United News of Bangladesh

On a festive Thursday in Sylhet city, a convention hall became the setting for 126 new beginnings—where poor, orphaned, and financially struggling young men and women stepped into married life through a fully sponsored mass wedding. The event brought together couples who, despite being adults ready to start families, had long been unable to marry due to financial hardship. For many of them, the day marked the end of years of uncertainty and the beginning of a shared future. The initiative was funded by Seeds of Sadaqah, a humanitarian organisation led by expatriates in the UK, working to support underprivileged youth. The event was designed not just as a ceremony, but as a complete social support package for newly formed families. Each couple received 77 types of household items worth around Tk 200,000, aimed at helping them begin their new lives with stability and comfort. From kitchen essentials to daily-use necessities, the gifts were intended to ease the early financial pressures of marriage. For many attendees, the atmosphere felt like a “dream wedding,” as described by organisers—filled with celebration, laughter, and a sense of shared hope. Families who had long struggled with poverty found themselves part of a moment that felt both personal and collective. Md. Zainul Abedin, head of Seeds of Sadaqah, said the initiative reflects a broader mission. “Our goal is to create a path of happiness and self-reliance for the underprivileged and helpless people of society. Today’s event is a shining example of that,” he said. Another organiser, Orkatul Jannat, said the support would help instil confidence in the couples as they begin their new journey together. “This assistance will bring new hope and encouragement in their lives at the start of their marriage,” Orkatul Jannat said. Organisers added that they plan to continue similar humanitarian initiatives in the future, aiming to support vulnerable communities and help more young people overcome financial barriers to marriage. For the 126 couples, however, the day was not about statistics or organisation names—it was about stepping into a shared future, surrounded by celebration, dignity, and a rare sense of relief.

A new social media trend dubbed “becoming Chinese” is gaining global attention, with young people increasingly embracing elements of Chinese lifestyle and culture. In recent months, many users in their 20s have been posting videos showing how they are adopting habits seen as typically Chinese. These include drinking hot water with goji berries, eating dumplings, wearing slippers indoors, or visiting China and praising its modern cities. The trend, often referred to as “Chinamaxxing,” has attracted millions of views online. China has long tried to boost its global influence through cultural diplomacy, but this viral trend appears to be achieving what official efforts could not. Even Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng recently mentioned the phenomenon while promoting a visa-free transit policy and encouraging Americans to visit China. The trend reflects a broader rise in the global popularity of Chinese culture, products and everyday practices. Experts say this growing appeal shows how China is gaining “soft power” — influence through culture and lifestyle rather than politics or military strength. Shaoyu Yuan, a professor at New York University, said Chinese culture is becoming more familiar and widely accepted worldwide through entertainment, consumer products and daily habits. China’s influence is supported by its strong position in industries such as manufacturing, social media and consumer goods. Its tech platforms, including the algorithms behind TikTok, and competitive local brands are helping spread Chinese culture globally. However, the trend has also sparked debate, particularly among Chinese communities in the West. Some say the sudden popularity of Chinese culture does not erase past discrimination. Elise Zeng, a Chinese American from New York, said many people still remember facing racism, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when Asians were targeted over the virus. She said such experiences cannot be overlooked simply because Chinese culture is now considered trendy. Others see the trend more positively. Sherry Zhu, a social media user whose videos helped popularize the meme, said cultural exchange can help reduce misunderstandings and build greater appreciation over time. The growing interest in Chinese culture is also linked to the success of its entertainment and consumer industries. Products like Labubu dolls, music by Chinese artists and major releases such as the animated film “Ne Zha 2” and the video game “Black Myth: Wukong” have gained international popularity. Digital tools like Chinese map apps are also attracting attention for their advanced features, further boosting the country’s cultural reach. While China’s government has long promoted its global image through initiatives like the Belt and Road project and Confucius Institutes, these efforts have faced criticism in some countries. Experts say cultural influence is more effective when it spreads naturally rather than through official promotion. “Cultural influence travels further when people choose it themselves,” Yuan said.

