It Was An Experience Like No Other : Azra Mahmood



Azra Mahmood, Renowned Model And Fashion Choreographer
Azra Mahmood in Paris Fashion Week (left)

Azra Mahmood in Paris Fashion Week (left)

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Attending Mugler's Fall/Winter 2024-25 collection showcase at the iconic Lycée Carnot School during Paris Fashion Week was an extraordinary privilege for me and my husband, Dewan Muhammad Sajid Afzal. We were graciously invited by Thierry Mugler's VIP and Media Relations Lead, Aiyda Mehnaz, and it was an experience like no other.

Azra Mahmood's Husband Dewan Muhammad Sajid Afzal

Before delving into the show itself, let's appreciate the historical significance of the Lycée Carnot School, established in 1869. This esteemed institution has nurtured notable figures such as former French President Jacques Chirac, World Trade Organization President Pascal Lamy, theologian Alexander Schiemann, and even members of the renowned electronic music group Daft Punk. The school's architectural splendor provided a fitting backdrop for Mugler's captivating presentation. And standing in such a setting and watching a Mugler show at a major event like Paris Fashion Week is a completely different experience for me.

Mugler's fashion show

Knowing Mugler's penchant for bold experimentation with solid colors, particularly shades of black, my husband and I opted for attire reflecting this aesthetic. I adorned a newly designed saree by the House of Ahmed, featuring a leather blouse with zardozi embroidered sleeves and intricate beadwork throughout. Meanwhile, Sajid, also the CEO of Shanta Lifestyle, donned a striking black silk and velvet tuxedo designed by Mehruz Munir of Zurhem, adorned with glamorous beading on the velvet portion.

Mugler's fashion show unfolded as a theatrical spectacle, deviating from conventional runway presentations. Forty-one models graced the catwalk, initially emerging in groups as curtains gradually unveiled the majestic hall of the Lycée Carnot School. Mugler's signature bold and feminine style shone through, highlighted by the predominant use of black, complemented by accents of red and unexpected prints.

Azra Mahmood

The show's culmination saw all models returning to the runway, unveiling the backstage to the audience—a poignant gesture honoring the often-overlooked contributors behind the scenes. The seamless execution of the event captured everyone's attention, transcending the presence of VIPs and celebrities in the front row, a testament to Mugler's captivating vision.

The presence of celebrities such as Mia Khalifa, Brooklyn Beckham, Nicola Peltz, and Korean superstar Junghua further elevated the ambiance of the event. For me, attending wasn't just about witnessing fashion; it was an opportunity to gain insight into the intricacies of such grand productions and how they differ from those in my home country.

brooklyn beckham and nichola peltz

Mugler's ability to maintain an aura of mystery without overt branding was striking. The punctuality of the show, starting and ending precisely on time, underscored a level of professionalism often overlooked by some of our designers.

Fashion TV (FTV) served as my gateway into the realm of fashion, captivating me with its coverage of Fashion Week events. FTV, alongside Paris Fashion Week, has been instrumental in shaping my journey, allowing me to foster beauty, innovation, and dreams. Embarking on my choreography career in 2004, the culmination of two decades has brought me to the pinnacle of attending such prestigious events as a spectator.

Mugler's fashion show

The sensation of experiencing Fashion Week in person is incomparable, evoking a profound sense of fulfillment and transformation. Reflecting on the quality of our work, I find reassurance in the fact that we stand on par with international standards. Contemplating the possibility of stepping away from my craft, I'm filled with a sense of contentment, recognizing the strides we've made. Our modeling industry has seen notable improvements, even if there's a slight lag in technical aspects, it's marginal in comparison.

