India is optimistic that the repeat trade with Russia will increase in the future after both countries finalize terms to enable commerce in local currencies.

WION Fineprint: Will rupee trade with Russia increase?

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts. While both movies are in a close race at the domestic box office, Vijay's Varisu clearly outperformed Ajith's Thunivu during the course of the opening weekend.&nbsp;Ajith Kumar and Vijay both had movies released on the same day after a nine-year hiatus. Thunivu had the first-day box office advantage in Tamil Nadu, but Varisu overtook starting on day two. According to trade sources, Varisu and Thunivu both surpassed the $100 crore mark at the Indian box office in their first weekend.

On Monday, Ramesh Bala, a trade expert, tweeted that both movies were performing well in India. He acknowledged that both movies had made over 100 crore at the Indian box office. The Vijay-starring movie has, however, decisively surpassed Ajith's movie in important overseas countries like the US, UK, and some other locations, giving Varisu a minor edge over Thunivu at the worldwide box office. Varisu has already made almost $1 million in the US, whereas Thunivu has only made $900,000. Last Wednesday, Varisu and Thunivu were equally distributed across Tamil Nadu's theatres. Shows were scheduled as early as 1 am, so fans celebrated the debut of both movies in full force by staying up all night.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thunivu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thunivu</a> has entered the ₹ 100 Cr Club at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> Box office..
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1614809763858247682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Ajith, director H. Vinoth and producer Boney Kapoor, all three of them worked together once again on the heist thriller Thunivu. Manju Warrier also plays a significant part in the movie. The movie, which is primarily set within a bank, is on financial fraud and how it affects the general people. The family drama Varisu, which features Vijay, centres on the youngest son attempting to take over his father's business empire while facing fierce opposition from his two older siblings. The movie, which was also Vijay's Telugu debut, was directed by Vamshi Paidipally and also had a Tamil and a Telugu version. Key parts in the movie are also played by Rashmika Mandanna, Srikanth, Sarath Kumar, Shaam and Jayasudha.

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts.

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts. While both movies are in a close race at the domestic box office, Vijay's Varisu clearly outperformed Ajith's Thunivu during the course of the opening weekend. Ajith Kumar and Vijay both had movies released on the same day after a nine-year hiatus. Thunivu had the first-day box office advantage in Tamil Nadu, but Varisu overtook starting on day two. According to trade sources, Varisu and Thunivu both surpassed the $100 crore mark at the Indian box office in their first weekend. On Monday, Ramesh Bala, a trade expert, tweeted that both movies were performing well in India. He acknowledged that both movies had made over 100 crore at the Indian box office. The Vijay-starring movie has, however, decisively surpassed Ajith's movie in important overseas countries like the US, UK, and some other locations, giving Varisu a minor edge over Thunivu at the worldwide box office. Varisu has already made almost $1 million in the US, whereas Thunivu has only made $900,000. Last Wednesday, Varisu and Thunivu were equally distributed across Tamil Nadu's theatres. Shows were scheduled as early as 1 am, so fans celebrated the debut of both movies in full force by staying up all night. #Thunivu has entered the ₹ 100 Cr Club at the #India Box office.. — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 16, 2023 × Ajith, director H. Vinoth and producer Boney Kapoor, all three of them worked together once again on the heist thriller Thunivu. Manju Warrier also plays a significant part in the movie. The movie, which is primarily set within a bank, is on financial fraud and how it affects the general people. The family drama Varisu, which features Vijay, centres on the youngest son attempting to take over his father's business empire while facing fierce opposition from his two older siblings. The movie, which was also Vijay's Telugu debut, was directed by Vamshi Paidipally and also had a Tamil and a Telugu version. Key parts in the movie are also played by Rashmika Mandanna, Srikanth, Sarath Kumar, Shaam and Jayasudha.

Varisu and Thunivu Box Office Collection: Films cross ₹100 cr club in India over opening weekend

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world.&nbsp;

Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines."

The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities.&nbsp;

His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award.&nbsp;

Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-g20-presidency-at-critical-time-will-provide-solutions-says-chief-coordinator-harsh-shringla-549951">"India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla</a>

The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country.&nbsp;

India-Guyana relations

"There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said.

"Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added.

On rise of India

"India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking.

Vaccine Maitri

"During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said.

His India connection

"India is our motherland..,” the president said.&nbsp;

WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency

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Voice of the global south summit

"Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said.&nbsp;

Oil exports to India

"Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali.&nbsp;

Defence co-operation

"We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said.

Guyana's economic progress

"Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added.

Support for India's bid at UNSC

"We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated.&nbsp;

Climate change

"We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said.&nbsp;

West's Climate Change commitments

"(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines." The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities. His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award. Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September. ALSO READ| "India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country. India-Guyana relations "There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said. "Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added. On rise of India "India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking. Vaccine Maitri "During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said. His India connection "India is our motherland..,” the president said. WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency Voice of the global south summit "Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said. Oil exports to India "Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali. Defence co-operation "We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said. Guyana's economic progress "Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added. Support for India's bid at UNSC "We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated. Climate change "We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said. West's Climate Change commitments "(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Guyana President Irfaan Ali lauds India's leadership amid Covid pandemic

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration."

India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by an Indian Oil Corporation.

He also spoke about India's ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative that "really helped" New Delhi and "its India's image, that we will help others no matter what".

India under the Vaccine Maitri exported Covid vaccines to almost 100 countries including Guyana. He also spoke on the diaspora connection, the visit of the President of Guyana's India visit, Guyana's economy among other things. Here are some key excerpts.&nbsp;

<h2>Views on Indian diaspora</h2>

"Guyana has 39% diaspora of Indian origin and the connect has been for last 183 years,” he said.

"Indo-Guyanese have retained Indian roots, even though it has been 183 years. They celebrate all the Indian festivals. The cuisines, the religion, the traditions. If you go to a mandir in Guyana, it seems you have entered a time capsule because of the bhajans from eastern UP, Western Bihar. Traditions have remained, old Bhojpuri songs."

