Global Pulse

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  • Bollywood star Sunny Deol wishes ‘little brother’ Bobby Deol on his birthday

    Bollywood star Sunny Deol wishes ‘little brother’ Bobby Deol on his birthday

    In a poignant display of fraternal affection, Bollywood luminary Sunny Deol broke his social media hiatus to commemorate younger brother Bobby Deol’s birthday with a heartfelt Instagram tribute. The emotionally charged post, featuring nostalgic photographs of the siblings together, carried the caption: “Happy Birthday My Little Brother LORD BOBBY” – acknowledging Bobby’s popular fan-given moniker.

    This digital gesture holds profound significance as it represents Sunny’s first public acknowledgment of Bobby since the family’s tragic loss of patriarch Dharmendra in December 2025. The veteran actor’s passing had evidently prompted a period of mourning and withdrawal from public engagements for the Deol family.

    The entertainment industry rallied in celebration of Bobby’s career renaissance, with colleagues including Kajol, Shilpa Shetty, and Suniel Shetty adding their congratulations across various platforms. Bobby’s remarkable trajectory spans three decades, beginning with his 1990s romantic lead debut in ‘Barsaat’ and progressing through iconic performances in ‘Gupt: The Hidden Truth,’ ‘Soldier,’ and ‘Ajnabee.’

    After experiencing professional fluctuations, Bobby staged an impressive comeback through projects like ‘Apne’ and the ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’ franchise. His career resurgence reached new heights with 2023’s blockbuster ‘Animal’ alongside Ranbir Kapoor, followed by critically acclaimed performances in the ‘Aashram’ series and ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood.’

    Looking ahead, the actor is set to appear in Thalapathy Vijay’s anticipated project ‘Jana Nayagan,’ though production timelines remain undisclosed. This familial celebration underscores the enduring bonds within Bollywood’s premier acting dynasty during their period of collective healing.

  • Greece probes biscuit factory fire as fifth victim found

    Greece probes biscuit factory fire as fifth victim found

    Greek authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into a devastating factory fire that killed five female workers in one of the country’s most severe industrial accidents in recent years. The tragedy occurred at the Violanta biscuit manufacturing facility located near Trikala, approximately 245 kilometers northwest of Athens, where an early Monday explosion ignited a blaze that completely destroyed an entire section of the plant.

    Security cameras in the vicinity captured the moment of the explosion, providing crucial evidence for investigators. Civil Protection Minister Giannis Kefalogiannis stated that authorities expected to develop an initial understanding of the fire’s causes imminently, emphasizing that the case would be thoroughly investigated.

    The victims, all women who had chosen night shift work to spend daytime hours with their children, were recovered in stages due to persistent fire pockets that hampered rescue operations. Four bodies were located shortly after the blast, while the fifth victim was only discovered on Tuesday morning.

    Local communities surrounding Trikala, which supply much of the factory’s workforce, have been deeply affected by the tragedy. The company asserted in an official statement that it strictly adheres to safety protocols and procedures, expressing grief over the loss of their employees while pledging full cooperation with investigating authorities.

    This incident marks one of Greece’s deadliest industrial accidents in decades, raising concerns about workplace safety standards. A local trade union revealed it had never been permitted to inspect the burned facility, highlighting potential oversight issues. According to the federation of technical company employees, over 200 people died in work-related accidents throughout 2025.

    The Violanta plant in Trikala, the company’s flagship facility, produced approximately 12,500 tonnes of biscuits, cookies, and wafers annually. The brand has experienced significant growth in the Greek market with substantial retail presence and exports to nearly 40 countries worldwide.

  • North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan

    North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan

    In a provocative military demonstration, North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan on Tuesday, according to confirmations from both Japanese and South Korean defense authorities. The launch represents Pyongyang’s second weapons test this month, occurring just one day after a senior U.S. defense official praised South Korea as a “model ally” during high-level talks in Seoul.

    Defense analysts indicate this latest provocation continues North Korea’s pattern of intensified weapons testing, which has dramatically increased in recent years. These tests serve multiple strategic objectives: enhancing precision strike capabilities, challenging U.S. and South Korean security interests, and validating weapons systems before potential export to key ally Russia.

    The Japanese Coast Guard, acting on defense ministry information, reported detecting two ballistic missiles fired from North Korean territory. Japanese media confirmed the projectiles landed outside the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Simultaneously, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff documented several missiles launched toward what Seoul identifies as the East Sea.

