Amidst the success of Bangladeshi films in theatres across the country on the festive occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, makers of Afran Nisho’s debut feature film ‘Surongo’ have said that the film is all set to make its global release across different continents. However, a particular country being on that list sparked interest among film enthusiasts, as this is reportedly the first time a Bangladeshi film will hit theatres in Saudi Arabia. On Monday (July 03, 2023), the film’s lead actors Afran Nisho and Tama Mirza, director Raihan Rafi, Chorki CEO Redoan Rony and Alpha-i Managing Director Shahriar Shakil addressed several issues regarding the film, including the global release details, to journalists during a press briefing at Star Cineplex in SKS Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka. Why is the Barbie movie banned in Vietnam? Addressing the media, Shahriar Shakil said, “As part of our global release, ‘Surongo’ will be released in seven countries in the Middle East in phases. This is most probably the first Bangladeshi movie to be released in Saudi Arabia, a country which has a great fanbase of Nisho among the expat Bangladeshi community.” “We have also finalised Surongo's release in the United States, Canada, and Australia as well. It will be released on July 7 in six cities, including Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, and Darwin in Australia, and then on July 21 in New York, USA, and Canada. Then will be released in other states across the US from July 28,” Shakil added. At the press briefing, the makers of ‘Surongo’ informed that the film is slated to be released by India's Shree Venkatesh Films (SVF) under import-export policy.  Dhallywood eyes a festive Eid as movies become the talk of the town again SVF is one of the film conglomerates in India, and Surongo has already been sent to the Indian censor board for approval. If the film gets approved, it will be released across India on a large scale, makers of the film said. In the Middle East, ‘Surongo’ is scheduled to be released with Arabic subtitles, they added. Released on the day of Eid-ul-Azha, ‘Surongo’ has been successfully running at multiplexes and single-screen movie theatres across the country. 10 Most Hyped Bangladeshi Movies Releasing on Eid-ul-Azha 2023

The most hyped Bangladeshi movies releasing on Eid-ul-Azha 2023 promise captivating entertainment. Moviegoers’ eager eyes have started scanning the news feeds on social media. This excitement extends not only to theatre releases but also to the OTT (over-the-top) web films in Bangladesh. With the passionate audience of Bangladeshi cinema in mind, this is a sneak peek at the most anticipated movies set to release in halls and on OTT platforms this Eid. Let's delve into the world of these highly awaited films and discover what makes them truly exciting. 10 Most Anticipated Bangladeshi Movies Coming on Eid-ul-Azha 2023 Priyotoma Since the release of the first look on May 10, Shakib Khan's fans have been in a frenzy. Shakib's new avatar, sporting long hair and a man bun, quickly went viral on social media. His enigmatic pose left millions of fans captivated. Read more: Animated film 'Mujib Bhai' premiers at Star Cineplex Director Himel Ashraf revealed that this spontaneous moment featuring Shakib is a first in the film 'Priyotoma'. Himel Ashraf himself collaborated with Farooq Hossain in crafting the screenplay and dialogues. The movie is a Versatile Media production owned by Arshad Adnan. Kolkata star Idhika Paul is set to appear as the female lead alongside Shakib Khan. Shurongo Afran Nisho, a popular face in the realm of television, has become the talk of the town since the release of the teaser for his debut film. 'Shurongo' is a thrilling tale directed by the renowned Raihan Rafi. The plot revolves around an audacious heist. The movie stars Toma Mirza opposite Nisho, with Mustafa Monowar and Shahiduzzaman Selim also featuring in pivotal roles. 