lifestyle
Cinema preserves time through narrating real-life stories: KM Khalid
State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid said that film is an important medium of art and culture, especially in today's world that is largely regulated by social media platforms.
“Film is a very timely medium of entertainment and universally admired as the most engaging and close medium for projecting life as realistically as possible through reflecting the joys-sorrows-laughter and tears, within a limited timeframe”.
The State Minister made his remarks while inaugurating the 3rd Bangladesh Short film and Documentary Festival 2021 on Friday, as the chief guest at the virtual inauguration ceremony.
Mentioning Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA)’s various activities in the medium of cinema, KM Khalid said, “BSA has been conducting activities with films since its inception in 1974. As part of its continuation in upholding our films through connecting the filmmakers and audiences, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy organized ‘Bangladesh Film Festival’ in 2015 and 2017, and 'Bangladesh Short Film and Documentary Festival' in 2016 and 2018, in 64 districts of the country simultaneously.”
Also read: Top 5 Most Followed Athletes Across Social Media Platforms
Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Badrul Arefin, noted filmmaker Amitabh Reza Chowdhury and prominent film scholar-researcher Anupam Hayat also joined the inauguration ceremony as special guests and shared their thoughts on this special festival.
Also read: The Cultural Hegemony of Social Media
BSA's Director of Theatre and Film department and prominent thespian Afsana Karim Mimi delivered the welcome speech at the inauguration ceremony, which was chaired by BSA Director General Liaquat Ali Lucky. The inauguration ceremony was hosted by media personality Nabanita Chowdhury.
How to sanitise fruits & veggies: Safety tips during the pandemic
Pandemic or not, rinsing fruits and vegetables with water before eating them has always been an important habit -- as it helps remove many harmful bacteria, including salmonella, from the surface of the farm produce.
Covid-19 has only reinforced the need for washing fruits and vegetables under a running tap before consuming them. Not adhering to the practice could turn out to be a recipe for disaster -- food poisoning.
Salmonella, for instance, causes salmonellosis that can lead to an upset stomach, fever and cramps in the belly. Children, pregnant women, and the aged are the most vulnerable. And if the infection gets into your blood, it can lead to serious complications.
How to sanitise the fresh farm produce at home
First step
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling eggs, raw meat, and seafood.
Then wash fruits and vegetables under a running tap and rub them properly. Otherwise, germs on their surface can get inside while peeling them. Don’t wash the farm produce with soap or detergents.
Also wash utensils, the cutting board, dishes and the kitchen top with hot water and liquid soap after preparing each dish and before embarking on the next one.
Make it a point not to wash raw meat and eggs just before cooking. Otherwise, germs on them can spread to other food items, utensils, and kitchen surfaces.
Read: How to identify adulterated milk at home
Second step
Wash raw meat, seafood, and eggs separately soon after bringing them home. You should wash them in the kitchen sink again but before disinfecting the utensils and the kitchen top.
You should keep the unused eggs in the original carton and inside the refrigerator.
Meanwhile, the cracked eggs should be discarded.
Final step
Using a food thermometer is the best way to ensure that foods are cooked to the right temperature.
Fix the temperature at 63°C for beef, mutton, and fish. Eggs are needed to cook until both the yolk and white become firm. Don’t put cooked food on a plate that has already been used once for keeping raw meat, seafood, or eggs.
Read: Kick-start your day with a healthy breakfast
How to sanitize your kitchen after cooking
Undoubtedly, the kitchen top is the most vulnerable area in the kitchen. It's used most of the time daily -- be it for preparing food or unpacking groceries. So, it is necessary to keep them clean all the time.
Pay attention to the leftovers
Bacteria generally tends to grow in tiny pieces of food lingering on your kitchen top. Wiping the spillover food by disinfecting your kitchen top will prevent the food residue and bacteria from building up over time accordingly.
Read: Intermittent Fasting: Health Benefits and Risks
Keep your sponge clean first
Your sponges and dishcloths harbor billions of bacteria. So you must disinfect them in a bleach solution so that you can reuse them.
Alternatively, you can wash your sponge and warm it in the microwave for 2.5 minutes. You can wash your dishcloths in the washing machine.
Keep your kitchen top dry
Salmonella spreads in a moist environment. So whatever the process you use to disinfect your kitchen top, make sure to completely dry them afterward. It can be as simple as wiping down the surface areas such as around the sink where the place is wet due to accumulating condensation.
To sum up, always disinfect the fruits and vegetables that you bring home.
Read:IKIGAI: The Japanese Secret to a Long Healthy life
Can you mix and match Covid-19 vaccines?
Can you mix and match two-dose COVID-19 vaccines?
It’s likely safe and effective, but researchers are still gathering data to be sure.
