Lifestyle
'Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time, and Art Form:' Ahmad Bashir’s book launched at AFD
Writer Ahmad Bashir’s new book “Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time, and Art Form” was launched on Friday at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), Dhanmondi in the capital.
A discussion followed the book launch, joined by film critic Anupam Hayat, researcher Kazal Rashid Shahin, film researcher Mir Shamsul Alam Baboo, film teacher Shakila Parveen, and editor Foysal Ahmed.
The book "Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time and Art Form’ (2023)" is Ahmad Bashir’s recent publication where he has attempted to analyze the influence of film in shaping the cultural development of Bangladesh. This intellectual inquiry includes the chronological development of the country's film genre, the social context that the media has captured in the last few decades, and their attempt to create a national integrity and value system.
A contemporary novelist and short story writer in Bangladesh, Ahmad Bashir published five novels and a dozen short-story collections, as well as literary criticism and children's books throughout his career. His fictions are distinguished by its attention to the concerns, passions, and suffering of middle-class and marginal people in the country.
His first book of short stories, “Anno Patabhumi (Another Background)," was published in 1981, and received the Humayun Kadir Literature Award of that year. In 1987, his first novel was published in the monthly magazine of the Bangla Academy.
In 1987, Bangla Academy published his translation book “Around the World in Eighty Days” - the world-famous novel of French novelist Jule Verne, which was re-published recently (2024) by another famous publisher.
Other famous books of the writer are ‘Tithidor (A Time for Union - 2016),’ ‘Mudrarakhhash (The Demon of Money - 2019),’ ‘Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time and Art Form’ (2023)’ and ‘Trishanku (Nowhere to Go - 2024).’
First-ever International Disability Art Festival begins
International Disability Art Festival 2024, the culmination event of the British Council’s long-standing work in disability arts in Bangladesh, began at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Friday.
The event will end on April 27.
The inauguration of the event was held at 3:00 pm, followed by an inclusive theatre performance, ’71 in Silence, to commemorate the liberation war.
The festival included an exhibition titled’ Odommo Shilpotshob’(Indomitable Art Festival) which was Curated by IID, the exhibition featured diverse artwork spanning music, painting, sculpture, and more. Also there was theatre performances, panel discussions, film screenings, and a marketplace.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Dr Dipu Moni, Minister of Social Welfare, Government of Bangladesh; Matt Cannell, Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission in Bangladesh; Jenny Sealey, Artistic Director, Graeae Theatre Company; Shannon West, Director Bangladesh (interim), British Council; Nasiruddin Yousuff, Founder and Director, Dhaka Theatre; and Syeed Ahamed, Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Informatics and Development (IID). Naheed Ezaher Khan, State Minister of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, will attend the closing ceremony.
International Disability Art Festival is part of the British Council’s project DARE (Disability Arts: Redefining Empowerment). DARE is a multilayer project aimed at developing the understanding and confidence among disabled people and the arts sector in Bangladesh. The project aims to bridge the gap between people with disabilities and the broader society. It was launched in 2019 in partnership with Dhaka Theatre and IID (Institute of Informatics and Development).
On the first day, guests were invited to attend and watch five theatre productions: ’71 in Silence by Ramesh Meyyappan, ‘Circus Circus’ by Mostafiz Shahin, ‘Tribeni’ by Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed, ‘Kendro Borabor Shurongotir Naam Prithibi’ by Esha Yousuf and Rafiqul Islam, and ‘WASTELAND - A Journey’ by Sanjay Ganguly, director, Jana Sanskriti Centre for Theatre of the Oppressed, Kolkata. One panel discussion took place on the first day, titled ‘Disability Representation in the Art Sector’, which addressed the underrepresentation of people with disabilities in multiple spheres of society, including arts.
On the concluding day, the rest of the five theatre productions will take place: ‘Otopor Karim Bawali’ by Shamim Sagar, ‘Shongoti’ by Samiun Jahan Dola, ‘Kajol Rekha’ by Al Zabir, ‘Pittrigon’ by Dr. Aamir Zaman, and ‘Shwapno Kahon’ by Ashim Das. Participants can attend two panel discussions: ‘Breaking Barriers for Accessible Arts’ and ‘Funding Inclusion for Disability Arts’. The ‘Breaking Barriers for Accessible Arts’ titled panel discussion will identify and address the barriers that people with disabilities face in accessing cultural and artistic opportunities.
