Photo: Courtesy
In the vibrant world of pop culture, where superheroes come to life and comic book fantasies become reality, one name stands out in Bangladesh – Kazi M Noor. An avid pop culture fan, geek, comic book and action figure collector, and a seasoned cosplayer, Noor has not only carved a niche for himself but has also played a pivotal role in fostering the geek community in Bangladesh.
Since 2011, Kazi M Noor has been donning costumes, immersing himself in characters from various universes, and participating in cosplay events both locally and internationally. His passion has taken him to numerous countries, where he attends comic cons, meets like-minded geeks, and establishes lasting friendships. Recognizing the need for a platform to bring enthusiasts together, Noor co-founded several pop culture communities, including the Action Figure Association of Bangladesh (AFCAB), BD Cosplayers, and the Asian Cosplay Association.
The primary aim of these communities is to create a space for like-minded individuals to connect, share their passion, and celebrate the diverse world of pop culture. Moreover, Kazi M Noor has played a pivotal role in organizing some of the biggest pop culture gatherings in Bangladesh, such as Comic-Cons and Comic Fests, providing local enthusiasts with an opportunity to revel in their shared interests.
Not content with merely participating in events, Kazi Noor has taken his cosplaying skills to international stages, representing Bangladesh at various foreign comic cons since 2013. His dedication and talent reached new heights in 2015 when he secured the 1st runner-up position at the "Bangkok Comic-Con X Anime Festival Asia," making history as the first Bangladeshi cosplayer to participate in and be recognized at an on-stage cosplay competition.
In 2020, during the pandemic, DC organized an online comic con, DC Fandom, where Kazi Noor's cosplays were featured on the official website. This recognition highlighted not only his creative prowess but also the growing influence of Bangladeshi cosplayers on the international stage.
His achievements didn't stop there, Noor's Barbarian cosplay from the Diablo game series by the renowned game developer, Blizzard, caught the attention of the gaming community when it was shared on their social media. He became the first Bangladeshi cosplayer to be featured on such a massive platform, showcasing his talent to a global audience.
Not content with personal success, Kazi Noor has actively co-organized numerous pop culture festivals in schools, colleges, and universities. The Dhaka Geek Convention and DC Fandome Celebration 2021 are two of the most significant events that he co-organized with like-minded individuals, further contributing to the flourishing geek culture in Bangladesh.
In a country where pop culture has rapidly gained popularity, Kazi M Noor stands as a trailblazer, inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts and leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant tapestry of Bangladesh's geek scene. As he continues to break boundaries and promote the love of pop culture, the future looks bright for both Noor and the burgeoning community he has helped foster.
Messenger/Anjan/Alamin
