lifestyle
Tazmin’s first solo exhibition ‘Mayhem of Life’ held at Midas Center
The first solo photography exhibition by Tazmin Haider titled ‘Mayhem of Life’ was recently held at Midas Centre in the capital’s Dhanmondi.
The exhibition featured 53 photographs taken by Tazmin. In addition, five of her paintings were also showcased in this exhibition.
All profits obtained from the exhibition were donated to the IraMon Foundation to help the oppressed and helpless people of society, according to a press release.
Regarding the exhibition, Tazmin said, “A picture tells more than a thousand words. In a sentence that cannot be expressed in words, it is easy to express this sentence through pictures. Each photo has its own story that needs to be told."
“There were many stories of the society that were hidden in my pictures which were displayed at the exhibition. Each viewer perceives it from their perspective,” she added.
The exhibition was attended by popular fiction maker Mabrur Rashid Bannah, YouTuber Prottoy Heron, actors Shaon, Toya, Rashed Shemanto, director Topu Khan, and other personalities from various fields.
Tazmin Haider is a student in class 10. Her father Haider Akbar Munna is a media personality and vice chairman of Youth Group.
Why are Suicide Rates Higher Among Men?
Suicide is a tragic and complex phenomenon that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Mental health negligence, particularly concerning men, has become a pressing concern. Despite increasing awareness of mental health issues, men often face unique challenges that make them more vulnerable to suicide. This article delves into the various factors contributing to this troubling trend.
Global and Local Statistics of Suicide: Male vs Female
Females, especially those under 25, exhibit higher rates of non-fatal suicidal behaviour and suicidal ideation, and attempt suicide more frequently. But, in reality, males have a significantly higher rate of completing suicide than females. This phenomenon is commonly known as the gender paradox in suicide.
Around the world, more men than women die by suicide. According to Wikipedia, in 2008 and 2015, the number of male suicides was about 1.8 to 1.7 times higher than female suicides globally. In Western countries, men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide compared to women. In 2015, around two-thirds of global suicide deaths (representing about 1.5% of total deaths) were among men.
Data from The National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) in the USA for 2016 revealed that for every female suicide, there were about 3.5 male suicides. However, in China, the rates of suicide between men and women were almost the same. The male vs female suicide ratio is 9.1:10.3.
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In 2019, the rate of suicide deaths among males was over 3.5 times higher than that among females. By 2021, this disproportionate rate increased to over 3.9 times higher.
According to the CDC, in the USA, men experienced a suicide rate four times higher than that of women in 2021-2022.
In Bangladesh, the scenario is quite the same – more men than women commit suicide here. In 2017, there were over 11,000 recorded suicides. The average age for male suicide victims was about 28.86 years, while for females, it was about 25.31 years old.
In 2019, 3.70 people took their own lives out of every 100,000 people in Bangladesh. The male suicide rate was 5.70 while the number is 1.70 for females. Also, the police records indicate a rising trend in suicides over the years. At the same time, psychologists estimate that around 11,000 people end their lives annually in Bangladesh.
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‘Fearless Call 3’: Bangabandhu’s historic speech at the UN echoes through engaging artwork
In 1974, the 29th UN General Assembly, witnessed a historic and powerful speech — on the need for non-violent and peaceful politics — that still bears remedy to the current state of chaos and conflict ravaging countries and taking a devastating toll on millions of lives. It was the brightest moment for Bangladesh on the global stage, within years of its independence.
Before an assembly attended by as many as 138 leaders, the impact of a newly formed nation was on full display, thanks to the call for the greater humanitarian cause by the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Now five decades down the line, that message of global peace, humanity and freedom resonates in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 32 as Center for Research and Information (CRI) has rolled out an exciting and profound exhibition themed on the relevance of the speech.
As a tribute to the Father of the Nation on his birth anniversary, CRI’s month-long exhibition drew a gathering of a diverse group.
Lawmaker Nahim Razzaq and several members of CRI team alongside family members of martyred intellectuals inaugurated the event.
