vol 4 Issue 12 | FRIDAY, July 15, 2016
Dhaka Tribune
6
Cook Your Own Way
12
True story Radicalism
20
The Bong Momma
CONTENTS
1
Volume 4 | Issue 12 | July 15, 2016 News
2 News 3 Meanwhile Editor Zafar Sobhan
Features 4 Tailored
Features Editor Sabrina Fatma Ahmad
Men’s fashion
5 DIY
Asst Features Editor Farina Noireet Weekend Tribune Team Saudia Afrin Moumita Ahmed N Anita Amreen Sakib Mridha Saqib Sarker Mahmood Sadi Shuprova Tasneem
All natural haircare
8 Tempt
6
Men’s grooming
Cook Your Own Way Kitchen chronicles
Advertisement Shahin Ahsan Production Masum Billah Circulation Masud Kabir Pavel Website dhakatribune.com/weekend facebook.com/WeekendTrib Email your letters to: weekend@dhakatribune.com
14 Initiative 15 Issue Child-rearing
16 Family Only
17 Book Review Potingbora
Regulars
Cartoons Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy Priyo
Colour Specialist Shekhar Mondal
Radicalism Social welfare
Contributors Fariha Afroz Minu Ahmed Aashni Bhansali Ahmed Muhammed Farzana Romine Sabiha Akond Rupa Noor-E-Shahrin
Graphics Md Mahbub Alam Alamgir Hossain
12 True story
9
18 Stay In 19 Go Out 20 The Bong Momma
Photo Story Sundarbans
On the cover
Editor’s note Dear readers, The July 1 terrorist attack has been hanging like a pall over our heads ever since it happens. People have reacted in fear, anger, and depression. Things were made worse when the identities of the perpetrators came to light, and we realised these weren’t faceless monsters from some faraway land; these were our friends and neighbours, people we may have grown up with. A lot of questions as to what made these young men commit such horrific acts. We’re printing a bold confession by a young man who almost went down that route. Many are choosing to focus on family, and ensure their kids don’t
end up making the wrong life choices. We’ve covered Project Pothchola, which aims to bring together the neglected elderly and underprivileged children in an endeavour that aims to help them both. We also have a musing piece on how children are spoiled, and the consequences. Our favourite columnist, the Bong Momma talks about how to talk to the littlest children about the birds and bees. De-stress with our grooming articles, or kick back with an interesting read. Or refresh your senses with our delightful photo feature of the Sunderban wild Wishing you peace and prosperity this week Sabrina Fatma Ahmad
Artwork by Veevinci & Mxnsterr This artwork is copywritten and cannot be used without the artists’ consent
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
2 News | This week Hidden fault could trigger cataclysmic megaquake in Asia
Clinton gets Sanders endorsement in show of party unity
D
emocrat Bernie Sanders endorsed former rival Hillary Clinton for
president in a display of party unity on Tuesday, describing her as the best candidate to fix the United States’ problems and beat Republican Donald Trump in the Nov 8 election. With Clinton nodding in agreement
a raucous crowd in Portsmouth, New
bitter campaign for the Democratic
Hampshire, that included plenty of
nomination and said she would take up
vocal Sanders supporters.
the fight to ease economic inequality,
A
massive fault could trigger a cataclysmic earthquake beneath
Bangladesh, parts of east India and Myanmar, new research suggests. The hidden fault, which has been buried under miles of river sediment, could release an earthquake of magnitude 8.2 to 9.0 in one of the most densely populated regions of the world, the study found. And because researchers discovered the system relatively recently, they have no estimates for when such a megaquake
could occur. “We don’t know if it’s tomorrow or if it’s not going to be for another 500
to make certain she will be the next
expand healthcare coverage for all
president of the United States,” the U.S.
Americans.
senator from Vermont said.
“This campaign is about the needs of the American people and addressing the very
Michael Steckler, a
The world at a glance
the LamontDoherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University in New York City. Photo: AFP
Four Bangladeshis convicted in Singapore
“I intend to do everything I can
make college more affordable and
years,” said study co-author geophysicist at
the best candidate to do that,” he told
beside him, Sanders put aside their
Weekend Tribune Desk
serious crises that we
His endorsement, five weeks after Clinton became the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, brought the most prominent holdout in
face, and there is no
the party’s liberal wing into her camp.
doubt in my mind
Sanders threw Clinton his support less
that, as we head
than two weeks before the Democratic
into November,
National Convention in Philadelphia,
Hillary Clinton
where she is to be formally nominated
is far and away
Photo: Reuters
Syria opposition warns of Aleppo starvation amid siege fears
A
Singapore court on Tuesday
providing or collecting money to
last week convicted four
fund terrorist acts in Bangladesh.
Bangladeshi workers for financing
Prosecutors said the men – who
H
undreds of thousands of civilians
based around stop-start talks in Geneva
in rebel-held areas of Aleppo risk
to create a peaceful transition after over
starvation, the head of Syria’s main
five years of civil war, he told AFP in an
opposition coalition said Tuesday,
interview.
terrorism and sentenced them to
pleaded guilty on May 31 – had
accusing Damascus of trying to besiege
jail terms varying between two and
contributed part of their salary to
the city into submission.
five years.
buy food, arms and weapons like
The four convicted Bangladeshis
Aleppo, once Syria’s economic
Assad’s regime is seeking to completely control Aleppo’s Castello Road – the rebels’ last lifeline into the
knives and pistols to launch attacks
powerhouse, has been ravaged and
northern city – and impose a blanket
are Rahman Mizanur, 31; Miah
in Bangladesh. The amounts ranged
divided in two by the conflict that
siege, he said.
Rubel, 26; Md Jabath Kysar Haje
from SG$60 (US$42) to SG$1,360
began in March 2011 and has killed
Norul Islam Sowdagar, 31; and Sohel
(US$1,000).
more than 280,000 people.
Hawlader Ismail Hawlader, 29, the Straits Times reported.
They were part of a group
Anas al-Abdeh, head of the Istanbul-
“We are quite worried that if the Castello route is totally cut off, more than 300,000 civilians will starve and
detained in April under the
based opposition National Coalition,
be under huge pressure,” he said at the
country’s Internal Security Act,
complained that the rebels’ backers in
coalition’s headquarters in Istanbul.
months in jail. Sohel was given 24
which allows for detention without
the West were letting them down and
months while Miah and Jabath each
trial in cases where public safety is
allies of President Bashar al-Assad were
are coming through this route. The
got 30 months.
threatened.
showing greater commitment.
regime is trying its best to besiege the
Rahman was sentenced to 60
Earlier, they were charged with
News: Dhaka Tribune
This lack of “political will” is endangering the shaky peace process
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
“Most of the humanitarian supplies
city.” Photo: AFP
. . . Meanwhile
3
Photo of the week
A whole seller almost hidden amongst his wares as he sits in his shop in Old Dhaka. Photos: Mahmud Hossain Opu
Bizarre Mars dune pattern looks like a message in morse code
say what?
