaboration with streaming platform Chorki.

In anticipation of its release, a press conference was held on Sunday at a club in Gulshan. The event was not a typical media briefing.

Mehazabien, who has been the face of countless press events over the years, took on a different role this time—both as a host and a key guest. She set the tone with her opening line: “Usually, I’m answering questions. Today, I’ll be asking them.”

One of her questions was directed at Adnan Al Rajeev, one of the film’s producers, asking what drew him to produce “Priyo Maloti.” Rajeev didn’t hesitate: “It was Maloti, it was Mehazabien Chowdhury. And the story itself captivated me,” he said.

The story is indeed powerful. Written and adapted for the screen by Shankha Dasgupta, “Priyo Maloti” tells the tale of a woman’s fight against both personal tragedy and a patriarchal society. “Maloti’s character faces multiple forms of struggle—social, economic, and emotional,” Dasgupta explained. “It’s a journey many women in this country can relate to. Through this film, I’ve raised questions about the societal norms that restrict women while highlighting their endurance.”

Based on a true story, “Priyo Maloti” does not shy away from tough realities. The film’s portrayal of Maloti’s struggles—dealing with her in-laws, society, and rigid religious customs—reflects the harsh conditions many women face in Bangladesh. The director pointed out that the film also raises a profound question: “Can a person’s existence be reduced to nothing more than a death certificate and an autopsy report?”

For Mehazabien, “Priyo Maloti” represents a bold new step in her career. Known for her nuanced performances on television, this film pushes her into new territory. She plays a pregnant woman fighting against multiple social forces, with the weight of her world on her shoulders. It’s a demanding role, one that requires both emotional depth and resilience.

Adnan Al Rajeev, known primarily for his work as a director, is also stepping into new shoes as a film producer. He has produced several successful OTT projects, but this is his first venture into cinema production. “The story was so unique, it felt necessary to make this film. I’ve always been drawn to Shankha’s dedication to good cinema, and as a fellow filmmaker, I believe it’s essential to support one another,” Rajeev said.

“Priyo Maloti” was announced on April 19, 2023, and filming took place across Dhaka and Barishal in September and October of that year. The release was officially confirmed on December 5, 2024, followed by the launch of its trailer on December 14. The film has been given a U rating, meaning it’s appropriate for audiences of all ages, and it has already earned international recognition.

The film was selected for both the Cairo International Film Festival and the International Film Festival of India, where it received widespread acclaim. Despite being a deeply local story, “Priyo Maloti” resonated with international audiences, proving that its themes of resilience and survival are universally understood.

LondonGBDESK//