United News of Bangladesh

Taking your furry friend on holiday doesn’t have to be stressful. With some planning, it can turn into an adventure filled with wagging tails and lasting memories. Whether you’re eyeing a beach escape, a quiet cabin, or a city break, a pet-friendly trip is more achievable than you think. Start by choosing the right destination — coastal towns, countryside retreats, and national parks are often ideal but always check local pet policies as some areas restrict pets seasonally. Accommodation is equally important: many hotels, rentals, and campgrounds welcome pets, but be sure to confirm size limits, fees, or special rules. Packing smart goes beyond food and a leash — include collapsible bowls, treats, a favorite toy or blanket, sunscreen for sunny spots, and a pet first-aid kit. Travel comfort matters too: take regular breaks on road trips, never leave pets unattended in cars, and review airline or train policies before booking. Safety should come first. Keep ID tags updated, carry vaccination records, and consider calming aids if your pet is uneasy in new environments. Once you arrive, explore pet-friendly activities like dog parks, beaches, or cafes. Always respect local etiquette by cleaning up after your pet and following leash rules. Finally, don’t forget rest time — pets tire just like humans. Allow breaks for them to recharge so both of you can truly enjoy the holiday. With the right preparation, your trip can be smooth, safe, and filled with happy memories for you and your four-legged travel buddy. Source: With inputs from NDTV  

Weighted vests are becoming a popular accessory in gyms and on jogging tracks, promoted as tools to strengthen bones, boost performance and even accelerate weight loss. But fitness experts caution that while they can be useful, the benefits may be overstated. The vests, which add resistance through removable weights, can make everyday exercises more challenging without altering routines. “People start to realize how good it feels to work just a little bit harder and smarter,” said Jessie Syfko of Life Time gyms. Research suggests that for healthy adults, adding about 10% of body weight to a vest may improve agility, speed and athletic performance. However, studies show limited effects on weight loss or bone density, especially in older adults. A delicious guide to frozen drinks this summer Experts warn against overloading: starting with 5–10% of body weight is safest. Heavy vests can strain joints, disrupt posture and cause injuries. Pregnant women, seniors and those with heart, lung or spine conditions should consult a doctor before use. “When used correctly, a weighted vest can be a good tool in your fitness toolbox,” said Jeff Monaco, a strength coach at the University of Texas. Source: Agency 

Kilauea volcano in Hawaii erupted again on Tuesday, spewing lava up to 330 feet (100 meters) from its summit crater, marking its 32nd eruption since December when the current activity started. Lava has remained confined within the summit crater at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Eruptions began at the north vent of Halemaumau Crater after midnight, with lava fountains starting at 6:35 a.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. By mid-morning, lava was also flowing from the south vent and a third vent between them. Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes globally, is on Hawaii Island, roughly 200 miles (320 kilometers) south of Honolulu, located on Oahu.

Nigeria has imposed a temporary ban on the export of raw shea nuts, a key ingredient in cosmetic products, as part of a strategy to strengthen its domestic processing industry and increase its share of the global skincare market. Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the six-month ban, which will be reviewed afterward. The goal, he said, is to shift Nigeria from being an exporter of raw materials to a major producer of refined shea butter, oils, and other skincare derivatives. Nigeria joins several other West African nations, such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Togo, Ivory Coast, and Ghana, which have also restricted shea nut exports in recent years. "This isn’t about blocking trade but about adding value," Shettima explained. He said the move is intended to secure raw materials for local manufacturers, increase income, and create jobs for rural communities. Shea nuts, when processed, produce shea butter, widely used in lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers."It's a crucial ingredient for skincare, especially as people seek non-toxic products," said Zainab Bashir, a dermatologist based in Abuja. Although Nigeria supplies about 40% of the global raw shea nut output, it holds just 1% of the $6.5 billion global market for finished shea-based products, according to Shettima. This policy follows the recent launch of a large shea butter processing facility in Niger State, which officials described as among the biggest in Africa. Government officials believe the export ban could generate $300 million in short-term revenue, with projections reaching $3 billion by 2027 if sustained. However, some analysts say the ban needs to be accompanied by greater investment in domestic processing.Ikemesit Effiong, an analyst at SBM Intelligence, said the policy implies the government sees a supply shortfall, but that simply banning exports may not guarantee that raw shea nuts will stay in the country for local use. The ban also appears to clash with President Bola Tinubu’s pro-market stance. Since taking office, Tinubu has eliminated fuel and electricity subsidies, floated the national currency, and reversed previous import bans, signaling support for a more open economic approach.