'Shurongo' will be released on the OTT platform Chorki and in local theaters this Qurbani Eid. Prohelika Esteemed drama director Chayanika Chowdhury presents her first full-length film. The song 'Megher Nowka' from 'Prohelika' has already garnered significant popularity. Pantha Shahriar weaves together mystery and romance in his story, dialogues, and screenplay, offering viewers a captivating experience. Veteran actor Mahfuz Ahmed makes a comeback to cinema after a prolonged hiatus, starring opposite the popular screen star Shabnam Bubli. Produced by Jamal Hossain, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Nasir Uddin Khan, Rashed Mamun Apu, and AK Azad Setu. Read more: New details of ‘Squid Game’ season 2 revealed Nikosh Tasnia Farin, who has made a mark in both drama and films, returns with a thrilling surprise. In a captivating promotional stunt, Farin appeared on Facebook live, pleading with the audience to help find her missing sister. Netizens swiftly realized that it was a teaser for 'Nikosh’. The story follows Sultana, who embarks on a search for her suddenly vanished younger sister, Liza. The screenplay, story, and dialogues were penned by Mejbah Uddin Sumon, while Rubel Hassan directed this web film in the thriller genre. Mahima Sultana portrays the role of the younger sister, and the movie features a diverse cast, including Mir Nawfel Ashrafi, Joy Raj, Rakib Hossain Ivon, Khalekuzzaman, Israt Jahan Hridika, Sabiha Zaman, and many more in various roles. MR-9 Jazz Multimedia has long contemplated bringing the renowned spy Masud Rana to the big screen. Their aspirations finally materialised with the adaptation of Kazi Anwar Hossain's 1966 novel ‘Dhongsho Pahar’, titled ‘MR-9: Do or Die’. Directed by Asif Akbar and produced under the banner of Jazz Multimedia and Avel Entertainment, the film stars ABM Suman as Masud Rana. The movie is expected to be released in both Bangla and English languages and will also hit theatres in Kolkata, India. Following its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this year, Premiere Entertainment is working on a worldwide release for the film. Tariq Anam Khan, Jessia Islam, Irfan Sajjad, Sayeda Tithee Omni, Anisur Rahman Milan, and Shahidul Alam Sacchu are among the talented actors gracing the screen in various roles. Read more: Shakib Khan’s ‘Priyotoma’ receives uncut censor certificate

Eid-ul-Azha 2023 is on the horizon. The entire media industry has a lineup of entertaining spectacles ready for "Eid Dhamaka." TV ‘natok’ or drama enthusiasts are also looking forward to the upcoming dramas featuring their favorite stars. TV play makers and stars, in preparation for the release, are fueling the excitement by unveiling trailers in tantalizing installments. Despite a flood of romantic-comedy dramas on the big screen, the audience's interest in the TV natok remains unwavering. Let's explore which Bangla dramas are coming on Eid-ul-Azha 2023. 10 Most Hyped Bangla Dramas on 2023 Qurbani Eid  Gifted Tasnia Farin is haunted by a recurring dream of a girl fleeing. Is she dreaming of herself? Is it a glimpse of the past or a glimpse into the future? The trailer is filled with enigmatic footage, shrouded in mystery. Preeti Dutt, renowned for her captivating writing, brings together the beloved duo Tawsif Mahbub and Tasnia Farin under her script and direction. This drama will grace the screens of RTV on the 4th day of Eid at 7 pm. Additionally, viewers can indulge in the drama on the RTV Drama YouTube channel. Read more: New details of ‘Squid Game’ season 2 revealed Surprise The groom discovered that his newlywed wife is none other than the twin sister of his lover. The surprise feels like the sky literally crashing down upon him. Sohail Rahman and Zainal Abedin have crafted the story with this twisted backdrop. Md. Mashrikul Alam has skillfully brought this story to life. Ziaul Faruq Apurba, the acclaimed hero of the small screen, portrays the unfortunate groom. Sabila Nur, adapting to the story's needs, takes on a dual role. However, it would be a mistake to assume that this tale is solely a comedy from start to finish. The screenplay strikes a delicate balance. Viewers must keep their eyes glued to RTV to savor this extraordinary experience. Last Night Rakesh Basu, known for his seamless fusion of comedy, thriller, and mystery, presents a story where a photographer falls in love with a girl who visits his studio. Just as the story reaches its climax with a short-lived love affair, the photographer's secret identity is unveiled. But has he been acting all along? Or does another secret lurk beneath the surface? Ziaul Faruq Apurba takes on the role of the photographer. The rising star Tanjim Saiyara Totini pairs with him in this drama. To unravel the true identity of the photographer, viewers must keep their eyes on the NTV screen. Read more: English Originals Coming to Netflix in July 2023 Newly Married Mushfiq Farhan and Keya Payel, the busiest couple of the moment, grace the screen as a newly married duo. The transition from bachelorhood to married life is a seismic shock for every newlywed. This drama beautifully captures how they navigate the challenges. Feeling the sudden weight of responsibility and the loss of freedom synonymous with single life is entirely normal. Director Mehedi Hasan Hridoy expertly presents the optional extent to which one can embrace these changes, all while infusing the narrative with humor. To witness the journey of this newly married couple toward happiness, keep your eyes on the RTV screen. Fifty Fifty Adnan falls head over heels in love at first sight. He's determined to marry the girl he adores with all his heart. However, a peculiar problem affects the girl.  