Mangaluru: Mohammed Ashik, a 24-year-old entrepreneur from Mangaluru, has clinched victory in the eighth season of MasterChef India, a renowned culinary competition aired on Sony Liv. This historic win not only brings immense pride to Mangaluru but also marks a groundbreaking moment as Ashik becomes the first South Indian to secure the prestigious title in the tough culinary competition, judged by internationally acclaimed chefs.

Facing financial challenges earlier in his career, Ashik redirected his path by venturing into entrepreneurship. He established Kulki Hub, a juice shop, where he showcased his creativity by inventing unique and enticing recipes. Despite facing hurdles in the previous season, Ashik returned to the MasterChef India kitchen with newfound determination.

In celebration of this momentous achievement, Mohammed Ashik Fans Kudla, a community of culinary enthusiasts, well-wishers, and friends, has announced a grand welcome for the culinary hero. Ashik is scheduled to arrive at Mangaluru Airport on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 2 p.m. The enthusiastic reception will feature traditional Mangalurean garlands and the rhythmic beats of chande drums.

The welcome ceremony at the airport will be followed by a procession through the city, extending from the Airport to Forum Nexus Mall in Pandeshwar, Mangaluru. Mohammed Ashik Fans Kudla invites all Mangalureans and well-wishers to join this celebration and extend a warm welcome to Mohammed Ashik.

Expressing their joy, a release from Mohammed Ashik Fans Kudla stated, "Mohammed Ashik's victory is a moment of pride for every Mangalurean. His culinary journey and this remarkable achievement display the indomitable spirit of our city. Let's come together to celebrate his success and welcome him with open hearts."

Mohammed Ashik Fans Kudla urged everyone to participate in this historic celebration, showcasing solidarity and admiration for the culinary hero who has brought glory to Mangaluru.

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San Francisco (PTI): Mourning the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, US President Joe Biden has called him “a true statesman” and credited his strategic vision and political courage for the unprecedented level of bilateral cooperation.

Singh, who was India’s prime minister for 10 years from 2004 to 2014 died in New Delhi on Thursday night. He was 92.

"The unprecedented level of cooperation between the United States and India today would not have been possible without the Prime Minister’s strategic vision and political courage,” Biden said in a statement as he and the First Lady, Jill Biden, joined the people of India in grieving the loss of the former prime minister.

“From forging the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement to helping launch the first Quad between Indo-Pacific partners, he charted path-breaking progress that will continue to strengthen our nations—and the world—for generations to come. He was a true statesman. A dedicated public servant. And above all, he was a kind and humble person,” Biden said.

The outgoing US President said he had the chance to meet Prime Minister Singh as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2008 and as Vice President during his Official State Visit to the United States in 2009.

“He also graciously hosted me in New Delhi in 2013. As we discussed then, the US-India relationship is among the most consequential in the world. And together, as partners and friends, our nations can unlock a future of dignity and unlimited potential for all of our people,” Biden said.

“During this difficult time, we recommit to this vision to which Prime Minister Singh dedicated his life. And Jill and I send our deepest condolences to former First Lady Gursharan Kaur, their three children, and all the people of India,” Biden said.