Welsh Parliament rejects national poet's poem due to mention of Gaza

It was previously reported that Uzbek scientists planned to organize the first scientific expedition to India this November. During a meeting between an Indian representative and the head of the Ibn Sina Foundation, issues regarding the high-level organization of this expedition were discussed.

The meeting took place with Ms. Smith Pant, who is the Extraordinary and Honorary Ambassador of India to the country, and Nozimhon Mahmudov, Chairman of the Board of the Ibn Sina Public Foundation.

As the end of 2026 approaches, it is an opportune time to select books that challenge conventional ideas, reveal overlooked stories, and foster a deeper understanding of the world around us. Popular science literature is capable not only of conveying facts; it can also introduce readers to unfamiliar communities, analyze the forces shaping society, and prompt them to question what they have long taken for granted.

These five popular science books offer diverse approaches to looking beyond everyday headlines, covering political and social realities, crime investigations, history, and the natural world. If you want to make your reading list more thought-provoking before the year ends, these works deserve a place.

Abhishek Choudhary's book 'Believer's Dilemma' is a compelling choice for those interested in the relationship between faith, politics, and public life. The work raises questions about what happens when personal beliefs clash with complex political realities, making it particularly relevant for readers studying ideas that influence society.

Literature exploring ideology and belief motivates readers to seek answers beyond simplicity. It helps understand how people reconcile their principles with surrounding institutions, movements, and circumstances. This book is recommended for those who enjoy political popular science literature and wish to explore the tension between conviction and reality.

In 'Dapaan,' Ipsita Chakravarti presents social and cultural aspects that often remain outside mainstream public discussion. This is a valuable addition for anyone striving to understand how communities, identities, and life experiences shape people's worldview. One of the greatest benefits of reading popular science literature is the opportunity to encounter viewpoints different from one's own. Stories rooted in specific places and communities can show how history, culture, and social structures influence daily life. 'Dapaan' is a work worth exploring if you want to move beyond familiar narratives and gain an alternative social perspective.

For readers interested in investigations, deception, and the people behind complex schemes, Snigdha Punam's 'Scamlands' is a worthy candidate. Investigative popular science literature can uncover the conditions under which fraud thrives, exploring the links between ambition, opportunity, vulnerability, and trust.

Fraud is not just about stories of lost money. It can also expose weaknesses in institutions, the allure of quick success, and the ways people are persuaded to believe promises that seem too good to be true. Studying these patterns can promote greater skepticism and help readers realize the importance of questioning extraordinary claims. If you enjoy true stories that combine investigation with an understanding of human behavior, 'Scamlands' is a strong option for your year-end reading list.

'The Dig' by Somiya Ashok offers a subject for those interested in journalistic investigations and the process of uncovering stories beneath the surface. The very idea of 'digging' implies a deeper look, examining evidence, and discovering details that might otherwise remain hidden. Good investigative popular science literature encourages readers to ask the questions behind the facts. It analyzes how evidence is gathered, how competing versions are assessed, and why some stories require time to comprehend. This approach makes readers more thoughtful about the information they encounter in news reports and public discussions. For anyone hoping to read deeper popular science books before the end of the year, 'The Dig' is another option to consider.

In 'Wild Capital,' Neha Sinha focuses on the interconnectedness between the natural world and the human systems that affect it. For readers interested in wildlife, conservation, and environmental issues, this book provides an opportunity to study the broader forces determining the coexistence of humans and nature. Environmental popular science literature is particularly valuable because it connects ecological problems with issues of development, resources, and the future of shared landscapes. It prompts readers to view wildlife not as something separate from human life, but as part of a larger system influenced by our decisions. If you want to expand your understanding of nature conservation and the challenges facing the natural world, 'Wild Capital' deserves attention in your reading plans.

A meaningful reading list does not necessarily have to focus on a single theme. The five books mentioned above cover various areas of interest—from faith and society to investigative journalism and ecology. Together, they offer an opportunity to explore unfamiliar perspectives and think more critically about the world. Before 2026 ends, consider choosing the book that best matches your curiosity, or challenge yourself to read all five. The best popular science books do more than just pass the time; they leave behind new questions, fresh perspectives, and ideas worthy of reflection long after the last page is turned.

A new trailer for the film 'Ramayana: The Ascent of a Legend' by director Nitesh Tiwari, which was presented on October 15, 2026, has been released and has generated significant interest among viewers. In this trailer, Ranbir is depicted in the guise of Rama fighting demons, while Asura Raja Ravana swears to destroy them.

As the embodiment of Vishnu, Ranbir takes an oath to kill Ravana across all three worlds. He firmly resolves to find and eliminate him, whether in Patala, Earth, or Heaven. On the other hand, Ravana, the film's villain, presents himself as the supreme ruler of all three worlds, blessed by the God Brahma, while the entire human army trembles in fear of his demise.

The trailer also showcases scenes of battle between Ravana and the god Indra. An image of Jatayu (an ancient divine bird) fighting Ravana during the abduction of Sita is also glimpsed. The visual effects and lighting of the magnificent golden city (Lanka) shown in the trailer are impressive. The massive architecture, waterfront jetties, boats, and buildings shining in golden light at sunset testify to the meticulous development of the visual aspect by the creators.

The trailer features footage after a fierce battle, where the presence of the King of Lanka, Yasha, adds a serious atmosphere. In one striking moment, a huge cave or hall appears, on whose wall a mighty statue or Shiva's dance pose is carved. Ravana is seen in devotion to Lord Shiva.

The video also hints at the relationship between Rama and Sita. The brave chick Jatayu, battling Ravana, appears briefly. In the new trailer, Ravana is portrayed as a powerful ruler capable of making even gods bow before his might. Furthermore, battles of Rama with demons are shown; his VFX caused a sensation when he kills a demon that climbed onto his chest.

Kumbhakarna is glimpsed in one scene, although it is not confirmed that it is him. The trailer also shows the battle between Ravana and Jatayu during Sita's abduction, which impressed many viewers. The first episode of 'Ramayana' will be released worldwide on November 5, 2026, and the second part is planned for Diwali 2027.