Avenue T Volume 2 Issue 30

Dhaka Tribune | Saturday, December 6, 2014 | Volume 2, Issue 30

For your eyes only

Contents

AvenueT inside...

5

Hilux in 2014

Editor’s note 9

Nothing to hide

Editor

Zafar Sobhan

Executive Editor

Shahriar Karim

Managing Editor

Jahangir Hyder

Magazine Editor

Sabrina Fatma Ahmad

Asst Magazine Editor

Mahmood Hossain

Avenue T team

Khan N Moushumi N Anita Amreen Sabah Rahman Tausif Sanzum Sabiha Akond Rupa

122

A date with Urban Truth

16

Revisit Sundarbans

Contributors

Agony Aunt Tahsin Momin Dina Sobhan

Photography

Sabiha Akond Rupa

Graphics

Alamgir Hossain Md Mahbub Alam

Colour specialist

Shekhar Mondal

Production

2 TUNED Sway with the classics 3 TRY OUT Not just lemonade 4 TECH Nokia’s fantastic new tablet 5 WHEELS 2014 Toyota Hilux 6 TELL Back to romance 8 TUCKED IN Hotel secrets 9 HEALTH Revealing details 10 TRIAL ROOM Jennifer Farrell

12 TRENDING Style challenge 13 Tailored Style secrets 14 TEMPT Seven beauty don’ts 15 TICKET Noksha Furniture 16 TRAVELOGUE Sundarbans 18 TANTALISE Lemon sweet treat 20 NEWS

Dear Readers, We at Avenue T believe sharing is caring, and that’s why we’ve decided to put together an issue packed with gossip, tips, tricks, and secrets to help spice up your Saturday. Start with selected moments from last week’s Bengal Music Festival in Tuned, for a quick moment of nostalgia. On Tryout, we sing praises of the multitasking properties of the lemon, and share hacks on everything from stain removal to weight loss. How do you deal with someone else’s brats? We’ve got it covered on Tact. This week’s Tucked In is our juiciest ever, with staff spilling the beans on the hospitality industry, so don’t miss it. Sometimes secrets are bad for health. Don’t believe us? Check out Take Care and see for yourself. We’re also excited to announce our first ever Style Challenge on Trending, featuring Urban Truth. Finally, join us on Trial Room for a sit-down with the brains behind CriticaLink, the first ever First Responder service in the city.

Here’s wishing you a great week ahead.

Sabrina Fatma Ahmad Editor, Avenue T

Masum Billah

Circulation

Masud Kabir Pavel

Contact us

avenuet@dhakatribune.com www.dhakatribune.com

10

A real hero

This week There are life hacks and plenty of secrets to be shared, all in the name of a better lifestyle.

AVE N U E T SATU R DAY, de c emb er 6, 20 1 4

2 | Tuned event

ITC SRA

Classical Music Festival | Tausif Sanzum

Dec 7

Dhaka Apparel Summit

Venue: Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC)

Dec 9

Winter Fair 2014 Venue: Hotel Abakash

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

The biggest bonanza for classical music in the world in terms of the maestros performing under a single venue returned this year. Held from November 27 December 1 at Army Stadium, the event was a melodious adda between the artistes and an audience of the 50 thousand music enthusiasts. Vidushi Malavika Sarukkai, Vidushi Girija devi, Guru Karaikudi Mani, Aruna Saira,, Pandit Kushal Das, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia were only a handful of the long list of musical geniuses present this year.

Photos: Courtesy

Try Out |

Photo: Big Stock

diy

3

uses of lemons All souring-ly easy

Spotted an annoying little stain on your newly bought tableware while you’re down with a winter cold? Don’t stress, lemons can fix them all!

Addicted to your daily dose of caffeine especially to get your motor running in the morning?

But this stimulant may damage your endocrine system (a system that regulates your hormonal production), increasing your cortisol levels that are responsible for premature ageing. Lemon juice is a safer bet – it will provide you with a stream of long lasting energy, without the side effects.

Anti-depressant

Lemon juice is a natural antidepressant. It helps you destress while enhancing your moods, improving your focus and concentration. If you have depression, start drinking some lemon juice.

Staying fit

Lemons make you slim! Yup, you read that right. Lemons have a type of fibre called pectin and it helps fight hunger pangs. Studies show that people who incorporate a few glasses of lemon juice in

their diet everyday lose weight faster.

Photo: Big Stock

A substitute for coffee

| Khan N Moushumi

The cold war

You may just find yourself with a nasty cold since winter is here. If you have an achy, sore throat, just add a slice of lemon and a spoonful of honey to a cup of tea and start drinking. Alternatively, sprinkle salt and black pepper on a slice of lemon and suck on it for relief.

Bugs at bay

Mosquitoes and insects aren’t a big fan of the acidic smell of lemons.

You could store some lemon juice in a bottle and spray it on your countertop to keep the bugs at bay.

Beauty benefits

Lemons also have a number of beauty benefits. Gently rub a slice on your face for that instant glow or even whiten and strengthen your nails with it. Soak your nails in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil for a few minutes and let its magic work on those talons.

Tip Instead of regular ice cubes, why not deepfreeze some lemon juice that you could later add to your drink?

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4 | Tech Space in the air

Photo: Big Stock

Troubleshoot

| Mahmood Hossain

There are plenty of ways to keep your digital data safe and away from prying eyes, and one of those important steps happens to be in online storage. While the specs on new devices may be impressive it doesn’t mean they are perfect.

One way or another, something can go wrong. The last thing you want is to lose 500-gigs of data that you hold dearly. You can always resort to backing your data up in an external hard drive, which we recommend highly, but it becomes a hassle hooking up your hard drive constantly.

iCloud Drive

Apple provides users with up to 5GB free space. If you want additional storage, you’ll have to pay extra, unfortunately. Whether you want to pay a monthly fee for more storage is completely up to you.

OneDrive

This is Microsoft’s version of online storage and they are slightly more generous on free storage, giving you 15GB. In addition, they give you a chance to extend the storage to an extra 8GB. First, you can upload and backup your photos through the mobile app, which hands you 3GB. The other 5GB is earned by getting 10 friends to sign up to the service.

OneDrive offers you 500MB for a single sign-up.

Amazon Cloud Drive

gadgets

Nokia’s new era

Now under Microsoft, a head to head battle was bound to happen

| Mahmood Hossain Just recently, after the purchase of Nokia by Microsoft for $7.2 billion, the brand has released an attention grabbing device that looks like an iPad Mini clone. The new Nokia N1, which releases in early 2015, is frighteningly similar to the latest iPad Mini 3. They’ve gone so far as to actually mimicking Apple’s style of layout on the device’s personal web page (n1.nokia.com). The build and design are nearly identical, except of course it runs on Android. This might become, with the hype aside, the bestselling Android small tablet in history.

Design

The N1 has the same 7.9-inch screen like the Mini 3, along with the exact 2048x1536 resolution. It doesn’t stop there.

The placement of the cameras, speakers, and what looks like a lightning port at the bottom is actually

You’ll only get 2GB free with this popular mobile app, but it does allow you to earn more storage through certain promotions and offers with certain leading mobile brands like Samsung or HTC. Share your troubleshooting problems, write to us at avenuet@dhakatribune.com

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

The stock version of the tablet will be running the Android 5.0 Lollipop.

Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.4GHz quad-core Intel Atom Z3580 processor (64bit), 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. The company is also introducing the Z Launcher. This touchfeature will let you write out a single letter which results in finding certain contacts and apps that begin with that letter. The N1 site also reveals a 5300mAh rechargeable lithium polymer battery.

And to add more salt to the wound, they will be selling this clever little device for $249 in China. From there, they are off to Russia and select European countries, followed by the rest of the world. Now, we just wait and see if this becomes a favourite for Android users. Surely, it’s already a worthy competitor to the iPad Mini 3.

Watch your back, Apple.

Numbers in groups An advance calculator and a different way we deal with groups

| Mahmood Hossain

Google Drive

Dropbox

Features

apps

Here’s another 5GB free offer. The basic service can be significantly changed if you sign up for their Amazon Prime service. This allows you to have unlimited cloud storage.

Google finds themselves as generous as OneDrive with 15GB of storage.

However, this is connected to your Gmail account, which can become an issue if you plan on having heavy storage.

a reversible type-C USB port (MicroUSB 2.0). But Nokia wanted to add a bit more sugar to the sweet treat. It actually went further and improved on the design, something the iPad Mini lacks. Unlike the Mini 3, the N1 is thinner (6.9mm thick) and lighter (318-grams). It also has a fullylaminated display. The rear camera boasts an 8-megapixel camera and a 5-megapixel camera in the front, with 1080p recording.

Facebook Groups (iOS & Android) There seems to be an app for every feature Facebook possesses. This time around, it’s a wonderful reimagining of how we interact in groups on social media. The concept is nothing new, but the communications platform has a new face. Posting updates, links and photos, along with discussing plans and collaborations has actually become an enjoyable task. Subtle changes and additions to this feature, now an application, let you create and start a group for pretty much anything.

Starting a group for your family get-togethers, after-work hangouts,

or simply sharing recipes with other foodies can all be made with Facebook Groups. The UI and overall design are pleasing to the eye, displaying the signature chat bubbles and images in a colourful, fantastic fashion. To add a little more fun, the app lets you connect with other users all over the world. The community gets larger, while you take part in group chats and continue your inquiry over subjects of your liking.

PhotoMath (iOS, Windows Phone, soon to be on Android) For most writers, like the folks at Avenue T, math is kryptonite. We absolutely dislike it with a passion.

And even though we no longer deal with complex formulas, we can understand the frustrations of

individuals who deal with math.

PhotoMath is a brilliant application that can scan an image taken from your phone’s camera and instantly solve the mathematical expressions.

Microblink, the developers, make it very clear that this app isn’t about cheating. You’ll be able to see the entire problem broken down, step by step.

The answers don’t come easy so it’s essential to understand how the problem has been solved. So far the app covers arithmetic expressions, fractions and decimals, powers and roots, simple linear equations, and it continues to add more and more as the app matures.

Tires | wheels

Road rage

2014 Toyota Hilux

The CNG chronicles

A workhorse that is unapologetically manly and practically indestructible

| Tahsin Momin

Light on bling but big on practicality, the 2014 Toyota Hilux is powerful and yet fuel efficient. With the kind of power and ability to haul large cargo, it handles more than you can imagine. In addition to its inherent strengths, the elegant bonnet design and soft contours set it apart from the conventional pick-up trucks.

Navana Toyota 3S Center 205-207, Tejgaon Industrial Area Dhaka-1208 Phone: 880-2-9892911, 880-2-9893048, 880-2-9851212 haul load, which it does with ease. The torque from the engine is more than enough to haul its capacity of 2,500kg payload and an additional 1,000kg of passenger load. The five-speed manual transmission and the limited slipdifferential make it an ideal off-roader as well. Be warned however, that the engine noise gets quite disturbing when you push it hard.

The new Hilux has gone through slight changes from its earlier version. It has a black coloured front grille. It has bold chrome accent surrounding the three black coloured bars. The front headlights are attached to the sides of the grille.

Accompanying the robust design is the 15-inch wheels specially equipped with all season tyres. Moreover, the bed cargo on this Hilux truck has adequate space for a 2500kg payload.

Interestingly enough, the side view mirrors and the door handles on the Hilux are of the same colour as the body.

Safety

Interior

Performance

Powering the Hilux is a 2.5-litre fourcylinder diesel engine with a maximum power output of 142HP and 250Nm of torque, associating to a 0-62mph time of 12.5-seconds, but then again it was never meant for racing, it was built to

| Tausif Sanzum

Available at:

Exterior

The interior of the Hilux has been updated and it looks completely different from the earlier models. The cabin is now roomy and welcoming.

The interior trimmings have a glossy top part and a matt finished lower part.

The steering wheel now comes with the option to mount audio controls.

The seats are covered with high quality fabric that makes them very comfy. In fact, the materials that are used inside this truck are of immaculate quality.

The gauges are very easy to read.

However, there is a major drawback to the truck - its positioning of the controls on the dash, which can’t be accessed easily while driving.

5

AUTO CORRECT

The 2014 Toyota Hilux includes a stability control system along with a limited slip-differential for better traction both on and off road. It also gets the antilock brake assist system.

There are additional safety features like the trailer sway control and dual front airbags.

Overall, the 2014 Toyota Hilux is an efficient truck with good safety features and a strong body structure to keep you safe and secure. Its car like interior provides unmatched comfort and convenience, while the spacious cargo bed gives abundance of luggage space.

How do you know if the car’s ABS is working?

If you have ABS, it will only feel different from ordinary brakes when you’re braking hard (ie, “panic” or “emergency” stop). During ordinary braking, ABS or not, the brakes will respond in the same way.

When you commence hard braking, the anti-lock braking system engages itself. During this period, you will experience either rapid pulsations or vibrations of the brake pedal; it may feel like the brakes are pushing back at you or the pedal may suddenly drop.

The valves in the ABS controller may also make a “grinding” or “buzzing” noise. These are signs that the ABS is working.

One way to test your ABS is to drive your car, fairly slowly, on loose gravel (without any people or traffic), and apply the brakes hard. If you don’t get any of the above mentioned signs, then it isn’t working.

This familiar exchange occurs every time you rent a CNG. The CNG driver pleads, “Mama, if the traffic sergeant stops us, please say we are travelling as per the metre!”

We end up becoming part of this small lie so that we can reach our destination without further ado.

However, if we observe carefully, we are part of a giant web of lies and poverty.

Most CNG drivers rent their vehicles for a certain time limit from a private owner. They pay them around Tk800 while returning the vehicle at the end of their shift. On an average a CNG driver spends Tk300 to refill the gas tank on a regular basis. Added to this, he shells out around Tk150 on food and other expenditures while driving. At the end of the day he takes back around Tk500-Tk700 home.

It’s a petty amount for a family to survive on. In case we don’t tell that “golden lie” in front of the traffic authorities, they will force him to pay around Tk1,000 on the pretext of not confiscating his CNG. Thus we are placed in a moral dilemma.

It should also be noted that the metres in CNGs are not modified with the increase in the CNG cost.

Thus we would end up paying much less than the deserved amount if we follow the metre.

