Category Archives: culture

Daren Sammy highlights decline of West Indies’ Test side

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**By Parth Dhall | Oct 08, 2025 | 05:05 pm**

**What’s the story?**

Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy has drawn a stark comparison between the decline of his Test side and a “cancer” that has been developing over a long period.

Speaking ahead of the second Test against India in Delhi, Sammy acknowledged that role models in the shorter formats of the game are readily available for younger players. However, he emphasized that they can only work with the resources currently at their disposal.

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**Candid remarks on deep-rooted issues in West Indies cricket**

West Indies recently lost the first match of the two-Test series in India by an innings and 140 runs. Ahead of the second Test, Sammy did not shy away from addressing the struggles facing West Indies cricket, particularly in the Test format.

He said, *“I know now I’m under the microscope. I’m in the middle, and we’re open to criticism.”* But Sammy also stressed that these problems are not new — they run deep within the system.

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**Metaphorical comparison: Cancer analogy for West Indies cricket struggles**

Sammy likened the many challenges plaguing West Indies cricket to *“cancer that’s already in the system.”* He explained, *“If you don’t get cancer, you know what happens. Our problems don’t lie on the surface. It’s rooted deep into our system.”*

He further highlighted the financial difficulties facing West Indies cricket. *“The difference between the different teams, the top 3-4 teams in the world versus the bottom four. We’ve been struggling with finances for a long time,”* Sammy said.

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**Missed commercial opportunities for West Indies**

Reflecting on the past, Sammy lamented how West Indies failed to capitalize commercially during their glory days as the world’s best side — unlike India, which has successfully leveraged its cricketing success.

*“We’re playing five Test matches, four months in one place, entertaining the world,”* Sammy noted. But due to mismanagement and other factors over the years, the team now finds itself in dire need of financial resources to help foster growth and development.

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**Woeful numbers paint a grim picture**

According to ESPNcricinfo, West Indies have recorded 13 sub-200 totals in their last 15 Test innings. In those innings, they failed to bat out even 90 overs or complete a full day.

Notably, since the start of this century, the Windies have won only two Tests against India — the last victory coming back in 2002. Overall, they have lost six of their last seven Test matches.

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Daren Sammy’s candid remarks shine a light on the deep-rooted challenges facing West Indies cricket, calling for urgent action to revive the pride and performance of the once-dominant Test side.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/daren-sammy-highlights-decline-of-west-indies-in-test-cricket/story

Daren Sammy highlights decline of West Indies’ Test side

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By Parth Dhall | Oct 08, 2025 | 05:05 pm

**The Story**

Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy has drawn a stark comparison between the decline of his Test side and a “cancer” that has been developing over a long period.

Speaking ahead of the second Test against India in Delhi, Sammy acknowledged that role models in the shorter formats of the game are readily available for younger players. However, he emphasized that they can only work with the resources currently at their disposal.

**Candid Remarks: Deep-rooted Issues in West Indies Cricket**

West Indies lost the first Test of the two-match series in India by an innings and 140 runs. Ahead of the second Test, Sammy did not shy away from addressing the ongoing struggles of West Indies cricket, particularly in the Test format.

“I know now I’m under the microscope. I’m in the middle, and we’re open to criticism,” he said. Yet, Sammy stressed that these problems did not emerge overnight; they are deeply embedded within the system.

**Metaphorical Comparison: Cancer Analogy for West Indies Cricket Struggles**

Sammy likened the chronic issues affecting West Indies cricket to “a cancer that’s already in the system.” He elaborated, “If you don’t get cancer, you know what happens. Our problems don’t lie on the surface. It’s rooted deep into our system.”

He also highlighted the financial challenges faced by West Indies cricket, noting, “The difference between the top 3-4 teams in the world versus the bottom four is huge. We’ve been struggling with finances for a long time.”

**Missed Chances: Commercial Opportunities Slip Away**

Reflecting on missed commercial opportunities, Sammy lamented that when West Indies was once the best side in the world, they failed to capitalize on commercial benefits in the way nations like India did.

“We’re playing five Test matches, four months in one place, entertaining the world,” he remarked. He added that due to lack of management and other factors over the years, West Indies now find themselves in dire need of financial resources to help the game grow within the region.