    This show of force occurs amid heightened regional tensions. Just last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un condemned South Korea’s efforts to develop nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. assistance as a direct security threat requiring countermeasures. The timing also coincides with Pyongyang’s preparation for its first ruling party congress in five years, an event that typically prompts increased military posturing to reinforce internal discipline and regime unity.

    Professor Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies suggested the launch serves dual purposes: “With the party congress approaching, the latest launch appears intended to heighten tensions to reinforce internal discipline and consolidate regime unity. The timing may also be a response to Colby’s visit” to the peninsula.

    The ongoing military developments occur against a complex geopolitical backdrop. North Korea has reportedly dispatched thousands of troops to support Russia’s operations in Ukraine, according to Western intelligence assessments. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Washington and Pyongyang remain stalled since the collapse of the 2019 Hanoi summit over denuclearization terms.

  • Bollywood actor Kamaal R Khan sent to judicial custody in Mumbai

    Bollywood actor Kamaal R Khan sent to judicial custody in Mumbai

    Mumbai’s Andheri Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court has ordered judicial custody for Bollywood actor and self-styled film critic Kamaal R Khan following his alleged involvement in a public firearm discharge incident. The ruling came Tuesday as Khan’s police custody period concluded, with judicial authorities now overseeing his detention while investigations continue.

    The case centers around an alleged shooting event in Mumbai’s Oshiwara neighborhood, where authorities responded to reports of gunfire in a residential complex. Mumbai Police investigators utilized CCTV footage analysis and witness testimonies to establish their preliminary findings. During questioning, Khan reportedly acknowledged ownership of the licensed firearm allegedly involved in the incident, though he disputes the specific allegations.

    Legal representative Nagesh Mishra, advocating for Khan, has characterized the case as politically motivated. “The prosecution’s ballistic claims are physically implausible,” Mishra asserted. “They allege firing occurred at 400 meters distance with a weapon possessing maximum 20-meter capacity. This discrepancy, combined with industry rivalries influencing the investigation, suggests deliberate fabrication.”

    The judicial system will determine subsequent hearing dates as forensic examination of evidence proceeds. Khan remains detained pending further investigation into potential weapons misconduct violations and public endangerment charges.

  • Central division of Heilongjiang Border Sports Games opens

    Central division of Heilongjiang Border Sports Games opens

    The central division of the 2026 Heilongjiang Border Sports Games commenced on Friday atop the frozen expanse of Xiuen Lake in Jiejinkou Hezhe Ethnic Town, Tongjiang City. This event forms a crucial segment of the broader Heilongjiang Ice and Snow Sports Super League, which is structured into eastern, central, and northern divisional competitions.

    The opening ceremony in Tongjiang drew six competing teams representing border regions including Tongjiang, Fuyuan City, Raohe County, Suibin County, Luobei County, and Jiayin County. The games uniquely blend competitive athleticism with cultural celebration, featuring a diverse program of activities.

    Competitions include popular community-based winter sports like snow soccer alongside traditional ethnic games that preserve local heritage. Notable traditional events featured deer hairball, a game with deep cultural roots, snow rabbit hunting simulations, and precision archery contests. These activities showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the region’s Hezhe ethnic community while promoting winter sports participation.

    The sporting festival will continue through February and March with additional competitions scheduled in Mishan and Mohe, where teams from other border areas of Heilongjiang province will form delegations to participate in the remaining divisional events of the league.

  • Old Trafford to Stars Golf League: Dwight Yorke embraces golf’s new act in Dubai

    Old Trafford to Stars Golf League: Dwight Yorke embraces golf’s new act in Dubai

    Dubai-based football icon Dwight Yorke is embarking on an exciting new chapter in his athletic career, trading the iconic football pitches of Old Trafford and Camp Nou for the pristine fairways of elite golf competition. The Trinidadian Manchester United legend is preparing to compete in the groundbreaking Stars Golf League (SGL), an innovative franchise-based tournament launching at The Els Club Dubai from March 25-28 with a $1 million prize purse at stake.

