Nigeria's main opposition parties are calling for fresh elections, describing results currently being announced by electoral body as "heavily doctored and manipulated," in a joint press conference in the capital, Abuja.
Tuesday, 28 February 2023
Turkey's Red Crescent criticized for selling tents to charity instead of giving them to quake victims
Turkey's Red Crescent organization has been criticized by lawmakers and citizens after revelations that it sold tents to a charity instead of donating them to people in urgent need after the massive earthquake that claimed more than 44,000 lives earlier this month.
Brexit slammed the UK economy. The new Northern Ireland deal gives it hope
The breakthrough deal on Northern Ireland's trading arrangements heralds a reset in the often thorny relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union — and could be the first step to repairing some of the damage Brexit has done to the UK economy.
Zendaya, Michelle Yeoh and more of the best-dressed stars at the SAG Awards 2023
As Hollywood's biggest names gathered for the 29th Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, it soon became clear that they were out to have fun. Sunday evening's red carpet was alive with playful detailing, sparkling sequins and saturated color.
Netanyahu's crises mount as tens of thousands of Israelis protest across the country
Benjamin Netanyahu has not even been back in power two months, and already he faces unprecedented, multi-faceted challenges on nearly every front.
Monday, 27 February 2023
Children and women among 63 dead as migrant boat hits rocks near Italy
At least 63 people including an infant, children and several women, died after a wooden boat carrying migrants broke apart on rocks off the coast of Calabria, Italian authorities say.
One year into Ukraine war, US gas prices are lower. Here's what to expect ahead
For Ukraine, the year since Russia's invasion has been one of widespread death, destruction and displacement, as millions had their lives changed forever. Americans got off easy by comparison, with most feeling the impact of the war only at the gas pump.
„When the Woodlark Sings“ – Honorable Mention & Official Selection at the Florence Film Awards
We are delighted that our film received the HONORABLE MENTION for BEST ORIGINAL SCORE and at the same time the OFFICIAL SELECTION for BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY at the Florence Film Awards in Italy! We are honored that our film was very well received in the beautiful city of Florence! We thank all our film team members and all supporters!
Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/oXuEJiN3rD0
Watch the music video: https://youtu.be/sDsy_MdP4gE
More information: https://heidelerche-film.cittador.com/
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„When the Woodlark Sings“ – Official Selection at the SANFICI
GREAT NEWS! Official Selection in INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION at SANFICI - Santander Festival internacional de cine independiente in Bucaramanga, Colombia! SANFICI promises "5 intense days of the best independent cinema"! Our film will be shown on February 23, 2023 at 4pm at the Auditorio Luis A. Calvo - which makes us tremendously happy because the auditorium seats 989! We thank the cast and crew, and all the supporters who believed in us!
Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/oXuEJiN3rD0
Watch the music video: https://youtu.be/sDsy_MdP4gE
More information: https://heidelerche-film.cittador.com/
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Missing Chinese billionaire CEO assisting authorities in investigation, company says
Missing Chinese CEO Bao Fan is cooperating in an investigation by "certain authorities in the People's Republic of China," his company said in a statement Sunday.
Sunday, 26 February 2023
Dry canals, low rivers and shrunken lakes: Europe braces for severe drought amid winter heatwave
A winter heatwave, record low levels of rain and a startling lack of snow in Europe are pushing rivers, canals and lakes across the continent to alarmingly low levels, with experts warning there could be repeat of last year's severe droughts.
About 160,000 people protest against Netanyahu's judicial overhaul in Tel Aviv
About 160,000 people demonstrated in Tel Aviv Saturday night against the Israeli government's plans to weaken the country's judicial system, crowd expert Ofer Grinboim Liron told CNN. That would make it one of the biggest single demonstrations yet against the legislation.
Two Israelis shot and killed in the West Bank, settler leader says
Two Israelis were shot and killed in the West Bank Sunday, local settler leader Yossi Dagan said, calling it "an extremely serious terrorist attack."
El Salvador begins transferring thousands to 'mega prison' amid gang crackdown
El Salvador's government moved thousands of suspected gang members to a newly opened "mega prison" on Friday, the latest step in a controversial crackdown on crime that has caused the Central American nation's prison population to soar.
Armed group has released its last three hostages in Papua New Guinea, says prime minister
A group of hostages being held for ransom by armed criminals in a remote region of Papua New Guinea have all now been freed, the country's Prime Minister James Marape said Sunday.
India's opposition vows to keep 'raising questions about Adani group' after spokesperson arrested
When dozens of security personnel crowded onto the runway of New Delhi's Indira Gandhi Airport on Thursday, it was not to capture a terrorist or fleeing criminal mastermind, or even to apprehend an unruly passenger.
Major new museum in India tackles art world bias and the male gaze
India's long-awaited MAP Museum of Art and Photography, a major new cultural institution in the southern city of Bengaluru, welcomed its first visitors this month, offering a glimpse at a 60,000-item collection that may help reframe the subcontinent's art history.
Saturday, 25 February 2023
Seven months since he left office, Britain is still reeling from Boris Johnson
Seven months since he announced his resignation as prime minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson's shadow still looms large over the ruling Conservative party.
Flight from Auckland lands 16 hours later in ... Auckland
It's the stuff of nightmares. You're trying to get somewhere, you've prepped and planned and you're doing your best and yet you end up right back where you started.
Donate now to a Top 10 CNN Hero
Anderson Cooper explains how you can easily donate to any of the 2021 Top 10 CNN Heroes.