So who is responsible for making sure that the vehicles get new fare metres? Who is to be blamed when traffic officers force the drivers to bribe them in case a traffic related offence is committed? We all know the answer, so it’s not worth ranting about that, is it?

Got a peeve to share about the state of the city’s roads and traffic? Sends it to us at avenuet@dhakatribune.com, or post it on our Facebook wall.

AVE N U E T SATU R DAY, de c emb er 6, 20 1 4

6 | Tell letters to Mars

Bringing back the romance | Agony Aunt

Photo: Big Stock

has been acting very strange since the last few weeks. It seems to me as if she needs serious mental care. She gets all hysterical whenever she doesn’t get her way - which is quite often, since we live with our parents and my elder brother.

If her parents knew she was mentally unstable and neglected to mention that during her marriage, it wasn’t right. Do I divorce her? I really don’t want to go through the trouble of a divorce, but I don’t want to start my marriage with so many thorns in our way.

Q

My wife and I were married off by our parents a few years ago. In the beginning, I thought it was one of those very successful marriages you only hear about in movies. However, she

A

Something is bothering your wife, talk to her without blaming her. Tell her, “I know you are distressed and in pain.

I know you, you are a happy person.

But of late you seem to be different, please tell me what is bothering you and I will try to help you in every way.” You will have to approach her several times, she may not be able to talk to you immediately. Take your time, ask yourself how you could go from being in a wonderful marriage

into contemplating divorce. Even if marriage was a business transaction, you would not withdraw without finding out the problems and you’d still try to do something about it.

Marriage as far as I am concerned means love, understanding and supporting one another. Talk to her and after she has opened up to you, take her to the doctor for a visit. A ladies’ doctor with whom she can confide. Try everything before you give up.

Our Agony Aunt is a life coach and a relationship coach as well as a corporate and organisational consultant. AA lives and works in Bangladesh but travels extensively around the world to attend seminars and see her clients

Write us your problems and send them to agony.aunt@dhakatribune.com

Issues

Sharing responsibilities | Avenue T desk

Q

My father-in-law recently had a heart attack and has been bedridden ever since. My brother-in-law is older to my husband and recently got married to a 24-year-old woman.

She just graduated and remains home most of the time. On the other hand, my husband and I have full time jobs and remain extremely busy. When my father-in-law was in the hospital, we all took turns to do hospital duty.

However, now that he’s back at home my mother-in-law expects me to be home all day and indirectly gives me an earful when I’m not while my sister-in-law takes no responsibility just because she’s the new bride. My husband agrees with my views but can’t tell his mom anything. How do I make my mother-in-law lay off my back?

A

A touchy situation is in place. Your father-in-law just had a heart attack and your mother-in-law must be stressed out. In such a difficult

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

Aries (MAR 21-APR 19)

From the looks of how things might turn out this week, it is essential for you to start your day well. Just don’t wait too long to get things done.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 20)

Don’t be in a rush to dive into your daily chores; this week is all about taking some time out for yourself and finding peace in solace.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 20)

You will most likely spend the first half of the week enjoying the comfort of your home, but make sure you don’t slack off for too long.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) Starting your day with a positive attitude will give you much bliss and selfassurance, and that is something you could use for the busy week ahead.

Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22) situation, discussing or even arguing with your mother-in-law isn’t advisable. Try to ask your husband to talk to his brother about taking up more responsibility or helping the family share these responsibilities.

Moreover, ask him to gently mention that perhaps his wife can help your mother-in-law out. Maybe your mother-in-law expects more from you since she feels that you are closer to her, try not to take her comments to heart. Allow your brother-in-law to initiate his wife into the household, and make it easier for your mother-inlaw to expect things from her too, not just you.

Your worldly problems will be more or less dealt with by the middle of the week, so try and focus on greater problems in the future.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)

Your week will start off with you feeling comfortable and satisfied with life. However, you may be feeling differently by the time the week ends.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)

This week is a good time for you to show good judgment in terms of your finances, work and personal life.

Horoscope

oroscope

Tell |

7

letters to Venus

No room for two | Avenue T desk

isn’t room in my mind for all that right now, and because of it, letting him go does not seem like such a bad idea after all, even though it will be the cruellest thing I ever did to anyone. I don’t know what to do. Help?

A

It sounds like the relationship has run its course, you got to know each other, liked each other, and after a while problems surfaced - totally normal.

But then when you felt more settled in the relationship, you began to see what is not perfect - again totally normal, there is nothing totally perfect

in people’s lives and thank goodness for it, otherwise life would be so boring and predictable.

However you’re finding the situation difficult. May be he lacks a backbone?

Whatever, this is the time to reconsider as you do not seem really engaged with him any longer; you’re just feeling sorry for him. Tell him you would like time to think about the relationship and you see yourself more like a friend than a girlfriend. If you break up, tell him it would be a good idea not see each other for a while and then you would be happy to have him as a friend.

Photo: Big Stock

Q

My boyfriend and I have been going out for quite a few months now, and since the past few weeks he has been going through a very rough time with his family. I have tried to be there for him as much as possible, but I have problems of my own to cater to as well – especially recently. I no longer have the patience to bear up with his mood swings and tantrums, and maybe it is because I don’t care for this relationship as much as I’d like to think. I am not sure. All I know is that I cannot single-handedly shoulder both our problems and at the same time I do want to be there for him. There just

tact

Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21)

One thing you’ll most likely achieve this week is the smoothing out of past disputes with friends and family.

Depending on your timing, it will most likely lead to a temporary truce or even a permanent end to many of your personal problems.

The Other People’s Children syndrome How to deal with annoying children especially if they’re not your own

| Dina Sobhan

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21)

You are most likely on your way to have some of your wishes granted this week if you act accordingly.

Even though you might feel like some material things are losing their significance in your life, keep in mind whatever is important to you.

CCapricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) It is possible that something good will happen to you in the first half of the week. It is important that you know that it might have a lot to do with the way you look at things.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 19)

Your taste preferences might change this week, and it should have a direct impact on your priorities. It is also possible for you to act impulsively and make decisions you might regret later.

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

Owing to your incurable optimism, you might expect comfort and stability at the same time. Don’t let the chaos mess with your judgment.

There is no better way to ruin a day than having to deal with bratty children, especially if they aren’t yours. Who hasn’t been victim to the non-stop screamer in an airplane, whose parent puts on noise-cancelling headphones and simply ignores him? Or, how many times have you gone to a restaurant for a quiet, romantic dinner only to have bread rolls thrown at you by the bored toddler sitting at the next table? And is it possible to go to the store without witnessing a meltdown because some spoiled child cannot leave without a toy, or 10?

Of course, most parents cringe at the thought of children behaving this way, but oftentimes they are blind to their own children’s behaviour.

Especially in Dhaka, where 99% of the wealthy have nannies taking care of their children, bad behaviour is becoming an epidemic. In the old days, nannies and governesses were allowed to discipline children and “parent” them, as it were. The way it works now is their caretakers take care of them, but their essential role is as a playmate and guard. They are certainly not allowed to scold children and impart knowledge of what is acceptable and what is not.

