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  • Look: Rajkummar Rao, Patralekhaa share first photo of baby girl

    Look: Rajkummar Rao, Patralekhaa share first photo of baby girl

    Bollywood power couple Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa have officially introduced their newborn daughter to the world through a heartfelt social media revelation. On January 18, 2026, the actors shared an intimate photograph on Instagram showcasing their infant’s tiny fingers gently clasping both parents’ hands, accompanied by a deeply personal announcement.

    The caption accompanying the emotional image read: “With folded hands and full hearts, we introduce our greatest blessing,” simultaneously disclosing their daughter’s name as Parvati Paul Rao. This marks the first public glimpse of the child since her birth in November 2025, which coincidentally aligned with the couple’s fourth wedding anniversary on November 15th.

    The birth announcement originally came through a separate social media post where the elated parents expressed: “We are over the moon. God has blessed us with a baby girl. Blessed parents – Patralekhaa and Rajkummar,” further describing their daughter as divinity’s “greatest blessing.”

    The couple’s romantic and professional journey began on the sets of the 2014 film ‘Citylights,’ which marked Patralekhaa’s Bollywood debut. They subsequently solidified their relationship through marriage in November 2021 during an intimate Chandigarh ceremony attended exclusively by close family members.

    Beyond their parental milestones, both actors continue to advance their cinematic careers. Rajkummar recently completed production for ‘Nikam,’ an anticipated biopic chronicling the life of renowned Indian public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. Simultaneously, the couple has embarked on a joint entrepreneurial venture with the establishment of their production company, KAMPA Films.

    The nomenclature KAMPA carries profound sentimental value, derived from combining the initials of their mothers’ names—a thoughtful tribute to the influential matriarchs in their lives. Patralekhaa previously articulated their vision for the venture, stating: “We’ve always believed in the power of storytelling. With KAMPA, we’re looking forward to sharing these stories with the world.”

  • UAE: DXB maintains its position as busiest international airport in 2025

    UAE: DXB maintains its position as busiest international airport in 2025

    Dubai International Airport (DXB) has solidified its status as the world’s premier gateway for international travel, maintaining its top ranking for the third consecutive year according to aviation analytics firm OAG. The hub recorded 62.4 million seats in 2025, representing a remarkable 16% growth since 2019 and a 4% year-on-year increase in capacity.

    While Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) claimed the overall busiest airport title with 63.1 million seats combining both domestic and international traffic, Dubai’s exclusive focus on international passengers secured its specialized dominance. The airport even outperformed Atlanta during several months of 2025, with CEO Paul Griffiths projecting DXB will surpass 95.3 million passengers by year’s end and break the 100 million threshold by 2027.

    London Heathrow (LHR) trailed significantly in second place with 49.0 million international seats, while Seoul Incheon (ICN) captured third position at 43.0 million seats, signaling a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels. Singapore Changi (SIN) followed closely in fourth with 42.6 million seats.

    The report revealed notable growth patterns across global hubs. Hong Kong International (HKG) demonstrated the most dramatic year-on-year surge at 12%, reaching 38.7 million seats, though still 14% below 2019 capacity. Istanbul Airport emerged as the fastest-growing major hub with a 27% increase since 2019, handling 41.2 million international seats and establishing itself as a rapidly expanding global nexus.

    Regional analysis shows North American and Asian airports dominating the overall busiest rankings due to substantial domestic markets, while European and Middle Eastern hubs maintain strong international specialization. Frankfurt Airport (36.4 million seats) and Doha’s Hamad International (32.7 million seats) rounded out the top ten, with the Qatari hub showing a significant 20% capacity increase compared to 2019 levels.

  • South Africa declares a national disaster over flooding and severe weather

    South Africa declares a national disaster over flooding and severe weather

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa — The South African government has escalated its response to devastating weather conditions by declaring a national state of disaster following torrential rains that have triggered severe flooding across multiple provinces. The official declaration, announced Sunday through the National Disaster Management Center, enables enhanced federal coordination of emergency response efforts.

