Latest news with #Ka
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Jaw-dropping vid shows crowds join unbelievably huge queue to grab viral Labubu dolls as craze sweeps across the world
JAW-DROPPING footage shows crowds join a ginormous queue to get their hands on the viral Labubu dolls from a new Pop Mart store in Berlin. The bizarre furry figurines - made popular by the Chinese toy company - have caused shoppers to go into a frenzy in recent months. 7 7 7 7 With their bunny ears and creepy smiles, Labubu dolls have surged in popularity since being spotted on the bags of celebrities including Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Olivia Attwood and Gemma Collins - and even David Beckham. The doll hype has since reached a global scale, with footage showing an hours-long, snaking queue in Berlin. One video captures crowds desperate to get their hands on the viral furry figurines waiting in what initially looks to be a never-ending line. The queue extends all the way around a block, and just when you think it's over, it snakes down another street before stretching around another building. Some people are even seen sitting down or lounging up against the metal barriers, presumably because they had been waiting for a long period of time to get their hands on the dolls. The caption on the video jokes: "This ain't a concert... It's Labubu in Berlin." A brand new Pop Mart has just opened in the German city, attracting Labubu fans to the store. The Chinese toy company's popularity has soared, with the retailer even surpassing Russian energy giant Gazprom in market value. The fluffy Labubu figurines have large, toothy smiles and claw-like feet. Created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the vinyl figures are sold in £17.50 "blind boxes". And this appears to be part of the appeal, as fans have no idea which version they are getting - therefore making them a collectable. I found Labubus at my local Centra and now I have a huge collection CELEB APPEAL Former England footy captain David Beckham revealed that his daughter Harper, 13, had bought him one, showing off a snap of a rare 'secret' edition character. Kim Kardashian posted a shot of her collection, while former Love Island star Olivia went further by having a Labubu-themed birthday party. Rihanna was also pictured sporting one on a Louis Vuitton handbag in LA. The brand made its debut in 2015, but skyrocketed in global popularity after hitting Pop Mart shelves in 2019. The first three months of 2025 were wildly successful for the brand, with Brits searching high and low to nab one of the quirky figurines. Since opening stores in London and Manchester over the last 12 months, Labubu dolls have become cult collectibles among grown British women. What are Labubu dolls and why have they gone viral? LABUBU is a brand of plushies designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung and loved by celebrities like Olivia Attwood, Dua Lipa and Rihanna. The brand made its debut in 2015, but skyrocketed in global popularity after hitting Pop Mart shelves in 2019. Pop Mart is a Chinese toy retailer, known for its collectible designer models that are often sold in a blind box format, meaning you don't know what you've got until you've opened it. After mammoth success overseas, the Labubu craze has now made its way to the UK. The first three months of 2025 were wildly successful for the brand, with Brits searching high and low to nab one of the quirky figurines. Since opening stores in London and Manchester over the last 12 months, Labubu dolls have become cult collectibles among grown British women. Labubus come in an array of vibrant colours, unique shapes and various sizes, spanning from plush toys to striking vinyl figures. They come as little toys you can hook on your handbag, as well as mega-sized figures and quirky home decorations. 7 7
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Plastics remain top choice for Hanoi food and beverage shops
HANOI (VNExpress): Most Hanoi coffee shops continue to use plastic to serve customers, not wanting to spend extra money on environmentally friendly materials. Within 30 minutes in the morning at a busy coffee shop on Pham Van Bach Street, around 100 drinks were served, almost all in plastic cups. The practice is common at most food and beverage businesses, who use plastic straws, cups and bags. These contribute to the 1,400 tons of plastic waste discharged in Hanoi daily, 60% of it single-use items, according to the city government. Plastic bags, meanwhile, are typically not recycled because they get contaminated easily and offer little profit for scrap collectors, who can earn more from a single shampoo bottle than dozens of bags. Plastic pollution poses a significant challenge for Vietnam and other countries. Leaked plastic waste contaminates the soil, air, water, and sediments in lakes, rivers, and seas, eventually entering the human food chain. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh wants to turn the situation around. In a recent directive, he ordered Hanoi to trial a ban on single-use plastics in eateries, hotels, beverage outlets, and within Ring Road 1, which goes around the Sword Lake and West Lake to encircle a core area of the city. The initiative will begin in the fourth quarter this year and be expanded in subsequent years. Before the directive some food and beverage businesses had already begun transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives. Hoang Tung, chairman of F&B Investment, which operates six Pizza Home and Com Ga 68 (chicken rice) outlets, said their takeout packaging includes cups, lids, straws, boxes, plastic bags, and utensils. Paper boxes and wooden spoons and forks have replaced plastic items, but scaling up the initiative is challenging since wooden