Bangladesh Entertainment News

Jonakir Alo

2014-03-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

Jonakir Alo is going to release on April 4 featuring Bidya Sinha Mim and Emon. Khalid Mahmud Mithu directed the film based on the story of eminent painter S. M. Sultan. Also starred by Kallyan, Diti, Mita Chowdhuri, Tarik Anam Khan, Korovi Mijan, Gazi Rakayet, Masud Ali Khan and master Farhan.

Music direction by Emon Saha, Ibrar Tipu, Saad and Haider Hossain. Playback singers are Bappa Majumdar, Agun, Porshi, Kona, Ibrar Tipu, Haider Hossain & Nancy, while Rafikuzzaman, Jewel Mahmud, Yusuf Al Mamun & Kabir Bakul written the lyrics.

The film has already been projected at the Melbourne International Film Festival & Jaipur Film Festival of India. It’s an Impress Telefilm production.

Mahire…

2014-02-15T07:20:00.002-08:00

In a very short span of time, Mahi has been catapulted to stardom, having already acted in 9 films, and with more than a dozen in the pipeline. The numbers are a testament to how fast someone in this industry can become popular. At least some of these films will be hopefully very well received by the audience, launching Mahi to the centre of attention of the Bangladeshi film industry. Mahi's filmography is set to become really long in a short period of time, and if she keeps growing like this, it will be a mile long pretty soon.

Mahi made her acting debut with Bhalobashar Rong in 2012. In 2013, Mahi appeared in four films. Her first release was Onnorokom Bhalobasha. Her next release was Pora Mon. So far, Mahi has worked on nine films and five have been released. Her next film was with Bangladeshi Cinema's leading actor Shakib Khan in Bhalobasha Aaj Kal. Four more movies are to be released this year – starting with Agnee, which came out yesterday on Valentine's Day.

Mahi’s filmography & upcoming films:
2012 - Bhalobasar Rong
2013 - Onnorokom Bhalobasha
2013 - Pora Mon
2013 - Bhalobasa Aaj Kal
2013 - Tobuo Bhalobashi
2014 - Agnee
2014 - Ki Darun Dekhte
2014 - Dobir Shaheber Songshar
2014 - Moynamoti
2014 - Desha-The Leader
2014 - Janeman
2014 - Firiye dao Amar prem
2014 - Honeymoon
2014 - Warning

Mahiya Mahi, born in 27 October in Uttara, Dhaka, completed her schooling from Uttara High School and HSC from Dhaka City College with very good results. She is now a second year student of Fashion Designing. A proud and self-proclaimed spoilt brat, she recently switched her university.

Thanar Naam Shonir Akhra

2013-03-05T04:07:00.000-08:00

RTV will air popular daily soap “Thanar Naam Shonir Akhra” tonight. It will be aired at 7:35pm.
The serial, directed by DA Tayeb, was scripted by Fazlur Rahman with the theme concept given by SP Habibur Rahman.
The cast of the serial includes Azizul Hakim, Lutfar Rahman George, Abdul Kader, Tazin Ahmed, Mita Nur, Mimo, Shahriar Nazim Joy, Mir Sabbir, Arefin Shuvo, Zahid Hasan, Apurbo, Shahed Sharif Khan, Hasan Masud, Hasan Imam, Laila Hasan, Tanvin Sweety, Bonya Mirza, Shokh, Sarika, Masum Aziz, Shahiduzzaman Selim, among others.
Story of the serial revolves with various crimes, which take place in Shonir Akhra area in the city. Success stories of police officials and their daily activities of that area are main focal point of this serial.

Nrityanchal will stage Rai Krishna Padabali in Kolkata

2012-12-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Nrityanchal's much acclaimed dance drama "Rai Krishna Padabali" will be staged on 11 December evening at the auditorium of G.D. Birla Sabhaghar, Ballygunge, Kolkata, India. The event is being hosted by "Shatkahon", a leading cultural organisation of Kolkata. Produced by Nrityanchal the dance drama has been written by a Bangladeshi poet Sheikh Hafizur Rahman. Twenty eight dance artistes of Nrityanchal went to Kolkata on December 9 to stage "Rai Krishna Padabali" there.

"Rai Krishna Padabli" is based on legendary love story of Radha and Krishna. The protagonists of the dance drama have been donned by famous dance artistes - Shamim Ara Nipa and Shibli Mohammad. The dance drama was composed, choreographed and directed by famous Kolkata based artiste Sukalyann Bhattacharya. Under Ratna Chowdhury's music direction, famous singers like Haimanti Shukla, Rezwana Chowdhury Bonnya, Joyti Chakrabarti, Monmoy Bhattacharya, Agniva Banerjee and others lent their voices in a number of songs while noted actor-elocutionist Soumitra Chatterjee and others recorded background voice for the production.

