ICE Today, November 2015

The Wedding Special

Alluring Bridals

editorial The year's almost coming to an end. However, the end of a year is also a doorway to new beginnings for many. Drum rolls, shehnai and a feastthat's right; the wedding season's about to start in full swing. For those of you, who are preparing to tie the knot, worry not! We’ve put together an issue that's got an eclectic ensemble (Alluring Bridals, p.33) you need for that perfect wedding. And for the ones who’ve already sealed the deal, this season can serve as an auspicious memory. Before we jump on the celebration bandwagon, we take time out to acknowledge that aside from having a glamorous wedding, the occasion is about the union of two souls and that is indeed the heart of every marriage. In the course of time, the social institution has experienced its much needed facelift, for better or for worse. Issues like Prenuptials (Un-tying the Knot, p.28), as we believe, will soon become more contemporary even in our society.

At the same time, we look into the evolution of trends; just like the institution of marriage, our cultures too have seen different paradigm shifts. Bangladesh is a country which boasts of having a huge pool of young citizens. To cater to their needs, organisations have come forward to disseminate the right kind of information and provide the platform to raise their voices through different cultural activities. In light of that, we converse with danseuse Lubna Mariam, CEO of EMK Centre, M.K Aaref, and Director of Goethe- Institut Bangladesh, Judith Mirschberger in our Cover Focus. (Catalysts of Culture, p.84).

Flip through the pages to find out exciting new offers and updates of various products and services of daily use. Nevertheless, it’s a big day for you and that special someone, so make sure you’re all set to walk down the aisle with poise and grandeur. After all, love is the one thing that never goes out of style!

The Magazine That Reads You Closely Vol 12 No 11

November 2015

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

Senior Sub-Editor Tamzidur Rahman Sub-Editor Rubab Nayeem Khan Staff Writer Aidha Cader Senior Designer (In charge of Graphics and Layout)

Jason Sabbir Dhali Designer Md. Mainul Islam Head of Marketing Lucky Begum Assistant Manager, Marketing Farah Tani Finance and Accounts Md. Abdul Alim Sales and Distribution Md. Manik Mollah

On the cover

Get our official app on your android and iOS device

e-mail: icetoday@gmail.com facebook.com/ice.today twitter.com/ice_today www.icetoday.net 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, 01684570791.

Tel: +8809666773313

Models: Kobita, Meghla, Mishu Wardrobe: Benarashi Kuthi Jewellery: Revaz by Mahedy Chowdhury Makeup and hair: Farzana Shakil’s Photographs: Riyad Ashraf Location: Residence of Mahedy Chowdhury

Contents November 2015

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InThe Buzz P. 12 Internet Glory Conversation with the YouTube sensation Xefer Rahman P. 14 Have a ball Dissecting designer Biplob Saha’s brand new venture, Qubic Entertainment P. 16 Artist on a mission Igniting awareness with graphic designs P. 18 Walking the Savoury Plank A review of the delicacies at Anchor Bell and Coentro P. 22 Balancing career and motherhood How to ace as a working mother P. 24 Paper. Glue and Scissors Looking into Alia Kamal’s Papier Mache’ exhibition P. 26 Un-tying the Knot Pre-nups: what you need to know P. 28 The Awe-inspiring Altar Radisson Blu Chittagong Bay View’s Wedding fair was talk of the town P. 30 Is it really happily ever after?

Aidha Cader tries to understand the gravity of marriage

P.28

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Contents November 2015

Features

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Alluring Bridals: The Bridal Weddingalogue

P. 34 Joie de vivre Sciccoso and Nakshatra Gold shook hands to bring you immense joy on your big day P. 40 Set Your Troubles Aside Karma Salon and Ayurveda Centre’s bridal packages P. 44 Soul Searching The Zaheer Abbas’ closet is a treasure trove of unconventional wedding collections P. 50 Fuelling your Stamina The perfect fitness regime before the big day P. 52 Regal Appeal Panam and Purobi Jewellers present traditional wedding looks P. 60 All Dolled up Makeup accessories from daraz.com and banglashoppers.com P. 42 Saree Soiree Look stunning in those six-yard long drapes from Benarashi Kuthi. Ornaments from Revaz by Mahedy Chowdhury to add extra sparks P. 68 You’re a Firework The art of intense makeover for your D-day P. 74 A Class Apart O2 brings the classic men’s wear worth swooning over

P. 80 On the Flipside The woes that entail from child marriage P. 90 Three Cheers for Art An exhibition celebrating art works of three generations of artists P. 92 In Search of Hope M. Jahidul Islam fighting the good fight for PWDs P. 94 Hitting the Mark Interview with Unilever’s Brand Building Director, Zaved Akhter P. 96 Stylise your Home Satori and Charuta’s elegant furniture collection P.98 Spring in your Step New York based celebrity Chef Nazim Khan stuns the world P. 101 The Art of Pitha Perfectly crafted pithas you can cater on various wedding rituals P. 108 All that Jazz An Exclusive interview with the one and only John McLaughlin, the Jazz Legend P. 110 Heaven’s own Island Honeymoon Destination: Drinking in the beauty of Sri Lanka P. 116 Unilever BizMaestros Young minds competing to reach the crux of innovation P. 120 Events Reviews and news of numerous events and openings

Cover Focus P. 83 The Catalysts of Culture The minds that are redefining culture and engaging youths in Dhaka

P.101

Buzz ICE Today

A reel of the latest lifestyle updates

Fatima Faheem and Fatiha Faheem chats up singing sensation Xefer Rahman

{ Tunes }

With her upcoming album produced and composed, Xefer Rahman is all set to sizzle.

She went from being a YouTube performer, with viral hits like MJ’s Dirty Diana cover, to a singing sensation for mainstream music with swift progress.

“From being a drop out to a passionate singer and then an employee in an advertising agency, I wasn’t sure where to go next,” shares the young singer. “Then I went on a break, made a music cover video and on seeing that, Fuad Al Muqtadir knocked me. It took me by surprise.”

Her debut album, having been produced by Nagib Hawk, is comprised of ten originals awaits release. “Nagib believed in me and made me believe that I can do it. The debut album was a big step for me as an artiste.

Even when making covers, he helped me sing in Bangla, as opposed to just English songs which are my forte. Practicing in Bangla helped me explore a different area I hadn’t before.”

Although Xefer does not have any specific choice of genre, she finds pop and rock to be well within her comfort zone. Furthermore, the singer has a knack of welcoming criticisms. “Appreciation is nice, but after a certain point it becomes boring. Once in a while when you see a negative comment it spices things up. I see it as something that helps me grow,” says Xefer on the topic.

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NOVEMBER 2015

Have a ball

Event Management

In The Buzz

{ { 14

Photos – Courtesy of Qubic Entertainment

Mehrin Mubdi Chowdhury catches up with Biplob Saha as he walks us through his event management company, Qubic.

Looking for the perfect destination wedding, garden parties, bridal showers and more? Then look no further! Qubic is the answer to your plight.

This event management company is just another successful venture by the maestro –Biplob Saha, the renowned fashion designer and creator of Rang.

“I wanted to do something different for the country,” says Saha. “This is not just a regular event management company; we also provide a platform for the emerging artists of our country. Qubic Entertainment offers grooming and etiquette sessions trying to boost self-confidence, refine skills and help build professionalism in models and other upcoming artistes of the media. This platform has been created with the vision of doing

something for Bangladesh’s media industry. With years of experience in mass media it was inevitable that I give something in return to my nation.”

When asked if Qubic Entertainment had any presence in the corporate world Saha eagerly replied, “Yes, of course we do.

We are continuously dealing with various companies helping to brand their products, services and business. Our proposition begins from targeting customers to the placement of billboards at the right place during the right time. We develop comprehensive promotional marketing plans with strategy driven programs for all our corporate customers.”

Biplob Saha, being a leading name in the fashion world of Bangladesh must be able to use the accolade to his advantage. When asked how much this lead helps him with Qubic he said, “Fashion offers many opportunities. Our love and affection for elaborate weddings and other sorts of colourful entertainment originates only because we love fashion. My background in this industry helped me a lot to easily understand the ideas provided by customers. I do a lot of costume designing for any kind of occasion. Qubic also provides all sorts of wardrobe solutions – be it personal styling or coordinated dresses for guests at the events.

Furthermore, we at Qubic also offer fashion designing courses for those who want to build a profession in this sector.”

All in all Qubic entertainment is a one stop solution to all kinds of queries, be it celebrity coordination, choreography, photographic solutions, interior designing, wedding planning, fashion designing or building a platform for the upcoming artistes of our country. This isn’t just your average event management, it’s an entire production which offers you the very best.

Creative Nook

Did you

?

Royal had started a modest initiative to create anti-littering awareness by placing small trash boxes inside CNG auto-rickshaws. The idea was for travellers to not chuck their wastes onto the roads while on the go.

on a Artist mission Reasons to follow Royalerchobi

In The Buzz

{

“The thing is I love ideas. I didn’t want to make art for art’s sake but to give back to society. It seemed like a great idea. I was inspired to start Royalerchobi as a means to address personal difficulties I had to face living and travelling in the capital; life in Dhaka can become very hectic due to very small problems.

Using my own troubles I tried to envisage what the populace has to put up with day in and day out.

Royalerchobi doesn’t have what one would call a colossal following but it does create some awareness. I chose art as the method to make people aware is because that is what I do – that’s what I’m good at.”

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He doesn’t shy away from addressing issues most would consider inconsequential such as littering, excess honking, etc.

(Yes, many of us do consider such things to be mere regularities as opposed to full-fledged nuisances) He boldly sheds light on current political mishaps through his art.

Royalerchobi displays exceedingly daring measures of creativity!

Mominur Rahman Royal works as an art director for an advertisement agency by day. During his free time he creates art addressing social issues which he then shares on his Facebook ‘Royalerchobi’. His works incorporate exceedingly creative uses of typography and thought provoking imageries to convey social messages.

His is a cause to admire.

Royalerchobi

Eat Out

alking the Savory Plank

Ashfaque Zaman sets sail for a delectable taste of the sea at Anchor Bell and Coentro The gentle sounds of waves as they crash against the shore, the distinctive scent of salt in the atmosphere, and soft sand grazing one’s foot and toes. The ocean and beach are an experience that is like no other. The scenic ocean may be hundreds of miles away but Anchor Bell brings you a menu of superbly fresh seafood. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Steamed Fish in Lemon Sauce This succulent fillet of fish, red snapper or betki, is slowly steamed in a spicy lemon sauce and garnished with mushrooms diced spring onions, chilli and parsley.

Breaking down in your mouth instantly, the fillet is moist and supple. The tangy and spicy sauce can be adjusted to your preference, but for now, the hotter it is the better it tastes.

Photographs by Farhan Ahmed

Seafood Salad

Crab Rangoon

By the looks of it, it’s just a regular crispy wonton, but don’t let that fool you. This is a modern take on the wonton; the rangoon is a crispy pastry with a delicious secret you will discover in your very first bite. The creamy centre oozes of cream cheese and juicy crabmeat. A rich appetiser, which is best when paired with the chef ’s special chilli sauce, it’s a meal on its own and it will lure you to go for seconds and even thirds.

Crisp and refreshing with every bite, the salad contains steamed crab, squid, shrimps and basa. The tender seafood is complimented with crisp bell peppers, cucumber, tomatoes, leeks and spring onions. The salad is dressed in sesame oil based dressing, which is nicely balanced with mint to cut the intensity of the flavourful elements.

