United News of Bangladesh

China's box office revenue for the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday exceeded 400 million yuan (approximately 55.67 million U.S. dollars) as of 12:47 pm on Monday, representing a significant increase compared to the same period last year, according to box office tracker Maoyan. The summer blockbuster "Mission: Impossible -- The Final Reckoning," the eighth installment in the long-running Hollywood action franchise, leads the holiday box office chart. As of 12:47 p.m., the film had grossed about 165.31 million yuan during the holiday period. As this year's Dragon Boat Festival coincides with the International Children's Day, the holiday lineup features a variety of family-friendly animated films that have captivated audiences nationwide. The second to fourth spots of the holiday box office chart were dominated by animated films, including Japanese animated film "Doraemon the Movie: Nobita's Art World Tales," domestic animated adventure "Endless Journey of Love," and Disney's live-action adaptation of "Lilo & Stitch." The Dragon Boat Festival -- also known as the Duanwu Festival -- falls on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. This year, it was celebrated on May 31, and the holiday continues from May 31 to June 2.

Popular Indian-Bengali actor Parambrata Chattopadhyay and his wife Piya Chakraborty have welcomed a baby boy in Kolkata, India. Piya gave birth to their son on Sunday at a private hospital in the city. Both mother and child are reported to be in good health. The couple, who had previously shared the news of expecting their first child earlier this year, received an outpouring of love and congratulatory messages from fans and colleagues on social media following the announcement. Parambrata, who had taken paternity leave to be with his wife during this special time, had said he wanted to remain by her side as they embraced parenthood together. Tiger Shroff and Janhvi Kapoor to star in Raj Mehta and Karan Johar’s upcoming film Lag Jaa Gale The couple grew closer while volunteering in the Sundarbans region in the aftermath of Cyclone Yaas in 2021, though they had known each other prior to that. They tied the knot on November 27, 2023. Parambrata Chattopadhyay is well known to Bangladeshi audiences for his versatile performances in several acclaimed films, including Bhuban Majhi, Ajob Karkhana and Saturday Afternoon (Shonibar Bikel).

Dhanush and Aishwarya Rajinikanth, who finalized their divorce in November last year, recently came together to celebrate a milestone in their son Yatra’s life—his school graduation. The actor shared two photos from the occasion on Instagram. In the pictures, Yatra is seen dressed in a deep blue graduation gown and cap. Dhanush wore a white shirt with black trousers, while Aishwarya opted for an off-white outfit. Both parents were seen embracing their son and sharing proud moments together. Dhanush captioned the post, “Proud Parents #yathra,” accompanied by two heart emojis. The couple, who tied the knot in 2004, share two sons—Yatra and Linga. They publicly announced their separation in 2022, with Dhanush expressing on X (formerly Twitter): “18 years of togetherness as friends, couple, parents, and well-wishers. The journey was filled with growth, understanding, and adaptation. Today, we find ourselves on separate paths.” He further added, “We’ve chosen to part ways as a couple to better understand ourselves as individuals. We request your respect and privacy during this time.” Aishwarya posted the same statement on Instagram, captioning it: “No caption needed... only your understanding n your love necessary!” Their divorce was officially granted by the Chennai Family Welfare Court in November 2024. Career Updates: Dhanush will next appear in Kuberaa, set to release on June 20, alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Nagarjuna, and Jim Sarbh. He is also filming Tere Ishk Mein with Kriti Sanon and has a directorial project titled Idly Kadai in the works. Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rajinikanth recently directed Lal Salaam.   Source NDTV

