United News of Bangladesh

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a mesmerising destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Temples," Kathmandu offers a unique blend of traditional heritage and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Kathmandu has something for everyone. For Bangladeshis, Nepal is an accessible and affordable travel destination with visa-on-arrival facilities. Let's dive into a detailed city guide to Kathmundu with the best places to see, exciting things to do, and adventurous activities to explore. Best Things to Do in Kathmand . Explore Swayambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple, is one of Kathmandu’s iconic landmarks. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The temple, dating back over 2,000 years, is accessed by climbing 365 steps, where playful monkeys may accompany your journey.  Reaching the top of the temple, you can explore the stupa, enjoy its intricate artwork, and embrace the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. This site is perfect for photography and quiet reflection, making it a must-visit for holidaymakers. Experience the Vibrant Streets of Thamel Thamel is the lively heart of Kathmandu, known for its bustling streets, markets, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can shop for Nepali souvenirs, enjoy local delicacies, and experience the blend of Nepali culture and modern conveniences. Thamel is also a hub for nightlife, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing and exploring. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night Visit Bhaktapur – A UNESCO World Heritage Site Located just outside Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a short drive away and rich in cultural history. The city boasts impressive temples like Nyatapola Temple and the 55-Window Palace. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you will encounter traditional Newari architecture, local crafts, and vibrant squares like Taumadhi Square. B Bhaktapur is also famous for its food, especially the delicious momo (dumplings). A visit here will take you back in time, immersing you in the mediaeval charm of Nepal. Discover Pashupatinath Temple Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu sites in Nepal, is located along the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The sprawling temple complex is home to numerous shrines and pagodas, where visitors can witness religious ceremonies, including public cremations on the riverbanks. The site provides a peaceful yet powerful experience, offering deep insight into Hindu rituals and spiritual practices. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025

In protest against the ongoing genocide and Israeli war crimes backed by Western powers, Drik Picture Library organised a solidarity rally this morning at Rabindra Sarobar in Dhanmondi to commemorate the martyred Palestinian children. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 50,000, with 17,000 of the victims being children. In remembrance of these innocent lives, Drik staff expressed solidarity alongside the children from the organization "Shishuder Jonno Amra" (We for the Children). Mangal Shobhajatra may get a new name: Farooki The rally featured poetry by artist Farzana Wahid Shayan on Gaza’s children and a speech by eminent photographer and Drik Picture Library founding Managing Director Shahidul Alam, highlighting the brutal reality of the ongoing atrocities. “In the same way children are playing here at this amphitheater today, children everywhere in the world should have the same freedom to play,” Shahidul Alam said in his speech. “We are meant to nurture them in such an environment. But Israeli aggression, war crimes, and genocide have shattered this reality.” Shilpakala Academy to hold Eid celebrations 1st time ever He emphasised the importance of standing in solidarity with Palestine and continuing the struggle for their freedom. "People around the world are protesting from their respective positions. We must also keep supporting Palestine so that when our children ask us about our role in this crisis, we can face them with dignity," he added. The rally was attended by Drik’s friends, fellow activists, artists, photographers, and members of the public.

Feeling stressed, unwell, or burnt out at work? A Swiss town is offering a unique approach to healing: art therapy through museum visits, prescribed by doctors. In Neuchâtel, Switzerland, a two-year pilot project has been launched where doctors can prescribe free visits to any of the town's four museums for patients they believe could benefit from exposure to art. Mangal Shobhajatra may get a new name: Farooki Local authorities are covering the costs of these "museum prescriptions," based on a 2019 World Health Organization report which highlighted the positive effects of the arts on mental health, trauma recovery, cognitive decline, frailty, and premature mortality. Art can serve as preventive medicine, helping to relax the mind. Additionally, museum visits encourage physical activity through walking and standing for extended periods. Julie Courcier Delafontaine, a council member in Neuchâtel, noted that the COVID-19 crisis also contributed to the program's creation. "During the lockdowns, people realized just how much we need cultural sites to feel better," she said. So far, around 500 museum prescriptions have been distributed, with a budget of 10,000 Swiss francs (around $11,300). If successful, the program could be expanded to include other forms of artistic expression, such as theatre or dance. Although the Swiss national healthcare system doesn't yet recognize culture as therapy, Courcier Delafontaine hopes the program’s success will change that. Marianne de Reynier Nevsky, the town’s cultural mediation manager, who helped create the program, mentioned a similar initiative in Montreal, Canada, in 2019. She believes it could benefit a wide range of patients, such as those suffering from depression, chronic illness, or mobility issues. The goal is also to encourage patients who are reluctant to leave their homes to get moving. Dr. Marc-Olivier Sauvain, head of surgery at Neuchâtel Hospital, has already prescribed museum visits to patients to help them prepare physically for surgery. He expects a wider rollout after a control group is established. "It's wishful thinking to tell patients to walk or stroll to improve fitness before surgery," Sauvain explained. "Museum prescriptions offer both physical and intellectual exercise." For patients, this approach is often more appealing than traditional treatments. "It's really nice to prescribe museum visits rather than medications or tests that patients don’t enjoy," Sauvain said. World Mime Day 2025 celebrated in Dhaka Some visitors to the museums, like poet and retired teacher Carla Fragniere Filliger, have expressed their support for the initiative. "I think it’s a great idea," she said during her visit. "There should be prescriptions for all the museums in the world!"

Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that the name of the New Year's Mangal Shobhajatra may be changed. The adviser shared this information with reporters after a meeting on the national celebration of the Bengali New Year as well as the New Year celebrations of the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Garo, and other ethnic groups at the Secretariat on Sunday. Dr Jamil’s statements were not entirely true: Farooki A meeting will be held at Dhaka University on Monday to finalise the new name, he added. Farooki also said that this year’s Mangal Shobhajatra, which will involve participation from all ethnic groups, will feature new elements including colours, scents, and melodies. He mentioned that "this time you will see new things in the Shobhajatra that will come out from the Fine Arts. You will witness these changes firsthand." “We won’t reveal all the details yet; it’s a teaser. Those who join will see the changes for themselves,” he added. Adviser Farooki explains suspension of theatre festival He further said that this Shobhajatra was initially called ‘Anando Shobhajatra’, and later it became ‘Mangal Shobhajatra’. Since it has already undergone one name change, it could change again if there’s consensus. If everyone is in favour, it might not be changed.” The adviser said this year’s Shobhajatra is no longer just for Bangalees; it is for everyone — Bangalees, Chakmas, Marmas, Garos, and others. “We must ensure the name reflects inclusivity, so it doesn’t feel exclusive or limited to one group. We want to avoid putting anyone in a bracket,” said the adviser.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) and Bangladesh Mime Federation jointly celebrated World Mime Day 2025 on Saturday with a discussion session and mime performances at BSA's Studio Theatre Hall, Segun Bagicha in the capital. This year’s celebration carried special significance, as it marked the 102nd birth anniversary of legendary French mime artist Marcel Marceau. The event, which commenced at 7 pm, was presided over by Soleman Mehedi, acting President and organiser of Bangladesh Mime Federation. The federation’s General Secretary Mahbub Alam delivered the welcome speech, while its former General Secretary Dhiman Saha Jewel also spoke at the event. Prominent mime artist Zahid Ripon, a former chairman of the Bangladesh Mime Federation, and Mohammad Jasim Uddin, deputy director of the Theatre and Film Department at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, participated in the discussion, shedding light on the current state and future of mime art. The speakers reflected on the contributions of pioneering mime artists in Bangladesh, including Partha Pratim Majumder, Kazi Mosharul Huda, Zillur Rahman John, Debangshu Hore, and internationally acclaimed mime artist Rizwaan Rajon, the founder of Bangladesh's modern mime movement. Mime veteran Dewan Mamun, the first mime artist from post-independence Chattogram, was also present at the event. Highlighting various aspects of mime art, the speakers urged for the implementation of more programmes to promote the country's mime scene. Following the discussion, mime performances were presented by member troupes of the Bangladesh Mime Federation, including Mirror Mime Theatre, The Mummers, Shawon Mime Academy, and Mime Troupe. Additionally, at 7:30 pm, a special production of William Shakespeare’s 'Macbeth' was showcased by theatre troupe Swapnadal at BSA's Experimental Theatre Hall, while the Silent Theatre of Chattogram celebrated the day in collaboration with the District Shilpakala Academy, Chattogram. World Mime Day is observed globally on March 22 to honour Marcel Marceau, who was born on this day in 1923 in Strasbourg, France. Since his passing on September 22, 2007, this day has been celebrated worldwide to pay tribute to his legacy.