    Yorke’s transition from football glory to golf passion represents a remarkable athletic evolution. Since retiring from professional football, the former striker has dedicated himself to mastering golf at Dubai Creek Resort, a venue he now considers his home training ground. His dedication has culminated in this prestigious invitation to compete alongside an extraordinary roster of sporting legends including former teammate Ryan Giggs, Dutch football great Ruud Gullit, golf royalty Ernie Els and Colin Montgomerie, and cricket superstars AB de Villiers and Yuvraj Singh.

    The Stars Golf League breaks from traditional golf formats by creating a unique team-based competition that brings together legends from multiple sports disciplines, top women professionals, and global sports icons. This innovative approach aims to create unprecedented fan engagement while showcasing elite athletes in a fresh competitive environment.

    Yorke expressed particular enthusiasm for the camaraderie and competitive spirit that the tournament promises. ‘I’m really looking forward to the camaraderie and the competitiveness between the ex-players,’ Yorke stated. ‘It’s always nice to challenge yourself and see if you can come out on top. The Stars Golf League is a great occasion, and I look forward to being part of it.’

    Despite his newfound passion for golf, Yorke maintains that football remains his primary sporting love, though he approaches golf with serious dedication and developed skill. His recent participation in the Pro-Am at the prestigious Dubai Invitational provided valuable experience playing alongside professionals like Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, further preparing him for this new competitive challenge.

    The Stars Golf League represents not just another tournament but a reimagining of how golf can bring together diverse sporting legends in a format that emphasizes both competition and cross-sport camaraderie, with Yorke’s journey from football stardom to golf competition serving as a central narrative to this innovative sporting event.

  • Nigeria president ‘in great shape’ after falling at Turkey reception

    Nigeria president ‘in great shape’ after falling at Turkey reception

    Nigerian President Bola Tinubu experienced a stumble during an official welcome ceremony in Ankara, Turkey, while being received by his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The incident occurred as the 73-year-old leader was walking past a line of soldiers and dignitaries, captured on the Turkish president’s official X account footage.

    The video shows President Tinubu momentarily losing his balance and falling to the ground before the scene cuts to an aerial view. Within 45 seconds, attendants assisted the Nigerian leader, and he subsequently appeared unharmed alongside President Erdogan. According to presidential aide Sunday Dare, Tinubu proceeded with scheduled bilateral meetings without interruption following the incident.

    This marks the second public stumble for President Tinubu within approximately 18 months, following a similar occurrence in June 2024. On that previous occasion, the president humorously addressed the incident by suggesting observers might have mistaken his fall for a popular dance move. His office had then characterized it as a “mild misstep.”

    The current visit to Turkey represents a diplomatic effort to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. In response to circulating social media clips of the stumble, Dare issued a statement on X emphasizing that “President Tinubu [is] in great shape as state visit proceeds smoothly” and confirming the continuation of all planned diplomatic engagements.

    Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023 following electoral victory, has previously received sympathy from across the political spectrum for such incidents, with opposition figure Atiku Abubakar previously describing a similar event as “unfortunate” and senator Shehu Sani noting it demonstrated the president’s shared humanity.

  • Indian rupee crosses Rs25 against UAE dirham: Factors of decline, what it means

    Indian rupee crosses Rs25 against UAE dirham: Factors of decline, what it means

    The Indian rupee has breached the psychologically significant threshold of 25 against the UAE dirham, reflecting its persistent weakness against the US dollar which recently approached record lows of 92 rupees. This depreciation, impacting millions of UAE-based Indians through remittances, education costs, and import expenses, stems from multiple converging factors rather than a single catalytic event.

    Currency markets witnessed heightened volatility on January 27, 2026, with the rupee experiencing slight firming as the dollar softened and trade-deal optimism provided temporary relief. However, this minor recovery followed fresh historic lows, underscoring the currency’s underlying vulnerability.

    Three primary drivers are propelling the rupee’s decline. First, elevated US interest rates and Federal Reserve policy signals have strengthened the dollar, drawing global capital away from emerging markets like India. Second, sustained foreign portfolio outflows have created tangible dollar demand as international investors exit Indian assets. Third, importers’ anticipatory dollar buying—particularly for crude oil, electronics, and gold—has created self-fulfilling downward pressure, while exporters withhold dollar conversions hoping for further rupee depreciation.

    The UAE dirham’s peg to the dollar means the rupee-dirham exchange rate directly mirrors rupee-dollar movements, making Gulf transactions more expensive for Indian expatriates. Despite market anxieties, Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra has clarified that the central bank focuses on maintaining orderly market conditions rather than defending specific exchange rate levels, emphasizing that currency strength shouldn’t be judged solely by exchange rates but by broader economic fundamentals.

