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Dhaka Tribune

Thursday, May 30, 2013 Volume 1, Issue 6

6 check out!

Urban Truth ON TRIAL ROOM

17 eat out!

Uttara’s best kept secret:

Mesquite grill 8 Find out what’s making dhaka mad!

Contents

inside...

Volume 1, Issue 6, May 30, 2013

11

Twinkling trinkets for every occassion

8

N Anita Amreen Najmal A Nadvi

Anger outlet!

Syed Zakir Hossain

Zaki Adnan

20 Travel Experiencing rio

Musarrat Rahman Navin Ahmed Sabikun Nahar Agony Aunt

Mahbub Alam Asmaul Hoque Mamun

Cover photo: Latif Hossain Models: Misha

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9

The versitality of navy

CURLY CUES

4. Tuned Soulful music for rainy days 5. Tech & Turns Samsung Galaxy S4 6. Trial Room Urban Truth: where casual

meets chic 8. Tantrums Ranting away 9. Tailored This season’s standouts 10. Tempt Framing your eyes 12. Cover Dynamics of a healthy relationship 14. Tags ‘Peace’ art exhibition & Kozmo (A)live Armeen Musa and band 16. Tell Public speaking fears 18. Trails Sonargaon serenity 20. Travels Exploring the exquisite Rio 22. Take Care Straightening up

Send in your queries, views, suggestions at avenuet@dhakatribune.com

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Tuned Entertainment

See

The marvelous

singer/songwriters

The popular street racing movie “Fast & Furious 6” is an action thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Starring Dwayne Johson, aka The Rock, Michelle Rodriguez and Vin Diesel, the movie is packed with adventure and speedy race cars that make it a must-see.

one. The inception of these marvelous singers/songwriters came into prominence during the mid 1990s.

Contemporary music emphasises the types of songs generally produced by singers/songwriters. Their music tends to be extremely personal, yet universal in its appeal. Most listeners can relate to their lyrics, as well as enjoy the instrumental music aimed at complementing the concept of each of their songs. Traditionally, the two most popular instruments to accompany their songs were guitars and pianos.

From a broad perspective, the songs of singers/songwriters could be categorised as anything from romantic or confessional, to political or conceptual. A notable feature of these songs is their ability to represent the period in which they were produced.

in Dhaka

•Exodus-Summer Pool Party Time: 4pm to 10pm Venue: The Westin Dhaka, Splash, Main Gulshan Avenue

30th

and many more

1st

•Stone Free Acoustic-classic

•The Soul Festival

Time: 4pm to 11pm Venue: Mermaid Cafe at Gulshan Circle-2

rock and blues

•Trio Band Kendraka

Concert

Fri

Thrs

MAY

This Week

31st

•Savar AID CONCERT by Shafin,

Arnob, Nemesis, Elita, Armeen, Blunderware, 12 AM

Time: 5pm to 11pm Venue: Platinum Suites, House 58, Road 11, Block-F, Banani

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Eric Claption, Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), Ani Difranco, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Elton John, John Mayer

Bob Dylan’s “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” // Nina Simone’s “Pastel Blues” // Michael Jackson’s “Thriller // Tracy Chapman’s self-titled album “Tracy Chapman” // John Lennon’s “Imagine” // Jason Mraz’s “We Sing. We Dance.

We Steal Things” // Norah Jones’ “Come Away with Me” // Jack Johnson’s “In Between Dreams” // Alanis Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” // Damien Rice’s “O” // Adele’s “21”

To-Do's Time: 7:30pm to 11pm Venue: Splash, The Westin Dhaka, Main Gulshan Avenue

Other popular singers/ songwriters include the likes of

If you wish to know more about these marvels of music, be sure to surrender your heart to the greatest albums in the history of contemporary singers/songwriters

JUNE

Watch

Here I am, sitting, waiting and wishing for the mornings that begin with a thunderous strike of lightning, a drizzle of rain, the familiar dampened fragrance and the exotic voice of Norah Jones singing to me: “Come away with me and we’ll kiss, on a mountain top. Come away with me and I’ll never stop loving you.” For such a blissful moment, I feel the need to thank the birth of a new revolution, a group of talented artist or, as the music world would call them, “singers/ songwriters.”

Historically, singers and songwriters played distinctive roles in the realm of music. While the songwriters were engaged in birthing the words and melodies of a song, singers – aka song stylists or performers – presented their own rendition of those songs. However, the evolution of artistry resulted in the convergence of these two groups into

Zaki Adnan is singer, song writer and composer of an experimental rock band, Circus Police.

Sat

Award-winning chef Stevie Parle and professional spice blender Emma Grazette explore the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, to discover the essence of chillies.

Join their adventure to learn about the history of chillies 7,000 years ago, and meet the local aficionados to get advice on how to spice up your life.

Catch “Spice Trip” on TLC, every Monday to Friday at 10:30pm.

