TBT REPORT

Actor Tawsif  Mahbub. Though he remains busy with TV dramas throughout the year, he is now focusing on OTT platforms. He is appearing before audiences with different and challenging roles. Recently, the web series “Chokro-2” was released on iScreen. In this series, directed by Vicky Zahed, he appears in a terrifying form. He spoke with The Bangladesh Today about this series and various aspects of his acting.

How is the response to “Chokro 2”?

I was a bit nervous until its release. But after the release, things changed. People from home and abroad who have watched the series are sending their greetings. Many acquaintances are calling to express how much they liked it. I’m especially receiving a lot of calls from abroad. Some have even texted saying they watched both “Chokro” and “Chokro-2” together.

How challenging was the character?

Humayun or Mamun is the most difficult character I’ve played so far. While preparing for this role, I went through a lot of inner conflict. There are many styles of acting—one of them is staying in character even off-camera. You could say Humayun is a devil-like character. I was most conflicted about how to act off-camera. Eventually, I developed my own method and, following my notes, managed to perform the role in a way that satisfied the director.

How can audiences watch the series?

Viewers watched “Chokro” by paying 80 taka. Now the cost has been reduced. “Chokro-2” can be watched for just 25 taka. Those who make films know how difficult it is to bring audiences to cinemas and make them spend money. Viewers are now trusting me and willing to pay for content. That’s why I’m making this effort on OTT. I can say I’ve been successful here, and I hope even better things will come in the future.

You were seen with Tasnia Farin in “Chokro.” Did you miss her this time?

Whether Farin is in “Chokro-2” or not—viewers will understand if they look closely. It’s been kept as a twist for the audience. I don’t want to say more about it.

You are being seen less in TV dramas…

Yes. Because I’m working on larger-scale content, my involvement in dramas has decreased. Also, OTT projects have a different language and require long preparation. So even if I want to, I can’t give as much time to dramas as before. Now I choose projects based on the strength of the story, which is why the number has reduced.

Vicky Zahed had a great pairing with Afran Nisho, and now you’re in that place…

Look, Afran Nisho is a huge star. He has delivered amazing work on the small screen. It’s not possible to take his place. Since they are my seniors, I can learn from their experience and try to do good work. I’ve also had some good projects appreciated by audiences. Now good work is happening on OTT, and I want to keep contributing sincerely.

Is choosing diverse roles a personal effort?

Yes, I consciously try not to get stuck in similar roles. Every character offers something new to learn, so I try to find variety. I choose stories that I genuinely like, and I want to maintain that.

Returning to Season 5 of “Bachelor Point”…

The audience’s love forced me to return as Nehal in “Bachelor Point.” I was also waiting for the right time to come back. After returning, I’ve been overwhelmed by the audience’s love. I’m truly grateful to them.

When will we see you in films after TV and web projects?

When I was only doing TV dramas, people used to ask when I’d move to OTT. Now I’m working on OTT, and the audience has accepted me warmly there. Honestly, every actor wants to see themselves on the big screen, and I’m no exception. Even a year ago, I said I wasn’t ready for films. But now I feel mentally prepared. I’ve already had discussions about a few films, but I felt those stories weren’t right for me. If it’s in my destiny, it will definitely happen.