‘It is scary that people are still complacent’
Renowned TV actor of all times Afzal Hossain has been the role model for many emerging young artistes in the industry. When it comes to TV dramas of the 80’s, he was the most celebrated actor of his time. The seasoned actor-director was planning for his Eid ventures along with a documentary fiction ‘Lal Kakra’ based on the life of Bengali author Manik Bandopadhyay. All of this has come to a halt due to the coronavirus outbreak in the country. The actor talked to Prothom Alo about his daily life during ‘homestay’.
Q :
You haven’t been able to finish the shooting of ‘Lal Kakra’. Tell us about it.
The city part is done and we were about to check few options in the rural areas. It had to stop due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Q :
How cautious are you about this virus?
I am very cautious. I didn’t meet any of my neighbors in past 10 days, not even on the stairs. The main entrance of the apartment is locked. No guests are allowed. No one goes out unless it is urgently required.
Q :
How are your days at home?
It is not any holiday, rather it’s time for introspection. It is something we never imagined of. I was walking through the doorway the other day and suddenly felt I never looked at the things in my house properly. I have been living in this house for 25 years, yet know nothing except the bookshelf, the living room and the couch. Isn’t it strange?
Q :
We know you pain and you write. What about that?
In scattered way. No matter what we may say, we cannot really enjoy these times. The scariest part about coronavirus in the country is that people are still complacent. I am already fearing a major crisis ahead. I have seen in the news that people are hanging out in tea stalls, as if it’s a festival!
Q :
As an artiste, what is your message to the people?
I am worried about the country. We can protect our country if we the people stay aware and safe. Besides staying home, we have lot of other things to do. But the people are not aware of what is coming ahead, that’s what scares me the most.
*This piece, originally appeared in the print edition, has been rewritten in English by Farjana Liakat