Govt issues advisory to Meta, urges for content overhaul on Facebook and Instagram
The government has asked Meta, which is the owner of Facebook and Instagram, for a complete content overhaul. Meta has been asked to ensure that its recommendation system does not result in disproportionate exposure of...
Alia Bhatt gushes over sister Shaheen Bhatts latest Instagram post
Alia Bhatt has revealed that she is obsessed with sister Shaheen Bhatts social media content. Reacting to Shaheens latest Instagram post featuring her lunch outing and other moments from the day, Alia left a sweet comment
Prayagraj railway stations introduce healthy, fusion food stalls
Centre tells Meta to overhaul content promotion system on Facebook, Instagram
The Centre has mandated Meta to ensure diverse recommendation algorithms for users on its platforms. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released an advisory emphasizing due diligence under the IT Rules. It highlighted the need for rapid identification and review of content with public disturbance potential. Additionally, Meta must assist law enforcement agencies by providing necessary information promptly.
UPSSSC PET-2026 exam to host 1.13 lakh candidates in Prayagraj
Prayagraj muslim community joins Durga Puja, strengthens social harmony
Govt asks Meta to diversify recommendations, check misleading content
The government has asked Meta, owner of Instagram and Facebook, to ensure that its recommendation systems do not result in disproportionate exposure of users to a single or limited set of narratives, and to step up checks on content that could cause public disorder or incite violence or other unlawful activity. The advisory by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), dated October 10, asked Meta to undertake appropriate measures to provide adequate context in relation to photographs, videos, graphics, or other content depicting ongoing public events, particularly where the authenticity, date, location or circumstances of such content may not be readily apparent to users. Although the advisory does not identify any specific incident that prompted its issuance, it comes amid protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and opposition parties in Delhi demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision ..
BJD Files Police Complaint Over AI Deepfake Videos Targeting Sujata Rout Karthikeyan
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today filed a formal complaint at the Capital Police Station in Bhubaneswar seeking registration of an FIR against the operators of the social media account Odianka Chhata on Instagram and Facebook. The complaint alleges that the account circulated AI-generated deepfake and voice-cloned videos targeting senior leader Sujata Rout Karthikeyan and other [] The post BJD Files Police Complaint Over AI Deepfake Videos Targeting Sujata Rout Karthikeyan appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Govt caps trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30 pc; retail prices likely to fall 70 pc
New Delhi, Oct 18: Drug pricing regulator NPPA on Saturday capped trade margins on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30 per cent, according to an official statement. The move, effective November 9, is expected to slash retail prices of these critical life-saving medicines by up to 70 per cent depending on their current price structures, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers statement said. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, implemented the Trade Margin Rationalisation (TMR) mechanism under Paragraph 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, following a gazette notification issued on Saturday. The intervention stems from recommendations by an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), comprising leading oncologists, medical specialists, hospital experts from across the country, and government officials. The committee recommended 137 drugs for margin rationalisation, and the list will be updated periodically. The exercise builds on the success of NPPA's 2019 pilot TMR initiative, in which trade margins on 42 anti-cancer medicines were capped at 30 per cent, leading to an MRP reduction of up to 90 per cent across 526 brands. The measure broadens that framework to cover a significantly larger basket of cancer medicines, the statement said. Drugmakers are mandated to publish revised price lists on their official websites and disseminate widely among retailers and hospitals. Furthermore, retailers and hospitals must charge reduced rates from November 9 and display the revised prices in their pharmacies. Hospitals, which directly procure a substantial share of oncology medicines, are also required to prominently exhibit the new rates on their websites and will bear direct responsibility for ensuring the revised prices are implemented on the ground, it said. Consumers can verify and check the updated drug rates through the NPPA website and the 'Pharma Sahi Daam' mobile app. To ensure strict adherence, state drug controllers have been directed to enforce compliance across manufacturers, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions. Addressing supply-chain concerns, NPPA underscored that the rationalisation seeks to curb excessive margins in the distribution and retail channels without denting legitimate manufacturing revenues or causing artificial shortages. Pharmaceutical companies have been directed to maintain their current production and supply levels for the notified formulations to guarantee uninterrupted and timely access to vital medicines for patients across the country, the statement added.
Finding purpose: Former Cognizant HR professional Arpita Sahu has opened up about the fears and financial uncertainty she faces after quitting her corporate job in Delhi and moving to Goa in search of purpose. In Instagram videos, she spoke about struggling with self-doubt, pressure to succeed and finding meaningful connections, prompting social media users to share encouragement and their own experiences of starting over.
Kaitlan Collins Weighs In On Katie Zacharias Shock Ouster
Katie Zacharias White House dream spectacularly unravelled in just five days and CNNs Kaitlan Collins appeared to deliver a pointed reminder of her lightning-fast downfall. On October 16, Collins shared a CNN article about Zacharias abrupt exit on Instagram Stories, captioning it: One week after hiring her, Zacharia is out as press secretary.
Travel vlogger Debajit Das has praised the Vande Bharat Sleeper train after travelling from Howrah to Kamakhya, comparing its facilities to a five-star property. In his Instagram review, he highlighted the spacious, clean washroom, premium seating and onboard meals, while revealing that his AC 3 Tier ticket cost Rs 2,450.
Kashmera Shah begins shooting her second directorial project in Greece
Kashmera Shah has started shooting her second directorial project in Greece. The yet-to-be-titled film is backed by Zee and is set to be released as a microdrama on Zee Bullet. The release date is yet to be announced. Sharing an update on social media, Kashmera spoke about beginning a new chapter as an independent filmmaker and filming the project away from home. Starting this new chapter with my second directorial as an independent filmmaker feels exhilarating and honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. I feel proud seeing my dream unfold. Do believe in dreams, they do come true. It happens when you open your eyes, step outside your comfort zone, and have faith, she said. Kashmera also explained why Greece was chosen as the setting for the project, describing the location as an important part of the story. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kashmera Shah (@kashmera1) Filming in Greece isn't just a location choice; its a character in our story. Grateful for this crew, this moment, and the courage to tell stories my way, the actor-turned-filmmaker added. Kashmera Shah takes on her second directorial The project marks Kashmeras second outing as a director. While details about the films storyline and cast have not been revealed yet, the production is currently underway in Greece. In her social media post, Kashmera described the experience as a personal milestone and highlighted the importance of stepping outside her comfort zone while pursuing independent filmmaking. The upcoming project will be released as a microdrama on Zee Bullet. Further details, including its title and release date, are expected to be announced by the makers. Also Read:Kashmera Shah drops cryptic post on homebreakers; sparks speculation amid Govinda-Komal Rani viral video
Saif Ali Khan recently appeared on Netflixs The Great Indian Kapil Show with his wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan, where the actor opened up about a rather relatable aspect of being a parent. During the conversation, Saif spoke about attending parent-teacher meetings for his children and joked about how he has remained a familiar face at the same school for decades. The conversation took a humorous turn when Archana Puran Singh asked, Who goes to school in a parent-teacher meeting? Saif responded by explaining that his experience with parent-teacher meetings spans several decades because he has four children studying at the same school at different stages. He said, First of all, I have four children in that school. At different ages. When I was 20 years old, I had my first PTA meeting. Then I was 30 years old. I am still standing in the same school in 55 years. And now... The teachers there have changed. I am still the same. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in) Saif Ali Khan on his four children Saif is a father of four children. He shares daughter Sara Ali Khan and son Ibrahim Ali Khan with his former wife Amrita Singh, while he and Kareena Kapoor Khan are parents to sons Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan. His remark on The Great Indian Kapil Show offered a glimpse into the long-running routine of parenting, with the actor joking that while teachers have changed over the years, he continues to find himself in the same school environment. The episode also marked one of Saifs first major television appearances following his Instagram debut. The actor joined the social media platform last week and has since gained more than 312,000 followers. Saif Ali Khan on finally joining Instagram During the episode, Kapil Sharma also congratulated Saif on joining Instagram after staying away from the platform for years. Kapil joked, He didnt come on Instagram for so many years, and now that he has, he only follows one person his wife Kareena. Saif explained that he had simply assumed joining the platform would involve a complicated process. Honestly, I didnt know that joining Instagram was so easy. I stayed away for years as I thought I would need a passport or Aadhaar card, he said. The episode featuring Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan is now streaming exclusively on Netflix. Also Read:Kareena Kapoor Khan shares unseen photos with Saif Ali Khan on their 14th wedding anniversary; see post
Akanksha Choudhary calls out organisers over Pune event ordeal
Mumbai: An event appearance in Pune turned into an unsettling experience for influencer Akanksha Choudhary, who has accused the organisers of misleading both her and the people who came to see her. Taking to Instagram, she shared her account of the incident, including allegations that people tried to force her out of a car without Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Education system excludes millions of youth, says Rahul Gandhi
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday, October 18, said what is prevailing in the country is not an education system but an exclusion system that is designed to keep millions of Indian youth out. The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabhas remarks came in an Instagram post with a video of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Neeti Mohan's father Brij Mohan Sharma dies; Shreya Ghoshal, Bosco Martis pay tribute
Renowned playback singer Neeti Mohan and choreographers Shakti Mohan and Mukti Mohan's father, Brij Mohan Sharma, have passed away. He breathed his last on October 15 at the age of 74. Neeti Mohan shared the news of her father's demise on social media, along with a picture of him on Instagram. The singer also expressed her deep sorrow over the loss.
Neha Sharma issues stern warning over AI videos using her face
Mumbai: Actress Neha Sharma has a clear message for those using her face in AI-generated content without permission: take it down or face legal action. Taking to Instagram Stories, the actress issued a strongly worded warning against the creation and circulation of such images and videos. Nehas statement addressed the unauthorised use of her identity, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Twinkle Khanna calls herself a lazy shopper as she puts together an outfit with old wardrobe pieces
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 18 (IANS) Author and former actress Twinkle Khanna has called herself a lazy shopper as she shared how she put together a fresh look by mixing and matching pieces from her existing wardrobe. Taking to Instagram, the Mela actress shared pictures from an evening with actress Shefali Shah, where they discussed her book, The Audacity of Being, at the Tweak India Book Club. Sharing her thoughts about the event, Twinkle wrote, An evening with the fabulous @shefalishahofficial and her book, The Audacity of Being, for @tweakindiabookclub. Among other things, we spoke about how to have your cake and eat it too, quite literally, when talking about her character Neelam in Dil Dhadakne Do! I love everything about her. Go get her book! The former actress also gave a glimpse into her fashion choices, revealing that she had created her look by combining old wardrobe pieces rather than shopping for something new. P.S. I dressed up for the evening by mixing and matching old pieces to create a fun new outfit. Im a lazy shopper, and if I can find a dozen different ways to wear the same piece, Im in heaven. :) What does audacity of being mean to you? Let me know in the comments below, she added. Twinkles post highlighted her preference for reusing and styling existing clothes in different ways. She showed how old wardrobe staples can be brought together to create a fresh look. Twinkle looked stylish in a black jacket paired with blue trousers. She accessorized her look with earrings and left her hair open. Shefali Shah joined Twinkle Khanna at an exclusive Tweak India Book Club event to talk about her book, The Audacity of Being: A Sort-of Memoir. The book delves into the absurdities of everyday life, personal experiences, and the choices women make while navigating their lives. Earlier, author and entrepreneur Twinkle Khanna had offered a glimpse into her festive preparations. She dropped pictures of herself working on her Diwali gifting collection of candles.
Neeti mourns father: Singer shares Instagram tribute
Carrot Top, also known as Scott Christopher Thompson, faced a challenging moment on September 18 when he attempted suicide. Grateful for the outpouring of fan support he received, he shared his appreciation on Instagram. As he prepares to take the stage again at the Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, details have emerged regarding the events leading up to his distress, including being extorted over a sex tape.
Saif Ali Khan is still waiting for his two-year ghee supply and cheque from KBC
Saif Ali Khan revealed that he was still waiting for the two-year ghee supply and cheque he won on Kaun Banega Crorepati. The actor shared this in a light-hearted response to a fan who joked that his excitement over winning the prize had prompted him to join Instagram.
