Bihanga March-April 2018

In-flight magazine of Biman Bangladesh Airlines

Mar - Apr 2018 Vol 5 Issue 2

INSIDE update Bangladesh is set to celebrate its independence day

Cultural crossroad Kuala Lumpur is coming into its own

CEO’s

Note

Increasing connectivity A M Mosaddique Ahmed Managing Director & CEO (Biman Bangladesh Airlines)

Welcome 2

onboard and thank you for choosing Biman Bangladesh Airlines. We are continuing with our efforts to enhance your travel experience. I am happy to share some of the new services that we are going to launch in the coming days. Chittagong, the country’s second largest city, will be connected with Cox’s Bazar three days a week from the summer schedule commencing on March 25. We have also increased our weekly flight frequency between Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar from 7 to 10. Number of weekly flights between Dhaka and Jessore has increased from 7 to 8 and between Dhaka and Barishal from 2 to 3.

From the summer schedule Biman will also launch 2 flights a week from Sylhet to Dubai and once a week flight from Muscat to Sylhet. This will make the journey of our guests travelling on these routes more enjoyable. Please visit www.biman-airlines. com for more information and to manage your travel conveniently.

26 March is our Independence Day. We pay our rich tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and to the martyrs of the liberation war.

¯^vMZ| wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvB݇K †e‡Q †bIqvi Rb¨ Avcbv‡K A‡kl ab¨ev`| Avcbvi åg‡Yi AwfÁZv‡K Av‡iv mg„× Ki‡Z Avgv‡`i †Póv Ae¨vnZ i‡q‡Q| mvg‡bi w`b¸‡jv‡Z Avgiv †h mKj bZzb †mev wb‡q Avm‡Z hvw”Q †m¸‡jv Rvbv‡Z †c‡i Avwg hvicibvB Avbw›`Z| Avmbœ MÖx‡®§i wkwWD‡j †`‡ki wØZxq e„nËg kni L¨vZ PÆMÖv‡gi m‡½ K·evRv‡ii GLb †_‡K mßv‡n wZb w`b d¬vBU Pvjy _vK‡e, hv ïiæ n‡e 25 gvP© 2018 †_‡K| G QvovI XvKv-K·evRvi iæ‡U Avgiv Avgv‡`i mvßvwnK d¬vBU msL¨v mvZ †_‡K evwo‡q `kwU K‡iwQ| XvKv-h‡kvi iæ‡U d¬vBU msL¨v mvZ †_‡K AvU Ges XvKvewikv‡j `ywU †_‡K wZbwU d¬vBU Kiv n‡q‡Q|

We are pleased to inform you about the increasing connectivity of flights, enabling seamless travel across the nation & beyond

As we welcome the Bengali New Year and as the summer sets in, the fragrant flowers and delicious seasonal fruits declare the advent of “Boisakh”. The foliage of herbs and trees is fresh and green and blossoms appear in their fragrance and loveliness.

I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to visit Bangladesh and discover the lovely grace of the bewitching beauty and enjoy the glorious traditional hospitality.

On the behalf of all the employees of Biman, thank you once again for putting your faith on us. Have an enjoyable flight.

Mar - APR 2018

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G QvovI Avgiv wm‡jU-`yevB-wm‡jU iæ‡U mßv‡n `ywU d¬vBU Pvjy Ki‡Z hvw”Q| GKBm‡½ gv¯‹U-wm‡j‡U Avm‡Q mßv‡n GKwU d¬vBU| Gi d‡j GB iæU¸‡jv‡Z Avgv‡`i AwZw_‡`i ågY n‡e Av‡iv Dc‡fvM¨| Av‡iv Z_¨ Rvb‡Z I åg‡Yi UzwKUvwKi e‡›`ve¯Í Ki‡Z wfwRU Kiæb www.biman-airlines.com| 26 gvP© Avgv‡`i ¯^vaxbZv w`em| Avgiv Avgv‡`i RvwZi RbK e½eÜz †kL gywRei ingvb I gyw³hy‡×i gnvb knx`‡`i cÖwZ RvbvB Mfxi kÖ×v|

Avi MÖx‡®§i GB cÖv°v‡j Avgiv ¯^vMZ RvbvB evsjv beel©‡K| dz‡ji myNªvY I my¯^v`y †gŠmygx d‡ji myev‡m BwZg‡a¨B ˆekv‡Li AvMgYx evZ©v Rvbvb w`‡”Q| jZv¸j¥ †m‡R‡Q bZzb Kuywo‡Z| kvLvq kvLvq cÖù‚wUZ dy‡ji ¸”Q Qwo‡q w`‡”Q Zv‡`i myevm I †mŠ›`h©| GB myev‡` Avwg Avcbv‡`i evsjv‡`k åg‡Yi Avgš¿Y RvbvB| Ae‡jvKb Kiæb GLvbKvi Acvi gwngv I g‡bvgy»Ki †mŠ›`h©| Avi Dc‡fvM Kiæb GLvbKvi Hk¦h©gwÊZ AvwZ‡_qZv| Avgv‡`i Ici Av¯’v ivLvi Rb¨ wegv‡bi mKj Kg©KZ©v-Kg©x‡`i c¶ †_‡K Avcbv‡K Avev‡iv ab¨ev` Rvbvw”Q| Avcbvi hvÎv wbivc` I Avivg`vqK †nvK!

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd. CHAIRMAN: Air Marshal (rtd.) Muhammad Enamul Bari Managing Director & CEO: A M Mosaddique Ahmed DIRECTOR MARKETING & SALES: Mohd. Ali Ahsan GENERAL MANAGER PUBLIC RELATIONS: Shakil Meraj

Subcontinental Media Private Limited CEO & Managing Director Prakash Johari Director Vikas Johari Editor Abhishek Chakraborty

International Sales Offices Europe

London | David Simpson, Simpson Media Ltd Tel: +44 79 0088 5456, E-mail: david@simpson-media.com France l Nicolas Devos, IMM International Tel: +33 01 4013 7906, Fax: +33 01 4013 0033

Bangladesh Subcontinental Media Private Limited Registered Address Profficio 2nd Floor, 4 Mohakhali Commercial Area, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh Tel: +880 1862260427 Email: info@subcontinentalmedia.com shohedul@subcontinentalmedia.com

India Subcontinental Media Group Private Limited Registered Address #TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India CIN: U22219DL2011PTC223957 Advertising (Delhi): sales@subcontinentalmedia.com Tel: +91 11 43011111

Accounts & Billing: jatin@subcontinentalmedia.com

Editorial: bihanga@subcontinentalmedia.com

Careers: careers@subcontinentalmedia.com

Information: info@subcontinentalmedia.com

Russia/Switzerland | Gleb Korotkov, Halfbudget Tel: + 7 9852243800, +41 767102525, Email: info@halfbudget.com Italy | Stefanie Meierfrankenfeld, G+J International Sales Italy Srl, Tel: +39 02 2052 6720, E-mail: meierfrankenfeld.stefanie@guj.de Germany | Stefanie Trevas, Gruner +Jahr AG & Co KG Tel: +49 40 3703 2944, E-mail: treves.stefanie@guj.de Turkey | Tan Bilge Media Ltd Tel: +90 0 21 2275 8433, Fax: +90 0 21 2275 9228, E-mail: tanbilge@medialtd.com.tr Cyprus & Greece | Spiros Trivolis STA-Spiros Trivolis and Associates Ltd Mob: +30 69 4427 6555 E-mail: strivolis@sta.com.gr

NORTH America

Canada | Wayne Saint John, The New Base Tel +1 41 6363 1388, Fax +1 41 6363 2889, E-mail: wayne.stjohn@thenewbase.com USA | Maxposure Media Group LLC, 22 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 108, Mineola, New York 11501 Phone: +1 646 3672 916 E-mail: info@maxposuremedia.com New York | Huson International Media Tel: +21 2268 3344 Fax: +91 7210 2989 E-mail: francesco.lascari@husonmedia.com

africa

Egypt | Omar Khalifa, O Media Publishing Mob: +20 1000031102 E-mail: okhalifa@omedia.com

MIDDLE EAST

UAE | Maxposure Arabia FZ LLC Dubai Media City, Building No. 8, Ground Floor, Premises No. EO10, Dubai, UAE, P.O. Box 502068 Mob: +971 582063140, Tel: +971 4431 0793 E-mail: majid@maxposuremedia.com Bahrain | Maxposure Marketing Services WLL Suite No. 652, 6th Floor, The Lounge Serviced Offices, Building 247, Road No 1704, Diplomatic Area, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, P.O. Box 11409 Mob: +973 37778537, +973 37161313, Tel: +973 1751 8793, E-mail: aaliyah@maxposuremedia.com

far east

Singapore | Maxposure Global Pte Ltd 51 Goldhill Plaza, #07-10/11, Singapore 308900 Tel: +65 3163 2622, E-mail: info@maxposuremedia.com Malaysia | Shallie Cheng Mind Sense Sdn. Bhd. Tel: +60 1 2287 3092, E-mail: shalliecheng@gmail.com Japan | Michiko Kawano Pacific Business Inc. Tel: +81 03 3661 6138, Fax: +81 03 3661 6139, E-mail: kawano-pbi@gol.com Sri Lanka | Maxposure Media Group E-mail: maninder@maxposuremedia.com South Korea | Jung-Won Suh Sinsegi Media Inc. Tel: +82 2785 8222, Fax: 82 2785 8225, E-mail: sinsegi-2@sinsegimedia.info Thailand | Stephen Marsh Media Representation International Tel: +66 2204 2699, Mob: +66 867773417, E-mail: stephen@mediarepint.com

Bihanga is a bimonthly, bilingual (English & Bangla) in-flight magazine of Biman Bangladesh Airlines. It is published by Subcontinental Media Private Limited (SMPL) for Biman Bangladesh Airlines at: Profficio 2nd Floor, 4 Mohakhali Commercial Area, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh. This is a free copy for in-flight reading only. All rights reserved. The writing, artwork and/or photography contained herein may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of SMPL. SMPL/Biman does not assume responsibility for loss or damage of unsolicited products, manuscripts, photographs, artwork, transparencies or other materials. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines or SMPL. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from. SMPL/Biman Bangladesh airlines does not assume any liability for services or products advertised herein.

http://www.subcontinentalmedia.com/ Simply scan this QR code from your smartphone which contains the URL of our website.

CONTENTS

Celebrating Diversity

28

D`hvcb Ki“b ˆewPΨ

cyi‡bv ¯’vcZ¨‰kjx, Abe`¨ Lvevi I GKwU my›`i ms¯‹…wZ, G me wg‡j Kzqvjvjvgcyi n‡q‡Q Gwkqvi Aek¨ `k©bxq ¯’vb

36 the Fishermen's Island Bordering the picturesque Sundarbans forest is a beautiful island called Dublar Char

†R‡j‡`i Øxcœ

my›`ie‡bi wKbviv †Nu‡l Av‡Q GK Awb›`¨ my›`i Øxc: `yejvi Pi

Mar - APR 2018

Bihanga received Award for Photography at the 2017 Association of Business Communicators of India (ABCI) Awards.

Old architecture, fabulous food and a beautiful culture make Kuala Lumpur a must-visit place in Asia

42 Deep blue

These vistas of these lakes, seas, beaches and bays range from brilliant navy blues to the clearest turquoises

bx‡ji ivR¨

GB †jK, mvMi, ˆmKZ Avi Lvwo¸‡jv‡Z wgj‡e Ggb Qov‡bv `„k¨cU, hv‡Z Avcbvi Kíbvi Mvp bxj †_‡K G‡Kev‡i nvjKv bxj I ¯^”Q wd‡ivRv i‡Oi †`Lv wgj‡e

leisure

update

58 Jewel of Paharpur

16 Checklist/

/cvnvocyi:

†PKwj÷

ancient Buddhist

A world of travel news to

monasteries, Paharpur

help you plan your next

serves as a centre for three

voyage.

major religions of the world

Mig‡K Qvwc‡q µ‡gB M‡R© DV‡Q el©v| Avi Avb›`Nb G †gŠmygUv‡K cy‡ivgvÎvq Dc‡fvM Kiæb

24

24 Independence Day/

¯^vaxbZvi w`b

cÖvPxbZg †eŠ× gw›`i¸‡jvi g‡a¨ GKwU Av‡Q cvnvocy‡i| mycÖvPxb wZb a‡g©i Abymvix‡`i GKwU †K›`ª n‡q Av‡Q GB A›”j 24 hours

Parades, political

8

GK AùzU iZ

Home to one of the most

66 Tokyo Diaries/

speeches, fairs, concerts

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and ceremonies are part

Tokyo is one of the

and parcel of the day

world’s most modern

PjwZ eQi evsjv‡`‡ki gvbyl 47Zg ¯^vaxbZv w`em cvjb Ki‡e

cities in terms of its infrastructure and design

bRiKvov bKkv Ges AeKvVv‡gvMZ w`K †_‡K we‡k¦i Ab¨Zg AaywbK kni Rvcv‡bi ivRavbx †UvwKI

adventure 48 Plumbing the depths of Oman/

48

regular

gvcyb, Igv‡bi MfxiZv

02. CEO's Note

Oman’s spectacular diving

GwWU‡ii K_v 10. Biman News

locations offer a rich and

ågY Z_¨

thrilling aquatic tapestry

64. Tarot

Igv‡bi †PvL auvav‡bv WvBwfs †jv‡Kkb¸‡jv †g‡j a‡i‡Q GK RgKv‡jv I †ivgvÂKi R‡ji mgvnvi| Avi Av‡Q cÖvq A¶Z ZU‡iLv culture 54 Celebrate Boishakh/

D`hvcb Kiæb ˆekvL The people of Bangladesh

fwel¨ØvYx 76. Biman Offices wegvb Kvh©vjq

54 66

36

77. Fleet Guide wegvbeni wb‡`©wkKv 78. Routes iæU

Bihanga means...

and colourful festivals

...a bird in Bangla. It is often used in literary writings. As Biman Bangladesh Airlines is being reborn, reinvented and soaring to new heights, we felt this was the most symbolic name for Biman’s new in-flight magazine, and so will our customers.

evsjv‡`‡ki gvby‡liv beel©‡K ¯^vMZ Rvbvq cÖej AvZ¥wek¦vm I ewY©j me Drm‡ei ga¨ w`‡q

evsjv fvlvq wen½ cvwLi c«wZkã, GwU c«vqkB mvwn‡Z¨ e¨eüZ n‡q Avm‡Q| wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ beRb¥ ‡c‡q bZyb K‡i hvÎv ïiæ K‡i‡Q Ges bZyb GK D”PZv jvf K‡i‡Q, ZvB Avgiv Abyfe KiwQ wegv‡bi bZyb Bbd¬vBU g¨vMvwR‡bi Rb¨ GUvB ‡miv c«ZxKx bvg, Avi Avgiv wbwðZ Avgv‡`i M«vnKiv GwU c‡o Avb›` cv‡eb|

welcome the Bangla New Year with much aplomb

Mar - APR 2018

Cover story

explore

CULTURE

adventure

LEISURE

24 Hours

UPDATE

Sky Update

¯‹vB Avc‡WU

Celebrating 46th Anniversary of Biman

On the occasion of the 46th founding anniversary of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, a cake cutting ceremony on behalf of the Biman Management and Biman Sramik Legue (CBA) was held at Balaka on January 4, 2018 .

