Shanta Islam honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award in Canada

Actress and National Film Award winner Shanta Islam has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) at an event held at the Don Valley Hotel and Suites in Toronto, Canada.

The actress, who has appeared in numerous television dramas and films, said the recognition was particularly meaningful as it was her first major honour outside Bangladesh.

Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, Shanta said, “I truly feel proud to receive this honour. I am grateful to the organisers. I would also like to express my gratitude and love to all the directors, producers, fellow artistes and journalists in my own country.”

She added, “We artistes work for the people. Alongside receiving people’s love, when an organisation or a state recognises our work, it gives us encouragement and a sense of fulfilment.”

Recalling her career, Shanta said she acted in numerous dramas for Bangladesh Television, worked in package dramas and performed in stage productions. She became involved in cultural activities while studying at Dhaka University and acted in several popular dramas, including ‘Rupnagar’. She also worked as a presenter for many years.

“Receiving this honour has brought back memories of the work I did throughout my life,” she said.

Shanta Islam is currently spending time in Canada with her only son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter, who live there.

“My son’s success gives me peace and fulfilment. My daughter-in-law is like another mother to me, and my granddaughter is my inspiration to keep living. I am doing very well with all of them around me,” she said.

She also said she had been meeting friends and well-wishers in Canada and enjoying her time there.

“I am having a wonderful time. I am especially enjoying spending lovely moments with my daughter-in-law. We go out and explore places on holidays,” she said.

Shanta added that her son and daughter-in-law were happy about her receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“My son is extremely happy that I have received this Lifetime Achievement Award. My daughter-in-law is happy too,” she said.

Acclaimed magician Jewel Aich also received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the same event.