UN cultural agency UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) added the Ramadan meal “iftar” to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage on Wednesday. Earlier, Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan jointly submitted the application to UNESCO for the sociocultural tradition. Dhaka's rickshaws and rickshaw paintings enlisted as UNESCO heritage Iftar is observed by Muslims at sunset during the month of Ramadan, UNESCO posted on its site. Iftar is observed by people of different ages, genders, and origins and commemorates the conclusion of the daily challenges of fasting from sunrise to sunset.  Govt’s sustainable dev plan for Sundarbans: UNESCO World Heritage Committee says further research needed It frequently takes the shape of meetings or dinners for communities, building family and community bonds and fostering charity, solidarity, and social exchange. People who do not fast throughout the month of Ramadan also participate in the festivities and rituals associated with iftar, said the UNESCO post. Oral teaching, observation, and participation are common methods of passing on information and skills within families, and children and teens are frequently entrusted with making components of traditional meals. UNESCO proposes listing Venice as endangered heritage During this time, parents also teach their children about the advantages of fasting as well as the societal ideals and purposes of iftar. Iftar is frequently supported by government institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and charities, as well as through television, radio, print, and social media, the UNESCO post also said.

Nausea is characterised by an unsettling sensation in the stomach and can be quite distressing. It often accompanies bloating, creating a feeling of discomfort and unease. These sensations can result from various factors, such as digestive issues, illness, or motion sickness. However, certain foods and drinks have been known to offer relief from these symptoms and aid in calming the stomach and reducing the urge to vomit. 10 Foods that Help Relieve Nausea and Vomiting Ginger Ginger is renowned for its potent anti-nausea properties. It actively alleviates stomach discomfort. Its bioactive compounds possess anti-inflammatory qualities that aid in easing gastrointestinal distress. By soothing inflammation and calming the digestive system, ginger can provide relief to nauseated people. Whether ingested as ginger tea, raw ginger, or in supplemental form, this root emerges as a preferred choice for individuals encountering nausea. It mitigates these symptoms and fosters digestive tranquility. Read more: Which Vitamins are Essential for Women? Peppermint Peppermint is famed for its cooling sensation. It mainly functions as a natural remedy to soothe the digestive system. Its menthol element actively relaxes stomach and intestinal muscles. Frequently used as peppermint tea or oil, it alleviates digestive unease and significantly reduces the incidence of nausea.  Chamomile Tea Chamomile tea is mainly celebrated for its calming attributes. It diligently contributes to diminishing nausea. Its anti-inflammatory traits and muscle-relaxing properties serve as a gentle remedy for soothing an upset stomach. Imbibing chamomile tea actively eases the sensation of vomiting and offers a comforting solution for individuals experiencing stomach discomfort.  Bananas Bananas are abundant in nutrients and easily assimilated. So, it can help provide relief for an unsettled stomach. The potassium content of bananas helps in rebalancing electrolytes and facilitating stomach settling. For nauseated people, bananas serve as a gentle companion for the digestive system. Besides, bananas are widely popular as a nourishing and stomach-settling natural remedy for individuals experiencing stomach discomfort. Read more: 10 Teas for Upset Stomach and Improved Digestive Health Electrolyte Drinks Electrolyte drinks are laden with essential minerals like potassium and sodium. They work diligently to restore depleted electrolytes in the body. Their balanced composition actively stabilises the body's electrolyte levels and thereby reduces nausea symptoms. These beverages offer quick rehydration and vital nutrient restoration, and these drinks serve as a valuable remedy.  Crackers Plain crackers actively serve as a remedy for settling the stomach. Their easily digestible nature and ability to absorb surplus stomach acid actively alleviate discomfort. When consumed gradually, these crackers effectively ease feelings of nausea and the likelihood of vomiting. Apple  Apple actively aids in regulating stomach acidity. Its rich content of natural compounds contributes to maintaining a healthy pH level in the stomach, effectively curbing queasiness. The acetic acid present in apples plays a pivotal role in mitigating feelings of nausea.  Its consumption, either raw or in the form of apple cider vinegar, contributes to alleviating symptoms of nausea and offers a natural remedy for digestive distress. Read more: Tips to Prevent Food Poisoning while Travelling Rice Rice is known for its stomach-friendly attributes. This food can help improve the nauseant feeling and curb vomiting tendencies. Its easy digestibility plays a crucial role in soothing the stomach, absorbing surplus stomach acid, and promptly alleviating discomfort.  Whether in the form of plain rice or rice water, its gentle nature effectively comforts the stomach. Consuming plain rice or its derivative, rice water, contributes to easing nausea.  Nuts Nuts are packed with nutrients and beneficial properties. The high protein and healthy fat content make nuts a valuable snack for stabilising blood sugar levels. Additionally, the presence of magnesium in nuts aids in calming the digestive system and reduces the likelihood of vomiting. Incorporating nuts into the diet acts as a stabilising force, providing sustained energy and promoting digestive ease.  Water  By actively hydrating the body and soothing the digestive system, water can effectively alleviate nausea symptoms. Water curbs the urge to vomit and fosters a hydrated, settled stomach environment conducive to reduced feelings of discomfort. Summing Up Dealing with nausea and vomiting is uncomfortable. Natural remedies like ginger, peppermint, bananas, and others mentioned can effectively soothe the stomach and alleviate these distressing symptoms. Incorporating these foods and drinks into your diet can offer relief and improve your overall digestive health. Read more: 7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach

A higher CC has always been a draw for motorcycle enthusiasts. The roar of powerful engines echoing through the streets is a symphony that resonates with speed aficionados.  Now, as November 2023 ends, anticipation reaches new heights with the Bajaj Pulsar N250, the first 250 CC marvel, taking to the roads of Bangladesh. Let’s take a look at its features, price, and what it pledges to give in return in detail. Specifications of Bajaj Pulsar N250 Engine and Transmission: The Power Behind the Roar This Pulsar derives its potency from a single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine meticulously designed to deliver an awe-inspiring performance. This engine features a sophisticated SOHC (single overhead camshaft) with two valves. Paired with a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox, the N250 offers riders a precise and responsive shifting experience. The motorcycle proudly adheres to the BS6-2.0 emission standards, underscoring Bajaj's commitment to environmental sustainability. Read more: Motorbike Riding in Winter: How to beat the cold weather? Mileage and Performance: Fuel Efficiency With an overall mileage of 35 kmpl (kilometers per liter), this model strikes an optimal balance between power and fuel efficiency. Chassis and Suspension: Crafted for Performance The N250 proudly belongs to the category of sports naked bikes, featuring a robust chassis meticulously crafted for performance. The telescopic front suspension (37 mm) and mono-shock with Nitrox rear suspension work in tandem to absorb shocks and provide a smooth and controlled ride. Dimensions and Capacity: Dynamic Design Unveiled Boasting a 14-liter fuel capacity, this model is ready for the long haul. This is coupled with a saddle height of 795 mm, a ground clearance of 165 mm, a wheelbase of 1351 mm, and a curb weight of 162 kg. Read more: Top 10 ABS Motorbikes in Bangladesh Electricals: Lighting the Path Ahead From the LED headlights and tail lights to the turn signal lamps and DRLs (daytime running lights), every element is designed to provide optimal visibility. The inclusion of a low fuel indicator and distance-to-empty feature ensures that riders are well-informed about the bike's status. Tires & Brakes: Gripping Performance The braking system of the N250 features a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc. Besides, a dual-channel ABS system boosts safety with the engine kill switch and pass switch. Fitted with tubeless tires (front: 100/80-17, rear: 130/70-17), this model ensures a confident grip on various surfaces. The combination of these tires and alloy wheels (front: 431.8 mm, rear: 431.8 mm) contributes to the bike's agility and stability. Motor & Battery: Power Unleashed The chain drive and manual transmission are paired with a peak power of 24.5 PS at 8750 rpm. It can brace the momentum with a torque that can maximize up to 21.5 Nm at 6500 rpm. Read more: The Most Popular Motorbike Models in Bangladesh Pros of Bajaj Pulsar N250 Safety Assurance The dual-channel ABS system, coupled with an engine kill switch and pass switch, prioritizes rider safety. This combination instills confidence by ensuring controlled stops and providing convenient safety features. Efficient Fuel Economy With an impressive 14-liter fuel capacity and an overall mileage of 35 kmpl, the N250 strikes a harmonious balance between power and fuel efficiency. This not only reduces the cost of ownership but also positions the motorcycle as an economical choice for riders. Informative Electricals The advanced LED lighting system, including headlights, tail lights, and turn signal lamps, enhances visibility. The low fuel indicator and distance-to-empty feature keep riders well-informed about the vehicle's status. Gripping Tires and Brakes The combination of a front disc, a rear disc, and a dual-channel ABS system ensures controlled braking. The inclusion of tubeless tires and alloy wheels enhances grip and stability on various surfaces. Thoughtful Ergonomics The split-seat design, adjustable windscreen, and passenger footrest prioritize rider and pillion comfort. The LED-lit clock not only serves a functional purpose but also adds to the overall aesthetics of the vehicle. Read more: Motorcycle Categories: Different Types of Motorbikes Explained Cons of Bajaj Pulsar N250 Speed Instability on High Speed This superbike exhibits speed instability when crossing 100 kph, potentially impacting the rider's confidence and safety at higher speeds. This limitation might be a concern for riders who enjoy cruising at faster velocities on highways. Same Tires as its Predecessor The decision to retain the same tires as its predecessor for the 250 cc engine might raise concerns among riders. A 250cc bike demands a robust tire configuration to handle the increased power and provide optimal grip. Using the same tires as its predecessor may compromise the bike's performance potential, especially in terms of overall handling. Limited Valve Configuration Equipping this road crasher with only two valves in its engine might be viewed as an unexpected drawback. In a competitive market, a 4-valve engine configuration is often considered standard for maximizing performance, efficiency, and power delivery. The limitation of two valves could potentially