United News of Bangladesh

More than 300 scholars, researchers and cultural figures from around 70 countries gathered in northwest China's ancient Silk Road city of Dunhuang this week to discuss how Chinese culture and ideas can help address some of the world's growing challenges. The Third World Conference of Sinologists, which concluded on Thursday, focused on the theme "Pooling Wisdom of Civilizations to Jointly Address Challenges of Our Times." Participants said increasing global conflicts, economic inequality and declining trust among nations have sparked renewed international interest in Chinese culture, philosophy and approaches to development. Among the attendees was German traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner Joel Mikael Walker, who has spent more than a decade studying in China. Speaking at the conference, he said Chinese philosophy had changed his understanding of the world. Walker said concepts such as yin and yang taught him that differences and conflicts do not always have to lead to confrontation and can instead be resolved through dialogue and balance. Many speakers noted that sinology, traditionally the study of Chinese language and culture, is increasingly moving beyond academic research and becoming part of everyday cultural exchanges between China and the rest of the world. The choice of Dunhuang as the venue carried special significance. Located on the ancient Silk Road, the city served for centuries as a meeting point for trade and cultural exchange between East and West. It is also home to the world-famous Mogao Grottoes, which contain hundreds of ancient caves, sculptures and murals dating back more than 1,600 years. Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome Wirtu said the Silk Road was not only a route for trading goods but also a channel for sharing ideas and cultures among different civilizations. Several participants pointed to a growing curiosity about China among younger generations, particularly in Europe and other Western countries. Ingar Solty said many young people are becoming interested in Chinese lifestyles, wellness practices and cultural traditions. Similar views were expressed by Sebastien Joseph Roland Perimony, who said more young Europeans now see China as a country associated with innovation, development and stability. Speakers also argued that Chinese philosophical traditions, shaped by thinkers such as Confucius and Lao Tzu, offer ideas that remain relevant in today's world, including harmony, respect, humility and coexistence. Mohamed Rasheed said these values could help address growing tensions and divisions across the globe.Wirtu said China's development model, which combines economic growth with social and cultural progress, could provide useful lessons for other developing countries seeking modernization. Meanwhile, Sira Abed Rego said international dialogue and cultural exchange are becoming increasingly important as geopolitical tensions and conflicts continue to rise. She said China has contributed to global cooperation by promoting multilateralism, mutual respect and trust among nations, adding that efforts to study languages, translate cultures and promote understanding help reduce barriers and support peace. Participants agreed that greater exchanges among civilizations and cultures remain essential to addressing shared global challenges and building a more peaceful future.

A simple daily walk may be one of the most powerful habits for long-term health, according to a US-based heart specialist. Jeremy London, a cardiovascular surgeon based in Savannah, Georgia, says walking regularly can strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation, reduce stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases. In a video shared on Instagram, London explains that even moderate walking can make a meaningful difference to overall health. “It’s super simple, but it’s really powerful,” he says. “It decreases cardiovascular risk, controls blood pressure, controls blood glucose, and helps control weight.” He notes that the benefits of walking increase with frequency and duration, but even small amounts of daily movement are effective in improving health outcomes. Key benefits of walking London highlights several health benefits linked to regular walking: Longevity: Walking is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. “More is better, but even modest amounts move the needle,” he says. Heart and metabolic health:Regular walking helps manage blood pressure, blood sugar levels and body weight, supporting overall heart and metabolic health. Brain health and mood:Walking is also linked to better mental well-being, including reduced stress, improved mood and a lower risk of cognitive decline. Beyond physical health:London also points to less measurable benefits, such as spending time outdoors and having space to think. “Some of the best ideas come during a walk,” he notes. Experts say walking remains one of the easiest and most accessible forms of exercise, offering benefits for both physical and mental health when done consistently. Source: NDTV

