lifestyle
5 Easy Fruit Bread Recipes
Bread has held a cherished place in human diets for centuries. Among the diverse range of bread options, fruit bread stands out with its sweet and fruity twist. Fruit bread brings delightful flavors and essential nutrients. Bread is rich in vital carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, raisins, mango, and pineapples elevate the taste of bread to a different level. More importantly, it enhances the nutritional content of your bread. You can enjoy a healthier and tastier bread experience with these simple recipes.
5 Delicious Homemade Fruit Bread Recipes
Banana Bread
Nutrition
Bananas are a nutrient powerhouse. It’s rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C. Bananas support heart health, aid digestion, and provide a quick energy boost making them an excellent choice for a healthy snack.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas (mashed), 1 cup white sugar, 1 egg, ¼ cup melted butter, 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.
Read more: 5 Drumstick Recipes for Snacks Lovers
Instructions
First, gather all the necessary ingredients. Next, you need to warm up your oven beforehand to 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes and grease a loaf pan (10 by 4 inches). By that time, combine bananas, sugar, egg, and butter in a bowl. Take another bowl and mix flour and baking soda. Then stir into the banana mixture until just smoothly mixed. After that add salt and pour the mixed batter into the loaf pan.
Bake it for about 1 hour in the preheated oven. After an hour insert a toothpick in the center to check. If your toothpick comes out clean, the bead is nicely baked. It’s ready to enjoy.
Orange Bread
Nutrition
Oranges are refreshing and nutritious packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It promotes a strong immune system and healthy skin. They also support heart health and aid in better digestion.
Read more: Having Snacks while Watching Sports: 10 yummy, nutritious, easy recipes
Ingredients
2 eggs, 1½ cups granulated sugar, orange zest (from 1 orange), 3 oranges (3/4 cup juice), 1110 grams unsalted butter (softened), 2 cups all-purpose flour, and 3 teaspoons baking powder.
Instructions
First, prepare to warm your oven in advance to 375°F/190°C for 15-20 minutes. By that time, in a large bowl, cream together the eggs and sugar until it’s smooth and pale. In the mixture, add orange zest, ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice, and butter. Then mix everything thoroughly using an electric mixer. Next, gradually pour flour and baking powder into the mixture and continue mixing until everything is well blended.
Splendours of Bangladesh: Gallery Cosmos to bring exclusive watercolour art camp on Friday
Commemorating the spirit of the great Father of the Nation and Bangladesh’s Founding President Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Gallery Cosmos, the reputed artistic wing of Cosmos Foundation, is set to host a two-day exclusive watercolour art camp titled “Splendours of Bangladesh” on Friday, August 11, at the Cosmos Centre in the capital.
The effort is being made to show respect to Bangabandhu who was not only the “Epitome of a Nation” known as Bangladesh, but also the visionary with a noble mission who dedicated his life to establishing the country on the world’s map with honour, glory and respect.
The art camp will feature six young and talented Bangladeshi painters - Abdullah Al Bashir, Azmol Hosen, Kamruzzoha, Sadek Ahmed, Shahnoor Mamun and Surovi Akter.
In this exclusive art camp, they will showcase their brilliance through their individual watercolour works on the theme of Bangabandhu’s glorious life and his majestic works and feature the country's unique natural resources and scenic, picturesque beauties of nature's finest places on earth, such as the Sundarbans, the biggest mangrove forest in the world; Cox’s Bazar, the longest natural sea beach in the world - and the monumental architectural landscapes such as the Jatiya Sangshad Bhaban, National Martyrs Memorial, Shaheed Minar, Buriganga River, Panam City, Kantajew Temple, Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, Shat Gambuj Mosque, and Ahsan Manzil - to name a few.
These exclusive artworks will be featured in a unique publication titled “A Tale of Two Nations” by Cosmos Books, the executive publication wing of Cosmos Foundation, which specialises in the arts, archaeology and history, architecture, design, photography, travel and popular culture, but also publishes in a variety of other areas, especially those of visual interest. Cosmos Books has been working closely with its sister art gallery, Gallery Cosmos, with the latter’s aim to discover, preserves and exhibits Bangladeshi art on an international platform.
This book will be an exclusive publication on Bangladesh and Singapore - the two states that seceded from Pakistan and Malaysia due to decolonisation, and both faced challenges in creating viable economies, integrating diverse populations, and defending their borders and interests in a world where great and middle powers compete.