Milon pairs up with Hasin for ‘12/12/12’

2012-11-07T06:31:00.001-08:00

To mark 12 December, 2012 (12/12/12), a day that comes once in a century, people across the world are planning to celebrate it in different ways. In this regard, celebrities of our silver screen are not lagging behind.

Singers and musicians are selecting the day to launch their albums while special single-episode TV plays are being made to be aired on the day.

For ‘12/12/12’, popular actor Anisur Rahman Milon has been paired up with model-turned-actress Hasin who won talent hunt contest ‘Veet-Channel i Top Model 2011’, last year.

Written by Ananya Mamun and directed by Ziauddin Alam, ‘12/12/12’ is a romantic play which revolves around a doctor and mentally ill patient.

About the play, Hasin said, “I am excited to work with Anisur Rahman Milon who is really an actor of different level. This will be my first work with Milon. Despite being irregular in TV plays, I have decided to do the work as I want to celebrate the occasion, 12-12-12.”

A Musical Evening by Samina Chowdhury

2012-11-05T07:24:00.000-08:00

An ethereal ambiance of melodies came along at Indira Gandhi Culture Centre’s Gulshan branch auditorium as Samina Chowdhury captivated her fans once again with her musical spells at a solo soiree on Saturday evening.

Presenting a mélange of harmonious songs—from her signature contemporary numbers to ghazals and a few renditions of patriotic songs—Samina Chowdhury was true to herself at the soiree.

The musical programme, which was arranged by Indira Gandhi Culture Centre (IGCC), under the High Commission of India in Dhaka, in association with the State Bank of India in Bangladesh, was more than two-hour long and a rare treat for the Samina fans.

After reading out a brief profile of the singer, Samina took the stage and captivated audiences with some harmonious contemporary numbers like ‘Ghum ghum chokh’, ‘Ranir hater mala’, ‘Lage je gale’, ‘Kobita porar prohor eshechhey’, and other modern songs.

The soiree, which began with a patriotic number, ‘Ei desh ta amar’, incorporated a total of 20 songs of varied genres.

‘Are You Listening!’ sees its world premiere at Leipzig

2012-11-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

Young filmmaker Kamar Ahmad Simon’s ‘Are You Listening! (Shunte Ki Pao!)’ was the curtain-raiser of the 55th International Leipzig Festival for Documentary and Animated Film, also known as ‘D OK Leipzig’.

With the world premiere of ‘Are You Listening!’, the festival, which is one of the oldest of its kind; began its 55th edition at the Leipzig CineStar Theater Complex in Germany on last Monday.

Apart from, ‘Are You Listening!’, Danish film ‘The Will’ was also screened on the opening day.

Director of the film Christian Sonderby Jepsen was given the 2012 Doc Alliance Award with prize money worth 5,000 euros on the occasion.

Around 750 guests, including 200 filmmakers, were present at the inaugural ceremony.

Saxon State Minister of the Arts Sabine von Schorlemer and Leipzig Mayor Burkhard Jung also graced the programme.

The festival concludes on 4 November.

Written, directed and cinematographed by Kamar Ahmad Simon and produced by Sara Afreen, the film, which was awarded as one of the best films at the ‘Docedge Kolkata 2011: Asian Forum for Documentaries’ held last year in India, is a protest against the adverse impacts of climate change on Bangladesh.

Sutarkhali is a peaceful village beside Bhadra River nearby the Sundarbans. However, the village was severely hit by cyclone Aila on 25 May, 2009. After three years, people in the village are still struggling with the aftermaths of the catastrophe.

Simon’s lenses in the film try to zoom in on the daily-life of the Aila-hit community of Sutarkhali, their brave fight against nature, and also impacts of climate change.

After screening of the film, an excited Simon said, “This would be certainly a dream-come-true moment for any filmmaker. I’m no exception and highly thrilled and encouraged. If we look closely, we can see signs of quality cinema in Bangladesh helmed by a crop of young filmmakers. ‘Are You Listening! (Shunte Ki Pao!)’ is just a outcome of that trend. I believe this generation will take the Bangladeshi cinema to a different height.”

Earlier, the film was screened at the 25th edition of IDFA (International Documentary Festival of Amsterdam), the largest documentary festival in the world.

IDFA and Dok-Leipzig are recognised as two of the three most respected documentary festivals globally.

