Riya Writes

During natural disaster, heroes are defined by calmness and clarity of purpose. This week, physicians at a hospital in Kamchatka, Russia, redefined bravery by proceeding with surgery when a devastating earthquake struck the area. The earthquake, which shook the peninsula, tried the nerves of every institution, but within one operating theatre, time was frozen. While walls shook and ground heaved beneath them, the surgical team remained laser-like in their concentration on saving the life before them. "Stopping wasn't an option," one nurse, interviewed later, said. "We needed to rely on our instincts, our training, and each other." The quake interrupted electricity in some areas of the building, but emergency systems kicked in smoothly. Surgeons changed their stance, readjusted their equipment, and kept working as aftershocks swept through. Social media erupted in admiration for the video shots that came out of the hospital, illustrating the surgical team staying...

  New Delhi, July 29, 2025 — Rashtrapati Bhavan was host to a distinguished diplomatic affair as Indian President Droupadi Murmu received credentials from four foreign envoys , including Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner, Pradeepa Mahishini Colonne . The event reflects India’s active diplomatic agenda and its expanding network of strategic international partners.  A Diplomatic Veteran Returns High Commissioner Mahishini Colonne brings with her years of diplomatic experience, having earlier served as Sri Lanka’s Deputy High Commissioner to India. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time when Indo-Sri Lankan relations are witnessing renewed energy — from shared economic interests to strategic partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region. Her presentation of credentials symbolized the formal recognition by the Indian state and sets the tone for high-level bilateral engagements to follow.  Envoys from Timor-Leste, Gabon & Dominican Republic Join the Ceremony Also presenting ...

  Delhi, ICW 2025 – Actress Janhvi Kapoor has never shied away from the spotlight, but her latest appearance at India Couture Week 2025 has elevated her fashion status to new heights. Draped in a pastel lehenga by Jayanti Reddy , Janhvi walked the ramp with a quiet confidence, embodying the essence of modern-day royalty . The Design: A Modern Ode to Tradition The pastel blush lehenga combined classical Indian embroidery techniques with a contemporary silhouette . Jayanti Reddy’s design reimagined bridalwear by introducing saree-inspired pleats , a fish-cut finish , and a cold-shoulder blouse adorned with pearl chains , mimicking jewelry without the need for added accessories. This innovative blend made the outfit not just visually stunning but a representation of how heritage can evolve to meet today’s fashion sensibilities . Minimal Makeup, Maximum Impact Keeping the look clean yet impactful, Janhvi’s makeup embraced rosy tones , highlighted cheekbones , and nude glossy ...

 In a significant victory for India’s counter-terror operations, the Indian Army on Sunday successfully eliminated three heavily armed terrorists in Srinagar during Operation Mahadev . Among the neutralized was the mastermind behind the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that shook the nation in April 2025. The gunfight broke out near Dara in the Lidwas area , adjacent to the Dachigam National Park , a dense forested terrain often used by militants as a transit route. Based on actionable intelligence, elite teams from the Indian Army, J&K Police, and CRPF launched a precision operation early in the morning. A heavy exchange of fire ensued, leading to the neutralization of three Pakistani terrorists believed to be affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its proxy group, The Resistance Front (TRF). The Key Target: Hashim Musa One of the slain militants has been identified as Hashim Musa alias Suleiman Shah , the chief planner of the April 22 Pahalgam attack , which killed 26 ci...

  Nagpur’s 19-year-old chess prodigy, Divya Deshmukh, has etched her name in history by becoming India’s 88th Grandmaster and clinching the prestigious FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025. Her inspiring win marks a watershed moment in Indian chess, particularly in women’s representation on the global stage. Divya's World Cup journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From the early rounds to the finals, she displayed steely nerves, tactical brilliance, and deep strategic preparation. Her final victory was not just a win on the board, but a triumph of years of hard work, resilience, and passion. Becoming a Grandmaster at just 19 is no easy feat. With this, she joins the elite list of Indian Grandmasters and stands as a symbol of the growing chess revolution in India, particularly among young women. Her victory in the World Cup elevates her stature internationally, and she is now a clear title contender in future Women’s World Championships. Chess Federation officials and fellow playe...

