lifestyle
10 Dengue Myths Debunked: Here are the Facts
Dengue, often referred to as break-bone fever, poses a considerable risk. The world has witnessed its spread as an epidemic, affecting millions globally. Amid this global health concern, some myths surrounding dengue are leading to misinformation and misguided treatment approaches. This article is going to debunk 10 myths about dengue. Let’s clear up these misconceptions about this formidable mosquito-borne disease for effective prevention.
10 Misconceptions about Dengue
Dengue is Contagious
Dengue primarily spreads through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It is not a contagious disease. It is not transmitted through person to person contacts.
While dengue is not typically transmitted from person to person, there are exceptional circumstances to consider. For instance, an infected pregnant mother can pass the virus to her developing fetus. Additionally, transmission via blood products, organ donation, and transfusions, while extremely rare, is not entirely impossible.
Read more: Exploring Dengue Diagnosis: The Essential Tests for Detecting the Virus
Dengue Prevails in Rural or Developing Areas
This myth does not hold when examining the global reach of this infectious disease.
Dengue is not limited to any specific geographical or economic boundaries. Dengue can occur in any country where the Aedes mosquito species are present. This includes tropical and sub-tropical climates worldwide, encompassing both urban and semi-urban areas.
Children and Elderly Are Susceptible to Dengue
It's crucial to clarify that dengue can affect individuals of all ages, regardless of their age, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Dengue virus does not discriminate based on age. People of all age groups are susceptible to dengue infection, and this includes infants, children, teenagers, and adults. It's true that certain risk categories, such as children and the elderly, are more vulnerable due to their potentially weakened immune systems. However, even healthy individuals can contract dengue or develop severe symptoms.
Read more: Dengue Fever: Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
Any Mosquito Can Carry Dengue Virus
In reality, dengue can only be transmitted through the bite of a female mosquito belonging to the Aedes Aegypti or the Aedes Albopictus species. This certain species is distinguished by its characteristic white markings on the legs. The transmission occurs when it bites an infected individual and subsequently bites a healthy and non-infected person. After an incubation period of about a week, the same mosquito can transmit the disease to another individual. It makes these particular mosquito species the primary vectors for dengue transmission.
Dengue Mosquitoes Only Bite During the Day
While it is true that dengue-spreading mosquitoes are more active during the daytime, their feeding habits can extend into nighttime hours. These mosquitoes are typically most active around two hours after sunrise and a few hours before sunset. However, they have been observed biting people at night, particularly in well-lit areas.
One of the risk factors for nighttime exposure to dengue mosquitoes is the presence of artificial lighting. These mosquitoes can be drawn to indoor environments, including offices, malls, indoor auditoriums, and stadiums that use artificial lights throughout the day and night.
Read more: How to Protect Babies and Children from Dengue Fever
How to Enjoy Your Own Company: Tips to Overcome Loneliness
Loneliness, a pervasive emotion, can cast a shadow on one's life. The ache of isolation often pushes individuals to seek solace in social interactions. Yet, embracing one's solitude is fulfilling. Learning to savor our own company is a transformative journey. It empowers us to turn loneliness into a liberating experience.
10 Tips to Love Yourself and Stay Happy Alone
Avoid Comparison
When one consistently measures their worth against another person's life or accomplishments, they disregard their unique journey. They should embrace individuality, appreciate the path taken, and recognize that each person's journey is distinctive.
It is important to focus on personal progress and growth. It fosters a sense of contentment and happiness in one's own narrative. So, it is best to celebrate uniqueness without seeking validation from external sources.
Read more: 15 Japanese Concepts for Personal and Professional Development
Disconnect from Social Media
Taking a step back from social media allows individuals to reclaim their authentic selves. In this digital age, social platforms often perpetuate a distorted sense of reality. It contributes to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.
By unplugging and refocusing on real-life connections and experiences, one can break free from the comparison trap. Try to rediscover genuine human interaction and find solace in the present moment without the pressure of online portrayals.
