A tragic incident unfolded at a Jehovah's Witnesses prayer convention near Kochi, Kerala, where a series of blasts occurred, claiming one life and injuring dozens, some critically. The explosions struck the Zamra International Convention and Exhibition Centre during a prayer session attended by approximately 2,500 faithful followers. Eyewitnesses reported the blasts happening on the convention hall stage, just minutes into the prayer session. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Police have sealed the venue and initiated a thorough investigation, with senior officials on high alert across the state.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani has received another death threat email demanding ₹200 crore, up from ₹20 crore in a previous threat, Mumbai police said Saturday. The new email stated that if Ambani does not pay ₹200 crore, the "death warrant is signed." On Friday, Ambani had received an email threatening to shoot him if he did not pay ₹20 crore. Based on a complaint by Ambani's security head, Mumbai police registered a case against an unknown person under charges of criminal intimidation. This is the second death threat email demanding money that Ambani has received recently.

Mumbai bids farewell to its iconic 'Premier Padmini' taxis, fondly known as 'kaali-peeli', as the last registered one retires on October 29, 2023, marking the end of their 59-year legacy. These black-and-yellow taxis, symbolic of Mumbai's landscape, transitioned out due to age limitations. The city, once home to around 63,000 of these cabs, now boasts over 40,000 modern alternatives. Despite their retirement, these taxis leave a lasting impression on Mumbaikars, representing not just a mode of transport but also a cherished cultural icon. Some enthusiasts advocate preserving at least one of these iconic cabs for posterity.

As the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya nears, craftsmen in Uttar Pradesh are working tirelessly to create unique carvings on red sandstone for the temple. Among them are several Muslim men who are proud that their traditional art will adorn the temple. The artisans from Agra-based companies are hand-carving pillars using age-old tools. The Muslim craftsmen see it as "good fortune" to contribute to the temple. About 500 cubic feet of stone have been prepared so far, with the work pace quickening for the January 2024 inauguration. The red sandstone was also used in old Parliament and other iconic buildings. The Muslim craftsmen's role highlights communal amity as their ancestral skills help construct the long-awaited Hindu temple. [Image: India Today]

Slamming the BJP government for abstaining from the UN Gaza truce vote, Priyanka Gandhi said the stand goes against India's founding principles. Gandhi expressed shock and shame at India's inaction, as the nation was founded on non-violence and truth. She said refusing to take a stand as humanity's laws are pulverized in Palestine contradicts India's moral courage guiding its global role. Gandhi said cutting off essentials and annihilating thousands in Gaza violates everything India stands for. Citing Gandhi's quote on retribution's dangers, she reminded the warring sides. Her sharp critique accused the government of failing to back the ceasefire amid the humanitarian crisis.

The Punjab Police announced Saturday the busting of a Babbar Khalsa International terror module with the arrest of four operatives. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the module was tasked by handlers to conduct targeted killings and was backed by Pakistan-based terrorist Harvinder Rinda with ISI help. Rinda provided logistical support using drones to smuggle weapons from Pakistan, the DGP said. The arrests mark a breakthrough against the banned pro-Khalistani group actively targeting individuals in India. Pakistan's continued enablement of BKI through arms smuggling and other aid spotlights its ongoing efforts to destabilize security in India's border state of Punjab.

Tensions escalated in Kerala as Hamas leader Khaled Mashal's virtual participation at a Solidarity Youth Movement rally in Malappuram drew sharp criticism. BJP State president K Surendran condemned the event, questioning the Kerala Police's role and demanding action against Mashal's involvement. Additionally, BJP targeted Congress's Shashi Tharoor for participating in a rally supporting Palestine, branding it "pro-Hamas." These incidents have ignited debates across political circles, raising concerns about the state's communal harmony.

Police say billionaire Mukesh Ambani received a death threat via email demanding 20 crore rupees be paid to the sender's account or Ambani would be killed by the "best shooters in India." The threat was brought to attention by security at Ambani's Mumbai residence and a complaint was filed. Mumbai Police have registered a case against the unidentified sender, who went by the name Shadab Khan, under criminal intimidation and extortion charges. Ambani has faced threats in the past targeted at India's wealthiest individual. The latest warning delivered to the Reliance Industries chairman ratchets up risks faced by high-profile business leaders amid India's social and economic

After overnight clashes between Indian BSF and Pakistani Rangers along the international border, an uneasy calm returned Friday though both sides remain vigilant. Pakistani forces had resorted to unprovoked mortar and gunfire Thursday night in the Arnia sector, to which BSF responded. Villagers who had fled the shelling returned home Friday as BSF monitored any further developments. BSF said it remains alert to ensure border safety. A Pakistani mortar damaged a house but no injuries were reported. Villagers expressed fear of renewed shelling, urging bunker construction. The flare-up after over two years comes ahead of Indian elections and the festive season when Pakistani firing typically increases. [Image: Representative]

Tata Group is set to become India's inaugural homegrown iPhone manufacturer for both domestic and global markets after Wistron Corp. agreed to sell its facility, Wistron InfoComm Manufacturing (India) Private Ltd., to Tata for $125 million. The deal is pending confirmation, relevant agreements, and necessary approvals. Union minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar commended Tata for this strategic acquisition, and the Indian government's production linked incentive (PLI) scheme, which has bolstered India's position as a reliable hub for smartphone manufacturing and exports. Tata is also expanding its collaboration with Apple, aiming to launch 100 Apple stores in India.