🏛️ Kokers Theatre demolition sparks big council fight

A structural stability test is required before deciding the fate of the iconic Kokers Theatre in Fort Kochi. Mayor V.K. Minimol announced this amid a heated clash between the UDF and LDF councils regarding the building's future. The finance committee had estimated demolition costs at ₹4.50 lakh, with a total project estimate of ₹19.54 lakh. The Tourism department wants to convert the structure into a cultural center while addressing collapsing parts. Further action is pending on a separate rented structure adjacent to the main building. 🎭

🚢 Houthi seize Yemen port, threaten Red Sea shipping 🚢

Iran-backed Houthis seized control of Yemen's port city of Mocha on Thursday, advancing along the Red Sea coast to strategic islands. This development occurred while Gulf traffic faced restrictions through the Strait of Hormuz. The port is crucial for controlling shipping through the Red Sea, which handles about 12 percent of global goods. This escalation raises major concerns about freedom of navigation in a dangerous phase of the Yemen war. International bodies are now urging action as oil prices jump due to these route disruptions.

💔 Man confesses to killing kids over wife's new job

A 40-year-old man allegedly killed his two minor daughters before attempting suicide at a five-star hotel. The incident took place near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru last month. He allegedly strangled Shaik Zoya, 10, and Shaik Zehara, 5, on August 10. Imran claimed the murders stemmed from fears about his daughters' upbringing after his marriage worsened. He is currently in judicial custody at Bengaluru Central Prison. 😔

🎾 Sabalenka powers to US Open final against Rybakina

Elena Rybakina defeated Coco Gauff in a crucial match to position Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open final. Sabalenka, who previously lost the 2023 final to Gauff, has regained form after setbacks at other majors. Her victory over Pegula saw her break the Open era record for consecutive Grand Slam hard-court finals since the 2023 Australian Open. The 28-year-old is now set to compete in the championship match on her preferred surface. This run confirms Sabalenka's dominance on hard courts this season. 🎾

🌱 India's feminism is collective, not just one icon

Following the passing of iconic American feminist Gloria Steinem, the focus shifts to localized activism in India. In Maharashtra, women's groups marked 50 years of feminist activism through collective efforts and diverse issues. Major events include the 65-day Dignity March, where survivors walked over 10,000 kilometres across 24 States. Activism has historically focused on issues like land, caste, and violence, as seen in the 70s. These movements showcase resilience through community mobilization rather than relying on a single central figure. ✊

🏏 St Kitts vs Barbados: Cricket Action Update

The cricket match is currently underway between St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and Barbados Tridents at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados. St Kitts & Nevis Patriots finished their first inning with a score of 118/10 after 20 overs. Barbados Tridents started their second inning, reaching 65/3 in 9.6 overs. The match toss saw Barbados Tridents opt to bowl first. The conditions are fast with swing favourable for bowling. 🏏

🔥 Trump stands by Iran war amid Middle East flare-ups

Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he does not regret the Iran war, even with potential impacts on the US midterm elections. This statement followed renewed US attacks on Tehran and retaliatory strikes on Middle East bases. Brent oil climbed near $108 a barrel as Houthi-Saudi fighting intensified in the region. Iran-backed Houthis captured Yemen's port city of Mocha and advanced toward the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf subsequently expressed support for the Houthis' success.

🏏 Rohit's 'October 2027' comment sparks ODI debate

Rohit Sharma commented that October 2027 is far away when asked about the next 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. He made the statement during a function in Mumbai, addressing audience queries about his future in international cricket. This follows recent speculation after he was stripped of captaincy and assertions from Devajit Saikia. Rohit has recently scored a century at Lord's, keeping his silence on future plans. He is currently focusing on upcoming ODIs against the West Indies and New Zealand.

🎾 Sabalenka crushes Pegula, eyes US Open hat-trick 🏆

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula with a score of 7-5, 6-2 in the U.S. Open semifinal on Thursday night. This match was held in New York, where Sabalenka dominated after finding her rhythm in the second set. Her victory puts her one win away from a historic three-peat at the US Open. She will face either Elena Rybakina or Coco Gauff in Saturday's final match. This run is impressive, as it extends her streak to 19 matches at Flushing Meadows.

🤝 Xi-Modi Meet Focuses on Economic Talk

A strategic economic dialogue is slated to be a key topic during the upcoming meeting between Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi. This high-level discussion is expected to take place during their bilateral talks. The agenda is set for the meeting scheduled for October 2024. The conversation will cover trade agreements and investment opportunities between the two nations. Both sides anticipate significant progress in strengthening their economic ties moving forward. 🤝

🎬 Hanuman Ansh hits Rs 10cr on Day 35

'Hanuman Ansh' grossed Rs 10.00 cr in India net on its 35th day, according to Sacnilk. The film stars Shobhit Srivastava and Chandan Anand and was running across 7,664 shows. This Day 35 figure is just 2.4% lower than the Rs 10.25 cr earned on Wednesday, with Week 5 now standing at Rs 90.25 cr. The movie has accumulated a total India net collection of Rs 163.13 cr across its run. The film continues to show strong numbers despite the minor dip in recent collections.