Spotlighting creativity, innovation, and the rich heritage of fashion and trends, the third and 2025 edition of Arka Fashion Week has begun in the capital’s Aloki, Tejgaon. With ‘Denim’ as the theme for the opening day Thursday , the event highlighted the fabric’s timeless versatility, innovative potential, and unifying appeal. One of the key highlights of this year’s Arka FW is the unique addition of Masterclasses. Running from 12-8 pm, the Masterclass series on its opening day brought together some of the brightest minds in fashion to discuss various aspects of design, innovation, and sustainability. Each session offered a unique perspective, allowing attendees to explore various topics. Among the experts who are conducting the masterclasses, designer Sobia Ameen led an engaging session focusing on the future of Bangladeshi fashion, in which she discussed sustainability, talent development, and the importance of representing local identity on both global and local stages. February 2025 Amazon Prime Originals Streaming Lineup: Exclusive Films and Web Series Another unique highlight of the day was the Flash Runway, held at 3:30 pm. Unlike traditional fashion shows, this dynamic event featured participants selected directly from the audience, chosen for how well they represented the theme of the day: Denim. The chosen individuals walked the runway wearing their own creative interpretations of denim, showcasing the versatility of the fabric through a variety of styles and expressions. The Design Lab, one of the major attractions at Arka FW, is a dynamic space where creativity thrives and imagination takes centre stage. This year, attendees can purchase any blank t-shirt, tote bag, scarf, or hat from the lab and personalize using a variety of customization techniques, including block printing, screen printing, hand-painting, patchwork, and more. Beyond creating their own designs, visitors can enjoy live performances from artists offering face painting and tattoo art, hair braiding, and caricature sketches. A dedicated space will also host live art demonstrations, sparking inspiration and adding an entertaining touch to the experience. The Marketplace at Arka Fashion Week is a dynamic hub celebrating the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Bangladeshi brands and artisans. It showcases an eclectic mix of established names like Aarong, Dheu, and Arabika, alongside emerging labels such as Nuzart, Dhaka Vintage, and House of SHUI, creating a rich intersection of tradition and modernity. 3rd edition of Arka Fashion Week to be held from Jan 16-19 With sustainability as a guiding philosophy, the Marketplace emphasizes promoting homegrown talent and supporting small-scale entrepreneurs. Participating brands and artisans such as Tasha, Protibha, Shoilee, and Dhaka Vintage represent diverse facets of local heritage while incorporating contemporary innovations; and by offering these designers and creators a platform to connect with a wider audience, Arka Fashion Week provides critical exposure to budding entrepreneurs, bridging the gap between tradition and the global fashion landscape, according to its organizers. Unlike the previous editions, this year the Marketplace moved outdoors to accommodate a larger number of stalls, offering visitors a chance to explore timeless traditions and contemporary innovations in an open setting, which Arka FW highlights as its commitment to elevating Bangladesh's fashion ecosystem while fostering meaningful connections and promoting sustainability. Designed to complement the vibrant energy of the event, the Food Zone on the second floor features a diverse lineup of brands including Arabika, Just Juice, Slurps, Waffle-Up, Fruitsicles, Couch Potato, Kora Fry, Birria Stop, Shei Nihari, Izakaya, KONA CAFE, and Lueur Bakery; offering something for every palate - from artisanal beverages to savoury delicacies and sweet treats. The opening day concluded with the performances of Arka x Bhai Bhai Takeover: Munasib, Deathwail, and Bhai Bhai Sound System. Besides the usual offerings alongside several impactful Masterclasses, the second day (Friday) of Arka FW 2025 is themed ‘Modern Contemporary’ and it will highlight bold, innovative designs by Daania, Royal Bengal Couture, DHEU by SaRa, and AMI Dhaka, Kathal among others on its Runway shows, reflecting the spirit of modern fashion. The four-day Arka Fashion Week 2025 will come to its closure on January 19, Sunday.    

