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I want to do things beyond comedy as well: Kiku Sharda – The Times of India

Jungle safaris in India for the new year: Top 10 picks for 2025 adventures
Revisiting Sonam Bajwa's Top Fashion Moments from 2024
Kajol shines gracefully in a gorgeous pink silk saree
​20-minute workout guide for women to get rid of fat around waist​
How to make classic Chicken Curry for a special lunch
New Year 2025: 8 refreshing detox drinks to recharge after New Year party
​9 ways to spend the first day of New Year with your kid​
10 destinations in India that are a breath of fresh air
Aditi Rao Hydari shines in a stunning teal and black sharara set

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Breaking news live updates, January 1: US imposes sanctions on Russian, Iranian entities over attempt to influence presidential elections – The Times of India

World news: 29 injured in aerial firing in Karachi on New Year’s night
New Year celebrations in Karachi turned grim as aerial firing across the city left at least 29 people injured, including women and children, rescue officials confirmed. The injuries occurred during celebratory gunfire in the early hours of January 1, 2025, ARY News reported.

The incidents were reported from multiple areas, including Liaquatabad, Tariq Road, Shah Faisal, Orangi Town, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Azizabad, and Korangi. In Liaquatabad, three individuals were injured by stray bullets, while two women sustained injuries in separate incidents on Tariq Road and Shah Faisal.

Orangi Town and Gulshan-e-Iqbal reported two injuries each, and in Azizabad, a child was struck by a stray bullet, highlighting the dangers of celebratory firing in densely populated areas.

India news: Woman tries to kill 21-year-old friend in Noida for refusing to marry her
A woman in Noida allegedly attempted to murder a 21-year-old man she recently befriended on social media after he refused to marry her, police reported on Wednesday. The victim, currently receiving treatment at a hospital, was reportedly targeted after the woman spiked his drink and enlisted two accomplices to attack him with a sharp weapon.

Rabupura police station in-charge, Inspector Raghavendra Kumar Singh, stated that Hansraj, a resident of Ronija village, filed a complaint on Tuesday night. According to the report, his son Dheeraj, a 21-year-old BCom student, received a call from Priya on the morning of December 24, asking to meet.

Hansraj revealed that Priya and Dheeraj had connected through social media approximately six months ago, leading to her arrival in Greater Noida.

Pakistan hikes petrol and diesel prices amid public outcry over inflation
The Pakistan government announced on Tuesday an increase in fuel prices, raising high-speed diesel by PKR 2.96 per litre and petrol by 56 Pakistan paisas per litre, ARY News reported.

Following the hike, petrol is now priced at PKR 252.66 per litre, while high-speed diesel stands at PKR 258.34 per litre.

As reported by ARY News, these price adjustments are part of routine revisions driven by global market trends and domestic economic factors.

This marks the second fuel price increase in a month, highlighting ongoing economic pressures in the country.

IDF confirms elimination of Hamas Commander Abd al-Hadi Sabah, leader of Oct 7 Kibbutz Nir Oz attack
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday (local time) confirmed the killing of Hamas’ Nukhba Platoon commander, Abd al-Hadi Sabah, in a recent drone strike.
As per the IDF, Sabah had led the attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7, 2023, massacre.

The Nukhba Platoon commander in Hamas’ Western Khan Yunis Battalion was eliminated in the Khan Yunis area of southern Gaza, the IDF added in its statement.

“Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a Nukhba Platoon Commander in the Western Khan Yunis Battalion was eliminated in an intelligence-based IDF and ISA strike,” the IDF wrote on X.

They also added,” Abd al-Hadi Sabah–who operated from a shelter in the Humanitarian Area in Khan Yunis–was one of the leaders of the infiltration into Kibbutz Nir Oz during the murderous October 7 Massacre. Sabah also led and advanced numerous terrorist attacks against IDF troops throughout the current war. The IDF and ISA will continue to operate against all of the terrorists who took part in the murderous October 7 Massacre.”

Earlier, the IDF reported that its units, working with the Shin Bet (Israel’s General Security Service), eliminated 14 Hamas terrorists, six of whom had participated in the October 7 massacre. These operations were carried out as part of the IDF’s 162nd “Steel” Division’s ongoing activity in the Gaza Strip.

The 162nd Division operated in the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia, as part of the joint activity of the IDF and Shin Bet to locate and eliminate terrorists who took part in the October 7 attack.

