Articles by Unknown

Politics

WIN threatens Court action against Speaker over non convening of meeting to elect Opposition Leader

The We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, which is the main opposition party in the National Assembly has dispatched a pre-action letter to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, warning that failure to convene a meeting within 14 days to elect the Leader of the Opposition will result in legal action. Through their attorney, Siand Dhurjon, the 16 WIN Members of Parliament, told the Speaker in the letter that there is nothing stopping him from convening a meeting of the Opposition Members of Parliament to elect a Leader of the Opposition, which is a Constitutional position. The Attorney said the Speaker needs to take all steps necessary to convene a meeting among the non-governmental members of the National Assembly for the purpose of electing the Leader of the Opposition under Article 184 (1) of the Constitution within 14 days. His failure to do so could lead to proceedings in the High Court, the Attorney warned. Dhurjon said during the first sitting of the 13th Parliament on November 3, the Speaker was written to on the issue by the members of WIN, and a request was made for a meeting to be convened the very day to elect the Opposition Leader, but to no avail. He said based on a verbal exchange between MP Natasha Singh-Lewis and the Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, the Speaker while indicating that the meeting would not have been held on November 3, reportedly said “it doesn’t have to wait until the next sitting.” To date, no such meeting has been held. Dhurjon, in correspondence to the Speaker, said there was nothing stopping him from calling the meeting. “It should be noted that there was no impediment to your convening such meeting on 3rd November 2025 as all of the non-governmental Members of Parliament were present at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre and lingered long after the sitting in the building for political and social purposes,” Dhurjon wrote. MP Singh-Lewis, he said, had also written the Speaker subsequently, requesting an update, however, there has been no response. Dhurjon said the Leader of the Opposition is a key constitutional officeholder, who has a number of important constitutional responsibilities under the law. “It is inconceivable that the Constitution could have ever contemplated that your unqualified and mandatory obligation under Article 184 (1) of the Constitution could be unduly delayed to some uncertain time in the unknown future,” Dhurjon said. He urged the Speaker to act promptly with all reasonable speed commensurate to the importance of the public functions of the Leader of the Opposition. Calls to the Speaker of the National Assembly by News Source today were futile. However, the Clerk, Sherlock Isaacs told News Source that he was not informed of the latest correspondence from WIN. Isaacs said a date has not been set for the next Sitting of the National Assembly, and he was unable to indicate whether a date had been set for the convening of a meeting to elect the Leader of the Opposition.

4 days ago

World

Financial Intelligence Unit notes increase in suspicious financial activities related to fraud in 2024

The Financial Intelligence Unit is reporting an increase in suspicious transactions last year, when compared to 2023. The majority of those transactions are related to fraud. According to Section 18(4) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, a reporting entity such as a bank or a financial institution must send suspicious transactions to the FIU whenever it suspects or has reasonable grounds to suspect that funds or a transaction or attempted transaction are connected to the proceeds of criminal activity, money laundering or terrorist financing offences. In its 2024 Annual Report, the FIU said that majority of the suspicious transactions reported were related to fraud and structuring transactions. “In 2024, the FIU Guyana received 208 Suspicious transactions (STRs), compared to 180 received in 2023, representing a 15.6% increase. The two most commonly cited suspicious activities in STRs received were general fraud, and structuring transactions indicating a continued trend of fraudulent and structuring activities as key drivers of suspicious financial behaviour. Together, these two types of suspicious activities accounted for 39.4% of all STRs submitted to the FIU in 2024,” the FIU said. Some sixty cases of fraud were reported last year up from twenty-eight the previous year and twenty-two structuring transactions, which were up from 20 the previous year. The FIU said while there was a 15.6% rise in the number of suspicious transactions reported in 2024, the overall value of those transactions fell by over 90%. “This was driven by the fact that most of the fraud-related STRs originated from the subsector of Payment Service Providers (PSPs), where the individual transaction values are relatively lower, when compared to transactions and financial activity from other regulated sectors,” the FIU stated. Additionally, the FIU said it disseminated twenty (20) financial intelligence reports to eleven (11) counterpart FIUs and one (1) international organization, in accordance with established international cooperation frameworks. Those reports are linked to suspected crimes including money laundering, related predicate offences and terrorist financing. The estimated total value of the transactions covered in those reports was approximately G$281.6 Billion.

4 days ago

Politics

As Send system faces 'collapse' - what does it mean?

