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Dilara Zaman: A life illuminated by art of acting

‘A love for meaningful work gives an artist the strength to walk a long journey’

Published : Saturday, 12 September, 2026 at 12:00 AM

Farhana Naznin

Dilara Zaman is a name synonymous with dedication, dignity and excellence in Bangladesh’s entertainment industry. Across more than five decades, she has established herself as one of the country’s most respected and versatile actresses, working in television, film and theatre.

She began her acting journey at a time when acting was rarely considered a respectable profession, particularly for women from middle-class families. Yet her love for the craft kept her going. Over the years, she has witnessed the transformation of Bangladesh’s entertainment industry-from the early days of television to today’s digital platforms-while remaining committed to her profession.

Her journey has also been one of balancing acting with teaching, family and motherhood. In this conversation with Women’s Own, Dilara Zaman reflects on her long career, the challenges she faced, the changing entertainment landscape, women’s resilience and the values that have kept her connected to acting.

WO: You have spent more than five decades in acting. What inspired you to enter the profession, and what has kept you going for so long?

Dilara Zaman: When I first started acting, I never thought I would eventually take it up as a profession. At that time, in our middle-class Muslim society, acting was not widely accepted as a profession. I initially considered it something I enjoyed doing alongside my studies and other responsibilities.

After Independence, the situation gradually changed. More people entered the profession and began accepting acting as a career. I also eventually took it up professionally. But the main reason I have stayed for so long is love. Without love and a deep emotional connection to your work, it is difficult to continue for such a long time. I have always respected this profession and tried to remain committed to it.

WO: You have witnessed major changes in the entertainment industry. How do you view this transformation?

Dilara Zaman: The biggest changes have taken place in the medium of acting and the way audiences consume entertainment. When I started, there was a lot of struggle. It was almost like a battle. Today, acting as a profession is much more widely accepted.

Technology and Western influences have also brought significant changes. I believe we have to accept change positively and adapt ourselves to the times. That ability to adapt is one of the reasons we can continue moving forward.

WO: What were some of the biggest challenges in your journey?

Dilara Zaman: Every profession has obstacles, and my journey was no different. At the beginning, acting itself was not considered a profession, and many of my colleagues had to pursue other jobs alongside acting.

I never wanted to make those struggles bigger than they were. Every achievement requires sacrifice and hard work. I simply kept my goal clear and never moved away from it. Whatever obstacles came, I tried to face them with respect, patience and determination.

WO: You have played countless characters. Is there one role that remains closest to your heart?

Dilara Zaman: I consider every character a challenge. Just as a mother considers all her children equally, an actor should value every character. Each one is special in its own way.

Whenever I take on a role, my effort is to give myself completely to it-to understand its emotions, life and beliefs and present it as truthfully as possible. Whether the audience accepts the character or not is ultimately their decision. My responsibility is to give my best.

WO: What does success mean to you today?

Dilara Zaman: Success is a relative matter. One person may feel successful while another may work throughout life and still feel unsuccessful. Ultimately, the audience decides how successful an artist is.

For me, if a work has a meaningful purpose and contributes positively to people and society, there is success in that work. Fame or recognition alone cannot define true success.

WO: You balanced acting, teaching and family responsibilities. What did that experience teach you?

Dilara Zaman: I worked as a teacher alongside acting and also had responsibilities towards my family and children. As women, we often have to carry several responsibilities at the same time. It is not always possible to give everything exactly equal attention, so some adjustment and sacrifice are necessary.

I always tried to give importance and sincerity to whatever responsibility I was performing at that moment. Today, my greatest satisfaction is that my children have grown up to be good human beings. They love their country and understand their responsibilities towards it. As a mother, hearing others say that about my children is one of my greatest sources of pride.

WO: What advice would you give young women who want to build a career in acting?

Dilara Zaman: I do not want to give any specific advice because I have great respect for the young generation. Today, their opportunities to learn are far greater than ours were. Technology has opened the world to them. They can study acting at universities and receive professional training.

Ultimately, success depends on sincerity, hard work, dedication and determination. One must know one’s goal and remain committed to reaching it.

WO: What are your thoughts on women’s challenges today?

Dilara Zaman: Women certainly face challenges, but society’s attitude and acceptance have changed considerably. I do not think women face as many barriers as they once did.

If a woman has willpower, confidence and perseverance, she can overcome many obstacles. Challenges will always come, but a strong mind and clear goal can help her move forward.

WO: After such a long journey, what keeps you connected to Bangladesh and acting?
Dilara Zaman: I love this country and its people. I once went abroad to live near my daughters, but the love of the people, the audience, this soil and our rich cultural heritage drew me back.

I have always wanted my work to remain respectful to our people, culture and values. As long as I have the strength and ability to work, I want to continue acting. I want to remain on this journey and, until my last day, leave this world carrying the love of my audience with me.