Local police in Pune have initiated an inquiry after a Rs20 Pakistani currency note was discovered near a service lift at the Manas Lake Housing Society in Bhukum village, located in the Pune district of India.
The note was found by Sahdev Yadav, the chairman of the residential society, who promptly reported it to the authorities. Residents handed the note to officials at the Bavdhan police station, which falls under the Pimpri Chinchwad police jurisdiction. The housing society is situated approximately 18 kilometres from the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla.
Following the discovery, the in-charge of Bavdhan police station, Anil Vibhute, confirmed that an inquiry had been launched. “After finding the note, the residents of the society approached the police station and submitted it with an application requesting an investigation. We have begun our inquiry, and the next steps will be determined based on our findings.”
The housing society consists of 84 flats and has a CCTV camera installed next to the lift where the note was found. However, authorities revealed that the camera has been non-functional since 24th November. Police will now review additional CCTV footage from the surrounding area and take statements from residents.
As of now, no First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in connection with the incident.
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Pakistan is set to host another major international cricket event in 2025, with the country confirmed as the venue for the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. This comes in addition to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy the same year.
According to reports, the Women’s World Cup qualifying matches will be played in multiple cities across Pakistan in April, ahead of the main tournament in India later that year. The competition will feature six teams—Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand and the West Indies—battling for a place in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2026. The top two teams will secure their spots in the tournament, joining the top six sides from the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-2025.
Pakistan, which has not yet qualified for the World Cup, will also compete in the qualifiers, aiming to earn its place in the prestigious event. To prepare for the challenge, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a 27-day training camp for the national women’s team at the High-Performance Academy in Faisalabad. Running from 2 to 28 February, the camp includes 50-over practice matches and intensive training sessions focused on improving skills and fitness.
As part of an agreement following India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, the ICC has also awarded Pakistan the hosting rights for the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup.
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One Direction has rejected an offer to reunite at the Brit Awards to honour their late bandmate, Liam Payne. According to The Sun, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik were approached for a tribute performance but decided to reject the offer.
“It has been a really emotional time for the lads, and it was decided it would just be too much,” a source told the outlet. “They have grieved in private and don’t feel the need to do a big, showy tribute for the sake of it.”
The decision may disappoint millions of fans hoping for a long-awaited One Direction reunion, but insiders say the timing isn’t right. “Apart from anything else, Zayn lives in America now, and they are all at different places in life. A One Direction reunion is not on the cards at all,” the source added.
One Direction’s last performed together was in 2015 before announcing their indefinite separation in 2016. Since then, all members have pursued solo careers, with Styles, Horan, Tomlinson and Malik achieving individual success in music. Payne, who also released solo music, tragically passed away in October 2024 at the age of 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Although the band won’t reunite, Brit Awards host Jack Whitehall is set to pay a heartfelt tribute to Payne during the ceremony on March 1. The music industry and fans continue to mourn his loss, remembering his contributions to one of the biggest boy bands of all time.
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American teacher Marc Fogel is home free and the political chumocracy has erupted in both celebration and criticism. Fogel spent over three years in a Russian jail on drug charges and was welcomed back to the US by President Trump in a “fair and reasonable” swap. But the details of the deal are murky and that’s got everyone asking what else have they given up.
A Political Strategy or Genuine Negotiation?
Fogel, a longtime teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow, was arrested in 2021 for having a small amount of medical cannabis prescribed for chronic back pain. Despite calls for his release he was kept in harsh conditions and served 14 years in a Russian labour camp. He was designated as “wrongfully detained” by the US State Department along with other high profile cases. Fogel was, however, excluded from previous prisoner swaps under the Biden administration.
Source: Financial Times
Trump, flanked by national security officials, called it a big win for US-Russia relations. “It’s a sign we are moving in the right direction,” he said crediting Russian President Vladimir Putin for the deal. This has been met with criticism as it seems to treat Putin as a partner at a time of ongoing tensions over Ukraine.
The administration is remaining tight-lipped about the details of the deal, but speculation is widespread that a Russian national held in the U.S. was released in exchange. Previous prisoner swaps included arms dealers and intelligence operatives so it’s important to ask did the US give up too much to get Fogel back. Critics argue these deals embolden authoritarian regimes to detain American citizens as bargaining chips.
Source: France 24
What’s Next for America-Russia Relations?
Adding to the intrigue is Trump’s special envoy for Middle East affairs Steve Witkoff who was involved in the negotiations with Russian intermediaries and Qatar. Is this a new strategy towards Russia or just a one off?