As council leaders warn the special educational needs and disabilities (Send) system for children in England faces "total collapse" - what does Send mean? The County Councils Network, which represents some of England's largest local authorities, said councils had deficits which will reach £4.4bn a year by the end of this parliament in 2029 and said the government must not "keep ducking" reforms. Reforms to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (Send) system in England have been delayed by the government until next year. Earlier this month parents laid shoes outside council offices as part of a protest about "failed or forgotten" children with special educational needs and disabilities Here's Emily Hudson from Politics South to explain.

4 days ago

Technology

Instagram cracks the code on iPhone video brilliance

MUMBAI: Every iPhone video carries a secret ingredient: tiny packets of data that tell screens exactly how bright and vivid to display footage. For three years, Instagram binned them. Not anymore. Chris Ellsworth, Cosmin Stejerean and Hassene Tmar—engineers at Meta—have cracked a thorny problem that made high dynamic range (HDR) videos look drab on Instagram's iOS app, particularly when viewed in dim light or at low screen brightness. The culprits were two pieces of metadata embedded in iPhone recordings: Dolby Vision, which enhances colour, brightness and contrast, and ambient viewing environment (amve), which adjusts rendering based on lighting conditions. Since 2022, Instagram has supported HDR video. But its encoding pipeline, built on FFmpeg, an open-source tool, stripped out both metadata types. The result? Pictures that looked nothing like their creators intended.The fix required surgical precision across three stages of video processing. First, the team convinced FFmpeg's developers to add amve support in 2024. The data proved remarkably consistent—every frame carried identical values—allowing a quick workaround whilst proper support landed. Dolby Vision proved trickier. iPhones encode video in HEVC format using profile 8.4, but Instagram delivers AV1 and VP9 codecs instead. Meta collaborated with Dolby and FFmpeg developers to implement profile 10, allowing Dolby Vision metadata to travel within AV1 streams. They also built custom extraction tools to feed metadata into Apple's display layer, since Instagram decodes video independently rather than using Apple's standard player. Then came a nasty surprise. Initial tests showed viewers watched less video with Dolby Vision enabled. The metadata added roughly 100 kilobits per second to file sizes—enough to slow loading times and send impatient scrollers elsewhere. Meta's solution: implement a compressed format that slashed overhead to 25 kbps, requiring another 2,000 lines of code for compression and decompression. The second test vindicated the effort. Viewers spent more time watching HDR videos, particularly in low-light conditions where proper metadata reduced eye strain. Instagram for iOS now delivers Dolby Vision metadata on all AV1 encodings derived from iPhone HDR uploads, making it Meta's first app with full support. Facebook Reels is next in line. The broader web remains a problem child. Browser and display support for Dolby Vision is patchy, meaning most readers cannot see the difference on this page. For that, you will need an iPhone and Instagram.Three years to fix discarded data. But for anyone squinting at their screen in bed, scrolling through Reels at 2am, it matters rather a lot.

4 days ago

Health

Bengaluru Authorities Shut Down 14 Illegal Paying Guest Accommodations

In Bengaluru, authorities have shut down 14 paying guest accommodations for operating illegally in residential areas. These establishments violated the General Building Area (GBA) Act, 2024, by not adhering to the stipulated conditions and regulations. D.S. Ramesh, Commissioner of East City Corporation, stated that health officials have been instructed to conduct a special drive against these illegal operations to ensure public health and safety.Focus on ComplianceThe crackdown targeted PGs in Mahadevapura and KR Puram constituencies. Locations like SVK PG in Pattandur Agrahara and Vamsi Krishna PG near ITPL Back Gate were affected. Other affected areas include Lakshminarayanapuras Dwell Co-Living PG and Royal Home Stays PG in Prashanth Layout, Whitefield. The initiative aims to enforce compliance with business licensing requirements.During a special campaign from November 10 to 15, business licenses were issued across 17 ward offices within the corporations jurisdiction. A total of 466 entrepreneurs paid Rs. 25,52,800 under the Single Window system. They received their licenses on the same day without any intermediaries involved, according to the commissioner.Streamlined Licensing ProcessThe East City Corporation has set up a system where business licenses are granted on the same day essential documents like commercial lease agreements and electricity bills are submitted. Special camps will be organised in commercial areas alongside the 17 wards to ensure transparent and efficient service delivery for businesses.Health officers from Mahadevapura and KR Puram divisions are actively involved in this operation. Teams comprising health supervisors and senior health inspectors are working diligently on this special campaign against unauthorised PG operations.The commissioner emphasised that these measures aim to provide citizen-friendly services swiftly while maintaining transparency in business operations within the city limits.

