Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala briefly halted operations to allow a centuries-old Hindu temple procession to pass through its runway. As part of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple’s Painkuni festival, ornate chariots and decorated elephants traversed a 2km runway stretch. This rare tradition dates back to 1932, when the Travancore royal family built the airport. Now managed by Adani Group, the airport coordinates closures twice a year for these events, rescheduling flights and enhancing security. It’s one of the few airports globally that pauses for religious rites, blending sacred heritage with modern aviation. (PC: BBC)

Violent protests erupted in West Bengal and Assam over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, altering management of Muslim charitable properties. In Murshidabad, clashes led to three deaths, including a Hindu father and son, and a 17-year-old boy. Protesters set ablaze malls, vehicles, and attacked homes. Over 500 residents fled to Malda district. Fresh violence occurred in South 24 Parganas. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders, suspended internet, and deployed troops following a court directive. More than 200 arrests were made. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged peaceful protests, while BJP accused her party of appeasement. The Waqf law, passed by Parliament, has been criticized for targeting Muslims, though the government claims it aims for reform. (PC: BBC & Maktoob Media)

On April 14, 2025, comedian Vir Das criticized Air India for failing to provide a pre-booked wheelchair for his wife, who has a broken leg, after their ₹50,000-per-seat flight from Mumbai to Delhi. He also reported broken tables, leg rests, and a malfunctioning seat. Air India responded, expressing empathy and attributing the delay—not denial—to unusually high demand for wheelchairs and staff shortages at the time. The airline stated that cabin crew offered assistance, including deplaning via an ambulift, and acknowledged that the experience fell short of expectations. Air India emphasized its commitment to improving accessibility and comfort for all passengers. (PC: Air India & Vir Das/Instagram)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the recent violence in West Bengal during Waqf protests, asserting that "danda is the treatment for rioters." He emphasized the necessity of strict action against those disrupting societal harmony. Adityanath drew parallels between the current unrest and historical invasions, suggesting a persistent divisive mindset. He criticized opposition parties for allegedly fostering caste-based politics that fracture the social fabric. Highlighting incidents in Sambhal and Bangladesh, he claimed a consistent pattern of societal division. His remarks have sparked controversy, with opponents accusing him of deepening societal rifts. The Chief Minister's statements have reignited debates on law enforcement and communal harmony in the region. (PC: NDTV & Mathrubhumi)

India and the U.S. are set to hold another round of trade talks in May, aiming to resolve ongoing tariff disputes and enhance bilateral trade. The discussions will focus on expanding trade, improving market access, and reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers. This follows U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods starting April 2, unless India lowers its tariffs on American products. In response, India has reduced its average industrial tariffs from 13.5% to 10.66%, signaling a willingness to negotiate. Both nations are working towards a mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), with the goal of finalizing its first phase by fall 2025. (PC: The Tribune)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is closely monitoring the recent violence in West Bengal, with sources indicating that preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of Bangladeshi infiltrators. The MHA is particularly concerned about the potential role of these infiltrators in destabilizing the region. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Border Security Force (BSF) of facilitating the entry of infiltrators, alleging a central government blueprint behind these actions. She has directed the state's Director General of Police to investigate the matter and plans to write a strongly worded letter to the Centre. The situation has escalated tensions between the state and central governments, with both sides exchanging serious allegations. (PC: Deccan Herald & Mathrubhumi)

Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised Harvard University for standing firm against demands from the Trump administration to curb campus activism and diversity initiatives. After President Trump threatened to freeze $2.2 billion in federal funding, Harvard refused to comply, defending academic freedom and institutional autonomy. University President Alan Garber stated that no government should dictate what private institutions teach or whom they admit. In a post on X, Obama called Harvard’s move “an example” for others to follow, commending the university for protecting intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate, and mutual respect amid rising political pressure. (PC: India Today)

Following a devastating Russian missile strike in Sumy that killed 35 and injured 117, U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy by blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the ongoing war with Russia. Trump said Zelensky "started a war against someone 20 times his size" and criticized him for seeking Western aid instead of pursuing peace. Trump also blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Joe Biden, saying "millions are dead" because of their decisions. The remarks follow Trump's tense relationship with Zelensky and come amid backlash over his softer stance on Russia and Putin. (PC: Getty Images)

Pop icon Katy Perry marked her return to Earth with a heartfelt post after joining Blue Origin’s historic all-female space mission. Perry, along with five other women including Lauren Sanchez, Amanda Nguyen, Gayle King, and Aisha Bowe, soared 105 km above Earth aboard the New Shepard spacecraft. The 11-minute flight made them the first all-female crew in over 60 years to venture into space. During the trip, Perry performed “What a Wonderful World,” adding a musical touch to the momentous journey. Upon returning, she tweeted, “There’s no place like home,” celebrating her successful return and the groundbreaking mission. (PC: 

French YouTuber Victor Blaho was left traumatised after a grueling 46-hour train journey across India. Documenting his travels from Mumbai to Delhi via Varanasi and Agra, Blaho experienced multiple railway classes, encountering overcrowded coaches, noise, dirt, rats, and cockroaches. In a YouTube video titled “DO NOT Attempt a 46H Train Journey in India – It BROKE ME!”, he shared his ordeal, including sleepless nights and unwanted interactions. Expressing despair, Blaho urged travelers to avoid budget train classes and book premium options if possible. “I want to go home now,” he confessed, citing a need for peace, cleanliness, and rest. (PC: YouTube@samesamevic)