Indian and Pakistani forces exchanged fire along Kashmir’s Line of Control following Wednesday’s escalation when India launched missile strikes on Pakistan, claiming to destroy nine sites. At least 43 deaths have been reported: 31 Pakistani civilians and 12 Indians. Pakistan’s PM vowed to “avenge” the casualties. US President Trump urged both sides to “stop,” while Iran is attempting to mediate between the nuclear-armed rivals.READ FULL
Author: Redoy K
Four contemporary Tagore adaptations that are a must watch
In celebration of Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary, four notable film adaptations of his works are highlighted: Rituparno Ghosh’s “Chokher Bali” (2003), which powerfully portrays a widow’s autonomy; Anurag Basu’s Netflix series “Stories by Rabindranath Tagore” (2015), featuring strong female characters; Ghosh’s “Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish” (2012), exploring gender identity; and Bangladeshi film “Shasti” (2004), depicting the harsh realities women faced in male-dominated society.READ FULL
Dozens of students arrested in pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University
Police arrested dozens of Columbia University students who occupied Butler Library’s main reading room during a pro-Palestinian protest. Demonstrators unfurled banners and refused to leave, prompting university officials to request NYPD intervention. The protest is part of ongoing campus demonstrations against Israel’s Gaza war, with students demanding Columbia divest from companies supporting Israel’s military. President Trump has criticized the protests and canceled university research grants.READ FULL
Before ‘Sindoor’ There Was ‘Meghdoot’, ‘Vijay’: Past Military Ops Against Pak
India conducted “Operation Sindoor,” a tri-service military strike targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, killing 70 terrorists and injuring over 60. The 25-minute operation, named by PM Modi, was in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. Officials called it a “measured, non-escalatory” response to Pakistan’s support of cross-border terrorism.READ FULL
Schools shut in Rajasthan, Jammu border districts after India’s missile strikes on Pakistan
Educational institutions in four Rajasthan districts and five Jammu and Kashmir districts have been closed following India’s missile strikes on Pakistan. Both government and private schools in Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Barmer in Rajasthan were shut as precautionary measures. J&K’s Divisional Commissioner announced similar closures in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts amid heightened security concerns.READ FULL
Pakistan military says India damaged hydropower plant in Pakistani Kashmir
Pakistan’s military alleges India damaged the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower project during Wednesday’s early morning strikes across the Kashmir border. Military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry questioned the legality of targeting water infrastructure under international war laws. The dam reportedly sustained structural damage during the attack.READ FULL
Major Ukraine drone attack restricts Russia’s airport traffic
Ukraine launched 105 drones at Russia overnight, with 19 shot down over Moscow just days before the city’s May 9 World War II victory parade. The attacks led to flight restrictions at over a dozen Russian airports, though Moscow’s main Sheremetyevo airport remained operational. Drones also targeted other regions including Voronezh and Penza, while an electrical substation attack in Kursk injured two teenagers. Meanwhile, a Russian drone strike killed one person in Ukraine’s Odesa region.READ FULL
iPhone 18 Pro may launch in 2026, but standard model in 2027: report
Apple may split its iPhone 18 lineup across two launch windows, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Pro models would release in late 2026, while standard versions would follow in early 2027. This departure from Apple’s traditional fall-only cycle aims to compete with Chinese brands’ earlier releases and manage production for an expanding lineup. The strategy would mark Apple’s first deliberate split in flagship iPhone releases since establishing its September pattern in 2011.READ FULL
Garment worker dies in Gazipur road crash; highway blocked in protest
Garment workers blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway for over three hours after a female colleague was killed by a hit-and-run truck in Gazipur’s Hurricane area around 7:45am. The victim died instantly, prompting workers to begin their protest at 8:15am. The blockade caused severe traffic congestion, affecting numerous commuters while police worked to restore order and clear the road.READ FULL
Chinmoy shown arrested in four more cases
