From HT Archives: Ray gets the Oscar for ‘mastery in arts of motion pictures’

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded Satyajit Ray an Oscar for lifetime achievement on March 16, 1992, in his hospital bed in Calcutta. During the Academy Awards ceremony, a video of Ray receiving the award was shown, with Ray expressing his gratitude for the "magnificent award, certainly the best achievement of my movie-making career." Ray also noted that he learned everything about cinema from American films and had tried to capture something unique in Indian experience that was universal. Ray, who had hoped to attend the ceremony, was hospitalised several weeks before it took place.

Chandigarh administration cancels UT employees' leaves amid tensions with Pakistan

The Chandigarh Administration has canceled leaves for UT employees amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, requiring them to remain at their headquarters. Similarly, the Haryana government has imposed restrictions on state employees, particularly in the health department. These measures follow recent missile strikes by Indian forces on terror targets in Pakistan in response to a previous attack.

BJP functionary booked over objectionable Facebook posts in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia

An FIR has been filed against Anil Soni, a BJP office-bearer in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly posting offensive remarks on Facebook targeting the Muslim community. The complaint cites derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad and a controversial post about sugarcane juice. Protests erupted locally, demanding legal action, and police confirmed that investigations are underway.

Pope Leo XIV: Revisiting Cardinal Robert Prevost’s two trips to Kochi

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, was ordained priests in Kochi in 2004. As an Augustinian, he's the first American pope, known for humility and compassion. His two visits to India deeply impacted local Catholic communities, emphasizing simplicity and support for the oppressed.

Pakistan SC strengthens army chief Asim Munir as it upholds military trials for civilians involved in protests

Pakistan's Supreme Court has upheld military trials for civilians involved in the May 9 protests following Imran Khan's arrest. A 5-2 majority ruled that over 100 demonstrators could be prosecuted under military jurisdiction, while dissenting justices maintained these trials are unconstitutional. The court also mandated amendments to the Army Act to allow appeals against military court convictions.

India, Chile to start negotiations for free trade deal on May 26

India and Chile will start free trade agreement negotiations on May 26 in New Delhi, aiming to boost bilateral trade and collaboration in critical minerals, digital services, and investment sectors, following the signing of terms of reference for a comprehensive economic partnership.

SC rejects BJP leader’s plea to enforce NEP’s three-language formula in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal

Supreme Court dismisses BJP leader's plea to enforce NEP's three-language formula in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal. The court lacks power to compel states to adopt the policy and questioned the petitioner's relevance to the issue.

Delhi temples hold prayers for Indian Army's safety, national unity

Temples in Delhi are conducting prayers and "havan" ceremonies for the safety of armed forces and the nation's well-being amid the India-Pakistan military conflict. Rituals include recitations of "Durga Saptashati," "Hanuman Chalisa," and "Vishnu Sahasranama," focusing on peace and national harmony. Collective prayers aim to foster unity, spiritual resilience, and gratitude towards Mother Earth.

Centre authorises Army Chief to call up Territorial Army amid India-Pak tensions

Government authorizes Army Chief to mobilize Territorial Army units amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, enabling deployment of 32 infantry battalions across key military commands to support regular forces.

Meghalaya imposes 2-month night curfew along Indo-Bangladesh border amid rising tensions

A night curfew has been imposed in East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, due to concerns over illegal border activities amid tensions between India and Pakistan. The curfew, effective from May 8, 2025, restricts movement near the Indo-Bangladesh border and bans gatherings of five or more people. Bangladesh has urged both nations to exercise restraint following India’s military response to a recent terror attack.

War not a solution; countries must resolve matters through dialogue: AIMPLB amid Indo-Pak tensions

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has urged dialogue over conflict in light of rising India-Pakistan tensions, emphasizing that war is not a solution, especially with nuclear capabilities involved. They will continue their "Save Waqf Campaign," but public events are postponed for a week. The board condemned terrorism and called for unity among citizens and authorities.

Bid to target military installations in Rajasthan foiled, drones intercepted

Pakistan attempted drone attacks on five Rajasthan military installations, but Indian forces intercepted and destroyed the drones mid-air. Heightened tensions followed India's cross-border strikes, with multiple drone and missile attacks repelled along the border.

Mk Stalin to lead Chennai rally tomorrow in support of armed forces amid Indo-Pak tensions

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin announces a solidarity rally in Chennai supporting armed forces on May 10, honoring their bravery against terrorist attacks. He also pledged assistance for 52 Tamil Nadu students in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring their safe return.

Delhi: Air raid sirens to be tested in ITO, public urged not to panic

Delhi government and police will test new air raid sirens in ITO on Friday afternoon, covering a 4 km radius. Authorities urge public not to panic, emphasizing this is a precautionary drill amid India-Pakistan tensions.

Supreme Court sets aside Wikipedia order, says cannot tell media what to publish

Supreme Court overturns Delhi high court's order against Wikipedia, defending media freedom and right to public discussion. Emphasizes courts must remain open to scrutiny, and mere criticism doesn't constitute contempt unless it threatens judicial administration.

Mumbai: Failed girder launch halts CR’s Trans Harbour line, hits morning commute

A failed girder launch by MMRDA disrupted Mumbai's Central Railway Trans Harbour line, causing train cancellations, 30-45 minute delays, and 56 service suspensions between Thane and Vashi during morning peak hours.