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MG has launched the Windsor EV Indulge Edition at ₹17.89 lakh, featuring exclusive styling, rear-seat entertainment and a 332km certified range. By News National Editorial Team JSW MG Motor India has launched the new Windsor EV Indulge Edition at an ex-showroom price of ₹17.89 lakh, adding a more premium version to its electric vehicle lineup. The special edition focuses on cabin comfort, rear-seat entertainment and distinctive styling. The new model features an exclusive golden exterior finish, black alloy wheels and special Indulge badges. Inside, it gets black-and-tan upholstery, a flip-down screen for rear passengers, neck cushions for front occupants and pillows for rear-seat passengers. The Indulge Edition uses the Windsor EV’s smaller 38kWh battery pack. It produces 136hp and 200Nm of torque, with a certified driving range of approximately 332km on a full charge. Actual range may vary depending on driving conditions, traffic, air-conditioning use and driving style. The launch gives buyers another option in India’s growing electric passenger vehicle market, particularly those who prioritise interior comfort and additional entertainment features. However, customers should compare the special edition’s equipment and price with other Windsor variants before making a purchase. The vehicle’s final on-road price will vary by state, registration charges, insurance and applicable local taxes. Interested buyers can contact an authorised MG dealership for availability and delivery details. Sources: Autocar India | JSW MG Motor India

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India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads as Jasprit Bumrah Returns India have announced their squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah returning to the Test team. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has also been selected for the Test series, subject to fitness clearance. The two-Test series is scheduled to begin in Wellington on November 19, followed by the second Test in Christchurch from November 27. India have also announced squads for a five-match ODI series, with Shubman Gill leading the first three matches and Shreyas Iyer captaining the final two. The selections reflect India's preparations for future international competitions, with experienced players retained alongside younger options. Source: Reuters – India announce New Zealand tour squads

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Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna star in Ranabaali, scheduled for worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026. Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna's upcoming period action drama Ranabaali is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026. The film has attracted attention ahead of its arrival, with audiences anticipating the lead pair's reunion on screen. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, Ranabaali is set against the historical backdrop of the Great Famine of 1876–78. The story combines historical elements with a fictional narrative involving resistance against British colonial rule. Vijay Deverakonda plays the title character, while Rashmika Mandanna portrays Jayamma. Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo is also part of the cast. The release date was announced by the makers in August after the film's earlier schedule changed. Promotional material has presented Vijay in a rugged warrior appearance, giving audiences a glimpse of the film's period setting. The film marks another collaboration between Vijay and Rashmika, who previously appeared together in Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade. Their pairing is among the major talking points surrounding the new release. The film is expected to compete for audience attention during a busy period for Indian cinema. Its opening performance will depend on audience response, show availability and competition from other releases. Viewers should check local theatre listings for showtimes and language availability. Source: India Today — Ranabaali release announcement; The Times of India — film preview.