Kashmera Shah Launches Second Directorial Project, Shares Excitement on Instagram
Kashmera Shah embarks on her second directorial project in Greece, expressing pride in realizing her dreams as a filmmaker. Kashmera Shah Launches Second Directorial Project, Shares Excitement on Instagram
Devotees Flock to Pray at Maa Alopshankari Temple During Navratri Festival
A large crowd of devotees visited the Maa Alopshankari Temple in Prayagraj, celebrating Navratri with prayers and rituals. Devotees Flock to Pray at Maa Alopshankari Temple During Navratri Festival
Kumar Kushagras India call-up gives Jharkhand youngsters a reason to dream
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley says fashion show changed my life forever as she returns after 20 years
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 18 (IANS) Actress and model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has recalled how walking her first fashion show at the age of 19 changed her life and career. Almost two decades later, Huntington-Whiteleys set to return to the iconic runway, describing the moment as a special full-circle experience as she looks back on the opportunities, memories and friendships that shaped her journey Taking to Instagram, Huntington-Whiteley shared a string of images from the times she strutted the runway in her two decade long career. She wrote in the caption section: Almost 20 years ago to the day, I walked my very first Victorias Secret Fashion Show. I was 19 years old, just a few years into my modelling career, and little did I know that moment would change my life forever. @victoriassecret was the first major brand to welcome me with open arms and celebrate me just as I was. A little wild, full of life and endlessly excited about what the future might hold. Huntington-Whiteley recalled being starstruck backstage taking pictures with her favourite angels. I remember being completely starstruck backstage, taking pictures with my favourite Angels, Gisele, Alessandra and Adriana, who so warmly took me under their wings. It was everything I had ever dreamed of and more. She went on to write: The years I spent working with Victorias Secret opened countless doors, took me to places I could only have dreamed of and helped shape the career I have been so fortunate to have. It was a defining chapter of my life, one I will always look back on with immense gratitude, affection and pride. Huntington-Whiteley added: And now, almost two decades later, to be returning to that very same runway feels incredibly special. I return a different woman from the girl who first stepped onto it. Older, hopefully a little wiser, with a family of my own and a lifetime of experiences I could never have imagined at 19. But with every bit of that same excitement, gratitude and spirit. I couldnt be more excited to walk alongside so many beautiful, bold and inspiring women this Sunday and experience all the creativity, fantasy and magic once again. Some dreams really do come full circle.
Kangana Ranaut embraces indigenous traditional craft as she celebrates feminine energy on Navratri
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 18 (IANS) Actress Kangana Ranaut celebrated the spirit of Navratri by embracing India's indigenous traditional craft and cultural heritage. Taking to Instagram, the Queen actress shared behind-the-scenes (BTS) moments from the photoshoot and expressed her joy at wearing traditional attire that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage. It is such a joy to wear our own indigenous traditional craft and cultural heritage. Also lovely to be in Chhattisgarh for garba festivities. Heres a lil BTS of the photo shoot, she wrote. Ranaut also shared a heartfelt message about the significance of Navratri and Garba, highlighting the festival's connection with feminine energy and the divine feminine. Navratri is the celebration of feminine and Garba is the dance of life. And at the center of it all is Devi (Shakti). Navratri ki shubhkamnaen, she added. Kangana also shared a video from the photoshoot, in which she is seen striking different poses and dancing while showcasing her traditional outfit. The Tanu Weds Manu actress wore a heavily embellished multicolored lehenga choli, which she paired with black bangles and silver jewelry, adding to her festive look. Kangana also added the song Nagada Sang Dhol, composed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and sung by Shreya Ghoshal and Osman Mir, with lyrics by Siddharth-Garima, to the video. Notably, several of her friends and colleagues from the film industry took to the comments section to react to her post. Anupam Kher commented, You are the bestest. Orry dropped heart emojis. On a related note, Sharad Navratri began on October 11, with Ghatasthapana, and will conclude on October 20, with Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra. Interestingly, Kangana Ranaut takes pride in her Himachali roots and often expresses her faith during Hindu festivals, especially Navratri. The actress and BJP MP, who hails from Bhambla in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi district, often celebrates festivals by following traditions and visiting temples.
Historic Bhor Ki Chowki Celebrated in Prayagraj, Attracts Devotees from Far and Wide
The unique Bhor Ki Chowki event in Prayagraj drew large crowds, showcasing divine forms adorned with precious gems and silver. Historic Bhor Ki Chowki Celebrated in Prayagraj, Attracts Devotees from Far and Wide
Why Val Chmerkovskiy is missing Dancing with the Stars after controversial Fresh Prince remark
Val Chmerkovskiy has been suspended from Dancing with the Stars after a social media remark referencing Will Smiths 2022 Oscars slap sparked controversy. The professional dancer later apologized to judge Carrie Ann Inaba and addressed the decision in an Instagram Story.
Govt caps trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30%; retail prices likely to fall 70%
New Delhi, Oct 17:Drug pricing regulator NPPA on Saturday capped trade margins on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30 per cent, according to an official statement. The move, effective November 9, is expected to slash retail prices of these critical life-saving medicines by up to 70 per cent depending on their current price structures, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers statement said. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, implemented the Trade Margin Rationalisation (TMR) mechanism under Paragraph 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, following a gazette notification issued on Saturday. The intervention stems from recommendations by an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), comprising leading oncologists, medical specialists, hospital experts from across the country, and government officials. The committee recommended 137 drugs for margin rationalisation, and the list will be updated periodically. The exercise builds on the success of NPPA's 2019 pilot TMR initiative, in which trade margins on 42 anti-cancer medicines were capped at 30 per cent, leading to an MRP reduction of up to 90 per cent across 526 brands. The measure broadens that framework to cover a significantly larger basket of cancer medicines, the statement said. Drugmakers are mandated to publish revised price lists on their official websites and disseminate widely among retailers and hospitals. Furthermore, retailers and hospitals must charge reduced rates from November 9 and display the revised prices in their pharmacies. Hospitals, which directly procure a substantial share of oncology medicines, are also required to prominently exhibit the new rates on their websites and will bear direct responsibility for ensuring the revised prices are implemented on the ground, it said. Consumers can verify and check the updated drug rates through the NPPA website and the 'Pharma SahiDaam' mobile app. To ensure strict adherence, state drug controllers have been directed to enforce compliance across manufacturers, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions. Addressing supply-chain concerns, NPPA underscored that the rationalisation seeks to curb excessive margins in the distribution and retail channels without denting legitimate manufacturing revenues or causing artificial shortages. Pharmaceutical companies have been directed to maintain their current production and supply levels for the notified formulations to guarantee uninterrupted and timely access to vital medicines for patients across the country, the statement added.
Nana Patekar: An Essayist of Characters
Nana Patekar died in the early hours of Thursday, 8 October 2026 of a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. He was seventy-five. Four days earlier, at a function near Panaji, he had spoken of death without theatre. We all have to go someday. I dont know whether I will be here tomorrow But before the time comes we have to think am I able to do what I want to do? Have I made the effort? Then, The Indian Express reports, he danced with a troupe and told a fan who asked for a Krantiveer dialogue that none would leave his throat until he heard the jingling of money in his ears. Frank, funny, faintly dangerous, and honest about the clock: that was Nana to the last. I keep a short roll of honour among the worlds actors: Gregory Peck, Marlon Brando, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Dilip Kumar, George C. Scott, Donald Sutherland, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Charles Chaplin, Alec Guinness, Jack Nicholson. Nana Patekar belongs on that roll, and not as a courtesy of nationality. He was an essayist of characters. Each of his men arrived as a thesis, made its case in a rasp or a silence, and left the audience altered. Look at the range. In Salaam Bombay! (1988) he was Baba, a drug dealer and pimp without a flicker of pity. In Parinda (1989) he was the crime lord Anna Seth, whose maniacal laugh won him his first National Award. In Krantiveer (1994) he turned anger into a public argument against corruption and won Best Actor. In Khamoshi: The Musical (1996) he played a deaf-mute father with no dialogue to lean on; the Express called it pure performance, the hallmark of a true actor. In Ab Tak Chhappan (2004) he was a police inspector so obsessed with cleaning up crime that all semblance of balance disappeared. In Natsamrat (2016) he became Ganpat Appa Belwalkar, the stage legend who neglected his family in his prime and found they had little time for him in old age. What I prize in the men on my roll is economy: a pause doing the work of a paragraph. Nana had it. His villains were never cartoons, and his heroes never forgot they were angry men. Honorary ranks are often treated as ornaments. Nana Patekars was not. He came to my Regiment first through a film. In Prahaar (1991), which he co-wrote, directed and starred in, he played Major Chavan of the Maratha Light Infantry, a hard taskmaster to his cadets. By several accounts he prepared by training with the Regiment for about three years. He joined the Territorial Army as an honorary Captain around 1990, and held his honorary commission, rising to Lieutenant Colonel, until 2013. Then came 1999. He asked to go to the front and was told that only the Defence Minister could permit it. So he telephoned George Fernandes, who agreed. He reached the Line of Control in August, weeks after the Kargil war was officially declared over, and did the unglamorous work: a base hospital, a quick-response team, patrols. He did not play at being a combatant. Kashmiri readers will know the places. By his own telling, his travels took in Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore. I know that belt. Kupwara is my home district, and Baramulla is where I commanded my battalion on the Line of Control. When I reached Srinagar, my weight was 76 kg, he recalled. When I came back, my weight became 56 kg. In a recent interview he said of that time, simply: I felt happy. I could at least do this little bit for the country. That is how soldiers speak of service: without ornament. There is a coincidence I cannot leave alone. In 1978, the year I was commissioned into the 16th Battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry, Nana Patekar made his screen debut in Gaman . Two roads began that year, and they met in one Regiment. A regiment is a family of obligations. Whoever wears its uniform and means it, belongs to it. Nana meant it. He knew his own faults. I get violent, he told the Express in 2016. Thats the difference. I lost so many things because of that. Few public men name their flaw so plainly. In the same breath he said: Acting is not just a profession for me. This is how I breathe. His generosity was quieter than his temper. In 2015 he and Makarand Anaspure founded the NAAM Foundation to help drought-hit farmers and their families in Maharashtra. And when he learnt that the young shooter Anjali Bhagwat and two teammates were sharing one rifle and one kit for want of money, he stepped in. He is the first sponsor of my career, she says. To newcomers on the range he would say, on the spot: Take my ammunition and shoot. No glove? Here, take mine. Ill get a new one. I must also set down a private regret. I have created and written a screenplay of an eight-episode feature for Netflix that marries Dostoevskys quiet pathos to the reckonings of love in King Lear . Its lead is an ageing patriarch who reeks of lust and greed. My sponsors offered a distinguished shortlist of the countrys finest actors. I insisted on Nana Patekar. My reason was what I call the Al Pacino frequency: volatile, razor-edged, soul-piercing. Nana had an innate, unpredictable savagery. In Parinda it announced itself. In Apaharan , as the MLA and underworld don Tabrez Alam, it learned to wait. Even in The Vaccine War , in a very different part, he kept his power in reserve. With age the fire had hardened into something more dangerous: a quiet, sardonic, bone-chilling cruelty. I wanted that savagery of intent dripping from my patriarchs face and eyes before he spoke a word. I could not imagine another face carrying it. Every writer has a role written for one particular face. Mine was his. Now it is my loss, and a regret I will carry for life. He was cremated late on Thursday night at his farmhouse in Donje village, outside Pune, with full state honours and a 21-gun salute, before more than a thousand mourners. The salute fitted. He had worn two uniforms, the actors and the soldiers, and neither was a disguise. Rest well, Colonel. The Regiment remembers you. Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai. (The writer, a retired Colonel of the Maratha Light Infantry, is a strategic analyst and author.)
Comedian Paul Whitehouse mugged at London cash machine
His wife wrote on Instagram that the actor had been mugged at a cash machine behind a Sainsbury's in Islington.
