The actress talks about acting, identity, and the power of women-centric stories

Entertainment Desk:

Azmeri Haque Badhon has steadily carved a unique space for herself in Bangladeshi cinema through powerful performances and fearless storytelling. From her breakthrough role in ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’ to her evolving journey as an actor, she continues to challenge conventions with meaningful, women-centric narratives.

In this conversation, Badhon reflects on the emotional demands of acting, the struggles, her dreams for future roles, and the deeper purpose she wants her work to serve; both as an artiste and as a voice for women in society.

Do you approach acting differently now compared to earlier in your career?

I consider ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’ is the turning point of my acting career. The film was also my acting institution. It not only changed me as an actor, but also transformed me as a human being. Before that, I had never seriously thought about acting; back then, I mostly acted for money. It was through this film that I truly learned how to portray a character, guided by my director. In the beginning, I could not even fully grasp the character. The acting process in this film was completely raw and emotionally intense. At one point, I even experienced a panic attack. But I did not give up.

What techniques have you developed to stay authentic on screen?

Before playing any character, I first try to understand the psychology of that person. I forget my own identity as Bandhan and fully immerse myself in the character. For example, in ‘Guti’, my character Sultana was a smuggler. To prepare, I focused deeply on Sultana’s background, mindset, and life experiences. This process helps me separate myself from the character, allowing audiences to see someone entirely different on screen.

What challenges do senior actresses face in entertainment industry?

Senior actresses in the entertainment industry often face shrinking opportunities after middle age. The industry’s strong bias toward youth and appearance further reduces their chances, as younger actresses are seen as more marketable. There is also a lack of well-written roles for older women. Despite these challenges, the situation is slowly improving. With the growth of streaming platforms and more diverse storytelling, there is increasing demand for mature, complex characters. This shift is gradually creating better opportunities for senior actresses to showcase their talent and experience.

What advice would you give to young actors entering the industry today?

I don’t really like giving advice, but I can share my experience. When I worked on ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’, I was already 34; it marked a new beginning for me. So there’s no fixed timeline; you can start from anywhere and at any stage of life. What truly matters is your dedication. Hard work, honesty, and consistency have been the key factors behind my journey. There will be challenges and uncertainties, but staying committed to your craft and believing in your path can eventually open doors. Focus on growth, keep learning, and don’t rush the process.

How do you want audiences to remember your work?

As a Bangladeshi film, ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’ participating at Cannes after a long gap was a significant achievement; not just for me, but for the country as well. The film also brought me the National Film Award along with several international recognitions. My goal is for audiences to remember my work long after I’m gone, and I continue to shape myself with that vision in mind. I also want my work to create a meaningful impact on society, especially for women. Many young women have told me they find inspiration in my journey, and that truly matters to me. If my work and personality can move or influence even one person, I consider that deeply meaningful.

Are there any roles or projects you still dream of taking on?

I aspire to take on a project that can surpass what I achieved with ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’. That film set a powerful benchmark in my career, and now I’m eager to challenge myself further. I’m especially keen to work on strong, female-led stories where the narrative revolves around a woman’s journey, emotions, and resilience. I want roles that are layered, impactful, and socially relevant; projects that not only push me as an actor but also leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Finally, do you have any special message for your fans?

I don’t consider myself a mass-popular star; I believe I have a different kind of audience. My fans connect with me not just because of my work, but also because of who I am as a person. That connection means a lot to me. I’m truly grateful for their constant support and belief in my journey. I hope to continue doing meaningful work that resonates with them and reflects the trust they place in me. Source: Daily-Sun