AUGUST 2016
editorial
Technology has taken over and fashion is definitely not stranded on the sidelines. This month, we celebrate how technology is taking fashion to a new stratosphere. High-tech fashion for instance, has made an outstanding impact on the trends of global fashion. From the runways of couture week to the most prestigious event, the Met Gala, 3D printing has embossed its mark on designs. Aside from that, e-commerce has brought fashion to our fingertips. To understand the prospects of this phenomenon, we speak to trendsetters of leading popular web portals such as daraz.com.bd, zuumzuum.com as well as bagdoom.com, to learn how fruitful these ventures will be in the coming years (The Virtual Malls, P.96). As a fashion entity, we aim to always give you the
best in style; immerse yourself in our fashion portfolio and add an edge to your wardrobe with some of the best collections from popular signature lines in the city. The silk routes of China were sought after by royalty as an invaluable material; this very lustrous fabric is now implemented in local designs throughout the world. Zurhem has artistically embodied traditional Chinese designs into his East Asian inspired suits. Change is inevitable; be it to a higher caliber or a downfall, it is omnipresent through the passage of time. In the wee hours of July 1, the nation witnessed a major incident that changed our notion of life. The attack on Holey Artisan Bakery have instilled a new fear and uncertainty that is closer to home. We are a nation that rises above the doubts, moving forward in order to overcome this ordeal (Bent, Not Broken P.28).
CONTENTS August 2016
Fashion
Portfolios:
P. 48 Fashion Portfolio 1: Zurhem Zurhem’s jackets are what your wardrobe wants now P.60 Fashion Portfolio 2: JK Foreign Brands Glamourous ensembles for ceremonial events P.68 Fashion Portfolio 3: Sailor Cool Casuals from Sailor’s latest racks
P.30
Head to the beaches Winners of Veet Girls-on-the-go party with Shraddha apoor in Bali
P. 14 Say hello to Mango Mango Digital Limited launches their new mobile handset P. 16 Wearable gadgets we love Six must-have gadgets the modern man cannot live without P. 18 Plated to perfection Cafe de Partex spreads out a delicious array of fusion meals P. 20 A life well lived A tribute to eminent litterateur Mahasweta Devi P. 28 Bent, Not Broken Looking forward after the terror attack at Holey Artisan Bakery
A paradise of petals
Stop to smell the flowers at the vast tulip garden of Keukenhof P. 22
p.12
One with the soul Soul artiste Tashfia Fatima Tashfee talks about her love for singing
,
The Magazine That Reads You Closely Vol 13 No 08
P.78
Run the Town Your sports bag isn’t complete without Adidas’ run-ready sneakers
Les Hommes P. 32 Menssentials Clean up your grooming act with these tips P. 34 Boy Wonder Up, close and personal with our favourite Taskin Ahmed P. 36 Building a legacy How Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka is still reigning in the hotel industry
#BetterYou P. 40 In Safe Hands Know your rights in cases of harassment and abuse P. 44 The Brexitential Crisis Implications of Brexit on education in the UK P. 46 Bring home the Dough How you can earn money sitting in the comforts of your home
P. 54 Decor Deck up your home with Home Pro and Bravat’s interiors P. 74 The Techno Touch Looks inspired from the Met Gala show P. 80 Weaving a dream Nadz & Sabs presented their Phoenix Collection at the Australian Bridal Fashion Week P. 84 A little piece of paradise Regalo’s Spanish dishes tantalise the tastebuds P. 86 Tweak it up a notch The man’s guide to getting his party outfit to be on point P. 90 Appetisingly Asian Amari’s fine spread of Asian cuisine for you to try at home P. 96 Space Age Fashion How high-tech fashion is taking over the fashion industry, home and abroad P. 104 Italian Culinary Trail Sights, sounds and taste of Italy P. 110 Events News and reviews of local events
August 2016
Publisher Abul Khair Chairman, Editorial Board Syed Shamsul Haq Director, International Publications Zeenat Chowdhury Executive Director Nawshin Khair Managing Editor Tawhidur Rashid Fashion Editor Goutom Saha Deputy Editor Tanuva Aumia Khundkar Assistant Editor Natasha Rahman Sub-Editor Rubab Nayeem Khan Sub-Editor Raisa Rahim Staff Writer Aidha Cader Senior Designer (In charge of Graphics and Layout)
Jason Sabbir Dhali Designer Md. Mainul Islam Senior Marketing Executive Asif Iqbal Marketing Executive Iftekhar Alam Finance and Accounts Md. Abdul Alim Sales and Distribution Md. Manik Mollah
e-mail: icetoday@gmail.com editor@icetoday.net facebook.com/ice.today www.icetoday.net
On the cover
Model: Amile Styling: Aidha Cader Makeup: Nazrul Photograph: Riyad Ashraf Published by Abul Khair on behalf of ICE Media Limited. Printed at M.K. Printers189/1,Tejgaon I/A,Dhaka-1208 Editorial and Commercial office: Road 23/A, House 4, Block B, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh . Advertising, Sales and Distribution: 01711339587, 01819412035, 01775779315, 01812656961, 01614025340 Tel:+880255035336-8,+8809666773313
Tashfee stumbled into the musical path sans the guidance of a teacher; thus she chimed into the tunes of countless genres for the sheer love of singing. Eventually it led her to covering popular songs on YouTube. The singer quotes her musical career as something that happened ‘suddenly.’ “I used to sing songs by Beyonce’ because those to me were very challenging. It’s difficult to stay true the originality of the songs, but when you sing from the soul, everything falls into place,” says Tashfee, passionately.
One with
the soul
Photograph by Kazi Mukul
- By Rubab Nayeem Khan
While she dabbles in various genres, her enthusiasm in soul music played an integral role in her love for singing. Although she owes a huge part of her artistry to musicians like Ronnie James Dio, Jeff Buckley and Al Jareau, Tashfee also swayed to the melodies of artistes like Jill Scott and Naomi ‘Nai Palm’ Saanfield. As the saying goes ‘do what you love and love what you do,’ and Tashfee does right by it. From YouTube sensation to the vocalist of the jazz and blues band, The Blues Brothers for three years, she reckons how fruitful her experiences have been. “The only reason I’m here is because I enjoy singing. Even when I have to work for theme songs or jingles, it feels great because I get a lot of freedom in doing them. When I do things in my own way, people always appreciate it and that’s what I love about this industry,” she smiles. Tashfee’s powerful voice is indeed ‘on a roll;’ and in no time, it found itself among GaanBangla’s musical ensemble, ‘Wind of Change.’ Her first entry into mainstream music was by singing the songs Nouka Kine Debo and Pagla Ghora for the show. “To perform with not just eminent
Bangladeshi artistes like Pantha Kanai and Quddus Boyati but also being in the same platform as international bassist Mohini Dey and violinist Anna Rakita was very overwhelming for me,” expresses Tashfee. She also deems Kanai to be one of her inspirations from the Bangladeshi platform by saying “He’s a great drummer and a brilliant singer and songwriter.” Upon witnessing the music scene in recent years, Tashfee not only admires the level of appreciation people have for Bangladeshi music but also feels a great sense of pride in being part of this industry which churns out something new every day. “We have a huge fan base for good music and as a result the Jazz&Blues Festival was initiated in 2015. I had the privilege of performing for the concert and that for me was one of the best performances of my life,” she said cheerily. Moreover, Tashfee’s rush for music is satiated knowing that there are people who are open to new things which makes her very happy and hopeful for this industry. As a final note, the singer signs off by saying “I look forward to adding soul to anything I do.”
Advertorial
Say Hello to
Mango Mobile To fulfill customer’s demand in an ever increasing mobile market, Mango Digital Ltd has introduced a brand new mobile handset Mango Mobile. It offers its customers the latest technology coupled with modern and aesthetic designs. The handsets are budget-friendly and has a one-year after sale warranty. On top of that, there will be more than 20 customer care and 70 collection points throughout the country to ensure after sales service. Mango Mobile has launched a collection of 11 devices in the market with more models on the way. 5 of the 11 devices are smartphones and 6 are feature phones.
The available models are E50, E60, Galicia, Rio and the flagship E30. The E30 has an Octa-core 1.3 GHz processor, precision CNT cut metal body, 16GB memory, 3GB RAM, 13.0 MP fast focus rear camera, OV 8MP font camera, a powerful 2200 mAh battery and other exciting features. The E50 smartphone comes with a free VR headset The bar phones mango are K10, Fazli, W220, W250, W222, K20, all of which have features like audio and video players, FM Radio, Bluetooth, Torch etc. The Mango feature and smartphones are priced between Tk 850 to Tk 15000 respectively. Abul Khair, Managing Director; Muammer Husain Khan, Director; Owhab Khan, CEO; Toufiqul Alam, GM– Marketing from Mango Mobile were all present at the launching ceremony of Mango Mobile. The mobile market of Bangladesh looks promising and is growing rapidly, but the mobile phones haven’t reached a good number of people throughout the country as of yet. Mango Mobile is designing their devices in accordance to the people’s purchasing power and demand. To know more about Mango Mobile and their devices, please visit: Website: www.mangoinfo.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mangomobile
Plugged
Wearable gadgets, over the last few years, are no longer just fancy arm candies for the techno junkies but also for the fashion fads and the homes d’affaires alike. Having earned its place as a separate entity in the tech world, it also goes hand in hand with your personal style and personality. Here we have compiled 6 must-have gadgets that modern men should not live without.
