United News of Bangladesh

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Laufey is branching out into children’s literature with her debut picture book “Mei Mei The Bunny,” inspired by her beloved mascot-alias. Publisher Penguin Workshop announced Tuesday that the book, illustrated by Lauren O’Hara, will be released on April 21. The story follows Mei Mei, a determined young bunny aspiring to become a professional musician despite early setbacks. Merriam-Webster adds 5,000 new words in fully revised ‘Collegiate’ dictionary “I’m so excited to now share Mei Mei The Bunny in storybook form!” Laufey said. “Mei Mei has been part of my life for years, and opening up her world has been a beautiful journey. I hope readers of all ages find something inspiring in her story.” Born Laufey Lín Bing Jónsdóttir in Iceland, the 26-year-old artist is known for her signature blend of pop, classical, and jazz influences. Her 2023 album “Bewitched” earned her a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, and she followed up with “A Matter of Time” earlier this year. Source: AP 

For the first time, a nationwide celebration will be held on the occasion of the 135th death anniversary of the legendary mystic poet and philosopher Lalon Shah, featuring Lalon festivals and fairs across the country. The three-day event in Kushtia, organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in collaboration with the Kushtia district administration, will run from October 17 to 19, while Dhaka will host its festivities on October 18. Simultaneously, Lalon fairs and festivals will take place across all 64 districts on October 17. The cultural program in Kushtia will feature an in-depth exploration of Lalon’s philosophy, musical performances, and a vibrant Lalon fair. The inauguration ceremony will be held at Lalon Dham in Cheuriya, Kumarhati Upazila, Kushtia, on October 17 at 4 pm. Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki will attend as the chief guest, while Md Mofidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry, will deliver the welcome address. Internationally renowned writer and researcher Professor Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak will participate as the keynote speaker in the Lalon lecture session. The session will also feature prominent poet, writer, and thinker Farhad Mazhar, along with Professor A.A. Mamun from the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at Rajshahi University. The program will be chaired by Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arifin, Deputy Commissioner of Kushtia. Following the inauguration, the air at Lalon Dham will resonate with Lalon songs and mystical tunes. Baul and Fakir performers from across the country, including TunTun Baul, Sunil Karmakar, Rawshan Fakir, and Latif Shah, will take the stage, and the festival grounds will continue to be filled with performances by visiting Baul-Fakirs on October 18 and 19. In Dhaka, Lalon festivals and fairs will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan on October 18. Performers at the event will include Imon Chowdhury and the Bengal Symphony, Aleya Begum, Lalon Band, Nirab & Bauls, Mujib Pardeshi, Pothik Nobi, Suchona Shely, Baula Band, Arup Rahee, Samageet, and several other musical groups. Alongside Kushtia and Dhaka, the nationwide celebration on October 17 will mark the first-ever simultaneous observance of Lalon festivals and fairs in all 64 districts, bringing together devotees, artists, and cultural enthusiasts to honor the legacy of the spiritual luminary.

France’s Nobel economics laureate Philippe Aghion has credited his creative upbringing for shaping his groundbreaking ideas on innovation, growth and economic freedom. Speaking from his apartment in Paris’ Latin Quarter after being awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences on Monday, Aghion reflected on his family’s influence — particularly his mother, Gaby Aghion, founder of the renowned fashion house Chloé. “I grew up with innovators. My mother invented luxury ready-to-wear,” said the 69-year-old economics professor, who shared this year’s prize with Joel Mokyr of Northwestern University and Peter Howitt of Brown University for research redefining how technological progress fuels prosperity. Aghion paid tribute to his mother’s pioneering spirit, noting that her vision transformed women’s fashion by introducing ready-to-wear luxury as a freer, more feminine alternative to traditional haute couture. “Before, there was only haute couture — luxury ready-to-wear didn’t exist,” he explained. “Through Chloé, she imagined how women could be free — they shouldn’t have to change outfits four times a day. She envisioned liberated, emancipated women.” In his Paris home, a table stacked with books on art and liberty still reflects the world of ideas that continues to inspire his work. Aghion fondly recalled growing up surrounded by artists and designers, including the late Karl Lagerfeld, who was closely associated with Chloé. “Karl used to help me with my German homework,” he said with a smile. Source: AP