As the monsoon season dawns upon us, melodies that complement the endless rain await the chance to innocently delight our ears and melt our hearts ByZaki Adnan

Time: 7:30pm to 9pm Venue: EMK Center, 9th Floor, Midas Center, No 5, Road 16 (old-27), Dhanmondi •One Day Wedding

Photography Workshop by Prito Reza

Time: 9:30am to 5:30pm Venue: Experience Zone, Fujifilm Digital Camera, GME House, Plot 21, Road 13, Block G, Niketan, Gulshan

6/7th Sun

4

•Exhibitors

Girls

Time: 10am to 8pm Date: June 6 to 7 Venue: Hotel Washington Ltd, 56 Gulshan Avenue, Road 132, Gulshan-1

Tech & Turns 5 App Watch

New Tech

A movies checklist

S4 the win

The Android 2.2 operated Samsung Galaxy S4 has recently entered the market and This application is strictly packs a host of new features for smartphones By Mahmood hossain meant for entertainment and caters to the millions It may not be as stunning or attractive •The camera is stacked with cool feaas the HTC One or iPhone 5, but tures. For example, you can shoot a of moviegoers around its performance can still steal the video entirely in slow motion show. It possess a blinding quadthe world By Mahmood Hossain For film lovers, TodoMovies is possibly the best app to manage all the movies you would like to watch. Once you’ve added movies you desire to view, you can easily check them off and move on to the next. Sure, it’s simple, but there’s plenty more this app has to offer.

core processor, a colourful 5-inch HD screen, a fantastic 13-megapixel camera, and loads of software extras.

It’s safe to say the S4 is the most powerful superphone in the world.

• Unlike the HTC One and iPhone 5, the S4 has expandable storage space and a removable battery • The S4 allows you to use split-screen with the multi window feature.

Two apps viewed at the same time makes it easier to shift from one job to another

• The 1080p screen and very fast processing speeds make it ideal for gaming, not to mention the infrared blaster that can control your TV • The 441ppi HD AMOLED display is spot on with colour saturations and contrast that provide sharp and defined details

• Knox security is the company’s new security layer. The S4 is the first phone to launch with Knox. This addition gives you easy access to your personal and business profiles so you can use the phone in work mode

• The S4 also tracks your gaze, allowing it to pause a video automatically when you aren’t looking at the screen. You can also answer a phone call with a simple hand gesture, without touching the screen

You can check out or purchase the new Samsung Galaxy S4 for around Tk64,000 in stores like Gadget & Gear.

Wheels TodoMovies brings you: • Watchlists: The “To Watch” list is the main draw for this application – the heart of it all, if you will. You can begin making a list the moment you start the app. You don’t need to make an account or waste time signing up to use it.

• Movie discovery – This feature allows you to browse for upcoming movies and those currently in theatre, as well as to scan by genre every movie that has ever been released.

In addition, this app will regularly recommend movies to watch under each genre.

• TodoMovies score – Many of us tend to read movie reviews before deciding to invest our time and money in watching them. With TodoMovies, you no longer need to get confused by the wishy-washy rants of critics and overly hyped comments of fans. The app’s new rating system gathers a universal rating for every movie. Rotten Tomatoes and Netflix ratings are also a swipe away.

• Release notifications – When there is an unreleased movie on your “To Watch” list, this app will notify you of its release. It will also allow you to set that notification as a reminder for the future.

For the time being, ToDoMovies is only available on the iOS and can be synced with iCloud through all iOS devices.

2012 Kia Optima When it was redesigned in 2011, the Kia Optima pitched its ordinary past and went broke. The gamble paid off handsomely, and today’s Optima isn’t just one of the best family sedans for economy, it’s also one of the bestlooking cars of its class.

Squarely in the same class with the likes of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, Kia’s distinct styling direction is the polar opposite of the Optima’s fraternal twin, the Hyundai Sonata.

The Optima contrasts a sporty, European look with a lower roofline, stretched headlamps, and a nifty up kick in its rear quarters. It boasts

By Tahsin Momin

an exciting, clean-cut and laid-back athletic posture along with flashy chrome wheels. The interior is a fine match, with a big set of gauges and a wide rectangular bank of controls focused towards the driver. In other words, the Optima is an Audi with almost all of the sophistication and a lower price tag.

In performance, the Optima is offered in three different variants – base, luxury and sport. Base and Luxury models have a 2.0-litre, 163 horsepower engine with a six-speed automatic transmission; whereas, the Sport models have a 2.4-litre, 178

horsepower engine with a six-speed automatic transmission coupled with paddle shifters.

The engines work well in concert with the independent suspension, giving the Optima a quick, nimble feel. All the while, ride quality is firm but comfortable, and the Optima’s cabin is a quiet, refined place to be.

Features remain the strength of the Kia lineup, and the Optima is no exception. It’s a lot of value for the money, with standard power features, cruise control, a USB port, satellite radio, dual-zone climate control and a smart-key system, along with options for leather trim, a panoramic sunroof and Infinity audio. Aside from the usual airbags and stability control, the Optima also has standard Bluetooth and an available rearview camera.

Price: Tk550,000 and up Warranty: three years manufacturer warranty Available at: 1. Motor World Imports House 65B, Road 27, Block-A, Banani, Dhaka 1213 2. Executive Motors Ltd 188/B Gulshan-Tejgaon Link Road, 1208 Dhaka, Bangladesh

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Trial Room

Urban Truth These selected cute meets sexy in a casual chic look brought to you by Urban Truth By Mahmood Hossain Photos: Latif Hossain

Top – Tk720 Pants – Tk650

Top – Tk600 Jeggings – Tk1,100

Whether you’re trying to make a statement in bold, loud colours or pull off a subtle look in a lovely contrast of camo, these summer looks are sure to get you noticed.

Summer is about cutting down on layers and embracing the fun while staying classy.

Each item here hits the right spot, so you can let your hair down and feel the comfort of being you.