Samira Shakur compiles 6 must-have gadgets that modern men should not live without
Wearable gadgets
we love
Huawei Watch One of the very few fitness tracking watches that is both dust and water resistant, the Huawei watch with a pocket friendly price-tag and a pragmatic design has definitely earned its place among the more mature market. What more can you ask for in a fitness watch that comes with all the necessary features to track your fitness goals all wrapped up in a plain-speaking outlook. If you have been biased about fitness trackers only been aimed at the younger, tech-savvy demographic then Huawei Watch will definitely change the way you think.
TomTom Spark
The most you could ask for in a fitness gadget – the TomTom spark is an all rounder wearable sports gadget that lets you track every move without the hassle of peeking into your phone at every minute. Its independent interface also means, it is not only limited to be used on the treadmills alone but also for other outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, trekking or even while swimming. The Tomtom is ideal for the wrist if you want to leave your cell phone behind while going on a cross-country hike. Its built-in memory lets you save ample music storage – just the perfect all-in-one gadget for the modern gentleman.
Fitbit Surge
Tag Heuer Connected
This is by far the most powerful of Fitbit gadgets the company has come up with. Aside from the usual features like GPS tracking, heart rate and workout stats monitor, Fitbit surge is also equipped with Smart Track multisport system that helps to record every form of workout from runs to rides automatically. Additionally, its wide touch screen LCD is bigger and better to manage everyday schedules for the on-time men of today. Available in three trendy colours, black, blue and in tangerine for the bold fashionistas, it is available for grabs at most of the gadget stores.
When you just thought smart watches can never get any classier – Tag Heuer Connected comes with the first ever luxury smart watch made with the greatest care of Swiss technology and from grade 2 titanium. Boasting of the best of both the ends – Watch Valley of Switzerland and the Silicon Valley of the US, Tag Heuer Connected is already a sellout the moment it hit the market earlier this year. Combined with all the essential fitness features and the immaculate swiss design, Tag Heuer connected has definitely set new standards in the wearable gadget market. If you have been worried about the imbalance between a savvy smart watch and a classic swiss watch then Tag Heuer Connected will not disappoint you – and it makes just about the perfect present for the hesitant smart watch users.
Jawbone Up3
Apple Watch
For those men who are only looking into something that appeals to the aesthetic wise but maximum on the performance part, then jawbone up3 is just the ideal gadget of your choice. Since the inception of the first of its variety, the jawbone Up1, one thing the company has kept consistent is its commitment to record fitness sports performance only – which means it only means business. Instead of a wide, flamboyant display, the jawbone Up3 possesses only subtle status lights for a display and a minimalist design makes it the most sought after gadget for the men on the run who are seriously looking after the calorie count.
Perhaps the most hyped up of all wearable gadgets would be the Apple Watch which successfully made an impact as soon as it hit the market. For those men who are not just concerned about the calories but eager to sport something that is also a symbol of taste and fashion, then Apple Watch is what you must be looking into. Although it’s on the pricier end of the stick, for just a fitness tracker, this gadget also lets you receive calls empowered with the IOS technology. It can also manage chores with the best personal assistant application, SIRI. What’s best is it comes in 4 different editions starting from the pocket-friendly sports version to the higher end Hermes version for those who prefer to make use of it simultaneously at formal dinners as well.
Chillout
Plated to
Perfection
Photographs by Kazi Mukul
Nahid Tabassum discovers Café de Partex, a quaint little eatery that whips up fusion meals Operating under the guidance of Chef de Cuisine, Reshad Mahmood, Café De Partex is a joint which celebrates the mashup of flavours. Reshad, who has aced the fusion cuisine in the industry for the last 15 years, took an oath to serve food that reflects sheer honesty. The star of the kitchen along with the friendly faces around reads the patron’s mind to deliver just what they need. Steaming fresh from his kitchen we lay out some of his best dishes. Romance with Romano (Tk 300) The "coffee shrub of Arabia" found its way to the Café after some variations by the chef. Romano hits your adrenaline with the freshness of lemon zest giving you a delicate flavour to sip on. Few drops of lemon juice and sprinkles of zest make it a very refreshing drink. Unlike lemon tea, Romano introduces to you a whole new genre of coffee. Gambas-Al-Ajillo (Tk 600) Fetched from the Spanish core, Tapas are without a doubt one of the best treats. The tangy garlic, herbed and garnished with green tempts you with its heart-filling aroma. Prepared with olive oil and sided with oven-fresh
garlic bread makes for a delicious pair. Add a hot creamy cappuccino priced Tk 250, and make this duo a delight for the foodies. Classic Chicken Burger (Tk 400) The heart of this burger is that the classic chicken patty is at its best. The chef fetches all the ingredients from his kitchen to pile up a classic dish with a perfect balance. A popular choice among customers, the burger has certainly enticed the foodies with its tantalising taste. Finish it off with a sip of their rich chocolate milk shake which comes at a price of Tk 250. Chef ’s Special (Tk300-350) Lemon rice with Stroganoff Chicken and the Prawn Grill in the german salad is one of tricks from the chef ’s bag to fall for. The smooth texture of the Russian curry and the light fragrance of the lemon rice don’t feel heavy to the stomach at all. The grilled prawn cuddled with the fresh German salad adds another angle of taste to this blend. This fusion of Russian and the German cuisine brings another best of blends on your plate as you take a seat in the café.
Obituary
A life well lived
A tribute to eminent litterateur Mahasweta Devi for her contributions in Bengali literature
Mahasweta believed in oral histories; in people’s stories; in folk knowledge. She wove these into her writing
F
rom birth to death, Mahasweta’s life seemed to be destined and she lived a life as per her dreams. Being one of the most revered writers of India, she won the hearts of people with her depictions and style of writing. One of the most influential human rights activists for the indigenous minorities and deprived people, Mahasweta Devi passed away on July 28 at the age of 90, in Kolkata. Despite winning the most prestigious awards and having her books translated into many languages her magnum opus was the Hajar Churashir Ma (Mother of 1084) that depicted the tumultuous time of naxalite movements, which saw the brightest young men of Bengal battle for the dream of emancipation and eradicate class difference, and Ironically Mahashweta became the ‘mother’ of al underprivileged people of India. She dedicated her life to achieve the rights of those most downtrodden and oppressed in her society- the migrant and the destitute, tribals and dalits, communities written off as
criminal and marginal and rather than being motivated by a party her movement actually became a symbol, a pathway of the struggle for freedom. Mahasweta documented and reported, organised and sued, and, above all, wrote haunting, powerful tales filled with unforgettable characters and mythic images. Most often her stories were based on actual events, as she claimed. Yet she found a way of lifting them to a mythic level, imbuing them with a universal relevance that rendered them literature rather than reportage. Mahasweta’s language traversed a wide range, incorporating styles of Bengali from all strata of society, including a hybrid Bihari-inflected dialect. Her vocabulary was wonderfully, wildly varied; her tone elliptical, terse, often drily sardonic; her humour, black. Hers was a tough, lean style, with unexpected passages of intense lyricism, like the woman she was. Mahasweta believed in oral histories; in people’s stories; in folk knowledge. She wove these into her writing. She walked and walked through villages and rural India,
familiarising herself with the structures of power and governance, identifying with those robbed of their rights, seeking material for her novels and stories. She found the so-called savage and backward people incredibly civilised and cultured. It was her own class, the bourgeoisie, who she despised for their hypocrisy and inhumanity. Mahesweta’s legacy is one which shines as bright as a light and it will diminish all that’s unfair in the world.
