Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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The iconic Bollywood film *Sholay*, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan, is set to be screened at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS).

What makes this screening special is that *Sholay* will be shown with its original ending, offering audiences a unique viewing experience of the classic film.

Fans and film enthusiasts alike can look forward to witnessing this legendary movie in a way that has rarely been seen before.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/sholay-to-screen-at-another-film-festival/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

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The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail.

The petitioners had requested that the graves be removed from the premises, citing various concerns. However, the court did not find sufficient grounds to grant the relief sought.

This decision upholds the current status of the graves within Tihar Jail, maintaining the existing arrangements. The ruling reflects the court’s stance on matters related to prison premises and the resting places within them.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Typhoon Ragasa Storms Into Southern China And Neighbouring Countries, Millions Of People Relocated; Scary Visuals Inside

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Typhoon Ragasa is wreaking havoc across parts of China and neighboring countries, earning the distinction of one of the strongest storms of the year. Currently, the super typhoon is battering southern China, having already impacted the Philippines and Taiwan.

Authorities have launched massive evacuation efforts, relocating millions of people from coastal and low-lying areas as Ragasa continues to unleash heavy rains and powerful winds. In China’s Guangdong province alone, more than a million residents have been moved to safer locations. Schools, offices, and businesses across over ten cities have been shut down as a precautionary measure.

In Shenzhen, nearly 400,000 people were evacuated following warnings about potential storm surges and flooding. The storm has also disrupted rail and air travel, causing cancellations of hundreds of flights throughout the region.

### Devastation in Taiwan and the Philippines

Before reaching China, Ragasa caused severe damage in Taiwan’s Hualien County, where flash floods triggered by torrential rains claimed the lives of at least 14 people. In the Philippines, the typhoon struck northern Luzon, resulting in 10 fatalities and forcing thousands into temporary shelters.

Dramatic footage circulating online shows towering waves crashing onto coastal promenades, uprooted trees blocking roads, and heavy winds tearing off rooftops. Emergency teams have been deployed in all affected areas, with officials warning that the upcoming hours will be critical as the storm moves further inland.

### Scary Visuals and Official Warnings

DD News shared a chilling video capturing Typhoon Ragasa pounding the coastline, accompanied by the caption:
“Super #TyphoonRagasa, the world’s most powerful tropical cyclone this year, lashed #HongKong with powerful winds and heavy rain. The city shut down, over 700 flights were canceled, and panic buying emptied supermarket shelves as people queued for hours, fearing shops would be closed for two days.”

Meteorologists have classified Ragasa as a super typhoon, with wind speeds reaching nearly 200 km/h. This has raised serious concerns about widespread damage to infrastructure, power lines, and farmland.

Officials continue to urge residents to remain indoors and follow all safety advisories as rescue operations stay on high alert.

Stay tuned for updates as Typhoon Ragasa moves through the region.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/typhoon-ragasa-storms-into-southern-china-and-neighbouring-countries-millions-of-people-relocated-scary-visuals-inside

Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims To Become Global Literary Hub With 100 Countries Participating

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**Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims to Host Publishers from 100 Countries**

*Chennai:* The Chennai International Book Fair (CIBF) is gearing up for its fourth edition in January 2026 with an ambitious target of hosting publishers and literary agents from 100 countries, positioning itself as a rising global hub for literary exchange.

**About The Fair**

The fair, the youngest international book fair in Asia, has rapidly grown in stature since its inception. In 2025, it attracted participation from 64 countries, and officials say the upcoming edition is set to expand that reach significantly.

Tamil Nadu School Education Secretary B. Chandra Mohan attributed the fair’s success to direct engagement with international associations such as the African Publishers Network, Francophone nations, and Publishers Without Borders. “This proactive outreach has helped place Chennai firmly on the global publishing map,” he noted.

To bolster these efforts, a delegation from the state’s school education department will travel to Germany in October to participate in the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest publishing marketplace. The team has already scheduled more than 30 appointments with potential co-publishers to explore translating Tamil classics and modern works published by the state textbook corporation into English and other foreign languages.