Dr. Dipu Moni said, “Although people with disabilities face various physical and mental challenges, most of them are not any less capable than others in terms of intelligence and creativity. In fact, in many cases, they are more creative than others if we can create opportunities for them. On behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, I would like to thank and congratulate the British Council, Dhaka Theatre, IID, and everyone involved in this unique event.”
Matt Cannell, Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission in Bangladesh said, “The UK works across the globe to support people with disabilities and marginalised and under-represented groups exercise and enjoy their full rights and freedoms, on an equal basis. The British Council’s DARE (Disability Arts: Redefining Empowerment) project, and the festival, is a great opportunity for us to redouble our efforts to forge a more inclusive world and celebrate the talents and achievements of people living with disabilities here in Bangladesh.”
Shannon West, Director Bangladesh (interim), British Council said, ‘We are extremely proud to inaugurate the International Disability Art Theatre Festival 2024 today, which is the culmination event of our longstanding work through project DARE. Since 2019 our DARE project has connected the UK and Bangladesh and supported building capacity for Bangladeshi theatre organisations and DARE artists nationwide, fostering inclusive practices, advocating for policy change, and ensuring accessibility for disabled artists at institutions like the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. We thank all our partners and the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) for their positivity and support for mainstreaming disability art theatre in Bangladesh.
Nasiruddin Yousuff, Founder of Dhaka Theatre, said, ‘Today we are proud to share that Dhaka Theatre has been a pivotal part of the journey of integrating disability art with the mainstream theatre in Bangladesh since 2013. Despite myriad challenges, each day presenting new hurdles, through unwavering dedication and collaborative synergy among disabled artists, trainers, the British Council, and the Dhaka Theatre team, remarkable strides have been made, and the International Disability Arts Festival 2024 is a testament to it.”
The event allowed guests to immerse themselves in the world of disability art, gaining knowledge about the artists’ journey and the barriers they overcome.
Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat
The scorching heat of summer can be relentless, making it essential to find ways to stay cool and hydrated. While the allure of roadside summer drinks is undeniable, they often come with health risks due to questionable ingredients and hygiene standards. Fortunately, there is a safer and more delicious alternative – homemade sherbets. Let's explore 10 revitalising sherbet recipes to try this summer to fight heat related illnesses.
10 Homemade Sherbet Recipes to Beat Dehydration This Summer
Raw Mango Sherbet
Aam Panna, or raw mango sherbet, is a quintessential summer drink in Bangladesh for combating the sweltering heat packed with both flavour and health benefits. Made from raw mangoes, it presents a tantalising blend of tartness and sweetness. This refreshing beverage is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining hydration and boosting immunity.
To make Aam Panna, simply blend raw boiled, peeled mangoes with mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, sugar, and water until smooth. To impart a smoky nuance, consider roasting the mangoes beforehand. Serve chilled over ice for a revitalising treat that not only quenches thirst but also replenishes electrolytes and provides a burst of tropical goodness.
Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke
Tamarind Sherbet
Tamarind sherbet offers a tangy and refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat. Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium it offers a sweet-tart punch. It aids in replenishing electrolytes lost during sweating, thus combating dehydration.
To prepare this invigorating drink, combine tamarind pulp with water, sugar or honey, and a dash of salt. Allow the mixture to steep with a cinnamon stick, then strain and chill before serving over ice. Indulge in the zesty flavour and hydrating benefits of tamarind sherbet to stay cool and refreshed all summer long.
Rose Petal Sherbet
Rose petal sherbet embodies a fragrant and floral essence, offering a delightful respite from summer's heat. While lower in electrolytes than some options, it can provide some hydration and is a lovely source of antioxidants. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports hydration and boosts immunity.
Read more: Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables
To concoct this rejuvenating elixir, steep fresh rose petals in water, then strain and mix with sugar or honey and a splash of lemon juice. Serve chilled over ice for a cooling sensation that not only tantalises the taste buds but also replenishes vital fluids lost through perspiration. Sip on rose petal sherbet to invigorate your senses and combat dehydration effortlessly.
