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When Congress Leader Gaurav Gogoi Was Asked To Show Passport In Agra
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Monday condemned the brutal killing of Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura, in Dehradun, highlighting the discrimination faced by people from India's Northeast region.
City breathes easy as westerly winds sweep pollution away
On Monday, invigorating westerly winds swept through cities including Patna, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Prayagraj, enhancing air quality dramatically. Patna celebrated a milestone, achieving its best AQI this month with readings landing in the 'satisfactory' category.
Happy New Year 2026: As 2026 approaches, heartfelt wishes and messages offer a way to connect with loved ones. The article provides a collection of greetings for family, friends, and romantic partners. It also includes short messages for social media and inspiring quotes. These sentiments aim to spread joy and hope for the coming year.
WPL 2026: Ex-Australia Player Kristen Beams Appointed MI's Spin Bowling Coach
ODI World Cup: Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have appointed former Australia leg-spinner Kristen Beams as their spin bowling coach for the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) season, the franchise announced on Monday. It's my first time as a coach here. It's an incredible opportunity to work with someone like Jhulan Goswami, one of the greats of the game, and somebody I played cricket against. Incredible culture that they've developed a winning culture over a really long period of time, but a family, and that's what you hear everyone talk about, that this group is so tight knit, and it's a family, and it's what you want to be a part of, said Kristen in a video posted on the franchises Instagram account on Monday. Kristen was an instrumental player in Australia's World Cup campaigns, finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker in the 2017 Womens ODI World Cup in England. Her international career spanned 1 Test, 30 ODIs and 18 T20Is, and 45 T20 games in the WBBL, before she ended her playing career to move to coaching. I think as a coach coming in, that's exactly what you want to be able to do, is to walk into an environment that feels really tight knit, and a team that knows how to win, added Kristen. Kristen brings a proven coaching pedigree to the MI set-up featuring head coach Lisa Keightley, bowling coach and mentor Jhulan Goswami, batting coach Devieka Palshikaar and fielding coach Nicole Bolton. I think as a coach coming in, that's exactly what you want to be able to do, is to walk into an environment that feels really tight knit, and a team that knows how to win, added Kristen. Also Read: Live Cricket Score WPL 2026 will run from January 9 to February 5 and will be played in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. MI, the two-time champions are led by India captain Harmanpreet Kaur, and will open their campaign against Smriti Mandhana-led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Article Source: IANS
Pharma company making illegal psychotropic drugs busted in Rajasthan, three arrested
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has busted a major interstate narcotics racket in Rajasthans Bhiwadi, seizing 22 kg of illegal substances and arresting three key accused, marking the second big drug crackdown in a single month. The trail of the investigation led straight into a pharmaceutical factory hiding a narcotics assembly line in the neighbouring state. What looked like a routine industrial unit in Bhiwadis Rocco Eyal area was, in reality, a covert hub manufacturing banned psychotropic drugs for the black market. The operation began quietly, with a tip-off that the company APL Pharma was illegally producing drugs like Azazolam and feeding the supply chain through a key distributor, Sunny Yadav. The information appeared sensitive and explosive, an ATS officer said, so we cross-verified every detail using technical surveillance and human intelligence before moving in. Under the supervision of senior ATS officials and the leadership of the Deputy Superintendent of Police, a dedicated team meticulously mapped the network. Names emerged, links connected, and patterns repeated, pointing to a well-oiled racket rather than a one-off crime. On December 28, the ATS, along with a special unit of the Rajasthan Police, stormed the APL Pharma premises. Inside, officers found a fully functional illegal manufacturing unit. The seizure was massive and alarming -- 22 kilograms of psychotropic substances, including 5 kg of Alprazolam, 17 kg of a combination of Prozepam and Temazepam known for high abuse potential. Three men were taken into custody at the site -- Anshul Shastri (40) from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Maurya (41) from Takora, Rajasthan, and Krishna Yadav (33), also from Takora. Investigators revealed that Anshul Shastri owned a firm supplying raw materials used to manufacture the illegal drug Azolamide. He allegedly partnered with Akhilesh Maurya to plan and execute large-scale production. This was not experimentation, an officer noted, adding, It was organised manufacturing with clear intent to supply. The drugs were produced at APL Pharma and allegedly sold across various regions, including parts of Maharashtra, through distributors like Sunny Yadav. Money trails, buyer networks, and additional collaborators are now under the scanner, with the ATS convinced that the racket has been operational for a long time. All three accused have been booked under Sections 8 and 22 of the NDPS Act at Vishwa Bhawan Phase-3, UIT Sector-3, Rajasthan. Officials say further arrests are likely as financial records and call data are analysed. Significantly, this is the ATSs second major narcotics bust in December. Earlier this month, a methamphetamine factory in Jodhpur was dismantled, leading to the arrest of six accused and the seizure of 40 kg of drugs and chemicals.
Kangana Ranaut gets furious over her AI-edited pics at Parliament: 'Let me decide how I want to...'
Kangana Ranaut, current MP from Mandi, often impresses with her sartorial choices at Parliament. The actress steps out in sarees, serving fashion with confidence; however, the actress's Parliament closet has come under AI-edit circuit, leaving her agitated. In her latest Instagram stories, the actress has lashed out at the user who shared her AI-edited photo wearing a shirt and tie to Parliament instead of her signature sarees.
Sameera Reddy swears by this banana stem and dal curry recipe for gut health
Sameera Reddy often shares healthy and yummy recipes with her Instagram followers. This time it`s banana stem & dal curry, which, according to her, is highly beneficial for gut health
Special Rolls Observer C Murugan faced an attack and gherao in Magrahat, South 24 Parganas. His vehicle's lock was broken as locals, primarily women, protested. Murugan reported the incident to the Chief Electoral Officer. The protests occurred during the Bengal SIR hearing phase. Similar disruptions were reported in other districts. The hearing process was stalled multiple times.
