Australian singer quits Russia’s Eurovision alternative

Intervision, the Russian alternative to the Eurovision Song Contest, has kicked off in Moscow with a message from President Vladimir Putin. In his address, Putin emphasized that the event promotes the preservation of cultural identity. “Respect for traditional values and the diversity of cultures is the fundamental idea of the competition and inspires participants to achieve artistic heights,” he stated.

The musical competition features 23 countries and is being held in front of about 11,000 spectators at the Live Arena concert hall in Moscow, according to the organizers.

Shortly before the performance of Australian-born singer Vasiliki Karagiorgos, known professionally as Vassy, who was set to represent the United States, the hosts announced that she would no longer be participating. The organizers, noting that Vassy holds US citizenship, attributed her withdrawal to alleged “unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government.”

Vassy had already been a replacement candidate, stepping in after the originally announced US entry, musician B Howard (Brandon Howard), withdrew on Wednesday due to “unforeseen family reasons.”

Russia’s state-run Channel One is broadcasting the three-and-a-half-hour show. The winner will be decided by an international jury made up of representatives from the participating countries. These include former Soviet republics such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, as well as Russia’s allies in the BRICS group, including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa.

Unlike Eurovision, Intervision does not allow public voting.

Russia has been barred from participating in Eurovision since 2022, following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Intervision is widely seen as President Putin’s conservative counter-project to Eurovision. “There will be no perversions or mockery of human nature,” commented Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
https://thewest.com.au/entertainment/australian-singer-quits-russias-eurovision-alternative-c-20091307

Mumbai News: Devotees Recreate Historic Mot Mauli Pilgrimage From Mahim To Mount Mary Basilica

Mother Mary devotees participated in the annual Mot Mauli Purcessao pilgrimage on Saturday morning, journeying from St. Michael’s Church in Mahim to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, Bandra. This pilgrimage marks a significant event during the eight-day Bandra Fair, centered around the basilica—affectionately known as Mount Mary—which will conclude on Sunday.

The one-and-a-half-hour procession reenacted the original pilgrimage to the Bandra shrine dating back to 1761, when a rekla, or horse-drawn cart, carried the Statue of Our Lady of the Mount. The final leg of the procession began at St. Peter’s Church on Hill Road, continuing to Mount Mary for the religious service held at 9:30 a.m.

“The procession is recreated to promote native devotion to the patroness of the East Indian community, Mount Mary,” said Gleason Barretto, founder trustee of the Mobai Gaothan Panchayat, the organization behind the event.

Highlights of the event included a traditional East Indian brass band, the luzar (rosary), religious hymns, and participants dressed in East Indian-themed costumes. The Bombay Velankanni Pilgrims Band also performed during the procession, with members of the St. Peter’s Confraternity actively taking part in the celebrations.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-devotees-recreate-historic-mot-mauli-pilgrimage-from-mahim-to-mount-mary-basilica

Navratri 2025: Temple & Pandal Exploration Tour Announced In Mumbai; Check Out Dates, Itinerary, Tickets & More

**Mumbai Launches Special Navratri Temple & Pandal Exploration Tour 2025**

Mumbai is gearing up for the festive season with the launch of a special **Navratri Temple & Pandal Exploration Tour 2025**, scheduled to take place from **22 September to 2 October 2025**. This carefully curated experience invites devotees and tourists alike to explore the city’s most famous heritage temples and vibrant Navratri pandals, blending spirituality with cultural discovery.

Organised with the support of certified tour guides from the Ministry of Tourism (Government of India) and Maharashtra’s State Department Guides, the four-hour guided journey aims to showcase Mumbai’s rich cultural heritage during Navratri.

### Highlights of the Tour

The Navratri Temple/Pandal Hopping Tour includes visits to iconic religious sites such as:

– **Mumba Devi Temple** – The city’s namesake and a central point of devotion.
– **Mahalaxmi Temple** – One of Mumbai’s most revered shrines.
– **Prabha Devi Temple** – Known for its spiritual and historical significance.

