United News of Bangladesh

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has confirmed that he will make a cameo appearance in his son Aryan Khan’s upcoming directorial debut, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*. The Netflix series, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, marks Aryan’s first project as a director and has been generating buzz since its official announcement on February 3 this year. SRK, who returned to his popular ‘Ask SRK’ session on X (formerly Twitter) after a long break, responded to a fan asking if he would appear in Aryan’s project. “Lots of lovely friends from the industry have participated in Aryan’s series. They’ve been very gracious and loving toward him. Main toh hun hi… Haq se!” he wrote. When another fan sought his reaction to Aryan’s work as a director, Shah Rukh said: “It’s very good. You all see and decide… but it’s very entertaining, wacky, and emotional. Honest review!” The series, co-created by Bilal Siddiqi and Manav Chauhan, follows an ambitious outsider and his friends as they navigate the larger-than-life yet uncertain world of Bollywood. Aryan has also contributed to the writing alongside the co-creators. Param Sundari faces backlash over Church scene Although the release date is yet to be announced, reports suggest the series may feature cameos by actors including Bobby Deol and Ranbir Kapoor. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan recently won his first National Film Award. He bagged the Best Actor title at the 71st National Film Awards for his performance in Jawan, which followed the blockbuster success of Pathaan. Both films performed strongly at the box office, with Jawan earning him the prestigious award. Source: NDTV 

Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), in collaboration with the Bangladesh Hawaiian Guitar Shilpi Parishad (BHGSP), hosted a captivating musical programme titled 'An Evening of Hawaiian Guitar' on Saturday at its Auditorium Nouvelle Vague in the capital’s Dhanmondi. The evening enthralled audiences with soulful performances by 14 skilled artists, who presented a diverse repertoire of classical, folk and contemporary compositions. Through their signature slide melodies and soothing tonal beauty, the performers highlighted the instrument’s versatility and cultural depth. Beshi Joss dreams of taking Bangladeshi guitars and drums global Rashed Ahmed, Chief News Editor of Maasranga Television, attended the event as the chief guest. The programme was presided over by Guitar Guru Md Hasanur Rahman Bachchu, president of BHGSP. Founded in 1992, the Bangladesh Hawaiian Guitar Shilpi Parishad has been at the forefront of popularising the Hawaiian guitar in Bangladesh.  Its roots go back to 1990 when the National Hawaiian Guitar Festival Council, with support from the Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts (BAFA), organised a landmark three-day festival featuring noted guitarists including Panna Ahmed, Enamul Kabir, Akram Hossain, Syed Lutful Haque, Hasanur Rahman Bacchu, and Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Bidhu. BHGSP has since then continued its efforts to inspire appreciation for the Hawaiian guitar, nurture emerging talents, and foster cultural harmony through concerts, workshops and collaborations.

Tristan Rogers, known for his iconic role as Robert Scorpio on ABC’s “General Hospital,” has died at the age of 79, less than a month after making a special appearance on the show. “The entire ‘General Hospital’ family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers' passing,” said executive producer Frank Valentini. “Tristan captivated our fans for 45 years, and Port Charles will not be the same without him or Robert Scorpio.” Born in Melbourne, Australia, Rogers began his career in his early twenties as a drummer in a rock band. After the band disbanded, he turned to commercial work, modeling, and eventually acting. He moved to Los Angeles to pursue Hollywood roles and landed a two-day part on “General Hospital” in 1980. His character, initially called “CK8,” was later named Robert Scorpio, becoming a long-running fixture on the show. How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars Scorpio’s on-again, off-again romance with Holly Sutton, played by Emma Samms, and storylines with spy Anna Devane, played by Finola Hughes, remained fan favorites. Scorpio and Devane shared a daughter, Robin (Kimberly McCullough). In Rogers’ final episode in July, it was revealed his character was battling lung cancer. Rogers’ other acting credits include “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “The Young & the Restless,” and “Studio City,” which earned him a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series. He is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, a daughter, and a son.   Source: Agency  