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed six times by an unidentified assailant in an attempted burglary at his Mumbai residence early on Thursday. The incident occurred around 2am at his Bandra home. Khan was admitted to Lilavati Hospital at 3:30am, where he was immediately treated for injury. Dr. Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer at Lilavati Hospital, confirmed that Khan sustained six stab wounds, two of which are deep, including one near the spine. Khan is currently undergoing surgery, which is being led by a team of medical experts including neurosurgeon Dr. Nitin Dange, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Leena Jain, and anaesthesiologist Dr. Nisha Gandhi. Dr. Uttamani stated that the neurosurgery has been completed, but the plastic surgeon is still working on repairing the wounds. The actor is out of danger, and further updates are expected shortly. Khan’s team issued an official statement confirming the attempted burglary and his surgery. The statement urged media and fans to remain patient, as the matter is under police investigation. Initial reports indicate that an intruder broke into Khan’s residence while he was asleep. A struggle ensued, during which Khan was stabbed before the burglar fled the scene. An FIR has been filed at the Bandra Police Station, and three employees of Khan’s household have been taken in for questioning. One of the employees was also injured in the altercation. The Mumbai Crime Branch has launched a parallel investigation and formed seven teams to track down the suspect. While one team is reviewing CCTV footage, others are searching various areas of Mumbai.   Source: NDTV

Melissa Rivers recalled how swiftly the California wildfires spread, forcing the county’s Ready, Set, Go evacuation plan to essentially skip straight to “Set.” That left her with little time to gather her most valued possessions before fleeing her home. When the final warning arrived, Rivers said Tuesday, “The fire was still a canyon away, but you could clearly see the flames.” In the rush to evacuate, she quickly gathered her pets and a few sentimental items, including her late mother Joan Rivers ’ Emmy Award. “I grabbed both my parents’ watches and my dad’s dress watch," which she had given to her son Cooper for his 18th birthday. She also managed to pack a few pieces of clothing. “All our belongings are crammed into three tote bags, three large canvas bags, and several Macy’s plastic bags along with a CVS bag,” she said. The fire completely devastated her property. “We lost everything. The only thing that survived is our front gate and the barbecue,” Rivers shared. She described the scale of destruction as unimaginable. “It’s so much more than just the homes — it’s an entire town wiped off the map,” she said. “Many businesses in Palisades were family-owned. There are people who not only lost their homes but also their businesses and livelihoods.” Finding safe shelter has been another challenge. Read: February 2025 Amazon Prime Originals Streaming Lineup: Exclusive Films and Web Series “We’ve had to move three times due to evacuations, but we’ve settled at a friend’s house in Santa Monica,” Rivers said. “They’ve been kind enough to take us in, along with another family we’re friends with.” Rivers copes with these challenges through her self-proclaimed “dark sense of humor” and her knack for making people laugh. She also finds solace in supporting others who are struggling, which helps to ease her own burdens. “Checking in and comforting the people in my world that are affected by this allows me to not deal with my home stuff right now. I cried once for five minutes and then again for like 20 and don’t have time to do that. I am my parents' daughter.” Despite losing most of her belongings, Rivers is adamant about prioritizing those in greater need. “People are donating, and stores are offering huge discounts. I see so many of my friends from the Palisades wanting to get a discount somewhere. And I keep trying to say to them, these are not meant for you. You can buy another pair of freaking jeans at Neiman Marcus just like you always did. Let the people who really need it have the first shot at it.” Among the charitable donations, one stood out to Rivers. Read more: James Woods posts on X that his house survived LA wildfires ”Apparently, Jennifer Lopez dropped off some clothes. And we were laughing someone, somewhere just got a pair of a Jennifer Lopez’s jeans. How amazing,” she said.

