Indian actor Allu Arjun is arrested due to a tragic incident that took place during one of the screenings of Pushpa 2: The Rule. It happened when a stampede occurred at the Hyderabad theatre, in which a woman lost her life and her son was left critically injured.
What Happened?
The tragic incident happened when Allu Arjun made an unscheduled visit to the Sandhya Theatre. This caused a stampede as fans ran to catch a glimpse of the actor. Media reported that neither the management of the theatre nor Arjun’s team had informed the local authorities about his visit.
Watch here:
Arjun’s sudden entry resulted in a stampede in which dozens of people got injured. Later on, police explained that it was also partly due to the actor’s security team trying to restrain the crowd, making matters worse.
The Arrest and Charges
Following the stampede, police filed charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and voluntarily causing harm against Allu Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management. Local authorities arrived at the actor’s home to arrest him. This shocking moment was captured in viral videos shared on social media.
After the accident, Arjun mourned the loss of the fan. On December 6, he posted on social media to extend his condolences to the family. He also promised to help the family of the deceased woman and aid her critically injured son.
Box Office Success
Despite the tragic story, Pushpa 2 has received huge commercial success. With an action-packed drama that revolves around Arjun as a smuggler of sandalwood, it has grossed over $130 million. The first film in this franchise has been a humongous hit and entered the list of top-grossing films in 2021 in India.
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Character.AI, a Silicon Valley AI startup, is facing lawsuits alleging its chatbots contributed to youth suicides and self-harm. One Florida lawsuit claims the platform bears responsibility for the death of 14-year-old Sewell Setzer III, who formed an intimate relationship with a chatbot modelled after the “Game of Thrones” character Daenerys Targaryen. According to the complaint, the chatbot responded with “Please do, my sweet king” when he expressed suicidal thoughts, shortly before taking his life.
In response, Character.AI has rolled out new safety features, including stricter content filters for users under 18, automatic flagging of suicide-related content and mandatory break notifications. The company announced plans to introduce parental controls in early 2025 and will now display disclaimers for bots labeled as therapists or doctors, warning users they are not substitutes for professional advice. A company spokesperson emphasized, “Our goal is to provide a space that is both engaging and safe for our community.” Both lawsuits name the company’s founders, Noam Shazeer and Daniel De Freitas Adiwarsana, as well as Google, an investor in Character.AI. However, Google has stated it has no operational ties to the platform.
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Meta has launched Video Seal, a tool designed to address the rising issue of AI-generated deepfakes by embedding imperceptible watermarks into videos. This tool, announced in open-source format, aims to provide a robust solution for identifying AI-generated content while protecting originality. Pierre Fernandez, an AI research scientist at Meta, stated, “We developed Video Seal to provide a more effective video watermarking solution, particularly for detecting AI-generated videos and protecting originality.” The watermarking method is resilient to common edits like blurring, cropping and compression algorithms.
Meta plans to encourage its wider adoption by launching the Meta Omni Seal Bench, a public leaderboard to compare the performance of watermarking tools. The company will also host a workshop on watermarking at the upcoming ICLR AI conference. Fernandez emphasized the need for collaboration in the industry, saying, “We hope that more and more AI researchers and developers will integrate some form of watermarking into their work. We want to collaborate with the industry and the academic community to progress faster in the field.” Despite challenges, including proprietary solutions in use, Video Seal represents a significant step in combatting AI-driven misinformation.
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December in Pakistan? Oh, you mean Decemberistan; that magical time when weddings and family gatherings feel like an Olympic sport. It’s a month packed with so many events that it almost seems like the calendar itself is getting exhausted. Weddings, Walimas, shopping sprees, family members flying in from every corner of the globe… and that’s just the start. With so much going on, it’s easy to forget the most important event of all; Taking care of you.
No worries though, we’re in this together. Here’s your ultimate guide to surviving (and thriving) through Decemberistan while staying mentally and physically on top of your game.
1. Put “Me Time” on Your To-Do List
Alright, we get it, you’re busy. There’s an event every other day, and your phone’s blowing up with the cousin group chats. But here’s the deal: if you don’t schedule some “me time,” you’re going to burn out faster than you can say “shaadi season.” Whether it’s a cosy nap or an uninterrupted Netflix binge, make sure to take out small moments just for yourself.