Gurugram, Noida and Beyond: How NCR's Real Estate Markets Found Their Footing in 2025
After a phase marked by volatility and uneven growth, 2025 emerged as a year of balance for NCRs real estate market. Instead of chasing short-lived peaks, the region experienced a more measured and role-driven performance, with individual markets beginning to capitalize on their inherent strengths. Gurugram and NoidaGreater Noida emerged as NCRs two strongest yet distinctly positioned markets in 2025, each anchoring the regions recovery in different ways. Delhi-NCRs real estate market in 2025 saw balanced growth, led by luxury demand in Gurugram and infrastructure-driven momentum in NoidaGreater Noida H1 2025 data showed Delhi-NCR recording over 5,100 luxury home sales, with Gurugram accounting for the bulk of premium transactions, driven largely by growing preference for lifestyle-led homes. In contrast, NoidaGreater Noida delivered steady, scale-led performance through the year, supported by progress on the Noida International Airport, expanding metro connectivity and the gradual maturation of industrial and IT corridors. Sahil Agrawal, CEO, Nimbus Group , says, As we close 2025, one reality stands out clearly- the environment is no longer a peripheral concern; it is the new luxury. Health and air quality must now sit at the core of urban planning and real estate development. Buyers are increasingly prioritising clean air, green spaces and overall well-being over purely aesthetic features. Looking into 2026, lowering AQI levels will require collective accountability. Developers have a responsibility to build healthier spaces with better ventilation, sustainable materials and increased green cover, while governments and citizens must actively support large-scale tree plantation and greener urban behaviour. If all stakeholders move in the same direction, we can create cities that are not just aspirational, but genuinely healthy and future-ready. Dr. Gautam Kanodia, Founder, KREEVA and Kanodia Group , says, " One of the clearest shifts we noticed in 2025 was how focused luxury buyers became about location within Gurugram. Instead of broad preferences, attention narrowed to specific micro-markets like SPR, New Gurugram, and others. These corridors are benefiting from tangible infrastructure upgrades, better connectivity, and the availability of larger, low-density luxury developments. Buyers and investors are seeking livability factors, access, future value, and community planning. Hence, luxury housing in Gurugram is becoming increasingly corridor-led. Going ahead, demand will continue to concentrate in these micro-markets, offering both lifestyle depth and long-term appreciation. " Umang Jindal, CEO, Homeland Group, says, We see Gurugram benefiting from a rare combination strong luxury housing demand, global connectivity, and visible infrastructure progress across key corridors. Buyer conversations this year were far more mature; families and investors are thinking long-term, evaluating livability, access and community planning rather than just pricing. But the real driver has been sustained wealth creation and employment growth. Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech , says, " The real estate sector in 2025 delivered a strong and sustained performance, with developing corridors leading the growth graph. The luxury segment, particularly in Gurugram, played a pivotal role, supported by evolving lifestyle preferences, higher disposable incomes, and a clear shift towards spacious, well-planned homes. Improved infrastructure has enhanced connectivity, making previously underserved areas more appealing to luxury buyers. NCRs real estate market witnessed an exceptional year in 2025, supported by healthy demand, significant price appreciation and new supply. These factors will continue to benefit the city's real estate market. " Prop Equity data showed a year-on-year rise in residential sales value across leading Tier-II cities in Q1 2025, reflecting sustained end-user and first-time investor participation. Together, these trends positioned Tier-II markets not merely as spillover destinations, but as complementary growth centres contributing meaningfully to NCRs evolving real estate cycle. Sehaj Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, says, As 2025 comes to a close, India's real estate sector reveals a highly growth-oriented market. Not only did metro cities and NCR record a massive demand for luxury residential spaces, but tier 2 cities also rose in prominence. 2026 will add further impetus to these developments, and tier 2 cities, especially ones close to the NCR, will share a significant portion of the growth. We also expect the RBI to maintain its pro-active stance, which will further bring down the interest rates and boost the sector. For investors, real estate, especially in emerging cities, will turn into prized assets. Complementing the residential recovery, commercial and retail real estate emerged as a key validation layer for NCRs growth in 2025. Harinder Singh Hora, Founder Chairman, Reach Group, says, 2025 marked a strong phase of expansion for Indias retail real estate, with Q3 emerging as a key inflection point as gross leasing touched nearly 3.2 million sq. ft. Both high-street and enclosed retail formats performed well, supported by rising demand for organised retail as consumers increasingly gravitate towards structured, experience-led destinations in well-connected urban catchments. The year also saw growing traction for mixed-use developments, where the integration of retail with office, residential, and hospitality components. Overall, retail performance is increasingly being defined by catchment depth, location advantage, visibility, design discipline, and tenant curation rather than format alone. " Pankaj Jain, Founder and Chairman, SPJ Group, says, " 2025 sharpened the industrys focus on where commercial retail demand is forming in Gurugram. Beyond established corridors, retail space demand gained traction in micro-markets where residential catchments have matured, but organized retail supply remains limited. Notably, pockets of Old Gurugramlong driven by dense, self-sustained neighbourhoodsre-emerged as strong consumption hubs as infrastructure upgrades, improved road connectivity, and renewed developer interest unlocked latent demand. These locations showed stronger leasing traction and rental stability because consumption was daily-need and lifestyle-led. The year reaffirmed that well-connected, infrastructure-ready micro-marketsincluding revitalized Old Gurugram zones alongside newer growth beltswill drive Gurugrams next wave of retail real estate expansion. " Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Business Development and Operations, Biigtech, says, In NCR, Noida and Greater Noida had one of their strongest commercial years in 2025. Average office rentals in the city have increased 18% between 2019 and 2025, benefiting from a combination of infrastructure readiness, improved connectivity and sustained demand from IT, data centres and manufacturing-linked occupiers. What stood out was the quality of leasing; occupiers were clear about efficiency, compliance and future scalability. As we move into 2026, NoidaGreater Noida is well-positioned to see steady, disciplined growth rather than a short-term spike. As NCR looks ahead, 2025 stands out as the year the region entered a more mature and clearly segmented phase of its real estate cycle. Together, Gurugram, Noida, and tier 2 markets now operate with sharper roles and clearer demand drivers, reducing volatility and improving depth across the region.
Karnataka is preparing for the next decade of AI-driven growth with two major initiatives: District Skill Groups and the creation of a Karnataka Strategic & Intelligence Unit, a first-of-its-kind AI-powered skills intelligence backbone for the state. This was announced by Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) at the Quest 2 Learn Summit 2025 hosted by Quest Alliance. He was a part of a panel discussion which was focused on the theme Beyond the AI Hype: Building Radical Futures of Hope with Young People. From Right to Left - Madhavi Latha, Faculty, Samagra Shiksha, Andhra, Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO, Karnataka digital Economy Mission, Kaberi MuDuli, Officer, Special Duty Govt. of Odisha The summit saw nearly 300 people including educators, policymakers, technologists, artists, researchers, civil society leaders, innovators, and young people come together to collectively explore the opportunities and future of AI in Education. Speaking during the summit titled, How is the government enabling desired AI futures for young people? , Mr. Gupta Shifted the focus from student centric discussions to millennials, Gen Z, industry leaders, and government stakeholders across different age groups. Each district will soon establish a District Skill Group, chaired by the District Collector and comprising industry, academia, students, and entrepreneurs. These groups will design one-year, district-specific skill development plans based on what the local economy actually needs , he was quoted as saying. Parallelly, the states six regional clusters outside Bengaluru are being strengthened through detailed vision documents, created after multi-stakeholder workshops involving educational institutions, incubators, accelerators, and student communities, outlining what each cluster aims to achieve by 203132. The second major initiative, the Karnataka Strategic & Intelligence Unit, will integrate APIs from universities, colleges, training institutions, and government databases. This unified dataset will be processed by an AI layer to identify emerging opportunities, sectoral gaps, and regional workforce needs. A small committee including industry leaders recently came together with the unit expected to go live in the next three to four months , Gupta added. Gupta noted that these reforms come at a time when Karnataka is witnessing a significant shift in the geography of work. Karnatakas youth are saying, I am not going to move from my place. I will serve from where I am. And companies are now going where the talent is , he said, emphasising how this shift is reshaping corporate hiring strategies and statewide economic planning. This decentralisation is already visible. The Come Back Tiger initiative in Mangalore encouraging tech professionals from the region to return home saw 3 ,000 registrations in under 48 hours, with 250 companies seeking local talent. Cities like Hubli now host more than 3,000 AI professionals serving clients in the US and Europe, demonstrating how innovation is no longer Bengaluru-centric, he stated. Karnataka attracts 200,000 young professionals every year and is home to 600,000 AI-skilled workers, 2,000+ AI startups, and 53 of Indias 110 unicorns, which collectively raised $2 billion last year. If the innovation ecosystem is not strong, companies know they cannot grow , Gupta said. We want to pursue the concept of co-create, collaborate, and co-innovate anyone with an idea can walk in and find mentors across industry and academia . He also highlighted the emergence of new infrastructure enabling this momentum: a world-class AI & Robotics Centre of Excellence and KEO, a personalized AI computer envisioned to place AI compute power in the hands of every learner . The panel also featured D Madhavi Latha, Faculty, SAMO Wing of Samagra Shiksha, Andhra Pradesh , who detailed how the states large-scale Personalised Adaptive Learning (PAL) programme and Atal Tinkering Labs are transforming learning outcomes through adaptive content, and student-led innovation. Kaberi Muduli, OAS, Officer on Special Duty, Panchasakha Sikhya Setu Sangathan, Govt of Odisha outlined how the state has already introduced a 14-chapter AI curriculum in Class 10, alongside classroom tools like Khanmigo, which strengthen critical thinking and support teachers in delivering AI-enabled, local-language learning. The panel was moderated by Manoj Kothari, CEO and Chief Strategist, Turian Labs. Mr Aakash Sethi, The CEO of Quest Alliance , which works with the government education and skilling ecosystems to equip young people with future-ready skills they need to succeed in their careers, said: We undertake new learning and re-skilling in the AI era in Government schools by embedding future skills and career exploration in school curricula and pedagogy. We also work with Technical and Vocational Skilling Institutes, enabling them to prepare confident, informed, and career-ready young graduates, facilitating their transition into the world of work.
