The journey of creating “Jaya Aar Sharmin” began five years ago, when the world came to a sudden halt. Born amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, this heartfelt, small-scale production is now ready for its big-screen debut in multiplexes across the country on May 16.

There are few things as consistent as our unstable Wi-Fi, existential dread, and a go-to playlist of Korean dramas to cushion reality’s blows—especially for Gen Z, myself included. To love K-dramas is to willingly suspend disbelief, bask in a world where minor inconveniences spiral into grand epiphanies, and where misunderstandings are solved with monologues. The question is not why we watch K-dramas, but why, in a country that has its fair share of daily drama, we still crave more — and from 5,000 kilometres away, no less.

The excitement surrounding the Met Gala is reaching its annual high, as the fashion world awaits one of its most glamorous nights. However, the anticipation in India is especially intense this year, with several of Bollywood’s brightest stars set to make an appearance at the 2025 Met Gala. From legends like Shah Rukh Khan to new-generation favourites like Kiara Advani, the event is shaping up to be a vibrant celebration of style, culture, and innovation.

“John Henry” was written by playwright Zamiur Rahman Lemon in 1985, inspired by the song “Naam Tar Chilo John Henry” by artiste Hemanga Biswas. Lemon has now thus reimagined the play for television.

International Workers’ Day, observed today, marks a historic day steeped in the struggles and sacrifices of workers across the world. Over the years, writers in every language have penned poems, novels, and stories about labour movements, while musicians have voiced their solidarity through songs. Equally powerful are the cinematic portrayals of working-class lives—films that go beyond mere entertainment to provoke thought and reflection.

Veteran Bangladeshi actor Rahmat Ali turned 66 yesterday (April 30), marking the milestone not with celebration, but by doing what he loves most- acting. The acclaimed stage, television, and film actor spent his birthday on the set of a Bangladesh Television (BTV) drama, alongside his wife and fellow actress Wahida Mallik Jolly.

Maasranga Television’s popular programme “Binodon Saradin” celebrates a major milestone today with the broadcast of its 2000th episode

Directed by Shah Newaz Khan Cju, “Not a Fiction” is a powerful cinematic document that boldly addresses the extrajudicial killings that have plagued Bangladesh’s landscape over the past two decades. Before it's Prague success, the film had already toured three Oscar-qualifying and two Canadian Screen Award-qualifying festivals.

The project is being directed by noted filmmaker Shihab Shaheen, and is expected to premiere soon on an OTT platform.

Azad Abul Kalam, president of the Actors' Equity, has expressed concern after hearing about these incidents.

Actress Jenna Ortega is preparing to step behind the camera for the first time, revealing she’s been quietly developing a personal script for nearly a decade. In a recent interview with V Magazine, the “Wednesday” star shared that the story, which she conceived at the beginning of her acting career, now feels ready to come to life.

Duronto TV is set to commemorate International Workers’ Day with a special dance production titled “Nongor Tolo Tolo”. The performance blends mass songs with choreography by M R Wasek, featuring dancers from Nandankala Kendra.

Actress Mehbooba Mahnoor Chandni, known for her acclaimed performances in films like “Dukhai”, “Lalsalu”, and “Joyjatra”, is returning to the small screen after a long break. The National Film Award-winning actress enjoyed massive success through television dramas while working. She recently completed shooting for the drama “Tumi Ami O Se”, directed by Azizul Hakim and written by his wife, Zeenat Hakim.

In a Facebook post, Sajib compared the film’s opening to that of another Swapna Scarecrow release, “Priyotoma”. He wrote, "Remember ‘Priyotoma’s’ opening? In its first three days, it grossed $44,000 from 42 theatres across North America. In comparison, ‘Jongli’ brought in $35,000 from 33 theatres.” 

Acclaimed filmmaker Payal Kapadia is set to return to the Cannes Film Festival in 2025 — but not with a film this time. She joins the main competition jury, becoming one of the select few Indian filmmakers to take a seat on the prestigious panel.

The Korean drama arrives through the efforts of production house Views & Visions, with dubbing director Khalid Hossain Avi at the helm.

The film “Pinik”, starring Ador Azad and Bubly, is gearing up for release this Eid-ul-Azha. The film was officially announced last November with the unveiling of its first-look poster, initially targeting a release during Eid-ul-Fitr. However, the plan did not materialise, and the film’s team is now aiming for an Eid-ul-Azha release.

When asked about his closest friendships in the industry, he paused briefly before saying, “There were many dear friends, though sadly many are no longer with us. Actor Alamgir remains a very close friend. We share a wonderful bond, often meeting at each other’s homes or offices and speaking almost daily. This friendship is very special to me.”

Suchanda not only flourished as one of the most celebrated actresses of her time, making her debut with “Kagojer Nouka”, but also proved her artistry behind the camera by directing the acclaimed film “Haajar Bachhar Dhorey ”. Honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Film Awards, she has long since stepped away from the glamour of cinema. But how does she spend her days now? How is the beloved actress of yesteryear? The Daily Star sat down with her to find out.

Throughout the July protests, the actor was seen participating in numerous demonstrations, advocating for justice and safety for the youth. His fellow artistes, directors, and colleagues, who marched beside him during those turbulent days, have come forward in strong protest against the accusations now leveled against him.