United News of Bangladesh

A peaceful gardening game on Roblox, created by a 16-year-old in just a few days, has become an unexpected viral hit this summer — offering players a calming escape from reality or a way to beat summer boredom. Called Grow a Garden, the game has broken records for the highest number of concurrent players on any game platform, outperforming massive, multi-million dollar productions. Unlike typical games that revolve around combat or racing, this one focuses entirely on cultivating plants — no fighting required. Even if you forget to water your crops, your virtual vegetables still grow. The gameplay is simple and relaxing: players grow and harvest crops, care for animals, and can trade — or even steal — from other gardens. The design resembles Minecraft, with tranquil classical music like Mozart's Rondo Alla Turca playing in the background. The game's laid-back style has made it hugely popular, reinforcing Roblox's status as a cultural hub for younger audiences. “This game is just chill — that’s the word I hear the most,” said Betsy Bozdech, editorial director at Common Sense Media. “It has an Animal Crossing feel. You can check in, plant seeds, and do your own thing. My 11-year-old plays it and loves that there's no pressure or major goal.” The game’s meteoric rise coincided with the announcement that Grand Theft Auto 6 would be delayed until next year. Around that time in late June, Grow a Garden hit 21.6 million concurrent players, surpassing Fortnite’s record of 15.2 million. Market analysts say the game is boosting Roblox’s revenue and could lead to stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings. It's unclear whether GTA fans are turning to gardening in the meantime, but the game's success has reignited long-standing debates over what defines a “real” gamer. Cozy games like Candy Crush, Animal Crossing, and now Grow a Garden are often dismissed by the gaming elite, who favor action-packed titles like Call of Duty or GTA. Janzen Madsen, CEO of Splitting Point Studios, which acquired the game, believes the industry is underestimating this trend. “People think Roblox is immature or weird, but I think this is what players will want in five years,” he said. “And if traditional developers don’t catch on, they’ll be left behind.” To begin playing, users create a Roblox account and are given a starter plot, some in-game currency called “sheckles,” and a basic seed. Players can grow crops, sell them, and use the money to expand their gardens with new seeds, animals, or tools. While the game can be played for free, spending real money speeds up progress. Popular YouTuber Leah Ashe (5.3 million subscribers) says the game's appeal lies in collecting rare items. “I’m a completionist — I want everything,” she said. “What’s fun is how the global seed shop refreshes every five minutes, so everyone’s looking out for rare seeds together. It really brings people together.” For Roblox, which has faced criticism over child safety concerns, the success of Grow a Garden — along with new safety features like chat filters and privacy tools — has offered a much-needed boost. The game has also fostered a helpful community, with experienced players gifting items and alerting newcomers when rare seeds are in stock. Bozdech added that, with the right parental oversight, Roblox can be a creative and safe platform. “Games like Grow a Garden could even be a great way for parents and kids to play together,” she said. And the appeal may not be limited to kids. “It’s striking a chord,” Bozdech concluded. “We all need a little escape right now — and this game provides just that.”

