Lifestyle
Curtain raises for Sammilita Sangskritik Jote's Amar Ekushey 2024 cultural tribute
Chorusing the slogan “Ekush Mane Matha Noto Na Kora,” Sammilita Sangskritik Jote began its nine-day Amar Ekushey cultural tribute on Thursday.
An inauguration ceremony marking the festivities was held at the Central Shaheed Minar on Thursday afternoon, where the speakers urged the cultural activists to be united and active to build a terrorism-communalism and exploitation-oppression-free Bangladesh.
The series of events was Inaugurated by eminent cultural personality Ramendu Majumdar. The inaugural ceremony was chaired by Sammilita Sangskritik Jote President Ghulam Quddus.
Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad and Sammilita Sangskritik Jote General Secretary, reciter Md Ahkam Ullah delivered the welcome speech. The Convenor of the Amar Ekushey festivities committee, renowned dramatist Jhuna Chowdhury also spoke at the event.
The inaugural programme then was followed by solo and group recitations, dance and street play.
From February 8 to 16, the Amar Ekushey cultural events will continue at the Central Shaheed Minar and from February 17 to February 21st, the events will continue at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial, Rayer Bazar in the capital.
Sammilita Sangskritik Jote and other cultural organisations observe the Language Martyrs Day or International Mother Language Day every year with such events, honouring the martyrs in the 1952 Language Movement.
Valentine’s Day Celebration on a Budget: Gift and Activity Ideas
The season of love is approaching as we step into February. Valentine’s Day comes every year as a reminder of love and affection. While there are lavish and extravagant ways to make the day memorable, there are less expensive ways to make the day as special as it is. Let’s look at some creative Valentine’s Day gift ideas that won’t leave a dent in your pocket.
11 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas without Breaking Your Bank
Make a Core Memory
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to do something that you’ll remember for a long time, like making a core memory. For example, plan out a hike or go for a boat ride that doesn’t cost much. The thrill and exhilaration of exploring add to sharing a candid moment with each other. Besides, what’s better than traveling and exploring with your partner?
Write a Love Letter or a Poem
Whether it's Beethoven’s “Immortal Beloved” or Shelley’s creations, letters and poems have been a constant medium of expressing love for generations. With Valentine’s Day approaching, now is a better time than ever to start writing a love letter or poem for your loved one. It’s a great way to show your effort in a non-materialistic way. And if you need some help, there’s always ChatGPT to the rescue.
Read more: Valentine’s Day Bucket List: Romantic Ideas for Couples
DIY Card and Gifts
Are you good with arts and crafts? Even if you’re not, trying your hand at DIY cards and gifts can be a great Valentine’s Day gift to your loved one. It’s also cost-effective considering you’ll hardly need anything other than a few cuts of paper, scissors, and some pens to make the design. Let your creativity and imagination be the guide. But if you want to be more precise, there are tons of DIY gift card tutorials on YouTube that you can follow.
A Photobook of Memories
In an increasingly digital world where photos are stashed in galleries and drives, be old-fashioned and curate a photobook filled with precious memories. Select pictures of some of your best moments together and print them out to create a photobook. It’s a great way to show your sincerity and effort to make the day special.
A Candlelight Dinner at Home
Who said romantic dinners are too expensive? Create a romantic ambiance at your home with a candlelight dinner setup. You can either cook the main course at home or order something. It’ll be significantly cheaper than what you’d normally pay for a candlelight dine-out. Plus the effort of creating a beautiful atmosphere would make the whole thing even more special.
Read more: 10 Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Wife
Sangeet Oikko Bangladesh felicitates Rezwana Choudhury Bannya on receiving 'Padma Shri'
Sangeet Oikko Bangladesh, the umbrella organisation for several of the country's music-related groups, has honoured the eminent Rabindra Sangeet artist Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, who has recently been named as one of the distinguished recipients of India’s prestigious "Padma Shri" award by the Government of India.
On Monday (February 5) evening, the representative team of Sangeet Oikko Bangladesh congratulated the iconic singer at her residence in the capital with floral greetings on behalf of the organisation.
Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya to receive prestigious Padma Shri award
Secretary Generals of the organisation Shahid Mahmud Jangi and Naquib Khan, alongside Sangeet Oikko’s Publicity and Publication Secretary, National Film Award-winning lyricist Zulfikar Russell, went to felicitate Bannya, who is also the President of the organisation.
Bannya received Bangladesh's highest civilian award, the Independence Award, in 2016 for her contribution to the country’s music. This time, the eminent artist was awarded India's fourth highest civilian honour, the 'Padma Shri' for her distinguished service in the field of art.
Lyricists’ Association of Bangladesh, Singers’ Association of Bangladesh, Music Composers’ Society Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Musicians Foundation have united under the banner of 'Sangeet Oikya Bangladesh' in 2021 to protect the rights of people associated with the country’s music industry.
This organisation is working together with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Bangladesh Copyright Office to create links between all parties in music and formulate jointly developed proposals for the betterment of the industry.
The first and current committee members of the organisation include President Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, Secretary Generals Shaheed Mahmud Jangi, Naquib Khan, and Kumar Bishwajit, Finance and Department Secretary Asif Iqbal, Information Technology and International Affairs Secretary Hasan Abidur Reza Jewel, Cultural Secretary Bappa Mazumder, Publicity and Publication Secretary Zulfikar Russell, and Executive Members Manam Ahmed, Kabir Bakul, Shawkat Ali Imon, and Joy Shahriar.
India’s highest civilian honour is "Bharat Ratna," followed by "Padma Vibhushan," "Padma Bhushan" and "Padma Shri" in chronological order. These awards are conferred for special contributions in different sectors.
This year, the Indian government has nominated 132 distinguished people for the Padma Awards. Five of them are receiving the "Padma Vibhushan," 17 are receiving the "Padma Bhushan" and 110 are receiving the "Padma Shri’" award, including Bannya.
Earlier in 2021, the Indian government awarded the "Padma Shri" to the leading personalities of the cultural arena of Bangladesh, including Chhayanaut President Professor Sanjida Khatun and Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Quazi Sazzad Ali Zahir, Bir Protik.Previously, archaeologist Enamul Haque and social worker Jharnadhara Chowdhury also received the "Padma Shri" award, while late-eminent educationist Professor Anisuzzaman and diplomat Syed Moazzem Ali received 'Padma Bhushan' from the Government of India.
7 Types of Strength Training And Their Benefits
The American Council of Exercise outlines seven diverse forms of strength training, each catering to distinct functional applications. While each type enhances physical fitness, athletic abilities, or overall well-being, their stark differences explain why a track runner and a bodybuilder, both labeled "strong" and "fit," frequently exhibit contrasting appearances and training routines.
What is Strength Training?
Strength training, also called weight or resistance training, involves doing exercises to get stronger and last longer. It's not just about lifting weights; you can use your body weight or try different exercises like isometrics and plyometrics. The goal is to make your muscles stronger over time.
Strength training is mainly a type of exercise that doesn't require a lot of air, but some forms like circuit training also get your heart pumping. It helps make your muscles, tendons, and bones stronger, boosts metabolism, and reduces the chance of getting hurt. Athletes and older people can benefit from it to improve their joints, hearts, and lower their injury risk. Many sports and activities include strength training in their practice to make people better at what they do.
Read more: How Does Physical Activity and Exercise Affect Testosterone Levels?
Benefits and Risks of Different Types of Strength Training
Agile Strength Training
Agile Strength Training is a fitness approach that blends traditional strength exercises with practical movements for daily activities. It emphasizes adaptability and flexibility, incorporating dynamic workouts like weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and flexibility drills. The primary goal is to enhance overall strength, flexibility, and agility, adapting to individual needs and progress.
Benefits of Agile Strength Training
This approach improves overall strength, flexibility, and the ability to move with precision in different directions. It's valuable for daily tasks, promoting quick and controlled responses to your surroundings, ultimately aiding injury prevention.
Read more: Why You Should Try Walking Backwards
Colon Cancer: Everything You Need to Know
Colorectal cancer, or colon cancer as it is commonly known, is a type of cancer that develops at the rectum or colon of the human body. WHO reports that colon cancer is the third leading type of cancer globally with 10% of all reported cases. It is also the third highest reason for cancer-related deaths. Let’s take a detailed look into the fatal disease, what causes it, and how people can potentially save themselves from colon cancer.