Chinmoy Krishna Das, ex-ISKCON leader, was arrested in four additional cases related to last November’s violent clashes at Chattogram court. He now faces five cases total, including one for the murder of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif. The violence erupted after Chinmoy was denied bail in a sedition case, leading to attacks on police and vandalism. Forty people have been arrested so far in connection with these incidents.READ FULL
Govt. appoints new navy officer as Sergeant at Arms in JS
Navy Commodore M Rashed Sattar has been appointed as the new Sergeant at Arms in Bangladesh’s Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament), replacing Commodore Sabbir Ahmed Khan who transfers to the Armed Forces Division. The public administration ministry announced the appointment takes immediate effect. The Sergeant at Arms maintains order, security, and protocol within parliament, particularly during sessions, and performs ceremonial duties. This parliamentary position is typically filled by a navy commodore on deputation.READ FULL
Pakistani hackers have targeted Indian defense websites following the Pahalgam terror attac
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India has appointed Ashish Gupta as Brand Director of Skoda India effective May 1, 2025, replacing Petr Janeba who returns to the Czech Republic. Gupta, with over 20 years of automotive experience including 5 years leading Volkswagen India, will focus on accelerating Skoda’s growth strategy. Nitin Kohli from Audi India will take over as Volkswagen’s Brand Director. CEO Piyush Arora emphasized these appointments reflect the company’s commitment to developing local leadership talent.READ FULL
Russian President Putin accepted Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to visit India
Pakistani hackers have targeted Indian defense websites following the Pahalgam terror attack, potentially compromising sensitive data from Military Engineer Services and the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defense Studies. A group called Pakistan Cyber Force attempted to deface Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited’s website, which has been taken offline for security audit. This cyber campaign comes amid deteriorating India-Pakistan relations after the recent attack that killed 26 people, for which Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba’s proxy has claimed responsibility.READ FULL
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin announced the Election Commission
Russian President Putin accepted Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to visit India for their annual bilateral summit during a Monday phone call. The leaders emphasized their strategic partnership that “continues to develop dynamically” despite external influences. Putin expressed condolences for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, assuring India of Russia’s support against terrorism. Modi congratulated Putin on the upcoming 80th anniversary of Russia’s Victory in the Great Patriotic War.READ FULL
Election commission will not get involved in political controversies: CEC
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin announced the Election Commission will avoid politically controversial activities and emphasized collective decision-making during a meeting with officials in Mymensingh. He promised a free and fair national election with no nighttime voting. Regarding DSCC Mayor Ishraque Hossain’s swearing-in, Nasir clarified it falls under the Local Government Ministry’s jurisdiction, not the EC’s. Officials also discussed voter list updates and election preparations.READ FULL
Bangladesh to get 350 million euro loan from European Investment Bank
EIB has committed €350 million in framework loans for renewable energy projects in Bangladesh, with the EU adding €45 million in grants. The announcement came during the ADB’s 58th Annual Meeting, where Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed met with EIB President Nadia Calvino. Active in Bangladesh since 2000, the EIB has invested €635 million across six projects. Ahmed emphasized the need for increased investment in human capital and infrastructure as Bangladesh navigates LDC graduation.READ FULL
Bangladesh ‘A’ crush New Zealand ‘A’ in 1st one-dayer
Bangladesh ‘A’ defeated New Zealand ‘A’ by seven wickets in the first one-dayer at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Khaled Ahmed and Tanvir Islam claimed three wickets each as New Zealand was dismissed for 147, with five batters scoring ducks. Only Rhys Mariu (42) and Dean Foxcroft (72) reached double figures. Mahidul Islam Ankon (42*) led Bangladesh’s successful chase, reaching 149-3 in 27.2 overs. The second match is scheduled for Wednesday.READ FULL
Theatre Factory reimagines Jibanananda Das in ‘Komola Rong er Bodh’
