The controversy surrounding “Veera Raja Veera”, a song from the Tamil film Ponniyin Selvan II, has sparked a major debate over inspiration, originality, and cultural ownership in Indian classical music.
Legendary composer A. R. Rahman recently agreed before the Supreme Court of India to publicly credit the Junior Dagar Brothers for their influence on the composition, following a court directive. The apex court ordered that updated credits be added across all music platforms, OTT services, and social media within five weeks, even as the larger copyright dispute continues.
The case was filed by Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar, heir to the renowned Dagar lineage, who alleged that the song borrowed key elements from the traditional Dhrupad piece Shiv Stuti, including melodic patterns, rhythmic structure, and musical expression rooted in the Dagarvani tradition.
Rahman’s legal team has maintained that the song is an original composition inspired by classical traditions and that no individual or family can claim exclusive ownership over shared cultural heritage. The Supreme Court’s order to credit the Dagar Brothers does not determine copyright infringement, and the main lawsuit remains pending. The controversy has reignited discussions on intellectual property rights in classical music, the ethics of artistic inspiration, and the recognition of traditional artists in contemporary compositions, making it one of the most significant cultural and legal debates in India’s music industry in recent years.
A 475-year-old cathedral in Vasai, Maharashtra, has earned international recognition for its remarkable restoration driven by local community participation. The Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Papdy village has received the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, announced in Bangkok.
The recognition celebrates the revival of a rare sixteenth-century Portuguese-era monument through traditional craftsmanship, sustainable conservation methods, and grassroots funding—making it a landmark example of people-powered heritage preservation in India.
Reviving a Portuguese-Era Heritage Landmark in Maharashtra
Built during Portuguese rule, the Our Lady of Grace Cathedral is a significant symbol of the spread of Catholicism along India’s western coast. Unlike modern buildings, the cathedral was constructed without cement or bricks, relying on mud-based stone construction techniques typical of the 16th century.
Over centuries, harsh monsoon weather, ageing materials, and unscientific repairs weakened key structural elements, including the roof, bell tower, façade, corridors, and colonnades. The deterioration threatened both the architectural integrity and the cathedral’s role as a living place of worship.
Traditional Craftsmanship Meets Modern Conservation
The restoration project, costing approximately ₹4.5 crore, focused on stabilising the structure and reversing inappropriate past interventions. Conservation experts restored intricate liturgical carvings, architectural details, and structural components using traditional materials and techniques to maintain historical authenticity.
Led by conservation architect Ainsley Lewis, the project ensured that the cathedral retained its original character while remaining functional for religious services—an approach praised by heritage experts worldwide.
Community-Funded Heritage Conservation Model
One of the most remarkable aspects of the project was community participation and funding. Parish members and church authorities collectively financed the restoration through sustained donations, showcasing a powerful model of stakeholder-driven heritage conservation.
UNESCO’s award jury highlighted the project’s “skilled use of traditional craftsmanship” and its success in reviving the cathedral as a living religious and cultural space. Out of 90 entries from 16 countries, the Vasai cathedral stood out for technical excellence, sustainability, and deep respect for local context.
Global Recognition in UNESCO’s Silver Jubilee Year
The 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards marked the silver jubilee of the heritage conservation programme. While the top Award of Distinction went to projects in Japan and China, other recognised sites were located in Malaysia, Nepal, and Vanuatu.
The Vasai cathedral’s Award of Merit places India among leading nations in heritage preservation and highlights the country’s growing emphasis on community-driven conservation.
Why This Cathedral Matters: Key Facts for Students and Exams
The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards recognise excellence in heritage conservation projects across the region.
Portuguese colonial architecture significantly shaped India’s western coastal regions.
Vasai (Bassein) was a major Portuguese stronghold in the 16th century.
Community participation is a key criterion in UNESCO heritage recognition.
The Our Lady of Grace Cathedral is among India’s notable community-led conservation successes.
A Model for Future Heritage Preservation
The restoration of the Our Lady of Grace Cathedral demonstrates how local communities, traditional knowledge, and modern conservation practices can work together to protect historic monuments. As India strengthens its heritage preservation efforts, the Vasai project serves as a blueprint for sustainable and inclusive conservation worldwide.
As the United States marks major milestones in its journey toward 250 years of independence, few landmarks capture the nation’s democratic spirit like the White House. Yet, one fascinating fact often surprises people: George Washington, America’s first president, never lived in the White House—despite being its chief visionary and driving force behind its creation.