Starting from the **5th day of Navratri (27 September 2025)**, participants will also enjoy exclusive access to the **Bengali Club Pandal**, a celebrated destination for devotees during the festival.

### Inclusions & Facilities

– Comfortable travel in an air-conditioned bus.
– Complimentary bottle of water for participants.
– Guidance from a licensed tourism professional throughout the trip.
– Hassle-free M-ticket/contactless booking via **BookMyShow** with fast-track entry.

### Date, Timing, Language, and Pricing

– Tours begin daily at **4:00 PM**.
– Duration: **4 hours**.
– Open to participants aged **3 years and above**.
– Instructions and guidance available in **English, Hindi, and Marathi**.
– Ticket prices start from **₹1,549 onwards**.

### Additional Notes

Authorities have clarified that access to certain heritage pandals may be restricted in case of security concerns or public safety requirements. Nevertheless, the tour promises an insightful journey into Mumbai’s cultural and religious traditions, providing participants with opportunities to learn about the historical background and cultural significance of each site.

### Why This Tour Matters

Navratri is one of India’s most vibrant festivals, and this guided tour ensures visitors not only witness the devotional energy but also gain a deeper understanding of Mumbai’s spiritual heritage. From ancient temples to festive pandals, the itinerary beautifully blends tradition with modern convenience, making it an ideal activity for both locals and tourists during the festive season.

### Booking Information

For bookings and more details, tickets are available exclusively on **[BookMyShow](https://www.bookmyshow.com/)**.

Experience the spirit of Navratri like never before with this unique exploration of Mumbai’s cultural heartlands!
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navratri-2025-temple-pandal-exploration-tour-announced-in-mumbai-check-out-dates-itinerary-tickets-more

Swedish weddings: 5 traditions to know

By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 19, 2025, 02:22 PM

**What’s the Story?**

Swedish weddings are a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, making them unique and memorable. From centuries-old customs to contemporary touches, these ceremonies reflect Sweden’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a wedding or simply curious about Swedish traditions, here’s a look at five fascinating practices that make Swedish weddings special. Each tradition offers insight into the values and beliefs cherished in Swedish culture.

### 1. The Bridal Crown Tradition

The bridal crown is a significant part of Swedish wedding traditions. Traditionally, brides wore crowns made of gold or silver, symbolizing purity and commitment. Today, many brides still incorporate this tradition by wearing floral crowns or tiaras during their ceremonies.

The crown represents the bride’s transition into marriage and is often passed down through generations as a cherished family heirloom.

### 2. The Wedding Dance

A lively wedding dance is an integral part of Swedish nuptials, where guests join in traditional folk dances. These dances are not just a source of entertainment but also a way to bring everyone together, irrespective of age or background.

The couple often leads the dance, symbolizing their unity and inviting everyone to celebrate their love with joy and enthusiasm.

### 3. The Cake Pull Tradition

The cake pull is a fun tradition where guests pull ribbons attached to small charms hidden inside the wedding cake. Each charm carries a different meaning, such as love or luck, and the guest who pulls it gets to keep it as a token of good fortune for the future.

This playful activity adds an element of excitement to the celebration while engaging attendees in an interactive way.

### 4. The Flower Girl Tradition

Having a flower girl is a common practice in Swedish weddings. Young girls walk down the aisle before the bride, scattering petals. This sweet custom symbolizes innocence and purity, adding to the ceremony’s beauty.

The flower girl often wears a white dress similar to the bride’s, making it a charming and heartwarming part of the wedding.

### 5. The Toast Tradition

Toasting is an important part of Swedish wedding receptions, where guests raise glasses filled with sparkling cider or non-alcoholic beverages in honor of the couple’s future happiness.

Toasts are usually given by family members first before inviting friends to share their well-wishes as well. This tradition encourages heartfelt expressions of love and support from everyone present at this joyous occasion.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/swedish-weddings-5-traditions-to-know/story

When in Bangkok, visit these local markets

**When in Bangkok, Visit These Local Markets**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 19, 2025, 01:28 PM*

Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, is famous for its lively local markets. These markets offer an authentic taste of the city’s culture and daily life. From fresh produce to handcrafted items, each market has its own unique offerings. Exploring these vibrant places is an exhilarating experience for anyone looking to discover Bangkok’s true essence.