Tanjin Tisha portrays this challenging role, while Tawsif Mahbub embodies the character of Adnan. Although the context appears thrilling, director Imraul Rafat masterfully blends comedy throughout the script. The drama will air on Deepta TV. Read more: Netflix Originals in English Coming in June 2023

One of the special attractions during Eid-ul-Azha is the delightful array of beef dishes. However, during hot summer days, spicy food can cause digestion issues. Therefore, it makes sense to go for lighter and milder-flavoured dishes crafted for the summer season. Let’s take a look at some mouth-watering beef recipes that can be prepared with the least amount of spices.  Qurbani Eid Special Tasty Beef Recipes without a Lot of Spices Beef and Vegetable Soup  Ingredients 1 kg beef stew meat, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 ½ cup chopped onion, 2 large chopped carrots, 1/2 cup green peas, 1 cup chopped celery, 8 cups beef broth, 1 ¾ cups diced tomatoes, 500 grams diced potato, 1 cup cut green beans, ½ cup chopped green onions, 3 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon salt, and ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley. Instructions Start by preheating a soup pot with some oil over medium-high heat. Place the beef in the pot. Make sure it is in a single layer, and cook until nicely browned on all sides. If necessary, brown the beef in batches.  Read more: 7 Delicious Palm (Tal) Fruit or Ice Apple Recipes for Summer 2023 Once the beef is browned, add onions to the pot and continue cooking for about 3 minutes, until the onions are softened and have a light golden color. Then pour in beef broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, partially cover the pot, and let it cook until the beef becomes tender. It should take around 55 to 75 minutes. Next, add potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for approximately 20 minutes until they become tender. After that, incorporate the green beans and green onion and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, stir in fresh parsley and season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remove the pot from the heat and enjoy a bowl of hearty and flavorful beef soup.

The Ministry of Commerce on Sunday (June 25, 2023) fixed the prices of salted cowhides at Tk 50 to Tk 55 per square feet in Dhaka and at Tk 45 to Tk 48 outside Dhaka. Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi disclosed this after a meeting with tannery owners, the Tariff Commission, and related stakeholders at the Ministry of Commerce. The minister said that the price of salted cowhide has been increased by Tk 3 in Dhaka and by Tk 5 outside Dhaka compared to last year. And the prices of Khasi (male goat) and goat skin were kept the same as it was in the previous year. Read: Salted rawhides collection starts Thursday Tipu Munshi said the rawhide prices of sacrificial Khasi (male goat) has been fixed at Tk 18 to Tk 20 and goat Tk 12 to Tk 14. Last year, the price of salted cowhide was Tk 47 to Tk 52 per square feet in Dhaka and Tk 40 to Tk 44 outside Dhaka. And the price of salted skin of khasi was Tk 18 to Tk 20 and goat skin was Tk 12 to Tk14. Tanners will get around Tk 259 crore loans from banks to procure and preserve rawhides during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. Read: Steps taken to prevent rawhide smuggling in border areas: Industries Secy According to commerce ministry sources, tannery owners have written to the ministry seeking a Tk 500 crore loan . A total of 12 public and private banks will disburse the loans among applicants with state-owned ones lending the maximum amount. Read more: Govt hikes rawhide prices ahead of Eid

