Banished from her homeland with a bounty on her head, author Taslima Nasreen has been forced to live in exile for more than a quarter of a century -- but she refuses to bow to the religious fundamentalists that want her dead.
The fiery 58-year-old Bangladeshi, whose bestsellers include A French Lover and Shodh: Getting Even - warns the recent rise of conservative Islam and its dogmas threatens the modern world.
"In Muslim countries, fundamentalist organisations are getting more powerful -- be it Al Shabaab, Al Qaeda or Boko Haram," Nasreen tells AFP from her home in New Delhi where she has been living in exile since 2011.
"Even if you look at Europe, many Islamist fundamentalists are demanding sharia -- Islamic law -- in the name of multiculturalism."
This month tens of thousands took to the streets in Bangladesh and around the Muslim world protesting against France after President Emmanuel Macron said the nation would never renounce its laws permitting blasphemous caricatures.
Tensions have been high since a teacher was killed after showing his class an image of the Prophet Mohammed. Islam forbids such depictions.
Nasreen, who is an atheist, says she agrees with some of France's approach -- such as its controversial ban on Islamic full face veils in public.
"I agree with the ban. Face veils are very dangerous. You need to see who is sitting next to you, [they] could be a killer."
It is a debate she knows firs-thand -- Bangladesh's Muslim hardliners were enraged by her decision to ditch the traditional Muslim dress including the burkha.
- Enraged fanatics -
Nasreen, a qualified doctor, rose to prominence in the 1980s with a series of articles condemning the religious and sexual oppression of women in some Asian countries.
Her subject matter became increasingly controversial -- she wrote about repressive Islamic practices and women's sexual desires, drawing the ire of radicals.
Enraged fanatics attacked bookstores selling her work in Dhaka in 1992 and the following year a 'fatwa' or an Islamic decree was issued against her in reaction to her novel Lajja (Shame) which depicts the persecution of a Hindu family by Muslims.
With a bounty on her head, Nasreen was forced to flee the country and spent the next few years in hiding -- first seeking sanctuary in Europe and then the United States before finally finding long term refuge in India.
She says Bangladesh has been transformed by hardliners, adding that other once moderate nations are at risk -- pointing to Turkey's shift from secularism as a recent example of dramatic societal shift.
"Whoever is critical of Islamic dogmas, they get killed or put behind bars," she explains.
Although India has been largely welcoming of the polemicist, Nasreen concedes religious intolerance has also been rising in what is the world's largest democracy.
"India was more liberal before. I liked India for that. But that has changed... now it is quite difficult, criticism is not tolerated easily.
"But not all people are extremists. If India was that bad I could not have lived here."
- 'They will kill me' -
She was vocal about female sexuality and rape culture long before the #MeToo movement hit the headlines.
India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have come under scrutiny in recent years because of the prevalence of violent sexual attacks and the low conviction rates for such crimes.
"Men have to understand rape is not sex," she insists, recalling how she was sexually assaulted by a famous poet, who she thought was a friend.
The award-winning author, who sometimes goes by Taslima Nasrin, has written more than 40 books, which have been translated in some 30 languages.
One of the bright spots for her was when her memoir, My Girlhood, set against the backdrop of Bangladesh's Liberation War in 1971, was republished this year and earned rave reviews in international publications.
But Nasreen, who has a Swedish passport, knows she may never be able to return to her country of birth.
"I begged and begged when my father was on his death bed (in 2002) but they didn't allow me to see him for one last time. They have illegally prevented me from going back to my own country for 26 years.
"The current (Bangladeshi) government patronises fanatic Islamist organisations. Mosques and madrassas people have become so powerful. They will kill me but I will fight for my right to go back."
40% of participants in a new study said food affects their sleep
Dairy and sweets were linked to worse sleep and more disturbing dreams
Fruit, herbal tea and vegetables were associated with better sleep quality
Authors suggest that lactose intolerance may play a role in dream disturbance
A recent study has explored how food may influence sleep and dreaming, with some participants reporting that certain items — particularly dairy and sweets — disrupted their rest and contributed to nightmares.
