Angel’s voice, fighter’s grit
A shy and introverted boy from Chattogram embarked on a journey to Dhaka, embracing a new chapter of self-discovery. Today, Zulfiker Noori Angel—known by his moniker Angel Noor—has become a name to watch out for in Bangladesh's entertainment industry. Noor is making waves as a singer-songwriter, composer, and actor, seamlessly blending his talents across multiple disciplines.
Noor first captured attention with his soulful cover songs, but it was his original release "Jodi Abar" last year that paved his place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi youth. "I never imagined my song would resonate so deeply with people. I sing from my heart, and perhaps that sincerity connects with my audience," he shared with The Daily Star.
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Noor's musical journey began unexpectedly while he was pursuing his studies in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at North South University. A member of the North South University Shangskritik Shongothon (NSUSS), he had no idea that his passion for music would soon take centre stage in his life.
"I am not a trained singer. I discovered my voice during my university years, and it was my friends who encouraged me," recalled the 26-year-old Noor, crediting his seniors from NSUSS.
With his unique curly hair and unconventional look, Noor soon found himself in front of the camera. Director Adnan Al Rajeev cast him in a television commercial, marking his on-screen debut. From there, he ventured into television and eventually landed roles in television projects, followed by the web series "Mobaroknama" and the silver screen venture "Boli".
His performance in "Boli" earned him widespread acclaim. The film, directed by Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury, not only impressed critics but also became Bangladesh's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. It won the New Currents category at the 28th Busan International Film Festival.
Noor shared how actors Mosharraf Karim ("Mobaroknama") and Nasir Uddin Khan ("Boli") influenced his acting career. "Working with them was a learning experience beyond just acting. Their approach to life and their expertise has helped me develop a deeper philosophy that helps me move forward in life," said Noor, who played Nasir Uddin Khan's son in "Boli".
Despite his rising fame, Noor's journey has been far from straightforward. Determined to be financially independent, he took up tuition jobs to support his education. It wasn't an easy journey, as the artiste lost his mother at a very young age. His uphill battle included facing his family's disapproval. "I grew up with my grandmother, who is probably my only unconditional supporter. The rest of them don't like the fact that I am in the showbiz industry. Many a time, I felt really alone and wanted to give up."
Thankfully, he did not—his talent has subsequently crossed the Bangladeshi border. His cover of "Ghodey Pe Sawaar" from the film "Qala" led to an opportunity in a film from Tamil Nadu. Additionally, his cover of "Pasoori" was recognised as the best fan-made cover from South Asia by Coke Studio Pakistan.
The rising star will be starring in four films this year—two Bangladeshi projects, including one directed by Tanveer Hossain Probal, and two Indian films, one from Tamil Nadu and another from Kolkata. "I have a significant fanbase in Kolkata, and that's how I was approached for these projects," he shared.
Beyond acting, he remains deeply engaged with music. His band, Angel Noor and Friends, is actively performing on-stage. Additionally, six of his compositions will be featured in upcoming television projects for Eid. His second original track, "Til", is set for release during Eid, followed by a full album post-festival.
Despite his growing fame, Angel Noor remains humble and philosophical about his success. "If I never get another acting offer, or if people stop listening to my music, I won't have any regrets. I never chased these things—they came to me naturally. I am simply going with the flow, letting life take me where it will," he said.
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