United News of Bangladesh

Mangoes, often called the "king of fruits," are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall health, according to a report by asianetnews. Nutrition experts say mangoes are rich in polyphenols, vitamins C and A, minerals, and antioxidants, making them highly beneficial for the human body. The high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants in mangoes help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Mangoes also contain beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, further enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms. The significant amount of vitamin A present in mangoes is known to improve vision and prevent dry eyes. Additionally, antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lutein, found in mangoes, play a crucial role in protecting the eyes from harmful blue light and reducing vision problems associated with aging. Mangoes are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps protect the skin, keeping it youthful and radiant. Most people don’t need extra protein in their diets, say nutritionists Experts highlight that mangoes aid digestion due to the digestive enzymes they contain. Their high fiber content promotes a healthy, balanced gut microbiome and helps prevent constipation. The fruit is also rich in potassium and magnesium, which help stabilize heart rate and regulate blood pressure. Furthermore, the antioxidants and fiber in mangoes assist in lowering LDL or “bad” cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, and protecting blood vessels from inflammation. According to nutritionists, mangoes are especially beneficial for managing hormone-related disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). They are rich in B vitamins, particularly vitamin B6, which helps balance mood, regulate hormonal fluctuations, and reduce oxidative stress. The presence of vitamin B6 and glutamic acid in mangoes also contributes to improving mood, memory, and cognitive function, while helping manage stress, anxiety, and overall mental health. Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Experts say the high nutritional value of mangoes can positively impact mood and energy levels. Vitamin B6, known as a natural mood booster, increases the production of serotonin, often referred to as the "happiness hormone."

The World's 50 Best Beaches platform, renowned for curating coastal destinations across the globe, has unveiled its anticipated 2025 rankings. This latest compilation celebrates the finest shores that blend natural beauty with pristine conditions. Claiming the coveted top spot this year is Italy’s Cala Goloritze, a striking Mediterranean gem. Let’s explore the key highlights and details that earned this idyllic haven global recognition. About Cala Goloritze Beach Tucked along the Baunei Coast on Sardinia’s eastern edge, this breathtaking cove stands apart from the island’s extensive 1,000-mile shoreline. Sardinia is dotted with countless scenic beaches. Among them, this secluded stretch in the Gulf of Orosei’s southern reaches offers a raw, untouched allure that few can rival. Daily visitor numbers are capped at just 250 to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Yet, those who make the effort are rewarded with a scene born from nature’s drama. It includes towering limestone cliffs, crystalline waters, and a dramatic rock spire shaped by a 1960s landslide. Read more: Hong Kong’s Cloud-Covered Kowloon Peak Resembles Mount Fuji, Sparking Tourist Surge Its striking natural features and ecological significance led to official recognition in the early 1990s. First declared a regional natural monument in 1993, it was further honoured with national monument status by 1995. What Makes Cala Goloritze So Special Along Sardinia’s Baunei Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet sapphire seas, one secluded cove rises above the rest for its exceptional character. Framed by a soaring 143-metre limestone pinnacle, the setting combines natural drama with serene clarity. Its waters are so pure they seem almost unreal. This rare harmony of elements sets the area apart, even amid a coastline renowned for its beauty. Preservation remains at the heart of its allure. Stringent conservation policies include limiting footfall, banning motorised access, and barring boats from docking. All these have helped maintain the site’s pristine condition. No roads carve through its landscape, and no unchecked development mars its rugged charm. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers When judges unveiled the beach as the world’s finest, they reflected on how its unspoiled beauty evokes a powerful emotional response. They noted that whether one observes it from the cliffs above or stands at the water’s edge, the experience lingers. Best Season to Visit Travellers hoping to sidestep peak-season crowds would do well to look beyond July and August. These two months, though popular, often bring a surge of visitors that can overwhelm the serenity. For a quieter experience without sacrificing sunshine, June and September offer the perfect compromise. These shoulder months balance mild weather with a calmer atmosphere, allowing the landscape to be appreciated in peace. How to Reach Cala Goloritze Getting to this remote coastal haven takes planning and a fair bit of determination. Its isolation isn’t accidental but a deliberate measure to preserve the purity of its setting. Unlike more accessible beaches, this stretch of Sardinian coastline offers no shortcuts. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated There are only two routes in: a challenging hike or a swim from the sea. Boats are allowed to approach, but only up to 200 metres from the shore. From there, it’s the swimmer’s effort that completes the journey. On land, the journey begins well before the trailhead. Travellers must fly into either Olbia or Cagliari, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Sa Porteddu. That’s where the footpath begins, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The beach itself closes promptly at 5 p.m. Entry is limited and managed strictly. Advance online reservations are essential, as on-the-spot access can’t be guaranteed. The hike takes roughly 90 minutes each way, cutting through rugged terrain that mirrors the untamed character. To reach the shoreline by water, rental services from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese, both nearby ports, provide the most comfortable marine route. Even then, strict regulations prevent motorboat traffic from disturbing the last 200 metres. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte

Dr Sarwar Ali has been appointed as the new President of Chhayanaut, one of Bangladesh’s most prominent cultural organisations, three months after the passing of the legendary cultural activist Sanjida Khatun. Dr Ali, who had been serving as the Executive President, was named President at Chhayanaut's first annual general meeting since Sanjida Khatun's death, held on Friday. Chhayanaut confirmed the selection of Dr Ali as its new President to UNB, and the Facebook page of Chhayanaut also updated the details of the announcement on Saturday. Chhayanaut's executive committee has also been reorganised during the meeting. Khairul Anam Shakil and Partha Tanvir Naved have been named as Vice Presidents, while Laisa Ahmed Lisa continues as General Secretary. The newly formed executive council also features Mofidul Haque, Shyamoli Nasrin Chowdhury, Nahas Khalil, Aminul Kawsar Dipu, Sahana Akhter Rahman Papri, Masuda Nargis Anam Kalpana, Zubair Yusuf, Gautam Sarkar, Jasmine Buli, and Semanti Manjari. Meanwhile, Saeeda Kamal and Ruchira Tabassum Naved have joined the Chhayanaut Board of Trustees, filling the positions left vacant by the recent passing of Nurunnahar Abedin and Sanjida Khatun. Shilpakala Academy hosts ‘Ananda Utsab’ celebrating Eid-ul-Azha Dr Sarwar Ali has been associated with Chhayanaut since 1967. In his professional life, he is a pioneer with his broad experience as a medical practitioner. Currently, Dr Ali serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Renata PLC. He is also serving as the Trustee of the Liberation War Museum, Chairman of the Board of Management at BIRDEM Hospital, and Vice President of the Bangladesh Diabetic Association. Sanjida Khatun, a leading figure in the Bengali cultural movement and Chhayanaut’s longstanding President since 1999, passed away on March 25 this year while undergoing treatment at a hospital in the capital. She had been in declining health for several years. Chhayanaut was founded in 1961 as a bold cultural response to the Pakistani regime’s attempt to suppress Bengali identity. The organisation was born in the wake of the Rabindranath Tagore birth centenary celebrations, which it had carried out despite official restrictions. Chhayanaut’s founding president was poet and activist Sufia Kamal. Following her death in 1999, Sanjida Khatun took over the role and led the organisation for more than two decades.

A Japanese-style diet rich in rice, miso soup and fish may help reduce depressive symptoms, according to a new study by the Japan Institute for Health Security. The research, said to be the first of its kind, suggests that working-age individuals who follow a traditional Japanese diet are less likely to experience depression. According to Kyodo News, the institute assessed the mental health benefits of a classic Japanese diet comprising soy products, cooked vegetables, mushrooms, fish, seaweed and green tea. A modified version that included fruit, fresh vegetables and dairy products was also examined. While previous studies have explored links between the Mediterranean diet — which features vegetables, whole grains, olive oil and fish — and mental health, research focusing on the Japanese diet’s impact on depression has been limited, the institute noted. Don't store these foods at the bottom of the fridge; here's why “Further research is required, but we hope the evidence shown among Japanese people can be used for public health measures in workplaces and areas concerning the prevention of depression,” it said. The self-reported survey involved 12,499 employees from five companies, 88 per cent of whom were men with an average age of 42.5 years. Overall, 30.9 per cent of participants showed signs of depressive symptoms, though those who adhered to a Japanese-style diet were less likely to report such symptoms. The institute said that components of the diet, such as seaweed, soy products and the folic acid in vegetables, may help release neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Omega-3-rich oily fish also has anti-inflammatory benefits, it added.

