Life & Living
Kishwar Chowdhury: Discussing life, food, cookbook and her latest collaborations
Having both sides of East and West Bengal at home, Kishwar Chowdhury was able to broaden her palette. Her father, who’s from Bikrampur, is someone she describes as a ‘wholesome and hearty cook.’ Hence, neharis, biriyanis and bhunas remained his M O in the kitchen. Through her mother, who’s from Burdwan, she was introduced to meals that required light and delicate ingredients. “Growing up with my father’s Nawabi, Bengal-Mughal inspired dishes and my mother’s lighter dishes, we really had the best of Bengal at home.”
Which artist do you fancy?
Art is a very intricate and emotional field that has the power to connect on a personal level with us. Many great names have established a strong connection to others with a stroke of their brushes. From the bold, vibrant and dramatic portraits of Van Gogh to the minimal and natural style of Frank Stella, there are many artists who have managed to capture our hearts and open up the creative corner in our minds with their work.
A walk through the art of custom-painted sneakers
The passion the artists put behind these custom-painted sneakers makes them stand out in their own way.
Empowering change: Shaathi marks Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023 with reusable pad-making workshop
Social enterprise Shaathi Bangladesh Limited organised a workshop for making reusable pads on 28 May, 2023, on the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023. The workshop was held at the Edward M Kennedy (EMK) Centre in Dhanmondi, Dhaka.
Top 5 desert holidays you can plan for your next vacation
When we think of vacations, we usually think of beaches and mountains. What skips our minds most of the time are the wonderous deserts. We often forget the enticing and magnificent landscapes that can be serene, wild and even mysterious. Desert safaris can be very hectic but definitely worth it if you are someone who is up for adventures. Here are 5 deserts you should definitely keep in mind when planning your next vacation.
7 after-school snack ideas for your children
No matter how old your child is, they look forward to coming home after a long day at school and eating their favourite snack before starting homework or going for tuition. The following are 7 easy to make recipes for snacks that your children will simply love. Adding these simple homemade snacks into their weekly routine can be a healthy choice.
Sole Artistry: The art of painting sneakers with Labaebaa
The art of expressing oneself knows no limits, be it through words, images, art or even the Spotify playlist you made for that one individual in your coaching centre. With the onset of keeping up with all things trendy, one of the most common forms of expressing oneself is through what you wear. Sneakers have been a fashion statement for eons due to their varying shapes, colourways and the way they can perfectly complete an outfit and one’s style of clothing.
7 most fascinating bridges in Asia to visit
Asia is home to some of the most breath-taking bridges in the world. These magnificent structures not only serve the purpose of connecting two separate points but also capture the attention of anyone who can appreciate architectural ingenuity and innovation. In this article, we intend to explore some of the most exquisite bridges of our continent that exhibit the region's exceptional engineering and artistic skills
Arts & Entertainment
Snapshots of history—Golam Mustafa meets Manzoor Alam Beg
Modhurimay Alap (Swapno ‘71, 2023) transcribes two days of conversations with the late Golam Mustafa, first Director of Photography of Bangladesh Television.
Naeem Mohaiemen discusses ‘Midnight’s Third Child’ at ULAB and Bengal Institute
Naeem Mohaiemen called the book and its selections, which comprise fairly short essays and editorials on contemporary matters, “an argument for somehow recording all that seems ephemeral, so we can then look back and trace what was happening.”
Poluck's 'Kabitanjali' released on Rabindra Jayanti
On the the occasion of Rabindra Jayanti 'Saregama Bengali' has released a collection of six timeless poems from Rabindranath Tagore.
There’s a new book out soon. Is it by Taylor Swift or BTS?
The guessing game began a few days ago, when an anonymous, untitled book scheduled for July 9, “4C Untitled Flatiron Nonfiction Summer 2023”, had Taylor Swift fans so convinced she had written a memoir that they made it a bestseller.
Billboard removed from Ayub Bachchu's Rupali Guitar sculpture
After much criticism, authorities of Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) have removed a billboard from the Rupali Guitar sculpture premises at Prabartak Mor in the port city
Literature showcases a different side to the Korean Wave
The books coming out of Korea are brutal in how they push the audience right back into the bleakness of reality
‘The Hunger Games’ and the danger of desensitisation to violence
In making the Hunger Games unglamorous, Suzanne Collins challenges the audience to reflect on how they view violence in entertainment
How you too can nearly, almost, probably become a Jedi Knight
At its core, 'Star Wars' is a classic tale of underdogs taking on a powerful enemy; it's a story of hope and perseverance, of standing up for what's right even when the odds are against you.
Showbiz
Tanzika Amin’s remarkable return
Stepping back into the game with grace and poise, Tanzika reflects on her remarkable comeback, shedding light on the industry's challenges and more with Star Showbiz.
