United News of Bangladesh

A British mountain guide has scaled Mount Everest Sunday for the 19th time breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world’s highest mountain by a non-Sherpa guide. Kenton Cool, 51, from southwest England, scaled the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak on Sunday along with several other climbers and he was doing well and on way down from the summit, said Iswari Paudel of Himalayan Guides Nepal, which equipped his expedition. Cool first climbed Mount Everest in 2004 and has been doing it almost every year since then. He was unable to climb Everest in 2014 because the season was canceled after 16 Sherpa guides were killed in an avalanche, and again in 2015 when an earthquake triggered an avalanche that killed 19 people. The 2020 climbing season was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Hundreds of climbers and their guides are at the mountain during the popular spring climbing season, hoping to scale the world's highest peak. Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students Many of them have already succeeded while more are expected to make their attempt before the climbing season closes at the end of this month when weather condition deteriorates with the coming of the rainy monsoon season making climbing difficult. Only Nepali Sherpa guides have scaled the peak more times than Cool. The highest number of climbs of Mount Everest is 30 times by Nepali Sherpa guide Kami Rita, who is also on the mountain currently and expected to make the climb in the next few days.

For international students, studying abroad is not just about earning a degree—it is also about gaining global work experience. A post-study work visa (PSWV) plays a vital role, allowing graduates to remain in their host country and explore career opportunities. If you are planning your academic journey overseas, consider countries that support your professional aspirations after graduation. Here is a comprehensive look at the best 10 countries offering generous PSWV options for Bangladeshi and other international students.  Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students . Australia Australia is a top choice for international students, offering world-renowned universities, a high quality of life, and diverse cultural experiences. With cities like Melbourne and Sydney ranking among the best student cities globally, Australia combines academic excellence with lifestyle perks.  After graduation, students can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which includes two streams: Post-Vocational Education and Post-Higher Education Work. Depending on your qualifications, this visa allows you to stay and work in Australia for 18 months to 4 years. The country’s strong job market in IT, healthcare, and engineering, alongside its beautiful landscapes and welcoming society, makes it an ideal place to launch your global career.  Read more: How Bangladeshi Students Can Attest Certificates Online Before Going Overseas UK The UK remains a premier study destination, offering world-class education and strong post-study work opportunities. Through the Graduate Route, international students can stay in the UK for up to two years after completing an undergraduate or master’s degree—and three years for PhD graduates. However, the duration of PSWV will be reduced shortly, according to a recently published white paper by the UK government. This visa allows graduates to work or job hunt without employer sponsorship. Although it cannot be renewed, it can serve as a pathway to a Skilled Worker Visa, paving the way for long-term residency opportunities. The UK boasts a diverse job market, particularly in finance, tech, healthcare, and creative industries, providing global exposure and career growth in one of the world’s leading economies.  New Zealand New Zealand offers international graduates a fantastic blend of high-quality education and breathtaking natural beauty. With five universities ranked among the top 250 globally, it provides strong academic and research opportunities. After graduation, students can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing them to work for any employer for one to three years, depending on their qualification level and study duration.  Read more: Student Visa to PR: Top 5 Countries for International Students to Get Permanent Residency Those who complete a Level 7 qualification or higher and studied full-time for at least 30 weeks enjoy even more job flexibility. New Zealand, with its expanding job market in IT, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism, combined with its laid-back, outdoor-orientated lifestyle, stands out as a top choice for post-study opportunities.  US The United States remains a top destination for international students seeking world-class education and career opportunities. After completing at least one academic year under an F-1 visa, students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing them to work for 12 months in their field of study without employer sponsorship. STEM graduates benefit from an additional 24-month extension.  