United News of Bangladesh

A Dubai-based nutritionist has sparked discussion on social media after sharing how her idea of success has changed over the past two decades, saying she eventually became the “rich man” she had hoped to marry when she was 21. Rashi Chowdhary, founder of Nutrition In Sync, reflected on her journey in a recent Instagram post, explaining how her goals and understanding of success evolved with age and experience. “At 21, I wanted to marry a rich man, be a hot housewife, and have two kids,” she said in a video. “Today, I am 41, I am unmarried, I run two different businesses with more than 40 people in it, and I think somewhere along the way, I became the rich man.” Chowdhary said her original plans appeared to be on track when she was 25. At the time, she had a wealthy partner, an apartment in Dubai and a lifestyle many people admired. However, she recalled feeling disconnected from that life despite achieving what she once thought would make her happy. “The funny thing is the original plan actually worked,” she said. “But I still remember thinking, ‘Why does it not feel like my life?’” She said many women grow up feeling pressured either to become attractive enough to be chosen by a successful partner or successful enough to not need one. “We are taught to either be desirable enough so a powerful man can pick you or successful enough so you never need one,” she said. According to Chowdhary, the biggest change in her life came when she realised that her own wishes and goals mattered more than seeking approval from others. “You know what? Realising that what I want for myself comes before any of that has changed me more than marriage, divorce, success, or money ever did,” she said. In the caption accompanying the post, Chowdhary wrote that her life at 41 is neither better nor worse than what she imagined at 21, but simply her own. “The older I get, the more I realise that freedom isn't about rejecting men, marriage, motherhood, ambition, or success. It's about having the courage to decide what you actually want and letting that answer be enough,” she wrote. The post received widespread praise online. Actress Mrunal Thakur commented “Best,” while Dubai-based radio presenter Mariyam Kisat described the message as “so freaking inspiring.” Many social media users also shared supportive comments, saying Chowdhary’s story highlighted how personal goals and definitions of success can change over time. With inputs from NDTV.

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th Independence Day anniversary, competing visions of the celebration are emerging, with President Donald Trump once again positioned at the center of the national spotlight. Inside the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, exhibits already reflect the country’s divided political and cultural journey. A display titled “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness” features contrasting symbols of American life — from Nancy Pelosi’s historic speaker’s gavel and a “Make America Great Again” cap, to an AIDS activism shirt reading “Silence = Death” placed alongside campaign memorabilia from President Ronald Reagan. Museum officials say the collection is meant to show both unity and division in U.S. history. “These contestations often reflect resilience and hope,” said museum director Anthea M. Hartig, noting that American history has repeatedly moved through moments of deep division before rebuilding. Competing visions for the 250th anniversary That idea of unity is now being tested as preparations intensify for the 250th anniversary celebrations. Two main organizing groups have emerged — Freedom 250, which is aligned with the White House, and America 250, a bipartisan commission created by Congress. The parallel efforts have fueled concerns that even a milestone national celebration is becoming politically divided. On the National Mall, preparations are underway for an event called “The Great American State Fair.” Several performers, including country singer Martina McBride, have withdrawn from the lineup, saying they were not aware of the political nature of the event. Trump is scheduled to speak at the event on Wednesday. The split will continue into July Fourth, when America 250 plans a major concert in Los Angeles featuring artists including Chris Stapleton and The Smashing Pumpkins, hosted by Queen Latifah. On the same day, Trump is expected to hold a separate event on the National Mall that he has described as a “Trump rally.” A break from past presidential traditions Past U.S. presidents have used Independence Day milestones to emphasize unity rather than political identity. In 1976, President Gerald Ford spoke at Independence Hall in Philadelphia during the bicentennial celebrations, calling liberty a continuing national effort. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan marked the Statue of Liberty’s centennial in New York Harbor, joking that he would not try to compete with fireworks while highlighting shared national history. Trump’s personal imprint on events Trump, however, has often placed himself at the center of national cultural and political moments. He became the first sitting president to host the Kennedy Center Honors after a board aligned with him appointed him chairman. His name was also briefly added to the venue’s building before a court ruled the move unlawful. In Washington, Trump has overseen or supported several major changes, including demolition of the White House East Wing for a proposed ballroom and plans for a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. He has also hosted events such as a UFC fight at the White House. “Trump is putting himself at the center of the story,” said presidential historian Mark Updegrove. “He does not see himself as a steward of the presidency. He sees himself as its embodiment.” Public mood and national divisions Public sentiment in the U.S. appears subdued ahead of the anniversary. A recent AP-NORC poll found that only about one-quarter of Americans believe the United States stands above all other countries, while around 30% say other nations are better — a notable increase compared to 2016. The survey also shows declining confidence in democratic identity, with fewer Americans now describing a democratically elected government as “extremely” or “very” important to national identity compared to previous years. Growing competition over national celebrations The divided national mood has contributed to a rise in competing cultural and political events. Even major shared moments such as the Super Bowl halftime show have faced parallel or alternative programming following political disagreements. Organizers of Freedom 250 say their goal is to create “a unifying movement across all 50 states,” while America 250 officials say they welcome multiple celebrations. “The more celebrations, the merrier,” said America 250 chair Rosie Rios. “We can’t be all things to all Americans, but we want something for everyone.”