Megan Fox unveils provocative new photos as she launches new venture with OnlyFans co-founder
Megan Fox shared sultry photos on Instagram while announcing an ownership stake in Subs.com, the subscription platform co-founded by OnlyFans
Introduction: A Historical Review of Development, Governance and Regional Justice The history of Jammu and Kashmir is not merely a story of political transitions; it is also a history of administrative reforms, educational development, institutional growth, Dogra heritage and regional representation. During the reign of Maharaja Hari Singh, who ascended the throne in 1925, the princely state witnessed important initiatives in primary education, social reform, administrative institutions and constitutional development. After 1947, the political and administrative structure underwent a fundamental transformation. During the influential periods of National Conference rule, concerns emerged in Jammu regarding regional representation, government employment, educational infrastructure and the distribution of development resources. A factual assessment must distinguish documented historical developments from political allegations. The achievements of Maharaja Hari Singh deserve examination on the basis of historical evidence, while complaints concerning Jammus regional development must be evaluated through government records, commission reports and comparative data. 1. Maharaja Hari Singhs Reign: Development and Institutional Reforms Maharaja Hari Singh ruled Jammu and Kashmir from 1925 until 1947. His reign was an important period in the evolution of the princely states educational, administrative and social institutions. It is equally important to recognise that several roads, public institutions and administrative systems had originated during the reigns of earlier Dogra rulers. Some initiatives were continued, expanded or reformed during Maharaja Hari Singhs tenure. Therefore, historical accuracy requires distinguishing between developments initiated by earlier rulers and those associated with his own reign. A. Education: Compulsory Primary Education in 1930 One of the significant documented developments associated with Maharaja Hari Singhs reign was the introduction of compulsory primary education legislation in 1930. Historical research records the following initiatives: Compulsory primary education provisions for boys aged six to eleven in specified urban or notified areas. Measures to encourage school attendance and expand access to education. Educational assistance, including free textbooks and scholarships, as described in historical studies. Efforts to expand educational opportunities for girls, although social barriers and shortages of female teachers continued to limit progress. These initiatives were significant in the context of the educational conditions prevailing in the princely state during that period. However, it would be historically inaccurate to claim that universal education had been achieved throughout Jammu and Kashmir by 1930. Educational access remained limited in many rural and remote areas. Historical assessment: The 1930 education legislation represents a documented step towards expanding primary education. Its significance should be recognised without exaggerating its geographical coverage or immediate results. B. Administrative and Constitutional Development An important milestone occurred on 26 September 1934, when Maharaja Hari Singh issued an order convening the first session of the Praja Sabha for 17 October 1934. The Praja Sabha provided a limited legislative and representative forum within the princely state. Its establishment marked a stage in the development of formal political institutions. Nevertheless, the Praja Sabha did not constitute a fully democratic system. The Maharaja retained ultimate authority, and political representation remained restricted by the institutional arrangements of the time. In 1939, constitutional developments continued with the Jammu and Kashmir Constitution Act, reflecting the gradual evolution of the state's administrative and constitutional framework. Historical assessment: Maharaja Hari Singhs reign witnessed the development of representative institutions, but these changes must be understood within the limitations of monarchical government. C. Social Reform and Educational Opportunities Research on the period identifies initiatives relating to educational expansion, scholarships, women's education and opportunities for disadvantaged sections of society. These measures formed part of a broader process of social and administrative change taking place in the princely state. At the same time, substantial inequalities in literacy, educational access and social opportunity persisted. A balanced historical account should acknowledge both the reforms undertaken and the limitations that remained. D. Roads, Communications and Public Administration The geographical challenges of Jammu and Kashmir made transportation and communications essential to effective governance. During the broader Dogra period, successive rulers worked on road connectivity, postal and telegraph services, administrative institutions and public services. Some of these initiatives predated Maharaja Hari Singh and continued during his reign. Accordingly, it would be incorrect to attribute every development of the Dogra period exclusively to Maharaja Hari Singh. Nevertheless, the institutional foundations developed during this era formed an important part of the state's administrative history. 2. The Political Transition After 1947 The year 1947 brought a profound transformation to Jammu and Kashmir. Partition, the tribal invasion, accession to India and the subsequent political reorganisation changed the state's political and administrative landscape. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and the National Conference emerged as major forces in post-accession politics. The National Conference government introduced significant land reforms and sought to transform agrarian relationships by reducing the power of large landholders and improving the position of cultivators. These reforms benefited many cultivators, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. However, their regional and economic effects also generated concerns among sections of Jammu's population. An important historical question is whether policies designed for the entire state adequately accounted for differences in geography, agricultural productivity, economic structure and regional requirements. 3. Land Reforms and Their Regional Impact The land reforms introduced during the early 1950s transformed landownership and agricultural relationships in Jammu and Kashmir. In the Kashmir Valley, many cultivators benefited from the redistribution of land and the weakening of traditional landlord structures. However, some historical analyses argue that the application of common landholding limits created difficulties for certain landholders and farming communities in Jammu, particularly in areas where agricultural land was less productive or cultivation depended on different geographical conditions. This raises a legitimate policy question: Were the distinct agricultural and geographical conditions of Jammu and the Kashmir Valley adequately considered when land reform policies were implemented? The regional effects of these reforms deserve careful examination. However, the experience was not uniform across all communities, farmers or landholders. A complete assessment must distinguish between the benefits received by cultivators, the losses experienced by particular landholders and the wider economic consequences. The issue should therefore be examined through the original legislation, implementation records and region-specific agricultural data rather than political assertions alone. 4. Government Employment and Regional Representation One of the longstanding concerns raised in Jammu has been the representation of its residents in government employment and administrative institutions. Regional representation is important because government employment affects economic opportunity, public confidence and participation in decision-making. The issue received formal attention through the Gajendragadkar Commission, appointed in 1967 to examine complaints relating to regional imbalances in Jammu and Kashmir. Its report was published in December 1968. Historical accounts describe recommendations concerning regional development, recruitment policies, educational infrastructure and representation in government. The recommendations also included measures to strengthen higher education in Jammu, including the development of a full-fledged university, a medical college and a regional engineering college. These developments demonstrate that regional imbalance had become a significant administrative and public-policy concern. However, the appointment of a commission does not establish that every recruitment decision or department discriminated against Jammu. Such claims require department-wise recruitment figures, regional population data, recruitment rules and evidence of how those rules were applied. The central question is whether Jammu received fair and proportionate access to government employment and administrative opportunities. 5. Higher Education: Jammus Demand for Institutional Development Higher education became another important dimension of the debate over regional development. The recommendations associated with the Gajendragadkar Commission reflected the need to strengthen higher educational institutions in Jammu. Historical accounts identify the establishment of Jammu University and a medical college among the developments that subsequently advanced, while other recommendations took longer to implement or remained incomplete. This history raises several questions: How quickly were higher education institutions established in Jammu compared with the needs of its population? Were medical, technical and professional education opportunities distributed equitably? Did the pace of institutional development adequately reflect Jammu's educational requirements? Were regional demands addressed consistently across successive governments? These are questions that can be examined through institutional establishment dates, student enrolment, public expenditure, faculty positions and access to professional courses. The historical record supports the existence of regional concerns, but a precise comparison requires reliable figures for both Jammu and the Kashmir Valley over the same periods. 6. Government Commissions and the Question of Regional Imbalance Two important historical milestones were the Gajendragadkar Commission of 196768 and the Sikri Commission process of 197980. The Gajendragadkar Commission The commission examined complaints concerning regional imbalances, development planning and recruitment. Its recommendations addressed institutional development and measures intended to improve regional representation. Its importance lies in the fact that regional disparities had become sufficiently significant to warrant formal examination. The Sikri Commission Historical accounts also record a later review of regional imbalance complaints through the Sikri Commission process around 197980. The issues discussed in relation to this process included development programmes, recruitment policies and access to professional education. The precise findings and implementation status of individual recommendations should be established from the original reports and official records before drawing definitive conclusions. What do these commissions establish? They demonstrate that regional imbalance was a recognised public-policy issue in Jammu and Kashmir. They do not, by themselves, establish that every sector was systematically biased against Jammu or that every government followed the same pattern. The appropriate next step is to compare the commissions' recommendations with actual expenditure, recruitment and institutional development in the two regions. 7. A Factual Comparison of the Two Periods Area| Maharaja Hari Singh's reign, 19251947| Post-1947 National Conference era Education| Compulsory primary education legislation in 1930 and measures to encourage educational access.| Jammu raised demands for expanded higher education; regional disparities later became a subject of commission reviews. Administration| Development of the Praja Sabha and limited representative institutions.| Complaints concerning regional representation and government recruitment received formal attention. Land and agriculture| Agrarian administration continued within the princely system, with its own social and economic limitations.| Land reforms transformed agrarian relations; their differing effects across regions became a subject of historical debate. Regional development| Public institutions and administrative systems developed within a monarchical structure.| Concerns emerged regarding the distribution of development opportunities, public employment and educational infrastructure. Political accountability| The Maharaja retained ultimate authority despite limited representative institutions.| Government policies operated within a changing political framework, with regional demands and representation becoming recurring issues. The two periods were fundamentally different. The Maharaja governed a princely state, whereas post-1947 governments operated within a changing constitutional and political framework. Consequently, a meaningful comparison must examine specific policies, their objectives, their beneficiaries and their measurable outcomes rather than rely on general praise or criticism 8. Was Jammu Neglected Under National Conference Governments? The question deserves serious historical examination. Jammu's regional concerns have centred on three principal areas: First, political representation. Sections of Jammu's population have argued that their region's interests were not adequately reflected in government decision-making. Second, development priorities. Concerns have been raised about the pace and distribution of investment in roads, hospitals, colleges, industries and other public infrastructure. Third, employment and educational opportunities. The representation of Jammu residents in public services and access to professional education have remained important issues in regional politics. The historical existence of these complaints is supported by the record of regional imbalance commissions. Their significance should not be dismissed as merely political rhetoric. At the same time, the assertion that every National Conference government deliberately discriminated against Jammu in every sector requires further evidence. Such a conclusion cannot be established solely from the existence of complaints or the appointment of commissions. A rigorous assessment would compare: 1. Region-wise capital expenditure and development budgets. 2. Government recruitment and promotions by region. 3. The establishment and expansion of universities, colleges and hospitals. 4. Industrial investment and employment generation. 5. Rural infrastructure and public-service access. 6. The implementation of recommendations made by regional imbalance commissions. Such evidence would make it possible to distinguish between documented disparities, political interpretations and claims that remain unverified. 9. What Jammu Needs for Balanced Development Historical grievances can be addressed most effectively through transparent data and accountable governance. The following measures would help strengthen regional equity: Publication of region-wise development expenditure and project completion records. Regular disclosure of recruitment and representation statistics in government services. Expansion of medical, technical, professional and research institutions in Jammu according to demonstrated needs. Greater support for industrial development and employment in areas such as Samba, Kathua and Bari Brahmana. Investment in tourism, agriculture, trade and local enterprises. Preservation of Dogra history, language, cultural heritage and historical monuments. Independent evaluation of public expenditure and implementation of regional development recommendations. These measures would help ensure that development is assessed according to measurable outcomes rather than political claims. Conclusion: Historical Recognition and Regional Justice Maharaja Hari Singh's reign occupies an important place in the history of Jammu and Kashmir because of documented initiatives in primary education, social reform and institutional development. The 1930 education legislation and the establishment of the Praja Sabha represent identifiable milestones, although the limitations of monarchical government and unequal access to education must also be acknowledged. After 1947, the National Conference introduced major changes, particularly in land relations and agrarian policy. At the same time, concerns regarding Jammu's representation, higher education, employment and regional development became significant enough to receive formal attention through commission processes. The historical record therefore supports a serious examination of Jammu's regional grievances. It also requires care: evidence of regional imbalance does not automatically prove that every policy or every government decision was deliberately discriminatory. The most credible assessment of Jammu's development must be grounded in comparative records, original commission reports, regional budgets and measurable public outcomes. Respect for Maharaja Hari Singh's historical contributions and a demand for equitable development in Jammu are not mutually exclusive. Both can be examined through evidence, historical context and a commitment to fair governance. Jammu's development, representation and cultural identity deserve serious consideration. The ultimate measure of any government should be whether its policies deliver fair opportunities, public services and accountable administration to all regions. (The Author is a columnist)
15-year-old survives stabbing at Mauli Jagran in Chandigarh.
Prayagraj Ramlila committees showcase eco-friendly dussehra tableaux
Reversing car kills 8-year-old in Prayagraj
Lattafa Ra'ed Intensely 3.4oz 100ml Long-Lasting Fragrance Spray $22.94
Lattafa Ra'ed Intensely 3.4oz 100ml Long-Lasting Fragrance Spray $22.94
Meghalaya speaker approves merger of 8 UDP MLAs, BJP strength rises to 10
Shillong, Oct 17: In a major political shake-up, Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma has recognised the merger of eight UDP legislators with the BJP under Paragraph 4 of the Tenth Schedule. As per Bulletin issued by Assembly Secretariat on October 16, the eight MLAs are Lahkmen Rymbui, Pius Marwein, Kyrmen Shylla, Mayralborn Syiem, Matthew Beyondstar [] The post Meghalaya speaker approves merger of 8 UDP MLAs, BJP strength rises to 10 first appeared on Highland Post .
