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.

A devastating fire at Bangladesh's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport could cost over $1 billion in damages, business leaders warn. The blaze, which took 27 hours to extinguish, destroyed clothes, raw materials, and essential buyer samples in the logistics hub, potentially threatening future business opportunities. Around 35 people were injured containing the fire that temporarily suspended airport operations. Bangladesh, the world's second-largest clothing exporter after China, generates $40 billion annually from garments (over 10% of GDP) supplying H&M and Walmart. This marks Bangladesh's third major fire within one week, following deadly warehouse and factory blazes. The interim government pledged immediate action if sabotage evidence emerges amid online conspiracy theories.

Delhi celebrated Diwali amid toxic air as AQI entered "very poor" category, triggering Stage 2 GRAP curbs Sunday evening. Monday morning saw two stations hit "severe" levels as Wazirpur recorded 419 AQI and Anand Vihar 411, while 27 stations remained "very poor." Sunday night showed 24 of 38 monitoring stations in dangerous zones. CAQM imposed 12 preventive measures including diesel generator restrictions, interstate bus limitations, and increased parking fees. Supreme Court permitted green crackers between specific hours (6-7 am, 8-10 pm) on Diwali eve and festival day. IMD forecast temperatures around 33°C maximum and 21°C minimum with morning mist expected throughout the week.

The Kapoor family kicked off Diwali celebrations with a grand Dhanteras gathering. Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, and Alia Bhatt were seen together, dressed in festive attire. Alia wore a shimmering gold saree, Kareena opted for a blue and gold lehenga, and Karisma wore a black and white outfit. Neetu Kapoor and other family members joined the celebrations, sharing moments on social media. Ibrahim Ali Khan posted a cute picture with his brothers, Taimur and Jeh. Soha Ali Khan also shared glimpses of the festive spirit. Fans praised the family’s style and warmth. The Kapoor family continues to celebrate Diwali together each year. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump said the Gaza ceasefire remains in place, despite renewed violence between Israel and Hamas. Israel launched airstrikes across Gaza on Sunday after militants fired an anti-tank missile and gunfire at troops in Rafah, killing two soldiers. Hamas denied involvement and said it was unaware of any fighting in the area. Gaza health officials said 44 people were killed in the strikes. Both sides accused each other of breaking the truce. Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner are travelling to Israel to help keep the fragile ceasefire from collapsing. (PC: BBC)

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)

Goa began its Diwali celebrations with the burning of giant Narakasura effigies at dawn on Monday. The tradition, known as Narak Chaturdashi, marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon king Narakasura. Once a small village ritual, it has now become a grand event featuring DJs, drones, lights and massive hydraulics-powered effigies. Groups like the Zingaro Boys in Betim and Mala spend weeks crafting the 50-foot figures from bamboo, paper and clay. The celebrations draw huge crowds and competitions with cash prizes. Historians say the festival reflects Goa’s cultural revival after Portuguese rule ended in 1961. (PC: X)

Two airport ground staff died after an Emirates cargo plane skidded off the runway and crashed into the sea at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday. The Boeing 747, arriving from Dubai, veered off the runway at 3:50 a.m. and hit a patrol vehicle before breaking apart. The four crew members onboard survived and were rescued. Officials said the patrol car was outside the runway fencing and did not cause the crash. Investigators are searching for the plane’s black boxes to determine the cause. One runway remains closed, and several cargo flights have been cancelled. (PC: BBC)

Delhi’s air turned toxic on Diwali, with the city’s AQI reaching 335 in the “very poor” category and Anand Vihar recording 417, marked “severe.” The Commission for Air Quality Management enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR to fight rising pollution. The move adds to earlier measures under Stage I, including strict dust control and curbs on construction. The spike followed the Supreme Court’s relaxation allowing green crackers within fixed hours. The IMD warned of further deterioration after Diwali. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta urged citizens to celebrate safely and use only green crackers. (PC: India Today)

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)