Life & Living
Dhaka Flow’s grand opening: Finally, a place to heal your mind, body, and spirit
Dhaka Flow inaugurated its Health & Healing Studio on 7 September, 2024, in Banani, through a lively event, introducing a new hub for wellness that aims to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of its visitors.
Sip happens: 5 milk drinks that are anything but boring
Along with being a popular drink of choice, milk is inherently healthy. People of all ages prefer it because of the minimal number of additives and plenty of nutrients found in it. But, are you hesitant to consume it because you do not enjoy the taste? The following are some simple ways for you to whip up your new favourite milk drink at home!
#Perspective / Kashful fields and starry nights: The magic of autumn in Bengal
Fall, in this part of the world, may not be marked by a profound stillness. Nevertheless, even in Bengal, the season brings about noticeable changes.
#Perspective / Stars shine bright, but who’s keeping the lights on? Meet the unsung heroes of entertainment
The world of entertainment certainly looks alluring. But have you wondered about the people who work day and night to keep the magic alive? Here, stars easily garner the lion’s share of praise and visibility. However, the essential contributions of background artists frequently remain overlooked.
Nihari ramen – Another pineapple-on-pizza heresy?
Nihari ramen, a Pakistani-Japanese fusion, is trending on social media. Some argue it ruins cultural authenticity, while others love the spicy-salty blend. Is it a culinary crime or a must-try dish? What’s your take on this food fusion?
Why spend on diamonds when glass can fool you just as well?
Forget the traditional adage, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend." We are in Bangladesh, where a far humbler material is being touted as the new must-have luxury accessory. Who needs diamonds when you can have a shiny piece of glass for a fraction of the cost?
#Perspective / Food first, photos later? Not in the age of Instagram!
I was recently out with my friends trying out this restaurant. The food was delivered and just as I was about to dive in, my friends collectively stopped my hand and unarmed me of my cutlery. Why? They stopped it because they needed to take pictures of it so that 200 or so random people on their Instagram/Facebook could feel united with them.
Which annoying office chat group character are you? Find out here!
Discover the quirky characters in your office chat groups: the Pioneer, Mime Artist, Podcaster, Alien, Ghost, and Boss. From endless GIFs to unwelcome voice notes, identify and laugh at these familiar faces!
Arts & Entertainment
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.
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
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
Delving deep into ‘MaLoMa’ and its topsy turvy world
As I write this, “MaLoMa”, a musical tale of extraordinary lives led by everyday people, is trending number 1 on YouTube Bangladesh & 38 on global YouTube. This song, as a whole, is many stories woven together as one, belonging to people from all walks of life. The stories touch hearts and inspire music lovers to ponder upon life in general. As Arif Dewan and Shagor Dewan sing their hearts out about how mistaken they were about life being a bed of roses, the chaotic city around them comes to life.
'Baby Reindeer' inspiration sues Netflix for $170 mn
A British woman who claims she was the inspiration for the stalker in the smash Netflix hit "Baby Reindeer" sued the streamer Thursday, demanding $170 million in damages.
Kristen Stewart and Oscar Isaac to pair in new vampire thriller movie
A new vampire thriller movie called "Flesh of the Gods" is about to step into the flashy, sybaritic world of 1980s Los Angeles.
SC clears way for Dipjol to serve as BFAA secretary
The Supreme Court chamber judge today cleared the way for film actor Monwar Hossain Dipjol to perform as general secretary of Bangladesh Film Artistes Association (BFAA)
New York court overturns Harvey Weinstein sex crime conviction
New York's highest court on Thursday overturned disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein's 2020 conviction on sex crime charges, a shock reversal in one of the defining cases of the #MeToo movement
Showbiz
Steadfast Siam, valiant Siam
“Everyone is free to use their words as they wish, but it’s disheartening to see behaviour that doesn’t sit right with me,” shared Siam Ahmed. The actor is equally as shocked as his other colleagues in the fraternity after the exposé of the WhatsApp group ‘Alo Ashbei’, which became the talk of the town as some of its members are veteran actors of the industry.
We need time to heal: Toya
Toya and her husband, Sayed Zaman Shawon, who is also an artiste, both joined the movement. They have also sent aid and volunteered to support flood victims.
