Month: November 2024

A Fragile Note: A.R. Rahman and Saira Announce Separation After 29 Years

Manish Kumar

A Legacy of Harmony and Now a Pause A.R. Rahman, the “Mozart of Madras,” is synonymous with music that transcends boundaries, creating harmony out of diverse rhythms and melodies. Known for his Oscar-winning work on Slumdog Millionaire and iconic soundtracks from Roja to Bombay, Rahman has been a pillar of creativity, innovation, and humility. His personal life, too, reflected a quiet harmony, shared with his wife Saira for nearly three decades. Yet, even the most beautifully composed symphonies can encounter dissonance. In a poignant turn of events, Rahman and Saira…

Japan’s $26 Billion Ocean Treasure: Minerals Found Near Megalodon Teeth

Manish Kumar

Unearthing Wealth from the Depths of the Ocean Imagine the seabed holding treasures that could power a nation’s economy for a decade. Off the coast of Japan’s Minami-Tori-shima Island, such a treasure trove has been discovered—a vast field of manganese nodules containing cobalt, nickel, and copper worth an estimated $26 billion. These minerals, essential for cutting-edge technologies like electric vehicle (EV) batteries and jet engines, are now poised to reshape Japan’s industrial landscape. Surprisingly, these riches were found near an unusual marker: the fossilized teeth of the prehistoric Megalodon shark.…

The U.S., Ukraine, and the Escalation of Russia’s Hybrid Warfare

Manish Kumar

The U.S. Role in the Russia-Ukraine War Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, the United States has played a pivotal role in supporting Ukraine, acting as a cornerstone of military and diplomatic aid. Through financial assistance, weaponry, and intelligence sharing, the U.S. has significantly strengthened Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression. However, this assistance comes with risks. As Ukraine leverages advanced U.S.-made weaponry, including the recent deployment of ATACMS long-range missiles, concerns grow over potential escalation—not just on the battlefield but in the broader domain of hybrid…

India and Australia: Strengthening Ties for a Prosperous Future

Manish Kumar

Historical Foundations of the Indo-Australian Partnership India and Australia, two vibrant democracies in the Indo-Pacific, have charted a course of mutual cooperation over the decades, reflecting shared values of democracy, rule of law, and respect for sovereignty. Historically, their relationship has evolved from diplomatic formalities to a robust strategic partnership, especially evident in recent years. The collaboration between the two nations spans diverse sectors, from trade and education to defence and renewable energy. The fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2025 marks a pivotal moment to reflect on…

Maharashtra Assembly Elections LIVE: 15.61 per cent voter turnout recorded till 11 am

Manish Kumar

Maharashtra Assembly Elections LIVE: Maharashtra is poised for an intense political showdown between the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the Mahayuti Alliance. Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 LIVE: Voting for 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra is underway today (November 20), with the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance aiming to retain power and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance seeking a strong comeback. Voting will be held till 6 pm on Wednesday. Elaborate security arrangements have been made for polling. A total of 4,136 candidates are in the fray for the fierce contest.…

“Maharashtra Elections 2024: Alternative Documents Accepted for Voting Without Voter ID”

Manish Kumar

Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), people can vote without a physical voter ID card if they bring other relevant documents to the polling booth. Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: Maharashtra will go for high-stakes Assembly Elections on Wednesday (November 20), with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Mayayuti facing an uphill contest against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) to overcome anti-incumbency challenges. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) and other regional parties which are not party of either side – MVA or Mahayuti…

“Pandya Duo in Action: Hardik to Feature in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with Krunal as Captain”

Manish Kumar

Hardik Pandya last played for Baroda in the 2018-19 season in the Ranji Trophy and his previous appearance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was in 2016. Baroda begin their campaign in the domestic T20 tournament against local rivals Gujarat on November 23 in Indore. Former India T20 captain Hardik Pandya is set to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for the first time after becoming an international cricketer in 2016. Hardik was included in Baroda’s squad for the upcoming 2024-25 edition of India’s premier domestic T20 competition and…

“Delhi Elections: Arvind Kejriwal Highlights Criteria for AAP Ticket Distribution”

Manish Kumar

Delhi Elections: Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has provided insights into the party’s strategy for ticket distribution in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Delhi Assembly Elections: Former Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal said tickets for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections will be given to candidates based on their work, win probability, and public opinion. Notably, the elections for all 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly are scheduled to take place in February 2025. ‘There will be no nepotism’ In meetings with AAP workers…

Hong Kong’s Pro-Democracy Sentences: A Blow to Freedoms Amid Global Criticism

Manish Kumar

A Landmark Trial and a Global Concern In a move that has sparked international condemnation, Hong Kong’s High Court recently sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to jail terms ranging from four to ten years under the Beijing-imposed national security law. This landmark trial, seen by many as a crackdown on the city’s fading democratic freedoms, comes amid mounting criticism from Western nations. The case reflects Hong Kong’s shifting political landscape, highlighting tensions between the promise of autonomy and the reality of increasing central control by Beijing. Unprecedented Sentences for Political Activism…

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Nuclear Doctrines, Escalating Tensions, and the Path to Peace

Manish Kumar

A Conflict on the Brink The Russia-Ukraine war has reached its 1,000th day, marked by escalating hostilities and heightened geopolitical tensions. Sparked by Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the conflict has drawn in global powers, shifting the dynamics of international relations. On one hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin has adopted a revised nuclear doctrine to deter Western intervention. On the other, the United States, under President Joe Biden, has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied missiles to strike within Russian territory. These developments reflect a dangerous spiral…