Life & Living
5 of Meghalaya's natural wonders: Waterfalls, living bridges, and more!
Though there are plenty of tourist attractions to explore in Meghalaya, here are 5 mesmerising places you just can’t miss!
How to cope with reader’s block
Reading and writing go hand in hand. And perhaps that’s why, just like there’s writer’s block, there’s also readers block. Only reader’s block is probably worse because reading is easier than writing, yet you just can’t do it.
Dodging death and mischievous monkeys: Ikramul Hasan Shakil’s epic journey
Ikramul Hasan Shakil, a trekker whose love of the outdoors and sense of adventure is only matched by his tenacity. He is the first mountaineer from Bangladesh to leave his mark on the "Great Himalayan Trail," beginning his arduous trek on 1 August, 2022, from Hilsa town, which is located at the northwest border of Nepal and Tibet.
Optimizely Dhaka: A hi-tech wonderland that redefines workplace culture
Welcome to Optimizely's state-of-the-art office in Dhaka, a space that's as intricate as a mural and as dynamic as the city itself. This isn't just an office; it's a canvas that narrates Optimizely's journey from its inception to its current glory.
Forgive, forget, and find peace: 5 timeless lessons from Confucius
Confucius was a famous teacher and philosopher. His ideas have not only influenced the people of China, his birthplace, but people all over the world were and still are inspired by his words. Here are 5 things you can learn from the sayings of Confucius.
7 movies that make you want to pack your bags and travel
If you are looking for your next travel inspiration, here are 7 movies that inspire us to travel.
Too shy to brand yourself? Here are 4 reasons to build your personal brand
Personal branding is exactly like making sure your digital tools are super sharp. Not everyone has access to these tools; but the real question is: Are yours sharp enough to kill (land the opportunity)?
Perspective / Solo travel: Journey to self-discovery and empowerment
Danny Amin, a businessman by profession and a nomad at heart, has now travelled to a number of countries, across various continents. Among his most notable expeditions lie London, Paris, Barcelona, Lisbon, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Kenya, and Malaysia.
Arts & Entertainment
Former gang leader charged with Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder
A former gang leader was charged Friday with the 1996 murder of rap legend Tupac Shakur, whose shooting death rocked the music world and exposed the violent underbelly of the popular gangsta rap genre
Khilgaon street named in honour of Fakir Alamgir
The enduring memory of the legendary folk singer Fakir Alamgir will now be etched forever in the very streets he called home. Today, on the second death anniversary of this eminent musician, Road No 6 of Chowdhurypara in Khilgaon has officially inaugurated as "Fakir Alamgir Road" in presence of Dhaka North City Corporation Mayor, Md Atiqul Islam.
'No intention to insult': BTS star RM addresses 'Bad Religion' controversy
Yesterday, BTS leader RM went live on Weverse to explain his stance on the "Bad Religion" controversy. Earlier this month, the popular rapper shared Frank Ocean's song, "Bad Religion", on his Instagram Stories.
A K Rahul bids farewell to band Trainwreck after 11 Years
Guitarist, drummer, and music composer A K Rahul has officially said goodbye to the band, Trainwreck after an incredible 11-year musical journey. Rahul took to Facebook to share this significant decision with his fans and followers.
The comfort of rereading old books
I often feel overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of new books that I still want to read—so many stories, so little time—and understand that this is an ambition that rereading can only delay.
Bangladeshi singer Shwapnil Shojib awarded ‘Best Rabindra Sangeet Artiste’ at Ananda Mela LA
With a deep understanding of Rabindranath's message, Shwapnil's melodious voice has managed to spread the charm of Rabindra Sangeet, not only in the hearts of Bangladeshi music lovers, but also to fans around the world.
Riverdale can be anytime, anywhere
Sweet, colourful, and funny, Archie comics were one of the only graphic narratives available for people who weren’t interested in superheroes and really gritty, edgy comics like Batman.
World Music Day / Scrounging revelations out of music
I don't remember at what point in life I learned to recognize the fallacy behind the not-like-other-girls phenomenon and discarded it for an all-encompassing love for female friendship and solidarity, in acceptance of femininity in all its forms. But I do know that Taylor Swift played a significant role in it.
