The watercourse, known as Pacu Jalur, has evolved into a symbol of social status and cultural significance in Indonesia. It was adorned with distinctive ornaments over time, transforming its original function. The article highlights the growing popularity of Pacu Jalur after it gained attention through viral videos showcasing "aura farming", a unique practice where people cultivate and display exotic plants.
Peñico Raymi Festival Revives Ancient Andean Traditions
7.12.25
The Caral Archaeological Zone in Peru's Lima region is set to host the first Peñico Raymi festival on July 12th, a replica of a traditional Andean celebration. Located in the Supe Valley, Peñico was a "City of Social Integration" from around 1800-1500 BC, connecting coastal and mountain populations through trade networks. The site is significant as it was home to the Caral culture, one of the oldest pre-Hispanic civilizations in America, which flourished between 3000-1800 BC. Hematite, a mineral used to make red pigment, played a crucial role in Peñico's prestige and cosmology. A ceremonial hall discovered at the site is now on display, with its exact limits still unknown.
Prada Partners with MACCIA on Kolhapur Chappal Revival
7.12.25
Prada has acknowledged its use of Kolhapuri chappals in its Spring-Summer 2026 collection, following criticism from MACCIA President Lalit Gandhi. Gandhi had written to Prada on June 24, highlighting the cultural and geographical indications (GI) status of Kolhapuri chappals and proposing a collaborative approach. Prada responded positively, leading to plans for a partnership that includes a delegation visit to Mumbai and Kolhapur, as well as setting up craft documentation units and knowledge-sharing sessions. The collaboration aims to give Kolhapuri artisans global visibility, value, and respect, with Gandhi suggesting that Prada buy directly from artisans at Rs 10,000 per pair, tripling their income.
Quranic Calligraphy Shines at Holy Quran Academy Exhibition
7.12.25
A recent exhibition at the Holy Quran Academy showcases rare Arabic calligraphy manuscripts and artefacts, highlighting the significance of the Quran as a linguistic and aesthetic reference in shaping the development of the Arabic language. The exhibition, part of the SPL's efforts to promote Arab and Islamic cultural heritage, features artworks created by skilled scribes using traditional reed pens and inkwells, reflecting the transformations in Arab and Islamic society over time.
Raja Kumari Unveils Empowering Collection with KALKI
7.12.25
Raja Kumari has collaborated with designer label KALKI to launch a powerful collection that celebrates individuality and inclusivity. The collection features bold silhouettes and bigger purpose, making space for every woman's story.
SAG-AFTRA Proposes AI Replication Protections for Performers
7.12.25
The video game industry is facing significant changes with the new contract proposed by SAG-AFTRA, which aims to address concerns over AI use in games. The union seeks to protect performers' rights and prevent their likenesses from being replicated by AI without consent or fair compensation. The proposed contract includes restrictions on when and how digital replicas can be created, requiring written permission from the performer and compensating them for the time spent creating the replica. This move is seen as a historic step towards securing "industry-leading AI provisions" and "historic wage increases," with performers hoping to secure their place in the industry despite the rise of AI technology.
Santorini's iconic blue-domed churches are not only visually stunning but also hold historical significance, with many dating back to the 19th century. The Greek island is known for its unique architecture, which has been influenced by various cultures throughout history, including the Venetians and Ottomans. Visitors can experience the local culture by enjoying traditional cuisine and wine, such as moussaka and Assyrtiko wine, while taking in the breathtaking sunsets that have made Santorini a popular tourist destination.
A plaque in Singapore, created by artist Sean Dunston, has been modified to include an anti-smoking message after concerns were raised about normalizing smoking. The plaque's original intention was to depict a Samsui Woman in peace, but it now also warns of the dangers of smoking, with changes made at the request of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and in consultation with Dunston and his landlord.
Srebrenica Massacre Victims Honored with Annual Rites
7.12.25
The remains of Srebrenica victims are still being excavated and buried annually on July 11, with a recent exhibition at the memorial center highlighting individual stories through artifacts found in mass graves and forests around the town. The "Lives behind the fields of death" exhibition, featuring recorded testimonies from survivors, aims to humanize the genocide by focusing on individual lives, including young people, men, women, and those with dreams and ambitions. A recent burial ceremony marked the laying to rest of seven more victims, while a UN resolution adopted last year commemorates the Srebrenica genocide on its anniversary, despite Bosnia's Serbs and Serbia refusing to acknowledge it as such.