vol 4 Issue 13 | FRIDAY, July 22, 2016
Dhaka Tribune
5
Aydha Mehnaz
6
Origin Story
13
The Architect’s Apprentice
CONTENTS
1
Volume 4 | Issue 13 | July 22, 2016 News
2 News 3 Meanwhile
Features
Editor Zafar Sobhan
4 Event
Fashion in cotton
Features Editor Sabrina Fatma Ahmad
5 Interview Aydha Mehnaz
Asst Features Editor Farina Noireet Weekend Tribune Team Saudia Afrin Moumita Ahmed N Anita Amreen Sakib Mridha Saqib Sarker Mahmood Sadi Shuprova Tasneem
6 Origin Story Turkish influences in Bengal
7 Origin Story
6
Sufism and spirituality
Origin Story
Turkish influences in Bengal
Advertisement Shahin Ahsan Production Masum Billah Circulation Masud Kabir Pavel Website dhakatribune.com/weekend facebook.com/WeekendTrib Email your letters to: weekend@dhakatribune.com
12 Global issues 13 Book Review The Architect’s Apprentice
14 Perspective Why I took off the hijab
15 Perspective Taking up the veil
16 Show Review Sultan Suleiman
Cartoons Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy Priyo
Colour Specialist Shekhar Mondal
Humour Democracy
Contributors Promiti Prova Chowdhury Shehtaz Haque Reema Islam Hasan Mansoor Chatak Max Mystel Tasnia Rashid
Graphics Md Mahbub Alam Alamgir Hossain
8 Musings
17 Reflections TV favourites
20 Animal instincts Persian cats
9
Regulars
Photo Story Monsoon
18 Stay In 19 Go Out
Editor’s note Dear readers, While the world watches the developments in Turkey, this week, we explore the many ways in which Turkish history and culture are relevant to Bangladeshis today. We explore Turkish architecture and how it influenced us. We try to find out just what is so addicting about everyone’s favourite Turkish drama serial. We discuss the rising popularity of Islamic fashion, and review two perspectives about the hijab.
On the cover We talk Sufism, and spirituality and cats. We jump into the pages of fiction and travel back centuries to discover Istanbul at the peak of the Ottoman empire. If that’s too much Turkey for you, come right back to Dhaka for a discussion on cotton, dive into the rainy season with our lovely photostory on monsoon, and kick back with some light laughter with our new columnist Max Mystel. Stay safe! Sabrina Fatma Ahmad
Photo: Sciccoso Model: Naushin Farnaz
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
2 News | This week 84 killed in France in terrorist attack crime, but he was
Failed coup in Turkey to topple Erdogan government
not on the watch list
gunshots were heard at
of radicalised young
the presidential palace
men.
-- the Turkish National
Witnesses say the
Intelligence unit claimed
lorry swerved in an
the coup was over. But not
apparent attempt to
before 290 people were
hit more people.
killed and more than 1,400
Guns and a
people were injured.
grenade found
According to
inside the lorry were
various reports, the
t least 84 people have been
reported to be fakes.
coup happened as the
killed, including more than
President Francois Hollande, who
A
10 children, after a lorry slammed
is in Nice, said the attack was of “an
through a crowd celebrating Bastille
undeniable terrorist nature”.
Day in the southern French city of Nice in July 14. The driver, one Mohamed
After the attack, a state of
overthrow the incumbent president
November’s Paris attacks
They were stopped as people
‘soldier of Islam’ ploughed on for
from the so-called
2km (1.2 miles) on the Promenade des
Islamic State
Anglais at about 23:00 local time on
group, in which
last Thursday, before being shot dead
130 people
by police.
died, has been
with the police in the past for petty
of Turkey’s military tried to
Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government.
carried out by militants
Turin in Nice and had been in trouble
O
emergency, in place since
Lahouaiej Bouhlel, a self claimed
He reportedly lived on the Route de
government has made
n Friday last week, a portion
extended by three months. Photo: Reuters
flooded onto the streets
The world at a glance
in support of the
Weekend Tribune Desk
leader, who was democratically elected. Within a
enemies with the military over religion. The military in Turkey sees itself as the defender of the country’s secular traditions, and generals have been critical of Mr Erdogan. His AK Party, with roots in Islamism, has long had a strained relationship with the military and nationalists in a state that was founded on secularist principles after World War One.
few hours --
Photo: AP
during which
5 Ansarullah men indicted in blogger Oyasiqur murder case
A
Dhaka court has framed charges against five members
Gopalganj district. On March 30, 2015, travel agency
of outlawed Islamist militant
executive Oyasiqur, 27, was hacked
outfit Ansarullah Bangla Team in
to death by three assailants on
the secular blogger Md Oyasiqur
Dipika Mosque Lane of Begunbari,
Rahman Babu murder case.
close to Tejgaon Textile Engineering
Third Additional Metropolitan Session Judge SM Ziaur Rahman gave the order on Wednesday, last
University, when he was going to office in Motijheel. While fleeing, two of the killers
week. Earlier, police produced three
– Zikrullah, a student of Hefazat-
Ansarullah members before the
e-Islam’s Hathazari Madrasa in
court from the Dhaka jail while the
Chittagong, and Ariful, student of
other two remained absconding.
Mirpur Darul Uloom Madrasa – were
The court also fixed August 4 to
held by two transgendered persons
Indonesia’s most wanted Islamist militant killed
I
ndonesia’s most wanted Muslim
forces and was known for training
extremist has been killed in a firefight
militants from around the archipelago.
start the case formally through the
as locals remained reluctant to
with troops, authorities said Tuesday,
In 2014 he pledged allegiance to IS
witness hearing.
chase the killers.
ending a years-long hunt for the Islamic
and earlier this year was placed by
State (IS) group supporter.
the United States on a list of global
The arrested three are Zikrullah
The other member of the team,
alias Hasan, 19, from Raipura
Abu Taher, escaped. The duo was
upazila under Narsingdi district,
handed over to police who later
Indonesia Mujahideen, was shot
Md Ariful Islam alias Arif alias Erfan
recovered the machetes from the
dead on Monday on the mountainous
now that we have got the leader,”
alias Mushfique, 19, from Titas
crime scene.
Sulawesi island, where he had been
national police chief Tito Karnavian
hiding out in the jungle with a small
told reporters, as he confirmed the
band of followers.
militant’s death.
upazila under Comilla district, Md
The incident took place only a
Saiful Islam alias Mansur, 23, from
month after secular blogger and
Manoharganj upazila under Comilla.
former Buet teacher Avijit Roy
Santoso, the leader of the Eastern
His death is a major victory for
terrorists. “The group is obviously weakened
He said the country’s extremists
The wanted two are Zoned
and his wife Rafida Ahmed Bonya
authorities in the world’s most
had wanted to transform Sulawesi’s
Ahmed alias Zonayed alias Taher,
came under attack by extremists.
populous Muslim-majority country
Poso district, where Santoso and his
24, from Nabiganj upazila under
Avijit succumbed to his injuries at a
who had pursued the extremist for five
followers were based, into a “safe
Habiganj district, and Abdullah
hospital.
years, sending thousands of security
haven” and a regional power base.
alias Md Akram Hossain alias Baro Bhai, 28, from Kotalipara upazila of
News: Dhaka Tribune
forces to hunt for him. His group carried out a string of deadly attacks on domestic security
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
“With this group broken, their hope for a base there is gone,” he added. Photo: AP
. . . Meanwhile
3
Photo of the week
A balloon seller near the airport runway. Photos: Mahmud Hossain Opu
Burglary suspect allegedly used human brain to get high A
Pennsylvania man in jail on burglary charges is now accused of using a human brain to get high.
