Masuma Rahman Nabila is one of the most recognisable faces in Bangladeshi television and cinema. She first came into the spotlight as a presenter in 2006 through the television programme “Ebong Class Er Baire”. Over the years, she has built a strong acting career, appearing in notable films such as “Aynabaji”, “Toofan”, and her most recent work, “Bonolota Sen”. Known for her calm screen presence and thoughtful role choices, Nabila has maintained a steady position in the industry while balancing her personal life and career.In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, she spoke about Eid traditions, childhood memories, motherhood, and her upcoming Eid release.This Eid, Nabila returns to the big screen with a new film titled “Bonolota Sen”.
She said, “The film is based on poetry. It has a very artistic and poetic feel in every scene and frame.”“We did a lot of rehearsals, and I tried to give my best performance,” she shared. She also spoke about the effort behind her character’s appearance. “The director worked on the look with a lot of research and time.”She emphasised that performance mattered more than appearance. “For me, the performance was more challenging than the look.” She added that she chose the project because it offered something new. “I did not want to miss the opportunity. Everyone wants to explore something new.”She also shared, “The film is based on the work of Jibanananda Das.
I consider it a part of history. I feel proud to be part of that history.”However, for Nabila, Eid has always been a family affair rooted in Dhaka. She has celebrated this Eid in Dhaka with her family.Recalling her childhood, she described how Eid-ul-Azha felt different in earlier days, especially in the way animals were kept at home. “When we were young, there was space in our house where cows and goats brought from the market were kept. Now they are usually kept in garages.”She also remembered small everyday moments that made Eid meaningful. “We used to give leaves to the cows and goats and let them eat those.
We did these things when we were children.” Now, she finds herself trying to recreate those experiences for her daughter. “Now I try to make my daughter do the same things. That is the difference.”As a mother, Nabila now focuses on creating meaningful Eid memories for her daughter. “I try to make Eid as fulfilling as possible for her.” She shared how she plans small experiences during the holidays. “At night, we go out somewhere, maybe to a play zone. Last Eid, we went to the cinema to watch a film. It was her first cinema experience.”