Star Wars: The Force Awakens review: This awesome big-screen experience, do not miss

The Star Wars franchise has seen both sides of the spectrum – the dark side and the light. While the first three films kick started a gigantic franchise that became pop culture for generations to come, the previous three films undid most of good work with shoddy storytelling, bad computer graphics and lame melodrama. So bad were the films the internet still pokes fun at them with memes.

JJ Abrams had quite a task – he had to reinvigorate the franchise, erase memories of the terrible previous three films, give this generation of youngsters a cool new world of pop culture, and remind the old fans why they became fans in the first place. With The Force Awakens, he’s accomplished all this with terrific style.

Titled ‘Episode 7’, the best thing about The Force Awakens is how it works for people who are new to the franchise and only have cursory knowledge of the names of the main characters. If you have never seen any of the previous movies, but know that Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia were the heroes, and Darth Vader was the big bad guy who was related in some way to Skywalker, you’ll have a blast watching this movie.

A scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Screengrab A scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Screengrab

With crushing nostalgia brought on by the opening crawl of text, the story opens a few decades after the events in Episode 6. The Empire has been thwarted but a seed of the organization called The First Order has now become the fascist interplanetary leader. Princess Leia is now the General of the rebel forces trying to hold out against the tyranny, Luke Skywalker has gone missing under mysterious circumstances.

Three unlikely people collide into one another: Poe Dameron (Isaac), a rebel pilot who can fly ‘pretty much everything’, Finn (Boyega) a Stormtrooper who doesn’t quite like his job, and Rey (Ridley) a scavenger on a desert planet who bumps into the cute little robot BB-8 which carries some explosive information. Lurking in the dark side is the villainous Kylo Ren (Driver) with an agenda that is best left for you to discover.

Despite running for more than two and a half hours The Force Awakens passes by like a bullet, thanks to Abrams’ flair for breathless pacing. His theme of ‘people running around’ from his previous films carries over beautifully to the world of Star Wars. The pace is so breakneck at times you’ll tend to miss most of the Easter Eggs embedded into the imagery everywhere, but that only motivates you to go back to the theater and catch all the references.

The big difference between this film and all the previous ones is how real everything looks. Abrams works with mostly physical sets and costumes which is a nice departure from the awful green screen environments from earlier films. The scale of the production design is stunning, and most of the vistas are just jaw dropping. The world established in the film now looks livable, breathable; you get a sense of the Geography of the film.

The X wings look mouth watering, as does the new Millennium Falcon whose shots of flying around would wet the pants of old fans. The Lightsabers are no longer tubelights, they now have a growling intensity, burning with unstable, unpredictable grit much like the villain in the movie. And yes the Lightsabers battle between key characters towards the end is a cause for cheer.

But most importantly The Force Awakens has characters you give a damn about. Ridley’s character is particularly memorable, not just because of Ridley’s excellent screen presence but also because her character kind of subverts the clichés of a strong female protagonist. The cameos from familiar faces like Han Solo (Ford) and certain otherworldly creatures only adds as a bonus.

There’s really too much to like in The Force Awakens to even consider giving it a miss. It makes a big case for film over digital and an even stronger case to get your butts off your chairs and head to the movie theater. It’s not often we get a legitimately awesome Big Screen Experience these days, so make the most of it. The wait for the next Star Wars movie, however, is going to be excruciating.

A scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Google Glass is back: Filing points to a sleeker, more durable, foldable version for enterprises

Earlier this year, Google had announced that its much-hyped Glass project had been temporarily shelved. The company had announced it was time for Glass to grow out of its baby steps and put on their big kid shoes. In other words, stop selling its head-mounted computer to consumers and come back with a new, improved version.

Well, it’s back. Made especially for the workplace, the aptly dubbed Google Glass ‘Enterprise Edition’ is on its way to make a mark in a territory that had received it positively and seen many use cases when it debuted. According to the pictures filed by Google with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the new Glass features a foldable form, thanks to the addition of a hinge that makes it fold down like a regular pair of glasses. 9to5Google reports that the hardware being used for Enterprise Edition is much better from the earlier one, with an Intel Atom processor, improved battery life and better wireless connectivity with a 5GHz Wi-Fi band for video streaming applications. The report also reveals that the new Glass boasts of better heat management, thanks to the new chip and its improved performance.

FCC images of Glass reveal a larger prism too. The report also explains how the power button has been moved from its awkward location on the inside to the back of the device. The front light comes on when the camera is in use and there is a yet-to-be-seen external battery, made by Google that attaches to the device magnetically. Also, the report claims that the device is waterproof and closed-off to keep it safe from debris and other substances that might find its way to the hardware. While Google has made no formal announcements, sources tell 9to5Google that the device has been in the hands of hundreds of people across Glass for Work startups and might be released soon.

File photo of Google co-founder Sergey Brin wearing Glass

Jallikattu to be legalised? Bull taming is cruelty at its best, govt is using issue for electoral win in Tamil Nadu

The Ministry for Environment, Forests, Climate Change and Animals Welfare have never had such a curious minister. From pronouncing trees are nuisances that get in the way of development, to writing letters to states to kill all animals that come into fields including elephants, Prakash Javadekar is the very antithesis of what an MoEF should be. His latest press conference which is in the papers today - but which he has been saying since the day he became the MoEF is that he intends to legalise the cruel and dangerous sports such as jallikattu (bull taming) in Tamil Nadu, bullock cart races in Maharashtra and Punjab, Kambala (buffalo race) in Karnataka and Dhirio (bull fight) in Goa, that were banned by the Supreme Court of India ( a bench headed by the Chief Justice) in May 2014.

In its judgment dated 7 May 2014, the Supreme Court stated: "We, therefore, hold that Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)is right in its stand that jallikattu, bullock-cart race and such events per-se violate Sections 3, 11(1)(a) and 11(1)(m)(ii) of PCA Act and hence we uphold the notification dated 11.7.2011 issued by the Central Government, consequently, Bulls cannot be used as performing animals, either for the Jallikattu events or Bullock-cart Races in the State of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra or elsewhere in the country." In its judgment the Supreme Court also categorically held that Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change cannot allow jallikattu or bull races and cannot modify the notification dated 11 July 2011 (whereby performances by bulls had been banned) without taking the Animal Welfare Board of India's (AWBI) - an advisory body under the same ministry- view with respect to the same. The ministry hasn't taken any opinion of the AWBI, while rushing to allow these cruel sports.

In the past, from 2008 to 2014, the special conditions of the Supreme Court regulating jallikattu were brazenly flouted at all the events which were inspected by the Animal Welfare Board of India. The evidence gathered during the inspection proved that no regulation can or will protect bulls from misery or people from injuries. The findings revealed that jallikattu is inherently cruel to animals and is a threat to human participants, spectators and any police or government representative assigned to monitor an event.

AFP image.AFP image.

