Manik Bandopadhyay's timeless works: A mirror to our frailties
On Manik Bandopadhyay’s 116th birth anniversary, his unsparing literary vision jolt us out of complacency with today's injustices.
1d ago
National Rabindra Sangeet Festival kicks off, honours Kalim Sharafi and Sadi Mohammad
Celebrating the timeless melodies of Rabindra Sangeet, the National Rabindra Sangeet Festival inaugurated its 35th edition yesterday evening at the International Mother Language Institute auditorium in the capital.
1w ago
Gaza Holocaust and Press Freedom: Drik calls a spade, a spade
The event, inaugurating the photo exhibition "Gaza Holocaust: Killing the Truthtellers", delved deep into the nuances of Western media's portrayal of conflicts, particularly the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Moderated by renowned photojournalist Shahidul Alam, the discussion brought together voices echoing a common sentiment: the West's selective adherence to its proclaimed values.
2w ago
Not ‘fair’ at all: Why are fair-skinned actors cast for dark-skinned characters?
In an industry spotlighting talent and storytelling, recent controversies have cast a harsh light on a persistent issue: colourism in casting. The latest uproar emerged when photos of popular actress Sabila Nur surfaced, displaying her intentionally darkened complexion for an upcoming drama, "Bidisha", which is slated to be released today, on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Ironically, this deliberate alteration of the skin complex for the role contradicts the very essence of celebrating this day, sparking a crucial debate over the representation of skin complexion and societal standards.
2m ago
Easy OTT guide of 2024: Navigating our thriving streaming landscape
What sets OTT platforms apart is the flexibility they offer, allowing users to enjoy a customised watching experience on a range of devices. Unlike cable TV, which relies on a television set, OTT platforms provide the freedom to access content through smartphones, gaming consoles, laptops, and smart TVs. This flexibility has positioned OTT platforms as the go-to option for today's discerning audience.
3m ago
Art as a form of resistance: Palestinian artists stand against Israeli occupation
Palestinian art took on a more secular style from the late 19th century with issues related to “identity, memory, location, and resistance.” Artworks depicting Palestinian life also included a repertoire of “politically potent icons like the cactus and metaphors such as Palestine as the motherland.” The territory’s vibrant arts community was a testament to Palestinian resilience, but now it is losing voices central to its spirit.
3m ago
‘Barir Naam Shahana’: A riveting dive into resilience and rebellion
The narrative, based on actual events, unfolds in a small town in 1990s Bangladesh, where the film's protagonist, Dipa, portrayed with resilience and conviction by Aanon Siddiqua, grapples with the aftermath of a failed marriage, societal taboos, and the weight of family honour. Aanon’s acting prowess, coupled with the raw emotions portrayed throughout the runtime, is bound to leave the audience in awe.
3m ago
Bringing the ‘Dhamaka’ to Bangla rap: Shafayat opens up on his journey
Mohammad Shafayat Hossain, popular by his stage name Jalali Shafayat, stands as a prominent member of the acclaimed rap ensemble, Jalali Set, making him one of the most recognised rappers in the country. Whether in collaboration with Jalali Set or as a solo artiste, he consistently proved his prowess in delivering versatile verses and hit tracks, including “Dhamaka”, “Local Bus” in collaboration with the once-national sensation Momotaz Begum, and “Mainkar Chipay” alongside AvoidRafa.
4m ago
January 9, 2024
Music maestro Ustad Rashid Khan passes away at 55
Ustad Rashid Khan, a celebrated music maestro, succumbed to death this afternoon while fighting the battle with prostate cancer at a hospital in Calcutta, as confirmed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
January 6, 2024
I am almost immune to personal attacks: Rakin Absar
In the saturated and dynamic landscape of content creation, Rakin Absar is popular for his quirky style, raw humour and even speculations surrounding his sexuality. The content creator juggles various roles in the digital media industry as a comedian, host, marketer, and programme producer.
November 15, 2023
Is quoting psychotic characters a cry for help?
The iconic figures like Batman and the Joker mirror the complexities and duality of depression, offering a channel for individuals to communicate their pain, seek understanding, and, perhaps, find the help and support they so desperately need.
November 11, 2023
Coke Studio Bangla concert: Could music save a logistical nightmare?
I found myself amidst the swirl of lights and beats at the Army Stadium yesterday, attending the highly-anticipated, “Coke Studio Bangla Live 2.0”. The air, however, was thick with overcrowdedness and controversy, making my overall experience a blend of musical highs and critical lows.
November 5, 2023
Shaping the digital realm: Content creators take the industry forward
Content creation in the digital age is a realm where imagination knows no bounds.
November 3, 2023
A milestone of 500 for Apple Mahmud Emil
Apple Mahmud Emil made his debut in the world of TV dramas with the drama "Happiness Is", starring John kabir, Nusrat Imrose Tisha, where he worked on the background music and the original soundtrack. This was the first stepping stone in a journey that would see him become an ever-engaging figure in the industry.
October 11, 2023
The journey of street art in Bangladesh
Street art's journey is a global phenomenon that has transformed from its roots as an act of vandalism into a respected and influential art movement. In Bangladesh, this evolution has taken various forms, reflecting the changing socio-political landscape and the artistic expressions of its people.
October 8, 2023
Level Five’s ‘Semicolon’ is an urge to embrace life
The choice of title, "Semicolon", carries profound symbolism. A semicolon represents the continuation of someone's life despite facing adversity—it symbolises strength in the midst of a storm. In the context of mental health, it serves as an affirmation of solidarity against a myriad of challenges.
October 1, 2023
Xefer remastered
Xefer first broke into the scene with her soulful covers, capturing hearts with her deep melodic voice. Over the years, she not only continued her musical journey but also emerged as a style and youth icon.
September 5, 2023
The world of Asian influencer farms: A dystopian reality
Few people in the Western world have heard of Ruhan, but the Chinese company has emerged as one of several ‘influencer incubators’, transforming the face of e-commerce in the country. Occupying a grey high-rise in a drab part of industrial Hangzhou, the operation can be seen as the gears that keep online influencers churning out content during hectic eight-hour daily shifts.
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