Ponds beautiful bride by Magic Mirror

2012-10-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

As the traditional season for weddings is just about to begin in Bangladesh, Magic Mirror along with Unilever were joined by Wedding Diary, Couture by Sanjna and New Jarwa House, have come together to make the most cherished moment for a bride a magical experience!
5 brides charmed the guests on the launching event of the ‘Ponds Beautiful Bride by Magic Mirror’ at Hotel Lake Shore in Gulshan-2, Dhaka, on October 17. Farzana Halim Hai, CEO of the city’s new makeover lounge ‘Magic Mirror’, displayed the magic of customized makeovers with a modern touch through models dressed for occasions like wedding and holud. The emphasis both Magic Mirror and Unilever puts on skin care was clear as the fresh yet stunning look of the brides seemed to breath in a fragrance of heaven into the hearts and minds of their beholder. The Couture by Sanjana stepped in with taste and class as the brides adorned their lovely saris with comfort, grace and glamour. While the saris displayed work with beautiful stones and dazzling threads, the jewelry by New Jarwa House added to this radiant event with its breathtaking necklaces and bangles made of gold and precious stones.

The stages created by Wedding Diary complemented the bride accordingly. Each of the five stages was decorated according to the bride’s outfit and makeover. As the queen of the moment took her seat, the stage seemed to come alive and present the bride as a garden would present its most prized rose.
The synergy displayed by all the brands together in the ‘Ponds Beautiful Bride by Magic Mirror’ ultimately gives a real promise for her most romantic journey to have a glorious, it gives her that perfect wedding day!
The event’s success came as the makeover was complimented by the decoration, saris, jewelries and freshness to the point of perfection. As Magic Mirror looks forward to welcome clients regularly with more attractive packages matching various budgets and time, it wants to continue growing in strength with its partners to bring more such events in the future for the enchanting beautiful brides of Bangladesh.

Nabila-Channel i Shera Nachiye 2012

2012-10-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Dance talents Tushar and Mim jointly won the title of the country’s first dance reality show, ‘Nabila-Channel i Shera Nachiye 2012’, at its glitzy grand finale at Mirpur Indoor Stadium in the city on Thursday evening.

Apart from title and crown, they shared a cash prize of Tk 5 lakh.

Prothoma and Mandira, at the finale, became the first and second runners up and received Tk 3 and 2 lakh, respectively.

Channel i Managing Director Faridur Reza Sagar, Zahir Uddin Mahmud Mamun, its director; Shamima Nabi, managing director of Nabila along with jury panel including dancer-choreographer Munmun Ahmed, actors Ferdous and Purnima handed over the awards.

After six months of hard-core dancing extravaganza, the nation-wide talent hunt show picked the winners from a total of 20,000 contestants from across the country.

Of them, 10 were selected to vie for the title of the contest. The finalists who took part in the grand finale were Shital, Tushar, Mim, Prothoma, Tonny, Sazin, Russell, Hena, Sabi and Mandira.

Each finalist rendered solo performance at the finale to impress the jury panel as well as viewers for their votes. Considering audience votes and jury panel’s marks, the result of the contest was declared at the end of the programme.

Directed by Ijaz Khan Swapan and anchored by Tanisha, the programme was aired live on Channel i.

Norwegian folk dance staged in Dhaka

2012-10-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

Norwegian dancers Ulf Arne Johanssen and Margit Myher moved the Dhaka audience through the colourful by folk dance recitals. Local dancers also performed with the Norwegian duo at the programme on Sunday at the Sawkat Osman auditorium of the Central Public Library on Sunday, which was basically an output of a five-day workshop on traditional Norwegian dance conducted by Ulf Arne Johanssen and Margit Myher.

The programme also featured a traditional Santal dance form of Bangladesh, composed by local composer Sharmila Bandapadhyay, in which the Norwegian dancers also performed. Dancers, sometimes in groups, sometimes in pairs and sometimes in solos, presented different types of traditional Norwegian dance forms.

The event began with traditional a Norwegian dance recital called as Polka in which couples holding each other’s hands danced in circle. Another attraction of the evening was Springer, a very old yet popular dance in Norway, which was also presented in pairs following the tradition.

They also performed Ring dance in which artistes formed two rings, one within another, and danced synchronised with the melody of accordion played by Ulf Arne Johanssen.

Ulf Arne Johanssen and Margit Myher also performed a solo dance and a solo music respectively.

Spa and Massage Parlors increasing in Bangladesh

2012-09-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Even before couple of years, spa and massage parlors run by females were seen as immoral and illegal in Bangladesh. Members of the law enforcing agencies continued regular raids on such massage parlors and spas, being influenced by a section of fanatic Muslims. But, since the secularist government of Bangladesh Awami League came in power in January 2009, things have started moving towards positive directions. Now, foreigner and tourists can find luxurious massage parlors and spas in Dhaka city as well as other parts of the country. And most importantly, service rates are cheaper in comparing to rates in other cities in the world. To cope with the ever-increasing number of tourists in Bangladesh, some entrepreneurs are investing significant amount in contributing in establishing various companies purely with the objective of making various international facilities, including spas with female masseurs from Thailand and Bangladesh, which are gradually becoming very popular in the country. These spas have also been able in increasing the "spa community" in the country, while many health-conscious men and women are regularly visiting the spas either for aroma therapy or for soothing massage.

