Dowel Biswas

As the country grapples with the ongoing quota reform protests, starting from July 1 and now on its 14th day, this song serves as a poignant reminder of the power and spirit of resistance. The government's heavy-handed response to peaceful protests, marked by violence and oppressive crackdowns, draws unsettling parallels to the struggles faced by countless others in the pursuit of justice and equality.

To make a film is to tell a story, and when it's a cumulation of collective consciousness, to find common social grounds, values, and ordinary yet telltale stories that create the base of development of human thought and psyche is a perfect example of a much needed social and cultural commentary.

From the heart-wrenching sacrifice of her son during the Liberation War to her relentless pursuit of justice for the thousands of Bengali mothers who also lost their children, Imam's struggle and determination were unwavering. Her fight didn't end with the war; it continued with a revolution aimed at ensuring that the most despicable traitors in Bengali history, the war criminals, faced appropriate punishment. Her unwavering commitment transformed personal tragedy into a national movement for justice and accountability.

A gifted artiste in this domain is lyricist Tushar Hasan, who has penned all the popular songs mentioned above. His contributions have not only defined this emerging trend but have also solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the world of brand anthems.

Humayun Faridee, a luminary of Bangladeshi stages, screens, and television, took his final breath on February 13, 2012, in Dhaka. Yet his physical departure does not signify erasure. His creations and artistry have transcended time, rendering him immortal in the hearts of his admirers. While literal victory over death is unattainable, Faridee achieved a form of immortality through the enduring legacy of his work.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, the eminent artiste talked about his Liberation War days, our independence, theatre activism, his upcoming film projects, and more.

Chowdhury’s contributions go beyond this iconic song and journalism. He was a distinguished storyteller with notable works, including the acclaimed short story collection “Samrat-er Chhobi” (The Emperor’s Picture). He also authored significant novels and plays, consistently emerging as an active progressive writer and political commentator through the twists and turns of history. He was not just an observer of history but an active participant.

As the world commemorates the birth centenary of Kalim Sharafi, his legacy as a cultural icon and activist shines brightly, illuminating the path he forged with unwavering dedication and passion. Born on May 8, 1924 into a family rooted in the village of Khairadihi, West Bengal, Rabindra Sangeet maestro Sharafi's life journey was defined by a profound commitment to using art as a catalyst for social change.

Fakir Alamgir’s life embodies the spirit of May Day — representing both its struggles and triumphs. His lifelong dedication to the rights and welfare of the working class through his music marks him as a true champion of the labourers' cause.

The National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy buzzed with excitement as the inaugural International Disability Art Festival 2024 commenced today, marking a significant milestone in arts and inclusivity.

His rendition of "Shada Shada Kala Kala" marked a turning point, garnering widespread acclaim and affirming his belief that Bangladeshis would embrace him as one of their own if he pursued Bangla music wholeheartedly.

Despite the advent of sound in cinema, Chaplin remained true to his silent roots, continuing to produce silent films even as talkies gained popularity. Films like "City Lights", "The Gold Rush", and "Modern Times" are timeless classics that showcase Chaplin's unmatched ability to entertain and inspire.

The soul-stirring melodies of Bangla songs resonate with the essence of the largely agrarian Bangalee people, weaving tales of joy, hope, aspiration, and the story of our journey as a nation.

Whenever an oppressive force tried to forcefully take their land and rice, the people of this country conjured up such resistance that even the strongest of forces had to retreat.

As the country’s most loved artiste, Rabindra Sangeet legend Sadi Mohammad, took his own life on Wednesday (March 13), around 7pm, two discussions on this untimely death have resurfaced–clasps of depression and grief and the practice of conferring national awards to artistes posthumously.

A trendsetter by his own merit and steadfast promoter of the inclusion of male classical dancers in Bangladesh, Shibli Mohammad is trained by one of the biggest names of classical dancing in South Asia, late Pandit Birju Maharaj, the father of Kathak dance.

In a bid to create that bridge, Standard Chartered Bangladesh (SCB) and Friendship have jointly arranged a photo exhibition to give a glimpse of the people living in sedimentary islands (chars).

Bappa Mazumder devoted his second solo concert to those of his fans who missed the first one, which took place on September 23, 2022. However, seeing hundreds of his fans, from toddlers to 60-year-olds, eagerly waiting for him to sing their favourite songs at the show, the question remains: will the audiences ever get enough of Bappa Mazumder and his songs? The answer is probably no.

The book, exploring the obscured corners of the singer’s life before his rise to fame, has been unveiled at a programme held at the Bishwa Sahitya Kendra Auditorium in the capital on Monday evening.

In the exhibition, the development and changes in the shape of the dolls are represented according to the important time periods of Japan. This can be seen through the shape of the dolls, from the traditional to the collector figure. Not only that, this exhibition also displays “Ningyo” forms and styles with characteristics from each region in Japan.