Life & Living

Life & Living

Your go-to guide for Eid makeup!

Blessed are we to have another beautiful month of Ramadan. Indeed, it is the most wonderful time of the year when we are in our kindest, nicest selves. And to go with that kind, pious self our faces must reflect the inner glow that is within us for the grand finale — Eid!

1d ago

Flower magic!

People have held a perennial fascination for flowers. While most do not see its allure beyond beauty and fragrance, some have been known to be inexorably drawn to these natural marvels despite their apparent lack of functionality. The question is, why?

1d ago

Hair clips are back!

In the world of fashion, hair clips are staging a comeback. From understated elegance to extravagant flair, they offer limitless styling options. Read on for some of the hottest trends in hair accessories that inspire fresh looks this summer.

2d ago

Discovering authentic Bangladeshi cuisine with Alec Paterson in London

Alec Paterson is the CEO of Dotlines Food, which is a part of the parent company Dotlines. The company has three startups that are currently active, ranging from curries, teas, and most notable, pickles. As it stands right now, his main aim is to bring the rich and undoubtedly extravagant Bangladeshi cuisine to the competitive food culture of London.

2d ago

Brand yourself boldly: The digital blueprint for personal success

Self-branding has been a part of the marketing ecosphere for a long time now, but with the advent of the digital era, priorities have shifted and a digital presence is of utmost necessity nowadays. With more recruiters and employers turning to online platforms to vet candidates, digital branding has been more than just a buzzword in a conversation.

3d ago

Boo Boo World: Where fun knows no bounds!

Step into the vibrant space of Boo Boo World, where adventure and excitement await around every corner! Nestled in the heart of Chattogram, on SS Khaled Road in the Jamalkhan area, this magical entertainment club is every child's dream come true.

2d ago

#Perspective / Beyond the screen: The search for genuine friendship in a digital world

Living in this digital era, we are compelled to ask — does the number of friends really mean more than the quality of a friendship?

3d ago

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.

4d ago
Arts & Entertainment

Arts & Entertainment

'Squid Game' star found guilty of sexual misconduct

South Korea's "Squid Game" actor O Yeong-su has been found guilty of sexual misconduct, a local court said Friday, after he was charged with assaulting a woman in 2017

4d ago

Now, you can have Trump sneakers

Donald Trump has launched his own sneaker brand, a day after a New York judge ordered him to pay $354.9m in penalties for fraudulently overstating his net worth to dupe lenders.

4w ago

Being a woman is just such a war, forever: Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish, the Grammy-winning and Oscar-nominated artiste, has recently opened up about the relentless challenges she faces as a woman, particularly as a young woman in the public eye.

A new thriller arrives in ‘Shyama Kabya’, stars hopeful

The much-anticipated psychological thriller, Badrul Anam Saud’s “Shyama Kabya” is set to release in the theaters of Bangladesh on November 24.

Tisha and Farooki’s daughter debuts in ‘Autobigraphy’s’ song ‘Jochonar Phool’

The song, titled “Jochonar Phool”, is written by Chirkutt frontline Sharmin Sultana Sumi and she jointly tuned and composed it with the songwriter and Chirkutt member Pavel Areen. The latter also produced the song. Mostofa Sarwar Farooki himself released the song on Wednesday through his Facebook profile.

21 personalities to get Ekushey Padak 2024

The government yesterday announced the recipients of Ekushey Padak 2024 upon 21 distinguished citizens in recognition of their momentous contributions in various fields of the nation.

Sharmila Tagore calls on PM

A delegation of artistes led by eminent Indian film actress Sharmila Tagore today paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official Gono Bhaban residence in Dhaka this afternoon marking the Dhaka International Film Festival

I aspire to become an actor for whom directors will eagerly line up: Ashna Habib Bhabna

Ashna Habib Bhabna, a popular actress, is gearing up for the grand releases of two of her films, “Japito Jibon”, directed by Habibul Islam Habib, and “Daam Para”, directed by Shuddhyaman Chaitan. The actress, known for captivating television audiences, hasn't worked in TV dramas for over three years, fully immersing herself in her movie roles.

Showbiz

Showbiz

Partho’s cricketing dreams transform into a filmy one

During an exclusive photoshoot and adda with The Daily Star, Partho talked about his acting and directorial journey while also spilling some beans on upcoming projects.

3d ago

The ‘bad guy’ emerges as ‘hero’

Recently, he shed his ‘greyish demeanour’ to penetrate into the role of a love-torn groom in Zahid Pritom’s “Buk Poketer Golpo”. The actor shared an interesting story as to how his own phobia was incorporated into the hyper-linked web-film.