impact the bike's ability to compete with other motorcycles in its class. Traditional 5-Speed Gearbox The decision to stick with a traditional 5-speed gearbox rather than upgrading to a 6-speed configuration might be seen as a missed opportunity. A 6-speed gearbox is increasingly becoming the industry standard for motorcycles in this category. The absence of extra gear could limit the bike's versatility, especially during highway cruising. Lack of Bluetooth Connectivity In an era where technology integration is a significant selling point, the absence of Bluetooth connectivity is a notable shortcoming for the N250. Bluetooth connectivity is now expected in modern vehicles, allowing riders to seamlessly connect their devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment. The lack of this feature could be perceived as a missed opportunity to enhance the overall riding experience. Price of Bajaj Pulsar N250 With three colors—Racing Red, Caribbean Blue, and Brooklyn Black—this new Pulsar is launched at BDT 339,999 in Bangladesh. Features like a semi-digital meter and a 2-valve engine are already offered by the below 250 cc bikes available in Bangladesh. However, with no direct competitors yet, the N250 has an early advantage to shake the market.  Summing Up The Bajaj Pulsar N250 sets the stage for a thrilling journey as the Bangladesh roads are now capable of taking the engine capacity up to 375 cc. It can be an attractive choice for motorbike enthusiasts seeking weekend adventures. Read more: 15 Best Motorbikes Under 2 lac taka for daily use, office commute

Vitamins are integral for women's health. They actively maintain overall well-being, regulate vital bodily functions, and avert diverse health complications.  These nutrients play pivotal roles, supporting immunity, nurturing organs, and ensuring optimal functionality. Together they promote women's health and vitality. 6 Essential Vitamins for Women Vitamin A  Vitamin A plays a critical role in women’s health. It actively supports vision, fortifies the immune system, and nurtures reproductive health. It is also essential for maintaining healthy skin. This vitamin is abundantly found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.  Actively incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into the diet ensures an adequate supply of Vitamin A. It actively fosters robust immunity, aids in cell regeneration for healthy skin, and contributes significantly to preserving optimal vision. Thus it helps ensure women’s overall well-being. Read more: 10 Teas for Upset Stomach and Improved Digestive Health Vitamin B12  Vitamin B12 stands as an indispensable element for women. It contributes to energy production, neurological functions, and red blood cell formation. Meats, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals serve as rich sources and ensure a substantial intake of Vitamin B12.  This vitamin is vital for sustaining nerve health, supporting cognitive functions, and aiding the production of red blood cells crucial for oxygen transport. Its active presence in the diet is pivotal for women for fostering vitality, ensuring neurological well-being, and maintaining the body's essential functions. Vitamin C  Vitamin C serves as a pivotal nutrient for women. It helps with collagen formation, bolsters immunity, and promotes skin health. It is abundantly found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being and enhancing immune responses.  Read more: Vitamin C: Where to Found and How Much to Consume It also supports collagen synthesis, fortifies skin integrity, aids in wound healing, and safeguards against infections.  Vitamin D  Vitamin D stands as one of the most necessary nutrients for women. It is great for bone health, immunity function, and mood regulation. Exposure to sunlight and the consumption of fortified foods such as fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products ensure adequate Vitamin D levels.  This vital nutrient plays a pivotal role in maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system's resilience, and regulating mood patterns. It can help to prevent Vitamin D deficiency diseases like osteoporosis. Actively incorporating these sources into the diet and sunlight exposure actively facilitates optimal Vitamin D levels. Read more: Different forms of Vitamin D: Benefits, sources of Vitamin D1 vs D2 vs D3 Vitamin E  Vitamin E serves as a potent antioxidant. It shields women's cells from damage. This vitamin is abundantly found in nuts, seeds, spinach, and avocados. Vitamin E stands as an essential nutrient for women's health.  Its role as an antioxidant actively safeguards cells from harmful free radicals, supports skin vitality, and counteracts oxidative stress. Including these nutrient-rich foods into the diet ensures an ample supply of Vitamin E. It also protects women's overall health, preserving cellular integrity, and fortifying against the detrimental effects of oxidative damage.  Vitamin K  Vitamin K stands as a significant nutrient for women. It assists in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and heart health. Foods such as spinach, broccoli are rich in Vitamin K. It plays a significant role in supporting bone health and blood clotting mechanisms.  Read more: Microwave Cooking: 7 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes By actively incorporating these Vitamin K-rich foods into the diet, women can ensure their safety from different Vitamin K deficiency issues. It also participates in blood coagulation, aids in wound healing, and supports optimal bone density. Its role in regulating calcium aids in bone metabolism, while also contributing to heart health. All together it plays a vital role in women's overall health. Closing Lines Maintaining a balanced intake of vital vitamins and minerals is crucial for women's health and well-being. Actively incorporating a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods aids in sustaining optimal health across life stages. This practice actively supports bodily functions, fostering resilience and promoting wellness in women. Read more: Zinc: Health Benefits, Food Sources and Daily Requirements