Aamir Khans daughter Ira Khan reveals she is struggling with body image issues
Mumbai: Ira Khan, daughter of actor Aamir Khan, has spoken candidly about her personal struggles with body image. Sharing her thoughts openly, she admitted that confronting these feelings feels a little scary. In her recent post on Instagram, Ira shared that she has been going back and forth between feeling unfit, overweight, and obese since 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 .
US physician Dr John Valentine warns that high blood sugar can cause silent damage through subtle symptoms often ignored. In a recent Instagram post, he highlights five key signs: disturbed sleep, constant thirst with frequent urination, strong sugar cravings, unexplained itching and persistent body pain. He explains these result from glucose imbalance affecting nerves, kidneys and circulation, urging early attention to prevent long term metabolic and organ related complications.
Can gold sustain its stellar run in 2026? Here is what Raamdeo Agrawal and 6 other experts say
After a blockbuster 2025 for gold and silver, market experts remain divided on the outlook for 2026. While safe-haven demand may persist, most believe returns could moderate, with volatility and stabilisation emerging as key themes.
Filmmaker Kiran Rao has shared an update on her health after recently undergoing surgery for her 12 mm diameter appendix. Taking to Instagram on Sunday, she also posted a bunch of photos and a video she clicked at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital.
Case registered over Instagram reel showing country bomb explosion in Kannur
Kannur: A case has been registered after a social media account supporting Left parties posted a video purportedly showing the explosion of a country-made bomb here, police said on Monday. Kannur Cyber Police registered the case on Sunday following a report submitted by the Special Branch, Intelligence Wing of the Kerala Police to the Kannur 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 .
Lucky Ali takes break from music, heads to Umrah with family
Mumbai: Iconic singer Lucky Ali, known for timeless hits like O Sanam, Ek Pal Ka Jeena, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum and Kitni Haseen Zindagi Hai Yeh, has taken a brief break from work to embrace spirituality. The singer flew out on Monday morning to perform Umrah. Sharing a picture on Instagram, Lucky Ali wrote, 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 .
Kiran Raos wristband from hospital dash bearing Aamir Khans name raises eyebrows
Mumbai: Filmmaker Kiran Rao was recently admitted to a hospital for an appendix surgery. However, what caught the eye was the name on her wrist band for the hospital and ward access. On Sunday, the filmmaker took to her Instagram, and shared a series of pictures and videos from her treatment at a hospital in 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 .
Kareena Kapoor always has food on her mind & her latest post is proof
Mumbai: Actress Kareena Kapoor always has food on her mind, and her latest social media post confirms the same. Bebo took to the Stories section of her Instagram handle and posted a stunning photo of herself with pouted lips and black sunglasses. However, it was the caption that caught everyones attention. She admitted that just 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 .
Kerala: Case Filed Over Instagram Reel on Country Bomb Explosion
Kannur Cyber Police registered the case on Sunday following a report submitted by the Special Branch, Intelligence Wing of the Kerala Police to the Kannur Commissioner
Case registered over Instagram reel showing country bomb explosion in Keralas Kannur
As per the FIR, a reel was posted on the Instagram account named Red Army Kannur showing visuals of a country bomb explosion
Tara Sutaria shares pictures of her hearts Veer Pahariya, Orry
Mumbai: Actress Tara Sutaria gave fans a glimpse into a cosy night out as she shared pictures featuring her beau Veer Pahariya and B-Towns bestie Orry. The actress took to Instagram, where she re-shared a candid selfie collage, clicked in an intimate party setting, originally posted by Orry. In the first selfie, Orry is seen 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 .
A shocking incident unfolded near Tiruttani where a group of juveniles brutally attacked a 20-year-old Odia youth with sickles, filming the assault for social media. The victim, K Suraj, sustained severe injuries. Police apprehended the attackers, who were found drinking at a temple, and have registered a case of attempt to murder.
Four juveniles apprehended in Chennai for attacking Odisha youth with sickle
CHENNAI: The Tiruttani Town police on Sunday apprehended four 17-year-old boys for allegedly attacking a 20-year-old youth from Odisha with sickles near the Old Railway Quarters. Police said the attack, following a drunken argument that broke out on a suburban train, was filmed by one of the juveniles for an Instagram reel. The victim was identified as K Suraj. Inquiries revealed that Suraj had recently come to Chennai following a domestic dispute and was not a regular migrant worker. The incident took place on Saturday when Suraj was travelling in the general compartment of a Chennai-Tiruttani EMU local. When the train reached Tiruvalangadu, the four juveniles boarded the same compartment. The minors, who were allegedly in an intoxicated state, were carrying two sickles concealed in their bags to film Instagram reels. One of the juveniles started a conversation with Suraj in Hindi. A quarrel erupted between the group and Suraj, which continued until the train reached Tiruttani, a senior police officer said. The group then allegedly took Suraj to the abandoned Old Railway Quarters nearby. While three of the juveniles attacked Suraj with sickles, the fourth boy recorded the violent act on his phone. The victim suffered severe cut injuries to his head, hands, and cheeks. Leaving him bleeding, the gang fled, police said. Suraj, who had blacked out, later regained consciousness and walked to the main road, where passersby noticed him. He was admitted to the Tiruttani GH and later referred to the Tiruvallur MCH. His condition is stable. Based on a tip-off and the reel uploaded by the group, police traced the minors. They were produced before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to the Observation Home in Purasaiwalkam. Man beats son to death over argument, held Chennai: A 28-year-old food delivery worker in Chengalpattu was killed allegedly by his father with an iron rod during an argument at their house on Saturday night. The deceased was identified as Wesley. According to the Chengalpattu Taluk police, a marriage proposal for Wesley was abruptly called off by the brides family recently. Following this, he allegedly turned to alcohol and frequently quarelled with his parents. On Saturday night, he was drunk and arguing with his father, Jansen (53), a driver. As it escalated, Jansen allegedly struck an iron rod on Wesleys head, killing him on the spot. Upon receiving information, the police sent the body to a government hospital for post-mortem examination. Jansen was booked for murder under BNS Section 101, and arrested.
World taking note of India due to yuva shakti: Modi
NEW DELHI: In this years last episode of Maan Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said 2025 was a year of achievements that made every Indian proud as he highlighted Operation Sindoor, saying it showed the world that the country does not compromise on its security. The year 2025 gave us many moments that made every Indian proud. From national security to the sports field, from science laboratories to the worlds biggest platforms, India left a strong mark everywhere, he said. The Prime Minister said, during Operation Sindoor, images of love and devotion toward Mother India emerged from every corner of the nation and people expressed their emotions and gratitude in their unique ways. Operation Sindoor became a symbol of pride for every Indian. The world witnessed clearly that todays India does not compromise on its security, he said. Today, the world is looking at India with great expectations. The biggest reason for this hope is our youth. In the field of science, our achievements, innovations, and technological advancements have impressed countries around the world, the PM said. He added that Indias youth have always been driven by a passion for innovation, while remaining connected with Indias culture and roots. The PM described 2025 as a landmark year In the fields of science and space, highlighting Shubhanshu Shuklas achievement as the first Indian to reach the International Space Station. Modi noted that 2025 has truly been a memorable year for sports, with the mens cricket team clinching the ICC Champions Trophy and the womens cricket team winning the World Cup for the first time. Besides, Indias daughters scripted history by winning the Womens Blind T20 World Cup. He said that in 2025, faith, culture, and Indias unique heritage came together. The Prayagraj Mahakumbh organised at the beginning of the year astonished the entire world. At the end of the year, the Dhwajarohan ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya filled every Indian with pride, he said. The PM said the excitement towards swadeshi was also evident among one and all and people are purchasing only those goods that bear the sweat of an Indian and the fragrance of Indian soil. Now, the country is ready to move forward in 2026 with new hopes and new resolutions, he added. Memorable year for sports and vocal for local Modi noted that 2025 has truly been a memorable year for sports, with the mens cricket team clinching the ICC Champions Trophy and the womens cricket team winning the World Cup for the first time. Besides, Indias daughters scripted history by winning the Womens Blind T20 World Cup. He said the excitement towards swadeshi was also evident among one and all and people are purchasing only those goods that bear the sweat of an Indian and the fragrance of Indian soil.
