lifestyle
Blue Zones: Secrets behind Longer, Healthier Lives
Thriving for healthy living and aspiring for an extended life is a common pursuit. People often wonder if there are places where this aspiration transforms into reality. The Blue Zones concept seems to make that imagination come true. This article is going to decode the mysteries of living longer, healthier lives. Let’s try to hold the key to unlock an exceptional sense of well-being.
What is the Blue Zone?
The origins of the Blue Zone concept can be traced back to the inquisitive demographic research of Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain in 2004. Their discovery led them to Sardinia's Nuoro Province, a place so abundantly endowed with male centenarians that it earned the name.
This initial revelation stirred the curiosity of explorer Dan Buettner, prompting him to unveil four additional zones of wonder. These regions each offer a distinct blend of factors contributing to the prolonged, vibrant lives of their inhabitants.
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Blue Zone Locations around the World
Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia, a rugged island off the Italian mainland, where the concept of Blue Zones first took root. This remarkable enclave boasts a population where men live almost as long as women, an unusual occurrence when compared to most other regions worldwide.
The diet here consists mainly of whole grains, vegetables, beans, dairy products, and limited meat consumption.
Their lifestyle encourages daily chores and walking, as Sardinia is a mountainous island. Many traditional shepherds still can be found walking over five miles.
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Sardinians also enjoy local wine, as part of their social tradition, called Cannonau or grenache.
Strong family and community ties are central to their way of life, with multiple generations often residing in the same household. In Sardinia, it's about living better and cherishing family above all else.
Top 10 Police Dog Breeds in The World: The Ultimate K-9 Heroes
Dogs, often referred to as "man's best friend," have long played a pivotal role in human society. They are incredibly smart, loyal, and strong, making them perfect for important jobs. Among these roles, serving alongside the police stands out! These breeds are more than just pets; they are real-life superheroes with a mission to protect and serve. This article discusses the 10 Smartest Police Dog Breeds around the globe. Each breed features unique stories, appearance, characteristics, and incredible abilities. Let’s get ready to meet some remarkable crime-fighting canines!
10 Finest Police Dog Breeds Worldwide
German Shepherd
This breed with a rich heritage, was developed by Max von Stephanitz in 1899. These dogs are known for their remarkable intelligence, adaptability, and impressive work ethic.
The average height of male German Shepherd dogs are about 60 to 65 cm and weigh around 30 to 40 kg, while the female dogs are slightly smaller.
During World War I, one heroic German Shepherd named Antis served in North Africa and England. In 1949, this dog breed played a vital role in an escape from communist Czechoslovakia. Bing, also known as Brian, served the 13th Parachute Battalion during World War II, displaying courage and loyalty. Irma, another remarkable German Shepherd, rescued people trapped under destroyed buildings during the London Blitz in 1945.
Today, security agencies worldwide, including Guard Dog Patrols in Denmark, International VIP Bodyguard (IVIPB) LTD in the UK, and Sparta Security Group, rely on German Shepherds for their unmatched skills and dedication to duty.
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Belgian Malinois
It, originally a herding dog from Belgium, has evolved to become a versatile and agile breed. With average height of 56 to 66 cm and weight of 20 to 30 kg, these dogs are known for their hard work and dedication.
One outstanding Malinois, K9 Killer, was awarded the PDSA Gold Medal for assisting in capturing 115 poachers at Kruger National Park. Kuga, an Australian Army Malinois, received the Dickin Medal for capturing an insurgent despite being injured in the War in Afghanistan. Mali, a British Army Malinois, also earned the Dickin Medal for completing a mission while injured during the same conflict.
IVIPB LTD, a British company, and Integrity K9 Services in the United States, are among the security agencies that incorporate these extraordinary Belgian Malinois into their ranks.
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Bloodhound
This is a large scent hound with an origin that remains disputed, but its tracking abilities are legendary. The male bloodhound dogs weigh around 36 to 72 kg with height of 58 to 69 cm on average. Their female counterparts are slightly shorter.
Their extraordinary sense of smell and tracking instincts have made them invaluable in police work and search-and-rescue missions. A famous Bloodhound, Tunga, in Karnataka, India, uncovered over 50 murders and 60 thefts during her service.
Notably, the Bloodhound played a significant role in history as well. During World War I, they carried messages and pulled ambulance litters in the battlefields.
IVIPB LTD continues to incorporate Bloodhounds into its operations.
