Lifestyle
10 Bangladeshi Winter Street Foods: Taste Meets Tradition
Winters in Bangladesh bring a unique and delightful experience for food enthusiasts. The cool, crisp air sets the stage for a diverse array of delectable street foods exclusively available during this season. Blending the flavours of tradition and innovation, various winter-special street foods appear on the bustling streets of Dhaka to the serene corners of small towns. Let’s explore 10 winter street foods that tantalise the taste buds of Bangladeshis.
10 Delicious Winter Street Foods in Bangladesh
Chitoi Pitha (Bengali Rice Cake)
Chitoi Pitha, also known as Bengali Rice Cake, is a traditional delicacy of rural Bangladesh. Made from rice flour, it boasts a subtle and aromatic flavour. The history of chitoi pitha is quite old. This dish traces its origins back to ancient Bengal, with documented mentions dating back to the 6th century BC.
These spongy cakes are often enjoyed with spicy chutney and bhorta. Chitoi Pitha captures the essence of Bangladeshi tradition in every bite and represents the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Read more: 5 Tasty Savoury Winter Pitha Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
Bhutta (Corn on the Cob)
Spicy Corn or bhutta is a cherished street food in Bangladesh. This delectable treat involves grilling or roasting corn on the cob and then seasoning it with a blend of spices and tangy condiments.
Bhutta's popularity in the Indian subcontinent dates back to the British colonial period when the British introduced new corn varieties and encouraged its cultivation as a food crop. This delicious snack quickly gained popularity and remains a cherished part of street food culture in India, Bangladesh, and elsewhere in South Asia. It is known for its smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavours.
Khejurer Rosh (Date Palm Juice)
Khejurer rosh, or date juice, is a beloved beverage in Bangladesh. It is made from the sweet nectar of date palm trees, providing a naturally refreshing taste.
Fresh date juice is collected by shaving some sections of a date palm tree, and collecting the juice in a clay pot overnight.
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Date palm juice was introduced to the Indian subcontinent by the Arabs in the Middle Ages and swiftly gained popularity.
Even today, it remains a sought-after winter drink. This drink is deeply rooted in tradition and continues to be a favourite. It offers a sweet respite to all who savour its cooling embrace.
Bhapa Pitha (Steamed Rice Cake)
Steamed rice cake is locally known as Bhapa Pitha. While the history of Bhapa Pitha lacks extensive documentation, it has roots in the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent. References to this rice cake are traced back to the early 19th century through Bengali cookbooks.
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This classic Bengali delicacy is made from rice flour, molasses, shredded coconut, and water. This popular snack or dessert is savoured in both the rural and urban areas of Bangladesh during the winter months. Bhapa Pitha is one of the most common winter street foods available during evening to night hours.
Pakora (Fritters)
Pakora, also known as fritters, is a beloved snack enjoyed widely in various cuisines. This crispy treat hails from ancient India, with early variations mentioned in Sanskrit and Tamil Sangam literature, although the exact recipes remain elusive.
Today, pakora has transcended borders and become a popular snack and appetiser, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It can be crafted from an array of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and seafood. It offers a versatile and tantalising addition to culinary traditions across the region.
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‘Dream of Human Nature’: Brihatta Art Foundation hosts interactive solo exhibition of Koen Vanmechelen
At the Brihatta Art Foundation in the capital’s Hazaribagh, an exclusive solo exhibition of Belgian artist Koen Vanmechelen titled "Dream of Human Nature" began on Saturday.
The interactive exhibition, organised and hosted by Brihatta Art Foundation and curated by renowned Bangladeshi artist and art educator Bishwajit Goswami, is a convergence of art, science and community that invites visitors to actively discover nature as a library of knowledge.
With this exhibition, the visiting Belgian artist Vanmechelen unveils the essence of his ongoing Cosmopolitan Chicken Project (CCP). The project is an ongoing trans-disciplinary art project starting in the late 1990s which aims to create a hybrid of “all races of chicken in the world.”
This exclusive exhibition is an invitation to learn more from nature regarding the existence of human beings and how people can dream and create a more sustainable future.
Brihatta Art Foundation, a research-based young artist-run platform based in Dhaka with a strong focus on community development and collaboration, invited Koen Vanmechelen for this fall exhibition. Vanmechelen has been working for over 20 years at the intersection of art, community, and science.
