External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that there are currently no plans to create a BRICS currency which would involve Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS countries if they decided to go ahead with such a currency. Jaishankar clarified, “India has never supported changing from the dollar,” emphasizing that not all BRICS countries agree on this issue.
Jaishankar is in Doha, Qatar, to attend the Doha Forum, where world leaders discuss important global challenges. During a panel discussion, he talked about how countries often have different agreements and conflicts. He noted the complexity of international relations, stating, “It’s a messy world.”
He urged for “more innovative and participative diplomacy,” especially in conflicts, like the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which affects many countries due to rising costs of oil and food.
Jaishankar believes there’s a shift towards finding solutions through diplomacy rather than continuing conflicts. He emphasized India’s active role in talking to both Russia and Ukraine, aiming to find common ground and express the concerns of many countries affected by rising costs due to the war.
He pointed out that even major European leaders have encouraged India to keep engaging with both Russia and Ukraine to foster dialogue and understanding.
Jaishankar’s visit to Qatar includes participating in the 20th IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, focusing on strengthening relationships in the region.
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Jaishankar: India Rejects BRICS Currency, Advocates for Global Diplomacy
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Alia Bhatt Takes Auto Rickshaw, Shocks Fans Amid New Movie Talks
It’s not common for Bollywood stars to use public transport instead of their fancy cars. Usually, they like to travel in chauffeur-driven vehicles because they value their privacy and comfort. But sometimes, a few stars take a break from their luxury rides and hop on rickshaws or buses, surprising their fans and onlookers.
Recently, Alia Bhatt was seen riding an auto rickshaw in Mumbai, which is a popular way to travel in the busy city. On Saturday evening, she decided to ditch her car and took an auto to get home, accompanied by her personal security. This casual choice shocked many fans who spotted her. Alia looked relaxed in a simple grey and off-white striped shirt with grey pants, and she wore a black face mask to keep a low profile. A video of her riding the auto is now going viral!
Alia has some exciting movies coming up, including ‘Alpha’, a spy thriller from YRF, and ‘Love And War’ directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Recent reports suggest she is also in talks with Dinesh Vijan about a new movie! Just a month ago, fans spotted Alia at Maddock’s office, leading to speculation about a possible film. According to Pinkvilla, she has been visiting Maddock to discuss a spooky supernatural horror movie.
Also, it is reported that Alia Bhatt has reserved a lot of time, until November 2025, for her role in ‘Love And War’ with Bhansali. After that, she wants to start filming a new project. A source close to Alia mentioned, “She has always talked about several movies with Dinesh Vijan and is very close to working with him. Alia is excited about a psychological supernatural thriller, which could be the next big film for her after ‘Love And War’. Talks are in progress, and we expect things to be official by early 2025.” -
Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens: A Symbol of Unity and Hope!
This Saturday, Notre Dame Cathedral in France will officially reopen for the first time since a terrible fire almost destroyed it in 2019. The restoration of this beautiful 861-year-old building took just five years, an incredible achievement considering it took nearly two centuries to build. This event is also good news for French President Emmanuel Macron, who pushed for the quick restoration amid his political troubles.
On this special evening, many important world leaders and local worshippers will come together inside the cathedral to celebrate. Guests include President-elect Donald Trump, First Lady Jill Biden, Prince William from Britain, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, making a total of around 1,500 attendees. Due to strong winds expected in Paris, the opening ceremony will now take place inside instead of outside as planned.
Notre Dame’s rector, Rev. Olivier Ribadeau Dumas, emphasizes that the cathedral is “more than just a French monument” and symbolizes unity and hope. “What seemed impossible has become possible,” he said.
The evening will include important religious ceremonies, speeches, and beautiful music. The archbishop will reopen Notre Dame’s grand wooden doors, tapping them three times with a wooden staff made from the burnt wood of the cathedral’s roof. Crowds will gather along the Seine River, where people like Huguette Euphrasie will pray for loved ones while they watch the ceremony on large screens.
In the cathedral, the organ, which has been silent since the fire, will play again with the help of talented musicians. There will be a concert featuring famous artists, celebrating the cathedral’s rebirth.
The reopening is especially significant since the world is facing many problems, including wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Dumas believes Notre Dame offers a comforting presence and is a symbol of unity.
The reopening also comes during a tough time for President Macron, whose government recently faced major challenges. The event will give him a chance to highlight this positive achievement for France.
The area around Notre Dame will be secure as many gathered to witness this global event. Large screens along the river will help the public feel part of the celebration, and Notre Dame is expected to attract millions of visitors each year, showing its enduring importance to people all over the world.
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Assad’s Fight for Survival: Rebel Forces Challenge His Decades-Long Rule
President Bashar al-Assad has been fighting rebel forces in Syria with the help of Russia and Iran for many years, but he never fully defeated them. This has made him vulnerable, especially as his allies are busy with other conflicts. Recently, the rebels made a quick advance in western Syria, creating a serious threat to Assad’s long rule. Statues of his father and brother have been torn down, and posters of him have been vandalized.