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Boxer
This breed, hailing from Germany, has a distinctive square muzzle and powerful bite. Male Boxer dogs typically weigh around 30 to 32 kg with height of 56 to 64 cm, while female boxers weigh around 25 to 27 kg with height of 53 to 61 cm on average.
Boxers' bright, energetic, and playful nature makes them ideal for various roles, including serving as police dogs. These intelligent animals have also worked as messenger dogs, pack carriers, and guard dogs during times of war. Punch and Judy, two Boxers, were awarded the Dickin Medal for their gallantry in a military conflict.
IVIPB LTD recognizes their value and includes them in their list of Police Dog Breeds Used in Law Enforcement and Governments.
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Dobermann Pinscher
It, originally developed by Louis Dobermann, stands out for its intelligence and grace. The male Dobermann Pinscher dogs typically range from 68 to 72 cm in height, weighing 40 to 45 kg. On the other hand, the female Dobermanns have average heights and weights of 63 to 68 cm and 32 to 35 kg respectively.
Dobermanns are known for their loyalty and make excellent guard dogs. Their unique characteristics made them popular during World War II, serving as guard dogs and even as messengers.
One unforgettable Dobermann, Cappy, saved the lives of 250 U.S. Marines when he alerted them of DWJapanese soldiers. Another, named Kurt, was the first K-9 casualty in the war.
Today, IVIPB LTD incorporates Dobermanns into its list of Police Dog Breeds Used in Law Enforcement and Governments.
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13 Tips to Avoid Mosquito Bites
In recent times, there has been a surge in dengue-related deaths caused by mosquito bites. Mosquitoes, those tiny, buzzing bugs, might seem harmless, but they can be carriers of deadly diseases. To protect yourself and your loved ones from these pesky insects, it is really important to take preventive measures. In this article, we will explore some proven tips to help you avoid mosquito bites.
13 Ways to prevent Mosquito Bites
Mosquito Repellent Sprays and Creams
Mosquito repellent sprays and creams are your allies in the battle against these bloodthirsty insects. Sprays with DEET or picaridin create a protective barrier when applied to skin and clothing. Creams add an extra layer of defense, especially on exposed areas like the face and neck. Use both to effectively repel mosquitoes and keep those pesky insects at bay.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing is a smart way to avoid mosquito bites. You may opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants, preferably in light colors. Mosquitoes are less attracted to light-colored clothing. By covering up, you create a physical barrier that makes it harder for mosquitoes to reach your skin.
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Avoid Peak Mosquito Activity
Avoiding peak mosquito activity hours is a practical way to minimize your risk of bites. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. If possible, stay indoors during these times or take extra precautions when you need to be outside. By doing so, you reduce your exposure to these bloodsucking pests.
Install Window Screens
Installing window screens is a simple yet effective measure to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. These screens act as a barrier, keeping mosquitoes out while allowing fresh air to flow in. By ensuring your windows and doors have screens in place, you can enjoy a mosquito-free indoor environment, especially during the warmer months.
Maintain a Mosquito-Free Yard
A mosquito-free yard starts with proactive steps. It is best to regularly clean your yard by removing debris and items that can collect stagnant water, like old tires or buckets. You need to ensure trash cans are tightly sealed to prevent them from becoming mosquito breeding grounds.
Additionally, you should be concerned about emptying containers that collect rainwater, such as flower pots and bird baths, to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. By doing so, you create an environment that's less welcoming to these disease-carrying insects.
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Use Mosquito Nets
Using mosquito nets is a practical solution, especially when sleeping outdoors. Mosquito nets create a physical barrier between you and mosquitoes protecting you throughout the night. You have to simply suspend the netting over your sleeping area to keep those insects at bay, ensuring a peaceful and bite-free night's sleep.
Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career
In today's fast-paced world, personal grooming has become more than just looking good. It's a journey toward self-development that can significantly impact someone’s life, career, and business. Personal grooming is a key component of this journey, as it helps people look better and boosts their self-confidence and charisma. Let’s delve into the significance of grooming for personal and professional improvement. This article will also provide some practical tips and tricks that one should know to one’s self-grooming.
What Is Personal Grooming?
Personal grooming is a wide range of practices and habits aimed at enhancing one's physical appearance, personality, and overall self-presentation. It goes beyond mere aesthetics and includes aspects such as hygiene, etiquette, attire, communication skills, and self-confidence.
