weekend tribune vol 3 issue 35

vol 3 Issue 35 | FRIDAY, DeCeMBeR 25, 2015 Dhaka Tribune

6 Top eATeRIes oF 2015 12 BD wIns 20 The Bong

MoMMA

WEEKEN D TRI BU N E | FRI DAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015

1CONTENTS

Volume 3 | Issue 35 | Dec 25, 2015

EditorZafar Sobhan

Features EditorSabrina Fatma Ahmad

Asst Magazine EditorFarina Noireet

Weekend Tribune TeamSaudia Afrin

Moumita AhmedN Anita AmreenFaisal MahmudSakib MridhaSaqib Sarker

Syeda Samira SadequeShuprova Tasneem

ContributorsMinu Ahmed

Syed Zakir Hossain

GraphicsMd Mahbub AlamAlamgir HossainTahsin Momin

Colour SpecialistShekhar Mondal

AdvertisementShahin Ahsan

ProductionMasum Billah

CirculationMasud Kabir Pavel

Websitedhakatribune.com/weekendfacebook.com/WeekendTrib

Email your letters to:[email protected]

Editor’s note About the coverDear Readers,With this being the last issue for the year, there’s so much to look forward to, and just as much to reflect on. As always, we bring you lists galore.

Join us as we relive the highlights of 2015, in politics, international affairs, pop culture, and more. There’s plenty for the foodies, and you can even chase it with the last instalment of coverage on Columbus Coffee.

This year, Christmas coincides with Eid-e-Milad un Nabi, and we bring you an extra special Origin Story on the

occasionFor the always stylish, we

bring you trend forecasts for Spring 2016.

If you want to get away from it all, hop straight to our photo story, which takes you to the heart of winter in the Sunderbans.

Here’s wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at Weekend Tribune

-Sabrina Fatma Ahmad

News 2 News

3 Meanwhile

FeatuRes 4 Men’s Fashion

Trend forecasts

5 Women’s Fashion Trending

6 Listology Top eateries

12 Listology BD wins

13 Listology Political events in rearview

14 Listology World affairs

15 Listology Popular culture in 2015

16 Top 10 Slanguage

17 Business Columbus Coffee

RegulaRs18 Stay In

19 Go Out

20 The Bong Momma

OrIGIN STOryEiD MilaD-un naBi

PhOTO STOry WilDlifE

8

9

Cover Photo: Bigstock


2 NEWS | This week

US Sends Putin a reminder to stop meddling in Ukraine

The US Treasury Department issued new sanctions last week to punish Moscow-inspired meddling in Ukraine — this time against 34 Russian and Ukrainian people and firms accused of evading earlier imposed financial penalties.

The action marks the first time the United States has stepped up sanctions related to ongoing aggressions in Ukraine since Moscow began its bombing campaign against the Islamic State in September. Since then, President Barack Obama’s administration has repeatedly called

on Russian President Vladimir Putin to target the Islamic State, not prop up the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The focus on the Islamic State has drawn attention away from the crisis in Ukraine. Putin still holds Crimea, and Russian troops continue to back pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. Photo: Reuters

Turkish tanks pound Kurdish militants in week-long military campaignTurkish tanks pounded Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) targets in Cizre, a southeastern town at the heart of a military operation that the army said has killed 127 Kurdish militants in a week.

Black smoke rose from buildings in the town after shelling from hilltops and the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) said at least 23 civilians had been killed in the violence.

A 16-year-old boy was killed in Diyarbakir, the largest city in the region, from a gunshot wound to

the chest during protests against the curfews, security sources said.

In the town of Sirnak further east, a police officer was killed after militants attacked his armed vehicle, they said.

Clashes have forced tens of thousands of people to leave their homes in Sur, a historic district of Diyarbakir, which has been under curfew for three weeks, CNN Turk said, citing a report by the main opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP).Photo: AP

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will make his first visit to the Vatican and meet Pope Francis in the second half of January, a spokesman for the tiny city state said Tuesday.

While no date has been set, the visit is likely to take place towards the end of the month, spokesman Ciro Benedettini told journalists.

Rouhani, a self-declared moderate who was elected in 2013, had been scheduled to visit the Vatican in November as part of a tour which would have taken him to Italy and France. But the trip was cancelled

following the Paris attacks.

The previous official visit by an Iranian president to the Vatican was in 1999 when Mohammad Khatami met John Paul II, followed by another visit in 2005 when he attended the Polish pope’s funeral.

While it is forbidden to convert to Christianity in Iran, the country’s small minority of Eastern Catholics enjoy greater religious freedom than in many Sunni Gulf statesPhoto: AFP

The BNP yesterday urged the Election Commission to deploy military for the upcoming municipality polls, but the chief election commissioner turned down the demand.

On Tuesday a BNP delegation, led by Abdul Moyeen Khan, a former minister and member of the party’s highest policy making body – the standing committee – went to meet CEC Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad.

This comes a day after the party’s chief Khaleda Zia raised the demand while speaking at a programme in Dhaka.

“As this will tbe first ever municipality polls to be held under political banner, there is a new dimension,” Moyeen Khan told reporters after meeting CEC Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad.

Referring to media reports about

escalating pre-polls violence around the country, the senior BNP leader said there are fears that the level-playing field might be hampered.

Therefore, Khan said, the EC should consider deploying the army for the polls in order to make sure that people go to the polling centres and cast their votes without any fear.

However, CEC Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad said the current situation did not demand deployment of the army. He claimed that the commission had been doing everything needed to ensure a fair election and therefore army deployment was not needed.

He also claimed that the commission had been taking actions against those election officials who are not performing their duties impartially or are showing negligence.Source: Dhaka Tribune

EC turns down BNP’s demand for deploying army

Iran’s Rouhani to visit Vatican in January

The world at a glanceWeekend Tribune

Desk


. . . MEaNWhILE 3

Photo of the week News

It’s the hardships that build a country Photo: Tanvir Ahmed Siddiky

London journalists sing Bangla national anthem for Dec 16

Victory Day celebrated at the University of Oxford

Journalists, along with press ministers and workers from various embassies in the UK, sang the Bangladeshi national anthem at an even on December 15, organised by Nadeem Qadir, the Press Minister of Bangladesh High Commission in London.

The event was organised at a restaurant in south London where the guests enjoyed the victory day celebrations, while also discussing the significance of terms such as “muktijuddho” (war of independence), “shadhinota” (freedom), and “bijoy” (victory).

Commonwealth Journalists’ Association Rita Payne said at the event: “Even though Bangladesh is such an important friend of ours, it is the first time I learned of this journey.”

“It is time for mainstream media to shed light on how Bangladesh, with such a history, is now climbing up the ladder of development,” said Denis Doble, vice president of London Press Club.

The event ended with everyone singing “Joy Bangla, Banglar Joy” in unison.

Oxford University Bangladesh Society (OUBS) celebrated the Victory Day of Bangladesh in the University of Oxford last Saturday. Forty people from 12 different countries gathered at the Graduate Centre of Wadham college to celebrate the event. It was a mesmerizing evening with Bangladeshi cuisine, music and experience sharing. The programme started with documentaries about Bangladesh and her historic liberation movement of 1971. This was followed by a moment of silence in commemoration of the supreme sacrifices of the martyrs from 1952 to 1971. The floor was then open for discussion and the students from different countries shared their feelings about independence of their nations.


You may not be completely ready to say goodbye to 2015 just yet, but a new year means new look to

your wardrobe. We’ll make things very simple with an easy to follow list of 2016’s menswear items that need to be in your closets.

