Veteran Bangladeshi film actress Shabana is celebrating her 75th birthday today, 15 June (Monday). Widely regarded as one of the most prominent figures in the golden era of Bangladeshi cinema, she has earned enduring recognition across generations for her extensive contribution to the film industry.
Shabana was born on 15 June 1952 in the village of Dabua under Raozan upazila in Chattogram. Her birth name was Afroza Sultana Ratna. She later adopted the screen name “Shabana” when she began her acting career under the direction of filmmaker Ehtesham Haydar Chowdhury. From that point, she became widely known by this name, which is associated with a significant chapter in Bangladeshi cinema history.
She began her journey in the film industry at a very young age. In 1962, she appeared as a child artist in the film Nutan Sur. Her first role as a lead actress came in 1967 with the film Chokori. The film marked her debut as a heroine and brought her early recognition among audiences.
Throughout her career, Shabana formed successful on-screen partnerships with several leading actors. She acted in 130 films opposite actor Alamgir, which remains one of the most notable actor–actress collaborations in Bangladeshi cinema. She also gained popularity through performances alongside actors Razzak, Wasim, and Ujjal. Additionally, she appeared in films with Pakistani actor Nadeem, which were also well received by audiences.
In her personal life, Shabana married film director Wahid Sadik in 1973. The couple has two daughters and one son. At the height of her acting career, she moved to the United States with her family in 2000. She initially lived in New York and is currently residing in New Jersey with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
Over a career spanning approximately 36 years, Shabana acted in 299 films. Her filmography includes numerous commercially and critically noted works such as Chokori, Madhu Milan, Obujh Mon, Chand Suruj, Ekoi Ange Eto Roop, Chhadmabeshi, Chowdhury Bari, Shomadhan, Shwikrity, Ora 11 Jon, Atithi, Jhorer Pakhi, Jononi, Matir Ghor, Sokhi Tumi Kar, Shesh Uttar, Chhutir Ghonta, Najma, Vat De, Dui Poishar Alta, Rojonigondha, Ma O Chele, Ghorer Bou, Notun Prithibi, Chandap Dangar Bou, Oshanti, Birodh, and Shami Stree.
Career Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Afroza Sultana Ratna |
| Screen Name | Shabana |
| Date of Birth | 15 June 1952 |
| Birthplace | Dabua village, Raozan, Chattogram |
| First Film (Child Artist) | Nutan Sur (1962) |
| First Lead Role | Chokori (1967) |
| Total Films | 299 |
| Films with Alamgir | 130 |
| Years Active | Approximately 36 years |
| Current Residence | New Jersey, United States |
Shabana’s extensive body of work and long-standing presence in Bangladeshi cinema have established her as one of the most prolific actresses in the industry’s history.