United News of Bangladesh

Cultural collective Drishawmaddhom Shilpi Shomaj on Sunday announced a broad cultural campaign titled ‘36 Days That Shook the Heart: July Uprising and Cultural Constitution’ at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), commemorating the historic July 2024 Uprising and envisioning continued cultural resistance. As part of this initiative, it was announced that a daylong programme will be held on August 2 at the Bangladesh National Museum in the capital. The announcement was made at a press conference at the Conference Room of National Theatre Hall at BSA. The event began with a minute of silence and the national anthem in memory of those martyred in the July Uprising. The keynote was jointly delivered by Akram Khan, Krishnendu Chattopadhyay, Fariha Shams Sewti, and Sarkar Protik, while the programme was announced by Zahin Faruq Amin and Dhrubo Hasan; and the event was moderated by Taslima Azmeri Haque Badhon, Tanvir Noor, Shaheen Dill-Riaz, Munem Wasif, Dr Samina Luthfa, Asaduzzaman Asad, Dr Anon Siddika, Musfiqur Rahman Manju, Krishnokoli Islam, Mohammad Ali Haider, and Bithi Ghosh.  ‘July Reawakening’: BSA's drone show, cultural event to mark first anniversary at Shaheed Minar on July 14 Several others including Habibur Rahman, Barkat Hossain Palash, Jagannmoy Pal, Mitu Rahman, Rafi Uddin, and Shadab Shahrokh Hai were present . A short video was presented during the event, which concluded with a Q&A session. The collective quoted Ahmed Sofa’s assertion that “true courage is the ability to envision distant possibilities,” framing it as a call to cultural and political imagination. Drishawmaddhom Shilpi Shomaj recounted its emergence during the mass uprising, when artists, performers, and cultural activists gathered to demand democratic reforms.  Their protest, centred at Farmgate and the Shaheed Minar, became a defining moment in Bangladesh’s cultural-political landscape. The movement later contributed to flood relief, reconstruction, and social mobilization. The group placed the July Uprising within the longer arc of Bangladesh’s democratic history—from the 1947 Partition and 1952 Language Movement to the 1971 Liberation War and the 1990 pro-democracy uprising. They asserted that history must not be confined to the past, but mobilized for democratic transformation in the present and future. One year on, the collective reflected on both progress and unresolved challenges. Though the authoritarian regime fell, fascist systems persist. Speakers raised concerns about delayed justice, unfinished reforms, and a lack of clarity in democratic commitments. The group also addressed what it described as "cultural fascism"—state and social pressures that silence dissenting voices, censor creativity, and demand conformity from the arts. In contrast, they upheld cultural resistance as a way to reimagine democracy and social justice through fearless expression. The series of events will feature theatre, music, live graffiti, poetry, film screenings, and exhibitions of protest art. The day-long events will feature some of initiatives under the ‘36 Days’ campaign, which aims to deepen reflection on the uprising and foster artistic solidarity for a just and inclusive Bangladesh.

The upcoming film AA22 X A6 is already creating a buzz as one of the most eagerly awaited movies in the industry. What’s the Buzz? According to reports, Allu Arjun is expected to portray four distinct characters in the film, directed by Atlee. These roles include a grandfather, a father, and two sons. Rumors also hint that the story may involve the concept of parallel universes. However, none of these details have been officially confirmed by the filmmakers. Project Highlights Anticipation around AA22 X A6 has been steadily building. In June, the production team officially announced that Deepika Padukone had joined the cast. A video shared by Sun Pictures showed director Atlee narrating the script to Deepika and featured scenes of her motion capture shoot. The footage hinted at her playing a regal, warrior-like character, possibly a queen, riding a horse and brandishing a sword. Billed as a groundbreaking venture in Indian cinema, the film is noted for its scale and innovation. An earlier promotional video revealed some of the international talent involved in the project. VFX expert James Madigan, known for Iron Man 2 and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, commented, “I just finished reading the script, and my head is still spinning.” In the same clip, Allu Arjun is seen discussing the script with Mike Elizalde, President of Spectral Motion, who called it “the best of the best of what I would ever want to create.” Academy Award-winner Justin Raleigh, CEO of Fractured FX, shared his enthusiasm: “There’s so much potential here with the creatures and characters.” William Write Anderson of Lola VFX added, “I’m thrilled to be involved — the story is just unbelievable.” Source NDTV      