Theatre Factory’s “Komola Rong er Bodh,” directed by Alok Basu, premieres Friday at Bangladesh Mohila Samity. The play explores poet Jibanananda Das’s life and legacy, featuring his final nine days after a tram accident in 1954. Four shows run this weekend, with four more scheduled later. The production includes portrayals of key figures from the poet’s life with a creative team handling lighting, costumes, music, and choreography.READ FULL
Olympic Industries to buy Tk 22 crore lands in Narayanganj
Olympic Industries will acquire 503.5 decimals of land in Narayanganj for Tk 22.25 crore to support future expansion. The board approved purchasing five plots, including 404 decimals in Rupganj for Tk 18.18 crore, with the remaining plots near their Lolati factory. The company also reported a Q1 2025 net profit of Tk 42.98 crore, a 1% year-on-year increase, with EPS rising to Tk 2.15.READ FULL
Liton named Bangladesh T20 captain till 2026 T20 WC
Liton Das has been appointed Bangladesh T20I captain until T20 World Cup 2026, replacing Najmul Hossain Shanto who remains captain for other formats. The 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who previously led Bangladesh to a 3-0 T20I series win against West Indies, will begin with upcoming UAE and Pakistan series. The BCB also named Mahedi Hasan as vice-captain in the 16-man squad for both series.READ FULL
SpaceX’s Starbase is now an official city
SpaceX’s South Texas rocket facility has officially become the city of Starbase after residents voted 212-6 in favor of incorporation. The newly formed 1.5-square-mile city, largely populated by SpaceX employees, will establish its own government rather than relying on Cameron County. The move coincides with legislative efforts to transfer beach closure authority from the county to Starbase, concerning local environmental groups who fear restricted public access.READ FULL
Video: Houthi Ballistic Missile Strikes Near Israel’s Biggest Airport
A ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis hit near Ben Gurion Airport Sunday after “several attempts” to intercept it failed, the IDF reported. One person was reportedly injured. Israel has vowed to retaliate “seven times stronger.” The airport temporarily closed but resumed operations shortly after. Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz called for Israel to hold Iran directly responsible, urging “a severe response in Tehran.”READ FULL
PM Modi Meets Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Amid India-Pakistan Tensions: Sources
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh met PM Modi amid rising India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians on April 22. This follows meetings with Navy and Army chiefs. Modi has given military leaders “complete operational freedom” to respond, stating perpetrators will be punished “beyond their imagination.” India previously responded to terror attacks with surgical strikes in 2016 and airstrikes in 2019.READ FULL
Three Russian artistes take the Shilpakala stage for a musical evening
Three talented Russian musicians—pianist Stanislav Chernukhin, soprano Karina Khovalyg, and baritone Mikhail Loginov—performed at the National Theatre Hall yesterday. The event, organized by Russian House and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with support from Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory, featured classical compositions and operatic works. Part of the “Rising Stars” initiative promoting young Russian musicians globally, the concert aimed to strengthen cultural bonds between nations.READ FULL
US ends duty-free shipping loophole for low-cost goods from China
The US has eliminated the “de minimis” tariff exemption on Chinese goods worth less than $800, implementing new duties of 120-145%. The move targets e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu, potentially raising consumer prices. This represents the latest development in escalating US-China trade tensions, with both nations imposing retaliatory tariffs on imports.READ FULL
Hajj flights from Ctg begin today
Biman Bangladesh Airlines launches direct Hajj flights from Chattogram today, with the first flight carrying 419 pilgrims departing Shah Amanat International Airport for Madina at 5:30pm. Immigration procedures began earlier today. Sylhet’s Osmani International Airport will commence Hajj flights on May 14.READ FULL
Trump Says He Has “Potential Deals” With India, Japan Amid Tariff Threat
US President Trump revealed he has “potential” trade deals with India, South Korea, and Japan during a NewsNation town hall on Wednesday. Trump indicated he’s not rushing to finalize these agreements, stating that the US is “sitting on the catbird seat” and benefiting from his imposed tariffs. “They want us. We don’t need them,” the president said, suggesting America holds the advantage in these negotiations.READ FULL
