Life & Living

Life & Living

Comfort is the new standard in 2025 fashion

In 2025, relaxed fashion dominates with breathable fabrics, loose fits, minimal makeup, retro footwear, and simple jewelry leading trends. Post-pandemic lifestyle shifts and hybrid work have made comfort-driven, effortless style both fashionable and timelessly SEO-relevant.

14h ago

Why costume jewellery is dominating Bangladeshi fashion

Costume jewellery blends heritage and modern flair, elevating style with ethnic, tribal, or minimalist pieces. Affordable yet expressive, it reflects individuality, tradition, and evolving trends — perfect for fashion-forward women embracing both vintage and contemporary jewellery aesthetics.

1d ago

#Events / BRAC Bank TARA reframes the conversation on parenting: A shared journey of partnership

On the occasion of International Mother’s Day, BRAC Bank’s women-centred initiative TARA held an event that did not just celebrate motherhood or struggles of being a mother but gently pulled apart the structure surrounding it. The event titled “Parenting: A Shared Journey of Partnership” created space for a much-needed dialogue that was not about glorifying sacrifice but rather about asking why parenting still leans heavily, and often unfairly, on mothers and how partners can show up to share it.

13h ago

#Events / Zurhem styles international celebrities at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival

The red carpets of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival shimmered with glamour, but one name emerged repeatedly among the style standouts — Zurhem.

14h ago

#Fiction / It doesn’t rain in Shukhno Gram

In dry, forgotten Shukhno Gram, a station master’s dull routine shifts when a runaway bride in blue arrives. Their unexpected bond, painted with longing, art, and fleeting rain, transforms solitude into a moment of magic.

1d ago

Protecting elders from heatwaves: Practical cooling solutions

Protect elderly loved ones from extreme heat by using refrigerated towels, sponge baths, and mist sprays to cool skin gently. Review medications for heat sensitivity, encourage breathable footwear, and prioritise hydration with light, water-rich foods for better health.

4d ago

#Perspective / Where are the summer lovers now?

Dhaka’s brutal summer heatwave hits 38-46°C, turning the city into an urban heat island with power cuts and unbearable humidity. Summer enthusiasts vanish indoors, while street vendors endure the extreme conditions, redefining what surviving summer means.

4d ago

Surviving Bangladesh's heatwave: AC-Free solutions

Beat the heatwave without AC by using energy-efficient tips like decluttering rooms, using wet sheets on windows, placing ice near fans, switching to LED lighting, reducing humidity, promoting cross-ventilation, and adding indoor plants for natural cooling.

4d ago
Arts & Entertainment

Arts & Entertainment

Swadhinata Concert temporarily suspended

The concert was set to feature performances from Bangladeshi artists

1m ago

International Jazz Day Special / A jazz sanctuary amidst Dhaka’s familiar chaos

On an uncharacteristically cool April evening, I stepped out of Banani’s blaring traffic and neon haze into a dimly lit room tucked within a commercial building and almost cinematically shifted from chaos to a melodical hush. A small audience leaned forward, captivated by the spell of an ensemble that included an esraj, a sarod, a jazz guitarist and a drummer, and a vocalist whose voice moved without language, just sound, rhythm, and improvisation. The music was neither entirely classical nor jazz nor fusion, but something looser, more exploratory, alive to the moment.

2w ago

JU observes Selim Al Deen’s death anniv

The drama and dramatics department at Jahangirnagar University yesterday organised a daylong programme at their campus, marking the 17th death anniversary of renowned thespian and former teacher Selim Al Deen.

4m ago

‘Bangladesh first concert’: Artistes vow to stay united for country

The capital’s Manik Mia Avenue was teeming with people from all walks of life since yesterday afternoon, as they waited to catch a glimpse of their favourite artistes.

5m ago

The rise and fall of Chattogram’s single-screen cinema halls

Eid holidays in Chattogram city were once synonymous with a cherished tradition: families and friends gathering to enjoy movies in single-screen cinema halls scattered across the city. However, the golden days of cinema halls are long gone.

1m ago

Metallica to hold virtual concert in Fortnite

Metallica, the world-renowned rock band, is set to hold a virtual concert in the popular video game Fortnite. Named 'Metallica: Fuel Fire Fury', Fortnite players can tune in to the virtual concert on two set dates: June 22 at 2 pm, 5 pm, and 11 pm ET, and June 23 at 10 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm ET.

11m ago

BTS’ RM sets new record with his latest No. 1 single

BTS’ leader RM returns to the US charts, only weeks after releasing his latest solo album. The global star made a comeback as a featured artiste on Megan Thee Stallion's new single "Neva Play," which has quickly become a success for both artistes.