The 162nd Division has been operating in the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia, as part of the joint effort between the IDF and Shin Bet to locate and eliminate terrorists involved in the October 7 attack.

On October 7 last year, Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages. Around 100 hostages remain in captivity, with many feared dead.

In response, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza. However, the Israeli operation has resulted in over 45,000 Palestinian casualties in Gaza. The mounting civilian toll has raised global concerns and increased calls for a ceasefire.

The conflict has escalated further, with Houthi rebels from Yemen and Hezbollah from Lebanon–both considered Iran’s proxies–intensifying their offensives against Israel, compelling Tel Aviv to engage in a multi-front war.

Thief swipes USD 13 million in jewels, handbags, cash from London mansion
Police in London are searching for a burglar who broke into an occupied mansion and stole more than USD 13.2 million worth of jewellery, designer handbags and cash. The owners of the estate, identified in British media as an Instagram influencer and her developer husband, were not home at the time on December 7. But employees were there and a housekeeper had a near run-in with the armed intruder, according to surveillance footage.
“This is a brazen offense where the suspect has entered the property while armed with an unknown weapon,” Det. Constable Paulo Roberts of the Metropolitan Police said on Monday, when the theft was announced.

Among the stolen items were a 10.73-carat diamond ring, diamond earrings and a clip studded with gold, diamonds and sapphires. The haul also included USD 1,89,000 worth of handbags.

The homeowners have offered a USD 6,28,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect, and an additional reward of 10 per cent of the value of recovered items.

Police said the suspect broke in by climbing through a second-floor window.

Surveillance footage obtained by the MailOnline showed the man walking down a corridor a minute before a maid stepped off an elevator in the same place.

The home near Regent’s Park in one of London’s wealthiest areas.

No one can ever stop China’s reunification: President Xi Jinping
Chinese President Xi Jinping underlined that no one could prevent China’s ‘reunification’ with Taiwan, and affirmed that China will continue its “united front” efforts.
In his New Year’s message on Tuesday, Xi also highlighted China’s aim to strengthen international cooperation, promote mutual understanding, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Earlier, Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said in a post on X, “On New Year’s Eve, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered his 2025 New Year message via China Media Group and the Internet.”

“We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us, and no one can ever stop China’s reunification, a trend of the times,” Xi Jinping said.

He also stressed that China will work with other countries to ensure enhanced cooperation.

“As changes unseen in a century accelerate across the world, it is important to rise above estrangement and conflict with a broad vision, and care for the future of humanity with great passion. China will work with all countries to promote friendship and cooperation, enhance mutual learning among different cultures, and build a community with a shared future for mankind. We must jointly create a better future for the world,” he said.

Earlier, on December 28, China’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced that it would investigate claims made in a YouTube video about China’s efforts to politically influence young Taiwanese and encourage them to apply for Chinese ID cards, Taipei Times reported.

The council’s comments followed the release of a video on Saturday by Taiwanese rapper Chen Po-yuan and YouTuber “Pa Chiung,” detailing China’s “united front” tactics. It is the second video on the subject released by the pair this month.

In the video, Chen visited the Taiwan Youth Entrepreneurship Park in Quanzhou, Fujian Province, and the Strait Herald news platform in Xiamen, China.

Lin Jingdong, Assistant Director of the Strait Herald and a member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), discussed strategies used to influence young Taiwanese as part of China’s “united front” tactics, Taipei Times reported.

The tactics include “incubating” young Taiwanese through Taiwan-related organisations and collaborating with small-scale influencers.

FBI makes its largest bomb bust on Virginia farm
The FBI uncovered more than 150 homemade bombs on a farm in Virginia in what is thought to be the largest such seizure in the agency’s history, according to court documents filed this week.
Agents found the explosives while searching the family home of 36-year-old Brad Spafford after being tipped off by a neighbor that he was stockpiling weapons and homemade ammunition.

A court document filed Monday said Spafford, who works at a machine shop, had used pictures of President Joe Biden for shooting target practice and expressed support for political assassinations.

Some explosives assessed as pipe bombs were found in a backpack in a bedroom on the property, which Spafford shares with his wife and two young children, the document said.

It added that Spafford’s freezer contained a jar of HMTD — a “highly unstable” explosive device — stored alongside food and labeled “Do Not Touch.”