How Does Colon Cancer Develop?
The colon or the rectum is the terminal point of the digestive system. It is essentially a sac that houses the bowel and aids in the bowel movement process. The lining of the colon can develop precancerous polyps which can become cancerous over time.
It is important to note that all polyps are not cancerous. However, it is needed to medically treat them at the earliest as there is always the chance of it developing into cancer cells.
The exact cause of polyp development is unknown. However, scientists have often pointed out that genes and age play a crucial role in their development. Other factors like diets, obesity, smoking, and inflammation of the colon lining have been identified as leading causes thus far.
Read more: Measles: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
What are the Symptoms and Causes of Colon Cancer?
Symptoms of colon cancer include:
Change in Bowel Movement
As a precursor to colon cancer, a patient often notices a significant shift in bowel movement. For example, the frequency of diarrhea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency is noticed.
Blood Discharge
A common symptom of colon cancer is the presence of blood in the stool. Patients may not feel any apparent discomfort but dark tarry stools may be noticed during bowel movement.
Pain in the Abdomen
Another common symptom of colon cancer is severe and lasting pain in the abdomen. It generally starts as mild discomfort and gradually moves to severe cramps.
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Anemia
The blood discharge with stool may trigger anemia or loss of red corpuscles in the blood. Anemia also triggers weakness and fatigue which is a secondary symptom of colon cancer.
Unexpected Weight Loss
Another sign of any cancer in general is the unexpected loss of weight. Cancer patients including colon cancer ones tend to rapidly lose weight which may lead to secondary complications.
There are several known causes of colon cancer. These include:
Age
Age is one of the commonly identified factors behind colon cancer. Anyone over the age of 50 is at risk of contracting colon cancer though it might occur at any age.
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Family History
Genetics are also thought to be a reason behind colon cancer. Families with a history of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis or FAP and Lynch Syndrome tend to compound the chances of contracting colon cancer.
Personal Medical History
Colon cancers are often recurring, meaning they can come back even if it is treated completely. A personal medical history of colon cancer or repeated polyp formation may trigger renewed cancer cell generation in the colon linings.
Additionally, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases or IBDs like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease increase the risk of contracting colon cancer. Patients with Type 2 diabetes also run the risk of developing colon cancer.
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How to Protect Children from Electric Shocks
In a recent distressing incident in Cumilla, seven-year-old Abdullah encountered a life-threatening situation while playing, entangled with an unimaginable 11,000-volt transmission cable running through the building's gap. Such incidents can be prevented with caution.
Electrical shocks pose a significant threat to children, especially during playtime. The allure of exploring their surroundings may unknowingly lead them into situations with high electric shock risk. Let’s take a look at some tips to keep children safe from electric shocks in and outside home.
Tips to Protect Children from Electric Shocks
Cord Management
Kids can get electrocuted through exposed cords or overloaded electrical outlets. To ensure the safety of children, it is crucial to keep electrical cords out of their reach. At home and school, it is essential to bundle and clamp cords, use cord covers, or hide running cords behind furniture.
Additionally, it is essential never to overload outlets or power strips, as this practice poses a significant fire hazard.
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Appliance Safety
Ensuring the safety of children involves keeping appliances, particularly those that generate heat like irons, hair dryers, toasters, etc - out of their reach. To further minimise risks, it is essential to unplug these appliances when not in use.
This practice not only prevents potential accidents associated with heat-generating appliances but also promotes energy efficiency. It also eliminates the risk of accidents when the appliances are not actively in operation.
GFCIs Installation
For enhanced safety in areas prone to water exposure, such as kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, one may consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in the power outlets. GFCIs play a crucial role in preventing serious injuries or fatalities resulting from electric shocks.
Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
These devices swiftly cut off power if the system can detect a fault in the circuit, mitigating the risk of electric shock in potentially hazardous environments. Prioritising the installation of GFCIs underscores a proactive approach to electrical safety, safeguarding kids in home and school areas from the dangers associated with water and electricity interactions.