7m ago

J-Hope’s ‘Mona Lisa’ takes over iTunes charts globally

Yesterday, J-Hope unveiled a new single, “Mona Lisa”, accompanied by a music video. The energetic track was co-produced by the BTS member himself and Blake Slatkin, known for his work with Charlie Puth, Sam Smith, and Lizzo.

1m ago
Showbiz

Showbiz

Jaya and Sharmin take over

As Jaya Ahsan and Mohsina Akhter, the two leads of the film, take sips of black coffee and rong cha respectively at The Daily Star’s studio, the excitement levels vary among the illustrious mega-star and respected theatre practitioner.

2d ago

Dola does it again

Some songs don’t just trend—they take over. One such track is “Chand Mama”, from the film ”Borbaad”, which didn’t just climb the YouTube Music trending list once, but soared to the top twice and is still continuing to evoke emotions even after a month.

2w 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.

1m ago

Xefer owning it

This Eid, Xefer Rahman surprised fans not just with new music, but also with her return to acting. After her debut in Mostofa Sarwar Farooki’s “Monogamy”, she appeared in the highly anticipated web-series “Myself Allen Swapan 2”, directed by Shihab Shaheen. She not only shared the screen with Nasir Uddin Khan but also lent her voice to the series with the track “Boyam Pakhi 2.0”. Simultaneously, her song “Niye Jabe Ki” from the Eid film “Daagi” was added to the festive lineup.

1m ago

Eid 2025: Your complete entertainment itinerary

As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, the entertainment industry gears up to deliver some of the year’s biggest productions across cinema, television, and OTT platforms. This year is no exception, with highly anticipated films and soundtracks setting the stage for a grand celebration.

1m ago

AKM Itmam beyond borders

The air crackled with quiet intensity as AKM Itmam, the rising star of “Boli (The Wrestler)”, settled into a chair at The Daily Star’s premises. He was a whirlwind of energy, a man with a flight to catch in less than 24 hours, yet he exuded a calm focus that belied his hurried schedule.

1m ago

‘Outsider’ Rehan is now a major rising star

Starting out as a model, he made his acting debut in Vicky Zahed’s “Ararat” (2024), portraying a jinn—a performance that caught the people’s attention. His latest release, “Neel Shukh”, has taken him even further, proving that he’s here to stay.

2m ago

Angel’s voice, fighter’s grit

The rising star will be starring in four films this year—two Bangladeshi projects, including one directed by Tanvir Hossain Probal, and two Indian films, one from Tamil Nadu and another from Kolkata. “I have a significant fanbase in Kolkata, and that’s how I was approached for these projects,” he shared.

2m ago
Star Health

Star Health

Youth wellness in focus: insights from the 2025 festival survey

Dhaka Flow’s Second National Youth Wellness Festival 2025 brought together students from ten top universities in Bangladesh to explore mental health, emotional wellbeing, and sustainable living. Key messages included: “Healing is cool, seeking help is courageous, and movement is critical.”

3d ago

Free heatstroke centre opens at DNCC Covid-19 Hospital in Mohakhali

The facility is offering free medical treatment to patients suffering from heat-related illnesses.

1w ago

Hand hygiene now Protect patients, protect the planet

World Hand Hygiene Day is observed every year on 5 May. In 2025, the World Health Organisation (WHO) commemorated 17 years of the global “SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands” campaign, which underscores the crucial role of hand hygiene in infection prevention and control (IPC).

1w ago

Safer walking and cycling crucial for road safety and better health

As the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week takes place from 12 to 18 May, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has introduced a new toolkit aimed at assisting governments in promoting active mobility, with the theme “Make walking and cycling safe”. 

1w ago

Necessity of private medical universities for the development of the healthcare industry in Bangladesh

The future of the healthcare sector of Bangladesh highly depends on its medical education system. The demand for highly skilled doctors, researchers and healthcare professionals is increasing with a growing population and evolving healthcare needs.

1w ago

Why high cholesterol demands your attention

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, yet one of its major risk factors—high cholesterol—often goes unnoticed. With no visible symptoms, high cholesterol can quietly damage your arteries for years before showing any warning signs. That is why understanding and managing cholesterol is essential for protecting your heart health.

1w ago

How ultra-processed foods can cut your life short

Ultra-processed foods—like sugary drinks, packaged snacks, instant noodles, and frozen ready meals—are increasingly dominating diets around the world. Though convenient and often affordable, a growing body of global research shows that high consumption of these products may significantly reduce lifespan.