Even outside Dhaka city, there are a number of spas, such as Panigram Resort & Spa, which is located at Khulna district. In the website of this resort and spa, it says, "Panigram Spa and Wellness Center's goal is to help our guests achieve balance in their mind, body, and spirit. Our services are based on the ancient art/science of Ayurveda which was developed here on the Indian subcontinent over 5,000 year ago. Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term that means "the knowledge of life". Nutrition, exercise, massage, herbal treatments, meditation, and purification regimens are combined to bring the body back into equilibrium with nature.

In Ayurveda, each person has a prakruti (personal constitution) that is formed at conception. Your prakruti is defined in terms of doshas which are combinations of the five basic elements: ether, air, fire, water, and earth. Each person has all three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha – though in most people one or two of the doshas are more dominant.

While your prakruti is fixed throughout your lifetime, interaction with the environment causes your mind and body to shift. If it shifts too far from your natural state you become imbalanced, which leads to physical illness and/or mental stress. Ayurveda strives to bring your body back to its natural, balanced state.

Because everyone's prakruti is different, all of our services are tailored to meet your individual needs. We recommend that you begin with our complementary 20 minute wellness assessment. Our counselors will recommend a variety of treatments based on your personal profile that will help restore, refresh, and rejuvenate you."

Thai Styles Massage Spa:

It is located at House # 48/A, Road # 34, Gulshan – 2, Dhaka. For appointments, you can call: 018-20-26-9070. It has many services such as, Traditional Thai Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, Head Massage, Thai Herbal Massage, Back and Shoulder Massage, Foot Massage and Full Body Scrub and Massage. It has both local and Thai masseurs.

Siam Spa:

This spa is located at the 13^th floor of Dhaka Regency Hotel. There is female masseurs in this spa both from Thailand and Bangladesh.

Reera Spa:

House # 7A, Road # 41, Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. For booking: 0174-929-4500. This spa also has both Thai and local masseurs. But, it is recommended that local female masseurs should be avoided as they are not skilled at all in Thai massage or aromatherapy. In most cases, the local female masseurs at Reera Spa are seen doing massage in a very naive manner, which would surely cause several physical complications to the customers. Moreover, the local masseurs will do their best in cheating the customers with the time while they may even try in extracting extra money through numerous excuses. As the charges are same, it is better to have authentic Thai massage etc from the female Thai staffs at Reera Spa.

Avera Spa & Saloon:

House # 13/1, Road # 12, Baridhara Diplomatic Zone, Dhaka. It provide services with only local Garo masseurs.

It is indicated that by the end of 2012, there will be at least 45-50 spa and massage Parlors in various parts of Bangladesh, including the Dhaka city. Commenting on the business trend of the existing spas in Bangladesh, the owners said, they are making money much above their expectation and it is believed by them that Dhaka city alone can house 45-50 spas.

The King's Speech wins 83rd Annual Academy Awards

2011-03-01T08:08:00.001-08:00

The show started off with a former Oscar host Alec Baldwin's journey through his dreams, inspired by the movie "Inception". Fragments of his dreams were actually clips from nominated movies such as "True Grit" and "The Social Network", where Franco and Hathaway found themselves, conversing with Jeff Bridges and Natalie Portman whilst they remained unaware. It was a much applauded attempt at humour, and then the show began.

With "The Social Network" in the forefront for most awards, the audience wasn't expecting many surprises. Movies related/relevant to recent events always won top prize as "The Hurt Locker" and "Slumdog Millionaire" can testify. However, this year it was all a bit different. "The King's Speech" fought off competition from "The Black Swan" and "The Social Network", for the Oscar for the best picture. This was indeed a throwback to the past, when movies having historical values would usually win as opposed to movies based on current scenarios. Would this set the mood for what is to come in 2011? Time will tell.

Colin Firth and Natalie Portman picked up the Oscars for Best Actor and Actress, respectively. Firth sealed the deal for his remarkable depiction of King George the VI, while Portman's portrayal of a ballerina sunk in depths of self-deception and losing touch with reality just before the performance of her life, won rave reviews and Oscar-cries right after the film was released. Thus, these wins came as no surprise.

The Oscar for Best Actor and Actress in Supporting Roles had much more drama. Bale's role as Dicky Edmund, the drug induced and maniacal former boxing legend, spoke at lengths. It seems that he picked up a thing or two from his former co-star, the late Heath Ledger, but Bale had already proven his capabilities previously in the dark movie "The Machinist". No man deserved the Oscar more. The Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role went to Melissa Leo. At 50, it was surprising how she beat off Helena Bonham and Hailee Steinfeld, but then again Melissa's role called for far more on-screen time and had more depth.