Legendary American thrash metal band Megadeth announced Thursday that their upcoming album will be their last, and they plan to launch a farewell tour in 2026. Founder and frontman Dave Mustaine said the timing allows the band to retire “on top” after decades of global success. “Most musicians don’t get to go out on their own terms… I have traveled the world and made millions of fans. The hardest part is saying goodbye to them,” he said. BTS’ ‘Dynamite’ ranks 34th on Apple Music’s decade list Details on the album title, release date, and remaining tour stops have yet to be disclosed. Mustaine urged fans to celebrate the band’s legacy, highlighting their influence on guitar music and the metal genre. The announcement followed a teaser post on Wednesday reading, “The end is near…” Megadeth was formed in 1983 after Mustaine’s departure from Metallica and released their debut album, Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!, in 1985.   Source: Agency

Entertainment lovers have a packed week ahead with a mix of theatrical releases and new shows on OTT platforms. From thrilling mysteries to fun reality shows, there’s something for every viewer. In theatres, Tribanadhari Barbarik (Aug 22) blends myth and mystery under Mohan Srivatsa’s direction, starring Motta Rajendran, Sanchi Rai and Vasishta N. Simha. OTT platforms are bringing diverse content: Netflix premieres Aema (Aug 22), a 1980s K-drama about two friends making a controversial film, and Bon Appétit, Your Majesty (Aug 23), a time-travel romance featuring chef Yeon Ji-young in the Joseon era. Twelve (Aug 23, Disney+) follows 12 angels on Earth fighting evil, each reflecting a zodiac sign. Hostage (Aug 21, Netflix) offers a gripping political thriller, while Long Story Short (Aug 22, Netflix) explores a dysfunctional family in animated form. The documentary The Truth About Jussie Smollett? (Aug 22, Netflix) revisits the actor’s controversial case. Gold Rush Gang (Aug 21, Netflix) delivers a post-WWII Western adventure. Jolly LLB 3 Teaser: Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi in Hilarious Jolly vs Jolly Reality fans can tune in to Bigg Boss Season 19 (Aug 24, JioHotstar), with Salman Khan returning as host and contestants including Gautami Kapoor, Dheeraj Dhoopar and Gaurav Taneja. Peacemaker Season 2 (Aug 22, JioHotstar) continues the DC Universe saga with John Cena reprising his role. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Dooars’ biodiversity in a new documentary directed by Shaon Pritam Baral, narrated by Dia Mirza, highlighting red pandas, one-horned rhinos and more. Source: Agency 

South Korea’s Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a 30 million won ($21,600) damages claim by an American composer who alleged that Pinkfong, a South Korean children’s content company, plagiarized his version of “Baby Shark,” ending a six-year legal dispute over the globally popular children’s song. The court upheld lower court rulings from 2021 and 2023, which found no evidence that Pinkfong infringed Jonathan Wright’s, also known as Johnny Only, copyright. Wright had recorded his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfong’s, but both were based on a traditional folk melody widely used in U.S. children’s summer camps. South Korean prosecutors move to arrest jailed ex-President Yoon’s wife The judges ruled that Wright’s version did not significantly differ from the original melody to qualify as a protected creative work, and that Pinkfong’s song contained clear distinctions. The Supreme Court emphasized that the decision reaffirms established principles regarding derivative works based on folk tunes. “The Supreme Court accepts the lower court’s finding that the plaintiff’s song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune to be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work,” the court said. Pinkfong’s “Baby Shark,” released on YouTube in 2015, became a global sensation, with the original video now surpassing 16 billion views and reaching No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. The franchise has generated 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025 and expanded into TV shows, Netflix specials, movies, apps, and international musicals.   Source: Agency

Beyoncé has added an Emmy Award to her record 35 Grammy wins, marking another milestone in her career. The pop icon, whose legal name is Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, was among a team of six honored with the award for outstanding costumes for a variety, nonfiction or reality program for the “Beyoncé Bowl” — her Western-themed halftime performance during Netflix’s Christmas Day NFL game between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans. The show, staged in her hometown of Houston, featured the live debut of songs from her Cowboy Carter album. The win is Beyoncé’s first Emmy after 10 previous nominations without success, putting her halfway toward the coveted EGOT status — an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. She still needs the latter two to complete the set. John Abraham credits privacy for “scandal-free” marriage with Priya Runchal The honor was one of several “juried” Emmys announced Tuesday, awarded by committees rather than through the regular voting process. These technical categories, which often include elements of animation and production design, rarely go to household names. The awards will be officially presented at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony next month. Beyoncé is also up for best variety special as producer of “Beyoncé Bowl” and for best direction of a variety special. Her husband, Jay-Z, is competing in the same category as executive producer of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show.