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Trial Room

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Maxi dress – Tk1,500 Top – Tk520 Pants – Tk1,075

Simplicity is key for an attractive and relaxed look, so don’t be afraid of taking your time in the trial room to find the right outfit.

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Tantrums

RANTS

Horoscope

Angry? Annoyed?

Let’s hear about it. We all have bad days, but it's nice to know we’re not alone...

I cycle to work come rain, hail, sunshine or hartals. It saves me half an hour each way, which means an hour more to sleep, work or pick my nose. Plus of course, it leaves me with a small but shapely behind. With clear roads and less honking, fumes and hassle, you’d think hartals would be a boon. However, new terrors lurk during these uncertain days.

Businessman Age: 38

I have been running around town with extremely bushy eyebrows since God knows how long! Why? Because time is something that I don’t have. I’m an advertising professional with a one-year-old boy! Every day is a crazy race where my goal is to reach the finish line with some shred of sanity. Making breakfast, bathing the baby, packing his lunches and snacks, making sure there is proper food for my husband and me and dealing with domestic drama make up just the first few hours of my day. The office drama starts soon afterwards, and there is ALWAYS drama at work! On top of that, I am frightened to commute during hartals and Hefazat sit-ins with people torching and breaking cars and buildings breaking down. All I can say is: seriously, dear political leaders, please think about how your “struggle” for power affects the lives of the people you are seeking votes from!

advertising executive (female) Age: 31

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Just look at how people behave.

Man, this really gets to me, it does.

No, not the politicians, but us. People we know. People we are friends with. As soon as something happens, Facebook simply erupts with venom we direct at each other.

People judge you for too much patriotism, too little patriotism, or too much leftism or rightism. They judge you without knowing about your life outside of Facebook, and sometimes even have the audacity to tell you to change your behavior in ominous tones. To all these judgmental people, I say you are wrong.

You don’t know me, so don’t judge me based on my Facebook behavior. I have a life outside of it, and so should you.

Development worker (female) Age: 34

Firstly, the few private cars, ambulances and baby taxis that are on the road speed like maniacs, asserting their domination of the road or otherwise highly nervous at the thought of getting a brick or worse thrown at them. The biggest hartal menaces are Dhaka’s pedestrians. Absolved of any responsibility of checking for traffic, they magnificently step into the road, phones glued to heads and lost in conversation. With zero stopping distance, their Matrix-like powers of stopping cars with an upraised palm becomes ineffective. Give me traffic anytime. journalist (female) Age: 29

Aries (mar21-apr19) ) all your Somehow interactions tend to be confusing and disheartening. Take some time off and spend it alone.

Taurus (apr20-may20) You will be extremely demanding of your partner and may tend to make unreasonable demands. Don’t let your anger get the better of you.

Gemini (may21-june20) As you rush towards the ladder of success, your over aggressive attitude may give rise to controversies. Keep a low profile for a while.

Cancer (june21-jul22) This week you will be able to purchase that prized item that you only dreamt of, and your desire to spend will be irresistible. (jul23-aug22) Leo This week you shall see a change in yourself. You will be more open and revealing than usual. You will revel in this newfound comfort.

Virgo (aug23-sep22) You may feel that the whole world is out to get you. The smallest of things can leave you on edge. This week calls for reflection. (sep23-oct22) Libra This week will call for patience as you see the tyrant in close ones emerge. As their domineering personalities surface, you must hold your tongue and raise your tolerance level.

Scorpio (oct23-nov21) Your energy levels will be high, and no exertion will seem like too much. This is when you should complete all the unfinished tasks you piled up over the last few weeks.

Sagittarius (nov22-dec21) If you are in an unstable relationship, you’ll be easily distracted. You may meet someone that you’ll eventually pursue. (dec22-jan19) Capricorn You will be on a cloud this week, lost in your very own dream world. This is not the ideal time to make commitments or important decisions. (jan20-feb18) Aquarius Good fortune will come your way this week. You will find great joy in sharing your happiness with others.

Pisces (feb19-mar20) You will be particularly optimistic this week, expecting all things to go your way. Don’t be disheartened if they don’t – chances are high.

Tailored

9

Style

His Style

Session

Navy three way

Bright hues and simple pastels are great for the warmer months, but navy blue is the standout dark colour this season By Mahmood Hossain Photos: Latif Hossain It is the ideal colour for gentlemen who have to juggle their office hours with personal business. After a long day at work, whether you’re hanging out with friends or attending a classy dinner/meeting, navy blue’s versatility makes it the go-to colour of the season.

Q: I’m in my 30s and I’m wondering which hairdo is cool for my age. How can I keep up with all the cool kids?

Whether you’re rushing from one event to the next or simply relaxing on a weekend, here are three different looks you can carry throughout the day:

By Mahmood Hossain The navy suit and tie game works perfectly for a day in the office.

Different shades of blue go well with the navy look.

Lose the tie and add flair with a pocket square. This is a more relaxed look that doesn’t sacrifice your chic status and works best for those dinners/meetings after work.

A: Always dress your age. The same goes for your hair. The simplest way to style your hair is to keep it short and clean.

Popular hair trends are still in touch with vintage. A side part with pomade is still the go-to hairdo when you’re aiming for a sophisticated look. If you’re tempted to apply a hair product to your head, do some research first. It’s always good to know the benefits and hazards of a hair product, which may harm your scalp.

