The fourth Bangladesh Short and Documentary Film Festival runs May 27-31 across eight divisional cities, organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. From 322 submissions, 89 films were selected (60 fiction shorts, 29 documentaries). Awards include Best Film (TK 150,000), Best Director (TK 100,000), and special categories. Filmmaker Anam Biswas will inaugurate; Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostafa Sarwar Farooki will close the festival.READ FULL
Trump defends block on foreign students at Harvard
President Trump defended his administration’s move to block foreign students at Harvard after a judge suspended the action. Trump questioned why Harvard’s 31% foreign students receive education while their countries “pay nothing.” Homeland Security revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll international students, threatening thousands and the university’s income stream. Harvard successfully sued, calling the action “unlawful and unconstitutional.”READ FULL
19 Bangladeshis pushed back from India through Meherpur border
Nineteen Bangladeshi nationals, including nine children and five women, were pushed back from India through Sonapur Majhpara border in Meherpur’s Mujibnagar upazila. The group had illegally entered India seeking work and lived in Haryana state. They were detained by Indian authorities six-seven days ago, jailed in West Bengal’s Berhampore, then pushed back early today. Police have taken them into custody.READ FULL
Shankar Mahadevan calls AI a ‘friend-assistant’, suggesting it’s not a threat to musicians
Grammy-winning composer Shankar Mahadevan has created “Rubaroo” using AI tool Sandbox, developed with YouTube and Google Lab. The Sufi-contemporary fusion track was unveiled at Google’s I/O conference. Mahadevan insists AI is a “friend and personal assistant,” not a replacement for musicians, comparing it to past technology shifts like synthesizers. He emphasizes human creativity remains irreplaceable in final artistic decisions.READ FULL
Exclusive: Nvidia to launch cheaper Blackwell AI chip for China after US export curbs, sources say
Nvidia plans to launch a new AI chipset for China priced at $6,500-$8,000, significantly cheaper than its restricted H20 model ($10,000-$12,000). The Blackwell-architecture GPU will begin mass production in June, using simpler specifications to comply with US export restrictions. Nvidia’s China market share has dropped from 95% to 50% due to ongoing trade curbs, with Huawei emerging as main competitor.READ FULL
Zabeer wins back-to-back Stockholm Junior Water Prize Bangladesh
Zabeer Zarif Akhter from St. Joseph Higher Secondary School, Dhaka, has won the Stockholm Junior Water Prize Bangladesh 2025 for his “AI-Based Rapid Water Testing System.” The device uses AI, machine learning, and IoT technology to provide real-time water quality monitoring with 97% accuracy. Zabeer previously won in 2024 and will represent Bangladesh at the global finals in Stockholm.READ FULL
Operation Endgame takes down malware network, neutralising over 300 Servers
Operation Endgame, a major international law enforcement effort led by European, North American and British authorities, dismantled a malware distribution network. Over 300 servers were neutralized, 650 domains seized, and 3.5 million euros in cryptocurrency confiscated. Thirty-six individuals identified, 20 face charges with international arrest warrants issued. Total seizures since 2024 exceed 21 million euros.READ FULL
Atlas Bangladesh all set to launch electric bike Atlas EV
Atlas Bangladesh Ltd has partnered with Chinese company Zhejiang Luyuan Electric Vehicle to assemble and manufacture electric scooters and bikes under the “Atlas EV” brand. The state-owned enterprise plans to launch sales through its dealer network by August 2025. The MoU was signed on May 22 at BSEC Bhaban in Dhaka. The government holds 51% stake in ABL.READ FULL
Ishraque demands resignation or pledge from ‘non-neutral’ advisers
BNP leader Ishraque Hossain demands immediate resignation of three “non-neutral and dangerous” advisers from the interim administration, or their written pledge not to contest the next election. He called this “non-negotiable,” claiming their presence threatens electoral credibility. Hossain also urged authorities to interrogate National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman regarding potential threats to Bangladesh. The specific advisers weren’t named publicly.READ FULL