Embrace a Peaceful Past
Letting go of past burdens is a pivotal step toward finding contentment in solitude. Harboring resentment, regret, or grievances from yesterday can cloud one's present and impede personal growth.
Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career
Accepting and making peace with the past, understanding that it shaped the broken person they are today, enables a lighter heart and a clearer mind. By forgiving themselves and others, they can liberate their spirit, allowing space for joy and serenity in the present.
Rediscover Passions
Rekindling hobbies and interests is a pathway to self-discovery and fulfillment. Often, in the hustle of daily life, personal passions take a backseat. By reigniting these flames of enthusiasm, individuals can reconnect with their true selves. Whether it is painting, writing, gardening, or playing an instrument, engaging in what once brought them joy can provide a sense of purpose and contentment in their own company.
7 Tasty Cauliflower Recipes for Children
In these busy times, when convenience often trumps nutrition, finding appealing ways to introduce healthy vegetables to kids can be a challenge. However, nutritious winter vegetables like cauliflower can also be offered to the young members of your family though healthy and appetizing recipes. We have gathered 7 delightful cauliflower recipes that can pique your child’s curiosity.
Health Benefits of Cauliflower
Cauliflower, also known as Romanesco cauliflower, with its striking fractal patterns, is not only visually intriguing but also nutritionally dense. The vegetable provides vital nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and folate.
Cauliflower strengthens a strong immune system and promotes digestion. It has anti-inflammatory properties. Consumption of this winter vegetable also helps to lose weight in a healthy way. Adding to this, cauliflower helps the human body to fight aging in a natural way.
Read more: Healthy Alternatives to Cakes and Cookies: 7 Delicious and Nutritious Swaps
7 Delicious Cauliflower Recipes for Children
Cauliflower Fritters
Ingredients
350 grams cauliflower (chopped into small florets), ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, zest of 1 lemon, small bunch fresh parsley (chopped), small bunch green onions (chopped), ½ cup plain (all-purpose) flour, 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 medium egg, and 3 tablespoon olive oil.
Instructions
First, boil the cauliflower florets for precisely 6 minutes. After draining, transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and lightly crush them. Ensure it resembles small gravel-sized lumps. Add in salt, pepper, lemon zest, parsley, green onions, flour, garlic, parmesan, and egg. Using a spoon, thoroughly mix the ingredients.
Proceed to make 8-10 balls from the mixture and flatten them before placing it on a plate. Repeat this process until all the mixture is utilized. Then, in a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the cauliflower fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until a desirable brownness is achieved. Finally, arrange the fritters on a plate and serve them.
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Cauliflower Cheese Egg Muffins
Ingredients
350 g cauliflower florets, 5 eggs, 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper, and optional baby spinach leaves.
Instructions
First, blitz the cauliflower until it is like fine couscous-like grains. In a bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Then, add the cheese and the prepared cauliflower. Season with salt and pepper as needed. At this stage, grease the muffin cups and carefully fill them with the egg mixture. You may decorate your muffins with spinach leaves.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the muffins for 15-20 minutes, or until they become firm and springy to the touch. Once they are done, allow the muffins to cool in the tray for about 5 minutes before serving.
Read more: 5 Easy Fruit Bread Recipes
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Ingredients
2 ½ cups chopped cauliflower in a food processor, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion chopped, 1 cup peas and carrots (thawed), 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (to taste), 2 eggs lightly beaten, and 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional).
Instructions
First, rinse and chop the cauliflower into florets. In a food processor pulse the cauliflower until it is finely minced like rice in texture. Next, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Then add onion, peas, and carrots, sautéing them until they are tender. Now pour the beaten eggs on one side and scramble the eggs.
Ensure they are cooked before mixing them with the vegetable blend. Then incorporate the cauliflower into the mixture, and pour soy sauce over it. Stir and fry the rice and vegetable concoction until it is heated through, and the cauliflower attains the desired tenderness. For extra flavor, you can add green onions.