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Bayern Munich host RB Leipzig while Borussia Dortmund visit Union Berlin in the Bundesliga on October 17, 2026. Bundesliga Bayern Munich Face RB Leipzig as Dortmund Visit Union Berlin By News National Editorial Team MUNICH, October 17, 2026: Bayern Munich are scheduled to host RB Leipzig in one of the headline fixtures of the German Bundesliga on Saturday. Borussia Dortmund will also be in action, travelling to face Union Berlin. The Bayern–Leipzig match is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. local time at the Allianz Arena. The contest brings together two clubs with ambitions to compete near the top of German football. Bayern will look to use their home advantage and attacking strength, while Leipzig will aim to challenge the hosts through organised defending and quick transitions. Earlier in the day, Borussia Dortmund are scheduled to face Union Berlin. Other Bundesliga fixtures include Hamburg against Stuttgart, Werder Bremen against Paderborn, Schalke against Mainz and Elversberg against Augsburg. The results could influence the early-season standings as clubs continue their campaigns. Confirmed line-ups, goals and final scores will be important for assessing each team's performance. Source: DFB official Bundesliga match centre

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GFS Pride sank in the Strait of Hormuz with all 21 crew members rescued. Viral footage appearing to show floating iPhones remains unverified. By News National Editorial Team International News | October 16, 2026 A Singapore-flagged container ship, GFS Pride, sank in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by unidentified projectiles and catching fire, according to Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority. All 21 crew members were evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported. The incident attracted further attention after videos circulated on social media appearing to show boxes described as iPhones and bottles of luxury perfume floating in the sea. However, the footage has not been independently verified, and it remains unclear whether the products shown came from the sunken vessel. What Happened to the GFS Pride? According to Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority, GFS Pride was reportedly struck by unknown projectiles while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on October 13, Singapore time. The vessel sustained damage, caught fire and subsequently sank. The authority confirmed that all 21 crew members were evacuated safely. It also reported a separate incident involving GFS Giselle, another Singapore-registered container vessel that sustained hull damage but reached a safe anchorage under its own power. Singapore condemned the attacks on commercial shipping and warned that such incidents endanger vessels and seafarers. What Does the Viral Video Show? Videos shared online appear to show packages and boxes floating in the water, with some posts identifying them as iPhones and expensive perfumes. Other footage appears to show small boats approaching floating goods. However, the authenticity and provenance of the videos remain uncertain. Media reports from India Today and The National said they could not independently confirm where or when the footage was filmed or establish that it was directly connected to the GFS Pride sinking. The ship’s cargo manifest—the official list of goods carried aboard—was not available in the reports reviewed. Therefore, claims about the number of iPhones lost, the brands involved or the financial value of the cargo cannot be confirmed. Was the Ship Hit by a Missile or a Naval Mine? The exact circumstances of the sinking remain disputed. Singapore’s maritime authority reported that the vessel was struck by unidentified projectiles. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed that the ship sank after hitting a naval mine while travelling along a route it described as unauthorised. That explanation has not been independently established by the evidence reviewed. Investigators would need further evidence to determine the precise cause of the sinking and identify responsibility for the incident. Why Is the Strait of Hormuz Important? The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. It is a critical route for international energy shipments and commercial shipping. Attacks on vessels in and around the waterway have raised concerns about crew safety, cargo losses, maritime insurance costs and disruptions to global supply chains. The sinking of a container ship also creates navigational hazards when containers and debris remain in the water. What Is Confirmed So Far? The sinking of GFS Pride and the safe evacuation of its 21 crew members were confirmed by Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority. Reports also confirm that videos purporting to show floating iPhone boxes and perfume circulated online. What remains unconfirmed is whether the products shown in those videos came from GFS Pride, what cargo the ship was carrying when it sank and the precise cause of the incident. Until the footage and cargo information are independently authenticated, claims that thousands of iPhones were lost at sea should be treated with caution. Sources Singapore Maritime and Port Authority — Official statement on GFS Pride and GFS Giselle Reuters — Container ship sinks near Hormuz after being hit by projectile The National — What we know about the ship lost in the Strait of Hormuz India Today — Report on the viral video of apparent iPhones and perfumes

