United News of Bangladesh

Every January, the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin hosts a remarkable winter tradition. Despite the city - capital of Heilongjiang province—already being blanketed in ice, artists flock here from near and far to create even more, competing to craft the year’s finest ice sculpture. The result is enchanting. Illuminated from within, the sculptures transform parts of the city into a magical, almost cinematic landscape, reminiscent of a festive holiday show. Visitors, often traveling long distances, bundle up to experience the spectacle. 5 simple lifestyle changes that may help slow biological ageing: Experts In images captured by Associated Press photographer Ng Han Guan on Saturday, an ice sculptor readies his piece for the festival’s competition, while spectators approach the glowing icy steps of a towering obelisk adorned in yellow and purple lights. The festival continues through mid-February, and for the adventurous, it even offers the chance to swim among the ice.

As people in much of the US. pack away holiday decorations and settle back into normal routines after New Year’s, Louisiana is doing the opposite  gearing up for its most anticipated season of the year. Across the state, preparations are underway for Carnival, a festive, weeks-long celebration held before Lent. The season is marked by rich food, lavish balls and an ongoing lineup of large parades that take over city streets. Carnival is known for excess and spectacle: elaborate costumes, nonstop celebrations and countless strings of colorful plastic beads draped around revelers’ necks. It’s a time devoted to enjoyment before the more reflective period of Lent begins. Origins of CarnivalCarnival has deep roots in Christian, particularly Roman Catholic, traditions. It represents a time of eating, drinking and celebration leading up to Ash Wednesday, which signals the start of Lent  a season of fasting and spiritual preparation for Easter. Every year, more than a million visitors join Louisiana locals in New Orleans for the world-famous festivities. But Carnival isn’t confined to the city. Celebrations take place throughout Louisiana and across the Gulf Coast, including in Mobile, Alabama, home to what is considered the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S. Similar events are also held internationally, especially in parts of Europe and Brazil. Carnival vs. Mardi GrasWhile the terms are often used interchangeably, Carnival and Mardi Gras are not the same. Carnival refers to the entire season leading up to Lent. Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday is a single day that marks the final celebration before Lent begins. Mardi Gras always falls on the day before Ash Wednesday and serves as the grand finale of Carnival, offering one last chance for indulgence. Length of the SeasonCarnival officially begins on Jan. 6, known as Epiphany or Twelfth Night in the Catholic calendar. The season concludes on Mardi Gras, but the date changes each year because it depends on when Easter occurs. Mardi Gras can fall anytime between early February and early March. This year, Fat Tuesday lands on Feb. 17, making the Carnival season last 43 days. King Cake TraditionThe start of Carnival also signals the return of king cake, a beloved seasonal dessert. Bakeries known for their king cakes often draw long lines as people eagerly await the treat. The cake, typically made from sweet, brioche-style dough, is shaped like a ring and flavored with cinnamon. It’s decorated with purple, green and gold icing — the traditional Mardi Gras colors — and may be filled with fruit, nuts or cream cheese. Hidden inside is a small plastic baby figurine. Tradition holds that whoever finds it in their slice is responsible for buying the next cake or hosting the next party, keeping the celebrations going. Over time, king cake has evolved beyond tradition. Creative versions now include unconventional fillings such as boudin sausage or even sushi-inspired designs. Parades and “Throws”Carnival is perhaps best known for its spectacular parades. More than 80 parades are scheduled in and around New Orleans this season, many lasting several hours. These parades feature lively marching bands, dancers in costume and towering floats adorned with imaginative, handcrafted designs. Each parade has its own theme and personality — from all-women krewes and political satire to sci-fi themes featuring costumed characters. Some parades boast thousands of riders and dozens of floats, while others are charmingly small, with floats built from shoeboxes. Members of krewes the social organizations that organize parades — invest significant time and money preparing for the season. Their efforts are rewarded as crowds line the streets, often dressed in costumes themselves. Spectators eagerly reach for “throws,” the trinkets tossed from floats. These include beads, candy, cups and toys, along with prized items like decorated coconuts, hand-painted shoes and even glitter-covered plungers. One of the largest krewes, Endymion, estimates it distributes more than 15 million throws each year, living by its motto: “Throw ’til it Hurts.” Other Carnival TraditionsWhile parades and formal balls dominate popular images of Carnival, many communities observe unique traditions. In rural central Louisiana, people participate in the Courir de Mardi Gras, a Cajun French custom where masked revelers travel through the countryside singing, performing and asking for ingredients. They may even chase live chickens, all to gather supplies for a communal gumbo at the day’s end. Chinese Embassy holds ‘Happy Chinese New Year Festival’ Temple Fair at Gulshan Society Lake Park In New Orleans, another powerful tradition is practiced by Mardi Gras Indians — African Americans who create intricate suits adorned with beads and feathers. They parade through neighborhoods singing, dancing and drumming. This tradition dates back to at least the late 19th century and honors Native Americans who aided Black communities and escaped slaves. It also emerged during an era when segregation excluded Black residents from white-only parades.  