His home also had a notebook of “recipes” for making explosives including grenades, according to the filing.

A neighbor told FBI agents that Spafford had discussed fortifying his property with “a 360-degree turret for a 50-caliber firearm on the roof.”

Prosecutors said Spafford, who has been charged with unlawful possession of a rifle, would likely face additional charges over the explosives, which each carry a maximum sentence of ten years of imprisonment.

In a separate filing on Tuesday, Spafford’s attorneys defended him as “a hard-working family man with no criminal record” while arguing for him to be released from custody.

US imposes sanctions on Russian, Iranian entities over attempt to influence presidential elections
The United States Treasury on Tuesday (local time) imposed new sanctions on Iranian and Russian entities accused of attempting to influence the US 2024 presidential election.
The entities are accused of using artificial intelligence to spread false information in an attempt to influence the US elections, The Washington Post reported.

The US Treasury, in an official statement, announced that it was imposing sanctions on both a subsidiary of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and an affiliate of Russia’s military intelligence agency over their efforts to “stoke socio political tensions and influence the U.S. electorate during the 2024 election.”

The Treasury also alleged that the Russian entity used AI tools to “quickly create disinformation that would be distributed across a massive network” of fake news websites and produced “baseless accusations” about a 2024 vice-presidential candidate, The Washington Post reported.

The sanctions targeted minor entities, which are unlikely to have major economic effects on both countries. However, these sanctions mark another step backward in the already deteriorating relationship between Russia and Iran.

“The Governments of Iran and Russia have targeted our election processes and institutions and sought to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns,” Bradley Smith, Treasury’s acting undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a statement, while adding, “The United States will remain vigilant against adversaries who would undermine our democracy.”

According to The Washington Post, the Treasury imposed sanctions on the Center for Geopolitical Expertise (CGE), a Moscow-based group funded by Aleksandr Dugin. The Treasury had already sanctioned the group in 2015.

The Treasury accused CGE of working with the Russian military intelligence service that “oversees sabotage, political interference operations, and cyberwarfare” against the West.

In its statement, the Treasury said the intelligence service both directed and provided financial support to the center to influence the 2024 presidential election. With that support, Treasury said, the center maintained a network of “at least 100 websites” for its “disinformation operations,” through which it pushed false information.

“CGE and its personnel used generative AI tools to quickly create disinformation that would be distributed across a massive network of websites designed to imitate legitimate news outlets to create false corroboration between the stories, as well as to obfuscate their Russian origin,” the Treasury statement said.

The sanctions also targeted Cognitive Design Production Center, a subsidiary of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, over its “influence operations.”

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🚨 PAWS Airdrop Listing Date: What to Expect? 🚨 – Binance

The long-awaited PAWS airdrop listing date is finally approaching! As snapshots are revealed today, excitement is building for one of the most anticipated dog-themed cryptos of 2024, PAWS Token. With the Token Generation Event (TGE) and airdrop events delayed, the crypto community is eager to see how the token launch will unfold at the start of 2025.

Let’s dive into the details about PAWS token price expectations, airdrop distribution, and everything you need to know! 👇

The team hasn’t officially announced a listing price, leaving room for speculation.

Based on comparisons with similar meme coins like DOGS, estimates suggest the price could range between $0.0072 and $0.0078.

User adoption and demand.

Total supply of PAWS tokens.

While initial guesses are exciting, actual pricing will become clearer after the TGE and token allocation updates.

After months of waiting, things are finally falling into place!

The PAWS snapshot is set for today, December 30, 2024, to determine how many tokens users will receive during the airdrop.

Active users of the PAWS mini-app on Telegram.

Completion of simple tasks to earn PAWS points.

Connection of TON wallets before the snapshot to ensure token receipt.

Official listing date for the airdrop.

Details about total token supply and percentage distribution.

The team encourages users to stay updated via the mini-app for the latest announcements.

Crypto airdrops are more than just free tokens; they’re a gateway to community engagement and early profit opportunities. Here’s why investors are so hyped:

Free Token Distribution: Users earn rewards for completing simple tasks.

Profit Potential: With an estimated price of ~$0.007, early holders could see significant returns depending on market momentum.

Trend in Dog-Themed Cryptos: Similar projects like Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) experienced last-minute changes but still rallied post-launch.