And with parents neglecting their roles more and more, either due to busy work lives or simply the new-age belief that children should be allowed to “express themselves” and be “free spirits,” the epidemic is growing.

While no parent likes to hear a bad word said against their children, sometimes it’s necessary to make them aware of the problem behaviour.

Now, how to go about doing that is the real challenge. First, be direct and honest and stick to the facts. Instead of saying, “Your child is a monster and should be locked up until he’s 18,” provide details of the troubling behaviour. “Sometime Adam bites Adnan when he doesn’t share his toys.” Or provide some gentle advice “Maybe next time Adam comes over, he can bring some of his toys so they don’t fight over the same ones.” If it is a stranger’s child that is behaving badly with yours, confront them.

Bullying, hitting, and other aggressive behaviours are not acceptable.

Whatever you do or say, however, be prepared for negative reactions.

Most parents respond with anger when they are confronted about their children. But if you remain defensive and avoid getting into an argument, you will cause them to reflect on what you have said and, hopefully, take the necessary steps to ensure it does not happen again.

Dina Sobhan is a free-lance writer, a part-time counsellor and a full-time mom

AVE N U E T SATU R DAY, de c emb er 6, 20 1 4

8 | tucked In digs and finds

Elegantly adorned Vintage décorative items from Satori

the host

Hotel confessional Hospitality secrets unearthed and spilled

Book shaped jewellery box

Candle stand

Tulip and vase

Flower vase

Lovely Lace photo frames

This week we talk to some of the leading hotels in the capital to find out what exactly goes on behind the prim and proper lobby scene. From security camera leaks to unwashed bedsheets, we really are airing out their dirty laundry. Read on to find out the sneakiest truths that have come straight from the horses’ mouth.

All eyes on you

Lovely Lace photo frames

“We have 24-hour camera surveillance through the lobbies and the corridors of every floor. Often times we get to watch live demos of people staggering along after hours, assuming there’s no one looking but the truth is, there is always someone watching. Always.”

Power in your hands

Table clock

Address: 121 Rd 44 (2nd Fl) Gulshan 2, Opp. Pink City, beside Persona, 1212 Dhaka, Bangladesh Contact: +8802 8827707 Photos: Facebook.com/satori.bdd

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

“When a complaint has been made to the front desk, it’s taken into account but it usually never reaches anyone of consequence. Complaints that actually reach higher authorities are the ones from those people who make sure they use the lovely phrase “Can I speak to your manager?”’

Booking gone wrong

“At any given point, especially during the non-peak season we always overbook the hotel because we know there are some guests who

reserve rooms but hardly ever show up. Don’t be surprised if you see your reserved room being taken by someone else. If you’re clever ask them to book you in another hotel, all expenses paid because that is what is expected.”

Bed bugs

“We wash bedsheets every day but when it comes to the heavier blankets/duvets, we wash them on a weekly basis. Not that they are ever left unchecked and dirty, we follow strict cleanliness protocol so if we feel that the blankets are clean, we leave it be till the next washing rotation.”

Politics is the name of the game “No matter how professional and co-ordinated the hotel family may seem, there’s actually a LOT going on behind the scenes. Not everyone on the top level of hierarchy gets there with merit – there’s more to it (if you know what I mean).”

Housekeeping horror

“Sometimes housekeepers take their own sweet time making up rooms, often doing more than just that. If there is a rush, housekeepers sometimes use the same detergent to wash everything from toilet seats to the mini bar glasses!”

Scandalous services

“Despite the brand name associated with big hotels, no matter where you go a client’s needs will be satisfied – no matter what they may be. Front desk managers always have special contacts to cater to a guest’s needs, given that they’re paying enough (which they usually do).”

When a smile goes a long way

“Most of the time we always have it in our capacity to give major discounts and allow guests to get a room upgrade. However, if the guest is snappy and on edge, we often withhold upgrades. It’s always the nice ones who are polite that get the updates easily.”

The secret to booking halls

“When booking a hall room for weddings or large events, whatever rent we charge is pr ofit for us.

If a guest has good connections and comes through the sales team members, we can get them extremely expensive ballrooms for half the price or even less. It’s the catering cost that we cannot compromise with.”

Take care |

9

health

No room for secrets Most sessions with your doctor last for 10 minutes. Make sure that the information you hide from your doctor and the assumptions he makes do not result in your medical condition being any worse than it already is

take a medical oath which makes it unethical for them to share your medical details with others.

No symptom is any less important

At times it is not uncommon to feel a little ashamed to consult a doctor for conditions you might feel embarrassed to share. For example: there can be blood coming out with your stool and you might feel that it is because of piles and can be treated without going to a doctor. However, there have been cases where this mere symptom in the long run has been diagnosed as colon cancer. No symptom, no matter how small or insignificant, should go untreated or be neglected.

| Tausif Sanzum

Hiding is not an option

You might not be proud of sharing the fact that you smoke, drink and occasionally get a little high, with your doctor. However, you cannot afford to hide such important details from him for your own good. Nicotine or alcohol might just prove counter effective once they mix with the medical drugs you are prescribed. And if you are concerned about privacy issues, doctors

Photos: Big Stock

Money might “not� be a bummer Most medical procedures require you to spend a considerable amount of money. And you might not always have that extra bit of moolah in your budget. Share this with your doctor.

There are hospitals like Labaid and Ibn Sina where discounts are provided in case you fall short of money. You can also ask your doctor if you can buy cheaper medicines than the ones he prescribes.

History is a must

There are many diseases which are genetic or illnesses which are interrelated. If you do not provide a detailed medical history to your doctor you might end up getting the wrong treatment. There might be medications which you are allergic to and this needs to be discussed with him. In the 10 minutes that you get with your doctor, he might ask you to do tests based on mere assumptions.

You can cut to the chase by helping him with upfront information about yourself.

What taboo!

You might have had unprotected sex and feel shy to share it with your doctor. Or you might want to ask your gynecologist about breast cancer. If you do not share intimate information like these with your physician, he/she might just base your treatment on assumptions such as marital status, social norms etc. For example, STDs such as gonorrhoea can easily be treated but if crucial information is withheld and it goes untreated, it might lead to infertility in the long run. You can avoid these harsh consequences by being a little bold and sharing information which you may consider to be a taboo.

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10 | Trial room

One of the greatest things about Bangladesh, besides the amazing people, is that there is very reliable, very cheap, very accessible mobile technology and telecommunication.

So we needed to figure out a way to put it all together.

Safety first Real-life superheroes

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

| Sabah Rahman

11

Trial room | This week, we sit down with Jennifer Farrell, MSc, who was a volunteer paramedic for four years. She’s one of those people who knew she wanted to be a doctor by the time she was 5. As soon as she turned 18, Jennifer signed up for paramedic training, so she could join her campus volunteer Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team. After many years of being a volunteer medic, she began teaching CPR and EMT classes in her local community, but also got a grant from Duke University through the Hard Leadership Program to go to South Africa and train teachers, community workers, and even prisoners in livesaving First Responder skills.

Q. What inspired you to start CriticaLink?

What made you pick Dhaka?

The thing about EMS is that, you realise that time is the most important factor so you are always racing against the clock. In Emergency Medicine we say there is a “golden hour” during which the largest number of people die that could be saved if we got to them in time.