Read more: 7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach
Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
Fires can be devastating, but with the right knowledge and precaution, parents can significantly reduce the risk to their children. Whether it's in the home, at school, or during family outings, understanding and implementing fire safety measures can make all the difference. In this guide, we will explore essential fire safety tips for parents to keep their children safe.
12 Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
One of the elements that can be both helpful and dangerous is fire. It can happen suddenly and at any time! The first rule to cope with the situation is not to panic. Besides, parents can follow these tips to prevent any harm to their kids.
Install Smoke Alarms
According to the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homes with working smoke alarms have a significantly lower risk of fire-related deaths. In homes where smoke alarms are working properly, the chance of death in a fire is 55% less compared to homes that either have no smoke alarms or have smoke alarms that don't work. It's essential to install smoke alarms in key areas of the home, including the kitchen, bedrooms, and hallways.
The smoke alarms should be checked regularly, and change the batteries at least once a year. The children should be trained about the sound of the alarm and what to do when they hear it.
Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
Create an Escape Plan
Having a well-thought-out escape plan is crucial for ensuring children's safety in the event of a fire. Parents need to discuss and practice the plan with their children regularly. A meeting place can be designated outside the house where everyone can gather.
Parents need to make sure that their children know how to crawl low under smoke to avoid inhaling toxic fumes and how to feel closed doors for heat before opening them.
Keep Matches and Lighters Out of Reach
One of the leading causes of fire-related deaths among children is playing with fire-starting materials. Children are naturally curious, and their curiosity often leads them to explore their surroundings, including potentially dangerous items like matches and lighters. They might not fully comprehend the dangers associated with fire, making them more likely to experiment with these items.
Parents should keep matches and lighters in a high, locked cabinet or drawer, out of the kids’ reaches. Additionally, children should be educated about the dangers of playing with fire and the severe consequences it can have.
Read more: Multi-storey buildings being built ignoring fire safety
Install Fire Extinguishers
Having a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and other key areas can make a significant difference in containing a small fire before it spreads. Parents need to ensure that their children know where the fire extinguishers are located and how to use them, following the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
Practice Kitchen Safety
The kitchen is one of the most common places for household fires to start. Children should be kept away from the kitchen when the stove and oven are on.
Parents can use back burners when possible and turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills. Flammable objects, such as dish towels and curtains, should be away from the stove. Older children should be taught how to use kitchen appliances in a safe way.
Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention
‘Introspect’: Suborna Morsheada's fourth solo exhibition at AFD begins
Artist Suborna Morsheada's fourth solo art exhibition, titled ‘Introspect’, has begun at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) in Dhanmondi on Saturday.
The inaugural ceremony of the exhibition was held at 6 pm at AFD's La Galerie, where the exhibition was opened by eminent artist Monirul Islam.
A graduate of the Department of Printmaking at Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Arts, Suborna’s artworks are deeply inspired by her emotional experiences and journey as an artist, spanning the spectrum from joy and serenity to moments of sadness and despair.
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In the year 2018, her debut solo art exhibition, ‘Love, Life and other Emotions, was held at Café Mango and Gallery in the capital.
Her works have been showcased in a number of exhibitions at home and abroad, including the 10th Ulsan International Woodcut Print Biennale 2022, South Korea; Documenta Fifteen 2022, Germany; 17th Asian Art Biennale 2016, Shilpakala Academy, Dhaka; Chobi Mela 2018 organized by Drik and Pathshala; Young Artist Art Exhibition (2016, 2018, 2022), Shilpakala Academy, Dhaka, to name a few.
She won the Kibria Young Printmaker Best Award in 2016 and the Berger Best Young Painter Award in 2018.
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"My fourth solo exhibition, ‘Intorspect, invites art admirers to explore the intricate relationship between nature, human experience, and the emotions that shape us. My works depict the stages of human development, mirroring the changing seasons and the ever-evolving landscape."
