"Freedom of Acting Means Teamwork" — Director Iffat Jahan Momo

Emerging director Iffat Jahan Momo brings a unique blend of social awareness, emotion, and realism to her projects. Her recent web fiction “Byathar Bagan” (The Garden of Pain), based on a story by Kinkar Ahsan, has been well received by audiences. In this interview with The Daily Tribunal, she opens up about the project, her directing philosophy, and her vision for future storytelling.

The Daily Tribunal: What message were you hoping to convey through “Byathar Bagan”?

Iffat Jahan Momo: The story teaches us that one setback in life doesn’t define our entire journey. Being betrayed once in love doesn’t mean love won’t find you again. Family, friends—these relationships are our greatest strength. With this work, I wanted to show that someone will come into your life who truly loves you, cares for you, and stands by you.

The Daily Tribunal: What was the biggest challenge in adapting Kinkar Ahsan’s story into a drama?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Honestly, it wasn’t too challenging. His storytelling is always simple and heartfelt. He speaks directly to the audience's emotions, which is his greatest strength.

The Daily Tribunal: Do you consider yourself a socially conscious filmmaker?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Absolutely. I believe it’s crucial for a filmmaker to be responsible. Our creations influence people’s subconscious. So, I always try to embed a message in my work. For instance, during this Eid, I made Is It Her Fault?, which highlights women’s safety and freedom.

The Daily Tribunal: When making a web fiction, what element do you prioritize the most—story, acting, or dialogue?

Iffat Jahan Momo: All three are equally important. A powerful story, compelling performances, and impactful dialogues together make a work memorable.

The Daily Tribunal: How was your experience working with Tausif Mahbub and Aisha Khan?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Wonderful! Tausif bhai deserves special mention. Even though he’s a star, he’s humble and professional. During a shoot in the kans grass field, his expensive shoes got ruined, yet he never once complained. That kind of dedication is admirable.

The Daily Tribunal: Do you personally select your cast, or rely on your team?

Iffat Jahan Momo: It’s a mix of both. I consider what the story needs and what the audience wants. We create content for viewers, but I also try to bring something new and refreshing based on the narrative.

The Daily Tribunal: As a director, how much creative freedom do you give to your actors?

Iffat Jahan Momo: As a director, I believe “freedom of acting” is actually teamwork. The more directors and actors collaborate as a team, the better the output.

The Daily Tribunal: What factors do you consider when selecting a story?

Iffat Jahan Momo: I look at the message, the realism, and how well it connects with the audience. If viewers can find themselves in the story, that’s the biggest success.

The Daily Tribunal: How do you make a story resonate with viewers—through visuals or emotion?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Both. If a work doesn’t touch the heart, it won’t last.

The Daily Tribunal: You often focus on love and emotional struggles. Is there a personal reason behind this?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Definitely. These stories come from my own experiences or those of people around me. The emotions are real, and that’s where the storytelling begins.

The Daily Tribunal: How has the audience responded to your works “Muntasir” and “Byathar Bagan”?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Both received great responses. But they can’t really be compared. Muntasir is a full-length film addressing male sexual harassment, while Byathar Bagan is a drama fiction. Despite the format differences, I’m grateful for the love from the audience.

The Daily Tribunal: Have you faced any criticism or misunderstandings regarding these works?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Not really. I haven’t faced any serious misunderstandings so far. The audience has always supported me.

The Daily Tribunal: What kind of stories are you interested in making in the future?

Iffat Jahan Momo: I plan to make commercial films. My goal is to release a feature film by 2026. Of course, I’ll continue working on dramas, short films, and advertisements alongside.

The Daily Tribunal: If there were no budget limitations, what kind of project would you create?

Iffat Jahan Momo: I would definitely make a large-scale, internationally styled film—one that combines story, technology, and craft to give audiences a truly new experience.

The Daily Tribunal: Who or what is your biggest inspiration as a filmmaker?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Myself. I come from a conservative family, with no one to help me enter this industry. My struggles and experiences are my true inspiration.

The Daily Tribunal: As a female director, what has your industry experience been like?

Iffat Jahan Momo: I don’t believe in gender discrimination. I don’t see directors as male or female. Everyone has to struggle. Nothing worthwhile comes without challenges.

The Daily Tribunal: What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers?

Iffat Jahan Momo: I don’t like giving advice. Today’s newcomers are smart. I believe in learning through experience—even through failure.

The Daily Tribunal: Do you believe a story can change society?

Iffat Jahan Momo: Absolutely. Stories are powerful. What people see influences how they think—and that’s the beginning of change.

The Daily Tribunal: While creating, what kind of emotional state do you find yourself in?

Iffat Jahan Momo: All directors are emotional. Our experiences, the people around us, love, pain—it all comes through in our work. We are constantly reborn through our stories.

To Iffat Jahan Momo, filmmaking is not just a profession—it is a soulful journey. A strong believer in teamwork, sincerity, and emotional truth, she continues to prove that with dedication and vision, even limitations can lead to greatness. Her upcoming ventures are sure to be met with eager anticipation.