I knew from the beginning of medical school that I was not only interested in trauma surgery, but also global health - two things that don’t generally go together, so I was going to have to go out and carve my own path a little bit. I was lucky to have a surgery professor mentor, Dr Jaffe, at Tulane who has been doing work on training First Responders for many decades in Asia, and together we decided to come to Bangladesh.

We first came here in 2012 and together, we trained hundreds of youth volunteers, scouts, medical students, security guards, and even doctors and surgeons in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. I immediately fell in love with the people of Bangladesh. After so many training sessions the question I kept getting was “What do we do now that we are trained? Just wait around for an accident to happen?” They were right, we had to build something to get the people with skills to the people who need them.

On April 24, 2013, just a few months after I returned to the US, the whole word turned to Bangladesh as we watched in horror what was happening at Rana Plaza. For me, in particular, having trained many

First Responders, I realised the need for this project even more. The very next day, on April 25, 2013, I got the news that I had received a Fulbright Grant from the US State Department to come back to Bangladesh to work on my accident research and First Responder project. For me, it felt like kismaat, that being in Bangladesh and working on this cause was really my calling.

Once I returned to Dhaka in the fall of October 2013, we started building a system that we named CriticaLink that wouldn’t just train First Responders, but also connect them to the people who need their help.

It would function as a volunteerbased “crowd-sourcing” 911-type system. Essentially we would have trained volunteers all over the city of Dhaka, and then when an accident is reported, First Responders closest to that patient will get a mobile alert through the CriticaLink app, along with a map and any descriptions, and by using location data, hopefully get help to people within a few short minutes instead of hours.

Q. What are some of the hurdles you faced with your project, being a foreigner and a woman?

I think many of the challenges I’ve faced in this project are those that would be faced by any entrepreneur.

Particularly because I’m coming from a medical and basic science background, and not a business one, so I am still learning the business vocabulary, and the right procedures for doing things in the corporate world. As a woman, I am working in a predominately male environment, both on the medical side, and on the tech side with all of my programmers and developers. I have been really lucky that despite the potential for “brogrammar” culture, people have made an effort to include me and treat me as an equal. I occasionally get thrown off when someone won’t look me in the eyes, or shake my hands, because both of those are such important things in the culture I come from, but I also understand that I am living in a place where that isn’t acceptable for everyone and I have to make adjustments accordingly. I try my best to be very sensitive to cultural differences, but I am also really lucky to be surrounded by many of my volunteers who are happy to explain

to me the right way to do things so that I don’t offend people.

Q. You’ve trained First Responders and EMTs in The USA and South Africa. How was that experience different than when you trained them in Dhaka?

Training students in Dhaka is fantastic because they are some of the most energetic and motivated young people I have ever worked with.

Although I feel like I have to “undo” some of the Bangladeshi education style where everyone stays quiet and takes notes, I think we are finally finding our style and encouraging people to come out of their shells and do things. Our trainings are very interactive, and it is SUPER important that you don’t just learn the theory, you learn the skill, and to learn the skill you have to get out of your chair and practice and do things.

The gender issue can also be something we have to discuss a lot about. I understand women and men don’t go around touching each other in public, but medicine and life saving emergency skills require everyone to put aside those things and act in the best interest of the patient. I understand the value of modesty in this culture, but one thing I always ask my patients - would you rather have your modesty and be dead or allow someone to do proper medical technique that may require them to expose parts of your body in some way? This is one of the things I find most difficult about training first responders here compared to other places.

However, one of the things I like best about training Bangladeshi people is that they are EXTREMELY creative and innovative. Once they warm up and realise that our trainings are a collaborative learning environment, they do not hesitate to ask questions or come up with clever ways of doing things, or making suggestions about how to do things better and faster. They inspire me every day.

at TEDx, it kind of came to life for the first time. It was no long just an idea, but something tangible, something real. And the fact that I got to share this with people, not just in Dhaka, but all over the world was certainly a proud moment.

The first of my two biggest hopes for the TEDx talk was that people around the world would see that there are some AMAZING things going on in Bangladesh - that this is a country filled with motivated, brilliant young people who are not afraid to take risks for innovation.

And secondly, I was hoping that showcasing CriticaLink on such a large platform would help us gather more support, but in terms of recruiting new volunteers, but also in finding some bigger sponsors to keep things growing and moving forward.

Q. What are some of your future goals?

I have so many! What I would love to see is for us to cover most of Dhaka over the next year, as well as Chittagong city, and then expand maybe to a few more places within Bangladesh. My other big goal for next year is to prove that Criticalink, while born in Bangladesh, is a system that can be implemented anywhere, fairly cheaply, fairly quickly.

Q. Having such a busy schedule, how do you find downtime?

I will openly admit I am not always good at maintaining a work-life balance! That being said, Dhaka is one of those places where there is always something going on. I like spending time with friends and going out to eat, or going for movie nights at people’s houses. And sometimes I like to just hibernate in my mosquito net with a movie on my computer and get food delivered and not speak to anyone for an evening to recharge my batteries. But for sure, downtime is something I struggle with, so even if I don’t get a lot of it, I try to enjoy it when I do.

Q. Presenting CriticaLink at TEDx must have been a proud moment in your life.

Were you overwhelmed at all?

Presenting at TEDx was definitely like having a dream come true. Criticalink is something I have dreamed about for many years and when I presented

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12 | Trending style session

with Sabrina Fatma Ahmad

Rocking that first date This week, we talk about making a good one on a first date. Once your killer style gets your foot in the door, you can let your natural charms take over and write your story for you.

Where to?

One of the keys to a great first date is the ability to be comfortable in your own skin. Which means, being dressed appropriately for the occasion. Ask your date where you’ll be meeting up, so that you can pick the right look for it. You don’t want to turn up for a movie date dripping in diamonds any more than you want to dress in your torn jeans for a dinner at a fancy restaurant. If nothing else, you’ll be squirming in your seat the whole while. Also, an outdoor meet might require warm layers, an activity-oriented evening may call for comfortable footwear, so plan accordingly.

The bling balance While you do want to dress up a little for the first date, show your date that you made an effort, you don’t want to go overboard with it. Accessories are a great way to personalise an outfit, but don’t let them overwhelm you.

It’s nice to have one quirky piece that’s a conversation starter; more than two is too much. And an insider tip: guys are intimidated by oversized sunglasses, big bags and ginormous earrings, so if you want to go to Date No. 2, let him off the hook by picking something more discreet. But do keep a large accessory handy just in case the date isn’t going so well, and feel free to pop it on mid-date to throw him off.

Skin Game Dating is all about attraction, so it doesn’t hurt to show a little bit of skin, just enough to raise some interest. If you’re going to turn up with your collar buttoned up to your throat and your hemlines touching your ankles, you might come across as severe and closed off. However, too much skin can also send the wrong message.

Keep it classy. Pick a nice sleeveless number with a modest neckline if you have great arms.

Or a full-sleeve number with a boatneck feature that highlights your collarbones. Keep your hair off your face to look more approachable, and you’re good to go.

fashion

Avenue T style challenge Snazzy duds for that first date

| Sabah Rahman We’re challenging some of our favourite shops in Dhaka to show us how they would dress a couple on their first date. Coming at you first, here’s what Urban Truth had to offer twosomes to get the sparks flying.

