Sadi Mohammad Shahnewaz

Editor, Arts & Entertainment and Star Showbiz, The Daily Star.

Poorly arranged concerts should not be an ‘Aadat’

It is rather telling of the people when the army has to show up because of how people behave at a concert. “They brought an international band to a mall to perform,” said Sakib, who had attended the concert with high hopes. “It was a total joke. Organisers started taking selfies with the band mid-show, while Jal had to ask 20 times for a light to be turned off.”  

1m ago

Fatima: Where noble intention trumps flawed execution

Dhrubo Hasan’s “Fatima” is an ambitious undertaking, with the director’s passion clearly visible in the script – the aspects of our Liberation War and how we are all fighting our own inner wars, the torment that women still go through for being a woman, the extent to which a close one’s betrayal could be delusionally overlooked.

5m ago

Canada chants ‘Artcell, Artcell!’ as beloved band celebrates 25 years

On May 5, Toronto’s Hamilton saw what was the largest audience for a band in decades. To everyone’s surprise, it was not a North American band, but a Bangladeshi one, celebrating 25 years of their glorious music on tour.

6m ago

Rock n’ Rhythm 4: Mired in chaos, overcome with emotion

On a day when the rain gods smiled favorably upon the hopes of about ten thousand people, barricades were broken, a stampede nearly ensued, and some logistical issues nearly ruined the experience for those holding general tickets at "Rock N’ Rhythm 4.0" in the capital’s International Convention City Bashundhara. However, for five men who have dedicated their entire lives to music, none of this could dampen the emotional reunion of Black's original lineup.

6m ago

Joy Shahriar: A one-man artistic ecosystem

“I could have bought a very nice phone with the money I bought this guitar with,” said Joy Shahriar in The Daily Star’s canteen, proudly flaunting his baby Taylor guitar. “But I chose this expensive guitar. I don’t have unlimited funds, but I know my priorities.” In a way, this sums up the “Shotti Bolchi” singer’s entire career – a story of passion, strife, and street smarts.

6m ago

Black reunion: A one-off?

Music in Bangladesh was never the same after Black launched “Amar Prithibi” in 2002. Taking off the much harder edge brought in by the rock bands of the ‘90s, it was Black who arguably popularised alternative rock in the country, along with acts like Nemesis and Stentorian.

6m ago

Minar moves forward with music

So, what is the artiste looking for in a partner? “Well, she has to be a good, honest person, and that’s pretty much it.” While we are yet to have found the lucky woman with a lifetime of free passes to Minar’s concerts, here’s to hoping that we can finally write ‘original’ news about his wedding.

8m ago

I’m respectful of Bangladesh’s rich musical heritage: Badshah

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, Badshah shared his insights and reflections on his recent trip to Bangladesh, shedding light on his experience and aspirations.

8m ago
July 19, 2018
July 19, 2018

All aboard the 'Bhai Brother Express'

“Finally, the prodigal son returns home,” said Faridur Reza Sagar, in the unveiling of Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and Bhai Brother Express. The project, which will consist of 8 new telefilms for Eid-ul-adha, will see the eminent director return to the platform that gave him a head start in the industry, Channel i.

July 17, 2018
July 17, 2018

Tisha and Chanchal to star in Farooki's telefilm 'Ayesha'

Renowned director Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has announced that he is working on – 'Ayesha' -- an adaptation of Anisul Hoque's 'Ayeshamangal', which will be released on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

July 15, 2018
July 15, 2018

Rock O Phone: Season 3

The outskirts of the TSC auditorium was bumbling with life, as the Garo community made their presence felt with their youthful exuberance.

July 14, 2018
July 14, 2018

Turongomi's 'Aranya' to mesmerise this monsoon

Turongomi Repertory Dance Theatre has long established itself as one of the most prolific dance troupes in the industry, having represented Bangladesh multiple times in the international arena.

July 13, 2018
July 13, 2018

A game spirit where everyone wins!

Bustle and excitement were emanating from the Moushumi field in Rayerbazar on July 5, as two groups of highly charged children donned their favourite Brazil and Argentina jerseys for a display of high-octane athleticism.

July 8, 2018
July 8, 2018

The hype machine of 'Aynabaji'

Aynabaji is going to receive 8 awards at the National Film Awards today, a huge honour for Amitabh Reza Chowdhury and Co.

July 6, 2018
July 6, 2018

Dameer Khan Indie and Independent

At only 17 years old, Dameer Khan has signed up with Majestic Casual Records, a German label known as a pioneer in Indie music. Even though he is the son of decorated musician Pilu Khan of the band Renaissance, he manages to make his own mark in music with unconventional and fresh tunes. The Daily Star has a chat with the up and comer about his music, aspirations and more.

July 6, 2018
July 6, 2018

Shawpnil Shojib and Iman Chakraborty to star in 'Khoyeri Bikel'

Shwapnil Shojib will be seen pairing up with his long-time friend and India's national award-winning singer, Iman Chakraborty. The duo will star in the song Khoyeri

July 6, 2018
July 6, 2018

Ridy Sheikh

Ridy Sheikh heel-turns her way into 'One Minute Please'! The prodigal dancer made quite a name for herself internationally when she participated in 'So You Think You Can Dance' in Russia, and that success boiled over to her performances in 'Dance Plus 3' in India. Ridy now resides in Bangladesh, and is focusing on a career in both dance and acting.

July 4, 2018
July 4, 2018

Avaya Dutta Channeling the purity of Tagore

Avaya Dutta has been touted by the likes of Mita Huq as a promising prospect in Rabindra Sangeet. Formerly a Chhayanaut graduate and now a teacher in the institution, Avaya's golden voice resonates the purity of Rabindra Sangeet at its best. The Daily Star has a chat with the singer, after the release of her debut album 'Alok Malar Saje'.