Bihanga may june 2015

In-flight magazine of Biman Bangladesh Airlines

May - June 2015 Vol 2 Issue 5

Visit Bangladesh Land of immense tourism opportunities

5

sports to BEAT THE heat this SUMMER

COX’S BAZAR

bargain eateries

Walking in the beaches of one of the favourite tourist destinations in Bangladesh

From local food to high-end ones, we list the best bargain restaurants in London

CEO

letter

May your trip be productive ‘beneficial and enjoyable’ Kyle Haywood Managing Director & CEO (Biman Bangladesh Airlines)

Thank

2

you for making the choice to travel with us today. Let me welcome you onboard.

April has been a busy month for us at the airline. On April 5, in the presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and over 300 invited guests, we formally welcomed in to the fleet, two Bombardier Dash8-Q400 aircraft. Both aircraft, with 74 single class economy seats, started commercial flights on April 6. In addition to adding additional daily frequencies between Dhaka and Chittagong, Sylhet, Kolkata and Rangoon, the week saw us start regular services to Cox’s Bazar, Barisal, Syedpur, Rajshahi and Jessore. Supported by a new media marketing campaign, the first three weeks of April as we go to print, saw a cabin factor (the total percentage of seats sold) at an encouraging 70%.

For those having travelled through the domestic terminal at HSIA recently, you may have seen a new extension to the building in the Departures Area. The work, being undertaken by the Civil Aviation Authority, Bangladesh (CAAB), will be completed by September and will add a number of modern check-in desks, new, modern, ticket desk areas for us, more retail options and an altogether more comfortable travel experience. We are excited by this development. We hope you are too.

In cooperation with the CAAB, excellent progress is made with the major upgrading and automation project in our Cargo facility at HSIA. Once fully implemented, all cargo will be handled efficiently through the main warehouse, improving service to our freight customers and fellow airlines.

We aim to have this fully completed by late June.

Cargo revenues are up over 50% year on year.

We are currently working on introducing a dedicated check-in area at HSIA for premium cabin travellers, as well as dedicated check-in desks for Gold/Silver members of the Biman Loyalty Club. We are advanced with this project, and it will be operational by end of May. With civil unrest in Yemen in April, the airline played its part in helping Bangladeshi’s in Yemen caught up in the crisis. We operated several additional rescue flights to Cochin in India and Djibouti to collect nationals who had managed to flee by ship from Yemen.

Furthermore, with the unprecedented natural disaster that has hit Nepal, the airline has operated additional flights to help those wishing to leave Kathmandu. We will continue to do whatever we can to assist in these difficult times for them.

In closing, from all of us at Biman Bangladesh Airlines, irrespective of whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, may your trip today be productive, beneficial and enjoyable. Thank you.

AvR

åg‡Yi Rb¨ Avgv‡`i †e‡Q wb‡q‡Qb, ZvB ab¨ev` RvbvB| wegv‡b ¯^vMZ| Avgv‡`i Rb¨ GwcÖj GKwU e¨¯Í gvm wQj| MZ 5 GwcÖj gvbbxq cÖavbgš¿x †kL nvwmbv I Avgwš¿Z 300 AwZw_i Dcw¯’wZ‡Z Avgiv AvbyôvwbKfv‡e Avgv‡`i en‡i `y‡Uv e¤^viwWqvi W¨vk8-wKD400 GqviµvdU ms‡hvRb K‡iwQ| `y‡Uv Gqviµvd‡UB Av‡Q 74wU K‡i wm‡½j BK‡bvwgK K¬vm Avmb| `y‡UvB hvÎv ïiæ K‡i‡Q MZ 6 GwcÖj †_‡K| G‡Z K‡i XvKv †_‡K PÆMÖvg, wm‡jU, KjKvZv I †i½y‡b cÖwZw`b AwZwi³ d¬vBU ms‡hvR‡bi evB‡iI GB mßv‡n K·evRvi, ewikvj, ˆmq`cyi, ivRkvnx I h‡kv‡iI Pvjy n‡q‡Q Avgv‡`i wbqwgZ Kvh©µg| bZzb GKwU wgwWqv gv‡K©wUs cÖPviYvi myev‡` GwcÖ‡ji cÖ_g wZb mßv‡n Avgv‡`i †Kweb d¨v±i (†gvU wewµ nIqv Avm‡bi kZKiv wnmve) `uvwo‡q‡Q 70 kZvs‡k, hv AZ¨šÍ Avkve¨vÄK| hviv m¤úªwZ GBPGmAvBG-Gi Avf¨šÍixY Uvwg©bvj w`‡q hvZvqvZ K‡i‡Qb, Zviv nq‡Zv wWcviPvi Gwiqv‡Z GKwU fe‡bi ewaŸ©Z AskwU jÿ¨ K‡i _vK‡eb| wmwfj Gwf‡qkb A‡_vwiwU, evsjv‡`k G Kv‡Ri ZË¡veavb Ki‡Q, hv wKbv †m‡Þ¤^i bvMv` †kl n‡e| G‡Z K‡i IB w`KUvq cvIqv hv‡e †ek wKQz AvaywbK †PK-Bb †W¯‹, bZzb AvaywbK wU‡KU †W¯‹ Gwiqv, AviI LyP‡iv †KbvKvUvi my‡hvM I m‡e©vcwi AviI Avivg`vqK åg‡Yi AwfÁZv| wmGGwe-Gi mn‡hvwMZvq, GBPGmAvBG-G †Z Avgv‡`i Kv‡M©v e¨e¯’vq ¯^qswµqKiY I eo gv‡ci Dbœqb cÖKíwU †ek PgrKvi GwM‡q‡Q| hLb Pvjy n‡e ZLb me¸‡jv Kv‡M©v †ek `ÿZvi m‡½ g~j Iq¨vinvD‡mi gva¨‡g wbqwš¿Z n‡e| G‡Z K‡i Avgv‡`i †d«BU Kv÷gvi (gvjevnx) I mZx_© GqvijvBݸ‡jvi cÖwZ †mevi gvbI evo‡e| Avgv‡`i jÿ¨ n‡jv Ry‡bi †kl bvMv` Gi KvR cy‡ivcywi †kl Kiv| Avgv‡`i Kv‡M©vi AvqI cÖwZeQi †e‡o‡Q 50 kZvsk nv‡i| GLb wcÖwgqvg †Kwe‡b ågYKvix‡`i Rb¨ GBPGmAvBG-Gi Rb¨ GKwU cy‡ivcywi wb‡ew`Z †PK-Bb Gwiqv ˆZwii Rb¨ KvR KiwQ Avgiv| GKBm‡½ wegvb jq¨vjwU K¬v‡ei †Mvì/wmjfvi m`m¨‡`i Rb¨ GKwU cy‡ivcywi wb‡ew`Z †PK-Bb †W¯‹-Gi R‡b¨I KvR Pj‡Q| †g gv‡mi †kl bvMv` GwU Pvjy n‡e| GwcÖ‡j B‡q‡g‡b Aw¯’wZkxj cwiw¯’wZi Kvi‡Y †`kwU‡Z AvU‡Kcov evsjv‡`wk‡`i mvnvh¨ Ki‡Z wegvb Zvi AskUzKz h_vh_fv‡e cvjb K‡i‡Q| G Qvov B‡q‡gb †_‡K hviv Rvnv‡R K‡i cvjv‡Z mÿg n‡qwQj Zv‡`i D×vi Ki‡Z fvi‡Zi †KvwPb I wReywZ‡ZI Avgiv †ek K‡qKwU †imwKD d¬vBU cwiPvjbv K‡iwQ| Gi evB‡iI †bcv‡j N‡U hvIqv AbvKvw•ÿZ cÖvK…wZK `y‡h©v‡Mi ci KvVgvÛz †Q‡o Avm‡Z PvIqv evsjv‡`wk‡`i wb‡q Avm‡Z AwZwi³ d¬vBU cwiPvjbv K‡i‡Q Avgiv| Zv‡`i G KwVb gyn‡~ Z© Avgiv Avgv‡`i mv‡a¨i g‡a¨ hv hv Kivi Zv Ki‡ev| cwi‡k‡l, Avcwb e¨emv ev we‡bv`b †h D‡Ï‡k¨B ågY K‡i _vKzb bv †Kb, Avcbvi G ågYwU dj`vqK, jvfRbK ev Dc‡fvM¨; †hgbB †nvK bv †Kb, wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvB‡Ýi mK‡ji cÿ †_‡K Avcbv‡K RvbvB ab¨ev`|

We are working to introduce a dedicated checkin area at HSIA for premium cabin travellers

May - june 2015

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd. CHAIRMAN: Air Marshal (Retd.) Jamal Uddin Ahmed Managing Director & CEO: Kyle Haywood DIRECTOR MARKETING & SALES: Mohammad Shah Newaz (Editorial Board) GM PUBLIC RELATIONS: Khan Musharraf Hussein (Editorial Board)

Subcontinental Media Private Limited Publisher & Director Vikas Johari Founder & Director Prakash Johari Executive Editor Abhishek Chakraborty

International Sales Offices Europe

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London | SERAPHINE MONEY Sales Director IMM INTERNATIONAL (UK brand) 10 Denmark Street, London WC2H 8LS, UK Tel: +44 20 3301 4900 Fax: +44 20 7240 3258 Mob: +44 777 459 8220 France l Nicolas Devos IMM International 80 Rue Montmartre, 75002 PARIS - FRANCE Tel : +33 (0)1 40 13 79 06 Fax : +33 (0)1 40 13 00 33 www.imm-international.com

India

Switzerland | Nathalie DUPUY IMM International CH Office Director IMM International Rue Tabazan, 9 ,1204 Geneve Tel: + 41(0)22 310 80 51 Mob: + 41(0)78 95 25 900 Email: n.dupuy@imm-international.com

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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: Suite 314, Crystal Palace, 3rd Floor, House # SE (D), Road No # 140, Gulshan South Avenue, Gulshan-1, 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

In-flight magazine of Biman Bangladesh Airlines

May - June 2015 Vol 2 Issue 5

Visit Bangladesh Land of immense tourism opportunities

6

5

spoRts to BEAt tHE HEAt tHis sUMMER

COX’s BaZar

Bargain eateries

Walking in the beaches of one of the favourite tourist destinations in Bangladesh

From local food to high-end ones, we list the best bargain restaurants in London

22 30

Go Ko Samui!

With crystal clear waters, this Thai island can be your ideal destination for that quick summer getaway

P‡jv †Kv mvgyB!

evjyKvgq ˆmKZ, †PvL auvav‡bv cÖevj, `„wób›`b Sibv, I ùwUK ¯^”Q cvwb -- GK Qz‡U GB MÖx®§ KvUv‡bvi Rb¨ GB _vB ØxcwUB n‡Z cv‡i Avcbvi Av`k© MšÍe¨

May - june 2015

On moonlight bay A fishing port and district headquarters in Bangladesh, Cox’s Bazar has one of the longest continual natural beaches on earth

P›`ªv‡jvwKZ mvMi wKbv‡i

evsjv‡`‡ki wdwks †cvU© I †Rjv kni K·evRvi| GLv‡bB wgj‡e GB MÖ‡ni me‡P‡q eo AweiZ GK mgy`ª ˆmKZ

52

Bargain eateries

Here’s our guide to some bargain eateries in London, which will keep you visiting these places again and again

ev‡R‡U Lvbvwcbv

jÛ‡bi Kg `v‡g LvIqv-`vIqvi Rb¨ GB n‡jv Avgv‡`i wb‡`©kbv| Avi G¸‡jvi Kvi‡YB †`Lv hv‡e Avcwb GLv‡b evi evi P‡j Avm‡Qb

58

Beating Earth

With French Open round the corner, we felt this is the best time for us to unveil a few of the important factors

K¤úgvb c„w_ex

`oRvq Kov bvo‡Q G eQ‡ii †d«Â I‡cb| ZvB AvgivI fvejvg, ARvbv wKQz Aa¨vq D‡b¥vPb Kivi GLbB †gvÿg mgq

explore 36 Sea, sun and sighting/

mgy`ª, m~h© I Ae‡jvKb You will be fascinated by

66 Revival of indigo/

bx‡ji cybR©vMiY Indigo has a re-invented image, thanks to the efforts

Dammam’s sea weather

of individuals, the Menonite

and pearl bright beaches

Central Committee

where you can enjoy a lot

and a project by CARE

of sightseeing

`v¤§v‡gi mvgyw`ªK AvenvIqv I gy³vi g‡Zv R¡jR¡‡j ˆmKZ¸‡jv †`‡L Avcwb gy» bv n‡q cvi‡eb bv adventure

Bangladesh

GLb bxj wd‡i †c‡q‡Q GK cybtAvwe®‹…Z fveg~wZ©| Avi Gi Rb¨ K…wZ‡Z¡i `vwe`vi n‡jb iæwe MRbfx, †g‡bvbvBU †m›Uªvj KwgwU Ges †Kqvi evsjv‡`k cwiPvwjZ GKwU cÖKí

42 Summer on the lake/

MÖx®§ KvUzK Rjvav‡i Just to start out with, here are some great water sports you should try to beat the heat

people 72 Samina Chowdhury/

mvwgbv ‡PŠayixi The songbird of Bangladesh talks about her life,

this summer

travelling and singing

Gev‡ii MÖx‡®§ †Póv K‡i †`Lvi Rb¨ gRvi wKQz IqvUvi †¯úvU©m-Gi K_v ejv hvK Gevi

fv‡jvevmvi Mv‡bi K_v fve‡jB ‡h wgwó MjvUv Kv‡b ev‡R, ‡m wen‡½i m‡½ AvjvcPvwiZvq †ewi‡q G‡jv

culture 48 The sacred fast/

cweÎ mshg Muslims celebrate the month of Ramadan not only as a religious festival, but also as a social occasion

gymjgvbiv igRvb gvmUv‡K †Kej GKwU ag©xq Drme wn‡m‡eB cvjb K‡i bv, GwU GKwU mvgvwRK DcjÿI

regular 02. CEO's Note GgwW-wmBIÕi K_v 08. Biman News ågY Z_¨ 70. Tarot fwel¨ØvYx 76. Biman Offices wegvb Kvh©vjq 77. Fleet Guide wegvbeni wb‡`©wkKv 78. Routes iæU

leisure 62 Tea time/

Pv cv‡bi weiwZ No matter where Bangladesh tea ends up, the way it is prepared for drinking depends on the consumers

evsjv‡`‡ki Pv †hLv‡bB hvK bv †Kb, wKfv‡e GUv ˆZwi n‡e Zv wbf©i K‡i †fv³vi Ici

Bihanga means... ...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 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|

biman-airlines.com

7

Cover story

explore

adventure

CULTURE

LEISURE

people

UPDATE

Sky Update Updates and facilities to make flying a pleasure

¯‹vB Avc‡WU

AvKvkågY Dc‡fvM¨ K‡i ‡Zvjvi Rb¨ Z_¨ I my‡hvMmyweav Biman adds five more destinations

Biman Bangladesh Airlines recently announced major growth to its flights within Bangladesh with its new schedule coming into effect from April 6.

In additing to adding more frequency on existing domestic routes between Dhaka and Chittagong and Dhaka and Sylhet, the national carrier started flight operations between Dhaka and five more domestic cities – Cox’s Bazar, Jessore, Rajshahi, Syedpur and Barisal. The airline previously had services to some of these destinations, but suspended them due to fleet constraints.

8

In a statement, the national carrier said, effective from April 6, per week, Biman would operate six flights to Cox’s Bazar, five to Jessore, three to both Rajshahi and Syedpur and two to Barisal. Furthermore, it will add up to 25 additional frequencies per week on Chittagong and Sylhet.

Biman is now flying to five more destinations in Bangladesh

The additional destinations will be operated by the recently acquired Dash8-Q400 aircraft in a single 74 seat configuration. Both Chittagong and Sylhet will also operate their existing frequencies on other aircraft types, reflecting market demand on the routes.

wegvb ‡bUIqv‡K© hy³ n‡”Q AviI 5wU MšÍe¨

In total, the airline will see massive growth in flights within Bangladesh, operating over 120 flights per week. The total number of seats will grow almost 80% weekly to a considerable 14,010.

Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U XvKv-PÆMÖvg Ges XvKv-wm‡jU †m±‡i PjvPjKvix eZ©gvb d¬vBU msL¨v AviI evov‡bv n‡e| RvZxq cZvKvevnx wegvb ivRavbx XvKv-i mv‡_ Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U K·evRvi, h‡kvi, ivRkvnx, ˆmq`cyi Ges ewikvj‡K hy³ K‡i d¬vBU cwiPvjbv Ki‡Q bZzb ‡kWz¨‡j|

wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ 6 GwcÖj †_‡K Kvh©Ki bZzb d¬vBU †kWz¨‡j bZzb 5wU MšÍe¨ Pvjymn Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U e¨vcK AvKv‡i d¬vBU cwiPvjb K‡i‡Q|

cÖKvwkZ GK wee„wZ‡Z e‡jøv wegvb, 6 GwcÖj †_‡K wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ cÖwZ mßv‡n K·evRvi-G 6wU, h‡kvi-G 5wU, ivRkvnx Ges ˆmq`cyi cÖwZwU‡Z 3wU Ges ewikv‡j 2wU d¬vBU cwiPvjbv Ki‡e| PÆMÖvg Ges wm‡j‡U eZ©gvb cwiPvwjZ d¬vBU msL¨vi AwZwi³ 25wU d¬vBU cwiPvjbv Ki‡e| me wgwj‡q Af¨šÍixY d¬vBU cwiPvjbvq e¨vcK cwieZ©b Avb‡e wegvb| bZzb †kWz¨‡j Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U mßv‡n 120wUÕi-I AwaK d¬vBU cwiPvjbv Ki‡e wegvb| G e¨e¯’vq Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U mxU msL¨v 80 kZvs‡ki †ekx evo‡e A_©vr cÖwZ mßv‡n 14,010 Rb hvÎx Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U wegv‡bi cwi‡mev cv‡eb|

A scenic beauty from Barisal, Bangladesh

May - june 2015

Af¨šÍixY iæ‡U wegv‡bi †Rvi`vi Kvh©µg MÖnY Dcj‡ÿ¨ e¨e¯’vcbv cwiPvjK I cÖavb wbe©vnx Kg©KZ©v Kv‡qj †nq~¨W e‡jb, 'eZ©gvb Ges bZzb †kWz¨j Abyhvqx †hme MÖvnK Af¨šÍixY MšÍ‡e¨ wegv‡b hvZvqvZ Ki‡eb Zv‡`i Rb¨ Avgv‡`i GB

Kyle Haywood, Managing Director and CEO of the airline, said, 'These are considerable positive improvements to the schedule.

Connecting even more cities by air within the country will support the growing business and leisure travel markets. Our customers will have much more choice as to where they fly and when they fly with the introduction of these new destinations and increase in frequency on existing routes. Furthermore, customers connecting with our international network can now enjoy a seamless travel experience to and from more cities in Bangladesh and international destinations."

Av‡qvRb D‡jøL‡hvM¨ GKwU cÖvwß| †`‡ki Af¨šÍ‡i AviI bZzb bZzb MšÍe¨ hy³ n‡j e¨emvqx I ågYKvix‡`i Zv cÖf~Z DcKv‡i Avm‡e| bZzb iæU evovi mv‡_ mv‡_ MÖvnKiv Zv‡`i cQ›` Abyhvqx †h_v Lykx, hLb Lykx †h‡Z cvi‡eb| GQvov, AvšÍR©vwZK iæ‡U ågYKvix Avgv‡`i hvÎx mvaviY GLb ¯^vQ‡›` †`‡ki wewfbœ MšÍe¨ †_‡K wegv‡bi AvšÍR©vwZK MšÍ‡e¨ Avmv-hvIqv Ki‡Z cvi‡eb Aev‡a, Abvqv‡m|"

Healthcare benefits for Biman employees According to the decision of the Board Of Directors of Biman, a deal has been signed between Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Delta Life Insurance Company on March 25 to bring the hospitalisation care facility of the officers/ employees and cabin crew of the Biman under Health Insurance Policy. The deal has been signed by the respective senior authorities of Biman and Delta Life Insurance. The deal has been effective from April 14, 2015.

nmwcUvjvB‡Rmb wPwKrmv cÖ`v‡bi e¨e¯’v

wegvb cwiPvjbv cl©‡`i wm×všÍ †gvZv‡eK wegv‡bi Kg©KZ©v/Kg©Pvix Ges †Kweb µz‡`i nmwcUvjvB‡Rmb wPwKrmv myweav ‡nj_ BÝy¨‡i‡Ýi AvIZvq cÖ`v‡bi j‡ÿ¨ MZ 25 gvP© 2015 wLªt wegvb evsjv‡`k GqvijvBÝ Ges †WjUv jvBd BÝy¨‡iÝ †Kv¤úvbxi g‡a¨ GKwU Pzw³ ¯^vÿwiZ nq| Pzw³‡Z wegvb Ges †WjUv jvBd BÝy¨‡i‡Ýi DaŸ©Zb Kg©KZ©v wbR wbR c‡ÿ ¯^vÿi K‡ib| Pzw³wU 14 GwcÖj 2015 wLªt n‡Z Kvh©Ki n‡e|

biman-airlines.com

9

In-Flight Services

Bb-d¬vBU ‡mevmg~n

Biman has designed all menus to reflect the fresh, innovative cuisine of Bangladeshi culture with Western flare. 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 vegetable sauteed, 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

10

‡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 vegetable sauteed, garnished with green chilli, butter-naan (in tandoor).

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Dessert

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Caramel custard garnished with canned peach.

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

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Biman has introduced new menus on all flights. Featuring selected dishes created by renowned English-Bangladesh Chef Tommy Miah these changes will upgrade and improve the meal standards in both Economy and Business Class.

We're especially excited about our long-haul Business Class where we are launching a full 4 course menu that includes new starters, 4 choices of main course and a new cheese tray as well as a dessert trolley. wegvb Zvi me KÕUv bZzb d¬vB‡U bZzb Lvevi ZvwjKv ms‡hvRb K‡i‡Q| L¨vZbvgv Bs‡iR-evsjv‡`wk †kd Uwg wgqvi ˆZwi K‡qKwU wbe©vwPZ Lvevi cwi‡ek‡bi gva¨‡g BK‡bvwg I weR‡bm K¬v‡mi Lvev‡ii ¸YMZ gvb nvjbvMv` I DbœZZi Kivi ga¨ w`‡qB GB cwieZ©b m~wPZ n‡e| Avgiv we‡kl K‡i Avgv‡`i `xN© hvÎvi weR‡bm K¬v‡mi Rb¨ †ewk DÏxwcZ, †hLv‡b 4wU bZzb Lv`¨ZvwjKv Pvjy Ki‡Z hvw”Q; Gi g‡a¨ i‡q‡Q bZzb ÷vU©vi, 4wU †gBb †Kvm© I GKwU bZzb wPR Uªwji m‡½ GKwU †WRvU© Uªwj| 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|

May - june 2015

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

†PKwj‡÷

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Ki‡e ågY msev‡`i GB wek¦

exhibition Meditex Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s biggest and only international exhibition on medical equipment, surgical instruments, healthcare, hospital equipment and supplies will be a one-stop platform to showcase from home and abroad the latest developments and emerging technology for the medical and hospital sector of the country.

When: 7-9 May Where: Dhaka

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book fair Abu Dhabi Book Fair

Abu Dhabi is rapidly becoming the hub of the Arab book trade and the point of reference in the Arabian Gulf. The international book fair will feature more than 5,00,000 titles from world’s leading publishing houses, book sellers and readers.

When: 7-13 May Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

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May - June 2015

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exhibition International Tourism Fair

A three-day event, Bangladesh International Tourism Fair will showcase everyone from the tourism industry, including tour operators, travel agents, meet & greet companies, airline, hospitals, flying club, air express companies, cruise operators, hotel, motel, tourism property developers, etc.

When: May 21-23 Where: Dhaka

AvšÍR©vwZK ch©Ub †gjv

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culture Ramadan Majlis 2015

A Ramadan Majlis is targeted to celebrate the season of Ramadan.

Open from 8 pm to 3 am daily (known as Suhoor), people come together with their friends, family and colleagues to enjoy the spirit of Ramadan, serving the quintessential Ramadan feast to elegant surroundings designed to suit your mood and company.

When: June 16-July 16 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre.

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May - June 2015

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shopping Amazing Thailand Grand Sale

Part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s ‘Amazing Thailand – Always Amazes You’ campaign, the event is an opportunity to bag all kinds of deals imaginable, from discounted merchandise to holiday packages and tours.

So, if shopping is your passion, this is one of the best times to visit Bangkok.

When: June 15 onwards Where: Thailand

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sports SEA Games

Singapore will host the 28th Southeast Asian Games with the Singapore Sports Hub as main sporting location. With the theme ‘Celebrating the Extraordinary’, 36 sports and 402 events will feature in this edition, which includes aquatics archery, athletics, badminton, table tennis, boxing, squash, cycling, equestrian, fencing, volleyball, football, golf, hockey, etc.

When: June 5-16 Where: Singapore Sports Hub

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May - June 2015

Located at the longest unbroken sea beach on earth at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, Ocean Paradise Hotel & Resort is the perfect destination for your next trip. Whether business or vacation, with the largest and soundproof ball-room and conference halls equipped with modern AV, a roof top restaurant with a panoramic view of Cox’s Bazaar, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a theme bar and many more, this is your perfect destination.

The main attraction, sea is just so walking distance from premise, you can even enjoy the breeze from your balcony anytime. Also the other historical attractions like 100ft Buddha statue, few monasteries of ancient times, even pristine nature of so long, all are nearby. With a brigade of hand-picked chefs and service personnel, with modern facilities, this hotel is not just a hotel, but your another home away from your home.

Location: Plot no. 28-29, Hotel Motel Zone, Kolatoli, Cox’s Bazar.

E-mail: reservation@oceanparadisehotel.com, web:www.oceanparadisehotel.com; Recreational Facilities: • Walking distance to the beach • Fitness centre/outdoor swimming pool • Spa/Sauna and Steam rooms • Suites with Jacuzzi • Sightseeing tours to Inani, Himchori Beach & other historical sites

/oceanparadisehotel

Restaurant Bar & Lounge • ‘Curry Leaf’ Ñ Multi Cuisine Restaurant • ‘Sky Bar’ Ñ Fun Food & Grill • ‘Kolatoli’ Ñ Lobby Cafe • ‘Nautica’ Ñ Sea View Terrace Bar • ‘Faham Shisha Corner’ Ñ Roof Top

Meeting & Events • ‘Captain Cox’ Ñ Grand Ballroom • ‘Arakan & Shah Shuza’ Ñ Ballroom • Sunset Terrace Multipurpose Banquet facilities, Sea view.

For booking please contact: Cox’s Bazar Office : Phone: (+88) 0341 52370 Ñ 79, Mobile: (+88) 01938846762-67 Dhaka Office: (+88) (02 8415397, Mobile: (+88) 01938846770, 01938846811

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Visit Bangladesh Year-2016 in Bangladesh headed by the Honorable Prime Minister. The meeting was held in the Prime Minister’s Office on March 4, 2015.

In that meeting, a decision was also made to prepare a Tourism Master Plan with short-term, mid-term and long-time focus to ensure sustainable development for overall benefits to the national economy.

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Bangladesh

is a land of immense tourism opportunities.

With its vibrant cultures, panoramic beauties, historical ruins, flora and fauna, sandy sea beaches, hills and forests and wildlife, and above all an always smiling and hospitable people, Bangladesh has a huge potential to become one of the most attractive tourist destinations of the world.

To let the world know about the wonderful tourism resources of the country, Honorable Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, HE Sheikh Hasina declared 2016 as the Visit Bangladesh Year-2016. The decision was made in a meeting of the National Tourism Council (NTC), the apex body of tourism

May - june 2015

The present government has laid huge emphasis on developing tourism as one of the main economic sectors. To boost up the current steady growth in tourism, there are some remarkable changes brought in by this government as the guiding factors to develop tourism. National Tourism Policy has been introduced in 2010 to guide the development activities with a targeted goal and objective; the Bangladesh Tourism Board as the National Tourism Organisation has been established with a high degree of responsibilities to develop Bangladesh as a tourist destination. Revamping of state-owned Biman Bangladesh Airlines with new and modern fleet of aircraft and improved services and the operation of as many as 27 international airlines has made Bangladesh easily accessible to and from almost all hubs of the world.

It is fact that Bangladesh is mostly unknown as a travel destination even if it has such resources which are unique in the world; the Sundarbans – the largest mangrove forest in the world and the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger, Cox’s Bazaar – the longest beach in the world, as many as 700 rivers and rivulets that wash away the flat plains leaving the carried silts which has made the land as the most fertile lands in the world, lush greens of picturesque tee gardens, thousand years old historical remains and the innate hospitality of the people which are genuine and authentic – are great feasts for tourists. However, the world is not known to these magnificent attractions because of insufficient promotional drive. So the present government has concentrated on to

at home and abroad. The Bangladesh Tourism Board, with the leadership of Mr. Akhtaruz Zaman Khan Kabir, will execute the campaign. Besides, a 26-member Executive Committee has been formed with the Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in the Chair and the Honorable Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism as the Advisor. The Chief Executive Officer of the Bangladesh Tourism Board is the Member-Secretary of the Executive Committee. To assist the Executive Committee in organising events, fairs and festivals throughout the country a Committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner of the District has been formed.

launch Bangladesh in the international media with a positive perspective to create a distinctive image and perception in the international community through Visit Bangladesh Year-2016 – an aggressive promotional campaign to uphold the country’s core identity and positive achievements.

Since the establishment of the Bangladesh Tourism Board as the National Tourism Organisation in 2010, Bangladesh started to enter in the global travel trade arena with whatever it has to offer to international tourists. Participation in the international travel-trade exhibitions has been made attractive and increased than the previous period. In those exhibitions, authentic and genuine Bangladesh was showcased which has created good responses from the international community.

In fact Bangladesh is widely known as a country where every offer is authentic and genuine, which is gradually becoming very popular to tourists from different parts of the country.

Throughout the celebration, authentic and genuine experience

To celebrate the year with the targeted outcomes at the end, a 42-member National Steering Committee headed

by Honorable Finance Minister, Mr. Abul Maal A. Muhit and Honourable Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Mr. Rashed Khan Menon MP as the co-chair has been formed to steer the Visit Bangladesh Campaign to fulfil the targets as set out by the year 2016. The committee represented by almost all concerned ministries, divisions, departments, organisations, chamber leaders, stakeholders associations, academicians will ensure greater coordination and integrated approach towards successful celebration of Visit Bangladesh Year-2016. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, with the dynamic stewardship of the Honorable Minister, Rashed Khan Menon, and Secretary Mr. Khurshed Alam Chowdhury, will act as the lead ministry to guide and supervise the campaign

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for tourists will be showcased in the typical Bengali style, which is also unique in the world.

Bangladesh is called the land of 13 festivals in 12 months. Social and cultural festivals are integral part of the day to day life here. From sowing seeds to harvesting, people here celebrate different festivals, some social and some religious, with a sense of togetherness. During the celebration of Visit Bangladesh Year2016, social and cultural festivals will be showcased as tourists attractions. Besides, many events and festivals will be organised to make the year as the year of celebration.

A three-day Beach Carnival will take place on January 2016 in Cox’s Bazaar in which lot of allied events, festivals and competitions will be organised to attract foreign visitors and participants. On the occasion of the year, an International Seminar on Buddhist Circuit Tourism will take place in Bangladesh where Mr. Taleb Rifai, the Secretary General of the United National World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), will attend along with

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a big participation of the tourism ministers from as many as 11 countries which are selling Buddhist Tourism. This will be organised to connect Bangladesh to the Buddhist Circuit Tourism initiative of South and South-east Asian Nations.

In November 2016, PATA Adventure Conference will take place in Bangladesh where hundreds of participants and buyers will attend and the resources and opportunities of adventure tourism in Bangladesh, especially in the Chittagong Hill Tract region, will be showcased.

In addition to different national and international events and festivals in Bangladesh, aggressive campaign will be carried

May - june 2015

out in major source countries for Bangladesh in different way. Campaign will be launched in few international and regional TV channels to create awareness in the international community about Bangladesh. In the digital and social media, innovative campaign to entice the new and young segments of tourists who love to explore the new and unspoilt beauty of a destination out of beaten track. Bangladesh is purely a destination to offer such experiences to the adventure lovers and volunteers. Road shows will be organised in different cities and commercial hubs of the world to increase the trade ties with the Bangladeshi and the international tour operators. They will be brought in Bangladesh to show the amazing business and trade opportunities, especially a consumer market of 160 million people.

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Participation in the international Travel and Tourism Exhibitions will be made attractive and special promotional campaign will be carried out during the exhibitions. Outdoor advertising at the venues will give onsite information about Bangladesh to the visitors. Bangladesh Missions and the Bangladesh Tourism Board will jointly conduct the campaign and public relations activities, especially in the source markets of the country.

The cuisines of Bangladesh are famous for its spicy taste. To promote the Bangladesh dishes, food festivals will be organised at home and abroad where various types of Bangladeshi dishes will be showcased.

Throughout the year, different activities will take place by which Bangladesh will position itself as a country which has many things to offer to tourists.