4 days ago

Technology

Red Fort blast: Bomber's 'co-conspirator' brought to court

The National Investigation Agency on Tuesday produced before a Delhi court, Jasir Bilal, an active co-conspirator of suicide bomber Umar un Nabi, in connection with the Red Fort car blast that claimed 13 lives, officials said on Monday. A resident of Qazigund in Anantnag, Wani was arrested in Srinagar on Monday for allegedly providing technical support for carrying out terror attacks by modifying drones and attempting to make rockets ahead of the bomb blast, the agency said in a statement. Wani was produced in the court of Principal District and Sessions Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna. The agency is likely to seek his custody. In a statement on Monday, the NIA termed Wani an active co-conspirator behind the attack, who worked closely with the terrorist, Umar un Nabi, to plan the terror carnage. PTI

4 days ago

Technology

India’s first sleep solutions expo to debut in Mumbai

MUMBAI: India’s sleep economy is about to get a jolt. World of Sleep, billed as the country’s first consumer-led platform dedicated to personalised sleep solutions, will make its debut in Mumbai next year. The event, which aims to put the spotlight on sleep as a pillar of overall health, will run from 27 to 29 March 2026 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre. The World Health Organisation has called poor sleep a global health pandemic, underscoring its central role in human well-being. With sleep deficits rising across India, World of Sleep seeks to help consumers understand and improve every aspect of their nightly rest, from medical conditions and lifestyle habits to mattresses, pillows and bedroom environments. The exhibition will pull together sleep essentials, sleep science, sleep technology, wellness, design and brands under one roof. Visitors will be able to try live demonstrations of mattresses, pillows, bedding, smart lighting and cooling solutions; attend workshops on the link between sleep and heart and brain health; and explore innovations including sleeping pods, circadian lighting systems, sound therapy and tech-driven diagnostic tools. Wellness zones will offer digital detox, meditation, yoga and breathwork sessions, while curated spaces will present holistic solutions spanning sleep furniture, environment optimisation and specialist health services. Managing director of World of Sleep Arun Roongta said sleep remains deeply personal and often neglected, which is why the platform aims to help people explore and understand it more fully for healthier living. World of Sleep is conceptualised by Texzone, organisers of HGH India, which brings decades of industry experience in textiles, fashion, home and lifestyle to this new foray into the wellness sector. The initiative marks a strategic push into India’s fast-growing sleep market. As hyperconnected lifestyles blur the line between day and night, World of Sleep hopes to spark a national rethink. With science, design and cutting-edge technology converging in one space, the platform looks set to shake India awake to the benefits of better, deeper, smarter sleep.

4 days ago

Entertainment

Daniel Dae Kim to front CNN’s new travel series K-Everything

SOUTH KOREA: CNN Original Series has tapped Daniel Dae Kim to lead and executive produce K-Everything, a new host-led travel series charting South Korea’s global cultural surge. The four-part show, produced by CNN’s APAC based Global Productions teams, will air next year as part of the network’s 2026 Originals slate. Kim said he was thrilled to explore a country that has transformed into a cultural and economic powerhouse, calling the partnership with CNN “a genuine joy”. K-Everything follows Kim from Busan to Seoul as he unpacks how South Korea came to dominate global pop culture, fuelling trends in music, food, TV and film. The series will feature appearances from some of the biggest names shaping the nation’s creative boom. Group senior vice president, GM APAC and global head of productions at CNN International Ellana Lee said the series pairs Kim’s curiosity and cultural insight with CNN’s ambition to deliver globally resonant storytelling. Kim is known for Lost, Hawaii Five-O, Avatar: The Last Airbender and Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon. This year he starred in and executive produced Butterfly, filmed entirely in South Korea, and appeared in Netflix hit Kpop Demon Hunters, now the platform’s most watched film of all time. He was nominated for best lead actor at the 2025 Tony Awards for Yellow Face and produced ABC’s The Good Doctor through his company 3AD. His advocacy work includes testimony that helped pass the Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act and he recently completed a term on the White House’s Commission for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. Executive producers on K-Everything include Kim, Amy Entelis, Lee, Katie Hinman, Jon Jensen and Ryan Smith. Hyundai Motor Company, one of South Korea’s largest corporations, sponsors the series. Kim is represented by UTA, Linden Entertainment and Gang Tyre. K-Everything has all the makings of CNN’s next big cultural breakout and Kim looks set to drive it home at full throttle.