1w ago

Powering health through hormone awareness

April 24, 2025, marks the worldwide observance of World Hormone Day, with this year’s powerful theme: “Because Hormones Matter”. While dedicated days exist for specific hormone-related conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and PCOS, this comprehensive initiative addresses all hormonal health aspects holistically.

1w ago
Satireday

Satireday

Satire / Justice for Sale: Case Files Found at Tk 16 per Kg

Who knew justice could be 'that' quick, or cheap?

4m ago

Satire / BBA student gets married, calls it the best networking experience of his life

Nothing is impossible – if you believe in your ability to make the right connections, that is.

7m ago

Satire / iPhone 16 users claim biggest feature is a scam

The iPhone 16 series launched a couple of weeks ago, coinciding with a sudden rise in online ads by people selling human kidneys.

7m ago

Government losing ‘Aandar’ control trying to bring it under control

In an unprecedented twist, the government keeps losing Aandar control while attempting to bring it under control. Aanda, or egg -- whatever people choose to call it doesn’t matter anymore as they are having breakfast without eggs.

7m ago

Holy League unveils new leftist wing

“We represent the thoughts, feelings and experiences of the majority of Bangladesh. Our policies, philosophies and ideals are all BLESSED. You must understand this,” he yelled at the crowd.

7m ago

A tale from the future: Ordinary students celebrate lynching 100th person

The year is 2028. Ordinary students have done something extraordinary yet again. Yesterday, they organised “Lunch for Lynching” to celebrate beating a hundred people to death since the “lucky seventh independence”.

8m ago

Satire / ‘Natok Kom Koro Pio’

“Natok kom koro Pio,” the man said, his white beard shaking with fury.

8m ago

Altruistic prisoners demand work-from-jail permission

When the world is busy inventing and discovering new things, the people of Chapasthan 2.0 are busy coming up with new demands with every passing hour.

8m ago
TOGGLE

TOGGLE

Traveller’s notebook: in the Land of the Blue Dragon

Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is not the first destination that comes to an average Bangladeshi traveller’s mind when thinking of getting out on exploring a new place.

6y ago

Traveller’s notebook: Kuala Lumpur

We’re a generation of wanderers and we have long been a species of wanderers. What ties us to our 9–5 routine is not natural. We want to explore, even if we don’t realise it, each one of us, to our very core, are explorers.

7y ago

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.

1y ago

Editor's Note / Embracing the inevitable

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

1y ago

So long, goodbye

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

1y ago

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.

1y ago

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.

1y ago

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. 

1y ago
In Focus

In Focus

Forgotten Currents / Bengal’s Ties to the Straits World

Medieval Bengal’s links to the Straits world, a narrow stretch of water connecting to Southeast Asia and beyond, are overlooked. This world saw not only ocean-going vessels, but also coastal and localised traffic which, like riverine transport, has gone largely unrecorded.

1d ago

Muktadhara / How Tagore Exposed the Tyranny of Nationalism

Rabindranath Tagore, whose genius touched nearly every branch of the arts and literature, left an indelible imprint on the world of drama—not merely as a playwright, but as an actor, director, and visionary of the stage.

1w ago

In Search of Premodern Bengal’s Literary Treasures

With the passing of Professor Tony K. Stewart, Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Chair in Humanities Emeritus, the field of South Asian religions, and more specifically, premodern Bengali literature, has lost one of its leading lights.

2w ago

In Focus / Subaltern Aspirations in Early Modern Bengal

Poetry, History, and Caste Struggle

2w ago

Raja Pratapaditya Charitra and the Birth of Bengali History Writing

The writing of history in the Bengali language by a Bengali began around 225 years ago with the publication of Raja Pratapaditya Charitra in 1801.

3w ago

New Contextualism: An architectural philosophy for deltaic Bangladesh

This endeavour seeks to offer a more nuanced, responsible, and humane approach to shaping our built environments

3w ago

The untold story of Franklin Book Dhaka: In the shadow of the cold war

The Cold War was a war of armaments and ideologies—but it was also a war of words, fought in classrooms, libraries, and on the printed page.

4w ago

New Year, Old Questions: What Will the State Do for the Hills?

When the cuckoo begins to call from the distant peaks of the hills, and the southern breeze carries the gentle fragrance of newly blossomed wildflowers in vibrant hues, the hills awaken in their own colors—ushering in the celebration of the eternal tradition of welcoming a new year and bidding farewell to the previous year

1m ago
Star Youth

Star Youth

Nostalgia, memory, and the power of physical media in a digital world

To many, collections are personal archives. They are reflections of tastes and values, and, to this day, the beauty of those tangible experiences remains.

