Latest news with #Uzbekistani
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First Post
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- First Post
Freestyle Chess Las Vegas: Here's why Gukesh isn't part of the action alongside Praggnanandhaa, Arjun and Vidit
The Las Vegas leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour, was off to an explosive start on Wednesday with tour leader Magnus Carlsen crashing out in the group stage after losing against R Praggnanandhaa among others. Here's why world champion D Gukesh isn't part of the action. read more The fourth leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour is underway in Las Vegas, USA, and has already witnessed some earth-shattering results, with world No 1 Magnus Carlsen knocked out in the group stage after winning the Paris and the Karlsruhe legs of the tour. Norwegian chess icon Carlsen, who was aiming to complete a hat-trick of victories in the ongoing tour, finished fifth in Group White – one of two groups comprising eight players each – after three defeats including against India's R Praggnanandhaa as well as against Levon Aronian in the tie-breaks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Praggnanandhaa progressed to the knockouts along with Aronian and Uzbekistani GMs Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Javokhir Sindarov, and will have the luxury of choosing his quarter-final opponent having finished top of the group. As for Group Black, the other group, Paris runner-up Hikaru Nakamura finished on top with six points followed by fellow American GMs Hans Niemann and Fabiano Caruana and India's Arjun Erigaisi. Why D Gukesh isn't part of the action in 'Sin City' Amid all the drama on the opening day of the Las Vegas Grand Slam, one couldn't help but notice the absence of one big name – D Gukesh. And being the reigning Classical world champion, Gukesh is an automatic entry to all of the Grand Slam Tour events, so the possibility of the 19-year-old failing to make the cut does not arise. Gukesh, it turns out, has opted out of the American leg of the tour after his underwhelming performances in previous Freestyle Chess events. The teenager, who had finished third at Norway Chess as well as at SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia, had failed to win a single game in the opening leg, which took place in the month of February in the seaside resort of Weissenhaus in northern Germany. Also Read | D Gukesh's withdrawal from Las Vegas expected, says Freestyle Chess CEO Gukesh did open his account two months later in Paris, but finished at the bottom of the standings along with compatriot Vidit Gujrathi, who is among the participants in the ongoing event in 'Sin City'. Instead, he has opted to take a break for now and is setting his sights on the Grand Chess Tour, which returns to action next month with the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz and the Sinquefield Cup, both of which take place in St. Louis, USA. Gukesh is currently fifth on the GCT standings and will be hoping to make the cut for the Finals that take place in Sao Paolo, Brazil in September. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
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First Post
11-07-2025
- Sport
- First Post
Humpy, Harika among Indians advancing to third round of FIDE Women's World Cup; Vantika held to tie-breaks by Ushenina
Koneru Humpy defeated Afruza Khamdamova by a 1.5-0.5 scoreline after holding the Uzbekistani to a stalemate in Game 2 on Thursday while Harika Dronavalli triumphed in an all-Indian clash against PV Nandhidhaa. Vantika Agrawal, meanwhile, faces Anna Ushenina in the tie-breaks after losing Game 2. read more Indian Grandmasters Koneru Humpy, Harika Dronavalli and R Vaishali advanced to the third round of the FIDE Women's Chess World Cup in Batumi, Georgia on Thursday while International Master Vantika Agrawal's second-round clash against Ukraine's Anna Ushenina has gone into the tie-breaks after the latter bounced back following a stunning defeat in the opening game. Humpy, Vaishali, Vantika and Divya Deshmukh needed a draw to advance to the third round after winning Game 1 of their second-round clashes on Wednesday. And world rapid champion Humpy did precisely that against Uzbekistan's Afruza Khamdamova, holding her opponent to a draw while playing with white pieces to win the second round by a 1.5-0.5 scoreline. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD IM Divya triumphed over Georgia's Kesaria Mgeladze by an identical scoreline, having also played out a draw in her second game after winning the first. Vaishali, meanwhile, did one better and advanced to the next round with a 2-0 victory over Maili-Jade Ouellet after winning her second game against the Canadian, this time with black pieces. Harika wins all-Indian clash against Nandhidhaa Harika, meanwhile, defeated PV Nandhidhaa in an all-Indian encounter by a 1.5-0.5 scoreline after she won Game 2 – which had become something of a shoot-out after the two played out a draw on the previous day. The 34-year-old, a two-time World Cup bronze medallist, used her experience to keep Nandhidhaa's white pieces at bay and force a stalemate, resulting in the latter becoming only the second Indian after Kiran Manisha Mohanty to bow out of the event. 📷 Anna Shtourman, Andrei Anosov — International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) July 10, 2025 Vantika, meanwhile, faces former women's world champion Ushenina in the tie-breaks after finishing on level terms at the end of the two Classical games. The tie-breaks will get underway with two 15-minute Rapid games with a 10-second increment and will be two more games with 10+10 time controls. In case the scores are still tied, the two players will compete in two 5+3 Blitz games, which then will be followed by 3+2 games until one player finishes on top. Also competing in the tie-breaks on Friday is Padmini Rout, who was held to a second consecutive draw by Switzerland's Alexandra Kosteniuk. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Round 3 of the ongoing tournament gets underway on Saturday, 12 July.