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Rising maritime security risks near the Strait of Hormuz raise concerns over oil shipments, shipping costs and global energy security. By News National Editorial Team INTERNATIONAL, October 15, 2026: Growing security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz are raising questions about the safety of commercial shipping and the stability of global energy supplies. The strategic waterway connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is one of the world's most important routes for transporting crude oil and liquefied natural gas. According to a Reuters report published on October 14, Iranian officials described changes in the country's approach to shipping in the region amid heightened tensions. The situation has renewed concerns among energy markets, shipping companies and governments that rely on uninterrupted maritime trade. Why the Strait of Hormuz matters The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for energy exports from major producers in the Persian Gulf. Before the latest conflict-related disruptions, roughly one-fifth of global oil and petroleum-product consumption passed through the strait, according to international energy estimates. Any significant disruption could force shipping companies to reconsider routes, increase insurance costs and delay deliveries. Even when vessels continue operating, the risk of attacks or restrictions can raise transportation expenses. Higher shipping costs may contribute to increased energy prices, although the actual effect depends on the duration and severity of any disruption, global demand, available supplies and market expectations. Security tensions affect commercial shipping The wider regional conflict has increased attention on maritime security and the possibility that commercial vessels could become caught in military confrontations. Shipping operators must assess threats to crews, vessels and cargo before deciding whether to enter or leave the area. Governments and maritime-security organisations are monitoring developments as they consider measures to protect navigation. Reports about changes in Iran's maritime tactics require careful interpretation. The precise scope of any new measures and their impact on shipping should be established through further reporting and official statements. Potential implications for India India is a major importer of crude oil, making the security of international energy routes an important economic concern. A prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could increase costs for oil imports, tanker insurance and transportation. Higher international crude prices can place pressure on India's trade balance and influence domestic inflation, depending on exchange rates, government taxes, fuel-pricing decisions and the response of oil companies. However, a rise in global oil prices does not automatically translate into an equivalent or immediate increase in retail petrol and diesel prices in India. Domestic pricing is affected by several additional factors. Global energy security remains a priority The latest tensions highlight the close relationship between regional security and the international economy. Governments, energy companies and shipping operators must consider not only immediate supply disruptions but also the longer-term resilience of trade routes. Diplomatic efforts, maritime safety measures and developments in the regional conflict will influence the outlook for shipping and energy markets. For countries that depend heavily on imported fuel, maintaining diversified supply sources and monitoring geopolitical risks remain important parts of energy planning. Source for verification: Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-shifting-tactics-step-up-attacks-shipping-before-us-vote-officials-say-2026-10-14/

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CJP announces an October 16 Delhi tricolour march after two leaders are jailed, amid demands for electoral transparency and the CEC's resignation. Why Is CJP Protesting Again? Delhi Tricolour March Follows Arrest of Two Leaders By News National Editorial Team NEW DELHI, October 15, 2026: The youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has announced another demonstration in New Delhi for October 16, following the detention of two of its leaders, Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das. The proposed “Lehra Do Tiranga” march is scheduled to take place at Central Park in Connaught Place at 5 p.m., according to reports published by The Economic Times and Hindustan Times. The announcement comes amid protests over revisions to India's electoral rolls and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. CJP says the electoral process needs greater transparency and has vowed to continue its campaign despite the detention of its leaders. Why is CJP organising another protest? The immediate trigger is the detention of Ranka and Das, who were sent to five days of judicial custody after an incident at Jantar Mantar on October 13. According to police, the two leaders and other activists entered the site after crossing barricades. Authorities said Jantar Mantar was no longer an officially designated protest venue and cited alleged violations of earlier undertakings to maintain peace. CJP has disputed the action against its members. Founder Abhijeet Dipke said the organisation would continue its campaign and called on supporters to gather with the national flag. The planned march is intended to draw attention to the detention and the party's wider demands. What does CJP want? The party's principal demand is the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. CJP and other critics have questioned the removal of names from voter lists and raised concerns about the potential exclusion of eligible voters. Reuters reported that more than 130 million names were removed during the revision process, including people recorded as deceased, people who had relocated and