The authorized COVID-19 shots around the world are all designed to stimulate your immune system to produce virus-fighting antibodies, though the way they do so varies, noted Dr. Kate O’Brien, director of the World Health Organization’s vaccine unit.
“Based on the basic principles of how vaccines work, we do think that the mix-and-match regimens are going to work,” she said.
Also read: Why do some people get side effects after COVID-19 vaccines?
Scientists at Oxford University in the United Kingdom are testing combinations of the two-dose COVID-19 vaccines made by AstraZeneca, Moderna, Novavax and Pfizer-BioNTech. Smaller trials are also ongoing in Spain and Germany.
“We really just need to get the evidence in each of these (vaccine) combinations,” O’Brien said.
So far, limited data suggests an AstraZeneca shot followed by the Pfizer shot is safe and effective. The combination also appears to come with a slightly higher likelihood of temporary side effects like aches and chills.
That might be because mixing and matching different types of vaccines can often produce a stronger immune response, said Lawrence Young, a virologist at the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom.
Also read: How long does protection from COVID-19 vaccines last?
In some places, health officials already suggest mixing in select circumstances.
After the AstraZeneca vaccine was linked to extremely rare blood clots, many European countries including Germany, France and Spain recommended people who got it as a first dose get a Pfizer or Moderna shot as a second dose instead.
In Britain and Canada, officials say people should aim to get the same vaccine for their second dose if possible. If they got AstraZeneca as their first shot, they’re advised to get another vaccine only if they have a history of blood clots or other conditions that might put them at higher risk of clots.
Is There an Age Limit to Put On Muscle?
When one dares to put on muscles, the usual remarks have thrown his or her way usually goes like this; “Be careful about putting on muscle, when you’re old they will start to sag”. If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of this or have even dished out a comment along those lines as well, it’s time to pay no attention to it. Muscle building is a process that is specifically engineered by people to go beyond the normal limits of muscle growth. This is done by deliberately stretching and tearing muscle fibers so that they can recover bigger. When people become older, it commonly alludes that muscle-building will start to become an uphill battle. Is there truth to this and is there an actual limit to put on muscle?
What Is Considered “Too Old”?
When comments about becoming too old to put on muscle - many don’t exactly specify an age group, but it is commonly implied that people above the age of 40 tend to face a tougher time preserving muscles. While many consider this to be a natural progression through aging, factors like family responsibilities, career, and a decrease in energy or motivation are often overlooked.
The University of Oklahoma did a muscle-building test between adults between 35 to 50 and those who were between 18 to 22 to see which age group was likely to build more muscle under the exact same training regime. Surprisingly, the muscle growth (measured by weight and strength) was almost identical, which does a lot to debunk the theory of age sabotaging muscle growth.
Read: Kick-start your day with a healthy breakfast
On the contrary, surveys from Cleveland Clinic have shown that between 40 percent to 45 percent of males have a much lower testosterone count. This is a huge leap from the previous study - proving that the slightest alterations to the body’s testosterone levels can affect one’s performance drastically. It has also been stated that the ideal age to start bodybuilding seriously is between the ages of 20 to 30 years old, so where does the truth lie?
As for many cases out there, the truth is always somewhere in the middle. Yes, it is true that the body loses more testosterone when it enters its 30s, but not because you’ve officially crossed the milestone of actually hitting that age. As mentioned, usually testosterone starts to deplete once one goes through muscle loss and unhealthy weight gain all at once. Therefore, it has often been interpreted that getting into bodybuilding is impossible in your 40s, where in reality, it was because the body has not been training throughout the years.
Read: How Effective Are Machines At The Gym?
How Can An Older Person Build Muscle?
It’s actually not too different from the standard way of building muscles. If not genetic, classic “old person” symptoms such as joint pains, weakened muscles, and aches are all accredited to inactivity over an extended amount of time, rather than the fact one has hit a certain milestone.
Dieting
By far, the most important attribute to keep the pursuit of muscle building or toning alive; dieting literally makes and breaks the results of your training and how your body will progress in the foreseeable future. Knowing how to moderate your macros like sugar, protein, and carbohydrates will fuel your body for the other 22 to 23 hours in the day that you’re not working out.
Some foods that are rich in fats like Omega-3 also help maintain high levels of testosterone, especially when you choose to take a back seat from muscle building and are moving on to toning. Understanding your calorie intake will ensure that your muscles will grow instead of your belly.
Read: Effectiveness of Compound Exercises for Muscle Definition
Getting Your Metabolism Running
While it is true that the body’s metabolic rate starts to slowly dwindle when one approaches his or her 30s, that doesn’t mean that your body is completely not eligible to work out. In 2017 the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology indicated that a batch of caffeine can kick start metabolism for healthy adult males.