Study looked at food, sleep and dreams
The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology on Monday, analysed responses from 1,082 college-aged participants who completed online surveys between January and April 2023. The survey asked about over a dozen food categories, including dairy, meat, fruit, desserts, and spicy foods.
According to the findings, 40.2% of respondents said their eating habits had an impact on their sleep. About 25% stated that at least one food group made their sleep worse, while 20% said that some foods improved it.
Among the foods most commonly associated with disrupted sleep were dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese), desserts and sweets, and spicy dishes. On the other hand, fruit, vegetables, and herbal tea were most often credited with improving sleep quality.
Dairy and sweets linked to disturbing dreams
When asked about the effect of food on dreaming, 5.5% of participants said they noticed a link. Of those, 31% said desserts and sweets triggered nightmares, while 22% blamed dairy.
The study’s authors noted that while the data is based on self-reported experiences and may lack scientific proof, previous research does support the possibility that food can influence sleep patterns.
They added that the connection between dairy and negative dream experiences could be due to gastrointestinal symptoms in people with lactose intolerance, such as bloating or cramps, which may disrupt sleep and affect dream quality.
Limitations of the study
The authors acknowledged potential limitations in their findings. All participants were university students enrolled in psychology courses, meaning they may have had prior knowledge of related topics that could have influenced their responses.
Despite this, the research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that what we eat may affect not only how well we sleep, but how we dream.
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Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas attended Day 3 of Wimbledon 2025
Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas attended day 3 of Wimbledon 2025 on 2 July, joining a host of celebrities at the iconic London event.
The couple were spotted smiling and sharing a rare PDA moment inside the exclusive Parkside Suite at No. 1 Court.
Priyanka also posed with John Cena, her co-star from Heads of State, which hit cinemas a day earlier on 1 July.
Their London appearance comes after a private date night and screening for the Amazon Prime Video action-thriller.
Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra and musician Nick Jonas made a striking appearance at Wimbledon 2025 on Tuesday, 2 July, as they joined a string of celebrities on day 3 of the world-famous tennis tournament. The couple turned heads in coordinated outfits and shared a rare display of affection while seated in the elite Parkside Suite at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.
Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas photographed at the Wimbledon 2025Getty Images
Priyanka Chopra shares Wimbledon moment with Nick Jonas and John Cena
Chopra, dressed in a crisp white sleeveless shirt dress with an A-line cut, matched the classic Wimbledon dress code, while Jonas looked polished in a double-breasted navy blazer, light blue shirt and white trousers. The duo, who live in New York with their daughter Malti, were seen smiling, chatting and holding hands as they watched the match.
Adding to the buzz, Priyanka was also photographed catching up with her Heads of State co-star John Cena. Their action-packed political thriller, also featuring Idris Elba and Jack Quaid, premiered in London just a day earlier on 1 July. In the film, Chopra plays a skilled MI6 agent trying to protect the US President and British Prime Minister amidst a global crisis.
John Cena, Shay Shariatzadeh, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas at Wimbledon 2025Getty Images
Familiar faces return to Wimbledon
Priyanka and Nick are no strangers to the Wimbledon spotlight. The couple attended the event last year too, with Jonas later sharing a sweet photo captioned, “Beautiful day out at the tennis with my ❤️.” Other stars spotted this year included Leslie Mann, Dominic Cooper, Tom Daley and Dave Grohl, adding a celebrity buzz to day 3 of the tournament.
Just hours before their Wimbledon outing, the couple attended a special screening of Heads of State in London. Chopra opted for a dramatic brown fringe dress and wore her hair in a sleek bun with curtain bangs, while Jonas kept it sharp in a navy suit.
Ilya Naishuller, Priyanka Chopra and John Cena attend the special screening for "Head of State" Getty Images
Priyanka on balancing fame and family
In an earlier interview, Chopra opened up about shielding her three-year-old daughter Malti from the public eye. “I’ve developed a tough hide when people talk about me,” she said. “But it’s so painful when they talk about my daughter… this chapter of my life is about her too.” The actress has been selective about appearances, balancing a high-profile career with family time.
