Life & Living

Life & Living

Understanding the impact of menstrual cycle hormones on brain function

The menstrual cycle significantly impacts brain function beyond reproduction. Hormonal shifts influence memory, emotions, and behaviour, contributing to challenges like PMS or PMDD. Research highlights brain-wide changes, emphasising holistic approaches for managing symptoms and improving women's health.

1d ago

Looking at your dream job? Here’s how to get hired

Proactive job hunting involves thorough research, tailored resumes, networking, and interview preparation. Research industry trends, enhance skills via online courses, align resumes with job descriptions, leverage LinkedIn, and practice thoughtful responses for first impressions.

3d ago

Is inflation giving you anxiety? You're not alone

Bangladesh's high inflation is straining households financially and mentally. Financial stress disrupts mental balance, leading to burnout, impaired relationships, and physical symptoms. Coping strategies include exercise, budgeting, support systems, reframing thoughts, and fostering mental resilience.

3d ago

Why do women fall for bad boys?

Women's attraction to bad boys, despite knowing their flaws, highlights the allure of rebellious men, driven by evolutionary attraction and a desire for freedom. However, such relationships often lead to heartbreak, emotional strain, and unrealistic expectations.

3d ago

Dhaka Makers set to return at Aloki Convention Center

Building on the vibrant legacies of its previous editions, Dhaka Makers 3, presented by City Bank, returns with a promise to surpass its predecessors. Set to unfold from 30 January to 3 February, 2025, at the Aloki Convention Center at 211 Tejgaon Link, this festival remains a cornerstone event for showcasing the ingenuity of small independent brands and artisans.

1d ago

Winter’s almost over, but nihari’s comfort is forever

Nihari, a rich, slow-cooked stew made from beef, goat, or lamb, is a winter indulgence that warms both body and soul. Despite its cholesterol risks, it remains a beloved ritual for many, symbolising winter's indulgent spirit.

3d ago

Turks and Caicos Islands: Postcards from paradise, voices from the shadows

The Turks and Caicos Islands, a tropical paradise of stunning beaches and luxury resorts, mask a troubling reality. Beneath the glamour, black migrant workers face exploitation, low wages, and harsh living conditions, sustaining the islands' tourism industry.

6d ago

Pinon hadi: Crafting tradition with a modern twist

Pinon hadi, a traditional cultural attire, has evolved from a single-piece garment to include modern elements like embroidery. Woven manually using back strap looms, it blends heritage, sustainability, and contemporary aesthetics, gaining popularity as bridal wear.

1w ago
Arts & Entertainment

Arts & Entertainment

JU observes Selim Al Deen’s death anniv

The drama and dramatics department at Jahangirnagar University yesterday organised a daylong programme at their campus, marking the 17th death anniversary of renowned thespian and former teacher Selim Al Deen.

1w ago

‘Bangladesh first concert’: Artistes vow to stay united for country

The capital’s Manik Mia Avenue was teeming with people from all walks of life since yesterday afternoon, as they waited to catch a glimpse of their favourite artistes.

1m ago

Metallica to hold virtual concert in Fortnite

Metallica, the world-renowned rock band, is set to hold a virtual concert in the popular video game Fortnite. Named 'Metallica: Fuel Fire Fury', Fortnite players can tune in to the virtual concert on two set dates: June 22 at 2 pm, 5 pm, and 11 pm ET, and June 23 at 10 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm ET.

7m ago

BTS’ RM sets new record with his latest No. 1 single

BTS’ leader RM returns to the US charts, only weeks after releasing his latest solo album. The global star made a comeback as a featured artiste on Megan Thee Stallion's new single "Neva Play," which has quickly become a success for both artistes.

4m ago

No Bangladeshi films in 30th Kolkata Int'l Film Festival

Bangladeshi film "Dear Maloti" could not be included as its Asian premiere is scheduled for the International Film Festival of India (IFFI)

2m ago

Indian news agency ANI sues Netflix for using its content in hijack drama

The series, called "IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack" - a fictionalised version of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight 814 from Kathmandu - has been embroiled in controversy since its release last month.

4m ago

Actor Donald Sutherland dies at 88

The tall actor with a deep voice, piercing blue eyes and mischievous smile managed to switch effortlessly from character roles to romantic leads, opposite the likes of Jane Fonda and Julie Christie

7m ago

In pictures: Red carpet arrivals at Cannes

The 77th Cannes Film Festival - Screening of the film "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" Out of competition - Red Carpet Arrivals

8m ago
Showbiz

Showbiz

Novera eager to shed ‘Rickshaw Girl’ moniker

You may know Novera Rahman as the “Rickshaw Girl”, the titular character of the Amitabh Reza Chowdhury directorial, but she is more than that. She is a painter, an actress, and a producer who yearns to play rebellious characters on-screen.

