United News of Bangladesh

Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Rihanna,Travis Kelce and Simone Biles all won honours at the Webby Awards, which recognize the best internet content and creators. The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences announced winners Tuesday in a variety of categories, reports AP. The 29th annual ceremony will take place at Cipriani Wall Street in New York on May 12. The Webby Entrepreneur of the Year Award went to Snoop Dogg for breaking through as a versatile businessman with Death Row Records along with two alcohol brands, an ice cream and cannabis brands. Walton Goggins won best actor award for his performances across streaming projects including “The White Lotus,” “The Righteous Gemstones” and “Fallout.” The ceremony will be hosted by comedian-actor Ilana Glazer and will honor major brands and platforms including Nike, Netflix, Letterboxd and Apple. Dr. Fei-Fei Li will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to artificial intelligence and leadership in advancing human-centered AI. “This year’s winners represent a masterclass of creativity and innovation," said Jesse Feister, executive director for the Webby Media Group. "They’ve harnessed the power of the Internet to drive change, spark conversations and connect us in new ways. With the introduction of new categories, these creators are being recognized for shaping the future of the digital world.” The Oscars mandate voters watch all nominated movies, set new rules for AI and refugee filmmakers The awards started in 1996 by recognizing websites. They have grown to embrace new technologies, from apps and software to social media and games. Google won their first-ever Brand of the Year achievement. NBCUniversal was honored for being best Media Company. Special achievement recipients include Amelia Dimoldenberg, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Jools Lebron, Marcello Hernández, the MeidasTouch Podcast and Norman Teague. Other winners include Lady Gaga for her website, Mariah Carey's “It's Time” partnership with KAY Jewelers, RuPaul's “Drag Race: The Pit Stop," Lamar's “Not Like Us” music video and Brian Cox's “Brian Cox Goes to College.” Some mission-driven organizations that won included The Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Immigration Law Center and the Whitney Museum of American Art. This year marked a new suite of categories that shed a spotlight on the booming creator economy and growing influence of creators. Some of the winners included Zach King, Caleb Simpson and Jameis Winston.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is tightening its rules to ensure greater fairness and engagement in the Oscar voting process. Starting with the next awards season, Oscar voters must watch all the nominated films in a given category to be eligible to vote in that category’s final round. Previously, Academy members were only encouraged to view the nominees and were allowed to vote based on the categories they felt most familiar with. However, the new rule aims to address growing concerns that viewing habits heavily influence which films ultimately win—and that some acclaimed works may be overlooked simply because voters didn’t watch them. The move comes in response to years of criticism, especially after the release of anonymous ballots in which some voters admitted to skipping certain films, particularly longer ones or lesser-known entries. Broader Reforms Address AI, Refugee Filmmakers, and Casting Alongside the viewing requirement, the Academy unveiled several other important rule changes on Monday. In a notable shift for the Best International Feature Film category, filmmakers with refugee or asylum status will now be allowed to represent a country that isn’t their place of birth or citizenship. The new regulation states that a submitting country must confirm that creative control of the film was primarily in the hands of citizens, residents, or individuals with refugee or asylum status in that country. AR Rahman says he prioritises work over friendships This change maintains the traditional structure of country-based submissions but offers greater inclusivity for displaced filmmakers working abroad. The Academy also outlined new regulations related to the growing role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, as well as guidelines surrounding the newly introduced Best Casting category, further signaling its intention to evolve with the changing industry landscape. These updates reflect a broader effort by the Academy to maintain credibility, transparency, and inclusiveness in the ever-evolving world of cinema. Critics have long called on changes to the nominating process for best international film because it leaves the submission process in the hands of governments, not the academy. That’s left dissident filmmakers working under authoritarian or undemocratic regimes with limited pathways to reaching the Oscars. Last year, for instance, the Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof fled Iran before he was to be flogged and imprisoned for eight years in order to release his film “The Seed of the Sacred Fig.” Germany, where Rasoulof settled, submitted it for the Oscars and it was nominated. But other filmmakers, including Rasoulof’s friend and countryman Jafar Panahi, have released films without a mechanism for submission. The rule change notably won’t alter the Oscar prospects for filmmakers who haven’t fled their home countries or change anything for films passed over by their nation’s selection committees.  

