Lifestyle
‘My Language My Pride’: Curtain falls on international group art exhibition
Mahfuz Canvas, an art organisation based in Bangladesh, held a three-day international group art exhibition, titled "My Language, My Pride" at Dhanmondi's Safiuddin Shilpalay from February 19 to 21, commemorating the spirit of International Mother Language Day.
The exhibition featured works by 75 Bangladeshi and 16 international artists representing various nationalities, including India, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Syria, the Philippines, Iran, Lebanon, Egypt, Italy, Canada, and Pakistan.
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Professor Mohammad Eunus, artist and Chairman of the Art Bangla Foundation, inaugurated the exhibition on February 19. Md Muniruzzaman, painter and Executive Director of Gallery Chitrak, joined as the special guest, while artist and art critic Zahid Mustafa joined the event as the guest of honour.
"Our mission at Mahfuz Canvas is to empower and uplift self-taught Bangladeshi artists, ensuring they receive equitable opportunities to showcase their talents on a global scale," said Mahfuzur Rahman, founder of Mahfuz Canvas.
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"Through our online community, 'Obscure Artists,' established in 2018, we have cultivated a thriving network of 150,000 dedicated members. With Mahfuz Canvas, we aspire to further foster the growth and development of these exceptionally talented artists,” he added.
Mahfuz Canvas serves as a dedicated platform for underprivileged, self-taught Bangladeshi artists, offering them a unique opportunity to garner national and international acclaim.
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Since its inception, Mahfuz Canvas has organised 15 international exhibitions in UAE, Qatar, India, US along with sponsoring over 15 art exhibitions and events.
These initiatives have earned widespread recognition and admiration within the global art community, solidifying Mahfuz Canvas as a prestigious platform for artists to showcase their exceptional talents.
‘Learning from Old Dhaka’: Nasrul Hamid and French Ambassador inaugurate cultural showcase
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid together with French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy on Wednesday evening opened an exhibition, titled “Learning from Old Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Traditions.”
Alliance Francaise de Dhaka and Hamidur Rahman Cultural Centre in Zinzira, Keraniganj jointly hosted the exhibition.
At the beginning, the French Ambassador paid tribute to the martyrs of the Language Movement marking the International Mother Language Day.
She wholeheartedly thanked State Minister Nasrul Hamid for hosting the beautiful exhibition at Hamidur Rahman Cultural Center which she visited for the first time.
Ambassador Masdupuy recalled renowned architect Marina Tabassum who designed the Cultural Centre.
“This exhibition is the result of a yearlong project launched by Alliance Française of Dhaka in cooperation with architecture students coming notably from France (École de la Villette) and Bangladesh (BUET), showcasing the very rich and peculiar history of Puran Dhaka (Old Dhaka) through its architecture and the life and activity around the Buriganga,” she said.
“It's here also that Farashganj is located, the old French merchants’ settlement, and also where the ancestors of the state minister established themselves three hundred years ago," the Ambassador said.
She concluded by applauding the two French artists who showed them an extraordinary performance with a group of Buriganga coolies about all the industrial and handicraft landscape in Zinzira.
Zinzira, nestled on the southern fringes of Dhaka by the Buriganga River, is known for its small industries that serve as the city's backbone. This exhibition not only celebrates the architectural and cultural heritage of Old Dhaka but also fosters a dialogue between the past and the present, showcasing the potential for traditional practices to inform future urban living.
The two-week-long architectural exhibition will continue till March 10 at Hamidur Rahman Cultural Centre of Keraniganj.
State Minister Nasrul Hamid said the topics they explored were the endangered heritage of Old Dhaka, circular economy, urban agriculture, public space allocation systems and the corporate culture of Old Dhaka.
He also said their excellent work will help Bangladeshi architects understand heritage of Dhaka better and use these as reference.
The exhibition is the outcome of a two-week architectural research study by a group of architecture students from the universities of ENSA, Paris la Villette; BUET, Dhaka; BVCOA, Navi Mumbai; C.A.T., Trivandrum; and Mokpo University, South Korea.