The Ultimate Guide to Self-Care During the Chaotic Decemberistan. Source; Flow Magazine
2. Hydrate Like Your Skin Depends On It
Between the biryani, the mithai, and the endless chai, it’s easy to forget that water exists. Because who wants water over the delicious, pink Kashmiri Chai? But here’s the thing: hydration is key, not just for staying awake at 2 AM after that wedding party moves from the wedding hall to someone’s house, but also for keeping your skin glowing and your mood stable.
The Ultimate Guide to Self-Care During the Chaotic Decemberistan. Source; Good Water Company
3. Learn the Art of Saying “No”
Do you know what to do if you’re feeling stressed? You don’t have to be the life of every party or go to every wedding. It’s scandalous, I know! Saying “no” doesn’t mean that you are a horrible cousin. Really, no one will be upset with you for missing an event to refuel. You’ll have more fun at the next one if you’re not running on makeup-setting spray fumes.
Exercise isn’t just for January when everyone’s making New Year’s resolutions. During Decemberistan, you need those endorphins to keep your energy levels up. But don’t stress about hitting the gym. Just have fun with it! Dance at the mehndi, or take a walk around the neighbourhood.
5. Sleep Like You’re on Vacation (Because You Are)
We all know sleep is a distant memory in Decemberistan, but here’s the thing: YOU NEED IT. Skipping sleep might make you look like a rockstar for a few days, but trust me, the exhaustion will hit you like a ton of bricks. Prioritise sleep as much as you can. Your skin and your sanity will thank you.
6. Pamper Yourself, You Deserve It
When you’ve been running from one event to another, take some time out to give your body some TLC. A face mask, a quick hair oil massage, or even a mani-pedi will have you feeling like a new person.
The Ultimate Guide to Self-Care During the Chaotic Decemberistan. Source; 100% Pure
Even though Decemberistan is usually packed with shaadi celebrations, family get-togethers, and other activities, you don’t have to let the chaos consume you. You can enjoy the season without burning out if you make self-care a priority. So, take a deep breath, schedule some “me time,” and keep in mind that caring for yourself is a must!
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Versatile actor and dynamic performer, Adeel Hussain has once again captured the hearts of viewers with his stellar role in the drama Ghair. After a long hiatus, Hussain’s return to television has reignited the same energy and charm he was once celebrated for. His portrayal in Ghair has been widely praised, showing his unmatched talent.
Adeel Hussain recently appeared on the talk show Nadaan Maizban with Danish Nawaz, Yasir Nawaz, and Nida Yasir, where he spoke candidly about his struggles and journey into the entertainment industry.
Watch here:
Reflecting on his early days, he shared how he boldly dedicated five years to proving himself in the field. “I always learn from everyone,” he remarked. He further added that while he refrains from naming specific actors, he has drawn inspiration from a diverse range of talents throughout his career.
In a truly heartfelt segment of the conversation, Hussain opened up regarding his personal life and, above all else, told about how challenging it was to lose his father at the age of six. According to him, such loss does make any person, from our culture or beyond it, a little vulnerable. “You start looking for guidance from your friends,” he continued.
He always made decisions regarding education or life in general by seeking the advice of his friends. While cultural groundings were provided by his family, his closest allies were always his friends.
This is a journey that took more than ten years to accomplish, starting when Hussain was 16. The story of his determination and growth in his search for strength in adversity shapes him into the fantastic artist he is today.
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When the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, it brought an unsettling companion: loneliness. Richard Weissbourd, a Harvard psychologist, noticed its presence everywhere. He noticed it in empty campuses, quiet streets, and even the disconnected faces on Zoom calls. Loneliness wasn’t new, but it felt more pervasive than ever. Studies from years before the pandemic already showed alarming trends: in 2018, 46% of Americans reported feeling lonely, and by 2019, that number had risen to 52%. The pandemic only worsened the issue, making many people confront feelings of isolation like never before.