Assad has been president since 2000, following his father’s death, and he has tried to keep control in a country where most people are Sunni Muslims, while he belongs to the Alawite sect. His time in power was shaped by the civil war that began in 2011. It started when people wanted democracy but faced brutal attacks instead. In 2018, U.S. President Donald Trump called him an “animal” for using chemical weapons, which Assad denied.
With help from Russian airstrikes and Iranian-backed fighters, Assad managed to take back many territories from the rebels. Although there has been a bit of calm over the years, many areas are still not under his control, and the country’s economy is struggling due to sanctions. Some Arab countries that had turned against him are beginning to reconnect.
Assad has not spoken publicly since the rebels captured Aleppo last week but told Iran’s president that the conflict aimed to serve Western interests. In 2012, he said he was like a surgeon saving a patient, even if his hands were “covered in blood.”
As the conflict continued, he declared, “We will hit them with an iron fist,” but much of Syria is still at war. The number of deaths is over 350,000, and many Syrians have fled the country.
Some Syrians support him because they believe he is protecting them from extremist groups. While he claims Syria is a secular state, the conflict has become increasingly sectarian, with Iranian fighters supporting him and Sunni countries backing the rebels. Iran sees Assad’s survival as very important.
However, the United States failed to respond strongly when Assad used chemical weapons, even though there is evidence showing he did. Assad often laughed off accusations against him, including using barrel bombs that caused a lot of destruction.
Despite sanctions and being viewed as a bad leader by many in the West, some Arab nations are starting to warm up to him again. In 2022, he was welcomed in the United Arab Emirates, showing a shift in relationships.
Bashar Assad used to be an eye doctor in London before becoming president after his father passed away in 2000. Initially, he seemed to bring some hopeful changes, releasing political prisoners and trying to open the economy. However, these positive signs quickly faded, leading to a failed promise of reform.
The economy struggles while many people suffer, creating tension and protests that contributed to the ongoing conflict. Tensions grew with the West after the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, and public pressure mounted on Assad after the assassination of a Lebanese leader in 2005.
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Protesters in Syria Bring Down Assad Statues in Defiant Act!”
In Jermana, a suburb near Damascus, protesters took down a statue of Hafez al-Assad, the late father of current Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The crowd, mostly from the Druze community, demanded that President Assad step down. They walked towards government buildings, calling for security forces to leave their neighborhood. Ryan Marouf, an activist, mentioned that unlike other parts of Syria, the government has mostly ignored protests from the Druze. This time, demonstrators even removed posters of Assad, challenging the strong support he and his father usually receive.
The night before, there were fights in Suweida, another Druze city, where local militias attacked a police station, freeing many prisoners. In Deraa, west of Suweida, people celebrated by taking down a statue of Assad and firing their guns in the air. These events show a growing spirit of freedom among people who want change in Syria’s government.
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Uttarakhand Launches Exciting Winter Char Dham Yatra for Pilgrims
Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand): Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, announced on Saturday that the state is getting ready for the winter Char Dham Yatra. He believes this will greatly benefit the state.
“Starting this winter, we are introducing a new pilgrimage plan,” he told the news agency ANI. CM Dhami added that he will spend time in Rudraprayag to meet local people and thank them for their support. “I want to connect with everyone and show my gratitude,” he said.
The winter pilgrimage is special because it allows visitors to explore even when the main Char Dham sites—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—are closed due to heavy snowfall. CM Dhami said this new opportunity will enhance tourism, as travel to these holy places usually lasts five to six months, and there are many other beautiful spots for tourists to enjoy year-round.
He assured that the government is dedicated to making sure that everyone has a smooth journey. “We want all visitors to enjoy our beautiful weather here throughout the year,” he added.
CM Dhami also expressed his gratitude to Baba Kedarnath, saying that the recent victories of BJP candidates in the elections show the people’s trust in them. He believes this election was about supporting the Kedarnath area and fighting against those who spread false information.
In winter, while the regular Char Dham shrines close, pilgrims can still visit alternative locations like Ukhimath, Pandukeshwar, Kharsali, and Mukhwa, according to the tourism department.
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Your Weekly Chinese Zodiac Horoscope: December Insights for 2023
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Snake (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
This week is all about calmness. Focus on what makes you happy and avoid trying to please everyone. Setting boundaries can lead to meaningful discoveries.In love, find balance and respect your partner. Both of you should feel valued and safe in your relationship.
Make time for peaceful activities, like meditation or quiet walks, to help reduce anxiety and relax your mind.
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Horse (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
This week, embrace the joy and the fun in your life! Let your true self shine and express who you are!In love, communicate clearly with your partner. Listening and sharing your heart will make your relationship stronger and more exciting!
Try not to take on too much this week. Finding a steady pace will help you focus on what’s important.
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Goat (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
This week is empowering! Show off your hidden talents and let your true self come through. You can achieve greatness—be ready for new opportunities!In love, trust your gut and be aware of any red flags. True love should lift you up, while false love can weigh you down.
