Maliha Arosha Hasan

Cutting down trees and Dhaka’s slow, gruelling death

This year, the whole of Bangladesh is experiencing unprecedented heat waves. The intense heat has reached a point where opening the windows makes the situation worse instead of bringing in relief in the form of a soothing breeze. Millions around the country, especially the lower middle class, day labourers, farmers, and people who work outside are suffering greatly.

2d ago

Empowering change: Shaathi marks Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023 with reusable pad-making workshop

Social enterprise Shaathi Bangladesh Limited organised a workshop for making reusable pads on 28 May, 2023, on the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023. The workshop was held at the Edward M Kennedy (EMK) Centre in Dhanmondi, Dhaka.

4d ago

Decoding the mind: Unravelling 7 cognitive biases that shape human decision-making

Humans make constant decisions due to their logical nature. Our choices range from simple to complex issues, such as what to eat for lunch to capital investment in a business. While we cannot be 100 per cent rational at all times, we mostly make logical decisions by weighing the pros and cons of each of our choices. That being said, we have developed some mental shortcuts known as cognitive biases to navigate and ease this decision-making process.

1w ago

Your ultimate guide to a girls' day out in Dhaka

With life getting busier with each passing day and Dhaka offering more fun activities, it is not a bad idea to get together with your girlfriends for a fun evening filled with joy and laughter, to unwind and break free of the day-to-day stress. A girls' day out is not something we associate with the city of Dhaka, but times are changing.

1w ago

The inspiring life of Tina Turner

Tina Turner, the queen of Rock and Roll, passed away at the age of 83 on 24 May 2023 at Küsnacht in Switzerland. Turner rightfully embodied the phoenix who rose from the ashes. A feminist icon and an inspiration to many around the world, she never let her personal and professional struggles define her. She cemented herself as a vocal powerhouse as part of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue, but her solo career established her as the global icon and legend we know today.

1w ago

Sobia Ameen in partnership with Estee Lauder India

Model and social media influencer Sobia Ameen’s incredible career trajectory has taken her to a new and ground-breaking partnership with Estee Lauder, the renowned makeup brand. She has collaborated with Estee Lauder India for their latest #MyShadeMyStory campaign for the cult favourite Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation.

1w ago

Top 10 Red Carpet Looks from Cannes 2023

Experience the enchantment of Cannes Film Festival 2023 through the unforgettable style moments on the red carpet. From Elle Fanning's bedazzling ensembles to Natalie Portman's mesmerising recreation of a historic Dior gown, these A-list celebrities and filmmakers showcased their sartorial brilliance.

2w ago

Best fast-food spots in Mumbai

Mumbai also has tons of restaurants and eateries almost everywhere. The fast-food/junk food options that Mumbai has to offer are plenty and, may I say, absolutely delicious. Although, you’ll be busy trying out Maharashtran food while in the city, these are some of the must-try fast food items to add to your journey!

2w ago

“Blood Sweat and Tears”: Sami Alam's ode to fashion’s unsung heroes

Sami Alam, an aspiring fashion designer, decided to use his penchant for fashion to tell the story of these workers and highlight their unacknowledged labour. He designed the thought-provoking collection “Blood, Sweat and Tears” for his Master's graduation at International Fashion Academy (IFA) in Paris, France.

3w ago

"Tale of Blue River”: A love letter to Bangladesh’s rivers

Afsana Ferdousi, the Bangladeshi fashion designer renowned for incorporating sustainability while fusing modernity and tradition in her designs, has come forward with her new collection. Titled “Tale of Blue River,” it is an ode to the riverine majesty of Bangladesh and a wake-up call for our society to work towards preserving and protecting these vital natural resources.

3w ago

How to offer criticism without being rude

Criticism is part and parcel of life. It is quintessential in improving our choices and actions. It can help us reach heights that we might not have achieved otherwise. However, no one likes being on the receiving end of criticism, as it can be a hard pill to swallow.

