Shariful Sheikh, a young artist from Veramara in Kushtia, has created a stir by painting large portraits of global football star Lionel Messi on several walls near Arakandi Bazar in Bahadurpur. Covering about 16 by 10 feet, the four portraits—two in color and two in black and white—were completed entirely at his own expense. The artworks have attracted crowds of visitors who come to take photos and praise his creativity.

Shariful, a commercial artist and drawing teacher, said his admiration for Argentina and Messi began in 2002. He emphasized that the project was driven purely by passion, not commercial motives. Local residents and Argentina supporters have lauded his effort as both an expression of football fandom and a model of rural artistry. Observers noted that such large-scale depictions of international icons are rare in village settings.

Art critics and community members believe that with proper support, rural talents like Shariful could contribute significantly to the national art scene. His Messi portraits now stand as symbols of dedication, emotion, and creative spirit in the heart of Kushtia.

An article published on June 8, 2026, highlights the extensive contributions of medieval Muslim civilization to maritime technology and navigation. It explains how Arab and Persian sailors, astronomers, and engineers advanced shipbuilding, direction-finding, and cartography, creating tools such as the magnetic compass, astrolabe, and detailed sea charts that made long voyages safer and more efficient.

The piece describes how Muslim dominance over the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Mediterranean from the seventh to fifteenth centuries was supported by superior nautical knowledge and ship design, including the triangular lateen sail used on dhows. Muslim geographers like Al-Idrisi, Ibn Majid, and Al-Biruni produced precise maps and guides that served both scientific and navigational purposes. The article also notes the military applications of these technologies under the Abbasid and Fatimid caliphates, which built powerful naval fleets and bases.

It concludes that Muslim maritime innovations laid the scientific and practical foundations for later European exploration, influencing Renaissance-era navigation and shipbuilding techniques.

Twenty-four accomplished Bangladeshis were honored at the 'Bangladeshi Excellence Award in Malaysia 2026', organized by the Dhaka University Alumni Association Malaysia (DUAAM) in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday. The event recognized outstanding contributions in education, research, leadership, women’s empowerment, and community development among the Bangladeshi diaspora.

According to the organizers, the initiative aims to acknowledge the positive global contributions of Bangladeshis and strengthen the country’s image internationally. The ceremony featured recognition for top-cited scientists, university professors, and researchers from around the world. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, Md. Monjurul Karim Khan Chowdhury, attended as chief guest and congratulated the awardees, emphasizing that their achievements enhance Bangladesh’s global reputation.

Awards were presented in four categories: nine in Academic Excellence, nine in Student Excellence, four in Women Empowerment, and two in Community Engagement. Guests from various Malaysian states including Kuantan, Kelantan, Johor Bahru, Malacca, Sabah, Sarawak, and Penang attended the event, which was described as a milestone for the Bangladeshi community abroad.

Modest fashion, emphasizing elegance and cultural identity within Islamic principles, is gaining global popularity among Muslim women. The trend was recently showcased at the first Paris Modest Fashion Week, held from April 16 to 18 at the historic Hotel Le Marois, where around 30 brands from various countries presented collections featuring embroidered satin suits, flowing gowns, and reimagined traditional Muslim attire. The event carried both commercial and cultural significance in France, a country long engaged in debates over secularism and religious symbols.

Organizer Think Fashion, which has hosted international modest fashion weeks for over a decade, stated that the sector is now a vital part of the global fashion industry. According to the “State of the Global Islamic Economy” report by DinarStandard, Muslim consumer spending on clothing could reach about 3 billion dollars by 2028. The growth is driven by a rising Muslim population, social media influence, and a new generation of educated young women expressing identity through modern fashion.

Major brands such as DKNY, Tommy Hilfiger, and H&M have launched special collections targeting this market, while Middle Eastern designers like Isra Allaf are redefining traditional garments such as the abaya through innovative design and cultural fusion.

The Karatulab Khan Mosque, located in Begumbazar of Old Dhaka, stands as a significant example of Mughal-era architecture in Bengal. Built between 1701 and 1704 by Murshid Quli Khan, who was appointed as the Diwan of Bengal by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1700, the mosque is notable for its five domes, octagonal corner towers, and a rare 'baoli' or stepwell. The structure, made of brick, sand, and lime, combines religious function with architectural artistry.

Researchers note that Murshid Quli Khan’s long service in the Deccan region before arriving in Bengal influenced the mosque’s design, particularly the inclusion of the baoli, which is uncommon in Bengal’s mosque architecture. The mosque’s balanced proportions, decorative arches, and restrained ornamentation emphasize structural beauty over lavish embellishment.