2w ago

Opinion / Mindless littering and our inability to keep our streets clean

Teaching someone the collective responsibility of keeping a city clean feels like trying to empty the Buriganga with a teacup.

2w ago

SALT Knowledge Fair showcases community-led solutions for a better future

The Global Fund For Children (GFC) and hosted by the Grow Your Reader Foundation (GYRF) at Joynagar High School. Held on April 19, 2025.

2w ago

Challenges female drivers face in Bangladesh

For many women, driving is not just about navigating the roads, but the need to overcome pervasive societal biases while grappling with safety concerns.

2w ago

Five digital platforms for journaling

Here we have compiled five digital platforms that elevate the art of journaling into a convenient and paperless delight.

3w ago

The life altering mundanity of adulthood

As an adult, you’re constantly exhausted. You have no idea where your money goes. You’re not sure if you even want to know.

3w ago

Of de-extinct ‘dire wolves’ and the importance of science communication

The language of science is one that is heavy with jargon, and rarely communicates well to anyone not well-versed in that field to begin with.

3w ago

Bangladeshi Shomy Hasan Chowdhury named World Economic Forum Young Global Leader 2025

Shomy Hasan Chowdhury, an award-winning WASH Activist and development professional from Bangladesh, has been named to the prestigious World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders (YGL) Class of 2025.

4w ago
Shift

Shift

Curated Cars: The Dhaka Car Show that finally got it right

May 1 and 2 gave us something rare. A proper show. Curated Cars wasn’t just another excuse to hang out and say, “Bro, my car faster.” This was for the real enthusiasts—the ones who actually know what a Jaguar S-Type is and don’t think a McLaren is just a footballer. So what did they do differently?

1w ago

Mercedes EQS 680 Night Series: Maybach's take on silent luxury

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 marks its entrance into the electric luxury SUV segment with the new special edition 'Night Series', designed to combine exclusivity with a modern, electric edge.

2w ago

Dhaka Motor Show returns, but not for the gearheads

The Dhaka Motor Show came back to its old home at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) from May 1 to 3, reclaiming all four halls after a brief relocation to the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre. The venue was packed with cars, bikes, trucks, scooters, lubricants, helmets, tool vendors, accessory peddlers, and food stalls—but not much in the way of actual enthusiasm for driving.

2w ago

Press Release / Mitsubishi unveils locally assembled Xpander at Dhaka Motor Show 2025

Mitsubishi Bangladesh has officially unveiled the locally assembled Mitsubishi Xpander at the Dhaka Motor Show 2025. The company unveiled four variants of the Xpander lineup, which includes Xpander Classic, Xpander Premium, Xpander Eco, and the special edition Xpander Sport.

2w ago

Toyota and Alphabet's Waymo are teaming up

Toyota Motor and Waymo, the autonomous driving tech company owned by Google-parent Alphabet, have announced a preliminary agreement to explore a partnership in autonomous vehicle development. According to an official blog post by Waymo, the collaboration aims to create a new self-driving vehicle platform while also improving next-generation personally owned vehicles (POVs).

2w ago

Proton X70: Rancon launches locally assembled SUV in Bangladesh

Rancon Cars has officially launched the first locally assembled Proton X70 SUV in Bangladesh at the Proton Bangladesh Rancon Showroom in Capital’s Tejgaon area, on 30 April 2025.

2w ago

Kawasaki unveils concept for a four-legged robot that you can ride

Kawasaki has unveiled a concept that offers a glimpse into the future of off-road personal mobility at the Osaka Expo 2025. Named the Corleo, the vehicle concept resembles a robotic horse and is powered by hydrogen.

1m ago

Press Release / Revoo unveils C32 electric bike in Bangladesh

Revoo Bangladesh has launched the Revoo C32, an electric bike.

1m ago
Books & Literature

Books & Literature

KHERO KHATA / Wash your fruits

I rush to the mirror. My gums are pristine, no wound, no sin. But when I look back at the fruit, the truth reveals itself: the flesh is blackened, writhing with tiny, hungry mouths. The rot has teeth

3d ago

EVENT REPORT / Sister Library reads Sehri Tales: An evening of ‘Pink’ and ‘Digital’

The event commenced with a promise of memorable tales about memory, femininity, modernity, identity, and more

4d ago

ESSAY / Panic, puke and Palahniuk

Now, two decades later, the question lingers: Did "Guts" really cause waves of fainting spells, or did the legend grow legs of its own?