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On moonlight

bay

A fishing port and district headquarters in Bangladesh, Cox’s Bazar has one of the longest continual natural beaches on earth By: Daniel B. H a be r Photos: Resh a m Ta m a ng

P›`ªv‡jvwKZ mvMi wKbv‡i

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May - june 2015

23 120 kilometres of sandy beaches; that is why CoxÕs Bazar is the most visited spot in Bangladesh

The

full moon rises over the shimmering Bay of Bengal.

From the beach deck, there are several crescent-shaped black boats—something magically mythological like out of Sinbad the sailor of Arabian Nights fame—floating like phantoms on the silvery waters. Ghostlike effigies—which I later discover to be scarecrows—loom on the horizon. I have to pinch myself that I am not dreaming.

The next morning as we walk along the beach— said to be the longest unbroken contiguous beach in the world—I am attracted to the melodious sounds of guitar and, astonishingly, ukulele, typical lilting Hawaiian music, and for a moment I am disoriented wondering where I am: Waikiki or Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh?

Actually, I am a guest at the Mermaid Beach Resort, which with its palm-fringed beach shacks feels more like Goa or Bali than the

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mushrooming high-rise steel and concrete hotels that elbow each other in the country’s most renowned resort destination. As we breakfast on fresh local papaya, green coconut, pomelo, pomegranate and a sprawling buffet of local dishes, I am amazed to see 1960s moderne style furniture—bucket shaped pedestal chairs and chaise longues reminiscent of Miami Beach winter holidays of my youth.

First encounter

While sipping my cup of organic tulsi tea, we are greeted by a handsome young man in sunglasses and a jaunty red felt fedora with Bollywood charisma. He introduces himself as Anisul Hoque Chowdhury, the unassuming managing director of Mermaid Eco Tourism and the Mermaid Beach Resort.

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As a privileged Bangladeshi having holidayed in Goa and Bali for surfing as a teenager, he tells us that he had come to Cox’s Bazar also to surf and got inspired to open a Goan-type beach shack café serving up international standard good food and Western music. The café spawned the Mermaid Eco-Resort, a handful of wooden huts on a lagoon using recycled materials, located about 15 km south of town. With the popularity of the eco resort, the more upscale Mermaid Beach Resort came a few years later. Asked for the inspiration of the resort’s unique quirky design, Anisul tells me, “I was inspired not only by the Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, but I also like to use recycled materials.”

May - june 2015

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Gesturing to the 60s style furniture and wooden chests, tables, pillars and flooring, Anisul reveals that most of it had been recycled from retired cruise ships found in Chittagong’s famed ship-breaking yards. For a moment I could imagine the sun-tanned Mediterranean cruise passengers tanning themselves on the plastic webbed chaise longues that ended up on the Bay of Bengal now seating Bengali families. In stark contrast to the sleek highrises downtown, with only 19 bungalows in the Mermaid Beach Resort, Anisul tells us he believes Ôsmall is beautifulÕ.

lv‡Ui `k‡Ki AvmevecÎ Ges Kv‡Vi wm›`yK, †Uwej, LyuwU I †g‡Si w`‡K nvZ Bkvivq †`wL‡q Avwbmyj Rvwb‡q w`‡jb, G¸‡jvi †ewkifvMB evwZj Kiv cÖ‡gv`Zix †_‡K wimvB‡Kj K‡i evbv‡bv| PÆMÖv‡gi RbwcÖq RvnvR fvOvi BqvW© †_‡K msMÖn Kiv n‡q‡Q G¸‡jv| ÿwY‡Ki Rb¨ Avgvi Kíbvq †f‡m DV‡jv, †h cøvw÷K muvUv‡bv †PR jvD‡Ä e‡m f~ga¨mvM‡ii †iv‡` †cvov µzR wk‡ci hvÎxiv wb‡R‡`i Zvgv‡U KiwQ‡jb, †mUv Zvi †kl MšÍe¨ e½‡cvmvM‡i G‡m †VK‡jv, GLb Zv‡Z e‡m Av‡Q evOvwj cwievi¸‡jv| Suv PKP‡K kniZjxi AvKvk‡Quvqv fe‡bi mvwii g‡a¨ GUv †ek wecixZ †VK‡e †h, gvÎ 19wU Lycwi-evs‡jv Av‡Q gvi‡gBW weP wi‡mv‡U©| Avwbmyj Avgv‡`i ej‡jb wZwb wek¦vm K‡ib Ô†QvUB my›`iÕ|

Lot of options

Av‡Q A‡bK my‡hvM

Inviting us on a motor boat that plies the incoming tide, Anisul takes us on a boat tour of the sprawling 40 acre property to the organic farm where a grove of papaya trees and green vegetables are cultivated. There is also a shrimp and fish hatchery and a goshalla (dairy) housing 15 cows and a herd of goats. I’m

Avgv‡`i †gvUi †ev‡U Povi AvnŸvb Rvbv‡bv n‡jv, †mªvZ †K‡U GwM‡q Pjj IUv| Avwbmyj Avgv‡`i †ev‡U K‡i wb‡q †M‡jb 40 GKi RvqMvRy‡o Qov‡bv GK ˆRe-cÖvK…wZK Lvgv‡i| †mLv‡b †`L‡Z †cjvg †cu‡c Mv‡Qi GKUv †QvULvU eb Avi meyR kvKmewRi Avev`| GKUv wPswo I gv‡Qi n¨vPvwiI Av‡Q †mLvbUvq| Av‡Q GKUv †MvkvjvI, †hLv‡b i‡q‡Q

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amazed at the abundance of the papaya trees laden with fruits. Quenching our desire for the succulent fruits, the caretaker cuts up one for us to enjoy.

Later, for lunch, we get to taste some dishes which are mostly supplied by local organic farmers, including a fresh green salad, freshly caught red-snapper and vegetables.

One of the impressive features is not only the yummy food, but the artistic presentation with banana leaf and locally-grown flowers. One can’t help being awed by the abundance of adorning flowers everywhere, on posts, trees, tables—reminiscent of Bali.

15wU Miæ I GKcvj QvMj| evMv‡b †cu‡c Mv‡Qi AvwaK¨ Avgv‡K wew¯§Z K‡i‡Q| mim G djwUi cÖwZ Avgv‡`i g‡bvevmbv c~iY Kivi Rb¨ †Kqvi‡UKvi GKwU dj †K‡U w`j LvIqvi Rb¨|

There is no shortage of outdoor activities such as jetskiing, beach-biking, kayaking and hilltracking

c‡i, `ycy‡ii Lvev‡i Avgiv wKQz wWk Dc‡fvM Kijvg| hvi †ewkifvMB ¯’vbxq AM©vwbK Pvlx‡`i KvQ †_‡K G‡m‡Q| Gi g‡a¨ wQj ZvRv meyR mvjv`, ZvRv †iW ¯œ¨vcvi I mewR| ïay †h Lvev‡ii ¯^v`B Avgv‡`i gy» K‡i‡Q Zv bq, Kjv cvZv I ¯’vbxq dzj w`‡q mvRv‡bv cwi‡ekbvi aibUvI Avgv‡`i ü`q Quy‡q‡Q| GLv‡b ILv‡b Qwo‡q _vKv dz‡ji †mŠ›`‡h© GLv‡b we‡gvnxZ bv n‡q _vK‡Z cvi‡e bv †KD; LyuwU, MvQ, †Uwej meLv‡bB dz‡ji QovQwo -AveviI g‡b Kwi‡q †`‡e evwji K_v|

While, alas, there is no swimming pool on the premises, there is no shortage of other outdoor activities such as jet-skiing, beach-biking, kayaking and hill-tracking.

My more active photographer companion tries the beach biking.

wKš‘ GwK, Avkcv‡k †Kv_vI myBwgs cyj †bB| Z‡e AvDU‡Wv‡ii †Ljva~jvi †KvbI Afve †bB| Av‡Q †RU-w¯‹s, weP evBwKs, K‡qvwKs I wnj †UªwKs| Avgvi me‡P‡q mwµq d‡UvMÖvdvi m½xwU weP evBwKsB †e‡Q wbj|

Sight-seeing

`„k¨ Ae‡jvKb

In the afternoon, we take a CNG tuk-tuk into town for sight-seeing and visit the 1898 Aggameda Khyang, a typical Buddhist temple built in the stilted Arakanese

May - june 2015

we‡Kj Mwo‡q G‡j, Avgiv GKUv wmGbwR PvwjZ UzK-UzK fvov Kwi| I‡Z P‡o UvD‡bi †fZi P‡j hvB GUv IUv †`L‡Z| 1898 mv‡j AvMv‡g`v Lvqvs bv‡gi GKwU HwZn¨evnx †eŠ× gw›`i

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rich, Tasty Cuisine

Food to try in the port city

Local Simply the best If local cuisine is what you fancy, then head on for Poushee or Jhau Bon. Try exotic things like banana leaf and dry fish.

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Fancy Mermaid Cafe For something fancy, visit Mermaid Cafe. Right on the beach, it serves plates of delicious pastas, pizzas, steaks and calamari.

Simple KFC For those with simpler tastes, thereÕs a KFC right on CoxÕs BazarÕs only main road. Go there and have the best of snacks.

May - june 2015

style of neighbouring Rakhine state across the border in Myanmar. Upstairs in a somber black teak-wooded sanctuary called Maha Thin Daw Gree, we meet the elderly head abbot who shows us around a roomful of bronze Buddhas, including one donated by the Myanmar Government and the ancient one donated by, and dedicated to Capt. Hiram Cox, the British East India company representative who worked with the grateful Arakanese and in whose honour Cox’s Bazar is named.

If the ghost of Captain Cox who died prematurely in 1799 were to come back today he would be amazed to see how this once eponymous backwater bazar has been transformed into a bustling resort.

We get back to the Mermaid Resort in time to see the sun setting on the Bay of Bengal before the moon rises and shines on the black slivers of boats going out for their nocturnal catch. In my mind I can hear Doris Day crooning to ukulele accompaniment, “We were sailing along, on Moonlight Bay, you could hear the mermaids singing, they seemed to say: you have stolen my heart . . .”

Getting there: Cox’s Bazar can be reached directly by air from Dhaka, or by bus from Dhaka or Chittagong.

†`Ljvg, hv mxgvbvi Icv‡ii cÖwZ‡ekx †`k wgqvbgv‡i ivLvBb iv‡R¨i AvivKvwb Nivbvq wbwg©Z| Dc‡ii w`‡K AÜKviv”Qbœ Kv‡jv †m¸b Kv‡Vi ˆZwi GKwU cÖv_©bv Ni i‡q‡Q -- hvi bvg gnv w_b W wMÖ| g‡Vi eq¯‹ cÖavb cy‡ivwn‡Zi m‡½ †`Lv n‡jv Avgv‡`i| wZwb Avgv‡`i GKwU K‡ÿ wb‡q †M‡jb, †hLv‡b A‡bK¸‡jv †eªvÄ g~wZ© ivLv| Gi g‡a¨ GKwU g~wZ© wgqvbgvi miKv‡ii †`Iqv Dcnvi, Av‡iKwU w`‡qwQ‡jb K¨v‡Þb wnivg K·| IB g~wZ©Uv DrmM© Kiv n‡qwQj weªwUk B÷ BwÛqv †Kv¤úvwbi IB cÖwZwbwa‡K, whwb wb‡ew`Z AvivKvwb‡`i m‡½ KvR K‡iwQ‡jb| Avi Zvi m¤§v‡bB GB RvqMvi bvg ivLv nq K·evRvi| K¨v‡Þb K· Aíeq‡m gviv hvb, 1799 mv‡j| †KvbIfv‡e hw` Zvi AvZ¥v GLv‡b GKevi P‡j Av‡m Z‡e wZwb AevK n‡q †`L‡eb Kxfv‡e †mB †ebvwg wcwQ‡q cov evRviUv kke¨¯ÍZvq ficyi wi‡mvU© n‡q †M‡Q| Puv` IVvi Av‡MB e‡½vcmvM‡i m~h©v¯Í Ae‡jvK‡bi Avgiv mgqg‡Zv gvi‡gBW wi‡mv‡U© wd‡i †Mjvg| GiciB †Zv iæcvwj Av‡jvq wPKwPK Ki‡Z _vKv †bŠKv¸‡jv †ewi‡q co‡e Zv‡`i ivZ †R‡M gvQ aivi Kv‡R| Avwg Avgvi g‡b Kvb †c‡Z ïbjvg Wwim †W wejvc K‡i DKz‡j‡ji my‡i MvB‡Qb, Ò‌cvkvcvwk Avgiv P‡jwQ cvj Zz‡j, P›`ªv‡jvwKZ mvMi wKbv‡i, ïb‡Z cv‡e RjKb¨v‡`i Mvb, Zviv †hb ej‡Q, Zzwg Avgvi ü`q niY K‡i‡Qv...Ó Kxfv‡e hv‡eb: XvKv †_‡K mivmwi AvKvkc‡_ K·evRvi hvIqv hvq| A_ev ev‡m K‡i XvKv ev PÆMÖvg †_‡KI hvIqv m¤¢e|

Biman connects Dhaka-CoxÕs Bazar with six weekly flights. (www.biman-airlines.com)

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Go Ko Samui!

Sandy beaches, dazzling corals, picturesque waterfalls, swaying coconut trees and crystal clear water – this Thai island can be your ideal destination for that quick summer getaway By: Ku na l D o l ey

P‡jv †Kv mvgyB! evjyKvgq ˆmKZ, †PvL auvav‡bv cÖevj, `„wób›`b Sibv, bvi‡Kj Mv‡Qi †`vj LvIqv I ùwUK ¯^”Q cvwb – GK Qz‡U GB MÖx®§ KvUv‡bvi Rb¨ GB _vB ØxcwUB n‡Z cv‡i Avcbvi Av`k© MšÍe¨

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Just

picture this. You are in an island of great natural beauty and variety — the palmfringed shoreline and coconut and fruit cultivation of the coastal lowlands rise to a central granite massive, the slopes of which are cloaked in virgin rainforest.

Sounds idyllic, especially for a quick summer getaway, no? Well, if you love the sun, sea and the sand — with a pinch of adventure thrown in — Ko Samui off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus in Thailand can be that holiday destination that you have been dreaming about for quite some time now.

To explore

Ko Samui, pronounced gaw (vowel like ou in cough), is an island located in the Chumphon archipelago in the gulf of Thailand, some 700 km south of Bangkok and about 80 km from the eastern coastline of southern Thailand. At 247 sq km, Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand and the largest island in the Chumphon Archipelago of over 80 (mostly uninhabited) islands which form the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a kayaking and snorkelling paradise.

May - june 2015

ïay

Kíbv Kiæb, `viæb GK cÖvK…wZK †mŠ›`h© I ˆewP‡Î¨ QvIqv Øx‡c P‡j †M‡Qb -- DcK‚jRy‡o cvg Mv‡Qi mvwi Ges DcK‚jxq wbPzf~wg¸‡jv‡Z bvi‡Kj I Ab¨vb¨ d‡ji evMvbUv ax‡i ax‡i D‡V †M‡Q MÖvbvBU cv_‡i QvIqv GKwU wekvjvKvq f~wg‡Z, hvi XvjUv Avevi †Q‡q Av‡Q GK Kzgvwi NbR½‡j| ïb‡Z Av`k© RvqMvi g‡Zv †kvbvq, we‡kl K‡i `ªæZ MÖx®§ KvUv‡bvi Rb¨, bq wK? fvj K_v, Avcwb hw` m~h©, mgy`ª I evwj fvjev‡mb -- Z‡e Gi m‡½ GK wPgwU †ivgv Ry‡o w`‡Z PvB‡j †Kv mvgyB n‡jv QzwU KvUv‡bvi Ggb GK MšÍe¨, hvi ¯^cœ Avcwb †ek wKQz w`b a‡iB †`‡L Avm‡Qb| _vBj¨v‡Ûi µv Bm_gv‡mi c~e© DcK‚‡j Gi Ae¯’vb|

hv wKQz Av‡Q

†Kv mvgyB-Gi D”PviY A‡bKUv M Gi g‡Zv (fvwi Mjvq Bs‡iwR ¯^ieY© I BD Gi g‡Zv)| GB ØxcwU _vBj¨v‡Ûi DcmvMixq A‡ji Pzg‡dvb Øxcgvjvq Aew¯’Z| e¨vsKK †_‡K 700 wK‡jvwgUvi `wÿ‡Y Ges _vBj¨v‡Ûi `wÿYv‡ji c~e© DcK‚j †_‡K 80 wK‡jvwgUvi `~‡i| 247 eM© wK‡jvwgUvi Ry‡o _vKv mvgyB _vBj¨v‡Ûi g‡a¨ wØZxq I Pzg‡dvb Øxccy‡Äi 80wU Øx‡ci g‡a¨ (†ewkifvMB RbemwZnxb) me‡P‡q eo Øxc| GLv‡bB M‡o D‡V‡Q Avs _s b¨vkbvj †gwib cvK©| KvqvwKs I ¯œi‡Kwjs‡qi ¯^M©I ejv hvq Guv‡K| †Zv, †mLv‡b †cuŠQv‡bvi ci Kx Kx Ki‡eb Avcwb? 25 wK‡jvwgUvi j¤^v I 21 wK‡jvwgUvi

(From top) Riding a quad motorbike is always fun; Renting a car in Koh Samui can be quite expensive; Wat Plai Laem is a must see

Motorbikes can be rented virtually anywhere on Ko Samui for between 120 and 700 baht per day, depending on the size and season So what do you do once you reach there? At 25 km length and 21 km width, Samui is big enough for serious exploration by the adventurous and fit, but can be circumnavigated in just a couple of hours by motorbike or car.

