Abul Hayat, the Ekushey Padak-winning actor, playwright, and director, celebrates 56 years of marriage to his wife, Shirin Hayat, today (February 4). Together, they have raised two daughters, Bipasha and Natasha, while Abul Hayat built a distinguished career across theatre, television, and film.
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Speaking to The Daily Star, the veteran artiste described the milestone as both surprising and affirming. “It feels incredible. Filled with so much happiness, so much love. We are doing very well. I hope we can continue like this for the rest of our lives,” he said. “Sometimes I think, ‘Wow, life really started just that other day!’ And yet 56 years have passed in the blink of an eye.”
Hayat reflected on life’s inevitable difficulties, noting that challenges do not spare anyone. “Life always has its share of sorrows, joys, crises, and struggles. Everyone faces them. But life moves on—and we’ve managed to live beautifully despite everything,” he said.
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The actor credited much of his personal and professional stability to his wife, Shirin. “Her contribution is immense. After marriage, I was working, acting, dedicating long hours to theatre and television. She held the family together. I would say ninety per cent of what I am today is because of her,” he said.
Hayat emphasised the practical support Shirin provided during his career. “She managed everything at home while I poured myself into acting. That support gave me the freedom to follow my passion. Raising our children, ensuring their education, and nurturing them—she did it all. Without her, my life in the arts would not have been possible.”
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Asked about the secret to a 56-year partnership, the prominent artiste said, “Faith, love, sacrifice, respect—that’s what keeps two people moving together. We never acted alone or made decisions without each other. Every choice was a shared one. That made life more beautiful.”
Hayat spoke of their approach to disagreements, noting that mutual discussion guided their decisions.
“We have never done anything without mutual agreement. We discuss everything together and make decisions as a pair. That’s what has made our life more beautiful,” he said.
Despite his long career, Hayat remains professionally active. He recently directed the play “Sokhina” and continues to act in theatre and television productions, maintaining a presence in the country’s cultural life.
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For Hayat, the intersection of family and profession is inseparable. His reflections underscore the role of partnership, shared responsibility, and sustained support in both personal and professional life. The longevity of his marriage and his continued contributions to Bangladeshi theatre and cinema position him as both a respected artist and a figure whose personal life mirrors the dedication, discipline, and balance required to sustain decades in the arts.
