The Indian Panorama

Month: May 2025

  • Memorial Day: Honoring the Fallen Heroes of the United States

    Memorial Day: Honoring the Fallen Heroes of the United States

    American people are grateful to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Today, we remember and honor their selfless service. We remember on this day every hero who selflessly shed their patriot’s blood for our freedom. May their sacrifices be a constant reminder of the cost of liberty!
    God bless our heroes! God bless America!

    Memorial Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is observed on the last Monday of May each year. It serves as a solemn occasion to honor and remember the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who died in military service to the nation. More than just a long weekend or the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day is rooted in a deep sense of national gratitude and historical remembrance.
    Memorial Day 2025 falls on Monday, May 26.
    Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.
    The Birthplace of Memorial Day and Early Observances

    The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries.
    By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.
    It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the Confederacy surrendered in 1865. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day.
    Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.
    Decoration Day
    On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.
    The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.
    On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there.
    Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday. Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor the dead on separate days until after World War I.
    History of Memorial Day
    Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, The Vietnam War, The Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
    For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.
    Memorial Day Traditions
    Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.
    Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. Some people wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.
    What Do People Do?
    It is traditional to fly the flag of the United States at half staff from dawn until noon. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries. Memorial Day is combined with Jefferson Davis’ Birthday in Mississippi.
    Memorial Day has become less of an occasion of remembrance. Many people choose to hold picnics, sports events and family gatherings on this weekend. This day is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season for cultural events. For the fashion conscious, it is seen as acceptable to wear white clothing, particularly shoes from Memorial Day until Labor Day. However, fewer and fewer people follow this rule and many wear white clothing throughout the year.
    Public Life
    Memorial Day is a federal holiday. All non-essential Government offices are closed, as are schools, businesses and other organizations. Most public transit systems do not run on their regular schedule. Many people see Memorial Day weekend as an opportunity to go on a short vacation or visit family or friends. This can cause some congestion on highways and at airports.
    Memorial Day and its traditions may have ancient roots
    While the first commemorative Memorial Day events weren’t held in the United States until the late 19th century, the practice of honoring those who have fallen in battle dates back thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans held annual days of remembrance for loved ones (including soldiers) each year, festooning their graves with flowers and holding public festivals and feasts in their honor. In Athens, public funerals for fallen soldiers were held after each battle, with the remains of the dead on display for public mourning before a funeral procession took them to their internment in the Kerameikos, one of the city’s most prestigious cemeteries. One of the first known public tributes to war dead was in 431 B.C., when the Athenian general and statesman Pericles delivered a funeral oration praising the sacrifice and valor of those killed in the Peloponnesian War—a speech that some have compared in tone to Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
    One of the earliest commemorations was organized by recently freed African Americans.
    As the Civil War neared its end, thousands of Union soldiers, held as prisoners of war, were herded into a series of hastily assembled camps in Charleston, South Carolina. Conditions at one camp, a former racetrack near the city’s Citadel, were so bad that more than 250 prisoners died from disease or exposure, and were buried in a mass grave behind the track’s grandstand.
    Three weeks after the Confederate surrender, an unusual procession entered the former camp: On May 1, 1865, more than 1,000 people recently freed from enslavement, accompanied by regiments of the U.S. Colored Troops (including the Massachusetts 54th Infantry) and a handful of white Charlestonians, gathered in the camp to consecrate a new, proper burial site for the Union dead. The group sang hymns, gave readings and distributed flowers around the cemetery, which they dedicated to the “Martyrs of the Race Course.”
    The holiday’s ‘founder’ had a long and distinguished career
    In May 1868, General John A. Logan, the commander-in-chief of the Union veterans’ group known as the Grand Army of the Republic, issued a decree that May 30 should become a nationwide day of commemoration for the more than 620,000 soldiers killed in the recently ended Civil War. On Decoration Day, as Logan dubbed it, Americans should lay flowers and decorate the graves of the war dead “whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”
    According to legend, Logan chose May 30 because it was a rare day that didn’t fall on the anniversary of a Civil War battle, though some historians believe the date was selected to ensure that flowers across the country would be in full bloom.
    After the war Logan, who had served as a U.S. congressman before resigning to rejoin the army, returned to his political career, eventually serving in both the House and Senate and was the unsuccessful Republican candidate for vice president in 1884. When he died two years later, Logan’s body laid in state in the rotunda of the United States Capitol, making him one of just 33 people to have received the honor. Today, Washington, D.C.’s Logan Circle and several townships across the country are named in honor of this champion of veterans and those killed in battle.
    Logan probably adapted the idea
    from earlier events in the South
    Even before the war ended, women’s groups across much of the South were gathering informally to decorate the graves of Confederate dead. In April 1886, the Ladies Memorial Association of Columbus, Georgia resolved to commemorate the fallen once a year—a decision that seems to have influenced John Logan to follow suit, according to his own wife. However, southern commemorations were rarely held on one standard day, with observations differing by state and spread out across much of the spring and early summer. It’s a tradition that continues today: Nine southern states officially recognize a Confederate Memorial Day, with events held on Confederate President Jefferson Davis’ birthday, the day on which General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson was killed, or to commemorate other symbolic events.
    It didn’t become a federal holiday until 1971
    Americans embraced the notion of “Decoration Day” immediately. That first year, more than 27 states held some sort of ceremony, with more than 5,000 people in attendance at a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. By 1890, every former state of the Union had adopted it as an official holiday. But for more than 50 years, the holiday was used to commemorate those killed just in the Civil War, not in any other American conflict. It wasn’t until America’s entry into World War I that the tradition was expanded to include those killed in all wars, and Memorial Day was not officially recognized nationwide until the 1970s, with America deeply embroiled in the Vietnam War.
    It was a long road from Decoration Day to an official Memorial Day
    Although the term Memorial Day was used beginning in the 1880s, the holiday was officially known as Decoration Day for more than a century, when it was changed by federal law. Four years later, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 finally went into effect, moving Memorial Day from its traditional observance on May 30 (regardless of the day of the week), to a set day—the last Monday in May. The move has not been without controversy, though. Veterans groups, concerned that more Americans associate the holiday with first long weekend of the summer and not its intended purpose to honor the nation’s war dead, continue to lobby for a return to the May 30 observances. For more than 20 years, their cause was championed by Hawaiian Senator—and decorated World War II veteran—Daniel Inouye, who until his 2012 death reintroduced legislation in support of the change at the start of every Congressional term.
    More than 20 towns claim to be the holiday’s ‘birthplace’—but only one has federal recognition
    For almost as long as there’s been a holiday, there’s been a rivalry about who celebrated it first. Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, bases its claim on an 1864 gathering of women to mourn those recently killed at Gettysburg. In Carbondale, Illinois, they’re certain that they were first, thanks to an 1866 parade led, in part, by John Logan who two years later would lead the charge for an official holiday. There are even two dueling Columbus challengers (one in Mississippi, the other in Georgia) who have battled it out for Memorial Day supremacy for decades. Only one town, however, has received the official seal of approval from the U.S. government. In 1966, 100 years after the town of Waterloo, New York, shuttered its businesses and took to the streets for the first of many continuous, community-wide celebrations, President Lyndon Johnson signed legislation, recently passed by the U.S. Congress, declaring the tiny upstate village the “official” birthplace of Memorial Day.
    Wearing a red poppy on Memorial Day began with a World War I poem
    In the spring of 1915, bright red flowers began poking through the battle-ravaged land across northern France and Flanders (northern Belgium). Canadian Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, who served as a brigade surgeon for an Allied artillery unit, spotted a cluster of the poppies shortly after serving as a brigade surgeon during the bloody Second Battle of Ypres. The sight of the bright red flowers against the dreary backdrop of war inspired McCrae to pen the poem, “In Flanders Field,” in which he gives voice to the soldiers who had been killed in battle and lay buried beneath the poppy-covered grounds. Later that year, a Georgia teacher and volunteer war worker named Moina Michael read the poem in Ladies’ Home Journal and wrote her own poem, “We Shall Keep the Faith” to begin a campaign to make the poppy a symbol of tribute to all who died in war. The poppy remains a symbol of remembrance to this day.

  • Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of compromising India’s global standing

    Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of compromising India’s global standing

    New Delhi (TIP)- Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday, May 22, launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that he had compromised India’s honour by agreeing to pause military action against Pakistan during the recent Operation Sindoor.
    Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi questioned Modi’s decisions, writing: “Modi ji, stop giving hollow speeches. Just tell: Why did you believe Pakistan’s statement on terrorism? Why did you sacrifice India’s interests by bowing to Trump? Why does your blood boil only in front of cameras? You have compromised the prestige of India!”
    Gandhi, who now serves as Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, also shared a video clip of the prime minister stating that India had acknowledged Pakistan’s assurance of refraining from supporting terrorism or engaging in military aggression.
    The Congress party has repeatedly criticised the government for calling off Operation Sindoor, a cross-border military operation targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
    Rahul Gandhi ‘poster boy of Pakistan’: BJP
    The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again slammed Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of “giving oxygen to Pakistan”. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) cited Rahul Gandhi’s remarks to claim India was “lying” during Operation Sindoor. Sambit Patra alleged that during Operation Sindoor, Pakistani officials used statements by Indian opposition leaders to challenge India’s narrative and cast doubt on the operation’s legitimacy. He said such remarks benefit Pakistan’s propaganda.
    Patra said, “Rahul Gandhi has been asking for proof for two days. Today, the whole world and even Pakistan itself are providing evidence. We have kept digital evidence. Evidence upon evidence is being presented. The Pakistanis themselves have shown the dead bodies of their terrorists. The terrorists themselves were seen standing to bury the terrorists. Despite the fact that the whole world has seen this evidence, you are still asking for proof of the indomitable courage of the army.”

  • UAE, Japan express solidarity with India in war against terror

    UAE, Japan express solidarity with India in war against terror

    New Delhi (TIP)- The UAE and Japan on May 22 expressed solidarity with India in its war against terrorism as all-party delegations’ diplomatic outreach commenced today to sensitise global leadership about terror emanating from Pakistan. A delegation led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Eknath Shinde held talks in the UAE. It will also travel to Congo, Sierra Leone and Liberia. Another delegation, headed by Janata Dal (United) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha, is currently in Japan and is scheduled to visit South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. In Japan, the delegation met Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, who expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and extended sympathies to those injured.
    The Japanese Foreign Minister reiterated Japan’s support to India’s fight against terrorism and expressed appreciation for the restraint shown by the Indian side, a statement by the Indian Embassy in Tokyo said.
    The delegation also met former PM of Japan Yoshihide Suga, who is the Vice President of Liberal Democratic Party and chairman of Japan-India Association. Jha told the Japanese leaders, “India has zero tolerance for terrorism and that it does not differentiate between terrorists and those supporting them.”
    The delegation sought Japan’s support in the fight against terrorism and, in this context, called for giving effect to the UN Security Council Press Statement of April 25, 2025, that underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and to bring them to justice.
    Meanwhile, Shinde held talks with UAE Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Defence Committee Ali Al Nuaimi and other leaders in Abu Dhabi.
    “Terrorism is a threat not just to a single nation or region, but it is a global threat. We believe that we, as an international community, should come together, especially the Members of Parliament, to work on putting plans and strategies and engage in creating a better future for all humanity,” Al Nuaimi told mediapersons in Abu Dhabi.

  • Bangladesh cancels Rs 180-crore defense contract with India amid diplomatic strain

    Bangladesh has cancelled a big-ticket defense contract valued at Rs 180.25 crore with Kolkata-based public-sector shipbuilder amid the deterioration in relations between New Delhi and Dhaka. The Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE), operating under the Indian Ministry of Defence, officially informed the stock exchange on Wednesday, stating, “We wish to inform you that the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh has cancelled the order.”
    The contract awarded to GRSE was for the construction of an Advanced Ocean-Going Tug for Bangladesh. These specialised vessels are designed for long-distance towing and salvage operations in open waters.
    This defence cancellation comes at a time when the relationship between India and Bangladesh is under strain, especially due to the growing closeness of Bangladesh’s interim government chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus, to China and his recent controversial remarks, particularly concerning India’s northeastern states.

