United News of Bangladesh

Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) celebrated Fête de la Musique 2025 at Café la Véranda on Friday, bringing together over 40 musicians and hundreds of music lovers in a spirited showcase of musical diversity and community. The event featured performances across genres—from traditional Bangladeshi tunes to contemporary fusion, acoustic solos to energetic ensembles—showcasing both amateur and professional talents. The vibe was alive with rhythm and harmony, as both amateur and professional musicians took the stage to share their passion and talent.

BTS member Suga has officially completed his mandatory military service, marking the full return of all seven members of the global K-pop sensation from enlistment duties. Suga, who served as a social service agent—an alternative to active-duty military service—was formally discharged on Wednesday after using his remaining leave days. His official release date is set for Saturday, according to BTS’ label, Big Hit Entertainment. No public event has been scheduled to mark the occasion, with the agency citing concerns over potential overcrowding. This milestone paves the way for a long-awaited reunion of all BTS members, who are expected to return as a full group in 2025. Last week, RM and V completed their military service, followed by Jimin and Jung Kook a day later. The four had enlisted together in December 2023. Jin, the oldest member, was discharged in June 2024, while J-Hope completed his service in October 2023. Of the seven members, six served in the army, while Suga’s alternative service was granted due to a shoulder surgery in 2020. BTS aims for 2025 reunion as RM and V complete military service South Korea mandates military service of 18–21 months for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, as a defense measure against threats from North Korea. Though exemptions are available for certain athletes and artists, K-pop idols like BTS are not automatically eligible. A 2020 revision of the Military Service Act allowed BTS members to delay enlistment until age 30. In 2022, the group decided to fulfill their duties despite public debate over possible exemptions. Source: With inputs from agency 

A star-studded rendezvous took place on Wednesday night marking the special screening of 'Utshob', the family audience-oriented cinema that has become critically and commercially successful after being released this Eid. The special screening at Star Cineplex's SKS Tower branch was attended by several noted personalities, including renowned filmmaker and Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, economist and BRAC Chairperson Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, teacher-writer-columnist Anu Muhammad, politician Zonayed Saki, and prominent artists and professionals from the media industry. Prior to the screening, the film's director Tanim Noor welcomed the guests and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who supported the film. Farooki said that films like 'Utshob' can inspire audiences to return to theatres and revive the culture of cinema-going. “When we started working on television, our goal was to tell our own stories in our own way. Today’s young filmmakers are doing just that, and 'Utshob' is a great example,” said Farooki while speaking at a special screening of the film. Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan Return: AI revives kung fu classics and debuts futuristic film in Shanghai Anu Muhammad, who came to a movie theatre after a long hiatus to watch this particular film, said he was drawn by the film’s positive reception from audiences. “Films like 'Utshob' create an urge among people to come to theatres again,” he said prior to the screening. Redoan Rony, CEO of Chorki—the film’s co-producer and OTT partner—highlighted the film’s significance, saying, “After many years, families are coming together to enjoy a film. This is a splendid for our industry.” Producer of the film from Dope Productions Krishnendu Chattopadhyay expressed gratitude to the viewers, noting the enthusiasm of families attending the screenings. He also announced that the film will be released internationally starting June 20. Veteran actor Zahid Hasan, returning to the big screen with 'Utshob' after a long break, was visibly emotional during the event. “It feels like Eid for me today,” he said. The actor had been unwell during Eid and was absent from earlier promotions, making this his first appearance alongside the 'Utshob' team. “Whenever someone shows me love or affection, I get overwhelmed with emotion,” Zahid shared, his voice breaking as fellow actress Aupee Karim also wiped away tears standing behind him. “I’ve done several films in my career and even won a National Award, but no film has entered my life like this one. I’ve never seen this much enthusiasm from the crowd; never faced so many cameras at once. This is a huge gift in my life,” he emotionally stated. Besides Zahid Hasan as the central character, 'Utshob' features a star-studded cast including Tariq Anam Khan, Chanchal Chowdhury, Jaya Ahsan, Aupee Karim, Afsana Mimi, Azad Abul Kalam, Intekhab Dinar, Sunerah Binte Kamal, Sadia Ayman, and Soumya Jyoti in key roles. Special guests at the screening also included Jayanto Chattopadhyay, Anisul Hoque, Shahriar Shakil, Brindaban Das, Afsana Ara Bindu, Shariful Raj, Kazi Nowshaba, Azmeri Haque Badhan, Bijori Barkatullah, Imtiaz Borshon, Sumon Anwar, Nuhash Humayun, Gultekin Ahmed and Nowrin Jahan Khan Jenny, among others. Son of Sardaar 2: Ajay Devgn’s action comedy set for July 25 release 'Utshob' features two songs—“Tumi” by Level Five and “Dhushor Shomoy” by Artcell. Members of both bands were also present at the event. The story of 'Utshob' was written by Tanim Noor, Ayman Asib Shadhin, Sushmoy Sarkar, and Samiul Bhuiyan. Cinematography was done by eminent cinematographer Rashed Zaman, with screenplay and dialogue by Ayman Asib Shadhin and Samiul Bhuiyan. Presented by BRAC Bank, the film is produced by Dope Productions in association with Chorki, with Laughing Elephant as a co-producing partner. The film's international distribution is being handled by Shopno Scarecrow and Poth Productions.  