<h2>Guyana President Irfaan Ali's India connect</h2>

"Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha university under ITEC scholarship of Indian govt. This is his fourth visit to India, one as a student, one as a MP and a minister. This is the first time he has come as a head of state"

<h2>India-Guyana cultural connect</h2>

"Holi is called&nbsp;Phagwa&nbsp;in Guyana, they sign&nbsp;chautals&nbsp;which are basically songs for Lord Krishna and Rama. They are sung in the same tone and depth as they are sung in eastern UP and Bihar. They celebrate all the important festivals, be it Holi, Shivratri, Diwali, Dussehra, or everything. On Diwali, they have a Diwali motorcade parade in which Diwali themes are played by the actors and lit up brilliantly. They do traditional Kartik arti."

"We get Guyanese youth and elderly people for an extensive journey for 3 weeks. We call it the Know India program. Under the know India program, every 2 months we get Guyanese youth and familiarize them with India. The elderly are taken on a pilgrimage called as&nbsp;Prabhas Tirth Dham Yojana."

"Whenever I talk to Indo-Guyanese, they talk eloquently about the links they have with India.I remember I went to a remote village a few months into covid, we were to help them with gift hampers, and giving them food. An old gentleman came, and when he knew who I was, he held my hand and became emotional. This was because I was the first Bharatiya, Indian he had seen in many decades. That is the emotion they have, this cultural connection will remain."

<h2>Guyana &amp; Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</h2>

"Guyana has been a long-standing partner for India through thick and thin. In fact, even though Guyana is a member of OIC, it has never associated itself with those resolutions."

<h2>Energy exports to India</h2>

Guyana started pumping out crude oil only in December 2020, and they are expected to pump 1.7 million barrels by 2035. At the same time, it will become the world's richest country per capita. They call it the “Dubai of the Caribbean".

"India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by the Indian Oil Corporation. This oil&nbsp;is the lifeline of countries. So, the government of India has been talking with the government of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration. Gas is one more sector, India can collaborate."&nbsp;

"We have signed a contract between Engineers India Limited and the government of Guyana for a project management contract, for an 800-million-dollar gas-to-energy project. It is interesting to know, implementing company for the project is an American company but it will be supervised by an Indian company."

<h2>India's vaccine diplomacy—'Vaccine Maitri’</h2>

"When I went to the hospital...everyone was waiting in the room when they realised who I was, that I was the Indian high commissioner. They thanked India, our country. They said, India is our saviour."

"Vaccine diplomacy really helped India. I tell you, today, if India has a good standing, it was reinforced. Today if I go to any govt, trust me nobody says no. It's India's image that we will help others no matter what. PM Modi, the Indian government has shown. Indian people have shown they are generous.”

India's support to Guyana

"India doesn't work on the relationship which is quid pro quo. We maintain our traditional relationship, our partnership across the world with a view of south-south cooperation. Guyana has been a beneficiary of this aid, a partnership with India. Be it the ITEC scholarship of which 650 Guyana nationals have taken advantage, his excellency is one of them.”

“The cricket stadium in Guyana was built by India for the world cup. We have given them pumps to deal with floods. Traffic lights in George town were installed by India. We have given them the Centre of excellence in IT. Currently infrastructure projects worth about $105 million, one is the ferry. We have roads, and hospitals that are being constructed"

<h2>Guyana's economy</h2>

"Guyana is wanting to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean.&nbsp;It has rich soil, abundant water, and good connectivity in the region. It has FTAs with all the Caribbean countries and Latin American countries...Guyana is offering a lot of land on the lease; they are looking for investors. Guyana can be one of the countries for our people. It is ready to give concessions in terms of tax concessions"

"Last year Guyana grew by 50 per cent. Crude oil will bring a lot of opportunities,” he added.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration." India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by an Indian Oil Corporation. He also spoke about India's ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative that "really helped" New Delhi and "its India's image, that we will help others no matter what". India under the Vaccine Maitri exported Covid vaccines to almost 100 countries including Guyana. He also spoke on the diaspora connection, the visit of the President of Guyana's India visit, Guyana's economy among other things. Here are some key excerpts. Views on Indian diaspora "Guyana has 39% diaspora of Indian origin and the connect has been for last 183 years,” he said. "Indo-Guyanese have retained Indian roots, even though it has been 183 years. They celebrate all the Indian festivals. The cuisines, the religion, the traditions. If you go to a mandir in Guyana, it seems you have entered a time capsule because of the bhajans from eastern UP, Western Bihar. Traditions have remained, old Bhojpuri songs." Guyana President Irfaan Ali's India connect "Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha university under ITEC scholarship of Indian govt. This is his fourth visit to India, one as a student, one as a MP and a minister. This is the first time he has come as a head of state" India-Guyana cultural connect "Holi is called Phagwa in Guyana, they sign chautals which are basically songs for Lord Krishna and Rama. They are sung in the same tone and depth as they are sung in eastern UP and Bihar. They celebrate all the important festivals, be it Holi, Shivratri, Diwali, Dussehra, or everything. On Diwali, they have a Diwali motorcade parade in which Diwali themes are played by the actors and lit up brilliantly. They do traditional Kartik arti." "We get Guyanese youth and elderly people for an extensive journey for 3 weeks. We call it the Know India program. Under the know India program, every 2 months we get Guyanese youth and familiarize them with India. The elderly are taken on a pilgrimage called as Prabhas Tirth Dham Yojana." "Whenever I talk to Indo-Guyanese, they talk eloquently about the links they have with India.I remember I went to a remote village a few months into covid, we were to help them with gift hampers, and giving them food. An old gentleman came, and when he knew who I was, he held my hand and became emotional. This was because I was the first Bharatiya, Indian he had seen in many decades. That is the emotion they have, this cultural connection will remain." Guyana & Organisation of Islamic Cooperation "Guyana has been a long-standing partner for India through thick and thin. In fact, even though Guyana is a member of OIC, it has never associated itself with those resolutions." Energy exports to India Guyana started pumping out crude oil only in December 2020, and they are expected to pump 1.7 million barrels by 2035. At the same time, it will become the world's richest country per capita. They call it the “Dubai of the Caribbean". "India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by the Indian Oil Corporation. This oil is the lifeline of countries. So, the government of India has been talking with the government of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration. Gas is one more sector, India can collaborate." "We have signed a contract between Engineers India Limited and the government of Guyana for a project management contract, for an 800-million-dollar gas-to-energy project. It is interesting to know, implementing company for the project is an American company but it will be supervised by an Indian company." India's vaccine diplomacy—'Vaccine Maitri’ "When I went to the hospital...everyone was waiting in the room when they realised who I was, that I was the Indian high commissioner. They thanked India, our country. They said, India is our saviour." "Vaccine diplomacy really helped India. I tell you, today, if India has a good standing, it was reinforced. Today if I go to any govt, trust me nobody says no. It's India's image that we will help others no matter what. PM Modi, the Indian government has shown. Indian people have shown they are generous.” India's support to Guyana "India doesn't work on the relationship which is quid pro quo. We maintain our traditional relationship, our partnership across the world with a view of south-south cooperation. Guyana has been a beneficiary of this aid, a partnership with India. Be it the ITEC scholarship of which 650 Guyana nationals have taken advantage, his excellency is one of them.” “The cricket stadium in Guyana was built by India for the world cup. We have given them pumps to deal with floods. Traffic lights in George town were installed by India. We have given them the Centre of excellence in IT. Currently infrastructure projects worth about $105 million, one is the ferry. We have roads, and hospitals that are being constructed" Guyana's economy "Guyana is wanting to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean. It has rich soil, abundant water, and good connectivity in the region. It has FTAs with all the Caribbean countries and Latin American countries...Guyana is offering a lot of land on the lease; they are looking for investors. Guyana can be one of the countries for our people. It is ready to give concessions in terms of tax concessions" "Last year Guyana grew by 50 per cent. Crude oil will bring a lot of opportunities,” he added.