A plan to auction more than 100 artifacts recovered from the wreck of the Titanic has drawn opposition from the U.S. government, according to newly unsealed court documents. The items include personal belongings, currency, kitchenware and decorative objects salvaged from the famous shipwreck in the North Atlantic. RMS Titanic Inc., the company that holds exclusive salvage rights to the Titanic site, is seeking to sell the artifacts for the first time. The company had previously agreed that recovered items would only be displayed in museums and traveling exhibitions. Court filings show the Georgia-based firm also proposed a global touring exhibition in four cities, though the locations have not been disclosed. Among the items listed for possible sale are a bronze cherub, a gold nugget necklace and a heart-shaped pendant. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which represents American oversight of the wreck site, argued in court documents that the proposed auction would violate legal obligations tied to the salvage agreement. A judge unsealed the filings earlier this month. The government said the company “does not seek the Court’s approval, does not believe that approval is required, and asserts that it is not restricted in its ability to sell” the artifacts. RMS Titanic Inc. did not respond to media requests for comment on Monday. In earlier court submissions, its lawyers argued that the proposed sale would not breach existing agreements or court orders. The dispute marks another chapter in long-running efforts to sell Titanic artifacts. Since 1987, salvage teams have recovered thousands of objects, including sections of the ship’s hull. The company earns revenue mainly by exhibiting them. Over the years, attempts to sell parts of the collection have repeatedly faced opposition from U.S. courts, preservation groups and relatives of victims, especially when items are linked to passengers. However, some artifacts not directly tied to the wreck or recovered by survivors have been sold at high prices in recent years. A life jacket worn by a passenger sold for more than $900,000 in April, while a gold pocket watch linked to the ship’s rescue operations fetched nearly $2 million in 2024. Auction houses say demand remains strong due to the global fascination with the Titanic, which sank in 1912 after striking an iceberg on its maiden voyage from Europe to New York, killing more than 1,500 people. The case also reflects a trans-Atlantic legal dispute over ownership and control of the artifacts. Some of the earliest recovered items were taken to France, where authorities granted ownership rights to the salvaging company. French research institute IFREMER worked with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution during the wreck’s discovery. Later recoveries were handled under a U.S. District Court in Norfolk, Virginia, which oversees the broader salvage agreement. NOAA argues that all roughly 5,000 recovered items—regardless of where they were initially claimed—should remain part of a single preserved collection under U.S. court conditions. It also says French court terms required the artifacts to remain together and not be sold individually. The company, meanwhile, has argued that the U.S. court does not have jurisdiction over items claimed in France. Experts and ocean explorers have also expressed concern over the proposed auction, saying Titanic artifacts should remain publicly accessible. Ocean scientist Greg Stone said recovery is acceptable if done carefully and with proper archaeological methods, but added he would prefer a nonprofit approach. Law professor Richard Daynard of Northeastern University said the rules are meant to protect the artifacts for public benefit, warning against turning them into private luxury items. “If it’s something where someone can walk through their house and say ‘Yes, I bought this for $5 million and it’s original from the Titanic,’ that’s not a good thing,” he said.