More than three centuries old, the Karatulab Khan Mosque remains a valuable monument of Dhaka’s history and Mughal heritage. Its unique architectural blend and historical significance make it an enduring symbol of the city’s cultural and artistic legacy.

An article published on June 4, 2026, highlights the life and scholarship of historian Abdul Karim, who reshaped the understanding of medieval Bengal. Rejecting royal chronicles as the sole focus of history, Karim explored the lived experiences of people, the evolution of language, and the transformation of Bengal’s society during the Muslim rule. His research drew from inscriptions, manuscripts, and travel accounts to reveal a vibrant, complex medieval Bengal rather than a dark or foreign-dominated era.

Karim’s balanced approach challenged two dominant narratives—one portraying the medieval period as an age of conquest and another as pure glory. He emphasized coexistence, cultural fusion, and the local character of Bengal’s development. His works, including studies on national, regional, social, and literary history, as well as numismatics and translations, have become essential references for researchers and students.

The article notes that in today’s polarized debates over history, revisiting Karim’s work is crucial. His method of truth-seeking over partisanship continues to inspire new generations to view Bangladesh’s past through its own soil and people.

A gym owner in Kerala’s Palakkad district has sparked controversy after promoting his fitness center as 'Islam-friendly'. Nawaz Muthu T, who runs the gym in Puthunagaram, released a promotional video stating that the facility would operate without loud music and would have separate workout times and spaces for men and women. He described it as possibly the first of its kind in Kerala and invited people to visit the center, which has been operating for 15 years and is currently being renovated.

The video drew widespread criticism on social media, with some questioning whether the initiative was intended only for Muslims. In response, the original video was removed, and Nawaz released a new clip clarifying that the gym is open to people of all faiths. He explained that 'Islam-friendly' refers to the gym’s operational style, catering to those who prefer gender-segregated spaces and a quieter environment. Nawaz emphasized that membership would not be restricted by religion, though loud music would not be allowed.

Reactions have been mixed, with some praising the effort to create separate workout areas for men and women.

An albino buffalo named Donald Trump has become the main attraction at Bangladesh’s National Zoo since last week. The 700-kilogram animal, known for its golden hair, drew nationwide attention after a viral social media video compared its tuft of hair to that of the U.S. president. Originally sold for sacrifice during the upcoming Eid al-Adha festival, the buffalo was moved to the zoo on government orders citing security concerns. Visitors have been gathering in large numbers despite the heat to see the animal, taking photos and videos near its enclosure.

Local media reported that the zoo initially displayed a signboard reading “Donald Trump,” which was later removed. The zoo curator was dismissed on Saturday, though no official reason was given. Some visitors criticized naming the animal after a world leader, calling it disrespectful, while others viewed it as a harmless curiosity. The buffalo’s buyer was refunded after the Home Minister ordered police to take the animal into custody.

The buffalo’s popularity continues to grow, with visitors traveling from across the country to witness the unusual attraction firsthand.

Professor Dr. Muhammad Abdul Bari, an internationally renowned educationist, administrator, and Islamic thinker, is remembered for his lifelong contributions to Bangladesh’s education and cultural development. Born on September 1, 1930, in Syedpur village of Bogura, he served as chairman of the University Grants Commission, founding vice-chancellor of the National University, and the first elected vice-chancellor of Rajshahi University. He passed away in Dhaka on June 4, 2003, at the age of 73.

Bari’s academic excellence began early, earning top honors in Arabic from the University of Dhaka and completing his D.Phil. at Oxford University at just 23. His career included teaching at Dhaka and Rajshahi colleges, leading the Department of Islamic History and Culture at Rajshahi University, and chairing several national education reform committees. He also played key roles in establishing Shahjalal University of Science and Technology and Islamic University.

Known for his integrity and commitment to Islamic values, Bari led the Bangladesh Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith as central president from 1960 until his death. His reformist vision and administrative leadership left a lasting mark on the nation’s educational landscape.

A memorial mural titled 'Banglar Eagle' has been inaugurated in Raipura, Narsingdi, to honor Bir Sreshtho Matiur Rahman. The inauguration took place on Tuesday morning in the Matiurnagar area, with Narsingdi-5 Member of Parliament Engineer Ashraf Uddin Bokul leading the ceremony.

The event was attended by Narsingdi Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan Keya, Superintendent of Police Abdullah Al Faruk, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Masud Rana, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Sujan Chandra Sarkar, Raipura Circle Officer Bayezid Bin Monsur, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Munmun Pal, and Officer-in-Charge of Raipura Police Station Mojibur Rahman. Local representatives, political leaders, journalists, and administrative officials were also present.

