The wedding of the year: Asia’s richest man’s son ties the knot
MUMBAI, India (AP) — Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, Asia’s richest man, recently married his longtime girlfriend in a lavish ceremony that has captured global attention. The wedding, held at the Ambani-owned Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, was attended by a host of celebrities, business magnates, and politicians, underlining the family’s immense wealth and influence. The ceremonies, starting from exchanging garlands to walking around the sacred fire, commenced on Friday and concluded well past midnight. Prominent guests included former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Boris Johnson, Saudi Aramco CEO Amin H. Nasser, and celebrities like Adele, Lana Del Rey, Drake, and David Beckham.
Sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer passes away at age 96
NEW YORK (AP) — Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the pioneering sex therapist known for her candid discussions on intimate topics, has died at the age of 96. Through her work, Westheimer encouraged open conversations on once-taboo subjects, reassuring her millions of followers that there was no shame in discussing such matters. Her unique approach, characterized by her distinct giggle and German accent, made her a household name in sexual education. Westheimer passed away at her home in New York City, surrounded by loved ones.
Griff: Rising star in the music industry with debut album “Vertigo”
British singer-songwriter Griff has quickly risen to fame in the music industry. Her career milestones include winning the Brit Award for Rising Star and opening for renowned artists like Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, and Taylor Swift. Amidst her busy schedule, Griff managed to work on her debut album, “Vertigo,” which delves into the emotional journey she has experienced as a new artist. The album is now available for fans to enjoy.
LL Cool J returns to the music scene with new album “The FORCE”
NEW YORK (AP) — LL COOL J, the renowned rapper and actor, is set to release his first album in 11 years titled “The FORCE” on Sept. 6. With over 40 years in the hip-hop industry, LL COOL J collaborated with Q-Tip to produce the album, inspired by a dream involving A Tribe Called Quest’s Phife Dawg. He aims to demonstrate that veteran rappers can continue to make significant contributions to modern hip-hop.
Curator of Australian gallery confesses to painting Picassos at center of a gender discrimination dispute
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The curator of an Australian art museum recently revealed that she painted three works attributed to Pablo Picasso, sparking a gender discrimination controversy. Kirsha Kaechele confessed that the paintings displayed at the Museum of Old and New Art in Tasmania were her creations, not Picasso’s. The paintings, part of an exhibition called the Ladies Lounge, have been on view for several years, leading to questions from the Picasso Administration about their authenticity.
NYC beach surveillance drones face opposition from shorebirds
NEW YORK (AP) — A new initiative to monitor New York City beaches with surveillance drones has faced unexpected resistance from shorebirds. The drones have been targeted by birds, particularly American oystercatchers, causing disruptions to the program. Wildlife experts warn that the drones’ presence could trigger stress in the birds, especially for endangered species like piping plovers.
Serena Williams hosts ESPY awards celebrating women’s sports
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The ESPYS, hosted by Serena Williams, honored the achievements of women in sports. Leading athletes like Simone Biles, A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Dawn Staley, and JuJu Watkins were recognized at the event. Despite technical glitches during the live broadcast, Serena Williams entertained viewers with jokes and a musical performance.
Shelley Duvall, star of classic films, passes away at 75
Texas-born actress Shelley Duvall, known for her roles in Robert Altman and Stanley Kubrick films, has died at the age of 75. Her partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed her passing due to complications from diabetes. Duvall’s career took off after she was discovered by Altman’s team in the 1970s, leading to iconic roles in films like “The Shining.”
Japan’s Kabuki star Danjuro Ichikawa challenges traditional roles
TOKYO (AP) — Danjuro Ichikawa, a prominent figure in Japan’s Kabuki theater, is redefining traditional roles in his latest production. Playing multiple characters in a single performance, Ichikawa showcases his versatility on stage. While maintaining his mastery of Kabuki techniques, Ichikawa is exploring ways to modernize the art form and appeal to contemporary audiences.
Turkish TV dramas boost country’s global influence and tourism
ISTANBUL (AP) — Turkey’s television drama industry has become a key export, portraying the country’s cultural and historical heritage to a global audience. The popularity of Turkish series has led to increased tourism and a rise in soft power for Turkey on the international stage. Shows like “Dizilah” have gained massive followings in countries like the United States, Canada, Greece, India, and Pakistan, highlighting universal themes of family, friendship, and love.
