Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
TWO more coronavirus patients have died in the last 24 hours in Bangladesh, taking the number of deaths from the infection to eight, Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) said on Saturday (4).
Of them, one was 90-year-old, and the other was 68, said Dr Meerjady Sabrina Flora, director of IEDCR.
One of the deceased was under treatment in Dhaka while another was outside the capital, she said adding that one had heart disease and had stenting done previously and another had history of stroke.
One of the two was also among the nine who tested positive for coronavirus infection in the last 24 hours, she added. Total number of confirmed cases so far is 70.
Among the nine newly-identified patients, two are children under 10, three are aged between 20-30, two between 50-60, one between 60-70, and another a 90-year-old, Dr Meerjady said.
Five of them are family members of returnees from abroad; two have history of coming in contact with COVID-19 patients while the contact histories of the other two patients are still being investigated.
On the other hand, four more patients have recovered, taking the recovery number to 30.
Prof Abul Kalam Azad, director general of Directorate General of Health Services said that a total of 553 samples were collected in the last 24 hours, of which 434 were tested.
The DG reiterated about possible community transmission only on a limited scale in the country, adding that they are increasing tests by the day.
Chef Asma Khan calls for an end to macho kitchens and celebrates older women in professional cooking.
Advocates unionising hospitality and improving working conditions across the industry.
Explains founding the Second Daughters Foundation to support girls’ education in India.
Discusses the political role of food in promoting labour rights and dignity.
Redefining kitchens and leadership
In the latest episode of Shami’s Speakeasy, chef and campaigner Asma Khan joined host Shami Chakrabarti to discuss justice, feminism, race and the politics of food. Chakrabarti described Khan as “not so much a celebrity chef as a revolutionary chef.”
Khan highlighted her all-women team at Darjeeling Express, many of whom are grandmothers, calling it “a powerhouse.” Rejecting the macho culture of celebrity kitchens, she said the average age of women cooking in her kitchen is 50, demonstrating that older women are central to professional cooking.
Unionising hospitality and work-life challenges
Khan spoke candidly about labour conditions in hospitality and the impossibility of perfect work-life balance for shift workers and entrepreneurs. She called for restaurant workers to unionise, reflecting on exploitation during COVID and ongoing staffing pressures: “Without collective action, we can never get anywhere.”
She also shared her approach to parenting and entrepreneurship: “There is no word called ‘balance’ for some of us. The only way out is to forgive yourself and keep going.”
Second Daughters and food as a force for change
As a second daughter, Khan founded the Second Daughters Foundation, supporting girls’ education in India through school meals and practical assistance for those most likely to be kept at home.
Khan also described food as a political tool, using it to “shake the world gently” while emphasising labour, dignity and respect alongside ingredients.
Episode details
Shami’s Speakeasy: Asma Khan is available on all major podcast platforms from 15 October 2025. Additional resources and artwork inspired by the discussion will be shared in the Speakeasy Zine on the show’s website and to subscribers.
Asma Khan is the founder of Darjeeling Express, London, and an advocate for dignity in hospitality and women’s rights. Shami Chakrabarti is a human rights lawyer, legislator, and broadcaster who hosts Shami’s Speakeasy as a forum for honest conversations on values, ethics and social change.
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