Here are some must-visit local markets that showcase everyday life in this dynamic city:

### 1. Chatuchak Weekend Market: A Shopper’s Paradise

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world. Spanning over 35 acres, it features more than 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and home décor to antiques. Drawing over 200,000 visitors every weekend, it’s a lively and bustling destination.

The market is divided into sections based on product categories, making shopping easier. Here, you can find almost anything at affordable prices, making it a must-visit for shoppers.

### 2. Or Tor Kor Market: Fresh Produce Hub

Or Tor Kor Market is renowned for its high-quality fresh produce and local delicacies. Unlike many other markets, it boasts an organized layout and a cleaner environment.

This market is famous for its wide selection of fruits, vegetables, and Thai snacks. There is also a section offering ready-to-eat meals and desserts. Whether you want to savor authentic Thai flavors or stock up on fresh ingredients, Or Tor Kor is the place to go.

### 3. Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin: Vintage Treasure Trove

Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin is a vibrant vintage night market known for its retro collectibles and unique finds. You’ll discover vintage clothing, antique furniture, vinyl records, and quirky souvenirs spanning different eras.

In addition to shopping, the market offers live music performances and delicious street food stalls, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for evening exploration.

### 4. Khlong Toei Market: Authentic Local Experience

Khlong Toei Market is one of Bangkok’s largest wet markets, offering a truly authentic local shopping experience. It is a popular spot among locals who come here to buy fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meat at reasonable prices.

The market opens early in the morning and becomes especially busy by noon, making it the ideal place to shop for daily groceries like a local.

### 5. Sampeng Lane: Narrow Alleyway Delights

Sampeng Lane is a bustling narrow alley in Yaowarat (Chinatown), known for wholesale goods at affordable prices. The busy lane is lined with shops selling textiles, accessories, electronics, and much more.

Catering to both retailers and individual shoppers, Sampeng Lane is perfect if you’re looking for variety without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a cultural enthusiast, visiting these markets will give you an unforgettable glimpse into Bangkok’s vibrant local life. Don’t miss out on exploring these dynamic hubs on your next visit to the city!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/when-in-bangkok-visit-these-local-markets/story

‘Bads of Bollywood’ review: Lakshya elevates Aryan’s entertaining series

**Can an Outsider Make It Big in Bollywood? A Review of *The Ba***ds of Bollywood***

*The Ba***ds of Bollywood* revolves around Aasmaan (Lakshya), an outsider and a rising Bollywood star. After signing a major Karan Johar film, he finds himself co-starring with Karishma Talwar, the daughter of superstar Ajay Talwar. However, Ajay (Deol) isn’t too pleased about this pairing. Adding to the drama, Aasmaan is being chased by the mafia while struggling to juggle his film commitments to Johar and producer Freddy Sodawallah (Manish Chaudhari).

### Self-Aware, Smart, and Funny

Perhaps the best aspect of *The Ba***ds of Bollywood* is how self-aware, smart, and cheeky it is. The show doesn’t shy away from poking fun at the industry — from Johar calling himself the “film mafia” to Rajat Bedi (known for *Koi… Mil Gaya*) taking multiple digs at his prolonged absence from Bollywood. Aryan Khan also makes fun of his own drug controversy and even spoofs the infamous Sameer Wankhede. This meta-humor adds a refreshing layer to the series, making it highly entertaining.

### Rajat Bedi’s Redemption Arc

Rajat Bedi plays Jaraj Saxena, a Bollywood has-been with an amusing and lovable charm. His character drives much of the plot forward and offers one of the series’ most memorable performances. There’s an underlying tragedy to his role which raises questions about the shelf life of fame and what happens when it’s suddenly snatched away. Bedi’s portrayal stands out as one of his best, blending humor with poignancy.