  • Ties built on sensitivities: India on China, Turkiye backing Pakistan

    Ties built on sensitivities: India on China, Turkiye backing Pakistan

    New Delhi (TIP)- In the first official response to China and Turkiye, both of which had backed Pakistan in the recent skirmish, India reminded the two countries that “trust” and “sensitivities” must be kept in mind for relations to function effectively. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, when asked whether India had conveyed a message to China during Operation Sindoor (May 7-10), said National Security Adviser Ajit Doval had spoken with the Chinese Foreign Minister and Special Representative on the boundary issue on May 10.
    Jaiswal said, “The NSA conveyed India’s resolute stance against cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan… The Chinese side is aware that mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual sensitivity remain the basis of India-China relations.” Though Jaiswal did not explicitly mention it, the remark appeared to allude to assessments within the strategic affairs community suggesting that Beijing had provided real-time satellite imagery to Pakistan for launching attacks on Indian assets. Besides, media reports have emerged indicating that China, following Operation Sindoor, offered Pakistan its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the J-20. On Turkiye-Pakistan relations, Jaiswal said India expected Turkiye to strongly urge Pakistan to end its support for cross-border terrorism and take credible, verifiable action against the terror ecosystem it had harboured for decades. He delivered a clear message to Turkiye, saying “relations are built on the basis of sensitivities to each other’s concerns.”
    Turkiye had backed Pakistan with logistical support. Indian security agencies estimated that over 350 drones and Turkish military operatives assisted Pakistan during its four-day hostilities with India. This assistance included operational coordination and drone warfare tactics, marking a direct military role by Turkiye in the clashes.
    Pakistan launched drone attacks following India’s May 7 strikes, which targeted terror camps deep inside Pakistani territory in response to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre. Islamabad deployed Bayraktar TB2 and YIHA drones in its retaliatory strikes, using them for surveillance, target marking, and, in some cases, kamikaze-style attacks against Indian forward positions and military convoys.
    Turkiye’s defence cooperation with Pakistan has intensified in recent years. According to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) titled “Trends in International Arms Transfers-2024”, 10 per cent of all Turkish arms exports between 2020 and 2024 were sent to Pakistan. During the same period, 63 per cent of all Chinese arms exports went to Pakistan. The report noted that Beijing is the fourth-largest arms exporter globally after the US, France and Russia. Source: TNS

  • Gandhis beneficiaries of Rs 142 crore in National Herald case: Probe agency

    Gandhis beneficiaries of Rs 142 crore in National Herald case: Probe agency

    New Delhi (TIP)- The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 21 told a Delhi court that Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were beneficiaries of Rs 142 crore in proceeds of crime in connection with the ongoing National Herald money laundering case. The central agency argued that a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) had been established.
    The submissions were made before Special Judge Vishal Gogne at the Rouse Avenue Court during initial arguments on whether the court should take note of the ED’s prosecution complaint filed against the two senior Congress leaders and other accused.
    The complaint stems from a 2014 private criminal complaint filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy, which the magistrate court took note of in June 2014. The ED formally began its investigation in 2021.
    The defence, represented by senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, requested time to respond, citing the nature of the case documents, which span approximately 5,000 pages.
    What is the National Herald money laundering case?
    Both Sonia and Rahul have been questioned as part of the probe before
    Rahul Gandhi, was last questioned by ED in the case in June 2022. His mother Sonia Gandhi was also questioned about her role in the day-to-day functioning of Young Indian Private Limited (YIL). The mother-son duo were questioned about the ownership of YIL by the Gandhi family and its shareholding pattern in Associated Journals Limited (AJL), the company that runs the National Herald newspaper.
    ED began its probe in the National Herald case after Swamy filed a complaint in 2014, accusing Sonia, Rahul and other senior Congress leaders of taking over AJL properties for a mere sum of Rs 50 lakh. The properties are worth over Rs 2,000 crore.
    The National Herald is published by AJL, which is owned by YIL . Sonia and Rahul Gandhi each hold a 38 per cent stake in Young Indian, making them its majority shareholders.
    On April 12, ED served notices to take possession of immovable assets worth Rs 661 crore – in Delhi, Mumbai and Lucknow – that it had attached as part of a money laundering probe linked to National Herald newspaper and Associated Journals Limited (AJL).
    The ED had attached these properties earlier by issuing a provisional attachment order in a PMLA case against AJL.
    What happens if the charges are proven?
    If convicted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the accused could face imprisonment of up to seven years.
    Are the Gandhis in trouble?
    The acquisition of AJL’s shares by YIL for Rs 50 lakh raises questions about the transaction’s propriety, including the lack of regulatory oversight.
    The Congress has to explain why the ownership of AJL was given to a company in which the Gandhis have a 76 per cent stake.

  • We avenged Pahalgam attack in 22 mins: PM

    We avenged Pahalgam attack in 22 mins: PM

    Bikaner (TIP)- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that the country’s enemies have learnt what happens when ‘sindoor’ becomes gunpowder, and lauded India’s armed forces for creating such a trap that Pakistan was forced to go down on its knees.In his first public address in Rajasthan after Operation Sindoor that was launched in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the prime minister slammed Pakistan, and said in response to the attack on April 22, “we destroyed nine biggest terror hideouts in 22 minutes”.
    “The world and the enemies of the country have seen what happens when ‘sindoor’ turns into ‘barood’ (gunpowder),” he said at the public meeting in Palana in Bikaner, which shares border with Pakistan.
    “Ab toh Modi ki naso mein lahu nahi garam sindoor beh raha hai (Not blood but sindoor runs in Modi’s veins),” he said, adding, Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price for every terrorist attack.
    He said India’s response to the terror attack was not a game of vengeance but a “new form of justice” and there will be no trade or talk with Pakistan, there will be talk only about Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
    In a stern message to Pakistan, he said India is not going to be scared by nuclear threats and if there is a terrorist attack on the country then it will give a befitting reply.
    “If there is a terrorist attack on India, it will get a befitting reply. The time and methods will also be decided by our army and the conditions will also be ours. India is not going to be scared by the threat of atom bomb. Thirdly, we will not see the perpetrators of terror and the government patronising the terrorists separately. We will consider them as one,” he said, adding these are three “sutras” from Operation Sindoor.
    He said the game of Pakistan of state and non-state actors will not work anymore. Lauding the armed forces for carrying out Operation Sindoor, he said “Our government gave free hand to all three armed forces. Together they created such a trap that Pakistan was forced to go down on its knees”.Noting that Pakistan had tried to target the Nal air base in Bikaner but could not cause any damage to it, he said in contrast “No one knows when Pakistan’s Rahimyar Khan air base will open again. It is in ICU. The attack has destroyed it”.
    “Pakistan can never win a direct fight against India. Whenever there is a direct fight, Pakistan has to face defeat again and again. That is why Pakistan has made terrorism a weapon to fight against India,” he said.
    Modi recalled his public rally in Rajasthan’s Churu after the 2019 Balakot airstrike, and said he had then stated that, “Saugandh mujhe is mitti ki, mein desh nahi jhukne dunga, mein desh nahi mitne dunga (he had taken a vow that he would not let the country down)”.
    “Today, from the land of Rajasthan, I want to say to the countrymen that those who had set out to erase sindoor have been wiped out. Those who shed the blood of Hindustan have paid for every drop of it. Those who were proud of their weapons are now buried under a pile of rubble,” he said.
    “This is not a game of vengeance, but this is a new form of justice, this is Operation Sindoor. This is not just anger, this is the fierce form of a capable India. This is the new form of India,” he said.
    Referring to the 2016 surgical strikes and the Balakote air strike, Modi said earlier India carried out attacks by entering into their houses but now the attack was directly on their chest. He said Pakistan used to spread terror, kill innocent people and create an atmosphere of fear in India.
    “Now, Modi, the servant of ‘Maa Bharti’, is standing here with his head held high. Modi’s mind remains cool but his blood is hot,” he said.
    He said there will be no trade or talk with Pakistan, there will be talk only about Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. “And if Pakistan continues to export terrorists, it will have to beg for every penny. Pakistan will not get India’s rightful share of water. Playing with the blood of Indians will cost Pakistan dearly. This is India’s resolve and no power in the world can shake us from this resolve,” he said.
    The prime minister observed that security and prosperity both are necessary for the creation of a developed India.
    “This is possible only when every corner of India becomes strong,” he added.
    Modi also spoke about the multi-party delegations being sent abroad to to highlight India’s resolve to confront state-sponsored terrorism emanating from Pakistan and assert its right to self-defence following Operation Sindoor.
    “To expose the truth, our all party delegations are reaching all over the world. The real face of Pakistan will be shown to the whole world,” he said.
    India carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor on terror infrastructure early on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
    Following the Indian action, Pakistan attempted to attack Indian military bases on May 8, 9 and 10. The Indian forces launched a fierce counter-attack on several Pakistani military installations.
    India and Pakistan reached an understanding on May 10 to end the military confrontation after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes. Source: PTI

  • Use international law to take on Pakistan-backed terror

    Use international law to take on Pakistan-backed terror

     A clear and compelling narrative that uses international law and indisputable facts will help India in its fight against cross-border terrorism

    Given that Pakistan has been sponsoring and abetting terrorism against India and has not taken any action against terror groups operating from its territory, New Delhi has a compelling case against Islamabad under these terrorism conventions, which it can present to the ICJ — just as it did in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. 

     “A key element of a lawfare strategy against Pakistan should be to deploy international law to highlight Pakistan’s sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. This is especially important as India has led the process of adopting a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the global level. India and Pakistan are parties to numerous terrorism conventions at the regional and international levels. The primary regional treaty is the SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism, while key international treaties include the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism (ICSFT) and the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings (Terrorist Bombing Convention).”

    By Prabhash Ranjan

    Operation Sindoor has powerfully demonstrated India’s intent to use kinetic measures to tackle terrorism emanating from Pakistan. In addition to executing “hot pursuits”, India possesses other potent non-kinetic strategies, going beyond regular diplomacy, to ensure that Pakistan is held accountable for its continued support of terrorism directed against India. An impactful approach that India has not effectively employed so far is the strategy of “lawfare”, or leveraging international law to confront adversaries to accomplish strategic and diplomatic objectives.

    Leverage terrorism conventions

    A key element of a lawfare strategy against Pakistan should be to deploy international law to highlight Pakistan’s sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. This is especially important as India has led the process of adopting a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the global level. India and Pakistan are parties to numerous terrorism conventions at the regional and international levels. The primary regional treaty is the SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism, while key international treaties include the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism (ICSFT) and the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings (Terrorist Bombing Convention).

    These conventions obligate that states not only criminalize acts of terrorism under their domestic laws and prosecute the perpetrators but also refrain from financing such activities. For instance, Article 2(1) of the ICSFT explicitly classifies terror financing as a crime. Similarly, Article 6 of the Additional Protocol to the SAARC terrorism convention requires states to take measures to prevent, suppress, and eradicate the financing of terrorism.

    Pakistan has a long history of sponsoring, abetting, and funding terrorism against India. Following the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008, India meticulously gathered evidence to demonstrate Pakistan’s active involvement in those attacks, which Islamabad later acknowledged, albeit reluctantly. India needs to consistently publicize proof of Pakistan’s role, which includes the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

    Further, India should utilize all international forums to build a solid legal case against Pakistan for its violations of international law regarding terrorism suppression. India’s move to have all-party parliamentary delegations travelling abroad to present India’s case on Operation Sindoor is an ideal opportunity to do this. India should identify specific provisions in terrorism conventions, along with various United Nations Security Council Resolutions that sanction terrorism, and customary international law that Pakistan is violating, and highlight these publicly.

    Rather than mere diplomatic hyperbole, a clear and compelling narrative entrenched in international law, grounded in indisputable facts and supported by irrefutable evidence will significantly benefit New Delhi’s fight against cross-border terrorism.