The viral trends that surfaced the internet in 2025
Rajini and Punchlines Seventy-five and yet Thalaivar never thought twice to surprise us. He showed us even a single line of his can set the Internet on fire. His unfiltered, almost offhand dialogues Vazhthukal vazhthukal, Oh my god, epo?, Enathu Nagarajuna va? and the much-memed Rajasekar saagum pothu Dhayalu kaadhula ennavo sonnaney enna sonnaannu yaarukaavathu theriyuma? escaped cinema halls and took over reels, comments, and everyday conversations. What made them click wasnt punchy bravado, but their raw, conversational unpredictability. Fans looped them, trolls twisted them, creators repurposed them endlessly. In a year crowded with scripted virality, Rajini reminded everyone that spontaneity still rules. APT.d our way The year opened exactly how social media liked it on beat. APT . reels, which began trending in late 2024, rolled seamlessly into 2025 as the Internets favourite opener. One step, one pause, one perfectly timed beat drop. The charm lay in its simplicity: minimal moves, maximum mood. Chennaiites leaned into it hard, using the reel as a cinematic curtain-raiser for the year ahead. Equal parts confident and playful. Consider 2025 officially checked in, one beat at a time, courtesy of BLACKPINK and Bruno Mars. Girls before Bros Girl friendships finally took centre stage messy, loyal, loud, and life-saving. Tamil pop culture mirrored this shift, giving us bonds that felt lived-in rather than idealised. Selvi and Ramya from Bad Girl showed friendship as survival, while Bhooma and Durga in The Girlfriend captured quiet companionship amid chaos. These werent side plots to romance but were the emotional spine. On social media too, women celebrated sisterhood through girl dates, reels, and shared routines. In a year that prized connection, Chennai embraced a simple truth sometimes, the deepest love story is between two women who choose each other, every day. One Track; many Compositions With a sound that dominated reels and playlists, Sai Abhyankar became a name to reckon with. But the buzz peaked, and cracked, with Dude , where one song, Oorum Blood , appeared in multiple versions across the film and OST. Fifteen tracks, one core tune, endless discourse. Fans called it experimentation; critics cried excess. Social media had opinions, memes followed. Love him or roast him, Sai stayed unavoidable. Repetition wasnt seen as a flaw. In fact, the re-release of Padayappa , generated reels of the Superstar walking to Dude' s background music. Let the universe conspire Manifestation is the idea of attracting whatever one desires be it love, money, freedom, or peace using ones mind and positive affirmations. Gen Z and millennials alike have been actively putting out their positive intentions into the universe. Manifestation, considered a form of spiritualism, is a nudge to replace negative thoughts with positive ones, backed by the belief that energetic mindfulness influences the universe. Husky dance, anyone? Husky Dance is a viral Instagram trend triggered by Vaikom native D Arjun. It features a looping video of a Husky dog animated to dance to popular Indian film songs. Arjun discovered the clip from older TikTok-style animal videos and began posting one video a day on his page Husky Dance Daily. The trend exploded after a Husky danced to the Tamil song Ichu Ichu , crossing millions of views overnight. Celebrities joined in, meme pages picked it up, and the trend went global. Whats up, Matcha? Originally a Japanese green tea, matcha is now widely seen in cafes, home routines, and reels. People share videos of making iced matcha, matcha lattes, or visiting matcha cafs, often linking it to wellness, calm mornings, and a slower lifestyle. More than just a drink, matcha has become a familiar aesthetic and mood on social media. Nadippu Arakan Dr Diwakars social media persona burst out of reels and into prime-time television. Dubbed the Watermelon Star for his viral content and crowned Nadippu Arakan by the internet, he became a familiar face across Tamil timelines loved, mocked, and endlessly mimicked. His exaggerated parody performances and humour made him meme material, while his entry into Bigg Boss Tamil cemented his crossover from online virality to mainstream visibility. Tralaleo Tralala... Italian Brainrot is a surreal meme trend that took over social media in 2025. It features absurd, AI generated characters with exaggerated Italian sounding names with a monotone and artificial male voiceover. Visuals of odd-looking characters such as Tralaleo Tralala, Bombardilo Crocodilo and Tung Tung Tung Sahur are paired with nonsensical storylines and looping audio, including phonk music. The humour lies in embracing the brain rot of it all, the internet slang for content so overstimulating and illogical that it feels mentally numbing. Aura farming Aura farming is a Gen Alpha internet trend centred on projecting nonchalant cool. The term gained traction in 2025 after a video of 11-year-old Indonesian boy named Rayyan dancing casually on the bow of a Pacu Jalur boat went viral. His quiet swagger created major buzz online, coming to represent the idea of personal aura. The trend was propelled by Melly Mikes track Young, Black & Rich that was used as BGM for the clip that spawned memes, reels and imitations. AI all the way By mid-2025, social media looked less like real life and more like a gentle daydream. AI image generators transformed everything from Ghibli-inspired landscapes and wide-eyed avatars to baby-self meeting present-self edits, celebrity reimaginings, and everyday Chennai moments softened into fantasy. The appeal was emotional as much as visual, offering escape, comfort, and curiosity in equal measure. Brands leaned in, creators experimented, and timelines blurred between memory and imagination. Yet alongside the wonder came quiet questions about originality and ownership. In a year shaped by algorithms, this trend showed how far AI could stretch not just images, but emotion too. Yengaaa What began as a single viral cry of Yengaaa quickly turned Koomapatti into 2025s most unexpected social media pilgrimage. Reels romanticised the village as a quiet, cinematic escape, prompting curious Chennaiites and travellers to actually show up, phones in hand. The twist? The original video that sparked the trend was reportedly shot at a closed dam area (Pilavakkal dam) and the scenery drier than depicted in the reels, a detail that surfaced only after the hype peaked. Still, that didnt stop the momentum. Memes multiplied, road trips followed, and reality collided with reels. Vazhthukal Pandiyammal sister A scooty, a sudden fall, and an accidental catchphrase thats all it took for Pandiyammal to become most unexpected internet icon. The viral video of her riding, slipping, and still being wished Vazhthukal turned into a reel format that Chennai creators ran with relentlessly. From sarcastic life updates to dramatic failures played for laughs, the trend became shorthand for optimism in chaos. What made it stick was its rawness no filters, no scripting, just real-life comedy. Ena Baby, Enga Poringa? If the year had a mascot on Tamil social media, it was anything unrealistic created by AI. Spreading baby fever across social media was these AI-generated baby videos, almost always opening with the now-iconic Ena baby enga poringa?, took over feeds with their sarcastic, oddly relatable replies. From dodging responsibilities to commenting on adult struggles, the baby said what everyone was thinking but cuter and sharper. The humour lay in contrast: an innocent face delivering peak sarcasm in flawless Tamil slang. Detour from Odisha A tune from Odisha took an unexpected Tamil detour. The Chi Chi Chi trend, adapted from the folk-flavoured Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani, flooded Reels and Shorts with Tamil lyrics layered over comedy and emotional skits. Chennai creators embraced the format, using it to poke fun at everyday frustrations and over-the-top emotions. The songs catchy rhythm did the heavy lifting, while the Tamil adaptation made it instantly local. King Akshaye X Flipperachi Akshaye Khanna has taken the 2025 crown with his effortless swag as he grooved to Bahraini rapper Flipperachis Fa9la track in the film Dhurandhar . His entry scene from the film took social media by storm. Numerous shorts comparing his aura to his father Vinod Khannas vintage charm are also doing the rounds now. Many say the Akshaye-Flipperachi vibe lured them to the theatres.
Alia Bhatt flaunts new style obsession with bows
Actress Alia Bhatt recently shared her new style obsession with bows on social media, showcasing her love for the accessory in a series of glamorous Instagram photos. In the posts, Alia is seen wearing bows in her hair in a variety of chic, fashionable looks, striking different poses for the camera. Captioning the images, she []
Four Minor Students Arrested In Tamil Nadu For Attacking North Indian Youth In Train
Four 17-year-old students attacked a man from Nagpur with a machete near Tiruttani station. They filmed the assault for Instagram Reels.