With rising temperatures, high humidity and strong sun exposure, skincare needs extra care during summer to prevent excess oil, breakouts, dehydration and sun damage. Dermatologist Surbhi Balani has shared eight easy and effective tips to help maintain healthy and glowing skin throughout the season. Use a salicylic acid cleanser in the shower: It helps deeply clean pores and prevent body acne. Add niacinamide to your morning routine: This ingredient controls excess oil, reduces redness and keeps the skin balanced in hot weather. Use anti-dandruff shampoo as a body wash: Its active ingredients can help treat body acne caused by heat and sweat. Choose blotting paper instead of overwashing: It helps manage oil without damaging the skin’s natural barrier. Apply ceramide lotion after swimming: Chlorine can dry out the skin, and ceramide-based lotions help restore moisture and repair damage. Use sunscreen spray for easy reapplication: Regular reapplication is essential, and sprays or mists make it more convenient, even over makeup. Try benzoyl peroxide wash: It helps reduce bacteria and prevents body acne, especially in sweat-prone areas. Wear UPF clothing: Lightweight protective clothing can provide additional defence against harmful sun rays. These simple, expert-backed tips can help keep skin fresh, clear and protected during the summer months.  #By NDTV

A Parisian art enthusiast could hardly believe his luck after winning a Pablo Picasso painting worth about $1 million with a $117 raffle ticket. “How do I check that it’s not a hoax?” said Ari Hodara, 58, after organizers called him following the draw at Christie’s auction house in the French capital. Hodara, a sales engineer who describes himself as an art amateur fond of Picasso, said he bought the ticket over the weekend after learning about the charity raffle by chance during a restaurant meal. “First, I will tell the news to my wife, who has yet to return from work,” he said. “And at first, I think I’ll take advantage of it and keep it.” The prize was Picasso’s Head of a Woman, a 1941 gouache-on-paper portrait of his longtime muse and partner Dora Maar, featured in the third edition of the “1 Picasso for 100 euros” lottery. Organizers said all 120,000 tickets were sold worldwide, raising 12 million euros ($14 million). Of that, 1 million euros will go to the Opera Gallery, which owned the painting. Gallery founder Gilles Dyan said the work was offered at a preferential price, below its public valuation of 1.45 million euros. The charity raffle, run by the Alzheimer Research Foundation, supports Alzheimer’s research and is based in a major Paris hospital. It has become France’s leading private funder of Alzheimer-related medical research since its founding in 2004. Previous editions of the raffle have raised millions for cultural and humanitarian causes, including programs in Lebanon and Africa.

Fatou the gorilla, the world’s oldest gorilla living in captivity, marked her 69th birthday on Monday with a special feast at Berlin Zoo, enjoying cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks and lettuce. Zoo officials said no birthday cake was served as sugar is not considered healthy for the ageing primate. Fatou, a western lowland gorilla, was brought to then West Berlin in 1959 when she was believed to be around two years old, although her exact birth date remains unknown. April 13 has been designated as her official birthday. In the wild, gorillas typically live 35–40 years, while those in captivity can live significantly longer. She became the zoo’s oldest resident in 2024 following the death of Ingo the flamingo, who was believed to be at least 75 years old and had lived at the zoo since 1955. According to Guinness World Records, Fatou is believed to have been born in the wild in western Africa before being taken by a French sailor, who reportedly traded her in Marseille to settle a bar bill. She was later sold to the Berlin Zoo by a French animal trader. Now living in a separate enclosure, Fatou prefers to stay apart from the zoo’s other gorillas in her old age. She has lost her teeth and suffers from arthritis and hearing loss. However, Berlin Zoo primate supervisor Christian Aust said she remains friendly with keepers, though still somewhat stubborn. At 69, she continues to be well cared for as staff wished her a warm “Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Fatou.”