Showbiz
Xefer remastered
Xefer first broke into the scene with her soulful covers, capturing hearts with her deep melodic voice. Over the years, she not only continued her musical journey but also emerged as a style and youth icon.
Jessia in action
"The character of agent Rupa drew me to the script. Her unbreakable spirit and her fight against crime captivated me," said Jessia Islam on her debut film "MR-9: Do or Die".
The enigmatic Tawsif
While Tawsif Mahbub does look forward to exploring streaming platforms and dreams of making it to the global stage, his current focus is solely on tele-productions.
Jumping from billboards to OTT
Borno was also featured in Chorki’s web-series “Mercules”, where she donned the role of Anamika. “Natasha and Anamika are two different types of personas. Anamika is an extrovert who loves her friends and enjoys her life to the fullest. On the other hand, Natasha's personality is very complex. She is ambitious and a workaholic.”
From ‘girl next door’ to multifaceted star: 10 years of Safa Kabir
The tenacious actor, Safa Kabir who has completed a decade in show business, wanted to be a fashion designer growing up.
Inside Saba's world
With dance being her first love, Sohana Saba gradually molded her inner artiste into different forms of arts—modelling, anchoring and prominently acting. The “Ayna” famed actor is expecting a couple of projects—“Oshombhob” and “Maniker Lal Kakra”, to be released soon. She dropped by The Daily Star for some coffee.
Dhaka’s burgeoning concert industry: Organisers scramble to find their niche
In a city where most youth are confined to social circle jerks of restaurants and malls; these concerts are much-needed injections of life. Whilst there is a risk of fatigue and overuse, as it is with any industry, it is important that organisers persevere and stick to what makes them unique.
From Santiniketan to ‘Shondhatara’
Destiny pushed Sunidhi towards Rabindra Sangeet, and her love for classical music took a back seat. Then “Shondhatara” came along and changed her life—her voice and cracking chemistry with Arnob captivated the audience.
Star Health
Hospital runs without inpatient service
The 50-bed Tarakanda Upazila Health Complex, which started its journey nearly two years ago, is yet to start providing inpatient service, causing immense sufferings to treatment seekers.
World Heart Day / Use heart, know heart
World Heart Day, celebrated on September 29th every year, provides an opportunity for the World Health Organisation (WHO) and its member states to join the global call to raise awareness about heart health and accelerate actions to prevent, detect, and manage cardiovascular diseases.
Missing teeth?
Tooth loss due to ageing, accidents, or decay can be a concern, but Osstem Implant, a renowned implant business in Korea offers a lasting solution, says a press release. They provide dental implants, a successful and popular method worldwide that replaces missing teeth with artificial ones without harming adjacent teeth. Osstem Implant, a global leader, offers dental equipment, IT services, education, and more, serving 90 countries.
Timing matters: morning and afternoon physical activity linked to lower type 2 diabetes risk
New research published in the journal Diabetologia reveals that the timing of physical activity during the day may influence the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Have a nice Day / When confidence becomes a disaster
Confidence is good and important, but when it crosses the borderline it becomes toxic called overconfidence and goes against the laws of nature. Individuals show many psychological biases, and one of the most powerful is overconfidence.
Evercare Hospital
Evercare Hospital Chattogram, a leading provider of world-class healthcare in Port City, recently organised a Special Patient Forum in the Department of Paediatric Cardiology on World Heart Day (2023), according to a press release.
Unprecedented focus on global public health at UN General Assembly
The World Health Organisation (WHO) urged leaders meeting at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York to put health for all on the highest political agenda and apply lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
MOMODa Foundation and RHSTEP team up for research on delaying early pregnancy in Gaibandha district
MOMODa Foundation, a research-based development organisation, has teamed up with an NGO, Reproductive Health Services Training and Education Programme (RHSTEP), to do groundbreaking research on “Delaying early pregnancy among adolescents in Gaibandha district, Bangladesh” according to a press release.
Satireday
Scientist invents instant transmission to alleviate VIP movement-related frustration
Dr Impossibru Patwary, a physicist working at the Chetona Innovation Labs at Palashi University, claims to have invented a device that can help individuals transmit their bodies instantly across short to medium distances.
Man cuts down on junk food only to be shunned by society
Society has once again done what it was created to do: shun the minority. Young Facebook reels entrepreneur Rayhan Haythere is upset because society has recently been upset with him.