**Woeful Numbers for West Indies**

According to ESPNcricinfo, West Indies have recorded 13 sub-200 totals in their last 15 Test innings. In those innings, they consistently failed to bat out 90 overs or a full day.

Notably, since the start of this century, the Windies have won only two Tests against India, the last victory coming in 2002. Overall, they have lost six of their last seven Tests.

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The road ahead is challenging for West Indies cricket, but addressing the deep-rooted issues highlighted by Sammy is crucial for rebuilding the once-dominant Test side.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/daren-sammy-highlights-decline-of-west-indies-in-test-cricket/story

Start your day right: 5 fennel seed recipes

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**Start Your Day Right: 5 Fennel Seed Recipes**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 08, 2025, 03:49 PM*

Fennel seeds are a staple in many kitchens, prized for their unique flavor and digestive benefits. These small seeds can be incorporated into a variety of breakfast recipes, giving you a refreshing and healthy start to your day. From smoothies to porridge, fennel seeds add both taste and nutrition to your morning meals. Here are five creative ways to include fennel seeds in your breakfast routine.

### 1. Fennel Seed Smoothie Delight
Kickstart your day with a burst of flavor by making a fennel seed smoothie. Soak one teaspoon of fennel seeds overnight, then blend them with one banana, half a cup of yogurt, and a handful of spinach. The result is a creamy, nutrient-rich drink that balances the natural sweetness of banana with the subtle, anise-like taste of fennel. This smoothie is refreshing and also aids digestion.

### 2. Fennel Seed Infused Oatmeal
Enjoy a warm and comforting breakfast by infusing oatmeal with fennel seeds. Add one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds to half a cup of oats as you cook them in water or milk. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, and top with fresh fruits such as berries or sliced apples for extra texture and flavor. This wholesome meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

### 3. Fennel Seed Yogurt Parfait
For a quick and visually appealing breakfast, try a fennel seed yogurt parfait. Layer Greek yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, and one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds in a glass or bowl. The crunchy granola and juicy fruit complement the aromatic fennel notes perfectly, making it an ideal pick-me-up for busy mornings.

### 4. Fennel Seed Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is versatile and easy to prepare. Mix two tablespoons of chia seeds with water or milk and let it sit overnight until it thickens. Before serving, stir in one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds and top with nuts or dried fruits for added crunch. This pudding offers a nutritious, flavorful start to your day.

### 5. Fennel Seed Granola Bars
For those who prefer grab-and-go breakfasts, homemade granola bars with fennel seeds are perfect. Combine oats, nuts, honey, dried fruits, and half a teaspoon of ground fennel per bar. Bake until golden brown, then cool and store in an airtight container. These bars are a convenient and healthy option for busy mornings.

Incorporating fennel seeds into your breakfast routine not only enhances flavor but also promotes digestion and overall wellness. Try these five recipes to start your day right with the goodness of fennel!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/start-your-day-with-fennel-seeds-5-recipes/story

East Indians Demand Naming Of Mumbai Airport Terminal After Freedom Fighter Joseph ‘Kaka’ Baptista

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Following the government’s decision to name the Navi Mumbai International Airport after D. B. Patil, a late local leader, members of the East Indian community have now urged authorities to rename the domestic terminal of the Mumbai airport in honour of freedom fighter Joseph Baptista, one of the city’s original inhabitants.

### Call for Recognition of East Indian Heritage

The East Indian community has drawn parallels between the histories of the two airports. While the Navi Mumbai airport was constructed on land acquired from Agris, Kolis, and other local castes, the Mumbai airport too was built on farmland belonging to East Indians, who are Roman Catholic converts from the same castes.

Community members argue that the contribution of East Indians, who gave up their ancestral land for urban development, deserves similar recognition.

### Honouring an Unsung Hero

Joseph “Kaka” Baptista, a close associate of Lokmanya Tilak, was a prominent freedom fighter, lawyer at the Bombay High Court, and also served as Mayor of Bombay.

Vicky Misquitta, from the Mobai Gaothan Panchayat’s Mumbai East Indian Bhumiputra Rights project, said that renaming one of the airport terminals after Baptista would be a fitting tribute to an unsung national hero and would acknowledge the East Indian community’s sacrifices.