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His passion is based on the belief in art as a driver of mutual understanding and as a guide in the search for answers to the significant challenges of the 21st century, the relationship between nature and culture, and, in particular, the development of sustainable communities.
"I embrace my role as an artist in shaping a harmonious world,” Vanmechelen stated regarding the exhibition. “The exhibition's intricate tapestry celebrates humanity's diversity, inspiring us to cherish our dreams with a mindful perspective of our nature.”
“In this convergence of art, science, and community, I find hope for a future built on unity and understanding. And I hope visitors will experience the same," he said.
Vanmechelen is thrilled to exhibit in Bangladesh for the first time, saying, "It is a fascinating place of ancient civilisations and enormous biocultural hybridity. Through genetics and collaborative art, the exhibition reflects our interconnectedness and calls for sustainable coexistence.”
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‘Songs of Soul': 3rd solo exhibition of Zahangir Alom begins at Alliance Française
The third solo art exhibition of Zahangir Alom titled ‘Songs of Soul’ began at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD).
Zahangir worked as a "resident artist" of Oriental Painting Studio for a long time and developed his own style of watercolour wash technique.
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The maturity of his colour mixing is the unique quality of his painting. Some of his works are semi-abstract, and the mature arrangement of colours in the painting can be seen in conjunction with the maturity of his senses.
The melody of the music, the rhythm of the poem, and the dance of the female body are alluded to in his paintings. Sometimes "Gaudiya Nritya", sometimes "Desh", sometimes "Bageshree", sometimes "Khamaj" or ‘Malkauns" raga; sometimes the play of clouds; sometimes the afternoon of late-autumn; sometimes magical twilight; sometimes the beauty of Bengal; sometimes "Leelakirtan"; sometimes the subject-narrative of mythological anecdotes play in his paintings.
Rezaul Hoque's solo exhibition ‘Living on the Edge’ begins
He paints many images of flowers that are different from real flowers. Here, the colour comes with the charming message of form. The itinerant artist’s work celebrates visible nature, but his view of nature is not a close-up view.
He made a series of paintings based on the motifs of Bengal’s "Sarachitra", mixed with the new language of Bengali folk paintings. The inner flowers, female figures, trees, and foliage are arranged in an imagined alchemy, and although the painting is a traditional wash method, it is full of three-dimensional mixed-colour play.
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This exhibition includes works in the watercolour wash technique. The shape of the figure is similar to a heap of clouds in the movement of colours, and while there is no attempt at clarification, the figures (mostly female figures) appear as real flesh figures. This skill has been acquired through his long practice and watching the work of oriental artists in the studio.
In most of his works, he has used red, blue, yellow, orange, and black colours with the same brightness. There remains the expanse of standing trees, the glimmer of light through the gaps in the trees, and the evocative silhouettes of childhood memories in his paintings. Almost every work has a touch of blue. The monsoon, rain-drenched nature, the smell of the earth, and the colour of the air are saturated in the melody of nature’s music.
Anis A Khan, Member, board of governors at the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art; Prof Mohammad Eunus, chairman of Art Bangla Foundation; Zareen Mahmud Hosein, director of Shasha Denims Limited and Prof Dr Malay Bala of Department of Oriental Art, Faculty of Fine Art at Dhaka University attended the event as special guests.
The exhibition will be open to all until Saturday, November 11, from Monday to Saturday, 3 to 9 pm.
Winter Hair Fall Issues: Causes, and Solutions
As winter draws near, many individuals suffer the seasonal woe of increased hair loss. During the cold weather days, proper hair care is essential to maintain healthy and luscious hair. Let’s explore the reasons and remedies of winter hair loss.
Common Hair Fall Issues in Winter Season
Excessive Hair Shedding
During winter, many people notice an increase in hair shedding. It is normal to lose some hair daily, but excessive shedding can be a concern.
Dry and Itchy Scalp
The dry winter air can lead to scalp dryness and itching. This discomfort can also exacerbate hair fall issues.
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Brittle Hair
The lack of moisture in the air can make hair more brittle and prone to breakage, leading to further hair fall.
The lack of moisture in the winter air can render hair more fragile and susceptible to breakage. And, it ultimately results in increased hair fall and diminished hair health.
