United News of Bangladesh

Renowned production house Laser Vision has issued a public apology after actress Jannatul Sumaiya Heme expressed outrage over the use of her photo in what she described as an “objectionable and fabricated” social media post. The controversy began after Laser Vision uploaded short clips of a drama on its YouTube channel and later shared related promotional materials on Facebook. Among these was a photo card featuring Heme’s image with what she alleged were “distasteful, made-up jokes” written over it, published without her consent. Taking to Facebook on Sunday night, Heme voiced her anger, writing: “If you want views or dollars, make good dramas. Why do you post vulgar, fabricated jokes using actresses’ photos without permission? Please do not use my pictures in this way. I have never delivered such dialogues in any drama. Your posts are misleading people. As an artist, this is insulting for me. Please refrain from doing such things in the future.” Actress Heme to feature in her first web film ‘The Holy Gun’ Her post quickly drew attention, with actor Niloy Alamgir sharing it to further highlight the issue. Following the backlash, Laser Vision deleted the photo and posted an apology on its official Facebook page, tagging both Heme and Niloy.  The statement of the production house read: “At Laser Vision, we always remain careful about maintaining clean and tasteful content, and we regard all artists and cultural workers with respect. Dear actress Heme, we are deeply ashamed and sorry if our unintended mistake has hurt you. Such an error will never be repeated in the future.”

Bangladesh Photographic Society (BPS), in association with over 60 like-minded organisations from across the country, celebrated World Photography Day on Tuesday with an array of colourful programmes. This year, the celebration was held under the theme “Let's Learn to Read Visual Language.” The main programme began in the morning at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka. The opening segment featured a performance titled “Tumi Ki Keboli Chhobi” by Dhaka Art and Dance Centre, followed by a musical performance from Lalon Jatra. Bangladesh Performance Art Group’s Sujon then presented a performance titled “Prem to Frame.” A brief discussion session started at 9:30 am joined by BPS General Secretary Zakirul Majed Konok, President M Yusuf Tushar, noted photographers Dr Shahidul Alam, Bulbul Ahmed, Nafiz Ahmed Nadvi (Head of BPS Standing Committee), Akkas Mahmud and Kamal Ahmed. The speakers highlighted the significance of the day and strongly urged for the introduction of a Photography Department at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA). The inaugural ceremony was conducted by noted theatre personality Shankar Shawjal and eminent photographer Imtiaz Alam Beg. Following the discussions, a colourful procession was brought out from Shaheed Minar which paraded around Dhaka University’s TSC area. As part of the day’s programmes, works of 12 late eminent Bangladeshi photographers were exhibited at Shaheed Minar. They included Manzoor Alam Beg, Golam Kasem Daddy, Naibuddin Ahmed, Nawajesh Ahmed, Sayeeda Khanam, Rashid Talukder, Bijon Sarkar, Amanul Huq, Anwar Hossain, Mohammad Alam, Debabrata Chowdhury, and Golam Mostafa. More than 60 organisations including Begart Institute of Photography, Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, Rajshahi Photographic Society, Faridpur Photographic Society, Association of Bangladesh Photographers (ABP), Legendary Moment Photography Society, Dhaka Photographers’ Club, Sylhet Photographic Society, Narayanganj Photographic Club, Counter Foto, Pabna Photographers Forum, Khulna Photographic Society, Comilla Photographic Society, Bogura Photography Club, Bhola Photography Club, Jainta Photographic Society, Bangladesh Performance Art Group, Environmental Photographic Society (EPS), Young Photographers’ Panel of Bangladesh, Bright Art Studio joined BPS in celebrating the day. University-based photographic groups that participated in the celebration included Dhaka University Photographic Society, Jahangirnagar University Photographic Society, Rajshahi University Photographic Club, East West University Photography Club, North South University Art and Photography Club, Metropolitan University Photographic Society, Gono University Photographic Society, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Photographic Society, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC) Photography Society, Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) Photography Club, and MIST Photographic Society.  