For Fogel and his family the ordeal is over. “This has been the darkest period of our lives but today we begin to heal,”his family shared. However, for the US government the question remains whether this was a win or loss
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Following the end of a highly destructive war, with tour pioneers counting on the rebirth of tourism in the country, Syria is slowly but surely also coming back to the world. The revolution that took place in Syria in December 2024 and the subsequent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime is of historic proportion and unprecedented. For the first time since the civil war broke out, international airlines are back in Damascus, signifying a bonding of the conflict-affected country with the world. However, fears concerning stability and security remain.
A Land Steeped in History
Syria was one of the world’s top tourist destinations, welcoming more than 10 million visitors a year before the onset of the war. Palmyra, the ancient city of legend, and the Krak des Chevaliers, the medieval fortress, are “enduring” symbols of Syria’s cultural and historical heritage. They have each survived centuries of conflict. Despite the setbacks of the civil war and ISIS, the recovery and preservation of these sites have now started, with tourism viewed as the primary driver for economic growth.
Source: CTV
The Ethics and Risks of Visiting Syria
Syria is on a path to opening up. However, Western countries are still issuing a warning against travel to Syria based on the high-security risks. The new transitional government, which is ruled by a coalition of rebels, is still weak, and problems dealing with governance and stability continue. The argument of self-preservation/food shortages and/or political uncertainty, as well as the question of what is the future of the country, is an interesting one.
Despite these difficulties, travel agencies that are focused on unusual destinations are making plans, especially for history lovers. Regional providers think that the tourism industry of the country can be a vehicle for its economic recovery and shape its international image. However, the ethical considerations of visiting a country still fresh from peacekeeping are a matter of dispute.
A New Kind of Tourism
As opposed to pre-war guests who were eager to see Syria’s grand past, the recent history of conflict and resilience is what’s driving visitors to come there now.
Source: Daily Sabah
Tours now include visits to former battlefields, bombed-out cities and even prisons once used by Assad’s regime. This ‘dark tourism’ trend is controversial but is seen as a way to educate the world about Syria’s past and the struggles of its people.
While uncertainty looms, Syrians like Ayoub Alsmadi, a Damascus-based tour operator, remain hopeful. “Tourism was the first to collapse in war, and it will be the last to recover. But it will return,” he shared. Whether Syria can sustain this revival remains to be seen, but for now, a new chapter in its history is being written—one that many hope will lead to lasting peace and prosperity.
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Kanye West, once a dominant force in music and fashion, now finds himself at the centre of yet another controversy—one that might finally mark the end of his career. After a series of antisemitic bluster, Nazi-isms, and questionable business operations, West has been turned loose by the big sponsors, may be plagued with legal problems and will soon find his remaining support in the industry evaporating.
Shopify and Talent Agency Sever Ties
The e-commerce behemoth Shopify made the news closing down West’s online shop for good after he tried to sell a t-shirt with a swastika on it. This ignited a backlash with a Super Bowl ad showing viewers the site Yeezy.com, and the offensive merchandise came as a result of the platform’s violations of terms and service, “This merchant did not do genuine business activities.”
Source: NYT
Simultaneously, talent agency 33&West stated that they would no longer represent West as a result of his inflammatory comments. His music agent, Daniel McCartney, posted to Instagram that the company is against West’s “harmful and hateful statements,” representing a strong rejection of the rapper’s conduct in the industry.
Legal Trouble and Workplace Allegations
Adding to West’s troubles, a former Yeezy marketer has filed a lawsuit against him, alleging workplace harassment, antisemitic remarks and discrimination. The lawsuit details disturbing behaviour, including West reportedly referring to himself as a Nazi, sending offensive messages and verbally abusing employees. The plaintiff claims she was fired after reporting his behaviour, raising further concerns about a toxic workplace culture.
Is Kanye West’s Career Finally Over?
A Career in Freefall?
This is not the first time that West’s behaviour has claimed a heavy price. In 2022, the trend led to Adidas, Balenciaga and Gap ending their relationship with him after the same antisemitic statements, which consequently led to the loss of his billionaire status. Nevertheless, the recent censure implies an even greater slump and, thereby, less chance for salvation.
Though West has, of course, been good at stirring up controversy, it may now be the case that against him, the tide turns. Given significant attention from major platforms, industry peers and former colleagues, his sustainability of relevance is under severe threat. Is this truly the end of Kanye West’s career, or will he find a way to reemerge once again?
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Starbucks was sued on Tuesday by the US state of Missouri, which accused the coffee chain of using a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as a pretext for systematic racism, gender bias and other factors.
