A theatre in Ontario, Canada, has stopped screening Indian films after two violent attacks. Film.ca Cinemas in Oakville was first targeted on September 25, when suspects tried to set fire to the entrance. A week later, on October 2, a gunman fired several shots at the theatre doors. Police believe the attacks were targeted and are investigating. The theatre cancelled screenings of Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG for safety. Another venue, York Cinemas, also suspended Indian movies. Authorities suspect possible extremist links, but no motive has been confirmed. Police have asked the public for information. (PC: film.ca)

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “reasonable and wise leader, who defends India’s national interests.” Speaking at the Valdai forum in Sochi, he said, “Indian people will never accept humiliation. I know PM Modi; he will never take steps of this kind.” Putin confirmed he will visit India in December. He also criticised US pressure on India and China to cut energy imports from Russia. Calling India a “special strategic partner,” Putin said Russia may buy more farm goods and medicines from India to fix trade imbalance and boost economic cooperation. (PC: Reuters)

Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, is on high alert today after last week’s violence over the ‘I Love Muhammad’ row. Security has been tightened with police, PAC, RAF and drones deployed in sensitive areas. Internet services remain suspended in Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun until Saturday to stop rumours and maintain peace. Last Friday, over 2,000 protestors clashed with police after a planned demonstration was cancelled. The violence led to 81 arrests. Ahead of prayers today, senior clerics have appealed for calm and asked people to return home peacefully after offering prayers. Authorities have warned strict action against any disturbances. (PC: HT)

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has eclipsed Australia’s Mitchell Starc to claim the most Test wickets in 2025. In the first Test against the West Indies, Siraj secured three wickets before lunch, raising his annual tally to 30 wickets, surpassing Starc’s 29. Known for consistently breaking top orders and striking in crucial middle overs, Siraj has emerged as the spearhead of India’s bowling attack this year. His rise is particularly significant as he shoulders greater responsibility in India’s pace unit, especially with the team rotating senior fast bowlers under load management strategies.  

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi of the Taliban is set to visit New Delhi between October 9 and 16, marking the first high-level diplomatic engagement from Kabul to India since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. The UN Security Council has granted him a temporary exemption from travel restrictions, enabling the visit. India and the Taliban have already held multiple discussions this year focused on humanitarian aid and cooperation. The trip signals a potential turning point in India-Afghanistan relations, with implications for regional diplomacy and security. (PC: NDTV)

Kolkata marked Dashami with the immersion of Durga idols, bringing Durga Puja celebrations to a close. From family pujas to small para committees, idols were carried in colourful processions through neighbourhoods to the Hooghly and other city ghats. Many devotees sang and danced to dhaak beats, while others watched tearfully as idols were immersed. Kolkata Police and civic bodies set up barricades, cranes, and lighting for safety. Volunteers guided crowds and ensured order. Authorities also urged the removal of non-biodegradable materials before immersion. As idols sank, chants of “Asche bochor abar hobe” echoed, promising the goddess’ return next year. (PC: X, the telegraph)

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) has erupted in violent protests, leaving at least 12 civilians dead and over 200 injured. Pakistani forces opened fire and used tear gas to disperse demonstrators in Muzaffarabad, Dheerkot, and Dadyal. Protesters, led by the Awami Action Committee, are demanding tax relief, cheaper flour and electricity, and the end of reserved assembly seats for refugees. Markets remain shut and communication services blocked. Slogans of “Kashmir is ours” echoed across towns, directly challenging Pakistan’s rule. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a negotiation committee, while appeals for UN intervention highlight the region’s worsening humanitarian crisis. (PC: India Today)

Two people were killed and three others injured in a car ramming and stabbing outside a synagogue in Manchester, UK, on Yom Kippur. Greater Manchester Police declared the incident a terror attack. The suspect was shot by armed officers and is believed to be dead, though bomb experts are checking suspicious items on his body. The attack sparked fear among residents, with witnesses recalling loud bangs. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the assault was “horrific” and ordered extra police at synagogues nationwide. King Charles III also expressed sadness, calling the attack deeply shocking for the Jewish community.

Israel intercepted a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza and detained 443 activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The boats, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, were stopped in international waters, which critics called illegal. Israel said the vessels violated its naval blockade. Colombia expelled Israeli diplomats and ended its trade deal with Israel, calling the act a “crime.” Amnesty International called the blockade unlawful, while protests erupted across Europe and Asia. Israel said all detainees are “safe and healthy.” The flotilla had sailed from Spain with food and medicine for Gaza, where UN reports confirm famine. (PC: BBC)

Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1 had a massive opening at the box office, earning ₹65.3 crore on its first day, according to Sacnilk. The film, released during Dusshera, is one of the biggest Kannada and pan-India releases of the year. It has crossed the opening collections of films like Saiyaara (₹22 crore), Sikandar (₹26 crore), Chhaava (₹31 crore), and even Rajinikanth’s Coolie (₹65 crore) by a small margin. Actor Jr NTR praised the film, calling Shetty both a “mindblowing actor and brilliant director.” The movie has received positive reviews for its performances and portrayal of folk traditions with modern storytelling.