wegv‡bi 46Zg cªwZôv evwl©Kx D`hvcb

wegv‡bi 46Zg cªwZôvevwl©Kx Dcj‡¶ MZ 4 Rvbyqvwi 2018 Zvwi‡L wegvb cªavb Kvh©vjq, ejvKvq wegvb e¨e¯’vcbv I wegvb kªwgK jxM (wmweG)-Gi c¶ †_‡K †KK †K‡U cªwZôvevwl©Kx D`hvcb Kiv nq|

Marketing Conference-2018

Air Marshal Muhammad Enamul Bari, BBP, ndu, psc (retd.), honorable Chairman, Biman Board of Directors addressed the Marketing Conference as the Chief Guest. All Country/District Managers participated in the four-day-long conference held at Balaka from January 28 to February 1 2018.

gv‡K©wUs Kbdv‡iÝ-2018

wegv‡bi gv‡K©wUs Kbdv‡iÝ 2018-‡Z cªavb AwZw_ wnmv‡e e³e¨ iv‡Lb wegvb cwiPvjbv cl©‡`i gvbbxq †Pqvig¨vb Gqvi gvk©vj gynv¤§` Bbvgyj evix, wewewc, GbwWBD, wcGmwm (Aet)| wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvB‡Ýi cªavb Kvh©vjq ejvKvq 28‡k Rvbyqvwi †_‡K 01jv †de«yqvwi 2018 ch©š— AbywôZ Kbdv‡i‡Ý wegv‡bi mKj ‰e‡`wkK I Af¨š—ixY †ók‡bi Kvw›U«/‡Rjv e¨e¯’vcKMY Ask †bb|

Mar - Apr 2018

Cover story

explore

adventure

CULTURE

LEISURE

24 Hours

UPDATE

A digital dimension

Biman Bangladesh Airlines recently launched "Biman Holidays" wing, aiming to provide all travel solution in a single platform. Air Marshal Muhammad Enamul Bari, BBP, ndu, psc (retd.) Chairman, Board of Directors, formally inaugurated the holidays wing of the airlines. Managing Director & CEO of Biman A M Mosaddique Ahmed and Travel Shop Executive Chairman Group Captain Nazmul Anam (retd.) were also present on the occasion.

åg‡Yi M‡í wWwRUvj gvÎv

wegvb cwiPvjbv cl©‡`i gvbbxq †Pqvig¨vb Gqvi gvk©vj gynv¤§` Bbvgyj evix, wewewc, GbwWBD, wcGmwm (Aet) Ges wegv‡bi e¨e¯’vcbv cwiPvjK I wmBI G Gg †gvmvwÏK Avn‡g`mn wegvb I wegvb nwj‡WR Gi Kg©KZ©vMY †KK KvUvi ga¨ w`‡q wegv‡bi nwj‡W DBs ÔÔwegvb nwj‡WRÕÕ Gi Awdwmqvj I‡qemvBU D‡Øvab K‡ib|

International Mother Language Day

Biman officials and employees placed a flower bouquet at the Central Shaheed Minar on February 21, 2018 on the occasion of the International Mother Language Day.

Avš—Rv© wZK gvZ…fvlv w`em

Avš—R©vwZK gvZ…fvlv w`em I RvZxq knx` w`em Dcj‡¶ wegv‡bi c¶ †_‡K 21‡k †de«yqvwi 2018 cª_g cªn‡i fvlv knx`‡`i ¯^i‡Y †K›`«xq knx` wgbv‡i cy®ú ¯—eK Ac©b Kiv nq|

Vatican ambassador's arrival at the head office of Biman

Honorable Ambassador of the Vatican to Bangladesh Archbishop George Kocherry handed over the picture of the Holy Pope Flight to A M Mosaddique Ahmed, MD & CEO of Biman on February 11, 2018.

wegvb cÖavb Kvh©vj‡q f¨vwUKvb Gi ivó«`‡~ Zi AvMgb

evsjv‡`‡k wbhy³ f¨vwUK¨v‡bi gvb¨ei ivó«`~Z MZ 11 †de«yqvwi, 2018 Zvwi‡L wegvb c«avb Kvh©vjq G nwj †cvc d¬vB‡U aviYK…Z wegvb Awdwmqvj I µyM‡Yi Qwe (w¯’iwPÎ) wegv‡bi GgwW I wmBI G Gg †gvmvwÏK Avn‡g`-Gi wbKU n¯—vš—i K‡ib|

First Biman Bangladesh Golf Tournament-2014

Chairman, Biman Board of Director Air Marshal Muhammad Enamul Bari, BBP, ndu, psc (retd.) attended the closing ceremony of the 1st Biman Bangladesh Golf Tournament as the Chief Guest and presented the Championship Trophy to the winner Asaduzzaman Lipon.

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PÆMªvg¯’ kvnxb Mjd I Kvw›U« K¬ve KZ©…K A‡qvwRZ 23 I 24 †de«yqvwi 2018 Zvwi‡L AbywôZ cª_g wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ Mjd U~Y©v‡g›U-Gi P¨vw¤úqb Avmv`y¾vgvb wjc‡bi nv‡Z U«wd Zy‡j †`b wegvb cwiPvjbv cl©‡`i gvbbxq †Pqvig¨vb Gqvi gvk©vj gynv¤§` Bbvgyj evix, wewewc,GbwWBD,wcGmwm(Aet)|

Mar - Apr 2018

In-Flight Services

Bb-d¬vBU ‡mevmg~n

Biman has designed all menus to reflect the fresh, innovative cuisine of Bangladeshi culture with Western flair. Enjoy the comfort and service on-board your next flight. evsjv‡`‡ki cÖPwjZ Lvev‡ii m‡½ cvðv‡Z¨i Lvev‡ii bZyb D™¢vebx wg‡k‡j wegvb me ai‡bi ‡gby mvwR‡q‡Q| Avcbvi cieZ©x d¬vB‡U wegv‡b D‡V Gme Av‡qk Avi ‡mev Dc‡fvM Kiyb|

Breakfast Menu A range of fresh fruit juice offered in addition to sodas, cheese omelette, sautéed mushroom, croissant, fresh roll, butter, jam, tea and coffee.

Lunch Menu Garden salad with freshly picked seasonal vegetables.

‡Kvgj cvbxq, wPR Ag‡jU, m‡Z Kiv gvkiæg, µqmu, UvUKv ‡ivj, gvLb, R¨vg, Pv I Kwdi m‡½ wewfbœ d‡ji ZvRv Rym|

jv ‡gby

Main Course

m`¨ evMvb ‡_‡K msM«n Kiv ‡gŠmywg kvKmewRi m‡½ Mv‡W©b m¨vjvW|

Chicken curry served with most unique fragrant rice from the nation’s own harvest, assorted seasonal vegetables sautéed, garnished with lemon and green chilli.

GB ‡`‡k Drcvw`Z me‡P‡q ¯^Kxq myMwÜ Pvj w`‡q ‰Zwi ivB‡mi m‡½ wP‡Kb Kvwi, wewfbœ ai‡bi ‡gŠmywg kvKmewRi fvwR, ‡jey Ges KvuPv gwiP|

Dessert Rice pudding flavoured with rose water and garnished with fresh scrambled nuts.

Dinner Menu

14

‡e«Kdv÷ ‡gby

Salad Fruit salad with freshly picked seasonal fruit.

Main Course Lamb curry served with fine grain rice cooked with moong dal, assorted seasonal vegetables sautéed, garnished with green chilli, butter-naan (in tandoor).

‡gBb ‡Kvm©

wgóvbœ (‡WRvU©) ev`vg w`‡q mvRv‡bv ‡MvjvcR‡ji myN«vYmg…× myMwÜ Pv‡j ‰Zwi cv‡qk|

wWbvi ‡gby mvjv` m`¨ msM«n Kiv ‡gŠmywg d‡ji ˆZix d«yU mvjv`|

‡gBb ‡Kvm© wPKb Pv‡ji fv‡Zi m‡½ ‡fovi ‡Mv‡¯Íi Kvwi, gyM Wvj, wewfbœ ‡gŠmywg kvKmewRi fvwR, mvRv‡bvi Rb¨ KvuPv gwiP, evUvi-bvb (Z›`y‡i ‰Zwi Kiv)|

Dessert

wgóvbœ (‡WRvU©)

Caramel custard garnished with canned peach.

wUbRvZ wcPd‡j mvRv‡bv K¨viv‡gj Kv÷vW©|

* Complementary beverage is served with all meals, and is available anytime on request.

* ‡h ‡Kvb ‡ejvi Lvev‡ii m‡½ ‡mŠRb¨g~jK cvbxq cwi‡ekb Kiv nq, Ges ‡h ‡Kvb mgq PvB‡jI cvIqv hvq

Incorporating suggestions from many of its travellers, Biman has the most creative menu you’ll find in the air. For the outbound flight from Dhaka, all the foods are carefully prepared by the Biman Flight Catering Centre (BFCC). BFCC proudly offers Flight Catering Services to many other airlines in the foot print. Unquestionably, the menus still taste wonderful at 30,000 feet. ågYKvix‡`i KvQ †_‡K cvIqv A‡bK A‡bK civgk© †hvM Kivi d‡j DÇq‡bi mgq Avcwb wegv‡bi †gbyUv‡KB me‡P‡q m„Rbkxj e‡j Avwe®‹vi Ki‡eb| XvKv †Q‡o evB‡i hvIqvi mgq Gi me Lvevi Lye mZK©Zvi m‡½ ˆZwi K‡i wegvb d¬vBU K¨vUvwis †m›Uvi (weGdwmwm)| Ab¨vb¨ AviI A‡bK GqvijvB‡ÝI M‡e©i m‡½ K¨vUvwis †mev w`‡q Avm‡Q weGdwmwm| Avi IB †gbyi ¯^v` 30,000 dzU Dc‡iI _vK‡e GK`g AUzU! Send your feedback to: customerrelations@bdbiman.com Biman Bangladesh Airlines provides quick & efficient check-in, advance check-in, lounge access, and handling facilities for unaccompanied minor. It provides cargo services worldwide, besides offering Ground Handling facilities to all the airports in Bangladesh. For duty free products, check the brochure available on the flight. wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ `ªæZ I `¶ ‡PK-Bb, AvMvg ‡PK-Bb, jvDÄ A¨vK‡mm Ges ågY-m½xnxb Ac«vßeq¯‹‡`i Rb¨ we‡kl n¨vÛwjs‡qi gZ myweav w`‡q _v‡K| evsjv‡`‡ki me wegvbe›`‡i M«vDÛ n¨vÛwjs myweav QvovI GwU wek¦e¨vcx gvjvgvj cwien‡Yi ‡mev c«`vb K‡i _v‡K| wWDwU wd« c‡Y¨i wel‡q Z_¨ Rvbvi Rb¨ d¬vB‡U ‡h e«wkIi cvIqv hvq ‡mwU ‡`L‡Z cv‡ib|

Mar - Apr 2018

Cover story

explore

CULTURE

adventure

LEISURE

24 Hours

UPDATE

Checklist A world of travel news to help you plan your next voyage

†PKwj÷

Mig‡K Qvwc‡q µ‡gB M‡R© DV‡Q el©v| Avi Avb›`Nb G †gŠmygUv‡K cy‡ivgvÎvq Dc‡fvM Kiæb shopping Malaysia Super Sale

Shop till you drop! A thrice yearly nationwide shopping extravaganza, the 1Malaysia Super Sale will let visitors enjoy massive discounts on a range of products and is all set to make Malaysia a world-class shopping destination for domestic and international tourists alike.

When: March 1-31 Where: Across Malaysia

16

gvj‡qwkqv mycvi †mj

hZ¶Y `g Av‡Q, Pvwj‡q hvb †KbvKvUv! eQ‡i wZbevi Av‡qvwRZ RvZxq †KbvKvUvi g‡nvrme GB Iqvb-gvj‡qwkqv myc vi †mj-G Avm‡jB †µZviv cv‡eb GKMv`v c‡Y¨ `vi“Y me Qvo| hvi gva¨‡g gvj‡qwkqv n‡q DV‡Z cv‡i ¯’ vbxq I Avš— R © vwZK ch©UK‡`i Kv‡Q GKwU wek¦ g v‡bi †KbvKvUvi Mš— e¨| K‡e: 1-31 gvP© †Kv_vq: mgMÖ gvj‡qwkqv

food Taste of Dubai

Taste of Dubai brings together Dubai’s favorite food, drink and music festival under the same roof. The 3-day food extravaganza hosts world class celebrity chefs, city’s hottest restaurants, and an incredible line-up of international music.

When: March 8-10 Where: Dubai

†UB÷ Ae `yevB

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MAR - APR 2018

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fiesta MyBalloon Fiesta

MyBalloon Fiesta is the new name for the famous Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. This unique event draws thousands of visitors from around Malaysia and other countries. Coming in all shapes, colours and sizes, this fiesta brings together a range of unique balloons from all over the globe that are guaranteed to offer spectacular visuals.

When: March 9-11 Where: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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18

carnival St Patrick’s Day

The celebration of St Patrick’s Day is marked by a colourful parade that lines the streets of London from Piccadilly to Trafalgar Square.

The parade is accompanied by a stream of traditional musicians and Irish dancers. Visitors can also enjoy the rip-roaring line-up of Irish bands at Trafalgar Square.

When: March 16-18 Where: London

†mB›U c¨vwUªKm †W

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MAR - APR 2018

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celebration Independence Day

Bangladesh will celebrate its 47th Independence Day with music, parades, food and ceremonies. The celebration gets started with a government-sponsored 31gun salute in the memory of soldiers who laid their life for the country.

When: March 26 Where: Bangladesh

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n‡iK c‡`i m½xZ, †kvfvhvÎv, Lvevi I Abyôv‡bi ga¨ w`‡q evsjv‡`k cvjb Ki‡Z hv‡”Q Gi 47Zg ¯^vaxbZv w`em| †`‡ki Rb¨ knx` n‡q‡Qb hviv, Zv‡`i ¯§i‡Y miKvwi D‡`¨v‡M 31wU †ZvcaŸwYi gva¨‡g AvbyôvwbKfv‡e ïi“ n‡e w`emwUi D`hvcb| K‡e: 26 gvP© †Kv_vq: evsjv‡`k

20 Advertorial

A Tradition of Excellence

Anirban Aditya

Aditya Group Chairman

Aditya Group is an organization with a proactive management which is open to innovation and expression of ideas that has played a significant role in its holistic growth and made it a front runner in Education, Health care, Infrastructure development,

MAR - APR 2018

Hospitality and value based services.

