In the Retro-Futuristic World of Chicana Stardust
In the kaleidoscopic, retro-futuristic world of Chicana Stardust, viewers are transported to Planet Jaba—a world of civil war, glowing portals, and holographic transmissions. The visual spectacle is so captivating that most don’t pause to ask: Who created all this? Behind the surreal alien environments, color-shifting eyes, hologram characters, and cosmic landscapes is the quiet genius of Sk Monoar Nahid, a Bangladeshi VFX visionary now stepping into the Hollywood spotlight.
Created by Itamar Lilienthal and Benjamin Huerta, Chicana Stardust is more than a space telenovela. It’s a narrative of identity and cultural preservation for Mexican-American communities. But it’s Nahid’s VFX artistry that gives the film its cosmic punch. From crafting entire sci-fi worlds to transforming actors into believable alien personas, Nahid’s contribution was not just technical—it was transformative. His work elevated the storytelling into a fully immersive, emotional journey.
The Journey from Dhaka to Hollywood
What makes Nahid’s involvement even more extraordinary is his origin. With over 17 years of experience in the television broadcast industry, Sk Monoar Nahid has reshaped how news and entertainment look in Bangladesh. His career began in 2007 as a Junior Motion Graphics Designer at RTV, eventually leading to influential roles at Jamuna TV, Independent TV, and Channel 24. In each role, Nahid introduced innovations that are now standard in Bangladeshi broadcast media: real-time election result graphics, dynamic scrolling news tickers, AR-enhanced storytelling, and fully virtual studios. He became a household name behind the scenes, known for bringing visual excellence and futuristic technology to mainstream television.
Global Certifications and Recognition
In 2016, his skills were recognized globally when he earned the “Pro Viz Artist Designer” certification from Vizrt, the renowned Norwegian graphics software company. That same year, Adobe and Vizrt jointly honored him at the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) in the Netherlands—making him the first Bangladeshi graphics designer to receive this global distinction.
By 2025, Nahid’s influence had expanded across Asia. He received multiple international and national accolades, including the Asian Business Iconic Award (Nepal), Sher-e-Bangla Star Award (Bangladesh), Excellence in Success Award (Bangladesh), South Asia Cine Golden Star Award (Bangladesh), and Star Bangladesh Award (Bangladesh). These awards celebrate his leadership in broadcast graphics, visual effects innovation, and international impact in the field of creative media.
Judge in International Competition
In addition to his design achievements, Sk Monoar Nahid also served as a jury member in the international competition “Motion Graphics Contest 2025,” organized by Pathshala – South Asian Media Institute. With the theme “For a Better, Greener Earth,” this contest included participants from four countries. Nahid, along with a select panel, evaluated over a hundred submissions based on visual storytelling, environmental message, and technical creativity. His participation as a judge reflects his growing influence and leadership in shaping future talents in the motion graphics field.
Mentor, Entrepreneur, and Author
But Nahid is more than a designer—he is a mentor and educator. As a faculty member at Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, he teaches motion design, ethics, and visual storytelling. Many of his students now work for top-tier media houses in Bangladesh and abroad. He is also the founder and CEO of RudraFx, a visual production company operating in Bangladesh, Portugal, Dubai, and the United States. RudraFx provides real-time visual solutions for global clients across broadcast, education, and corporate sectors.
An accomplished author, Sk Monoar Nahid has published two books: Creatives in the Television Broadcast Industry—a practical guide for professionals and students in media design—and Guardians of Earth: Simple Steps to a Sustainable Future—a powerful call to environmental responsibility through everyday action. In 2025, Nahid launched the “I Am the Guardian of the Earth” campaign in his hometown of Khulna, mobilizing public awareness for climate action with media, T-shirts, quizzes, and open-air seminars. The campaign blended visual creativity with ecological purpose—a signature of his cross-disciplinary mindset.
From Planet Jaba to Global Recognition
So how did this pioneering figure from Bangladesh end up designing intergalactic VFX for a Mexican-American science fiction film?
“Visual storytelling knows no borders,” says Nahid. “Whether it’s an election map in Dhaka or a space battle over California, the goal is always the same—to make people feel something.”
With Chicana Stardust now receiving international attention, Sk Monoar Nahid’s name is no longer just respected in South Asia—it’s being recognized across the global entertainment industry. From television studios in Dhaka to cinematic universes in Los Angeles, Nahid’s visuals speak louder than words—and now, they’re being seen across galaxies.