Holly has long been a symbol of the season, appearing in wreaths, boughs, holiday cards, and catalog covers. But have you considered adding it to your garden? With hundreds of species and hybrids from around the world — and over a dozen native to the continental U.S. — holly offers year-round appeal and winter interest. Historically, ancient pagans used holly branches as crowns and believed the evergreens could repel evil spirits and hasten spring. Later, early Christians adopted holly as a symbol of eternal life. Its bright red berries and deep-green leaves complement traditional holiday colors, while providing an important food source for birds and wildlife (though most berries are toxic to humans). Plant holly in early spring, after the last hard freeze but before summer heat sets in, and water regularly during the first year. Most hollies are dioecious, meaning male and female plants are needed for berry production. One male can pollinate up to ten females within 50 feet. Plant tags may not indicate sex, but variety names often help — for example, “China Girl” (female) requires “China Boy” (male) to bear fruit. Here are a few top choices: Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria): Native to the southern U.S., adaptable to sun or shade, and suitable for hedges or trees. Hardy in zones 7-9.American Holly (Ilex opaca): Slow-growing, pyramid-shaped, reaching 25-60 feet, thriving in acidic soil, zones 5-9.Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae): European hybrid with blue-green spiny leaves, 2-8 feet tall, zones 5-7.Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata): Deciduous, berries on bare branches offer winter interest, zones 3-9.Caution: English or common holly (Ilex aquifolium), native to Europe and North Africa, can be invasive in parts of the U.S., particularly the Pacific Northwest and California. Avoid planting it in regions where it threatens native vegetation. With the right choices, holly can add beauty, history, and wildlife value to your garden all year long.

After two years of shuttered shops and empty streets, Christmas celebrations have begun returning to Bethlehem, offering a fragile sense of hope to a city devastated by the war in Gaza and an economic crisis across the West Bank. On Saturday evening, John Juka’s family restaurant — closed for most of the past two Christmases — was once again filled with families and glowing red lights. “It’s not like before the war,” said the 30-year-old. “But life is coming back again.” Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, relies heavily on tourism. Nearly 80% of its Muslim-majority population depends on the industry, which collapsed after Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli offensive in Gaza, which Palestinian health officials say has killed more than 70,000 people. Israeli military operations in the West Bank, including near Bethlehem, further worsened the crisis. Unemployment surged to 65%, and thousands left the city searching for work. Mayor Maher Nicola Canawati said reviving Christmas celebrations was meant to restore hope. “When Bethlehem thrives, the entire West Bank feels it,” he said. On Saturday, Manger Square filled with crowds, children atop their fathers’ shoulders, and a towering Christmas tree lit up the night. Some tourists have begun to return, and hotels expect nearly 70% occupancy during Christmas — the highest since the war began. But tensions remain high. Violence, raids, and settler attacks continue across the West Bank. On Saturday, Israeli forces shot dead two Palestinians near Hebron, saying they attempted to ram soldiers. Checkpoints have made everyday travel difficult; one resident said he spent six hours traveling less than 20 miles. Still, many in Bethlehem cling to cautious optimism. “This celebration is for everyone — Christian, Jewish, Muslim,” said Issa Montas, a 29-year-old resident. “This Christmas is for all of us.”  