Amazon Prime Video blends global reach with curated originality, delivering narratives shaped by voice, vision, and cultural pulse. The August 2025 slate unveils an engaging fusion of comedy, action, thriller, and crime. It also highlights sharp documentaries and light-hearted animation, along with a spread of brand-new films and series. Let’s explore the must-see Amazon Prime Originals that shape this month into a diverse showcase of formats. 6 Binge-worthy Movies and Series Premiering on Amazon Prime This August . GZUZ - Licht & Schatten / Documentary / August 01, 2025 This is a documentary about a German rapper named Gzuz during his pivotal and deeply personal chapter. It captures his struggle to step away from a turbulent past marked by violence and indulgence. Instead of glamorising the chaos, the film closely observes his effort to get himself back. And all this striving is to grow as a creative force, a father, and a husband. Directed by Niko Apel and produced by Jochen Kostler, the film leans into quiet moments of reflection as much as public ones. Janek Romero joins as executive producer, rounding out a team that frames the artist's duality without judgement. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Releasing in August 2025 The Pickup / Action-comedy / August 06, 2025 This high-stakes heist and sharp-edged comedy starts as an armoured truck that runs quickly spins into chaos. Two ill-suited drivers caught in a dangerous trap. Behind the ambush? Criminals with more on their minds than money. Tim Story directs and produces this ensemble piece, with a screenplay by Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider. Eddie Murphy leads a cast that includes Pete Davidson, Keke Palmer, Eva Longoria, Andrew Dice Clay, and Marshawn Lynch. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, The Story Company, Davis Entertainment, and Eddie Murphy Productions spearhead the production. Butterfly / Spy Thriller / August 13, 2025 Based on a graphic novel by Arash Amel, this spy thriller is created and executive produced by Ken Woodruff and Steph Cha. Woodruff also serves as the showrunner. The executive production team also includes Arash Amel, John Cheng, Stephen Christy, Daniel Dae Kim, and Ross Richie. Read more: Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025 Behind the script, the writing team features Dave Kalstein, Sung Rno, Diana Son, and Denise The. At the centre of the narrative is David Jung, a former U.S. intelligence operative whose past refuses to stay buried. One fatal decision catches up with him, setting off a deadly chase led by Rebecca. She is a cold, relentless agent tasked with eliminating him. Daniel Dae Kim headlines the cast, joined by Piper Perabo. The ensemble includes Charles Parnell, Kim Ji-hoon, Reina Hardesty, Kim Tae-hee, Sung Dong-il, Lee Il-hwa, Seoyeon Jang, Louis Landau, and Sean Dulake.

When Dhadak premiered in July 2018, it was widely seen as a glossy, sanitized remake of the Marathi classic Sairat, mostly remembered for launching star kids Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter. But five years on, with Dhadak 2 on the horizon, the film is earning a second look—not as a flawless work, but as a bold one. Karan Johar’s Dhadak, directed by Shashank Khaitan, cloaked its caste-based love story in chiffon, lake views, and catchy music. But beneath the polish was a narrative about casteism, honour killings, and societal rot that rarely makes its way into mainstream Bollywood romance. In doing so, it became something of a Trojan horse, quietly confronting audiences in multiplexes with themes typically confined to parallel cinema. While the film softened the raw, grounded realism of Sairat, its unflinching ending—a young couple murdered in the name of honour—left viewers stunned. For many, it was their first encounter with the reality of caste violence. That abrupt, bloody conclusion pushed Dhadak out of the realm of glossy romance and into something far more urgent. Critics at the time faulted the film for skirting around caste terminology and romanticizing tragedy. Yet it introduced difficult conversations to audiences who may have otherwise avoided them. In that sense, Dhadak quietly changed the conversation. Karan Johar, known for opulent love stories and elite settings, took an unexpected risk in adapting a story so deeply rooted in India’s caste hierarchy. While the edges were dulled, the essence remained—and that matters. Priyanka Chopra responds to trolls over Hot Dog vs Vada Pav Debate As for Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, the film allowed them to prove they were more than just products of privilege. Ishaan brought nervous sincerity to his role; Janhvi’s performance, though tentative, carried emotional weight. Today, as Dhadak 2 promises to delve deeper into issues of identity and power, it’s worth acknowledging what the original achieved. It may not have matched Sairat in raw power, but it opened a space for caste-driven narratives in mainstream Hindi cinema. Dhadak walked, so others could run. Source: NDTV