4 days ago

Entertainment

SRK Film Fest extended after fan frenzy

MUMBAI: You know a superstar still rules the screen when a festival meant to last two weeks starts behaving like a blockbuster refusing to leave theatres. That is exactly what happened when PVR INOX rolled out its Shah Rukh Khan Film Festival and fans turned it into a full scale celebration of cinema, nostalgia and collective joy. Launched on 31 October, the festival brought back some of SRK’s most beloved titles including Om Shanti Om, Devdas, Dil Se, Main Hoon Na, Chennai Express, Jawan and Kabhi Haan Kabhi Na. What followed was a nationwide burst of excitement. Full houses, standing ovations and aisles packed with fans dancing, singing and recreating iconic scenes turned screenings into cultural events of their own. The response was so overwhelming that PVR INOX extended the festival beyond 14 November. From cosplay tributes to viral reels, every show sparked fresh waves of fan celebration. Social media only amplified the frenzy as videos of cheering crowds and teary eyed fans spread across platforms and transformed each screening into national news. The festival is part of PVR INOX’s continuing effort to bring landmark films back to the big screen and introduce classics to a new generation. So far, more than 3500 shows have been hosted across multiple cities, with titles like Om Shanti Om, Devdas, Dil Se, Main Hoon Na and Chennai Express now running longer due to public demand. The lineup offered something for every mood. Chennai Express delivered its trademark humour and high energy action, while Devdas returned with its lavish tragedy. Dil Se drew viewers back into its haunting romance, Jawan showcased SRK at his action packed best, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Na reminded audiences of his most endearing early performance, and Main Hoon Na and Om Shanti Om brought back the full scale masala spectacle that only Hindi cinema can deliver. Booking details and theatre listings are available on the official PVR INOX app and website, for anyone ready to join the celebration that clearly has no intention of slowing down.

4 days ago

Health

Delhi blast: J-K police inspect lockers of doctors

In the wake of several doctors being suspected of their involvement in the Delhi blast case, Jammu and Kashmir Police and hospital administration inspected the lockers of staff and doctors at Sri Maharaja Gulab Singh Hospital in Jammu. Medical Superintendent at the hospital, Dr Dara Singh, said that such checks have intensified after the blast near the Red Fort in the national capital, which killed 15 people and left several others injured on November 10. The hospital administration has formed a committee of four members to conduct the checks. We were already conducting this exercise, but it has been intensified after the Delhi blast. Today, too, we broke the lock of an almirah in the presence of security. We have formed a committee of four members for this, Dr Dara Singh said. -- ANI

4 days ago

World

Odisha Launches Eco Retreat Initiative At Six Scenic Locations

Odishas Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, recently unveiled the Eco Retreat Odisha 2025-26 at the Odisha Parab event in Bengaluru. This initiative focuses on six picturesque locations: Satkosia, Bhitarkanika, Daringbadi, Hirakud, Putsil, and Sonapur. Each site offers a unique combination of adventure tourism, cultural experiences, and high-end hospitality.The Eco Retreat promises an unforgettable journey through serene landscapes and luxurious glamping accommodations. Visitors can enjoy rich cultural trails and authentic local cuisines. The destinations showcase Odishas natural beauty, from Satkosias scenic gorge to Bhitarkanikas pristine beach.Adventure and Culture AwaitEach location provides a curated mix of activities that include luxury camping and thrilling watersports. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the ecological and cultural richness of Odisha. The event aims to offer a memorable experience for all who attend.This retreat not only showcases the natural beauty of Odisha but also promotes its cultural heritage. By combining adventure with culture and luxury with nature, it presents an opportunity for visitors to explore the states hidden gems. PM Modi To Assess Mumbai ndash;Ahmedabad Bullet Train Work In GujaratCommitment to Global StandardsThe Eco Retreat 2025 ndash;26 is committed to enhanced safety measures and sustainability practices. These standards are aligned with global best practices to ensure an exceptional visitor experience. The initiative aims to attract tourists by offering unique experiences that highlight the states diverse offerings.Deputy CM Parida expressed her excitement on social media: Delighted to inaugurate Eco Retreat Odisha 2025 at six scenic locations- #Satkosia, #Hirakud, #Bhitarkanika, #Sonapur, #Putsil, and #Daringbadi through virtual mode from the venue of Odisha Parab at Bengaluru. Eco Retreat Odisha offers a truly unforgettable experience, from serene natural landscapes and premium glamping stays to rich cultural trails and authentic local cuisines. Come, explore the magic of Odisha, where every destination tells a new story of beauty.The event is designed to leave a lasting impression on visitors by providing them with an immersive experience that combines natures tranquility with cultural richness. It invites everyone to discover the stories each destination has to tell.

