United News of Bangladesh

The inaugural World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) will be held from May 1 to 4 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India, with the goal of fostering stronger global connections in the entertainment industry. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka hosted a press briefing at the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre in Gulshan to provide more details about the event on Wednesday. Speaking at the briefing, Ann Mary George, First Secretary (Culture) at the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh, said that the maiden edition of WAVES aims to bring together the leaders of the Media and Entertainment (M&E) industry from across the globe, including TV & radio, news media, music, advertising, animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, social media, online creators, artificial intelligence, film, OTT platforms, and exhibitors. The Summit includes Global Media Dialogue of Ministers & Policymakers, Roundtable of M&E CEOs, WAVES Awards recognising the best of the M&E industry, 22 international challenges, masterclasses and workshops, classical and fusion cultural performances, showcasing media startups, plenary and conference sessions, Bharat pavilion and exhibition, and an e-marketplace for M&E industry, called WAVES Bazaar. As part of the maiden edition, a dedicated Bharat Pavilion & Exhibition will showcase India's media landscape, while the WAVES Bazaar will serve as a revolutionary e-marketplace for the global M&E industry, according to Ann Mary George. The summit will also include a Prime Minister-Level Roundtable, a closed-door session for policymakers and government representatives from various countries, further underlining its significance as a global event.

Selena Gomez and her fiancé, Benny Blanco, have decided to delay their wedding plans in order to concentrate on their upcoming album, I Said I Love You First, which is set for release on March 21. In a recent interview with E! News, Blanco shared that while Gomez is constantly coming up with new wedding ideas, they have chosen to prioritise their music collaboration for now. “I think every day she’s planned a new wedding in her head,” Blanco joked. Instead of rushing into wedding preparations, the couple is embracing this time to create together. For Gomez, working on the album has been an incredibly special experience. “I genuinely feel like this is such a special time that we get to apply it to this album and really just pour our heart into it,” she explained. “It’s a chance to completely translate what we feel and share it with the world.” Meghan Markle faces backlash over allegedly faking homemade waffles Blanco, 37, added that the couple is still savouring the joy of their engagement, which was announced in December after Blanco’s romantic proposal during a Taco Bell picnic. “We’re very much ‘take it one day at a time’ type of people. We’re still not over this moment,” he said. The couple has been recording the album in their in-home studio, which Gomez described as “the most intimate” recording experience she’s ever had. I Said I Love You First combines their personal stories, with Gomez noting, “This whole project embodies his stories combined with mine. They have meanings that are really just personal to both of us.” Top 10 Netflix English Originals to Watch in April 2025: Movies, Series, and Shows

Aamir Khan and his girlfriend Gauri Spratt made their first public appearance on Tuesday after confirming their relationship. On the eve of his 60th birthday, the Lagaan star introduced Bengaluru-based Gauri to the media. The couple was spotted outside the Excel office in Mumbai, where Aamir greeted the paparazzi while waiting for Gauri to step out. As she emerged, he escorted her to the car, while Gauri appeared to avoid the cameras and quickly got in. Aamir Khan introduces partner Gauri Spratt, opens up about marriage plans At a media interaction on March 13, Gauri shared what she sought in a partner and why she chose Aamir: "I wanted someone who was kind, a gentleman, and just caring," she said. Aamir playfully replied, "And after all that, you found me?" The two have known each other for 25 years, though they lost touch for a long period. They reconnected two years ago and developed a relationship. "I was looking for someone I can be calm with, who gives me peace. And there she was," Aamir revealed. Acknowledging the intense media attention, Aamir said, "I have tried to tell her how it will be, the media madness, and prepare her somewhat for it. She isn't used to it. But we are hoping that you guys will be kind." Aamir Khan reflects on rejecting iconic roles played by Shah Rukh and Salman Gauri, who has little connection with the film industry, has not watched most of Aamir's movies. "She grew up in Bangalore, and her exposure was to different kinds of films and arts. So she doesn't watch Hindi films. She has probably not seen much of my work, too," Aamir explained. According to her LinkedIn profile, Gauri currently manages a BBlunt salon in Mumbai and is a mother to a six-year-old child. Source: NDTV  April 2025 Hindi Films Lineup: Top 10 Most Hyped Bollywood Releases