 In a significant move reflecting its enduring commitment to global humanitarian causes, the United Arab Emirates has resumed its humanitarian air bridge operations over the Gaza Strip. This initiative, temporarily paused due to operational challenges and regional tensions, marks a renewed effort by the UAE to provide essential relief to Palestinians caught in the ongoing crisis. Launched initially in late 2023, the UAE’s humanitarian air bridge was a vital conduit for delivering food, medical supplies, and emergency relief materials to Gaza’s civilian population. With hospitals overwhelmed and infrastructure crippled by the prolonged conflict, the reactivation of this aerial supply chain comes as a beacon of hope for thousands in urgent need. According to official sources, the resumed missions will see cargo planes airlifting tons of critical aid from Abu Dhabi directly into designated drop zones near Rafah and through coordination with international humanitarian agencies on the...

  Thoothukudi, July 26, 2025 In a high-profile visit to Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored his government’s commitment to building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) through regional empowerment. From inaugurating high-tech airport terminals to addressing power and logistics gaps, the ₹4,900 crore project rollout in Thoothukudi reflects a broader strategy of inclusive growth. Diplomatic & Economic Undertones PM Modi, while inaugurating the projects, emphasized Tamil Nadu’s importance in India’s global positioning. Highlighting India’s fast-growing manufacturing sector, he referred to ongoing India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, which he said would benefit Tamil Nadu’s MSMEs, exporters, and youth workforce . “The world is placing its trust in India’s manufacturing potential. Tamil Nadu will be at the heart of this global transition,” the Prime Minister said. Tuticorin Airport: A Civil Aviation Milestone The new airport terminal at Tuticor...

 Congress leader Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday made a rare appearance at a protest held by opposition MPs inside the Parliament House complex, lending her support to a growing political outcry over the SIR (State of Internal Representation) issue. The INDIA bloc, an alliance of opposition parties, staged the demonstration as a unified stand against what they term a threat to fair democratic representation. The protest was conducted peacefully near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, with MPs holding placards and voicing their concerns over the implications of the SIR in Bihar. According to opposition parties, the SIR could potentially alter voter representation and reduce the democratic weight of marginalized communities. Sonia Gandhi’s participation was seen as a message to both the ruling government and her own alliance partners — emphasizing solidarity, seriousness, and a readiness to escalate the matter both inside and outside the Parliament. Her presence has already sparked widespread...

  New Delhi, July 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off on a pivotal diplomatic journey to the United Kingdom and the Maldives , underscoring India’s proactive foreign policy and strategic outreach. The four-day visit, spanning July 23 to 26 , aims to strengthen both bilateral and multilateral ties with two critical partners—one a global economic power, the other a key neighbor in the Indian Ocean. The Prime Minister’s first stop will be in London, UK , where he will engage in official meetings from July 23 to 24 . The visit is expected to revitalize the India-UK relationship, particularly in light of ongoing trade negotiations and a shared interest in technology, education, and green energy. PM Modi is also likely to address the Indian community and attend ceremonial events that highlight cultural diplomacy. From there, the Prime Minister will proceed to Malé, Maldives , for a State Visit from July 25 to 26 . This visit comes at a crucial time in the India-Maldives relat...

India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has officially resigned from office, stating that the decision was taken in light of his health condition and the necessity to follow medical advice. The announcement, made late last night, has left the nation in surprise, with political leaders across party lines expressing concern and respect for his personal choice. Dhankhar’s resignation marks an unexpected end to a tenure that, though relatively brief, was noted for its dignity and constitutional propriety. As the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar was known for upholding procedural discipline and encouraging constructive debate in the Upper House of Parliament. In his resignation message, he noted, “The role of Vice President demands undivided attention and energy. At this point, my health must take precedence, and I believe this decision is in the best interest of the office and the country.” Political reactions began pouring in shortly after the announcement. Prime Minister Narendr...

 In a remarkable display of diplomatic agility and global outreach, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has completed a whirlwind two-day tour covering three Eastern European nations and Turkey , solidifying the UAE's status as a proactive and engaged global player. This strategic trip underlines the UAE’s growing interest in deepening economic, political, and energy partnerships with key European and regional allies amid a shifting global order. Countries Visited: While specific nations in Eastern Europe were not named in the initial statement, the UAE leadership has previously shown strong interest in building partnerships in countries like Serbia, Hungary, and Romania , all of which are significant hubs in sectors like food security, logistics, and energy —key focus areas of the UAE's foreign policy. Key Objectives: Economic Cooperation : With global trade routes and energy corridors under stress, the UAE is keen to secure strategic investments and par...