Amazon Prime Video reshapes the streaming experience with unique, engaging, and entertaining content. The February 2025 Prime Video lineup offers an intriguing blend of action adventures, romances, thrillers, comedies, and historical tales. Featuring a mix of fresh films, brand-new series, and much-anticipated new seasons with stellar casts, the global OTT platform brings a robust collection. Let’s delve into next month's must-watch Amazon Prime Original premiers. 6 Must-stream Original Shows on Amazon Prime Video this February . Clean Slate | Comedy | February 06, 2025 From veteran film producer Norman Lear, this comedy series boasts Dan Ewen, Laverne Cox, and George Wallace as its creators. Lear himself executive produced the series with Ewen, Cox, Wallace, Brent Miller, and Simran Baidwan. The drama series centers on Harry, a humble car wash owner in Alabama, whose ordinary life takes an unexpected turn when his estranged child returns after 17 years. That child, now proudly living as Desiree- a determined and unapologetically bold trans woman. Read more: Top 10 Netflix English Originals to Watch in February 2025: Movies, Series, and Shows Led by Cox and Wallace, the show features a cast that includes Jay Wilkison, Norah Murphy, Phillip Garcia, Telma Hopkins, Zoe Vatekeh, D.K. Uzoukwu, Shena Verrett, and Pat Yeary. The production credit goes to Shantira Jackson, Amos Mac, and Miller. Invincible: Season 3 | Superhero | February 06, 2025 This animated TV series was created by Robert Kirkman and is based on the comic book series of the same name, which he co-created with Ryan Ottley and Cory Walker. Backed by Maude Lewis and Helen Leigh, this superhero animation was jointly developed by Kirkman and Simon Racioppa. This compelling series chronicles the journey of Mark Grayson, a teenager coming of age under extraordinary circumstances. Guided by his father, Nolan Grayson, better known as Omni-Man, the planet’s most formidable superhero, Mark learns to harness his newfound abilities. Meanwhile, he uncovers the weight of responsibility and the darker truths about heroism. Read more: Top Bangladeshi Movies of 2024: Dhallywood’s Biggest Box Office Hits Starring Steven Yeun, J. K. Simmons, and Sandra Oh, the voice cast also includes Gillian Jacobs, Seth Rogen, Walton Goggins, Jason Mantzoukas, Zazie Beetz, Zachary Quinto, and Grey DeLisle. The action series flourishes with Kirkman, Racioppa, Cory Walker, David Alpert, Margaret M. Dean, Catherine Winder, Evan Goldberg, and the star Seth Rogen as executive producers. My Fault: London | Romantic Drama | February 13, 2025 Penned by Melissa Osborne, this British film reimagined the Spanish film My Fault (2023), which was inspired by the novel Culpa Mia by Mercedes Ron. The story revolves around An 18-year-old girl’s life is upended when she relocates from America to London with her mother and affluent stepfather. As she adjusts to this new chapter, a forbidden attraction blossoms between her and her stepbrother. Meanwhile, her estranged father, recently released from prison, embarks on a quest to reunite with her. Read more: Top 10 Indian Blockbusters of 2024: Record-Breaking Hits Ruling the Box Office Directed by Charlotte Fassler and Dani Girdwood, this romantic movie stars Asha Banks and Matthew Broome. Ray Fearon, Eve Macklin, Jason Flemyng, Enva Lewis, Sam Buchanan, Amelia Kenworthy, Harry Gilby, and Kerim Hassan round out the supporting cast. Bankrolled by Ben Pugh and Erica Steinberg, the movie thrives with Alex de la Iglesia, Kari Hatfield, Carolina Bang, and Domingo Gonzalez as its executive producers.