Printed shirtsShort-sleeve button-ups will be a solid choice for your first layer. We’re still dealing with the winter winds but keeping the next season in mind, will keep you on your game. It’s the first layer of two or three now. Later, you’ll start to peal off the layers and show off the printed button-ups you grabbed earlier in the season. Keep in mind the prints are loud enough, try and sport monochromatic colours or even earth-tones.

Distressed selvedge jeansThe beat-up and been through the concrete jungle effect for your jeans are in trend. Careful though, you don’t want too many large holes in your denim or else you’ll be confused for the plumber. Not that it’s a bad thing. You could also argue why buy a pair of jeans that looks like it’s been lost and tossed at a construction site. Believe it or not, those wears and tears are handmade. They are purposely suppose to look like that, without harming the integrity of the materials.

Stressed sneakersA quality pair of distressed high-top sneakers continues the 2016 trend of making things look rough and tough without actually having to do anything. Look at it this way, you won’t have to worry too much about getting these babies dirty in the streets of Dhaka. And even if you can’t get your hands on these specially made sneakers, there are suitable replacements for them. Look for shoes that aren’t completely white and that have hints of grey on the tongue of the show or the laces themselves.

Stormtrooper jeansWith all the Star Wars hysteria going around, why not invest in some white denim? Slim-fit, white denim jeans will be another hit for those late winter evenings. It goes with the snowy,

holiday theme of winter and as we all know, white pretty much goes with anything. The only issue that may cause a stir is trying to keep those lovely white jeans totally clean. This piece can be a winner in the wardrobe, but only if you wear it sparingly.

Wherever you go blazerA navy blazer or suit jacket will now become an absolute staple in 2016. The versatility of the navy suit jacket cannot be denied. From casual to formal, this piece will play a vital role for this season and the next. On one end, the sophistication of the navy blazer can play with or without a tie. Take the same approach for both work and play. The same can go for a pair of navy trousers. The better option is to get yourself a new bespoke or tailored, navy suit and use the jacket and trousers separately. Not only do you have the fit down to perfection, you’ll be able to match each of them up through other outfits.

Lower-level comfortYou might have shied away from your dad’s penny loafers, but guess what? No, they aren’t back in style because they’ve always been there. But for the new year, the penny loafers will bring your casual look to a higher level. There’s a slight rock ‘n’ roll feel to a pair of black penny loafers. Pairing it with some black trousers (socks or no socks) and rolled-up short-sleeve shirt gives you that Mark Ronson vibe. Cue the “Uptown Funk” track, while you’re at it. These shoes can even anchor down a summer suit to balance things out for special occasions.

2016 is right around the corner and

there is much more to add to your wardrobe and this list is the perfect thing to keep you ahead a few steps. Take things one step at a time, and you won’t have to play the guessing game every morning when looking through your closet. n

4 MEN’S FaShION | Trend forecasTs

The 2016 wardrobeYour new year’s style resolutionsMahmood Hossain

Getting a head start on the new year starts in your wardrobe


Pret-a-porter 2016Trends to look out forSabrina Fatma Ahmad

Trending | WOMEN’S FaShION 5

Photos: Rajib Dhar

The curtains are ready to drop on 2015, which means it’s time to start thinking about the year ahead. While we’re waiting to see all the haute pieces from the February 2016 season, it’s safe to discuss the broad strokes of what’s going to be trending in the coming months.

It’s complicatedThere’s a lot happening globally right now. From the migrant crisis, to climate change talks, to, well, Donald Trump. History books (the fun kind) show that when things like this happen, it’s reflected in the fashion of the day. So, too, is Spring 2016 going to be a maximalist season. We’re talking layers, and embellishments and texture, and visual detail.

Victorian flairThe international catwalks are going nuts over Victorian fashion inspirations, and we’re bound to see some spillovers in local couture. Think lush wallpaper-inspired florals (roses, the bigger, the better), and billowy sleeves.

Think pinkAfter the broody marsala and darker prints of 2015, the new spring promises a lighter note with a celebration of all things pink. From fuschia to salmon and everything in between, pink is definitely the new pink in the upcoming year.

Out of the bedroomRobes, wraps, kimonos and pajamas are no longer things to be relegated to the bedroom. Designers at home and abroad are taking inspiration from loungewear to create comfy and chic outfits that are perfect for brunch and the boardroom. n

The mergerAnother direct consequence of engaging with different cultures, is that our designers have found new and interesting ways to straddle local traditions and international styles. Think of fusion garments that incorporate elements of local garb as well as foreign ones to create curious amalgamations. If the sari-gown was big in 2015, the new year is going to bring outfits that need a whole new vocabulary.


6 LISTOLOGy | Top eaTeries

Our favourites for the yearN Anita Amreen

Star restaurants of 2015Butlers Chocolate CafeOpening the first chocolate cafe in Bangladesh, Butlers Chocolate Cafe has taken over Dhaka by storm this winter. And why wouldn’t it? They have combined the aesthetic sense of European café style with the feel good flavours of rows and rows of rich and flavourful luxury chocolates. They have got single servings of chocolates, starting from white chocolate flake, milk caramel boule, to hazelnut truffles. What’s interesting to see is that not only do they serve a killer chocolate spread but they also have a mean menu of savoury items such as, paninis, pizzas and sandwiches that have received glowing reviews. If that’s not enough to have your mouth watering, there’s always their velvety, hot chocolate that will melt your insides.

Holey Artisan Another winner for the ambience and favourite for those who love a good photo, Holey has made its name not only for the al fresco breakfast experience but also their impeccable menu. Serving some of the best house made breads and bakery items, they’ve got foodies smacking their lips in delight with their breakfast spread that includes Eggs Benedict, Feta cheese croissant and bagels.

Manhattan Fish MarketServing classic American-style seafood such as the famous Manhattan Fish n’ Chips, the all-time favourite Garlic Herb Mussels and the legendary Manhattan Flaming Seafood Platter, this international franchise has made people all over Dhaka city fall in love with seafood. While views are divided on whether or not they are worth the hype, a slight majority suggest they are. Guess only a tasting can tell.

Take OutKicking other burger giants out of their game is Take Out. This burger is a monstrosity of meat, cheese, beef bacon and flavour. Their best selling burger, the Chicken Supreme (chicken patties stuffed with cheddar cheese in between, cooked in BBQ sauce topped with a slice of beef bacon and cheddar cheese) is a must-try for burger aficianados as is the Beef and Bacon Burger, a beauty that holds a 200gm beef patty cooked in smoky BBQ sauce. What makes the burger hogging experience even more fun, is the way they’ve packaged the burger in a refoldable, bright orange take-out box.


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Nomads The owners of the popular burger joint Madchef decided to venture into Thai, Malay and Mongolian seas with this newly opened restaurant. Located in Dhanmondi, Nomads’ tribal inspired décor is a balance between casual dining and formal restaurant. While they initially tried to serve an extensive menu with so many items that you struggled to choose just one, they’ve now remedied that problem making a more compact menu which includes Clear Tom Yum, Larb Gai (Thai chicken salad), Som Tam (green papaya salad). From steamed dim sums to flavourful satays to sizzling Pad Thai – they’ve got it all and that too, at a price that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. Win-win.

LucknowIndian restaurants come and go, but Lucknow is here to stay. If anyone who knows how to master the Indian cuisine, it’s Lucknow. From their paneer butter masala to their baby soft chicken sunehri kebabs, this restaurant demands you to come back, time and again. One taste of their handi biryani, or their chicken Ohrni kabab (boneless

chicken sheek covered in cheese and baked) will have you hankering for an Indian fix every now and then. Although their menu is definitely a bit more on the pricier end, theirs is a spread that will give you the maximum bang for your buck. You’ll even want to leave a generous tip for the chef, that’s how good he’ll have you feeling.

