Introduction
The Bangladeshi film industry is preparing for one of its most ambitious cinematic releases — Prince: Once Upon a Time in Dhaka (2026). At the center of this high-profile project stands Abu Hayat Mahmud, a director making his feature film debut after years of success in television and OTT productions.
Set for a worldwide theatrical release during Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, Prince marks a defining chapter in Mahmud’s career as he transitions from small-screen storytelling to large-scale cinematic direction.
Who is Abu Hayat Mahmud?
Abu Hayat Mahmud (born January 1, 1986) is a Bangladeshi director and writer known for his impactful storytelling in television dramas, web films, and OTT series.
Before entering mainstream cinema, he built a strong reputation for:
- Character-driven narratives
- Socially relevant themes
- High production value television content
- Genre versatility (crime, comedy, political satire)
His move to big-screen filmmaking is widely considered one of the most anticipated directorial transitions in Dhallywood.
Notable Works Before Prince
Before directing his debut feature film, Mahmud created several popular projects:
- Murder 90s (2023) – A retro-themed crime drama praised for its nostalgic tone.
- Swarnamanob 1 & 2 – A widely viewed series centered on gold smuggling.
- The Broker (2021) – A critically acclaimed TV movie focusing on layered character arcs.
- Shongshar Unlimited – A comedy project released on OTT platform Chorki.
These works established him as a technically strong director capable of balancing entertainment with substance.
Abu Hayat Mahmud and Prince (2026)
With Prince: Once Upon a Time in Dhaka, Mahmud steps into the world of grand-scale commercial cinema.
The film stars megastar Shakib Khan in a powerful lead role. According to production insights, Mahmud aims to present the superstar in a bold, larger-than-life urban character inspired by 1990s Dhaka.
Setting: 1990s Dhaka
The story unfolds in the underworld of 1990s Dhaka, blending:
- Crime
- Action
- Romance
- Family drama
Mahmud has described the project as an exploration of “a city where myths are born,” aiming to connect audiences from Gulistan to Gulshan.
International Production Scale
Under Mahmud’s direction, Prince has expanded into a multi-country production.
Filming locations include:
- Dhaka, Bangladesh – Authentic recreation of the 1990s urban atmosphere
- Sri Lanka – High-intensity action sequences
- Kolkata, India – Period-specific settings
- Hyderabad, India – Including shoots at Ramoji Film City for large-scale cinematic production design
This international approach positions Prince as one of the biggest Bangladeshi productions in recent years.
Collaboration & Writing Team
Abu Hayat Mahmud is also involved in the writing process of Prince, working alongside:
- Mezbah Uddin Sumon
- Mohamad Nazimutheen
Being both director and co-writer ensures stronger alignment between storytelling and visual execution.
Directorial Style & Vision
Mahmud’s signature style includes:
- Strong character arcs
- Emotional grounding even in commercial formats
- Technical precision in cinematography
- Social commentary layered within entertainment
His background in political satire and socially aware storytelling suggests that Prince may offer more than just action — potentially delivering a narrative with deeper thematic elements.
Quick Facts About Abu Hayat Mahmud
- Full Name: Abu Hayat Mahmud
- Born: January 1, 1986
- Profession: Director, Writer
- Feature Film Debut: Prince (2026)
- Industry: Dhallywood & OTT
Why Abu Hayat Mahmud is a Director to Watch in 2026
The release of Prince during Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 could redefine Abu Hayat Mahmud’s career trajectory. Transitioning from television excellence to big-screen spectacle is never easy — but early production insights suggest a technically ambitious and narratively layered film.
If successful, Prince may establish Mahmud as one of the leading commercial directors of the next generation in Bangladeshi cinema.
FAQ About Abu Hayat Mahmud
Abu Hayat Mahmud is a Bangladeshi director and writer known for his television dramas and OTT projects. He is making his feature film debut with Prince: Once Upon a Time in Dhaka (2026).
Yes. Prince: Once Upon a Time in Dhaka is his debut feature film as a cinema director after years of success in TV and web content.
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