This realization fuels my resolve to continue pushing boundaries and refining our craft. The journey from spectator to participant has imbued me with a deep appreciation for the artistry and dedication that underpin the fashion world. As I navigate this landscape, I carry with me the aspiration to perpetuate excellence and inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Azra Mahmood

In the quiet moments after the show, overwhelmed by emotion, I realized the profound impact of being present at such a significant event. It was a deeply inspiring experience, reaffirming my commitment to raising the standards of my country's fashion industry to global acclaim. This satisfaction resonates deeply within me, propelling me forward with renewed vigor and purpose.

Band star Shafin Ahmed passes away



News Desk, Barta24.com
Band star Shafin Ahmed passes away

Band star Shafin Ahmed passes away

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Popular musician Shafin Ahmed passed away. Musician's brother Hamin Ahmed confirmed the matter to the media.

Meanwhile, in a post on social media, actor Ziaul Farooq Apurba wrote, 'Bangladesh band star Shafin Ahmed passed away while undergoing treatment in a hospital in Virginia. May Allah grant him Jannat.

The musician's brother Hamin Ahmed told the media, "Shafin had a massive heart attack." On July 20 he had a concert in Virginia. Shafin fell ill before the show. He canceled the show. He was admitted to the hospital that day. After that, when his various organs failed, he was taken on life support. After that, he could not be returned.

Shafin Ahmed's mother is Nazrul Sangeet superstar Feroza Begum and father is composer Kamal Dasgupta. Being born in this family, Shafin grew up in music from childhood. Just as he sometimes learned high-pitched music from his father, he also learned Nazrul music from his mother. After that due to study abroad he came in contact with the West and started his band music.

In 1979, one of the most popular bands in Bangladesh, 'Miles', was formed a few days after Shafin and Hamin joined it. After that, they presented many popular songs from Bangladesh. Shafin has many popular songs outside the band. 

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After the reform of the quota I will again stand by the government: Mehzabeen



Masid Ron, Senior Newsroom Editor, Barta24.com Dhaka:
Mehzabeen Chowdhury

Mehzabeen Chowdhury

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Mehjabeen Chowdhury, the most popular actress of TV dramas, has also stood up against the ongoing violence against students with a strong voice. Highlighting the information of the Qur'an-Hadith today (Thursday) wrote a long text on the social handle. Mehjabeen Chowdhury's full text is presented here-

I have learned since childhood that family-society-state does not support raising hands on women. Our holy scriptures also never teach violence against women. It is said in the Holy Quran, "Be kind to women". It is said in the hadith, "The best of you are those who behave well with women".

But unfortunately, we have to see different pictures and shocking videos in the media or social media these days. Not one, not two, but countless of my sisters are being brutally attacked and bloodied. How cruel, what brutal! I will come to the topic of justice and injustice later, but I will say from my position: this violence against women cannot be accepted even on the pretext of the highest argument. 'No' means 'no'; not at all what did the students do? They were vocal about their rights. Quota reforms were demanded. So? Anyone can claim freedom in a democratic country. But raising hands on a woman, killing a promising young man like 'Abu Sayed' - does this fall under the level of civilization? Was there no other solution? Why do you have to shoot?

The situation may return to normal today or tomorrow. But the mother's chest is empty, the smile on the family's face is gone, can we fill that emptiness in exchange for something else? Not at all, history is a witness that no matter how great the power is, no one has ever achieved anything by overpowering the student society. So why this failed boom? We always cherish the great freedom war or our brave freedom fighters. We are proud that the brave freedom fighters sacrificed their lives to give us a free country. But in this country, one cannot express one's own feelings, one cannot demand rights, above all else, the identity of merit cannot be seen as the greatest, if you go against the wishes of the administration, you will be attacked and you will have to give your life prematurely - what is the dream of Bangladesh? Did you see our brave freedom fighters? I don't think so.