They split into several working groups to investigate endangered heritage, circular economy, urban agriculture, innovation as part of traditional activities, informal sectors, public space distribution, and corporate culture in Puran Dhaka (Old Dhaka).
Amid its rapid growth, Dhaka risks losing its architectural and living heritage.
An intricate relationship exists between Puran Dhaka and the river Buriganga, and this field workshop will explore this relationship and highlight the various aspects of living heritage still thriving in the old labyrinths of the city.
A team of 44 students and 12 mentors worked together to map and document these aspects of the old city.
Organisers say the study encompasses various elements, including the evolution of Bara Katra from a residential area in Mughal times to an economic hub for the neighbourhood, albeit losing its original purpose.
It explores the hierarchy of public open spaces in the Armanitola neighbourhood and delves into the traditional craft of Shankhari bangle-making by learning from Shankhari artisans.
Additionally, it examines the preservation of Bangla culture in Tanti Bazar, where the sheen of gold contributes to the swift transformation of the built heritage, they say.
The study also highlights the enduring literary and cultural legacy in Bangla Bazar, the presence of Gol Talab as a rare oasis in densely populated Puran Dhaka, and the changes in the mansions of Zamindars in Mongolabash. Finally, it delves into the wood-to-paper connections in the Farashganj neighbourhood, they say.
The opening was followed by a performance art titled “Gaaner Kuli.”
Enthusiasts can visit the exhibition from 10am to 5pm daily.
Joydul Hossain, Rafiqul Islam receive Golam Mustafa Recitation Award 2024
Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad awarded 'Golam Mustafa Recitation Medal 2024' to Jaidul Hossain and Rafiqul Islam, in recognition of their contribution to organizational recitation practice in the country.
On Tuesday evening, the organization handed over the awards to the recipients at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy's National Art Gallery auditorium, celebrating the eve of the International Mother Language Day and awarding the Golam Mustafa Recitation Award 2024 and the Brishti-Dola Memorial Award for the years 2022 and 2023.
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Ahkam Ullah, General Secretary of Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad, said in his welcome speech, "Through the Golam Mustafa Recitation Award, we honour such meritorious persons who have been working tirelessly for the development of organizational recitation practice for a long time; and the Brishti-Dola Memorial Award is mainly given to young promising people, who are the door of possibilities before us.
Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad President and eminent cultural personality Asaduzzaman Noor introduced this year’s recipients of the awards and handed the awards to the recipients. "It is now important to work with our children at the grassroots level, to make them understand the value of our independence. We are constantly fighting the opposition forces of the Liberation War, while we move forward in building a non-communal Bangladesh,” he said at the event.
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Ekushey Padak-winner recitation artist Bhashwar Banerjee handed over the cheques to the recipients, while Ghulam Quddus, President of Sammilita Sanskritik Jote, and Ekushey Padak-winning recitation artist Shimul Mustafa were present on the occasion.
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Self-care Tips for Parents of Newborns
Welcoming a newborn into the family is undoubtedly a joyous occasion, but it also comes with its share of challenges and adjustments. New parents often find themselves having sleepless nights, with endless diaper changes, and the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a tiny, fragile human being. Amid these changes, parents often neglect their equally important well-being. But self-care for parents is essential. Let's take a look into some self-care tips for new mums and dads.
What is Self-Care?
Self-care for parents of newborns involves intentional actions to preserve their physical and emotional well-being amid the challenges of early parenthood. It encompasses activities that promote rest, nutrition, and emotional resilience.
Self-care acts as a protective shield. From prioritising quality sleep to maintaining a balanced diet, self-care is vital for navigating the demanding responsibilities of caring for a newborn.
Read more: 10 Ways to Ensure Emotional Well-being during Pregnancy
Why is it Essential for New Parents to Take Care of Themselves
The physical toll of caring for a newborn is undeniable. Lack of sleep, irregular eating patterns, and constant physical demands can lead to exhaustion and potential health issues. Prioritising self-care ensures parents can maintain the physical stamina needed for the demanding tasks at hand.