A newly released NASA image of Mars shows natural patterns on the Red Planet that look a lot like Morse code. “These dunes are influenced by local topography,” the space agency said in a news release. “The shape and orientation of dunes can usually tell us about wind direction, but in this image, the dune-forms are very complex, so it’s difficult to know the wind direction.” As can be seen in the image, the pattern sits inside a large circular depression. NASA said the depression is likely an old and infilled impact crater, which limits the sand available for the wind to form dunes. The photo was snapped in February by the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera on NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. News and photo: Huffington Post
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
4 Tailored | Men’s fashion
Summer so fine
The go-to list for a beach wedding Mahmood Hossain
G
entlemen, let’s get the
summer weddings. In fact, those are
obvious statement out of
the more favourable fabrics of summer
the way. It’s too damn hot
for men’s fashion. If you’re able to give
to be wearing suits all-day,
into your vices everyday, wasting all
everyday. However, there are occasions
that hard-earned money away, you can
where the room for compromising is
afford to give your wardrobe the proper
a bit tight. There used to be a specific
fabrics for summer.
season for folks to be getting married,
If this sounds like a lot of work, take
but nowadays, it’s a year-round event.
heart. If there was ever a season for
The summer might not be the most
traditional wear, summer is it. Forget
ideal time to have a wedding but it
the sherwanis and the silks stuff, and
does happen. Here are some must-
opt for panjabis in breathable fabrics in
haves to get you ready for any summer
manly monochromes.
wedding.
Layered protection
The colours of the wind Okay, Pocahontas, it’s time for you to
It really doesn’t matter if the wedding
get in touch with nature. This is where
events happen to fall under daylight
you need spruce things up by bringing
or during the evening. What matters is
some life into your easy-breezy
how well you’re protected. No, we’re
wedding suit for the summer. Floral
not talking about arming yourself or
printed dress shirts bring a whole new
using the other form of protection.
aesthetic appeal for onlookers. It’s
Even though we encourage safe sex,
almost as if you’re introducing the
the protection we’re talking about is
crowd to the life of the party. Don’t go
sunblock or sunscreen.
out streaking just yet, there are a few
Get that SPF bottle out and apply the lotion anywhere your skin can be exposed to the sun. Although we
of things to keep in mind when you’re trying on something unorthodox. Since your suit is of a lighter shade,
need the sun to nourish a lot of our
you need proper and darker contrast in
world, you will be surprised how
your shirts. The patterns may be bold,
much damage the sun can do from
be it small or large, but they still need
overexposure. Stay safe, protect your
to compliment your overall look. Keep
skin and apply that lotion anytime you
the suit light and your crispy clean
head out.
patterned shirt a tad darker.
Suit supply
and inclined towards adding some
The obvious tone for weddings is a
visual detail to your look, throw on a
joyful one, with beautiful splashes of
subtly patterned Mujib coat or vest on
the colours of summer. When it comes
top of your panjabi. Tastefully done
to suits, you have to make yourself
floral menswear is finally making its
perfectly fine to not wear socks with
look as if dressing up was fun and
presence known in the city.
these styles of shoes, don’t get too
casual. Your suit might be tailored to
If you’re going the deshi-wear route,
Illustration: Priyo/Dhaka Tribune
pair of dressy sandal shoes. And this should go without saying,
comfortable and slip them off in front
but never ever wear flip-flops to a
perfection but more importantly, does
Nothing beats comfort
of folks. Unless of course, you have
wedding or anywhere else that calls
it look and feel light on your body?
In most weddings, wearing traditional
pristine and pedicured feet on a regular
for formal attire. Yes, that means
Oxfords or lace-ups with your suit is
basis – which is an absolute must if
beach weddings too. Unless the
bespoke suit should be the number one
a no-brainer. On the summer beach
you’ll be wearing panjabis, since the
invitees specifically state you can wear
thing on your checklist as you head
wedding scene, it’s all about comfort.
only sensible footwear pairing will be a
whatever you want, stay classy. n
into your wardrobe. Light coloured
Let your feet breathe and keep things
fabrics in light cotton, linen or even
light with a pair of slip-on loafers
seersucker is the perfect choice for
or espadrilles. And even though it’s
The fabric you choose for your
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
All natural haircare | DIY
5
I do, you do, we all do shampoo! Aashni Bhansali
A
re you strapped for cash?
worsens our natural sebum balance.
mess with
Or a DIY fan? Or maybe just
This is probably the reason why most of
your sebum
skeptical about slathering
us find our hair greasy again just after
levels. In fact,
your scalp with a mixture of
a day, or maybe even a few hours of
these shampoos are
washing.
completely effortless,
chemicals you know the bare minimum about? If you ask me, I believe every
Consequently, we’re left with the
herbal, natural, and hey,
little thing in our body isn’t just a
only choice of washing our hair daily
they don’t just maintain
coincidence, but rather meant to
and regularly. Insane right? So how
healthy hair, but also promote hair
assure a natural and healthy working
can we stop our scalp from undergoing
growth!
of our bodily processes. For instance,
such hazardous, excess oil build up?
our saliva is meant to break our food
Common sense would suggest: Go “No
who are just completely done with
down into smaller bits whilst our nasal
Poo”. Using absolutely no shampoo
shampoos full of SLS and parabens, and
hair is busy protecting us from smog.
for a certain period of time will surely
would love an alternative method of
3. Reetha (you can use its
Likewise, our hair follicles contain
rebalance the natural sebum levels on
washing your hair, here’s a short recipe.
powder form) because its a born
natural oils, called sebum, which
our scalp. Yes, it can. Here’s a big BUT;
It’s recognised as an ancient Asian
cleanser. And by that, I mean it
assures conditioning and maintenance
how can we ever go on without any
ayurvedic recipe that has worked on
cleanses anything unnatural on your
of our hair.
shampoo for months? That’s nuts!
beautifying hair for years.
scalp, be it dandruff, dirt, lice, cooties,
hair washing strips away these natural
Not ready to give up shampoo
All you need:
oils with harsh chemicals, leaving our
completely?
1. Amla (you can use its powder form)
at doing this and so it causes less
scalp dry, and in many cases, flaky. To
Let me suggest an alternative. Go DIY
because its protein and vitamin content
scalp irritation compared to the other
compensate for this, our hair follicles
before you decide to go “No Poo”.
is absolutely necessary to help the hair
chemical cleansers. This helps nourish
get an internal signal to produce an
There are several methods of making
grow and prevent hair loss. It does
the hair in keeping it strong and
increased amount of sebum in order
your own, safe and herbal shampoo,
this by using its antioxidant properties
healthy, bringing back all the lost shine
to maintain healthy hair. With regular
that doesn’t contain any of the
to strengthen the roots of your hair,
and lustre.
washing, this process of producing
harmful chemicals used in commercial
making it an absolute ‘must have’. It
more sebum continues till it upsets and
shampoos, and definitely doesn’t
also serves as a great moisturiser for
Recipe:
your hair and removes any dryness
• Combine the three ingredients
While nature is at its best, frequent
So if you’re one of those people
or untreatable dandruff you might be carrying on your scalp for years. You probably have noticed amla as one of the ingredients in your shampoos purchased over lifetime. Sadly, the SLS and parabens that are also held by these shampoos make your scalp prone
absolutely anything! The good thing about reetha is that it’s naturally good
together, one teaspoon each. • Add 500ml water to this mixture, stir well, and boil it. • When the water is reduced to half its level and you start seeing the foam, take it off boiling. • Let it cool, store it overnight and it
to dryness and dandruff. So why don’t
will be ready to use the next day.