Personal grooming is not about conforming to unrealistic beauty standards. But it is about feeling comfortable in one's skin and presenting the best version of oneself to the world.
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Drik’s celebrates 34th founding anniversary, Dr Zafrullah’s contributions in health movement commemorated
Marking the occasion of Drik's 34th founding anniversary, an exclusive lecture event titled Golam Kasem Daddy Lecture "Dr Zafrullah, National Drug Policy 1982 and Bangladesh Health Movement" took place at Drikpath Bhaban in the capital on Monday.
The lecture was presented by Professor Md Sayedur Rahman, Chairman of the Department of Pharmacology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).
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Eminent photojournalist Shahidul Alam, Managing Director of Drik, greeted the audience with his welcome speech at the beginning of the program.
Prof Sayedur Rahman, in his lecture, shed the spotlight on several characteristics of Dr Zafrullah in light of his personal experience. He discussed Zafrullah’s involvement in the field hospital during the turbulent periods of 1971 Liberation War, the establishment of his iconic Gonoshasthaya Nagar, his opinions on women's emancipation, and his general life.
He also emphasized Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury's contribution to the creation of the 1982 National Drug Policy and how that policy had aided in the development of the domestic pharmaceutical industry's independence, saying: "In independent Bangladesh, Dr Zafarullah founded the health movement with the dream of creating an equitable society. The National Drug Policy of 1982 served as a catalyst in the battle against a profit-oriented healthcare system.”
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“Dr Zafrullah believed that this policy could free people from the slavery of capital. The 1982 National Drug Policy, for that reason, not only prioritized the growth of the local pharmaceutical sector but also increased drug accessibility for the masses.”
“In addition to promoting local pharmaceutical companies over foreign ones, the policy ensured people's affordability. Domestic pharmaceutical businesses could not make more than Tk 5–6 crore in profits annually prior to the establishment of this policy; and now they generate Tk 1000, 1200, or even 1500 crore annual turnovers.
“Bangladesh stood as one of the 14 nations with its own drug policy after its establishment - and that credit goes to Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury. His proposed drug policy will remain an outstanding document for building a welfare-oriented state,“ Professor Sayedur Rahman said, emphasizing how Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury played a leading role in the health movement of Bangladesh during his lifetime with his humanitarian actions.
On behalf of Zafrullah Chowdhury's family, his wife Shireen Huq and son Bareesh Hasan Chowdhury; along with the staff members of Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital at Dhanmondi and Gonoshasthaya Kendra Hospital at Savar, human rights activist Khushi Kabir, economist and educator Anu Muhammad, teacher and women's rights activist Firdous Azim and others joined the lecture.
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In addition to Drik's well-wishers and former and present staff members, the event was also attended by several photographers and journalists, celebrating the 34th founding anniversary of the esteemed organization.
Commemorating the legendary Bangladeshi photographer and writer Golam Kashem Daddy, every year Drik organizes this exclusive lecture. Previously, the lecture was addressed by several eminent personalities including artist Mustafa Monwar, artist Dhali Al Mamun, film activist Catherine Masud and others.
What is Self-relationship? Keys to Building a Healthy Relationship with Yourself
In today's fast-paced society, it's simple to become entangled in the hectic demands of everyday life. Often we neglect the most crucial relationship of all — the one with ourselves. Building a healthy self-relationship is the foundation for a fulfilling and balanced life. This article will show ten ways to nurture the relationship with one’s own self, focusing on its significance.
Defining Self-relationship
Before we delve into the importance of self-relationship, let's clarify what it entails. Self-relationship refers to the quality of connection, understanding, and care one has for oneself. It's about treating yourself with the same love, respect, and kindness you would offer to a close friend or loved one.
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The Significance of Self-relationship
Self-acceptance
Self-acceptance is embracing your flaws, quirks, and imperfections without judgment. When you accept yourself as you are, you cultivate inner peace, confidence, and a sense of worthiness. This foundation of self-acceptance allows you to navigate life's challenges with resilience and authenticity.
Stress reduction
Stress reduction empowers you to cope effectively with life's pressures. By nurturing a positive self-relationship, you gain access to inner strength and resilience. It creates a buffer against stressors and promotes emotional well-being.
