Growing up Bangladeshi-American, I didn’t have much representation in the media, and for the longest time, it felt like we were invisible from the cultural conversation. So I feel extra warm and fuzzy when I see brown girls having their moment now, from the first Punjabi Victoria’s Secret angel Neelam Kaur Gill to KATSEYE’s Lara Raj rocking stages worldwide.

But here’s my hot take: Indian representation doesn’t capture the entire South Asian experience, and conflating the two erases distinct histories and cultures. Bangladesh, in particular, carries a horrific chapter that’s still denied by many today. During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, artists, intellectuals, and creators were specifically targeted and killed off in a systematic attempt to erase our culture entirely. When you understand that context, seeing Bangladeshi artists thrive today feels like more than representation.

So if you’ve been sleeping on Bangladeshi creatives, it’s time to wake up. And if you’re a Bangladeshi creative looking to feel seen, I hope this serves as your reminder that you’re not alone. We’re out here, and we’re thriving. Here are the Bangladeshi artists you absolutely need to follow right now.

Sukha Never Dies

Sukha is a Bangladeshi rapper, singer and designer who grew up in Saudi Arabia. Her art is often inspired by her experiences existing as an outlier.

Dameer

Dameer is the multi-genre heartthrob from Dhaka. He began his musical career making Indie songs. Now, he DJs and throws events influenced by Bengali classics ofc.

Fabliha

Fabliha is a writer based in New York City known for her vulnerability. She writes about faith, Bangladeshi history and girlhood angst.

Nova

Nova is a New York based model, actor, and film enthusiast. They are outspoken about body positivity and often draw from their Bangladeshi identity in their work.

Rajid

Rajid is the founder of DOST, a platform that uplifts South Asian music. He is a DJ, director, and can be found throwing epic parties in New York City, where he resides.

Shompa

Shompa is the New York City based chef and cookie CEO. Yup, she launched a cookie business with Bengali flavour inspo.

Aydha

Aydha is a Paris based global brand relations queen. She began her career in fashion as a digital creator and is a loud and proud Bengali.

Adrita

Adrita is the Dhaka based multidisciplinary artist, creative producer, and music collective Bhai Bhai co-founder. She blends Bangladeshi heritage with experimental design.

Pia

Pia is the Berlin based Bangladeshi model who mixes streetwear, Bengali pieces and can teach us all a lil something on taking mirror selfies. Keep a look out for her new jewellery brand launching soon.

Jai Wolf (Sajeeb)

Jai Wolf is an electronic artist who sells out massive concerts and throws raves at Indian restaurants with equal energy. With remixes from heavyweights like Melanie Martinez, Dirty South, Alesso, and Odesza, he’s proving he’s one to watch!

Next, check out these UAE based Black influencers you need to know about.