The Oscar for Best Original Screenplay went to the 73-year old David Seidler for "The King's Speech". Accepting his Oscar, David said, "I was told I would be a late bloomer." The award for Best Director went to Tom Hooper for "The King's Speech", while "Toy Story 3", predictably, won an Oscar for Best Animated Picture. The Oscar for Best Foreign Film went to Denmark's entry, "In a Better World". Of course the award ceremony would not be complete without an Oscar for "Inception", which won in the Best Cinematography category. Questions persisted throughout the evening why "Inception" was not even in running for any of the other major categories, but at least the movie deservingly left with something.

Though this may not have ushered in a hip new era that Hollywood or rather the Academy was craving, it was indeed a dignified affair. As the audience reverted back to traditions of folklore and Billy Crystal reminded us of when times were better, a feeling of preservation prevailed. The 83rd Academy Awards managed to showcase the best of Hollywood with no question of partiality arising.

Mustafa Zaman Abbasi performs at Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre

2010-10-31T05:24:00.000-07:00

Mustafa Zaman Abbasi doesn't just sing, he narrates songs -- you hear the story and get the complete imagery. At the musical programme arranged by Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, High Commission of India, Dhaka on October 29, Abbasi in his usual style engaged the audience. The occasion: Abbasi's father, legendary folk singer Abbasuddin's 109th birth anniversary. The event was held at Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre in Gulshan, Dhaka.

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Rajeet Mitter and director of Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, Ankan Banerjee, greeted Abbasi; his elder brother, former chief justice Mustafa Kamal; sister, renowned singer Ferdausi Rahman and niece, also an accomplished artiste, Dr. Nashid Kamal.

Mustafa Kamal reminisced how a young man from an affluent land-owning family in Cooch Bihar (India) became an iconic folk singer. From the urban centre Kolkata, cutting records of songs from remote corners of East Bengal was not a cakewalk either. According to Kamal, initially Abbasuddin failed to convince the studio owner to let him record bhawaiya (folk songs from North Bengal). The singer then approached Kazi Nazrul Islam to intervene. Nazrul did a composition based on a bhawaiya song Abbasuddin rendered. That song “Nodir Naam Shoi Anjona” was included in one of the records and became a hit. After that there was no looking back. Songs from North and East Bengal found their place in the Kolkata record industry. Abbasuddin, along with Nazrul, was also instrumental in initiating the Islamic Bangla songs genre.

Abbasi eased into his performance with the ever-familiar Jasimuddin composition “Agey Janley Tor Bhanga Nouka-e Chortam Na”. Among the accompanying instruments, banshi (flute) and dotara shined.

“One needn't use 12 musical instruments in folk songs. Just like we appreciate our mothers' modest, homely appearance, folk songs too sound best in a minimalist setting,” Abbasi, who is also a noted folk researcher, said.

Next the artiste rendered another Jasimuddin number, “Amar Gohin Gang-er Naiyya”. As Abbasi breathed life into the song and a bicchhedi (song of separation) after that, the essence of yearning took a tangible shape. The other side of the river, where the beloved supposedly lives, is visible, but remains elusive, inaccessible.

As he performed the bhawaiya song, “Phandey Boriya Boga Kandey Re”, a song about a pair of birds divided by a river, Abbasi said, “For our convenience, we have marked borders but artistes, musicians are like these birds. They sing of peace and universal love.”

At 74, Abbasi still effortlessly moves the audience through his sensitivity, wit and a voice that glides through bass, baritone and tenor as if it was waxed with molasses indigenous to rural Bengal. And why not? When one sings “to Tagore, Nazrul, Jalaluddin Rumi past midnight, for hours” [according to the artiste], his craft blesses him in return.

“Runway”: Tareque and Catherine’s latest film ready to take off

2010-09-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

“Runway”, the latest film directed by Tareque Masud and produced by Catherine Masud, has recently received an uncut certificate from the Bangladesh Film Censor Board, according to a press release. The film, which follows the story of an idealistic youth's drift into militancy, was shot in 2008-2009.

The original story and screenplay by the Masuds was inspired by the events of 2005-2006, when a rise in the violent activities of extremist groups brought the country to the brink of chaos. The film also looks at the wider complexity of religious extremism, impacted by local and international politics and economic realities.

The film zooms in on Ruhul, who lives with his family in a shack next to the runway of the international airport. His mother Rahima struggles to make ends meet by selling milk of a cow bought with a micro credit loan. Ruhul's sister Fatima works long hours at a garments factory. There's been no word from their father for over a month, since he left to work in the Middle East. A madrasa dropout, Ruhul spends his days wandering under the shadows of the planes, aimless and frustrated in his futile efforts to find work. One day at a cyber cafe he meets Arif, a computer savvy young man who exudes confidence and a sense of purpose. The world Arif introduces Ruhul to, seems inspiring and new, but gradually Ruhul's life spirals into a nefarious netherworld of intolerance, violence and ultimately, death...