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has become one of the most sought-after destinations for European families, retirees, and investors looking to buy property overseas. With its scenic beaches, rich culture, pleasant year-round weather, and welcoming Thai hospitality, the island offers an appealing escape from Europe’s cold winters, economic challenges, and urban stress. Improved connectivity has made Phuket even more accessible for European travelers, with expanded direct flights from London, Frankfurt, Paris, Zurich, Vienna, and other major cities, along with convenient transit options through the Middle East, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The island’s affordability, tranquil lifestyle, and safety have also boosted its reputation as a prime spot for long-term stays. Compared to popular European coastal destinations such as Spain’s Costa del Sol or Italy’s Amalfi Coast, property prices in Phuket remain considerably lower. Buyers can choose from a wide range of condominiums, from affordable units to premium branded residences offering strong investment value. Phuket’s appeal goes beyond real estate. The island offers a vibrant lifestyle with world-class golf courses, marinas, shopping centers, diverse dining options, and numerous outdoor activities. Reliable internet connectivity, international schools, and advanced healthcare facilities make it an attractive place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. At the forefront of Phuket’s property boom is the Banyan Group, best known for its luxury Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts. Recognized as Asia’s leading developer of branded residences and ranked fifth globally, the group emphasizes sustainability, comfort, and wellness. European buyers, who traditionally represent about one-third of its customers, value Banyan’s reputation and high-quality after-sales service. The company recently won 15 top honors at the International Property Awards — the highest number achieved by any Asian developer. How to shop secondhand sustainably and stay stylish A major highlight of the island’s development is Laguna Phuket, a 1,000-acre integrated resort by the Banyan Group situated along a three-kilometer stretch of Bang Tao Beach. This lakeside and woodland community includes seven luxury hotels, an award-winning golf course, and more than 3,000 branded condominiums, all linked by complimentary shuttle buses and boats. Laguna Phuket now houses residents from over 50 nationalities, supported by comprehensive infrastructure that includes a kindergarten, wellness centers, diverse leisure facilities, and the new Rava Beach Club — the largest on the island. “Laguna Phuket has evolved into a thriving residential community. It offers a safe, world-class environment where families, retirees, and professionals can flourish,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. Source: AP

Independent theaters are considered essential for a city’s cultural memory, offering audiences films with a unique appeal, according to visitors. “The film selection is fantastic. I imagine the curators are very thoughtful people who want audiences to see the kind of movies they themselves would love to watch,” one moviegoer said.

Deep in a beech and oak forest near Potsdam, renowned mushroom expert Wolfgang Bivour emptied a basket of freshly picked fungi onto the autumn leaves — a mix of porcini, bay boletes, and honey mushrooms, along with a few deadly green death caps. Bivour, one of Germany’s most celebrated mushroom connoisseurs, stood surrounded by 20 eager participants — university students, retirees, and even a young family from China — explaining each species’ traits, from their flavors to their dangers. Across Germany, mushroom hunting is experiencing a renaissance, as more people venture into forests to reconnect with nature. The trend, experts say, has been fueled by pandemic-era lockdowns that sent people outdoors, a growing interest in vegan diets, and a surge in awareness about the medicinal uses of fungi. While rural Germans have long kept the tradition alive, urban residents are now rediscovering its appeal. After World War II, mushroom foraging was a necessity for many Germans struggling with food shortages. But the practice waned during the economic boom of the 1950s. Now, decades later, social media has helped bring it back — with images of colorful mushrooms going viral and transforming an old pastime into a fashionable hobby. Bivour, 75, a retired meteorologist who has led mushroom tours in the Potsdam region for more than 50 years, said his sessions are “not primarily about filling baskets” but about “teaching people the role mushrooms play in ecosystems and biodiversity.” Hospitals sometimes call on him to identify mushrooms in poisoning cases. During his tours, he identifies species by their German and Latin names, discusses their medicinal properties, explains how to cook them, and invites participants to smell or taste safe varieties. According to Karin Flegel, managing director of Urania — the local institution organizing Bivour’s tours — demand for his workshops has surged. “His classes fill up instantly. We’ve noticed a huge increase in interest,” she said. Bivour now shares his expertise through books, social media, and his popular Pilz-Podcast — “pilz” meaning mushroom in German. Still, many newcomers remain cautious. Poisonous mushrooms such as the green death cap — easily mistaken for the common store-bought button mushroom — cause several deaths each year, often among newcomers and immigrants unfamiliar with local species. Tim Köster, a 25-year-old student from Berlin, joined Bivour’s tour to learn the difference. “I’ve never foraged before,” he admitted. “I’d like to find my own porcini one day, but I’m not confident yet.” He plans to take any future finds to an expert for identification — a service often offered at local markets and community centers during the autumn mushroom season. For Margit Reimann, 42, who joined the tour with her mother, the experience was eye-opening. “I didn’t realize how many edible varieties there are,” she said. Still, she plans to stick to familiar types like porcini, slippery jacks, and bay boletes. “I think many mushrooms could be a real culinary treat,” she added, “but I still don’t fully trust myself.” Source: AP