Actor Saswata Chatterjee, who plays a key role in The Bengal Files, has distanced himself from controversy over alleged historical distortions in the film. In a recent interview, Chatterjee said, “I am just an actor. I liked the character and played it. I am not a historian to judge whether history is being distorted. People who feel Bengal is being belittled can take legal action. There is no point in just making noise.” He added that during filming, the movie was titled Delhi Files, and he only learned about the title change after shooting was completed. “I will not understand why it happened until I watch the film,” he said. Shah Rukh Khan confirms cameo in son Aryan’s directorial debut ‘The Ba*ds of Bollywood’** Chatterjee described his character as a rare villainous role, adding, “Nowadays, you only get to know your track, your character. I found it amazing.” The film’s trailer launch on August 16 faced disruption in Kolkata, reportedly due to political pressure, but later took place at a private hotel. The Bengal Files, featuring Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, and others, is scheduled for release on September 5, 2025. Source: NDTV

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has confirmed that he will make a cameo appearance in his son Aryan Khan’s upcoming directorial debut, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*. The Netflix series, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, marks Aryan’s first project as a director and has been generating buzz since its official announcement on February 3 this year. SRK, who returned to his popular ‘Ask SRK’ session on X (formerly Twitter) after a long break, responded to a fan asking if he would appear in Aryan’s project. “Lots of lovely friends from the industry have participated in Aryan’s series. They’ve been very gracious and loving toward him. Main toh hun hi… Haq se!” he wrote. When another fan sought his reaction to Aryan’s work as a director, Shah Rukh said: “It’s very good. You all see and decide… but it’s very entertaining, wacky, and emotional. Honest review!” The series, co-created by Bilal Siddiqi and Manav Chauhan, follows an ambitious outsider and his friends as they navigate the larger-than-life yet uncertain world of Bollywood. Aryan has also contributed to the writing alongside the co-creators. Param Sundari faces backlash over Church scene Although the release date is yet to be announced, reports suggest the series may feature cameos by actors including Bobby Deol and Ranbir Kapoor. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan recently won his first National Film Award. He bagged the Best Actor title at the 71st National Film Awards for his performance in Jawan, which followed the blockbuster success of Pathaan. Both films performed strongly at the box office, with Jawan earning him the prestigious award. Source: NDTV 

Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), in collaboration with the Bangladesh Hawaiian Guitar Shilpi Parishad (BHGSP), hosted a captivating musical programme titled 'An Evening of Hawaiian Guitar' on Saturday at its Auditorium Nouvelle Vague in the capital’s Dhanmondi. The evening enthralled audiences with soulful performances by 14 skilled artists, who presented a diverse repertoire of classical, folk and contemporary compositions. Through their signature slide melodies and soothing tonal beauty, the performers highlighted the instrument’s versatility and cultural depth. Beshi Joss dreams of taking Bangladeshi guitars and drums global Rashed Ahmed, Chief News Editor of Maasranga Television, attended the event as the chief guest. The programme was presided over by Guitar Guru Md Hasanur Rahman Bachchu, president of BHGSP. Founded in 1992, the Bangladesh Hawaiian Guitar Shilpi Parishad has been at the forefront of popularising the Hawaiian guitar in Bangladesh.  Its roots go back to 1990 when the National Hawaiian Guitar Festival Council, with support from the Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts (BAFA), organised a landmark three-day festival featuring noted guitarists including Panna Ahmed, Enamul Kabir, Akram Hossain, Syed Lutful Haque, Hasanur Rahman Bacchu, and Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Bidhu. BHGSP has since then continued its efforts to inspire appreciation for the Hawaiian guitar, nurture emerging talents, and foster cultural harmony through concerts, workshops and collaborations.

Tristan Rogers, known for his iconic role as Robert Scorpio on ABC’s “General Hospital,” has died at the age of 79, less than a month after making a special appearance on the show. “The entire ‘General Hospital’ family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers' passing,” said executive producer Frank Valentini. “Tristan captivated our fans for 45 years, and Port Charles will not be the same without him or Robert Scorpio.” Born in Melbourne, Australia, Rogers began his career in his early twenties as a drummer in a rock band. After the band disbanded, he turned to commercial work, modeling, and eventually acting. He moved to Los Angeles to pursue Hollywood roles and landed a two-day part on “General Hospital” in 1980. His character, initially called “CK8,” was later named Robert Scorpio, becoming a long-running fixture on the show. How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars Scorpio’s on-again, off-again romance with Holly Sutton, played by Emma Samms, and storylines with spy Anna Devane, played by Finola Hughes, remained fan favorites. Scorpio and Devane shared a daughter, Robin (Kimberly McCullough). In Rogers’ final episode in July, it was revealed his character was battling lung cancer. Rogers’ other acting credits include “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “The Young & the Restless,” and “Studio City,” which earned him a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series. He is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, a daughter, and a son.   Source: Agency  

