Mahiya Tabassum

Mahiya Tabassum is a writer and journalist. She is working as a sub-editor at The Daily Star. Send her book and film recommendations at [email protected].

Gaza Holocaust and Press Freedom: Drik calls a spade, a spade

The event, inaugurating the photo exhibition "Gaza Holocaust: Killing the Truthtellers", delved deep into the nuances of Western media's portrayal of conflicts, particularly the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Moderated by renowned photojournalist Shahidul Alam, the discussion brought together voices echoing a common sentiment: the West's selective adherence to its proclaimed values.

2d ago

Not ‘fair’ at all: Why are fair-skinned actors cast for dark-skinned characters?

In an industry spotlighting talent and storytelling, recent controversies have cast a harsh light on a persistent issue: colourism in casting. The latest uproar emerged when photos of popular actress Sabila Nur surfaced, displaying her intentionally darkened complexion for an upcoming drama, "Bidisha", which is slated to be released today, on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Ironically, this deliberate alteration of the skin complex for the role contradicts the very essence of celebrating this day, sparking a crucial debate over the representation of skin complexion and societal standards.

2m ago

Easy OTT guide of 2024: Navigating our thriving streaming landscape

What sets OTT platforms apart is the flexibility they offer, allowing users to enjoy a customised watching experience on a range of devices. Unlike cable TV, which relies on a television set, OTT platforms provide the freedom to access content through smartphones, gaming consoles, laptops, and smart TVs. This flexibility has positioned OTT platforms as the go-to option for today's discerning audience.

3m ago

Art as a form of resistance: Palestinian artists stand against Israeli occupation

Palestinian art took on a more secular style from the late 19th century with issues related to “identity, memory, location, and resistance.” Artworks depicting Palestinian life also included a repertoire of “politically potent icons like the cactus and metaphors such as Palestine as the motherland.” The territory’s vibrant arts community was a testament to Palestinian resilience, but now it is losing voices central to its spirit.

3m ago

‘Barir Naam Shahana’: A riveting dive into resilience and rebellion

The narrative, based on actual events, unfolds in a small town in 1990s Bangladesh, where the film's protagonist, Dipa, portrayed with resilience and conviction by Aanon Siddiqua, grapples with the aftermath of a failed marriage, societal taboos, and the weight of family honour. Aanon’s acting prowess, coupled with the raw emotions portrayed throughout the runtime, is bound to leave the audience in awe.

3m ago

Bringing the ‘Dhamaka’ to Bangla rap: Shafayat opens up on his journey

Mohammad Shafayat Hossain, popular by his stage name Jalali Shafayat, stands as a prominent member of the acclaimed rap ensemble, Jalali Set, making him one of the most recognised rappers in the country. Whether in collaboration with Jalali Set or as a solo artiste, he consistently proved his prowess in delivering versatile verses and hit tracks, including “Dhamaka”, “Local Bus” in collaboration with the once-national sensation Momotaz Begum, and “Mainkar Chipay” alongside AvoidRafa.

3m ago

Creating safe public spaces for women: A collective responsibility

Creating safe and empowering public spaces demands a multidimensional approach, the first step of which is initiating table conversations.

3m ago

The golden voice falls silent

The realm of Indian classical music lost one of its brightest stars yesterday as Ustad Rashid Khan, the 10th-generation face of Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, bid us farewell.

4m ago
May 7, 2024
May 7, 2024

Gaza Holocaust and Press Freedom: Drik calls a spade, a spade

The event, inaugurating the photo exhibition "Gaza Holocaust: Killing the Truthtellers", delved deep into the nuances of Western media's portrayal of conflicts, particularly the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Moderated by renowned photojournalist Shahidul Alam, the discussion brought together voices echoing a common sentiment: the West's selective adherence to its proclaimed values.

March 8, 2024
March 8, 2024

Not ‘fair’ at all: Why are fair-skinned actors cast for dark-skinned characters?

In an industry spotlighting talent and storytelling, recent controversies have cast a harsh light on a persistent issue: colourism in casting. The latest uproar emerged when photos of popular actress Sabila Nur surfaced, displaying her intentionally darkened complexion for an upcoming drama, "Bidisha", which is slated to be released today, on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Ironically, this deliberate alteration of the skin complex for the role contradicts the very essence of celebrating this day, sparking a crucial debate over the representation of skin complexion and societal standards.

January 30, 2024
January 30, 2024

Easy OTT guide of 2024: Navigating our thriving streaming landscape

What sets OTT platforms apart is the flexibility they offer, allowing users to enjoy a customised watching experience on a range of devices. Unlike cable TV, which relies on a television set, OTT platforms provide the freedom to access content through smartphones, gaming consoles, laptops, and smart TVs. This flexibility has positioned OTT platforms as the go-to option for today's discerning audience.

January 27, 2024
January 27, 2024

Art as a form of resistance: Palestinian artists stand against Israeli occupation

Palestinian art took on a more secular style from the late 19th century with issues related to “identity, memory, location, and resistance.” Artworks depicting Palestinian life also included a repertoire of “politically potent icons like the cactus and metaphors such as Palestine as the motherland.” The territory’s vibrant arts community was a testament to Palestinian resilience, but now it is losing voices central to its spirit.

January 23, 2024
January 23, 2024

‘Barir Naam Shahana’: A riveting dive into resilience and rebellion

The narrative, based on actual events, unfolds in a small town in 1990s Bangladesh, where the film's protagonist, Dipa, portrayed with resilience and conviction by Aanon Siddiqua, grapples with the aftermath of a failed marriage, societal taboos, and the weight of family honour. Aanon’s acting prowess, coupled with the raw emotions portrayed throughout the runtime, is bound to leave the audience in awe.

January 15, 2024
January 15, 2024

Bringing the ‘Dhamaka’ to Bangla rap: Shafayat opens up on his journey

Mohammad Shafayat Hossain, popular by his stage name Jalali Shafayat, stands as a prominent member of the acclaimed rap ensemble, Jalali Set, making him one of the most recognised rappers in the country. Whether in collaboration with Jalali Set or as a solo artiste, he consistently proved his prowess in delivering versatile verses and hit tracks, including “Dhamaka”, “Local Bus” in collaboration with the once-national sensation Momotaz Begum, and “Mainkar Chipay” alongside AvoidRafa.

January 12, 2024
January 12, 2024

Creating safe public spaces for women: A collective responsibility

Creating safe and empowering public spaces demands a multidimensional approach, the first step of which is initiating table conversations.

January 10, 2024
January 10, 2024

The golden voice falls silent

The realm of Indian classical music lost one of its brightest stars yesterday as Ustad Rashid Khan, the 10th-generation face of Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, bid us farewell.

January 9, 2024
January 9, 2024

Music maestro Ustad Rashid Khan passes away at 55

Ustad Rashid Khan, a celebrated music maestro, succumbed to death this afternoon while fighting the battle with prostate cancer at a hospital in Calcutta, as confirmed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

January 6, 2024
January 6, 2024

I am almost immune to personal attacks: Rakin Absar

In the saturated and dynamic landscape of content creation, Rakin Absar is popular for his quirky style, raw humour and even speculations surrounding his sexuality. The content creator juggles various roles in the digital media industry as a comedian, host, marketer, and programme producer.

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