The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has organised a series of discussions and cultural events to mark Independence Day and Theatre Day, with programmes scheduled across multiple venues.

The controversy centres on Paapa Essiedu, a Black British actor, cast as Professor Severus Snape. In JK Rowling’s books, Snape is described as a pale, thin man with greasy black hair, leading many fans to question the casting choice.

The festive spirit continues into the sixth day of Eid, with Bangladeshi television channels rolling out another packed line-up of films, dramas, music and special programmes. From star-driven blockbusters to light-hearted Eid dramas, here’s what viewers can tune into today.

Amid this success, “Domm” is set to begin its international journey as the first Eid film to screen abroad.

HBO has unveiled the first teaser for its upcoming series based on JK Rowling’s globally popular “Harry Potter” books, offering a fresh look at the wizarding world with a new cast. The first season adapts “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”, revisiting the early days of Harry’s journey at Hogwarts.

Two years after their marriage, actress Mousumi Hamid and writer-playwright Abu Sayeed Rana are going their separate ways. The couple, who tied the knot on January 12, 2024, are no longer living together and are moving toward separation.

Holding candles in their hands, the performers raised their voices in unison, presenting a series of timeless songs including “O Alor Pothojatri”, “Nahi Bhoy Nahi Bhoy”, “Dukkhe Amar Poran Kande”, and “Aguner Poroshmoni”.

Bulletins told listeners what was happening; songs suggested why it mattered, sometimes signalling the freedom fighters on safer roads, and information that would be crucial to win the Liberation War.

The actor, who rose to prominence with “Poramon 2” and has since built a steady run in Bangladeshi cinema, returns this Eid with “Rakkhosh”. Following its release, he visited three theatres to witness audience reactions up close—an experience he describes as both energising and deeply personal.

Bangladeshi singer-composer Armeen Musa is set to perform in Shanghai on March 26 at the renowned live music venue The Pearl, with a special tribute planned for legendary folk artiste Abbasuddin Ahmed.

A reimagined version of the iconic patriotic song “Prothom Bangladesh” is set to be released on March 26, coinciding with Bangladesh’s Independence Day. The release also marks the debut project of Fireworx, a newly launched music and creative production platform.

Actor Faruque Ahmed, widely known for his work in numerous dramas and films by Humayun Ahmed, has chosen not to celebrate his birthday, which falls on March 25.

Redoan Rony’s film “Domm”, released this Eid, features Afran Nisho in the role of Shahjahan Islam Noor. On Monday (March 23) evening, the cast and crew appeared on Prothom Alo’s special programme “Tarar Eid”, streamed live on its Facebook and YouTube platforms. Nisho, along with director Rony, actress Puja Chery, and producer Shahriar Shakil, spoke about the film in an informal discussion.

The special premiered on March 24 on Disney+ and Hulu.

The production serves as both a commemorative performance and a protest against ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which Swapnadal describes as unjust.

The live broadcast from Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square reached Netflix's weekly Top 10 in 80 countries and secured the number one spot in 24 countries

Mehedi Hassan Hridoy’s dark thriller “Rakkhosh”, starring Siam Ahmed, hit theatres during Eid-ul-Fitr and has quickly gained momentum among moviegoers.

Amidst ongoing online debates, memes, and mockery, the five mainstream films that have been released have found their target audiences.

From star-studded telefilms and popular movies to festive magazine shows and special series, the day promises entertainment for audiences of all ages.

Directed by Tanim Noor, the film features Sabila Nur in the role of Chitra, a performance that has garnered widespread appreciation.