As the conflict in Sudan grinds on, millions are battling severe food shortages, forcing many to survive on wild plants and weeds. With little else available, families boil these in salted water to stave off hunger. One retired schoolteacher, 60, expressed his gratitude through poetry, praising a plant called Khadija Koro as “a balm in times of fear” that kept him and others alive. Speaking under the condition of anonymity due to security concerns, he is one of nearly 25 million Sudanese now suffering from acute food insecurity, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). The ongoing war, which began in April 2023 between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has devastated the country. More than 20,000 people have died, nearly 13 million have been displaced, and the conflict has sparked what aid agencies are calling the world’s largest hunger emergency. Once considered a global agricultural hub, Sudan now struggles with surging food prices, diminished farmland, and obstructed aid routes. Regions such as Darfur, Kordofan, and the Nuba Mountains are particularly affected, with access severely restricted for aid organizations like the Norwegian Refugee Council. In areas like North Darfur, some residents have reportedly resorted to chewing on coal to quell hunger pains. On Friday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged Sudanese military leader Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan to agree to a week-long ceasefire in El Fasher to allow humanitarian access. While Burhan consented, it remains unclear if the RSF will reciprocate. The retired teacher said that although occasional aid offers brief relief, it is insufficient. His wife and children, living in Obeid, also face high food costs and limited availability. Due to blocked roads and security risks, he is unable to travel to join them. His irregular income from training jobs barely covers essential needs, allowing him to send only around $35 a week to support his family. In other conflict-affected regions, such as South Kordofan, residents say living conditions are dire. Hassan, a resident of Kadugli, described the area as a “prison for civilians,” citing the collapse of food distribution, health care, and basic services due to the RSF siege. He also spoke on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns. Local and international humanitarian groups have reportedly been banned in some conflict zones. With access to food, water, and medicine cut off, desperate civilians are turning to wild vegetation for survival. World Food Programme spokesperson Leni Kinzli confirmed that parts of Khartoum, Gezeira, and much of Darfur are at risk of famine. The WFP assists over 4 million people monthly, with 1.7 million in areas classified as high risk. Despite government claims that famine is not present, the situation remains bleak. Ongoing fighting between government forces, RSF, and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) has made it nearly impossible for aid to reach many regions. In South Darfur’s Nyala region, civilians are attempting to grow crops, but violence and resource shortages hinder agriculture. Displaced resident Hawaa Hussein said she and her family of eight receive food parcels every two months but often rely on community support to meet their needs. "It’s hard to eat when your neighbor is starving," she said. At El Serif camp, where nearly 49,000 displaced people now live, only about 5% of food needs are being met, according to camp leader Abdalrahman Idris. More than 5,000 new arrivals have come since the war began, many fleeing violence in the capital. Further north, in Zamzam camp near El Fasher, famine and violence have created catastrophic conditions. An aid worker, who fled the camp recently, reported that basic goods are unaffordable — sugar sells for 20,000 Sudanese pounds (roughly $33), and soap for 10,000 pounds (about $17). Several vulnerable residents, including the elderly and pregnant women, have reportedly died due to hunger and the lack of medical care. Describing the camp as “a place where people wait to die,” the aid worker said the humanitarian situation continues to worsen. Still, the retired teacher clings to hope, ending his poem with these lines:“When people clashed and death filled the city squares, you, Koro, were a symbol of life and a title of loyalty.”

The Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Dhaka, in collaboration with North South University (NSU), recently hosted Kosovo Film Day 2025, a landmark cultural and academic event that drew wide acclaim and an impressive turnout. Held to commemorate the 26th Anniversary of Kosovo’s Liberation Day (12 June 1999), the event highlighted the power of film to reflect history, share human stories, and build bridges between nations. The university auditorium was filled for both sessions of the screenings, with more than 250 guests attending each session. The audience included representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, officials from various government departments, members of the diplomatic corps, honorary consuls, representatives of civil society organisations, business leaders and officers from the Diplomatic Security Division, as well as NSU faculty and students. In his opening remarks, Lulzim Pllana, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Bangladesh, underscored the deep significance of the event: “Kosovo’s journey to independence has been shaped by tremendous challenges, but also by an unshakable belief in peace, democracy, and human rights. Through art and education, we honour those who sacrificed and continue to build bridges of friendship.” Three critically acclaimed Kosovar films were screened at the event: Hive (Zgjoi) – directed by Blerta Basholli, based on the true story of Fahrije Hoti, a war widow who challenges patriarchal norms by establishing a small business in post-war Kosovo. The film received global acclaim, winning all major awards in its category at the Sundance Film Festival. 'Alchemy of Light': Gallery Cosmos hosts workshop by Juton Chandra Roy Cold November (Nëntor i Ftohtë) – directed by Ismet Sijarina, set during the civil resistance of the 1990s, it portrays the inner turmoil of a civil servant caught between integrity and survival. The Hero (Heroi) – directed by Luan Kryeziu, a post-war psychological drama that examines trauma, identity, and the often-silenced burden of survival for returning veterans. Each film provided a compelling lens into Kosovo’s past and present, offering the audience a rare cinematic glimpse into its social fabric and resilience. During the event, Ambassador Pllana also highlighted the evolving academic cooperation between Kosovo and Bangladesh. NSU is in the process of formalising academic partnerships with the University for Business and Technology (UBT) and AAB College in Kosovo, aiming to establish joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and collaborative initiatives in media and cultural studies. Prior to the screenings, Ambassador Pllana was formally received by Prof Dr Abdur Rob Khan, Acting Vice-Chancellor of NSU. Discussions focused on the mutual commitment to enhancing educational ties and exploring future exchanges that empower young people in both countries, and Professor Khan praised the Embassy’s initiative and expressed his institution’s willingness to further strengthen bilateral academic and cultural ties. “Events like Kosovo Film Day deepen our understanding of each other’s identities and histories. They open doors for long-term collaboration rooted in mutual respect and shared values,” he noted. The Embassy of Kosovo extends its sincere gratitude to the faculty, staff, and students of North South University, whose support made the event a remarkable success. Their enthusiasm, engagement, and curiosity brought added meaning to the occasion. Kosovo Film Day 2025 reaffirmed the transformative potential of cultural diplomacy and set a promising foundation for continued academic and people-to-people cooperation between Kosovo and Bangladesh.

Gallery Cosmos, the acclaimed artistic wing and printmaking studio of the Cosmos Foundation, has launched a three-day workshop titled ‘Alchemy of Light’, focusing on the historical Cyanotype and Gum Bichromate techniques. The workshop is being held at Cosmos Atelier71, Cosmos Centre, Malibagh, Dhaka, from June 27 to 29, between 10 am and 5 pm daily. Inaugurated on Friday, June 27 at 10 am, the workshop is being led by acclaimed artist and educator Juton Chandra Roy, Lecturer at the Department of Printmaking, Faculty of Fine Art, Dhaka University. It brings together 10 Bangladeshi artists from diverse backgrounds for an immersive experience in alternative photographic printmaking, blending Cyanotype and Gum Bichromate Techniques. The opening ceremony was graced by Gallery Cosmos Director Tehmina Enayet, along with eminent artist and Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art Professor Dr Anisuzzaman, DU Faculty of Fine Art Assistant Professor at the Department of Drawing and Painting and Brihatta Art Foundation Co-founder Bishwajit Goswami, Gallery Cosmos Artistic Director Sourav Chowdhury, and the participating artists: Rashed Sukhon, Naznine Akter, Alia Kamal, Farhana Islam, Sheikh Nahid Hasan, Sharmin