He’s stealing my moves, cricket chief says after captain’s controversial interview
A recent TV interview by a current captain of a certain international cricket team has taken a drama-addicted fanbase by storm, and the chief of that particular country’s cricket board is insecure because he suspects the interview was a clear sign of the captain’s plan to take over his job.
New iPhone comes with more features, but nothing that makes you actually attractive
The radical iPhone 15 launched a week ago with features that boggled the mind of smartphone users a decade ago. Apple adopted the USB-C charger that was first seen in 2014 when China’s Le smartphone launched it. No one remembers because the powerpoint presentations were not as polished back then.
Additional brutality commissioner reprimanded for beating the wrong kind of people
The six-time-heavy-baton champion Additional Brutality Commissioner (ABC) Marum-Ek-Ghushi struck again (quite literally) and this time the blow unfortunately fell upon Chapasthan Young Men (CYM) members. The consequences were dire.
Satire / Bangladeshi toddler named in Shorbes 3 under 3
Azlazin Zafriath, a two-year-old from Dhaka, has been named in the prestigious Shorbes 3 under 3 2023 list.
Structure thought to be incomplete bridge was a completed shade all along
Ten years ago, construction of a bridge started over a fully functional road in the Kauwwasaki upazila of Bangladesh costing the people a hefty Tk 55 lakh. It stopped midway causing massive confusion, consternation and other difficult words to pop across the minds of IELTS students of that area.
Husband keeps making excuses to get on expressway, wife fed up
A wife in the capital has become exasperated following the opening of the elevated expressway as her husband refuses to take any other road, even though the expressway doesn’t yet serve the areas where they live or work.
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
The political origin of hunger in Bangladesh
Historical evidence suggests that almost every year before independence in 1971, present-day Bangladesh consistently grappled with a widespread shortage of food grains.
SOULS: Through the eyes of its founder, Sazed Ul Alam
I returned to Chattogram from the Liberation War on December 20, 1971 with my nephew,
At Home And In Foreign Lands / Syed Mujtaba Ali between Bengal and Afghanistan
Historically, Afghanistan, and its cities Kabul and Peshawar, were central in the Mughal imagination as the space where the idea of Hindustan took shape.
Reflecting on ‘Amar Dekha Rajnitir Ponchash Bochor’
As I delved into the autobiographical works of Abul Mansur Ahmad, it became evident that he had a penchant for plain speaking, avoiding embellishments.
The Portrayal and Relevance of Women in Kazi Nazrul Islam’s Novels
Kazi Nazrul Islam is our National Poet, but, in addition to writing poetry and composing songs, he also wrote fiction. In fact, Nazrul’s first publication was not poetry, but the short story “Baundeler Atmakahini” (The Autobiography of a Vagabond), published in Saogat in May 1919.
The many meanings of Partition 1947 and beyond
My memory is again in the way of your history. Agha Shahid Ali
100th Birth Anniversary of SM Sultan / My heart doesn’t desire to speak about Sultan
I had once written extensively about S.M. Sultan. Why? Because it felt essential to make our ‘art authorities’ aware that he was a rare talent, although many were unwilling to accept it. Thus, the pen became my last resort.
152nd Birth Anniversary of Abanindranath Tagore / “The Ever-Falling Darkness of History”
In the opening years of the twentieth century, Abanindranath Tagore (1871– 1951), Rabindranath’s nephew and a prominent artist living at the Tagore palazzo in Calcutta, Jorasanko, made a trio of paintings depicting the Emperor Shah Jahan (r. 1628–58) at different stages of his life, together with his great monument to love, the Taj Mahal.
Star Youth
Leisure time is not wasted time
We need to stop denigrating leisure as a waste of time or something to feel guilty about.
Bangladeshi activists join Global Climate Strike
The climate strike was held in Bangladesh is a part of the Global Climate Strike organised by Fridays for Future.
Making the jump from O level to A level
It only takes a few weeks into A levels for students to realise the stark difference between O and A levels.
Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park becomes Bangladesh's first free Bangla book reading destination
On September 9, Grow Your Reader Foundation (GYRF) celebrated a significant milestone with the inauguration of two new Book Garages in collaboration with Goofi at the Justice Shahbuddin Ahmed Park, Gulshan.