Raisa Rahim
Bent,
Not Broken
W The consequences are not constrained to the deaths of innocent people. The carnage that took place on July 1 at Gulshan’s Holey Artisan Bakery has left the survivors and those who were obliquely affected by it, in an indefinite hostage situation
With the recent turn of events, people in the crowded streets of Dhaka city look at each other with doubtful eyes, knowing that the terrorists walk among us. They are one of us; the vulnerable brother, son or lover whose weakness was scrutinised and moulded into something so vicious that it resulted in the death of innocent people and his own too. The consequences are not constrained to the deaths of innocent people. The carnage that took place on July 1 at Gulshan’s Holey Artisan Bakery has left the survivors and those who were obliquely affected by it, in an indefinite hostage situation. Fear isn’t the only thing the attack instilled in us. Of all nations, we know better than to get consumed by fear. However, it has nullified our mobility. Upon the arrival of the news from the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) banning public transport, except for a few rickshaws and AC buses authorised by them in Gulshan, Baridhara and Banani areas of Dhaka city, discomfort in commuting has emerged. The security has been beefed up for our wellbeing, but it has also slowed the city down in the process. The July 1 massacre not only left us handicapped in terms of commuting but has also put a damper in our economy. In the last few good years, restaurants in the city increased by the dozen, creating
employment for many male and female students and young people with a restricted financial background, who are either providing for themselves or their family. The Gulshan attack and the threatening videos that followed have made these restaurants potential targets, thus adding life hazard in their job description. On top of that, some private universities, the British Council and Alliance Francaise have announced that they will remain closed temporarily until they see fit to resume business safely. Such necessary yet rash decisions are tampering with the life of the country’s people and decelerate the country’s economic progress. Although print and social media are constantly updating us about the risks and measures being taken, it is inevitable that we still are in a hostage situation where, be it the aftershock or the discomfort in our mobility, we can’t walk the streets with the same contentment we did before this incident took place. But that shouldn’t be a reason to stay indoors or turn towards Islamophobia. On the contrary, neither should the adrenaline and anger make us jump before their weapons. Despite the chaos, there’s always a ray of light at the end of a dark tunnel. Instead of having our opinions pitted against each other, we need to stick together in order to survive the test of time.
Retreat
Head to
the beaches Photographs from Veet
We all have big dreams. However, only a few take a leap of faith and chase dreams. Raisa Rahim chats with the three winners of Veet Girls On-The-Go Veet, a power brand of Reckitt Benckiser, helps women radiate self-confidence and femininity by giving them beautiful, touchable and smooth skin. To promote beauty and self expression Veet launched Veet Girls on the Go in April. Thousands of applications poured in among which Karishma Roy, Pinky Peya, Jasia Sajed Rahman and Saima Arif got a chance to visit Bali and meet Veet’s brand ambassador Shraddha Kapoor along with all the other winning groups from India, Srilanka and Japan. The girls stayed at Conrad Bali, a magnificent resort located on the coast of Nusa Dua at Tanjung Benoa. They were welcomed with a Veet Masquerade Party, where they
met the other winning groups. The following day they were taken to the Tanjung Benoa beach for some fun water activities including banana boat, jet ski and donut ride. The trip was exciting, however, the four beautiful finalists were put under a tight schedule of 9.30am-11.00pm packed with activities and adventure. “Only in dreams one can imagine doing the things we did during our trip in Bali. Some dreams do come true I guess,” said Pinky Peya. Imagine spending time away in a different country without your parents and your close ones. Since the entire team made them feel at home, it didn’t feel like they were away from family until they had to come back to their empty hotel
“We learnt to deal with each mood swings and differences. But the best thing about us is that no matter how much we fought we were there for each other. We understood each other just the way a mother would understand her child”
rooms, expresses Pinky, further stating, “All the contestants were extremely friendly and the entire team respected and appreciated us. It felt like home.” On the other hand, Jasia expressed, “Those four days at Bali made me feel like a new person altogether. I loved how I learnt so much about living independently without parents. Also, it made me more confident as a person.” The trip gave these girls a platform to express and explore themselves. “I have learnt a lot about Bali, a city known for its magnificent beaches. Besides, I got a chance to learn about different cultural values with the contestants of other countries. Starting from brushing our teeth to going to bed, we took good care of each other the way we would our own family,” shares Karishma. With all the sweat memories, the journey was packed with emotional breakdowns as well. As the title suggests, the girls were literally on the go and under a tight schedule where they participated in several activities that strengthened their bonds and built confidence.
“We learnt to deal with our differences. But the best thing about us is that no matter how much we fought we were there for each other. We understood each other just the way a mother would understand her child,” shares Pinky. The girls felt it was an opportunity of a lifetime to be a part of this glorious event. Karishma concurs, “The fact that Bangladesh was participating in an all girls contest is what triggered my interest. It goes to show that our country has progressed in terms of realising the importance of girl power and it intrigued me to be part of this campaign.” The girls also got to meet Shraddha Kapoor who was quoted as being “a truly humble” and “down to earth person.” Shraddha shared her own girl-gang trip stories, danced with the winning costentants and ended the night in a blast. Being a leading beauty brand Veet believes in beauty, care and feminine self expression. Through this event, they have proven to the world that even through baby steps, the women of our country are slowly but surely forging ahead.
Grooming
Photographs by Kazi Mukul Model: Samir
Menssentials
No matter how sharp the suits, how Swiss the watch and how shiny the shoes, your hygiene is just as noticeable as the tie that completes your ensemble. Proper grooming practices ensure that the ‘look’ that is given by the man behind the apparel is as memorable. When it comes to personal hygiene, the following stepscan help you nail a dapper look Managing your mane If you style your hair with gel, you should switch to a styling paste or wax. These products are not as harmful to your hair and prevent thinning. Apply shampoo to your dry hair in order to remove any product; following a rinse, shampoo your hair again. Use an egg wash once a month which provides protein for your hair. Also, use a conditioner if you regularly swim as chlorine binds to the proteins in your hair and creates cuticles. Lastly, Avoid cold rinses because they restrict the capillaries that provide nutrients to your scalp.
Shaving grace Cleanse your face with warm water because hot water can dry the skin and lead to irritation after shaving. Giving yourself a day off from shaving, allows your skin to rest thus giving you a smoother finish. Remember to apply your shaving cream in a circular motion; this allows the facial hairs that grow in different directions to be easily removed. For a cleaner and smoother shave, add shaving oil to the gel, foam or cream that you are using. Lastly, use an aloe vera gel or moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated from frequent shaving. Skip the after shave. Scentsational Deodorants and scents are like articles of clothing; they layer with one another. Use an antiperspirant that has minimal fragrance- it will stop your body odour and allow your scent to stand out. If the particular cologne that you are using has a deodorant, layer it with that. Apply your cologne to the chest,
Ashfaque Zaman tells you how to clean up your act bicep and collarbone. This allows for a detectable scent that lasts throughout the day. Keep a travel size of your cologne because most fragrances leave the skin within a few hours. And finally, avoid using body sprays. These sprays do not control body odour effectively, they simply blend with your natural body odour to create a smell you would rather avoid. Skintastic For healthy skin, go for a face wash instead of soap. The skin on your face is slightly acidic and the alkaline nature of soaps cause drying and depletion from the skin’s natural protective barrier. When it comes to the eyes, apply an eye balm or cream as the skin around the eye is the most sensitive. Energise your skin with nutrient moisturisers that have caffeine and vitamin C; these products help to counteract the stress that takes a toll on your skin. For some final pampering, enjoy a clay mask regularly. Not only do masks remove dirt and oil from the pores, they improve the texture and the tone.
Boy Wonder
In conversation with Taskin Ahmed, the right-arm fast bowler for Bangladesh National Cricket Team. By Tawhidur Rashid
Taskin Ahmed is no different from the boy-next-door. The affability in his voice is quite palpable. But wait till the topic shifts to cricket and you can feel the undying passion he harbours for the sport. Taskin was at his very best in the match against England’s Under 19s in 2012. Hard and fast, the ball magically zoomed past the batsman and hit the wicket-keeper’s gloves, which made him an internet sensation overnight. The tall, fast bowler with high-arm action soon made it clear that he was here to stay and conquer our hearts. It was one of those rain-drenched monsoon evenings when we got a chance to have him for a phone interview. The idea was to know more about his philosophies
regarding youth, fashion, and challenges that life has to offer. As a boy, Taskin wanted to become a pilot, which soon was replaced by his desire to join the army. But eventually the cricket fever caught onto him and 2007 was the year when he first set foot on the Abahani field for an audition. However, his journey into cricket was not a walk in the park. Many a time, his evening classes conflicted with his practice in the field. And over time, Taskin became the cricketing star he is today. He is also pursuing BBA at American International University, Bangladesh. Although, it’s tough to find a balance between academics and career, Taskin chose to take the bulls by the
The amount of flak that ICC’s action got both nationally and internationally was a clear testimony of this young pacer’s popularity. However, the cricketer kept bursting into the domestic scene with his recent win at Dhaka Premier League 2016 for Dhaka Abahani. Photographs from Raw Nation
horns, “I never shun away from challenges of any kind,” he shares exuberantly. While his parents wanted him to focus on his studies, his fans were not ready to miss his spectacular cricketing skills. Despite the rising expectations, Taskin is working hard both on and off the field. "I hardly give up on anything," he says. As a sportsman, this trait is one of his greatest strengths. On the domestic front, he idolises the current captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza immensely. “It’s very difficult for me to stay away from the field,” states Taskin, who also had his share of ailments due to a knee injury that sidelined him for a long spell, à la Mashrafe. Further into the conversation, we shed light on his indictment on playing the T-20 World Cup with regards to the allegations on illegal bowling. “That moment was heart-breaking,” the bowler goes on to say, “however, I hope to overcome the ban. I have one more assessment this August and hopefully, I can play international cricket again soon.” The amount of flak that ICC’s action got both nationally and internationally was a clear testimony of this young pacer’s popularity. However, the cricketer kept bursting into the domestic scene with his recent win at Dhaka Premier League 2016 for Dhaka Abahani. His grand recognition and acceptance among the youth has made him a prime catch for endorsements and sponsorships. One of the most remarkable ones is from Raw Nation, a fashion brand that has already been proven to be a hit among fashion forward individuals. According to Taskin, being part of this visionary brand helped him represent his personality in a more stylish way. “It’s a great brand that the youth can easily relate to. The fresh designs and creative presentations are something I personally am proud to endorse.” He expresses his gratitude to the makers of the fashion line for choosing him to be a part of it. Taskin treasures the affection that he has received from his parents, and is thankful to Almighty for his blessings. He always advises his fans to be loyal towards their family. “Being honest to your near and dear ones will help you pave through any challenge in your life,” he shares. The enthusiastic athlete and ambitious player dreams that five-years down the line, he will emerge as the Captain of Bangladesh team. He wants to build a team with the best formation in all sectors of cricket and eventually win us the world cup.