Emotional well-being is equally crucial. The rollercoaster of emotions that accompany parenthood, from joy to frustration, can be overwhelming. Taking time for self-care enables parents to recharge emotionally, fostering a healthier mindset to face the challenges with resilience.
Essential Tips for Caring Parents of Newborns
Prioritise Quality Sleep
Ensuring sufficient, quality sleep is crucial for both physical and mental well-being, especially as new parents grapple with inevitable sleep deprivation. To make a significant difference, one should create a sleep schedule that allows for restful nights.
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Parents may consider taking turns with their partner during nighttime duties to maximise the quality of their rest. This approach not only fosters a supportive partnership but also ensures both parents have opportunities for uninterrupted and rejuvenating sleep amidst the demands of caring for a newborn.
Delegate Responsibilities
Due to traditional mindsets and patriarchal social systems, in many families, the care of a newborn and doing household chores are granted as the mother's sole responsibility. It may deteriorate the mother’s emotional and physical health. As a result, many mothers suffer postpartum depression. Therefore, it is necessary to recognise that the mother of the baby need not shoulder everything alone; seeks the aid of her partner, family, and friends.
The new parents and other family members can share diverse responsibilities like household chores, cooking, cleaning, etc. Delegating responsibilities eases the burden and also grant parents precious moments to concentrate on both nurturing their newborn and tending to their well-being.
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Building a supportive network ensures that the challenges of early parenthood are shared. It fosters a healthier and more balanced environment for both parents and their new addition to the family.
AFD hosts classical music concert featuring Maxime Zecchini, Isabelle Durin
Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) hosted an exquisite evening of classical music featuring the renowned French pianist Maxime Zecchini and the accomplished violinist Isabelle Durin on Sunday, February 18 at its Dhanmondi premises.
This unique collaboration between pianist Maxime Zecchini and violinist Isabelle Durin brought together their artistry, creating a harmonious blend that captivates audiences.
The concert traversed a diverse musical landscape, offering a rich tapestry of emotions and artistic expression, according to a press release.
Maxime Zecchini, a graduate of the Paris and Lyon Conservatories, holds the distinction of being the first French pianist to complete his studies at the renowned “Incontri col Maestro” Academy in Imola, Italy.
He has achieved numerous accolades, including winning the Arcachon International Competition, being a laureate of the Cziffra Foundation, and being awarded the prestigious First Prize at the International Competition of Varenna – Lake Como in Italy, all through unanimous decisions.
He has been invited to perform in about fifty countries: tours in Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Japan, South Africa, Australia, Russia, Central America.
He has performed in recital or concert repertoire, which is as sensitive as it is virtuous and spectacular at the Beijing Opera, the Shanghai Opera, the Kyiv Philharmonic, the Malaysian National Symphony Orchestra, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and elsewhere.
Maxime Zecchini is also a recipient of scholarships from the Marcel Bleustein Blanchet Foundation, the Meyer Foundation and the Société Générale Musical Patronage. He has been accredited by the Mission du Centenaire and supported by the Bru Zane Foundation of Venice.
Violinist Isabelle Durin completed her studies at the Conservatoire de Versailles under the guidance of Alexandre Brussilovsky. She then obtained her diploma at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Lyon, studying with Jean Estournet and Kazimierz Olechowski. Continuing her education, she pursued chamber music at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Paris, studying with Alain Meunier and Michel Strauss.
Besides her musical education, she has also achieved a DEA in Philosophy from Sorbonne University. Her passion for symphonic music has also brought her to the Orchestre National d’Ile-de-France and the prestigious stage of Philharmonie de Paris.
In addition to her many qualities as a performer, she has extended her passion as artistic director of the “Les Harmonies Estivales” festival and now at the Motte-Tilly festival. With pianist Michael Ertzschield, Isabelle Durin released the Mémoire et Cinéma CD in 2018, based on a selection of films on Jewish culture, which has enabled her to meet a wide range of audiences.
Brac Bank Reading Café book ‘Protishwor’ published at Boi Mela
A first in Bangladesh, a book written by a group of literary enthusiast bankers, has hit the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela.
This is the first book written by reading club members of a bank in Bangladesh, according to a press release.