How independent learning can enhance the academic performance of university students
Independent learners can tailor their own pace and schedule of learning outside the classroom to work on their shortcomings.
Making a study playlist that works for you
A step-by-step guide to help you make your personalised study playlist.
Albums that feel like a goodbye
Here are some of the albums that you should listen to for processing the most bittersweet and complex of emotions – bidding goodbye.
Learning English: A guide that doesn’t involve books
Here’s a breakdown of a few other ways you can boost your English skills.
Shift
Avik Anwar conquers Malaysia Championship Series Round 4
Avik Anwar, the racing sensation from Bangladesh, has created history at the Malaysia Championship Series Round 4 by winning the 300-kilometer, 3-hour race entirely on his own. Out of 58 competitors, Avik emerged as the victor, becoming the first and only Bangladeshi to achieve this feat and the sole Bangladeshi to win on international soil in motorsports to date.
Decoding the EV craze: Are they just a hype?
The increasing impact of climate change and the impending consequences are often disregarded by a significant portion of the world's population. Despite discussions on this topic for over a few decades, there seems to be little progress in conveying the urgency of the situation. In general we know that Bangladesh, along with other low-lying countries, will sink due to climate change. As sea levels rise, these countries, including Bangladesh, will be submerged. The higher the sea level, the larger the affected area will be submerged or sink. It is difficult to quantify the exact extent of this impact. Today, we will not delve into the measurements of this impact, but rather focus on our collective understanding and the actions we are taking in response.
Mercedes-Benz buses now available in Bangladesh
Rancon Trucks and Buses Limited has recently launched the chassis for the Mercedes-Benz OF 1623 bus in Bangladesh. The chassis comes in two variants and is powered by Mercedes-Benz's OM 906 engine, which produces 6393 cc and 810 Nm @ 1600 RPM.
SHIFT / Car modification 101: What to know before revamping your ride
The excitement of owning your first car often comes with an itch to personalise it. Whether your goal is to improve performance or simply to make a style statement, the world of car modifications offers endless possibilities. However, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming for beginners. In this article, we outline some of the most effective and beginner-friendly modifications that enhance both aesthetics and drivability.
Country’s first electric vehicle manufacturing plant underway in Chattogram
Bangladesh is propelling itself into the future of sustainable transportation with a colossal investment in electric vehicle manufacturing. According to reports, Bangladesh Auto Industries Limited is investing Tk 1440 crore to build the country's first electric car factory. Located in Bangabandhu Shilpa Nagar Economic Zone in Mirsarai, Chattogram, the plant is set to roll out its first cars by March next year.
Caltex Lubricants partners with Bangladesh’s motorsports legend Avik Anwar
Bangladesh’s ace motorsports legend Avik Anwar recently struck a brand partnership deal with Rock Energy Limited, the exclusive distributor of Caltex & Chevron Lubricants in the country.
Solid-state batteries: the future of the EV industry?
Central to the recent rise of EVs is an ongoing competition between two battery technologies: solid-state batteries, which promise enhanced performance and safety, and traditional lithium-ion batteries, which have served as the workhorse of the EV industry.
BMW shifts focus to 'Neue Klasse' to compete with Tesla
BMW is revisiting its historical innovation, the "Neue Klasse," this time as an all-electric offering.
Daily Star Books
Essay / Snow White: A grim fairy tale
Before The Brothers Grimm published their version of the story, titled Sneewittchen, the original Italian folktale was about a mother’s envy and jealousy towards her own daughter.
Essay / Moezzi’s ‘The Rumi Prescription’ and Rumi’s relevance in this manic world
Rumi's spiritual and motivational verses not only empower us to confront life's frustrations and anxieties but also illuminate the path to genuine emotional fulfilment and inner peace.
OPINION / What you call your own
As an Anglophone writer in Bangladesh, I’ve frequently faced the rather inane question of why I write in English.
BOOK REVIEW: FICTION / Twistier than a jilapir pyatch
It’s a truism to say that modern life is complicated, but even a couple of decades ago, it would have been hard to predict the things we are dealing with today.
World Literacy Month / Media literacy and the case of overrated classics
In this digital age, we are processing a large amount of information everyday and it’s important to learn media literacy in order to see the bigger picture.