Loneliness can be a complex emotion. Unlike anxiety or sadness, it’s not just about being alone. This emotion refers to the gap between the relationships we want and the ones we actually have. It has been described as the discrepancy between one’s desired and achieved social relations. Someone can feel lonely in a crowded room just as much as someone living in solitude. To understand this better, Weissbourd launched a study with 66 questions designed to dig deep into people’s experiences of loneliness. The findings were startling. 36% of respondents admitted to feeling chronic loneliness, and another 37% reported occasional feelings of it. A significant portion of these individuals said they reached out to others more often than others reached out to them, and many felt that no one truly cared about them outside their immediate families.
Unfortunately, the younger generations have faced this crisis the most. The pandemic disrupted their social lives completely and left many disconnected from the world. Even when the restrictions eased, the lingering effects of isolation remained. Strikingly, by 2022, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy officially declared loneliness a public health crisis. Comparing its impact to conditions like diabetes and obesity.
The feeling of Loneliness.
Other countries also recognized the severity of the issue. Britain and Japan tackled the problem by appointing “ministers of loneliness” to deal with the crisis. They launched initiatives like encouraging hobbies and having mail carriers check on elderly residents. Meanwhile, loneliness became a hot topic in self-help books, podcasts, and start-ups, with people searching for practical ways to reconnect.
However, the solutions to this are not as simple as making a phone call or sending a text. Experts have argued that loneliness stems from much deeper issues. These can range from alienation, distrust, and a breakdown of the social systems that once united communities. Feeling lonely is not just about missing people, it’s about feeling disconnected even in an era where everyone has a mobile phone on them 24/7. In fact, many blame technology as the sole reason for growing loneliness and isolation.
Having constant access to phones stops many from interacting with others in real life. Any moment of leisure is spent on the phone, staring at the screen for hours, scrolling aimlessly, rather than actually going out, or catching up with friends. No wonder, the rate of depression and loneliness in young adults is skyrocketing,
Moving Toward Connection
Loneliness isn’t an easy problem to solve, but recognizing its complexity is a good start. Addressing it means more than just sharing how you feel with friends or family. It requires you to build trust and strengthen the connections that bring communities together. More importantly, it needs us to look past our phones, toward the real world. On a personal scale, reaching out to someone or participating in local events can help. Regardless, larger efforts are needed to tackle the root causes of disconnection.
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BankIslami, our goal is to provide services for everyone to innovate with exceptional services and cater to their essential banking needs.
Karachi, December 13, 2024: BankIslami recently won the “2024 Euro Clearing Quality Recognition Award” from J.P.Morgan for achieving an impressive MT202 STP Rate of 99.37%.
Mr. Amin Khowaja, CEO of J.P. Morgan Pakistan, presented the award to BankIslami’s President & CEO, Mr. Rizwan Ata, along with Deputy CEO Mr. Imran H. Shaikh and other prominent individuals of BankIslami. This award showcases the achievements of the bank while being fully Shariah compliant and aligning with the essential role it plays in financial institutions for its customers.
Mr. Rizwan Ata, President & CEO, said, “Obtaining recognition from a well-known financial sector entity like J.P. Morgan represents the efforts of every individual working as a BankIslami member and highly portrays the efforts we bring in as a team. We are focused on prioritizing new standards in the industry and providing great value and services to our stakeholders.”
Mr. Imran H. Shaikh at the event stated: “This achievement highlights how the bank keeps growing and enhancing its services while generating new ideas with seamless services, making sure to accommodate our customers’ evolving necessities.”
At BankIslami, our goal is to provide services for everyone to innovate with exceptional services and cater to their essential banking needs, making every individual feel equally valued by aligning with our tagline: Saving Humanity from Riba.
An increase of 81 Paisa per litre in petrol prices and a decrease of Rs3.94 per litre in diesel prices have been proposed for the upcoming fortnight starting December 16, 2024. Petrol prices are expected to rise to Rs252.92 per litre, while diesel prices are projected to drop to Rs254.53 per litre. These adjustments are based on price trends observed during the first 12 days of the current fortnight, They are influenced by international market volatility following a regime change in Syria. Officials believe that if stability returns to Syria soon, further reductions in petroleum prices could be possible.
In the earlier revision starting December 1, petrol prices had risen by Rs3.72 per litre, making the new price Rs252.10 per litre. Diesel prices have also increased by Rs3.29 per litre, reaching Rs258.43. Moreover, kerosene became cheaper by 62 Paisa per litre, while light diesel saw a drop of 48 Paisa per litre.
