United News of Bangladesh

Popular Bangladeshi singer, composer and music artist Pritom Hasan has embarked on an extensive North American tour, performing in 25 consecutive concerts across the United States and Canada over the next three months — marking the longest international concert series of his career. The tour officially began on May 31 in Dallas, Texas. His second performance is scheduled for June 15 at the LaGuardia College Performing Arts Center in New York. Titled ‘Pritom Hasan Live in New York Powered by River’, the show is being jointly organised by Deshi Music and Entertainment, Priyojon Films, and Toaster Production. The final concert of the tour will be held in Buffalo on August 31, wrapping up a three-month musical journey. During this period, Pritom is set to perform in major cities including New Jersey, Los Angeles, Austin, Houston, Miami, Boston, Washington DC, Michigan, Atlanta, Seattle, San Jose, Portland, Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, among others—focusing especially on cities with large Bangladeshi communities. Adding to the excitement, his elder brother and fellow singer Protic Hasan will also join him on stage for select shows throughout the tour. While Pritom is making waves abroad, back home his songs continue to dominate digital platforms and social circles. His latest track ‘Lichur Bagane’ from this Eid's most-anticipated film 'Taandob' is currently the most trending film song in the nation. His other fan-favourite tracks are ‘Laage Ura Dhura’, ‘Chand Mama’, ‘Dewra’, ‘Ma Lo Ma’, ‘Local Bus’, ‘Beainshab', 'Shoroter Shesh Theke' and more. The singer expressed hope that this tour will not only entertain Bangladeshi expatriates but also serve as a memorable milestone in his musical journey.

Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, known for his active presence on social media, continues to connect with fans by sharing thoughts on life, cinema, and more. Affectionately referring to his followers as his “extended family” (EF), the actor frequently posts reflections on X (formerly Twitter) and his personal blog. On Monday, he tweeted:“T 5405 - Gadgets break .. Longevity lasts!!!” While many appreciated the message, one user took a dig at the 82-year-old’s age, commenting:"Samay se so jaaya karo, varna lambi umar bhi nahi tikegi."(“Try to sleep on time, or even a long life won't last.”) Responding with his trademark dignity and sharp wit, Bachchan replied:“Mere maran ki baat karne ke liye dhanyawad; Ishwar ki kripa.”(“Thank you for speaking of my death; God bless you!”) BTS aims for 2025 reunion as RM and V complete military service In another interaction referencing his iconic 1988 film Shahenshah, a fan joked:“Andheri raaton mein Shahenshah kyu jaag rahe ho... So jayiye ab, umar ho gayi aapko.”(“Why is Shahenshah awake in the dark of night? You should sleep, you're old now.”) Bachchan responded, “Ek din tumhari bhi umr ho jayegi.. Ishwar ne chaha.”(“One day, you too will grow old… God willing.”)However, this tweet was later deleted, according to Times of India. Just last month, the legendary actor expressed frustration over constant nitpicking of his online presence. In a blog post, he wrote: “They tell me to change my signature, to not use dots, not draw curves... to wear this, not wear that... not go here or there... to not speak — and when I do, they ask why I did... When I don’t, they ask why I didn’t.”He concluded with a philosophical note, crediting his father, the late poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, for teaching him to live with quiet strength, like the sea: Inside Aamir Khan’s musical bash with girlfriend Gauri, ex-wife Kiran Rao “I have learnt how to live life, from the seas and oceans; to flow quietly and to exist in your own ardor…”On the professional front, Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in Vettaiyan alongside Rajinikanth. He will next appear in the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, featuring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Kamal Haasan.

