At Cannes 2026, Ruchi Gujjar Turns Rajasthani Tradition Into a Statement on Women’s Rights

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May 20, 2026, 11:27 AM

In a world dominated by carefully scripted politicians and fragile coalition governments, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has emerged as one of the most unconventional and talked-about leaders of the modern era. From becoming Italy’s first-ever female Prime Minister to surviving the country’s notoriously unstable political system, Meloni has built a political identity that blends nationalism, charisma, tradition, and mass appeal. Her outspoken speeches, lively public image, and ability to connect with ordinary citizens have made her one of Europe’s most influential figures. Here are 10 facts that set Giorgia Meloni apart from other global leaders.

1. Italy’s First Female Prime Minister

In Italy’s 161-year electoral history, no woman had ever occupied the country’s top political office until Meloni broke the barrier and became Prime Minister.

2. One of the World’s Most Powerful Women

In 2024, Forbes ranked Meloni as the third most powerful woman in the world, placing her among the most influential global leaders.

3. The Only Woman at the Gaza Peace Summit

At the 2025 Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt attended by leaders from 30 major nations, Meloni was the sole female head of government present.

4. She Defied Italy’s “Government Collapse” Curse

Italy has witnessed 68 governments in 77 years, with administrations lasting an average of just 16 months. Meloni, however, crossed 1,300 days in office, becoming the country’s second longest-serving PM within a single term.

5. She Keeps Rival Allies United

Political experts credit Meloni for successfully balancing powerful coalition partners like Matteo Salvini while preventing internal political rebellions from destabilizing her government.

6. She Speaks Like an Ordinary Citizen

Unlike many European leaders known for formal speeches, Meloni communicates in a direct, emotional, and relatable style that resonates strongly with common voters.

7. Her “I Am Giorgia” Speech Became Iconic

Meloni’s 2019 declaration — “I am Giorgia, I am a woman, I am a mother, I am a Christian” — became one of the defining political slogans of modern Italy.

8. She Rejects the Feminist Label

Despite becoming Italy’s first female PM, Meloni does not describe herself as a feminist and openly opposes “pink quota” reservations for women in politics.

9. She Brought Folk Dance to Global Diplomacy

During the 2024 G7 Summit hosted by Italy, Meloni surprised world leaders by enthusiastically performing the traditional Italian folk dance “Pizzica,” earning widespread praise online.

10. Her Viral Personality Keeps Her in Headlines

Whether joking with world leaders, sharing spontaneous reactions, or engaging warmly with supporters, Meloni’s candid moments frequently go viral on social media, making her one of the most recognizable political personalities in Europe.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Know Other Records of This Boy Who Created IPL History with 93-Run Blitz and 53rd Six

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May 20, 2026, 8:29 AM

Rajasthan Royals’ teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continued his extraordinary Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign with a blistering 93 off just 38 balls against Lucknow Super Giants in Jaipur on Tuesday, rewriting multiple records during RR’s successful chase of 221.

The young opener smashed 10 sixes and seven boundaries in another explosive innings, guiding Rajasthan Royals to a convincing seven-wicket victory and helping the franchise climb to fourth place in the points table with 14 points.

Youngest Player to Reach 500 IPL Runs

Sooryavanshi became the youngest player in IPL history to score 500 runs in a single season, surpassing the previous record held by Rishabh Pant, who achieved the feat at the age of 20 while representing Delhi Daredevils in 2018.

Highest Strike Rate in IPL History for 500+ Run Season

The RR batter also registered the highest strike rate ever recorded in an IPL season by a player scoring 500 or more runs. Sooryavanshi currently boasts a staggering strike rate of 236.3 in IPL 2026.

He moved ahead of:

Andre Russell — 204.8 in 2019
Abhishek Sharma — 202.0 in 2026
Nicholas Pooran — 196.2 in 2025
Travis Head — 191.5 in 2024
Glenn Maxwell — 187.7 in 2014
Chris Gayle — 183.1 in 2011

First Indian Batter to Smash 50 Sixes in an IPL Season

During the innings, Sooryavanshi also became the first Indian batter to hit 50 sixes in a single IPL edition. He now has 53 sixes in IPL 2026.

