United News of Bangladesh

Singer Kanak Dutta has made her playback singing debut in films through the upcoming movie ‘Dhaka 1205’. Her debut comes with the song ‘Hridoyer Jomine’, written and composed by Walid Ahmed, with music direction by Rubel Flying Kites, said a press release. Speaking about the opportunity, Kanak Dutta said, “Music has always been an inseparable part of my life. I have been singing for many years, but this is my first opportunity to perform a playback song for a film. Every singer dreams of becoming a playback artist, and through ‘Dhaka 1205’, that dream is finally coming true. I am grateful to the filmmaker for placing his trust in my voice.” Music director Rubel Flying Kites described ‘Hridoyer Jomine’ as a song that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.  “This is the kind of song that allows listeners not only to enjoy the music but also to visualize the entire story and emotion behind it. Kanak Dutta is a talented and humble artist. Her unique voice and willingness to take on creative challenges truly impressed me,” he said. Director Walid Ahmed noted that the production team had been searching for a singer who could convey not only the melody but also the emotional depth of the song. “ Kanak Dutta is already a familiar name among music lovers for her long-standing dedication to Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, folk music, classical music, and modern songs. Her entry into film playback singing marks a significant new chapter in her musical career. Beyond audio releases and live stage performances, her voice will now reach audiences on the big screen as well. Produced under the banner of Shadamata Entertainment, ‘Dhaka 1205’ stars Ashna Habib Bhabna and Rakib Hossain in the lead roles.

Museums are increasingly playing a vital role in connecting people with different civilizations, allowing visitors to explore the history, culture and traditions of distant countries without leaving their own cities. From ancient Cambodian artifacts in Beijing to royal treasures from Kuwait in northwest China, museums across the country are attracting growing numbers of visitors eager to learn about other cultures and gain deeper cultural experiences. At the Meet You Museum in Beijing’s 798 Art Zone, an exhibition featuring 122 artifacts from the National Museum of Cambodia is giving Chinese visitors a rare opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the Angkor civilization. The exhibition, which opened on May 1, will continue until August 30. Li Duo, who has a master's degree in archaeology, said the exhibition offers a chance to closely experience another great civilization and better understand its history and achievements. “Being able to encounter another major civilization without traveling abroad shows the true value of museums,” she said. The exhibition combines historical artifacts with modern technology. According to Wang Haixuan, vice president of the Beijing Zhongchuang Tourism & Culture Group, digital displays recreate the engineering wonders of Angkor Wat, while interactive systems allow visitors to engage with characters from ancient myths. The museum has also organized exhibitions on other ancient civilizations, including a popular Egyptian exhibition last year. “Our aim is to provide opportunities for people to learn about cultures from around the world,” Wang said, adding that such exhibitions are especially popular among young people, families and museum enthusiasts. He described museums as bridges linking the past with the present and connecting China with the wider world through cultural exchange and dialogue. According to China's National Cultural Heritage Administration, the country had 7,188 registered museums by the end of 2025, with more than 91 percent offering free admission. Together, they welcomed around 1.56 billion visits last year. Across China, both public and private museums are increasingly hosting international exhibitions, bringing global cultures closer to domestic audiences. At the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, visitors can explore "Golden Dust of Time: Exhibition of the Royal Collection From Kuwait," which features 130 groups of artifacts from the Kuwaiti royal collection, including gold ornaments, sculptures and ceremonial vessels. Liu Chunxia, a tourist from Guangzhou, said the exhibition helped her gain a deeper understanding of Kuwaiti history and culture despite never having visited the country. “These artifacts show the artistic skills, beliefs and lifestyles of people who lived thousands of years ago,” she said. Experts say the growing popularity of such exhibitions reflects a rising demand among Chinese visitors for cultural and educational experiences as living standards improve. Ban Rui, director of the Gansu Provincial Museum, said museums are evolving from institutions focused mainly on local history into platforms that encourage exchanges between civilizations. Organizing international exhibitions often involves high costs and complex logistics, including transportation, insurance and promotion. To overcome these challenges, many museums are increasingly working with state-owned enterprises and private-sector partners to expand access to overseas exhibitions. This year alone, Chinese museums have hosted exhibitions from countries including Italy, the Czech Republic, Syria, Britain, Greece and Kuwait. Shanghai is also preparing to launch a major exhibition titled "Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" in July. The 16-month exhibition at the Shanghai Museum will showcase the history and culture of ancient American civilizations and continue the museum’s efforts to introduce world cultures to Chinese audiences. At the same time, Chinese cultural heritage is reaching wider international audiences. The culture of Dunhuang, famous for its historic Mogao Grottoes, has become an important part of China's cultural exchanges abroad. Through digital technology, reconstructed caves and immersive exhibitions, audiences in countries such as France have been able to experience the beauty of Dunhuang's art and history. Chai Qilin of the Dunhuang Academy said overseas visitors have shown strong interest in Chinese cultural exhibitions and often express a desire to see more similar events. “These exhibitions help people gain a deeper and more direct understanding of Chinese culture,” he said. The Shanxi Museum has also expanded its international presence, partnering with museums in countries including the United States, Australia, Russia, France, Greece and Mexico since 2012. According to Zhang Huiguo, deputy director of the museum, ancient Chinese bronze and jade artifacts have attracted significant attention abroad because of their unique craftsmanship and cultural significance. The museum also uses interactive displays and immersive technologies to explain traditional Chinese architectural techniques and ancient bronze-making methods, making Chinese culture more accessible to international audiences. In Mexico, museum experts highlighted similarities and differences between traditional Chinese silver craftsmanship and local silver-making traditions, helping visitors better understand both cultures. Zhang said China's growing international influence has helped increase global interest in Chinese culture, from traditional Hanfu clothing and Chinese cuisine to exhibitions showcasing the country's long history and cultural heritage. “International exhibitions are not only about promoting cultural diversity,” he said. “They are also about strengthening cultural connections and people-to-people exchanges around the world.”