A judge on Monday dismissed the lawsuit that actor and director Justin Baldoni filed against his “It Ends With Us” costar Blake Lively after she sued him last year for sexual harassment and retaliation. US District Court Judge Lewis Liman's decision is the latest development in the bitter legal battle surrounding the dark romantic film, reports AP. Baldoni and production company Wayfarer Studios countersued in January for $400 million, accusing Lively and her husband, “Deadpool” actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion. The New York judge ruled that Baldoni can’t sue Lively for defamation over claims she made in her legal claim, because allegations made in a lawsuit are exempt from libel claims. Liman also ruled that Baldoni's claims that Lively stole creative control of the film didn't count as extortion under California law. The judge, however, said Baldoni could revise the lawsuit if he wanted to pursue different claims related to whether Lively breached or interfered with a contract. His legal team indicated it planned to do so. “Ms Lively and her team’s predictable declaration of victory is false,” one of Baldoni's lawyers, Bryan Freedman, said in a statement. Doechii uses BET Awards win to speak out on immigration raids He said that Lively's claims that she was sexually harassed on the film set, and then subjected to a secret smear campaign intended to taint her reputation, were “no truer today than they were yesterday.” “It Ends With Us,” an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2016 novel that begins as a romance but takes a dark turn into domestic violence, was released in August, exceeding box office expectations with a $50 million debut. But the movie’s release was shrouded by speculation over discord between Lively and Baldoni. The judge also dismissed Baldoni's defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, which had reported on Lively's sexual harassment allegations. “Today’s opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, (publicist) Leslie Sloane and The New York Times," Lively's attorneys, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, said in a prepared statement. The lawyers said they “look forward to the next round” of seeking attorneys’ fees, treble damages and punitive damages.

BTS members RM and V have officially completed their mandatory military service in South Korea, becoming the latest members of the group to be discharged. The two idols saluted fans as they were released Tuesday in Chuncheon City, greeted by about 200 supporters — some of whom traveled from countries like Mexico, Turkey, and Brazil. Reina Lorena Quintero Sevilla, who flew nearly 18 hours from Mexico City, shared her excitement: “It didn’t feel that long because we were just thrilled to be here, to witness the boys’ discharge, and to be in the homeland of the idols we love.” RM and V enlisted in December 2023, joining other members who had already begun their service. Jin, the eldest member, completed his duty in June 2024, while J-Hope finished in October. Jimin and JungKook are expected to be discharged on Wednesday. Suga is fulfilling his conscription through an alternative service as a social service agent and is expected to finish later this month. The group is expected to reunite sometime in 2025, once all members have completed their service. South Korea mandates military service of 18–21 months for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, as a measure against threats from North Korea. While exemptions exist for athletes and artists who win major awards and bring national recognition, K-pop stars do not qualify. However, a revision to the Military Service Act allowed K-pop idols to delay enlistment until the age of 30. Though there was significant public debate over whether BTS should receive special treatment, their agency announced in 2022 that all members would serve.    