India, Guyana technical teams to discuss oil trade, says Indian envoy K J Srinivasa 

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar gives India’s counter-response to China. He said that China tried to unilaterally change the status quo on the LAC in May 2020, amid the pandemic. Watch further to know more.

India has firmly responded to China: EAM S Jaishankar

Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June&nbsp;1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries.&nbsp;The victims were frequent moviegoers who had gone&nbsp;to watch the movie&nbsp;"Border" by J P Dutta.

With the release of&nbsp;a mini-series “Trial by Fire” on Netflix which is based on a book about the incident and the long-drawn court battle that ensued,&nbsp;we take an in-depth look at what exactly happened.&nbsp;

<h2>Uphaar Tragedy: What exactly happened on 13 June 1997?</h2>

On&nbsp;the morning on 13 June 1997,&nbsp;the larger of the two transformers on the ground floor of the Uphaar cinema caught fire at around 6:55 am. Despite the fact that the fire was quickly put out, the transformer was compromised, as reported by the&nbsp;Indian Express.&nbsp;

An electrician fixed it quickly, and the theatre was then opened. The transformer caught fire again because the repair wasn't done properly after one of its cables broke free and caused a lot of sparking.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/the-soft-and-untapped-power-of-hindi-language-552432">Did you know James Cameron's 'Avatar' films are subconsciously linked to India?</a>

According to reports, the transformer lacked an oil soak pit, which is required by law, and allowed the burning oil to spread to other places. Even distant automobiles were engulfed in the fire.&nbsp;

The theatre lost power, and smoke started to fill in. While viewers seated on the lower floor were able to find an escape, those seated on the balcony were trapped. As a result,&nbsp;59 people died inside due to asphyxiation -&nbsp;&nbsp;suffocation from a lack of oxygen.&nbsp;

Over 103 people&nbsp;were critically injured during a scramble to escape the theatre. Most importantly, it took fire tenders nearly an hour to get to the scene owing to traffic.

<h2>The lapses in safety measures</h2>

The tragic fire was caused by a number of failures in "safety measures." The&nbsp;Indian Express&nbsp;quoted senior advocate Harish Salve, who was appearing on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;High Court in 2007, “Safety measures, meant for panic situations, were not in place in the ill-fated theatre… the persons, who were getting financial gains from the operation of the cinema, were criminally liable for the lapses.”

The investigation stated that the generator that caught fire lacked safety features and, more crucially, was installed in a space that was being utilised as a parking lot which&nbsp;made it easier for gasoline-powered vehicles to catch fire, as reported by the Indian Express.

Additional information claimed that the generator had not received the periodic maintenance mandated by law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/relief-for-delhi-citys-temperature-not-likely-to-drop-to-subzero-amid-4-degree-celsius-prediction-552670">Relief for Delhi! City's temperature not likely to drop to subzero amid -4 degrees Celsius prediction</a>

When the theatre lost electricity, the movie hall became completely dark since it lacked emergency lighting, footlights, or exit lights. The audience was not informed of the fire via any public notice system, reported the Indian Express.&nbsp;

<h2>A protracted legal battle</h2>

Victims and surviving family members of the deceased sought to hold the theatre owners accountable in a protracted court case. 16 defendants, including the business owners Sushil and Gopal Ansal, were named in the original charge sheet submitted by the CBI conducting the investigation. However, the trial had many unexpected turns. Even now, there is a case of evidence tampering against the Ansals, thus the quest for justice continues.

The Ansal brothers were found guilty of criminal negligence in 2007, 10 years after the fire, and were given the maximum term that could be imposed in such a case: two years in jail. The Delhi High Court maintained the verdict but reduced the sentence to one year after a year.&nbsp;

The case was heard by the Supreme Court for over ten years. The two brothers were ordered to pay a fine of Rs 30 crores each in 2017, which was used to build a trauma centre, by the supreme court. Sushil Ansal, who has already served five months in prison, was spared additional time in prison due to his advanced age (77) and medical issues. Gopal was sentenced to a year in jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Compensation for the deceased's kin was set at Rs&nbsp;10 lakh for those above the age of 20, and Rs&nbsp;7.5 lakh for those under the age of 20. Each injured individual receives Rs&nbsp;1 lakh.

