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Dhurandhar crosses USD 5 million mark in North America

Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar is a box office hit. The film earned over USD 5.25 million in North America in just eight days. This makes it the fourth highest-grossing Indian film of the year. Dhurandhar had a strong opening and maintained good momentum. Its second Friday collection was a record for an Indian film.

Zubeen Garg's wife: 'Want guilty to be punished'

Assam Police's SIT has filed a chargesheet against seven individuals in the death of singer Zubeen Garg, who reportedly drowned in Singapore. The charges include murder, criminal conspiracy, and negligence. Garg's wife welcomed the probe, expressing faith in the judicial process for justice. Singapore police are conducting a separate investigation.

Dhurandhar beats War 2 to become 6th biggest hit of 2025

Ranveer Singh's 'Dhurandhar' is a box office sensation, crossing Rs 239.25 crore in just eight days and surpassing 'War 2'. The film's strong opening and remarkable weekday consistency have propelled it to become the 6th biggest hit of 2025. Experts predict 'Dhurandhar' will soon challenge for the third spot, solidifying its status as a dominant cinematic success.

Saudi Arabia partners with US company to launch urban air taxi operations

Saudi Arabia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US based Archer Aviation to develop and launch VTOL air taxis in major cities. The partnership aims to establish safety regulations, test flights, and infrastructure, aligning with FAA standards. This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s strategy to transform urban travel, reduce commute times, and lead in advanced air mobility.

10 Weirdest Christmas Traditions Of The World That Will Leave You Stunned

Christmas is often imagined as a cosy celebration filled with decorated trees, gift exchanges, carols, and hearty family meals. Yet beyond familiar customs lies a fascinating world of festive traditions that are anything but ordinary. Across continents and cultures, Christmas has evolved into a celebration shaped by folklore, history, superstition, and local identity. From roller-skating to church services to festive rituals involving brooms, witches, and even logs that “deliver” gifts, these traditions challenge everything we think we know about the holiday season. ALSO READ: Christmas Eve 2025: Know All About The Timeless Tradition Of Midnight Mass 1. Japan (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In Japan, Christmas dinner looks nothing like the traditional roast enjoyed elsewhere. Instead, fried chicken takes centre stage, thanks to a decades-old marketing campaign that transformed a fast-food meal into a festive icon. With ovens in Japanese homes typically too small for roasting large birds, fried chicken emerged as a convenient alternative. Over time, it became a symbolic Christmas treat rather than a practical choice. Weeks before the holiday, families pre-book special festive meals featuring carefully packaged chicken, side dishes, and desserts. Restaurants decorate their storefronts with holiday-themed displays, turning fried chicken into an event rather than a meal. 2. Norway (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In Norway, Christmas Eve carries a supernatural undertone rooted in ancient folklore. Traditionally, people believed that spirits and witches became active during the darkest nights of winter. Since brooms were thought to be the preferred mode of transport for these beings, households began hiding them before bedtime. This symbolic act was meant to protect homes from unwanted visitors and ensure peace throughout the festive night. While few Norwegians take the belief literally today, the ritual continues as a nod to tradition. 3. Venezuela (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In parts of Venezuela, attending early morning Christmas services involves wheels rather than walking shoes. In the days leading up to Christmas, communities gather for special dawn prayers, travelling to churches on roller skates. The tradition is so popular that roads are temporarily closed to keep worshippers safe. Some families even sleep with a string tied to a toe and the other end attached to a bedpost, believing it will wake them if skaters pass by. 4. Austria (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Austria’s Christmas season introduces a frightening contrast to festive cheer in the form of Krampus, a horned figure rooted in Alpine folklore. Representing punishment rather than reward, Krampus is believed to discipline misbehaving children. During December, towns host processions where participants dress as the creature, parading through streets with bells, masks, and dramatic costumes. Though intimidating, the event is largely theatrical today, drawing crowds fascinated by its theatrical edge. This tradition highlights how fear and folklore coexist with celebration in many cultural narratives. 5. Spain (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Catalonia’s Christmas customs are among Europe’s most eccentric. One involves a decorated log that is “fed” daily until Christmas Eve, when families encourage it to release gifts through rhythmic tapping and singing. Another features humorous figurines hidden within nativity scenes. Far from being offensive, these traditions symbolise fertility, renewal, and good fortune. 6. Sweden (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Sweden’s Christmas landscape often includes massive straw goats, especially in the town of Gavle. Inspired by ancient Norse symbolism, the goat represents harvest and protection. Built annually, the towering structure has become internationally famous, partly due to repeated attempts to burn it down. Despite protective measures, its survival has become a seasonal guessing game. The tradition blends ancient mythology with modern spectacle, turning a simple symbol into a global talking point. 7. Ukraine (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Ukrainian Christmas trees often feature shimmering spider webs, inspired by folklore about luck and transformation. According to legend, a poor family’s web turned silver overnight, symbolising hope and reward. Today, artificial webs honour this story and represent prosperity for the coming year. The tradition blends storytelling with festive decor, turning an unlikely symbol into one of beauty and meaning. 8. Portugal (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In Portugal, Christmas meals sometimes include symbolic gestures to honour deceased relatives. Families may set extra places at the table or leave food offerings, believing this brings blessings and protection. This deeply spiritual practice transforms Christmas dinner into a moment of remembrance, connecting generations through shared traditions and respect for ancestry. 9. Czech Republic (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In Czech households, Christmas Eve includes a playful ritual for unmarried women. A shoe is tossed over the shoulder, and its landing position determines romantic prospects for the coming year. While light-hearted, the custom reflects enduring beliefs about fate and future, adding anticipation and fun to the holiday. 10. Germany (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) In parts of Germany, a glass pickle ornament is hidden among Christmas decorations. Whoever finds it first receives good fortune or an extra gift. Though playful, the tradition encourages interaction and excitement, turning decoration into a festive game that brings families together.

