Bringing an extinct musical tradition to big screen

Humayun Ahmed is perhaps the most celebrated contemporary Bangladeshi fiction writer. His immense contribution to the Bangladeshi literature over the last three decades has earned him international acclaim as well. The author has explored the film industry and TV as a director as well. His first film, “Aguner Parashmoni”, based on the Liberation War, received critical acclaim and won eight National Film Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The Daily Star (TDS) recently caught up with Ahmed to find out his plans for the upcoming Eid. Excerpts from the conversation:
TDS: How many plays are you planning to direct this Eid?
Ahmed: I cannot say for sure, but two plays -- “Noshto Bashor” and “Shada Bari” -- are complete. “Noshto Bashor” is a story of a single night, while “Shada Bari” conveys a message, which should encourage people to pay taxes.
TDS: Who are the cast and crew for the plays?
Ahmed: “Noshto Bashor” features Jayanto Chattopadhyay, Tomalika Karmakar, Naznin Naz and Masud Akhand. Asaduzzaman Noor, Faruk

National Mourning Day observed

On the occasion of National Mourning Day, Bangla Academy held a discussion at its seminar hall on August 15. Noted scholar and essayist Dr. Feroz Mahmud read out an essay, titled “Bangladesh-er Shadhinota Ghoshona”.
Shamsuzzaman Khan, Director General of Bangla Academy, delivered the welcome speech at the programme. Scholar ATM Nurur Rahman Khan; Mofidul Haque, publisher and trustee of Liberation War Museum; Muhammad Samad, poet and Professor at the Institute of Social Welfare and Research, University of Dhaka, were present as discussants. The first phase of the programme was presided over by National Professor Kabir Chowdhury.
The second phase featured reading out of stories on the Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and patriotism. Noted theatre personality Ramendu Majumdar; TV personality Pijush Bandyopadhyay; poet Kazi Rozi, writer Baby Moudud and Professor ANM Faruque took part in this session. Sheikh Hafizur Rahman, secretary of Bangabandhu Memorial Trust, presided over the programme. The programme was directed by Subhash Singh Roy.

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Quamrul Islam Rubaiyat, Thakurgaon
A painting competition for school students was held last Sunday morning to mark the National Mourning Day at Thakurgaon Zila Parishad auditorium. Thakurgaon Shishu Academy, with the assistance of district administration, organised the event.
About 100 children from different educational institutions took part in five groups at the competitions.
The topics of the competition were 'National Flag' for 'Ka' group; 'Rural Landscape' for 'Kha' group; 'National Memorial' for 'Ga' group; 'The Liberation War' for 'Gha' group and 'Bangabandhu and Bangladesh' for 'Umo' group. Judges selected fifteen children for awards.
Later Hamd and Naat competitions were also held at the venue for children, in two groups. Judges selected six children for awards at the competitions.
After the competition, a discussion was held at Thakurgaon Shilpakala Academy auditorium on the 35th death anniversary of Bangabandhu.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Thakurgaon Muhammad Shahiduzzaman presided over the meeting. Acting President of Thakurgaon District Awami League, Advocate Mokbul Babu and Superintendent of Police, BM Harun-ur Rashid, attended the discussion as special guests.
The speakers said that after 35 years of killing Bangabandhu and most of his family members, the nation can now mourn without stigma. They also hoped that six other condemned killers absconding abroad would be brought back to complete implementation of the court verdict.
After the discussion, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Muhammad Shahiduzzaman handed prizes among the winners of the competitions.
On the occasion, Eco Pathshala also arranged art and essay competitions at its school premises in the town.
Other educational institutions, including Thakurgaon Government Boys' High School and Thakurgaon Government Girls' High School also organised similar programmes to mark the day.

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Hossain Seraj, Magura
To mark the 35th death anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Magura Shishu Academy organised a painting and essay writing contest for children at the Sayed Ator Ali Public Library auditorium in Magura town on August 15.
Seventy seven participants took part in the painting competition on the theme 'Liberation War', while 54

Anika: A young dancer on the rise

Kathak, one of the eight forms of Indian classical dance, originated in North India. The term “kathak” is derived from the Sanskrit word “katha,” meaning story and “kathaka” means she who tells a story.
Bangladesh has quite a few accomplished Kathak dancers to boast of and young dancers such as Tahmina Anwar Anika are seemingly treading the right track to greatness.
The 18-year-old Anika began learning the ropes of dance at the age of three. Trained initially by Munmun Ahmed, she began taking lessons from gurus Pandit Krishan Mohan Misra and Pandit Belayet Hossain Khan. “I didn't know any other dance form when I was a kid. There was this annual function and I was not selected, as I wasn't learning dance officially. Shortly after that, I started training under my gurus.”
Anika gave her first performance at the age of five. She won several contests, including a national competition organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. These were hard won achievements. The young dancer says that she had to struggle a great deal to qualify for what she has achieved so far and looks forward to further accomplishments in future.
A tough challenge, she says is combining dance with academics. She would like to major in both science and dance. When asked if she has any plan on the dance front other than enhancing her knowledge in it, she says with a captivating smile “Yes, I definitely do.
“Although I don't want to be a teacher, I want to work with dance. I want to break the tradition of following the same old poses and postures taught by our teachers. I want to gain enough knowledge in dance first, and then work on it and generate awareness in the