 India’s upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament , commencing July 21, is poised to be one of the most contentious in recent times. With national security and judicial accountability both under the spotlight, the political stakes couldn’t be higher. At the forefront is Operation Sindoor , a major counter-terror effort launched in Jammu & Kashmir. Opposition leaders, including Congress MP Imran Masood , have questioned the government’s silence on the outcome. “We want the government to tell us what was achieved — were the terrorists in Pahalgam eliminated or not?” Masood demanded. Responding to the rising heat, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju assured the Opposition that the Centre is not averse to discussing Operation Sindoor in Parliament. He stressed that such debates must adhere to established parliamentary conventions, a signal that the government is willing to engage — but within limits. Adding fuel to the fire is the growing momentum behind an impeachment motion against Jus...

 In a significant global shift, Dubai has overtaken legacy cities like London, New York, and Singapore to become the No.1 international real estate destination for India’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), according to the 2025 Sotheby’s Global Luxury Survey. This changing trend marks more than just a preference—it’s a reflection of Dubai's growing stature as a magnet for capital, lifestyle, and real estate innovation. Nearly 50% of Dubai’s prime property buyers in 2024 were Indian nationals, pointing to a deep and lasting trust in the city’s offerings. From its tax-friendly policies and high ROI potential to unmatched luxury living and ease of doing business, Dubai offers a compelling case for affluent Indians looking to diversify their global real estate portfolios. As India’s elite pivot away from traditional Western markets, the UAE—especially Dubai—has successfully positioned itself as the new frontier for global wealth migration. For investors, this shift isn’t ju...

Motihari, July 18 — In what is being called a landmark moment for Bihar’s development journey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated and dedicated to the nation projects worth over ₹7,200 crore in Motihari, East Champaran. The visit attracted an overwhelming crowd, with people lining up hours before the event to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister. PM Modi’s Motihari visit underscores the government's focus on revitalizing historically significant yet infrastructure-deprived regions. The projects span critical sectors including housing, road connectivity, irrigation, and clean drinking water. Addressing the public, PM Modi said, "Bihar is not just a land of history and culture; it’s a land of potential. We are committed to converting that potential into progress." Among the inaugurated initiatives were: Rural electrification upgrades under Saubhagya Scheme Housing completions under PMAY-Gramin Expansion of Jal Jeevan Mission to increase dri...

  New Delhi — The central government’s flagship initiative, Swachh Survekshan , culminated in a grand award ceremony led by President Droupadi Murmu , who recognized India's cleanest and most committed urban centres in maintaining sanitation and public hygiene. The event, held at Vigyan Bhawan , awarded 78 cities and towns across various population brackets and introduced a new category called the “Super Swachh League,” meant to honour cities that have won the cleanest city title multiple times. Indore was crowned the first-ever Super League Champion , solidifying its legendary status with an eighth consecutive win .  New Milestones Achieved: The Super Swachh League honors legacy winners like Indore for sustained excellence. The survey has grown exponentially—from 73 cities in 2016 to 4,500+ in 2024–25 . Over 14 crore citizens were actively engaged this year. President Murmu applauded the citizens and urban governance bodies for their efforts in bringing ...

 After years of anticipation, Tesla has officially touched down in India with the inauguration of its first Experience Centre in Mumbai. Situated in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), the 4,000 sq. ft. space marks not just the arrival of a globally admired brand, but the beginning of a transformative shift in India’s electric vehicle (EV) journey. The Tesla Experience Centre isn’t a typical dealership. It serves as a space for potential buyers and EV enthusiasts to engage with Tesla's technology, experience its vehicles firsthand, and understand the brand’s vision for sustainable transportation. The sleek, tech-driven showroom aligns with Tesla's global design language, emphasizing minimalism, innovation, and futuristic appeal. Choosing Mumbai as the launchpad is no coincidence. Known as India’s financial and entrepreneurial capital, the city represents innovation, affluence, and global ambition—values that Tesla embodies. With a rising class of environmentally consciou...

