Humayun Kamrul Islam

Humayun Faridi passed his Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination from Islamia Government High School in Dhaka in 1968.

He then attended Chandpur Government College, where he successfully completed his Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) in 1970.

Faridi briefly studied organic chemistry at the University of Dhaka in 1970 before the Liberation War interrupted his academic pursuits.

Following the war, he enrolled at Jahangirnagar University, where he eventually earned his Master of Science degree in Economics.

Humayun Faridi's illustrious career began in the world of theatre, where he became a driving force behind the post-independence drama movement in Bangladesh. As a prominent member of the Dhaka Theatre, he delivered breathtaking performances in acclaimed stage plays such as Shakuntala, Kirtankhola, and Keramat Mangal. His dedication to the stage laid a robust foundation for his future endeavors in television and cinema.

In the early 1980s, Faridi successfully transitioned to television, making his debut in the drama Nil Nakshar Shandaney. However, it was his unforgettable portrayal of the cunning and ruthless character 'Kan Kata Ramjan' in the blockbuster series Songsoptok that catapulted him to national superstardom. His unparalleled ability to bring depth to antagonistic roles redefined the concept of the TV villain in Bangladesh.

Entering the mainstream film industry in the 1990s, Faridi brought a new level of sophistication and realism to Bangladeshi cinema. He debuted in the film Din-Mojur and quickly became one of the most sought-after actors of his generation. Unlike traditional actors, he effortlessly balanced critically acclaimed parallel cinema like Dahan and Joyjatra with highly commercial blockbusters.

His role as an abusive and sexist manager in the cult classic film Palabi Kothay is often cited as a masterclass in acting and character immersion. He continually pushed the boundaries of his craft, taking on diverse and challenging roles that showcased his incredible emotional range. In 2004, he received the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Actor for his profound performance in the film Matritwa.

Faridi continued to act in popular television dramas and movies until his health began to decline in the early 2010s. His final years were marked by a few select appearances in poignant dramas such as Doll's House and the film Meherjaan. Even after his passing, his acting style remains a textbook reference for aspiring actors across the country.

Humayun Faridi was born in the historic neighborhood of Narinda in Old Dhaka to parents ATM Nurul Islam and Begum Farida Islam. As the second of five siblings, he experienced a dynamic childhood, traveling to various districts due to his father's official assignments. During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, he bravely suspended his university studies to join the fight as an active freedom fighter.

Faridi's romantic life was marked by two significant marriages during his lifetime. In 1980, he married Nazmun Ara Begum Minu, and together they had a daughter named Shararat Islam Devyani. Following their divorce four years later, he married the immensely popular actress Suborna Mustafa, sharing a highly publicized relationship until their eventual separation in 2008.

Beyond his acting career, Faridi was known for his deeply intellectual nature and his strong bonds with fellow artists like dramatist Selim Al-Deen. He was a passionate reciter of poetry and frequently participated in cultural gatherings. Sadly, he battled chronic lung disease in his later years and passed away peacefully at his Dhanmondi residence on February 13, 2012.