Anchor Bell also offers an assorted range of set lunch menus that would cater to the seafood and meat

Set Menu A

In The Buzz

{

Starts with seafood rice with a tempura battered seafood medley.

This is followed by a squid stir-fry with mushrooms cooked in a basil sauce. The definitive Thai flavours are counterbalanced with the strong sesame seeds. The Bangkok vegetables are a stir-fried vegetable with the chef ’s staple Thai sauces. It has garden-fresh Chinese cabbage, capsicum, tomatoes, green sprouts and bean curds. A Thai style fried chicken, which is both sweet and savoury.

The chicken is coated in a tempura batter, which allows for more of the chef ’s secret spices to permeate.

{

Anchor Bell 55 Shonim Tower, 2nd Floor, Shah Makhdum avenue, Sector 12, Uttara

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In The Buzz

{ {

While on our way to the restaurant, picking the right dish to satisfy our stomachs sometimes proves to be a predicament.

Should we go the healthy route and have fish or indulge in red meat? Fortunately Coentro resolves this dilemma by allowing you to have it all. Coentro has introduced the Spaniard idea of tapas, small portions of your favourite dishes. Last month they introduced their tapas with an allyou-can-eat-festival, and these bite size meals will be featured on their menu, satisfying anyone’s enormous craving.

Potatoes Bravas You cant have enough of potatoes! This is a fulfilling serving of fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce, cheese sauce and pico de gallo.

Rib Eye Parella Tender pieces of rib eye steak with a garlic butter mash. For a meaty surprise, cut into this and let the juices overflow onto the mash. The smooth texture of the mash balances out the flavours of the rib eye.

Pollo Relleno On a lighter note, let this dish prepare you for a bigger meal. Juicy white chicken stuffed with feta and spinach is topped with cheese sauce on a bed of fluffy mash. The more cheese, the better!

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Beef Sirloin A classic dish for the meat lovers, this wont disappoint you.

Perfectly cooked strips of beef sirloin with a side of house salad and you are sold.

Lamb Chops Although tricky to prepare, Coentro excels in their lamb chops. Accompanied with the flawless compliment of a yoghurt based mint sauce and you will be tempted not to just dig in with your bare hands.

Seafood Paella If you want everything in one exciting bowl, pick this one. Aromatic, flavourful rice with white fish, prawns, clams and squid and you will be in a seafood frenzy like no other.

Each tapas is true to the complex and unique flavours of the Mediterranean. Coentro also stays true to the flavours of their signature fruity margaritas, which are made from fruit purees that are nothing short of biting into the fresh fruit.

Coentro Areeb Tower, 48 Progoti Sarani Baridhara, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Photographs by Kazi Ahnaf Aquib

Tantalising Treats

&

Parenting Column by Natasha Sabrin Khan

Balancing careermotherhood In The Buzz

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Motherhood isn’t easy; neither is being a successful working woman. When these two difficult roles collide, things become pretty hard for a woman. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on one for another – if you plan smart, it is possible to find a balance between the two.

Arranging a good caregiver It is crucial to arrange a good caregiver before your maternity leave ends. Check references of a nanny before appointing her and let her take care of the child for a while before you go back to work.

Install CCTV at home if required and ensure that you leave emergency contact numbers with the nanny. Even if you lock the door from outside, do leave a spare key with one of the neighbours so that the baby and nanny can come out in case of an emergency. If a trustworthy nanny is not available, a good daycare centre might be a better option.

Breastfeeding arrangements If adjustments can be made, then it is best to continue breastfeeding (may be alongside formula feeding) for at least first six months. One year old Faizan’s mom, who works in the finance department at Grameenphone says, “I have nursed before going to work, during lunch break when I came home and throughout the night.” If coming home during lunch is impossible, carry a breast pump and breast milk storage bags and try to pump at mid day. If possible, send the milk to the baby or else you can store it in the office fridge.

The stored milk can be used for next

{ 22

day’s feeding.

Support system at work It is important to have a support system at work in terms of having understanding and helpful colleagues.

Bear in mind that you might need to take off if your baby falls sick, so try to be punctual and meet all deadlines when things are well at home. Try to offer help to other colleagues with their projects if you can manage to – this will keep you in a better position if you need someone to complete your work for you when you need time off. Create a support network among female colleagues who have children of their own and can sympathise with you.

Cooperation with spouse It is of utmost importance to have a good understanding with your spouse and it is crucial that you do not vent out your frustration and tiredness on him.

Try to involve him in the process of taking care of the baby and share baby care responsibilities on alternative nights. This might be a time for you both to bond with the baby.

Use your commute time efficiently Use the time stuck in traffic to make important phone calls, prepare your to-do list or to take a much needed nap.

Be tech friendly and set reminders and alarms in your smart phone to keep you on top of things.

Be patient Most important of all is to have patience and remember that things get easier and better both at work and home as the child grows- and children grow incredibly fast. So, take a deep breath

Time out

Photographs by Ashraf Uddin Apu

Paper, Glue, Scissors!

On your way to stardom

{

I

In The Buzz

f you are looking to groom yourself in modelling acting and dancing, Lina’s Grooming Studio will surely draw your attention. Fashion photographer Sakib Muhtasim and Lina Khan model and choreographer have launched Lina’s grooming studio on 16th October. Aspiring actors and

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essed up hands, glues galore and fragments of paper; the two day Paper Maché Sculpting Workshop at Banani’s Longitude-Latitude 6 by artist Alia Kamal brought out the nostalgic feeling of childhood in the participants while the young partakers experienced a fun way to convey their creative expressions. The artist, a strong supporter of recycling has an outstanding reputation for being spontaneous and creating magnificent art-forms with cast-off materials.

models will be instructed by senior models and actors along with other facilities. Portfolios and videos will be handed to the students as a part of their curriculum. Apart from acting and modelling, students will also be given lessons in dance as well.

The studio has partnered up with gyms, swimming clubs, clothing outlets who have agreed to provide special discounts up to 50% for the students. For

admissions, it’s Tk 15,000 in total which can be given in three instalments.

Aspiring to maintain international standards in their services and providing people with a safe and nurturing environment, Lina’s Grooming Studio aims to give a platform via which aspiring actors and models can groom themselves to become media personalities.

House no 300/b, Road no 14, Block A, Bashundhara

Musing

Ashfaque Zaman walks down the aisle of a more controversial binding agreement.

In The Buzz

{ {

Whether you’re jumping the broom, circling the fire seven times, or borrowing something blue, marriage is a universal concept that comes with its own set of unspoken conditions. In an instance two lives share the betters and worse, the health and sickness, and what is mine becomes ours.

However, the institute of marriage has changed with the times, just like many spouses do as the dissolution of their marriage continues.

Katrina Radmicher, an heiress to her family’s papermaking business, which is worth £100 million, faced a tumultuous divorce with her ex-husband Nicolas Granatino. Granatino, a French investment banker, whose net worth was £6 million, claimed that he had hampered his career as a researcher at Oxford 26

Un-tying the knot

University as a result of their marriage.

In accordance to their prenuptial agreement, Granatino claimed that he would take none of his ex-wife’s fortune in the case of the dissolution of their marriage. During their 2006 divorce case, Granatino and his lawyer claimed that he should receive £5.85 million of their cumulative fortune.

Given that they had been married in Germany and the divorce settlement had occurred in England, the terms of the prenuptials existing conditions were rather problematic. Consquently, Granatino’s claims were overturned; he received £1 million and £2.5 million in funds for a house, which he would return to their younger daughter reaches the age of 22. Was his marriage to Radmicher the penultimate to regression of his career or financial stability?

A majority of people would not think twice to nullify any argument as to the practicality of a prenuptial, deeming it unromantic in the grandeur of marriage and love. Isn’t the idea of marriage about love and not financial motive? Therefore, the idea of signing a paper to prove the dissolution of such ulterior motives should not be considered taboo.

Marriage can dissolve within a course

of time due to numerous reasons which include infidelity, lacking a vision of success, losing one’s self identity or loss in intimacy with financial reasons being the cause 45% of the time, the predominant reason for divorce according to the New York Times.

As one walks into the binds of marriage their mindsets are calm, centred and sound, a state in which the best decisions are made. Consider this and the unknown outcome of matrimonial life; the enraged parties of a divorce only further lengthen this painful process sometimes involving children to witness the ordeal.

Signing a prenuptial is simply a mature and practical mannerism to resolve any ‘what ifs’, in the case that a marriage goes awry. Settlements of financial belonging, monetary assets and other respective conditions are settled whilst both parties have an unperturbed state of mind. One can think of it like insurance; our cars and homes may be in pristine condition however is it a crime to protect something we have earned? If the marriage may falter due to the wrongdoings of one party, the other should definitely not have to suffer. Is it really cynical to protect the one constant in our lives, ourselves?

RSVP

The Awe-inspiring Altar

Radisson Blu Chittagong Bay View recently held a wedding fair to promote the occasion with full grandeur. The ballroom can accommodate 1,450 guests in banquet style, conference for 1,600 and receptions for 5,000 guests, a perfect venue for those couples who are planning to hold their wedding reception these coming months. Couples can choose from their distinctively designed packages Blu Diamond, Blu Gold, Blu Sapphire that starts from Tk 1650 to Tk 2250 per person or even create their own wedding package.

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Your It List

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Culture Vulture

Is it really happily ever after?

With the wedding season kicking in, everyone seems to be preoccupied with getting their wardrobes sorted out and gearing up for the celebrations.

However, I was taken by surprise when I recently found out that a childhood friend of mine was seeking separation after being together for over fifteen years. This prompted me to look at the changes that are taking place within our matrimonial society.

Out of love

Staying within the fringes of mainstream cultures, Aidha Cader, ICE Today’s culture connoisseur has inculcated an appreciation for food, history, travel and art beyond her comfort zone.

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Most couple’s marriages are not exactly as it appears on the outside and can get complicated at times. Clear boundaries are set and rules are noted down.

However, in recent years, marriages are failing not only because of infidelity, domestic violence or illicit addictions but also due to compatibility factors.

“A deal made in your twenties may not serve you so well in your forties,” says Amira who got divorced after fifteen years. She also points out that as careers, children and family comes into the picture the couple’s perspectives change over time. The spouse exposed to the corporate world may not be mutually compatible with his ‘stay-home-wife’. Her exposures, on the other hand, are likely limited to her

kids, mothers she meets at school events or the domestics. He may advance both intellectually and socially and not be at par with her or vice versa.

“It’s brutally unfair but this is the reality,” she adds. Socialising peer groups, education, religious ideologies and careers are primary reasons why couples evolve into separate entities within a marriage. “We simply grew apart. We want different things in life. I couldn't live with him anymore,” are common phrases many divorcees say.

“You also cannot expect your spouse to be your everything,” says Nitu, a friend of a divorcee. Be it, love or arranged, marriages are a practical

arrangement. ‘He’ll be a good provider’ and ‘she has good childbearing genes and family values’ are other such factors taken into consideration when making the decision to tie the knot. “We have overly romanticised the notion of marriage,” adds Nitu. No one can guess the pace of the journey as couples embark on their nuptials. At the beginning, everything is new and exciting, responsibilities are few and sex is still a discovery. However this euphoria will not last forever let alone five to six years. For many couples, when the initial romantic fever subsides it signifies the end of love and eventually an end of their marriage.