Versatility personified: Azizul Hakim

If versatility could be personified, it would surely take the form of Azizul Hakim, who has left his imprint in all media -- starting from theatre, radio and moving on to television and eventually the silver screen.
However, with the rolling sands of time, he has stayed put in the world of television, proving his skills in countless TV plays and serials.
Many of his contemporaries have failed the test of time, while new blood has replaced them in the never-ending rotation of media talent. But Hakim has maintained a steady pace.
With his unique acting skills, (BD Media) Hakim paired up with contemporary actresses like Shomi Kaiser, Bipasha Hayat, Afsana Mimi as well as younger ones, such as Meem. On his success, the actor says that every individual endures ups and downs and artistes are no exception.
Hakim attributes his continued success in the media to his determination, hard work and luck. The humble actor does not forget to thank his wife, Zeenat Hakim,(BD Media) for being his muse throughout his career, while adding that he is content with what life has offered him.
Hakim has had a long association with theatre group Aranyak. He acted in popular plays of the troupe, such as “Ora Kodom Ali”, “Iblish”, “Guinea Pig”, “Agunmukha”, “Khela Khela”, “Pathor” and “Manush”.
His attributes his absence from the theatre to his busy schedule, and laments not being able to test his skills on the stage anymore. Theatre marked his beginning, and it is the stage that continues to draw him. Azizul Hakim however asserts that it is impossible to maintain complete integrity if one intends to work in both television and theatre. It is not reasonable, he adds, to seek some time off from TV and be involved with the theatre on a daily basis. Pointing this out as one of the main impediments of his career in theatre, Hakim expresses his aspiration to return to Aranyak productions in the future.
The versatile actor has tested his hands at direction as well. He has directed two TV plays in the UK, while his latest directorial work was in the serial “Shey Amaye Bhalobashey Na”. (BD Media) Although acting is his first priority, Hakim says directing TV plays is like an addiction, which explains his plan to direct another mega serial, the

A full calendar for actress Prova

Popular actress and TVC model Prova and her beau Rajib were engaged on April 16 this year. After the engagement, both the families are readying for a grand wedding, to be held later this year.
Expressing excitement over her approaching wedding, Prova said the date has been fixed for December 17. She is now keeping her fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly at the nuptials. (BD Media News)
As she counts the days on the calendar, Prova remains busy with TV plays for the coming Eid. She pointed out that as many as 20 plays are on the table for this joyous festival, and work on many of them is complete. Chayanika Chowdhury will direct eight of Prova's TV plays, including “Rupa”, “Papri Tomar Jonno”, “Jara Brishtite Bhijechilo”, “Opekkha”, “Dekha Holo Bhalobasha Bedonaye” and “Porosh pathor”. Work on Ripon Nobi's “Honeymoon Porbo” is complete as also Kaisar Ahmed's two plays, “Imrul Gazir Shopno” and “Malka Banur Monu Miah”. (BD Media News)
Prova said she is working in three so far untitled Ferdous Hasan productions. She has acted in Ashrafi Mithu's play. Shooting for Salahuddin Lavlu's “Service holder” is over, while another of his Eid plays will be shot during Ramadan. Prova is also set to work for an ETV in house production and an SA Haq Alik will be shot by the month's end. (BD Media News)
Prova is also currently working in many serials, including a Ferdous Hasan production “Khunshuti”, which is being aired on ntv. Banglavision is airing a Masud Shezan production “Patigonit”, featuring Prova. The talented actress said due to pressure from her studies, she can only select a few plays before she graduates.
Meanwhile, Prova is also preparing to play the lead role in the new Arun Chowdhury serial “Rumali”, which is an adaptation of a Humayun Ahmed novel of the same title. The role came to Prova, after Nova -- who was set to play Rumali -- fell ill. On her upcoming challenge, Prova said she read the novel a long time ago, without knowing that one day she will play the title role in a TV serial, and the opportunity comes as a thrill to her. (BD Media News)

Those were the days

I was born on May 8, 1947, in my maternal village of Belur Chok in Murshidabad. I have a few memories of Rajshahi PN Girls High School, as it was my first school and I did my matriculation from there.
My paternal aunt held my hand when I first entered a classroom, while my father and uncle were waiting for me in the office. I felt no fear, as my mother had prepared me for my school days. According to her, school was a place to make friends, play and have tasty snacks. She even bought me a new dress, fed me sweets and put tasty snacks in my schoolbag on the first day of school.
I was very restless when I was little, with more male friends than female ones. Playing hadudu, danguli and marbles with the guys and stealing flowers with girls from the colony where we lived, were my favourite pastimes. Guavas were also on our list of things to steal. With the stolen flowers, we all would make garlands and put them on the classroom table. Seeing our efforts, our teacher always had a smile.
I was not an expert flower thief, as I was caught several times trying to steal roses and guavas. People always told of me to my mother, who would always say that no matter how small or large the prize was, stealing would remain stealing. While she was busy forbidding me to steal, I was busy forgetting her advice and preparing for my next adventure.
Hadudu and Chhi Buri were the most popular sports which we played in the school grounds. But the teachers would always tell us to stop disturbing the ongoing classes. So instead we would come indoors to start a new round of carom.
I was a movie fanatic when I was young. Watching films with friends at the Kolpona cinema hall, now named Utshob, was our favourite pastime. We watched Pakistani movies and never missed the chance to watch a movie starring Uttam-Suchitra. My family forbade me to do all these, as I was only a student of class nine, but to their dismay I would always drop my books at house just after school break, and run to the Kolpona hall. My grandma would joke about it and tell me to become a guard at the movie hall so that I could both earn a living and enjoy movies at the same time.
The biggest crisis of my childhood was during exams. The list of things-not-to-do during the exam season included watching films, reading storybooks, listening to radio plays. But no restriction could stop me from turning down the volume to secretly listen to plays by Kolkata Radio.
Growing up in a joint family meant fun all around,