individuals who could not be traced. The Election Commission has denied favouring any political party and says voters whose names were wrongly deleted can re-enrol. The BJP has rejected allegations that the process is intended to benefit the ruling party. The claims of deliberate electoral manipulation remain contested. What has CJP lost? The organisation's immediate setback is the detention of two prominent leaders, limiting their ability to participate directly in the campaign while they remain in custody. The arrests have also increased the legal and organisational challenges facing the movement. However, the party has not announced a financial loss associated with the incident. Its stated concerns centre on electoral transparency, the treatment of its members and the right to organise demonstrations. The dispute also raises a broader question: how can citizens raise concerns about electoral administration while complying with police restrictions and the law governing public gatherings? What is planned for October 16? Dipke has called for supporters to assemble at Central Park in Connaught Place at 5 p.m. on Friday, October 16, carrying the Indian national flag. He has also appealed to supporters who cannot travel to Delhi to organise marches in their own cities. The announcement does not establish whether Delhi Police has granted permission for the event. Organisers and potential attendees should check official updates for any changes to the location, timing or applicable restrictions. The proposed demonstration could renew public attention on the electoral-roll controversy and the detention of CJP leaders. Its outcome will depend on participation, the organisers' decisions and the response of authorities. News National will continue to monitor official statements, court developments and reliable reporting for confirmed updates. Sources: Reuters — CJP leaders sent to five days in custody The Economic Times — CJP announces October 16 protest Hindustan Times — Tricolour march announcement The Guardian — Voter-list revision controversy

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The EU–GCC summit scheduled for October 24 in Riyadh has been postponed amid security concerns and disruptions to airport operations. EU–Gulf Summit Postponed as Regional Security Concerns Escalate The European Union (EU) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have postponed their joint summit scheduled for October 24, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, amid growing security concerns in the region. The decision was announced on October 15. The summit was expected to bring together representatives of the two regional organisations to discuss political cooperation, economic relations, regional stability and shared strategic interests. A new date has not yet been announced. In its official statement, the GCC cited continued threats against Saudi Arabia and the extended suspension of flight operations at King Khalid International Airport. It said the decision was taken with the safety of participating delegations in mind. The European Council separately confirmed that the summit had been postponed and that a new date would be announced in due course. Security Concerns Affect Diplomatic Travel The postponement comes amid heightened tensions involving the Iran-aligned Houthi movement and Saudi Arabia. Reuters reported that attacks and threats have raised concerns about the safety of air travel to and from the kingdom. The disruption to airport operations is particularly significant for a major international summit, which requires the secure and reliable movement of government leaders, diplomats, officials and support teams. The GCC’s announcement identified security and aviation concerns as the reasons for rescheduling. The EU’s public statement did not provide a separate explanation for the postponement. Why the Summit Matters The EU and the GCC represent important economic and diplomatic groupings. The EU includes 27 member states, while the GCC comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Their cooperation covers trade, investment, energy, transport, climate policy, regional security and people-to-people links. Gulf countries are important partners for Europe in energy markets and regional diplomacy, while European businesses and institutions maintain extensive commercial and investment relationships across the Gulf. The summit was also intended to build on the first EU–GCC summit held in October 2024. Postponing the meeting delays an opportunity for senior officials to discuss common priorities at a time when regional security is a major concern. However, postponement does not mean that the wider partnership has been cancelled. The European Council has reiterated the strategic importance of relations with the Gulf region and its commitment to deepening cooperation. The two organisations will need to agree on a new date and ensure that travel and security conditions allow the meeting to take place. The timing will depend on consultations between the EU and GCC and the broader regional situation. The postponement also illustrates how security disruptions can affect international diplomacy, even when countries remain committed to cooperation. Businesses, energy markets and governments will continue to watch developments in the Gulf because instability can influence transport, trade and investment decisions. Editorial Note: The postponement and the absence of a new date were confirmed in official EU and GCC statements published on October 15, 2026. Details about the security situation are based on media reporting and should be updated as verified information becomes available. By News National Editorial Team Reference Websites European Council — Official announcement on rescheduling the EU–GCC Summit Gulf Cooperation Council — Official statement Reuters — EU and Gulf states postpone summit in Saudi Arabia