Corporate Cafe
Building
a Legacy
Les Hommes
Photograph by Sakib Muhtasim
P
Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka has been a reigning name in the city’s hospitality industry. Salman Kabir, Assistant Director of Marketing and Public Relations of Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka discusses how the hotel still stands strong even after 35 years. Every hotel thrives on a particular service that they cater to their guests. Which services (food, spa, gym, corporate events) do you think has given Pan Pacific Sonargaon immense popularity among local and international guests? I believe that the one aspect which makes this hotel the first choice for guests is its ability to host grand corporate events. Be it a meeting of 50
people or a big convention or conference for 500 guests, clients can choose from our extensive selection of lavish indoor and outdoor venues which are primed for any occasion customised to the host’s need. The multiple banquet options under one roof have garnered massive popularity amongst both, the local and foreign guests alike. Our aim is to deliver seamless event management. Aside from that, a majority share for that success goes to our sales and catering team. Our dedicated professionals are certified and trained to be creative and think for and on behalf of the meeting organisers to ensure their event is a successful one.
Sonargaon Hotel is managed by the Pan Pacific Hotels Group, a leading hospitality brand in Asia and the Pacific Rim, situated in key cities of distinguished destinations offering upscale accommodations and services
Once guests have booked an event with us, we will do right by them to provide luxurious settings alongside exquisite menu options. Pan Pacific Sonargaon has been in the hospitality management business for more than decades. How much has the PR strategies changed for the hotel after the rise of upscale hotels in Dhaka? Over the last decade or so, there has been a string of new five star hotels coming into the city. The obvious strategy here would be to target several key media outlets. As the Head of Public Relations, my job is to present our hotel in a positive image as a way to increase PR for my hotel. Circulating new updates, posts and articles each week is a relatively convenient way to socialise with not only new, but our old loyal clients and business connections as well. But you also have to post fresh content and always keep your hotel promotions in the race with other competitors in the city. Overall, our goal is to come up with a schedule of topics geared to events on our annual calendar – seasonal festivals or holiday occasions or any relevant local key events hosted by the hotel. As a growing form of communication, online PR strategy today is a fast and effective way to reach our large guest base. Apart from hospitality, hotels in Dhaka are known for events centred on business, lifestyle and recreation. What kind of events generate revenue for the hotel? Ceremonial events such as weddings and the likes usually generate great revenue
for the hotel. For years now, our hotel has housed several huge weddings and the reason for it being the fact that the name ‘Sonargaon’ is now a brand in itself. Our team of catering specialists is known for creating a spread for magnanimous weddings. From September to December, the wedding season is in full swing and that’s when we have the most traffic in the hotel, business wise. In terms of administration, what global standards do you incorporate for Pan Pacific Sonargaon? To what extent has it been efficient in ensuring customer satisfaction? The hotel is managed by the Pan Pacific Hotels Group, a leading hospitality brand in Asia and the Pacific Rim, situated in key cities of distinguished destinations offering upscale accommodations and services. In the context of Bangladesh, one must look into the prime factors that the guests consider while choosing a hotel to stay. We have found that the utmost requirement that foreign travellers base their decision to choose a hotel here in Dhaka is the safety and security standard of a hotel. And to ensure the highest customer satisfaction, Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka implements the highest security standards. The level of surveillance in the hotel is quite extensive. The property has more than 100 surveillance cameras installed in and outside the building as an illustration of the importance we place on life and safety matters. Whether it’s a short or long-stay business trip, we ensure that our environment gives our guests the confidence that security is factored into their stay.
As the Head of Public Relations, my job is to present our hotel in a positive image as a way to increase PR for my hotel Salman Kabir Assistant Director of Marketing and Public Relations. Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Dhaka
L
ike most countries, Bangladesh has its fair share of harassment issues. Although there are rules and regulations against the act, there are many amongst us who live in fear of their oppressor. Barrister Asif Bin Anwar from Grey’s Chambers elaborates harassment and the consequences that have been set forth by the judiciary system in Bangladesh.
Benazir Alam sheds light on the laws and legal implications revolving harassment.
Barrister Sarjean Lian
Barrister Syeda Faiza Hossain
Barrister Anam Hossain
Q
What actions constitute as harassment? What are the punishments? The common English definition of harassment is ‘aggressive pressure or intimidation.’ The main legislative provisions in relation to ‘harassment’ are contained in The Penal Code 1860, Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance 1976 and The Nari-O-Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain, 2000. Penal Code 1860: Penal Code 1860 does not specifically address harassment. However, the following provisions relating to intimidation and assault have been commonly used to deal with harassment complaints. Section 354: Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outage her modesty Whoever assaults or uses criminal
Barrister Belal Chowdhury
force to any woman, intending to outrage or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby outrage her modesty, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both. Section 507: Criminal intimidation by an anonymous communication Whoever commits the offence of criminal intimidation by an anonymous communication, or having taken precaution to conceal the name or abode of the person from whom the threat comes, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, in addition to the punishment provided for the offence by the last preceding section. Section 509: Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman Whoever, intending to insult the
modesty of any woman, utters any word, makes any sound or gesture, or exhibits any object, intending that such word or sound shall be heard, or that such gesture or object shall be seen, by such woman, or intrudes upon the privacy of such woman, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both Nari-O-Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain, 2000: Nari Section 10 of The Nari-O-Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain, 2000, which includes “Whoever, to satisfy his sexual urge illegally, assaults a woman sexually or makes any indecent gesture, his act shall be deemed to be sexual oppression and he shall be punished with imprisonment for either description which may extend to seven years but not less than two years of rigorous imprisonment and also with fine.” In section 10(2), the law defines sexual harassment as, “if a man, with a view to fulfilling his illegal sexual desire outrage a woman’s modesty or makes erotic gesture, such act of the man will amount to sexual harassment.”A rigorous imprisonment ranging from two to seven years and additionally an indefinite amount of fine is rewarded for this offence. According to this definition, sexual harassment is an offence that is committed by not coming with actual physical contact to the victim. Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance 1976: Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance of 1976 first addressed eve-teasing directly. Section 76 of the ordinance defines women teasing as, “wilful and indecent exposure of one`s person in any street or public place within sight of, and in such manner as may be seen by, any woman, whether from within any house or building or not, or wilful pressing or obstructing any woman in a street or public place or insulting or annoying any woman by using indecent language or making indecent sounds, gestures, or remarks in any street or public place.” Women-teasing is punishable with a maximum one year of imprisonment, or with a maximum two thousand taka fine, or with both. Mobile Courts: Mobile courts are available to take legal action against those who are convicted of stalking and harassing a woman. That person would be
suffering one year in jail or pay a fine of about Tk 5000 or both. What are the implications / punishment for harassing on social media? The preceding discussion highlights the legal provisions that deal with harassment. Despite ‘social media’ finding no explicit mention in these provisions, the law have accommodated cases of ‘social harassment’ as well. However, it is pertinent to mention that because of the precarious nature of this specific medium of harassment, government intervention has been slow. Cases can be filed under the existing Women and Children Repression Prevention Act 2000 (amended 2003), Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Act 2006 and Pornography Control Act 2012. However, there is no comprehensive law or section adequately dealing with sexual harassment in social media and other digital platforms. Consideration of the right of freedom of expression, potential abuse of complaint procedures, protection of individual rights and control mechanisms over social platforms, and plausible ‘flood gate’ policy concerns have seen a cautious development in this area of law. It's a fine balance between wanting more regulation of social media and wishing it to remain a free space where people can speak their minds The Section 57 of the Information and Communications Technology Act 2006 states that anyone can be penalised for “any false and obscene posts online” for a maximum of 14 years and maximum fine of 1 crore. However, it does not define what constitutes ‘obscene.’ The offence is non-bailable. Publication of Obscene materials is also punishable under the Pornography Control Act 2012 and carries a punishment of two years of imprisonment and shall be accompanied by a fine of 1 lac taka. Victims can also lodge complaints with Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Commissions. The Bangladesh Computer-Security Incident Response Team (BDCSIRT) deals with complaints on harassment through Facebook, mobile photo or video, threatening by email and website hacking.