For Sima who married at eighteen says "I was too young and we simply couldn't make it work. We became different people from who we were when we first met.” She also adds that most Bangladeshi men feel insecure when the wife is seeking an education or career that will exceed his current qualifications. Another misconception is that having a child will hold a marriage together. Such advice from her peers was often told

to Sima who eventually not only had to deal with a divorce but a bitter custody battle as well. “This is a dubious and an unwise myth; often having a child doesn’t fix the marriage and in most cases it will only make the situation worse,” she adds.

The Day After Women seeking better education and careers are also constantly redefining their self worth. They are no longer only someone’s wife or someone’s mother. They see themselves, and

rightfully so, as equal partners with equal empowerment in careers and at home. However, many of the women I spoke with feel the men aren’t keeping up to this mind-set and look for a trophy wife or moderately ambitious partners with boundaries set by partners. Such attitudes may have to change if we are to see more progressive family bonds.

Another key factor for women is the stigma attached in being a divorcee.

For divorced women, with or without children, to remarry is probably one of the hardest social problems they face today. Even if the men are agreeable the family pressure will prevent him from proceeding further with the relationship. For the likes of Sima, a wrong decision made at eighteen years has scarred her entire adult life. It’s hard to change society and social dilemmas overnight, yet as we move towards reformist ideologies for both men and women it is best to leave unfound stigmas along the wayside.

Marriage is a vital part of our social fabric and it’s important that the men in our society embrace the change that is streaming in or else more young children will grow up with a single parent. Creating a whole new generation that may not know what a marriage is all about.

All names have been change due to confidentially agreement with those the author has spoken to.

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The bridal

weddingalogue

Alluring Bridals Allow yourself to be swept off in a whirlwind of ceremonial fantasy with our inspiring wedding collection. Be it a lehenga, suit, sherwani or sari, what you wear for your wedding should speak volumes of your personality.

Being draped in that glorious sari is an art for the brides. Let’s not forget about the jewels which make her look and feel like royalty. For the grooms, getting a traditional yet dapper look in a sherwani takes quite an effort. Our fashion portfolio celebrates the wedding season with vim and vigour, bringing you the best of bridal collections from the finest clothing lines in the city!

Casting a romantic spell, find our bridal weddingalogue in between our fashion portfolios which has everything that shall champion the gloss of your marriage ceremony. Immerse yourself in this issue and let us help you start your journey to marital bliss!

Joie de vivre

Model: Shaon Priyanka Wardrobe: Sciccoso Jewellery: Nakshatra Gold Makeup and hair: Farzana Shakil’s Photographs: Riyad Ashraf Props: Eskay

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Portfolio

A magical makeover with these swoon-worthy pieces will make you the queen of unconventional bridal choices. Let the hearts break a little.

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Set your troubles aside Worrying about wedding details can be tedious. You have to worry about making the dalas, finding the perfect dress or sherwani and of course deciding the perfect venue. While you’re at it, you tend to forget that your body bears the brunt of the wedding stress.

Luckily for you Karma Salon and Ayurveda Research & Health Centre sweetens the pot for those of you who are getting hitched this season!

Samira Shakur walks you through some pre-wedding pampering deals for your big day!

{ Wellness }

Ayurveda Research & Health Centre

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The wedding day preparations must not begin a few hours prior to the big day. The bride typically, as it has been the norm and still remains, should always be the nucleus in any wedding. Bangladeshi brides have certainly come a long way since the days of homespun turmeric paste remedies.

Modern brides today, as the multi-taskers they are, need not just any customary pre-bridal packages offered in the abundant beauty parlours

next door!

Ayurveda Research & Health Centre offers the holistic Pre Bridal Package that is truly fit for the queen. Inclusive of an elaborate five steps treatment, this package is carried out over a period of two days. Starting off with an ayurvedic facial, hair care and a rejuvenating full body massage, the package calls finale with the two most highlighted features known as the Takradhara treatment, known to be reminiscent of

paradise, and the truly majestic, hour long bridal bath.

Pre Bridal Package Price Tk 10,000 Ayurveda Research & Health Centre House# 100, Road# 25, Block # A, Banani, Dhaka.

Mobile: 01733 239 674, 01686 111 222 Email: awc_bd@yahoo.com

Photographs by Sakib Muhtasim

The bridal weddingalogue

Karma Salon

Men’s Pre-wedding Package The Elegant Package Price Tk 10,000

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We agree that the brides are the highlight of the wedding, but why must the groom fall short, especially when the memoirs from this very special day remain alive for a lifetime! With all the stress mounted by the pre-wedding anxiety, it is hard to attain that healthy, radiant skin for the most photogenic glow on the wedding day. Gone are the days when just a clean shave and macho cologne just did the job for the grooms!

Karma Salon offers just the right kind of pre-wedding grooming package for the husbands-to-be before the big day. Their exclusive grooming package comprises

of eight essential steps that prep up the grooms for the wedding. The package includes all the bare necessities for a man, haircut, hair spa, threading and the must manicure-pedicure. With the inclusion of special Janssen polish and makeover art by the professionals, the groom is bound to be complimenting his better half on the photos.

Karma Salon House# 57, Road# 27, Block-K, Banani, Dhaka- 1213 Phone: 01715 050 772 Email: karmasalon2013@gmail.com

Portfolio

Soul Searching As the flickering lights of the candles agonise the soul, treasure troves of a royal legacy unfolds in regal embellishments. You are a perfect alchemy of grace and magnetism

Models: Chanok Sayoungkul, Priyanka Kochar, Lapsang Sundal Wardrobe: Zaheer Abbas, Pakistan Styling: Harshad Ghadvi Production: Aura Management Art direction: Zaheer Abbas Photography: Shabaz Shazi www.zaheerabbas.net

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Health

Nahid Tabassum stresses on the need for fitness and serenity as the big day approaches

With a word as heavy as ‘wedding’ nothing else can possibly stress out the two. The pressure often results to stress and anxiety which isn’t a good sign for those getting hitched. Luckily for you, yoga and a solid workout regime can knockout the stress and pre-wedding jitters.

De-stress your wedding blues Anika Rabbani, the founder and instructor of Yoganika reckons yoga to be a disciplinary and a steady practice of years. Keeping wedding in mind she recommended, “It is not to be confused with a workout one does at the gym as it teaches you to control the mind – the moods, the fears, the positives and negatives of any given situation. When one learns to master the breath, they are able to conquer the fluctuating mind and gently come back to the present moment without making small matters cumbersome.”

“Weddings can be stressful; everyone has expectations.

One should think of the smaller yet more significant details and not get carried Photograph by Arif Hafiz

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away. Things like the responsibility, caring and sharing are the concerns to keep,” she sums up. “If you merely focus on people’s opinion or how the photos will turn out – you’re missing the moment- the true magic of it all”.

According to Anika, yoga is a medium of feeling alive. The practice makes us omnipresent in our body and mind, and therefore the experience of living becomes more electric and real. She articulated further, “People do not brood over the past or future and are able to prioritise without getting stress out. Mindfulness is a quality which can be practiced both on and off the mat.”

Stirring up fitness and philosophy Anika further explained, “There’s a misconception about yoga being all about poses. However, it actually deals with yogic philosophy and

The bridal weddingalogue wisdom which extends to rules and ethics for mediation and self love.” For those who seek for a daily dose she advised the Sun Salutation that consists of nine simple poses, which coordinate breath with fluid movement.

Yoga calms the wedding jitters as well. “Deep, steady ten rhythmic breathing can bring composure back to anyone or any situation,” the instructor confirms. “Even if one does not know or practice yoga, they can take slow deep breaths while inwardly affirming that all is well and

nothing can go wrong. The mindset and the willingness to be calm is what really matters,” evincing the expert signs off leaving us with notes to take on.

Anika Rabbani Yoganika Road 107 House 14 Gulshan 2

As we move onto training and body buinding, we enter Ruslan’s Studio to have a chat with Ruslan, who is also a nutrition specialist. “Normally it takes around two weeks to see a transformation. Even if a person is obese, three months of working out can bring remarkable changes. However, consistent with dedication, dietary plans and work-out plans, anyone can furnish their personality with a perfect figure.” He comments taking the wedding season into account.

When there’s deadline swaying on the top of the couples’ head Ruslan recommends the following regime. “One hour a day thrice a week should be enough for the couple before the big day approaches. They need a lifestyle diet plan that excludes all the heavy, junk and unhealthy foods.” The instructor added, “Even when it comes to eating healthy food the amount should be adequate and not excessive to have faster results. Thus, a particular diet is assigned to them.”

When working with weights, the main concern is building new muscles as well as preserving what we have. Thus he focused

on losing fat and consuming the exact calorie requirement. “We also need to include some cardio-vascular program in the work-out plan. This regime is one which is neither light nor too heavy, and is doable if one keeps the deadline in mind. In addition to that, minimum six hours of sleep are mandatory for the couple to stay radiant and stress free during their wedding season.” The expert also suggested walking, dancing on music, spot jogging and jumping jacks as the most feasible ways to burn calorie with least effort possible. And for those who get married in a whim, he suggested to dedicate at least six weeks for a better shape before trying out the wedding attire.

Furthermore, the fitness mentor elobarated, “Training is the ultimate stress buster. It makes the body fitter and healthier, thus levering stress becomes easier for those who seize this challenge of attaining a great body on their big day.”

Photograph by Ashraf Uddin Apu

Man up before the D-day

Ruslan’s Studio House -26, Road-11, Block F Banani, Dhaka Mob# 01778900800 01771400700 51

Portfolio

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Model: Nabila Jewellery: purobi Jewellers Wardrobe: PANAM Hair and makeup: Farzana shakil's Photo: Rafiqul Islam, Raf Click

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Photograph by Sakib Muhtasim

The bridal weddingalogue

Nahid Tabassum and Samira Shakur assembles a list of ‘must-haves’ in every stunner’s pouch.

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Portfolio

Saree Soiree Model: Kobita, Meghla, Mishu, Sondha, Oliva Wardrobe: Benarashi Kuthi Jewellery: Revaz by Mahedy Chowdhury Makeup and hair: Farzana Shakil’s Photographs: Riyad Ashraf Location: Residence of Mahedy Chowdhury

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Nine yards of couture covetables that defy time and space. Drape yourself in magnificence while the world looks on at your ethereal beauty.

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Makeover

Farzana Shakil together with Aidha Cader gives you standout looks for the big day

Tribal Grunge Eyes Silver eye shadow is blended across the lids with thick black eyeliner finishing the eyes.

Cheeks A brown blush is used across the cheeks to contour the features.

Lips Silver and neutral tone lipsticks are applied for a grunge appeal.

Hair Hair mousse is applied on wet hair and left to naturally dry out.

Cuffs Parineeta Gold is used to accessorise the look.

Photos by Riyad Ashraf Model: Samin

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You Are a Firework

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Model: Isha

The bridal weddingalogue Your It List

Golden Glamour Eyes Golden eye shadow is applied across the lids with a fine tip at the inner corners. Black eyeliner is drawn along the lash lines, followed by a heavy coating of mascara.

Cheeks Bronze shimmer is brushed on the cheekbones.

Lips A soft gold lipstick is applied for a regal look.