spoons and forks cost four times more. A 360ml biodegradable plastic cup with lid costs over VND2,000 (7 U.S. cents), seven times that of the popular plastic polypropylene (PP). Cheaper plastic items flood the market thanks to their dirt-cheap prices. Environment-friendly items have also proven to be less popular with customers. Tung said paper straws often soften or clog if used too long, and paper bags lack the durability plastic provides, especially for distant deliveries. These issues have plagued businesses like One Kitchen and the Ka coffee chain. Despite using paper boxes, cups and bags, One Kitchen still relies on plastic bags for most deliveries and takeaways. Vu Truong Giang, founder of Ka, said: "We haven't found a viable alternative to plastic bags for takeout, though switching to paper cups was easier." Plastic manufacturer Hunufa's management acknowledged that fully biodegradable plastic bags, unlike those mixed with petroleum-based plastics, do not match the durability of non-degradable plastics despite costing five to seven times more. The company has halted production of these bags due to low demand, only making them now in case of specific orders. "We're researching ways to reduce costs and improve the functionality of eco-friendly products to better compete with plastics," Nguyen Hong Vu, its CEO, said. But transitions require time, he said. "Alternative solutions will only gain traction when they address cost and convenience sustainably." - VNExpress
News18
4 days ago
- Business
- News18
Horoscope Today, July 26, 2025: Leo Leads, Virgo Reflects, All Zodiac Signs Ahead
Last Updated: Horoscope Today, July 26, 2025: Aries finds peace, Taurus gains stability, Cancer trusts instincts, and Virgo brings clarity — read all zodiac predictions now. Horoscope Today, July 26, 2025: Every day is special and unique. Every day brings with it new challenges and opportunities. To be prepared for the challenges and events coming today, you can get information by reading today's horoscope (Aaj Ka Rashifal). Aries will get mental peace. Taurus is likely to improve the financial condition of Taurus. Gemini should avoid unnecessary expenses. Cancer should listen to their inner voice and move forward with a positive attitude. Leo will move strongly towards their goals. Virgo will increase cooperation and harmony in the workplace. Libra is a sign of new opportunities and positive changes. Scorpios will be able to express their thoughts and feelings. Sagittarius will open the doors of new possibilities for them. Capricorns will strengthen their relationship with colleagues. Aquarius will get a good chance to make new contacts. Pisces will be able to express their feelings. Aries Horoscope Today Ganesha says this day will be full of new possibilities and energy for you. Today, you will feel more confident, which will help you move towards your goals. Your thoughts will be clear and purposeful, which will help you achieve success in your tasks. Spending time with family and friends will give you mental peace. This is the time to share good moments. In terms of health, keep in mind to avoid over-stimulation and give priority to your mental health. Take some time to meditate or do yoga. Make full use of your confidence to move forward in all areas. Today is an encouraging day for you. Taurus Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will be a balanced and prosperous day for you. You will get new energy in your personal and professional life. This is the time to focus on matters that are important to you. Your thoughts will be clear and positive, which will enable you to work on new ideas and projects. Your financial situation is likely to improve. Move towards your goal with self-confidence, and success will kiss your feet. In terms of health, adding meditation and yoga to your routine will bring mental peace. Finally, today is the day to unleash your creativity and communication skills. Share your ideas and be open to new experiences. Gemini Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will bring many new possibilities and opportunities for you. There may be a special increase in your communication skills, which will allow you to express your ideas effectively. This is the time for you to make new connections and revive old friendships. Avoid unnecessary expenses and plan for the long term. Overall, today is a day to be alert and understand the energy around you. Try to take situations with ease. Remember, positivity will surround you, so keep your mind open and welcome new experiences. Lucky Number: 11 Lucky Colour: Orange Cancer Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will bring mixed experiences for you. You will experience happiness in the time spent with family, but some tasks may get interrupted. It will be necessary for you to maintain patience at work. In terms of health, adding meditation and yoga to your routine will bring mental peace. Finally, today is the day to unleash your creativity and communication skills. Share your ideas and be open to new experiences. Meditation and yoga can prove to be especially beneficial for you. So today is an opportunity for you to maintain a balance in terms of relationships, work, and health. Listen to your inner voice and move ahead with positivity. Leo Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will be full of positive energy. This is the time to increase your self-confidence, and you will move forward strongly towards your goals. Today you will feel inspired to do something new, be it a new art or a professional plan. You can use the opportunities that come your way properly, so move towards your goals without hesitation. This is the time to believe in yourself and recognize your abilities. Get adequate rest and take care of your mental health. Listen to your heart