Joshua Long, 26, was charged Friday with abuse
of a corpse after his aunt found the brain underneath the front porch of a vacant trailer in Penn Township. The brain was in a display container the kind you
by Cumberlink.com. Police claim Long and his smoking buddy had given the brain the nickname of “Freddy.” Long allegedly told investigators he knew it was illegal to have the human brain, according to the Associated Press.
might see in a museum and stuffed into a Walmart bag.
Long is currently being held in Cumberland
The trailer is the former home of Robby Zoller
County Prison being in lieu of $100,000 bail for his
and Angela Micklo, two robbery suspects currently wanted by police. Micklo is Long’s aunt. Police said the brain was found last month. A
alleged role in a string of burglaries. Smoking “wet” marijuana is an emerging trend according to the DEA. Users soak joints in
family member subsequently contacted Long at
embalming fluid before drying them to get an added
Cumberland County Prison to find out why there was
hallucinogenic effect. These joints are extremely
a brain in a Walmart bag at the house.
carcinogenic and can cause long-term health
Long allegedly said that he and Zoller had used
say what?
problems, including brain damage.
the formaldehyde that preserved the brain to smoke “wet” marijuana, according to an affidavit obtained
News and photo: Huffington Post
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
4 Event | fashion in cotton
Cotton USA visits Bangladesh Sabiha Akond Rupa
A
delegation from Cotton
mentioned that he came along with his
USA was introduced
team to Bangladesh to share his sorrow
to Bangladesh textile
and grief on the tragedy that struck
and apparel industry
Bangladesh earlier this month.
through the US and Global Cotton
Five of the top leading textile groups
Outlook seminar where they met
and designers participated in the
with Bangladesh industry leaders
fashion show, where they introduced
at a fashion show and seminar that
100% US cotton and cotton made
took place at Le Meridien on July 18.
garments, highlighting Bangladesh’s
The delegation members were Keith
rich cotton heritage. Amber Group,
Lucas, president of Cotton Council
New Asia Group, Square fashion Ltd,
International (CCI) and leader of the
Beximco, and Almira showcased a
delegation; Marc Lewkowitz, CEO
selection of western clothing and
and president of Supima; and Bruce
traditional Bangladeshi outfits.
Atherley, Executive Director of Cotton Council International (CCI). The delegates at the seminar made
Cotton USA recognises the important role Bangladesh textile and apparel industry has been playing for
a presentation on world cotton supply,
the growth of Bangladesh, and they
US cotton growth, contamination, bale,
hosted a dinner honouring the success
and packaging that would help cotton
and achievements of the Bangladeshi
consumers, mills and importers to
industry. Tapan Chowdhury, the
better understand cotton while they
president of Bangladesh Textile Mills
make raw cotton sourcing decisions.
Association (BTMA) and M Siddiqur
In the beginning of the fashion
Rahman, the president of Bangladesh
show, the president of CCI, Keith Lucas
Garment Manufacturers & Exporters
addressed his concerns regarding the
Association (BGMEA), were the guests
recent events in Bangladesh. He also
of honour at the dinner. n
Photo: Syed Zakir Hossain
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
Aydha Mehnaz | Interview
5
A modest fashion blog Sabiha Akond Rupa
A
ydha Mehnaz is a gorgeous
ethnicity or country we live in. Modest
fashion blogger specialising
fashion simply provides options and
in ‘modest fashion’,
diversity in fashion for women, and
and uses her own blog
caters to a worlwide market worth
Minazification to demonstrate her
over $500 million. Renowned fashion
great eye to details and styles. This
brands like Uniqlo collaborating with
week, she spoke to Weekend Tribune
Hana Tajima is a great example of
about the growth of the latest modest
how mainstream fashion names are
fashion trends in Bangladesh and her
starting to recognise the potential of
experiences in the modest fashion
this market. But the biggest challenge
industry.
of creating any type of digital content is the number of hours it takes to
Tell us about your blog Minazification.
create it. It might seem easy on the
What inspired you to start it?
outside because all you can see are just
Minazification is a fashion site where I
photos with some typed out words on a
document my interests about fashion,
website, but there’s a lot that goes into
beauty and style, and also feature
creating that.
people I admire so that my followers can get to know more about their lives.
Tell us about your journey with Islamic
I always had a fascination towards
Fashion and Design Council (UAE) and
is - the people I started admiring years
style, ever since I was a child. My aunt
Aquila Style (Singapore).
ago when I first started out, now I can
used to dress me up in different attires
I used to be one of the fashion writers
call some of them my closest friends.
and take photos of me when digital
for Aquila Style for about a year in
cameras first came in. So I started
2015, and worked as the head of global
Who does your amazing blog
Minazification as an outlet where I
development for Islamic Fashion and
photography, and did you create the
document my own style interests, but
Design Council for a brief period of time
blog yourself?
now it’s like we have our own small
earlier this year. Working in both of
A lot of my friends and family help me
community where my internet family
these spaces has been an enlightening
out with taking the photos, especially
and I explore fashion and personal
experience. I’ve had the opportunity
the ones where I have to be in them.
styles, one post at a time.
to meet many inspiring people, who
My brother helped me out with the
I might not have met otherwise. I am
technical stuff of the blog, such as
Is it difficult to be a modest fashion
not affiliated with Islamic Fashion and
coding and designing. Everything else
blogger in Bangladesh?
Design Council anymore as I intend to
is created and curated by yours truly.
The concept of digital style influencer
focus more on developing my expertise
is very new for Bangladesh, but local
in this genre, and contributing to
Do you have any fashion rules when
are a great way to document your
brands and labels are slowly starting to
multiple spaces at the same time limits
putting an outfit together?
hobby and a variety of interests such
explore the unique opportunities they
your own time and space to think of
There has to be one idea or statement
as cooking, beauty, travel, lifestyle,
get when they market their products
anything creative.
piece that should be on focus, and
gaming etc.
what you say or do. As we live in the digital era, I think website and blogs
the rest of the styling should revolve
via an influencer, especially in targeting Who inspires your fashion?
around that to highlight it. Style and
What opportunities have presented
The women in my family have a great
comfort should go hand in hand when
themselves since you started
community, and we require authentic
taste in fashion, if I say so myself. In
pairing a look together.
Minazification?
voices to represent it.
fact, I think they have a better sense of
niche audiences. However, we need more time to develop this into a proper
I have had the opportunity to meet
style than I do! My mum and all of my
Where do you see your blog in five
many creative individuals ever since
How would you describe your own
aunts, - I grew up watching them all as
years?
I started Minazification. Having the
personal style?
my inspiration.
I would love to see my blog grow not
honour to be invited to fashion weeks
only as a fashion website, but as a
across the world and witness some of
Tell us about your experience at the
medium on it’s own that celebrates
the greatest creations by legendary
Muslim Fashion Festival at Jakarta,
women and motivates them to reach
modest fashion designers is something
Why modest fashion, and what is the
Indonesia.
their goals.
that I always feel lucky to be a part of.
biggest challenge in fashion blogging?