    Use the ICJ

    A critical aspect of many terrorism conventions is that they grant jurisdiction to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to enforce the treaties. For example, Articles 20(1) and 24(1) of the Terrorist Bombing Convention and the ICSFT, respectively, empower a country to refer disputes to the ICJ. These provisions, known as compromisory clauses, help circumvent jurisdictional obstacles in international law, which is based on consent. Thus, countries that are signatories to these treaties are bound by ICJ jurisdiction unless they make specific reservations. Ukraine, for instance, invoked such a clause when it sued Russia before the ICJ for violating the ICSFT.

    Given that Pakistan has been sponsoring and abetting terrorism against India and has not taken any action against terror groups operating from its territory, New Delhi has a compelling case against Islamabad under these terrorism conventions, which it can present to the ICJ — just as it did in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case.

    Hurdles to overcome

    However, there are two significant hurdles. First, Pakistan has not accepted the ICJ’s jurisdiction under the ICSFT due to a reservation, which could hinder efforts to hold Pakistan accountable. Nevertheless, India can still file a case with the ICJ to draw global attention to the issue. India should put the ball in the ICJ’s court to address Pakistan’s jurisdictional argument.

    Second, and perplexingly, India has adopted a reservation about the ICJ’s jurisdiction under the Terrorist Bombing Convention, while Pakistan has accepted the ICJ’s jurisdiction for this convention. This obstacle can be overcome if India withdraws its reservation, allowing it to initiate proceedings against Pakistan at the ICJ for terrorism. The ICJ may likely interpret the provisions of the ICSFT and the Terrorist Bombing Convention narrowly, similar to its approach in the Ukraine vs Russia case decided last year. Therefore, India should have fool-proof evidence and devise its legal strategy accordingly. The dissenting opinion of judges such as Hilary Charlesworth in Ukraine vs Russia can come in handy for India. In any case, India should not be overly concerned about the outcome of the legal dispute. Instead, it should utilize the legal proceedings to assiduously promote a global narrative against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, aligning it with its national objectives.

    In sum, international law and courtrooms can also be used to combat terrorism. To accomplish this, India must build state capacity and mainstream international law in statecraft.

    (Prabhash Ranjan is Professor and Vice Dean (Research), Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University.)

  • India must cash in on its economic edge

    India must cash in on its economic edge

    The US is facing a slowdown owing to the fallout of Trump’s tariff policies, compounded by Moody’s unprecedented decision to downgrade its credit rating.

    The big worry is the prospect of a prolonged conflict. Given the fact that Operation Sindoor has only been paused, tensions with Pakistan might flare up again. This raises the grim possibility of disruption to normal economic activity. A revival of hostilities could bring industrial and trade activities to a halt, especially in the northern and western regions.

    By Sushma Ramachandran

    Cross-border tensions, geopolitical headwinds and US President Donald Trump’s fast-changing tariff policies — the Indian economy is facing a slew of challenges. Yet, India continues to be viewed as an outlier in the global arena, performing better on the economic front than many other countries.

    The United Nations has confirmed the perception in its latest report on the global economy. While downgrading India’s growth prospects from 6.6 per cent to 6.3 per cent for 2025, the UN still sees it as the fastest-growing major economy. In contrast, China is expected to grow by 4.6 per cent (from 5 per cent earlier), while the US is set to decelerate from 2.8 to 1.6 per cent this year. Emerging economies such as Brazil, Mexico and South Africa are also facing growth downgrades owing to factors like depressed trade and investments.

    In this backdrop of a slowing world economy, India stands out. The Reserve Bank of India sounds similarly upbeat in its latest report, noting that the country is poised to surpass Japan this year to become the world’s fourth largest economy. Though it describes the outlook as one of cautious optimism, it points to easing of inflation pressures, while a normal monsoon forecast is expected to spur rural consumption.

    The central bank has already downgraded its projection for the ongoing financial year to 6.5 per cent from 6.7 per cent, but it has pointed to the multiple strengths of the Indian economy. These include the fact that it is ringfenced by monetary, financial and political stability along with a congenial business environment and strong macroeconomic fundamentals.

    This positive affirmation comes in the midst of global uncertainty, with the UN expecting global growth to touch only 2.4 per cent from the earlier forecast of 2.8 per cent. It attributes a dip in investments to uncertainty over trade and economic policies linked to the volatile geopolitical landscape. What is more worrying is that this is a broad-based scenario affecting both developed and developing economies. Even the US is facing a slowdown owing to the fallout of Trump’s tariff policies, compounded by Moody’s unprecedented decision to downgrade its credit rating.

    As far as India is concerned, the big worry is the prospect of a prolonged conflict. Given the fact that Operation Sindoor has only been paused, tensions with Pakistan might flare up again. This raises the grim possibility of disruption to normal economic activity. A revival of hostilities could bring industrial and trade activities to a halt, especially in the northern and western regions.

    Maharashtra and Gujarat, for instance, are among the most industrialized states in the country and any war-like situation could have a serious impact. Key energy installations are also located in both onland and offshore areas of these states as well as in Rajasthan. Any curbs on operations could affect energy security and thereby overall economic development. In the long run, the country is likely to rebound from any crisis as the economy’s resilience has been demonstrated in the post-Covid era as well as after facing external headwinds that have plagued most other economies. But there is bound to be a short or medium-term setback to the pace of growth. As it is, growth is set to fall from 7.1 per cent last year to 6.5 per cent in 2025-26.

    Another element that could upset the applecart is the worsening of geopolitical fissures. Both the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Gaza conflict continue despite peace efforts. Global supply chains may no longer be fractured as at the outset of the Russia-Ukraine war, but energy-related issues remain mired in uncertainty owing to Western sanctions. Oil prices have fallen but Western curbs on Russian energy have created logistical issues.

    In West Asia, too, the problem is of logistics as trade flows through the Suez Canal have been hampered by Houthi attacks on merchant shipping. India has also had to face the brunt of higher trade costs as a result of ships opting for the longer route via the Cape of Good Hope.

    Despite these headwinds, the UN report argues that resilient private consumption and strong public investment along with robust services exports will support economic growth in India. Its views have been buttressed, interestingly enough, by Moody’s, which says India is better placed to face the vagaries of trade disruptions owing to its large domestic economy and low dependence on exports. The ratings agency may have cut its growth forecast to 6.3 from 6.7 per cent, but it feels that India could benefit from higher US demand after the conclusion of the bilateral trade pact.

    Neither of these institutions, however, have taken into account the full effect of Trump’s fast-changing tariff policies on the Indian economy. Much will depend on the outcome of ongoing negotiations. Their criticality cannot be downplayed as the US is India’s biggest market, accounting for 17 per cent of the total merchandise exports. The principle of reciprocity may mean that India will have to provide greater market access in areas earlier considered sacrosanct, such as agriculture and the dairy sector. It would be worthwhile to open up some selected segments where farmers’ livelihoods are not under threat. Similarly, tariffs raised in recent years can be reduced without an adverse impact as the domestic industry is strong enough in most areas to meet global competition.

    The evolution of the final agreement will take some time, even as exporters continue to face an uphill task owing to recessionary conditions in world markets. The latest data shows a 9 per cent rise in exports in April, but this could be due to frontloading of shipments to avoid impending US tariff hikes.

    The economy thus has to navigate multiple challenges at a time when growth needs to be brought to higher levels. If India is to avoid the middle-income trap that has constrained many developing economies, it has to move towards 8-9 per cent growth annually. It is only at this pace that the country can achieve the goal of becoming a developed economy over the next two decades. It may be a bright spot in the world right now, but the ambitions need to be even bigger.

    (Sushma Ramachandran is a senior financial journalist)

     

  • Narrating the Nation Abroad

    Narrating the Nation Abroad

    The fact that India must engage in diplomatic clarification suggests a concern that its actions might be misread, misframed, or lost in the noise of global crises

    The deeper question is not whether India can explain itself to the world, but whether the world still retains a framework within which such explanations are heard as truth and not dismissed as just another version of the story. 

    By T.T. Sreekumar

    India’s decision to send diplomatic envoys and delegates to various countries to explain its position on the recent combats with Pakistan and the terrorist attack that triggered them raises an important question: is this display of proactive diplomacy a mark of strength or a gesture of reassurance?

    On the surface, the move can be seen as a strategic effort to manage international perception, pre-empt misrepresentation, and reinforce India’s standing as a responsible global actor. Yet beneath that lies the more complicated reality of narrative legitimacy in a world where perception often outweighs fact, and international sympathy cannot be taken for granted. While much of the debate centers on the government’s domestic strategy in selecting members of the delegation and the political calculations behind it, the more important questions ought to concern the necessity, effectiveness, and anticipated outcomes of such a move.

    In the contemporary global order, it is no longer sufficient to act with self-justified conviction; states must constantly perform their legitimacy before an audience of allies, media, and institutions. India’s outreach can certainly be viewed as part of this performance. It aims to convince the international community that its military response is calibrated, directed at non-state actors, and rooted in the imperative to defend its sovereignty against terrorism — not as a pretext for escalating an old and unresolved national rivalry. From this angle, the move reflects a calculated strength: a confidence that India’s case, if communicated properly, can take the moral high ground and secure international solidarity.

    But at the same time, the very need for such an extensive exercise points to an underlying legitimacy deficit. If India’s position were entirely beyond reproach or universally acknowledged, would such explanation tours be necessary? The fact that India must engage in diplomatic clarification suggests a concern that its actions might be misread, misframed, or lost in the noise of global crises. In that sense, the effort reflects not just a desire to assert control over the narrative but also a tacit recognition of the fragility of international opinion.

    Crisis of credibility

    This vulnerability is amplified in an era when misinformation travels faster than official briefings. Recent examples during the India-Pakistan conflict show how easily falsehoods become facts in the public imagination. Old video footage, unrelated disaster clips, and even scenes from digital war games have been circulated online and passed off as real-time evidence of military operations or civilian suffering. These are not state-sponsored manipulations alone; they are generated and shared by ordinary users. caught in a whirlwind of nationalist fervor, emotional reaction, or digital mischief. Both Indian and Pakistani social media users have shared sensational content that turns out to be fabricated. AI-generated images and deepfakes complicate the picture, as they become harder to detect.

    In such a climate, India’s attempt to set the record straight may seem like swimming upstream, particularly when the people on both sides have already made up their minds based on viral clips and emotionally charged narratives.

    What, then, is the implication of this collapse of credibility in the news? Does anyone care anymore about verifiable information as a public good? Or has the idea of news itself been absorbed into a larger game of affect and performance, where truth matters only insofar as it confirms one’s pre-existing bias? This erosion of trust poses a deep philosophical crisis. The old saying that “truth is the first casualty of war” was once confined to the logic of state secrecy — governments hiding facts from their citizens in the name of national interest. The Japanese emperor’s radio address at the end of World War II never mentioned the word “surrender” but instead said the war had “developed not necessarily to Japan’s advantage.” This was state-sanctioned euphemism, an elite strategy of softening reality.

    Today, however, the distortion of truth is no longer top-down alone — it is bottom-up, lateral, and participatory. Citizens actively produce the falsehoods they wish to believe, and in doing so, dissolve the very distinction between truth and illusion.

    This situation resonates powerfully with Jean Baudrillard’s provocative claim that “The Gulf War did not take place.” He did not mean that bombs were not dropped or that people did not die. Rather, he argued that the war was consumed entirely as spectacle — televised, mediated, edited — such that the reality of war was displaced by its simulation. In our time, that idea has become almost literal: the simulated now overrides the real in public perception.

    In the realm of the humanities, where the pursuit of meaning, narrative, and ethical clarity is central, the end of credible news represents a profound loss. Without the possibility of shared facts, even argument becomes impossible. Disagreement presupposes agreement on the basic ground of what is happening. When that ground collapses, what remains is not debate but disorientation.

    In this sense, India’s diplomatic campaign is not just a strategic act of persuasion — it also represents a battle to restore the very conditions under which persuasion is meaningful. It remains unclear whether this effort signals an admission of vulnerability or a reassertion of strength — an attempt to reaffirm the nation’s authenticity, rooted in the accumulated legacy of the Non-Aligned Movement years.

    However, if this effort fails, then no amount of military precision or moral clarity will matter, because the audience will no longer be capable of distinguishing a justified action from a manufactured illusion.