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The rupee strengthened to ₹95.055 per dollar on October 15, while India's merchandise trade deficit widened to $30.21 billion in September. Rupee Gains Against the Dollar Despite Rising Trade Deficit The Indian rupee strengthened against the US dollar on October 15, 2026, even as new government data showed that India’s merchandise trade deficit widened in September. The rupee closed at approximately ₹95.055 per US dollar, gaining around 0.1% during the session, according to Reuters. The currency’s improvement was supported by a weaker US dollar, lower oil prices, gains in Indian equities and possible intervention by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). At the same time, India’s merchandise trade deficit increased to $30.21 billion in September from $26.86 billion in August. The figures highlight the challenges facing India’s external trade position, even as the currency recorded short-term gains. Why Did the Rupee Strengthen? Several factors contributed to the rupee’s movement during the session. A weaker US dollar can provide relief to emerging-market currencies, including the rupee. Lower international oil prices can also help India because the country relies heavily on imported crude oil to meet domestic energy demand. When oil prices fall, the amount of foreign currency required to pay for imports may decrease, depending on import volumes and contract prices. This can reduce some of the pressure on the rupee. Indian equity markets also recorded strong gains during the session, supporting market sentiment. Reuters reported that possible central-bank intervention was another factor behind the currency’s movement. However, a single day’s appreciation does not establish a lasting trend. The rupee remains sensitive to crude prices, global interest rates, foreign investment flows, trade payments and geopolitical developments. India’s Trade Deficit Widens India’s merchandise trade deficit reached $30.21 billion in September, compared with $26.86 billion in August, according to government trade data reported by Reuters and other financial news outlets. The deficit represents the difference between the value of merchandise imports and merchandise exports. A wider deficit means that the value of imported goods exceeded exports by a larger amount during the reporting period. India’s merchandise exports rose by approximately 23% in September, but imports increased more rapidly, causing the trade gap to widen. Higher oil costs and supply-chain disruptions were among the pressures identified in reporting on the trade figures. A merchandise trade deficit should not be confused with the current-account deficit. The current account also includes services trade, income flows and transfers, so it provides a broader picture of the country’s external transactions. What Does This Mean for Businesses and Consumers? Currency movements can affect businesses differently depending on their exposure to imports and exports. Importers: Companies purchasing crude oil, electronics, machinery, chemicals and other goods priced in dollars may face higher rupee costs when the domestic currency weakens. A stronger rupee can ease some of this pressure, although the actual effect depends on contracts, hedging and global prices. Exporters: Indian exporters receiving payments in US dollars may earn fewer rupees when the rupee strengthens, if dollar revenues and other factors remain unchanged. However, exporters also benefit from imported inputs becoming cheaper when the rupee appreciates. Consumers: Changes in the exchange rate and international commodity prices can influence the cost of fuel, transport, electronics and other imported products. The impact on retail prices is not immediate or uniform because taxes, distribution costs and pricing decisions also matter. Investors: Currency fluctuations can affect foreign portfolio investments, company earnings and returns on overseas investments. Investors should assess these risks alongside company fundamentals and broader economic conditions. RBI Policy and the Outlook The Reserve Bank of India has introduced measures intended to manage pressure in the foreign-exchange market. Reuters has reported that recent regulatory measures have affected the cost and availability of currency hedging. Hedging allows companies and financial institutions to reduce uncertainty about future exchange rates. When hedging becomes more expensive, businesses with dollar liabilities may face higher costs for managing currency risk. The rupee’s near-term direction will depend on several factors, including global oil prices, US monetary policy, foreign capital flows, export performance and the RBI’s actions. The widening trade deficit is an important indicator, but it should be considered alongside services exports, foreign investment, remittances and the country’s overall balance of payments. The rupee’s gain on October 15 provided some short-term relief, but September’s wider merchandise trade deficit shows that India continues to face external trade pressures. The coming months will be important in determining whether stronger exports, more stable energy prices and capital inflows can help support the currency and improve the country’s external position. Editorial Note: Exchange-rate and trade-deficit figures in this article are based on reports published on October 15, 2026. The rupee rate is a reported closing rate and may differ from bank, card or money-transfer rates. Figures and explanations should be checked against the latest RBI and Ministry of Commerce releases before publication. By News National Editorial Team Reference Websites Reuters — Indian rupee extends winning streak The Economic Times — India’s September trade deficit widens to $30.21 billion Reserve Bank of India — Official website Department of Commerce, Government of India