  Saina Nehwal , India’s first woman Olympic badminton medalist, announced her separation from husband  Parupalli Kashyap , putting an end to one of the most celebrated partnerships in Indian sports. The two athletes, who married in 2018 after years of training and competing together, have decided to part ways to focus on their individual well-being. In her Instagram post, Saina described the split as a “mutual and respectful decision,” emphasizing the need for healing and personal growth. The message was met with support and sympathy from fans, fellow athletes, and public figures alike. What added an unexpected twist to the development was Kashyap’s Instagram story, posted just a few hours earlier. The clip featured him enjoying a music festival in the Netherlands, laughing and dancing with friends. The cheerful tone of the story, juxtaposed with the news of their separation, raised eyebrows on social media. Many users speculated whether the post was a sign of emotional dis...

  Bengaluru, India  Indian cinema has lost one of its brightest stars. Veteran actress B. Saroja Devi , fondly known as "Abhinaya Saraswati" and "Kannadada Gili," passed away in Bengaluru, marking the end of a glorious era in Indian film history. She was 86. B. Saroja Devi was not just an actress — she was a phenomenon. With a career spanning over five decades and more than 200 films to her credit, she ruled screens across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam , and Hindi cinema. Her iconic pairing with matinee idols like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) , N.T. Rama Rao , Dr. Rajkumar , and Sivaji Ganesan cemented her position as one of Indian cinema’s most beloved leading ladies. Born in 1937 in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi began her career at the age of 17 and quickly rose to fame for her charm, poise, and strong screen presence. Some of her most celebrated films include Kalyana Parisu , Sasural , Sri Krishnadevaraya , Anbe Vaa , and Enga Veettu Pillai . She had the rare disti...

 In the heart of Indore, a peculiar yet poignant image has emerged — a man walking around his locality wearing a helmet with a CCTV camera mounted on top. Far from a fashion statement or tech gimmick, this improvised gear is a desperate move for self-defense in the face of ongoing threats. The man, involved in a long-standing property dispute, alleges that his neighbors have been harassing and intimidating him for months. Despite multiple complaints to the local police, he says no meaningful action was taken, leaving him exposed and anxious about his safety. “When there’s no one to protect you, you must protect yourself,” he told a local reporter. The helmet-camera setup is meant to record any confrontation or act of aggression, ensuring he has video proof of harassment or violence. Videos of the man’s daily routine — helmet on, camera rolling — have started circulating widely, sparking debate. Some viewers applaud his ingenuity, calling him a symbol of resilience. Others questi...

 In a moment that bridged continents and cultures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed in Brasilia with a rare musical fusion that stunned audiences and dignitaries alike. The welcome ceremony featured the chanting of the ancient Hindu hymn Shiv Tandav Stotra , interwoven with tribal chants from Brazil’s indigenous communities. Performed by native Brazilian artists, the presentation was a unique blend of devotion and nature-centric spirituality. The Shiv Tandav , known for its complex Sanskrit verses and depiction of Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance, merged with the rhythmic calls and traditional sounds used by tribes from the Amazon rainforest. This fusion performance wasn’t just symbolic—it was spiritual diplomacy in action. It reflected how two ancient civilizations, rooted in their love for nature, divinity, and energy, can converge through artistic expression. The performance highlighted respect for India’s spiritual heritage while embracing Brazil’s rich tribal culture. Cul...

 The UAE has officially relaxed Golden Visa norms for Indian citizens, introducing a new nomination-based residency pathway with no investment strings attached. This initiative, already being hailed as a game-changer, requires just a one-time payment of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh) and bypasses the earlier prerequisites of property or business ownership.  The New Nomination-Based Golden Visa – Explained Under this fresh model, residency in the UAE can be secured based on an applicant’s reputation, achievements, or potential contributions . It redefines the traditional criteria by: Removing financial barriers like real estate or business investment Enabling talent-based immigration Streamlining the process through officially licensed facilitators  Eligibility Criteria To be eligible, applicants must: Have clean legal and financial records Pass an integrity and reputation assessment Demonstrate excellence or impact in a domain such as:...

