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Ukraine’s Neptune Missiles Strike Novorossiysk Port, Damaging Key Russian Infrastructure

  Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy awards a Ukrainian serviceman while he visits a command position of the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade 'Velykyi Luh' at a front line, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine November 13, 2025. Ukrainian forces carried out a significant overnight strike on Russia’s Black Sea port of Novorossiysk , using domestically produced Neptune cruise missiles . The attack, which took place on the night of November 13–14, 2025 , targeted strategic military and energy facilities in the port city of Krasnodar Krai. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, the strike damaged valuable port infrastructure , including the Sheskharis oil terminal , a launcher from Russia’s S-400 air defense system , and a missile storage site. The latter reportedly detonated, causing fires across the port area. Video footage and reports confirmed that drones accompanied the missile barrage, amplifying the destruction. President Volodymyr ...

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Diwali: Illuminating the Triumph of Light Over Darkness

                                            People admire oil lamps outside Ahmedabad, India, on Oct. 19. 

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across the world. Often called the Festival of Lights, it spans five days of joy, devotion, and togetherness. The word Deepavali comes from Sanskrit, meaning “row of lights,” symbolized by the glowing clay lamps (diyas) that adorn homes, temples, and streets during the celebration.

Why is Diwali celebrated?
The reasons vary across regions and faiths, but the essence remains the same: the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

  • In northern India, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, with people lighting lamps to welcome him home.
  • In western India, it marks the day Lord Vishnu banished the demon king Bali to the underworld.
  • For Hindus across India, it also honors Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
  • Jains celebrate Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira attained spiritual liberation, while Sikhs observe it as Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment.

How is it celebrated?
The festival is filled with rituals and festivities:

  • Lighting diyas and candles to invite positivity.
  • Decorating homes with rangoli (colorful floor art).
  • Sharing sweets and gifts with loved ones.
  • Fireworks and community gatherings.
  • Prayers and offerings to deities for prosperity and well-being.

A global celebration
Though rooted in Hindu tradition, Diwali has transcended borders. Today, it is celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, from India to Canada, the UK, the US, and beyond. It’s not just a religious festival but also a cultural event that brings communities together in joy and reflection.

At its heart, Diwali is more than just lights and fireworks—it’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and goodness can shine through.


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