Prices of almost all spices have doubled in a year, and consumers are particularly feeling the pinch ahead of Eid-ul-Azha when consumption of spices is high. Despite sufficient stock and import of essential spices, traders at both wholesale and retail level hiked the prices of onion, ginger, garlic, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, cumin, turmeric, and coriander. SM Nazer Hossain, vice-president of the Consumers’ Association of Bangladesh (CAB), told UNB that prices of essential commodities have already gone up, and the hike in prices of spice will further burden the already hard-up low- and middle-income people. Though there is enough stock of spices to meet the demands during Eid, traders are indiscriminately hiking the prices to make more profit – due to lack of proper monitoring, he said. Spice prices soar in Faridpur ahead of Eid-ul-Azha According to the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), on June 22, 2022, cumin was sold at a minimum price of Tk 380 and a maximum of Tk 450 per kg. The price of cumin has increased more than twice in one year. Before Eid-ul-Azha, other spices are also beyond the reach of low-income people. Prices of most spices, including locally grown onion, garlic, dried chillies, green chillies, turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon have increased. Among them, the prices of ginger and garlic have almost doubled. The UNB correspondent’s visits to Shyambazar, and Karwan Bazar – two major wholesale and retail markets in Dhaka – confirmed the latest prices today (June 24, 2023). There were enough stocks of ginger imported from Myanmar, Vietnam, and Indonesia in Shyambazar on Friday. The wholesale price of ginger is Tk 120 to Tk 250 per kg depending on the quality. In Karwan Bazar, the retail price was Tk 250 to Tk 350 per kg. TCB said that even a year ago, ginger was sold between Tk 60 to Tk 100 per kg at the retail level. Spice prices shoot up ahead of Eid despite sufficient stock Traders say that China is the biggest supplier of ginger in the country. But due to its high price, Chinese ginger is not available in the country right now. Stock of Indian ginger is also low in the market. Mainly because of this, the price of ginger has more than doubled within a year. The price of dried chilli has also increased. A year ago, dried chillies were sold at Tk 220 to Tk 250 per kg, but this year, it is being sold at Tk 300 to Tk 340 per kg. Indian dried chillies are being sold at a higher price of Tk 380 per kg. In retail markets, such as Karwan Bazar, the price of imported dried chillies has also gone up to Tk 480 per kg. Coriander is being sold at Tk 165 to Tk 220 per kg, cloves at Tk 1,500 to Tk 1,600 and cinnamon at Tk 410 to Tk 480 per kg in Karwan Bazar, Shyampur and Sutrapur Bazar. According to TCB, a year ago, coriander was sold at Tk 120 to Tk 150, cloves at Tk 1,050 to Tk 1,200 and cinnamon at Tk 400 to Tk 450 per kg. Traders say that due to the dollar crunch, importers are not able to import enough spices. The prices of some species are high in the global market as well. No shortage of spices in market ahead of Eid: Spice Traders Association Import costs have also increased. Apart from that, the production cost of spices in the country has also gone up due to the increase in fertiliser, fuel, and labour costs. Also, the cost of transportation is high. Mainly due to these reasons, the price of spices has gone up.

The beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, has been announced by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia. Eid-ul-Azha 2023 will be celebrated on June 28 in the kingdom with the crescent’s sighting, according to an Al Arabiya report. The Hajj pilgrimage, one of Islam’s “Five Pillars”, is performed in Makkah during Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this time, Muslims from all over the world congregate there. Read: Astronomers reveal expected date of Eid-ul-Azha 2023 The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah is known as the Day of Arafat. Millions of pilgrims from around the world congregate on this day in an act of faith and devotion on the plain of Arafat, close to Makkah. Muslims all over the world will commemorate Eid-ul-Azha, popularly known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” after the Day of Arafat. This significant Islamic holiday honours Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice to Allah. But before he could offer his son, Allah gave him a lamb, which he was to sacrifice in place of his son. Muslims recall this miraculous intervention each year. Read: 90 lakh Eid holidaymakers to leave Dhaka by road: SCRF Muslims sacrifice an animal, usually a lamb or a cow, in accordance with ritual on Eid-ul-Azha to commemorate this occasion. Following that, the meat is divided into three portions: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the underprivileged. This act of giving emphasises the importance of the community, empathy, and charity that are fundamental to both the holiday and the Islamic faith.