#BetterYou
Education
A Brexitential
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Crisis By Antony Rahman
On June 23 2016, the people of the United Kingdom (UK) voted in a referendum on whether or not to leave the European Union (EU). A surprising 71.8% of eligible voters (over thirty million inhabitants of the UK) took part, and chose by a margin of 52% to 48% to secede from the EU. This turn of events is popularly referred to as 'Brexit', an amalgamation of the words Britain and exit. The move was shocking to the large majority of people, and will have tremendous and far-reaching political and socioeconomic consequence for the UK. Just days after the results of the vote were made public, the panic caused by Brexit resulted in steep losses for the stock market. The value of the pound has plummeted, from 1.51 for the U.S dollar, to just 1.33. Not only has the Brexit immediately caused apparent problems for the economy of Great Britain, but it may also have an impact on the future of the country’s educational system. One of the perks of being a member of the EU is that UK universities receive anywhere from 10% to 15% additional funding, which will not be the case after the Brexit is finalised. This will significantly cut back on any research opportunities provided by these institutions. After the process of leaving the EU is complete, EU students applying for UK colleges and universities will no longer be
entitled to receive the discount on tuition that all EU member countries are afforded. This may cause a huge drop in enrolment of European students, however if pound continues to devalue against other forms of currency, the cost of living in the UK for international students will be significantly cheaper. This may result in an upswing of international students’ interest in studying in the UK, especially students from South East Asia. None of these changes will come into effect till after 2017, however, as such there shouldn't be any huge paradigm shifts for students who have already enrolled previously. All of this is simply speculation and extrapolation based on current information however, it is subject to change. Just like the Brexit referendum itself, the situation in Great Britain is prone to unpredictability. In all likelihood though, no matter what the final outcome is for the UK as a whole, it is undeniable that its top quality institutions and faculty will remain extremely lucrative to students pursuing a higher education. While students from the EU may now be leery of studying in the UK, and with good reason, students in Bangladesh should keep an eye on the Brexit proceedings, as this may end up being a more fortuitous time to gain admission to a prestigious UK institute than any time in recent memory.
Money
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or stay-at-home moms, establishing a secure flow of income from the comforts of your home is not only exciting but relatively simple too. The stock market offers various lucrative opportunities for women. Let’s find out how to go about it the right way. Choosing a side It is really important to decide whether you want to be a trader or an
Bring home the dough By Monowara Chowdhury
investor. Selling and buying shares within a few days is counted as a trader rather than an investor. An investor has a long-term plan. An investor analyses the fundamentals of the company before buying the shares and then holds onto them for a number of years. In return, over time, he/she will get dividends from the company, perhaps as bonus shares and the share price will also increase. A trader is not that far-sighted and will continuously buy and sell shares. In that case, a trader’s license is required for which you will have to attend three training sessions from Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and will also have to sit for an exam. Upon passing the exam, you have to practise trading for some time before you set foot in it. Awareness is key Women often feel intimidated about participating in the stock market and that fear can be curbed by being thoroughly informed. Learn the basics of the share market, such as IPO (Initial Public offering), secondary market, market analysis and so on. It’s always safe to play with IPO first as there is less risk associated with it whereas the secondary market is always a bit risky. Shamoli Akter, a trader in stock market completed training from DSE first and then she started to trade in 2013. She mentioned that, as she is already working in the SIBL stock brokerage house, she has witnessed quite a good number of homemakers trading and investing. They are well supported and advised from the brokerage house regarding
investment and trading. For those who want to dive into the stock market, DSE offers free courses and seminars for beginners. Must have checklist First of all, you will need a trading account from a brokerage house. If you don't have an online trading account, you will then have to call your broker or sub-broker and tell them which shares you want to buy or sell. Start with a hypothetical account Once you are ready to start trading, play the game without real money being involved. Anindita, trader at SIBL brokerage house, tried it out for around three months before parting with hard cash. She began to make note of the different suggestions made by fellow traders and took note of how those suggestions performed over time. "Record successes and failures as if you were trading with real money," she advises. Managing Director of Modern Securities Ltd, Khugesta Nur – E Naharin, has been performing outstandingly in the stock market for almost 25 years now. She always encourages women to participate, especially homemakers. According to her, “Homemakers get really motivated once they learn to earn profit from the stock market, which in turn gives them a sense of financial freedom.” She also added that the stock market ensures a workspace for women who can’t manage a full time job. “All you need is to have a minimum amount of capital and knowledge to explore the stock market,” concludes Naharin.
Start with a hypothetical account Once you are ready to start trading, play the game without real money being involved
Decor
Innovative
Interiors
H
ome Pro delivers quality and stylish furniture. They consistently strive to provide its customers with the best values, unique collection and convenient service. From kitchen dĂŠcor and modish fittings to walk-in closets, Home Pro offers home and decor solution for every corner of your house. Home Pro is the wing of a reputed and recognised architectural firm called Cascade Architects Limited (CAL) initiated by Architect Nazrul Islam Barson in 2002. Home Pro Plot 15, Road 27, Block J, Banani
Lavishly
Luxurious
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You got a new divan for your living room, a new dinner table for the dining space, a new stove for the kitchen; what have you missed out? Washrooms being one of the most essential spaces for every living unit don’t always get an updo every now and then. However, it’s never too late! For those of you who are keen on revamping your washrooms, Bravat is the one-stop solution for your sanitary fittings. Introducing high end products ranging from sinks to showers, Bravat goes all out when it comes to serving you with the very best. Recreate your washrooms with sleek and stylish bath fittings from Bravat and make your house a home.
Photographs by Kazi Mukul
Bravat House 6, Road 6, Block C, Banani
Makeover
The Techno
Touch
Inspired by the recent Met Gala show, makeup artist Nazrul together with ICE Today gives you the vibes for the future Model: Emily Make up: Nazrul Photographer: Riyad Ashraf
Monochrome Magic Eyes: Base colour eye shadow is applied on the lids. White eyeliner is drawn from the inner corners along the creases, stopping at the midpoint. The white-eye liner is further drawn on the upper lash line extending out and along the inner lids. A fine line of black eyeliner is used to define the lids. Cheeks: Sliver base shimmer is used on the upper cheekbones and beige tone blusher on cheeks. Lips: Bronze lipstick is used on the pout. Hair: The hair is pulled to the crown and secured into a bun.
The Dark Knight Eyes: Silver eye shadow is applied below the brows and at the tips of the inner corners. Deep grey eyeshadow is blended across the lid. A coating of mascara is used on lashes. Cheeks: Brown and beige blusher is blended across the cheeks. Lips: Deep brown lipstick is applied on the lips. Hair: The hair is parted at the centre and pulled towards the nape of the neck. It is then tied into a ponytail and twisted into a knot.
The Art of Gold Eyes: Gold eyeshadow is used as highlighter below the brows. Black eye shadow is blended along the lids. Black eyeliner is used on upper and lower lash lines. Forehead: Gold eyeshadow is applied across the forehead. Diamante stud tikkas are pasted to define the golden forehead. Cheeks: Gold and beige blusher is used on the cheeks. Lips: Natural tone lipstick with a touch of gloss is used on the lips. Hair: Hair is parted onto the left and pulled to the back. It is braided in to an unstructured plait.
Run the town! Fatima Faheem gears up with Adidas’ latest run-ready sneakers from Bata
Photographs by Kazi Mukul
Adidas’ brand new kicks are a steal for all you fitness junkies out there. Its ultra comfort footbed for the soles will keep you on your toes all day, every day. If running’s in your agenda, these shoes are lightweight, breathable and just what the doctors recommended for your feet. Working out never looked this good; grab em while you can!
Culture Vulture
Weaving
a Dream
O
On June 24-25, Nadz & Sabs presented their Phoenix Collection for the first time in Australia at the Australian Bridal Fashion Week (ABFW) in Sydney. Designer Nadia Khan said the mix of resort wear and cocktail dresses in ABFW’s honeymoon couture category would showcase strong colours and intricate beading. “I draw on timeless materials and crafts to create something aesthetically interesting for today’s woman,” Khan said. According to ancient mythology, the majestic bird Phoenix obtains new life by rising from its ashes, symbolising renewal and time. The collection strongly consists of silk, so its enduring history is not surprising given its amazing properties. Silk is luxurious, environmentally-friendly and keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter. It is
said to be good for your physical and spiritual wellbeing.” Khan mentioned that she loves textile crafts such as hand-beading and embroidery and the label’s collection would combine these timeless luxuries in contemporary styles. “The collection is embellished with exquisite hand beading and intricate thread embroidery, adapting age-old artistries for modern sensibilities,” she elaborates. She further explains that each of their garments is individually hand crafted by couturiers and one style can take up weeks and weeks of beading and
The collection strongly consists of silk, so it’s enduring history is not surprising given its amazing properties
detailed work by hand. Co-founder and marketing director Sabrina Rashid said the label believed in maximising the use of natural fabrics such as silk, organic cotton, cashmere and wool. “We are strongly opposed to polyester and wearing ‘plastic’ frequently since it is not good for us. Synthetic fabrics should be used as little as possible,” Rashid said. She also adds that natural fabrics allow our bodies to breathe as opposed to polyester. Rashid finds it very surprising that polyester is the fabric of choice for even high-end designer brands though the lower cost is not necessarily passed onto the consumers. The evening wear label was founded in 2013 by the two friends; the duo met socially and developed a great friendship. Their passion for beautiful clothing and shared vision to introduce more embellishments in mainstream fashion gave birth to this enterprise. “We think embellishments should not be confined to the red carpet,” Rashid said. Moreover, the duo aims to make their work more widespread for everyone.