4 days ago

Technology

Dreaded Naxal Hidma was killed 12 days before HM's deadline

Madavi Hidma, the dreaded Maoists commander, was killed by security forces 12 days before the November 30 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate the most wanted Naxalite, sources said on Tuesday. Security forces killed the 44-year-old Naxal leader in the dense Pullagandi forests located at the tri-junction of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. The Union home minister had set a deadline of March 31, 2026, for the eradication of the Maoist problem from the country. At a security review meeting, Shah also told the top security officials engaged in anti-Naxal operations to eliminate Hidma before November 30, and he was killed 12 days before this deadline, a source privy to the home ministers diktat. Sources also said that the way the operations against the Naxals are underway, the Left-wing extremism is likely to be over ahead of the home ministers March deadline. Born in Sukma in 1981, Hidma was the commander of a battalion of the Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) and a member of the Maoist Central Committee. He was believed to be the only tribal member from Bastar to be part of this top leadership group. His direct involvement was found in more than 26 major Naxal attacks, making him one of Indias most feared insurgent leaders. PTI

4 days ago

World

Readathon by neOwn turns kids into page-turning pros

MUMBAI: This Children’s Day, books were judged by their readers as neOwn’s Readathon turned living rooms across India into joyful little libraries. The virtual celebration proved that when children read together, stories travel farther than any Wi Fi signal. Hosted across two lively sessions, the three hour event brought young readers into a shared world of stories, conversations and quiet excitement. Screens acted as story circles, homes became reading zones and children discovered that stillness could be the most spirited fun of all. The Readathon welcomed a delightful line up of chief guests. Authors Mallika Ravikumar, Vardhini Amin and Gulshan Randhawa Advani, storyteller Rinky Ahuja from Jammu and educator Srilakshmi R encouraged children to let their imaginations wander freely. Through readings, reflections and playful activities, they reminded participants that stories do more than entertain. They empower, comfort and inspire. Between twenty minute silent reading sprints, families took the Million Readers Movement pledge and committed to one weekly reading action that keeps curiosity alive. Across Zoom screens, a simple rhythm emerged. Pages turning, faces glowing and children discovering worlds tucked between words. neOwn founder Kranti Gada said, “When I was a child, books were my window to the world. They sparked my imagination, taught me empathy and gave me dreams that still guide me today. That is the spirit behind Readathon, to give today’s children what stories once gave me. We wanted to show that reading does not have to be solitary. It can be shared, celebrated and passed on.” As the final pages closed and the screens dimmed, the energy lingered. The event may have ended, but its purpose carries on in every home that chooses to read together. For neOwn, this was more than a Children’s Day celebration. It was a gentle nudge to remind families that reading habits grow when stories become a part of everyday life.

4 days ago

Technology

Monopoly levels up with India’s App Banking launch

MUMBAI: Looks like Monopoly just took a chance card for the future, and it paid off handsomely. As the iconic board game marks 90 years of global fame, Hasbro India has unveiled the Monopoly App Banking Edition, bringing a cashless, tech-savvy upgrade to a classic loved across generations. The new edition blends nostalgia with digital ease to suit India’s fast-growing app-first players. Born in an era of paper notes and pocket bankers, Monopoly has evolved with each generation, and now steps confidently into the cashless age. In this version, paper currency takes a bow as a free mobile app steps in as the Banker. Players tap their bank cards to buy properties, pay rent and track balances, turning every move into a seamless digital transaction. The gameplay remains familiar, only faster, smarter and better suited to how India plays and pays today. Designed for two to six players aged eight and up, the set features scannable property cards, new tokens, bank cards and a foldable board. Digital animations, mini-games and snappier playtime keep the excitement high while preserving the charm of the original. Hasbro India head of India and southeast Asia Nilay Verma said that Monopoly has long been a shared ritual in Indian homes and continues to inspire connection and creativity. He added that the 90-year milestone offered the perfect moment to reimagine the game for a new era, blending fond memories with modern play. To extend the celebration beyond the board, Hasbro is hosting immersive experiences at Hamleys stores, where families can enjoy live play zones and interactive challenges. The brand is also joining hands with Sunday Bricks to bring Monopoly-inspired workshops to classrooms across India, highlighting how play can nurture skills such as negotiation, teamwork and resilience. As Monopoly enters its tenth decade, the App Banking Edition invites India’s digital generation to roll the dice on a refreshed classic, proving once again that the joy of play never goes out of style.