Ramadan reflections

A solo photography exhibition of German photographer Christel Becker-Rau ,titled “Ramadan Reflections” , is on at Goethe Institute, Dhanmondi. Rau was born in 1948 in Germany. She studied photography and visual communication in Cologne and Essen in Germany. At the exhibition, 58 images depict the cultural diversity of Ramadan in different countries of the Middle East such as Egypt , Jordan and Palestine. She is particularly adept in utilising natural light to create pleasing photographs of her subjects. Her images are very vivid and simple, but thought provoking.
Lt. Gen. Nooruddin Khan PSC, President of Institute of Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) was present as chief guest at the inauguration on August 12. Italian Catholic Father Mimmo Pietanza, chief in charge of the Xaverian Congregation in Bangladesh, Father Benjamin Gomez, Catholic Church Mymensingh were present as guests.
One of her photos depicts tiny boys selling lettuce for Iftar on a street market. The photo has been taken in Palestine.
Another picture portrays a busy life. Everybody has the same goal: to get home in time and enjoy breaking the fast with the family. The photo has been taken in Jerusalem. Light is the predominant aspect in the image.
One of her image has a different focus. The crescent of the new moon can be seen and the Islamic Scholar announces the beginning of Ramadan which was awaited with enthusiasm and impatience.
A Cairo night is very special for its citizens. During the Ramadan, the city is immersed in festivity. People gather here and there. Evening feasts, family celebrations and mutual visits after sunset make Ramadan nights an exhausting yet unique experience.
Some of her images depict people enjoying iftar in different streets of Jordan, the daily chaos in the streets, the traffic jams, shortly before the fast breaking, when everybody tries to get home as quickly as possible.
One of her images show at dawn the whole city gathers in overcrowded mosques and under the open sky in order to offer prayers together.
Another image shows family visitors in countryside areas in Cairo. In this photograph she has captured the unique beauty of nature.
The photographer also

Krapp’s Last Tape” and “Victoria Station” staged on the third day

Samuel Beckett's “Krapp's Last Tape” and Harold Pinter's “Victoria Station”, were staged on the third day (August 13) of the ongoing theatre festival by the Department of Theatre, Dhaka University. The weeklong festival, titled “Creative Youths' Theatre Expressions”, is being held at the Natmandal of DU. The festival features 15 plays directed by as many students of the final year.
Mohsina Akter directed “Krapp's Last Tape”, a one-act play that Beckett had written for Northern Irish actor Patrick Magee. The play projects the protagonist Krapp reminiscing on his life on his 69th birthday. The curtain rises on a late evening; as has become a custom, Krapp pulls out his old tape recorder on his birthday and reviews one of the earlier years by playing it. He started to record the previous years' events at the age of 39.
The play belongs to the genre 'minimalist monodrama'. Md. Mehedi Tanjeer played the protagonist with appropriate expressions and costume. Beckett has been extremely wary of over stressing the clownish elements in Krapp's physique, dress and behaviour.
The set designing was minimal, as it only featured a table in front of the stage, where Krapp was seated on a chair. Only one light was on the stage, just above where Krapp seated. The light never went off during the approximately half-an-hour long play. The rest of the stage remained in darkness. Bithika Yasmin and Swapna Rani did the set and light designing.
“Victoria Station” narrates a radio dialogue between a cab Controller and a Driver (number 274) who is stopped by the side of a dark park. The Controller attempts to instruct the Driver to pick up a client from Victoria Station, but the driver declines to move, suddenly obsessed with his current client, who is apparently

