Author: Deepika chandrasekar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to US President Donald Trump early Wednesday for a phone call and his warm Diwali wishes. In his message on X, PM Modi described India and the United States as “great democracies” and highlighted the importance of staying united in combating terrorism in all its forms. He wrote, “Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms.” Earlier, President Trump marked the Diwali celebrations…

The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi glowed with devotion and festivity as devotees gathered to celebrate Diwali through the traditional Bahipujan ceremony. This sacred ritual, symbolizing prosperity and gratitude, was performed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for success and abundance in business and life. Dr. Madhvi Gohel, a member of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, emphasized the unique cultural and spiritual depth of Indian festivals. She noted, “India is truly a land of festivals, each carrying profound meaning. Today’s celebration of Diwali embodies the wish for prosperity and light in every household.” She explained that Bahipujan holds a…

 As homes across India and the world illuminate with lamps and festive lights, several global leaders and foreign diplomats have extended warm Diwali greetings to Indian communities worldwide. From Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the UAE to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, leaders celebrated the festival’s message of hope, light, and renewal. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized Diwali’s universal significance, urging communities to embrace the festival as a time of optimism and new beginnings. He expressed his hopes for a joyful and uplifting celebration, wishing all a bright and promising future during this festive season. Sheikh Mohammed…

As uncertainty looms over India’s ties with the United States, a major Australian defense industry delegation arrived in India on October 6, signaling Canberra’s growing commitment to deepen strategic cooperation with New Delhi. The mission aims to connect defense companies from both nations specializing in command, communications, cyber defense, surveillance, and intelligence — a partnership described as “truly seismic” by Australia’s High Commissioner to India. Australia views India as an indispensable security ally, and the recent visit of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to Canberra — the first in a decade — reaffirmed the strength of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established…

The Association of Indians in America, New York Chapter (AIA-NY), made history with its 38th Deepavali Festival, held at Overlook Beach in Babylon, Long Island. The event marked the first-ever celebration of this scale on Long Island, drawing an estimated 5,000 visitors for a day filled with dance, devotion, and dazzling performances. The festival showcased a mix of traditional and contemporary Indian culture through folk dances, classical performances, spiritual presentations, and live concerts. Attendees enjoyed authentic Indian cuisine, shopping stalls, and art exhibits, while children participated in rangoli and art competitions. AIA-NY President Beena Kothari described the event as a…

Abhishek Bachchan celebrated a major career milestone on the night of the 70th Filmfare Awards 2025, winning his first-ever Best Actor (Male) trophy for his role in I Want To Talk. Marking 25 years in the film industry, the actor was visibly emotional as he took to the stage amid a standing ovation, expressing gratitude to those who supported him, particularly his family. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Bachchan shared how meaningful the award was, reflecting on the years of effort and dedication that led to this achievement. “This year marks 25 years in the film industry, and I’ve lost…

 A delegation-level meeting took place in New Delhi between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between the two nations. During the discussions, both leaders oversaw the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) focusing on humanitarian aid, restoration of Mongolian heritage sites, cooperation in immigration, geology, and mineral resources, promotion of cooperatives, and sharing digital solutions. The occasion also marked the release of commemorative stamps celebrating 70 years of India-Mongolia diplomatic ties. In a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi announced that India will offer free e-visas to Mongolian citizens and sponsor…

Leaders from more than twenty nations have been invited to participate in the upcoming Gaza Peace Summit, which will be jointly chaired by US President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The high-level conference, scheduled for Monday in Sharm El-Sheikh, aims to advance global diplomatic efforts toward lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a formal invitation from both the White House and the Egyptian authorities, India will be represented by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti V Singh, as neither Modi nor External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar could attend…

India and the United Kingdom have taken a major step forward in strengthening their defence and trade relations during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s maiden visit to India since assuming office. On October 9, 2025, both nations signed crucial agreements advancing the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) and finalised a defence contract worth $445 million for the U.K. to supply advanced missiles to India. The new deals mark a significant boost to bilateral cooperation in strategic, economic, and technological sectors. Accompanied by a high-profile delegation of nearly 100 members, including entrepreneurs, cultural leaders, and university vice-chancellors, Prime Minister Starmer arrived in…

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the initial agreement under US President Donald Trump’s peace plan between Israel and Hamas, describing it as a significant step toward lasting stability in the region. The Indian Prime Minister highlighted the strong leadership of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and expressed hope that the release of hostages and increased humanitarian assistance for Gaza would provide immediate relief and pave the way for durable peace. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “We welcome the agreement on the first phase of President Trump’s peace plan. This is also a reflection of the…