The Indian Mission in Warsaw shared captivating snapshots of the Kerala Association of Poland's vibrant Onam 2023 celebration. Held in Warsaw on August 26th, the event, aptly named "Pan India One," resonated with grandeur. The gathering united members of the Indian diaspora and Polish friends, offering them a glimpse into India's rich cultural tapestry through traditional music and dances from the state of Kerala. The festivities were further enriched by the indulgence in the delectable Onam feast, the renowned Ona Sadya, treating attendees to a taste of traditional Kerala cuisine. [photo courtesy: @IndiainPoland]

A rare Blue Super Full Moon in Pisces will illuminate the night sky on Thursday morning, representing a pivotal moment of change and opportunity. Occurring just once per decade, this astrological phenomenon appears bigger and brighter. In spiritual Pisces, the last zodiac sign, this moon carries extra significance as a time to reassess life and finances, turn a corner in job prospects, or evolve relationships. Pisces' compassion makes this an ideal moment for forgiveness, lowering stress and boosting health. Each zodiac sign has its own meaning in this lunar event. Discover what the Super Blue Moon in Pisces has in store for you and how it will impact your horoscope when you read more.

A Pew Research Centre survey published on Tuesday found that India holds a broadly favourable global image, with 46% of adults in 23 countries viewing the country positively. The study comes as India prepares to host the G20 Summit. While 34% held unfavourable views of India, it scored higher positive perceptions overall. However, global confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi was mixed - while remaining popular domestically, 37% of respondents in 12 countries said they have confidence in PM Modi, while 40% did not. According to the survey, India enjoys largely positive perceptions worldwide, but views on its leadership remain divided ahead of its G20 presidency.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan's residence in Mumbai on Wednesday. Banerjee, who was in the city for an opposition meeting, fondly referred to Bachchan as 'Bharat Ratna', saying he is the highest honour for India. She received a warm welcome from Bachchan, his wife Jaya and the family. Banerjee expressed admiration for the Bachchans, calling them the number one family in India for their film contributions. She also extended invitations to Amitabh Bachchan for the Durga Puja festivities and Kolkata Film Festival. Last year, Banerjee had advocated for Bachchan to be awarded the Bharat Ratna at the film festival.

Indian Ambassador Reenat Sandhu hosted a 22-member delegation from Maharashtra's state legislature at the India House in The Hague this week. Led by Deputy Chairperson Dr. Neelam Gorhe, the delegation included Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and Assembly. In her address, Ambassador Sandhu highlighted strong India-Netherlands ties, especially cooperation between Maharashtra and Netherlands in sectors like agriculture, healthcare and environment. Expert Dutch speakers like municipal councillor Prachee van Brandenburg gave an overview of the Dutch political system and farming practices. 

In a significant embarrassment for host Pakistan, the Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023 match on Wednesday witnessed nearly empty stands at Multan stadium. Despite Pakistan batting first, the Multan International Cricket Stadium had sparsely occupied stands, denting PCB's co-hosting aspirations. The contrast to expectations for a high-profile home match was stark. While heat might have played a role, online trolls targeted PCB and questioned splitting the Asia Cup from UAE. The turnout, or lack thereof, casts doubt on the move's justification.

The Indian Consul in Edinburgh participated in Raksha Bandhan celebrations held at the Edinburgh Hindu Mandir on 27 August, along with Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and Member of Scottish Parliament Deidre Brock. Organised by the UK and Scotland Hindu Foundation and the Hindu Mandir, the event saw the leaders congregate for the Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The Indian Consul congratulated the organisers and conveyed his appreciation to the UK Defence Forces, Police Scotland and Fire Services. The participation of officials at the celebration reflects the strong cultural ties between India and Scotland. (Pic courtesy: @IndiaInScotland on X)

The Indian Diaspora UK (IDUK) group has marked its first anniversary this week after an extraordinary year of growth. Within just one year since starting out with the vision to unite the British Indian community, IDUK has brought together over 5,000 enthusiastic participants across 12 vibrant events celebrating Indian culture and heritage in the UK. From festivals to gatherings showcasing Indian traditions, IDUK has succeeded in fostering a sense of belonging and preserving cultural ties among the diaspora. Having blossomed into a thriving hub bringing people together around Indian heritage within a short span, IDUK's remarkable journey over the past year highlights the community's resonance with its efforts to nurture cultural links.

An Indian Army contingent, comprising 137 personnel, has embarked on "Exercise BRIGHT STAR- 23," a multinational joint military exercise taking place at Egypt's Mohammed Naguib Military Base from August 31 to September 14, 2023. Led by US CENTCOM and the Egyptian Army, this exercise was originally conceived during the Camp David Accord of 1977 and has evolved to include 34 countries this year. It marks the first-ever participation of the Indian Armed Forces with 549 personnel, representing the Indian Army's 23 JAT Battalion. Notably, it's the largest-ever joint military drill in the Middle East & North Africa, highlighting India's pivotal role in fostering global peace through collaborative defense efforts.

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan visited Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district before his film "Jawan" release. Arriving late Tuesday, he offered prayers to the Goddess and departed using the Tarakote route. A video circulated on social media showed him in a hooded blue jacket, accompanied by shrine board officials, police, and his staff. This marks his second visit in nine months; his prior visit was in December 2022 before "Pathaan" release. The actor's devotion and film promotions intertwine as he seeks blessings amidst the anticipation of his much-awaited movie. [courtesy: SonuK57]