The author-- Enayetullah Khan-- an esteemed entrepreneur who has built up a global Bangladeshi conglomerate from scratch and a journalist who has covered global affairs and personalities closely, shares his thoughts on the economic, political, and strategic trajectories of Bangladesh and Singapore, presenting a cerebrally analytical and vividly readable analysis through this book.
The art camp will continue on the following day (Saturday, August 12) at the same venue.
Top 10 Kidney Cleansing Teas with Recipes
Kidney problems are becoming increasingly common due to our modern lifestyle and dietary habits. Taking care of our kidneys is crucial, as they play a vital role in filtering out toxins and waste from our bodies.
One natural and effective way to support kidney health is through the consumption of kidney-cleansing teas. These teas taste great and possess properties that aid in flushing out harmful substances and promoting kidney function.
10 Best Teas to Flush out Toxins from Your Kidneys
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is mainly made from the dried petals of the hibiscus flower. It's commonly referred to as hibiscus, and most of them are edible. But Hibiscus Sabdariffa is the one mostly used for tea. In Bangladesh, it’s called "Joba Phool."
This tea is packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, and various minerals. It lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and supports kidney health. Hibiscus tea has a delightful tartness of cranberries.
To prepare, boil 2 cups fresh or ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers in 8 cups water. Then soak for 15-20 minutes. For sweetening you can add ¼ cup honey or as you desire and 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. Next, strain, and serve warm or chilled with ice.
Read more: 10 Healthy Bedtime Teas for Better Sleep, Relaxation
Nettle Leaf Tea
Nettle leaf tea is derived from the leaves of the Urtica Dioica plant. In Bangladesh, it is widely known as "Bichhuti Pata."
This tea is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium. Its health benefits include acting as a diuretic, supporting urinary health, and aiding in detoxification.
Begin by boiling 2 cups of water to make nettle-leaf tea. Next, put 2 tablespoons of dried nettle leaves or half a cup of freshly chopped nettle leaf into the teapot. Then, allow the tea to steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Finally, strain the leaves and savor your cup of nettle leaf tea.
Read more: Best Tea Brands in Bangladesh
Dandelion Root Tea
Dandelion root tea is made from the infusion of the dandelion plant's dried roots. Its scientific name is Taraxacum Officinale. It is locally called "Pitachumki" in Bangladesh.
Dandelion root tea is a good source of potassium, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It helps stimulate kidney function, aids in digestion, and detoxifies the body.
To make dandelion root tea, first boil 250 ml of water. In the water, add 1 tablespoon of dried dandelion root. Next, let it soak for 5-10 minutes. Then, strain, and enjoy the amazing tea.
Read more: These are the 10 Most Expensive Teas in the World
Unsweetened Green Tea
Green tea is a popular beverage worldwide. Scientifically, it’s known as Camellia Sinensis. In Bangladesh, it goes by the name "Shobuj Cha."
This tea is rich in polyphenols, catechins, and antioxidants. It is known for its potential to prevent kidney stones, reduce inflammation, and support overall kidney health.
First, boil 2 cups of water to prepare green tea. Next, remove it from the heat, add 2 tea bags or 1 tablespoon of loose tea, and steep for 3 minutes. Then strain the tea leaves and let the tea cool in the refrigerator. Finally, pour over 2 cups of ice and serve.
Read more: Health benefits of floral teas: 10 blends you can try
Tulsi/Holy Basil Tea
Holy Basil is an aromatic herb. It’s scientifically known as Ocimum tenuiflorum. In Bangladesh, it is called "Tulsi." It’s widely popular for traditional medicine purposes.
Tulsi tea is abundant in vitamin K and antioxidants. It acts as a diuretic, promotes kidney health, and boosts the immune system.
To prepare tulsi tea, boil 1 ½ cups of water. Next, turn off the heat and keep the pot on the stove. Then add 10-15 fresh tulsi leaves or ½ teaspoon tulsi powder (2 tulsi tea bags can be used). Steep it for 7-10 minutes. After that, pour the tea and stir in honey if desired. Remove the leaves and your tea is ready to enjoy.
Read more: Oolong Tea: Health Benefits, Nutrients and Risks
Rabindranath Tagore’s 82nd death anniversary being observed
Today marks the 82nd death anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European and Bengali poet to win the Nobel Prize for literature, and widely revered as the "World's Poet".
According to the Gregorian calendar, Tagore died at the age of 80 on August 7 in 1941; however, his death anniversary is traditionally observed on 22nd Srabon according to the Bangla calendar.
The day has always been observed with extensive programs in a befitting manner as a tradition in both Bangladesh and India's West Bengal.