Friday, 24 February 2023
India's opposition vows to keep 'raising questions about Adani group' after spokesperson arrested
When dozens of security personnel crowded onto the runway of New Delhi's Indira Gandhi Airport on Thursday, it was not to capture a terrorist or fleeing criminal mastermind, or even to apprehend an unruly passenger.
The heavily armed DMZ separating North and South Korea has become a wildlife haven
Between North and South Korea lies the demilitarized zone (DMZ), one of the world's most heavily armed borders. The 160-mile stretch is barred with fences and landmines and is largely empty of human activity.
Thursday, 23 February 2023
European Commission bans TikTok from official devices
The European Commission has banned TikTok from official devices because of concerns about cybersecurity, a move sharply criticized by the company in its latest run-in with Western governments over how it handles user data.
Letter written by King Charles to his 'granny' in 1955 found in attic
A childhood letter written by King Charles to his "granny" has been discovered by a couple living in Warwickshire, England, as they cleared out their attic during the Christmas break.
Three men arrested after Northern Ireland detective shot
Three men have been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a high-profile detective in Northern Ireland.
Khela Hobe, Review: Om Puri lives, six years after his death
Khela Hobe, Review: Om Puri lives, six years after his death
Your gut reaction on seeing a film like Khela Hobe is to lambast it, tear it to shreds and dump it in the bin. You can have a field day showcasing your linguistic prowess and delivering a lecture on the prolific use of demeaning adjectives. But somewhere along the line, a modicum of empathy surfaces. This is largely due to the passing away of lead actor Om Puri, a friend, who died over six years ago. Obviously, this film is more than six years old. Maybe they were planning to shoot many more scenes with Om, and his untimely death put paid to all their plans. Khela Hobe does have some soft star power besides Om Puri, in the shape of Mugdha Godse, Rati Agnihotri and Manoj Joshi. Manoj has the semblance of a role while Rati Agnihotri is mis-cast and wasted. Mugdha is the surprise packet
It is a tribute to the forbearance of distributors and exhibitors that they are releasing the film tomorrow. It will require similar forbearance for the film to stay at the cinemas at all. The problems of the film begin with the title itself. Khela Hobe literally translates into ‘There Will Be Play”, from the original Bengali. But why Bengali? The Khela or the Play in reference is election. A voice over tells you that in Raghavgad (which is variously defined as a village, a district, a small town and a city), elections happen ever-so-often: for the Parliament, for the Legislative Assemblies, for the Municipality, in colleges, etc. Well, I guess such elections happen in most parts of India. And it is clear from the narrative that one such election is going to take place now: that of the ‘Chairman.’ But things get queered up before even the nominations are filed because it is found that a madwoman in the village has been raped, and the bulge has begun to show.
Nothing to worry. Politician Bachchulal takes control of the situation and declares that he will look after the madwoman and her child, till it is born. He cashes in on the situation and rides a sympathy wave in the run-up to the elections. Bachchulal will have to contend with Girish Gupta, who has been a Chairman earlier. Also bent on fighting the election for the third time, on money borrowed from his in-laws, is Fareekbhai. Jumping into the fray is nautch-girl Shabnam, alias Shabbo, who has a score to settle with Thakur Virendra Pratap. Her answer to Bachchul is a DNA test to find out who impregnated the madwoman. At stake is ‘Chairmanship’, which will enable the winner to misappropriate large tracts of land.
Story and dialogue comes from the pen of Ravi Kumar. The story had the germ of an idea, and some novelty value, but this is an incomplete film, so we cannot really blame Ravi Kumar. On the other hand, the dialogue has so many erased sounds, perhaps necessary to get a U/A certificate. Sunil C. Sinha has probably been left with the task of completing a film that is at least half incomplete. In order to try and maintain the flow, he has inserted what are called NG (Not Good) takes. Many shots are incomplete. Om Puri’s sync sound is used, which is often slurry and sounds like the voice of an inebriated man. Perhaps he was too ill and yet obliged the makers of this film. Most of his shots do not have a definite ending, and hang in the air. The backbone of the story, the madwoman, is not shown at all, and when she is shown, towards the end, she seems to be someone else.
Om Puri as Fareek Bhai would probably say a few unpleasant things about this performance, had he been around to watch Khela Hobe. Mughda Godse as Shabbo has an ill-defined role, but the meatiest. She emerges the heroine by the time the film ends. Manoj Joshi as Bachchulal is hopelessly type-cast in a uni-dimensional role. Rushad Rana as Thakur Virendra Pratap looks impressive, but there’s not much in the acting column. Rati Agnihotri as Fareeq’s wife Rukhsana is cast as a shrew, with not too many scenes to get into histrionics. Sanjay Batra as Girish Gupta is quite convincing. Ratan Mayal as the doctor is not. Sanjay Sonu, Shefali and Aaryan form the supporting cast.
Here are the credits:
Music by: Sanjiv Chaturvedi
Ajay Keshwani
Rakesh Trivedi
Harsh Raj Harsh
Lyrics by: Sanjiv Chaturvedi
Rakesh Trivedi
Ravi Kumar
Cinematography: Ravi Bhat
Editor: Shiva Bayappa
Costumes: Praveen, Rita
Background Score: Rajendra Shiv
Choreographer: Vicki Khan
Shooting Locations: Mumbai, Banaras
Media Relation: Ashwani Shukla, Altair Media
If anyone or anything deserves credit for the release of this film, it is destiny.