Netting in gains

Style is the name of the game in almost everything Bollywood super star Aamir Khan does. And it wasn't different when he organised a special screening of “Peepli Live”, the latest film produced by him, in Mumbai a few days ago.
The screening was followed by a dinner at Aamir's house where the highlight was the conversation in Bengali between Jaya and Aamir's wife Kiron Rao, says Jaya's 67-year-old invitee husband Amitabh Bachchan in his blog.
Amitabh says Kiron, “
speaks fluent Bengali, so Jaya and she had a ball--Aamir and me had the food.”
The veteran actor liked "Peepli Live", a spoof on farmers' suicides in drought-hit villages of India, saying the film “is so real, so nostalgic and so superb” and was “impressed” by its debutant director Anushka Rizvi.
A galaxy of Bollywood stars thronged the Bandra theatre, the venue of the screening, and the most talked about was the presence of another actor Khan--Salman--on the occasion.
Salman walked in with Sonakshi Sinha, his co-star in his latest Movie, “Dabangg”. What made Salman's presence special is the fact that Aamir had skipped a recent do the former had hosted for his sister Alivira Agnihotri.
Aamir himself went up to the entrance of the theatre to receive Salman.
Another notable presence was that of India's cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and his doctor-wife Anjali who are not usually seen in party circuit.
The tongues of Bollywood gossip-mongers were set wagging the moment actress Deepika Padukone stepped in for the screening along with young entrepreneur Siddharth Mallya, the latest most talked-about couple in Hindi film industry.
While Aamir, with his wife Kiron Rao, received the guests, the actor's ex-wife Reena Dutta also came to the screening of the film along with her parents.
Among other stars present were Rani Mukherjee, Juhi Chawla, Kangna Ranaut, Omkar Das Manikpuri, the lead character of "Peepli Live", Atul Kulkarni and director Raju Hirani.
Another Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar was effusive about the film. “Jus saw 'Peepli Live'……an outstanding and alive slice of cinema, ironic, humorous, reflective and genius. Makes you think and rethink,” says Johar in his blog.

Musical competition for children to begin

The first round of a musical competition for children (age 6 to 13 years), titled “Chhotoder Serakantha Pratijogita-2010” will begin at Ramgor Shilpakala Academy in Khagrachhari district from August 25.
Hill Star Musical Group, a leading cultural outfit of Khagrachhari, has organised the competition while UNDP-CHDF has financed the programme.
Kraneure Marma, president of Hill Star Musical Group, at a press briefing at its hill town office on Friday announced the schedule for the event.
Kraneure Marma said the initiative aims to select the best artistes from the grassroots level under eight upazilas in the district. As a part of the competition, the first round of the contest begins on August 25 from Ramgorh upazila Shilpakala Academy while August 27 has been fixed to select Manikchhari upazila contestants, August 29 ( Laxmichhari upazila), August 31 (Matiranga Upazila), September 2 ( Mohalchhari upazila) contestants, September 4 (Panchhari upazila), September 6 (Dighinala upazila) and September 8 (Sadar upazila).
A total of 80 contestants will be selected from all eight upazilas (the 10 best contestants will be chosen from each upazila) in the first round.

Slipping into roles In conversation with Mousumi Biswas

Glamorous TV actress Mousumi Biswas possesses all the elements to become a household name.
In a conversation with The Daily Star (TDS), the actress recently shared some of her experiences under the arc lights.
How are things going on the TV serial front?
Mousumi: At the moment, I am busy with several TV plays and serials. Some of these are ongoing and some, Eid specials. The notable ones are: “Madhobi Villa,” “Nandini,” “Projapoti Mon,” “Choita Pagol,” “Chandramogno” and “Chandrabindu.”
Which are your favourite characters in the TV serials?
Mousumi: To be frank, I like all the characters I play. I reflect deeply upon my character in a particular script before I finally agree to play the role. I have enjoyed my role in “Madhobi Villa.” In “Nandini” I played the role of a girl who endures social injustice. My character in “Choita Pagol” is of a widow, which, I think, will prove to be a highlight in my career. All these characters have unique appeal.
Have you worked in any play for the upcoming Eid?
Mousumi: Yes. I have worked on several single-episode TV plays like “Golper Rajkumar,” “Ekti Shokal,” “Ekjon Shilpi,” “Bornochora” and “Kalo Bhromor.” Shooting of all these plays have wrapped up, while the rest will be completed very soon.
Your last TV commercial received

Stallone and Co. hope to kickstart a fading genre with “The Expendables”

Where have Hollywood's real men gone?
Action heroes of the square-jawed, rock-ribbed variety fell out of fashion decades ago, but many of them are reuniting for “The Expendables,” being released soon. It's an old-fashioned shoot-and-blow-them-up starring Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, Bruce Willis and Mickey Rourke, most of whom haven't successfully detonated a box office in years. Other stars include Jet Li, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, Terry Crews and Jason Statham -- a younger group, relatively speaking, whose ages range from 37 to 47. (There's also a cameo from California governor/former action-movie king Arnold Schwarzenegger.)
Not long ago, “The Expendables” -- about a team of mercenaries dispatched to kill a Latin American dictator -- might have been dismissed as a last-ditch effort by a bunch of oldsters and B-listers. But timing is everything: After years of mushy “Twilight” sequels, a glut of animated family films and a shortage of straight-ahead action flicks, “The Expendables” is shaping up as a potential hit. The movie has become one of the most talked-about releases on the Web, according to