Only Chris Gayle has hit more sixes in a season, with 59 in 2012.

Most Sixes in an IPL Season

Chris Gayle — 59 (2012)
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi — 53* (2026)
Andre Russell — 52 (2019)
Chris Gayle — 51 (2013)
Jos Buttler — 45 (2022)
Chris Gayle — 44 (2011)
Abhishek Sharma — 42 (2024)

Rare Six-Hitting Milestone

Sooryavanshi also became only the third batter in IPL history after Chris Gayle and Abhishek Sharma to smash 10 or more sixes in an innings on multiple occasions.

He is also only the second batter after Finn Allen this season to record two innings featuring 10-plus sixes in a single IPL campaign.

RR Create Powerplay Sixes Record

According to CricViz data, Rajasthan Royals have now registered the highest number of powerplay sixes in a single IPL season, smashing 60 sixes during the first six overs in IPL 2026.

Sooryavanshi alone accounts for 37 of those sixes, while Yashasvi Jaiswal has contributed 12. The remaining RR batters combined for 11.

The previous record belonged to Sunrisers Hyderabad, who hit 59 powerplay sixes in 2024.

How the Match Unfolded

Earlier in the match, Lucknow Super Giants posted a formidable 220/5 after being put in to bat first. Josh Inglis scored 60, while Mitchell Marsh blasted 96 off 57 balls as LSG raced to 83/0 in the powerplay.

Captain Rishabh Pant also chipped in with a late cameo before both he and Marsh were run out in the final over.

For Rajasthan Royals, Yash Raj Punja picked up 2/35, while Jofra Archer claimed one wicket.

In reply, Sooryavanshi’s explosive knock and Dhruv Jurel’s rapid 53 powered RR to a memorable chase and another crucial win in IPL 2026.

Thailand Cuts Visa-Free Stay Period for More Than 90 Countries Including UK

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May 20, 2026, 8:18 AM

Thailand is tightening its visa-free entry rules, with UK travellers and visitors from dozens of other countries soon needing a visa for stays longer than 30 days.

Since July 2024, tourists from 93 countries — including the UK, Australia, India, the US and much of Europe — have been allowed to stay visa-free for up to 60 days to help revive tourism after the pandemic.

But Thai authorities have now approved plans to scale the exemption back, citing security concerns and confusion around overlapping visa schemes. Under the revised system, visa-free stay limits will vary by country, though many travellers will now be capped at 30 days without a visa.

The new rules will take effect 15 days after they are officially published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette.

Thailand remains one of Asia’s most popular holiday destinations, welcoming nearly 12 million visitors so far this year.

Haji Syed Salman Chishty Brings 800 Years of Sufi Wisdom to Canada Literature Festival 2026

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May 19, 2026, 9:33 PM

Haji Syed Salman Chishty, the 26th-generation Gaddi Nashin of the revered Dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty (R.A.) in Ajmer Sharif, India, and Chairman of the Chishty Foundation, made a significant appearance at the Canada Literature Festival (CLF) 2026, held from May 13 to May 18 across Mississauga and Toronto, Ontario.

Haji Syed Salman Chishty Brings 800 Years of Sufi Wisdom to Canada Literature Festival 2026

Through a series of interfaith discussions, the Canadian release of the acclaimed book “Seeking the Infinite” by Yakub Mathew, and a special evening dedicated to Sufi poetry and spiritual dialogue, Haji Syed Salman Chishty brought India’s centuries-old Sufi legacy to a global audience while reinforcing the shared values of peace, unity, and interfaith harmony.

The events were attended by H.E. Dinesh K. Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada, and Mahaveer Singhvi, Consul General of India in Toronto, highlighting the growing role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening India-Canada relations.