In a complaint filed in St. Louis federal court, Missouri accused Starbucks of tying executive pay to the company’s achieving racial and gender-based hiring quotas. Starbucks was accused of targeting certain groups for extra training and job opportunities, and using a quota system for diverse representation on its board of directors.
“All of this is unlawful,” and violates federal and state civil rights laws, according to the complaint from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey.
Bailey, a Republican, argued that Missouri consumers pay higher prices and wait longer for services at Starbucks than they would if the Seattle-based chain employed the most qualified workers.
“We disagree with the attorney general and these allegations are inaccurate,” Starbucks stated. “We are deeply committed to creating opportunity for every single one of our partners (employees). Our programmes and benefits are open to everyone and lawful.”
US President Donald Trump, also a Republican, has tried to shut down policies promoting diversity, equity and inclusion inside and outside the federal government. Some companies have taken action.
For example, the Wall Street bank Goldman Sachs on Tuesday cancelled a policy to take companies public only if they had two diverse board members, generally defined as people from underrepresented demographics.
It’s Not Just Starbucks
Last week, meanwhile, Google scrapped diversity-based hiring targets, Amazon.com removed a reference to inclusion and diversity from its annual report.
Tuesday’s lawsuit challenged Starbucks policies adopted since 2020, after the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer triggered unrest nationwide.
Missouri said Starbucks’ alleged endorsement of quotas “should come as no surprise,” citing new Chief Executive Brian Niccol’s support of environmental, social and governance goals while leading the Chipotle burrito chain.
Starbucks employs about 211,000 people in the U.S. and 361,000 people worldwide.
In August 2023, a federal judge in Spokane, Washington dismissed a shareholder lawsuit challenging Starbucks’ diversity policies, saying the case addressed public policy questions best decided by lawmakers and companies, not courts.
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Cricket can be cruel sometimes. One moment you’re preparing for a major tournament, and the next, an injury takes it all away. Afghanistan’s young spin sensation, AM Ghazanfar, is the latest victim of this harsh reality.
The 18-year-old spinner has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a fracture in the L4 vertebra. The injury, which he sustained during Afghanistan’s tour of Zimbabwe, will keep him out of action for at least four months.
That means he’s not only missing the Champions Trophy but also the IPL 2025, where he had just secured a maiden contract with Mumbai Indians.
Tough luck for the youngster, but the show must go on.
With AM Ghazanfar out, Nangyal Kharote has been promoted from the reserves to Afghanistan’s main squad. The 20-year-old left-arm spinner hasn’t played for Afghanistan since their ODI series against Bangladesh in November 2024.
However, he made quite an impact in that series, especially in the second game, where he picked up 3 for 28 to help Afghanistan secure a win.
Kharote might not have a long international career yet, but his seven ODIs and six T20Is have shown glimpses of his potential. And now, he has a golden opportunity to prove himself on the big stage.
Afghanistan’s spin department is already facing a setback with Mujeeb Ur Rahman still out due to an ongoing injury. With both Mujeeb and Ghazanfar missing, Afghanistan’s bowling attack will lean heavily on Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and now, Kharote.
Afghanistan squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharote, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran and Farid Ahmad Malik.
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On February 10, 2025, YouTube personality and content creator Ranveer Allahbadia, more popularly known as Beerbiceps, sparked controversy after telling an inappropriate joke on Samay Raina’s show, India’s Got Latent. Within no time, the joke began trending online with a lot of backlash and court trouble.
After the clip had gone viral, social media was filled with criticisms as many were apparently extremely disappointed with Allahbadia. FIRs were filed against him and others in the show, including influencer Apoorva Makhija and comedian Samay Raina, for “promoting obscenity.” The Mumbai Police initiated an investigation that heightened the public’s attention towards the show and its content.
Source: Brandbranch
Government Response and Free Speech Debate
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also added his two cents to the debate, stating that freedom of speech is there, but it doesn’t mean taking away someone else’s freedom. His statement fueled the debate regarding the limits of free speech and whether humour has its boundaries, especially on public platforms.
In response to the backlash, Ranveer issued a public apology, stating that he is “not a comic” and never intended to offend anyone. His apology failed to ease the outrage, as many highlighted the stark contrast between his typical content and the joke he made. His social media comment sections remain filled with disappointed followers questioning his judgment.
This case has once again brought out the debate over dark humour- is it okay to joke about anything, no matter how fragile, under the pretext of comedy? The show’s proponents argue that comedy is personal and litigation over a joke is too much. On the other hand, some find that certain topics must not be joked about at all, especially those that encourage crudeness or insensitivity.