1d ago

From Bailey Road to ‘Miss North America’: Zarin’s inspiring journey

When NSU graduate Zarin Mahmood landed in Canada in 2017, she had left behind a life of relative certainty to enter the grind of a life far away. Discarding her desire to pursue business, which was her major in university, she jumped on the opportunity to complete a Master’s in Technology Innovation Management at Ottawa’s Carlton University.

2w ago

Packing Dhaka, Down Under

The band took inspiration from a local act called ‘Bowling in Japan’ while using Samin’s heritage as an inspiration. It is fitting, too, as the incredibly tight group comes together with Samin’s outspoken personality and Dhaka-ite soul. As the evening dawned, people from all over Sydney started gathering to see Packing Dhaka and its opener, Apocalypseboyo.

3w ago

Hilarious Kaarina, serious Kaarina

From working as a content creator to making her debut on the silver screen with “36-24-36”, Kaarina Kaisar’s transition happened by chance. Nevertheless, she confidently stepped into the role of Syra, using it to highlight an important message of body positivity.

1m ago

The Nishat Priom phenomenon

With nearly a decade in the industry, Nishat Priom has captivated audiences on both television and OTT platforms. As one of the earliest talents in the OTT space, she consistently takes on diverse roles, pushing boundaries and exploring new dimensions in her craft.

3m ago

Serene Sarika

A spontaneous girl, who entered showbiz in 2006 as a model while still in school, quickly made her mark in the industry with grace and charm. Sarika Subrin, a household name for her roles in small-screen dramas, is now making waves on OTT platforms. She has also been the host of the longest-running celebrity show, “Amar Ami”, for four years now.

3m ago

The blissful sounds of Puja

While much of the attention during the Puja season is drawn to the artistry of the idols or the grandeur of the festivities, the role of traditional music and instruments remains a deeply rooted, often overlooked aspect.

3m ago

The artivist

Being a cartoonist is Morshed Mishu’s preferred public identity, or as he describes himself, an “artivist”—someone who practices activism through art in a non-traditional manner. Mishu, who rose to prominence through his political cartoons and social activism, has journeyed to every corner of the country to aid his fellow countrymen.

3m ago
Star Health

Star Health

Leprosy cases keep rising in Sylhet

The number of leprosy patients rose in Sylhet district in recent times amid inadequate treatment facilities.

21h ago

Live pain-free and young again

Ageing is a natural and unavoidable phenomenon that brings with it various health challenges, including arthritis, memory loss, joint degeneration, lung fibrosis, and other complications.

21h ago

Women face higher cancer risk before age 65: What you need to know

New research from the American Cancer Society shows that women under 65 face a higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer compared to men.

21h ago

Innovating for a healthier, sustainable future

The inaugural Asia-Pacific Global Health Innovation Hackathon 2025 took place from 17-18 January 2025 and brought together 16 teams from 13 Asia-Pacific markets to address the urgent intersection of health challenges and climate change.

21h ago

Revolutionising infant care / New approaches to treating possible serious bacterial infection in young infants

A dissemination meeting showcasing the key findings of two pioneering clinical trials aimed at enhancing the management of Possible Serious Bacterial Infection (PSBI) in infants under 2 months of age was held at the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in Dhaka recently.

21h ago

Breathe easy: The best allergy treatments

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you are not alone.

21h ago

Winter Diseases: Hospitals grapple with influx of child patients

Hospitals in Chattogram are struggling to handle a sharp increase in child patients suffering from cold-related complications during the winter.

1d ago

Ctg hospitals grapple with influx of child patients

During visits to various hospitals in the port city, pediatric wards were found filled beyond capacity. Many children were admitted with conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and diarrhoea

2d ago
Satireday

Satireday

Satire / Justice for Sale: Case Files Found at Tk 16 per Kg

Who knew justice could be 'that' quick, or cheap?

2w ago

Satire / BBA student gets married, calls it the best networking experience of his life

Nothing is impossible – if you believe in your ability to make the right connections, that is.

3m ago

Satire / iPhone 16 users claim biggest feature is a scam

The iPhone 16 series launched a couple of weeks ago, coinciding with a sudden rise in online ads by people selling human kidneys.

3m ago

Government losing ‘Aandar’ control trying to bring it under control

In an unprecedented twist, the government keeps losing Aandar control while attempting to bring it under control. Aanda, or egg -- whatever people choose to call it doesn’t matter anymore as they are having breakfast without eggs.