Motorbikes can be rented virtually anywhere on Ko Samui for between 120 and 700 baht per day, depending on the size and season (a small 125-cc scooter should cost no more than 200 baht).

PIov GB mvgyB Øxc †ivgvÂwcÖq I wdU kix‡ii gvbyl¸‡jvi wmwiqvm Awfhv‡bi Rb¨ h‡_ó eo e‡U| Z‡e GKLvbv †gvUievBK ev Kv‡i P‡o cy‡iv ØxcUv‡K P°i w`‡Z mgq jvM‡e eo‡Rvi K‡qK NÈv| ‡Kv mvgyB‡qi †h‡KvbI RvqMv †_‡KB †gvUievBK fvov wb‡Z cvi‡eb| mviv w`‡bi Rb¨ fvov ¸b‡Z n‡e 120 †_‡K 700 ev‡_i g‡a¨| fvovUv wbf©i K‡i Mvwoi AvKvi I †gŠmy‡gi Ici (GKwU †QvU 125 wmwmi †gvUievB‡Ki fvov 200 ev‡_i †ewk nIqvi K_v bq)|

As for cars, there are many hiring options, including the local arms of international companies such as Budget and Avis. Prices are fairly expensive (800 to 1,500 baht/day for a small car), but the convenience of a small airconditioned car may be worth it.

Kv‡ii K_v ej‡Z †M‡j, GLv‡b fvov Kivi A‡bK my‡hvMB Av‡Q| ev‡RU I A¨vwf‡mi g‡Zv AvšÍR©vwZK †Kv¤úvwb¸‡jvi ¯’vbxq cÖwZwbwaiv Av‡Q| fvovUv GKUz †ewkB g‡b n‡Z cv‡i (mviv w`‡bi Rb¨ †QvU GKUv Mvwoi fvov 800 †_‡K 1500 ev_), Z‡e †QvULvU GKUv kxZvZc wbqwš¿Z Mvwo wn‡m‡e fvovUv wVKB Av‡Q|

33 (From top) Renting a motorbike is fairly cheap here; Q Signature Samui Beach Resort

Life in a beach

The major reason why people come to Samui is to enjoy the beaches. The most popular and commercialised beaches are Chaweng and Lamai, while the northern beaches and their adjacent villages of Mae Nam, Bophut, Bang Rak (Big Buddha) and Choeng Mon are more peaceful choices, and the west coast beaches are still (comparatively) quiet.

Other than lying on the beach with a cold drink in hand and looking at the tourists sauntering past, there isn’t all that much to see on the island. A certain pair of rocks on Lamai amuses some visitors, Bang Rak has a large but nondescript Buddha statue, and there are some waterfalls (notably Na Muang) of minor interest.

(From top) Snorkeling, sightseeing and kayaking tour are quite popular in Ang Thong National Marine park; Nora Beach offers a lot of activities for tourists

If you’re done with relaxing, you can indulge in some diving either in the nearby Ang Thong National Marine

ˆmK‡Zi Rxeb

mvgyB‡Z Avmvi eo KviYUv n‡jv ˆmKZ¸‡jv‡K Dc‡fvM Kiv| me‡P‡q RbwcÖq I evwYwR¨K ˆmKZ¸‡jv n‡jv PvI‡qs I jvgvB| Ab¨w`‡K Dˇii ˆmKZ¸‡jv I Zv‡`i wbKUeZ©x Mövg¸‡jv -- gvB bvg, †evdzZ, e¨vs ivK (eo ey×) I †Pv‡qs gb n‡jv A‡cÿvK…Z wbwiwewj ¯’vb| cwðg DcK‚‡ji ˆmKZ¸‡jv GLbI Zzjbvg~jKfv‡e G‡Kev‡iB kvšÍ| †Kvgj cvbxq nv‡Z ˆmK‡Zi av‡i ï‡q mvg‡b w`‡q ch©UK‡`i Ajm MwZ‡Z †nu‡U hvIqv †`Lvi †P‡q GB Øx‡c Avm‡j Lye †ewk wKQz Kivi †bB| jvgvB‡Z _vKv K‡qK †Rvov cv_i nq‡Zv wKQz ch©UK‡K †ek PgrK…Z Ki‡e| Avi e¨vs ivK-G cvIqv hv‡e GKUv AwZKvq ey× g~wZ©, Z‡e eY©bv cvIqv hv‡e bv IUvi| Avi i‡q‡Q Aj¦we¯Íi AvKl©Y Kivi g‡Zv wKQz Sibv (bv gyqvs bv‡g cwiwPZ)| Av‡qk Kivi cvjv PzwK‡q †bevi ci, cvk¦©eZ©x Avs _s b¨vkbvj †gwib cvK© A_ev †Kv ZvI-G wb‡R‡K mu‡c w`‡Z cv‡ib WvBwfs‡q -- †h‡nZz mvgyB‡qi evjyKvgq ˆmKZ¸‡jv‡K †`Lvi welqUv LvwbKUv `ye©j| mviv w`‡bi WvBwfs‡qi wUª‡ci

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Biman connects Dhaka-Bangkok with five weekly flights. (www.biman-airlines.com)

34 Anglers have reason to celebrate with fairly good fishing options in Koh Samui

Park or Ko Tao as the visibility around Samui’s sandy beaches tends to be poor. You can book diving day trips at dive shops, most of which are based in Chaweng. The dive boats tend to leave from the pier at Bophut and Bang Ruk. Other island attractions include coral beds at Laem Set and Thong Takhian; the nearby butterfly garden and aquarium; a snake farm; a monkey theatre at Bo Phut, and a massive seated Buddha image on Fan Isle.

Exquisite seafood

Samui is well known for its coconuts, which are available everywhere and quite tasty. Being an island, seafood is generally a good choice, although in high-season demand often exceeds local supply. From delicious local snacks to international five-star cuisine, every taste is catered to. The larger beaches have a number of international restaurants as well with Bophut having a particularly good reputation.

So, here’s to a fulfilling summer!

May - june 2015

From delicious local snacks to five-star cuisine, you can find every dish here Rb¨ WvBf kc¸‡jv‡Z eyK Ki‡Z cv‡ib| G‡`i †ewkifvMB PvI‡qs wfwËK| ‡evdzZ I e¨vs iæK-Gi †RwU †_‡KB mPivPi WvBwfs †evU¸‡jv †Q‡o hvq| Øx‡ci Ab¨vb¨ AvKl©‡Yi g‡a¨ i‡q‡Q jv‡qg †mU I _s ZvwLqvs‡qi cÖevj cÖvPxi; cvk¦©eZ©x cÖRvcwZi evMvb I GKzzwiqvg; GKwU mv‡ci Lvgvi, †evdz‡Zi GKwU gvswK w_‡qUvi I d¨vb AvB‡R‡ji GKwU AwZKvq ey‡×i Qwe|

PgrKvi wmdzW

bvi‡K‡ji Rb¨ ixwZg‡Zv weL¨vZ mvgyB| meLv‡bB cvIqv hv‡e GwU; my¯^v`yI| †h‡nZz GUv GKUv Øxc, ZvB ¯^fveZB mvgyw`ªK Lvevi †e‡Q †bqvB DËg| gv‡S gv‡S Pov †gŠmy‡gi mgq †Zv Pvwn`vi †P‡q †hvMvbB †ewk _v‡K| eo ˆmKZ¸‡jv‡Z AvšÍR©vwZK †i¯Íiuv Av‡Q †ek K‡qKwU| Z‡e Gm‡ei Rb¨ fv‡jv mybvg Kzwo‡q‡Q †evdzZ| †Zv GUvB n‡jv MÖx®§Uv‡K cwic~Y© Kivi RvqMv!

FOR'UR STAY

The ibis Hotel in Bophut satisfies with a great garden and a clean and huge swimming pool.

The SP Chaweng Palace offers big and fancy rooms with air conditioning, TV, refrigerator, balcony and free wifi.

The calm location of Hutcha Resort is perfect for some relaxing days.

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Sea, sun and

sighting

You will be fascinated by Dammam’s sea weather and pearl bright beaches where you can enjoy sightseeing while taking a walk on the Corniche

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mgy`ª, m~h© I Ae‡jvKb

`v¤§v‡gi mvgyw`ªK AvenvIqv I gy³vi g‡Zv R¡jR¡‡j ˆmKZ¸‡jv †`‡L Avcwb gy» bv n‡q cvi‡eb bv| GLv‡b my›`i cÖvK…wZK `„k¨ Ae‡jvK‡bi cvkvcvwk PvB‡j LvwbKUv †nu‡U Avm‡Z cv‡ib DcK‚j‡Nulv iv¯Ívq

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Dammam Corniche has appealing nature and beautiful views to it. It includes green spaces and sandy areas, childrenÕs playgrounds, kiosks and service facilities.

Famously, national celebrations and Eid ceremonies are held on it every year.

`v¤§vg Kwb©‡k Av‡Q Av‡e`bgqx cÖK…wZ I `„wób›`b f~`„k¨| meyR f~wgi cvkvcvwk Av‡Q evjyKvgq ˆmKZ| i‡q‡Q wkï‡`i †Ljvi RvqMv, †QvU †`vKvb I bvbvwea †mev| Z‡e cÖwZ eQiB RvZxq bvbvb Drme I C` D`hvc‡bi Abyôvb nq GLvbUvq|

38

Al-Marjan is an artificial island connected to the Dammam pier across a bridge. It has everything that tourists and families need, such as green spaces, seating areas and children’s playgrounds. Also, you can enjoy a sea ferry by special boat rides to and from the island with a free meal.

Avj-gviRvb n‡jv Ggb GKwU K…wÎg Øxc hv `v¤§v‡gi †RwUi m‡½ GKwU †mZzi gva¨‡g Ry‡o Av‡Q| GKRb ch©UK I GKwU cwiev‡ii hv wKQz `iKvi n‡Z cv‡i Zvi meB Av‡Q GLv‡b; †hgb -- meyR RvqMv, emvi ¯’vb I wkï‡`i †Ljvi RvqMv| Avevi PvB‡j Øxc †_‡K †ei n‡Z ev Øx‡ci w`‡K Avmvi mgq we‡kl †ev‡U P‡o Dc‡fvM Ki‡Z cv‡ib mvgyw`ªK †dwi| m‡½ Av‡Q webvg~‡j¨i Lvevi|

May - june 2015

The traditional market displays a lot of goods and clothing for men and women. It's also known for oriental eastern perfumes, gold and jewellery stores that sell very distinct and authentic products.

Uª¨vwWkbvj gv‡K©U GLv‡b †`L‡Z cv‡eb GKMv`v HwZn¨evnx cY¨, bvix I cyiæ‡li †cvkvK Ges cÖv‡P¨i myMÜx| Av‡Q ¯^Y©mn Ab¨vb¨ Aj¼v‡ii †`vKvb; †hLv‡b wgj‡e Abb¨ I wbLuyZ me cY¨|

39 A date seller preparing the date to sale.

wewµi Rb¨ †LRyi¸‡jv‡K ˆZwi K‡i wb‡”Q GK †LRyiIqvjv|

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Tarout Castle is an archeological landmark located in the centre of Tarout Island dating back to 5000 years. It features a traditional architectural style and it was built on the ruins of former settlements and civilisations.

GwU UviæU Øx‡ci GKwU cÖZœZvwË¡K wb`k©b, hv wKbv cÖvq 5000 eQ‡ii cyi‡bv| cÖ_vMZ ¯’vcZ¨Kjvi w`K wb‡`©k K‡i GwU Ges wbwg©Z n‡qwQj Gi mg‡qi Av‡MKvi emwZ I mf¨Zvi aŸsmve‡k‡li Ici|

A Saudi man making fishing nets in the traditional way.

cÖ_vMZ Kvq`vq gvQ aivi Rvj evbv‡”Q GK †mŠw` bvMwiK|

40

Dammam Regional Museum has six halls in which you can travel through time, starting from the Stone Age to the present.

Don't miss

May - june 2015

`v¤§vg wiwRIbvj wgDwRqv‡g Av‡Q QqwU nj| mgq cwiågY Ki‡Z cvi‡eb GLv‡b| cÖ¯Íi hyM †_‡K ïiæ K‡i AvaywbK Kvj ch©šÍ meB Av‡Q|

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

KING ABDULLAH PARK

Dolphin Village

King Fahad Park

Located on the seafront, it is the most modern destinations with distinctive design. It also involves extensive green spaces equipped with all facilities.

It is an entertainment village located at the entrance of Al-Marjan Island. It is full of amusement rides, swimming pool, daily dolphin and seal shows, etc.

Considered one of the largest in the Eastern Province, it has numerous waterfalls, eight bridges and two artificial lakes, amusement rides, restaurants and other services.

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3 Scindia House, Janpath, New Delhi - 110001 Tel : +91.11.2331.4095/3712, Fax : +91.11.2331.6049

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The BikanerState Jewellers

3 A Sunder Nagar Market, New Delhi - 110003 Tel : +91.11.2435.3934/3372

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Summer on the

lake

Let’s have some water-based fun to beat the heat By: Amit Ra n j a n Paul

May - june 2015

LEISURE

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43

MÖx®§ KvUzK

Rjvav‡i

Mig‡K ey‡ov AvOyj †`Lv‡bvi Rb¨ Pjyb †g‡Z IVv hvK wKQz R‡ji †Ljvq

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g‡a¨ MÖx®§B Avgvi me‡P‡q cQ‡›`i mgq| Z‡e †mUv Mi‡gi Rb¨ bq, KviYUv n‡jv Avwg R‡ji g‡a¨ _vK‡Z cQ›` Kwi| †mB wkïKvj †_‡KB Avwg †hb GKUv e¨vOvwP wQjvg| Avgvi cwiev‡ii †jvKR‡bi gy‡L ï‡bwQ Avwg bvwK nuvU‡Z †kLvi Av‡MB muvZvi wk‡L †dwj! ZvB ejvB evûj¨, Avwg GUv †R‡b Lye D‡ËwRZ †h Lye wkNªB Mig co‡e Ges cvwb wb‡q hZ ai‡bi gRv Av‡Q me wKQz‡ZB Suvwc‡q co‡Z cvi‡ev| Avi Gev‡ii MÖx‡®§ †Póv K‡i †`Lvi Rb¨ gRvi wKQz IqvUvi †¯úvU©m-Gi K_v ejv hvK Gevi|

Subwing

mveDBs

Subwing consists of two joined wings made of carbon and fibreglass that are towed after a boat while the user steers with one hand on each wing. A beautifully crafted product, Subwing can define a completely new activity for all those who like extreme Jetovator is sports and playing with attached to a 50 feet hose that sucks natural elements. It is said up water to keep the that the idea of underwater user airborne at flying was tested on a father an altitude as and son using driftwood high as 30 feet. and rope from the shore. This was the start of an entirely new underwater activity reminiscent of the sea turtle’s graceful gliding.

44

Jetovator

Also called a water powered flying bike, it is a aluminum motorcycle shaped device attached to a 50 feet hose that sucks up water to keep the user airborne at an altitude as high as 30 feet. Priced at about $9,000 the Jetovator with top speeds of 22mph is targeted towards thrill seekers with their own water craft, which is required to power the Jetovator.

