United News of Bangladesh

The Grammy Awards on Sunday became the latest high-profile stage for growing celebrity criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, as musicians and activists used the red carpet and acceptance speeches to denounce US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The awards season has coincided with an intensified deportation campaign, particularly in Minneapolis, prompting artists to weigh whether and how to publicly oppose immigration enforcement. In the days leading up to the Grammys, activists urged celebrities to wear protest pins calling for ICE to leave US cities, coordinating with artists’ teams and distributing the pins at multiple industry events. Organisers said the response at the Grammys appeared stronger than at last month’s Golden Globes, reflecting rising public anger after a series of high-profile incidents, including the fatal shooting of nurse Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol officer, the detention of a five-year-old child, Liam Conejo Ramos, and the recent arrest of journalist Don Lemon. Jess Morales Rocketto, executive director of Latino advocacy group Maremoto, said the music industry’s culture made artists more willing to take visible stands than their Hollywood counterparts. “These are folks known for big, rebellious performances and bold self-expression,” she said. “The pins are about much more than a red carpet moment. They’re about taking a stand and showing that ICE should be out of our communities.” Several artists wore protest messages on the Grammys red carpet, including Jason Isbell, Margo Price, Kehlani and Rhiannon Giddens. Kehlani also used her acceptance speech for best R&B performance to condemn ICE. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver said he wore a whistle to honour legal observers documenting federal agents’ actions on the streets. “I think music exists to heal and bring people together,” Vernon told the Associated Press. “But the real work is being done by those observers on the ground.” The protests echoed similar demonstrations at last week’s Sundance Film Festival, where actors including Natalie Portman, Olivia Wilde and Zoey Deutch wore “ICE OUT” pins. Deutch also displayed a “BE GOOD” pin in memory of Renee Good, who was killed by an ICE officer last month. Wilde said she was disturbed by what she described as a growing normalisation of deadly enforcement actions. Portman, speaking at the premiere of her film The Gallerist, became emotional as she described the difficulty of celebrating creative achievements amid widespread fear in immigrant communities. Activists acknowledged that not all artists are able or willing to speak out publicly. Morales Rocketto said opposition can come from record labels, managers, fashion sponsors or corporate partners, while others may fear personal consequences. She also noted that Latino artists, regardless of fame or wealth, may face particular risks, including concerns over immigration status within their families, amid heightened enforcement under the Trump administration. Despite those pressures, organisers said the visible protest at the Grammys signaled a growing cultural revolt against immigration policies, with artists increasingly using their platforms to express solidarity with affected communities.

Tollywood stars Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda are reportedly set to tie the knot on February 26, 2026, in a private ceremony at a heritage palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The couple had earlier celebrated a private engagement at Vijay’s Hyderabad residence in October last year. Now, a viral video claims that preparations for their wedding are underway at the City Palace in Udaipur. In the video shared on Instagram, two women said they were at the same palace where the wedding is expected to take place. They added that palace staff confirmed the wedding date as February 26. The clip also shows glimpses of the ongoing preparations at the venue. Rashmika and Vijay have largely kept their engagement and wedding plans private. During a recent promotional event, Rashmika subtly acknowledged their engagement, saying, “Everyone is aware of it.” Read More: Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda engaged, wedding set for February 2026 In another light-hearted interaction with Galatta Plus, Rashmika was congratulated on her perfume line, and when asked if there was something else to celebrate, she smiled and said, “No, no. Actually, there’s quite a lot, because so many things are happening. But I’ll take your congratulations on all of them.” The couple’s relationship has drawn attention for some time, fueled by their on-screen chemistry in films like ‘Geetha Govindam’ and ‘ Dear Comrade’. Sources close to the couple confirmed to NDTV that they got engaged on October 3, 2025, in a private ceremony. Source: NDTV

Rasha Thadani has shared the first glimpse of her character Manga from her Telugu debut film Srinivasa Mangapuram, following the positive response to the previously released Laikey Laikaa first look. The film is directed by Ajay Bhupathi and features Rasha opposite Jaya Krishna Ghattamaneni, nephew of superstar Mahesh Babu. Rasha Thadani’s Announcement Rasha took to Instagram to announce the project, expressing gratitude as she steps into Telugu cinema. In her post, she introduced Manga and spoke about beginning her journey in an industry that celebrates rooted storytelling. She described the experience as one that has instilled humility, patience and faith, while thanking the team for trusting her with her debut. She also highlighted that the film is directed by Ajay Bhupathi and features music composed by GV Prakash Kumar. In a follow-up post, Rasha elaborated on her character, calling Manga the emotional anchor of Srinu’s life—his comfort, pain and peace. She described the debut as a moment she will always cherish and thanked director Ajay Bhupathi for his guidance and belief in her. She also appreciated her co-star Jaya Krishna Ghattamaneni for being supportive, adding that this marks just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead.   Source: NDTV