Focus on eating healthy, especially fresh foods this week. Adding greens will boost your energy!
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Monkey (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
This week highlights the importance of friends and family. Enjoy these connections and see the joy they bring!If you are in a long-term relationship, introduce your partner to your friends and family to strengthen those bonds.
Allow space for peaceful and simple activities this week. You’ll clear your mind and get a nice energy boost!
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Rooster (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
This week is full of energy! Seek fun experiences that inspire you and teach you valuable lessons!Do something thoughtful for your partner; these gestures will make your relationship deeper and more joyful!
Follow those sudden urges this week, like calling an old friend or sketching. Acting on them can bring nice surprises and insights!
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Dog (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
This week invites a fresh start! Connect with your child-like spirit and feel free to explore your path. You are loved!In love, enjoy activities with your partner and give them your full attention. This creates harmony between you two!
Find joy in small things this week. Each moment holds wisdom, reminding you that nothing is too small to notice!
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Pig (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
This week feels joyful and energetic! When you set your mind to something, you can achieve it, especially for your kids!In love, focus on listening and speaking equally to your partner. This will take your relationship to the next level!
Make time for arts and crafts this week. Creating or visiting craft fairs will be a wonderful way to celebrate 2024 as the New Year begins!
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Police Officers Suspended After Deadly Gas Explosion Injures Six”
On Saturday, two police officers were suspended for being careless. This happened after a gas cylinder explosion at an illegal gas filling site in Shahpur Bhamaroli village, near the Dubagga police station, on Friday. The explosion hurt six people badly, including four workers inside the house and two children nearby. They are all in serious condition.
Omveer Singh, the Deputy Commissioner of Police for the West area, took action after learning that officers Ramsevak Rana and Manoj Kumar did not stop the illegal activity. “I visited the site and found out from local residents that this illegal gas filling has been going on for 5 to 6 months,” said Singh.
The blast took place around 7:00 PM at the home of Rohit Gupta, where residents revealed he had been secretly refilling gas cylinders. Singh is looking into the case with the help of the Assistant Commissioner of Police from Malihabad and has promised strict actions against any other officers involved.
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Kerala High Court Pressures Government on Disaster Fund Clarity”
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): The Kerala High Court is not happy with how the state government is handling money for disasters. They were discussing a serious landslide in Wayanad and asked the government to explain how much money is in the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The state told the court there is Rs 677 crores left in the fund.
The court wanted to know if there is a yearly report on how this money is spent. They questioned why the government is asking for money if they can’t provide exact numbers. The judges were frustrated and asked, “Who are you trying to fool? You don’t even know how much of the Rs 677 crores can be used for urgent needs!”
The court warned the state not to play blame games, which make the people of Kerala look bad, especially those in Wayanad. When asking the central government for help, the state must give clear and accurate numbers.
The judges also pointed out that the government isn’t sure if the Rs 677 crores is really available. The lawyer for the state said that even without disasters, they need around Rs 700 crores each year for the SDRF to cover other expenses. They also said they need more money for recovery efforts.
The court ordered the government to prepare a detailed report but the state asked for more time. The next court hearing is set for December 12.
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Travis Head Scores 140 as Australia Leads Against India in Adelaide Match
Travis Head Shines Again in Adelaide Match
In Adelaide, Travis Head is showing he has two different careers in cricket. His first stretch was from December 2018 to December 2020, where he played six matches against India and scored 299 runs, averaging 29.90. Then he took a break and returned on February 17, 2023. Since then, he has played six more matches and scored 656 runs with a much better average of 65.60. This difference is very noticeable, especially against India. Head often steps up when playing against them, like in the ODI World Cup final and the World Test Championship final.
As he walked out to bat in his hometown of Adelaide, the crowd cheered loudly, even though Australia had lost a few quick wickets. They knew he was a strong player, and he didn’t disappoint them. While India has great bowlers, they often struggle to deal with Head’s aggressive batting style.
On the first day of the match, India scored 180 runs, and Australia ended with 86 runs for 1 wicket. On Day 2, Australia reached 337 runs before getting all out, thanks to a brilliant innings from Head, who scored 140 runs from 141 balls. Meanwhile, India found it tough again and ended Day 2 at 128 for 5.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, praised Head, saying they bowled well at first, but Head quickly took control of the game. He noted that India struggled to switch from their plan when Head started scoring quickly, especially in the last 10 overs before the new ball.
After 50 overs, Australia was 143 for 3, and Head decided it was time to pick up the pace. From the 50th to the 82nd over, he scored a fantastic 119 runs, which helped Australia gain a big advantage.
Head felt good about how he began his innings and knew he needed to take on the bowlers before the new ball arrived. There was some luck too—he was dropped at 76 runs. But once he got going, India couldn’t keep up with him.
The match isn’t over yet—India is just 29 runs behind with five wickets left. Rishabh Pant needs to step up, but he might not have enough support. Australia is informed about their lead but knows Pant could be a threat. Head said, “It’s crucial to take a couple of quick wickets in the morning to hold onto our advantage.”