It was my second time in Jakarta this
Every influencer out there has their
year attending a fashion event. Last
What’s the biggest tip you have for
digitally and trying to perfect it is not
own genre that they like to blog about.
year I attended the Indonesia Fashion
anyone wanting to start a fashion blog
only what you can do to feed your
Conservative wear, or modest fashion
Week where I spoke on a panel about
or website?
passion, but can also serve as a résumé
as we like to call it, enables any women
how to connect the modest fashion
It’s very important to have an authentic
for finding work in the industry of your
to dress modestly without showing a
worldwide. I have been blessed to meet
voice when starting your own thing.
choice.
lot of skin, which is a universal idea
many creative individuals along my
The more authentic it is, the more
that is not bounded by any religion,
journey as an influencer. The best part
people will be able to resonate with
Laid-back yet edgy, easy to adapt and play around with.
Nowadays, documenting your hobby
For more on this fascinating blog, visit www.minazification.com n
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
6 Origin Story | Turkish influences in Bengal
From Istanbul to Dhaka From the Sufi saints of Bengal to the Sultanate, the Turks have had a long list of influences on our history. As Babur established the Mughal Empire with his obvious Turkish roots, he set into motion a merry exchange of cultures that makes the Turkish language, their cuisine and their culture all the more familiar to our senses. Reema Islam
T
estimony to an old allegiance of Bangladesh
established Islamic rule with an iron hand. He is
with the people of Turkey lies on one of
buried in Lakhnauti or the Gour region of West Bengal
the busiest roads of Dhaka. Kemal Ataturk
(bordering Bangladesh and Kolkata) and the Turks
road in Banani pays homage to the respect
thus remained in India, Bengal and our history.
we have had for the Turkish people and in more
Thankfully though, one of our most influential
recent times the roots certainly lay in Nazrul’s open
Turks was the least blood thirsty of them all and
admiration for Kamal Pasha and his liberal ways of
spread the word of peace, love and devotion to
seeing a new Turkey. The poem ‘Kamal Pasha’ was
mankind. The Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal is said
composed by Kazi Nazrul Islam towards the end
to have moved to Sylhet to spread Islam. Born in
of 1921, which emphasizes the influence Mostafa
1271 CE, in Konya, Turkey, ancient texts have often
Kamal Pasha’s leadership, who had overthrown the
mentioned his birth in Turkestan, or the land of the
feudal sultanate and turned Turkey into a secular and
Turks. Shah Jalal’s father was a poet, contemporary to
modern republic, had on the rebel poet. Nazrul was
Jalal al-din Rumi and Shah Jalal being a student of this
particularly impressed by the way Kamal Pasha had
great Sufi philosopher, chose to spread the concept
pulled out fundamentalism from the Turkish society
of Sufism, making his base in Eastern Bengal. The
while encouraging the women to give up their veils.
famous traveler Ibn Battuta met this docile saint and
He wondered why such reforms in Turkey could
noted how he lived in a cave with a goat that provided
not be replicated in India and Bengal. The Turks
him with milk, for cheese and yoghurt. Tall, slender
however lay claim to a much older association with
and fair skinned, Hazrat Shah Jalal was possibly our
our cultures and have been infiltrating the Indian
first Turk to be eventually naturalised a Bangladeshi!
subcontinent for as long ago as the 1st century BCE (before common era). The Shakas were a famous clan in Ancient India
Interestingly enough, the Turks were great at integrating into any new culture as they wanted to spread their claim over more land and its people. This
and have been generously mentioned in many
meant that they adopted the language of the locals,
writings including the Mahabharata. Many people
making additions to it by interjecting some of their
tend to forget that these were the Scythians who
own words, a practice that has lead to embellishment
settled in the Western parts of India, after driving
of the Hindustani spoken today. The reference to
out the last of the Greeks, from the middle of the
Hindustani is the conglomeration of languages Hindi-
2nd century BCE till 4th century CE. The Scythians
Urdu, with many other local influences. This language
are thought to have originated from Anatolia around
was mainly shaped during the rule of the Turko-
the 7th century BCE, a region that also includes a
Mongol Mughals and took over from vernacular
religious event or in food to make it more fragrant
large part of modern day Turkey. The Shakas were
Sanskrit and the Khariboli spoken in Delhi at the
was also an Ottoman ritual. It is possible that they
eventually defeated by the Gupta Dynasty, which also
time. The syntax of Turkish and Hindustani is similar
did the same in Persia, but it is hard to define whether
ruled a part of our modern day Bangladesh. Thus the
and towards the end of the Mughal rule in the 18th
we were more influenced by the Turks in these cases.
Turks have somehow been a part of the fabric of our
century, this took over as the standard court language
history for a longer period, a fact often overlooked.
from Persian. The Turks of course did not have much
A part of the poem written by Kazi Nazrul Islam is
of an influence on Bengali save for the remnants of
an insightful look at the impact the Turks had on the
an entry through Bakhtiar Khilji who rang in the
their presence in words like halwa, badam, maidan,
winds of change India was experiencing at a time
arrival of the Islamic Sultanate period of Bengal
tava, to name a few.
when revolution was around the corner:
The Turks eventually struck back and truly made
and a new era of rule. Defeating the Sena Dynasty
Many credit the Persians for culinary influences
in 1203-1204 CE, Khilji took over most of Western
like the samosa, pulao and even the zarda but the
Brother Kemal, the desperate son of a frenzied mother
Bengal, as the Eastern parts remained with the Deva
heavy Turkish-Persian influence is sidelined as most
Has gone furious; so the devils’ dens are full of hue and cry
dynasty. They were the last Hindu dynasty to rule
people tend to associate the Mughals more with the
Looking for self-protection everywhere;
over Bengal and eventually their exit is not clearly
Persians and their Turkish roots are often overlooked.
Kemal, what a wonder you’ve worked!
documented, as Balban, another Turk took over and
Minor practices like our use of rose water to purify a
Ho Ho Kemal, what a wonder you’ve worked! n
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
Sufism and spirituality | Origin story
7
Sufi mysticism Man is a mirror which, when polished, reflects God
Moumita Ahmed
of reality, meansing we arise from God
student relationships, formalised with
and return to God, and this truth can be
the finding of the orders, originating
experienced and known. Sufis search
from a different Sufi saint.
for their inner soul to communicate with the divine.
History and origins The first historical traces of Sufism go back to the time of Prophet
T
message of Sufism is to
serve humanity. Unity is a core principle of Islam,
connect with God. Although musical expression in Islam is often seen as debatable, Sufi musical performances have played an important role in
was a profound mystic,
creative literature and poetry, as well
and it’s said that he taught
as in spreading the message of Islam throughout the world.
techniques and inner truths of
Sufi practices including chanting,
this mysticism. Thus, almost all Sufi
singing, dancing, and meditation all of
schools represent Prophet Mohammad
which are intended to lead followers
(PBUH) and Hazrat Ali, as a door to
towards the experience of annihilation
spiritualism.
or Fanaa of the ego in God.