India’s Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC) has asked the Supreme Court to hear its views if filmmakers challenge the Madras High Court order on the release of actor Vijay’s film Jana Nayagan. The Madras High Court had earlier set aside a single judge’s order that directed the board to give the movie a U/A 16+ certificate. The division bench allowed the filmmakers to revise their petition and have it heard again by the single judge if they wish. The court said the single judge acted without giving the CBFC a chance to respond. It also ruled that the petition was not maintainable, as it asked the board to issue a certificate instead of challenging its earlier order. Earlier, the Supreme Court had refused to hear the case and told the high court to decide it by January 20. By filing a caveat, the CBFC wants to ensure it can present its position if the filmmakers move the top court. The case shows ongoing disputes in India over film certification and the rights of producers and regulators.   With inputs from NDTV

Bollywood producer Shailendra Singh has praised Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra, calling them “like-minded personalities” with similar approaches to their careers. Shailendra said many fans wished the two stars had appeared together more on screen. He added that despite taking different career paths, they share a focused and professional attitude. Speaking about Priyanka Chopra, Shailendra said the industry did not value her properly. “Priyanka should have been the voice of Bollywood, but we treated her so badly that she left the country. She could have carried Bollywood’s reputation globally,” he said. Priyanka later moved to the United States and built a successful career in Hollywood. Shailendra also highlighted Shah Rukh Khan’s understanding of cinema and business. “He is a thorough professional, knows his work, and never puts anyone down. Both Priyanka and Shah Rukh should be ambassadors of our industry,” he said. The producer said the two stars have a no-nonsense attitude and are very similar in the way they handle their careers. He described them as supremely talented and focused on their work. Shailendra’s remarks come amid ongoing fan interest in collaborations between Bollywood’s top stars and recognition of Priyanka Chopra’s international success.   With inputs from NDTV

Breakout star Ahaan Panday has revealed that neither he nor his Saiyaara co star Aneet Padda expected audiences to turn up in large numbers to watch a film led by two newcomers, even as the movie went on to become one of the biggest hits of 2025. In an interview with Grazia India, Ahaan said he and Aneet had realistic expectations while shooting the film, directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Yash Raj Films. “Aneet and I even discussed this on set that even if only two people walked out of the theatre feeling something, we would have done our job,” he said. “We knew we could not expect audiences to flock to watch two newcomers on the big screen.” Ahaan, who made his acting debut as struggling musician Krish Kapoor, said he worked deeply on shaping the emotional arc of his character. He revealed that he kept a diary throughout the shoot, noting Krish’s inner thoughts and emotions before every scene. Madonna hails Margate and Tracey Emin as creative haven “When I read the script, I felt there was no softness in Krish initially. There was more duality,” he said, adding that he consciously brought vulnerability and emotional depth to the character in the second half of the film. Recalling a quiet moment on set, Ahaan said he and Aneet once sat together on a beach discussing their anonymity at the time. “I told her that nobody knows my face, and nobody really knows hers either,” he said, noting that both remained grounded by focusing on emotional impact rather than fame. “That’s our job as artists, to move even one person,” Ahaan said, adding that the overwhelming audience response far exceeded their expectations. By the end of 2025, Saiyaara topped IMDb’s list of the Top 10 Most Popular Indian Movies of the year. Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda also claimed the top two spots among IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Actors, while Mohit Suri led the platform’s inaugural Most Popular Indian Directors list. Fans pay tribute as Arijit Singh quits Bollywood playback singing Ahaan was later named Best Debutant Actor of the Year at the NDTV Indian of the Year awards in December 2025. Saiyaara explores themes of love, loss and heartbreak, with Ahaan starring opposite Aneet Padda, who plays a young writer diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. #With inputs from NDTV

Global pop icon Madonna has praised the English seaside town of Margate and her long-time friend, celebrated artist Tracey Emin, calling the resort “her idea of heaven” in a recent Instagram post. Madonna shared photographs from an art exhibition and highlighted Emin, who has been her friend for over 25 years, as a “pearl” for championing the town’s cultural revival. Emin, known for her provocative and personal artwork, has spent decades promoting Margate as a hub for creativity, drawing artists, writers, photographers, and performers to the coastal town. In her post, Madonna lauded Emin’s residency programme, which provides young artists space to live and work, describing it as “quite remarkable” and vital for those who otherwise would lack opportunities to develop their talents. “Whenever I go there, I feel like I’ve entered a dream,” Madonna wrote, noting that the town seemed “energized by creativity.” Emin responded to Madonna’s tribute, expressing gratitude for the visit and noting that Margate has attracted “so many cool, creative, interesting people” in recent years. She recalled the town’s decline during the 1970s and 1980s, when empty streets, derelict arcades, and boarded-up shops left it largely abandoned. According to Emin, the past decade has seen a major transformation of Margate, driven by a new wave of artists, writers, and musicians. “The town has come back to life, and both new and old Margatonians are making it a positive and uplifting place,” she said. Madonna concluded that sharing experiences like Margate, which celebrate human connection through art rather than conflict, was meaningful. Emin echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the town’s growing cultural and artistic significance.   With inputs from BBC

