Life & Living
5 must-see underrated movies of Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp, one of the most popular actors of all time, is universally loved for his crowd-pleasing performances in blockbuster movies like Pirates of the Caribbean, Alice in Wonderland, Edward Scissorhands among others, but being a versatile actor, he has also starred in many movies that are quite underrated.
Top 5 restaurants for rainy day delights in Dhaka City
Life in the big city is not easy. Constantly running after one thing or another and keeping up with the world at all times is necessary but exhausting. However, divine intervention sometimes manifests itself as howling wind and rumbling thunder followed by a heavy downpour, forcing this fast-paced life to a sudden stand-still and allowing you a moment of respite.
5 places to visit this summer to get the wintry vibes
Instead of spending your last summer vacation days in a place where you need a portable fan or umbrella, why not choose a colder, dare we say wintry locale to visit in summer? Skiing or hiking on an icy mountain in the months to come may seem absurd, but any of the following 5 places might be the perfect way to beat the heat while continuing to have the most thrilling summer vacation ever.
5 perfume choices that lasts longer during summer
You need a perfume that lasts for hours, tailored to your needs and busy schedule. To find the perfume that fits your lifestyle, start with this list of the best perfumes for men and women. Fragrances give our clothes that chef's kiss. It lingers long after we are gone. Long-lasting colognes typically stay on the skin for about 6-8 hours, or longer. This varies with time and skin chemistry, but it always leaves an impression. Surely, most of them come at a high price, but it does not have to be.
7 things to check before you leave for BCS Viva
The viva voce section of this strenuous and prolonged process of selection can be a particularly nerve-racking experience. Anxiety and nervousness originating from such a high-stakes exam may lead to some last-minute mistakes that can be avoided with ease. So, we have compiled a list of 7 things that you must not forget to check before you leave to attend your BCS viva.
How to prevent dengue fever
Dengue fever and other severe dengue symptoms are the result of a viral illness spread by mosquito bites. Those infected with dengue often have a high temperature, headache, bodily pains, nausea, and rash. As the population of Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the dengue virus, has surged in the early days of summer, medical professionals have warned that Bangladesh may have an even more severe outbreak of the disease in 2023 than in the previous years.
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.
ChatGPT — Life in the hands of AI?
Popular natural language AI, ChatGPT had made waves in global news when it first arrived. Hailed as a revolutionary aid to all kinds of writing, it had the world riveted. Fast forward a few months, has it really evolved into the job-eating monster that writers around the world were scared it would become?
Arts & Entertainment
Snapshots of history—Golam Mustafa meets Manzoor Alam Beg
Modhurimay Alap (Swapno ‘71, 2023) transcribes two days of conversations with the late Golam Mustafa, first Director of Photography of Bangladesh Television.
Naeem Mohaiemen discusses ‘Midnight’s Third Child’ at ULAB and Bengal Institute
Naeem Mohaiemen called the book and its selections, which comprise fairly short essays and editorials on contemporary matters, “an argument for somehow recording all that seems ephemeral, so we can then look back and trace what was happening.”
Poluck's 'Kabitanjali' released on Rabindra Jayanti
On the the occasion of Rabindra Jayanti 'Saregama Bengali' has released a collection of six timeless poems from Rabindranath Tagore.
There’s a new book out soon. Is it by Taylor Swift or BTS?
The guessing game began a few days ago, when an anonymous, untitled book scheduled for July 9, “4C Untitled Flatiron Nonfiction Summer 2023”, had Taylor Swift fans so convinced she had written a memoir that they made it a bestseller.
Billboard removed from Ayub Bachchu's Rupali Guitar sculpture
After much criticism, authorities of Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) have removed a billboard from the Rupali Guitar sculpture premises at Prabartak Mor in the port city
Literature showcases a different side to the Korean Wave
The books coming out of Korea are brutal in how they push the audience right back into the bleakness of reality
‘The Hunger Games’ and the danger of desensitisation to violence
In making the Hunger Games unglamorous, Suzanne Collins challenges the audience to reflect on how they view violence in entertainment
How you too can nearly, almost, probably become a Jedi Knight
At its core, 'Star Wars' is a classic tale of underdogs taking on a powerful enemy; it's a story of hope and perseverance, of standing up for what's right even when the odds are against you.
