Rakshanda Rahman Misha

Hollywood’s double-standard on Palestine: Why censor one side altogether?

Israel’s blatant human rights violations in Gaza, Hollywood appears to be deeply divided. While some speak out against the ongoing violence and the loss of innocent Palestinian lives, others label pro-Palestinian voices as “antisemitic” — referring to hatred toward Jews. As a result, several celebrities — including Melissa Barrera and Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon — have faced backlash from Hollywood studios, with some even being fired or dropped by their agencies for expressing pro-Palestinian sentiments.

6d ago

Pritom’s reign ever-expanding

From back-to-back cinematic musical hits to earning praise for his acting on OTT platforms, Pritom Hasan is having a standout year. His collaboration with Shakib Khan and chart-topping tracks like “Chand Mama”, “Didha”, and the ever lively “Laage Ura Dhura” have solidified his reputation as one of the most sought-after musicians in Dhallywood.

1w ago

Bangladesh’s Ahassan Uddin features in French movie

Ahassan's path to acting began unexpectedly with modeling. "In 2023, I participated in the Mr. Franco Desi contest, featuring participants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. I won the title, and soon after, I started receiving offers for ramp shows," he revealed. Initially disinterested, he joined primarily for the talent segment, eager to showcase his passion for dance. "Dancing is something I’m passionate about, and when I saw that I’d have a platform to showcase it, I thought, why not?"

1m ago

Chattogram’s Arka Das making a mark in Australia

With over a decade of experience as a writer, director, and actor in Australian television and film, he has cultivated an impressive career. From working alongside Dev Patel in “Lion” to sharing the screen with Brett Lee in “UNindian”, he consistently showcases his talent both in front of and behind the camera.

1m ago

Faria Hossain: Bangladesh’s pioneering female director

With over 17 years’ experience in journalism, Faria has closely observed the entertainment industry. She has written more than 300 dramas and authored over 1,000 articles. Throughout her journalistic career, she has interviewed thousands of celebrities, but one of her most memorable interviews was with the legendary actress Shabana Azmi.

2m ago

A romance that defies ‘death’

This line perfectly defines what “Ghumpori” is all about—a tale of endless love that will make you cry and smile, yet still leave you longing for the kind of love Megh (Pritom Hasan) has for Jyoti (Tanjin Tisha). It's a love story that defies logic and makes you question how one can fall in love with someone they've never met and dedicate their entire life to fulfilling their dreams.

2m ago

Bangladeshi Adit Dewan among 12 individuals picked for Dutch film fellowship

Bangladeshi filmmaker Adit Dewan has been selected as one of the 12 young directors and artistes from across the globe to receive the prestigious Moving Narratives Fellowship under the Netherlands-based Prince Claus Fund.

2m ago

The rise of Rizu

In becoming one with his character, Rizvi Rizu often pushes himself to the point of injury. “In ‘Feu’, I had a fight scene where I had to run at full speed through a forest, and the sharp leaves pierced my feet. In ‘Waqt’, I severely injured my thumb while holding a saw incorrectly. My thumb was on the body of the saw, and when I turned it on, it started moving and tore my skin. I suffered for 15-20 days, and everyone was terrified,” he recalled.

2m ago
September 12, 2024
September 12, 2024

Actors Equity Bangladesh: Members call for leadership overhaul

During the anti-discrimination student movement, questions arose about the role of Actors Equity Bangladesh, the professional organisation of television actors in the country.

September 5, 2024
September 5, 2024

‘Forget Me Not’ is personal for me: Yash Rohan

From portraying the student leader Sagor in “Obujh Pakhi” to playing Fahim in “Forget Me Not”, Yash Rohan is establishing himself as a versatile actor in dramas and on OTT platforms through his diverse character choices.

August 14, 2024
August 14, 2024

What good is fame, if I can't speak for the people: Badhan

As the rain soaked her through, cascading like tears from a grieving sky, it did nothing to dampen the searing fury and sorrow that burned deeply in her heart on that day. Adorned in a black salwar kameez with a bright red scarf draped around her neck, her eyes blazed with fierce determination as she denounced the horrific acts sanctioned by the tyrannical regime.

August 11, 2024
August 11, 2024

From rockstar to ‘jharudar’, no work is small for exemplary musicians

Music played a pivotal role in inspiring the nation to rise against the fascist and autocratic regime of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. From Shezan’s stirring “Kotha Ko” to Hannan’s powerful “Awaaz Utha Bangladesh”, the youth united in a quest for democracy against a corrupt government. 

July 31, 2024
July 31, 2024

One bullet, two lives and endless agony

Life had just begun for 19-year-old Jisan Ahmed, a small-time vendor who supplied water to shops in his neighbourhood from his battery-run cycle-van.

July 27, 2024
July 27, 2024

Television thrives amidst internet outage: Can it keep its viewers?

While the internet was down, TV ratings skyrocketed. Most TV channels have confirmed that their ratings have doubled, although they couldn't provide actual figures as data couldn't be gathered physically. How did they assume their content was reaching the audience? The answer lies in the constant stream of advertisement breaks.

July 24, 2024
July 24, 2024

Influencers left without influence after internet outage

If your livelihood was based on the internet, specifically social media, what would you do if there was an outage that lasted almost a week? We caught up to some popular Bangladeshi influencers to see what they were up to during these unstable times.

July 10, 2024
July 10, 2024

Sy Huq: Bangladeshi origin producer making it big in Japan

Sy Huq, a young filmmaker, has become the first Bangladeshi-American creative executive in Japan’s anime industry. He secured a prestigious role at D’ART Shtajio, Japan’s first Black-owned anime studio, and boasts a reputation as a four-time Oscar-qualified director and producer. Intrigued by his backstory and what inspired him to pursue filmmaking, I wanted to learn more about his journey.

July 6, 2024
July 6, 2024

Dhvani in Dhaka: Indian YouTube sensation eager for Bangladeshi concert

The vibrant singer was recently in Dhaka for a two-day trip, during which she spoke exclusively with the Daily Star about her music and her strong desire to perform a concert in Dhaka.

June 26, 2024
June 26, 2024

Most-talked about Eid dramas with heartfelt stories

These dramas featured unconventional plots that captivated audiences, addressing important topics like depression and the sacrifices involved in giving up a beloved animal.