LOOK 1

His

The perfect way to rock these bright, brick-red trousers is to top them off with a polo in softer shades. Muted pinks, greens and blues in a floral motif make this one anything but boring

Her’s

Knock his socks off in this military chic jumpsuit, cinched by a burnt orange, braided belt at the waist. This look can easily transition from day to night wear, if you two hit it off and want to linger on

His

Show her you’re not afraid to flaunt your true colours in this dusty rose button down. Make sure you layer it over a graphic printed T-shirt with just a bit peeking out. Bring it all together with the burnt sienna slacks and you’re ready to paint the town red

Her’s

Photos: Sabiha Akond Rupa

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LOOK 2

You can rest assured all eyes will be on you when you top off a sultry, floral camisole with crochet trimming with a hot pink kimono jacket. A pleasant riot of colours, worn with black jeggings and a mustard purse

13

Tailored| his style

style session

Secrets to better style

with mahmood Hossain

Nothing is new under the sun, especially not secrets

| Mahmood Hossain Certain celebrities are asked what their secret is, how do they make things look so effortless. Truth is, there are no actual secrets. The basics in fashion and style are the real secrets. There are simple steps taken from the wardrobe that men tend to forget. Whether you know these style secrets or not, it’s time for a revisit to the treasure trove of men’s fashion.

• If you want to be the sharpest man in the room, never overlook the smaller details. A suit is just a suit until you add a subtle change to your look.

A pocket square, for example, is the perfect accessory that catches the attention of many.

• Fashion is the most effective tool to your personal style.

It’s important to differentiate you from the crowd. You may be trying a trend followed by many, but you should have a signature to your style. Mixing vintage pieces with a more modern touch can be a great way to start.

• People will judge you by your shoes.

It’s become common practice all over the world when it comes to what’s wrapped around your feet. Make sure you have a variety of shoes from casual to formal.

• Steer away from the norm.

Black, grey and navy are safe, but try spiking the style punch with something bright or out of the ordinary. A true blue or Bordeaux coloured suit is a fantastic way to up the ante.

• Head to the tailors as much as possible. Keep in mind the tailors aren’t just for the entire suit. You can get your shirts, trousers, and jackets made separately. Point in case? Keep everything fitted.

Q

I remember reading here that etiquette is as important as fashion in someone’s style.

I’ve always been confused when it comes to paying the bill on a date.

While I like paying for the meal, I know there are women who aren’t too fond of the idea. How do I avoid an argument?

People tend to overcomplicate things, not everything is a calculus problem. It’s always about keeping things simple and basic. First things first, there needs to be a mutual understanding between you and your date. You should never make a big deal out of the situation. The situation will play out on its own.

If you offer to pick up the bill, pay for it. If your date insists on paying for it, let her. Later, offer to pay for her next meal, balancing things out without much fuss. Even better, splitting the bill is always a plus. Again, don’t overthink it, be diplomatic about it.

A Photo: Big Stock

• Using your head is as important as your taste in clothes. Contrasting is important, just as wearing similar shades, which makes things look easy. Finding the perfect break (your hemlines) on your trousers is a chic way of presenting yourself to the rest of the world. All these major details mentioned sum up your style. This is how you express your personality through your wardrobe.

Photos: Big Stock

in fashion

Tis the season to be warm Knitwear essentials

Sweaters have come a long way from the cheesy holiday designs and ridiculously chunky feel, weighing too much to be considered safe.

Thankfully, the modern cut and design are more attractive and worn with confidence. There are two types of sweaters that are considered winter staples and you best get very familiar with them.

Crewneck sweaters This is a collarless, round design that has a snuggle fit around the neck.

You’ll run into these more often than not during the colder months. It’s the most common when it comes to comfort and warmth. There are also crewneck sweatshirts, which are similar in design but lighter in fabric.

This particular sweater is mainly worn on its own, meaning there’s nothing

Q

| Mahmood Hossain else underneath, apart from the underwear. But this becomes a fantastic item to have when you’re layering it with a jacket or coat. It’s thick enough to be warm, and light enough to add another layer on top.

V-neck sweaters Here’s where things can get interesting. The V-neck exposes more of the upper part of your chest. While it’s not advised to wear nothing underneath, you can still pull it off with careful consideration. You know, how hairy your chest is or if you even have a chiselled chest to show off. Let’s just steer away from that and concentrate on what you can do with the V-neck.

This cut allows you to wear dress shirts and polos underneath. Unlike the crewneck, this is used to be worn

as a top layer.

However, like the crewneck, it is still light enough for you to add another layer on top. The V-neck is the perfect sweater to have if you decide to skip the suit jacket and simply have your dress shirt and tie on. And don’t confuse this with sweater vests.

Let’s put it this way - having sleeves on your knitwear is a safer bet.

Are turtlenecks in style nowadays, especially for the winter season?

Turtlenecks are one of those styles that don’t look great on everyone. You really have to have a certain look to pull them off. It’s not a bad idea to try one on yourself but it’s definitely not a trend in the high street of fashion this time around. The entire idea of avoiding this type of knitwear is to allow more room for play. Instead of having that suffocating look around your neck, you can add a scarf to the mix. Remember, you can always take your scarf off. Turtleneck?

Not so much. Ultimately, it’s down to you and what makes you feel comfortable.

Q A

Send in your style inquiries to avenuet@dhakatribune.com

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14 | Tempt beauty session

with sabah rahman

Say what?

Secrets the experts won’t tell you

beauty

6

major

beauty boo boos

Just say no

| Sabah Rahman

There are a few secrets beauty and hair specialists won’t tell their clients or spill in articles. Why? It’s really simple. They would lose a whole lot of business if you went about doing the treatments they are trained in by yourself. Remember though, this does not mean you can perform all sorts of miracles in your powder room. They are specialists for a reason.

Scrub a dub As relaxing as it may be going in to get a facial done every few weeks, it’s not really necessary. If you’ve been blessed with good skin and follow a strict cleansing, exfoliating and toning regimen at home, there is no need to blow a wad of cash so often.

Keep your hands sanitised whenever you touch your face. That can be a life-saver as you won’t transfer icky bacteria onto your face.

When to see a pro Facial massages can be very beneficial as they get the blood flow going and can help make you glow. You can do them by yourself, but laying back and letting a professional do it is so much more relaxing.

Know when to wash Most ladies know by now that squeaky clean tresses make it hard to lock in elaborate hairstyles. This doesn’t mean that you can saunter into the salon with a greasy scalp that you haven’t cleansed in days. This will make it even harder to work with you and achieve your do of choice.

What to do?

Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo early in the day before your appointment. This will ensure that all the previous gunk from styling products have taken a hike. Your favourite stylist will then be able to work with hair that is neither too clean or an oily mess.

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

1. A note to all the confused darkskinned ladies out there - stop trying to make yourself appear pale by slathering on layers of gunk that’s probably meant for a natural blonde. You’re not fooling anyone with that grey pallor.

2. The “ring around the mouth” look is not an attractive one. Lip liner that is too dark can actually make your mouth appear smaller. Let’s not even delve into the subject of dark brown liner drawn around frosty lips. If you can’t let the liner go, make sure it’s as close to your natural lip colour as possible.