In celebration of the revolutionary and awakening spirit of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam,  Nazrul Rock Concert titled 'Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam' enthralled music lovers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. Audiences attended the event defying heavy rainfall and inclement weather on Saturday evening. The concert organised by the Kabi Nazrul Institute marked the official release of a new music album by the Institute, featuring 10 of Nazrul's iconic songs reinterpreted by contemporary bands. Despite final preparations being completed by the afternoon, a sudden downpour cast uncertainty over the event. “We’re ready, the bands are ready - and we will begin as soon as the rain lets up,” Kabi Nazrul Institute Executive Director Latiful Islam Shibli told the media in the afternoon. Originally scheduled to start at 5 pm, the concert faced delays as the rain continued into the evening, prompting some audiences to leave. Eventually, as the rain subsided, preparations resumed, and the concert kicked off by its MC, actress Elina Shammi shortly with popular band Shironamhin performing the powerful Nazrul track “Kandari Hushiyar.” In a dynamic blend of music and poetry, each band's performance was followed by poetic recitations by noted elocutionist Titu Munshi, who brought Nazrul’s verses to life between musical sets. Rock band Black then performed “Porodeshi Megh” and “Jaago Naari Jaago,” followed by all female ethnic band F Minor's performance of “Joy Hok." Mizan and Brothers then enamored the crowd with the title track “Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam,” and Dalchhut delivered “Meghero Nomrud” and “Tora Shob Joywoddhwoni Kor.” Warfaze then energised the crowd with “Uchaton Mon Ghore Roy Na” and “Karar Oi Louho Kopat,” while Rebel performed “Rum Jhum Rum Jhum” and “Bajichhe Damama.” 90’s melodious band Different Touch then poured to Nazrul with “O Bhai Khati Shonar Cheyeo Khati,” “Eki Oporup,” and a medley of “Ei Shikol Pora Chhol,” “Durgomo Giri Kantar Moru,” and “Chol Chol Chol.” Nazrul Concert rescheduled to May 31

In celebration of the revolutionary and awakening spirit of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, Nazrul Rock Concert titled 'Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam' enthralled music lovers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. Audiences attended the event defying heavy rainfall and inclement weather on Saturday evening. The concert organised by the Kabi Nazrul Institute marked the official release of a new music album by the Institute, featuring 10 of Nazrul's iconic songs reinterpreted by contemporary bands. Despite final preparations being completed by the afternoon, a sudden downpour cast uncertainty over the event. “We’re ready, the bands are ready - and we will begin as soon as the rain lets up,” Kabi Nazrul Institute Executive Director Latiful Islam Shibli told the media in the afternoon. Originally scheduled to start at 5 pm, the concert faced delays as the rain continued into the evening, prompting some audiences to leave. Eventually, as the rain subsided, preparations resumed, and the concert kicked off by its MC, actress Elina Shammi shortly with popular band Shironamhin performing the powerful Nazrul track “Kandari Hushiyar.” In a dynamic blend of music and poetry, each band's performance was followed by poetic recitations by noted elocutionist Titu Munshi, who brought Nazrul’s verses to life between musical sets. Rock band Black then performed “Porodeshi Megh” and “Jaago Naari Jaago,” followed by all female ethnic band F Minor's performance of “Joy Hok." Mizan and Brothers then enamored the crowd with the title track “Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam,” and Dalchhut delivered “Meghero Nomrud” and “Tora Shob Joywoddhwoni Kor.” Warfaze then energised the crowd with “Uchaton Mon Ghore Roy Na” and “Karar Oi Louho Kopat,” while Rebel performed “Rum Jhum Rum Jhum” and “Bajichhe Damama.” 90’s melodious band Different Touch then poured to Nazrul with “O Bhai Khati Shonar Cheyeo Khati,” “Eki Oporup,” and a medley of “Ei Shikol Pora Chhol,” “Durgomo Giri Kantar Moru,” and “Chol Chol Chol.” However, after that, the scheduled performance of Nazrul’s iconic Islamic song "Tribhubon-er Priyo Muhammad" by Ark was cut short amid commotion from a section of the audience. Lead vocalist Hasan left the stage alongside his band, apologizing to fans. Kabi Nazrul Institute’s Director Shibli soon addressed the crowd, restoring order and officially unveiling the album poster alongside officials from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and members of the band Souls, who closed the event with a stirring rendition of “Ei Shikol Pora Chhol.” Earlier, Shibli remarked on the inspiration behind the concert: “Nazrul’s songs and poems inspired us during the uprising of 2024 and throughout our history. This concert is a tribute to that enduring spirit.” He added that the initiative aimed to connect the younger generation more closely with Nazrul’s literary and musical heritage. “The 2024 movement was led by youth, and rock music resonates strongly with them. This album, and the concert, are efforts to bring Nazrul’s inspirational songs closer to today’s youth," according to Shibli. The organizers confirmed that all tracks from the album will be released across the Institute’s website, YouTube channel, and other social media platforms.  