you eliminate these no-no’s from your
You can store this shampoo for as
shampoo and use amla in its purest
long as a week and use it within that
form and see the difference?
period. • Use it like a normal shampoo, apply
2. Shikakai (you can use its powder
it to your hair, massage the hair for
form) because it ensures your hair
about five minutes and wash it off.
remains lustrous and healthy by
Photos: Bigstock
The author is a Indian-Belgian marketing grad turned blogger/Youtuber based in London. To know more, check out her YouTube channel @laughingananas and blog at www.laughingananas.com, and find her on Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook @laughingananas.
retaining its natural oils. Its efficient
As I always say, keep it natural!
in achieving this as it’s naturally very
Seriously, if you can promote healthy
low on its pH value, and makes sure
hair growth using just three effortless
it leaves your hair conditioned and
ingredients, causing absolutely no side
voluminous. Just like amla, shikakai
effects, hair loss or irritations, then
works towards protecting the scalp
why not? Your hair is important, keep
from dandruff and, keeping it healthy.
it happy! n
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
6 Cook your own way | Kitchen chronicles
The plot chickens Chicken treats Farzana Romine
Chicken piccata
B
(Serves 2 people)
oneless chicken
Ingredients:
Directions:
Now in the same pan in which you have
breast is a very
• 2 chicken breasts
Slice the chicken breasts into two thin
fried the chicken, add the butter and
versatile ingredient
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
slices. This will give you four slices
the rest of the garlic, onion and herbs.
and I always keep
• 2 tbsp of minced onion
from two chicken breasts. Sprinkle
Sauté for one minute. Add the flour.
some in my freezer. It doesn’t
• 6 slices of lemon
them on both sides with salt, pepper
Mix well and add the lemon mixture.
take long to cook and there are
• 1+1/2 tbsp sugar
and paprika.
It will thicken up. Add another cup of
so many things you can make
• 1/2 chicken bullion (stock cube)
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a
water, vinegar and capers. Make sure to
with them. I love using them
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
frying pan over medium high heat. Fry
scrape the brown bits off the pan with
in stir fried dishes, but when I
• 1 tbsp capers
the chickens until light golden brown
the liquid. This will give more flavour.
want to make something a little
• 1 tsp paprika
on both sides. Take it out of the pan
Let the sauce come to a bubble. Taste
more fancy, these two are my
• 1 tbsp butter
and set it aside.
and adjust the salt, pepper and sugar
favourites.
• 1 tsp flour
In another small pan add the lemons,
according to your taste. Put the chicken
• 2 tbsp olive oil
half of the garlic and sugar. Let it
back in the sauce. Cook for one minute.
• 1 tsp mixed herbs (thyme, oregano,
caramelise slightly. Add half cup water
Garnish with some fresh herbs. Serve
and the chicken bullion. Mix it well and
with pasta, potatoes or any vegetable
keep it warm.
you like.
basil, anything you like) • Salt and pepper to taste
Photos: Farzana Romine
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
7
Chicken Roulade (Serves 2 people) Ingredients: • 2 chicken breast • 1 small bunch spinach • Handful of sun dried tomatoes • 1/3 cup goat cheese or any semi soft cheese you like • 1 tsp dried mixed herbs • 1 tsp paprika • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 beaten egg • Breadcrumbs as needed Directions: To make the roulade you have to butterfly the chicken first. To prepare the butterfly chicken, first slice the breast piece carefully and open the flesh. Do not cut it all the way through. Now pound the chicken lightly to make it thinner. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika and herbs on both sides of the chicken. Be generous with the seasoning. Now place four or five spinach leaves, few slices of sun dried tomatoes and a little bit of cheese on the chicken. Start rolling from one side to fold the stuffing in. Make it into a tight roll. Now dip it in the egg and coat it with the bread crumb lightly. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and freeze it for one hour, it helps to hold the shape. Preheat your oven to 350F/175C. At the same time, heat two tablespoons of oil in a frying pan. Take the chicken out of the plastic wrap and brown it on all sides in the pan. Once brown, place the chicken in the oven and bake it for 20 to 25 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken breast. Cut the thickest part of the chicken a little. If it is still pink then bake for a few more minutes. Once done, let it rest for ten minutes. Slice it and serve with your favourite sides like mashed potato, boiled vegetable or salad. n
Tip: You can add anything in the stuffing. Pine nuts, mushroom, different kinds of cheese go well too.
Farzana Romine is a food lover and travel enthusiast whose mission is recreating restaurant quality dishes at home and she invites you to come along for the ride
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
8 Tempt | Men’s grroming
Why should girls have all the fun? Noor-E-Shahrin
F
acial, make-up, cosmetology, hair-care, parlour; when one
fresh after long days at work. Some men believe that in the
Adams said, “I want to look like Harry
always fascinated him, which is why he
Potter.” Well, they better not forget
came to the capital and took training
hears these terms, their brain
competitive world out there,
the lightning bolt on his forehead! A
courses. Previously, small salon shops
processes it only to display
appearance and fitness is of utmost
hairstylist there said that the most
all over the country only had a few
an image of a lady painting another
importance, as they speak a lot about
common request from his customers
services to offer; haircuts, shaves and
lady’s nails, a woman straightening
their personalities. On a completely
nowadays is the Cristiano Ronaldo
shoulder massages. But modern times
another woman’s hair, or a girl applying
different note, some customers even
haircut. Are men under the impression
have made that list much longer. Now,
some pink dust on another girl’s
admitted that they wanted to make
that having a Cristiano Ronaldo
almost every salon has men’s facials
face using a hairy stick. The world of
their wives happy. Well boys, y’all
hairstyle is going to develop some
on offer.
beautification seems to be excluding
better dress to impress for that special
football-superpower in them? That’s a
an entire section of human beings – the
lady!
whole different story.
men.
The major cause of this change
Male beauticians and cosmetologists
This Eid-Ul-Fitr, the renowned men’s parlours had special Eid makeovers, facial packages, piercings,
of men’s mentality is the massive
is a relatively new concept in our
exciting hairstyles and many more. In
gradual change in the behaviour of
improvement in people’s access
country. Previously, only women were
our opinion, the best men’s parlours
the male species in Dhaka has been
to information in Bangladesh. The
believed to be able to run the beauty-
are Men’s Planet Salon, Razors N
observed – while they are still in touch
internet is now our gateway to the rest
business. But this stereotype regarding
Scissors, Craze Gents Parlour, Hairobics
with their natural habitat of regal
of the world. So here’s what happens:
jobs for women only and men only is
Grooming Parlour and Persona Adams.
machismo, they have been spotted in
boys watch movies and a whole lot of
soon being demolished as more and
Go to the nearest one and take your
some men’s parlours and grooming
sports matches, become obsessed with
more men’s parlour businesses are
gang with you. Pair your new look
lounges. Men have finally realised that
some cool celebrities, movie stars and
being established all over the country.
with a fancy panjabi and a charming
the gymnasium isn’t the only place
players, run to a men’s parlour, show a
Persona Adams’ beautician and
attitude. Remember, looking good on
from where they come out feeling
close-up of the star and the beautician
hairstylist said, “I started practicing in
the outside is all about feeling good on
euphoric, sprightly and confident about
starts working his magic.
my father’s salon in our village when
the inside and vice versa. n
But not anymore. Recently, a
their interior and exterior.