Envisioning to democratise fashion in Bangladesh, the third edition of Arka Fashion Week will return at its iconic venue Aloki in the capital’s Tejgaon, all set to be held from January 16 to 19. Last year, Arka Fashion Week, held from June 13 to 16, 2024, made a significant impact and captivated the city with unparalleled energy and creativity. Drawing a remarkable footfall of over 20,000 attendees, it became a magnet for the youth and celebrated fashion's transformative power. Vandalism halts Hanif Sanket’s ‘Ityadi’ filming in Thakurgaon Reaffirming its commitment to equitable opportunities for designers and brands of all kinds, Arka Collective and Arka Studio are once again gearing up for the third edition of this mega rendezvous of fashion, and a press conference held on Sunday provided details about the upcoming fashion week.  Asad Sattar, the founder of Arka Fashion Week; and organising committee members including the country’s renowned model-choreographer Azra Mahmud and senior fashion journalist Sheikh Saifur Rahman briefed the journalists about the upcoming edition. In his welcoming remarks, Sheikh Saifur Rahman shared insights into the continuity of Arka Fashion Week and the specifics of this year's event. Asad Sattar elaborated on the details of the event, emphasizing its tradition of introducing new elements each year. ‘Masterclass’ on different topics is one such new feature this year, and over the four days, each day will feature a unique theme, except for the first day, which will not host any shows. Azra Mahmud provided details about the fashion shows and other key aspects of the event. During the Q&A session, she addressed this year’s model selection process, explaining that over 600 applications had been received from which 100 candidates were shortlisted for auditions, and 25 models were ultimately selected. She noted that this year’s lineup includes not only new faces but also returning models from last year and some of the country’s top models. National Board of Review Awards hold space for ‘Wicked’ She added that many of the models have already been doing exceptional work and Asad Sattar echoed this sentiment, pointing out that several models from last year have progressed significantly in their careers, working with major brands like Aarong and others. Regarding the financial aspects of the event, Asad Sattar said the event relies on funding from sponsors. However, these funds are not always sufficient, and the organizers often have to cover expenses on their own. He added that if additional funds become available in the future, they would be used for initiatives to develop the fashion industry further, as Arka is a not-intended-for-profit initiative. Sheikh Saifur Rahman acknowledged the role of the media in helping Arka Fashion Week establish its position within just a year and a half. He expressed gratitude to journalists and assured them that timely and accurate information would be provided during the event. He also invited journalists to attend the masterclasses, requesting advance notice to make necessary arrangements. For others interested in attending the masterclasses, registration and a specific fee will be required. Fashion entrepreneurs and fashion design students in the country are encouraged to participate in the masterclasses. Tahsan finally confirms his marriage to Roza Ahmed This year, Arka Fashion Week 2025 is themed across four days, each day highlighting a unique focus: Day 1 is themed as ‘Denim’, Day 2 as ‘Modern Contemporary’, Day 3 will be celebrating ‘Fusion’ and Day 4 is themed for ‘Sustainability’. These themes not only reflect the diversity of the event but also underscore its dedication to blending heritage, innovation, and eco-consciousness, making Arka Fashion Week a dynamic space for inspiration and growth, the organizers stated. With a total of 12 runway shows, the Runway segment is once again all set to become the centrepiece of Arka Fashion Week, offering a stage for designers to connect with audiences and showcase the future of Bangladeshi fashion. Carefully curated, the runway brings together emerging talent, established brands, and leading names in Bangladesh’s fashion scene, offering a diverse and engaging experience. The first day will not host any Runway show. Day 2 (Modern Contemporary, January 17th) will highlight bold, innovative designs by Daania, Royal Bengal Couture, DHEU by SaRa, and AMI Dhaka, Kathal among others; Day 3 (Fusion, January 18th) will celebrate creativity and diversity, featuring collections by fashion design students featured on the Student Runway, as well as brands GLEE and AMIRÁ, and Day 4 (Sustainability, January 19th) will emphasise on eco-conscious design with collections by Dhong, Tasha, Friendship, Grissho, Bliss, Urukku.Bangladesh, Taan, Aranya, and Kuhu. The brand new ‘Masterclass’ segment this year will host 26 Masterclasses, led by some of the most prominent names and brands in the fashion and creative industries. Attendees will have the unparalleled opportunity to learn directly from pioneers through sessions such as the Kantha Stitch Masterclass by Afsana Ferdousi, Karchupi & Zardozi Masterclass by Ahmed Tuhin Reza of House of Ahmed, Natural Dyeing with Marigold and Catechu Dyebath by Nawshin Khair of Aranya, Modelling Masterclass by Tangia Zaman Methila, and Fashioning Influence: Community & Identity by Sobia Ameen and Rahemur Rahman, among many others. Besides, other attractions including concerts featuring prominent artists and bands such as Joler Gaan and Indalo among others will enthral the eventgoers, and a dedicated food zone will feature a diverse lineup of brands offering everything from comfort food to artisanal snacks and refreshing beverages. Launched in 2023, the maiden edition of Arka Fashion Week took place from October 26-28 that year, which was followed by its second edition between June 13-17.