The brothers were convicted for tampering with evidence in a different case. A&nbsp;Delhi court sentenced both of them to seven years of simple jail in 2021. The court additionally fined each of the Ansals Rs&nbsp;2.5 crore. The brothers have challenged their conviction in this ongoing case.

<h2>Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy: The couple that lost their kids to the Uphaar tragedy</h2>

“We didn’t spend as much time with our children on this Earth as we have seeking justice for their murders. We are serving a living death sentence; it has been 26 years, and it is still on,” Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;before the release of the Netflix series&nbsp;that&nbsp;chronicles the couple's fight for justice.

In 2022,&nbsp;Gopal and Sushil Ansal were released from jail. The court had indicated that the ruling was based on taking the ages of the brothers into account, despite the fact that nothing could make up for what the victims' families had lost.&nbsp;

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Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June 1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries.

Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June 1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries. The victims were frequent moviegoers who had gone to watch the movie "Border" by J P Dutta. With the release of a mini-series “Trial by Fire” on Netflix which is based on a book about the incident and the long-drawn court battle that ensued, we take an in-depth look at what exactly happened. Uphaar Tragedy: What exactly happened on 13 June 1997? On the morning on 13 June 1997, the larger of the two transformers on the ground floor of the Uphaar cinema caught fire at around 6:55 am. Despite the fact that the fire was quickly put out, the transformer was compromised, as reported by the Indian Express. An electrician fixed it quickly, and the theatre was then opened. The transformer caught fire again because the repair wasn't done properly after one of its cables broke free and caused a lot of sparking. Also read | Did you know James Cameron's 'Avatar' films are subconsciously linked to India? According to reports, the transformer lacked an oil soak pit, which is required by law, and allowed the burning oil to spread to other places. Even distant automobiles were engulfed in the fire. The theatre lost power, and smoke started to fill in. While viewers seated on the lower floor were able to find an escape, those seated on the balcony were trapped. As a result, 59 people died inside due to asphyxiation - suffocation from a lack of oxygen. Over 103 people were critically injured during a scramble to escape the theatre. Most importantly, it took fire tenders nearly an hour to get to the scene owing to traffic. The lapses in safety measures The tragic fire was caused by a number of failures in "safety measures." The Indian Express quoted senior advocate Harish Salve, who was appearing on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the Delhi High Court in 2007, “Safety measures, meant for panic situations, were not in place in the ill-fated theatre… the persons, who were getting financial gains from the operation of the cinema, were criminally liable for the lapses.” The investigation stated that the generator that caught fire lacked safety features and, more crucially, was installed in a space that was being utilised as a parking lot which made it easier for gasoline-powered vehicles to catch fire, as reported by the Indian Express. Additional information claimed that the generator had not received the periodic maintenance mandated by law. Also read | Relief for Delhi! City's temperature not likely to drop to subzero amid -4 degrees Celsius prediction When the theatre lost electricity, the movie hall became completely dark since it lacked emergency lighting, footlights, or exit lights. The audience was not informed of the fire via any public notice system, reported the Indian Express. A protracted legal battle Victims and surviving family members of the deceased sought to hold the theatre owners accountable in a protracted court case. 16 defendants, including the business owners Sushil and Gopal Ansal, were named in the original charge sheet submitted by the CBI conducting the investigation. However, the trial had many unexpected turns. Even now, there is a case of evidence tampering against the Ansals, thus the quest for justice continues. The Ansal brothers were found guilty of criminal negligence in 2007, 10 years after the fire, and were given the maximum term that could be imposed in such a case: two years in jail. The Delhi High Court maintained the verdict but reduced the sentence to one year after a year. The case was heard by the Supreme Court for over ten years. The two brothers were ordered to pay a fine of Rs 30 crores each in 2017, which was used to build a trauma centre, by the supreme court. Sushil Ansal, who has already served five months in prison, was spared additional time in prison due to his advanced age (77) and medical issues. Gopal was sentenced to a year in jail. Compensation for the deceased's kin was set at Rs 10 lakh for those above the age of 20, and Rs 7.5 lakh for those under the age of 20. Each injured individual receives Rs 1 lakh. The brothers were convicted for tampering with evidence in a different case. A Delhi court sentenced both of them to seven years of simple jail in 2021. The court additionally fined each of the Ansals Rs 2.5 crore. The brothers have challenged their conviction in this ongoing case. Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy: The couple that lost their kids to the Uphaar tragedy “We didn’t spend as much time with our children on this Earth as we have seeking justice for their murders. We are serving a living death sentence; it has been 26 years, and it is still on,” Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy told The Indian Express before the release of the Netflix series that chronicles the couple's fight for justice. In 2022, Gopal and Sushil Ansal were released from jail. The court had indicated that the ruling was based on taking the ages of the brothers into account, despite the fact that nothing could make up for what the victims' families had lost. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Netflix's 'Trial by Fire': Everything about the Uphaar cinema fire of 1997

India and Suriname might be geographically far away but their linked in lot of ways, especially through a large Indian diaspora including the President of Suriname.

WION Exclusive: Suriname President Chandrikapersad "Chan" Santokhi speaks to WION

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr. K. J. Srinivasa spoke to WION during the President of Guyana Irfaan Ali's India visit. The President was on a week-long India visit which he started from Indore. In Indore he attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Speaking exclusively with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, pointed to the energy cooperation between the 2 countries. He said India last year took consignments of oil from the South American country, one by a Consortium by HPCL and another by Indian Oil Cooperation. Dr. K. J. Srinivasa belongs to the 2002 batch of India Foreign Service. He has worked in different capacities in the Indian Diplomatic Missions in Madrid (Spain) and Lima (Peru).

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr. K. J. Srinivasa speaks to WION

While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement in response to the media queries about the alleged indecent treatment by an official of the High Commission to the Indian woman.

“There is zero tolerance for misbehaviour and mistreatment of individuals visiting our Missions,” she said.

