United News of Bangladesh

Is ketchup a smoothie? HEINZ and Smoothie King are boldly answering “yes” with the launch of the HEINZ Tomato Ketchup Smoothie, the first-ever smoothie made with real HEINZ Simply Ketchup. This limited-edition blend mixes ketchup with Acai sorbet, apple juice, strawberries, and raspberries for a tangy-sweet summer sip, available for $5.70 at select Smoothie King stores in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Miami, and Greater New York/NJ. Crème fraîche creates a creamy broth in this recipe for briny-sweet steamed clams “When we saw this debate gaining traction, we had to jump in,” said Kraft Heinz VP Angie Madigan. Smoothie King’s Lori Primavera added, “We’ve created a savory-sweet blend that celebrates the tomato in all its glory.” Fans can weigh in online using #KetchupSmoothie. Source: Agency 

The photographic publication titled 'Witness to the Uprising' by noted photojournalist Jibon Ahmed was launched on Tuesday at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), drawing a diverse audience of journalists, artists, intellectuals, and members of the diplomatic community. Edited by Mashruk Ahmed and jointly published by University Press Limited (UPL) and Netra News, the 350-page book features over 170 striking photographs along with journal entries documenting the events of the July Uprising in 2024 — one of the most turbulent chapters in Bangladesh’s recent history. Shot while on assignment and later while in hiding, Jibon Ahmed’s work offers a deeply personal and fearless visual narrative of protest, resistance, and the eventual collapse of a regime. His lens captures the raw emotion and chaos of the streets, standing as a testament to the power and responsibility of photojournalism under fire. July Martyrs: Foreign Adviser opens month-long photography and graffiti show  

A peaceful gardening game on Roblox, created by a 16-year-old in just a few days, has become an unexpected viral hit this summer — offering players a calming escape from reality or a way to beat summer boredom. Called Grow a Garden, the game has broken records for the highest number of concurrent players on any game platform, outperforming massive, multi-million dollar productions. Unlike typical games that revolve around combat or racing, this one focuses entirely on cultivating plants — no fighting required. Even if you forget to water your crops, your virtual vegetables still grow. The gameplay is simple and relaxing: players grow and harvest crops, care for animals, and can trade — or even steal — from other gardens. The design resembles Minecraft, with tranquil classical music like Mozart's Rondo Alla Turca playing in the background. The game's laid-back style has made it hugely popular, reinforcing Roblox's status as a cultural hub for younger audiences. “This game is just chill — that’s the word I hear the most,” said Betsy Bozdech, editorial director at Common Sense Media. “It has an Animal Crossing feel. You can check in, plant seeds, and do your own thing. My 11-year-old plays it and loves that there's no pressure or major goal.” The game’s meteoric rise coincided with the announcement that Grand Theft Auto 6 would be delayed until next year. Around that time in late June, Grow a Garden hit 21.6 million concurrent players, surpassing Fortnite’s record of 15.2 million. Market analysts say the game is boosting Roblox’s revenue and could lead to stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings. It's unclear whether GTA fans are turning to gardening in the meantime, but the game's success has reignited long-standing debates over what defines a “real” gamer. Cozy games like Candy Crush, Animal Crossing, and now Grow a Garden are often dismissed by the gaming elite, who favor action-packed titles like Call of Duty or GTA. Janzen Madsen, CEO of Splitting Point Studios, which acquired the game, believes the industry is underestimating this trend. “People think Roblox is immature or weird, but I think this is what players will want in five years,” he said. “And if traditional developers don’t catch on, they’ll be left behind.” To begin playing, users create a Roblox account and are given a starter plot, some in-game currency called “sheckles,” and a basic seed. Players can grow crops, sell them, and use the money to expand their gardens with new seeds, animals, or tools. While the game can be played for free, spending real money speeds up progress. Popular YouTuber Leah Ashe (5.3 million subscribers) says the game's appeal lies in collecting rare items. “I’m a completionist — I want everything,” she said. “What’s fun is how the global seed shop refreshes every five minutes, so everyone’s looking out for rare seeds together. It really brings people together.” For Roblox, which has faced criticism over child safety concerns, the success of Grow a Garden — along with new safety features like chat filters and privacy tools — has offered a much-needed boost. The game has also fostered a helpful community, with experienced players gifting items and alerting newcomers when rare seeds are in stock. Bozdech added that, with the right parental oversight, Roblox can be a creative and safe platform. “Games like Grow a Garden could even be a great way for parents and kids to play together,” she said. And the appeal may not be limited to kids. “It’s striking a chord,” Bozdech concluded. “We all need a little escape right now — and this game provides just that.”

