An opera night in Dhaka might seem a bit of an oxymoron, but contradictions can often coexist. Such was the case on the evening of last Friday (September 30), when “Melodies of Vienna” unfolded, featuring opera singer Soprano Mila Janevska and pianist Silvia Vaterl in the capital.

A Dhaka team has officially been acquired by Remark, a health and beauty care brand, and Herlan, a cosmetics line, for the upcoming 11th Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The team, named Dhaka Capitals, is also being represented by Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan, considering he oversees the brands as their director.

Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury's film “Boli” (The Wrestler), which won an award at the Busan Film Festival, has been selected to represent Bangladesh in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.

It is worth mentioning that “Priyo Satyajit” is a film about the inner world and the life of the filmmaker. The story revolves around the creative journeys of two filmmakers from two different generations, both of whom are inspired by the ideals of Satyajit Ray. The role of the senior filmmaker was portrayed by the late, talented artiste Ahmed Rubel, while the younger generation filmmaker was played by Moutushi Biswas. The film was produced by the director’s own production house, Imation Creator.

Tony Buzbee, a Texas-based lawyer, revealed that he is representing 120 alleged victims, with the cases spanning from 1991 to 2023. Of these victims, 25 were minors at the time of the alleged abuse, marking the first time Combs has been accused of child sexual abuse.

Shubho Mahalaya, the most significant religious festival for Bengali Sanatan (Hindu) practitioners, marks the auspicious beginning of Durga Puja today. This day indicates the start of Devi Paksha, which is a crucial element of the Puja celebrations.

Ziaul Faruq Apurba is all set to emerge as the latest hero of Tollywood, marking his return to the big screen after an eight-year hiatus. The actor, especially popular on the small screen, will debut in West Bengal with “Chalchitra”, directed by Pratim D Gupta.

Originally being among the “Big Three” that popularised rock music in Bangladesh, he has long transcended his status as a musician to become a true cultural icon. The sheer response he derives out of any crowd, in any place and in any situation testifies his ever-lasting popularity among both avid music lovers and casual fans. Indeed, there can only be one 'Guru' and at the moment, it is none other than James.

Rafi, known for his hit films like “Poran” and “Damal,” among others broke the news about this next venture yesterday. Speaking to Bangla Tribune, he revealed, “My next film, which is slated for release during the upcoming Eid, is titled ‘Lion’. It will feature two leading men—Jeet from Tollywood and Razz from Dhallywood. Everything else you’ve heard is just rumours.”

The 30th edition of the prestigious “Kyoiku Bi Hon Ten” art exhibition, organised by the Shinkyuoku Art Association, opened on September 28, welcoming art enthusiasts from around the world.

Frank Darabont, the director of “The Shawshank Redemption”, came out of an 11-year directing hiatus when he was offered the chance to direct two episodes of “Stranger Things” Season 5. In a recent interview with The Daily Beast, he revealed that it was the emotional core of the blockbuster Netflix series that inspired him to return to directing.

This six-day celebration will showcase over 110 films from more than 45 countries, encompassing over 50 languages, lengths, and genres as part of its official selection.

Coldplay has officially revealed their plans to retire from making music albums, announcing that the band will stop after their 12th studio release. In an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, frontman Chris Martin shared that the British band’s 10th album is set to be released on October 4, with just two more albums planned before their retirement from the studio.

Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy has returned to his iconic role as Tommy Shelby in the “Peaky Blinders” film as confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter. The Birmingham gangster drama, created by Steven Knight, is being adapted into a feature-length movie.

Yesterday, the film, presented by the beauty brand Lily, premiered on the OTT platform Binge. Alongside the main cast and director, the premiere was attended by several celebrities, including Bidya Sinha Mim, Prarthana Fardin Dighi, Samira Khan Mahi, Rukaiya Jahan Chamak, and Senior Operative Director Hasan Faruk of Remark HB, among others.

He also became a household name through his roles in the iconic drama series “Kothao Keu Nei” and “Eishob Din Ratri”. Additionally, he appeared in popular series like “Ekannoborti”, “69”, and “Poush Phaguner Pala”.

After a period of uncertainty, actress Jyotika Jyoti has officially been relieved of her position at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. She had been serving as the director of the Research and Publication Department on a contractual basis, a role she was appointed to during the former government's tenure.

The newly established Film Certification Board held its inaugural screening on Monday, September 30, showcasing two films — “Bhoyal” and “Rajkumari”.

Tota, known for his candid nature, did not shy away from explaining the reasons behind his departure. He revealed that, just before signing the contract, he was informed that 30% of his earnings would be taxed by the Bangladesh government. "That’s their rule, and that’s where I had a problem," he stated.

The accusation has left Chowdhury both shocked and saddened. "It’s really unfortunate and painful,” he said, responding to the claims. “I’ve always kept in touch with Doyel, and she never brought up any outstanding payments. Yes, sometimes final payments can be delayed, but making such sweeping public statements is unfair. I was genuinely surprised to hear her remarks."