Almost every bull, who was forced to participate endured suffering and pain and was dragged into the queue and the vadi vasals by his nose ropes to being hit, poked, bitten and deliberately terrified. In order to force the bulls into and out of the vadi vasals, each one must endure unmitigated suffering. Although the Supreme Court had placed emphasis on no harm coming to the animals, the reality was that cruelty to animals was inescapably part of jallikattu. Bulls are beaten, poked, prodded, harassed and jumped on by numerous people. They have their tails bitten and twisted, and suspicious liquids (likely alcohol) are forced down their throats before they are dragged into the vadi vasals.

In just over four years, from 2010 to 2014, at least 1,100 people have been injured due to jallikattu-type events, and 17 people have died. However, these figures were quoted by the media, the original figures are bound to be higher.

During bull races, all the bulls, who were forced to compete in the races, were subjected to abject cruelty, including being beaten, having irritants rubbed into their mouths, being yanked by nose ropes (causing their noses to bleed), being subjected to a torture device called a 'kela' and having their tails bitten, twisted and pulled. Bull racing is inherently cruel, as bulls can't be forced to run without agitating, frightening or hurting them, and enforcing race regulations is impractical. In the 2014 judgement the Supreme Court judgment also ruled that cruelty is inherent in these events, as bulls are not anatomically adapted for such races.

AWBI inspections documented cruelty to buffaloes, used in Kambala events in 2014, which was allowed through an interim order by Karnataka High Court, under certain regulations. The inspection found violations of the 2014 judgment of Supreme Court and several sections of the Indian Penal Code, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Rules there under. The findings include buffalo used in racing not being registered with the AWBI, drivers and animal handlers not possessing certificates for transportation of animals, buffalo having two or three tight-fitting thick nose ropes inserted through a hole in the nasal septum (which were constantly pulled and yanked, causing tremendous distress and pain) and buffalo with nose rings and plastic coverings on nose ropes causing pain and distress. During the race, the buffalo were subjected to violent acts, including being hit on the body, slapped on the face and having their tails pulled. Many were forced to participate in the race throughout the night, and after the race the animals were frothing at the mouth and salivating heavily because of severe dehydration and exhaustion.

During bull fights, eight bulls are typically used- in each round: two bulls are brought together and surrounded by a ring of spectators. The bulls' horns are sharpened to ensure that every charge will cause bloody gashes and deep puncture wounds in the other animal's flesh. The round ends when one of the bulls is either killed or manages to flee. The survivors of each round fight each other while spectators bet on the outcome. The "winner" is the last bull left alive - but by then, the bull's injuries are often so severe that he is typically sent to slaughter. Bull fights are in direct violation of Sections 11(1)(m)(ii) of PCA Act and the Supreme Court judgment and still it is unfortunate that Goa government taking initiative to legalize Dhirio, the bloody bull fights.

The plan of the Central government to amend the law while giving excuses like tradition and culture is purely to attract voters in Tamil Nadu and other states and it is ignoring the Supreme Court's judgment which stated that if culture and tradition are at variance with the law enacted by Parliament, the law will take precedence over culture and tradition. The initiative of the Bharatiya Janata Party governments to prohibit cow slaughter and ban beef, have limited practical effect on the butchering of cows, as their progeny- the bulls, will continue to suffer in the name of culture, tradition, and entertainment, until they are butchered for meat.

It is high time to understand that cruelty is not limited to just slaughter, but includes all types of unnecessary suffering induced on animals and the torture they are subjected to for the sake of human entertainment, and is explicitly explained in the PCA Act. Though the cow slaughter ban doesn't prevent the torture of cows and progenies, and doesn't extend to bulls and buffaloes, the initiatives of the Central Government to legalize Jallikattu, bull races or Kambala and bull fights or Dhirio is a huge and disastrous step backward against the values of this country for compassion and animal protection.

The Constitution of India says that it shall be the fundamental duty of every citizen of India to protect wildlife and to have compassion for all living creatures. Jallikattu, bull races and bull fights goes against this constitutional requirement of all Indian citizens and contravenes the PCA Act. The safety of participants and spectators is also put at tremendous risk. "Tradition" is never a sufficient justification for cruelty, and a cruel tradition should never be allowed to define a culture. Traditions, like everything else, can - and must - evolve. Times and sensibilities have changed, and these events are an inhumane and archaic ritual that has no place in the 21st century. The government should be rather supporting any legislation aimed at saving animals, protecting their quality of life and provide them fundamental rights.

Is the government going to restart Sati and Thugee as well. These are also part of India's traditions. On one hand this government says that they are pro-cow and have banned the selling of its meat . Is the bull not part of the cow family?

jallikattu

Arrested ex-IAF airman seduced by woman on Facebook: Key details about ISI espionage rackets

The arrest of a dismissed member of Indian Air Force personnel, who allegedly shared secret documents with intelligence operatives backed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has revealed a disturbing modus operandi reportedly being used by ISI to get its hands on sensitive information about the Indian armed forces.

Ranjith KK from Kerala, was arrested from Punjab at the Bathinda airbase on Monday as he was spying for ISI, the police had said.

An IAF official had also said that Ranjith, who was a leading aircraftman with the IAF, was dismissed on Monday evening (a few hours before his arrest) after evidence was found against him for sharing sensitive information with others.

Ranjith KK. PTIRanjith KK. PTI

"It was a long-drawn case. After an internal administrative inquiry, we dismissed Ranjith at around 5.30 pm on Monday," the IAF official, on condition of anonymity, had told IANS.

However, what is even more disturbing is the fact that Ranjith might not have known initially that he was divulging confidential information to the ISI.

Honey-trapped by operative on Facebook

According to Hindustan Times, Ranjith was under the impression that he was a defence analyst for a leading UK magazine until as recently as last week.

Ranjith was befriended on Facebook by a woman called Damini McNaught after he posted a profile picture in uniform.

"Ranjith was fooled by a cyber entity in the name of Damini McNaught who pretended to work as an executive with a British magazine that wanted some Indian Air Force information for its next issue,” sources told IANS.

Another report in The Times of India said that the friendship between Ranjith and McNaught had even taken a sexual turn when their conversation online began including dirty talk which ran late into the night.

McNaught's Facebook profile showed her to be a resident of Beeston, Leeds, said the report, adding that Ranjith and McNaught soon "moved from text chats to audio and photo exchanges on Whatsapp."

“Ranjith had shared information on some recent IAF exercises, movement of aircraft and deployment of various air force units with the woman, who spoke with a British accent during a VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) call that was intercepted by us,” sources told IANS.

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The report also said that McNaught used to give Ranjith Google satellite maps of Bathinda and had asked him to mark important buildings, including high-rise buildings from where the entire Air Force base was visible. She had even asked him to point out the location of the air traffic control, air force base and parking space for fighter planes.

Ranjith also got money in return for the information he revealed. Sources told DNA that Rs 30,000 transferred to his bank account had tipped off the intelligence agencies. "The suspect offered to transfer money into a bank account under Ranjith's name. We are looking into recent transactions made towards that account," the report quoted a senior police official as saying.

Interrogators also said that Ranjith had told them that McNaught had a British accent.

According to IANS, ISI has been using social networking site Facebook as a 'honey trap' to gather secret and confidential information about the armed forces, police indicated without naming the agency.

Delhi Police officers, who busted a pan-India ISI-backed espionage racket earlier this month, said that some fictitious Facebook accounts, purportedly belonging to women, are being used to identify and lure defence personnel.