Pull the navy suit jacket over a simple polo and pair of jeans. This casual look will get you ready to have fun with the blokes after work and can be carried on into the weekend.

Pocket rules

Q: The rain in Bangladesh makes it difficult to wear certain shoes. What are the perfect shoes to wear during the rainy season?

Pocket squares are all about personal style, but make sure to keep several points in mind before adding that extra flair to your look Photo: Big Stock

By Mahmood Hossain 1 Pocket squares are strictly for show.

If you blow your nose in one, it belongs in the pocket of your pants. Always keep an extra handkerchief with you 2 Silk pocket squares are out of favour (apologies to the older dandies).

Cotton and linen bring more character to the table and create a cooler look for the warmer days. For only Tk500, these squares will look just as good as costly cashmere ones.

3 Wear a square that hints to a colour in your shirt or tie. If your check tie has a subtle blue stripe in it, go for a square that has a blue tipping.

4 If your breast pocket bulges too much, you need to refold the pocket square or get a smaller one.

5 It’s okay to spend a couple of minutes messing with your square in front of the mirror till you’re satisfied with it. Nonchalance, believe it or not, takes plenty of practice.

A: Raining on your style parade can be a downer. Even though it’s spring, avoid wearing suede and leather shoes in the rain. The best shoes to wear during this time are casual sneakers – not the ones made for sports – and possibly rubber boots.

If you must wear dress shoes, try your best to keep them away from the rain. Bring them with you in a shoe bag (like the ones sold at Bata for Tk60) and switch into them once you get indoors. Doing this discretely will be the hard part. Good luck!

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Tempt Beauty

BROW WOW!

Navin Ahmed has studied Cosmetic Techniques and Management at Sheridan College in Canada. She worked as a freelance make-up artist in Toronto and is the founder of GALA Wedding Planners and Makeover Studio in Dhaka.

When it comes to facial features, little has more power and impact than the shape of your brows. Getting the shape right will give you an instant face-lift.

Getting it wrong can cause all sorts of problems. For instance, many women don't realise that the shape of their eyebrows can visually alter the look of their noses (for all the wrong reasons).

What’s more, the colour of your brows can either harden your features or take years off!

Great brows frame your eyes. They hold everything together and give your features definition and strength. There is no point in applying glamorous and dramatic eye make-up if you have eyebrows that look like caterpillars, slugs or tadpoles By Navin Ahmed

outer bridge of your nose. That is where your first brow hair needs to start.

Now, from that bridge line, draw another line that passes along the outer rim or centre of your pupil and upwards. This is the highest point of any arch or height of the brow.

Finally, again, from the bridge line draw a line to the outer corner of your eye.

This is where your brow should end.

Super tips

The easiest way to achieve a foolproof brow is to follow a few small rules and three long lines: Everyone has different sized nostrils and noses, so your first imaginary line must follow the natural line of the

International Trends

The modern minimalist

Musarrat Rahman is a fashion designer and recent graduate of the Raffles Institute of Higher Education

Here’s the thing about trends: a decade-old iconic look will resurface every several years, giving you the excuse to dig into your mother’s, father’s, older sibling’s and even your own closets (to circa your own angsty teen years). In other words, you can be at the height of fashion without having to dish out the big bucks By Musarrat Rahman This year, you’ll be happy to know the 90s are back!

Forget about the florals and 70s hippie/ chic looks of last year. Focus instead on minimalist black and white (think 90s Jil Sander). There has always been something so very reassuring about black and white – it’s clean and simple,

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modern and assertive, but never too “in your face.”

You can’t go wrong with this trend!

There is a variety of ways to be creative with such a limited colour palette.

You can opt for colour blocks, figureflattering verticals and stripes or any of the countless options available. This

look doesn’t necessarily have to be interpreted clothes-wise; accessories and shoes will also do the trick. A black or white statement necklace or some classy pearls are a great way to spice up an open neckline while keeping up with the latest trends.

q Get your eyes shaped by a professional to give them definition. q Trim any extra long hairs of your brows. q Always check your brows from the side – use a second mirror to see your profile. q Match your brow pencil to your brows’ hair colour, not your desired hair colour, as the difference would be too obvious. q If you lighten the colour of your hair, then consider lightening your brows. q Use transparent mascaras.

They keep the brows in place. q Try not to wax your brows, opt for threading instead. q Unibrows are not in! Please get rid of the joint!

Tempt

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Local Trends

Enchanting earrings “You can always tell what kind of a person a man really thinks you are by the earrings he gives you” – Audrey Hepburn By Hiroe Kunimoto

Photo: Big Stock

Whether it’s a twinkling trinket or a bold set of studded hoops, the perfect earrings can truly make your day. With a wide variety of earrings of every price to choose from, Dhaka’s dwellers are luckily spoilt for choice. Put a little thought into what works best with your outfit and embrace the new trends

Evening wear: Large, solid stones in bright colours surrounded by smaller, white gems are a must-have this season. You can find the perfect pair in malls like Bashundhara City, Pink City Metro Plaza and Eastern Plaza. Branded stores like Gems or Celebrations sell them at a starting price of Tk1,000.

Daily wear: For casual occasions, embrace your funky side and pick up some fun, lighthearted earrings. Hit stores like Archies, Hallmark or even market stalls for inspiration. Keep an eye out for skulls, dice or even bow-shaped studs to help bring out your wild side. Since they’re on the cheaper side – starting at Tk100 – go crazy and stock up on these designs so you can work a new look every other day.

