Maisha Islam Monamee

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed various sectors, and advertising is no exception. With advancements in deep learning algorithms and neural networks, modern AI has become increasingly proficient in generating realistic imagery, including ad campaigns without human intervention.

For decades, Bollywood has been primarily driven by the "male gaze," where women were portrayed through the lens of male desire and societal expectations. They presented women in stereotypical roles, often as damsels in distress, sacrificing lovers, or objects of desire. This male gaze manifested in hyper-sexualisation, passive narratives and limited agency. Women rarely drove the plot. Their actions and desires revolved around men, reinforcing traditional gender roles. They were portrayed as lacking control over their lives, with their choices dictated by societal norms or male characters.

The theme for this year’s Women’s Day, "Invest in women: Accelerate Progress," resonates deeply in today’s entrepreneurial landscape. While recent years have seen a commendable increase in the number of female-led startups, a persistent challenge remains – the funding gap. As we continue to celebrate the rise of female entrepreneurs, it is crucial to acknowledge the systemic challenges they face, particularly the fact that investors still hesitate to trust solo women founders, creating barriers to their success. 

The popular television series 'Shark Tank', known for its presence in more than 40 countries, is set to launch a localised edition in Bangladesh. The show has already helped the startup scene in various countries, including the United States, Australia, Russia, and India. With all its impact, how will the business-oriented reality show fare in this country?

Last week, on February 15, 2024, Alliance Française de Dhaka hosted a book launching event for Dr Mahbubur Rahman’s 'L'État, C'est Moi'

For most of the publishers, pavilion planning commenced as early as mid January and the organisers left no stone unturned in terms of planning the layout.

An architectural exhibition titled "Learning from Puran Dhaka: Exploring the Future of Living Heritage" is currently underway at La Galerie of Alliance Française de Dhaka. Organised by a collaborative effort of architecture students from various prestigious universities and supported by distinguished dignitaries, the exhibition aims to shed light on the rich cultural heritage of Puran Dhaka and its significance in shaping the future urban landscape.

With rows upon rows of book stalls offering everything from timeless classics to contemporary bestsellers, navigating through this maze of books can be both exhilarating and overwhelming

In the early days of cinema, Hollywood was instrumental in shaping enduring love narratives that have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Two iconic films from this era, "Casablanca" (1942) and "Gone with the Wind" (1939), exemplify the themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience amidst adversity. As societal attitudes towards love evolved, so did the portrayal of relationships on screen. 

“Dhaka Makers”, an independent arts and crafts festival, is a vibrant platform for local artistes to showcase their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals. During my recent visit to the second edition of the event, I was impressed by the diverse range of stalls that highlighted a variety of Bangladeshi artworks.

The intersection of graphic novels and cinema is rather interesting, as these celluloid stories highlight the power of visual storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes that continue to redefine the cinematic landscape. Ranging from genres like crime to science fiction, these stories have influenced filmmakers beyond geographical borders.

Bollywood has seen its fair share of love stories, but "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" (DDLJ) has carved a special place in the hearts of audiences across generations. Released in 1995, this classic directed by Aditya Chopra is one of the longest-running films in the history of Indian cinema and continues to charm us even today.

This year is shaping up to be a thrilling time for movie enthusiasts as some of the most beloved film franchises are set to return with highly anticipated sequels. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming tales, audiences are eagerly awaiting the cinematic journeys that will unfold on the big screen. Here are some of the most exciting sequels coming ahead:

While technology may keep advancing over time, the need for a powerful, portable computer remains ever-present. If you are looking for high-quality laptops that will increase your efficiency in both personal and professional work, here is a list of premium laptops you can buy. Keep in mind that pricing and availability may vary across stores.

From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, this year is all set to bid farewell to storylines that have kept us on the edge of our seats and characters who have become a part of our lives. Here are some must-watch shows that are set to conclude their final seasons in 2024, delivering unforgettable moments that will resonate long after the final credits roll.

Dhanmondi has always had a cultural identity of its own – be it the grand two-storeyed family bungalows, the sounds of rehearsals at Chhayanaut, the majestic Eidgah Masjid, or the playfields that kids flocked to. Even with the sprawling high-rise buildings, Dhanmondi, its lake, and its street stalls still maintain its rustic charm.

The holiday season has always been synonymous with warmth, joy, and the timeless tradition of watching festive films that capture the spirit of the festivities. Over the years, these films have undergone a remarkable evolution, transitioning from timeless classics to contemporary gems. The golden age of holiday films is often associated with timeless classics that have become an integral part of our holiday traditions. 

"The Archies", directed by Zoya Akhtar, is a heartfelt journey down memory lane interwoven with the chords of a teen musical. This highly-anticipated Netflix film thereby presents a nostalgia-tinted fairytale-esque musical that resonates with both longtime fans and those new to the iconic characters.

From stereotypical representations to more nuanced and empathetic depictions, the industry has played a crucial role in shaping public attitudes towards people with disabilities. In commemoration of the World Day of Persons with Disabilities, we delve into the journey of disability portrayal in Bollywood films, exploring shifts in narratives and their impact on societal perceptions.

There are films that we enjoy, and then there are the ones that are hard to forget. The latter moves us from within and changes the way we look at life. For me, “Kal Ho Naa Ho” is indelible with its rollercoaster of emotions. Written by Karan Johar and directed by Nikkhil Advani, the film featuring a stellar cast including Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan, marks its 20th anniversary today – since its release. At its core, the film is an exploration of the various facets of love, beautifully woven into the vibrant tapestry of New York City. As the film turns 20 today, let us revisit it one more time to remind ourselves to “haso, jiyo, muskurayo, kya pata kal ho naa ho.” (live and laugh, for tomorrow may not be there).