Organizers of the Bidhannagar Mela Utsav in Kolkata have requested Bangladeshi traders to withdraw from the fair due to the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh. Refunds are being issued for pre-booked stalls to prevent potential trouble and ensure the safety of the traders. The fair, featuring around 500 stalls, will proceed as planned from Tuesday to January 6th.

Israel launched intense airstrikes in Syria’s Tartus region, targeting military sites and reportedly devastating air defense and missile storage facilities. This marks the heaviest bombardment in the area since 2012. Israel claims the strikes are preemptive measures to thwart security threats, while Syria’s de facto leader criticizes them as unprovoked aggression.

PM Modi has condoled the demise of legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, praising his unparalleled contribution to Indian classical music and global cultural unity.