This would trigger ketogenesis and can change one’s metabolic rate overnight. Aside from this, regular consumption of fiber and a semi-regular cardio routine can do wonders to ensure that you will burn the maximum amount of fat as you take the steps to build muscle.
Training Smart
While your motivation to train may have dwindled in the past few years, committing a single year will grant results that are akin to the years in your youth if you do so properly. With joint pains and a slowed metabolism approaching as you age, being smart about the amount of weight used for a bulking session must be carefully reviewed by either you or a professional. Practicing safe techniques and ensuring that everybody part is worked to the best of their abilities is crucial. Half-baked forms and weights that are not challenging will only hamper your own ability to succeed.
Read: Best Health Clubs and Gyms in Dhaka in 2021
Knowing How To Rest
If you are above 30, it is far from being “too late” to build muscles and even go for competition, but this kind of eagerness can often result in overtraining. Overtraining isn’t as clear-cut as simply going to the gym every day. There are times when committing to an extra half an hour doing exercises that cover the same exact muscles as your previous exercise puts your body under an unnecessary strain.
Your muscles should be worked into exhaustion, and focusing on an already exhausted muscle group will not change how much mass is grown during your rest phase. Additionally, resting is the time when your body can take the nutrients your food has provided and use those as fuel to enable your body to recover faster. Progress comes from picking your battles, and sometimes, you’ve won by simply taking the day off after an intense workout.
Read Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
Kick-start your day with a healthy breakfast
Many people often make the mistake of skipping the most important meal of the day. While some do manage a quick bite to eat at the work desk later in the morning, many others skip breakfast completely. And some do avoid it to lose weight.
But as the name suggests, eating breakfast is a way to break our overnight fast. In fact, it's known as the most important meal of the day because of its magical powers to recharge the body. But skipping breakfast could have a serious impact on your health.
So, eat a healthy breakfast daily.
The Unhealthiest Foods to Avoid for Breakfast
Let's explore what not to eat for breakfast
Paratha & Puri
Never keep paratha or puri on your breakfast menu. There is a possibility of fat accumulation in the body as a result of regular eating of the same. Generally, clarified butter or oil is used to make these foods. Moreover, refined flour bought from the market contains a high glycemic index. Eating paratha or puri can cause metabolic disorder and increase the amount of sugar and insulin in the blood. As a result, the body weight could increase, and with it, the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Read Mango desserts: Some mouthwatering recipes for trying at home
Fruit Juice
Eating fruits directly is better than drinking fruit juice. This is because when you juice a fruit, some of the healthy fiber is lost in the process. Read-to-drink juices are actually harmful as they contain artificial flavours and are also low in nutrients, fiber, enzymes, minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins.
Junk Food
And if you gorge on chocolates, pancakes, burgers, donuts or sandwiches in the mornings, be ready to pile on weight. All these tasty foods contain high calories.
A donut contains six grams of fat and 250 grams of calories. On the other hand, the sugar syrup on the pancake is not good for you as it contains a lot of fat and fructose, both harmful to your heart health.
Women often give their children junk food for breakfast. Potato chips, fried foods, soft drinks, sweets, chocolates are all unhealthy and can do more harm than good.
Read Intermittent Fasting: Health Benefits and Risks
Noodles
You are probably fond of noodles because they can be prepared in five to 10 minutes. But noodles contain BHA and TBHQ, which are very harmful to your health. Eating noodles not only increases the risk of heart disease but also aids weight gain.
Tea-Coffee
Should you kickstart your day with a cup of tea or coffee? Well, always avoid tea and coffee on an empty stomach. These beverages stimulate the acids in the stomach, which can cause heartburn or nausea. At least, have a biscuit before sipping on a delicious cuppa.
Cold and Energy Drinks
Never drink cold or energy drinks as standalone beverages in the mornings. When you wake up in the morning, your body temperature stays a little low. So at this time, you need to eat in harmony with your body temperature. And cold drinks contain high levels of sugar.
Moreover, energy drinks are also high in sugar. They can cause long-term side effects such as headaches and migraines, nausea, vomiting, increased anxiety, and hormonal imbalance.
Read Health Benefits of Chamomile Tea
The Healthiest Foods to Eat for Breakfast
Now, let's check out what to eat for breakfast
Wheat Bread
It is better to eat wheat flour bread for breakfast. Glycogen made from bread melts faster than rice. As a result, your stomach will remain full and the nutritional value will also increase. Two tablespoons of wheat contain 15 percent Vitamin E and 10 percent folic acid. It also simplifies the digestion process.
Fried Eggs
Eating eggs in the morning is better than eating sugary foods. There is a special compound called tryptophan in fried eggs, which makes the brain feel better. Bananas and nuts also contain this compound. So if you have these foods for breakfast, you can expect a good day.