Jetlev

The Jetlev-Flyer is a personal water powered jetpack that weighs in at 30 pounds and is joined to a small boat that follows the jetpack where it flies, providing it with the water supply it requires to remain airborne. The jetpack has a 33 feet long polyester and rubber hose attached from the boat through which the flyer soaks up water to fly at about 25mph about 30

May - june 2015

eQ‡ii

is one of my favourite times of the year, not because of the heat but I love being in the water. I’ve been a little tadpole ever since I was practically a baby. Family legend has it that I could swim before I could walk! So needless to say, I’m very excited about the fact that it will soon be warm enough to engage in all kinds of water-based fun. Just to start out with, here are some great water sports you should try this summer!

mveDBs n‡jv Kve©b I dvBeviMøvm w`‡q ˆZwi `y‡Uv Ry‡o _vKv cvLv‡K †ev‡Ui m‡½ †eu‡a †U‡b †bIqv, hLb GK nv‡Z GKwU K‡i `ywU cvLvB AuvK‡o a‡i ivL‡Z nq| cÖK…wZ w`‡q †Lj‡Z hviv cQ›` K‡ib Ges hv‡`i wec`RbK me †Ljva~jv cQ›`, Zv‡`i Rb¨B mywbcyYfv‡e ˆZwi mveDBs bv‡gi G cY¨wU n‡Z cv‡i GK Abb¨ ms‡hvRb| ejv n‡q _v‡K, cvwbi wb‡P D‡o †eov‡bvi G AwfÁZv ïiæ n‡qwQj GK evev Avi Zvi †Q‡ji nvZ a‡i| Zviv fvmgvb GKUv Kv‡Vi UzK‡ivi m‡½ `wo †eu‡a G †Ljvi cÖPjb K‡ib| cvwbi wb‡P Kivi g‡Zv GKUv m¤ú~Y© bZzb †Ljv GwU hvi m‡½ mvgyw`ªK KvwQ‡gi bRiKvov MøvBwWs `„‡k¨i †ek wgj cvIqv hvq|

†R‡Uvfv‡Uvi

GUv‡K cvwb‡Z Pjv DošÍ evBKI ejv nq| GwU †gvUimvB‡K‡ji Av`‡j A¨vjywgwbqvg w`‡q ˆZwi Ggb GKwU hš¿ hvi m‡½ GKwU 50 dzU j¤^v †nvm cvBc Ry‡o †`Iqv nq| GB †nvm m‡e‡M cvwb †U‡b wb‡q PvjK‡K fvwm‡q iv‡L, D‡V wb‡q †h‡Z cv‡i 30 dzU ch©šÍ D”PZvq| 9,000 Wjvi g~‡j¨i GKwU †R‡Uv‡f‡Uvi Avcbv‡K †QvUv‡Z cvi‡e NÈvq m‡e©v”P 22 gvBj ch©šÍ MwZ‡e‡M| †ivgv AbymÜvbxiv Gi m‡½ Zv‡`i wbR¯^ IqvUvi µvdU Ry‡o w`‡Z cvi‡e hv GB †R‡Uv‡f‡Uv‡ii R¡vjvwbi ms¯’vb Ki‡e|

†RU‡jf

†RU‡jf-d¬vqvi‡K ejv hvq cvwb‡Z Pjv GKwU e¨w³MZ hvb| Gi IRb 30 cvDÛ Ges Gi †cQb †cQb GKwU †QvU †evUI Pj‡Z _v‡K| k~‡b¨ †f‡m _vKvi g‡Zv cvwbi †hvMvb †`q IB †evU| Gi m‡½ Ry‡o †`Iqv _v‡K 33 dzU j¤^v GKwU cwj‡q÷vi I ivev‡ii ˆZwi †nvm| Gi Aci cÖvšÍ jvMv‡bv _v‡K †ev‡U| GUvi gva¨‡g cvwb ï‡l wb‡q c‡i d¬vqviwU 30 dzU D”PZvq NÈvq 25 gvBj †e‡M QzU‡Z

The Jetlev, Flyboard and Jetovator are all visible for miles around when they are in operation

45

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Fast Facts

feet high. The Jetlev-Flyer has a 260hp engine and a foam and fiberglass made backrest and race car style harness to keep the pilot comfortable in the $99,500 water powered jetpack.

Sit-Down Hydrofoil

Subwing involves diving underwater and gripping onto a 4ft carbon-fibre ‘wing’ that is dragged behind a speedboat.

The adrenaline sport was invented by Norwegian teenager Simon Sivertsen.

Experts say controlling the Subwing is easy to and comes naturally to many first- timers.

May - june 2015

Here the rider is strapped to a hydro board via a seatbelt, they then hold onto the rope and sit waiting for the boat to steam ahead and pull them; however underneath the water there is a hydro-foil wing that sits waiting.

When the boat gets up to speed the skier is lifted above the water, as is the board and the hydrofoil wing basically keeps them there. It sounds crazy but it’s amazingly good fun. To be able to ride the hydrofoil properly you must have your centre of gravity aligned with the centre of the board, even minor movements can cause the board to maneuver uncontrollably. This is definitely a sport for those who like fast paced action and like a challenge.

cv‡i| 260 nm©cvIqv‡ii BwÄb _v‡K †RU‡jfd¬vqv‡i| †cQbUv‡K AuvK‡o aivi Rb¨ _v‡K †dvb I dvBeviMøv‡mi ˆZwi e¨vK‡i÷| Avi _v‡K †i‡mi Mvwoi g‡Zv †`L‡Z nv‡b©m| 99,500 Wjvi g~‡j¨i †RUc¨v‡Ki †fZ‡i _vKv cvBjU‡K myweavRbKfv‡e a‡i ivLvi KvR K‡i IUv|

wmU-WvDb nvB‡Wªv d‡qj

G‡Z GKwU nvB‡Wªv †ev‡W©i m‡½ ivBWvi wb‡R‡K GKwU wmU‡e‡ëi gva¨‡g †eu‡a †bq| Gici `wo AuvK‡o a‡i A‡cÿvq _v‡K, KLb †evUwU Pj‡Z ïiæ Ki‡e Ges Zv‡`i mvg‡bi w`‡K †U‡b wb‡q hv‡e| R‡ji Zjvq _v‡K nvB‡Wªv-d‡qj cvLv, A‡cÿvq _v‡K IUvI| †evU hLb Kvw•ÿZ MwZ‡Z †cuŠ‡Q hvq ZLbB ivBWvi †f‡m I‡V cvwbi Dci| †evW© I nvB‡Wªv d‡qj cvLv Zv‡`i IB ch©v‡q a‡i iv‡L| AvcvZZ ïb‡Z cvMjvgxi g‡Zv †kvbv‡jI GUv wKš‘ `viæY gRvi GKUv †Ljv| nvB‡Wªv d‡q‡j wVKVvK g‡Zv Po‡Z n‡j Avcbv‡K †evW©wUi wVK gvS eivei Avcbvi fi‡K‡›`ªi fvimvg¨ eRvq ivL‡Z n‡e| GK Pzj Gw`K †mw`K n‡jB wKš‘ †ev‡W©i bovPov wbqš¿‡Yi evB‡i P‡j hv‡e| hviv cÖPÊ MwZi A¨vKkb I P¨v‡jÄ wb‡Z fvjev‡mb wbtm‡›`‡n GB †Ljv Zv‡`i Rb¨B|

people

The Jetlev Flyer was shown for the first time at the globally important Boot Dusseldorf boat show in 2009 Flowboarding

Flowboarding allows participants to surf using a ski-board on a static piece of equipment. In other words you are surfing in a machine which creates a fast enough velocity of flow between your board and the water. This is great fun because you don’t have to go to a sea or wait for the perfect surf conditions. However, first timers need to be careful or they may hurt themselves.

†d¬v‡evwW©s

w¯Œ †ev‡W©i `uvwo‡q GKwU w¯’i KvVv‡gvi g‡a¨ mvd© Kivi my‡hvM K‡i †`q †d¬v‡evwW©s| Ab¨fv‡e ej‡Z †M‡j GwU n‡jv mvd© Kivi Ggb GKwU hvwš¿K KvVv‡gv †hLv‡b †evW© eivei mvd© Kivi g‡Zv h‡_ó kw³m¤úbœ R‡ji cÖevn †`Iqv nq| GUv †ek gRvi †Kbbv, GUv Kivi Rb¨ Avcbv‡K mgy‡`ª †h‡Z n‡e bv wKsev mvd© Kivi g‡Zv cvi‡d± AvenvIqvi R‡b¨I e‡m _vK‡Z n‡e bv| Z‡e cÖ_g hviv G KvRwU Ki‡Z hv‡”Qb Zv‡`i Aek¨B mZK© _vK‡Z n‡e, b‡Pr AvnZ nIqvi SzuwK Av‡Q †Xi|

47

Keep in Mind

Dress smartly

keep a dry bag

be aware

While taking part in any water sports, dress in quick-dry fabrics. Have an extra layer handy, such as a light fleece jacket.

Buy a dry bag -- a real one, not a ziplock food bag -- and keep a towel and a change of clothes in it. Old sweats are perfect for this purpose.

Re-check weather forecast before leaving home. Check the marine forecast as well and dress for the temperature of the water, not the air.

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The sacred fast Muslims celebrate the month of Ramadan not only as a religious festival, but also as a social occasion By: Ghulam Rasool Dehlvi

48

cweÎ mshg

gymjgvbiv igRvb gvmUv‡K †Kej GKwU ag©xq Drme wn‡m‡eB cvjb K‡i bv, GwU GKwU mvgvwRK DcjÿI May - june 2015

49

With

Ramadan around the corner, Muslims the world over prepare for the sacred Islamic festival of a monthlong daily fasts. The welcoming words of “Ramadan Mubarak” bring feelings of both joy and caution. On one hand, they are eager to rejoice God’s grace, infinite mercy and blessings throughout the month and on the other, they are meticulously careful and cautious while observing the fasts.

The observance of fasting during Ramadan is aimed to provide Muslims with an abundant opportunity to spiritually prepare and mentally gear up to live a God-conscious life.

First and foremost is the mental preparation and spiritual readiness for Ramadan. This is only achieved

igRvb

`iRvq Kov bvo‡Z ïiæ K‡i‡Q, gvme¨vcx cÖwZw`b cvbvnvi †_‡K weiZ _vKvi G cweÎ BmjvwgK Drme cvj‡b cÖ¯‘Z n‡”Q mviv we‡k¦i gymjgvbiv| ÔigRvb gyevivKÕ GB ¯^vMZ kã `y‡Uv GKBm‡½ Avb›` I mZK©Zvi Abyf~wZ wb‡q Av‡m| GK w`‡K GB gv‡m Zviv m„wóKZ©vi AbyMÖn, Amxg ÿgv I Avwke©v` †c‡Z AvMÖnx nq, Aciw`‡K, hLb Zviv cvbvnvi †_‡K wb‡R‡`i weiZ iv‡L ZLb wbLuyZfv‡e mZK© I mveavb n‡q hvq| igRv‡bi GB msh‡gi ixwZi jÿ¨ n‡jv gymjgvb‡`i GK Acwimxg my‡hvM G‡b †`Iqv, hv‡Z Zviv m„wóKZ©vi †`Lv‡bv c‡_ Pj‡Z Ava¨vwZ¥Kfv‡e wb‡R‡`i cÖ¯‘Z K‡i wb‡Z cv‡i Ges gvbwmKfv‡e m‡ZR n‡q DV‡Z cv‡i| cÖ_g I me‡P‡q ¸iæZ¡c~Y© welq n‡jv gvbwmK cÖ¯‘wZ Ges igRv‡bi Rb¨ Ava¨vwZ¥Kfv‡e ˆZwi nIqv| Avi GgbUv AR©b Kiv m¤¢e n‡e ZLbB hLb GB mshg

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by exploring the multi-faceted objective of fasting as enunciated in the Qur’anic injunction: 'O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may become righteous." (2:183)

mva‡bi eûgvwÎK D‡Ïk¨¸‡jv m¤ú‡K© Rvbv m¤¢e n‡e| †hgbUv ejv n‡q‡Q cweÎ †Kviv‡b: '†n wek¦vmxMY! †ivRv ‡Zvgv‡`i Rb¨ wbw`©ó Kiv n‡q‡Q, †hgb †Zvgv‡`i c~e©eZ©x‡`i Rb¨I Kiv n‡qwQj, hv‡Z †Zvgiv b¨v‡qi c‡_ Av‡mv|" (2:184)

Thus, the ultimate purpose of Ramadan is attaining righteousness and God-consciousness (Taqwa).

Merely abstaining from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset is not the complete essence of Ramadan. It is rather a time for inner Ramadan is a time reflection, devotion for inner reflection, to God, self-control devotion to God, and self-training self-control and to be a better human to be a better and more humane person.

However, Muslims are required to carry on with this pursuit throughout the year, not only during the sacred month of Ramadan.

G‡Z K‡i †evSv hvq, igRv‡bi P‚ovšÍ jÿ¨ n‡jv AvZ¥ïw× AR©b I m„wóKZ©v‡K Dcjwä Kiv (ZvKIqv)| †Kej gvÎ m~‡h©v`q †_‡K m~h©v¯Í ch©šÍ Lvevi I cvbxq MÖnY bv KivUvB igRv‡bi mviK_v bq| GB mgqUv n‡jv g~jZ wb‡Ri †fZ‡ii cÖwZdjbUv‡K †`Lv, m„wóKZ©vi cÖwZ cy‡ivcywi mu‡c †`Iqv, AviI †ewk gvbweK I DbœZ nIqvi AvZ¥wbqš¿Y I AvZ¥-cÖwkÿY| e¯‘Z, gymjgvb‡`i‡K GB mvabvwU mviv eQiB †g‡b Pj‡Z nq, ïay gvÎ cweÎ igRvb gv‡mB bq|

The paramount importance of Ramadan is that it is the Islamic month in which the holy Qur’an was sent down to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It was revealed as a divine message from the Almighty God to all mankind. Therefore, one billion Muslims all over the world, who believe in the divinity of the Qur’an, share great joy and gusto celebrating this occasion.

Ramadan is a month in which over one billion Muslims all over the world share great joy and gusto every year. They celebrate it because it 'is the (month) in which the Qur’an was sent down," – a message from the beloved God to each and every Muslim.

Did you know?

May - june 2015

igRvb gv‡mi me‡P‡q eo Zvrch©Uv n‡jv Bmjvwg cwÄKvi G gvmwU‡ZB gnvbex nhiZ gynv¤§` (m.) Gi Ici cweÎ ‡Kvivb AeZxY© nq| gnvb m„wóKZ©vi cÿ †_‡K gvbeRvwZi Rb¨ GKwU ¯^M©xq evZ©vi evnK wn‡m‡eB GwU Av‡m| Avi ZvB mviv wek¦e¨vcx Qwo‡q _vKv GKk †KvwU gymjgvb, hviv †KviAv‡bi Hk¦wiK ¸iæ‡Z¡ wek¦vm K‡i; Zviv GB Dcj‡ÿ G‡K A‡b¨i m‡½ wewbgq K‡i Avb‡›`i Avi cvjb K‡i GK Z…wßgq D`hvcb| igRvb Ggb GK gvm cÖwZ eQiB †h gvmwU‡Z mviv we‡k¦i †KvwU †KvwU gymjgvb Avb›` Avi Z…wß fvM ev‡Uvqviv K‡i †bq| Zviv GUv D`hvcb K‡i, †Kbbv, 'GwU n‡jv Ggb GK gvm †h gv‡m KziAvb AeZxY© n‡qwQj" -- gnvbyfe m„wóKZ©v †_‡K Avmv cÖwZwU gymjgv‡bi Rb¨ hv GKwU evZ©v| GUv D‡jøL Kiv hvq †h gymjgvbiv igRvb ïay ag©xq Drme wn‡m‡eB cvjb

THE BEGINNING

CHARITY IS MUST

BIG CHANGES

Ramadan is celebrated as the month when the first verses of the Quran were said to be revealed to the prophet Muhammad in 610 CE.

While most non-Muslims know that Ramadan is a month for fasting, charity is also an important part of the month-long prayer.

Ramadan has a drastic impact on daily life in Muslim-majority countries. Egypt pushes the clocks back an hour during the holy month.

Food plays a big role

Integral dishes of Ramadan

Light Milk, water and dates Muslims traditionally break their fast by having any of these foods, in adherence to the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed.

51

Significantly enough, Muslims celebrate the month of Ramadan not only as a religious festival, but also as a social occasion. In Bangladesh and all across the world, it is a tradition during Ramadan that people invite one another as well as friends from other faith traditions to break the fast together by sharing their food and thus communicating around the table of interfaith friendship and dialogue. The Iftar feasts are held consecutively on every marked day of Ramadan, particularly on every Friday.

Thus, this religious month is a deeply cultural and communitarian experience too. Ramadan is also a beautiful countdown to Eid-ul-Fitr.

By the arrival of Eid-ul-Fitr, Ramadan winds down leaving the eyes gazed to its return till next year. In fact, the end of Ramadan leaves emptiness behind. For weeks, Muslims continue to miss the early morning Sehri and the evening Iftaar. They miss sitting together with the whole family at the same time every day and meeting friends at Taravih prayer every night.