Renowned for his successful family entertainers like Jug Jugg Jeeyo and Good Newwz, director Raj Mehta is gearing up for his next project titled Lag Jaa Gale. The film will feature Tiger Shroff and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles and will be produced by Karan Johar. According to a report by Pinkvilla, the romantic drama marks a fresh pairing of Tiger and Janhvi, promising an exciting addition to Bollywood’s upcoming lineup. Karan Johar’s Latest Milestone Karan Johar recently returned from the Cannes 2025 Film Festival, where Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound—which he backed—received a remarkable 9-minute standing ovation in the Un Certain Regard section. Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri crowned Miss World 2025 Janhvi Kapoor’s Busy SlateJanhvi Kapoor, who also attended Cannes for Homebound alongside co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, is keeping busy. Just this Friday, the teaser for her film Param Sundari with Sidharth Malhotra was released, generating buzz for their on-screen chemistry. Tiger Shroff’s Latest WorkTiger was last seen in Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024) and is currently filming Baaghi 4. Coming SoonFilming for Lag Jaa Gale is scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2025, with a theatrical release planned for 2026. Source: With inputs from NDTV

Breaking from the action-packed formula of recent Eid films, the star-studded Utshob—set for release this Eid-ul-Azha—brings a refreshing blend of humour, family, and relationships, as revealed in its teaser unveiled on Saturday. Coming with a witty notice such as “Warning: watching this film without family is prohibited,” the film, inspired from English novelist Charles Dickens’ classic novella 'A Christmas Carol', introduces a stellar cast, first unveiled on May 13 at the Shooting Club in the capital’s Gulshan area. One of the teaser’s most distinctive elements is its clever use of self-deprecating humour, with actors poking fun at their own public personas in a lighthearted way. This approach adds a unique charm rarely seen in local Bangladeshi cinema. The teaser opens with Chanchal Chowdhury joking, “These days, you turn on the TV and it’s all Chanchal Chowdhury. This guy is everywhere.” In another tongue-in-cheek moment, Jaya Ahsan’s character asks, “Does she even have a voice? Can she deliver dialogues?”, while mimicking her own infamous dialogue "Maro-o-o-o-w" from one of her previous films. Meanwhile, Aupee Karim, making a return to film after a long break, is heard saying, “Have people forgotten my face just because I haven’t acted in a few years?” while travelling in a local bus. Veteran actor Zahid Hasan appears throughout these dialogues in the teaser alongside his co-stars. These lines, delivered with impeccable timing, are part of a cast that includes Zahid Hasan, Jaya Ahsan, Aupee Karim, Chanchal Chowdhury, Afsana Mimi, Tariq Anam Khan, Azad Abul Kalam, Intekhab Dinar, Sunerah Binte Kamal, Soumya Jyoti and Sadia Ayman. The presence of so many National Film Award-winning actors in a single production is rare in Bangladeshi cinema. Culminating in a nostalgic nod to Zahid Hasan's iconic line from the BTV classic 'Aj Robibar' in a humorous exchange, Chanchal’s character remarks, “Strange, why did he get so angry?” — a line, long associated with Hasan’s comedic legacy. Director Tanim Noor said the film has been created to capture the collective joy of Eid. “Eid is not just about personal celebration; it’s about sharing joy with others — and our film delivers that message,” he said, adding that 'Utshob' features several lines and moments designed to spark nostalgia, connecting audiences with memories of simpler times. While the cast lineup had been previously announced, the newly released teaser offers audiences a first look at the characters and scenes. Additional content, including songs from the film, will be released soon. Presented by BRAC Bank, Utshob is produced by Dope Productions, co-produced by Chorki, and supported by associate production house Laughing Elephant. The film is also slated for international release, with global distribution handled by Swapno Scarecrow and Path Productions. The story of Utshob is written by Tanim Noor, Ayman Asib Shadhin, Sushmoy Sarkar, and Samiul Bhuiyan. The screenplay and dialogues are by Ayman Asib Shadhin and Samiul Bhuiyan, with cinematography by prominent cinematographer Rashed Zaman.

Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand was crowned Miss World on Saturday in India, where the international pageant was held this year. Chuangsri topped a field of 108 contestants in the contest held in India’s southern Hyderabad city. Hasset Dereje Admassu of Ethiopia was the first runner-up in the competition. Chuangsri received her crown from last year’s winner Krystyna Pyszková. The 72nd Miss World beauty pageant was hosted by Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle and Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar. India hosted the beauty competition last year as well. India’s Nandini Gupta exited after making it to the final 20. Six Indian women have won the title, including Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000) and Manushi Chillar (2017).