Tuesday marked the 80th birthday of Ekushey Padak winning eminent Bangladeshi cartoonist, painter and Emeritus Professor at the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art, Rafiqun Nabi. Celebrating the birthday of the revered artist, popularly known as ‘Ranabi’ and the creator of the popular cartoon character ‘Tokai’ - the Faculty of Fine Arts initiated a special exhibition and a felicitation ceremony on Tuesday. The exhibition of cartoons, covers and posters drawn by the artist was inaugurated at the Zainul Gallery of the faculty on Tuesday. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ASM Maksud Kamal who inaugurated the exhibition as the chief guest. A felicitation ceremony comprising a discussion session and cultural performances was held at Bakultala of the Faculty of Fine Arts which was joined by prominent artists, cultural institutions, art admirers and well-wishers of the eminent artist. The ceremony was chaired by popular thespian, cultural personality and former Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor. Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni, emeritus Professor and eminent artist Hashem Khan, emeritus Professor Nazrul Islam, former Bangladesh Bank Governor and honorary Professor of the Department of Development Studies at Dhaka University Dr Atiur Rahman, art maestro and educator Professor Mustafa Monowar, Faculty of Fine Art Dean Professor Nisar Hossain, dramatist Ramendu Majumder and others. “Prof Rafiqun Nabi is a valuable asset not only to Dhaka University but also to the entire country. Through his distinctive works of art, the artist has transcended time and place, transforming himself from an individual to an institution. His painting portrays not just Bangladesh, but also the inconsistency-lawlessness, good and bad, of several countries across the world,” DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ASM Maksud Kamal said at the event, wishing good health, prosperity and long life to the artist on his birth anniversary. Reminiscing his moments with ‘Ranabi’ during the turbulent period of the Liberation War in 1971, Asaduzzaman Noor said that Rafiqun Nabi was among the catalysts of making handmade posters containing revolutionary messages against the oppressors, before becoming one of the most revered art educators in the country. After the discussion, several personalities and institutions namely Bangladesh National Museum, Gallery Cosmos, Daily Prothom Alo, Bengal Foundation, Engineer Moinul Abedin on behalf of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin's family, Narayanganj Fine Arts Institute, Shanto Mariam University of Creative Technology, Durjoy Foundation, Abinta Gallery of Fine Arts, Art Bangla Foundation, Bangladesh Television, Chapainawabganj District Association, Khelaghar, Bangladesh Institute of Architects and others felicitated the revered artists with flowers. Popular musical troop Joler Gaan and other prominent cultural units including Chhayanat, Udichi, Aranyak, Karak, Panchabhaskar, and Shanto Mariam University then performed enthralling music, poetry recitation, drama, and dance at the event. Professor Rafiqun Nabi was born on November 28, 1943, in the Chapainawabganj district of the then-Indian subcontinent during the British regime. He completed his Bachelor's and Master's at the East Pakistan College of Arts and Crafts (now the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art), where he was a direct student of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin and Quamrul Hassan. From 1973–1976, he studied printmaking at the Athens School of Fine Arts under the Greek Government's postgraduate scholarship. Starting his career as a professional cartoonist in 1963 for Weekly Purbodesh, Nabi served as a faculty member of the DU Faculty of Fine Art from 1964 to 2010. His iconic character ‘Tokai’ first appeared in the anniversary issue of Weekly Bichitra in 1977. For his contribution to the country’s art, Rafiqun Nabi was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 1993.

Irish writer Paul Lynch won the Booker Prize for fiction on Sunday with what judges called a “soul-shattering” novel about a woman’s struggle to protect her family as Ireland collapses into totalitarianism and war. “Prophet Song,” set in a dystopian fictional version of Dublin, was awarded the 50,000-pound ($63,000) literary prize at a ceremony in London. Canadian writer Esi Edugyan, who chaired the judging panel, said the book is “a triumph of emotional storytelling, bracing and brave” in which Lynch “pulls off feats of language that are stunning to witness.” Lynch, 46, had been the bookies’ favorite to win the prestigious prize, which usually brings a big boost in sales. His book beat five other finalists from Ireland, the U.K., the U.S. and Canada, chosen from 163 novels submitted by publishers. “This was not an easy book to write,” Lynch said after being handed the Booker trophy. “The rational part of me believed I was dooming my career by writing this novel, though I had to write the book anyway. We do not have a choice in such matters.” Lynch has called “Prophet Song,” his fifth novel, an attempt at “radical empathy” that tries to plunge readers into the experience of living in a collapsing society. Read: Writers from 4 continents up for International Booker Prize “I was trying to see into the modern chaos,” he told the Booker website. “The unrest in Western democracies. The problem of Syria — the implosion of an entire nation, the scale of its refugee crisis and the West’s indifference. … I wanted to deepen the reader’s immersion to such a degree that by the end of the book, they would not just know, but feel this problem for themselves.” The