Woman undertrial caught while trying to smuggle 11,500 cash into Parappana Agrahara Central Prison
Gujarat forms committee to review teachers non-academic workload, online data entry
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 17 (IANS) The Gujarat government has initiated a review of non-academic duties assigned to schoolteachers, including data entry on multiple online portals, with Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja directing a committee of senior officials to recommend ways to reduce their workload and allow them to devote more time to classroom teaching. At a high-level meeting in Gandhinagar on Saturday, Vaja reviewed the additional responsibilities assigned to primary and secondary school teachers by various departments, along with teacher training requirements and data entry work on different online portals. The committee will comprise senior officials from the Education Department, the Gujarat Council of Educational Research and Training (GCERT), Samagra Shiksha and the Commissioner of Schools. It will examine the issue in detail and submit a report to the state government, which will take a final decision based on its recommendations. The classroom is a teachers true workplace, Vaja said, stressing the need to reduce unnecessary online data entry and non-academic duties so that teachers can spend more time on teaching and other academic activities. The minister said the government is committed to addressing teachers concerns and that efforts to simplify their work were being undertaken in mission mode. The stated objective is to improve the quality of education by allowing teachers to focus more closely on students learning. Referring to the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vaja said: Education would be key to achieving the target and that teachers had an important role to play. He called for the government, teachers and students to work together towards nation-building. The review will cover the workload arising from online reporting, data entry and other responsibilities assigned by different departments, in addition to teacher training. The committees findings are expected to inform the governments decision on measures to simplify teachers duties. Principal Secretary of the Education Department, Milind Torawane; Director of Primary Education, Prakash Trivedi; and senior officials from the Education Department, GCERT and Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan attended the meeting.
SC-tasked panel invites complaints linked to Jantar Mantar clashes in July
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 17 (IANS) The Supreme Court-constituted High Powered Enquiry Committee (HPEC) has started inviting complaints and representations from people affected by incidents relating to violence at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and other cities in July, an official said on Saturday. For the convenience of the affected people, including the affected police personnel, the HPEC, headed by former Justice R. Subhash Reddy, has launched a portal, http://hpec.nic.in, the Union Home Ministry official said in a statement. The five-member HPEC has been tasked to look into all aspects of the incidents relating to violence at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, and at places outside the Capital, in July during protests over alleged exam irregularities, the official said. The HPEC shall examine all issues enumerated in paragraphs 12 and 13 of the Supreme Courts order dated August 18 and paragraph 5(i) of the order dated September 10, 2026, said the official in a statement. Priority will be given to matters about the use of pellet guns, targeted violence and harassment of female protestors, and excessive violence and destruction of property occasioned on either side, said the statement. The Portal is designed in such a manner as to enable due protection to vulnerable witnesses and also to keep the identities confidential and undisclosed, if so wished by the affected persons, said the statement. The affected persons and other stakeholders are encouraged to access the portal and upload their complaints/representations, making use of the formats as applicable, it said. Apart from the above, any person wishing to provide information/suggestion relating to the issues referred to the HPEC under the Supreme Court orders dated August 18, 2026 and September 10, 2026 may also do so through the portal, the statement said. Those who wish to submit the complaints, representations and other relevant material physically can do so at the Office of the HPEC at Shiksha Sadan, 17, Rouse Avenue Institutional Area, New Delhi 110002 between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on all working days. Submissions can also be sent by post at the above address or by email, the statement said. While constituting the HPEC, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant directed the panel to look into he use of excessive force and violence against protestors by police authorities and other agencies, including the deployment of pellet guns, electric batons, lathi charges, and tear gas without adequate warning or proportionality, resulting in severe bodily harm and injuries, some of which are alleged to be of a grievous and lasting nature. The CJI clarified that the larger constitutional questions related to facial recognition technology, surveillance and privacy will be decided by the apex court itself and not by the committee. The Supreme Court also directed the presentation of CCTV footage to the Committee for investigation. The Police Authorities, Para-Military Forces, and other Investigating Agencies, who were directed vide order dated July 28, 2026, to preserve all CCTV footage, drone footage, body-worn camera recordings, videography, wireless communication records, and PCR call logs about the student protests, and furnish the entire record to the HPEC and extend their full cooperation, it said.
Man Held For Child Abuse Material
A 22-year-old man, Faiyaz Ali, was arrested in Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly creating fake Instagram accounts to circulate child sexual abuse material and explicit chats. The arrest followed a tip-off from the Union home ministry's Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), which flagged an Instagram account with objectionable content. Police traced the account to Ali and apprehended him while he was attempting to flee.
Actor Sikandar Kher has shared a heartfelt note on social media, reflecting on his experience of working on Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam. In his post, Kher expressed gratitude to director Avinash Arun, producer Dinesh Vijan and his co-stars, while also opening up about the challenges of portraying Abbas Kazmi in the film. Kher plays Abbas Kazmi, the defence lawyer who represented Ajmal Kasab during the trial related to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. In the film, he shares screen space with Rajkummar Rao, who portrays public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. Beginning his note with the words, Prahaar A few thoughts and a lot of love, Kher spoke about the support and faith he received from Arun, crediting the filmmaker with playing an important role in his professional and personal journey. @avinasharundhaware, what can I say. Apart from being an auteur you have been a pillar of strength. Professionally and personally. Your belief in me not only as an actor but a person is something I will cherish and hold close to my heart till the end of time, he wrote. The actor added that the opportunity meant more to him than simply getting a challenging role. What you have given me is so much more than just a terrific role. You see me brother. For that I shall always look up to the skies and thank whoever is looking down, for having made our journeys cross paths, he said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SK (@sikandarkher) Kher also thanked producer Dinesh Vijan for trusting him with the part and acknowledged the work being done under the Maddock Films banner. It was your faith in me that I got this opportunity. You continue to make great cinema and your passion to the arts is absolutely wonderful to see and be a part of. Youve built a beautiful family in @maddockfilms and somewhere I feel a part of it now. Thank you, he wrote. Sikandar Kher calls Abbas Kazmi a challenging character Reflecting on his role, Kher acknowledged that playing Abbas Kazmi was not easy. The character is based on the lawyer who represented Kasab during the high-profile trial, placing him on the opposing side of Rajkummar Rao's portrayal of Ujjwal Nikam. Abbas Kazmi by no means was an easy character to play. A man who took up a case going up against all of society and humanity for his land, his constitution, was a challenge to say the least, Kher wrote. He went on to praise Rao's performance and spoke about the experience of sharing the screen with him. But when you have a team and a co-actor like @rajkummar_rao the job becomes enjoyable and then the magic happens. Ill be your screen partner anytime brother. Kher described Rao's work in the film as not just a stellar performance, its a career defining one and added, I had front row seats to it. The actor also praised co-star Lalit Prabhakar, recalling his first day on set. From the moment I saw you step into that witness box on our first day of shoot I knew something special was happening. When I saw the film I was completely floored by your performance. Bravo ! he wrote. Actor thanks the cast and crew of Prahaar In the comments section of his post, Kher continued to acknowledge the people who contributed to the film. He thanked Kazmi for taking the time to meet him and share a chapter of his life, saying the interaction helped him prepare for the role. I still remember my meeting with @kazmi3451 ji, who took out time to meet with me and share a chapter of his life. Without that it wouldnt have been possible for me to pull this off. Thank you sir, he wrote. Kher also expressed gratitude to the team behind the film, including producer P Vijan, Sharada Karki and several members of the cast and crew. He acknowledged the support of Sudatta Patil, praised the dialogue work by Gogoroy and thanked Rituja for her contribution during the filmmaking process. Concluding his message, Kher acknowledged co-stars Ashish Vidyarthi, Ajinkya Deo, Jaideep Ahlawat, Wamiqa Gabbi and Ritvik Sahore, while apologising for missing some names from the list. Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Sikandar Kher calls himself a married man as he breaks down his extremely complicated relationship with acting; discusses his non-negotiables and says, I will become bald for a role
Sunny Deol and Esha Deol set for box-office clash as Suryaa and Pratap release on November 20
Sunny Deol and Esha Deol are set for a box-office clash on November 20, 2026, with their respective films, Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak and Pratap, scheduled to release in theatres on the same day. While Sunny will headline a crime thriller, Pratap will feature Amit Sadh in the lead, marking Eshas return to the big screen after a long hiatus. Directed by Sachin Saraf and produced by Pradeep Rangwani under UV Films, Pratap features an ensemble cast that includes Amit Sadh, Esha Deol, Seema Biswas, Milind Gunaji and Tigmanshu Dhulia. Amit plays a decorated Mumbai encounter specialist, with the films first look offering a glimpse of his character. For Esha, the film marks a return to theatrical releases after an extended break. Her appearance in Pratap also brings her film release into the same weekend as her father Sunny Deols upcoming project. View this post on Instagram A post shared by UV films (@uvfilmsofficial) Meanwhile, Sunny Deol will be seen in Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak, directed by M. Padmakumar. The actor recently unveiled the films first look and motion poster, featuring him in a rugged avatar. The crime thriller revolves around hidden secrets, unanswered questions and the pursuit of justice. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol) The film is presented by Kamal Mukut and produced by Deepak Mukut, Hemant Mukut and Lokesh Mukut. Ravi Kishan and Pragya Jaiswal also feature in significant roles. With both films scheduled to arrive in cinemas on November 20, audiences will have two different crime-focused stories to choose from. Their box-office performance will be worth watching, particularly as the releases bring father and daughter Sunny and Esha Deol to the big screen on the same date. Also Read:Esha Deol turns Sunny Deols Dhaai Kilo Ka Haath into a Raksha Bandhan gag in Instamart campaign, watch
ON OCTOBER 16 AROUND two thousand people succeeded in gathering in Delhis Connaught Circus holding national flag to participate in the Lehra Do Tiranga (wave the tricolour) march in spite of the Modi regime unleashing coercive power of Delhi police in an unabashed manner to prevent them and Cockroach Janata Party leader Abhijit Dipke and feisty Neha Vora of All India Students Organisation (AISA) for leading the march. Such blatant use of force and intimidation for crushing dissent did not deter them to hit the streets and exercise their right to wave tricolour and interrogate the political regime at the centre which has emerged as spokesperson of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to defend his acts of commission and omission in implementing SIR in a flawed manner and causing disenfranchisement of millions of voters across India. Such struggles of people in defence of right to vote and universal adult franchise by waving tricolour in face of massive police crackdown and threat of attack is unprecedented in the annals of independent India. Both Abhijit and Neha were detained by police and their lawyers had to struggle through the night of 16 th October to trace them. It is now reported that Neha was released in the morning of October 17 and Dipke is set to be produced before the magistrate. Firing at People in 1938 for Hoisting National Flag Such severe repressive police measures against those waving tricolour agonisingly remind the sinister and brutal police firing in Mysore princely State's Vidurashwatha village, close to the now Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh border, on 25 th April 1938 against people who joined Dhwaja Satyagraha, (Flag Satyagraha) for hoisting national flag. Sadly 32 of them succumbed to police bullets, laying down their lives. Massacre of people who gathered in that village defying prohibitory orders to hoist national flag prompted historians to draw parallel with the cold-blooded killing at Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 on account of firing ordered by General Dyer. Therefore, Vidurashwatha village where people were killed by police firing in 1938 for the cause of national flag has been described as Jallianwala Bagh of south. It is significant to recall that tragic episode concerning bravery of people in facing police bullets for proudly holding national flag and their intent to hoist it . Gandhis on Linking Struggle for National Flag With Representative Government Four days after that massacre, on 29 th April 1938, Mahatma Gandhi in a press statement poignantly stated that, 'There has been firing upon an unarmed crowd, resulting in several deaths and many more being injured. The demonstration that is going on in Mysore about the national flag he proceeded to assert is a symptom of the time. Those words of Gandhi that The demonstration that is going on in Mysore about the national flag is a symptom of the time resonate in the attempts of youth of India, led by Abhijit Dipke and Neha Vora, for waving national flag to hold the Modi regime and Chief Election Commissioner to account for dealing a fatal blow to the Constitution and parliamentary democracy through the operation of SIR in transgression of Article 325. It mandates, among others, that ..no person shall be ineligible for inclusion in any such roll (general electoral roll) or claim to be included in any special electoral roll for any such constituency(for every territorial constituency) on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex or any of them. The flawed electoral roll generated by SIR process has removed names of millions of voters on grounds of so called logical discrepancies and other curated algorithms targeting Muslims, women and underprivileged sections for erasing their constitutional right to vote. When vast masses of Muslims and women are removed from electoral roll then the mandate of Article 325 that ..no person shall be ineligible for inclusion in any such roll (general electoral roll) or claim to be included in any special electoral roll for any such constituency(for every territorial constituency) on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex or any of them stand violated. Such a provision in the Constitution was enshrined to establish representative Government in India so that peoples will and authority is reflected emphatically and in full measure. Kudos to youth of India that they by their actions to wave national flag are engaged in an arduous struggle in defence of an authentic representative Government which during Modi regime is persuasively accused of vote chori (vote theft) against which there is now country wide outrage and protests. It is heartening to note that there is an echo of what Mahatma Gandhi stated about representative Government after the massacre of people for the cause of national flag in Mysore. He said in the aforementioned Statement to the Press in 1938 that the Maharaj of Mysore in response to the tragic killing of people for waving national flag was to divest the Government of its autocracy and to make popular representatives responsible for the administration of Mysore. Those words of Mahatma resonate in the Lehra Do Tiranga (waving of national flag) march in defence of a representative Government based on purity of electoral roll legitimately reflecting mandate of the people. Gandhi went on to say that people sacrificing their lives for national flag in Mysore constituted, in his words, ..small price paid for the liberty of the people. I would, he remarked forcefully, use these sacrifices for gaining the liberty for which they had been made voluntarily or involuntarily. I have been told that the people have been behaving with exemplary non-violence and that the crowd bravely suffered the firing. If that is proved to be the case, I for one will rejoice over the loss of life. It is the necessary price paid for gaining liberty, he very boldly remarked. The sacrifices of people in Mysore did not go in vain. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was sent to bring about a settlement with Mysore Maharaja who assured to initiate constitutional reforms, release political prisoners and withdraw prohibitory orders. In his article, Resolution on Mysore Settlement published in the Harijan on May 21, 1938, Gandhi reiterated that .Mysore ruler should establish responsible government in his State so that the responsibility for law and order including firing, whenever it is deemed necessary, will be shouldered by a government answerable to the people. In that context he thoughtfully remarked, It should further be borne in mind that the national flag is the symbol of non-violence and national unity to be brought about by means strictly truthful and non-violent. Exemplary Nono-Violence of Defenders of Flag People of Mysore in 1938 displayed, in the words of Gandhi, exemplary non-violence in upholding national flag, while laying down their lives facing police bullets. Eighty eight years later in 2026 youth are remaining totally non-violent and peaceful for waving national flag and yet Modi regime, tragically, is deploying massive police force to quell the peaceful youth intending to take forward their Lehra Do Tiranga march. Gandhi had warned Maharaja of Mysore in his aforementioned article published in the Harijan that he should .recognise the signs of the times and establish responsible government within their borders and otherwise extend and guard the liberty of the people under their jurisdiction. Gandhis Warnings Resonate Those warnings for autocratic Maharaja of Mysore are more relevant for Modi regime which has been described as elected autocracy. The signs of our time in India are that people specially the youth are in forefront of non-violent struggle to save the Constitution and defend their right to vote. This struggle cannot be suppressed by police repression contrary to the constitutionally enshrined fundamental right to protest and express dissent.
