Promising faces for 2024: Stars rising through the ranks

As 2023 comes to a close, it's time to reflect on the promising faces who have left an undeniable mark on the entertainment industry. From the small screen to the music stage, these celebrities have captivated audiences and demonstrated their talent and resilience.

Let's take a closer look at some of the remarkable individuals who have marveled at showbiz this year.

Shashwta Datta

This year has proven to be a significant one for Shashwta Datta, marked by personal milestones such as marriage and professional achievements in audience-favorite productions like Closeup Ei Shomoyer Kache Ashar Golpo's "Shomoy Shob Jane", "Punormilone". Shashwta demonstrated his versatility by skillfully portraying diverse and layered characters, capturing the audience's attention effortlessly. Whether embodying the charming Rahat in "Shomoy Shob Jane" or taking on the role of the loyal and reliable Riad. He infused each character with a touch of his energy, endearing himself to the audience with his undeniable charm.

Afia Tabassum Borno

The scintillating Afia Tabassum Borno turned heads with her mesmerising performance, almost overshadowing Afran Nisho in Yasir Al Haq's web-series "Sharey Showlo" as the assertive PR executive Natasha. Her enchanting presence on screen leaves the audience eager to delve deeper into her character's story. Additionally, Borno played a pivotal role in Chorki's web-series "Mercules", portraying the lively Anamika, an extrovert who cherishes her friendships and embraces life to the fullest.

While Borno started off her career in showbiz with modelling, the actress is determined to show through her acting that she is here to stay.

Jonayed Bukdadi

Following "Networker Baire", Jonayed Bukdadi was on the cusp of attaining immense popularity when an unfortunate accident disrupted and transformed his life. Nevertheless, this year marked a remarkable turnaround for the artiste, as the actor took on a pivotal role in Vicky Zahed's multi-versal web-series, "Ami Ki Tumi", portraying a dual persona.

His depiction of the amiable Rahat in one universe, juxtaposed with the portrayal of a ruthless character in 'Sigma Bangladesh', constituted a stellar comeback in the realm of OTT after a long time.

Rafiul Quader Rubel

Despite facing a challenging year, character actor Rafiul Quader Rubel ensured that he left a lasting impression on people's hearts through his outstanding performances in this year's productions, namely "Guti", "Mohanagar 2", and "Myself Allen Swapan". Amidst the personal struggle of his daughter's cancer diagnosis, Rubel took on notable roles, portraying a manager in "Guti", an intimidating intelligence officer in "Mohanagar 2", and an atrocious drug dealer in "Myself Allen Swapan".

Keya Payel

The stunning Keya Payel maintains her television dominance this year, seamlessly transitioning from portraying the indomitable schoolgirl in "Moner Manush" to depicting the challenges faced by a lover in love with an expatriate in "Bidesh". With her sweet smile and charismatic performances, Keya Payel continues to captivate a dedicated following of 5 million admirers. This year, she has been featured in popular TV series, collectively amassing over five million views, including hits like "Sorry Sir" and "Pita Mata Shontan". Her consistent display of acting prowess on television solidifies her status as an artiste to watch out for.

Naznin Nahar Niha

Rising star Naznin Nahar Niha has captivated the audience with her performance in the Closeup romantic drama "Hridoye Hridoy". Under the direction of Mizanur Rahman Aryan, Niha shared the screen with Farhan Ahmed Jovan.

Niha's on-screen chemistry with Jovan has proven to be a winning formula, as the duo continued their collaboration in other successful productions, including "Love Semester" and "Tomake Chai". Audiences have been quick to embrace the fresh and dynamic energy that Niha brings to her roles, making her a familiar face in the industry.

The talented actress also showcased her versatility by starring in "Anuraag", alongside popular actor Tawsif Mahbub.

Ahmed Hasan Sunny

As the year comes to a close, Ahmed Hasan Sunny stands out as a promising star in the music industry, quickly rising to fame with his impressive vocal range and versatility. The emerging musician made waves earlier in the year when he shared the stage with the renowned singer Anjan Dutt at the concert, Anjan Dutt in Metropolis, held in September.

Several of Sunny's tracks have become recently popular amongst music enthusiasts, including "Amare Uraia Dio", "Shob Plastic Er Putul", "Anondo Bhoirobi", and "Shohorer Duita Gaan". In a significant milestone for his career, Sunny also launched his album, "Lutpaat" (Museum of Sadness), further establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music scene.

Beyond his personal achievements this year, the young artiste took on a meaningful challenge by organising the concert titled "To Gaza from Dhaka" – Artists Against Genocide in collaboration with fellow artist Morshed Mishu. The event aimed to show solidarity and support for Gaza, showcasing Sunny's commitment to using his art for meaningful causes.

Kaaktal

In a surprising turn of events, Kaaktaal captured the spotlight throughout the year without the aid of a robust marketing campaign. The band engaged audiences with their unique blend of creative lyrics and music, relying on the strength of their lyrics-based compositions and the captivating baritone vocal, ultimately making a distinctive mark on the musical landscape of the country.

Kaaktaal's ability to connect with listeners and stand out as the dark horse of the industry became evident as they continued to surprise and captivate music enthusiasts. The band, known for its consistent quality, launched a new album titled "KaaktaalRaw", Vol 4, which quickly gained popularity amongst fans.

Juboraj Shamim

Director Juboraj Shamim's film "Adim" has gained worldwide acclaim for its thought-provoking and unique concept, utilising actual underprivileged artistes from slums who have faced the adversities of poverty. The film has received praise from esteemed artistes such as Jaya Ahsan, Nasir Uddin Khan, Imtiaz Barshon, Ashna Habib Bhabna, and Matia Banu Shuku. Notably, "Adim" has not only earned recognition locally but has also been honoured at international film festivals. It secured prestigious awards, including the Silver Saint George (Special Jury Award) and Netpack Jury awards at the 44th Moscow International Film Festival.

Muza

Muza has successfully carved a niche for himself in the music industry, blending traditional folk with contemporary beats.

This year, he was featured on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York, the face of Spotify's "Desi Hits" category, as the first Bangladeshi musician. He has collaborated with several musicians, including Manu Medina for "Y Tú (Tumake)", Mumzy Stranger for "Beautiful" and Xefer for the popular hit song "Jhumka".