five prize judges met to pick the winner on Saturday, less than 48 hours after far-right violence erupted in Dublin following a stabbing attack on a group of children. Edugyan said that immediate events didn’t directly influence the choice of winner. Lynch said he was “astonished” by the riots “and at the same time I recognized the truth that this kind of energy is always there under the surface.” He said “Prophet Song” — written over four years starting in 2018 — “is a counterfactual novel. It’s not a prophetic statement.” “I wrote the book to articulate the message that the things that are happening in this book are occurring timelessly throughout the ages and maybe we need to deepen our own responses to that," he told reporters. Read: It's a tie: Atwood and Evaristo share fiction's Booker Prize The other finalists were Irish writer Paul Murray’s “The Bee Sting;” American novelist Paul Harding’s “This Other Eden;” Canadian author Sarah Bernstein’s “Study for Obedience;” U.S. writer Jonathan Escoffery’s “If I Survive You;” and British author Chetna Maroo’s “Western Lane.” Edugyan said the choice of winner wasn't unanimous, but the six-hour judges’ meeting wasn't acrimonious. “We all ultimately felt that this was the book that we wanted to present to the world and that this was truly a masterful work of fiction,” she said. Founded in 1969, the Booker Prize is open to English-language novels from any country published in the U.K. and Ireland. and has a reputation for transforming writers’ careers. Previous winners include Ian McEwan, Margaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie and Hilary Mantel. Four Irish novelists and one from Northern Ireland have previously won the prize. “It is with immense pleasure that I bring the Booker home to Ireland,” Lynch said. Asked what he planned to do with the prize money, he said it would help him make payments on his tracker mortgage, which have soared along with inflation. Read more: Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood on Booker Prize list Lynch received his trophy from last year’s winner, Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka, during a ceremony at Old Billingsgate, a grand former Victorian fish market in central London. The evening included a speech from Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman who was jailed in Tehran for almost six years until 2022 on allegations of plotting the overthrow of Iran’s government — a charge that she, her supporters and rights groups denied. She talked about the books that sustained her in prison, recalling how inmates ran an underground library and circulated copies of Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale,” set in an oppressive American theocracy. “Books helped me to take refuge into the world of others when I was incapable of making one of my own,” Zaghari-Ratcliffe said. “They salvaged me by being one of the very few tools I had, together with imagination, to escape the Evin (prison) walls without physically moving.”

Jamdani saree, an emblem of Bangladeshi tradition, symbolises cultural richness and artisanal finesse. Distinguishing a real Jamdani from cheaper replicas necessitates keen attention to intricate details and a deep understanding of its defining characteristics. This ensures preservation of the material’s true essence and craftsmanship. Why Jamdani Saree is Unique The Jamdani saree originated from the Bengal region. It represents the pinnacle of meticulous craftsmanship. Crafted with fine cotton, it boasts intricate designs often inspired by nature or folklore, defining its renowned elegance and desirability.  An authentic Jamdani saree is a masterpiece. It showcases exquisite craftsmanship, with seamlessly woven intricate motifs that reflect the expertise of skilled artisans and the traditional weaving technique. This hallmark garment is coveted for its delicate patterns and holds an essence that resonates deeply with its authenticity. Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career Tips to Recognise an Authentic Jamdani Saree To discern the authenticity of a Jamdani saree, careful scrutiny of various elements is essential. Weaving The weave is a critical factor. Authentic Jamdani sarees are distinguished by their supplementary weft technique. It boasts flawless structure, free from loose threads or irregularities. They show the diligent interlacing of extra weft threads. An authentic Jamdani’s borders are a testament to supreme craftsmanship. They feature distinct patterns that complement the overall design flawlessly, devoid of fraying or uneven edges. Rough or uneven designs may hint at a saree's lack of authenticity. Read more: Gemstones Guide: Precious, Semi-precious Stones Used in Jewellery

Enjoying the unparalleled beauty of nature cannot be measured by any monetary value. However, everything in the world comes with a price, tourism is no exception. Though travelling costs are getting higher day by day, Bangladeshi tourists can visit overseas within a tight budget with proper planning and right information. Let's explore some popular international tourist attractions to visit with 10,000 taka. 10 Overseas Places to Visit from Bangladesh with a Budget of BDT 10,000 Cherrapunji This city, which is also called Sohra, is situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Notable attractions here include Mawsynram, the Double Decker Root Bridge, Mosmai Cave, and Mokdok View Point. Foreign visitors are drawn to enchanting waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, Thankharang Park, Mosmai Falls, Kalikai Falls, Rainbow Falls, Krangsuri Falls, and Seven Sisters Falls. To reach Sohra, travelers must take a train from Dhaka to Sylhet and then a bus to Tamabil. The minimum train fare from Dhaka to Sylhet is around BDT 400, and the bus journey from Sylhet to Tamabil costs BDT 35. Read more: 10 Most Affordable Destinations in Indonesia: Winter retreats on a budget Upon reaching Tamabil, complete Bangladesh immigration and cross-border checking at Indian customs. Subsequently, a taxi or minibus will leave for Shillong through Dauki Bazaar. Cherrapunji is a bit further, past the Wardslake gate of Shillong. For budget accommodation, homestays in Naingriat village can be arranged, with room rents for 4 people ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, approximately equal to BDT 1,330 to 2,000 (Rs 1 = BDT 1.33). The cost of food can range from Rs 160 to Rs 200 (approx. BDT 215 to BDT 266) per person per day. All in all, one can travel from Dhaka via Shillong to Cherrapunji and back to Dhaka in 3 days for around 8 to 9 thousand taka. Read more: Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways Delhi Delhi, the Indian capital on the banks of the river Yamuna, retains its popularity among travelers due to its historical significance. Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Red Fort, and Emperor Humayun's Tomb are among the city's prominent sightseeing spots. Dhaka residents can reach Delhi affordably by first taking a bus to Kolkata. A non-AC coach will cost around BDT 890 to BDT 900 per person. From Kolkata's Howrah, they need to take a train to Delhi, with a non-AC sleeper costing approximately Rs 650 to Rs 700 (close proximity to BDT 865 to BDT 931). Opting for a tour agency's sightseeing package, which typically costs Rs 300 to 500 per person (hovering near BDT 399 to BDT 665), is recommended. The average daily cost for food is Rs 390 (roughly BDT 519). Double-bed rooms in Paharganj can be found for Rs 500 to Rs 650 (approx. BDT 655 to BDT 865). Read more: Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Shimla The capital and largest city of Himachal Pradesh in North India is known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Places to visit in the picturesque city include Mall Road, The Ridge, Summer Hill, Viceroy Lodge, St. Michael's Cathedral, Himachal State Museum, and Jakhu. Budget visitors must first come to Kolkata from Dhaka by the ways mentioned earlier. A minimum of BDT 1,100 will be spent here along with the immigration process. After that, the explorers have to go to Howrah station in Kolkata as before. From there, the Kalka Mail train will take them to Kalka, for which the ticket price will be around Rs 710 (about BDT 945). Toy Train fare for Kalka to Shimla is Rs.50 (close to BDT 67). A room in Shimla can be rented for Rs 1,000 (near BDT 1,330), and food per day can cost Rs 194 (almost BDT 258) per person. Read more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh

Bloating is an uncomfortable sensation often caused by gas or indigestion and can significantly impact gut health. However, a natural and soothing remedy lies in the comforting world of teas. With their diverse flavours and healing properties, certain teas possess remarkable abilities to alleviate upset stomach and enhance digestion abilities. Let's explore ten teas that aid gut health and contribute to overall well-being. Best Herbal Teas to Relieve Bloating and Indigestion Peppermint Tea Peppermint tea, with its refreshing taste and soothing properties, is renowned for its ability to soothe an upset stomach and support digestion. Its menthol content relaxes digestive muscles, lessening gas and discomfort. This tea soothes the gut, alleviating discomfort and promoting a healthier digestive system. Moreover, it offers additional benefits such as freshening breath and providing relief from headaches. Brewing this remedy involves steeping peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. It offers a simple yet beneficial cup to support overall well-being. Read more: 10 Best Winter Teas to Fight Cold and Flu Ginger Tea Ginger tea boasts a zesty and revitalising taste. It serves as a reliable solution for excessive gas and digestive concerns. Its anti-inflammatory qualities effectively reduce digestive problems by calming the intestines. This tea actively supports gut health by alleviating digestive discomfort. Additionally, ginger tea offers benefits like providing relief from nausea and boosting immunity. Making this therapeutic drink involves steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water for 5-10 minutes. It creates a flavoursome concoction that aids digestion and keeps you fit. Dandelion Tea Dandelion tea is mildly bitter in taste yet effective. It enhances digestive functions and diminishes gas. Its natural diuretic properties reduce water retention and bloating. To prepare this cleansing infusion, steep dried dandelion roots or leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Besides aiding gut health, dandelion tea offers additional benefits such as detoxification and liver support. You may indulge in this beneficial brew for a mildly bitter yet cleansing drink to promote digestive wellness. Cardamom Tea Cardamom tea is famous for its aromatic and subtly spicy taste. It holds digestive properties that alleviate gas and discomfort. This tea aids in regulating digestive functions, supporting overall gut health. To prepare this flavoursome brew, steep cardamom pods or powder in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Besides aiding gut health, cardamom tea offers benefits such as freshening breath and providing antioxidants. Enjoy this aromatic infusion for digestive relief and a delightful beverage. Read more: Top 10 Kidney Cleansing Teas with Recipes Coriander Tea Coriander tea is famed for its mild and refreshing taste. It naturally aids in alleviating gut health. Its properties calm the stomach, easing gas and discomfort. It provides support for digestive good health. To make this tea, steep crushed coriander seeds in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Other than gut health, coriander tea offers benefits such as improving cholesterol levels and providing antioxidants. Embrace this soothing infusion for digestive comfort and overall health support.

