The Kolkata film industry expressed shock and grief on Wednesday over the killing of Bangladeshi actor Shanto Khan and his father, producer Selim Khan, amid the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh. Both were lynched in Chandpur on Monday night, a tragic event that has left colleagues and friends in disbelief.
Shanto Khan, a promising actor who debuted with “Prem Chor” in 2019, had built a reputation for his roles in “Piya Re” (2021), “Bubujaan” (2023), and “Anto Nagar” (2024). His father, Selim Khan, a former leader of the Awami League and a renowned film producer, financed notable projects such as “Tungi Parar Miya Bhai” and “Commando.”
Popular Kolkata actor Rajatabha Dutta, who worked with Shanto in the 2022 Bangladeshi film “Bikkhov” (Resentment), expressed his sorrow and shock. “I was stunned after hearing the news that he and his father were killed. We don’t know the circumstances leading to their deaths. It saddens my heart to learn they were killed. Artists like us who thrive on art and creativity always yearn for peace, amity, and brotherhood,” Dutta said. He recalled Shanto’s respectful and cooperative nature on set, highlighting his attentiveness and care during their shoot in Chandpur.
Actress Kaushani Mukhopadhyay, who starred opposite Shanto in “Piya Re,” described her distress upon hearing the news late Monday night. She remembered Shanto’s hospitality and respect during their shoot in Chandpur and Dhaka, noting that he made her feel welcome despite being in a foreign land. “Since I was senior in the industry, Shanto was very respectful towards me and shared his ambition of making a significant impact in the industry,” Mukhopadhyay said. She expressed hope for a swift return to normalcy in Bangladesh.
Filmmaker Raj Chakraborty and actor-director Parambrata Chatterjee also expressed their condolences and horror at the killings. Chakraborty emphasized the shock and sadness felt by the film community and as a human being and Indian citizen. Chatterjee, who has worked on multiple projects in Bangladesh, condemned the violence and vandalism of statues of iconic figures during the unrest.
Media reports indicate that Selim Khan, who was expelled from the Awami League, faced attacks along with other supporters of the party. The political turmoil in Bangladesh has intensified following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading to increased violence and unrest.
The tragic deaths of Shanto Khan and his father underscore the instability and danger present in Bangladesh, impacting not only the political landscape but also the cultural and artistic communities.