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Improved Decision-making
Enhanced decision-making is a key aspect of self-relationship's significance. When you foster a positive connection with yourself, you gain clarity on your values and aspirations. This self-awareness guides your choices. It ensures they align with your authentic self, leading to more fulfilling and well-informed decisions.
Enhanced relationships
Improved relationships are a vital component of the significance of self-relationship. When you nurture a healthy bond with yourself, you can extend the same empathy and care to others. This fosters deeper, more meaningful connections with family, friends, and partners, enriching your overall life experience.
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Healthy Alternatives to Cakes and Cookies: 7 Delicious and Nutritious Swaps
Cakes and cookies or biscuits, with their delightful flavors and textures, have carved a special place in the ever-evolving culinary culture. Their universal appeal transcends borders, making them beloved indulgences across the globe. However, beneath their sweet charm lie potential health concerns. This article explores the health risks of Cakes and biscuits, offering seven nutritious alternatives to satisfy your cravings.
Health Risks of Cakes and Cookies
Cakes and biscuits, though tempting, come with a set of health risks that should not be overlooked. Here are the key concerns:
High Sugar and Refined Flour Content
Cakes and cookies usually contain sugar and refined flour, causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Consistent high sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance, paving the way for diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
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Saturated Fats and Cholesterol Levels
These baked foods often contain solid and highly saturated fats like butter and palm oil, which can increase low-density cholesterol levels.
Margarine or butter used in cakes can contribute to raised cholesterol levels in the blood.
Dental Issues
The sugary and starchy nature of cakes and cookies can contribute to cavities and dental problems over time.
Weight Gain
Cakes are rich in carbohydrates and fats, making them calorie-dense and conducive to weight gain.
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Blood Glucose Spikes
Sugar is one of the most common ingredients used in baking cakes. The sugar in cakes can lead to higher blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of developing diabetes over time.
‘The Reflection of Endless Mystery’: Nabaraj Roy's first solo exhibition opens at AFD
The maiden solo art exhibition of artist Nabaraj Roy titled ‘The Reflection of Endless Mystery’ has begun at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) in the capital's Dhanmondi.
The inaugural ceremony of the exhibition was held at 6 pm on Friday at La Galerie.
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Eminent artist and Dhaka University Emeritus Professor Rafiqun Nabi joined the event as the chief guest, while distinguished artist and former Professor of Fine Art at Rabindra Bharati University, Nikhil Ranjan Pal, along with Dean of the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art Prof Nisar Hossain joined the event as special guests.
Presented within the exhibition titled "The Reflection of Endless Mystery," there are 25 captivating artworks encompassing acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media paintings, as well as sculptures that showcase the brilliance of Nabaraj's artistic journey.
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Ever since childhood, artist Nabaraj Roy has been greatly attracted to the aesthetic diversity of forms found in nature. It is this diversity that drives him to create new shapes and forms. The contradictions emerging from the scenes, time, forms, and structures of urban and rural dwellings have had a deep-rooted impact on his mind.
Alongside these, the changes in time and culture have left deep impressions as well. When new shapes and forms are created spontaneously in this world of images today, they all contribute to expanding his thought. These are the forms that keep on returning to his canvas. Through these, he creates his art, his symphony! With his creations inspired by folk forms, urbanization, and nature,
Roy's works have captivated audiences with their unique perspective. This exhibition promises an immersive showcase of young artist Nabaraj Roy's artistic evolution, offering spectators a chance to engage with his distinctive interpretations of the world.
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Among his distinguished recognitions are the 2020 SM Sultan Foundation Award and the 2019 Special Award from the Mount Fuji Painting Exhibition in Bangladesh.
An alumnus of the University of Development Alternative (UODA) in Dhaka, Roy graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, specializing in painting. Expanding his artistic prowess, he pursued a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting from Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, India, completing his studies in 2016.
The exhibition will be open to all till Tuesday, September 12, Monday to Saturday from 3 pm to 9 pm.
History of Bengali Calendar: Tracing Centuries of Timekeeping
The history of the Bengali Calendar holds a vital place in the Bengali culture in both Bangladesh and West Bengal, India. In both words and numbers, this timekeeper tells a tale of change that goes back centuries. This article looks at where it started, its journey through history, and the ways it transformed to become what it is today. Let’s uncover the captivating story of how the Bengali Calendar began, influenced cultures, and still marks important times today.