They first befriend these defence personnel after drawing their attention with attractive profile photos and start getting familiar over chats. Slowly they encourage the targeted personnel to divulge matters considered secret that can be misused by the enemy.

“A few serving defence personnel are being pulled into the espionage network through these honey traps. Some fictitious Facebook accounts of women are being used for this,” Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Ravindra Yadav confirmed to IANS.

Delhi Police sleuths dug out this information during the questioning of 44-year-old library assistant, Kafaitullah Khan alias Master Raja, who was arrested in the capital on 26 November on charges of spying for ISI, official sources said.

The earlier arrests linked with ISI espionage racket

Khan was not the only person arrested on 26 November. Border Security Force (BSF) head constable Abdul Rasheed was also arrested along with Khan for obtaining secret information related to India's national security and sharing it with ISI.

Khan alias Master Raja. YouTube screengrab.Kafaitullah Khan alias Master Raja. YouTube screengrab.

While Rasheed was posted with the BSF intelligence wing in the same district, Khan was a resident of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.

"Khan is a handler of Pakistani intelligence operatives, and Rasheed was one of his chief sources. They were running an espionage racket which was supported by Pakistan's ISI," Ravindra Yadav had said a few days after Khan's arrest.

Yadav said the operation was conducted following tip-offs about ongoing anti-national activities sponsored by ISI, which is suspected to have a network of civilian handlers and security personnel in various parts of the country.

Khan was selected for the BSF in 1992, but he did not join the service. He was selected by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in 1993, but quit after getting a library assistant's job in 1995.

"Khan had visited Pakistan in 2013 where he came in contact with an ISI agent and in lieu of monetary benefit, he agreed to provide secret information about the defence forces.

"He later cultivated his sources in the army and the BSF and they started passing on information to Pakistani intelligence operatives. The information was passed through email, WhatsApp and Viber," Yadav had said.

Yadav had also said that Khan was given specific tasks by ISI, mainly relating to the deployment of security forces and Indian Air Force operations.

Among Khan's other agents were Irshad Ansari, Asfaq Ansari and Mohammad Jahangir, who were arrested from Ekbalpore in Kolkata, and charged with attempts to wage war against the state and criminal conspiracy.

However, the police haven't yet been able to ascertain any specific link between Ranjith and this racket.

With inputs from agencies

Ranjith KK. PTI

Bombs In Syria's Homs Kill 32, Wound 90: Reports

BEIRUT:  At least 32 people were killed and 90 wounded in two bomb explosions in the Syrian city of Homs on Monday, monitoring group the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The blasts, one from a car bomb and another from a suicide attack, struck the Zahra district in the middle of the city, said the Britain-based Observatory, which monitors the conflict through a network of contacts on the ground.

Syria's state news agency SANA reported two car bomb blasts, but gave a lower initial toll of six dead and 37 wounded.

It was the second major attack in the city since a ceasefire deal took effect earlier this month, paving the way for the government to take over the last rebel-controlled area of Homs.

Twin blasts on Dec. 12, also in Zahra, killed at least 16 people. Islamic State claimed reponsibility for that attack, saying it had detonated a suicide car bomb.

Under the Homs ceasefire deal, at least 700 insurgent fighters and members of their families left the last rebel-controlled area of the city, al Waer district. The United Nations presided over implementation of the deal.

Syrian army soldiers and civilians inspect the site of two bomb explosions in the Syrian city of Homs, Syria, in this handout picture provided by SANA on December 28, 2015

Odd-Even Rule For 2-Wheelers Possible In A Week, AAP Lawmaker Tells NDTV

NEW DELHI:  Two-wheelers in Delhi, which have been kept out of the odd-even plan for vehicles to be enforced in the New Year, may have to follow the rule too, a member of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has indicated.

AAP lawmaker Adarsh Shastri told NDTV that if there are enough buses on the road, then the exemption granted to two-wheelers may be reviewed.

"I don't see a problem in being able to embrace this plan. Yes, I agree 2-wheelers should not have been exempted. But face of the matter is today we don't have an alternate commute available for 50 lakh two-wheelers," Mr Shastri said, responding to the skepticism of panelists on The Buck Stops Here.

Asked if more buses were brought in, two-wheelers would be included in the odd-even plan, Mr Shastri said: "Yes, it is possible. In fact the Chief Minister has gone on record to say that we can evaluate after a week. A ban on two-wheelers after a week is very much possible."

Of 85 lakh vehicles in Delhi, 55 lakh are two wheelers.

Between January 1 and 15, odd cars will be allowed on odd dates and even cars on even dates, in an experiment that is aimed at drastically reducing air pollution, which is at a critical level in Delhi. The plan will be tested in a dry run on Wednesday.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced a long list of exemptions that include emergency vehicles, the President, Prime Minister, chief ministers and governors, women drivers, women driving with children below 12 and CNG and hybrid cars besides two-wheelers.

Mr Kejriwal declared that he and his family will follow the ban, but many have questioned whether the exemptions defeat the purpose.

Speaking to NDTV, Delhi Police Chief BS Bassi said yesterday: "What if someone says he is sick? I cannot stop him because I have to believe him. There is a possibility that many persons who will be violating will be able to wiggle through because of the exemptions. I wish we had gone for a policy without any exemptions."

Two-wheelers in Delhi may also have to follow odd-even rule if there are enough buses, says AAP lawmaker

Xiaomi Mi 5 images leaked, looks like Galaxy S6

Xiaomi's next flagship phone -- Mi 5 -- is probably one of the most-talked about phones of 2015, even though it is yet to come out in the market. But now leaked images of the upcoming phone show that the wait is going to be worth it, exactly how Xiaomi CEO predicted several weeks ago. The leaked images indicate that the Mi 5 is going to be an attractive phone with premium looks, which are somewhat similar to what we saw in Samsung's Galaxy S6.

The images indicate that the phone could have a 2.5D cover glass on the front and like the Galaxy S6, it could have a glass back while the entire phone is reinforced with a metal frame. Xiaomi also seems to have added a home button like Samsung's phones, instead of its three capacitive buttons.

The presence of the home button could also be due to an integration with a fingerprint scanner like on the Galaxy S6. The fingerprint scanner has quickly become a staple of the smartphone experience.

In terms of hardware, the Mi 5 is expected to be one of the most powerful Android phones on the planet, which is fair considering it is being positioned like one. Qualcomm's recently announced Snapdragon 820 processor is expected to be at the heart of the device, coupled with 3GB RAM and 32GB of internal memory.

Another version of the phone with 4GB RAM and 64GB of storage is also expected.

The phone is also expected to have a 16-megapixel rear camera with optical image stabilisation and a 13-megapixel camera on the front. The phone may use a 2K display. Reports also suggest, the phone could have a massive 3,600mAh battery. Xiaomi is also said to leverage Qualcomm's Quick Charge 3.0 technology.

In terms of software, it is almost certain that the phone would run on Android 6.0 Marshmallow running the latest build of Mi UI, which is Xiaomi's custom fork of Android.