This is not the first instance when India’s Got Latent landed into trouble. An FIR had previously been filed against a contestant over remarks regarding the consumption of dog meat. Comedian Samay Raina was also targeted previously for his chuckles at off-colour jokes. The case does remind one of the obscenity cases that went against All India Bakchod in 2015, eventually forcing the group into oblivion.
With an ongoing investigation and mounting pressure, the future of India’s Got Latent hangs in the balance. Will it survive the backlash, or will it face the same fate as past controversial comedy groups? Only time will tell.
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Valentine’s Day is on the corner. For many, this is the day of love, solely dedicated to expressing what you feel for your partner through grand gestures and cute gifts. But getting a gift can be nerve-wracking. You get something too romantic, and suddenly, your not-too-serious relationship becomes too serious, or you get something too generic, and your partner taunts you for it for the rest of the year.
While there is still time, it’s best that you wear your big-boy pants and know what you shall NOT gift your partner this anxiety-inducing beautiful day. So, let’s dive in right away.
Skip the Boring Greeting Cards
Are you gifting greeting cards this Valentine’s Day? Seriously? Sure, they’d be a good gift idea if we lived in 2015, but fortunately, we don’t! If you think your partner is mushy and cheesy, it certainly doesn’t mean gifting greeting cards is a good idea. They’re a slow death, and they rot away in the cabinets with no one even batting an eye on them. And don’t even get me started about e-cards; if there is anything worse than traditional cards, it is E-cards.
Skip the Boring Greeting Cards
Teddy Bears?
If you have bought a teddy bear holding a cute little heart, I’d strongly recommend you stab it. Yes, you heard me right! Give that teddy the death it deserves before your partner does it when they see you holding it. Teddy bears are so early 2000s, and trust me; no one wants them anymore.
Teddy Bears?
Tacky Heart-Shaped Balloons from the Traffic Signal
As Valentine’s Day approaches, you’ll see little boys at traffic signals selling heart-shaped balloons, and while I’m all in for supporting the less-privileged, please do your partners a favour and don’t get them the balloons! Unless, obviously, you’re Subodh from Dil Chahta Hai; in that case, you’re helpless, my friend!
Let’s be brutally honest here: unless you are a professional artist who knows what they are doing, stay away from DIY on Valentine’s Day. Your handwork might end up looking like you were just too lazy to get an actual gift. Save the scrapbook ideas for some other day. However, if your inner artist just doesn’t give up, make sure your DIY project isn’t the only thing you’re gifting.
Gym Membership
Umm, excuse me, are you trying to give a hint? Because obviously, nothing screams I love you like asking your partner to hit the gym, right? WRONG! Sure, you might have good intentions, but a surprise gym membership can be taken the wrong way. So, if you don’t want to offend your partner on the one day they should feel loved, stick to safe ideas.
Keeping everything aside, you know what’s one thing you REALLY don’t want to give your partner on Valentine’s Day? It’s the gift of cheating. So you better stay in your lane and make your partner feel loved this V-Day!
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Cricketers often say that the game is unpredictable. One day you’re a national hero, the next, you’re struggling for opportunities. Usman Qadir knows this feeling all too well.
The 31-year-old leg-spinner has decided to settle in Australia after years of frustration over inconsistent chances with the Pakistan team. He believes that if he had been backed like Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, and Mohammad Nawaz, things might have been different.
“If I had been given consistent opportunities like them, I would have done something different,” Qadir told reporters, voicing his disappointment.
Usman Qadir’s story is one of flashes of brilliance followed by long spells on the sidelines. He played just one ODI and 25 T20Is for Pakistan, taking 32 wickets in total. Yet, despite some strong performances early on, he was dropped.
According to Qadir, it wasn’t just about performance—it was about the “liking and disliking” culture in team selection.
“I did well in my first two series, but still got dropped,” he said, suggesting favoritism played a role in his exclusion.
Frustrated with the lack of opportunities, he announced his retirement from Pakistan cricket in October 2023 and made the big move to Australia last month.
What’s Next for Qadir?
For now, Usman Qadir is focused on Australian domestic cricket. He recently turned out for Hawkesbury Club in Sydney and hopes to rise through the ranks.
“My first plan is to perform well, progress slowly, and play domestic cricket here,” he shared.
When asked about his long-term goals, he kept things open-ended. “I don’t think too much about the future. Maybe you’ll see me playing at the MCG next year.”
That’s a big statement, but in cricket, you never know.
Usman Qadir’s move raises an interesting question—could he end up playing for Australia one day? It wouldn’t be the first time a Pakistani cricketer has switched allegiances.
With his talent and experience, he could make a name for himself in Australia’s domestic circuit. Whether that leads to an international call-up or just a fulfilling club career, only time will tell.
