With the web film 'Tomar Jonno Mon', director Shihab Shaheen has crafted yet another bittersweet and relatable love story—this time featuring the acclaimed pair of Yash Rohan and Tanjim Saiyara Totini. The director, known for his mastery in subverting audience expectations, speaks to The Daily Star about the project, his upcoming work, and more.

How did you come up with the concept of 'Tomar Jonno Mon'?

I had this image in mind of two people sitting morosely beside a coffin on a pickup truck. It stayed with me for a long time, and I had been waiting for the right opportunity to bring it to the screen.

Was the pairing of Yash and Totini your first choice to lead the web film?

I don't develop a concept with any specific actors in mind—I focus solely on the story. That being said, I truly applaud Yash and Totini for bringing the characters of Piu and Raonak Hazari to life. It was a challenging task, especially considering the semi-rural setting and dialect.

Rising actor Arefin Zilani, in my opinion, was a standout in the film. How did you come up with his character?

(Laughs) I have to give partial credit to Chorki for that discovery. Zilani is extremely hard-working and made that comic relief character memorable through his own talent. I wanted to shed light on hypocritical people—those who think highly of themselves but, in reality, never extend a helping hand to others.

Which of your projects are next in line for release?

"Myself Allen Swapan 3" and "Golam Mamun 2" will be released very soon!

I'll give you the floor to say anything you'd like.

I just want to tell the audience that these are truly trying times. It has become increasingly difficult to enjoy—or even produce—any form of entertainment or art. So, I ask everyone to have faith in us and allow us to continue our work.