1w ago

Pavel brings globality to your ‘living room’

You might know him as the drummer for Chirkutt, but Pavel has been especially prominent in the music industry as a music producer, dominating the ad film market and lending his talents to films like “Saturday Afternoon”, “Television”, “Doob”, “Piprabidya” and more.

2w ago

Nawshaba undeterred, Nawshaba undeniable

Nawshaba's journey has not been devoid of challenges. Despite her talent and dedication, she has often found herself being overlooked by the media and industry insiders. “How many times do I have to prove myself?" she mused, highlighting the uphill battle faced by many artistes striving to carve out their niche in the industry. 

When a boy from Azimpur carries Bangladeshi rap

In the world of Bangla rap, few names carry as much weight and influence as Black Zang. His journey, intricately entwined with the rise of Bangla rap culture, is a testament to artistic evolution, cultural amalgamation, and the power of storytelling through music. In the vibrant and ever-evolving realm of hip-hop music, Black Zang stands out as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

The team that made ‘Ashomvob’ possible

Yesterday (November 3), Aruna Biswas’s debut directorial film, "Ashomvob", was released nationwide. In this multi-starrer project, the veteran actress not only directed the film but also played a pivotal role. The cast includes outstanding performances by Sohana Saba, Gazi Nur, and Swagata, amongst many others.

What makes Karnival stand out?

Karnival started as a passion project between friends Tinu, Sabbir, Tonmoy and Sunny in 2006. Together, they made their debut album, “Indraloy.”

The grandest OTT extravaganza hosts its second iteration

The awards will be handed out tonight at a lavish event at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC), in the Hall of Fame, from 5 pm onwards.

Star Health

Star Health

Dengue: 20 more hospitalised

At least 20 dengue patients were hospitalised across the country in the last 24 hours till this morning

20h ago

33 new Covid cases reported in 24 hours

At least 20 dengue patients were hospitalised across the country in the last 24 hours till today morning

21h ago

Watermelon price beyond consumers’ reach

Despite a good supply of watermelons in Patuakhali markets, consumers are not able to buy the seasonal fruit due to high price. It is one of the most sought after fruits during Ramadan.

1d ago

Prof Deen Md Nurul Haque appointed BSMMU VC

Renowned ophthalmologist Prof Deen Md Nurul Haque has been appointed as the new vice-chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).

1w ago

Prioritise medical research over private practice, PM tells doctors

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged doctors in the country to devote more time to research in medical science by reducing the time they spend on private practice

1w ago

Milk, eggs and meat to be sold at lower prices at 30 points in capital

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock will set up 30 points in the capital to sell milk, eggs, meat, and fish at affordable prices throughout the month of Ramadan

1w ago

Nourishing adolescents to build a smart future generation

The Smart Bangladesh Vision by 2041 set a new target for Bangladesh, and the Perspective Plan 2021–2041 defined the economic and social targets.

1w ago

Dengue meanest this lean period

The number of dengue cases recorded this January and February is higher compared to the first two months of the previous 23 years, raising the spectre of another deadly outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease.

1w ago
Satireday

Satireday

Organisations tackle inflation squeeze by introducing ‘Pay-To-Work’ policy

February has passed but employees at several major business firms have still not received any yearly increment or contract renewal. Employees are having difficulty making ends meet, what with rice and essentials doubling in price. Transport costs have gone up even though diesel price has been reduced by Tk 0.75.

3d ago

Seeking affordable dates, Bangladeshi opens Tinder account

A man from Basabo has opened a Tinder account after he learned from one of his friends that dates on Tinder and Bumble were more attainable than in the current market.

3d ago

Chintito since 1995 / Truth shall prevail

And so now the Pope is wrong because he is calling for peace and trying to save lives. He advised Ukraine to show the “white flag”, which other than meaning surrender is also a symbol of peace.

3d ago

Twisted thoughts, warped words, and despicable deeds

You have all been invited for “daal-bhaat to a gorib’s house” by (surprise, surprise) a well-to-do host. Obviously, he is far from being poor. Or else, he would not have invited you.

2w ago

Things you can do when the internet is down

Due to maintenance work going on today on a submarine cable that brings us internet, connectivity will be disrupted for 12 hours between 7:00am and 7:00pm.

2w ago

When readers write / ‘We’re land optimisers, not grabbers’

In the bustling world of business, a group of savvy businessmen - the Real Estate Federation – were found scratching their heads in utter amazement.