Bael Sherbet
Bael sherbet, a summer delight, boasts a unique flavour and impressive health benefits. Made with the pulp of the wood apple (bael), it offers a sweet-tart taste with a hint of citrus. This golden drink is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, supporting immunity and fighting inflammation. But bael truly shines in its role against dehydration.
The pulp is rich in fibre and natural electrolytes, helping your body retain fluids and recover from sweat loss. To create this revitalising drink, simply mash the pulp of a ripe bael with water, strain, and add sugar or honey to taste. A pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice complete this refreshing and rehydrating summer beverage.
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Watermelon Sherbet
Cool off with watermelon sherbet, a naturally hydrating summer treat. Made with blended watermelon, this refreshing pink drink is packed with water, making it a delicious weapon against dehydration.
Watermelon boasts vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. It supports immunity and healthy vision. The recipe is simple: freeze seedless watermelon cubes, then blend them smooth with a touch of lime juice or honey for extra zing. Enjoy this refreshing sherbet for a hydrating and nutritious summer.
Cosmos Group hosts Dhaka Flow at "Health and Safety at Work" Workshop
In order to create a supportive and healthy work environment for all, Cosmos Group has hosted Dhaka Flow, the country’s pioneering yoga and wellness platform, to conduct a workshop for its staff members at Cosmos Center.
The wellness workshop, facilitated by an energetic team of Dhaka Flow, took place from 10 am to 12 pm on Sunday at the Padma Conference Hall, Cosmos Center, Malibagh in the capital.
Yogini, activist and writer Shazia Omar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder at Dhaka Flow, and Srabonti Ali, MSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Mental Health Counselor, Lighthouse Therapy BD, conducted two enlightening and energizing sessions at the workshop, enthusiastically participated by the Cosmos Group staff. Dhaka Flow Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Tahsin N Choudhury, was also present at the workshop.
Masud Jamil Khan, Deputy Managing Director of Cosmos Group, and Honorary Consul of Ireland in Bangladesh; Nahar Khan, Executive Director at the Cosmos Foundation and Gallery Cosmos, Executive Editor at United News of Bangladesh (UNB) and Vice President of the Cosmos Group; Shawkat Hossain, Vice President at Cosmos Group; Farid Hossain, Editor of UNB; and other officials and staff members of Cosmos Group joined the two-hour workshop.
After the Introductory Icebreaking session, Shazia Omar facilitated ‘Tips to Stay Healthy at Work’ and shared her valuable insights regarding well-being in the workplace. She conducted a wellness assessment of the participating staff and shared some powerful health hacks while orchestrating activities such as calming breath and visualisation, short yoga-based exercises during busy days such as stretching and emphasized the importance of proper nutrition and sleep.
How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke
The scorching heat waves can pose serious health risks, especially for people who stay outdoors for long hours due to occupation. During hot weather situations in summer, people working under the sun may suffer from heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, etc. Let’s explore some effective tips to safeguard outdoor workers from the debilitating effects of heat waves.
What is Heatstroke?
Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness characterised by a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher. It arises when your body overheats and the body's internal temperature regulation system fails, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity and dehydration. It is most prevalent during the summer season.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for heatstroke. If left untreated, it can swiftly lead to damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. Delaying treatment exacerbates the damage, heightening the risk of severe complications or even death.
Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
The most common symptoms of heatstroke include:
- High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)- Altered mental state, such as confusion or disorientation- Nausea and vomiting- Flushed or red skin- Rapid breathing- Rapid heartbeat.
Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion
Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya receives Padma Shri Award
Prominent Bangladeshi singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya received the prestigious Padma Shri Award from the Indian government on Monday (April 22, 2024).
Indian President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri Awards for the year 2024 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
The Vice President of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Minister, and other dignitaries were present.
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Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian awards in India, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.The awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activity, viz., art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, among others.