“The East Indian community has a rich history, and their ancestral lands, including those in the Mumbai airport, are a testament to their significant contributions to the city as its indigenous people. The 7/12 extracts serve as proof of their ownership and connection to the land,” said Misquitta.

### Appeal for Government Consideration

Alphi D’Souza, MGP chief, whose family once owned land where the Mumbai airport now stands, commended the Navi Mumbai Agri community’s efforts to have the new airport named after D. B. Patil.

He urged the government to similarly honour Kaka Baptista for his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle and for representing the voice of Mumbai’s original inhabitants.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/east-indians-demand-naming-of-mumbai-airport-terminal-after-freedom-fighter-joseph-kaka-baptista

Multicultural Festival cooks up food and fun this weekend at Market Creek Plaza

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation is hosting a Multicultural Festival Day this Sunday, Oct. 12, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Market Creek Plaza Amphitheater.

The free event is returning for the first time since 2020, aiming to celebrate a variety of cultures through food, entertainment, and community connection.

“There’s no festival without food. So we have some great food vendors,” says Vanessa McEvoy, Facilities and Operations Manager for The Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation.

One of the vendors, Mahalang Grill & Craft, reflects this spirit. “These are all staples of our Chamorro culture. At any fiesta, you would find these items here,” shares Melissa Salas-Ramirez, Manager of Mahalang Grill & Craft.

In addition to delicious food, festival-goers can enjoy performances from groups like Danza Azteca Kuauhkoatl. Attendees can also participate in various activities including rock climbing, face painting, jumbo lawn games, and more.

The event is free to the public and takes place at 336 Euclid Avenue. Local vendors will be onsite selling food and merchandise.

You can register for the event ahead of time or simply show up to enjoy the food and festivities! Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of culture and community.
https://fox5sandiego.com/san-diego-guide/things-to-do/jacobs-center-multicultural-festival/

The Us@250 Experience

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**Pride. Reckoning. Aspiration.**

As an American, you can experience all of these feelings at the same time: hold pride in our progress, reckon with our problematic past, and aspire for a better future.

That is at the heart of New America’s *Us@250* initiative—an effort to deepen our understanding of our national identity by expanding the American narrative to include the rich, complex histories of all of us.

Ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, join New America this fall for robust conversations on these themes with policymakers, visual artists, community organizers, and more.

Together, we’ll explore the truths and contradictions about ourselves and our country through poetry, film, comedy, story, and music.

We’ll also ask big questions: Given the nation’s history, who might we become if we truly live up to its founding ideals? Who belongs here, and who will be welcome? And how can we make the promise of America available to all?
https://www.newamerica.org/new-america/events/the-us250-experience/

Why Robert Redford is more than just a Hollywood legend

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**Why Robert Redford is More Than Just a Hollywood Legend**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 07, 2025, 10:48 am*

Robert Redford, the iconic American actor, director, and producer, has had a profound impact on the film industry. Known for his contributions to storytelling and character development, Redford’s career is marked by roles that challenge societal norms and delve into complex human emotions. His work has inspired generations of filmmakers and actors alike, making him a pivotal figure in American cinema.

### The Sundance Institute Legacy

In 1980, Redford established the Sundance Institute to promote independent filmmakers. This institute has since become a premier platform for emerging talent and is best known for hosting the renowned Sundance Film Festival. Through this initiative, Redford has transformed the landscape of independent cinema by giving voice to diverse stories and perspectives. His commitment to nurturing new talent has led to the discovery of many acclaimed filmmakers.

### Pioneering Environmental Activism in Film

Redford has also leveraged his platform to advocate for environmental causes through his work in film. He has both starred in and produced projects that highlight critical environmental issues, raising awareness about conservation and sustainability. His dedication to these causes has influenced public perception and encouraged other filmmakers to consider the environmental impact of their projects.

### Redefining Leading Man Roles

With nuanced performances in films like *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid* and *All the President’s Men*, Redford redefined what it means to be a leading man. He consistently chose roles that demanded emotional depth and moral complexity, avoiding traditional Hollywood stereotypes. This approach has inspired actors to seek more meaningful roles that emphasize character over mere star power.