The cast is primarily made up of newcomers, including Md. Fazlul Haque as Ruhul; Rabeya Akter Moni as Rahima and Ali Ahsan as Arif. Other cast members include Nazmul Huda Bachchu, Nasrin Akter, Rikita Nandini Shimu, Jayanto Chattopadhyay, Moslem Uddin, and a cameo by Nusrat Imroz Tisha.

The screenplay was written jointly by Tareque and Catherine Masud, with the story and dialogues by Tareque. Continuing a longstanding collaboration with the Masuds, the film was shot by Mishuk Munier. Masrur Rahman did the sound recording and Shaheed Ahmed Mithu worked as the art director. Music direction was done jointly by the Masuds, while Tanvir Alam Shawjeeb did the main musical score. The film has been edited by Catherine Masud. Dolby 5.1 mixing was done by New York-based sound designer Alex Noyes.

Channel i turns 12

2010-09-27T07:36:00.000-07:00

With the theme 'Hridoye Ek Tukro Bangladesh,' Channel i is marking its 12th anniversary on October 1. On the occasion, the channel has chalked out nine daylong elaborate celebrations with cultural programmes.

The festivities started with a painting competition for children followed by a cultural function that was held at Bangladesh Shishu Academy auditorium on September 23. State Minister for Women and Children's Affairs, Dr. Shirin Sharmin Chowdhury, inaugurated the competition.

Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University, Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique, inaugurated 'Sharat Utshab' (autumn festival) -- also part of the celebration -- at Hakim Chattar on Dhaka University campus on September 24 morning. Baul songs were the highlight on the following day's programme at the venue.

Starting from yesterday (September 26), a two daylong cultural function, featuring participants of “Khudey Gaanraaj”, Bagha Gayen and Tokai Natyadol is being held at Chhayanaut auditorium.

A three daylong painting exhibition -- featuring works of eminent artistes -- along with cultural programmes also began yesterday at Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts. Bari Siddiqui performed on September 26. Ferdous Ara, Shur Shoptak and Boikalik will sing today; Rezwana Chowdhury Bonya and Ganey Golpey Rabindranath will perform on September 28.

Starting from today, a two daylong photography exhibition with poetry recitation will be held between 4-8 pm at Liberation War Museum.

Dhaka Padatik and Dhaka Theatre will stage “Paichu Chorer Kechchha” and “Binodini” at 6 pm on September 28 and 29 respectively at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

Starting from September 29, a two daylong film screening will be held between 11 am to 9 pm at Star Cineplex. Two films “Swapnodanay” and “Gohoney Shabdo” will be screened on September 29 while “Moner Manush” will be screened on September 30.

Starting from September 29, a two daylong children's film screening with a seminar will be held between 9 am to 5 pm at British Council auditorium.

Shabnur paired with newcomer Arzu

2010-09-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

Leading film actress Shabnoor has been paired with newcomers in Dhallywood -- such as Nadim and Emon -- time and again. This time the actress has been cast with young actor Arzu who created ripples with his debut film "Tumi Achho Hridoye".

Audiences of mainstream films will get to watch the duo in the movie "Jibon Nadir Tirey", directed by Monir Hossain Mithu. Mithu has worked as an assistant for noted filmmakers like Dilip Biswas, Shibly Sadik, Jibon Rahman and Jibon Chowdhury.

Details on the film will be revealed soon. Shooting for the film is expected to begin from February 1 at Shushong Durgapur in Netrakona.

Written by Zaman Akhtar, the cast of the film also includes Dolly Zahur, Sadek Bachchu and Afzal Sharif. Debendranath Chattapaddhyay (of "Moner Majhey Tumi" fame) is the music director of the film.

“Channel i Shera Kontho” winner Konal : Voice of the generation

2009-12-30T04:42:00.000-08:00

On December 25, Somnur Monir Konal became the winner of the 2009 "Channel i Shera Kontho". For Konal, a fourth semester student of United International University, the recognition is a giant leap forward.

"I always wanted to become a singer; I see the 'Shera Kontho' crown as a realisation of my dream," said Konal.

Konal grew up in a music-oriented family. "I was introduced to music and singing when I was four years old by my mother Saima Monir. She has been a major source of motivation.

"My mother had a harmonium and she loved to sing; when I grew up we used to sing together."

"My father Monir Hossain's profession took our family to Kuwait when I was six years-old," she continued."

"I went to the Kuwait branch of Rabindra Bharti University for a diploma in Indian classical music. After my A-level exams I moved to Bangladesh in 2008. When I moved to Bangladesh I still had one year left of the diploma which is a five-year course, I had plans to attend the final year in Kolkata. In the meantime I got a chance to participate at the 'Shera Kontho' contest."

