Lifestyle
Bhaluka Launches Lavish Development
Bhaluka, a burgeoning town in Mymensingh, is poised for remarkable growth with the implementation of ambitious projects by Best Holdings Limited (BHL).
These initiatives, which encompass a luxurious five-star hotel, upscale housing, a prestigious international school, and a private economic zone, aim to enhance the area’s infrastructure and provide modern amenities for residents and visitors. With a substantial investment of Tk3,500 crore, covering approximately 850 acres of land, these ventures are expected to generate significant employment opportunities.
One of the prominent developments is the Marriott Bhaluka, an opulent hotel operated by Marriott International, USA. Strategically located along the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway near Mawna, the 228-room property will cater to business travelers and foreign visitors. Bhaluka is home to a multitude of industries, including textiles, garments, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, and float glass, making it a thriving commercial destination. The entire area will be transformed into a vibrant township, featuring branches of eight banks, 120 showrooms, and two cineplexes, as highlighted by BHL Chairman Amin Ahmad in an interview with the private online news media.
Apart from the Marriott Bhaluka hotel, BHL is also undertaking the construction of The Muslin, a luxury resort under the Marriott International’s prestigious Luxury Collection brand, situated in Mamarishpur, Bhaluka.
Ahmad’s motivation for investing substantial funds into luxury hospitality and education in Bhaluka, an upazila located 50 kilometers away from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, stems from the need to address the lack of quality accommodations and leisure facilities for the growing number of international visitors. He conducted extensive research to ensure that these upscale ventures in Bhaluka yield returns faster than similar projects in Dhaka.
Ahmad’s commitment to development extends beyond the hospitality industry. He is currently establishing Haileybury Bhaluka, a high-end residential school with a capacity of 1,000 students, in collaboration with Haileybury UK, renowned for its excellence in education. The school is set to open this year, with a British principal appointed to oversee its operations. Ahmad has invested Tk700 crore in this globally reputed educational institution.
With a vision for sustainable and transformative projects, Ahmad’s contributions to Bangladesh’s private sector have been remarkable. He began his business career as a contractor in the late 1980s and subsequently ventured into his own infrastructure projects, achieving notable success with Le Meridien Dhaka. The construction of Marriott Bhaluka, designed for frequent business and recreational travelers, is nearing completion and is scheduled to open in December. Additionally, Ahmad is developing The Muslin Luxury Collection, a Tk1,385 crore luxury resort that will be launched in 2024, covering a vast 57-acre expanse. Furthermore, he plans to construct 100 luxury villas on 30 acres of land, valued at approximately Tk450 crore, which will be sold to individuals and managed by Marriott International.
Ahmad’s interest in the hospitality sector was sparked by his strategic acquisition of 850 acres of land in Bhaluka 16 years ago. This valuable asset, given the scarcity and potential complications associated with land acquisition in Bangladesh, provided him the impetus to dream big. Presently, Ahmad is dedicated to developing his ambitious projects, encompassing infrastructure, education, healthcare, real estate, private economic zones, food and agriculture, and industrial ventures, all situated on this expansive land. Furthermore, he envisions the establishment of a 1,000-bed hospital in Bhaluka, for which he seeks an international chain partner.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Ahmad remains humble and instills a similar lifestyle in his children, who have chosen teaching careers over indulging in the empire he has built over the years.
Parrots, with their vibrant plumage and charismatic personalities, have captivated humans for centuries. These intelligent and social birds play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit. To recognize and raise awareness about the conservation of these fascinating creatures, Global Parrot Day is celebrated worldwide on 31st May. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving parrot populations and their habitats.
Introduction to Global Parrot Day
Global Parrot Day is an annual event celebrated on 31st May. It aims to highlight the diversity and conservation status of parrots, as well as the need to protect their habitats. This day encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and take action for the well-being of these magnificent birds.
The Importance of Parrots in the Ecosystem
Parrots fulfill essential ecological roles, making them keystone species in many habitats. Their contributions include:
Parrots as Seed Dispersers: Parrots have a unique ability to consume various fruits and seeds, and their strong beaks enable them to break through tough exteriors. After digesting the fruit, parrots excrete the undigested seeds in different locations, aiding in seed dispersal and promoting the growth of diverse plant species.
Parrots as Pollinators: Some parrot species, such as the Sun Conure and the Eclectus Parrot, play a vital role in pollination. As parrots feed on nectar-rich flowers, pollen attaches to their feathers, facilitating cross-pollination between plants.
Parrots as Indicators of Ecosystem Health: Parrots are excellent indicators of the overall health of their ecosystems. Their decline or absence can signify environmental imbalances, such as habitat degradation, pollution, or the presence of invasive species.
Threats to Parrot Populations
Despite their ecological significance, parrot populations face numerous threats that jeopardize their survival:
Habitat Loss and Deforestation: Deforestation, primarily driven by human activities such as logging and agriculture, has resulted in the destruction of vast tracts of parrot habitats. The loss of nesting sites and food sources poses a severe threat to these birds.
