ASIA

SANAE TAKAICHI SET TO BECOME JAPAN'S FIRST FEMALE PRIME MINISTER

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Japan is on the verge of a historic political moment as Sanae Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), stands set to become the nation's first female prime minister. The parliamentary vote follows days of negotiations between the LDP and the right-leaning Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), culminating in a coalition deal that all but guarantees her confirmation.

THE WORLD'S BIGGEST MOON PARTY: INSIDE THE MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL'S MAGIC AND MYTHS

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It's not an exaggeration to call the Mid-Autumn Festival the world's largest full moon party. Celebrated across East and Southeast Asia, it's a time when families gather to light lanterns, share mooncakes, and admire what's believed to be the roundest moon of the year. In 2025, the festival falls on October 6, and you can bet on an abundance of mooncakes, pomelos, and traditional feasts.

GOOGLE ANNOUNCES $15 BILLION AI DATA CENTER HUB IN INDIA, ITS BIGGEST INVESTMENT OUTSIDE THE U.S.

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Google has unveiled plans to invest $15 billion over five years to establish a major artificial intelligence and cloud data center hub in Andhra Pradesh, India, marking its largest investment outside the United States.

SANAE TAKAICHI: JAPAN’S “IRON LADY” POISED TO MAKE HISTORY AS FIRST FEMALE PRIME MINISTER

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After two failed attempts, Sanae Takaichi has finally realized her long-held ambition to lead Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) — and with it, to stand on the brink of history. On October 4, 2025, coinciding with the LDP’s 70^th anniversary, the 64-year-old politician was elected party leader, putting her on course to become Japan’s first female prime minister once parliament confirms her appointment on October 15.

THE 700-YEAR TRADITION THAT CELEBRATES GROOMS WITH FEASTS

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In southern India, a centuries-old tradition has survived the test of time through the language of food and love. The Puyyappla Perukkal translated as "nurturing the son-in-law" is a remarkable custom practiced among the Mappila Muslim community of Thalassery, Kerala. For over 700 years, grooms have been treated like royalty, living with their new in-laws while their mother-in-law prepares up to 100 unique dishes over forty days. It is a celebration of family, unity, and respect, where culinary artistry meets cultural devotion.

INDIA CELEBRATES DUSSEHRA WITH GRANDEUR AND DEVOTION

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Millions of Indians are immersed in festivities as Dussehra, one of Hinduism's most significant celebrations, lights up the nation with vibrant rituals, theatrical performances, and joyous gatherings. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Dussehra honors Lord Ram's victory over the ten-headed demon king Ravan, symbolizing the timeless triumph of good over evil.

NBA TO RETURN TO CHINA FOR PRE-SEASON GAMES AFTER SIX-YEAR HIATUS

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The NBA returns to the lucrative China market this week with two pre-season games following a six-year absence after a team official tweeted his support for pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

INDIA POLICE FILE CASE AGAINST ACTOR-POLITICIAN VIJAY'S PARTY AFTER STAMPEDE KILLS 39

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Police in India registered a criminal case against leaders of Tamil actor Vijay's political party after a stampede at his rally killed 39 people, a senior police official said on Sunday.