Losing a beloved pet is often the first time a child experiences death — an event that can profoundly shape how they understand loss and cope with grief later in life, experts say. According to psychologists and pet bereavement specialists, parents and guardians play a vital role in helping children accept the painful permanence of death and guiding them through a healthy grieving process. “People are often uncomfortable talking about death and grief, but it’s the one certainty in life,” said Deirdra Flavin, CEO of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief. “We need to be open to those conversations.” Children process loss differently A child’s age and personal experiences greatly influence how they perceive death. While some may express sadness or anger openly, others may struggle to process their emotions. Psychologists note that younger children, who think more literally, often find it difficult to grasp the finality of death, while older children may need more emotional support. “Even children as young as four might know about death through stories but not understand it’s forever,” said Colleen Rolland, president of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement. Parents like Elizabeth Perez, who lost the family dog in a road accident, say each child reacts differently. “Everybody was feeling it differently and at different times. We didn’t feel prepared,” Perez said, describing how one of her daughters suffered nightmares for months after witnessing the accident. Be honest and avoid euphemisms Experts emphasize using clear, age-appropriate language instead of euphemisms like “went to sleep” or “got lost,” which can cause confusion or fear. “That kind of language can alarm children,” said Flavin. “If you tell them the pet ‘went to sleep,’ they might fear going to bed themselves.” When Leah Motz’s two-year-old daughter asked about their elderly dog’s death, Motz explained simply that “his body was broken and couldn’t fix itself” and that they were “helping him die.” Acknowledge emotions and provide support Psychologists stress that pet loss is a real and valid form of grief, often underestimated by adults. “Children’s grief tends to be trivialized,” Rolland said. Behavioral changes such as tantrums, sadness, withdrawal, or loss of interest in usual activities are normal responses, said clinical psychologist Raquel Halfond. However, if those emotions persist and interfere with daily life, parents may need professional support for their child. Grieving together helps healing Children often model how adults respond to grief. Experts encourage parents not to hide their emotions, as showing sadness teaches empathy and emotional openness. “It’s okay for children to see you feeling sad,” said Halfond. “If they don’t, it can be confusing.” Parent Meaghan Marr, who lost two dogs while her children were young, said the experience helped her kids understand that sadness is a natural part of love and loss. “It hurt to lose them, but they made our lives so much better while they were here,” she said. Finding closure through remembrance Experts suggest helping children heal by creating rituals or memories — such as holding a small funeral, drawing pictures, donating to animal shelters, or recalling happy moments. These gestures, psychologists say, help children find meaning in their loss while keeping their pets’ memories alive — a gentle introduction to the universal reality of grief and healing. Source: AP

The death of a family pet is often a child’s first encounter with loss — a painful but valuable opportunity for parents to teach about death and healthy grieving, according to psychologists and grief counselors. Experts say the way caregivers handle such loss can shape how children understand and cope with grief later in life. “People are so adverse to talking about death, but it’s something we all face,” said Deirdra Flavin, CEO of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief. Children process loss differently depending on their age and personality. Some experience deep sadness or fear, while others may struggle to express emotions. Using clear and honest language — avoiding euphemisms like “went to sleep” — helps prevent confusion, especially among younger kids. Blazy's chanel debut brings Showmanship back under a sky of planets Counselors emphasize that it’s normal for children to feel intense emotions and that adults should acknowledge their own grief openly. “It’s OK for kids to see parents feeling sad,” said psychologist Raquel Halfond. “It helps them understand those feelings are natural.” Experts recommend creating closure through small rituals, such as holding a pet funeral, drawing pictures, or remembering happy moments. These acts help children accept the finality of death and find comfort in lasting memories. Source: AP 