A near-pristine copy of the first-ever Superman comic, discovered in an attic by three brothers cleaning out their late mother’s San Francisco home, fetched a record-breaking $9.12 million at a Texas auction this month, setting a new high for comic book sales. The brothers uncovered the comic, along with a handful of other rare pre-World War II issues, beneath layers of newspapers and dust. Their mother had once mentioned the collection’s value, but the siblings had never seen it until preparing the house for sale, according to Lon Allen, vice president of comics at Heritage Auctions. Allen inspected the comic earlier this year and confirmed its exceptional condition. Released in 1939 by Detective Comics Inc., Superman No. 1 is among the rarest comics in existence, with fewer than 500 copies believed to survive. The comic’s historical significance—as the first appearance of the Man of Steel—combined with its excellent preservation, contributed to its staggering value. Experts noted its crisp corners, firm spine, and vibrant colors, preserved in part by Northern California’s cool climate. The copy earned a 9.0 out of 10 from grading company CGC. Previously, the record for the world’s most expensive comic was set last year when Action Comics No. 1, which first introduced Superman, sold for $6 million. Another Superman No. 1 sold for $5.3 million in 2022. “This isn’t simply a story about old paper and ink,” one brother said. “This is a testament to memory, family and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us.” The identities of both the brothers and the winning bidder remain confidential, underscoring the extraordinary nature of this once-in-a-lifetime discovery.  

A soulful musical evening of classical music, storytelling, and narration was conducted by Shri Aditya Nirmal, a distinguished disciple of Pandit Samaresh Chowdhury under the school of Pandit Ravi Shankar, from Lucknow, India. Was held in the city.  The soulful and mesmerizing Classical Music Concert was organized by Siddeshwari 69 Batch and held at An Auditorium in Dhaka. The concert drew a full house of music lovers, turning into a celebration of melody, rhythm, and emotion. The concert was inaugurated by the Advisor of Ad-Din Medical College, Dr. Munshi Anwar Hossain, and began with a warm welcome address by the Convener of Siddeshwari Batch ’69, Mr. Fazlul Karim Abid. Professor Mostafizur Rahman, an esteemed alumnus and inspiration for generations of students, graced the event with his presence. Aditya led the session as the principal vocalist, narrator, storyteller, and music presenter, weaving together an intricate musical and cultural dialogue. The event was designed to explore the evolution of Bengali culture, people, and language, intertwined with the historical development of Indian classical music—tracing its roots from Dhrupad to Khayal, Thumri, and Bhajan traditions. The narration was delivered in Bengali, accompanied by live renditions of several classical Ragas, including Raag Kaushik Dhvani, Raag Khamaj, Raag Bhairavi, Raag Yaman, and Raag Vasant. The presentation also featured Chhota Khayal and Bengali Khayal compositions—fields in which Aditya has been recognized as a pioneer and innovator. Aditya Nirmal (Vocal) captivated the audience with his deep and expressive renditions of Raag Kaushik Dhvani, Raag Bhairavi, and Bangla Khayal, creating a serene connection between sound and soul. Aditya also shared the history of the Bangla language and people and its relationship with the history of Indian classical music. Simultaneously, the evolution of society and its interconnection with religion was expressed through Nazrul Sangeet, Hamnad, and Rabindra Sangeet. The evening further included Nazrul Sangeet, among which “Bagichay Bulbuli Tui” and “Bhoriyapuran” were performed and beautifully rendered by Aditya Nirmal on harmonium. Another Nazrul Sangeet composition was also presented, enriching the musical diversity of the evening. Several Rabindra Sangeet pieces were performed, deepening the audience’s connection to Bengali musical heritage. Additionally, the Thumri “Kakaroo Sajni” was rendered with profound emotion and classical depth, highlighting the expressive nuances of Hindustani semi-classical tradition. The instrumental segment featured Dilip Biswas on harmonium, accompanied by Pandit Ujjwal Roy and Rahul Chatterjee on tabla in Teental, presenting an engaging jugalbandi and solo rhythmic dialogue. Pandit Ujjwal Roy, one of India’s eminent tabla maestros, is a disciple of Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, Pandit Ashok Mehta, Pandit Suresh Talwalkar, Pandit Yogesh Samsi, and Pandit Swaraj Bhattacharya. His co-performer, Rahul Chatterjee, is a devoted disciple of Pandit Ujjwal Roy, while Dilip Biswas has been trained under the guidance of Pandit Jyoti Goho. Alongside the classical and instrumental performances, the session offered Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Sangeet, Thumri, and insightful interpretations of Bengali Khayal compositions by Kabir Suman, giving the audience a profound musical experience that seamlessly bridged tradition, innovation, and cultural depth. The narration and session also incorporated the poetic and philosophical points of Jibanananda Das, Kazi Nazrul Islam, and Jasimuddin, as well as Hamnad, enriching the presentation with literary essence and spiritual reflection. Throughout the evening, the audience remained spellbound, responding to every alaap, taan, and rhythm cycle with heartfelt applause. The performers’ dedication and artistry reminded everyone that music, in its truest form, transcends words and unites hearts. The program was beautifully coordinated and hosted by Siddeshwari (69 Batch), whose efforts in promoting classical heritage were widely appreciated.