The earliest known Sufis were
he essential
Sufis often use music as a source to
Mohammad (PBUH). He
his son-in-law, Hazrat Ali the
Photos: Bigstock
Practices and teachings
Sufism teaches that the ideal state of
solitary mystics, who attracted
realisation is in subsistence, where a
followers on the strength of their
mystic is conscious of both this unity
personal piety. They taught their
and of his own individual identity. The
students the techniques they had
Sufis quest is to experience God within oneself, this is often called Marifah.
remember God and serve
which refers to the oneness of God or
used to become friends of God. Those
others. Like all forms of
the intimate relationship between God
students who attained spiritual
mysticism, it is above all, the search for
and creation at all levels. However, for
realisation in turn, taught others.
God and this search may be expressed
the Sufi, unity or tawheed (in Arabic)
By the ninth century, what had
in many different ways, taking various
is a fundamental mystical experience
originally been in formal teacher-
What is most essential to Sufis cannot be learned, but can only be reached through personal experience and inner transformation. n
forms. On the other hand, by reason of its esoteric aspects ; it introduces secret practices, initiation rites that vary depending on the masters who teach them. A Sufi’s way of life is to love and be of service to people, deserting the ego or false self and all illusion so that one can reach maturity and perfection, and finally reach God. Sufis have no country, and they do not live in any geographic pages. They exist throughout the Islamic world as both, Shia and Sunni. Sufis represent the spiritual or mystical dimension of Islam. Sufism is known as the way of the heart, the way of the pure. It is the path that takes the secret to the divined presence. The term Sufi appears to be derived from the Arabic word “suf” meaning “wool” in the sense of “cloak,” referring to the simple cloaks the original Sufis wore. Some initiates are given a specially designed, coloured wool vest which is symbolic of the woolen robes of poverty worn by ancient dervishes, and signifies the loving commitment of the dervish to
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
8 Musing | Humour
A seriously laidback column Max Mystel
I
t seems that lately there is a lot
after death and a smiling tree? Holy
‘Hey, is this real, or is this just a ride?’
of hate regarding Muslims, in
cow! That’s extremist ideology right
And other people have remembered,
general. And with the rise of
there; must be a terrorist, even worse,
and they come back to us and say:
militant attacks it really doesn’t
a well-read terrorist. All I am saying
‘Hey, don’t worry; don’t be afraid, ever,
help Islam’s image on a global forum.
is educate yourselves regarding not
because this is just a ride.’ And we …
However, on a brighter note I would
just Islam but every religion possible.
kill those people. ‘Shut him up! I’ve got
like to forward my utmost gratitude to
What this does in retrospect is prevent
a lot invested in this ride, shut him up!
the new British Prime Minister Theresa
us from falling prey to any sort of
May. She read out a verse from the
propaganda, not to mention help us
Qur’an and sent a message to Muslims
create a more educated, unbiased and
in Britain and around the world that
aware society.
Islam is a religion of peace and that she
feeding and clothing and educating the poor of the world, which it would pay for many times over, not one human being excluded, and we could explore space, together, both inner and outer, forever, in peace.”
Lastly, I would like to leave you
will not stand for atrocities caused in
with a quote from one of the funniest
Without further ado let’s move
Islam’s name. That being said, there
man to have ever lived, the late Bill
on to the ‘Laidback’ part of this
are plenty of haters out there that
Hicks. A comedian, a poet and a social
column, basically jokes:
love to tarnish our religion, calling it
critic, Bill says: “The world is like
• Marriage is not a word, it’s a
violent and extreme, no matter what.
a ride in an amusement park, and
sentence. Let’s face it guys, the
To those, this next bit illustrates your
when you choose to go
uninformed point of view.
on it you think it’s
“Recently, a quote from a book lover showed up on my feed. It said: “Each time you open a book, a tree smiles, knowing there is life after death.” Life
anagram for mother-in-law is “Woman Hitler.”
real because
Look at my furrows of worry, look at
that’s
my big bank account, and my family.
brands as a teenager. Told my
This has to be real.’ It’s just a ride. But
mom to get me a T-shirt from their
powerful
we always kill the good guys who try
outlet. When she said she would,
our minds are.
and tell us that, you ever notice that?
I was happy that my mother was
And let the demons run amok … But
progressive. She gets me the t-shirt
it doesn’t matter, because it’s just a
and I realise when it came to the
ride. And we can change it any time we
size, she thought 10 years ahead.
want. It’s only a choice. No effort, no
Not only was she progressive, she
how
The ride goes up and down, around and around, it has thrills and chills, and it’s very brightly coloured, and
• Adidas was one of my favourite
it’s very loud, and it’s fun for a while.
work, no job, no savings of money. Just
Many people have been on the ride a
a simple choice, right now, between
long time, and they begin to wonder,
fear and love. The eyes of fear want you
friend. However, being Bangladeshi
to put bigger locks on your doors, buy
I was smart about it and never got
guns, close yourself off. The eyes of
caught. My friend on the other
love instead see all of us as one. Here’s what we can do to change the world, right now, to a better ride. Take all that money we spend on weapons and defences each year and instead spend it
was a visionary. • I used to shoplift as a child with my
hand…was Indian. • Normally I do magic and I do comedy, so if I say something that’s not funny…it’s MAGIC! • When you’re a photographer, everyone greets you with: “Bhai ekta chobi tule den na please!” • People say I am addicted to desserts. I am not really; I only have them after meals. I have about 25 meals a day. n
Max Mystel is a standup comedian, magician, a terrible writer and a professional bum Photos: Bigstock
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
Monsoon | Photo Story
9
Tranquil rain Photos: Syed Zakir Hossain
The English word Monsoon came from the Bengali/Hindi word ‘mousum”, which came from the Arabic word mawsim (season). It was first used in the English language in British India (now India, Bangladesh and Pakistan) and neighbouring countries to refer to the big seasonal winds blowing from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. Because of the climate change from fossil fuel burning the average temperature of the earth is on the rise. Even though the seasonal winds do not blow like before these pictures capture the aura we often associate with monsoon in Bangladesh – freshness and tranquility.
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
10 Photo Story | Monsoon
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
11
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
12 Global issues| Democracy
Divided democracies Do we really have democracies that represent us?
Shuprova Tasneem
O
(literally) with the solution that
are not being heard. In democracies
military coup should be a
Discrimination in democracies
democracy and open markets are the
that depend on majority rule only,
positive thing – a triumph
Whether in the military, government,
panacea to all political ills, but some of
following the first-past-the-post
of democracy in a country
judiciary or educational institutions – it
the biggest democracies in the world
system of voting rather than opting for
that has in the past been thrown into
seems like anyone who dared stand
now govern a large portion of their
proportional representation, there is at
turmoil by similar military coups. On
against the democratically elected
population without truly representing
its very onset a risk of minorities being
July 16, Galip Dalay, senior associate
leader of Turkey will now have to face
them. We have time and again seen
underrepresented in the government.
fellow on Turkey and Kurdish Affairs at
the consequences of their opposition.
that majority rule does not mean fair
Couple with that the increasing
Al Jazeera Center for Studies, wrote “it
This increasingly authoritarian stance
rule, and governments in successive
barriers to freedom of information and
was a dark night but it brought a bright
by Turkey has raised concerns about
terms can often turn to abusing their
ownership of mainstream media by the
new morning for democracy in Turkey,”
the strength of its democracy, with
political power during their time.
ruling elite, and you begin to grasp the
and compared the attempted coup to a
US Secretary of State Kerry warning
There are also many examples of such
extent of the sickness at the heart of so
terrorist operation. At least 290 people
that Turkey may be going against
democratic processes leading to even
many nations today.
