IN a bid to return back to Britain, Shamima Begum, who left her home in east London to join Daesh (Islamic State group), shunned her niqab and headscarves for a fashionable western look by wearing casual clothes and shades.
She is fighting to return to the UK as her lawyers have challenged the decision of stripping her of her British citizenship. Last month, the Supreme Court ruled that Begum can't return to the UK and appeal against the removal of her citizenship in 2019.
She along with few other women, trying to return back, are now stranded in the Roj camp for Daesh supporters in north-east Syria.
Begum, from Bethnal Green, east London was 15 when she ran away with other two schoolgirls to Syria and later married a Dutch Jihadi in 2015. When she was traced, Begum was widowed and had lost two children, also her third child died after birth.
Roj camp manager Nora Abdo told the Daily Telegraph that Begum and other Daesh women regret their crimes and want to return home.
Her lawyer Tasnime Akunjee and sculptor Sir Anish Kapoor, who created the Orbit tower for the 2012 London Olympics, call Britain’s treatment of Begum as racist and her being made a "tragic scapegoat of a punitive unforgiving government intent on harsh retribution".
A billboard featuring General Syed Asim Munir , Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf , and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, along a road in Peshawar
POPULAR support has surged for Pakistan’s army chief General Asim Munir, the most powerful man in the country, after the worst conflict in decades with India, shattering criticism of interference in politics and harshly cracking down on opponents.
A grateful government gave him a rare promotion last week to field marshal “in recognition of the strategic brilliance and courageous leadership that ensured national security and decisively defeated the enemy”.
The military has ruled Pakistan for at least three decades since independence in 1947 and wielded extraordinary influence even with a civilian government in office. But it, and its hardline chief, have rarely received the widespread outpouring of affection seen this month that analysts say has reinforced the military’s dominance in the country.
“Long live General Asim Munir!” read placards held aloft in rallies in recent days in towns across Pakistan. His picture was put up on lamp posts and bridges, with some banners saying: “You are our saviour!”
A survey conducted after the conflict by Gallup Pakistan, a local pollster, found that 93 per cent of respondents felt their opinion of the military had improved. Munir’s most bitter domestic foe, jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, also congratulated the military after this month’s clashes with India, claimed by both nations as a victory.
“It’s my country, it’s my army,” Khan said in a post on X last week. “I pay tribute to the Pakistan Air Force and all our military personnel for their professionalism and outstanding performance.”
Yousuf Nazar, a political commentator, said of Munir: “He has emerged as Pakistan’s strongman with his military’s reputation restored as a formidable force.”
Six months after he took charge in November 2022, Munir was faced with the most serious challenge to the military’s hegemony when Khan’s supporters ransacked military installations.
Munir later faced sharp domestic criticism for the jailing of Khan and cracking down on supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, as well as what critics alleged was rigging the general election last year to favour a rival party.
But the conflict with India has turned that around, said Ayesha Siddiqa, author of Military Inc, a book on the Pakistan military.
“It has made the general stronger than any other previous generals. He is a hero now,” she said, adding that the contest between the neighbours will be headed by India’s prime minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan’s Munir, a devout Muslim.
The military did not respond to questions sent by Reuters.
Munir, who has memorised the Qu’ran, has underlined what he has said are fundamental differences between Islamic Pakistan and predominantly Hindu India.
“Our religion is different. Our customs are different. Our traditions are different,” he said in a speech in Islamabad a week before the attack in Indian Kashmir.
The Indian army “with all their wherewithal” cannot “intimidate” Pakistan, he said, peppering his
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AbRam Khan Celebrates 12th Birthday with Gauri and Suhana at NMACC
AbRam Khan turned 12 on 27 May, and the occasion was celebrated in a quiet, close-knit gathering at Mumbai’s NMACC Arts Café. Hosted by his mother Gauri Khan and sister Suhana, the celebration was simple, personal, and full of warmth. Though the Khan family is often seen together during major public moments, this time, Shah Rukh Khan and eldest son Aryan were noticeably absent, a detail that didn’t go unnoticed by fans online.