Rating: *
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Baby bumps and inflatable trousers at London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week began with an ending, or a goodbye, rather, to one of the most influential figures in British fashion, Vivienne Westwood.
4 dead after Cessna plane crash on Philippine volcano
All four people aboard a light aircraft that crashed in the Philippines at the weekend have been confirmed dead, authorities in the Southeast Asian country said Thursday, following a treacherous search mission atop a restive volcano.
Wednesday, 22 February 2023
North Korea a 'clear and present danger,' says South Korean Foreign Minister
North Korea is a "clear and present danger," the foreign minister of South Korea has told CNN in an exclusive interview.
Ten Palestinians killed during Israeli raid targeting militants in West Bank
At least 10 Palestinians, including two Islamic Jihad commanders, were killed Wednesday in a major Israeli military operation in the West Bank that also left more than 100 injured, Palestinian officials said.
Killer guru's temporary release from prison sparks anger in India. And it's not the first time
A convicted killer and rapist revered by millions as a religious guru has been granted temporary release from prison for the fourth time in 12 months, Indian officials confirmed Wednesday, angering activists who say it sets a dangerous precedent in a country grappling with violence against women.
South Korean court grants gay couple health benefits in landmark ruling
A South Korean court on Tuesday ruled in favor of a same-sex couple seeking equal health benefits, overturning a lower court's earlier decision in a ruling hailed by supporters and activists as the first recognition of the legal rights of such couples.
'This is a dream': Burna Boy, Afrobeats stars take center stage at the NBA All-Star game
The stars were out at Sunday's NBA All-Star game in Salt Lake City, Utah -- from basketball legends LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, to Nigerian musical titans Burna Boy, Tems, and Rema.
Tuesday, 21 February 2023
WADA appeals case of Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva
The protracted doping saga involving Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva entered another phase on Tuesday as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Nigerians head to the polls this weekend for crucial presidential election
Nigerians will head to the polls Saturday in a fiercely-contested presidential vote that analysts say is too close to call.
Venice canals run dry amid fears Italy faces another drought
Weeks of dry winter weather have raised concerns that Italy could face another drought after last summer's emergency, with the Alps having received less than half of their normal snowfall, according to scientists and environmental groups.
Plane crash wreckage spotted on high-risk Philippines volcano
Philippine authorities on Monday launched a search mission atop a restive volcano after spotting the suspected wreckage of a missing plane carrying two Australians along with a Filipino pilot and crew member.
Rescue mission under way in Papua New Guinea for hostages including Australian academic
Police in Papua New Guinea have launched a rescue mission after a group of foreign citizens and local guides were taken hostage by armed criminals in a remote region of the country, police said in a statement Monday.
Japan promises to 'lead the world' in fighting Russian aggression with $5.5 billion in Ukraine aid
Japan pledged $5.5 billion in humanitarian aid to Ukraine on Monday, nearly quadrupling the amount of money Tokyo has promised to Kyiv since Russia invaded its neighbor nearly a year ago.
As Biden visits Ukraine, China's top diplomat goes to Russia
As US President Joe Biden touched down in Ukraine to meet with his counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday, China's top diplomat was traveling in the opposite direction, on his way to Russia.
Monday, 20 February 2023
Microsoft is looking for ways to rein in Bing AI chatbot after troubling responses
Microsoft on Thursday said it's looking at ways to rein in its Bing AI chatbot after a number of users highlighted examples of concerning responses from it this week, including confrontational remarks and troubling fantasies.
Protests across Israel as Netanyahu's government introduces bill to weaken courts
Protesters blocked roads in cities across Israel during demonstrations Monday as the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu introduces a controversial judicial overhaul bill.
Body of soccer star Christian Atsu returns to Ghana from Turkey
The body of Ghana soccer star Christian Atsu arrived in Accra, Ghana on Sunday evening after it was flown from Turkey, Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration (MFA) said.
Kim Jong Un's sister makes 'shooting range' threat as North Korea tests more missiles
North Korea fired at least one unidentified ballistic missile into the waters off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula on Monday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Opinion: What Stalin's daughter taught me
North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un was back in the spotlight last week after appearing at two lavish military events in Pyongyang. In one photograph, he is seen with his generals reviewing a midnight parade of ballistic missiles. Beside him stands his roughly 9-year-old daughter.
Blinken says US has 'no doubt' China was conducting surveillance with balloon
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has made clear that the US has no doubt China was seeking to surveil the US via the balloon that was ultimately shot down off the coast of South Carolina earlier this month.
Sunday, 19 February 2023
This Indigenous tribe's totem pole was stolen and sold for $45. After waiting 110 years, they finally have it back
A totem pole removed from an Indigenous burial site more than a century ago and kept on display in a Canadian museum has been repatriated to the Nuxalk Nation.
Six charged after 18 people found dead in truck in Bulgaria, officials say
Bulgarian prosecutors have charged six people with human trafficking after 18 Afghans were found dead inside a truck dumped on a dirt road near the capital Sofia on Friday.
