Bangladesh has a rich newspaper culture. Every morning, millions of people read the news. Some prefer Bangla papers. Others like English papers.
In this guide, you will learn about the top 10 newspapers in Bangladesh. We will cover both Bangla and English newspapers. You will know which paper to read for what purpose.
Why Newspapers Still Matter in Bangladesh
Many people now use Facebook and YouTube for news. But newspapers are still important.
Here is why:
- Newspapers check facts carefully
- They give deeper analysis
- They cover local news better
- They are trusted sources
- They help students and researchers
Good newspapers shape public opinion. They hold powerful people accountable.
The Top 10 Newspapers in Bangladesh
1. Prothom Alo
Prothom Alo is the most popular newspaper in Bangladesh. It started in 1998. Today, it sells over 5 lakh copies every day.
Why people love it:
- Easy to read and understand
- Strong investigative reporting
- Covers sports and entertainment well
- Has youth-focused content
- Active on social media
- Great photography and design
Special features:
- Chakri Bakri (job section)
- Education page for students
- Weekly supplements on lifestyle
- Digital edition with videos
Best for: General readers, students, job seekers
Language: Bangla
Website: prothomalo.com
Prothom Alo won many awards for journalism. It is part of the Transcom Group. The paper focuses on young readers and modern issues.
2. The Daily Star
The Daily Star is the top English newspaper in Bangladesh. It began in 1991.
Why people trust it:
- High quality English writing
- International news coverage
- Business and economy focus
- Op-ed articles by experts
- Clean layout and design
Special features:
- Weekend magazine
- Star Youth for students
- Business section with analysis
- Tech and lifestyle pages
Best for: English speakers, professionals, students
Language: English
Website: thedailystar.net
The Daily Star is essential reading for anyone who works in business, education, or international affairs. It maintains high editorial standards.
3. Kaler Kantho
Kaler Kantho is a major Bangla daily. It started in 2010 but grew very fast.
Why it is popular:
- Strong district news coverage
- Religious content section
- Agricultural news for farmers
- Entertainment and sports
- Affordable price
Special features:
- Chakrir Khobor (jobs)
- Agriculture and rural focus
- Islamic content
- Local correspondents everywhere
Best for: Rural readers, religious readers, farmers
Language: Bangla
Website: kalerkantho.com
Kaler Kantho connects with readers outside Dhaka. It covers stories from every district in Bangladesh.
4. Jugantor
Jugantor is one of the oldest and most respected Bangla newspapers. It has been publishing since 1999.
Why people read it:
- Balanced news reporting
- Strong editorial page
- Good crime reporting
- Sports coverage
- Entertainment news
Special features:
- Weekly job circular
- Education supplements
- Fashion and lifestyle
- Regional news from all divisions
Best for: General readers, news enthusiasts
Language: Bangla
Website: jugantor.com
Jugantor maintains traditional journalism values while adapting to modern times.
5. Samakal
Samakal started in 2005. It quickly became a leading daily newspaper.
Why readers choose it:
- Clear and simple language
- Strong local news
- Good sports section
- Entertainment coverage
- Active digital presence
Special features:
- Chakrikhobor (employment)
- Student corner
- Health and wellness section
- Technology updates
Best for: Young professionals, students
Language: Bangla
Website: samakal.com
Samakal focuses on urban middle-class readers. It has modern design and easy navigation.
6. Bangladesh Pratidin
Bangladesh Pratidin is a popular daily that started in 2010.
Why it stands out:
- Massive circulation
- Strong district reporting
- Business news coverage
- Entertainment section
- Quick news updates
Special features:
- Job advertisements
- Real estate section
- Education news
- Cultural events coverage
Best for: Business people, general readers
Language: Bangla
Website: bd-pratidin.com
Bangladesh Pratidin has grown rapidly. It competes directly with the biggest newspapers.
7. Manab Zamin
Manab Zamin is a well-established Bangla daily.