In the United States, 22 February marks the birth anniversary of George Washington, the first President of the United States. While it is officially observed as part of Presidents’ Day on the third Monday in February, many still acknowledge the specific date.
This feature explores Washington’s crucial role in shaping the iconic presidential residence and how his democratic ideals influenced its design and legacy.
George Washington and the Birth of the American Presidency
When George Washington took office in 1789, the United States was an untested experiment in democracy. There was no precedent for a president, no established federal bureaucracy, and no symbolic center of power.
Washington spent his first term defining the role of the executive branch and building the foundations of the federal government. Among his priorities was creating a permanent residence for the nation’s leader—one that reflected republican values rather than royal grandeur.
A Democratic Vision, Not a Palace
Washington was deeply concerned about how the presidency would be perceived. He wanted to avoid any resemblance to European monarchies, where lavish palaces symbolised absolute power.
To achieve this, Washington rejected overly grand architectural proposals, including those by a French architect, and instead selected James Hoban, an Irish-born architect living in South Carolina. Hoban’s design was elegant yet restrained, reflecting the ideals of a democratic republic rather than a monarchy.
Choosing the Location and Supervising Construction
By 1792, the cornerstone of what would become the White House was laid in Washington, D.C.—a site personally chosen by George Washington. He took a hands-on approach to the project, overseeing aspects of carpentry, brickwork, and stone masonry.
Historians often compare his involvement to how he managed his Mount Vernon estate—methodical, detail-oriented, and deeply invested in the outcome.
Why Washington Never Lived in the White House
Construction of the White House took nearly eight years. By the time it was ready for occupancy, Washington had already completed his presidency. John Adams, the second president of the United States, became the first resident of the unfinished executive mansion in 1800.
Since then, every U.S. president has lived in the White House, making it one of the most enduring symbols of American leadership.
How the White House Evolved Over Time
The White House has undergone major transformations over the centuries:
1814: British forces burned the building during the War of 1812; it was later rebuilt.
1817–1829: The South and North Porticos were added under Presidents James Monroe and Andrew Jackson.
1901–1902: President Theodore Roosevelt officially named it the “White House” and built the West Wing.
Early 1900s: President William Howard Taft introduced the first Oval Office.
Despite expansions and renovations, Washington’s original democratic vision remains central to its identity.
Celebrating global unity and leadership, World Thinking Day 2025 highlights the power of young minds to drive change. From its rich history to its modern significance, here’s everything you need to know about this inspiring movement shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Celebrating global unity and leadership, World Thinking Day 2026 highlights the power of young minds to drive change
On 22nd February every year, World Thinking Day is celebrated by millions of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts worldwide. The day aims at fostering global friendship, raising awareness about global issues, and empowering young girls to become strong leaders and change agents.
The theme for World Thinking Day 2026 is
Our Friendship
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The start of World Thinking Day dates back to 1926 when 4th International Conference of Girl Guide/ Girl Scouts was held in the United States. Delegates from different countries came together and recognised that there was need for a special day that could appreciate and support global guiding/scouting movement.
February 22nd was chosen because it is also Lord Robert Baden-Powell, who created scouting movement’s birthday, as well Olave Baden-Powell, who became its first Chief Guide globally.
SIGNIFICANCE AND PURPOSE
World Thinking Day plays an important role in promoting unity amongst people of different cultures. It has several purposes:
Encouraging global friendship: This day encourages girl guides from around the world to connect.
Addressing global issues: The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGS), each year, chooses a theme linked to an important global concern.https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/sites/indiatoday/banner/preferred-source-new.html?v=1.014
Raising funds: The event encourages financial contributions to support international projects that help empower girls all over the world.
Inspiring leadership: It motivates young women to take active roles in their communities and advocate for positive change.
WORLD THINKING DAY THEMES
Since 1932, World Thinking Day has featured annual themes focusing on various social, environmental, and economic challenges. Some recent themes include:
2021: Peacebuilding
2022: Our World, Our Equal Future
2023: Our World, Our Thriving Future
2024: Our World, Our Thriving Planet
Each theme aims at inspiring action and reflection amongst young members while addressing current global issues.