Staying silent is never an option: Safa Kabir
At the outset of the anti-discrimination student movement, only a few artistes voiced their support. Among those who did was actress Safa Kabir, who felt a sense of duty and stepped out of her comfort zone to ask, “Why are these kids being beaten on the roads?” She also suggested that these students are young and need to be dealt with love, not aggression, leaving her message to the protestors, “Dear students, I’m with you all.”
Opinion / Artistes should question power, not fear it
Cultural figures, some without even being directly involved in the movement, fuelled the protest with their music, art, and philosophy. As the fire of resistance raged on, the veil of fear was lifted, and more voices joined in. We can only hope that today’s celebrities learn to question power rather than remain subservient to it.
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.
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.”
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.
‘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.
Star Health
World physiotherapy day 2024 / Empowering you to beat low back pain
World Physiotherapy Day, observed on September 8th each year, is a global event dedicated to recognising and promoting the significant contributions of physiotherapists to healthcare.
A simple blood test for Alzheimer’s? Promising results offer hope
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a devastating form of dementia, has long been diagnosed through invasive procedures like lumbar punctures or expensive PET scans.
Unhealthy commodities and their mental health impact
“Unhealthy commodities” like tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed foods, social media, and fossil fuels are increasingly linked to mental health disorders such as depression, suicide, and anxiety, according to a study published in the PLOS Global Public Health journal.
World suicide prevention day / Changing the narrative on suicide
Suicide poses a significant public health challenge, with over 700,000 deaths globally each year.
Update on RSV vaccines
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), previously known for causing cough primarily in young children, has been recognised as a significant threat to adults aged 60 and older, potentially leading to severe Lower Respiratory Tract Disease (LRTD).
A minimally invasive breakthrough in brain surgery
Currently, diagnosing and treating brain disorders often requires a craniotomy—a procedure where a large portion of the skull is removed to place electrodes directly on the brain.
A promise for personalised treatment of cancer
Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP) is a challenging condition where doctors cannot identify the original source of the cancer, leading to
Doctors’ protests: Regular services stay suspended at DMCH
With no inpatient or outpatient services amid a strike following an assault on a doctor, the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) yesterday witnessed a heavy workload.
Satireday
Satire / Nation struggles with newfound freedom of speech
Who would have thought? From the yoke of authoritarianism, where everything you said had to be checked for the presence of words that could anger the powers that be, today, Bangladeshis can say whatever they want to.
Obsessed with rainbows, ex-faculty member slapped with restraining order
When the former part-time lecturer of Crack University was let go last year for his discriminatory language and actions, he was at a loss. Why had the university dismissed him for tearing up a book as an educator?
The Cancelling
The TV hummed slowly, filling the room with a soothing sound. Almost acting like a form of white noise.
EdTech platforms offer courses on protests and marching
In a move that has left both educators and politicians scratching their heads, EdTech platform 7-Minute Pathshala has launched a new course on organising protests and marches.
Salman caught while pretending to be garden gnome
Following another escape attempt, Salman F Rahman was once again foiled from fleeing the country while still on remand. He was caught while pretending to be a garden gnome on the lawn of a residential house in Gulshan.
Hibernating influencers awaken as flood visits Bangladesh
“Please send money to my bKash and Nagad accounts (bKash 01*******, Nagad 01*******),” was how Superstar Kumon, one of the country’s unrivalled social media legends, finally broke his silence on social media since the student movement began.
The Long March but Short Flight
A section of former Awami League supporters, who consider themselves free thinkers, progressives, etc. and who also joined the students in demanding resignation of Hasina, have now decided to open a new political party, the Afsos League.
Hey, this is Jay from Hinge
“Did you know babe, I am actually older than my age on Hinge. And because I am very fit, which everyone tells me all the time, everyone always guesses that is my age,” said Jay, staring into the mirror, trying to fix his hairline.
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.
Editor's Note / Embracing the inevitable
And thus, we invite our readers to embark on the next exhilarating journey with Tech & Startup!
So long, goodbye
The sun may set, but the journey never truly ends. Stay tuned for our next adventure!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In Focus
The Bengali Mahanayika & Mahanayak
On November 29, 1957, the Bengali-language newspaper Jugantor carried an advertisement placed by the management of Metro Goldwyn Mayer’s (MGM) Metro Film Hall of Kolkata.
Nayakraj Razzak: A new man in the 1960s
In the often-treacherous world of showbiz, there is always “something else” beyond mere skill, charisma, and looks that contributes to stardom.