Dhaka Flow's festival celebrating Women's Day provides a much-needed space for wellness
Chhayanaut organises 'Deshghorer Gaan' in memory of Waheedul Haque
Cultural institution Chhayanaut organised its special commemorative event 'Deshghorer Gaan' on Saturday, in memory of its founding member and the country's esteemed cultural personality Waheedul Haque.
The event commemorated the 91st anniversary of the legendary cultural icon, who mobilised public support against the anti-Tagore hate campaigns of the then-Ayub regime and founded Chhayanaut with like-minded people in 1961 on the occasion of the birth centenary of Rabindranath Tagore.
Prominent folk singer Kanan Bala Sarkar inaugurated the event at the Chhayanaut auditorium on Saturday.
The event featured regional songs by esteemed local artists, including Gurupada Gupta (Khulna), Badal Rahman (Patuakhali), Jayita Arpa (Mymensingh), Bimalendu Dash (Habiganj) and the guest of the event Kanan Bala Sarkar.
In addition, Eidu Boyati and his team from Jamalpur delivered 'Kichhapala' performances at the event.
Chhayanaut Joint Secretary Jayanta Roy delivered the welcome speech at the event, while its General Secretary Laisa Ahmed Lisa delivered the vote of thanks.
Homemade Instant Powdered Fruit Drink Recipes for Iftar
During the holy month of Ramadan, after a long day of fasting, the tradition of breaking fast, or Iftar, often involves enjoying refreshing beverages. Among these, instant powdered fruit drinks are a popular choice due to their refreshing flavours and instant preparation. However, commercially produced powdered drinks can contain artificial additives and excessive sugar, which may not align with dietary preferences or health goals. Thankfully, making homemade powdered fruit drinks provides a healthier alternative, offering control over ingredients and customisation of flavours.
Why Avoid Commercially Produced Instant Powdered Fruit Drinks?
Commercially produced powdered fruit drinks often contain artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, and high amounts of sugar. Consuming such additives regularly may lead to adverse health effects, including increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
Additionally, individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences may find it challenging to locate suitable options among commercially available powdered drink varieties. Homemade powdered fruit drinks allow for the exclusion of unwanted additives and customisation according to personal taste and nutritional requirements.
Read more: Reasons Why Ramadan Fasting is More Beneficial Than Dieting
How to Make Instant Powdered Fruit Drinks at Home
Mango Powder
Ingredients
1 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons of glucose powder, 1 teaspoon mango emulsion, 1 teaspoon citric acid, and ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
First, in a mixer jar, pour sugar and add 2 tablespoons of glucose powder, mango emulsion, a quarter teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of citric acid. Grind the ingredients together until they achieve a fine powder consistency. Your homemade mango mix is now ready.
Transfer it into an airtight jar for storage. To serve, simply mix one tablespoon of the mango powder with 200 ml of water, add some ice cubes, stir well, and enjoy the refreshing taste.
Read more: Iftar Items, Recipes for Ramadan in Bangladesh
Orange Powder
Ingredients
1.5 cups sugar, 1 cup orange glucose, 1 teaspoon citric acid, a pinch of salt, 4-5 drops of orange fruit colour, and ½ teaspoon orange essence.
Reasons Why Ramadan Fasting is More Beneficial Than Dieting
In pursuing a healthier lifestyle, the choice between Ramadan fasting and traditional dieting holds significance. Both practices impact health and eating habits, but which one emerges as the more beneficial option? Let's embark on a journey exploring the nuances of these two approaches and their impact on well-being.
Benefits of Month-long Fasting during Ramadan
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Holistic Detoxification
Ramadan fasting goes beyond the typical notion of dieting for weight loss. It involves a unique detoxification process where the body undergoes a thorough internal cleansing. The fasting period allows organs to rest and rejuvenate which promotes optimal functioning and contributes to overall health.
Mindful Eating and Discipline
Unlike conventional dieting, which solely focuses on restricting calories, Ramadan fasting instils a sense of discipline and mindfulness in eating habits. The structured nature of fasting encourages individuals to be more aware of what and how much they consume. Thus, Ramadan fosters a healthier relationship with food in the long run.