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning something special before PSL 10—an exhibition match at Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium. If all goes as planned, top Pakistani stars will be in action, giving fans in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) a thrilling spectacle.
And here’s the best part—this could be the first step toward bringing PSL matches to Peshawar!
Arbab Niaz Stadium—A Venue Ready for Action
Before the big game, construction work at Arbab Niaz Stadium is set to be completed. This means the stadium will finally be ready to host top-tier cricket after a long break.
If you don’t know, this venue was once a regular spot for international cricket. But due to security concerns, it hasn’t hosted an international match since 2006. The last big game? A Pakistan vs. India ODI—talk about nostalgia!
But now, the PCB and Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi are pushing hard to bring big cricket back.
Javed Afridi’s Efforts to Bring PSL to Peshawar
Javed Afridi has been quite vocal about hosting Zalmi’s home games in Peshawar. He even reached out to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, urging him to consider Arbab Niaz Stadium as a venue for PSL 10.
His efforts got a boost when Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur directed the sports department to release funds for the stadium’s final construction phase. Afridi shared the update on social media, saying:
“Chairman PCB is in favor of hosting the Peshawar Zalmi games in Peshawar. Get ready for some thrilling events before PSL, fans will see international stars at KP soil. InshaAllah.”
This isn’t the first time PCB has organized an exhibition match before PSL. In 2023, a similar match was held in Quetta, creating a buzz among fans. If the Peshawar game happens, it will be another major step in expanding cricket across Pakistan.
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Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc withdrew from the Champions Trophy due to some personal reasons. His departure from the squad will leave an impact as Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are already injured. This leaves the Australian squad without its three frontline quicks for the ODI tournament in Pakistan and the UAE.
Starc’s withdrawal comes after pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were ruled out due to injuries. World champions Australia will now rely on fast bowlers – Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis – in their bid for more ODI wins.
Selectors stated that Starc will not be available for the two warmup ODIs as well against Sri Lanka. “We understand and respect Mitch’s decision,” selector George Bailey stated on Wednesday. “His loss is, of course, a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity to someone else to make a mark on the tournament.”
Selectors confirmed Steve Smith will lead the squad in Cummins’ absence, who recently captained Australia in their 2-0 series against Sri Lanka. Australia will also be without injured all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and bowling all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who surprisingly retired from ODIs.
Power hitter Jake Fraser-McGurk has been included in the 15-man squad and may replace Marsh at number three in the batting, with Matt Short and Travis Head likely to open.
Australia will open their Champions Trophy campaign against England in Lahore on February 22 and play further group matches against South Africa and Afghanistan.
Current Australian Squad
Steve Smith (capt)
Sean Abbott
Alex Carey
Ben Dwarshuis
Nathan Ellis
Jake Fraser-McGurk
Aaron Hardie Travis Head
Josh Inglis
Spencer Johnson
Marnus Labuschagne
Glenn Maxwell
Tanveer Sangha
Matthew Short
Adam Zampa
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Apple is set to launch the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4, marking a significant shift in its most affordable iPhone lineup. From the departure of the iconic home button to a powerful new chip and improved camera system, here’s a look at the 10 key upgrades you can expect from the iPhone SE 4.
A Fresh, Modern Design
One of the most noticeable changes in the iPhone SE 4 is the switch to a more contemporary design inspired by the iPhone 14. Moving away from the outdated iPhone 8-era look, the SE 4 adopts sleek, flat edges and a larger footprint, giving it a more premium feel. The new aluminium and glass design will also feature Ceramic Shield glass, offering enhanced durability.
After 18 years of being a defining feature of the iPhone, the home button is finally retired. The SE 4 will now rely on Face ID housed in a display notch for authentication, marking the end of Touch ID and the home button era.
Introducing the Action Button
Apple is also replacing the traditional mute switch with a customisable Action button, first seen on the iPhone 15 Pro. This programmable button allows users to quickly access their preferred functions, adding a new level of customisation to the device.
A Bigger and Better Display
The iPhone SE 4 will feature a significant upgrade in its display, shifting from a small 4.7-inch LCD screen to a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch. This change brings the SE in line with Apple’s current design language, offering improved contrast, better colour reproduction and a more immersive viewing experience.
A Leap in Performance with the A18 Chip
Powered by the A18 chip from the iPhone 16, the SE 4 will leave behind the A15 Bionic. This chip will not only offer significant performance improvements but also enable Apple Intelligence features, making the phone smarter and faster than its predecessor.
More RAM and Storage for Better Performance
In another big upgrade, the base storage of the SE 4 will double to 128GB, while RAM will increase to 8GB (up from 4GB). This boost ensures smoother multitasking and future-proofing, making the device more capable of handling demanding apps and updates in the years to come.
