JUNE UNWRAPPED: STORIES THAT STUCK

From museum closures to million-dollar toys, cricket glory to green living—June's cultural landscape had it all. Here’s a quick roundup of the headlines that stirred conversations, inspired change, and made

 

MASTERPIECES ON PAUSE

The Louvre Museum

On June 16, the Louvre Museum—home to the Mona Lisa and the world’s most-visited gallery—abruptly shut its doors after reception, security, and gallery staff walked off in protest. Citing chronic overcrowding, understaffing, and deteriorating workplace conditions, unions declared the museum “suffocating,” with workers unable to continue amid throngs of visitors and rising tensions.

Thousands of ticket-holding tourists were left stranded under the iconic glass pyramid as the closure sent shockwaves through Paris’s tourism scene, especially during peak summer travel. Staff warn that without urgent improvements—such as more personnel, better infrastructure, and longer-term solutions—this could be a recurring flashpoint. President Macron has approved an €800 million renovation with plans for a new Mona Lisa gallery by 2031, employees stress that immediate action is essential.

4-FOOT DOLL, 6-FIGURE TAG: LABUBU BREAKS RECORDS

Labubu doll

In a collector’s fever dream turned into reality, a 4.3-foot-tall mint-green Labubu doll—the only one of its kind—was auctioned off for a jaw-dropping 1.08 million yuan (approx. $150,275) at Yongle International Auction in Beijing. Originally a $6 blind-box toy from Pop Mart, this larger-than-life figure just entered the elite league of pop-culture collectibles.

The event marked the first-ever Labubu-exclusive auction, attracting around 200 in-person bidders and over 1,000 online. All 48 Labubu lots sold out, raking in 3.73 million yuan in total. A standout moment? The coveted “Three Wise Labubu” set went under the hammer for over $70K.

Created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung and popularized by Pop Mart since 2019, Labubu’s cult status has been fuelled by celeb fans like BLACKPINK’s Lisa and David Beckham. What began as a cute vinyl figure is now a global auction sensation.

FROM BLUEPRINT TO GRANDEUR

Krishna Raj Bungalow in Pali Hill

Bollywood stars Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor have finally completed the extensive renovation of their six-storey Krishna Raj Bungalow in Pali Hill—named as a tribute to Ranbir’s late grandmother, Krishna Raj Kapoor. Estimated to be worth around ₹250 crore, the opulent residence blends modern elegance with family legacy. 

Designed under the vision of Gauri Khan, the interiors feature European arches, floor-to-ceiling windows, and lush balconies accentuated with mustard-toned sofas and greenery. Over the past few years, Alia, Ranbir, their daughter Raha, and Ranbir’s mother Neetu Kapoor were frequently spotted supervising the final stages of construction.

THIS TIME, THE ROAR WAS REAL

Royal Challengers Bangalore Team

After years of heartbreak and near-misses, Royal Challengers Bangalore have finally clinched their maiden IPL title after 18 years defeating Punjab Kings. The long-awaited win came in a thrilling finale, packed with edge-of-the-seat moments and emotional scenes as the team sealed victory.

Led by a stellar all-round performance and a captain who held his nerve under pressure, RCB’s campaign this season was nothing short of cinematic. The stadium erupted as the final wicket fell, with red and gold confetti painting the night sky.

In the stands and on social media, emotions ran high—tears, triumph, and years of unwavering loyalty coming full circle. Once chanted ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’ began to chant ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ louder than ever before. It’s RCB’s moment in history.

A GREENER NOTE 

 Bhagyashree

On June 5, World Environment Day saw Dia Mirza and Bhagyashree using their platforms not just for style—but for serious substance. Dia, a longtime UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador, delivered a compelling reminder: “What we do to the earth, we do to ourselves.” From ditching plastic bottles to championing climate literacy, her message echoed the urgent theme, ‘Beat Plastic Pollution.’

Bhagyashree, known for her holistic wellness ethos, inspired to rethink daily habits. Wooden toothbrushes, glass bottles, home-grown greens, and composting weren’t just props but more about practicality — proving that mindful choices can be woven into the everyday. 

Together, their advocacy proves that eco-conscious living isn’t just a trend—it's a lifestyle. And when Bollywood backs it with authenticity, the message travels farther than any poster ever could.