Read more: Healthy Sehri Meal Recipes for Ramadan Fasting
Spiritual and Emotional Well-being
Ramadan fasting is more than just a physical practice; it is deeply rooted in spirituality. The act of fasting is not only an exercise for the body but also for the mind and soul. This spiritual dimension contributes to emotional well-being and enhances a sense of inner peace, gratitude, and resilience.
Community Support and Bonding
One of the distinctive aspects of Ramadan fasting is its communal nature. Individuals come together to fast and create a supportive environment beyond personal discipline. This sense of community support and bonding provides emotional strength and motivation, elements often lacking in individualistic dieting journeys.
Sustainable Lifestyle Changes
Month-long fasting during the holy Ramadan encourages a holistic approach to health that extends beyond the month of fasting. The discipline and mindful eating habits cultivated during Ramadan can translate into sustainable lifestyle changes. This helps individuals maintain a balanced and health-conscious approach to nutrition throughout the year.
Read more: Ramadan Fasting with Diabetes: Best foods for Sehri and Iftar
Balanced Nutritional Intake
While dieting may sometimes lead to nutrient imbalances or deficiencies, Ramadan fasting emphasises a balanced nutritional intake. The pre-dawn and post-sunset meals, suhoor and iftar, are carefully planned to include a variety of food groups which ensures that the body receives essential nutrients.
Improved Digestion
The intermittent fasting pattern during Ramadan allows the digestive system to rest and function more efficiently. This can lead to improved digestion, absorption of nutrients, and a reduction in digestive issues, contributing to better health.
Controls Blood Sugar
During Ramadan fasting, insulin sensitivity can improve, lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes. When cells become unresponsive to insulin, insulin resistance can develop – a precursor to diabetes. Fasting prompts the body to use stored glucose for energy, reduces glucose levels, and enhances insulin sensitivity.
Read more: Healthy Iftar Meal Recipes for Breaking Ramadan Fasting
Promotes Weight Loss
Fasting aids weight loss by regulating portion sizes and cutting calorie intake. However, it is crucial to avoid overeating after fasting periods to maintain progress. Sustaining healthy eating habits and exercise during non-fasting hours is vital for lasting weight loss. Ramadan fasting offers a chance to reset eating patterns and foster healthier food relationships.
Good for Cardiac Health
Ramadan fasting positively affects heart health by decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and enhancing blood circulation. This minimises the risk of heart disease and stroke. Those with existing heart conditions should seek medical advice before fasting, ensuring it aligns with their health needs.
Improves Brain Function
Ramadan fasting boosts cognitive performance and brain function notably by elevating the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein fosters brain cell growth and survival, heightening memory, learning, and mental clarity.
Read more: Ramadan Fasting Benefits: Impacts on health when you fast for 16 hours
Increases Growth Hormone Secretion
During Ramadan fasting, the body's growth hormone secretion is naturally enhanced. Research indicates that fasting increases human growth hormone (HGH) levels. This hormonal surge supports metabolism, aids weight loss, and promotes muscle growth, contributing to health benefits during the fasting period.
Could Extend Longevity
Examining periodic fasting's impact on the human gut, a study observed an increased diversity of beneficial gut bacteria, notably Christensenella species linked to longevity. Additionally, researchers identified heightened sirtuin levels, proteins crucial for metabolic regulation and longevity. Further research is essential to grasp fasting's longevity effects and identify optimal fasting protocols.
Reducing Cancer Risk
The American Cancer Society Journal suggests intermittent fasting could aid cancer treatment and prevention by reducing tumour growth and chemotherapy toxicity in certain cases. However, they stress the necessity for more robust clinical trials and advise cancer patients to undertake intermittent fasting within clinical settings. Further research is imperative to comprehensively understand fasting's impact on cancer.
Read more: 10 Healthy Iftar Drinks for Breaking Ramadan Fasting
Celebrating wellness and women’s empowerment: Dhaka Flow’s weekend festival draws over 10,000 participants
The pioneering wellness platform Dhaka Flow, in collaboration with Baridhara Society, hosted a transformative two-day festival of yoga and wellness at the scenic Baridhara Society Park last weekend. The festival – titled “Inspire Her Wellness” – designed to honour Women’s Day, offered attendees a holistic experience centred on movement, mindfulness, health, nature, and community, free of charge.
