Strong earthquake kills 19 people in Turkey and Greek islands

14 Sept 01:10 Key points summarised by AI

A powerful earthquake, registering up to 7.0 magnitude, struck the Aegean Sea, causing 19 fatalities across Turkey and Greece, with over 700 injured and numerous buildings collapsing.
The quake triggered "small tsunamis" that deluged coastal areas in Izmir, Turkey, and the Greek island of Samos, sweeping debris inland and causing significant flooding.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Izmir, where authorities are setting up temporary shelters, as the region, known for its seismic activity, grapples with the aftermath.
The disaster prompted a rare display of solidarity between the leaders of Turkey and Greece, who offered mutual aid despite their ongoing political disputes.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.