4 days ago

Technology

Pratik Bane steers his way to Starcom India

MUMBAI: Pratik Bane has swapped his perch at FCB Kinnect for a director's chair at Starcom India, where he's now steering media planning and strategy for a clutch of heavyweight brands. The move came in September. Bane previously handled several accounts at FCB Kinnect including TVS, Van Heusen, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Canara Robeco Mutual Fund and Skechers as an account director media. At FCB Kinnect, where he spent five years and nine months, Bane climbed from manager of media strategy to director of the data centre of excellence. In his final role, he drove data-driven strategies across the FCB Group in India, wielding tools like Mintel, GWI, SimilarWeb and Comscore to shape new business pitches and brand reviews. The Mumbai-based strategist brings an arsenal of digital marketing skills honed across affiliate marketing, search engine advertising, display remarketing and paid social. His toolkit spans Google Analytics, Google Ads, Facebook Business Manager and Google Tag Manager. Before FCB Kinnect, he cut his teeth at Performics India managing affiliate and search marketing, and earlier still at Crisil Global Research & Analytics, where he ran sales and marketing for the Asia Pacific region. Armed with an MBA in marketing and multiple certifications, Bane now faces the task of crafting campaigns that marry data with creativity. His passion, he says, is creating work that drives growth and value. With Starcom's resources and his roster of blue-chip clients, he'll get ample opportunity to prove it.

4 days ago

Technology

Indriya’s bridal lines shine with regional radiance

MUMBAI: Wedding season just got a little brighter, and India is gleaming from region to region. Indriya, Aditya Birla Jewellery, has unveiled its new suite of regional bridal collections, crafted for brides who wear heritage with pride and dream in the colours of their culture. Announced nationally on 18 November, the four collections: Anantara, Padma Ranjini, Raasvi and Rajashree, draw inspiration from the artistic, architectural and spiritual legacies of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Each range is designed as an heirloom in the making, blending timeless techniques with contemporary elegance. Anantara, created for brides in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, is steeped in the sacred detailing of Dravidian temple sculptures, especially the Hoysala marvels at Chennakeshava and Keshava Temples. Its three layers echo celestial symbolism, from Garuda Haar and Kaasu Maala elements to the divine impressions of Ganesha and Lakshmi. Padma Ranjini, tailored for Rajasthan, transforms the region’s royal artistry into modern bridal splendour. Lotus motifs from the Padma Gate, Pichwai influences, red and white jadai work, and talismanic charms come together across the Padma Aad, Timaniya and Hamel to create a set steeped in meaning and majesty. Rajashree, crafted for Maharashtra, pays tribute to the state’s regal craftsmanship. Chandrakor Tilak, the mighty simha of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the sacred Saaj Haar form the trio that reflects dharma, strength and cultural devotion. Raasvi, celebrating Gujarat, blends joy, ritual and heritage through layers inspired by temple carvings, toran tassels, Kalighati artistry and the Pankhi motif. Gold chains, floral cascades and ruby jadai create a luminous statement for the vibrant Gujarati bride. Indriya CEO Sandeep Kohli, said the collections honour India’s cultural richness and deepen the brand’s connection with brides who value authenticity and craftsmanship. Head of marketing and visual merchandising Shantiswarup Panda, added that the designs bring a bride’s long-held dreams to life through storytelling rooted in heritage. Head of design Abhishek Rastogi, said the vision was to capture the soul of India’s artistic traditions through intricate kaarigari and contemporary refinement. With craftsmanship this evocative, every piece seems to whisper its own love song. Dil abhi bhara nahin.