Showbiz
Tanzika Amin’s remarkable return
Stepping back into the game with grace and poise, Tanzika reflects on her remarkable comeback, shedding light on the industry's challenges and more with Star Showbiz.
A new action hero in town
With a manly look, brilliant dance moves, and amazing acting skills, Ador Azad has caught the audience's attention this Eid with his film, “Local”. His on-screen chemistry with Bubly was a treat to the eyes.
Perennially Pritom
From making us cry with “Bhenge Porona” to making us fall in love with “Morey Jak”- Pritom Hasan’s success spree continues as Coke Studio’s “Deora” reigns supreme in playlists of the youth.
Urbee flies high
The former Miss World Bangladesh contestant came for a cup of coffee with The Daily Star and revealed all about her love for acting.
The future is bright for Roshan
"The first thing I noticed was that it is a challenge to make good films regularly," the actor shared on his journey into the film industry.
Sabila Nur's all round brilliance
Sabila Nur broke the internet a week ago, because many didn’t believe that a full-time actress could score a CGPA of 3.97, like she did. Through her more than decade-long career, Sabila has actually been silently brilliant for a long time.
Sadia aims for the stars
Sadia’s charm flared as she appeared on the screen with some of the romantic projects, including Mizanur Rahman Aryan’s “Phooler Namey Naam”, which was the first big break in her career.
The Siam sensation continues
His dedication brought him national level recognition, further elevating his career with one after another remarkable projects.
Star Health
2 die of dengue, 147 new cases reported
At least two dengue patients died while 147 others were hospitalised in the last 24 hours till this morning.
96 more hospitalised with dengue
At least 96 dengue patients were hospitalised in the last 24 hours till yesterday morning.
1 dies of Covid, 197 new cases
One more Covid-19 death was recorded in the last 24 hours till 8:00am today
1 dead, 101 more hospitalised
One more dengue patient died and 101 were hospitalised in the last 24 hours till yesterday.
2 more die of Covid, 75 new cases
Two more Covid-19 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours till 8:00am today
3 more die of dengue
Three people died of dengue and 97 others were hospitalised across the country in the last 24 hours till yesterday morning.
Urge to governments to stop subsidising life-threatening tobacco crops
On World No Tobacco Day (31st May), the World Health Organisation (WHO) calls upon governments worldwide to end subsidies for tobacco farming and instead support the cultivation of sustainable crops that can alleviate hunger and food insecurity for millions of people.
Duality in human nature
At the end of the 19th century, Scottish author Robert Stevenson wrote a classic story about the two sides of human nature called ‘The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ where he wrote about the duality of human nature.
Satireday
‘Marriage aspirants’ joining ‘Chirokumar Sova’ after decision on marriage tax
The Dhoka West City Corporation (DWCC) has taken the notion of thinking outside the box to another level.
Marks and Sponsor, Life and Living post record profits
Marks and Sponsor Limited (M&S) and Life and Living Group of Company’s (LLG) profits rose respectively by 17.75 percent and 20.25 percent year-on-year in the last financial year.
Preparation for Los Angeles ’28
The Chapasthan government has started a new initiative in its capital of Dhoka with an aim to prepare the future athletes for athletic events in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
Company offers Cyclone Tourism package starting at Tk 85k++
Amoral Travel Agency has announced a brand new, extensive tourism package for people eager to escape the drudgery, grime and anxiety of city life and experience a refreshing change that will wash all of that, and more, away.
‘Coincidence? I think not’
On a fateful day, Officers Abul and Kabul arrested a student during a protest against the price hike of kidney dialysis. The arrestee was defiant of the police officers, making preposterous arguments about freedom of speech and the right to protest, which had really ticked the officers off.
Real seek entry into Farmgate coaching centre after failing English test
Real Madrid players have reportedly come to Bangladesh hoping for admission to a well-known coaching centre of Farmgate after they failed their English test, held in Etihad exam hall on English soil.
Creeps and stalkers consider filing lawsuit due to mental trauma caused by friend request glitch
“The real victims in this tragedy are the ones who didn’t get any friend requests despite the glitch and me,” said Mark.
Growing number of locals nominate female family members for basic tasks
Locals are being inspired by a city father’s mother’s decision to represent her ousted and disgraced son by nominating herself as an independent woman … erm … candidate.