2w ago

Chintito since 1995 / This land is not for sale

The present landlords have been living on their land, happily, merrily, for eons with their elders and children.

Satire / Dhaka man loves metro rail so much that it’s affecting his relationship

The MRT-6 running at near full service has changed the lives of millions of Dhakaites. But for one Mirpur man, the changes have reached his home and private life.

TOGGLE

TOGGLE

The iPhone 15 Pro's camera can be a true game changer

The recent launch of Apple's iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max has set the tech world abuzz, and for good reason. While the device is teeming with top-tier features, it is the camera that truly commands attention. Offering a set of functionalities that can rival some professional cameras, Apple's latest offering is not just an incremental upgrade; it's a significant leap forward from its predecessors, particularly the iPhone 14 Pro.

Editor's Note / Embracing the inevitable

And thus, we invite our readers to embark on the next exhilarating journey with Tech & Startup!

So long, goodbye

The sun may set, but the journey never truly ends. Stay tuned for our next adventure!

Bytes / Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: The ultimate ultra

Samsung's latest flagship, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, takes centre stage as a powerful contender in the smartphone market. While some might argue that the design changes are subtle and the price tag is on the higher side, there's no denying that this device excels in certain key areas, especially when it comes to photography.

Cover Story / Every end marks a new beginning

To our readers, thank you for your unwavering support and loyalty. We invite you to join us in embracing this new beginning and be a part of the exciting journey that lies ahead. Together, let us explore the endless possibilities that technology and startups offer, celebrating the innovative spirit that drives us all.

Huawei completes 25 years in Bangladesh

Huawei, the multinational technology corporation, has recently completed 25 years in Bangladesh. The organisation held a celebration event on 20 July, where they thanked their partners and stakeholders for years of support. 

Safeguarding workspaces from escalating cyber attacks: A comprehensive guide

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how organisations can safeguard their data, secure their employees' information, prevent cyber attacks, and respond effectively in case of a breach.

The setting sun

With that, let’s join hands in hopes of a brighter future. Keep in mind that everytime the sun sets, the promise of a better tomorrow awaits. A new journey is always right around the corner. 

In Focus

In Focus

45th Death Anniversary of Abul Mansur Ahmad / The enduring impact of Abul Mansur Ahmad’s journalism

The year 2023 marked the centennial of Abul Mansur Ahmad’s journalism—a milestone that holds not only significance but also relevance in understanding his enduring impact.

1d ago

In the Name of Lalon

In a jungle by a wide river bank, a small group is sitting amongst the dangling roots of a luscious banyan tree. The single-stringed ektara, four-stringed dotara, wood-bead necklace mala, hand-spunned bright-coloured cotton gamccha and white outfits identify the members as Bauls, the traditional mystic musicians of Bangladesh.

1w ago

Bangladesh and 1971

Listen, from one Mujibur/ A thousand Mujib’s voices rise/ The sounds and echoes of those voices/ Ring out through the wind and the sky/ Bangladesh, my Bangladesh…. 

2w ago

Sharing of Ganges water: What looms after 2026?

In 1976, a mass procession led by a nearly 80-year-old peasant leader, Maulana Bhasani, from Dhaka to the Indo-Bangladesh Border drew huge attention from national and international media.

4w ago

Vangiya Sahitya Parishat, the first Bengal Academy of Literature

‘Academy’, as many of us know, is a word that comes from the French word ‘academie’, evolving from Latin ‘academia’—the ultimate ancestor of both being Greek ‘akademeia’.

A Call for Bengali Language Outreach

Apparently, Bengali (or Bangla) is the seventh spoken language in the world by population. By some statistics, its position is sixth, and even fifth in another! I am not elated by this because the number of speakers of a language does not demonstrate its acceptance nor its popularity, globally or locally.

Politics and Archaeology of Ayodhya

British administrator and archaeologist Alexander Cunningham, who served as the first director-general of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), founded in 1861, conducted the first archaeological survey in 1862-1863, followed by the second one in 1889-1891.

Global South and global North

Both my parents had been actively engaged in the struggle for the liberation of Algeria from French colonialism. A few months after its independence, we left France to live in Algiers, sharing the house with two Algerian families whose women, Fatima and Jima, were like other mothers to me.

Star Youth

Star Youth

Why on earth would someone drink black coffee?

A personal hypothesis of mine is that black coffee drinkers possess, to an extent, a latent self-loathing that manifests in the form of gustatory masochism.