For long-term employment, graduates can transition to the H-1B visa, sponsored by a U.S. employer. While the process can be competitive, the U.S. job market is rich with opportunities across sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare. With prestigious universities and cutting-edge research, the U.S. offers unmatched professional and academic growth.  Read more: 10 Cheapest UK Universities for Non-EU, International Students Canada Canada is a top destination for international students, offering excellent education, a multicultural environment, and a high standard of living. Graduates from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) may qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years. To be eligible, students must complete a program lasting at least eight months.  The PGWP offers a valuable chance to gain Canadian work experience, which can be a stepping stone toward permanent residency. With strong job markets in technology, healthcare, and finance, and a focus on work-life balance, Canada remains a favoured choice for students pursuing both education and career growth.  Germany Germany offers international graduates excellent post-study work opportunities in one of Europe’s most stable economies. Non-EU/EEA students who graduate from a recognised German university can extend their residence permit for up to 18 months to find a job. During this period, they can work in any role to support themselves, even if it is unrelated to their field.  Read more: Higher Studies in Finland For Bangladeshi Students: Admission, Visa, Scholarship, and Costs Once employed in a relevant profession, graduates can apply for a work visa or the EU Blue Card, which may lead to permanent residency. With a strong job market in engineering, technology, and healthcare, along with affordable education and a high quality of life, Germany is a top destination for career-focused students.  Singapore Singapore is a top study destination in Asia, known for its prestigious universities like NUS and NTU and its focus on research and innovation. After graduation, international students can apply for a one-year Long-Term Visit Pass to seek employment. Depending on qualifications and job offers, they may also be eligible for the Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass.  These options allow graduates to work and gain valuable experience in sectors such as finance, tech, and healthcare. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and dynamic economy, Singapore offers excellent opportunities for international students looking to build global careers.  Read more: Study in South Korea: Admission, Visa, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for International Students The Netherlands The Netherlands offers the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) Visa, allowing graduates from Dutch universities—or top 200 universities globally—to stay for up to one year to find employment. This visa lets holders work full-time or part-time without needing a separate work permit during the search period.  Eligible applicants must apply within three years of graduation and hold a valid study visa. The Netherlands is known for its strong job market, particularly in sectors like tech, engineering, and sustainability. With access to career fairs, networking events, and job support services, plus a high quality of life, it is an excellent destination for international graduates.  Spain Spain offers a Job Search Visa for non-EU international students, allowing them to stay in the country for up to one year after graduation to seek employment. To qualify, applicants must have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD from a recognised Spanish university, hold valid medical insurance, and show proof of sufficient funds.  Read more: Study in Russia: Application Process, Visa, Scholarships, Costs, and Benefits The application must be submitted within 60 days before or 90 days after the student visa expires. This visa opens doors to Spain’s growing job market, particularly in tourism, engineering, and IT. With its warm climate, rich culture, and excellent quality of life, Spain is an ideal post-study destination.  France France offers international graduates the APS Visa (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour), a two-year temporary residence permit that allows them to work or start a business after completing a master’s degree or higher from a recognised French institution. Applicants must apply within four years of graduation.  This permit provides flexibility to explore various job opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures. France is especially attractive for careers in fashion, luxury goods, and technology. With its vibrant culture, strong economy, and high demand for skilled professionals, France offers international students a promising environment to gain experience, build networks, and potentially transition to long-term work visas.  Read more: How To Prepare For Higher Studies Abroad After HSC Verdict Choosing the right country for post-study work depends on your career goals, field of study, and immigration preferences. Each destination offers unique advantages, from extended visa durations to clear residency pathways. Carefully compare opportunities, job markets, and lifestyle benefits to make the best decision for your future.