Renowned composer AR Rahman has spoken candidly about his challenges in maintaining friendships, explaining that his deep dedication to music often takes precedence over social relationships. In a recent interview with News18, Rahman shared that while he does have friends, he finds himself consistently absorbed in perfecting his musical work. “Even when I have plenty of time, I delve deeper into my compositions. If creating a song takes eight hours, I don’t stop there—I push further,” he said. “My approach is: more time leads to better output and greater satisfaction. I don’t cut down on work to make space for more friendships.” Describing his creative process, Rahman said it feels like a form of "intoxication." He constantly seeks improvement and innovation in his music. “I keep thinking I can do better and explore new possibilities. In this pursuit, 30 years have flown by,” he added. AR Rahman, wife Saira announce separation after 29 years of marriage Despite the limited communication with peers, Rahman expressed appreciation for the support he received during a recent health scare. When he was hospitalised in Chennai last month, many of his colleagues reached out. “I truly care about my friends. When they heard I was in the hospital, so many singers and directors messaged me. I was touched and made sure to thank them,” he said. On the professional front, Rahman has composed the music for Thug Life, Mani Ratnam’s upcoming film starring Kamal Haasan. The film is scheduled for release on June 5, 2025. Source: With input from NDTV

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary on April 20 with daughter Aaradhya, putting an end to ongoing rumours about their marriage. Dressed in coordinated white outfits, the couple posed for a photo with Aaradhya, which Aishwarya shared on Instagram with a white heart emoji. Abhishek added a splash of colour with red glasses. Their public appearance was warmly received by fans. One commented, “Finally sab thik ho gya…nothing is more important than family.” Another wrote, “So happy to see you guys together in a frame after so long.” Speculation about their relationship had intensified after they were seen separately at Anant Ambani’s wedding. Kesari Chapter 2 Review: Akshay Kumar Fronts a Bold Patriotic Courtroom Saga However, they were later spotted together at the event and at other family functions, including Aaradhya’s birthday and her school’s annual day, reports the Indian Express Most recently, the couple attended a family wedding in Pune, where they danced to their hit song “Kajra Re.” On the professional front, Aishwarya was last seen in Ponniyin Selvan: II, while Abhishek appeared in Be Happy and is set to star in Housefull 5.

Popular wrestling superstar and Hollywood actor John Cena made history at WWE WrestleMania 41, winning his 17th world title and surpassing wrestling's living legend Ric Flair’s legendary 16-title record at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, United States on Sunday night. The dramatic main event saw Cena face Cody Rhodes, with the match turning chaotic when internationally popular rapper Travis Scott interfered, allowing Cena to capitalize on the distraction and secure a controversial win using a 'low blow' and the title belt. The two-night extravaganza, broadcast live on Netflix, attracted 124,693 fans across both nights at the Allegiant Stadium while also enamored wrestling fans across the world, including Bangladesh. In other key moments, popular YouTuber-turned-wrestler Logan Paul shocked the world by defeating one of the most popular wrestlers in the world AJ Styles; Irish superstar Becky Lynch returned from a year-long hiatus to team up with her fellow Irish wrestler Lyra Valkyria and capture the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles, and Dominik Mysterio emerged as the new Intercontinental Champion after defeating Bron Breakker, Finn Balor, and Penta in a fatal-four-way match. ‘A Minecraft Movie’ gives Hollywood major box office boost TNA World Champion Joe Hendry made a surprise appearance, replacing the injured Kevin Owens in his scheduled match against Randy Orton due to Owens’ neck injury. Scottish superstar Drew McIntyre triumphed over Damien Priest in a ‘Sin City Street Fight,’ while the women’s triple threat match saw Iyo Sky retain her Raw Women’s World Championship against Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley. Night one of WrestleMania 41 on Saturday was highlighted by Seth Rollins defeating CM Punk and Roman Reigns in a triple threat match, aided by a shocking betrayal from Paul Heyman, who sided with Rollins. Other winners included the 2025 Royal Rumble winner Jey Uso claiming the World Heavyweight Championship by submitting Gunther, and Tiffany Stratton, who successfully defended her SmackDown Women’s Championship against 2025 Women's Royal Rumble winner Charlotte Flair. In a major announcement before the event, WWE confirmed the acquisition of Mexican wrestling promotion Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque, popularly known in the wrestling world as Triple H, revealed the move, marking a new chapter in WWE’s international growth. WrestleMania, the flagship event of WWE since its inception in 1985, remains the most iconic and anticipated occasion in professional wrestling, drawing global attention for its high-profile matches and unforgettable moments.

Stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze will host the 77th Emmy Awards, CBS announced Wednesday. One of the most popular stand-ups currently working, Bargatze will emcee the Sept. 14 ceremony at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While the Oscars have found success with Conan O'Brien, set to return in 2026, and the Golden Globes with returning host Nikki Glaser, the Emmys have had a harder time finding a regular host. The last four Emmys have been hosted by Eugene and Dan Levy, Anthony Anderson, Kenan Thompson and Cedric the Entertainer. “Nate is one of the hottest comics in the business with a remarkable and hilarious brand of comedy that deeply resonates with multi-generational audiences around the globe,” said Cris Abrego, chair of the Television Academy. ‘The Great Moose Migration’ captivates devoted fans of Swedish slow TV sensation Bargatze, while yet to emcee a major awards show, is among the most sought-after entertainers, releasing three Netflix specials including December's “Your Friend, Nate Bargatze” and hosting “Saturday Night Live.” With more than 1.2 million tickets sold in 2024, according to Pollstar, he was the top-earning comedian of the year. “It’s a huge honor to be asked to host such an iconic awards show and I’m beyond excited to work with CBS to create a night that can be enjoyed by families around the world,” Bargatze said. Last year's Emmys, hosted by the father-son Levy duo, reached 6.87 million average viewers, according to Nielsen, up 54% from the previous year.

Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, has been the subject of ongoing dating rumours involving Palak Tiwari, daughter of Shweta Tiwari and Raja Chaudhary. Even before his film debut, speculations about their relationship made headlines. In a recent conversation with Filmfare, Ibrahim finally addressed the rumours, offering a subtle response when asked about Palak. “She’s a good friend. Yeah, she’s sweet. That’s all,” he said, without divulging further details. The duo has been spotted together in public on several occasions and are said to have vacationed together in destinations like the Maldives and Goa. Palak herself has previously stated that she and Ibrahim share a good friendship. During the same interview, Ibrahim opened up about having a childhood crush on actress Deepika Padukone. He recalled realizing his father's stardom when Saif Ali Khan starred alongside Deepika in Love Aaj Kal. “I must have been seven or eight. My dad was shooting for Imtiaz Ali’s Love Aaj Kal in the UK. I was like, wow, Deepika Padukone! That was my first-ever crush. I was so little, but obsessed. That’s when I realised—my dad's a big star, if he’s acting with Deepika,” he shared. Akshay backs Salman amid ‘Sikandar’ setback: ‘Tiger Zinda Hai, Hamesha Rahega’ Recently, Ibrahim enjoyed a vacation in Switzerland with his sister Sara Ali Khan and their mother Amrita Singh. Sara posted a series of cheerful photos from the trip on social media. Ibrahim made his Bollywood debut alongside Khushi Kapoor in Shauna Gautam’s Nadaaniyan, which premiered on Netflix. Despite the hype, the film faced criticism online for its storyline and performances. His grandmother, veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, also commented on the film. “He looked handsome. He tried his best, but the film wasn’t good,” she remarked. Source: With inputs from agencies

Chhayanaut celebrated the Bangla New Year  on Monday morning with a vibrant cultural event held under the ancient banyan tree at Ramna Batamul. Centered around the theme “Amar Mukti Aloy Aloy” (My Liberation Lies in Light), the traditional celebration began shortly after sunrise at 6 am and concluded at 8:30 am. Over 150 male and female performers participated in the programme, which featured a total of 24 performances—including 9 group songs, 12 solo performances, and 3 recitations. Nation celebrating Pahela Baishakh with festive fervour The event showcased songs celebrating light, nature, humanity, and patriotism. A semi-circular stage, measuring 72 feet in length and 30 feet in width, was set up from east to west beneath the banyan tree, hosting the colorful performances. Chhayanaut Executive President Dr Sarwar Ali delivered the New Year’s greetings during the programme. The concluding performance was the national anthem performed collectively by the participating artists. Preparations for ‘Ananda Shobhajatra’ nearing completion amid enthusiasm Male performers wore maroon panjabis paired with white pajama trousers, while the female performers were dressed in off-white sarees with maroon borders.  

