Faruq Mahfuz Anam Biography: Age, Songs, Ex-Wife, Height, Net Worth, Ethnicity, Nationality

Faruq Mahfuz Anam, professionally known as James, is a Bangladeshi singer-songwriter, guitarist, and rock icon born on October 2, 1964.

He is widely celebrated as the pioneer of Bangla rock and the lead vocalist of the legendary band Nagar Baul.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Faruq Mahfuz Anam
• Stage Name: James (Nagar Baul)
• Born: October 2, 1964
• Age: 61 years old
• Birthplace: Naogaon, Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh
• Nationality: Bangladeshi
• Occupation: Singer-songwriter, guitarist, composer, playback singer
• Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
• Parents: Mojammel Haque, Jahanara Khatun
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Rothi
• Children: Jannat Anam, Jahaan Anam, Danesh Anam
• Relationship: Divorce
• Net Worth: $5 million

Early Life And Education

James was born on October 2, 1964, in Naogaon, Bangladesh, and he is 61 years old.

He was raised in a culturally aware Muslim household.

His father, Mojammel Haque, worked as a government education official, and his mother is Jahanara Khatun.

His ethnic background is Bengali and he practices Islam.

Information about his siblings is not publicly available.

He spent much of his childhood in Chittagong.

He attended primary and secondary schools in different districts including Chittagong and Sylhet before attending college in Nilphamari and Sirajganj.

From a young age, he fell deeply in love with music, often practicing guitar against his parents’ wishes, eventually choosing music over a traditional academic path.

Career

James began his musical journey in the late 1970s and rose to national prominence as the frontman of the rock band Feelings, later renamed Nagar Baul.

He brought a new wave of rock music to Bangladesh, blending blues, rock, psychedelic sounds, and poetic lyricism, which made him one of the most influential music figures in South Asia.

In the 1990s, he delivered landmark albums such as Station Road, Jail Theke Bolchi, and Nagar Baul, establishing him as the father of Bangla rock.

His deep voice, soulful guitar skills, and spiritual stage presence earned him the nickname “Guru”.

Beyond Bangladesh, James achieved international recognition by becoming a playback singer in Bollywood, contributing hit rock numbers to Indian films.

His songs in films like Gangster, Woh Lamhe, and Life in a Metro introduced him to millions of listeners outside Bangladesh.

James continues to perform at major concerts worldwide, release music, and inspire a new generation of Bangladeshi musicians.

His decades-long legacy makes him one of the most celebrated musicians in the history of Bangla music.

Awards and Nominations

• Bangladesh National Film Award – Best Male Playback Singer (2 times)

Social Media

• Instagram: @nagorbaul_officialfan
• Facebook: James Nagar Baul official

Personal Life

Bangladeshi singer-songwriter, guitarist James has been married twice.

His first marriage was to Rothi, and after their separation in 2002, he married Benazir Sazzad.

They later separated as well.

He is a father to three children, two daughters, Jannat and Jahaan, and a son, Danesh.

Regarding his height, James stands at 5 feet 9 inches tall which is approximately (175 cm).

Discography

Selected Music Albums

• Ononna
• Station Road
• Palabe Kothay
• Jail Theke Bolchi
• Dukhini Dukkho Korona
• Thik Achhe Bondhu
• Nagar Baul

Notable Film Songs

• Bheegi Bheegi (Bollywood)
• Alvida (Bollywood)
• Chalte Chalte (Bollywood)

Net Worth

James has an estimated net worth of around $5 million.

His income comes from music sales, live concerts across Bangladesh and internationally, playback singing for films, royalties, and other entertainment-related earnings.

Over four decades, he has built a strong brand, loyal fanbase, and a legacy that continues to generate revenue through performances and digital streaming.