Poet and former television actor Rifat Chowdhury, who gained popularity in Bengali drama, is currently undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital for a serious illness.

The second edition of the Chattogram International All-Women Film Festival 2026 concluded here after showcasing 45 films from six countries and hosting a variety of film-related events.  The three-day festival took place from September 17 to 19 at Alliance Française de Chattogram.  'Film for Us' and the Asian University for Women Film Club jointly organized the festival with the aim of screening films by female filmmakers, introducing audiences to their work, and creating opportunities for networking and the exchange of ideas among filmmakers.  This year’s festival featured screenings in three categories within the international competition: fiction, documentary, and digital storytelling.  Alongside works by female filmmakers from various countries, the festival included special screenings and unique events. A digital storytelling competition was introduced for the first time in this edition.  This category encompassed storytelling projects that utilize various digital media—such as images, videos, text, audio, and animation—moving beyond the conventional structures of filmmaking.  A highlight of the festival was the screening of Iranian films.  This special showcase of films by Iranian female filmmakers offered audiences in Chattogram a chance to engage with their work and perspectives.  It provided a unique cultural experience, particularly for young people and university students.

Pop star Ed Sheeran said Saturday the situation in Gaza is "unjustifiable," following a wave of criticism that he had failed to back his opening act who was booted from their tour after making pro-Palestinian comments.

Marking its first return to Bangladesh in seven years, the Japan Festival 2026 convened Friday at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital, showcasing traditional performing arts, martial arts, musical collaborations, culinary offerings and interactive exhibits.

Syrian singer Assala Nasri has made a triumphant return to Damascus with a sold-out concert following 15 years of exile due to her opposition to ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad.