China on Monday confirmed that US President Donald Trump will visit Beijing from May 13 to May 15 for high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Trump China visit will be the first trip to China during Trump’s second term and is expected to focus on improving strained trade relations between the world’s two largest economies. The meeting comes at a time when global tensions, tariff disputes and concerns over economic stability continue to affect international markets and poli

Vijay Deverakonda, tunrs 37 today, May 9th. One of India’s most celebrated actors, has journeyed from humble beginnings as a theatre artist to becoming a household name in both Tollywood and Bollywood. Born to TV director Govardhan Rao, Deverakonda’s path to stardom wasn’t an easy one. After completing his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Badruka College of Commerce & Arts, he began his acting career in theatre, joining a Hyderabad-based group where he performed in numerous plays. H

China Hands Suspended Death Sentences to Former Defence Ministers China has sentenced former defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu to death with a two-year reprieve in a major PLA corruption case, state media reported Thursday. The ruling marks one of the harshest punishments against senior Chinese military figures in years and signals that President Xi Jinping’s anti-graft campaign

The feud between US President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV has flared up once again. The latest clash revolves around Trump’s repeated claims that the Pope supports Iran’s right to develop nuclear weapons. This accusation has been vigorously denied by the Vatican, with Pope Leo XIV offering a sharp rebuke. The Pope emphasized his long-standing position on nuclear disarmament and global peace, making it clear that his message remains consistent despite the President's accusations. Trump’s Accusations Against the Pope In an interview with Hugh Hewitt of Salem News Channel, President Trump reiterated his controversial claim that Pope Leo XIV condones Iran's nuclear ambitions. Trump said, "The pope would rather talk about the fact that it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon, and I don’t think that’s very good." He continued, "I think he's endangering a lot of Catholics, and a lot of people, but I guess if it’s up to the pope, he thinks it’s just fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon." This repeated assertion has been a part of Trump's rhetoric, even though the Pope has never publicly supported such a view. Pope Leo XIV's Rejection of the Claim Without directly naming Trump, Pope Leo XIV responded firmly, rejecting the accusations. "If anyone wants to criticise me for proclaiming the Gospel, let them do so truthfully," he said in a statement. The Pope's message was unequivocal: the mission of the Church is to preach peace, and it has always opposed the proliferation of nuclear weapons. He reminded the world that the Catholic Church has long advocated for a world free from nuclear threats. The Pope has been vocal about the need for diplomacy over conflict, urging political leaders to engage in dialogue rather than pursue rearmament. The Pope’s remarks were a clear message to those who misinterpret his calls for peace. The Catholic Church has continuously voiced its opposition to nuclear weapons, and Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed that stance, urging global leaders to focus on peaceful solutions to international conflicts. A Notable Timing: Rubio’s Visit to the Vatican The timing of this ongoing dispute is particularly interesting, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Rome this week. Rubio will meet with Pope Leo XIV on Thursday to discuss a range of topics, including the situation in the Middle East. The State Department has positioned this visit as an opportunity to explore mutual interests and discuss pressing global issues. However, with the current tensions surrounding Iran and nuclear weapons, this meeting is likely to be complicated by the feud between Trump and the Pope. Pope Leo XIV's Message for Global Peace Despite the political tensions, Pope Leo XIV has remained focused on his core message: peace. The Pope has consistently called for a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons, advocating for leaders to sit at the table of dialogue and diplomacy. His call for peace was reiterated during a recent gathering at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he urged Catholics to prioritize dialogue over violence. In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV urged global leaders to focus on diplomacy and avoid the path of rearmament. He emphasized the importance of peaceful negotiations, saying, "It is time for peace! Sit at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned, and deadly actions are decided." This sentiment reflects the Pope’s long-standing commitment to nuclear disarmament and peaceful resolutions to international disputes. As the tension between Trump and the Pope continues to unfold, the world will be watching closely. The clash underscores the ongoing challenges in navigating political and religious divides, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like nuclear weapons and international peace. However, Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to peace and diplomacy remains unwavering, and his stance continues to influence global discussions on nuclear disarmament.

