As a student of the Oriental Department, Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University, Najma Akhter was fascinated with Bengali women in their many moods, human relationships and nature as subjects.

“Where Do We Go Now?” a bittersweet comedy set in war-torn Lebanon, bested two well-received entries starring George Clooney to win the people’s choice award Sunday at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Seasoned Bangladeshi actor Bobita has been selected as the Goodwill Ambassador for Distressed Children and Infants International (DCI).

It is a tough balancing act for Swagata to juggle her varied roles — as model, TV show host, singer and actress on TV and the silver screen.

As part of its annual programme, Music Department of Dhaka University arranged a two-day Music Festival 2011 at the TSC auditorium. Chairman of University Grants Commission (UGC) Professor AK Azad Chowdhury inaugurated the festival as the chief guest on July 29.

Lubna Marium — aesthete, danseuse, dance pioneer, teacher, choreographer and impresario is a pioneering figure in the contemporary South Asian cultural scenario.

Marking the birth centenary of Pritilata Waddeder, a day long programme was held at Udichi Mymensingh Sangsad auditorium in the town on July 22. Birkannya Pritilata Waddeder Janma-Shata Barsha Utjapon Parishad organised the programme.

In François Ozon’s latest film, “Potiche”, Catherine Deneuve (pictured) plays a trophy wife, a potiche, who spends her days jogging in a scarlet jumpsuit, making breakfast for her cantankerous husband and writing poetry perched on a sofa.

Rehnuma Tasnim Sheefa, an A-level student of Maple Leaf Internatio-nal School, participated in an international photographic competition ‘ROO CHAYA 2011’, organised by DEVI BALIKA BIDYALAYA, Sri Lanka.

The week of Meherjaan’s release in cinema halls, a friend received a SMS from a viewer: “The film is an insult to muktijuddho, women and Bangladesh.” In a subsequent email debate, some wondered out loud about a “pro-Pakistan” agenda.

A collection of essays on the life and the theatrical acumen of actress Shimul Yousuf was launched at the Conference Lounge, National Press Club on July 16.

Laser Vision Ltd recently launched Dr. Nashid Kamal’s CD, “Jao tumi phire”. The CD, has 12 Nazrul songs: six popular and six rare numbers.

A photo exhibition by Muntasir Mamun denotes the spirit of adventurous Bangladeshi women.

Today is the 100th birth anniversary of late Sufia Kamal, a renowned poet and a pioneer of women’s rights movement in Bangladesh.

Ritchie Solaiman has established herself as a popular actress. She has also done some modelling and she is a dancer. As recognition to her skills, Ritchie has received a Meril-Prothom Alo award. The Daily Star (TDS) recently caught up with the actress.