Veteran Bangladeshi actress Shabnam is set to receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bashir Ahmed Sammanona 2026, recognising her remarkable contribution to the film industry.
The announcement has brought renewed attention to the legendary actress, whose long and successful career has left a lasting impression on audiences in Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The award ceremony will take place on November 18, 2026, marking the birth anniversary of legendary singer Bashir Ahmed. The event is scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM at the National Art Gallery of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Segunbagicha, Dhaka.
The Lifetime Achievement Award will recognise Shabnam's outstanding contribution to cinema and her enduring legacy as one of the most respected actresses in the region. The Bashir Ahmed Sammanona was introduced in 2019 by the late singer's children, singers Humaira Bashir and Raja Bashir. Organised by Sargam Sound System, the initiative aims to preserve Bashir Ahmed's musical legacy and introduce his work to younger generations.
The awards were presented annually from 2019 to 2022. After a three-year break, the programme is returning in 2026 with renewed enthusiasm.
Expressing her happiness about the recognition, Shabnam recalled her professional association with legendary singer Bashir Ahmed. She mentioned that Bashir Ahmed had sung several songs for films in which she acted, and many of those songs became popular among audiences. She also recalled meeting the singer several times in both Pakistan and Bangladesh. Shabnam said that receiving an award established in Bashir Ahmed's name feels especially meaningful because of their professional connection and shared memories.
The organisers, Humaira Bashir and Raja Bashir, expressed their happiness over the decision to honour the veteran actress. They described Shabnam as an inseparable part of Bangladesh's cinema history. They also highlighted the importance of recognising her contribution, comparing her place in Bangladeshi cinema to the significant place their father holds in the country's musical heritage. Their decision reflects the deep respect and admiration they have for the legendary actress.
Shabnam, whose birth name is Jharna Basak, is one of the most celebrated actresses associated with Bangladeshi and Pakistani cinema. She began her acting career in the 1960s and gradually established herself as a prominent star through her performances in Bengali and Urdu films. Her acting career extended across several decades, during which she appeared in numerous successful productions and worked with well-known directors and actors. Her popularity in Pakistan also brought her international recognition within the South Asian film industry.
Throughout her career, Shabnam appeared in many memorable films.
Some of her notable Bengali films include:
Harano Din
Nacher Putul
Ammajan
Shondhi
Shondeho
Karon
Shohodhormini
Shorto
Jogajog
Her performance in the film Ammajan remains especially memorable among Bangladeshi audiences. Even today, many film lovers remember her through this iconic character.
Shabnam also enjoyed tremendous success in Pakistani cinema, particularly in the Urdu film industry. Her performances earned her widespread appreciation and several prestigious awards. She received Pakistan's Nigar Award multiple times, becoming one of the most recognised actresses of her generation. Her success across two film industries makes her career an important part of South Asian cinema history.
The Bashir Ahmed Sammanona is named after the legendary singer Bashir Ahmed, whose songs remain popular among music lovers.
Some of his well-known songs include:
Onek Shadher Moyna Amar
Amake Porate Jodi Eto Lage Bhalo
Deko Na Amare Tumi
Ogo Priyotoma
Khuje Khuje Janam Gelo
Jare Jabi Jodi Ja
Sojoni Go Bhalobeshe Eto Jwala Keno Bolo Na
Through this award programme, his children aim to keep his artistic legacy alive and introduce his contribution to new generations.
Award Recipient: Actress Shabnam
Award Category: Lifetime Achievement Award
Event: Bashir Ahmed Sammanona 2026
Date: November 18, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: National Art Gallery, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Segunbagicha, Dhaka
Organisers: Humaira Bashir and Raja Bashir
Organising Organisation: Sargam Sound System
The Lifetime Achievement Award at Bashir Ahmed Sammanona 2026 is another meaningful recognition of Shabnam's remarkable contribution to cinema.
Her journey from the early days of acting to becoming one of the most respected actresses in South Asian cinema is a story of dedication, talent and artistic excellence.
The upcoming ceremony will celebrate not only her achievements but also the lasting connection between cinema and music.