Hair Hair is parted at the centre and combed into a sleek ponytail at the nape of the neck.

Jewellery Nakshatra Jewellers is used to accessorise the look.

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A class apart

Model: Master Viggy, Azim, Regal, Fahim, Rabbi Wardrobe: O2 Makeup and hair: Farzana Shakil’s Photographs: Abir Hossain Noman Props: Eskay Location: O2, Banani

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Portfolio

To drive you from reception to the red carpet, these sherwani suits run the spectrum from basic to ceremonial in a flash of sophistication

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Social Issue

On

the flipside

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Rumana Fouzia Choudhury reflects on the unspoken plight of child grooms

While it is true, that child marriage is a far more devastating reality for girls, who are forced to marry much older men and suffer marital rape, physical abuse and pregnancy complications, a recent UNICEF data shows that, currently 156 million men were married off before the age of 18. While boys do not have to face sexual coercion or suffer pregnancy, they are forced too at a young an age to undertake the financial burden of raising a family.

The U.S. based organisation which advocates children rights, Save the Children has been working in Bangladesh since 1970 and has taken the initiative to stop child marriage, for girls and for boys.

So, in a country that is ranked as the third poorest in South Asia and where in its parliament there is talk about reducing the age of marriage (with consent of parents of course) from 18 to 16 for girls and from 21 to 18 for boys, the issue of child marriage is not only a problem for girls, but for boys as well.

Boys as young as 9 are married off in countries like Nepal, India and Bangladesh, who have not yet even grown facial hair to shave and are expected to work hard in the fields, drive bullock carts, and procreate.

In communities where child marriage is prevalent, however, sex education is virtually non-existent. And prepubescent boys, after overcoming the initial trauma of conjugal bliss, along with their under-age brides are

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not aware of birth control and family planning, which often results in a brood of children by the time they reach their 30s. Ramsharan Reidas, a Nepalese community activist who himself was married off at 7 years of age, observed that child marriage "is a way for families to control the boys' sexuality, and for poor families to get rid of one of their obligations. If the boy is married, it's a given that he is now an adult and he should be taking care of himself."

With children and a wife to support, time and money spent on education seems like a frivolous waste of time, and most child grooms drop out and a life of gruelling menial labour ensues where the child groom, his child bride and their children are trapped deeper in a cycle of poverty from which there is nearly no escape.

However, there is very little research and data on the plight of child grooms, and the women-only focus on the issue do not provide the whole picture of the phenomenon, making them undetectable to children rights’ activists and advocates. Sabitra Dhakal, who’s heading the Tipping Point movement in Nepal observes that it is these child grooms who grow up to the patriarchs of their community who end up perpetuating the same traditions that landed them in a child marriage, crushing their dreams and ambitions.

So, perhaps research and advocacy in the condition of child grooms may be the missing link in solving the crisis of child marriage.

However, sex education is virtually non-existent.

Prepubescent boys, after overcoming the initial trauma of conjugal bliss, along with their under-age brides are not aware of birth control and family planning

{ Cover Focus }

Catalysts of Culture Agora in Greek means 'open place of assembly.’ Early in the history of Greece, agora was a designated area in the city where free-born citizens could gather to hear civic announcements, muster for military campaigns or discuss politics. These discourses educated them. Art, music and dance is ingrained in our rich heritage.

While we focus on some aspects such as food, clothing and celebrations as being a part of society’s heritage; we forget that there’s more to our legacy than just that.

The diversity of languages, customs and history that we share as a nation are instrumental parts of our history. With the youth being brought under one umbrella, platforms like Shadhona Cultural Centre, Goethe Institut of Bangladesh and EMK Centre offers a plethora of options to the youth and beyond to strengthen this solidarity of our culture. They are the modern agoras of our city. The mingling of our traditions with those of another’s is fundamental in enriching our cultural values. Let’s find out how these catalysts are important to the never ending reaction which shapes a country’s social sphere

Through the cultural

kaleidoscope Artistic Director of Shadhona and Cultural Activist of South Asia, Lubna Mariam enlightens the world on her ideologies on the evolution of culture and how it shapes us.

Humayra Rahman Mitul is all ears 84

hen was the last time you walked down the longest beach in the world or taken a stroll through the aromatic tea estates of Sylhet? It’s an undeniable fact that cultural influences from all over the world are strong catalysts in determining any lifestyle. With the towering influence of the Western world, Lubna says that this may not be a bad thing entirely. “I believe that culture and innovation goes hand in hand and as soon as it stands still, it stagnates and is destroyed.”

“Culture is everything - from what activities we participate in to what we eat or wear. The negative effect of the western culture is consumerism as it has changed the urban centres.

We will still find the plurality of culture in rural societies,” claims the dancer.

Another problem that Lubna points out is the failure of the

education system. “Education has to be rethought, with the influence of the internet reaching far and wide. Now is an exciting time with many possibilities; all that needs be done is to utilise the energy properly and the whole world can be conquered,” Lubna exclaims. She also adds, "An unfortunate tendency in Bangladesh is the rise of 'mediocrity'. Mediocrity arises due to an unwillingness to push ourselves to reach the best of our potential and it is, again unfortunately, a majoritarian propensity. Since we believe that the majority of the population is entitled to a certain degree of primacy in society, Bangladesh ends up taking popular decisions based on mediocrity. We can overcome this if we allow minority voices of reason to rise above the cacophony of mediocrity," she reveals.

Many enlightened cultures have been witness to our rich

conjunction with the American Center and World Dance Alliance Asia Pacific, will commence soon as well. We have a dance production on Muslin Hawaye Indrojal coming up, which we are producing for Drik. Lastly, we plan to continue our series of Indological Lectures," she adds.

“I believe dancing is a powerful art, as not only does it display a burst of emotions but also it defies cultural strains that a woman cannot perform in public and from what I see Bangladesh has not lost its way.”

Bangladesh has an extraordinary history of a confluence of belief systems, where Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism have come together to leave for us a profoundness beyond mundane socio-cultural structures. “I strongly feel young people should explore these and rise above present day parochialism and intolerance. East Bengal, now

Bangladesh, has always celebrated a willingness to allow the existence of opinions or behaviour that one does not necessarily agree with.

This is who we are.” Lubna asserts passionately.

Lubna is proud of the twenty years (1952 to 1971) of vibrant language and cultural movement which has instilled a lot of values and cultural norms in the people and she encourages the masses to revisit and discuss our heritage so that all that was gained is not lost. “For a country as small as Bangladesh we have twenty-nine ethnic communities living together. We must get to know them all and revel in the plurality of our culture. This will continue to make us a tolerant nation.” As we take off, Lubna’s final words to generation, "Walk around Bangladesh, explore, be proud of your heritage!"

Photograph by Sakib Muhtasim

history. “We have a lot to learn from personalities like Lalon, Rabrindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam and Atish Dipankar who have uplifted our culture.” Lubna emphasises.

Despite political agendas Lubna believes that the greatest strength Bangladesh has is in their tolerant lifestyle. “There are so many ethnic cultures living together in harmony.

We have not leaned towards fundamentalism despite strong and dominant Islamic influences.

Building walls and creating division will ultimately cause our downfall.

Ordinary people do not think in-depth; we are swayed by aspirations created by transnational lifestyles,” asserts Lubna.

Shadhona has a feminist dance project called 'Shakti' to empower young dancers, include issues of social justice into their work in mainstream performances. “ ‘Shakti’ aims to create a space for critical reflection, based on the conviction that the arts, and the artistes who practice them do not exist in a vacuum but are active participants in the process of shaping our culture. It aims to direct young dancers and performers to believe that creativity and imagination are powerful instruments to change lives and build a better world.”

The folk performing arts centre Shadhona is set to launch its new project, Nurturing Intangible Cultural Heritage in Bangladesh.

“We plan to continue our Manipuri Dance Teaching Project 'dhrumel' which we conduct in Komolganj (Srimongol) with the help of a local group Manipuri Theatre.”

Lubna also plans to collaborate with the folk performances of 'Manasa Mangal' (The Myth of Manasa) and work with the various 'lathikhela' groups all over the country. Lubna discloses what we can expect from Shadhona in the next few months. “ek pa egiye (ONE STEP FORWARD), a four month long Contemporary Dance Residency, in

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Photo Ashraf Uddin Apu

ulling in students and young Bangladeshis, EMK Center encourages volunteerism, entrepreneurship development and public service amongst their other services. Under the leadership of MK Aaref, artists and entrepreneurs get a platform to broadcast their talents, encourage dialogue and promote an exchange of ideas. “I would prefer that we focused more on arts.” Aaref never backs down when it comes to 86

preserving our heritage, giving out small grants which can vary from documentations of dying art forms, sociological research and agriculture.

“For instance, the chakma tribes are becoming more urbanised and losing their traditional musical instruments due to the lack of practice. We provided a grant to document their music and instruments.”

He wishes for foreigners and locals to take with them a piece of the true Bangladesh. “I don’t think people will come to the country to see the

world’s longest beach,” he chuckles.

“On 2nd January, an exhibition on Bangladeshi rural crafts will be held here. The baskets and bags made by our weavers are more than just mere decorative pieces,” he comments with pride.

Moving on to performance arts, EMK also promotes young talents to get on the mainstream bandwagon. “Recently, we provided a platform to a young tabla player, Mir Naqibul Islam who blew us away with his performance.” Aaref brings a refreshing spin to their

start-up programs. “Instead of teaching the youth on how to write their curriculum vitae, we teach them to think of ideas and start their own companies. Our motto is ‘don’t be a job seeker, be a job provider.’ There’s a market for everything now, regardless of how futile it might be. If people can make millions from producing selfie sticks with a spoon, I am sure our youth can come up with far more exciting ideas,” he remarks.

While talking about entrepreneurs, Aaref mentions that from November onward he plans to launch a program for women called ‘Women in Tech.’ The dynamic CEO wants to give women a space where they will be encouraged to share and discuss their technical ideas.

forward and apply for grants for their ideas.

“We announce a small grants competition at the end of the year. Once an entrepreneur or artist has showcased their talents at EMK, it will act like their USP and eventually when it becomes a commercial venture, it will only make us happy.”

EMK is also in a partnership with the Liberation War Museum and the American Center of the US Embassy Dhaka. Aref wants to bridge the gap between the US and Bangladesh through this collaboration. “People forget that Edward Kennedy openly campaigned to have us recognised.” He identifies the flipside as well. “I know there are a lot of drawbacks on the way they operate and there is a lack of racial harmony even now. On the contrary, they

To really grow as an individual, it’s mandatory to be educated about the diversity in different cultures.

“When we were little we would make fun of Chinese names but now I know better,” Aaref reveals. “I know now that it has a story and a background which is more than 5000 years old and just because it sounds funny to us, it isn’t actually funny.”

Aaref defines the fine line between pride and arrogance.

“We have these notions of cultural superiority which needs to go. “People told me I was corrupting our cultural heritage by promoting hip-hop dance. They forget that I even promote Tagore’s music.” Taking the higher road, he shrugs off the comments.

The world is advancing, and so is Aaref ’s stride in bringing

M K Aaref, CEO of the Edward M Kennedy Center for Public Service and the Arts, doesn’t weave dreams, but helps sprinting them into reality. Natasha Rahman rounds up his views as he sets a crackling pace for the generation to come forward and embrace both livelihood and culture He shares an inspiring example, “When Desh Garments first opened in the late 70s, people ridiculed them and now this industry provides millions of women employment and dream of a better life.”