"Love, an integrated part of my work, is often likened to the warmth of the sun -- vibrant and passionate; conveying the intensity of romanticism and its ability to infuse life with colour and vitality," according to the artist.
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The exhibition, curated by ASM Rezaur Rahman, showcases a collection of 40 selected artworks based on a wide range of media, including etching, lithography, wood engraving, acrylic, and cyanotype, created between the years 2012 and 2023.
The exhibition will be open to all until September 29, everyday from 3 pm to 9 pm, except Sundays.
Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
Earthquakes are natural disasters that can strike without warning and leave devastation in their wake. These powerful tremors can be especially frightening to children. Let’s take a look at some essential earthquake safety tips for parents to ensure their children's safety and well-being.
Tips to Keep Children Safe During and After an Earthquake
The following guidelines can provide parents with the essential knowledge to keep their children safe during and after earthquakes.
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Creating a Family Emergency Plan is the foundation of disaster readiness. It involves establishing specific meeting locations within and outside home, ensuring everyone, especially children, knows where to gather during an earthquake or other emergencies. This plan enhances safety and preparedness for your entire family.
Read more: Turkey Earthquake: Why Did So Many Buildings Collapse?
Educate Your Children
Educating children about earthquakes is crucial for their safety. Parents should engage them in open conversations, emphasizing the need to remain calm during seismic events. It is recommended to apply language suited to the age of children to make them understand the situation without inducing undue fear. It will empower them to respond confidently in such situations.
Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On
Practicing 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' with children is vital to earthquake preparedness. Parents can teach their kids activities like instinctively dropping to the ground, seeking shelter under sturdy furniture, and holding on during tremors. These simple yet effective techniques can ensure their safety until the earthquake subsides.
Identify Safe Zones
It would be better to teach children to recognize areas free from hazards. Identifying safe zones within each room is crucial for earthquake safety. Parents may encourage them to stay in these designated safe spots during an earthquake. It will reduce the risk of injury from falling debris or shattered glass.
Read more: 6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes part of Philippines southwest of the capital
Best Hotels and Resorts in Kuakata
Kuakata, often referred to as the "Daughter of the Sea," is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the stunning shores of the Bay of Bengal in southern Bangladesh. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance, Kuakata has earned its place as one of the country's most sought-after tourist destinations. Naturally, several staycations have been developed here to accommodate the influx of tourists in every season. Let’s take a look at the most renowned hotels and resorts in Kuakata to spend vacations.
Top Resorts and Hotels in Kuakata
Sikder Resort and Villas
Sikder Resort and Villas is one of the largest and most luxurious seafront resorts in Kuakata. The resort is situated opposite to the Eco Park. It is strategically positioned to provide easy access to the beach at any time of the day.
Sikder Resorts has three different accommodation options. Visitors can choose to stay either in the Lake View tower, the Villas, or the Sunrise and Sunset tower. If you don’t want to miss the sunrise and sunset Kuakata is so famous for, we suggest booking the Sunrise and Sunset Tower.
Currently, the resort is offering a monsoon special offer. Visitors can book from several options ranging from deluxe, superior, premier, and royal suites which cost 7590 BDT, 10,626 BDT, 12,144 BDT, and 34,155 BDT for two people per day. Services like buffet breakfast, swimming pool, jacuzzi, car parking, internet, and gym are complementary.
Read more: Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do
Somudra Bari Resort, Kuakata
Somudra Bari Resort is situated in Kalapara, opposite the Sikder market. The resort is within walking distance from the Kuakata Sea beachfront. Somudra Bari can be a perfect accommodation choice for those looking for economic options.
The resort is situated right beside the lake which provides an exceptional view of the horizon from their lake view suites. Visitors can even go on a boat ride in the lake at an additional charge. There are two types of rooms for couples -/ Deluxe AC Lake View and Deluxe AC Garden View. Additionally, single rooms are also available. Services like buffet breakfast, in-room tea, and parking facilities come as complementary with the stay.