Grammy winner Doechii turned her BET Awards moment into a powerful call for justice, using the stage to highlight the immigration raids and protest crackdowns happening just miles from where the ceremony is taking place in Los Angeles. After being named best female hip-hop artist — her first-ever BET Award — Doechii acknowledged her fellow nominees, then shifted the spotlight to the issues unfolding outside the venue. “There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order,” said Doechii, who won a Grammy for best rap album, only the third woman to win in that category. “Trump is using military forces to stop a protest," she said. "I want you all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when every time we exercise our democratic right to protest, the military is deployed against us. What type of government is that?” Doechii's words drew applause from the audience at the Peacock Theater, where the awards airing live. “People are being swept up and torn from their families,” she continued. “I feel like it’s my responsibility as an artist to use this moment to speak up for all oppressed people. … We all deserve to live in hope and not fear. I hope we stand together.” The show's host pokes fun at honorees Kevin Hart kicked off the awards with a flurry of jokes, poking fun at everything from celebrity names to slippery afterparties. “There won’t be any afterparties tonight. Things could get slippery,” he quipped, referencing baby oil that's been frequently mentioned in the criminal case against Diddy. Hart set the tone for a night full of humor and on a night honoring the awards show's 25th anniversary. The comedian also joked about the pronunciation of GloRilla and Snoop Dogg ’s real names, drawing laughs from the crowd before turning sincere. Thug Life Box Office Collection Day 4: Kamal Haasan's Film Witnesses A Dip Hart paid tribute to Jamie Foxx and teased gospel star Kirk Franklin, who — along with Snoop and Mariah Carey — was honored with the Ultimate Icon Award for his contributions to entertainment, community work, and advocacy. “When you get your award tonight, don’t come up here front twerking,” Hart said, as the crowd erupted in laughter. The jab was a nod to Franklin’s viral moment when he playfully twerked on gospel legend Jacky Clark Chisholm during a live performance. “Don’t come up here poppin’,” Hart added, as cameras caught Franklin bowing his head and chuckling. “Don’t try to blame it on the Lord. The Lord didn’t ask for that. Put it away, Kirk.” Singer Amerie and rapper Jim Jones were the first performers of the show. The BET Awards is bringing major star power with Kendrick Lamar who leads the pack with 10 nominations, including album of the year for his critically acclaimed project “GNX.” His ubiquitous diss track “Not Like Us,” emanating from the Drake feud, received nominations for video of the year and viewer’s choice award. Lamar made waves with his Grammy triumph, winning song and record of the year for “Not Like Us.” He followed up with a groundbreaking halftime show, becoming the first solo hip-hop performer to headline the coveted slot. The rap megastar is currently on the Grand National Tour with SZA. Who else is nominated? Doechii, Drake, Future and GloRilla tied for the second-most nominations with six. Metro Boomin pulled in five nods, while SZA and The Weeknd each scored four. Who are the show’s performers? Rap icon Lil Wayne, rapper GloRilla and singer Teyana Taylor will hit the BET Awards stage. The lineup of performers also includes rapper Playboi Carti and singer Leon Thomas. Will there be any tributes? The BET Awards will offer tributes to former popular hosts and performances, including the network’s once-flagship program “106 & Park. ” "’106 & Park’ was more than just a music countdown show; it was the heartbeat of Black youth culture and one of the highest-rated BET programs for over a decade,” said Scott Mills, BET’s president and CEO. The weekday show launched in 2000 and lasted for more than a decade. The show thrived with a video countdown, interviews and performances. The show will reunite past hosts A.J. Calloway, Free, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz and Terrence J. The tribute will feature performers such as Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I. and Mr. 106 & Park. Craig Brewer to direct Snoop Dogg biopic for Universal It is not yet known whether Carey, Snoop, Foxx and Franklin will receive individual tributes during the ceremony. Are there any other standout nominees? There’s a competitive list of top-notch actors looking to take home the top award in their category. For best actor, the category includes: Aaron Pierre, Aldis Hodge, Anthony Mackie, Colman Domingo, Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Joey Bada$$, Kevin Hart, Sterling K. Brown and Will Smith. For best actress, the nominees include: Andra Day, Angela Bassett, Coco Jones, Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kerry Washington, Quinta Brunson, Viola Davis and Zendaya. Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Simone Biles, Angel Reese and Jalen Hurts are among the sports stars competing for awards.

Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan recently took his fans by surprise by expressing his support for fellow actor Arifin Shuvoo’s new Eid release 'Neelchakra'. In a recent Facebook post, Shakib shared the official poster of Neelchakra and wished the film's team success.  “Best wishes to the team of 'Neelchakra',” he wrote, prompting a wave of appreciation from fans and fellow artistes on social media. The unexpected gesture was warmly received by 'Neelchakra's lead actor Arifin Shuvoo, who expressed his gratitude in the comments. The film's lead actress Mandira Chakraborty and director Mithu Khan also responded, thanking Shakib for his support. ‘Taandob’ is Raihan Rafi’s best film yet: Shakib Khan 'Neelchakra' revolves around a gripping investigation into a criminal syndicate responsible for leaking 16 videos online over two years — a chain of events that led to five suicides. The story unfolds through the lens of a determined investigator, played by Arifin Shuvoo. Apart from 'Neelchakra', several films hit cinemas across the country this Eid, including Shakib Khan’s own 'Taandob', along with Tanim Noor's multi-starrer film 'Utshob', Shariful Razz-Mosharraf Karim's action-packed film 'Insaaf, Ador Azad and Puja Cherry's 'Togor' and Azmeri Haque Badhan starrer thriller 'Esha Murder: Kormofol'.