died on the night, and around 1,400
NATO’s “requirement with respect
greater divisions within society. This is
were wounded.
to democracy” if it continues to fail
demonstrated perfectly in the much-
is one terrible yet effective way to
to uphold the rule of law after the
discussed Brexit decision in the UK,
ensure that democracies are not fully
attempted coup.
where 52% of the population voted to
functional – the less information there
leave the European Union, leaving 48%
is out there, the more the government
n paper, Turkey’s failed
However, the steps that Turkish president Erdogan has taken to “cleanse the cancer” of those who
This statement is ironic coming from
Regulation and restriction of media
plotted against him are far from
a diplomat from the United States,
of the population feeling angry, ignored
can get away with. But even with
what we can call democratic. Almost
a country where its democracy still
and disenfranchised.
relatively free media and free and
immediately after regaining control,
fails to represent minorities who are
the Turkish government removed or
continuously disenfranchised and
Voices that need to be heard
fully representative without proper
detained 70 admirals and generals,
discriminated against. Police brutality
Yet Brexit was democracy in its purest
opposition parties whose role is not
3,000 soldiers and 2,700 members of
and killing of African-Americans is
form – where every single person
to vilify the people in power, but to
the Turkish judiciary. 8,000 police
commonplace, with the violence now
eligible to vote had a direct voice in
come up with effective alternatives
officers, 30 governors and 52 high
escalating into innocent police officers
national policymaking. However, one
to government policy and shed light
ranking civil servants have also
losing their lives in a recent spate of
has to only dig a little deeper to realise
on any abuses of power. And because
been sacked, and the Turkish higher
revenge killings. Even in the world’s
all the other factors that came into play
there will always be voices that will be
education council recently imposed
largest democracy, Indian forces have
– a nationalist and often-xenophobic
silenced and fall through the cracks of
a travel ban on academics, a day
shot dead 45 people in Kashmir in a
media, deeply divided political parties,
government, law and media, we need
after demanding the resignation of
recent outbreak of violence, and are
simmering resentment within ignored
grassroots movements and civil society
1,577 deans at universities across the
continuing to use “non-lethal” pellets
classes and communities and much
organisations that speak against the
country. 24 TV and radio channels
on protesters, leaving hundreds at the
more. What ultimately matters is
ills the ruling elite would rather ignore.
have had their licenses revoked. There
risk of becoming blind.
the rhetoric that prevails, and the
In a world where nationalist and other
voices that get drowned out, and
extreme ideologies are constantly
is even talk of introducing the death
It is time to admit that democracy
fair elections, a democracy cannot be
penalty for people who have committed
as we know it, has a real problem.
in many functional democracies of
being used to justify undemocratic and
‘traitorous’ acts against the state.
Post 9/11, we have been bombarded
today, there are too many voices that
even violent actions, academics and educational institutions can also play a huge role in creating a more progressive counter-rhetoric. In every democracy, there is the danger of the loudest voice drowning out the others, and of ruling powers using their achievements to create a nationalist propaganda that cements their increasingly authoritarian rule. Turkish president Erdogan had at one time used his economic achievements to boost himself to a position of power, and is now using the threat against his government to destroy his opposition. Yet without proper opposition, freedom of information, debate and dissent, and without representation of people from all walks of life, this kind of democracy will be a democracy by name only – not just in Turkey, but in countries across the world. n
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
The Architect’s Apprentice | book review
13
Travelling with the Turks Sabrina Fatma Ahmad
T
he magical city of Istanbul, once a tourist hotspot, always a subject of fascination for everyone
from architects and historians to coffee connoisseurs, has been on our minds a lot lately, for good reasons and bad. On one hand, it’s hard to turn on the news and not find some new distressing political development in the country. On the other, if you nudge the conversation to the entertainment aspect of television, you’re bound to bump into a fan of the hit show Sultan Suleiman. Suffice to say that there has never been a better time to pick up a nice read that transports you from present reality to the city’s fascinating past. Set towards the end of Sultan Suleiman’s reign, Elif Shafak’s novel The Architect’s Apprentice is just the ticket. The novel follows the adventures of Jahan, a young Indian boy with a special affinity for his stepfather’s albino elephant calf Chotu, runs away from home, only to be conscripted as Chotu’s mahout when the pachyderm is sold to the Sultan’s menagerie. Another set of merry misadventures leads to him apprenticing with Mimar Sinan, the Royal Architect. This vantage point makes him the perfect narrator for all the algebra and politics that run through the veins of the ancient city. Through Jahan’s eyes we witness the communal relations between the Muslims, Jews and Christians of the city, the ways in which the cultures collide and coalesce, the race tensions, the bursts of harmony. We witness the conception and construction of many of the city’s iconic landmarks. We even take a trip to Italy to meet Michaelangelo, thus putting this piece of Turkish history in the context of the European Renaissance. We also get a sneak peek at the gender politics fermenting behind the shadowy walls of the royal harem, as well as the royal machinations that have bloody consequences. Peppered with wily princesses, scheming viziers, swashbuckling pirates, and crafty gypsies, the book has not a boring
Shafak’s prose is a perfect
in the way of the narrative. The plot
So if you’re hankering for an exotic,
minute. For a work of fiction (although
complement for the canvas of her
itself threads Jahan’s personal story
multicultural romp of a read, head on
set against a backdrop of real historical
story. Vivid and lively descriptions
into the greater picture involving
down to Pathak Shamabesh and grab
events) it could not be more relevant to
are woven into every line that brings
historical battles and real-life
your copy. n
the present as it is.
the whole story to life without getting
characters.
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
14 Perspective | Why I took off the hijab
Girl, unveiled Shehtaz Huq
D
haka, 2004. At thirteen, Death is at my door. I know this because Death claimed my cousin one
autumn morning, brought the family together into my uncle’s Gulshan flat, laid siege to our beings for months and years to follow. I go to bed and worry that I will forget to breathe. I wake up thinking that grief has swallowed up my words, my life. I want to safeguard myself against this entity. I search for answers in the pre-dawn hours before the first call to prayer, on the mat as my forehead bows east. I find it in the hijab. I am met instantly with the ire of friends, family, passersby. At a wedding, bejeweled and sari-clad women point and hoot. In school, fellow eighth graders stare openly. I am the only one in my year to wear the hijab. Some ask me if I’ve been to the hajj. Some ask me, voices tinged with concern, if my parents had coerced me into taking up this…vocation. I say no,
Photo: Bigstock
and I mean it. For six years I listen to the ridicule. At the American Embassy where my
not I had consented to the unveiling.
family presents itself to sit through
I acknowledge my tenuous grasp on
hours of air-conditioned tension, it
faith, the constant negotiation between
is gently suggested that I take off the
my world view and my religion. I
hijab “just this once.” At the studio where I go to get my passport picture taken, the photographer flatly refuses to photograph me with the hijab. I cry as I remove it, feeling denuded. “It’s not fair,” I say. I am told that there are other ways to be “pure,” to have
I do not regret it. In both choosing to wear it and in choosing to let it go, I had exercised my agency, my free will. I am no less a woman. I have not relinquished my identity
realize that I cannot reconcile myself to what wearing the hijab entails anymore. I give up the hijab in 2010. I am met with sneers, snickers, smugly raised eyebrows. “English medium girl like her—it was never going to happen.”