3m ago

Holy League unveils new leftist wing

“We represent the thoughts, feelings and experiences of the majority of Bangladesh. Our policies, philosophies and ideals are all BLESSED. You must understand this,” he yelled at the crowd.

3m ago

A tale from the future: Ordinary students celebrate lynching 100th person

The year is 2028. Ordinary students have done something extraordinary yet again. Yesterday, they organised “Lunch for Lynching” to celebrate beating a hundred people to death since the “lucky seventh independence”.

4m ago

Satire / ‘Natok Kom Koro Pio’

“Natok kom koro Pio,” the man said, his white beard shaking with fury.

4m ago

Altruistic prisoners demand work-from-jail permission

When the world is busy inventing and discovering new things, the people of Chapasthan 2.0 are busy coming up with new demands with every passing hour.

4m ago
TOGGLE

TOGGLE

The iPhone 15 Pro's camera can be a true game changer

The recent launch of Apple's iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max has set the tech world abuzz, and for good reason. While the device is teeming with top-tier features, it is the camera that truly commands attention. Offering a set of functionalities that can rival some professional cameras, Apple's latest offering is not just an incremental upgrade; it's a significant leap forward from its predecessors, particularly the iPhone 14 Pro.

1y ago

Editor's Note / Embracing the inevitable

And thus, we invite our readers to embark on the next exhilarating journey with Tech & Startup!

1y ago

So long, goodbye

The sun may set, but the journey never truly ends. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

1y ago

Bytes / Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: The ultimate ultra

Samsung's latest flagship, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, takes centre stage as a powerful contender in the smartphone market. While some might argue that the design changes are subtle and the price tag is on the higher side, there's no denying that this device excels in certain key areas, especially when it comes to photography.

1y ago

Cover Story / Every end marks a new beginning

To our readers, thank you for your unwavering support and loyalty. We invite you to join us in embracing this new beginning and be a part of the exciting journey that lies ahead. Together, let us explore the endless possibilities that technology and startups offer, celebrating the innovative spirit that drives us all.

1y ago

Huawei completes 25 years in Bangladesh

Huawei, the multinational technology corporation, has recently completed 25 years in Bangladesh. The organisation held a celebration event on 20 July, where they thanked their partners and stakeholders for years of support. 

1y ago

Safeguarding workspaces from escalating cyber attacks: A comprehensive guide

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how organisations can safeguard their data, secure their employees' information, prevent cyber attacks, and respond effectively in case of a breach.

1y ago

The setting sun

With that, let’s join hands in hopes of a brighter future. Keep in mind that everytime the sun sets, the promise of a better tomorrow awaits. A new journey is always right around the corner. 

1y ago
In Focus

In Focus

Sacrificed for Development

After the creation of Pakistan, the nascent state embarked on vigorous projects to industrialise both parts of the country.

6d ago

An Untold History of Bengali Migrants in Malaya and Singapore

During the 1980s and 1990s, a new wave of Bangladeshi migrants, comprising mainly unskilled workers, led to a widespread perception of Bengali migrants as itinerant labourers and temporary workers in the Malay Peninsula.

1w ago

GALLOPING THROUGH HISTORY / The Tale of Ramna Racecourse

In 1825, Charles Dowes, the then Magistrate of Dhaka, initiated the clearing of the Ramna jungle using prison labour. He enclosed an oval-shaped area with wooden railings and introduced horse racing competitions. From that time, the white colonial officials and residents of Dhaka found a source of recreation at the racecourse.

2w ago

Brains before bridges: Prioritising human capital over infrastructure

A glance at the recent history of the world’s most developed nations reveals a compelling truth: no country has ever achieved sustainable development without first investing in education and research.

3w ago

Birth centenary of Prof AF Salahuddin Ahmed / Growth of National Consciousness

Although the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign state is a fact of recent history, this country has been the home of an ancient civilization.

1m ago

Wartime treatment: The heroes who saved lives, silently 

While the armed freedom fighters fought valiantly on the battlefield during the 1971 war, a quieter yet equally crucial battle was being waged on the medical front.

1m ago

Gender and Genocide in Bangladesh

History is complicated; simplifying it is the work of politicians. My research on Bangladesh challenges the national memory of the 1971 war, as represented at the Liberation War Museum.

1m ago

Dreaming about Ladyland

More than a century ago, revered Bengali writer Begum Rokeya in her short story Sultana’s Dream had visualized futuristic inventions like solar cookers, atmospheric water generators and flying air-cars. She dreamt of Ladyland as a feminist utopia without crime, the death penalty and epidemics. Here men were shut indoors and responsible for childcare and household chores, while women with “quicker” brains pursued science and shaped inventions.