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Brac Bank Reading Café has published the book “Protiswor”, a diverse collection of 67 short stories, poems, essays, travelogues, and satires penned by 57 co-workers of the bank, it said.
According to Brac Bank, the book is dedicated to the martyrs of the Language Movement of 1952. Published by Rochoita Publishers, the book is available at stall-590 at the Bangla Academy Book Fair and also at renowned book stores.
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The book has been edited by a panel of Brac Bank Reading Café members led by Ekram Kabir, Head of Communication of the bank. Illustrated and designed by Lutful Hossain, the 224-page book costs Tk 300, said the release.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the book, the bank’s Managing Director and CEO Selim RF Hussain said: “I am elated to share that our colleagues have put their efforts together to publish a book. This feat has made the entire BRAC Bank Family immensely proud."
“At BRAC Bank, we create an environment where our colleagues can nurture creativity at a professional level and in personal space,” he added.
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The book's publishing epitomises the passion, hard work and enthusiasm of a group of bibliophiles at BRAC Bank who worked day and night to make this a reality, the release said said.
The bank’s reading circle was formed by a group of book enthusiasts who are passionate about literature and encourage collaboration and critical thinking among their coworkers.
Each month, the Reading Cafe members read one book and come together to discuss various aspects of it.
The Reading Café is a testament to the institution's dedication to nurturing a holistic and intellectually stimulating work environment, it said.
By bridging the gap between the financial industry and the literary world, BRAC Bank aims to inspire a more enlightened, thoughtful, and well-rounded community of professionals.
The creation of this book club aligns with Brac Bank's commitment to fostering personal and professional growth and improving work culture.
Shopping in Singapore: What to Buy, Where to Buy from
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore stands as a cosmopolitan hub that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Amidst its towering skyscrapers and cultural landmarks, the city-state offers an incredible shopping experience that caters to every taste and preference. This article will explore the bustling markets, luxurious malls, and hidden gems that make shopping in Singapore an unparalleled experience.
Most Popular Shopping Malls in Singapore
ION Orchard
ION Orchard is situated in the heart of Orchard Road standing as a luxurious shopping haven. This stylish architectural marvel illuminates like a futuristic beacon, drawing fashion enthusiasts and luxury shoppers. With flagship stores of global brands, it beckons those in pursuit of high-end fashion, exquisite jewellery, and sophisticated lifestyle products.
VivoCity
VivoCity, situated on the HarbourFront, is the largest shopping mall in Singapore, boasting over 300 stores. Renowned for its diverse offerings, it features top-notch fashion brands, entertainment choices, and a breathtaking rooftop view. VivoCity is aptly labelled as a shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle hub rolled into one.
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Curtain rises on ‘Learning from Puran Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Heritage’ at AFD
On Friday, an architecture exhibition titled ‘Learning from Puran Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Heritage’ began at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) in the capital’s Dhanmondi.
Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union in Bangladesh Charles Whiteley, Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy, and Antonio Alessandro, Italian Ambassador in Bangladesh, were present at the inauguration ceremony.
Thijs Woudstra, Chargé d'affaires at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Bangladesh and Prof Dr Khandaker Shabbir Ahmed, President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh also joined the event.
This exhibition is the outcome of a two-week architectural research study by a group of architecture students from the universities of ENSA, Paris la Villette; BUET, Dhaka; BVCOA, Navi Mumbai; C.A.T., Trivandrum; and Mokpo University, South Korea.
They split into several working groups to investigate endangered heritage, circular economy, urban agriculture, innovation as part of traditional activities, informal sectors, public space distribution, and corporate culture in Puran Dhaka.
Amid its rapid growth, Dhaka risks losing its architectural and living heritage. An intricate relationship exists between Puran Dhaka and the river Buriganga, and this field workshop will explore this relationship and highlight the various aspects of living heritage still thriving in the old labyrinths of the city, according to the organizers.
A team of 44 students and 12 mentors worked together to map and document these aspects of the old city. This study encompasses various elements, including the evolution of Bara Katra from a residential area in Mughal times to an economic hub for the neighbourhood, albeit losing its original purpose.
