Kalyani Kazi no more
Kalyani Kazi, daughter-in-law of Bangladesh national poet, passed away.
Musician Kalyani Kazi, the youngest daughter-in-law of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and wife of Kazi Aniruddha, passes away.
On Friday, May 12, she died at the age of 87 in Kolkata.
Nazrul Geeti sung by the outstanding singer, kept the audience mesmerized. In 2015, the West Bengal government awarded her as 'Sangeet Mahasamman'. She was a member of the advisory council of West Bengal Kazi Nazrul Islam Academy.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep grief and said, "The death of Kalyani Kazi is an irreparable loss to the music world. My sincere condolences to Kalyani Kazi's relatives and fans."
Comments
Barbara Taylor Bradford, Best-selling Novelist, Dies
Barbara Taylor Bradford, the acclaimed author of A Woman of Substance and a literary icon, has died at the age of 91. Known for her epic novels that captivated millions, her work remains a defining part of modern fiction.
Her first novel, A Woman of Substance, published in 1979, became a global phenomenon, selling 30 million copies and leading to seven sequels. The TV adaptation of the book remains Channel 4’s most-watched program to this day. This powerful tale of resilience and ambition launched a prolific career, during which Taylor Bradford wrote 40 novels, including popular series such as Ravenscar, Cavendon, and The House of Falconer.
Through her multigenerational sagas, Taylor Bradford reshaped the commercial fiction landscape, going beyond traditional romance to explore deep, lasting themes. Her publisher and editor, Lynne Drew, paid tribute to her remarkable influence, saying, "She embodied the woman of substance she created, especially with her tireless work ethic."
Beyond her literary legacy, Taylor Bradford is remembered for her empowering stories and unforgettable characters that inspired countless readers. Her novels, which celebrated ambition, determination, and the strength of women, will ensure her work lives on as a testament to her extraordinary talent. The world says goodbye to an author whose stories will resonate for generations.
Aishwarya's Video Went Viral Amid Divorce Rumors
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan are currently embroiled in controversy surrounding their marriage. With rumors of Aishwarya Rai living separately from her husband and reports of Abhishek Bachchan's alleged affair with Nimrat Kaur, every little thing that Bollywood's beloved couple does is grabbing headlines. Amid this, a hard-hitting video by Aishwarya Rai is going viral on social media in which the actress could be seen inspiring people to stand up for their own worth. The video is part of L'Oreal Paris' Stand Up Against Street Harassment Training Program.
In the video, Aishwarya Rai could be seen inspiring women to not fall prey to street harassment. "Street harassment, how to deal with it? Avoid eye contact? No. Look the problem directly in the eyes. Hold your head high. Feminine and feminist. My body, my worth. Never compromise your worth. Do not doubt yourself. Stand up for your worth. Don't blame your dress or your lipstick. Street harassment is never your fault," she said in the video promoting the campaign.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by AishwaryaRaiBachchan (@aishwaryaraibachchan_arb)
Aishwarya Rai's video is going viral, especially amid growing rumors surrounding her divorce from Abhishek Bachchan. Recently, the actress again grabbed headlines as she shared photos from her daughter Aaradhya's birthday bash sans Bachchan family members, including her husband.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan's divorce rumors first started in July this year when the actress attended the high-profile event of Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani's son Anant Ambani's wedding with Radhika Merchant without the Bachchan family, arriving solo with her daughter Aaradhya.
Slumdog Millionaire Sequel in the Works, Developed by Bridge7
Bridge7, a Los Angeles-based production company, has secured the rights to produce a sequel and TV adaptation of the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire. The company, co-founded by producer Swati Shetty and veteran CAA agent Grant Kessman, acquired the rights from UK-based Celador, the original producer of the 2008 hit alongside Film4.
This announcement brings exciting news for fans of the global sensation, which captivated audiences with its powerful story of hope, resilience, and destiny. Shetty and Kessman emphasized the enduring appeal of the film’s narrative in a statement.
“Some stories stay with us long after the credits roll, and Slumdog Millionaire is undoubtedly one of them. Its universal narrative transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. It’s the kind of story we cherish—one that merges entertainment with deep human experiences,” they said.
The sequel will build on the legacy of the original, exploring new themes while staying true to its core message. With Bridge7's dedication to meaningful storytelling, the project promises to evoke the same emotional impact that made the first film a cinematic classic.
Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting further details, including the storyline and cast.
Dhanush and Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth are Now Officially Divorced
Actor-director Dhanush and director Aishwarya Rajinikanth have finally been granted divorce by the Chennai family court on Wednesday, November 27.
The couple had a grand wedding in 2004, spending lavishly on the event. After being married for 18 years, they decided to part ways over irreconcilable differences. They have two sons, Yatra and Linga, and will continue to co-parent them.
Earlier this year, Dhanush and Aishwarya filed for divorce after announcing their separation on social media in January 2022. While the two did not appear for the court hearing three times, they were present in the Chennai court on November 21 for the in-camera proceedings.
The family coach, Shubha Devi, approved the divorce. Reports suggest that earlier hearings were delayed due to their absence.