1m ago
Star Youth

Star Youth

Shared spaces, shared lives

Sharing a room with your sibling is undoubtedly arduous yet rewarding in several ways.

3w ago

Empathy fatigue: A troubling reality plaguing our society

Despite my best efforts to practice empathy – to offer a kind word, to share what I have – it often feels futile in an environment that seems to reward apathy.

3w ago

Doomscrolling done right

Even if staying up-to-date with these occurrences takes a toll on our mental health, can we turn a blind eye to it when the world is burning?

1m ago

Challenges women face when trying to play in public spaces

For women, safety is a prerequisite for participation but even then, it is rarely if ever ensured.  

1m ago

MajhaMajhi’s performance art exploring wellness and the concept of shadow work

MajhaMajhi’s art performance at Dhaka Flow wasn’t just for entertainment. It was a call to action – a chance to confront our shadows and embark on a journey of self-empowerment.

1m ago

A master procrastinator’s guide on how not to procrastinate

Procrastinating may be a guilty pleasure or even a coping mechanism for many of us. However, it is undeniable that the guilt of procrastination devours us from within and is detrimental to our mental well-being. If so, how exactly can we untangle ourselves from its sticky threads?

1m ago

Female youth voices from Bangladesh at COP29

The voices of young women from Bangladesh resonated powerfully at COP29. Representing diverse communities and experiences, Saila Sobnom Richi, Farzana Farak Jhumu, and Fariha Aumi embodied the spirit of youth leadership in addressing climate justice.

1m ago

We should rethink our approach to online political discussions

Political discussions today often devolve into verbal battlegrounds, where the goal seems less about understanding and more about winning. Social media, creating echo chambers and shrinking attention spans, amplifies this by rewarding outrage and oversimplification over nuance and depth.

3m ago
Shift

Shift

Motorcycle maintenance tips for winter

Winter in Bangladesh, while not as severe as in many parts of the world, still poses unique challenges for motorcyclists. Here are six essential motorcycle maintenance tips for winter, each with practical advice for keeping your ride in top shape.

1w ago

CES 2025: BMW unveils panoramic iDrive HUD

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, BMW has recently revealed a futuristic update to its iDrive operating system, featuring a fully customisable panoramic heads-up display (HUD) that spans the width of the windshield from pillar to pillar.

2w ago

Volkswagen data leak exposed movements of 800,000 electric cars: report

A major data leak has exposed the movements and contact details of 800,000 electric vehicles (EVs) from Volkswagen and its affiliated brands, according to an investigation by German news outlet Der Spiegel. The breach reportedly allowed detailed tracking of drivers, raising significant privacy concerns.

3w ago

Toyota production drops 6.2% in November amid rising sales: Report

Toyota Motor Corporation reported a 6.2% decline in global production for November, marking the 10th consecutive monthly drop, despite achieving a second straight month of increased global sales driven by strong demand in the United States and China, according to a recent report by Reuters.

1m ago

CFMOTO officially launches 6 bikes in Bangladesh

CFMOTO, a Chinese motorcycle brand, has officially launched six bikes including its flagship models the 300SR, 250NK, and 250SR, along with the 150SC, 250CL-C, and 230 DUAL on December 19 at Capital’s International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB).

1m ago

Honda and Nissan discuss potential merger

Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan have confirmed preliminary discussions about a possible merger, a move that could reshape the global automotive landscape.

1m ago

Amazon officially begins selling cars online

Amazon has officially entered the online car sales market with the launch of Amazon Autos, an e-commerce platform enabling customers to search for, order, and purchase new vehicles directly from dealerships.

1m ago

General Motors to stop making Cruise robotaxis

General Motors (GM) has decided to stop developing robotaxis at its Cruise division, citing high costs, lengthy timelines, and increased competition in the autonomous vehicle market.

1m ago
Daily Star Books

Daily Star Books

ESSAY / Michael Madhusudan Dutt: A pioneer of modern Bangla literature

January 25, 2025 marks the 201st birth anniversary of Michael Madhushudan Dutt

22h ago

BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Voices of resistance: Stories of women’s struggles and resilience in South Asia

Our Stories, Our Struggles: Violence and the Lives of Women (Speaking Tiger Books, 2024) is an anthology edited by Mitali Chakravarty and Ratnottama Sengupta.

3d ago

BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / A novel’s wry exploration of nostalgia, growth, and the baggage we carry

In Good Material, Dolly Alderton uses her sharp humor and keen observations to explore the challenges of adulthood.

3d ago

Interest payments eat up more than half of govt revenue expenses

Over half of the government’s total revenue expenditure during the first four months of the current fiscal year of 2024–25 was on interest payments alone, mainly due to increased borrowing and a rise in the interest rates.