4 days ago

Technology

Honour roll grows as adtech awards double down on digital excellence

MUMBAI: When the industry’s brightest innovations walk into a room, they deserve a spotlight and ad:tech HONOURS 2026 is rolling out one big enough to light up the entire marketing landscape. After a breakthrough debut, the awards return next year with a sharper focus, a bigger canvas, and a bold ambition: to become the definitive scoreboard for technology-driven excellence in Indian marketing. Organised in partnership with the International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter, the 2026 edition aims to reward the most transformative uses of Martech, Adtech, data, platforms, and creative innovation reshaping how brands think, build, and perform. And this time, they’re taking centre stage literally. Recognising the rising prestige of the awards, the ceremony will now kick off day one of ad:tech New Delhi, placing the celebration right at the heart of India’s most influential marketing and technology gathering. If the debut edition set expectations, 2026 smashes the ceiling. The awards have expanded from 10 to 22 categories, a sweeping new framework reflecting a marketing ecosystem where boundaries blur and technology accelerates everything. The broadened slate covers: ● Martech & Adtech innovation ● Content ecosystems and commerce ● Platform ingenuity ● Creator-led excellence ● AI, data, and performance marketing breakthroughs The intent is clear: scale the recognition to match the industry’s evolving complexity, rewarding brands, agencies, platforms, publishers, creators, and tech enablers that push the discipline forward. “Expanding the awards from 10 to 22 categories reflects how rapidly new-age platforms, tools, and solutions are redefining modern marketing,” said ad:tech India country head Jaswant Singh. “HONOURS 2026 captures this evolution acknowledging innovation that drives real business impact.” The first edition already laid down a solid foundation, attracting strong participation across the ecosystem. Winners in 2025 including The Trade Desk, ARM Worldwide, Publicis, Social Beat, Tyroo, Trackier and others showcased measurable impact, creative use of platforms, and technology-led results. Their performance shaped the expanded framework for 2026, raising the bar for what modern marketing excellence should look like. For IAA, the collaboration continues to be anchored in a shared mission. “Our partnership with ad:tech reflects our commitment to elevating India’s marketing ecosystem,” said IAA India Chapter president Abhishek Karnani. “As we step into the second edition of HONOURS, we are proud to strengthen this platform that champions innovation, collaboration, and long-term industry growth.” The awards are designed to reward more than creativity; they recognise true business impact, the kind that moves metrics, markets, and mindsets. The judging philosophy focuses on technology application, innovation, strategic clarity, and measurable effectiveness across the full value chain. The ad:tech HONOURS 2026 ceremony will bring together CMOs, founders, creators, platform leaders, and tech innovators for a night dedicated to celebrating breakthrough work. Key details: ● Nominations: Now open ● Honours Night: 18 March 2026 ● Venue: Yashobhoomi Convention Centre (IICC Dwarka), New Delhi ● Drinks reception: From 6 pm ● Access: Every shortlisted entry gets two complimentary passes; ad:tech 2026 VIP Pass holders also gain entry With the spotlight shifting to Day One, 22 categories ready to spotlight India’s best, and a platform designed for the future of marketing, HONOURS 2026 isn’t just returning, it’s levelling up. For more information please visit www.iaaindiachapter.org

4 days ago

Entertainment

Garg and glory as News18 tunes into a tribute for Zubeen’s legacy

MUMBAI: Some voices don’t just fill the air, they fill an entire people. And when Assam remembers Zubeen Garg, it doesn’t hum along, it breathes in rhythm. News18 Assam Northeast is set to celebrate the birth anniversary of one of the region’s most treasured artistes with a special tribute telecast on 18 and 19 November, airing exclusively from 7:50 pm onwards. The two-day programme promises to immerse viewers in the life, music, and unmatched cultural impact of a man whose songs continue to echo across generations. Zubeen Garg wasn’t merely a chart-topping singer; he was a creative force who shaped the sonic and emotional landscape of Assam for more than three decades. Composer, performer, actor, activist his influence spilled far beyond the stage, evolving into a social conscience that spoke for the Assamese spirit. To honour his legacy, News18 Assam Northeast hosted a celebratory evening on 14 November in Guwahati, gathering musicians, admirers, and cultural stalwarts. What unfolded was less an event and more a collective exhale, a community remembering the man whose melodies stitched together their festivals, heartbreaks, rebellions, and quiet nights. The evening saw soul-stirring performances from some of the industry’s most respected voices. Mahalakshmi Iyer and Joi Barua revisited Zubeen Garg’s most beloved tracks with emotional depth, while an ensemble of Assam’s leading artistes including Diganta Bharati, Pranamika Goswami, Bhaswatii Bharati, Rupam Bhuyan, Barnali Kalita, Sajan Nayak, Mousam Gogoi, Arundhati Bhanupriya, Papori Gogoi, Prashanta Rajkhowa, Janam Kashyap, Alangkrita–Rupangkrita, Surekha Chetri, Minakshi Kalita, Nahid Afrin, and Panchuna Rabha delivered heartfelt renditions that celebrated his legacy across genres and generations. Every performance became a reminder of why Zubeen Garg is not only adored but deeply woven into Assam’s cultural fabric. His songs from anthems that electrified Bihu grounds to ballads that travelled quietly through bedroom radios form a soundtrack that is both personal and collective. With this special telecast, News18 Assam Northeast pays homage to an artist who transcended celebrity. Zubeen Garg didn’t simply make music; he made meaning. He became an era, an emotion, and a binding force for Assam, one that continues to resonate in every corner of the state. As viewers tune in to this tribute, they won’t just be watching a programme. They’ll be stepping into a memory, a feeling, a song, one that still belongs to everyone who ever called Zubeen theirs.