A new action hero in town
With a manly look, brilliant dance moves, and amazing acting skills, Ador Azad has caught the audience's attention this Eid with his film, “Local”. His on-screen chemistry with Bubly was a treat to the eyes.
Perennially Pritom
From making us cry with “Bhenge Porona” to making us fall in love with “Morey Jak”- Pritom Hasan’s success spree continues as Coke Studio’s “Deora” reigns supreme in playlists of the youth.
Urbee flies high
The former Miss World Bangladesh contestant came for a cup of coffee with The Daily Star and revealed all about her love for acting.
The future is bright for Roshan
"The first thing I noticed was that it is a challenge to make good films regularly," the actor shared on his journey into the film industry.
Sabila Nur's all round brilliance
Sabila Nur broke the internet a week ago, because many didn’t believe that a full-time actress could score a CGPA of 3.97, like she did. Through her more than decade-long career, Sabila has actually been silently brilliant for a long time.
Sadia aims for the stars
Sadia’s charm flared as she appeared on the screen with some of the romantic projects, including Mizanur Rahman Aryan’s “Phooler Namey Naam”, which was the first big break in her career.
The Siam sensation continues
His dedication brought him national level recognition, further elevating his career with one after another remarkable projects.
Star Health
3 more die of dengue
Three people died of dengue and 97 others were hospitalised across the country in the last 24 hours till yesterday morning.
Urge to governments to stop subsidising life-threatening tobacco crops
On World No Tobacco Day (31st May), the World Health Organisation (WHO) calls upon governments worldwide to end subsidies for tobacco farming and instead support the cultivation of sustainable crops that can alleviate hunger and food insecurity for millions of people.
Duality in human nature
At the end of the 19th century, Scottish author Robert Stevenson wrote a classic story about the two sides of human nature called ‘The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ where he wrote about the duality of human nature.
Tobacco harm reduction framework necessary to achieve PM’s smoke-free vision by 2040
Health experts and policymakers gathered at the Bangladesh THR Summit 2023 on May 27, 2023, to discuss the role of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) in achieving a ‘Smoke-free Bangladesh’ by 2040.
Women experiencing early-life physical or sexual abuse have excess early mortality
Childhood or adolescent physical and sexual abuse has been found to have long-term negative effects on health and mortality in adulthood. A recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) examined data from 68,000 women who participated in the US Nurses Health Study. The researchers focused on the role of mental health conditions and lifestyle patterns in mediating the associations between early-life abuse and adverse health outcomes.
Timing of gestational diabetes screening: is earlier always better?
Gestational diabetes (GD) is a condition that affects pregnant women and can have potential health risks for both the mother and the baby. Currently, there is a debate about when to screen for GD and whether early screening and treatment provide better outcomes.
Healthy habits start early: national youth wellness festival
ULAB in Dhaka hosted the first Youth Wellness Festival, targeting university students and focusing on mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health. The event drew 200 students who engaged in a full day of activities exploring healthy living. The festival will continue at other universities in Dhaka in the following weeks.
Country logs first Covid deaths in 2 months
Bangladesh reported two more Covid-19 deaths in 24 hours till 8:00am yesterday, read a press release of the Directorate General of Health Services.
Satireday
‘Marriage aspirants’ joining ‘Chirokumar Sova’ after decision on marriage tax
The Dhoka West City Corporation (DWCC) has taken the notion of thinking outside the box to another level.
Marks and Sponsor, Life and Living post record profits
Marks and Sponsor Limited (M&S) and Life and Living Group of Company’s (LLG) profits rose respectively by 17.75 percent and 20.25 percent year-on-year in the last financial year.
Preparation for Los Angeles ’28
The Chapasthan government has started a new initiative in its capital of Dhoka with an aim to prepare the future athletes for athletic events in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
Company offers Cyclone Tourism package starting at Tk 85k++
Amoral Travel Agency has announced a brand new, extensive tourism package for people eager to escape the drudgery, grime and anxiety of city life and experience a refreshing change that will wash all of that, and more, away.
‘Coincidence? I think not’
On a fateful day, Officers Abul and Kabul arrested a student during a protest against the price hike of kidney dialysis. The arrestee was defiant of the police officers, making preposterous arguments about freedom of speech and the right to protest, which had really ticked the officers off.
Real seek entry into Farmgate coaching centre after failing English test
Real Madrid players have reportedly come to Bangladesh hoping for admission to a well-known coaching centre of Farmgate after they failed their English test, held in Etihad exam hall on English soil.
Creeps and stalkers consider filing lawsuit due to mental trauma caused by friend request glitch
“The real victims in this tragedy are the ones who didn’t get any friend requests despite the glitch and me,” said Mark.
Cutting trees to make way for air
In a bid to help citizens during the ongoing heatwave, the Dhoka South Town Corporation has launched a tree-cutting drive across the southern parts of the capital.