Meal Rice-based dishes

K‡i bv, mvgvwRK GKUv Dcjÿ wn‡m‡eI cvjb K‡i| evsjv‡`‡ki HwZn¨ n‡jv, igRv‡bi mgq mevB G‡K Aci‡K `vIqvZ w`‡q _v‡K| GgbwK Ab¨ a‡g©i eÜz‡`iI wbgš¿Y †`q Zv‡`i m‡½ GK‡Î †ivRv fvOvi Rb¨| G mgq Zviv Lvevi fvMvfvwM K‡i, †Uwe‡j wN‡i e‡m _vKv Ab¨ a‡g©i eÜz‡`i m‡½I gZwewbgq K‡i Ges Avjvc Pvwj‡q hvq| igRv‡bi we‡kl wKQz wKQz w`‡b AbywôZ nq BdZvi gvnwdj| we‡kl K‡i ïµevi¸‡jv‡Z| Avi ZvB ag©xq Ave‡n †gvov G gvmwU mvs¯‹…wZK I cvi¯úwiK †hvMv‡hv‡Mi GK Mfxi AwfÁZvI G‡b †`q| C`yj wdZ‡ii GK Avb›`Nb KvD›UWvDbI nq igRv‡b| C`yj wdZi Avmv gvÎB igRvb P‡j hvq, Ges evwn¨Kfv‡e wd‡i Av‡m †PvL-gy‡Li J¾¡j¨, hv _v‡K cieZ©x eQ‡ii igRvb ch©šÍ| Z‡e e¯‘Z igRvb Avgv‡`i †cQ‡b †d‡j hvq GKMv`v k~b¨Zv| KviY, cieZ©x mßvnRy‡o gymjgvbiv †fvi iv‡Zi †mnwi Avi mܨvi BdZvi‡K Lye wgm Ki‡Z _v‡K| cÖwZw`b GKB mg‡q cwiev‡ii mevi m‡½ e‡m BdZvi Kiv I eÜz‡`i m‡½ GK‡Î Zvivweni mvjvZ Av`vq KivUvI Zviv Lye wgm K‡i|

Biryani, Mansaf and Kabsas make up an integral part of Ramadan meals in several Muslim countries in Asia

Fresh Salads and beans Green salads include Fattoush and Tabbouleh.

Bean dishes such as Hummus (chickpeas) and Foul (broad beans) are also common.

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May - june 2015

Bargain eateries in

London

From Middle-Eastern eats in north London to Asian-inspired cafés down south, we showcase the best bargain restaurants in London By: A b hi ra j C ha k ra b o r t y

jÛ‡b

ev‡R‡U Lvbvwcbv

ga¨cÖvP¨ Nivbvi Lvevi †_‡K ïiæ K‡i Gwkqv auv‡Pi Kv‡d; DËi jÛ‡bi `wÿ‡Y _vKv Kg`vwg †i¯Íiuv¸‡jv‡K Zz‡j aiv hvK Gevi

London

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has always been a foodies paradise. And being a food lover, one of my favourite things while in London is to explore all the gourmet food markets. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a bounty to eat at many places in London. While these places may be cheaper than others, the quality of food they serve is awesome. So if you are strolling around in the streets of London, here’s my guide to some bargain eateries, which will keep you visiting these places again and again.

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Borough Market

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Located in Southwark, Central London, this is one of the largest and oldest food markets here. Also a major tourist destination, Borough Market is one of London’s best places to have lunch for little over £5 at one of its over 40 food stalls.

The main highlights of this market

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54 (Clockwise from top) Borough Market is one of the largest and oldest food markets; if you love Chinese food, Baozi Inn is the place to be; Mario’s Cafe has been incredibly popular and community-minded daytime spot

Fast Facts

For chilli-hot Sichuan street food dishes, Baozi Inn is the place to go.

There are a lot of options for vegetarians in Delhi Grill — samosa chat, chana, bhindi, etc.

Borough Market is one of London’s best places to have lunch for little over £5 at one of its over 40 food stalls.

May - june 2015

include the Brindisa stall with its superb Spanish selection, Horn OK Please for Indian street food and enticing sandwiches from Gourmet Goat.

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Mario’s Café

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Set in one of Kentish Town’s prettiest streets, Mario’s Cafe has been an incredibly popular and community-minded daytime spot for decades. The emphasis on community means that prices are lower than much of the competition; a full breakfast for under a fiver is not so easy to find as Kentish Town moves upmarket. However, there is no compromise on quality. You’ll find standard caff stuff — eggs, grills, sandwiches, jacket potatoes — but what sets this place apart is the Italian cooking by Mario’s mum.

Baozi Inn

For chilli-hot Sichuan street food dishes, this communist-kitsch Chinatown café is the place to go – and the queues outside attest to it.

Most dishes here have moderate heat levels, but some are genuinely tongue-numbing.

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55 Acceptably fiery delights include spicy dan dan noodles, deceptively hot cucumber salad and savoury crescent dumplings.

Delhi Grill

Focusing on a concise list of home-style Punjabi dishes, this joint brings budget priced street food to Chapel Market. It is an upbeat place for sampling the likes of tilapia with coriander and coconut milk, or hearty slowcooked rogan josh. There are a lot of options for vegetarians too — samosa chat, chana, bhindi and tarka dal are the most in demand. Insistent bangla beats and unyielding seats make the venue more of a healthy, spicy pit-stop than somewhere to linger.

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(Clockwise from top) Borough Market has over 40 stalls serving food of various tastes; Baozi Inn restaurant; food stalls in Borough Market; dan dan noudles in Baozi Inn is a crowd puller

May - june 2015

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Korean Bibimbap This bright and youthful Korean café offers 10 confident versions of its namesake, plus plenty of supporting acts and national beers and spirits

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The grilled lamb at Bayrouths is choosen by a lot of people

All-veggie Ethos is a self-serve buffet where you pay by the weight Beyrouths

The food of Beirut is the kitchen’s forte. Friendly, efficient staff dish out a roll-call of crowd-pleasers: from well-made houmous (garnished with virgin olive oil and fresh pomegranate seeds) to juicy pieces of grilled lamb and deliciously smokey baba ganoush. Vegetarian stews, such as okra served with vermicelli rice and garlic yoghurt, are also worth a punt — especially given the decent portion sizes.

Ethos

A short walk from Oxford Circus, all-veggie Ethos is a self-serve buffet where you pay by weight (of course not yourself, but of the food). At lunch £2.50 buys 100g of nourishment (£2.70 per 100g at dinner).

The daily offerings might include dishes inspired by Japan, South-east Asia, Italy, Korea, India, Mexico and Lebanon, plus the kitchen’s own creations.

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German

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Herman ze German This is London’s number-one purveyor of German sausages, manufactured for the firm in the Black Forest.

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Lebanese Te Amo There maybe many restaurants that sell kebabs, but Te Amo is at the top because of the exceptional care taken with the basics.

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Beating Earth With French Open round the corner, we felt this is the best time for us to unveil a few of the important factors of the world’s only Grand Slam that is played on a clay court. Here’s a look at what you need to know about the tennis tournament By: Abhishek Chakraborty

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Current Season May 19-June 7 – The French Open will take place at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris, France. It is one of four Grand Slam tennis tournaments played across the world and is the only Grand Slam to be played on a clay court.

With the 2015 French Open poster, Du Zhenjun has become the first Chinese artist to create a work of art for the tournament. His inspiration was drawn both from his Asian roots and from contemporary Western art.

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2014 facts Rafael Nadal of Spain won his ninth title and Maria Sharapova of Russia won her second title.

The prize money for the Men’s and Women’s Singles in this edition was €92,12,000, a 15.38% increase since its previous edition.

Other Facts Rafael Nadal holds the record for the most men’s singles wins with nine.

Chris Evert-Lloyd has the most women’s singles wins with seven.

1891 — The first French tournament, the International Championship of Tennis, is held and is limited to members of French clubs.

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1940-1945 — The tournament is cancelled due to World War II.

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1989 — Michael Chang becomes the youngest man ever to win the singles title at 17 years and three months of age.

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1928 — The tournament moves to a new stadium. The stadium and tournament are named after Roland Garros, and is still widely known by that name. Garros is an aviator who made the first successful crossing of the Mediterranean in 1913.

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Timeline

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2012 — Rafael Nadal beats Novak Djokovic to win his 7th French Open title, setting a new record.

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1925 — The tournament is opened to international competitors from non-French clubs. Women’s doubles is also added.

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1968 — The Roland Garros is the first Grand Slam to become an open tournament.

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1990 — Monica Seles becomes the youngest woman ever to win the singles title at 16 years and six months of age.

1990 — 16 eQi 6 gvm eq‡m we‡k¦i me‡P‡q Kg eqmx bvix wn‡m‡e wk‡ivcv †R‡Zb gwbKv †m‡jm|

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Tea time Bangladesh tea is exported to Russia, Pakistan and much of the Middle East By: Anthony Dalton

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May - june 2015

To

those who love the beverage, tea time is anytime. No doubt the fictional, decidedly weird but strangely lovable Hatter from Alice in Wonderland would have disagreed, or perhaps he would have as always at six o’clock and always would be. In the Hatter’s fantastic world, tea was always served at six o’clock because it was always six o’clock.

63 (left) Most of the tea pluckers are females; An estate manager checks his valuable crop

The Chinese were drinking tea thousands of years ago. They didn’t have any special time to sit and sample the bitter leaf. They had tea whenever they felt like it. The British, long considered the experts when the conversation turns to tea, didn’t even know the leaf existed until a wandering Scotsman discovered it growing wild in the hills of

Most tea plantations here are situated in the northeastern areas India’s Assam province in 1820. Having arrived on the scene late, the British worked hard to catch up. Within a few years tea estates had spread far and wide in the northeast of India. By the end of the 19th century there were more than 100 productive estates in what is now northern Bangladesh — all British, although almost all are now owned by Bangladeshi companies.

Sylhet and Srimongal, two towns in northern Bangladesh, are the closest large settlements to the estates: neither are more than a few minutes

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Fast facts

First commercial cultivation of tea started in Bangladesh at Sylhet in 1854.

Srimongal is about 70 km south of Sylhet. It is ‘the capital of tea’.

Srimongal has over 150 tea gardens, including three of the largest tea in the world -- both in area and production.

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(clockwise from top) Machines do the work of many people; Tea production in Srimongal; The Bangladeshi Tea Research Institute is in Srimongal; Workers building sunshades to protect tea shrubs from the sun

from tea. Also, Srimongal is home to the noted Bangladesh Tea Research Institute.

Evergreen plant

Tea, the drink that calms and soothes, comes from an evergreen plant. Its Latin name is Camellia Sinensis. Tea plants are grown for four years before they can be plucked. Despite being dormant between December and March, the plants never lose their leaves. Careful pruning ensures the plants are not allowed to grow much more than waist high, although, if left untended, they could grow as high as 10 metres. Kept to waist height, the plants grow sideways and make it easier for the leaves to be plucked. Note: tea is never picked — only plucked.

Tea pluckers, mostly women, take only the youngest and healthiest leaves. Their hands select the leaves with such speed

May - june 2015

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At the end of a long day each plucker’s load is weighed and the worker paid according to her productivity

that they are blurred with motion. At the end of a long day each plucker’s load is weighed and the worker paid according to her productivity. That’s the first stage in the process of creating tea for consumption. There are six more important stages to pass through before the tea is ready for packaging and sale.

Withering is first. That’s the process of drying by hot air. Rolling follows. It frees the juices before the leaves go through sieves to be sized en route to the fermentation floor, where the juices are oxidised.

The leaves are then dried on grills in large ovens.

Finally, all the tea has to be graded. All stages in the production of tea can be seen in action at the institute in Srimongal.

Worldwide reach

Bangladesh tea is exported to Russia, Pakistan and much of the Middle East. No matter where it ends up, the way it is prepared for drinking depends on the consumers. Some like it strong, milky and sweet.

Others prefer it clear, disdaining the additions of milk and sugar. There is no evidence of how the Hatter liked his tea. Certainly, stuffing a dormouse into the teapot — as Hatter and the March Hare did at the outdoor party — is not recommended.

It would ruin the taste of a fine, traditional soothing drink.

Tea should be admired for its aroma, its flavour and its taste: and, with respect to the Hatter, six o’clock is a fine time to drink it — as is any other time of day or night.

Some like it strong, milky and sweet. Others prefer it clear, disdaining the additions of milk and sugar Pv msMÖnKvix‡`i †ewkifvMB bvix| Zviv Pv Mv‡Qi me‡P‡q KwP I ¯^v¯’¨evb cvZv¸‡jv‡KB †e‡Q †bq| Zviv GZ `ªæZ cvZv wQo‡Z cv‡i †h MwZi Kvi‡Y Zv‡`i nvZ A¯úó n‡q Av‡m| mviv w`‡bi †k‡l cÖ‡Z¨K cvZv msMÖnKvixi cvZv IRb Kiv nq, Ges †mB Abyhvqx Zv‡K gRywi cwi‡kva Kiv nq| Pv ˆZwii Rb¨ GUvB‡K ejv hvq cÖ_g avc| Gici c¨v‡KwRs K‡i wewµi AvM ch©šÍ AviI QqwU ¸iæZ¡c~Y© avc cvi n‡Z nq Pv cvZv‡K| cÖ_‡gB cvZv¸‡jv‡K LmL‡m K‡i †bIqvi cvjv| Mig evZv‡mi mvnv‡h¨ ïKv‡bvi G cÖwµqvwU m¤úbœ nq| wbw`©ó AvKv‡i Pvjwbi †fZi c‡o dv‡g©‡›Ukb †d¬v‡i hvIqvi Av‡M cvZv †_‡K imUv‡K Avjv`v Kiv nq G av‡c| Gici GKwU eo I‡f‡bi wMÖ‡j †i‡L cvZv¸‡jv‡K AviI ïKv‡bv nq| G mgq imUv Aw·WvBRW n‡q hvq| Gici me ai‡bi Pv‡qi †MÖW Kiv nq| Pv evbv‡bvi me¸‡jv avc †`Lv hv‡e kÖxg½‡ji Pv BÝw÷wUD‡U|

†cuŠ‡Q hvq †MvUv `ywbqvq

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May - june 2015

Revival of

indigo

A farmer’s revolution and the beginning of modern theatre in India all owe their origins to a simple dye, which is being revived once again

bx‡ji

By: Reema Islam

cybR©vMiY

GKRb K…l‡Ki wecøe Ges fvi‡Z AvaywbK w_‡qUv‡ii hvÎv; Gme wKQzB GKwU gvÎ mvaviY WvB-Gi cÖwZ K…ZÁ| hv wKbv GLb Avevi †R‡M D‡V‡Q

Gone

are the days when farmers showed reluctance to sow a single seedling of indigo plant and faced tyranny from the British rulers.

Cultivation of indigo has now turned into a blessing, a way to change socio-economic condition of hundreds of farmers in various villages across Bangladesh. Farmers of Rajendrapur under Rangpur Sadar upazila are cultivating indigo and producing dye from it, which they call ÔTrue Bengal Natural Indigo DyeÕ.

Dark past

There was a time when indigo farming was no more considered a blessing across Bangladesh as farmers were reluctant in sowing the seeds of the plant. Excavations at the ruins of the Indus Valley Civilisation

†mme

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AÜKvi AZxZ

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(3300-1300 Before Current Era) unearthed seeds of the Indigofera plant, while remnants of blue dyed cloth, which still looked vibrant after all these years were also discovered in sites of Ancient Egypt.

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However, the indigofera tinctoria (a species of plant from the bean family that was one of the original sources of indigo dye), which is found in Bangladesh, is supposed to be one of the best known kinds.

Also known as Bengal Indigo or True Indigo, it was one of the East India Company’s biggest export items of the 19th century. Although the export was tainted with blood of the Bengal farmers, which lead to the Indigo Revolt or Neel Bidroho. Forbidden to grow food crops, the farmers were forced to produce indigo on massive scales. And they were given a very nominal fee of the original price of indigo, leading to a hand to mouth existence.

Caught in this quagmire of low income and returns, the farmers revolted in 1859 and the Neel Kuthis or indigo factories were burned. But a severe crop failure, coupled with the revolts and the discovery of synthetic indigo by a German scientist in 1865, lead to the eventual collapse of indigo farming. Dinabandhu Mitra also influenced minds through his play, Nil Darpan or Mirror of Indigo, which was anonymously published from Dhaka in 1860 and translated into English, leading to strong reactions in India as well as Britain.

So as the farmers wiped out all memories of the tainted indigo plantations, the indigofera tinctoria was somehow lost in the fields of North Bangladesh. Thought to be useful for crop rotations only, the locals were calling it maal gaach in areas like Rangpur and Nilphamari.

Back to present

But today, indigo has a re-invented image, thanks to the efforts of

May - june 2015

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Individual efforts are helping bring this dyeing technique back in vogue individuals like Ruby Ghuznavi, the Menonite Central Committee and a project run by CARE Bangladesh, bringing this dyeing technique back in vogue. A group of locals in collaboration with CARE-B have formed a social enterprise called Nijera Cottage and Village Industries (NCVI) in the Rangpur environs. A union of the old and the modern, Japanese nui shibori meets the ancient Bangladeshi needlework techniques to form quilts or khatas using a wave like design or the dheu khata. International experts merge local knowledge into creating works of art that pay homage to this most ancient natural dye. From a bloody revolt to a re-invention of the lost arts, indigo continues to enchant us with its sheer vibrancy.