Hiroe kunimoto is a brand executive for Apex Adelchi Footwear Ltd.

Hair

Curly cues It’s time to make amends and end the war we wage on curly and wavy hair. Even though most hair salons in Dhaka would like you to believe so, rebonding is not always the answer By Sabikun Nahar While some may like the effects of it, most women do not want dead, straight hair. Let’s retract the weapons of mass destruction and learn how to turn those locks from foe to friend.

Shampoo – The most important thing for your hair is a sulphate-free shampoo. Sulphates are detergents you want in your household products, but not your hair. Try shampoos like Aveeno, Moroccan Oil, Argan Oil, Loreal Sulphate-Free or The Body Shop Rainforest Alliance. These formulae prevent curls from getting frizzy and help colour last longer. For fine hair, use the shampoo every other day, and for thick hair, use every two days.

Condition, condition, condition For supersoft and hydrated curls, use a conditioner with a high percentage of emollients every time you wash your hair.

The no-heat plan – It can be difficult and time-consuming to style curly hair, but before you reach for the hair dryer or the flat iron, stop and think! Curly hair tends to be naturally dry, and heat styling will remove any moisture it has left. The art of towel drying, scrunching in the right products and setting the cool button on your hair dryer will make all the difference in the world. Let those curls bounce back to life!

SUPER TIPS q Use a deep conditioning mask as a treatment once a week to really smooth down the cuticles and help your hair fall into place naturally. Apply from mid length to ends to avoid oil buildup on roots. q If you want to grow your hair, get a mini trim every six to eight weeks to help it stay long and healthy without damage. Make your own treatment by mixing ripe papayas, canned coconut milk and bananas. Apply on your hair and leave it for one hour before washing off.

Products can be a curly-haired girl’s best friend. They are marketed and sold under various names, such a anti humidity, anti frizz, smoothing, curl defining, etc. q A good curl cream or serum can help you achieve a soft and healthy look. Apply on 50% dry hair and scrunch away! Settle all your differences and call it a truce! Its time to show your curls the love they deserve!

Sabikun Nahar is a professional hair stylist and make-up artist who has worked in Sydney, Australia, following her graduation at Toni&Guy Sydney International School of Hairdressing.

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12

Cover

Love actually

Relationships come in all forms – happy ones, wild ones, complicated ones and, of course, miserable ones.

No matter the type and no matter the cause, every couple fight from time to time. Despite the motto that “good communication” is what keeps a couple going strong , there are several other dynamics whose handling can make or break a relationship.

While proper communication is one of the most important ways to stay together, learning how to tackle these commonly disregarded concerns can keep the flame burning bright in your relationship

By Sabah Rahman

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The flaws of attraction A common mistake people make is convincing themselves their partners will change somewhere down the line. While you should never settle for someone who leaves you wanting more, you should not overlook a wonderful person for tiny flaws either. The key to a happy ending (or journey) is to REALLY get to know someone before making promises or commitments.

For example, if your other half is not very good with words, it is unlikely he will wake up one morning and sprout poetry to please you. He may, however, make up for his lack of romantic gibberish in a myriad of other ways. Before making a commitment,

take your time and think hard about whether this will work for you in the long run.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T Every individual possesses a unique set of boundaries. Many people tend to unconsciously cross these boundaries during fights. If your partner tells you something makes him/her uncomfortable, gently back off. Think about how long it takes to earn someone’s respect, and what a waste it would be to throw all that time and effort away over a petty scuffle. Learn to respect your partner’s boundaries instead of trying to challenge them.

The ex factor Unless you’re lucky enough to have moved after every failed relationship or to have found the right person on the first try, you probably have an ex or two lurking around within close proximity.

While it’s fine to be on friendly terms with your exes, it’s not okay to rub past flames in your partner’s face, or vice versa. Try not to allow exes to get entangled in your relationship, as this will just end up hurting all parties involved. The world would indeed be a beautiful place if everyone could get along, but the fact is, nobody wants to hang out with his/her partner’s ex.

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Let it go If you want to be happy with your partner, forgive his/her mistakes. Try to rid yourself of any negative feelings you have, and avoid dredging up the different ways your partner has wronged you in the past. Simply saying you have forgiven your partner’s mistakes but constantly bringing them up is a surefire way to incite resentment in your relationship

Be there The green-eyed monster Trust is one of the most important building blocks of a lasting relationship.

While it’s normal to feel a pang of jealousy at times, it’s abnormal to scream “bloody murder” and accuse your partner of sleeping with every person of the opposite sex he/she interacts with. Suspicion can result in the end of even the healthiest relationships.

Remember, your partner chose to be with you for a reason and will hopefully let you know if he/she develops feelings for another person.

Try to keep that in mind every time you get suspicious. It’s highly unlikely that your man wants to marry your best friend because he “liked” her photo on Facebook. However, constantly stalking and “liking” pictures of scantily-clad ladies or men online can raise a red flag and leave even the most secure people feeling panicky. Sit your partner down and calmly explain how his/her behaviour makes you feel. There is a good chance he/she will respect your emotions and try to make things right.

Dealing with life’s disappointments can be a real downer. Some people find it difficult to reach out to their loved ones when their lives seem to be falling apart. Others are good at being strong during tough times. The most important thing for couples is to learn how to deal with each other’s weaknesses and strengths. Whether it’s lending a shoulder to cry on or leaving your partner some space, always try to be supportive through the ups and downs of life. Also, try not to feel insecure or left out if your partner is having a positive experience without you.

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Tags

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1. Artist Afrozaa Jamil Konka 2. Dan Mozena, US ambassador to Bangladesh 3. In the middle, Dr Md Enamur Rahman, Chairman, Enam Medical College & Hospital 4. Actress and Artist Bipasha Hayat 5. Eminent Artist Professor Syed Abul Barq Alvi, Dean, Faculty of Fine Art University of Dhaka

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Peace

A group art exhibition ‘Peace’ featuring artist Afrozaa Jamil Konka, Bipasha Hayat, Maksuda Iqbal Nipa, Mohammad Iqbal, Rebeka Sultana and Pijush Kanti was inaugurated on May 24 at Gallery Cosmos -2. The exhibition will remain open till June 2 Photos by Sadia Marium

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1. Armeen Musa and band feat Subh Saran performing in the concert 2. From Left, Arif Hafiz, CEO and Founder of KOZMO Sumaira Shaheed, Nezim Farhan Chowdhury and Tasaffy Hossain 3. Shubh Saran playing the guitar 4. Armeen Musa singing 5. Felicia Wilson from US Aid and Olivia Wong from Grace International School

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KOZMO (A) Live presents

Armeen Musa and band feat Subh Saran at the Kozmo Lounge Banani on May 24 Photos by Sadia Marium

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Tell Letters to Mars

Letters to Venus

An eye for an eye?

I’m a 24-year-old man, and my girlfriend of three years just cheated on me with a married man whose son she tutors.

She said it was a momentary lapse in judgment, and that she’s extremely sorry and ready to win back my trust. Although the trauma has left me shattered, I admit with humility that I can’t live without her.

Even though I can’t trust her, I know I will get back with her. Right now, I just want to mentally torment her by giving her a taste of her own medicine. Am I being fair?

KK

Dear KJ, Confucius said: “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” Why? I will answer with Gandhi’s wisdom: “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”

Revenge harms us more than the person we want to harm, because it turns us into things we are not: angry, deceitful and hurtful. To be able to do what we want to, we basically become like the very person we want to punish. Why would you allow another person’s behaviour to dictate your own? I leave you with Marcus Aurelius, a philosopher I love who puts it better than I can: “ The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”

Crowded

Dear A, I can understand how difficult your situation is. Feeling scrutinised and not having your own space is never easy. In a culture where the son is obliged to stay with his parents, I also see your husband in the dilemma of having to defend his parents against your discomfort. What you can do is start making yourself feel more at home by believing that they like you and are not trying to make you unhappy. Remember, whatever we focus on, we will find, so focus on what is good about them and good-

I’m a 28-year-old woman married for the past three years. I live with my husband’s extended family, and that really bothers me. I have no freedom to do as I please, and I constantly have to be on the lookout for my inlaws. I worry about what they think of my actions. Despite being financially stable, my stubborn husband refuses to move out even though this situation is hampering our marriage. I will not and cannot continue living like this! What do I do?

A

ness you will find. You may ask: “Why should I do this?” It is in your interest to do it. The more you criticise them, the worse you feel, the worse they feel and the more your husband is obliged to defend them. Start saying nice things about them to your husband instead. You do not need to lie, as there is always something good to be found in every situation. You will see what a positive attitude and outlook will get you.

Let us know your success!

Our Agony Aunt is a life coach, a relationship coach, as well as a corporate and organisational consultant. AA lives and works in Bangladesh but travels extensively around the world to give seminars, to see her clients, as well as counsel them on Skype. AA is also a ghostwriter for a renowned American magazine.

Issues

I’m a 21-year-old female student studying in a private university. I have an intense fear of public speaking? How can I overcome this?

A My dear A, Your problem is more common than you think. Around the world, famous people who appear at ease while giving speeches actually have panic attacks before going on stage and addressing an audience. Begin by telling yourself: “Just as everyone has an opinion, I have my own. When someone speaks out and I disagree with their ideas and opinion, they will survive the experience.”

Even if you were to make a mistake or misuse a word, forgive yourself. Who doesn’t make mistakes?

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Also, remember you are at the centre of your own universe. Those listening to you are at the centre of their own universe, and are not paying much attention to you or anyone else.

Prepare by doing this simple exercise: 1 Imagine breathing out of your spine.

2 Starting from the back of your head, breathe out down your spine into your feet – (this will ground you and put you in the present, rather than in your fears) 3 Breathe in from the bottom of your spine into your neck 4 Breathe out through your throat Have you ever noticed that anyone about to speak clears his/her throat?

This is where our tension lies and where we fear words will not come out.

Photos: Big Stock

Stage fright

Practise this exercise with your eyes open at first. When you have mastered it, close your eyes and do it a few times.

For a while, do it twice a day just as you are about to speak. You will soon calm

yourself and begin to enjoy participating in discussions and presentations. Do let us know how you are getting along.

We all want to read how others find ways to live more comfortably.