A popular 80s slogan ‘Think Globally, Act Locally,’ is a motto that should go abuzz now. “People need to emulate successful models. Abroad, coding is being taught at a very young age; once people learn it they too can come with cool apps, which very well could be the next Clash of Clans or better,” he beams.

The EMK Center also roots for innovators to come

didn’t become a superpower overnight, it took them two-hundred years to get there, hence the love-hate relationship,” he comments.

The only thing that’s constant is change; Aaref takes a stab at the cultural shifts. “There was a time in our parents’ generation when everyone kept a music teacher at home but now people are caught up trying to get a GPA 5.” But the CEO has a spark of hope. It’s great to see that a lot of people are trying to rediscover the Baul and folk music and representing it in a more contemporary fashion.

“It’s a city of fifteen million people; we need at least five Shilpakalas.”

together more young minds to pursue their dreams.

“When livelihood is guaranteed, culture flourishes.

Eventually, young successful entrepreneurs will patronise different bands, clubs and sponsor concerts.” Aaref is here to turn things around for the youth and help them realise their potentials. “I don’t claim any ownership over it. Copy anything we do and do it better, we will be happy.” EMK Center wants to be the catalyst, through which the rising generation can make something for themselves. “Thing big, start small and you will get there,” with a twinkle in his eye, M K Aaref concludes.

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Photograph by Sakib Muhtasim

Best of both worlds

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Goethe-Institut Dhaka, the cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany, has been present in Bangladesh for over fifty years now. Judith Mirschberger, the Director of Goethe-Institut Bangladesh gets candid with Mehrin Mubdi Chowdhury about her experiences and vision. he Goethe-Institut (GI) in Bangladesh has been helping to create opportunities for performing artists and students for a long time now. Judith Mirschberger, director of the Goethe-Institut Bangladesh, a vibrant Arts & Culture enthusiast herself, answers exactly how.

“Teaching German as a foreign language has immense capabilities for Bangladeshi students because it is an opportunity to expose them to the outside world. Most of the students are scared when they begin to learn the language; they usually have a perception that ‘German’ is extremely tough. But our programs are set in such a way that it encourages fast learning.”

Judith has been working in Bangladesh for almost five years now and she feels she has been able to contribute positively. “The people in the country are extremely motivated; they want to learn more and they are interested to get more exposure.” Judith also complimented the government for being open to new ideas and helping in collaborative work towards promotion of cultural enrichment programs.

According to Judith, Goethe helps facilitate an intercultural dialogue.

“The institute hires expertise from both Germany and Bangladesh in the fields of performing arts such as dance, photography, painting, etc. In this way both nations gets to mingle and share stories. We provide them with the right kind of platform and our free workshops encourage them to get access to different facilities.”

When asked whether she had seen any direct impact of the programs and workshops of Goethe, Judith remarks, “Some of our programs have had remarkable effect. I would like to emphasise on some major events like the ‘Fashion Exchange Program’ where every year fashion maestros from Bangladesh travel to Berlin to showcase their work and meet experts in the field from Germany.”

Judith explains, “Bangladesh’s fashion industry is prolific with huge potential but it lacks the required exposure especially in the foreign world. If the Germans came to Bangladesh directly they would get to see the real picturehow culturally rich Bangladesh is and the immense potential this country has for collaborative work. Our vision is to help create a smooth communication between the two countries.”

Goethe has also been instrumental in providing secure platforms for people of Bangladesh to come out with their problems and discuss them. Judith articulates, “We need to provide equal footing for all including the Transgender & the LGBT community to encouraging everyone to try and understand each other and respect different views reducing any sorts of intolerance.” The institutes other major events include the arrangement of drama and plays in Dhaka encouraging the reduction of prejudice towards them.

Further into the conversation, Judith emphasised that Goethe also focuses on highlighting the heritage of different nations.

Judith articulates, “Bangladesh has an extremely rich culture and

heritage which need to be made popular amongst the young generation & the mass people.”

The Goethe-Institut held a mega-scale event along with national partners like the Department of Antiquities, The South City Corporation, and the Ministry of Culture etc. where they illuminated the ‘Debi Nibash’ in Old Dhaka. The illuminations were done by German light artists.

Judith shares that her ultimate vision is to have an Open Heritage Day in Bangladesh someday.

Judith shares the immense changes she has noticed in the past 5 years. “During my tenure in Bangladesh I have seen tremendous changes in the country. Today there are more international standard festivals such as the Bengal Classical Music Festival, the Art Summit and the Lit Fest promoting the culture and arts of the region. I want people from abroad to come to Bangladesh and see the country with their own eyes and experience the real changes helping to remove their pre-set biased conceptions, if any.”

She expressed, “I enjoyed my stay in this country thoroughly.

Emotionally, it is very satisfactory for me to be able to influence people in such a positive way.

Bangladeshis are extremely creative and they just need positive reinforcement to chase their dreams. On the other hand, I have also learnt that the country can sometimes face challenges given our political situation.

However, these challenges have helped me become more patient. I have realised that everything usually works out in the end,” she concludes on a optimistic note.

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Special Feature Sarat Mala Chakma, her daughter Kanak Chanpa Chakma, and her granddaughter Shiropa Purna

Three Cheers for Art

“Three Generations” is a brilliant example of the day-by-day development of the artistic talent within a family as it is passed on from one generation to another. The Athena Gallery of Fine Arts at Uttar Badda arranged a three-week-long group exhibition titled ‘3 Generation’ with Sarat Mala Chakma, her daughter Kanak Chanpa Chakma, and her granddaughter Shiropa Purna’s works. Attorney General Mahbubey Alam, renowned entrepreneur and former adviser to the caretaker government Rokia Afzal Rahman and renowned artist and media personality Mustafa Monowar inaugurated the three-week exhibition which started on October 17.

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Sarat’s work will comprise of natai, chorka, and the method of knitting from cotton. Her daughter Kanak’s weavings along with paintings portraying the indigenous peoples’ feelings, pain, political and social oppression was on display. Her daughter Shiropa’s watercolour work was on display along with her 10-minute film “Bird in a Cage” which was screened during the tenure of the exhibition.

Gallery Athena’s exhibition of new dimensions will certainly inspire the future generations of many other Bangladeshi families.

Going back to the start, Sarat Mala Chakma was born in 1932 in a small village called Machchori in the Subholong region of

Kanak inherited paint and design from her mother while Shiropa inherited from her mother the vibrant colours of indigenous art, the technique inherent in her father’s paintings and his brilliant film-making skills. when she starred in her brother Arjo Shrestho’s first short film, receiving the Best Child Actress Award from Stamford TRAB. By the age of eight, Shiropa made a brilliant short film that got her an award from the Reel Teens Film Festival of New York, USA. Kanak inherited paint and design from her mother while Shiropa inherited from her mother the vibrant colours of indigenous art, the technique inherent in her father’s paintings and his brilliant film-making skills. She acted in a few dramas in her earlier years, but her major breakthrough came with the full-length film ‘Gohine Shobdo (Dark resonance)’, for which she was recognized as the Best Child Actress in the Silent River Film Festival, USA. However, her interest in acting is shadowed by her ambitions in filmmaking. Her first shooting session was inaugurated by master puppeteer, artist and TV personality, Mustafa Manwar.

Shiropa’s short film was followed by five more, for which she received awards, both national and international. She wrote all her scripts herself, developing vital writing skills.

She also edited her films on her own and thus enhanced her understanding of filmmaking. “Three Generations” will arouse a special desire to uphold family values.

Rangamati. Like many other women of the Jumma community Sarat Mala Chakma works on her backstrap loom in Rangamati. She weaves pignons (sarongs) for herself and her daughter. Later, she was awarded the honour of being the best weaver and was invited to join the exhibition of Crafts from Bangladesh which was to be held in the summer of 1987 in London. The third child of Saratmala and Bijoy Chandra, was Kanak Chanpa Chakma. While her mother wove, the little’s girl’s infatuation towards paint started growing. As a schoolgirl, Kanak’s artistic endeavors brought her a first prize in children’s art given by UNICEF. While Kanak was in college, her mother was given the National Award for Handicrafts for creating a specific Alam (a design catalogue). Shortly after, she was taken to England at the National Crafts Council to demonstrate her skills in front of visitors and later again in Italy.

Meanwhile, Kanak completed her education and launched her career as a full-time artist. Her paintings contain the vibrant colours that indigenous art so often carries, but Kanak gave those colours a dimension of her own. Soon, she married Khalid Mahmood Mithu, a renowned artist, photographer and film-maker and the couple’s second offspring was Shiropa Purna.

Shiropa’s first acting experience was at the age of five

Beautiful Minds This page and overleaf, works of the artists of three generation portraying lives and emotions of our time

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Breaking Barriersrs

n search { Breaking Barriers }

of hope On an inspirational voyage working with people with disabilities (PWD), Nahid Tabassum unfolds the story behind M. Jahidul Islam’s undefeated efforts in advocating the equal participation and education opportunities for PWDs

According to WHOʼs survey in 2011, 7 to 10% is disabled of the whole population and 90% people among them with disabilities reside below the poverty margin Source (UNESCO,2005)

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I

n an city like Dhaka, where there are challenges in every step of the wau, M. Jahidul Islam, a fellowProgram, Policy and Campaign of ActionAid and a global shaper shared views that altered our discernment on life and struggle.

His journey “At the age of two I was diagnosed with polio. Since I was born in a middle class family, my parents could not ascertain my future twenty seven years ago.

Thus I had to go through a lot of mistreatment. However, they somehow realised that education was the only way to keep me standing. I really am fortunate that they did not settle on showcasing me at home,” said Jahidul meekly.

“Mobility was and still remains a

major problem since our transportation, vehicles and communication is not supportive with the People with Disabilities (PWDs),” Jahid elucidated rationally. “Every day I am suffering due to transportation hazard”, he voiced gravely. On the contrary, these hurdles made the hiker strenuous and unshakable as he furthermore revealed, “Thereon wherever I got stuck, I vowed to myself that I will overcome this! Throughout high school I only missed a day while people kept missing dozens of lectures for no apparent reason,” the hardcore guise shared.

His aspirations Ensuring that the physical impediments do not miss out on their aims in life is an incessant battle that PWDs brawl

M. Jahidul Islam More than 12% of our population is PWDs which makes more than 10 million of our entire population lagging behind without any support system or laws.

undisputedly. Jahid being no different always performed past necessities leaving no flaws exposing his efficiency and margins. “Being among PWDs, I comprehended that I should act accordingly as most of the PWDs do not get highest education, job facilities or support from their family and society,” he revealed.

According to WHO’s survey in 2011, 7 to 10 percent is disabled of the whole population and 90% people among them with disabilities reside below the poverty margin Source (UNESCO,2005) This indicates a co-relation between disability and poverty which additionally makes them more vulnerable and susceptive in this unreasonable world.

“When I grasped that solvency is a prerequisite for PWDs, I started outsourcing to enhance my skills and work experience,” shared the winner of BASIS Online Outsourcing Award.

I deem if visually impaired Bhaskar Bhattacharya, program office of Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) can explore the whole world, likewise given adequate prospects who knows a Stephen Hawking may emerge from Bangladesh someday”, he appended suggestively.