3d ago

Why we want to stay sad and how to move past it

The memes are great, and they help us cope. But we need to move forward.

3d ago

Two Bangladeshis honoured at The Diana Award

Bangladesh's Nafira Nayeem Ahmad and Shamim Ahmed Mridha were honoured with the Legacy Award.

4d ago

Proper nutrition and exercise: The uncanny super-weapons for academic excellence

Allow me to tell you who the villains in your life are.

2w ago

Is Gen-Z really ageing faster than earlier generations?

Companies quickly multiplied this awareness and fear, packaged it, and sold it back to us.

2w ago

Footsteps Co-Founder and President receives Youth Leaders Award

Footsteps Co-Founder and President Shah Rafayat Chowdhury has received the Global Citizen Youth Leaders Award.

3w ago

Celebrating Galentine’s Day on a budget

The spirit of Valentine's Day isn't just reserved for romantic partners – it's also about cherishing all forms of love, including platonic love.

The struggles of being older than your peers

For most students, having a close group of friends from childhood, especially with varying ages, ensures that they never end up feeling very different for their own age.

Shift

Shift

Chinese company launches commercial flying taxis

EHang, a Chinese drone manufacturer, has introduced its EH216-S model flying taxi for commercial sale on Taobao, an online shopping platform owned by Alibaba. Priced at 2.39 million yuan ($332,060), the EH216-S is being advertised as "an innovative solution for urban transportation".

6h ago

Lamborghini designer Marcello Gandini dies at 85

Marcello Gandini, the legendary Italian designer known for his work on numerous exotic cars, has died at the age of 85, according to RaiNews, Italy's state-owned news agency.

5d ago

Vehicle insurance to be made mandatory

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has today approved the draft Road Transport Amendment Act, 2024, reinstating mandatory insurance for all types of vehicles operating on the roads, including motorcycles, private cars, buses, and trucks. The decision revises the Road Transport Act of 2018, which had made vehicle insurance optional.

5d ago

Meet the flying car prototype

Alef Aeronautics, a California-based automotive company, has recently unveiled a prototype for what they claim to be 'the world's first true flying car'. The company took a working scale model of this innovative prototype to the recently held Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, capturing the attention of the public and industry enthusiasts alike.

2w ago

BYD launches electric cars in Bangladesh; opens showroom

BYD, the multinational tech company, officially opened its showroom in Bangladesh on March 2, 2024. According to a press release, CG Runner Bangladesh Ltd. has taken the initiative to introduce BYD in the country.

2w ago

Proton to make cars in Bangladesh by end-2024

Rancon and Proton Holdings have unveiled the Proton X90 hybrid vehicle in the Bangladesh market. In a launching ceremony today, Rancon and Proton also announced their joint plans to begin local manufacturing of Proton cars in Bangladesh by the end of this year.

2w ago

Apple stops electric car project: report

Apple has stopped work on 'Project Titan', the tech giant's electric car project, according to a source familiar with the matter. The decision comes a decade after the reputed tech company begun the project, despite no official announcement being made thus far.

2w ago

Toyota announces anime series 'GRIP'

Toyota, the reputed automotive manufacturer, has recently announced that it is launching a new anime series. Called 'GRIP', the five-episode series will feature several popular Toyota cars such as the GR Corolla, the Renaissance Red 2.0 GR Supra, and the GR86 in a futuristic city setting.

4w ago
Daily Star Books

Daily Star Books

EVENT REPORT / A flowing conversation at Dhaka Flow Festival 2024

On the midday of a warm spring, Dhaka Flow Fest 2024 organised a delightful reading session at Baridhara Lakeside Rajuk Park with authors Farah Ghuznavi, Neeman Sobhan, Salahdin Imam, and Nahiyan Ameen

19h ago

BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / ‘Father of the Nation Bangabandhu’ marries the art of Japanese storytelling with the rich tapestry of Bangladesh’s history

A review of 'Father of the Nation Bangabandhu' (NRB Scholars, 2024) by ME Chowdhury Shameem and Iwamoto Keita

1d ago

BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / The ‘new oil’ transforming the world

Chip War, a highly praised book written by Chris Miller who teaches International history at Tuft University’s Fletcher School, USA, is a New York Times bestseller.

5d ago

BOOK REVIEW: NON FICTION / Designing our past and for our future

The author, architect Tanwir Nawaz, besides expressing his thoughts, ideas, and artistic struggles within a body of professional works, has poured his emotions and nostalgic memories into Exploring the World of Architecture and Design.