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Time Magazine has named U.S. President-elect Donald Trump its Person of the Year for 2024, marking the second time Trump has received the title.
A Stunning Political Comeback
When Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 elections, it was a historic event. The former president’s year was filled with dramatic events, including his survival of two assassination attempts and his conviction on allegations of business fraud. Trump is now set to return to the White House despite these obstacles.
Why Trump Was Chosen
Sam Jacobs, Time Magazine’s editor-in-chief, explained the decision in the magazine’s announcement. He stated that Trump was nominated “for marshalling a comeback of historic proportions, for driving a once-in-a-generation political realignment, and for reshaping the American presidency.” His impact on America’s role in the world also played a significant role in his selection, he added.
The Person of the Year award from Time Magazine isn’t only for acknowledging accomplishments. It honours those who have impacted the world most, positively or negatively. Trump’s status as a controversial but pivotal character in American and international politics is highlighted by this award.
Trump is getting ready to run for president again as the year draws to a close. The next phase of his political career will undoubtedly be one of the most closely monitored in history.
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Planning the perfect wedding is no easy task. It can take months and in the end, there will still be things you’re not content with. But the venue is not something to compromise on. Planning a wedding is one of life’s most exciting yet overwhelming moments; the right venue can make all the difference. Karachi is a city rich in culture and style. Here, wedding venues go beyond just space. They set the tone for the entire event. It does not matter whether you dream of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering because Karachi offers majestic locations. Here are the top ten perfect places to confess “I Do!”
One of the most popular wedding spots, PC Hotel, is known for its grandeur. It is one of Karachi’s most iconic wedding venues. Their elegant ballrooms, opulent décor, and unmatched service create the perfect ambience. Moreover, they offer customizable packages and tastiest catering options. Picking PC Hotel will make your wedding feel like a fairytale.
Pearl Continental Weddings
2. Marriott Karachi
Marriott Karachi is one of the very few places that can blend luxury and sophistication to create unforgettable events. They have spacious banquet halls, complemented by incredible dining, making it a top choice for bigger weddings. Plus, their dedicated team ensures every detail, from décor to service, is flawless.
Karachi Marriott Hotel
3. Mövenpick Hotel Karachi
Mövenpick is the perfect mix of elegance and convenience. It has stunning event spaces and if you pick the right vendors, this place can be ideal for either traditional or contemporary weddings. Their catering and décor options are exceptional. Your guests will love the central location and the amenities that come with it!
Mövenpick Karachi
4. Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Karachi Airport
If you want your function to be serene yet stylish, Ramada Plaza has beautifully landscaped gardens and super chic indoor spaces. The venue offers versatile settings that cater to all types of ceremonies. Their hospitality which ensures a stress-free experience is an added bonus. If you have too much to handle already, Ramadan Plaza will surely take some load off your head.
Ramada Plaza Karachi
5. Beach Luxury Hotel
True to its name, Beach Luxury offers a perfect mix of charming coastal beauty and urban elegance. It has scenic waterfront views and lush lawns, perfect for daytime events. For those looking for a picturesque backdrop for their outdoor weddings, this is the dream venue. Let Beach Luxury Hotel make your big day truly unforgettable.
Beach Luxury Hotel
6. The Clifton Marquee
For couples who dream of a seaside celebration, The Clifton Marquee is a top choice. The Clifton Marquee is an elegant venue that offers stunning views of the ocean. The ocean breeze sets a magical tone for your big day. They offer spacious halls, modern facilities, and a professional team dedicated to perfecting every detail of your special day. The Clifton Marquee ensures your wedding will be unforgettable.
Courtyard Venues combines royal charm with modern sophistication, creating a truly majestic setting for weddings. Its opulent ballrooms and beautifully landscaped gardens offer a perfect blend of traditional elegance and contemporary style. This venue is ideal for couples seeking a fairytale ambience for their special day.
Nestled on the outskirts of Karachi, The Garden Oasis is an enchanting garden setting for outdoor weddings. This venue is a hidden gem that balances affordability with exceptional quality. They have flexible packages that cater to various budgets. Garden Oasis is an excellent choice for couples looking to celebrate in style without overspending.