Main Raj Kapoor Ho Gaya, Review: A drunk, moping, slum-dweller, and his three muses
Main Raj Kapoor Ho Gaya, Review: A drunk, moping, slum-dweller, and his three muses
Most films have at least a semblance of reference to the title. Some, though, choose to get philosophical when picking a moniker for their screen vehicle. Then there those that have a prosaic sentence as the title, and neither prose nor poetry to justify it. Main Raj Kapoor Ho Gaya is one such. What the title means is “I have become Raj Kapoor.” Raj Kapoor, of course, was the cinematic genius who acted, directed and edited a host of memorable films, during the period 1949-89. Is Main Raj Kapoor Ho Gaya about reincarnation? Far from it. Is it about somebody whose body of work stands in comparison with Raj Kapoor’s? Banish the thought. It is about a drunk who calls himself Raj Kapoor, occasionally hums a few lines of songs from Raj Kapoor’s films, and has performed a marionette act in tandem with his slum neighbour-benefactor as a tribute to Raj Kapoor. Once or twice, others join in his humming. A few posters of Raj Kapoor’s movies are seen on the lead actor’s walls. End of reference to Raj Kapoor.
Set in a sprawling Mumbai slum, the film is about ‘Raj Kapoor’, who falls in love with fellow slum-dweller Suman. Suddenly, Suman dies in a freak accident. Raj cannot bear the shock. Once the owner of a reputable motor garage, he becomes an alcoholic. Pinto, a bar owner, gives him free alcohol every day, out of sympathy. His only two companions are a maid (played by Shravani Goswami) and his former side-kick at the garage, Raghu (unidentified). The maid owns two kholis (hutments), of which she has given one for Raj. She also takes care of Raj’s food and other basic expenses. Raj often dreams and hallucinates about Suman. He has a kind heart and often gets milk to feed stray puppies. And then, one incident changes his life forever, once again.
Raj and Raghu are sauntering back home when they see a woman running for her life, being chased by a car. Catching up with her, the occupants attack her and she gets hit on the forehead. Raj sees Suman in the girl. He and Raghu decide to save the girl and get into a fight with the assailants. They manage to chase the pursuers away. The woman is unconscious. When she recovers consciousness, she seems to have lost her memory. Raj and Raghu take her to the police station. However, the officer on duty turns out to be a lecher, and tries to take advantage of her. Luckily, Raj, Raghu and the maid arrive in time, and the girl is saved. The trio decide to take her to their kholi and keep her there till she regains her memory. During her stay there, both she and Raj develop soft corners for each other. It is then discovered that the girl has a blood clot in her brain.
This film is a Manav Sohal show, coming after P.K. Lele a Salesman (2018), which he also wrote, directed and acted in. There is a poster on a wall, of the P.K. film, if you are careful enough to notice. He has worked in TV before. There was the germ of an idea in this film, but instead of allowing it to germinate, Manav Sohal gets into multi-track mode. He begins with preaching that all Gods are one, but he does not profess to know the meaning of what he heard at a Gurdwara. Immediately afterwards, he proceeds to paraphrase it perfectly! The slum lingo angle is carried to far. Tropes abound. The police officer trying to take advantage of the girl at the station by locking the front door is hard to digest. Another trope is the women’s hostel warden trying to sell off the girl to a politician. The puppy is used once too often. And why do people give him milk when he asks for it, since he does not have any money? Raj seeing his dead beloved in almost any woman is yet another trope.
When Raj needs a place to move into, Pinto pulls out a key and says he has a flat that is lying vacant. Raj is shown to get involved with as many as three women. To give him credit, the Suman’s death and the fight with the girl-chasers are imaginatively captured. One can never be sure whether it was necessary because it was really raining while shooting, but umbrellas keep popping-up every few minutes. Of course, there is an iconic scene of Raj Kapoor and Nargis under an umbrella, too tempting not to duplicate, not enough justification though. I cannot recall any other customers at Pinto’s bar except Raj and Raghu. Likewise, the maid, who works in as many as four houses, is always available, whenever required.
Raghu’s girl-friend Babita, a bar-dancer, is taken by Raghu to meet his mother. She goes wearing a cleavage revealing dress. Would his mother accept her? She gets promptly thrown out. Then, incredulously, we have a scene where the mother is coughing uncontrollably, and Babita, again wearing a plunging neckline, is feeding her a cough syrup. The mother says that Babita has saved her life and agrees to the alliance immediately. Why is there no mention whatsoever of Raj and Suman’s families? And how and why and when did he become ‘Raj Kapoor’?
There are flashes of talent in the writing and direction of Manav Sohal, though they surface only rarely. An episode in a TV serial might have been more befitting for his prowess. In the film, this episodic structure appears contrived. Even the way he divides the episodes – by a tilting sky shot of the huge colony – is both predictable and unimaginative. It is obvious that he believes in improvising scenes while acting, perhaps in an effort to goad his co-stars on, or to act as a drama prompter. However, they go nowhere. Tall and presentable-looking Manav takes on the role of a drunk bumpkin, probably to prove his versatility. That is granted.
From the cast, I could only recognise a couple: Virendra Saxena and Anand Jog. Virendra looks the part of Pinto but cannot convince us with his diction and accent. Nevertheless, he has a meaty role, for a change. Anand Jog, who, like Mahavir Shah, has villain written all over him, plays the police officer up to no good. But leading the cast, besides our home-grown Raj Kapoor, are three ladies: Shravani Goswami, Kanchan Pagare and Smita Dongre. (Remember, Raj Kapoor had three heroines in Mera Naam Joker). All acquit themselves well. Shravani looks a little older, to be paired with Manav. Several artistes put in guest appearances: Brijendra Kala, Manish Goel, Raj Premi, Zahid Ali, Daya Shankar Pandey, Tarun Khanna, Gufi Paintal, Nishi Gandhawad and Chahat Pandey. Either they all had blink and miss roles, or I failed to recognise them. The actors playing Raghu and the doctor are competent.
Cinematography and editing are nothing to write home about.
