United News of Bangladesh

The Salt Path, a widely celebrated memoir of resilience and healing, has come under intense scrutiny following allegations that key elements of the story may have been fabricated—raising questions about the integrity of the narrative and the future of both the book and its recent film adaptation. Authored by Raynor Winn, The Salt Path recounts the journey of Winn and her husband, Moth, as they trekked 630 miles along England’s South West Coast Path after losing their home and learning of Moth’s rare terminal illness, corticobasal degeneration (CBD). The memoir resonated with millions, selling over 2 million copies, spawning two sequels, and leading to a film adaptation starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. However, a report published last Sunday by The Observer has challenged the veracity of the memoir. The investigation claims the couple’s real names are Sally and Timothy Walker and that their financial downfall stemmed not from a failed investment, as stated, but from allegations of embezzlement. It also alleges the couple were not actually homeless, as they reportedly owned a house in France at the time. Stay cool with these heat-fighting gadgets and wearables Further doubts have been cast over Moth’s medical condition. Experts interviewed by The Observer questioned whether he had CBD at all, citing his apparent recovery and lack of typical symptoms. In response, Penguin Michael Joseph, the book’s publisher, announced on Friday that the release of Winn’s upcoming book On Winter Hill would be delayed. The decision follows growing public concern and what the publisher described as “intrusive conjecture” about the couple’s circumstances. Winn has rejected the allegations as “highly misleading,” while admitting to “mistakes” in her business past. She released documents that she claims support Moth’s diagnosis and said the backlash had left them “devastated.” Penguin stated that it had conducted “the necessary pre-publication due diligence” and had received no prior complaints about the book. Eminent poet Al Mahmud’s 89th birth anniversary being celebrated Friday As questions loom over future sales and the film’s U.S. distribution, the controversy has already begun impacting the author’s public engagements. Winn has withdrawn from her planned appearance on the Saltlines tour due to ongoing legal proceedings. Source: Agency 

Sitting in front of an open fridge might bring temporary relief, but for serious heat waves, it’s hardly a long-term solution. As temperatures soar around the world, people are turning to all kinds of cooling gadgets — from compact personal fans and chilled neck wraps to high-tech vests and breezy headgear — for comfort in the sweltering heat. While these devices can help, they’re most effective when combined with basic heat safety: staying hydrated, resting in the shade, and avoiding extreme heat when possible. Always know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Still, these innovative tools can bring much-needed relief — and while they may look unusual, they can become essentials when the AC can't keep up and the pavement feels like a frying pan. At-Home Cooling SolutionsTo keep cool indoors, consider switching to breathable, lightweight sheets or those with a silky texture. Bed fans — which circulate air under your blankets — or gel-filled cooling pillows and pads can also help. Popular sleep brands offering these include Serta, Casper, Sealy, Pluto, and Threshold. Cooling pads come in sizes for both people and pets, while mattress options from brands like Chilipad, BedJet, and 8Sleep offer full-body cooling. Outdoor WearablesClare Epstein, a workplace safety expert at Vector Solutions in Tampa, recommends wearable gear such as cooling vests and scarves, especially for workers in high-heat industries like agriculture and construction. These items are activated by soaking in cold water and slowly release a cooling effect throughout the day. Some garments use “phase change materials” (PCMs) — gel-filled components that help regulate body temperature. Uline, for example, offers vests that stay below 60°F for hours, and AlphaCool has a kid-safe neck wrap that doesn’t get too cold. Warmies also makes a freezer-friendly line of plush animal toys — ideal for kids on hot days out. Fan-powered wearables, thermoelectric cooling devices, and hydration vests that carry water or electrolyte solutions are other great options. “They help people take more water breaks and stay properly hydrated,” Epstein says. Cooling accessories come in many forms — headbands, wristbands, socks, scarves, wide-brimmed hats, and baseball caps — with brands like Mission, Ergodyne, and Sunday Afternoons leading the way. Prefer a breeze? Try a handheld or wearable fan with a USB-rechargeable battery. Expert Tips for Staying CoolLynn Campbell, co-founder of 10Adventures in Calgary, and her husband Richard, have developed some tried-and-true methods for beating the heat on hiking and cycling trips. They start activities early in the morning and rest during the hottest parts of the day, ideally by water or in shade. Their key advice: wear breathable, light-colored clothing and carry a compact umbrella. “That’s been a game-changer,” Lynn says. They also freeze water bottles and use them to douse themselves with icy water or place them on key cooling points — like under the arms, on the neck, or in the groin — for fast relief. For those struggling to sleep in the heat, Apartment Therapy writer Annita Katee suggests freezing your bedsheets. She folds them into a plastic bag, flattens it, and places it in the freezer a few hours before bed. “The result,” she says, “is a bed that feels like a refreshing oasis.”