Dhanush has been in the news due to a copyright case against Nayanthara. Dhanush and Aishwarya's marriage faced issues for many years before they decided to part ways. They have been living separately for the last two years. Their divorce was officially approved after they both agreed to it during the court proceedings.
Both Dhanush and Aishwarya come from prominent South Indian cinema families. Their wedding was a significant event, reflecting their status in the industry. Despite their separation, they continue to focus on their individual lives and careers.
Atif Aslam to Rock Stage in Dhaka Today
Popular Pakistani singer Atif Aslam will grace the stage of Dhaka on Friday (November 29). He will sing at the 'Magical Night 2.0' concert at the Army Stadium tonight. Atif arrived in Dhaka on the afternoon of November 28 for this concert.
Triple Time Communication, the concert organizer, said Atif will take the stage after 8 pm tonight. He has been to Dhaka several times before.
Apart from Atif, young Pakistani artist Abdul Hannan, Bangladeshi Tahsan Khan, and the band Kaktal will also perform at the concert. Apart from this, this concert will have a special surprise, which the organizing committee is not revealing right now.
The concert will start at 5 pm at the Bangladesh Army Stadium, and the gates will open for the audience at 1 pm.
Attack on Asaduzzaman Noor in Hospital
Former minister and former MP from Nilphamari-2 (Sadar) constituency Asaduzzaman Noor was attacked at the capital's Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).
The attack took place on the hospital premises around noon on Saturday (November 30).
Eyewitnesses said that Asaduzzaman Noor was brought to the hospital for treatment at noon. At that time, some students injured in the July-August movement attacked him. Later, the students were taken to the room of the hospital director, Brigadier General Rezaur Rahman. There, the director took their mobile phones.
However, although the director was called for comment on the matter, his statement could not be obtained.
Earlier, Asaduzzaman Noor was arrested from the capital on the night of September 15. He was later sent to jail.
Noor has represented the Awami League in parliament since 2001. In the last 12th National Parliament election, he was elected as a Member of Parliament from Nilphamari-2 constituency. In addition, after the Awami League's landslide victory in the 10th National Parliament election held on January 5, 2013, he took over as the Minister of Cultural Affairs on January 13, 2014 and served until January 7, 2019.
In addition to politics, Asaduzzaman Noor has acted in more than 110 television films and serials. His notable works on television include Eishob Dinratri (1985), Ayomoy (1988), Kothao Keu Nei (1990), Aaj Robibar (1999) and Somudro Bilas Private Limited (1999). Among them, he made a special place in the hearts of the audience by playing the character of 'Baker Bhai' in the serial 'Kothao Keu Nei'.
The number of his plays broadcast on radio is more than 50. Along with plays, he has also acted in films. The notable films he acted in are Shongkhonil Karagar (1992) and Aguner Poroshmoni (1994).
Asaduzzaman Noor received the Independence Award in 2018 for his contribution to culture. He has served as the president of the Bangladesh Recitation Coordination Council for a long time.
Rahat Fateh Ali To Perform For Free in Dhaka This December
Renowned Pakistani musician Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will perform a charity concert titled 'Echoes of Revolution' at the Army Stadium in Dhaka on December 21.
The concert aims to raise funds for the 'Shaheed July Smriti Foundation', which supports the families of martyrs and those injured during the July uprising, said organizers at a press conference at Madhu's canteen of Dhaka University.
A platform named 'Spirits of July', in collaboration with 'Shaheed July Smrity Foundation', is organizing the concert, with the support of Prime Bank, which will also feature bands Artcell, Chirkutt, Ashes, Aftermath, and rap artists Sezan and Hannan, reports BSS.
In a statement, they said, "To show solidarity with the families of the martyrs and those injured during the July Uprising, Spirits of July, a platform created by Dhaka University students, is organizing this concert on December 21."
"All proceeds from the concert will go to the Shaheed July Smriti Foundation, which is dedicated to assisting the families of those affected by the uprising", they said.
Spirits of July and the Shaheed July Smrity Foundation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on November 12 in this regard.
They said a contract was signed with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan on November 28. "He has graciously agreed to perform at the concert free of charge. The proceeds from ticket sales will go to affected families", said the organizers.
To ensure transparency and accountability, an advisory board consisting of Dhaka University faculty and prominent figures has been formed to oversee the financial matters of the event. Several members of the advisory board were present at the press conference.
DU International Relations Department student Hasan Mahmud Rizvi, Mass Communication and Journalism Department student Sadekur Rahman Sunny, Peace and Conflict Studies Department student Md Jafor Ali, and Islamic Studies Department student Wahid-Uz-Zaman read out the written statement.
Prime Bank Deputy Managing Director Md Ziaur Rahman and advisers of the concert Provost of DU Sir A. F. Rahman Hall Dr. Mahfujul Hoque Supan, Professor of DU Institute of Modern Languages Dr. Ansarul Alam, Associate Professor of Sociology department Mohammad Mahbub Kaiser, and DU Journalist's Association (DUJA) President Mohiuddin Muzahid Mahi were also present at the press conference.
Besides, the event will also include a graffiti exhibition reflecting the July Revolution, as well as an installment of Mugdha Water Zone.
Tickets for the concert will go on sale in early December. While ticket prices are yet to be finalized, organizers confirmed that three categories of tickets will be available.