A growing number of young people in China are embracing traditional culture by dressing up as ancient emperors, empresses and princesses while visiting Beijing’s historic landmarks, creating a booming business for costume and makeup studios around the Forbidden City. Among those benefiting from the trend is makeup artist Chen Jiao, whose job is to transform visitors into figures from imperial China. She is one of hundreds of stylists working near the Forbidden City, the former home of Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Every day, visitors arrive at studios to wear elaborate traditional outfits decorated with phoenix patterns and accessorized with jade, pearls and other ornaments inspired by royal fashion. Their makeup is carefully applied and their hairstyles recreated to match the period. The experience typically costs around 300 yuan (about $45), although premium packages can cost more than 1,000 yuan ($150). After getting dressed, many visitors head to the walls, gates and moat surrounding the Forbidden City to take photos and videos for social media. While some fully embrace the historical look, others mix traditional costumes with modern accessories such as sneakers, sunglasses and bubble tea. Chen said demand is especially high during public holidays and weekends. She recently started work at 6 a.m. and styled around 24 customers in a single day. "There is hardly an off-season," she said, noting that business only slows briefly when the Forbidden City is closed. The trend reflects a broader interest among Chinese youth in immersive cultural experiences and traditional clothing inspired by the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Ming dynasty ruled China for more than 270 years and built the Forbidden City, while the Qing dynasty, China's last imperial dynasty, ended in 1912, bringing more than 2,000 years of imperial rule to a close. Many tourists say wearing period costumes enhances their experience at historical sites. Chen Xiao, a university student from Shandong province, travelled overnight to Beijing during the recent Qingming holiday and chose to wear a pink outfit associated with a Qing dynasty princess. "I feel that when you visit a historical place, it's nice to wear something that matches the setting," she said. The popularity of the trend has fueled rapid growth in the costume-styling industry. Local media reports that a building housing Chen Jiao’s studio had only a few such businesses in 2020, but now hosts more than 100. Cai Zehong, founder of Hanfu Beijing, said many young people are becoming interested in traditional Chinese clothing as they learn more about the country's cultural heritage. He said historical costume dramas, which have long been popular in China, have also helped drive interest in traditional fashion. Chen Xiao acknowledged that television dramas influenced her interest. "I've watched many historical dramas, and they've definitely shaped my interest. Recently, I've become particularly fascinated by Qing dynasty history," she said. Another visitor, Liu Ruitong from Hebei province, selected a black Ming-style outfit for her photoshoot. She said she liked the costume's elegant appearance and felt its dark color complemented both the Forbidden City and traditional Chinese scenery.

While the United Arab Emirates is known for its dazzling skylines and brightly lit cities, one remote desert area is helping residents reconnect with the night sky. The Al Quaa Desert, located about 100 kilometers southeast of Abu Dhabi, has emerged as one of the country's darkest locations, offering visitors a rare chance to view the Milky Way with the naked eye. Volunteers from the Dubai Astronomy Group regularly organize stargazing trips to the desert, where participants can observe stars, meteors and the galaxy far from the light pollution that dominates much of the UAE. According to a 2016 study, nearly all UAE residents are unable to see the Milky Way from their homes due to artificial lighting from roads, buildings and urban developments. The country ranks among the world's most light-polluted nations. During a recent excursion, families and astronomy enthusiasts gathered under the desert sky, using telescopes and mobile phones to capture images of the galaxy. As the moon set, the Milky Way gradually became visible, drawing excitement from participants. Dubai Astronomy Group General Manager Sheeraz Awan said stargazing helps people appreciate their place in the universe and reconnect with a tradition that once guided Bedouins across the desert. Despite growing urbanization, Al Quaa remains a haven for astronomy lovers, providing a glimpse of the night sky largely hidden from view in the UAE's modern cities.