3d ago

EVENT REPORT / ‘The Aid Lab: Understanding Bangladesh’s Unexpected Success’: Naomi Hossain’s book finally meets Bangladesh

On January 18, UPL hosted the publication ceremony for Naomi Hossain's 'Aid Lab' (University Press Limited, 2024) at The Bookworm in Shahabuddin Park

4d ago

BOOK REVIEW: GRAPHIC NOVEL / 'Deadly Class': A raw, rebellious dive into the chaos of youth

Review of ‘Deadly Class’ (first published in 2014 by Image Comic), created and written by Rick Remender

1w ago

BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Shards of clarity

Beginning to read Fine Gråbøl’s What Kingdom, translated from the Danish by Martin Aitkin, is like sitting in a silent room, alone, and a voice begins to speak as though from beside you.

1w ago

BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Accounts of a joyless life

Izumi Suzuki was little known outside of Japan during her short lifetime. The Japanese author and actress had remained a cult figure most of her life.

1w ago
Star Holiday

Star Holiday

Madhya Pradesh: A journey into ancient India

Nestled in the very heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and nature. With its rich heritage, the state offers a unique window into ancient India. It hosts three Unesco World Heritage sites, 11 natural parks, 24 wildlife sanctuaries and six tiger reserves. However, the state, with all its archaeological sites, turned out to be a treasure trove to me, a traveller drawn to history.

1m ago

The Pamir Highway: A road trip to remember

Our journey began with the dream of exploring Central Asia in a motorhome, but time constraints and border challenges reshaped our plans.

3m ago

Visiting four African nations in 12 days

Time is the one thing we all want but can never get enough of. No matter how hard we try to hold onto it, it always slips away.

4m ago

A Day in Jaipur: A city of splendid forts, mahals and people

Since childhood, my imagination of Rajasthan was shaped by Satyajit Ray's classic detective film Sonar Kella -- a thrilling tale that masterfully captured the beauty, tradition, and history of this land of kings and forts.

4m ago

Overlanding in Africa Touring 10 countries in 93 days

“Overlanding”, might be more familiar to Westerners, but it’s a concept anyone can embrace. It isn’t a typical vacation or guided tour. It’s a self-sufficient adventure travel style where one can conquer long distances, exploring for weeks, months, or even years.

4m ago

Scaling Mount Whitney

“My God! How can a mountain change so much in just a month?”

5m ago

Khiva: a Central Asian gem on Silk Road

The destination was Khiva, one of Uzbekistan’s most well-preserved ancient cities on the Silk Road.

7m ago

A couple’s Eurotrip in 20 days

This little blue bubble that we call our home is enormous. It is not humanely possible to get a sense of how big and diverse this world is by travelling in a lifetime.

8m ago
Weekend Read

Weekend Read

A new era in elderly care

Dr Asha Islam Nayeem, a professor in the Department of History at the Dhaka University, has a heart-wrenching story.

1d ago

Reimagining Dhaka’s parks: Rasulbagh shows the way

Tucked into the narrow confusing lanes of Lalbagh is Rasulbagh Children’s Park -- a rare slice of serenity in a city that often forgets to breathe.

1w ago

Shopping in Dhaka: A trip down memory lane

I heard a friend say that no matter where she goes shopping, be it on 5th Avenue in New York, in old Delhi, or even at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, nothing beats the pleasure she finds shopping in Dhaka’s shopping districts: Chandni Chawk, Hawker’s, and New Market.

2w ago

Affordable audiophilia - a growing love for high-fidelity audio

For decades, Bangladesh has been home to a devoted group of people passionate about high-fidelity sound reproduction.

3w ago

Pitha: the heart of winter celebrations

In Bangladesh, winter is more than a season -- it’s a celebration. It’s the time for weddings, marked by steaming plates of biryani, fragrant with ghee and tender, flavourful potatoes.

4w ago

Madhur Canteen: The story of an eatery and Bangladesh

If one says Madhur Canteen and Bangladesh’s history is inextricably interlinked, will it be an exaggeration?

1m ago

History of Madhur Canteen

The canteen was founded in 1921 by Aditya Chandra Dey, Madhuda’s father, who received permission from the university authorities to open a food business on the university grounds when Dhaka University was established.

1m ago

Crown jewels of Bengal

Scattered across Bangladesh are countless archaeological treasures that reveal its prosperous past. While time has erased some, many remain hidden beneath the earth, awaiting discovery. Among the surviving remnants are ancient fortresses, temples, mosques, monasteries and so on -- testaments to the region’s rich history and cultural legacy.

1m ago