### SRK’s Much-Hyped Cameo

One of the highlights of the show is Shah Rukh Khan’s hilarious cameo during the Filmfirst Awards segment. SRK’s brief appearance is a perfect tribute to the iconic awards scene from *Om Shanti Om*. From the cameos to the way Aasmaan’s winning speech is filmed, it’s clear that Aryan Khan’s direction is a heartfelt nod to Farah Khan and her influence.

### A Gamble with the Final Twist

The series shines most when it mirrors real life. Johar’s lengthy talks about nepotism, jokes about Aryan’s mysterious persona, and mentions of Orry’s “omnipresence” all add to the authenticity. Towards the end, the show takes a bold, filmy twist. If renewed for a second season, this twist could heavily influence the trajectories of the central characters, making for an intriguing continuation.

### Areas Where the Show Could Improve

Despite its many meta moments and solid performances, *The Ba***ds of Bollywood* has its flaws. The biggest disappointment lies with the much-hyped celebrity cameos. While some instantly bring a smile, others feel completely wasted. Icons like SS Rajamouli, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan receive flimsy dialogues and minimal screen time. Salman Khan, in particular, only has a few seconds on-screen, which feels like a missed opportunity.

### Narrative Issues and Underdeveloped Characters

While the show thrives on humor and performances, the storytelling sometimes falters. The love story between Karishma and Aasmaan feels superficial, making it difficult to invest emotionally in their romance. Additionally, characters played by Manoj Pahwa and Juyal, who are supposed to add comic relief, are poorly written and lack depth, despite their pivotal role in the plot.

### Overambition and Distractions

The underworld subplot, featuring Arshad Warsi as a don, struggles to grab attention and often feels out of place. The series juggles so many storylines that it sometimes becomes a victim of its own ambition. The tacky VFX during a car chase between Ajay and Aasmaan is an unfortunate low point and feels especially out of place in such a big-budget show.

### Verdict: Aryan Khan’s Directorial Debut Is Entertaining

*The Ba***ds of Bollywood* is most entertaining when it satirizes the film industry and immerses the audience in the glamorous and enigmatic world of Bollywood. With tighter writing and stronger supporting characters, the series could have been more impactful and dramatic. Nevertheless, despite some narrative fluff and missed opportunities, *The Ba***ds of Bollywood* is a binge-worthy, humorous, and entertaining watch.

**Rating: 3/5 stars**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/aryan-khan-s-bads-of-bollywood-review/story

The little details that made ‘Seinfeld’ unforgettable

**The Little Details That Made ‘Seinfeld’ Unforgettable**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 18, 2025, 02:03 PM*

**What’s the story?**
*Seinfeld*, famously known as a “show about nothing,” became an iconic series celebrated for its humor and relatable scenarios. Beyond the memorable characters and witty plotlines, the show was filled with subtle props that added depth and character to each scene. These background elements often went unnoticed but played a pivotal role in creating some of the series’ most unforgettable moments.

From quirky items in Jerry’s apartment to peculiar objects in Monk’s Cafe, these small details enriched the storytelling and enhanced the viewer’s experience. Here are some of the most notable props that contributed to *Seinfeld*’s charm:

### 1. The Superman Figurine
In Jerry’s apartment, a Superman figurine can often be spotted perched on his bookshelf. This small detail serves as a nod to Jerry Seinfeld’s real-life admiration for the superhero. The figurine subtly reinforces Jerry’s character as someone who values strength and justice—albeit in his unique comedic way.

Additionally, it acts as a fun Easter egg for fans who enjoy spotting recurring themes throughout the series, connecting Jerry’s personality to something larger than life.

### 2. The Cereal Boxes
Jerry’s kitchen is famously stocked with multiple cereal boxes lined up neatly atop his refrigerator. This detail highlights Jerry’s childlike tendencies and adds authenticity to his bachelor lifestyle.

The presence of various cereal brands reflects his indecisiveness—or perhaps his love for variety—making this a relatable and endearing trait for many viewers.

### 3. Kramer’s Assorted Vintage Items
Kramer’s apartment is filled with an eclectic collection of vintage items that perfectly match his eccentric personality. From old radios to retro furniture, the props create a chaotic yet intriguing atmosphere.