The recent removal of a reference to Donald Trump’s impeachments from a Smithsonian museum exhibit has triggered renewed debate over how history is preserved, presented — and potentially manipulated — especially when it involves powerful political figures. On Friday, the Smithsonian Institution confirmed it had taken down mention of Trump’s 2019 and 2021 impeachments from a temporary exhibit panel on the U.S. presidency. While the museum denied facing political pressure from the Trump administration, the move has drawn scrutiny amid broader concerns about the politicization of historical memory. The museum said the exhibit will soon be updated to reflect all presidential impeachment proceedings throughout American history. Trump, now seeking a return to the White House, has long called for institutions under federal oversight to focus on “national achievements” rather than what he labels “divisive” topics. In response to the panel’s removal, the White House issued a statement, without addressing impeachment directly, saying it supports updating displays to “highlight American greatness.” But historians and scholars argue that historical accuracy cannot be compromised for political comfort. A wider campaign to reshape historical narratives?The Smithsonian's decision comes against a backdrop of past actions by Trump’s administration to reshape cultural and historical institutions — such as removing a gay rights activist’s name from a Navy ship, seeking to defund public broadcasting, and reshuffling leadership at major cultural centers. How to protect yourself from wildfire-related air pollution “This is part of a broader effort by the president to influence and shape how history is depicted at museums, national parks, and schools,” said Julian E. Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. “It’s not just about the country’s narrative — it’s about his place in it.” The debate echoes similar struggles elsewhere. In authoritarian regimes like China and the former Soviet Union, history has often been rewritten or censored to maintain state power and suppress dissent. In such systems, inconvenient facts and figures are erased from textbooks and public memory alike. Jason Stanley, a leading scholar on authoritarianism, emphasized how crucial control over history is for political dominance. “If they don’t control the historical narrative,” he said, “then they can’t create the kind of fake history that props up their politics.” Presidents shaping their own legacy — and limitsThe impulse to manage historical memory is hardly unique to Trump. U.S. presidents and their families have long sought to influence how they are remembered — from Jackie Kennedy’s editorial influence over accounts of JFK’s assassination to Ronald and Nancy Reagan orchestrating sympathetic documentaries. Yet, scholars argue that Trump’s approach goes further. Rather than merely shaping his legacy, critics say he is fostering an atmosphere where institutions may feel pressured to choose between political loyalty and historical truth — even without direct orders. Robin Wagner-Pacifici, a sociologist at the New School, said such museum exhibits are essential for helping people “situate themselves in history.” Without them, she warned, “it seems like we just kind of burst forth from the Earth.” China’s traditional Baijiu spirit gets a makeover to woo younger drinkers Timothy Naftali, who helped overhaul the Nixon Presidential Library to give a more objective account of the Watergate scandal, called the Smithsonian’s decision “concerning and disappointing.” “Museum directors need red lines,” said Naftali, now at Columbia University. “Removing this panel crosses one.” Power and memoryDespite his immense influence, Trump’s fixation on museum exhibits and public memory shows that legitimacy in politics is never fully secure, experts say. “He’s constantly working to reshape how the public sees him and the country,” said Wagner-Pacifici. “Power has to be reconstituted constantly. It can never rest on its laurels.” Trump has previously accused the Smithsonian of promoting a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” reinforcing how the presentation of history — especially in public institutions — has become a battleground in America’s ongoing cultural and political struggles. Source: Agency 

Encouraging children to develop a love for nature and gardening can not only teach them patience and responsibility but also help them form healthy habits that last a lifetime. Experts say the best way to inspire children is to start young and give them ownership of their gardening experience. Let them choose their plants Taking children to a plant nursery and letting them select what they want to grow can spark early interest. While picking annuals or perennials, it’s important to consider safety and the garden’s conditions—such as sunlight or drainage. Some plants, like tomatoes, potatoes, and rhubarb, have toxic leaves and stems, so parents should supervise closely. For edible gardening, let kids choose vegetables they enjoy eating. Experts say they are more likely to care for what they plant and feel proud when their produce becomes part of a family meal. This can also positively influence their food choices over time. Child-sized gardening tools—rakes, hoes, spades, and gloves—can be bought new or sourced from garage sales and online marketplaces. Even regular kitchen spoons can serve as makeshift tools. Thailand provides safe shelters for pets left behind amid border clashes Make it their own At home, children can measure out a small 3-square-foot plot to serve as their personal garden space. Those without access to outdoor space can use containers with proper drainage. Encouraging children to name their garden areas—such as “Ayaan’s Garden” or “Maya’s Marigolds”—helps build a sense of ownership. They can even name each plant, adding a personal touch that deepens their connection to the garden. Teach, but let them learn by doing Children should be taught that gardens need food and water, just like they do. Parents can show the signs of under- or over-watering, but it’s best to let kids observe and decide when care is needed. Observing the sun’s path together can help them understand plant needs. While guidance is important, experts advise against expecting perfection. Kids should be allowed to get dirty, make mistakes, and learn—such as discovering that an unripe tomato doesn’t taste as good as a ripe one. A calendar—placed somewhere visible like the fridge or a bedroom wall—can help children take responsibility for watering and weeding. Checking off tasks adds a sense of achievement. Gardening offers more than just flowers or food—it provides valuable life lessons, encourages healthy habits, and creates lasting memories between parents and children. And for many families, that may be the most rewarding harvest of all.