Flavors of ChinaOnline communities have begun flooding food review pages such as Foodtalk and Foodbank with photos of soft, plump dumplings waiting to be popped. Before you knew it, rumors of the new big dumpling space begin to take over. Flavors of China promises feel good poppers such as the classic Sui Mai, the Prawn Hargao (prawn dumpling in a pleated shape) and the paradoxical Poached Peking Dumpling that is fried golden and crisp on one side, and steamed soft and tender on the other. n

A Restoran Riding the wave of high tea trends, A Restoran has somehow managed to tap into a niche. While the regular lunch and dinner menu is unworthy of mention, their high tea offer helps them regain votes from the foodie community. Their English afternoon tea spread includes egg sandwiches, cucumber sandwich, scones, lemon meringue, smoked salmon and capers, sponge cake, macaroons and an assortment of tea (twinings, PG tips along with flavoured teas) all for Tk2000++ for two people.

Pizza Roma Pizza Roma has made it to the list because of their ability to always stay on top of their game by introducing innovative items to their menu, always keeping customers guessing. Not only have they introduced exciting new flavours to their pizzas such as the Genovese( feta cheese and spinach), but they have also introduced a separate menu for oven baked pasta and other Italian specials. The lasagna is layer and layer of warmth and goodness, while the classic Polpette al Sugo is a dream of beef meatballs in home made tomato sauce, served with a side of rice. Let’s also not forget the scintillating Chantilly Mousse Al Cioccolato and the classic Tiramisu jars.


8 OrIGIN STOry | eid Milad-un nabi

60,000 men and 13 elephants headed towards the Ka’aba in the city of Mecca, to destroy this pagan house of worship

which the Arab tribes had filled with idols. The army was lead by Abraha, King of Yemen, who was proud to have the celebrated elephant Mahmud, which had been lent to him by Negus of Abyssinia. Abraha had built a beautiful church in Sa’na of Yemen and wanted everyone, including non-Christians to use it for their pilgrimage. This did not go too well with the Arabs who had their own archaic Ka’aba which they revered immensely. Abraha charged forth with all his force but the greatest of them all, Mahmud the elephant relented. As he neared Mecca, Mahmud stopped and knelt towards the Ka’aba. No amount of coaxing, supplications or the use of force would make the mighty elephant budge. He hastened away from Mecca but would not go towards it. And then, it is said that the sky suddenly grew dark as a massive group of birds, the Ababil came flying out carrying stones in their beaks and hurled these down on the advancing army, until none was left to attack Mecca. The animals had refused to let the city be attacked, the city that was soon to give birth to one, who would be known as the last prophet of God. A man who would give rise to the last major religion of the world; a man, who would bring people of all kinds, regardless of the colour of their skin, their status in life or their nationality, as one. The prophet Muhammad (SAW) is thought to have been born in 571 CE, on the 12th day of the month of Rabi-ul Awal known as the Sana-al Fil or the year of the elephant.

As the years progressed and Islam spread across regions and continents,

the caliphates continued ruling in parts of North Africa and it was during the Fatimid Caliphate in Egypt that the birth of the Prophet was celebrated in style, but not until the Ottomans did it become a proper designated holiday, in the late 1500s. Like all birthdays, something special was cooked, people wore new clothes and greeted each other in remembrance of the holy day of the Prophet’s birth. Of course prayers were also a major part of this festival as the day of the Prophet’s birth or Mawlid in Arabic is also known as the day he passed away. The feeling of joy and sadness were balanced out as

Celebrating the birthday of the Prophetas the year draws to an end Muslims and Christians the world over will be celebrating the birthdays of their two Prophets. With an air of festivities, we eagerly await the foods and good cheer that Christmas and Eid Milad-un nabi will bring us. Reema Islam

Egyptians celebrated Mawlid and to this day, some very special rituals are performed. Halwatil mowlood (sweets of the prophet) are consumed which are mainly sugar dolls, some carrying a sword sitting on a horse while The National Islamic Choir collaborates with the opera house to put up special shows throughout the week. The Egyptians love their creaking tables on special occasions and duck features a lot at Mawlid feasts. While the festivities go on for about a week, television programmes are all geared towards this event as old movies with an Islamic theme are telecast on TV and religious hymns are played on repeat all over.

In some Arab countries like Libya, children dressed in their best wear on Moulud-un nabi come out carrying small lanterns or candles and stand opposite each other in a line. Then the lanterns are passed from one child to the other, signifying the arrival of the Prophet who brought the light of knowledge, education and wisdom with him. A special meal is served called aseed which is dough pudding, with a ball of boiled dough that is drenched in melted butter, date syrup or honey. In other countries like Iraq, especially in Erbil, Mawlood Nabaui is celebrated with a menu that includes dolma, rice

with soup and some kind of meat, heavy with the spice of celebration!

Eid Milad-un Nabi is considered a third Eid in the Indian subcontinent where in Pakistan the flag will be hoisted on all national monuments while a gun salute at dawn rings in the birthday. In some parts of India, processions are carried out where artefacts of the prophet like his footsteps in a glass casket, is smeared with sandal paste. From Kerala, to Sylhet and Peshawar, everyone wears their best outfit and food and prayers are an integral part of the day.

This year, Eid Milad-un Nabi is all the more special as we celebrate the birthdays of two prophets. One is the Gregorian calendar date while the other, is the lunar Islamic date. Both Jesus and Mohammad preached for peace, humbleness and righteousness while the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) paid especial stress on the need for education. In a world that is becoming increasingly intolerant and replete with strife, let us not forget the true message these revered men brought to us and their struggles to leave us a world where we could live in peace.

Eid Milad-un Nabi Mubarak and a very merry Christmas to you all! n

“Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! You also should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace.”

Photo: Bigstock


winTer’s wildlife | PhOTO STOry 9

Photos: Syed Zakir Hossain

Winter wilderness

Winter is the ideal time to visit the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest with a unique ecosystem that creates a rich and diverse habitat for wildlife. in case you don’t get the opportunity to see for yourself, this week we bring you recent pictures of the exotic birds and beasts from the Katka and Kochikhali wildlife sanctuaries in the Sundarbans. from the beautiful blue-eared kingfisher to the threatened otter species, today’s photo story is a special treat for the wildlife lovers of Bangladesh.

Spotted Deer

Wildlife lovers


10 PhOTO STOry | winTer’s wildlife

Phot

o: Im

ran

Khan

Fishermen Junglefowl

A panaromic view of The Sundarbans

Crimson Sunbird Lesser Adjutant Blue-eared Kingfisher


11

Otters Greater Coucal

Verditer Flycatcher Common Iora Crested Serpent Eagle


12 LISTOLOGy | bd wins

Moumita Ahmed

Achievements of Bangladesh

Tigers make history2015 has been the best year in the history of Bangladesh cricket – a year of wins that gave rise to the term “Banglawash”. Under the guidance of coach Chandika Hathurusingha, Bangladesh reached the quarter-finals of the ICC World Cup for the first time, only to be defeated by India in a match that was mired with controversial decisions. However, we then went on to whitewash Pakistan in the ODI series in March, as well as revenge ourselves against India with a 2-1 ODI series win in June. This was only the beginning, and our cricket team went on to achieve ODI series wins against South Africa in July and Zimbabwe in November. A glorious year for Bangladeshi cricket, history was made when we won five consecutive series on home soil. This year also gave us Mustafizur Rahman, the only bowler to take 13 wickets in his first three ODIs and become Man of the Match on both his Test and ODI débuts.