Illegal Wildlife Trade: Parrots are highly sought after in the illegal wildlife trade due to their vibrant feathers and ability to mimic human speech. Capture and transportation for the pet trade cause immense stress and mortality among parrots, further impacting their populations.
Climate Change: Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and habitat disruption due to climate change pose significant challenges for parrots. These changes affect food availability, alter migration patterns, and contribute to the spread of diseases.
Conservation Efforts for Parrots
To safeguard parrot populations and their habitats, several conservation initiatives are underway:
Protected Areas and Sanctuaries: Establishing protected areas and sanctuaries helps conserve critical habitats for parrots. These designated areas provide a safe haven for parrot populations, allowing them to breed, forage, and fulfill their ecological roles.
Breeding and Release Programs: Many conservation organizations run breeding and release programs to bolster parrot populations. These initiatives involve captive breeding, where parrots are bred in controlled environments and then reintroduced into the wild to boost numbers and genetic diversity.
Community Engagement and Education: Engaging local communities and raising awareness about the importance of parrots and their habitats is crucial. Conservation organizations work closely with communities to develop sustainable practices and foster appreciation for parrots, ensuring long-term conservation efforts.
Celebrating Global Parrot Day
Global Parrot Day provides an opportunity to actively participate in the conservation of these magnificent birds:
Awareness Campaigns and Events: Numerous events and awareness campaigns are organized on Global Parrot Day. These initiatives aim to educate the public about parrot conservation, promote responsible pet ownership, and raise funds for conservation projects.
Volunteering and Donating: Individuals can contribute their time and skills by volunteering at parrot rescue centers, sanctuaries, or participating in habitat restoration projects. Additionally, donating to reputable parrot conservation organizations helps fund vital research and conservation efforts.
Supporting Parrot Conservation Organizations: By supporting parrot conservation organizations, individuals can aid in the protection of parrot habitats, rescue injured birds, and contribute to community engagement initiatives. Every contribution plays a crucial role in safeguarding these remarkable creatures.
Read More: Global Meditation Day Today
Global Parrot Day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving parrot populations and their habitats. Parrots are not only beautiful and intelligent creatures but also play significant roles in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. By recognizing the threats they face and actively participating in their conservation, we can ensure a brighter future for parrots and the ecosystems they inhabit.
May 21st marks Global Meditation Day, a worldwide celebration of the ancient practice that brings people together in a moment of tranquility and introspection. As the stresses of modern life continue to mount, this day serves as a reminder of the transformative power of meditation to restore balance and promote global harmony. With millions of individuals from all walks of life participating, Global Meditation Day has become a powerful platform for fostering peace, well-being, and unity on a global scale.
On this momentous occasion, individuals from every corner of the globe gather in homes, parks, and meditation centers to partake in this collective journey of stillness. The origins of Global Meditation Day can be traced back to a growing recognition of the profound impact meditation can have on individuals and society as a whole. In recent years, scientific studies have unveiled the numerous benefits of regular meditation, including reduced stress, improved focus, enhanced emotional well-being, and even physical health improvements.
With the proliferation of technology and constant bombardment of information, finding moments of silence and inner calm has become increasingly challenging. Global Meditation Day seeks to address this by encouraging individuals to set aside time for introspection and self-reflection. By doing so, participants tap into their inner wisdom, heighten their awareness, and cultivate a sense of interconnectedness with the world around them.
The impact of Global Meditation Day extends far beyond personal well-being. As millions of people across the globe join in this shared experience, a wave of positive energy and intention is unleashed. Scientific studies have shown that group meditation can create a measurable ripple effect, leading to reduced crime rates, improved social harmony, and even a decrease in global conflict. The collective stillness generated on this day serves as a potent reminder of the potential for humanity to come together and create a more peaceful and compassionate world.
Global Meditation Day is not limited to experienced practitioners; it welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of familiarity with meditation. Guided meditations, online resources, and local events are readily available, making it accessible to anyone interested in participating. The inclusivity of this global movement allows people from diverse cultures and belief systems to come together in the shared pursuit of inner peace and unity.
Beyond the designated day, Global Meditation Day inspires many to incorporate meditation into their daily lives. Its impact can be felt throughout the year as individuals continue to prioritize mindfulness and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and the world. By spreading this practice, the potential for positive change amplifies, nurturing a collective consciousness that strives for harmony, compassion, and global well-being.
Global Meditation Day serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential within each individual and the collective impact that can be achieved through stillness and self-reflection. As the world grapples with myriad challenges, this annual event unites people from all walks of life, fostering a shared commitment to personal growth, peace, and global harmony. May 21st stands as a testament to the universal language of meditation, reminding us that in moments of collective stillness, we can discover our common humanity and envision a future built on compassion and understanding.