    Potential stabilizers include moderating dollar strength, progress on India-EU trade agreements, and the RBI’s smoothing interventions. For households, the weak rupee presents a dual reality: enhanced remittance value for those sending money to India, but increased costs for imported goods, international education, and travel.

    The rupee’s trajectory remains contingent on global dollar dynamics, foreign investment flows, and trade imbalances, with the RBI positioned to prevent disorderly movements rather than reverse the currency’s broader trend.

  • Foreign trade fuels Xinjiang’s regional GDP growth during 14th Five-Year Plan

    Foreign trade fuels Xinjiang’s regional GDP growth during 14th Five-Year Plan

    Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has demonstrated remarkable economic performance throughout China’s 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), with foreign trade emerging as a primary growth engine. Regional Chairman Erkin Tuniyaz revealed these findings during his government work report presented at the annual legislative session in Urumqi this week.

    The northwestern region achieved an impressive 5.9% average annual GDP growth, significantly propelled by a staggering 28.5% yearly expansion in foreign trade volume. By 2025, Xinjiang’s total economic output reached 2.15 trillion yuan ($309.03 billion), representing a 5.5% year-on-year increase.

    Notably, disposable income growth showed robust performance across urban and rural communities. Urban per capita disposable income rose by 5.3%, while rural residents experienced a more substantial 7% increase. For the first time in the region’s history, rural disposable income surpassed the 20,000 yuan threshold, reaching 20,793 yuan.

    Strategic industrial development played a crucial role in this economic transformation. Xinjiang has successfully cultivated characteristic and competitive industries, with major clusters emerging in multiple sectors including oil and gas production and processing, clean coal utilization, innovative power systems, environmentally conscious mining, and strategic emerging industries.

    The region maintained its national leadership in oil and gas equivalent output throughout the five-year period, achieving a cumulative production of 320 million metric tons. Simultaneously, Xinjiang’s energy transition advanced significantly with installed new-energy capacity growing to 167 million kilowatts—accounting for nearly two-thirds of the region’s total power capacity. Outbound electricity transmission increased at an average annual rate of 3.6%, with green electricity constituting over 30% of total exports.

  • Carney denies walking back Davos speech in phone call with Trump

    Carney denies walking back Davos speech in phone call with Trump

    Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has publicly reaffirmed the substance of his critical Davos speech addressing global power dynamics, despite claims from Trump administration officials that he had retracted his statements. The diplomatic friction emerged after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent asserted that Carney had “aggressively walked back” his remarks during a phone conversation with President Donald Trump.

    In a Tuesday press briefing in Ottawa, Carney provided his account of the Monday phone exchange, clarifying that it was Trump who initiated the call. The Prime Minister characterized their discussion as a “very good conversation” covering multiple bilateral issues including Ukraine, Venezuela, Arctic security matters, and Canada’s recent trade arrangement with China.

    The controversy stems from Carney’s World Economic Forum address, where he indirectly criticized Trump’s approach to international relations, suggesting it had caused a “rupture” in the postwar global order. Trump responded during his own Davos appearance with a stark reminder of Canada’s economic dependence on the United States.

    Carney explained that his speech articulated Canada’s recognition of shifting U.S. trade policy and the nation’s adaptive response. He maintained that the President understood Canada’s position despite the subsequent tension.

    The dispute escalated when Bessent used a Fox News interview to criticize Canada’s trade agreement with China, questioning Carney’s judgment and emphasizing the disproportionate importance of north-south trade relations over east-west alternatives. The Treasury Secretary suggested Carney should prioritize Canadian interests over “globalist agendas.”

    This exchange occurred against the backdrop of Trump’s threat to impose 100% tariffs on Canadian goods if China uses Canada to circumvent U.S. tariffs. The recently announced Canada-China agreement will reduce Canadian canola oil tariffs from 85% to 15% by March, while Canada will apply most-favored-nation rates of 6.1% to limited Chinese electric vehicle imports, down from 100%.

    Carney denied pursuing a comprehensive free-trade deal with China, stating Canada has “never” considered such an arrangement. He characterized Trump’s tariff threats as negotiation tactics ahead of the upcoming USMCA review, noting that “the president is a strong negotiator” and such comments should be viewed within broader negotiation context.