A four-day art camp titled 'SPBA Bhutan Art Camp 2025' has recently commenced at the Bangladesh Embassy in Thimphu, Bhutan, bringing together eight Bangladeshi and two Bhutanese artists for a collaborative exploration of creativity and cultural exchange. Organised by the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art (SPBA), the camp began on Monday (July 8) and will continue until July 12, according to a message received here on Friday. A total of eight Bangladeshi artists — including Ekushey Padak-winning eminent artist Kanak Chanpa Chakma — are participating in the camp. The other Bangladeshi artists are Azmeer Hossain, Shahid Qazi, Suman Wahed, Saikat Hussain, Farzana Rahman Bobby, Rupshree Hajong and Gallery Cosmos Artistic Director Sourav Chowdhury. They are joined by two promising Bhutanese artists — Ugyen Tshering Doya and Kishor Dahal. 'Alchemy of Light': Gallery Cosmos hosts workshop by Juton Chandra Roy Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Kanak Chanpa Chakma said, “The new building of the Bangladesh Embassy in Bhutan, designed by renowned architect Rafiq Azam, calls for several paintings as part of its architectural concept. With his design and in collaboration with the embassy's overall vision, we, the eight Bangladeshi and two Bhutanese artists, are participating in this art camp.” “We are collectively creating around 35 to 40 artworks, which will be installed in the newly constructed embassy. These works will be visible to people from both Bhutan and Bangladesh as representations of our artistic identity, and I believe this is a wonderful initiative,” she stated. Bangladesh Ambassador to Bhutan, Shib Nath Roy, visited the camp and commended the effort, interacting with the participating artists and expressing his appreciation for the cultural collaboration.  

The 89th birth anniversary of Al Mahmud, one of the most prominent voices in modern Bangla poetry, is being observed on Friday with reverence and remembrance across literary circles in the country. Born on July 11, 1936, in Brahmanbaria, Al Mahmud (full name - Mir Abdus Shukur Al Mahmud) played a pivotal role in reshaping Bangla poetry in the post-Tagore era. His acclaimed collection 'Sonali Kabin' (Golden Dowry) brought together themes of rural life, love, history, nationalism, and spirituality in a lyrical and distinctly local voice, earning him wide recognition. In the early hours of Friday, Bangla Academy paid tribute to the late poet through a commemorative social media post. In the post, the Academy remembered Al Mahmud’s contributions to Bangla literature and noted that he had been awarded the Bangla Academy Literary Award in 1968. The post also recalled how, following his death on February 15, 2019, his body was brought to the Academy’s Nazrul Mancha the next day for people to pay their final respects. As part of the tribute, the Academy shared two archival photographs of Al Mahmud taken at the Academy premises, alongside a solo portrait provided by Photoseum, the photography initiative of the Ekushey Padak-winning eminent photographer and Bangla Academy Fellow Nasir Ali Mamun. In a deeply personal reflection, Nasir Ali Mamun shared a poignant note on the aforementioned Facebook post of Bangla Academy, stating, “Even during his lifetime, Al Mahmud was forcibly erased. This story is long." Poet Al Mahmud’s 84th birth anniversary observed "In 1974, he was imprisoned. I, too, was in the same cell with him at Dhaka Central Jail for some days. We haven’t forgotten the brutality of the Rakkhi Bahini," Nasir Ali Mamun recalled, referencing the documentation of these events in Ahmed Musa’s book 'Itihasher Kathgoray Awami League' and in Al Mahmud’s own memoirs. Mamun continued, “Individuals and institutions deliberately tried to erase the poet from poetry; what remains is the heavy sorrow and the history of a culture of neglect, and today, that sorrow rises with a howl. Let us celebrate the sorrowful poet Al Mahmud. Thank you, Bangla Academy.” Throughout his career, Al Mahmud published a vast body of work including poetry, fiction, and essays. His literary voice was closely tied to the nation’s cultural and political transformations, from the Language Movement to post-independence complexities. Despite facing political censorship and personal adversity, his poetry endured—often circulating beyond mainstream platforms. Al Mahmud’s major publications include the poetry collections 'Lok Lokantor', 'Kaler Kalosh', 'Sonali Kabin', 'Mayabi Porda Dule Otho', 'Arobbo Rojonir Rajhash', and 'Bokul Chokh'; novels such as 'Kobi O Kolahol', 'Purusher Jobanbondi', and 'Upomohadesh'; short story collections like 'Pankourir Rokto' and 'Duhshomoy'; and his memoir 'Jiboner Jolchhobi'. Al Mahmud’s 83rd birth anniversary Today, Al Mahmud is remembered not only as a poet of unmatched lyrical beauty but also as a symbol of resistance against cultural marginalization. His legacy continues to shape the literary landscape of Bangladesh.