The celebration video, shared by the NMACC’s official Instagram account, opened with AbRam walking in alongside Suhana, both looking casual and cheerful. Suhana chose a breezy printed dress, while AbRam wore a relaxed blue tee. Gauri, who designed the café, appeared in a chic white blazer and trousers.
Inside, the café buzzed with a low-key birthday mood: pizzas, sweet bites, and a rich chocolate cake took centre stage. Also spotted were family friends like Pooja Dadlani and Kajal Anand, along with Gauri’s mother and other close relatives.
The caption from NMACC read, “Such a joy to welcome back Mrs Gauri Khan – designer of the NMACC Arts Café – along with Suhana Khan and family for AbRam’s birthday celebrations. Another evening full of sweet moments and big smiles.”
Social media reactions quickly picked up on the absence of Shah Rukh and Aryan. “Where’s King Khan?” asked one user. Another chimed in, “Why is the elder brother and dad missing?”
Fans wonder about Shah Rukh Khan and Aryan’s absence from the birthday celebrationGetty Images
While the reasons for their absence remain unclear, the bond between AbRam, Gauri, and Suhana stood out in the video full of smiles, quiet hugs, and a genuine sense of comfort. Born via surrogacy in 2013, AbRam is the youngest of the Khan siblings and has been a familiar face next to SRK during Eid and birthday waves to fans from Mannat.
Interestingly, the 12-year-old has already dipped his toes into voice acting. He recently dubbed for young Mufasa in the Hindi version of Mufasa: The Lion King, while Aryan voiced Simba. The film, a prequel to the beloved The Lion King, is directed by Barry Jenkins.
AbRam spotted with Shahrukh Khan Getty Images
Despite SRK and Aryan being missing in action, the gathering was a regular modern family celebration, laid-back, loving, and shared with those who matter most.
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Freedom Through Movement: “Songs of the Bulbul” Takes Flight at Nottingham Playhouse
On Tuesday, June 3, Nottingham Playhouse will host the premiere of Songs of the Bulbul, a deeply evocative new dance work created by internationally renowned artist Aakash Odedra. This compelling performance combines ancient Sufi storytelling with contemporary dance, offering audiences a moving exploration of captivity and liberation through the powerful medium of movement and music. Set in the vibrant cultural heart of Nottingham, this production promises a unique and immersive theatrical experience, showcasing a blend of classical and modern artistic traditions that will captivate both dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Inspired by the ancient Sufi myth of the bulbul—a songbird captured and held in captivity—Songs of the Bulbul tells a timeless tale of confinement, yearning, and spiritual freedom. In Sufi tradition, the bulbul often symbolises the soul’s longing for union with the divine, trapped within the material world. This metaphor is brought to life on stage through the exquisite choreography of Rani Khanam, a master of Kathak dance, and the innovative musical compositions of Rushil Ranjan. Together with Aakash Odedra’s visionary direction and performance, the piece weaves a narrative that is at once personal and universal, reflecting themes of restriction and the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of freedom.
Aakash Odedra has established himself as a pioneer in blending classical Indian dance with contemporary styles, creating performances that are visually striking and emotionally profound. His work often addresses complex themes of identity, culture, and transcendence, making Songs of the Bulbul a natural continuation of his artistic journey. Rani Khanam’s choreography brings the intricate rhythms and storytelling of Kathak, a classical North Indian dance form, enriching the performance with cultural depth and historical resonance. Complementing the dance is Rushil Ranjan’s evocative original score, which uses traditional instruments and modern musical textures to underscore the emotional landscape of the story.
This Nottingham staging of Songs of the Bulbul marks the beginning of a wider UK and international tour. Audiences eager to experience this breathtaking fusion of dance, music, and myth are encouraged to visit www.aakashodedra.com for further tour dates and venues. The production is expected to draw attention not only for its artistic merit but also for its fresh interpretation of age-old themes that remain deeply relevant in today’s world.
For anyone interested in contemporary dance, cross-cultural storytelling, or innovative theatre, Songs of the Bulbul offers a rare opportunity to witness a masterful collaboration between some of the most exciting talents in performing arts today. This is a story of hope and resilience told through the universal language of dance—a reminder of the indomitable spirit that exists within us all.