A 10 year old boy at Persona
I was a child.” He says this field had
Boys nowadays just need a good enough excuse to run to a men’s parlour; Eid-Ul-Fitr is one of the many joyous occasions when the well-known men’s parlours are bustling with customers waiting to be attended to. And they have every right to pamper themselves. If girls can get manipedis, why can’t boys? If girls can get themselves a makeover and look like Aphrodites, why shouldn’t boys get one too and look like Apollos? If girls can use lipsticks, then.....okay, let’s just not go there. But what has brought about this change, you ask? We go straight to some customers of Persona Adams to find out what they love most about the services. Zohir Sarkar said, “The idea of looking presentable, without eliminating the “macho” factor, is very appealing.” Another customer, Niloy Ahmed, says that the facials and body massages make him feel relaxed and
Photo: Bigstock
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
Sundarbans | Photo Story
9
Wild things Photos: Syed Zakir Hossain This monsoon, the ample rainfall has brought new life to the greenery of Bangladesh and reinvigorated our local flora and fauna. This week, we take a trip to the magnificent Sundarbans to see how the rising tides and lush greens have affected its rich wildlife. However, the wild beauty of the Sundarbans also comes with a grim reminder – with the plans for Rampal power plant being officially approved, this may be the last time we see this incredible mangrove forest in all its glory.
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
10 Photo Story | Sundarbans
Eurasian collared dove
Monitor lizard
Black hooded oriole
Grey backed shrike
Asian paradise flycatcher
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
Spotted deer
11
Bengal tiger
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
12 True Story | Radicalism
I was (almost) a terrorist Photo: Bigstock
A true account young man’s slow descent into radicalism Ahmed Muhammed
I
was born in 1990’s Dhaka. As a
missionary school. It was deemed
to study at their schools. But the
child I had been cheerful and
prestigious to have a place in a school
‘renowned’ schools maintained that
energetic. I grew up in a time
like that, and my parents were happy
a child with bad grades should not
when very few families had cable
for me. This happiness was short-lived.
be allowed a chance to continue his
TV, only professionals used computer,
During my days at the new school, my
studies because he will only be a
no one knew what the internet was and
parents never saw me return home
liability to their reputation.
smartphones didn’t exist. I remember
crying or heard me complaining about
eagerly waiting for the sound of Asr
classes, and so were unaware that I
but yearning for friendship. I felt
azaan, and I would rush out of the
was bullied by my peers and seniors.
trapped within the four walls of my
house as soon as I could hear it and join
In addition, I was shocked by the
room as I struggled with depression
other kids in the playground. Unlike
immense amount of homework I was
and frustration. I was so ashamed that
today’s Dhaka, we used to have large
starting to get. To make things worse,
I wouldn’t go out to play, and avoided
fields in the neighbourhood where
the teachers started to insist that I
talking to anyone about my studies
we played cricket in the scorching
join their coaching centres. Soon, my
or how life was going in general. With
heat of summer, splashing in puddles
days were reduced to a rigid routine
much difficulty, I got into a school in
while chasing a football in the rain.
of classes at school, going to several
Old Dhaka but the ranking of the school
We spent chilly winter evenings
private tutors a day and returning home
and the socio-economic status of those
playing badminton. I studied at a small
with piles of homework.
who studied there was so low that it
kindergarten in Purana Paltan till junior school.
I started to change. I was no more
I was entering puberty, introverted
only added to my feelings of shame
the cheerful and sociable kid. Unable
and inferiority. I’d skip school, grew an
to cope up with the study pressure,
addiction to violent video games and
up. I started coming back home in
I started showing early signs of
engaged in frequent self-harming.
tears. Playground fights are common
depression and anxiety. The final blow
enough. Looking back now, however,
came when my class teacher, who
going through so they let me skip
I know that that was when I started to
could not motivate my parents to enrol
classes, but I had to attend sessions at
get bullied for my eccentricities. My
me at his private tuition, (because I was
a coaching centre. Even there, being
parents, who were rather friendly and
already attending three other private
the only boy among twenty students,
simple minded, never encouraged me
classes) was ‘dissatisfied’ with me and
someone who grew up in isolation
to hit anyone. Seeing that I was having
I ended up with grades so poor that the
and was too shy to talk to girls of his
hardships getting along with my peers,
school authorities refused to let me
age, I was teased mercilessly by my
they gave me books to read. We had
advance to the next grade.
classmates.
Things started to change as I grew
books. Lots of books. Soon I found
Disaster ensued. My parents
My parents understood what I was
There was a mosque nearby and I
more pleasure in the world of Aesop’s
realised the true nature of the so-called
often went there to pray. My home,
fables, Shukumar Ray and Thakurmar
‘Successful Schools’ and decided I
school, and coaching centre made me
Jhuli. It was vastly preferable to going
should study somewhere else. They
restless. But in there, I found a strange
out to play and returning with bruises.
searched far and wide, school after
tranquillity; I would sit there in silence
During middle school, we moved
school, pleading with authorities and
for as long as I could manage.
house, and I enrolled at a renowned
principal to allow me an opportunity
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
One day, a young man, probably
There was a mosque nearby and I often went there to pray Photo: Latif Hossain
13 in his mid 20’s approached me. I had seen him before, reciting Al-Quran and always carrying a side-bag. After some small talk he casually wanted to know where I lived, where I studied, what my parents did. He told me he’d noticed
We hardly acknowledge the fact that sometimes we are the ones who create the monsters
that I’d often come to the mosque and sit alone. I was initially suspicious. My parents had told me to avoid strangers. But he seemed very nice. Weeks passed. I often met him at the mosque and we conversed. On one particular day, one of my fellow classmates had humiliated me for not showing interest in talking to her. I
The recruiters look for broken people Photo: Latif Hossain
was upset even at the mosque, and the guy noticed I was crying. He asked me what had happened and I, in my weakness, poured my heart out to him. I told him about my miseries and he
him. When I told her the details of my
had fallen. I have known of one of my
listened. I told him how I hated the
encounter and the invitation she asked
seniors being rejected by someone
world, my teachers, my life, and how
to see the leaflet. I showed it to her. It
he liked and turning to radicalism.
much I wished to harm my bullies and
was a call for young Muslims who were
One of my childhood bullies, who
take revenge if I had any chance. The
invited to discuss what they could do
studied at an English medium school,
guy listened and commented that girls
to help establish the rule of almighty
was arrested under allegation of
are evil creatures and they lead men to
Allah in the world and free Muslims
being associated with Islamist terror
sinful deeds. He said that I was on the
from oppression. The event was being
organization. I still pray five times a
right path and that Allah would help
hosted by an organisation called Hizb
day. But I feel reluctant about going to
me. For the first time in ages I felt that
ut Tahrir Bangladesh.
mosque. Even if I do, I try not to stay
someone understood me. We became
That was back in 2004. A year
there for long and talk to anybody.
before Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen would
Although I do feel the urge to discuss
orchestrate a country-wide sequence
Islam and ethics sometime, I try my
day, on my way to school I ran into the
of bomb-blasts. Even then, my mother
best to avoid doing so with people
guy. He gave me a leaflet invitation
knew something was up with the guy
who I don’t know well.