Confusion arose on Sunday regarding the reported death of popular film actress Tanin Subha, after a miscommunication led to widespread but premature announcements of her passing. According to hospital sources and colleagues present at the scene, Tanin has been declared brain dead by doctors, but her heart is still beating. She remains on life support on Sunday. The confusion began when her younger brother misunderstood the doctor’s statement. When the doctor informed him that Tanin was "brain dead," he mistakenly believed it meant she had died.  This misinterpretation quickly circulated as news of her death; and upon hearing the news, many of her colleagues and well-wishers rushed to the hospital, only to learn that while her brain had ceased functioning, her heartbeat continued. Actress Rumana Islam Mukti, who was at the hospital along with actor Joy Chowdhury, wrote on Facebook, “Joy and I are at the hospital. The doctors have not made any official declaration. Tanin Subha’s brain is not functioning, but her heart is still beating.” The decision to remove life support might be made in consultation with the family, according to the doctors. Although an official statement was expected between the evening, the family and close friends decided to keep her on life support as long as her heart continued to beat.  However, recovery from such a condition is extremely rare and would require a miracle, according to her doctors. Tanin was admitted to a private hospital in Dhanmondi on June 2 after her condition deteriorated. She had initially fallen ill that evening and was first taken to a clinic in Aftabnagar. Following a brief recovery, her condition worsened again, prompting further hospitalization. With a career spanning over two decades, Tanin Subha worked across TV dramas, telefilms, and films. She also ran her own beauty care center alongside her work in the entertainment industry. She entered the media industry through the audition round of “CloseUp 1” on January 1, 2012. Although she began her career as a singer, she later focused on acting. Tanin's first on-screen appearance was in a TV commercial, followed by her small-screen debut opposite Mosharraf Karim in the drama “Jamaj.” She made her silver screen debut with the film Abastab Bhalobasha, although it was never released. Her major breakthrough came with Matir Pori, establishing her position in the film industry. Throughout her career, Tanin Subha acted in several films including Bhalo Theko, Tui Amar, Demag, Begumjan, Bir Bangali, and Raja Ranir Golpo. Some of her upcoming unreleased films include Bir Mata, Dui Rajkonna, and Premer Bandhon.

Iranian rapper Amir Hossein Maghsoudloo, better known as Tataloo, now awaits execution, his tattooed face a stark contrast to the gray prison uniform he wears. Once a supporter of a hard-line presidential candidate, his case reflects the shifting and turbulent political climate in Iran over the past decade. Tataloo has been sentenced to death for allegedly “insulting Islamic sanctities.” Once embraced by Iran's youth for his rebellious music, he now faces the regime’s harshest punishment. His songs resonated with many young Iranians who felt alienated in a country with fragmented opposition and limited freedoms. Following the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini and the resulting protests, Tataloo's music grew more politically charged, and he appeared in videos directly criticizing the regime. “By showing your face in a music video, you're challenging authority,” said former BBC journalist Ali Hamedani, who interviewed him in 2005. “It was a bold move.” Iran’s Supreme Court upheld his death sentence last month. “This verdict is final and prepared for enforcement,” judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir announced. Activists have condemned the ruling, particularly after reports that Tataloo attempted suicide in prison. From Underground Music to State Endorsements Tataloo began his career in 2003, blending Western musical styles with Persian lyrics. His 2011 debut album drew mixed reactions. Since concerts in Iran are regulated by the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, he never performed officially in his home country. In 2015, he released a video supporting Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and its nuclear ambitions, likely in an attempt to curry favor with authorities. The video, titled “Energy Hasteei” (“Nuclear Energy”), featured him singing aboard the Iranian warship Damavand, which later sank in 2018. He even publicly endorsed conservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi during the 2017 presidential election. Raisi later won the presidency in 2021 but died in a helicopter crash in 2024. Exile, Controversy, and Return to Iran In 2018, after facing legal issues in Iran, Tataloo moved to Turkey, where he maintained a strong online presence and performed for Persian-speaking audiences. Known for his extensive tattoos — including an Iranian flag and a tribute to his mother — he drew a large following, referred to as “Tatalities.” However, Instagram removed his account in 2020 after he made controversial comments about underage girls. He also admitted to drug use. “Tataloo, though divisive, has a large fanbase in Iran,” said analyst Holly Dagres. “They have often rallied behind him during his past arrests.” His lyrics increasingly criticized the regime, especially after Amini’s death. In one song, “Enghelab Solh” (“Peace Revolution”), he directly addressed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: “We don’t want tear gas, because everyone’s eyes are already filled with tears.” Tataloo’s situation worsened in late 2023, when he was deported from Turkey for having an expired passport and arrested upon re-entry to Iran. Public Outcry Over Death Sentence Initially sentenced to five years for blasphemy, Tataloo's conviction was later overturned, only to be replaced by a death sentence in January. He already faced an additional ten-year term on other charges, including promoting prostitution and moral corruption. “Tataloo is in grave danger of execution,” said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam of Iran Human Rights. “Global voices — including artists and the public — must intervene.” At his trial, Tataloo expressed regret. “I’ve made many mistakes,” he said, according to Iranian state media. “I apologize for my actions.” While on death row, he reportedly got married, and recently survived a suicide attempt. Analysts believe his sentence comes at a sensitive time for Iran. The nation remains politically isolated and is attempting to revive nuclear talks with the U.S. “The government doesn’t need to provoke Tataloo’s fans right now,” said Iran expert Abbas Milani.