More than 12% of our population is PWDs which makes more than 10 million of our entire population lagging behind without any support system or laws.

What saddens him “Even though Dhaka dwellers are getting more concerned about PWDs yet for people like me we hardly see ramps or slopes in the commercial places to commute easily,” Jahid pointed out.

“The numerous posh restaurants around Gulshan, Banani or Dhanmondi explicitly count the PWDs off from their list of customers”, he slammed the facts and the scenarios. And to break these barricades

Jahid in conjunction with ActionAid are working on the project named Removing Cultural Barrier (RCB) that will aid PWDs to enjoy normal living.

Jahid believes in pushing his limits Whatever the case may be, Jahid has never ceased to gather knowledge and pursue education. Currently, he is enrolled in the Disability Management and Community Based Rehabilitation Program of Queens University, Canada. He believes the course will help him corroborate PWDs in ensuring their rehabilitation, education and employment within the community.

On a personal note the motivator entailed, “Try your best to shatter all the barriers. Struggles may not end but give your best and let the diligence lead towards success.” He acknowledged their involvement stating, “A little bit of help from the surroundings can matter a lot guarantying a smooth passage on the road to the desired goal.” His patience left us awestricken and kept us wondering the words of J.R.R. Tolkien – Courage is often found in unlikely places.

Photographer: Sakib Muhtasim

Corporate Cafe

Hitting the mark Providing the world with unique products that meet customer demands for personal care, nutrition and hygiene, Unilever is a brand that is here to stay. Brand Building Director for Unilever Bangladesh, Zaved Akhtar shows Mehrin Mubdi Chowdhury what makes Unilever a powerhouse of success 94

You’ve been in Unilever Bangladesh since 2000; what branding strategy do you think has been successful for the company in sustaining the goodwill amongst customers? How and why do you think it made a difference?

First and foremost we ensure that we provide consumers with the best product experience for the price they pay. The reason consumers adhere to any branded product is consistency; consistent product quality, consistent experience, consistent pricing, and even consistent availability. Since the outset as an organisation we have strived to ensure that we have great experiences available at the right price point at the right channels at arms’ reach for the people we serve. Today that has helped us to have a strong corporate share and be strong market leaders across most categories that we operate in.

Our country has undergone numerous transitions in the socio-economical forefront in the last decade. How has it affected the operations at Unilever?

Bangladesh is a great example of a country that has pulled itself out of poverty and set itself in the path of becoming one of the ’watch out nations.’ We have been able to improve overall income and livelihood and these changes have enabled consumers to be more health and hygiene conscious.

Beauty quotient of the country has also gone up. Consequently demand for health hygiene products have also increased. This has dramatically shifted the nature of our business from a predominantly soaps and detergent company to a more personal product business catering to the health, beauty and hygiene need of the Bangladeshi people.

For a country that is heavily immersed in all forms of media, which advertising strategy works best for Unilever and its consumers- above the line (ATL) or below the line (BTL)?

Both have a role. For building brand image and driving quick saliency and reach ATL is a fantastic medium. BTL comes to play when you have longer messages to convey. For instance, when we are trying to run thematic communication to drive and improve equity we should be using predominantly ATL whereas BTL would be a great medium to build niche and market development opportunities.

Consumer behaviour changes rapidly and so does the market.

How has Unilever been able to cater to the needs of the masses with the changing trends?

As the leading marketer in the FMCG category, one of the most important traits is to be the catalyst of change. Unilever luckily has been able to be a pioneer in many instances. We were the first to introduce synthetic detergents in the market, first one to introduce skin lightening creams, dish wash, deodorants, to name a few.

However, with the world flattening and with the proliferation of media this will be even a bigger challenge in coming days as to how we can continue to be the catalyst of change. We need to have foresight and be able to shape trends. This will help us stay one step ahead of the competitors and help improve the quality of life of Bangladeshi people.

Ever since you’ve been in the branding territory for Unilever, what sort of challenges have you faced? How did you overcome them?

There are always challenges. They come in diverse forms and shapes.

Some cases you will see that a ‘me too’ situation comes up and hence

one tends to lose differentiation or you get attacked by discounters.

Although it serves as a compliment that people want to replicate our products, it also means that we have not evolved fast enough.

The key to overcome these challenges is to stay ahead of everyone. And the way Unilever does this is by ensuring that we are close to the people we serve and understand the needs and see how we can influence trends.

Our CEO Paul Polman had set a clear vision for the company –double the business, whilst halving our environmental footprint and improving the lives of the people we touch. Second, the way we ran our marketing side of things needed to change as well.

It became largely technical, complex and very process-oriented, generating little success out of complex brand teams and structures. Marketers thought in terms of market share, innovations, execution; but had largely lost the sense of building brands that change people’s lives.

Hence we recrafted how we do marketing and today we call this Crafting Brands for Life, where we talk about putting people first, i.e., we craft brands for people not marketers managing brands for consumers, building brand love, i.e., create brands that people can’t live without, unlocking the magic; we combine magic and logic to give exceptional brand experience.

We are all craftsman and craftswoman.

What new campaigns is Unilever Bangladesh involved with?

We just launched three new initiatives in October itself, Dove Day, Lifebuoy Life Saver Campaign and Knorr #shareameal. All of these are a part of our brands’ purpose to ensure that we bring a meaningful difference to peoples’

lives. Dove Day celebrates womanhood and calls women to be proud of their looks. Through this we reinforce the idea that beauty shouldn’t be a source of anxiety, rather it should be a source of confidence. Lifebuoy Life Saver invites people to spend an hour of their time to teach children how a simple act of hand washing can save their lives. And finally Knorr #shareameal campaign is inviting people to join the movement of sharing meals with those who have not been as fortunate.

There are a lot of start-up companies in the market. Do you think they would need to implement branding strategies to generate traffic? Why do you think so? How do you think this can be achieved?

Start-ups can bring a great idea to fruition. However, in order for the idea to be a massive success, they would need to ensure that they are able to market their idea and build scales. Both of these would require a sharply positioned product that can quickly get scale.

Start-ups bring in fresh thinking and new concepts to the business and Unilever believes that there are plenty of opportunities to collaborate that can help us partner with them and address business challenges.

Unilever luckily has been able to be a pioneer in many instances. We were the first to introduce synthetic detergents in the market, first one to introduce skin lightening creams, dish wash and deodorants.

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{ Décor }

When the wedding season knocks on the door, moving into a new house with a life partner is a memory worth cherishing. But the thrill of decorating and revamping the living space can take a toll on both you and your partner.

When decorating the new house you and your beau need to consider each other’s creative ideas in order to make it feel like home. Moreover, your new house should illustrate both of your personalities, thus fitting the best of both worlds. Luckily for you, Satori and Charuta’s got a range of décor pieces that fits the bill for those of you who are tying the knot.

Gold lamp set Anything gold adds a hint of extravagance to the simplest of space.

Satori’s magnificent lamp set is inspired

by Arabian crafts and style. Place it on a silk or velvet fabric over a table for a nice grand contrast.

Price Candle stands on either side Tk 11,500 Center decorative piece Tk 12,800

Stylise your home

Photos by Sakib Muhtasim

Red chandelier lamp Satori’s collection features a sheer red shade with flawless chrome finish and beautiful cascading crystals. Fit for your bedroom or drawing room to create a romantic atmosphere and a stylish flair. Good lighting is like a gem for your room; it adds an aesthetic beauty to the space. If you’re all about ambiance, these lamps should serve the purpose. Go get it!

Price Tk 9,950 Satori House 121-D, Rd 44 (2nd Floor) Gulshan 2

Photographs: Sakib Muhtasim

The bridal weddingalogue Carissa Musrat is on the lookout for numerous ways to spruce up the home for newly weds.

Floral vases Be it empty or graced with flowers, a vase looks good in almost anywhere in the house. The plastic red and pink flowers complement the unique tone of this ceramic copper vessel. This exclusive vase set is accessible at Satori soon.

Price Tk 1,900 to Tk 3,950 Total set Tk 10,000

Beige sofa If you’re all about versatility, you cannot go wrong with this pale brown couch. It’s a great fit for every colour and furnishing in the house. Beige is one of those mute colours which go with everything. All the more reasons to get this one!

Price Tk 35,000

Floral photo frames Photo frames are a mirror to your memories and a new house is empty without snaps of the priceless wedding moments. This beautiful pastel floral embossed frame should do right by you.

Price Single frame Tk1,250 Dual Frame Tk 1,595 Cosy divan Let’s talk about basics! Before we put our mind and heart into decorative elements, the first thing a couple looks into is furniture. A monochromatic couch sounds like a perfect idea for the living room making it a comfy space for the guests. This E shaped sofa is available at Charuta.

Price Tk 45,000 Charuta House # 65, Road # 27, Banani

A chef ’s story

Spring in your step

Aidha Cader gets a scoop on celebrity chef Nazim Khan, a showstopp er in the culinary world

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Currently Executive Chef at Bryan Health, in Lincoln Nebraska, Nazim Khan moved to the US to study business however, his passion for food resulted in him switching professions. It began when he worked as an assistant at ‘Sen Japanese’; a fine dining restaurant located at Sag Harbour, New York. “One day I saw the singer Billy Joel in the restaurant bowing his head down to the Japanese chef asking him how he is doing,” recalls Nazim. This genuine respect shown towards a chef inspired him to change the culinary world across the Atlantic. His show “Chop Chop with Chef

Nazim” in CBS2/Fox 28 in Iowa is still running successfully. Nazim’s talent and achievements not only has impressed countless fine diners but he was privileged to showcase it to the likes of Michelle Obama, Al gore, Nicole Kidman, 50 cent, Snoop Dog, Pitbull, Georgia Line and many such iconic clientele.

“In the US we see a chef as an artist; plate is our canvas and food our paint,” adds Chef Nazim.

It’s a Hell’s Kitchen The culinary world is competitive and challenging like no other. “I first learned Japanese and French cuisine which are both artistic as well

as technical,” he says. His mentor was Chef George McNeill, a maestro in the industry. “I am in debt to him for everything I have learned,” says Nazim.

However, Nazim Khan’s greatest role model and inspiration is his mother. “I’ll be nowhere if it weren’t for my mother’s efforts and faith in me,” he recalls.

Long hours, yelling and screaming at the kitchen is routine in a chef ’s world. But what fuels his passion is that the industry that builds around making people happy.

“To be one of the best in the field, you have to live, sleep, breathe and eat 24/7 like a chef. If you aren’t working on your weaknesses, I can

guarantee you the other guy is. You have to always have the drive to be better and offer more,” stresses Chef Nazim.

“So when the chef asks you to slice fresh algae into strips measuring 7 cm in length and 1.5 mm in width, you better know how to do that well and fast,” recalls Nazim.

It is a roller coaster ride that never slows down; but undoubtedly the thrill is like no other. “When you’re hungry, sleep deprived and exhausted, all the verbal abuse will make you question your own skill and ability. If you let it get to you, it will turn into a chaotic environment,” he adds. It’s also a physically demanding job. “You are constantly running up and down the stairs and standing for a good part of the day.” In the kitchen everyone is a team player and if one player doesn’t show up for even a day, the rest has to shoulder the responsibility, which is not an easy task. The other drawback is, in this sixteen plus hour day, it gives you little time for family and friends.

“You miss all birthdays, holidays and family vacations and eventually you

stop getting invitations,” chuckles Nazim. Your kitchen crew becomes your new family and friends.

