Rakshanda Rahman Misha

From stage to street, artistes and activists led a cultural revolt against brutality and censorship

Recently, social media was flooded with her success story, as her work was selected as one of the top entries from over 7,000 submissions for London’s prestigious Drawing of the Year Awards. Her illustration was also featured in the Drawing of the Year 2025 book, earning her international recognition.

A year removed, the rapper has now voiced his frustration in an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, about how hip-hop artistes are being treated in shows organised in the aftermath of the July movement.

And just like that, the ‘Prince of Darkness’ is back in his kingdom. While the world mourns,  afterlife welcomes him home, with open arms. Ozzy is finally reunited with his beloved mama and his dearest friend, Randy Rhoads.

One year after the July Movement peaked, the Drissho Madhyam Shilpi Shomaj—a collective of theater, television, and movie artistes, filmmakers, cinematographers, and cultural activists—reconvened. Last year, they had staged a protest at Farmgate, raising their voices against the then-fascist government and supporting the students' nine-point demands.

The indie rock band has steadily broken free from its ‘niche’ label, surging in popularity during the pandemic. Their riveting lyrics, dynamic vocals, punchy guitar riffs, and tight rhythm section struck a chord with audiences, particularly through their breakout hit, “60’s Love”.

Being a ’90s kid, I’ve been a fan of R Madhavan since his stint in “Banegi Apni Baat”—the cute boy in glasses with the most adorable smile. Later on, Madhavan became the heartthrob of an entire nation when he made us fall in love with the charming yet problematic character ‘Maddy’ in “Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein”.

“With this music video, we tried to do something fresh. I don’t think anything like this has been done before for a Bangla song,” Sunidhi shared with visible excitement. “The teaser’s reaction has been overwhelming. People are sharing it non-stop. Credit goes to Adnan Al Rajeev. We created a fusion—adding electronic elements while also staying rooted in Bengali instruments and language.”

When Zarin Mahmood Shairy stepped onto the stage at Ms Global World Universal 2025–2026, she wasn’t just walking toward a crown—she was walking through a story years in the making.

You might know him as Sameer from Bongo’s “BnG”, or perhaps you recognise him as Jaya Ahsan’s younger brother in “Taandob”—either way, Saad Salmi Naovi is fast becoming a name to remember.

Cameos like these have long been a staple of Hollywood—the Marvel Cinematic Universe redefined the model, and Bollywood followed with its own versions like the YRF Spy Universe and Rohit Shetty’s Cop Universe.

Jannatul Sumaiya Heme, this Eid-ul-Azha will be a calm and cozy affair — a rare chance to slow down and spend time with loved ones in between a packed schedule of drama shoots.

For Shahnaz Sumi, Eid-ul-Azha has been just another day-- Each year unfolds in its own unique way, bringing fresh surprises and heartwarming moments that make the festival deeply meaningful for her.

For shopping and dining out, Tawsif prefers the convenience of paying by card. “It’s really hard carrying cash. With a card, you can buy anything, anywhere—it’s just more convenient,” he says.

A film enthusiast, Aisha’s Eid celebrations often include a trip to the theaters. “I’ve always been a big fan of Marvel and DC movies,” she beams. “But recently, my love for Bangla cinema has grown stronger. The quality and storytelling have improved so much—I now prioritise watching Bangla films during Eid.”

In an industry where schedules are packed and free moments are fleeting, Eid becomes a special window for reconnecting. “Usually, we don’t really get to see our relatives often because everyone’s so busy. But during Eid, everyone is free, and that gives us the chance to meet, talk, and share time together. I’m really looking forward to those chats and moments.”

The Bangladeshi 'Ken', known for his appearances in major Hollywood productions like “Barbie”, “Wicked”, and “Aladdin”, continues to make the country proud as he juggles acting, dancing, and interviewing some of Hollywood's biggest names.

For Shely, a devoted Baul singer from the village of Lakshmipur, music is not performance—it is prayer. Her father, Abdul Jolil Sordar, a Sadhu, always hoped that one of his daughters would become a Sadhu.

Israel’s blatant human rights violations in Gaza, Hollywood appears to be deeply divided. While some speak out against the ongoing violence and the loss of innocent Palestinian lives, others label pro-Palestinian voices as “antisemitic” — referring to hatred toward Jews. As a result, several celebrities — including Melissa Barrera and Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon — have faced backlash from Hollywood studios, with some even being fired or dropped by their agencies for expressing pro-Palestinian sentiments.

From back-to-back cinematic musical hits to earning praise for his acting on OTT platforms, Pritom Hasan is having a standout year. His collaboration with Shakib Khan and chart-topping tracks like “Chand Mama”, “Didha”, and the ever lively “Laage Ura Dhura” have solidified his reputation as one of the most sought-after musicians in Dhallywood.