Qurbani Eid 2023 festival is just around the corner. Like every year, Muslims in Bangladesh are eager to purchase sacrificial animals. However, visiting the animal haat (markets) physically to buy sacrificial animals during this sweltering summer heat can be a daunting task for many. Keeping all this in mind, different online platforms are once again starting online cattle markets.  4 Online Cattle Markets in Bangladesh for Eid-ul-Azha 2023 Purchasing sacrificial animals online has become more common nowadays, and fortunately, there are online Qurbani haat available in Bangladesh. Let’s explore these “digital haat” in detail. Bikroy Birat Haat Powered by Minister To celebrate the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, Bikroy.com, a renowned platform for buying and selling livestock, has joined hands with Minister Hi-Tech Park Ltd., a well-known manufacturer of electronics and home appliances, and OPPO Bangladesh, a global mobile manufacturing company. Together, they have organized a Qurbani campaign called ‘Bikroy Birat Haat Powered by Minister.’  Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2023: Cumilla to have a surplus of 8,606 sacrificial animals, says livestock dept Just like every Eid-ul-Azha, Bikroy is once again offering a special collection of farm animals exclusively for its valued customers. The Bikroy website already showcases over 1,600 advertisements for livestock. To boost the popularity of Bikroy online haat, like every year, the company also launched the Birat Haat Contest. However, this year the contest will be different. Minister has taken on the role of Title Sponsor for the seventh consecutive time, while OPPO has joined as an Associate Partner for the first time. To participate in the Birat Haat contest, individuals are required to create a video following the theme song of Birat Haat along with its catchy dance step. The video should be shared on either one or all of the respective Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube profiles with the #BiratHaat2023 caption. Additionally, participants are also required to submit the video link to the Bikroy Blog site. Among the submitted videos, 18 lucky winners will be chosen based on their entertainment value and uniqueness. Read more: PM accepts cow as gift from couple for Eid-ul-Azha sacrifice For the Member contest, 15 winners will be selected from sellers across all categories who have the highest number of ads, the most views, and ad responses. All winners will be rewarded with exciting prizes such as refrigerators, LED TVs, smartphones, and more, with a total value of BDT 6 lakh, sponsored by Minister Hi-Tech Park Ltd. and OPPO Bangladesh. Bengal Meat Qurbani  On June 1 of this year, Bengal Meat announced the launch of the Qurbani portal for the 9th consecutive year. They sell organic grass-fed cattle, offering a unique and distinct option for customers. Customers have the convenience of ordering their preferred cattle through the online platform, and the cattle are then delivered while maintaining the necessary quality. Sadeeq Agro  Popular livestock farm Sadeeq Agro also arranged online cattle haat this year. The buyers can check their website to order any cattle they like. The site provides weight, and all other required information regarding the cattle. However, buyers can also visit their farm to see the cow and verify the weight.  Read more: Bhaijan now coming to Jashore Qurbani cows can be ordered up to 7 days before Eid-ul-Azha. However, the buyer will be required to pay 10% in advance. The cost of cows vary as per the weight. After the order, Sadeeq Agro will deliver according to the customer’s preferred date. The best thing about Sadeeq Agro is that they do not have any delivery charges. And they deliver anywhere in the Dhaka metropolitan area. Khaas Food This year, Khaas Food has launched an Online Qurbani Haat, aiming to provide a convenient platform for purchasing sacrificial animals. It features a diverse selection of cows sourced from numerous farms and breeds. Each cow comes with detailed information, including weight, age, height, feed, gender, and colour.  