Contributor
Imagine standing on a flat rock nearly 1,982 feet (604 metres) above sea level, with no railings or safety barriers around you. In front of you lie endless mountains, and beneath your feet is a blue fjord. Norway's Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, is precisely such a spine-chilling location, known to travellers worldwide as the 'end of the world'.
Although Iran is seemingly behind the United States and Israel in terms of modern fighter jets, powerful air defense systems, or sophisticated intelligence capabilities, the country has emerged as an 'irresistible' regional power in the past few decades.
Born into an extremely struggling rural family, Fatema Begum has emerged as a unique and behind-the-scenes witness to Bangladesh’s political history. For nearly 16 years, she served as the constant companion of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, rising beyond the identity of a domestic worker to become an inseparable figure of trust within the Zia family. From the dark confines of prison cells to long days of house arrest, lonely hospital nights and silent corridors of foreign trips, she stood quietly by the leader’s side in every moment of hardship, setting a rare example of loyalty. Even after Begum Zia’s death, that unbroken bond of trust continues, with Fatema now serving as the constant companion of her granddaughter, Zaima Rahman.
The year 2026 promises a series of rare and exciting celestial events, offering astronomy enthusiasts in Bangladesh a chance to witness the wonders of the universe firsthand.
The year 2024 posed significant challenges for Bangladesh, as it faced a series of natural disasters and accidents. From extreme heatwaves to unprecedented hailstorms, devastating floods, Cyclone "Remal," landslides, and lightning strikes, the country experienced severe impacts. In addition, increasing road, rail, and waterway accidents claimed numerous lives. These disasters caused extensive damage to crops and infrastructure, making the situation even more complex. Experts emphasize the urgent need for increased awareness, improved forecasting systems, and effective disaster management planning and implementation to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.