Brother Sun, Sister Moon”: A cinematic paean to nature

It's easy to be cynical. Easy to bisect and trisect a movie till the film experience is completely lost. There's bound to a lot of flak reserved for a film like “Brother Sun, Sister Moon”. For one, director Franco Zeffirelli, (known for his beautifully crafted “Romeo and Juliet”) gives simplistic treatment to an otherwise complex subject. For another, the storyline seems more a hagiography than an objective picture of the early life of preacher St Francis of Assisi.
Having said that, it is impossible to remain unmoved by the film, “Brother Sun, Sister Moon”. Here you have a portrait of a young man in love with nature -- the lush fields, the birds, flowers, trees, all set against the romantic musical score of Donovan, the famous Scottish singer and songwriter.
And there are many scenes which linger on in the memory: The young Francis or Francesco

Shahriar Nazim Joy in 25 Eid-special plays

Actor Shahriar Nazim Joy is busy shooting TV plays -- 25 of them to be exact -- for the upcoming Eid. One of them, “Kokkhopoth,” is being directed by Alvi Ahmed. Nusrat Imroz Tisha is Joy's co-artiste in the play. The actor recently talked about his projects in the pipeline. Excerpts:
Apparently you are working with Eshita after six years…
Joy: Yes. Six years back, we acted in the TV play “Pata Jhorey Brikkho Morey Na,” directed by Sohel Arman. Eshita and I are currently working on a single-episode play, “Titir O Shongkhochil,” written and directed by me. The play is part of the special programmes to be aired on Desh TV this Eid-ul-Fitr.
How many TV plays directed by you will go on air this Eid?
Joy: I have written and directed seven single-episode plays for the upcoming Eid. Of them, “Sharthopor” will be aired on BTV.
Are you contemplating directing drama serials?
Joy: (On a lighter note) Let me try my hand at some one-day matches (single-episode TV plays). If I succeed, I will go for test matches.

I had no intention of being an actor” -- Ferdous

Actor Ferdous is busy shooting for both Dhaliwood and Tollywood films. He is also producing a film “Ek Cup Cha.” Noim Imtiaz Neyamul is directing the film.
“The story is quite remarkable. I hope the audience will head towards movie theatres to watch the film,” said Ferdous.
Ferdous has recently acted in the film “Guerrilla”, directed by Nasiruddin Yousuff. “It's been a great opportunity for me to act in this film. The film is based on the Liberation War and has received financial assistance from the Government of Bangladesh. The film is an adaptation of a Syed Shamsul Haq story,” he said.
Asked about his experiences of acting in the film, the actor said, “It was truly an interesting experience. I've done more of a cameo in the film. I play a university teacher. Shooting was held in the northern parts of the country.”
About acting in Tollywood (Kolkata-based movie industry), Ferdous said, “So far I have acted in around 15 Tollywood films in the last two years.”
About Bangladeshi films, Ferdous pointed out that prior to working in “Guerrilla”, he acted in the film “Jolrong” directed by Shahnewaz Kakoli.
What are the noticeable differences between Dhaliwood and Tollywood films? “Distinctions are conspicuous. Commitment to work gives a boost to Tollywood films. A debate is on in our country right now, regarding whether Hindi films are to be screened or not. My view is that if we screen 10 Hindi films in Bangladesh, they have to screen 10 Bangladeshi films in India,” he responded.
About his upcoming film “Ek Cup Cha” that he is producing,

Theatre festival at Natmandal begins

A weeklong theatre festival, featuring works of globally renowned playwrights, has begun at Natmandal, Dhaka University (DU), on August 11. The Department of Theatre, DU has arranged the festival, showcasing plays directed by final year students. On the first day, a comedy -- “Constantinople Smith” -- and Harold Pinter's “Landscape” were staged.
Former Chief Justice Muhammad Habibur Rahman was the chief guest at the inaugural progra-mme. Vice Chancellor of DU, Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique formally inaugurated the festival. Among others, Professor Harun-ur-Rashid, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Professor Mizanur Rahman, Treasurer and Professor Sadrul Amin, Dean of Faculty of Arts, were present as special guests.
“Constantinople Smith” was written by American playwright Charles L Mee Junior. Mithun Chowdhury has directed the play, translated by Julhas Mian. The play features three characters -- Constantinople Smith, a young man who takes himself very seriously; Christina, who falls for Smith and Reality, who tries to explain the facts of relationship between Smith and Christina.
As the play progresses, conversations among the three characters continue. Reality tries to explain that the relationship between Smith and Christina is not real, rather an idealistic agreement. The couple ignore this observation and go about their way.
Nazmul Hasan, Ira Ahmed and Shakil Ahmed played the three characters. Imam Abdul Hakim and Sanjida Rahman jointly designed the stage and lighting.