"As part of the award, I won a scholarship at the AR Rahman Music Institute in Chennai. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me," Konal said.

Recalling her "Channel i Shera Kontho" experiences, the young artiste said, "I will always remember my audition. The night before was sleepless. I went to the Channel i Tejgaon office early at 5:30 am on the audition day with my maternal uncle and aunt. I was the first candidate of the day. Lyricist Kabir Bokul and singer Nadira Begum evaluated my audition."

Speaking of her future plans, Konal said, "I want to be an accomplished classical singer. I also have interest in music composition. In future I would like to contribute to the music industry as a successful singer and music composer.”

Konal wins "Channel i Shera Kontho 2009"

2009-12-25T03:58:00.000-08:00

Konal (centre) with Chaitee (left) and Nadiraj after winning the title.

"And the winner is ...Konal," TV presenter Farzana Brownia dramatically announced at end of the four-hour grand finale of "Channel i Shera Kontho 2009", a musical talent hunt, held at Rajshahi District Stadium on Thursday night.

With the announcement, the chilly winter night in the northwestern city warmed up for some moments as 25000 people at the stadium and some 50,000 outside jumped up in joy and fireworks lit the sky. It was a night to remember in Rajshahi.

The announcement came as a relief to millions of Bangladeshis at home and abroad glued to the TV screen, waiting for the result.

Somnur Monir Konal from Dhaka won the title, while Chaitee Mutsuddi Liza and the youngest finalist Moumita Tasrin Nadiraj won the first and second runner-up positions respectively.

Konal received a cheque worth Tk eight lakh, while Chaitee got Tk five lakh and Nadiraj got Tk three lakh. They also received monetary and other gifts from different organisations, including a Tk 25,000 award from Rajshahi City Corporation.

The finale featured spirited live performances by the seven finalists and the results were based on points given by the judges and SMS votes from the audiences.

Renowned artistes Runa Laila, Sabina Yasmin, Subir Nandi and veteran music composer Alauddin Ali were present as the judges at the finale, adding grandeur to the programme that left a lasting impression on the people of Rajshahi.

The programme began with speeches by Channel i Managing Director Faridur Reza Sagar and Rajshahi Mayor AHM Khairuzzaman Liton.

The main event began with the performances of renowned dancers Shibli Mohammad and Shamim Ara Nipa accompanied by around 100 young dancers of Rajshahi; the song "Aguner Poroshmoni Chhoao Praney" played in the background.

The mega event changed the city mood. Four big screens were set up inside the stadium and six at different city points.

Head of News and Director, Channel i, Shykh Seraj, however, explained that the total amount of money would not be given to the winners right away. The winners will receive scholarships to acclaimed musical institutions abroad. He said, "A sudden rush of money often corrupts young minds."

The event, "Channel i Shera Kontho 2009" began in May with the slogan 'Gaaney... Awaz Tolo Praney." Some 92,000 contestants from seven zones of the country -- Dhaka Metro, Dhaka, Barisal, Rajshahi, Chittagong, Khulna and Sylhet -- took part in the competition.

On the occasion of the grand finale in Rajshahi, Channel i covered special reports highlighting the economy, environment and culture of the city during the last few days.

Farzana Brownia and Robin Khan directed the even jointly.

Knit Exposition 2009 fashion show at Dhaka Sheraton

2009-11-03T01:10:00.000-08:00

Visitor browses a stall at Knit Exposition 2009 while a model performs catwalk at the fashion show on the sideline of the annual event at Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka on Monday, organised by Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturer’s and Exporter’s Association.

“Third Person Singular Number” will be released in next month

2009-11-02T04:56:00.000-08:00

After being premiered at the Pusan International Film Festival in South Korea and earning rave reviews at the Middle East International Film Festival in Abu Dhabi recently, Mustafa Sarwar Farooki's much anticipated film "Third Person Singular Number", will have its Bangladesh release on December 11.

The announcement was made at a press conference at the Channel i Siddeshwari office yesterday. Faridur Reza Sagor, managing director, Impress Telefilm Ltd and Channel i; Mustafa Sarwar Farooki, Anisul Haque and the actors of the film were present at the occasion. Inspired by Syed Manzoorul Islam's novel, titled "Tin Parber Jibon O Kichhu Bastab Case Study," playwright Anisul Haque and Farooki jointly wrote the script for the film.

It should be mentioned that "Third Person..." was one of the 18 entries vying for the top award at the Middle East International Film Festival. It was the only South Asian film participating at the festival.

"Third Person..." zooms in on the existence of a single woman in our society. Ruba, a progressive young urban woman, does not want her personal freedom to be compromised. She loves Munna. But when Munna is physically absent from her life, Ruba faces the reality. Her identity, existence as an individual is questioned by the conservative society.

