News
Latest news and updates in Bangladesh
Art has often played a powerful role in shaping society’s consciousness, especially in times of crisis. Some of the most touching moments during the early days of the pandemic were people singing or playing music for their neighbours, drawing their communities out on balconies and rooftops to share the moment. Ismaili artists from various countries share their stories of how Covid-19 impacted them and how they adapted to the new normal.
At the opening of the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, Prince Amyn emphasized the importance of art in our lives by noting that “art and culture can have a profound impact in healing misunderstanding and in fostering trust even across great divides.” He made this speech in 2014, although the essence of his words remains timeless.
This week, on our fifth episode of Trailblazers, we are joined by Danish Dhamani, the co-founder of Orai, and one of 2021’s Forbes 30 under 30.
After months of excitement, anticipation, and a journey of over 6,000 miles from Salamiyah, Syria, Nuha Alaizouki and Wassim Alhammwy are finally able to call the Aga Khan Academy in Maputo, Mozambique their new home.
Today we feature a rendition of the popular Sabza Ba Naaz by US-based The Sufistics featuring the Noor Band from Tajikistan. The song aspires to leave us with hope that the world will soon be green with abundance again.
The Ismaili is pleased to present New Perfume by the Canadian Artist Collective. The lyrics draw on the symbolism of fresh fragrance to invoke feelings of hope, excitement, and renewal as we look ahead to a new year.
“Of course, Mummy,” responds Zoya Nayani, the main character of Pebbles to Penguins: A Story of Renewal. Zoya’s definite statement is not unlike the responses of many people when asked, “Are you okay?” Entrenched in the context of the pandemic — like nearly everyone else in the world — the directors of Pebbles to Penguins are committed to uncovering the psychological subtext of these conversations.
The Ismaili is pleased to present Navroz Mubarak 1400, performed by the Canadian Artist Collective. The song not only welcomes the coming of spring, but also celebrates the new year, and a new century in the Solar Hijri calendar.
Today, The Ismaili brings you Natasha Baig's Dar Pe Tere, a heartfelt tribute and request. The song seeks blessings and guidance, as we individually and collectively navigate towards brighter times.
This week, on our fourth episode of Trailblazers, we are joined by Rahim Daya, CEO of Barclays Private Bank, Switzerland, as well as the head of Middle East at Barclays. Based in Dubai, Rahim is responsible for the management and strategy of Barclays, Middle East, and is a drummer for the band, Khayal, having performed all across the globe, including at the Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Lisbon in 2018.
The Ismaili is pleased to present Tere Nur Se Mawla, a collaborative initiative between music artists Taufiq Karmali and Irfan Sheen. With lyrics in both Urdu and Farsi, the song describes the colours and fragrances associated with spring and the occasion of Navroz.