Prime Minister as leading global thinkerDetermined by the influential Washington-based journal Foreign Policy, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has made it to the aristocratic club of 100 leading global thinkers of the world. She has been ranked among the 13 top global thinkers in the category “Decision-makers” for her exceptional contribution in addressing the issue of climate change. In the past, US President Barack Obama, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Mayanmar

Leader Aung San Suu Kyi and former US President Bill Clinton were among the global leaders placed in this respected list.

Champions of the EarthIn September 2015, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina received the highest environmental accolade of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the Champions of the Earth award, in recognition of Bangladesh’s far-reaching initiatives in addressing problems induced by climate change under her leadership. Bangladesh’s first-off-the-block initiatives to prepare the ecologically fragile country for the challenges it faces from climate change were acknowledged through this award.

Lower-middle income statusBangladesh has graduated from the status of lower income country to that of lower-middle income country in 2015, according to World Bank. This is the first time that the country has moved out of the low-income margin, joining those with gross national incomes per capita (GNI) of $1,046 to $4,125. What is even more extraordinary is that this has been achieved some six years ahead of the government’s projected timeline, since Bangladesh was set to cross the threshold of a middle income economy by 2021.

The sky is no longer the limitThis year, for the first time in the history of Bangladesh, Captain Nazia Nusrat Hossain and Captain Shahrina

Bintea Anwar became the first female pilots in the Bangladesh army. The two female probationer pilots successfully managed their single and dual flight in the army aviation group (flight training organisation of army) in October 2015. The statement signed by ISPR Assistant Director Rezaul Karim Shammi said the addition of female pilots in Bangladesh Army would open a new horizon and the two female pilots would work as a source of inspiration for Bangladeshi women.

Bangladesh on Seven SummitsThis year, mountaineer, activist, social worker and writer Wasfia Nazreen became the first Bangladeshi and only Bengali to climb the highest mountains on the seven continents of the world. Nazreen completed the Seven Summits record following mountaineer Reinhold Messner’s variations, and was recognised by National Geographic as one of their Adventurers of the Year 2014/2015. On 18 November, she reached the summit of Carstensz Pyramid, the tallest mountain in Oceania, thus completing a four year long journey to the Seven Summits. She dedicated this incredible achievement to the “Spirit of 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh and all those who are fighting to protect it.”

Tulip Siddiq becomes British MP Granddaughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and eldest daughter of Sheikh Rehana, Tulip Siddiq made it to the House of Commons in the UK general election

as a candidate of the Labour Party. Polling 23,977 votes, Tulip won the Hampstead and Kilburn seat by defeating the Conservative Party’s Simon Marcus. Previously a local councillor and Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities in Camden council, Tulip has spent weekends campaigning since she was 16 and has vowed to fight to save local hospitals, fire stations and post offices.

Year of festivalsNovember 2015 kicked off with the Jazz and Blues Festival, the first of its kind in Bangladesh, boasting names like John McLaughlin and Louis Banks, as well as a number of talented singers and troupes from six different countries. This was closely followed by the Dhaka Literary Festival, which featured speakers from all over the world, including Nobel Prize laureate Harold Varmus, famous British journalist Jon Snow, top Cuban sci-fi writer Yoss, Palestinian poets Ghassan Zaqtan and Fady Joudah, and many more. While we barely had time to catch our breath from this incredible meeting of minds, it was time for the Dhaka International Folk Festival, with Sufi legend Abida Parvin and our very own Momotaz Begum wowing the thousands of people who attended. Finally, this hectic but incredible month was rounded off by the Bengal Classical Music Festival, with return performances from classical heavyweights Hariprasad Chaurasia and Shivkumar Sharma, as well as an incredible first time performance from the legendary Zakir Hussain. n

This has been a good year for women


A year to remember

poliTical evenTs in rearview | LISTOLOGy 13

Saudia Afrin 2015 was, like most years in Bangladesh, filled with political events – some that filled us with shame, whereas others were milestones that will continue to impact our future. In this issue, we touch on the main political events that occurred this year.

This shame belongs to all of usEvery year, people of all ages and belonging to all sections of Bangladeshi society come together to celebrate Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year). This celebration has come to be known as the biggest Bangladeshi festival, one that we observe with pride. On 14th April, the whole city was abuzz with music and vibrant colours, from the corner of every room to the largest roads in the city. However, the joyous celebrations were bitterly run to the ground when a group of miscreants assaulted and sexually harassed women, almost at around the same time, at different points of Dhaka University’s TSC and Suhrawardy Udyan gate areas. These incidents led to an outpouring of outrage from people and media outlets all over the city and were subsequently

investigated by the authorities, but with little or no results.

Endless hartalsAt the beginning of the year, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia announced a countrywide indefinite blockade of road, rail and waterways on 5 January, the first anniversary of the general election that her party boycotted. This led to months of clashes between BNP-Jamaat activists and police and Awami League activists, and there were a record number of arson attacks, with bus and CNG drivers, passengers and other civilians becoming the victims of these attacks. According to Ain O Salish Kendra, there were 66 days of hartals and blockades from January to March, resulting in 122 deaths and 3051 people being injured.

Attacks on freedom of speechOn 26 February 2015, the entire nation was shocked when Bangladeshi writer and blogger Dr Avijit Roy was murdered by machete-wielding assailants outside the Ekushey Book Fair. This was the first in a series of murders of atheist/secular writers -

blogger Oyasiqur Rahman, Ananta Bijoy Das and Niloy Chatterjee were all brutally murdered during the year. In October, Roy’s publisher Faisal Arefin Dipan, who published his controversial book titled ‘The Virus of Faith’, was also murdered in his office. On that same day, publisher Ahmedur Rashid Tutal and two writers, Ranadeep Basu and Tareque Rahim, were also brutally attacked but survived. In all of these attacks, outlawed extremist group Ansarullah Bangla, an Al-Qaeda group, has claimed responsibility or been suspected for carrying out the attacks.

A milestone initiative For the first time since it was established, Dhaka City Corporation was split up into two parts, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). This also led to the need for two separate mayors for the separate Corporations, leading to widely publicised and contested mayor elections. From submitting nomination papers to electing two mayors, the elections were rife with speculation and controversy and definitely posed

A year to remember

Photo: Syed Zakir Hossain

a big challenge to Dhaka’s citizens. On April 27, Annisul Huq was elected as Mayor of DNCC and Sayeed Khokon was elected as Mayor of DSCC.

Killing of foreignersDuring the latter part of 2015, two foreigner were killed in the country within a week. The first was Italian citizen Cesare Tavella, who was shot dead in Dhaka’s diplomatic zone on 28 September. Five days later, a Japanese man named Kunio Hoshi was killed near Rangpur. After both of these tragic incidents, ISIS claimed responsibility for the killings through SITE Intelligence Group, a US monitoring organisation. These incidents led to heightened security within the capital, especially in diplomatic zones, along with travel warnings from Western nations to Bangladesh, including USA and the UK.

Death penalty of war criminalsOne of the biggest political events of the year, although it was hardly a surprise, was the handing down of death penalties to war criminals Salauddin Quader Chowdhury and Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid by the International Crimes Tribunal. Shortly after their verdicts, both the condemned men were executed on 22 November. Salauddin, a standing committee member of BNP, was hanged for killing Nutan Chandra Singha and orchestrating three other genocides at Raozan during the war with an intent to exterminate the Hindus and his political opponents from that locality. Mujahid, who had been at the helm of infamous al-Badr force for the last few months of the war, was hanged for the systematic killing of intellectuals.