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Trinidad and Tobago took a warm, cultural turn as he attended a traditional dinner hosted by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The event served as a cultural bridge, bringing together Indian traditions and Caribbean vibrance in a single setting. Hosted in Port of Spain, the dinner featured traditional Indian-Caribbean dishes and ceremonial rituals that honored the Indian roots of a significant portion of Trinidad and Tobago’s population. PM Modi’s attendance symbolized India's continued engagement with the Indian diaspora and its importance in the country’s foreign relations. During the dinner, Modi was seen interacting with members of the Indo-Trinidadian community, expressing admiration for their efforts in keeping Indian culture alive across generations. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, respect, and nostalgia, particularly for the shared history of migration and cultural adaptation. The choice of Kamla Persad-Bissessar t...

  Birmingham, UK — July 3, 2025 In the cathedral of English cricket at Edgbaston, Shubman Gill has carved out a throne of his own. With a sublime 168* not out, Gill not only powered India into a dominant position but also dethroned his predecessor Virat Kohli’s long-standing record as the highest Indian scorer at this iconic venue. The symbolic weight of this performance cannot be overstated—Gill didn’t just beat a number, he filled a vacuum left by the legends who once ruled Indian cricket’s narrative. Gill’s Coming-of-Age Knock Gill walked in with pressure mounting after early wickets. England’s seamers tested him with movement, bounce, and relentless discipline. But he stood tall, playing the ball late, using soft hands, and waiting for the loose deliveries. His ability to adapt was on full display: Respecting the good balls. Punishing the bad ones. Keeping the scoreboard ticking with elegant singles and doubles. The innings was not just about strokeplay—it was...

 In a state where custodial violence remains a haunting issue, the death of Ajith Kumar has reignited debates around policing, justice, and political will. The 27-year-old security guard was taken in for questioning in a routine theft investigation—but never came out alive. His family claims he was brutally tortured inside the Thirupuvanam police station, leading to his death within 24 hours. The disturbing visuals and postmortem reports suggested grievous physical assault, including injuries to the chest, limbs, and signs of internal hemorrhaging. The incident, deeply unsettling, has triggered statewide outrage and condemnation. Amid this turmoil, TVK leader Vijay’s visit to Ajith’s family stood out as more than a political gesture. Dressed simply, and with no fanfare, he offered words of comfort and promised to raise their voice in the corridors of power. “Compensation doesn’t bring justice,” Vijay said, echoing the family's refusal to accept monetary relief in exchange for sil...

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Accra on July 2 marks a turning point in India–Ghana ties—and by extension, India’s growing role in Africa. As the first Indian PM to visit Ghana in over 30 years, Modi’s tour aims to reset bilateral engagement with a robust focus on trade, technology, and security cooperation. The visit began with symbolic power— Hare Krishna chants from Ghana’s vibrant spiritual communities welcomed Modi, setting a tone of warmth and shared heritage. But the real weight of this trip lies in the agreements expected to be signed over two days, covering areas like: Critical Minerals : Ghana’s vast reserves of gold, bauxite, and other strategic minerals are of growing interest to India’s tech and renewable energy industries. Digital Public Infrastructure : India is set to collaborate with Ghana on platforms modeled after Aadhaar, UPI, and CoWIN—demonstrating India’s export of digital governance. Health & Vaccine Manufacturing : Ghana, a hub fo...

 Yash, the ever-charismatic star of KGF , turned heads again as he was spotted at Mumbai’s Kalina airport this week, triggering a fashion storm and igniting speculation about the progress of his next big film— Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups . The actor wore a striking sky-blue co-ord set , paired with stylish sunglasses and his signature beard, projecting the image of a man who has just wrapped something significant. Sources say this appearance came right after the final shoot schedule of Toxic , directed by Geetu Mohandas and co-starring Kiara Advani. While the silver shirt and black trousers he wore for the KGF 2 anniversary visit made headlines, this softer, more casual co-ord look subtly hinted at the shift in tone Toxic may bring—an emotional, offbeat story said to challenge stereotypes and redefine genre expectations in Indian cinema. Fans online were quick to spot the change: the intense, brooding Yash of KGF had stepped into a more introspective and artistic space....