United News of Bangladesh

Tecno Spark 20 Series Music Fest, organized by WebAble Digital, has recently electrified the ICCB Expo Zone in the capital with an unforgettable night of music and entertainment. The event, held on Friday, March 1st, brought together music enthusiasts from across the region for an evening of stellar performances by some of the most renowned artists. Headlining the event was the Indian sensation Badshah, whose energetic performance captivated the audience and set the stage on fire. Joining him were acclaimed Bangladeshi artists Fuad & Friends, Pritom Hasan, Xefer, Sanjoy, and Blackzang, who each delivered electrifying sets, showcasing their immense talent. The venue buzzed with excitement as attendees packed the ICCB Expo Zone to capacity, creating an electric atmosphere that pulsated with energy throughout the night. Despite the large turnout, security measures were meticulously implemented, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The event concluded on a high note, with attendees raving about the outstanding performances and seamless organization. From start to finish, the Tecno Spark 20 Series Music Fest delivered an unforgettable experience that will be remembered for years to come. The organizer of the event, WebAble Digital, is a leading digital marketing agency committed to creating impactful experiences and driving meaningful connections through innovative digital solutions. With a focus on creativity, technology, and data-driven strategies, WebAble Digital empowers brands to reach their full potential in the digital landscape.

What happens when the son of Asia's richest man is about to get married? His father throws a three-day prenuptial bash four months before the actual ceremony. Tycoons from around the world, heads of state, as well as Hollywood and Bollywood stars descended on the small western Indian city of Jamnagar on Friday where billionaire industrialist Mukesh Ambani is kickstarting a big fat wedding celebration for his youngest son. The nearly 1,200-person guest list includes pop superstar Rihanna, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Sunder Picha, Ivanka Trump and Bollywood celebrity Shah Rukh Khan. Iris Apfel, fashion icon known for her eye-catching style, dies at 102 All eyes are on Anant Ambani, 28, and his long-time girlfriend Radhika Merchant, 29, who will tie the know in July. Radhika is the daughter of Viren Merchant, CEO of Encore Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., and entrepreneur Shaila Merchant. Such festivities keep up with the Ambani family's tradition of lavish and over-the-top parties while displaying the Indian billionaire’s economic and political clout Here is everything you need to know about the family and the prenuptial bash that captivated the country. Who is Mukesh Ambani?Mukesh Ambani, 66, is currently the world’s 10th richest man with a net worth of $115bn, according to Forbes. He is also the richest person in Asia. His Reliance Industries is a massive conglomerate, reporting over $100 billion in annual revenue, with interests ranging from petrochemicals, and oil and gas to telecoms and retail. Under Ambani’s leadership, Reliance — founded by his father in 1966 — sparked a telecom price war with the launch of the 4G phone and broadband service Jio in 2016. Today, it has more than 420 million subscribers and offers 5G services. Earlier this week, Disney struck an $8.5bn deal to merge its India business with Ambani’s Reliance Industries, forming a new media giant. The Ambani family owns, among other assets, a 27-storey private apartment building, named Antila, worth $1 billion in Mumbai. It has three helipads, a 160-car garage, a private movie theatre, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. Ambani’s critics say his company has flourished mainly because of political connections during the Congress governments in the 1970s and 80s and subsequently under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rule after 2014. They say “crony capitalism” in India has helped certain corporations, such as Ambani's, thrive. Mukesh Ambani, 66, has started passing the torch to his two sons and daughter. The oldest son, Akash Ambani, is now chairperson of Reliance Jio; his daughter, Isha, oversees retail; and the youngest, Anant — who will wed in July— has been inducted into the new energy business.