Social life stopped for whileAt the end of November 2015, the Government of Bangladesh decided to ban a few social media platforms and online messaging and calling services, including Facebook, WhatsApp and Viber, on the grounds of public safety and security. This ban continued till December, and there were rumours that this ban was upheld to discourage discussion on the execution of the war criminals, although the government denied this claim. According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, this ban resulted to a 7.17 lakh drop in number of internet users in November. n

2015 has been a year of upheavals


14 LISTOLOGy | world affairs

A Changing World

War in the Middle East Almost all of 2015 has been dominated by news on ISIS and the war in Syria, with fierce battles in Raqqa, Tikrit and Kobane. While the media has been saturated with ISIS atrocities, the destruction of the ancient ruins at Nimrud and Palmyra only added to the shock, and the beheading of 82 year old Syrian scholar Khaled al-Asaad, who refused to lead ISIS militants to hidden antiquities – put another human face to the hundreds who have lost their lives to the terror of ISIS.

This year, we saw the war in Syria turn into a proxy war between the US and Russia as well as between other regional powers. While the US led coalition and other regional powers have continued operations against ISIS, the top story of the year was Russia’s decision to bomb Syria, although Russia has made it clear that its aim is to aid the Syrian government and target not just ISIS, but their other enemies as well. We also saw Turkey becoming an increasingly important player in regional politics, with violence spilling into their borders as well - most notably, the October bombing at an Ankara rally that left 102 civilians dead.

Meanwhile, the civil unrest in Yemen escalated to full blown war but received significantly less coverage, with Saudi Arabia’s role in bombing Houthi rebels and destabilising the nation being largely ignored by Western governments.

Nowhere to goAccording to the International Organisation for Migration, a million refugees reached Europe in 2015, in what has been called the worst refugee crisis since World War II. The initial response from Europe was far from sympathetic - 650 refugees were feared dead in a boat capsize in April, yet in June UK Prime Minister Cameron described the asylum seekers at Calais as ‘swarms of people’, while most of Europe continued to use the term ‘migrants’. While Germany and Turkey took in the brunt of refugees, other European countries closed their

borders and tightened immigration control, with Hungary completing a 175 km long razor wire fence on its borders with Serbia.

However, these views shifted when one of the most devastating and poignant photos of 2015 emerged in September - the lifeless body of three year old Aylan Kurdi washed up on a Turkish beach. The world mourned this Syrian child, and many countries decided to accept more refugees than before, although a proper solution is yet to be reached.

Paris attacksOne of the most talked about incidents of the year were the November terrorist attacks in Paris that took 130 lives. There was an outpouring of mourning and solidarity from all across the world, which also led to a debate on why this level of support was not shown for victims of terrorist attacks in the non-Western world, with parallels being drawn to attacks in Beirut the same week, which claimed 43 lives.

The Paris attacks also led to France stepping up airstrikes against ISIS bases in Syria and Iraq. In the aftermath, the UK also joined the airstrikes against ISIS, and while the world has come together to express solidarity, there has also been evidence of rising anti-Muslim and anti-Syrian sentiments.

Je suis Charlie/BagaThe attack against French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebo in January, where 12 people were killed, was also the cause for international mourning and opened up debates on freedom of speech, with ‘Je suis Charlie’ becoming one of the most popular hashtags in Twitter history.

However, it also opened similar debates on the media bias in favour of Western targets of terrorism, since in that same week, a series of mass killings were carried out by Jihadist group Boko Haram in the Nigerian town of Baga. It is still unclear how many people lost their lives - claims vary from 150 up to 2,000 people killed, but there was no similar level of

The events in 2015 that will shape the world as we know it Shuprova Tasneem

international outpour of solidarity. To highlight this bias, people also took to Twitter using the hashtag ‘Je suis Baga’.

Major shift in US foreign policyAfter 54 years of estrangement, 2015 also led to what we once thought was unthinkable - normalisation in US-Cuba diplomatic relations that has been termed the ‘Cuban Thaw’. On July 1st, 2015, US President Obama announced that formal diplomatic relations between the two nations would resume. This included relaxing existing travel and trade restrictions, removal of Cuba from the US ‘Terrorist Sponsor’ list and embassies being opened in both countries of the other.

This year, President Obama also made his determination to pursue a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue evident, which culminated in a long-term nuclear deal between Iran, US, UK, France, China, Russia and Germany. While the White House has assured this deal will ensure that Iran’s nuclear programme is peaceful, Iranian President Rouhani has also called this deal a major ‘political victory’, much to the disappointment of Israeli PM Netanyahu, whose condemnation of the deal led to a surprisingly long season of disagreement with President Obama.

San Bernardino shootingsOn December 2nd, Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik opened fire at a holiday party in San Bernardino, killing 14 people and injuring 22 others, before being killed in the subsequent police shoot-out. This was the deadliest mass shooting in the US since 26 people, mostly children, were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012. This violent attack re-opened debate on gun control in the US, with statistics revealing there were over 300 mass shootings in 2015 alone, and over 51,000 incidents of gun related

violence. This incident also fed into the

debate on immigration and led to rising anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant sentiments in the US, with Donald Trump calling for a blanket ban on Muslims. This turned out to be one of the most controversial statements of the year, with Democrats and Republicans alike criticising him for his racist and xenophobic comments.

The game of corruption2015 has also been considered the year of scandal for sports, with FIFA President Sepp Blatter and UEFA President Michel Platini being banned for eight years from all football-related activities by FIFA’s ethics committee due to charges of rampant and systematic corruption. This is the first time that FIFA, the body responsible for running world football and generating billions of dollars in revenue, has been investigated in this manner, giving rise to serious worries on the transparency and honesty in the processes involved, including allocating World Cup tournaments, corporate sponsorships, president election etc.

To infinity and beyond2015 has been an incredible year for science and space exploration specifically - in April, NASA’s Dawn spacecraft became the first mission to achieve orbit around Ceres (which lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter), becoming the first spacecraft ever to visit a dwarf planet. On July 2015, the interplanetary space probe New Horizons also flew only 12,500 km above the surface of Pluto, making it the first spacecraft to visit this dwarf planet. Additionally, one of the biggest news of the year was the evidence of flowing water on Mars. According to researchers, this discovery is incredibly important because it points to the possibility of Mars being home to some form of extraterrestrial life. n

Egyptian cartoonist Islam Gawish pays tribute to Aylan Kurdi


popular culTure in 2015 | TOP 10 15

2015 So FarMoumita Ahmed

The year’s coming to an end, and it’s perfect for a ‘recap time’. 2015 has been a bizzare year so far

in the world of pop culture. Here are all the most important, unexpected, life-changing, exciting, once-in-a-life time pop culture moments that ever happened

The DressIs the colour of that dress, blue and black or white and gold? It is the question that has divided the Internet. Also known as Dressgate, a picture of this lace trimmed bandage dress started a fierce debate, as some people see it as blue and black, while others see as white and gold. The picture of the dress was first posted on Tumblr by Caitlin McNeill, a 21-year-old aspiring singer from Scotland, after noticing her friends saw different colours in the photograph. This might have been the most talked about topic this year, and some are still confused, though the colour of the dress have been proven to be blue and black.

Starbucks Red Cup Keeping the tradition alive Starbucks introduced this year’s holiday cup. This cup’s design is simplistic – an ombre from bright red to dark cranberry. While some Twitter users have praised the minimalist design, others think the cups are a ‘war on Christmas’. Starbucks released them on November 1st, and within days

the issue became one of the top stories and dominated the headlines. Hundreds of people including social media personality Joshua Feurstein, raised the issue declaring it was an attack on Jesus. More than 15 million people have watched his video, and over 500,000 people have shared it.