The seed of Aditya Academy was sown by Late Mr. Bhaskar Aditya in 1994. Starting with one school, the Group has now six educational institutions running successfully under the leadership of Chairman Mr. Anirban Aditya, and Vice- Chairman Mr. Ankit Aditya.

Aditya Academy Secondary is an English medium co-educational residential-cum-day school run by the Dum Dum Aditya Educational Society, affiliated to CBSE. It is situated at Kadambagachi, Barasat about 15kms from

Kolkata Airport in a serene nature-friendly environment.

The school offers hostel facilities from 2004, separate for boys and girls, to impart quality education within the framework of holistic personality development.

The bright, spacious and air conditioned hostel rooms can accommodate over 500 students with all necessary amenities in campus. Sports being another emphasis, Aditya Academy Secondary is the only school in eastern India with a private stadium and extensive sports facilities. This has enabled students from neighboring states and nations to

come and study at Aditya Academy Secondary.

Facilities

• Medical • Canteen • Health & Hygiene • Security & CCTV

Students Services

• Accommodation • Weekend Boarding for Parents • Counseling • Smart Classes • Evening Classes • The Green Digital Campus • Grievance Solving Units • Labs • Library • Transportation

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Celebrating Independence

¯^vaxbZvi D`hvcb

Bangladesh is set to celebrate its 47th Independence Day this year

PjwZ eQi evsjv‡`‡ki gvbyl 47Zg ¯^vaxbZv w`em cvjb Ki‡e

24 24

Bangladesh

26 gv‡P©

Memory lane

wd‡i †`Lv

celebrates its Independence Day on March 26. Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is said to be the driving force behind this Independence. Addressing a crowd of over 7.5 crore people on March 7, 1971, in Ramna Race Course in Dhaka, Bangabandhu inspired people saying, “This time the struggle is for our freedom. This time the struggle is for our independence.” UNESCO added the 7 March speech in the Memory of the World Register as a “documentary heritage”.

The name of the country was spelt differently back then as ‘Bangla Desh’ and the flag also

Mar - Apr 2018

evsjv‡`‡ki ¯^vaxbZv w`em| RvwZi RbK e½eÜy †kL gywReyi ingvb evOvwji ¯^vaxbZvi WvK w`‡qwQ‡jb| 1971 mv‡ji 7 gvP© XvKvi †mvnivIqv`©x D`¨v‡b (ZrKvjxb †im‡Kvm© gq`vb) ¯^vaxbZvKvgx mv‡o mvZ †KvwU gvbyl‡K hy‡×i cÖ¯‘wZ †bIqvi AvnŸvb Rvwb‡q e½eÜy e‡jwQ‡jb, ÒGev‡ii msMÖvg Avgv‡`i gyw³i msMÖvg-Gev‡ii msMÖvg ¯^vaxbZvi msMÖvg|Ó bq gv‡mi †mB mk¯¿ msMÖv‡gi ci Av‡m evsjv‡`‡ki ¯^vaxbZv| GKvˇii 7 gv‡P© e½eÜy †kL gywReyi ingvb evOvwji ¯^vaxbZvi Wv‡K †h fvlY w`‡qwQ‡jb, †mB fvlY Ôwek¦ cÖvgvY¨ HwZn¨Õ wn‡m‡e BD‡b‡¯‹vi Ô†g‡gvwi Ad `v Iqvì© B›Uvib¨vkbvj †iwR÷v‡iÕ hy³ n‡q‡Q|

IB mgq Bs‡iwR‡Z evsjv‡`‡ki bv‡gi evbvb “Bangla Desh” †jLv n‡Zv| Avi GLb †hLv‡b cZvKvq meyR

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Red and green are the colours of celebration on this day. The essence of this day is all about celebration

Rwg‡b jvj e„‡Ëi Qwe Av‡Q, Av‡M †mLv‡b e„‡Ëi gv‡S †`‡ki GKwU gvbwP‡Îi QweI wQj|

26

jvj mey‡Ri Av‡jvKQUvq

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

resembled a map of the country. The denomination initially was Rupee. It was later changed to the Bangladeshi Taka.

Large celebration

The history and tradition of Bangladesh come alive on Independence Day. The streets are filled with enthusiasts hoisting the national flag. The essence of this day is all about celebration. The streets and houses are filled with sounds of national and patriotic renditions; tributes are payed to the martyrs of Liberation War with the President and Prime Minister laying the wreath on the National Memorial.

Red and green are the colours of celebration on this day. Speeches, fairs, concerts, ceremonies and various other public and private events are organised at different levels to mark grand celebrations all across the nation of Bangladesh.

Mar - Apr 2018

25 gvP© iv‡Z †_‡KB GB w`‡bi D`hvc‡bi cÖ¯ÍywZ ïiæ nq| iv¯Ív f‡i hvq Avjcbvq| †KD gv_vq evuavi Rb¨ †KD m‡½ ivLvi Rb¨, †KDev evwo‡Z Iov‡bvi Rb¨ jvj mey‡Ri cZvKv ‡K‡b| 26 gvP© Nyg fv½‡jB Kv‡b Av‡m †`kvZ¥‡evaK Mv‡bi kã| Pviw`‡K †hb civaxbZvi ‡kKj KvUvi Djøvm| D`hvc‡bi ïiæUv gyw³hy‡×i knx`‡`i ¯§„wZi cÖwZ kÖ×vN© Ac©‡Yi gva¨‡gB ïiæ nq| G‡Z †bZ…Z¡ †`b gnvgvb¨ ivó«cwZ I gvbbxq cÖavbgš¿x| Gici G‡K G‡K me †kÖwY†ckvi gvbyl| knx`‡`i ¯§„wZi cÖwZ m¤§vb Rvbv‡bv †k‡l knx`‡`i †i‡L hvIqv gy³ evsjv‡`‡ki AvKvk evZv‡m Avb‡›`i Xj bv‡g| jvj mey‡Ri †gjv e‡m| XvKvmn mviv †`‡ki mvs¯‹…wZK msMVb¸‡jv wb‡R‡`i g‡Zv K‡i Av‡qvRb K‡i| RvZxq c¨v‡iW MÖvD‡Û m~‡h©v`‡qi m‡½ m‡½ 31 evi †ZvcaŸwYi gva¨‡g w`em D`hvc‡bi m~Pbv nq| evsjv‡`‡ki gvby‡li Gw`b ¶yav _v‡K BwZnvm Rvbvi| ZvB HwZnvwmK ¯’vb¸‡jvq Gw`b †gjv e‡m jvj mey‡Ri| †Kej HwZnvwmK ¯’vb bq, iv¯Ív, gv‡K©U, wm‡bgv nj †_‡K ïiæ K‡i Awj‡Z Mwj‡Z cÖ`k©bx nq| RvZxq w`e‡mi QywUi my‡hv‡M Gw`b mcwievi Ny‡i Avmvi Rb¨ ¯’vb¸‡jv n‡jv ¯§…wZ‡mŠa, RvZxq Rv`yNi, gyw³hy× Rv`yNi, e½eÜy ¯§…wZ Rv`yNi I mvgwiK Rv`yNi|

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Celebrating

diversity Old architecture, fabulous food and a beautiful culture make Kuala Lumpur a must-visit place in Asia By: Hiz wan Ha mid

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D`hvcb Ki“b

ˆewPΨ

cyi‡bv ¯’vcZ¨‰kjx, Abe`¨ Lvevi I GKwU bRiKvov ms¯‹…wZ, G me wg‡j Kzqvjvjvgcyi n‡q‡Q Gwkqvi Aek¨ `k©bxq ¯’vb wj‡L‡Qb: wnRIqvb nvwg`

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gvj‡qwkqvi

Malaysia’s

capital city Kuala Lumpur is much more than ivRavbx Kzqvjvjvgcyi| ms‡¶‡c †KGj| GLb a stopover destination today. Though KL is Avi GwU ¶wY‡Ki hvÎvweiwZi ¯’vb bq, Av‡iv †ewk a glamorous town, its residents exemplify wKQy| AvKl©K kni wn‡m‡e †KGj Gi L¨vwZ Av‡M kindness and grace, and the city has a unique †_‡KB| Z_vwc AwZw_civqYZv I eÜzZvi D`vniY vibe to it. A place known for its multicultural iPbv K‡i‡Q GLvbKvi evwm›`viv| hvi Aven cvIqv community – Malay, Chinese, Indian, hv‡e †MvUv kniRy‡o| eûmvs¯‹…wZK m¤úÖ`v‡qi Tamil, Thai and many more people †gje܇bi Rb¨ mycwiwPZ GwU - Av‡Q call KL their home – KL is an gvjq, Pxbv, fviZxq, Zvwgj I _vB; Come to the amazing city with a mix Av‡iv A‡bK Rb‡MvôxB Av‡Q hviv Patronas Tower in of everything.

Kzqvjvjvgcyi‡KB Zv‡`i evwo e‡j the evening to watch

Merdeka Square

(Below) The Merdeka Square, (opposite page) the KLCC Mosque

30

Mar - Apr 2018

the sunset over the city skyline.

One of the best known attractions in KL is the Merdeka Square. An area packed with history and colonial buildings, Merdeka Square seems to be nothing more than a giant field with perfectly manicured green lawns and a centrepiece of the tallest flagpole in the world (95m) proudly displaying the Malaysian flag. Step inside the church of St Mary, one of the oldest Anglican churches in the country. The

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†gi‡`Kv †¯‹vqvi

†KGj Gi Ab¨Zg AvKl©‡Yi GKwU n‡jv †gi‡`Kv †¯‹vqvi| BwZnvm I Jcwb‡ewkK Avg‡ji GKMv`v fe‡b Vvmv GB RvqMv| †gi‡`Kv †¯‹vqvi‡K †`‡LB gv_vq cÖ_‡g Avm‡e GKwU AwZKvq gv‡Vi Qwe, †hLv‡b wbLuyZfv‡e QuvUv Av‡Q meyR jb I †hLv‡b Av‡Q we‡k¦i me‡P‡q eo cZvKv ¯—¤¢ (95 wgUvi)| Avi †mB ¯—‡¤¢ M‡e©i m‡½ Do‡Q gvj‡qwkqvi

off-beat activities

For some adrenaline rush

Overhead Genting Skyway This gondola lift is world’s fastest mono cable car system that takes you on a journey through lush greenery and cool highlands.

31

Underwater Aquaria KLCC

18th century Sultan Abdul Samad Building that originally served as secretariat for the British colonial administration is also located here. Today, it is home to the offices of the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia.

Petronas Tower

No one can leave KL without visiting the famous Petronas Tower. Come here in the evening to watch the sunset over the city skyline. Along with the Petronas Twin Towers, Menara KL Tower is easily Malaysia’s most recognisable landmark. This tower is 421 metres high but it trumps the Petronas Twin Towers with an even more spectacular view of the city. This gleaming tower’s spindle-like apex is visible from any part of Kuala Lumpur.

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†c‡Uªvbvm UvIqvi

RbwcÖq †c‡Uªvbvm UvIqvi bv †`‡L †KDB Kzqvjvjvgcyi †Q‡o †h‡Z PvB‡e bv| kn‡ii w`Mš—‡iLvq m~h©v¯— †`Lvi Rb¨ mevB GLv‡bB Qy‡U Av‡m| †c‡Uªvbvm UzBb UvIqv‡ii cvkvcvwk †g‡biv †KGj UvIqviwUI gvj‡qwkqvi me‡P‡q †Pbv feb¸‡jvi GKwU| GB UvIqviwU 421 wgUvi j¤^v, Z‡e kn‡ii g‡bvgy»Ki `„k¨ †`Lvi wePv‡i GwU Qvwo‡q †M‡Q †c‡Uªvbvm UzBb

It features over 5,000 aquatic and marine animals and exhibitions.

Book yourself in at Aquaria to get down and dirty with the sharks.

Grounded Klang Gates Quartz Ridge Enjoy a hike along these quartz dyke that are rumoured to be the largest crystal quartz outcrop in the world.

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(Above) Guan Di Temple, also known as Kuan Ti Temple, (opposite page) Ramayana cave at the Batu Caves temple complex

No one can leave KL without visiting the famous Petronas Tower

Adventure Park

About 15 km southwest of KL is Sunway Lagoon Theme Park. It has a variety of watery rides on offer and plenty of dry-land activities. Water slides that whirl and twirl, a manmade ‘river’ ride, a surf beach, a wave pool, a 360° revolving pirate ship… the list of fun attractions here is extensive. Built on the site of a former tin mine and quarry, when it first opened the highlights of this multi-zone theme park were its water slides and the world’s largest manmade surf beach.

These days, it has expanded and encompasses a total of five different zones – the water park, Scream Park, Amusement Park, Extreme Park and Wildlife Park.

Mar - Apr 2018

UvIqvi‡K| UvIqviwUi eZz©jvKvi P‚ovwU †`Lv hv‡e Kzqvjvjvgcyi kn‡ii †h‡Kv‡bv cÖvš— †_‡KB|

A¨vW‡fÂvi cvK©

Kzqvjvjvgcy‡ii 15 wK‡jvwgUvi `w¶Ycwð‡g Av‡Q mvbI‡q †j¸b w_g cvK©| cvwbi bvbv ai‡bi ivBW cvIqv hv‡e GLv‡b, m‡½ ïK‡bv RvqMvq †Ljvayjvi DcKi‡YiI Afve †bB| Av‡Q IqvUvi m­vBW, IUv Nyi‡Z Nyi‡Z †gvPoI Lvq| Av‡Q GKUv K…wÎg wifvi ivBW, GKwU mvd© Kivi ˆmKZ, GKwU I‡qf cyj, GKwU 360 wWwMÖ wifjwfs cvB‡iU RvnvR... gRvi gRvi AvB‡U‡gi ZvwjKvUv A‡bK j¤^v| Av‡MKvi GKwU wUb I AvK‡ii Lwb‡Z evbv‡bv n‡q‡Q GB cvK©| cÖ_g hLb GB gvwë‡Rvb w_g cvK©wU Pvjy Kiv nq ZLb ïay IqvUvi m­vBW I we‡k¦i me‡P‡q eo K…wÎg mvd© ˆmKZwUB wQj| GLb GwU cuvPwU Avjv`v Avjv`v †Rv‡b fvM Kiv- IqvUvi cvK©, w¯Œg cvK©, GwgDR‡g›U cvK©, G·wUªg cvK© I IqvBìjvBd cvK©|

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Batu Caves

Fast Facts

cvIqv hv‡e fvi‡Zi evB‡i _vKv wn›`y‡`i me‡P‡q

Located approximately 11 kilometres to eo gw›`i¸‡jvi GKwU| aviYv Kiv nq ¸nv¸‡jv 40 the north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves †KvwU eQ‡ii cyi‡bv| IB mgq G¸‡jv gvj‡qwkqvi is a limestone hill comprising three ¯’vbxq †Zgyqvb Rb‡Mvôxi evwm›`viv e¨envi Ki‡Zv| major caves and a number of smaller evUz cvnv‡oi cv`‡`‡k Av‡iv `y‡Uv ¸nv gw›`i Av‡Qones. This labyrinth of limestone caves AvU© M¨vjvwi †KBf I wgDwRqvg †KBf| G `y‡Uv‡Z is home to one of the biggest Hindu cvIqv hv‡e AMwYZ wn›`y g~wZ© I wPÎKg©| shrines outside India. The caves are reportedly 400 million years old and were once used by the native Temuan `i KlvKwl K‡ib hviv, ewY©j PvqbvUvDbUv‡K Zv‡`i people of Malaysia. At the foot of Rb¨ ¯^M© ejv P‡j| wRwbmc‡Îi `vg GLv‡b Batu Hill are two other cave A‡bK Kg Avi ˆewP‡Î¨I ficyi| iv‡Zi temples – the Art Gallery Cave †ejvq †cUvwjs w÷ª‡U _vKv Gi g~j KL’s biggest and Museum Cave – which evRviwU cwiYZ nq cÖvYeš— I Sjg‡j collection of roadside houses numerous Hindu GK iv‡Zi evRv‡i| kZ kZ ÷j restaurants sprawls along Jalan Alor, statues and paintings.