Among the key highlights planned at Frankfurt is the promotion of a comparative etymological dictionary of Tamil and Indo-European languages, aimed at attracting the attention of international publishers and European government agencies.

Discussions are also underway with UNESCO officials in Paris on reviving the *UNESCO Courier* magazine in Tamil, a publication that promotes cross-cultural dialogue and is currently brought out in six global languages.

Parallel to the fair, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an ambitious translation project. Over the next three years, the *Thirukkural* will be translated into 45 additional languages, while Tamil epics such as *Silappathikaram* and *Manimegalai* will be translated into 25 languages.

In addition, 500 Tamil books are planned for translation into English over five years, opening avenues for further adaptations into other foreign languages.

At the 2025 edition, more than 1,300 memorandums of understanding were signed to facilitate translation and exchange. Building on that momentum, CIBF 2026 hopes to cement Chennai’s role as a vibrant centre for global literary and cultural collaboration.

—

*(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/chennai-international-book-fair-2026-aims-to-become-global-literary-hub-with-100-countries-participating

Gold & Silver Retreat from Peaks Amid Federal Reserve’s Rate Cut Uncertainty

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New Delhi: Gold and silver prices pulled back from their record highs in futures trading on Wednesday as traders booked profits at elevated levels, dragging the precious metals lower. Markets were also digesting cautious remarks from US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding the outlook for potential interest rate cuts.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold futures for October delivery dropped Rs 408, or 0.36%, to Rs 1,13,428 per 10 grams. This came after the metal hit an all-time high of Rs 1,14,179 per 10 grams on Tuesday. Similarly, the December contract for gold fell Rs 353, or 0.31%, to Rs 1,14,486 per 10 grams following a lifetime peak of Rs 1,15,139 per 10 grams.

Silver futures also eased, retreating from their recent highs amid profit-taking. The white metal futures for December delivery slipped Rs 221, or 0.16%, to Rs 1,34,841 per kilogram. The March contract for next year shed Rs 121, or 0.09%, to Rs 1,36,271 per kilogram.

Globally, bullion prices retreated from historic peaks. Gold futures for December delivery traded 0.44% lower at USD 3,799.07 per ounce, after touching a record high of USD 3,824.60 per ounce on Tuesday. Silver futures for December delivery also slipped 0.44%, settling at USD 44.41 per ounce.

Commodities market experts attributed the decline primarily to profit-taking and caution following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks. Powell emphasized that there is no “risk-free path” for monetary policy. He warned that cutting rates too aggressively could force the Fed to reverse course if inflation continues, while holding policy restrictive for too long could harm the labor market.

On Tuesday, Powell reiterated a balanced approach to monetary easing, cautioning that cutting rates too quickly might risk leaving “the inflation job unfinished,” whereas delaying easing for too long could unnecessarily weaken the labor market. He added that current policy remains “modestly restrictive,” allowing the Fed some room to respond to changing economic conditions.

Last week, the US central bank lowered its benchmark rate by 25 basis points. Market participants are currently pricing in the likelihood of two additional reductions before the end of the year, a factor that helped cap losses for bullion.

Meanwhile, heightened geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East supported safe-haven demand, limiting the downside for gold and silver prices, analysts noted.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. No changes have been made except to the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/gold-silver-retreat-from-peaks-amid-federal-reserves-rate-cut-uncertainty

Police cracking down on drunk driving during AFL grand final weekend

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Victoria Police are cracking down on drunk and drug drivers over the AFL Grand Final long weekend.

As part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety during this significant event, authorities will increase patrols and conduct random breath and drug testing across the state.

Stay safe and avoid driving under the influence during the festivities.