Netflix remains at the forefront of the streaming world, delivering a constant stream of fresh, captivating content. In February 2025, the platform is set to unveil an exciting array of English originals, including must-watch movies, series, animations, and crowd-favorite reality shows. With genres ranging from thrilling action and heartfelt romance to laugh-out-loud comedy and magical fantasy, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek at the most anticipated releases you won’t want to miss this month. 10 Must-see Netflix English Originals Streaming this February . Celebrity Bear Hunt / Reality Competition / February 5, 2025 Featuring Bear Grylls in a key role, this TV series headlines Holly Willoughby as its presenter. The show features 12 British celebrities thrust into the untamed Central American jungle, where they become the hunted prey of Bear Grylls. Each failed challenge increases the risk of elimination in this intense ‘Bear Hunt’, testing their survival instincts and pushing their endurance to the limits. The star-studded participants include Singers Mel B and Una Healy, Dancer Shirley Ballas, Rapper Big Zuu, actors Joe Thomas and Kola Bokinni, and fashion models Lottie Moss and Leomie Anderson. Moreover, the diverse participant group comprises tennis legend Boris Becker, interior expert Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, journalist Steph McGovern, and ex-rugby player Danny Cipriani. Read more: Top Bangladeshi Movies of 2024: Dhallywood’s Biggest Box Office Hits Grylls also executive produced the reality show along with Ben Mitchell, Delbert Shoopman, Charlie Bennett, Olly Nash, and Saul Fearnley. The production houses are Grylls's The Natural Studios, Talkback, and Banijay UK's Workerbee. Kinda Pregnant / Comedy / February 5, 2025 Directed by Tyler Spindel, and penned by Julie Paiva, this American film stars Amy Schumer, Will Forte, Jillian Bell, Brianne Howey, and Damon Wayans Jr. The storyline centers on Lainy, who spirals into jealousy after learning her best friend is pregnant. In a twist of emotions, she begins wearing a prosthetic baby bump and unexpectedly crosses paths with the man destined to change her life. The lead star, Schumer, is also in the production team, including Adam Sandler, Allen Covert, Tim Herlihy, Judit Maull, Molly Sims, Kevin Grady, and Eli Thomas. Read more: Top 10 Indian Blockbusters of 2024: Record-Breaking Hits Ruling the Box Office Apple Cider Vinegar / Biography Crime / February 6, 2025 This Australian limited series delves into the lives of wellness influencer Belle Gibson and her confidante Milla, who leverage their platforms to offer supposed cures. However, Gibson's deceit reaches a chilling peak when she fabricates a cancer diagnosis, manipulating her followers and the world with a web of lies. This See-Saw Films Production is brought to fruition by creator Samantha Strauss who also contributed to the writing with Anya Beyersdorf and Angela Betzien. Helmed by Jeffrey Walker, the crime drama series is inspired by ‘The Woman Who Fooled the World’ by Nick Toscano and Beau Donelly. The cast includes Kaitlyn Dever, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Aisha Dee, Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Mark