Lifestyle
AFD hosts classical music concert featuring Maxime Zecchini, Isabelle Durin
Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) hosted an exquisite evening of classical music featuring the renowned French pianist Maxime Zecchini and the accomplished violinist Isabelle Durin on Sunday, February 18 at its Dhanmondi premises.
This unique collaboration between pianist Maxime Zecchini and violinist Isabelle Durin brought together their artistry, creating a harmonious blend that captivates audiences.
The concert traversed a diverse musical landscape, offering a rich tapestry of emotions and artistic expression, according to a press release.
Maxime Zecchini, a graduate of the Paris and Lyon Conservatories, holds the distinction of being the first French pianist to complete his studies at the renowned “Incontri col Maestro” Academy in Imola, Italy.
He has achieved numerous accolades, including winning the Arcachon International Competition, being a laureate of the Cziffra Foundation, and being awarded the prestigious First Prize at the International Competition of Varenna – Lake Como in Italy, all through unanimous decisions.
He has been invited to perform in about fifty countries: tours in Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Japan, South Africa, Australia, Russia, Central America.
He has performed in recital or concert repertoire, which is as sensitive as it is virtuous and spectacular at the Beijing Opera, the Shanghai Opera, the Kyiv Philharmonic, the Malaysian National Symphony Orchestra, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and elsewhere.
Maxime Zecchini is also a recipient of scholarships from the Marcel Bleustein Blanchet Foundation, the Meyer Foundation and the Société Générale Musical Patronage. He has been accredited by the Mission du Centenaire and supported by the Bru Zane Foundation of Venice.
Violinist Isabelle Durin completed her studies at the Conservatoire de Versailles under the guidance of Alexandre Brussilovsky. She then obtained her diploma at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Lyon, studying with Jean Estournet and Kazimierz Olechowski. Continuing her education, she pursued chamber music at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Paris, studying with Alain Meunier and Michel Strauss.
Besides her musical education, she has also achieved a DEA in Philosophy from Sorbonne University. Her passion for symphonic music has also brought her to the Orchestre National d’Ile-de-France and the prestigious stage of Philharmonie de Paris.
In addition to her many qualities as a performer, she has extended her passion as artistic director of the “Les Harmonies Estivales” festival and now at the Motte-Tilly festival. With pianist Michael Ertzschield, Isabelle Durin released the Mémoire et Cinéma CD in 2018, based on a selection of films on Jewish culture, which has enabled her to meet a wide range of audiences.
Brac Bank Reading Café book ‘Protishwor’ published at Boi Mela
A first in Bangladesh, a book written by a group of literary enthusiast bankers, has hit the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela.
This is the first book written by reading club members of a bank in Bangladesh, according to a press release.
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Brac Bank Reading Café has published the book “Protiswor”, a diverse collection of 67 short stories, poems, essays, travelogues, and satires penned by 57 co-workers of the bank, it said.
According to Brac Bank, the book is dedicated to the martyrs of the Language Movement of 1952. Published by Rochoita Publishers, the book is available at stall-590 at the Bangla Academy Book Fair and also at renowned book stores.
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The book has been edited by a panel of Brac Bank Reading Café members led by Ekram Kabir, Head of Communication of the bank. Illustrated and designed by Lutful Hossain, the 224-page book costs Tk 300, said the release.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the book, the bank’s Managing Director and CEO Selim RF Hussain said: “I am elated to share that our colleagues have put their efforts together to publish a book. This feat has made the entire BRAC Bank Family immensely proud."
“At BRAC Bank, we create an environment where our colleagues can nurture creativity at a professional level and in personal space,” he added.
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The book's publishing epitomises the passion, hard work and enthusiasm of a group of bibliophiles at BRAC Bank who worked day and night to make this a reality, the release said said.
The bank’s reading circle was formed by a group of book enthusiasts who are passionate about literature and encourage collaboration and critical thinking among their coworkers.
