Mannan Mashhur Zarif

Embracing the chaos: The art of creation

Creative blocks mirror nature’s barren phases, yet chaos and stillness birth inspiration. True creativity resists control, flowing from instinct and emotion. In its wild, sacred moments, we connect deeply—with self, soul, and the art of becoming.

1m ago

A wall’s eye-view diary of a neighbourhood

Every locality in this city has stories, and none seem to speak louder than the anecdotes shared by walls! Case in point: Shantinagar! Having lived here for over four decades, I am no stranger to the tales they offer, and curiously, these narratives are ever-changing.

1m ago

Old Dhaka Weddings: Of flavours and traditions

In Old Dhaka, kachchi biriyani has emerged as the quintessential wedding dish

2m ago

Shakrain: Kites and tastes of Old Dhaka

Shakrain is now observed by the entire community of Old Dhaka

2m ago

Rashid Choudhury: Weaving magic into Bangladesh’s art scene

Rashid Choudhury revolutionized Bangladeshi art by pioneering modern tapestry, blending Bengal’s cultural heritage with European techniques. His vibrant, symbolic works redefined artistic boundaries, inspiring generations and transforming textile art into a powerful medium of national identity.

3m ago

An Eid lunch to remember

Kumkum Rahman grew up in Dhaka. As part of the generation of the ’70s, she has recollections of a relatively quaint city, free from the hustle and bustle of the present day. Among her most treasured memories are those of Ramadan in the metropolis, but what remains etched in her heart is the joy of Eid in a bygone era.

3m ago

Abahani vs. Mohammedan: The football rivalry that defined a generation

Back in the day, the Abahani-Mohammedan rivalry was as fierce as Real Madrid-Barcelona

3m ago

Why I will always love the month of Ramadan

Ramadan holds a special place in the heart, rooted in childhood memories of fasting, reading, and spending time with family. The sacred month provides a chance for reflection, reconnecting with loved ones, and appreciating life's simple, meaningful moments.

4m ago
August 4, 2015
August 4, 2015

Blame it on the rain

“Is this seat taken?” I stopped reading. Looked up.There was a young girl –in her late twenties or early thirties

June 23, 2015
June 23, 2015

Experiencing art

To appreciate art, all that one requires, is a keen pair of eyes. Of course the earnest student does his/her 'bookish' study but everything boils down to one thing – having an eye for the details.

June 16, 2015
June 16, 2015

Basics of Zakat

As Muslims we hold fast to prayers, recite/read the Qur'an and most people offer charity throughout the year.But perhaps we are unaware of the importance of Zakat as the 3rd pillar of Islam.

June 16, 2015
June 16, 2015

At the Bay View

A bird's eye view from the hotel gives a glimpse of the township that is growing at a fast pace, and with a central location, within walking distance of the Chittagong Club Limited and the M A Aziz Stadium, Radisson Blu is at the hub of this vibrant, seaside metropolitan city.

March 24, 2015
March 24, 2015

Grandma's treasure trove

It's not the world of wizardry. Not a legend of hobbits either; no middle earth to fight for, no Aragorn, Gandalf and no ring.

March 21, 2015
March 21, 2015

CONCERT FOR BANGLADESH

Pandit Ravi Shankar's initial plan was to raise around $25,000. Somehow! He thought of acquiring the money, first through the sale of his album, Joi Bangla, and later by arranging a charity concert.

March 10, 2015
March 10, 2015

CONTEMPORARY VIBES

Amidst the depths of darkness, comes the light of hope. When in despair, uncertainty and hopelessness, we are at times thrown into a sea of positivity.

February 24, 2015
February 24, 2015

Curious reads @ Boi Mela

Books are an invaluable means of keeping your mind busy. Rather than spending countless hours in front of the PC, wasting every spare moment in social media, one should start rechanneling their leisure in more fruitful pursuits.

February 17, 2015
February 17, 2015

First Impressions: The Book Cover Conversation

You may have a hundred books in your personal library; some you have read while others are still lying on the shelves waiting for your perusal.

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