Javed laid to rest at Uttara cemetery

The Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), a place synonymous with the golden era of Bangladeshi cinema, witnessed an emotional and irreversible farewell on Wednesday afternoon as legendary film actor Ilias Javed arrived there for the final time. Having walked through its gates countless times during his illustrious career, this visit marked his last—an end to a chapter deeply embedded in the nation’s cinematic history.

From the afternoon onwards, the BFDC premises filled with fellow artistes, directors, producers, cultural figures, and devoted admirers who came to pay their last respects. The atmosphere was heavy with grief, nostalgia, and profound respect for an actor who once stood at the forefront of the silver screen.

Among those present were renowned actor Alamgir, veteran hero Uzzal, acclaimed directors Dewan Nazrul, Delwar Jahan Jhantu, Bangladesh Film Artistes’ Association President Misha Sawdagor, actor Omar Sani, producer Khorshed Alam Khasru, celebrated dance director Aziz Reza, actor Joy Chowdhury, Mukta, and many others from different generations of the film industry. Their presence reflected the deep personal and professional bonds Ilias Javed had formed over decades.

His mortal remains were placed near the BFDC mosque, where colleagues stood silently, offering prayers and sharing memories of a man who helped define an era of Bangladeshi cinema. Following the Asr prayer, his first funeral prayer (janaza) was held on the premises, attended by hundreds who bid him farewell with reverence and affection.

At around 5:00 pm, the body was taken from BFDC to Uttara. After a second janaza, Ilias Javed was laid to rest at Sector 12 Graveyard in Uttara at 6:35 pm, following the Maghrib prayer.

Ilias Javed began his cinematic journey in 1964, making his debut as a leading actor in the Urdu-language film Nayi Zindagi. However, it was the 1966 film Payel—opposite legendary actress Shabana—that cemented his popularity and established him as a bankable star. From there, his career flourished, spanning decades and encompassing a wide range of genres.

He was admired for his dignified screen presence, expressive performances, and versatility, portraying both romantic leads and complex dramatic characters with equal conviction.

Notable Career Highlights of Ilias Javed

Some of his most memorable films include Maleka Banu, Nishan, Papi Shatru, Rokto Shopoth, Saheb Bibi Golam, Kajol Rekha, Onek Din Agey, Ajo Bhulini, Kathor, Ma Baba Shontan, Rakhal Raja, Rosher Baidani, Jibon Sathi, and Abdullah.

With his passing, Bangladeshi cinema has lost one of its most distinguished torchbearers. Though Ilias Javed will no longer walk the corridors of BFDC, his legacy will continue to live on through the films that once captivated millions and shaped an era that remains golden in memory.