Kriti Kharbanda flags WhatsApp impersonator
Kriti Kharbanda has alerted fans and followers about a case of identity theft after discovering that an unknown individual has been impersonating her on WhatsApp. The actor took to Instagram to share details of the incident and urged people to remain cautious.
PM Modi lauds Op Sindoor, Mahakumbh, Ram temple completion, Indian in space in 2025
In his final Mann ki Baat of 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Indias key achievements over the year, including Operation Sindoor by the Air Force, the Ram temple flag installation, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, and Indias growing global presence in science, sports, and culture.
Zack Snyder drops Henry Cavill`s photos wearing the original superman suit
Taking to his Instagram handle, Zack Snyder shared a couple of pictures of Henry Cavill in a Superman suit. The first image shows a besuited Cavill, in what looks like a test photo, looking into the distance on a concrete pad with a blazing blue sky behind him
US based cardiologist Dr Dmitry Yaranov has warned that heart disease often presents through subtle, easily ignored symptoms rather than classic chest pain. In a widely shared Instagram post, he highlighted unusual warning signs such as jaw pain, leg swelling, breathlessness while lying down, nausea with cold sweats and erectile dysfunction. These signals, he stressed, may indicate serious cardiac issues and require early attention to prevent life threatening outcomes.
Kriti Kharbanda falls victim to identity theft, exposes imposter
Days after Rakul Preet Singh exposed an imposter using her identity to message people, Kriti Kharbanda recently revealed that she faced a similar ordeal. She took to Instagram to share a screenshot of a WhatsApp chat, wherein the user used her identity to talk to people
Kiran Rao shares health update after appendix surgery
Filmmaker Kiran Rao and Aamir Khans ex-wife has reassured fans after undergoing appendix surgery, revealing that a sudden health scare changed her plans as she geared up to welcome 2026. Sharing pictures from the hospital on Instagram, Kiran reflected on the experience with humour and gratitude.
US based cardiologist Dr Jeremy London has shared three simple, sustainable eating principles you can make part of your healthy New Year reset. In an Instagram post, he advised focusing on real foods and hydration, prioritising protein and fibre to support ageing muscles and gut health, and understanding calories in versus calories out. Emphasising consistency over perfection, Dr London urged people to adopt nutrition plans that support long term heart health and longevity.
A Delhi RML Hospital surgeon has warned that a common food parents consider healthy may raise fatty liver risk in children. In an Instagram awareness post, Dr Obaidur Rahman flagged packaged fruit juices and cream biscuits as key contributors due to high sugar and fructose content. He noted rising cases of fatty liver even among toddlers and urged parents to prioritise whole fruits and nutritious, protein rich diets over processed foods.
Indian expats lifestyle post comparing India, Canada sparks online debate
An Instagram post comparing the quality of life in India and Canada has the internet talking. The video was posted by an Indian expat, Vishal, who pointed out clean fresh air and the sounds of birds chirping versus to the intense air pollution and constant honking in major Indian cities. Life of a middle-class family 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 .
Dense fog, cold wave and hazardous smog grip north India
North India woke up to a chilly Sunday, with dense fog and cold wave conditions affecting daily life across the region. In the national capital, temperatures dropped to 9C, while thick smog reduced visibility, prompting health advisories for residents. Despite the weather, services at Indira Gandhi International Airport remained unaffected as of 8 pm, according to a travel advisory. Other cities, including Karnal (Haryana) and Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh), recorded similar conditions with temperatures hovering around 9C. IMD issued an orange alert for Moradabad. Agras Taj Mahal was obscured by dense fog, while Kanpur residents huddled around bonfires to keep warm. In Guwahati, Assam, the minimum temperature fell to 15C under foggy, cold-wave conditions. The air quality in Delhi worsened, with the AQI reaching 391, entering the severe category, and some localities crossing 400. Anand Vihar recorded 445, Patparganj 425, Nehru Nagar 433, Shadipur 445, Mundka 413, and IGI Airport 320. The combination of cold weather, calm winds, and fog trapped pollutants, resulting in dense haze and smog across the city. Authorities have invoked Stage IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan, including restrictions on construction and industrial activity, while enforcing the No PUC, No Fuel rule. In response, the Delhi Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved a series of measures to improve environmental governance. Rs 100 crore will be allocated to rejuvenate 160 government-managed water bodies out of the 1,000 in the capital, aimed at pollution control. The government also approved the creation of Delhis first E-Waste Park at Holambi Kalan, spanning 11.5 acres, to operate on a 100% circular, zero-waste model. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated, Rejuvenation of Delhis water bodies will play a crucial role in controlling pollution. The Chief Minister has directed that every possible support be provided to complete the work within the year. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, a thin layer of smog covered areas like Bandra Kurla Complex, with AQI recorded at 123 (moderate), highlighting that pollution continues to affect multiple urban centres across India. (With inputs from ANI)
Six arrested for fake Instagram honeytrap, assault and extortion in Thiruvananthapuram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Aryancode police have arrested six persons for allegedly creating a fake Instagram profile using a young womans photographs to cheat and extort money from a man, and for brutally assaulting him when he came to meet them. The arrested are Nidhin, 24, his brother Nidheesh, 25, Sreejith alias Sreekuttan, 24, Akhil alias Sachu, 26, and two Plus-II students. According to the police, the gang targeted Mahesh Mohanan, 40, a native of Kunnathoor in Kollam, by creating a fake Instagram account and chatting with him regularly. After gaining his confidence, they allegedly told him that the woman was alone at her house and asked him to come to Aryancode on December 22. When Mahesh reached the spot, the accused allegedly detained him and assaulted him. His hand was fractured and he suffered stab injuries. The gang also allegedly snatched his mobile phone and ATM card, obtained the PIN, and withdrew Rs 21,500 from his bank account. The accused further demanded Rs 2 lakh as ransom and threatened to falsely implicate him in a Pocso case if he failed to pay Rs 1 lakh immediately, the police said. Realising that Mahesh did not have more money, the gang allegedly abandoned him at Neyyattinkara and fled. Injured and disoriented, he managed to reach Parassala, where he approached the local police station. He was later shifted to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Based on information received from the Parassala police, a team led by Aryancode SHO Thanseem Abdul Samad traced and arrested the accused. The police said Nidhin and Nidheesh are involved in several criminal cases registered at Neyyattinkara, Marayamuttom, Parassala and Kattakkada police stations. All the accused have been remanded in judicial custody. Withdrew Rs 21,500 from victims bank account When Mahesh reached the spot, the accused allegedly detained him and assaulted him. His hand was fractured and he suffered stab injuries. The gang also allegedly snatched his mobile phone and ATM card, obtained the PIN, and withdrew Rs 21,500 from his bank account.
Top medical advice from doctors that went viral in 2025
In recent years, social media has become something more than a space for entertainment or connections. It has now become a platform which is being used to promote information and awareness. Medical experts including doctors, nutritionists, fitness trainers and other health practitioners use social media platforms such as Instagram, Youtube and X to spread awareness and give advice and guidance. Here are some of the most popular and influential medical advice that went viral in the year 2025. Earlier it was believed that to keep heart health in check, walking 10k steps was a non-negotiable. This year, the hyped benchmark of walking 10,000 steps was widely challenged by many health experts. In fact, in the middle of the year, a study published in The Lancet found that those who walked around 7000 daily steps had a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
52-Year-Old Woman Earns First Income Through YouTube, Video Goes Viral
A viral Instagram video shows a 52-year-old woman celebrating her first income earned through YouTube, inspiring social media users with a powerful message that age is no barrier to success.
