Cyclone Asna has formed over the Arabian Sea, intensifying from a deep depression that caused severe flooding in Gujarat. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for the Kutch region, where torrential rains have led to waterlogging in several towns, including Bhuj and Mandvi. Despite some areas remaining dry, the cyclone is expected to move west-northwestward over the next two days. Over 26 people have died due to rain-related incidents in Gujarat, with more than 18,000 displaced and around 1,200 rescued.

Russia has launched its third major bombardment of Ukraine in four days, targeting Kyiv and other cities with missiles and drones. Ukraine’s military reported that one of the newly received F-16 warplanes crashed during Monday's attack, killing the pilot, Col. Alexei “Moonfish” Mes. The crash is the first loss of an F-16 in Ukraine. Amid the ongoing strikes, Ukraine's air defenses intercepted many Russian drones and missiles. President Zelenskyy continues to urge Western allies to lift restrictions on long-range strikes against Russia to expedite the end of the conflict.

A hidden camera discovered in a girls’ hostel washroom at Gudlavalleru College of Engineering in Andhra Pradesh has led to a massive student protest. The incident reportedly involved the circulation of over 300 videos among students. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered an inquiry, and a final-year student has been detained. Despite the college administration's denial of any hidden cameras, students demand justice and increased security. Police are investigating, and Krishna District officials are monitoring the situation closely.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Ukraine's Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk, effective Friday. This decision follows a tragic incident on Monday when an F-16 jet crashed, killing its pilot during a major Russian assault. Zelensky cited the need to strengthen command levels but did not specify the reasons for Oleshchuk's dismissal. General Lieutenant Anatoliy Kryvonozhka will temporarily assume the role of Air Force Commander. The crash's cause remains under investigation, with no evidence suggesting it was caused by Russian fire. The F-16s represent a significant development in Ukraine's defense efforts against Russia's ongoing invasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has apologised for the collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Maharashtra. Speaking at the Vadhvan Port project event in Palghar, Modi expressed deep regret to the Maratha king's followers, stating, “I bow my head at his feet and apologise.” The statue, unveiled last year, fell on August 26, sparking widespread outrage. The Indian Navy and Maharashtra Public Works Department are investigating the incident, and a structural consultant has been arrested. Modi also condemned the opposition's criticism of Veer Savarkar, highlighting the government's commitment to upholding revered figures.

Kolkata Police rejected claims by the CBI that the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital crime scene, where a 31-year-old trainee doctor was raped and murdered, was compromised. The CBI had earlier alleged the crime scene was tampered with, and the victim's family was misled about the nature of her death. The police clarified that all individuals present were authorized and that the viral photo was taken after the inquest. The case, involving civic volunteer Sanjay Roy, has ignited nationwide protests, with demonstrators demanding justice and stricter laws to prevent violence against women.

India’s Sheetal Devi, the only female armless archer at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, stunned everyone by shooting 703 points out of 720 in the women's individual compound archery event. Despite surpassing the previous world record of 698, she narrowly missed out on the title as Turkey's Oznur Girdi Cure set a new record with 704 points. Born with Phocomelia, a condition causing under-developed limbs, Sheetal uses her right leg and shoulder to shoot. The archer from Jammu and Kashmir has already made history, winning multiple medals at the Asian Para Games and inspiring countless people worldwide.                

The UK government plans to require employers to offer flexible working hours, including a four-day week, while ensuring full-time hours. Deputy PM Angela Rayner is leading the initiative, aiming to introduce legislation this autumn. Although businesses will not be forced to implement four-day weeks, employers must offer flexible hours unless it is "not reasonably feasible." Conservatives like Kevin Hollinrake have raised concerns about the potential impact on businesses, citing increased costs. However, a recent trial showed positive outcomes for companies that adopted a four-day work week. The proposal is part of Labour's "New Deal for Working People."

Tourists, including expat Indians, are cancelling trips to West Bengal for Durga Puja, fearing safety issues. This is due to recent crimes on the RG Kar Medical College campus and subsequent protests. Tour operators are hoping the situation will improve before the festive season. Anil Punjabi of the Travel Agents Federation of India noted that the state had seen a 10%-18% rise in foreign tourist footfall for Durga Puja until 2023, but this year, concerns about safety have caused cancellations. The ongoing agitation about women's safety is deterring international visitors, with some choosing alternate destinations like Nepal.

Angelina Jolie was moved to tears during the premiere of her latest film, Maria, at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. The Oscar-winning actress, who portrays opera singer Maria Callas, received an eight-minute standing ovation at the Sala Grande Theater on August 29. Jolie, visibly emotional, embraced director Pablo Larraín and cast members as the audience applauded. The film, depicting Callas's life and final days, has garnered significant acclaim. Jolie expressed that the role offered a profound emotional release, describing it as “therapy I didn’t realize I needed.”