As the gardening season draws to a close, many home gardeners may be tempted to rearrange shrubs for a better landscape design — but experts caution that timing is key to ensuring healthy transplants. Gardeners should avoid rushing to move late-blooming shrubs. For example, Clethra bushes, which flower in late summer, should be transplanted in spring — right after emerging from dormancy — to allow enough time for roots to establish before blooming begins. Conversely, spring and early summer bloomers are best moved in the fall, after their flowering season has ended. Start with the rootsBefore digging, it’s crucial to understand how deep and wide a shrub’s roots typically grow. Shallow-rooted plants like rhododendrons are easier to move than deep-rooted ones such as manzanita. The plant’s age also matters, as older shrubs have larger, tougher root systems. When preparing the new site, the hole should be roughly twice as wide as the root system and the same depth as the plant’s original location. Always dig the new hole first to minimize the time the roots are exposed to air. Gently tying branches together can prevent eye injuries and provide a clearer view while digging. Use a sharp shovel to carefully loosen soil around the plant’s perimeter, working gradually to lift as much of the rootball as possible. The science behind growing a giant pumpkin Planting with careTo move the shrub safely, place it on a tarp and drag it to its new location. Ensure the rootball sits at the same level as before — not too deep, to avoid rot, and not too shallow, to prevent drying and damage. After positioning the plant, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down periodically to remove air pockets. Water halfway through, continue filling, then water again before applying mulch over the root zone. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Throughout the first year, water the shrub consistently until frost, but avoid fertilizing too soon. Experts recommend waiting until mid-to-late spring to apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer — giving the plant time to recover and establish roots before promoting new growth. Proper timing and technique, they say, can make the difference between a struggling transplant and a thriving shrub that flourishes for years. Source: AP 

Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that around 10 to 12 lakh people attended this year’s Lalon Festival in Kushtia, citing district administration figures. In a Facebook post on Monday, he said the massive turnout might make it “the biggest cultural festival in our history.” “Lalon is deeply rooted in our culture, and probably the biggest cultural ambassador for Bangladesh,” he wrote on Monday. The annual Lalon Festival, commemorating the 135th death anniversary of Baul saint Fakir Lalon Shah, drew an unprecedented number of devotees, artists, and visitors this year in both Kushtia and Dhaka. According to the Kushtia district administration, around 10 to 12 lakh people attended the three-day celebration in Cheuriya, the spiritual abode of Lalon, making it one of the largest cultural gatherings in Bangladesh’s history. From October 17 to 19, the Lalon Akhra in Cheuriya resonated with Baul songs, philosophical discussions, and spiritual exchanges, as devotees and followers gathered to honour the mystic bard. Renowned Baul singers including Tun Tun Baul, Sunil Karmakar, Rowshan Fakir, and Latif Shah, along with numerous other artists from across the country, performed at the festival, filling the air with the melodies of Lalon’s timeless songs. Simultaneously, a Lalon Festival was also held in Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan on October 18, where performances were presented by Emon Chowdhury and Bengal Symphony, Lalon Band, Nirob & Bauls, Pathik Nabi, Suchona Shely, Baula Band, Arup Rahee, Somogeet, and several other musicians and groups. The massive attendance at both the Kushtia and Dhaka events highlighted the enduring appeal of Lalon’s philosophy of humanity, equality, and spirituality, reaffirming his profound influence as a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s intangible cultural heritage.  

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Laufey is branching out into children’s literature with her debut picture book “Mei Mei The Bunny,” inspired by her beloved mascot-alias. Publisher Penguin Workshop announced Tuesday that the book, illustrated by Lauren O’Hara, will be released on April 21. The story follows Mei Mei, a determined young bunny aspiring to become a professional musician despite early setbacks. Merriam-Webster adds 5,000 new words in fully revised ‘Collegiate’ dictionary “I’m so excited to now share Mei Mei The Bunny in storybook form!” Laufey said. “Mei Mei has been part of my life for years, and opening up her world has been a beautiful journey. I hope readers of all ages find something inspiring in her story.” Born Laufey Lín Bing Jónsdóttir in Iceland, the 26-year-old artist is known for her signature blend of pop, classical, and jazz influences. Her 2023 album “Bewitched” earned her a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, and she followed up with “A Matter of Time” earlier this year. Source: AP 

For the first time, a nationwide celebration will be held on the occasion of the 135th death anniversary of the legendary mystic poet and philosopher Lalon Shah, featuring Lalon festivals and fairs across the country. The three-day event in Kushtia, organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in collaboration with the Kushtia district administration, will run from October 17 to 19, while Dhaka will host its festivities on October 18. Simultaneously, Lalon fairs and festivals will take place across all 64 districts on October 17. The cultural program in Kushtia will feature an in-depth exploration of Lalon’s philosophy, musical performances, and a vibrant Lalon fair. The inauguration ceremony will be held at Lalon Dham in Cheuriya, Kumarhati Upazila, Kushtia, on October 17 at 4 pm. Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki will attend as the chief guest, while Md Mofidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry, will deliver the welcome address. Internationally renowned writer and researcher Professor Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak will participate as the keynote speaker in the Lalon lecture session. The session will also feature prominent poet, writer, and thinker Farhad Mazhar, along with Professor A.A. Mamun from the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at Rajshahi University. The program will be chaired by Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arifin, Deputy Commissioner of Kushtia. Following the inauguration, the air at Lalon Dham will resonate with Lalon songs and mystical tunes. Baul and Fakir performers from across the country, including TunTun Baul, Sunil Karmakar, Rawshan Fakir, and Latif Shah, will take the stage, and the festival grounds will continue to be filled with performances by visiting Baul-Fakirs on October 18 and 19. In Dhaka, Lalon festivals and fairs will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan on October 18. Performers at the event will include Imon Chowdhury and the Bengal Symphony, Aleya Begum, Lalon Band, Nirab & Bauls, Mujib Pardeshi, Pothik Nobi, Suchona Shely, Baula Band, Arup Rahee, Samageet, and several other musical groups. Alongside Kushtia and Dhaka, the nationwide celebration on October 17 will mark the first-ever simultaneous observance of Lalon festivals and fairs in all 64 districts, bringing together devotees, artists, and cultural enthusiasts to honor the legacy of the spiritual luminary.