I was searching for an online Bengali dictionary that I can use not only to check meanings of Bengali words but also to use it as a spell checker. Then I chanced upon this website, Samsad Bengali-English Dictionary by Sailendra Biswas. The dictionary is quite effective, however you may need few tries to get accustomed. The dictionary is partly funded by the US Dept of Education.

Just finished watching the movie “Freedom Writers”. It is such an intense, moving and at the same time inspiring film that I’d recommend it to everyone who loves movies. Based on a true story about an LA school, the film depicts how a teacher can change the lives of his or her students. Hilary Swank gives an wonderful performance (if I recall correctly, she was nominated for an Oscar for this role) and so does her students. If you haven’t seen the film, pick up a DVD copy and watch it right away.