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Abhishek Bachchan says Amitabh told him he could not even say a line properly on Sarkar set
Abhishek Bachchan said he was “petrified” during his first scene with Amitabh Bachchan in Sarkar.
After the shoot, Amitabh scolded him in the car, saying, “Dialogue bolna aata nahi hai tumhe.”
The 2005 political thriller marked their first major film together.
Abhishek will next be seen in Kaalidhar Laapata, premiering on 4 July on Zee5.
Abhishek Bachchan has opened up about a nerve-wracking experience from the sets of Sarkar, where his father Amitabh Bachchan gave him a blunt lesson on acting after their very first scene together. Speaking in an interview, Abhishek recalled the tension and pressure he felt on the first day of the shoot back in 2004 and the silence that followed until a sharp comment from his dad shattered it.
Abhishek Bachchan reveals Amitabh crushed him with brutal remark during Sarkar shootGetty Images
Abhishek on filming Sarkar with Amitabh Bachchan
Sharing the memory, Abhishek said, “The first time we shot together was for Sarkar. Ramu [Ram Gopal Varma] said we’d do test shoots and then I could move on to Bunty Aur Babli. I was sweating and panicking. All I had to do was turn around and say ‘Ji?’ but I was shaking.”
That small scene turned into a big moment. After the shoot wrapped, Abhishek waited in his vanity van, hoping to leave after Amitabh. But instead, Amitabh came knocking, suggesting they head home together.
Amitabh Bachchan told me I cannot deliver dialogues Abhishek recalls painful Sarkar momentGetty Images
The silent car ride and a scolding to remember
According to Abhishek, the ride home was filled with complete silence. “He was just staring ahead. When we reached home and the staff got out, he finally turned to me and said, ‘Isiliye maine itne saal mehnat karke tumhe padhaya likhaya? Dialogue bolna aata nahi hai tumhe.’ I felt like I had killed someone. He just destroyed me.”
It was a moment that stayed with him, marking one of his earliest lessons in the industry from someone who demands nothing less than perfection, even if that someone is your father.
Abhishek Bachchan opens up about working with Amitabh Bachchan on SarkarGetty Images
A turning point in their on-screen journey
Sarkar, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, was released in 2005 and went on to become a major hit. Loosely inspired by The Godfather, the film featured Amitabh in a role of political power and Abhishek as his loyal son. The success of the film led to two sequels: Sarkar Raj (2008) and Sarkar 3 (2017).
The real-life father-son dynamics added emotional depth to the film, especially considering how different they were from their on-screen relationship. While the characters bonded through unwavering loyalty, the reality behind the scenes was far more intense, at least in the beginning.
Abhishek Bachchan says Amitabh humiliated him after one line went wrong on Sarkar setGetty Images
What’s next for Abhishek Bachchan
Now, 25 years into his acting career, Abhishek has carved his own path, gradually earning praise for performances in films like Guru, Manmarziyaan, and Dasvi. His next project, Kaalidhar Laapata, will premiere on Zee5 on 4 July.
Abhishek Bachchan says Amitabh left him shaken after first scene together in Sarkar Getty Images
Though the early days were rocky, especially under the towering shadow of a legend like Amitabh Bachchan, this behind-the-scenes story shows just how seriously the Bachchans take their craft, and how a tough first lesson may have set the tone for Abhishek’s journey in cinema.
Have you ever noticed dark patches or a musty smell wafting from your bathroom ceiling? You’re not alone. Mold is a silent intruder in many homes, especially in humid areas like bathrooms, where ventilation is poor. It’s not just unsightly—it can also trigger health problems, particularly for young children, elders, and those with asthma or allergies.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to get mold off bathroom ceiling areas effectively and safely. We’ll also explore what causes mold on bathroom ceiling surfaces and how families—especially in multi-generational or apartment-style homes—can prevent it from coming back.
What Causes Mold on Bathroom Ceilings?
To understand how to tackle mold, we first need to understand why it appears.
Mold spores are always around us, but they need the right conditions to grow. Bathrooms often check all the boxes:
Excess humidity from hot showers or baths
Poor airflow or no ventilation
Ceiling moisture due to condensation
Infrequent cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach places.
