After defeating Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final, the Indian cricket team refused to accept the trophy from ACC Chairman and Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, citing political tensions. The unprecedented act delayed the presentation ceremony and drew sharp criticism from cricketing authorities and fans alike. Former Pakistan players and officials called for India’s suspension from ICC tournaments, arguing that the act undermined the spirit of the game. While India celebrated their ninth Asia Cup title, the incident has intensified debates over the intersection of politics and sport, with the ICC under pressure to respond.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, unveiled a 20-point peace plan to end the Gaza conflict. The plan proposes an immediate ceasefire, a hostage-prisoner exchange, phased Israeli withdrawal, Hamas disarmament, and a transitional government overseen by an international body. While Israel has agreed, Hamas has yet to accept the terms. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called it a “historic opportunity” for peace but stressed the necessity of Hamas’s consent. The international community watches closely, as the plan’s success hinges on Hamas’s acceptance or continued military escalation. (PC: AFP)

A bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tavistock Square, London, was vandalised on September 29, 2025, just days before the annual Gandhi Jayanti commemorations. The plinth was found defaced with anti-India graffiti. The Indian High Commission in London condemned the act as a "violent attack on the idea of non-violence," emphasizing its timing three days before the International Day of Non-Violence. The mission has reported the incident to local authorities and is coordinating efforts to restore the statue to its original state. The bronze statue was unveiled in 1968 as a tribute to Gandhi's time as a law student at University College London.   

India’s drug regulator, CDSCO, has approved Ozempic (semaglutide), a once-weekly injectable by Danish firm Novo Nordisk, for managing Type 2 diabetes and aiding weight management. Novo Nordisk India MD Vikrant Shrotriya called it a “much-needed move” to modernize chronic disease care. Ozempic complements existing treatments like oral semaglutide and Wegovy for advanced obesity management. With semaglutide’s patent set to expire in March 2026, generic versions could enhance accessibility and affordability in India. Amid rising lifestyle-related illnesses, Ozempic’s launch is a key step toward expanding effective treatment options for diabetes and obesity patients nationwide.

The 2025 Mysuru Dasara celebrations achieved a new Guinness World Record with a mesmerizing drone display featuring 2,983 drones forming a giant tiger in the night sky. This surpassed the previous record of 1,985 drones. The event, held at the Bannimantap Parade Grounds, showcased intricate formations including the solar system, peacock, dolphin, eagle, Lord Krishna dancing on a serpent, and the Karnataka state map. The Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (CESC) orchestrated the show, which also featured a musical performance by playback singer Kunal Ganjawala. The record-breaking display highlighted the fusion of technology and tradition, captivating a massive audience.

Australian actress Nicole Kidman and country singer Keith Urban have announced their separation after almost 20 years of marriage. The couple, married in June 2006, reportedly began living apart in June 2025, despite Kidman’s recent anniversary tribute on Instagram. Sources indicate that Urban has moved out of their Nashville home, while Kidman has made efforts to save the relationship. They share two daughters, Sunday Rose (17) and Faith Margaret (14). The separation marks the end of a high-profile Hollywood marriage, with both continuing their professional commitments amid this personal change.  

A statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tavistock Square, London, was vandalised with graffiti just days before Gandhi Jayanti and the UN’s International Day of Non-Violence. The Indian High Commission in the UK strongly condemned the act, describing it as a “violent attack on nonviolence.” Officials have contacted British authorities and urged a swift investigation and restoration. The bronze statue, sculpted by Fredda Brilliant and unveiled in 1968, has long stood as a symbol of Gandhi’s legacy of peace. The incident has sparked outrage among the Indian diaspora and global peace advocates.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has endorsed US President Donald Trump’s new 20-point Gaza peace plan, calling it a “viable pathway to long-term and sustainable peace, security and development” in the conflict-torn region. Modi emphasized that the proposal offers a rare chance to end violence, restore stability, and ensure humanitarian relief. India, maintaining balanced ties with both Israel and Palestine, reiterated its support for diplomatic solutions. The endorsement highlights New Delhi’s role as a global peace advocate. Trump’s plan is gaining international attention, with leaders debating its feasibility amid ongoing tensions in Gaza and the broader Middle East. (PC: X)

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Karur West district secretary Mathiyazhagan has been arrested in connection with a deadly stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The stampede struck when over 25,000 people gathered—more than twice the expected crowd. In the chaos, 41 people died, including 10 children and 18 women. He is charged with murder, culpable homicide and endangering public safety. The FIR also names Vijay and other senior TVK leaders, alleging delays, violations and negligence. 

ACC president and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has set conditions for returning the Asia Cup trophy to India, according to Cricbuzz reports. Naqvi will hand over the trophy and medals only if a formal function is arranged where he personally presents them to the Indian team. However, India remains firm on not accepting awards from Pakistan's Interior Minister. The trophy is currently at ACC headquarters near the stadium. India celebrated with an imaginary trophy after their five-wicket victory. BCCI will raise the matter at November's ICC meeting and September 30's ACC meeting in Dubai. Multiple controversies marked the tournament, including handshake refusals and board complaints. (PC: X)