†i‡LwQj `xbeÜz wg‡Îi Ôbxj `c©YÕ bv‡gi GKwU bvUKI (wgii Ae BbwW‡Mv)| XvKv †_‡K †ebv‡g †h bvUK cÖKvk n‡qwQj 1860 mv‡j Ges Ab~w`Z n‡qwQj Bs‡iwR‡ZI| fviZmn weª‡U‡bI †h Kvwnbx †ek eo mvov †d‡jwQj|

Fast Facts

GK ch©v‡q hLb K…lKiv i³¯œvZ †mB bxj Pv‡li ¯§„wZ gy‡Q w`j, ZLb DËie‡½i Rwg¸‡jv †_‡K †KvbI GK fv‡e nvwi‡q hvq BbwW‡Mv‡div wUsK‡Uvwiqv| km¨P‡µi gv‡SB †Kej GB dmj DcKvix e‡j iscyi I bxjdvgvixi g‡Zv GjvKvi †jvKRb GUv‡K gvj MvQ e‡jI Wv‡K|

eZ©gv‡b wd‡i Avmv

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Indigo planting in Bengal dates back to 1777.

And Louis Bonard was probably the first indigo planter.

In February–March 1859 the farmers refused to sow a single seedling of indigo plant.

The revolt started from Nadia and soon spread to Birbhum, Pabna, Khulna, Narail, etc

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Tarot cards...

†g-Ryb 2015Õi Rb¨ U¨viU fwel¨ØvYx

Tarot predictions for May-June 2015 by Manisha Koushik

70

Aries (‡glivwk)

Taurus (e…livwk)

Gemini (wg_ybivwk)

You can purchase an item you had been waiting for. Keeping fit will be your mantra. Money invested in some lucrative schemes may start giving good returns.

Lucky colour: Indigo; Lucky number: 4

You may take a break from work and attend something personal. Investing in a scheme that seems lucrative is possible. A hectic time is foreseen at work-related travel.

Lucky colour: Light Red; Lucky number: 1

If you get a chance to put in a good word for somebody to someone influential, do so. Money won’t pose much problem, but be conservative in spending. Be careful during workouts.

Lucky colour: Golden Brown; Lucky number: 1

†h wRwbmUvi Rb¨ GZw`b A‡cÿv KiwQ‡jb Gevi †mUv wKb‡Z cvi‡eb| wb‡R‡K wdU ivLvB n‡e Avcbvi gš¿| †jvfbxq wKQz w¯‹‡g Kiv wewb‡qvM fv‡jv gybvdv wb‡q Avm‡Z ïiæ Ki‡e| ïf is: †e¸wb bxj; ïf msL¨v: 4

KvR †_‡K Gevi nq‡Zv GKUzLvwb weiwZ wb‡q e¨w³MZ Kv‡R Rov‡Z cv‡ib| ‡jvfbxq †KvbI w¯‹‡g wewb‡qv‡Mi m¤¢vebv i‡q‡Q| KvR msµvšÍ åg‡Y e¨¯ÍZg mg‡qi Bw½Z †`Lv hv‡”Q| ïf is: nvjKv jvj; ïf msL¨v: 1

†KvbI cÖfvekvjxi Rb¨ hw` fv‡jv †KvbI kã Pq‡bi my‡hvM cvb, Z‡e †mUv nvZ Qvov Ki‡eb bv| UvKv wb‡q Lye GKUv mgm¨v n‡e bv| Z‡e Li‡Pi w`KUvq iÿYkxjZv eRvq ivLyb| kixiPP©vi mgq mZK©Zv Aej¤^b Kiæb| ïf is: †mvbvjx ev`vwg; ïf msL¨v: 1

Cancer (KK©Uivwk)

Leo (wmsnivwk)

Virgo (Kb¨vivwk)

Be moderate in your habits if you want to remain fit. Getting introduced to a charming member of the opposite gender is likely to keep you in an upbeat mood!

Lucky colour: White; Lucky number: 2

Someone is trying hard to bring you into limelight, so play along! Taking charge of matters going out of hand at work will keep you very much in control. Changes in your lifestyle are foreseen.

Lucky colour: Red; Lucky number: 1

You will pay off your creditors at leisure. Making the right choice of employment will not be too difficult for freshers. A surprise awaits some on the romantic front!

Lucky colour: Yellow; Lucky number: 3

kixiUv‡K †KZv`~i¯Í ivL‡Z Avcbvi Af¨vm¸‡jvi gv‡S jvMvg †U‡b aiæb| wecixZ wj‡½i †KvbI AvKl©Yxq e¨w³i m‡½ mvÿv‡Zi d‡j Avcbvi †fZiUv †ek Pv½v _vK‡e! ïf is: mv`v; ïf msL¨v: 2

Avcbv‡K L¨vwZi QUvq G‡b w`‡Z †KD cÖvYcb †Póv Ki‡Q, †Zv Zvj wgwj‡q Pjyb! Kg©¯‡’ j nvZ dm‡K †ewi‡q †h‡Z PvIqv welq¸‡jvi wb‡Ri KZ…Z © ¡ eRvq ivL‡j wb‡R‡K wbqš¿‡Y ivL‡Z cvi‡eb| jvBd÷vB‡j cwieZ©b jÿ¨Yxq| ïf is: jvj; ïf msL¨v: 1

Aem‡i Avcwb Avcbvi cvIbv`vi‡`i UvKv PzwK‡q †`‡eb| bZzb‡`i Rb¨ PvKwi evQvB‡qi KvRUv Lye GKUv KwVb n‡e bv| †ivgvw›UKZvi m`i `iRvq A‡cÿv Ki‡Q GK we¯§q| ïf is: njy`; ïf msL¨v: 3

May - June 2015

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

libra (Zyjvivwk)

scorpio (e…wðKivwk)

sagittarius (abyivwk)

Someone’s love and care is likely to keep you happy. An expensive gift and a party are on the cards! Those searching for suitable accommodation will get lucky.

Lucky colour: Off White; Lucky number: 7

Your mentor will give you strength and direction. Postpone an important decision at work. Financial stability is foreseen. Wedding bells may soon toll for someone in the family.

Lucky colour: Crimson; Lucky number: 5

A previous investment may give good returns.

Your helpful nature is likely to come in for appreciation. Romantic mood prevails, as you take lover for evening surprises.

Lucky colour: Rosy Brown; Lucky number: 6

‡KvbI GKR‡bi fvjevmv I hZœAvwË Avcbv‡K †ek mywL ivL‡e| GKwU `vwg Dcnvi Avi cvwU©i Dcw¯’wZ †`Lv hv‡”Q Kv‡W©! hviv GKwU gvbvbmB Avevmb LyuRwQ‡jb Zv‡`i fvM¨ mycÖmbœ| ïf is: nvjKv a~mi; ïf msL¨v: 7

Avcbvi civgk©`vZvi KvQ †_‡K kw³gËv I wb‡`©kbv cv‡eb| Kv‡R †KvbI ¸iæZ¡cY~ © wm×všÍ †bIqvi _vK‡j Zv AvcvZZ ¯’wMZ Kiæb| Avw_©K w¯’wZkxjZvi j²Y †`Lv hv‡”Q| cwiev‡i Kv‡ivi we‡qi NÈv †e‡R DV‡Z cv‡i| ïf is: Mvp jvj; ïf msL¨v: 5

Av‡Mi †KvbI GKwU wewb‡qvM †_‡K fv‡jv gybvdv Avm‡e| Avcbvi mn‡hvwMZvc~Y© g‡bvfv‡ei Kvi‡Y cÖkswmZ n‡Z cv‡ib| wcÖqRb‡K wb‡q mvܨKvjxb †KvbI mvicÖvB‡Ri d‡j †ivgvw›UK gyW AÿZ _vK‡e| ïf is: †Mvjvcx ev`vgx; ïf msL¨v: 6

Capricorn (gKiivwk)

Aquarius (Ky¤i ¢ vwk)

Pisces (gxbivwk)

A watchful eye on business partner or rival at work is needed. Playing one against the other can get you short-term gains, but won’t be favourable in the long run.

Lucky colour: Saffron; Lucky number: 9

Those in tours and travel business must focus on building relationship. A game of oneupmanship at work may harm you. Homemakers can exceed the budget in doing up their homes.

Lucky colour: Forest Green; Lucky number: 17

Your style of functioning will make you muchsought-after. Someone is likely to share your enthusiasm for organising something on the social front. Wealth may come through inheritance.

Lucky colour: Royal Blue; Lucky number: 22

e¨emvqxK Aswk`vi wKsev Kg©‡ÿ‡Î kÎæi MwZwewa bR‡i ivLyb| GKR‡bi weiæ‡× Av‡iKRb‡K Kvbcov w`‡q nq‡Zv mvgwqK jvfevb n‡eb, Z‡e `xN©‡gqv‡` G‡Z †KvbI jvf n‡e bv| ïf is: Rvdivb; ïf msL¨v: 9

hviv ch©Ub I åg‡Yi e¨emvq RwoZ Zv‡`i GLb m¤úK© ˆZwi‡Z gb‡hvMx nIqv DwPZ| Kg©‡ÿ‡Î KvD‡K †U°v †`Iqvi †Ljvq Avcbvi ÿwZB n‡Z cv‡i| N‡ii KZ©viv N‡ii Kv‡R ivLv ev‡RU Qvwo‡q †h‡Z cv‡ib| ïf is: R½j meyR; ïf msL¨v: 17

Avcbvi KvR Kivi ai‡Yi d‡j Avcwb n‡q DV‡eb ga¨gwY| mvgvwRK A½‡b GKUv wKQz msMwVZ Ki‡Z Avcbvi D`¨g †`‡L Ab¨ †KD AbycÖvwYZ n‡Z cv‡i| DËivwaKvi m~‡Î m¤úwËi gvwjK n‡Z cv‡ib| ïf is: Mvp bxj; ïf msL¨v: 22

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ÔI love travelling to

US, Australia’

Amay deko na, kobita porar prohor eseche, Amar buker moddhekhane – the ever-lasting romantic songs reminds us of the songbird Samina Chowdhury.

Here she talks about her life travelling to various countries By: Ma hbu b Ha s a n Joty

Avgvq †W‡Kv bv, KweZv covi cÖni G‡m‡Q, Avgvi ey‡Ki g‡a¨Lv‡b -- Ggb AmsL¨ fv‡jvevmvi Mv‡bi K_v fve‡jB ‡h wgwó MjvUv Kv‡b ev‡R, ‡mUv Avi Kv‡ivi bq, mvwgbv ‡PŠayixi| wen‡½i m‡½ AvjvcPvwiZvq †ewi‡q G‡jv wKQy Mí

hy³iv‡ó«, A‡÷ªwjqv‡Z Nyi‡Z cQ›` Kwi How many countries have you travelled so far?

About 15-16 countries, which includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Canada, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, India etc.

G ch©š— KZ ‡`k ågY K‡i‡Qb? A‡bK¸‡jv ‡`k Ny‡iwQ| 15-16wUi g‡Zv n‡e| ZvwjKvq Av‡Q hy³ivó«, Bsj¨vÛ, A‡÷«wjqv, Rvcvb, KvbvWv, gvj‡qwkqv, _vBj¨vÛ, `yevB, fviZmn AviI A‡bK ‡`k|

Were all of those private tours?

No. Most of them were related to some music and cultural performance.

me¸‡jv mdi wK e¨w³MZ wQj? bv| †ewkifvMB Mvb Ges mvs¯‹w… ZK `‡ji n‡q Nyi‡Z wM‡qwQ|

Any Eid without your family?

No. Most of my tours were after Eid. But yes, some years back, I had to celebrate the Qurbani Eid in India as I had to perform with Indian singer Asha Bhosle. Except that, I was with my family in every occasion.

When was your first international tour?

Travelling abroad started with England. It must be 1985 when I just moved college after finishing my SSC exam.

The chance was created by a cultural team at that moment.

Abida Sultana, dancer Shamim Ara Nipa and many other prominent artists also toured with me. I stayed for about a month there in the UK. Any funny moment while abroad that you would like to share?

There are lots. But I will always remember the England tour.

A foreign citizen got a crush on me. Loads of gags and jokes happened around that incident.

†KvbI C` wK cwievi Qvov Ki‡Z n‡qwQj? bv| †ewkifvMB n‡q‡Q C‡`i ci| Z‡e n¨vu, eQi K‡qK Av‡M ‡Kvievwbi C`Uv fvi‡Z Ki‡Z n‡qwQj| KviY cÖL¨vZ msMxZwkíx Avkv ‡fvum‡ji m‡½ Avgvi GKUv KvR c‡owQj IB mgq| GB GKUv Drme Qvov me C` cwievi wb‡qB K‡iwQ| cÖ_g ‡Kvb ‡`‡k wM‡qwQ‡jb? we‡`k mdiUv Bsj¨vÛ w`‡q ïi“| m¤¢eZ mgqUv 1985 mvj n‡e| m‡e GmGmwm cvk K‡i K‡j‡R fwZ© n‡qwQ| ‡m mgq GKUv mvs¯‹…wZK `‡ji m‡½ IB ‡`‡k hvevi my‡hvM Av‡m| `‡j Avwe`v myjZvbv, b…Z¨wkíx kvgxg Aviv wbcvmn AviI A‡b‡K wQ‡jb| cÖ_g åg‡Y cÖvq gvmLv‡b‡Ki g‡Zv wQjvg| evB‡i Nyi‡Z hvIqv wb‡q gRvi ‡KvbI ¯§…wZ? A‡bK Av‡Q| Z‡e ‡ewk g‡b _vK‡e Bsj¨vÛ ågYUv| KviY, IB mgq GK cÖevmx Avgvi ‡cÖ‡g c‡owQ‡jb| GUv wb‡q ixwZg‡Zv Avgv‡`i g‡a¨ nvwm-ZvgvkvI n‡qwQj| evB‡i ‡M‡j mvaviYZ ‡Kv_vq _v‡Kb? hw` Mv‡bi Kbmv‡U© hvB, Zvn‡j ‡Zv ‡nv‡U‡jB DV‡Z nq| Gi weKí _v‡K

biman-airlines.com

73

74

Where do you love staying when abroad?

If I am travelling with my music team, I stay at hotels.

There is no alternative. But when I am on a private tour, I prefer to stay with relatives and friends.

Tell us about your love for food.

I prefer variety in tastes. But those must be halal.

Love for desi foods has no boundary and IÕm no different. However, I also have a strong appetite for foreign dishes alongside the desi ones. I am always ready to taste local recipes whenever I visit a foreign country.

bv| Z‡e e¨w³MZ md‡i ‡M‡j Kv‡Qi gvbyl ev AvZ¥xq¯^R‡bi evmv‡ZB _vKvi ‡Póv Kwi| Kx ‡L‡Z fv‡jvev‡mb? wewfbœ ¯^v‡`i Lvevi ‡L‡Z `vi“Y cQ›` Kwi| Z‡e ‡m¸‡jv Aek¨B nvjvj Lvevi n‡Z n‡e| ‡`kxq Lvev‡ii cÖwZ meviB Kg-‡ewk fv‡jvjvMv i‡q‡Q| Avgvi ‡¶‡ÎI Gi e¨wZµg bq| Z‡e ‡`wk Lvev‡ii cvkvcvwk we‡`wk LveviI LvB| we‡`‡k ‡M‡jB Avwg ‡mLvbKvi ¯’vbxq Lvevi¸‡jvi ¯^v` ‡bqvi ‡Póv Kwi| ‡`‡ki ‡fZi ‡Kv_vq me‡P‡q ‡ewk Nyi‡Z hvIqv n‡q‡Q? ‡ewk hvIqv n‡q‡Q PÆMÖvg| fvwUqvwi Mjd K¬v‡ei IB w`‡K GKUv RvqMv Av‡Q, IB ¯’vbUv Avgv‡K ‡ewk gy» K‡i‡Q| Gi ci ev›`ievb, LvMovQwo| GQvovI ‡`‡ki eû GjvKv‡ZB A‡bKevi hvIqv n‡q‡Q|

What is your most visited place in Bangladesh?

I have travelled a number of times to Chittagong. There is place near the I have Bhatiary Golf Club. That attracts me a lot. travelled a lot to Then comes Bandarban and Rangamati. evB‡i ‡M‡j Kx ai‡bi mgm¨vq c‡ob?

Chittagong. There is place near the Bhatiary Besides these, I have also visited number ‡mfv‡e ‡KvbI mgm¨vq co‡Z nqwb| Z‡e Golf Club. Then comes of places in Bangladesh.

GUv wVK Avwg wbqggvwdK wKQy KvR Kwi| Bandarban and ‡hgb cÖwZw`b mKv‡j Mig cvwb Avi gay LvB| Rangamati.

Any particular problem you face when we‡`‡ki ‡nv‡U‡j _vKv n‡j GUv cvwi bv| Avi abroad?