—

*September 24, 2025*
https://www.theage.com.au/national/police-cracking-down-on-drunk-driving-during-afl-grand-final-weekend-20250924-p5mxos.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

Annapurna Interactive’s first Tokyo Game Show Direct features three new game reveals

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Some of gaming’s biggest publishers are set to gather this weekend for the annual Tokyo Game Show. Among them is Annapurna Interactive, marking its first-ever appearance on the show floor.

Prior to the big event, the publisher held a special Annapurna Direct to unveil three brand-new titles, all of which will be playable for attendees this weekend.

**D-Topia**

First up is *D-Topia*, the latest effort from Japanese developer Marumittu Games. Formerly known as *Project D*, *D-Topia* follows a single maintenance worker who helps manage and oversee a residential facility run by artificial intelligence. Players will solve puzzles to keep the AI running smoothly and maintain the happiness of the facility’s denizens. This sometimes involves making difficult choices that impact the story.

Look for *D-Topia* to release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch.

**People of Note**

Next is *People of Note*, from the team at Iridium Studios. Best described as a musical turn-based RPG, the game centers around Cadence, an aspiring star who can’t reach stardom alone. Players will recruit other musicians to form a killer band and face off against tough musical acts as well as the occasional fantasy creature.

*People of Note* blends musical rhythm mechanics with turn-based battles, delivering a unique RPG experience. The game is set to launch in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

**Demi and the Fractured Dream**

Finally, *Demi and the Fractured Dream* comes from the team at Yarn Owl. The story follows Demi, a cursed voidsent who awakens in the world of Somnus and is beckoned by the old gods to fulfill his destiny.

This title features classic hack-and-slash adventuring combined with environmental puzzles. Demi must rely on his sword, his abilities, and an acolyte named Mergo to repair this imaginative yet fractured world.

*Demi and the Fractured Dream* is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch in 2026.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Tokyo Game Show as Annapurna Interactive and other publishers showcase their latest and upcoming games.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146058/annapurna-interactive-direct-tokyo-game-show-reveals

Bombay HC Slams Thane Municipal Corporation For Illegal Construction On Govt Land, Orders Demolition

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**Bombay High Court Orders Demolition of Illegal Buildings in Thane, Slams TMC for Inaction**

*Mumbai:* The Bombay High Court has come down heavily on the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) for shielding illegal constructions allegedly built with the blessings of a former municipal corporator. In a strong ruling on September 22, a bench comprising Justices Girish Kulkarni and Aarti Sathe ordered the demolition of three multistorey buildings along with an unauthorized bar and restaurant established on government land designated for cattle grazing.

The court expressed shock at the civic body’s persistent inaction. “This is another case which would shock the conscience of the Court inasmuch as on the land in question,” the bench remarked. It further noted that the three buildings were constructed without any permission from the Thane Municipal Corporation. The constructions appeared to have the approval of the then Municipal Corporator, as alleged in the petition.

### About The Plea

The High Court was hearing a petition filed by Niraj Kabadi, who alleged that three buildings—Wings A, B, and C—were erected on plots at Mauje Majiwada, Thane, without obtaining the necessary conversion permissions from the state government.

Additionally, former corporator Bhushan Bhoir and others had started “Mogambo Bar and Family Restaurant” (later renamed Madhushala Bar) in their wives’ names without the required approvals. These facilities have been reportedly used for parties and events.

### Court Observations on TMC’s Inaction

Despite a coordinate bench granting police protection for demolition back in January 2025, the TMC failed to take any action against the illegal constructions. The court observed, “It appears that the Municipal Corporation had adopted an approach to subsist such illegality and was not very keen to implement the law of the land,” questioning the delay in enforcing court orders.

The judges also referred to earlier proceedings involving a plea by Subhadra Takle, which led to the demolition of 17 similar unauthorized structures in Thane after court mandates—a decision later upheld by the Supreme Court.

### Defense and Court’s Response

Senior advocate Ram Apte, representing the TMC, argued that demolition attempts were hindered due to protests and attempts to gather public crowds at the site. However, the court refused to accept this excuse. It stressed, “If the real intention of the Municipal Corporation was to undertake demolition, then the first step would have been disconnection of electricity and water supply.”

