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Iran has learned to survive despite adversities
Since the dawn of the Persian Empire, Iran has carried a long history of surviving against adversity. Through invasions, political turmoil, and wars over time, this resilient mindset has been forged. The Iran-Iraq war, in particular, taught the country how to build resistance with limited resources and sustain a prolonged battle. Today, as Tehran finds itself in direct confrontation with a world power like the United States, the question arises: is this stance merely the result of modern technology and military capability, or is it a lesson in self-reliance drawn from harsh historical experience? Or is it a resolute expression of determination to hold its head high and endure while preserving Persia's ancient heritage?
Lens witness to liberation: Raghu Rai and Bangladesh’s 1971 war
History is often written with words—but sometimes, a single photograph speaks louder than any chronicle. Few understood this better than legendary Indian photojournalist Raghu Rai, whose camera framed not just events, but the emotional and human epic of Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971.
A glance into trade deal between Bangladesh and US signed by interim government
Recently, there has been intense discussion about the 'Reciprocal Trade Agreement' concluded by the former interim government of Bangladesh with the United States. According to many, the interests of Bangladesh have not been properly protected in the agreement. A review of the agreement has shown that it has ensured more benefits for the United States than the concessions provided for Bangladesh.
Unknown tale of Biju
Upon consulting dictionaries of Bengali, Hindi, and English, one encounters the term Chakma. Recent assertions by historical linguists indicate that all contemporary languages, totaling around 6000, have emerged through a gradual process of fragmentation from a singular, original great language. Consequently, we have adhered to the guidelines of the 'Bengali Glossary' to ascertain the meanings of the terms Bishu, Biju, Phul, Mool, and Gajyepajye.
Pahela Baishakh: From origins to global spread of modernity
Throughout history, a nation's identity is expressed through the vibrancy of its festivals. For the Bengali people, this vibrancy is epitomized by 'Pahela Baishakh'. From its roots in an agricultural society to the complexities of contemporary global life, this festival has experienced significant transformations.
Pahela Baishakh: Dialectical formation of Bengali identity
When individuals participate in a procession, carrying clay dolls or softly singing, "Eso, he boishakh, eso eso..." (inviting the summer), a pertinent question arises: is this celebration a festival of the Bengali people, or is it an imposition of Hindu culture upon the 'Muslims'? The latter assertion is quite significant. This inquiry is fundamentally altered with the onset of Baishakh. Its core lies in the comprehension of identity, culture, religion, and history. Pahela Boishakh stands as the most prominent socio-cultural festival in Bangladesh. This festival, which is rooted in the illusion of capitalism, is now celebrated in every household of the proletariat within the freedom of society. It has been intertwined with the cultural elements generated by the social order of transformation. This amalgamation is now irreversible. Even the philosophies of Marx or Hegel would falter in this context. Nevertheless, the discourse surrounding this festival persists. The crux of the debate: it is regarded as the timeless cultural manifestation of Bengalis, while conversely, it is viewed as a contemporary political construct, with a specific religious group rejecting and opposing it as an encroachment of foreign culture. It is impossible for all members of the nation to be entirely acquainted with one another. However, despite our differences, our journey and struggles are unified. Just as we feel joy when a Bengali receives an accolade thousands of miles away, we also experience sorrow when a Bengali perishes in a conflict in the Middle East. What accounts for this phenomenon? We have cultivated certain humanly conceived entities within ourselves, which fosters our attraction to one another.
From Ghazal to Pop: Legendary versatility of Asha Bhosle
Renowned as the 'Queen of Playback Singing,' Asha Bhosle stands as one of the most versatile and celebrated voices in the history of South Asian music. Her extraordinary contributions across diverse genres—including film music, classical compositions, ghazals, pop, and modern songs—have firmly established her as a legend.
Complex equation of shortening office hours: Naive triangular thinking
Whenever news of a supposedly 'groundbreaking' decision emerges from the inner circles of the country’s policymakers, ordinary people like us spend half the day trying to figure out whether we should feel delighted or simply sit with our hands on our heads in confusion.
NASA’s Artemis II: Why humans are returning to the Moon after 53 years
After more than five decades, NASA has launched its Artemis II mission, sending humans back towards the Moon. The four‑astronaut crew lifted off aboard the Orion spacecraft, beginning a 10‑day journey that will take them around the lunar far side and back to Earth.
Pulpit Rock: Standing here feels like the end of the world
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'.