purdah. “Girls your age,” people say,
People on either side of the Atlantic
and shake their heads. “Girls from your
burrow through their repertoire of tired
background—this just isn’t something
jokes. “We thought this was a case of
you do.”
haji’r ghore paaji—guess not, huh?” They ask me if it’s a boy, my parents,
I pack my long sleeves and my scarves for the transatlantic journey
Government class, the teacher brings
neck. It is not the sneers, the snickers,
my imminent conversion to some
from Dhaka to Dallas. I am detained
up 9/11 and all eyes turn to me. A
the men in white pick-up trucks who
pagan religion.
at the airport for two hours. My first
rumor starts that I have an explosive
block my way in the parking lot to hurl
I do not regret it. In both choosing
sight of America is the uniformed
device tucked inside my hijab. The
expletives at me. Eight thousand miles
to wear it and in choosing to let it go,
faces of two Immigrations Services
police come. I unravel the folds of
from home, from the mosques and
I had exercised my agency, my free
officers. When I am released into the
fabric to show them that it is only my
azaan and the grudging solidarity of a
will. I am no less a woman. I have not
cold February air, the wind whips my
hair, feeling violated and denuded fifty
Muslim identity, I feel unmoored. I ask
relinquished my identity. I recognise
hijab into my face and I want to say
times over. They do not apologise.
myself questions. I lay out my reasons
the forces that had shaped me in those
and probe at them. I sift through the
nascent years but they do not shape
relationship with my hijab. I roll my
years and pick out the kernels of the
me now. When faces from Dhaka see
My second day of high school, a
hair and tuck it in, pin the fabric to
hows, the whys, the therefores. I come
me now and ask if it was the weather,
self-proclaimed joker runs up behind
my head, and allay the discomfort.
to understand that feeling denuded
the American friends, the wardrobe
me and pulls off my hijab. People
It is not only the heat, the wind, the
had little to do with the amount of skin
choices that compelled me I say no, and
laugh. I say nothing. In my advanced
eyes boring holes into the back of my
shown and more to do with whether or
I meanit. n
something, but I cannot, because this was a choice I had made.
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
Over six years I maintain an uneasy
Taking up the veil | Perspective
15
and corruption? How is it possible
Why I took up the hijab Tasnia Rashid
that we might wish to observe hijab so that men do not become indifferent towards their own wives due to seeing the beauties of other women, and so that these men do not turn their families into the scene of a battlefield with excuses and quarrels? Coming from a broken home myself, I have pure faith in the hijab as a means to help fortify the foundation of family, and
E
thus reduce the tally of divorce, single living, and distressed and guardianless
ver since I began wearing the
social standards of beauty. In their
illegitimate children with no guardians,
hijab (veil) countless people
struggle to shape their bodies and
accruement of mental illnesses,
have asked me: “Why?
faces as the media portrayed attractive,
increase of murder, crime, and suicide,
again that: 1) Pride is hard to break,
What made you decide to
some starved themselves while others
escalation of the number of unmarried
2) Peace and prosperity can never be
suddenly start covering your head?”
went under the knife. Some competed
women and men, postponement of the
attained without humility. A society
My reply is always the same: “Rather,
to keep up with the latest fashion
age of marriage, inclination of youths
in which people practice humility will
you should be asking what took me so
trends, while others became visibly
towards various moral corruptions and
always be in the interest of women.
long to finally do what I always knew
depressed with their inability to meet
sexual deviations, upsurge of divorce
This is why I have chosen to overcome
was right.”
the expectations and whims of social
statistics, and the superabundance of
my fear of Western judgement and
fancies.
men and women who must inevitably
Bollywood mentality, and to obey my
live alone and suffer loneliness.
Creator when He orders me to cover
A few weeks ago, during the month of Ramadan, Bangladesh experienced
As I grew, I came to realise that
children. History has taught us time and
a painful and horrific attack. We lost
this hypocritical freedom came at the
twenty precious lives at the hands
expense of the sacred foundation of
freedom of the West and promote
being. I have decided to become a
of atrocious terrorists. It was a shock
family. Freedom to consort as they
the oppression of Islam? What kind
trendsetter rather than a slave to the
that shook the nation, and me along
pleased resulted in indifference of
of society would we live in if women
system, and I will strive to fulfil my
with it. The fact that I was a regular at
men and women toward the home
accepted the restrictions of hijab
potential as a professional and an
Holey Artisan Bakery, where the attack
and family, suspicion of spouses
selflessly and in good will, in order that
intellectual in society. And I answer
occurred, made me question my own
towards one another, family conflicts,
their environment is free of deviation
only to Allah. n
But who was I to criticise the
my head and body for my own well
existence and realise that my death was not only inevitable, but also imminent. As a Muslim, I believe in the Day of Resurrection, and that I will have to answer for my actions. So how will I answer Allah when He asks me why I disobeyed His order to wear hijab? The truth is, I had been contemplating wearing a hijab for years before I finally mustered enough courage to go through with it. My main hindrance had always been society’s judgemental opinion of the hijab as a backward, oppressive practice associated with “Islamic extremism,” a term conveniently coined by enemies of the faith. But what weight did these judgements bare compared to my Lord’s judgement? Following their idle indulgences would not save me from His wrath and the raging hellfire. Unfortunately, the society I was raised in resulted in the delay of this transparent realisation. Growing up in the West, I was witness to countless heated arguments against the hijab, including points on how it oppresses women, shames them, and limits their potential. I even had a high school teacher preach that hijab was never ordained in the Qur’an. Needless to say, a bit of reading refuted those claims (24:30-31; 33:59; 33:32-33.) I also witnessed how in practising “freedom” women became slaves of
Photo: Bigstock
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
16 Show review | Sultan Suleiman
The hype with Sultan Suleiman Promiti Prova Chowdhury and Hasan Mansoor Chatak “For some reason, programs like this appeal to people. Historical pieces like Alif Laila were hugely successful. Audiences have a certain attraction towards Sultan Suleiman, maybe because of the era or because they want to know what happened to Muslims in the Ottoman empire. There is also romance, intrigue and action – all of these make it a good drama,” says Qazi Urfi Ahmad, the chief operating officer of Deepto TV. “People get hooked to the TV set if they see pretty people and Sultan Suleiman has that appeal. I have even read one comment on Facebook that one fan began studying the Ottoman empire after he started watching the show,” Urfi told the Dhaka Tribune. Some other viewers have also voiced their distaste for the show’s dubbing. Regarding this, the production team
viral on the internet. The
R
used the medium of television to find
it is the storyline which got him
original Turkish script to Bangla to
meme reads “Game of
respite from reality. It is a mode for
hooked to the TV show. “The show’s
set up a team of voice artists for the
Thrones for sons, Sultan
relaxation as well as a way to delve into
mindblowing storyline will give you
production. Jill Anjuman, another fan,
Suleiman for ammus.” Apparently,
the world of fantasies. To cater to that
space to think about it later when you
said, “This show is actually quite good
this meme resonates with the true
need, historical dramas have certainly
are not even watching the show,” he
if you ignore the terrible dubbing.”
picture of reality as Sultan Suleyman,
played massive roles. Proof? Shows
said.
a Turkish TV show dubbed in Bangla,
like Alif Laila, Sindbad and Robin Hood
has successfully been able to bring the
that were broadcast on BTV (dubbed
the series is probably the glamour
fiction television is based on the
interest of large, family audiences,
in Bangla), were extremely popular,
and glitz - something hardly found on
life of Ottoman Sultan Süleiman the
most of whom were previously more
making them favourites among many
local TV. Ijaj Mehboob, another avid
Magnificent, the longest reigning Sultan
inclined towards Indian daily soaps
in 90’s Bangladesh, across social-
fan, compared its glamour to GoT
of the Ottoman Empire, and his wife
back to local TV channels.
economic spectrums.
saying, “I’m a Game of Thrones fan and
Hürrem Sultan, a slave girl who became
I freaking love this show. The ladies
Sultana. It was originally broadcast on
of the House are so damn pretty and
Show TV and then transferred to Star
beguiling.”