Discovering Guangzhou's Architectural Marvels
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Guangzhou Urban Planning Exhibition Center offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating history, sustainable development, and dynamic future, while the iconic Canton Tower lights up the skyline with its breathtaking display of innovation and design. These landmarks highlight why this city is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
Gateway to Yesterday and Tomorrow: Guangzhou Urban Planning Exhibition Center
The Guangzhou Urban Planning Exhibition Center isn't just another museum. Encased in a shimmering glass veneer, this center captivates from the first step inside, where a sprawling scale model of Guangzhou commands attention, portraying the intricate dance between the city’s historical layers and its leaps towards tomorrow.
Navigating through the center, each floor unfolds like chapters in a sci-fi novel, from Guangzhou’s humble beginnings to its thrust into the megacity league. Augmented reality setups bring a zest of magic, transforming static urban models into dynamic landscapes bustling with potential life. Here, technology meets urban planning, creating immersive narratives that celebrate both the city's heritage and its high-tech horizon.
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One can't help but be inspired by the city's ambitious vision to blend sustainability with urban growth. The center not only educates about urban planning but also ignites imaginations about the cities of the future.
Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables
As the temperatures soar during the scorching summer months, it becomes increasingly crucial to prioritise hydration. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Dehydration may lead your body to adverse effects ranging from fatigue and headaches to more severe complications like heatstroke. While it is common knowledge to increase water intake during hot weather, many overlook the hydrating potential of the summer vegetables.
Why Incorporate Summer Veggies into Your Diet
Maintaining adequate hydration levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Water is essential for regulating body temperature, aiding digestion, transporting nutrients, and flushing out toxins. Dehydration can lead to a range of adverse effects, including fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and even more severe complications like heatstroke.
By staying adequately hydrated, you can enhance cognitive function, improve physical performance, and support organ function. Make it a priority to drink water regularly throughout the day to ensure optimal hydration and vitality, especially in the summer heat.
Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage
Summer veggies are rich in diverse vitamins and nutrients. Adding vegetables to regular meals can help you stay hydrated and healthy during the warmer months. Let’s take a look into some nutritious summer veggies to fight dehydration this summer.
Nutritious Summer Vegetables to Beat Dehydration
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Cucumber
Cucumbers are hydrating vegetables packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B, and C, along with minerals such as potassium and magnesium. With a water content over 95%, they replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, aiding hydration.
Enjoy cucumbers sliced in salads, sandwiches, or refreshing cucumber mint smoothies for a hydrating boost. Incorporating cucumbers into your diet regularly can promote skin health, aid digestion, and support overall well-being. Aim for at least one or two cups of cucumber daily to reap its hydrating benefits.
Read more: Summer Safety Tips for Elderly to Avoid Heat-related Illnesses
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are hydrating vegetables boasting a water content of around 94%. Rich in vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants like lycopene, they support immune function and promote heart health. You may incorporate tomatoes into your diet to enjoy their hydrating benefits.
Try them tossed in salads or sandwiches, blended into soups, or roasted with herbs for a flavourful side dish. It is recommended to include 1 or 2 tomatoes in your meals regularly to hydrate your body and boost your health.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers, with a water content of approximately 92%, are hydrating vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. They support immune function, promote healthy vision, and reduce inflammation. You can incorporate bell peppers into your meals to enjoy their hydrating benefits.
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Add them to stir-fries, salads, or stuffed pepper recipes for a colourful and nutritious dish. Experts suggest limiting having one bell pepper in a day in your diet to stay hydrated and nourished, especially during hot weather without causing bloating or gas.
Lettuce
Lettuce varieties like iceberg and romaine are primarily composed of water. It is a hydrating vegetable that provides essential nutrients like vitamins A, K, and C, as well as folate and iron. It supports healthy skin, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.
Try to include lettuce in your diet for hydration and nutrition. Use it as a base for salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a refreshing and low-calorie meal option. Enjoy lettuce regularly to stay hydrated and promote overall well-being, aiming for around or less than two cups of green leaf lettuce per day.
Read more: 5 Mouth-watering Mango Pickle Recipes to Cherish This Summer
Spinach
Spinach, packed with water, is a hydrating vegetable loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, potassium and folate. It supports bone health, boosts immunity, and aids in blood clotting.