Also read: Tagore’s 162nd birth anniversary on Monday
To observe the day, cultural organizations and government, non-government institutions are paying their respective tributes with virtual events, featuring several noted artists, Tagore enthusiasts, and scholars.
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) will organise a programme titled 'Rabindranath o Bangabandhu' at its National Music and Dance Centre Auditorium at 6:30 pm.
Chhayanaut, the country's esteemed cultural institution, will arrange an event titled "Aghaat Kore Niley Jiney" at Chhayanaut Sanskriti Bhaban in Dhaka's Dhanmondi at 7 pm.
Besides, television channels, namely Bangladesh Television, Channel i, Banglavision and others will air special programmes.
Also read: Tagore, Dostoyevsky, Pushkin revisited at DU, ULAB
Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi will stream a Facebook live program at 7:30 pm. The online event will feature songs, dance, recitation, and discussions, and it will be joined by Professor Syed Manzoorul Islam, Azizul Huq, Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi General Secretary Jamshed Anwar Tapan, and Assistant General Secretary Iqbalul Haque Khan, among others.
Youngest of thirteen surviving children of Debendranath Tagore and Sarada Devi, Rabindranath was born on 25th Baishakh, 1268 according to the Bangla calendar (May 7, 1861, according to the Gregorian calendar) in the Jorasanko mansion at Calcutta, British India.
Also referred to as the "Bard of Bengal”, Tagore composed over 2,000 songs which created a separate genre known as "Rabindra Sangeet". Besides, he wrote a total of eight novels, 84 short stories, and volumes of poems in his prolific literary career spanning almost seven decades.
Also read: Tagore’s 161st birth anniversary celebrated with in-person events after 2 years
He envisioned and founded the Visva Bharati University at Santiniketan in 1921 in order to strengthen the practice of culture and literature in the broader sphere and create future artists and writers for all ages.
of lyrical ballads, "Gitanjali" (Song Offerings), Rabindranath Tagore received the Noble Prize in Literature in 1913 as the first Bengali and non-European poet.
Bangladesh's national anthem "Amar Shonar Bangla" and India's national anthem "Jana Gana Mana" are both Rabindranath Tagore's creations.
Red Flags: 9 Signs Your Partner is Falling Out of Love
Relationships are beautiful, filled with love, trust, and companionship. Sometimes, even the most seemingly perfect relationship can encounter challenges. Not being loved anymore, or in the worst case scenario, infidelity is a heartbreaking and sensitive issue and shatters the foundation of trust between partners. It is essential to be aware of potential red flags that may indicate your partner is falling out of love or being unfaithful. In this article, we will explore nine signs that might suggest your partner is emotionally moving away from you.
9 Signs Your Partner Might Not Be in Love with You Anymore
Changes in Communication Pattern
If your partner suddenly becomes distant, avoids meaningful conversations, or hides their phone, it could indicate infidelity. Increased use of social media, defensive behavior when questioned, and secretive phone actions might also be red flags.
You need to pay attention to emotional shifts, minimal engagement, and unexplained breaks in communication. These changes could suggest that your partner is emotionally invested in someone else. You should keep in mind that open communication is essential to address relationship issues honestly.
Emotional Detachment
Emotional intimacy is one of the most crucial aspects of any relationship. If your partner suddenly seems emotionally distant, uninterested in your feelings, or disconnected, it might be a red flag.
Read more: Basic Communication Skills Needed in Business, Career, Relationships
Emotional detachment can indicate that they are investing their emotions elsewhere. It would be better to trust your intuition and consider having an open and honest conversation to address any concerns. It will work toward resolving any issues in the relationship.
Secretive Behavior
When your partner becomes secretive about their whereabouts, finances, or friendships, it might be a cause for concern.
If you notice a sudden shift in their openness and transparency, try to discuss the issue in detail and understand the reasons behind their secretive behavior. Communication is important to resolve any relationship challenges.
Decreased Intimacy
A drop in physical intimacy might signal issues in the relationship. If your partner loses interest in being intimate, it could suggest potential infidelity. It is essential to pay attention to any sudden changes in your intimate life and assess the reasons behind them.
Read more: How to Create Perfect First Impressions to Succeed in Career, Business, Relationships?
Various factors can influence intimacy like stress or health concerns. A drastic decline needs an open conversation. It would be best to discuss your concerns with your partner to understand the root cause. It will help a lot to resolve challenges in the relationship. Trust and communication are vital to building a stronger bond.
Unexplained Absences
Frequent and unexplained absences can raise suspicions. If your partner spends more time away from home without providing a reasonable explanation, it is important to talk about the situation.