The Garden Oasis Banquet
9. The Skyline Banquet Hall
Located in Karachi’s busy city centre, The Skyline Banquet Hall is known for its affordability and top-notch service. This venue provides a variety of tastefully decorated event spaces, all equipped with basic essential amenities. They have budget-friendly catering options, and your guests can enjoy a delicious meal without straining your wallet.
Skyline Banquet Hall
10. Ballroom 19
This venue stands out as an elegant yet budget-conscious wedding venue. Ballroom 19 has spacious halls, adorned with dazzling chandeliers, and impeccable decor. Leave it to them to create a regal atmosphere for your big day. Their affordable wedding packages include catering, decorations, and other essential services that ensure a seamless and memorable celebration.
Ballroom 19
Though there are 100 more things to fret over, picking an ideal location is a simple solution for at least half. Choosing the right vendor, whose team understands your vision and executes it flawlessly, ensures you get to enjoy a smooth function. Good food and a scenic backdrop can make all your troubles go away!
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The countdown to Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 has officially begun! Mark your calendars because this cricket extravaganza is set to kick off on April 8 and run until May 19. With a player draft scheduled for January 11, the excitement is already brewing. But behind the scenes, some critical decisions are being made to shape the future of the league.
PSL’s new CEO, Salman Naseer, is wasting no time making his presence felt. He’s hit the ground running, hosting online meetings to get everyone on the same page. His proactive approach signals a renewed focus on smooth planning and execution for this milestone season.
One of the PCB’s bold strategies for PSL 10 is to invite unsold Indian Premier League (IPL) players. It’s a smart move aimed at bringing more international star power to the league.
However, there’s a hiccup: PSL’s pay structure caps player salaries at $200,000. Compared to other leagues, this limit might not be enough to entice top-tier talent like David Warner, Steve Smith, or Kane Williamson.
The Draft vs. Direct Negotiations Debate
Traditionally, the PSL relies on a player draft system to maintain fairness among teams. But now, the PCB is considering allowing franchises to negotiate directly with players’ agents. While this could attract big names, it’s a double-edged sword.
Imagine one team offering a player $400,000 and another bidding $500,000. Naturally, the player will go for the higher offer, leaving others disgruntled. Such a system could also create dissatisfaction among local stars and those drafted under the $200,000 cap. Some franchises insist that sticking to the draft ensures fairness for all.
The PCB is optimistic about signing international heavyweights like Warner, Williamson, Jonny Bairstow, and Steve Smith. Shoaib Khalid, PCB’s Manager of Player Acquisition, is back on board part-time and has already reached out to several top players. His efforts are expected to bring clarity on whether these stars will grace PSL 10.
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Pakistani dramas have always been known to captivate audiences with gripping storylines, powerful characters, and insane twists. These shows often glue fans to their screens with heartbreaking romance dramas or hard-hitting social issues. Unfortunately, some performances in the 2024 lineup failed to impress, even as others delivered unforgettable moments. Let’s dive into the most awkward performances of 2024 that had fans scratching their heads and asking, “What just happened?”
1. Sonya Hussyn in Akhara
Sonya Hussyn tackled the lead in Akhara. This drama was a unique sports thriller that promised intensity and transformation. Despite being an amazing actor, sadly, Hussyn’s performance in the drama did not match the hype. With a mismatched wardrobe and a lack of on-screen chemistry with Shehzad Nawaz, her portrayal felt out of place. Fans expected grit from her acting but got awkwardness instead.
2. Neelam Muneer in Khumar
Neelam Muneer’s role as a sweet, positive character in Khumar should have been heartwarming. Instead, her overly exaggerated expressions made every scene feel forced. On another note, the glamorous styling clashed with the simplicity of her character. The drama was overall difficult to connect with, leaving Munir’s fans disappointed.
Maya Ali, usually a fan favourite, stumbled into Sunn Mere Dil. Her portrayal of Sadaf was stiff and just lacked emotional depth. The audience did not expect that. The actor’s forced expressions and robotic dialogue delivery were quite disappointing to see, especially given her stellar past performances.
4. Sherbano Rehmani in Bismil
Newcomer Sherbano Rehmani faced a tough debut in Bismil. While the drama soared in popularity, her portrayal of Momal struggled to keep up with her seasoned co-stars. Though there is plenty of room for improvement, this performance didn’t hit the mark.