    The catastrophic weather system has resulted in at least 30 confirmed fatalities, primarily concentrated in the northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Beyond the tragic loss of life, the flooding has inflicted substantial damage to infrastructure, destroying thousands of residential properties and crippling transportation networks by washing away critical roads and bridges.

    This weather emergency extends beyond South Africa’s borders, with neighboring Mozambique and Zimbabwe experiencing similar devastating conditions. Collectively, these three nations have reported over 100 weather-related fatalities since the onset of unusually heavy rainfall patterns beginning late last year.

    The flooding’s impact has reached South Africa’s conservation areas, forcing the complete closure of Kruger National Park. Emergency personnel executed the evacuation of hundreds of tourists and staff members from flooded campsites to safer areas within the park’s perimeter.

    Limpopo Province Premier Stan Mathabatha provided preliminary damage assessments indicating approximately $240 million in infrastructure losses within that province alone, noting that numerous structures had been completely destroyed by floodwaters.

    This disaster represents the latest in a series of severe flooding events to strike South Africa in recent years. The Eastern Cape province witnessed over 100 fatalities last year, while the 2022 KwaZulu-Natal flooding claimed more than 400 lives, highlighting the nation’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events.

  • Syrian forces seize major oil, gas fields in eastern Syria, security sources say

    Syrian forces seize major oil, gas fields in eastern Syria, security sources say

    In a significant military advancement, Syrian government forces have captured strategic energy assets in eastern Syria, including the nation’s largest oil field and a major gas facility, according to three security sources. The operations occurred on Sunday as part of an ongoing offensive into territories controlled by Kurdish-led factions.

    The Omar oil field, Syria’s most substantial petroleum asset, and the Conoco natural gas field are now under Syrian army control. This development represents a critical shift in the regional balance of power and control over vital economic resources. The military campaign continues despite diplomatic appeals from the United States to halt advances into northern Syrian towns under Kurdish administration.

    Earlier operations saw Syrian state media announce the capture of the northern city of Tabqa along with its adjacent dam infrastructure. Additionally, forces secured the major Freedom dam (formerly known as the Baath dam), located west of Raqqa. These strategic hydroelectric assets further consolidate government control over essential infrastructure and resources.

    The military actions occur within the complex geopolitical landscape of Syria’s ongoing conflict, where multiple international and regional actors maintain competing interests. The seizure of energy-producing regions significantly enhances the Syrian government’s economic prospects while potentially altering dynamics with Kurdish autonomous administrations in the northeast.

  • Beijing activates emergency responses to ensure safety during snowstorm

    Beijing activates emergency responses to ensure safety during snowstorm

    Beijing authorities initiated comprehensive emergency protocols on January 17-18 following the issuance of blue alerts for snowstorms across multiple districts. The municipal transportation department activated specialized response measures to maintain traffic safety and operational order during the severe weather conditions.

    Citywide mobilization saw transportation personnel and residents collaborating in extensive snow-clearing operations, responding to government directives aimed at minimizing disruption. The coordinated effort focused on maintaining critical infrastructure functionality and ensuring public mobility despite challenging winter conditions.

    Emergency response teams deployed across the capital implemented real-time monitoring systems to track weather developments and coordinate resource allocation. The multi-district alert system triggered standardized protocols for road maintenance, public transportation adjustments, and safety communications to the metropolitan population of over 21 million residents.

    The blue alert designation represents the lowest level in China’s four-tier color-coded weather warning system, indicating anticipated snowfall accumulation between 4-8 millimeters within 12 hours. Despite this classification as the least severe warning tier, authorities implemented full-scale preparedness measures reflecting the city’s commitment to proactive winter weather management.

    Historical weather patterns show Beijing typically experiences moderate January snowfall, though the timing and intensity of this particular storm required coordinated municipal response. The city’s refined emergency procedures demonstrate evolved capabilities in urban weather crisis management developed through previous winter season experiences.

  • Pakistan shopping mall fire kills six people

    Pakistan shopping mall fire kills six people

    A catastrophic fire has ravaged the multi-story Gul Plaza shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, resulting in at least six confirmed fatalities and over twenty injuries. The blaze, which ignited on Saturday, rapidly consumed the entire structure containing 1,200 retail stores across 8,000 square meters of commercial space.

