Life & Living
Dhaka’s saree styles return with a twist – jackets, shirts and cardigans galore
Winter in Dhaka brings stylish celebrations, with saree styling embracing timeless elegance. Faux furs, velvet jackets, and cardigan-blouse pairings revive vintage charm. From regal embroidery to soft cashmere shawls, winter wear radiates glamour and sophistication.
Finding the best kids’ winter wear in Dhaka – Without freezing your budget
Winter in Dhaka brings adorable kids' fashion essentials like printed socks, themed sweaters, puffer jackets, and fleece-lined leggings. From vibrant accessories to cosy wear, options span street markets, malls, and online stores across all budgets.
Don’t let winter skin ruin your vibe — Follow this simple skincare
Winter brings festive vibes with hot chocolate, soft blankets, and a foggy breeze to boost your spirit. Despite this, your skin tells a different tale when you glance in the mirror. Rash, itching, dryness, and cracked spots are some of the skin problems that might develop during this season.
Mild winter, major style: Essential light jackets and sweaters for Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s mild winter calls for light, stylish layers like jackets, shawls, and sweaters. Opt for breathable fabrics, neutral tones, and versatile accessories like scarves and gloves to stay comfortable and chic throughout the season.
Dhaka’s best budget buys for men’s winter wardrobe
Dhaka's winter fashion is now stylish and affordable with local brands offering quality options like blazers, shawls, jackets, and hoodies. Explore vibrant markets for budget-friendly deals and elevate your wardrobe with trendy seasonal essentials.
Your winter day trip won't be the same without these 10 must-haves
Winter day trips in Dhaka require essentials like layered clothing, a beanie, boots, gloves, and chap stick to stay comfortable. Moisturizer, sunscreen, a thermos with tea, a blanket, and a power bank ensures a smooth, cosy adventure.
Protect your kids from a world gone mad: Survival tips for modern parenting
Over the last few days, there have been quite a few newspaper headlines that are enough to induce distress in any person, especially if you are a parent. It appears that children’s lives are threatened and it is time to reiterate the measures, which can be taken to ensure their safety.
Want to be stronger, smarter, and safer? Try kickboxing
To explore the benefits of kickboxing and the reason for its growing popularity in Bangladesh, we recently spoke with Minhaz Remo – a certified strength and sports nutrition coach, a 2nd-degree black belt in ITF Taekwondo, and the Founder and Head Coach at Functional Performance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Showbiz
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Star Health
1 more die of dengue, 1,052 hospitalised
Of those latest infected, 242 patients were admitted to hospitals under Dhaka North City Corporation, while 151 were hospitalised in Dhaka South City Corporation
Urgent action needed: obesity crisis predicted to impact 260 million by 2050
A new study in The Lancet reveals a worsening obesity epidemic in the USA, with devastating health, social, and economic consequences predicted. By 2050, over 260 million Americans—213 million adults and 43 million children and adolescents—are expected to live with overweight or obesity.
World Prematurity Day / Access to quality care everywhere
An estimated 13.4 million babies are born preterm (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) in the world. At such a tender stage, the organs inside the baby are not fully developed. Unfortunately, premature birth is one of the leading causes of death in children under five.
The power of running
Running is a simple, yet powerful exercise that benefits both body and soul. Understanding these benefits, along with practical tips for staying motivated, can help you maximise the health rewards of running.
Global diabetes rates surpass 800 million, highlighting widening inequalities
A global study published in The Lancet ahead of World Diabetes Day reveals that over 828 million adults worldwide were living with diabetes in 2022—a fourfold increase since 1990. Notably, 445 million adults aged 30 and older, or 59%, did not receive treatment, with most of these untreated cases in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
World AMR Awareness Week / Are you willing to “go blue for AMR”?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of humanity’s top 10 global public health threats.
Satireday
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.
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.
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.
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.
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”.
Satire / ‘Natok Kom Koro Pio’
“Natok kom koro Pio,” the man said, his white beard shaking with fury.
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.
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.
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
BREAKING BARRIERS / The Journey of British-Bengali Women in Higher Education
In recent years, British-Bengali women have made significant strides in higher education, challenging stereotypes and overcoming systemic barriers. Drawing on in-depth interviews, this article delves into their journey, highlighting the challenges and achievements of these young women as they navigate their way through university and beyond.
