Bangladeshi actor Shanto Khan and his father, Selim Khan, a producer-director, tragically lost their lives in a violent mob attack during protests in Chandpur on Monday night.

The father-son duo had fled their village seeking safety in Farakkabad Bazar of Belia Union, Bangladesh. However, they were caught and lynched by an enraged mob, as reported by Times of India.

The news has sent shockwaves through the Bengali and Kolkata film industries, where colleagues remembered Shanto Khan's compassionate and nurturing nature. Actor Rajatabha Dutta, who worked with Shanto in the 2022 Bangladeshi film "Bikkhov (Resentment)," expressed his disbelief and sorrow. "I was stunned to hear that he and his father were killed. We don't know the circumstances, but it's heartbreaking to lose them. Artists like us thrive on creativity and yearn for peace and brotherhood," Dutta told PTI.

He recounted Shanto's kindness during their film shoot in Chandpur, saying, "He personally took care of my needs, even at the hotel. It's tragic that he had to die when his career was just taking off."

Shanto Khan debuted in Bengali cinema with "Prem Chor" in 2019 and starred in "Piya Re" alongside actress Kaushani Mukhopadhyay in 2021. His recent works include "Bubujaan" in 2023 and "Anto Nagar" in 2024. Mukhopadhyay, who worked closely with Shanto, shared her grief, recalling his hospitality during their shoots in Chandpur and Dhaka. "I received the disturbing news late Monday night and have been distressed ever since," she said.

Filmmaker Raj Chakraborty condemned the violence, stating, "Any death, whether of a student, policeman, actor, producer, or political activist, is shocking. We all have fond memories of working in Bangladesh."

Producer-director Parambrata Chatterjee, who had collaborated on several projects in Bangladesh, expressed his dismay over the vandalism and killings. He emphasized the importance of peace and respect for all.

Selim Khan, known for his contributions to Bangladeshi cinema, owned a prominent production house and produced notable films like "Tungi Parar Miya Bhai" and "Commando." He was also a former leader of the Awami League.

The loss of Shanto and Selim Khan is a significant blow to the Bangladeshi film industry and highlights the urgent need for peace and security in the region.

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