Summary:
- Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is reviving his 2007 political satire 420 as a web series titled 840, reflecting the increasing absurdities of Bangladeshi politics.
- Farooki announced the sequel via a Facebook reel, emphasizing how the political landscape has grown more farcical over the past 16 years.
- The original 420, starring Mosharraf Karim, was a cultural sensation but was pulled off air due to its sharp critique of politics; 840 aims to reach a modern audience through digital platforms.
- Nasir Uddin Khan is rumored to play a central role in 840, which will explore the antics of high-ranking officials, continuing Farooki’s tradition of satirical storytelling.
Celebrated Bangladeshi filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is set to revive his iconic political satire 420 with a new web series titled 840, marking its return 16 years after the original captivated audiences. Farooki announced the project through a Facebook reel, showcasing a street scene from Rajshahi, while hinting at its sharp critique of the evolving political landscape in Bangladesh.
The original 420, which aired in 2007, became a cultural phenomenon for its incisive commentary on the absurdities of Bangladeshi politics. Starring Mosharraf Karim, the series quickly gained popularity but was eventually pulled from the airwaves due to its biting critique of the political environment. Reflecting on the sequel, Farooki stated, “Bangladesh has always been fertile ground for political satire. That’s why we created ‘420’ in 2007. But the level of political absurdity has since surpassed everything, so we’re coming back with ‘840’.”
Unlike its predecessor, 840 will debut as a web series, leveraging modern digital platforms to reach a broader audience. Reports suggest that the series will explore the antics of high-ranking government officials, with Nasir Uddin Khan rumored to take on a central role. In another social media post, Farooki drew parallels between the two productions, noting their shared context of being created during times of interim governments. He remarked, “I made ‘420’ during the interim government, and now, again during such times, I’ve made something mischievous. It’s strange how history repeats itself.”
Farooki’s reputation as a trailblazer in Bangladeshi cinema and television adds to the anticipation surrounding 840. Known for works like Third Person Singular Number, Television, and Saturday Afternoon, he has consistently pushed boundaries with his storytelling and social commentary. His appointment as an adviser to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Cultural Affairs in November 2024 further underscores his influence in the cultural sphere.
The revival of 420 as 840 not only reflects Farooki’s enduring relevance but also highlights his commitment to holding a mirror to society through satire. As fans eagerly await this modern take on political absurdities, 840 promises to be both a nostalgic return and a timely critique of contemporary politics in Bangladesh.
Source: The Daily Star