Follow with lipstick or gloss.

3. Blush is meant to resemble the natural glow on our cheeks. The key is to blend until you can’t see the lines where the blush starts and stops.

4. If you’re not a professional makeup artist or just not really good with your hands, don’t attempt to contour your cheeks and step out in broad daylight. Most people get it wrong and look like they just walked out of the set of a Robert Palmer video. (Yes, the 80s were indeed a great decade, but it’s time to move on.)

5. Are you 12? If so, by all means, douse yourself in glitter. Tiny specks of reflective particles in your make-up or a bit of shimmer is not what we’re on about. It’s the big, chunky glitter that can be a real eye sore. Leave that look for the kids unless you work as a stage performer and are required to wear it.

6. Don’t match your eye make-up with your outfit, bag, shoes and accessories. Looking too matchymatchy is just plain odd. Why not use a shade that compliments your outfit instead? Sporting red eyeshadow with red lips will forever be a don’t. Don’t even try it.

Photo: Mufty Anup Munir

It’s not as if there aren’t enough beauty magazines and websites telling us what not to do when it comes to putting on the war paint.

However, some lost souls are still not getting the message and walking around looking like a hot mess. So here it is loud and clear! We’re here to stop bad make-up from happening to good people.

15

Ticket|

Wedding special

discount offer | Sabiha Akond Rupa As the wedding season kicks in, the demand for buying new furniture items are on the rise. Noksha Furniture Ltd, a sister concern of Quality Agro Forestry Limited, that deals with special items and offers is giving up to 20% discount this wedding season.

You can check their website for more information atwww.nokshafurniture.com.

Photos: Courtesy

• All you need to unwind at the end of the day

Showroom-1: 666/A, Kazipara, Begum Rokeya Sarani, Mirpur, Dhaka Showroom-2: House-04, Garib-ENewaz Ave., Sector-11, Uttara, Dhaka

• Rock your worries away

• Say a little prayer before your meal

• Enough room for all your kicks

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16 | travelogue

A ride into | Tausif Sanzum

No amount of poaching, deforestation can take away the beauty of the largest mangrove forest in the world, the Sundarbans. Plan a trip to this swampy wild area which is home to the largest population of the Royal Bengal Tiger. In case you miss to catch a glimpse of these majestic animals, a boat ride through the thick mangrove vegetation will not be any less of a life long memorable incident.

Not just tigers, but you will come across tonnes of exotic flora and fauna in their natural habitat during your trip.

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

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travelogue|

o the wild AVE N U E T SATU R DAY, de c emb er 6, 20 1 4

18 | Tantalise recipe

Lemon Sponge Cake with White Chocolate Ganache Make room for some sugary delights

Lemon Sponge Cake ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

4 eggs 1½ cup sugar ½ cup vegetable oil ½ full cream milk Zest and juice of one big lemon or 2 small ones 1tsp vanilla essence 1½ cup all-purpose flour 2tsp baking powder A pinch of salt

Directions for the Sponge Cake: • Sift in the flour and baking powder in a bowl and keep aside • In a separate big bowl, beat in the eggs and sugar until the volume doubles or better if you can beat till it triples • Pour in the oil and beat again.

Then add the rest of the ingredients - milk, lemon zest, lemon juice and vanilla essence.

Beat till you get a smooth and light mixture • Fold in the flour and baking powder mixture into the egg mixture

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014

White Chocolate Ganache: An important tip for you all - always add half the amount of double cream or custard to the chocolate to make the perfect ganache!

Ingredients: • 100gm double cream or custard • 200gm white chocolate • A knob of butter Directions: Warm up the double cream or make your desired custard and add chopped white chocolate. Stir until the chocolate and butter are melted and you get a smooth texture.

We’re almost there. Now you can either place the bowl over cold water and stir the mixture vigorously until it cools down to a thick consistency, or refrigerate it for 10 to 20 minutes until it thickens, then mix it with a spoon to reconstitute the smooth texture.

Finally pour over the Lemon Sponge Cake. And voila! You just baked a royalty of a treat!

| Tasmia Momin

19

News |

Rang

and Shroddha A sneak peek into what fashion outlets Rang and Shroddha have in store for you this Victory Day.

Gitanjali Lifestyle (Sash Limited) in Bangladesh once again has taken the initiative to host and organise an exclusive musical night to bid farewell to another year. Gitanjali Lifestyle will present Benny Dayal to Dhaka, one of the biggest stars of the Bollywood music industry. This event shall take place on December 18, 2014, at Radisson Blu, followed by a glitzy fashion show.

The Ticket launching event was held on November 29 in presence of Ms Sohana Rouf Chowdury, owner and managing director of Sash Limited, Mr Faiyaz Ahmed, head of Momentum Event Management Limited and all media partners. Tickets are available at Tk3,000 and Tk5,000 at Gitanjali Jewellers, Nando’s outlets and for VIP tickets contact 01945357313.

This event will be sponsored by HONDA, Navana Real Estate Ltd, EICHER, BRAC BANK LIMITED, AMBER GROUP, and SET WET. Media partners will include CHANNEL i, RADIO SHADHIN 92.4FM, Dhaka Tribune, Daily Ittefaq, and ICE TODAY. Event partners are Coca-Cola, EPIC AIR, PAPER STUDIO, and MAGNITO DIGITAL.

Benny Dayal in Dhaka

AIUB 1st Conference for Young Public Health Professionals A two day-long conference titled “AIUB 1st Conference for Young Public Health Professionals” was organised by the Public Health Department of American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) from November 29-30. It was aimed towards “Fostering Young Brains into Action.” The conference was inaugurated by Prof Dr A K Azad Chowdhury, chairman (state minister), University Grants Commission of Bangladesh on November 29 at AIUB Auditorium.

Mr Ishtiaque Abedin, hon’ble chairman, American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) delivered the welcome address as the special guest. Professor Dr Shamsul Alam, member, General Economic Division, Planning Commission of Bangladesh was also attended the conference as the special guest, where Dr Carmen Z Lamagna, vice chancellor of American International University – Bangladesh (AIUB) presided over the programme. The key note speech was given by Dr Mushtaque R Chowdhury, vice-chairman, BRAC on “Universal Health Coverage for Bangladesh: Rhetoric or Reality?” At the end, vote of thanks was given by Dr Charles C. Villanueva, pro vice chancellor of the university.

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20 | news

Smartex

in Chittagong The popular fashion house Smartex has opened its 28th outlet at the ground floor of Chittagong Shopping Complex on November 30. Kamron Malek, the president of the Chittagong Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry was present at the inaugural event. The fashion house has a collection of shirts, trousers and panjabis for men, while it has three pieces, kurta and trousers for women. It also has a wide collection of children’s clothing items. In occasion of its new outlet opening, Smartex is offering 25% discount on children and women’s clothing items at its Chittagong outlet.

Veni Vidi Vici inaugurated The inauguration ceremony of Veni Vidi Vici was held at the restaurant’s premises on November 20. The Italian fine dining restaurant has opened doors at House 48, Road 4, Sector 3, Uttara, Dhaka. The restaurant’s authority, management personnel, members of the Italian community, celebrities and press delegates were present at the opening ceremony.

