Shahjahan Shourov, a talented Bangladeshi screenwriter recently faced some questions in an one-on-one interview with DhaliwoodLife. His films have become huge successes. Currently, Shahjahan Sourav also works as a director and he has also achieved tremendous success there.
How did your writing career begin?
Shahjahan Shourov: I've always wanted to direct. I studied screen acting for that reason from 2007 to 2012. The time to start studying screenwriting seems to have come around in 2011. Then, upon request, Dipankar Dipon Dada taught me the one-act drama Terracottar Manush, audience stories, and hands-on serial all-rounders. In my opinion, it's crucial to have acting and writing skills in addition to directing.
Did you begin writing for films or plays first? What was the first work published?
Shahjahan Shourov: I began writing drama in 2011. Banglavision's cricket-themed drama serial "Allrounder" was the first to air.
When did the process of developing the film's narrative begin?
Shahjahan Shourov: My career as a screenwriter began with the film "Dhaka Attack". Dipan Dada was primarily involved in drama at the time. So I naturally became involved in Dada's first film. Of course, before that, we had collaborated on two more Dada's films. There was one called "Item Song" in it. Which was far ahead of what Anurag Kashyap (Indian film director) was supposed to deliver.
Which movie story did you write after the release of "Dhaka Attack"?
Shahjahan Shourov: Following the unexpected success of "Dhaka Attack," the stories of the films ShapLudu, Poran, Ittefaq, Girgiti, and Sapnabaazi were written one after the other.
When did you first get paid for your writing?
Shahjahan Shourov: For the first time, I received 3000 takas for writing an episode of the "Dorshoker Golpo" TV series. It happened in 2011.
How is writing compensated in the context of Bangladesh? How does it work as a profession?
Shahjahan Shourov: Until one is accepted, absurd amounts of compensation are paid, and frequently, no compensation is given at all. Some dishonest people run it in their own names and without giving the credit. As a profession, it is extremely difficult. I want to discourage people from entering this profession if they do not see the X factor in their writing; in that case, I recommend that they not enter this profession.
Are you currently working on any new films?
Shahjahan Shourov: I'm now working on two M. Raahim films, as well as one each for Asad Zaman and Sunny Sanwar bhai. In addition, I'm working on a web series, an web film by Mehedi Hasan, a web film by Baro Bhoot Production House, and a web film by Taifur Jahan Ashiq. Since I began directing (dramas), I have had to get 10–15 projects ready for Eid and Valentine's Day for both myself and others. The movie's title won't be revealed just yet.