TOGGLE
These 10 startups are leading the good fight against plastic pollution
Here are some of the top startups dedicated to cutting down plastic waste that are worth watching out for if you share a passion for recycling and environmental preservation.
A step-by-step guide on exactly how plastic destroys the environment
Plastic, once hailed as a remarkable innovation, has become an environmental nightmare.
Here's why Electric Vehicles are better for the environment
One of the most compelling reasons why electric vehicles are better for the environment is their significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Uber working to resume card payment services in Bangladesh
Ride-sharing platform Uber is planning on resuming its card payment services for their customers in Bangladesh.
ASUS clinches multiple Best Choice Awards at Computex 2023
Global technology brand ASUS recently achieved significant recognition at the Computex 2023 Best Choice Awards for its product performance spanning multiple categories including laptops, healthcare, components and motherboards.
KhelaHobe: Bringing the sports community of Bangladesh under one roof
KhelaHobe is a sports-community platform that enables you to engage in sports activities throughout your daily life.
Like no one ever was
With that, another weekend rolls in, bringing in better promises for a brighter future.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S: The luxurious Civic Type R
The Acura Integra Type S marks the return of a beloved sports car that captured the hearts of enthusiasts during its initial run. This highly anticipated resurrection promises a fusion of classic design cues, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance.
In Focus
1857: The Uprising in Delhi and Its Brutal Suppression
The great revolt of 1857 was a momentous struggle against colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent—the most widespread anti-colonial struggle during the nineteenth century.
1857: The uprising in Delhi and its brutal suppression
The great revolt of 1857 was a momentous struggle against colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent—the most widespread anti-colonial struggle during the nineteenth century.
'Guha was as much an intellectual and thinker as he was a historian'
Ranajit Guha ( May 23, 1923 - April 28, 1923) was an influential Indian historian and scholar renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of Subaltern Studies.
Only Connect: The Radical Empathy of Mrinal Sen
In a few days, the whole world will celebrate the centenary of Sen: the man who changed India’s cinematic landscape forever.
Why Sampadak Parishad opposes the Digital Security Act
After the enactment of the Digital Security Act (DSA) in 2018, the Sampadak Parishad published an elaborate
The Struggle for Justice and Dignity
The labour movement in Bangladesh has a rich and complex history that dates back to the 19th century.
Honouring Mujibnagar heroes
April 17, 1971, is a historic day that shines brightly in the collective memory of Bangladesh with immense pride, unwavering strength, and boundless enthusiasm.
Honouring André Malraux’s Legacy
During the middle of the past century, two Frenchmen were known and admired around the world. They were General de Gaulle and André Malraux.
Star Youth
5 YouTube channels to learn mobile app development
Check out these five well-curated YouTube channels that will help you build your first mobile application.
The bittersweet experience of planning your school’s senior week
The memories you take back with you will be worth it.
Why there’s a lack of English medium students applying to public universities
It’s commonly seen that participation from English medium students is comparatively much lower.
What it takes to get into DU “Cha” unit
Exam strategies are open to change every year, so the applicants must stay updated about that.
The problem with too much discipline in schools
Schools should also be a place students look back upon fondly, not a totalitarian regime they would grow up to hate for the rest of their lives.
How credible are your research sources?
Healthy scepticism is celebrated even in the scientific world, so why not practise it?
Public libraries could solve our public space problem
There needs to be a push for a strong public library culture in Dhaka.
Rethinking education and future skills
Staying relevant translates to positive outcomes for people.
Shift
Car fluids: What you should know
Here's a quick refresher on the essential car fluids and the basic information you should know about them.
A complete list of all the cars featured in Fast X
If you love your family and your cars equally, then the latest iteration of the Fast & Furious franchise will not leave you disappointed.
50 years later, Hyundai has rebuilt its very first concept car
Hyundai has resurrected its very first concept car, the Pony Coupe, showcasing it in all its retro glory at the prestigious 2023 Villa d'Este Concours in Lake Como.
The all-new and improved Porsche: 718 Spyder RS
The latest addition to Porsche's 718 lineup promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience like no other, equivalent to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS.
Maintaining cars during extreme summer heat
Those who commute every day will also often find that cars tend to get heated quickly when under the extreme summer heat. Here are some basic maintenance tips to keep in mind to keep your car cool even during summer.
Glanza V: the hot hatch from the late 90s
This particular Glanza V, owned by local car enthusiast Momtahin Hassan Ingit, was restored from the ground up. The sporty design with the side skirts, trunk spoiler and hood scoop makes it as evergreen as it can get.
Toyota bZ4X - The new electric SUV on the block
With commuting in mind, one of the first completely electronic subcompact SUVs from Toyota - the brand new bZ4X - looks to shake up a few things in the world of EVs.