It is suggested to address your worries openly. Open communication is vital for understanding the reasons behind their absences. With this, you can have a compassionate conversation toward a healthy relationship and rebuild trust.
Home-office Design Tips to Inspire Your Productivity
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a drastic shift in the way we work, with remote work becoming the new normal. As we transitioned into the post-COVID era, the home-office concept has emerged as an essential aspect of modern living. A home-office provides one a great opportunity to create a productive and inspiring workspace right within the comfort of one’s home. In this article, we will explore creative ways to design, decorate, and organize home offices to boost productivity.
Creative Ways to Design, Decorate and Organize Your Home-Office
Choosing the Right Location
The first step in setting up an effective home office is selecting the right location. One should opt for a well-lit area with minimal distractions. Considering natural light and ventilation is important to create a refreshing atmosphere that promotes focus. A quiet and dedicated space away from high-traffic areas in the home will help remain productive and undisturbed during work hours.
Ergonomic Furniture and Setup
Investing in ergonomic furniture is advisable to ensure comfort and prevent strain during long hours of work. An adjustable chair and a desk at the right height will promote good posture and reduce discomfort.
Read more: How to Choose Paint Colors for Your Entire House
Try to arrange your computer, keyboard, and mouse in a way that supports your wrists and neck. Prioritizing ergonomics in your home-office design will enhance your productivity and overall well-being.
Personalize Your Space
You can make your home office truly yours by adding personal touches. You may display motivational quotes, artwork, or photographs that inspire you and reflect your personality. You can also opt for nature-inspired wallpaper with serene landscapes or botanical prints to create a calming and visually appealing backdrop.
Gemstones Guide: Precious, Semi-precious Stones Used in Jewellery
Gemstones, the beautiful creations of mother nature, have fascinated humans for centuries. These alluring stones have been treasured, often finding their way into exquisite jewellery pieces to adorn people. In ancient civilizations, gemstones were believed to possess mystical properties that bring good health, fortune, prosperity, etc. Even today, the enchantment of gemstones persists, and they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of jewellery enthusiasts.
What Makes a Stone Precious?
Beauty
Beauty elevates a gemstone's preciousness. The mesmerizing inner reflection of light, aura and color grading of gemstones captivate hearts. For example, sapphire is renowned for its intense color and brilliance. It is one of the most precious gemstones used for making unique jewellery pieces worldwide.
Rarity
One of the most crucial factors that make a gemstone precious is its rarity. Gemstones that are found in limited quantities are highly sought after and command higher prices in the market. The pink diamonds' scarcity has elevated its value, establishing it as a prized and precious gemstone.
Read more: Gold vs Diamond: Which Should You Choose for Investment?
Clarity
The clarity of a gemstone refers to the absence of internal flaws. Stones with excellent clarity are considered more valuable as they allow for better light reflection and a more dazzling appearance. For instance, blue topaz is popular for its exceptional transparency.
Durability
Durability adds to a gemstone's preciousness, ensuring that it can withstand the test of time and wear. Diamonds, known for their exceptional hardness, are not only shiny but also a symbol of enduring love, making them highly valued and cherished gemstones.
Acceptability
Acceptability is another component of a gemstone's preciousness as it gains recognition and admiration among jewellery enthusiasts. Ruby is cherished for its deep red hue and historical significance. Its widespread appeal and cultural significance have made it a precious gemstone.
Cut
The cut enhances a gemstone's preciousness by maximizing its brilliance and visual appeal. A perfectly cut diamond exemplifies this. It reflects light in a brilliant display of beauty. A skillfully executed cut gemstone is prized for fine jewellery.
Read more: Gold Buyer's Guide: Know the types, colors, karats of the precious metal
What are the Most Precious Gemstones in the World?
Diamond
Diamond, the king of gemstones, is renowned for its unmatched beauty and durability. Its clarity and exceptional light dispersion make it a symbol of purity and eternal love.
Spain Travel Guide: Top 10 Must-Visit Places
The ancient European peninsula which the Romans used to call Hispania is today’s Spain. A country of just 47 million people is home to a rich history, cultural diversity, and tons of attractions. From the streets of Barcelona, and alleyways of Seville to the majestic landscape of Granada, this southwestern European country is sure to enthrall travellers. Let’s go on a journey of the top 10 must-visit places and attractions in Spain to plan the perfect itinerary. Vamos!
Top 10 Places to Visit in Spain
Barcelona
Home to the famous European club and the capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona has a plethora of attractions. Start off the trip at the magnificent La Sagrada Familia which is still under construction. Head over to Park Güell to relax and unwind. Visit the Gothic Quarter on La Rambla for a spooky experience. Barcelona is famous for its Flamenco dances, so don’t miss out on it.