TOGGLE
Reddit to fire 5% of their workforce
Reddit, the popular news discussion and social media platform, is planning to fire 5% of their total workforce, according to a company letter sent by Reddit CEO and co-founder, Steve Huffman.
UIU places 1st among Asian teams in University Rover Challenge 2023
TELOS, a Mars rover prototype and ICARUS, the companion aerial subsystem, developed by the UIU Mars rover team, have recently secured first place in Asia in the University Rover Challenge 2023.
Apple's BDT 3.7 lac worth AR headset can be a game changer for the industry
Apple unveiled its ground-breaking augmented reality (AR) headset, the Vision Pro.
Everything announced at Apple's WWDC 2023
Apple announced a plethora of new products and tech in this year's WWDC, including the Vision Pro headset, 15-inch MacBook Air, upgraded Mac Pro, iOS 17 and new OS for non-iPhone products.
Apple introduces revamped Mac Pro with M2 Ultra chip
The new Mac Pro, the first major upgrade in four years, heralds Apple's complete transition to its own Arm-powered Silicon.
Apple unveils 'world's thinnest' laptop: the 15-inch MacBook Air
With a thickness of just 11.5mm, Apple claims that the new MacBook Air is the thinnest 15-inch laptop available
Apple unveils the Apple Vision Pro, the computer that you can wear
This marks Apple's first foray into a new product category since the launch of the Apple Watch in 2015. According to recent reports from Bloomberg, the company aims to sell approximately 900,000 VR headsets within the first year of release.
Apple unveils new MacBooks, iOS 17, and more: Watch LIVE
Apple unveiled iOS 17 and introduced exciting hardware updates during the WWDC 2023 event. The ongoing event can be watched live here.
In Focus
Churchill and India Manipulation or Betrayal?
Winston Churchill spent three years in British India, a freshly minted cavalry subaltern,
1857: The Uprising in Delhi and Its Brutal Suppression
The great revolt of 1857 was a momentous struggle against colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent—the most widespread anti-colonial struggle during the nineteenth century.
1857: The uprising in Delhi and its brutal suppression
The great revolt of 1857 was a momentous struggle against colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent—the most widespread anti-colonial struggle during the nineteenth century.
'Guha was as much an intellectual and thinker as he was a historian'
Ranajit Guha ( May 23, 1923 - April 28, 1923) was an influential Indian historian and scholar renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of Subaltern Studies.
Only Connect: The Radical Empathy of Mrinal Sen
In a few days, the whole world will celebrate the centenary of Sen: the man who changed India’s cinematic landscape forever.
Why Sampadak Parishad opposes the Digital Security Act
After the enactment of the Digital Security Act (DSA) in 2018, the Sampadak Parishad published an elaborate
The Struggle for Justice and Dignity
The labour movement in Bangladesh has a rich and complex history that dates back to the 19th century.
Honouring Mujibnagar heroes
April 17, 1971, is a historic day that shines brightly in the collective memory of Bangladesh with immense pride, unwavering strength, and boundless enthusiasm.
Star Youth
5 YouTube channels to learn mobile app development
Check out these five well-curated YouTube channels that will help you build your first mobile application.
The bittersweet experience of planning your school’s senior week
The memories you take back with you will be worth it.
Why there’s a lack of English medium students applying to public universities
It’s commonly seen that participation from English medium students is comparatively much lower.
What it takes to get into DU “Cha” unit
Exam strategies are open to change every year, so the applicants must stay updated about that.
The problem with too much discipline in schools
Schools should also be a place students look back upon fondly, not a totalitarian regime they would grow up to hate for the rest of their lives.
How credible are your research sources?
Healthy scepticism is celebrated even in the scientific world, so why not practise it?
Public libraries could solve our public space problem
There needs to be a push for a strong public library culture in Dhaka.
Rethinking education and future skills
Staying relevant translates to positive outcomes for people.
Shift
Here's why Electric Vehicles are better for the environment
One of the most compelling reasons why electric vehicles are better for the environment is their significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S: The luxurious Civic Type R
The Acura Integra Type S marks the return of a beloved sports car that captured the hearts of enthusiasts during its initial run. This highly anticipated resurrection promises a fusion of classic design cues, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance.
Car fluids: What you should know
Here's a quick refresher on the essential car fluids and the basic information you should know about them.
A complete list of all the cars featured in Fast X
If you love your family and your cars equally, then the latest iteration of the Fast & Furious franchise will not leave you disappointed.