As escalating border violence between Thailand and Cambodia forced residents to evacuate, many attempted to bring their animals along. For those who couldn’t, Thai authorities stepped in to care for the pets left behind. Thailand’s Livestock Department instructed local branches to create safe zones for animals whose owners were displaced. Several provinces along the border, including Surin, responded by setting up temporary shelters. In Surin, the Livestock Breeding and Research Center transformed its front area into a makeshift pet shelter, placing cages under cover to house animals. As of Sunday, five dogs and two cats were staying there, though the center can accommodate up to 20 animals. Center director Sornchai Kongsook said pet owners can leave their animals at no cost, but they must visit daily to care for them. “We’ve opened this space for cats and dogs that people couldn’t bring to evacuation centers,” he explained. “Some owners have moved to hotels that don’t allow pets.” Though the shelter has yet to receive any livestock, Sornchai said farm animals are welcome. Authorities are also distributing food to cattle and buffalo left in evacuated zones. Many rural residents in the northeast are farmers and often own livestock, which now roam mostly empty fields. The cross-border clashes that began last week have claimed dozens of lives and forced thousands to flee. Among the evacuees was schoolteacher Wilawan Duangvao, who had to leave her dogs—Khawtom and Khaitun—at the Surin shelter after being ordered to evacuate from Prasat district. She returned the next day to check on them. As she approached their cage, the dogs barked and wagged their tails in excitement. Wilawan tearfully cuddled Khawtom, a 2-year-old shih tzu-poodle mix, while Khaitun, a mix of American bully and Thai street dog, stood eagerly on his hind legs. Leaving them behind was a painful choice, Wilawan said, but staying at home was no longer safe. “Our house has no water or electricity. I was afraid they’d be traumatized if left alone,” she said. Now, she’s helping take care of evacuees at her school, which has been turned into a temporary shelter that doesn’t permit pets. She expressed deep gratitude to the officials who stepped in. “I’m incredibly thankful,” Wilawan said. “Everyone has been so kind. They welcomed my dogs and asked for nothing in return. I’m truly relieved.”  

Archaeologists in Israel have uncovered what may be one of the world’s oldest burial sites. Human remains estimated to be around 100,000 years old were discovered in carefully arranged positions within a cave in central Israel, suggesting early evidence of funerary rituals. The discoveries at Tinshemet Cave, documented in a recent academic journal, support earlier findings from other sites in northern Israel and provide new insights into the origins of human burial customs. Archaeologists are particularly interested in items found near the bodies—such as ochre fragments, animal bones, and basalt stones—which they believe were likely used in ceremonial practices, hinting at early forms of spirituality and beliefs in an afterlife. “This marks a significant turning point for our species,” said Yossi Zaidner, co-director of the Tinshemet excavation and professor of archaeology at Hebrew University. “It’s the earliest clear evidence of such behavior.” Since 2016, researchers have unearthed five human remains at the site, dated between 110,000 and 100,000 years old. The bodies were positioned in a fetal pose—a known burial practice—and accompanied by objects that lacked practical use, suggesting symbolic or ritual purposes. A Key Site in Human Evolution Nestled in the hills of central Israel, Tinshemet Cave—now home to fruit bats—has become a vital location for understanding human evolution during the Middle Paleolithic period, which spans from about 250,000 to 30,000 years ago. Findings published in Nature Human Behavior in March include two nearly complete skeletons and three skulls with additional bones and teeth, as well as over 500 pieces of red and orange ochre. These pigments were created by heating iron-rich rocks and indicate a capacity for symbolic or decorative behavior. Zaidner emphasized the complexity of the findings: “We’re seeing behaviors here that go beyond basic survival.” Excavation work, conducted mainly during summers, is a slow process involving detailed documentation and removal of each artifact. One human skull is still partially embedded in rock and may take years to fully unearth. According to Christian Tryon, a University of Connecticut professor and Smithsonian research associate who was not involved in the project, the site’s conditions—including ash from ancient fires and the area’s