Legendary actress Shabnam to receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Veteran actress Shabnam, whose remarkable contribution to Bangladeshi cinema has earned her a lasting place in the hearts of audiences, is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bashir Ahmed Honours 2026.

The award, named after legendary singer Bashir Ahmed, will recognise Shabnam’s outstanding contribution to the country's film industry and her enduring legacy as an actress.

The ceremony will be held on November 18, marking the birth anniversary of Bashir Ahmed, at the National Art Gallery Auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Segunbagicha, Dhaka. The programme is scheduled to begin at 4pm.

Launched in 2019, the Bashir Ahmed Honours aims to preserve the legacy and celebrate the musical contributions of the late singer while introducing his work to younger generations. The initiative was founded by his children, Homayra Bashir and Raja Bashir, and organised by Sargam Sound System.

The awards were presented annually from 2019 to 2022 before a three-year hiatus. This year's event marks the return of the prestigious recognition.

Expressing her delight at receiving the honour, Shabnam recalled her professional and personal connections with the legendary singer.

“Bashir Ahmed sang in several films in which I acted, and many of those songs became popular. I met him several times in both Pakistan and Bangladesh. I feel delighted to receive an award instituted in his name,” she said.

Homayra Bashir and Raja Bashir also expressed their excitement over the decision to honour Shabnam with the lifetime achievement award.

“Respected Shabnam Aunty is an inseparable part of our country's film industry. Just as it is impossible to write the history of Bangladeshi music without our father, it is equally impossible to document the history of Bangladeshi cinema without Shabnam Aunty,” they said in a joint statement.

They added that they were deeply delighted to present the award to the veteran actress and expressed gratitude to everyone supporting the event.

Bashir Ahmed remains one of the most celebrated voices in the region's music history. His timeless songs continue to enjoy widespread popularity among listeners.

Some of his best-known songs include Onek Shader Moyna Amar, Amake Porate Jodi Eto Lage Bhalo, Deko Na Amare Tumi, Ogo Priyotoma, Khuje Khuje Jonmo Gelo, Jare Jabi Jodi Ja and Sojoni Go Bhalobese Eto Jwala Keno Bolo Na.

Shabnam's recognition at this year's ceremony celebrates not only her distinguished career but also the enduring artistic legacy of two icons who helped shape the cultural landscape of Bangladesh.