Alf Clausen, the Emmy-winning composer whose music provided essential accompaniment for the animated antics of “The Simpsons” for 27 years, has died. His daughter Kaarin Clausen said that Alf Clausen died Thursday at his home in Los Angeles after struggling with Parkinson's disease for about a decade. He was 84, according to an AP report. Clausen, who also scored TV series including “Moonlighting” and “Alf” ("no relation," he used to joke) was nominated for 30 Emmy Awards, 21 of them for “The Simpsons,” winning twice. Al Jean, an early “Simpsons” writer who was one of the key creative figures on the show in the 1990s, said in a post on X Friday that “Clausen was an incredibly talented man who did so much for The Simpsons." While Danny Elfman wrote the show's theme song, Clausen joined the Fox animated series created by Matt Groening in 1990 and provided essentially all of its music until 2017, composing nearly 600 scores and conducting the 35-piece orchestra that played it in the studio. His colleagues said his music was a key component of the show's comedy, but Clausen believed the best way to back up the gags of Homer, Marge Bart and Lisa was by making the music as straight as possible. “This is a dream job for a composer,” Clausen told Variety, which first reported his death, in 1998. “Matt Groening said to me very early on, ‘We’re not a cartoon. We’re a drama where the characters are drawn. I want you to score it like a drama.’ I score the emotions of the characters as opposed to specific action hits on the screen.” Kishore Kumar declined national award over bribe demand, says son Amit Kumar Groening, in a 1996 interview, called him “one of the unacknowledged treasures of the show.” Clausen was born in Minneapolis and raised in Jamestown, North Dakota. He graduated from the Berklee College of Music in 1966, and moved to Los Angeles seeking a career in music. In the 1970s he was a musical director on several TV variety shows including “Donny & Marie.” Clausen worked as an orchestrator for composer Lee Holdridge in his scores for 1980s films including “Splash” and “The Beastmaster.” It was Holdridge who first got the composing job on “Moonlighting," the late-80s ABC rom-com detective series starring Bruce Willis and Cybil Shepherd, but he handed the gig off to Clausen, who would get six Emmy nominations for his music on it. Clausen won his Emmys for “The Simpsons” in 1997 and 1998 and also won five Annie Awards, which honor work in animation in film and television. He was fired from “The Simpsons” in a cost-cutting move in 2017, to the outrage of his collaborators and fans. He sued over his dismissal. Clausen is survived by his wife Sally, children Kaarin, Scott and Kyle, stepchildren Josh and Emily, and 11 grandchildren.

Tusshar Kapoor has confirmed that his father, veteran actor Jeetendra, has no interest in returning to acting, saying the screen legend is completely done with his film career. Jeetendra, a leading star of the 1960s and 70s, delivered a string of memorable hits including Geet Gaya Patharon Ne, Gunahon Ka Devta, Farz, Humjoli, Caravan, Dharam Veer, Parichay, and Nagin. He remained prominent through the 1980s with blockbusters like Himmatwala, Tohfa, and Mawaali, but gradually stepped back from acting in the mid-1990s. Since then, he has only appeared occasionally in cameo roles. Speaking to PTI, Tusshar said, “He follows what’s happening in today’s cinema but doesn’t feel the urge to return to the sets. He’s mentioned that he’s acted in nearly 200 films, starting at the age of 20. That chapter is closed for him. He was never particularly drawn to playing supporting or character roles.” Tusshar added that the decision to step away was influenced by the nature of roles being offered to senior actors at the time. “Back then, older actors were often cast in very typecast roles. Unlike today, where there’s more variety and depth in roles, it wasn’t the case when he decided to slow down. He transitioned more into business after that.” Tusshar also expressed his wish to see his father's illustrious career chronicled in a docudrama, suggesting that icons like Jeetendra and Dharmendra deserve tribute projects. “These legends, like Dad and Dharam ji, never promoted themselves aggressively. A docudrama series—something like Elvis—would be a fitting way to honor their contribution to Indian cinema. Their work was rich and impactful, and there’s so much to learn from it.” Tusshar Kapoor currently stars in the horror-comedy Kapkapiii, which released in theatres on May 23. Source: NDTV