GLv‡b wfo K‡i Kg `v‡gB †eP‡Z e‡m just north of Jalan n‡iK cY¨| Bukit Bintang.

†fvRbwejvmx‡`i ¯^M©

The name Kuala Lumpur is a Malay term meaning “muddy confluence”. The city is situated at the confluence of Gombak River (earlier Lumpur River) and Klang River.

34

One of the Petronas Twin Towers was built by the Japanese Hazama Corporation; the other twin tower was built by the Korean Samsung C&T Corporation.

Mar - Apr 2018

Foodies' Paradise

The colourful Chinatown is a bargain hunter’s paradise. The prices are low and the selection is outstanding.

At night, its main market area, Petaling Street, transforms into a lively and vibrant night market, filled with hundreds of stalls offering all kinds of goods at affordable prices.

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KL’s biggest collection of roadside restaurants sprawls along Jalan Alor, just north of Jalan Bukit Bintang. Every evening (from 5pm till late) the street transforms into an open-air restaurant, with hundreds of restaurants serving fresh seafood. Both sides of the street are flanked by rows of hawker stalls, with plastic tables and chairs spilling out onto the road. The city’s street food scene is full of unique flavours, such as the roasted duck or frog leg porridge.

In KL, it’s not about where you eat, rather it’s more about what you eat. The Central Market is another place to be. The stalls here serve every kind of food for the traveller. KL is also famous for its bustling nightlife – try to find a spot that overlooks the Petronas Tower. It just makes the night prettier!

cø­vw÷‡Ki †Uwej †Pqvi¸‡jv| kniwUi w÷ªU dzW gv‡bB Abb¨ me ¯^v‡` ficyi, hvi g‡a¨ Av‡Q †iv‡÷W WvK I d«M †jM cwiR| Kzqvjvjvgcy‡i Avcwb †Kv_vq Lv‡”Qb †mUv eo K_v bq, Kx Lv‡”Qb †mUvB Avmj K_v| GiKg Av‡iKLvbv `kvmB RvqMv n‡jv †m›Uªvj gv‡K©U| ch©UK‡`i K_v gv_vq †i‡L GLvbKvi ÷j¸‡jv‡Z cÖvq me ai‡bi LveviB cvIqv hv‡e| e¨¯—Zvq Vvmv iv‡Zi Rxe‡bi R‡b¨I weL¨vZ Kzqvjvjvgcyi| Ggb GKUv RvqMv Luy‡R †ei Ki“b †hLvb †_‡K †c‡Uªvbvm UvIqvi †`Lv hvq, G‡Z ivZUv n‡q DV‡e Av‡iv Kgbxq|

(Above) The Petronas Tower, (opposite page) street food of Kuala Lumpur

Biman connects Dhaka-Kuala LumpurDhaka with nine weekly flights (biman-airlines.com)

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The Fishermen's

Island

Bordering the picturesque Sundarbans forest is a beautiful island, Dublar Char. Famous for fishing, the island also boasts of abundant fauna and natural beauty By: Sa m a i H a id er

†R‡j‡`i Øxc my›`ie‡bi wKbviv †Nu‡l Av‡Q GK Awb›`¨ my›`i Øxc `yejvi Pi| gvQ aivi Rb¨ weL¨vZ ØxcwU cÖvK…wZK †mŠ›`h© Ges cÖvY‰ewP‡Î¨ ficyi wj‡L‡Qb: mvgvB nvq`vi

Dublar

Char (Dubla’s Island) is a remote fishing island perched on the very edge of the Sundarbans, at the mouth of the Ganges delta where several mighty rivers empty into the Bay of Bengal.

The island, though difficult to reach, is a renowned fishing hub and famous for hosting the annual Rash Mela (Rash Festival), attracting thousands of Hindu pilgrims to its shores.

On a recent visit, I was spellbound by its beauty and amazed by the local fauna – a photographer’s dream, as the island is home to a variety of birds and giant sea turtles.

I was also left intrigued by the nomadic fishing community who return every year to Dublar Char, leaving behind the comforts of their homes to eke out an existence.

`yejvi

Pi GKwU `yMg© gvQ aivi Øxc| GwU my›`ie‡bi G‡Kev‡i wKbviv †Nu‡l Mv‡½q eØx‡ci gy‡L c‡o‡Q| †mLv‡b Li‡mªvZv b`x¸‡jv me e‡½vcmvM‡i wM‡q wg‡k‡Q| ØxcwU‡Z †cuŠQv‡bv †ek Kómva¨| Z‡e GwU gvQ wkKv‡ii R‡b¨ †Zv e‡UB, GgbwK cÖwZ eQi GLv‡b †h ivk †gjvi Av‡qvRb Kiv nq, Zvi Rb¨I weL¨vZ| IB †gjv †`L‡Z cÖwZ eQi nvRvi nvRvi wn›`y Zx_©hvÎxi mgvMg N‡U G Øx‡c| Avgvi mv¤cÖwZK åg‡Y ØxcwUi ¯’vbxq cÖvY‰ewPΨ Ges †mŠ›`‡h© gš¿gy» n‡q wQjvg| AwZKvq mvgyw`ªK K”Qc Ges bvbv cÖRvwZi cvwLi Dcw¯’wZi Kvi‡Y ØxcwU d‡UvMÖvdvi‡`i Rb¨ ¯^cœxj ¯’vb| N‡ii Avivg Av‡qk †Q‡o cÖwZ eQi nvRvi nvRvi †R‡j GLv‡b A¯’vqx wbevm M‡o| Zv‡`i GB wd‡i AvmvUvI Avgv‡KI †KŠZynjx K‡i Zy‡jwQj|

evsjv‡`‡ki †kl mxgvbvq

cïi b`xi e¨vcK we¯Í…wZ wg‡j‡Q w`M‡šÍi m‡½, b`xwUi †Nvjv Rj Avgv‡`i †QvU †bŠKvi †cQ‡b N~wY© ˆZwi

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(Clockwise from above) open air fish market, fishes being dried

travel tips

Mar - Apr 2018

The edge of Bangladesh

The vast expanse of the Poshur River stretched out across the horizon, its turbid waters roiling behind our small boat. The monotonous vista of river and sky was suddenly rent by a retinue of giant cargo ships, heralding our entry into the bay. Rickety old fishing boats crossed our path as we neared our destination.

A boat approached us, bobbing up and down in the swell as it pulled up alongside our vessel. Weathered by the elements, the dark, stoic face of a fisherman peered up, offering to sell us freshly caught pomfret. Within moments another boat eased next to our boat, offering to ferry us to the island for a small fee. There were no docks on the island and our boat was too large to navigate its way to land.

There are a handful of recognised tour operators who organise guided tours to Dublar Char. Most of the companies are based in Dhaka or Khulna.

KiwQj| b`x I AvKv‡ki kvš— `…‡k¨i GK‡N‡q bxieZv wQbœ K‡i nVvr †`Lv wgjj AwZKvq GK gvjevnx Rvnv‡Ri| IUv G‡m Rvbvb w`‡jv mgy`ª †_‡K Avgv‡`i `~iZ¡ Avi †ewk bq| MšÍ‡e¨i c‡_ Avi GKUy G‡Mv‡ZB RxY©kxY© K‡qKwU †R‡j-†bŠKvi †`Lv wgj‡jv| mgy‡`ªi †XD‡q `yj‡Z `yj‡Z GKwU †bŠKv Avgv‡`i †bŠKvi av‡i G‡jv| †iv‡` †cvov Kv‡jv wbwe©Kvi GKRb †R‡j Avgv‡`i Kv‡Q G‡m wewµ Ki‡Z PvBj Zvi GBgvÎ aiv ZvRv iƒcPvu`v gvQ| wKQy¶‡Yi g‡a¨ Av‡iKwU †bŠKv Avgv‡`i †bŠKvi cv‡k G‡m ¯^í fvovi wewbg‡q Øx‡c †cŠu‡Q †`Iqvi Avgš¿Y Rvbvj| Øx‡c †KvbI NvU †bB Avi Avgv‡`i †bŠKvI †ek eo hv Øx‡ci DcK~j ch©šÍ †h‡Z cvi‡e bv|

†R‡j‡`i m‡½ †`Lv

GKSuvK HwZn¨evnx †R‡j-‡bŠKv ˆmK‡Z †bv½i Kiv wQj| A`~‡iB `uvwo‡q wQj A‡bK gvbyl| we‡K‡ji m~‡h©i wecix‡Z hv GKwU Kv‡jv Qvqvi mvwi ˆZwi K‡iwQj| Zviv ¯’vbxq †R‡j| cÖwZw`bKvi gvQ aivi

Rise at sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding crowds. It’s also a magical time to click photographs due to soft diffused light of the rising sun.

Cash is king around the world. Make sure to stash some extra cash to save you in emergency. It will be very handy in case the ATMs run out of money.

An encounter with the fishermen

A flock of traditional fishing boats lay anchored on the beach. Beyond them, a sea of people stood on the shore, silhouetted against the afternoon sun.

They were local fishermen, having returned after a hard day’s work with their daily catch. They thronged the beaches in the late afternoon, passing time and watching the rare boatload of tourists disembark on the island.

Dublar Char is home to a variety of birds and giant sea turtles

g‡Zv KwVb KvRUv †m‡i gvÎB Zx‡i wd‡i‡Q| †R‡jiv we‡K‡j ˆmK‡Z G‡m R‡ov nq| wekÖvg †bq Ges Øx‡c Avmv ch©UK‡`i RvnvR †_‡K bvgvi weij `…k¨ †`‡L|

Dublar Char, only habitable in winter, offers `yejvi Pi, †Kej kxZKv‡j evm‡hvM¨ Øxc, ¯’vbxq a seasonal base for fishermen in the area. †R‡j‡`i Rb¨ GwU †gŠmygx NuvwU| cÖwZ eQi, A‡±vei Every year, between October and March, †_‡K gv‡P© nvRvi nvRvi †R‡j ØxcwU‡Z Av‡m, A¯’vqx thousands of fishermen descend on the evm¯’vb I gvQ cÖwµqvRvZ Kivi RvqMv †e‡Q †bq| Gi island, setting up temporary structures g‡a¨ †ewkifvM †R‡jB gvQ ai‡Z Mfxi mgy‡`ª wec`RbK that double as their sleeping quarters hvÎvq hvq| evwKiv Wv½vq ïUwK ˆZwi Kivi KvR as well as fish processing centres.

K‡i| ØxcwU evsjv‡`‡ki Ab¨Zg e…nr ïUwK While most endure the perils of ˆZwii †K›`ª| cÖwZ‡ekx †`‡k ißvwbi Rb¨ Dublar Char, only deep sea fishing, others tackle †ewkifvM ïUwK GLv‡bB ˆZwi nq| habitable in winter, offers a seasonal base for fishermen in the area.

(Below) Fishermen's boat in Dublar Char

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the backbreaking work that goes into gvQ cÖwµqvRvZKiY GjvKvq XyK‡ZB †Pv‡L co‡e Qwei shutki (dried fish), processing. The island g‡Zv iwOb GK `„k¨| gvB‡ji ci gvBj Mvp bxj i‡Oi is one of the largest dried fish processing cøvw÷‡Ki Ici nvRvi nvRvi iƒcvjx gvQ ïKv‡bv n‡”Q| centres in Bangladesh, producing much Avgvi Pvicv‡k mvwi mvwi A¯’vqx euv‡ki †eov wQj †hLv‡b of the shutki that is exported to AviI A‡bK gvQ ïKv‡bvi Rb¨ Sywj‡q ivLv n‡qwQj| neighbouring countries.

Entering the fish processing Bordered by enclave, the picturesque gvQ ïKv‡bvi †eovi †MvjKauvauvgq thatched-roofed views of colourful fishing iv¯Ív Ges evwjqvwo a‡i GKwU †QvU huts, the open-air boats quickly gave way to evRv‡i †cuŠQjvg| L‡o Av”Qvw`Z †QvU market was abuzz miles upon miles of bright †QvU Kzu‡oN‡i †Niv †Lvjv AvKv‡ki with activity. blue plastic sheeting, upon wb‡P evRviwU Kg©e¨¯—Zvq miMig| which thousands of silvery fish †`vKvb¸‡jv‡Z ïUwKfwZ© P‡Ui e¯Ív were laid out to dry in the sun. I gvwU‡Z mvwR‡q ivLv n‡q‡Q| me‡P‡q eo was surrounded by rows of makeshift ïUwKwU †`vKv‡bi Avovi m‡½ Sywj‡q ivLv n‡q‡Q| bamboo fencing, across which even wKQy Pv‡qi †`vKv‡bi mvg‡b Aí wKQy cøvw÷‡Ki more fish were strung out to dry. †Pqvi G‡jv‡g‡jvfv‡e ivLv Av‡Q| †hLv‡b ¯’vbxq

e¨¯Í evRvi

Bordered by thatched roofs, the markets here are heaped with sutki

Photograph: Sayeed Siddiqui

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Mar - Apr 2018

Bustling markets

Steering a course through a maze of fish and sand dunes I emerged onto a small market square. Bordered by

my¯^v`y Lvevi cwi‡ekb Kiv nq| Avwg Mig wmsMviv, gay †`Iqv wgwó Ges ¸‡oi Pv †L‡qwQ| Avgvi m‡½ wQ‡jb Awj wgqv - GKRb ¯’vbxq †R‡j, whwb cy‡iv †gŠmy‡gi Rb¨ cwievi‡K †Q‡o GLv‡b G‡m‡Qb| Pv LvIqvi cy‡ivUv mgq Ry‡o wZwb Avgv‡K Wjwd‡bi

Photograph: Sayeed Siddiqui (Above) Fishermen looking for a good catch, dried fish, (opposite page) People enjoying sunrise in Dublar Char

thatched-roofed huts, the open-air market was abuzz with activity. Hessian sacks heaped high with shutki were spread out on the sandy floor, while an assortment of the biggest and most prized dried fish hung from the rafters.