Sporting a Roman theme, Veni Vidi Vici has a seating capacity of 120 people.

Guests were given a tour of the spacious two-storied dining place which also boasts an open-air brick oven, the first of its kind in Dhaka. The Romaninspired menu highlights a collection of Italian five-course meals. Most of the ingredients including the rich collection of cheese are flown in directly from Italy.

At the ceremony, members of the board shared their vision of enriching the culinary experience of locals via the introduction of authentic Italian cuisine.

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Kabir Hossain, an expat Bangladeshi with over 20 years of experience in Italian cuisine, is the head chef and one of the owners. Having worked over a decade in Michelin Star restaurants with the likes of Angelo Toriani and Angelo Sabatelli, Kabir Hossain decided to bring the true taste of Rome to Dhaka. He also trained in Gambero Rosso and A Tavola con lo Chef, two of the most sought after culinary arts schools in Italy.

An evening with Arbovirus On November 21, Light Ray Events arranged for a buffet dinner at the Baton Rouge Banquet Hall, accompanied by live music from Arbovirus.

News |

21

Policy Dialogue British Curry Awards 2014 - Kate Silverton, Newcomer of the Year Award (Five Rivers A La Carte) Home Secretary Theresa May and Enam Ali MBE

British Curry Awards 2014 The UK’s favourite cuisine was celebrated on December 2 at the milestone, tenth-anniversary British Curry Awards, in association with Just Eat. The industry at large, foodies, celebrities, MP and dignitaries paid homage to the nation’s finest curry restaurants amid the grandiose of Battersea Evolution, London.

Among the high profile guest list were chief guest, Rt Hon Teresa May MP, home secretary; business figure, Dr Vijay Mallya, chairman, UB Group; MP’s Chris Grayling, Andrew Rosindell, Nicky Morgan, Keith Vaz; footballer David Seaman MBE; Paralympian David Weir CBE; broadcasters Krishnan GuruMurthy, Maxine Mawhinney, Rageh Omaar; actors Adil Ray, Shobu Kapoor, Shobna Gulati; Sgt Johnson Beharry; TV presenters Lizzie Cundy and Pat Sharp; Nancy Dell’Olio; Neil and Christine Hamilton. The event hosts were broadcasters Kate Silverton and Hardeep Kohli.

A pioneer in the UK catering and hospitality sector, British Curry Awards has been lauded as a national institution in its own right – the first and landmark event to celebrate the £3.6 billion industry’s achievements. In a special video message played at the event, prime minister David Cameron said, “I’m delighted to pay tribute to all that you’ve achieved. These awards are a great night for this country. When I think of what makes me proud to be British, I think of the way we have built a multiracial democracy – a country that is a welcoming home for people of different histories and regions. The curry industry is a great example of the incredible contribution of different communities. It is a great example of our whole country coming together. You can see it from the ‘Balti Triangle’ in Birmingham’ to the Manchester’s ‘Curry Mile’ to London’s Brick Lane, recently crowned our Curry Capital. Curry is one of our country’s greatest achievements and one of our most exciting exports too.”

The winners of the British Curry Awards 2014 were Best Spice Restaurant in London Central & City: The Cinnamon Club, Westminster; Best Spice Restaurant in London Outer & Suburbs: Shampan Welling, Kent; Best Spice Restaurant in South East: Maliks Restaurant, Maidenhead, Berkshire; Best Spice Restaurant in South West: Myristica, Bristol; Best Spice Restaurant in North East: Aagrah Midpoint, Thornbury, West Yorkshire; Best Spice Restaurant in North West: Blue Tiffin, Oldham; Best Spice Restaurant in Midlands: Mem Saab, Nottingham; Best Spice Restaurant in Wales: Rasoi Indian Kitchen, Swansea; Best Spice Restaurant in Scotland: Light of Bengal, Aberdeen; Best Casual Dining: Dishoom Covent Garden; Newcomer of the Year: Five Rivers A La Carte, Walsall; Best Delivery Restaurant/ Takeaway by Justeat. com: The Chilli Pickle, Brighton.

Young Economists’ Forum (YEF) of North South University organised the largest inter-university competition on policy dialogue called “Policy Dialogue” itself, which was held inside the North South University campus plaza on December 2. Policy Dialogue is a highly prestigious event of the country powered

by EBL and Helvetia this time.

Some very talented and adept youngsters from top universities of Bangladesh namely North South University, Brac University, Dhaka University, East West University, American International University of Bangladesh, Jahangir Nagar University and United International University debated on their findings on major economic and social issues and some logical and factual opinions were shared infront of the

highly honoured juries. Enthusiastic audiences also expressed their opinions and concerns regarding the issues discussed in the programme.

The event started off with an opening ceremony with opening speeches from the chief guest, chairman of NSU Benajir Ahmed, honourable guest, Prof Amin U Sarkar (vice chancellor, NSU) and special guest, associate Prof Mohammad Mahboob Rahman (dean of School of Busines, NSU). Four worthy participants were selected from the primary rounds for the final face off. The winner received certificates, crest and a prize money of Tk10,000 and the ceremony was closed by a grand dinner arranged for the guests, participants and volunteers of the event “Policy Dialogue.”

Grand Finale of OXY presents Creadive ‘14 took place The most awaited Grand Finale of OXY presents Creadive ‘14 took place at the premises of Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP).

Creadive, an inter university competition of business communication and ad making was sponsored by the renowned Japanese MNC Rohto-Mentholatum (BD) Ltd’s brand OXY, The first dedicated men’s brand in Bangladesh and was arranged by BUP Communication Club.

Mr. Obayedul Kader, minister of road and transport, was present as the chief guest and the special guests were Mr. Ken Arai, the Managing

Director of Rohto Mentholatum (BD) Ltd and Maj. General Sheikh Mamun Khaled, Vice Chancellor of the university. 37 teams from more than ten renowned universities of the capital participated and among them 6 could make it to the final “Team Potter” from IBA, Dhaka University won the championship.

Team “Chain Chokers” from (IBA-DU) and Team “Maverick” from Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) became the first and second runners up accordingly.

AVE N U E T SATU R DAY, de c emb er 6, 20 1 4

Sea Food BBQ fest at Dhaka Regency Grill master chefs of Dhaka Regency Hotel & Resort opens doors to all the foodies for feasting over an exquisite selection of grilled dishes in its three month long “Sea Food BBQ” Fest starting from the beginning of December at the “Grill on the Skyline.”

An array of exciting lavish delights is carefully selected by the executive chef of the hotel. Their special Grilled Lobster, Salmon Steak, Medium Shrimps, Filet of White Snapper, Grilled Spring Chicken, Imported Tenderloin Steak, Chicken Tikka Kebab, Beef and Chicken Stir Fry, Prawn Stir Fry, Mixed Seafood, King Crab and many more exotic sea foods will be on the menu. As the eagerly-awaited winter season approaches, the Sea Food BBQ fest at Dhaka Regency will continue with freshly grilled dishes starting everyday 6:00pm to 11:00pm from December 01, 2014 till February 28, 2015. Book your table at 01713332661.

AVEN U E T SATU R DAY, de c e m b er 6 , 2014