'Fake Emails, QR Code': Ahmedabad Police Bust Fake Navratri Pass Scam
Unidentified fraudsters created a fake Instagram handle under the username veer.rajjputtt and used a mobile number ending in 808 to impersonate the event organisers.
Dr Shriram Nene shares photos from Hindu wedding ceremony with Madhuri Dixit
Dr Shriram Nene recalled his Hindu wedding with actress Madhuri Dixit as the couple marked their 27th wedding anniversary. Taking to Instagram, Shriram shared a heartfelt note reflecting on their journey together
Actor-politician Smriti Irani has marked the end of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 by sharing a behind-the-scenes video featuring the technical crew that worked on the show. In the video, Irani introduces several members of the off-screen team while acknowledging their contribution to the series. The video begins with Smriti Irani alongside co-stars Amar Upadhyay and Hiten Tejwani. She then turns the camera towards the production unit, introducing the director of photography (DOP) and his team, followed by the director and the direction team. Sharing the video on social media, Irani wrote, Before the curtains come down .. meet the people behind the magic (sic), while tagging the show and adding heart emojis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Smriti Irani (@smritiiraniofficial) Smriti Irani acknowledges the crew behind Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 While actors have remained at the centre of the show, Iranis video shifted attention to the people working behind the camera. Her post offered a glimpse of the technical and production teams involved in bringing the series to viewers. The video comes as the show prepares to conclude its latest chapter, with Irani taking a moment to acknowledge the crews work and dedication. What is Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 about? Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 revisits the world of the Virani family 25 years after the original series. The story follows Tulsi Virani after she returns to Shantiniketan following a decade-long prison sentence, having taken responsibility for a family tragedy. Her return brings her back to a household that has changed significantly, with internal power struggles, unresolved conflicts and generational differences creating new challenges. The story also brings back familiar rivalries while focusing on the next generation of Virani heirs, including Angad, Vrinda and Karan. Tulsi once again finds herself trying to protect her family, repair fractured relationships and preserve the values associated with Shantiniketan. Produced by Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 airs on Star Plus in its flagship prime-time slot. Also Read:Smriti Irani features in Fortune 100 Most Powerful Women; tells women, You are enough
Father of Murder Victim Seeks Justice After Verdict in Meerut Case
Following a recent verdict, the father of murder victim Ketan Agrawal expresses hope for justice and demands the death penalty for the accused. Father of Murder Victim Seeks Justice After Verdict in Meerut Case
On the 71st birth anniversary of late actor Smita Patil on October 17, her husband Raj Babbar and son Prateik Smita Patil remembered her through heartfelt social media posts. While Raj reflected on her exceptional talent and lasting contribution to cinema, Prateik and his wife, actor Priya Banerjee, shared an emotional note describing Smita as his guardian angel. Smita Patil, regarded as one of the most accomplished actors of her generation, died on December 13, 1986, at the age of 31 due to complications following childbirth. Nearly four decades after her death, her work continues to be remembered for its depth and impact on Indian cinema. Raj Babbar remembers Smita Patil on her birth anniversary Raj Babbar paid tribute to his late wife by recalling her sensitivity as an actor and the lasting impression she left through her performances. Sharing his note, he wrote, Smita had a rare sensitivity. Though her journey was tragically brief, her artistry left an indelible imprint. She didnt merely portray characters - she breathed life into their very souls. He further added, I miss her. Her warmth, her extraordinary talent, and everything that made her so special. Remembering Smita Patil on her birth anniversary. Her legacy continues to inspire, move, and resonate across generations. Artists leave this world when they are called - but Smita left behind a part of herself in every heart she touched. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raj Babbar (@rajbabbarmp) Prateik Smita Patil and Priya Banerjee share emotional note Prateik and Priya Banerjee also remembered Smita with a joint social media post. Addressing her as his guardian angel, Prateik expressed his belief that her presence and blessings continue to guide him through life. The note began, happy forever heavenly birthday my guardian angel / this physical world was too weak to witness our love but we always had other plans. The note further read, i feel your blessings and protection through every moment of my existence and more deeply with the moments in this journey that are meant to define me and understand who i really am and why we chose this journey together and for eachother Reflecting on the bond he feels with his mother, he continued, in retrospect i now understand how and why youve always been watching over me blessing me and protecting me from this cruel world through victory and defeat through the inevitable and deceit. View this post on Instagram A post shared by prateik smita patil (@_prat) The post also spoke about their connection in spiritual terms. energy can neither be created nor destroyed but then weve so beautifully and carefully created an energy that was always written to be intertwined with our souls and be limitless and it most certainly can never be destroyed / our spark will never fade our fire will never diminish our light will always burn bright Smita Patil was born on October 17, 1955, and went on to establish herself as a prominent figure in Indian cinema through performances that earned her critical acclaim. Her filmography included several significant works, and her approach to portraying complex characters continues to be discussed by film enthusiasts. The actor gave birth to her son, Prateik Babbar, on November 28, 1986. She developed a severe postpartum infection and died on December 13, 1986, at a Mumbai hospital. Her death at the age of 31 came as a shock to the film industry. Also Read:Prateik Smita Patil pays heartfelt tribute to maternal grandfather on Fathers Day 2026: Words cannot express how lucky I was
Prayagraj-Asarwa Special Train to Start from October 21, Dungarpur to Get a Halt
Dungarpur, October 17, 2026: Indian Railways has decided to operate a weekly special train between Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh and Asarwa in Gujarat to manage the increase in Prayagraj-Asarwa Special Train to Start from October 21, Dungarpur to Get a Halt
Jailer 2 Review: Dopamine-Filled Instagram Reels Masquerading As Cinema, With The Stale So-Called
There is an old joke about upma. Throw in every vegetable in the kitchen, add some seasoning and hope for the best. But if the basic preparation is bad, no amount of garnish can save it. Jailer 2 is the cinematic equivalent. Nelson Dilipkumar has thrown in almost every available star: Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, [] The post Jailer 2 Review: Dopamine-Filled Instagram Reels Masquerading As Cinema, With The Stale So-Called Rajinism Upma Made Edible By Anirudhs Cooking appeared first on The Commune .
Nana Patekars son Malhar addresses Tanushree Dutta allegations: The truth will remain the truth
Late actor Nana Patekars son, Malhar Patekar, has addressed the allegations made against his father by actor Tanushree Dutta, while also dismissing reports about his parents relationship and family dynamics. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Malhar said the legal case related to the allegations had already concluded and questioned why the matter kept being discussed. Without naming Tanushree, he said he had nothing further to add. Without naming anyone, I want to say that the case people are bringing up unnecessarily is already over. Judiciary se clear hua hain, case khatam ho chuka; phir bhi bol rahe [the case is over; they still keep talking], he said. Malhar added, Aise logo ko mein unko kuch nahi bolunga; joh sach hai wahi rahega, bhagwan unka bhala kare [I have nothing to say to such people. The truth will remain the truth. May God bless them], this is what I have to say to them. What Tanushree Dutta had alleged against Nana Patekar In 2018, Tanushree Dutta accused Nana Patekar and others of sexual harassment on the sets of Horn OK Pleasss. She had alleged that an incident took place during the filming of the movie and subsequently quit the project. The allegations resurfaced during Indias #MeToo movement, with Tanushree reiterating her claims against Nana, choreographer Ganesh Acharya and the films producer. Following Nana Patekars death on October 8 in Goa, Tanushree shared a video on her Instagram Stories in which she referred to the late actor as an evil dead. She later spoke to the media about the allegations and said that she would not forget what she claimed had happened on the sets of the film. Nana Patekar died of a heart attack in Goa after reportedly experiencing chest pain early in the morning. He was later cremated with full state honours at his farmhouse in Pune in the presence of family, friends and members of the film fraternity. Also Read:Nana Patekars autopsy CONFIRMS heart attack caused by blood clot in left main coronary artery: Report
Priyanka Chopra wishes Varanasi star Prithviraj a happy birthday
Mumbai: Global sensation Priyanka Chopra wished her Varanasi co-star Prithviraj Sukumaran on his birthday on Friday. She took to her Instagram Stories and reshared the wish for Prithviraj by the makers of Varanasi. Wishing the South actor on his special day, PeeCee referred to him by the name of his character in their much- anticipated Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Karnataka HC Notice On Royal Fragrances Plea Over Bengaluru IT Park Land
Karnataka High Court has issued notice on a petition filed by Royal Fragrances Private Limited seeking a direction to the KIADB to consider initiating resumption proceedings over land earmarked for an IT park.
