Traditions treasured, artisans in shadows: Is UNESCO's recognition truly benefiting local craftspeople?
On 6 December 2023, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced the inclusion of Bangladesh's iconic rickshaws and rickshaw art on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Similarly, many of our heritage crafts, namely the traditional art of Jamdani and Shital Pati weaving were given recognition by UNESCO in 2013 and 2017 respectively. But how are our artisans doing?
2d ago
Crafting majesty: Tasleema Alam's royal commissions and her love for Islamic art
From gracing the majestic walls of mosques to the pages of intricate manuscripts and beyond, the appeal of the Islamic art form has persisted over centuries and captivated many. The beauty and depth of this art form attracted Tasleema Alam – an artist, designer and educator – who recently designed an Afghan carpet for His Majesty King Charles III.
2d ago
Unmukto Library invites you to read under the open sky
When we talk about libraries, what image first comes to our minds?
4d ago
Coke Studio Bangla’s ‘Tati’ celebrates Bangladeshi weavers
If you are a devoted listener of Coke Studio Bangla, chances are you may not have missed its Season 3 opener, “Tati,” — a song that celebrates not just the music, but the very soul of Bangladeshi craftsmanship. Released under the creative direction of Shayan Chowdhury Arnob, the vocalists include Md Gonjer Ali, Oli Boy and the evergreen Jaya Ahsan.
6d ago
Eid in Dhaka: The city’s top 5 celebration spots
Are you looking for the spirit of Eid celebrations in Dhaka? Here are the top 5 spots.
1w ago
Meet the achar artisan of Dhaka: Mohammad Siraj's culinary journey
If you are an urban explorer of Dhaka, the achar carts — found in different alleys and gullies of the city — would not be something surprising for you. However, if you haven’t been to Gulshan 1 DNCC Market yet, unfortunately, you have missed a vibrant emissary of tradition and taste, thanks to the variety of achar he sells.
1w ago
Achar chronicles: From sun-drenched rooftops to digital marketplaces
For different people, the word achar — the South Asian term for pickles — evokes different memories. Some revel in the memory of seeing their mothers or grandmothers sitting in the courtyards with jars of achar.
1w ago
Woven with love: Choosing deshi and sustainable this Eid
As we gear up for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, there’s this beautiful buzz in the air filled with anticipation and a spirit of giving. We can — with the intention of not just looking good but doing good — support our local artisans. By buying deshi and adopting ethical practices that promote sustainability, we can not only benefit our immediate community but also contribute to the broader well-being of our country.
2w ago
March 28, 2024
Choosing timeless loose-fitting wear for Eid and beyond
In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift in fashion trends towards more inclusive and diverse styles, particularly when it comes to comfortable wear.
March 21, 2024
New era for zoo animals in Bangladesh: Rangpur and National Zoos’ modern makeover
The authorities have laid out plans for the Rangpur Zoo of Rangpur district and the Bangladesh National Zoo at the capital’s Mirpur. Talks are being held to remodel both the zoos not as places of captivity but as sanctuaries, where animals can roam around freely. The zoos are to become a safe haven where the concept of ‘viewing’ animals shifts to ‘encountering’ them.
March 20, 2024
The ideal workout schedule during Ramadan by fitness coach Nazia Hassan
Ramadan may present a unique set of challenges for those trying to maintain or start a fitness routine. With fasting from dawn until sunset, the absence of food and water intake during daylight hours can make it difficult to decide the best time to exercise. Nazia Hassan, a celebrated fitness coach and nutrition expert, offers her invaluable insights into navigating these challenges — ensuring that our spiritual journey and fitness goals align harmoniously.
March 20, 2024
Bicycles against traffic
If you ask anyone what would be a defining trait of Dhaka, the notorious traffic congestion might be one of the answers.
March 15, 2024
Saiqa Iqbal Meghna's vision for the Zebun Nessa Mosque
Amidst the burgeoning industrial outskirts of Dhaka, at Jamgora in Ashulia, stands the Zebun Nessa Mosque – a synthesis of architectural innovation and spiritual tranquillity. Made in a monolithic form, the structure of the mosque has been designed as a “breathing pavilion,” harnessing the natural elements of light and air to create a sanctuary that is both a retreat and a reflection of the divine.
March 14, 2024
How Dhaka’s metro rail simplifies Ramadan commutes
The metro rail has emerged as more than just a mode of transportation — it is a respite. During Ramadan, when the city seems to pulse with a heightened sense of urgency, the metro offers a calm, efficient path through it all. Its ability to bypass the notorious traffic jams means that people can ensure timely arrivals at work and, more importantly, at the family’s dinner table for iftar.
March 13, 2024
Kumudini Handicraft’s tribute to sustainability and women’s empowerment
On 8 March, 2024, the Kumudini Flash Fashion Show unfolded as a tribute to the power of tradition, craftsmanship, and women’s empowerment. Aligning with International Women's Day, this exclusive event not only showcased an exotic seasonal collection of fashion but also reinforced the ethos of Kumudini Handicrafts — symbolising care and empowerment, particularly for women.
March 11, 2024
The lesser-known marvels of Baldah Garden
Although many of us have known or heard of Baldah Garden, how frequently have we visited this century-old botanical paradise? Perhaps, not often enough to know what a splendid recreational space this garden can be!
March 10, 2024
Ethnic wear reimagined: Tanjena Mahbub's innovative vision for tribal textiles
These days, among the endless choices of Western wear, tribal fashion seems to have lost its appeal. But unlike others who mindlessly chase the latest trends, Tanjena Mahbub is an exception. An Associate Professor at the Shanto-Mariam University of Creative Technology in the Department of Fashion Design and Technology, Mahbub is determined to bring back the lost charm of ethnic wear.
March 10, 2024
Sonia Musa Dhaka Eid-ul-Fitr collection showcased at Aloki Convention Center
On the evening of 7 March 2024, the Aloki Convention Center at 211 Tejgaon Link Road dazzled with the launch of Sonia Musa’s Eid-ul-Fitr Collection. This event added a layer of splendour to the city’s sartorial landscape. The collection was showcased through a runway show, where prominent models graced the stage, elegantly setting a festive mood for the upcoming Eid season.
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