Secure Outdoor Wires
Prioritising the safety of outdoor spaces is imperative, especially concerning hanging wires outside homes or streets. To mitigate potential risks, it is crucial to ensure that all such wires are securely fastened to prevent accidental contact.
If there are hanging electric wires on open roads, near residential blocks, or schools, the children are at risk of getting electrocuted while playing. Therefore, to avoid any electrical accidents, parents, school management, and community members should inform the associated responsible authorities to take necessary measures.
Read more: Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
By eliminating the possibility of unintended contact with outdoor wires, individuals can contribute to creating safer residential areas.
12th Kibria Print Fair underway in Dhaka's Kalakendra
The 12th Kibria Print Fair, currently ongoing at Kalakendra in Dhaka's Lalmatia, is bringing together 19 printing studios and institutions from across the country to showcase their exquisite artworks.
Kibria Printmaking Studio has been organising the fair, also known as the ‘Kibria Mela’, since 2012 to pay tribute to the late eminent printmaker Mohammad Kibria. Since the first print fair, the Kibria Mela has worked towards promoting printmaking more accessible to artists and enthusiasts.
Typically held every year in the first week of February, this year’s fair which was Inaugurated on Friday, is displaying artworks created using different techniques such as woodcut, intaglio, lithography, etching and others.
Department of Printmaking, Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University; Painting-Oriental-Printmaking Department, Faculty of Fine Arts, Rajshahi University; Printmaking Discipline, Fine Arts School, Khulna University; Department of Fine Arts, Jatiyo Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh; Department of Printmaking, Faculty of Fine Arts, Jagannath University; Department of Fine Arts, Islamic University Bangladesh, Kushtia; Printmaking Studio, Department of Fine Arts, UODA; Department of Fine Arts, Rabindra Maitree University, Kushtia; Bengal Arts Programme under the Bengal Foundation; Safiuddin Printmaking Studio; Shunno Art Space; Cosmos Atelier 71; Karkhana Art Space; Studio 48; Flame Arts Open Studio; Mazumder's Print Land; Kaalnee Art Studio; Kibria Printmaking Studio; Kalakendra, Dhaka; and Govt. College of Art & Craft, Agartala, Tripura, India are participating in this year’s fair.
The inauguration ceremony on Friday was joined by several eminent artists including Syed Abul Barq Alvi, Shahid Kabir, Rashid Amin, DU FFA Dean Nisar Hossain and others.
Besides works by emerging printmakers, the fair is featuring artworks created by prominent artists, namely, Abul Barq Alvi, Rafiqun Nabi, Nisar Hossain, Shahid Kabir, Wakilur Rahman, Fareha Zeba, Shishir Bhattacharjee, Samarjit Roy Chowdhury, and others.
Cosmos Atelier 71, the art wing of Cosmos Foundation and one of the regular participants at the fair, is displaying over 40 artworks in this year’s edition.
The 12th Kibria Print Fair will remain open from 4 pm to 8 pm till February 10.
How Does Physical Activity and Exercise Affect Testosterone Levels?
Testosterone, a crucial hormone for both men and women, plays a vital role in various bodily functions. One factor that significantly influences testosterone levels is exercise and mental well-being. So, it is natural to wonder how these two interact. Let's explore the intricate relationship between exercise and testosterone to understand how physical activity impacts hormonal balance.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone, a pivotal hormone, is present in both men and women, although commonly associated with male characteristics. Produced in the testicles in men, ovaries in women, and to a lesser extent, the adrenal glands, it plays a crucial role in diverse bodily functions.
This hormone is instrumental in the development of male reproductive tissues, including the testes and prostate. Often referred to as the "male sex hormone," testosterone acts as a conductor orchestrating various bodily functions, impacting muscle growth, bone density, mood, libido, and more.
Read more: 10 Hazards at the Gym and How to Avoid Them
In women, testosterone is essential for maintaining reproductive health and influencing aspects of mood and energy.
The decrease of testosterone hormone with age is natural, but factors like stress and lifestyle can accelerate this process. Understanding how to optimise testosterone, perhaps through targeted physical exercises, can help promote overall health and well-being.
How Exercise Affects Testosterone
Relationship between Exercise and Testosterone
The correlation between exercise and testosterone levels in men has been well-established by different research initiatives. Long-term engagement in physical activity has shown a consistent increase in testosterone levels.