Anna Bhobho, a 31-year-old housewife from rural Zimbabwe, once played a passive role in her home, excluded from financial and family decisions in a patriarchal society. Today, she has become a catalyst for change in her village, thanks to her electric tricycle. In many rural parts of sub-Saharan Africa, women have traditionally been excluded from key economic activities such as running public transportation. However, solar-powered three-wheelers are changing that dynamic, providing new financial opportunities and boosting women’s confidence. "My husband now relies on me to cover many expenses, including purchasing furniture and other assets," Bhobho shared at a market in Wedza, where she transports crops for farmers about 150 kilometers (nearly 100 miles) from Harare. The three-wheelers, known as "Hamba" (meaning "go" in Ndebele), are powered by solar-charged lithium-ion batteries. In 2019, the local startup Mobility for Africa began a pilot program, leasing the vehicles to groups of women for $15 a month. Today, women like Bhobho can buy them through a lease-to-own program. "I used to depend on my husband for everything, even money for bread," she said. Now, Bhobho owns land, operates a small grocery store, is paying off a car, and has enrolled her children in a private school with better resources. She earns up to $300 a month, on par with government workers such as schoolteachers. Beyond the financial benefits, Bhobho has gained a sense of self-worth. "Even my husband and in-laws respect me more now. I never had a voice before, but now I have a seat at the table for important decisions," said Bhobho, a mother of three. Carlin Thandi Ngandu, the community engagement coordinator for Mobility for Africa, reported that 300 women across Zimbabwe are part of the program, aiming for women to make up 70% of the beneficiaries. In Wedza, only women own and operate the tricycles. They receive training in safe driving, and for just $1, they can exchange a lithium battery for a fully charged one after covering 100 kilometers (about 70 miles). Motorcycles are a popular form of transport in sub-Saharan Africa, with some shifting to electric versions to reduce fuel costs. The United Nations Environmental Programme is also promoting electric two and three-wheelers in several East African countries. In Nigeria, a green energy company and the UK’s Foreign Office are providing 120 electric three-wheelers to women, supporting both sustainability and economic empowerment. In Zimbabwe, many women’s lives have been transformed, even for those who don’t own tricycles but use them for daily tasks. The days of carrying heavy loads of firewood, water, or farm produce over long distances are over. These tricycles can navigate narrow paths that cars can't access, reaching remote homes and gardens. Their affordability makes them accessible to the local population. Hilda Takadini, a tomato farmer, said her business has thrived since she started using Bhobho’s services. Previously, she had to leave home at 3 a.m. and use an ox-drawn cart to travel 18 kilometers (11 miles) to the market. She often arrived too late, and her tomatoes would spoil. "Now, I get better prices because I can reach the market on time with fresh tomatoes. Even my children can rely on me for school fees," said the 34-year-old mother of six. At Wedza shopping center, several women wait with their tricycles, which can carry up to 450 kilograms (nearly 1,000 pounds) and reach speeds of 60 kph (37 mph). They transport passengers, patients heading to hospitals, and people with goods like bricks, groceries, and firewood. However, the women face challenges like rough terrain, worsened by recent rains, and resistance from some men who are uncomfortable with women taking leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Beyond business, the tricycles are improving healthcare access, especially for women and children. Josephine Nyevhe, a volunteer community health worker, uses her tricycle to bring medical services closer to rural families. On a recent afternoon, Nyevhe arrived on her tricycle, set up a weighing scale, and measured children’s growth while providing nutrition advice and referring severe cases to the local clinic. Her tricycle often serves as a village ambulance. "I am always on standby. I get calls at all hours and rush people to the hospital. Sometimes, it’s a pregnant woman who would have delivered at home in unsafe conditions," Nyevhe said, wearing her brown uniform.