Kancha Ad Is Back! Maruti Suzuki Revives 1990s Nostalgia To Promote eVitara

Maruti Suzuki has dipped deep into its advertising legacy to introduce its newest electric SUV, the eVitara, reviving memories that many Indians grew up with. In a rare and calculated move, the automaker has reimagined one of its most iconic 1990s commercials—the one featuring the wide-eyed boy Kancha—reworking it for an era defined by electric mobility. The result is a campaign that feels both familiar and forward-looking, striking an emotional chord while delivering a sharp strategic message. In an industry where electric vehicles are often marketed through futuristic imagery and technical jargon, Maruti has chosen a different route: reassurance through recall. A Familiar Face From A Different Era At the heart of the campaign is actor Manish Choudhary, who returns to the screen after nearly 27 years to reprise his role in the legendary advertisement. His presence lends credibility and emotional weight, reminding viewers of a time when Maruti symbolised reliability and nationwide reach. For many, the commercial instantly evokes childhood memories, long road trips, and the reassurance that help was never too far away. The original advertisement had become iconic for its simplicity. Two travellers ask Kancha about basic facilities, receiving a consistent head shake. When asked about a Maruti service station, he nods confidently. That single gesture became shorthand for trust and accessibility—values the brand carefully preserved in the remake.           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Marketing Maverick | Business | Branding (@marketingmaverick.in) Turning Legacy Into A Competitive Advantage What truly sets the campaign apart is how Maruti has paired nostalgia with a practical EV strategy. Instead of announcing grand plans for a new charging infrastructure, the company has quietly converted its existing sales and service network into EV charging points. This instantly gives Maruti one of the most widespread charging ecosystems in the country. The recreated commercial mirrors the original almost shot for shot. The difference lies in the conclusion: the final question now revolves around electric vehicle charging. Kancha’s familiar nod delivers a powerful message—Maruti’s reach hasn’t changed, only the technology has. This approach allows the company to address one of the biggest concerns around EV adoption in India: charging anxiety. By tying solutions to an already trusted network, Maruti positions itself as a safe and dependable choice in the evolving mobility landscape. Bridging The Past and Electric Future The eVitara campaign demonstrates how legacy brands can stay relevant without abandoning their roots. Maruti isn’t simply launching an electric SUV; it is reinforcing continuity. The ad reminds audiences that while the roads, vehicles, and fuels may change, the brand’s promise remains intact.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Funds IPO subscribed 72% on opening day

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund's massive Rs 10,600-crore IPO saw robust demand on its opening day, with institutional investors oversubscribing their portion. While high net worth and retail investors showed moderate interest, the IPO is set to close on December 16. Prudential Corp Holdings is divesting a significant stake in this offering.

Dhurandhar fails to beat Simmba on 2nd Friday

Dhurandhar is maintaining a strong box office presence, nearing Ranveer Singh's second-highest grossing film status. Despite a slight miss on its second Friday against Simmba's collection, the film's consistent weekday performance and a projected Saturday surge are set to secure its position. The action-packed narrative and stellar cast have propelled its success.

Haryana ties up with World Bank to cut pollution

Haryana has launched its most ambitious environmental initiative, the 'Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development,' in collaboration with the World Bank, with a Rs 3,600 crore corpus. This project aims to significantly improve air quality over five years through sweeping interventions, including industrial upgrades, e-bus procurement, and enhanced monitoring infrastructure.

Rail ride to get better? IRCTC begins branded meal service trials on select trains; focus on freshness, hygiene

Indian Railways is piloting a new on-board catering model, separating meal preparation from service. IRCTC is partnering with established food brands and industrial kitchens to supply fresh, hygienic meals on select Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. Initial passenger feedback is positive, with trials focusing on improving meal quality and offering diverse, restaurant-style menus.