Upgraded Camera for Stunning Photos
The iPhone SE 4 will feature a powerful camera upgrade, moving from a 12MP to a 48MP rear camera. This will bring the SE’s camera performance in line with flagship iPhones, offering improved low-light performance and features like 2x optical-quality zoom via cropping.
Bigger Battery, Longer Life
With a larger chassis, the SE 4 will also house a much bigger 3,279mAh battery, up from 2,018mAh in the SE 3. Combined with the efficient A18 chip, users can expect significantly better battery life, keeping the phone running longer throughout the day.
USB-C Charging and MagSafe Support
Say goodbye to Lightning as the SE 4 embraces USB-C charging. Additionally, the new iPhone will support MagSafe wireless charging, making it compatible with the latest charging standards and magnetic accessories.
Slight Price Increase for Major Upgrades
With all these enhancements, the iPhone SE 4 will come with a price increase, expected to retail for $499 compared to the SE 3’s $439 price tag. Despite the price hike, the upgrades in design, performance and features make it a compelling choice for those looking for a premium experience at a more affordable price.
The iPhone SE 4 is poised to redefine the budget iPhone segment, delivering flagship-level features while maintaining the affordable nature of its predecessors. With a sleeker design, improved performance and a host of new features, it’s clear that the iPhone SE 4 is more than just a simple refresh—it’s a major upgrade that brings Apple’s budget offering into the modern era.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
Head of ACCA Pakistan, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the need for AI integration, sustainability practices.
Lahore, 10 February 2025: The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) successfully hosted Pakistan Leadership Conversation (PLC) 2025 in Lahore, convening industry leaders, policymakers, and finance professionals to explore key drivers of sustainable economic growth in an evolving global landscape.
Under the theme “From Surviving to Thriving: AI, Sustainability & Talent,” the conference examined how businesses and finance professionals can leverage technology, drive sustainability, and develop future-ready talent in a complex digital world.
Assad Hameed Khan, Head of ACCA Pakistan, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the need for AI integration, sustainability practices, and workforce transformation. Ayla Majid, President ACCA, in her keynote speech on “Sustainability and Climate Tech in the Age of AI,” underscored the role of finance professionals in navigating climate challenges through responsible financial practices.
The conference featured two high-impact panel discussions. The first panel, “Leading the Green Transition with Climate Risk Assessments,” focused on ESG guidelines, sustainability reporting, and climate resilience. Industry leaders including Fauzia Safdar Khan (Crowe Hussain Chaudhury & Co.), Kehkeshan Usman (MG Apparel), Ayesha Aziz (Packages Limited), Hammad Naqi Khan (WWF Pakistan), Haider Malhi (Sika Pakistan), and Shahzaib Sanwal FCCA (EY Ford Rhodes) shared insights on driving sustainable business models. The panel was moderated by Basma Noor, SKANS School of Accountancy.
The second panel, “AI and the Future of Work: Rethinking Talent,” explored evolving skill sets and the impact of AI on employment. Experts Badar Khushnood (Fishry.com), Tehmina Shafi Khan (MCB Bank), Zeeshan Umer (AARO Middle East), Zaigham Rasool (PwC Pakistan), Nofel Daud (Bank of Punjab), and Samir Ahmed (LUMS) discussed strategies to prepare professionals for a rapidly changing workforce. The panel was moderated by Cynthia Macdonald FCCA, The Salvation Army.
Assad Hameed Khan, Head of ACCA Pakistan, emphasized ACCA’s role in equipping finance professionals with digital and sustainability expertise, stating: “PLC 2025 underscores our commitment to fostering a resilient and future-ready Pakistan. We thank our esteemed speakers and partners for shaping these critical conversations.”
Ayla Majid, President ACCA, reinforced the finance profession’s role in driving responsible business, stating:“By embracing AI, climate-conscious finance, and ethical leadership, we can redefine success in a rapidly transforming world.”
Supported by strategic partners, PLC 2025 provided a valuable platform for industry leaders to exchange insights and shape the future of sustainable business and talent development in Pakistan.
What makes Priyanka Chopra different from many others in the entertainment industry is her unapologetically strong, independent persona. Chopra has always voiced her opinions and never shied away from challenging the status quo. In her work as well as her personal life, she has constantly shown that she does not exist to fit into others’ expectations.
She has always been about her career, her values and never the fame that comes with it. In fact, she believes that success must be a product of your work and that is not the goal in itself. This is the reason why she does not let fame define her. To her, it has always been about a job and not a status.
What Defines Priyanka Chopra?