Cold wave, dense fog grip north and east India
Large parts of north and eastern India continued to reel under intense cold and dense fog on Saturday, disrupting normal life and prompting weather warnings across several states. Sub-zero temperatures were recorded in Kashmir, while parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Jharkhand and West Bengal reported cold day or cold wave conditions, according to the India Meteorological Department. In Uttar Pradesh, dense to very dense fog prevailed across many districts, with daytime temperatures remaining well below normal. Gorakhpur recorded a maximum of 13.2 degrees Celsius, 7.4 degrees below average, while Prayagraj saw a high of 16.8 degrees Celsius, down by over six degrees. Varanasi, Bareilly, Etawah, Bahraich and Barabanki also reported daytime temperatures four to six degrees below normal. Minimum temperatures in the state ranged between 6 and 11 degrees Celsius, with Etawah recording a low of 6.2 degrees. In Lucknow, the maximum temperature stood at 18 degrees Celsius, while high humidity levels contributed to gloomy conditions. The weather department forecast dense fog during late night and morning hours, with dry weather likely to continue. Rajasthan also witnessed cold and dry conditions, with fog reported at isolated places in the Udaipur and Kota divisions. Karauli was the coldest location in the state, recording a minimum temperature of 3.1 degrees Celsius. Jaipur registered a low of 9.6 degrees, while Barmer recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 29 degrees Celsius. The weather is expected to remain cold and dry in the coming days. Punjab and Haryana remained in the grip of intense cold, with dense fog enveloping several areas. In Punjab, Ballowal Saunkhri in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district was the coldest at 4.4 degrees Celsius. Gurugram recorded the lowest temperature in Haryana at 4.9 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh recorded a minimum temperature of 6.9 degrees Celsius. Dense fog also covered the national capital on Saturday morning, while air quality remained in the very poor category. The overall Air Quality Index stood at 355 at 9 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius, with foggy conditions likely to persist through the day. Cold weather conditions prevailed across West Bengal as well, with Darjeeling emerging as the coldest place in the state at 5.8 degrees Celsius. In the plains, Alipurduar recorded a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius. Shallow to moderate fog is likely to continue over parts of the state over the next few days, the IMD said. In Jammu and Kashmir, night temperatures dipped below freezing at most places due to clear skies. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 2.6 degrees Celsius, while Sonamarg was the coldest place in the Union Territory at minus 5.8 degrees. The weather office has forecast generally dry conditions till December 29, with the possibility of rain and snowfall around New Years Eve. Jharkhand also witnessed cold wave conditions, with the mercury dropping below 10 degrees Celsius in several districts. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature at 3.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in six districts, warning that the cold spell is likely to persist till Sunday morning. Amid the severe cold, at least four members of a family, including three children, died of suffocation in Bihars Saran district after a fire was lit in a closed room to keep warm. Two others were found unconscious and were admitted to hospital. Police said the incident occurred early Saturday morning in the Bhagwan Bazar area. A forensic investigation has been initiated, and the case is being probed from all angles. (With inputs from PTI)
Karoline Leavitt pregnant with baby no. 2 set to make history as first expecting press secretary
Karoline Leavitt pregnancy: White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt is expecting her second child. The baby girl is due in May 2026. Leavitt shared the news on Instagram, calling it the greatest Christmas gift. She and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, are already parents to an 18-month-old son. Leavitt plans to continue her role as press secretary during her pregnancy.
Beyond food: 5 Hyderabad restaurants that are winning on Instagram
Hyderabads restaurants are no longer chasing influencers. Instead, many are becoming influencers themselves. In recent times, the city has witnessed a shift in how restaurants approach social media, especially Instagram. Now, rather than seeing generic promotional content, viewers are being treated to advertising wrapped in short films, humour-driven skits, and cinematic food shots. Interestingly, while 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 .
Case against undertrial for creating ruckus at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison
The accused, according to officials, was a habitual offenders involved in creating problems in the prison and instigating other inmates against the prison staff
The Menopause Symptoms No One Talks About And How To Manage Them
Nutritionist Lovneet Batra has dropped a post on Instagram to address some lesser-talked-about menopause symptoms
US-based cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Jeremy London says waking up early can serve as a quiet reset for people stuck in monotonous work routines. In an Instagram post, he explains that early mornings restore personal agency, discipline and momentum by allowing individuals to plan their day intentionally. He adds that the stillness before sunrise encourages clear thinking, better habits and sustained focus, helping restore clarity, consistency and purpose over time.
Total Magic': Harmanpreet Kaur After Deepti Achieves Historic Feat In World Cricket
Greenfield International Stadium: Indias star all-rounder Deepti Sharma made history in global cricket by becoming the first player in the world, across mens and womens T20I cricket, to score 1000 runs and take 150 wickets, and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was all praise as she called the accomplishment total magic. Deepti achieved the feat during the third T20I against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, highlighting her stature as one of the most versatile white-ball cricketers in the sport. Sharing a graphic of the all-rounder on her Instagram story, Harmanpreet wrote, This is total magic. Well done Deepti. With a decisive three-wicket spell, Deepti became the joint-highest wicket-taker in womens T20I history, tying with Australias Megan Schutt at 151 wickets. Sri Lankas Kavisha Dilhari reached her landmark 150th scalp as the 28-year-old dismissed the Lankan batter in the 14th over. India sealed an unassailable 30 series lead with a dominant eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium. Shafali Verma starred with an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes to chase down Lankas modest total with 6.4 overs to spare. Earlier, Indias bowlers set up the victory as Renuka Singh Thakur (4/21) and Deepti (3/18) restricted the visitors to 112/7. India lost Smriti Mandhana early for one and later Jemimah Rodrigues, both dismissed by Dilhari, but Shafali remained unfazed. After a cautious start, she launched a fierce assault on the Sri Lankan attack, reaching her fifty in just 24 balls. Captain Harmanpreet added a steady 21 not out as India completed another convincing victory and their fourth straight T20I series win over Sri Lanka. India sealed an unassailable 30 series lead with a dominant eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium. Shafali Verma starred with an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes to chase down Lankas modest total with 6.4 overs to spare. Earlier, Indias bowlers set up the victory as Renuka Singh Thakur (4/21) and Deepti (3/18) restricted the visitors to 112/7. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also made a significant impact in the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction, where UP Warriorz (UPW) acquired her for Rs 3.2 crore, the second-highest bid in league history. Article Source: IANS
Agra zone polices Op Jagriti helping empower women
1. Shaadi, but make it pretend From fake weddings and sangeets to mock divorces and just-because proms, Chennaiites joined a nationwide trend in which commitment nor the bride/groom wasnt required. These ticketed events offered the thrill of dressing up, dancing to dhol beats, and playing the wedding guest without the emotional or financial baggage. Living in a burnt-out and rising costs era, fake events became real escapes, providing spaces to socialise, flirt, and celebrate community without consequence. In a city where weddings are otherwise grand, emotional affairs, the irony was delicious: guests showed up in silk and sequins, fully aware that nothing here was permanent, except the Instagram reel. 2. Labubu's detour to Chennai Wide-eyed, mischievous, and creepy yet oddly comforting, Labubu quietly invaded Chennai this year dangling from handbags, peeking out of desks, and starring in a pile of soft toys. What began as a collectable obsession soon became emotional currency, especially among Gen Z. In a city balancing tradition and trend, Labubu irrespective of being original or a first copy was everywhere, from comic stores to pop-up flea markets. The character found a home amongst those who saw themselves in its expressive chaos. Eerie? Yes. Cute? Maybe. 3. Dating hits the fast lane Swipe fatigue was real, and organisers answered with stopwatches. Speed dating nights and singles mixers popped up across cafs, rooftops, and community spaces, offering connection with a deadline. They got as creative as they could with activities. Five minutes, one conversation, and a bell awkward silences included. For a city, traditionally shy about public romance, these events marked a cultural shift: dating without apps, introductions without relatives/friends. Some came looking for sparks, others just to experience, but everyone left with at least one anecdote. In 2025, Chennai decided that if traffic could be endured daily, a few minutes of romantic risk wasnt too much to ask either. 