Treading between realism and abstract

A six-day solo exhibition featuring works of Japanese artist Noriko Naito is on at Zainul Gallery, Faculty of Fine Arts (FFA), Dhaka University. The exhibition opened on Nagasaki day (August 9).
Twenty-five artworks, including watercolour, acrylic and mixed media, are on display at the exhibition. Five of these are done on kakejiku, a Japanese form of canvas that looks like scrolls of cloth.
Several of Naito's works in acrylic stand out. Heated silver foils produce the blistering beauty of gold in “The Universal Mercy.” Use of modelling paste along with Chinese and Japanese calligraphy further embellish the works. The calligraphy represents sayings of Buddha.
The Japanese way of painting boasts of exquisite perfection as per its lines, forms and textures. Naito's acrylics are no exception. Her style of symbolising universal humanism of Buddha on golden texture is truly mesmerising.
Though the artist formally belongs to the world of the realists, her watercolours would make an art connoisseur see abstract stories. The way she has portrayed the annihilations of two Japanese cities -- Hiroshima and Nagasaki -- on her canvases, reminds us of the unthinkable brutality during World War II. She has used charcoal for depicting black smokes as part of the atrocities. The artist has washed parts of that smoke (charcoal) to make the parts look grey. Depiction of lotuses in her works leads us to the eight peaceful paths of Buddha. On the whole, her art features fragmented memories of the past along with an urge to embrace peace.
The artist had a solo exhibition at Zainul Gallery back in August 2006. At that exhibition, 21 nature-themed paintings were on display. She used gold and silver plating, subuku (a Japanese

YWCA wins Dhum Ta Na Cova Junior Stars ‘08-’09

Ekushey TV organised a children's dance competition which ended recently at the auditorium of Bangladesh Shishu Academy. The programme was aired on Ekushey TV. Industries Minister Dilip Barua was present as chief guest, while Harunur Rashid, chairman of Globe Soft Drinks was present as special guest. Ferdoushi Sultana, senior vice-president of Prime Bank Ltd; Sayed Alamgir, executive director of ACI Consumer Products Ltd; Abdus Salam, chairman and CEO of Ekushey TV; Atiqul Haque Chowdhury, advisor of Ekushey TV; Kaniz Almas Khan, CEO of Persona and popular actress Moushumi were present as guests.
Contestants for Dhum Ta Na Cova Junior Stars 2008-2009 were selected from 21 schools, including Viquarunnisa Noon School & College, Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts, YWCA Girls School, Holy Cross School and College, Tridhara Nrityakala Kendra, Oxford International School, The Aga Khan School and Spondon Cultural Organisation. Actress Moushumi was present as the main critic at the programme. Dance director Imdadul Haque Khokon, actresses Notun and Anjana, dancer Aziz Reza were present as members of the jury board at the programme.
YWCA won the championship award at Dhum Ta Na Cova Junior Stars Competition, the first runner-up was Tridhara and the second runner-up was Bulbul Lalit Kala. Nitro Rang Academy won Best Team Management Award.

Tangail Swadesh Natyadal stages “Manush

Swadesh Natyadal, a theatre troupe of Tangail, recently staged its popular production “Manush” at the Bhashani Hall in Tangail town.
Written by noted theatre personality Mamunur Rashid, the play was directed by SM Samiul Haque Shamim, president of Swadesh Natyadal.
Artistes of Swadesh Natyadal, Bazlu, Kajal, Shamim, Uzzal, Russel, Ripon, Papan, Momin, Shahin and Rafiq performed in the play.
Cultural personality and politician of the area, Shamsur Rahman Khan Shajahan, inaugurated the play. Journalist Zafar Ahmed attended the event as chief guest.
A discussion was held prior to the staging of the play.
Dramatist Golam Ambia Nuri; Faruque Qureshi, president of Tangail Natya Forum; Alamgir Hossain, president of Saptasur Natya Ghosthi in Tangail and general secretary of Swadesh Natyadal Kazi Bazlur Rahman spoke at the discussion.

Emerged from Unknown

HANS, a students' association, recently organised an exhibition featuring artworks by autistic youngsters, in association with Surf Excel. Through this exhibition, HANS intended to generate awareness in autism among the masses. The exhibition, titled 'Emerged from Unknown II', was held at the Drik Gallery in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, according to a press release.
HANS, a non-profit organisation, has been working to create awareness in autism since 2005. This is the second time they have held this painting exhibition under the title 'Emerged from Unknown'.
Professor Abul Barq Alvi, Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University, inaugurated the exhibition. Professor Alvi highly appreciated the effort, suggested taking this event to a greater dimension, and assured help whenever needed.
Presence of people at the exhibition was noticeable. Renowned music composer and singer Naquib Khan was present at the opening of the exhibition. Several schools for children with special needs attended the inauguration. Parents of the young artists were moved to see the encouragement their children were receiving. They hoped that their children would no longer be alienated in the society.
Chairman of HANS, Meer Sohrabul Hossain, has long been backing the students with his immense support and enthusiasm.

World Indigenous Day 2010

Marking World Indigenous Day 2010, special programme “Moitrir Bandhon” will be aired on BTV today at 4:05 pm.
Professor Bishwajit Ghosh from the department of Bengali Language and Literature of Dhaka University and General Secretary of Bangladesh Adibashi Forum Sanjib Drong will take part in the discussion at the programme.
Kishor Claudius will render a song in Mandi (Garo) language while Chomchomi Dewan will perform a Chakma number at the programme. Papia Chakma will recite a poem of Mrittika Chakma while noted reciter Bhashwar Bandyopadhyay will recite the Bengali version of the poem. Chandra Tripura and Shohel Hajong took interview for the programme.
Produced by Syed Zaman, the programme is planned, compiled and anchored by Nemai Mandal.