The moment you step foot into the restaurant, you will feel like you’ve been transported into a prodigious setting along with a sumptuous round of dishes.
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Trouble finding a food joint at Chittagong? Fret not; Regalo is a new restaurant that you should definitely swing by when you’re visiting the port city. The moment you step foot into the restaurant, you will feel like you’ve been transported into a prodigious setting along with a sumptuous round of dishes. Regalo, in Spanish translates to ‘present.’ To draw a vivid picture, the restaurant resembles a traditional cafe in a downtown city in the West. Once you stroll in, you will be awestruck by the urban theme
that is adapted in the decor. The interior is stunning and has a straightforward stylistic layout. You will find this eatery an ideal setting for a fine dining experience. Since its inception, Regalo has become a popular hangout spot amongst the youth in Chittagong. Their hospitality will certainly make customers feel right at home. Regalo’s menu boasts of creamy soups, crunchy nachos and many more delicious secrets you should get your hands on. Despite being new, the restaurant braves challenges such as blending flavours; so far their culinary experiments have been deemed commendable. Regalo’s Nachos Grande, filled with cheese, ground beef and chips, is completely out of this world. To make things way more interesting, it is served with a velvety sour cream and guacamole. Pumpkin Soup being their signature dish is a fresh and healthy meal that leaves one full to the brim. Although the restaurant could easily fall in the bracket of upscale eateries, they have kept their prices reasonable. At Regalo, any dish you order would leave you licking your fingers and coming back for more. The foodie experience in Regalo is like no other, it’s a promise.
Word on the street
Tweak it up a notch Nusrat Jahan Pritom, picks out sharp threads and more from London Touch for fashion forward men
Photographs by Sakib Muhtasim
Be it casuals or accessories, London Touch has all your favourites and more. Located in UAE Moitri Complex, 45 Kamal Ataturk Avenue, the store boasts of quality men’s fashion wear and accessories imported from countries such as Singapore, USA and Germany. We’ve put together some of their finest to create an ensemble perfect for shindigs with friends.
Last minute plans with friends is like the cherry on top of a stressful work week. Look fab even after work hours with some of these gems from London Touch.
Flamboyant Feet Save some styling for your feet as well! Gucci’s brown shoes or the colourful Ferragamo shoes should help complete your look.
Bright and Bold Summertime calls for colours; so you can’t possibly go wrong with a bright yellow Boss shirt, a blue DKNY shirt or a deep purple Canali shirt.
Esscential Don’t forget to dab on some Scuderia Ferrari Black before heading out.
The Perfect Pair A deep blue jeans such as this one from Billionaire suits the occasion best. You could also opt for cotton pants such as this stylish one from Bally can bring both comfort and panache in your styling.
Tick Tock Classy and casual wrist watches like Ferrari adds a little oomph to your outfit. *You can also find staples like Montblanc belts or Prada Wallets to complete your collection of accessories. (prices upon request)
Space
Age Fashion In recent times, creating and catering fashion has been made easy with the advent of technology. To such an extent that one can find something like 3D printed dresses across the globe. Apart from that, fashion shows like Digital Fashion Week has also taken the global market by storm. As far as catering goes, web portals have made life easier by introducing online shopping to avid buyers. Be it an outfit or a gadget, happiness is just a click away. So it goes without saying that an industry as large as fashion has flourished immensely with the introduction of digital marketing. In a rendezvous with local and international marketing giants, ICE Today discusses how the local fashion scene emerges with the rise of technology.
An Imprint
on Fashion By Ashfaque Zaman
From rose hems to elaborate organza trains, later swinging into Swarovski crystal and laser cut dresses, high fashion has always given remarkable attention to detail. With the most skilled weavers, the tapestries that designers would envision have come to life after weeks and months of toiling. However, technology has allowed designers to create the most intricate of masterpieces. 3D printing is changing the landscape of fashion one click at a time. This phenomenon was first introduced during fashion week in the style capital of the world, Paris. Designer Irina Tosheva, a Macedonian designer, used the printer to create her ‘Rita’ collection for the 2013 fashion week. Tosheva used the 3D printer to create complex designs; these details allowed her dresses to have a unique flare that every designer envisions. Additionally, she was able to create customised jewellery with each piece. The collection featured a range of staple pastel colours and involved 200 hours of a printing process as opposed to a collaborative effort that would have taken weeks. The precision that is provided from the technology is unparallel to any traditional method. The use of 3D has then escalated from the runways of couture week to the Oscars of the fashion industry, the MET Gala. This year, international model, Karolina Kurkova wore a dress made by
IBM Watson and Marchesa. Though Marchesa has been a name that is synonymous with fashion for decades, their collaborators have initiated a step towards the world of fashion from computer technology. For the Manus x Machina: Fashion in the ‘Age of Technology’, Karolina was the epitome of how technology has gone beyond office and gadgets and into fashion platform. Karolina’s dress was made with a conductive fabric and 150 LED lights. The Watson Tone Analyzer would alter the color of the lights in accordance to the reactions and sentiments of Karolina’s twitter followers. From connecting people across the world, technology and 3D printing has started the interactive platform for fashion lovers. This very innovation will bring the runway to every household with the prospect of printed clothing within one’s home. Though the printing of clothes is in its preliminary stage, many companies are working to make it more accessible to everyday clothing. They look to a future where printer can recreate the texture of many common fabrics such as cotton and polyester. Currently, the clothing presents a degree of rigidity that makes it rather impractical. But we have gone from ink blots to incredible fashion; technology has enraptured the runways of the world and is walking its way to everyday fashion.
Is Futuristic
Fashion Here?
Tanjimul Haque Ecstasy
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Due to the advancement of technology, fashion in the international market is changing rapidly. Tanjimul Haque, Chief Designer and CEO of Ecstasy and Mehruz Munir, fashion designer and founder of Zurhem discuss the rise of high-tech fashon.
