Life & Living
Blouse: The ultimate saree game-changer
Ah! The Bengali woman and her saree! A story replete with love, memories, style and grace.
Behold the bold: Exploring eye makeup
When opting for a smoky eye, do not just rub some dark eyeshadow and call it a day!
Bhutan reduces fees for Bangladeshi tourists
Department of Tourism of Bhutan notified that it has revised its policy for Bangladeshi tourists
5 things to do to protect yourself from lightning
Protecting yourself from lightning to avoid being electrocuted is a serious matter. More on this over here.
Looking for plus-size clothing for women? There's solution at Zaria's
Zaria’s, focuses on plus-size women's wear, addressing a long-overlooked segment of the market.
Let the madness set in: How to watch ICC Men's T20 World Cup?
Before everyone starts rooting for their favourite team, the burning question at the moment is how can you watch the games?
Tarot: Our life stories on cards
Here, we explore how tarot can be a powerful form of self-care
5 cool and casual style guides for the girls this summer
During rainy summer days, followed by immediate heatwaves - cotton, khadi, and linen are good options to pick from.
Arts & Entertainment
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.
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
BFAA secretary post: Dipjol moves SC over HC injunction
A petition was filed with the Supreme Court today seeking a stay on a High Court order that issued an injunction restraining Monwar Hossain Dipjol from performing as general secretary of the Bangladesh Film Artistes Association (BFAA) for six months
'Squid Game' star found guilty of sexual misconduct
South Korea's "Squid Game" actor O Yeong-su has been found guilty of sexual misconduct, a local court said Friday, after he was charged with assaulting a woman in 2017
Songs of Pahela Baishakh
The soul-stirring melodies of Bangla songs resonate with the essence of the largely agrarian Bangalee people, weaving tales of joy, hope, aspiration, and the story of our journey as a nation.
Showbiz
Bhabna ‘Cannes’ do it
The usual scenario of attending any film festival is that artistes go to showcase their films. An unusual scenario took place when Bangladeshi actress Ashna Habib Bhabna returned from the 77th Cannes International Film Festival, after scoring a Malaysian movie.
Ananta-Barsha’s unconditional love
The atmosphere at The Daily Star office brightened as the couple complimented each other's attire for the photo shoot, blending Western and Eastern styles. While Barsha opted for a Pakistani suit in blue and red, Ananta Jalil, the dashing action star, looked striking in a white suit and brown-golden Gucci shirt and grey pants.
Neel on the reel
You know her as an anchor who has made her mark by hosting cricket shows in particular. Notably, Neel Hurerzahan began her journey in showbiz a decade ago as a radio jockey. Slowly she stepped into the world of acting, and also worked in the popular OTT platform Chorki, as a partnership officer.
Partho’s cricketing dreams transform into a filmy one
During an exclusive photoshoot and adda with The Daily Star, Partho talked about his acting and directorial journey while also spilling some beans on upcoming projects.
The ‘bad guy’ emerges as ‘hero’
Recently, he shed his ‘greyish demeanour’ to penetrate into the role of a love-torn groom in Zahid Pritom’s “Buk Poketer Golpo”. The actor shared an interesting story as to how his own phobia was incorporated into the hyper-linked web-film.
Pavel brings globality to your ‘living room’
You might know him as the drummer for Chirkutt, but Pavel has been especially prominent in the music industry as a music producer, dominating the ad film market and lending his talents to films like “Saturday Afternoon”, “Television”, “Doob”, “Piprabidya” and more.
Nawshaba undeterred, Nawshaba undeniable
Nawshaba's journey has not been devoid of challenges. Despite her talent and dedication, she has often found herself being overlooked by the media and industry insiders. “How many times do I have to prove myself?" she mused, highlighting the uphill battle faced by many artistes striving to carve out their niche in the industry.
When a boy from Azimpur carries Bangladeshi rap
In the world of Bangla rap, few names carry as much weight and influence as Black Zang. His journey, intricately entwined with the rise of Bangla rap culture, is a testament to artistic evolution, cultural amalgamation, and the power of storytelling through music. In the vibrant and ever-evolving realm of hip-hop music, Black Zang stands out as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Star Health
Essentials now luxuries as the poor reel from price shock: CPD
People in Bangladesh have been forced to spend more on food compared to consumers in other countries, and the prices of essentials have surged to such an extent that they have become luxury items for many, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) said yesterday.