As World Cup excitement grips Mexico City, an 8-year-old rescue poodle mix named Osito has emerged as one of the tournament’s most beloved figures, winning fans’ hearts with his unique style and daily bike rides. Osito became an internet sensation after arriving at Mexico’s opening match sitting on the back of a cargo bicycle, wearing a national team jersey, sunglasses and a cap. Thousands of supporters heading to the stadium stopped to take pictures, pet him and share videos online, quickly turning him into a viral celebrity. Meet Merlin the duck: Mexico’s street bird becomes unofficial World Cup mascot For owner Jorge Rangel, 50, the attention is not about fame but about the special bond he shares with Osito, whose name means “little bear.” The dog has accompanied Rangel on his daily household product deliveries across Mexico City for the past two years. Rangel rides a specially modified cargo bicycle with Osito resting calmly in the rear compartment and greeting people along the way. Ahead of the World Cup, Rangel spent weeks preparing the dog’s outfit, adjusting sunglasses to fit him and decorating the bicycle. Rangel said the public reaction exceeded his expectations. He believes fans are drawn not only to Osito’s appearance but also to their emotional connection. Rangel adopted Osito during a difficult time in his life and said the dog became a source of comfort and companionship. He recalled that people often tell him seeing Osito has improved their day by bringing smiles and happiness. Although Osito’s videos continue spreading online and fans frequently request photos, the pair still return to their daily routine of riding through Mexico City. For Rangel, the greatest reward is showing the affection and friendship between a person and a pet.

Indian women's cricket star and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana continues to make headlines both on and off the field, with her sprawling 10-acre farmhouse in Maharashtra's Sangli drawing attention for its luxury features and personal touches. Mandhana recently created history by becoming the first player in men's or women's T20 internationals to hit 600 boundaries, helping India secure a victory over the Netherlands in the Women's T20 World Cup. Her success, however, is not limited to cricket. The left-handed opener's farmhouse showcases the rewards of years of dedication and hard work. A video shared by Indian sports broadcaster Jatin Sapru after visiting the property earlier this year offered a glimpse into the impressive estate, which includes a private cricket practice area, training nets, a swimming pool and expansive green surroundings. Mandhana said she had a clear vision for the farmhouse entrance, drawing inspiration from the grand homes often featured in films by Karan Johar and Sooraj Barjatya. "Growing up, I was a fan of Karan Johar and Sooraj Barjatya films, so I wanted a similar style for the entrance," she said. The farmhouse also includes a dedicated practice zone where Mandhana can continue training during breaks from international cricket. Reports suggest the property features a pickleball court decorated with photographs highlighting milestones from her cricket career. One of the standout attractions is the swimming pool area, complete with a waterfall feature and a spiral staircase leading to the upper floor. Mandhana said her brother's children particularly enjoy spending time in the pool. When Sapru visited the property, parts of the farmhouse were still under construction. However, a photograph shared in April showing Mandhana standing in front of the completed entrance quickly went viral on social media, with many users describing it as proof that "dreams do come true." The luxurious farmhouse has become another symbol of Mandhana's remarkable journey from a young cricket enthusiast to one of India's most successful and admired athletes. Source: NDTV