Kv‡iv evmvq DV‡j mn‡R Ki‡Z cvwi| Nothing much. But I do follow some discipline. Every morning I drink warm water with honey. If I have to åg‡Y ‡Zv ‡KD ‡KD fyj K‡i A‡bK wKQyB nvwi‡q ‡d‡j... stay in a hotel, I skip that drink. But I get that if I stay cÖPiy nvwi‡qwQ| nq Pkgv, bq‡Zv kvwo-Kvco ‡d‡j Avwm| Avm‡j in a relative’s house. hLb ‡ewk e¨¯—Zv _v‡K, ZLbB fyj¸‡jv nq| We usually forget a lot of items back when we travel. What about you?

Yes, lots of. I usually forget my glasses or saree.

Generally this happens due to my busy schedule.

May - june 2015

†KbvKvUv †Kgb jv‡M? we‡`k †_‡K wK‡Pb mvgMÖx wKsev †kvwcm wKb‡Z ‡Póv Kwi| A‡b‡KB Km‡gwUK AvB‡Ug †ewk ‡K‡b| GB Af¨vm Avgvi ‡bB|

75

Do you enjoy shopping?

I am attracted to kitchen utensils and decorative items. Many of my colleagues buy a lot of cosmetics, but I am not into these.

I love buying kitchen utensils and decorative items, not cosmetics

You have travelled so many countries, which one you prefer most?

I travel a lot to the US and I'm very comfortable there.

I also get a chance to meet a lot of acquaintances there. Australia is also one of my favourites. All things are quite tip-top in these countries.

GZ †`k Ny‡i‡Qb| †KvbwU †ewk fv‡jv ‡j‡M‡Q? hy³iv‡ó« A‡bK ‡ewk hvIqv n‡q‡Q| ‡mLv‡b Pjv‡div K‡iI Kg‡dvU© wdj Kwi| A‡bK †Pbv Rvbv n‡q‡Q †mB †`‡k| GQvov A‡÷«wjqvI Avgvi cQ‡›`i ‡`k| `y‡Uv †`‡k me wKQyB cwicvwU|

Where are you now planning to go?

I am planning to visit Australia with my family.

Besides, I am also planning to perform at Omrah in Saudi Arabia.

mvg‡b ‡Kv_vq hv‡eb? cwievi wb‡q wkMwMiB A‡÷«wjqv‡Z Nyi‡Z hvevi K_v fvewQ| GQvov Igivn cvjb Ki‡Z ‡mŠw` Avi‡eI hvevi cwiKíbv Av‡Q|

biman-airlines.com

Offices Biman Bangladesh Airlines (domestic) Chittagong

Cox’ Bazar

(CGP (GMT +6) 88031, Biman bhaban, 1/2, CDA Avenue, Sholosohar, Chittagong-4203 +88-031-650671 to 75, +88-031-650982 to 84 +88-031- 651890 to 91

(CXB) (GMT +6) (0341), Motel Upal, Parjatan Holyday Complex , Cox’s Bazar

Sylhet

Shah Amanat International Airport, Chitagong

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

+88-031-2500990 to 95, +88-031-2500941 to 50

Airport office Osmani international airport, Sylhet.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines (International) Abu Dhabi

Dammam, Saudi Arabia

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

(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

Abu Dhabi International Airport

76

Delhi, India

Room no. 2250, Abu dhabi, uae +971-02-5757053 Pabx : +971-02-5757500/2673 Fax +971-02-6344664 Mobile : +971-050-6131293 Email: auhkk@bdbiman.com

Delhi (DEL), (GMT+5.30) 320-321 Indra Prakesh Building, Barakhamba Road Cannaught Place, New Delhi-110001 +91-11-41519468 Fax: +91-11-23705481 Mobile: +91- 9811322146 Email deluu@bdbiman.com

Bahrain

Delhi Airport

Bahrain (BAH), (GMT+3) Shop No -08, Building No – 18Delmon International Hotel, Manama Block 315, Road No -357, Kingdom Of Bahrain +973-17212541 Fax: +973-17213426 Mobile: +973-39118140 Email: bahuu@bdbiman.com Akbarua@hotmail.com

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

Bangkok, Thailand Bangkok (BKK), (GMT+7) 163, Ocean Insurance Building 01/17 Floor Unit, 17A, Surawongse Road, Suriyawongse, Bangkok-10500 +66-02-2355556 Fax: +66-(0)22369973 Mobile: +66-(0)898960554 Email: bkkuu@bdbiman.com

Bangkok Airport Room no – Z-2 007, 2nd floor AOB Building, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand. +66-(0)2-1342940 Fax: +66-(0)2-1342944 Mobile: +66-(0)8199243379 Email: bkkkk@bdbiman.com

Benelux, The Netherlands Beechavenue 104, 1119 PP Schiphol, The Netherlands +31-(0)20 - 65 51 176 Fax:+31-(0)20 - 62 30 151 Biman.ams@aviareps.com Brussels Park Hill, J.E. Mommaertslaan 18 B, 3rd floor 1831 Diegem, Brussels, Belgium +31-(0)2 - 71 20 498 Fax:+32-(0)2 - 72 58 392 Biman.bru@aviareps.com

Doha (Qatar) Doha (DOH), (GMT+3), Building No – 35, Souqahmed bin ali 07, Al-tarbiya street, P.O, box – 2738, +974-44413054 Fax: +974-44412000(gsa) Mobile: +974-55529477 Pabx: +974-44413422/117 Residence : +974-44368645 Email dohuu@bdbiman.com

Dubai, UAE Dubai (DXB), (GMT+4) Al Masraf Tower, 16th Floor, Office #1605, Albaniyas Road, P.O. Box No -1515, Deira, Dubai, UAE + 971-4-220942/205 Office: +971-4-2283767 /205 Fax: + 971-4-2278451 Mobile: + 971-50-5539045 Residence: + 971-4-2576185 Email: dxbuu@bdbiman.com

Dubai International Airport, Terminal-1, Departure building, Room# 1017, 1049 & 1050 + 971-4-2162895 Fax: + 971-4-2245420 Mobile: + 971-50-5525936 Email: dxbkk@bdbiman.com

Frankfurt c/o AVIAREPS, Kaiserstrasse 77 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany +49 (0) 69 - 770 673 070 Fax: +49 (0) 69 - 770 673 235 SalesBG.Germany@aviareps.com

Hong Kong

Kuwait

(HKG) (GMT+8) (00852), Room no. 214 & 215, F-2, F East, Houston Centre, 63 Mody Road Tsim, Shatsuikowloon, +852-27248464 Fax: +852-27246284 Mobile: +852-94702724 Email:hkguu@bdbiman.com

Kuwait (KWI), (GMT+3), Al-Homaizi Building, Al Soor Street PO Box - 23837, Safat 13099, + 965-22426846/7 Fax: + 965-22439764, + 965-22428671 Mobile: + 965-99813462 Email: bimankwi@yahoo.com, Kwiuu@bdbiman.com

Airport Office Room-6So13, Lebel 6, South

Kuwait International Airport

Concourse, Pax Terminal- 1, Hong Kong Airport +852-23298036 Fax: +852-23525830 Residence: +852-94702754 Email: hkgkk@bdbiman.com

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Jeddah (JED), (GMT+3) Al-Nakheel Center, Madinah Road P.O Box-13541, Jeddah, KSA +966-2-6652891 Fax: +966-2-6652850 Mobile: +966-501491014 Email: jeduu@bdbiman.com

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia King Abdul Aziz Int’l Airport +966-2-6853194 Fax: +966-2-6853326 Mobile: +966-505319533 Residence: +966-2-6552562 Email: jedkk@bdbiman.com

Kathmandu, Nepal Kathmandu (KTM), (GMT+5.45) House No- 314, Nagpokhari, Nexal, + 977-01-4434869 Fax: + 977-01-4434869 Mobile: + 977-9851037510 Email: ktmuu@bdbiman.com

Kolkata, India

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

Riyadh

Airport Office

Airport Office

Room no.5900D (5th floor), North East Extension, Terminal - 4, Hounslow, Middlesex Hearthrow Airport TW6 3FB + 44-(0) 208 745 7550 Fax: +44 (0) 208 7456390 Mobile: +44 (0) 7949686823 Residence : +44(0) 208 5738127 Email: lhrkk@bdbiman.com

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

Airport Office Lot S10 & S31, Main Terminal Building, KL International Airport Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia. +603-87764770 Fax: +603-87873881 Mobile: +6019-3806643 Email: kulkk@bdbiman.com

Paris 122 Champs Elysées 75008 Paris, France +33 (0) 1 53 43 53 38 Fax:+33 (0) 1 53 43 79 19 Biman.France@aviareps.com

London (LON), (GMT+0.0) 17 Conduit Street,.London W1S 2B + 44-(0)2076290161, 2076290252, + 2074957478, + 2074957480 Fax: +44 (0) 2076290736 Mobile: +44 (0) 7908117126 Residence :+44(0) 208 5982358 Email: lonuu@bdbiman.com, bimanlondon@btconnect.com

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

Nordics (Sweden) Riddargatan 17 114 57 Stockholm, Sweden +46 - 8 - 55 56 91 56 Fax:+46 - 8 - 24 18 88 Biman.Nordics@aviareps.com

London, UK

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

Riyadh (RUH) (GMT+3) (00966) P.O.Box no. 21076, Riyadh-11475.K.S.A +966-1-4623537, +966-1-4623376 Fax: +966-4623501 Mobile: +966-504246352 Email:ruhuu@bdbiman.com

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 777-300ER (35J+384Y = 419 PAX) Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

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

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit(02nos.)

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit(02nos.)

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

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Rows 1-28

77

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

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit Rows 1-43

Entry/ Exit

(Rows No. 3-7 are omitted.)

Interior Arrangement of Airbus A310 (27J+198Y = 225 PAX) Entry/ Emergency Entry/ Exit Exit Exit

Entry/ Exit

Emergency Exit Rows 1-34

Entry/ Exit

S2-ADK = Rows 1-34 (Rows No. 5, 6, 7, 13 are omitted) S2-ADF = Rows 1-36 (Rows No. 5, 6, 7, 8, 13 are omitted)

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Fleet Data TECHNICAL DETAILS

AIRCRAFT 777-300ER

777-200ER

A310-300

737-800

Passengers

35 J + 384 Y

12 J + 21 W + 286 Y

25 J +196 Y

12 J+ 150 Y

Engines (maximum thrust)

GE90-100 (115,300 lbs.)

PW4090 (90,000 lbs.)

PW4000 (56,000 lbs.)

CFM56-7 (26,300 lbs.)

Maximum Fuel Capacity

181,300 liters

171,200 liters

61,630 liters

26,025 liters

Maximum Takeoff Weight

755,000 lbs

632,499 lbs

361,600 lbs

70,987 kg

Maximum Range

7,825 NM (14,490 km)

7725NM (14316 km)

9,600 km

5,665 km

Typical Cruise Speed

905 km/h

1000 km/h

850 km/h

828 km/h

Wing span

212 ft. 7 in (64.8 m)

199 ft. 11 in (60.9 m)

144 ft. 0.4 in (43.9m)

112 ft. 7in (34.315 m)

With winglets

n/a

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)

153 ft. 0.9 in (46.66 m)

129 ft. 6 in (39.472 m)

Tail Height

60 ft. 8 in (18.49 m)

60 ft. 8 in (18.49 m)

51 ft. 10 in (15.81 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)

18 ft. 6 in (5.64 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

Routes

International wegv‡bi ‡bUIqvK© AvšÍR©vwZK

78

Saidpur

ˆmq`cyi

Domestic

wegv‡bi ‡bUIqvK© Avf¨šÍixY

Sylhet wm‡jU

Rajshahi

ivRkvnx

Dhaka XvKv

Jessore

h‡kvi

Barisal

ewikvj

Chittagong PÆM«vg

Cox’s Bazar

K·evRvi

May - june 2015

Middle East

ga¨c«vP¨

Ky‡qZ

Kuwait Dammam Wvgvg

Riyadh Jeddah

wiqv`

‡`vnv

Doha

`yevB

Dubai Abu Dhabi Avey avwe Muscat gv¯‹vU

‡RÏv

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London Frankfurt

d«v¼dU©

Rome ‡ivg

Ky‡qZ

Kuwait Wvgvg Kathmandu Dammam Doha ‡`vnv KvVgvÛy Delhi wiqv`Riyadh Dubai `yevB w`jøx­ Dhaka Abu Dhabi Hong Kong Muscat XvKv Avey avwe gv¯‹vU nsKs Jeddah Kolkata ‡RÏv Bangkok ‡KvjKvZv

e¨vsKK

Yangon Bqv½b Kuala Lumpur

Kyqvjvjvgcyi

Singapore wm½vcyi

This map is for illustrative purposes and does not imply the expression of any opinion on the part of the publisher or their sponsors concerning the legal status of any country or territory or concerning the delimitation of frontiers or boundaries.

Aj¼i‡Yi gva¨‡g Ae¯’vb †evSvevi Rb¨ GB gvbwPÎ e¨envi Kiv n‡q‡Q, Gi gva¨‡g †Kv‡bvfv‡eB †Kv‡bv †`k ev A‡ji AvBwb Ae¯’v A_ev mxgvšÍ ev AvÂwjK mxgvbvi g‡Zv welq wb‡q cÖKvkK ev Zv‡`i c…ô‡cvlK‡`i `…wófw½ ev gZvgZ cÖwZdwjZ nqwb|

Map not to scale Cartographers: ttk maps

gvbwP‡Î `~i‡Z¡i AbycvZ e¨envi Kiv nqwb

biman-airlines.com

79

by Prabhjeet Singh

: 15.02

 Growth Of Knit (%)

: 1.6 Million : 45% : 6.3% : 174 Billion Bdt

 Employment Generation

 Female Empowerment

 Poverty Reduction

 Insurance

 Other Short Courses: Garments Consumption & Costing, Waste Identification Techniques To Reduce Waste & Improve Productivity (Through VSM & Process Mapping), Quality Management System, Material Management & Purchasing Planning For Improved Productions, Environmental Health &Safety Management System In RMG, Techniques Of Dealing With Compliance Audit Of Buyers, Banking, Customs & Shipping Procedures For Export Import & Business Development, Incentive & Custom Procedure for Factory etc.

 C ertificate & Diploma Courses Considering Sector Demand: Apparel Merchandising, Textile Testing & Lab Management, Industrial Engineering &Lean Manufacturing, Production Planning &Supply Chain Management, Social Compliance & CSR Issues.

Head Office : Press Club Building (1st & 3rd Floor), 233/1 Bangabandhu Road, Narayanganj-1400, Bangladesh. Phone : 88-02-7641857, 7640535, 7641295; Fax: 88-02-7630609 Dhaka Office : Planners Tower (4th Floor) 13/A, Sonargaon Road, Banglamotor, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh. Phone : 88-02-8620377, 9672257, 8622703, 9670498; Fax: 88-02-9673337 Chittagong Office : Chamber House (4th Floor) 38, Agrabad C/A, Chittagong-4100, Bangladesh. Phone: 031-2514342; Fax: 031-2514345 E-Mail : info@bkmea.com Log on to : www.bkmea.com

BKMEA was established in 1996 as a National Trade Body to represent solely the Knitwear Sector of Bangladesh. BKMEA’s Mission is to Promote and Enhance Knitwear Sector’s Competitiveness, Productivity and Profitability in The Global Market through Support Services to more than 1900 Members. Capacity Building of The Sector and Networking with all Stakeholders is another key commitment of BKMEA. BKMEA is contributing to Employment Generation, Involving Women in the Formal Sector, Increased Substantial Export Earnings, Women Empowerment, Reduction Child Labor, Gender Equality, Health & Nutrition, Diminishing Child Marriage etc. through knitwear export to across the globe. Our motto is to stay afloat in the international competition & Markets with chic, elegant & quality products. We invite buyers/importers of the world to visit our factories & gauge our standards.

Working today to Shine Tomorrow

 Forward & Backward Linkage : 2120 Million Bdt

 Shipping & Logistics Industry : $ 157 Million

: 7.00 (approx.)

 Share In Gdp (%)

 Share In National Export (%) : 39.93

 Share In Apparel Export (%) : 49.20

 Market expansion, Research & Development, Policy Support & Capacity Development.

: $12.05 Billion (2013-14 Fy)

 Knitwear Export

 Factory Based Consultancy Services Focusing To Enhance Skill Of Existing Manpower &Improve Factory Condition: Lean Management System Implementation, Industrial Engineering Department Set-Up & Re-Engineering, Factory Layout Design & Re-Engineering, Fabric Optimization & Cutting Technology, Social Compliance Implementation Process, Fire Safety Training etc.

BKMEA’s Productivity Improvement Campaign

Contribution of Bangladesh Knitwear Sector

WITH THE BEST COMPLIMENT OF BKMEA