A group identifying itself as “Touhidi Janata” sent a letter to the Mohila Samity in the capital on Sunday opposing theatre shows at its venue, but the authorities said it won't give in. After informing theatre troupe Prangonemor of the objection, it later confirmed that their play adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore's 'Shesher Kobita' would proceed as scheduled. The issue came to light through a Facebook post by actress and director Nuna Afroz, a key member of the theatre troupe Prangonemor, on Sunday morning. According to Nuna Afroz, their play 'Shesher Kobita' was scheduled to be staged on Sunday, on the occasion of Chaitra Sankranti, and on Monday, marking Pahela Baishakh, at the Mohila Samity auditorium. The team had rented the hall, completed promotions, and made all necessary preparations. In her post, Nuna wrote, “Just now, Mohila Samity called to inform us that ‘Touhidi Janata’ sent them a letter demanding that no performances be held there." "We have already paid for the two-day rental, completed our publicity and incurred expenses in every sector. Our team has been working tirelessly. We asked Mohila Samity to seek assistance from the administration. If the administration expresses inability, then perhaps we won’t proceed.” She also posted a letter to the Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, urging to resolve the situation. In protest of this unexpected situation, members of Prangonemor announced a demonstration in front of Mohila Samity at 5:30 pm on Sunday. However, the protest was later suspended following assurances from the authorities. Later on Sunday afternoon, Nuna Afroz made another Facebook post confirming that the issue had been resolved. “Respected audience, journalists, theatre colleagues, and well-wishers — the state administration and Mohila Samity authorities have informed us that they are taking full responsibility to ensure our performances can proceed without disruption. They requested us not to hold a protest. As our primary task is to perform theatre; and since the authorities have taken responsibility - we are suspending the protest.” She further informed that while the administration requested them to hold Sunday’s performance, it was already 3:35 pm by then, making it impossible to organise the show. Instead, the Mohila Samity authorities rescheduled the April 13 performance for April 15, while the show scheduled for Pahela Baishakh on April 14 will go on as planned. Nuna also apologised to the audience for the inconvenience and requested ticket-holders for April 13 to either attend the April 15 show or, if possible, be accommodated on April 14. For further details, the troupe has provided a contact number: 01749826418.

A much-anticipated concert featuring popular Pakistani singer Mustafa Zahid was called off at the last moment on Friday, sparking disappointment among fans and confusion among participating artists. The concert titled 'Melody Unleashed', organised by Melody & Mind Communication, was scheduled to take place at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal on Friday evening. However, just an hour before show time, the organisers announced the concert's postponement via a Facebook post—citing “security concerns” as the reason. Zahid, who recently arrived in Dhaka to perform at the event, shared his frustration and heartbreak in a statement on his official Facebook page late Friday night.  “It truly breaks my heart to share this… We’ve just been informed by the organisers that tonight’s show in Dhaka has been called off due to security concerns,” he wrote on Friday. “To every single fan who bought a ticket please know this: we landed in Dhaka last night, rehearsed with some talented local musicians till the early hours of the morning, and prepared everything in our power to give you an unforgettable experience.” “Despite repeated miscommitments by the organisers, we still showed up because we didn’t want to let YOU down... We were ready. And we’ll be back properly, and soon.” The event was also supposed to feature local performers including singer AK Rahul, and bands Level Five and Encore. However, confusion reigned as even the participating artists reported being unable to contact the organisers. To make matters worse, officials at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center confirmed to several media that there was no confirmed booking under the name Melody & Mind Communication for Friday’s event; although they admitted the organisers had made initial contact, they never completed the payment process. Frustrated fans who showed up at the venue were met with locked gates and no signs of a concert - no posters, no lighting, and no sound setup. Many tried calling the organiser's contact number, only to find it switched off. Level Five also shared frustration in a Facebook post, stating: "We regret to inform our fans that the 'Melody Unleashed' show, featuring AK Rahul, Encore, and Mustafa Zahid, was marred by severe mismanagement and unprofessionalism from the organizers, Melody & Mind Communication. Despite our commitment, they failed to pay artists and vendors on time, lacked proper communication, and ultimately scammed the audience." "We apologize to fans who were affected by this pathetic excuse of an organizer. We remain dedicated to providing quality experiences. Thank you for your continued support," the band wrote. Tickets for the concert were sold in three categories: General (Tk 1,999), Melody Zone (Tk 3,499), and Premium (Tk 10,000).  This is not the first time Melody & Mind Communication has been accused of cancelling concerts. In February, their 'Rock the Capital' event was also postponed citing security reasons. Ticketholders from that event have reportedly not received any refunds to date. Friday’s cancellation has drawn sharp criticism from Dhaka’s music community, with several artists calling the incident not only “embarrassing” but also “shameful”. Mustafa Zahid is widely known for Bollywood hits such as “Toh Phir Aao” and “Tera Mera Rishta Purana” from 'Awarapan' (2007), “Jo Tere Sang” from 'Blood Money', “Hum Jee Lenge” from 'Murder 3', and “Yeh Junoon Mera” from 'Shootout at Wadala', to name a few - and also made a strong Bangladeshi fanbase through these songs. He is also the lead vocalist of Roxen, a Pakistani rock band formed in 2004. Despite the setback, Zahid assured fans in Bangladesh of a return, vowing to come back “properly, and soon.”