The UK continues to attract students around the world with its rich educational institutes, academic system, heritage, and vibrant culture. Yet, the high cost of tuition and living expenses often stands as a challenge. Fortunately, several universities offer affordable courses with standard curricula and education. These hidden gems balance affordability and academic excellence. Let’s explore the ten most budget-friendly universities in the UK for international students in 2025. 10 Most Affordable UK Universities for Non-EU and International Students in 2025 . University of Chester Nestled in the historic city of Chester, this university offers a diverse academic portfolio, with strong programs in business, engineering, social sciences, and health-related fields. Tuition fees range from GBP 10,250 to 20,000, equivalent to BDT 1,614,990 to 3,151,200 (1 GBP = BDT 157.56). The University of Chester provides monetary grants through international and Commonwealth scholarships, making quality education more accessible. Read more: How Bangladeshi Students Can Attest Certificates Online Before Going Overseas Chester stands out for its student-friendly environment, ensuring a well-supported academic experience. The city also offers a promising job market that allows students to gain valuable work experience alongside their studies. Leeds Beckett University Situated in the vibrant city of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University is renowned for its diverse academic programs, including business and management, nursing, sports science, engineering, creative arts, and law. The cost of tuition falls between GBP 10,000 and 17,850, translating to BDT 1,575,600 and 2,812,446. Financial support is available through the Bright Futures Scholarship, Professor Bligh Scholarship, and other university grants. Leeds is an affordable alternative to London, offering a lower living cost while maintaining excellent amenities for students. The city is a thriving hub for technology startups, hosting the Leeds Digital Festival, making it a hotspot for career opportunities in the tech sector. Read more: Study in Lithuania: Application Process, Visa, Scholarships, Costs, and Benefits University of Cumbria With campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London, the University of Cumbria delivers a broad academic spectrum, specialising in arts, business, education, and health.  Tuition expenses vary from GBP 10,500 to 17,800, converting to BDT 1,654,380 to 2,805,168. Financial aid is accessible through international and progression scholarships, easing the financial burden for students. Cities like Carlisle and Lancaster offer a more affordable expense of living compared to metropolitan areas, ensuring students can manage expenses efficiently. Employment opportunities vary by location; Carlisle and Ambleside maintain steady job markets. However, Lancaster shows moderate employment prospects, and London remains highly competitive. Read more: Study in South Korea: Admission, Visa, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for International Students University of Bolton Located in the town of Bolton, the University of Bolton is well regarded for its study areas in engineering, business, and creative technologies. With tuition fees ranging from GBP 9,950 to 15,950 (BDT 1,567,722 to 2,513,082), it remains a budget-friendly choice for global students. Financial support is accessible through the International Excellence Scholarships, further reducing the financial burden. Bolton is known for its affordable cost of living, making student life manageable. Additionally, the town benefits from its close proximity to Manchester, a major employment hub. Read more: Study in Russia: Application Process, Visa, Scholarships, Costs, and Benefits Teesside University Based in Middlesbrough, this university features popular fields of study like business, engineering, and health sciences. Academic fees are set within the range of GBP 9,750 to 19,000, equating to BDT 1,536,210 to 2,993,640. Teesside University provides financial aid through the Global Excellence Scholarships and ASEAN Excellence Scholarship. Middlesbrough is known for its low living costs, making it one of the more affordable student cities in the UK. The local job market is steadily expanding, particularly in the digital and creative industries. Read more: How To Prepare For Higher Studies Abroad After HSC University of Bedfordshire With campuses in Luton and Bedford, the University of Bedfordshire delivers specialized programs in business, engineering, social sciences, and health. Course fees fluctuate between GBP 9,535 and 18,400, converting to BDT 1,502,335 and 2,899,104. Students can benefit from scholarships such as the International Undergraduate Subject-Specific Scholarships and A Level and IB Scholarships. Luton, in particular, offers a cost-effective living environment compared to London, allowing students to manage their expenses effectively. Being near the capital, Bedfordshire students have access to abundant career prospects across multiple industries. Read more: Higher Studies in Italy: Application Process, Costs, Student Visa, Scholarships, and Benefits University of Sunderland Renowned for its excellence in education and teaching, health studies, nursing, psychology, and social work, the University of Sunderland provides students with a strong academic foundation. Educational fees extend from GBP 10,500 to 17,000 (BDT 1,654,380 to 2,678,520), making it a cost-effective choice for foreign students. Financial support is available through the Global Leaders Scholarship and International Scholarship. Situated in Sunderland, a city known for its affordable living costs, students benefit from a lower cost of accommodation and daily expenses. The local job market is expanding, particularly in manufacturing and digital industries. Read more: Higher Studies in England: Application, Study Cost, Scholarship, and Other Scopes University of West London Students at this university can explore diverse fields such as nursing, midwifery, hospitality, social sciences, law, policing, arts, sound recording, and audio engineering. Students can expect to pay between GBP 10,800 and 15,000, equivalent to BDT 1,701,648 and 2,363,400. The University of West London extends financial aid through the International Ambassador Scholarships, UWL International Scholarship, and High Achievers Scholarship. Positioned in the heart of London, students experience a high cost of living, requiring careful budgeting. However, the