Monsoon rains have finally passed and floods blocking the lone dirt road have retreated enough for a small truck to climb these Himalayan foothills to a gurgling spring. It spews water so fresh that people here call it nectar. Workers inside a small plant ferry sleek glass bottles along a conveyer. The bottles, filled with a whoosh of this natural mineral water, are labeled, packed into cases and placed inside a truck for a long ride. Ganesh Iyer, who heads the operation, watches like a nervous dad, later pulling out his phone, as any proud parent might, to show the underground cavern the waters have formed in this pristine kingdom, the world’s last Shangri-La. This is no ordinary water. It will travel hundreds of miles to some of India’s luxury hotels, restaurants and richest families, who pay about $6 per bottle, roughly a day’s wage for an Indian laborer. Millions of people worldwide don’t have clean water to drink, even though the United Nations deemed water a basic human right more than a decade ago. Yet, even as extreme heat dries up more aquifers and wells and leaves more people thirsty, luxury water has become fashionable among the world’s privileged, who uncap and taste it like fine wine. This “fine water” is drawn from volcanic rock in Hawaii, from icebergs that have fallen from melting glaciers in Norway, or from droplets of morning mist in Tasmania. Connoisseurs, some who study to become water sommeliers, insist this trend isn’t about snobbishness. They appreciate the purest of the pure. “Water is not just water,” says Michael Mascha, a founder of the Fine Water Society, a consortium of small bottlers and distributors worldwide. He likens consumers of high-end water to foodies who’d drive miles to find heirloom tomatoes or a rare salt. Some drink fine water instead of alcohol. “Having the right stemware, drinking at the right temperature, pairing it with food, celebrating with water – all those kinds of things are important.” As a truck rolls out of the Bhutanese bottling plant, operated by Veen Waters India, the 40-some line workers take a tea break along a short row of employee housing. They check their mobile phones and chat, while birds chirp in the background. Laundry hung out to dry flaps in a subtle breeze. It’s a steamy day, even at this higher elevation. Up a hillside behind them is a mineral spring, once a source of fresh water for nearby villagers, who used bamboo rods as pipes to help funnel some of the steadily flowing clear current into buckets they carried home. Now that source, which Veen purchased from the previous owner more than a decade ago, is kept behind a locked gate for safekeeping. Veen’s business slowed to a trickle during the pandemic, says Iyer, Veen’s managing partner. But now the company is exporting about 20,000 cases — or 240,000 bottles — of the water into India each month, minus the occasional few that break on their bumpy multiple-day trek. He figures they’ve tapped only about 10% of the potential market so far. After crossing into India, the trucks carrying the bottled water run through lush green Darjeeling tea plantations, past road signs marking elephant crossings and the occasional cluster of teenage boys cooling off in a rain catchment next to rural villages dotted with banana trees. Eventually, the cases are delivered to luxury hotels and restaurants many hundreds of miles away in cities like New Delhi, Pune and Mumbai, where Veen is headquartered. A few wealthy families get weekly shipments. Iyer jokes that the richest of the rich buy so much that they “probably bathe in it.” Market reports predict even greater demand for premium water worldwide in years to come. In India — now the most populous country in the world, with a rising standard of living and growing concerns about water quality — Veen is poised to help satisfy that demand. For many Indians, however, the story of water is very different, including in Mumbai’s Dharavi neighborhood, one of Asia’s largest slums, jammed with working families. There, water arrives in municipal pipelines just once a day, from about 6 to 9 a.m., setting off a flurry of activity as the day’s crushing heat arrives in spring and summer. The three-hour window for water shapes the neighborhood’s rituals. Men in shorts or underwear lather up in a bath area. Their upbeat banter is constant as they prepare for the day. Residents of this labyrinth of narrow alleyways and small homes brush their teeth while standing on front porches, spitting toothpaste into water that runs along the uneven blocks of concrete on the ground. They fill up buckets and reclaimed bottles to keep water at home. A few women wash aluminum pots and pans or briskly scrub T-shirts, scarves and other clothing. Still others are more desperate, such as Rekha Nagesh Pawar, who lives with her four children in a tent made out of blue plastic tarps along a busy Mumbai roadway. The water she gets from a neighbor, when he’s feeling charitable, has been siphoned illegally from a public system with a garden hose. She says her husband, a mason, died from a heart attack in 2021, leaving her to beg for money for food. She frets that there’s often not enough water to bathe her children or wash their clothes. “We have to live in filth,” the weary-eyed woman says. It’s hard for her to fathom that someone would pay a day’s wages for a bottle of fancy water. Veen is far from the most expensive in the fine water category. The rarest of all, often bottled in collectable glass, sell for hundreds of dollars apiece. This scene was on full display when members of the Fine Water Society gathered in April at a swanky hotel in Athens, Greece, for their annual international tasting competition and symposium. With bottles and glasses lined up before them, judges from several countries sampled various brands, swishing gulps of water and sometimes spitting mouthfuls into canisters, as wine tasters do. Spectators seated before them watched intently. Many were bottlers who’d come to compete. The judges flipped cards to indicate their scores for each entrant: 92, 98, and so on. “Who wins here? It’s really sometimes very hard to predict,” says Mascha, who served as a judge. “There’s always a sleeper.” Twenty years