Meghan Markle is once again at the center of controversy, this time over something as unexpected as homemade waffles. Following the backlash surrounding her latest Netflix show, the Duchess of Sussex is now facing fresh criticism after social media users accused her of misleadingly presenting store-bought waffles as homemade. On March 17, Meghan shared Instagram Stories of herself pouring green-colored batter into a waffle iron. The finished waffles, decorated with whipped cream and kiwi slices, were described in her captions as a festive treat for Prince Harry and their two children—5-year-old Prince Archie and 3-year-old Princess Lilibet. However, observant social media users quickly noticed inconsistencies. They pointed out that the waffle iron in her video was divided into four quarters, yet the waffles she showcased had no such markings. This sparked speculation that she had not actually made them and had instead passed off store-bought waffles as her own. Atif Aslam’s new naat elevates spirituality during Ramadan The criticism was swift and unforgiving. Many accused Meghan of fabricating yet another aspect of her life, with some branding her a "walking scam." "I immediately saw the difference when I saw the video. I couldn't grasp the reason to lie about waffles. What kind of person needs to do that? Meghan Markle is a walking scam," wrote one X user. Another commented, "Meghan Markle's relentless compulsion to lie about everything is baffling—even over something as trivial as a waffle. She posted a video of herself using a waffle maker with a divider, yet the so-called 'homemade' waffle she presented looked exactly like a store-bought one, missing the dividers that should have been there. Why stoop to such a pathetic, pointless lie? This constant need to twist reality and deceive—especially over something so insignificant—is deeply concerning. She seriously needs help!" Belgian actor Émilie Dequenne dies at 43 from cancer A third user remarked, "Wouldn't be surprising at all! The effort she puts into staging even the simplest things is almost impressive. Imagine going through all that just to fake a waffle—it's like she can't help herself." Source: NDTV

Hollywood writer-director Carl Erik Rinsch, best known for directing 47 Ronin, was arrested Tuesday on charges of wire fraud and money laundering after allegedly defrauding Netflix of $11 million for a sci-fi series that never aired. According to federal prosecutors, Netflix initially paid $44 million for Rinsch’s unfinished show, White Horse. He later requested an additional $11 million, claiming it was needed to complete production. Instead, prosecutors say Rinsch diverted the funds into a personal brokerage account, where he made risky investments, losing about half within two months. Tom Hardy faces his past in Netflix’s crime thriller ‘Havoc’ trailer The remaining funds were funneled into cryptocurrency, yielding profits that Rinsch later transferred to a personal bank account. Prosecutors allege he then went on a lavish spending spree, purchasing: $2.4 million worth of Rolls-Royces (five) and a Ferrari$3.8 million on furniture and antiques$652,000 on luxury watches and clothing$1.8 million to pay off credit card bills$1 million in legal fees—ironically, to sue Netflix for more moneyRinsch, 47, was arrested in West Hollywood and appeared in a Los Angeles federal court wearing a turtleneck sweater and jeans, shackled at the arms and legs. He did not enter a plea but confirmed he understood the charges. U.S. Magistrate Judge Pedro V. Castillo approved his release on a $100,000 bond, requiring him to appear in New York, where his indictment was filed. His court date has yet to be set. Top 10 Netflix English Originals to Watch in April 2025: Movies, Series, and Shows His attorney, Annie Carney, declined to comment but noted the allegations were “purely financial.” Netflix has not responded to requests for comment. Source: With input from agency

Renowned Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has once again captivated audiences with his latest spiritual release, Ya Nabi Salam Alaika. Known for his heartfelt renditions of religious poetry, Atif continues to inspire listeners with his soulful performances.  In this new recitation, he collaborates with esteemed artists Ahsan Parvaiz Mehdi and Kumail Jaffery, delivering a moving tribute to the essence of Ramadan, according to dunyanews. Set against a breathtaking natural backdrop, the rendition exudes tranquility and devotion, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the holy month.  Will Smith to release first album in 20 years Atif Aslam, who enjoys a massive international following, has consistently expressed his deep appreciation for religious recitals, considering them among his most meaningful works. His spiritual releases have strengthened his bond with listeners, offering them solace and a sense of connection.  Since its release, Ya Nabi Salam Alaika has garnered widespread acclaim on social media, with fans praising its sincerity and calming arrangement. Many have expressed gratitude for Atif’s contribution to the spiritual beauty of Ramadan, calling it a cherished addition to this year’s celebrations.  With each release, Atif continues to bridge the gap between music and spirituality, leaving a lasting impression on his audience.

Disney’s latest animated sequel, Moana 2, has recorded an impressive 27.3 million views on Disney+ within its first five days, making it the third most successful Disney Animation theatrical release on the streaming platform.  The film sees Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprising their roles as Moana and Maui, respectively. It has achieved the biggest Disney Animation debut on Disney+ since Encanto.  The original Moana, released in 2016, remains the platform’s most-watched film, accumulating 1.4 billion hours of streaming since Disney+ launched in 2019, Variety reports.  Will Smith to release first album in 20 years Initially planned as a television series, Moana 2 premiered in cinemas on November 28 and surpassed $1 billion in global box office earnings. The sequel was directed by Dana Ledoux Miller, David G Derrick Jr, and Jason Hand. Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear composed the soundtrack, taking over from Lin-Manuel Miranda, who created the music for the first film. The cast also includes Nicole Scherzinger, Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, Temuera Morrison, David Fane, and Hualālai Chung.  Co-director Miller reflected on the cultural significance of Moana, saying she had never experienced a major cinema screening where the voices of her people were represented. Top 10 Netflix English Originals to Watch in April 2025: Movies, Series, and Shows “I had never walked into a Regal Cinema and heard the voices of my people before. And to have one of them be a Disney princess changes everything. It says, ‘It’s OK to be Polynesian and be strong and adventurous and funny.’ You see yourself reflected on screen and that’s powerful.”