Norwegian grandmaster Magnus Carlsen is playing a single game of chess against 140,000 people worldwide in a mega-match that could overturn expectations by ending in a draw in the next few days. Billed as “Magnus Carlsen vs. The World,” the online match began April 4 on Chess.com, the world’s largest chess website, and is the first-ever online freestyle game to feature a world champion. While Chess.com had predicted Carlsen would win by a wide margin, his Team World opposition could force a draw if it checks Carlsen’s king three times. “Right now we’re heading towards a draw by perpetual check,” Carlsen said in a statement on Friday. “I felt that I was a little bit better, early in the opening, then maybe I didn’t play that precisely. Honestly, since then, they haven’t given me a single chance. So now, I think, it’s just heading towards the draw.” He added: “Overall, ‘the world’ has played very, very sound chess from the start. Maybe not going for most enterprising options, but kind of keeping it more in vein with normal chess — which isn’t always the best strategy, but it worked out well this time.” As a freestyle match, the bishops, knights, rooks, queen and king are randomly shuffled around the board while the pawns remain in their usual spots. Freestyle chess is popular because it allows players to be more creative and avoid memorization. Team World votes on each move and each side has 24 hours to make their play. Carlsen is playing the white pieces. Curtain rises on Kazi Salahuddin Ahmed’s solo exhibition ‘Debris’ at AFD “For most of the world, it is their first chance to say they’ve played a chess game against Magnus Carlsen,” Mike Klein, senior journalist with Chess.com, told The Associated Press. “I think ‘the world’ is going to be kind of tickled pink to be able to say, ‘I was part of a draw against Magnus Carlsen.’” Klein has played, and lost, to Carlsen twice in blitz matches in a hotel bar when the Norwegian was bored during some downtime in a world championship. “He beat me twice without much effort, so I would have happily signed up for a draw in any of those games,” Klein said. A grandmaster at 13, Carlsen enjoys celebrity status that few other chess players have. The 34-year-old became the world’s top-ranked player in 2011 and has won five World Championships. He achieved the highest-ever chess rating of 2882 in 2014 and has remained the undisputed world number one for more than a decade. Last year, he garnered headlines for quitting a tournament in New York after refusing to change out of the jeans he wore to the competition. He later accepted a $200 fine and officials agreed to loosen the dress code. Carlsen auctioned the jeans off for charity and donated the winning $36,100 bid to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a national youth-mentoring charity that carries out its mission through local chapters across 5,000 communities nationwide. Grandmaster vs. The World This is the third “vs. The World” record-setting online game. In 1999, Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov played against more than 50,000 people on the Microsoft Network. A few top-ranked players helped steer the world’s moves, but Kasparov won after four months and hailed it as “the greatest game in the history of chess.” Klein was a summer camp chess teacher at the time. “We would start class each day by checking out Kasparov’s next move and talking about it and spending a few minutes each morning deciding what we’d reply,” Klein said. Indian grandmaster Viswanathan Anand won his “vs. The World” match last year against nearly 70,000 players on Chess.com. The goal of the Carlsen match was to break Anand’s 70,000-player mark, and ended up doubling it.      

The solo painting exhibition titled ‘Debris’ by Kazi Salahuddin Ahmed has begun at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) in the capital’s Dhanmondi on Saturday. Eminent artist Monirul Islam joined the opening ceremony as the chief guest, while Mustafa Zaman, director of the Department of Fine Arts, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), also joined the event as the special guest. The exhibition showcases almost 30 acrylic works on board paper, offering viewers a glimpse into the artist’s latest explorations. Kazi Salahuddin has lived through the 1971 war and, even today, continues to witness devastation in regions such as Syria, Russia, Kashmir, and Myanmar - destruction that is entirely man-made. These tragedies, driven by the pursuit of power and control, have profoundly shaped his worldview; and over the decades, these experiences have left a lasting impression on his artistic journey, influencing both the themes and emotional depth of his work.