Read Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
Nuts
Having nuts for breakfast improves your digestion. It also controls the pH level of your digestive system.
Honey
Honey helps to refresh your mind and body. It also strengthens your digestive process and accelerates your brain function. The process of food digestion removes toxins from the body. It also gives you a feeling of satisfaction after a meal.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal raises a protective wall around the stomach. Internally secreted hydrochloric acid cannot do any damage to the stomach wall accordingly. It also lowers cholesterol levels due to its soluble fiber. It is better to eat oats with milk.
Read What is Protein Powder? Benefits of Taking Protein Supplements
Fruit or Vegetable Salad
Cucumbers, tomatoes, and carrots for breakfast, nothing could be more healthy. If possible, add boiled eggs or meat to your salad. It can protect you against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. You can also eat fruit salad. These types of salads also aid weight loss and keep your heart healthy.
Sour Yogurt
It is better to eat sour yogurt for breakfast. It helps in weight loss. Moreover, eating sour yogurt in the morning meets the body's need for protein. As a result, it reduces your hunger throughout the day.
Takeaways
Never skip your breakfast as it can throw off your body's rhythm of overnight fasting. Eating a healthy meal in the morning will no control your blood pressure levels, diabetes, and cholesterol. But eat healthy.
Read Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits and Risk of Regular Consumption
How Effective Are Machines At The Gym?
For a newcomer, the gym is a rather intimidating place that puts aesthetics above all else at times. Dumbbells and barbells are crowded with muscular men and women, which can be demoralising at first. Machines are often a safe haven for newcomers as there is no reason for others to be around your space if you have already occupied the machine. While that is well and good, machines also have a lot of benefits to novices that can set them up for success. But how does the machine fare against the more renowned dumbbell and barbell workouts and how effective are machines overall at the gym?
The Machine’s Purpose
Machines normally serve a singular purpose which is to work for a specific muscle group. There are pros and cons to this. Because the range of movement is so limited, newcomers are conditioned to use the correct range of motion, as there’s little to no room for errors in your technique. The cons are that when novices start getting the proper form down for free weight exercises, the machine CAN start feeling restrictive.
Read: TRX vs. Other Gym Equipments: A Detailed Comparison
Machines are predominantly meant for isolated exercises and tackle many muscle groups and exercises those free weights fall short of. Leg curls, leg press. Weighted crunches and many more exercises are used by the machine because it is impossible to find an optimised replacement in the free weight category. The military press, bench press, and curls are examples of exercises that can be done with free weights, but are still viable if you choose to continue using the machine.
Interestingly, because techniques aren’t your biggest concern when using the machine, it grants the opportunity to focus on building strength and is an easier way to track your weight progression without getting confused. Weight progression is a lot more minor per peg and it allows newer gymgoers a chance to take things slow. Unfortunately, this is a double-edged sword as many machines will start becoming incredibly light after a few good years of training.
Read: Running vs. Swimming vs. Cycling: Which Is Best for Burning Fat?
Even though machines offer both options of compound and isolated exercises, many have turned towards them for the latter as they progress up the fitness ladder. With deadlifts, squats and multi-grip bench press being options that machines cannot offer, it would make sense that barbells reign supreme in compound exercises. This is because the technique needed to master said compound exercises with the bar requires a lot of attention to smaller muscle groups on top of focusing on the primary, bigger, larger muscles.
In terms of isolation, dumbbells may pose quite a threat to machines as both cater around higher repetitions with lower weights - where both workout platforms excel. Exercises like front raises, side raises, flies and skull crushers are not available for machines, but it goes the other way too. So, which one is better for the purpose of isolation? Before answering that, we need to talk about cables.
Read Barbells vs. Dumbbells: Which is better for Workout, Strength, and Muscle Growth?
The Role Of Cables
Cables are a strange one! Although they technically fall under the category of “machines”, they are extremely adjustable in terms of height, handles, resistance, and of course, weights. The range of movement cables offered is impressive, given that they have a fixed pivot system that should not allow for much mobility.
Because of cables, options like front raises, side raises, lat pulldowns, tricep extensions are made available. Although cables are an impressive compromise between machines and dumbbells, it is important to note that technique begins to play a part when using them, but not to the same extent as dumbbells. Utilising the wrong technique can present risks of injuries like free weights would.
Read: Effectiveness of Compound Exercises for Muscle Definition
When compared to other types of static machines, cables offer a very similar role. Both pay close attention to isolation exercises and complement low weight and high repetitions. If you are thinking of body building, both cables and machines will be your best friend as strength training doesn't benefit nearly as much from machines and cables. Since cables offer more flexibility in body posture and a fluid range of motion, there is a higher chance to sustain injuries as compared to the more linear machines.
Are Machines Better?