to a gathering of young Muslims and
and this organisation which would
recommended that I should attend
later come out as a recruiting agency
my encounter with the recruiter. In
the event. My parents had always
for Islamist terrorist groups. She was
the recent years, Islamist militant
told me not to go to unknown places
anxious about my safety, but instead
organisations have grown more
with strangers and even though we’d
of panicking and shouting at me for
powerful than ever. I’d almost forgotten
become friends, I was a bit hesitant. I
talking to strangers, she sat with
about those few months until I read
told him that my mother would worry
me, talked to me about how I was
about the young men involved in the
about me and might not let me attend.
doing, how I was feeling. After a long
Holey Artisan attack. As I read the
He then said that in Islam, the cause of
conversation, my mother told me I
details the first thought that came
Allah comes first and one is allowed to
would not need to continue going to
to my mind is that I could have been
disobey one’s mother if she is against
Old Dhaka for the time being but that I
one of them. It comes naturally in our
the cause. I asked him if it wasn’t true
would have to avoid talking to the guy
thinking to condemn and hate the
that our Prophet (PBUH) had stated
at all costs. For several weeks I stayed
youth committing such crimes in cold
that the Jannat of children lies under
home, my studying routine was relaxed
blood. But we hardly acknowledge the
the feet of their mother. He then
and I spent my time reading Harry
fact that sometimes we are the ones
quoted something in Arabic, saying that
Potter books.
who create the monsters.
friends. Ramadan was approaching. One
it reinforced his statement. I was a bit puzzled but I told him I’ll come.
Harry Potter helped me deal
It’s 2016. A lot has changed since
If you really want to prevent more
with depression and isolation. Even
youth going astray, I have only one
though I was irregular at school and
thing to say. Don’t push anyone away.
whether it is allowed in Islam to
coaching centre, I eventually did
The terrorist recruiters look for broken
disobey one’s own mother for the cause
pass with flying colours. Though
people. People who are lonely and
of Allah. My mother, a very well-read
I never fully recovered from the
isolated. People who are depressed
and pious Muslim, was puzzled to
trauma and depression still haunts
and suicidal. People who have suffered
hear this question. “Why would you
me, I have done well at university. I
from social injustice and seek revenge.
say something like that?” she asked
am blessed with teachers who love
The more they can compartmentalise
me. In spite of my depression and
me and friends who care. Most of all,
us, divide us from each other, the easier
introversion, I had been raised to be
my parents always try to guide me
it is for them to strike and grow in
honest and open with my parents. I
in tough times. I am still a practising
number. Do not let anyone lose hope in
told her that a young man I met in the
Muslim and grateful to Almighty Allah
humanity. Love. Not oppressively but
mosque had told me this. She frowned
for saving me from a terrible fate. But
compassionately. Because only love can
and asked me more questions about
I have seen people around me who
win us this war. n
Back home, I asked my mother
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
14 Initiative | Social welfare you so much for bringing me the flowers dear, I always want fresh ones in my room.” In one room, a little boy sat and drew a picture of a house next to a river, while an elderly man with a white beard smiled indulgently and chatted to him about the colour scheme. In the room right next to it, another senior citizen was reading out from a book of poetry to two other children sat next to him, his hand waving about while he enunciated the words of Nazrul. In one of the rooms, a lady with long, silver hair and a warm smile had a group of four or five young ones sat in a circle around her. “Please don’t interrupt our session now,” said the former teacher. “I want to teach these beautiful little children my favourite
Fusing generations
Photos: Courtesy
rhymes.” Within minutes, the whole room was chanting, laughing and clapping along to the rhythm. Another lady with cropped hair and a faint smile stood in the corridor, encouraging the children to go in and
Project Pothchola brings together senior citizens and underprivileged children
join the fun. “Today you go to that Nani
Weekend Desk
said with a proud toss of her head.
and hear songs and rhymes. Next time, I will tell you about how my friends and I fought in the great liberation war,” she It was incredible to see how quickly
W
turn up at your door with flowers and
the people at the old home, especially
society where
place and doing our research into
goodwill, and nothing more. However,
since in other places, they might
sections of people
whether the elderly people who live
the more they got to talk to each other,
not have received an equally warm
are marginalised and
at Agargaon old home would actually
the more the uneasiness dissipated,
welcome due to their underprivileged
often neglected in their communities.
be interested in participating,” said
until there was nothing but happy
status.
None can tell this story better than the
Rukaiya Jahan Ria, chief executive,
chatter and quite smiles flooding the
“It was really nice to play these games
underprivileged children we see but
planning and development section,
once gloomy corridors of the old home.
and learn these rhymes,” said 13 year
constantly push to the background,
Project Pothchola.
e still live in a
but there is also another sizeable
these children managed to interact with “We started off with visiting the
By the end of it, there were a couple
old Meem. “We don’t normally get such
“A lot of the senior citizens here
of children in almost every room of
population who can often be ignored
are suffering from a void in their lives
the home. In one, you could hear an
and slowly forgotten – the elderly
and are very lonely, and almost all the
elderly man telling a group about all
not surprised at all. “It doesn’t matter
population. While in our culture it
children we work with are neglected
the historical curiosities at the Dhaka
if these old ladies don’t have their
is considered to be the norm for the
or forgotten by their families. There
National Museum, where he used to
own children with them now,” he says.
elderly to live with their children,
is so much love that is waiting to be
work before he retired. In another, a
“They still have the hearts of mothers,
circumstances can often lead to them
given but there is no one to receive it,
woman was heard exclaiming, “thank
and that is why they are kind.” n
being alone in the city and staying at
so we wanted to bring the young and
an old home instead. If they no longer
old together and bridge this gap,” she
have any family or friends, or have
added.
loved ones who live far away, their lives
Once the initial research phase was
can often be extremely lonely after
over, Pothchola started the main brunt
retirement.
of their project – in the last couple of
Last month Project Pothchola, which
weeks of Ramadan, 30 children from
was launched by Bandhu Foundation in
the project spent several days with
July, 2014 with a vision to improve the
45 senior citizens at the Agargaon Old
lives for underprivileged children of our
Home. The children started their visit
society, decided to begin work on their
with going door-to-door to each senior
latest pioneering and visionary project
citizen, offering them flowers and other
– to bring these children together with
hand-made gifts such as Eid cards.
elderly people who would welcome
There was the initial awkwardness
the company in their otherwise lonely
on the part of the children, and many
lives. The first steps towards this social
of the seniors also seemed a bit at loss
experiment was taken at the Agargaon
at what to do – quite understandable
Old Home.
when a bunch of fresh-faced youngsters
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
affection from strangers like this.” 15 year old Sayeed, however, was
Child-rearing | Issue
15
Do you have a spoiled kid? Sabiha Akond Rupa homes was a very normal thing for
impact on their minds, but sometimes
a kid. Our parents let us play in the
parents accidentally do the opposite
dirt and cleaned our faces and hands
and reward negative behaviour, such
in water, not antibacterial soaps. We
as through giving them attention
used to stay outside till sundown
when they whine and cry. Another big
with our neighbour’s children, and we
mistake that parents make today is
didn’t return home until our parents
when they refuse to hold their children
screamed for us to come inside. We
accountable when they do something
didn’t live under the supervision
wrong. It is very alarming as it sends
of nannies. But today, parents are
the message that the children will
afraid of letting their children play
never do something wrong, and they
outside – what if kidnappers come and
can blame others for their mistakes. It’s
abduct them? Parents today like their
very important to teach the children
children cooped up in the house all
to take responsibility for their wrong
day long and give them computers,
actions.