As the Obama Presidential Center opening prepares to open its doors on June 19 in Chicago, historians are once again reflecting on how US presidential libraries preserve both history and personality. For historian Geoffrey Ward, visiting the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum feels like stepping directly into the world of former US president Franklin D. Roosevelt. He describes the site as full of personal artefacts that reveal Roosevelt’s wide-ranging interests, from childhood belongings to books and collections that shaped his public life. Since Roosevelt helped establish the modern concept of presidential libraries in the late 1930s, the system has expanded across the United States. These institutions, now overseen in part by the US National Archives and Records Administration, range from large modern complexes to small-town museums, including the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Historian Douglas Brinkley, who has visited most of these libraries, said each site carries a distinct atmosphere reflecting the president it represents. He noted that Roosevelt’s decision to donate his home and papers to the public set a lasting model for preserving presidential history close to where leaders lived and worked. However, experts say presidential libraries often present a carefully shaped version of history. While official archives are managed by federal professionals, museum exhibits are frequently supported by private funding, which can influence how presidents are portrayed. Some critics argue this can lead to a focus on achievements while downplaying controversies. In some cases, disputes have emerged over how sensitive events are presented, including the Watergate scandal at the Richard Nixon library and debates over policy legacies at other sites. Historian Max Boot said archival records are generally handled in a neutral and professional way, but museum displays often highlight positive aspects of a presidency more strongly than failures. Others, like historian Ted Widmer, say there has been gradual improvement in transparency. He pointed to the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library for its willingness to confront controversial issues such as the Vietnam War and historical election disputes linked to former president Lyndon B. Johnson. Widmer said it remains uncertain whether future presidential libraries will continue moving toward greater openness, especially as political divisions deepen, but stressed the importance of presenting history accurately rather than in a simplified or polished form. The new Obama Presidential Center opening has also drawn attention for its design and scale. Located on Chicago’s South Side, the project has faced both praise and criticism, including debate over its architecture and decision not to include a National Archives-managed facility on site. The centre is expected to attract up to one million visitors annually and will include a public library branch, sports facilities, gardens and community spaces. Former US president Barack Obama has been closely involved in shaping its design and features, including recreational areas and reading spaces intended for public use. Supporters say the centre reflects a modern, community-focused approach to presidential legacy, combining historical preservation with public engagement in a more interactive environment.

Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali believes that while young people today can form relationships more easily than previous generations, many are struggling with a growing sense of loneliness and a search for deeper emotional connections. Speaking to NDTV India during promotions for his upcoming romantic drama Main Vaapas Aaunga, Ali said modern relationships often begin quickly but become difficult to sustain. "The tragedy with this generation is that they reach their destination very quickly," he said, explaining that many young people expect relationships to be effortless once they find a partner. However, he noted that challenges often emerge after that point. According to Ali, today's youth are lonelier than earlier generations and are increasingly looking for meaning and stronger emotional bonds in their lives. He said his new film explores this longing for lasting love and stability, adding that many young people admire the kind of romance associated with earlier generations. Actor Vedang Raina, who stars in the film, agreed with the filmmaker's observations. He said he personally desires the type of love portrayed in the movie and believes many people of his generation feel the same way. Raina noted that social media and dating apps have changed the way relationships develop, but many young people still dream of old-fashioned romance, including handwritten love letters and subtle expressions of affection. He said there is a growing nostalgia among young people for deeper, more meaningful relationships, despite living in a highly connected digital world. Directed by Ali, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ also stars Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari and Naseeruddin Shah. The romantic drama is scheduled to be released in cinemas on June 12, 2026.

The enormous earnings of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo continue to highlight the vast financial gap between elite athletes and ordinary professionals. According to estimates, the 41-year-old Portuguese forward earns around $200 million a year from his club contract in Saudi Arabia alone. In Bangladeshi currency, that amounts to roughly Tk 2,400 crore annually, or about Rs 1,600-1,700 crore in Indian currency. Based on a season of around 55 matches for club and country, Ronaldo earns nearly Rs 30 crore every time he steps onto the field. That means a single 90-minute match brings in more money than many companies spend on salaries in an entire year. The comparison becomes even more striking when measured against the income of an average professional. Someone earning Rs 12 lakh a year would need around 2,500 years of work to make what Ronaldo earns from just one match. Ronaldo's wealth extends far beyond his football salary. His estimated net worth is believed to exceed $1 billion, with some estimates placing it at around $1.2 billion, or roughly Rs 10,000 crore. The fortune has been built through more than two decades of top-level football, including club salaries, bonuses, sponsorship agreements, image rights, business investments and income from his massive social media presence. Using the same comparison, a professional earning Rs 12 lakh annually would need more than 83,000 years of income to accumulate wealth equal to Ronaldo's current net worth. Even over a 40-year career, such an employee would earn only a tiny fraction of Ronaldo's fortune. Matching his wealth would require more than 2,000 full working lifetimes. The figures underline the extraordinary financial rewards available at the highest level of global sport, where a single match can generate earnings that would take ordinary workers thousands of years to achieve. Source: NDTV