HOW WORLD THINKING DAY IS CELEBRATED
World Thinking Day celebrations occur around the globe with activities centred on education, advocacy, and community service. Common ways of observing the day include:
Fundraising and donations – Supporting girl empowerment initiatives in impoverished neighbourhoods
Educational workshops – Discussing global problems and possible solutions
Cultural exchange programmes – Encouraging interaction amongst members from different nations
Social media campaigns – Awareness spreading via hashtags and online movements
For years, World Thinking Day has made a great difference in the lives of millions of young girls as it has helped build leadership skills, enhance self-esteem, and promote consciousness about global issues.
These activities instil teamwork, compassion, and they advocate for others, which has far-reaching effects on their personal and professional development.
World thinking day is beyond celebration because it is a force that emphasises how powerful young women are when they want to make positive changes.
By participating every year in this event, Girl Guides and Girl Scouts re-affirm their dedication to global citizenry, leading and making the world a better place. As the movement expands, World Thinking Day will continue to serve as a guiding light for generations yet unborn full of optimism.
The former Indian cricket star, known as ‘Gabbar,’ tied knot with an Irish business executive and influencer Sophie Shine on Saturday in the Delhi-NCR region after pre-wedding haldi and sangeet festivities. They met years ago in Dubai, went public in 2025, and announced their engagement in January 2026. Fans shared warm congratulations, celebrating Dhawan’s new chapter following his 2024 retirement and divorce from his first wife, with whom he shares a son.
Rohit Sharma has arrived for Shikhar Dhawan's wedding. 😍
The highly anticipated teaser for Rocking Star Yash’s upcoming film Toxic has taken the internet by storm, amassing massive views within hours of its release on February 20, 2026. The Kannada version quickly rose to the top of international charts, highlighting Yash’s unparalleled pan-Indian appeal and the project’s global buzz.
A Gritty Period Gangster Epic Directed by Geetu Mohandas
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Geetu Mohandas-known for her critically praised works like Liar’s Dice and Moothon-Toxic is co-written by Yash himself. This savage action-thriller is set in the sun-kissed yet shadowy world of Goa, spanning the 1940s to the 1970s, blending fading colonial echoes with the brutal rise of crime syndicates.
Synopsis: Building an Empire Through Blood and Betrayal
According to the film’s official synopsis, Toxic follows Yash’s formidable character as he seizes power in a ruthless underworld. “Set in Goa between the early 1940s and the 1970s, Toxic is a savage action-thriller saga that plunges into the rot festering beneath paradise. In this coastal land of fading colonial shadows and rising crime syndicates, a man forges his empire through blood, fear, and betrayal. Power is not granted, it is seized, and it always demands repayment. As smuggling routes become battlegrounds and loyalties unravel into suspicion, paranoia turns into a means of survival.”
Star-Studded Ensemble Cast Ready to Ignite the Screen
Yash leads in a powerful dual role, supported by a formidable ensemble including Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth. Produced jointly by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the film promises high-octane action, intense drama, and a dark, fairy-tale-like narrative for mature audiences.
Clash of Titans: March 19, 2026 Box Office Showdown
Toxic is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026, in multiple languages including Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and English. It will face stiff competition at the box office, going head-to-head with Ranveer Singh’s highly anticipated Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge (also known as Dhurandhar: The Revenge), setting the stage for one of the biggest clashes of the year during the festive Ugadi-Gudi Padwa-Eid window.
This pan-Indian gangster thriller is poised to deliver a cinematic spectacle, building on Yash’s blockbuster legacy post-KGF. Fans are already counting down to what promises to be a toxic yet thrilling ride!
Floyd May weather confirmed he will return to professional boxing after facing Mike Tyson in an exhibition bout this spring. The 48-year-old, unbeaten in 50 fights, said details of his first pro opponent will be revealed in the coming weeks.
Money May weather Officially Ends Retirement -Pro Return Incoming
Floyd May weather is coming out of retirement and will return to professional boxing after his exhibition fight with Mike Tyson this spring, the 48-year-old announced Friday. Former multi-weight world champion may Weather retired from boxing in 2017, unbeaten in 50 bouts, though he has appeared in several exhibition fights since.
“I Still Have What It Takes” – May weather’s Confident Statement
“I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing,” May weather said in a statement to AFP. “From my upcoming Mike Tyson event to my next professional fight afterwards – no one will generate a bigger gate, have a larger global broadcast audience and generate more money with each event than my events.”
First Pro Fight Locked In: Summer 2026 Target
A first professional fight is tentatively scheduled for this summer, against an opponent to be announced. Details will be revealed “in the coming weeks,” said the statement. Nicknamed “Money”, May weather was once the world’s highest-paid athlete, with earnings of $300 million in 2015, according to Forbes.
