Actor-turned-producer Jaya Ahsan, who was awarded a government grant of Tk60 lakh for her film project titled "Roid" during the 2020-21 fiscal year, announced that the film would proceed without government funding, under a new arrangement.
"Jaya Ahsan has expressed her intention not to continue with the film. She has refunded the money received in the initial payment," said the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Deputy Secretary Md Saiful Islam.
When questioned about the timing of the money's return, Saiful Islam said that along with the refunded initial payment, a letter was included with an invoice.
Mejbaur Rahman Sumon, who is directing the film, said, "The casting process, location selection, and even my own busy schedule have all contributed to delaying the commencement of the project. We received the grant two years ago, and the deadline for submitting the film has already passed. Many have faced criticism for not being able to complete and submit the movie on time. Neither Jaya nor I wish to face such criticism. Therefore, we decided to return the grant money. However, given the circumstances, we may require additional time to complete the film."