“While we are looking into this case, we are surprised at its timing and the manner in which it has been raised. There are robust mechanisms in place for redressal of all public grievances,” she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-collusion-suspected-after-attacks-on-chinese-nationals-in-afghanistan-551717">Read more:&nbsp;Pakistani collusion suspected after attacks on Chinese nationals in Afghanistan: Experts</a>

She also said that Pakistan attaches high importance to proper etiquette and behaviour towards all visa and consular applicants.

“All our diplomatic staff are under strict instructions to conduct themselves professionally,” said Baloch.

Earlier, it was reported that a female educationist had levelled serious charges of indecent behaviour and sexual advances by some senior staff members of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi when she visited to apply for a visa.

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While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi.

While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement in response to the media queries about the alleged indecent treatment by an official of the High Commission to the Indian woman. “There is zero tolerance for misbehaviour and mistreatment of individuals visiting our Missions,” she said. “While we are looking into this case, we are surprised at its timing and the manner in which it has been raised. There are robust mechanisms in place for redressal of all public grievances,” she added. Read more: Pakistani collusion suspected after attacks on Chinese nationals in Afghanistan: Experts She also said that Pakistan attaches high importance to proper etiquette and behaviour towards all visa and consular applicants. “All our diplomatic staff are under strict instructions to conduct themselves professionally,” said Baloch. Earlier, it was reported that a female educationist had levelled serious charges of indecent behaviour and sexual advances by some senior staff members of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi when she visited to apply for a visa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Islamabad responds to allegations of Indian woman accusing Pakistan High Commission staffer of misconduct

Two persons were killed after an avalanche hit Sonamarg in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Thursday. Watch this report to know more.

Avalanche hits Jammu and Kashmir, at least two killed

The Himalayan hill side town of Joshimath has been dubbed India’s sinking town. Once, bustling with tourists, today, Joshimath is a cautionary tale of what years of rampant infrastructure development in an ecologically sensitive region coupled with climate change can do to a place and its people. Can Joshimath be saved?

Inside South Asia | India's sinking town: A cautionary tale

India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise:&nbsp;The world's longest river cruise, the MV Ganga Vilas, was launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference.&nbsp;The first cruise ship ever built in India, the MV Ganga Vilas, will set sail from the holy town of Varanasi with 32 Swiss tourists on board and travel via Bangladesh to Dibrugarh in Assam.&nbsp;Addressing the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said: “The beginning of the world’s longest river cruise service on river Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India.”

“I want to tell passengers onboard the river cruise liner MV Ganga Vilas that India has everything you can imagine. It also has a lot beyond your imagination. India can’t be defined in words. India can only be experienced from the heart because India has opened her heart to everyone,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;

An Antara Luxury River Cruises ship, the Ganga Vilas Cruise will depart from Varanasi and travel 3,200 kilometres in total. Before laying its final anchor in Bogibeel in Dibrugarh, the ship will sail through Kolkata and Dhaka.

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Beginning of cruise service on River Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India. <a href="https://t.co/NOVFLFrroE">https://t.co/NOVFLFrroE</a>
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Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, stated earlier on Thursday that Varanasi will embark on a new era with the launch of the Ganga Vilas river cruise.&nbsp;"Along with being the biggest centre of education and health, Kashi is now ready to be connected by land as well as waterways. The journey of 52 days covering a distance of 3,200 km is starting from here," he said.

We take a deep dive into the special features of this ship and what this voyage would mean for travel enthusiasts.&nbsp;

<h2>Features of MV Ganga Vilas</h2>

The MV Ganga Vilas ship has a 62-metre length, a 12-metre breadth, and a 1.4-metre depth that allows it to sail comfortably. It embodies luxury to the fullest. The ship is designed in a mid-century modern style and contains 18 suites with indigenous&nbsp;furniture and fixtures, some of which are also created along the Ganga.

The inside of the ship is painted in bold hues of magenta, blue and yellow&nbsp;that go&nbsp;well with the rich cultures of the places the cruise will travel.&nbsp;

The cruise's director, Raj Singh told&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;that the&nbsp;cruise has facilities such as spa, salon, and gym and&nbsp;will cost&nbsp;₹&nbsp;25,000 to&nbsp;₹&nbsp;50,000 a day, with the total cost for the 51-day journey totalling to around&nbsp;₹20 lakhs for each passenger. The cruise is equipped with a pollution-free system and noise control technology, he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ganga-vilas-cruise-ticket-check-longest-river-cruise-route-ticket-price-step-by-step-guide-to-book-online-552211">Ganga Vilas Cruise Ticket: Check longest river cruise route, ticket price, step-by-step guide to book online</a>

The massive floor-to-ceiling windows onboard will let passengers can take in the grandeur of the river throughout the day, according to CNN Traveller. Travellers' experiences will be improved by a dining room, an observation pavilion, and a panoramic lounge.

Along with the aforementioned amenities that characterise the ship's luxury, Ganga Vilas Cruise also includes an open sundeck where guests may sit and a spa where they can unwind while travelling.&nbsp;Additionally, passengers will be able to enjoy mouthwatering cuisine that draws inspiration from the various locations the ship visits.

<h2>Journey of MV Ganga Vilas</h2>

The 51-day voyage will commence in Varanasi, and after travelling via Ghazipur, Buxar, and Ramnagar, the cruise ship will arrive in Patna on the eighth day.

In order to go to Bogibeel in Dibrugarh, passengers will spend 15 days in the neighbouring nation of Bangladesh before re-entering&nbsp;India.

The Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, which has previously opened up commerce and transit lines between the two neighbouring nations, will allow the ship to go over 1,100 kilometres across Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-mv-ganga-vilas-worlds-longest-river-cruise-flagged-off-in-varanasi-552254">In Pics | MV Ganga Vilas, world's longest river cruise, flagged off in Varanasi&nbsp;</a>

"The journey will give the foreign tourists an opportunity to embark upon an experiential voyage and indulge in the art, culture, history, and spirituality of India and Bangladesh," Union Minister for Port Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal told news agency ANI.

"The tourists also come with different mindsets — some want to stay for the full journey while some may move from one point to another. The service will facilitate all kinds of tourists. Moreover, with the amendment to Indian Vessel Act, cruise lines would have a national permit to move seamlessly across states,” he added.&nbsp;

It will make 50 stops along the way, including places like national parks, river ghats, and sites that are considered to world heritage sites.