Rahman Khan, Sumaita Afrin Shupty, Arup Mandal, Shuvra Talukder, and Bristy Pathan. Speaking at the event, Tehmina Enayet reaffirmed the gallery's commitment to multidisciplinary experimentation. “Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier 71 consistently organize unique and diverse initiatives. This time, we are excited to introduce this unique workshop on Cyanotype and Gum Bichromate—unconventional mediums that allow for vibrant, playful expressions. We believe audiences will enjoy these creations as much as the participants enjoyed making them,” she said, while acknowledging the support of the instructors and fondly remembered the late eminent artist Kalidas Karmakar, under whose vision the gallery was founded. Professor Anisuzzaman praised the workshop’s artistic merit and expressed his longstanding association with the gallery. “My relationship with Gallery Cosmos goes back many years, and I’ve had the pleasure of conducting two workshops here. Juton, the instructor, is my direct student - and I’ve witnessed his dedication to exploring new media, enriched further by his studies at Santiniketan. The works being produced here are a testament to his growth and vision,” he said. ‘Echoes of Existence’: Tarek Amin’s 2nd solo exhibition opens in London Highlighting the novelty of the medium, Bishwajit Goswami said, “This is a very engaging workshop where two techniques are being integrated in creative ways. While Cyanotype is somewhat familiar in our local context, Gum Bichromate remains relatively unknown. As Juton is both a printmaker and educator, and trained in these methods at Santiniketan where they are taken very seriously, this workshop offers an excellent opportunity to learn something new. While we usually focus on image creation, today we are delving into the process behind it—which is equally vital and rewarding. It’s encouraging to see young, emerging artists enjoying this collaborative experience. Gallery Cosmos has always supported such distinctive initiatives, with a strong setup and facilities.” Workshop facilitator Juton Chandra Roy elaborated on the vision behind the workshop, stating: “This workshop stems from the ongoing academic dialogue around alternative art practices, which are crucial. While traditional printmaking often depends on lab-based techniques using specialized tools and chemicals, access to such setups for emerging artists becomes limited after their graduation, and this pushes many artists to explore alternative media.”

Olga Michael, a Yup’ik woman from a remote Alaska Native village, has been declared the first female Orthodox saint from North America, honoured for her compassion, humility, and lifelong service to others. Known as a midwife, mother of 13, and spiritual guide to many, Olga lived her entire life in Kwethluk, a small village of around 800 people in southwestern Alaska. As the wife of an Orthodox priest, she was also regarded as a "matushka," or spiritual mother within her community. Following her death from cancer in 1979 at age 63, stories of her kindness and devotion spread across Alaska and beyond, with many reporting visions and dreams of her, even among those who never met her. She has now been officially canonised as "St. Olga of Kwethluk, Matushka of All Alaska" after a grand ceremony in her home village. "She was just my mom," said her daughter, Helen Larson, reflecting on the outpouring of reverence for her late mother. "But now, she belongs to everyone — she’s everybody's helper." A significant moment for the Church The sainthood of St. Olga holds special meaning for both women and Indigenous communities, particularly in an Orthodox tradition historically led by men. 18th century wooden boat discovered off an old Croatian port Metropolitan Tikhon, head of the Orthodox Church in America, called her canonisation a reminder that "the path to holiness is open to everyone — male or female, rich or poor, young or old." Carrie Frederick Frost, a scholar on women in Orthodoxy, noted that St. Olga's sainthood is especially meaningful because she was a layperson, mother, and grandmother — not a martyr or a nun like many other female saints. Her reputation as a source of comfort for women experiencing abuse, miscarriage, or loss reflects her deep empathy, shaped by her own hardships, including losing five of her children during their early years. A historic canonisation ceremony Hundreds gathered for St. Olga's glorification ceremony, with visitors travelling from across Alaska and beyond. Some arrived by motorboat from nearby communities, while others flew in from distant states and countries, journeying along the Kuskokwim River, vital to the Yup’ik people's subsistence traditions. Metropolitan Tikhon led the ceremonies, greeted by villagers as chants and incense filled the air under Alaska's solstice sun. Inside the small Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, hymns in the Yup’ik language