Causes of Losing Excessive Hair during the Cold Months
Cold, and Dry Air
The cold winter air, devoid of moisture, actively parches hair, leaving it dry and highly susceptible to damage. Without adequate humidity, hair's natural moisture balance is disrupted. This makes hair prone to breakage and other winter-induced issues like hair fall.
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Steamy Showers
Steamy showers, although comforting in winter, can contribute to hair fall. The excessive heat and steam strip the hair of essential oils and leave it dry and fragile. This, combined with the dry air can exacerbate the problem and make hair more prone to shedding.
Heat Styling
Heat styling is a common culprit behind winter hair fall. Excessive curling irons use, straighteners, and hair dryers rob the hair of moisture. Such practices make the hair brittle, more likely to break and leads to increased hair shedding.
Nutritional Deficiencies
During winter, nutritional deficiencies can pose a significant threat to hair health. Colder weather often leads to dietary shifts and potentially deprives your body of vital vitamins and minerals crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Such deficiencies weaken hair, making it more susceptible to falling out.
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Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Stress and alterations in winter routines play an active role in hair fall problems. Seasonal changes, coupled with holiday stress, disrupt the body's equilibrium and affect hair growth cycles. This is how increased stress levels can exacerbate hair loss.
Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from
If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, you are in for a treat. This vibrant country offers not only stunning natural beauty but also a unique shopping experience. Malaysia is renowned for its diverse shopping opportunities, from bustling street markets to high-end shopping malls. This article will explore the best souvenirs, home decoration items, and other special treasures to buy in Malaysia.
Best Souvenirs to Buy in Malaysia
When you visit Malaysia, the desire to collect souvenirs that encapsulate the essence of this beautiful nation is nearly irresistible. Malaysia offers an array of choices for those seeking mementoes, each reflecting the rich culture and heritage of the country.
One such option is the exquisite Malaysian batik, a true work of art. These hand-dyed fabrics are adorned with intricate designs and a vivid spectrum of colours. This extends beyond clothing to include accessories and wall hangings available in the vibrant markets and boutiques across Malaysia. These intricate patterns and bold hues make batik an ideal keepsake.
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Traditional Malaysian clothing is another fantastic choice. Women can opt for the elegant 'baju kurung' and 'baju kebaya'. Meanwhile, men have the option of the 'baju melayu,' a timeless symbol of style and cultural significance. These outfits pay homage to the rich heritage of Malaysia.
Handmade crafts are the way to go for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Malaysian artisans’ skills are reflected in the exquisite wooden carvings, rattan baskets, and traditional pottery. These items are not merely souvenirs; they also serve as splendid choices for adorning your home. Their intricate details and cultural significance make them outstanding decorative pieces.
Lastly, Malaysia's reputation as a haven for food enthusiasts makes it an excellent destination for culinary souvenirs. Among the popular choices is Durian Candy, offering a unique experience of the iconic but divisive durian fruit.
Another is Dodol, a beloved sweet treat throughout Southeast Asia, and White Coffee is a unique Malaysian brew known for its creamy, smooth taste. These souvenirs are more than mere items; they are fragments of Malaysian history and culture, destined to be cherished for years to come.
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Home Decoration Things to Buy in Malaysia
Malaysia presents a diverse selection of distinctive items when it comes to enhancing the aesthetics of your home. Malaysian pewter stands out as a prized choice. It offers intricately designed vases, candle holders, and figurines that exude elegance and charm, making them ideal additions to any home décor.
Traditional Malaysian carpets, particularly those originating from Kelantan, are a splendid choice. These are perfect for those keen on incorporating a vibrant Malaysian flair. The carpets are renowned for their complex patterns and vivid hues. They serve as a perfect accent to infuse the living space with a touch of Malaysian culture.
If you are on the lookout for furniture, you may choose Malay rattan pieces. Rattan chairs, tables, and storage units showcase exquisite craftsmanship and also reflect an eco-conscious choice.
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Other Special Things to Buy in Malaysia
Beyond souvenirs and home decorations, Malaysia opens the door to a treasure trove of distinctive items that hold their own unique allure. Among them, fine jewellery commands attention. Gold and silver pieces are adorned with beautiful designs inspired by the rich tapestry of Malaysian culture.
For collectors and history enthusiasts, traditional Malay weapons such as the 'keris' and 'parang' offer an intriguing choice. These weapons bear a rich cultural legacy. It makes them fascinating collectables and also powerful symbols of Malaysia's history.