The phone could be priced at 1,999 Yuan ( approx Rs 20,300) for the 3GB version and 2,299 Yuan (approx Rs 23,400) in China. The launch for the phone is expected to be in April 2016, which is mostly due to the fact that Qualcomm's processor is possibly delayed.

Xiaomi Mi 5

Dadri lynching: Akhlaq's fridge had mutton, not beef, says UP govt's report

NEW DELHI: A veterinary report filed by the Uttar Pradesh government has revealed that it was mutton and not beef in the refrigerator of Mohammad Akhlaq, who was lynched to death and his son critically injured over rumours that his family had consumed a dead calf's meat.
Akhlaq was dragged out of his home and beaten to death by a mob in Uttar Pradesh's Dadri outside New Delhi on September 29 this year. As he and his son were assaulted, the family members kept shouting there was no beef, but the mob did not listen to them.
The attack on Akhlaq's family followed a public announcement from the local temple that the family had slaughtered a calf and eaten its meat. Nearly a dozen people, including the son of a local BJP leader, have been booked for the killing.

According to Times Now, the Uttar Pradesh' veterinary department has confirmed that the meat found on Akhlaq's house was 'mutton' not 'beef'. Forensic lab test results, however, are still awaited.
Akhlaq's murder over beef had triggered massive outrage across the country, with a number of prominent writers returning their Sahitya Akademi awards in protest. A series of controversial statements and visits to Dadri by the BJP leaders kept the issue on the boil.
Top Comment

Law should be secular. It should not have different views for mutton or beef.

The chargesheet in the case filed in a magistrate court in Greater Noida last week has named 15 persons, including Vishal Rana, son of a local BJP leader.

Sunny Leone

Karenjit Kaur Vohra (born May 13, 1981),better known by her stage name Sunny Leone  is a former Indo-Canadian porn actress, Bollywood actress and Model.She has also used the stage name Karen Malhotra.

She was named Penthouse Pet of the Year in 2003, was a contract star for Vivid Entertainment, and was named by Maxim as one of the 12 top porn stars in 2010.Sunny Leone also appeared in censored advertisement of "I am Besharam"[(India's Online Adult Web Store) Her Porn website is still operated by Gamma Entertainment.

She has also played roles in independent mainstream events, films and television shows. Her first mainstream appearance was in 2005, when she worked as a red carpet reporter for the MTV Video Music Awards on MTV India. In 2011, she participated in the Indian reality television series Big Boss. She hosts the Indian reality show Splitsvilla.

In 2012 she made her Bollywood debut in Pooja Bhatt's erotic thriller Jism 2 (2012) and shifted her focus to mainstream acting which was followed up with Jackpot (2013), Ragini MMS 2 (2014) and Ek Paheli Leela (2015).

Apart from her acting career she has been part of activism campaigns including the Rock 'n' Roll Los Angeles Half-Marathon to raise money for the American Cancer Society and has also posed for a People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) ad campaign with rescued dog, encouraging pet owners to have their cats and dogs spayed and neutered.

Sunny Leone in 2010

Early life

Sunny Leone was born in Sarnia, Ontario to Sikh Punjabi parents.Her father was born in Tibet and raised in Delhi, while her mother (who died in 2008)was from Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh. As a young girl, she was very athletic and played street hockey with the boys.

Although the family was Sikh, her parents enrolled her in Catholic school as it was felt to be unsafe for her to go to public school. She lost her virginity to a basketball player at another school at 16,and discovered her bisexuality at age 18.When she was 13, her family moved to Fort Gratiot, Michigan, then to Lake Forest, California a year later, fulfilling her grandparents' dream that the family be together in one place.

Career

Before working in the porn industry, she first worked at a German bakery, a Jiffy Lube,and later a tax and retirement firm.

A black-haired woman wearing a yellow top and jeans sitting behind a table looking up at the camera.

Leone at the 2002 Adult Entertainment Expo, one of her earliest promotional appearances

While studying to be a pediatric nurse in Orange County, a classmate who was an exotic dancer introduced Leone to John Stevens, an agent who in turn introduced her to Jay Allen, a photographer for Penthouse magazine.[citation needed] When picking a name for her adult career, she has said that Sunny is her real name and Leone was picked by Bob Guccione, former owner of Penthouse magazine.She posed for Penthouse magazine, and was named Penthouse Pet of the Month for the March 2001 issue, followed by a feature in the Holiday 2001 edition of Hustler magazine as a Hustler Honey. She has also appeared in other magazines including Cheri, Mystique Magazine, High Society, Swank, AVN Online, Leg World, Club International and Lowrider, while her online credits include ModFX Models,Suze Randall,Ken Marcus and Mac & Bumble. Her pictorial credits also include working with stars like Adriana Sage, Jenna Jameson, Jelena Jensen and Aria Giovanni.

In 2003, she was named "Penthouse Pet of the Year" and starred in the video Penthouse Pets in Paradise alongside Tera Patrick and Kyla Cole. In 2005 Adam & Eve appointed her as their West Coast Internet Sales Representative.

That same year, Leone signed a three-year contract with Vivid Entertainment with which she transitioned into the world of hardcore pornography, stating that she would only do lesbian scenes. Her first movie released was titled Sunny and was released in December 2005. Her next movie, Virtual Vivid Girl Sunny Leone, was the first interactive title for Leone, who was the first Vivid Girl to make such a movie.Taking only four days to film,the movie won her her first AVN Award (Best Interactive DVD). She followed this with Sunny Loves Cher, which featured her first on-screen squirting, and The Female Gardner co-starring Mikayla Mendez and Daisy Marie.

Leone's last two movies under her contract with Vivid were It's Sunny in Brazil, which was filmed in Brazil. and The Sunny Experiment also starring Monique Alexander and Brea Lynn. The movies were released in October and December 2007 respectively.

In May 2007, upon re-signing her contract with Vivid for another six films, Leone agreed to perform for the first time with men on camera, but exclusively with her fiancé, Matt Erikson. That summer she also received breast augmentation,and shot her first movie under the new contract titled Sunny Loves Matt. The movie led to her to be nominated for three (out of six) AVN awards in 2009 in addition to being a choice for Female Performer of the Year. She followed up her first boy-girl title with The Other Side of Sunny in October 2008, which would be the last time she would perform with Erikson.

Sunny Leone at 2006 AVN Adult Entertainment Expo

In January 2008, Leone revealed that she was no longer exclusive to Erikson, and had done scenes with other actors, most notably Tommy Gunn, Charles Dera, James Deen and Voodoo.In 2009, Vivid released her only movie performing with other male actors titled "Sunny B/G Adventure". Her final release under contract with Vivid – "Undress Me", once again made her exclusive to performing with just one male actor-Daniel Webber.

Sunny Leone at AVN Awards 2006

In August 2009, she announced the launch of her own studio, Sunlust Pictures, with Daniel Weber as her partner.With her new venture Leone announced her plans to write, direct and create her own brand of adult movies with Vivid Entertainment as her distributor.Her first independent production, The Dark Side of the Sun, was released in March 2009, and was debuted at the Erotic Heritage Museum in Las Vegas.In June 2009, she held a casting call in Las Vegas for her second independent production titled Sunny Slumber Party (released September 2009).She followed up with three other self produced features Gia Portrait of a Porn Star (2010) which was nominated for multiple AVN awards, Roleplay (2011) and Goddess (2012) which featured her first anal sex scene.

No longer exclusive to Vivid, Leone has started working with other studios and performers since 2009. She has managed to leverage her online popularity by striking deals with firms like PPPcard, AdultPokerParty.com,Brickhouse, Flirt4Free, Totemcash and Imlive to sell and distribute her content over the internet and other media. She won the "Web Babe of the Year" at the 2008 Xbiz Awards. Her websites and business interests are run under her banner company Leone L.L.C. She indicated in an April 2012 interview that 80 per cent of the traffic on her website, and 60 per cent of her revenue comes from India.

In addition to her film career, Leone has been part of the Vivid Comedy Tour, and has modelled for the Vivid Footwear collection. Leone has also participated in events like the Vivid/ClubJenna Lingerie Bowl and Vivid's Hot Rod Night. Doc Johnson launched a pocket pal in 2006 moulded to her vagina, and in 2008 released the Sunny Leone Exciter vibrator. Control MFG currently uses Leone's image along with other Vivid girls to market their line of skateboards. She is paired with Gab Ekoe, one of the Team Control riders. She also indicated that she plans to launch her own line of lingerie and other Sunny-branded products including a diamond jewellery line.

Sunny Leone at Exxxotica 2009 Miami

In September 2009, an iPhone application consisting of a collection of non-nude photos, some videos and a porn star-penned blogwas approved by Apple for sale in the iTunes store, making it the first officially sanctioned application featuring a porn star.By February 2010, the app had been removed by Apple from the store.

Leone was voted number 13 (up from number 41 in 2007[65]) on Genesis magazine's "Top 100 Porn stars" list, number 34 on Desiclubs.com's Top 50 Coolest Desis of 2004,[67] and one of the "40 under 40" ranking on AVN Online magazine.[68] In 2010, she was named by Maxim as one of the 12 top female stars in porn.She was voted number 82 in the Top 99 Women for 2012 in AskMen.com's list.

In 2013, she announced her retirement from the adult industry stating "I am lucky that the audience is accepting me. I have come my way from there (porn industry). I don't have any plans as of now to go back there."

A police first information report was filed against her in May 2015 after a woman at Mumbai, India complained that the Adult-Film-turned Bollywood Star was destroying the Indian culture. Thane police at Ramnagar have booked her for sections 292, 292A, 294 which could land her into jail, fine or both. Senior police inspector JK Sawant from the cell said, "We are trying to contact the website's operator to get relevant details. We cannot block the website, but will ask the operator to remove objectionable content."

Leone at the 2002 Adult Entertainment Expo, one of her earliest promotional appearances

Sunny Leone at 2006 AVN Adult Entertainment Expo

Sunny Leone at AVN Awards 2006

Sunny Leone at Exxxotica 2009 Miami

Mainstream appearances

Leone's first mainstream appearance was in 2005, when she was a red carpet reporter for the MTV Awards on MTV India. She has also had a cameo in the film The Girl Next Door, performed in Ja Rule's video Livin' It Up and a video for Kidd Skilly. Other credits include E!'s "Wild On!" and the Sundance Film Festival's 'After Dark'.Leone was a contestant in the second season of the Fox reality show My Bare Lady 2: Open for Business, in which a group of adult actresses were given classes and training on how to pitch investment ideas and competed for success in the business world.In addition to filming her scene for Debbie Does Dallas in 2007, Leone was also part of a Showtime documentary of the same name detailing the production of the movie and the personal lives of its stars.

She indicated that for the right price she would seriously consider a career in Bollywood. She was courted by Indian directors in the past but felt uncomfortable with the roles that she would have played. Director Mohit Suri reportedly asked Leone to play the lead role in his film Kalyug, but instead cast Deepal Shaw as he could not afford Leone's $1 million acting fee. She has mentioned that Aamir Khan is her favorite Bollywood actor, and that over 60% of her fans are from South Asia.

Sunny at the PETA - Adopt a stray dog campaign.

In 2008, Leone announced that she would be starring in a mainstream action adventure movie titled Pirates Blood, which was shot in Oman. The shooting was completed in two weeks and was to be released in winter 2008. Leone also landed a role in Middle Men, producer Chris Mallick's indie feature about the birth of the online porn industry set for wide theatrical release in 2009. She appeared in the 2010 film The Virginity Hit playing a version of herself, where she is hired to take the virginity of the lead character.

Leone has made appearances at events such as the 2002 SEMA International Auto Salon, the 2002 Extreme Autofest Pomona and the 2006 World Series of Poker in Las Vegas.Sunny has also been the hostess at events in clubs like the Mansion in Miami and the Highlands in Hollywood.

In 2005, she was mentioned in Forbes magazine for a story on Vivid Entertainment. Leone has also been featured in mainstream publications like FHM, Front and Jane magazine. In 2007, along with the other Vivid Girls, she was seen in a 48' high holiday Billboard in Times Square at W. 48th Street and Seventh Avenue. Leone is also one of the Penthouse Pets who appears in the PlayStation Portable game Pocket Pool. She was also featured in a coffee table book titled Naked Ambition: An R Rated Look at an X Rated Industry by Michael Grecco.

Sunny Leone at a product endorsement event in Mumbai, 2013

In 2004, she was part of No More Bush Girls, in which she and several other popular adult actresses shaved off their pubic hair in protest of the George W. Bush presidency. In May 2008, she shot a promotional video for Declare Yourself, a nonprofit, nonpartisan voter registration campaign targeting 18- to 29-year-olds.She indicated that Barack Obama would be her choice in the 2008 U.S. presidential election, primarily because she felt he was more business friendly to the adult industry than his opponent John McCain. She also released a public service announcement on behalf of the ASACP, reminding adult webmasters to protect their sites from children by having an RTA label on it.

Leone has a strong interest in health and fitness, and has been featured in several mainstream fitness publications. Leone has modelled fitness clothing for the sports brand Fantasy Fitness and shared that she keeps her body in shape by working out as much as she can despite her busy schedule and as quoted in Men's Fitness magazine, "I try to eat very healthy – lots of vegetables, drinking my milk every day."

In 2013, Leone posed for a PETA ad campaign, encouraging dog and cat owners to have their pets spayed and neutered. In an interview for PETA India, Leone said, "I believe that every single dog should be spayed and neutered. You don't want to continue the cycle of homeless dogs or cats. And spaying and neutering also keeps them healthy

Bigg Boss

Leone with show host Sanjay Dutt after her eviction from the Bigg Boss house

In 2011, she participated in the Indian reality series Bigg Boss, entering the house on day 49. However she refused to divulge her porn star status, and replied to fellow house-mate Pooja Bedi that she was a model and a TV star in America for the last ten years or so.It was reported that she has caused a stir in the larger populacewith her Twitter feed gaining 8,000 new followers in just 2 days and Google saying searches for her experienced a "breakout".There have also been complaints lodged with the Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting alleging that the Colors TV channel was promoting pornography by having Leone appear on the show; among those who have filed are the Indian Artistes and Actors Forum and Anurag Thakur, member of Lok Sabha and head of the Bharatiya Janata Party's youth wing.