Oscar-winning Indian composer AR Rahman is set to attend the high-profile premiere of Melania, a new documentary on former US First Lady Melania Trump, at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on January 29 (ET), NDTV reported. Rahman’s presence is among the notable international highlights of the event, which will also host prominent figures including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, hip-hop artist Waka Flocka Flame, and Jordan Belfort, whose life inspired The Wolf of Wall Street. Political dignitaries expected at the premiere include former New York City Mayor Eric Adams, US Second Lady Usha Vance, and several members of former President Donald Trump’s cabinet. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are also scheduled to attend. The documentary focuses on the 20 days leading up to Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration and provides a behind-the-scenes look at Melania Trump during a politically pivotal period. It had an earlier private screening at the White House on January 24, attended by Donald and Melania Trump, their son Barron, and select invited guests. Directed by Brett Ratner and produced by Fernando Sulichin and Marc Beckman, the documentary also lists Melania Trump as one of its producers. Amazon MGM Studios is handling the release of the film. Despite anticipation for the US premiere, advance ticket sales for screenings in London have been weak, with minimal bookings reported across both independent cinemas and major multiplexes, according to The Guardian. Nevertheless, the Washington DC premiere remains a major international event, with Rahman’s attendance highlighting the global appeal of the documentary.   With inputs from NDTV

A rare BBC radio interview from 1955 offers fresh insights into the life, career, and creative process of celebrated British crime novelist Agatha Christie, whose works have captivated readers for more than a century. The interview, recorded more than 50 years ago, captures the reclusive author discussing her unconventional upbringing, inspirations, and distinctive approach to writing. Born Agatha Miller in 1890 to a prosperous family, Christie was mostly home-schooled and described her childhood as “gloriously idle.” In the interview, she said that periods of boredom sparked her imagination, leading her to write short stories and a lengthy early novel before publishing her first major work, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, in 1920, which introduced her iconic detective Hercule Poirot. Her experience as a volunteer nurse during World War One, including work in a hospital pharmacy, provided her with knowledge of medicines and toxins, which she later used in 41 murders, attempted murders, and suicides across her novels. Christie explained that while her novels followed a typical formula—a closed circle of suspects, a murder, clues, and a private detective revealing the truth—her plays allowed her more creative freedom. She noted that writing plays was “much more fun than writing books,” as it avoided lengthy descriptions and demanded faster pacing to maintain dialogue flow. Three of her plays were running simultaneously in London’s West End by 1955, including The Mousetrap, which became the world’s longest-running play. The interview also explored her personal challenges. In 1926, after the death of her mother and her husband Archie Christie’s confession of infidelity, she disappeared for ten days in a widely publicised incident. Found 230 miles from the site of her car crash in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, Christie never fully explained the episode, attributing it vaguely to “illness, sorrow, despair, and heartbreak.” Christie later married archaeologist Max Mallowan in 1930, whose shared interest in Middle Eastern history influenced novels such as Death on the Nile (1937). She revealed that while thinking through plot development required careful mental planning, the actual writing of a novel could be completed in three months if uninterrupted. Theatre impresario Sir Peter Saunders, who produced her hit play The Mousetrap, described her talent for mentally visualising entire scenes before writing, a view echoed by Penguin Books founder Sir Allan Lane. Actor Richard Attenborough highlighted the contrast between her quiet, dignified persona and her ability to enthrall audiences with suspense and drama on stage and screen. The BBC interview underscores Christie’s reliance on imagination over rigid technique, her joy in devising intricate plots, and her enduring legacy as one of the world’s most ingenious and enigmatic crime writers.

Trinidad-born rapper Nicki Minaj on Wednesday declared herself a strong supporter of US President Donald Trump and showcased her Trump “gold card” visa, which provides residency and a path to citizenship. Speaking on stage in Washington DC at the Trump Accounts Summit, Minaj said, “I am probably the president’s number one fan, and that will not change.” She added that criticism from others motivates her to support him even more. The singer held hands with Trump during the event and emphasized she would not allow his opponents to bully him. Minaj shared images of the gold card on social media, calling it “free of charge” and saying she was finalizing her citizenship paperwork under Trump’s administration. The card, launched in December, allows wealthy immigrants to gain US residency in exchange for a $1 million fee and a $15,000 processing charge. The rapper, who moved to the US as a child, had previously criticised the government’s family-separation policies and highlighted her own experience as a child immigrant. She said the card grants residency rights but not full US citizenship. Minaj’s support has faced criticism online, with other US musicians voicing opposition to Trump’s immigration policies. Bruce Springsteen released a protest song “Streets of Minneapolis” in response to recent ICE-related shootings, while artists such as Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Ariana Grande, and Ice-T condemned ICE actions on social media. Minaj’s public backing of Trump and the gold card program highlights a growing divide among US celebrities over immigration policies and the Trump administration’s approach to enforcement.   With inputs from BBC