With summer holidays in full swing, many travelers are heading to hot and sunny destinations — and taking their electronic devices along. But phones, tablets and other gadgets are highly vulnerable to extreme heat. Southern European nations like Spain, Italy and Greece have been baking under soaring temperatures, while forecasters have issued repeated heat advisories across the United States, particularly in the Southeast. Here’s what device makers and experts say about keeping your electronics cool: What heat does to a phoneMost devices work best within a specific temperature range. Apple says iPhones and iPads are designed for use between 32-95 degrees Fahrenheit (0-35 degrees Celsius). In very hot conditions, Apple warns, battery life may be permanently shortened. Phones also tend to warm up during wireless charging, large downloads, video streaming or other power-intensive tasks. Samsung notes this is normal and does not affect long-term performance. What happens if it gets too hotIf a phone becomes uncomfortably hot, Samsung recommends stopping use immediately. An overheating iPhone will display a warning message until it cools down. Android devices show a similar alert, dimming the screen, closing apps and pausing charging. Eco-Friendly Online Shopping: What You Need to Know What not to doExperts advise against leaving devices in hot cars or in direct sunlight for long. Apple also warns against using features like GPS navigation, graphic-heavy games or the camera in high heat. Google, maker of Pixel phones, cautions against running resource-heavy apps while charging in hot weather. How to keep your gear coolThe most effective solution is to turn off the device completely. “Even background processes can generate heat,” said experts at British electronics chain Currys. “A full shutdown helps it cool faster.” Removing protective cases can also help, since they trap heat. Devices should be kept out of direct sunlight and placed somewhere cool — like an air-conditioned room or in front of a fan. But avoid overdoing it. “Never put your device in the fridge or freezer, as condensation can cause water damage,” Currys warned. Source: Agency 

The weeklong printmaking workshop and exhibition 'From Darkness to Light: When Guanlan Meets Dhaka' recently concluded at the Safiuddin Ahmed Printmaking Studio in the capital's Dhanmondi, with leading Bangladeshi artists praising the initiative for nurturing young talents. Eminent artist Professor Rafiqun Nabi attended the closing ceremony on Wednesday evening as the chief guest, while noted artist and freedom fighter Professor Abul Barq Alvi was present as the special guest. Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art Professor and renowned printmaker Professor Anisuzzaman Anis, who conducted the workshop, also joined the ceremony, which was presided over by artist Ahmed Nazir Khokon, founder of the Safiuddin Shilpalay. The workshop, held from August 20 to 27 with the participation of selected students from different universities and 40 artists chosen by Safiuddin Ahmed Printmaking Studio, ended with a certificate distribution ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, Professor Rafiqun Nabi reflected on the evolution of woodcut practice in Bangladesh. Sharing his own journey as a printmaker, he said, “In the early days, there were limited opportunities for printmaking training, and we had to overcome many obstacles." "Fortunately, I learned from various workshops at home and abroad. I hope the participants of this training will continue to practice not only academically but also at home as much as possible,” Prof Nabi said. Professor Abul Barq Alvi congratulated the participants, urged them to pursue regular practice, and lauded the activities of the Safiuddin Ahmed Printmaking Studio. Trainer of the workshop, Anisuzzaman Anis told UNB, “On the occasion of master artist Safiuddin Ahmed’s birth anniversary, the Safiuddin Shilpalay has previously organized a number of artistic initiatives. I have also been part of many workshops at different places, including Cosmos Atelier-71 of Gallery Cosmos. Recently, I visited Guanlan in China, and earlier in Japan, and I studied various aspects of woodcut art." "Inspired by those experiences, I have guided 40 participants from across the country, who worked here from August 20 to 27; and I only demonstrated the techniques, but they blended their own creativity into the work, which deeply impressed me. I believe more such workshops should be held so that aspiring artists can truly benefit,” Professor Anis told UNB. Coordinator of the workshop, artist Shakil Mazumder, told UNB, “In this workshop organized by Safiuddin Shilpalay marking the birth anniversary of master artist Safiuddin Ahmed, Professor Anis Sir taught us woodcut printmaking in a very friendly way. We worked for seven days, and on the last day we arranged the closing exhibition to demonstrate the 40 artworks of our 40 participants from Dhaka and other parts of the country, and the entire workshop was free of cost.” Chair of the event and Safiuddin Shilpalay founder Ahmed Nazir Khokon thanked the esteemed dignitaries of art alongside Professor Anisuzzaman Anis and all participants before formally concluding the programme. The event was also joined by Ekushey Padak-winning artist Kanak Chanpa Chakma, DU Faculty of Fine Art teachers Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman, Abdullah Al Bashir, Juton Chandra Roy, Asmita Alam Shammy, Mohammad Kamal Uddin, artist Shahanoor Mamun, and Gallery Cosmos Artistic Director Sourav Chowdhury, among others.

