Life & Living
#Perspective / Skinny shaming: The bullying we pretend doesn’t exist
Body positivity never really caught up in Bangladesh. It’s shocking how even in 2024, body shaming not only exists in our society, but also is taken for granted. In recent times, there has been some awareness against fat shaming. Yet, the same cannot be said about skinny shaming.
Eat, sleep, move, repeat: The lazy person’s guide to cardiac health
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the idea of changing your lifestyle drastically for the sake of your cardiac health. However, the path to improved cardiac wellbeing is often made up of tiny, consistent steps.
Can’t focus? Try these desk hacks that aren’t meditation
Train your brain to focus with these activities: Pomodoro Technique with brain games, desk yoga stretches, mindful walking, tackling the hardest task first, and brain dumps. These habits enhance concentration and mental clarity.
News got you down? Here’s how to stay informed without losing your sanity
The world has been in unrest for a minute and a half now. It is normal to stay up-to-date with the latest updates. However, we must also allow ourselves to take a step back when the news starts to feel overwhelming, and begins to take a toll on our mental health.
Reiki: The ancient art of waving away your worries
The roots of Reiki trace back to Japan, but its branches have spread worldwide, touching the lives of many seeking holistic wellness.
Tips to ensure safe drinking water in flood-affected areas
Parts of Bangladesh have been devastated by floods recently, leaving residents vulnerable. Access to clean, safe drinking water is one of the biggest concerns during these times. We have listed some easy and effective ways to ensure safe drinking water in flood-affected areas.
#Satire / Bangladesh needs a protest to protest the protests
If you have been keeping up with the news, you would be forgiven for thinking that Bangladesh’s national pastime is becoming "who can protest the loudest." With protests popping up on every street corner like pop-up shops, it’s time to address the real issue.
#Decor / Transform your living room: From drab to fab in no time
A living room is more than just a space; it's a reflection of your personality and a place to unwind and entertain. Renovating this central hub of your home can be a transformative experience. If you have been thinking about renovating your living space, here are some ideas to breathe new life into your home.
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
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.
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.
Star Health
153 new dengue patients
Another 153 people were hospitalised with dengue in 24 hours till yesterday morning.
Prof Nazmul Hossain appointed as DGME DG
The interim government yesterday appointed Prof Nazmul Hossain as the director general (acting) of Directorate General of Medical Education
Call 16263 for treatment of those injured in recent protests
The government has instructed those seeking to ensure better treatment or to provide casualty information of those injured in the recent quota reform and anti-government protests to call 16263 and two other health emergency numbers
What is mpox, how is it spread, and how can it be prevented?
Infection with mpox causes a pus-filled skin rash lasting up to four weeks, which can be very painful. But what symptoms should we look out for and what can we do to reduce the risk of infection?
Stroke rehabilitation by occupational therapy
Stroke is the second leading cause of death in the world. After stroke, patients face different challenges to cope with the new situation. Stroke rehabilitation is the crucial part of treating the patient appropriately.
Global health emergency declared for Mpox
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has determined that the upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR).
A lifeline for global health
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is taking bold steps to tackle global health challenges with the launch of its first-ever investment round. This innovative approach aims to secure steady and flexible funding for WHO’s core work from 2025 to 2028.
New HIV prevention breakthrough
Globally, women account for nearly half of all HIV infections, yet they remain under-represented among those using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, PURPOSE-1, sheds light on a promising new approach to HIV prevention: twice-yearly lenacapavir.
Satireday
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.
Tyrant wakes up after 15 years, becomes good person
A tyrant who was on a drip of liquefied sleeping pills for the last 15 years because another tyrant had usurped him, woke up on August 7 and became a good person.
Satire not satiring the same after the fall of Awami League
After the wave of excitement ended and things started to get serious with the new interim government, satire writers seem to have been at a loss on what to make fun of.
Cheat officer appointed to look after finances of all large corporations
When you have corruption in your business. When your business partner steals all the money you were planning to steal.
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
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.
Cartographic Imagination and Colonial Landscape Paintings in and around Bengal
Cartography in India might have had its roots in this expansionist ambition but went on to achieve much more than this. Rennell’s Map of Hindostan, published by an act of Parliament in 1782, inaugurated the cartographic identity of modern India for the first time on the world stage.
Star Youth
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.
Quota Reform Protests: Student associations in Australia, Canada, Hungary, and India stand in solidarity
Bangladeshi student associations in Australia, Canada, and Hungary are organising rallies to show their support for the reform movement.
Students and quota holders say reform is necessary
The quota system must be executed in a way that upholds fairness, inclusivity, and equity.
Looking back on Reflective Teens’ eventful decade
Reflective Teens exemplifies how a simple passion project can evolve into a catalyst for transformative change. What began as Yusuf Munna's effort to give his classmates a platform has grown into an organisation that champions educational equity and innovation at a global scale.
Everything in life requires practice
There's a misunderstanding that some things in life require natural skills or a one-time lucky break
The thriving online clothing thrift scene and the youth behind it
These young entrepreneurs are not only proving the do-ability of running a thriving business alongside studies but also inspiring countless other students to dip their toes into the rewarding world of entrepreneurship.
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.
Shift
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.
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.
Daily Star Books
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.
THE SHELF / 8 books to read in celebration of Women in Translation month
Women in Translation Month is an annual celebration that toasts to women authors from around the globe who write in languages other than English
BOOK REVIEW: POETRY / Selected poems of Shamim Reza: An overview
Review of 'Shamim Reza: Selected Poems' (ULAB Press, 2023)
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / A “knockout” debut from Rita Bullwinkel
The eight girls in Headshot clearly hope to escape the chaos of their lives in the ring.
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / 'Prophet Song': Full of sound, fury, and significance
The 309-page-long dystopian novel is an oppressive account of Eilish who tries to keep her family from falling apart as everything around her crumbles.
BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Is the antidote itself a virus?
During the 53 years of Bangladesh’s existence, its people have had to endure and take down two autocratic regimes; not only did they oust an autocrat in July 2024 through a mass uprising, but 1991 also saw the downfall of the autocrat, Hussain Muhammad Ershad, through another rebellion.
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
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.
Embracing the old-world charm, one antique at a time
There is a certain drama in being mystified with all things retro and vintage.