and move forward! Lucky Number: 13 Lucky Colour: Red Virgo Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will bring special opportunities for you. This is the time to self-analyze and focus on your goals. There will be clarity in your thoughts, which will help you in making decisions. Cooperation and harmony will increase in the workplace, which is a result of your hard work and dedication. Today, you need to keep your thoughts clear. Do not rush into making any decision. Self-reflection will be beneficial for you. Use this day properly and move forward with positivity. Libra Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will be a favorable day. There will be clarity in your thoughts, and you will be able to express your feelings in a better way. This is the right time to focus on new ideas and projects. A little exercise and meditation will help you gain mental stability. This is also the time to focus on your financial situation. Do not spend excessively and save a little for the future. Remember, today is a sign of new opportunities and positive changes. Have faith in your ability and keep moving forward. In terms of health, minor problems may occur, but do not ignore them. Lucky Number: 9 Lucky Colour: Green Scorpio Horoscope Today Ganesha says today is a day filled with lots of new opportunities and possibilities for Scorpios. You will be able to express your thoughts and feelings, which can bring positive changes in your relationships. Consider doing meditation or yoga to reduce stress. Maintaining mental peace is essential for your well-being. Taking decisions thoughtfully at this time will be more beneficial. Keep your desires balanced and move forward under a solid plan. There will be a wave of positivity in social life as well, which will enable you to make new contacts. Overall, today can bring positive changes for you. Lucky Number: 16 Lucky Colour: Sky Blue Sagittarius Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will open up new possibilities for you. Today, you will be inspired to embrace some new experiences in life. Your positive energy and enthusiasm will also inspire people around you. Work hard, as the fruits of your efforts will be seen soon. In terms of health, remain active. Participating in yoga or any sport will increase your energy. Pay attention to your mental health and take measures to reduce stress. Take advantage of this day, as it will open the door to new possibilities for you. Your positive attitude and enthusiasm will help you achieve success. Lucky Number: 12 Lucky Colour: Pink Capricorn Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will be full of opportunities for you. You will feel more dedicated and motivated towards your goals. The efforts you make at the workplace will be appreciated, and the relationship with your colleagues will be strengthened. Today, if you want to start a new project, then this is a good time. Your hard work and confidence will guide you. Do not hesitate to seek help from your colleagues; the secret of success lies in teamwork. Do not hesitate to express your feelings, because the conversations you have today will bring positive results. Most importantly, exercise self-restraint and try to understand the circumstances. Lucky Number: 4 Lucky Colour: Dark Green Aquarius Horoscope Today Ganesha says today will be a time of many new opportunities for you. You will feel a sense of freedom and innovation in your thinking. You will be more active in the social circle and will get a good chance to make new contacts. You will have a pleasant day, just remember to maintain positivity and move forward with humility. Do not hesitate to embrace new opportunities! Remember, your dedication and hard work will bring you the desired success. Keep moving towards your goals. Lucky Number: 2 Lucky Colour: Blue Pisces Horoscope Today Ganesha says today is a day of new beginnings for you. You will be able to express your feelings, and this will bring positive experiences for you. Harmony and understanding will increase in your relationships. You may get some new opportunities on this day, for which you should be open. Don't run away from chasing your dreams, because today the doors to new possibilities will open for you. Remember, today is going to open new possibilities for you. Just listen to your heart and move forward with positivity! top videos View all Lucky Number: 15 Lucky Colour: Black (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, More Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Chirag Daruwalla Daily Horoscope horoscope HOROSCOPE 2025 Horoscope today view comments Location : Mumbai, India, India First Published: July 26, 2025, 06:00 IST News astrology Horoscope Today, July 26, 2025: Leo Leads, Virgo Reflects, All Zodiac Signs Ahead Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Karnataka NEET UG 2025 counselling registration deadline extended to July 17: Check official notice and important details here