Managing extreme heat: Understanding risks and protective measures
Globally, the environment is changing very rapidly, and one of its effects is the change in atmospheric temperature. In the last few decades, we did not face such hot and humid weather. Nowadays, temperatures surge up to 41–42°C, and due to high
16 dengue patients hospitalised
Sixteen people were hospitalised with dengue fever in 24 hours till yesterday morning.
Rights of disabled children in Bangladesh
Every child has the right to live independently. In Bangladesh, there is a significant population of disabled children,
Managing eczema: essential tips for relief
Dealing with eczema involves adopting specific habits to alleviate symptoms. Here are some essential tips:. 1. Keep your nails short: Trim and file your nails smooth to avoid skin damage from scratching. If necessary, use your hand's side or top to scratch. . 2. Cool down:
Understanding and treating hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern characterised by dark patches caused by excess pigment within the skin due to increased melanin production. Melanin, responsible for skin colour, can become irregularly dispersed, leading to hyperpigmentation. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) o
Enhancing well-being through therapeutic activities for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
Therapeutic activities play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's disease, promoting happiness, relaxation, and overall health. These activities encompass a broad range of actions, from physical presence and social interaction to engaging in arts and crafts or
Vitamin A plus campaign for 2.2cr children June 1
However, the campaign would not be possible in many centres in the coastal areas, which are affected by Cyclone Remal
Satireday
Satire / Visa aspirants buying air coolers to get quick approvals
Economists, as well as those who don’t bother to understand economics, have been baffled by the findings of a recent market research which showed a sharp rise in people buying air coolers even before the heatwave started..They were shocked, more mercilessly than the shock Real Madrid gave
Athletes stop learning new skills at age 28
Shattering conventional wisdom, a Bangladeshi sports scientist claimed that his new research proves that athletes stop learning as soon as they turn 28.
Low salary and poor increment actually beneficial to employees: study
Money apparently is not the root of all evil. Neither is it the ticket to happiness. In fact, money ceases to matter at all now that watermelon in Dhaka costs more than the monthly food cost of a family of chickens.
‘My husband isn’t husbanding right’
I had an arranged marriage. My parents picked out the best suitor for me and I trusted them.
Man escapes Dhaka after attending fire safety workshop
An employee of a paper company in the capital’s Farmgate has been absent without official leave ever since he attended a fire safety workshop at work.
Employer refuses to give workers raises because they will get mugged if they have money
A car company has stunned industry insiders with a revolutionary new approach that improves workers’ quality of life and reduces the pressure on company coffers all at once. By refusing to give employees their scheduled raises and keeping them dangerously close to the edge of poverty, Stellar Motors -- Dhaka’s largest automobile importer -- is confident it can reduce the risk of employees being robbed in the streets and losing the little wealth they might still possess.
When Readers Write / Families with less than 3 members to merge
The government has recently announced its plan to address the problem of small families.
Organisations tackle inflation squeeze by introducing ‘Pay-To-Work’ policy
February has passed but employees at several major business firms have still not received any yearly increment or contract renewal. Employees are having difficulty making ends meet, what with rice and essentials doubling in price. Transport costs have gone up even though diesel price has been reduced by Tk 0.75.
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
125th Birth Anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam / Symbolic and Imaginary in Nazrul Islam
Kazi Nazrul Islam, according to Kazi Abdul Wadud (1895-1970), perhaps the first formidable critic who took him seriously, “was the first writer among Bengali Muslims of the modern era who was able to conquer the hearts of Hindus and Muslims alike of Bengal.”
Steam Power and Scientific Knowledge in Early British Bengal
In Europe, steam power evolved gradually and uncertainly over the course of the eighteenth century, with innovative peaks and long plateaus, from Thomas Savery’s steam pump (1698) via Thomas Newcomen’s reciprocating atmospheric engine (1712) to James Watt and Matthew Boulton’s double-acting rotative steam engine with a separate condenser (1765-90).