5d ago

FICTION / The importance of being imperfect

Now, an automated metro-rail glides silently through the city. Conversations have become clipped, calculated. Efficiency replaces spontaneity. They call it peace. Rahim calls it absence.

3d ago

THE SHELF / 5 books my 5-year-old can’t get enough of

In a world where smart TVs, touchscreen tablets, and mobiles are always within reach, I feel grateful that my daughter, who is almost five and a half, often brings me books and asks me to read them to her for a quick, fun storytime

5d ago

Faria Basher named Asia Regional Winner of Commonwealth Short Story Prize

She is the first writer of Bangladeshi origin to win the regional prize

5d ago

EVENT REPORT / ‘Tamadi Alap’: Exploring the space between sound and silence

A poetry reading and discussion session on writer and poet Naseef Faruque Amin’s poetry collection, Tamadi (Boitoroni, 2025)

6d ago

ESSAY / On motherhood and Mahasweta Devi’s ‘Breast-Giver’

I couldn’t help but think of the cultural significance of the word “ma” in our own society today; it is lead-heavy with meaning and so frequently invoked—from commonplace addresses of tender respect for women to motherly depictions of the landscape of Bengal in artworks, songs, and films

1w ago
Star Holiday

Star Holiday

Nordic summer bliss

The Nordic summer stretches time -- golden evenings linger, and under the glow of the Midnight Sun, every moment feels both eternal and fleeting.

3w ago

Himba village: An oasis of peace in Kalahari

However, one of the most unforgettable experiences of this journey was our visit to a Himba village in northern Namibia, where time seemed to slow down.

1m ago

Madhya Pradesh: A journey into ancient India

Nestled in the very heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and nature. With its rich heritage, the state offers a unique window into ancient India. It hosts three Unesco World Heritage sites, 11 natural parks, 24 wildlife sanctuaries and six tiger reserves. However, the state, with all its archaeological sites, turned out to be a treasure trove to me, a traveller drawn to history.

5m ago

The Pamir Highway: A road trip to remember

Our journey began with the dream of exploring Central Asia in a motorhome, but time constraints and border challenges reshaped our plans.

7m ago

Visiting four African nations in 12 days

Time is the one thing we all want but can never get enough of. No matter how hard we try to hold onto it, it always slips away.

7m ago

A Day in Jaipur: A city of splendid forts, mahals and people

Since childhood, my imagination of Rajasthan was shaped by Satyajit Ray's classic detective film Sonar Kella -- a thrilling tale that masterfully captured the beauty, tradition, and history of this land of kings and forts.

8m ago

Overlanding in Africa Touring 10 countries in 93 days

“Overlanding”, might be more familiar to Westerners, but it’s a concept anyone can embrace. It isn’t a typical vacation or guided tour. It’s a self-sufficient adventure travel style where one can conquer long distances, exploring for weeks, months, or even years.

8m ago

Scaling Mount Whitney

“My God! How can a mountain change so much in just a month?”

9m ago
Weekend Read

Weekend Read

The organic shift

When Farzana Karim, a Dhaka-based HR professional, developed chronic acidity, she tried everything from antacids to Ayurvedic concoctions.

3d ago

JU in full bloom

On the campus of Jahangirnagar University, the season sings a different song.

1w ago

The rickshaw debate

For some, the battery-run vehicles are a time-efficient and cost-effective blessing; for others, they are a dangerous disruption to the already precarious traffic system.

2w ago

The art of the fix: How luggage repairers save your travel companion

There is something comforting about that familiar zip, the reassuring click of a sturdy wheel rolling across a polished airport floor, the reassuring heft of your suitcase as you navigate new cities and distant horizons.

3w ago

A Bangladeshi scientist's visit to Antarctica

A researcher, Fairuz Ishraque spends 69 days in the icy continent

1m ago

Beyond the beach / Exploring the wonders around Cox’s Bazar

For city dwellers yearning for an escape from their mechanical lives, Cox’s Bazar stands as a beacon of natural beauty and serenity. Famous for its sun-kissed beaches and rolling waves, this coastal gem captivates the hearts of travelers.

1m ago

From struggle to success the Nujiang story

On March 12, the 10-member journalist delegation from Bangladesh, of which I was a part, held a seminar with academicians and professors at the Yunnan Academy of Social Sciences in China’s Kunming city.

1m ago

Eid retail rush: A shopper’s guide to Dhaka

Who is crazy enough to go window shopping at this time of the year? I mean during the month of Ramadan, and that too in a cosmopolitan like Dhaka.

1m ago