unique limestone—have helped preserve the remains remarkably well. In one skeleton, even the interlaced fingers beneath the head were clearly visible. Shedding Light on a Mysterious Past Tinshemet’s discoveries reinforce earlier evidence from other Israeli sites like Skhul and Qafzeh Caves, which were excavated under less rigorous methods decades ago. Tryon noted that the new findings provide stronger, more accurate dating and context. This supports the idea that burial practices were becoming increasingly common during this time, reflecting a shift in how early humans treated their dead. While some researchers suggest burial customs may have begun even earlier—possibly with the Homo naledi species in South Africa around 200,000 years ago—many remain skeptical due to lack of conclusive evidence. A Crossroads of Ancient Peoples Israel's geographic location once served as a passage between Neanderthals in Europe and Homo sapiens in Africa. The remains from Tinshemet are still being studied to determine whether they belonged to Neanderthals, early modern humans, or a hybrid group. Zaidner explained that the region’s diverse early populations likely exchanged knowledge and developed shared customs, such as jewelry and body painting—early signs of social identity and group belonging. Israel Hershkovitz, co-director of the excavation and a physical anthropologist at Tel Aviv University, said the emergence of burial sites also marked a symbolic claim to territory. “It’s a declaration: this land belongs to my ancestors,” he said—an idea that still resonates in cultural practices today.        

Scattered across forests worldwide, an imaginative collection of towering wooden trolls crafted from trash is quietly encouraging humans to adopt more sustainable ways of life. Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo, along with his team, has constructed 170 large troll sculptures using reclaimed materials like wooden pallets, discarded furniture, and old wine barrels. Since launching the “Trail of a Thousand Trolls” project 12 years ago, Dambo’s creations have appeared in more than 20 countries and 21 U.S. states. Every year, the team builds about 25 new trolls, some reaching up to 40 feet (12 meters) in height. “I believe we can create anything from anything,” said Dambo, speaking from his farm near Copenhagen. “We’re overwhelmed with waste, but one man’s trash truly can be another’s treasure.” A special exhibition titled “Trolls Save the Humans,” featuring six of the sculptures, is currently on view at Filoli, a historic 650-acre estate filled with gardens and forests located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) south of San Francisco. “They remind us of our connection to nature and the earth,” said Jeannette Weederman, who visited the site with her son in July. Each troll has a unique character and story. At Filoli, Ibbi Pip builds birdhouses, Rosa Sunfinger plants flowers, and Kamma Can creates jewelry from garbage. CRC Group launches ultra-luxury housing project ‘The PERIDONA’ in Dubai “These trolls all have tales to tell,” said Filoli CEO Kara Newport. “They encourage visitors to imagine their own stories and reconnect with the natural world around them.” The trolls, as envisioned by Dambo, are skeptical of humans due to their environmental destruction and wastefulness. These mythical beings, with lifespans stretching thousands of years, have seen the damage wrought by human civilizations. However, the younger trolls featured at Filoli hold a more hopeful outlook. They believe they can teach humans to care for the planet before it’s too late. “They want to save the humans by showing them how to live in harmony with nature,” said Dambo, 45, who is also a poet and former hip-hop artist. “They hope to keep humans from being devoured by the older trolls.” Gen Z’s Royal Obsession: Why 'Princess Treatment' is trending — and stirring debate Dambo’s trolls are tucked away in diverse natural landscapes—from forests and mountains to jungles and grasslands—across Europe, North America, Australia, Chile, and South Korea. Most sculptures are built on-site using locally sourced materials, with support from volunteers and skilled artists. “My exhibitions now attract 4.5 million visitors globally each year, and they’re all made from trash with the help of volunteers,” said Dambo. “It’s a powerful demonstration of why we should rethink waste and embrace recycling.” Source: Agency 