Aamir Khan recently hosted an intimate musical evening at his home, celebrating the upcoming release of his film Sitaare Zameen Par. The event drew several well-known faces from the entertainment and sports worlds. Highlights from the Evening: Comedian and actor Kapil Sharma shared a viral video from the gathering, where he performed classical raagas alongside renowned composer Shankar Mahadevan. Aamir Khan also joined the duo during the jam session. Kapil, who received praise from both Shankar and Aamir, captioned the post: “A special evening with the special sitaare of Sitaare Zameen Par. Thank you Aamir bhai for the most beautiful evening & wish you the best for #SitaareZameenPar releasing on 20th June (sic).”Aamir’s partner, Gauri Spratt, was seen seated next to him during the event. His former wife, filmmaker Kiran Rao, was also present. A widely shared clip from the night showed a clean-shaven Ranbir Kapoor posing for a group photo with the film’s cast. Aamir joined in at the request of the guests. The evening brought together notable personalities such as director RS Prasanna and music trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. After 'Spirit', Deepika Padukone may be dropped from 'Kalki 2' over reported on-set tensions Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and his wife Anjali made a surprise appearance. Aamir warmly welcomed them as guests applauded and chanted Sachin’s name.About the Film: Sitaare Zameen Par is a Hindi adaptation of the Spanish movie Champions. It stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh alongside ten newcomers. Directed by RS Prasanna and co-produced by Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit, the film is set to hit theaters on June 20. Aamir’s Personal Update: In March 2025, during his 60th birthday celebration, Aamir publicly introduced Gauri Spratt as his partner. He revealed they had been in a relationship for 18 months and had already introduced each other to their families. Summary: Ahead of Sitaare Zameen Par’s release on June 20, Aamir Khan hosted a star-studded musical evening featuring performances by Kapil Sharma and Shankar Mahadevan. The gathering included Gauri Spratt, Kiran Rao, Ranbir Kapoor, and Sachin Tendulkar, among others, making it a memorable celebration. Source: With inputs from NDTV 

Universal Pictures has tapped “Hustle & Flow” filmmaker Craig Brewer to direct its upcoming biopic on rap icon Snoop Dogg. The currently untitled film will chronicle the hip-hop legend’s rise to fame and is the first project under Death Row Pictures’ deal with NBCUniversal Entertainment & Studios. Brewer, also known for “Dolemite Is My Name”, is revising the existing script written by “Black Panther” co-writer Joe Robert Cole. Casting details and a release date have yet to be announced. According to Variety, the film is being produced by Snoop Dogg himself, alongside Brian Grazer and Death Row Pictures president Sara Ramaker. Universal’s senior vice-president of production development, Ryan Jones, is overseeing the project for the studio. This marks a continuation of Snoop Dogg’s collaboration with NBCUniversal. The rapper is set to return as a coach for season 28 of NBC’s “The Voice” this autumn and also participated in NBC and Peacock’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. 'Flow’ crosses $50 million globally, becomes top indie animated Oscar hit Snoop Dogg, a 17-time Grammy nominee, first burst onto the scene in 1993 with his debut album “Doggystyle”, released under Death Row Records. The album, produced solely by Dr Dre, featured hit singles such as “What’s My Name?” and “Gin and Juice”. Universal has a track record of successful music biopics, including 2015’s “Straight Outta Compton”, which grossed over $200 million worldwide and featured LaKeith Stanfield as Snoop. The studio also released the Oscar-winning “8 Mile” in 2002, starring Eminem in a role that mirrored his own life. Music biopics continue to perform strongly at the box office, with recent hits like “Bob Marley: One Love” and the Dylan-centred “A Complete Unknown”, which earned eight Oscar nominations. Upcoming projects include a Bruce Springsteen biopic and a four-film Beatles project set for release in 2028.