Iris Apfel, a textile expert, interior designer and fashion celebrity known for her eccentric style, has died. She was 102. Her death was confirmed by her commercial agent, Lori Sale, who called Apfel “extraordinary.” No cause of death was given. It was also announced on her verified Instagram page on Friday, which a day earlier had celebrated that Leap Day represented her 102nd-and-a-half birthday. Born Aug. 29, 1921, Apfel was famous for her irreverent, eye-catching outfits, mixing haute couture and oversized costume jewelry. A classic Apfel look would, for instance, pair a feather boa with strands of chunky beads, bangles and a jacket decorated with Native American beadwork. With her big, round, black-rimmed glasses, bright red lipstick and short white hair, she stood out at every fashion show she attended. Her style was the subject of museum exhibits and a documentary film, "Iris," directed by Albert Maysles. “I'm not pretty, and I'll never be pretty, but it doesn't matter,” she once said. “I have something much better. I have style." Apfel enjoyed late-in-life fame on social media, amassing nearly 3 million followers on Instagram, where her profile declares: “More is more & Less is a Bore.” On TikTok, she drew 215,000 followers as she waxed wise on things fashion and style and promoted recent collaborations. UK's Prince William pulls out of memorial service for his godfather because of 'personal matter' “Being stylish and being fashionable are two entirely different things," she said in one TikTok video. “You can easily buy your way into being fashionable. Style, I think is in your DNA. It implies originality and courage.” She never retired, telling “Today”: "I think retiring at any age is a fate worse than death. Just because a number comes up doesn’t mean you have to stop.” “Working alongside her was the honor of a lifetime. I will miss her daily calls, always greeted with the familiar question: “What have you got for me today?,” Sale said in a statement. “Testament to her insatiable desire to work. She was a visionary in every sense of the word. She saw the world through a unique lens – one adorned with giant, distinctive spectacles that sat atop her nose.” Apfel was an expert on textiles and antique fabrics. She and her husband Carl owned a textile manufacturing company, Old World Weavers, and specialized in restoration work, including projects at the White House under six different U.S. presidents. Apfel’s celebrity clients included Estee Lauder and Greta Garbo. Apfel’s own fame blew up in 2005 when the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City hosted a show about her called “Rara Avis,” Latin for “rare bird.” The museum described her style as “both witty and exuberantly idiosyncratic. Her originality is typically revealed in her mixing of high and low fashions — Dior haute couture with flea market finds, 19th-century ecclesiastical vestments with Dolce & Gabbana lizard trousers.” The museum said her “layered combinations” defied “aesthetic conventions” and “even at their most extreme and baroque” represented a “boldly graphic modernity.” The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, was one of several museums around the country that hosted a traveling version of the show. Apfel later decided to donate hundreds of pieces to the Peabody — including couture gowns — to help them build what she termed “a fabulous fashion collection.” The Museum of Fashion & Lifestyle near Apfel’s winter home in Palm Beach, Florida, also plans a gallery dedicated to displaying items from Apfel’s collection. Apfel was born in New York City to Samuel and Sadye Barrel. Her mother owned a boutique. Bappa Mazumder's Odyssey set to enamor music lovers on Friday Apfel’s fame in her later years included appearances in ads for brands like M.A.C. cosmetics and Kate Spade. She also designed a line of accessories and jewelry for Home Shopping Network, collaborated with H&M on a sold-out-in-minutes collection of brightly-colored apparel, jewelry and shoes, put out a makeup line with Ciaté London, an eyeglass collection with Zenni and partnered with Ruggable on floor coverings. In a 2017 interview with AP at age 95, she said her favorite contemporary designers included Ralph Rucci, Isabel Toledo and Naeem Khan, but added: "I have so much, I don't go looking." Asked for her fashion advice, she said: "Everybody should find her own way. I'm a great one for individuality. I don't like trends. If you get to learn who you are and what you look like and what you can handle, you'll know what to do." She called herself the “accidental icon,” which became the title of a book she published in 2018 filled with her mementos and style musings. Odes to Apfel are abundant, from a Barbie in her likeness to T-shirts, glasses, artwork and dolls. Apfel’s husband died in 2015. They had no children.