Historical Evolution of the Bengali Calendar
The origins of the Bengali calendar can be traced back to ancient Hindu calendar systems and the practice of timekeeping in the Indian subcontinent. Jyotisha, one of the six ancient Vedangas, focused on observing and predicting celestial movements to track time accurately.
Within this context, the Hindu Vikrami calendar, named after King Vikramaditya and starting from 57 BCE, played a role in shaping timekeeping practices. In rural Bengali communities, the Bengali calendar, credited to "Bikromaditto," held significance.
Various dynasties that held sway over Bengal prior to the 13th century used the Vikrami calendar. Buddhist texts and inscriptions from the Pala Empire era referenced months such as Ashvin. They align with Sanskrit texts from different regions of the Indian subcontinent.
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Hindu scholars engaged in rigorous calculations to track the cycles of celestial bodies. Sanskrit astronomical texts, spanning centuries, contributed to this effort. The works of Aryabhata, Latadeva, Varahamihira, Brahmagupta, and Lalla presented calculations of planetary motions and characteristics. Surya Siddhanta, with a completion date ranging up to the 10th century, contained vital insights into solar calculations.
The foundation of the current Bengali calendar, as used in Indian states like West Bengal, Tripura, Assam, and Jharkhand, can be traced back to the Sanskrit text Surya Siddhanta. Modifications introduced during the reign of Shashanka, the first independent ruler of Gauda, enriched this version. The calendar's historical connection to Shashanka's ascension to sovereignty corresponds with the inception of the Bangabda era. This calendar retains the original Sanskrit month names, with Baishakh as the first month. This anchored it to the Hindu calendar system and governed the timing of Bengali Hindu festivals.
Additionally, it's theorized that Alauddin Husain Shah, a Hussain Shahi Sultan of Bengal, might have amalgamated the lunar Islamic calendar with the solar calendar. Alternatively, the calendar could have originated from Emperor Shashanka or Nawab Murshid Quli Khan's fiscal policies during Mughal rule.
In the Mughal period, land taxes were collected from the Bengali populace based on the Islamic Hijri calendar, which followed a lunar cycle. This misalignment with the solar agricultural cycle, prompting the need for calendar reform. Mughal Emperor Akbar took up the task, commissioning the creation of a new calendar that integrated elements from both the lunar Islamic and solar Hindu calendars. The resultant "Fasholi shan," or harvest calendar, marked the potential starting point of the Bengali calendar.
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Development and Transformation of the Bengali Calendar
The "Tarikh-e-Elahi" calendar, introduced during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, represents a pivotal juncture in the evolution of the Bengali calendar. This hybrid calendar was a testament to Akbar's innovative governance approach, aiming to harmonize administrative and fiscal needs with agricultural cycles. By blending elements of the lunar Islamic calendar and the solar Hindu calendar, the "Tarikh-e-Elahi" sought to create a functional timekeeping tool that addressed diverse societal requirements.
Notably, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's reign brought further refinement to the calendar. His adjustments, which included a seven-day week commencing on Sunday and the synchronization of month names with the Saka calendar, laid the groundwork for the calendar's continued relevance. These modifications not only facilitated tax collection but also transformed the calendar into a cultural reference point for the people of Bengal.
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Recent Changes and Revisions in the Bengali Calendar
Recent times have witnessed efforts to modernize and enhance the Bengali calendar's accuracy and functionality. In 2018, Bangladesh embarked on a calendar reform aimed at aligning national days with Western dates. This endeavor resulted in adjustments that included the shifting of Kartik's start and a corresponding delay in the Hemanta season. These modifications illustrate the calendar's responsiveness to contemporary needs and its ongoing relevance.
Presently, the year is designated as 1426 in the Bengali calendar. The realignment of national days is a noteworthy outcome of the reform. Key observances such as the Language Martyrs' Day, Independence Day, and Victory Day, commemorated on 21 February, 26 March, and 16 December respectively, will consistently fall on Falgun 8, Chaitra 12, and Poush 1 of the Bengali calendar for the next century. This adjustment ensures that cultural and historical commemorations remain consistent and synchronized.
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Historical Attempts at Calendar Reform
The history of the Bengali calendar is punctuated by notable attempts at reform. Dr. Meghnad Saha's and Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah's efforts in the 1950s and 1963 respectively mark crucial steps towards enhancing the calendar's accuracy and functionality. These initiatives laid the foundation for subsequent improvements and demonstrated a commitment to scientific precision.