BIRTH CENTENARY OF KHAN SARWAR MURSHID / The Last Romantic
In 1961, the Arts Faculty of the University of Dhaka was still located at the southern end of Dhaka Medical College and Hospital. It was there, under the high-ceilinged rooms with their antique benches that Dr Khan Sarwar Murshid taught the MA English Preliminary students.
Blood on the Barred Walls: The 1975 Jail Killing Revisited
In 1975, Bangladesh’s political landscape was irrevocably altered by the brutal assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and almost his entire family (except for his two daughters, who were abroad) at their Dhanmondi 32 residence.
From Sultanate to Mughal: The Architectural Legacy of Bengal
In conversation with Professor Perween Hasan, distinguished historian and expert on architecture of the Indian subcontinent
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and the Muslim Renaissance in South Asia
This year marks the 207th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, who was born into a prominent family with ties to the Mughal court in Delhi on 17 October 1817, and passed away on 27 March 1898.
From Controversy to Classic: Lal Shalu After 75 Years
Syed Waliullah’s (1922-1971) debut novel Lal Shalu drew significant attention upon its release but faced mixed reviews, including outright rejection. Since then, it has been translated into multiple languages, adapted for the stage, and made into a film. Today, it is regarded as the first major modern novel by a Bengali Muslim writer.
50TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY / Abul Hashim and Revisiting the United Bengal Plan (1946-47)
Fifty years ago, in October 1974, Abul Hashim, a prominent political leader of the then dissolved Bengal Provincial Muslim League (BPML) breathed his last in Bangladesh, leaving behind an important political legacy now long forgotten.
“Reform must come from the people”
The 1969 Mass Uprising was primarily focused on achieving either provincial autonomy or independence, which ultimately led to the Liberation War in 1971.
Star Youth
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.
Navigating life as an only child
The absence of siblings did not make me lonely. Instead, it taught me to value deep, meaningful connections with those I allow in my life.
Being nice is underrated
While we continuously chase compliments on our looks, success, skills, and abilities, we often overlook the impact of being nice or kind on people, including ourselves. We fail to realise the weight of what it truly means to be kind and nice.
Violence against stray animals has to stop
Cruelty against cats and dogs has long persisted. These poor creatures remain vulnerable and often go unfed, kicked, or even beaten to death on the streets. Such acts of violence are a blatant destruction of human law. Nevertheless, it is disturbingly accepted as a common occurrence when it comes to strays.
Dealing with PCOS at an early age
PCOS is associated with significant health risks, including infertility, increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. It can also impact the psychological well-being of women, particularly those dealing with hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and menstrual irregularities, which may lead to depression or anxiety.
Debunking dark mode myths
Dark mode isn’t really a recent technological invention and those who are into programming know that it's been around since the digital revolution started.
Adopt, don’t shop: The case against buying pets
Stray cats and dogs live a life marred by abuse and normalised cruelty, often passing away from extreme starvation and malnutrition. One adoption is one more animal saved from a short life and a painful death.
Are you thinking of getting into volunteering?
Many students have opted for volunteering as an activity to enhance their CVs and better equip themselves for securing future opportunities. Universities and employers value volunteer experience as it demonstrates commitment and a willingness to help others. However, many often jump at the first opportunity without considering whether it aligns with their goals and values.
Shift
Batmobile from 'The Dark Knight' now on sale for $2.99 million
Warner Bros. Discovery is offering a highly exclusive, screen-accurate replica of the Batmobile used by Christian Bale’s Batman for a staggering $2.99 million, in honour of Batman’s 85th anniversary.
Tesla to recall 2,400 Cybertrucks over safety issues
Tesla has announced a recall of 2,431 of its recently launched Cybertruck pickups in the US, citing a potential risk of drive power loss which could heighten the chance of crashes.
Electric air taxi test flight successfully conducted in Japan
Joby Aviation, Inc., a company specialising in electric air taxis, has successfully completed its first international exhibition flight in Japan. The flight recently took place at Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Shizuoka.
Toyota and NTT to invest $3.26 bln in autonomous driving research
Toyota Motor Corp. and the Japanese telecom company Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. (NTT) are investing 500 billion yen ($3.26 billion) in artificial intelligence research and development to create advanced software aimed at making autonomous driving safer.
