Tamil Nadu police have accused actor-politician Vijay of a “deliberate display of political power” during his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur, where 41 people died in a stampede. Police said Vijay’s delayed arrival, repeated unsanctioned halts, and crowd-pulling tactics aggravated the situation, overwhelming security arrangements. The event, already under scrutiny for safety lapses, turned deadly when ropes and barricades blocked escape routes. Authorities allege his team ignored guidelines and prioritized optics over safety. The tragedy has sparked political controversy, with critics questioning both Vijay’s responsibility and the administration’s preparedness.  

Kolkata hosted its first AI-generated alpona near Newtown, blending tradition with digital design. Local artists collaborated with an electronics brand to create the pattern, which was then painted as a large street mural. Muralist Anindita Dev led the team, working overnight for six nights to bring the AI design to life. “It’s the first AI-generated alpona in the city. We worked all night for six days, putting everything into it. This is the biggest one I have done so far,” Dev said. The artwork is not linked to any pandal.

In Khagra and Chhari, Bangladesh, Hindu and Buddhist communities protesting the alleged rape of a non-Muslim tribal schoolgirl and temple desecrations were met with gunfire from the army after defying a ban on public gatherings (Section 144). The crackdown follows multiple reports since August 2024 of 152 temples desecrated, 157 homes vandalised, and cases of sexual violence against Hindu women. Protesters demanded justice, a district-wide blockade, and accountability amid rising communal tensions.

Thousands of people in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are protesting against the Shehbaz Sharif government. The Awami Action Committee (AAC) called for a “shutter-down and wheel-jam” strike. Protesters demand cheaper flour, fair electricity rates, and the removal of 12 refugee assembly seats. Islamabad sent thousands of troops and cut internet access to stop the movement. Talks between the AAC and the government broke down after 13 hours. “Enough is enough. Deliver on rights or face the wrath of the people,” said AAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. The situation remains tense as both sides refuse to step back.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and BJP leader L. Murugan visited the Karur stampede site in Tamil Nadu to meet survivors and the families of the deceased. The stampede occurred on 27 September 2025 during a political rally, resulting in around 41 deaths and many injuries. During their visit, they offered condolences, assessed relief efforts, and committed to extended support. Their presence aimed to provide reassurance, oversee aid distribution, and signal the central government’s attention to the tragedy and its aftermath.

Durga Puja 2025 in Kolkata has amazed devotees with Dum Dum Park Bharatchakra’s silver jubilee theme, “Tanmatra Aura.” The pandal blends light, holograms, and spirituality, creating a calm and futuristic space. Visitors enter through a spiral of LED lights that symbolise aura energy. Inside, Goddess Durga appears in a peaceful form without weapons, alongside her children. Artist Sushanta Shibani Pal designed the pandal to reflect the unseen force of aura that surrounds every being. Marking its 25th year, the club’s creation shows how tradition and modern imagination can meet, offering both beauty and a deep spiritual message. (PC: X)

At least 4 people were killed and 8 injured in a violent attack at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Police said 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford drove a vehicle into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opened fire, and set the building on fire. He was later shot dead by police. Hundreds were inside for Sunday service. Victims include people shot and others trapped in the fire. Authorities said gasoline was used as an accelerant. The FBI is leading the investigation. Michigan’s governor called the attack unacceptable, while church leaders urged prayers for peace and healing. (PC: BBC)

.In a dramatic turn of events following India's five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final, the Indian team declined to accept the trophy from Pakistan's Interior Minister and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President, Mohsin Naqvi. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had requested that the trophy be presented by a neutral official, but Naqvi insisted on conducting the ceremony himself. In protest, the Indian players refused to take the trophy, leading Naqvi to storm off the stage with the silverware. The incident has sparked outrage, with the BCCI planning to lodge a formal protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over Naqvi's actions. Despite the controversy, the Indian team celebrated their victory without the physical trophy, with Captain Suryakumar Yadav expressing disbelief at the unprecedented situation. The incident has added a political dimension to the sporting rivalry between the two nations.     

Indian para-athlete Shailesh Kumar secured his first World Para Athletics Championships gold in New Delhi, overcoming a fourth-place finish at the Paris Paralympics. Competing in the men's T63 high jump, he cleared 1.91 meters, setting a championship record and surpassing reigning Paralympic champion Ezra Frech, who jumped 1.85 meters. Varun Singh Bhatti also cleared 1.85 meters, earning the bronze. Kumar, who contracted polio in his right leg as a child, expressed immense joy, stating, "I am very happy we have won two medals for India." 

The Global Sumud aid flotilla, comprising 44 vessels, has reached waters north of Marsa Matrouh on Egypt's Mediterranean coast. Organizers announced plans to sail toward Alexandria within hours, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The lead vessels, OHWAYLA and ALL IN, are approximately 678 kilometers from Gaza, with an estimated arrival in 3 to 4 days. The International Committee for Breaking the Siege on Gaza expressed concerns, stating, "We expect the Zionists to commit a war crime against us at any time as we are getting closer to Gaza." A boat carrying over 100 journalists and medical professionals is scheduled to depart on October 1 to join the mission. (PC: Reuters)