Add one handful of spinach daily into your diet for hydration and nutrition. Add it to salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes for a nutritious boost. These can help you to stay hydrated and reap its numerous health benefits.
Sailing through lights: A Pearl River cruise in Guangzhou
As the sun dips below the horizon, Guangzhou transforms into a city of lights. The Pearl River, or Zhujiang, which slices through this sprawling metropolis, offers the best seat in the house for an unforgettable nighttime spectacle: a river cruise that showcases the illuminated beauty of the city, with the iconic Canton Tower aglow in the backdrop.
Embarking on the Journey
The journey began at the bustling wharf in the city center, where our team of Bangladeshi journalists gathered to board one of the many boats decked out in vibrant lights. As the cool evening breeze wafted over the river, the boat slipped away from the dock, and the city's bustling sounds faded into a serene silence punctuated only by the gentle lapping of water against the hull.
Canton Tower: A Beacon of Light
The highlight of the cruise is undoubtedly the passage beside the Canton Tower. This 600-meter-tall architectural marvel is not just a feat of engineering but also a canvas for a dazzling light show. As the boat glided along, the tower emitted radiant light sequences that painted the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. The reflection of these lights on the water's surface created a mesmerizing double spectacle.
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A River Lined with Illuminations
But the Canton Tower isn't the only highlight lighting up the night. The cruise offers panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline, lit by the glow from numerous buildings and bridges. Each structure along the riverbank contributes its own unique burst of color, from the traditional reds and golds to the modern neon blues and greens that outline the sleek, contemporary facades of newer constructions.
The Liede Bridge dazzles with its dynamic light show synchronized to music, making it a floating dance of luminescence. This, combined with the shimmering outlines of other bridges like the Jiangwan and Haiyin, forms a continuous visual symphony that reflects Guangzhou's blend of tradition and modernity.
For those keen on photography, the cruise is a treasure trove of opportunities. The play of light and shadow, along with the city's reflection on the calm waters, makes for stunning compositions. Whether it's capturing the sweeping arc of a brightly lit bridge or the Canton Tower's ever-changing colors, each moment is a photographic masterpiece waiting to happen.
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How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage
To maintain the health of skin and hair, it is essential to take regular care in every season. The heat waves during summer months cause sweating and dehydration. Understanding how to protect and nourish the skin and hair can help you to minimise damages caused by sun heat. This article will explore effective tips to keep your skin and hair healthy, glowing, and protected during the warmer months.
Skincare Tips for Summer
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Hydration is Key
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important to stay hydrated from within. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and suppleness, preventing it from becoming dry and flaky under the summer sun. It also keeps you safe from heat stroke caused by the scorching summer heat.
Cleansing and Exfoliating
You should cleanse your skin twice daily to remove sweat, dirt, and sunscreen buildup. It is also necessary to exfoliate regularly to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. It can promote a smoother and more radiant complexion.
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Lightweight and Non-Comedogenic Products
It is highly recommended to opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers, serums, and sunscreens that won't clog pores or feel heavy on your skin. Try to look for products labelled "non-comedogenic" to prevent breakouts.
Introduce Antioxidants
It would be beneficial to incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products into your routine to combat free radical damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. You should look for ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract.
Sun Protection
It is crucial to apply sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours is equally important, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
Read more: How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin
Customised Skincare
Not every person has same type skin. Customising skincare routine acording to the specific type and condition of skin can help to avoid rashes and other skin related issues.
It is vital to tailor your skincare routine to suit your skin type. If you have oily skin use oil-free water-based products, hydrating products for dry skin, and use gentle, non-irritating products for sensitive skin.
Use Sun Protection Clothes and Acessories
Experts suggest to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during extreme hot weather. It would be wise to choose light-cloured and cotton fabric made clothes to stay safe from heat exhaustion.
Besides choosing summer-freindly outfits, you need to use protective acessories like umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses for added protection.
Read more: Korean Skincare Routine: 10 Skincare Hacks
Healthy Eating
It is very important to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish your skin from the inside out. You should limit your sugary and processed foods intake, which can contribute to inflammation and breakouts.