    Hence, the deeper question is not whether India can explain itself to the world, but whether the world still retains a framework within which such explanations are heard as truth and not dismissed as just another version of the story.

    To lose that is to lose more than credibility — it is to lose our last bid for a politics of authenticity.

    (T.T. Sreekumar is Professor, The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad)

  • Israel’s isolation: On the Western world and Gaza

    Netanyahu must not be allowed to get away with mass murder

    The joint statement by the leaders of Canada, France and the United Kingdom, and announcements by the U.K. and the EU to pause trade talks with Israel are proof that the Netanyahu government is growing more isolated over its brutal campaign on Gaza. Since the ceasefire ended on March 18, over 3,000 residents have been killed in the enclave, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Israel’s chokehold on aid and humanitarian supplies has pushed thousands to the brink of starvation, a fact that even Donald Trump, President of Israel’s all-time ally, the U.S., referred to during a trip to West Asia last week. Mr. Trump’s decision to skip Israel was seen as a mark of his displeasure with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policy on the issue. Despite the rebukes, Mr. Netanyahu has said Israeli Defence Forces needed to continue to target Hamas operatives in the area, and added that Israel would now re-take full “military control” of the Gaza strip, which the IDF had vacated in 2005. The comments provoked an angry response from the leaders of Canada (Mark Carney), France (Emmanuel Macron), and the U.K. (Keir Starmer), all of whom had pledged their support to Israeli actions in response to the October 7, 2023 terror attacks. They called the level of human suffering in Gaza “intolerable” and Israel’s escalation of bombardment a “disproportionate” response, condemned the Israeli leadership for threatening to evict all Palestinians forcibly from the strip, and recommitted to a “two-state solution” for Israel and Palestine, to be discussed at a United Nations conference in June. Significantly, the three countries even threatened sanctions against Israel. Mr. Netanyahu’s response, to accuse the three leaders of handing Hamas a “huge prize”, and vowing not to stop “until total victory is achieved”, indicates that he still believes that he can continue without being checked.

    It is time for the international community to speak up so that Mr. Netanyahu does not think he can get away with what international agencies are calling genocide. New Delhi has notably thus far not issued any statement. This silence may be because of its own preoccupation with Pakistan and due to Israel’s unequivocal support over Operation Sindoor. There is no link or equivalence between the two situations, however. Too many lives have been lost in the incessant bombardment by Israel of an area of two million people. Despite the depredations, Israel has not, with any clarity, met its objectives of bringing back the hostages or of wiping out Hamas’s presence there yet. Mr. Netanyahu has tried to frame his government’s actions as a “war of civilisation over barbarism”, but it is he who must consider how much this direction-less war that appears to punish the weakest and most defenceless the most resembles the latter more than the former, as the numbers of supporters for this war diminish worldwide.
    (The Hindu)

  • Thought police: on a professor’s arrest

    Thought police: on a professor’s arrest

    A professor’s arrest for posts points to misuse of law against dissent

    In an unconscionable act, a professor of political science at Ashoka University, Ali Khan Mahmudabad, was arrested on Sunday by the Haryana Police after two separate first information reports (FIR) were registered against him in Sonipat. These FIRs were over his social media posts in connection with Operation Sindoor. The first message analyzed the strategic reasons for India’s Operation Sindoor as it had to tackle a Pakistan regime — led by the military — that has sought to hide behind non-state actors while promoting terror in India. It also noted how the empanelment of Muslim military officers in India’s press briefings showcased the pluralist vision of the country, even though this was in contrast with the communal reality that Muslims face in many parts of India in recent years. The second post condemned the “blind bloodlust for war” by some netizens following the ceasefire, while arguing that only the world’s military-industrial complex benefited from war and that both Hindu and Islamic scriptures emphasized that patience and restraint are virtues in conflict. There is nothing objectionable in his posts that were lucid and patriotic calls for an inclusive India and evinced an understanding that India has been forced to target terror-hubs in Pakistan by removing the distinction between terrorists and the larger terrorist infrastructure backed by Pakistan’s military regime. The Haryana Police’s move was based on complaints by office-bearers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Yuva Morcha and the Haryana State Women Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia, which said that the posts were disparaging to women in uniform and attributed malicious intent to the Indian government. This is plainly false, and there should have been little basis for the Haryana Police to have acted on these complaints, if they had cared to read and understand the clear messages in the posts.

    It is also alarming that the arrests have been made on charges that are related to endangering the country’s sovereignty and integrity, and promoting enmity between different groups — akin to the charges of sedition levelled against dissidents in the recent past. Too often, and very wrongly, the charge of sedition has been used by law enforcement agencies across India to quell dissent and the professor’s travails are symptomatic of a pernicious trend in recent years, especially in States ruled by the BJP. His arrest is also a reflection of the worsening state of academic freedoms, where critical understanding and reflections in institutes of higher education on the policies and the actions of the state and governments have been frowned upon and even criminalized in some cases. On Monday, the Supreme Court of India agreed to urgently hear the professor’s case against his arrest. The Court must reiterate the importance of the freedom of expression and come down heavily on law enforcement agencies that misuse powers to slap serious charges related to sedition, on frivolous grounds.
    (The Hindu)

  • Donald Trump will visit Canada for the G7, the White House confirms

    Donald Trump will visit Canada for the G7, the White House confirms

    Trump will be in Canada from June 15 to 17

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): U.S. President Donald Trump will attend the G7 leaders’ summit in Canada next month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed in a briefing.

    Trump will be in Canada from June 15 to 17. More details of his visit will be announced shortly, Leavitt said.

    On May 6, during Mark Carney’s meeting with Trump at the White House, the prime minister noted that the two leaders “look forward to meeting next month at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis.” The 51st G7 summit will be held from June 15 to 17 in Kananaskis, Alta., attended by the core members of the group. Also in attendance will be Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    G7 shows unity at financial summit
    This week, finance ministers from the G7 countries, as well as heads of the World Bank Group (WBG), International Monetary Fund (IMF), Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and Financial Stability Board (FSB), participated in a three-day summit in Banff, Alta.

    They discussed global trade, artificial intelligence and the war in Ukraine.

    “After 50 years of working together, transcending national differences and promoting global prosperity, the value of the G7 is clear,” the communique reads. “We held a productive and frank exchange of views on the current global economic and financial situation, the risks and opportunities common to our countries, and ways to address them.”

    U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, along with chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve Jerome Powell, represented the American delegation for this portion of the summit.

    Canada’s Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne concluded the three-day meeting saying there was a sense of unity among the G7 members. “The best proof of unity is that we have a joint communique,” Champagne said.

    The communique does not mention Trump’s tariffs, but addresses the multiple, complex global challenges,” and “are committed to pursuing our shared policy objectives.”

  • UAE, Japan express solidarity with India in war against terror

    UAE, Japan express solidarity with India in war against terror

    ABU DHABI / NEW DELHI (TIP): The UAE and Japan today expressed solidarity with India in its war against terrorism as all-party delegations’ diplomatic outreach commenced today to sensitize global leadership about terror emanating from Pakistan.

    A delegation led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Eknath Shinde held talks in the UAE. It will also travel to Congo, Sierra Leone and Liberia. Another delegation, headed by Janata Dal (United) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha, is currently in Japan and is scheduled to visit South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. In Japan, the delegation met Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, who expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and extended sympathies to those injured.
    The delegation also met former PM of Japan Yoshihide Suga, who is the Vice President of Liberal Democratic Party and chairman of Japan-India Association. Jha told the Japanese leaders, “India has zero tolerance for terrorism and that it does not differentiate between terrorists and those supporting them.”

    The delegation sought Japan’s support in the fight against terrorism and, in this context, called for giving effect to the UN Security Council Press Statement of April 25, 2025, that underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and to bring them to justice.

    Meanwhile, Shinde held talks with UAE Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Defense Committee Ali Al Nuaimi and other leaders in Abu Dhabi.

    “Terrorism is a threat not just to a single nation or region, but it is a global threat. We believe that we, as an international community, should come together, especially the Members of Parliament, to work on putting plans and strategies and engage in creating a better future for all humanity,” Al Nuaimi told mediapersons in Abu Dhabi.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Trump administration ends Harvard’s ability to enroll international students

    Trump administration ends Harvard’s ability to enroll international students

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Trump administration has moved to end Harvard’s ability to enroll international students, escalating a standoff with America’s oldest university.

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem wrote on X that the administration had revoked Harvard’s “Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification as a result of their failure to adhere to the law.”

    “Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country,” she posted on Thursday.

    Harvard called the move “unlawful” in a statement. “We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard’s ability to host our international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the University – and this nation – immeasurably,” the university responded. “We are working quickly to provide guidance and support to members of our community. This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”

    The Trump administration’s decisions could affect thousands of international students who study at the university. Over 6,700 international students were enrolled at the institution last academic year, university data shows, making up 27% of its student body.

    News quickly spread through the international community on campus Thursday, sparking fear and frustration among the thousands of students whose futures were suddenly in limbo. “We’re seeing a lot of confusion on this,” Sarah Davis, an Australian student receiving a graduate degree, told BBC Newshour.

    “The news has come only five days before a lot of us are due to graduate the university, and this obviously is going to have a lot of very uncertain implications for whether we’re able to stay on in the United States afterwards and keep working here,” said Ms Davis, who is president of the Australia and New Zealand Caucus at the Harvard Kennedy School. “We’re all just sitting back and waiting to see whether or not we get communications about what the next steps are from the university.”

    Leo Gerdén, a 32-year-old undergraduate from Sweden, remembers the day he received his admission letter to Harvard as the best day of his life. With less than a week until graduation, he didn’t imagine his time at the prestigious campus ending like this.

    “International students are being used as poker chips in a battle between the White House and Harvard,” Mr Gerdén told the BBC. “It’s incredibly dehumanizing.”

    The administration has launched investigations into dozens of universities across the countries and wrung concessions from other major US institutions like Columbia University in New York.

    But in April, Harvard University became the most prominent institution to push back, announcing it would sue the Trump administration after it sent the school a list of lengthy demands. The White House later said the list was sent by mistake.

    It has demanded Harvard change its hiring, admissions and teaching practices to help fight antisemitism on campus. It has threatened to revoke the university’s tax-exempt status and freeze billions of dollars in government grants.

    Harvard earlier this year said it had taken many steps to address antisemitism, and that the government’s demands were an effort to regulate the university’s “intellectual conditions”. The standoff has continued to escalate.

    In April, Noem threatened to revoke the university’s access to student visa programs if it did not comply with a sweeping records request from the administration, pertaining to international students.

    In Thursday’s letter, Noem said Harvard must comply with a list of demands to have an “opportunity” to regain its ability to enroll international students.

    That included providing the government with all disciplinary records for non-immigrant students enrolled at Harvard over the past five years. Noem also demanded Harvard turn over electronic records, videos, or audio of “illegal” and “dangerous or violent” activity by non-immigrant students on campus.

    The notice gave Harvard 72 hours to comply. In her post on X, Noem warned that the move should “serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country.”

    The Trump administration has attempted to curtail individual visas for international students, causing confusion on university campuses across the US and leading to a wave of lawsuits. In some cases, those revocations appeared to affect foreign students who participated in political protests or have had previous criminal charges, such as driving infractions. In a separate court case on Thursday, a federal judge in California blocked the Trump administration from cancelling the legal status of international students across the US while challenges to the policy play out in court. “We came here because if what America stands for: freedom of speech, academic freedom, a vibrant intellectual community,” Mr Gerdén said of his international classmates. “And now Trump is threatening all those values.”

    “Without the international students, Harvard is simply not Harvard anymore,” he said.
    (Source: BBC)

  • Hand over wanted terrorists, EAM tells Pak

    Hand over wanted terrorists, EAM tells Pak

    NEW DELHI (TIP): India on Thursday called on Pakistan to hand over terrorists named in the list previously shared with Islamabad even as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his Europe tour, accused the Pakistani government and its army of actively supporting terrorism. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal rejected Opposition’s charge that the External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar had informed Pakistan at the start of Operation Sindoor. “We told them that we had exercised our right to respond after the retaliatory strikes were carried out,” he said.

