Anika Chowdhury
In Conversation with Novera Rahman
With a passion for alien and horror genres and a vision to entertain and inspire, Novera Rahman stands at the forefront of a new era of story-telling, ready to explore uncharted territories both as an actor and a producer. Her role in Rickshaw Girl made us adore her. But being the multifaceted person she is, the talented Novera Rahman doesn’t want to be recognized only as an actor. So, crossing the boundaries of the country, Rahman has flown to the UK to do something on her own with a degree in film and television production from the prestigious Royal Holloway, University of London.
Currently in the process of settling herself in the UK, the actor and producer is experiencing a whirlwind of activity. During a conversation with MWB, Novera Rahman revealed the various projects and endeavors that have occupied her time lately.
According to your IMDb profile, you made your first on-screen debut at four months old! Were you outgoing and expressive as a child, then?
It is a very fun story. My mother was doing a drama titled Dure Kothao and I remember that I was two years old. The production required a child artiste but at the last minute, there was a change of plans as the artiste was sick and could not make it. So, this is how I got the chance to act with my mother and surprisingly, did well.
My mother had to cry before the camera. I have been told that when I saw her crying, I reached out to touch her face and wipe her tears. Though I started acting when I was very young, I did not take it seriously back then. After I grew out of my childhood phase, I started to become self-aware. Still, I’m grateful for the unique start I had.
Frankly, I never wanted to become an actor. I wanted to be an archaeologist because I was obsessed with archaeology (I still am). I thought I would become someone like Indiana Jones. Then I grew up and realized it would not be a viable career.
Could you share with us what insights you gained from your mother’s experience as an actor? Where does your path diverge from hers?
My mother is still pretty active in the theatre arena, and she used to be in Aranyak Natyadal. I certainly learned a lot from her. I would watch her reciting theatre scripts in front of me and I absorbed the entire process – how she was memorizing the lines, charting the emotional path of the character and the overall lifestyle – just by watching her.
When I was younger, I tended to complain about it. But now, I realize how invaluable those lessons have been for me. And I grew up surrounded by great actors, so I learned from them as well.
I went to study economics in Canada but after three years, I realized that I didn’t want to pursue this course anymore. So, I came back to Bangladesh and then went to North South University (NSU) to finish my degree. I tried my best but I couldn’t concentrate. So, I left my studies. After that, I did a couple of fashion photoshoots and then I auditioned for Made in Bangladesh (2019) and got the part.
You’ve studied abroad in Canada and the UK. How has your international exposure shaped your perspective on the performing arts?
I always felt that the Bangladeshi actors are exceptionally talented but they are very underutilized. I think it is partly because of our production structure. So, when I went to the UK, the number of resources I was provided there was truly refreshing. I feel that in this way actors are a lot more supported and it is very comforting.
Theatre often provides a raw and intimate performance experience and you have previously worked in the theatre. Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your theatre work that has stayed with you?
When I was at NSU, I pursued two degrees simultaneously. One was economics and the other in theatre. Back then in the UK, I used to do theatre and it was a very fun experience. When I came back to Bangladesh, I also did a play, which was an adaptation of Lady Windermere’s Fan by Oscar Wilde.
The reaction I received from the audience has stayed with me. I think I saw someone cry after my performance because it was about a mother-daughter relationship. Surprisingly, this is the only moment I remember from that entire production.
What made you decide to pursue a career in producing?
An acting career is pretty unreliable, not just in Bangladesh but around the world. So, I chose to study film production. I primarily wanted to supplement my income; along with it, I wanted to learn about this industry.
I asked Amitabh bhai to let me learn producing in his company right after I finished Rickshaw Girl. And then, due to Covid-19, everything had shut down. So, I decided I was going to get a degree. So, I applied for a Master’s degree in the UK and went there to study.
How do you select your projects?
Recently, I completed two very small projects in the UK. I used to have this idea that I wouldn’t want to do something that I wouldn’t watch. I have let go of that idea and now, I am pivoting towards the projects that would make the audience happy. So, this is what I pick now. I want to produce for the mass market.
Playing the main role in Rickshaw Girl must have been a significant milestone. Could you share how this role challenged you and what you learned from the experience?
When I auditioned for the role, I was asked to paddle a rickshaw. But I couldn’t properly do it. So, I had to train so that I could gain the physical stamina needed to paddle a rickshaw. Even when the shooting started, I didn’t think I would have to paddle an actual rickshaw. But I had to, the role required me to do so.
It was a very unique experience. I did a little bit of painting during the audition. But I would like to mention that the original rickshaw painting was done by Solenan Art. I think the artist did an amazing job.
Did you receive words of wisdom from Amitabh Reza?
Amitabh Reza is incredibly funny and he really understands people. He allowed me to work on the character and trusted me. Perhaps this is why I was able to deliver a good performance because I felt confident about it. All in all, I had a great experience working with him.
What inspires you?
I am a student of art. So, paintings inspire me. I also feel inspired by watching other actors perform.
What are you currently reading?
I mostly read non-fiction and recently, I read an amazing book titled Encounters by Diana Psulka.
Looking forward, are there any specific genres or issues you are passionate about exploring in your future projects both as an actor and producer?
I love aliens and horror movies. So, I want to do more of that both as an actor and a producer.