ULAB-MSJ publishes Whitepaper on Bangladeshi entertainment industry
The Media Studies and Journalism Department (MSJ) of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) has recently published a white paper on Policy Regulation for a Sustainable Growth of Bangladesh's Entertainment Industry.
ULAB Media Studies and Journalism Head and ULAB Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Jude William Genilo, PhD, Associate Professor Sarkar Barbaq Quarmal, PhD, and Assistant Professor Muhammad Abdul Kader, PhD jointly contributed to the whitepaper.
The main objectives of this white paper are to discuss the trends relating to Bangladesh’s entertainment industry and to provide a range of approaches that may be utilized to regulate the said sector, according to the authors. In this manner, stakeholders would be in the best position to decide what regulatory measures should be set in place to ensure the industry’s sustained growth.
The white paper states that the prospects of the entertainment industry are bright. However, many stakeholders have expressed concerns that heavy-handed regulations may affect the growth of the sector.
The government needs to exercise its role in safeguarding national and public interests. But it should create an enabling environment that allows market players to operate feasibly, satisfy the entertainment needs of its citizens, and ensure the advancement of the entire industry.
On a special note, Prof Jude William Genilo emphasised that Bangladesh should strike a balance in its regulatory approach to provide an enabling environment for the industry. He also mentioned it would be wise to observe Asia’s leaders - China, Japan and India - in terms of their strategies for providing cultural services.
Dr Barbaq has mentioned his concerns about the threat of heavy-handed policy regulation in the context of the growth of the industry. On this note, Dr Kader added that a heavy-handed approach may even violate the country’s constitutional guarantees, particularly Article 39 on freedom of thought, conscience, speech and press.
The whitepaper earnestly urges for a multi-stakeholder approach that employs a variety of participants to partake in dialogue, decision-making, and implementation of the responses to jointly conceived problems.
The paper can be availed via this link: chrome extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://msj.ulab.edu.bd/sites/default/files/Whitepaper.pdf.
Nettle Leaf Tea: Health Benefits, Side Effects, and Recipes
Nettle-leaf tea is popular among health enthusiasts for its numerous benefits. This herbal infusion is made from the dried leaves of the nettle plant. It's scientifically known as Urtica dioica L. Nettle leaf has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Let's explore the various health benefits, dosage guidelines, recipes, and potential side effects of nettle-leaf tea.
Advantages of Nettle Leaf Tea and Who Should Consume It
Rich Source of Nutrients
Nettle leaf tea is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients play vital roles in supporting the immune system, maintaining bone health and healthy skin. For people with weak immune systems, this tea is extremely helpful.
Allergy Relief
Nettle leaf tea has natural antihistamine properties, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Regular consumption may provide relief for individuals suffering from seasonal allergies.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The tea contains compounds with anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for individuals with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer's, heart disease, and type-2 diabetes.
Read more: Milk Tea Vs. Black Tea Vs. Green Tea: Which is the healthiest option?
Healthy Hair and Skin
The abundance of vitamins and minerals in nettle leaf tea contributes to healthier hair and skin. It may help combat hair loss and dandruff, and improve the overall texture of the skin.
Supports Urinary Health
Nettle leaf tea acts as a diuretic. It promotes urine production, aiding in flushing out toxins and bacteria from the urinary tract. This potentially reduces the risk of urinary tract infections. Nettle leaf tea can benefit people with urinary conditions.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Some studies suggest that nettle-leaf tea may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving glucose control. So this versatile herb tea can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
Heart Health
Nettle leaf tea contributes to heart health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve overall cardiovascular function. This makes nettle leaf tea a valuable addition for anyone with heart problems.
Read more: Matcha Green Tea Health Benefits
Pain Relief
Nettle leaf tea's anti-inflammatory properties provide pain relief for conditions like arthritis and muscle discomfort. Its natural compounds help alleviate inflammation and reduce pain. This tea is a soothing option for those seeking relief from certain types of pain.
Blood Pressure Regulation
Nettle leaf tea helps regulate blood pressure due to its diuretic and vasodilatory effects. The tea's compounds can promote healthy blood flow and relaxation of blood vessels. This potentially contributes to maintaining optimal blood pressure levels.
Bone Strength
Nettle leaf tea supports bone health with its rich content of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Regular consumption of nettle-leaf tea can be beneficial for overall skeletal well-being.
Read more: Health benefits of floral teas: 10 blends you can try