A small collection of plastic chairs and tables lay haphazardly in front of a handful tea stalls, serving up local delicacies. I tucked into generous helpings of piping hot shingara (fried dough with a savoury filling), honey drizzled sweets and gurer cha (tea with molasses).

m‡½ mvuZvi KvUv Ges †bŠKvi cv‡k wZwgi †f‡m IVvi Kvwnwb ïwb‡q‡Qb| gvQ aivUv Zvi Kv‡Q wb®‹i“Y Ges wec`RbK GKwU KvR| †ewkifvM mg‡qB ¯^í †eZ‡bB LvU‡Z nq Ges Awj wgqv Zvi †bŠKvq ch©UK‡`i Wjwdb I wZwg †`L‡Z wb‡q hvIqvi gva¨‡g wKQyUv evowZ Avq K‡ib| †`‡ki GB As‡ki `yejvi Pi †ewkifvM mg‡q Ae‡nwjZ I Abvwe®‹…Z GKwU gwYZyj¨ ¯’vb| kû‡i Rxe‡bi nqivwb †_‡K `~‡i AmvaviY GK Rxebavivi AšÍwb©nxZ M‡íi †`Lv †g‡j GLv‡b|

I was joined by Oli Mia, a local fisherman, who had left his family behind on the mainland for the season. Over tea he regaled me with tales of swimming with dolphins and watching gigantic whales surface near his boat.

Dublar Char presented fascinating insights into a unique way of life, an unexpected gem often overlooked in this part of the country.

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Deep

Blue

These lakes, seas, beaches and bays have vistas that range from brilliant navy blues to the lightest, clearest turquoises imaginable

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MAR - APR 2018

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bx‡ji

ivR¨

GB †jK, mvMi, ˆmKZ Avi Lvwo¸‡jv‡Z wgj‡e Ggb Qov‡bv `„k¨cU, †hLv‡b Avcbvi Kíbvi Mvp bxj †_‡K nvjKv AvKvwk I ¯^”Q wd‡ivRv i‡Oi †`Lv cv‡eb

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Palawan, The Philippines Explore the waters of El Nido, where tropical fish swarm around the coral reefs, go diving in the azure ocean off of Linapacan Island.

cvjvIqvb, wdwjcvBb

Gj wb‡Wvi cvwbi iv‡R¨ Ny‡i Avmyb, †hLv‡b MÖx®§gÊjxq gv‡Qiv cÖevj cÖvPxi †Nu‡l SuvK †eu‡a Ny‡i †eovq| WvBf w`b wjbvcvKvb Øxc †Nu‡l we¯—„Z AvKvkx bxj mvM‡i|

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Photograph: Debraj Chakraborty

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Umngot River, India-Bangladesh The Umngot River near the India-Bangladesh border flows from Meghalaya, India, to Sylhet in Bangladesh.

The water is crystal clear here.

MAR - APR 2018

DgMU b`x, fviZ-evsjv‡`k

fviZ-evsjv‡`k mxgvbv †Nu‡l e‡q Pjv DgMU b`xwU fvi‡Zi †gNvj‡q Drcbœ n‡q evsjv‡`‡ki wm‡j‡Ui Ici w`‡q †M‡Q| G b`xi cvwbI †ek ¯^”Q|

24 Hours

Con Son, Vietnam Located 110 miles off Vietnam’s southeastern coast, the unspoiled beaches of this island are lined with golden sand and gorgeous blue water.

Kb mb, wf‡qZbvg

wf‡qZbv‡gi `w¶Yc~e© DcK‚j †_‡K 110 gvBj `~‡i _vKv Øxc-ˆmKZ¸‡jv‡Z GLbI Lye GKUv gvby‡li cv c‡owb| GLv‡b Av‡Q mvi †eu‡a c‡o _vKv †mvbvjx evjy I RgKv‡jv bxj cvwb|

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Koh Lanta, Thailand Koh Lanta’s real attractions can be found at nearby diving spots where snorkellers and scuba divers see incredible views of coral reefs, colourful fish and underwater caves.

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MAR - APR 2018

†Kvn jvbZv, _vBj¨vÛ

†Kvn jvbZvi Avmj AvKl©‡Yi †`Lv wgj‡e GLvbKvi WvBwfs ¯úU¸‡jv‡Z| Wzeywi I ¯‹zev WvBfviiv GLvbKvi cÖevj cÖvPxi, iO †ei‡Oi gvQ I cvwbi wb‡P _vKv ¸nvi †PvL auvav‡bv me `„k¨ †`L‡Z cvq|

St. Martin’s Island, Bangladesh With beaches fringed with coconut palms and bountiful marine life, this island has the most amazing blue water in Bangladesh.

†m›U gvwU©b Øxc, evsjv‡`k

bvi‡Kj Mv‡Q QvIqv ˆmKZ I ARmª mvgyw`ªK cÖv‡Y ficyi GB ØxcwU‡Z i‡q‡Q evsjv‡`‡ki me‡P‡q my›`i bxjvf Rjivwk|

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Plumbing the depths of

Oman

Oman’s spectacular diving locations offer a rich and thrilling aquatic tapestry with a relatively untouched coastline By: Aftab Husain Kola

†g‡c Avmyb

Igv‡bi MfxiZv

Igv‡bi †PvL auvav‡bv WvBwfs †jv‡Kkb¸‡jv †g‡j a‡i‡Q GK RgKv‡jv I †ivgvÂKi R‡ji mgvnvi| Avi Av‡Q GK A¶Z ZU‡iLv wj‡L‡Qb: AvdZve ûmvBb †Kvjv

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The

Sea of Oman (previously called Gulf of Oman) boasts of stunning macro life and is slowly becoming a mecca for divers. Located on the peninsula of the Arabian Sea, Oman has opened its gate for visitors to experience its balmy water, mellow currents and stunning marine life. With a rapidly expanding dive industry, Oman is a perfect destination for a relaxed holiday and some marine exploration.

Great Dives

A perennial favourite among divers is the Muscat Hills Resort, formerly famous as Oman Dive Centre, located in the ruggedly beautiful Bandar Jissa area and Bandar Al

Mar - APR 2018

Zvi Igvb mvMi (Av‡M ejv n‡Zv Igvb DcmvMi); eo AvKv‡ii mvgyw`ªK cÖvYPv‡j¨i Rb¨ GKmgq bvgKiv G ¯’vbwU ax‡i ax‡i WvBfvi‡`i g°vq cwiYZ nq| Avie mvM‡ii DcØx‡ci Kv‡Q Aew¯’Z Igvb Zvi Øvi ch©UK‡`i mvg‡b Dš§y³ K‡i‡Q, †hb Zviv †`kwUi kvwš—`vqK cvwb, g„`yg›` Rj‡mªvZ I †PvL auvav‡bv mvgyw`ªK cÖv‡Yi iv‡R¨ Xzu gvi‡Z cv‡i| WvBf wk‡íi `ª“Z AMÖMwZi m‡½ Zvj wgwj‡q Igvb cwiYZ n‡q‡Q Aviv‡g QywU KvUv‡bv I mgy`ªZ‡j Awfhv‡bi GK hyrmB ¯’vb|

Oman’s underwater wealth has some of the most colourful corals and diverse fish species.

The Sultanate of Oman is slowly becoming a favourite diving destination among visitors. With almost 30 diving locations, Oman’s underwater wealth has some of the most colourful corals and diverse fish species. It offers a treasure trove of scenery, marine life and thrill, beckoning the more intrepid underwater explorer.

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bvg

†MÖU WvBf

ch©UK‡`i Kv‡Q ax‡i ax‡i RbwcÖq WvBwfs Mš—‡e¨ cwiYZ n‡q‡Q Igvb myjZvbvZ| 30wUiI †ewk WvBwfs †jv‡Kkb Av‡Q GLv‡b| Igv‡bi Rjm¤ú‡`i ZvwjKvq cvIqv hv‡e iwOb cÖevj I bvbv cÖRvwZi gvQ| Av‡Q bv›`wbK `„k¨cU, eb¨cÖvY I †ivgv‡Âi GK iZœfvÊvi| Z‡e Gi g‡a¨ mgy`Z ª ‡j wbivc` Awfhvb Pvjv‡bvi K_vB D‡V Av‡m †ewk| A‡bK w`b a‡iB WvBfvi‡`i Kv‡Q RbwcÖq gvmKU wnjm wi‡mvU©| Av‡M hv Igvb WvBf †m›Uvi bv‡g RbwcÖq wQj| i“¶¥ A_P bRiKvov e›`i wRmv I e›`i Avj Lvqivb GjvKvi gv‡S Gi Ae¯’vb| e›`i Avj Lvqiv‡bi WvBwfs c‡q‡›U †h‡Z n‡j Avcbv‡K gvmK‡Ui †gwibv e›`i Avj iI`v †_‡K w¯úW‡evU wb‡q †h‡Z n‡e|

(Below left) diver at Al Fahal Island, Oman anthias (pseudanthias marcia), (opposite page) dhow cruise trip in Sea of Oman

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Khyran. To reach the dive point at Bandar Al Khyran, one needs to take a speedboat from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha in Muscat, which drops you at the destination in less than half an hour. Owing to its shallow depth (up to 15 metres), this site is ideal for night dives and training. For anyone who loves a splash, snorkelling would be the best option.

The best time for taking a plunge is between 10am and 2pm.

Dive Islands

Another top diving site is the Damaniyat Islands, which lie about 18 kilometres off the Batinah coast. This island is composed of a string of nine rocky outcroppings and many smaller offshoot crags in an ocean sector that stretches roughly 200 sq kms.

The visibility underwater at the Damaniyat Islands tends to be better than the dive sites closer to the shore and the sheer number of fish that you can spot here is staggering. Anywhere you look you will find school of fish!

IUv Avcbv‡K Avav NÈviI Kg mg‡qi g‡a¨ Mš—‡e¨ †cuŠ‡Q †`‡e| Kg MfxiZvi Rb¨ (15 wgUvi ch©š)— iv‡Zi WvBwfs I cÖwk¶‡Yi Rb¨ GB mvBUwU Av`k©| Avi hviv gy‡L LvwbKUv R‡ji wQUv †c‡Z Pvb, Zv‡`i Rb¨ møi‡KwjsUvB Dchy³| Z‡e mvaviYZ RvqMvwU Zvi ¯‹ez v WvBwfs‡q AwfÁZv cvIqvi Rb¨B †ewk cwiwPZ| cvwb‡Z Suvc †`Iqvi Dchy³ mgqUv n‡jv mKvj 10Uv †_‡K `yciy 2Uvi ch©š|—

WvB‡fi hZ Øxc

Av‡iKwU DuP`z ‡ii WvBwfs mvBU n‡jv `vgvwbqvZ ØxccyÄ| evwZbvn DcK‚j †_‡K IUv 18 wK‡jvwgUvi `~‡i| GB ØxccyÄwU g~jZ mgy‡`ªi 200 eM© wK‡jvwgUvi Ry‡o Qwo‡q _vKv 9wU cv_y‡i f‚LÊ I †ekwKQy Ge‡ov‡Le‡ov Lvov cvnv‡oi mvwi| `vgvwbqvZ Øxc¸‡”Qi R‡ji Zjvi `„k¨¸‡jv DcK‚‡ji KvQvKvwQ GjvKvi †P‡q Av‡iv †ewk ¯^”Q| GLv‡b gv‡Qi †h wecyj cwigvY mgvnvi Avcwb †`L‡eb Zv ixwZg‡Zv †PvL Kcv‡j Zz‡j †`Iqvi g‡Zv| †hw`‡KB ZvKvb bv †Kb, †Kej gvQ Avi gvQ! dvnj AvBj¨vÛI Av‡iKwU RbwcÖq WvBf ¯úU| GLv‡bI wgj‡e A‡bK cÖRvwZi cÖevj Avi ¯^”Q cvwbi †`Lv| eo AvKv‡ii wKQy †gv‡i Bj I AvMÖvmx wKQy wUªMvi wdk Zv‡`i emZ †M‡o‡Q GB dvnj AvBj¨v‡Û| K¨vU AvBj¨vÛ, ivÕm `vD`, mvIqvw`; Gme RvqMv‡ZI wgj‡e WvBf mvBU,

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DIVING TIPs

Focus your gaze below you, breathe out slowly and imagine you are getting heavier as the air leaves your lungs.

When you slow down and relax, animals come out and you’ll see some amazing marine life.

It’ll also maximize your air supply.

Mar - APR 2018

Fahl Island is yet another interesting dive spot known for a great variety of corals and clear waters. Some massive moray eels and aggressive trigger fishes have made Fahl Islands their homes. Cat Island, Ra’s Daud, Sawadi, etc are the other dive sites, which divers flock to. At Ra’s Daud an excellent variety of coral and abundant marine life unfold before your eyes.

Other diving sites in Muscat area include Qantab Reef, Jissah Island Public Island, Seahorse bay, etc. Here expansive soft coral gardens stretch out like vast fields of undersea wildflowers that provide habitats to myriad of marine creatures.

What to Expect

The relative remoteness of pockets of the rocky coasts and sequestered fjords has helped to preserve the island’s natural beauty and wildlife. These areas offer dramatic scenery, greater access to nature and exciting opportunities for exploratory diving. A slew of dive companies based in Oman offer diving adventures. These

Massive moray eels and aggressive trigger fishes have made Fahl Islands their homes

†hLv‡b mviv eQiB WvBfviiv QyU jvMvq| ivÕm `vD‡` cvIqv hv‡e cÖev‡ji A‡bK¸‡jv PgrKvi cÖRvwZ| GLv‡b Avcbvi †Pv‡Li mvg‡b cÖKvwkZ n‡e GKivk mvgyw`ªK cÖvY‰ewPΨ| gvmKU A‡j Av‡iv wKQy WvBwfs mvB‡Ui g‡a¨ D‡jøL­ ‡hvM¨ n‡jv KvbZve wid, wRmvn AvBj¨vÛ cvewjK AvBj¨vÛ, wm-‡kvi †e BZ¨vw`| GLv‡b mgy`Z ª ‡ji wekvj GjvKvRy‡o _vKv ZzjZz‡j cÖev‡ji evMvbUv‡K †`‡L g‡b n‡e †hb GKivk ey‡bvdzj Qwo‡q Av‡Q| Gi Avbv‡P Kvbv‡P jywK‡q Av‡Q GKivk mvgyw`ªK cÖvYx|

Av‡iv hv cv‡eb

cv_y‡i DcK‚‡ji LuvR¸‡jv †_‡K LvwbKUv `~i‡Z¡ _vKvq I DuPz cvnv‡oi †fZi w`‡q e‡q Pjv Rjivwki Kvi‡Y GB Øxc¸‡jvi cÖvK…wZK †mŠ›`h© I eb¨cÖvYx¸‡jv †eu‡Pe‡Z© Av‡Q| GB AÂj¸‡jv‡Z cv‡eb bvUKxq me `„k¨cU, cÖK…wZi Av‡iv Kv‡Q †Nulvi my‡hvM I AbymÜvbg~jK

companies offer dolphin watching activities as well.