Coles Smith, Ashley Zukerman, and Susie Porter. Read more: Top 10 Highest-Grossing Movies of 2024: Global Blockbusters That Shaped Cinema Sweet Magnolias: Season 4 / Romantic Drama / February 6, 2025 Developed by Sheryl J. Anderson, this romantic series is Rooted in Sherryl Woods' beloved novels of the same name. The storyline follows lifelong best friends Maddie, Dana Sue, and Helen as they navigate the challenges of balancing love, family dynamics, and ambitious careers. Season 3 introduced unexpected discord among the women, unraveling years of harmony. In Season 4, the series delves deeper into unresolved conflicts from the finale. It will weave together the unpredictability of romance, the delicate intricacies of friendship, and the unforeseen surprises that life throws their way. The lead characters are played by JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott, and Heather Headley. Executive producer Sheryl J. Anderson returns as showrunner with EP Dan Paulson. Like previous seasons, the upcoming episodes showcase the directing of Lauren Petzke, Christine Swanson, Norman Buckley, JoAnna Garcia Swisher, and Matt Drake. Read more: Popular Characters of Squid Game Season 2: Who's Your Favourite? The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep / Action Fantasy / February 11, 2025 Based on ‘A Little Sacrifice’ by Andrzej Sapkowski, this animated film boasts Kang Hei Chul as its director and Mike Ostrowski and Rae Benjamin as the writers. Set in the immersive world of ‘The Witcher’, this gripping dark fantasy film centers on Geralt, the legendary mutant monster hunter. He uncovers a long-buried feud between humans and sea-dwelling beings. With kingdoms on the brink of war, Geralt and his allies race against time to unravel the mystery and prevent a catastrophic conflict. Bankrolled by Studio Mir, Platige Image, and Hivemind, the adventure animation features voice artists like Doug Cockle, Joey Batey, Anya Chalotra, and Christina Wren. Read more: January 2025 K-drama Lineup: 10 Must-watch Premieres

Actor James Woods says his house in Pacific Palisades has survived the Los Angeles wildfires that had devastated much of his neighborhood. “A miracle has happened,” Woods posted Friday on X. "We managed to get to our property and our home, that we were told is gone forever, is still standing.” Ben Affleck to Tom Hanks: Which stars face threats from raging LA wildfires? Woods added: “In this hellish landscape ‘standing’ is relative, but smoke and other damage is not like the utter destruction around us." Earlier this week, Woods was among hundreds of thousands around Los Angeles who were forced to evacuate as the fires spread and intensified. He has posted regular updates on X, showing charred ruins of homes near his, and had been convinced his house would fare no better, reports AP. “So many beautiful messages from all of you,” he posted later Friday. “I’m so happy and grateful, but honestly the entire area looks like the dark side of the moon.” Numerous celebrities, from Paris Hilton to Billy Crystal, have confirmed their homes were lost or sustained damage in blazes burning in and around Los Angeles. At least 10 people have died, and thousands of structures and vehicles have been destroyed.