Trails

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Inside Dhaka

Mesquite Grill

Uttara’s best kept secret While most "Dhakaites" instantly scream "El Toro" when asked about their favourite southwestern joint, others remain silent, a secret smile playing on their lips. Once the arguments have died down, the latter part of the crowd exchange knowing smiles, with their lips begging to whisper one name: Mesquite Grill By N Anita Amreen Price range Tk300-700

Located on an indiscreet street in Uttara’s sector 1, Mesquite Grill has remained Uttara’s best kept secret for too long. As a low-key southwestern restaurant that has built its reputation by word of mouth rather than extensive marketing, this restaurant's menu leaves little to desire. Not only does it specialise in quintessential southern cuisine, including nachos, tacos, steak and Buffalo wings, but it also has an entire range of sandwiches, burgers, pasta, pizza and southern chicken meals to die for. After revisiting this Mexicaninspired restaurant time and again, it is safe to say that in comparison to all other restaurants offering southern cuisine, Mesquite Grill is by far the best.

1 Buffalo wings: In terms of pure satisfaction, there is no finer food than Mesquite Grill's buffalo wings. Deep-fried to perfection, these wings are generously smothered in a secret sauce before being served right out of the frying pan with a side of delectable blue cheese dip.

3 Mexican pizza: Mesquite’s Mexican pizza is a layered delight filled with spicy beef mince, refried beans and salsa.

With layers of flour tortillas slathered with melted cheddar, this pizza really is a mouthful. Garnished with tomatoes, olives and onions, and topped with a gooey blanket of cheese, the Mexican pizza is a true winner.

4 Green fire chicken: Although there

isn’t anything particularly "fiery" about it, the succulent chicken breast used in this dish is highly addictive. Covered in a fresh coating of fried crumbs, the chicken is slathered with a generous dose of garlic cream cheese sauce. The crispy layer of crumbs embraces the garlicky goodness of the cheese sauce to create a dish of perfect harmony.

Coupled with their grilled veggies, creamy mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish is a must-have for all food enthusiasts.

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Texas chilli n cheese burger: This burger is essentially a sloppy joe with a Texan twist. The delicious meat patty is smothered in a warm dose of meat sauce with a special kick. This mouth-watering burger is excessively flavourful, and is probably one of the best burgers in town.

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Trails

Outside Dhaka

Sonargaon Sonargaon was an important administrative centre during the Mughal and British periods and continues to play an important role in trade between other countries in Southwest Asia. Around 10km outside Dhaka city, this area is still the hub of many business activities throughout the country.

You may wonder how interesting it is that this former capital city of Bengal (during the Mughal rule) now sits at the gates of our current capital city, Dhaka

By Farah K Iqbal What to do For a place right outside the gates of Dhaka city, Sonargaon has a wide variety of places to see. Your trip to Sonargaon can begin with a visit to the tomb of Giasuddin Azam Shah, the third and well-known medieval sultan of the first Iliyas-Shahi dynasty of Bengal. Next up should be a tour of the merchant houses scattered around town that were built during the Mughal period, when Sonargaon was the capital city. Each house was once occupied by a shah or an important British officer, and now is left with the remains of their legacy. Not far from these houses is the Mograpara palace, known as the residence of merchants from the Silk Route. Although Sonargaon’s reputation as an important trading point has dwindled in the past few

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years, its rich culture and history still attracts people from around the world.

What to eat Eating at the Kolapata restaurant is a must when in Sonargaon. The restaurant offers a variation of typical Bangladeshi cuisine and will leave your mouth watering for more.

Right in the heart of Sonargaon, the Kolapata restaurant has its own unique warmth, inviting travellers into its premises in a hospitable and obliging manner.

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Photos: Syed Zakir Hossain

Getting There where to stay

Sonargaon is within the greater city limits, so it is advisable to book accommodations within Dhaka and pursue day trips from your desired location

bus Service Buses are the most comfortable method of travel to get to the former merchant city. There are nonair-conditioned buses that leave Dhaka city for Sonargaon every hour. The best bus to take would be Hanif, which takes about one and half hours to reach your destination.

Tiger Tours Limited offers an extraordinary day trip package to Sonargaon with an air-conditioned van dedicated to your personalised activites.

INDEX Hotline numbers: 0184 145 5500, 0184 144 5500 or e-mail: info@tigertoursbd.com. http://bangladeshunlocked. blogspot.com/ http://www.tigertoursbd.com/

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Travel

RIO

Whether it’s to feast your eyes on the colourful parade of Rio Carnival, engage in the excitement of the FIFA World Cup or indulge in the beautiful beaches of Brazil, Rio should be at the top of your travel list for 2014! Enjoy the spectacular views from atop Corcovado’s peak and Sugarloaf Mountain, join the mind-blowing Carnival celebrations, and tuck into some of the exquisite traditional food this amazing city has to offer. Explore the land that brought the world gorgeous supermodels, the samba and the wonderful Bossa nova tunes that provide the perfect soundtrack to your personal paradise

Where to stay

Apa Hotel Tk7,700 per night for single room Conveniently located near the Copacabana beach, this budget-friendly hotel is only a mere 3km away from the heart of the city.

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Praia Ipanema Hotel Tk21,000 per night for luxury room This hotel of 105 rooms overlooks the famous Ipanema beach and boasts suites with private, ocean-view balconies.

Copacabana Palace Hotel Tk30,000 per night for superior room Known to be one of the finest hotels in Rio, the Copacabana Palace is conveniently located near every main attraction on a traveller’s list, and its rooms offer stunning views of the city.