Korea Herald
30-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Uzbekistan's platform startup Uzum looks to Coupang, Kakao as model
Uzum ecosystem a gateway for Uzbekistani market entry for Korean businesses, says co-founder Korea Herald correspondent TASHKENT, Uzbekistan — Korean companies can use the ecosystem of Uzum, Uzbekistan's only billion-dollar startup, to enter Central Asian markets, says Nikolay Seleznev, co-founder and strategic head of digital commerce at Uzum. Uzum is an integrated platform offering e-commerce, financial technology and banking services for individuals and small and midsized enterprises. Its services include a marketplace, express delivery, traditional and digital banking, buy-now-pay-later, a car purchase platform and an app for entrepreneurs. Known as Uzbekistan's only unicorn startup — valued at over $1 billion — it is spearheading the country's digital transformation by drawing inspiration from proven ecosystem models like Korea's Coupang and Kakao, while adapting to local needs. Seleznev said the business model itself may not be entirely new, but localization is key to Uzum's success. 'I draw a lot of inspiration from Korean companies like Coupang and Kakao. These are excellent ecosystem-based models,' Seleznev told The Korea Herald in an interview. 'Of course, we're not copying anyone 100 percent. You can't simply replicate a model from another country. You have to localize it,' he said. The company offers next-day delivery, an expanding food delivery service, a digital bank with millions of users and consumer credit products — targeting a market that had long lacked access to modern digital services, according to Seleznev. Describing Uzum's model as 'book-stick-monetize,' Seleznev said the platform serves as a retail backbone in a country of 40 million and a gateway for Korean companies — especially in cosmetics, fast-moving consumer goods and electronics — seeking market access. He noted existing partnerships with Korean brands and praised Korean culture after a recent visit. 'On the business side, Korean brands are already popular in our marketplace. But beyond products, I believe there is even greater potential in financial services,' he pointed out. 'We know of several prominent Korean financial institutions, and I believe our story in Uzbekistan may resonate with potential partners from Korea,' Seleznev said, highlighting opportunities for fintech collaboration. Uzum is the first company in Uzbekistan to be valued at over $1 billion. Founded about four years ago, the company invested in its own logistics infrastructure, warehouses and pickup points in a market that previously lacked such facilities. The mission is to serve the underbanked and underserved population across Uzbekistan, says Seleznev. 'In fintech and finance, you need money to make money. That's why we are actively seeking reputable, trusted partners to join us on this journey,' he said. The Uzum ecosystem is a gateway for Uzbek market entry for Korean businesses, said the co-founder. Seleznev said his key focus is shaping Uzum's long-term strategy, emphasizing its two-sided ecosystem that serves both consumers and SMEs. With over 16,000 merchants, 2,500 restaurants and thousands of retail outlets using its buy-now-pay-later services, Uzum aims to be a trusted, convenient gateway for doing business in Uzbekistan — though it is just getting started. 'Come and do business in Uzbekistan,' Seleznev said, inviting Korean companies. 'It's one of the few places in the world today that offers such tremendous opportunity.' Uzbekistan boasts a population of 40 million, with 60 percent under the age of 30. The country's gross domestic product is growing at a rate of 6.5 to 7 percent annually, inflation is under control and the national currency is appreciating against the US dollar. 'The market is ready, and the consumers are ready,' Seleznev affirmed. Uzum is supporting Uzbekistan's digital vision by training local information technology talent through initiatives like the Uzum Academy, with many graduates joining the company. sanjaykumar@
Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Keeping the tune alive: How Lucknow's Gharanas continue to evolve through centuries
Behind the melodies infused with the rich musical traditions of Lucknow's Gharanas lies a story of endurance, evolution and innovation. These Gharanas, some of which have flourished for over three centuries, have borne witness to the world's transformation—from the dawn of the industrial revolution to the age of artificial intelligence. June 21 every year is being celebrated as the World Music Day On the occasion of World Music Day which falls on June 21, Khalifas and Ustads from Lucknow's renowned Gharanas share the enduring journey for preserving and expanding these musical legacies: innovation rooted in tradition and global promotion without losing identity. Ilmas Hussain, Khalifa of the Lucknow Tabla Gharana, said the Gharana is among the most prominent in the country. It is credited with influencing the creation of the Farrukhabad and Banaras Gharanas and is known for its unique style of playing the tabla using all ten fingers. 'The Gharana was established under the patronage of the Nawabs in the mid-18th century and has continued to evolve with the fast-changing world,' said Hussain. 