A 30-year-old woman in Georgia, USA, Adriana Smith, has been on life support for the past three months after being declared brain dead — a situation complicated by the state’s stringent abortion law. Smith, who was pronounced brain dead in February following a medical crisis, remains on life support because doctors say they are legally barred from ending treatment due to her ongoing pregnancy. Her mother, April Newkirk, said that under Georgia's restrictive "heartbeat law" — which bans abortions after cardiac activity is detected, typically around six weeks — removing life-sustaining care could result in the fetus’s death, which the law seeks to prevent. Currently 21 weeks into the pregnancy, Smith’s fetus faces uncertain prospects. "He may be blind, may not be able to walk, may not survive once he's born," said Newkirk, voicing fears about her grandson’s future. The case underscores the legal and ethical complexities of Georgia’s abortion restrictions, which grant fetuses legal personhood. State Senator Ed Setzler, a Republican who authored the 2019 law, supports the hospital’s stance, saying it aligns with the law’s intent to protect fetal life. However, reproductive justice advocates argue the law strips families of vital medical decision-making rights. Monica Simpson of SisterSong, an organization supporting women of color, said the family has suffered greatly during the three-month ordeal, facing emotional trauma and financial strain while being denied closure, reports NDTV. 2 dead and at least 3 injured in Las Vegas gym shooting, police say Critics also point to broader consequences of the abortion ban, citing the deaths of Georgia women Amber Thurman and Candi Miller, who suffered fatal complications after taking abortion pills but were reportedly denied adequate care. Vice President Kamala Harris has linked these tragedies to post-Dobbs abortion restrictions in Georgia and other states.  

During the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, one word seems to echo everywhere: sauna. While the northern Swiss city isn't typically associated with steamy, wood-paneled retreats, the Finnish village of Vörå certainly is. This year, three performers from there have brought sauna culture center stage at Eurovision. The group KAJ — pronounced “kai” and named after the initials of its members — is currently the top contender to win the continent-wide competition with their song “Bara Bada Bastu,” a playful homage to heat and steam that roughly translates to “just take a sauna.” Though KAJ is representing Sweden, its members hail from neighboring Finland, a nation of 5.5 million people and home to an astonishing 3.3 million saunas. The trio belongs to Finland’s Swedish-speaking minority. Their Eurovision act features a woodland cabin-style set, with dancers clad in either lumberjack outfits or oversized white towels. The performance is packed with a catchy chorus, energetic choreography, and a single, repeated word — “sauna!” — that fans now shout at the group wherever they appear. “The Eurovision bubble is a great bubble to be in,” Jakob Norrgård told The Associated Press on Thursday. He’s the J in KAJ, alongside fellow band members Kevin Holmström and Axel Åhman. Norrgård said that he expected Eurovision to be a welcoming environment, “but not this friendly. This is a bit over the top.” McDonald's to hire 375,000 workers in the US this summer The band members’ only regret is that they haven’t had a sauna since arriving in Basel for Eurovision, which ends Saturday with a grand final that will see acts from 26 countries compete at Basel’s St. Jakobshalle arena for the continent’s pop crown. Holmström said that the band is delighted to be an ambassador for sauna culture. “It’s a thing I really endorse,” he said. “It’s good for people. It is good for me, for both my mental and physical health, and (it’s) also a very social event.” KAJ was formed in 2009 and built a strong local following with humorous songs in Vora’s local dialect. Not long ago they were performing at birthday parties and in town halls of their home region. They entered Sweden’s national Eurovision selection contest, Melodifestivalen, thinking it might get them some gigs in Sweden. They unexpectedly won that contest, and their performance in Saturday’s Eurovision final is likely to be watched by more than 150 million people. The Eurovision winner will be decided by a mix of public voting and points from national juries. Victory for KAJ would give Sweden a record eight victories since the contest was founded in 1956, adding KAJ to a list of Swedish winners that includes ABBA. It would also mean a huge amount to Swedish-speaking Finns, who make up about 5% of Finland’s population — and to sauna enthusiasts. Sauna-lovers from Vora — along with the Finnish city of Tampere, which bills itself as the sauna capital of the world — drove a mobile sauna 1,500 miles (2,500 kilometers) to Basel, parked it near the Rhine and opened it to the public for free during the weeklong Eurovision festivities. A dip in the chilly river after working up a sweat was optional. It sparked the kind of cultural cross-fertilization that fans say is the essence of Eurovision. At the pop-up sauna, local Swiss people steamed and chatted with Finns, a Canadian and others. When KAJ dropped by for a visit, they were mobbed by selfie-seeking fans. “I love Finnish sauna culture, because it celebrates the freedom of choice,” said Dorothee Schulte-Basta, a Vora resident who traveled to Basel with the mobile sauna. “There are no rules in the sauna. Come as you are — everyone’s equal in the sauna.” Finnish politicians have long used saunas, relaxed but exposing, as an ideal setting for hard talks, a practice known as “sauna diplomacy.” KAJ wear drab suits onstage in tribute to Urho Kekkonen, a long-serving Finnish president who famously deployed the technique in talks with Finland’s overbearing neighbor the Soviet Union. KAJ never thought a lo-fi song about rural saunas would take them so far at a competition known for electro-pop, outrageous outfits and over-the-top staging. “When you sit there on the stage and the song is about to start and you see all the LED screens, the millions of lights, and we’re just three dudes sitting and grilling a sausage, the contrast is so funny,” Norrgård said. “And that’s exactly our type of humor — you shouldn’t be doing this, this is so stupid. It’s funny. It’s really cool as well.”      