    In an interview with Dutch publication “De Volkskrant”, Jaishankar reiterated India’s demand for a permanent end to terrorism, warning that while the ceasefire has halted military action for now, there would be consequences if terror attacks from Pakistan continued.

    The minister said it was erroneous to go along with the narrative that Pakistan “doesn’t know what is going on”. “The most notorious terrorists on the UN sanctions list are all in Pakistan. Let’s not pretend Pakistan is not involved. The state is involved. The army is up to its neck in it.” His remarks came ahead of an all-party Indian delegation’s visit to Europe from May 25. The delegation will travel to France, Italy, Denmark, the UK, Belgium and Germany where the leaders will reinforce India’s stance that all terror links, direct and indirect, trace back to Pakistan.

    The minister rejected any justification for terrorism, calling it an “unacceptable international crime”. On Kashmir, he reiterated India’s position that Pakistan must vacate illegally occupied territories and said, “Our position is clear. The illegal occupiers (Pakistan) must return what belongs to India. No third-party intervention is acceptable. This is a bilateral issue.”

    In New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal echoed Jaishankar’s message. “Talks and terror cannot go together. We remain open to discussing the extradition of wanted terrorists whose list was provided to Pakistan some years ago,” he said. Regarding any future dialogue on J&K, Jaiswal said, “Discussions will only proceed if Pakistan vacates illegally occupied Indian territory.”

    On the Indus Waters Treaty, Jaiswal said it would remain suspended until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably” ended cross-border terrorism. He quoted PM Narendra Modi’s warning that “water and blood cannot flow together”.

    On Opposition’s allegations that Jaishankar admitted that India informed Pakistan about the retaliatory strikes “at the start”, Jaiswal said, “We informed Pakistan after the May 7 action.”
    (Source: TNS)

  • CBI chargesheets J&K ex-Gov Malik, 7 others for irregularities in hydel project contracts

    CBI chargesheets J&K ex-Gov Malik, 7 others for irregularities in hydel project contracts

    NEW DELHI (TIP): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and seven others in connection with alleged irregularities in the award of civil works contracts worth over Rs 2,200 crore for the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project in Kishtwar.

    The case, which dates back to Malik’s tenure as Governor between August 2018 and October 2019, centers on the suspected manipulation of the tendering process by top officials and private entities involved in the project.

    The CBI had registered an FIR and launched an investigation in April 2022 following public statements made by Malik claiming that he was offered Rs 300 crore in bribe to clear two controversial files — one of which was linked to the project.

    In February 2024, the CBI had carried out raids on more than 30 locations, including Malik’s residences in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir as well as the premises of his close aides and officials associated with the project.

    In the FIR, the CBI had claimed that the protocol of opting for transparent re-tendering through e-procurement and reverse auction was not followed despite a resolution at the 47th board meeting of Chenab Valley Power Projects Pvt Ltd. (CVPPPL) — the agency overseeing the project. Instead, the contract was directly awarded to Patel Engineering Ltd, raising serious questions about procedural violations and favoritism.

    During investigation, several individuals, including former CVPPPL chairman Navin Kumar Chaudhary and former officials MS Babu, MK Mittal and Arun Kumar Mishra, came under scrutiny.

    After three years of probe, the central agency submitted its findings in the chargesheet before a special court in Jammu. Patel Engineering Ltd, the company that ultimately secured the lucrative contract, has also been named in it.

    Meanwhile, Malik in a message on X said he was admitted to the hospital and not in a condition to talk to anyone. The former governor said he was getting calls from many well-wishers which he was unable to take.
    (Source: TNS)

  • FESTIVAL SEFARAD DEBUTS IN NYC

    • By Mabel Pais

    FESTIVAL SEFARAD (festivalsefarad.com) debuts in New York City. It will be a citywide, month-long celebration of the Greater Sefarad world in the month of June 2025.

    New York City is home to one of the most diverse and dynamic Jewish communities in the world. After the atrocities of October 7, the need for creating communal, intellectual, and cultural connections that bring all Jews together has never been greater. In response to this need, the American Sephardi Federation (americansephardi.org) is proudly debuting Festival Sefarad NYC — a citywide, month-long celebration of the Greater Sephardi world. Featuring a variety of events with something for everyone — from musical performances and book talks, to exhibitions, tours, and Shabbat dinners — Festival Sefarad NYC will be the first festival of its kind in the U.S.A. This Festival is inspired by and a homage to the CSUQ’s (csuq.org) Festival Séfarad de Montréal (festivalsefarad.ca), now in its 45th season.

    In collaboration with over 40 leading communal institutions, Festival Sefarad NYC will unfold across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island, a movable feast ensuring accessibility and welcoming participation from every corner of the Jewish community.

    With the support of the UJA-Federation of New York (ujafedny.org), Festival Sefarad NYC is more than a festival. It is a celebration of who Sephardis are, and who Sephardis can be together.

    The American Sephardi Federation (ASF – americansephardi.org)

    The festival is curated and produced by the American Sephardi Federation, headquartered at the Center for Jewish History. ASF preserves, celebrates, and promotes the history, traditions, and experiences and rich mosaic of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews as an essential part of the Jewish story and a vital component of the American and global Jewish future.

    ——————————————————————————

    NYSJFF RETURNS FOR 27TH YEAR

    Opening Night Awardees
    • By Mabel Pais
    Closing Night Performer (Credit: americansephardi.org)

    At the heart of the debut of the Festival Sefarad NYC is the 27th NEW YORK SEPHARDIC JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL (NYSJFF – nysjff.com). This unique cinematic celebration showcases premiere film screenings, exclusive artist conversations, and the Pomegranate Awards ceremony, recognizing Sephardic excellence in the arts.

    This year’s NYSJFF is part of the inaugural  Festival Sefarad NYC, a citywide celebration of Jewish joy, culture, and resilience, uniting communities through art, music, film, and conversation.

    The 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival (NYSJFF) returns to New York City bringing a powerful week-long celebration of film, music, community and the rich, diverse stories of the Greater Sephardic world.  From June 8 to June 15,  2025, audiences will experience exclusive film premieres, artist conversations, special performances, and the prestigious ASF Pomegranate Awards.

    The NYSJFF is dedicated to Ike, Molly and Steven Elias.

    This year’s NYSJFF is part of the inaugural Festival Sefarad NYC, a citywide celebration of Jewish joy, resilience, and unity made possible by the UJA-Federation.

    FILM SCREENING SCHEDULE

    Throughout the Week, Experience Exclusive Screenings  with  Premieres from France, Israel, Morocco, Iran & Beyond and Live Musical Performances, Including Grammy Winners at the American Sephardi Federation, Center of Jewish History, 15 West 16th Street, New York, NY 10011. (212) 294 8350.

    Films include

    World Premiere: YAEL

    U.S. Premiere: Jinxed

    U.S. Premiere: The Last Righteous Man (Baba Sali)

    New York Premiere: Matchmaking 2

    New York Premiere: The 90s – The Revelry (Hillula)

    For Festival schedule and updates, visit nysjff.eventive.org/schedule?viewMode=extended.

    OPENING NIGHT

    WHAT:  NYSJFF 2025

    WHERE: El Museo del Barrio

    1230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029

    WHEN:  June 8, 2025 @ 7pm

    The Opening Night of the 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival (nysjff.com) will take place in the stunning setting of El Museo del Barrio, New York’s leading Latino cultural institution located on 5th Avenue’s “Museum Mile.” It will be an unforgettable evening of joy, artistry, and community.

    AWARDS 

    The Festival will present the 2025 ASF Pomegranate Awards to honor vibrant Sephardi voices for outstanding achievements:

    Michel Boujenah

    Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Stage and Screen

    Fortuna

    Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Preservation of Sephardic Culture

    Roya Hakakian

    Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Literature

    Yael Naim

    Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Music

    The Pomegranates are sculpted with love by world-renowned, Baghdad-born artist Oded Halhamy.

    PERFORMANCE

    Following the award ceremony, enjoy the performance.

    Fortuna with Trio Mediterraneo, known for their soulful reinterpretations of Sephardic and Mediterranean music, will take the stage in a moving performance celebrating cultural continuity.

    The ensemble will be joined by special guest  Frank London, Grammy-winning trumpeter and co-founder of The Klezmatics.

    AND MORE!

    And get ready for more surprises that will make this evening even more magical!

    TICKETS & PASSES

    Individual Tickets, Festival-Week Passes, All-Access Passes and VIP Passes are available for purchase.

    There is a limited availability of VIP Passes. VIP Festival Pass holders will enjoy an exclusive reception before the awards ceremony, featuring a specially curated culinary experience, alongside honored guests. Learn more at nysjff.com/program-tickets and nysjff.com/passes.

    VIP Festival Pass

    The VIP Festival Pass gives access to All Events (including Opening & Closing Night Private Meet & Greet Receptions) & Screenings with VIP seating

    LIMITED AVAILABILITY

    All-Access Pass

    The All-Access Festival Pass gives access to All Events & Screenings, including Opening & Closing Night (excluding Private Meet & Greet Receptions)

    Festival Week Pass

    The Festival Week Pass includes all Movie Screenings, Q&As, and Special Daytime Events

    Opening Night Ticket

    The Opening Night ticket includes Awards Ceremony & Performance

    Closing Night Ticket

    This ticket includes the Closing Night Ceremony & Performance by Enrico Macias

    Space is limited; early reservations are highly recommended. Exclusive opportunities are also available on a first come, first served basis.

    For updates and more information, visit nysjff.com.

    SPONSORSHIP

    Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, visit nysff.com.

    CLOSING NIGHT – JUNE 15, 2025

    Closing Night Ceremony & Performance

    WHAT:  NYSJFF 2025

    WHERE: El Museo del Barrio

    1230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029

    WHEN:  June 15, 2025 7pm

    The grand finale of the 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival presents an extraordinary live performance by legendary French-Algerian singer Enrico Macias. Known for his soulful voice and timeless songs that celebrate peace, exile, and identity, Macias returns to New York following last year’s sold-out appearance to once again captivate audiences with his music and message.

    Set in the elegant theater at El Museo del Barrio, this special evening closes a week of powerful films and cultural reflection, honoring the rich tapestry of Sephardic Jewish life around the world. From North Africa to the Mediterranean and beyond, Enrico Macias embodies the spirit of Sephardic resilience and joy.

    This concert marks the closing of the Film Festival, but Festival Sefarad NYC continues with more events and celebrations throughout June.

    The New York Sephardi Jewish Film Festival (NYSJFF – nysjff.com)

    NYSJFF, also known as the Sephardic Film Festival, is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and storytelling. Since its inception in 1990, this festival has been a beacon of light, shining a cinematic spotlight on the diverse and rich tapestry of Sephardic Jewish communities.

    With each passing year, the NYSJFF continues to captivate audiences with its curated selection of films, ranging from powerful narratives to evocative documentaries. Through these cinematic masterpieces, viewers are transported to distant lands, from Morocco to India, from Yemen to Kurdistan, and beyond, experiencing the trials, triumphs, and traditions of Sephardic Jews.

    What sets this festival apart is its commitment to showcasing not only the grand narratives of history but also the intimate and personal stories that define individual experiences of Jewish identity. In an age where technology enables anyone with a camera to share their voice, the NYSJFF embraces this democratization of storytelling, encouraging filmmakers to explore and portray the multifaceted aspects of Jewish life with authenticity and creativity.

    This year’s NYSJFF is part of the inaugural  Festival Sefarad NYC, a citywide celebration of Jewish joy, culture, and resilience, uniting communities through art, music, film, and conversation.

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Education, Business, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, and Cuisine)

  • XIAN ZHANG CONDUCTS IN SEASON FINALE OF NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY

    XIAN ZHANG CONDUCTS IN SEASON FINALE OF NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY

    • By Mabel Pais

    The New Jersey Symphony will present its Season Finale concerts with Music Director Xian Zhang conducting Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony. Pianist Conrad Tao performs Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto, an audience favorite. Schedule of concert locations, dates, and times is below.

