News & Events

New Zealand’s Parliament has passed groundbreaking legislation granting Mount Taranaki the same legal rights as a human being, marking a significant step forward in indigenous rights and environmental protection. Under the Taranaki Maunga Collective Redress Bill, the mountain will now be legally known as Te Kahui Tupua and jointly managed by local iwi (tribes) and the government.

Mount Taranaki holds deep spiritual significance for Māori communities, who regard it as a sacred ancestor. This legislative change recognises their enduring connection to the landmark while addressing historical grievances. Minister Paul Goldsmith highlighted the importance of acknowledging past injustices to support the aspirations of the iwi.

New Zealand has previously granted legal personhood to natural landmarks, including the Te Urewera forest (2014) and the Whanganui River (2017), ensuring their protection and cultural recognition.

Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/new-zealand-grants-legal-personhood-to-mount-taranaki/ar-AA1yc2hm?ocid=BingNewsVerp

The festivities of the day commence with formal ceremonies in Colombo, where Sri Lanka’s President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, raises the national flag and delivers an address highlighting the country’s achievements and aspirations for the future. The proceedings feature military displays, traditional performances, and multi-faith observances, embodying the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s diverse population.

Across the island, citizens gather to celebrate with magnificent fireworks displays, patriotic musical performances, and community events. Schools and organisations organise special programmes commemorating Sri Lanka’s journey to independence. National Day serves as a poignant moment for collective reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the nation’s development and social harmony.

Global music icon Chris Martin and acclaimed actress Dakota Johnson have been spotted participating in sacred rituals at India’s Mahakumbh 2025 festival in Prayagraj. The Coldplay frontman and his fiancée were filmed taking part in the traditional holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, where three sacred rivers meet.

A fan, who unexpectedly encountered the duo at the riverbank, shared a video on Instagram, expressing admiration for Martin’s humility and respect for the Triveni Sangam. The fan captioned the moment, celebrating how fate brought Coldplay to him instead of the other way around.

Martin was dressed in black shorts, while Johnson wore a kurta and trousers. They both followed local traditions, with Martin visibly engaged in the ritual. The couple’s involvement in this revered festival has resonated widely, with many praising their respect for Indian culture and traditions.

Read the original article here: https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/music/coldplay-chris-martin-dakota-johnson-take-a-dip-at-mahakumbh-2025-wins-for-respect-watch-9811447/