The month-long celebrations commemorating the historic July Uprising of 2024 will continue with a grand public event on Tuesday on Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, featuring cultural performances, a symbolic celebration of the fall of fascism, the historic reading of the July Declaration, and a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' among daylong festivities. Organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) with support from the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat, the event will begin at 11am and run throughout the day. The cultural programme will kick off with performances by the band Tong, including songs like ‘July-er Puthi Gaan’, ‘Ami Chitkar Kore Kadite Chahiya’, and ‘Teesta Bachan, Dhobla Bachan’. This will be followed by Saimum Shilpigoshthi performing revolutionary songs including ‘Jegei Jokhon Uthechho Bondhu’, ‘Ei Andolon Sofol Hobe’, ‘Aay Tarunno Aay’, and ‘Boichhey Batash Boiree’. Kolorob Shilpigoshthi will present ‘Tribhubone Priyo Muhammad’, ‘De De Pal Tule De’, ‘Teer Hara Oi Dhewyer Shagor’, and ‘Delhi Na Dhaka’. Solo performances will include ‘36 July’, ‘Manush Manusher Jonno’, and ‘Palashir Prantor’ by Nahid, and ‘Bangladesh’, ‘Ami Banglay Gaan Gai’, ‘Chol Chol’, and ‘Karar Oi Louho Kopat’ by Tashfee. Following a break for Zuhr prayers, Chittagong Hip-Hop Hood will take the stage with tracks such as ‘Pehenol’, ‘Nawab’, ‘Rafqi’, and ‘Re 89’. Rapper Sejan will follow songs like ‘Kotha Ko’, ‘I Ain’t A Killer’, and ‘Hudai Hutashe’. Rock band Shunno will perform ‘Shotho Asha’, ‘Godhulir Opare’, ‘Behula’, ‘Bedona’, ‘Rajahin Rajjo’, and ‘Shono Mohajon’. At 2:25pm, a symbolic commemoration of the fall of fascism will be observed, followed by a performance by popular singer Shayan featuring ‘July-er Gaan’, ‘Ami Gaichi Sobai’r Jonno’, and ‘Tajjob Bone Jai’. Singers Ethun Babu and Mousumi will present ‘Deshta Tomar Baper Naki’, ‘Gonojagoroner Gaan’, ‘Maa’, and ‘Amader Bangladesh’. Iconic bands Souls and Warfaze will then perform back-to-back. Souls will play ‘Dekha Hobe Bondhu’, ‘Mon Shudhu Mon Chhuyeche’, ‘Brishti Dekhe Onek Kedechhi’, and ‘Nissongota’, while Warfaze will deliver ‘Maharaj’, ‘Osamajik’, ‘Nei Proyojon’, ‘Obak Bhalobasha’, ‘Purnota’, and ‘Tomake’. After Asr prayers, the historic July Declaration will be read, followed at 5:30pm by ‘Amra Korbo Joy’ performed by the Basic Guitar Learning School. Ethnic band F Minor will present ‘Meye’, ‘Mukti’, and ‘Dahuk’. Singer Parsha will perform ‘Chol Bhule Jai’, ‘Muktir Mondire’, and ‘Mora Jhonjhar Moto’. After Maghrib prayers, Elita Karim will present ‘Dhono Dhanno’, ‘Palashir Prantor’, and ‘Ghure Darao’. The highlight of the evening will be a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' from 7:30pm to 8pm. Authored by The Anonymous and jointly presented by the Governments of Bangladesh and China, the show will feature 2,000 drones recreating key moments and slogans from the July Uprising, showcasing scenes of student and public mobilisation that led to the eventual victory. Finally, headliners Artcell will close the night with performances of ‘Swadhinota Medley’, ‘Dukkho Bilash’, ‘Pothchola’, ‘Onno Shomoy’, ‘Bangladesh’, and ‘Kandari Hushiyar’. The entire event will be open to the public, according to BSA.  