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Russell Brand leaves Southwark Crown Court after entering not guilty pleas
Russell Brand, once a regular on TV screens and now a high-profile online figure, appeared in a London court on Friday and denied all allegations of rape and sexual assault. The case, involving accusations from four different women, will now move towards a trial scheduled for 3 June 2026.
The 49-year-old, known for his past work in comedy and film, as well as for his recent outspoken online presence, faces five charges: one of rape, one of oral rape, two of sexual assaults, and one of indecent assault. The alleged incidents happened between 1999 and 2005, a time when Brand was climbing the ladder in Britain’s entertainment industry.
Brand remains silent as he faces reporters after brief court hearingGetty Images
The courtroom appearance was brief but closely watched. Dozens of journalists were present as Brand stood in a glass enclosure at Southwark Crown Court. Dressed in a dark suit and open-collared shirt, he said “not guilty” to each charge.
One of the most serious allegations involves an incident during a political event in Bournemouth in 1999. A woman claims Brand raped her in a hotel room after a Labour Party conference. Other accusations include unwanted sexual advances and assaults at a TV station and a party in London.
Media gather outside London court as Russell Brand appears in sexual assault caseGetty Images
Brand has rejected all accusations since they first surfaced in a joint media investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in 2023. He later posted a video on social media calling himself a former addict and flawed individual, but insisted he never acted without consent.
The trial is expected to last four to five weeks. Due to a backlog in the UK’s court system, such delays between a plea and trial are common. British law protects the identities of people who report sexual assault unless they choose to go public and also restricts pre-trial reporting to avoid influencing jurors.
Court sets 2026 trial date in case involving allegations against Russell BrandGetty Images
Once a mainstream star with roles in hit films and a high-profile marriage to singer Katy Perry, Brand has since reinvented himself as an online commentator. His YouTube channel, filled with politically charged and often controversial content, has millions of followers.
For now, Brand remains free while awaiting trial in a high-profile case that will unfold years after the alleged events took place.
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Promises an unfiltered look into her personal and professional life
Victoria Beckham has shared insights into her forthcoming Netflix docuseries, which promises an unfiltered look into her personal and professional life. The series aims to provide a "warts-and-all insight into the blood, sweat and literal tears" involved in managing her fashion empire, which she launched in 2008.
Speaking to Bloomberg, Beckham acknowledged she has relinquished control over the final product, stating, "To be completely honest, I am in the hands of the editor now." She also expressed uncertainty about viewing the emotional scenes herself, adding, "There are tears. And it did occur to me the other day, what am I going to think when I see those tears on a huge screen? Or on an iPhone?"
The docuseries will showcase Beckham's day-to-day responsibilities running her global business. While her husband, David Beckham, is expected to have limited screen time, Beckham joked about his potential involvement, saying, "Well, he might end up on the cutting-room floor. I mean, who knows?" Their children will also feature in the documentary, with Victoria confirming they are "a huge part of everything" and have been filmed alongside their father.
The series, which began filming in September and is expected to continue until June, may be released in late 2025, although no official date has been announced.
The series aims to provide a "warts-and-all insight into the blood, sweat and literal tears" Getty Images
This announcement comes amid reports of an ongoing rift between the Beckhams and their eldest son, Brooklyn. The tensions reportedly intensified after Brooklyn and his wife, Nicola Peltz, were absent from significant family celebrations, including David's 50th birthday parties in Miami and London. Brooklyn's recent Instagram post, featuring a video of himself and Nicola riding a motorcycle, included a caption expressing unwavering support for his wife, which some interpreted as a pointed message amid the family discord.
Sources have suggested that the rift may have originated from an incident at Brooklyn and Nicola's 2022 wedding. According to reports, Victoria Beckham allegedly disrupted the couple's first dance by taking the spotlight during the performance, leading to Nicola leaving the room in tears. This event is said to have exacerbated existing tensions between Nicola and Victoria.
Despite these challenges, Victoria Beckham continues to focus on her professional endeavors, with the upcoming docuseries set to provide an intimate look at her journey in the fashion industry.
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