Another headlining year ahead for Jaya Ahsan

In 2024, Jaya Ahsan's name took over the headlines. Whether it was a powerful statement as an activist, a new movie release, or a daring new fashion statement, every move from her dominated the internet. And it doesn't seem like the actress and fashion icon will be stopping any time soon.

Now, Jaya Ahsan has returned to the spotlight with more new releases, reestablishing her position at the top in Bangladesh's entertainment industry. With the release of her film, 'Nakshi Kanthar Jamin', directed by Akram Khan, and the screening of 'Putul Nacher Itikotha', Jaya Ahsan will continue to make waves in the new year. So, we sat with Jaya Ahsan to discuss her comeback to films, recent successes and hopes for the new year. 

Fresh wave in the New Year

Jaya Ahsan is already set to begin the new year with a bang, which includes the screening of the upcoming film, 'Putul Nacher Itikotha', where she stars as Kusum; a film adaptation of Manik Bandopadhyay's renowned novel. Directed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, it is set to be released in West Bengal theatres in May 2025 to coincide with the birth anniversary of Manik Bandopadhyay. 

However, it will premiere earlier at the International Film Festival Rotterdam in the Netherlands, starting 30 January, where it will compete in the Big Screen Competition category. 

It does not stop there for her, as she plans to move forward with fresh aspirations, including the releases of 'Jimni' directed by Ashfaque Nipun and 'Dear Ma' by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury.

Even with so much on her plate, when it comes to her plans for 2025, Jaya likes to take things as they go. 

"I don't plan things too much. I face the challenges that come my way and move forward. Of course, there is hope for a good year ahead. I also have high expectations for the success of the three films set to release this year. I wish for a beautiful life for everyone—that's my hope," said Jaya.

A welcome comeback

On the screen, Jaya does not need to speak, her eyes say everything, as she embodies the character, Rahela, from 'Nakshi Kanthar Jamin'. Based on Hasan Azizul Haque's 'Bidhobader Kotha', Rahela is a deeply introverted girl who seems perpetually cursed as she navigates life against the backdrop of the Liberation War in Bangladesh. 

The last time Jaya left her mark on the big screens was around February with titles such as 'Peyarar Subash' and 'Bhootpori', earning praise both in Bangladesh and India. Now, in less than a year, she is back with the film 'Nakshi Kanthar Jamin', which was released in theatres on 27 December. 

"As long as quality Bangladeshi films are consistently screened in theatres, the audience will come. People don't watch content for the hero or heroine anymore. Content is the hero now."

Jaya Ahsan

The film premiered at several international festivals before its release in Bangladesh and has received multiple awards, including the Third Best Film Award in the Asian Competition category at the Bengaluru International Film Festival. 
As her achievements reach beyond borders, Jaya feels inspired by the impact her work has on the industry.
"When the audience connected with 'Nakshi Kanthar Jamin' at the Goa Film Festival, it felt truly amazing. When our films connect with audiences in other countries, it motivates us to strive for even better work," shared Jaya. 

However, these roles bring on their unique challenges as well. 

"There is always pressure when portraying such complex characters and I felt it strongly while portraying Rahela. The author provides a vivid description of the characters, and there's a responsibility to stay true to that. At the same time, we try to ensure that the essence of the character is not lost," commented Jaya. 

Future of the industry

As one of the top stars in Bangladesh, with local and international experience, Jaya feels passionate about Bangladesh's entertainment industry. 

One of the glaring issues Jaya addresses is the declining number of cinemas in Bangladesh. 

"I believe we need a variety of films so the audience can explore and find what they like. The arts and the commercial side of the industry need to come together to make this happen," shared Jaya.

She continues, "As long as quality Bangladeshi films are consistently screened in theatres, the audience will come. People don't watch content for the hero or heroine anymore. Content is the hero now."

When it comes to the huge barriers emerging artistes face in sustaining their careers in the entertainment industry, Jaya talks about a much more hopeful perspective. 

"The artistes that have come to stay will remain. I have watched actresses such as Mehazabien Chowdhury and Tasnia Farin grow into who they are today," shared Jaya. 

She concludes, "I believe artistes like them are in the industry for the long haul and the industry will only grow in the future."