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has announced an extension for the registration deadline for the Karnataka National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Under Graduate (NEET UG) 2025 counselling. Candidates who have qualified for NEET UG 2025 can now submit their applications for the state counselling process by 11:00 AM on July 17, 2025. Aspiring candidates are advised to complete their registration on the official KEA website, This extension provides a crucial opportunity for eligible candidates to apply for admission into various medical, dental, and AYUSH courses offered by institutions in Karnataka. Karnataka NEET UG 2025 counselling registration : Key dates and process Candidates who wish to participate in the Karnataka NEET UG counselling 2025 must register on the official website before the extended deadline. The registration process requires applicants to fill in their details and make the necessary payment. Once registered, candidates who have not yet linked their NEET UG roll numbers can also do so through the portal. As per the official notice by KEA, candidates who successfully complete the registration process can proceed to the document verification stage. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Get ₹2Cr life cover@ ₹700 p.m. ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo The verification will take place from July 18 to July 19, 2025. All candidates must ensure they carry the necessary documents for this step. NEET UG 2025 counselling registration: Steps to complete process Candidates can follow the steps as given here to complete the registration process for NEET UG 2025 counselling: Step 1. Visit the official website at Step 2. New candidates must first create an account on the website by providing essential details. Step 3. Once logged in, complete the application form by entering their personal, academic, and details. Step 4. Pay the applicable registration fee. Step 5. Link your NEET UG roll number to the application. Step 6. After filling in all the details and completing the fee payment, submit the application form. Step 7. After successful registration, candidates are required to attend the document verification process between July 18 and July 19, 2025. The complete notification can be read here . NEET UG 2025 counselling: Available seats and admission process The Karnataka NEET UG 2025 counselling is being conducted for admissions into medical, dental, and AYUSH courses. The state is offering a total of 33,829 seats for the MBBS program and 9,622 seats for the BDS program under the 85% state quota, along with 100% seats for private medical colleges. After document verification, candidates will be allotted seats based on various factors, including the preferences they fill, their NEET UG rank, score, and the reservation criteria. Once the seat allotment is done, candidates will be required to download the Karnataka NEET UG 2025 seat allotment letter. They must report to the allotted college along with the necessary documents for final verification. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Central government approval is fundamental principle, legal safeguard of Grand Living Buddha reincarnation: signed article
File photo shows flags on the Tian'anmen Square and atop the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China. – Xinhua photo BEIJING (July 2): The following is a signed article by Li Hui, assistant researcher at College of Philosophy, Nankai University. Approval from the Central Government is the Fundamental Principle and Legal Safeguard of Reincarnation of the Grand Living Buddhas In the Tibetan Buddhist reincarnation system, the three fundamental principles of 'search within the Chinese territory, drawing lots from the golden urn, and approval from the central government' form a comprehensive and rigorous framework for succession. This system serves as a vital safeguard for national unity, ethnic solidarity, and the proper order of Tibetan Buddhism. Among these principles, 'approval by the central government' is the system's ultimate and most essential step. Far from being a mere administrative formality, it carries profound historical logic, legal foundation, and practical significance. This principle is essential for ensuring an orderly reincarnation process, as well as for maintaining social stability and enduring peace. I. Central Government Approval as a Vital Manifestation of National Sovereignty Religious affairs constitute an integral part of state governance, and the management of Tibetan Buddhism affairs is a key responsibility of the central government. From a political perspective, the principle of 'central government approval' specifies the national character of reincarnation, incorporating religious matters into the state governance framework. In history, successive central governments of China have managed reincarnation affairs through measures such as conferring titles on influential Living Buddhas and establishing regulatory mechanisms. In 1793, the Qing government promulgated the 'Imperially Approved Ordinance for Better Governance of Tibet (29-Article Ordinance),' with its first article explicitly stipulating that the reincarnation of Living Buddhas had to follow the procedure of 'drawing lots from the golden urn,' and affirming the central government's approval authority over the reincarnation. In 1936, the government of the Republic of China issued the 'Regulations on Lama Reincarnation,' mandating that the reincarnation of grand Living Buddhas must be reported to the central government before proceeding with historical conventions, traditional religious ritual search, the lot-drawing ceremony, and the final approval by the central government. Following the founding of the People's Republic of China, the reincarnation of Tibetan Buddhism Living Buddhas has been managed by governments at various levels in accordance with the law. In 1959, the democratic reform abolished the feudal serfdom under theocracy in Xizang, liberating the reincarnation institution and ushering in a new era. Since 1949, the state has successfully overseen the reincarnations of several prominent Living Buddhas, including the 16th Living Buddha Karmapa, the 10th Panchen Erdeni, and the sixth Regent Reting Rinpoche. By 2024, 93 newly reincarnated Living Buddhas had been confirmed upon government approval. The principle of central government approval is not an externally imposed requirement but an inherent necessity for the reincarnation system's own development — a crucial safeguard for maintaining religious order and preventing power abuses. The reincarnation of Living Buddhas