A stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, killed 40 people and injured dozens. The crowd, much larger than expected, caused panic and fainting, forcing Vijay to pause his speech and call for police help. Police have filed cases against TVK district secretary Mathiazhagan, general secretary Bussy Anand, and joint general secretary C T Nirmal Kumar under charges including culpable homicide and endangering life. Chief Minister MK Stalin visited victims, announced compensation, and set up an inquiry. Vijay expressed sorrow and promised support to families, while Prime Minister Modi condemned the tragedy. (PC: India Today)

A strange moment took place before the Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai. Ravi Shastri, who hosted the toss, spoke only with India captain Suryakumar Yadav after he chose to bowl first. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha was instead interviewed by Waqar Younis. Reports say PCB had requested a neutral presenter for the final. The move left fans surprised and sparked debate online. India also suffered a setback as Hardik Pandya was ruled out with a niggle. Rinku Singh came in, while Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube replaced Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI. (PC: NDTV)

During a pivotal meeting at the White House, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir presented U.S. President Donald Trump with a display of rare earth minerals, underscoring Pakistan's rich mineral resources. This gesture follows a $500 million investment agreement between Pakistan's Frontier Works Organisation and U.S. Strategic Metals, aiming to establish a poly-metallic refinery. Sharif emphasized the potential for U.S. investment in Pakistan's agriculture, IT, and energy sectors. The meeting, attended by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening Pakistan-U.S. relations. 

Navratri 2025 celebrations have taken social media by storm in Pakistan, with videos of Garba and Dandiya dances going viral. The Indian festival, traditionally celebrated with music, dance, and devotion, is gaining popularity among diverse communities in Pakistan, reflecting a cultural crossover. Clips from various cities show participants enthusiastically performing traditional dances, dressed in vibrant attire, generating excitement online. Social media users have praised the celebrations for promoting cultural appreciation and cross-border unity. Experts say such trends highlight the influence of Indian traditions beyond national boundaries, fostering shared cultural experiences and mutual understanding between the two nations.

Canada may gain from US H-1B visa changes after President Donald Trump raised the fee to $100,000. Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada could hold on to talent that often moves south. Immigration experts see a chance for Canada to attract skilled workers, but warn its own system has problems. In 2023, 10,000 people applied within 24 hours for Canada’s H-1B work permit program. Lawyers say some did move north, though many still face hurdles in getting permanent residency. Economists warn wages are lower than in the US, but agree Canada should act quickly to seize the opportunity. (PC: BBC)

Kolkata's Arjunpur Amra Sabai Club presents 'Mukho Mukhi' (Face to Face), a futuristic Durga Puja pandal blending kinetic art with Bengali tradition. Conceptualized by artist Shovin Bhattacharjee, the installation features reflective stainless steel structures and blue lighting exploring the spiritual concept of "Antarjami" - knowing one's inner self. The pandal invites visitors to confront their reflections in a dialogue between individual and divine. Sculptor Shampa Bhattacharjee crafted the Maa Durga idol combining traditional grace with modern aesthetics, while Bimal Paul spent three days perfecting the goddess's lifelike eyes. The eco-conscious idol uses clay and natural colors, reinforcing sustainability commitments while creating a striking fusion of spirituality and futurism.

China's Huawei Grand Canyon Bridge in Guizhou province has opened as the world's new tallest bridge, standing 625 meters above the Beipan River. The 2,890-meter-long structure is nearly nine times taller than San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge, dramatically reducing canyon crossing time from two hours to just two minutes. Guizhou province now hosts almost half of the world's tallest bridges, establishing itself as a global engineering hub. This infrastructure achievement represents China's continued advancement in bridge construction technology and highlights the province's strategic importance in connecting previously isolated regions through innovative transportation solutions that overcome challenging mountainous terrain.

Zubeen Garg's family has filed a complaint with Assam CID demanding a thorough investigation into the 52-year-old singer's death in Singapore on September 19. His wife Garima Saikia, sister Palme Borthakur, and uncle Manoj Kumar Borthakur approached authorities questioning the circumstances of his alleged accidental drowning during a yacht party. The Assam government established a Special Investigating Team after requesting a second post-mortem. FIRs were filed against manager Siddharth and event organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, with CID raids conducted at their homes. Both must appear before CID by October 6 or face strict action. Zubeen was cremated with state honors on September 23 in Kamarkuchi village. (PC: India Today NE)

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir presented rare earth minerals to US President Donald Trump during a White House meeting, aiming to strengthen Pakistan-US ties. The 90-minute Oval Office discussion included VP JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, covering security, economic engagement, counterterrorism, and investment opportunities. The US expressed strong interest in Pakistan's rare earth minerals, crypto mining potential, and oil exploration prospects. Earlier this month, US Strategic Metals signed a $500 million investment deal with Pakistan covering critical minerals including antimony, copper, gold, and tungsten. Pakistan claims mineral reserves worth trillions of dollars, hoping foreign investment will help overcome its prolonged financial crisis. (PC: X)

India and Pakistan meet in the Asia Cup 2025 final at Dubai International Stadium. This match is not only about cricket but also about emotions, rivalry, and pressure. India entered the final after a thrilling Super Over against Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s spinners are expected to play a key role. Dubai Police have set strict rules for fans, banning flags, firecrackers, and sharp objects. Those creating trouble may face heavy fines. There are doubts over Hardik Pandya’s fitness, while Jasprit Bumrah is under pressure to deliver. With both teams fighting hard, the final promises high drama on and off the field. (PC: X)