5. Amar Khan in Dil-e-Nadan
Amar Khan’s over-the-top attempt at playing an innocent character in Dil-e-Nadan left viewers wincing with cringe. Her weirdly melodramatic delivery completely overshadowed what could have been a charming role, making the drama tough to sit through.
6. Adnan Jaffar in Ishq Murshid
Playing a corrupt politician, Adnan Jaffar went all out, but not in a good way. Adnan’s overly exaggerated mannerisms paired with a very unconvincing fake moustache made his character seem like a parody. Adnan failed to execute the role of this villain. Unfortunately, the performance left viewers laughing instead of taking the drama seriously.
7. Yashmeera Jan and Ushna Shah in Ghair
Ghair gave us a double dose of cringe. Yashmeera Jan’s villainous Shifa was an embodiment of odd wardrobe choices and inconsistent expressions. Ushna Shah, known for her past brilliance, fumbled the role of Wafa. Her polished appearance clashed with the gritty demands of the role, leaving her performance feeling one-dimensional.
8. Sarah Khan in Namak Haram
Sarah Khan’s Namak Haram performance was as underwhelming as the storyline itself. For some reason, her character lacked energy. Viewers were left disengaged after her performances. Moreover, fans struggled to relate to her robotic vibe and super disconnected portrayal.
Whether it was the unnecessary overacting or the wardrobe malfunctions, these cringe-worthy performances proved that even the most talented actors can fall off sometimes… and it’s okay. While their portrayals were not masterpieces, these misfits can be lessons for the upcoming year. Let 2025 be the year where actors are accurately cast and portray the roles as they’re meant to be.
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The abrupt resignation of Jason Gillespie as Pakistan’s red-ball head coach has left cricket fans buzzing with questions. What really went on behind the scenes? New details shed light on the tensions that led to his decision, and they paint a picture of growing dissatisfaction between Gillespie and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
A Rift Over Roles and Pay
It seems Gillespie’s frustrations began when he was removed from the selection committee—a move that clipped his influence over the team. Sources suggest this wasn’t the only issue. Gillespie had reportedly requested a dual role, hoping to oversee both red-ball and white-ball formats after Gary Kirsten’s resignation. Alongside that, he sought a salary increase.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, however, wasn’t on board. The pay raise request was declined, which reportedly added to Gillespie’s growing discontent.
The Staying-in-Pakistan Dilemma
One of the key sticking points was the PCB’s push for Jason Gillespie to spend more time in Pakistan, even outside of series commitments. This demand didn’t sit well with him. Interestingly, white-ball coach Gary Kirsten had voiced similar reservations before stepping down.
Both Gillespie and Kirsten had made it clear they preferred to fulfill their roles without being tied to Pakistan outside the cricketing calendar. This clash of expectations became another nail in the coaching coffin.
Support Staff and a Threat to Resign
Adding fuel to the fire was the PCB’s refusal to accommodate Gillespie’s preferred support staff. It’s believed that Gillespie had previously warned the board about resigning if his demands weren’t met. True to his word, he officially stepped down just days before Pakistan’s crucial Test series against South Africa.
In the interim, the PCB has turned to Aqib Javed, entrusting him with the red-ball coaching duties. Aqib’s appointment is seen as a practical solution, given his familiarity with the players and the system.
This isn’t the first high-profile resignation in recent months. Gary Kirsten also parted ways with the PCB before Pakistan’s tour of Australia. These back-to-back exits raise questions about the board’s relationship with its foreign coaching staff. Are the expectations from both sides misaligned?
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America is facing one of the most invasive cyber-attacks in its history. Dubbed “Salt Typhoon,”a Chinese hacking group has reportedly penetrated at least eight U.S. telecom networks, stealing call-record metadata and gaining access to sensitive wiretap requests. The implications are staggering: the hackers may have identified American surveillance on Chinese spies and compromised the communications of high-ranking officials, including politicians and government personnel.
Mark Warner, chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, called it “the worst telecom hack in our nation’s history.” Still, officials were still cautious about the extent of the intrusion and how to eliminate them completely – a testament to the advanced nature of China’s cyber campaigns.
