EID OTT lineup: Big names, bigger stories

It's no exaggeration to say that with the rise of multiple streaming platforms over the past decade, Bangladeshi audiences now eagerly anticipate high-quality OTT content during the Eid holidays. OTT platforms have significantly shifted attention away from traditional theatrical releases, securing a strong foothold among local viewers—and this year is no exception.

This Eid, the OTT lineup is set to impress, with Jaya Ahsan making her much-anticipated debut in an OTT production, Nasir Uddin Khan returning with 'Myself Allen Swapan 2', and the ever-popular romantic hero Apurba showcasing a fresh new look.

Jaya's first-ever web series appearance on Hoichoi

'Jimmi' is set to premiere on the OTT platform Hoichoi on 28 March as part of the Eid celebrations. Directed by Ashfaque Nipun, the series stars Jaya Ahsan, Iresh Zaker, and Shahriar Nazim Joy, among others.

This political thriller centres around Runa Laila, played by Jaya Ahsan, who is seen surrounded by piles of money and relentlessly chasing after more as her life takes unexpected turns. Once a simple government employee, Runa's world begins to change drastically.

Reflecting on her role, Jaya Ahsan shared, "I have always been drawn to challenging characters, and Runa Laila's role was no exception. I consider myself a director's actor, and since this was my first time working with Nipun—especially in a series—I followed his vision completely."

The trailer, released on 22 March, teases the intense storyline. After its release, director Nipun remarked, "The audience has now seen the first look of our series. We hope they liked it. Our entire team has worked hard to bring a fresh and compelling story to life through 'Jimmi'. Now, we eagerly await its release."

Allen Swapan returns on Chorki

The second season of 'Myself Allen Swapan' is set to launch on the local OTT platform Chorki on Eid day. Directed by Shihab Shaheen, the series features Nasir Uddin Khan reprising his role as the titular character, alongside Rafiath Rashid Mithila.

The first season concluded on a suspenseful note, with Swapan delivering his now-iconic introduction: "Myself Shamsur Rahman Swapan, aka Allen Swapan." The finale left viewers with lingering questions—who was the masked figure Swapan was conversing with? Why were they searching for him? These unanswered mysteries are set to unravel in the upcoming season.

In the announcement video, Allen Swapan is seen standing amidst stacks of scattered money, dressed in his signature safari suit and flashing his familiar grin. A voice speaking in the Chattogram dialect demands, "Where is my 400 crore?" Swapan then responds, "Because of you, I had to come out. Myself, Shamsur Rahman Swapan, aka Allen Swapan." 

The mystery surrounding the Tk400 crore remains unresolved, leaving audiences curious about its owner and whereabouts.

The first season depicted Swapan's transformation from a small-time drug dealer in Chattogram to a major player in money laundering. The new season is expected to expand on his operations, possibly altering the scale and nature of his business.

Reflecting on the project, director Shihab Shaheen shared, "Creating 'Myself Allen Swapan 2' was a truly challenging experience. These challenges pushed me to explore new perspectives. The story and characters have evolved organically, and this season has been taken to a much grander scale."

Apurba and Farin's romance blooms on Bongo

The web film 'How Sweet' is scheduled to debut on the local OTT platform Bongo on Eid day. Directed by Kajal Arefin, the film features Ziaul Faruq Apurba and Tasnia Farin in the lead roles.

Combining romance, comedy, and action, the film's trailer was released on 18 March. It opens with Apurba at the Sadarghat launch terminal, narrating how he accidentally broke Farin's camera lens, which fell into the water. He demands compensation, to which Farin responds by threatening to push him into the river.

 Apurba then grabs her hand, marking the start of a love story that begins with conflict. This project also marks the first time Apurba and Farin are paired together in an OTT production.

The film includes a new song composed by Akassh Sen and performed by Balam and Nazmun Munira Nancy, featuring Apurba and Farin in a romantic sequence. One of the trailer's standout moments is Apurba's intense action sequence in front of a helicopter. 

Towards the end, 'Bachelor Point' stars Ziaul Haque Palash, Marzuk Russell and Chashi Alam make a surprise appearance, armed with guns. Additionally, Lamima Lam is seen performing in a special song.

Sharing his thoughts on the project, director Kajol said, "Our goal was to bring a theatrical experience to the OTT platform. Since I plan to venture into filmmaking, I see this as part of that journey. I have incorporated elements of commercial cinema to create an immersive experience that allows viewers to escape their daily struggles and enjoy pure entertainment."