“When my son Nuhad was born I used to go to work early in the morning when he was asleep, and when I came home late at night, he was asleep again,” shares Nazim

Signature style Nazim Khan respects his clientelle and believes in serving them dishes made of the highest quality produce.

“My presentation is elegant and clean and I am constantly questioning myself on how I can make the dish better in terms of looks, texture and taste among other variables,” he remarks. The culinary industry, like the fashion world, is vivacious and constantly seeking ‘the next new thing.’ A classic dish will always have its share in the market, however, customers are demanding for more innovative dining experiences. “Food is no longer a fill for hunger; one comes to a restaurant and expects a food experience desiring a theatre on a plate,” adds Chef Nazim. Molecular gastronomy is an area that Nazim

has mastered and thereby is able to deliver culinary invasions beyond one’s imagination. “Over the next few years, I see resurgence in ‘analogue’ dishes and a return to food that is real, tasty, and nourishing, both physically and spiritually,” he observes. As the consumers become more aware of ethical and sustainable living this will induce their food habits. “More and more diners will want to know about the provenance of what they're eating. Animal ethics and sustainability will play an increasing role in dining decisions,” confirms Nazim. As technology improves this will offset the increasing staff cost and more tech driven facilities will be on board. “Don’t be surprised the next time you’ll be ordering from digital menu cards or robots,” says the chef humorously.

As he basks in the glory of all that he has achieved over an eighteen-year career, he is now the mentor for a new generation of chefs to look upon. “Walking into the dining hall and looking at my crew I feel a sense of accomplishment, I hope to keep motivating them to reach their best,” Nazim concludes.

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of

The

Pithas

Aidha Cader visits Israt Jahan Sultana at her home as she prepares an array of delectable pithas for the season

Preparing food is an art and this is how Israt looks upon it as she patiently decorates the various types of Pithas. “It’s a great pleasure to see the happy faces enjoying the food I cook” she adds. With a carrier in broadcasting and a degree in commerce her vision was set to follow her passion into the culinary world. In 2014 she graduated from National Hotel & Tourism Training Institute and decided to open her own fast food outlet. She operates the store “Curious Cuisine” at Kazi Food Island. “I also like to explore cuisines from around the world, and use these influences to create something new,” she concludes.

Mung Pakon

Photographs by Abu Naser

Ingredients ½ cup rice flour ½ cup fried mung bean (dal) 1 tbsp flour 2 cups water 1 pinch of baking powder 2½ tbsp powdered sugar 1 tbsp ghee 1 egg Oil for deep-frying For Syrup Water 2 cups sugar Preparation Add dal into 1½ cups boiling water and cook it until it’s tender. Stir continuously to make it into a paste. Boil ½ a cup of water in another pan and mix in the rice flour and salt. Add the dal paste with the rice flour mixture and continue to cook on low heat until the mixture becomes dry and pliable. Remove from the stove and set aside to cool for five minutes. Mix in the sugar, ghee, egg and knead into dough. Roll the dough to 1 cm thick sheet and cut with a decorative pitha or cookie cutter. Heat sufficient oil and deep-fry it in batches until golden in colour.

Prepare syrup by heating water and sugar. Add the fried pithas into the sugar syrup and let it soak until moist.

Rose Pitha Ingredients 2 cups milk, 3 cups flour 4 tbsp sugar, 1 pinch salt 2 tbsp ghee Oil for deep fry For syrup: 3 cups sugar 1½ cup water 2 pieces cinnamon

Preparation Make the syrup by heating water with sugar and cinnamon. Simmer until you have light consistency. Bring milk to boil and stir in the sugar, salt and flour. Stir vigorously to make the dough. Remove it from stove and set aside to cool. Mix in the ghee and knead for about 5 minutes. Roll the dough on a floured board and cut out 2-inch discs. Pile up 3 discs together and slit the sides by 3 ways, with the centre attached. Place small pea size pieces of dough in the centre and bring in the petals along the cuts towards the centre sealing at it at the base on the side. Follow this until you have created a rose.

Once the roses are made deep-fry it until golden in colour. Add the pithas into the sugar syrup and let it soak well.

Fuljhuri Pitha Ingredients 1 cup rice flour 1 egg, beaten ž cup sugar 1 pinch salt ½ cup water Oil for frying Flower shaped frame

Preparation Mix rice flour, salt and sugar with warm water and set aside for an hour to rest.

Add the egg and stir it well. Heat sufficient oil for frying. Place flower shape frame in the hot oil for a few minutes and dip it into the batter. Remove the frame from the batter and place it in the hot oil. Gently remove the pitha from the frame using a long skewer while it is frying in the oil. As soon as the pithas start to swell, detach it from the frame. Continue the process until all the pithas are fried.

Kheer Patishapta Ingredients For Kheer 3 litres milk 9 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp rice flour 1 pinch cardamom For Gola 6 cups polao rice flour 2 cups flour 750 g molasses

Preparation For Kheer Heat the milk in pan. Once it is hot, take away ½ a cup and set it aside.

Continue to boil the remaining milk and mix in the sugar. Simmer under low heat until the milk condenses. Pour half cup of milk and mix well. The mixture should be soft and creamy. Remove from the stove and set aside to cool.

For Gola Break the molasses into pieces. Add 2 cups of water and bring it to boil.

Remove from stove and stir in the flour, rice flour, salt and make a batter. Heat a greased, non-stick fry pan. Take a ladle of batter and make a thin pancake. Cover the pan and cook on both sides. Once all the batter is made into pancakes spread approximately 2 tablespoon of kheer on each, in the centre and roll it in.

Nakshi Pitha Ingredients ½ kg rice flour 1 kg oil 1 kg molasses ½ tbsp salt

Preparation Bring water to boil and add in salt with rice flour. Stir vigarously and make a dough. Roll out and cut to shape with a cookie cutter. Use a toothpick to make more decoartions on the surface. Deep fry in hot oil until golden in colour.

Prepare syrup from molasses and adequate water. Place the fried pitha in the molases syrup to soak well.

Doi Malpoa Ingredients 3 cups rice flour 1 cup flour 1 cup date molasses 2 cups liquid milk 2 cups sour yoghurt 2 tbsp sugar 3/4 tsp rose water Oil for frying

Preparation Heat milk and mix in the flour, rice flour and date molasses. The batter should be thick and smooth. Heat a non-stick pan with some ghee. When the pan is hot, pour a ladle of batter and fry round shaped pancakes. Flip it over and cook on both sides until the sides are crisp and golden in colour. Continue this way until all the batter is made into Pithas (Malpoa) Add rose water with sugar and sour yogurt. Beat well to form a smooth sauce. Add the fried Malpoa into sauce and set aside to soak.

Jhal Poa Pitha

Ingredients 1 cup rice flour 1 cup boiled rice flour ½ cup flour, 2 eggs ½ cup onion, chopped 2 green chillis, sliced 2 tbsp diced coriander leaves ½ tbsp sugar ½ tbsp baking powder Salt to taste, Oil for frying

Preparation Mix flour, baking powder and sugar together. Add in the onions, green chilli, coriander leaves, salt and mix well. Add the egg with sufficient water and knead into dough. Roll out round disks, 3 inches in diameter.

Deep-fry the pithas in hot oil until golden in colour. When the pitha swells, turn it over and prick with a long toothpick to release the air from inside. Serve it with tomato or green chili sauce.

Music Icon

All That Jazz Feels like the swinging seventies with the jazz fest is about to hit town. To keep you in tune with the groove, ICE Today brings an exclusive interview of none other than John McLaughlin himself!

I

t began with a classical music festival.

Since then a flood of music festivals have taken Dhaka by storm and her citizens are not complaining. Again, November brings with it an array of cultural festivities such as the Dhaka Lit Fest, Bengal Classical Music Festival 2015, Dhaka Folk Fest 2015, and starting it all off, Jazz x Blues Festival. The Jazz x Blues Festival dedicates three evenings to celebrating yet another genre. Managed and organised by Blues Communications and presented by Grameenphone, the festival’s exciting line-up includes Louis Banks and jazz legend John McLaughlin.

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Our country’s platform has already been graced by classical music greats from this region such as Vidushi Girija Devi, Ustad Zakir Hossain, Ustad Rashid Khan, Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia; Qawali master Rahat Fateh Ali Khan; celebrated composer A R Rahman and now adding to that list is English jazz maestro, John McLaughlin.

Jazz aficionados will need no introduction, but for those who may not be familiar with McLaughlin’s work, prepare yourselves for a brief lesson in music history. Born in a small village in the Yorkshire Dales, the jazz guitarist started playing the instrument

John McLaughlin

at the age of eleven. By twenty-eight he had already performed with jazz guru Miles Davis. McLaughlin then went on to form his own band, ‘The Mahavishnu Orchestra’ in 1971 and later in 1975, ‘Shakti’.

musicals forms such as Flamenco music and North and South Indian music theory, have all had an impact on my music. But never forget that I am, by discipline, a Jazz musician.

It is not a coincidence that both his bands have Indian names.

McLaughlin has spent a large part of his life immersed in Indian culture.

What is it about the Indian culture and music that attracts you so much?

Indian philosophy and music have been part of my life since the 1960s.

My interest began from the philosophical point of view as Asia has been addressing the great existential questions of life for thousands of years. It was inevitable that I discover the music of India.

In addition, there is much common ground between Jazz and Indian music. Improvisation with rhythm is a perfect example of this common ground. I have been working with Indian musicians for over forty years, so it's natural that the Indian culture and its music have made a deep impression on me.

Is that why your music is frequently dubbed as ‘jazz fusion?’

I have never tried to play fusion music. The music is called fusion by the record companies for marketing purposes only. The music that is played by the 4th Dimension is the result of all my musical and other experiences, which not only include the great musicians of Shakti, but also my classical background, the work and recordings made with Paco de Lucia. Of course having played with the greatest musicians from the East and West, coupled with my studies into different

On the clock What was it like performing with Miles Davis?

Absolutely wonderful!

Major influences?

Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Jimi Hendrix and Pandit Ravi Shankar Most challenging performance?

So many. The first live concert with Miles, the first concert with Shakti and the first concerts performing my two guitar concertos with symphony orchestra probably stand out as the most challenging.

So with all these sorts of experiences under your belt, what do you have to say to the aspiring jazz musicians of Bangladesh about attaining the level of your expertise?

If you are serious about playing music for the rest of your life, you need to master your instrument to the point where you do not face any technical difficulties. Our audience expects the musician to not have problems that will come between the performance and the enjoyment of the performance. This is why lives are dedicated to the mastery of all aspects of music including technique. Besides, I’m sure you have some wonderful Jazz players in your country - you have had a rich musical culture for hundreds of years. I am really looking forward to coming to Bangladesh and meeting new friends there. I'm sure I will take away some marvellous memories.

Indeed McLaughlin has had quite a diverse mix of musical experiences.

Starting with Tony Williams, he has played with Miles Davis, Billy Cobham, Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana to name a few. He has worked with musicians all over the world such as the great Spanish guitarist Paco de Lucia and Etienne M’beppe who is originally from Cameroon and based in Paris.

And it is this prolific jazz career that cinches his place as the highlight and the most anticipated act of the festival. Come hail, come storm, the first night of the festival is sure to be filled to the brim with fans eagerly waiting to swing to the rhythm of McLaughlin’s strings.