You can also find several wrecks at various places. One of the most popular one being Al Munnassir, a 3,000-tonne landing craft that was sunk in 30-metres of water in Bander Khyran by the Royal Navy of Oman.

There are a massive variety of hard and soft corals, reef fish and nudibranchs to see. In addition to this, you also hold a chance to see numerous whales, turtles, dolphins, sharks and rays. So, head to Oman waters where a world bursting with life and colour is waiting for you!

WvBwfs‡qi PgrKvi me my‡hvM| WvBwfs‡qi †ivgvÂKi ¯^v‡`i e‡›`ve¯— Ki‡Z Igv‡b M‡o D‡V‡Q GKMv`v WvBf †Kv¤úvwb| G †Kv¤úvwb¸‡jv Avcbv‡K Wjwdb †`Lv I gvQ aivi Av‡qvRbI K‡i †`‡e| GLv‡b KwVb I big cÖev‡ji GKMv`v cÖRvwZi mÜvb cv‡eb| Av‡Q Luvwoi gvQ I bywWeªvsK (†gvjv¯‹v †Mv‡Îi) †`Lvi my‡hvM| Avi Gi m‡½ †`Lv †c‡Z cv‡ib wZwg, K”Qc, Wjwdb, nvOi I †i gv‡Qi| †Zv, iIbv w`b Igv‡bi c‡_, †hLv‡b Avcbvi Rb¨ A‡c¶v Ki‡Q cÖvY‰ewPΨ I iO Qov‡bv GK RMr!

(Below) Coastline of Muttrah district of Muscat, (opposite page) diving in Musandam, Oman

Biman connects Dhaka-MuscatDhaka with six weekly flights (biman-airlines.com)

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Mar - APR 2018

24 Hours

Celebrate

Boishakh

the Dhaka way

The people of Bangladesh welcome the Bengali New Year with much aplomb and colourful festivals By: M un ira Fi d a i

D`hvcb Kiæb

ˆekvL XvKvi g‡Zv

evsjv‡`‡ki gvby‡liv beel©‡K ¯^vMZ Rvbvq cÖej AvZ¥wek¦vm I ewY©j me Drm‡ei ga¨ w`‡q wj‡L‡Qb: gywbiv wd`vB

ÒG‡mv

“Esho

hey boishakh, esho, †n ˆekvL, G‡mv G‡mv...Ó esho…” As the much `viæY fvjevmvq wm³ I loved and widely celebrated Bengali New †`kRy‡o D`hvwcZ evsjv beel© hZB Nwb‡q Avm‡Q, Year looms closer, every Bengali can be cÖwZwU evOvwj‡KB †`Lv hv‡e GKUv ZvwjKvq wUK seen ticking off a checklist of the places w`‡”Q| MZeQi GB w`bwU‡Z Zviv †Kv_vq †Kv_vq they would like to visit this year, and the wM‡qwQj Ges G eQi †Kv_vq †Kv_vq hvIqv hvq Avi tried and tested places that Boishakh †Kv_vq †Kv_vq bv †M‡j ˆekvLUv wVK ˆekvL is simply not Boishakh without. n‡q DV‡e bv †mB ZvwjKv| GLb 14 Here’s us, helping you out, if you GwcÖj Zvwi‡L hw` Avcwb XvKvq †_‡K Charukola, is one happen to be in Dhaka on April _v‡Kb Z‡e Avcbv‡K mvnvh¨ Ki‡Z of the most popular 14 this year.

Avgiv †Zv AvwQ|

Charukola

places for Boishakh enthusiasts.

Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, also known as Charukola, is one of the most popular places for Boishakh enthusiasts. What started in 1989 as a rally to promote folk art and culture has now become a full-fledged tradition of the town. A huge procession filled with people clad in wonderful

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ˆekvL D`hvcbKvix‡`i Rb¨ Av`k© ¯’vb¸‡jvi g‡a¨ Ab¨Zg n‡jv XvKv wek¦we`¨vj‡qi PviæKjv Abyl`, hv ïay PviæKjv bv‡gB cwiwPZ| †jvKwkí I ms¯‹…wZi cÖPviYvq 1989 mv‡j hv GKwU †kvfvhvÎv w`‡q ïiæ n‡qwQj, Zv GLb kn‡ii GKwU c~Y©v½ HwZn¨‡Z cwiYZ n‡q‡Q| G w`b XvKv wek¦we`¨vjq GjvKv †_‡K GKwU wekvj †jvK mgvMg ewY©j †cvkvK Mv‡q

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(Above) Student of Dhaka University making mascots, (below) popular Bengali dish, ilish-fish; (opposite page left) Dhaka University, Pohela Boishakh's rally

coloured attire start their parade from the Dhaka University, carrying banners, floats and other items such as life-sized masks. The sight is more colourful than almost anything else you will see on this subcontinent, and the enthusiasm is something that must be experienced to be believed.

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†kvfvhvÎv wb‡q K¬všÍ n‡q co‡j GK duv‡K †m‡i wbb mKv‡ji bv¯Ív| Avi AK…wÎg ˆekvwL cÖvZtiv‡ki Rb¨ igbv eUg~j GjvKvwU Avcbv‡K KLbB Ramna Batamul wbivk Ki‡e bv| evOvwj gv‡Qi K`i K‡i| Ramna Batamul is one place that never Once you are tired out from Avi ˆekv‡L †mB Av‡eMLvbv G‡Kev‡i fails to provide you the Shobha Jatra, it is now †fZi †_‡K DZ‡j I‡V| igbvq †XvKvi the most authentic time for breakfast. Ramna ci cvšÍv fvZ, Bwjk gvQ, †e¸b fvRv I Boishakh breakfast Batamul is one place that never ïK‡bv gwi‡Pi fZ©vi jvB‡b wM‡q `uvwo‡q fails to provide you the most hvb| G¸‡jvi m‡½ †hvM Ki‡Z cv‡ib VvÊv authentic Boishakh breakfast, ever!

Wv‡ei cvwb| †fZ‡i †XvKvi ci †Kv‡bv GKwU Bengalis adore fish. And Boishakh reflects Mv‡Qi Zjvq GKwU kxZj ¯’vb †e‡Q wbb| m‡½ Dc‡fvM this sentiment to the core. Once inside Ki‡Z _vKzb jvBf evsjv m½xZ| Ramna, get in line for some panta bhaat (rice soaked overnight in water), ilish mach (fried hilsha), begun bhaja (fried eggplant) and shukna moricher bhorta (red pepper mash). Wash it down with some cool coconut water. While you are there, do find yourself a cool spot under a tree and enjoy live Bengali musical performances.

Mar - APR 2018

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Dhaka University

Take a leisurely walk or ride a rickshaw to the Dhaka University area

Done with breakfast? It is now time for some fun. Take a leisurely walk or ride a rickshaw to the Dhaka University area.

While Boishakh is celebrated with much aplomb all across the city, the real zeal is here. Face painting, street food and souvenir shops – you name it and they have it. Buy tiaras made with real flowers from street peddlers, get your face painted with beautiful red and white kolki designs, look for a bangle seller for some glass bangles and get yourself a plate of some tangy and spicy fuchka . That is not all you can do, though. Hop onto a creaky ferris wheel with a stick of cotton candy and touch the clouds while stuffing yourself with sugar! Boishakh cannot get sweeter than this!

dz‡ji evbv‡bv Uvqiv wKb‡Z cv‡ib dzUcvZ †_‡K| jvj I mv`vi KjwK bKkvq ivOv‡Z cv‡ib †Pnviv| PzwoIqvjv Lyu‡R †ei K‡i wK‡b wb‡Z cv‡ib wKQz Kv‡Pi Pzwo| †Kv_vI e‡m co‡Z cv‡ib UK Svj dzPKvi †cøU nv‡Z| Avi ïay G¸‡jvB bq, nvIqvB wgVvB wb‡q P‡o em‡Z cv‡ib gvby‡li nv‡Z Pvjv‡bv wewPÎ bvMi‡`vjvq| wPwbi Av¯^v‡` Quy‡q Avmyb †g‡Ni ivR¨! ˆekvLUv Gi †P‡q wgwó n‡Z cv‡i bv!

Puran Dhaka

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While lunch is usually a quiet affair at home with friends and close family, Old Dhaka is a must try for those with an adventurous streak. Ride a boat from Sadarghat and watch the sunset on the water. It’s no gondola ride but a charming twin in a smaller, very exciting city. Since you are in the land of the Nawabs, do it justice and have dinner at the most popular eatery in all of Dhaka city – the mighty Hotel Al-Razzak.

Order what you will from their Bengali food menu – they never disappoint!

`ycy‡ii LvIqvUv GLv‡b mPivPi eÜz ev wbKUvZ¥x‡qi m‡½ evmv‡ZB n‡q _v‡K| Z‡e hviv GKUz †ewk †ivgvÂwcÖq Zv‡`i Rb¨ cyivb XvKvUv‡K GKUz †P‡L †`Lv PvB-B| m`iNv‡U wM‡q cvwbi Ici m~h©v¯Í †`Lyb| GUv‡K wVK M‡Ûvjv ivBW ejv hv‡e bv, Z‡e PgrKvi G kn‡i IUvi †QvU †evbI ej‡Z cv‡ib| Avi Avcwb †h‡nZz beve‡`i A‡j Av‡Qb, †m‡nZz XvKv kn‡ii me‡P‡q RbwcÖq ¯’vb Avj-iv¾vK †nv‡U‡j iv‡Zi LveviwU bv †L‡j AwePviB Kiv n‡e| evOvwj †gby †_‡K hv Lywk AW©vi Kiæb- Zviv Avcbv‡K KLbB wbivk Ki‡e bv!

Fast facts

Celebrating Pohela Boisakh, miniature aalponas or rangolies are drawn using bright colours like red, green, blue and yellow as well as powdered rice in the front yard and staircases of houses and offices.

Bengalis across the globe celebrate the end of the old year 'Chaitra Sankranti' with exciting fairs.

For Bengali traders, Pohela Boishakh is the perfect time for Haal Khata — a day to open the ledger.

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Paharpur An Obscure Jewel

Home to one of the most ancient Buddhist monasteries, Paharpur serves as a centre for the followers of three major historical religions of the world - Buddhists, Jains and Hindus By: Mu nira A h m ed Fid a i

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GK AùzU iZœ

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MAR - APR 2018

Bangladesh

is a small bejeweled crown, with big and small gems set all across. While some jewels may get eclipsed by bigger, flashier ones, the smaller ones lend their own sparkle to this land of wonders. One such obscured jewel of Bangladesh is the Shomapura Mahavira or the Great Monastery in Paharpur.

Situated in the Badalgachhi Upazila, Naogaon District, the Great Monastery is a famous 7th century Buddhist monastery and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It isn’t just one of the most important archeological sites in the country, but also one of the best-known discoveries of the subcontinent.

Impressive structure

First built by Dharmapala Vikramshila (770810 AD), the king of Varendri-Magadha, the picturesque monastery looks like a

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painting done in green and brown. Lush green landscapes of Paharpur envelop this historical treasure trove, with the lofty structure sitting on approximately 27 acres of land. The angular formation houses a total of 177 rooms inside it, including the north and side wings and the trademark Buddhist stupa at the centre.

177wU Kÿ Av‡Q| Dˇii I cvkvcvwk mvwimn Gi †K‡›`ª gvBjdj‡Ki g‡Zv `uvwo‡q Av‡Q GKwU †eŠ× ¯Í‚c|

Qv`Iqvjv GB mycvi÷ªvKPviwUi Kvi‡YB wenviwUi D”PZv `uvwo‡q‡Q 70 dz‡U| Dc‡ii w`KUv n‡jv GKwU AwZKvq Pvi‡KvYv e­K| IUv gv‡S _vKv B‡Ui AskwU ˆZwi K‡i‡Q| gvSLv‡b _vKv PZ¡iwU n‡jv Pvicv‡k †Nvivi GKwU PIov ¯’vb, hvi cvk †Nu‡l †M‡Q PviwU g~j K¶ Z_v gÊc| GwU GKwU mvaviY µzkvKvi AvK…wZ, hv cÖ‡ekgy‡L avivevwnKfv‡e cÖwZ¯’vcb K‡i we¯—Z „ Kiv The terraced n‡q‡Q| g~ j Z g~ j gw›`‡ii mKj ¯—‡iB GB superstructure AvKviwU‡K Aby K iY Kiv n‡q‡Q| gives the vihara an

The terraced superstructure gives the vihara an impressive height of 70 feet. The upper level is a massive rectangular central block, impressive height of which forms the central brick 70 feet. shaft. The intermediate terrace GB g‡Vi ¯’vcZ¨Kjvi m‡½ Ab¨ †Kv‡bv wKQyi is a wide circumambulatory path, wgj cvIqv hv‡e bv| wenv‡ii GB bKkvwU wb‡RB which passes four main chapels or wb‡Ri cwiPq †NvlYv Ki‡Z h‡_ó| GwU wbwðZ mandapas architectural plan, it is in fact a K‡i †h GB ¯’vc‡Z¨i wbg©vY‰kjx `w¶Yc~e© Gwkqvi fe‡bi simple cruciform that has been elaborated with bKkv Øviv AbycvÖ wYZ; GgbwK Gi MVb‰kjxi cÖfve wM‡q a series of projections at the re-entrants, a form †V‡K‡Q my`i~ K¨v‡¤^vwWqv ch©š!— that is copied at all levels on the main shrine.

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The architecture of the monastery is unlike any other establishment. The telltale structure of the vihara confirms that the architecture of the establishment was inspired by Southeast

MAR - APR 2018

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(Clockwise from below left) Archeologists working on excavations, Paharpur Museum, Somapura Mahavihara,

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The Great Monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985

Asian building styles and itself, influenced architectural styles of as far away as Cambodia!

What can be deduced from the remains is that the monastery, at its prime time, was an intellectual hub for the Buddhist, Jain and Hindu disciplines well until the 12th century.

Tibetan sources claim that during the Pala period, in ancient Magadha and Bengal, five main monasteries, under state supervision, formed an interlinked group of institutions and learning networks, of which Shompur was one.

Objects salvaged from the vihara are exhibited in a museum built near the site. The Varendra Research Museum in Rajshahi also houses some of the collection. Among the exhibited items are clay objects, decorative bricks, coins, pottery and inscriptions, plaques

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made of terracotta and imagery of various deities. The black stone carvings and terracotta tiles are favourites. The best way for foreign tourists to get the real feel of the site's rich history would be to spend some time at the museum. Gardens at the entrance of the site are covered in delightful topiary of various shapes.

Hygienic toilet facilities are also available in the area. Souvenir shops around the site offering dainty keepsakes and light snacks.

Getting there

Located at a distance of about 282 km from the capital city of Dhaka, it takes approximately seven hours to reach the Great Monastery by road. The nearest airport to it is in Rajshahi. It's just 100 kms.