A major highlight of the festival was the Canadian launch of “Seeking the Infinite: Maha Kumbh 2025”, a multi-faith coffee-table book authored by Yakub Mathew and featuring contributions from more than 50 global thought leaders. The accompanying panel discussion focused on interfaith dialogue, spiritual unity, and humanity’s universal search for meaning before a distinguished gathering of members of the Indian diaspora and international guests in Toronto.

Haji Syed Salman Chishty participated as a featured speaker at the interfaith session titled “A Confluence of Faiths: Seeking the Infinite” held at the Apollo Convention Centre in Mississauga. The session also featured Yakub Mathew, Lama Aria Drolma, Rakesh Kaul, and Harry Mann, with noted Cambridge University scholar Prof. Prabhu Guptara moderating the discussion.

At another key CLF 2026 venue, the prestigious Noel Ryan Theatre in Mississauga, Haji Syed Salman Chishty presented an evening of timeless Sufi poetry and spiritual reflections, offering Canadian audiences a direct experience of the living traditions of the Chishty Sufi Order and its mystical teachings.

Speaking at the event, Haji Syed Salman Chishty said, “The Chishty Sufi tradition has taught for 800 years that unconditional love and service towards creation is the path leading humanity towards the Creator. From the blessed Dargah of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz in Ajmer Sharif to the shores of Lake Ontario, the message remains the same — ‘Love Towards All, Malice Towards None.’”

Author Yakub Mathew remarked, “The Infinite is not a place to reach, but a truth to remember — that within every individual lies a horizon without end. This gathering in Toronto proves that the quest for the Infinite transcends every border.”

H.E. Dinesh K. Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada, stated that platforms such as the Canada Literature Festival demonstrate how interfaith peace and harmony can strengthen bilateral relations. He noted that India’s spiritual and cultural traditions reflect the shared values of pluralism and mutual respect cherished by both India and Canada.

Mahaveer Singhvi, Consul General of India in Toronto, said that interfaith dialogue and spiritual harmony serve as vital pillars of people-to-people diplomacy. He added that the unity witnessed during CLF 2026 reflected the essence of what India-Canada relations aspire to achieve.

Ajaay Modi, Organiser of Canada Literature Festival 2026, said the festival was created to celebrate dialogue and knowledge beyond barriers of race, religion, language, and culture. He noted that CLF 2026 reaffirmed how literature and cultural exchange can become powerful instruments for interfaith peace and global understanding.

World Metrology Day 2026: Why the Science of Measurement Matters More Than Ever

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May 19, 2026, 6:43 PM

World Metrology Day is observed every year on May 20 to commemorate the signing of the historic Metre Convention in Paris in 1875 by representatives of 17 nations. The agreement laid the foundation for a globally unified system of measurement, ensuring consistency and accuracy in science, trade, industry and daily life.

The theme for World Metrology Day 2026 is “Metrology: Building Trust in Policy Making.” The theme highlights the crucial role accurate and reliable measurements play in helping governments and institutions make informed, transparent and evidence-based decisions.

Metrology, often referred to as the science of measurement, may appear technical, but it affects almost every aspect of modern life. From fuel pumps and electricity meters to healthcare diagnostics, food safety, climate monitoring and industrial manufacturing, accurate measurements ensure fairness, safety and trust. Experts note that without standardized measurements, global trade, scientific research and technological innovation would face major challenges.

The 2026 theme particularly focuses on the connection between metrology and policymaking. Scientific and legal metrology together help policymakers create regulations based on reliable data and internationally accepted standards. This becomes especially important in sectors such as environmental monitoring, public health, renewable energy, transport safety and consumer protection.

According to the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) and the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML), national metrology institutes across the world continuously work to improve measurement techniques and maintain global consistency in standards. Their work supports industries, laboratories, governments and markets worldwide.

To mark World Metrology Day 2026, several countries and scientific organizations are organizing conferences, workshops and webinars focusing on measurement science and public policy. UNESCO, in collaboration with the BIPM, is hosting a special international webinar discussing how accurate measurements support evidence-based governance and public trust.

