Federation of Film Societies of Bangladesh in association with Bangladesh Short Film Forum and Bangladesh Documentary Council arranged a daylong memorial programme on August 20 for the recently deceased filmmaker Tareque Masud and cinematographer-journalist Mishuk Munier. The programme was held at the Shawkat Osman Auditorium, Central Public Library in Dhaka. Screening of Masud’s films and a meeting were highlights of the programme.
Emceed by independent filmmaker and teacher Manzar-e Hasin Murad, the memorial meeting featured reminiscence on Masud and Munier by noted personalities.
Speaking on Masud’s dedication to and love for the country, filmmaker Tanvir Mokammel said, “Many go abroad but how many of them collect apparently neglected footage from a cellar and turn them into an unforgettable film (‘Muktir Gaan’)?”
“Masud not only made ‘Muktir Gaan’, but also travelled across the land and showed it to his countrymen,” added Mokammel.
Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and art connoisseur Mijarul Quayes talked about Masud’s recognition overseas. He also recalled his early days with Masud, during the making of “Adam Surat” and “Muktir Gaan”. Quayes termed Mishuk Munier’s contribution to the country as “invaluable.”
Along with many others, filmmaker Morshedul Islam and Tareque Masud were the students of the first film appreciation course organised by Bangladesh Film Archive. Led by the late filmmaker Alamgir Kabir, the course also produced filmmakers such as Tanvir Mokammel. Islam and Masud also played key roles in forming Bangladesh Short Film Forum.
Recalling those days with Masud, Islam said, “Masud and I often argued about things such as filmmaking and film-activism. He used to tell me that I am concentrating on organisational activities more than filmmaking. I used to tell him that both are important.” “What Masud did to form the Short Film Forum was unparalleled,” he added.
Filmmaker and theatre personality Nasiruddin Yousuff also reminisced on Masud and Munier. Calling both of them “like my younger brothers”, Yousuff said, “It is very difficult to say something at a programme which is being held to honour people who have left prematurely.” Yousuff also talked about Masud and Munier’s love for theatre.
Three of Masud’s films — “Noroshundor”, “Muktir Kotha” and “Runway” — were screened throughout the day. The proceeds from the screenings will be given to the families of the three others, who died with Masud and Munier.
-With The Daily Star input