Gujarat chemical plant blast kills 5, injures 5 in Bharuch district
As many as five workers were killed and five others injured after an explosion ripped through a chemical manufacturing unit in Gujarat's Bharuch district, officials said on Saturday. The blast occurred around 10 pm on Friday during a hydrogenation process at SynZeal Pharmachem in the Saykha GIDC area in Vagra taluka, triggering a toxic leak of methylene dichloride (MDC) gas, they said. SynZeal Pharmachem, set up in Saykha only a year ago, has been manufacturing pharma intermediaries, Bharuch Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manisha Manani said. The explosion, suspected to have occurred during a hydrogenation process, was so powerful that it ripped apart the reactor tank, scattering machinery parts across the premises, she said. Superintendent of Police Akshyaraj Makwana told PTI that five people were killed in the blast, while five others sustained injuries. The deceased were identified as Jaydeep Maheshbhai Patel and Bhavik Dilipkumar Vasava, both hailing from Amod; Vrund Talaviya from
Pink celebrates 25 years of Get the Party Started: Ill never get sick of it
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 17 (IANS) Singer Pink celebrated 25 years of her hit song Get the Party Started, thanking everyone for continuing to sing along to the track since its release in 2001. Pink took to Instagram, where she shared a string of videos of her performing the number live along with the original music video of the number. She expressed her disbelief at the milestone and gratitude to fans for showing up for the song over the years. Twenty-effing-five years. Can you believe it? Youve been screaming this song louder than me since 2001, and Ill never get sick of it. Thank you for showing up to this party every single time, Pink wrote as the caption. Get the Party Started is a lead single from her second album, Missundaztood. Written by Linda Perry, the song was originally offered to Madonna, who passed on it. Pink, who was eager to work with Perry, later agreed to record the track. Get the Party Started reached the top 10 in many countries and topping the charts of Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Romania, Spain, and Wallonia. Pink is known for her acrobatic stage presence. At age 15, Pink formed the short-lived girl group Choice, which signed with LaFace Records in 1995, although they disbanded without major releases. Her debut studio album, Can't Take Me Home, received double platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Pink gained further recognition for her 2001 collaborative single Lady Marmalade from the soundtrack of Moulin Rouge!, which peaked atop 13 international charts, including the US, and earned her first Grammy Award for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. Pink shifted to pop rock with her second album, Missundaztood, which sold over 13 million copies worldwide and yielded three Top 10 singles: Get the Party Started, Don't Let Me Get Me, and Just Like a Pill. Her fourth and fifth studio albums, I'm Not Dead and Funhouse, saw a commercial rebound and spawned the Top 10 singles Who Knew and U + Ur Hand, as well as the US No. 1 single So What. She scored her third and fourth US No. 1 hits with Raise Your Glass as well as Just Give Me a Reason from her sixth album The Truth About Love, which became her first to top the US Billboard 200. In 2014, Pink formed the collaborative folk duo You+Me with Dallas Green and released the album Rose Ave..Her following albums, Beautiful Trauma and Hurts 2B Human. Her ninth and latest studio album, Trustfall, peaked at No. 2 on the chart.
Meet Kumar Kushagra, India's Latest ODI Pick
From a Duleep Trophy hundred to a Player of the Match performance against Australia A, Kumar Kushagra's recent form has earned him his first India call-up.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 16 (IANS) Actor Avtar Gill remembered late actress Smita Patil on her birth anniversary. He recalled their professional association in five films and the warm friendship they shared beyond the screen. Taking to Instagram, Avtar paid a heartfelt tribute to the actress, describing her as an extraordinary talent, a remarkable performer and a beautiful human being. He also recalled the kindness and warmth that made her special to those who knew her personally. Remembering the late, great Smita Patil on her birth anniversary. An extraordinary talent, a remarkable performer, and, beyond all that, a truly beautiful human being, he wrote. Recalling his association with Smita, Avtar said he had the privilege of working with her in five films, including Waaris, Ghulami, Thikana, Hum Farishte Nahin, and Raahi. Beyond their professional association, the actor said he was fortunate to have known her personally and shared a wonderful friendship with her. What I remember most fondly is her kindness, her warmth, and the genuine care she had for the people around her. She possessed a rare grace that went far beyond her immense talent and a humanity that made her truly special, he added. The Baghban actor further reflected on the legacy Smita left behind, saying that some people are remembered not only for their work but also for the affection and lasting impressions they leave on the hearts of those who knew them. She is remembered with admiration by generations of admirers, and with deep affection by those of us who were fortunate enough to call her a friend, he wrote, adding, Happy birthday, Smita. You are fondly remembered, deeply missed, and never forgotten. Avtar also shared throwback pictures featuring himself, Smita Patil, and veteran actor Amrish Puri in scenes from their films. Smita Patil was one of the most acclaimed actresses of Indian cinema, known for her performances in films such as Bhumika, Manthan, Arth, and Mirch Masala. She died on December 13, 1986, at the age of 31.
By Divya Malhotra Compliments can make you feel good, while criticism can sometimes leave you questioning yourself. Actor Sameera Reddy believes the trick is not to let either define your confidence. The actress, who attended the Lakme Fashion Week on October 16, spoke about her journey with self-love, the supportive community women have built around her on Instagram, and why she encourages her children to look within themselves rather than seek approval from others. Reddy, who regularly uses her Instagram account to promote self-love and body positivity, said she was happy to see the kind of community women had built around her online. She also pointed out how the nature of compliments she receives has changed over the years. Recalling her time in films, Reddy said she would often receive compliments from men, but the response she gets today is largely from women, especially mothers and young girls.
Dr Shriram Nene recalls Hindu wedding with Madhuri Dixit as he marks their 27th wedding anniversary
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 16 (IANS) Dr Shriram Nene recalled his Hindu wedding with actress Madhuri Dixit as the couple marked their 27th wedding anniversary. Taking to Instagram, Shriram shared a heartfelt note reflecting on their journey together. He recalled how they celebrated their love with family, traditions, blessings, and the sacred vows of their Hindu wedding. Two days after saying I do, we celebrated our love with family, traditions, blessings, and the sacred vows of our Hindu wedding. On October 17, 1999, we promised to walk through life together, side by side, through every joy, challenge, and adventure, he wrote. Looking back at their 27 years of marriage, he said the seven steps they took during their wedding had taken them further than they could ever have imagined. 27 years later, those seven steps have taken us further than we could ever have imagined. From two people in love to a beautiful family and a lifetime of shared dreams, what a remarkable journey it has been, Shriram added. Calling Madhuri his favourite person, best friend and greatest adventure, Nene expressed his love for his wife and looked forward to spending more years together. Madhuri, youre still my favourite person, my best friend, and my greatest adventure. Heres to walking the next million steps together, he wrote. Nene also shared some rare photographs from their wedding and intimate celebrations with family and friends. The pictures offer a glimpse into their early days together, capturing moments from their ring ceremony and festivities with their loved ones. For the unversed, the couple tied the knot on October 17, 1999. They are parents to two sons, Arin and Ryan. Madhuri was introduced to Shriram Nene by her brother, and the two dated for six months before tying the knot. At the peak of her Bollywood career, Madhuri moved to the US after their marriage, before the couple eventually returned to India.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 17 (IANS) Hollywood star Sandra Bullock on Friday celebrated 28 years of her 1998 fantasy romantic drama Practical Magic, reflecting on how the film, which initially received a polarised response from critics, went on to become a beloved story about love, heartbreak and courage. Bullock took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures and videos from the 1998 American fantasy romantic comedy drama film based on the 1995 novel by Alice Hoffman. 28 years ago today, the first Practical Magic premiered. It was quite polarizing, with critics saying it had too many women, a tone that couldnt quite find its footing, and was somehow too scary for children and too childish for adults. But what it was, at its heart, was a story about how we choose to love courageously, even in the face of heartbreak, Bullock wrote as the caption. The actress honoured the original film and encouraged fans to continue being courageous with their hearts. She wrote: Somewhere along the way, it found its audience and became something far greater than any of us could have imagined. Now, 28 years later, theres another chapter to the story with Practical Magic 2. The actress said that the new chapter, which is the new installment, is full of women. This new chapter is still full of women, maybe a little too scary for children, and just the right amount of childish for adults. As Alice Hoffman wrote, My darling girl, when are you going to realize that being normal is not necessarily a virtue? It rather denotes a lack of courage. Today, I want to honor the first film. Bullock added: Happy Practical Magic Day to those who celebrate, dont stop being courageous with your heart. The film was directed by Griffin Dunne and stars Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing, and Aidan Quinn. Bullock and Kidman play sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, descended from a long line of witches. Raised by their aunts after their parents' death from a family curse, the sisters are taught the uses of practical magic as they grow up. Years later, they must use their magic to destroy the evil spirit of Gillian's abusive boyfriend before it kills them.
Taylor Swift is reportedly skipping the Chiefs next home game for an Academy Museum Gala performance, as Travis Kelces Instagram like of a Shane Gillis SNL clip draws attention and reports of time apart surface.
Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi will host the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Air Force Day Aerial Display-2026 at Namo Ghat from October 22 to October 25, with fighter aircraft, aerobatic formations and helicopter displays expected to be part of the event. According to the statement by Wing Commander Debartho Dhar, Public Relations Officer and spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, Prayagraj, the aerial display, titled
Dancing Salaryman Pokes Fun at Japan
Toru Utsumi has won more than a million fans on TikTok and Instagram with short, fancy-free videos.
Govt issues clarification on legislative developments concerning its shareholding in IDBI Bank
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 17 (IANS) The government on Saturday issued a clarification on the legislative developments in 2003 concerning the governments shareholding in IDBI Bank, saying the legislative history of the IDBI (Repeal) Act, 2003, the judicial pronouncement of the Delhi High Court and successive Union Budget speeches collectively demonstrate the evolution of the Governments policy towards the strategic disinvestment of IDBI Bank. The Finance Ministry said that certain sections of press and media have brought out reports, which inter alia have comments/ views regarding the legislative developments in 2003 concerning the Governments shareholding in IDBI. It is reiterated that during the discussions of Union Budget, 2003 and the parliamentary debate on the IDBI (Repeal) Act, 2003, an amendment seeking to restrict the dilution of the Governments stake was moved but was ultimately rejected and did not form part of the enacted legislation, the ministry clarified. The matter was subsequently examined by the Delhi High Court in All India IDBI Officers Association vs. Union of India and Others, decided on December 17, 2018. The judgment dated December 17, 2018 clarifies beyond doubt that the doctrine of promissory estoppel cannot be invoked on the basis of statements made during parliamentary debates to restrict the Governments power to dilute its shareholding in the IDBI Bank Ltd. The Court further held that the enacted legislation contained no prohibition against reducing the Governments stake in the IDBI Bank Ltd. The court, while dismissing the writ petition, adjudicated in paragraphs 41 and 42. Paragraph 41 said that This Court is of the view that the statements made before the House almost 15 years earlier, in a debate relating to a legislative activity, would not preclude the Central Government from diluting its stake in IDBI Ltd. Indisputably, the legislation enacted by the Parliament after the debate did not contain the amendment that was sought to be introduced. The statements made before the House cannot substitute or override the statue so enacted by the Parliament. Surely, the Parliament was conscious of the import of not including the proviso as proposed. The principles of promissory estoppel are wholly inapplicable in the aforesaid context. It is not possible to accept that the statements made in Parliament amounted to a representation made to the employees, and they had acted to their prejudice based on such representation. The statements made before the House were in the context of enacting a legislation (the IDBI Repeal Act, 2003), and the said Act has to be interpreted in conformity with the settled principles of statutory interpretation. On the other hand, Paragraph 42 said that There is no ambiguity in the language of the IDBI Repeal Act, 2003 and there is no scope to read any provision into the said enactment which proscribes the Government from reducing or divesting its stake in IDBI Ltd. The aforesaid judgment is significant as it specifically addresses the doctrine of promissory estoppel, which was relied upon in challenging the Governments decision to dilute its shareholding. The doctrine could not be invoked to prevent the Government from reducing or divesting its stake in IDBI Ltd, said the official statement. The Union Budget 201617 speech of then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley (Paragraph 93) said that Our Public Sector Banks will have to be strong and competitive. The Bank Board Bureau will be operationalised during 2016-17 and a roadmap for consolidation of Public Sector Banks will be spelt out. The process of transformation of IDBI Bank has already started. Government will take it forward and also consider the option of reducing its stake to below 50%. The Union Budget 202122 speech of then Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (Paragraph 84) said that In spite of COVID-19, we have kept working towards strategic disinvestment. A number of transactions namely BPCL, Air India, Shipping Corporation of India, Container Corporation of India, IDBI Bank, BEML, Pawan Hans, Neelachal Ispat Nigam limited among others would be completed in 2021-22. Other than IDBI Bank, we propose to take up the privatization of two Public Sector Banks and one General Insurance company in the year 2021-22. This would require legislative amendments and I propose to introduce the amendments in this Session itself.