<h2>MV Ganga Vilas: An experience in itself</h2>

As per Raj Singh, travel enthusiasts who are interested in seeing different cultures will appreciate the trip's opportunity to do so.

“Each experience has been personally vetted and designed by me for fellow enthusiastic travellers. The historical route has been finalised with the support, assistance and cooperation of the governments of India and Bangladesh, which are working together to ensure seamless travel between the two countries,” he added.

The iconic and widely regarded "Ganga Aarti" on the banks of the river Ganga is one of the tour's highlights. History buffs will get the opportunity to study about the effects of French and Dutch influences on West Bengal's architecture during the tour.

Passengers on board will learn about making handcrafted textiles and brassware in the West Bengal hamlet of Matiari. The boat will also make stops for celebrations featuring folk music and dances in a few different places.

Also watch |&nbsp;'A Landmark Moment', says PM Modi as he flags off world's longest river cruise

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Travel aficionados have the ideal chance on this trip to experience the varied cultures of the many destinations visited.

One of the numerous stops on the journey is Bagerhat, where visitors may see the 60-dome mosque constructed by Khan Jahan Ali during the Bengal sultanate era.

<h2>Other cruises in India</h2>

There are other cruise ships that go through Indian rivers besides the Ganga Vilas Cruise.

The 10-night Brahmaputra river Cruise sails from Guwahati to Jorhat-Dibrugarh. The former Ahom rulers' domain, Sibsagar, Majuli island, and Kaziranga National Park are all visited by this cruise. The itinerary also includes heritage trips in the renowned silk-weaving villages of Tezpur and Sualkuchi.

The Mandovi River Cruise in Western India allows visitors to explore the Goan culture. The cruise ship provides a thrilling ambience complete with folk&nbsp;songs, dances, and cuisine as guests travel past Chorao and Divar Islands, according to Times Travel,&nbsp;even if the journey only lasts a few hours.

The Mangalore River Cruise in southern India&nbsp;lets visitors unwind in the tranquil Phalguni River. The three-hour boat passes through Karnataka's coastal villages with its tourists. The Mangalorean food provided onboard, however, is the highlight of the cruise excursion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise: The world's longest river cruise, the MV Ganga Vilas, was launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference.

India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise: The world's longest river cruise, the MV Ganga Vilas, was launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference. The first cruise ship ever built in India, the MV Ganga Vilas, will set sail from the holy town of Varanasi with 32 Swiss tourists on board and travel via Bangladesh to Dibrugarh in Assam. Addressing the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said: “The beginning of the world’s longest river cruise service on river Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India.” “I want to tell passengers onboard the river cruise liner MV Ganga Vilas that India has everything you can imagine. It also has a lot beyond your imagination. India can’t be defined in words. India can only be experienced from the heart because India has opened her heart to everyone," he added. An Antara Luxury River Cruises ship, the Ganga Vilas Cruise will depart from Varanasi and travel 3,200 kilometres in total. Before laying its final anchor in Bogibeel in Dibrugarh, the ship will sail through Kolkata and Dhaka. Beginning of cruise service on River Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India. https://t.co/NOVFLFrroE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2023 × Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, stated earlier on Thursday that Varanasi will embark on a new era with the launch of the Ganga Vilas river cruise. "Along with being the biggest centre of education and health, Kashi is now ready to be connected by land as well as waterways. The journey of 52 days covering a distance of 3,200 km is starting from here," he said. We take a deep dive into the special features of this ship and what this voyage would mean for travel enthusiasts. Features of MV Ganga Vilas The MV Ganga Vilas ship has a 62-metre length, a 12-metre breadth, and a 1.4-metre depth that allows it to sail comfortably. It embodies luxury to the fullest. The ship is designed in a mid-century modern style and contains 18 suites with indigenous furniture and fixtures, some of which are also created along the Ganga. The inside of the ship is painted in bold hues of magenta, blue and yellow that go well with the rich cultures of the places the cruise will travel. The cruise's director, Raj Singh told PTI that the cruise has facilities such as spa, salon, and gym and will cost ₹ 25,000 to ₹ 50,000 a day, with the total cost for the 51-day journey totalling to around ₹20 lakhs for each passenger. The cruise is equipped with a pollution-free system and noise control technology, he added. Also read | Ganga Vilas Cruise Ticket: Check longest river cruise route, ticket price, step-by-step guide to book online The massive floor-to-ceiling windows onboard will let passengers can take in the grandeur of the river throughout the day, according to CNN Traveller. Travellers' experiences will be improved by a dining room, an observation pavilion, and a panoramic lounge. Along with the aforementioned amenities that characterise the ship's luxury, Ganga Vilas Cruise also includes an open sundeck where guests may sit and a spa where they can unwind while travelling. Additionally, passengers will be able to enjoy mouthwatering cuisine that draws inspiration from the various locations the ship visits. Journey of MV Ganga Vilas The 51-day voyage will commence in Varanasi, and after travelling via Ghazipur, Buxar, and Ramnagar, the cruise ship will arrive in Patna on the eighth day. In order to go to Bogibeel in Dibrugarh, passengers will spend 15 days in the neighbouring nation of Bangladesh before re-entering India. The Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, which has previously opened up commerce and transit lines between the two neighbouring nations, will allow the ship to go over 1,100 kilometres across Bangladesh. Also read | In Pics | MV Ganga Vilas, world's longest river cruise, flagged off in Varanasi "The journey will give the foreign tourists an opportunity to embark upon an experiential voyage and indulge in the art, culture, history, and spirituality of India and Bangladesh," Union Minister for Port Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal told news agency ANI. "The tourists also come with different mindsets — some want to stay for the full journey while some may move from one point to another. The service will facilitate all kinds of tourists. Moreover, with the amendment to Indian Vessel Act, cruise lines would have a national permit to move seamlessly across states,” he added. It will make 50 stops along the way, including places like national parks, river ghats, and sites that are considered to world heritage sites. MV Ganga Vilas: An experience in itself As per Raj Singh, travel enthusiasts who are interested in seeing different cultures will appreciate the trip's opportunity to do so. “Each experience has been personally vetted and designed by me for fellow enthusiastic travellers. The historical route has been finalised with the support, assistance and cooperation of the governments of India and Bangladesh, which are working together to ensure seamless travel between the two countries,” he added. The iconic and widely regarded "Ganga Aarti" on the banks of the river Ganga is one of the tour's highlights. History buffs will get the opportunity to study about the effects of French and Dutch influences on West Bengal's architecture during the tour. Passengers on board will learn about making handcrafted textiles and brassware in the West Bengal hamlet of Matiari. The boat will also make stops for celebrations featuring folk music and dances in a few different places. Also watch | 'A Landmark Moment', says PM Modi as he flags off world's longest river cruise Travel aficionados have the ideal chance on this trip to experience the varied cultures of the many destinations visited. One of the numerous stops on the journey is Bagerhat, where visitors may see the 60-dome mosque constructed by Khan Jahan Ali during the Bengal sultanate era. Other cruises in India There are other cruise ships that go through Indian rivers besides the Ganga Vilas Cruise. The 10-night Brahmaputra river Cruise sails from Guwahati to Jorhat-Dibrugarh. The former Ahom rulers' domain, Sibsagar, Majuli island, and Kaziranga National Park are all visited by this cruise. The itinerary also includes heritage trips in the renowned silk-weaving villages of Tezpur and Sualkuchi. The Mandovi River Cruise in Western India allows visitors to explore the Goan culture. The cruise ship provides a thrilling ambience complete with folk songs, dances, and cuisine as guests travel past Chorao and Divar Islands, according to Times Travel, even if the journey only lasts a few hours. The Mangalore River Cruise in southern India lets visitors unwind in the tranquil Phalguni River. The three-hour boat passes through Karnataka's coastal villages with its tourists. The Mangalorean food provided onboard, however, is the highlight of the cruise excursion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise: What would the world's longest river cruise mean for travel enthusiasts?