North India’s CRC Group on Sunday unveiled its ultra-luxury residential project, The PERIDONA, at a grand event in Dubai, marking its foray into India’s high-end housing market. Located within the Jaypee Greens Golf Course in Greater Noida, the project involves a development outlay of Rs 15 billion (excluding land cost) and aims to set a new benchmark for premium living in the National Capital Region (NCR). Spanning 3.1 million square feet, The PERIDONA will house 341 apartments, with just one apartment per floor—offering an exceptional level of privacy. The project brings together global design and architecture consultants, including Dubai’s Museum of the Future designer Killa Design, New York-based Rockwell Group, Gensler Architects, SWA Group for landscape design, and project management firm MACE. Study: US children's health worsened over past 17 years with rise in obesity Kunal Bhalla, Founder and CEO of CRC Group, said the development represents a “strategic entry” into India’s ultra-luxury housing space, focused on world-class architecture and a sustainable lifestyle. “The PERIDONA is designed to set an international standard for luxury condominiums. Many of its amenities are being introduced in India for the first time,” he said. Salil Kumar, CRC’s Director (Marketing & Business Management), said the project’s green surroundings, connectivity, and privacy features reinforce its luxury credentials. Construction is expected to begin next month. Located just 20 minutes from the upcoming Noida International Airport—set to become the world’s fourth-largest—the project is being positioned as a high-potential investment. Source: Agency 

Sitting in front of an open fridge might bring temporary relief, but for serious heat waves, it’s hardly a long-term solution. As temperatures soar around the world, people are turning to all kinds of cooling gadgets — from compact personal fans and chilled neck wraps to high-tech vests and breezy headgear — for comfort in the sweltering heat. While these devices can help, they’re most effective when combined with basic heat safety: staying hydrated, resting in the shade, and avoiding extreme heat when possible. Always know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Still, these innovative tools can bring much-needed relief — and while they may look unusual, they can become essentials when the AC can't keep up and the pavement feels like a frying pan. At-Home Cooling SolutionsTo keep cool indoors, consider switching to breathable, lightweight sheets or those with a silky texture. Bed fans — which circulate air under your blankets — or gel-filled cooling pillows and pads can also help. Popular sleep brands offering these include Serta, Casper, Sealy, Pluto, and Threshold. Cooling pads come in sizes for both people and pets, while mattress options from brands like Chilipad, BedJet, and 8Sleep offer full-body cooling. Outdoor WearablesClare Epstein, a workplace safety expert at Vector Solutions in Tampa, recommends wearable gear such as cooling vests and scarves, especially for workers in high-heat industries like agriculture and construction. These items are activated by soaking in cold water and slowly release a cooling effect throughout the day. Some garments use “phase change materials” (PCMs) — gel-filled components that help regulate body temperature. Uline, for example, offers vests that stay below 60°F for hours, and AlphaCool has a kid-safe neck wrap that doesn’t get too cold. Warmies also makes a freezer-friendly line of plush animal toys — ideal for kids on hot days out. Fan-powered wearables, thermoelectric cooling devices, and hydration vests that carry water or electrolyte solutions are other great options. “They help people take more water breaks and stay properly hydrated,” Epstein says. Cooling accessories come in many forms — headbands, wristbands, socks, scarves, wide-brimmed hats, and baseball caps — with brands like Mission, Ergodyne, and Sunday Afternoons leading the way. Prefer a breeze? Try a handheld or wearable fan with a USB-rechargeable battery. Expert Tips for Staying CoolLynn Campbell, co-founder of 10Adventures in Calgary, and her husband Richard, have developed some tried-and-true methods for beating the heat on hiking and cycling trips. They start activities early in the morning and rest during the hottest parts of the day, ideally by water or in shade. Their key advice: wear breathable, light-colored clothing and carry a compact umbrella. “That’s been a game-changer,” Lynn says. They also freeze water bottles and use them to douse themselves with icy water or place them on key cooling points — like under the arms, on the neck, or in the groin — for fast relief. For those struggling to sleep in the heat, Apartment Therapy writer Annita Katee suggests freezing your bedsheets. She folds them into a plastic bag, flattens it, and places it in the freezer a few hours before bed. “The result,” she says, “is a bed that feels like a refreshing oasis.”

