Abul Hayat and Shykh Seraj. Photo : Collected
Ekushey Padak and National Film Award-winning actor, playwright, and director Abul Hayat, and internationally renowned development journalist and media personality Shykh Seraj, share a birthday today.
Abul Hayat's illustrious career began with his role in ‘Oedipus’ in 1968, and since then, he has been a part of over a thousand television projects, showcasing his talent not only on screen but also in radio, theatre, and films.
On the special milestone of stepping into 80 years today, Abul Hayat expressed mixed emotions, saying, “My two daughters, Bipasha and Natasha, are not with me on this special day, which makes me a little sad. However, today is also my granddaughter Srisha’s birthday, so we, as a grandfather and granddaughter, plan to celebrate this day together with Shahed.”
He further added, “My wife, Shirin, usually makes my birthday memorable by bringing a cake the day before. Channel i has been organising star talks every year, and as I enter my 80s, this year’s birthday will be celebrated a little more special. I want to express my gratitude to my beloved audience, as it is their support that continues to inspire me in my acting career."
In celebration of his 80th birthday, Abul Hayat will participate in Channel I’s celebrity talk show ‘Taroka Kothon’, produced by Ananya Ruma.
Meanwhile, today also marks Shykh Seraj's 70th birthday. Born on September 7, 1954, in Chandpur district, Seraj holds a Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Dhaka. He has dedicated over four and a half decades to development journalism and has made significant contributions to the country’s socio-economic development, particularly in the farming sector.
Shykh Seraj has been honoured with Bangladesh’s two highest civilian awards, Swadhinata Puroshkar (Independence Award) in 2018 and Ekushey Padak in 1995. He has also received prestigious international and national awards, including the United Nations' ‘FAO A.H. Boerma Award’ (2008-2009) and the Gusi Peace Prize in the Philippines (2015).
His work is highly regarded not only by the people of Bangladesh but also by audiences worldwide. Shykh Seraj is the founder director and head of news at Channel I of Impress Telefilm Ltd.
In addition to his role as a regular host and director for Channel i's popular agricultural show, ‘Hridoye Mati O Manush’, and BTV’s agricultural show, ‘Krishi Dibanishi’, he is a regular contributor to renowned newspapers in the country.
TDM/SD