1. Final PAWS Token Allocation: Ensure your tasks and wallet connection are complete for maximum eligibility.

2. Market Sentiment Post-TGE: Track updates to gauge demand and trading opportunities.

3. Potential Price Swings: Dog-themed cryptos are known for volatile price movements.

The PAWS listing is a potential game-changer for meme coin enthusiasts. With the community eagerly waiting for clarity on distribution and pricing, 2025 could kick off with a bang for PAWS holders.

🚀 Stay connected for updates and don’t forget to complete all tasks to secure your spot in the airdrop.

#BinanceAlphaAlert #BTCXmasOrDip? #BTCMiningPeak #SolvProtocolMegadrop

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Law enforcement encouraging safe New Year's Eve celebrations – KFSN-TV

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Local law enforcement is hoping your New Year's plans include having a sober ride, but in case it isn't on the list they're on the lookout.
"We're going to be out there to make sure that we remove those impaired drivers from the road before they hurt and kill somebody because really that's the number one concern for us to make it to the New Year as healthy as possible," said California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Salas.
They want to remind you that impaired driving is not just from alcohol it can also include certain prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana.
Our local officers urge you to have a sober driver or use a ride-share service if you plan on going out.
"It is a night of celebration and we want people to have fun and celebrate, the new year, the incoming new years," said Fresno Police Sgt. Todd Turney.
"So, be with your friends, families and celebrate those, but make good decisions and plan ahead."
First-time offenders will be charged with a DUI, fined up to $13,500, and have their license suspended.
It's not just drivers that aw enforcement is concerned about.
"Bells and whistles, pots and pans, but the one thing I do not want you to do is to step outside your house with a loaded gun and start cranking rounds off into the air," said Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke. "Folks have a tendency to forget that gravity will take effect and those bullets are gonna come down."
Each year, Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke says his office receives calls of people firing guns and damaging homes when the bullets come down and he's told his deputies to take action.
"If we catch anybody doing it, they will go to jail," said Warnke. "Have this be a time of celebration. Don't end your day in my jail or in my morgue."
In 2021, just moments after the clock struck midnight a woman was hit by a stray bullet that fell from the sky in Fresno and started the year in the hospital she did survive.
Warnke also reminds residents not to use illegal fireworks to celebrate.
Those who are caught will be cited and can face steep fines.
The Fresno Police Department is continuing patrols until 2 am and the CHP will be patrolling all day on the first.
For news updates, follow Kate Nemarich on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Hannah Berner clarifies Blake Lively joke amid backlash over Netflix comedy special – The Express Tribune

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Hannah Berner defends Netflix roast joke about Blake Lively, addressing timing concerns and public criticism.
Comedian Hannah Berner has addressed the controversy surrounding her joke about actress Blake Lively, made during Netflix's Torching 2024: A Roast of a Year. The special, featuring comedians Jeff Ross and Tim Dillon, included Berner’s commentary on several celebrities, but her quip about Lively attracted widespread criticism. The joke coincided with Lively’s ongoing legal battle against co-star Justin Baldoni, leading many to interpret it as insensitive.
Berner’s joke referenced a trending term, lightly poking fun at Lively. However, the timing of the joke, amid Lively’s lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and a smear campaign, sparked backlash. Baldoni and his attorney, Bryan Freedman, have called the allegations “false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious.”
Criticism quickly mounted online, with some fans of Berner’s Giggle Squad podcast expressing disappointment. One Instagram user commented, "Why do you have to be so mean and crass to other women? It’s giving ‘pick me’ energy."
In response, Berner clarified on social media that her joke was filmed before news of the lawsuit broke. "To be 100 percent clear, I support Blake xoxo," she stated, emphasizing her respect for Lively and denying any intent to exploit the situation.
Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni alleges disruptions to their film It Ends With Us due to his alleged behavior, while Baldoni has countersued, accusing Lively of damaging his reputation. The ongoing legal drama adds weight to the backlash Berner faced, as many saw her joke as poorly timed.
This incident underscores the challenges comedians face in addressing high-profile figures entangled in personal and legal controversies, highlighting the fine line between humor and sensitivity.
 