Cannes 2025: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Back In The Bay With Daughter Aaradhya After Attending The Film Festival
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan returned to Mumbai with daughter Aaradhya after attending Cannes 2025. She showcased two stunning looks – a Manish Malhotra saree and Gaurav Gupta gown with Banarasi cape. Her sindoor look went viral amid divorce rumors with Abhishek Bachchan, putting speculations to rest. Fashion critics praised her appearances after last year’s backlash.READ FULL
32 Real-Time Water Monitoring Stations To Be Set-Up For Yamuna Clean-Up
BJP-led Delhi government will install 32 monitoring stations on Yamuna River and major drains by year-end to track water quality in real-time. Ten stations on the river, 22 on drains will monitor key pollutants and transmit data to Delhi Pollution Control Committee. CM Rekha Gupta allocated ₹500 crore for cleaning, including 40 sewage treatment plants.READ FULL
Ex-CEO Of Ocean Theme Parks Defends Record After Dolphin Deaths
The Dolphin Company’s fifth marine mammal death in a year occurred amid a bitter corporate fight between CEO Eduardo Albor and lenders over the bankrupt firm’s $100 million debt. Independent managers struggle to investigate deaths as Albor controls Mexican headquarters while lenders manage US/European operations. Federal investigators cite pool disrepair and algae growth at Florida facilities.READ FULL
Sleeping With The Enemy: East German Honeypot Network That Seduced The West
East German spymaster Markus Wolf deployed attractive male agents to seduce lonely West German women with access to classified information. These “Romeo spies” were trained in psychology and romance, targeting secretaries and clerks in NATO offices and government ministries. The operation successfully extracted state secrets through manufactured relationships, leaving many women devastated when the deception was exposed in the 1980s.READ FULL
Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut ‘Eleanor the Great’ wins five-minute Cannes ovation
Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut “Eleanor the Great” received a five-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival. Starring June Squibb, the film follows a 94-year-old woman navigating grief and friendship after personal tragedy. Johansson called the premiere “a dream come true” while praising her cast’s performances. She also appears in Wes Anderson’s “The Phoenician Scheme,” which premiered at this year’s festival.READ FULL
Lady Gaga wins Emmy, one step away from EGOT glory
Lady Gaga has won a Sports Emmy for her Super Bowl performance of “Top Gun: Maverick’s” “Hold My Hand” in New Orleans. The emotional tribute featured first responders and Tom Brady. With multiple Grammys and an Oscar already secured, Gaga now only needs a Tony Award to join the elite group of 18 EGOT winners in entertainment history.READ FULL
Nusraat Faria gets bail
Popular actor Nusraat Faria received bail from a Dhaka court after being jailed in an attempted murder case connected to last July’s uprising. Her lawyer submitted travel documents proving she was in Canada when the alleged offense occurred. Faria was arrested at Dhaka airport before boarding a flight. The case, filed by a man injured during July protests, also names former PM Sheikh Hasina and 17 other actors.READ FULL
Turkish Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Dhaka after ‘bird strike’
A Turkish Airlines flight to Istanbul made an emergency landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after a bird strike damaged its second engine shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, carrying 280 passengers and 11 crew members, experienced severe engine vibration but landed safely. All passengers have been accommodated in nearby hotels while the grounded plane undergoes repairs.READ FULL
Scientists Reveal Most And Least Satisfying Jobs In The World
Estonian researchers analyzing data from 59,000 people across 263 occupations found that clergy, medical professionals, writers, and special-needs teachers reported highest job satisfaction. Security guards, waiters, sales workers, and survey interviewers ranked lowest. Surprisingly, income and prestige showed little correlation with satisfaction. Jobs offering independence and a sense of achievement proved most fulfilling, while highly structured, high-responsibility positions often led to lower satisfaction.READ FULL
Accident Sparks Mob Attack In Meghalaya, 15 Trucks Set On Fire