The event showcased a rich tapestry of activities, attracting over 10,000 wellness enthusiasts and experts alike, converging to explore and exchange knowledge on health, well-being, climate change, and the empowerment of women entrepreneurs, according to a media release.
Dhaka North City Corporation Mayor, Atiqul Islam, set a positive tone for the festival’s second day, emphasising the significance of utilising community parks for wellness initiatives. Chief Guest and State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid later highlighted the crucial role of healthy living, urging the youth to adopt lifestyle tips from Dhaka Flow’s extensive offerings.
Shazia Omar, co-founder of Dhaka Flow and a celebrated yogini, shared her insights on holistic wellness, “Being holistically well offers us a different kind of freedom. It not only improves our quality of life and longevity, but also gives us the ability to stay grounded in the present moment, free from the prison of past regrets, future worries, illness, disease and negative thoughts.”
On Friday, the festival featured a Gratitude Tree Planting session with Shakti Foundation’s Labiba Rahman, and Baridhara Society President, Feroz Hassan. Another session was on Money Matters, powered by Brac Bank Tara, where moderator Shahirah Majumdar asked Zareen Karim, MD of Orion Group; Dilruba Chowdhury, Director of East Coast Group; Mehruba Reza, SVP of Brac Bank TARA; and Shamima Akhtar, Director at Unilever, about how to achieve financial freedom. Later Ghaashphoring Choir, led by Emmy-nominee Armeen Musa, saw hundreds of people in a circle, singing Rabindra Sangeet under a canopy of trees.
The art zone featured Gallery Cosmos, highlighting carefully curated 20 women artists and ‘Art Therapy through Printmaking’ by renowned artist Rokeya Sultana. The festival also featured a Sufi whirling class and a journaling session with Dhaka Flow’s ‘Flow Within’ journal featuring poetry by Jalaluddin Rumi. The meditation garden featured day-long mindfulness sessions as well as support group sessions on topics such as coping with chronic pain, cancer, depression, grief and addiction, thriving with children on the spectrum, and much more, in the hope that rather than suffering in isolation people can come together to be stronger as a community.
The festival contained a mela of 75 vendors, all of whom were women-owned businesses. The festival prioritised an environmentally-conscious approach, with no plastic waste, nourishing vegetarian foods, and free activities for all. It was sponsored by leading private sector organisations, to promote healthy living in the community: Brac Bank TARA, Suzuki Motorbikes, Turaag Active, BTi, and Ispahani Blender’s Choice Premium Tea.
Dhaka Flow is committed to a mission of wellness for all. For more information on holistic wellbeing and to register for classes or retreats with Dhaka Flow, please visit www.dhakaflow.com, and follow the social media @dhakaflowofficial.
Why Making and Keeping Friends is Harder as an Adult
Children can make new friends easily. But as an individual passes childhood and adolescence, the circle of friends becomes smaller. And, reaching a mature age, many people discover that it’s not easy anymore to find true friendships. Entering adulthood brings a myriad of responsibilities and often causes a shift in priorities. While friendships are cherished, making new connections becomes notably challenging. This article delves into the intricacies of forming friendships in adulthood while exploring the hurdles many grown-up people face in this endeavour.
Why is it Difficult to Develop News Friendship at a Mature Age?
Changing Dynamics in Adulthood
When a person enters professional life and eventually starts a family, responsibilities take centre stage. Then day by day issues like career, conjugal life, children, and other personal pursuits become focal points of that person’s life, leaving less time and energy for socialising. The shift in priorities can lead to a natural distancing from the spontaneous social interactions that characterise youth.
Established Social Circles
Entering established friend groups can be challenging. Long-lasting friendships often have a shared history which makes it harder for newcomers to find common ground. Breaking into these circles demands effort and a willingness to navigate existing dynamics.
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Fear of Rejection
The fear of rejection intensifies with age. Mature individuals may hesitate to initiate friendships and fear that others may not reciprocate. This fear is rooted in the vulnerability of opening oneself to potential rejection which makes the process more daunting.