Sunny at the PETA - Adopt a stray dog campaign

Sunny Leone at a product endorsement event in Mumbai, 2013

Leone with show host Sanjay Dutt after her eviction from the Bigg Boss house

Indian cinema

During her stay in the Bigg Boss house, Sunny was approached by Bollywood film-maker Mahesh Bhatt who entered the house briefly to offer her the lead role in Jism 2 (the sequel to the 2003 film Jism). She accepted it, which resulted in Pooja Bhatt's production house, Fish Eye Network and Leone's agent discussing the movie further.[108] The first look of the film Jism 2 was released anticipating her entry in Bollywood.[109] Jism 2 was released on August 3, 2012, to weak critical reception but was commercially successful collecting almost US$5.7 million.[110] Sunny Leone signed her second Bollywood film which is Ekta Kapoor's Ragini MMS sequel, "Ragini MMS 2". Ragini MMS, a crossover horror movie was one of the most talked about sleeper hits of 2011.Sunny Leone featured in an item number in the Sanjay Gupta and Ekta Kapoor's 2013 film Shootout at Wadala. She further started filming for Kaizad Gustad's Jackpot in which she plays a femme fatale. Jackpot released on 13 December 2013 and was panned by critics.

Leone modeled for Apala Jewels at IIJW 2014

Her first release of 2014 was the much anticipated horror film Ragini MMS 2, which proved to be a box-office hit. Leone's performance received all round praise with critic Mohar Basu calling her work a "revelation".[118] Critic Taran Adarsh also noted that Leone," carries off her character with supreme confidence" In November 2013, she had confirmed that she would make her Tamil film debut in Vadacurry which released in May 2014 and featured her in a special appearance.[120] She next appeared in the item number Pink Lips for the film Hate Story 2, .After giving a hit number Pink Lips, she appeared once again in Shake That Booty opposite Mika Singh from his film Balwinder Singh Famous Ho Gaya. She made her acting debut in the Telugu film industry by appearing in a cameo in Current Theega opposite Manchu Manoj and Rakul Preet Singh where she played a school teacher.

Leone then appeared in item song Sesamma Bagilu Tegiyamma in Kannada film DK, which marked her debut in Kannada film industry. In April 2015, Leone appeared in Bobby Khan's musical thriller Ek Paheli Leela, where she portrayed dual roles as Leela, a village belle and Meera, a supermodel from Milan. The film was released on April 10, 2015.[124][125] The film met with mixed to negative reviews with collections of ₹27.47 crore (US$4.1 million). After a little gap, post the release of Ek Paheli Leela , she appeared in Devang Dholakia's Kuch Kuch Locha Hai was released on May 8, 2015. She essayed the role of a film star opposite Ram Kapoor, Evelyn Sharma and Navdeep Chabbra. The film emerged to be a critical and commercial failure. She did her second Kannada song "Kamakshi" from the film Luv U Alia.Last in 2015, she appeared in a cameo in Akshay Kumar's Singh is Bling.

Upcoming projects

As of 2015, Leone had several projects in production. She has completed work on Milap Zaveri's adult comedy Mastizaade, all set to release on January 29, 2016.She has also completed filming for Dholakia's action thriller Tina and Lolo, awaiting release.[132] Leone is currently filming for Rajeev Chaudary's Beiimaan Love opposite Rajneesh Duggal.

Leone modeled for Apala Jewels at IIJW 2014

Personal life

In June 2006, Leone became an American citizen, but stated she planned to remain a dual citizen of Canada.On 14 April 2012, Leone announced that she was now a resident of India explaining in an interview to The New Indian Express that she was an Overseas Citizen of India and that she was eligible for overseas citizenship because her parents lived in India. She applied for it prior to filming Jism 2.

Sunny Leone and her husband Daniel Weber arriving in India to promote Jism 2

Although bisexual, she has stated that she prefers men. Leone was engaged to Matt Erikson, a vice-president of marketing at Playboy Enterprises but they broke up in 2008. Sunny Leone had dated stand-up comedian Russell Peters for a brief period in 2008. She mentioned in an interview at the start of 2011 that she was married to Daniel Weber.[146] During her stay in the Bigg Boss house later that same year, Leone indicated that she had married; Leone said she 'purposely arrived late' to their first date as she was not impressed with him, but he changed her mind by sending 24 roses to her hotel room.

In 2010, Leone's father died of cancer, which he had been first diagnosed with in 1999. In 2011, Leone along with Monique Alexander and Keni Styles ran in the Rock 'n' Roll Los Angeles Half-Marathon to raise money for the American Cancer Society.[citation needed]

A 2008 Eye Weekly article reported that "Leone does her best to maintain a link to Sikh traditions, even if more in theory than in practice. But she's unlikely to disavow her career path due to religion" and that Leone said "Girls will leave the industry claiming that they found God. Well, the fact is, God has always been with them the entire time." In a 2010 interview, she said

It's a community-based religion. You walk into a temple and you're greeted with the utmost respect... But, just like any religion it doesn't want you to shoot adult material. I mean, I grew up going to temple every Sunday. When my parents found out they knew my personality which was very independent. Even if they tried to stop me or tried to steer me the right way they would have lost their daughter. I'm too headstrong. And it wasn't a plan. It just happened and my career and everything just kept getting bigger and bigger.

Sunny Leone and her husband Daniel Weber arriving in India to promote jism 2

News 

Taking pictures with Sunny Leone makes me look bad because she's stunning, says Priyanka Chopra

Posted on: 05:20 PM IST Dec 26, 2015

Mumbai: Actress Priyanka Chopra, who will next be seen in Prakash Jha's forthcoming film 'Jai Gangaajal', says that standing next to the former Indo-Canadian adult film star Sunny Leone makes her look 'bad' as the latter is 'stunning'.

"I love how things are sensationalised out of context! Standing and taking pics with Sunny Leone makes me look bad cause she is stunning! Lol!" Priyanka tweeted on Friday night.

Actress Priyanka Chopra, who will next be seen in Prakash Jha's forthcoming film 'Jai Gangaajal', says that standing next to the former Indo-Canadian adult film star Sunny Leone makes her look 'bad' as the latter is 'stunning'.

#mastizaade #priyanka chopra #Sunny Leone

I love how things r sensationalised out of context! Standing and taking pics with @SunnyLeone makes me look bad cause she is stunning! Lol!

— PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) December 26, 2015

Earlier this week it was reported that the 'Quantico' star did not wish to be photographed with the 'Jism 2' actress.

Sunny, who is prepping up for director Milap Zaveri's upcoming sex-comedy 'Mastizaade', where she will perform a double role, said she 'feels the same' about Priyanka.

@priyankachopra I feel the same about you darlin. Media can be mean sometimes.They just wish it was them taking pics with you. Lol xoxo

— Sunny Leone (@SunnyLeone) December 26, 2015

"I feel the same about you darling," Sunny told Priyanka in a tweet. "Media can be mean sometimes. They just wish it was them taking pics with you. Lol xoxo."