Rabindranath Tagore and the creation of national identity
Rabindranath Tagore is perhaps the only poet whose songs were chosen as the national anthems of two countries: India and Bangladesh.
BIRTH CENTENARY OF KALIM SHARAFI / A life dedicated to cultural activism
“I firmly believe in the profound impact of music, dance, and acting on shaping people’s thoughts and emotions.
Thus Spoke Sher-e-Bangla
I deem it a great privilege and pleasure to preside over this Convocation of the University of Dacca; and to join you in offering my blessings and good wishes for the success and prosperity of those graduates who have been admitted to various degrees today.
The Baropakhya Christians: A forgotten incidence of peasant repression in colonial Bengal
The Blue or Indigo Mutiny of 1861, was an outpouring of anger by Indian peasants coerced into cultivating the unprofitable indigo crop by British planters.
A freedom fighter’s journey to Mujibnagar
The necessity that was felt a few days after the Declaration of Independence of Bangladesh was that of a Government which could take upon itself the burden of directing the liberation struggle.
Star Youth
To foster creativity, we must understand its fluidity
Embrace creativity beyond traditional notions; it's not just for geniuses. Cherish everyday innovations to nurture your creative potential.
Why it is important to step out of your comfort circle
Stepping out of your comfort zone leads to personal growth, new experiences, and valuable networking opportunities.
Why do we attach our self-worth to achievements?
Explore overcoming the harmful belief that self-worth is tied to achievements and finding genuine self-acceptance.
The experience of being a woman stand-up comedian in Bangladesh
In conversation with Poushi Razzaque, a young stand-up comedian.
Understanding religious scriptures and finding spirituality
In Muslim households, children are taught to read the Quran from start to finish. But that’s the thing, they are taught to read, not understand it
Maintaining a sense of freedom in a controlling household
Going out with friends, choosing a job, how to spend their time, what to wear, or speaking their minds are just parts of life, not rights to be punished for wanting.
Catching a break shouldn’t be this hard
There are times in life when you just need to sit down, take a break, and have a KitKat.
Experiencing spiritual guilt in Ramadan
It is as if my spirituality is on a deadline every Ramadan.
Shift
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.
Global car brands 'Jaecoo' and 'Omoda' arrive in Bangladesh
Three new models of cars from the brands ‘Jaecoo’ and ‘Omoda’ have been launched in Bangladesh: JAECOO J7, OMODA C5, and OMODA E5. According to a press release, Asian MotorSpeX Limited, the official distributor of these cars, unveiled them at the recently held 17th Dhaka Motor Show 2024.
How to stop your car engine from overheating
An overheating engine is one of the most concerning issues a car owner can face – right up there with having your vehicle totalled in an accident. When an engine overheats, it can lead to catastrophic damage like warped cylinder heads, cracked engine blocks, or blown head gaskets.
Taking care of your car during heat waves: A quick guide
As the heat waves roll in, the importance of proper car care escalates. Let's take a look at some of the most essential elements of summer car care to ease your seasonal woes.
Tesla reduces prices of Model Y, X and S EVs in US
Tesla has officially reduced the pricing of three of its EVs: Model Y, Model X, and Model S, in the US. Each model will now cost US$2,000 each, as per an official announcement by the EV company.
Avik Anwar 1st in the final rounds of Gulf Pro Car Championship
Avik Anwar from Bangladesh has won first place in both Round 1 and Round 2 of the final instalment of the 2023-2024 Gulf Pro Car Championship. The international racing competition was held in Dubai Autodrome on March 30, 2024, where Avik competed against drivers from UAE, UK, France, Italy, India, and Russia, to win both rounds.
E-licence on smartphone is enough: BRTA
Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has authorised the use of electronic driving licences (e-licences) in addition to the physical driving licence card
Daily Star Books
ESSAY / It has to be print
There is something in the tactility of books that even non-readers find themselves admiring, and readers more so.