In summation, Main Raj Kapoor Ho Gaya will not suffer one bit if the entire Raj Kapoor strand is edited out. Moreover, fans of the great showman Raj Kapoor will find nothing they can relate to, and will be downright disappointed. Any number of disclaimers, like the one in the beginning of the film, that this film is not about Raj Kapoor and his muse, Nargis, will not prepare audiences for what is in store. Good performances are not enough to save the film. Raj Kapoor would not have been pleased with this half-baked product.
Rating: * ½
Trailer: https://youtu.be/3qmYGwFVMRg
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Three weeks missing: Police have not yet found a trace of missing 45-year-old woman
One video shows a single blue glove, found in the field where missing British mother Nicola Bulley was last seen before she vanished over three weeks ago.
King Charles turns to 'Cats' composer Andrew Lloyd Webber for flagship coronation music
Britain's King Charles III has enlisted the help of acclaimed British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber to write the flagship anthem for his upcoming coronation.
Saturday, 18 February 2023
East Palestine residents worry rashes, headaches and other symptoms may be tied to chemicals from train crash
Some residents of East Palestine, Ohio, say they have developed rashes, sore throats, nausea and headaches after returning to their homes this week, and they're worried these new symptoms are related to chemicals released after a train derailment two weeks ago.
Uncontacted tribes and an Indian military base. Did a 'spy' balloon snoop on the Andaman and Nicobar islands?
When a strange white sphere appeared in the skies above the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in January 2022, it swiftly became a talking point in this sleepy Indian Ocean archipelago of 430,000 people.
16-hour Air New Zealand flight to nowhere caps a 'wild' trip for one frequent flyer
It's the stuff of nightmares. You're trying to get somewhere, you've prepped and planned and you're doing your best and yet you end up right back where you started.
Friday, 17 February 2023
At least two killed as militants storm Karachi police headquarters
At least two people were killed and two others injured Friday after militants stormed the police headquarters in Karachi, according to ambulance officials in Pakistan's capital.
Isolated Iran finds ally China reluctant to extend it a lifeline
Shortly before leaving for his first state visit to China on Tuesday, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi issued a thinly veiled criticism of his powerful ally, saying the two countries' relationship has not lived up to expectations.
California's heavy rains deliver hope of a lifeline for one devastated industry -- rice
The fierce storms and heavy rain that have pounded California in recent weeks could be the lifeline that one industry -- and the communities that rely on it for their own survival -- desperately needs.
Thursday, 16 February 2023
Amnesty accuses Peruvian authorities of 'marked racist bias' in protest crackdown
Amnesty International has accused Peruvian authorities of acting with "a marked racist bias" in its crackdown on protests that have roiled the country since December, saying "populations that have historically been discriminated against" are being targeted, according to a report released on Thursday.
World's oldest Hebrew Bible could fetch $50 million at auction
A Hebrew Bible more than 1,000 years old and described as "one of the most important and singular texts in human history" will go on show later this month, before going under the hammer.
Search of BBC offices by Indian government enters third day
Indian tax officials continued their search of the BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai for the third consecutive day, two sources with knowledge of the matter told CNN, weeks after the country banned a documentary from the British broadcaster that was critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged role in deadly riots more than 20 years ago.
Belgian goalkeeper dies aged 25 after reportedly collapsing following penalty save during match
Belgian goalkeeper Arne Espeel has died aged 25 after reportedly collapsing following a penalty save during a match on Saturday.
One of 12 boys rescued from Thai cave dies
Duangphet Phromthep, one of the 12 boys rescued from a flooded Thai cave after a weekslong operation that drew global attention in 2018, has died in the UK, British and Thai officials announced Wednesday.
Woman asks 'what day is it?' when pulled from the rubble 228 hours after earthquake
A confused woman asked her rescuers "What day is it?" when pulled alive from the rubble of last week's earthquake after 228 hours, Turkey's state-run news agency Anadolu reported Wednesday, as another woman aged 77 was also rescued from the debris.
Wednesday, 15 February 2023
Ukrainian soldiers in Poland get a crash course in Leopard 2 tanks
Vadym Khodak beams and leans forward. He's almost bouncing on his feet. "My soldiers like it a lot," he says with a nod to the line of Polish Leopard 2 version 4 tanks behind him. "This machine is good quality."
Russia delays launch of rescue spacecraft
Officials at Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, have opted to delay the launch of a spacecraft meant to replace one deemed not safe enough to transport astronauts after a second vehicle — a cargo ship — sprang a leak on Saturday, according to NASA.
Parents met with track star who shot daughter. They didn't hear what they wanted.
Reeva Steenkamp's parents say they are "still grieving" for their daughter, 10 years after she was shot and killed by her boyfriend, former South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius.
Russian frigate docks in South Africa ahead of joint naval drills with China and Russia
Russia's Admiral Gorshkov frigate, armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles has docked in Cape Town, South Africa ahead of joint military drills with South Africa, Russia and China, Cape town's Russian Consulate said on Monday.
Tuesday, 14 February 2023
South Africa bus crash kills 20, dozens taken to hospital
A head-on collision between a bus and a cash-in-transit van left 20 people dead on Monday on a major road in South Africa's northern Limpopo province, with dozens taken to hospital, transport officials and emergency medical company said.
Indian authorities raid BBC offices after broadcast of Modi documentary
Indian tax authorities raided the BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai on Tuesday, weeks after the country banned a documentary from the British broadcaster that was critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged role in deadly riots more than 20 years ago.