4w ago

Mother's Day Gifts: Top 5 ideas that your mother will treasure forever

To pay homage to our mothers, it is imperative to pick gifts that speak to their personalities and interests. No matter how many times our mothers profess that they are “happy with anything”, a good Mother’s Day gift demands something more meaningful than your run-of-the-mill chocolates. Ahead, we present a curated selection of 5 meaningful presents you can get your mother in addition to that bouquet of fresh flowers and greeting card.

Honouring Sajida Rahman Danny and the PFDA Vocational Training Centre

As Mother's Day approaches, we honour the women who have shown us love, strength, and resilience. Sajida Rahman Danny epitomises these qualities in her work empowering young adults with neurological disorders in Bangladesh. As founder and director of PFDA Vocational Training Centre, she provides skills training and opportunities to those who might otherwise be marginalised. Her efforts have changed countless lives and serve as a testament to a mother's love and determination to make a difference.

Navigating parenthood: The story of three inspiring single mothers

Single motherhood — a phrase that carries many stories of strength, perseverance, and resilience. It takes a village to raise a child yet single mothers are out there doing it all by themselves — juggling a million other responsibilities, and dealing with social stigma. Despite all these barriers and challenges, these mothers are shattering stereotypes and exceeding expectations.

Sam Altman: Revolutionising artificial intelligence

Since November 2022, the whole world has been inexplicably changed by the powerful AI chatbot, ChatGPT. This revolutionary chatbot, created by OpenAI, reached over 1 million users in 5 days. It's one of the shining examples of the incredible work being done in the field of AI, and no one is more at the forefront of this revolution than OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman.

Top 5 skincare trends that are defining the industry in 2023

The global skincare market is expected to reach sales of $207 billion by 2028. With the public consciousness towards skincare showing no signs of slowing down, we are seeing a multitude of skincare trends across the board. From different kinds of technology to science-backed formulas and innovative ingredients, let’s take a look at the top 5 skincare trends that can shape your skincare routine.

The 10 best-dressed looks from Met Gala 2023

The 2023 dress code and theme for the gala was “In honour of Karl”.

Things you probably did not know about the Met Gala

The Met Gala, formally known as the Costume Institute Gala or the Costume Institute Benefit is the annual fundraiser charity event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Why is the 2023 Met Gala so controversial?

Met Gala is the annual fundraising charity gala for the Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Museum of Art which also serves as the opening of the spring exhibition of the institute.

5 quotes from Leonardo da Vinci to take inspiration from

Born on April 15, 1452, in Italy, Leonardo da Vinci was a painter, draughtsman, engineer, scientist, theorist, sculptor, and architect. He is not only the painter of iconic paintings such as The Monalisa and The Last Supper but his notebooks were filled with drawings and notes on a variety of subjects including anatomy, astronomy, botany, cartography, and palaeontology.

Australia's Top 10 Tourist Destinations

With the land down under oozing enchanting beauty everywhere you lay your eyes on, it has proven very hard to narrow down to only 10 tourist attractions. Nonetheless, we have listed below the top 10 tourist destinations you can’t miss on your trip to Australia.

Balancing spirituality and social media in the digital age

Ramadan, the blessed month for Muslims globally, allows us to introspect and break out of habits that do not add any value to our life but rather cause damage. Many people look forward to Ramadan as a golden opportunity to break out of their habit of smoking and live a healthier lifestyle. In this digital age, many of us are addicted to our phones and various social media apps. So, what more of an auspicious time can you have than now to break out of your smartphone addiction?

Fashion trends you will be seeing everywhere in 2023

As we prepare to bid adieu to an eventful 2022, it is time to buckle up for the brand-new year ahead of us, and what better way to treat yourself for the upcoming year than with a little closet restock? Below, we bring to you the dominating trends of the upcoming year for you to stock up on and remain as fashionable as ever.

How to build a capsule wardrobe

If you have been following the fashion influencer or the lifestyle influencer scene on the Internet in the past few years, you must have come across the term “capsule wardrobe”. Below, we describe everything there is to know about capsule wardrobes for both men and women, including the steps to developing a capsule wardrobe and items to purchase.