4. Rave & shine Who said raves need midnight? Chennai flipped the clock with early-morning coffee raves, mall raves and run raves that mixed cardio with community. Headphones replaced hangovers, and filter coffee replaced cocktails. From beachside stretches to caf courtyards, music became a wake-up call rather than an afterthought. These raves werent about excess; they were about energy, intention, and starting the day on a high note. Where mornings are synonymous with temple bells to jogging the rave simply adapted. Chennai didnt stop partying; it just woke up earlier. 5. Two sides of the same coin Half-up, half-down, sleek-meets-soft the 2-in-1 Korean hairstyle quietly conquered salons. Perfect for long days that move from lectures to late coffee plans, the style offered versatility without effort. Influenced by K-dramas but adapted to humidity and hustle, it struck a balance Chennaiites love: polished yet practical. Hair became modular, work-ready by day, date-ready by evening.While the weather is unforgiving and time even more so, this hairstyle wasnt just aesthetic. It was survival chic. 6. Public transport gets a glow-up When double-decker buses rolled out on the roads, they brought more than extra seating they brought nostalgia. Commuters craned necks, phones came out, and suddenly, public transport felt aspirational. The trial run sparked conversations about urban mobility, sustainability, and whether the city was finally thinking big. For the younger generation, it was a novelty; for Chennai-vaasis, it was a literal trip down memory lane. In 2025, Chennai began reimagining its commute, not just as a necessity, but as an experience. The view from the top deck? A reminder that progress sometimes comes with a better vantage point. 7. Char(m)ismatic From Crocs dotted with shoe charms to bags jingling with trinkets and phones dressed in beads, people embraced maximalism. These werent just accessories; they were identifiers. A mini plush here, a lucky symbol there each piece told a story. In a city that loves personalisation, charms became shorthand for mood, fandom, and identity. Flea markets and Instagram stores thrived, proving that small details still make loud statements. In 2025, Chennaiites didnt just accessorise; they curated. 8. Bindis go with everything This year, individuals stopped choosing between modern and traditional; they wore both. Bindis with jeans, jhumkas with t-shirts, oxidised jewellery with blazers. Cultural markers became everyday statements, not just festive wear. This wasnt adapting to the large crowd; it was confidence to wear their own heritage. The citys youth embraced roots unapologetically, proving identity doesnt have to be compartmentalised. What once felt ethnic or Indo-Western became effortless. Chennai showed that tradition isnt restrictive its flexible, expressive, and very much in fashion. 9. Bead there, done that Beaded accessories took over wrists and necklines, with stacking becoming a must. With or without charms, monochrome or dazzling colours no two combinations looked the same. Though worn by all, personalisation made them feel handmade, intimate, and personal, taking us back to the era of quilling and scoby-wired accessories. This time, people's love for craft met contemporary styling, and the result was playful self-expression. Each bead carried mood, memory, and meaning. In a year obsessed with individuality, beaded accessories proved that sometimes, the simplest materials tell the richest stories. 10. Date Night The Homegirl Edition: Women began romanticising friendship with the same enthusiasm once reserved for their partners. Enter the girl date planned caf hops, sunset walks, movie nights, pottery sessions, or even get a piercing. Equal parts self-care and solidarity, these outings celebrated platonic intimacy in a city where womens time is often accounted for by work or family. Girl dates werent about dressing up for anyone else, but about showing up fully for each other. In between deadlines and daily chaos, these moments became intentional pauses, echoing what Rachel Green once said with quiet certainty, I have got my girls.
In a first, standards for incense sticks notified
India has introduced quality standards for incense sticks, prohibiting harmful insecticidal chemicals and synthetic fragrance intermediates. These new norms, aimed at improving safety and sustainability, classify agarbattis and set requirements for raw materials and burning quality. The voluntary standard, IS 19412:2025, seeks to protect public health and the environment from potentially hazardous substances.
Nicki Minaj deactivates instagram after Turning Point USA appearance
Nicki Minaj has deactivated her Instagram account days after making an unexpected presence at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona. The rapper joined Erika Kirk onstage and shared her perspectives on leadership and politics, resulting in mixed responses online. After the event, fans noticed her Instagram account had gone offline, fueling speculations about backlash and follower loss.
If streaming services year-in-review campaigns have shown us anything, its that weve spent a staggering amount of time drowning out the hum of everyday life with music, podcasts and audio series. And with some incredible new releases this year, we were really eatin good. Here are some of the Engadget teams favorite things we listened to in 2025. Spiritbox - Tsunami Sea I became aware of Spiritbox in late 2024 shortly before the band dropped its latest album, Tsunami Sea. At the time, I was in a deep Sleep Token phase, and I dont remember how I stumbled upon Spiritbox, but Im sure glad I did. Not knowing anything about the band, I initially thought it had two singers: one for clean vocals and another for the harsh, guttural screams. Well, I was wrong. Vocalist Courtney LaPlante handles it all, and she is a force of nature. After learning of a new band, I do what any self-respecting music nerd does: I looked up live videos of them on YouTube. The way LaPlante seamlessly transitions from airy, ambient singing to some of the best growls youll hear in metal music is effortless. And after seeing Spiritbox live in person earlier in December, I can attest to her ability to consistently nail both vocal styles for the entirety of an hour-long set. My infatuation with Spiritbox isnt just with the vocalist though. Guitarist Mike Stringer, LaPlantes husband, also has a lot of unique abilities to offer. Stringers use of noise and whammy effects in his riffs create a signature style, not to mention his mix of nu-metal, djent and metalcore sensibilities. He also has some of the thickest guitar tones Ive ever heard live, and I was mesmerized for the full set. Stringers guitar work on Tsunami Sea is a prime example of a unique musician at the height of his powers. Tsunami Sea takes you on a ride. The first two tracks are all-out ragers, and after a slight respite in Perfect Soul and Keep Sweet, the albums best song comes fifth. Ive heard LaPlante dedicate it to all the people I love to fucking hate, and its clearly written about her enemies. Its also the perfect example of what this band is capable of. Its three minutes of LaPlantes screams interlaced with plenty of Stringers trademark guitar work. The rest of the album showcases the bands ability to blend dynamics, with No Loss, No Love and Ride The Wave providing the highlights on the back half of the record. The albums title track is a great vehicle for LaPlantes clean vocals, serving as the introduction to the albums second act. If youve been enamored with Sleep Token this year like I have, give Spiritbox a go you wont be sorry you did. Billy Steele, Deputy Editor, Reviews Bandsplain I didnt discover Bandsplain in 2025, but I definitely listened to it more than any other podcast in terms of total time spent. Sure, thats because most episodes are over three hours long, but I digress. Host Yasi Salek does a deep dive on cult bands and iconic artists to ahem, bandsplain why people love them. Theres a deep catalog of back episodes, so theres sure to be an in-depth analysis of a band youre familiar with. But even if you think you know an artist, Im willing to bet Salek will divulge parts of the story you werent aware of. Jimmy Eat Worlds Clarity is a top 5 all-timer for me, and Salek had plenty to offer about the narrative around that album I didnt know. Her grunge series from 2024 was a history lesson I wish Id had in middle school when I first discovered Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains and the rest of the lot. An older episode about Nine Inch Nails served as the primer for me seeing the band live for the first time in September. And thats the thing about the show: the back catalog holds up. If youre waiting for the next installment to drop, theres certainly something in the archives youll enjoy. No shade to Saleks colleagues at The Ringer, but the best episodes of Bandsplain are when the guest is a musician. Thursday front man Geoff Rickly was excellent on that Nine Inch Nails episode, and Death Cab for Cutie singer Ben Gibbard had me on the edge of my seat when he was on to discuss The Las a band Id never heard of before. Id also highly recommend the episodes on Oasis and the more recent one on Alanis Morissette. But, really, you cant go wrong starting from anywhere on the episode list. B.S. Lucy Dacus - Forever is a Feeling I remember being a teenager and hearing from an adult that they did not religiously seek out, research, evaluate and introduce new bands and songs into their lives as if all existence would cease without the life-sustaining energy of new music. I was confused, concerned and damn sure that