Each month, the Reading Cafe members read one book and come together to discuss various aspects of it.
The Reading Café is a testament to the institution's dedication to nurturing a holistic and intellectually stimulating work environment, it said.
By bridging the gap between the financial industry and the literary world, BRAC Bank aims to inspire a more enlightened, thoughtful, and well-rounded community of professionals.
The creation of this book club aligns with Brac Bank's commitment to fostering personal and professional growth and improving work culture.
Shopping in Singapore: What to Buy, Where to Buy from
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore stands as a cosmopolitan hub that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Amidst its towering skyscrapers and cultural landmarks, the city-state offers an incredible shopping experience that caters to every taste and preference. This article will explore the bustling markets, luxurious malls, and hidden gems that make shopping in Singapore an unparalleled experience.
Most Popular Shopping Malls in Singapore
ION Orchard
ION Orchard is situated in the heart of Orchard Road standing as a luxurious shopping haven. This stylish architectural marvel illuminates like a futuristic beacon, drawing fashion enthusiasts and luxury shoppers. With flagship stores of global brands, it beckons those in pursuit of high-end fashion, exquisite jewellery, and sophisticated lifestyle products.
VivoCity
VivoCity, situated on the HarbourFront, is the largest shopping mall in Singapore, boasting over 300 stores. Renowned for its diverse offerings, it features top-notch fashion brands, entertainment choices, and a breathtaking rooftop view. VivoCity is aptly labelled as a shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle hub rolled into one.
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Curtain rises on ‘Learning from Puran Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Heritage’ at AFD
On Friday, an architecture exhibition titled ‘Learning from Puran Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Heritage’ began at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) in the capital’s Dhanmondi.
Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union in Bangladesh Charles Whiteley, Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy, and Antonio Alessandro, Italian Ambassador in Bangladesh, were present at the inauguration ceremony.
Thijs Woudstra, Chargé d'affaires at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Bangladesh and Prof Dr Khandaker Shabbir Ahmed, President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh also joined the event.
This exhibition is the outcome of a two-week architectural research study by a group of architecture students from the universities of ENSA, Paris la Villette; BUET, Dhaka; BVCOA, Navi Mumbai; C.A.T., Trivandrum; and Mokpo University, South Korea.
They split into several working groups to investigate endangered heritage, circular economy, urban agriculture, innovation as part of traditional activities, informal sectors, public space distribution, and corporate culture in Puran Dhaka.
Amid its rapid growth, Dhaka risks losing its architectural and living heritage. An intricate relationship exists between Puran Dhaka and the river Buriganga, and this field workshop will explore this relationship and highlight the various aspects of living heritage still thriving in the old labyrinths of the city, according to the organizers.
A team of 44 students and 12 mentors worked together to map and document these aspects of the old city. This study encompasses various elements, including the evolution of Bara Katra from a residential area in Mughal times to an economic hub for the neighbourhood, albeit losing its original purpose.
It explores the hierarchy of public open spaces in the Armanitola neighbourhood and delves into the traditional craft of Shankhari bangle-making by learning from Shankhari artisans. Additionally, it examines the preservation of Bangla culture in Tanti Bazar, where the sheen of gold contributes to the swift transformation of the built heritage.
The study also highlights the enduring literary and cultural legacy in Bangla Bazar, the presence of Gol Talab as a rare oasis in densely populated Puran Dhaka, and the changes in the mansions of Zamindars in Mongolabash. Finally, it delves into the wood-to-paper connections in the Farashganj neighbourhood.
The efforts of this extensive and informative research project can be explored at the exhibition open to all at La Galerie till Friday, February 23, from 3pm to 9pm every day.
The opening was followed by a performance art titled ‘Gaaner Kuli’.