'Butts: A Backstory' explores the cultural history of the backside
In the introduction to her book "Butts: A Backstory," journalist Heather Radke recalls a moment when, at 10 years old, she and a friend were cat-called by two teenage boys while out riding their bikes.
Palestinian man killed and 13 injured in Israeli raid in West Bank, say Palestinian officials
A Palestinian man was killed and 13 were injured in an Israeli raid in Nablus early Monday, Palestinian health officials said, in what Israeli authorities said was an operation to arrest suspects in the fatal shooting of an Israeli soldier last year.
Monday, 13 February 2023
US restricts 6 Chinese companies tied to airships and balloons
The US Commerce Department is restricting six Chinese companies tied to the Chinese army's aerospace programs from obtaining US technology without government authorization.
Thousands of children abused by members of Portugal's Catholic Church over 70 years, report finds
At least 4,815 children were sexually abused by members of the Portuguese Catholic Church -- mostly priests -- over the past 70 years, a report by the commission investigating the issue said on Monday, adding the findings are the tip of the iceberg.
Premier League club Brentford 'disgusted' by 'barrage of abusive racist messages' received by star player
English Premier League side Brentford is "disgusted and saddened" by "abusive racist messages" received by star player Ivan Toney following Saturday's match against London rival Arsenal, according to a statement released by the club.
„When the Woodlark Sings“ – Official Selection on the 4theatre Film Festival
Very nice news! Official Selection in the category BEST DIRECTOR at the 4THEATRE SELECTION Film Festival in the USA. The film festival selects the best films among thousands of projects from all over the world. We are honored and very happy to be selected!
☞ Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/oXuEJiN3rD0
☞ Watch the music-clip: https://youtu.be/sDsy_MdP4gE
☞ More information: https://heidelerche-film.cittador.com/
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US citizen detained in Jordan launches hunger strike
A US citizen detained in Jordan is calling on the US government to demand his return to the United States and launching a hunger strike to protest his imprisonment.
'This is not over': Canadian women's national soccer team calls off strike, says they are being 'forced back to work'
The Canadian women's national soccer team has called off its strike and resumed training after the sport's governing body Canada Soccer threatened legal action, players said on February 11.
Sunday, 12 February 2023
Palestinian man, 27, shot and killed by Israeli settler in the West Bank, Palestinian officials say
A Palestinian man was shot and killed by an Israeli settler in the West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said, naming him as Mithqal Suleiman Abdel Halim Rayan, 27.
'It hurts, I'm not going to lie': Canadian women's national soccer team is on strike, captain says
The Canadian women's national soccer team is on strike following cuts to its program and pay equity concerns, captain Christine Sinclair told Canada's The Sports Network (TSN).
Flights canceled as New Zealand's largest city braces for Cyclone Gabrielle
Residents of New Zealand's biggest city were urged on Sunday to prepare for the impact of a storm that buffeted Australia's Norfolk Island overnight.
Hackers interrupt Iran president's TV speech on anniversary of revolution
The Islamic Republic marked the 44th anniversary of the Iranian revolution on Saturday with state-organized rallies, as anti-government hackers briefly interrupted a televised speech by President Ebrahim Raisi.
A 10-year effort to officially end the Iraq War
Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, after trying for 10 years, is on the cusp of getting Congress to repeal the authorizations that led the US into war against Iraq in the early '90s and again in the early '00s.
See the haunting photos of 'ghost ships,' which have lain in wait for centuries in the Baltic Sea
Plunging into the icy waters surrounding Scandinavia, divers Jonas Dahm and Carl Douglas hunt for vessels long lost to the ocean, what they call the "ghost ships'' of the Baltic Sea.
Saturday, 11 February 2023
Several rescue operations suspended in Syria and Turkey as chances of survival diminish
Security risks put a handful of search and rescue operations on hold on Saturday, as the death toll of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey surpassed 25,000.
Police arrest three after protest at asylum seeker hotel in England
Police in the northern England town of Knowsley, Merseyside, arrested three people on Friday after violence broke out during a protest outside a hotel used to house asylum seekers.
SpaceX admits blocking Ukraine from using satellite technology
The president of SpaceX revealed the company has taken active steps to prevent Ukrainian forces from using the critical Starlink satellite technology with Ukrainian drones that are a key component of their fight against Russia.
Russia to cut daily oil output by 500,000 barrels as sanctions bite
Russia will cut crude oil production by half a million barrels per day starting in March, a little over two months after the world's major economies imposed a price cap on the country's seaborne exports.
Friday, 10 February 2023
Rent for a Manhattan apartment remains mind-bogglingly high
Even as rents are cooling in some parts of the country, it has never cost more to rent a Manhattan apartment during the month of January as it did last month.
Salman Rushdie's magical new novel 'Victory City' contains 'the wisdom of a lifetime'
The story of Pampa Kampana, poet, prophet and mother of the empire of Bisnaga, begins with fire.
Egypt opens 4,000-year-old tomb to the public
Egypt has restored, documented and opened to tourists the Middle Kingdom tomb of Meru, the oldest site accessible to the public on Luxor's West Bank, home to some of its most spectacular Pharaonic monuments including the Valley of the Kings.
Russia may have lost up to half of its operational tank fleet in Ukraine, monitoring group says
Russia has potentially lost up to half of all its operational tank fleet since the start of the Ukraine war, according to information collected by a monitoring group, as its military struggles to meet the goals of Vladimir Putin's invasion.
