The 18th anniversary celebration of the Artist Journalist Foundation of Bangladesh (AJFB) was marked by a dazzling awards night — the AJFB Star Awards 2025 — held at the Krishibid Institution (KIB) auditorium in Dhaka. The event recognized outstanding contributions to film, television, music, and other branches of cultural expression, bringing together the brightest stars of the entertainment industry.
This year’s event saw dual honors in the Best Director category — awarded to Naznin Hasan Khan and Md. Fahad for their exceptional contributions to television drama. Additionally, Arpona Rani Rajbongshi was named Best Playwright, earning widespread appreciation for her impactful storytelling.
While accepting her award, Naznin Hasan Khan said, “Through direction, portraying the broader image of society and captivating audiences with a blend of emotions — joy and sorrow — is something I truly enjoy. Receiving the Best Director award at the AJFB Star Awards 2025 is an incredible honor. I dedicate this award to my most respected mentor, the beloved Humayun Ahmed Sir.”
Director Md. Fahad, also honored with the Best Director title, shared an emotional note: “I don’t create dramas for awards — but an award like this inspires a creator to go deeper, dream bigger, and work harder. I will continue trying to tell better stories that can spark change in our society.”
Arpona Rani Rajbongshi, known for her emotionally resonant and thoughtful scripts, accepted her award with grace and said, “This award isn’t mine alone. It belongs to the audience who believed in my stories, felt them, loved them. I’m forever thankful to my viewers — my greatest inspiration.”
The ceremony was graced by Tashik Ahmed, Head of Programming at ATN Bangla, as the chief guest, and legendary actor Ali Raj, who presented several of the evening’s top honors.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to veteran actor Ali Raj for his enduring contributions to cinema, while Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, Chairman of ATN Bangla and ATN News, received a Special Recognition Award for his role in the advancement of media and culture in Bangladesh.
Other recipients of the AJFB Star Awards 2025 included celebrated figures such as Nirob, DA Tayeb, Rashed Mamun Apu, Puja Cherry, Abdun Noor Sajal, Samira Khan Mahi, Ethun Babu, Asif Akbar, Ankhi Alamgir, Shiva Sanu, Belal Khan, and Gazi Rakayet, among others.
Awards were presented by a distinguished lineup including Ali Raj, Nirob Hossain, Md. Liaquat Ali (Joint Convener of JASAS), and Tashik Ahmed of ATN Bangla.
The night was more than a celebration — it was a tribute to passion, perseverance, and the powerful storytelling that continues to shape the cultural narrative of Bangladesh.