Rooftop Restaurants in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur for Delicious Food and Instagram Photos
Are you looking for an Instagrammable place to spend some quality time with good food while taking in the view of the city from a considerable height? In this bustling city of Dhaka, a rooftop restaurant can be a beautiful getaway that offers a glimmering view of the skyline and a serene escape from the crowded streets below. Located in Dhaka’s north, Mohammadpur has several Instagram-worthy rooftop restaurants with enchanting views and a cozy laid-back atmosphere. Let’s check them out.
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Rainforest Café
Rainforest Café is another great option for rooftop dining with friends and family. The café is located on Tajmahal Road right on the main street. The management undertook renovations recently to revamp the look of the café. There’s a large indoor sitting area perfect for large groups. Adjacent to that is the kid’s play area.
The outdoors has been tastefully decorated with trees, shrubs, and a fish aquarium. Each table has been made into a hut-like structure giving it a forest-like look.
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The café serves oriental, Chinese, and Italian cuisines. There’s a curated Chinese platter for students as well.
Rainforest Café remains open from 11 AM to 11 PM every day.
Garden SHIP
Located on Taj Mahal Road, Garden SHIP is your typical family restaurant with a great ambiance. The restaurant is beautifully designed to give it a ship-like look on the inside. The large spacious indoor seating is perfect for group or family dine-outs.
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The back of the restaurant has their cozy rooftop section. It offers a beautiful view overlooking the greenery of the Dhaka Residential Model College.
Garden SHIP has a wide variety of menus. From Thai, Chinese, Indian to seafood, the restaurant offers something for everyone. The operating hours are from 11 AM to 11 PM every day.
Spicy6
Spicy6 is located on Ring Road, Mohammadpur. The restaurant is famous among the locals for its Thai, Chinese, Oriental, and South Asian cuisines. Spicy6 offers great indoor and outdoor arrangements with faux grass and overhead shades.
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BSA welcomes Falgun in style, bids farewell to the Pitha Ustab
Netizens in the capital observed a joyful Wednesday as Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) celebrated the festive occasion of Pahela Falgun with its "Bawshonto Utsab" through jovial arrangements.
Concurrently, the esteemed national cultural organization also bid farewell to its much-acclaimed ‘Jatiya Pitha Utshab 1430’ (National Rice Cake Festival) on Wednesday.
The festivities of the day began with a special dance recital titled ‘Bawshanto Nrittyo’ in the capital’s Ramna Park at 3:30 pm with 225 dance artists. A festive procession was then brought out towards the BSA premises after that, joined by an approximate number of 300 artists representing different cultural genres.
Minister of Housing and Public Works RAM Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury joined the ‘Bawshonto Utshab’ as the chief guest. Cultural Affairs Secretary Khalil Ahmed was the special guest at the festivities.
The cultural event on the open premises of the academy then featured enthralling musical performances, poetry recitations, dance recitals, and choreography of spring-themed Bengali fashion, presented by the country’s esteemed artists from 4:30 pm onwards.
After enthralling the audiences with the festive offerings, BSA organised the concluding and prize-giving ceremony of this year’s ‘Jatiya Pitha Utshab’ at the open premises of the academy from 8:30 pm.
Dhaka University celebrates tapestry of festivals Wednesday
Dhaka University campus experienced a vibrant and eventful day on Wednesday when students and others celebrated the Valentine's Day and other major events amid festivity and celebrations.
February 14 is known as "the day of love" in the English calendar while the day coincided with the beginning of the Bengali month of Falgun, the first day of the Spring season.
Additionally, Wednesday also coincided with Swaraswati Puja, a Hindu festival celebrated at the renowned Jagannath Hall of Dhaka University, intensifying the festive atmosphere.
The day commenced with the Pahela Fagun festival at the Bokultola of the Fine Arts Faculty, where the campus was adorned with shining rays of the rising sun. Simultaneously, Swaraswati Puja commenced at Jagannath Hall, featuring 72 idols from various departments, institutes, universities, and halls.
Dhaka University was enveloped in a kaleidoscope of traditions as people from diverse backgrounds, adorned in festive attire, flocked to the campus.
