In Boardbazar, Gazipur, a young boy once toiling under the relentless sun and rain as a mason’s helper captured the hearts of audiences on the silver screen. That same boy, today, has been honoured with the National Film Award for Best Child Actor. Md. Lion receives the prestigious accolade for his portrayal of Moyna in the film Am-Kathaler Chhuti (Mango-Jackfruit Holiday), following his earlier recognition with the Meril–Prothom Alo Critics Award.
Lion’s life, originating from Charpara in Mymensingh, reads like a story from a social realist film. From his earliest years, he bore the weight of his family’s struggles. Seeking work to support them, he moved to Gazipur. A brief attempt to work in a garment factory failed due to the absence of a national identity card, after which he settled in Boardbazar.
There, he began assisting his father, Abdul Khalil, in masonry work. His daily routine was gruelling: carrying bricks and cement, climbing staircases of three- to four-storey buildings, braving both sun and rain. He worked 10–15 days each month, sharing a dormitory with fellow labourers and sending a portion of his earnings home to his family.
Yet a decade ago, his life took an unexpected turn under the spotlight.
| Year | Film | Character | Age | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Am-Kathaler Chhuti | Moyna | 13 | First experience in front of a camera |
| 2023 | Am-Kathaler Chhuti | Moyna | 20 | Won National Film Award |
In 2016, director Mohammad Nuruzzaman cast Lion as the mischievous yet endearing Moyna. The experience was intimidating for the 13-year-old, filled with fear and unfamiliarity. Over time, he merged with the character, winning audiences’ hearts. However, the limelight proved fleeting. His education was interrupted, and responsibility for his younger brother fell on his shoulders. Lion could study no further than the second grade in night school.
By 2024, news of his nomination for the Meril–Prothom Alo Critics Award circulated, but Lion had gone off the radar. Through persistent efforts by the film’s crew and his paternal aunt, he was finally located. On 24 May 2024, at the United Convention Centre in Dhaka, Lion’s name was announced. Surpassing seasoned actors such as Shahiduzzaman Selim and Nasir Uddin Khan, he claimed the Best Child Actor award. Presenter Hanif Sanket remarked, “Some chase awards, others have the award chase them. Lion Ahmed is one of the latter.”
Today, Lion has returned to Boardbazar, but with a new vision. He aspires to continue his studies, armed with the courage to rise above life’s hardships. While Moyna remains a character on the screen, Lion’s own journey has become a powerful real-life tale of struggle, resilience, and triumphant return.