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INDEX Apa Hotel Rua Republica do Peru 305 Copacabana, Copacabana/Leme Rio De Janeiro, Brazil 22021040 Praia Ipanema Hotel Av Vieira Souto 706 Ipanema, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil 22420-000 Copacabana Palace Hotel Avenida Atlântica 1702 Copacabana/Leme, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

What to do

Carnival tickets: http://www.rio. com/rio-carnival/ rio-carnivalpackages-2014

Carnival If you’re planning a trip to Rio in 2014, don’t miss the Carnival that kicks off around the end of February. Essentially a celebration of the rites of spring, this world-famous series of events has everything from shows and competitions

to parties and parades. With streets packed with merrymakers enjoying live bands, marches, samba dancers and drag shows, the Carnival presents the perfect time to soak up the local flavour, Book your Carnival tickets online now, so you can be a part of this unique experience.

Ipanema beach This beach is so well-known there is even a song written about it. The Ipanema beach is where most locals spend their summers. Slather on some sunscreen and spend the day watching beautiful Brazilians frolic in the sand. If you’re a sport enthusiast, you can join a game of football, surf or try Futvolei, a local version of volleyball played without the use of hands. End your perfect day on the beach with some fresh, grilled shrimp and a refreshing drink of frozen coconut milk.

Tijuca National Park No trip to Brazil would be complete without an experience of the country’s natural beauty. Tijuca National Park is an urban forest planted with numerous exotic species of plants. Expect to see waterfalls, wildlife and spectacular greenery. To explore the beauty of nature, you can go hiking, hang-gliding or, if you prefer to take it easy, splurging on a Jeep safari. A guided tour can ensure you don’t miss all the beauty this national park has to offer.

What to Eat

Flights

Wash your pastel down with a glass of sugar cane juice, as recommended by locals.

Churrascaria Churrascaria restaurants may have popped up across the globe, but Brazil is where these barbeque establishments are a must-try! Waiters bring around skewers of meat to each table, and diners can have their fill of whatever appeals to them most, be it chicken, beef, lamb or turkey.

Pastel A fluffy pastry pocket stuffed with a variety of meats, shrimp and cheese is the perfect snack for on the go travellers taking in the sights. The best versions are usually available in weekend markets, but can be found at cafes as well.

Qatar Airways flies daily from Dhaka to Doha, where connecting flights to Rio are available.

Brigadeiro End the perfect meal with these traditional, bite-sized, chocolate bonbons, covered with a generous dusting of chocolate sprinkles. Gourmet versions of different flavours are available as well, and make the perfect gift to take back home.

Globe Trotter KohSaxony, Samui, Thailand Germany

Shimla, Bangkok, Himachal Thailand Pradesh

Melbourne, Mount Abu, Australia India

12th Samui International Regatta Dixieland Festival 25 May1 June 2013 Dresden May 12-19

Shimla Jae Summer Danupon Festival Kaewkarn Classical 1-9 June, Concert 2013 May 25

Melbourne Summer Festival International May 23-25 Jazz Festival 31May-9 June

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Take care Health

The Kumbhakasana The Kumbhakasana, aka the plan pose or yoga push-up pose, is a common yoga pose that many workout enthusiasts have tried to master. It strengthens the upper core, shoulders, arms and wrists alongside toning the core muscles of the body

Photo: Big Stock spread them away from your spine Spread your collarbone away from your sternum u Your arms should be perpendicular to the floor, your shoulders directly over your wrists and your torso parallel to the floor

Sit up straight!

Besides making you look bad, slouching can have seriously detrimental effects on your health By Bassema Karaki Slouching is a common practice that can lead to many health problems, including backaches, headaches and neck and shoulder pain. When you slouch, your head and shoulders curve forward, and your spine is not aligned.

This puts pressure on your rib cage and strains both your lungs and heart to move faster to ensure an adequate flow of oxygen to your body. In other words, slouching constricts your airway, making it hard to take deep breaths and thus causing fatigue.

In addition, slouching pushes your internal organs downwards and may lead to gastrointestinal reflux.

A recent study from Harvard showed that people who adopted powerful postures had a 20% increase in testosterone levels and a 25% decrease in cortisol ¬– a stress hormone – levels, while people who

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Tuck your tailbone in, keeping your back long and straight u Using your heels, push your body backwards u Both hands should be firmly pressed to the floor with equal pressure.

There may be a little more pressure

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on the thumb and index finger Your neck must be elongated Keep your gaze steady and look at the floor in front of you u Avoid bending your back or pushing your tailbone too high upwards u u

Photo: Big Stock

Directions: u Stand on all fours, forming a pushup pose u Inhale and move your torso towards the ground until your arms form a 90 degree angle with the floor u Keeping your shoulder blades firm,

slouched had a 10% decrease in testosterone and a 15% increase in cortisol. In other words, people who slouched had low self-confidence and high stress levels as opposed to those with powerful postures. Another study from the University of Toronto showed that people who sat straight had decreased sensitivity to pain.

To avoid the problems of slouching and reap the benefits of a powerful posture, adopt these five simple steps into your daily routine.

Stand tall Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lengthen your spine.

Balance your weight equally between your legs and feet.

Create lower-back support Wherever you sit, including the car,

roll up a towel so it forms a long tube and place it between the small of your back and your chair.

Shift your position Sit on the edge of your chair with your rear end fully on the seat. This way you’re less likely to lean back.

Do the 2-second fix Set an alert on your phone or computer every hour to remind you to sit up and

drop your shoulders down and back.

Change the way you sleep Sleeping in the right position can improve your posture. To help your back stay aligned, put a pillow between your knees and lie on your side with your legs resting on top of each other.

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