TV. n
ecently, a meme has gone
revealed that there were several Over the last few years, people have
Shows like Alif Laila, Sindbad and Robin Hood that were broadcast on BTV (dubbed in Bangla), were extremely popular, making them favourites among many in 90’s Bangladesh, across social-economic spectrums
Though the context of Deepto TV’s
Within two months of its inception,
historical drama differs from HBO’s
Sultan Suleiman has reached its
hit fantasy Game of Thrones (GoT),
peak as far as TV program ratings are
the hype generated by the saga on the
concerned, according to Television
longest-reigning Great Sultan of the
Rating Points.
Ottoman Empire is quite new here. It’s
On attempting to find out what
also quite different from what people
people love about this show, it was
experienced in the last two decades of
quite sanguine considering Bangladeshi
Bangladeshi TV.
TV’s recent fall with viewers. Romeo
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
Rafi, a Sultan Suleiman fan mentioned
challenges when translating the
The next interesting thing about
Written by Meral Okay and Yılmaz Şahin, the Turkish historical
TV favourites | Reflections
17
The golden era of BTV:
the time of dubbed TV series Saqib Sarker when watching the
Archive). The Bengali dub made it
of Mohishur) was slaughtered by the
tele any time you want
Salma, but that’s alright because they
English.
wasn’t an option.
didn’t have Wikipedia then.
The prime time
Time Trax wasn’t for everyone
entertainment had
though. The general public was
would watch along with the whole
been local short dramas
mostly unimpressed by controlled
family. It was more to do with the
and vastly popular
manipulation in the space time
absence of TV channel epidemic than
drama series. The
continuum. The real storm in the
the strength of the programmes. But,
Bengali drama series
timeline was created when Zen Gesner
whatever the reason, it was quite
Shongshoptok created a
materialised on his ship, piercing both
something when the whole family
huge impact and showed
high waves and young women’s hearts.
would gather around a small screen,
what TV can really do,
The Adventures of Sinbad was massive.
laugh and be thrilled together, and may
in terms of reaching the
The Bengali dub made it accessible and
be talk about it at the dinner table. n
broad public. During
even more enjoyable for all.
the late 80s and 90s
It’s difficult to say if the tales
Bengali drama series
of the English outlaw trumped
by Imdadul Huq Milon
the adventures of the dreamy
and Humayun Ahmed
sailor from the Arabian Nights.
dominated the prime
But Robin Hood was massive
time.
too. People really did root for the
While all of that was
folk hero. Already in use in the
going on, there was a
English speaking world, the term
growing want for foreign
Robin Hood truly entered into
television series. With
Bengali usage.
shows like Miami Vice,
The Indian series Alif Laila
Knight Rider winning
proved that colourful stories of
a niche audience, BTV
magic and jinns never get old.
decided to broadcast
Despite its wacky visual effects
more and more foreign
and acting, the series genuinely
TV series. MacGyver, a
drew in a large audience. In a
hit almost everywhere
way, it replicated the story telling
here was a time not so
in the world already, struck gold with
events of old when people would
long ago, even though it
its broadcast in BTV. Every child and
gather around in someone’s yard
feels like the distant past,
teenager was mesmerised. Children
in the evening to listen to Puthi
when assortments of
would spend restless times at school
Literature being recited.
T
digital entertainment were delivered
anticipating getting their weekly fix of
through television and there was
MacGyver on Wednesdays.
only one television channel. The local
In the 90s, BTV started to air shows
The show that had the most cultural impact was probably The Sword of Tipu Sultan. It may be
corporations hadn’t yet figured out
dubbed in Bengali. The mid 90s saw
hard to comprehend now but the
how to milk the airwaves for optimum
the ultimate upsurge and popularity
sense of witnessing real historic
exposure of their brands, and viewers
of the dubbed TV series. Science
events played out was utterly
were content without hundreds of
fiction fans were overjoyed when BTV
a unique experience for a vast
different channels beaming away
decided to dub the time travelling
number of people. The audience
endless entertainment.
crime drama series Time Trax. The
truly rooted for Tipu Sultan.
show had already been showing in the
The tragic hero represented
popularly known as the ‘dish’,
original language and gathered a cult
everything that is right with
started to spring up everywhere. The
following. But the Bengali dubbing
this world. Tipu Sultan was the
unrelenting programming were quite
made it more interesting to the locals.
historic superhero who will stand
astounding to the general public, who,
The holographic figure of Darien’s (the
up against foreign aggression
by the way, had only been getting used
protagonist) computer looked surreal.
and defend his country until
to BTV broadcasting from 3am instead
The computer was a real character
his death. A lot of people wept
of the usual start at 5pm. It’s difficult
and it was called SELMA (Specified
after the final episode when
to imagine now that there was a time
Encapsulated Limitless Memory
the ‘Sher e Mohishur’ (the Tiger
The satellite TV receiver antenna,
These TV series were also the last television entertainment that people
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
18 stay in Clues ACROSS 5 Desert a pop group, no return (7) 6 Look for a lift problem (5) 9 I retain strange ability to stay still (7)
DOWN 1 Straw loses good man without cooking (3) 2 Astronomer girl has one star sign (7) 3 Ace duet moved to teach (7) 4 Insect initially after National Theatre (3) 7 Number nine follows first of scores (3) 8 Observed tool (3)
Sudoku
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19)- In theory, you have the ability to channel your attention and get ahead of the game, but you may find that when it comes right down to it, you feel restless and can’t quite concentrate
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
as much as you’d like. Taurus (Apr 20-May20)- A purchasing decision may be in the cards this week, especially if you’re considering making changes to your home, or holding a celebration. Gemini (May 21-June 20)- Working constructively with others could mean you accomplish much more than usual, and this week looks helpful for doing just that. Think before purchasing any big-ticket items. Cancer (June 21-Jul22)-Time management could be of the utmost importance this week, enabling you to get much more done than you might normally. If you and another are currently dealing with an issue, this is when it could come to a head. Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22)-This could be a very constructive week for you, particularly if you’re working on a creative project or
Solved it? Email answers to weekend@dhakatribune.com and win one free month of the Dhaka Tribune.
want to get a business idea off to a great
Last week’s solutions
Last week’s sudoku solutions
start. Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)-A little quiet time may be all that’s needed to enable you to resolve an issue linked with home or family matters. Libra (Sep 23-Oct22)- Plans and projects will involve teamwork, perhaps when a group you belong to convenes this week, even though you may have your doubts. Much can be achieved with some focus. Scorpio (Oct23-Nov21)- If you’ve been feeling emotional, you might upset someone. Adopting a tactful approach could sidestep this. In addition, an
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)
opportunity to help boost your finances may show up. Sagittarius (Nov22-Dec 21)- Don’t refrain from doing anything that could expand your horizons. It’s natural to be cautious when embracing change. If you’re nervous, think baby steps. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan19)- This could be a week when you feel naturally inclined to resolve an issue that has bugged you for some time. Perhaps it’s been subtly holding you back and you may not have had much opportunity to deal with that. Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18)- If you can take some time out, you’ll find that relaxing and recharging leave you feeling more energised and upbeat. Avoid tackling complex tasks if you can. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)- The more creative and communicative you are this week, the more you’ll impress those in high places. You may find that you can forge ahead with a plan in a way that is very pleasing.