Recently, in a podcast interview, Priyanka discussed something that has always been at the core of her philosophy: her fame is a byproduct of her job, not the purpose of her life. She said, “I am not famous for a living. I work for a living.”This statement speaks volumes about her character. For Priyanka, fame was never the end goal. It was simply a natural outcome of her dedication to her work. She has clarified that fame is not her identity.
Fame is transient, but work, passion and dedication are timeless. In a world where fame is considered the ultimate high, Chopra’s words remind us it’s not really about the fame but the work that goes into it.
While Chopra’s career has taken her to the highest levels of fame, one thing that remains constant is her love for her family. In an industry where work can often overshadow personal life, Chopra has always prioritised her family. Her recent comments about dancing at family functions are a testament to this.
The podcast questioned if, with so much fan following, would Priyanka dance in the functions happening within her own family? The actress stated she doesn’t find anything wrong in dancing there and having a great time. “Why can’t I dance at my brother’s function? Of course, I will. My family is the most important thing to me.”
The Role of Fame in Priyanka’s Life
Priyanka has always had a practical approach to fame. She views it as a consequence of her hard work, not the goal. Her fame might have opened many doors for her, but it’s her talent, determination and authenticity that have kept her going.
Her approach to fame reminds one that it is the work that counts, not the applause that follows. In a world where people measure success by the number of followers or media coverage, Priyanka shows that true success lies in staying true to oneself.
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YouTube is officially two decades old! Since its launch in 2005, it has turned from a simple video-sharing site to the largest entertainment hub on the Internet. From viral moments to big changes, here are ten events that shaped YouTube into what it is today.
1. The First-Ever YouTube Video (April 2005)
For YouTube, things started with ‘Me at the Zoo’, a 19-second video, uploaded by co-founder Jawed Karim, which was the very first video posted on the site. Little did he know—he was changing history even though it was only him standing before elephants.
2. Google Buys YouTube (November 2006)
YouTube was on the fast track by 2006 and Google was taking note. Helping YouTube grow, enhance its capabilities and reach many more people around the earth, the tech giant acquired the platform for $1.65 billion in very same year.
Google Buys YouTube (November 2006)
3. YouTube Creators Start Earning (May 2007)
YouTube introduced its Partner Programme in 2007, therefore letting creators earn from their videos. This turned everything around. For many people, what started as a hobby, quickly became their professions.
4. “Gangnam Style” Smashes Records (December 2012)
Psy’s “Gangnam Style“ wasn’t just a catchy song—it was a global sensation. Its billion views in 2012 made it the first video to validate YouTube as a channel for shaping popular culture rather than just a repository of odd clips. I bet everyone remembers it but lets reminisce, shall we?
5. YouTube Changes Its Algorithm (2012)
In 2012, YouTube made a major update to how it recommended videos. Instead of focusing on views, it started prioritising watch time. This meant that longer, engaging videos were pushed more, leading creators to change how they made content.
In 2017, major companies pulled their ads from YouTube after concerns about their ads appearing next to inappropriate content. In response, YouTube introduced stricter rules. While this helped advertisers, many creators saw their earnings drop overnight.
7. YouTube Becomes the World’s Biggest Classroom
YouTube slowly turned into more than just an entertainment platform. Over the years, it became a go-to place for learning. Whether it’s makeup tutorials, coding lessons, or university lectures, YouTube became the world’s largest free classroom.
8. Live Streaming Becomes Mainstream (2011-Present)
Although YouTube added live streaming in 2011, it shot off by 2017. Users began using it to transmit breaking news as well as gaming. Live streams surged in popularity during the COVID-19 epidemic as people searched for current content.
9. YouTube Shorts Arrive (September 2020)
Shorts came out in 2020 by YouTube to rival TikTok. Becoming a hit, these quick, snappy videos provided authors with a different means of going viral and drawing followers.
Famous for his wild stunts and large donations, MrBeast is now among YouTube’s most famous celebrities. His generosity-driven material—such as the distribution of homes and planting of millions of trees—demonstrated that popular videos can also have an impact.
The Platform that Changed Everything
YouTube has transformed our viewing, learning and producing from a basic video of a man at the zoo to a billion-view viral hit. One thing is sure as it marks 20 years: YouTube is more than just a platform; it is a significant component of digital culture.
Here’s to the next 20 years of unforgettable moments!
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In a major crackdown on immigration, more than 100 Pakistani nationals have been deported from Saudi Arabia, Canada and the UAE in cases of visa violation, illegal stay and labour law breach. The number of deportations has been rising as it indicates the problems going on in the present scenario with overseas workers and travellers who do not meet legal requirements.