The Bakultola hosted day-long programmes organised by the Bosonto Utsab Udjapon Committee to welcome the Spring season. Concurrently, another cultural programme took place at the 'Bot tola' of the Arts Faculty, celebrating the arrival of Falgun.
Students in panjabis and sarees, were a common sight at Charukola Faculty, holding red roses as they embraced the festive spirit.
Wasif Khan, a visitor from Mohammadpur, shared his plans for the day, expressing his intention to enjoy the festivities with his loved one. His day included visits to Charukola, Jagannath Hall for the Puja, the book fair, and possibly Rabindra Sarobar.
Tanni Das, a visitor to the Puja from Mirpur, highlighted her family's annual tradition of paying homage to the goddess of knowledge, Saraswathi, at Jagannath Hall's Puja ground. Despite the convergence of four mainstream festivals, she emphasized their focus on Swaraswati Puja.
As the book fair opened at 3:00 pm and continued until 9:00 pm, a discussion honouring language movement veteran Gaziul Haque took place at the main stage of the fair at Bangla Academy Premises. The influx of people from Pohela Falgun and Swaraswati Puja contributed to the bustling atmosphere at the book fair, with book sellers reporting increased sales.
However, the festivities led to substantial crowds and traffic jams in the Dhaka University area, causing inconvenience for students. Arif Hasan, a DU student, expressed frustration, noting the challenges to the university's security and the well-being of its students amid the dense crowds.
DIU to host ‘Community Digital Storytelling Festival' on Feb 16-17
Chorusing the slogan "Real Stories by Real People," Daffodil International University (DIU)'s Department of Journalism, Media, and Communication is hosting the first-ever Community Digital Storytelling Festival (CDSTF) on February 16 and 17 at Daffodil Smart City.
Addressing the details of the festival’s maiden edition to the media, a press conference was organized at DIU on Tuesday, joined by CDSTF Coordinator Alifunnessa Alif, Submission Manager Sadman Islam, and PR Manager Muhammad Asif Ul Islam.
Professor Dr Liza Sharmin, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; Aftab Hossain, Head of the Department of Journalism, Media and Communication and Kabil Khan, Associate Professor and Advisor of the Festival were present at the press conference, along with teachers and students of the department.
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Keeping the theme “Environment and Sustainability” in mind, the participating students submitted their outstanding films in Open, Journalism, One Minute and DIU Best Community Story categories, respectively. The activities of this newly launched flagship event of DIU's Department of Journalism, Media, and Communication started at the beginning of 2023.
The organizers of the festival campaigned on various issues including the goals, objectives and methods of participation in the festival in different schools, colleges, and universities both home and abroad, physically and virtually; and also provided hands-on training on filmmaking through mobile phones at various levels of educational institutions.
In this continuation, the participants of the festival from nine countries of the world have submitted a total of 106 films. Out of these, 73 films were initially selected and handed over to the festival's jury board which selected 39 films for screening at the maiden CDSTF.
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Winners in various categories of the festival will get attractive prizes as well as the opportunity to have direct discussions and advice with media researchers and eminent personalities, the organizers said at the press conference.
Ayaz Khan, who pioneered mobile journalism in Pakistan, Mojo, was the chief judge at the festival and is also working as a judge for the Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival this year. Prof Dr Marta Miaskowsa, a Research and Teaching staff member at the Faculty of Design, Lodz University of Technology was also on the judging panel of this year’s CDSTF, alongside Nuruzzaman Khan of Lithuania's Artisokai Film Production, also an artist-writer-researcher-filmmaker; and Fahmim Ferdous, project manager and trainer of Deutsche Welle, DW Academy Asia and Europe and a journalist, presenter, and media personality in the country.
The strategic partner of CDSTF is the world's largest Bengali news portal, Prothom Alo.com. Apart from this, Bangladesh Times, Irfan Trades and LumiFusion are the partners for award distribution.
