Mehazabien Chowdhury pulls on heartstrings with 'Saba'

It is a well-known fact that Mehazabien Chowdhury is not afraid to take on resilient and complex characters who are bound to pull at your heartstrings. Right after the success of her previous release, 'Priyo Maloti', she is making waves again with her role in 'Saba'.

Directed by Maksud Hossain, the film was released in local theatres on 26 September. It did not take long for the positive reviews to come in–many viewers saying how they resonated with the film. 

The film follows the story of Saba, whose life changes after her mother, Shirin, becomes a victim of a road accident. With Shirin now confined to a wheelchair and Saba's father out of the picture, it is up to Saba to support her mother, making grave sacrifices, such as her career. Struggling with financial hardship, she works hard to try to support her mother. However, after Shirin suffers from a heart attack, doctors advise urgent surgery. At that moment, a new crisis descends on the helpless Saba's life.

I was drawn to the depth of emotions and the layers of Saba's personality. As an actress, I always look for roles that challenge me and allow me to explore new dimensions of storytelling. 'Saba' gave me exactly that, a chance to feel, to live, and to share something universal with the audience, the love between a mother and child.

Mehazabien Chowdhury

Many have praised Mehazabien for bringing Saba's character to life, making it feel as if real life is unfolding on the screen.

While the film has resonated with viewers, many wonder what it was about Saba that resonated with the actress herself.

"When Saba was first narrated to me, I felt an immediate emotional connection with the character. It was not just another role—it was a journey of a young woman whose life is shaped by love, sacrifice, and an almost unbreakable bond with her mother," shared Mehazabien. 

She continues, "I was drawn to the depth of emotions and the layers of her personality. As an actress, I always look for roles that challenge me and allow me to explore new dimensions of storytelling. Saba gave me exactly that, a chance to feel, to live, and to share something universal with the audience, the love between a mother and child."

Long before Saba made its way to local theatres, its world premiere took place last September at the Toronto International Film Festival. After that, it travelled to multiple international film festivals, including Busan, Red Sea, Gothenburg, Sydney, and Raindance. Despite being a story rooted in Bangladesh, it has surprisingly resonated with its global audience. 

"The response from international audiences has been truly overwhelming. They may not know our language or our cultural nuances in detail, but they understood the emotions, the relationships, and the struggles shown in 'Saba'."

"Many viewers shared that the film reminded them of their own mothers, their own sacrifices, and the invisible strength that women carry within families. This universality proved to me that cinema knows no borders. When emotions are true, they touch hearts everywhere."

As Mehazabien continues to pull on heartstrings, fans are eager to see her in more roles. However, as Mehazabien explains, she believes in "quality over quantity."

"I waited for the right stories, the right teams, and the right moments," she shares. "I wanted my first films to carry meaning and to resonate not only with the local audience but also on an international level. That patience has paid off with Saba, which I feel proud to be part of."

It is hard for fans to look away from Mehazabien's roots–television dramas. Even a few years ago, if a drama starred Mehazabien, fans knew that the drama would be good. 

But as the actress seems to be making a shift to films, many fans remain curious as to whether she plans to return to dramas.

"Television will always remain very close to my heart. It has given me everything: recognition, love, and a bond with the audience. While I may not appear as frequently as before, I never see myself completely stepping away from dramas. It is more about choosing the right projects that inspire me and have something meaningful to say. If a story comes along that excites me, I will definitely return to television."

However, as the pressure increases on the star to produce more content–be it film or drama–Mehazabien replies humbly, explaining that she chooses fewer roles so she can devote her full energy to the stories she takes on.

"Acting is not just about appearing on screen; it is about creating an impact. By limiting the number of projects, I can ensure that whatever I do is authentic, well-prepared, and meaningful. I believe this way, even if the audience sees me less often, they see me in stronger roles that stay with them."

Though Mehazabien rises as a star, Bangladesh's stagnant film industry still weighs heavily. As cinema halls shut down, it begs the question as to why Mehazabien has still focused on films.  If there are no cinema halls, then will the career not fall into danger? 

"Every career has its risks, and the film industry, especially in Bangladesh, has gone through many ups and downs. But I believe challenges also create opportunities. This is actually an exciting time for Bangladeshi cinema," said the actress.

She continues, "We are telling new stories, exploring diverse themes, and reaching international platforms. Yes, it is a risk, but it is also a responsibility. I feel proud to be part of this transition period. If we, as actors, do not step forward now, the industry will not grow. So instead of fearing the risks, I am motivated by the possibility of building something greater for the next generation of filmmakers and actors."