In 1957, the introduction of the National Calendar in India marked a significant stride in standardizing calendars. This calendar, which amalgamated elements from the Surya Siddhanta and underwent substantial modifications, exemplified the ongoing quest for precision. While not extensively adopted outside official circles, it underscored the importance of regional calendars in cultural and administrative contexts.
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Implementation of Calendar Reform in Bangladesh
Bangladesh's journey towards calendar reform gained momentum in 1987. The decision to adopt a more accurate and internationally aligned calendar underscored the country's commitment to modernization and synchronization with global standards. This reform initiative aimed to rectify historical inconsistencies and align the calendar with contemporary expectations.
To address these concerns, committees were formed in 1995 and 2015, comprising experts in linguistics, mathematics, physics, and culture. The recommendations of these committees aimed to refine the calendar's accuracy and structure. Proposals such as designating Falgun as a leap-year month and adjusting month lengths were key components of these reform efforts, which sought to blend scientific precision with cultural significance.
The culmination of these endeavors resulted in the official preparation of the calendar in 2019. This modernized calendar, rooted in historical heritage yet adapted for the present, serves as a symbol of the nation's commitment to accuracy and cultural continuity.
Bottom Line
The history of the Bengali Calendar is a captivating journey through time. From its inception to modern reforms, it has remained a crucial aspect of the Bengal region's cultural identity. As the calendar continues to evolve, its resilience and adaptability reflect its enduring significance in shaping the rhythm of life for people across generations.
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Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention
Bullying is a major concern that spans age and settings, sparing no space from its reach. Usually, bullying is connected with school and online spaces. We often forget other bullying behaviors like sibling bullying and abuse. In this article, we will explore the causes behind sibling bullying, its diverse forms, red flags to pay attention to, and most importantly, effective strategies for parents to both avert and tackle such conduct.
Common Reasons for Sibling Bullying and Abuse
- Jealousy and competition
- Power imbalance
- Modeling behavior
- Lack of communication skills
- Copying parental behavior
- Seeking attention
- Personal insecurities
- Unresolved conflicts
- External stressors.
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Types of Sibling Bullying and Abuse
Physical Bullying
Physical bullying entails employing force or aggression to intimidate or cause harm to a sibling. This can include hitting, pushing, kicking, or any other physical actions intended to exert control or cause physical pain.
Psychological Bullying
Psychological bullying is a subtle yet damaging form of abuse where one sibling manipulates another's emotions, self-esteem, and perceptions. This can involve tactics like spreading rumors, exclusion, and using psychological pressure to gain control or dominance.
Sexual Bullying
Sexual bullying involves inappropriate and coercive behaviors of a sexual nature between siblings. This can encompass unwanted advances, comments, or actions that create a hostile environment, causing emotional distress and violating personal boundaries.
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Symptoms of Sibling Bullying and Abuse
- Unexplained marks or bruises
- Frequent feelings of unease
- Marks from self-harm or expressing thoughts of self-harm
- Decline in school performance
- Fear or anxiety around a particular sibling
- Rapid fluctuations due to stress
- Refusal to be alone with the sibling
- Low self-esteem
- Running away from home
- Sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns
- Inappropriate sexual behavior.
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Effects of Sibling Bullying and Abuse on Children’s Mental Health
- Diminished confidence and self-worth
- Triggering depression
- Anxiety due to fear
- Social isolation
- Trust issues
- Internalized aggression
- Decline in concentration and grades
- Potential engagement in self-destructive behavior
- Eating disorders
- Effects can extend into adulthood.
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How Parents can Protect Children from Sibling Bullying and Abuse
Set Clear Boundaries
Try to establish firm rules that unequivocally condemn any form of aggressive behavior or bullying between siblings. Communicate consequences for crossing these boundaries, reinforcing the importance of respect and kindness.
Positive Reinforcement
Parents should acknowledge and reward instances of respectful interactions and cooperation between siblings. This encourages a culture of kindness and reinforces the benefits of treating each other with respect.
Model Respectful Behavior
It is important to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and respectful communication in parents' interactions with others, including their children. Children often learn by example, and seeing respectful behavior from adults sets a powerful precedent for sibling interactions.
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Individual Attention
Parents should spend quality time with each child. This helps build strong bonds and reduces feelings of rivalry. It also fosters a sense of belonging, decreasing the likelihood of resorting to bullying for attention.