The Peak of “Money” –Pound-for-Pound King & Controversial Figure
At his peak he was widely considered boxing’s pound-for-pound king, dominating the welterweight division for more than a decade. Despite his success, May weather has long been a controversial figure. He was often criticized for an overly defensive style, and accused by some of dodging the most dangerous opponents simply to embellish his record.
May weather has also spent time in prison for one of a string of domestic violence incidents. But his supreme fitness, work ethic, athleticism and boxing brain earned him the respect of his peers in the ring.
Last Pro Fight & Exhibition Era
May weather’s last professional bout was in 2017 against UFC star Conor McGregor. He has continued to appear in exhibitions, including a victory over John Gotti III in Mexico in August 2024, as well as bouts with reality television stars and YouTube fighters.
New Promotional Deal & Tyson Exhibition Details
May weather has signed an exclusive agreement with promoter CSI Sports/Fight Sports, to begin following his Tyson bout. Boxing outlet Ring Magazine recently reported that May weather’s exhibition fight with Tyson will take place on April 25 in the Congo, though neither date nor location has been officially confirmed.
Mike Tyson’s Recent Activity
“Iron Mike” Tyson, 59, last appeared in the ring in a lopsided loss to YouTuber-turned prizefighter Jake Paul in November 2024 in Texas. Tyson barely landed a punch in that Netflix-backed bout, which was watched by a live crowd of around 70,000 spectators with an estimated millions more tuning in around the world.
Dehradun, Uttarakhand – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the Champawat Saras Corbett Festival-2026 (also known as Champawat Saras Corbett Mahotsav-2026) from his camp office in Dehradun. The festival, running from February 18 to 24, 2026, is being held at the ground near the Central Water Commission Office in Tanakpur, Champawat district.
In his address, CM Dhami expressed confidence in the infectious enthusiasm and celebratory atmosphere filling every household in Champawat. He highlighted the unique charm of Holi celebrations in Kali Kumaon, which stand out for their distinctive cultural blend rarely seen elsewhere in India. The Chief Minister described the event as far more than a week-long gathering-it is a dynamic showcase of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage, pristine natural beauty, women’s empowerment, youth energy, and the vision of a self-reliant state.This year’s festival incorporates elements of a “Winter Corbett Festival” to boost winter tourism in the region. By spotlighting Champawat’s proximity to wildlife areas and its historical ties to conservation legend Jim Corbett, the event aims to draw visitors during the quieter, cooler months and establish year-round tourism.
Blending Adventure, Culture, and Empowerment
The Mahotsav places Champawat firmly on the national adventure tourism map with thrilling activities such as paragliding, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, river rafting, paramotoring, bird watching, and trekking. CM Dhami expressed optimism that these initiatives will create fresh employment opportunities for local youth and promote sustainable livelihoods.
A key focus is on empowering local artisans, self-help groups, and rural entrepreneurs. Dedicated stalls and exhibitions showcase traditional Himalayan crafts, woolen textiles, organic products, and indigenous handiwork, bridging the gap between age-old craftsmanship and modern markets. The festival aligns with the “Vocal for Local” ethos, elevating regional products to a wider audience.
Visitors can savor a diverse food festival featuring traditional and popular cuisines from across India, along with local culinary delights that preserve and promote Uttarakhand’s food heritage.
Rich Cultural Showcases and Community Engagement
The event brings Kumaoni culture to life through folk music, traditional dances, interactive displays, Madhubani painting workshops, modern art exhibitions, quiz competitions, science shows, and vibrant folk performances. These elements serve as both entertainment and educational tools, fostering deeper appreciation for the Himalayan lifestyle.
Wildlife Conservation and Eco-Tourism Emphasis
Drawing on the region’s storied wildlife legacy-particularly the famous 1907 incident where Jim Corbett eliminated a man-eating tigress in the Champawat-Lohaghat area-the festival advances tiger conservation and wildlife awareness. Eco-friendly practices are prioritized, with promotions of low-impact activities like nature trails, bird watching, and responsible tourism to protect the pristine environment.
Economic Boost and Infrastructure Push
The Saras Corbett Festival is strategically designed to stimulate economic growth by attracting visitors nationwide, boosting demand for hospitality, transport, and retail. Infrastructure upgrades-including roads, sanitation, and information centers-are underway to ensure seamless accessibility and an enhanced visitor experience.