Unstinting passion for theatre

Young theatre actor-director Anowarul Haque is a member of the theatre wing of cultural organisation Udichi. He stepped into the Bangladeshi theatre scene in 1997 via a three-month workshop organised by Udichi's theatre troupe. Anowar first performed in the Udichi play “Shubhro Timir” in 1998. The young talent made his debut as a director with Aikik Theatre's production “Drop Out” last year.
Recently Anowar talked to The Daily Star about his career and passion for theatre.
Anowar was born and brought up in Dhaka. “My family, especially my father, always inspires me and gives priority to my interest in the medium,” said Anowar.
Explaining his motivation to become a theatre activist, he said, “As a youngster I saw that cultural activists were highly respected. My reasoning was that if I wanted to do something for my country, it should be through cultural activities. Secondly, whenever I saw programmes at the Central Shaheed Minar premises, I dreamed of performing there.”
Anowar has earned plaudits for his laborious and talented performances in Udichi plays such as “Freedom of the City” (directed by Ashish Khandakar), “Bou Bashanti” and “Half Akhrai” (both directed by Azad Abul Kalam), and in Akhtaruzzaman Ilias' “Chilekothar Shepai” (directed by Kamaluddin Kabir).

Salvador Dali rarities go on display in Atlanta

An exhibition of late works by artist Salvador Dali opens this weekend in Atlanta, including several pieces not seen in the US for half a century.
The collection of 40 paintings-- plus films, sculptures and photographs--- focuses on the period from 1940 to 1983. Works have been brought in from countries around the world - including Canada, Scotland and Japan. The exhibition runs at Atlanta's High Museum of Art until 9 January.
The exhibition includes photos by American photographer Philippe Halsman showing the artist displaying what King describes as Dali's "wacky showman" side.
The exhibition also reflects two recurring influences on Dali's later work-- his return to the Catholic Church and nuclear physics.
One work that illustrates this theme is Santiago El Grande-- which shows a crucifixion scene and a horse rearing up above an atomic explosion.
Another is The Madonna of Port-Lligat-- showing the Madonna and Child breaking into particles. The painting is on loan from a museum in Japan and has not been seen in the US since 1951.
The exhibition also includes the 1960 documentary film Chaos and Creation-- an early example of video art, which includes pigs, popcorn and a motorbike.

Musical homage by BRSSS at Public Library

Bangladesh Rabindra Sangeet Shilpi Shongstha (BRSSS) observed the 69th death anniversary of Bishwa Kobi Rabindranath Tagore at Shawkat Osman auditorium of Central Public Library on August 6.
Artistes of BRSSS began the programme with a choral rendition of the National Anthem. A number of Tagore artistes paid their homage to the poet with solos.
Sajed Akbar, Saiful Alam Khan, Satya Chakraborti, Shahjahan Kamal, Bishnu Mondol, Makhon Hawladar, Azizur Rahman Tuhin, Mamun Zahid Khan, Shafiqur Rahman and Fahim Hossain Chowdhury rendered “Purano Janiya Cheyo Na,” “Anek Katha,” “Timir Obogunthoney,” “Tumi Mor Pao Nai,” “Amar Matha Noto Korey Dao,” “Chhaya Ghonaichhey,” “Khelar Sathi,” “Ogo Amar Chiro,” “Ashar Kotha Hotey Aaj” and “Dhay Jeno Mor Shokol Bhalobasha respectively.
Noted artistes Rezwana Chowdhury Bonna, Auditi Mohsin, Mita Haque, Papiya Sarwar, Lily Islam and others also presented Tagore numbers at the programme.
On the other hand, Salma Akbar, Kanok Khan, Fahmida Hossain, Chhaya Karmokar, Sharmin Ahmed Lipi, Roquaiya Hasina Neely, Farhat Hossain, Naima Ali, Shima Rahman and others sang “Moron

Kumar Bishwajit on DS Café

Kumar Bishwajit was the celebrity guest at last week's DS Café. The popular artiste just had time to take his seat in the nick of time before the calls started to come in from his fans. Excerpts:
Mahbubur Rahman Khan, B. Baria: How are you? Is “Torey Putuler Moto Korey Shajiye” your debut song? Any new songs in the offing? Why do you avoid Fobana?
Kumar Bishwajit: I am quite well. Thanks for calling. That song was not my debut track but rather my 'debut hit'. My first track was a chorus. “Torey Putuler Moto Korey Shajiye” was recorded in 1981. I plan to remake my previous songs for the new generation. Singing is my only profession. I avoid Fobana as it has not lived up to its expectation.
The Daily Star (TDS): How did you step into the world of music?
Kumar Bishwajit: That is an interesting story. My mother would sing, while a music teacher was assigned for my sister. I couldn't go in for music classes as I was just five or six years then. So while the teacher trained my sister, I closely observed them from a distance.