Colombian superstar Shakira once again stole the spotlight at a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, but her latest anthem ‘Dai Dai’ has already drawn inevitable comparisons with her legendary 2010 hit ‘Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)’. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with thousands of fans gathering to witness the grand opening show. Shakira headlined the ceremony alongside Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, delivering the first live performance of ‘Dai Dai’, the tournament’s official song. The performance featured high-energy choreography, vibrant visuals, colourful dancers and a giant World Cup trophy prop, with Shakira showcasing her trademark stage presence and dance moves. While the show received strong praise from fans, it quickly sparked debate online over whether ‘Dai Dai’ could ever match the cultural legacy of ‘Waka Waka’, which became one of the most iconic World Cup songs in history. Social media users were quick to draw comparisons. Many argued that ‘Waka Waka’ had already cemented itself as the “ultimate World Cup anthem,” with one user writing that although ‘Dai Dai’ is “beautiful,” it can never replace the 2010 hit’s global impact. Others, however, noted that the comparisons themselves highlight Shakira’s rare dominance in World Cup music, pointing out that she also delivered another global hit with ‘La La La (Brazil 2014)’. They said few artists have managed to produce multiple iconic tournament anthems. While ‘Dai Dai’ continues to gain traction across streaming platforms, ‘Waka Waka’ remains a global cultural phenomenon more than a decade after its release. The song’s official music video has crossed 4.5 billion views on YouTube, compared to 126 million views for ‘Dai Dai’, underscoring the enduring legacy of Shakira’s 2010 anthem. With inputs from NDTV

Sonam Kapoor’s signature sense of style is not limited to the red carpet — it also defines the elegant London home she shares with her husband, businessman Anand Ahuja. Celebrated as one of Bollywood’s most fashionable stars, Sonam has built a strong design identity over the years, and that aesthetic is clearly reflected in their thoughtfully curated residence in London. As she turned 41, a closer look at her home reveals a warm, art-filled space shaped with personal touches and global influences. Located in Notting Hill, West London, the home opens into a cosy living room designed for comfort and gatherings. The space features deep forest-green wall panelling paired with cream wallpaper decorated with subtle nature-inspired patterns. Velvet sofas add a soft, luxurious feel, while a chandelier casts a warm glow, making the room suitable for both relaxed reading afternoons and evening get-togethers. The décor carries a classic charm, with ornate silver frames placed across side tables and rich wooden flooring layered with a Persian rug. Colourful seating, including red and yellow sofas, along with a decorative fireplace, adds character and frames family moments in the space. The couple’s bedroom continues the home’s nature-inspired theme, with softer tones and organic textures. A wooden and rattan headboard sits against wallpaper featuring leafy patterns, creating a calm and restful atmosphere. Fresh flowers, framed photographs and carefully placed artwork add a personal touch, while a large art piece near the bed completes the design. The dressing room stands out with hand-carved doors made by Mumbai artisans, adorned with antique floral panels sourced from Paris, according to *Architectural Digest*. In the dining area, a sunflower-yellow accent wall sets a bright tone, complemented by curated artworks and a large window that fills the space with natural light. A rectangular dining table sits at the centre, paired with a sideboard for silverware, while the table décor echoes the artistic elements of the room. With inputs from NDTV