The recent removal of a reference to Donald Trump’s impeachments from a Smithsonian museum exhibit has triggered renewed debate over how history is preserved, presented — and potentially manipulated — especially when it involves powerful political figures. On Friday, the Smithsonian Institution confirmed it had taken down mention of Trump’s 2019 and 2021 impeachments from a temporary exhibit panel on the U.S. presidency. While the museum denied facing political pressure from the Trump administration, the move has drawn scrutiny amid broader concerns about the politicization of historical memory. The museum said the exhibit will soon be updated to reflect all presidential impeachment proceedings throughout American history. Trump, now seeking a return to the White House, has long called for institutions under federal oversight to focus on “national achievements” rather than what he labels “divisive” topics. In response to the panel’s removal, the White House issued a statement, without addressing impeachment directly, saying it supports updating displays to “highlight American greatness.” But historians and scholars argue that historical accuracy cannot be compromised for political comfort. A wider campaign to reshape historical narratives?The Smithsonian's decision comes against a backdrop of past actions by Trump’s administration to reshape cultural and historical institutions — such as removing a gay rights activist’s name from a Navy ship, seeking to defund public broadcasting, and reshuffling leadership at major cultural centers. How to protect yourself from wildfire-related air pollution “This is part of a broader effort by the president to influence and shape how history is depicted at museums, national parks, and schools,” said Julian E. Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. “It’s not just about the country’s narrative — it’s about his place in it.” The debate echoes similar struggles elsewhere. In authoritarian regimes like China and the former Soviet Union, history has often been rewritten or censored to maintain state power and suppress dissent. In such systems, inconvenient facts and figures are erased from textbooks and public memory alike. Jason Stanley, a leading scholar on authoritarianism, emphasized how crucial control over history is for political dominance. “If they don’t control the historical narrative,” he said, “then they can’t create the kind of fake history that props up their politics.” Presidents shaping their own legacy — and limitsThe impulse to manage historical memory is hardly unique to Trump. U.S. presidents and their families have long sought to influence how they are remembered — from Jackie Kennedy’s editorial influence over accounts of JFK’s assassination to Ronald and Nancy Reagan orchestrating sympathetic documentaries. Yet, scholars argue that Trump’s approach goes further. Rather than merely shaping his legacy, critics say he is fostering an atmosphere where institutions may feel pressured to choose between political loyalty and historical truth — even without direct orders. Robin Wagner-Pacifici, a sociologist at the New School, said such museum exhibits are essential for helping people “situate themselves in history.” Without them, she warned, “it seems like we just kind of burst forth from the Earth.” China’s traditional Baijiu spirit gets a makeover to woo younger drinkers Timothy Naftali, who helped overhaul the Nixon Presidential Library to give a more objective account of the Watergate scandal, called the Smithsonian’s decision “concerning and disappointing.” “Museum directors need red lines,” said Naftali, now at Columbia University. “Removing this panel crosses one.” Power and memoryDespite his immense influence, Trump’s fixation on museum exhibits and public memory shows that legitimacy in politics is never fully secure, experts say. “He’s constantly working to reshape how the public sees him and the country,” said Wagner-Pacifici. “Power has to be reconstituted constantly. It can never rest on its laurels.” Trump has previously accused the Smithsonian of promoting a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” reinforcing how the presentation of history — especially in public institutions — has become a battleground in America’s ongoing cultural and political struggles. Source: Agency 

