🏞️ Google brings US National Parks to virtual world

To mark 110 years since its creation, the NPS partnered with Google Arts & Culture for a new virtual hub. This platform allows global audiences to explore America's natural landscapes and historic landmarks digitally. It features over 150 curated stories, 30 virtual tours, and 3D artifacts for interactive viewing. This initiative prioritizes broad public access to America's cultural heritage, as stated by Jessica Bowron. The platform serves as a key project for National Park Week, enhancing accessibility to these sites. 🏞️

🎞️ Shanti Theatre: Chennai's cinematic throwback 🎬

Shanti Theatre, located on Anna Salai, opened in January 1961, built by G. Umapathy and D. Shanmuga Raja. It was inaugurated by Chief Minister K. Kamaraj and initially screened 'Thooya Ullam'. The theatre boasted 1,200 seats and later saw investment from Sivaji Ganesan. It later hosted 'Chandramukhi' in 2005, running for 888 days. Now, the site has been transformed into a prime office space for multinational firms.

🎭 Old theatre on Anna Salai is now an office hub

The legendary Shanthi theatre, which opened in January 1961, has been replaced by a corporate hub on Anna Salai. It was built by G. Umapathy and D. Shanmuga Raja and opened by CM K. Kamaraj. Initially costing ₹20 lakh with 1,200 seats, it later became a major spot for Sivaji Ganesan's films. In 2005, it was renovated for Chandramukhi, holding a record 888 days. Now, the spot houses prime office space for multinational firms.

💧 Nepal flood kills 95; US pauses visas

A flash flood and mudslide in Nepal resulted in at least 95 deaths, with hundreds of foreign nationals missing. This disaster struck the Rasuwa district, located about 120 km north of Kathmandu, near China. As of the incident, 291 foreign citizens remain unaccounted for, including over 100 Indian tourists. Separately, the US Trump administration paused immigrant visa appointments globally for official training. Meanwhile, a Supreme Court judge criticized the Rajasthan High Court's acting chief justice for alleged misuse of power. 😥

🦟 Malaria strikes Frankfurt Airport staff

At least two Frankfurt Airport employees have died after contracting malaria during an outbreak. The cases involved staff members at Frankfurt Airport, which is operated by Fraport. The first death was in July, and the second fatality occurred in August 🦟. This rare 'airport malaria' outbreak affected six employees, even though they hadn't traveled to a malaria-risk country. Authorities are currently analyzing captured mosquitoes to track the source of the infection.

👶 10 babies die at Malda hospital in one day

Ten infants passed away at Malda Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal on August 12, leading the state government to demand a detailed report. West Bengal Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee confirmed the incident and asked for specifics regarding the cause of each infant's death. Hospital officials stated that eight of the ten infants were referred from other locations, while two were born there. Approximately 60 infants have died at the hospital during August, according to State Health Department sources. The authorities are investigating these deaths amid existing concerns about the infant mortality rate in the region. 😥

⚖️ Deloitte pays $21.5M in U.S. anti-DEI case

The U.S. Department of Justice settled with Deloitte, requiring the firm to pay $21.5 million. This settlement addresses allegations of racial or sex discrimination used in hiring and promotions at Deloitte. The DOJ's Civil Rights Fraud Initiative has been cracking down on DEI policies used by federal contractors. Allegations included using race/sex to meet demographic goals for staff and promotions. Moving forward, the DOJ vows to pursue contractors using taxpayer funds for unlawful discrimination. ⚖️

🌳 Minister pushes for more green cover in Bidar

Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed officials to prioritize afforestation across Bidar district. This instruction was given during his visit to Deva-Deva Vana on Wednesday. The Minister inspected various parks and stressed the need to protect existing flora and fauna habitats. He called for public awareness programs to promote tree planting and environmental conservation efforts. The state government will provide funding to develop forest areas and beautify tree parks for tourism.

😠 UP councillors' Ganga oath over illegal cash

A controversial video surfaced showing Shahjahanpur municipal councillors pledging to equally share illegal commissions. The footage allegedly captured the group taking an oath while holding Ganga water. The Congress has demanded an investigation, citing widespread financial irregularities within the corporation. Municipal Commissioner Soumya Guru Rani stated the video might be old and promised an examination. The inquiry aims to verify the video's context and the validity of the corruption allegations.

🕊️ Peace rallies and food drives marked Milad-un-Nabi

Residents celebrated Milad-un-Nabi with peace rallies and food distribution drives across Tirupati and Nellore. The Deen-e-Milad Tahreek Association held an event in Tirupati where meals were given to the poor. A juloos was organized in the 29th Division of Nellore Rural constituency. Furthermore, a food distribution drive catering to 4,000 people took place at Madrasa-e-Teeb-ul-Islam. Religious elders used the occasion to spread Prophet Muhammad’s message of peace and brotherhood globally.

🏏 Abhishek Bachchan kicks off ETPL 2026

Abhishek Bachchan marked the opening day of the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) 2026 by posting a picture with the league trophy. He is a co-founder and co-owner of the league, which is taking place in Voorburg. The first match saw Rotterdam Dockers take on Amsterdam Flames on Wednesday, August 26. The league aims to establish a professional T20 cricket structure across Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. This venture further solidifies Bachchan's involvement in sports beyond his acting career. 🏏