Last month, Somudra Bari was offering a 2-day 2-night stay package at 5,550 BDT for two. This month they are offering a 50% discount on all their rooms and services. Booking details are available on this resort's Facebook Page.
Read more: 11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
Rose Valley Motel and Resort
Rose Valley Motel and Resort is situated on the Kuakata main road, a bit away from the sea beach. While it's not very far from the beaches, it brings a sense of calm and quietness all around as there aren’t bustling people everywhere.
The resort can be a perfect vacation accommodation for budget travellers. There are five different room options ranging from Luxury suite, Superior deluxe to VIP suite. The cost ranges between 2500 BDT to 6500 BDT per night for two.
Room services, parking facilities, and wife come as complementary with the stay. Visitors can dine in-resort or choose from the several local restaurants nearby.
Read more: Top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
How to Get BRTA Smart Card Driving License
When it comes to driving from one place to another, having a driving license is not just a privilege but a necessity. But when it makes that transition time-consuming, the journey becomes downright painful. Unfortunately, it has been a regular scenario in Bangladesh. However, thanks to the Smart Card Driving Licence, the possibilities in the road transport sector are beginning to unfold. This is going to be a signature service of BRTA (Bangladesh Road Transport Authority). Let’s discuss the steps to get a BRTA Smart Card Driving License hassle-free.
What is the BRTA Smart Card Driving License?
The BRTA's Smart Card Driving License streamlines the license acquisition process, storing driver information and expediting police verification.
Previously, applicants needed to apply separately for learner and smart card licenses through BSP (BRTA Service Portal). Later on November 16, 2022, a merged online form was launched, simplifying this. It, even, comes with some new benefits.
New Benefits of BRTA Smart Card Driving License
- Single visit to the examination center for biometric, written, oral, and practical tests.- BSP portal registrants receive a learner license with an online QR code for temporary nationwide driving.- Services also include fee payment, exam results, application submission, and status tracking.- Smart card licenses are sent by post.
Read more: Smart NID Card in Bangladesh: Online Application Process, Documents Needed, Fees
Prerequisites for BRTA Smart Card Driving License
It includes mental and physical qualifications, education up to at least class 8, and minimum ages of 21 for professional and 18 for non-professional drivers. Importantly, passing the learner’s test is mandatory to apply for a smart card license.
How to Apply for the BRTA Smart Card E-Driving License
Required Documents
Most documents needed for a learner’s driving license application also apply here, including:- Recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant (300/300 pixels)- Medical certificate from a registered doctor.
Applicant's NID
- One utility bill (gas/electricity/water) if the current address differs from the NID- Certificate of educational qualification- Proof of passing learner’s driving license test- Refer to the provided links for police investigation reports, where applicable.
http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/511a7af4-20c8-4450-b4a6-5f92dde1b23f/-
http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/4258fc8f-8aec-4895-b11d-a0b33b489af2/-
Please ensure that all documents are scanned and prepared before applying online. The scanned passport-sized photo file should not exceed 150 KB (kilobyte), while other files should stay within 600 KB.
Read more: Bangladesh Smart National ID Card Correction Process: Payments and Necessary Documents
Online Application Process
To apply online, visit the BSP portal at https://bsp.brta.gov.bd/. Begin by creating an account on the portal through registration, which will store all the driving-related information. Let's proceed step by step through the application process.
Registration
- Click on the 'Registration' menu at the top right of the BSP portal.- Complete the registration by providing the date of birth, NID, and mobile number.- Verify the mobile number through the OTP (one-time-password) sent to it.- Finish the registration by setting a password.
Access the BSP portal using the mobile number and password. Those who have already registered can enter their accounts directly by clicking on the 'Login' menu on the site.