Amazon India has announced that it will be laying off around 1,000 of its employees. This news comes as Amazon India continues to grow at a rapid pace, with the company investing heavily in its operations in the country.

Amazon begins layoffs in India, informs impacted employees over email

India began demolishing unsafe buildings in a northern Himalayan town where hundreds of structures have developed cracks following an apparent sinking of land.

WION Climate Tracker: Demolition begins in India's sinking town Joshimath

Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports.

While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay.

Amazon plans to cut about 1 per cent of employees in India as part of its larger layoffs accounting for about 6 per cent of its workforce worldwide, totalling 18,000 jobs.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-amazon-to-restructure-warehouse-operations-closures-put-over-1000-jobs-at-risk-551220">UK: Amazon to restructure warehouse operations, closures put over 1,000 jobs at risk</a>

The employees in India were informed of their layoff by email and were asked to meet the leadership group for more clarity on the situation on a specific date.

Many employees laid off by Amazon in India took to social media sites, like LinkedIn and Twitter, looking for new opportunities.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring

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The layoffs were across cities in India, including new hires and experienced employees, with loss-making teams the most affected.

A separate Reuters report last week showed surging job cuts would make 2023 a challenging year for workforce diversity globally.

In recent years, big global firms stepped up hiring and prioritised diversity, equity and inclusion. But deep cost cuts, including layoffs, are risking corporate diversity pledges globally, which took years to take shape.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports. While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay.

Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports. While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay. Amazon plans to cut about 1 per cent of employees in India as part of its larger layoffs accounting for about 6 per cent of its workforce worldwide, totalling 18,000 jobs. ALSO READ| UK: Amazon to restructure warehouse operations, closures put over 1,000 jobs at risk The employees in India were informed of their layoff by email and were asked to meet the leadership group for more clarity on the situation on a specific date. Many employees laid off by Amazon in India took to social media sites, like LinkedIn and Twitter, looking for new opportunities. WATCH| WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring The layoffs were across cities in India, including new hires and experienced employees, with loss-making teams the most affected. A separate Reuters report last week showed surging job cuts would make 2023 a challenging year for workforce diversity globally. In recent years, big global firms stepped up hiring and prioritised diversity, equity and inclusion. But deep cost cuts, including layoffs, are risking corporate diversity pledges globally, which took years to take shape. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon begins job cuts in India, promises to pay 5-month severance

Pakistan is grappling with a major economic crisis. Amid this, protests have rocked PoK, as residents of Gilgit Baltistan demand a reunion with Kashmir. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Gilgit Baltistan demands reunion with India

A Mall road may be found in every hill town in India, whether it be Manali, Shimla, or Nainital. But we never considered the origin of the name "Mall Road" for these hip gathering spots.&nbsp;

The term "mall" refers to a lengthy, covered "walk" or "promenade" and dates back to the 17th century.

Since the 18th century, malls or "Mall Roads" have existed in India and have been linked to the British. The majority of hill towns and cities had a "Mall Road" where all the important stores and eateries were situated.&nbsp;

Awnings that covered the pavement once provided shade from the sun and rain for the stores. One of the main things that people did in the evenings was to stroll down this street.

After Independence, many "Mall Roads" in cities—hill stations appear to have evaded that—were renamed in honour of well-known people, most frequently Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

In the past 20 years, "Shopping Malls" have begun to displace the traditional "Mall Roads" as people's preferred location for covered spaces for strolling and window shopping.&nbsp;

However, these hill towns continue to go by this outdated moniker, which still makes us think of the time when Britain governed India.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

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A Mall road may be found in every hill town in India, whether it be Manali, Shimla, or Nainital. But we never considered the origin of the name "Mall Road" for these hip gathering spots.