The film features Tisha, Mosharraf Karim and singer Topu in the lead roles. "Third Person Singular Number" has been produced by Impress Telefilm Ltd.

Fair & Lovely Super Hero Niloy, Super Heroine Mimo

2009-10-22T03:38:00.000-07:00

Grand Finale of Fair & Lovely Super Hero Super Heroine held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center yesterday - Super Hero Niloy & Super Heroine Mimo

Anwar Hossain honoured at Channel i Chalachchitra Mela ‘09

2009-10-03T05:29:00.000-07:00

Amid much enthusiasm Channel i Chalachchitra Mela 2009 was held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre yesterday. Throughout the day, appearances by leading actors, directors, singers, film enthusiasts and others associated with the Bangladeshi film industry turned the occasion into a festive event.

"The movie industry is like one big family, and this mela aims to bring together all the members of this family to celebrate our cinema," said Faridur Reza Sagor, managing director, Impress Telefilm Ltd and Channel i.

The first Chalachchitra Mela, was held at FDC premises in 2008.

"The response from movie enthusiasts and everyone who attended the event was very encouraging," Sagor said.

The mela was inaugurated by Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, secretary, Ministry of Information. Information Minister Abul Kalam Azad couldn't attend the programme; a short clip of the minister appreciating the event was screened at the venue.

The main attraction of the programme was the presentation of a lifetime achievement award to veteran film actor Anwar Hossain. Known widely to Bangla film viewers for his fiery role in Khan Ataur Rahman's "Nawab Siraj Ud-Dawla," Anwar Hossain's other memorable works include "Jibon Thekey Neya" (directed by Zahir Raihan), "Lathial," "Golapi Ekhon Train-e" (directed by Amjad Hossain) and more.

"My love for the movie industry and acting remains the same as it was during my early days. Deep inside I'm still an actor but due to age related ailments I'm unable to work in films now," said an emotional Anwar Hossain.

Hossain received a crest and cheque worth Taka 1,20,000 (the artiste will receive Taka 10,000 every month as instalments from Channel i). Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury presented the crest to the artiste. Shykh Seraj, head of news, Channel i and Faridur Reza Sagor jointly handed over the cheque to the actor.

Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury congratulated Channel i for stepping into its 11th year. "Such events can play a very positive role in promoting our movie industry," said Chowdury about the mela. He also lauded Impress Telefilm's "Britter Bairey" which was released recently and is representing Bangladesh at the Oscars.

A special award was presented to veteran actor Razzaq and his family for their contribution to the film industry. Leading singers of the country Runa Laila and Sabina Yasmin were also honoured at the programme.

The award-giving ceremony was followed by a cultural programme featuring popular Bangla film songs. Singers Samina Chowdhury, Khurshid Alam, Rafiqul Alam, Rizia Parveen and actors Faruk, Anjana, Nipun, Badhon, among others, performed at the programme.

Stalls were set up at the venue to provide the visitors with information on the movie industry and filmmaking. However, some of the stalls had no connection whatsoever with films.

The mela was aired live on Channel i. Home Stone Ltd was the sponsor of the event.

Mila’s Redefined hits the music scene

2009-08-31T02:55:00.000-07:00

The much-awaited album by the young and hip singer Mila was finally launched on August 29 at a local restaurant in Dhanmondi. This is yet another accomplishment by Fuad Al-Muqtadir, who hit the contemporary scene with his extraordinary music. Featuring lyrics by Shahan Kabondho, among others, the Fuad featuring Mila album "Redefined" has been produced by G-series. With a set of 17 tracks, Fuad and Mila showcase, not only their excellence in music production, but also share wit and humorous experiences that the team had gone through over the last few months of writing, recording, editing, and re-recording.

In each of their albums, Fuad and Mila try to add something innovative and fresh for their fans. While from their last album "Chapter 2", the song "Jatrabala" became a huge hit. The duo's latest venture "Redefined" will also hopefully manage to shock listeners with "Disco Bandor", an amalgamation of rhythm, melody, which is simply put, a lot of fun. For those who find "Disco Bandor" a treat, the video (made by Gazi Shubhro and his team Red Dot) is a must watch, coming soon on television this Eid.

The music scene today boasts very few young musicians who are dedicated to their craft, and Mila seems to be one of them. Close friends say that Mila is not only a dedicated artiste, but is also a strong and determined individual.

Just in her early twenties, Mila has successfully managed to carve a niche in the music scene, thanks to her talent and courage. For all the Fuad and Mila fans who appreciate their sense of versatility and creativity, the song "Nirob" from "Redefined" is a must have.

In a nutshell, "Redefined" is expected to redefine not only Fuad and Mila's musical abilities, but also become a voice of the youth of today.