The mural serves as a tribute to the memory of Bir Sreshtho Matiur Rahman, reflecting local efforts to preserve and honor the legacy of national heroes in Narsingdi.

Muslim student Suheila Mukhtar drew international attention after reciting verses from the Holy Quran at Harvard University’s 2026 commencement ceremony. On May 26, during the opening session that featured readings from various religious texts, she recited the first few verses of Surah Al-Alaq. Her melodious recitation captivated attendees and received widespread praise across social media platforms.

Suheila completed her undergraduate studies at Harvard for the 2022–2026 academic term, earning recognition for both academic excellence and community service. In 2024, she was honored as a ‘John Harvard Scholar’ and ‘Prize Fellow’. Her published research covers medical science, women’s empowerment, digitalization, and surgical studies.

She is also actively involved with several health and social service organizations at the university and currently volunteers at a hospital, continuing her engagement in community-oriented initiatives.

Schools and madrasas across West Bengal reopened on Monday after the summer vacation with a new directive from the state education department. According to the order, students must now sing 'Vande Mataram' along with the national anthem during the daily morning assembly. The directive specifies that the full version of 'Vande Mataram', which takes about three minutes and ten seconds to sing, must be performed, prompting schools to adjust their morning schedules accordingly.

Teachers reported that many students have not yet memorized the entire song, so schools are temporarily playing it on mobile devices to help them learn. Once students are familiar with the lyrics, the playback will stop, and they will sing it independently. Madrasas have also begun implementing the order in compliance with the government directive.

Some madrasa head teachers expressed that singing the first two lines poses no issue, but questions remain about the necessity of performing the full song. Despite these concerns, they confirmed that they will follow the official instructions for now.

Bangladesh Television (BTV) has come under scrutiny after reports revealed irregularities in payments for its Eid special program ‘Anondomela’. The 50-minute show was recorded as a 200-minute production to inflate the total honorarium, which reached nearly 2.7 million taka. Payments were allegedly made to several artists, including one who did not participate in the program. The show was hosted by actor Afran Nisho and scripted by Kabir Bakul, who reportedly received additional payments under multiple categories.

Sources within BTV claimed that individuals linked to a previous authoritarian government still hold key positions and influence program planning. The assistant producer Yasmin Akhter admitted that the program followed ministry instructions and confirmed that actor Alamgir did not participate despite receiving payment. Former deputy director general Kamrunnesa Hasan described the practice as unethical and contrary to established rules.

According to internal sources, BTV’s honorarium policy categorizes artists by rank and allows limited increases for national awardees. However, the payments for this Eid program allegedly ignored those regulations, raising questions about oversight and accountability within the state-run broadcaster.

A unique fishing festival was held in Chandara area of Manikganj Sadar upazila to enhance the joy of Eid. Organized by the Chandara Jubo Sangha, the event drew more than two hundred amateur fishers from different parts of the district. From Saturday morning, crowds of participants and spectators gathered at the venue, and at the sound of a whistle, all participants entered the pond together to fish using traditional tools such as polo and kheya nets. The festival created a lively atmosphere, turning the area into a vibrant gathering for people of all ages.

Local dignitaries including Jamaat’s central executive member Muhammad Zahidur Rahman, Manikganj Press Club vice president Abul Bashar Abbasi, and social worker Kamrul Islam attended the event. Guests and community members praised the initiative as a positive effort to preserve rural culture and strengthen social harmony. Organizers said the festival aimed to share Eid joy and revive traditional village heritage among the younger generation.

They also expressed plans to organize similar events on a larger scale in the future, reflecting growing enthusiasm for cultural preservation in rural Bangladesh.

An expert team has been formed to verify whether 47 statues preserved at the Mahasthangarh Museum in Bogura are genuine or replicas. The decision came during a meeting held on Saturday at the office of the Shibganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer, attended by State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shah Alam MP. The committee members briefed the minister on the progress of the investigation and the steps taken so far.

Considering the sensitivity of the issue, the committee’s tenure has been extended by 15 working days. To ensure a more impartial and scientific assessment, specialists from Jahangirnagar University’s Department of Archaeology will examine the statues. Committee convener and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ziaur Rahman stated that Mahasthangarh is a vital archaeological heritage site and expressed hope that the investigation would conclude within the extended period.

The inquiry follows allegations raised at a local law and order meeting on May 11, after reports in several media outlets drew government attention to the matter.