United News of Bangladesh

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

A major mishap occurred on the set of “The India House”, the upcoming production venture of “RRR” star Ram Charan, earlier this week when a large water tank burst during filming near Shamshabad on the outskirts of Hyderabad. According to Variety, the incident happened while the crew was shooting an elaborate ocean sequence on a specially built set. The water tank, constructed to simulate tidal waves, gave way unexpectedly, releasing a powerful rush of water across the location. Viral footage circulating on social media shows crew members struggling to navigate the sudden flooding while attempting to protect filming equipment. Production staff were seen evacuating the site and working swiftly to manage the situation. Lead actor Nikhil Siddhartha addressed the incident on X, writing, “We r all Safe. Sometimes in our Quest to give the Best cinematic Experience we take Risks. Today we survived a Huge mishap thanks to the Alert Crew and Precautions taken. We lost Expensive Equipment but by gods grace there was no human damage. #IndiaHouse.” How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars Producer Abhishek Agarwal also confirmed the incident, posting, “A mishap occurred on the sets of #TheIndiaHouse while shooting today. Everyone on the set is safe and sound. Thank you for all your concern. #JaiMataDi.” “The India House”, directed by Ram Vamsi Krishna, is a period drama starring Nikhil Siddhartha, Saiee Manjrekar, and veteran actor Anupam Kher. It is being produced by Abhishek Agarwal Arts and V Mega Pictures.

Shah Rukh Khan’s 2004 film Swades, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, earned critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and powerful performances. But did you know the film may have drawn inspiration from a 1990s television series titled Yule Love Stories? The anthology series, which aired daily episodes, featured a segment called Vapasi. Interestingly, Ashutosh Gowariker himself starred in this episode, playing the character Mohan—coincidentally, the same name as Shah Rukh Khan's role in Swades. Much like the film, Vapasi focused on an NRI named Mohan who returns to India for his beloved Kaveri Amma and ends up falling in love with a woman named Geeta. The striking similarities between the two have resurfaced online after a clip from the TV episode was shared on platform X (formerly Twitter). The post read: “Hardly anyone knows SRK lowkey lifted Swades from a ’90s Zee TV episode. Bro really made a movie outta a TV serial and y’all out here calling it a masterpiece.” The resurfaced video clip gained attention shortly after actor Aamir Khan revealed in an interview that he had initially turned down Swades, finding the story unengaging. Speaking to Zoom, Aamir said, “I found it very boring! I told this to Ashu when he narrated it to me. Aamir Khan reflects on divorce, marriage, choosing honesty over appearance In fact, he shared the story with me while we were working on Lagaan. Back then, it was titled Kaveri Amma.” He added, “It was a three-hour-long narration. When he asked for my thoughts, I said I wanted to be honest—‘I got bored.’ I felt it was important to share my initial reaction.” Meanwhile, Aamir Khan is set to appear next in Sitare Zameer Par, which also marks the return of Genelia D’Souza to Bollywood. Source: With inputs from NDTV 

Several photos circulating on social media since Thursday afternoon  showing popular stage, television, and film actor Somu Chowdhury lying under a tree in an apparent state of mental disorientation has spared concern among fans and citizens. The images and captions shared by several netizens claimed that the veteran actor was seen lying beneath the historic Gab tree at the Shah Miskin shrine in Gafargaon, Mymensingh. “It seems he has lost his mental stability, please help this talented individual from our film industry so that he can return to his loved ones in good health,” one Facebook user named SM Sumon shared. Aamir Khan reflects on divorce, marriage, choosing honesty over appearance Responding to the situation, popular actor and member of Actors Equity Bangladesh, Rashed Mamun Apu, confirmed in a Facebook post that Somu Chowdhury is now under the care of the organisation. “As soon as we received the news, Actors Equity Bangladesh took immediate steps to locate him. He has been moved to a nearby safe place,” Apu wrote. “Based on his physical and mental condition, we are preparing to bring him to Dhaka as soon as possible. His family has also been contacted.” He added that the entire process is being coordinated under the special supervision of Actors Equity Bangladesh and requested everyone to keep the actor in their prayers. Somu has earned acclaim over the decades for his contributions to Bangladeshi theatre, television, and cinema.    

After a string of underwhelming films and nearly four years in a slump, Akshay Kumar is finally back in form — thanks to the roaring success of Housefull 5. The comedy franchise’s latest installment has crossed the ₹100 crore milestone at the domestic box office since its release on June 6, offering a much-needed boost not only for the actor but also for the struggling Hindi film industry. Kumar, who had earlier admitted to facing a period of “16 consecutive flops,” stayed committed to working hard despite the setbacks. At the trailer launch of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, he had remarked, “I stood there and kept on doing work. I'll still do that.” That perseverance seems to have paid off. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, Housefull 5 — made on an estimated ₹300 crore budget — has drawn audiences with its star-studded cast and dual endings (Housefull 5A and 5B). It features actors such as Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, and Sanjay Dutt, among others. Promotional strategies played a key role in the film's reach. Media professionals were given BookMyShow coupons to attend the release day screening, while multiplexes like PVR INOX offered discounted tickets to lure audiences. In addition, fans could access the second version of the film at half price if they had already seen one. Aamir Khan recalls his height insecurity early in career This marks Akshay Kumar’s third release of the year, following Kesari Chapter 2 and Sky Force — both of which fell short of turning a profit despite strong opening numbers. While Sky Force almost broke even with ₹149 crore earnings on a ₹150 crore budget, Kesari Chapter 2 collected around ₹120 crore. Housefull 5 comes as a ray of hope for Kumar, whose recent outings like Samrat Prithviraj, Ram Setu, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan failed to impress at the box office. His appearances in films like OMG 2, Stree 2, and Singham Again were limited to cameos, while titles such as Atrangi Re and Cuttputlli were released directly on OTT platforms. Speaking at the Sky Force trailer launch, Kumar reflected on his journey, acknowledging the tough phase but reaffirming his commitment to hard work. “People suggest I do one or two films a year, but if I can work, why not? That’s what my career has been built on,” he said. If the current momentum holds, Housefull 5 may well mark a turning point for the actor — and reestablish his box office dominance. Source: With inputs fron NDTV