Shamsur Rahman and Muslim Bengali childhood - modernity, city, and soliloquy
The poetic tradition in the East, particularly in Greater India, has long been characterised by diverse literary experimentation, significantly influenced by Sanskritic, Arabic, and Persian cosmopolitan traditions.
Utpal Dutt and Postcolonial Political Theatre
The inspiration for decolonization, as a philosophical term, writes Achille Mbembe, was the ‘active will to community’ which can be translated as something like ‘to stand up on one’s own and create a heritage’.
Concert for Bangladesh
Ravi Shankar methodically plucked the seven top strings on his sitar, drawing twanged melodies out of the four-footlong instrument.
A forgotten chapter in the intellectual movement of Bengali Muslims
Anwarul Quadir (1887-1948) was a key literary figure whose work significantly influenced the intellectual movement of Bengali Muslims in late colonial Bengal.
Australian involvement in the Bangladesh Liberation War
If you think about the international reaction to the Bangladesh Liberation War, you most likely would consider the United States government openly siding with Pakistan.
An Iconic History of Bengal
In the sixties of the last century, I earned my primary degree with majors in Philosophy and Indian Studies and became a secondary school teacher.
Star Youth
A new Linkin Park and an exciting new chapter for the band
Linkin Park returns with new vocalist Emily Armstrong.
The sound of resistance: Songs that came out during the student movement
Some of our country’s talented musicians courageously stood up against the previous regime and violence on peaceful student protestors during the quota reform movement. These are some tracks that were released in the past month to fuel the rage and stand in solidarity with students.
Life as a Researcher at MIT and Princeton
MIT is dead set on making magnetic fusion work soon. As exciting as that prospect may seem, it is also anxiety-inducing.
Guiding the youth towards building a sustainable nation
The historic displays of youth power and potential for bringing positive changes make us think about the possible contribution of the young population in driving sustainable development in Bangladesh.
Should young commuters get a metro pass?
Because of the hassle-free experience and peace of mind it offers, metro passes have become essential to commuters, especially students.
Doing household chores is the secret to adulting
How doing household chores can help young adults build essential life skills, boost brain health, and improve overall well-being.
How the youth is contributing to flood relief in unique ways
From doing charity livestreams to selling SEO backlinks, the Bangladeshi youth is finding interesting avenues to generate funds for flood victims.
The need to recognise propaganda in pop culture
Popular culture is a product of its time, representing the politics and ideas of a specific era.
Shift
BMW to launch first hydrogen vehicle by 2028
BMW announced on Thursday that it intends to use fuel cell technology developed in partnership with Toyota Motor Corp. to launch its first hydrogen-powered vehicle on the market in 2028.
Shift / 10 interesting facts about BMW
Here are ten fascinating facts about BMW that you might not have heard before.
Ola electric hits $7 billion valuation after e-motorcycle launch and battery plan
Ola Electric Mobility, India’s leading e-scooter manufacturer, saw its valuation soar to 586.64 billion rupees ($6.99 billion) on Friday, following the launch of its new line of electric motorcycles.
Leasing model behind Europe's EV drive at risk of breakdown
Leasing companies play a pivotal role in Europe as 60% of new cars of all fuel types are leased, according to calculations by environmental group Transport & Environment based on data from market research firm Dataforce.
Honda SP160 launched in Bangladesh
Honda has recently launched the SP160 in Bangladesh, following the introduction of Honda SP125 last year. The 163-cc bike features a BS-VI PGM-FI engine and a full digital metre with anti-lock braking system (ABS) indicator, among other features.
Preparing your car for a safe Eid-ul-Adha journey
Eid-ul-Adha is approaching, and many of us have already planned to celebrate this occasion with our loved ones. As a result, many car owners will travel outside the major cities to be with family and relatives. To ensure a safe journey, it's crucial to check that your car is in good condition. Sadly, we often hear about accidents during the Eid period. To ensure safety and a smooth trip, car owners should check the following:
Tesla recalls over 125,000 vehicles in US
Tesla is officially recalling 125,227 vehicles in the United States, as per a recent announcement by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The cited reason for this mass recall is a seat belt warning system malfunction, which could potentially increase the risk of injuries in collisions.
Toyota unveils new 'adaptable' engines for both hybrid and biofuel cars
Toyota has recently unveiled a new line of compact 'adaptable' engines that are designed to work with both hybrid cars and those that run on biofuels. According to the company, these new engines are intended to reduce carbon emissions while catering to diverse customer needs.