AdeleThe queen of heartbreak, breakups and pain, Adele suddenly surprised the world with her third album’s single Hello. With over 485 million YouTube hits, the song has surpassed the success of her previous hits Rolling in the Deep and Someone Like You. The British songwriter is seen picking up a vintage flip phone in an old world setting, with lyrics “Hello? Can you hear me?” The lyrics set off numerous spoofs, with Ellen Degeneres claiming she was the inspiration behind the video in a spoof, while Saturday Night Live had its own version.

Caitlyn JennerThe Kardashian family knows how to make headlines. The most significant and shocking of all headlines, however, was made by Kim’s stepfather Bruce Jenner. A retired Olympic decathlon champion, he won the gold medal at Montreal Summer Olympics in 1976. He also held the unofficial title for the “world’s greatest athlete.” Father of six children from marriages to three ex-wives, the world was shocked when

he revealed he is a transwoman in April 2015. After 66 years of silence, Bruce publicly announced his name and gender change by posing for a cover of Vanity Fair as the transformed Caitlyn Jenner. She is now the most famous transgender woman in the LGBT community, also being awarded Arthur Ashe Courage Award as well as the Woman of the Year Award.

Man BunsA man bun is a type of long hairstyle that involves the tying of one’s hair into a single bun to be placed upon the crown area of the head. Several other names have been given to it, which include bro bun, hipster bun, dude bun and let’s not forget mun (man bun). From hipsters to non-hipsters to celebrities like Zayn Malik and Jared Leto to the boy living next door, anyone and everyone has once tried out the look this year.

Hotline BlingSeems like the telephone, communication and heartbreak are the central themes of 2015 pop culture. And with that theme in mind, the Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer and actor, Drake released his song ‘Hotline Bling’. His newest single dropped on October 19th, and ever since then Drake has been dealing with a pretty unique issue. Since the disclose of some unorthodox dance moves, the man who started from the bottom has been withstanding a tidal

wave of mockery at the hands of the internet. Drake’s lead-footed, helium-armed dancing in ‘Hotline Bling’ is some of the most awkward moves ever introduced to pop culture.

BelieberThis year Justin Bieber’s haters have converted to Beliebers (believers of Justin’s music). You hated him since the time of his first release - Baby, but all of a sudden you see yourself humming his songs all day and night. One fine day, you dared to hit the play button of the song ‘Where are you now?’ and started nodding along without even realising who was singing those melodic notes. This made you a Belieber just like thousand of other Beliebers across the world.

PepeIn 2015, when people were talking about Pepe, it wasn’t the Real Madrid football player, but Pepe the Frog, a frog character from the comic series Boy’s Club by Matt Furie. Sometime in 2008, there was a comic where Pepe pulls his pants down to urinate – this image was made popular on 4chan as the caption read ‘Feels good man’. This snowballed over the years to make Pepe, the large dumbfounded frog with many reaction faces in Feels Good Man, Sad Frog, Angry Pepe, Smug Frog, and Well Meme’d. Now Pepe has over 20,000 memes, photos as well as a dedicated Facebook page, Instagram page and a Tumblr blog. n


Words that have been on fleek in 2015

16 TOP 10 | slanguage

a comprehensive guide of phrases/words that have gotten the internet in a verbal firestormWeekend Tribune desk

TurntThe greatest contribution to 2015’s internet slang list is the word Turn’t. Turn’t is the Internet’s way of referring to a person who’s intoxicated in some way, or are just ready to have a real, rollicking good time. Coined by Wiz Khalifa and Juicy J, people use it to describe a time when they’re going crazy at a party or a club (or just Snapchat).Mark: Dudee, I got so turnt last night!

Netflix and chillIf you’re looking for a casual hook up and want to get some quick action, “wanna Netflix and chill?” is the way to go. Usually considered to be a phrase used by men, this one’s now also used for and by the female population to pretend like you want to watch something worthwhile, but really you’re just in the game for some Bow Chica Wow Wow. Guy on Tinder: Netflix and chill? Girl: Naww

SquadIf two’s company, three is a squad. And your squad is your select clique of friends you roll with, party with and die for. They are your “mains” (your BFF’s) or your your baes (hybrid word for babies or your ultimate and one and only true friend). This overused word is mostly found on Instagram posts, or is screamed at parties or gatherings where you are squad deep, in other words, when your whole “crew” is together. It’s hallelujah/fam/bae and crew all rolled into one word. Synonyms include fam, short for family. The love for your squad is always real. Jenny: Do you always hang with Ross? Samantha: That’s right. He’s part of my squad.

BasicAccording to the internet, everyone is a little “basic.” By basic, they mean anything boring, uncool or just generally uninteresting. It has come to a point where it’s the first adjective to describe women who “conform to the most bland and uncreative stereotypes of late capitalist feminity” according to American Readers article on the life and death of trending American slangs. Shelly: Time for a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Crowd of girls in another corner: Oh my god. That girl is so basic, I can’t even.

On FleekThe ultimate and most overused phrase on the internet, “on fleek” is another way of saying something or someone is on point, or is perfect. Originating from a Vine with a woman who used it to describe her perfect eyebrows (yes, that’s a thing), this phrase has gone on to describe everything from Taylor Swift’s swag to Putin’s comments on putting ISIS to rest. Although “on fleek” is still a bit more 2014, the word hasn’t been laid to rest just as yet.Carly: That outfit is on fleek!

When it comes to the slang game, there isn’t anything

quite like the one raging on the Internet. With Urban Dictionary steamrolling the most of slangs, there’s nothing quite like Internet speak. Tumblr’s got Life Ruiner’s (a term used for celebrities and other idolised objects of fan affection), Youtube has it’s share of W00T (another word for saying “hurrah”), Tweeter’s love BFN (short for “bye for now”) while Instagram is quickly moving away from #ThrowbackThursday to #ICant, #Cryin #ImCrying and

#Dead.If you think you’ve mastered

the art of incorporating the list of cray phrases in your vocab, think again. Bro has turned into “sis”, sis into fam, then fam quickly turns into squad, and squad is now a goal. If that’s not confusing, try MERP – a meaningless word dropped in conversation when you have nothing to say. YOLO, salty and cray are Internet slangs that have now become decidedly old-fashioned.

Here’s the big A list of internet slangs or words that have trumped the waves of 2015.

YASSUrban Dictionary has described it as “bird language” for girls who cannot pronouce “yes,” but truth be told, this isn’t that far from the truth. Used to express high levels of approval, you over pronounce the word to show just how excited you feel. If you’re not feeling that positive, you can always use the negative equivalent: naww. #thatsright.Kamal: Nando’s tonight? Anika: YASSSS!

Bye FeliciaFelicia is the epitome of someone unworthy of attention, conversation or even a reply. Felicia can be male, female or just no one in particular. Ever had a conversation where you “literally, couldn’t even” you make a quick U-turn and slap them with “Bye Felicia!” to show them just how basic, annoying and irrelevant they are to your life. Leela: Can I borrow your red top? Tara: Bye Felicia! *exit*

LitWhen you’re so high/out of it and just “turn’t up” (read above) that your eyes are dazed and blazed, almost “lit” like a light. Your friend can be lit, the club can be lit and your room can also be lit. A situation too, is subject to being “lit” for being so absolutely phenomenal, amazing or exciting. Joe: Turn up the speakers cause this party about to get lit son! Felicia: Hallelujah! n


Winners of the top prize for 2016 roaster of the year, Crimson Cup Coffee and Tea was

initially started in 1991, in Columbus, Ohio, by Greg Ubert, a Harvard graduate. He named his business Crimson Cup both for the ripe red berry of the coffee tree and in honour of Harvard’s official colour, crimson. Known for serving great cups of coffee to its customers, they try to maintain the quality by using the finest grade of coffee beans which are freshly roasted everyday in small quantities.