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Travel

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Sri Lanka, Heaven’s Own Island Badruzzahan Ahmed takes a tour of the heavenly island Sri Lanka as a honeymoon destination

The 12th Century Rock Fortress Highly recommended Sigiriya- for the adventurous couple

one of the most upcoming travel destinations following the end of the thirty-year long civil war in 2009. The much deserved attention spurts from the fact that as tiny as this island may be, it has managed the impossibility of being able to provide almost every form of indulgence that any visitor could possibly ever imagine of. From the lush green tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya to the untouched stretches of beaches along its southern coasts, or the fun-filled wildlife reserves of Pinnawala to the rock fortress of Sigriya, Sri Lanka leaves no wishes unfulfilled. And so, for the couples who are vacillating between honeymoon destinations that would satisfy your polar-opposite choices, Sri

The bridal weddingalogue

here goes an old saying that marriages are made in heaven.

Heaven, however, in its literal sense is not yet accessible to us mortals. But there is a certain kind of comfort in the knowledge that there exist places on this earthly world that would provide the perfect heavenly backdrop for the ones hoping to enter the bliss of marriage this season. One such place rests on the chest of our neighboring Indian Ocean.

Known fondly as the ‘tear drop of India’ due to its geographic shape and location, Sri Lanka’s unbelievable pristine beauty would be the only reason that would elicit tear drops from its visitors. This tropical island has captured the world’s attention as

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The All Saints' Church inside Galle Fort

Lanka is the absolute place to be. essence to make the momentarily arrival of the first European A two and half hour flight away distracted traveler believe that it may colonisers to ‘Ceylon’, Sri Lanka’s from Dhaka is Colombo, the still be the 16th century, or that he ancient name. Titled “The bustling capital of Sri Lanka with its or she has accidentally stepped into Portuguese Arriving in Ceylon fancy restaurants, hotels and spas, a time machine. A stay inside the Under a Cloud” and sculpted by one most of which are concentrated charming Galle Fort is highly of Sri Lanka’s most prominent along the Galle Face area. For a recommended, and prices vary that artists Laki Sennanayake, it is a couple however, a much more apt suit all forms of budget, with depiction of a somewhat liberally destination would be the Dutch-built Peddlar’s Inn and Mango Tree assumed history in its most engaging Galle Fort at form. But for you Sri Lanka is star-studded with some of the best and your special Galle. Situated at Sri Lanka’s one, Lighthouse resorts in the world, but what makes the southern tip, this Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel at Galle so special is Hotel’s dinner inscribed along the beach at its natural setting UNESCO World evening while the Heritage Site is a two hour ride away House being most couple’s favorites. waves lap at your feet should be an from Colombo. This Dutch Fort is a If however, you are hoping to absolute must. Sri Lanka is marvel of the perfect representation splurge further and cherish complete star-studded with some of the best of the past. The Fort has solitude, situated about a 20-minutes resorts in the world, but what makes successfully preserved most of its ride away from the Galle Fort is the the Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel at 16th century Dutch buildings, but Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel. Designed Galle so special is its natural setting. yet adapting them to the needs of

by Sri Lanka’s pioneer architect What greater joy is there than to sit the modern traveler. What once was Geoffrey Bawa, this hotel has with the one you promised your a Dutch trading house is now where become an international icon that infinity to while staring into nature’s you and your loved one may sit and faces the Indian Ocean, creating an own infinity of the ocean? The hotel enjoy a cup of coffee, while staring illusion as if being part of the also contains a swimming pool, the into the oblivion of the Indian mighty waves that crash onto it setting of which can be most aptly Ocean framed by the remnants of relentlessly. The central attraction of described as continuously teasing the the Dutch fortifications. Galle Fort’s this masterpiece, however, is a Indian Ocean beside which it is set. winding cobbled streets still hold sculptural staircase that depicts the At the fringe of both the Light 112

Peddlar's Inn Restaurant Galle Fort

House Hotel and Galle Fort is the pristine beach of Unawatana. The sandy white shores and the evergreen coconut trees dote on the horizon, while corals line the restless waters of the Indian Ocean. Here travelers will find options for fun filled activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and boat riding and well-qualified trainers for the activities.

Accommodation options are expensive along the beach side, and a more intelligent choice would be to stay in Galle Fort and take the 30-minute ride to Unawatana. Sri Lanka’s phenomenal beaches have become part of its national identity but what sets Unawatana apart from the rest would be the mythological stories associated with it.

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Mentioned explicitly in the epic saga of love and battle, the Ramayana, legends say that the protruding land visible from the Unuwatana beach is the chunk that fell when the Hindu mythological monkey-God Hanuman carried an entire mountain to try and save the wounded Lakshman.

Paradise is not made only by the physical beauty of the world; paradise is a state of being. But when the incorporeal meets the perfect earthly setting, it culminates to a point where heaven seems to truly exist on earth.

While you seek the very best in the world to offer to your loved one, let Sri Lanka paint the backdrop of paradise that you wish to enter with your better half.

The Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel - Exterior

Unilever down to Zero

UBL factory scores a ZERO on waste

Unilever Bangladesh has recently announced that the Company’s factory in Kalurghat, Chittagong produces zero waste to landfill. The local unit joins the league of Unilever’s global factories, 100% of which are zero waste to landfill sites.

The Company undertook some audacious environmental targets under the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan (USLP) launched in 2010. Eliminating waste to landfill was one part of the plan which aims to reduce the Company’s environmental impact across its value chain.

“Our factories play a major role in achieving this target. A lot of waste is generated regularly in our manufacturing processes – be it fuel waste, chemical or food waste and even packaging waste,” says Aminur Rahman, Supply Chain Director, Unilever Bangladesh.

Over the years, Unilever Bangladesh’s Kalurghat factory has taken focused steps to transform into a Zero Waste to landfill site. In 2015 this dream became a reality with the factory recycling and reusing all the waste that would otherwise go into landfill.

The food waste generated on site – be it from the canteen or kitchen waste – is composted and used for gardening in and around the factory. This helps cut down the environmental impact of 116

Launched in 2010, the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan is Unilever’s blueprint for sustainable growth. The Plan is helping to drive profitable growth, reduce costs and fuel innovation. The Plan sets out three big goals.

1. IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELL-BEING for more than 1 BILLION By 2020 2. REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT of making and use of our products by 1/2 by 2020 3. ENHANCING LIVELIHOODS for MILLIONS By 2020 as we grow our business.

By the end of 2014, four years into the USLP, Unilever Bangladesh has, • helped 17.8 MILLION people to improve their hygiene habits with the Lifebuoy hand washing program • provided safe drinking water to 1.4 MILLION people with Pureit • completely ELIMINATED waste to landfill from their factory in Kalurghat, Chittagong • HALVED water consumption in manufacturing at their Kalurghat factory, compared to 2008 levels To learn more about the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan please visit www.unilever.com.bd

the waste as well as beautifying the factory surroundings.

Process waste from manufacturing glycerin – has also been systematically reduced. The raw material used has been suitably changed to lower waste generation in production. The lower amount of waste produced is being recycled through several initiatives such as selling it as an input to a low grade soap producer. As a result, glycerine waste has been eliminated completely.

The other major source of waste, raw material and packaging material waste, was reduced mainly through employee generated ideas. Ideas crowdsourced from the employees helped reduce laminate waste alone to 50% of 2008 levels.

Unilever Bangladesh remains passionate about their efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their manufacturing process. “In addition to eliminating waste we have also halved the consumption of water in our manufacturing process,” Aminur Rahman informs “we are also working towards reducing our energy consumption and carbon dioxide emission. These are our small actions to give back to the community we operate in.”

Address House: 15 3rd (Floor), Advance Golory Road: Bashundhara Main Road, Block : A, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka : 1213 Contact: 01767-695074, 01713-109065

Prito Reza becomes PPAC’s Bangladesh Ambassador Professional Photographers Asia Community (PPAC) has declared professional photographer Prito Reza as its PPAC Bangladesh Ambassador from 2015-December 2017. In recognition of his achievements he will be introduced to the members and participants in the PPAC Annual Conference which will be held in January 13-14, 2016.

Reza will also receive the Ambassador Certificate and celebrate with the Award Winners.

Six Seasons’ 2nd Anniversary Six Seasons Hotel celebrates its second anniversary with its most valuable guests.

Top 50 clients were invited to an evening of live music, desserts and an endless premium menu. Guests were treated in a cocktail-style at Six Seasons' picturesque infinity swimming pool followed by the grand dinner in the gorgeous Greesho Hall.

With further additions and unique concepts in development, Six Seasons Hotel's third anniversary promises to be even more spectacular.

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Aura Beauty Lounge’s first anniversary ura Beauty Lounge celebrated their first anniversary. Owners of the beauty lounge Moeen Tariq, beauty expert Nishat Adnan Tariq, partner Mahdin Tariq, photographer Rafiqul Islam Raf and many actors and models were present at the event. Aura beauty lounge specializes in all kinds of services including bridal, makeup, party makeup, facial, hair and body treatments, hairstyling,manicures, pedicures, nails as well as high-end spa.

BRAC Bank’s webcast on value-based banking Dhaka, Thursday, October 29, 2015: BRAC Bank Limited organised a live webcast to discuss the role of values-based banking in creating positive economic, social and environmental impact at head office of the bank as part of banking on values campaign of the Global Alliance for 124

Banking on Values (GABV). The event’s interactive discussion panel included Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director & CEO, Mohammad Mamdudur Rashid, Deputy Managing Director, Fatema Rizwana, Head of Human Resources and Zara Jabeen Mahbub, Head of Communication & Service Quality, BRAC Bank Limited.

Group Art Exhibition at Peda Ting Ting Café Gallery, Gulshan A joint art exhibition of artists Iskindar Mirza and Mazharul Islam took place at the Peda Ting Ting Café Gallery last month. The exhibition titled ‘Anamnesis’ was inaugurated by renowned artist Kanak Chanpa Chakma. Md. Abdul Aziz, Assistant Professor and the former chairman of Oriental Art department, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka was also present there as the guest of honour.

Home n décor’s anniversary sale

This exhibition features two artists with very different bodies of work. Iskindar, a graduate of the Institute of Fine Arts, took audience on a time travel to old Dhaka through his watercolor paintings; especially his horse paintings would remind you of the traditional lifestyle of old Dhaka.

Mazhar, the other artist does not have any institutional education on fine arts but has a passion to express himself through his paintings.

Dark emotions, sufferings and complexities of everyday life become visible in his abstract work.

home n décor and bti customer club members can avail an extra 5% off from the discounted price as a token of gratitude from home n décor.

Home n Décor, the largest Home n décor hosts a large assortment of home home retail of the country, is accessories and essentials. Starting from beautiful celebrating its first decoration pieces to the simplest kitchen mitts to anniversary with a fantastic microwave ovens. sale on a large number of For a shopping experience that will delight you, accessories. Around 750 items head over to home n décor and enjoy its stunning will be on discounts ranging interior décor, spaciousness and warm ambience from 5-50% off the regular along with this mega sale while it lasts. price! This offer is going on For location or any other info, please call full swing and will last till +8801777719777. Regular store hours :11 am- 8 15th November. Privilege pm. Closed on Wednesdays only.Sale : 22nd card & loyalty card holders of October – 15th November 2015

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