Martial arts legends Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li could soon grace the screen once more, this time in digitally resurrected form, as China launches an ambitious AI-powered revival of classic kung fu cinema. Unveiled at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, the China Film Foundation, alongside industry partners, announced two major initiatives under the Kung Fu Film Heritage Project: an AI-led restoration of 100 iconic martial arts films, and the debut of A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Border, the world’s first fully AI-produced animated feature. According to Variety, the restoration project will use artificial intelligence to remaster titles such as Fist of Fury, The Big Boss, Drunken Master and Once Upon a Time in China, enhancing image and sound while preserving their original aesthetic and storytelling. “From Bruce Lee to Jackie Chan, from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to Wolf Warrior, these films have shown the world the vitality and spirit of the Chinese people,” said Zhang Qilin, chair of the China Film Foundation. “They are our cinematic calling cards to the world.” In the project’s first phase, ten films will be prioritised, backed by an initial investment of RMB100 million (USD13.9 million), confirmed Canxing Media chair Tian Ming. ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ takes off with $83.7M opening, surpassing ‘Lilo & Stitch’ “AI is the brush, but creativity is the soul,” Tian said. “Classic kung fu films embody China’s spiritual backbone. We’re inviting global partners to join this cultural and technological reboot.” Meanwhile, A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Border, a futuristic reimagining of John Woo’s crime classic, premiered at the festival. Created entirely by a 30-person team at Quantum Animation using a full-stack AI pipeline from scripting and modelling to animation and rendering the film exemplifies AI’s growing influence in creative production. “This entire animated feature was made by just 30 people,” said producer Zhang Qing. “AI has collapsed the barrier between creativity and execution. The production cycle has gone from years to months.” Presented as a proof-of-concept for the future of Chinese genre storytelling, Cyber Border blends martial arts and sci-fi elements while encouraging creators to adapt IPs like Wong Fei-hung and Nezha into games and interactive formats.

More than three decades after his first Oscar nomination, Tom Cruise is finally set to receive an Academy Award — though not for a specific performance. The 62-year-old actor will be honored with an Honorary Oscar at the upcoming Governors Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Tuesday. Joining Cruise in receiving honorary statuettes are choreographer and producer Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas, while Dolly Parton will be recognized with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her long-standing philanthropic work, particularly in literacy and education. “These four icons have made lasting contributions to film and beyond,” Academy President Janet Yang said. “Their impact on the industry and the broader creative community continues to inspire.” Although Cruise has been nominated four times — including Best Actor nods for Born on the Fourth of July and Jerry Maguire, a Supporting Actor nomination for Magnolia, and a Best Picture nomination as a producer of Top Gun: Maverick — he has never won a competitive Oscar. He’s also been a major advocate for the cinematic experience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yang highlighted Cruise’s “tireless dedication to filmmaking, theatrical releases, and the stunt industry.” Debbie Allen, 75, despite her extensive work across dance, acting, and production, has never received an Oscar nomination. However, she has choreographed seven Oscar ceremonies, four of which earned Primetime Emmy nominations. Wynn Thomas, another first-time Oscar honoree, is known for his collaborations with director Spike Lee on films such as Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing, and Da 5 Bloods. His production design work has featured in numerous Oscar-nominated films, including the Oscar-winning A Beautiful Mind. Dolly Parton, a two-time Oscar nominee for Best Original Song (9 to 5 and Travelin’ Thru), will be honored for her humanitarian efforts through initiatives like the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library, which distributes free books to children worldwide. Yang described Parton as embodying the values of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The 2024 Governors Awards will take place on November 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. The event, which honors lifetime achievement and service to the film industry, will not be televised. Last year’s recipients included the late Quincy Jones, Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, and filmmaker Richard Curtis. Honorees are chosen by the Academy’s Board of Governors, recognizing those who have made enduring contributions to cinema and the arts.   