iPods, iPads, playstations, xboxes and any other devices that can make their children stay at home. People call it
as depression, anxiety, narcissism,
technological progress, but it’s really
failure to follow rules and more
the fear that strikes the parents and
serious negative behaviour, such as
the perception of security for their
aggression, loss of self-control and
children.
physical violence. To some extent, they
Due to these overprotective
“I
All the changed behaviour patterns of these children are manifesting
are ending up participating in more
attitudes, we are always seeing little
risky actions such as using alcohol
kids with cellphones in their hands.
and drugs - remember the incident of
More than 69% of children between
#ClassyKidsOfDhaka, where a teenager
want an airplane like
constantly trying to get attention from
11-14 years old and 31% of kids aged
collided with two rickshaws with his
hers. I want it right now!”
their parents, which is what they crave
8-10 own a cell phone, according to a
SUV and allegedly killed a four year old
A little boy around five
for.
survey by the Henry J. Kaiser Family
child? A recent photo that appeared
Foundation. Texting, instagramming,
on Facebook also shows a group of
yelled at his father. After
No one wants to raise a spoiled
a while, he threw himself down on the
kid. If you’re spoiling your children,
facebooking, playing games all day
kids from 8-10 years old who were
ground and flailed around the floor. His
you will know it. The behaviour of
long – the children are interacting
celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr holding bottles
embarrassed father stood by, silently
your children will clue you in. They
with others from behind the screens,
of alcoholic in their hands. When
trying to get him up. The boy then tried
will be rude to you and others, they
but when they are facing people in
parents hear that they have spoiled
to punch his fists at his father’s face. He
will whine, throw tantrums, they will
real life, they are feeling scared and
children, they either go into denial, or
kept screaming and began to wail, and
make unnecessary demand, they will
uncomfortable. When we were kids,
mete out harsh punishments.
this continued for like half an hour.
be self-centred and unreasonable.
our entertainment was our friends
Instead, they should look towards
“Spoiling doesn’t prepare them for
but now the only entertainment is the
creating an environment where
popular hospital in Dhanmondi. As
anything but heartache later in life.”
electronic devices. We didn’t have any
children can learn a system of values
other patients walked by them, they
says psychologist Ruth A. Peters, PhD,
cellphones or Internet in our childhood,
and other life skills. Parents should
whispered, “At this age, look at how he
author of the child discipline manual
so we had plenty of times for physical
emphasise on children’s mental health,
is behaving with his father!” Finally,
Laying Down the Law. She also agreed
activities.
especially from early age. They can
out of exhaustion his father told him
that a spoiled child typically grows into
with embarrassment, “Okay, let’s go to
a spoiled adult, who later faces many
their children as the centres of their
self-discipline and allow their children
a toy shop to buy an airplane for you.”
difficulties in maintaining jobs, family
world. Making them feel that the world
to play with other kids as a support
Almost instantly, the boy smiled and
relations and friendships. Almost
revolves around them teaches them
system that teaches them to make
got up from the floor.
every parent is facing similar problems
to not consider others’ needs and
bonds and look outside of themselves.
with their children. But why is this
desires. Parents are also failing to set
Parents need to be rolemodels for
happening?
limits from an early age and enforcing
their children, from whom they can
discipline and guidelines that can teach
learn about a good life and the values
when we were growing up in the 90’s.
the children respect, patience and
of society. Next time, if your children
If we can identify the differences
the value of life. Sometimes, parents
create tantrums in a public place,
between these two generations, we can
ignore all the positive behaviours of
think about bending the rules for the
understands what went wrong.
their children. Appreciating the good
betterment of their future. n
I was waiting for my doctor at a
A child’s behaviour says a lot about the influences on their upbringing. Parents these days want to be friends with their children by giving them anything they ask for, and sometimes they don’t pay any attention at home. As a result, the children feel that they can get anything they want or they are
Things are very different now than
In the 90’s, playing outside our
Today, parents are also treating
help their children to attain remarkable
work done by children have a positive
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
16 Family | only
Perks of being an only child Fariha Afroz
A
re you an only child? Do
their parent. We scold them, feed
have just remembered the little one is
your phone and computer are your
you constantly miss your
them, make sure they are clean at all
at home.
knowledge only and you have total
unborn siblings? Life with
times and keep them from getting
siblings is plenty fun but
hurt. Teenage stuff? We can’t do any
8. No one is spying on you – a
here are some reasons you should stop
of that. We have to help mother clean
sibling is nothing short of a spy camera.
9. No competition – no need to
feeling sorry for yourself and be glad
Ayesha up. You, the only child, get to
They see everything and report back
compete for your parent’s love- you
instead. As you continue reading this
be a teenager and not be turned into a
to your parents. Nothing you try to
have got it all. No matter what you
you will find yourself being grateful for
parent. Be happy!
hide is safe because you are under
do they have no other choice than to
their constant surveillance. Not having
accept you and your apology. How nice
siblings means you have only two
it must be.
being an only child.
1. No fighting for the remote – you want to watch Star World and
6. You can make your own decisions – often, having an elder sibling means having a third parent and
sets of eyes to dodge. Passwords to
freedom. NICE.
10. Bragging rights – you can brag
not HBO? Go ahead. You want to keep
one more person to take permission
watching what you are watching and
from. Unless siblings are on really (and
also get a snack? You don’t have to take
I mean REALLY) good terms, it is a
the remote with you to the kitchen.
given that Apu/ Bhaiya will intervene
This is something people with siblings
and try to convince our parents to
cannot even dream of. Feel lucky yet?
not let us go – sometimes just for fun.
a nightmare and the only
You should.
‘Ammu ami shob bujhi,’ they will say.
reason they don’t even
You, on the other hand have no such
think of having another
thing to worry about. What a life you
kid is because they have
2. Food you keep in the fridge doesn’t ‘magically’ disappear – this is probably the biggest advantage
are living!
all day about how you are such a delight that your parents did not feel the need to have another child. Of course, people can then say you are actually
had enough. But don’t let them dim your light- your
of not having a sibling. Yes, even
7. Peace – younger siblings are full
more than not having to fight for your
of energy with their minds set on
mother’s affection. Why you ask?
annoying us for the rest of our lives.
Because its food. You’re full and you
Having a quiet moment is never an
want to keep the rest in the fridge for
option. Anything we try to do, they
later? You can and that too with full
will interrupt. It is almost as if it is
on the other side, these
confidence that when you go searching
their life’s mission to keep us from
are reasons you just cannot
for it, it will be there waiting for you.
having some quality downtime. It
YAAS.
has become common for us to
3. Your clothes remain your clothes – people who have siblings
want to go home after a long day but stay out because we
parents are lucky to have you! While the grass always looks greener
ignore. Life without siblings does have its perks. Enjoy it and hope your parents don’t change their minds!n
of the same sex would do anything to not have their clothes taken without their permission. The sweater you stretched out perfectly will stay that way and not be overstretched by your elder sister. You guys are not even the same size. Why she still steals your clothes will always remain a mystery.