Events in countries including South Africa, Spain, New Zealand and Bulgaria are also highlighting the importance of metrology in energy systems, climate action, industrial compliance and emerging technologies.

In an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, digital systems, climate change and technological transformation, the importance of trusted measurements has become even greater. World Metrology Day 2026 serves as a reminder that behind every scientific breakthrough, fair transaction and public policy decision lies one essential foundation — accurate measurement.

PM Modi’s Norway Visit Strengthens India-Nordic Partnership in Green Energy, Technology and Global Cooperation

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May 19, 2026, 6:36 PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway marked a major milestone in India’s growing engagement with the Nordic region, with both countries elevating bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in green energy, maritime industries, space technology, research, trade and sustainable development. The Oslo visit, part of PM Modi’s ongoing five-nation diplomatic tour, also carried historic significance as it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Norway in over four decades.

During the visit, PM Modi held extensive talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and met King Harald V and Queen Sonja at the Royal Palace in Oslo. The discussions focused on strengthening economic cooperation, technological partnerships and strategic collaboration amid shifting global geopolitical and energy dynamics.

One of the biggest highlights of the visit was the decision by India and Norway to elevate their relationship into a “Green Strategic Partnership.” The two countries announced cooperation across renewable energy, climate action, green shipping, fisheries, carbon capture, Arctic research and clean technologies. Agreements were also signed in areas such as outer space cooperation, health research and emerging technologies.

At the India-Norway Business and Research Summit in Oslo, PM Modi interacted with leading Norwegian business leaders, investors and researchers. He highlighted India’s rapid economic transformation, expanding digital infrastructure and manufacturing growth, while inviting Norwegian companies to increase investments in India. Major Norwegian firms from sectors such as energy, shipping, healthcare technology and sustainability participated in the summit.

Addressing the business community, PM Modi emphasized that “there is no better time than now” to invest in India, pointing to the country’s growing market, policy reforms and infrastructure expansion. Norway’s sovereign wealth fund — one of the world’s largest investment funds — is expected to play a greater role in India’s infrastructure and green energy sectors in the future.

A major symbolic moment during the visit came when PM Modi was conferred Norway’s highest civilian honour — the “Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit.” The award, presented in recognition of his efforts to strengthen India-Norway ties and promote global cooperation, became the 32nd international honour conferred upon him by a foreign nation.

The visit also included the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo, where PM Modi met leaders from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Discussions focused on clean energy, innovation, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, maritime cooperation and resilient supply chains. India’s outreach to Nordic countries is increasingly seen as strategically important because these nations are global leaders in sustainability, advanced technologies and green innovation.

On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi also held bilateral meetings with the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Talks with Iceland focused on fisheries, geothermal energy, sustainability and the blue economy, while discussions with Denmark and Finland centred around green partnerships, digital technologies and innovation cooperation. Geopolitical issues also featured prominently during the Norway visit. PM Modi reiterated India’s position that conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre acknowledged India’s energy needs and emphasized the importance of cooperation among countries committed to a rules-based international order.

Overall, PM Modi’s Norway visit significantly strengthened India’s ties with the Nordic region and reinforced India’s growing role as a major global partner in green transition, technology, trade and sustainable development.

PM Modi Conferred Norway’s Highest Civilian Honour, Receives 32nd Global Recognition

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May 19, 2026, 4:36 PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Norway’s highest civilian honour — the “Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit” — during his official visit to Oslo, marking another significant milestone in India’s growing diplomatic stature on the global stage. The honour was presented by King Harald V of Norway in recognition of PM Modi’s contribution to strengthening India-Norway relations and his global leadership.

The award is the highest grade under the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit and is bestowed upon foreign Heads of Government and distinguished international personalities for exceptional service in advancing Norway’s interests and promoting international cooperation. With this recognition, PM Modi has now received 32 international honours from countries across the world.