Rising high above the Dee Valley in Northeast Wales under the United Kingdom, a remarkable structure stretches across the landscape, both graceful and bold. Known as the 'Stream in the Sky,' the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as the tallest navigable aqueduct in the world. This awe-inspiring engineering marvel has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts travellers worldwide. Let’s explore the waterway that defies gravity. Architect of Elevation: The Visionary Behind This Specialty Suspended high above the River Dee, this aqueduct invites a rare encounter with both nature and ingenuity. At 38 metres above the ground and stretching 307 metres in length, this 'Stream in the Sky' appears to defy gravity. Its presence is as serene as it is commanding, an elevated ribbon of water slicing through the skies of North Wales. Completed in 1805 after a decade of construction, the aqueduct stands as a masterpiece of the Industrial Revolution. Its creator, Thomas Telford, a visionary known as "The Colossus of Roads", combined structural brilliance with poetic ambition. The result: an enduring monument to progress, elevated quite literally. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Comprising 18 massive stone arches, the sky-bound channel carries the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley, linking England to Wales. Nestled within an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this engineering marvel remains as functional as it is breathtaking. Crossing Heights: Breathtaking Experiences Adventuring over the span of the waterway demands more than curiosity; it calls for composure at elevation. Kayakers, paddle boarders, and narrowboat passengers all share the same breathtaking route. Each navigates a narrow channel flanked by open air and far-reaching countryside views. For those who prefer their feet on solid ground, walking the aqueduct provides a steadier yet equally rewarding perspective. The gentle sway of the towpath and uninterrupted vistas make for a contemplative journey. At day’s end, the nearby visitor centre offers insight into its construction, detailing the techniques and vision behind its creation. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Just steps away, the Pontcysyllte Tea Rooms present a peaceful retreat. Whether after a skyward adventure or a valley walk, this welcoming stop completes the experience. From Global Heritage to Viral Wonder Since being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 27 June 2009, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has steadily grown into one of the most visited landmarks in Wales. Each year, it draws over half a million visitors. They are captivated by its towering design, engineering significance, and sweeping views over the Dee Valley. In recent years, the historic structure has also found fame in the digital sphere. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts capturing the experience of walking, kayaking, or boating across its narrow expanse. Its videos amassed over 1.8 million views, sparking widespread fascination across the internet. The structure’s sheer height and dramatic setting have made it a favourite subject for reels, travel vlogs, and scenic montages. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Reactions in the comment sections reveal a mix of awe, nostalgia, and personal connections. Some praised it as one of the most exciting adventures in North Wales. Others recounted family ties to its maintenance or restoration. A few expressed a sense of vertigo while admiring the beauty, describing the railings as unnerving yet the surroundings as unforgettable.