In observance of the historic July Mass Uprising, a month-long series of commemorative events titled ‘July Reawakening’ is being held under the patronage of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. As part of the programme, a special drone show and cultural event will take place on Monday, July 14, at the Central Shaheed Minar in the capital with all respected Advisers of the interim government expected to attend. The evening's proceedings will begin at 6pm with a cultural performance titled 'Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam'. The national anthem will be performed in chorus by vocalists from Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the Department of Music. Dhaka University, and popular singer Farzana Wahid Shayan, who will also perform several of her notable songs, including 'Ami-e Bangladesh', 'Joy Banglar', 'Hushiyari', 'Tajjob Bone Jai', 'Amar Naam Palestine', and 'Ami July-er Golpo Bolbo', among others. To mark July Women’s Day, a documentary produced by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will be screened, followed by two films: 'Deepak Kumar Goswami Speaking' and 'Bishad Shindhu'. Five individuals who participated in the July movement, along with three family members of martyrs, will later share their memories and reflections. Govt  approves drone shows, ‘July Revival Programmes’ The cultural segment will continue with performances by the band Ila Lalalala, presenting songs such as 'Songoti', 'Ochirjibir Prarthona', 'Bagher Gaan', and 'Neel Nirbasan'. This will be followed by Slogan Girls chanting slogans, and after that, Indigenous band F Minor will take the stage with 'Alo Asbei', 'Mukti', 'Dahuk', and 'Meye'. After another round of slogan chanting by the Slogan Girls, Parsha Mahjabeen will perform 'Cholo Bhule Jai', 'Muktir Mondir', and 'Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam'. Finally, after one last round of slogans, singer Elita Karim will render patriotic songs including 'Ami Banglay Gaan Gai', 'Dhono Dhanno Pushpo Bhora', 'Palashir Prantor', 'Ghure Darao', and 'Bangladesh'. The evening will culminate with the Drone Show, jointly organized by the Government of Bangladesh and the Government of China. A total of 2,000 drones will take to the skies to visually narrate the story of the July Uprising. The show will recreate the historic moment when, on July 14, female students of Dhaka University emerged like a wave and breathed new life into the movement. The drones will form visuals above the Shaheed Minar to depict these powerful scenes. The drone show will unfold in two parts: the first will trace Bangladesh’s journey leading up to the events of July 2024, while the second will dramatize the mass uprising that began on July 14., in the view of this filmmaker This event is expected to be a powerful tribute to one of the most pivotal chapters in the nation's cultural and political history.

Leading Bangladeshi OTT platform Chorki stepped into its fourth anniversary on Saturday, marking four years of consistent original content production and impactful contributions to the country’s digital content industry. Since its launch on July 12, 2021, Chorki has become a popular name among Bengali-speaking audiences at home and abroad. With a focus on original series, films, documentaries, and co-produced cinema, Chorki has emerged as a trusted platform for quality Bangla entertainment. In a press release issued to mark the occasion, Chorki announced some impressive milestones: over 1 billion hours of content have been watched on the platform, and it now boasts more than 30 million registered users. In its four-year journey, the platform has released over 100 original productions, averaging more than two releases per month. Expressing gratitude to viewers, Chorki CEO Redoan Rony said, “Chorki has come this far because of the trust and love of our viewers. We are proud to see that when people think of watching Bangla content on OTT, they often turn to Chorki first.” Afran Nisho to join Chanchal Chowdhury in Redoan Rony's comeback film 'Domm' Highlighting Chorki’s diverse offerings, Rony noted that the platform has consistently released original series, movies, travel, cooking and comedy shows, along with curated foreign content. He added that Chorki has become the leading OTT producer of Bangladeshi films — with titles like Surongo, Toofan, Daagi, and Taandob becoming major hits. In addition to commercial blockbusters, Chorki has supported story-driven films appealing to family and middle-class audiences, including 36-24-36 and Priyo Maloti. Rony mentioned this year’s Eid-ul-Azha release Utshob as an example of content made with viewers and cinema’s broader interest in mind, despite commercial risks. “We believe there’s a need for both thrilling mainstream films like Taandob and emotionally rich family dramas like Utshob. Audiences have embraced both,” Rony said. Known for innovation, Chorki has brought fresh ideas to Bangla content. From the psychological thriller Allen Swapan Season 2 to the horror series Dui Shaw, the historical narrative Feu, and the dark film Amalnama, Chorki’s original content has earned strong audience feedback. Chorki’s content has also gained recognition at prestigious international film festivals. Its co-produced film Priyo Maloti, directed by Shankha Dashgupta, was officially selected for the World Cinema category at the Cairo International Film Festival and screened at the International Film Festival of India; and also won the Best Film Award at the Dhaka International Film Festival. Additionally, Nuhash Humayun’s horror series Dui Shaw has been officially selected at renowned festivals including Fantasia, Raindance, Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival, and SXSW. Looking ahead, Chorki said that it is aiming to expand its reach beyond 350 million Bangla-speaking viewers to global audiences. On the occasion of its fourth anniversary, CEO Redoan Rony thanked all the viewers, creators, artists, and supporters for being part of Chorki’s journey. He also teased an upcoming special offer that will go live at 12:01 am on July 13, urging fans to stay tuned to Chorki’s verified Facebook page for the announcement. “Expect more films, more fun, and more excitement,” Rony said, regarding the platform's fourth anniversary and upcoming projects.