is by no means merely an internal religious matter; rather, it reflects a convergence of national sovereignty, state authority, religious doctrine, and the sentiments of believers. Any interference or meddling by external forces constitutes a provocation to China's sovereignty. II. Central Government Approval as a Prerequisite for Safeguarding National Unity and Social Stability Xizang is an inseparable part of China's territory, and the Living Buddha reincarnation system, as a unique succession method in Tibetan Buddhism, is vital for national security and social stability. Allowing local or foreign forces to interfere in reincarnation affairs would pose an immediate threat to China's national unity. The central government's confirmation of the reincarnation fundamentally ensures that the reincarnation process remains within the legal and policy framework of the nation, preventing any attempts to exploit the system to split the country or undermine ethnic unity. Only by upholding the principle of 'central government approval' can the succession of Living Buddhas consistently align with both national interests and the fundamental interests of the vast majority of religious believers. Moreover, central government approval reflects the Chinese government's commitment to implementing the policy of freedom of religious belief. By managing reincarnation in accordance with laws and regulations, the central government not only respects Tibetan Buddhism's traditional customs and religious rituals but also safeguards the legitimate rights and interests of believers, fostering harmony in religious relations. The lot-drawing ceremony was originally established precisely to prevent Mongolian and Tibetan aristocrats from exploiting reincarnation to seize religious power. Today, central government approval serves as a critical line of defense in the struggle against separatists. This governance model both honors religious traditions and defends national political security. III. Central Government Approval as a Legal Declaration of the Governance of Religious Affairs in a Modern State Every country, throughout history and across different regions, without exception, manages its religious affairs in accordance with the law. Currently, affairs related to the reincarnation of Living Buddhas are being carried out in accordance with China's laws and regulations. The Regulations on Religious Affairs have clarified in legal form the approval authority for the reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism. It stipulates that the succession of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, under the guidance of Buddhist organizations, must be conducted in accordance with religious rituals and historical conventions, and must be reported to and approved by the religious affairs department of the people's government at the provincial level or above, or by the people's government at the provincial level or above. Article 9 of the Measures on the Management of the Reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism stipulates that after the recognition of the reincarnation of the Living Buddhas, the case must be reported to and approved by the religious affairs department of the people's government at the provincial or autonomous region level. For those with significant influence within the Buddhist community, approval must be obtained from the people's government of the province or autonomous region. For those with major influence, approval must be obtained from the National Religious Affairs Administration. For those with particularly major influence, approval must be obtained from the State Council. Reincarnated Living Buddhas approved by the religious affairs department of the people's government of a province or autonomous region, or by the people's government of a province or autonomous region, must be filed with the National Religious Affairs Administration. Over the course of the years, the Dalai group has continuously advocated 'Tibetan independence,' attempting to negate the central government's decisive authority over the reincarnation of Living Buddhas. Through legal provisions and institutional design, the central government has clearly established the irreversible procedures for the reincarnation of Living Buddhas, namely searching within the Chinese territory, drawing lots from the golden urn, and approval from the central government. This has fundamentally eliminated the room for separatist forces to manipulate religious affairs. From the enshrinement of the golden urn in front of the Buddha statue in the Jokhang Temple in 1793 to the solemn approval by the State Council for the 11th Panchen Erdeni in 1995, the principle of 'approval by the central government' has endured for three centuries. As a core component of the reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, the approval from the central government is both a choice of history and an inevitability of the times. It is deeply rooted in the historical pattern of China as a unified multi-ethnic nation, serves the practical need for the country's long-term stability and security, and reflects the political wisdom of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government in addressing religious issues. The governance logic that political power is above religious authority and national law is superior to religious rules provides a reference for multi-ethnic countries in handling religious affairs. As we advance toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, the principle of central government approval will continue to play an irreplaceable role in maintaining national unity, ethnic solidarity, and religious harmony. It will also contribute Chinese wisdom to global religious governance. central government China Grand Living Buddha reincarnation