A fascinating ecological study has revealed that hyenas are playing an unexpected role in urban waste management in the Ethiopian city of Mekelle, where they help process nearly 5,000 tonnes of organic waste every year. The study, led by wildlife ecology expert Gidey Yirga, found that hyenas and other scavengers significantly reduce the city’s waste burden, contributing to cleaner surroundings and potentially lowering public health risks. According to the research, spotted hyenas account for about 90 percent of this natural waste-processing activity, consuming discarded organic material that would otherwise accumulate in urban areas. Dr Yirga told CNN that this system benefits both humans and animals, noting that scavengers feed on waste while helping remove materials that could otherwise spread disease, including anthrax and bovine tuberculosis. Public health experts say the role of scavengers in removing decomposing animal remains may help reduce exposure to dangerous pathogens such as Bacillus anthracis, Mycobacterium bovis, Salmonella, Clostridium and Brucella species. By quickly consuming carcasses, hyenas may also limit insect breeding, foul odours and environmental contamination, indirectly reducing the risk of disease transmission to livestock, wildlife and humans. Some experts also suggest there may be environmental benefits. Kapil Bhatia, founder of sustainable fashion brand UNIREC, noted that reducing organic waste in landfills could lower methane emissions, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. However, experts caution against viewing wildlife as a replacement for formal waste management systems. Medical professionals also warn that scavengers themselves can carry pathogens in saliva, faeces and fur, and increased human interaction with wild hyenas may raise the risk of bites or disease transmission. While the human–hyena relationship in Ethiopia presents a striking example of ecological balance, experts emphasise that it cannot replace structured urban waste management systems, which remain essential for long-term public health and environmental safety. #From Indian Express

As summer temperatures rise, people can escape the heat indoors, but garden plants have to endure it on their own. Many flowers struggle in extreme heat, becoming dry, weak or failing to bloom altogether. However, choosing the right plants can help gardens stay colourful and healthy even during long, dry spells. Container plants are usually the most vulnerable because they depend entirely on regular watering and nutrients. Even after a morning watering, pots can dry out quickly under strong sun. In contrast, well-established heat- and drought-resistant plants develop deeper roots, allowing them to access moisture from the soil and survive with less care. Gardeners have plenty of resilient flowering options to choose from. Coneflowers (Echinacea), hardy in zones 3–9, are among the most reliable summer bloomers once established. They require little maintenance after their first season and continue producing flowers throughout the hot months. Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) are equally tough and pair well in the same garden beds. Blanket flowers (Gaillardia) are known for their bright red, yellow and orange blooms that spread across garden beds, creating a vibrant “blanket” effect even in intense heat. Zinnias also perform well in hot conditions, although they can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew in humid weather. Moss rose (Portulaca) is a low-growing, drought-resistant plant with succulent-like leaves that store water, making it highly adaptable to dry heat. Other hardy options include stonecrop (Sedum), prickly pear cactus (Opuntia) and ice plant (Delosperma), though ice plant should be avoided in some regions where it is considered invasive. Lantanas are another strong performer, producing clusters of multicoloured flowers that attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. They bloom from late spring until frost and are valued for both beauty and pollinator support. Several other sun-loving plants also thrive in high temperatures. Petunias, including varieties such as Supertunia and Tidal Wave, are known for their resilience. Petchoas, a hybrid of petunias and calibrachoas, handle heat well but may need deeper watering during extreme conditions. Cosmos are light, airy plants with daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, white, orange and yellow. Sunflowers are naturally suited to full sun and require little introduction. Marigolds remain one of the most reliable summer flowers, available in shades of orange, yellow and copper-red, with newer cream-coloured varieties also emerging. A new compact African marigold variety called Lana Lace, featuring crisp cream blooms, is expected to reach garden centres in 2027.

Celebrated Indian fashion designer Manish Malhotra has reached a new milestone in his career with his upcoming debut at Paris Haute Couture Week on July 8, 2026, marking a significant step in showcasing Indian textiles and craftsmanship on the global stage. The designer announced the development on Instagram, with a press release confirming that this will be the first official appearance of the Manish Malhotra brand on the prestigious Paris couture calendar. The showcase will feature the house’s artistry, innovation and glamour, highlighting Indian couture on an international platform. At the Haute Couture Week, designers are set to present their fall/winter 2026–27 collections, bringing together leading names from global fashion. Over the years, Malhotra has been credited with redefining Bollywood costume design and elevating Indian craftsmanship into a global luxury language. His creations are widely known for intricate detailing and traditional techniques such as zardozi and chikankari. From red carpets to weddings, his designs have become a preferred choice among celebrities for their craftsmanship and exclusivity. The designer previously showcased Indian heritage on global platforms, including the Met Gala 2025 themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” where he presented a black sherwani with a cape featuring glass beadwork and gilded motifs. For his 2026 Met Gala appearance, he created a design inspired by Mumbai, describing it as a tribute to the city that shaped his artistic journey. The outfit reportedly took over 960 hours to complete and involved more than 50 artisans across Mumbai and Delhi. Fashion observers say anticipation is high for his Paris debut, which is expected to further highlight Indian design on the global couture stage. #From NDTV

