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Television thrives amidst internet outage: Can it keep its viewers?
While the internet was down, TV ratings skyrocketed. Most TV channels have confirmed that their ratings have doubled, although they couldn't provide actual figures as data couldn't be gathered physically. How did they assume their content was reaching the audience? The answer lies in the constant stream of advertisement breaks.
Internet outage cripples streaming industry
Around 33 production houses in Bangladesh produce dramas specifically for their YouTube channels, with clips often being shared on Facebook.
The off-beat Bengal queen
Returning to Bangladesh after four years still refreshes the memories of Paoli Dam’s first visit. “It was in 2010, during the shoots of Gautam Ghosh’s 'Moner Manush', the Indo-Bangla joint venture,” shared the actress, whose origin is Faridpur. “I haven’t had the opportunity to visit Faridpur till now,” she sighed.
Hall owners face huge losses, look to recoup with ‘Toofan’
The Raihan Rafi directorial was expected to run for the foreseeable future before the quota reform protests started. According to the producers, the film earned around Tk 25 crore, a rare feat for a Bangladeshi film. Even though some people did go see the film at the start of the movement, cinema halls had to close down after nationwide violence started, claiming the lives of many involved.
‘Toofani’ Nabila
She earned immense popularity after portraying Hridi in the much-acclaimed film “Aynabaji”, in 2016. Masuma Rahman Nabila is now set to grace the screens after a long time, with Raihan Rafi’s film “Toofan” where the actress has paired up with Shakib Khan, for the first time. She also shared the screen with Chanchal Chowdhury in this project, who was her debut film co-actor.
Blessed Basar
This Eid-ul-Azha, the young sensation Khairul Basar has graced our screens with 12 television projects, some already aired and others awaiting release. Fresh from the festivities, Basar drops by The Daily Star for a quick chat.
Artcellism lives on
As I was preparing for the camera to roll, a humbling realisation struck me—this band had been crafting sonic masterpieces before I had even mastered my mother tongue. Their creations, like— "Oniket Prantor", "Onno Shomoy", "Obosh Onubhutir Deyal", "Amar Poth Chola", "Dhushor Shomoy"—had become the soundtrack to a generation’s hopes, dreams, and rebellions.
A jack of all trades: An exclusive with Parambrata Chattopadhyay
The talented artiste feels that the experience of working in “Ajob Karkhana” enriched his soul. “I used to look for the research works done on folk musicians and music genres and at that time, I didn't have the real experience of witnessing them performing live, which I had during the shoot. It seemed surreal to me when listening to Jari, Ghatu or Baul songs (in front of Lalon Shah’s shrine) in a rustic atmosphere with thousands of people.”
An unlikely partnership: How internet humour is reshaping film marketing
In Bangladesh and beyond, the success of productions like "Kacher Manush Dure Thuiya" and "Myself Allen Swapan" suggests that meme marketing is more than just a passing trend. It represents a fundamental shift in how audiences interact with and share content. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, those in the film and streaming industry who can master the art of the meme may find themselves with a significant advantage in capturing the ever-elusive attention of modern viewers.
Humayun Faridee: Remembering the ‘actors’ actor’
Humayun Faridee, a luminary of Bangladeshi stages, screens, and television, took his final breath on February 13, 2012, in Dhaka. Yet his physical departure does not signify erasure. His creations and artistry have transcended time, rendering him immortal in the hearts of his admirers. While literal victory over death is unattainable, Faridee achieved a form of immortality through the enduring legacy of his work.
Abdul Gaffar Chowdhury, a legacy beyond words
Chowdhury’s contributions go beyond this iconic song and journalism. He was a distinguished storyteller with notable works, including the acclaimed short story collection “Samrat-er Chhobi” (The Emperor’s Picture). He also authored significant novels and plays, consistently emerging as an active progressive writer and political commentator through the twists and turns of history. He was not just an observer of history but an active participant.
From Ghazals to global fame: Pankaj Udhas’ soulful serenade
The man behind the song, Pankaj Udhas, brought Ghazal to the masses, popularising it and making it accessible to the multitude not only in his country India but also across the globe with his calm and controlled voice that won everybody’s hearts.
Celebrating Mrinal Sen’s 101
Mrinal Sen, a pioneering figure of Indian cinema, continues to inspire artistic representation of social consciousness. Born on May 14, 1923, in Faridpur, his journey as a filmmaker traversed tumultuous socio-political landscapes. Through the composition of his illustrious career, he distinguished himself as a filmmaker of unparalleled vision and courage, particularly because his works transcended mere entertainment to embody profound social commentary.
Arnob unplugged: Candid insights into his artistic journey
The musician is renowned for his exceptional lyricism and musical arrangements and has been a stalwart in the Bengali music scene for decades. Amidst his bustling studio life, he finds solace in the tranquillity of Shantiniketan, where his musical journey began as a disciple.
Recollecting Bangladesh’s cinematic homage to Rabindranath
Rabindranath Tagore’s literary prowess extends far beyond the realm of literature. His creations have served as a beacon of inspiration for countless writers and poets who walked the path he paved.
Into the multiverse of Satyajit
Satyajit Ray and his brilliance have been a quintessential part of Bengali cinema and its representation worldwide for decades. Talking about why and how his masterpieces are legendary never seems enough, and perhaps it never will be.
Remembering Fakir Alamgir, the voice of the working class
Fakir Alamgir’s life embodies the spirit of May Day — representing both its struggles and triumphs. His lifelong dedication to the rights and welfare of the working class through his music marks him as a true champion of the labourers' cause.
The lesser-known facets of cinematic maestro Satyajit Ray
Born on May 2, 1921, Ray’s artistic journey began in the realm of commercial art before he became a filmmaker. His encounter with French filmmaker Jean Renoir and his experience with Vittorio De Sica's groundbreaking film “Bicycle Thieves” during a trip to London were pivotal, steering him toward independent filmmaking.