A cement truck fatally struck a pickup driver in Meghalaya’s Lumshnong, triggering violent mob retaliation. After the truck driver fled, approximately 300 armed locals stormed the cement company, torching 15 trucks and damaging property. The mob blocked firefighters and attacked police before additional forces restored order. Authorities have heightened security in the area and launched an investigation into the incident.READ FULL
US Open Venue To Get $800 Million Facelift: Officials
The USTA announced an $800 million renovation of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, marking the largest investment in US Open history. Plans include reconfiguring Arthur Ashe Stadium to increase lower-level seating from 3,000 to 5,000 and building a new player performance center. The privately-funded renovations have begun and will be completed by 2027 without disrupting upcoming tournaments.READ FULL
Key Accused In Murder Case Attacked Inside Karnataka Jail
A fight erupted at Mangaluru District Jail when inmates began “aggressively staring” at each other. Noushad, prime accused in Hindutva activist Suhas Shetty’s murder, sustained a leg injury. Inmates threw cement blocks and damaged a glass door. Noushad is among 11 arrested for Shetty’s May 1 killing. Both men have criminal histories, with Shetty linked to the 2022 murder of Mohammed Fazil.READ FULL
17-year-old Bangladeshi hacks NASA; receives appreciation letter
Md Shariar Shanaz Shuvon, a 17-year-old ethical hacker from Bangladesh, has identified a critical security vulnerability in NASA’s cybersecurity infrastructure. The self-taught cybersecurity expert, currently studying at Malaysia’s University of Cyberjaya, discovered the privacy-related bug on June 11, 2024. NASA acknowledged his contribution with an official letter of appreciation. Shuvon has previously identified vulnerabilities in companies like Sony and Meta.READ FULL
Biman announces suspension of Dhaka-Narita flight from July 1
Biman Bangladesh Airlines will suspend its Dhaka-Narita service from July 1, just nine months after resuming the route following a 17-year hiatus. The national carrier cited Hajj operations, aircraft shortage, and financial concerns for the decision. Passengers with tickets after July 1 will receive full refunds. Industry insiders suggest the route, which operated three weekly flights on Dreamliner aircraft, was reinstated without proper commercial viability assessment.READ FULL
Pedro Pascal slams Trump-era immigration policy at Cannes, recalls refugee roots
During the Cannes press conference for “Eddington,” Pedro Pascal made a personal political statement about Trump’s America. The actor shared his family’s experience fleeing Chile’s dictatorship and emphasized storytelling as resistance against fear-driven politics. His comments come as the US reinstates stricter immigration policies, including a voluntary return program offering $1,000 to undocumented migrants.READ FULL
Shakib touches down in Pakistan to boost Qalandars’ PSL hopes
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has arrived in Islamabad to join Lahore Qalandars for their must-win Pakistan Super League match against Peshawar Zalmi on May 18. The 37-year-old returns to competitive cricket after a six-month break, joining Sri Lankans Kusal Perera and Bhanuka Rajapaksa as late reinforcements. Shakib, replacing injured Daryl Mitchell, received an NOC from Bangladesh Cricket Board for this crucial playoff-determining match.READ FULL
Lux Superstar returns after seven-year hiatus
Bangladesh’s popular talent competition Lux Channel i Superstar is returning after a seven-year break, with registration now open for women aged 18-27. The show, which launched careers of celebrities like Mehazabien Chowdhury and Bidya Sinha Mim, has added content creation skills to its judging criteria. Actress Jaya Ahsan, former winner Mehazabien, and filmmaker Raihan Rafi will lead this season’s revamped format.READ FULL
Real Madrid sign Huijsen for £50 million
Real Madrid has acquired Spain defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth after triggering his £50 million release clause. The 20-year-old center-back, who joined Bournemouth from Juventus last year for £12.8 million, has signed a five-year contract until 2030. The Netherlands-born defender will join Madrid’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in June. This defensive reinforcement comes after Madrid’s disappointing season without major trophies.READ FULL