Application for Learner’s Driving License
- After logging in, the user will encounter their customer dashboard. On the left-hand side, they should navigate to the 'Driving Licence' sub-menu and select 'Application for Driving Licence.'- The next page displays the required documents. Download the Medical Certificate form via the 'Click Here' link.- Obtain a medical certificate from a registered doctor or medical officer based on this form.- Follow the terms on the page and click 'I agree' to proceed to the next step.
Read more: Where to Learn Car Driving in Dhaka?
NID Information
This step initializes the 5-step driving license application process. The NID number will auto-fill, considering it was provided earlier. Click 'Next' to proceed to the 2nd step.
Driving License Information
- Choose the driving license language, type, class of motor vehicle, and type of applicant (Learner and Smart Driving License).- Click 'Next,' and a popup message confirms the successful saving of information. Click 'OK' to proceed.
Basic Applicant Information
- Some information will be pre-populated based on the NID. Additional data needs to be input.- Complete mandatory fields, including educational qualification, blood group, occupation, marital status, nationality, and dual citizenship. Click 'Next,' then 'OK' as before.
Address and Contact Information
- Provide emergency contact details, including both permanent and current addresses.- If the current address remains unaltered, input it in English, mirroring the left-side display.- If the current address differs, click 'No' and input the changed address in both Bengali (left side) and English (right side). Click 'Next' and 'OK' as before to proceed.
Read more: Bangladesh e-Passport Information Update: Step by Step Procedure, Related Costs
Attachment and Smart Card Distribution Information
- Attach scanned copies of the required documents collected earlier. Click 'Choose File' to upload and 'Save' to attach. Use the 'View' button to preview attachments.- The address for smart card delivery via post is auto-filled. Alternatively, select 'Others' to specify a different address, providing full details.- Click 'Submit' to verify the information one last time. Make any necessary changes or confirm if all is accurate. If everything is correct, click 'Fees Deposit.'
Fee Deposit
- Note that only the learner's driving license application fee is required here.- Click 'Submit Fee,' proceed to the 'Payment Confirmation' page, and provide payment details, including the method and mobile number.- Confirm the payment by ticking the box next to the payment terms and clicking 'Confirm.'- The page will display the successful fee deposit, and the user can print the learner's driving license or the payment receipt.
Application for Smart Card Driving License
Prior to applying online for the smart card driving license, the individual must successfully pass the driving proficiency test. Check the test result by accessing the 'Application for Driving License' menu on the customer dashboard within the BSP portal. The test result will also be conveyed to the mobile number provided during the application.
Read more: Bangladesh E-passport Error Correction Process
Attach Required Documents
- Click 'View & Next Step' to access the attachment page, where documents attached during the learner driving license application will be pre-loaded.- Upload the 'Pass Learner' certificate and proof of passing the driving proficiency test. Additionally, attach any other required documents where applicable.
Payment of Fees
- To pay the fee through a bank, click 'Deposit fee through the bank.' For online payment, choose 'Deposit the driving license fee online.'- For online payment, click 'Pay Now' on the online payment page.- For bank payments, collect the e-tracking number from the bank's receipt and enter it in the 'Enter e-tracking number' box. Click 'Verify e-tracking number' to confirm payment details.- Review all payment information and click 'Submit' to complete the final payment of the fee.
E-Paper Driving License
Upon successful application submission for the smart card driving license, the e-paper license form will be displayed on the dashboard once approved by BRTA. Download and print it for use as a valid driving license until the physical smart card arrives. The dashboard will also display the latest license status.
Read more: Highway Robbery Prevention Tips while Driving at Night
Getting the Smart Card Driving License in Hand
Once the entire smart card driving license preparation process is finished, it will be displayed on the dashboard. The smart card driving license will then be sent by post to the address specified in your application.
BRTA Smart Card Driving License Fees
Learner driving license fees are to be paid exclusively through the BSP portal. The fee for one motor vehicle is BDT 518, while for two motor vehicles, it is BDT 748. For a 10-year non-professional license during the smart card driving license application, the cost is BDT 4,557. The 5-year professional license costs BDT 2,832.