Daily Star Books
BOOK REVIEW : FICTION / Riding the early years of motherhood through ‘Soldier Sailor’
While reading it, one might feel that they are reading a mother’s confessions while she takes care of her son.
BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / 'Thrice born': The journey of Bangladeshi literature in English
Bangladeshi Literature in English: Critical Essays and Interviews, edited by Mohammad A. Quayum and Md. Mahmudul Hasan, focuses on critical essays on Bangladeshi literature in English—both from Bangladesh and its diasporas (US, UK, and Australia).
THE SHELF / Diverging perspectives: Exploring Bangladesh’s history through controversial narratives
When it comes to the history of Bangladesh both pre-and post-Liberation War, certain aspects have either remained hidden from the public or been deliberately obscured.
EVENT REPORT / ‘Rebels with a cause’: In-Zine event celebrates the importance of self-published zines that challenge oppression
The experience was hands-on, intimate, and vulnerable, as many paid tribute to the lives lost in the July Revolution, as well as writing and creating art dedicated to their own personal struggles.
INTERVIEW / Into the world of speculative fiction: An Interview with 'Small World City'
This past August, Dhaka’s speculative fiction magazine 'Small World City' enjoyed their first anniversary. The magazine, over this last year, has published some of the more striking works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry coming out of the country
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Sufism and the emergence of Bengal’s syncretic culture
Review of ‘Needle at the Bottom of the Sea: Bengali Tales from the Land of the Eighteen Tides’ (University of California Press, 2023) translated by Tony K. Stewart
NEWS REPORT / In memory of Ghulam Murshid: Researcher, author, journalist
Murshid’s passing marks the end of an era in literature
ESSAY / Manufacturing praise
Sometime ago, a writer reached out to me with a request. His debut novel was being published later in the year and he was wondering if I would be open to reviewing it. I was aware of the book, having read it when it was still only a draft. The author was not someone I only knew, either, but a mentor who had supported my writing in many ways, even through monetary means. Refusing him, then, felt tantamount to betrayal. But I had to in the end, and though he understood, I still came out of the exchange feeling guilty of being unhelpful or, worse, ungrateful.
Star Holiday
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.
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.
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.
Iguazu Falls: Largest waterfall system on Earth
Diego Maradona. As we tread upon its soil for the first time, the richness and intricacy of its history unfolded before us.
Irresistable Antarctica
Mohua Rouf is one of the few Bangladeshis who have ever set foot on the world’s southernmost continent, Antarctica. She spent six days in the icy abode of penguins, seals and whales which is arguably the least-trodden place on earth by humans.
Marvellous Madrid
After the lifting of the Covid-19 lockdown, in September 2021, my husband and I visited Madrid, a city pulsating with history, art and energy.
Thailand’s highlands: A place for adventure and fun
In January of this year, my husband and I decided to embark on a trip to the Kanchanaburi and Phitsanulok provinces of Thailand. When you hear of Thailand,
Weekend Read
A battleground of change: Role of DU in social movements
The pulsating energy of Dhaka University campus works as a catalyst to inspire students and shape their conscience.
When floods came, students rose to challenge
Hundreds of students from Dhaka, Chattogram and districts in between were seen marching towards Feni on August 22. They travelled in trucks, with speedboats and life jackets, on a mission to rescue those stranded by the unprecedented floods that swept through the region.
Graffiti vs Regime
The early stages of the quota reform movement in Bangladesh saw the use of a subtle yet powerful language of protest: graffiti.
FROM RESISTANCE TO REVOLUTION / Women’s role in toppling the govt
A female student, her face streaked with blood, pleads with Chhatra League activists to stop the relentless beatings.
Barishal, a serene escape amid nature’s bounty
Surrounded by tall coconut and betel nut trees, picturesque ponds, and lagoons -- the green countryside makes Barishal a great city for local tourism.
FLOOD IN THE NORTH / A first-hand look into devastation
Is it a vast river, or a habitable land?
Evolving Identity: The changing face of Dhanmondi
The place has a chequered history. Compared to other areas of the city, Dhanmondi still retains its residential character to some extent, despite being home to commercial enterprises, educational institutes, restaurants, hospitals, diagnostic centres, and rising apartments.
