In a career that spanned over six decades, Zakir Hussain worked with not just India’s musical stalwarts like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan but also legends like George Harrison and Van Morrison.

Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign state on December 16, 1971, following a nine-month-long Liberation War. This year, the nation celebrates Victory Day with renewed fervour, especially after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s regime on August 5, 2024.  

As part of the annual Victory Month celebrations, an open-air concert, titled “Shobar Agey Bangladesh” (Bangladesh First), has just kicked off in the capital. Held at Manik Mia Avenue, the event is set to run till 11pm today (December 16), bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated artistes and performers.

The film stars Mehazabien Chowdhury in the title role, making her first-ever appearance on the big screen after a 15-year career primarily on television. “Priyo Maloti” is set to hit cinemas on December 20, produced by Frame Per Second in collaboration with streaming platform Chorki.

Amitabh Bachchan expressed his sorrow on his blog, calling Hussain “a genius, an unmatched maestro… an immeasurable loss.” Kamal Haasan shared a personal memory, posting an image of himself playing tabla with Hussain. “Zakir Bhai! He left too soon. Yet we are grateful for the times he gave us and what he left behind in the form of his art. Goodbye and thank you,” Haasan wrote.

The film won an award at the Bengaluru International Film Festival, and was also nominated for the ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal at India’s 53rd International Film Festival. "The recognition ‘Nakshikanthar Zamin’ has received abroad is a significant achievement for this film,” remarks Jaya.

This year, the Victory Day feels particularly significant due to this year’s powerful uprising. To commemorate this special day, here are some events to help you embrace the spirit of patriotism. 

Legendary tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain has passed away at a hospital in San Francisco, his family announced on Monday. 

The Liberation War, while emblematic of unparalleled heroism, is equally a tale of immense loss and suffering. Over the years, filmmakers have explored various aspects of this historic conflict through the medium of cinema. Let us revisit some of the most notable films that captured the essence of this epochal event.

Taylor Swift’s 35th birthday turned into a heartwarming celebration with her boyfriend, National Football League (NFL) star Travis Kelce. According to Page Six, a source close to the couple shared that Travis went all out to make the day special by arranging a private celebration and showering the pop sensation with a “ton of gifts.”

Acclaimed director Sam Mendes is set to bring the story of The Beatles to life in a series of highly anticipated biopics, with the latest casting news already creating a stir. According to Deadline, Joseph Quinn, best known for his breakout role in “Stranger Things”, will portray George Harrison. 

The film, set for release next week, depicts Maloti’s fight for survival after losing her husband in a fire and failing to receive any government aid. Based on a true story, "Priyo Maloti" delves into the emotional and social struggles of a woman battling grief, poverty, and the system.

The Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna starrer “Pushpa 2” is making history with its unprecedented box office performance.

Veteran Bangladeshi filmmaker CB Zaman has been admitted to the ICU at a private hospital in the capital following a serious health complication. The 79-year-old director, known for his acclaimed works in films like “Ujan Bhati,” “Jhorer Pakhi,” and “Puroshkar,” was rushed to Universal Medical College Hospital on Friday, December 13, after suffering a medical emergency at home.

The collection features 12 unreleased songs thought to have been created between 1989 and 1991, during the lead-up to Michael Jackson’s “Dangerous” album.

Actress Jaya Ahsan, who has already made a significant mark on India’s OTT platforms, is now set to venture into Bangladeshi web series with her debut project, “Jimmi.” 

Radhika Apte, renowned for her diverse roles in films, tends to keep her personal life out of the public eye. Recently, she surprised her followers by posting the first photo of her one-week-old baby to announce her journey into motherhood.

Luca Guadagnino is bringing a fresh take on Bret Easton Ellis' 1991 novel “American Psycho” to the silver screen.

Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey recently surprised fans by announcing a break from acting. He revealed that his decision was fueled by social media pressure.

In a surprising twist, Disney+ has officially announced the revival of the iconic sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle,” as reported by Variety.