It's merry Christmas for Shah Rukh Khan and the 'Dilwale' team

The view on Shah Rukh Khan, Rohit Shetty and Varun Dhawan's 'Dilwale' may be polarised, but these Bollywood men know their business. Their film, which opened on December 18, is the first choice for family audiences. It released on a non-holiday with other movies and some serious external disturbances. However, the family entertainer not only clocked in a brilliant first weekend and first week collection, but also registered the biggest weekend of 2015 overseas.

Everyone knows that SRK and Rohit are a magical combination. Their 'Chennai Express' is sitting pretty in the Rs 200-crore club. Their current outing, which has Kajol teaming up with her favourite co-star Shah Rukh and Varun serenading Kriti Sanon, is also headed in the direction of big box office numbers.A trade source says, "Today itself, the film will be crossing the Rs 100-crore mark in India. It is a whopper overseas and this is just the beginning. The Christmas and New Year vacation has begun. Since last night, we have seen a massive jump in the figures. Besides registering highest opening in the UK, Gulf, Australia and Malaysia, the film is also in the top 10 box office charts of USA and New Zealand. SRK is the undisputed king of the overseas market as far as Bollywood goes. He has a massive fan following in many European markets."

READ ALSO:

Shah Rukh Khan: Won't apologise for comment, but regret 'Dilwale' collection hit

Varun's popularity as a young heartthrob, too, has added to the collections with his fans rooting for his latest outing. Rohit, who co-produced and directed 'Dilwale', is a happy man. He says, "My audience, which basically consists of families and young children, has favoured my film. We stand vindicated with the box office collections." Asked about the experience of collaborating with Shah Rukh for the second time, Rohit states, "I enjoyed working with SRK in 'Chennai Express'. 'Dilwale' has strengthened our bond. I have not seen a superstar with these levels of energy and commitment. I must also add that working with Varun for the first time was a fabulous experience. For someone who is so young, he has a loyal fan base. He does not take anything for granted and is always willing to go the extra mile." With a big smile, the filmmaker signs off in his signature style, "I thank the audience, especially the kids, for making 'Dilwale' what it is."

dilwale

RIP Sadhana: Her best roles had her as an enigma wrapped in mystery

From her Audrey Hepburn-styled fringe to her critically acclaimed films, veteran actor Sadhana was a trailblazer in many ways. The actor died on Friday at the age of 74 in Mumbai on Friday. She leaves behind a legacy.

Sadhana started her career with a Sindhi film Abaana in 1960 for which she was paid Re 1. She was spotted by film producer Sasadhar Mukherjee who was looking for a fresh face with whom he could launch his son, Joy. The result was Love in Shimla and an iconic onscreen pair .

Sadhana portrayed grey characters when the leading heroes of the era shied away from the roles. Two of her best films -- Woh Kaun Thi and Mera Saaya -- had her delivering performances which were miles away from what leading ladies were expected to do in her time.

Read: You can neither forget nor ignore that hairstyle

Not only a good actor, she was also the first style icon of sorts in Indian cinema who had a hairstyle named after -- the Sadhana cut. The actress was among top stars in the ’60s and ’70s and acted opposite Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Balraj Sahni and Manoj Kumar among others. Here are her best works…

Woh Kaun Thi: Sadhana’s tour de force and arguably her best film, Woh Kaun Thi casts Sadhana as a mysterious woman who is helped by Manoj Kumar on a dark, stormy night. She vanishes into a graveyard and director keeps us and Kumar wondering if the woman we just met was real or an apparition. The hit song Naina Barse Rimjhim was intrinsically linked to the mystery of the film.

Sadhana in a still from Woh Kaun Thi.

Mera Saaya: Another mystery by Raj Khosla, this one cast Sadhana as the loving wife of Sunil Dutt who dies in his arms after an illness. Only she comes back from the dead and approaches the police to be reunited with her husband. The famous Jhumkaa Giraa Re and Tu Jahan Jahan Chalega tracks are from the film.

The actress with Sunil Dutt in Mera Saaya.

Raaj Kumar: Shammi Kapoor played a ‘clown’ prince to Sadhana’s tribal princess in this musical romance. Directed by K Shankar, this film had evergreen music with hits like Aaja Aai Bahaar.

Ek Phool Do Mali: A mountaineering student falls in love with a girl (played by Sadhana) and marriage is on the cards till he is caught in an avalanche. He is presumed dead and she is pregnant. A twist in the tale makes this film a must-watch.

With Sanjay Khan in Ek Phool Do Mali.

Hum Dono: A story of mistaken identity with war in the backdrop, it has Sadhana as the love of Dev Anand’s life. The only problem is another woman assumes Dev is actually her husband. The music of this film is unforgettable.

With Dev Anand in Hum Dono.

Waqt: This Yash Chopra-directed family tearjerker had Sadhana as Meena, the recipient of Raaj Kumar and Sunil Dutt’s affections. A superhit with melodious numbers, it is still referenced for its dialogues and performances.

With Sunil Dutt in Waqt.

Sadhana was known for her signature hair style as well as her performances.

Pope calls in Christmas message for unity against militant atrocities

Pope Francis urged the world in his Christmas message on Friday to unite to end atrocities by Islamist militants that he said were causing immense suffering in many countries.

* Pope marks third Christmas since 2013 election

* "Urbi et Orbi" address to Rome and the world

* Tight security at St. Peter's Square

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Security was tight at the Vatican as Francis, marking the third Christmas since his election in 2013, read his traditional Christmas Day "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) address from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Pope Francis waves during the "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

Pope Francis waves during the "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

Tens of thousands of people had to have their bags checked as they entered the Vatican area and then go through airport-style screening if they wanted to enter St. Peter's Square.

Counter-terrorist police with machine guns discreetly patrolled the area in unmarked vans with dark windows.

After calling for an end to the civil wars in Syria and Libya, the pope said: "May the attention of the international community be unanimously directed to ending the atrocities which in those countries, as well as in Iraq, Libya, Yemen and sub-Saharan Africa, even now reap numerous victims, cause immense suffering and do not even spare the historical and cultural patrimony of entire peoples."

He was clearly referring to Islamic State militants who have carried out numerous attacks in those countries and destroyed many cultural heritage sites. In October, Islamic State militants blew up the Arch of Triumph, a jewel in the exquisite collection of ruins in the Syrian oasis city of Palmyra.

Pope Francis delivers a "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

Pope Francis delivers a "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

BRUTAL TERRORISM

The pontiff condemned recent "brutal acts of terrorism," including the Nov. 13 attacks by Islamist militants that killed 130 people in Paris, and the downing of a Russian plane over Egypt's Sinai peninsula that killed 224 people on Oct. 31. Both were claimed by Islamic State.

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to leads "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to leads "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican December 25, 2015. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

"Only God's mercy can free humanity from the many forms of evil, at times monstrous evil, which selfishness spawns in our midst," he said. "The grace of God can convert hearts and offer mankind a way out of humanly insoluble situations.".

He called for peace between Israelis and Palestinians in the area where Jesus was born.