What was meant to be a simple cosmetic fix turned into a traumatic ordeal for Chennai-based makeup artist V Jayanthi, who lost both her earlobes after undergoing a so-called ‘herbal procedure’ at a local beauty parlour. The ordeal In March 2023, Jayanthi visited Abbe Herbal Beauty Parlour in Arumbakkam, run by Akilandeshwari, seeking a natural remedy to reduce the size of her stretched ear piercings. The treatment cost Rs 2,000 but resulted in far greater physical and emotional suffering. Shortly after applying the herbal paste, Jayanthi experienced a severe burning sensation. When she raised concerns, the staff reassured her that the reaction was normal and continued applying the mixture, wrapping her earlobes in plaster. Within days, the wounds emitted a foul odor, and weeks later, her earlobes were hanging by thin layers of tissue. Impact on life For Jayanthi, whose work revolves around aesthetics, the consequences extended beyond physical injury. She lost confidence in her professional life, struggled to face clients, and even her own children were unsettled by her altered appearance. Her social life and freedom to go out were severely affected. The dangerous agent Medical examination revealed a shocking truth. The ‘herbal mix’ contained trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a corrosive chemical commonly used in controlled medical-grade skin treatments. Improper or high-concentration use of TCA can cause severe burns, scarring, and tissue destruction — exactly what happened in Jayanthi’s case. By August 2023, surgeons at Apollo Hospitals, Vanagaram, had to remove both earlobes to prevent infection. Although plastic surgery was suggested, the parlour refused to cover the expenses, forcing Jayanthi to seek legal recourse. Legal outcome After reviewing medical reports, witness statements, and a police chargesheet filed under Section 338 of the IPC (causing grievous hurt), the consumer commission ruled in Jayanthi’s favor. The commission noted that the parlour acted without authority and employed unsafe, unscientific methods. It ordered the parlour to pay Rs 5 lakh in compensation within 60 days. A cautionary tale Jayanthi’s case highlights the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures marketed as ‘herbal’ or ‘natural’ solutions. Experts warn that many such treatments contain chemical agents in unsafe concentrations. Any procedure promising structural changes — including reduction of ear piercings, moles, or scars — should only be performed by licensed dermatologists or certified cosmetic surgeons. This incident serves as a stark warning to consumers to verify credentials and safety standards before undergoing cosmetic treatments. Source: Agency

