Tel Aviv's iconic Tandoori restaurant has relocated after four decades to a new beachfront venue, renamed Tandoori Lands End. Inaugurated by the Mayor and Indian Ambassador, the iconic restaurant is owned by the Pushkarnas who pioneered Indian cuisine in Israel. Hosting figures like Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Zubin Mehta, Tandoori witnessed historic moments like the 1993 Oslo Israeli-Palestinian talks. Owner Reena Pushkarna, awarded India's highest diaspora honor, persevered since 1983 to share Indian culture when ties were limited. Dubbed Israel's "Cultural Ambassador", her nostalgia for the "Pushkarna legend" and fine dining promise an engaging new chapter.

Indian journalist Jinisha Bhanushali embarked on a captivating exploration of London's streets, delving into the heart of this cultural melting pot. Her journey uncovered the surge in popularity of Indian cuisine across the UK, with supermarkets now offering an array of Indian ingredients and products. Vibrant Foods and its iconic brands like East End, TRS, and FUDCO have played a significant role in this culinary revolution. Mukesh Ambani's visit to the Chaiiwala chain highlighted the global impact of Indian culture. Through her lens, Bhanushali showcased how these developments provide a taste of home for Indian expats and students, fostering a meaningful connection to their heritage.

The Himachali Link UK released a video of the celebration of their rich cultural heritage that took centre stage during the 77th Independence Day festivities in London. The High Commission of India orchestrated the event, where the Himachali essence thrived. A grand feast of Himachali Dham, cooked meticulously by Chef Sanjeev without onions, garlic, or ginger, delighted over 1200 attendees. The cultural spectacle, led by Anil & Inderpal Chandel, Deepak & Sujata, mesmerized 10,000 spectators with captivating Naati performances, honouring Devta ji and showcasing diverse art forms. The Pheri of a handmade palki enchanted all, garnering well-deserved praise for Himachal Pradesh's culture. [Video: I Am Local]

Indians in London, mostly children, appealed in a video (seen on ANI) to PM Modi to intervene and bring home 2-year-old Ariha Shah to her Indian parents. Waving Indian flags, the kids chanted for Modi to ask Germany to return Ariha. Ariha's parents Bhavesh and Dhara Shah have fought for their daughter since 2021 when she was removed from their custody in Berlin amid harassment claims that were dropped. Despite the closed criminal case, Ariha remains under civil custody of Berlin Child Services. The Indian community assembled seeking Modi's help to reunite the toddler with her despondent parents.

As per a Hindustan Times report, China has ramped up construction of reinforced bunkers and underground facilities in Aksai Chin, located about 70km from the LAC with India. Satellite imagery comparisons from December 2021 and August 2023 by Maxar Technologies show China building hardened structures at least three spots in Aksai Chin to station more weapons and troops. The imagery shows reinforced personnel bunkers coming up, even as China released a new map claiming entire Arunachal and Aksai Chin, amid ongoing India-China border tensions. The construction highlights China's efforts to bolster its military presence along the sensitive boundary with India.

The Indian Mission in Iceland shared pictures of Yoga students from various nations united in a joyous Rakhi celebration, radiating joy and enthusiasm. The @ICCR_hq's message of harmony, resonating with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's essence, graced the event, aligning perfectly with G20India's spirit. This heartfelt gathering symbolized global togetherness, fostering camaraderie through Rakhi festivities. The pictures captured the mood and spirit of rakhi perfectly, enhancing the significance of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, embodying India's warm embrace as it welcomes the world for the G20 summit. [photo courtesy: @indembiceland]

The Indian Mission in Warsaw shared captivating snapshots of the Kerala Association of Poland's vibrant Onam 2023 celebration. Held in Warsaw on August 26th, the event, aptly named "Pan India One," resonated with grandeur. The gathering united members of the Indian diaspora and Polish friends, offering them a glimpse into India's rich cultural tapestry through traditional music and dances from the state of Kerala. The festivities were further enriched by the indulgence in the delectable Onam feast, the renowned Ona Sadya, treating attendees to a taste of traditional Kerala cuisine. [photo courtesy: @IndiainPoland]

A Pew Research Centre survey published on Tuesday found that India holds a broadly favourable global image, with 46% of adults in 23 countries viewing the country positively. The study comes as India prepares to host the G20 Summit. While 34% held unfavourable views of India, it scored higher positive perceptions overall. However, global confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi was mixed - while remaining popular domestically, 37% of respondents in 12 countries said they have confidence in PM Modi, while 40% did not. According to the survey, India enjoys largely positive perceptions worldwide, but views on its leadership remain divided ahead of its G20 presidency.

Indian Ambassador Reenat Sandhu hosted a 22-member delegation from Maharashtra's state legislature at the India House in The Hague this week. Led by Deputy Chairperson Dr. Neelam Gorhe, the delegation included Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and Assembly. In her address, Ambassador Sandhu highlighted strong India-Netherlands ties, especially cooperation between Maharashtra and Netherlands in sectors like agriculture, healthcare and environment. Expert Dutch speakers like municipal councillor Prachee van Brandenburg gave an overview of the Dutch political system and farming practices. 

The Indian Consul in Edinburgh participated in Raksha Bandhan celebrations held at the Edinburgh Hindu Mandir on 27 August, along with Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and Member of Scottish Parliament Deidre Brock. Organised by the UK and Scotland Hindu Foundation and the Hindu Mandir, the event saw the leaders congregate for the Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The Indian Consul congratulated the organisers and conveyed his appreciation to the UK Defence Forces, Police Scotland and Fire Services. The participation of officials at the celebration reflects the strong cultural ties between India and Scotland. (Pic courtesy: @IndiaInScotland on X)