    PROGRAM

    Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich

    Season Finale Concerts

    Morristown – Thursday, June 5, 7:30 pm, Mayo Performing Arts Center

    Princeton – Friday, June 6, 8 pm, Richardson Auditorium

    Red Bank – Saturday, June 7, 8 pm, Count Basie Center for the Arts

    Newark – Sunday, June 8, 3 pm, NJPAC

    For more information on the event, visit njsymphony.org/program_notes/detail/program-notes—season-finale-rachmaninoff-and-shostakovich

    Xian Zhang conductor

    Conrad Tao piano

    New Jersey Symphony

    On the program:

    Sergei Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2

    Dmitri Shostakovich Symphony No. 5

    TICKETS

    For a complete list of concerts and information on tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.

    ARTISTS

    Xian Zhang

    2024–25 marks the GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning conductor Xian Zhang’s ninth season as music director of the New Jersey Symphony. Starting in 2025–26, Zhang will also hold the role of music director at Seattle Symphony. Zhang holds the position of conductor emeritus of Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano, having previously held the position of music director between 2009–2016.

    The 2024–25 season sees Zhang return to the Metropolitan Opera in New York to conduct David McVicar’s acclaimed production of Puccini’s Tosca. Read Xian’s bio @ njsymphony.org/musicians-orchestra/musical-leadership/xian-zhang.

    Conrad Tao

    Pianist and composer Conrad Tao has been dubbed “the kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music” by New York Magazine, and an artist of “probing intellect and open-hearted vision” by The New York Times. A soloist with leading orchestras in the traditional repertoire, Tao possesses an encyclopedic artistic approach and vision, as well as a stunning array of innovative and impactful projects.

    Tao’s 2024–25 season includes a return to Carnegie Hall in recital performing Debussy’s 12 Études, alongside Keyed In, a work arranged and improvised by Tao on the Lumatone. He also returns to the San Francisco Symphony to perform Tchaikovsky with Nicholas Collon, the Dallas Symphony to perform Mozart with Jaap van Zweden, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra to perform Saint-Saëns with David Danzmayr, and the Baltimore Symphony to perform Mozart with Jonathon Heyward. Read Conrad Tao’s bio @ conradtao.com.

    New Jersey Symphony

    New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 55 mainstage concerts across the state at venues in Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown, as well as at schools and public spaces statewide. Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diverse communities throughout the state, while providing students unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other education programs.

    In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal, and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026.

    For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org.

    Connect with NJ Symphony

    Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube

    ——————————————————-

    INDULGE IN A SENSATIONAL EVENING OF 70’S SOUL

    (front row) ‘Blue Notes’ singers and (rear row) ‘Heatwave’ singers (Credit: njpac.org)
    • By Mabel Pais

    Indulge in the vibrant sounds of the 70s with live performances by THE STYLISTICS, THE DELFONICS, BLUE MAGIC, THE BLUE NOTES and HEATWAVE at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Saturday, May 31, at 8 PM.

    This sensational evening features an extraordinary lineup of legendary artists who defined the era of R&B, funk, and Philadelphia soul. Get ready to be serenaded by the smooth harmonies of The Stylistics, whose romantic ballads that include ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New,’ ‘You Are Everything’ and more will sweep you off your feet.

    Experience the soulful melodies of The Delfonics, known for their exquisite vocal arrangements. With songs like, ‘Didn’t I Blow Your Mind This Time,’ ‘La-La Means I Love You’.

    Delight in the enchanting rhythms of Blue Magic, who will take you on a musical journey filled with unforgettable hit songs like ‘Sideshow,’ ‘Stop to Start,’ ‘Spell,’ ‘What’s Come Over Me.’

    The Blue Notes will bring their signature sound with moving songs like ‘Wake Up Everybody,’ ‘If You Don’t Know Me by Now’ and more.

    Don’t miss energetic performances with Heatwave that will ignite the stage with their infectious disco beats and lively energy of songs including, ‘Boogie Nights,’ ‘Always and Forever’ and more.

    Each group will showcase their greatest hits, seamlessly blending slow jams with upbeat dance numbers, enveloping you in an atmosphere of nostalgia and joy!

    Don’t miss this night of music that celebrates the essence of a remarkable decade — a night filled with timeless classics, smooth vocals, and the irresistible groove of disco. Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic of the 70s.

    TICKETS

    For tickets to 70s Soul, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).

    New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

    Learn more at NJPAC.org.

    Follow NJPAC Online:

    Website:    njpac.org

    Twitter:     @NJPAC

    Instagram:   @NJPAC

    Hashtag:    #NJPAC

    Facebook:   facebook.com/NJPAC

    YouTube:    NJPACtv

    Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:

    Website: njpac.org/takeastand

    Hashtag: #NJPACTakeAStand

    Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Education, Business, Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, and Cuisine)

  • POET. MOTHER. PROFESSOR. DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF 70+ YEARS!

    • By Mabel Pais

    “Let me wear the day

    Well so when it reaches you

    You will enjoy it.”

    Sonia Sanchez

    “This is not a small voice you hear / this is a large voice coming out of these cities.”

    – Sonia Sanchez

    (Extreme left) Sonia Sanchez with poets (Credit: NJPAC.org)

    Celebrate one of the most important writers and scholars of the Black Arts Movement, SONIA SANCHEZ. Throughout a distinguished career of 70+ years, her poetry has rocked the spoken-word scene and our nation. Join NJPAC as it gives well-deserved flowers to this revolutionary voice of activism, Black identity and social justice. Sanchez will take the stage, along with special guests the Christian McBride Trio, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Saul Williams, Mahogany L. Browne and The Last Poets at the NJPAC’s Victoria Theater on June 1 at 3 pm.

    “This world is a better place because of Sonia Sanchez: more livable, more laughable, more manageable. I wish millions of people knew that some of the joy in their lives comes from the fact that Sonia Sanchez is writing poetry.” – Maya Angelou

    “Sonia Sanchez is a lion in literature’s forest. When she writes she roars, and when she sleeps other creatures walk gingerly.” – Maya Angelou.

    “Only a poet with an innocent heart can exorcise so much pain with so much beauty.” – Isabel Allende

    “In all her words, Sanchez grabs your heart.” – Vibe

    Sonia Sanchez — poet, activist, scholar — was the Laura Carnell Professor of English and Women’s Studies at Temple University. She is the recipient of both the Robert Frost Medal for distinguished lifetime service to American poetry and the Langston Hughes Poetry Award. One of the most important writers of the Black Arts Movement, Sanchez is the author of sixteen books.  Motherhood heavily influenced the motifs of her poetry in the 1970s, with the bonds between mother and child emerging as a key theme.

    National and International lecturer on Black Culture and Literature, Women’s Liberation, Peace and Racial Justice. Sponsor of Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. Board Member of MADRE (international human rights organization).

    AUTHOR

    Sonia Sanchez is the author of over 16 books including ‘Homecoming,’ ‘We a BaddDDD People,’ ‘Love Poems,’ ‘I’ve Been a Woman,’ ‘Morning Haiku’ and more. More titles can be accessed at Beacon Press (beacon.org).

    In addition to being a contributing editor to ‘Black Scholar’ and ‘The Journal of African Studies,’ she has edited an anthology, ‘We Be Word Sorcerers: 25 Stories by Black Americans.’ ‘BMA: The Sonia Sanchez Literary Review’ is the first African American Journal that discusses the work of Sonia Sanchez and the Black Arts Movement.

    The Stella Adler Center for the Arts (stellaadler.com) decided to name its arts theater after Sonia Sanchez.

    AWARDS

    Sonia Sanchez is the recipient of numerous awards: National Endowment for the Arts, Outstanding Arts Award from the Pennsylvania Coalition of 100 Black Women;Community Service Award from the National Black Caucus of State Legislators; Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Humanities; Peace and Freedom Award from Women International League for Peace and Freedom (W.I.L.P.F.); PEW Fellowship in the Arts; the Langston Hughes Poetry Award; 2022 Barnes & Noble Writers for Writers Award! and more.

    She is the Poetry Society of America’s 2001 Robert Frost Medalist and a Ford Freedom Scholar from the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Her poetry also appeared in the movie ‘Love Jones.’ Sonia Sanchez has lectured at over 500 universities and colleges in the United States and has traveled extensively, reading her poetry in Africa, Cuba, England, the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, Nicaragua, the People’s Republic of China, Norway, and Canada. She was the first Presidential Fellow at Temple University and she held the Laura Carnell Chair in English at Temple University.

    POETRY

    She is the Poetry Society of America’s 2001 Robert Frost Medalist and a Ford Freedom Scholar from Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Her poetry also appeared in the movie ‘Love Jones.’ Sonia Sanchez has lectured at over 500 universities and colleges in the United States and has traveled extensively, reading her poetry in Africa, Cuba, England, the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, Nicaragua, the People’s Republic of China, Norway, and Canada. She was the first Presidential Fellow at Temple University and she held the Laura Carnell Chair in English at Temple University. She is the recipient of the Harper Lee Award, Alabama Distinguished Writer, and the National Visionary Leadership Award. Sonia Sanchez is one of 20 African American women featured in ‘Freedom Sisters,’ an interactive exhibition created by the Cincinnati Museum Center and Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition and she was the recipient of the Robert Creeley award.

    MOTHER

    Sonia Sanchez, a renowned poet, activist, and professor, also identifies as a mother. Motherhood significantly influenced her writing, particularly in the 1970s, with the bonds between mother and child becoming a prominent theme in her poetry. Learn more about Sonia Sanchez at soniasanchez.net.

    —————————————————————————–

    WHO IS READY TO EXPLORE THE WORLD OF FILM, TELEVISION & ENTERTAINMENT?

    FILM & TV (Credit: NJPAC.org)

    By Mabel Pais

    Are you a young artist (aged 13 – 18) who is ready to explore the world of film, television and entertainment? Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Career Day at NJPAC designed to connect with industry professionals and ignite your creative journey!

    What’s Happening?

    Join the NJPAC Center for Arts Education (24 Rector St, Newark, NJ 07102) for a day of exciting, hands-on film and TV master classes — led by industry pros eager to share insider tips, techniques and inspiration. Whether you’re a performer, designer or musician, there’s something for you.

    Learn. Create. Connect. Get Inspired.

    MORNING SESSIONS | 10:30AM – 12PM

    Choose one:

    The Actor & Director: Acting for Film

    Led by Hollywood Film Director Nicole Thompson

    Learn what directors want, and how to build your acting reel

    Music & Movies: Exploring the Film Score

    Led by Latin GRAMMY® Award-nominated Composer Andrés Soto

    Discover how music brings film to life, and explore your sound

    LUNCH BREAK | 12 – 1PM

    Enjoy pizza and explore resource tables packed with information on schools, training programs and career paths in film and TV.

    FREE Headshots

    Headshots with professional photographer Dashong (limited appointments available from 12 – 4PM)

    AFTERNOON SESSIONS | 1 – 3PM

    Choose one:

    Behind the Scenes: Scenic Design

    Led by Newark-based Scenic Designer Jeffrey Osborne

    Dive into set design, faux finishes and behind-the-scenes careers

    Hip Hop Cypher & Music Video Workshop

    Led by Unicorn 151

    Explore emceeing, music production and dance — and learn how it all comes together on film

    Opening Remarks at 10AM by Ed Hajim

    Philanthropist and founder of NJPAC’s Ed Hajim Professional Readiness Education program

    NJPAC Arts Education

    Learn more at njpac.org/arts-education.

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Education, Business, Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, and Cuisine)

  • Embassy of India Celebrates the 53rd Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations with Guatemala

    Embassy of India Celebrates the 53rd Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations with Guatemala

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): The Embassy of India in Guatemala, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Guatemala, commemorated the 53rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Guatemala with a special celebration on 15 May 2025. The event was graced by H.E. Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martínez the Foreign Minister of Guatemala and Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Ambassador of India. The celebration witnessed the presence of approximately 200 distinguished guests. These included members of the diplomatic corps, senior officials from various ministries, prominent dignitaries, business leaders, friends of India, and members of the Indian community in Guatemala.

    Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martínez, Foreign Minister of Guatemala, delivers his remarks during the 53rd anniversary celebration, commending India’s contributions in health, energy, technology, and humanitarian cooperation.

    The celebration highlighted the growing strength of India-Guatemala bilateral ties which are rooted in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a commitment to global peace and sustainable development. The two countries have maintained close political cooperation through high-level engagements and multilateral collaboration. This anniversary served as a moment to reaffirm the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, with a focus on expanding collaboration in trade, development cooperation, digital technologies, and infrastructure.

    Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martínez, Foreign Minister of Guatemala, pays floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, honoring his legacy of peace, non-violence, and universal brotherhood during the 53rd anniversary celebration of India-Guatemala diplomatic ties.

    During the event, Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra emphasized that the growing India–Guatemala partnership is rooted in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a forward-looking vision focused on innovation, inclusive growth, and cultural exchange. Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martínez welcomed India’s expanding footprint in Guatemala, appreciating its contributions in health, education, technology, and infrastructure, and reaffirmed Guatemala’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation.

    As part of India’s ongoing commitment to providing holistic humanitarian health assistance, the occasion was also utilized to formally hand over a confirmation letter to the Ministry of Defense of Guatemala for the organization of an artificial limb fitment camp within the Ministry’s premises. The letter was presented by Dr. Prem Bhandari, Chairman, Jaipur Foot USA, to the Executive Secretary of CONRED, Ms. Claudinne Ogaldes and Inspector General of the Army from Ministry of Defense, Mr. William Oswaldo Sierra Sam. The proposed camp is planned to run for approximately 50 days and aims to provide around 600+ prosthetic limbs to the beneficiaries of Guatemala. This initiative will be carried out by a dedicated team from Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), consisting of seven skilled technicians and two team leaders. The necessary machinery and equipment for the camp are expected to arrive at a Guatemalan port in September 2025, with operations scheduled to begin in October 2025.

    Distinguished guests pay homage at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi

    Cultural and people-to-people connections continue to serve as a cornerstone of India-Guatemala relations. The Embassy’s efforts in cultural diplomacy have seen great success, notably the International Day of Yoga 2024 celebration at Mariscal Zavala which attracted over 5,000 participants, one of the largest in Americas and probably one of the largest in the world outside India. Building on this momentum, the Embassy, in partnership with the Governor of Cobán, the Ministry of Education, Asociación Centro Don Bosco, and the Municipalities of Talita Kumi and San Pedro Carchá, is organizing what is expected to be the largest-ever IDY celebration outside India. Scheduled to be held in Carchá on 13 June 2025, the event is projected to draw around 12,000 participants, with nearly 10,000 registrations already confirmed. In recognition of the shared values of peace and non-violence, and acknowledging the Asociación Centro Don Bosco’s deep commitment to Gandhian principles, especially in light of its historical experience during Guatemala’s civil war, Ambassador handed over the approval of Government of India for gifting of three busts of Mahatma Gandhi to the Association, which would be inaugurated during the IDY event in Coban.

    Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra with Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martinez, Foreign Minister of Guatemala, alongside Ms Claudienne Ogaldes, Executive Secretary of CONRED, and Mr. William Oswaldo Sierra Sam, Inspector General of the Army, Ministry of Defense at the 53rd anniversary celebration of India-Guatemala diplomatic ties.

    Economic and commercial ties between India and Guatemala have shown remarkable progress in recent years with a bilateral trade of US$663 million in 2024. India is now among Guatemala’s key Asian partners in trade and investment. Indian companies such as Pakka Inc and various textile firms have made significant investments in Guatemala, generating employment and contributing to industrial growth. BPO companies linked to Indian entities are already employing over 10,000 Guatemalans. India’s multifaceted engagement with Guatemala has witnessed significant developments across various sectors. Indian companies are currently undertaking a feasibility study to explore possibility to open three major data centers in the Central American region, two of which are identified in Guatemala. Another Indian company has committed a substantial investment of USD 150 million in the Petén region for vegetable oil production, contributing to agro-industrial development and job creation. Under the SICA-India cooperation framework, India continues to support Early Warning Systems (EWS) to enhance disaster resilience in the region. Through a collaboration with UNDP, the Open Learning Exchange initiative is targeting education enhancement, reaching one million learners across Guatemala. In a humanitarian gesture, India has donated several Indian generic medicines to municipalities across the country, supporting local healthcare systems.

    The Guatemalan Transport Association’s recent visit to India has opened avenues for a transformative public mobility initiative, with a potential order of thousands of buses. In Xela, a USD 1.2 billion urban infrastructure development projects are under discussion, further cementing bilateral cooperation. Recognizing the Ambassador of India’s contributions, the Municipality of Xela conferred its highest civilian honor on him. Earlier this year, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala participated in the prestigious CII Partnership Summit, further underlining the robust engagement between the two nations.

    Distinguished guests, including high-ranking officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Indian community, gathered to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of India-Guatemala diplomatic relations.

    The Embassy of India has facilitated the formation of the India-Guatemala Chamber of Commerce & Industry to strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation. The Chamber aims to serve as a key platform for connecting businesses, fostering partnerships, and promoting economic engagement between the two countries. The successful implementation of a waste-to-energy/ compost project at Oakland Mall has set the tone for sustainable partnerships, with a second project underway at Miraflores, Guatemala City. To promote Indian film Industry and Indian movies in the Central American region, Embassy organized an Indian Film Festival across 20 locations in Guatemala, which was met with widespread appreciation. These collaborations underline India’s commitment to contributing to Guatemala’s development priorities through innovation and sustainable practices.

    The event on 15 May served not only as a celebration of the past 53 years of diplomatic ties but also as a reaffirmation of the shared vision for a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for India and Guatemala.

    (Based on a press release issued by Mr. Ramesh Khulbey)

  • Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari Visits Guatemala to Commemorate 53rd Anniversary of India–Guatemala Diplomatic Relations

    Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari Visits Guatemala to Commemorate 53rd Anniversary of India–Guatemala Diplomatic Relations

    NEW YORK / GUATEMMALA CITY (TIP): Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, visited Guatemala at the invitation of Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Ambassador of India to Guatemala, to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Guatemala. During the visit, it was announced that the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has approved a Jaipur Foot camp in Guatemala to benefit over 600 differently-abled individuals. Under the flagship humanitarian initiative “India for Humanity,” these individuals will receive the globally acclaimed Jaipur Foot artificial limbs free of cost. The camp will be conducted by Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), the parent organization of Jaipur Foot USA.

    An official confirmation of the camp was formally handed over by Prem Bhandari, on behalf of the Indian Embassy in Guatemala and Jaipur Foot, to Ms. Claudine Ogaldes, Executive Secretary, and Mr. William Oswaldo, Inspector General of the Army, Ministry of Defense.

    The event was graced by H.E. Mr. Carlos Ramiro Martínez, Foreign Minister of Guatemala, and Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, along with distinguished members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, prominent business leaders, friends of India, and members of the Indian community in Guatemala. Mr. Bhandari was accompanied by Mr. Rajeev Bhambhri, General Secretary of Jaipur Foot USA.

    As part of the commemoration, floral tributes were paid to Mahatma Gandhi, honoring his timeless legacy of peace, compassion, and service to humanity.

    Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra also announced that the Embassy of India in Guatemala is set to host the largest International Day of Yoga celebration outside India, scheduled for June 13. With 10,000 registrations already received and an expected turnout of 12,000, the event promises to be historic. An invitation has been extended to renowned yoga guru and Chancellor of S-VYASA, Dr. H.R. Nagendra, to grace the occasion.

    Guatemalan girls from Nataraja Dance School performing Rajasthan’s famous Ghoomer dance

    A group of Guatemalan girls from the local Nataraja Dance School performed Rajasthan’s famous Ghoomer dance, to the delight of Mr. Prem Bhandari, a Rajasthani, and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA). Mr. Prem Bhandari, on behalf of RANA, honored the performers and Nataraja Dance School with a cash award of $1000.00.

    Pleased with the dance performance of the Guatemalan girls from Nataraja Dance School, Mr. Prem Bhandari, on behalf of Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) honored them with a cash award of $1000.00.
    Seen in the picture, from L to R: Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Mr. Prem Bhandari, Maestro Satva Anand, Mr. Javier Renoso, and Mr. Rajeev Bhambri.

    Speaking to ANI, Chairman Prem Bhandari expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting BMVSS as a partner for organizing Jaipur Foot camps across Asia, Latin America, and Africa under the India for Humanity initiative. The upcoming camp in Guatemala will be the 33rd under this initiative.

    Since its inception in 1975 by Padma Bhushan Dr. D.R. Mehta, Jaipur Foot (BMVSS) has conducted 114 international camps, providing limbs and assistive devices to nearly 2.3 million beneficiaries worldwide.
    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Birthday Predictions- May 19 to May 25

    Birthday Predictions- May 19 to May 25

    •  By Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla 

    May 19 

    Ganesha says your merited gratitude and accolades will be bestowed upon you today. This is a very profitable time to make real estate investments. Speculating, however, is harmful and is to be avoided. You’ll be satisfied with the amicable resolution of the legal difficulties that have been bugging you. The happiness of your spouse and children will both be significant sources. Your parents’ health will deteriorate as a result of your stress, and you’ll be troubled by the rising cost of healthcare for your family.

    May 20

    Ganesha says you will have some fantastic possibilities today, but you must seize them before others do. Profits from prior investments will accrue. It’s a great time to do things you like and that make you feel happy. a long-distance excursion for fun or a pilgrimage is likely. Your health will continue to be excellent, but you’ll start to worry about an elderly family member’s well-being. During this time, you’ll make a lot of worthwhile new friends and contacts.

    May 21

    Ganesha says although you have great talent and enjoy taking on challenges, you need to rein in your tendency to rule outright, overspend, and occasionally act destructively. You will benefit financially and physically on this day. You will experience great gains because of your high energy. Real estate speculation will result in substantial profits. Both work and pleasure trips will take place far from home. Children need to focus more on their careers. Health will be more or less fine notwithstanding some initial problems.

    May 22

    Ganesha says new opportunities and hope are promised for the future. Your successes will be proportionate to your efforts, but we’ll undoubtedly have luck on our side. Your creativity will be at an all-time high, and your imagination and abilities will work wonders for you. Your relationships with those in positions of authority will open up the best prospects for you. Do not engage in rash speculation as sudden gains and losses are anticipated. Children will bring good news.

    May 23

    Ganesha says you are effective and truthful, but you need to restrain your tendency to occasionally act enviously and stubbornly. Your investments will result in new profits today, and you’ll spend more on luxuries and other creature comforts. Pleasant romantic entanglements will occur, and there will be excellent opportunities to form a marriage alliance. you will become moved by religious impulses, leading you to travel on a pilgrimage. Expect to receive gifts and delights in kind and in cash, but you may be surprised by some unforeseen costs.

    May 24

    Ganesha says in order to gain from your plans, you should start early. Long-term gains will be attained as a result of your efforts during this time. Time when investing in real estate is advantageous. Your priority list will include romance. A new arrival also appears to be a possibility. As you take a job with more responsibility and position, your financial situation will get better. The entire family’s spirits will rise if some exciting news comes in from distant relatives. It will be fun to travel and journey.

    May 25

    Ganesha says at work, more responsibilities are asked of you. This would make you popular with your employer and help you receive incentives. Working on fresh concepts would help you earn more money. The spouse is predicted to reveal some exciting information. For some people, long-distance travel, possibly even abroad, might be extremely enjoyable and fulfilling. You should learn to control your impulsive, vengeful, and occasionally grumpy behavior.

  • Weekly Horoscope-May 19, 2025  to May 25, 2025

    Weekly Horoscope-May 19, 2025  to May 25, 2025

    • By Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla 

    Aries

    Ganesha says this week is the time for new beginnings. You will be full of energy and enthusiasm, which will help you succeed in your work. This week is favorable for creativity and new ideas. Your social life will also see warmth. Spending time with friends and family will give you mental relief. You will also feel the desire to help them, which will strengthen the relationship. However, keep in mind that it is important to take care of your health. Do not ignore small symptoms, and make it a habit to exercise regularly. This will increase your confidence, and you will be able to perform better in every aspect of life. In terms of love, you will value deep communication with your partner. Conversation will bring you closer to each other. If you are single, then this is the time to start a new relationship. In summary, this week is the time for new opportunities and relationships for you. Move forward with a positive attitude, and whatever you do, do it with all your heart.