WEEKEN D TR I BU N E | F R I DAY, J U LY 22, 201 6
horoscopes
Mini cryptics
Go out
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Weekly Planner July 23 July 24
Seminar | Higher Studies In North America and Europe
Concert | RockNation 2016: SummerStorm When 2:00pm Where Gulnoksha - Bashundhara Convention City 1, Dhaka, Bangladesh What This summer, the winds are gathering to stir up a storm featuring your favourite bands in the most unusual forms presenting unforeseen surprises! And here’s the beauty of it all – no telecasts,
no repeats – this is indeed a live experience in the truest form. Performing bands include: Warfaze, Aurthohin, Vikings, Shironamhin, Nemesis, Arbovirus, Cryptic_Fate, Avoidrafa, Powersurge, Indalo, and Minerva. Tickets are Tk900 only. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ events/276542176029985/
July 22
When 2:00pm Where IEEE Student Branch DU, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh IEEESBDU is organising a seminar on higher studies in North America, jointly with the Electrical and Electronics Club (EEC), EEE DU. The seminar will focus on study and preparation for higher studies and approach for admission in North America and Europe for current prospective students. The seminar is open for all. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ events/497124713819643/
July 25
Exhibition | Marketer’s Market 2016 When 10:00pm Where United International University, House # 80, Dhaka, Bangladesh What Marketers Market is a INTER-UNIVERSITY Entrepreneurship Exhibition & Marketing Contest where, firstly, students & young entrepreneurs can exhibit & branding their own products & service, secondly, students, without product or service, can develop business & marketing skills through competition. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1398210093526274/
July 27
Workshop | GMAT workshop
Education | Excelerious 2016 When 10am Where Dhaka, Bangladesh What Excelerious 2016 is an initiative to inspire thousands of students and young professionals through a competition to learn the professional facets of Microsoft Excel. The competition contains training, workshop and counselling sessions on professional insides of using Microsoft Excel application. In Excelerious 2016, one can participate in workshop, seminar, boot-camp [3 days for the high scorers only] career counselling, and a chance to win Tk50,000.
The program is expanding through partnerships with academia, industry and media. It is expecting some exciting engagements with Silicon Valley for keynote speakers in seminars and boot camp. Find detail and necessary information about the competition at: www.excelerious.com Registration Link: https://goo.gl/ a0JrPG For any inquiry, please email: Asif Yeasin Kabir | Project Coordinator| Enliven Bangladesh Email: asif.ykabir@gmail.com
When 5:00pm Where EMK Center, Midas Center Building (9th Floor) House 5, Road 27 (old) Dhanmondi Dhaka 1209, Bangladesh. What #EducationUSA at the EMK Center is hosting a free two-Day GMAT tips and strategies workshop. No registration is required to attend.
July 29
Festival | Green Film Festival When 8:00am Where Islamic University of Technology, Board Bazar, Dhaka, Bangladesh What Green Film Festival organised by Cennovation 2016. It is a festival to promote and inspire the work of University going film makers. The festival focuses on the environment sector with the slogan ‘Filming the green.” For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1201720143179760/
WE E K E N D TR I BU N E | FR I DAY, J U LY 22, 20 1 6
20 Animal Instincts | Persian Cats
Cat Chat Saudia Afrin
D
espite its luxurious coat, open pansy like
appear even larger. The Himalayan requires high
gold, copper, green, and blue coloured eyes. With long
faces and large excessive eyes, the Persian
level of grooming. It loves playing with its parents
and silky coats they are found in all the same colours
cat’s sweet and gentle personalities make
when young. The owners biggest challenge would be
and patterns as the Traditional.
them one of the most desired pets around
making a balance between nutrition and exercise to
the world. It has been an avidly sought after breed
keep them healthy. These don’t have wide variation
since it was first brought into Italy in 1620 by Pietro
in eye colours like the Traditional. Generally these
della Valle from Persia (contemporary Iran).
cats will have blue, copper or green eyes. They do not
Here is a quick glance on the different types of
need a lot of social attention. They are very friendly
Persian cats - from the traditional to most popular
and easily adaptable. Their colours range from
cross-breeds to the similarly featured Turkish cat.
chocolate, seal, lilac, blue, black, flame, red, cream, tortoiseshell, frost, silver, golden, brown, fawn, and cinnamon.
Chinchilla Cat Ethereal and fairy-like Chinchillas, a variety of the Persian cat is one of the oldest ‘man breed.’ Beginning of the breed happened in 1882 with a cat by the name of “Chinnie.” Some enthusiasts claim that
Traditional Persian cat
the Chinchilla Persiana is considered to be the most
Flowing coat, sweet face and calm personality - these
beautiful of all Persian cats. Although the Kittens are
three words truly describe a traditional Persian cat.
born almost black with heavy tabby markings, that
However, they require rigorous maintenance in
disappears over time with age and metamorphosing
order to preserve the long and silky coat. This sweet
in silver and gold. They have a similar personality to
cat has a bit of a weight issue. The owner must pay
Persian Traditionals and no potential owner should
great attention to weight management. These cats
proceed without committing to daily grooming. Males
generally have blue, copper, green, hazel coloured
weigh 12 lbs and females 8 to 12 lbs. They live for 12 to
eyes. The Traditional has a life span of 8 to 11 years.
15 years. They have a beautiful lengthy and silky coat.
Their long and silky coats come in a wide range of colours including white, red, black, blue, chocolate, lilac, silver, golden, cameo, tortoiseshell, blue-cream, brown, calico and seal.
Exotic Shorthair cat The Exotic Shorthair cat is a Persian with short coat. The Exotic is nicknamed as “the lazy man’s Persian.” This breed is a cross among American
Himalayan Cat The Himalayan, is a colourpoint version of the
Shorthair, Burmese or British Shorthair. Exotics are
Turkish Angora
prone to breathing problems, due to their flat faces,
Through various sources from the cat breed history,
and are sensitive to heat. To keep them healthy
Angoras and Persians appear to be connected to
the carer needs to keep them in an air-conditioned
this breed. In her book titled The Book Of The Cat,
environment as well protect them from any place
F Simpson wrote that in the 19th century Persians
with high temperatures.
and Angoras were identical. An active and sweet cat,
Males weigh around 12 lbs and females from 8 to
the Turkish angora is children friendly. They have
Persian. Himalayan is a cross between Persian cat and
12 lbs. They live up to 15 years or longer. They are
blue, copper, green, and gold eye colours. They are
pointed pattern of the Siamese. Despite being heavily
excellent lap cats, meaning, of course, they are happy
currently an endangered breed. n
boned, its masses of straight and long fur makes it
to sit on the owner’s lap and do nothing. They hace
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