The High Commission of India in Dhaka, through its Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC), on Thursday organized a cultural evening titled ‘Nazrul Sandhya’ at the ICC in Gulshan to commemorate the 49th death anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The programme drew a large audience, including eminent artistes, cultural dignitaries, Nazrul scholars, youth delegates and art enthusiasts, who together paid homage to the 'Bidrohi Kobi' (Rebel Poet). High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, in his address, reflected on the multifaceted legacy of Nazrul, describing him as “an icon of the shared cultural connection between India and Bangladesh.” Recollecting Nazrul’s role in India’s freedom struggle, Verma said, “His poems stirred a subjugated nation, awakened its soul and inspired an entire country to break free of the chains of colonial oppression.” Highlighting Nazrul’s relevance in today’s world, he added, “He is an ardent symbol of youthfulness, whose appeal for inclusive, plural humanism transcends national boundaries. He is a philosopher whose message of equality and harmony continues to inspire the world — a lighthouse of our collective conscience.” In her welcome remarks, IGCC Director Ann Mary George underscored the enduring cultural bonds between India and Bangladesh. She reaffirmed IGCC’s role as a hub for cultural exchange, noting its commitment to celebrating literary and artistic figures like Kazi Nazrul Islam who embody the region’s shared heritage. The highlight of the evening was the performances by acclaimed Nazrul Sangeet exponents Dr Chanda Chakraborty and Shahid Kabir Polash, whose soulful renditions brought alive the revolutionary zeal and lyrical beauty of Nazrul’s timeless works. Dr Chakraborty, an award-winning artiste and scholar, is an Assistant Professor at Government Music College and a senior instructor at leading institutions including Bangladesh Nazrul Institute. With a Ph.D. on Nazrul’s devotional music from Dhaka University, she has performed widely at home and abroad, receiving honors such as the National Nazrul Samaj Padak (2009) and Channel i Best Performance in Nazrul Sangeet (2018). Shahid Kabir Polash, a foremost Nazrul Sangeet and classical vocalist, trained under legendary maestros Sohrab Hossain and Sudhin Das. A ‘special grade’ artiste of Bangladesh Television and Betar, he has performed on prestigious stages internationally, including Nazrul Mela in Churulia, India. He has also been recognized with awards including the Citycell-Channel i Music Award (2010). Their renditions — from fiery verses of Bidrohi to Nazrul’s devotional and romantic compositions — deeply moved the audience, reaffirming the timelessness of his art. The evening served as a solemn musical tribute to Nazrul Islam (1899–1976) — poet, musician, freedom fighter and philosopher — whose writings championed freedom, equality and communal harmony, inspiring generations and symbolizing the shared cultural heritage of Bangladesh and India.