Singer Kanak Dutta has made her playback singing debut in films through the upcoming movie ‘Dhaka 1205’. Her debut comes with the song ‘Hridoyer Jomine’, written and composed by Walid Ahmed, with music direction by Rubel Flying Kites, said a press release. Speaking about the opportunity, Kanak Dutta said, “Music has always been an inseparable part of my life. I have been singing for many years, but this is my first opportunity to perform a playback song for a film. Every singer dreams of becoming a playback artist, and through ‘Dhaka 1205’, that dream is finally coming true. I am grateful to the filmmaker for placing his trust in my voice.” Music director Rubel Flying Kites described ‘Hridoyer Jomine’ as a song that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.  “This is the kind of song that allows listeners not only to enjoy the music but also to visualize the entire story and emotion behind it. Kanak Dutta is a talented and humble artist. Her unique voice and willingness to take on creative challenges truly impressed me,” he said. Director Walid Ahmed noted that the production team had been searching for a singer who could convey not only the melody but also the emotional depth of the song. “ Kanak Dutta is already a familiar name among music lovers for her long-standing dedication to Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, folk music, classical music, and modern songs. Her entry into film playback singing marks a significant new chapter in her musical career. Beyond audio releases and live stage performances, her voice will now reach audiences on the big screen as well. Produced under the banner of Shadamata Entertainment, ‘Dhaka 1205’ stars Ashna Habib Bhabna and Rakib Hossain in the lead roles.