Summing Up
There are actually two main phases, summarizing the methods for obtaining a BRTA Smart Card Driving License described above. The first phase precedes the driving skills test, primarily dealing with the procedure for acquiring a learner's driving license. The second phase of obtaining BRTA e-driving license emphasizes the digitization aspects associated with its transformation into smart cards.
Read more: How to Get a Trade License in Bangladesh?
A visit to remember: Rahul Ananda welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron at his home
The visiting French President Emmanuel Macron made a visit to the Dhanmondi residence of music artist, lyricist and instrumentalist Rahul Ananda of the popular Bangladeshi musical group 'Joler Gaan' on Sunday night.
Macron was accompanied by the Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud, alongside the French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy, the French cultural institution Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) Director François Grosjean, and other higher officials representing both countries.
The French president made the visit after dinner and stayed there for over one and a half hours. He interacted with Rahul Ananda’s family including his wife Urmila Shukla and son Tota, and three other Bangladeshi artists — Ashfika Rahman, Kamruzzaman Swadhin and Afroza Sara.
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Apart from listening to Rahul’s soulful, homely rendition of Bengali music including songs such as “Ami Banglay Gaan Gai” and a medley of Lalon songs, the French president also explored various musical instruments that Rahul Ananda makes and plays as an instrumentalist.
They also presented gifts to each other. The artist presented an ‘Ektara’ (a one-stringed Bengali musical instrument) to the French President, saying that this would remind him about this memorable visit, while Macron gifted a pen to Rahul Ananda, suggesting to write poems and songs. The artist shared the picture of the gift on his social media profiles.
Bangladesh rolls out red carpet to welcome President Macron
Marking this visit, Rahul Ananda alongside his family decorated the entrance of his 140-year-old Dhanmondi residence with flowers. During his short briefing with the media after the French President’s historic visit to his home, Rahul Ananda said that it was a brief yet beautiful cultural exchange between two artists, as the French President is also a musician by passion and a music enthusiast.
Informing the media about how the contact was made, the artist said that back in June, a multidisciplinary musical and theatrical performance titled "Made in Bangladesh" was staged at the Alliance Francaise de Dhaka, in celebration of World Music Day 2023 - in which he collaborated with Belgian artist Max Vandervorst, and the French president got interested after learning about this performance.
“I feel like and call myself a bird, and I am also an instrumentalist and I make my own instruments, so the tree is a pivotal part in my artistic activism, and I am actively involved in tree plantation across our country. The French president lauded this initiative and he also learned how to play the ‘Ektara’ I presented to him, and I was surprised to find out that he is a fast learner,” Rahul Ananda told the media.
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“Through your support, this unimaginable bridge was formed, thus the honourable President of France made a visit to my house — and I tried my best to represent our Bangladeshi culture and heritage in front of him,” Rahul Ananda said while expressing his gratitude to the media.
This brief two-day visit of the French President Emanuel Macron became historic since the last official visit by a French President to Bangladesh dates back to 1990.
15 Japanese Concepts for Personal and Professional Development
Self-improvement is a universal aspiration, and Japanese culture offers a treasure trove of wisdom and philosophies that can help enhance the quality of our lives. These concepts not only provide valuable insights but also inspire personal growth and well-being. In this article, we will explore some of these Japanese concepts that can guide you towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
15 Japanese Concepts to Improve Your Life and Career
Ikigai: Finding Your Purpose
Ikigai translates to "reason for being." It is the sweet spot where your passions, talents, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for intersect. Ikigai encourages you to discover what truly drives you and gives your life meaning.
It is about identifying your passions and strengths and aligning them with a purpose that adds value to the world. For example, your ikigai could be as simple as teaching, painting, or caring for others.
Read more: IKIGAI: The Japanese Secret to a Long Healthy life