4 days ago

Business

IBCAP wins $41.85 million ruling against hosting provider Virtual Systems

MUMBAI: IBCAP has scored a thumping legal victory after a US federal court ordered hosting provider Virtual Systems and its chief executive Vyacheslav Smyrnov to pay $41.85 million and comply with a permanent injunction for wilful copyright infringement. The lawsuit, filed in October 2024, accused Virtual Systems of running a “DMCA ignored” policy and openly marketing that it would not act on takedown notices. IBCAP said the company brushed aside more than 500 infringement notices and let pirate services run freely on its servers. In its ruling, the US District Court for the Western District of Washington found that the defendants received at least 512 DMCA-compliant notices and multiple US court orders but failed to take any action to halt the infringement. The court held that Virtual Systems and Smyrnov willfully infringed copyrights and demonstrated reckless disregard for the rights of content owners. IBCAP's executive director Chris Kuelling said the judgment is a clear warning to hosting providers that ignore enforcement: permanent injunctions and multi-million-dollar damages await those who disregard the law. The ruling follows a recent $3 million settlement paid by Datacamp in another IBCAP-coordinated case, with a separate action against hosting provider Innetra still pending. The case was brought by IBCAP member Dish Network, with evidence from the IBCAP lab and prosecution led by Hagan Noll & Boyle. Another pirate operation stopped in its tracks. The message from IBCAP is unmistakable: ignore the law and the bill will be brutal.

4 days ago

Politics

Will quit politics if JD-U fulfills Rs 2L poll promise: PK

Jan Suraaj Party leader Prashant Kishor on Tuesday claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U) would have been bundled up with just 25 seats had his government not given Rs 10,000 to 60,000 beneficiaries in each constituency just before the assembly elections and promised Rs 2 lakh to 1.5 crore women across the state under self-employment initiatives.Addressing a press conference in Patna, Kishor said that his Jan Suraaj Party made an honest effort but failed to make a mark in the polls, and that he took full responsibility for the debacle. Kishor also alleged that vote chori (theft of votes) happens on a pan-India level and urged national opposition parties to hold deliberations on the matter and move the Supreme Court, if needed. We received a setback but we will rectify the mistakes, build ourselves and come back stronger... there is no going back for us, he asserted. Attacking the NDA, he said he has failed to understand Bihar, unlike Nitish Kumar and BJP leader Samrat Choudhary, who divided people on caste and religious lines and bought votes of people using money. To not get votes is not a crime... at least I have not indulged in corruption or divisive politics, he said. Kishor said he would definitely quit politics if the NDA government fulfils its poll promise and gives Rs 2 lakh each to Rs 1.5 crore women under self-employment initiatives. People have given the mandate to NDA, now its on the shoulders of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar to work on fulfilling their poll promises, he said. Self-employment is very important; they must give the Rs 2 lakh they promised. People who dont get the money in six months time can come to Jan Suraaj, we will fight to ensure they get the amount, he said. Kishor said as repentance, he would hold a fast for a day at Bitiharwa in West Champaran district on November 20, when the new NDA government is likely to take oath. The NDA stormed to power in Bihar, winning 202 seats in the 243-member assembly, with BJP bagging 89, JD(U) 85, LJP(RV) 19, HAM 5 and RLM 4. Jan Suraaj Party failed to open its account in its maiden polls.

4 days ago