Dr. Shelly Nuruzzaman, a former scientist turned entrepreneur, has achieved remarkable success with her venture, BANG! Curry. Starting with just a modest investment of £650, her passion for Bangladeshi cuisine has led to the creation of a thriving business that now serves over 250,000 customers and is stocked in major retailers like Waitrose and HelloFresh.
After obtaining her doctorate in Inertial Confinement Fusion from Imperial College London, Dr. Nuruzzaman worked in London’s financial sector before taking a break from her career to focus on her family. In 2014, she decided to combine her culinary skills with her Bangladeshi heritage and launched BANG! Curry with the support of her husband, Mark.
Initially, Dr. Nuruzzaman invested £650 to start her business, offering cooking classes and selling her products at local food markets. Drawing on her experience in preparing Bangladeshi dishes, she spent nearly a year perfecting her recipes to create curry kits that would allow customers to enjoy authentic flavors at home.
By 2019, BANG! Curry had expanded its reach through online sales, providing customers with easy-to-follow meal kits that simplify the cooking process. With a focus on spice blends rather than pre-made sauces, the kits cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
Dr. Nuruzzaman’s dedication to providing a faster, healthier alternative to takeaway curries has resonated with consumers, leading to the brand’s widespread success. The convenience and authenticity of BANG! Curry have earned it a place in major platforms like Waitrose and HelloFresh, making it a household name for those looking to enjoy homemade curry without the hassle.
In recognition of her culinary expertise and entrepreneurial achievements, Dr. Nuruzzaman has been nominated as one of the Top 10 chefs from Bangladesh. She attributes the success of BANG! Curry to her commitment to authenticity and bringing people closer to the joy of cooking.
Dr. Nuruzzaman’s journey from scientist to CEO serves as an inspiring example of how passion and perseverance can turn a small investment into a flourishing business. Her legacy with BANG! Curry highlights the power of following one’s dreams and creating something truly special from a simple idea.