Source: NBC News
This is not an isolated incident. The “Volt Typhoon” group, discovered in 2023, had been quietly sitting in critical infrastructure networks for more than five years, monitoring access and preparing for possible conflict. Such operations point to a chilling reality: China’s cyber capabilities are not merely reactive but strategic, embedding themselves deep into critical systems with long-term objectives.
A Decade of Strategic Investment
China’s rise as a cyber-superpower is no accident. Under President Xi Jinping, cyber espionage has become a national priority. Following incidents like Edward Snowden’s revelations in 2013, China ramped up its efforts, creating specialized cybersecurity agencies, sponsoring hacking competitions, and certifying universities to churn out cybersecurity experts. Annually, China now produces an estimated 30,000 trained professionals, fortifying its ranks of hackers.
The government has two missions: to protect its own systems and take advantage of vulnerabilities in others’ systems. New rules also require Chinese experts to report discovered software vulnerabilities directly to the state, providing the government with an arsenal of cyber tools.
The Global Fallout
China denies involvement in the recent hacks, but one is sceptical. The Salt Typhoon affair has spurred international efforts to bolster telecom defenses with Australia, Canada, and New Zealand joining the U.S. in writing new strategies.
Source: Politico
All this has done little to mitigate the enormity of the problem. According to the outgoing FBI director, Christopher Wray, China’s hackers outnumber U.S. cyber agents by at least 50 to 1. Ten years of preparation and a well-funded infrastructure are behind China’s cyber forces, and they have only just begun.
More typhoons are brewing on the horizon, and the battle in cyberspace is expected to get even fiercer.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.
It’s official! Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco have finally confirmed their engagement, delighting fans around the world. The couple made the announcement on December 11, 2024, with an Instagram post.
“Forever Begins Now”
Gomez took to Instagram to share the happy news with her followers. Her Insta post featured a close-up of her stunning marquise diamond ring, with the caption “Forever begins now.”
The second image in the post gave fans a glimpse into the intimate proposal. Staying true to Gomez’s down-to-earth personality, Blanco proposed during a cosy picnic, complete with her favourite fast food: Taco Bell. The sweet, unconventional setting added a personal, intimate touch to the romantic milestone.
The announcement quickly became a hotspot for celebrity reactions. Taylor Swift chimed in, humorously volunteering, “Yes, I will be the flower girl.” Cardi B’s excitement was palpable as she wrote, “Waiiiitttt hold on 😱😱😱😱😱❤️❤️❤️.” Lily Collins, star of Emily in Paris, added, “Ahhhhhhhh yes yes yes!! Best news ever. Couldn’t be more happy for you both ❤️❤️❤️❤️.” Even Lil Nas X joined in, exclaiming, “OMMGGGGG CONGRATSSS AHHH.”
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s engagement is the kind of love story that makes you smile. Many heartfelt congratulations to the happy couple!
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Gukesh Dommaraju re-wrote chess history at the age of 18 by becoming the youngest world champion in history. Indian prodigy dethroned China’s Ding Liren in a dramatic final game of the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship, played in Singapore. This win not only brings Dommaraju into the elite league but also stamps India as a leader in the game of chess globally.
Dommaraju, hailing from Chennai, also known as India’s chess capital, was a child prodigy. He became a chess grandmaster at 12 years of age, making him the third-youngest in history to achieve that title. While his ascension in the chess world was rapid, few thought he would outplay Ding, who was the defending champion.
The Winning Moment
The championship was an eventful affair with both of the players tied at 6.5 points going into the last game. The match player Dommaraju, as black, got the victory after Ding made a fatal error on the 55th move, where his rook was exposed. That error gave Dommaraju the upper hand and after three moves Ding resigned. Overwhelmed by the moment the young champion broke down and wept uncontrollably while the audience in the hall applauded in approval.
Source: Times
“I probably got so emotional because I did not really expect to win from that position,” Dommaraju admitted. His humility underscores the immense pressure he faced during the four-hour showdown.
A Journey of Talent and Determination
Dommaraju’s journey to this historic moment began with after-school chess sessions that were intended to keep him occupied while his parents, a surgeon and a medical professor, managed demanding careers. Coaches soon discovered that he had exceptional talent and invested in his training.