Interestingly, certain physical exercises can induce a temporary spike of testosterone hormone within fifteen minutes to an hour after completion of the workout. Such short term impacts are especially noticeable in younger men. This immediate boost is more pronounced when workouts are performed in the morning, aligning with the natural peak of testosterone levels during that time.
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However, sustaining elevated testosterone levels over the long term requires regular exercise. While there is currently no conclusive evidence of increased testosterone levels in women due to exercise, the presence of testosterone during workouts aids in training and muscle recovery.
Research reveals nuanced findings show that men experience significant testosterone increases post-weightlifting, whereas women show minimal changes. Resistance training in women has a temporary testosterone boost impacting fat distribution.
For older men, regular physical activity not only raises testosterone levels but also enhances growth hormone levels and positively affects brain function. In those previously inactive, exercise led to a notable increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
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Interestingly, even in men with obesity, regular exercise proved more effective in boosting testosterone levels than weight loss diets alone. Maintaining healthy or heightened testosterone levels is crucial, not just for muscle building but for overall well-being and exercise progress.
Exercises that Increase Testosterone
Not all exercises can create the same impacts when it comes to elevating testosterone levels. Understanding the most effective workouts can contribute significantly to achieving the desired hormonal balance. Here is a closer look at some of the best exercises known to increase testosterone.
Dhaka Makers unveil a tapestry of talent in 2nd edition
Emerging as a unique platform for over 100 local and contemporary artists and artisans, Dhaka Makers, an independent arts and crafts festival opened its second season on Thursday at the Aloki Convention Center in the capital.
After its highly acclaimed inaugural season back in June last year, the platform which has already established itself as an urban rendezvous for creative, contemporary local artists and artisans, the second edition of Dhaka Makers aims to continue showcasing their work and foster connections within the creative community on an even greater scale.
A wide variety of events are available throughout the four-day festival, such as arts and crafts classes, a Makers' Market with over 100 entrepreneurs, an art gallery called Jadughar that showcases the works of 85 artists, and a scrumptious food pavilion curated by Sameera Wadood.
The festival celebrates Dhaka's cultural wealth with nightly performances by performers from different musical styles, including Tashfee, Labik Kamal Gourob, Imran Ahmed Trio, Joler Gaan, and others.
City Bank takes centre stage as the Title Partner for the event, with support from other partners such as EMK Center and Goethe Institute. Strategic Partners include Aloki Convention Center, Emerald Events, ICE Today, Deshar Works, and Bhai Bhai Productions. Media Partners contributing to the festival's outreach are Haal Fashion and Somoy TV.
PM unveils new graphic novel on Bangabandhu’s travel to China
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina unveiled a new graphic novel based on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's book "Amar Dekha Noya Chin" (The New China as I Saw) on Thursday, February 1, following the inauguration of the Ekushey Book Fair. The unveiling took place at the Centre for Research and Information (CRI) stall located in the Bangla Academy premises, where she also purchased a copy of the book.
The Prime Minister entered the fair at 4:40 pm and, after visiting several stalls and viewing the exhibits on display, she made her way to the CRI stall.
Read: ‘Amar Dekha Noya Chin’: Illuminating Bangabandhu’s travel account
Nasrul Hamid, a trustee of CRI, introduced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to those present at the stall before she unveiled a major attraction of this year's book fair, the graphic novel "Amar Dekha Noya Chin". The Prime Minister also participated in a photo session with the book. Following this, she visited several other stalls before departing from the fair premises.
Like every year, the CRI stall is set up in the Bangla Academy premises, with the newly published graphic novel "Amar Dekha Noya Chin" being the highlight of their display. CRI’s first foray into this genre was the graphic novel "Mujib", aimed at introducing Bangabandhu to children and young adults. Following the success of "Mujib", they planned to adapt another popular book written by the Father of the Nation into a graphic novel format.
The graphic novel's publisher is CRI trustee Radwan Mujib Siddiq, with illustrations by Sabyasachi Mistry. Siddiq Ahmed contributed to the narrative and dialogue, while the project's curation and editing were managed by Shibu Kumar Shill.