The honour came during PM Modi’s landmark visit to Norway — the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the Nordic nation in over four decades. During the visit, Modi held bilateral talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and met King Harald V and Queen Sonja at the Royal Palace in Oslo.

Expressing gratitude after receiving the award, PM Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the enduring friendship between India and Norway. In a message posted on social media, he said the recognition reflected the “shared commitment to global progress” between the two nations.

The visit focused heavily on expanding cooperation in trade, clean energy, maritime industries, green technologies, research and investment. PM Modi and his Norwegian counterpart jointly inaugurated the India-Norway Business and Research Summit, where discussions centred on boosting bilateral trade and strengthening technological collaboration. Norway also announced a massive investment framework reportedly worth nearly USD 100 billion aimed at supporting India’s infrastructure, technology and sustainable energy sectors.

Both leaders also discussed the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, with India seeking stronger investment ties with Norway’s sovereign wealth fund — one of the world’s largest investment funds. Bilateral trade between India and Norway stood at approximately USD 2.73 billion in 2024, and both countries expressed optimism about significantly expanding economic engagement in the coming years.

Strategic and geopolitical issues also featured prominently during the discussions. PM Modi thanked Norway for standing with India against terrorism and reiterated India’s position that global conflicts, including those in Ukraine and West Asia, must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than military confrontation.

Notably, the Norwegian honour came just a day after PM Modi received Sweden’s prestigious “Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross,” making it the second top civilian recognition awarded to him during his ongoing Europe tour. Analysts view the back-to-back honours from Nordic nations as a reflection of India’s increasing strategic relevance and strengthening ties with Europe in areas such as clean energy, technology, innovation and global governance.

India Gets Its First Alzheimer’s Disease-Modifying Therapy: What the Launch of Lormalzi Means

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May 19, 2026, 1:47 PM

India has entered a new chapter in neurological healthcare with the launch of Lormalzi, the country’s first approved amyloid-targeting therapy for Alzheimer’s disease. Developed by Eli Lilly, the drug — scientifically known as donanemab — offers new hope for patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s by aiming to slow the progression of the disease rather than merely manage symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, behaviour and daily functioning. Traditionally, treatments available in India have focused largely on symptomatic relief, helping patients temporarily manage memory loss or behavioural changes. Lormalzi, however, belongs to a newer generation of therapies designed to target amyloid plaques — abnormal protein deposits in the brain that are considered one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

The drug has been approved in India for patients with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, specifically those with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s and confirmed amyloid pathology. Doctors stress that the treatment is not suitable for advanced-stage dementia or normal age-related forgetfulness. Patients typically require specialised neurological evaluations, MRI scans and biomarker testing before beginning therapy.

Lormalzi is administered through a once-monthly intravenous infusion and has been priced at approximately ₹91,688 per 350 mg vial in India. Treatment generally continues for around 18 months. While the drug represents a scientific breakthrough, experts note that the high cost could make access difficult for many patients.

Neurologists describe the launch as significant because it reflects a shift toward “disease-modifying” Alzheimer’s therapies. Clinical studies suggest donanemab may help slow cognitive and functional decline in carefully selected patients when introduced early. However, the treatment is not considered a cure. It does not reverse existing brain damage or restore lost memories completely.

The therapy has also generated debate within the scientific community. Some researchers have questioned whether reducing amyloid plaques directly translates into substantial long-term cognitive improvement. Others point to concerns about side effects such as brain swelling and small brain bleeds, known as ARIA (Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities), which require careful MRI monitoring during treatment.

Still, many experts believe the arrival of donanemab in India is an important step forward, especially as the country faces a rapidly growing dementia burden due to an ageing population. The launch is expected to encourage earlier diagnosis, improved neurological screening and greater awareness around Alzheimer’s disease — a condition often overlooked or mistaken as normal ageing in India.

Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha Marks 75 Years with New Emblem Celebrating Heritage and Democracy

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May 19, 2026, 11:22 AM