Ancient grains like quinoa and spelt are often promoted as healthier alternatives to modern grains, but scientists say the benefits may not be as clear as widely believed. Ancient grains refer to crops that have changed very little over hundreds or even thousands of years. Unlike modern grains such as wheat, which have been developed through selective breeding, these older varieties have largely kept their original genetic traits. Recently, they have gained popularity, with many claims suggesting they are richer in nutrients. However, experts say there is limited evidence to prove that ancient grains are significantly better for health than modern ones. Grains such as rice, wheat, oats and corn form a major part of diets worldwide, providing carbohydrates, fibre and some protein. Nutritionists recommend that at least half of the grains people consume should be wholegrains. These include all parts of the grain – bran, germ and endosperm – and are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals. Wholegrains have been linked to a lower risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and certain cancers. But researchers caution that these benefits may also be influenced by overall healthier lifestyles among people who eat more wholegrains. Ancient grains differ from modern ones mainly in how they have been cultivated. Modern crops have been bred over time for higher yields and better taste, while ancient grains remain closer to their original forms. Examples include spelt and emmer, which date back thousands of years. Despite their historical value, ancient grains are not widely grown today, as modern varieties are more productive and easier to farm. They are also more suitable for making foods like bread. One clear advantage of some ancient grains is that they are naturally gluten-free. For example, quinoa and millet can be suitable options for people with gluten intolerance. Some studies also suggest quinoa may help improve early signs of type 2 diabetes, such as lowering blood sugar levels. Even so, researchers say there is little proof that modern farming has reduced the overall nutritional quality of grains in a major way. Experts believe the growing popularity of ancient grains is partly driven by hype. While they can be beneficial in certain cases, especially for those avoiding gluten, their overall health advantages may not be significantly different from modern grains. Instead, nutritionists suggest that the key to a healthy diet is eating a variety of grains, particularly wholegrains, rather than focusing only on whether they are ancient or modern. “Variety is the best strategy,” experts say, noting that consuming different types of grains helps ensure a wide range of nutrients. With inputs from BBC

The Strait of Hormuz has been drawing global attention due to rising tensions that have disrupted shipping along one of the world’s most important oil routes. This narrow waterway carries a large share of global energy supplies, meaning any disruption quickly affects oil prices and international politics. But scientists say the existence of this critical passage is linked to an ocean that vanished millions of years ago, known as the Tethys Sea. Around 250 million years ago, Earth looked very different, with two massive landmasses, Laurasia in the north and Gondwana in the south, separated by the Tethys Sea. Over time, shifting tectonic plates reshaped the planet. The Arabian Plate gradually moved north and collided with the Eurasian Plate, causing parts of the Tethys Sea to shrink. This collision formed the Zagros Mountains in present-day Iran and squeezed the remaining water into a narrow channel, now known as the Strait of Hormuz. Today, the strait stands as a remnant of that ancient ocean, linking the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. The same ocean also played a key role in forming the Himalayas, located thousands of kilometres to the east. About 50 to 40 million years ago, the Indian Plate collided with the Eurasian Plate. Instead of one plate sliding beneath the other, both crumpled due to their thickness. Sediments from the floor of the Tethys Sea, including limestone and marine deposits, were pushed upward over time, creating the Himalayan mountain range. This is why marine fossils can still be found high in the Himalayas, including near the summit of Mount Everest, showing that these rocks were once part of an ocean floor. Experts say the Tethys Sea disappeared gradually over millions of years, but left behind very different features. In the west, it formed the narrow and strategically important Strait of Hormuz, while in the east, it gave rise to the world’s highest mountain range. Despite their distance, both the strait and the Himalayas share a common geological origin rooted in the same ancient ocean. With inputs from NDTV