The short answer is not necessarily. While machines are phenomenal in providing a safe range of motion without exposing you to too much risk, it usually is not regarded as a staple or the core to many body parts. Arms and shoulders require more isolated exercises due to how many smaller muscles are in that category, but shoulders, back, chest and legs will undoubtedly require free weights to succeed on a fundamental level.
After the compound exercises are done and your body has expelled most of its energy, isolation exercises are usually the ones to round up the workout. It is definitely possible to switch things around and engage isolated body parts exclusively, but it will take up much more of your time and will not be the best for muscle growth.
Read: Best Health Clubs and Gyms in Dhaka in 2021
Isolation exercises to consider on machines and cables include preacher curls, flies, tricep extensions, leg curls, and rows. Although all of these exercises are doable on dumbbells, the nature of machines will make it so that your range of motion has a better chance of being correct and that you can minimise safety risks. Exercises to avoid include bench press, shoulder press, and bend over rows.
While these exercises can work on machines, they are best suited for free weights as controlling your body properly as it executes the technique will work on far more muscle groups than one would notice. Overall, machines are great complementary exercises that excel in isolation routines, but should not ever be at the centre of your workouts if you are thinking of pumping iron for the long term.
Read Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
How Model Mosques chime with Mujib Centenary: At the heart of each community
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this week remotely inaugurated the first 50 ‘model mosques’ - as defined by the government to meet certain parameters that have been set in consultation with experts on Islamic art and architecture. The fifty were the first deliverables in a project to build some 560 such prayer-houses covering every District and Upazila throughout the country. Hasina opened these mosques virtually from Ganabhaban, as part of the ongoing programme for the Mujib Centennial. Work on the Tk 8,722 crore project started with the Bangladesh government deciding to finance the early parts. The mosques, following one of three templates as appropriate, are designed to act as the center of not only prayer but also all social activities in their community.
Background of the Model Mosque Project
As per the Awami League's election manifesto in 2014, the government took the initiative to build 560 model mosques and cultural centers across the country at a cost of Tk 8,722 crore as part of implementing the promise to build an improved mosque in each district and Upazila.
During the Prime Minister's visit to Saudi Arabia in 2016, King Salman pledged to provide most of the funding for the Model Mosque project. But as no funding has come so far, the Prime Minister decided it was better to go ahead and implement the project with the government's own funding.
It is thus the second-largest self-financed project for the GOB, after the Padma Multipurpose Bridge.
The project was approved by the Bangladesh Planning Committee, ECNEC on April 25, 2017. It is now being implemented by the government's Public Works Department in a joint venture with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Islamic Foundation. The work of another 100 model mosques will be completed by the end of this year. The entire project has been scheduled for completion in December 2023.
Read: Model mosques to inspire all to understand essence of Islam: Hasina
Inspired by mosque architecture
The mosques have been modeled on world-class mosques in the Middle East and the Arab peninsula. They will have multipurpose centers, including auditoriums and libraries alongside a huge place for prayer in the mosque complex.
The mosques are being built as four-storied buildings at the district level, three-storied at Upazila level, and again four-storied in coastal areas. There will be 69 mosques built in Cities and urban areas where the area of each floor is designed to cover 2,360 square meters.
In upazilas, the area of each floor would be 1,680 square meters for the 475 mosques at the Upazila level. In the coastal areas, there are plans to build 16 mosques, with a floor area of 2,050 square meters. Ramps will be set up to facilitate easy access to the prayer rooms for the sick and disabled people.
Read: Hasina inaugurates 50 spectacular model mosques
Expected facilities
Almost 1,200 Muslims will be able to perform prayers together in the district-level mosques. There will be arrangements for performing prayers of 900 people at a time in the mosques at the Upazila level and coastal areas. There is also an arrangement for women to offer separate prayers. In total, almost 494,200 men and 31,400 women will be able to offer prayers together in the 560 mosques. The ground floor will be empty to act as a shelter during natural disasters in the coastal areas.
Under the library facility, 34,000 readers can read Quran and Islamic books together every day. There will be opportunities for research on Islamic subjects for 6,600 people. Fifty-seven thousand devotees will always be able to recite Tasbih with Doa, Munajat.
At this stage, the details on the standard facilities on offer at each of the three classes under the Model Mosque project (City, Upazila, and Coast) can start to feel slightly benumbing with all the numbers getting thrown at you.
It's better to visit them to get a real sense of what they're all about. One issue is obviously the strand of Islam that will be practised through these mosques - if at all a strand would be adhered to as the preferred.
So it would be best to find one near you and go down to say your prayers there. That will always remain the best way to learn about a mosque. Below are the first fifty to be inaugurated.