A Mall road may be found in every hill town in India, whether it be Manali, Shimla, or Nainital. But we never considered the origin of the name "Mall Road" for these hip gathering spots. The term "mall" refers to a lengthy, covered "walk" or "promenade" and dates back to the 17th century. Since the 18th century, malls or "Mall Roads" have existed in India and have been linked to the British. The majority of hill towns and cities had a "Mall Road" where all the important stores and eateries were situated. Awnings that covered the pavement once provided shade from the sun and rain for the stores. One of the main things that people did in the evenings was to stroll down this street. After Independence, many "Mall Roads" in cities—hill stations appear to have evaded that—were renamed in honour of well-known people, most frequently Mahatma Gandhi. In the past 20 years, "Shopping Malls" have begun to displace the traditional "Mall Roads" as people's preferred location for covered spaces for strolling and window shopping. However, these hill towns continue to go by this outdated moniker, which still makes us think of the time when Britain governed India. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

History and significance of 'mall roads' in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off the world's longest river cruise MV Ganga Vilas today via video conferencing. He also inaugurated the Varanasi Tent City.

Indian PM flags off world's longest river cruise 'MV Ganga Vilas'

'A Landmark Moment', says PM Modi as he flags off world's longest river cruise

In India Tata group's ambitious mega app is expected to make now only half of its sales objectives in its first year. It is prompted now; one of India's biggest corporate groups to reconsider its approach towards e-commerce business

World Business Watch: Tata's super-app Neu expected to miss debut year sales target by 50%

India will host the two-day virtual ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ from today, January 12. The inaugural Leaders’ Session will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Indian Prime Minister addresses Voice of Global South Summit

The Hockey World Cup begins in India on Friday. The hosts will aim to end a 48-year-wait for the title. The Olympic Bronze medalists have improved significantly in recent times, but will face tough competition in Odisha. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Chief Coach Graham Reid and Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh ahead of India's opener against Spain.

WION Exclusive: Can India end 48-year wait for Hockey WC title?

In today's news hundreds of residents evacuate India's sinking town 'Joshimath', WHO says China 'heavily underreporting' Covid deaths, China launches gold and silver coins.

Trending on WION: Disney to roll back theme park prices as CEO Iger attempts to woo visitors back

During the annual presser ahead of the Army Day on January 15, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande stressed there is adequate deployment of troops at the LAC but termed the situation "unpredictable".

Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande briefs on India-China border

In his opening remarks at the Voice of Global South summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday the "world is in a state of crisis" and added that the developed countries were the drivers of the global economy and today, most of these advanced economies are slowing down.

PM Modi raises concerns on price rise, impact of Ukraine war at 'Voice of Global South' summit

India wins Original Song for 'Naatu Naatu' from RRR at the Golden Globes 2023. The film's song has been highly revered as people can't stop raving about the choreography, the fresh tunes and the overall happy theme of the song.

Gravitas Global Headlines | Golden Globes 2023: RRR takes home the trophy for 'Naatu Naatu'

Indian captain Rohit Sharma was not in favour of running out Sri Lankan batter Dasun Shanaka on the non-striker's end after his premier bowler Mohammed Shami did just the same in the first ODI in Guwahati on Tuesday.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma was not in favour of running out Sri Lankan batter Dasun Shanaka on the non-striker's end after his premier bowler Mohammed Shami did just the same in the first ODI in Guwahati on Tuesday. With the match's outcome all but decided, Shami steamed in to bowl the 50th over. However, on the fourth delivery of the over, Shami broke his stride and ran out the Sri Lankan skipper on the non-striker's end after he had strayed out of the crease. Shami clipped the bails and burst into a semi-celebration as the umpire sent the call upstairs to the third umpire. In the meantime, skipper Sharma rushed to Shami, trying to understand the situation. After figuring out what his bowler had done, Sharma went to the umpire and told him the Indian side was withdrawing the appeal. Shami took his captain's argument in a healthy way and also signalled the umpire to void the Indian appeal. Notably, Shanaka was on 98, two runs away from a deserving century when Shami ran him out. In the post-match presentation ceremony, Sharma shone light on the incident and said he had no idea that Shami inflicted the non-striker's runout. India Being India. @ImRo45 Did The Right Thing In The End. #Mankad #IndiaVsSriLanka @dasunshanaka1 Well Deserved 100. @OfficialSLC @BCCI #Cricket pic.twitter.com/Q1r24YMgdq — Shohan Bowala (@shohanb) January 10, 2023 × "I had no idea Shami did that. He went for the appeal. He (Shanaka) was batting on 98 and the way he was batting was brilliant. So, you've got to give it to him. We didn't want to get him out like that. We wanted to get him out the way we thought we'll get him out. Hats off to him. He batted really well." Read more: Ind vs SL 1st ODI: Men in Blue shine despite Shanaka's heroics Despite India carting the Sri Lankan bowlers for 373 runs in the quota of 50 overs, the bowlers could not finish the job completely as the visitors managed to cross the 300-run mark in the chase. Sharma reflected on the same and said the bowling upfront enabled India to avoid any late innings blues. "We started off really well with the bat. It was a great effort for all the batters. The platform was set to play freely for all the batters. We could have bowled slightly better. I don't want to be too critical about it. The dew was not that much but it was still difficult to bowl. We got wickets upfront with the ball which helped us with the momentum." India will now take on Sri Lanka in the second ODI match at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Thursday. Read more: IND vs SL: Virat Kohli moves past Sachin Tendulkar, breaks plethora of records during his 73rd ton in 1st ODI WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: Rohit Sharma forces Shami to withdraw appeal after running out Sri Lankan batter

An Indian town in the Himalayas has been dubbed India's sinking city. Unsustainable infrastructure projects among other factors have caused the ground beneath the town to sink.

WION Fineprint | Joshimath: The sinking Indian city

India and Switzerland are celebrating 75 years of friendship this year and the European country is looking to strengthen its bilateral ties with India in the fields of innovation and trade.

WION Dispatch: Swiss envoy to India speaks to WION

The Supreme Court have agreed to hear on January 16 a plea seeking the court’s intervention to declare the crisis in Uttarakhand’s Joshimath as a national disaster.

WION Dispatch | Joshimath crisis: SC agrees to hear plea on January 16

Dense fog and cold wave conditions are very likely to continue over north India. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Delhi-NCR region.

WION Climate Tracker: Delhi shivers with longest cold wave in a decade

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