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Six movies to watch this New Year – The Kathmandu Post

Brooklyn

Director: John Crowley
Year: 2015
The movie is about reinventing oneself and finding where you belong. As the main character, Eilis Lacey leaves Ireland for New York, she embraces the unknown. This film portrays the struggles and success of her new life in a foreign land, making it a perfect watch for a season of new beginnings.
At its heart, ‘Brooklyn’ is a story of resilience and love. Through a romance built on trust, patience, and genuine connection, we see how Eilis and Tony blend their cultures. Their relationship stands out for its authenticity. Tony’s unwavering support, mainly seen in his heartfelt letters while waiting for her to return, shows his devotion.
The final moments of Eilis’s return to Tony and their embrace remind us of the value of enduring love. John Crowley captures the bittersweet reality of leaving home while highlighting the universal human experience of finding connection and purpose. The gentle storytelling leaves the viewer with a sense of hope and warmth.
You’ve Got Mail
Director: Nora Ephron
Year: 1998

It’s a classic rom-com which celebrates new connections and life’s unpredictability. The viewers see the promising relationship between Kathleen and Joe, reminding us that love and understanding can flourish surprisingly.
The charm of ‘You’ve Got Mail’ lies in its timeless portrayal of romance, witty dialogue, and warm humour—most of which is inspired by the movie ‘Godfather’. Set in bookstores and cosy New York streets, it offers a comforting escape from cold winter days.
Nora Ephron smoothly navigates the division between traditional romance and the rising digital world of the late 1990s. Her smart script and the emotional depth of the characters highlight the worth of genuine human connection.
Dulha Mil Gaya
Director: Mudassar Aziz
Year: 2010

This movie is about navigating changes and learning to live authentically. Like every Bollywood movie, it features colours, music, and larger-than-life characters full of positivity and energy, setting a perfect tone for the year ahead.
This film stands out for its layered portrayal of relationships and its message of empowerment. The viewers see the relationship between Shimmer and Samarpreet characters, where one woman empowers the other to embrace her true self. Equally compelling is the long-distance relationship between Shimmer and Pawan Raj Character, which adds depth to the story.
The director combines humour and emotion, highlighting personal growth through relationships.
When Harry Met Sally
Director: Rob Reiner
Year: 1989

Only a few movies have captured the essence of relationships as beautifully as ‘When Harry Met Sally’. This film explores whether men and women can truly be ‘just friends’, making it both thought-provoking and heartwarming.
With its witty dialogue, iconic one-liners, and unforgettable moments—like Sally’s hilarious diner scene, this film is the gold standard of romantic comedies. It’s the kind of movie that reminds the viewers of the importance of honesty and showing imperfections and vulnerabilities in love.
The movie is made in collaboration with Rob Reiner and writer Nora Ephron, creating well-paced storytelling. The film structure, mixed with the interview scenes of fictional elderly couples, adds charm to the movie.
Tune In For Love
Director: Jung Ji-woo
Year: 2019
‘Tune in for Love’ is a beautifully crafted movie about unexpected luck and enduring love. It is not a story of instant gratification or fleeting passion; it’s about two souls reconnecting time and again and rebuilding their relationship on trust.
The viewers enjoy the slow-burn romance in quiet gestures and meaningful conversations, which stands out from today’s fast-paced love stories. One of the most touching aspects of the film is the constant hope that lingers between the characters, especially when they are separated. The radio broadcast scene that unites Mi-su and Hyeon-u over time represents a sense of continuity and nostalgia.
Director Jung Ji-woo shows how life’s obstacles shape relationships. Through Mi-su and Hyeon-u, we see the complexities of life, love, and opportunities. It reminds us that good things take time and that love, when it’s real, always finds its way back.
Each of these films offers a unique take on renewal, relationships, and the joys of life. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, laughter, or heartfelt moments, these stories will uplift your spirits as you welcome the New Year.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Director: Ben Stiller
Year: 2013
The New Year inspires us to step out of our comfort zones, and Walter Mitty’s journey is the perfect reminder of what happens when we dare to dream. This adventure movie encourages viewers to embrace the extraordinary and see the world with fresh eyes.
Walter Mitty’s transformation from a coward dreamer to a bold adventurer is truly amazing. The viewers can observe the breathtaking visuals and elevating soundtrack, which adds to the emotional impact and makes them feel ready to conquer their fears and challenges.
Ben Stiller’s direction highlights the balance between reality and imagination. Through visually stunning sequences and heartfelt storytelling, he stresses the beauty of stepping out into the unknown and seizing life’s opportunities.
Aarya Chand is a culture and lifestyle intern at the post covering mental health, lifestyle, and skincare issues. She is also a psychology and literature student.

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