Over the years, Dommaraju has credited yoga and mindfulness for helping him handle the pressures of competitive chess. This mental resilience was evident in the championship, as he remained composed while his opponent faltered under pressure.
Source: News International
A Victory Beyond the Chessboard
This victory makes Dommaraju the second Indian to win the world chess title after Viswanathan Anand, who is a five-time champion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the achievement, terming it “historic and exemplary.”
Dommaraju’s victory marks not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for India, which is now showcasing its growing prowess on the global chess stage.
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Pakistan cricket is no stranger to surprises, both on and off the field. The latest twist? Aqib Javed has been named interim red-ball head coach for the Test series against South Africa. Already juggling responsibilities as the interim white-ball head coach, Aqib now finds himself at the helm of Pakistan’s Test side, stepping in after Jason Gillespie’s sudden resignation.
What Led to Gillespie’s Exit?
Jason Gillespie’s departure from the role of red-ball head coach has stirred the cricketing pot. While the official word from Gillespie cites “personal reasons,” insiders suggest otherwise. He reportedly refused to travel to South Africa for a specialized training camp, a move that caught many off guard.
Sources close to the situation reveal that his decision was influenced by the PCB’s controversial choice not to extend red-ball assistant coach Tim Nielsen’s contract. Gillespie was said to be displeased with the decision, which seems to have been the final straw in his growing discontent with the board.
Adding fuel to the fire were administrative changes made back in October. Gillespie was removed from the Test team’s selection panel, with his responsibilities trimmed down to a “match-day strategist” role. The introduction of Aqib Javed, Aleem Dar, and Azhar Ali to the national selection committee reportedly left Gillespie sidelined.
Enter Aqib Javed
For Aqib Javed, it’s a busy time. Already in South Africa with the white-ball squad, Aqib now has an additional hat to wear. The two-match Test series, starting December 26 in Centurion and wrapping up in Cape Town on January 3, will be his first test (pun intended) as the red-ball head coach.
Known for his disciplined approach and vast experience, Aqib has been a trusted figure in Pakistan cricket. His promotion might not have been part of the initial plan, but his familiarity with the players and the current setup makes him a logical choice.
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The Federal Government has announced an initiative to provide free electric bikes (E-bikes) to 120 top-performing students across Pakistan. This is to showcase eco-friendly transport and support academic excellence. Additionally, 39,000 E-bikes and 1,900 electric rickshaws will be offered on concessional loans as part of the upcoming electric vehicle policy. Plans include installing charging stations at every petrol pump in Islamabad, aligning with PM Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of a sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Punjab has ramped up its e-bike program, raising allocations to 27,200 under the Chief Minister Youth Initiative. Orphaned students and female applicants are prioritized for free E-bikes, with thousands already distributed.
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The third season of Souq Al Freej, a flagship community initiative by Dubai Municipality, begins today, December 13th, at Al Warqa Park 3. This annual event supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Emirati entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to showcase and sell their products directly to the public. Aligned with Dubai’s vision of enhancing residents’ quality of life, the initiative aims to boost confidence in locally-made products while showcasing healthy competition among entrepreneurs, leading to better quality and competitive pricing.
This year’s Souq Al Freej features 30 stalls for home-based businesses and 10 food and beverage vendors, alongside workshops and entertainment, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Running daily from 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM, the market invites the community to enjoy Dubai’s winter weather while exploring a diverse range of offerings. Ahmed Al Zarooni, Director of Parks and Recreational Facilities, emphasized the event’s role in enriching Dubai’s economy through a culture of local production and labour.
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Under October’s Fuel Charge Adjustment (FCA), K-Electric consumers could benefit from an Rs0.27 per unit reduction in electricity bills. This follows a similar Rs0.17 per unit decrease in September, offering much-needed financial relief to Karachi residents. During a Nepra hearing, comparative FCA data revealed that KE customers have consistently paid lower adjustments than other power distribution companies, although concerns about KE’s efficiency and costs were raised.
The reduction, driven by declining global fuel prices and KE’s shift to efficient RLNG-based plants, awaits Nepra’s final decision. Meanwhile, KE’s Multi-Year Tariff review remains unresolved, affecting long-term alignment with national benchmarks. This potential relief comes at a time of heightened economic challenges, promising some respite for KE’s customers.
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