### Court Directives

Accepting an undertaking from advocate Apte, the court directed the TMC to:

– Issue notices to the occupants within one week
– Disconnect electricity and water supply within 15 days
– Proceed with demolition thereafter, with police protection if necessary

The court clarified that the concession of allowing notice before demolition was granted only considering the ongoing festive season. It emphasized that the occupants had long been aware that they were residing in unauthorized premises.

### Conclusion

The bench ordered the demolition of the “rank illegal and unauthorized” buildings and stressed that the TMC must demonstrate a “real intention” this time to dismantle illegal structures and uphold the law.

—

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/bombay-hc-slams-thane-municipal-corporation-for-illegal-construction-on-govt-land-orders-demolition

Which Are The 157+ Countries That Recognise Palestine As A State? Here’s The Full List

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The State of Palestine is now recognized by 157 of the 193 United Nations member states, amounting to 81% of the international community, along with the observer-state Holy See, according to a report by Al Jazeera. This new wave of recognition at the 80th UN General Assembly session highlights a significant shift in global diplomacy amid Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, which has claimed the lives of more than 65,000 Palestinians and continues to do so.

### New Recognitions in 2025

France, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Andorra, and Belgium formally recognized Palestine at the UN General Assembly 2025. They joined Canada, Australia, and Portugal, as well as the United Kingdom, which confirmed its recognition earlier on Sunday (September 21).

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated,
“In the face of the growing horror in the Middle East, we are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace and of a two-state solution.”

These declarations mark 11 new recognitions this year, including Mexico, and 20 since Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began in October 2023. The decisions by Western powers—long seen as close allies of Israel—reflect its growing isolation as settlement expansion continues in the occupied West Bank and Gaza faces near complete destruction.

Here’s a list of all the 157 countries, including a non-observer state, that have recognized Palestine as a state:
[Insert list here]

### Israel’s Reaction to a Majority Recognition

Recognition does not end the war or occupation but strengthens Palestine’s global standing. It enables Palestinians to open embassies with full diplomatic status, pursue trade agreements, gain support at international forums, and approach the International Criminal Court.

Israel dismissed the summit on Palestinian statehood as a “circus.” Israeli UN ambassador Danny Danon said such moves “reward terrorism,” while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the recognition of a Palestinian state as a “prize” for Hamas, insisting it “will not happen.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/which-are-the-157-countries-that-recognise-palestine-as-a-state-heres-the-full-list

Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

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When asked by reporters if he thought NATO should take action against Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, Donald Trump responded affirmatively. “Yes, I do,” Trump said on Tuesday, advocating that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace.

The US President made these comments while speaking to reporters after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

When specifically asked about NATO shoot-downs during his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump reiterated, “Yes, I do.”

In contrast, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte appeared to adopt a more cautious stance, according to a report by US broadcaster CNN. Rutte emphasized that any decision to shoot down aircraft should depend on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the planes.

“This also includes questions we have to answer like intent, armaments, and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians, or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation and the immediate threat the plane poses,” Rutte told CNN following a meeting of NATO states.

The first direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war occurred recently with alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia, and other NATO nations. The CNN report highlighted that these incursions tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russian aggression.

Russian jets allegedly violated Estonian airspace, which prompted Tallinn to call for a meeting among NATO members.

Meanwhile, Trump suggested that Ukraine could achieve more than just reclaiming its lost territory since the war began in February 2022.

“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,” Trump said in a Truth Social post after his meeting with Zelenskyy at the United Nations.

Trump added that Kyiv might even be able to go further than just recovering the country’s original borders, although he did not elaborate on what he meant by that.
https://www.news18.com/world/donald-trump-tells-nato-to-shoot-down-russian-jets-crossing-airspace-in-fresh-jibe-at-putin-ws-kl-9592594.html