Lodging and Sightseeing

Notable lodging facilities in the area include Hotel Agomoni, Hotel Obokas, Afsar Rest House and the most popular, Archeological Rest House, Paharpur. Tourists may have to pre-book in order to stay at the Archeological Rest House, but it is worth it if one wishes to enjoy the sights during twilight and early hours of the morning!

MAR - APR 2018

Gardens at the entrance of the site are covered in delightful topiary in various shapes

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GB GjvKvq _vKvi Rb¨ D‡jøL‡hvM¨ myweavi g‡a¨ Av‡Q †nv‡Uj AvMgbx, †nv‡Uj AeKvk, Avdmvi †i÷ nvDm| Gi g‡a¨ me‡P‡q RbwcÖqwU n‡jv cÖZœZvwË¡K †i÷ nvDm, cvnvocyi| cÖZœZvwË¡K †i÷ nvDmwU‡Z _vKvi Rb¨ ch©UK‡`i Av‡M †_‡K eyK K‡i ivL‡Z n‡e| Z‡e Gi cqmv Dmyj n‡e, hw` ¯’vbxq †jvKRb I ch©UK‡`i wf‡o AÂjwUi wbwiwewj cwi‡ekUv bó nIqvi Av‡MB hw` †KD †Mva~wj j‡Mœ ev †fv‡ii w`‡K GjvKvwU Ny‡i †`L‡Z Pvq| Biman connects Dhaka-RajshahiDhaka with four weekly flights (biman-airlines.com)

(Above) Fish and Apsara bas-reliefs at the base of Buddhist Vihara

Tarot cards...

gvP©-GwcÖj 2018Õi Rb¨ U¨viU fwel¨ØvYx Tarot predictions for March-April 2018 by Manisha Koushik

64

Aries (‡glivwk)

Taurus (e…livwk)

Gemini (wg_ybivwk)

Business partners would be enthusiastic about new plans & ventures. Romantic vibrations from someone unknown would lift your spirits taking imaginations to scaling heights.

A romantic encounter is likely to add spice to life. Financially, you need to plan your expenses in advance. Mental clarity gives a decisive edge over all competitors at professional front.

Success in completing difficult assignments brings a lot of laurels at work. A pleasure trip with your beloved gives the much-needed tonic to health.

Lucky number: 7, Lucky colour: Peach

Lucky number: 11, Lucky colour: Grey

Lucky number: 5, Lucky colour: Coffee

bZzb cwiKíbv I D‡`¨vM wb‡q e¨emvwqK cvU©bviiv †ek Avkvev`x _vK‡eb| A‡Pbv Kv‡iv KvQ †_‡K †ivgvw›UK mvov †c‡q Avcbvi cÖvYPvÂj¨ jvwd‡q jvwd‡q evo‡e|

RxebUv‡K PUK`vi K‡i Zzj‡Z cv‡i †ivgvw›UK †Kv‡bv NUbv| Li‡Pi cwiKíbvUv AvMvg †m‡i †djyb| †ckv`vwi‡Z¡i †¶‡Î gvbwmK ¯^”QZvi Kvi‡Y cÖwZ‡hvMx‡`i nvZ †_‡K Avj‡Mv‡Q GwM‡q _vK‡eb Avcwb|

KwVb GmvBb‡g›U †kl Kivi †h mdjZv, Zv Avcbvi Kv‡R †ek m¤§vb e‡q Avb‡e| wb‡Ri cQ‡›`i gvby‡li m‡½ GK Avb›`Nb ågY Avcbvi ¯^v‡¯’¨i Rb¨ eûj cÖZxw¶Z Uwb‡Ki KvR Ki‡e|

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 7, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: wcP

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 11, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: a~mi

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 5, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: Kwd

Cancer (KK©Uivwk)

Leo (wmsnivwk)

Virgo (Kb¨vivwk)

Creative hobbies are likely to keep you relaxed. Selling a plot might be profitable as property rates tend to rise sooner.

Control your expenses and avoid being too lavish in your spending. If, you’re planning a vacation, be sure to consider your work does not effect.

Romantic imagination would keep you in a jovial & cheerful mood.

Professionally, stars predict a busy period ahead.

Lucky number: 9, Lucky colour: Orange

Lucky number: 17, Lucky colour: Navy Blue

Lucky number: 2, Lucky colour: Red

m„Rbkxj kL¸‡jvB Avcbv‡K wbi“‡ØM ivL‡e| c­U wewµ KivUv jvfRbK n‡e, †h‡nZz mvg‡bi w`‡K f~m¤úwËi `vg evo‡Z hv‡”Q|

LiP mvg‡j Pjyb| e¨q Ki‡Z wM‡q Ace¨q Ki‡Z hv‡eb bv| hw` QywU KvUv‡bvi cwiKíbv Ki‡Z ïi“ K‡ib, Z‡e wbwðZ Ki“b †h G‡Z Avcbvi Kv‡Ri ¶wZ n‡e bv|

†ivgvw›UK Kíbv Avcbv‡K Drdzj­I Avb‡›` fvwm‡q ivL‡e| Avi b¶ÎivwR ej‡Q, †ckv`vwi‡Z¡i w`‡K Avm‡Q e¨¯— Zvi mgq|

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 9, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: Kgjv

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 17, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: †bwf e­y

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 2, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: jvj

Mar - APR 2018

Manisha Koushik is an astrologer, Tarot Card reader, Numerologist, Vastu & Feng Shui consultant.

libra (Zyjvivwk)

scorpio (e…wðKivwk)

sagittarius (abyivwk)

Some of you may find their dream jobs but materialization may take some time.

A family holiday does magic for those mentally tensed and physically fatigued.

Decent manners and intellectual talk would catch others attention.

Ups and downs are foreseen on the financial front.

Health may require some attention.

You will soon taste the satisfaction of climbing the ladder of success on the professional front.

Lucky number: 5, Lucky colour: Sky Blue

Lucky number: 1, Lucky colour: Dark Grey

Lucky number: 14, Lucky colour: Lemon

Avcbv‡`i †KD †KD nq‡Zv Zvi ¯^‡cœi PvKwiUv †c‡qB hv‡eb, Z‡e Zv‡Z avZ¯— n‡Z mgq jvM‡e| hviv gvbwmK Pvc I kvixwiK `ye©jZvi †fZi w`‡q hv‡”Qb Zv‡`i Rb¨ GKwU cvwievwiK QywU KvR Ki‡e Rv`yi g‡Zv|

f‡`ªvwPZ AvPiY I eyw×e„wËK K_vevZ©v w`‡q A‡b¨i gb‡hvM Kvo‡Z m¶g n‡eb| Avw_©K w`‡K DÌvb I cZ‡bi m¤¢vebv `„k¨gvb|

¯^v‡¯’¨i cÖwZ wKQyUv bRi w`‡Z n‡e| †ckv`vwi‡Z¡i w`‡K mvd‡j¨i gB evIqvi Av¯^v` †c‡Z hv‡”Qb AwP‡iB|

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 5, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: AvKvkx bxj

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 1, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: Mvp a~mi

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 14, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: †jgb

Capricorn (gKiivwk)

Aquarius (Ky¤i ¢ vwk)

Pisces (gxbivwk)

Buying property can lead to financial gains.

You are likely to find comfort in the arms of your lover. Regular exercise will prove beneficial on the health front.

It is supposedly a very good period for those who are willing to apply for overseas job.

This is a very favourable period on the health and fitness fronts.

Your efforts to put yourself in a strong position at workplace are likely to materialise. If you get a chance to see a new place, don’t miss the opportunity.

Lucky number: 12, Lucky colour: Royal Blue

Lucky number: 4, Lucky colour: Dark Yellow

Lucky number: 18, Lucky colour: Parrot Green

m¤úwË µ‡qi gva¨‡g Avw_©Kfv‡e jvfevb n‡Z cv‡ib| wb‡Ri †cÖwgK/†cÖwgKvi evû‡Z Luy‡R cv‡eb ¯^w¯—| wbqwgZ e¨vqvg Kivi mydj cv‡eb ¯^v‡¯’¨|

hviv †`‡ki evB‡i PvKwi LuyRwQ‡jb Zv‡`i Rb¨ GB mgqUv †ek fvj cÖZxqgvb n‡”Q| ¯^v¯’¨ I wdU‡b‡mi w`‡KI GB mgqUv AbyK‚‡j _vK‡e|

Kg©‡¶‡Î wb‡R‡K GKwU k³ Ae¯’v‡b Zz‡j aivi †h cÖ‡Póv Pvwj‡q AvmwQ‡jb †mUv ev¯—e n‡Z P‡j‡Q| bZzb †Kv‡bv RvqMv †`Lvi my‡hvM †c‡j, †mUv wKQy‡ZB nvZQvov Ki‡eb bv|

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 12, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: iq¨vj e­y

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 4, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: Mvp njy`

†mŠfv‡M¨i msL¨v: 18, †mŠfv‡M¨i iO: wUuqv meyR

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Tokyo diaries

One of the world’s most modern cities in terms of its infrastructure and design, Tokyo is also one of the most expensive cities to live in By: Bryan Harley

66

Mar - Apr 2018

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67

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From

(Below) Life size traditional Tokyo dolls on display, (opposite page) Hakone Open Air Museum

68

Mar - Apr 2018

c¨v‡MvWv,

shrines and temples to edgy fashion of local people and skyscraper restaurants – not to forget a sushi fix, a day in Tokyo can happily showcase the very best of the city, in terms of its traditional heritage as well as the modernity this capital city has to offer.

gw›`i †_‡K ïiæ K‡i wUbGRvi‡`i nvjd¨vkb, †mB m‡½ AvKvkPyw¤^ me †i¯Íivu ; mywk wd‡·i K_vI fz‡j †M‡j Pj‡e bv| gvÎ GKw`‡bi åg‡YI †UvwKI Zvi eywbqvw` HwZ‡n¨i m‡½ AvaywbKZvi Ggb GK PgrKvi wg‡kj Avcbvi mvg‡b †g‡j ai‡e hv AZyjbxq|

Morning

Avcbvi †UvwKI ågYwU ïiæ Kiæb AvmvKymv ev

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Start your Tokyo tour with a visit to Asakusa or †mb‡mvwR gw›`i w`‡q| 645 mv‡j wbwg©Z GB gw›`iwU Sensoji Temple. Built in 645, this is Tokyo’s oldest †`kwUi me‡P‡q cyi‡bv gw›`i Ges me‡P‡q RbwcÖqI| temple as well as the most popular one. Many ¯’vbxq‡`i gy‡L cÖPwjZ Av‡Q †h GLvbKvi gw›`‡ii people believe that the Asakusa Kannon deity †`eZv AvmvKymv Kvb‡bi c…w_exi Afvebxq A‡bK enshrined here has the ability to bestow benefits Kj¨vY Kivi ¶gZv Av‡Q| Rvcvbmn we‡k¦i bvbv on earth. Thronged with over 30 million visitors cÖvšÍ †_‡K wZb †KvwU ch©UK gw›`iwU †`L‡Z Av‡m| from Japan and abroad, this temple was the G‡`v ms¯‹…wZi (eZ©gvb AvaywbK †UvwKIi †MvovcËb epicentre for development of Edo culture, and its †hLvb †_‡K) cxV¯’vb ejv n‡q _v‡K GB gw›`iwU‡K| traces still remain today. Many seasonal events LyuR‡jB cyi‡bv GB ms¯‹…wZi wPý GLbI cvIqv hvq| are held here, which includes the Hozuki (Chinese mKv‡j A‡bK ai‡bi Abyôv‡bi Av‡qvRbI nq GLv‡b, lantern plant) Market and Hagoita (wooden hvi g‡a¨ Av‡Q nRywK (Pxbv jÉb) evRvi Ges paddle) Market. The huge lanterns nv‡MvBZv (Kv‡Vi ˆeVv) evRvi| Kvwgbvwi hung at Kaminari Gate are famous (eRª) dU‡K Sy‡j _vKv AwZKvq jÉY Head over to Tsukiji throughout Japan. cy‡iv RvcvbRy‡o weL¨vZ| Fish Market for the freshest raw seafood you can get in Tokyo.

Your next destination is the Mori Art Museum, situated on the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills. It is a modern art gallery and one of the best in the world. With a focus on both contemporary and international art, the Mori Art Museum presents innovative exhibitions on modern art. The museum makes a point of keeping the art easily accessible to the general viewing public, rather than making it overly obscure.

Located at the top of the Mori Tower, the Tokyo City View observation deck has high ceiling and glass walls that extend all the way around the building, giving visitors a spellbinding view of the entire city. Additionally, Sky Deck is an open-air rooftop deck that can be accessed when the weather permits. If art is your thing, head to the 21_21 Design Sight, a bunker-like museum with underground galleries that was created by Japanese designer Issey Miyake and architect Tadao Ando.

Afternoon

Sushi needs no introduction and if it’s your first time in Tokyo, head over to Tsukiji Fish Market for the freshest raw seafood you can get in Tokyo. You can choose to stand at long

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Rvcv‡bi HwZn¨evnx Lvevi mywki Rb¨ †KvbI f~wgKvi `iKvi †bB| hw` Avcwb †UvwKI‡Z cÖ_gevi †h‡q _v‡Kb Zvn‡j †mvRv mywKwR wdk gv‡K©‡U P‡j hvb| †hLv‡b cvIqv hv‡e †UvwKIi me‡P‡q ZvRv I LuvwU mgyw`ªK gvQ| Avcwb PvB‡j

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queues the popular restaurant, Sushi Daiwa or you can head to a comparatively lesser-known, Iwasa Sushi restaurant which is no less than its counterpart. If you are still not full, head over to Tsukiji Outer Market where you can find even more street food! End your lunch with a cup of green tea. You can have green tea with nearly every meal in Tokyo.

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Harajuku is a famous shopping and youth district of Tokyo. Here you will find everything from vintage to high fashion, and everything in between. Frequented by a lot of locals as well as foreign tourists, the streets here get really crowded. Wander down the nearby Takeshita Dori, a pedestrianised street, which is the focal point for rainbow-bright tribes of Tokyo teens, then explore the backstreets that lead off the main shopping boulevard Omotesando, which is filled with independent boutiques and cafés.