Blue Lock is a Japanese sports manga and anime series that centres around football (soccer), featuring unique and high-stakes twists. So far, 306 chapters under 34 volumes have been released. Spoilers for the 307th chapter of the Blue Lock series were released on June 17, 2025. Let's find out the probable significant developments in the storyline. What Is Going To Happen in the Blue Lock Chapter 307 . Isagi's Journey to Spain The chapter, titled "Cocky Chicken or Arrogant Chicken", begins with Yoichi Isagi arriving in Spain. He receives a special assignment from Ego Jinpachi, which includes attending various football matches across Europe. His first stop is the Copa Del Rey final between Chocorid and FC Barcelona. A Chance Encounter Before the match, Isagi struggles with the language barrier while trying to order food at a restaurant. He uses a translation device from the Mikage Corporation to communicate with a local man. The man shares his feelings of jealousy and loneliness, revealing a deeper emotional side.  Read more: Netflix Originals July 2025 Lineup: Top 10 Must-Watch Titles Meeting Bunny Iglesias Later, at the match, Isagi notices Bunny Iglesias, a 19-year-old forward for FC Barcha and a member of the New Generation World 11. Bunny is known for his impressive skills and has been a significant influence on players like Sae Itoshi. Isagi wonders if he will face Bunny in the upcoming U-20 World Cup.  To Conclude Overall, Blue Lock Chapter 307 shifts the setting from Japan to Europe, introducing international competition and new rivals. Bunny Iglesias appears to be a key rival figure—his raw talent and contrasting attitude to Isagi could spark future clashes. The return of Sae Itoshi and the mention of Nagi/Buratsuta’s subplot suggest multiple story threads are converging. These developments set the stage for exciting future matches and character interactions in the Blue Lock universe. Read more: June 2025 South Indian Film Slate: Top 12 Pan-Indian Releases

'Bhashajog: Celebrating Expression through Language in Printmaking', a weeklong printmaking art workshop has recently begun at the National Art Gallery Plaza of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), Shegun Bagicha in the capital.. A press conference on the ongoing workshop was held on Monday afternoon at the venue, where BSA’s Director of the Fine Arts Department Mostafa Zaman, Deputy Director Prodyot Kumar Das, and the workshop’s director Zafar Iqbal briefed the media about the theme, goals, and future plans of the initiative, and responded to questions from journalists. The event has been organised by the Department of Fine Arts at BSA in collaboration with Shunno Art Space and Chalantika Travelling Studio. The speakers at the press conference informed that the month-long programme has been underway in preparation, and the workshop formally began on June 13 at the National Art Gallery Plaza, which will continue until June 21. Each day, the workshop is divided into four sessions, with 20 registered participants in each. Netflix Originals July 2025 Lineup: Top 10 Must-Watch Titles After its Dhaka debut, the workshop is scheduled to travel across various districts in the country, including Madhupur in Tangail, Birishiri in Netrokona, Thakurgaon, Panchagarh, Sylhet, Bandarban, Rangamati, and Khagrachari in its first phase.  Eventually, it aims to be hosted in every district of Bangladesh; and the programme will include participation from local communities, highlighting their languages and expressions through printmaking. Participants will express their languages, dialects, and cultural identities through visual art and writing, ultimately contributing to a collective artwork. Through this initiative, the diversity of language, personal and expressive freedom, and community-based artistic practices will be celebrated via the medium of printmaking. Organisers highlighted that Bhashajog is an inclusive and apolitical artistic celebration, aiming to bridge diverse voices through collaborative print-based art. One of the unique features of the event is the mobile printmaking workshop facilitated by Chalantika Travelling Studio, along with open public exhibitions, interactive sessions, and participatory events designed to amplify the multiplicity of voices from across the country. Ashfaque Nipun slams inaction against mob attacks as ‘Taandob’ screening suspended in Tangail Through these initiatives, the project seeks to create a healthy platform for artistic expression, while preserving the linguistic diversity and cultural heritage of Bangladesh in print form. At the press conference, the organisers sought support from the media to promote the message and reach of Bhashajog, celebrating the power of language, the beauty of identity, and the joy of expression through printmaking.