From 3D printed dresses, to water-free printers for textile dyeing, clothing is also being used to capture kinetic energy. Although the pace is slow, this advancement is surely making its way to the Bangladeshi fashion industry. Tanjimul Haque from Ecstasy is hopeful that due to this advancement, fashion brands paired with technology are going to experience a shift in their core values. “Considering the impending global and national situation it would be fictitious for me to blindly state when this technological advancement will pave its way into Bangladesh.” Nonetheless, he is hopeful about 3D printers and other technological advancements making its way into the
market. “Provided we foster the environment for this change, this technological application will turn the fashion industry inside out,” he exclaims. Mehruz from Zurhem shares that thought. “From computer-aided design illustrations, to robots used in factories to steam iron a garment before it is sent off to the retail outlets; we have already embraced technology to help us produce more efficiently and accurately in Bangladesh,” he says. Mehruz says that the international fashion market and the designers are still exploring ways they can implement technology directly and aesthetically into a garment. “There is still a very small number of people around the globe who have embraced the amalgamation of tech and fashion,
but I believe that in a few years consumers as well as fashion designers in Bangladesh will do the same.” Technology is having game-changing effects in the fashion industry. Its real-life potential to change the way clothes are manufactured and designed is trending all over the world. “I am still waiting in hopes for the fashion industry to embrace technology in a meaningful way. Other than wearable products and brands,
process. “We develop computer-aided illustrations before we finalise a design, make and grade some of our patterns using CAD and also rely heavily on communicating across all levels of the production team using various technologies. I am also very interested in implementing technology in the way our clients are measured when they come in to order a new suit. Hopefully we are going to introduce it in the next couple
Keeping up with the progression of technology in international fashion, the hurdles we are facing now to keep up with change will slowly disappear given that we let technology take its flow. I am not seeing an intersection of technology that is having an influence on the design methodology and thereby having a meaningful impact on the way we think about clothing,” shares Tanjimul. He feels that we should be able to incorporate technology to transform design methodology. “Most software are only digitising traditional workflows. Before we can have meaningful conversations about new production technologies and materials, we would need to embrace the digital design processes as an artistic medium and not only as an environment for engineering and optimisation,” he asserts. At Zurhem, they often primarily focus on an optimal level of craftsmanship that is only possible if the products are made using hands; however, they have thoroughly implemented the use of technology in every step of our designing and development
of years,” Mehruz reveals. Keeping up with the progression of technology in international fashion, the hurdles we are facing now to keep up with change will slowly disappear given that we let technology take its flow. “Currently, there is a lot of fuss about biological materials and so on. However, I do not see it being compatible in a responsible way other than factories producing toxic waste combined with the additions of industrial wastes as well.” Tanjimul feels that we would need to make reasonable infrastructures and not pieces of bric-a-brac. “Quite frankly, we do not live in a time for concepts and drawings. Rather, it is a time where everyone can shape the flows of material production and commerce. I would be more inclined to synthetic biology and am interested in working with 3D printing.” According to Tanjimul, the internet is a
revolutionary agent and has coded method of creation and reproduction which would be able to give a platform for synthetic biology to use its potential and give designers space to explore. “Technology stretches what we can do and what we can make, thus we need to evolve in a way that would bring out contrast in order to show us the unseen possibilities of technology's integration with fashion,” he comments. At Zurhem, Mehruz is constantly looking for ways to improve their production chain by using technology of different sorts, and they also actively try to create garments that are interactive and can do much more than the garments we wear today. “Unfortunately, there are not enough resources available to designers here, and there are also not much scope for collaborations with a group of curious and intelligent engineers who will be interested in exploring the end outcome that will come out of the merger between fashion and technology.” On a final note, Mehruz says likeminded people with very different skill sets need to contribute in their own way to generate innovative and extraordinary ideas which will in return let technology and fashion result in magnificence. Mehruz Munir Zurhem
The Virtual
Shopping Malls
Farasha Khan Sayeed converses with Benjamin de Fouchier, Mirajul Huq and Mustafizur Rahman Khan, leaders of popular web portals, daraz.com.bd, zuumzuum.com and bagdoom.com
Benjamin de Fouchier daraz.com.bd
With the advent of online shopping websites it’s become increasingly easier to rest our shopaholic muscles. Even until a few years ago, the concept of online shopping was a foreign idea in Bangladesh and one that showed very little progression. Then came these fantastic online retailers reinventing the whole idea of shopping and sending shockwaves through the retail market. Benjamin, Managing Director of Daraz, a leading online shopping destination shares his views. “People living in cities outside of Dhaka and Chittagong have the purchasing power but not the physical access to buy whatever they want, whenever they want. Daraz is a solution to that. No matter where one is – within the borders of this country – a customer will have access to a huge level of assortment from big and small brands alike and different price ranges on our website,” he informs. Bagdoom, a one-stop lifestyle platform aims to give customers and entrepreneurs both the scope to reap benefits through their web portals. “Considering millennials as our target audience, 99% of all our employees are millennials. So our team understands the
mindset, the needs, and the aspirations of millennials. Our extensive quality control ensures we not only look into the tangible aspects of a brand or product but also the style and design value of each. Other than the proven brands within our merchant portfolio, we have given exposure to innumerable aspiring entrepreneurs over the years,” shares Miraj, CMO at Bagdoom. Keeping the customers in mind, web portals have ensured personalised services for easy shopping for their customers. ZuumZuum, an exclusive online fashion retailer, launched their Experience Shop platform in Uttara and Mirpur. “These omni-channel venture fully integrates with its website and introduces many new prospects such as – trial then buy, return online orders to store and many other opportunities for customers ,” emphasis Mustafiz, co-founder at ZuumZuum. “We also noticed that consumers tend to rely more on p e r s o n a l i s e d communication and prefer to talk with sales representatives before confirming their online purchase,” comments Mustafiz.
With the influx of so many web portals for fashion and lifestyle, we wonder if Bangladesh can soon have its very own version of net-a-porter. Benjamin points out that they emphasise on the layouts Daraz creates in order to present Bangladeshi fashion and trends. “Net-aporter is definitely an inspiration DFashion BD looks up at. But I believe we still have a long way to go. We don’t believe in following the trend, but rather setting the trend.” Miraj also shares “What shoppers crave is the right sort of fashion advocacy. We have launched our own fashion blog ‘Bagdoom Lounge’ which gives a good read to a wide range of fashion receptive audience.” Bagdoom stays on top of the game by keeping up to date with fashion publications and blogs, as well as local merchants who are more enlightened in the field. “Alongside the Amazons, Alibabas of the world, brick-and-mortars have proven that with the aid of services like digital marketing; technology tapping into the most qualified audience; segregating to demography; sociography; geography etc, that digital ad spend succeeds all
objectives within a brand’s conversion funnel,” states Miraj. Mustafiz elaborates, “As consumer habit has changed dramatically, our marketing team focuses on highly personalised marketing as well. To make our loyal consumers feel more privileged we offer loyalty programs, discount offers, cash back offers etc.” The use of social media is one of the major ways online stores are promoting themselves, as the reach in the market runs quite deep through its trends. Daraz focuses on highlighting different trends and new collections the local fashion houses come up with, by frequently doing marketing shoot and videos for the customers to see. “We are also planning to organise a one of a kind fashion show very soon, within the upcoming months, in collaboration with big fashion brands,” he reveals. “As the old cliché goes, rather than re-inventing the wheel, we in Bangladesh Mirajul Huq bagdoom.com
can just follow the most proven and relevant footstep to serve our consumers’ best with such digital capabilities. The emergence of local ad networks, SEO specialists, and content marketers alongside our existing creative resources is taking our digital market to the next level,” Miraj states. One drawback is the risk that social media marketing carries. “Unless you have dedicated resource to manage your social media accounts several times a day, brands may miss the chance to engage with their target customer group. For example disgruntled customers may publish negative comments that are not always removable and can cause reputational risk for the brand,” apprehends Mustafiz. In order to solve this problem, Mustafiz is trying to differentiate their brand by focusing on marketing communication, and curate best quality products which is seen as affordable fashion. “ZuumZuum marketers
Mustafizur Rahman Khan zuumzuum.com
segment the product as per gender; festivals and occasions like Eid, Valentine’s Day and Pohela Falgun and as per seasons like summer and winter. Many local fashion brands have started to launch their fashion products exclusively through online sites. For example a promising local brand named Rise launched their premium denim and chinos collection through ZuumZuum,” comments Mustafiz. Besides the obvious advantages of online shopping such as avoiding traffic jams and saving time, Benjamin clarifies how online shopping also affects the physical fashion market. “Nowadays people also have more access to customised fashion products online, which was never so readily available offline,” he says. “Different styles and different price rates are also widely accessible and because of that customers get a clear idea on what a particular product’s price range should be. Hence it becomes difficult for fashion houses to exorbitantly price a normal t shirt, or any other product for that matter. Customers feel better informed and updated before they make a purchase and more than that, they also get an idea of all that is new and upcoming in the Bangladeshi fashion market, under one roof. And for this, offline stores are also bound to shape themselves according to the customers’ needs and requirements. Being online gives them access to a lot of analytics to track such behaviour which is hard to do otherwise.” The online markets have in various ways not only made shopping more convenient in the mainstream fashion industry, but has also reshaped the way it operates and continues to do so with innovative use of digital marketing tools such as social media and online portals. It is bringing products to our doorsteps at the click of a mouse while reforming shopping norms for the whole fashion sector.
Travel
Italian food varies from region to region and is diverse, subtly flavoured, using only fresh produce. Overall the food is simple and rustic. Today’s Italian cuisine is cucinapovera, or ‘peasant cuisine.’ So tales of Medici gastronomy unfortunately has not passed down but its art has and that is a feast like no other. Italy has a lot of sightseeing from its historical sites, museums, cathedrals, Piazzas and Palazzos, which often means lunch, is “on-the-go.” Across the country, the staple is gelato which is perfect for hot summer months. You’re truly spoiled for choices from chocolate to fruit to nuts, the flavours are unimaginable. Breakfast is often a sweet croissant with coffee. So it’s at dinner when you can sit down and enjoy culinary delights from antipasti all the way to desserts.
Taste of Roma Roman culture is a mix of the past and present. Known as the ‘Eternal City’ it is an amalgamation of religion, art, fashion and architecture. Today, Roman cuisine is based on traditional dishes with Jewish influences. Pasta is often made with butter, olive oil and cheese. Chicken is hardly eaten with preference given to other meats instead. Artichokes and zucchini flowers are used abundantly, either fried or tossed into pastas and pizzas. When looking for a fiery alternative, try the Buccatiniall’Arrabbiata. Roman cuisine uses plenty of anchovies and makes a great substitute for pepperoni. Gallic is seldom used in the dishes. One of the best places to dine is at Trastevere with its cobblestone streets and medieval Piazzas. When sightseeing in Rome, grab the square cut Pizza know ‘al taglio; for all the energy you need to continue on.
C
Italian ulinary Trail
As the summer vines down, Aidha Cader shares her gastronomic experiences in a country famous for pizza and pasta!