Norwegian universities have quietly built a global reputation for academic depth and research excellence that extends even to foreign students. What draws non-EU and non-EEA students to Norway is the rare affordability of public and state universities that few other nations offer. Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Norwegian, encouraging immersion in the local culture. However, the real gateway for incoming students lies in the country’s extensive scope of English-taught postgraduate degrees, particularly at the master’s level. Let’s take a closer look at the 10 comparatively low-cost Norwegian universities for Bangladeshi and other non-EU international students in 2026. 10 Affordable Norwegian Universities for Bangladeshi & Non-EU Students in 2026 . University of Bergen In the heart of Norway’s coastal city life stands the University of Bergen – an institution whose campuses stretch across two main districts, Arstadvollen and Nygardshoyden. Tuition fees are set between NOK 190,000 and 387,745, which translates to BDT 23,30,270 and 47,55,529 (NOK 1 = BDT 12.21), subject to the program. The application portal for bachelor’s and master’s degrees opens from November 1 to December 1, 2025. PhD deadlines vary across disciplines and are set to roll out over the coming months. University Web Portal: https://www.uib.no/en Read more: International Air Flights with Connecting Flights: Beginner’s Guide for Transfer-transit Passengers University of Oslo At the centre of Norway’s academic legacy lies the University of Oslo, the country’s oldest and largest institution of higher learning. Annual tuition ranges from NOK 136,000 to 295,000 (BDT 16,67,983 - 36,18,050), depending on the level of study. For bachelor’s programmes, applications close on April 15, 2026, while master’s applicants may submit their forms between October 15, 2025, and December 1, 2025. PhD candidates are called for registration based on the vacant positions, which are frequently announced through the academic portal. University Website: https://www.uio.no/english/ UiT The Arctic University of Norway A public research institution located in Tromsø, UiT The Arctic University of Norway is widely recognised as the world’s northernmost university. Read more: How to Use ChatGPT and Other AI Tools to Improve Your IELTS Writing and Speaking Preparation The application portal for international degree students beginning in autumn 2026 will open on October 15, 2025, with submissions due by November 15, 2025. Tuition fees range widely – from NOK 48,200 to 373,500 (BDT 5,91,152 - 45,80,820) per year – for bachelor’s and master’s programmes alike. Meanwhile, PhD opportunities remain available throughout the year, with deadlines based on the field of research. University Digital Platform: https://en.uit.no/ Western Norway University of Applied Sciences Shaped by the merger of several former colleges, the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences sits amid the scenic surroundings of Bergen. The public institute is spread across five campuses: Bergen, Forde, Haugesund, Sogndal, and Stord. Read more: Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students Beyond its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, the institution also offers pathways to doctoral research. All in all, the tuition costs around NOK 130,000 and 500,000 (BDT 15,94,395 - 61,32,289). The application period runs from October 1 to December 1, 2025, with December 1 marking the final deadline for all study programmes. University Site: https://www.hvl.no/en/ University of South-Eastern Norway Anchored in Notodden, the University of South-Eastern Norway extends its presence through campuses in Bo in Telemark, Porsgrunn, Rauland, Drammen, Honefoss, Kongsberg, and Horten. The state university offers a broad selection of study options, ranging from short professional courses to full-length bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programmes. Read more: How Bangladeshi Students Can Attest Certificates Online Before Going Overseas The admission phase runs from October 1 and closes on December 1, 2025. Tuition fees fall within NOK 140,000 to 260,000 (BDT 17,17,041 - 31,88,790), depending on the program. University Web Portal: https://www.usn.no/english/ Oslo Metropolitan University Situated across Oslo and Kjeller, Oslo Metropolitan University operates as a state-run institution that blends research and applied learning. It opens its application window on January 1, 2026, running through mid-April for most programmes. Read more: How To Prepare For Higher Studies Abroad After HSC Annual tuition charges from NOK 190,000 to 418,000 (BDT 23,30,270 - 51,26,594). For those pursuing doctoral studies, applications remain open every month with different deadlines for multiple disciplines. University Website: https://www.oslomet.no/en/ Ostfold University College In the southeastern county of Ostfold, Ostfold University College maintains campuses in both Fredrikstad and Halden, fostering a close-knit yet vibrant academic community. Read more: Higher Studies in Italy: Application Process, Costs, Student Visa, Scholarships, and Benefits The public university college offers an array of programmes at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, with tuition expenses between NOK 141,000 and 538,000 (BDT 17,29,305 - 65,98,343). The enrolment window for the coming intake opens from February 1 to March 1, 2026. PhD positions are announced periodically and listed alongside other institutional vacancies on the institute’s official portal. University Portal: https://www.hiof.no Norwegian University of Science and Technology Situated in Trondheim, with campuses in Gjovik and Alesund, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology stands as one of Norway’s most research-intensive institutions.  Read more: Studying for Bachelor’s in Romania: Application Process, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students Tuition expenses extend from NOK 170,500 to 510,600 (BDT 20,91,110 - 62,62,293) per academic year, applicable to both bachelor’s and master’s students. The incoming students outside the EU/EEA can apply from November 1 to December 1, 2025. PhD programme deadlines vary according to individual research vacancies, details of which are available on the university's official website. University Online Platform: https://www.ntnu.edu/ University of Inland Norway Nestled across the Innlandet county, the University of Inland Norway operates multiple campuses, including Blaestad, Elverum, Evenstad, Hamar, Lillehammer, Rena, Oslo, Tynset, and Kongsvinger. Read more: Staying Safe When Studying Abroad: Essential Considerations Annual tuition costs range from NOK 65,500 to 531,000 (BDT 8,03,330 - 65,12,491), covering programmes at all academic levels. The application window opens on November 1, 2025, with a final deadline of January 15, 2026. Doctoral programme applications are discipline-specific and follow separate timelines throughout the year. University Portal: https://www.inn.no/english/ Volda University College Set in the quiet town of Volda in More og Romsdal county, Volda University College has earned a reputation for its close academic community. Read more: Top 10 International Scholarships for Women to Study Abroad Annual education fees vary between NOK 84,000 and 156,000 (BDT 10,30,224 - 19,13,274), applicable to bachelor’s, master’s, and other modes of study. The application period begins on October 15, 2025, and closes on January 15, 2026. University Website: https://www.hivolda.no/en Final Words The cheapest Norwegian universities for Bangladeshi and other non-EU international students in 2026 represent Norway's liberal approach to education. Among them, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, University of Inland Norway, and Volda University College emerge as the most budget-friendly choices. Meanwhile, Oslo Metropolitan University, Ostfold University College, and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology belong to the higher-cost bracket. Falling somewhere in between are the University of Bergen, University of Oslo, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, and University of South-Eastern Norway. Together, these institutions reflect an opportunity that continues to attract ambitious non-EU/EEA students seeking quality higher education in a globally respected system. Read more: Study in Ireland: Application process, cost for international students