A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s Hunan province on Monday (May 4) has tragically killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others, according to state media reports. The explosion occurred at the Changsha Liuyang Huasheng Fireworks plant in the city of Liuyang, a major hub for the country’s fireworks industry. Videos circulating online showed thick grey smoke rising high into the sky, with the intensity of the blast visibly shaking nearby structures. Chinese

Cinco de Mayo Austin 2026: What’s Happening Today Austin’s Cinco de Mayo 2026 celebrations are in full swing today, May 5, with citywide events, food specials, and nightlife drawing thousands across Central Texas. From cultural showcases to late-night parties, the city offers one of the most diverse Cinco de Mayo experiences in the U.S. Cultural Events & Daytime Highlights The celebration began with a packed weekend f

Vijay’s political debut is shaping into a potential game changer, with an Axis My India exit poll projecting a stunning performance for his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu. The survey suggests a major shift in the state’s political landscape, long dominated by two major Dravidian parties. According to the Axis My India exit poll, TVK is projected to win between 98 and 120 seats in the 234-member Assembly, placing it on par with the ruling alliance led by M. K. Stalin. The DMK-INC alliance is estimated to secure 92 to 110 seats, while the NDA alliance trails behind with 22 to 32 seats. The vote share projections are equally striking. TVK is expected to secure around 35 percent of the vote, matching the ruling bloc and leaving the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led alliance significantly behind. These numbers indicate that TVK is not merely a spoiler but a serious contender for power. Axis My India chief Pradeep Gupta compared Vijay’s rise to that of legendary leaders MGR and NTR, hinting at a historic political transformation if the projections hold true. The exit poll data points to a strong youth-driven surge behind TVK. Around 68 percent of first-time voters aged 18 to 19 and 59 percent in the 20 to 29 age group are estimated to have supported the party. This demographic advantage has helped TVK build momentum quickly across urban and semi-urban constituencies. The central theme driving support appears to be the demand for change. A significant portion of voters cited this as their primary reason, with even higher numbers among TVK supporters. Vijay’s personal appeal has also played a key role, blending celebrity influence with political messaging. TVK’s support base cuts across caste, class and geography, making it a broad-based movement rather than a niche political force. The party has gained traction among OBC, SC and minority communities, as well as both rural and urban voters. With Vijay emerging as the preferred chief ministerial candidate for many voters, slightly ahead of Stalin in the survey, the state’s political contest appears tighter than ever. While exit polls can be unpredictable, the data signals one clear trend: Tamil Nadu may be witnessing the rise of a powerful new political force.

A poll of exit polls for the 2026 assembly elections across key states indicates a mixed political landscape, with different parties gaining ground in different regions. While the Bharatiya Janata Party is projected to dominate Assam, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam is expected to retain power in Tam

Exit poll predicts NDA sweeping Assam with 88 to 100 seats in Assembly elections. BJP-led alliance likely to secure third consecutive term with strong vote share lead. The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance is poised for a decisive victory in the Assam Assemb

The UAE will exit OPEC on May 1 after nearly six decades, aiming for greater control over oil production and energy strategy. The move may weaken OPEC’s influence, raise concerns about supply coordination, and reshape global oil market dynamics. UAE to exit OPEC, signaling shift in global oil power balance is set to take effect May 1, marking a major change in the structure of global energy coordination. The decision reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to gai

Hours after the US Justice Department announced the lifting of the federal moratorium on capital punishment and the reinstatement of firing squad executions, Pope Leo XIV issued a strongly worded message condemning the death penalty. Delivered through a video address to DePaul University in Chicago, the Pope’s remarks coincided with the 15th anniversary of Illinois abolishing capital punishment, underscoring the significance of the moment. In his message, Pope Leo XIV emphasized t

Álvaro Fidalgo Returns to Start for Real Betis vs Real Madrid After 4-Game Absence Real Betis have received a timely boost ahead of their clash against Real Madrid, with Mexican midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo returning to the starting lineup after a four-match absence in LaLiga. The 27-year-old, who joined Betis in January, had been out of league action in recent weeks but now gets an opportunity to make an impact in one of the biggest fixtures of the season. What Happened