"Where peace is born, there is no longer room for hatred and for war. Yet precisely where the incarnate Son of God came into the world, tensions and violence persist, and peace remains a gift to be implored and built," he said.

He asked God to bring consolation and strength to Christians who are being persecuted around the world and called for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, South Sudan and Ukraine.

Francis said the human dignity of far too many people around the world was trampled on, including that of refugees and migrants.

"Even today great numbers of men and women are deprived of their human dignity and, like the child Jesus, suffer cold, poverty, and rejection," he said.

"May our closeness today be felt by those who are most vulnerable, especially child soldiers, women who suffer violence, and the victims of human trafficking and the drug trade."

Pope Francis

LIVE: PM Modi leaves for India, Nawaz Sharif sees him off at airport

In an unprecedented diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Lahore on Friday evening to meet his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif on his way back from Afghanistan. Earlier in the day, he made an announcement on Twitter about the stopover to meet Sharif, who is incidentally celebrating his birthday on December 25.

READ: Security in Lahore on high alert ahead of PM Modi’s visit

PM Modi lands in Pakistan. Do you think this is a diplomatic victory for the PM?

— The Indian Express (@IndianExpress) December 25, 2015

Here are the LIVE updates: 

6:50 pm:

PM Narendra Modi and PM Nawaz Sharif leave from latter’s residence #ModiInLahore (source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/RTw0IYvEfn

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

6:30 pm: We are clear that the PM is there to promote his own interests and not national interest: Anand Sharma, Congress.

SEE PICS: Modi in Lahore: Nawaz welcomes birthday guest

6:20 pm:

Beyond the noise, a personal connect. The Prime Ministers discuss #IndiaPakistan relations in Raiwind pic.twitter.com/kzXNmwRqys

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

6:10 pm:

Family matters. PM visits PM Sharif’s home in a special gesture, where his grand-daughter’s wedding is being held pic.twitter.com/nWj9hQvugy

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

6:00 pm:

In a first, both PMs flew together in chopper to Raiwind, home of PM Nawaz Sharif pic.twitter.com/z2JQLjQFB6

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

5:55 pm:

Birthday wishes for PM Sharif, best wishes for #IndiaPakistan relations. PM @narendramodi with PM Sharif pic.twitter.com/yrz83dikB9

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

5:53 pm:

WATCH: PM Narendra Modi & Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif at latter’s residence in Lahore (source: PTV) http://t.co/rBnseJ6NlM

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

5:50 pm: “We do not have any issues with relations improving between India and Pakistan… No right thinking persons shall have any reservation on it. However, the two countries have to address the Kashmir issue as per wishes and aspirations of the people if these endeavours are to succeed,” Geelani told PTI.

5:45 pm:

PM Narendra Modi & Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif at latter’s residence in Lahore (source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/yQ6Y3mp10l

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

5:40 pm: 

PM Narendra Modi & Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif at latter’s residence in Lahore (source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/ZpDyqcck7D

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

5:37 pm: AAP wondered as to what was the change that prompted Modi to visit Lahore when BJP opposed talks with Pakistan.

5:34 pm: A PM House spokesman here said the Indian premier would stay in Lahore for about two hours.

5:32 pm: Opposition reacts to PM Modi’s Pakistan visit. Read: JD (U) ‘shocked’, Omar welcomes gesture

5:28 pm: The last visit to Pakistan by an Indian prime minister was in 2004 by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose 91st birthday fell today and who is credited with bringing about a thaw in relations with Islamabad.

5:23 pm: The agenda of the meeting is not known but the two leaders are expected to discuss major issues which have rocked ties between the two countries.

5:20 pm: Modi was accorded a red carpet welcome as PM’s special IAF Boeing 737 plane made a smooth touchdown at 4.20 local time(4.50 IST). He then took a chopper to proceed to Sharif’s Raiwind palatial residence in the outskirts of Lahore.

5:12 pm:

WATCH: PM Narendra Modi arrives in Lahore, received by Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif (Source: PTV) http://t.co/MAssiVTExX

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

5:10 pm:

PM Narendra Modi arrives in Lahore, received by Pak PM Nawaz Sharif (Source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/aBILcTJsyA

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

5.05 pm: Sharif present at airport to greet Modi. The two leaders board a chopper on way to the Pakistan PM’s residence.

PM @narendramodi has landed in Lahore.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 25, 2015

PM Narendra Modi lands in Lahore: PTV pic.twitter.com/88NsEanIU5

— ANI (@ANI_news) December 25, 2015

4:22 pm: “I am stunned and shocked. At this moment, I can think of beheaded Hemraj,” said JD(U) leader KC Tyagi.

4:20 pm: JD(U) said it was “stunned” by the decision, especially in the wake of violations by the neighbouring country on the border, including the beheading of an Indian jawan.

Indo-Pak relations have been plagued by knee-jerk reactions & a lack of consistency. Looking towards two PMs to correct this this time.

— Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) December 25, 2015

The re-engagement with Pakistan is a good step & a very welcome development. However more than grand gestures we need consistency.

— Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) December 25, 2015

Now waiting for the statement from J&K Govt claiming that Mufti Syed was the one who forced PM Modi to visit Lahore today.

— Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) December 25, 2015

Farewell Kabul! PM @narendramodi departs from Afghanistan, is seen off by CEO @DrAAbdullah, pic.twitter.com/mtp6NIRuvU

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

CEO Abdullah and PM @narendramodi at the airport. PM will travel to Lahore where he will meet PM Nawaz Sharif. pic.twitter.com/NJv0IXoGse

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 25, 2015

Long time friend of India, architect of bilateral relations, PM @narendramodi with former President @KarzaiH pic.twitter.com/kEds5q4dyw

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

Looking forward to meeting PM Nawaz Sharif in Lahore today afternoon, where I will drop by on my way back to Delhi.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 25, 2015

Bridge builders and changemakers. PM spends time with Indians who work for the reconstruction of Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/qwlyD1SuND

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) December 25, 2015

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj commended the move, calling it ‘statesman-like.’

That’s like a statesman. Padosi se aise hi rishte hone chahiyen. http://t.co/dM26am9tWf

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) December 25, 2015

This will be the first visit by PM Modi to Pakistan after he was voted to power last year.

Read: Mapping PM Modi’s foreign trips in 2015

Sharif had made his visit to India last year when he attended PM Modi’s swearing-in ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. Both leaders have conducted several meetings on the sidelines of summits and conferences in foreign countries.

Click to read in Hindi: PM मोदी काबुल एयरपोर्ट के लिए रवाना हुए, लाहौर एयरपोर्ट पर शरीफ के साथ 2 घंटे की मुलाकात 

The relations between India and Pakistan have witnessed some positive developments after a chill lasting several months. The two countries recently decided to launch a comprehensive dialogue after PM Modi and Sharif met on the sidelines of the Paris climate change conference.

Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj had earlier met Sharif in Islamabad at the Heart of Asia conference.

PM Modi had landed earlier today in Kabul where he held talks with President Ashraf Ghani and inaugurated the new Parliament building. He had also made a visit to Moscow where he held comprehensive discussions with President Vladimir Putin and inked several deals.

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif greets PM Modi in Lahore.