From rise in commodity prices, to question paper leaks to corruption - we remain silent on almost all issues. Even if the keeper becomes the eater, we sit in silence. Wait, maybe a solution will come. If not today, it will come in two days. On other issues we are not as vocal on social media. So why are you late? Why are common people like us condemning the action of the government regardless of party affiliation on the issue of quota reform? The reason is one; quota reform is the need of the hour. It is important to solve it as soon as possible. It should not be forgotten that we, the common people, clapped our hands with pride for many milestone achievements of the government including Metro Rail, Padma Bridge, Fly Over etc. I gave cheeky compliments. I joined social media. Surely, we will stand by the government again after the quota reform is done according to the demands of the students. I will cooperate with the government to solve all the problems of the country as a party. We will move the country forward together.

After all, students are the future of tomorrow. Mehjabeen Chowdhury appealed to the honorable Prime Minister and the Supreme Court to support their logical demands without suppressing them. I believe we will not be disappointed.

At the end of the post, the actress used the hashtag #SaveBangladeshiStudents. He added a collage of three photos of the ongoing movement.

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Salman was injured by physically joining the quota movement



Masid Ron, Senior Newsroom Editor, Barta24.com
Photo: Popular YouTuber Salman Muktadir has personally participated in the quota movement

Photo: Popular YouTuber Salman Muktadir has personally participated in the quota movement

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Popular YouTuber Salman Muktadir was the first showbiz star to take part in the quota movement. Meanwhile, a picture of the star wearing a mask has gone viral on social media. And without reading that film, Salman is getting great praise.

But a little while ago, another video of Salman has spread on social media. It is seen that some people are taking care of this star because he was attacked. He was slightly injured while physically participating in the quota movement.

A person posted that picture of Salman and wrote on Facebook, "Among the so-called popular figures, I saw only Salman Muktadir joining the movement directly on the field. Known to most as the 'rude boy'.

Salman Muktadir also posted on Facebook before joining the movement directly on the field. On July 16, Salman wrote on his Facebook, 'Is there any student who is infected or unable to enter the hall? I will take care of you. But it is impossible for me to filter through millions of messages or posts. So see if you have any mutual friends in my friend list and knock me.'

He also wrote, 'If you need a place to stay or you need medical care, I'm here. Just saw some videos where people can't enter their halls. If that's not enough, apologize again. I am truly heartbroken and embarrassed. I feel ashamed that I am really popular and not getting any help.' 

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Swastika's emotional status on the quota movement



Entertainment Desk, Barta24.com, Dhaka
Indian actress Swastika Mukherjee

Indian actress Swastika Mukherjee

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Students are protesting across the country demanding quota reforms in government jobs. Turbulent streets in one-point demand, YouTubers including filmmakers, actors and actresses have expressed solidarity with the protestors seeking quota reform. But this time the stars outside the country have also united on that issue. Recently, popular Indian actress Swastika Mukherjee opened her mouth on the quota issue.

In an emotional post on her Facebook account, the Indian actress wrote, 'I have not been in my country for almost a month. There is hardly any Third World news on US news channels. And I'm not much of a phone bug, so it was late to hear such bad news.

I went to Bangladesh a few months ago, I really wanted to go to Jahangirnagar University. Had the good fortune to go to art will be a memorable day of life. Every time I come, I can't go because of my busy schedule, my mother also wanted to go to Bangladesh, but she was not taken, but today I saw a video, the smoke of bullets. University students are affected. When the student age is over, Jahangirnagar and Jadavpur are very close to me. Kath Golap trees are also similar. The clouds in the sky are the same. Only today there is the smell of gunpowder.'

'The field is heavy with fog

Rootmarch fades to the horizon

Is it lying in the middle of the road?

I sit down and pick it up

Cut off your head, whale. '

'I have never seen such a hospitable nation, the invitation for food never ends, where else can I see such a beautiful display of language all over the road? Eyeglass wall writing? Perhaps it is possible for a nation to take the oath of liberation war.

Today, I'm feeling restless. I am also a mother of children. I hope Bangladesh will be calm. I am far away, I can only pray this.

Light from the source of darkness - that is our light... Let there be light... Let it be good for all.' 

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