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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bangladeshi film actor Ashraful Haque, known as Don, was arrested in connection with a murder case.
- The case relates to the 1996 death of popular 1990s film star Salman Shah.
- Don, who often played villainous roles opposite Shah, was sent to jail after a court appearance.
Dhaka, Bangladesh โ Ashraful Haque, a prominent Bangladeshi film actor widely known by his screen name Don, has been arrested in connection with a murder case filed over the death of 1990s film star Salman Shah. Don was apprehended at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport early Sunday morning as he was preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia.
Nearly three decades after Salman Shah's death, Don was brought before the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's Court in Dhaka. Journalists waited outside the lockup for hours before he was taken to a courtroom. He appeared in court wearing a dark shirt, blue jeans, and yellow sandals, maintaining a stern expression.
Don, who frequently portrayed villainous characters and often acted opposite Salman Shah, declined legal representation from a Supreme Court lawyer, stating his brothers were en route. State lawyer Omar Faruq Faruqi argued for Don to be sent to jail. Without legal representation present in the courtroom, Magistrate Md Jewel Rana ordered Don to be remanded in custody. He was initially held in the court lockup before being transferred to Dhaka Central Jail in Keraniganj.
Salman Shah, born Chowdhury Muhammad Shahriar Emon, rose to stardom in the 1990s, appearing in 27 films. His debut, "Keyamat Theke Keyamat" in 1993, alongside actress Moushumi, made him an instant sensation. While Salman became a romantic hero, Don established himself in supporting and villainous roles. The two actors shared the screen in at least 13 films, often embodying the hero-villain dynamic central to commercial Bangladeshi cinema.
Don went on to star in over 650 films throughout his career. Salman Shah's career was tragically cut short when he was found dead at his Dhaka residence on September 6, 1996, at the age of 25. His death shocked the nation and has remained a subject of enduring speculation and controversy.
Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.