Justin Bieber has officially returned. On Friday, the pop star released Swag, his long-anticipated seventh studio album, marking his first new music since 2021’s Justice — and his first since becoming a father. The 21-track album was teased just hours earlier through cryptic billboards in Reykjavik and Los Angeles, as well as posts on Bieber’s Instagram featuring the full tracklist, including titles like “All I Can Take,” “Walking Away,” “Dadz Love,” and “Forgiveness.” According to Def Jam Recordings, Swag is a reflection of Bieber’s growth as a husband and father, with songs that dive into deeper emotions and present his most introspective work to date. Top Tracks from Bieber’s ‘Swag’ “Daises” – This slow-burning R&B-pop track is a highlight, showcasing Bieber’s signature tender vocals, now layered over a lo-fi guitar. It's intimate, polished, and exactly what longtime fans hope for.“Devotion” ft. Dijon – Rising R&B artist Dijon adds warmth and soul to this romantic tune. Their collaboration is seamless, with Dijon’s textured voice complementing Bieber’s in a song about unwavering love.“Go Baby” – A tribute to his wife Hailey Bieber, the song opens with a line celebrating her beauty and business success, referencing her billion-dollar Rhode skincare brand. It's a sweet and catchy nod to his muse.“Walking Away” – Marriage comes with its challenges, and Bieber addresses that honestly in this heartfelt midtempo track. It’s emotional yet danceable — a perfect “slow dance in the kitchen” song.“All I Can Take” – The opening track nods to Bieber’s early pop roots but with a grown-up twist. It's playful and nostalgic, with a catchy chorus that showcases his smooth vocals and personal evolution.A Look Back at Bieber’s Journey The Canadian superstar and two-time Grammy winner first made waves in the late 2000s with hits like “Baby,” “Sorry,” and “Stay.” He became a global teen idol and was discovered as a tween by Usher and talent manager Scooter Braun. In 2023, Bieber sold the rights to his music catalog — including all six of his earlier albums — to U.K.-based music investment firm Hipgnosis. While financial details weren't disclosed, Billboard estimated the deal at around $200 million. In August 2024, Bieber and wife Hailey welcomed their first child, Jack Blues Bieber — a life change that clearly influenced the deeply personal themes of Swag.

