The 2012 release of Bhalobasar Rong, recognized as the first digital cinema production in Bangladesh, launched the professional acting career of Sharmin Akter Nipa, professionally known as Mahiya Mahi. A prominent figure in the Dhallywood film industry, she established herself as a high-earning performer through a consistent series of commercial successes across the subsequent decade.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Born on October 27, 1993, in Mundumala, Tanore Upazila, she completed her secondary education at Uttara High School before attending Dhaka City College. Her film debut occurred alongside Bappy Chowdhury in Bhalobasar Rong. Following this initial reception, she appeared in four films in 2013, including PoraMon and Bhalobasha Aaj Kal, the latter being a collaboration with Shakib Khan that attained status as a superhit production.
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The year 2014 represented a significant period for her career trajectory, marked by the release of the crime thriller Agnee. Her performance in this project secured a Best Film Actress win at the Meril-Prothom Alo Awards. She continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in Dobir Saheber Songsar and the 1969 remake Onek Sadher Moyna. By 2015, she had expanded her reach into international collaborations and sequels, appearing in Romeo vs Juliet and Agnee 2.
Political Engagement and Legal Scrutiny
In 2024, she sought a political career by pursuing a nomination from the Awami League for the Chapai Nawabganj-2 constituency. Following the denial of this bid, she ran as an independent candidate for the Rajshahi-1 constituency, losing the January 7, 2024, election to Omor Faruk Chowdhury. Previously, in March 2023, she faced legal complications involving charges under the Digital Security Act following public criticisms of local law enforcement, though she was released on bail and the case was eventually dismissed.
Recent Career and Personal Transitions
Recent professional activities include a cameo as the mother of Shakib Khan’s character in the 2024 film Rajkumar. Regarding her private life, she was married to Mahmud Pervez Opu from 2016 until 2021. She later married Rakib Sarker, with whom she has a son. While she announced a divorce from Sarker in February 2024, she disclosed on social media in October 2025 that the legal dissolution of their marriage had not occurred.
Fast facts
- Born: 27 October 1993, Mundumala, Tanore Upazila
- Profession: Actor
- Education: Dhaka City College
- Debut Film: Bhalobasar Rong (2012)
- Religion: Islam
- Languages: Bangla
Questions readers ask
What was Mahiya Mahi's first film?
Her career began with the 2012 film Bhalobasar Rong.
Did she participate in the 2024 general election?
Yes, she ran as an independent candidate for the Rajshahi-1 constituency.