Nicaragua releases over 200 political prisoners and sends them to the US
The Nicaraguan government released more than 200 political prisoners, many of whom arrived in the United States on Thursday, according to officials, following years of repression by the country's President Daniel Ortega.
Flowers, teddy bears and tears as Canada mourns day care deaths in bus crash
Hundreds of Quebecers wept openly Thursday as they visited a makeshift memorial stacked with teddy bears, flowers and notes of condolence after the shocking deaths of two children in a day care near Montreal.
Nigerian tech entrepreneur has Sheffield United in his sights
Nigerian tech entrepreneur Dozy Mmobuosi has "made a deposit" to buy Sheffield United, in a takeover that would make him the only Black majority owner in England's top two professional leagues.
Thursday, 9 February 2023
More US firms in Taiwan say they're seeing 'significant disruption' due to rising tension with China
The number of companies in Taiwan saying they're experiencing business disruptions due to rising tensions between Taipei and Beijing has almost doubled, according to the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan.
Planning a Europe trip? Better book now
When it comes to planning a European vacation, travel industry experts have traditionally advised tourists hoping to save money and avoid crowds to visit popular destinations like Italy, France, and Spain in off-season windows, like late winter or early spring.
This photo of male intimacy in 1980s India was more subversive than it seems
To passersby, the sight of two men embracing besides New Delhi's India Gate in 1986 might have seemed unremarkable. In a city where public displays of platonic male affection are relatively commonplace, it was photographer Sunil Gupta who attracted more attention at the time.
This fan has shaped anti-discrimination policy in Australian cricket after alleging racial abuse at a match
Two years after alleging he was racially abused at a cricket match, an Indian fan has had a hand in shaping how the sport tackles discrimination in Australia.
2 children died, 6 others injured after bus crashes into daycare near Montreal
Authorities in Quebec said two children have died and six others were taken to area hospitals with injuries after a city bus drove into a daycare center in a Montreal suburb Wednesday morning.
Wednesday, 8 February 2023
Hong Kong is set to give away 500,000 free airline tickets to lure back tourists
Hong Kong's government has announced plans to give away 500,000 free airline tickets as part of efforts to revive its tourism industry and attract visitors back to the city.
Chinese savers stashed away $2.6 trillion last year but property crash will cool 'revenge spending'
Even for a famously frugal nation, Chinese people saved a lot last year. Stuck at home due to Covid restrictions, they socked away a record $2.6 trillion.
Global ransomware campaign has US and European officials on alert
A new global ransomware campaign has hit at least 3,800 victims, including hundreds in the US, according to crowdsourced data reviewed by CNN, prompting warnings from European and US cybersecurity officials.
Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu found alive in Turkey earthquake rubble
International football player Christian Atsu has been found alive and is in "stable condition" at a local hospital following Monday's earthquake in southern Turkey, the Ghana Football Association and Atsu's agent said on Tuesday.
Al Hilal shock Flamengo with 3-2 win in Club World Cup semifinal
Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal stunned South American champions Flamengo to reach the Club World Cup final with a 3-2 victory on Tuesday thanks to two penalties from Salem Al Dawsari and a close-range strike from Luciano Vietto.
Earthquake victims in Syria face 'a crisis in a crisis' after brutal civil war
For many of the Syrian victims of the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday, this is just the latest in a decade-long series of tragedies.
Tuesday, 7 February 2023
These rail cars were left to rot in the jungle. They've since been dramatically transformed
Railways have long been a source of fascination for travelers, allowing us to experience journeys at a slower pace and revisit a time when packed airplanes and crowded airports weren't the norm.
Britain's NHS was once idolized. Now its worst-ever crisis is fueling a boom in private health care
Tens of thousands of nurses and nearly 12,000 ambulance workers went on strike Monday over pay and working conditions in the biggest walkout in the 75-year history of Britain's National Health Service (NHS).
Monday, 6 February 2023
Russian diesel prices fall in Europe despite latest ban
Europe's ban on Russia's diesel arrived painlessly on Sunday.
University apologizes for 'Russia' chant at Ukrainian player during basketball game
Colorado State University has apologized to Utah State's Ukrainian junior guard after spectators chanted 'Russia" toward him at a men's basketball game in Fort Collins, Colorado Saturday night.
Did investors learn nothing from last year's market meltdown?
Meme stock mania was supposed to be over, right? Guess what: It's not.
Ford Mustang Mach-E has a mile of wires it doesn't need. That's a big deal
Ford showed this week that it's not going to be as easy for traditional automakers to catch Tesla in the race to build the better electric vehicle, despite what Tesla's doubters think.
Landmark national security trial of Hong Kong democracy activists begins. Here's what you need to know
Some were seasoned politicians and veteran protest leaders. Others were academics, unionists and health care workers. They hailed from different generations and held a range of political views, but were brought together by what they say was a shared commitment to Hong Kong's democratic future.
Sunday, 5 February 2023
Iran pardons or commutes sentence of 'large' number of prisoners, state media reports
Iran will pardon or commute the sentences of a large number of prisoners as part of an annual amnesty, state media reported Sunday, although it is unclear how this will apply to people arrested in the recent wave of protests.
Chile wildfires leave at least 22 people dead, officials say
At least 22 people have died in connection widespread forest fires in south-central Chile, according to government officials.
Saturday, 4 February 2023
Pope Francis pleads for peace as he meets South Sudanese people displaced by war
Pope Francis called for peace on Saturday as he met a group of several hundred South Sudanese people internally displaced by war at an event in the country's capital Juba.
