Rajkumar Hirani's directorial 'Dunki,' starring Shah Rukh Khan, surpassed ₹200 crores at the Indian box office on its 14th day. Released on December 21, 2023, the film has been consistently performing well. Sacnilk.com reported earnings of ₹160.22 crores in the first week, with a total of ₹203.92 crores nett. Hirani, emphasizing artistic dedication, mentioned the film's universal appeal. 'Dunki' weaves a heartwarming narrative around four friends aspiring for a better life in London. Despite the focus on commercial success, Hirani values crafting stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

Previously sealed court documents unsealed this week reveal the names of several high-profile associates of deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including Prince Andrew, former president Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, and Donald Trump. The names were contained in depositions related to a lawsuit brought by Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre against British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted last year on sex trafficking charges for procuring girls for Epstein. While the documents contain no new accusations of wrongdoing against those named within, some are mentioned in passing during testimony. Epstein died by suicide in jail in 2019 ahead of a sex trafficking trial. Maxwell maintains her innocence and is currently appealing her conviction in the case.

A severe cold wave has blanketed northern India, with temperatures plummeting below -5°C in Indian-administered Kashmir. Dense fog engulfs regions, disrupting flights and train services, impacting daily commuting. Famous landmarks like Dal Lake freeze partially, affecting boat transport. Water pipelines freeze, hindering access to daily necessities. Delhi experiences temperatures as low as 7°C, particularly affecting the homeless. The cold snap disrupts train schedules, causing chaos for millions of passengers dependent on the Indian Railways. Health concerns arise, exacerbated by Delhi's winter pollution. The weather department advises caution, urging people to use fog lights and limit outdoor activities during the persistent cold wave.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal faces potential trouble as the Enforcement Directorate considers a fourth summons, following his refusal to attend the third, sources report. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) predicts an imminent arrest, citing increased security and warnings of an early morning raid. Kejriwal plans a 3-day tour in Gujarat, possibly avoiding ED actions. AAP alleges BJP leaders' advance knowledge, while Delhi Police denies blocking roads to Kejriwal's residence. The CM, who skipped recent ED summons, deems them illegal and seeks clarity on his role. This marks the third missed summons in a political tussle ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

As Bangladesh prepares for general elections, neighbor India has clear interests in the outcome. India sees Bangladesh as a strategic ally crucial to securing its northeast states. Prime Minister Hasina has fostered close ties with India. But the opposition accuses India of backing Hasina and undermining democracy. India wants stability and fears Islamist groups returning if Hasina loses. It's resisted sanctions over rights concerns. With road and river access at stake, India worries about China's growing regional clout. Despite close government ties, some Bangladeshis are suspicious of India's treatment of Muslims. India touts strategic interests but risks alienating Bangladeshis if seen as meddling.

The United States, joined by 12 allied nations, has issued a final warning to Houthi rebels, demanding an immediate halt to their attacks on Red Sea vessels. The rebels, linked to 23 assaults since Dec. 19 in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, face potential military action if they persist. The joint statement, signed by major nations, emphasizes the responsibility the Houthis bear for threatening lives and disrupting global commerce. As tensions escalate, Operation Prosperity Guardian is actively protecting shipping lanes, with recent incidents involving U.S. helicopters retaliating against Houthi attacks, escalating concerns about a broader regional conflict.

The temporary closure of Iceland's iconic Blue Lagoon, initiated after the Reykjanes peninsula earthquake in November, faces an extended shutdown until January 5, as per the company's website. Despite a partial reopening on December 17, a volcanic eruption at Sundhnúkagigar forced closure again on December 19. The financial toll is significant, with estimated losses reaching between ISK 4 and 4.5 billion due to the prolonged closure. This setback underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the popular attraction, emphasizing the economic impact on both the company and the region. For more details, refer to the article on Iceland Monitor.

The perpetrators behind the deadly double bombing in Kerman, Iran are unknown. However, the attack that killed scores of civilians at a memorial risks igniting a regional war. Iran blamed Israel, vowing to retaliate. The US suspects ISIS or Sunni extremists. But it doesn't fit previous patterns by the MEK rebel group and Israel. Those focused on targeted killings, not indiscriminate civilian bombings. As Iran vows revenge, recent attacks on shipping and assassinations make miscalculation likely. With Israeli politics pressuring retaliation, the US has intervened to prevent preemptive Israeli attacks. But domestic politics may override foreign pressure. The Kerman bombing makes diplomatic solutions more difficult, risking an escalating regional conflict.

Divya Pahuja, a 27-year-old model who recently got bail after seven years in connection with a gangster's alleged fake encounter, was found shot dead in a Gurugram hotel. Pahuja's association with the underworld began in 2016, leading to her arrest. Despite being granted bail in June 2023, her life took a tragic turn as she was discovered dead under unclear circumstances. Three individuals, including the hotel owner, were arrested while trying to dispose of her body. The police are investigating, and Pahuja's family suspects a conspiracy involving the gangster's relatives. The case raises questions about her safety and the events leading to her demise.

A pervasive coldwave grips North India as dense fog disrupts flights at Delhi airport. The India Meteorological Department reports chilling temperatures across regions. In Delhi, Safdarjung records a bone-chilling 5°C, while Palam registers 7°C. Uttar Pradesh experiences frigid conditions with Bareilly at 8°C, Lucknow at 9°C, Prayagraj at 10°C, and Varanasi at 10°C. Rajasthan faces extreme cold with Bikaner at 7°C, Jaisalmer at 8°C, Kota at 9°C, and Jaipur at 9°C. Bihar encounters icy temperatures, with Gaya and Purnea at 8°C and Patna at 10°C. The coldwave prompts school closures in Noida and Greater Noida. The weather department anticipates a gradual rise in minimum temperatures over the next few days in East and Central India.