Author: Nupur Rohila

In a historic milestone for one of the largest Indian American communities in the United States, Mamta Singh has been elected to the Jersey City Council At-Large, becoming the first Indian American ever to win public office in the city. Her victory marks a moment of long-awaited representation for the diaspora that has shaped the city’s cultural and economic life for decades. Singh’s win coincided with a night of political transformation in Jersey City, as reform-oriented Councilmember James Solomon secured a decisive victory in the mayoral runoff. While Solomon’s mandate reflects a shift in local governance, Singh’s breakthrough emerged as…

A new analysis from the Begin–Sadat Centre for Strategic Studies highlights a major reorientation in India’s national security doctrine, arguing that the country has effectively begun treating large-scale terrorism as an act of war. According to the report, this shift has opened the door to deeper strategic coordination with Israel, particularly in areas related to deterrence, counterterrorism and advanced military technology. The study notes that India’s readiness to impose costs on terrorist networks and their state backers—without waiting for international endorsement—marks the emergence of a new strategic playbook. Analysts John Spencer and Lauren Dagan Amoss argue that India’s approach now…

India produced a commanding batting display in Raipur as centuries from Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad, along with an unbeaten 66 from skipper KL Rahul, powered the hosts to a formidable 358/5 in the second ODI against South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium. Gaikwad played with remarkable fluency against spin, converting a steady start into his maiden ODI hundred. After reaching a fifty off 52 balls, he accelerated sharply to bring up his century in 77 deliveries, ultimately scoring 105 from 83 balls. At the other end, Kohli continued his excellent form by compiling 102 off…

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the United States has dramatically changed how it positions itself on the global stage, marking a major shift in Washington’s foreign policy playbook. Receiving an Honorary Doctorate from IIM-Calcutta on November 29, he noted that the US is now approaching countries individually rather than relying on the multilateral structures it once championed. This move, he said, represents “entirely new terms of engagement” that are prompting nations worldwide to reassess how they protect their strategic interests. Jaishankar explained that this altered diplomatic environment is increasingly shaped by politics overshadowing economics. According to him, the…

Arts India US has announced the 2026 cohort of Lotus Fellows, a premier initiative supporting Indian American artists in classical performing arts across the United States. Designed as a year-long program, it provides mentorship, professional development workshops, and performance opportunities aimed at increasing the visibility and impact of Indian classical arts within the US cultural landscape. This year’s fellows were recognized for their exceptional creativity and commitment to connecting traditional art forms with contemporary audiences. The 2026 Lotus Fellows include Antara Bhattacharya (sitar), Ariaki Dandawate (Kathak), Harini Nilakantha (Bharatanatyam), Karthik Iyer (Carnatic violin), Karun Salvady (mridangam), Neha Venkatesh (Bharatanatyam), Shalini…

Private equity and venture capital funding held steady through October 2025, posting a strong month despite slower deal activity. Total PE-VC investments climbed to about $5.3 million across 102 transactions, marking a 9% year-on-year increase even as the overall number of deals moderated. Pure investment inflows reached their highest level in more than a year at nearly $5 million, supported by revived interest in public-market opportunities and a renewed push toward early-stage investing. One of the most significant trends during the month was a dramatic surge in private investment in public equity, with PIPE commitments soaring almost tenfold to roughly…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka as the island nation grapples with the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Offering solidarity during the crisis, Modi announced that India has dispatched essential relief supplies and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support through Operation Sagar Bandhu. In a message shared on X, Modi expressed deep sorrow for the lives lost and urged strength for families affected by the cyclone’s fury. He emphasized that India, guided by the “Neighbourhood First” policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, stands firmly with Sri Lanka during this difficult moment. Modi…

Priyanka Chopra has highlighted the extraordinary accomplishments of India’s women athletes, celebrating their rising impact across global sporting arenas. The actor shared a video montage that showcases notable achievements of women in sports, applauding their resilience, discipline and the inspiration they offer to young girls across the country. The video features defining moments from recent tournaments where Indian women have excelled. It includes the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team’s victory in the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup, a dominant campaign that saw the team remain unbeaten throughout the series. It also highlights the Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team’s triumph at…

Uthara Unnikrishnan has earned the distinction of Employee of the Quarter at the University of Arkansas Global Campus, marking a significant milestone in her tenure with the institution. The recognition was announced during an October staff meeting, where Cheryl Murphy, vice provost for distance education and head of the Global Campus, highlighted Unnikrishnan’s outstanding contributions and dedication to the university’s mission. Expressing her appreciation, Unnikrishnan shared that the honor came as a surprise and has encouraged her to continue expanding her skills and strengthening her commitment to professional growth. As a data and innovation resource specialist within the Professional and…

As Aishwarya Rai Bachchan marks her 52nd birthday on November 1, she continues to stand as an enduring emblem of beauty and poise. Her appeal extends far beyond her celebrated film career — it is also rooted in her grounded lifestyle, disciplined self-care, and humble demeanor. From winning the Miss World title in 1994 to becoming a global Bollywood icon, Aishwarya has consistently represented elegance, confidence, and sincerity. Simplicity at the Core Even with decades spent in the spotlight, Aishwarya’s approach to beauty remains remarkably uncomplicated. She often credits basic habits — staying well-hydrated and maintaining good hygiene — as…