The Xi Jinping Hormuz statement has drawn global attention as China’s leader called for the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz. The move comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East and highlights China’s delicate balancing act between strategic alliances and economic interests. What happened and why it matters On Monday, April 20, 2026, Chin

A serious ground incident at Indira Gandhi International Airport has raised fresh concerns over aviation safety after a SpiceJet aircraft collided with a stationary Akasa Air plane while taxiing on Thursday. The

Chirag Madaan, a 24-year-old graduate from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, has ignited a broader conversation about toxic corporate environments after deciding to quit his high-paying banking job. Despite earning nearly Rs 17 lakh per annum, Madaan chose to walk away from a career in the corporate banking sector due to the mounting stress, poor work-life balance, and lack of basic workplace rights. In a now-viral clip, Madaan explained that his decision w

A nationwide recall has been issued for a specific lot of the widely prescribed anxiety medication Xanax after federal regulators identified a potential quality issue that could affect how the drug performs in patients. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, pharmaceutical company Viatris initiated a voluntary recall on Monday, March 17, 2025. The recall involves one lot of extended-release tablets that failed to meet required dissolution specifications, a standa

Washington, April 13 — The Vatican issued a measured but firm response Monday after criticism from the US president targeting Pope Leo XIV, just days before the pontiff is set to embark on a high-profile visit to Africa. The remarks followed statements by the US president on April 12, in which he questioned the Pope’s stance on issues including global economic equity and migration, and criticized his broader approach to international affairs. The comments come as the Vatican prepa

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, April 12, 2026, warned that the United States could impose steep new tariffs on China if Beijing is found to be providing military assistance to Iran during the ongoing West As

A meeting between officials from the U.S. Department of Defense and the Vatican has drawn scrutiny after sharply conflicting accounts emerged, raising questions about diplomatic tensions between Washington and the Holy See during an escalating global crisis. According to a source close to Pope Leo XIV, the meeting involving Cardinal Christophe Pierre was described as confrontational. Separate reports characterized the exchange as a stern warning emphasizing U.S. military strength and urging alignment with American policy. However, Pentagon officials strongly disputed that portrayal, stating the discussion was respectful and constructive, underscoring a commitment to continued dialogue with the Vatican. Adding to the conflicting narratives, Vatican ambassador Brian Burch stated on Thursday that Cardinal Pierre rejected media reports describing the meeting as hostile, calling them fabricated. He said the meeting, which occurred two months earlier, was “frank and cordial,” suggesting that accounts of tension may have been overstated. The dispute comes amid increasingly pointed remarks from Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff from Chicago, who has taken an unusually direct stance on the ongoing conflict involving Iran. On Tuesday, the pope criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning of severe consequences for Iran, calling such rhetoric “truly unacceptable” and warning that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law. In recent appeals, Leo has urged global leaders and citizens to pursue peace and avoid further escalation, particularly in a conflict he described as unjust and destabilizing. He also encouraged individuals to contact political leaders and advocate against actions targeting civilians, emphasizing the moral and legal implications of such strategies. The Vatican’s concerns extend beyond Iran, particularly to Lebanon, where renewed fighting involving Israeli forces and Hezbollah has intensified instability. Church officials have expressed alarm over the impact on Christian communities in southern Lebanon, which hold significant importance for the region’s religious presence. The broader geopolitical situation remains fragile. A ceasefire related to the Iran conflict appeared uncertain after Iran moved to close the Strait of Hormuz following Israeli strikes in Lebanon, prompting renewed calls from the White House to maintain open waterways and continue peace negotiations. While both the Pentagon and Vatican have emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue, the divergence in accounts surrounding their recent meeting highlights the complexity of diplomatic relations during a period of heightened global tension.

You might be receiving the same CTC as before, but a closer look at your bank account could reveal that your take-home pay has dropped. This change is likely due to the new 50% wage rule, which has been introduced under India's revised Labour Codes. While the Cost to Company (CTC) remains unchanged, this rule is quietly reshaping how salaries are structured, particularly the proportion allocated to basic pay, dearness allowance, and retaining allowance. Under the new rule, basic pay