Vatican City From your itinerary in Rome, one entire day will be spent visiting the Vatican City. The Papal State holds some of the most iconic works of art. No amount of time is enough to fully grasp the extent of Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco at the Sistine Chapel or Leonardo da Vinci’s St. Jerome in Wilderness. Then there is the breathtaking Giovanni Bellini’s Pieta and Raphael’s Annunciation, just to name a few. Like elsewhere in Rome, the Vatican City is no exception when it comes to its food culture. In this part of Italy, stuffed pasta is not a staple however, Roman style ravioli stuffed with cheese is the popular choice.
Under the Tuscan Sun Tuscan cooking has done away with its exotic medieval past where peacock, pike and eel were dressed in wonderful sauces made of date vinegar and abundant used of spices. Today it’s all about fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the natural flavors in each of its simple dishes. Unlike other parts in Italy, Tuscans seldom eat pasta and when they do it is simply in tomato sauce or ragu. However, they are famous for serving variety of dishes made of offal cooked in medieval style terracotta pots; that is if you have the stomach for it. Florence is world renowned as the renaissance city. It hosts its famous sons, Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Galileo, Da Vinci, to name a few. It’s a city where the art lives on the streets and stores, in galleries and museums, in public squares and medieval palaces, in churches and offices. The city is also famous for Florentine bistecca made from the Chianina breed of cattle, which we managed to also find at local “halal”restaurant near the Ponte Vecchio.
Pack in a day trip to visits cities close to Florence, which would include Pisa, San Gimignano and Siena. It is a great way to see the Tuscan countryside with its sun-kissed hills dotted with olive trees, grape vines and the occasional farmhouse or villa. Slow down the pace and savor the rustic, earthy foods. Bread is the king in this region. This old tradition of unsalted bread has passed on. Try the ribollita-a vegetable and bread soup which is a classic comfort food. Popular antipasti include bruschetta and crostini; served with an assortment of topping with the liver pâté being the most famous. In Siena, indulge in a slice of Panforte-a traditional dessert containing fruits and nuts that dating back to the crusade era. Also with its rich pastures and high-grade milk, Panna cotta desserts are also popular.
The City of Carnival Venice is an alluring city, build on mud-banked islands amidst lagoon waters of the Adriatic the city. With its Moorish and Gothic architecture, winding canals and endless cobblestone streets, gondola rides will take you beyond the pages of timeless love stories. Venetian food culture is intertwined with the sea. A popular fish entrée is Baccala’ Mantecata. Made with cod, olive oil, garlic, and parsley and then blended to a creamy consistency it is served as Cicchetti, similar to Spanish tapas, in Venetian bars. Polenta is the mainstay among Venetians. Rice is also popular which arrived with the medieval Arab trade. Venetian food uses spices such as cinnamon cloves and nutmeg more lavishly than other parts of Italy. Another classic is Sarde in Saor, meaning ‘sardines immersed in flavour’ which is an antipasto of sardines with onions and a must-have snack for every traveller.
Seaside Splendour One of the most popular and beautiful coastlines of Italy is the Amalfi Coast. Located in the Campania region of Italy, it’s home to Napoli, Sorrento, Capri, Positano and Ravello. The coloured facades buildings that ridge the valley, beating against the pristine blue waters of the Mediterranean is
breathtakingly serene. Hire a boat and drive it along the coastline stopping at the many islands. This is the best way to make the most of an ocean adventure. The region is renowned for its buffalo Mozzarella, lemons, oranges and all thing seafood.
Bonus Recipes for Our Readers The dough: Dissolve 7g quick-acting yeast and 2 tsp sugar in 250ml warm and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Mix 500g of flour and a tsp of salt together in a bowl. Add in the yeast mixture and form dough. Work in 2 tbsp of olive oil and knead until the dough is smooth. Turn it onto a floured surface and knead till it is elastic. Place it in a bowl, cover with a dampcloth and leave it for an hour to double in size. Toppings: Blend 400g canned tomatoes with1 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tbsp dried oregano, salt and cayenne pepper. Roll out the dough and cut into 35cm x 25cm rectangle and place it on greased baking trays. Spread the tomato sauce evenly. Sprinkle 200g grated mozzarella and your choice of toppings. (Extra cheese or smoked salmon or sliced par boiled potatoes) Place in a Pizza preheated oven at 240c for 15-20 minutes until ‘al taglio the base is cooked and the top layer is golden.
Dice 2 courgettes at set aside. Cook 100g each of mussels and clams in a pan of hot water at high heast, until the shells open. Strain the water and set it aside. In a separate pan, brown one sliced onion in olive oil. Add 400g-risotto rice and let it toast for a few minutes. Add ¼ cup of white wine vinegar mixed with 3/4 cup of green grape juice into the rice. When the rice is dry, add a ladle at a time, of 2 liters of seafood broth. Toss in the courgettes, 200g prawns, 200g white fish cut into cubes and the cooking water from the mussels. Keep adding broth, little by little, until the rice cooked; sprinkle 50g of grated Parmesan cheese and serve.
Rissotto al frutti di mare
Events
Apex donates to the underpriviliged On June 19, senior officials from Apex Footwear Limited visited a school, run by SEID (Society for Education and Inclusion of the Disabled) in Mohammadpur, for the underprivileged children with
disabilities and donated shoes to the children under their care. SEID is a voluntary development organisation which has been working for the social inclusion and promotion of rights of underprivileged children with disabilities since 2003. Currently, SEID is providing services to more than 450 underprivileged children with disabilities including pre-primary and special education, education materials, therapeutic and referral services, vocational training, food and transport facilities through its community based schools located in different parts of Dhaka and its suburban areas. Syed Gias Hussain, Additional Managing Director and Rajan Pillai, Chief Operating Officer of Apex Footwear Limited distributed the shoes to the children. The teachers of SEID along with Ranjan Karmaker, Chairman of SEID, and other officials from Apex also graced the event.
Spotlight on the Cannes Predictions Reel A quarter century after Donald Gunn initiated Leo Burnett’s annual Cannes Predictions tradition, Bitopi Leo Burnett is proud to present the 29th Anniversary Edition of the Cannes Predictions Reel, for the first time in
Dhaka. What started as an internal initiative to share some of the world’s best TV commercials with employees in LB/Chicago gradually became an industry event in different parts of the world. Today it is showcasing the world’s most creative work in a single compilation. The Cannes Prediction Reel with a track record of more than 84 percent accuracy, spotlights a short list of campaigns with strong likelihood of winning a prestigious Lion among tens of thousands of submissions. The work was selected by Mark Tutssel, global chief creative officer of Leo Burnett Worldwide, creative chairman of Publicis Communications, and jury president of Direct at this year’s awards festival. This collection represents the year's most imaginative and innovative ideas from all corners of our industry. The creation of the Cannes Predictions list involves a yearlong evaluation of brand work that reflects industry-driving trends. Leo Burnett’s analysis this year arrived at the following six trends from the past year: From Innovation To Invention; How Many Impressions Make An Impression; Unicorns As Media; Making It Personal; Authentic Truth; The Art Of Storytelling By Animation.
Reckitt Benckiser takes winners to Bali Reckitt Benckiser Bangladesh Ltd organised an overseas trip to Bali in Indonesia for the winners of its “Distributor Flying Club-2015” program. The trip was from July 17-20. RBBL’s Regional Manager S. M. Abdul Karim accompanied the distributors to the trip.
SSG’s prize-giving ceremony for retailers
SSG organised a ceremony to recognise its retailers by distributing prize among them. Harun Ar Rashid, DMD; Aftab Mahmud Khurshid, CMO; Sakhawat Hossain, Head of Sales; and other high officials of the company were all present at the event.
Samsung launches Galaxy J2 2016 Samsung Bangladesh today announced the launch of a new addition to its highly successful Galaxy J series of smartphones - Galaxy J2 2016 with two new innovations Turbo Speed Technology and Smart Glow. Galaxy J2 2016 is a follow up version of the Galaxy J2 launched in 2015, which is currently Bangladesh’s top selling smart phone. Galaxy J2 2016 has been re-engineered, re-designed and re-loaded with industry first features such as Turbo Speed Technology (TST), a revolutionary innovation which results in superior device performance, and Smart Glow, a next-gen colour LED notification system for the convenience of the user. TST is a revolutionary innovation which results in superior device performance including native apps loading up to 40% faster than devices with double the RAM. J2 2016 is also an addition to Samsung’s 4G enabled smart phones portfolio.
Zeil’s Shop opens a new showroom Zeil’s Shop Ltd has recently opened a new showroom at Progoti Shoroni, Shahazadpur in Dhaka. The shop provides its respected customers with excellent merchandise and focuses on new arrivals of different brands for mens, ladies and children. Zahir Uddin Tarik, Chairman and M.A
Quader, Executive Director of Zeil’s Shop Ltd, formally inaugurated the shop. Monirul Morshed, Retail Sales Manager; Iqbal Hossain, Merchandising Manager; Md Faisal Haque, Advertising and Store Development Manager; Shumon Ahmed, MIS Officer; Mahfuzul Islam, Area Manager; and other officials of Zeil’s Shop Ltd along with distinguished guests were present during the opening ceremony.