Shammo murder: Three placed on six-day remand
A Dhaka court has placed three suspects on six-day remand each for the murder of Dhaka University student Shahriar Alam Shammo. Tamim Hawlader, Samrat Mallic, and Palash Sardar were ordered into custody despite claiming innocence. Shammo, a Chhatra Dal leader, was fatally stabbed on May 13 at Suhrawardy Udyan following a motorcycle collision and altercation. The investigation continues with police seeking information from the accused.READ FULL
Russia, China Sign Agreement To Build Nuclear Power Station On Moon
China and Russia have signed a cooperation agreement to build an automated nuclear power station on the Moon by 2035. The facility will support the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) planned near the lunar south pole. This announcement comes as NASA faces potential budget cuts affecting its lunar Gateway project. The ILRS includes participation from multiple countries and will combine uncrewed operations with occasional human missions.READ FULL
Gujarat Minister’s Son Arrested In Rs 71 Crore Rural Jobs Scheme Scam: Cops
Balvant Khabad, son of Gujarat Minister Bachubhai Khabad, was arrested for involvement in a ₹71 crore MGNREGA fraud. The scam involved 35 agencies receiving payments for incomplete or non-existent work between 2021-2024. Former Taluka Development Officer Darshan Patel was also arrested, bringing total arrests to seven. Investigations continue into the misappropriation of funds meant for rural development projects in Dahod district.READ FULL
South Korea’s ex-president Yoon leaves party ahead of snap election
Impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol has quit South Korea’s ruling People Power Party ahead of June 3 snap elections triggered by his martial law controversy. Currently facing trial for insurrection, Yoon urged support for PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo, who trails opposition leader Lee Jae-myung by 22 points in polls. Yoon claimed his departure was to protect “liberal democracy” while opponents called him “shameless” for destroying those very values.READ FULL
Paresh Rawal confirms exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has confirmed his departure from “Hera Pheri 3” due to creative differences, shocking fans of the iconic comedy franchise. Many have expressed disappointment online, with some calling for the film’s cancellation. Despite feeling “suffocated” by his Babu Rao character, Rawal maintains a busy schedule with upcoming projects including “Bhooth Bangla” and “Welcome to the Jungle.”READ FULL
Trump: India has offered US a trade deal with no tariffs
US President Donald Trump stated Thursday that India has proposed a trade deal with “no tariffs” on US goods. The announcement comes as New Delhi attempts to negotiate an agreement during the 90-day pause on tariff hikes that Trump announced on April 9. India, which currently enjoys a $45.7 billion trade surplus with the US, is America’s largest trading partner with bilateral trade reaching $129 billion in 2024.READ FULL
Shammo murder: Students enforce strike, lock faculties demanding justice
Students Against Terrorism enforced a daylong strike at Dhaka University today, locking several faculty buildings to protest the killing of Chhatra Dal leader Shahriar Alam Shammo. Protesters demanded justice, called for the resignation of university officials, and planned a 4:00pm mass gathering. The coalition of student groups rejected the administration’s half-day mourning, criticizing authorities for their alleged indifference to student safety concerns.READ FULL
Novoair to resume flights from May 21
Novoair will restart operations on May 21 after temporarily suspending services since May 2. Managing Director Mofizur Rahman expressed gratitude for passenger support during the break and reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to safety and service quality. Tickets are now available through the company’s website, app, sales offices, and travel agencies.READ FULL
Bangladesh to get $720K for finishing seventh in WTC
Bangladesh will receive $720,000 for finishing seventh in the 2023-25 WTC cycle after recording their best performance with four wins. The ICC has significantly increased overall prize money, with the winner of the Australia vs South Africa final at Lord’s (June 11-15) collecting $3.6 million—more than double previous amounts. Finalists are looking forward to competing at cricket’s historic venue.READ FULL