celebrated her life, with many worshippers crowding inside, while others stood outside to listen. Prayers hailed her as a healer of the wounded, a protector of mothers, and a comforter to those suffering heartbreak. Afterward, many approached her open casket to pay their respects. A family's reflections For relatives like Wiz Ruppert, who returned to Kwethluk for the occasion, St. Olga’s sainthood felt both surreal and fitting. "She was always so kind and generous," Ruppert recalled. Larson, her daughter, remembered how people would visit their home seeking advice or comfort. “I’d watch them arrive, heavy with sorrow, and leave lighter after tea and conversation,” she said. Alaska’s unique place in Orthodoxy Alaska holds deep roots in Orthodox Christianity, dating back to Russian missionaries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, many Orthodox priests in Alaska, including more than a dozen from Kwethluk, are of Native heritage. Health tips: eat these four foods regularly to keep blood pressure under control St. Olga is the third Alaska Native saint, a reflection of the church's integration with Indigenous communities. A debate over her resting place Her remains were exhumed in late 2024 and now rest in Kwethluk’s church, where pilgrims can visit. Though there were initial discussions about relocating her relics to Anchorage, village residents opposed the move, wishing to keep their spiritual mother close. Kwethluk, only accessible by river or air, is expected to become a significant pilgrimage destination. Plans are underway to build a new church and cultural centre in her honour. Celebrating faith in their own language During the glorification, visitors were hosted by local families and shared meals featuring traditional Alaska Native foods like walrus meat and smoked fish. For many, the ceremony marked a spiritual milestone. "Today, we sang hymns for a Yup’ik woman, in our language, about a life we understand," said Nicholai Joekay of Bethel, who knew St. Olga's family. "Today, God felt closer to all of us," he added. Source: With inputs from agency     

What began as a curious alteration to a local hillside quickly spiralled into a nationwide stir. A summit, once unassuming, now draws attention for its unexpected resemblance to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. The transformation, triggered by a smoky grey cloud, sparked a wave of online amusement and confusion. Some locals, too, have remarked on the uncanny similarity, especially when the peak is veiled in cloud. At the centre of it all stands Kowloon Peak. Let's get to know how this phenomenon came to be and how tourists have responded to this spectacle. A Viral View from Quarry Bay From the corner of Healthy Street East and King's Road in Quarry Bay, an unexpected spectacle took shape. This single vantage point offered the only angle precise enough to capture the illusion in full – Kowloon Peak appearing as a snow-capped giant. It was here that the now-famous photographs were taken, just as drifting clouds brushed the summit. The moment aligned perfectly, framing the peak in a way that mimicked the serene silhouette of Mt Fuji. Playfully nicknamed the ‘snow cap matcha volcano’ by amused onlookers, the hill's uncanny resemblance quickly lit up social media. As photos made their rounds online, intrigue followed. The scene, complete with urban foreground and misty ridgeline, lacked only a convenience store to complete the Fuji-like composition. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers Compelled by the viral snapshots, several residents made their way to Quarry Bay. Not just to see the hill itself but to stand where the camera did. A similar moment unfolded in Thailand last year. A photo of Khao Ok Talu beside a 7-Eleven drew comparisons to the iconic Lawson snapshot beneath Mt Fuji. About Kowloon Peak Locally known as Fei Ngo Shan, meaning ‘Soaring Goose Mountain’, this peak rises prominently from the northeast edge of New Kowloon. At 1,975 feet, it claims the title of the highest point in the Kowloon region. Tucked within Ma On Shan Country Park, its rugged slopes straddle the border between Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin districts. Two of Hong Kong’s well-known hiking routes, the Wilson Trail and the MacLehose Trail, cut across its terrain. The route makes a favoured challenge for avid trekkers. Geologically, the peak is built on a foundation of volcanic rocks, particularly tuffs, with solid granite forming its lower reaches. Its natural formation, layered and textured, lends it a raw, untamed character rarely mirrored in artificial landscapes. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated Echoes of Mount Fuji's Symmetry Veiled in mist and rising behind the city’s frame of glass and concrete, Kowloon Peak appears almost sculpted. The way the cloud clings to its summit lends it a hushed, snow-draped elegance. From this perspective, its form takes on a quiet grandeur, unexpectedly reminiscent of a distant volcano. In contrast, Mount Fuji presents a near-perfect cone, its snowy peak often floating above soft horizons. Where Fuji looms with serene isolation, Kowloon Peak surprises, emerging from urban chaos with a momentary stillness. It doesn’t mimic Fuji’s symmetry, yet echoes its silhouette in a fleeting, almost cinematic illusion. Though vastly humbler in scale and fame, the misty peak carves out its own quiet allure. It may lack the majestic sweep and spiritual weight of Mount Fuji, but it doesn’t seek comparison. Instead, it captivates in its own right—less a rival, more a reminder that even modest peaks can inspire awe. Reactions Surrounding Mount Fuji of Hong Kong What began as a light-hearted post on Threads soon rippled across social media, pulling in thousands of viewers intrigued by the resemblance. The buzz caught fire quickly. Some viewers found humour in the comparison, suggesting that all it needed was a denser veil of clouds. Others embraced the idea that this ‘Hong Kong version’ had its own appeal, a kind of localised charm distinct from its Japanese counterpart. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte However, several visitors who came after seeing the picturesque images confessed to a sense of disappointment. For them, the so-called ‘mountain’ was little more than an ordinary hill. Some lamented how easy it is to be misled by carefully framed photographs. It pointed to this episode as yet another example of online visuals setting unrealistic expectations. Despite the divided opinions, the view did manage to impress a few passersby. Some expressed genuine appreciation for the scenery, calling it unexpectedly beautiful. Others stopped to capture the moment themselves, aware of the growing online attention. A number of visitors returned to the same vantage point in hopes of replicating the famed composition. Not all succeeded; many missed the fleeting cloud formations that gave the illusion its power. For Hikers, It's More Than Just A View Multiple trails snake their way toward the summit, with routes branching off from both Jat's Incline and Fei Ngo Shan Road. These provide varying levels of challenge, but one, in particular, casts a long shadow over the others. An infamous ascent that has come to be known as Suicide Cliff. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Despite its ominous name, the moniker does not stem from tragedy but rather from the sheer danger posed by its terrain. This vertical scramble, beginning from Clear Water Bay Road, isn’t a traditional hiking path. It’s an exposed rock face that demands agility, courage, and luck. The risk is not theoretical; the climb has been marked by real peril, including accidents and fatalities. One dramatic incident even saw 160 firefighters deployed in a large-scale rescue when two tourists found themselves stranded. For most hikers, however, the thrill of reaching the peak need not involve danger. Fei Ngo Shan Road offers a far gentler approach, one that rewards effort with breathtaking views, not unnecessary risk. Final Words Hong Kong's clouded Kowloon Peak, as seen from Quarry Bay, drew comparisons to Mount Fuji for its misty silhouette. The image sparked mixed reactions online – some were amused, others felt misled. Hikers, however, admire it for the thrill of Suicide Cliff and its challenging trails. Amid Hong Kong’s dense cityscape, the peak offers a rare blend of rugged beauty and quiet reflection. It proves that even in the chaos of urban life, moments of natural grace can still hold meaning. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

A sunken 18th-century boat has been discovered by chance near the majestic stone walls of Croatia's medieval city of Dubrovnik. Ivan Bukelic was working on a water pipeline in Dubrovnik's old port back in April when he found a wooden structure buried in the seabed. “I can now say I discovered a boat at the Old Town Dubrovnik,” Bukelic, who is a diver and undersea builder from Dubrovnik, said, reports AP. He added the vessel was some 60-80 centimetres (23-31 inches) under the sea bottom. A key trade port in the Adriatic Sea in medieval times, Dubrovnik has been declared a UNESCO protected heritage site. It attracts huge crowds of tourists, especially during the summer, and is also known as a filming site for HBO’s Game of Thrones series. South Korea's last circus ‘Dongchoon’ holds up as it marks centennial The remains of the boat in Dubrovnik's old port have been protected for further examination. “We still cannot speak of the type of vessel or its dimensions but we can say for certain, based on the results of radiocarbon analysis that it was from late 18th century,” marine archaeologist Irena Radić Rossi said. Radić Rossi said the aim is to continue with the research in cooperation with Croatia's Ministry of Culture: “We must protect it for the future.”