The late Queen Elizabeth II believed the monarch had to be seen to be believed. And she made sure that was true even when Britain’s famously changeable weather intervened, pioneering the use of a clear plastic raincoat so that a stodgy black umbrella didn’t obscure her from public view. That raincoat is one of some 300 garments and other fashion artifacts that go on display Friday at the King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace in an exhibit that celebrates the late queen’s life and reign as Britain prepares to mark the centenary of her birth. The most comprehensive exhibition of her style choices ever mounted, the show charts Elizabeth’s story, and her impact on British fashion. “I think she had a definite sense of what suited her,’’ exhibition curator Caroline de Guitaut said. “She absolutely knew how she wanted to appear.” An Olympian moment Some of the items are easily recognizable since Elizabeth was one of the most photographed people ever. But the ball gowns, tweed suits and trademark headscarves are sometimes strange to see on museum mannequins instead of the queen herself. And then there are the items that are truly one-offs. Like the dress, complete with bloomers, that Elizabeth’s stunt double wore during the opening ceremony for the 2012 London Olympics, when the then-86-year-old queen appeared to parachute into the stadium alongside Daniel Craig in his James Bond persona. To complete the illusion, the queen soon emerged in the stands identically attired. Both dresses, designed by Elizabeth’s longtime dressmaker Angela Kelly, are displayed side by side, though the stunt double’s version has large zipper in back to accommodate the parachute. Fashion connection to the public The exhibition, drawn from some 4,000 items once owned by the queen, explores how fashion became one of her most powerful tools of communication as she evolved from a young princess into Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. That could often be seen in her choice of color and decorative detail, as in the green and white Norman Hartnell gown she chose to wear for the state banquet during her 1961 visit to Pakistan, honoring her hosts by donning their national colors. “The queen had an intimate understanding of how fashion could lend itself to diplomacy, a trait which, while its origins certainly lay in earlier reigns, the queen developed into nothing short of an art form,’’ de Guitaut said. “Color or embellishment communicated messages of respect to her host nation before she had even uttered a word in her speech.” Particularly as she got older, Elizabeth opted to wear bright or distinctive shades during large public events so she could be easily spotted, and visitors could say they had seen the queen. The exhibit also explores the queen’s off-duty wardrobe. The tweed suits she wore at Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s summer retreat in Scotland, are on display alongside clothes for riding, hiking and other outdoor pursuits. There’s a thick woolen coat Kelly designed during Elizabeth’s later years alongside items by Burberry and British designer Hardy Amies. Big occasions, big statement gowns Clothes worn during the many milestones of the queen's long life are also on display, from her christening robe, commissioned by Queen Victoria for the baptism of the future King Edward VII, to dresses she wore for her wedding and coronation. The exhibit also includes sketches and notes that show just how involved the queen was in designing her wardrobe. Naomi Pike, commissioning editor for Elle UK, said the collection finally recognizes Elizabeth’s status as a fashion icon, even though other royals, including her younger sister, the late Princess Margaret, and her daughter-in-law, the late Princess Diana, stole the spotlight during her lifetime. “I think we’re very quick in this day and age to afford people icon status. … It’s thrown around so easily,’’ Pike said. “But I think in the case of the queen, she was an icon and so much of that comes down to having a very strong sense of personal style.’’ On fairy wings While the gowns may be the exhibit’s biggest draw, the show also provides a few surprises. With the task of showing us ‘’what the monarch wore,’’ the curators conjured up a somewhat battered fairy outfit made from a tutu with wings on the back. The piece is a favorite of Cecilia Oliver, a textile conservator at the King’s Gallery, who described it as the “cutest thing in the world." “I think what I love most about it is that it was bought for Elizabeth as a child, and to think of her as this tiny little girl that then grew up into this magnificent woman with all this weight of responsibility on her shoulders, it just feels very, sort of sentimental,’’ Oliver said. Oliver grew almost wistful as she described the months of work on the exhibit and the privilege of handling so many things connected to a person familiar to so many but truly known by so few. “As a conservator, I have a really intimate knowledge of these pieces. I’ve been able to touch them. I’ve been able to smell them. I’ve been able to understand them,’’ she said. “And through that, I felt really close to her.” Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style runs until Oct. 18 at the King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace.  