McDonald’s announced on Monday that it plans to hire up to 375,000 restaurant workers across the U.S. this summer — marking its largest seasonal hiring effort in years. The fast-food giant, based in Chicago, says the increase in job openings is partially driven by its ongoing U.S. expansion. With over 13,500 U.S. locations currently, McDonald’s aims to open 900 additional restaurants by 2027. To make the announcement, U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer joined McDonald’s U.S. President Joe Erlinger at a location near Columbus, Ohio. “McDonald’s is creating economic momentum for its workers, communities, and the broader economy,” said Chavez-DeRemer. “By growing its workforce, the company is encouraging investment and serving as a model for industry-wide growth—whether it's a stepping stone to another career or a path to advancement within the company.” McDonald’s Quarter Pounder back on the menu after testing rules out beef patties as E. coli source McDonald’s emphasized that the roles are intended to be permanent, though its overall workforce likely won’t exceed 1.1 million employees due to regular staff turnover. The company last undertook a major summer hiring campaign in 2020, when it planned to recruit 260,000 employees as it reopened locations closed early in the pandemic. This year’s hiring push reflects optimism that customer traffic at U.S. restaurants will pick up as 2025 progresses. However, in the first quarter of this year, McDonald’s U.S. same-store sales fell by 3.6% — the steepest drop since early 2020 — as inflation-weary lower- and middle-income customers spent less on fast food. Despite the dip, McDonald’s isn’t alone in its positive outlook. According to the National Restaurant Association, restaurants and bars in the U.S. added over 46,000 jobs in March and April. Chipotle also announced earlier this year its plans to hire 20,000 workers. Overall job growth remains steady, with 177,000 jobs added in April across the U.S., even amid ongoing economic uncertainty. Monday’s announcement also highlighted the 10th anniversary of McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity initiative. The program has provided educational support — including tuition assistance, English language training, and career services — to over 90,000 employees. So far, the program has awarded $240 million in tuition assistance. Anamaria Monterroso, who has worked at McDonald’s for eight years, said the program is helping her become the first in her family to earn a college degree. She’s currently pursuing a degree in human resources at Colorado Technical University. “Working in fast food doesn’t mean your aspirations have to stop,” Monterroso said.

A six-day group art exhibition titled ‘Pahar O Paharer Jibon’ (Mountains and Mountain Life) began on Sunday at Safiuddin Shilpalay in the capital’s Dhanmondi area, marking the occasion of Mother’s Day. Now in its ninth edition, the exhibition has been organised by women’s art collective Jolkonna and features the works of 12 women artists. It will remain open to visitors every day until May 16, from 11am to 8pm. Jolkonna is a unique platform for women artists, especially those without formal academic training, who explore and express their creativity through visual storytelling—primarily using watercolour and mixed media. The name combines the Bengali words for ‘water’ (jol) and ‘colour’ (rong), reflecting the collective’s artistic identity and medium. This year’s edition features 33 pieces rendered in watercolour, ink, and other media, highlighting themes of nature, motherhood, and the everyday lives of mountain communities. Art exhibition geared towards children at Alliance Française wins acclaim The exhibition was jointly inaugurated by Professor Farida Zaman, head of the Printmaking Department at Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, and noted actress and filmmaker Chitralekha Guho. Both praised the participating artists for their resilience and dedication, particularly those balancing their creative journeys with motherhood. “I became a mother early in life. Balancing my creative career with motherhood hasn’t been easy. At times, I had to carry my child on set and work went on regardless. But no one truly understands that part of our struggle,” said Chitralekha. Prof Farida shared, “As a mother, I’ve had to move forward from very difficult places. My dream of becoming an artist was nurtured through challenges. I built my studio from scratch while holding my children in my arms.” The opening ceremony also featured poetry recitations by Mahi Farhana and Nishat Jesmin, musical performances by Swapna Barnadette Francis and Mahbuba Sultana, and traditional hill songs sung by Elina Chakma, adding a vibrant cultural layer to the event. Maine's hidden 'Sistine Chapel' inspires artists with 70-year-old frescoes Curated with the assistance of artist Ashok Karmakar, the exhibition is sponsored by City Bank PLC. Participating artists include Suporna Alice Gomes, Azadi Parvin, Sabina Nasrin, Elina Chakma, Tereza Isha Gomes, Flora Urmila, Jacqueline Ria Rozario, Maleka Sultana Nupur, Shama Sultana, Mahi Farhana, Aparna Torpador Mou and Sharifa Mehosa.

Eminent musicologist, writer, and researcher Mustafa Zaman Abbasi was laid to rest at Azimpur Graveyard in the capital on Saturday, as tributes poured in from across the country mourning the loss of a towering figure in the arena of Bangladeshi music and culture. Abbasi, 88, passed away early Saturday morning at a hospital in the capital after suffering from respiratory complications. He had been battling age-related ailments for some time, according to family sources. Following his Janaza after Zuhr prayers at Gulshan Azad Mosque, Abbasi was buried beside his father, the legendary folk singer Abbasuddin Ahmed, and his mother Lutfunnesa Abbasi at Azimpur Graveyard. Born on December 8, 1936 in Balrampur village of Cooch Behar, India, Abbasi spent his early years in Kolkata before moving to Dhaka. He completed his BA and MA from Dhaka University and pursued another degree in Marketing. Abbasi, a former director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, was revered for his research on Bengali folk music, especially Bhawaiya, Murshidi, and the songs of Bhati Bangla. His writings and television works brought little-known rural musicians and lyricists to national attention. Following the news of Abbasi's death, eminent writer and his lifelong friend Hasnat Abdul Hye shared a deeply personal tribute on Facebook on Saturday, recalling: “I had planned to visit my college and university friend Tulu (Mustafa Zaman Abbasi) this morning. As I was getting out of bed, our childhood friend Din Mohammad informed me that he had passed away the night before." "We shared a long friendship and countless memories. Today will remain steeped in nostalgia and sorrow," Hye penned, remembering his lifelong friend. Last tributes paid to Sanjida Khatun at Chhayanaut One of Abbasi's family members and granddaughter, singer Armeen Musa, shared her grief in a tribute post, writing: “My choto nana Mustafa Zaman Abbasi's music has touched many hearts, and his passing will be a grave loss for his audience and his family whom he always showered with love.” “He introduced us to immensely talented folk artists from remote corners of the country. Despite his urban upbringing, he sang with the soul of rural Bengal,” Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, wrote on Facebook. “Though his death, we lost a giant in music, arts, and culture.” Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman also expressed his condolences, praising Abbasi's contributions to Bengali cultural heritage. In a Facebook post on Saturday, he described Abbasi as a member of a traditional cultural family and highlighted his significant impact on the development of healthy cultural practices in Bangladesh, and prayed for Abbasi's soul and offered his deepest sympathies to his family and admirers. Bangla Academy, where Abbasi was a Fellow, issued a statement noting his unmatched contributions to the preservation of Bengali folk culture and his deep involvement with the institution’s folklore initiatives. “A multifaceted writer and scholar, Abbasi played a vital role in upholding the traditions of folk music and cultural heritage,” stated Mohammad Azam, Director General of the Academy. Besides, the Chief Adviser's office issued an obituary yesterday, many other music artists, literateurs, cultural personalities, organisations and institutions, including his former workplace Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, also shared heartfelt tribute to Mustafa Zaman Abbasi. People pay tributes to poet Helal Hafiz at Bangla Academy Abbasi’s long-running column “Godhulir Chhayapothe” in the daily Prothom Alo was revered by the readers for its blend of memory, insight, and musical history. Besides, he has hosted numerous television programmes and well regarded for his majestic songs and ghazals. He is survived by a celebrated family of music artists including sister Ferdousi Rahman, niece Nashid Kamal, and granddaughter Armeen Musa. His late wife Asma Abbasi was a distinguished educator and author.