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Albania Student Protests Escalate as Education Ministry Catches Fire in Tirana By News National Editorial Team TIRANA, Albania, October 14, 2026: Student-led protests in Albania escalated into violent clashes with police this week, as demonstrators in the capital, Tirana, demanded improvements to the public education system and called for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign. A fire broke out at the Education Ministry building, while banks and other properties were also damaged during the unrest. According to reports by Reuters and the Associated Press, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters. Demonstrators threw stones, set fire to street barricades and damaged nearby businesses. The unrest has intensified political tensions in the country, where dissatisfaction over alleged corruption and government policies has fuelled a broader anti-government movement. Why are students protesting? Students have raised concerns about university conditions, rising higher-education costs, limited financial assistance and a lack of employment opportunities after graduation. For many young people, the demonstrations reflect broader anxieties about their economic future and the government's response to public concerns. What began as protests over education has increasingly intersected with wider demands for political accountability. The demonstrations have also become linked to the so-called “Flamingo Revolution,” a protest movement that has challenged the government over alleged corruption and a controversial luxury tourism development proposed for Albania's southern coast. The project has attracted scrutiny because of its reported links to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. Protesters have questioned transparency and the handling of the development, while the wider movement has called for Rama's resignation. Police response and arrests Authorities used riot-control measures as confrontations continued for a second consecutive day. The Associated Press reported that police said 23 people were detained overnight and that six police officers and one journalist were injured during the clashes. Reuters reported fires at the Education Ministry and two banks, including a Raiffeisen Bank branch. The scale of the damage and the continuing demonstrations have raised concerns about public safety and the protection of government and commercial buildings. Albanian Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu condemned violence and vandalism while maintaining that peaceful protest is a legitimate right. Police also urged calm and warned that individuals responsible for attacks on officers or the destruction of property could face legal consequences. Wider political implications The protests present a challenge for Rama's government as student grievances merge with a broader debate about corruption, governance and economic opportunity. The demonstrations also show how concerns about public services can develop into wider political movements when protesters believe their demands are not being addressed. The immediate situation remains fluid. Further developments will depend on the government's response, police actions, student organisers' decisions and whether demonstrations continue in Tirana and other Albanian cities. News National will continue to monitor verified developments and update this report when reliable new information becomes available. Sources: Reuters, Associated Press and Al Jazeera. Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/fire-breaks-out-albanias-education-ministry-during-student-protest-2026-10-14/ Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/0d94664379a2b470a1f7d95429c4e446 Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/10/14/fire-erupts-at-albanias-education-ministry-as-protests-enter-third-day

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Vijayawada police strengthen security and crowd management for Moola Vijayawada, October 16: The NTR District Police have made extensive security arrangements in view of the expected influx of devotees to the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam in Vijayawada on the occasion of Moola Nakshatram during the Dasara Sharannavaratri celebrations. Goddess Kanaka Durga is scheduled to appear in the Sri Saraswati Devi Alankaram, attracting large numbers of devotees seeking her blessings. Vijayawada City Police Commissioner S. V. Rajasekhara Babu, IPS, has issued directions to police officials to ensure effective security, orderly queue management and the smooth movement of devotees. Special Arrangements for Crowd Management With a significant turnout expected on Moola Nakshatram, the police have focused on managing queues and preventing overcrowding. Special queue arrangements are being organised to help devotees proceed towards darshan in an orderly manner. The police control room will be used for continuous monitoring of the situation. Personnel deployed on duty have been instructed to remain alert, respond promptly to crowd-related issues and coordinate with other teams to maintain security. The Police Commissioner also emphasised that officers and staff must behave politely with devotees and provide appropriate guidance whenever required. Ordinary Devotees to Receive Priority The main objective of the security arrangements is to ensure that every devotee can have a peaceful and orderly darshan of the Goddess. The Commissioner directed police officials to give priority to ordinary devotees and take necessary measures to prevent inconvenience during the darshan process. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among personnel to manage the expected rush and avoid any untoward incidents. The arrangements are intended to maintain discipline, protect devotees and ensure the smooth conduct of the festival during one of the important days of the Dasara celebrations. Police Appeal to Devotees The NTR District Police have appealed to devotees to follow the instructions issued by police personnel and cooperate with the security teams. Devotees have been advised to maintain discipline in queues, avoid rushing in crowded areas and follow the directions of on-duty personnel. Cooperation from the public will help authorities manage the crowds more effectively and provide a safer environment for worshippers. With a large number of devotees expected to visit the temple on Moola Nakshatram, security and crowd management remain key priorities for the police. The department aims to facilitate a peaceful darshan experience while ensuring the safety and convenience of all devotees. By News National Editorial Team

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Azerbaijani artist Tünzale Memmedzade spent three years creating a handwritten Qur’an on 50 metres of black silk using gold and silver ink. Azerbaijani Artist Creates Extraordinary Qur’an Manuscript on Black Silk Using Gold and Silver Ink International News | News National Azerbaijan: Azerbaijani artist Tünzale Memmedzade has attracted international attention for creating an extraordinary handwritten edition of the Holy Qur’an on transparent black silk using gold and silver ink. The remarkable project took approximately three years to complete and required around 50 metres of delicate silk fabric. Combining traditional Islamic calligraphy with artistic innovation, the work demonstrates exceptional patience, precision and dedication. The project also highlights how historical artistic traditions can be explored through unconventional materials while preserving the importance of the sacred text. Historical Research Inspired the Unique Project Memmedzade’s idea developed from her research into the materials historically used to produce Qur’anic manuscripts. Her interest in the history of sacred texts led her to explore silk as an alternative medium for presenting the complete Qur’an. After considering the distinctive qualities of silk, including its delicate texture and transparency, she selected black silk for the project. Working on such a fragile material presented challenges that required careful planning and sustained concentration. Unlike ordinary paper, transparent silk requires particular attention to the placement and consistency of each letter. The artist had to work carefully to maintain the appearance, alignment and legibility of the calligraphy throughout the manuscript. Gold and Silver Ink Bring the Calligraphy to Life One of the most striking features of the artwork is the use of gold and silver ink against the black silk background. The contrast between the dark, transparent fabric and the metallic lettering gives the manuscript a distinctive visual character. To ensure accuracy, Memmedzade used an officially approved Turkish edition of the Qur’an as her reference. Her work combined attention to the sacred text with the artistic discipline required to reproduce its passages carefully across an unusually long surface. The project involved approximately 50 metres of silk and took around three years to complete. Each section required painstaking manual work, making patience and consistency essential throughout the process. The result represents a meeting point between religious manuscript traditions and contemporary artistic expression. International Recognition and Interest in Islamic Art The artwork has attracted international attention, bringing renewed interest to the possibilities of Islamic calligraphy and the artistic presentation of the Qur’an. The Smithsonian Institution’s Arthur M. Sackler Gallery in Washington, D.C., is known for exhibitions exploring Asian art and Islamic artistic traditions. In 2016, the gallery presented The Art of the Qur’an, an exhibition examining the historical and artistic significance of Qur’anic manuscripts. Although Memmedzade’s silk Qur’an has been associated with international interest in Islamic art, its specific exhibition history should be confirmed through the relevant museum records before stating that the manuscript itself was displayed at the Sackler Gallery. A Testament to Patience, Craftsmanship and Tradition Islamic calligraphy is more than decorative writing. It represents a longstanding artistic tradition in which the presentation of sacred text requires precision, discipline and respect for the written word. Memmedzade’s project introduces an unusual material into this tradition while retaining the central importance of careful transcription. The use of transparent silk and metallic inks gives the manuscript a distinctive appearance without changing the fundamental purpose of the work: presenting the text of the Holy Qur’an. The three-year undertaking also demonstrates the level of dedication required to complete a large-scale handcrafted artwork. It highlights the importance of historical research, material experimentation and technical skill in preserving and reinterpreting traditional art forms. Through this creation, Memmedzade has brought together cultural heritage, religious calligraphy and individual artistic vision in a work that continues to attract interest from audiences fascinated by the intersection of art, history and faith. By News National Editorial Team Sources University of Hamburg — The Silk Qur’an Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art — The Art of the Qur’an exhibition

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