The Trump administration has clarified exemptions to the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, easing concerns for Indian students and tech professionals. The fee applies only to new petitions filed after September 21, 2025, for individuals outside the U.S. It excludes change-of-status cases, amendments, extensions, and reentries for those already in the country. USCIS confirmed existing H-1B holders can travel freely, and petitions filed before the deadline remain unaffected. Fee waivers may be granted in rare cases by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Employers must pay viapay.gov before filing. The clarification follows a lawsuit by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, calling the fee harmful to small businesses.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey, hosted a grand Diwali celebration featuring a spectacular fireworks display. The event drew thousands of attendees, including members of the Indian-American community and local residents, who gathered to witness the temple illuminated in vibrant colors. The fireworks lit up the night sky, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance, served as a cultural beacon during the festival. Videos of the celebration have gone viral, showcasing the scale and beauty of the event. This Diwali celebration marked one of the largest and most visually stunning in the region, blending tradition with community spirit.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended warm Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas greetings to Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs across Britain and globally. Recalling his recent India visit, Starmer shared that he lit a diya in Mumbai symbolizing devotion, joy, and strengthened Indo-UK friendship. During his October 9 joint press conference with PM Narendra Modi, he wished Indians in Hindi saying "Diwali ki Shubhkamnaye." The UK High Commission in India celebrated with traditional fervor, with officials wearing Indian attire and creating rangoli. UK High Commissioner Lindy Cameron highlighted the celebrations' significance, noting PM Modi's UK visit, the landmark trade deal signing, and Vision2035 launch. Diwali, representing light's victory over darkness and good over evil, was celebrated worldwide with great enthusiasm. (PC: DD News) 

A heartwarming video of an Irish man speaking Hindi to thank his Indian girlfriend's mother for Diwali gifts has gone viral on social media. Shared by Sanskruti Darren on Instagram with caption "Some moments don't need translation," the clip shows him greeting her mother with "Hello, kaise hai aap?" and thanking her for sending traditional treats like anarsa and laddoo, calling them "very sundar." He concluded with "Shukriya" and "Good night." The video garnered millions of views, with users praising his effort and warmth. One commenter shared how her husband similarly connects with her mother over traditional sweets, highlighting how inter-racial relationships create constant adventures for families.

World leaders extended warm Diwali greetings as India celebrated the Festival of Lights on October 20, 2025. Australian PM Anthony Albanese shared a video message wishing "hope for a bright future" during celebrations. New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon emphasized Diwali represents "triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and good over evil" as families gather nationwide. Singapore PM Lawrence Wong posted on X celebrating "light over darkness, hope over fear," featuring Indian diaspora members. The Australian High Commission hosted special celebrations with Minister Anne Aly participating. These heartfelt messages reflect Diwali's growing global recognition as a celebration transcending borders, uniting communities worldwide beyond India's traditional boundaries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali aboard INS Vikrant, telling naval personnel the aircraft carrier's "very name took away Pakistan's sleep." During his address off Goa-Karwar coast, Modi praised the warship as a "towering symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India," representing the nation's innovation and determination. He highlighted how India's three forces' coordination "forced Pakistan to surrender quickly in Operation Sindoor." Modi described his overnight stay aboard as "unforgettable," witnessing patriotic performances and immense enthusiasm. He called the indigenous carrier "not merely a warship, but testimony to 21st-century India's talent, impact, and commitment," emphasizing that courage makes military equipment truly formidable beyond their impressive specifications.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with Navy personnel aboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, off the coast of Goa and Karwar. He spent the night onboard and said he felt “fortunate to be here.” Reflecting on his experience, PM Modi said he learned the importance of living in the moment and admired the Navy’s dedication. Watching the ocean at night and sunrise at sea made his Diwali special, he said. Modi praised the sailors’ performance depicting Operation Sindoor, calling it a moving reminder of their courage and service to the nation. (PC: X)

Thieves stole precious gems from the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, October 19. The robbers used a mechanical ladder and cut through glass to enter the Apollo Gallery around 9:30 a.m. The gallery houses priceless crown jewels, including diamonds mined in Golconda, India. Authorities have not confirmed which pieces were taken. The Regent diamond, worth $60 million, remains safe, officials said. Other famous diamonds like the Hortensia and Sancy are being checked. Many of these jewels have deep links to India’s history, raising new calls for their return to the country. Police are investigating the theft. (PC: Instagram)

Rohit Godara claimed responsibility for shooting Lawrence Bishnoi's close aide Hari Boxer in California, USA. In a purported Facebook post, Godara said he and Goldy Brar orchestrated the Highway 41 attack near Fresno, where one associate died instantly and another was hospitalized. Boxer reportedly fled, hiding under a car seat. Godara warned, "He may hide in any corner of earth, but we will not spare him," calling Boxer a "coward" and "biggest traitor." Godara left Bishnoi's gang months ago, now operating independently with Brar. Both are wanted by NIA and state police. Their rivalry escalated after Godara accused Bishnoi of colluding with American agencies.

India's unprecedented silver demand during Dhanteras and Diwali triggered a global crisis, shocking London markets. MMTC-Pamp India, the country's largest refinery, depleted stocks for the first time in history as buyers shifted from record-high gold to silver. Social media influencers promoted silver's favorable 100-to-1 gold ratio, sparking viral buying frenzy. London vaults ran dry as ETF investors held $36 billion in silver. JPMorgan informed clients it couldn't deliver October silver to India. Prices surged above $54 per ounce before plunging 6.7%. Indian premiums skyrocketed from cents to $5 per ounce. Kotak, UTI, and SBI halted silver fund subscriptions. Major banks stopped quoting prices amid extreme market stress. (PC: APN News)