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has responded to long-standing allegations that his 2014 film PK was anti-religious or promoted "love jihad," stating that such claims are baseless. In an interview with India TV, Khan clarified the film’s message and addressed renewed criticism that has surfaced over the years. “Those accusations are completely false,” Aamir said. “We never intended to target any religion. We hold every religion and its followers in high regard. The film’s core message was about being wary of those who misuse religion to deceive people and exploit them financially — and such individuals exist in every religion,” he explained. PK sparked widespread debate for its critique of organized religion and drew criticism for a subplot involving a Hindu woman (played by Anushka Sharma) falling in love with a Pakistani Muslim man (played by Sushant Singh Rajput). Critics accused the film of subtly promoting “love jihad” — a term used by some to allege a supposed plot by Muslim men to convert non-Muslim women through marriage. Refuting this narrative, Aamir said, “When people from different religions, especially Hindus and Muslims, fall in love and get married, it isn’t necessarily ‘love jihad.’ It’s just humanity — something that transcends religion.” 'Nowadays, Women Take Half Of Your Money'; Salman Khan on Kapil Show Highlighting his own family, he questioned whether the marriages of his sisters and daughter to Hindu men would also be labeled “love jihad.” Aamir’s sister Farhat is married to Rajeev Dutta, and his other sister Nikhat is married to Santosh Hegde. His daughter Ira recently tied the knot with Nupur Shikhare. Aamir himself has been married to two Hindu women — Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao. When asked about the Muslim surnames of his children — Ira Khan, Junaid Khan, and Azad Rao Khan — despite his Hindu partners, Aamir said, “Their names were chosen by their mothers. I didn’t interfere. Honestly, husbands don’t usually have much say in such matters.” He added that Ira’s name was picked from Maneka Gandhi’s book The Penguin Book of Hindu Names, while Azad was named after Maulana Azad, Aamir’s ancestor and a noted freedom fighter who served as India’s first Education Minister. On the professional front, Aamir Khan will next appear in Sitaare Zameen Par, co-starring Genelia D'Souza. The film, directed by RS Prasanna, is set to release on June 20. Source: With inputs from NDTV 

Marking the occasion of International Father’s Day 2025, netizens including several popular names from the media and entertainment industry posted emotional tributes on social media throughout Sunday, sharing their heartfelt wishes and wonderful memories. Renowned director Ashfaque Nipun paid tribute to his late father with an emotional Facebook post and a handsome-looking photograph of his father, with the caption: “Happy Father's day Abba. The older I grow, the more I discover how much impact you've left on me even though you left us when I was a child.” “You've provided us with a secured future. They say I am your look alike but I wish I got half of your courage, dashing look, charisma, smartness and focus. I hope you are happy watching me trying to grow, from up there. Love you and miss you a lot Abba,” Nipun wrote on Sunday. Actress Sabnam Faria also remembered her late father with a heartfelt Facebook post, noting that Father’s Day changed in meaning for her after his passing. She said this July marks his 8th death anniversary, a time that still feels heavy despite the years. Faria described her father as a principled and loving man—an ideal she feels no one has ever matched. From being a government doctor to a devoted family man, he left an indelible impression on her life. She also expressed gratitude for the fatherly roles played by her two brothers-in-law, praising their constant support and love. Faria noted how her young nephews, whom she lovingly calls “Baba,” now embody that spirit of fatherhood. Popular actress Apu Biswas shared a touching video of her son Abram Khan Joy playing harmonium, wishing for blessings and protection over the father-son bond. The post included mentions of Joy’s father, superstar Shakib Khan, filled with love emojis and reverence. Shobnom Bubly, another Dhallywood actress and mother to Shakib Khan’s other son Shehzad Khan Bir, also shared a Father's Day message. With a photo of Shakib cuddling their son, she captioned it: “Like father, like son.” Actor Chanchal Chowdhury posted a sketched portrait of his father, Radha Gobinda Chowdhury, with the simple caption “Baba.” The minimalist tribute resonated deeply with fans for its understated emotion. Actress Shirin Shila remembered both her biological father and her father-in-law, calling them both "Abbu" with equal love. She asked for prayers for both fathers, expressing deep emotional bonds with them. Singer Atiya Anisha shared a moving post describing her father as her closest friend and biggest source of strength. She wrote about his unconditional support and prayed for his health and long life under Allah’s blessings. Father’s Day, first celebrated in 1908 in Fairmont, West Virginia, has grown into a global tribute to fatherhood. Recognized officially in 1966 by US President Lyndon B Johnson, the day is now observed on the third Sunday of June in many countries.

Salman Khan will appear as the first guest on the upcoming season of The Great Indian Kapil Show, which begins streaming on Netflix from June 21. Ahead of the episode's release, a clip of Salman joking about divorce and alimony has gone viral on social media. In the snippet, Salman humorously reflects on the rising rate of divorces, saying, “Earlier, couples used to make sacrifices for each other, and there was a level of tolerance. Now, something as minor as a leg landing on someone at night or snoring can lead to a divorce.” He continued, “Divorces now happen over the smallest misunderstandings. And after it’s over, the woman walks away with half the man’s money.” His comments had the live audience roaring with laughter, along with host Kapil Sharma and co-stars Archana Puran Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu. The video clip has quickly gained attention online, with fans echoing Salman’s sentiments. Ram Charan’s ‘The India House’ set flooded after water tank burst On the work front, Salman Khan was last seen in AR Murugadoss’ action thriller Sikandar, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, and Sathyaraj. He is also set to portray Colonel B Santosh Babu in an upcoming film based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film is inspired by the book India’s Most Fearless 3. Source: With input from NDTV