Additionally, Khaas Food ensures transparency and clarity regarding the health of the cattle by specifying the vaccines they have received. To secure a booking, customers are required to make an upfront payment of 50% via bKash or credit card, with the remaining amount due before delivery. Delivery of sacrificial animals will be completed in 2-4 days before Eid. BDT 3000 is applicable for delivery charges. In this case, the delivery will be done according to the order of booking and the customer’s demand. Final Words For the last few years, the trend of Online Qurbani Haat in Bangladesh has revolutionized the way people participate in the tradition of animal sacrifice. The digital platform provides convenience, accessibility, and a wide range of options for individuals looking to purchase sacrificial animals. However, it is upon the buyers, to check all the detailed information such as breed, weight, age, height, feed, gender, and colour before purchasing a cattle. Thus, buyers can choose the best sacrificial animals from the online cattle markets for the holy occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. Read more: With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, Khulna cattle famers distraught over price hike of fodder

Hundreds of cattle in Kanaighat upazila of Sylhet district have contracted lumpy skin disease — causing grave concern among farmers ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. Some 300 cows infected with lumpy skin disease have died in the upazila; cattle farmers and those who rear cows at home are facing huge losses as a result. Sources said, the viral disease has been noticed in most cattle farms in the upazila. Cattle farmers are particularly worried considering the Eid-ul-Azha season, as they have been rearing the animals for the occasion. Due to the outbreak of the virus, no cattle market has been set up in the upazila. Cattle farmers worry over spread of lumpy skin disease The viral disease is being noticed in Laxmiprashad West, Laxmiprashad East, Dighirpar East, Satbak and the municipality area. The veterinarians in the Upazila Livestock Hospital are struggling to provide medical treatment to the cattle. Talking to owners and farmers of different cattle farms, UNB’s Sylhet correspondent learnt that lumpy skin disease had spread in the area two and a half months ago. At first, small lumps were seen on the cows and later the lumps were swollen. At one stage, reddish holes appeared on the cows’ skin, the farmers described. Workshop discusses measures to prevent lumpy skin disease The infected cows cannot be fed properly as their throats also swell up, they added. Most of the infected cows die due to gradual weakening. It is a highly contagious virus, but the affected cattle can be cured after a few months of proper treatment. Dr. Nabanita Sarkar Tonni, in-charge of Kanaighat Upazila Livestock Hospital, said most of the cattle in the locality are being infected with the virus and there is no vaccine and medicine for its treatment. Lumpy skin disease causes concern for Faridpur cattle farmers The authorities concerned of the hospital have already circulated leaflets and made announcements about the outbreak of lumpy skin disease. A meeting has also been arranged in each union with farmers and farm owners over the issue, she said. “Despite manpower shortage, we are providing treatment to the infected cattle. It takes 3-4 months for the cows to be fully cured and the farmers have been asked to have patience,” she added. Dr Nabanita also advised the farmers to keep their cows under nets, so that the virus is not spread to healthy animals. The Fisheries and Livestock Ministry suggested checking mosquito breeding in farm areas and using antipyretic, antibiotic and antihistamine from registered veterinarians to control the disease. Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2023: 1,76,690 sacrificial animals ready in Chapainawabganj

There will be no shortage of sacrificial animals in Chapainawabganj district this Eid-ul-Azha, and there will be a surplus of around 50,000 animals, concerned authorities have said. According to the Chapainawabganj unit of Department of Livestock, the district has 1,76,690 animals, as 12,159 farmers in five upazilas are currently rearing sacrificial animals for Eid-ul-Azha 2023. This year, the demand for sacrificial animals in the district is estimated to be 1,26,379, resulting in a surplus of 50,311 animals for the entire district. Read: With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, Khulna cattle famers distraught over price hike of fodder These animals have been reared in farms and in homesteads. Of these animals, there are 96,543 cows, 70,319 goats, 9,587 sheep, and 241 buffaloes.