China is strengthening conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkey, also known as the golden monkey, in Mount Fanjingshan, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in southwest Guizhou Province. Deep inside the misty mountains, veterinarian Yang Wei has spent the past six years closely working with the rare primates, building a strong bond while helping improve their chances of survival. The Guizhou snub-nosed monkey is a nationally protected species and is listed as critically endangered, with its entire wild population — estimated at around 850 — living in the Fanjingshan area. After completing his studies, Yang returned to his hometown in 2020 and now leads the monkey research centre under the Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve Administration. He said his goal is to protect the rare species found only in his region. At the centre, Yang and his team have improved care for rescued monkeys by designing enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitat. As a result, all rescued monkeys under their care have survived so far. The team has also enhanced nutrition and care for pregnant monkeys. While females in the wild usually give birth every three years, those under scientific care at the centre are now producing healthy offspring every two years. Currently, nine monkeys — including rescued and centre-born individuals — are being cared for at the facility. Protecting monkeys in the wild remains a major challenge, but authorities are increasingly using technology to monitor and safeguard them. Surveillance systems, infrared cameras, drones and regular patrols are being used to track their movements and prevent poaching. In addition, 14 ecological corridors have been built along roads around the mountain to ensure safe movement of monkeys between feeding and resting areas, while reducing human interference. These measures are already showing positive results. Increased monkey activity has been recorded, with cameras capturing groups moving freely through the forest and using the newly built corridors. Forest ranger Li Jiuhua said he has noticed a rise in the number of monkeys and other wildlife in recent years. He added that sightings of multiple monkey groups in a single day are becoming more common. China is also expanding similar conservation efforts nationwide to protect biodiversity and promote environmentally sustainable development. Thousands of ecological protection projects have been implemented in recent years, with more planned in the future. Locally, authorities have invested over 46 million yuan to build a new conservation centre for the monkeys. The facility, which began trial operations in April 2026, includes enclosures, a veterinary hospital, laboratories and food preparation areas. Officials say the new centre will focus on breeding, research and education, while also aiming to involve more experts and share conservation knowledge globally.

Moving to music is proving to be one of the best ways for older adults to stay healthy, active and socially engaged, according to health experts in the United States. At a dance practice in Arizona, 87-year-old Carol Ross leads a group of women aged 50 and above in tap and jazz routines, smiling as she calls out steps. Ross, who founded the Rodeo City Wreckettes more than two decades ago, says dancing has been a lifelong passion that keeps her energized. Medical professionals say dance can be as beneficial as other forms of exercise, helping older adults improve strength, balance, flexibility and even brain health. It also supports mental wellbeing and social connection. Experts note that any style of dance — from ballroom and salsa to line dancing or fitness routines like Zumba — can offer similar benefits. Health specialists say dancing can reduce the risk of falls and help improve mobility, especially when routines include movements such as stepping backwards or balancing on one leg. Doctors also recommend older adults include regular dance sessions as part of their weekly exercise routine, alongside aerobic activity. Members of the Wreckettes rehearse twice a week for two-hour sessions, performing at community events, rodeos and retirement homes. The group often donates its earnings to charity. For many members, dancing also helps build friendships and reduce loneliness, especially after major life changes such as retirement or the loss of a partner. Several dancers say staying active is their way of ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling life in old age. The group also regularly performs for people in care homes, where music often helps lift the mood of residents, especially those in memory care units. Similar dance groups for seniors in other US cities also perform regularly, saying learning routines helps keep both body and mind sharp. Health experts advise those interested in starting dance later in life to first consult a doctor, begin with simple routines, and look for classes at community centres, gyms or online platforms. They also recommend wearing comfortable clothing and warming up properly before starting any dance session.

Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the famed workshop behind many iconic children’s characters, has opened its Queens studio to public tours for the first time, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the art of puppet-making. Founded by Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, the studio has long operated behind closed doors, crafting puppets, costumes and props by hand. The newly launched 80-minute Saturday tours, priced at $150 per person, allow guests to meet puppet builders, watch live puppetry demonstrations and take photos with well-known characters. Creative supervisor Jason Weber said the tours aim to spotlight the highly skilled artisans behind the productions. Workshop director Melissa Creighton added that every creation is custom-made and handcrafted. The tour begins in a specially designed exhibit room featuring props and characters, including Oscar the Grouch in his trash can, a throne from The Dark Crystal and Junior Gorg from Fraggle Rock. The workshop, located in Queens since 2009, is currently producing costumes and props for several projects, including a new “Fraggle Rock” musical near Times Square. Past productions include Five Nights at Freddy's, Where the Wild Things Are and the TV sitcom Dinosaurs.