Google parent's self-driving car company raises $5.6 bln funding
Waymo, the self-driving car company owned by Google's parent Alphabet, has recently raised $5.6 billion in its latest funding round. The round included major investors such as Andreessen Horowitz, Fidelity, Perry Creek, Silver Lake, Tiger Global, and T. Rowe Price.
Press Release / Ifad initiates Bangladesh's first AC bus export to Bhutan
Ifad Autos Ltd. has begun exporting buses from Bangladesh for the first time, with an initial shipment of 11 air-conditioned buses sent to Bhutan.
Shift / Tesla to push for more affordable EVs in 2025
Tesla has reiterated its commitment to launching a more affordable electric vehicle (EV) in early 2025.
Shift / Bangladeshi drivers win big at Malaysian Festival of Speed 2024
Bangladeshi drivers Kashfia Arfa, Arhaam Rahman, and Fahad Gaffor made history at the 2024 Malaysian Festival of Speed.
Daily Star Books
THE SHELF / 5 Postcolonial novels: Voices from the Bengal Province
Here is a short list of her chants in fiction, creating a narrative of Bangali postcolonial resistance
BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Taking folk melodies of Bangladesh to the world
Folk Melody of Bangladesh: An Anthology of Bangladesh Folk Music in Standard Notation is a music anthology that compiles 204 carefully chosen folk songs of Bangladesh that date from the 16th century.
BOOK REVIEW: GRAPHIC NOVEL / Down the rabbit hole of science and art
The city of Prague, now the capital of the Czech Republic, was once the breeding hotspot of the 20th century’s greatest writers, scientists, scholars, and activists.
UK writer Samantha Harvey wins 2024 Booker with space novel
It is the 49-year-old Harvey's fifth novel, winning 15 years after her debut book "The Wilderness" was longlisted for the prize.
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / ‘86 – Eighty Six’: How the light novel series depicts the humanity of dehumanised children
These nuanced characterisations of those who have suffered terribly and are desperately trying to rebuild themselves are what have kept me hooked to the series.
THE SHELF / Post-July remembrance
With the departure of an autocrat and the period of semi-expected-still-frightening chaos after, comes the period when we have to sit down to think of what comes ahead, know what we must not do, and get some direction on how we are supposed to go on. In light of this, the following articles and/or chapters have been curated for perspectives that might be needed in this unprecedented situation we’ve found ourselves in.
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Sad men behaving badly
In January 2023, I was sitting in the crowd, listening in on a panel at the 10th and possibly the final edition of the Dhaka Lit Fest. Sheikh Hasina had already been in power for almost 15 years, and it felt like the sun would never set on Awami League, at least not in my lifetime.
BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Unravelling Yuval Noah Harari’s ‘Nexus’
Review of ‘Nexus’ (Random House, 2024)
Star Holiday
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.
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.
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.
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.
Weekend Read
How Bangladesh can reduce lightning deaths
As the sky darkens and the familiar rumble of thunder echoes across the horizon, farmers and fishermen working in open fields and water bodies sense the imminent danger of lightning. In Bangladesh, lightning is one of the deadliest natural disasters, claiming hundreds of lives each year.
The eco-warriors of Bangladesh
Estiak Ahmed Sajit is currently a third-year student at Khulna University. In 2007, his family was forcibly displaced from Rajbari to Keraniganj due to river erosion.
Restoring vision, restoring lives
Imagine a world where everything looks faded. The colours around you do not seem as enchanting as they once appeared; your children no longer ask you to sew that hemline or help with the accounts. Memories fade fast along with your eyesight and you slowly begin to feel useless.
A compartment of their own
I remember the first time I stepped into the female compartment in the metro, I knew this marked a significant difference in the commute experience of women.
Durga Puja, a festival of faith and togetherness
As dawn breaks and the first rays of sunlight streams through your window, you hear the rhythmic beat of drums and the joyful clanging of cymbals coming from a nearby temple.
From earth to elegance: The allure of artisanal terracotta
A charcoal black druid’s bowl with a rough and aged look, caught my attention while surfing social media. Initially, I thought it must be an antique piece of medieval pottery up for sale on some transcontinental site, but instead, I found it to be a local product from the brand Boho Bangladesh, promoting a sustainable natural lifestyle; it blew my mind.
How Bangladeshi freelancers are rebuilding after July’s internet shutdown
Sudiptta Apu, a graphic designer based in Khulna, was on the verge of completing a $600 project when everything went dark -- literally.