Crimson Cup Coffee started its journey this year, here in Bangladesh under the name Columbus Cup Coffee. The reason the management decided to not use the original name is because Greg, the owner wanted to taste the coffee first, and see how it functions in the local market, and also observe whether they can maintain the quality.

Accepting the challenge, Rehanur Rahman and Mohaimin Mostafa began their expedition, and have succeeded in making a mark in the hearts of coffee lovers in Dhaka.

The fact that they have maintained the size, price, quality, and their good personal relationships with their customers have helped them to become one of the best coffee shops within a very short period of time.

Having witnessed the success, the owners, with the blessing of Greg, have decided to open a new branch in Dhanmondi, under the original name Crimson Cup Coffee. A combination of great promotional skills and marketing policies have helped them to come this far. Social media has also been their greatest friend and a few critics have helped them to become even better. Now, they have the country license to expand their business in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Nepal, etc,

all operating under the original brand name.

As they are opening a new branch in January 2016, they are going to have people here from the US for a coffee tasting event to ensure that the quality is maintained. In order to promote the new name, they are actively working and reaching out to the people through social media, and also undertaking different promotional steps in terms of advertising and marketing.

“It is going to be better in terms of adding new flavours, bringing in some of the American culture, and establishing our bakery,” claimed Rehanur Rahman. “Dhanmondi is a very crucial area because people, mainly students and young job holders frequently complain about not having good enough places to go to. Therefore, impressing these people is going to be a challenge in itself,” he also added.

Every new employee undergoes

training by specialist Steve Bayless so as to meet the level of high standards that Crimson Cup promises their customers, and they hope to expand and open a number of outlets in the country within a certain period of time.

The present prospects look very promising for Crimson Cup, however only time will tell how far they will go and if they will be successful in making their dreams come true, part of which is to turn the country into a coffee drinking nation. n

coluMbus coffee | BuSINESS 17

Painting the town crimsonDreaming of a nation of coffee drinkers, one cup at a timeMoumita Ahmed


18 STay IN

S u d o k uuse the numbers 1-9 to complete each of the 3x3 square grids such that each horizontal and vertical line also contains all of the digits from 1-9

Last week’s sudoku solutions

ACROSS5 Achieve by will in their new way (7)6 Ladder missing first snake (5)9 Scientist and bird with gin cocktail (7)

DOWN1 Identical sibling loses head for victory (3)2 Flashy commercial in partial darkness (7)3 Poison assortment of carnies (7)4 Sounds like a number dined (3)7 Introverted throw (3)8 An attempt in the past (3)

Last

wee

k’s

solu

tion

s

aCROss1 Spice mixed for fans (7)4 Cardiovascular Bio-care movement (7) 6 Drool as Agnes displays Italian cooking (7)7 We sent back soup first for damp (7)

DOwN1 Superficial performance contains everything (7)2 Sacks of fries ordered (5)3 Uncle confused America with central part (7)5 Instrument the French used under insect (5)

Clues

Solved it? Email answers to [email protected] and win one free month of the Dhaka Tribune.

Mini crypticsho

rosc

opes

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19): Knackered to the bone, ‘cause packing’s a pain? Got travelling plans this Christmas? Then make this one of those holidays that you’ll always remember and cherish. Taurus (Apr 20-May20): Santa would be a Taurus we reckon, a mighty bull taking up all the responsibilities of the world. He’d also be fair and wise and sometimes a bit too nice and generous.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): Get ready to climb up the social ladder and invite some hot and happening people from all sides of the spectrum into your life.

Cancer (June 21-Jul22): Get some rest, meditation and a combination of healthy diet could benefit you enormously.

Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22): Find it in your heart to forgive those who have hurt you in the past this Christmas and move on with your life without holding any grudges.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): Forget Christmas! You’re all that everyone cares about, ‘cause you’re going to be getting some attention this week you pretty young thing. Whatever it is you’re doing at work, home and outside when you’re socialising keep doing it.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct22): So you feel under-appreciated and overwhelmed? Think no one gives you enough credit for the things that you have to deal with on a regular basis? Well guess what? It’s Christmas and after slaving around all day you’ll finally realise that you are the one person who holds everything together and without you the everyone would fall apart. Sometimes, some things don’t have to be said they’re just felt and you are loved more than you can ever imagine, ‘cause without you, everyone else’s world would crumble to the ground.

Scorpio (Oct23-Nov21): Perhaps this Christmas you should spend some time on reevaluating

and communicating with your emotional and vulnerable side. You always seem to brush off negative emotions; which is stoic and brave but in the long run can be harmful and eat you inside.

Sagittarius (Nov22-Dec 21): Have fun this Christmas running around chasing after the kids, after all it is about the presents. Be sure to open yours with caution so that you don’t get a papercut.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan19): Christmas is about giving more than receiving however is receiving is more fun than giving and you happen to be broke. By all means be the person who eats, drinks and receives presents and stays merry.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18): What’s the most challenging thing about Christmas? Cooking? Cleaning? Wrapping? Lack of sleep? Getting fat? It’s the waiting that bothers you isn’t it? Don’t worry you’ll get through it, patience my dear.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20): You are swimming across strong currents and have not been in the festive mood. Don’t worry Fish Father Christmas will soon fix that for you.


GO OuT 19

Weekly Planner Dec 26-28Education | The Art and Practice of Leadership WorkshopWhen 10am-5:30pmWhere Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center (BYLC), Plot 3, Road 20, Block J, BaridharaWhat Leaders are made, not just born. Espousing this vision, Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center (BYLC) is pleased to announce the application launch of the national workshop on ‘The Art and Practice of Leadership’ for third and fourth year university students.

This workshop will provide participants with an exceptional opportunity to learn about leadership, communication, and career development. They will undergo a stimulating personal journey that will develop their leadership potential, promote active citizenship, and help them gain new competencies to better compete in the current job market.

To learn more, visit: www.bylc.org/apl

Dec 25Poetry | Shimul Mustapha’s Solo recitation When 4pmWhere Robindro Sarobor, Dhanmondi

LakeWhat Shimul Mustapha will be reciting 71 poems on our liberation in 1971 after a nine months long war against the oppressors. The event will be held in Robindra Sarobor. The event is free for all.

Dec 27-28Culture | Heem Utshob-2015 When All dayWhere Jahangirnagar UniversityWhat This year Jahangirnagar University welcomes everyone to enjoy the ‘Heem Utshob’ like every other year. There will be art camp, photography exhibition, art exhibition, poetry, baul concert, country dance, puppet show and concert. Jahangirnagar invites all to relish this moment with them.

Dec 22Lifestyle| Christmas Event @Radisson Blu DhakaWhen 3-7pmWhere Radisson Blu Water Garden, Airport Road, Dhaka CantonmentWhat Radisson Blu Dhaka is bringing Christmas joy to everyone. Christmas songs from their international band Freemind, Christmas goodies for kids,

magic show, kids play corner, candy floss station, finger food buffet and what not. Radisson invites everyone to join their amazing Christmas event at a minimal cost of Tk1500/person.

For reservation and more information please contact 9834555.

