Award-winning Bangladeshi filmmaker Shahnewaz Kakoli, renowned for her acclaimed films Uttorer Sur and Nodijon, is currently enduring a challenging period of recovery following a stroke in October last year. Since then, she has been receiving ongoing treatment and rehabilitation at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), where she continues physiotherapy aimed at restoring her mobility, strength, and overall independence.
According to her husband, Pran Roy, Kakoli has made gradual progress in recent weeks, though the journey toward full recovery remains long and demanding.
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Rehabilitation and Daily Progress
Roy explained that Kakoli is under the regular care of physiotherapist Manna Papiya. Initially, even sitting upright was impossible for her, but she can now remain seated for short periods with assistance.
“She could not sit at all at first,” Roy said. “Now, when placed on a chair, she can remain seated for some time. It is a small improvement, but it gives us hope.”
Walking independently is not yet possible. Therapists provide support with a waist belt while assisting her to take steps during therapy sessions.
Doctors at CRP remain cautiously optimistic, emphasising that recovery is gradual. “They are trying their best,” Roy noted. “Everyone at CRP is extremely sincere and compassionate. Their care and dedication are truly remarkable. Beyond that, everything depends on God’s will.”
Speech and Mobility Recovery
Kakoli has also shown encouraging progress in speech. Initially struggling to communicate, she can now speak approximately 80 per cent normally.
“She can talk now,” Roy said. “Earlier it was very difficult for her. Compared to before, she is improving little by little.”
However, the left side of her body remains affected. Her left arm and left leg cannot move independently and require support during therapy sessions.
Medical Timeline
Following the stroke in October, Kakoli spent two months in hospital, then briefly returned home before being readmitted. She has now been staying in a hospital cabin for over a month as her rehabilitation continues.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Shahnewaz Kakoli |
| Profession | Film director |
| Major Films | Uttorer Sur, Nodijon |
| Health Condition | Stroke (October 2025) |
| Current Treatment | Physiotherapy at CRP |
| Speech Recovery | ~80% restored |
| Mobility | Requires assistance; left side partially paralysed |
Financial Strains and Support
The ongoing treatment has created financial pressure. Roy revealed he sold his car to cover medical costs, while friends, colleagues, and cultural associations, including the Bangladesh Film Artistes’ Association, have provided essential support.
“We are grateful to everyone who has stood beside us during this difficult time,” he said. “Their support means a great deal.”
Government Appeal
Roy also urged government intervention, highlighting Kakoli’s status as a National Film Award recipient. “When an artist receives a National Film Award, they become a national asset,” he said. “In such situations, it would be appropriate for the government to come forward with support.”
Pending Projects
Before her illness, Kakoli was working on From Bangladesh. About ten per cent of the film remains incomplete due to financial and health constraints.
Legacy in Bangladeshi Cinema
Kakoli won the National Film Award for Best Story for Uttorer Sur, and actress Toma Mirza received a National Film Award for her role in Nodijon. Both films received critical and audience acclaim, reinforcing Kakoli’s reputation as a director capable of telling compelling, socially resonant stories.
Supporters now hope that with continued treatment, care, and encouragement, Shahnewaz Kakoli will overcome this challenging chapter and return to contributing to Bangladesh’s cinematic landscape.