'In the age of rock and jazz, we have stayed rooted while branching out—collaborating with Flamenco, Uzbekistani, and Afghanistani music. These fresh approaches have helped us stay relevant and promote our Gharana globally.' Ustad Gulshan Bharti, head of the Qawwal Bacchon Ka Gharana, said their music—deeply influenced by Sufism—has always focused on Swar (notes), Taal (rhythm) and Laya (tempo), making their Qawwalis both spiritual and engaging. 'We've constantly experimented with different musical forms, including classical, opera, and jazz. This rhythmic diversity keeps our music fresh, never monotonous,' said Bharti. 'But our roots remain intact—we only add what enhances the essence.' Irfan Muhammad Khan, khalifa of the Lucknow Shahjahanpur Sarod Gharana, remains committed to preserving the purity of classical forms. 'Concerts and international tours have helped us sustain the legacy of the Gharana. When we travel, listeners deeply appreciate the authenticity we bring. Even my students are actively working to keep the tradition alive,' Khan said. Prof Jayant Khot, president of the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi and a member of the Gwalior Gharana, believes that the survival of Gharanas over the centuries lies in their ability to diversify musically. 'The Akademi is also doing its part to promote various Gharanas across the state through summer workshops. This helps cultivate a love for playing and listening to music, especially among children and the general public,' Khot said. However, the picture isn't entirely rosy. Siddiq Khan, the sole surviving Nakkara player from the Lucknow Nakkara Gharana, paints a more sobering view. 'I'm trying to uphold the legacy of my forefathers,' he said. 'But it's disheartening when people don't even know the difference between a Nakkara and a Nagada. Not many are coming forward to learn this art.'
Newsweek
19-06-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
China Goes on Diplomatic Offensive as Israel-Iran War Distracts America
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. As Israel and Iran exchanged missile fire on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Central Asian countries to deepen cooperation under China's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative—marking the latest step in what analysts call Beijing's diplomatic offensive—and highlighted in a recent podcast by the China-Global South Project (CGSP). Newsweek reached out to the Chinese embassy via email with a request for comment. Why It Matters China's global influence continues to expand, particularly in the developing world—often at the expense of the United States. This trend has accelerated under U.S. President Donald Trump's second administration, which has withdrawn from a range of traditional U.S. leadership initiatives and soft power programs, including the World Health Organization, USAID and PEPFAR. What To Know The summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, saw Xi announce a dozen cooperation agreements spanning green mining, trade, connectivity, personnel exchanges and customs, according to Chinese state media. The previous week, China secured $11.4 billion in deals during the fourth China-Africa trade expo, hosted by the foreign minister in Changsha, Hunan Province. The two powers are "going in very divergent directions," said Eric Olander, editor-in-chief of CGSP. The podcast discussion turned to China's vocal support for Iran, as Xi spoke out Tuesday to rebuke Israel for sparking the conflict with its surprise attack last week. Uzbekistani President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping pose for a photo during their meeting on the sidelines of the China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, on June 17. Uzbekistani President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping pose for a photo during their meeting on the sidelines of the China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, on June 17. Uzbekistan's Presidential Press Service via AP "This conflict—China came out very quickly and did not pretend to try and be a neutral arbiter, did not pretend to be kind of nonpartisan at all," Olander said. "They came out very quickly, backed Iran in this, framed the Israelis as the aggressor, and then also positioned the United States as manipulating all of this, which is par for the course in a lot of these types of incidents." CGSP Managing Editor Cobus van Staden added, "So not only in the diplomatic realm where China is coming out so strongly in favor of Iran, but also there are very steep economic consequences for the Chinese." Iran received diplomatic support from China—a longtime strategic partner and major export market—during previous, smaller exchanges of missile fire with Israel in April and October last year. The latest crisis began Friday with Israel's surprise strikes on a range of Iranian targets, including nuclear facilities, missile batteries, senior military leaders and nuclear scientists. Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone attacks. What's Next The U.S. response remains uncertain. Trump has signaled that the U.S. will be involved in Israel's bombing raids against Iran in some capacity, demanding Tehran's "unconditional surrender" in a Truth Social post earlier this week. It remains to be seen whether Washington will order direct military action or limit its role to support.