Pankaj Udhas, the subcontinent’s one of the most popular ghazal and playback singers, breathed his last at 72 on Monday. The Padma Shri-famed singer’s family said that he died around 11 am at the Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai, reported by the Indian media outlets. Pankaj Udhas' daughter Nayaab Udhas shared a statement on Instagram, stating, “With a heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness.” Canadian folk singer Gordon Lightfoot dies at 84 Fans and admirers of the eminent singer flooded social media with condolences after the news of his passing. His family sources informed Indian media outlets that his final rites will be held on Tuesday. Pankaj Udhas was born in Jetpur, Gujarat on May 17, 1951 to Keshubhai Udhas and Jituben Udhas. His most well-known songs are "Chitthi Aayi Hai" from Mahesh Bhatt's 1986 crime thriller "Naam," "Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera" from Pravin Bhatt's 1998 film ‘Ek Hi Maqsad,” "Aaj Phir Tumpe" from Feroz Khan's 1988 action thriller "Dayavan," "Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise" from Lawrence D'Souza's 1991 romantic film "Saajan," and "Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata" from Abbas-Mustan's 1993 revenge thriller "Baazigar," among other notable tracks. Mehreen honoured with BCRA ‘Best Pop Singer’ Award His ghazal career includes reputed albums like ‘Aahat’ (1980) and tracks like “Na Kajre Ki Dhaar,” “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein,” “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.” He is also widely revered by the listeners of Bengal for his famous Bangla ghazals and modern songs including “Bhalobasha,” “Chokh Tar Chorabali,” “Ami Tomay Niye” and more, from the 1989 album ‘Bhalobasha.’ For his majestic contribution to the art of Ghazal and the Indian music industry, Pankaj Udhas received the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award of the Republic of India, in 2006.

This year's must-attend musical fiesta for the youth, the Joy Bangla Concert, is taking a groundbreaking leap by stepping outside Dhaka for the first time, promising an array of surprises. Young Bangla, the nation's largest youth network, sparked a social media frenzy with its announcement, revealing Chattogram as the new host city to the delight of eager fans. The buzz began with a simple yet compelling Facebook post: "Coming to Chattogram." Shared by Young Bangla and CRI, the announcement has since been echoed across social platforms by hundreds of enthusiastic fans, reminiscing over the concert's past glories. Joy Bangla Concert: Untold stories of how the mega event came to be Set to light up the MA Aziz Stadium, this year's concert aims to resurrect the spirit of Bangabandhu's historic March 7 speech, featuring a blend of iconic and up-and-coming rock bands ready to rock the audience. Since its inception in 2015, the Joy Bangla Concert has quickly ascended to the pinnacle of musical celebrations, captivating the youth and setting a new benchmark for musical gatherings. After a brief intermission due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the concert made a triumphant return in 2023. Joy Bangla Concert 2023 starts with observing minute’s silence in memory of Gulistan blast victims What sets this concert apart is its dedication to reliving the pivotal moments leading to the 1971 Liberation War, offering not just music but a journey through history. A university student's Facebook post captured the anticipation: "I had the time of my life at the last concert and cherished every moment. I'm planning my trip to Chattogram already because missing this year's edition is simply not an option."

Earth360° Festival, an annual art festival that uses visual storytelling to raise environmental awareness and inspire actions for a sustainable future, is currently ongoing at the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro (BSK) in the capital. Inaugurated on February 17, the four-day event is organised by Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI), an environmental non-profit, in partnership with the US Embassy in Dhaka. This year, Earth360° Festival is themed on “Rivers and Riverine Lives” to showcase a variety of stories about the country's rivers and river-dependent lives. James Gardiner, Economic Officer at the US Embassy Dhaka and Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI) founder Shamir Shehab graced the opening ceremony as guests. The opening ceremony on Saturday was followed by the first Earth360 dialogue on ‘Artists with Conscience’, in which cartoonist and editor of Unmad Ahsan Habib, artist Wakilur Rahman, political cartoonist Mehedi Haque discussed and engaged with the audience on the transformative power of art in championing social and environmental causes. BYEI is an environmental non-profit organisation that has been working on environment, nature and climate change issues with youth and children to develop the next generation of planetary stewards since 2009 and regularly organises various programmes. This festival features photography and digital art exhibition, film shows, and dialogues sparking debates, discussions and critical discourse focusing on river and river dependent lives of the Bengal delta. On February 17, children from various schools of Dhaka participated in a drawing competition. Today (February 19), a special screening of the critically acclaimed film titled 'Shunte Ki Pao! Are you listening!’ by renowned director Kamar Ahmad Simon will take place at the BSK screening hall. Over 1200 submissions have been received in different categories for the official selection in the festival. A total of 70 photographs and digital arts are being displayed in the exhibition.  