Legendary American thrash metal band Megadeth announced Thursday that their upcoming album will be their last, and they plan to launch a farewell tour in 2026. Founder and frontman Dave Mustaine said the timing allows the band to retire “on top” after decades of global success. “Most musicians don’t get to go out on their own terms… I have traveled the world and made millions of fans. The hardest part is saying goodbye to them,” he said. BTS’ ‘Dynamite’ ranks 34th on Apple Music’s decade list Details on the album title, release date, and remaining tour stops have yet to be disclosed. Mustaine urged fans to celebrate the band’s legacy, highlighting their influence on guitar music and the metal genre. The announcement followed a teaser post on Wednesday reading, “The end is near…” Megadeth was formed in 1983 after Mustaine’s departure from Metallica and released their debut album, Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!, in 1985.   Source: Agency

Entertainment lovers have a packed week ahead with a mix of theatrical releases and new shows on OTT platforms. From thrilling mysteries to fun reality shows, there’s something for every viewer. In theatres, Tribanadhari Barbarik (Aug 22) blends myth and mystery under Mohan Srivatsa’s direction, starring Motta Rajendran, Sanchi Rai and Vasishta N. Simha. OTT platforms are bringing diverse content: Netflix premieres Aema (Aug 22), a 1980s K-drama about two friends making a controversial film, and Bon Appétit, Your Majesty (Aug 23), a time-travel romance featuring chef Yeon Ji-young in the Joseon era. Twelve (Aug 23, Disney+) follows 12 angels on Earth fighting evil, each reflecting a zodiac sign. Hostage (Aug 21, Netflix) offers a gripping political thriller, while Long Story Short (Aug 22, Netflix) explores a dysfunctional family in animated form. The documentary The Truth About Jussie Smollett? (Aug 22, Netflix) revisits the actor’s controversial case. Gold Rush Gang (Aug 21, Netflix) delivers a post-WWII Western adventure. Jolly LLB 3 Teaser: Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi in Hilarious Jolly vs Jolly Reality fans can tune in to Bigg Boss Season 19 (Aug 24, JioHotstar), with Salman Khan returning as host and contestants including Gautami Kapoor, Dheeraj Dhoopar and Gaurav Taneja. Peacemaker Season 2 (Aug 22, JioHotstar) continues the DC Universe saga with John Cena reprising his role. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Dooars’ biodiversity in a new documentary directed by Shaon Pritam Baral, narrated by Dia Mirza, highlighting red pandas, one-horned rhinos and more. Source: Agency 

South Korea’s Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a 30 million won ($21,600) damages claim by an American composer who alleged that Pinkfong, a South Korean children’s content company, plagiarized his version of “Baby Shark,” ending a six-year legal dispute over the globally popular children’s song. The court upheld lower court rulings from 2021 and 2023, which found no evidence that Pinkfong infringed Jonathan Wright’s, also known as Johnny Only, copyright. Wright had recorded his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfong’s, but both were based on a traditional folk melody widely used in U.S. children’s summer camps. South Korean prosecutors move to arrest jailed ex-President Yoon’s wife The judges ruled that Wright’s version did not significantly differ from the original melody to qualify as a protected creative work, and that Pinkfong’s song contained clear distinctions. The Supreme Court emphasized that the decision reaffirms established principles regarding derivative works based on folk tunes. “The Supreme Court accepts the lower court’s finding that the plaintiff’s song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune to be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work,” the court said. Pinkfong’s “Baby Shark,” released on YouTube in 2015, became a global sensation, with the original video now surpassing 16 billion views and reaching No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. The franchise has generated 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025 and expanded into TV shows, Netflix specials, movies, apps, and international musicals.   Source: Agency

Beyoncé has added an Emmy Award to her record 35 Grammy wins, marking another milestone in her career. The pop icon, whose legal name is Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, was among a team of six honored with the award for outstanding costumes for a variety, nonfiction or reality program for the “Beyoncé Bowl” — her Western-themed halftime performance during Netflix’s Christmas Day NFL game between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans. The show, staged in her hometown of Houston, featured the live debut of songs from her Cowboy Carter album. The win is Beyoncé’s first Emmy after 10 previous nominations without success, putting her halfway toward the coveted EGOT status — an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. She still needs the latter two to complete the set. John Abraham credits privacy for “scandal-free” marriage with Priya Runchal The honor was one of several “juried” Emmys announced Tuesday, awarded by committees rather than through the regular voting process. These technical categories, which often include elements of animation and production design, rarely go to household names. The awards will be officially presented at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony next month. Beyoncé is also up for best variety special as producer of “Beyoncé Bowl” and for best direction of a variety special. Her husband, Jay-Z, is competing in the same category as executive producer of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show.