Sam Moore, the surviving half and higher voice of the 1960s duo Sam & Dave that was known for such definitive hits of the era as “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I'm Comin,’” has died. He was 89. Publicist Jeremy Westby said Moore died Friday morning in Coral Gables, Florida, due to complications while recovering from surgery. No additional details were immediately available. Moore, whose admirers ranged from Al Green to Bruce Springsteen, was inducted with Dave Prater into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. “Over on E Street, we are heartbroken to hear of the death of Sam Moore, one of America's greatest soul voices,” Springsteen said Saturday on Instagram. “He was filled with stories of the halcyon days of soul music, and to the end had that edge of deep authenticity in his voice I could only wonder at.” At the Memphis, Tennessee-based Stax Records, Moore and Prater ranked only behind Otis Redding as the label's biggest stars. They transformed the “call and response” of gospel music into a frenzied stage show and recorded some of soul music’s most enduring hits, which also included “You Don’t Know Like I Know,” “When Something is Wrong With My Baby” and “I Thank You.” Most of their hits were written and produced by the team of Isaac Hayes and David Porter and featured the Stax house band Booker T. & the MGs, whose guitarist Steve Cropper received one of music’s most famous shoutouts when Sam & Dave called “Play it, Steve” midway through “Soul Man.” Read: James Woods posts on X that his house survived LA wildfires Like many ’60s soul acts, Sam & Dave faded after the decade ended. But “Soul Man” hit the charts again in the late 1970s when “Blues Brothers” John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd recorded it with many of the same musicians. Moore had mixed feelings about the hit becoming associated with the “Saturday Night Live” stars, remembering how young people believed it originated with the Blues Brothers. In 2008, the movie “Soul Men” depicted a pair of aging, estranged singers who bore more than a little resemblance to Sam & Dave. Moore lost a lawsuit claiming the resemblance was too close. He also spent years suing Prater after Prater hired a substitute and toured as the New Sam & Dave. Prater died in a 1988 car crash in Georgia. In 1993, Moore was among numerous artists who pressed legal claims that the record industry had cheated them out of retirement benefits. Moore and other artists sued multiple record companies and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. Moore told The Associated Press in 1994 that he joined the legal effort after learning, despite his million-selling records, his pension amounted to just $2,285, which he could take as a lump sum or in payments of $73 monthly. “Two thousand dollars for my lifetime?” Moore said then. “If you’re making a profit off of me, give me some too. Don’t give me cornbread and tell me it’s biscuits.” Moore also became involved in politics. He wrote the song “Dole Man,” modeled on “Soul Man,” for Republican Bob Dole’s presidential campaign in 1996. In 2017, he was among the few entertainers who performed for Republican President Donald Trump’s inaugural festivities. Eight years earlier, Moore had objected when Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s campaign used “Hold On, I’m Comin’.” Read more: Alec Baldwin sues for malicious prosecution after 'Rust' set shooting case dismissed Moore was born Oct. 12, 1935, in Miami and got his start singing in church. He and Prater performed in soul and R&B clubs in the 1950s, but didn’t meet until 1961 in Miami. Moore helped coach Prater on the lyrics of a song and they quickly became a popular local duo. In 1965, after signing with Atlantic Records, producer Jerry Wexler sent them to the label’s Stax subsidiary in Memphis. Moore and Prater argued often and Moore told the AP in 2006 that a drug habit, which he kicked in 1981, played a part in the band’s troubles and later made entertainment executives leery of giving him a fresh start. The duo broke up in 1970 and neither had another major hit, though Moore did work often with Springsteen, whom Moore would call one of his closest friends. They performed together on stage and sang on each other's albums, including on the high energy duet “Real World.” “RIP Sam Moore," Springsteen sideman Steve Van Zandt posted on X. "Him and Dave Prater were the inspiration for me and Johnny to start Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. An important righteous wonderful man.”   He married his wife, Joyce, in 1982, and she helped him get treatment for his addiction that he credited with saving his life. “I did a lot of cruise ships, I did a lot of oldies shows," during those struggles, he said, adding that he once opened for a group of Elvis impersonators. “That’s funny to think back to it now. And I did a lot of shows where if I did a show with an oldie show, I had to actually audition," he said. "But you know what? You keep your mouth shut and you get up there and you sing as hard and perform as hard as you can, and get the little money and go on about your business and try and pay those bills. I’m laughing about it now, but at that time, man, it was really serious.” Moore kept recording and singing. He was a frequent performer at the Kennedy Center Honors and sang for Obama among other presidents. Moore is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughter, Michell; and two grandchildren.