### Championing Creative Freedom

Throughout his career, Redford has been a steadfast advocate for creative freedom in filmmaking. He has resisted studio constraints that limit artistic expression, encouraging filmmakers to stay true to their unique vision. His belief in creative autonomy has resulted in some of cinema’s most innovative films and continues to inspire artists worldwide.

Robert Redford’s legacy transcends his acclaimed filmography—he is a trailblazer who has reshaped cinema, championed environmental causes, and empowered new generations of storytellers.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-robert-redford-changed-american-cinema/story

Products by students and alumni to be sold at John Hansard Gallery

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As part of a new collaboration for the university’s retail initiative, Re: So, the John Hansard Gallery will be selling products on-site. This exciting partnership allows gallery visitors to engage directly with the work of three talented graduates. The items available for purchase include typographic prints, one-of-a-kind bookmarks, and stickers featuring a bespoke motif.

John Hansard Gallery’s duty manager, Jessica Willis, shared her enthusiasm about the collaboration:
“We are delighted to be a new stockist of Re: So products and to support the work of early career creatives from Solent University. Re: So is a fantastic resource for students, and it’s so exciting to see the fresh and innovative talent that’s emerging through their programme.”

Bookmarks handmade by illustration graduate Liberty Baker are now available to buy at the gallery as part of this initiative. Ms. Baker expressed her gratitude for the opportunity:
“I’m super grateful to have this opportunity. There is a great beauty in the uniqueness of each piece because you never know what the final outcome will look like, which is exciting. I hope that this exposure will allow more people to be inspired to create their own.”

Providing a platform for emerging designers is the central aim of Re: So, showcasing the creativity and talent of Solent University graduates.

[READ MORE: Young Southampton artist brings fresh energy to Sarisbury Green sign]
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25506813.john-hansard-gallery-selling-solent-university-students-work/?ref=rss

CM Yogi Offers Prayers At Kashi Vishwanath, Kashi Kotwal & Kaal Bhairav Temples On Sharad Purnima

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Varanasi, October 6: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who also holds the title of Gorakshpeethadhipati, visited and worshipped at the Kashi Vishwanath Dham and the ‘Kashi Kotwal’ Kaal Bhairav temples on Monday, marking the auspicious occasion of Sharad Purnima.

The Chief Minister performed the Shodashopachar puja in the sanctum sanctorum of Kashi Vishwanath and offered prayers at the Kaal Bhairav temple seeking the prosperity of the state.

During his visit, CM Yogi also greeted devotees, blessed a newborn child, and distributed chocolates to children, taking a moment to inquire about their studies. He formally inaugurated the Ganga Aarti at Namo Ghat, adding a personal touch to the spiritual proceedings.

Devotees expressed their enthusiasm by chanting “Har Har Mahadev” upon seeing the Chief Minister at the temples.

The prayers were attended by several dignitaries including Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister of State for Stamps (Independent Charge) Ravindra Jaiswal, Minister of State for AYUSH (Independent Charge) Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Legislative Council Member Dharmendra Singh, and MLAs Dr. Neelkanth Tiwari, Dr. Awadhesh Singh, and T. Ram.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/cm-yogi-offers-prayers-at-kashi-vishwanath-kashi-kotwal-kaal-bhairav-temples-on-sharad-purnima

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. The event, which he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr, has faced criticism from fellow comedians for allegedly whitewashing a regime notorious for human rights abuses.

**Unexpected Audience Response**

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK shared that many comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s reaction in Riyadh. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson, who also performed at the event, later expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

**Decision-Making and Performance Guidelines**

CK revealed that organizers informed him of only two restrictions for his performance: to avoid jokes about “their religion and their government.” He noted that he didn’t have any material targeting those topics.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

**Criticism from Fellow Comedians**

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have strongly criticized performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship but chose to participate in the Riyadh festival.

David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, explicitly calling out Louis CK by name. “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” he wrote.

**Defenses from Performers**

Jessica Kirson requested assurances that she could discuss her identity as a lesbian on stage before agreeing to perform. Despite her initial participation, she later expressed “sincere regret” about performing under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Burr, who performed at the festival on September 26, defended his decision, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience.” He emphasized the value of experiencing that part of the world firsthand.

Other notable comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari also participated in the festival, adding to the diversity of voices present.

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The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the intersection of entertainment, cultural exchange, and human rights concerns in politically sensitive regions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story