Read: PM to inaugurate 50 model mosques on Thursday
Find your nearest
Among the 50 model mosques, 5 are at the District level and 45 are at the Upazila level. They are: Savar in Dhaka, Madhukhali in Faridpur, Pakundia and Kuliarchar in Kishoreganj, Shibalaya in Manikganj, Razbari Sadar, Shariatpur Sadar and Goshairhat, Shariakandi in Bogra, Sherpur and Kahalu, Shapahar and Porsha in Naogaon Sadar and Porsha in Rajshahi. Khanshama and Beral of Dinajpur, Patgram of Lalmonirhat, Debiganj and Upazila Sadar of Ponchogarh, Rangpur District Sadar, Mithapukur, Upazila Sadar, Peerganj, Badarganj, Horipur of Thakurgaon, Shubarnachor of Noakhali, Goforgaon and Tarakanda of Mymensingh, Tarakanda of Manda, Chittagong District Sadar, Islampur and Upazila Sadar, Nobinagar and Bijayanagar of Brahmanbaria, Bhola Sadar, South Shurma of Sylhet, Daudkandi of Comilla, Ponchhori of Khagrachhri, Kushtia Sadar, District Sadar of Khulna, Kochua of Chandpur, Razapur of Jhalokati and Chuadanga Sadar.
Potential Scope
The aim of the project is to spread Islamic values and Muslim brotherhood as well as the main message of Islam against terrorism and extremism. As the Model Mosque project has been undertaken for the purpose of institutionalizing public awareness activities on policymaking in the development process of the government. As a result, opportunities are being created for the Muslims to conduct prayers, religious education, training, and religious activities. Awareness activities will be conducted to prevent various social ills including drugs, terrorism, dowry, and violence against women. These mosques will also be used for the expansion of Islamic knowledge and culture through the creation of physical infrastructural facilities.
Besides, those employed in mosques will get a government salary. There are many mosques in Bangladesh that have a lot of income. But the mosque committee does not pay much to the Imam and Muazzins. Again, the financial condition of many mosques is bad. But now the situation can be better in terms of a government salary.
Read: Model mosques: A unique Mujib Borsho gift
Wrap-up
Generally, the mosques in Bangladesh are prayer-centric. But the main theme of mosques in Islam is that besides prayer, mosques will also become the heart of social activities. In the idea that model mosques are being built, they will also become the center of social activities. There will be many initiatives to help people accordingly.
Thunderstorm Lightning Struck Safety Tips: Stay Prepared
Every year more than 150 people die in Bangladesh due to lightning. The number of casualties has also increased this year. Several people were killed in lightning strikes in Sirajganj, Chittagong, Patuakhali, Manikganj, Feni, Madaripur, Noakhali, Munshiganj, and Shariatpur this month (June 2021). Lightning also harms the environment so it’s a comprehensive problem that needs a full-scale approach.
Reasons behind the recent increase in Lightning Struck in Bangladesh
The Save the Society and Thunderstorm Awareness Forum has blamed the abnormal increase in lightning on global warming and a decline in the number of tall trees.
Every degree increase in temperature increases lightning by 10 percent or more. Recently, the upper and lower parts of the dense black clouds are floating as two pools. As a result, the level of electricity flow between them is increasing and lightning is being created. The recent increase in the density of black clouds has resulted in an increase in the number of bolts of lightning in line with rainfall.
Also read: Lightning strikes kill four in Dhaka amid rain
Impacts of Lightning Struck during Thunderstorms
Impact on people
Lightning produces about 10,000 amperes of electricity which releases 50,000 Kelvin heat in milliseconds. That is why if lightning strikes a person directly, his/her body is charred before one sees it coming.
According to the US public health agency CDC, people attacked by lightning suffer from burns, shock, and trauma. In some people, weakness, confusion, skin damage, and even stroke can occur. Lightning also causes heart attacks.
Many people do survive a thunderstorm but none of them can lead a normal life. When lightning enters the brain, its heat and sparks burn the brain cells and render them useless. In the case of survivors, therefore, trauma, mental disorders, personality changes, etc. are observed.
Also read: 9 killed by lightning strikes in Feni, Chattogram, Manikganj, Magura
Ways to survive during Lightning Struck
1) April-June is the busiest period for thunderstorms. Lightning phases usually last for up to 45 minutes. It is advisable to stay at home at this time.
2) If one sees thick black clouds, refrain from going out of the house. Wear rubber shoes in case of emergency.
3) If in a paddy field or playground under the open sky, quickly sit with your head on your toes and your fingers on your ears.
4) As soon as possible to take shelter under the building or concrete tent. Tin sheds must be avoided.
5) If inside the car, keep the body as safe as possible from the metal part of the car. Take shelter under a concrete tent in a quick corner with the car.