She used hidden cameras to help students cheat exams. Now she's wanted by Interpol
Think "international manhunt" and the image that likely springs to mind is that of a hardened criminal like a murderer, bank robber or billion-dollar fraudster -- not the middle-aged boss of a high school tuition center.
There's a sense that another turning point is approaching in Russia's war in Ukraine
Russia's mass mobilization, looming offensive and missile-borne terror against civilians is triggering fresh calls for even greater Western lethal aid to Ukraine, days after leaders signed off on their latest package that included the first tanks.
Rishi Sunak has had a torrid first 100 days as Britain's leader. But the Conservatives might not be doomed
Earlier this week, Rishi Sunak celebrated his first 100 days as prime minister of the United Kingdom.
US, EU, G7 and Australia announce new price cap on Russian petroleum products
The US and allies are trying to further limit Russia's ability to make money and finance its war efforts with new price limits on products like gasoline and fuel oil, a senior Treasury official announced Friday -- adding to sanctions on Russian energy sales in response to the country's invasion of Ukraine.
South Africa tourism in talks to sponsor Tottenham Hotspur amid energy crisis
The South African government's tourism board has conditionally approved plans to sponsor English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur amid an energy crisis, South African Tourism (SAT) announced in a statement on Thursday.
Friday, 3 February 2023
Hong Kong and Macao will fully reopen borders with mainland China
China will fully reopen borders with its special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao next week, in what is expected to be a major boost for the economies of the two cities.
The Lantern Festival is the Lunar New Year's grand finale
As this year's Lunar New Year celebrations draw to a close, it's time to get ready for the grand finale, a.k.a. the Lantern Festival.
South Korea court rejects temple's claim to statue it says pirates pillaged
A South Korean court on Wednesday rejected a Buddhist temple's claim to a statue that it said Japanese pirates looted in the 14th century, clearing the way for Japan to press for its return.
Far from Bakhmut, an intense fight in trenches and minefields
In the town of Krasnohorivka, grim Soviet-era apartment buildings stand nearly but not quite empty, with only a few residents remaining. Blocks on the southern edges of town are burned shells, windows shattered and awnings dangling in the winter breeze. Houses are largely shuttered; their tenants long gone. The central square is abandoned and eerie.
Blinken under pressure to push China on role in lethal fentanyl trade when he visits Beijing
Members of Congress are urging Secretary of State Antony Blinken to pressure China to do more to curb the flow of fentanyl and synthetic opioids into the United States on his visit to the country which is expected to take place in the next few days.
Crown Prosecution Service drops attempted rape charges against Mason Greenwood
Charges of attempted rape and assault against Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood were dropped on Thursday due to the withdrawal of key witnesses, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced. A charge of controlling and coercive behavior was also dropped, according to the CPS.
Thursday, 2 February 2023
Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old tavern in Iraq
Eating out seems to have been as popular 5,000 years ago as it is today, with archaeologists in Iraq uncovering an ancient tavern dating back to 2,700 BCE.
Pakistan mosque bomber was disguised as a policeman
The suicide bomber who targeted a mosque inside a police compound in Peshawar, killing more than 80 people, was a member of the Pakistani Taliban disguised as a policeman, a senior official said Thursday.
US to get expanded military base access in the Philippines
The US military will gain access to four more bases in the Philippines under an agreement announced as US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visited Manila on Wednesday.
US imposes visa restrictions on Taliban members involved in repression of women and girls
The United States is imposing new visa restrictions on certain current and former Taliban members, non-state security group members and others who are believed to be involved in repressing the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Wednesday.
Pope Francis attracts more than one million worshippers to DRC Mass
More than one million people attended Pope Francis' Mass in Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Wednesday, the Vatican Press Office said, citing figures estimated by local authorities.
Wednesday, 1 February 2023
'It's all empty promises': Palestinians feel betrayed by US, warn there's only so much they can bear
Abu A'asem brews pot after pot of his specialty Arabic coffee, despite the pouring rain. His corner stand at the heart of Ramallah is always busy, no matter the weather, but his future as a Palestinian is very much as gloomy as the skies above.
Greece's secret green 'virgin island'
The Greek island of Samothrace is a vision in green. The craggy rocks of Mount Saos, the island's highest mountain at 5,285 feet (1,611 meters), give way to gentle slopes covered in oddly shaped plane trees, oak woodlands and majestic cedars.
US and India to boost defense and technology cooperation as China threat grows
The United States and India are taking steps to strengthen their defense partnership, officials said Tuesday, the latest sign of cooperation between the two countries in the face of an increasingly assertive China.
Britain hit by biggest day of strikes in a decade as pay disputes escalate
As many as half a million workers will strike across Britain on Wednesday, closing schools, canceling university lectures and bringing most of the rail network to a standstill in what unions say will be the biggest single day of walkouts in more than a decade.
Chinese cities are struggling to pay their bills as 'hidden debts' soar
Three years of strict pandemic controls in China and a real estate crash have drained local government coffers, leaving authorities across the country struggling with mountains of debt. The problem has gotten so extreme that some cities are now unable to provide basic services, and the risk of default is rising.
US says Russia is violating key nuclear arms control agreement
Russia is violating a key nuclear arms control agreement with the United States and continuing to refuse to allow inspections of its nuclear facilities, a State Department spokesperson said Tuesday.
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Metium (flute) of Zeme tribe
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Admission open for the academic year 2019-2020 at Rani Gaidinliu Memorial Junior College at Boro-Haflong, Dima Hasao, Assam. Free ... -
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