Smoke from wildfires can travel vast distances and significantly deteriorate air quality far from the fire's source, posing health risks even in areas not directly affected by the flames. Fires burning in one region can spread smoke across multiple states, and wildfires in Canada have also sent polluted air into U.S. cities. Here's what you need to know to stay safe when air quality worsens due to wildfire smoke: Understanding bad air quality The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to rate air pollution. A lower AQI means better air quality: 0–50: Good51–100: Moderate101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groupsAbove 150: Unhealthy for allSensitive groups include individuals with asthma, lung conditions, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to Dr. Sanjay Sethi of the University at Buffalo. “If you have heart or lung problems, then you’ve got to be definitely more careful," he said. Staying indoors or wearing an N95 or at least a dust mask is recommended in such conditions. How to check your air quality Sometimes you can see or smell smoke, but even if it's not visible, the air can still be harmful. The EPA provides real-time air quality updates on its website. In addition, PurpleAir offers detailed, hyper-local data through a citizen science-based monitoring network. Blood sugar monitoring devices gain fans, experts advise caution For indoor air readings, Joseph Allen of Harvard University’s Healthy Buildings Program suggests buying a low-cost air quality monitor, widely available online. If you need to go outside Brief outdoor exposure usually doesn't cause long-term harm for healthy individuals. However, experts recommend wearing an N95 mask, which can block 90–95% of harmful particles. “If you have a respirator-type mask, that’s even better,” said Jennifer Stowell of Boston University’s Center for Climate and Health. If you start to wheeze or feel short of breath, return indoors or move to an area with cleaner air. Improving indoor air quality Keep windows closed and set your air conditioner to circulate indoor air.Use blankets or towels to seal gaps under doors or around windows where outdoor air might enter.Upgrade your air conditioner filter to a MERV 13, if possible, and ensure it’s properly installed.Use a portable air purifier, especially in the room where you spend most of your time.Stowell emphasized the value of using even a basic room air purifier to reduce indoor pollution.

A special group art exhibition titled 'The Trendsetters' featuring works by 10 talented Bangladeshi artists has been inaugurated on Friday evening at Bhumi Gallery in the capital’s Lalmatia. The opening ceremony began at 6:30 pm and was inaugurated by internationally acclaimed artist Monirul Islam as the chief guest. Art connoisseur Gitanka Debdip Datta attended the ceremony as the special guest, and a number of renowned and emerging artists, art critics and art lovers were also present at the event. Organised by Bhumi Gallery, the exhibition showcases artworks by Anukul Chandra Majumder, Azmeer Hossain, Kamal Uddin, Sadek Ahmed, Kazi Shahid, Sohag Parvez, Abdullah Al Bashir, Kamruzzoha, Shahanoor Mamun and Sourav Chowdhury. Highlighting the exhibition’s theme, the organizers said that art reflects human thought, struggle, and society. Each generation gives rise to creative minds who challenge norms, redefine practices, and inspire others. 'The Trendsetters' presents the artistic journey of 10 promising and established young artists who are developing their own visual languages and occupying a significant space in the contemporary art scene. The exhibition features 70 artworks in diverse styles and mediums—ranging from realism and abstraction to experimental and traditional expressions. Despite their artistic differences, all works are unified by originality, persistence, and passion. These artists not only represent individual success but also serve as role models for emerging creators. Their works embody a strong sense of cultural identity while engaging in global artistic dialogues. According to the gallery, 'The Trendsetters' is more than just an exhibition—it is a forward-looking initiative where bold creatives are guiding, inspiring, and becoming voices of the future. Their works demonstrate that with dedication, integrity, and creative courage, Bangladeshi art can proudly take its place on the global stage. The 12-day exhibition will remain open to all every day from 4 pm to 9 pm until August 12.