In essence, the Champawat Saras Corbett Mahotsav 2026 promises a perfect fusion of culture, tradition, spirituality, youth dynamism, entrepreneurship, and adventure. It stands as a milestone in promoting eastern Kumaon’s untapped potential, empowering communities, and building a sustainable tourism model for Uttarakhand’s future. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, or serene winter escapes in the Himalayas, this festival offers something for everyone.
On February 20, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new 10% additional tariff on imports from all countries, describing it as an extra layer over and above existing duties. This move came hours after the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated his prior sweeping tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Supreme Court Delivers Major Setback
In a landmark 6-3 ruling in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, the Supreme Court held that the IEEPA does not authorize the president to impose tariffs. The decision, authored by Chief Justice John Roberts and joined by Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch along with the three liberal justices, struck down billions in “reciprocal” and fentanyl-related duties that had been in effect for about a year.
Trump’s Sharp Rebuke of the Justices
Trump responded with fierce criticism, calling the ruling a “disgrace” and labeling the justices who sided against him as unpatriotic. He highlighted the unusual 6-3 split, where two conservative justices joined the liberal bloc, and vowed to protect American interests through alternative means.
New Tariff Invokes Rarely Used Authority
The new 10% global tariff is being imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which permits a temporary import surcharge of up to 15% for 150 days to address serious balance-of-payments deficits. This marks the first time a president has invoked this provision for such broad duties.
Effective Date and Scope
The additional duties are scheduled to take effect on February 24, 2026. Trump emphasized that all existing tariffs-such as those under Section 232 (national security, e.g., steel and aluminum) and Section 301 (unfair trade practices)-remain in “full force and effect.” Key Exemptions in Place
The new 10% tariff will generally not apply to goods covered by the USMCA (U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or certain agricultural products and other exempt items previously carved out, providing some relief for North American trade and specific sectors.
Financial Fallout from the Ruling
The Supreme Court’s decision could require the U.S. government to refund between $142 billion and $175 billion to importers who paid the now-invalidated IEEPA tariffs in 2025. Trump suggested this refund process might drag on in litigation for years.
Market Response and Investor Sentiment
U.S. stock markets reacted positively to the invalidation of the emergency tariffs, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posting gains. Investors viewed the ruling as a potential easing of inflationary pressures from the broadest duties.
Long-Term Trade Strategy
During the 150-day window of the new temporary tariff, the administration plans to initiate new Section 301 investigations aimed at establishing more permanent-and potentially higher-tariffs on unfair trading practices by other countries and companies.
What Lies Ahead
The new levies are limited to a maximum of 150 days without congressional approval for extension. Trump has signaled a protracted legal battle over tariff refunds while pivoting to preserve his aggressive trade agenda through other statutory tools. This rapid response underscores ongoing tensions between executive trade powers and judicial oversight.
Eight-year-old coding prodigy Ranvir Sachdeva made history at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, becoming the youngest speaker to address the prestigious global gathering at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Surrounded by global technology leaders, policymakers, and innovators, Ranvir presented his vision of connecting ancient Indian philosophy with modern Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In his keynote address, he spoke about India’s unique approach to AI development and shared insights into an Indian AI model use case. He also highlighted the importance of AI literacy and its role in driving economic growth and innovation.
Engagement with Global Technology Leaders
Ranvir’s participation at the summit brought him face-to-face with global tech leaders, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
Earlier, he interacted with Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin at the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva. In 2024, he also met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, marking his growing international recognition.
Early Start in Coding and Innovation
Ranvir began coding at the age of three. In 2023, at just five years old, he showcased his coding skills during Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit to New Delhi for the opening of Apple’s retail store.
At the age of six, he became the world’s youngest TEDx speaker, addressing topics related to technology and innovation. He also developed a prototype rocket concept for Mars exploration, which received recognition from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).
Recognition and Achievements
In 2022, Ranvir won a gold medal as a “Super Presenter” in the Global Reading Challenge. His ability to integrate philosophy, science, and technology has earned him visibility on national and international platforms.
Important Facts
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine systems capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence.
International Telecommunication Union (ITU): A specialised United Nations agency for information and communication technologies.
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL): A leading centre for robotic space exploration missions.
Bharat Mandapam: A major international conference and summit venue in New Delhi.
Symbol of Youth Participation in AI
Ranvir Sachdeva’s participation at a global AI platform highlights the increasing involvement of young innovators in emerging technologies. His journey reflects India’s emphasis on nurturing early technological talent and promoting AI awareness among the next generation.