4. No one to set high expectations – having an elder sibling is a lot of pressure. Anything they accomplish, you have to do better. Anything they cannot, you have to accomplish to keep your parents happy. The only way to not live in the shadow of your elder sibling is to not have one at all. So, thank God because you should.
5. You don’t become a young parent – those of us with a younger sibling and especially one who is much younger are bound to become
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
Photo: Bigstock
Potingbora | Book Review
17
the story of the novel is revealed is like a trail of lost breadcrumbs that the readers are given only when it is absolutely starving for something. Once they are given, those crumbs turn into succulent, nourishing slices of a delicious pie. The whole book is divided into a total of 15 chapters. The opening one is titled, ‘Prakritik Porimondol’ (A theater of nature). In this chapter, the writer gave an elaborate illustration of the river Padma and its surroundings. The reader, at the beginning might find it a bit strange to read three pages of description of the river and about its surrounding nature, but the beginning of the second chapter-which is titled ‘Pande Poribarer Porimondol’ (the story of Pande family) explains those linesthe whole plot of the novel is set up at a village by the river Padma, where two families- ‘Pande’ and ‘Promanik’ (the whole story is centered on and around them) have resided. Just after second chapter, the writer gave a 12 page (third chapter which titled ‘Pathshalar Porimondol (The world of schools)) neutral description about the school life of a typical student. Interestingly, at fourth chapter, titled - ‘Ponchosokhir Porimondol’ (The story of five friends), he gave a vivid description about the lifestyles of five friends, one of which was later found to be the protagonist of the novel. In fact, this is the style that has been followed through the whole book.
A book based on one letter! Mahmood Sadi
The writer just don’t bring a mere character into the plot and try to bled the character in, he cemented them with a seemingly unnecessary digress (sometimes to long though) from the plot. But somehow he has done that with panache and has been able to carve a secret niche to captivate the reader to stick with the book. Through chapters, he has revealed the two protagonists of the novelProvakor and Purnima, and has drawn
writing it. From the preface to the very
by the research division of the Bangla
the necessary explanation, forming
last line, all the words (over 18,000)
Academy. The writer was the founder
and twists in the plot to create a
Y
inside the book start with the letter ‘P’
principal of the BIAM college of
happy ending and make that book a
(Bengali ‘Pa’ to be precise) and there
Rajshahi, and was two-times gold
successfully romantic yet bizarrely
ou don’t need to go through
hasn’t been a single case of exception
medal winner for the ‘best teacher of
unconventional novel. n
all the pages of a book. Just
of that found in the whole 93-page long
the year’ at the national level.
by skimming through the
book.
first five or six pages, you
Thanks to the magnificently rich
But don’t take this very book as a staid and subject-oriented one just
can get the idea why it took about 25
language (Bengali) for accommodating
meant for a particular group; it is rather
years for the writer to complete this
such a large number of meaningful
a book for all and the material based
particular volume.
words made out of a single letter and
upon which it is written can easily be
kudos to the writer for finding them
grasped by a commoner.
Yes, there is little doubt that the book Potingbora is exceptional and its writer Dijendranath Bannrjy has completed one “singular” task by
from an ocean of this language.
In writer’s own words, his book is
Potingbora indeed is a research
a social novel. It has been written in
publication and it has been published
an unconventional method. The way
The book costs
Tk90.00
Available at the Bangla Academy outlet
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
18 stay in Clues ACROSS 1 Half a dozen use chair or guest (7) 4 Vegas resident Dave held back by relative (7) 6 Grant title to none about odd ballet (7) 7 99 in game returning to warmer climes (7)
DOWN 1 He makes French wine for a penny (7) 2 Spotted holding five, or a couple more (5) 3 Don’t hurry so much to have duck (7) 5 Call top notch city on the Arabian Gulf (5)
Sudoku
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19)- Although your loyalties may be challenged at the start of the week, you may find that you do best when you stay true to yourself. Taurus (Apr 20-May20)- It might be
Use the numbers 1-9 to complete each of the 3x3 square grids such that each horizontal and vertical line also contains all of the digits from 1-9
best to adopt an impartial viewpoint rather than believe what you hear or take sides. That way you can steer clear of any trouble. Gemini (May 21-June 20)- Should you or shouldn’t you splurge? This could be your dilemma early on when you feel like indulging in a few experiences or small luxuries to boost your mood. Cancer (June 21-Jul22)-By the time Wednesday comes around, your focus may be on other things like financial matters and shopping. The coming weeks could encourage you to look into ways to boost your income and market a skill or talent that you may have neglected until now. Leo (Jul 23Aug 22)-With a focus on your spiritual sector, there may have been a lot going on recently behind the scenes. The weekend could bring a surprise your way and it looks like one that you’ll
Solved it? Email answers to weekend@dhakatribune.com and win one free month of the Dhaka Tribune.
thoroughly enjoy.
Last week’s solutions
Last week’s sudoku solutions
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)-Should you accept an invitation or not? This could be the dilemma you face at the start of the week, but it’s one that your friends will hopefully be able to help you with. Libra (Sep 23-Oct22)- This time around you might want to avoid being so diplomatic and go with what feels good. The coming few weeks look set to be very enjoyable, with you being a major player in the social scene. Scorpio (Oct23-Nov21)- Although you’re still in search of adventure, a part of you wishes for peace and quiet. Showcase
ACROSS 1 Rodent in pastry for buccaneer (6) 6 Fashion own goal in two thirds of revue (5) 7 Motorist loses five when less wet (5) 8 Diamond headwear found in Antarctic (6)
DOWN 2 Bill ready to sing well (7) 3 Rail age changed country (7) 4 The Spanish aren’t odd cricket side (6) 5 Hand GI new great leader (6)
your creative abilities, as doing so could net you some special opportunities. Sagittarius (Nov22-Dec 21)- Even small decisions could have an impact on key areas of your life. It is an opportunity to let go of resentment, fear, and other similar emotions that are keeping you from being the best you can be. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan19)- Although relationships continue to be important, you may be looking for something a little deeper as the week progresses. Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18)- You may be wondering whether to stick to your health routine or go wild and indulge. Monday could see you on the horns of a dilemma. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)- If you’ve indulged one too many times lately, a shift in focus to your health and wellness sector could see you making a few key decisions. Use this chance to think about your health goals and what you want to achieve.
