The traditional Gomira Mask Dance concluded World Heritage Week 2025 at Victoria Memorial Hall on November 25. Performed by Sri Sri Gohili Mukhos Nritya Dol, the event showcased North Bengal's living folk heritage through powerful rhythms, vibrant masks, and rich storytelling. The ancient dance form, deeply rooted in North Bengal's cultural traditions, captivated audiences with its authentic presentation of regional folklore. Victoria Memorial Hall provided the historic backdrop for this celebration of India's intangible cultural heritage. The performance highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting traditional art forms that have been passed down through generations. World Heritage Week serves to raise awareness about India's diverse cultural legacy and the need for heritage conservation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a lighthearted moment with Safran Chairman Ross McInnes during the inauguration of the company's Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility in Hyderabad. McInnes jokingly said, "I was born in India. So I'm 'Made in India' too," making PM Modi laugh. The MRO facility will service LEAP engines for A320 and B737 aircraft, while another facility for M88 engines powering Rafale jets will also be established. Both facilities, operational by 2026, will boost India's indigenous aviation capabilities. Modi highlighted India as a "trusted partner" with rapid growth, stable government, and vast talent pool. Safran has operated in India for 70+ years.

At least 44 people died in a major fire engulfing public housing apartments in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, with 279 unaccounted for. Three construction company executives were arrested on manslaughter suspicion, linked to flammable materials like mesh and plastic sheets enabling rapid fire spread. Over 800 firefighters battled the level-five blaze at Wang Fuk Court for 18+ hours. Resident Kiko Ma revealed windows were sealed during renovations, fire alarms turned off, and workers used fire escapes. "This was preventable," she stated. Chief Executive John Lee suspended legislative campaigning ahead of December 7 polls. Around 900 residents evacuated to shelters. US, UK, and Taiwan sent condolences.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced an immediate, indefinite halt to all immigration requests for Afghan nationals following a shooting near the White House. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, shot two National Guard troops before being detained. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed Lakanwal was mass-paroled under Operation Allies Welcome on September 8, 2021, during the Biden Administration. President Trump called Afghanistan a "hell hole on earth" and labeled the attack "monstrous" and an "act of terror." The USCIS stated the suspension aims to review security and vetting protocols, prioritizing homeland protection. Afghanistan hasn't responded to the immigration department's move.

India strongly rejected Pakistan's criticism of PM Modi hoisting a saffron flag at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal dismissed Pakistan's remarks, calling it a "country with a deeply stained record of bigotry" with no moral standing to lecture others. Pakistan had protested the flag-raising, claiming it pressured minorities and erased Muslim heritage, referencing the demolished Babri Masjid. On Tuesday, Modi raised a 22-foot saffron flag and led rituals performed by 108 priests under scholar Ganeshwar Shastri's guidance. He declared a "500-year-old resolve" fulfilled. The Supreme Court ruled in 2019 favoring Hindu plaintiffs after the 1992 mosque demolition. Modi laid the temple's foundation in 2020.

Indian cricketer Mohammed Siraj expressed frustration over Air India flight IX 2884 from Guwahati to Hyderabad, scheduled for 7:25 PM Wednesday, which was delayed four hours without proper communication. Siraj criticized the airline on X, calling it the "worst airline experience" and stating passengers were left stranded with no updates despite repeated follow-ups. He advised others against taking the flight if the airline couldn't take responsibility. Air India responded with an apology, revealing the flight was ultimately cancelled due to unforeseen operational reasons. The airline mentioned their airport team was assisting passengers with necessary arrangements and promised continued updates and support during the difficult situation.

Several US-based X accounts recently exploited old photos of Rajendra Panchal, a 40-year-old Pune helper, to post racist content targeting Indians. Panchal suffered a jaw fracture at age one, leading to TMJ ankylosis, a condition fusing his jaw to his skull. Unable to afford surgery, he survived 38 years on liquids until receiving free treatment in 2017. Racist American users circulated his pre-surgery images, calling Indians "deformed job-stealers," aligning with Trump's MAGA rhetoric. One post garnered 11 million views. A September 2025 report documented 680 high-engagement anti-Indian posts totaling 281 million views, with 70% framing Indians as "invaders." This xenophobia intensified under Trump's second term, targeting even disability. (PC: X via Mohammed Zubair)

After intense diplomacy, hope for peace in Ukraine is rising, but uncertainty remains. US President Donald Trump said a deal is "very close," while President Zelensky noted "many prospects" for peace after Geneva talks. European leaders revised the US 28-point plan, reducing territorial demands and emphasizing security guarantees. Russia has responded cautiously, saying many points need expert discussion. Key issues like security assurances, territorial control, and Ukraine’s NATO ties are still unresolved. Diplomats continue discussions, with US envoy Steve Witkoff heading to Moscow next week. Experts caution that while progress exists, the path to a final agreement remains long and complex. (PC: BBC)

Delhi’s air quality remained in the "very poor" category for the 13th consecutive day on Wednesday, with an AQI of 327. The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts no improvement in the coming week. Vehicular emissions were the largest contributor, accounting for 21.6% of pollution, while stubble burning added 0.8%. Health experts advise regular check-ups for those exposed, including children, elderly, smokers, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. Tests like spirometry, FeNO, pulse oximetry, and chest X-rays can help detect early lung or airway damage. Authorities continue to monitor real-time pollution data across the city. (PC: NDTV)

India’s home Test record has taken a heavy hit after back-to-back defeats to New Zealand (3–0) and South Africa (2–0). Under coach Gautam Gambhir, the team showed poor planning, weak batting, and lack of Test temperament. Questionable pitch choices and selection of unprepared players added to the problems. The second Test ended in a 408-run loss, highlighting India’s struggles. Experts say the team’s confused strategies and lack of application allowed visiting sides to dominate. India’s once-feared home advantage has weakened, raising concerns about coaching decisions and the team’s readiness for high-pressure matches. (PC: BBC)