In a surprising development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to hold direct peace talks with Ukraine for the first time since the war began in 2022, according to Russian state TV. Following a 30-hour Easter ceasefire, which he announced unilaterally, Putin said Moscow remains open to more ceasefires and peace initiatives. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that bilateral negotiations are on the table. Ukraine, meanwhile, has not responded directly to the offer but will attend peace talks in London with Western allies. Russia’s defence ministry claims Ukraine carried out 900 drone attacks during the truce, causing civilian casualties. (PC: AP)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted US Vice President JD Vance and his family at his official residence in Delhi during Vance’s first official visit to India. Both leaders reviewed the rapid progress in the first phase of the India-US trade deal and reaffirmed their goal of achieving $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. They also discussed regional and global matters, stressing dialogue and diplomacy. Modi extended warm wishes to Vance’s family and expressed optimism for deeper ties. The leaders emphasized cooperation in defence, energy, and technology, while Modi looked forward to President Trump’s upcoming visit to India. (PC:X/narendramodi)

India will observe a three-day state mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at age 88 due to complications from double pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed. As a mark of respect, the national flag will fly at half-mast from April 22-23 and on the day of the Pope's funeral. Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, was known for his humility, compassion, and global influence during his 12-year papacy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, recalling their meeting and the Pope’s message of peace and inclusion. Official entertainment is suspended during the mourning period.( PC: Getty)

Shubman Gill delivered a commanding performance against his former team, leading Gujarat Titans (GT) to a 39-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025. Gill scored a scintillating 90 off 55 balls, anchoring GT’s total of 198/3. In response, only KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane offered resistance, as the rest of the batting order crumbled. All GT bowlers chipped in with wickets, tightening their grip at the top of the points table. With this loss, KKR now sits seventh and four points away from the playoff spots, making their qualification hopes increasingly slim.( PC: BCCI)

FIFA has officially released its 2026 World Cup host city posters, showcasing a vibrant mix of art and culture from the 16 cities set to host matches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Each poster, created by local artists, reflects the unique spirit of its city—ranging from astronauts in Houston to underwater lobsters in Boston. The Dallas poster features a cowboy executing a bicycle kick, while Guadalajara bursts with color and heritage. The tradition of venue-specific World Cup posters began in 1998, and the 2026 collection raises the bar with its surreal, bold, and imaginative visuals.

Kristen Stewart and screenwriter Dylan Meyer have officially tied the knot in an intimate ceremony held in the backyard of Stewart’s Los Angeles home. The couple, who got engaged in 2021 after publicly confirming their relationship in 2019, reportedly obtained their marriage license just days before the wedding. According to TMZ, the ceremony took place on Sunday and was attended by close friends, including Ashley Benson and her husband Brandon Jack James. Stewart wore a gray skirt-blouse set with a white crop top, while Meyer donned a sheer white top and beige satin skirt. The couple has yet to comment publicly. (PC: X/popbase)

The sudden death of Pope Francis during Easter has left the world in mourning, sparking global interest in the centuries-old tradition of the papal conclave. Coincidentally, Ralph Fiennes’ 2024 film 'Conclave'—which portrays a tense papal election following a pope’s death—has gained renewed relevance. Directed by Edward Berger, the film explores power struggles, ideological rifts, and spiritual dilemmas behind closed Vatican doors. As the real-life Sacred College of Cardinals prepares to elect a new pope, Conclave mirrors the Church’s internal complexities and the high stakes of its future. Art and reality intertwine at a historic moment for Catholicism.

Shubman Gill’s brilliant 90 off 55 balls helped Gujarat Titans post a challenging total of 198/3 against Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2025 encounter. Gill, playing against his former side, formed a solid opening partnership of 114 runs with B Sai Sudharsan, who contributed 52. Despite Jos Buttler being dropped twice, he made KKR pay with a quickfire 41. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and chose to bowl, but couldn’t contain the GT batsmen. KKR will need 199 to win as they chase down the target with Sunil Narine and Rahmanullah Gurbaz opening the innings. (PC: BCCI)

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, confirmed by the Vatican. Jorge Bergoglio, who became Pope in 2013, dedicated his life to promoting interfaith relations, environmental protection, and peace, notably calling for an end to the Gaza conflict. Following his death, thousands have gathered in St. Peter’s Square to mourn his loss and honor his legacy of compassion and service. A prayer service led by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti will take place in the square tonight to pay tribute to the beloved pope. (PC: BBC)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with US Vice President JD Vance at his Delhi residence on Monday. Accompanied by his wife Usha and their children, Vance's visit aims to fast-track a US-India trade deal amid the looming threat of Donald Trump’s paused tariffs. The Vance family earlier visited Akshardham temple and a local emporium. Security was heightened in Delhi as Vance met with key Indian officials including S. Jaishankar and Ajit Doval. The talks focused on strengthening economic and strategic ties. Vance is scheduled to visit Jaipur and Agra next, blending diplomacy with cultural engagements. (PC: ANI)