After July 2024, Bangladesh discovered a renewed sense of unity as the nation came together to stand against injustice. Over time, however, we began to notice divisions forming among the people. Some started questioning the very essence of our Liberation War itself. To confront this growing apathy and division, some cultural voices of the July movement divulge their take on what is at stake for the soul of our nation.

The nation will mark the 54th Victory Day with a comprehensive programme that combines spectacle and remembrance, featuring parachute displays, live music, theatre, television broadcasts, and community-led cultural events, all coordinated by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and different national TV channels.

A fraud case has been filed in a Dhaka court against organisers, including a co-founder of Main Stage Inc, following the cancellation of Pakistani singer Atif Aslam's December 13 concert and the alleged failure to refund tickets.

Necropolitics— a social or political power that determines who gets to live and who does not. Just the thought of this unfair monstrosity makes one shiver, doesn’t it? But it is the way of the world now. To make a bold statement against necropolitics all around the world, The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) presented “Rupantor: The Resonance Show”, a sustainability-focused fashion and performance project that transformed discarded materials into wearable narratives, with design, movement and social reflection.

Titled “Apon Aloy Shahid Mahmud Jangi: Gaaney Gaaney Souttor,” the programme brought together musicians, writers, and cultural figures to reflect on Jangi’s contribution to Bangladeshi music. The event was organised by Ajob Karkhana.

Choudhury offered a stark diagnosis of the present. Bangladesh, he said, is moving away from the spirit of the martyred intellectuals for two reasons: a shrinking practice of history and its growing distortion; and a widening distance from the dreams and consciousness of the Liberation War.

Children’s television channel Duronto TV has announced a series of special programmes to mark Victory Day on December 16, aiming to inspire young viewers with the spirit and ideals of Bangladesh’s independence.

Tension-filled web film “Omimangshito” is set to premiere on OTT platform iScreen today. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Raihan Rafi, the film has already generated strong curiosity following the release of its trailer.

Filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner has died at the age of 78, along with his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, 68, after they were found dead at their home in Brentwood, Los Angeles. Authorities are investigating the incident as an apparent homicide, according to US media reports.

Actress Bidya Sinha Mim is set to work for the first time on a project for popular OTT platform Chorki. She recently signed a contract for an untitled Chorki original film, which is scheduled to go on the floors later this month. The film will be directed by Kazi Asad, who previously helmed the Chorki original series “Adhunik Bangla Hotel”, starring Mosharraf Karim.

Recently, Azmeri Haque Badhan has shared an inspiring story on losing 18kgs within 6 months. The actress who will start shooting for “Bonolota Express” today, told her fans what really motivated her to go through this transformative journey.

An exhibition combining visual art, film and literature titled “Matarbari Tales – Home Is Where The Heart Is” is set to be held in Cox’s Bazar and Dhaka this month, highlighting the lived experiences of coastal communities affected by rapid industrialisation.

Real life is messy; algorithms tidy it up. Maybe that’s why we love Wrapped so much. Maybe that’s why we forgive it when it gets things wrong. And maybe that’s why we laugh every year when the Pritam meme resurfaces, because the truth is, no matter what we listen to, Wrapped tells us a story we are secretly eager to believe.

The post-production work for the political thriller “Master” was done in South Korea. Involved in the post-production are Steve M Choe, editor of Bong Joon-ho’s “Snowpiercer”, and Han Mohwan, sound designer of Lee Chang-dong’s “Burning”.

The recent wave of concert cancellations due to promotional campaigns and ticket sales without proper authorisation has created disappointment among fans, musicians, and organisers alike.

The performance took place at the Thikana News office, where Kabir appeared on stage alongside another vocalist as Mamdani joined them in the room.

John Cena’s farewell appearance turned into an emotional night for wrestling fans worldwide, as the longtime standard-bearer stepped into the ring for the final time. The 17-time world champion faced Gunther in a hard-hitting contest that saw both competitors push each other to the limit.

Cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki inaugurated the exhibition as chief guest. Renowned artists Professor Dr Abdus Sattar and Professor Mostafizul Haque attended the event as guests of honour, while Mr Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed, director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, presided over the ceremony.

The celebration drew music enthusiasts and well-wishers who gathered to commemorate the artiste’s enduring legacy in Bengali music.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Adapted from a beloved novel by Humayun Ahmed’s novel “Kichukkhon”, the film “Bonolota Express” is all set to go on the floors from December 15.