Meet the locally modded Toyota Altezza
This Altezza, owned by local car enthusiast Ishan Gausul, is a 1999 model that began its life as an RS200, and in 2017, it was the only dual-tone Altezza in Bangladesh.
Daily Star Books
UPL Summer Book Fair 2023 underway
Some of UPL’s best selling titles include 'Political Parties in India' (2022) by Abdul Razzaq and a Bangla translation of Yuval Noah Harari’s 'Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind' (2014).
Like father, unlike son: Martin Amis’s place in literature
Perhaps Martin Amis’s works do not grab me for the most part because it veers too far away from the humanism of, say, Saul Bellow—a writer Martin greatly admires and has written about extensively.
Racism and geopolitics in South Africa
Institutional racism in colonies, migration, flawed anti-monarchy sentiments stemming from personal vendettas, and the need for rebellion permeate the lives of these characters.
The rebels of Madhusudan
Neeldhaja is the first Bangla poem to be written in the form of a letter; it places a female figure with a rebellious demeanor as the protagonist of a historical narrative.
Everybody hates fantasy. Let’s talk about it.
Based on anecdotal evidence, complaints about the genre being “pure escapism”, “childish” and “uninteresting” are common. There are also reviews which accuse fantasy literature of being “formulaic”, “out of touch” and even “outdated”.
Random House Canada accepting open submissions from underrepresented writers
Following submission, the editorial team will respond to writers they are interested within six months.
A Rajshahi University scholar who has helped little magazines thrive
Four little magazines have been published under his editorship.
5 own voices romance books that will warm your heart
The path towards truly diverse representation in literature necessitates that marginalised authors are given the chance to tell their own stories and shape our understanding of diverse experiences.
Star Holiday
Morocco: a timeless wonder
Nestled between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco unveils a treasure trove of vibrant colours, cultural heritage, and centuries-old traditions that captivate a traveller. From the mesmerising Sahara desert to picturesque beaches, majestic mountains, bustling souks, delectable cuisine, and enchanting riads, Morocco seamlessly blends the allure of bygone eras with the modern world.
Meghalaya land of majestic waterfalls
It was a hilly meandering road skirting the India-Bangladesh border. By-passing a dense betel nut orchard, our car was heading towards Syndai, a village of Meghalaya.
Around the world on a Vespa: The ‘no-plan’ nomadic life
For those of us wedded and welded to our routine-ruled existences, there is an almost jealous fascination about people like Vespanda Ilario Lavarra.
The Galapagos: The land of evolution
They say the beauty of the Galapagos can’t be explained. It can only be experienced.
The yellow days in Hanoi
When I visited Hanoi in 2019, I only had a chance to catch a whiff of Vietnam’s capital. I took a glance at all the splotches of yellow architecture in awe and had little to no idea how to navigate myself in a town that hardly communicated in English. But even then, Hanoi found a place of eternal fondness in my heart and gave me a gift of familiarity that I couldn’t make much sense of at the time.
Lobhachhara and the great Nanka
In late October 2021, my quest for documenting tea-planters’ graves around the country brought me to Looba Cherra tea garden.
Dzo Zongo East Mission accomplished
Why do you climb? Why do you risk everything over scaling a summit?
Weekend Read
Gone are the days of glory
There was a time not so long ago when Bangladesh Film Development Corporation was abuzz with various activities -- from shooting films to dubbing and editing.
Abahani vs Mohammedan: Worth gold in nostalgia
Almost every major football crazy city in the world has a historic club rivalry that it can brag about. Kolkata, London, Manchester, Milan, Madrid – you name it and there’s at least one colourful and storied rivalry to whet the appetite of football fans.
A trip down Dhaka Derby lane
After joining Abahani from BJMC in 1984, I had to endure abusive words from the fans for some off-target shots during a practice session ahead of the match against Mohammedan.
Destroying the last line of defence
Coastal residents at great risk of cyclones as mangrove forests cut down, leased and grabbed for ‘development’
Need to protect mangroves for coastal people
Kamal Hossen is a recently retired professor at the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Science of Chattogram University. In a conversation with The Daily Star, he emphasised the importance of the conservation of mangrove forests.
Fire hazard in city markets: No lesson learnt
When one enters the building of Sharif Market on Chittaranjan Avenue in Sadarghat, there is a feeling of suffocation, despite the empty spaces between the eight-storey building. The building has been identified as risky in terms of fire safety. However, it only has nine fire extinguishers.
Fire safety in a precarious state
Fire safety in Dhaka’s market buildings is in a very precarious condition, which has increased vulnerabilities for people and properties associated with these markets. The recent fire incidents in Bangabazar and Dhaka New Super Market are testimonies of these harsh realities prevailing in the capital, said Dr Adil Mohammed Khan, executive director of Institute for Planning and Development (IPD), during an interview with The Daily Star yesterday.