The 23rd Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF), showcasing 220 movies from 75 countries in five venues across the capital, officially kicked off on Saturday in the main auditorium of the capital’s National Museum. The festival this year is observing 50 years of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, and the inauguration ceremony on Saturday was joined by the Information and Broadcasting Adviser to the Interim Government Md Nahid Islam. Prior to inaugurating the festival, the adviser, along with the special guests including Yao Wen, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh and Xu Yang, Director of the International Department of the Chinese Film Administration, inaugurated the poster exhibition corner of Chinese films outside the auditorium. Festival Committee Executive Member and Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Jalal Ahmed presided over the opening ceremony; which was also joined by the face of the festival, the DIFF Director Ahmed Muztaba Zamal, alongside the festival committee Chairperson Kishwar Kamal and the Asian Competition Section Jury Board member, veteran actor Ilias Kanchan. With an enthralling musical performance of Bangladesh's renowned band Joler Gaan, the 23rd edition began with Xu Yang’s gratitude note, who thanked the Rainbow Film Society authority for inviting him to the Dhaka International Film Festival this year, and the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh for organising this year's China Film Week, where popular Chinese films are being showcased. Ambassador Yao Wen said: “Dhaka International Film Festival is a medium of vibrant cultural exchange between Bangladesh and different countries across the world. Besides this flagship film festival in Dhaka, various events have started in China to celebrate 50 years of China's diplomatic relations with Bangladesh.” The Chinese Ambassador informed at the inauguration ceremony that a total of 20 unique and special Chinese films will be screened at this year’s Dhaka International Film Festival, and 15 Chinese film professionals will engage in in-depth interactions with Bangladeshi audiences, as part of the DIFF 2025 activities. Observing a minute of silence to commemorate the martyrs of the anti-fascist movement in July and urging film enthusiasts to highlight Bangladesh’s history, culture and struggles in the world forum, adviser Nahid Islam stated that the Dhaka International Film Festival will serve as an important medium of cultural exchange. The advisor mentioned the role of cinema in the development of Bangladesh's art and culture, stating that cinema is not merely a medium of entertainment; it is also a significant driver of social change. Read: 23rd Dhaka International Film Festival begins Saturday Regarding the July mass uprising, Nahid said that this uprising played an important role in establishing democracy in Bangladesh. He urged filmmakers to create films about the reality and spirit of the July mass uprising. Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission and Executive Member of the Festival Committee said, "This flagship film festival of Bangladesh is going to celebrate its silver jubilee soon, and If the festival is listed for regular allocation of funds from the Ministry of Finance and Information and Broadcasting, there will be no more worries about the festival every year." Read more: National Board of Review Awards hold space for ‘Wicked’ With China being the country of focus this year, the 2025 edition of DIFF then officially premiered its maiden film ‘Moon Man’ (directed by Zhang Chiyu) at 7 pm. From Sunday, the festival will continue screenings at the Bangladesh National Museum; Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA); Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), Dhanmondi; Green University of Bangladesh and North South University in the capital. The films will be screened under the Asian Competition Section, Retrospective Section, Bangladesh Panorama, Wide Angle, Cinema of the World, Children's Film, Spiritual Films, Short and Independent Film and Women's Film Session.

Filming for the extremely popular BTV programme “Ityadi,” hosted by Hanif Sanket, was cancelled due to a violent altercation and vandalism in Thakurgaon district on Thursday night. An episode of “Ityadi” was being filmed at the historic Raja Tongkanath Palace in Ranisankail upazila when chaos ensued after a crowd of over 100,000 people gathered for the event, far exceeding the 4,000 entrance passes that had been distributed. A retrospective of 2024 events in Bangladesh's music industry As tensions flared over seating arrangements, a fight broke out, leading to the destruction of property and the vandalism of equipment, according to locals. Despite repeated attempts by the organisers to control the situation, the unrest escalated, forcing the authorities to halt the filming before its scheduled conclusion. Expressing disappointment, Hanif Sanket said, “Despite trying hard, I could not calm you down. I wanted to organise a beautiful event for you, but that was no longer possible. I could not, I failed.” Following the cancellation, the audiences were escorted out of the venue, and some parts of the programme were filmed later in the night.