Entertainment Desk:

Actress Azmeri Haque Badhon is appearing in the film Bonolota Express, based on a story by renowned fiction writer Humayun Ahmed. She has reshaped herself anew for the role. The actress recently spoke to Bonik Barta about her experience, from choosing the character to losing weight and preparing for the part. Interview conducted by Wahidur Rahman.

How did you first receive the offer to join the new film Bonolota Express?

I’ve known Tanim for a long time, but we never actually worked together. We discussed a project once or twice in between. But nothing was finalised. I joined this film on very short notice. They also didn’t have much time. He texted me and said, “Badhon, there’s a character in Bonolota Express. Would you like to do it?” Then he sent me the novel, which I read. After reading it, I realised that he had thought of me specifically for the character I had imagined.

You recently lost some weight. Was that your own decision, or was it required for the role?

The decision was largely for myself, because I had become physically and mentally unwell due to weight gain. When your body weight exceeds what it should be, it affects you both physically and mentally. From that point, I felt I needed to lose weight. At the same time, the kind of character I got — excess weight was becoming a barrier there as well. So overall, I decided to get fit. It was in my own interest and also in the interest of my work.

Which phase of this transformation was the most difficult?

The most difficult time was actually the initial phase — coming down from 78 kg to at least 75 kg. That period was extremely tough because losing weight at the beginning is very challenging. After that, the weight started dropping gradually. But losing the first two to three kilos was the hardest part. That initial change was crucial. Once that happened, I became very inspired and took care of myself for the rest of the time — exercising regularly and following a diet.

Alongside the physical transformation, how did you prepare mentally for the film?

The character I play in Bonolota Express is someone we see around us all the time. In terms of mental preparation, I’ve observed many people like this in my surroundings, so that kind of grooming was already there. I’m a very keen observer. Besides, Tanim helped me a lot in understanding and embodying the character. Chanchal bhai is my co-actor in the film; he also helped me a great deal.

What kind of inspiration or courage did you receive from your daughter?

My daughter is my only source of inspiration and courage. She has taken on the role of my mother in many ways. She supports me in everything, scolds me, and even gets angry when needed. She pushed me to exercise regularly and not overeat. She helped me a lot in those areas.

Does your daughter’s opinion influence your choice of work?

Yes, absolutely! My daughter’s opinion does influence my choice of work. Just as it did in the case of Bonolota Express. The role isn’t very wide in terms of range, but my daughter wanted me to be associated with a film like this or to work in a Tanim Noor film.

What about the story or atmosphere of the film attracted you?

Why the story of this film attracted me — audiences will understand that once it’s released. I believe it will gain more popularity than Utshob and will also be commercially more successful than Utshob. I don’t really know why Humayun Ahmed’s stories attract people — his stories simply have that pull. The script of the film is also very beautifully written. People will laugh at every line, every frame.

Did you feel an added sense of responsibility working on a Humayun Ahmed story?

Of course. Humayun Ahmed is deeply intertwined with my life. I enrolled in Lux Channel I Superstar just to meet him. I worked with him for two and a half years as well. He is one of my most favourite writers, and his writing attracts me immensely. When I got the opportunity to work on a story by Humayun Ahmed, I didn’t want to miss it.

In what new way do you think audiences will see you in this film?

People will realise, after many years, that I can also play affluent characters. I’m almost always chosen for struggling or sorrowful roles. This character will show that Badhon can play all kinds of roles. Audiences will definitely see me in a new light in Bonolota Express.