The maiden edition of Community Digital Storytelling Festival (CDSTF) concluded on Saturday at the Daffodil Smart City successfully. The two-day event was held on the 16th and 17th of February by the Daffodil International University (DIU)'s Department of Journalism, Media, and Communication (JMC), showcasing 39 films from nine countries out of 106 submissions. After its successful opening on Friday, the festival concluded on Saturday with the closing session, featuring special screenings amid the presence of distinguished guests, and enlightening parallel sessions. Films were screened from three of the four categories — 'Journalism Category', 'DIU Best Community Stories' and the 'One Minute Category' — on the closing day, at the International Conference Room, Knowledge Tower, Daffodil Smart City. During the event, the Dean of FHSS, Prof Dr Liza Sharmin, graced the occasion as a special guest and delivered a speech on the significance of digital storytelling. She complimented the participants for their efforts and contribution towards making the festival a success. The second day ended with the Project Director of Bangladesh Film Archive, Dr Mofakhherul Iqbal, as the chief guest, who introduced a documentary on the role of foreign media in the Liberation War back in 1971. Professor Dr Golam Rahman, the Editor of daily Ajker Patrika and Advisor of the Department of Journalism, Media and Communication, DIU delivered the vote of thanks. On the first day of the festival, Anindo Banerjee, Head of Content, Chorki, graced the occasion as a special guest and expressed appreciation towards the event stating, "There are hidden stories all around us that need to be spoken, and CDSTF is doing that, doing their social responsibilities properly." Ayub Uddin Shihab won in the one-minute category, while Mohammad Sheikh took home the DIU Best Digital Story award. Additionally, Mithun Majumdar and Rabita Khandaker shone in the Journalism category. Moreover, a special documentary titled 'Gawe ka Padi' was shown on the first day of the event, directed by the Australian filmmaker-researcher Max Schleser, who joined virtually to answer questions regarding the film. Selected films in the 'Independent Category' were also screened on the same day.

Popular actress Mahiya Mahi will be getting a divorce from her husband Rakib Sarker. The actress made the announcement herself in a video posted on her Facebook page Friday (February 16, 2024) night. At the same time, she requested netizens to not make lewd comments about her personal life, specially her child and asked for prayers instead. Read more: Bongo unveils heartwarming Valentine’s Day Campaign: "Love Stories"

Bongo, one of the leading OTT platforms of the country, embraces romantic fervor with its latest Valentine's Day extravaganza, "Love Stories." This captivating campaign features four enchanting short films, each a testament to the magic of love, brought to life by renowned filmmakers Mizanur Rahman Aryan, Kajal Arefin Ome, Giasuddin Selim, and Vicky Zahed, said a media release. Drawing inspiration from the timeless tales found in Bishwajit Chowdhury's beloved book "Sholpo Doirghya Premer Golpo," these cinematic gems promise to whisk viewers away on a journey of romance and passion. From Aryan's heartwarming "Booking", Ome’s “Dukkhito”, Selim’s “Gaiyaa” to Vicky's poignant "Extra," each film captures the essence of love in its purest form. Starring a constellation of talented actors including Pori Moni, ABM Sumon, Ziaul Haque Polash, Parsa Evana, Prarthana Fardin Dighi, Khairul Basar, Niloy Alamgir, Sabila Nur, and more, these love stories are sure to tug at the heartstrings of audiences far and wide. Mushfiqur Rahman Manzu, the visionary producer behind "Love Stories" and Bongo's esteemed Chief Content Officer, expressed his excitement for this groundbreaking campaign: "Valentine's Day holds a special place in our hearts, and we wanted to celebrate it in grand style. With 'Love Stories,' we're not only bringing captivating tales of romance to our viewers but also introducing an innovative gifting feature. Now, fans can share the love by gifting their favorite stories to their loved ones, and even stand a chance to attend our exclusive Love Stories Gala Night, where dreams come true." Experience the magic of "Love Stories" on Bongo for just Tk 14 taka per short film, or indulge in all four for just Tk 29. But the excitement doesn't end there! Viewers can spread the love by gifting these enchanting films to their beloveds, with 50 lucky couples winning a golden opportunity to rub shoulders with their favorite stars at the Love Stories Gala Night with an unforgettable dinner experience.

Tasrif Khan and his band ‘Kureghor’ will perform in a concert to be held at Jagannath University (JnU) on February 28 to collect fund for the treatment of a cancer-affected student. The student is Zaheer Uddin Shakhawat, of the Marketing Department of the university of 2016-17 academic year , has been suffering from blood cancer (non-Hodgkin lymphoma). The concert will be held at 3 pm on the day in the science faculty premises of the university. Read: Ahmed Rubel’s body to be kept at Shilpakala Academy for people to pay respect