These visual cues amplify Kramer’s unpredictable nature and add extra layers of interest in scenes where he cooks up his many wild schemes.

### 4. Elaine’s Iconic Jujyfruits Box
Elaine Benes’s beloved box of Jujyfruits candy is another memorable prop that pop up throughout the series. This candy box often appears in episodes where Elaine makes impulsive decisions influenced by her cravings.

It adds humor by highlighting her quirky priorities and offers insight into her spontaneous behavior patterns—without needing elaborate dialogue or explanation.

These carefully chosen props, though small and often subtle, helped shape *Seinfeld* into the timeless classic it is today. They added texture, humor, and authenticity, making the characters and their world all the more relatable and unforgettable.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/seinfeld-s-secret-props-that-made-unforgettable-background-moments/story

The little details that made ‘Seinfeld’ unforgettable

**The Little Details That Made ‘Seinfeld’ Unforgettable**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 18, 2025, 02:03 PM*

Seinfeld, famously known as a show about nothing, became an iconic series celebrated for its humor and relatable scenarios. While much of the show’s appeal comes from its memorable characters and clever plotlines, it’s the subtle background details—the little props—that added depth and personality to each scene.

These often-overlooked elements played a pivotal role in making Seinfeld so unforgettable. From quirky items in Jerry’s apartment to peculiar objects in Monk’s Cafe, these props enriched the viewing experience and created countless memorable moments.

### The Superman Figurine

One small but significant detail appears in Jerry’s apartment: a Superman figurine resting on his bookshelf. This nod pays tribute to Jerry Seinfeld’s real-life admiration for the superhero. The figurine subtly reinforces Jerry’s character as someone who values strength and justice, albeit through his unique comedic lens. Additionally, it serves as an Easter egg for attentive fans who enjoy spotting recurring themes throughout the series.

### The Cereal Boxes

Jerry’s kitchen is famously stocked with multiple cereal boxes lined up neatly atop his refrigerator. This detail highlights Jerry’s somewhat childlike tendencies while adding authenticity to his bachelor lifestyle. The variety of cereal brands suggests his indecisiveness—or perhaps simply a love for choice—making his character all the more relatable and endearing to viewers.

### Kramer’s Assorted Vintage Items

Kramer’s apartment is a treasure trove of eclectic vintage items that perfectly reflect his eccentric personality. From old radios to retro furniture, these props create a setting that feels both chaotic and intriguing. They act as visual cues that amplify Kramer’s unpredictable nature, adding layers of texture to scenes where he concocts one of his many wild schemes.

### Elaine’s Iconic Jujyfruits Box

Elaine Benes has her own iconic prop: a box of Jujyfruits candy. Featured in several episodes, this prop highlights Elaine’s impulsive decisions driven by her cravings. It adds humor by underscoring her quirky priorities and offers insight into her spontaneous behavior—all without needing lengthy dialogue or explanation.

These subtle details—often easy to miss—helped build the rich world of Seinfeld, giving fans more to discover and enjoy with every episode. It’s a testament to the show’s thoughtful design that such small touches contributed so much to its timeless appeal.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/seinfeld-s-secret-props-that-made-unforgettable-background-moments/story

How to master culinary photography

By Simran Jeet | Sep 18, 2025 | 02:01 pm

**Culinary Photography in African Markets: Capturing the Essence of Local Flavor**

Culinary photography in African markets presents a lively and dynamic canvas for photographers. The bustling atmosphere, colorful produce, and unique local ingredients provide endless opportunities to capture stunning images. This article delves into key insights for mastering culinary photography in these vibrant settings, focusing on techniques that highlight the essence of local markets without unnecessary embellishments.

### 1. Understanding Market Dynamics

Mastering culinary photography in African markets starts with understanding how the market works. Observing how vendors are arranged and how customers interact gives you valuable insight into capturing authentic moments. For example, noticing peak hours can add energy and life to your photos.