Why people trust it:
- Reliable news reporting
- Political analysis
- Economic coverage
- Social issues focus
- Regional news
Special features:
- Weekly supplements
- Job circular
- Agricultural updates
- Literary content
Best for: Educated middle-class readers
Language: Bangla
Website: mzamin.com
Manab Zamin appeals to readers who want serious journalism and deep analysis.
8. The Daily Ittefaq
The Daily Ittefaq is the oldest newspaper in Bangladesh. It started in 1953.
Why it is historic:
- Played key role in Language Movement
- Supported independence struggle
- Traditional journalism values
- Political coverage
- Cultural preservation
Special features:
- Historical archives
- Political commentary
- Literary section
- Cultural news
Best for: History lovers, older readers, researchers
Language: Bangla
Website: ittefaq.com.bd
Ittefaq represents Bangladeshi journalism history. Many older readers still trust it most.
9. Dhaka Tribune
Dhaka Tribune is a modern English daily. It launched in 2013.
Why it is different:
- Young and fresh approach
- Digital-first strategy
- International perspective
- Lifestyle and culture focus
- Modern design
Special features:
- Weekend magazine
- Tech coverage
- Arts and culture
- Opinion pieces by young writers
Best for: Young professionals, English readers, expatriates
Language: English
Website: dhakatribune.com
Dhaka Tribune targets educated urban youth who want global perspectives on local issues.
10. The Financial Express
The Financial Express focuses on business and economics. It started in 1993.
Why business people read it:
- Detailed economic analysis
- Stock market coverage
- Trade and commerce news
- Banking sector updates
- International business
Special features:
- Daily stock market data
- Economic indicators
- Business interviews
- Financial advice columns
Best for: Business owners, investors, economists
Language: English
Website: thefinancialexpress.com.bd
The Financial Express is essential for anyone serious about business in Bangladesh.
Bangla vs English Newspapers
Bangladesh has newspapers in both languages. Each serves different readers.
Bangla newspapers:
- Reach more people
- Cover local news better
- Use simple language
- Connect with rural areas
- Larger circulation
English newspapers:
- Serve educated class
- Focus on international news
- Better business coverage
- Used in offices and schools
- Smaller but influential readership
Most educated Bangladeshis read both types depending on their needs.
How to Choose Your Newspaper
Different newspapers serve different purposes.
For daily news: Prothom Alo, Kaler Kantho, or The Daily Star
For business: The Financial Express or business sections of major dailies
For jobs: Check Prothom Alo, Kaler Kantho, or Jugantor on Fridays
For English learning: The Daily Star or Dhaka Tribune
For deep analysis: Manab Zamin or The Daily Star editorials
For entertainment: Prothom Alo or Samakal
For agriculture: Kaler Kantho
Try reading different papers for a week. Then choose what fits your needs.
Digital vs Print Newspapers
All major newspapers now have websites and apps.
Print advantages:
- No eye strain
- Better focus
- Can read anywhere
- No internet needed
Digital advantages:
- Instant updates
- Free or cheaper
- Video content
- Easy sharing
- Searchable archives
Many readers now use both. They read print in morning and check digital updates throughout the day.
The Future of Newspapers in Bangladesh
Newspapers are changing fast. Social media creates challenges. But newspapers remain important.
What is changing:
- More people read on phones
- Videos and podcasts added
- Faster news updates
- Social media integration
- Paywalls for premium content
What stays the same:
- Fact-checking standards
- In-depth reporting
- Trusted journalism
- Local news coverage
Good newspapers will survive by adapting while keeping quality high.
Final Thoughts
Bangladesh has excellent newspapers. Prothom Alo leads in circulation. The Daily Star leads in English journalism. Other papers serve specific audiences well.
Reading newspapers keeps you informed. It helps you understand your country. It makes you a better citizen.
Choose a newspaper that matches your needs. Read it regularly. Form your own opinions based on facts.
In an age of fake news and rumors, reliable newspapers matter more than ever.