Food enthusiasts can not overlook Malaysia's status as a culinary paradise with exotic spices and herbs. Lemongrass, turmeric, curry leaves, and more await to elevate your culinary adventures at home.
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Whether you seek a meaningful gift, historical artefacts, or culinary inspiration, Malaysia's diverse offerings extend far beyond then expected. They are perfect to enrich both your home and your life.
Igniting the Fashion Revolution In Bangladesh, Arka Fashion Week begins
Arka Fashion Week, the groundbreaking event with a mission to democratise fashion, kicked off its inaugural edition on Thursday at the Aloki Convention Center, Tejgaon in the capital.
An exclusive initiative of Arka Studio, the Arka Fashion Week comes with a commitment to provide equitable opportunities to all kinds of designers and brands in Bangladesh.
The inaugural day of the three-day fashion week witnessed a bustling Marketplace and was alive with a dazzling array of fashion and cultural celebrations, and marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the country’s fashion industry.
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Over 50 entrepreneurs and brands are participating in this three-day event which works with fashion, fashion accessories, and fashion-related products, made in Bangladesh. Alongside the marketplace, there are several other engaging spaces for the attendees including an exhibition curated by Shehzad Chowdhury and Adrita Mahin Khan on the theme "Analogue to Digital," an interactive space titled ‘Design Lab’ where one can buy a product and create their designs, live concerts with renowned bands and food zone.
As part of the opening day extravaganzas, a pageant competition titled “Miss and Mister Celebrity Bangladesh 2024”, was held at the event. The pageant is a platform to empower individuals and enhance their talents through the grooming of a pageantry journey on a local and international level.
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In Bangladesh, the Azra Mahmood Talent Camp (AMTC) is the license holder for the pageant. AMTC also represents India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. This has been an all-inclusive camp dedicated towards a focused endeavour of transforming models and aspiring models into their world-class counterparts by incorporating years of industry experience and knowledge, transforming the dreams of all men and women into groomed, artistic versions of themselves.
A total of 16 participants, 8 male and 8 female contestants participated this year, and the winners of the titles of Miss and Mister Celebrity Bangladesh 2024 were Sajria Tabassum Proma and Rajiul Islam Shadhin, respectively. They will further go on to represent Bangladesh in Miss and Mister Celebrity International 2024 in Vietnam.
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Distance Learning: Top Universities Offering Online Courses for International Students
As the world grappled with the reality of the pandemic, most of the academic activities across the world moved to online platforms. Educational institutions utilized technological tools to provide classes and even hold exams. And with that, the concept of distance learning resurged in the limelight. Many renowned universities offered distance learning even before the pandemic. With time, it is becoming a popular and convenient way of attaining a higher degree. This article looks at some of the best international universities providing distance learning opportunities.
What is Distance Learning?
The concept of distance learning is nothing new. The earliest example of distance learning dates back to the 1840s. Back then, Sir Issac Pitman taught shorthand to his students via postal mail. However, today’s concept of distance learning largely differs from that of the 1800s.
Distance learning today essentially mimics an actual classroom with teachers and students. Universities across the globe partner with platforms like Coursera, and edX to provide certification courses to aspiring students. Some universities offer these courses on their own platform. Recently, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are also made available through distance learning opportunities.
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8 Best Universities in the World with Distance Learning Opportunities
This list includes universities offering certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It's important to note that distance learning bachelor’s programs are less common than master’s or certificate courses.
University College London
University College London or UCL was founded in 1826. It was established after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. In addition to their London campus, the university has campuses in Qatar and Australia.
UCL has 11 academic wings ranging from arts and humanities to medical sciences. It ranks 12th in US News’ list of Best Global Universities. The university offers 403 undergraduate degrees. Additionally, it offers 621 master’s degrees, and 271 online courses/degrees. The online courses are a mix of certificate as well as postgraduate degrees in all of their available academic wings.
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Parenting a Teenager? 10 Tips to be Their Best Friend
In today's world, parents often face a significant dilemma when raising a teenager. During this stage of life, the teens strive for independence while still requiring guidance and support from their parents. Striking the right balance between being a parent and being a friend to an adolescent child is quite challenging. Let’s take a look at some effective tips for parents to establish a strong, supportive, and amicable relationship with their teenage children.
