2024 has been marked by numerous ups and downs, with the political climate notably impacting the showbiz industry. Yet, despite the challenges, the industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and transformation, offering a glimpse of promising changes ahead.

Let's delve into the stories of some outstanding young individuals who have made a lasting impression on the showbiz industry this year.

Farrukh Ahmed Rehan

This year, Vicky Zahed's web-series "Ararat" premiered in February. Despite its stellar cast, the spotlight was firmly stolen by the young and talented Farrukh Ahmed Rehan. This artiste's acting debut in this series captivated audiences with his compelling portrayal of the devil, earning widespread acclaim and even going viral on social media.

Rehan, who began his career as a ramp model, also appeared in Mizanur Rahman Aryan's drama "Jugol", sharing the screen with Naznin Niha. Additionally, he starred in the drama "Mayay Joriye Rekho", directed by Shah Mohammad Rakib, alongside Samira Khan Mahi. With just a handful of projects under his belt, Rehan has already made a significant impact on the industry.

Nidra Dey Neha

Beginning her career as a contestant in "Miss Universe 2020", Nidra Dey Neha has had a standout year in 2024, marking her debut on the silver screen. She gained recognition for her role in Kushum Shikder's directorial debut, "Shoroter Joba". Having first ventured into acting with the Chorki original web-film "Antonagar", directed by Goutam Koiri, she continues to build her portfolio. Neha is also set to appear in Fakhrul Arefeen Khan's government-funded film "Neel Jochona", playing the younger sister of celebrated West Bengal actress Paoli Dam.

Malaika Chowdhury

This year saw the debut of Malaika Chowdhury, the younger sister of renowned actress Mehazabien Chowdhury. Malaika began her journey with a television commercial directed by Adnan Al Rajeev, capturing audience attention both on and off social media. Her acting debut came in Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Raz's drama "Shondhikhon", where she shared the screen with Farhan Ahmed Jovan. With her natural charm and promising talent, Malaika has quickly made an impression in the industry.

Prantar Dastider

The talented Prantar Dastider made his silver screen debut in Mostofa Sarwar Farooki's latest film, "840". Although he first appeared onscreen last year in the Chorki original web-film "Antonagar", his performance in "840" secured significant acclaim. Sharing the screen with esteemed actors such as Fazlur Rahman Babu and Nasir Uddin Khan, Prantar held his own and carved out a space for himself. This promising young actor undoubtedly has a bright future ahead.

Shahjahan Shamrat

Shankha Dasgupta's debut silver screen project, "Priyo Maloti", featuring Mehazabien Chowdhury in the titular role, has brought another exceptional talent to the forefront. Shahjahan Shamrat delivers a standout performance as Razzak, a deeply loyal and empathetic friend who selflessly sacrifices everything for his friend and their family. His nuanced portrayal captures the character's emotional depth and moral strength, earning him well-deserved acclaim.

Shamrat's impressive range has also been evident in his performances in Nurul Alam Atique's "Laal Moroger Jhuti" (2021) and Amitabh Reza Chowdhury's Hoichoi web-series "Bodh" (2022), further establishing him as a versatile and compelling actor to watch.

Asif Islam

A promising young filmmaker, Asif Islam has made a remarkable impact with his debut film "Nirvana". The silent black-and-white film, produced on a limited budget, has garnered multiple awards, including the Special Jury Award at the 17th Eurasia International Film Festival in Kazakhstan and the Jury Prize at the Moscow International Film Festival. His direction, which relies entirely on visual storytelling, captivated audiences worldwide taking Bangladeshi cinema to the international stage. By exploring profound themes such as grief, loss, and self-discovery, he has demonstrated immense talent, positioning himself as one of the most exciting new voices in cinema.

Hannan and Shezan

Rap emerged as a powerful tool of rebellion and a platform to speak out against the injustices of the former fascist regime. The songs of rappers Hannan and Shezan served as a catalyst for youth, inspiring unity and spreading the call for reform. Hannan's track "Awaaz Utha Bangladesh" and Shezan's "Kotha Ko" gained millions of views on YouTube, resonating widely with the public. However, their rap came at great personal risk—Hannan was arrested, while Shezan was forced into hiding to evade arrest. Despite the dangers, these brave rappers persevered, using their music to become the voice of the nation.

Firoze Jong

Firoze Jong was on fire this year, with their song "Half Glass Carew" trending on YouTube for quite a while. Their upbeat music and engaging lyrics have fans hooked. They cater to a specific audience, primarily the urban middle-class Gen-Z population, who particularly relate to the lyrics in one way or another. Fans not only vibe with their cool, funky music but also go into a frenzy during shows, singing along with the band and dancing their hearts out to the joyful, groovy beats. Their other songs, like "Beatles" and "Ong Bong Chhong", are also popular among the youth.

Parsha Mahjabeen

A song that was much loved during the student movement was Parsa's song "Cholo Bhule Jai", which she personally wrote, composed, and performed online.  Accompanied by her ukulele, Parsa's heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices of those who lost their lives was widely praised, especially by Farzana Wahid Shayan. Parsa is now gearing up for the official studio release of "Cholo Bhule Jai" in collaboration with Raef Al Hasan Rafa. In addition to her musical talent, Parsa has explored acting, appearing in dramas like "Loveline" and "Prothom Bhalobasha". She is also set to make her web-film debut alongside Pritom Hasan and Tanjin Tisha in Chorki's "Ghumpori".

Debosrie Antara

Debosrie Antara made a smashing debut in Dhallywood with "Laage Ura Dhura" from "Toofan", shattering YouTube records this year. Her rich, deep voice brought a unique flavour to the item song, with both children and adults playing it on a loop. This year, she also teamed up with Habib Wahid for "Mon Bojhena". Moreover, Antara's voice has become a staple in jingles for major brands like Robi, Lux, Apex, Rin, Unilever, and Sunsilk, among others.

Kaarina Kaiser

Kaarina Kaiser's entry into the silver screen may have happened by chance, but the young comedian won hearts with her heartfelt performance as Syra in "36-24-36". Known for her comedic skits that leave audiences in stitches, Kaarina took on a more subdued role in the film, portraying a reserved and self-aware girl who discovers self-love through various circumstances. Her rising popularity this year highlights her potential for a successful career in showbiz.

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