Fact: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to indoor mold can lead to respiratory infections, sinus issues, and worsen asthma symptoms.
How to Get Mold Off Bathroom Ceiling: Step-by-Step
You don’t need harsh chemicals to remove mold effectively. Many families prefer natural, affordable solutions.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda
A spray bottle
Scrub brush or old toothbrush
Protective gear (gloves, goggles, face mask).
Step 2: Apply a Natural Cleaning Solution
Spray white vinegar directly onto the moldy area. Let it sit for 1 hour. For tough patches, sprinkle baking soda on top and scrub gently with a brush.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry Thoroughly
Wipe the area with warm water and a clean cloth. Make sure it dries fully—use a fan or open windows if possible.
Step 4: Repeat Weekly Until Gone
Even small mold spots can spread. Repeat the process weekly until the area stays clear for good.
Is Mold on the Ceiling Dangerous?
While not all molds are toxic, even common household types can cause:
Allergic reactions (sneezing, skin rashes)
Respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing)
Long-term complications for people with weak immune systems.
South Asian households, where multiple generations often share space, should be particularly mindful—protecting young children and elders is key.
How to Prevent Mold From Coming Back
Knowing how to get mold off bathroom ceiling is just one part of the solution. Prevention is the real game-changer.
Improve Ventilation
The biggest culprit in mold formation is poor ventilation. Install or upgrade your bathroom’s airflow system. Aceiling extactor fan can help remove excess moisture and prevent ceiling condensation from forming.
Keep Humidity Levels Below 60%
Use a hygrometer to measure humidity. If it’s too high:
Open windows after showers
Run a dehumidifier
Leave the door open when not in use.
Wipe Down Surfaces Daily
Ceilings may not be easy to reach, but routine cleaning—even with a mop or long-handled cloth—can make a difference.
Use Mold-Resistant Paint
If you’re renovating or repainting, choose paints with mold-inhibiting properties for extra protection.
Cultural Considerations: Mold in Multi-Generational Homes
Many families in the South Asian community live in homes where bathrooms are shared among multiple people. With daily hot showers, cooking steam from nearby kitchens, and limited airflow, mold can form quickly.
Sharing preventive responsibilities—like switching on fans, wiping surfaces, and airing out the room—can help keep everyone healthy.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to get mold off bathroom ceiling areas is a practical life skill, especially for new homeowners or renters in humid environments. By tackling both the symptoms and the root causes—like poor airflow and ceiling moisture—you can create a safer, healthier home.
Prevention is always better than a cure, and with tools like a ceiling extractor fan, natural cleaning agents, and consistent habits, mold doesn’t stand a chance.
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Users were quick to turn to alternative social media platforms to express frustration
Over 200 user reports flag issues with X (formerly Twitter)
“Twitter down” trends as users turn to other platforms to share complaints
DownDetector confirms spike in outage data within 10-minute window
Site monitors disruptions in real-time using user reports and online signals
The social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced a wave of user-reported problems on Tuesday, with hundreds posting complaints online under the trending phrase “Twitter down”.
Outage reports spike on DownDetector
According to monitoring website DownDetector, 214 reports were registered within a 10-minute span. The surge in complaints points to a likely service disruption, although no official comment has yet been made by X.
Users were quick to turn to alternative social media platforms to express frustration. One user wrote: “Twitter is down again,” echoing a sentiment shared widely online.
What is DownDetector?
DownDetector is an independent platform that tracks service outages across major digital services, including X, Instagram, Facebook, and Virgin Media. It identifies potential problems when report numbers exceed expected levels for that time of day.
In addition to direct user submissions, the site also gathers data from social media and other sources to confirm issues in real time.
Once an incident is detected, users can view which functions are most affected and whether the issue is isolated to specific regions. A live map highlights potential outage hotspots.
The service describes itself as a tool “for when services don’t work”, encouraging users to contribute their experiences to help track wider disruptions.
As “Twitter down” trends again, affected users are urged to monitor status updates through reliable channels like DownDetector while the platform works to restore normal service.