10 Tips for Parents to Form Friendship with Their Adolescent Children
Open Communication
Strong parent-teen bond hinges on effective communication. Parents should endeavour to foster open, non-judgemental dialogues with their teenage sons and daughters. It creates a safe space for them to freely express their thoughts and emotions. It is essential to bear in mind that actively listening, rather than merely hearing, conveys a genuine interest in their perspective.
Allowing them the freedom to convey their feelings and ideas, even in cases of disagreement, nurtures trust. Trust, nurtured through open, non-judgemental conversations, forms the foundation of a healthy, enduring relationship with adolescents.
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Respect Their Independence
Adolescents strongly desire independence. Granting freedom at a certain level enables them to learn from both their triumphs and missteps, fostering personal growth. Trusting their judgement, even when it may seem risky, demonstrates faith in their abilities and boosts their self-esteem.
However, maintaining a guiding presence is equally important, stepping in when necessary to provide advice and support. Striking this balance of trust and guidance empowers teenagers to become responsible, self-reliant individuals. It also shows that they can turn to parents when needed.
Shared Interests
Discovering shared hobbies or interests is a powerful way to nurture parent-teen friendships. These mutual activities can be anything, from participating in a sport to pursuing a shared hobby or even jointly binge-watching a TV show.
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Engaging in such activities forges a unique bond that transcends the conventional parent-child dynamic. It connects on a personal level and promotes not just enjoyable moments but also meaningful conversations. Sharing interests deepens the connection, rendering the relationship more enjoyable.
5 Tasty Savoury Winter Pitha Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
As the winter approaches, the air carries the scent of festivity. A unique culinary tradition, the art of making winter pitha, comes alive during the cold months in both urban and rural households of Bangladesh. These delectable rice cakes are known for their sweet and savoury flavours. Pitha is an integral part of Bengali culture. Let's explore five delectable savoury winter pitha recipes that will warm your heart and tastebuds.
5 Delicious Savoury Winter Pitha Recipes to Try in Bangladeshi Kitchens
Chitoi Pitha
Ingredients
1 cup rice flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 cup warm water, and 2 teaspoon green chilli.
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Instructions
First, take rice flour, a pinch of salt, finely chopped green chilli, and warm water, creating a smooth batter. Let it rest for 15-30 minutes.
Then, heat a non-stick pan, lightly grease it with oil, and spread the batter around. Cover with a lid, allowing it to steam and cook until soft. Remove with a spatula, place on a plate, and serve with different vortas like mustard, coriander, and dried chilli.
Spicy Chitoi pitha also tastes wonderful with different curries like vegetable curry, beef curry, mutton curry, chicken curry etc.
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5 Tasty Sushi Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
Sushi, a delicacy originating and evolving in Japan, stems from the Japanese words "su" (vinegar) and "shi" (rice). This illustrates its fundamental ingredients. This delightful rice preparation not only stood the test of time but has also transcended borders. It is now gracing the tables in Bangladeshi kitchens and households with its diverse and tantalising flavours. Let’s take a look at some mouthwatering homemade sushi recipes for local food connoisseurs.
5 Delicious Sushi Recipes to Try in Bangladeshi Kitchens
Maki Sushi with Baked Fish
Ingredients
50 grams sushi-grade salmon, 1 avocado, 1 nori seaweed, 170 grams cooked sushi rice, 1 teaspoon wasabi, soy sauce (to taste), 170 grams ready-to-cook skinless mackerel, salt, rice flour, sesame oil (for frying), 2 lettuce, chilli sauce, sesame seeds (for garnish).
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Instructions
First, halve the avocado, remove the pit, and cut it into 1/4-inch strips. The same process needs to be followed for the salmon.
Then, place the nori sheet on a work surface, preferably a plastic-wrapped sushi bamboo mat for the sushi. Spread sushi rice evenly on the nori, leaving a 1/4-inch edge at the top. Add a strip of wasabi down the centre of the rice. Place avocado and salmon strips on top. Sprinkle the exposed nori with water, roll from the bottom, seal gently, and cut the roll into 12 pieces.
To prepare the mackerel, rinse and pat it dry, cut it into 12 pieces, and lightly salt. Coat in rice flour and fry in hot sesame oil until golden. Top the salmon roll with lettuce and mackerel, and serve with sesame seeds and your choice of soy sauce or chilli sauce for dipping.
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