At Eckerd College in Florida, dogs, cats and other animals are as much a part of campus life as the students themselves. The liberal arts school allows pets to live in dormitories, giving students daily companionship that eases stress, anxiety and homesickness. “It’s like I’m not even there,” said senior Sophie Nocera, who often hears greetings for her Border collie, Zuko, while walking across campus. “People know pets’ names better than their owners.” Across the U.S., more colleges are opening dorms to pets, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to Stephens College in Missouri. School officials say the policy not only supports student well-being but also helps them build community. Federal law already requires colleges to allow service and emotional support animals. But a growing number of institutions now go further, setting specific guidelines for pets. MIT, for instance, permits only cats in preapproved dorm spaces. At Eckerd, pets must have been part of students’ homes for at least six months before moving to campus, and aggressive or venomous animals are barred. The University of Northern Colorado allows dogs and cats up to 40 pounds in select residence halls, with students limited to one pet. “It’s a marker of adulthood — being able to care for another living being,” said housing director Jediah Cummins. Nursing major Molly Cheer said she chose the school partly for its pet-friendly policy. “Whenever I’m stressed, I pick up my cat Louie, and it helps,” she said. Vermont’s dog mountain honors the bond between humans and their pets Eckerd has hosted animals ranging from rabbits, ferrets and turtles to snakes and even a tarantula since 1973. For Nocera, Zuko provided support when she struggled with changing her major. “No matter what, I knew we’d go to the dog park the next day. That stability made a difference,” she said. Other colleges report similar experiences. At Washington & Jefferson College in Pennsylvania, administrators say pets have helped shy students integrate into campus life. Some institutions charge pet fees, require roommate agreements or mandate liability insurance, while ensuring pets are vaccinated and restrained in public. Eckerd even includes pets in graduation ceremonies. Nocera plans to walk across the stage with Zuko in his own pet commencement. “For those it suits, it’s so worth it,” she said. Source: Agency 

The nation on Wednesday is observing the 49th death anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, recalling his undying legacy of defiance against injustice as well as his profound messages of love, humanity, and equality. The poet, lyricist, composer and revolutionary voice of Bengali literature and music, affectionately known as ‘Dukhhu Mia,’ passed away on 12 Bhadra, 1383 (August 29, 1976) at the then PG Hospital (now BSMMU) in Dhaka. Various socio-cultural organisations chalked out elaborate programmes to mark the day, including discussions, prayers and cultural events. National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam Institute organised a discussion titled 'Mrityunjayi Nazrul' alongside Hamd-Naat recitations and doa mahfil. Bangla Academy paid tributes at the poet’s grave and arranged solo lectures and cultural performances. National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 126th birth anniversary today In a Facebook post, the Nazrul Institute said, “On the morning of the 49th death anniversary of our National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, we gathered beside his grave to pray for his eternal peace. The Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Nazrul Institute jointly offered prayers, attended by Secretary Md Mofidur Rahman and Additional Secretary Abdullah Khan. The dua was conducted by Nazrul Institute’s Executive Director Md Latiful Islam Shibli, who prayed that tomorrow’s Bangladesh becomes the egalitarian, fraternal, and harmonious nation envisioned by the poet.” Although Nazrul’s creative period lasted only 23 years, his literary works — poems, songs, essays and novels — remain timeless treasures of Bengali literature, inspiring generations in their struggles against exploitation and oppression. At the same time, he is revered as the eternal poet of love. Following Bangladesh’s independence, Nazrul was brought to Dhaka with his family on May 24, 1972, with special permission from the Government of India. He was accorded the status of National Poet, provided state accommodation in Dhanmondi, awarded an honorary D.Litt. by Dhaka University in 1974, and granted Bangladeshi citizenship in 1976. The same year, he was honoured with the Ekushey Padak. Despite being popularly revered as the National Poet for decades, no official gazette notification had been issued until this year. In January 2025, the interim government formally declared Kazi Nazrul Islam as Bangladesh’s 'National Poet' effective from May 4, 1972, finally granting him long-awaited state recognition.

A friend of mine, age 60, is considering early retirement after a long career. He has saved and invested wisely, but burnout has prompted him to think seriously about stepping back. While his financial advisor has assured him of his portfolio’s strength, the bigger questions extend beyond money — to lifestyle choices. Here are four key decisions he faced: 1. Will you continue to work in some capacity?Working part-time or in a reduced role can delay portfolio withdrawals, extend Social Security benefits, and maintain healthcare coverage until Medicare. My friend chose a 30-hour schedule to balance income, identity, and health. For others, a full break may be necessary. 2. What lifestyle changes will you make?Housing costs, location, and spending habits matter. My friend considered moving to a less expensive region but decided to stay put for now, as his work and social ties remain important. Planning to retire and relocate? Consider a comprehensive strategy 3. Can you be flexible with spending?Adapting spending when markets are down can help portfolios last longer. Flexible strategies often lead to higher lifetime spending than rigid rules like the 4% withdrawal guideline. 4. How do you weigh lifetime spending against leaving a bequest?Some retirees want to maximize spending during their lifetime, while others prioritize leaving money behind. My friend, who has no heirs, values income he can enjoy now rather than preserving assets for later. Source: Agency