Breaking down the fashion calendar: Suiting up for Spring 2023

The month of September is beloved by fashion lovers and fashionistas worldwide as fashion weeks take place around the world. This year, the Spring/Summer 2023 season fashion weeks started in New York City with the New York Fashion Week on 9 September, 2022. But, if you are wondering why Spring shows are taking place in September, the month we transition to fall, then you are not alone. The fashion calendar can be confusing so read ahead as we demystify it for you.

Grecian grace in vogue: Inspiration from ancient Greece takes centre stage in the latest fashion trends

It is no mystery that ancient Greece has been an inspiration for every aspect of culture globally, whether it be literature, art, sports, or fashion. Taking cue from the rich history of this Mediterranean country, Grecian drapes have once again become fashionable.

Is Bangladesh friendly enough for startups? An analysis

Startups! You probably come across this word everywhere, whether on television, in newspapers, or on the Internet. Thanks to the power of globalisation, the air of startup culture has reached Bangladesh as well. But is the business environment in Bangladesh hospitable enough to start and push a startup towards success? Do the start-up founders and their respective teams have a good support system to help them thrive?

Ways to cut bad cholesterol

A balanced level of cholesterol is necessary for the body to build and maintain cells. Trying to reduce your excess cholesterol comes with added perks like better physical health, mental health, and a healthier lifestyle. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cholesterol levels should be checked every 5 years after hitting the age of 20. Here are some ways you can keep your cholesterol levels in check. Follow these tips and lead a better, more active, healthy, and fulfilled life.

Going abroad for studies? Here are some things you should know

Things to know before going to study abroad

Studying abroad is a dream for many. And if you are a lucky one getting to fulfil that dream, well first of all congratulations! You have some wonderful and exciting times ahead of you. Going abroad to study all by yourself can be daunting and overwhelming. Below, we break down all the preparation steps for people who are planning to go abroad as well as students who are all set to leave soon.

Going abroad for studies? Here are some things you should know

Going abroad for studies is exciting, adventurous, and daunting. Despite how challenging and hard it may feel at times, going abroad for studies is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences in life, broadening your outlook and horizon.

Coronary heart disease – things you must know

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death globally. Study shows that with certain precautions, one can significantly lower the risk of having a heart attack. A description of the causes, symptoms, preventive measures and other important facts about heart diseases has been provided below.

Thrifting, another word for second-hand shopping, is a new way to shop for clothes globally.

Everything you need to know about thrift shopping

Thrifting, another word for second-hand shopping, is slowly becoming the new norm of clothing consumption globally.

Online vs offline shopping in Bangladesh: A look into a post pandemic debate

With the rapid rise of technology, the hectic schedules of our lives compounded with COVID-19, the popularity of online shopping has been soaring through the roof.

Sleepovers simplified: How to make your sleepover a memorable night

Sleepovers, also known as slumber parties and pyjama parties, are social occasions where friends stay overnight at another friend’s house.

Trinket shopping in Dhaka: The perfect jewellery shopping guide

Navigating the online market for high-end jewellery

Sunglasses you must own

As far as accessories go, sunglasses are timeless. They have the magical power to instantly make anyone look chicer and more stylish. Below, we discuss some must-have styles of sunglasses in an attempt to help you navigate the plethora of styles available.

How to layer your winter clothes

Layering, in simple terms, means to dress up using multiple garments that are worn on top of each other. Despite being tricky and daunting, layering does allow for a lot of creative freedom and room for experimentation.

How to jazz up your chocolate drink

A piping hot mug of classic hot chocolate is the perfect, heart-warming drink for these cold days in the winter season.

Bangladesh and the Commonwealth of Nations: A Boost in Economy

In 1972, when Bangladesh joined the Commonwealth as its 34th Member, the country was still in its infant stage struggling with a war-torn economy and a ravaged infrastructure due to the aftermath of the War of Independence. Over time, Bangladesh attained tremendous development on its economic front.