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CDSTF 2024 is also supported by MINA, which has joined as a global partner to spread this event to all corners of the world. Youth community partners include ICD, Initiative for Coastal Development and Swinburne University of Technology as institutional partners.
Site Vault has also partnered with this year’s CDSTF which will be streaming selected films, and the entire festival is fully supported by the Daffodil International University authority.
Collagen Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage
Who does not want to stay young and beautiful for ages? As the years pass, the inherent collagen production of skin wanes, leaving behind wrinkles, discomfort, and diminished tissue strength. In the pursuit of timeless beauty, collagen supplements emerge as the favoured solution for anti-ageing devotees. It offers a path to revive and fortify, countering signs of ageing for a radiant, youthful allure.
What is Collagen Supplements
Collagen is a tough protein that acts like the body's glue, holding skin, bones, and muscles together. It is essential for maintaining strength and structure. As we age, collagen levels can decrease, affecting skin elasticity and joint health.
Oral collagen supplements have surged in popularity due to their perceived enhanced absorption by the body. They are available in pills, powders, and certain foods. Sold as collagen peptides or hydrolysed collagen, these broken-down forms are more readily absorbed.
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Collagen supplements contain amino acids, which are like the building blocks of protein. They often have extra nutrients that are good for the skin and hair, such as vitamin C, biotin, or zinc. These supplements usually come from animal tissues, like cows, pigs, or fish, aiming to boost collagen levels, supporting skin elasticity and joint health. Vegan alternatives are made from bacteria or yeast.
Natural Sources of Collagen
Natural sources of collagen encompass a spectrum of nourishing options for those seeking to enhance their body's collagen levels. Bone broth, a nutrient-rich elixir made from simmering animal bones, stands out as a prominent source. Fish, particularly the skin and scales, serve as another valuable reservoir.
Lean meats, such as chicken, contribute to collagen intake, while collagen-rich vegetables like spinach offer a plant-based alternative. Collagen is also found in eggs, citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, bell peppers, and garlic. Including these foods in the diet provides a holistic approach to collagen consumption.
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Benefits of Collagen Supplements
Improved Skin Elasticity
Collagen, integral to the skin's structure, boosts skin elasticity when supplemented. This aids in diminishing wrinkles and fostering a youthful complexion. Embracing collagen supplementation can contribute to a visibly revitalised and resilient skin appearance.
Joint Health Support
Crucial for joint tissues, collagen supplementation can alleviate discomfort and enhance mobility. Incorporating collagen into your routine may contribute to a noticeable reduction in joint issues, promoting improved flexibility and joint health.
Strengthened Hair and Nails
Packed with essential amino acids, collagen supplements fortify hair and nails, enhancing strength and resilience. This holistic support contributes to less hair breakage and nail health, reflecting in their vitality and robust appearance.
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'Golper Provat': A unique rendezvous of readers, writers at D’s Bistro
Intending to celebrate this year's International Mother Language Day, D's Bistro, a unique cafe in the capital’s Uttara, in collaboration with JCI Dhaka Sparks, organized a Bangla book recitation event titled ‘Golper Provat’ with the hope of connecting readers and authors under one roof.
Supported by Cosmos Foundation, this is a month-long event to be held every Saturday morning and the inaugural session was arranged on February 10.
The inaugural session of this month-long weekly event featured three writers - mythology, history, and historical fiction author SM Niaz Mowla; poet Nizamul Huda - a teacher, traveller and avid thinker; and the writer of the first book about Artificial Intelligence in Bangla titled ‘ChatGPT and AI Millionaire’, published in this year Amar Ekushey Book Fair, Mehedi Hassan Rifat.
With the vibrant presence of enthusiastic readers and thinkers, including renowned actress and singer Shampa Reza, the last Saturday of this year’s winter was celebrated with engaging conversations on not only books but also many of society’s norms, beliefs, myths and more.