    Emergency responders faced extreme challenges as sections of the building collapsed during firefighting operations, severely hampering rescue efforts. Among the deceased is one frontline firefighter, with authorities expressing grave concerns that additional victims may remain trapped within the unstable wreckage.

    Hassan Khan, spokesperson for Rescue 1122 Karachi, identified highly flammable inventory—including plastic foam materials, textiles, carpets, and perfume products—as significant factors in the fire’s rapid escalation through multiple floors. Despite deployment of twenty fire engines, the structural integrity of the building continues to deteriorate, presenting ongoing dangers to first responders.

    Dr. Summaiya Syed, Karachi’s police surgeon, confirmed that six bodies and multiple injured persons have been transported to Civil Hospital, with officials activating mass disaster protocols to manage the crisis.

    Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has extended official condolences while ordering the provincial government of Sindh to conduct immediate safety reviews of all commercial and residential structures throughout the region. The investigation into the fire’s origin and the building’s compliance with safety regulations remains ongoing as smoke continues to emanate from the disaster site.

  • Uganda’s president says strong election victory over his youthful challenger a taste of his strength

    Uganda’s president says strong election victory over his youthful challenger a taste of his strength

    KAMPALA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni has interpreted his decisive electoral triumph as a resounding affirmation of his National Resistance Movement’s enduring dominance in Ugandan politics. Addressing the nation from his western residence on Sunday, the veteran leader characterized the opposition as fortunate to have witnessed only a fraction of his party’s true political strength.

    The official results indicate Museveni secured 71.6% of votes, extending his four-decade rule with a seventh term that positions him to approach nearly fifty years in power. His principal challenger, musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine (legally named Kyagulanyi Ssentamu), garnered 24.7% but immediately dismissed the outcome as fraudulent.

    This electoral process unfolded against a backdrop of notably diminished public participation, with voter turnout plummeting to 52%—the lowest since Uganda reintroduced multiparty politics in 2006. Museveni speculated that many absent voters belonged to his own party, suggesting their absence reflected confidence rather than apathy.

    The election was marred by significant operational challenges, including a nationwide internet blackout and widespread malfunctions of biometric verification systems that delayed polling in critical areas including the capital. Wine’s campaign additionally alleges systematic ballot stuffing in Museveni’s strongholds.

    Security forces maintained an overwhelming presence throughout the electoral period, with opposition figures reporting persistent harassment and violent suppression. Wine frequently campaigned wearing protective gear due to safety concerns. Museveni accused opposition elements of terrorism and treason, referencing an incident in Butambala where police killed seven supporters of a parliamentary candidate affiliated with Wine’s party.

    The constitutional pathway for challenging results remains theoretically open, though previous legal attempts to overturn Museveni’s victories have proven unsuccessful. With term limits and age restrictions already removed from Uganda’s constitution, and potential rivals imprisoned or marginalized, the nation continues its six-decade absence of peaceful presidential transitions since independence.

  • Abu Dhabi: Man ordered to pay Dh25,000 for filming, posting online without consent

    Abu Dhabi: Man ordered to pay Dh25,000 for filming, posting online without consent

    In a significant ruling reinforcing digital privacy rights, Abu Dhabi’s judicial system has delivered a decisive verdict against unauthorized image sharing. The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil and Administrative Court adjudicated on January 6, 2026, mandating a defendant to pay Dh25,000 in compensation for capturing and disseminating an individual’s photograph without consent.

    The case originated when the defendant photographed the plaintiff in a public setting and subsequently published the image on Snapchat without authorization. This action prompted both civil and criminal proceedings, with the criminal court previously establishing the defendant’s guilt in privacy violation. The initial criminal judgment, upheld by the Abu Dhabi Appeals Prosecution in August 2025, included a provisional compensation of Dh20,000, mandatory deletion of the Snapchat account, and a six-month internet ban.

    In the civil proceedings, the plaintiff sought Dh50,000 compensation, citing substantial emotional distress and reputational damage among professional and personal circles. The court meticulously examined evidentiary documents, including the February 2025 prosecution judgment that confirmed the privacy infringement.