Pakistan Violates Ceasefire Along LoC For 7th Consecutive Night
Pakistan has violated ceasefire along the Line of Control for seven consecutive nights, firing across Kupwara, Uri, and Akhnoor sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. India’s army responded proportionately. These violations risk the 2003 ceasefire agreement recommitted to in 2021. Tensions have escalated since the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, with both countries implementing retaliatory measures. The US has urged de-escalation while supporting India’s counter-terrorism efforts.READ FULL
Israel’s ‘Largest’ Wildfires Rage Outside Jerusalem, Residents Evacuated
Massive wildfires near Jerusalem, described as “largest-ever” in Israel, have forced the evacuation of thousands and injured 13 people. Over 160 rescue teams with aircraft support are battling the flames, hampered by dry conditions and high winds. Israel has requested international aid, with several European countries sending assistance. The fires have burned nearly 3,000 acres, closed major highways, and led to the cancellation of Independence Day celebrations.READ FULL
Jenna Ortega eyes directorial debut with long-nurtured script
Actress Jenna Ortega reveals she’s been developing a personal script for nearly ten years and is now taking concrete steps toward directing it. While currently balancing acting and executive producing roles in projects like “Wednesday” and “Death of a Unicorn,” Ortega says directing is her ultimate goal. She views her current on-screen presence as a strategic stepping stone toward a future behind the camera..READ FULL
EA to fire over 300 employees
Electronic Arts is laying off 300-400 employees, including 100 at Respawn Entertainment, while canceling an unannounced Titanfall game. Respawn confirmed dropping two early-stage projects but will continue developing Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi series. EA cited the need to realign resources for future growth following weaker-than-expected performance of FC 25 and Dragon Age amid economic uncertainty.READ FULL
HC fixes May 8 for verdict on Ramna Batamul bomb blast
The High Court will deliver its verdict on May 8 regarding death references and appeals in the 2001 Ramna Batamul bombing case. The attack during Pahela Baishakh celebrations killed 10 people. In 2014, eight defendants received death sentences and six got life imprisonment. All convicts were allegedly members of Harkat-ul-Jihad al-Islami. Militant leader Mufti Abdul Hannan was executed in 2017 for a separate attack.READ FULL
Former Suzuki Motor Chief, Osamu Suzuki, Posthumously Conferred with Padma Vibhushan
Osamu Suzuki, former Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has been posthumously awarded India’s second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan. His son Toshihiro Suzuki received the award from President Droupadi Murmu on April 28. Osamu Suzuki was instrumental in establishing Maruti Udyog Limited in 1983, revolutionizing India’s automotive sector by providing affordable vehicles and transforming the country into a regional manufacturing hub for Suzuki.READ FULL
Pak-Based Hackers Target Army Public Schools, Other Indian Sites
Pakistani hackers have targeted multiple Indian websites including Army Public School sites and military-affiliated platforms following last week’s Pahalgam terror attack. The hackers defaced pages with Pakistani flags and provocative messages about Kashmir. Indian cyber-security systems detected the intrusions and restored affected sites. These cyber attacks come amid escalating tensions after India accused Pakistan of involvement in the attack that killed 26 people.READ FULL
Pakistan Minister Warns Of ‘Immediate Threat’ Of India War
Pakistan’s defense minister warned of potential war with India following a terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 people, saying tensions could escalate within days. India has accused Pakistan of involvement, imposing diplomatic and water-sharing restrictions. Pakistan denies links and has retaliated by expelling diplomats and closing airspace to Indian carriers. Both nuclear powers have fought several wars over Kashmir since 1947.READ FULL
Carney’s Liberals win Canada election, will form minority government, CTV says
Canadian PM Mark Carney’s Liberals won Monday’s election but will likely fall short of a majority government, with CTV projecting 156 seats versus 172 needed. Trump’s tariff threats and annexation comments boosted Carney’s campaign after trailing by 20 points in January. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre focused on cost of living and housing issues. The minority government outcome comes as Trump reiterated his call for Canada to become “the 51st state.”READ FULL