50 years later, Hyundai has rebuilt its very first concept car
Hyundai has resurrected its very first concept car, the Pony Coupe, showcasing it in all its retro glory at the prestigious 2023 Villa d'Este Concours in Lake Como.
The all-new and improved Porsche: 718 Spyder RS
The latest addition to Porsche's 718 lineup promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience like no other, equivalent to the 718 Cayman GT4 RS.
Maintaining cars during extreme summer heat
Those who commute every day will also often find that cars tend to get heated quickly when under the extreme summer heat. Here are some basic maintenance tips to keep in mind to keep your car cool even during summer.
Glanza V: the hot hatch from the late 90s
This particular Glanza V, owned by local car enthusiast Momtahin Hassan Ingit, was restored from the ground up. The sporty design with the side skirts, trunk spoiler and hood scoop makes it as evergreen as it can get.
Daily Star Books
Shantona Shantuma: A pioneering manga artist duo in Bangladesh
The ambition was to popularise Bangladeshi manga. At first the initiative was voluntary but later they succeeded to commercialise the publication.
UPL Summer Book Fair 2023 underway
Some of UPL’s best selling titles include 'Political Parties in India' (2022) by Abdul Razzaq and a Bangla translation of Yuval Noah Harari’s 'Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind' (2014).
Like father, unlike son: Martin Amis’s place in literature
Perhaps Martin Amis’s works do not grab me for the most part because it veers too far away from the humanism of, say, Saul Bellow—a writer Martin greatly admires and has written about extensively.
Racism and geopolitics in South Africa
Institutional racism in colonies, migration, flawed anti-monarchy sentiments stemming from personal vendettas, and the need for rebellion permeate the lives of these characters.
The rebels of Madhusudan
Neeldhaja is the first Bangla poem to be written in the form of a letter; it places a female figure with a rebellious demeanor as the protagonist of a historical narrative.
Everybody hates fantasy. Let’s talk about it.
Based on anecdotal evidence, complaints about the genre being “pure escapism”, “childish” and “uninteresting” are common. There are also reviews which accuse fantasy literature of being “formulaic”, “out of touch” and even “outdated”.
Random House Canada accepting open submissions from underrepresented writers
Following submission, the editorial team will respond to writers they are interested within six months.
A Rajshahi University scholar who has helped little magazines thrive
Four little magazines have been published under his editorship.
Star Holiday
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.
Lobhachhara and the great Nanka
In late October 2021, my quest for documenting tea-planters’ graves around the country brought me to Looba Cherra tea garden.
Dzo Zongo East Mission accomplished
Why do you climb? Why do you risk everything over scaling a summit?
Weekend Read
Gone are the days of glory
There was a time not so long ago when Bangladesh Film Development Corporation was abuzz with various activities -- from shooting films to dubbing and editing.
Abahani vs Mohammedan: Worth gold in nostalgia
Almost every major football crazy city in the world has a historic club rivalry that it can brag about. Kolkata, London, Manchester, Milan, Madrid – you name it and there’s at least one colourful and storied rivalry to whet the appetite of football fans.
A trip down Dhaka Derby lane
After joining Abahani from BJMC in 1984, I had to endure abusive words from the fans for some off-target shots during a practice session ahead of the match against Mohammedan.
Destroying the last line of defence
Coastal residents at great risk of cyclones as mangrove forests cut down, leased and grabbed for ‘development’
Need to protect mangroves for coastal people
Kamal Hossen is a recently retired professor at the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Science of Chattogram University. In a conversation with The Daily Star, he emphasised the importance of the conservation of mangrove forests.
Fire hazard in city markets: No lesson learnt
When one enters the building of Sharif Market on Chittaranjan Avenue in Sadarghat, there is a feeling of suffocation, despite the empty spaces between the eight-storey building. The building has been identified as risky in terms of fire safety. However, it only has nine fire extinguishers.
Fire safety in a precarious state
Fire safety in Dhaka’s market buildings is in a very precarious condition, which has increased vulnerabilities for people and properties associated with these markets. The recent fire incidents in Bangabazar and Dhaka New Super Market are testimonies of these harsh realities prevailing in the capital, said Dr Adil Mohammed Khan, executive director of Institute for Planning and Development (IPD), during an interview with The Daily Star yesterday.