†UvwKIi g‡a¨ ZiæY‡`i kniL¨vZ nvivRyKy kwcs‡qi Rb¨ GKwU weL¨vZ ¯’vb| cyi‡bv w`‡bi d¨vkb †_‡K ïiæ K‡i AvaywbK nvB d¨vkb mvgMÖx ch©šÍ mewKQyB cvIqv hv‡e GLv‡b| ¯’vbxq Ges we‡`wk ch©U‡Ki Avbv‡Mvbvq GLvbKvi iv¯Ív¸‡jv †jvKvi‡Y¨ cwiYZ nq| cv‡ki dzUcv_ Zv‡Kwk`v †`vwi a‡i GwM‡q †h‡Z _vKyb| GUv isabyi g‡Zv ewY©j Avw`evmx ZiæY‡`i cÖavb ¯’vb| Gici cÖavb kwcs gj I‡g‡Zmv‡›`vi kvLv iv¯ÍvwU a‡i G¸‡Z _vKyb, †hwU e¨w³gvwjKvbvaxb me eywUK †`vKvb I K¨v‡d‡Z Vvmv|

Evening

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A joy for kids and people travelling with family, Tokyo Disneyland is a 115-acre theme park based on the films produced by Walt Disney. Opened in 1983 as the first Disney theme park outside of the United States, it is the fourth most-visited

Mar - Apr 2018

wkï Ges hviv cwievi wb‡q †eov‡Z †M‡Qb Zv‡`i Rb¨ GKwU gRvi ¯’vb n‡”Q †UvwKI wWRwbj¨vÛ| 115 GK‡ii Ici ¯’wcZ GB w_g cvK©wU wbg©vY Kiv n‡q‡Q Iqvë wWRwbi wm‡bgvi Av`‡j| 1983 mv‡j ¯’wcZ GB w_g cvK©wU hy³iv‡óªi evB‡i wWRwbi cÖ_g

Harajuku is a famous shopping and youth district of Tokyo

71

Akihabara, also known as Electronics town, is the place where you can buy all things electrical.

theme park in the world and is also the 9th park of the 11 worldwide Disney theme parks to be opened.

Inspired by the myths and legends of the sea, Tokyo DisneySea is made up of seven themed ports of call: Mediterranean Harbor, Mystery Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery and American Waterfront.

w_g cvK©| ch©UK AvKl©‡Yi w`K †_‡K GwU we‡k¦i PZy_© w_g cvK©| wek¦e¨vwc wWRwbi 11wU w_g cv‡K©i g‡a¨ GwU beg| mgy‡`ªi iƒcK_vi Ici wbf©i K‡i ‰Zwi Kiv n‡q‡Q †UvwKI wWRwbwm, †mLv‡b mvZwU w_g e›`i Av‡Q, †h¸‡jvi bvg †gwW‡U‡iwbqvb nvievi, wg‡÷wi AvBj¨vÛ, gvi‡gW †j¸b, Givweqvb †Kv÷, j÷ wifvi †Wëv, †cvU© wWmKfvwi Ges Av‡gwiKvb IqvUvidª›U|

Akihabara, also known as Electronics town, is the place where you can buy all things electrical — from TV sets, mobiles, to electronic items.

Electronic stores are now interspersed between manga and anime shops and all sorts of weird and wonderful homages to Japanese pop culture. The whole district is an overwhelming array of flashing lights, loud music and activity — a perfect end to your day!

AvwKnveviv, hv B‡j±ªwbKm UvDb bv‡gI cwiwPZ| GwU Ggb GKwU RvqMv †hLvb †_‡K †Uwjwfkb †_‡K ïiæ K‡i me B‡jUªwbKm cvU©m †Kbv hvq| GB kniwU‡Z GLb eû ms¯‹…wZi †gjeÜb N‡U‡Q| B‡j±ªwbK‡mi †`vKvb¸‡jv GLb g¨v½v I Gwb‡g †_‡K ïiæ K‡i Rvcvwb RbwcÖq cc avivi hveZxq DcKiY Øviv `viæYfv‡e cÖfvweZ| cy‡iv kniwU †hb SKg‡K Av‡jvi mvwi, Pov m½xZ I DÏxcbvq ficyi... †hLv‡b Avcbvi w`‡bi GKwU my›`i mgvwß NU‡Z cv‡i|

(Above) Aerial view of Shibuya Crossing, (opposite page left) Torii Gate tunnel in Nezu Shrine, Taiko drum performers

Inflight Entertainment Latest English MOVIES Kingsman: The Golden Circle

When their headquarters are destroyed and the world is held hostage, the Kingsman’s journey leads them to the discovery of an allied spy organisation in the US. These two elite secret organisations must band together to defeat a common enemy.

Dunkirk

72

Home Again

The LEGO Ninjago Movie

Transformers: The Last Knight

Everything, Everything

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul

Going in Style

Wonder Woman

MAR - APR 2018

Bangla Movies

Dipu Number Two

Ghuddi

Oggatonama

Shankhachil

Nayanmoni

Joyjatra

Titas Ekti Nodir Name

Daruchini Dip

Wrong Number

Nishwartha Bhalobasha

Lalon

Nadir Nam Modhumati

Chitra Nodir Pare 73

Hindi Movies

Badrinath ki Dulhania

Dhoom 3

Sultan

MS Dhoni: The Untold Story

The film focuses on Sultan Ali Khan, a fictional wrestling champion from Haryana whose successful career creates a rift in his personal life.

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Bangla Documentary

Preronay Bangabandhu

Bono Jatri

Tahar Pongktimala

Western Comedy

2 Broke Girls

The Grinder

New Girl

Modern Family

74

Bangla Telefilms

Boro Chele

Batch 27

Har Kipte

also featuring Karam

Moner Vitor Nodi

My name is Bill Gates

Bibek Mojid

Western Documentary Adventure Wanted

World Wide Web

Hooked on Cricket

Ultra Cars

Close Up

How it’s made: Dream Cars

MAR - APR 2018

GAMES

In-flight Scramble

Jungle Quest

Speed Circuit

Letter Mix

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In-flight Pool

audio english

Scorpions

Pink Floyd

Billy Joel

Aerosmith

ZZ Top

Abdul Jabbar

Ayub Bachchu

Sreekanto Acharya

Runa Laila

audio Bengali

Abdul Alim

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Offices Biman Bangladesh Airlines (domestic) Barishal

Saidpur

40 Sadar Road (3rd Floor), Barishal 1226 Bangabandhu Sarak (Rangpur Road), Saidpur, Nilphamari +88-01777 775530 : 05526 71995 Chittagong +88-01777 775538 (CGP (GMT +6) 88031, Biman bhaban, 1/2, CDA Avenue, Shah Amanat International Airport, Chitagong Sholosohar, Chittagong-4203 +88-031-2500990 to 95, +88-031-650671 to 75, +88-031-2500941 to 50 +88-031-650982 to 84 +88-031- 651890 to 91 Cox’ Bazar (CXB) (GMT +6) (0341), Green Villa, Puraton Kosba, Jessore, Motel Upal, Parjatan Holyday Complex , Cox’s Bazar District Manager: 0421-71995 +88-0341-63461 Stations Manager: 0421-71996 +88-01777 775526 Airport: +88 01777 77529

Jessore

Rajshahi Parjatan Motel, Shah Abdul Majid Road, Sreerampur, Rajshahi – 6000 +88 0721 774787, +88 0721 774838, +88-01777 775536

Sylhet (ZYL) (GMT +6) Airport road, Majumdari, Sylhet-3100 +88-0821-717026 to 28, +88-0821-717411-717421

Airport office Osmani international airport, Sylhet.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines (International) Abu Dhabi

Abu dhabi (AUH), (GMT+4) Sk. Zayed 2nd st./ Electra street, Bldg no. 5213, PO Box-4356 Abu dhabi, uae +971-02-6342597 Fax: +971-02-6344664 Mobile: +971-050-6146768 Email: auhuu@bdbiman.com

Abu Dhabi International Airport

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Dammam, Saudi Arabia

(GMT+3), Ace Building, Post Box No – 4492, Al Khobar 31952, Pepsi, Cola Road,.Dammam, KSA. +966-013-8873236 Fax: +966-013-8822523 Mobile: +966-55-2255895 Email: dmmuu@bdbiman.com

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Bahrain

Delhi Airport

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Bangkok Airport

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CIP-02, Level-3, IGI Airport, New Delhi 110037, India :+91-11-49638277 Fax: +91-11-49638277 Mobile: +91-9811322147 Residence :+91-11-28533590 Email :delkk@bdbiman.com

Doha (Qatar)

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Dubai, UAE

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Dubai International

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Hong Kong

Kuwait

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Airport Office Room-6So13, Lebel 6, South Concourse, Pax Terminal- 1, Hong Kong Airport +852-23298036 Fax: +852-23525830 Residence: +852-94702754 Email: hkgkk@bdbiman.com

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Kolkata, India

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London, UK

Riyadh

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Cargo And Stores & Purchase Office Stratus House Office Block (1st floor), Bedfont Road, Staines Middlesex TW19 7NH + 44-(0) 1784266116 Fax: +44 (0) 1784266097 Mobile: +44 (0) 7960650342 Email: bimancargo@yahoo.co.uk

N S C B International Airport Kolkata - 700052

Manchester, UK

(KUL), (GMT+8), 13th, Floor Menera Atlan, 161B Jalan Ampang 50450 Kualalumpur, Malaysia. +603-21646131 Fax: +603-21646142 Mobile: +6012-2736676 Email: kuluu@bdbiman.com

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Airport Office Airport Office

Madrid Eloy Gonzalo 27, 3rd Floor Offices IV and V, 28010 Madrid, Spain +34 - 91 - 458 57 35 Fax: +34 - 91 - 344 17 26 Biman.Spain@aviareps.com

Kualalumpur, Malaysia

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Room No – FF 58, Airport Mall Area + 965-24330863 Fax: + 965-22428671,+ 965-24330863 Mobile: + 965-99367919 Email: kwikk@bdbiman.com

Kuwait International Airport

Kolkata (CCU), (GMT+5.30), 99A, Park Street, Siddha Park, 6th Floor, +91-33-2226-6675 Fax: +91-33-2226-6674 Mobile: +91-9831098639 Email: ccuuu@bdbiman.com

+91-33-25119662 Fax: +91-33-25119662 Mobile: +91-9831098638 Residence: +91-33-25119826 Email: ccukk@bdbiman.com

Fax: +1-212-8084589 Residence: +1-718-526-4146 Email: nycuu@bdbiman.com

Manchester (MAN), (GMT+0.00) Suite – 1B, Portland Building 127-129 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 4PZ, UK +44-161-2286605/2636 Fax: +44-1612287070 Mobile: +44-7538626645 Residence: + 44-161-9486718 Email: manuu@bdbiman.com

Muscat, Oman (MCT), (GMT+4) Shaikh Al-Mashany Building, 3rd Floor, Opposite of Mosque Qaboos Khamis, Al-Shaqsi Street, PO Box – 1106, Ruwi, PC-112 Sultanate Of Oman. +968-24701128 Fax: +968-24703704 Mobile: +968-99474929 Email: mctuu@bdbiman.com Bimanmct@omantel.net.om

New York, USA New York (NYC), (GMT-5), 747 Third Avenue , 2nd Floor, NY-10017. +1-212-808-4477, +1-212-808-4523 Mobile:+1-917-520-8069,

Head Office : Balaka, Kumitola, Dhaka-1229, Bangladesh, Tel: +88-02-8901600, +88-02-8901730-44

King Khaled Int’l Airport Riyadh Riyadh, Kingdom Of Saudia Room No-1565 +966 1 220-0227 (a/p) Fax: +966-1 220-0227 Mobile: +966-50-424-6353 Email: ruhkk@bdbiman.com

Rome, Italy Rome (ROM), (GMT+1) Via Bissolati 54, Roma. +39-06-42884911 Fax: +39-06-42000211 Mobile: +39-3276868970 Email: romuu@bdbiman.com

Singapore Singapore (SIN), (GMT+8) 72 Anson Road, #05-03, Anson House, Singapore 079911 +65-64385220 Fax: +65-64387998 Mobile: +65-91119069 Email: sinuu@bdbiman.com

Airport Office Passenger Terminal Building, #041-49, Singapore Changi Airport Terminal -1, P.O. Box No-23, Singapore 819642 +65-65420067 Fax: +65-65426787 Mobile: +65-96323207 Email: sinkk@bdbiman.com

Toronto, Canada Toronto (YYZ), (GMT-5), 208, Bloor Street, West Suite No -806, PO M5S3B4, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. +1-416-9443381 Fax: +1-416-9448744 Email: nycuu@bdbiman.com

Yangon, Myanmar GSA - Transmarine Logistics Asia Pte Ltd, Room: R-18, 2nd Floor, Centre Point Tower No 65 Corner of Sule Pagoda Road and Merchant Street, Kyuaktada Township +95 1 371867-68, Fax: +95 1 371869 Mobile: +95943029328 Email: saeed.ahmed@transmarinelogistics.com

Biman

Bangladesh fleet

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd. Central Engineering Department

Interior Arrangement of Boeing 737-800 (12J+150Y = 162 PAX) Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit(02nos.)

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit(02nos.)

Entry/ Exit

Interior Arrangement of Boeing 777-300ER (35J+384Y = 419 PAX) Entry/ Entry/ Entry/ Emergency Exit Exit Exit Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Rows 1-28

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Rows 1-52 (Row No. 13 are omitted.)

Interior Arrangement of Boeing 777-200ER (12J+21W+286Y = 319PAX) Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit

Emergency Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit Rows 1-43 (Rows No. 3-7 are omitted.)

Entry/ Exit

77

Interior Arrangement of Q 400 Aircraft S2-AGR Passenger Compartment Y Class 74 Seats Emergency Exit

Service Door

FWD PAX DOOR

AFT PAX DOOR Pitch: 19 X 31”

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Fleet Data TECHNICAL DETAILS

AIRCRAFT 777-300ER

777-200ER

737-800

Passengers

35 J + 384 Y

12 J + 21 W + 286 Y

12 J+ 150 Y

Engines (maximum thrust)

GE90-100 (115,300 lbs.)

PW4090 (90,000 lbs.)

CFM56-7 (26,300 lbs.)

Maximum Fuel Capacity

181,300 liters

171,200 liters

26,025 liters

Maximum Takeoff Weight

755,000 lbs

632,499 lbs

70,987 kg

Maximum Range

7,825 NM (14,490 km)

7725NM (14316 km)

5,665 km

Typical Cruise Speed

905 km/h

1000 km/h

828 km/h

Wing span

212 ft. 7 in (64.8 m)

199 ft. 11 in (60.9 m)

112 ft. 7in (34.315 m)

With winglets

n/a

n/a

117 ft. 5 in (35.8 m)

Overall Length

242 ft. 4 in (73.86 m)

209 ft. 1 in (63.7 m)

129 ft. 6 in (39.472 m)

Tail Height

60 ft. 8 in (18.49 m)

60 ft. 8 in (18.49 m)

40 ft. 10.5 in (12.459 m)

Interior Cabin Width

20 ft. 4 in (6.2 m)

20 ft. 4 in (6.2 m)

12 ft. 4 in (3.7592 m)

BASIC DIMENSIONS

Note: Interior arrangement of S2-ADK has shown in figure. ‘W’ refers to Premium Economy Class of Biman and may vary according to routes.

biman-airlines.com

ONLY IB ACCREDITED BOARDING SCHOOL IN BANGLADESH

GRADE 3 TO 12

+880 176 6686 923 +880 177 0240 858 admissions@pledgeharbor.org

+880 961 4433 444

www.pledgeharbor.org

/PledgeHarborInternationalSchool

Admission Office : Lotus Kamal Tower One, 57 Zoarshahara, Level-2, Nikunja-2, Airport Road, Dhaka-1229.

School Campus : Singer Dighi, Maona, Gazipur-1741, Dhaka, Bangladesh

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