Mahiya Tabassum

The author is a writer and journalist. She is working as a sub-editor at The Daily Star. Recommend your must-read books at mahiya.t16@gmail.com.

Dismantling rural gender-based violence requires more than awareness

In rural areas, gender-based violence traps women in a cycle of abuse, fear, and systemic neglect.

2w ago

When digital space becomes a paradise for harassers

In the era of technology, gender-based violence too has taken a new form in the digital space in Bangladesh.

2w ago

Clean toilets: A ‘luxury’ Dhaka’s vulnerable cannot afford

Dhaka's claims to metropolitan status will remain incomplete while women bear the brunt of insufficient hygienic public toilets.

4w ago

A thespian's final bow

Masud Ali Khan, a towering figure in Bangladeshi performing arts, passed away yesterday at his home in the capital’s Green Road, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spans over seven decades of unparalleled artistic brilliance.

1m ago

Shilpakala Academy’s catalytic role against polarisation and extremism

BSA's initiatives in theatre, music, and visual arts have proven to be effective tools for bridging divides in Bangladesh's politically charged environment. The academy's diverse programming speaks to a wide range of Bangladeshis, although often failing to transcend party affiliations and ideological differences.

1m ago

Confronting the overlooked facets of child abuse

Child-on-child sexual abuse is a subset of the broader child sexual abuse epidemic that plagues Bangladesh.

2m ago

An evening with Jal: Of nostalgia, music, and reunion

Mumtaz spoke with palpable excitement about returning to Bangladesh. "We are going to perform in Bangladesh after over a decade," he said, his eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "All Jal fans are probably grown up now, like me," he added with a chuckle. "But still they remember all the songs, it's so overwhelming for us to come here again and receive such a heartwarming welcome."

2m ago

The never-ending fight for women’s clothing autonomy

The right to choose one's clothing without fear of harassment or assault is a fundamental aspect of personal freedom.

3m ago
May 19, 2024
May 19, 2024

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.

May 10, 2024
May 10, 2024

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.

May 7, 2024
May 7, 2024

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.

March 8, 2024
March 8, 2024

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.

January 27, 2024
January 27, 2024

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.

January 23, 2024
January 23, 2024

‘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.

January 15, 2024
January 15, 2024

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.

January 12, 2024
January 12, 2024

Creating safe public spaces for women: A collective responsibility

Creating safe and empowering public spaces demands a multidimensional approach, the first step of which is initiating table conversations.

January 10, 2024
January 10, 2024

The golden voice falls silent

The realm of Indian classical music lost one of its brightest stars yesterday as Ustad Rashid Khan, the 10th-generation face of Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, bid us farewell.

January 9, 2024
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.