Communication Styles
Differences in communication styles between individuals can pose obstacles. Due to professionalism and social norms, adults usually maintain distinct approaches to conservation and socialising with new people they meet.
However, an indecent approach or over-enthusiasm to create a connection with new people may lead to misunderstandings or discomfort. Navigating the decent and right way of communication requires patience and adaptability.
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Limited Opportunities
Studies indicate that, on average, it requires approximately 50 hours to form a casual friendship, while developing close friendships demands an investment of around 200 hours. As responsibilities pile up, opportunities for socialising diminish.
Work demands, family commitments, and other obligations leave little room for older adults to make spontaneous social encounters. As a result, finding time to nurture new friendships becomes a rare occurrence.
Preconceived Notions
When a child makes a new friend, it starts with a pure mind without prejudice. But it rarely happens in the case of mature persons.
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Preconceived notions about individuals’ geographical, religious, political or social identity can hinder the formation of friendships among adults. Stereotypes and expectations based on age can create barriers and prevent people from seeing beyond assumptions and embracing the potential for meaningful connections.
Building Trust Takes Time
Trust is one of the most crucial elements of any friendship, and it tends to take longer to develop in mature relationships. Past experiences, caution, and a heightened awareness of personal boundaries contribute to the gradual nature of trust-building.
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh holds ‘Fashion and Lifestyle Marketing Fest’ in Dhaka
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh held a ‘Fashion and Lifestyle Marketing Fest’ at the Westin Dhaka on Saturday night.
The event brought together 34 illustrious speakers from diverse realms of the fashion industry, delivering profound insights across eight pivotal sessions.
A crowning moment of the event was the unveiling of the fourth edition of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh's magazine, ‘Business Brillianz’. This edition chronicles the illustrious journey and contributions of Syed Manzur Elahi, Chairman of the Board of Apex Footwear Limited, a titan in Bangladesh's business landscape.
Hadi Chowdhury, Head of Retail Operations of YELLOW, the event's title sponsor, exuded pride in their association, remarking, “We are honoured to be the title partner of this fest, addressing pivotal issues in contemporary fashion and lifestyle marketing and business promotion. YELLOW, synonymous with unparalleled quality, has been a stalwart in product manufacturing since its inception.”
Mirza Muhammad Ileush, Founder and CEO of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh, articulated the organization's unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability within the fashion and lifestyle industry. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, envisioning a future brimming with impactful marketing fests aimed at showcasing Bangladesh's unique fashion identity on a global stage.
In the closing speech, Shohrab Hossain Guddu of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh extended warm appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and partners, underscoring the fest's collaborative spirit and shared dedication to industry advancement.
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh is a pioneering entity dedicated to nurturing excellence in marketing and brand management. Through a diverse array of initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and networking events, the organization empowers professionals to navigate the ever evolving landscape of marketing with finesse and creativity.
Poetry recitation programme 'Aparajitar Kabbo' held in Dhaka
'Aparajitar Kabbo' a poetry recitation programme was held at Madar Teresa Bhaban in Dhaka's Tejgaon marking International Women's Day on Saturday.
The programme was organised by Jalaknya and conducted by its owner Suporna Alice Gomes.
A flock of reciters, including famous writer Jharna Rahman and photojournalist Sabina Yasmin participated in the programme.
In the event, eleven men and women recited various poems. They are Mahi Farhana, Nishat Sarmin Jasmine, Swapna Bernadette Francis, Mahbuba Sultana, Falguni De Costa, Nilim Ahsan, Tasnuva Orin, Nusrat Nusin, Suporna Alice Gomes, Khokon Koraya and Javade Hussain.
Sabina Yasmin said, "There was no obstacle to my work as a photojournalist from my family. However, while going to work, I face so many obstacles. But, I always try to get everyone's cooperation by treating everyone politely and I am going ahead with my work."
“As a female photojournalist, I am going through my work facing new challenges,” she added.
Jharna Rahman said, “We all grow up with separate identities. First of all, I am a human being, then I am someone's daughter, someone's wife, someone's mother. We all have a unique identity and we grow up this and work for family and society.”