Museums are increasingly playing a vital role in connecting people with different civilizations, allowing visitors to explore the history, culture and traditions of distant countries without leaving their own cities. From ancient Cambodian artifacts in Beijing to royal treasures from Kuwait in northwest China, museums across the country are attracting growing numbers of visitors eager to learn about other cultures and gain deeper cultural experiences. At the Meet You Museum in Beijing’s 798 Art Zone, an exhibition featuring 122 artifacts from the National Museum of Cambodia is giving Chinese visitors a rare opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the Angkor civilization. The exhibition, which opened on May 1, will continue until August 30. Li Duo, who has a master's degree in archaeology, said the exhibition offers a chance to closely experience another great civilization and better understand its history and achievements. “Being able to encounter another major civilization without traveling abroad shows the true value of museums,” she said. The exhibition combines historical artifacts with modern technology. According to Wang Haixuan, vice president of the Beijing Zhongchuang Tourism & Culture Group, digital displays recreate the engineering wonders of Angkor Wat, while interactive systems allow visitors to engage with characters from ancient myths. The museum has also organized exhibitions on other ancient civilizations, including a popular Egyptian exhibition last year. “Our aim is to provide opportunities for people to learn about cultures from around the world,” Wang said, adding that such exhibitions are especially popular among young people, families and museum enthusiasts. He described museums as bridges linking the past with the present and connecting China with the wider world through cultural exchange and dialogue. According to China's National Cultural Heritage Administration, the country had 7,188 registered museums by the end of 2025, with more than 91 percent offering free admission. Together, they welcomed around 1.56 billion visits last year. Across China, both public and private museums are increasingly hosting international exhibitions, bringing global cultures closer to domestic audiences. At the Gansu Provincial Museum in Lanzhou, visitors can explore "Golden Dust of Time: Exhibition of the Royal Collection From Kuwait," which features 130 groups of artifacts from the Kuwaiti royal collection, including gold ornaments, sculptures and ceremonial vessels. Liu Chunxia, a tourist from Guangzhou, said the exhibition helped her gain a deeper understanding of Kuwaiti history and culture despite never having visited the country. “These artifacts show the artistic skills, beliefs and lifestyles of people who lived thousands of years ago,” she said. Experts say the growing popularity of such exhibitions reflects a rising demand among Chinese visitors for cultural and educational experiences as living standards improve. Ban Rui, director of the Gansu Provincial Museum, said museums are evolving from institutions focused mainly on local history into platforms that encourage exchanges between civilizations. Organizing international exhibitions often involves high costs and complex logistics, including transportation, insurance and promotion. To overcome these challenges, many museums are increasingly working with state-owned enterprises and private-sector partners to expand access to overseas exhibitions. This year alone, Chinese museums have hosted exhibitions from countries including Italy, the Czech Republic, Syria, Britain, Greece and Kuwait. Shanghai is also preparing to launch a major exhibition titled "Ancient Civilizations of the Americas" in July. The 16-month exhibition at the Shanghai Museum will showcase the history and culture of ancient American civilizations and continue the museum’s efforts to introduce world cultures to Chinese audiences. At the same time, Chinese cultural heritage is reaching wider international audiences. The culture of Dunhuang, famous for its historic Mogao Grottoes, has become an important part of China's cultural exchanges abroad. Through digital technology, reconstructed caves and immersive exhibitions, audiences in countries such as France have been able to experience the beauty of Dunhuang's art and history. Chai Qilin of the Dunhuang Academy said overseas visitors have shown strong interest in Chinese cultural exhibitions and often express a desire to see more similar events. “These exhibitions help people gain a deeper and more direct understanding of Chinese culture,” he said. The Shanxi Museum has also expanded its international presence, partnering with museums in countries including the United States, Australia, Russia, France, Greece and Mexico since 2012. According to Zhang Huiguo, deputy director of the museum, ancient Chinese bronze and jade artifacts have attracted significant attention abroad because of their unique craftsmanship and cultural significance. The museum also uses interactive displays and immersive technologies to explain traditional Chinese architectural techniques and ancient bronze-making methods, making Chinese culture more accessible to international audiences. In Mexico, museum experts highlighted similarities and differences between traditional Chinese silver craftsmanship and local silver-making traditions, helping visitors better understand both cultures. Zhang said China's growing international influence has helped increase global interest in Chinese culture, from traditional Hanfu clothing and Chinese cuisine to exhibitions showcasing the country's long history and cultural heritage. “International exhibitions are not only about promoting cultural diversity,” he said. “They are also about strengthening cultural connections and people-to-people exchanges around the world.”

A growing number of young people in China are embracing traditional culture by dressing up as ancient emperors, empresses and princesses while visiting Beijing’s historic landmarks, creating a booming business for costume and makeup studios around the Forbidden City. Among those benefiting from the trend is makeup artist Chen Jiao, whose job is to transform visitors into figures from imperial China. She is one of hundreds of stylists working near the Forbidden City, the former home of Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Every day, visitors arrive at studios to wear elaborate traditional outfits decorated with phoenix patterns and accessorized with jade, pearls and other ornaments inspired by royal fashion. Their makeup is carefully applied and their hairstyles recreated to match the period. The experience typically costs around 300 yuan (about $45), although premium packages can cost more than 1,000 yuan ($150). After getting dressed, many visitors head to the walls, gates and moat surrounding the Forbidden City to take photos and videos for social media. While some fully embrace the historical look, others mix traditional costumes with modern accessories such as sneakers, sunglasses and bubble tea. Chen said demand is especially high during public holidays and weekends. She recently started work at 6 a.m. and styled around 24 customers in a single day. "There is hardly an off-season," she said, noting that business only slows briefly when the Forbidden City is closed. The trend reflects a broader interest among Chinese youth in immersive cultural experiences and traditional clothing inspired by the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Ming dynasty ruled China for more than 270 years and built the Forbidden City, while the Qing dynasty, China's last imperial dynasty, ended in 1912, bringing more than 2,000 years of imperial rule to a close. Many tourists say wearing period costumes enhances their experience at historical sites. Chen Xiao, a university student from Shandong province, travelled overnight to Beijing during the recent Qingming holiday and chose to wear a pink outfit associated with a Qing dynasty princess. "I feel that when you visit a historical place, it's nice to wear something that matches the setting," she said. The popularity of the trend has fueled rapid growth in the costume-styling industry. Local media reports that a building housing Chen Jiao’s studio had only a few such businesses in 2020, but now hosts more than 100. Cai Zehong, founder of Hanfu Beijing, said many young people are becoming interested in traditional Chinese clothing as they learn more about the country's cultural heritage. He said historical costume dramas, which have long been popular in China, have also helped drive interest in traditional fashion. Chen Xiao acknowledged that television dramas influenced her interest. "I've watched many historical dramas, and they've definitely shaped my interest. Recently, I've become particularly fascinated by Qing dynasty history," she said. Another visitor, Liu Ruitong from Hebei province, selected a black Ming-style outfit for her photoshoot. She said she liked the costume's elegant appearance and felt its dark color complemented both the Forbidden City and traditional Chinese scenery.

