Leaked Footage or Intentional Move? Shabnur Expresses Anger

In February 2024, popular Dhallywood actress Shabnur began shooting for a new film titled Rongna after the film’s muhurat (auspicious beginning). Fans were excited to see her return to the screen after a break, and Shabnur herself was inspired and happy by the warm reception. However, this excitement was short-lived when incomplete footage of the film began appearing on YouTube and Facebook. Shabnur expressed her anger over this incident, posting about it on Facebook on Friday.

Shabnur started her career in the Dhallywood industry with the film Chandni Raat in 1993, directed by Ehtesham, and continued acting until 2013. Over the years, she acted in over 150 films. She became less active in films due to family commitments and her travels to and from Australia. At the end of 2023, upon returning to Dhaka, three new film projects were announced, including Rongna.

In her Facebook post, Shabnur shared her feelings:
“Many of you know I agreed to act in Rongna. The muhurat of the film took place in February 2024, and everyone was excited. After seeing the public reaction, I was hopeful, thinking I would be working with new talents, and surely, something good would come out of it. Shortly after the muhurat, I returned to the country and worked in the intense heat for a few days. However, due to various complications, we couldn’t complete the shoot at that time. I had discussions with the producer about finishing the remaining shots and releasing the film in cinemas.”

The director of Rongna is Arafat Hossain, and the film is produced under the banner of MS Films by Mousumi Akter.

Accusations of Unprofessionalism
Shabnur went on to accuse the director and producers of unprofessional behaviour, saying:
“Those involved in the production and direction were unprofessional from the start. They released a poor-quality poster even before the shoot, which was heavily criticised on social media. During the shoot, the team was disorganised and unprofessional. Initially, I was told that some of the scenes and songs would be filmed abroad, and the editing would also be done overseas, but I saw no signs of this happening. Despite this, I wanted to honour my commitment and was preparing for the remaining shoot in December. But then, I suddenly saw incomplete footage of the film being uploaded on YouTube!”

The actress expressed her disappointment, adding, “The film, which was supposed to be released in cinemas, is now freely circulating online! I am a cinema actress. My work is not meant to be shown for free on YouTube. If I had known this project would be released as online content instead of a theatrical release, I would never have agreed to be a part of it.”

Shabnur also addressed rumours that she had decided to stop shooting for the film, clarifying in her post:
“I never said I would stop working on Rongna. So why were the incomplete clips uploaded without my permission on YouTube and Facebook? Now, it’s being said that they will shoot new scenes, discarding the old footage, which is completely unacceptable. I am deeply saddened and disappointed by this incident. My long-earned reputation and professional dignity have been severely damaged. This is not only a personal loss for me, but a sad and frustrating event for the entire Bengali film industry. I am deeply grateful to my fans and well-wishers for expressing their anger and disappointment over this matter. They have always supported me, and their love, encouragement, and inspiration are my greatest strength.”

A Call for Professionalism in the Industry
Shabnur went on to express her concern about the lack of professionalism in today’s film industry. She wrote:
“In today’s film industry, the lack of professionalism, discipline, and mutual respect is increasing day by day. Due to the absence of skilled directors and professional producers, it has become increasingly difficult to produce quality films. Many choose the easy path, not understanding the true value of art. As a result, the quality of films is deteriorating, and artists are losing the respect they deserve.”

Shabnur’s experience with Rongna is seen as a reflection of these broader issues affecting the industry.