6) Refrain from using all kinds of electrical appliances including mobiles, laptops, computers, TVs, refrigerators. If you get a hint of lightning, unplug them beforehand.
7) Refrain from using umbrellas with metal handles. In this case, you can use a plastic or wooden-handled umbrella.
8) If you are in the sea or river at this time, stop fishing and stay under the boat tent.
9) Do not touch the metal faucets, metal railings, pipes, etc. of the house.
10) If there are a few people together in a wide area, each move 50 to 100 feet away.
Read 6 killed by lightning strikes in Feni, Chattogram
Dangerous places for Lightning Struck
1) Open during thunderstorms such as paddy fields, fields, rivers, and high places are the most dangerous. There is a high probability of lightning in a passenger tent or a large tree in a wide-open space.
2) High trees or electricity poles are more likely to be struck by lightning, so it is not safe to be near trees or poles at this time.
3) If at home, don’t stand near the window.
4) If you are on the road, you must avoid frozen water and electricity.
What to do if someone is injured by lightning
Do not touch the injured person immediately. Otherwise, you too may get shocked. Try to bring back breathing with CPR as first aid. Massage the hands and feet continuously. Take him to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
Read Lightning strikes to kill 3 in Chapainawabganj
The best way to stay safe from Lightning Struck
Since lightning is a sudden natural disaster, there is no alternative but to be prepared for it in advance.
1) Identify the more disaster-prone areas and work to increase public awareness there beforehand. As the death rate is high in remote areas, warn farmers, fishermen, and those who work in the open by providing accurate knowledge about lightning.
2) The best way is to plant enough trees that grow taller quickly. In this case, you can plant more palm and coconut trees. Thus, as a result of afforestation, it will be possible to restore the balance in the weather.
3) Make sure to install lightning rods in every building in the city.
4) It is necessary to build high towers privately as well as in Government. The lightning will flow over the tower. The locality will survive.
Read Lightning strike kills father, son in Sylhet
Steps to take after Lightning Struck
Since the central part of the country is more affected by lightning, the amount of damage to the people of that region is more. All sections of the government and the private sector should come forward to help them. Make sure that the injured receive proper treatment and that the families of the victims receive money and work to support themselves.
Over to you
In order to avoid lightning, one should seek help from God, since in this situation man has nothing to do immediately. Humans are also to blame for this disaster as activities like global warming and declining vegetation are caused by human beings' actions. But improving this situation is not impossible. Everyone needs to work together.
Read Lightning strike kills farmer in Sunamganj
18 artists, 2 organisations to receive Shilpakala Padak 2019, 2020
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy announced the names of 20 recipients for its prestigious Shilpakala Padak 2019 and 2020 Saturday.
Eighteen cultural luminaries and two cultural organisations will receive the award, said the academy.
The award has been conferred to creative personalities for their continuous contributions to arts, culture, entertainment and literature since 2013.
However, the award was not conferred in 2019 and the ceremony could not take place in 2020 due to the ongoing global pandemic.
Also read: Names of Shilpakala Padak 2018 recipients announced
The recipients of the 2019 award are Mohammad Moniruzzaman (instrumental – flute), Lubna Marium (dance), Hasina Momtaz (vocal), Abdul Mannan (fine arts), Masud Ali Khan (dramatics), M A Taher (photography), Shamvu Acharaya (folklore), Hasan Arif (recitation), Anupam Hayat (film) and cultural institution Chhayanaut (creative cultural unit).
For 2020, the selected cultural personalities are Shamsur Rahman (instrumental – shehnai), Shibli Mohammad (dance), Mahmudur Rahman Benu (vocal), Shahid Kabir (fine arts), Malay Bhowmick (dramatics), Shafiqul Islam Swapan (photography), Shah Alam Sarkar (folklore), Dahlia Ahmed (recitation), Shameem Akhtar (film) and Dinajpur Nattya Samity (creative cultural unit).
The awards will be handed over to the recipients at a ceremony later at the academy in the capital's Segunbagicha.
Each recipient will get a gold medal, a cheque of Tk1 lakh, and a certificate.
Coffeemaker buying guide with prices in Bangladesh
Grabbing a cup of coffee is a favorite morning routine for many. They just can’t get off to a perfect start without a mug full of coffee. Of course, coffee shops are everywhere, but there is something special about having the first cup at home. But making coffee manually may not mix all the ingredients properly. Hence a coffeemaker is necessary to blend all the ingredients and have the best coffee at home. We would like to focus on the price range of coffeemakers in Bangladesh along with a buyer guide here in this article.
What to Consider Before Buying a Coffeemaker in Bangladesh?
If you are inexperienced with coffee machines, it will be difficult to buy the best coffeemaker. But, having some knowledge of machines before buying a coffeemaker would make your task easier. You may check the following things before buying a coffeemaker.