Remembering the great bard

After a break of nearly twenty-eight years, Chhayanaut the foremost cultural organisation in Bangladesh, staged a dance-drama by the Nobel Laureate on the occasion of the Poet's 69th death anniversary on 6th August. With the 150th birth anniversary of the Poet coming up in 2011, world-over Tagoreans are preparing to pay a befitting tribute to the far-sighted poet who, amongst other things, was the first to promote the practice of dance within the educated gentry of Bengal. The staging of 'Tasher Desh' with the support of Shadhona--A Center for Advancement of Southasian Dance and Music, is part of these preparations.
The show started with Dr. Sanjida Khatun, president of Chhayanaut, elaborating how everyone had put in their all out effort for this event and appreciated Farhana Ahmed's work for this dance drama. This was Farhana Ahmed's directorial debut, and she did a competent job in spite of the fact that most of the dancers were amateurs who are currently students of dance at Chhayanaut.

The tradition of staging Tagore’s plays in Bangladesh

With an intention to stage plays by Rabindranath Tagore, as a regular theatrical practice, a theatre troupe emerged in Bangladesh seven years ago. The troupe, Prangane Mor, made its debut through the play “Shyama Prem,” an adaptation of the Tagore dance-drama “Shyama.” The troupe is the brainchild of actor-directed Ananta Hira. Hira directed “Shyama Prem” as well. His fascination with everything Tagore inspired him to take the initiative.
On the eve of Tagore's death anniversary, Hira talked about the ongoing tradition of staging Tagore plays in Bangladesh.
In the past seven years Prangane Mor has worked tirelessly, and has staged five productions. Of these, three are based on Tagore's works -- “Shyama Prem,” “Swadeshi” and “Rakto Karobi.” Nuna Afroz directed the latter two. Hira performed in all three plays.

TV serial to encourage child development

TV serial “Rangdhanu” will be aired on ATN Bangla today. Written and directed by Humayun Ahmed and Abul Hayat respectively, the 13_episode serial will be aired every Wednesday at 4:20 pm.
The serial aims to inform parents on overall development of children and is a part of the project “Early Learning for Child Development” (ELCD), directed by Bangladesh Shishu Academy, under the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs.
Parents and other elders can play a major role in the development of children. The serial focuses on this vital aspect.

Piracy pillaging music industry

In Bangladesh, piracy is a rampant issue affecting intellectual property. Artistes, musician, composers -- music industry on the whole -- are being victimised by this unfair practice by vested groups. Artistes feel the need to figure out an effective way out of this situation.
Despite anti-piracy drive, this practice is still very much on in the country. A production requires significant investment of money, talent and time. The production house and the artistes naturally expect returns from their projects. But piracy smashes those hopes.
The major perpetrators are pirated CDs and free downloads on the Internet. Pirated copies of music have become so easily accessible that consumers don't feel encouraged to go for the genuine products. As a result investors and creative individuals face huge loss.
Piracy has become a threat to creativity as well as commerce in the world of intellectual properties in Bangladesh. A song that becomes hugely popular doesn't necessarily enjoy legitimate record sale. Artistes may get recognition but without any financial benefit. For the production houses, it's a lose-lose situation.

Cinema Against Communalism

South Asia is a region that often grapples with the problem of communal and ethnic divides. The issue has been dealt with in the cinema of the region and some leading directors, including Bangladesh's Tanvir Mokammel, who have made films on this, are coming together later this month in the western Indian city of Pune to share their experiences and views.
A symposium on 'Cinema Against Communalism' is being organised by the Pune Film Institute from August 12 to 14 bringing together veterans Govind Nihalani and MS Sathyu from India; Tanvir Mokammel and Prasanna Vithanage of Sri Lanka.
Nihalani's acclaimed TV serial, which was later converted into a feature film “Tamas”; Sathyu's “Garam Hawa”; Mokammel's feature film “Chitra Nadir Parey” (Quiet Flows the River Chitra) and documentaries “Swapnabhumi”, “Karna-phulir Kanna” and Vithan-age's “August Sun” will be screened on the occasion.
The different topics of the symposium are 'Community and Nation State: A Historical Overview'; 'Different Aspects of Communal Violence'; 'The Breaking of Silence and Recent Films' and 'Enduring Myths and Icons of Communalism'.

A flurry of roles Tête-à-tête with Farah Ruma

I am far removed from the characters I play on TV plays, but I love to see myself in different roles,” said the glamorous actress Farah Ruma.
The stunning actress is now busy shooting for several TV plays to be aired on Eid. Farah made her debut with the play “Shako”, directed by Anisul Haque. This was her launching pad as a TV actress. In a brief interview, she said that for the upcoming Eid she has worked on TV plays, “Helmet Apa”, “Salute”, “Daye”, “Kofiler Aaina” and a telefilm “Oporanhe Poth Chola” (directed by Bipul Raihan).

Classical Indian dance, foreign dancers

The first International Dance Festival is on in Delhi from August 2 to 4. The festival brings together the cream of foreign dance talents trained in Indian classical dance -- be it Odissi, Kathak, Bharatna-tyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniya-ttam, or Kathakali. The artistes come from countries as diverse as Malaysia, Indonesia, Germany, Russia, China, Mauritius and South Africa .
The festival kick started with an Odissi performance by Ramli Ibrahim and January Low who exemplify the perfect guru-shishya (master-disciple) relationship though at 55 plus Ramli is considerably older.
Ramli, is an internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer and artistic director of Sutra Dance Theatre, Malaysia's dance company. Ramli and January displayed tremendous agility and chemistry.