Police announced Tuesday that four individuals have been arrested in connection with a burglary that took place earlier this summer at a Los Angeles residence reportedly owned by actor Brad Pitt.Authorities responded to a break-in on June 25 at the property located in the Los Feliz neighborhood of LA.According to police, the suspects entered through the front window, ransacked the home, and fled with various items.Detective Officer Drake Madison confirmed the arrests but said the suspects’ names might be released later. F1 Movie Review: Brad Pitt’s Epic Racing Drama Drives Box Office Momentum Officials have not disclosed who currently owns or resides in the house, nor have they provided details about the stolen property.Reports indicate Pitt purchased the home for $5.5 million in April 2023, based on information from the commercial real estate site Traded.A spokesperson for Brad Pitt declined to comment on the incident Tuesday.At the time of the burglary, Pitt was abroad on a global promotional tour for his new film, “F1.”   Source: Agency

Popular Bangladeshi actress Jaya Ahsan has recently offered a rare glimpse into her personal and professional life, from upcoming films to relationship revelations, in a conversation blending warmth, humour and candour. In a fun yet emotionally layered interview with Kolkata-based YouTube channel Indulge Express, she discussed her latest Bengali releases, her journey across cinema, her love for animals, and her first public acknowledgment of a long-term relationship. Following her Eid releases 'Taandob' and 'Utshob', Jaya’s two new films - 'Dear Maa' and 'Putul Nacher Iti Kotha' - have recently hit theatres in West Bengal, adding to her remarkable run in both Bangladeshi and Bengali cinema. John Abraham credits privacy for “scandal-free” marriage with Priya Runchal In the August 9 interview with Indulge Express, she discussed her journey through acclaimed works like 'Bishorjan' and 'Konttho', the stories behind her biggest projects, and what’s next in her career. The actress also shared heartwarming anecdotes about her pets and spoke openly about her personal life, revealing for the first time that she has been in a relationship “for many years” with someone outside the film industry.  “Of course there is someone special in my life… We have been together for a long time,” she said, adding that their bond began as a deep friendship. “He tolerates a lot from me. I travel frequently, work here (in Kolkata) for long stretches, but he never complains. We are both very private people.” Asked what she likes most about her partner, Jaya said, “He is very calm… maybe that’s why I like him,” noting that she too is calm by nature.  On marriage, she said she has yet to decide. “I don’t know if or when I will feel the urge to marry. I respect the idea of marriage and living together, but I haven’t decided,” she said, admitting to a certain fear about marriage, possibly stemming from “past relationship experiences.” Jaya also hinted at several upcoming films and web series but chose not to disclose details at this stage, leaving her fans anticipating what’s next. 

International pop icon Madonna has called on Pope Leo XIV to visit Gaza and “bring your light to the children before it’s too late,” urging urgent humanitarian intervention amid the ongoing crisis. The singer made the heartfelt appeal on social media Monday, inspired by her son Rocco’s 25th birthday. Addressing the pontiff directly, she wrote, “Most Holy Father. Please go to Gaza and bring your light to the children before it’s too late. As a mother, I cannot bear to watch their suffering.” Madonna emphasized the shared responsibility toward the children, adding, “The children of the world belong to everyone. You are the only one of us who cannot be denied entry. We need the humanitarian gates to be fully opened to save these innocent children. There is no more time. Please say you will go. Love, Madonna.” She clarified that her message was not meant to blame any side in the conflict. “I am not pointing fingers, placing blame or taking sides. Everyone is suffering. Including the mothers of the hostages. I pray that they are released as well. I am merely trying to do what I can to keep these children from dying of starvation,” she said. Pope Leo XIV recently reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging the global community to respect humanitarian laws and protect civilians. Madonna claims she has COVID-19 antibodies “I once again call for an immediate end to the barbarity of this war and for a peaceful resolution to the conflict,” the pope said last month. Aid workers and doctors have warned that children in Gaza are increasingly dying from malnutrition after months of Israeli blockade and disrupted supply chains. The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has displaced most of Gaza’s roughly 2 million residents and pushed the region toward famine. According to the United Nations, over 5,000 children were diagnosed with malnutrition in Gaza in May, though the actual figure is believed to be higher. Medical professionals face severe shortages of supplies necessary to treat these children. Israel denies allegations of famine or starvation among children, claiming it has provided sufficient food throughout the conflict. The Israeli government accuses Hamas of causing shortages by diverting aid and controlling food distribution.   Source: Agency