Famous Indian actress and lawmaker Jaya Bachchan recently stirred debate after suggesting that the internet is a key factor behind anxiety among today’s youth, a claim her daughter Shweta disagreed with. In a previously aired episode of her granddaughter Navya Naveli Nanda's podcast, What The Hell Navya, the eminent actress raised concerns about Gen Z's mental health, blaming their constant dependence on digital validation. She said young people today often feel pressured to respond quickly to calls and messages and constantly seek approval from what they see online, which she believes is a key factor in increased stress and anxiety. “You get your validation from the internet. Are you saying the right thing? Are you looking okay? All of this adds to your stress,” Jaya remarked. She also added that terms like “anxiety attack” were not common and were unheard of during her youth and even well into her middle age. Group art exhibition ‘AESTHETE’ underway at Alliance Française de Dhaka However, Jaya's daughter, Shweta Bachchan, offered a contrasting perspective, suggesting that anxiety isn't a new phenomenon due to the internet. It was a problem even in the earlier times that’s more openly spoken now. The exchange has sparked wider conversations and generational views around mental health and digital life.   

Thousands of enthusiastic fans gathered at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo on Thursday to celebrate the first birthday of Moo Deng, a beloved baby pygmy hippopotamus who has taken social media by storm. The zoo, located about two hours from Bangkok, kicked off a four-day birthday celebration with free entry for children under 12. The festivities drew huge crowds, with zoo officials confirming that more than 12,000 people visited on the first day. Fans Fly in from Around the World Among Moo Deng’s global admirers was Molly Swindall from New York, who flew to Thailand just to attend the event. “I had a few days off work and thought, ‘Why not?’ Even if it’s only for 30 hours, it’s worth it to see Moo Deng,” she said. Swindall was seen handing a breakfast tray to Moo Deng’s keeper, which the hippo shared with her mother, Jona. The baby hippo remained calm in her pond as visitors took pictures and sang “Happy Birthday.” A cake made of fruits and vegetables was placed beside her enclosure, adding to the festive mood. “She’s my happy pill, my energy pill, my curing pill—she’s my vitamin!” said Thea Chavez, who came from Houston, Texas. Jennifer Tang, who traveled from Malaysia, said, “Whenever I’m stressed at work, I just look at Moo Deng’s photos. My entire office knows I’m here—they gave me a week off!” Birthday Auctions and Fan Activities To mark the occasion, the zoo held online auctions featuring Moo Deng’s photos, footprints, and feeding bowls, raising funds to support animal care. Sponsorship of her birthday cake was auctioned off for 100,000 baht (around $3,065). From Viral Star to Symbol of Conservation Moo Deng rose to fame soon after birth thanks to her keeper, Atthapon Nundee, who regularly shares heartwarming videos of her on social media—from playful biting to belly rubs. Her name, “Moo Deng,” which means “bouncy pork” in Thai, was chosen through an online poll. It follows the zoo’s naming theme, matching her siblings Moo Toon (stewed pork) and Moo Waan (sweet pork), and another resident hippo named Kha Moo (stewed pork leg). Though the zoo experienced a surge in visitors after Moo Deng's birth, the current turnout has normalized to around 2,000 visitors on weekdays and 5,000 on weekends—roughly half of the earlier peak, said zoo director Narongwit Chodchoy. “Moo Deng is more than just a social media star—she’s a voice for endangered wildlife,” Narongwit said. “She’s helping people understand the vital role zoos play in conservation.” The 800-hectare zoo houses more than 2,000 animals and runs breeding programs for several endangered species, including the pygmy hippopotamus, which is native to West Africa and critically threatened due to poaching and habitat loss. Only 2,000–3,000 are estimated to remain in the wild.