It explores the hierarchy of public open spaces in the Armanitola neighbourhood and delves into the traditional craft of Shankhari bangle-making by learning from Shankhari artisans. Additionally, it examines the preservation of Bangla culture in Tanti Bazar, where the sheen of gold contributes to the swift transformation of the built heritage.
The study also highlights the enduring literary and cultural legacy in Bangla Bazar, the presence of Gol Talab as a rare oasis in densely populated Puran Dhaka, and the changes in the mansions of Zamindars in Mongolabash. Finally, it delves into the wood-to-paper connections in the Farashganj neighbourhood.
The efforts of this extensive and informative research project can be explored at the exhibition open to all at La Galerie till Friday, February 23, from 3pm to 9pm every day.
The opening was followed by a performance art titled ‘Gaaner Kuli’.
Rooftop Restaurants in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur for Delicious Food and Instagram Photos
Are you looking for an Instagrammable place to spend some quality time with good food while taking in the view of the city from a considerable height? In this bustling city of Dhaka, a rooftop restaurant can be a beautiful getaway that offers a glimmering view of the skyline and a serene escape from the crowded streets below. Located in Dhaka’s north, Mohammadpur has several Instagram-worthy rooftop restaurants with enchanting views and a cozy laid-back atmosphere. Let’s check them out.
6 Instagrammable Rooftop Restaurants at Mohammadpur in Dhaka
Rainforest Café
Rainforest Café is another great option for rooftop dining with friends and family. The café is located on Tajmahal Road right on the main street. The management undertook renovations recently to revamp the look of the café. There’s a large indoor sitting area perfect for large groups. Adjacent to that is the kid’s play area.
The outdoors has been tastefully decorated with trees, shrubs, and a fish aquarium. Each table has been made into a hut-like structure giving it a forest-like look.
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The café serves oriental, Chinese, and Italian cuisines. There’s a curated Chinese platter for students as well.
Rainforest Café remains open from 11 AM to 11 PM every day.
Garden SHIP
Located on Taj Mahal Road, Garden SHIP is your typical family restaurant with a great ambiance. The restaurant is beautifully designed to give it a ship-like look on the inside. The large spacious indoor seating is perfect for group or family dine-outs.
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The back of the restaurant has their cozy rooftop section. It offers a beautiful view overlooking the greenery of the Dhaka Residential Model College.
Garden SHIP has a wide variety of menus. From Thai, Chinese, Indian to seafood, the restaurant offers something for everyone. The operating hours are from 11 AM to 11 PM every day.
Spicy6
Spicy6 is located on Ring Road, Mohammadpur. The restaurant is famous among the locals for its Thai, Chinese, Oriental, and South Asian cuisines. Spicy6 offers great indoor and outdoor arrangements with faux grass and overhead shades.
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BSA welcomes Falgun in style, bids farewell to the Pitha Ustab
Netizens in the capital observed a joyful Wednesday as Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) celebrated the festive occasion of Pahela Falgun with its "Bawshonto Utsab" through jovial arrangements.
Concurrently, the esteemed national cultural organization also bid farewell to its much-acclaimed ‘Jatiya Pitha Utshab 1430’ (National Rice Cake Festival) on Wednesday.
The festivities of the day began with a special dance recital titled ‘Bawshanto Nrittyo’ in the capital’s Ramna Park at 3:30 pm with 225 dance artists. A festive procession was then brought out towards the BSA premises after that, joined by an approximate number of 300 artists representing different cultural genres.
Minister of Housing and Public Works RAM Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury joined the ‘Bawshonto Utshab’ as the chief guest. Cultural Affairs Secretary Khalil Ahmed was the special guest at the festivities.
The cultural event on the open premises of the academy then featured enthralling musical performances, poetry recitations, dance recitals, and choreography of spring-themed Bengali fashion, presented by the country’s esteemed artists from 4:30 pm onwards.
After enthralling the audiences with the festive offerings, BSA organised the concluding and prize-giving ceremony of this year’s ‘Jatiya Pitha Utshab’ at the open premises of the academy from 8:30 pm.