    Taurus

    Ganesha says this week, the circumstances are going to be quite positive. It is time to balance your personal and professional life. This week will allow you to recognize and use your inner strength. On the professional front, your ideas and efforts will be appreciated, which will increase your confidence. Collaboration with team members will help in achieving better results. You may get a chance to work on an important project, where your hard work will pay off. In personal life, there will be a sense of dedication and trust in relationships. Spending time with your partner will be important to understand your feelings. Doing an activity together with the family will establish a cordial relationship. This week, it is important to focus on health. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will help maintain your energy levels. Spending some time alone will be beneficial for mental peace. Use time properly and move forward towards your goals. Remember, stability and patience will be your biggest helpers.

    Gemini

    Ganesha says this week, you will feel a deep connection with the world around you. Your natural curiosity and ability to communicate will help you gain new knowledge. Spending time with family and friends will bring happiness and satisfaction to the mind. You will also feel motivated to participate in social events, where your ideas and suggestions will be appreciated. In the work sphere, you will get the opportunity to showcase your abilities. You may get many positive responses due to your hard work and dedication. Focus on new projects to develop your thinking ability. Be health conscious. Taking some time out for exercise will be beneficial for your mental and physical health. Practicing yoga or meditation will bring mental peace. Remember, your thoughts and communication will be important for you this week. Be ready to take advantage of many opportunities. Keep disappointments away and trust your intuition.

    Cancer

    Ganesha says this week will bring new energy to you. You will feel positive changes in the circumstances around you. Time spent with family will bring you happiness, and you can build deeper relationships with your loved ones. Your mental health will be good this week, giving you more clarity in tasks. There may be some challenges in work life, but your intelligence and sensitivity will show you the right path. In terms of the economy, it is necessary to pay attention to your expenses. Making a plan for savings can be beneficial. In social life, you can make new friends, which can open the door to a new opportunity for you. It is important to be health-conscious. By taking a balanced diet and doing yoga or exercise, you will be able to maintain your energy. The most important message of this week is – maintain the emotional balance within you and enjoy every moment of life.

    Leo

    Ganesha says this week, new possibilities and opportunities will open up in various fields. Your self-confidence and warm personality will spread all around, due to which people will be attracted to you. At the workplace, your ideas and suggestions will prove to be very important, so do not miss sharing your ideas. In personal life, spending time with family will be pleasant for you. Plan a trip somewhere or organize small gatherings, and this will give you mental peace. This week, there will be newness in your love relationship as well and enjoy a special moment with your partner. In terms of health, regular exercise and meditation will keep you full of energy. Pay attention to your health during this period, so that you can remain mentally and physically healthy. The message is that this week, recognize your favorable opportunities and adopt them properly, so that there is no hindrance to your progress. Move forward with positivity and self-confidence.

    Virgo

    Ganesha says his week will bring new possibilities and opportunities for you. You will be very active in terms of work, and you will also get the fruits of your hard work. During this time, use your creativity, as it will provide you with new ideas and perspectives. Your relationships will become warmer. There will be harmony in the family, and mutual understanding will increase. A sense of friendship and cooperation will increase which will help you in complex situations. In terms of health, try to organize your routine a bit. Yoga and meditation will keep you mentally and physically stable. Whatever decision you make this week, take it thoughtfully. Your awareness and discretion will help you choose the right path. Keep moving towards your goals, and maintain a positive attitude.

    Libra

    Ganesha says this week is a time of balance and harmony. Your social life will be active, and there will be opportunities to make new relationships. Time spent with your friends and family will give you mental peace. Your creativity will be at its peak, so if you have worked on an art or writing project, this is the best time to complete it. At work, collaborating with colleagues will help you achieve big goals. Make sure you do not rush into making decisions that can have long-term effects on you. Trust your intuition and take steps thoughtfully. In terms of health, it is important to take some peace and relaxation. Yoga or meditation can help improve your mental health. Overall, this week is suitable for you for growth and relationships. Move forward, full of positivity and creativity. 

    Scorpio

    Ganesha says this week is an encouraging time. Positive changes can come in your general life. Your hard work and dedication are likely to be rewarded in the workplace. Relations with colleagues will improve, which will also improve teamwork. There will be an atmosphere of joy in family matters as well. Spend time with your loved ones, it will be beneficial for your mental health. Due to your infectious zodiac sign, you will inspire people around you and spread positive energy. Romantic life is also expected to improve. For those who are single, there is a possibility of a new relationship. People will be attracted to you due to your charismatic personality. Keep in mind that it is important to keep the mind calm this week. Yoga and meditation will help you stay balanced. Try to take time to pay attention to any basic problem and solve it. Thus, this week is full of momentum for you, so do not miss out on taking advantage of the opportunities.

    Sagittarius

    Ganesha says this week, you will get many positive opportunities, which will increase your confidence. You will be in a position to touch new heights in both personal and professional life. Your relationship with colleagues at the workplace will become stronger, and if you are working on a new project, your efforts will be successful. This week is also suitable for travel. If you are planning a long journey, then this is a good time for it. During the journey, you will get a chance to share new experiences, and it will expand your perspective. Your social life will also be bustling. Spending time with friends and family will make you happy. You may get an opportunity to participate in a festival or function, which will open the way for you to create new networks. In terms of health, pay attention to your mental health. Do some meditation and yoga, which will restore your energy, and you will be even more focused. This week is about maintaining balance for you, so do not forget to strike a proper balance between work and rest. In short, this week is full of possibilities for you. Move forward with positivity and enthusiasm and keep moving towards your goals.

    Capricorn

    Ganesha says this week, you will experience positive changes in your professional life. The hard work and efforts you have put in will start yielding results, which will increase your confidence. Communicating with colleagues will be important; with their help, you will be able to solve many problems. In personal life, there is a good opportunity to spend time with family and friends. This time will help in strengthening your relationships further. If there is an old dispute going on, try to resolve it. This time is very suitable for your patience and understanding. Be health conscious. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. Take the help of meditation or yoga to reduce mental stress. In financial matters, do not consider any new investment. Focus on existing expenses and avoid unnecessary expenses. This is the time to be patient. Be ready to embrace new possibilities this week. Your ambition and responsibility can take you to new heights. Move forward and keep moving towards your dreams.

    Aquarius

    Ganesha says this week, you will be full of new ideas and creativity. You will be active in your social life and will get the opportunity to increase your knowledge by meeting new people. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so do not miss any chance to connect with them. At this time, your mental health is important. Adequate rest and meditation will be beneficial for you. Attending a yoga or meditation session will help calm your mind. In the field of business, your efforts will be appreciated but be a little patient. Avoid confrontational situations and move forward in a spirit of cooperation. Your ideas have good prospects in business plans, but they may take time to implement. Emotionally, this week is all about improving relationships and increasing mutual understanding. Talk openly with your loved ones and share your ideas. This will deepen your relationships. Overall, this week is a time of new opportunities, creative ventures, and strengthening relationships. Take care of your mental and emotional health and focus on the positive aspects.

    Pisces

    Ganesha says this week indicates a new beginning for you. This is the time for self-exploration and emotional growth. You will feel inspired to recognize and manifest your creativity. Interest in some art or hobby may increase, which will also positively affect your mental health. Your relationships with family and friends will become stronger. Some important conversations can deepen your close relationships. Participating in social events will give you new knowledge and experience, which can prove beneficial for you in the future. In the field of career, this week can bring opportunities for you. If you have started working on a new project, it can be fruitful for you. With hard work and dedication, you will be able to achieve your goals. In terms of health, practice meditation and yoga to reduce stress. Expressing your emotions will bring mental peace. The flow of positivity and creativity throughout the week will bring joy and enthusiasm to your life. Listen to your inner voice and keep walking on your path!

  • SPRING INTO MUSIC TO CELEBRATE GOV KEAN’S MILESTONE BIRTHDAY AND MORE

    • By Mabel Pais

    The curtain rises on an unforgettable evening when cultural, social and business leaders will join the NJ Symphony for a timeless allure celebrating the extraordinary legacy of Governor Thomas H. Kean on his 90th birthday (details below).

    PROGRAM

    Spring into Music Gala & Auction

    WHAT:  Gala, Auction & Celebration of Gov Kean’s 90th Birthday

    WHEN:  Thursday, May 29

    6:00 pm: Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction

    7:30 pm: Private Concert & Gala Dinner

    WHERE: Pleasant dale Chateau in West Orange

    757 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052

    (973) 731-5600

    EVENT DETAILS

    Download the event details, reservation form and advertising information at njsymphony.org/assets/doc/NJ-Symphony-Spring-Gala-Sponsorship-Brochure-021025-eafb94a437.pdf.

    Governor Thomas H. Kean (Credit: njsymphony.org)

    Governor Thomas H. Kean, a visionary leader whose lifelong commitment to education, culture, and public service has profoundly shaped New Jersey and beyond. Throughout his distinguished career — as Governor, educator, and statesman — Gov. Kean has championed the belief that the arts are essential to a thriving society. Under his leadership, New Jersey became a national model for arts education, with initiatives that integrated music, theater, and visual arts into schools across the state.

    Join the New Jersey Symphony at this special event as they celebrate Governor Kean’s milestone birthday and his profound impact on the arts in  the state at the annual spring fundraiser! You will also be immersed into the world of the legendary opera ‘Carmen’ and transported to 19th-century Seville for a dazzling night of music, flair, and philanthropy.

    This unforgettable evening is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring while providing critical funding to the Symphony’s expansive educational offerings. Your support helps build the next generation of listeners and musicians.

    Net proceeds will support the artistic and educational programs of the Symphony. Donor support sparks exciting possibilities and opens new pathways to success and access to the arts for the youth and communities the New Jersey Symphony serves.

    ONLINE AUCTION

    May 19–29!

    Bid on fabulous items — from restaurant gift cards to vacation getaways — all while supporting music education and community outreach. Interested in donating to the auction? NJ Symphony welcomes goods, services, unique experiences, art, wine and spirits, vacation home rentals, and more. You can even purchase a gift card to support a local business and donate it!

    For more information, please contact Jesse Goodale, manager of special events, at 973.735.1729 or events@njsymphony.org.

    DONATIONS

    Your generous support directly benefits the Symphony’s education and community engagement programs, which bring music into classrooms, provide hands-on learning experiences for students, and make live music accessible to all.

    Donate at one.bidpal.net/springintomusic/browse/donation(details:item/1)

    Donate an auction item at one.bidpal.net/springintomusic/donate-item?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=The%20Spring%20into%20Music%20Gala%20%26%20Auction%20is%20this%20month!&utm_campaign=Dev%20-%20Spring%20into%20Music%20Gala%20%26%20Auction%20Email%20%234

    TICKETS

    To purchase a ticket or a ticket package, visit one.bidpal.net/springintomusic/ticketing(details:ticketing-summary).

    Next Gen (ages 21-40) tickets have a discounted price.

    DRESS CODE: Festive Cocktail

    Gala sponsors and supporters will enjoy benefits including:

    Reception: Savor a lavish cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres, open bar, music and a few dazzling surprises.

    Concert & Dinner: Enjoy a private musical performance by members of the New Jersey Symphony and students of the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra.

    Online & Silent Auction: The auction offers fabulous items-from restaurant gift cards to vacation getaways.

    ACCOMMODATION

    A limited number of rooms are available for overnight stays at the Chateau, sold separately. Inquire directly with the chateau for pricing. 

    Pleasantdale Chateau

    Learn more at pleasantdale.com

    New Jersey Symphony

    New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 55 mainstage concerts across the state at venues in Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown, as well as at schools and public spaces statewide. Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diverse communities throughout the state, while providing students unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other education programs.

    In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal, and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026.

    For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org. 

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Education, Business, Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, and Cuisine)