In Bangladesh, rural communities and agricultural activities often bring people close to natural habitats. As a result, encounters with snakes are not uncommon, especially during the monsoon season. Despite advances in medical care, many lives are still endangered due to panic-driven decisions. It even extends to widespread misconceptions surrounding snake bites. Consequently, understanding the right actions and avoiding harmful myths is crucial. Let’s uncover the vital do’s and don’ts while giving first aid to a snakebitten person. Critical Do’s for Immediate Response to Snake Bite  A person bitten by a snake should be taken to the hospital without delay. While waiting for medical help or on the way, follow these immediate steps to support the affected person: Help the Victim Stay Calm Snake bites often cause extreme fear, which can be dangerous in itself. Reassure the person and help reduce their anxiety. In fact, non-venomous snake bites are not fatal, and most snakes in Bangladesh are not venomous. Even when venomous, many snakes fail to inject enough venom to cause serious harm. Limit Movement The affected limb should be kept still. Too much movement can spread the venom more quickly. It’s best to keep the person lying in a semi-reclining position. Avoid walking or jostling them. Read more: How to Stay Safe from Devil's Breath Pressure Immobilisation Lightly wrap a bandage around the bitten area to slow the spread of venom. If a bandage isn’t available, use a scarf, towel, or any clean cloth. This method is known as pressure immobilisation. Help with Breathing If Needed If the person stops breathing, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation immediately. Sanitize the Bitten Area Gently cleanse the site with mild soap and water. Then wipe it lightly using a damp cloth to reduce the risk of infection. Remove Tight Items Take off jewellery, watches, or amulets near the wound. These can restrict blood flow if swelling occurs and interfere with treatment. Read more: Russell's Viper: Myths, Facts, and Everything You Need to Know

Tsukudani, a sweet Japanese side dish commonly served with hot rice, traces its origins back to the samurai era in a small neighborhood called Tsukuda in old Tokyo. In Japanese, adding “ni” to a word indicates the dish is cooked in that place. Today, professional tsukudani is available packaged at many Asian food stores and, naturally, in the Tsukuda area itself. A Tokyo correspondent for The Associated Press shares a basic tsukudani recipe that anyone can try at home. Tsukudani involves simmering bite-sized pieces of meat or vegetables in a dark, sweet sauce over low heat. The ideal flavor develops after about an hour, allowing the sauce to fully infuse into the food. It is important to watch the pot carefully during cooking. Traditionally, tsukudani is served alongside hot rice or sake, or it can be used as a filling for rice balls. The surprising health benefits of mangoes, says nutritionist Easy Tsukudani recipe, from AP’s Yuri Kageyama Preparation time: One hourServings: 5 Ingredients: ·         ½ cup of clams, tuna, seaweed, shrimp, meat, or other desired ingredients ·         ¼ cup sliced ginger ·         2 tablespoons sugar ·         ½ teaspoon salt ·         1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine) ·         2 tablespoons soy sauce ·         1 teaspoon sake (rice wine) ·         2 teaspoons roasted sesame seeds Directions:Chop the clams, tuna, seaweed, shrimp, or meat into small pieces about the size of a pea. Slice the ginger into thin pieces. Combine all ingredients in a large pot and cook over low heat for about one hour, until the liquid evaporates. Finish by sprinkling roasted sesame seeds on top.