Toshifumi Suzuki, the Japanese businessman credited with building the global 7-Eleven convenience store empire, has died at the age of 93. Suzuki, honorary adviser to Seven & i Holdings, died of heart failure at his home in Tokyo on May 18, the company announced Monday. He was best known for establishing Japan’s hugely popular 7-Eleven convenience store business, known locally as “conbini.” The stores became an essential part of daily life in Japan, offering quick meals, drinks, snacks and services such as ATM access, utility bill payments and document copying. Today, 7-Eleven operates more than 80,000 stores worldwide and remains Japan’s largest convenience store chain. The business began in Japan in 1973 through a franchise agreement with the American 7-Eleven chain. The first Japanese outlet opened a year later. When the U.S.-based Southland Corp., the original founder of 7-Eleven, faced financial trouble in the 1990s, the Japanese company bought a majority stake. In 2005, the American business became a fully owned subsidiary of Seven & i Holdings. In recent years, Canadian retailer Alimentation Couche-Tard, which operates the Circle K convenience store chain, attempted to acquire Seven & i Holdings. However, the company withdrew its takeover effort in 2024, citing difficulties in negotiations. Born in Nagano Prefecture in 1932, Suzuki graduated from Chuo University in Tokyo. Before entering the convenience store business, he worked at Ito-Yokado, a major Japanese retail chain also owned by Seven & i Holdings. During his long career, Suzuki expanded the company’s business by adding banking services and overseeing the acquisition of Barney’s Japan in 2015. The group also brought department store chains Sogo and Seibu under its umbrella. Suzuki became president of 7-Eleven Japan in 1978 and was widely credited with changing shopping habits in Japan. Convenience stores in the country later became leaders in adopting modern retail technology. The company said funeral services are being held privately with family members. It also requested that no flowers or condolence gifts be sent. A public memorial service will be announced later. Suzuki is survived by his wife and two children.  

Bangla House will make its debut at SXSW London from June 2nd to 4th, 2026, bringing Bangladesh and its global diaspora to one of the world’s most influential platforms for culture, technology, trade, music, art, and innovation. Presented by Amreen Bashir Ali & Tanveer Ali from the Mubarak Ali Foundation, Durjoy Rahman from the Durjoy Bangladesh Foundation, and Ayesha Qureshi MBE & Abdal Ullah from the British Bangladeshi Power & Inspiration in collaboration with SXSW London, Bangla House will take place at the Kobi Nazrul Centre on Brick Lane, a landmark institution named after Bangladesh’s National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and a powerful symbol of British Bangladeshi history and identity. SXSW has long served as a global meeting point where creators, investors, founders, artists, and leaders come together to shape conversations and build new ideas. Bangla House marks a major moment for Bangladesh and its diaspora, creating a platform dedicated to showcasing Bangladeshi creativity, entrepreneurship, culture, and influence on an international stage. Across three days, Bangla House will feature discussions spanning investment, startups, healthcare innovation, artificial intelligence, fashion, music, media, food, art, and cultural diplomacy. Speakers include Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury, investor Rahat Ahmed, fashion icon Bibi Russell, and Emmy awarded music director, Shams Ahmed along with many others. The programme will also feature performances from leading artists shaping contemporary Bangladeshi and diaspora sound, including Xefer, Surya Sen, and Farooque Bhai Project, to name a few. Bringing together founders, investors, artists, policymakers, and cultural leaders from Bangladesh and across the diaspora, Bangla House reflects a growing confidence in Bangladesh’s creative economy and its ability to contribute meaningfully to global conversations shaping the future. Bangla House at SXSW London is free and open to all. Please join to celebrate Bangladeshi and diaspora talent and power. Follow @banglahouse.sxsw and www.banglahouse.org for more information.

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai made a striking appearance at the closing ceremony of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, wearing an elegant all-white outfit designed by Chinese designer Chene Chan. The festival, which ran from May 12 to May 23, concluded after nearly two weeks of film screenings, celebrity appearances and red-carpet events. Aishwarya’s outfit featured a tailored white pantsuit with embellished lapels, lace-detailed trousers and a feather boa draped over her shoulders, creating a dramatic yet refined look. The ensemble also included a white asymmetrical top with lace accents that complemented the detailing on the trousers.