    While acknowledging the moral damages suffered by the plaintiff, the court differentiated between emotional and financial impacts. The final award of Dh25,000 specifically addresses moral damages, incorporating the previously awarded provisional compensation with an additional Dh5,000 for intangible harms. The court dismissed financial damage claims due to insufficient evidence connecting the defendant’s actions to monetary losses.

    The comprehensive ruling also requires the defendant to cover all court expenses and legal fees, delivering a clear message about the serious consequences of non-consensual image sharing in the digital age.

  • Dubai: Can a tenant let a relative stay in the house?

    Dubai: Can a tenant let a relative stay in the house?

    Dubai’s rental market, a cornerstone of its dynamic urban landscape, operates under a clearly defined legal framework that governs landlord-tenant relationships. A common query among the city’s vast expatriate population concerns the permissibility of hosting relatives in a leased property. The answer, rooted in Dubai Law No. (26) of 2007, provides crucial guidance for tenants seeking to avoid contractual breaches.

    According to Article 19 of the statute, a tenant is expressly entitled to occupy and utilize a rented property strictly for the purpose mutually agreed upon within the tenancy contract. Crucially, this right does not extend to altering the property’s nature of use or permitting occupation by others in a manner that contradicts the original agreement with the landlord.

    The legal provisions become more specific regarding third-party occupancy. Article 24 of the Dubai Rent Law explicitly states that a tenant is prohibited from renting out the apartment—or any segment of it—to another individual. Furthermore, subleasing to another party is strictly forbidden unless the landlord has provided explicit written consent. This clause is designed to protect the property owner’s rights and maintain control over who resides on their premises.

    In practical scenarios, such as a tenant wishing to temporarily host a cousin searching for employment, the application of the law requires careful consideration. While a brief, temporary stay by an immediate family member might not necessitate formal permission, the situation changes dramatically with prolonged residence. Tenants are strongly advised to meticulously review any additional terms and conditions annexed to their specific tenancy contract, which may outline protocols for extended family members.

    Legal experts emphasize that transparency with the landlord remains the safest approach. Proactive communication and seeking written approval, even for temporary arrangements, can prevent potential disputes, ensure compliance with tenancy laws, and foster a positive landlord-tenant relationship in Dubai’s regulated housing market.

  • Trump invites leaders to ‘Board of Peace’; Israel objects to lineup

    Trump invites leaders to ‘Board of Peace’; Israel objects to lineup

    In a significant diplomatic development, the Israeli government has formally expressed objections to the proposed membership structure of the Gaza Executive Board, a subsidiary body operating under President Donald Trump’s newly established ‘Board of Peace’ initiative. The controversy emerged following the White House’s Friday announcement revealing Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Qatari representation among the panel’s key members.

    The Board of Peace, conceptualized as an oversight mechanism for post-war governance in Palestinian territories, continues to take shape with invitations extended to numerous international leaders. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have all received formal requests to participate as founding members. While Carney and Milei have indicated acceptance, Cairo remains in deliberation regarding its involvement.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released a statement clarifying that ‘the announcement regarding the composition of the Gaza Executive Board was not coordinated with Israel and runs contrary to its policy.’ Consequently, Israel’s Foreign Affairs Minister has been directed to initiate discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding these concerns.

    The Board’s executive leadership includes prominent figures such as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, senior negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, alongside World Bank President Ajay Banga and billionaire financier Marc Rowan. Trump has assumed chairmanship of the overarching body, which aims to address governance capacity-building, reconstruction efforts, investment attraction, and large-scale funding mobilization in Gaza.

    Meanwhile, the Palestinian technocratic committee commenced its inaugural meeting in Cairo under Board of Peace supervision, attended by Kushner. The initiative faces criticism from Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad, which asserts the board ‘serves Israel’s interests,’ while Washington confirms the Gaza plan has progressed to its second phase—transitioning from ceasefire implementation to Hamas disarmament.

    Complementing these developments, Trump has appointed US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead the International Stabilization Force, tasked with providing security and training a new police force to succeed Hamas in Gaza.