Familiarity with the flow of people and movement of goods makes it easier to anticipate captivating scenes. This knowledge enhances your photographic narrative naturally, without relying on additional staging or embellishments.

### 2. Utilizing Natural Light

Natural light works wonders in bringing food photography to life. African markets often have open-air sections where sunlight streams in, creating beautiful, natural illumination.

Position yourself strategically to take full advantage of this natural light, as it helps the colors and textures of your subjects pop. Avoid using flash—it can disrupt the natural ambiance and draw unwanted attention.

### 3. Focusing on Unique Produce

African markets are renowned for their unique produce—fruits, vegetables, and spices you might not find anywhere else. Highlighting these items can add depth to your culinary photography portfolio.

Look for unusual fruits or vegetables with striking colors and shapes. Close-up shots can accentuate their distinct qualities and tell a story about the local food culture, providing visual interest and authenticity.

### 4. Engaging with Vendors

Building rapport with market vendors can significantly enhance your photographic experience. Conversing with them not only provides context about their products but also opens opportunities for candid shots as they go about their daily routines.

Respectful interaction encourages vendors’ cooperation and eases any hesitations they might have about being photographed, resulting in more genuine and intimate images.

### Tip: Capturing Movement and Activity

Markets are bustling hubs of activity, and capturing this movement brings your photographs to life. Focus on interactions between buyers and sellers or moments of goods being arranged on stalls.

These dynamic elements add energy and rhythm to your images, reflecting the vibrant spirit of local life. Multiple visits will reveal the diverse scenes across different African regions, further enriching your portfolio.

By understanding market dynamics, leveraging natural light, focusing on unique produce, and engaging with vendors, you can master the art of culinary photography in African markets. Embrace the vibrant energy and rich stories these settings offer, and let them inspire your creative journey.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/pro-africa-culinary-photography-mastery-in-local-markets/story

Education Ministry Directs Screening Of PM Modi-Inspired Film ‘Chalo Jeete Hain’ In CBSE, KVS, NVS Schools Till October 2

**Ministry of Education Mandates Screening of ‘Chalo Jeete Hain’ in Schools Nationwide**

The Ministry of Education has directed schools across the country to screen *Chalo Jeete Hain*, a short film based on childhood episodes from the life of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This initiative is part of a nationwide value-based learning program aimed at nurturing essential human values among students.

In a circular dated September 11, the ministry instructed the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) to make the 32-minute film available for viewing in their schools between September 16 and October 2.

### Focus on Values and Learning

The screening aligns with the *Prerana* programme, an experiential learning initiative designed to inculcate nine fundamental human values such as courage, service, dedication, empathy, diversity, and responsibility.

Officials emphasized that films serve as a powerful medium for students to connect with abstract values, ethical dilemmas, and human emotions. According to the ministry’s circular, “It will help young learners to reflect on themes of character, service, and responsibility. The film can also serve as a case study for moral reasoning, supporting the goals of social-emotional learning, including the development of empathy, self-reflection, critical thinking, and inspiration.”

### About the Film

*Chalo Jeete Hain* is directed by Mangesh Hadawale and produced by Aanand L. Rai and Mahaveer Jain. Initially released in 2018, the movie follows “Naru,” a young boy inspired by the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, who sets out on a journey to discover his purpose through helping others.

The film was honored with the National Award for Best Non-Feature Film on Family Values in 2019, as reported by the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

### Re-release under ‘Chalo Jeete Hain: Seva Ka Sanman’ Campaign

*Chalo Jeete Hain* is scheduled for a re-release from September 17 to October 2 as part of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s campaign *Chalo Jeete Hain: Seva Ka Sanman*. This campaign pays tribute to everyday “silent heroes” such as drivers, cleaners, and watchmen, recognizing their significant contributions to society.

For schools and educators, this initiative offers a valuable opportunity to engage students through meaningful storytelling that reinforces core human values and inspires social responsibility.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/education-ministry-directs-screening-of-pm-modi-inspired-film-chalo-jeete-hain-in-cbse-kvs-nvs-schools-till-october-2