A small town at the foot of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji is facing unexpected challenges as tourists flock to see cherry blossoms and the mountain’s snow-capped peak. What began with a beautiful photo shared on social media has turned into a source of tension for locals. Visitors eager to capture the perfect shot of Mount Fuji rising behind a red pagoda quickly filled the peaceful streets of Fujiyoshida. Along with the crowds came complaints of traffic jams, litter, and some tourists entering private homes to use toilets or even relieving themselves in front yards. The situation became so severe that city officials canceled this year’s annual cherry blossom festival, originally created a decade ago to promote tourism. Masatoshi Hada, manager of Fujiyoshida’s Economics and Environment Department, said, “This area is primarily an ordinary residential neighborhood, where balancing tourism with the safety of residents’ daily life has become difficult. We decided not to promote a festival that would invite more visitors.” Even without the festival, tourists packed the town on sunny early-April days when cherry blossoms were at their peak. Narrow streets leading to Arakurayama Sengen Park were crowded as visitors lined up to film the world-famous views. In recent years, foreign tourists have exceeded 10,000 per day in the area, a number the city says has “threatened residents’ daily lives.” Overtourism is not unique to Fujiyoshida. Other popular destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto and Kamakura, have faced similar problems, including congested buses and crowded streets. Locals refer to the issue as “tourism pollution,” which has sparked wider debate as Japan seeks to balance economic growth through tourism with community well-being. The government has set a target to increase annual foreign visitors from 40 million to 60 million by 2030, even as some local communities struggle to cope. To manage crowds, Fujiyoshida increased security and restricted vehicle access to the scenic neighborhood, asking visitors to reach the park on foot. Security guard Hiroaki Nagayama said, “Some people buy food at stalls and leave litter behind. I think what’s happening here is a typical example of overtourism.” Residents also expressed mixed feelings. Ninety-three-year-old Hitoshi Mori said, “Having many visitors is good but annoying. It’s too crowded, so I can only shop once a week.” Tourists, meanwhile, continue to enjoy the views despite the crowds and strict rules. Lisa Goerdert from Paris said, “It was amazing. We had only a few minutes to take pictures, but it was worth it.” Overtourism has divided locals. Some have opened businesses like shops, food stalls, and toll parking, while others long for quiet. Masami Nakamura, a school uniform shop owner, said, “I hope tourists respect our rules and manners.” Meanwhile, hotel employee Kyoko Funakubo, who also sells Fuji-themed souvenirs, said the influx has brought new life to previously quiet streets.  

Tiny figurines peek over electrical boxes, float down drainage pipes, and hide in alley nooks, waiting for visitors willing to get on their hands and knees to discover them. Vicki Taylor carefully assembles these miniature scenes in the backroom of a theater she runs with her husband, Rick. In 2020, the couple opened the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum also called "Mississippi's Tiniest Museum"—to bring joy and draw people downtown during the COVID-19 shutdown. Today, the once gray, overlooked alley has become a lively community hub and a unique tourist attraction. "You may come feeling down, but you're going to leave excited," said Brianna Moore, a local who often brings her two sons to the free museum. "My boys love it." What began as a small window display behind Hattiesburg’s Saenger Theater has grown into a miniature wonderland. Visitors can now explore a tiny art gallery, a mini movie theater, colorful murals, a keychain and DVD exchange, a rainbow bridge for pets that have passed away, and even a motion-activated dance corner with music and disco lights. "It was just an average alley, like you see in any town," Taylor said. "It just took looking at it differently to see what it could become." Rick Taylor, executive director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, which operates the museum and theater, said the museum has drawn over 300,000 visitors since opening. According to Visit Hattiesburg CEO Marlo Dorsey, the museum has coincided with a more than 40% growth in the city’s tourism economy. Dorsey credited the rise to city efforts to promote culture, art, and recreation, including a project to paint 100 murals across Hattiesburg. Unique attractions like the Pocket Museum and the nearby Lucky Rabbit vintage store have also helped pull visitors downtown. Tony Lymon, a Hattiesburg resident since 1990 and owner of eYrthBeat Coffee Company near the museum, said he has seen a "monumental rebirth" in the downtown area over the past decade. He believes nearby attractions help bring customers to his shop. The museum has also become a platform for local artists. Gabby Smith, who painted several alley murals, said it gave her confidence to pursue art full-time. Now, she watches her children explore the alley, excitedly asking, "Mommy, did you paint that one too?" "This city believes in art and artists," said Shaw Ingram, who opened Wax Fantastic Records downtown last year. "There's nowhere else I would want to open this business." Back in her workshop, Vicki Taylor reflects on the museum’s unexpected popularity. She once feared it might fade after the pandemic, but now curates constantly changing exhibits. The effort, she said, is worth it to showcase the city she loves. "Hattiesburg is not a beach town, and it doesn't have mountains," she said. "There has to be something to make people stop off the highway."