Famous Indian actress and lawmaker Jaya Bachchan recently stirred debate after suggesting that the internet is a key factor behind anxiety among today’s youth, a claim her daughter Shweta disagreed with. In a previously aired episode of her granddaughter Navya Naveli Nanda's podcast, What The Hell Navya, the eminent actress raised concerns about Gen Z's mental health, blaming their constant dependence on digital validation. She said young people today often feel pressured to respond quickly to calls and messages and constantly seek approval from what they see online, which she believes is a key factor in increased stress and anxiety. “You get your validation from the internet. Are you saying the right thing? Are you looking okay? All of this adds to your stress,” Jaya remarked. She also added that terms like “anxiety attack” were not common and were unheard of during her youth and even well into her middle age. Group art exhibition ‘AESTHETE’ underway at Alliance Française de Dhaka However, Jaya's daughter, Shweta Bachchan, offered a contrasting perspective, suggesting that anxiety isn't a new phenomenon due to the internet. It was a problem even in the earlier times that’s more openly spoken now. The exchange has sparked wider conversations and generational views around mental health and digital life.   

Thousands of enthusiastic fans gathered at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo on Thursday to celebrate the first birthday of Moo Deng, a beloved baby pygmy hippopotamus who has taken social media by storm. The zoo, located about two hours from Bangkok, kicked off a four-day birthday celebration with free entry for children under 12. The festivities drew huge crowds, with zoo officials confirming that more than 12,000 people visited on the first day. Fans Fly in from Around the World Among Moo Deng’s global admirers was Molly Swindall from New York, who flew to Thailand just to attend the event. “I had a few days off work and thought, ‘Why not?’ Even if it’s only for 30 hours, it’s worth it to see Moo Deng,” she said. Swindall was seen handing a breakfast tray to Moo Deng’s keeper, which the hippo shared with her mother, Jona. The baby hippo remained calm in her pond as visitors took pictures and sang “Happy Birthday.” A cake made of fruits and vegetables was placed beside her enclosure, adding to the festive mood. “She’s my happy pill, my energy pill, my curing pill—she’s my vitamin!” said Thea Chavez, who came from Houston, Texas. Jennifer Tang, who traveled from Malaysia, said, “Whenever I’m stressed at work, I just look at Moo Deng’s photos. My entire office knows I’m here—they gave me a week off!” Birthday Auctions and Fan Activities To mark the occasion, the zoo held online auctions featuring Moo Deng’s photos, footprints, and feeding bowls, raising funds to support animal care. Sponsorship of her birthday cake was auctioned off for 100,000 baht (around $3,065). From Viral Star to Symbol of Conservation Moo Deng rose to fame soon after birth thanks to her keeper, Atthapon Nundee, who regularly shares heartwarming videos of her on social media—from playful biting to belly rubs. Her name, “Moo Deng,” which means “bouncy pork” in Thai, was chosen through an online poll. It follows the zoo’s naming theme, matching her siblings Moo Toon (stewed pork) and Moo Waan (sweet pork), and another resident hippo named Kha Moo (stewed pork leg). Though the zoo experienced a surge in visitors after Moo Deng's birth, the current turnout has normalized to around 2,000 visitors on weekdays and 5,000 on weekends—roughly half of the earlier peak, said zoo director Narongwit Chodchoy. “Moo Deng is more than just a social media star—she’s a voice for endangered wildlife,” Narongwit said. “She’s helping people understand the vital role zoos play in conservation.” The 800-hectare zoo houses more than 2,000 animals and runs breeding programs for several endangered species, including the pygmy hippopotamus, which is native to West Africa and critically threatened due to poaching and habitat loss. Only 2,000–3,000 are estimated to remain in the wild.