Dec 26- Jan 20Art | Celebrated Violence 5: WoundWhen 5-9pmWhere 1/11, Iqbal Road (3rd floor), MohammadpurWhat Drawing exhibition by Dilara Begum Jolly. The drawings are all monochromatic (black and white). Shahaduz Zaman, author, medical anthropologist and teaching at Newcastle University, UK – will speak on the opening ceremony.

Exhibition is curated by Wakilur Rahman and Kehkasha Sabah.

Dec 26- Jan14Decor| Berger Home Décor Fest When 9am-5pmWhere Dhanmondi, Banani, UttaraWhat This winter, Berger Paints Bangladesh Ltd brings you ‘Home Décor Fest’, the first event of its kind from Berger Home Décor Team. To celebrate the New Year, Berger invites

all to their Dhaka based Home Décor branches to enjoy the warm and festive atmosphere. They are giving amazing offers on Berger services including special offers upto 20% off on Berger Illusions.

The event will be starting from December 2015 to January 2016 at the three Home Décor Branches in Dhaka as below:

Dhanmondi Home Décor(December 26th- January 7th)

Address: House-39/B (New)/311 (Old), Road-27, (Old)/16 (New), Dhanmondi

Mobile: 01971453666 or Email: dé[email protected]

Banani Home Décor (January 2-14)Address: House-24, Road-11,

Block-F, BananiMobile: 01938888775 or Email:

[email protected] Home Décor (January 2-14)Address: 8, Garib E Newaz Avenue,

3rd Floor, Sector: 13, UttaraMobile: 019277294166 or Email:

dé[email protected] enjoy this special occasion,

Home Décor Team are giving away attractive gifts for any walking visitors. There will even be welcome snacks for the guests.

Dec 27-31Culture | Media Youth Leadership Summit 2015

Dec 25-26Culture | Unmad-JCC Comic Con 2015

When 7-9pmWhere EMK Center, House 5, Road 16 (New) 27 (Old), 9th Floor, Midas Center, Dhanmondi R/A What MYLS is the first international summit in Bangladesh for the young people who have passion to work in media. It is a place where future leaders of film, TV, new media, radio and print media will be gathered to discuss and share views about different sections of media. If one wants to work in visual production, radio, as a journalist, or have a passion for photography and cinematography, or love the cartoon and writing, this is the

event where they can meet with the professionals, you can share your ideas and moreover you can make new friends who have the same interest as you.

This summit is organised by Dream On and Young Professionals Association of Bangladesh(YPAB) is the strategic Partner. n

Registration link: http://goo.gl/forms/63P5d1JR9BKeep on eyes and like their pages for more updates: Dream On: www.facebook.com/dreamonbdYPAB: www.facebook.com/skill.ypab

When 10am-8pmWhere International Convention City Bashundhara - ICCB, Kuril Bishwa RoadWhat Two days of packed fun for all comics fans. All kinds of comics and offers one can think of wil be there. T-shirts, caps, posters, figures will be displayed

for sell. Fabulous items will be available there, varying from Tk25 to Tk80,000. Cryptic Fate, and Aurthohin will be performing as well. A huge cosplay competition will go down in this event. Iconic Comics and Collectibles will be in display. And of course great food from everyone’s favorite vendors. n


Sooner than it started, the time at my parents’ house came to an end, and it was time to

take Jellybean home to her dadabari. Of course The Husband’s parents were overjoyed in anticipation and were eagerly waiting.

By the end of her first month of life, Jellybean had survived newborn jaundice, mashi pishi and incessant cuddling. And her mom had survived an episiotomy, hip baths (in a too small tub), and sleep deprivation. If they ever made the TV show Survivor on new moms, the chaos and drama would be enough to drive the ratings through the roof!

The newborn Jellybean wasn’t a wrinkled mass anymore, and had gained some baby fat, making her more hug-friendly. This reminds me of a story that my father frequently recounts, of his experience when he first laid eyes on his first-born, yours truly. I know he tries to be funny while telling this story, but remorselessly describing me as a “red lump of meat” just doesn’t cut it. Although I’m not really surprised, my dad now refers to

me as a sack of potatoes, and proceeds to stifle a guffaw.

Subtle, Abbu, very subtle.The day we took Jellybean back

to my in-laws, they had made arrangements for her akika as well. The naming ceremony was more symbolic than elaborate, but once again, Jellybean received gifts, mostly gold and blessings.

Settling into the new environment wasn’t easy, and a lot more work was involved. I was home alone during the day, as everyone had work commitments. I would put Jellybean down for her mid-morning nap and then run to bathroom for a quick shower. Nevertheless, I could come back to see those huge dark eyes glaring at me, wide awake, even though I was gone for barely five minutes.

There was no occasion when we didn’t know that Jellybean had left us a little surprise in her diaper. She would scrunch up her little face and then there would be a tiny bomb blast sound emitted from her diaper. And sure enough, a mass of what looked like my old yellow-ochre coloured oil pastels

had melted would be found in the diaper. The sight got even better when we had started solids many months later and the yellow would be dotted with black banana seeds. A visual

masterpiece, I tell you.With the change in setting, it

took Jellybean a while to settle in. She absolutely refused to sleep in her cot anymore, and so we began the long (and apparently unending) journey of co-

sleeping. I could barely sleep at first, tense about accidentally smothering her in my sleep. The weather was cold and we would bundle her up in blankets, which proved to be futile as I would have to unwrap that woolly bundle every time her diaper needed to be changed. As cute as onesies are, they are a pain to take off from newborns that need frequent diaper changes.

Jellybean slept the most during the day, and would be up most of the night. Staying up at all odd hours were starting to take a toll on me, and that’s when my in-laws pitched in and we all started taking shifts in taking her at night. I would keep her till 3-4 am, and then my in-laws would keep her till 7 am, after which The Husband would take over till he had to go to work at 9 am. I would squeeze in a few hours of sleep in that time. It was during this period that Jellybean developed the need to be walked to sleep, a problem we face till date. I swore to myself that I would never repeat that mistake the next time around.

The attempts to make Jellybean

sleep was like trying to thread a needle blindfolded. Sometimes, she would sleep in seconds, and sometimes hours would go by and that round face strewn with saliva would be blinking back at me. I could almost imagine a thought bubble popping up above her head and it would say, “Yeah. Bet you think I’m awesome now.”

If I wasn’t walking, I was swaying back and forth in some crude dance style, trying to tire Jellybean out. My mom-in-law had another trick up her sleeve, where she would sit and place Jellybean onto a pillow placed on her outstretched legs. Then she would rock her legs left and right or bounce her knees up and down. It made a great makeshift rocker/bouncer and worked wonders to make Jellybean sleep.

Everyone would tell me to sleep when the baby sleeps, but it isn’t always possible, and right then it had seemed that sleep was the greatest luxury. You need to sleep and get recharged; your body needs the rest from all the milk production and baby duty. If possible, ask someone to watch over the baby while you grab some shuteye, or else you will become tired and cranky and that in no way is help to anyone, especially your baby.

This is my last column for 2015 – it has been a great year and I have received immense joy writing my pieces and hopefully I have, on some level, connected with one of you. Here’s to a brand new year and lots more of The Bong Momma!

Cheers! n

20 ThE BONG MOMMa | Tales froM a firsT-TiMe MoM

Getting into the groove of diapers, onesies and rocking Jellybean to sleep Minu Ahmed

Minu Ahmed is your not-so-average homemaker, norm-shirker and abomination of awesomeness, juggling a career in communication, mother- hood and a fatter half. Questions? Send to [email protected]

All Day I Dream About Sleep

Photos: Bigstock

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