5d ago

BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / A country coming to life

Weaving the grand themes of politics and history, the book is a revelation into how the ordinary lives within a country are buffeted by constant changes.

5d ago

EVENT REPORT / ‘Untranquil Recollections’: Revisiting the past with Professor Rehman Sobhan

On March 9, 2024, University Press Limited (UPL) hosted a discussion with Professor Rehman Sobhan, moderated by Dr Akhter Mahmood, on the two volumes of 'Untranquil Recollections'

6d ago

BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Stories of survivorship, courage, and hope for a country that cares

A closer look into these stories reveal reasons why cancer continues to be dreaded—it is not just fear of the malady itself, but also the challenges of undergoing treatment through an overburdened healthcare system and its exorbitant costs.

6d ago

EVENT REPORT / ‘Living Letters’ with Iffat Nawaz: A shared journey towards resolution and emotional clarity

On March 5, 2024, the writer held the inaugural session of her writing workshop series, “Living Letters”, at The Daily Star Centre in collaboration with Goethe Institut Bangladesh, Sister Library, and Star Books and Literature

1w ago
Star Holiday

Star Holiday

Al Ula: A hidden gem in Saudi Arabia

When we think of Saudi Arabia, we often imagine Makkah, Medina, and the annual pilgrimage. But beyond these, there are plenty of amazing spots that have been attracting travellers since the kingdom opened up to foreign visitors in 2019.

3w ago

Skywalk on Dhampus

As the clock struck 4:00pm, I caught sight of two tiny figures descending from the rocky slopes of the Tukuche massif. With each passing minute, the figures gradually grew more recognizable: Samiur and Arif were returning after scaling Little Tukuche (5879m), one of the formidable peaks of the Dhaulagiri range.

Pondicherry: A charming former French colony

I boarded the Koromondol Express from Kolkata to Chennai at 3.20pm for a long journey. On my way, I met Anupam, an old friend from the Sandakfu-Phalut trek. It had been ten years since we last met.

Rema-kalenga wildlife forest: A sanctuary of souls

Recently, I went on a trip to the Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary: a hidden gem often overlooked even by seasoned travellers. This is the story of my solo trip there.

Seven continents, 100 countries

We have been to places.

Scaling Mount Saramati

We reached Pungro, a small town in northern Nagaland’s Kiphire district, late at night after covering about three and a half hundred kilometres on a dusty, winding mountain road. With no lodges available, the car driver took us to a government rest house. However, as foreigners from Bangladesh, we were told we needed permission from the zone’s additional district commissioner. 

Trek to Sandakphu

We had no idea that we slept away the past twelve hours, the whole journey from Kolkata to Siliguri.

Tanguar Haor: A magical place worth revisiting

While chatting with my seniors at a cafe in Purana Paltan, Tipu bhai casually mentioned that he was going to Sunamganj to visit Tanguar Haor with a travel group. Since I had never been there, I asked him to include me in the team. Tipu bhai agreed.

Weekend Read

Weekend Read

Life takes place in Dhaka’s cafes

How  humans discovered coffee and how, after centuries of innovation, it  became the elixir it is now is a fascinating tale itself.

3d ago

Islampur: a business hub with centuries-old vibe

If listened carefully, amid the maddening hustle and bustle, cacophony of sounds, one might find a strange harmony in the chaos -- a thing that links this place to a bygone era.

1w ago

Rediscovering Traditions: Putting folk arts, crafts at the forefront

Wooden dolls painted in a crimson-red or saffron-yellow sari with a black hair bun are a traditional craft of Bangladesh and an integral part of every rural fair.

2w ago

To be able to dream again

At first glance it looks like a happy gathering of women and girls spanning ages from 15 to 50 years. We are greeted by this group of 30 and they welcome us with a song and dance routine.

3w ago

Safe but not free

For the last five years 19-year-old Sumona (pseudonym) has been living at the Training and Rehabilitation Centre for Socially Disadvantaged Women in Barishal.

3w ago

Karwan Bazar / Where night never sleeps and market is always open

As the night gets deeper and Dhaka goes to sleep, one place pulsates with energy -- Karwan Bazar kitchen market.

Ahsan Manzil / A palace by the river

Leave behind the tangled streets and chaotic symphony of Old Dhaka for a while. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a different era, stepping onto a gilded boat that glides through the sun-dappled Buriganga.

The wondrous world of rooftop gardening

Perhaps, there is a hidden farmer in all of us. Although suppressed under the urban rat race, many secret gardeners have decided they will create a garden, however small, within the confines of their buildings.

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