Raj Babbar remembers Smita Patil on her 71st birth anniversary: I miss her
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 17 (IANS) Veteran actor-politician Raj Babbar remembered his late actress-wife Smita Patil on her 71st birth anniversary on Saturday, paying a tribute to her extraordinary talent, warmth and enduring legacy. Calling her an artist with rare sensitivity, Raj took to Instagram, shared a picture of the late actress, and said Smita breathed life into the soul of every character she portrayed. He wrote in the caption: Smita had a rare sensitivity. Though her journey was tragically brief, her artistry left an indelible imprint. She didnt merely portray characters - she breathed life into their very souls. I miss her. Her warmth, her extraordinary talent, and everything that made her so special. Remembering Smita Patil on her birth anniversary. Her legacy continues to inspire, move, and resonate across generations. Artists leave this world when they are called - but Smita left behind a part of herself in every heart she touched, concluded Raj. Raj and Smita Patil first met on the sets of the 1982 film Bheegi Palkein. Their son, actor Prateik was born on 28 November 1986. The late star died from childbirth complications on 13 December 1986 at the age of 31. After her death, Prateik was raised by her parents in Mumbai Her last work included Galiyon Ka Badshah. Directed by Sher Jung Singh, the film stars Raaj Kumar, Hema Malini, Mithun Chakraborty, Poonam Dhillon, Smita Patil, Aruna Irani, Ranjeet, Danny Denzongpa, Om Shivpuri, Iftekhar. The film was shot and completed several years before its delayed release and also marked the final film of Smita Patil, who died in 1986. Talking about Raj, he was last seen as an actor in the 2024 film Ek Kori Prem Katha directed by Chinmay Purohit and written by Saba Mumtaz. It stars Akshay Oberoi, Khanak Budhiraja, Raj Babbar, Poonam Dhillon and Darshan Jariwala.
Gujarat Factory Blast: 5 Killed, 6 Injured After Reactor Explodes At Bharuch's Synjeel Pharmachem
In a massive reactor blast at Synjeel Pharmachem in Gujarat's Bharuch district late Friday night killed five workers and injured six others. The accident occurred during a hydrogenation process at the company's plant in Saykha GIDC, located in Vagra
'Scene' actor Suriya warns students about Instagram reels
CM Punks Cryptic Star Wars Post On Instagram Ahead Of SmackDown Raises Questions
CM Punk has shared a cryptic Star Wars quote about a major deal ahead of his expected WWE SmackDown return. The post comes after his Money in the Bank loss, while reports suggest a possible Cody Rhodes rematch at WrestleMania 43.
SamagraShiksha seeks report on 10 bagless days in J&K schools
Srinagar, Oct 16:In a latest development, Project Directorate of J&K SamagraShiksha has sought an action-taken report from the Chief Education Officers (CEOs) across J&K regarding the implementation of the guidelines for the 10 bagless days in schools for class 6th to 8th students. A fresh circular in this regard has been issued by the Administrative Officer, SamagraShiksha, J&K, Ashwini Kumar, with instructions to all the CEOs to submit the consolidated monthly report of their respective districts by the 5th of every month. As per the official communication, the guidelines issued by the NCERT last year set out the guidelines for implementation of 10 Bagless Days for classes 6th to 8th in government schools. The initiative aims to strengthen experiential learning, vocational exposure and competency-based education among students through structured skill-based activities integrated in school education, the communication reads. The beauty of the bagless days lies in how it exemplifies the right touch of vocationalisation of education in the context of meaningful physical participation of all students through experiential activities using all 3HsHead, Hand and Heart, it reads. As per the communication, the guidelines have been issued to help schools to implement the activities in a systematic way. In this connection, I am directed to request you to kindly circulate the guidelines to all schools, viz. HSS/HS/MS where 6th to 8th classes are running, for successful implementation of the 10-Bagless Days as per NEP 2020 in letter and spirit, it reads. Talking to Greater Kashmir , Administrative Officer JK SamagraShiksha said the guidelines were already being implemented in schools since last year, but the fresh communication has been issued to seek an action-taken report. The bagless days are already observed, and guidelines were implemented in schools as the communications were issued by the respective directors of education to schools in this regard. We have sent a communication only to seek an action-taken report as it is not coming to us yet, he told Greater Kashmir . He said that observing bagless days in schools is for pre-vocational awareness and promotion of vocational education taught to students from class 9th onwards. During the 10 bagless days, all the academic activities remain suspended for classes 6th to 8th, and students experience activity-based learning so that they develop an interest in vocational education, he said.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Reportedly Take Time Apart After His Instagram Scandal Sparks Backlash
Taylor Swift reportedly skips the Chiefs game to focus on her Oscar ambitions as Travis Kelce faces backlash for liking Shane Gillis controversial SNL monologue on Instagram.
Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Reportedly Facing Questions After Shane Gillis SNL Video Controversy
Taylor Swift reportedly takes time apart from Travis Kelce after his Instagram activity sparked backlash over Shane Gillis controversial SNL monologue, while she focuses on her music career and Oscar ambitions.
Schools to roll out 10 bagless days
Srinagar, Oct 16: The Directorate of Samagra Shiksha, J&K, has directed government schools to implement 10 Bagless Days for students of Classes 6 to 8 in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. In a communication dated October 14, 2026, Administrative Officer Samagra Shiksha, Ashwini Kumar, asked Chief Education Officers across J&K to circulate the guidelines to all government higher secondary, high and middle schools where Classes 6 to 8 are taught. The initiative aims to promote experiential learning, vocational exposure and competency-based education through structured, skill-based activities integrated into school education. According to the communication, the Bagless Days initiative seeks to encourage students to participate in practical learning activities that develop skills through physical participation and learning by doing. The directorate has stated that the guidelines will help schools implement the activities in a systematic manner. The initiative is intended to strengthen the link between classroom education and practical skills. The Chief Education Officers have also been asked to ensure the successful implementation of the programme in their respective districts. They must submit a consolidated monthly progress report by the fifth of every month through the designated email address. The communication further directs district-level authorities to ensure that the guidelines reach all concerned schools for implementation in letter and spirit. The Bagless Days initiative is part of the broader educational reforms under NEP 2020, which emphasises practical learning, vocational skills and the overall development of students.
'Under attack' from fragrance, Hanoi prunes its famous blossoms
Hanoi is pruning hundreds of its iconic milkwood trees after residents complained the blossoms are causing daily discomfort, breathing issues.
Jake Lloyd, who captured hearts as the young Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: Episode I, stepped back from the spotlight to confront his mental health struggles, including a schizophrenia diagnosis in 2008. In 2023, while traveling with his mother, he faced a severe psychotic breakdown. Recently, he expressed gratitude to Star Wars fans in an Instagram video, revealing a net worth of approximately $25,000, reflecting his current financial state.
Prayagrajs oldest Durga Puja barwaris uphold tradition in 2026
28 Years of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai: Kajol brings back Anjalis magic with a new picture
Nearly three decades after Kuch Kuch Hota Hai introduced audiences to Anjali, Kajols portrayal of the character continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans. Known for her humour, lively personality and emotional journey, Anjali remains one of the memorable characters in Hindi cinema. Marking 28 years of the film, Kajol took to Instagram to share a new picture of herself in a red hoodie, bringing back memories of her much-loved character. Sharing the picture, Kajol wrote, Can magic ever be recreated? Heres Anjali a couple of years later. Her playful caption revisited the characters enduring appeal, while the red hoodie and her overall look reminded fans of Anjalis signature tomboy style. The post also offered an opportunity to look back at a film that continues to resonate with audiences years after its release. Released in 1998, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was directed by Karan Johar and featured Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji in lead roles. The romantic drama became known for its memorable characters and emotional storyline, with Kajols Anjali emerging as one of its highlights. Her portrayal brought together humour, friendship and vulnerability, making the character relatable to audiences across generations. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kajol Devgan (@kajol) Anjalis bond with Rahul, played by Shah Rukh Khan, and her journey through love and friendship were central to the films story. Over the years, the character has remained a familiar part of popular culture, with her distinctive style and personality continuing to evoke nostalgia among viewers. Kajol has since appeared in a range of films and explored different roles throughout her career. Most recently, she was seen in Maa, a film that presented her in a different setting from the romantic drama that helped establish Anjali as a memorable screen character. Her anniversary post serves as a reminder of the lasting connection audiences have with certain film characters. Twenty-eight years after Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was released, Anjali continues to be remembered by fans, and Kajols latest picture has brought the character back into focus. Also Read : Kajol attends 80th North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja in red and orange silk saree; see pics
Veteran actress Saira Banu took to social media to wish Hema Malini on her birthday, sharing memories of their friendship and experiences in the film industry. From laughter-filled encounters with Rekha to a memorable mahurat shot featuring Dharmendra and Shashi Kapoor, Sairas note reflected on Hemas lively personality and the moments they shared over the years. She also remembered Dharmendra, who was closely associated with several cherished chapters of Hemas life. Recalling her friendship with Hema Malini and Rekha, Saira spoke about their meetings at film gatherings during the 1970s and their shared interest in fitness and yoga. She also recounted an amusing incident when she and Hema tried using an exercise instrument designed to broaden their shoulders. Saira Banu wrote, The three of us, Hema, Rekha and I, have always shared a rather special bond. Of course, age-wise, I am the senior of the three! Hema entered Hindi films with Sapno Ka Saudagar in 1968, followed by Rekha with Saawan Bhadon in 1970. Through the 70s, we would often meet at film gatherings, premieres and functions, sharing stories, laughter and our many common interests. One such interest was exercise! We were all rather dedicated to fitness and yoga, perhaps among the first heroines of our time to take it so seriously. I remember Hema and I once trying an exercise instrument meant to broaden our shoulders. We were so enthusiastic that we literally puffed them up! One look at each other and we burst into laughter, realising we had certainly overdone it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saira Banu Khan (@sairabanu) Saira also shared another humorous memory from a visit by Hema to her home. On that occasion, an uncle accompanying Hema accidentally walked into a large transparent glass door, causing it to come crashing down. Although the incident initially left everyone alarmed, Hemas laughter soon turned the situation into a moment of shared amusement. Recalling the incident, she wrote, Hema has always been wonderfully vivacious in the company of friends. I remember her visiting my home with an Uncle who failed to notice a large transparent glass door and walked straight into it, bringing the entire thing crashing down! While we were all alarmed, Hema broke into such uncontrollable laughter that soon we were laughing along with her. The veteran actress also revisited a mahurat shot for Ramanand Sagar Ji, which brought Hema, Dharmendra, Shashi Kapoor and Saira together. She remembered how Hemas playful teasing of Shashi continued even as the camera was about to roll, leaving everyone struggling to contain their laughter. Recalling the moment, Saira wrote, Another memory I treasure is of a Mahurat Shot for Ramanand Sagar ji, where Hema, Dharam ji, Shashi Kapoor and I were together. Hema was teasing Shashi with her usual mischief, and even as the camera was ready to roll, we simply couldnt stop laughing. That was Hema, full of life, laughter and delightful spontaneity! Behind the magnificent artiste, the graceful dancer and the Dream Girl adored by millions, I have always known a warm, affectionate and wonderfully playful woman. Sairas birthday message also included an emotional reflection on Dharmendra and the memories he and Hema had made together. Acknowledging that this birthday might feel different for Hema, she expressed her affection for her friend and spoke about how shared experiences continue to hold meaning over time. She wrote, As I sit down to write this birthday note for you, Hema, my heart is filled with memories of the wonderful years we have shared. This year, I find myself thinking of Dharam ji too, who was such an inseparable part of so many beautiful moments in your life. I know this birthday will feel different, but the love and memories of a lifetime have a beautiful way of staying with us. Concluding her message, Saira wished Hema good health, happiness and peace. She also hoped that the affection of those around her and the memories she shared with Dharmendra would bring her comfort. My dear Hema, this birthday may feel a little different, but I hope you find comfort in the love surrounding you and the countless beautiful memories you and Dharam ji created together. Some bonds are far too precious for time or distance to ever diminish. From the golden days of our cinema to the little moments away from the cameras, our friendship has given me memories I shall always treasure. On your birthday, I send you all my affection and prayers for good health, happiness, and peace. May that beautiful, infectious laughter of yours continue to fill every room you enter. Stay blessed, my dearest Hema. You will always be our Dream Girl, not just on screen, but in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know you. Also Read : Saira Banu recalls dreaming of marrying Dilip Kumar at 12 on their wedding anniversary: I wished to become an integral part of Sahibs life
Can social media bans protect young people
The year 2026 has been an expensive one for social media platforms. Since March, YouTube and Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, have settled or paid out in multiple lawsuits totaling more than $17 billion for allegedly acting negligently, deliberately designing their platforms to hook kids and misleading the public about safety and privacy. If these suits are any indication of how states and the public are starting to view social media platforms, more may follow.
