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
January 6, 2024
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.

September 3, 2023
September 3, 2023

Mahanayak Uttam Kumar: The human behind the silver screen persona

But what lay beneath the surface of this iconic figure when he shed his charismatic facade and stripped away the fluid mask that conveyed a myriad of emotions and moods? Did he, like us ordinary folks, grapple with emotional turmoil?