HIGHLIGHT / 100 feminist zines to shake, inspire, and soothe you
This year, to celebrate Sister Library Dhaka turning four, we acquired a collection of 100 zines curated by the library’s founder, Aqui Thami. The collection will be available for reading at the Goethe-Institut library from June onwards. With the acquisition of this collection, we are finally connected to the mothership Sister Library in Bombay.
INTERVIEW / On making zines with Aqui Thami
A big believer in social exchanges and developing safe spaces to position art as a medium of healing in community, Thami works on ceremonial interventions, performances, drawings, zine-making, fly posting, and public intervention, brought together by participant involvement
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Unseen chains of consequences
When a few boys arrive at the couple’s flat to seek out their college-going daughter, Rekha, the parents are thrown into a whirlwind of adventure.
ESSAY / Evil never looked this good
Even without a full-blown sympathetic backstory, a villain’s motivations can be complex.
MUSINGS / The whimsical storytelling of video games
Creating a video game, especially one that is storyline-based or an open-world role-playing game, is like creating an entirely new universe
FROM PAGES TO PIXELS / Why Dune stands the test of time
I recently had the sublime experience of watching the recent adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune (Chilton Books, 1965), a 2021 and 2023 two-part movie series directed by the passionate Denis Villeneuve. It is, in my mind, a cinematic triumph, and I am thrilled to witness the surge interest these movies have driven for Herbert’s science fiction book series of the same name.
THE SHELF / 5 atmospheric books to read during a kalboishakhi jhor
As long-awaited summer showers arrive to offer respite from the sweltering heat we have been experiencing, here are a few books to accompany you as you cosy up in bed and watch the rain beat down on your windows.
Star Holiday
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,
Al Ula: A hidden gem in Saudi Arabia
When we think of Saudi Arabia, we often imagine Makkah, Medina, and the annual pilgrimage. But beyond these, there are plenty of amazing spots that have been attracting travellers since the kingdom opened up to foreign visitors in 2019.
Skywalk on Dhampus
As the clock struck 4:00pm, I caught sight of two tiny figures descending from the rocky slopes of the Tukuche massif. With each passing minute, the figures gradually grew more recognizable: Samiur and Arif were returning after scaling Little Tukuche (5879m), one of the formidable peaks of the Dhaulagiri range.
Pondicherry: A charming former French colony
I boarded the Koromondol Express from Kolkata to Chennai at 3.20pm for a long journey. On my way, I met Anupam, an old friend from the Sandakfu-Phalut trek. It had been ten years since we last met.
Weekend Read
Moshar Machine promising a solution to mosquito menace
When the entire country is grappling with mosquito menace, a Bangladeshi entrepreneur and his team have come up with an ingenious solution that promises to be an effective tool in mosquito control.
Karupanya Rangpur / Is it a forest? Is it a garden? No, it’s a factory!
From a distance, it appears as a forest. But as one gets closer, it becomes evident that it’s in fact a seven-story factory building covered with vines and leaves. After entering the premises, one will see a 30-foot-tall white sculpture of a woman.
Rise of esports in Bangladesh / From fringe hobby to national pride
For years, gaming in Bangladesh was seen as a waste of time -- often dismissed as a frivolous activity or a distraction from more “serious” pursuits. Traditional societal norms placed little value on gaming, perceiving it as an endeavour devoid of any real-world benefits.
A love affair with tea
I wonder what it is in a cup of tea that makes it so invigorating. The obvious answer would be the stimulant, caffeine, or the particular flavour of the leaves seeping into the hot water and the aroma that takes over your senses.
Hats off to our green heroes!
The first time I fell in love with plants was when I saw my mother’s glossy green pothos arranged in old porcelain bowls that were slightly chipped off.
How a rickshaw-puller changed the course of Dr Zafrullah’s life
“Should I go back to the UK? If I can’t serve my countrymen, I might as well go back.”
Mangoes and litchis taking a hit from the heat
It’s painful for Tajul Islam to see what has happened to his beloved mango orchard in Rajshahi city’s Borobongram Namopara.
For the love of computers
Buying a computer, for most people, is a fairly mundane activity. It involves going to a vendor with a budget, a list of requirements, and the hope that the salespeople are trustworthy and knowledgeable enough about the products to find the best possible deal.