Gill To Captain India In First Three ODIs Against NZ, Iyer To Lead In Last Two Games
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Keeping in mind the short turnaround time between the Test and ODI series against New Zealand, ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer will take charge for the final two games after Shubman Gill leads the visitors in the first three matches. While Gill leads the 16-member setup for the opening three fixtures with Iyer as his deputy, a reshuffle in the last two games will see Iyer elevated to the captaincy role. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who features in both squads, has been named vice-captain for the fourth and fifth ODIs. Senior batting stars and former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be available for the entire duration of the ODI series, alongside all-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, and Naman Dhir. Regular wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, along with pacers Anshul Kamboj and Prasidh Krishna, whose inclusion for the opening phase remains subject to fitness and recovery from his left hamstring injury, will feature only in the first three ODI matches before they take off to prepare for the Test series. For the final two ODI games, the selectors have drafted left-handed batter Tilak Varma and pacer Auqib Nabi, while Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra and fast bowler Yash Thakur, who has played T20Is so far, have been handed their maiden ODI call-ups. Other members in the ODI squads are left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, seamer Mohammed Siraj, and left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, alongside tall pacer Gurnoor Brar and right-handed batter Ruturaj Gaikwad. Contrary to various speculation, theres no recall for senior pacer Mohammed Shami or Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was added to the squad for the fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru and will be in the T20I series in New Zealand starting on October 22. The five-match ODI series between India and New Zealand will kick off on November 4, at Eden Park in Auckland, and is followed by the second ODI at Basin Reserve in Wellington on November 7. The action then shifts to Seddon Park, Hamilton, for the third match on November 10, before the series concludes with back-to-back games at Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15, respectively. All five matches of the series are scheduled to start at 7:30 AM IST. Indias ODI squad for the first three games: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan (wk), Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Kuldeep Yadav The action then shifts to Seddon Park, Hamilton, for the third match on November 10, before the series concludes with back-to-back games at Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15, respectively. All five matches of the series are scheduled to start at 7:30 AM IST. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Meta employees said Lula's accounts were hindered during Brazil election,
Employees at Meta acknowledged in internal communications that the Instagram accounts of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva were negatively affected by restrictions during the country's election, newspaper Folha de S.Paulo reported on Friday, citing messages it
Saif makes Instagram debut; son Ibrahim asks, 'Is this you, Abba, no na?'
Koffee With Karan Season 9 trends at No. 1 in India, UK, Canada and Singapore on JioHotstar
Hotstar Specials Koffee with Karan Season 9, the chat shows final season, has opened to a strong response, trending at No. 1 on JioHotstar across India, the UK, Canada and Singapore. The premiere also generated conversations on social media, with discussions trending in the entertainment category on X and Instagram seeing reaction reels, reviews and audience responses to the episode. The season opened with Salman Khan as the sole guest on the couch, marking a departure from the shows usual format. During the conversation, the actor spoke candidly about his personal life, revealing that he hopes to have children someday and explaining why he prefers to keep certain aspects of his life private. He also spoke about sharing his bedroom with a mysterious, other-worldly presence. Salman further recalled offering to appear in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai without charging a fee because of his affection for Yash Johar, who treated him like a son. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JioHotstar Reality (@jiohotstarreality) One of the episodes key moments came with the surprise appearance of Karisma Kapoor, Salmans friend and co-star in more than 10 films. She joined the show to host the rapid-fire round, prompting a series of light-hearted exchanges between the two. Salman jokingly referred to Karisma as his longest living affair and recalled a prank from their shooting days that had once left her in tears. Their on-screen interaction also prompted viewers to call for a reunion between the two actors, while the episode brought back memories of their films from the 1990s. Alok Jain, Head, Hindi & English Entertainment Business (Streaming, TV & Studios), JioStar, said, Koffee with Karan is a powerful example of what a homegrown IP can achieve when it stays true to its voice. Built in India with an unmistakably Indian sensibility, the show has earned a loyal audience at home and is finding resonance with viewers across markets. Its opening performance reaffirms our belief that strong, culturally rooted franchises travel, and that investing in iconic Indian IPs is central to how we build lasting engagement on JioHotstar. Season 9 also marks a first for the streaming platforms partnership with NBCUniversal. The show is The Peacock Hubs first Indian collaboration and the first time NBCUniversal and JioHotstar have partnered on a homegrown show. Karan Johar, host and creator of Koffee with Karan, said, Koffee with Karan has always been about nostalgia for me. It is a show that has grown up alongside its audience, and opening the final season with Salman, and Lolo walking in as a surprise, felt like flipping through an old family album. What has truly thrilled me is seeing the love pour in from beyond India. Knowing that viewers in the UK, Canada and Singapore have taken the show to No. 1, and are tuning in, laughing and sharing reels with us, makes this last chapter even more special. Theres plenty more brewing this season, so keep your cups ready! Hotstar Specials Koffee with Karan Season 9 is streaming exclusively on The Peacock Hub on JioHotstar. New episodes are released every Wednesday at 7 PM. Also Read : Koffee With Karan 9: Salman Khan takes a dig at Karan Johar over Shah Rukh Khan feud; says, You were scared of me because of Shah Rukh Khan
Priyanka Chopra Jonas was among the honourees at the third annual InStyle Imagemaker Awards in Los Angeles on October 15, where she received the special Woman of Impact Award. The honour was presented by actors Megan Suri, Avantika Vandanapu and Amita Rao. The award recognises Priyanka's influence in challenging stereotypes, amplifying voices and expanding opportunities for women in Hollywood. Her career spans Indian cinema and international entertainment, and she works as an actor, producer and entrepreneur. Through her production banner, Purple Pebble Pictures, she has backed diverse stories and new voices. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Patty Cardona (@mimixjerry) On the red carpet, Priyanka wore a pink ensemble by Matires Fcales from its Spring 2027 collection, styled by Law Roach. The outfit featured a plunging structured top with dramatic slit sleeves, a fitted pencil skirt and intricate gold embroidery. The look was crafted using Benarasi fabric sourced from Tilfi Benaras. She completed the outfit with square-toe sandals, stud earrings and a voluminous brunette blowout. Beyond the award and the fashion moment, Priyanka shared a light-hearted exchange with Heidi Klum at the event. The two were seen enjoying each other's company, adding a playful energy to the evening. The InStyle Imagemaker Awards celebrate the creative forces behind some of Hollywood's most memorable looks, including stylists, makeup artists, hairstylists and costume designers. For Priyanka, the Woman of Impact honour acknowledges an influence that extends beyond the screen and reflects her ongoing advocacy for greater representation in the industry. On the work front, Priyanka Chopra Jonas includes multiple projects in the pipeline including her much-awaited Indian comeback film Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli. The film, also starring Mahesh Babu in the lead role along with Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated to hit cinemas in April 2027. Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas says she is drawn to stories with depth and meaning after backing Hunkkaar: The Roar
Shanaya Kapoor took on showstopper duties for OBLIQUE, bringing the collections theme of alter egos to the runway. The actress appeared in a champagne-and-silver embellished ensemble that combined a contemporary silhouette with Art Deco-inspired detailing. The showcase explored ideas of identity and hidden personas through reflective elements, fluid silhouettes and structured designs. Kapoors outfit featured a cropped bustier with a plunging sweetheart neckline, wide straps and a cut-out at the midriff. Paired with a fitted column skirt, the ensemble stood out for its metallic embellishments and geometric embroidery. The skirt featured a chevron-patterned waistband, with detailing extending into geometric motifs and vertical beadwork. She completed the look with diamond cluster earrings, dewy makeup and her shoulder-length brunette bob styled in loose, windswept waves. The appearance added another fashion outing to Kapoors growing public profile. Her association with OBLIQUE also brought her into a collection centred on contrasts, using reflective textures and structured silhouettes to interpret the idea of an alter ego. Rather than relying on elaborate accessories, the look kept the focus on the ensemble, with its champagne-and-silver palette tying the different elements together. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pernia's Pop-Up Shop (@perniaspopupshop) Away from the runway, Kapoor has been building her screen career through projects across Hindi and regional cinema. She headlined Bejoy Nambiars romantic thriller Tu Yaa Main, which released in theatres in February 2026, and starred opposite Vikrant Massey in Santosh Singhs romantic musical drama Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. She was also associated with Vrushabha, the multilingual fantasy action drama headlined by Mohanlal and directed by Nanda Kishore, which marked her entry into a pan-Indian project. On the upcoming front, Kapoor is associated with Student of the Year 3, which is expected to take the franchise into the streaming space under Karan Johars Dharmatic Entertainment. She has also been linked to Zombie Reddy 2 (NXT LVL), the Telugu horror-comedy sequel directed by Suparn Varma. As Kapoor continues to explore opportunities across screen projects and fashion appearances, her turn as OBLIQUEs showstopper places her within a showcase that draws on contemporary design and personal expression. The runway appearance comes alongside her ongoing efforts to establish a presence across different film industries. Also Read: Shanaya Kapoor on adapting to South Cinema with Zombie Reddy 2 NXT LVL: Its all very larger than life
Sumukhi Suresh has Orry locked in for her stand-up special Hoemonal in hilarious reel!
Orry has shared a hilarious reel referencing comedian Sumukhi Suresh and her stand-up special, Hoemonal, giving fans a glimpse of his signature wit and humour. The reel takes a playful dig at the situation, suggesting that Sumukhi locked Orry in for the entire duration of her stand-up special. In the video, Orry confidently tells Sumukhi, I really think you need me to open your show. I can put you on the map, make you Pan-India famous. You can be the next me! His self-assured pitch adds to the humour, as he offers to be the opening act for the comedians show. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Orhan Awatramani (@orry) Adding to the humour, Orry captioned the reel, Closed the opening act real quick Watch Hoemonal, out now, on Netflix! His cheeky caption brings an amusing twist to the moment, playing on his offer to open the show and the reels suggestion that Sumukhi swiftly shut down the idea. With his trademark humour and knack for creating quirky social media moments, Orry has found a witty way to bring attention to Hoemonal, which is now streaming on Netflix. Also Read:Sumukhi Suresh joins Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026 lineup as the sole Indian comedian
Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee attend long-awaited Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee recently visited the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga temple in Ujjain, where they witnessed the sacred Bhasma Aarti. Gurmeet shared pictures from their spiritual visit on social media, describing the experience as something the couple had been looking forward to for a long time. Sharing glimpses from the temple, the actor expressed his gratitude for being able to attend the ceremony. In his Instagram post, Gurmeet wrote, Something we had been wishing to experience for the longest time. Witnessing the divine Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain was truly something else. Simply powerful. Deeply spiritual. A blessing beyond words. Har Har Mahadev! The Bhasma Aarti is one of the significant rituals performed at the Mahakaleshwar temple, which is among the 12 revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ceremony holds religious importance for devotees who visit the temple to seek blessings. Through his post, Gurmeet shared a glimpse of the experience and reflected on the spiritual significance of the visit. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gurmeet Choudhary (@guruchoudhary) In the pictures, Gurmeet and Debina were seen twinning in red outfits. One photograph showed the couple with folded hands as they sought blessings at the temple. Another captured Gurmeet looking at Debina, offering a glimpse of a personal moment during their visit. Debina Bonnerjee shares glimpses of family life Apart from their spiritual outing, Debina recently gave her followers a look at her everyday life with Gurmeet and their two daughters, Lianna and Divisha. The actress shared a series of candid photographs featuring different moments from their family routine. The pictures included fitness sessions, dressed-up outings and glimpses of their daughters exploring and learning new activities. Sharing the photographs, Debina captioned the post, Apparently, this is what my camera roll looks like these days. Gurmeet had also shared his thoughts on the meaning of home in an earlier social media post. Reflecting on how his family had changed his perspective on life, the actor wrote, Just thinking out loudHence decided to jot this down.. There was a time when I thought I was enough for myself and life would simply take its own course. Then Debina happened, and I realised that some journeys are meant to be shared. Bas laga jo hai, yahi hai aur hamesha hum hi hain And then our two little monkeys came along and changed everything, Gurmeet and Debina got married on February 15, 2011, and are parents to two daughters, Lianna and Divisha. The couple often shares glimpses of their family life and personal milestones on social media. Also Read : Gurmeet Choudhary and Isha Malviya bring romance to the screen in Tum Mere Ho title track, song out now

