A woman's gold is not only her strength, but her investments; by nature, a woman likes to save for rainy days.

A furniture fair is not exactly my idea of an afternoon outing. However, when my expat friend, who is returning to Dhaka to finally settle down, decided to explore the local furniture market, the ongoing five-day National Furniture Fair at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) seemed like the right choice.

The city has quite a reputation. It is cruel, unforgiving, and even hostile to newcomers. However, Dhaka simultaneously embraces all, gives a chance to anyone who dares to venture into its crowd, and most importantly, teaches everyone some valuable lessons.

People are becoming increasingly aware of animal welfare, leading to an increase in pet ownership and a push for better care for strays.

Do you know why I will always be true to Dhaka? I admit that the metropolis is chaotic, but I do enjoy the fuss, the cacophony, and the colours in the lanes and by-lanes of this ever-changing city. Yet, it’s the food scene that I love most. I believe I know the town well enough, but every now and then, I stumble upon a hidden gem: a food corner that most people do not know of.

Which one are you?

The elaborate and painstakingly selected menu for the divine daughter is the best of South Asian vegetarian recipes; puffed up soft luchi (flatbread) that has a pearly sheen from being deep fried, potato curry, or alu’r daam as we call it locally, a mixed lentil curry and vegetable labra, and a hog plum or amra’r chutney.

In 1610, when Islam Khan, the Mughal subahdar of Bengal, first arrived in Dhaka, legend has it that he witnessed Durga Puja on the banks of the Buriganga.

On September 24, a youth art exhibition, titled “Transformation,” came to a successful close in Dhaka. The event, held at the Residence of the Kingdom of Netherlands, brought together young artists, cultural leaders, and art enthusiasts for an evening that celebrated creativity, wellness, and community.

Once again, the majestic visitor of Sarat, or autumn, descends to her father’s abode on her annual visit. This year, Goddess Durga is riding an elephant, which, according to traditional Hindu belief, is the regal and auspicious mode of transport that promises good times for her devotees.

In the heart of Dhaka, amid the city’s relentless pace, a silent grave has reclaimed its dignity.

An initiative that I am particularly passionate about is TishCAN, a humble support group dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer patients who are unable to solicit donations or raise funds on their own.

It was my friend’s birthday, and I forgot to wish him. As penance, I treated him to a hilsa dinner.

My first ride in a Murir Tin bus was when I visited my grandfather in Bheramara, Kushtia, in the late seventies.

Dhaka never says no -- it welcomes everyone who arrives! The city may not hand you breathing space, but it will always carve out a corner for you -- sometimes generous, sometimes barely enough to call a coffin.

Ice cream is a sinful indulgence for anyone... I have a confession to make about this decadent, intense pleasure. I am addicted to ice cream bars and cones. My craving feels almost excessive

In the capital’s Purana Paltan bus stop area, near Paltan Jame Mashjid, there is a wholesale and retail lighting market that will most certainly catch your eye, making you wonder what corner of your home could use such elegant artwork.

There was a time Dhaka only sprawled horizontally, stubbornly, like a city allergic to the sky. But then, when the land grew scarce, Dhaka simply looked up and thought -- why not the sky? So now, it climbs.

The Friday menu, whether for breakfast or lunch, has always been a lavish affair for the people of Dhaka.

Step out onto any rooftop in Dhaka and take a slow spin. You’ll notice that almost every building in this urban jungle has one thing in common: balconies or verandas, whatever you want to call them.