Popular Bangladeshi actor Nusraat Faria, known for portraying Sheikh Hasina in the biopic Mujib: The Making of a Nation, has been arrested at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka while attempting to travel to Thailand.
According to reports, Faria’s arrest is linked to an attempted murder case filed during the anti-government protests in August 2024, which ultimately led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. The case was registered against 17 actors, including Faria, for their alleged involvement in an attack on a student in Vatara, Dhaka, during the protests.
Legal Proceedings and Police Statement
Authorities confirmed that Faria was detained at the immigration checkpoint based on an arrest warrant issued a few days ago. Assistant Commissioner of Police Shafiqul Islam stated that she was first taken to Vatara Police Station before being transferred to the Detective Branch (DB) office of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) for further questioning.
Background on Nusraat Faria and the Mujib Biopic
Faria gained widespread recognition for her role as Sheikh Hasina in Mujib: The Making of a Nation, a Bangladesh-India co-production released in 2023. The film, directed by Shyam Benegal, depicted the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and first president of Bangladesh.
Before her acting career, Faria worked as a radio jockey and television presenter. She made her film debut in 2015 with Aashiqui: True Love, a Bangladesh-India joint production, and has since starred in several Bengali films.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing their investigation into Faria’s alleged involvement in the anti-government protests and the attempted murder case. Legal experts suggest that her arrest could have broader implications for political and artistic freedom in Bangladesh.