While the United Arab Emirates is known for its dazzling skylines and brightly lit cities, one remote desert area is helping residents reconnect with the night sky. The Al Quaa Desert, located about 100 kilometers southeast of Abu Dhabi, has emerged as one of the country's darkest locations, offering visitors a rare chance to view the Milky Way with the naked eye. Volunteers from the Dubai Astronomy Group regularly organize stargazing trips to the desert, where participants can observe stars, meteors and the galaxy far from the light pollution that dominates much of the UAE. According to a 2016 study, nearly all UAE residents are unable to see the Milky Way from their homes due to artificial lighting from roads, buildings and urban developments. The country ranks among the world's most light-polluted nations. During a recent excursion, families and astronomy enthusiasts gathered under the desert sky, using telescopes and mobile phones to capture images of the galaxy. As the moon set, the Milky Way gradually became visible, drawing excitement from participants. Dubai Astronomy Group General Manager Sheeraz Awan said stargazing helps people appreciate their place in the universe and reconnect with a tradition that once guided Bedouins across the desert. Despite growing urbanization, Al Quaa remains a haven for astronomy lovers, providing a glimpse of the night sky largely hidden from view in the UAE's modern cities.

China is strengthening conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkey, also known as the golden monkey, in Mount Fanjingshan, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in southwest Guizhou Province. Deep inside the misty mountains, veterinarian Yang Wei has spent the past six years closely working with the rare primates, building a strong bond while helping improve their chances of survival. The Guizhou snub-nosed monkey is a nationally protected species and is listed as critically endangered, with its entire wild population — estimated at around 850 — living in the Fanjingshan area. After completing his studies, Yang returned to his hometown in 2020 and now leads the monkey research centre under the Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve Administration. He said his goal is to protect the rare species found only in his region. At the centre, Yang and his team have improved care for rescued monkeys by designing enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitat. As a result, all rescued monkeys under their care have survived so far. The team has also enhanced nutrition and care for pregnant monkeys. While females in the wild usually give birth every three years, those under scientific care at the centre are now producing healthy offspring every two years. Currently, nine monkeys — including rescued and centre-born individuals — are being cared for at the facility. Protecting monkeys in the wild remains a major challenge, but authorities are increasingly using technology to monitor and safeguard them. Surveillance systems, infrared cameras, drones and regular patrols are being used to track their movements and prevent poaching. In addition, 14 ecological corridors have been built along roads around the mountain to ensure safe movement of monkeys between feeding and resting areas, while reducing human interference. These measures are already showing positive results. Increased monkey activity has been recorded, with cameras capturing groups moving freely through the forest and using the newly built corridors. Forest ranger Li Jiuhua said he has noticed a rise in the number of monkeys and other wildlife in recent years. He added that sightings of multiple monkey groups in a single day are becoming more common. China is also expanding similar conservation efforts nationwide to protect biodiversity and promote environmentally sustainable development. Thousands of ecological protection projects have been implemented in recent years, with more planned in the future. Locally, authorities have invested over 46 million yuan to build a new conservation centre for the monkeys. The facility, which began trial operations in April 2026, includes enclosures, a veterinary hospital, laboratories and food preparation areas. Officials say the new centre will focus on breeding, research and education, while also aiming to involve more experts and share conservation knowledge globally.