🎉 Kochi gears up for Thiruvonam festivities

Last-minute Onam shopping in Kochi saw a subdued turnout on Uthradam day despite improved weather. The Ernakulam market experienced slow business, causing traders to reduce vegetable orders from Tamil Nadu suppliers. While the major sales were expected near Thiruvonam, heavy rain since Monday disrupted consumer momentum. Fisheries Minister V.E. Abdul Gafoor visited the decorated Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple on Tuesday. Preparations for the traditional votive lunch are now underway ahead of Thiruvonam. 🥳

⚔️ Witcher 3 Remastered is a free upgrade soon

The Witcher 3 Remastered is launching as a free upgrade for existing owners on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S next month, specifically on September 29. The developer, CD Projekt Red, confirmed this during Gamescom's Opening Night Live event. The remastered version includes major updates like tweaked combat and ray-tracing improvements, alongside the first two expansions at no extra cost. A separate Switch 2 version will be sold, and the third expansion, Songs of the Past, is set for 2027. Meanwhile, The Witcher 4 is currently targeting a 2028 release window. ⚔️

🚀 Samsung's Smart Switch just got a major upgrade

Samsung has updated its Smart Switch app within One UI 9 to make phone switching way easier. For users moving from an iPhone to a Galaxy Z8, the setup now uses a QR code scan instead of needing the app on the iPhone. This new version can transfer more data, including passwords, passkeys, and eSIM details, alongside usual items. Furthermore, new One UI 9 devices support Apple's AirDrop via Quick Share, adding compatibility. This update is currently on Galaxy Z Fold8, Z Fold8 Ultra, and Z Flip8, with more devices rolling out soon.

📱 Screenless tech is taking over the wearable game

Phone fatigue is driving a rise in screenless wearable technology, as seen with WHOOP and Oura Ring. David Glantz, a Cornell graduate, switched from smartwatches because they felt like an extension of his phone. WHOOP, which launched its first workout band in 2016, had 2.5 million active members as of March. Experts suggest sleep tracking is a huge factor, as people want unobtrusive monitoring for wellness. These devices are becoming more discreet and comfortable for sleep, blending into daily life. 😴

🔬 Stem Cell Therapy Trial Makes Big Leap

A first-in-human pilot trial has shown significant improvements in stem cell collection and delivery methods. This research involved participants at Medical Xpress, focusing on developing gene therapy for sickle cell disease. The trial tracked data over a period leading up to a specific date, though exact numbers aren't detailed here. This advancement is crucial for making sickle cell gene therapy more viable and effective for patients. Researchers plan to continue further studies based on these promising initial results.

🩺 Diabetes risks differ for men and women, study shows

A new study revealed distinct health risks following a type 2 diabetes diagnosis for men and women. This research, by Fabiola Eto and colleagues, analyzed 28,720 UK participants diagnosed between 2010 and 2020. Women were more prone to mental health issues, while men faced higher cardiovascular and renal complications. The findings underscore the need for sex-specific healthcare interventions in diabetes management. Routine psychological screening is suggested for younger women, and earlier monitoring for men is advised.

⚔️ Gears of War: E-Day campaign is fire 🔥

The Gears of War: E-Day campaign demo provided a nostalgic and intense preview of the new saga. It drops players into the city of Kalona, where the Locust brutally ambush the area, featuring Marcus and Dom. The action spans three intense nights, starting with Bravo Squad assembling at COG base in early hours. The gameplay feels like the original but with a modern, responsive edge. Players learn about the smart, terrifying Locust enemies while fighting for survival.

🔥 Big fire hits stationery godown in Angamaly

A massive fire completely destroyed a godown next to a stationery supermarket in Angamaly on Tuesday. The fire started at Babu’s Traders Wholesale Supermarket near the national highway around 4 p.m. It was finally controlled by 6:30 p.m., causing major traffic disruption. The owner got hurt trying to put out the blaze, which involved flammable plastic materials. Officials are currently investigating the unknown cause of this incident. 😟

🦅 CIA Director's Moscow Trip Sparks Buzz

CIA Director John Ratcliffe reportedly made a 'secret' visit to Moscow recently. The visit took place in the Russian capital, sparking significant international discussion. Specific details regarding the exact date and purpose of the trip have not been publicly disclosed. This clandestine meeting raises questions about current geopolitical alignments and intelligence sharing. Further information is anticipated as the situation develops in the coming weeks.

🗣️ Protest erupts against RSS chief's NYC event

The Indian American Muslim Council and allied groups protested Mohan Bhagwat's upcoming Madison Square Garden event. The demonstration took place in New York City on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, uniting diverse community organizations. Organizers urged Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani not to allow the event on August 29, citing his ideology. Critics described Bhagwat as promoting Hindu supremacist views and an anti-minority organization. Bhagwat's visit is part of the RSS centenary outreach to diaspora communities. 🗽

🗣️ Protest against Mohan Bhagwat's Madison Square Garden event

The Indian American Muslim Council and allied groups protested Mohan Bhagwat's upcoming event at Madison Square Garden. The protest took place in New York City on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, against his appearance on August 29. Organizers urged NYC Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani not to allow the event, citing his Hindu supremacist ideology. Various groups criticized him for his stance and actions, such as the Bilkis Bano case. Bhagwat's US visit is part of the RSS centenary-year global outreach program. 🇮🇳