Kolkata: The film community in Kolkata has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic deaths of Bangladeshi actor Shanto Khan and his father, Selim Khan, a prominent film producer. The two were lynched during the recent unrest in Bangladesh.
Shanto Khan, who made his debut in 2019 with the film Prem Chor, was known for his dedication and respectful nature on set. Actor Rajatabha Dutta, who worked with Shanto on the 2022 Bangladeshi film Bikkhov, recalled the young actor’s attentiveness and professionalism, expressing his disbelief and sadness at the loss.
Kaushani Mukhopadhyay, another actor who starred opposite Shanto in Piya Re, shared her distress over the news, reminiscing about the warm hospitality Shanto extended to her and other Indian actors during their time in Bangladesh. She emphasized Shanto’s ambition and the respect he showed toward his colleagues.
The news has left many in the film industry, including director Raj Chakraborty and actor-director Parambrata Chatterjee, deeply saddened. Chakraborty highlighted the tragedy of losing lives amidst such unrest, while Chatterjee condemned the violence and destruction that have accompanied the turmoil in Bangladesh.
According to reports, Shanto Khan and his father were targeted during the unrest in Chandpur. Selim Khan, who had previously been a leader in the Awami League, had produced several notable Bangladeshi films, including Tungi Parar Miya Bhai and Commando. The ongoing violence in Bangladesh has been particularly intense against supporters of the Awami League, which recently saw its leader, Sheikh Hasina, resign from her position as Prime Minister.
This tragic incident has sent ripples of grief and concern through the Kolkata film industry, with many hoping for a return to peace and stability In bangladesh.