Types
Do you want to have a hands-on coffee-making experience in the morning or do you want coffee waiting for you when you wake up? Based on this question you may choose between an automatic and manual coffeemaker. However, non-automated electronic coffee machines may require a little more attention, but can still be operated with the push of a few buttons.
Size
Although the size of a coffee machine will not affect your cup supporter, if the machine does not fit in the space specified for it, it can cause a bunch of headaches. If you need to open the top of the machine to add water, take the size into account to measure accurately. Consider the sizes of your mugs for single-serving machines. Many large mugs do not fit under the broiler.
Read Blender, Juicer Price in Bangladesh with Buying Guide
Coffee Types
Coffeemakers and espresso machines are usually separate machines, both types of coffee blending hybrid machines are also available. Placing two machines will take up a lot of space, but if you like both coffee and espresso, and want to make each one perfectly, having both machines might be satisfying. But you can buy hybrid machines, too. Hybrid machines will occupy less space and cost less than buying two separate machines, but these may not be the best choice if you look for the highest quality of both coffee and espresso.
Timing
If your family drinks coffee all day, you may want to opt for a coffeemaker that has a thermal carafe that will keep the coffee pipes warm during the day. For those who only drink coffee in the morning, there should be plenty of glass plates broth with warm plates.
Read Top Bangladeshi Milk and Dairy Companies, Brands
Features, and Price Range of Some Popular Coffeemakers in Bangladesh
There are many things to consider when buying a coffeemaker but most decisions have to deal with priorities, costs, and benefits.
Kintech Coffeemaker
Kintech coffeemaker has a beautiful design that increases the kitchen’s beauty. It is robust and extremely easy to use. It has a stunning black body which also comes with a ceramic cup holder. Further, it can hold 0.125 liters and can make one cup of coffee at a time. It has a parament filter that ease your efforts and help save valuable time. More importantly, Kintech coffeemaker is very affordable and priced at Tk. 1,400.
Coffeemaker OCM6616S S/S 1.5L
This 1.4-litre coffeemaker has a glass aroma jug that can support ground coffee only. It comes with innovative water level indicators along with the light guide. Besides, you can stop the drip whenever you want while brewing. The detachable filter holder also offers dishwasher-proof parts. With all those innovative features, you can buy it for Tk. 2,675.
Read Top Bottled Drinking Water Brands, Companies in Bangladesh
Miyako Coffeemaker cm 325
Although Miyako Coffeemaker cm 325 is not a high-end machine, it offers some premium features. It comes with overheat protection, thermofuse, and a thermostat. The nonstick warming plate can keep the coffee warm automatically. It has a permanent filter with a handle. The automatic switch features can turn off the machine when you are not using it. It can get you 6-8 cups of coffee at a time and you can buy it for Tk. 2,999.
Automatic Professional Cappuccino Latte Espresso Coffeemaker
It is a non-branded coffeemaker, but it is handy as you can use it for multipurpose. It is made with plastic material but has a glass pot. The power usage is 550W with 220V/50Hz. The capacity is 600ML and has an automatic insulation feature that can keep the temperature from 60 degrees to 75 degrees Celsius. Buy it for Tk. 3519.
Philips HD7431 - Daily Collection Coffeemaker
Philips HD7431 can brew your favorite coffee in just 10 minutes and make 0.92 litres at a time. Besides, the drip stop feature can help you control your brewing. It is easy to maintain and clean as HD7431 comes with dishwasher-safe parts. It is priced between Tk. 3810 to Tk. 4500.
Read Top Biscuit and Bakery Companies, Brands in Bangladesh
DSP Coffeemaker KA3024
It is an espresso coffeemaker that comes in black colour with 800W. It contains glassware to hold the hot coffee and close the machine automatically. Besides, you will also have a power button to flash and scale to see the amount of water. The DSP model KA3024 is very easy to use and can make 10-12 cups. However, the price depends on the store and the availability, but the price will be between Tk. 4,989 to Tk. 6500.
Delonghi EC.685.W Coffee Machine – White
This high-quality Delonghi coffeemaker comes with 15 bar professional pressure, cup warmer, three illuminated buttons, flow stop function, removable drip with anti-drip function. You can use this machine at home or even at a store. The price for Delonghi EC.685.W is Tk. 32,000.
Delonghi ECAM.22.110.B Coffee Machine
If you are looking for a coffeemaker for business purposes or want to have numerous features at your home coffeemaker, you can try ECAM.22.110.B coffee machine. Although it is pricey at Tk. 75,000, you will get many features. For instance, 13 adjustable settings, pre-brewing cycle, container capacity indicator, rapid cappuccino, energy-saving mode, and more.
Read Top FMCG Companies in Bangladesh: At a Glance