ago, people mocked his fascination with water, which grew from his doctor’s insistence that he quit drinking alcohol. He searched for alternatives that might enrapture him the same way a complex bottle of cabernet once had. As he tried more waters from small batch bottlers, he discovered like-minded water devotees. That group has only grown. They discuss “virginality,” or purity. They learn about “terroir,” the environment in which water originates. They compare the total dissolved solids, or TDS. Waters with low TDS are more like rainwater that hasn’t touched the earth. Those with high TDS — such as Vichy mineral water from thermal springs in France and Catalan — have robust mineral content that may include calcium, magnesium, potassium or sodium, among others. A few restaurants in countries such as Spain and the United States now have menus that pair food with particular types of fine water. A bolder mineral water, for instance, might be suggested as a companion for a charbroiled steak. More subtle rainwater might be paired with fish. This year’s champions in each category, from still water to sparkling and super-low minerality to high, came from Austria, New Zealand, Panama, Scandinavia and other parts of the world. Awards, however, do not guarantee success in what can be a very competitive business, especially for the mom-and-pop bottlers. “Every brand has to find its unique selling point,” says Jamal Qureshi, founder of the now-defunct Svalbardi Polar Iceberg Water, based on the far-north Norwegian island of Svalbard. “If it’s just like, ‘Oh, you know, we’re a special water from wherever,’ it’s hard to stand out.” His company, once a rising star in the fine water scene and winner of awards, sold melted Arctic icebergs, bottled in fancy glass containers, online. The idea was to harvest small floating remnants of glaciers to tell the story of climate change, the proliferation of greenhouse gases and its direct impact on the disappearing Arctic landscape. People paid $100 (US) for a bottle of Svalbardi. Often, the company sold out. Then in late 2020, a shipment of 15,000 empty bottles from a supplier arrived broken and scratched, forcing the fledgling company to close down. Without its opulent packaging, the average consumer might fail to taste the difference in these waters. Even sommeliers say it can take months of practice to determine the subtleties. “Please smell my water and tell me how good or bad it is,” people sometimes tease Iyer, of Veen, when they learn he’s a certified water sommelier — India’s first, he says. He takes no offense. But Mascha, of the Fine Water Society, is quick to differentiate fine water from “mega-corporations that exploit water.” Water sold in clear plastic bottles that are ubiquitous the world over is often simply filtered municipal water that’s distilled and bottled from any number of sources. In many instances, Mascha says, a water filter on your tap would produce the same result, with far less impact on the environment. When it comes to fine water, he says natural spring water, for instance, must come from a single source and be bottled near that source. He calls the bottlers in his society small “water farmers.” Solutions to the world’s water problems won’t come easily. That is the reality of life in water-stressed countries like India, a country that has 18% of the world’s population, but only 4% of its water, according to the World Bank. Water shortages have sparked protests and conflict. Last year, a man was stabbed and killed in a fight over water in the town of Aurangabad, north of Mumbai. The Indian government has promised that every household will soon have plumbing and running water — a goal set for this year that has yet to be reached. “But just because we spend money and put the pipes in, doesn’t mean that people will actually have water in their taps,” says Veena Srinivasan, executive director of WELL Labs, a research institution in Bengaluru, India, that studies water sustainability. Climate change has only worsened droughts and heatwaves and put more pressure on India’s underground aquifers, as well as rivers that also are polluted by industry, farming and sewage. India is among many countries that have built huge plants to desalinate sea water. Others, including Singapore, are collecting and cleaning up storm and wastewater to try to solve their water woes. But solutions like those are in their infancy in many countries, if they exist at all. That means the commodification of water, and those who profit from it, are likely to become more contentious. Fine water is certainly a commodity too, though its connoisseurs and those who bottle often speak of the importance of respecting and conserving an increasingly precious resource. Even for them, luxury water is often just that – a luxury. Iyer only drinks Veen when out at a restaurant. At home, he and his wife consume tap water after boiling it. As many do, he likes to store it in a matka, an Indian red clay pot that is a water cooler. He also still bathes with a bucket, while sitting on a stool, a common Indian custom that also saves water. “On one hand, we consider water to be holy and divine,” Iyer says. “But we take it for granted. We believe water will always be there.” In Bhutan, Buddhist prayer flags are a common sight -- squares of five colors, strung along bridges and at meditation stops next to scenic mountain roadways. Blue represents space. Red is for fire; yellow is earth; white is air. Green symbolizes water, a revered resource in a country known for its environmental stewardship. It is a common custom to place the purest spring water in bowls as a sacred offering in a home or a temple. Water also has economic benefits for the kingdom, where an abundance of rivers and a small population of about 700,000 mean there is a surplus of hydroelectricity to export, much of it to neighboring India. Here, water is both pure, and powerful. Tshering Bumpa, the longtime manager of the Veen bottling facility, understands the significance. “We are so proud of our water,” says Bumpa, who has dressed in colorful Bhutanese traditional garments to welcome rare visitors to this remote spot in the jungle. There is enough water to share. At least for now.