Oscar-winning actor Will Smith is set to make his long-awaited return to music, announcing that his latest album will be released on March 28 – marking his first in two decades.  The actor, rapper, and producer shared the news via Instagram on Sunday, revealing the title ‘Based on a True Story’ and urging fans to pre-save the album, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album, Based on a True Story, drops on 28 March. TWO WEEKS!! Hit that presave. Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all,” he wrote to his 69.5 million followers.  The 14-track record will see Smith reunite with longtime collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff and include features from Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross. In January, he released Beautiful Scars, a single featuring Big Sean and Obangain.  Smith first rose to fame as a rapper in the late 1980s as part of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, producing hits such as ‘Parents Just Don’t Understand’ and ‘Girls Ain’t Nothing but Trouble’, both of which gained significant airplay on MTV. Metallica launches immersive concert on Apple Vision Pro His musical career flourished alongside his acting, particularly after starring in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He later produced title tracks for films such as ‘Men in Black’ and ‘Wild Wild West’, reaching his peak with 1997’s ‘Big Willie Style’ before releasing three more albums.  Despite his success, Smith is still rebuilding his public image following the 2022 Oscars controversy, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage over a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith. The incident led to a 10-year ban from the Academy Awards, casting a shadow over his otherwise illustrious career.  Now, Smith appears eager to reclaim his musical legacy with his latest project. Top 10 Netflix English Originals to Watch in April 2025: Movies, Series, and Shows

Philanthropist Melinda French Gates shared her desire for people to see her "thriving" after her divorce from Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates. In an interview with Elle, Melinda discussed how her life has transformed since the separation and expressed that while divorces are “painful,” it is not something she would “wish on any family.” When asked about a part of her book discussing the months before her divorce, Melinda recalled a trip to Santa Fe with Bill, where she realized that the house they had rented once belonged to a couple who had separated. Intrigued, she searched online to learn what had become of them. She was then asked what she would want someone to discover about her if they found themselves in her former home years later. Her response was, “She is thriving on the other side of a divorce… Just thriving.” Regarding dating after her divorce, Melinda noted that it is not her current priority. While she has previously been linked to entrepreneur Philip Vaughn, she emphasized that she knew she would be okay on her own after the divorce, calling that independence the most important aspect. Melinda and Bill Gates first met in 1987 and married in 1994 after seven years of dating. Their divorce was announced in May 2021 and finalized in August. Reflecting on her life post-divorce, Melinda mentioned feeling “unencumbered” for the first time, now having the freedom to manage her own finances and companies. She expressed that a woman should have her “full voice” and decision-making authority, adding that she now enjoys making decisions without seeking permission from anyone. Belgian actor Émilie Dequenne dies at 43 from cancer As she embraces life beyond 60, Melinda has become less concerned about others' opinions, describing herself as a “recovering perfectionist.” She focuses on staying active, enjoying activities like skiing, kayaking, walking with friends, and attending spiritual group meetings, all while seeking moments of “discovery” in her daily life. Source: Hindustan Times

Metallica has taken their live concert experience to a new level by releasing an immersive show for Apple's cutting-edge Vision Pro headset. The exclusive experience, launched on Friday, allows fans to get closer than ever to the band, virtually stepping onto the stage and witnessing performances from unique perspectives.  The concert, filmed during Metallica’s M72 tour in Mexico City last year, utilises advanced footage captured by Apple. Fans can position themselves within the crowd, hover above the stage, or even stand behind drummer Lars Ulrich’s kit, observing every detail up close—including tiny specks of dust settling on the cymbals, reports The Hollywood Reporter.  Amazon Prime to stream Trump's 'The Apprentice' reality show To mark the launch, Metallica’s bassist Robert Trujillo made a surprise appearance at the Apple Store in The Grove, Los Angeles, where fans were trying out the experience. Unbeknownst to them, he sat beside them as they watched a six-minute demo. Once they finished, Trujillo greeted them, adding a personal touch to the event.  Trujillo praised the technology’s ability to recreate the energy of a live concert. “You can really feel the music and the interaction between the fans and the band,” he said. “You can look into the fans’ eyes—it’s like you can almost touch it.”  Metallica’s release is the latest in Apple’s series of immersive music experiences for the Vision Pro, following similar projects with Alicia Keys, Raye, and The Weeknd. Their concert lasts about 25 minutes, featuring three of their most iconic songs: Whiplash, One, and Enter Sandman.  Early reactions suggest the experience is highly immersive, providing a unique way to engage with a live performance. However, with the Vision Pro’s hefty price tag of $3,500, widespread access remains limited. For those unable to purchase the headset, Apple Stores are offering demos featuring Whiplash.