city compensates with its vast job market, presenting numerous opportunities across multiple industries. Read more: Studying for Bachelor’s in Romania: Application Process, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students Coventry University Offering strong academic programs in business and management, computing, design and creative arts, engineering and technology, health studies, law, nursing, psychology, and social work, Coventry University attracts students globally. The tuition structure spans from GBP 10,900 to 20,050 (BDT 1,717,404 to 3,159,078). Educational funding options like the CU Coventry Undergraduate Scholarship and Vice-Chancellor Undergraduate Scholarship make education more accessible. Based in Coventry, students enjoy a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to major UK cities. The growing job market in Coventry provides a promising environment for graduates, ensuring better career prospects post-study. Read more: How to Register for IELTS Exam in Bangladesh London Metropolitan University With a dynamic academic portfolio, this university offers diverse fields of study like art, architecture, design, human sciences, social professions, social sciences, computing and digital media, business, and law. Course fees fluctuate between GBP 9,535 and 14,500, equivalent to BDT 1,502,335 and 2,284,620. Study grants are available through the International Bright Futures Scholarship, supporting students in their educational pursuits. Situated in London, the London Metropolitan University is positioned in a city known for its high living costs, requiring students to plan finances carefully. However, the capital maintains a robust job market, as it is home to many top global companies. Read more: Studying for Bachelor’s Degree in Hungary: Cost, Scholarships, Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students Wrap Up These 10 cheapest UK universities for international students in 2025 feature financial structures capped under GBP 20,000 (BDT 3,151,200). London Metropolitan University, University of Bolton, and University of West London stand out as some of the most affordable choices. The University of Chester and Coventry University are among the costliest options. Teesside University, University of Bedfordshire, Leeds Beckett University, University of Cumbria, and University of Sunderland position them as middle-tier alternatives. In essence, all of these academic institutions present attractive options, providing the opportunity to fulfil the dream of non-EU students to study in the UK. Read more: Study in France: Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has announced on Thursday that for the first time ever, it is set to organise an Eid celebration, embracing the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The academy will host the programme titled 'Elo Khushir Eid' at its Nandan Moncho on March 30 from 7 pm onwards, celebrating the 'Chand Raat' (night before the Eid day). BSA has shared the poster image of the event with the media and is yet to reveal the details of the event; however, Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki shared the announcement image on social media on Thursday, making the announcement of the event. "For the first time, Shilpakala Academy is hosting an Eid celebration. Bangladesh is a land of many languages, beliefs, and religions," Farooki wrote on his Facebook. "Everything in the diverse society we live in is a part of our culture. Bangladesh will celebrate it all! The politics of division are no longer welcome here," the cultural adviser wrote. CA Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and others have also shared the announcement image, and netizens on social platforms have been applauding the decision made by BSA for the first time ever.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) launched a three-day workshop on Sufi and Qawwali music on Thursday, organised by its Training Department. The workshop commenced at the seminar room of the BSA National Theatre Hall and will run daily from 2 pm to 5 pm till March 21. Qawwali artist Md Samir Hossain (Samir Qawwal) is leading the workshop as the chief trainer, while the course is being directed by Begum Kamrun Nahar, course coordinator of the Training Department, while senior instructor (music) S M Shamim Akhtar is serving as the coordinator. A total of 15 participants are attending the workshop. The workshop aimed to highlight the diversity of Sufi and Qawwali music, ensuring equal importance to all musical genres. According to Shilpakala Academy, it sought to train new Sufi and Qawwali artists and promote these traditional musical forms among the general public through this initiative.

A comedy play titled “Songs of Hawkers” was staged at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Thursday, offering a humorous yet insightful portrayal of street hawkers’ lives. Organised by Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), the play will be reprised at the same venue at 3:30 pm on Friday. Kashmir’s Sufi Music enthusiasts hold on to cassette tapes Directed by French theatre artist Zazie Hayoun, 'Songs of Hawkers' blends elements of dance, music, puppetry, acrobatics, and clowning to depict the vibrant, chaotic world of Bangladeshi hawkers. The play incorporates the French theatrical technique of Grand Guignol, a 19th-century form known for its dramatic storytelling. Throughout her international career, Hayoun has focused on capturing the essence of everyday life, transforming seemingly insignificant details into compelling narratives. In this production, she presents three interwoven stories – The Secret, The Thief Rewarded, and The Competition – highlighting the struggles, humour, and resilience of street vendors. The cast includes Imam Hossain, M S Rana, P K Fazal, and Suraiya T Mou, with a creative team led by Hayoun as writer and director. Prajna T Rubayyat and Farjana Akter served as assistants, while music was led by Rahul Ananda; tune and composition of the song ‘Dog Eat Dog World' were done by Gopi Debnath, and choreography contributions came from Farhad A Shamim. With a duration of one hour, Songs of Hawkers pays tribute to the hawkers who add rhythm and poetry to urban life through their relentless chants and daily hustle. ‘Hajong’: Aslam Molla’s first solo photography exhibition to be held Friday The play, performed primarily in Bangla with some English dialogue, offers free entry upon confirmation via [email protected]. It will continue at the same place and time on Friday.