Saudi Arabia Tops the List
The most severe action was taken by the Saudi authorities, as they deported 42 people. These included five blacklisted Pakistanis, 13 accused of begging and five who had overstayed their visas. Furthermore, 16 workers were to be expelled for violating their employment contracts while 23 absconders—those who had left their jobs without informing their sponsors—were also sent back.
Source: Dawn
The Kafala system is an important factor as 13 Pakistanis were deported for working without a legal sponsor. Saudi labour laws force foreign workers to officially get a sponsor who should be responsible for their working contract. Violations normally end in deportation and blacklisting.
Canada, UAE and Iraq also Crack Down
Besides deportations in Saudi Arabia, from where the majority deportation happened, other nations followed suit. Canada deported one Pakistani for visa overstaying while Iraq removed seven people for residence without permission. In the UAE, one Pakistani national was turned back due to a lack of proper documentation; nine others were deported after their jail terms had been served. Three blacklisted people were deported from Oman and Somaliland. These countries ensured proper border controls remained strict.
Troubles on the Travel Front
Karachi Airport immigration authorities also detained 47 Pakistani passengers from travelling due to issues of visa and documentation. Among them were three blacklisted individuals and several passengers who attempted to travel to the UK, Turkey and Saudi Arabia under suspicious circumstances, respectively.
Source: Dawn
Notably, 19 Umrah pilgrims were offloaded due to a lack of hotel bookings and insufficient financial proof, reflecting stricter travel regulations for religious visitors. Other passengers were denied travel to destinations like Thailand, Malaysia and South Africa due to visa inconsistencies.
These deportations and travelling restrictions point towards increased scrutiny on immigration processes. Most Pakistani workers and visitors experience problems due to ignorance regarding visa rules, labour contracts and documentation. The scenario reflects the requirement of improved legal counselling and support systems that would avert all kinds of breaches and make the procedure of migration smooth.
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that the brand-new pavilion at the University Road End of the National Bank Stadium will be officially opened later today (Tuesday). “This state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in the stadium’s history, reinforcing PCB’s commitment to enhancing cricket infrastructure in Pakistan,” the board said in a press release.
The newly constructed pavilion features world-class dressing rooms for players and match officials, complemented by high-quality hospitality rooms. “Developed in a record time of around four months, the facility underscores the dedication and efficiency behind the stadium’s rapid transformation,” it said.
In addition to the new pavilion, several major upgrades have been completed at the National Bank Stadium to enhance playing and viewing. These include the installation of 350 LED lights to improve broadcast quality, the fixing of two digital replay screens and the addition of over 5,000 new chairs to enhance spectator comfort.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi made multiple visits to the stadium to ensure the timely completion of the work. Nearly 5,000 dedicated workers contributed tirelessly to transforming the stadium, ensuring its full operational readiness for the upcoming tri-series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi said the upgrade was a testament to the board’s vision of elevating Pakistan’s cricketing venues to international standards. The National Bank Stadium, which last saw a major overhaul during the 1996 World Cup, now stands as a modern, world-class facility that will host domestic and international matches and provide players and fans with a top-tier experience.
“The incredible workforce behind this transformation deserves immense appreciation. Their hard work has made it possible for us to proudly present the National Bank Stadium as a world-class venue, ready to welcome top cricketing action.”
To honour their commitment, Naqvi will host a reception for the workers at 5:30 pm on Tuesday at the stadium. The stadium has a proud history of producing thrilling matches, while Karachi has given Pakistan some of its finest cricketers. With this enhanced, spectator-friendly venue, the hope is that more young talent will emerge.
Additionally, the PCB encourages parents to bring their young children to matches, fostering a love for cricket from an early age. By exposing the next generation to high-quality cricket, Pakistan can continue to produce world-class cricketers for years to come.
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Drake seemingly addressed his ongoing feud with Kendrick Lamar by changing his lyrics while performing Knife Talk in Melbourne. Instead of the original line, “Beef is live, spoiler alert, this n***a dies,” he rapped, “Beef is live, spoiler alert, I never died,”which fans believe was a direct response to Lamar’s recent Super Bowl Halftime Show performance.
This comes after Lamar took shots at Drake during the Super Bowl, referencing his rumored legal battle with Universal Music Group and even bringing Serena Williams onstage, seen by some as a subtle jab at Drake. The move has sparked online debate, with fans arguing over who is keeping the beef alive.
Drake is currently on his Anita Max Win Tour in Australia, with upcoming shows in Sydney and Brisbane before wrapping up in New Zealand. As tensions rise, fans are eager to see what happens next in this rap rivalry.
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