The global premiere of the film and exhibition titled ‘Shoot Me, I Bare My Chest – A Counter-Forensic Investigation into the Killing of Abu Sayed’ was held on Friday evening at DrikPath Bhobon in the capital, shedding a new light on Abu Sayed’s killing through a counter-forensic lens. The initiative, spearheaded by Drik Picture Library, Bangladesh, in collaboration with Forensic Architecture in the UK, delves into the killing of Abu Sayed, a student activist of Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, who died during a protest on July 16, 2024. His death marked a significant moment in the ‘July Uprising’, which eventually led to the fall of the then Sheikh Hasina-led government. Challenging the official narrative that claimed Sayed was killed by protesters using bricks and firearms, the counter-forensic investigation presents an alternate account. Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha and IGCC celebrate Ashadhi Purnima Utilising interviews, satellite imagery, photogrammetry, heat maps, and extensive photographic and video evidence, the findings suggest police responsibility and excessive use of force against demonstrators. The event was moderated by eminent photographer and activist Dr Shahidul Alam, also Managing Director of Drik. Speakers included Jumanah Bawazir, Advanced Researcher at Forensic Architecture; Tasneem Khalil, Editor-in-Chief of Netra News; Nicholas Alistair Masterton, Technology Researcher at Forensic Architecture; Goljar Rahman Ador, photojournalist at daily Kaler Kantho in Rangpur; Asaduzzaman Arman, staff cameraman at NTV, Rangpur; Tawhidul Haque Siam, a student and university correspondent from Begum Rokeya University; and Parvez Ahmad Rony, Network Coordinator and Photojournalist at Drik. Curated by ASM Rezaur Rahman, the exhibition presents a compelling narrative that not only highlights inconsistencies in official accounts but also raises urgent questions about accountability, justice, and state violence. The exhibition and film will remain open to the public until July 26, every day from 3 pm to 8 pm on Level 2 of DrikPath Bhobon.

Global star Priyanka Chopra recently shut down critics in her signature Desi Girl style after facing backlash for choosing a hot dog over vada pav during a light-hearted Q&A session. While promoting her upcoming film Heads of State, Priyanka played a street food preference game with an American journalist. Her choices were balanced at first — she said it “depends on the mood” when asked to choose between empanadas and samosas, and picked “both” when it came to enchiladas versus chicken tikka masala. However, her confession that "hot dog is my weakness" over the beloved Indian vada pav sparked a wave of criticism online. One of the critics, food vlogger Pushpek Sidhu — known for reviewing global spins on Indian cuisine — reacted with disbelief, writing “Ain’t no way” on his Instagram Story. Priyanka didn’t hold back in her reply. She reshared his post on her own Instagram Story, writing, “Wow Bro! Didn’t know there was a syllabus for being desi. It’s not that serious. #vadapav vs #hotdog.” Humaira Asghar found dead weeks after disappearance in Karachi Sidhu responded with humor, posting, “I eat samosa, I breathe samosa, I sleep samosa. My whole personality is samosa... For me, it's very serious @priyankachopra,” followed by laughing emojis. While some netizens accused the actor of “trying to be white” and called her choice “blasphemy,” others defended her, saying food preferences shouldn't determine one’s cultural identity. In the end, Priyanka’s witty and composed response resonated with many fans, reinforcing her message that there’s no rulebook to being Desi — it’s a matter of personal taste. Source: NDTV

One of the most successful Bangladeshi films in recent years, 'Utshob' is being lauded for its subtle storytelling, intelligent dialogue, and overall presentation with its stellar cast. The film has been the surprise hit of 2025—wooing theatre audiences and wowing critics with its refusal to bow to conventions. At a time when almost every film slated for commercial release features several songs that form its original soundtrack (OST) and appear in the film as song-and-dance routines, including an almost mandatory item track to satisfy multiplex audiences, essentially turning them into musicals. 'Utshob' completely circumvents that prescription. Even as it serves up an OST featuring two milestones from Bangladesh's popular band music scene — and both in service of its storytelling. Given that the film’s story is a trip through Nineties nostalgia in a distinctly Bangladeshi cultural context - a period generally regarded as the zenith of the band music movement - achieving this was essential to projecting the story as written (an Eid adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’) on a cinema screen. The first track is “Tumi”, written and sung by Aiedid Rashid of the band Level Five, one of the most popular alternative rock bands in recent times. Known for their moody melodies, introspective lyrics, and emotionally rich sound, Level Five’s music—including the hit “Tumi” (originally released as a standalone single in 2022, separate from the 'Utshob' soundtrack)—blends indie and post-rock influences, offering a fresh, heartfelt voice in the local rock scene. The second is an even more precious, well-known song among Bangladeshi band music fans: "Dhusor Shomoy" by the progressive rock icons Artcell. First released on April 1, 2006, as part of their second studio album 'Oniket Prantor', it became one of the band’s most beloved tracks among its legions of fans. A cult-favorite that became a progressive rock anthem, “Dhusor Shomoy” is celebrated for its poetic depth and emotional intensity. Its inclusion in Utshob added a powerful layer of nostalgia and resonance, perfectly complementing the film’s themes of memory, loss, and emotional complexity.