News report / The Hermitage Residency 2023 to be held free of cost at Srimangal
This year, the residency was thrilled to announce, attendance in all classes and workshops is free of cost in order to make their resources and networks accessible to everyone and to eliminate fees as a barrier to entry.
Book Review: Fiction / Western Lane: Grief unfolding on squash court
There is more squash in the book than most readers will take a liking to, but the game sometimes works as a metaphor for the bigger picture.
BOOK REVIEW: NONFICTION / Around the world in bookstores
Spectacular is the bookstore in Buenos Aires El Ateneo Grand Splendid; a former opera house built in 1903 and now shelved with books in a massive remodelling exercise.
Star Holiday
Heritage homes of Old Dhaka / A link to a bygone era
Would you believe if I say a heritage and architectural wonder of Dhaka is being used as a fire service station and home to dozens of families?
LONG READ / Yunnan province of China
One has to visit China to discover its incredible diversity and breathtaking beauty.
Kyrgyzstan: A tale of an eagle and a bond
The eagle man was waving at us; he wanted to tell us something. Our Kyrgyz driver was eager to start the 200 kilometres return journey to Bishkek after a day-long trip. However, we stopped to listen to what he had to say, and what we got remained the highlight of the tour.
Morocco: a timeless wonder
Nestled between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco unveils a treasure trove of vibrant colours, cultural heritage, and centuries-old traditions that captivate a traveller. From the mesmerising Sahara desert to picturesque beaches, majestic mountains, bustling souks, delectable cuisine, and enchanting riads, Morocco seamlessly blends the allure of bygone eras with the modern world.
Meghalaya land of majestic waterfalls
It was a hilly meandering road skirting the India-Bangladesh border. By-passing a dense betel nut orchard, our car was heading towards Syndai, a village of Meghalaya.
Around the world on a Vespa: The ‘no-plan’ nomadic life
For those of us wedded and welded to our routine-ruled existences, there is an almost jealous fascination about people like Vespanda Ilario Lavarra.
The Galapagos: The land of evolution
They say the beauty of the Galapagos can’t be explained. It can only be experienced.
The yellow days in Hanoi
When I visited Hanoi in 2019, I only had a chance to catch a whiff of Vietnam’s capital. I took a glance at all the splotches of yellow architecture in awe and had little to no idea how to navigate myself in a town that hardly communicated in English. But even then, Hanoi found a place of eternal fondness in my heart and gave me a gift of familiarity that I couldn’t make much sense of at the time.
Weekend Read
REVIVING 4 DSCC CANALS / Tk 898.73cr project yet to start after one year
It has been almost a year since the Dhaka South City Corporation approved a project to recover, re-excavate, and revive four major canals under its purview, but the authorities have yet to start the work.
Crack Platoon / The vanguard of Dhaka’s independence
On June 9, 1971, six guerilla freedom fighters were on the way to the Intercontinental Hotel (InterContinental Dacca) in a hijacked Datsun 1000 car around 6:30pm. Shahidullah Khan Badol was driving, while Kamrul Huq Shopon and Masud Sadek Chullu, Habibul Alam, Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya, and Ziauddin Ali Ahmed were carrying three hand grenades each.
Totail Beel in peril
Just a decade ago, Totail Beel, surrounded by unspoiled and pristine nature, could be reached from the Buriganga river.
Dhaka’s educational heritage
In 400-year-old Dhaka, a few educational institutes have stood the test of time. These century-old schools have played a significant role in shaping the education and culture of the city and beyond and have produced notable individuals who have left their mark on the national and world stages.
A testimony to earliest sculpting techniques of Bengal
A rare Vishnu statue has recently been discovered during visits to several archaeological sites in Sarail upazila of Brahmanbaria.
Weekend Read / Remnants of a wrestlers’ nest
Kushti, also known as pehlwani, a form of traditional wrestling contested in the sub-continent, was once a popular sport in Dhaka after having originated during the Mughal period.
Kushti’s legacy untarnished despite its downfall in Dhaka
While Dhaka’s traditional kushti is dying down, the scenario in other parts of the country is not bleak by any means. Many kushti events still take place outside the capital.
Arctic Circle: A trip to the land of glaciers
How vast is our planet? The answer may lie in how we perceive it. On the grand cosmic scale, the earth is minuscule, a mere speck invisible even under the most powerful microscope. However, on a human scale, it is truly enormous.