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
horoscopes
Mini cryptics
Go out
19
Weekly Planner July 15 June 16
Education | Seminar Migrate Abroad When: 10am Where: The Olives, Plot 3, Road 126, Gulshan- 1, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh What: Fill out the form below to register for USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia migration seminar. This is a free seminar. Eligible clients are welcome to join the seminar. Register now: http://bit.ly/16jds
Expo | Dhaka Pop Culture Expo 2016
July 18
Education | English Speaking Club When 3pm Where Baridhara DOHS Convention Centre, Baridhara DOHS, Dhaka, Bangladesh What Dhaka Pop Culture Expo (Pop Expo) is a convention for fans to gather and celebrate the things they love – comic books, film, TV, anime and video games. Comic cons and pop expos are huge in the US, UK, Australia, and Japan. Like their past events, Pop Expo promises to be fun and huge! So don’t miss it! For your entertainment, there will be a cosplay competition (you can cosplay for fun if you don’t want to compete. Or just come in regular clothes and enjoy yourself); you can mingle and take photos with like-minded fans or play something. There will be renowned cosplay photographers, and they will be taking free photos and videos, which we’ll upload after the event. Stalls from some of the biggest comic book and pop culture names in Bangladesh will be present there. You can even browse and buy comic books, action figures, posters, T-shirts, and merchandise; and can also get artwork and caricatures drawn by fan artists. There will be stage performances by amazing cosplayers, dancers, and artists, party music and lights, so you and your friends can dance, plus music from comic book movies, TV shows, cartoons, and video games. Entry fee is Tk300. You can pay at the entry desk, get a stamp, and enter. Dress up as your favourite
characters, whether they’re from comic books, movies, TV shows, anime, or video games. Below is a list of the cash prizes: Best Male Cosplay - Crafting (Tk10,000) Best Female Cosplay - Crafting (Tk10,000) (Cosplays with superb workmanship on armour, wings, lights, or props) Best Male Cosplay - Costume (Tk7000) Best Female Cosplay - Costume (Tk7000) (An accurate cosplay that may or may not have crafting) Best Male Cosplay - Fabric (Tk5000) Best Female Cosplay - Fabric (Tk5000) (A good fabric costume) Like before, the organisers are the judges. They will allow cosplays from other comic cons as long as they have not already won a prize. No registration required for the cosplay competition. Just show up in costume and get a photo taken at the photoshoot banner (to the right of the stage) by their official photographer. Stage performances are not required, but you can go on stage just for fun (the stage will be free for cosplayers between 3-5pm and 7-9pm). There will be male and female changing rooms. For rules (including which props are allowed) check the Facebook profile: www.facebook.com/ dhakapopexpo/info
When 4pm Where Midas Center Building (9th Floor), House 5, Road 27 (old), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh What Are you struggling to find a place to practice your English speaking skills? Come to EMK Center, where the English Speaking Club makes speaking and learning English fun, with games, debates and group activities.
July 15
Spiritual | Introductory of Silva Method When 5pm Where AHLC, Bangladesh What Silva Mind Control Technology (Silva Method) is working on “The next stage in human evolution.” Sparked by Jose Silva in 1966 (Laredo, Texas, USA). The silva method has now become one of the most widely used and popular personal growth programmes on the planet. For the first time, Mahee Quazi introduced the method in Bangladesh in 1990.
July 17
Education | Session Spot Admission at University of Greenwich When 11am Where British Council, 5 Fuller Road, 1000 Dhaka, Bangladesh What Why University of Greenwich? Quality teaching Eighty-nine per cent of students who took part in the National Student Survey said that staff are good at explaining things, and also gave high ratings to the fact that their courses are intellectually stimulating and that lecturers are enthusiastic and make their subjects interesting. Award-winning teachers Our staff include a winner of the Times Higher Education Most Innovative Teacher Award and several National Teaching Fellows, a status which recognises exceptional teaching. n
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 20 1 6
20 The Bong Momma | Tales from a first-time mom
The birds, bees, and siblings Minu Ahmed
L
her bellaaay!”
ast time I wrote about hopes,
My reason for doing that is so that
dreams, growing up, and other assorted weirdness. It
Jellybean accepts the possibility of
got me thinking, how many
another child in the vicinity early on.
of you have actually had the ‘birds and
Young children tend to become very
bees’ talk with your kids? Do you even
jealous and possessive when new
go there? How do you explain? Do your
babies arrive - I would know, I was
kids even ask where they came from?
three when my sister was born and had
Where babies come from?
stopped apparently stopped eating out of jealousy. I used to climb into her crib
My own parents never really had ‘the talk’ with me. It’s like parents go
and lie there, seeking attention from
through this denial phase, where they
my parents. To curb (and hopefully prevent)
don’t want to admit that their kids are growing up, and on the way to
this odd (but obviously normal)
becoming adults. My only encounter
behaviour, I will make Jellybean take
with ‘the talk’ was when I had my
responsibility and ownership of the
first period and my mother wasn’t
new baby. I have seen that Jellybean
home when I called to tell her. She
likes to be treated as an equal, and
congratulated me and after a short
responds positively to things she is
pause, asked, “You know everything
responsible for. To test this, I asked her
right?” I grunted an annoyed, “Yes” and
once, “Mamma is going to have a baby,
hung up.
will you help me take care of it?” To my surprise (and great relief), she nodded
Yes, a twelve year old me was aware of the issues involved, but did not
and said that she will feed it milk
know ‘everything.’
through a bottle!
In our society it’s taboo to talk about
Out of curiosity, I asked her if she
‘these things’ openly, without upsetting
will walk the baby to sleep, like how
too many people. I’d like to say that you
she made us do when she was little.
should have ‘the talk’ with your kids.
She pondered for a while before
Schools here do not offer sex education
answering, “Nah, amar paaye betha
like abroad, so most of the time kids
hobe.” I couldn’t help but laugh out
find out stuff through TV, movies, and
loud at how she gave me a taste of my
their friends. If you are clear about stuff
own medicine. When I used to be too tired
like that with your kids, then there’s an
to walk her to sleep, I used to tell her
open channel for communication with
that my legs were
them, in case they have questions. And for crying out loud, there’s nothing personal to take, it’s all biological and
it really
that’s how it should be treated. Kids
amusing
these days are very smart and will
the stories
probably already be aware of it all even
that parents tell
before you approach them.
kids, about where they
The other day, Jellybean was asking
hurting so I
I find
came from, like the legendary
Speaking of sibling torture, this
me if I had to cut open my tummy and take out a baby. I figured that she must
or how they prayed to God and a baby
was born after a significant gap. He and
have come across this phenomenon in
landed on their doorstep. Although
his older brother would mortify the
one of those weird Youtube videos of
sometimes when I’m really angry at
youngest one, by telling him that he
games for children, where Elsa or Anna
Jellybean, I have threatened to return
was actually a robot and they had built
from Frozen are pregnant and need
her to the store I got her from! Haha!
him for fun! Nevertheless, he grew up as well and realised that his two elder
Pushing my surprise aside and without
little different looking from the rest of
brothers were only pulling his leg. But
going into the intricacies of a C-section,
us, and for many years I had lead her to
as an older sibling, I totally approve of
I explained that I might need to cut
believe that she as adopted, and we had
the creative genius!
my tummy open when the time comes
found her in the trash. She would cry
to have the baby. She accepted my
and wallow in self-pity until she finally
discussion, I have decided that when
explanation with a nod of approval and
grew up and realised that she did look
Jellybean has a sibling, I’m going to be
proceeded to ‘operate’ on my belly with
like our parents and I was just being an
pretty straightforward about it. “Yo’
her “hand” knife.
evil older sister. Ahh, good old days!
momma’s gonna have a baby, and it’s in
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 1 5, 201 6
things! n
the middle child among three brothers, and whose younger brother
When my sister was little, she was a
Kids really do say the darndest
colleague of mine, who is
stork which flies in with a baby,
to be operated on to have the baby.
couldn’t walk.
Photo: Bigstock
Coming back to our main topic of
Minu Ahmed is your not-so-average homemaker, normshirker and abomination of awesomeness, juggling a career in communication, motherhood and a fatter half. Questions? Send to thebongmomma@gmail. com