Popular book retailer and publishing house ‘Baatighar’ has stepped into its 21st year, marking the occasion with a vibrant celebration titled ‘Alap, Adda, Abritti O Gaan’ on Tuesday at its flagship store inside the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro building in the capital’s Banglamotor. The event brought together writers, readers, artists, journalists, and well-wishers, creating a lively gathering that reflected the institution’s growing legacy as a literary and cultural hub. Speaking at the celebration, noted educationist and founder of Bishwo Shahitto Kendro Professor Abdullah Abu Sayeed said, “The book trade in Bangladesh is now in its second generation, and ‘Baatighar’ is leading the way. They have set a standard by proving that a bookstore can be both attractive and intellectually engaging; witnessing ‘Baatighar’s growth brings me joy.” Addressing the decline in book sales, Professor Sayeed added, “It’s not about how many read books—what matters is that those who do are the ones capable of moving a nation and society forward.” Eminent intellectual Badruddin Umar praised ‘Baatighar’ for publishing quality books and urged greater focus on translation to enrich Bangla literature. “It’s a matter that has been long overdue; and if publishers like ‘Baatighar’ emphasize translation, the next generation will benefit tremendously,” he said. Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan said, “To survive 21 years is no small feat for any business. Even though books may not be the most commercially viable product, ‘Baatighar’’s perseverance gives us hope in this country.” In a welcome message, Planning Adviser Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud said, “Like the creative bookstores found in major cities around the world, ‘Baatighar’ has established itself as a leading and innovative publishing house in Bangladesh. I wish ‘Baatighar’ continued success and growing recognition among readers and writers alike.” Group art exhibition ‘AESTHETE’ underway at Alliance Française de Dhaka Other speakers at the event included Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser Shafiqul Alam, Professor Mansur Musa, writers Anisul Hoque, Mohit Kamal, Badal Syed, Altaf Parvez, Afsana Begum, artist Shaheenur Rahman, July revolutionary Umama Fatema, and journalist-presenter Deepti Chowdhury, among others. The event began at 5 pm, and the cultural performances continued in between by Warda Ashraf, Dipankar Dey, Gargi Ghosh and others. Founded in a modest 10x10-foot room in Chattogram’s Cheragi Pahar with minimal capital and enormous love for books, ‘Baatighar’ began its journey on June 17, 2005. As of June 17, 2025, it has completed 20 years and entered its 21st. Now with six branches across four major cities—Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet and Rajshahi—‘Baatighar’ boasts spacious, elegantly designed bookstores, including outlets in Shahbagh and Banglabazar in the capital. In 2017, ‘Baatighar’ formally launched as a full-fledged publishing house and has since published over 400 titles, earning acclaim at home and abroad for its high-quality content, precise editing, appealing cover designs, and durable binding. It has also participated in international book fairs and entered into publishing contracts with publishers in Europe and North America. At the 2025 Amar Ekushey Book Fair, ‘Baatighar’ won the top award in the pavilion category for its aesthetic design and presentation. To celebrate its 21st year, ‘Baatighar’ plans to host large-scale events in Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Sylhet, turning its bookstores into festive spaces welcoming writers, artists, journalists, and readers from all walks of life. The celebrations will continue through December 2025, including regional book fairs and a variety of book-related events and publications.

A compelling group exhibition titled 'AESTHETE' was inaugurated at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD)'s La Galerie on Tuesday, featuring the works of 28 talented and renowned Bangladeshi artists. The inaugural ceremony of the exhibition was joined by eminent artist and Professor Emeritus of the Dhaka University Rafiqun Nabi as the chief guest. Art connoisseur Raquib Mohammad Fakhrul and renowned artist Ranjit Das attended the event as special guests. Curated as a reflection of Bangladesh’s evolving artistic landscape, 'AESTHETE' showcases nearly 33 paintings and sculptures that explore themes rooted in nature, folk traditions, socio-political realities, and contemporary life. The exhibition spans abstract and representational styles, inviting visitors into a space of visual poetry and personal narratives. ‘Invisible Stories’ captivates Dhaka audience at BSA ahead of France Tour The participating artists include Abdullah Al Bashir, Abdus Sattar Toufiq, Al-Akhir Sarker, Anjum Sulaiman, Anukul Chandra Mojumder, Ashfaque Bappy, Biplob Chakroborti, Bishwajit Goswami, K. Zaman Shimul, Kamal Uddin, Kamruzzoha, Kazi Sahid, Lutfa Mahmuda, Md Ziaur Rahman, Monjur Rashid, Muntasir Moin, Naeem Zaman, Nazia Ahmed, Pradyut Kumar Das, Ratnashwar Sutradhwar, Rezaur Rahman, Ruhul Amin Tarek, SM Saha Anisuzzaman Faroque, Sourav Chowdhury, Sumon Wahed, Syed Golam Dastagir, and Trivedi Gopal Chandra Gupu. Through this diverse presentation, 'AESTHETE' fosters a space for contemplation and dialogue—encouraging a shared journey of discovery between artists and viewers. The exhibition is open to the public from July 8 to 15 (Monday to Saturday), 3 to 9 pm.