Baijiu, China’s centuries-old high-proof liquor known for its fiery flavor and strong presence at business banquets, is undergoing a transformation as distillers target younger, health-conscious consumers. Distilled mainly from sorghum and containing up to 60% alcohol, baijiu is central to Chinese drinking culture and social rituals like the customary gan bei (bottoms up) toast. Yet as modern drinkers shift away from heavy drinking and lavish feasting, baijiu’s producers are innovating to stay relevant. “If you like spirits and haven’t tried baijiu, it’s like eating noodles but never trying spaghetti,” said Canadian wine expert Jim Boyce, founder of World Baijiu Day. The annual event promotes awareness of the spirit outside China, where it’s less known than whiskey or vodka. The most famous variety, Moutai from Guizhou province, was famously praised by U.S. diplomat Henry Kissinger during a 1974 banquet with Deng Xiaoping. But despite its prestige, baijiu sales have slumped in recent years. According to the China Alcoholic Drinks Association, Feitian Moutai’s price has dropped 36% this year, and overall baijiu production is expected to decline for an eighth consecutive year in 2025. Letting children grow: Tips for instilling a love of gardening Crackdowns on official extravagance and workplace drinking, coupled with an economic slowdown, have weakened demand. In May, the Communist Party banned alcohol during work meals as part of its anti-corruption efforts. In response, baijiu makers are adapting. Some, like Kweichou Moutai, launched innovations like Moutai-flavored lattes with Luckin’ Coffee, reportedly selling 5 million cups daily. Others are infusing baijiu with fruit, bottling it in sleek designs, and lowering alcohol content to under 10% to attract Gen Z consumers. Brands like Jiangxiaobai use poetic packaging and lifestyle-oriented marketing. Bartenders are also embracing baijiu in cocktails to appeal to younger palates. “Baijiu is quietly making its way into our lives,” said Shirley Huang, 27, sipping a baijiu-based cocktail in Beijing. “It may not appear as itself, but it reemerges in new forms.” Source: Agency 

A six-day public exhibition titled ‘Bidrupe Bidroho’ (The Power of Satire) got underway at the Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) on Thursday evening, attracting a large and enthusiastic crowd on its opening day. Organized by the renowned satire platform Earki, the exhibition commemorates the first anniversary of the 36-day mass uprising of July 2024, exploring satire as a powerful tool of political resistance. Scheduled from July 31 to August 5, the exhibition revisits the creative expressions that shaped the 2024 movement, where citizens demanding justice and democracy turned to humor and wit as forms of defiance. From cartoons, memes, and graffiti to protest songs, poetry, and video installations, satire became a bold medium for voicing dissent against political oppression.

Encouraging children to develop a love for nature and gardening can not only teach them patience and responsibility but also help them form healthy habits that last a lifetime. Experts say the best way to inspire children is to start young and give them ownership of their gardening experience. Let them choose their plants Taking children to a plant nursery and letting them select what they want to grow can spark early interest. While picking annuals or perennials, it’s important to consider safety and the garden’s conditions—such as sunlight or drainage. Some plants, like tomatoes, potatoes, and rhubarb, have toxic leaves and stems, so parents should supervise closely. For edible gardening, let kids choose vegetables they enjoy eating. Experts say they are more likely to care for what they plant and feel proud when their produce becomes part of a family meal. This can also positively influence their food choices over time. Child-sized gardening tools—rakes, hoes, spades, and gloves—can be bought new or sourced from garage sales and online marketplaces. Even regular kitchen spoons can serve as makeshift tools. Thailand provides safe shelters for pets left behind amid border clashes Make it their own At home, children can measure out a small 3-square-foot plot to serve as their personal garden space. Those without access to outdoor space can use containers with proper drainage. Encouraging children to name their garden areas—such as “Ayaan’s Garden” or “Maya’s Marigolds”—helps build a sense of ownership. They can even name each plant, adding a personal touch that deepens their connection to the garden. Teach, but let them learn by doing Children should be taught that gardens need food and water, just like they do. Parents can show the signs of under- or over-watering, but it’s best to let kids observe and decide when care is needed. Observing the sun’s path together can help them understand plant needs. While guidance is important, experts advise against expecting perfection. Kids should be allowed to get dirty, make mistakes, and learn—such as discovering that an unripe tomato doesn’t taste as good as a ripe one. A calendar—placed somewhere visible like the fridge or a bedroom wall—can help children take responsibility for watering and weeding. Checking off tasks adds a sense of achievement. Gardening offers more than just flowers or food—it provides valuable life lessons, encourages healthy habits, and creates lasting memories between parents and children. And for many families, that may be the most rewarding harvest of all.