wouldnt happen to me. You know where this story goes: Job. Kid. House. Spouse. Pets that will die if I dont feed, walk, play with and/or medicate them. I allow the algorithm to feed me new songs but rarely does something stick, so I end up listening to tracks I bonded with in my teens and twenties. This year, Blossom & Bones , a three-day music festival in Ghost Ranch, New Mexico, managed to push through the churn and lodge new music into my brain. Along with my kid and some friends, I camped among some of the most beautiful landscapes imaginable and ambled over to the stage each evening for performances by Santigold, Ani DiFranco and about a dozen more. Lucy Dacus, one third of the indie group Boygenius, did a one-hour set with plenty of songs from her latest album Forever is a Feeling . Hearing the songs for the first time, I felt like Id been listening to them for years. Lilting harmonies and layered strings create a lovely backdrop for Dacuss velvet voice, but theres a sharpness to her observations about relationships, rejection and sex. Ive been looping the album ever since. Amy Skorheim, Senior Reporter, Buying Advice Blanco White - So Certain (single) Early on the last concert of the day at that same festival, Blanco White took the stage. People were aimlessly milling about and the sun hadnt yet set. Kids were playing on the lawn and the smell from the food trucks was intense, but I was enrapt by the four people on stage. The sad violin and strummy guitars floated with the hand-beat drum out into the red hills. The music sounded like I felt: rooted and wrapped in the harsh beauty of the desert and I was really glad to take that home with me. A.S. Martian Revolution If you're as big a nerd as I am, you might know that Leo Tolstoy didn't consider War and Peace to be a novel. The story is what most people read for, but in the author's mind, all the drama was a parable to illustrate his grand theory of history. Over the last year, history podcaster Mike Duncan has accomplished a similar feat using a medium Tolstoy never imagined. Duncan's Revolutions podcast has covered ten different revolutionary upheavals across history, starting with the English Civil War and ending with the Russian Revolution. After wrapping up the Bolsheviks, Duncan took a few episodes to suggest a grand theory of how revolutions unfold. For a while, it seemed like that was all we'd get. Then, in the middle of 2024, he started posting original sci-fi without any indication that this tale, which followed future Martians revolting against their corporate overlords on Earth, was in any way different from the previous ten seasons. Part of what makes the Martian Revolution so excellent is Duncan's deadpan delivery. He never once breaks character. He rattles off lists of fictional sources, apologizes for inaccuracies in prior episodes, and introduces made-up historical figures with the same gravity he once used to mention George Washington or Simon Bolivar. If you're a fan of Revolutions, you'll have a blast recognizing character archetypes. (Mabel Dore is the Liberal Noble! Timothy Werner is the Man of Blood!) But the podcast is great even if you've never listened to an episode of Revolutions. It has an excellent grasp of character and a sense of inevitable tragedy, but with moments of joy leavened throughout. I certainly hope we don't wind up in the megacorp-ruled future of the podcast, but if we do, it'll be a great consolation if it eventually turns out the way Duncan imagines. Sam Chapman, Senior Writer Ron Gallo - Checkmate My favorite artists are ones that surprise me, and Ron Gallo is a master of reinvention. He's dabbled in absurdist punk, psychedelia, garage rock, Beatles-tinged pop and, now, stripped-down acoustic music. This is not a genre I am typically a fan of, Elliott Smith withstanding, but Checkmate is something special. His lyrical prowess is off the charts here, trading his usual wordplay for simple and emotionally-gutting truisms about life, love and, well, the end of the world. Of course, the lyrics wouldn't work if the songs weren't good. The songs are very good. The title track is just about the perfect love song, with a primary hook that gets lost in your head for weeks. Other tracks offer hints of Mac DeMarco, Dan Fogelberg, Kevin Morby and just about everyone else who has crafted great songs on an acoustic guitar. It's fitting that Gallo has found a home on the label Kill Rock Stars, which released so much of Elliott Smith's work back in the day. As an aside, Gallo regularly posts songs about current events on TikTok and other social media platforms, which are worth checking out if you like stuff like Jesse Welles. Lawrence Bonk, Contributing Reporter De La Soul - Cabin in the Sky There have been hip-hop albums that explored the finality and tragedy of death, but not many that truly tackled spirituality and long-term grief. De La Soul has done just that, following the passing of founding member Trugoy the Dove. This album serves as a final testament of sorts for Trugoy, as he's heavily featured throughout. In that way, Cabin in the Sky is reminiscent of A Tribe Called Quest's 2016 masterpiece We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service , which followed the death of rapper Phife Dawg. Like Tribe's modern classic, Cabin in the Sky is filled with absolute bangers. It features standout beats by DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Trugoy, Jake One and others. The rhymes are great and all three primary De La members are given time to shine. Guest rappers like Common and Nas got the memo, delivering some of their most memorable verses in years. Heck, even Giancarlo Esposito is on board as the narrator. Some reviewers have dinged this album for being too long but, come on, that's like complaining there's too much pizza. It's De La Soul. L.B. FKA twigs - Eusexua This was a really good year for new music IMO, so much that I've been finding it pretty difficult to think back and settle on my favorite releases. But, FKA twigs' Eusexua undeniably did some heavy lifting for me, pretty much carrying me through the first six or so months of the year without much competition, and I've circled right back to it as the year closes. It's an album that somehow seems to meet every vibe. It'll have you in club mode and ready for a night of sweaty, filthy dancing in under three minutes, or feeling bright and upbeat like a midday walk on the first day of spring yet it still hits when you're having a good ol' car cry. Girl Feels Good is for sure one of my most-played songs of the year, followed closely by Eusexua, Perfect Stranger, Keep It, Hold It and Striptease. If ever I can't decide what I'm in the mood to listen to, I throw this album on and it doesn't disappoint. Cheyenne MacDonald, Weekend Editor Faetooth - Labyrinthine Faetooth's sophomore album, Labyrinthine , is face-melting, melancholic perfection. The band describes its sound as fairy doom, but don't let that first word fool you into thinking it isn't heavy as hell. Labyrinthine goes unbelievably hard, and will have you feeling like you're eternally wandering a cursed bog, surrounded by the wailing of the unfortunate souls who came before you. Don't believe me? Put on White Noise. This is really an album that should be enjoyed in its entirety, though, and I can't individually name half the songs on it because I tend to just keep the whole thing playing on rotation. C.M. Orville Peck - Appaloosa This EP is truly a testament to my ability to run my obsessions into the ground, because it only came out in mid-November and somehow landed on my most-listened wrapup for the end of the year which was released some two weeks later. It's front-loaded with its strongest songs, a powerful and kind of haunting trio that just flows beautifully from one into the other: Dreaded Sundown, to Drift Away into Atchafalaya (ft. Noah Cyrus). As a fan of musicals, I also loved the inclusion of Maybe This Time, a cover from Cabaret , especially since I was pretty bummed to have missed Peck's stint as the Emcee in Cabaret on Broadway this summer. C.M. Case 63 I got into an audio series kick this year, and dove into shows like Unicorn Girl , Stalked! and more. But none of the dramatized fiction I listened to in 2025 had me hooked like Case 63 . Setting aside that its voice-acted by A-listers Julianne Moore and Oscar Isaac, which is a phenomenal pairing that won me over on star power alone. The best thing about Case 63 is its storytelling. Moore stars as a psychologist, meeting Isaac for the first time in a prison interview. Isaac has been claiming to be a traveler of sorts, and through recorded sessions and voice notes, we hear his side of the story, as well as her reactions and ultimate involvement in the adventures. Every step of the way, particularly in the beginning, there is clear explanation as to why the exchange is being recorded. It isnt necessary, but its helpful in my buying into the realism of the story. It isnt just the method and technical aspects of the storytelling, of course. Narratively, Case 63 is a gripping ride, and thanks to its short episodes, its easy to binge really quickly. There is certainly a generous use of cliffhangers to help speed things along, but I found myself eager to devour the entire series in one commute. The story continued to linger in my mind days after I finished both existing seasons, and Im hoping the new one drops soon. If youre looking for a quick and easy sci-fi audio series, do not miss Case 63 . Cherlynn Low, Managing Editor Secure Love I spent a lot of time this year trying to learn more about my attachment style and how it shows up in all the relationships in my life. Between Stephanie Riggs On Attachment podcast, the TV show Couples Therapy and all the books on the topic of attachment styles, trauma and more, Ive consumed them all. And while theyve all been helpful in different ways, one podcast stuck out to me this year. Its hosted by Julie Menanno, MA, LMFT, LCPC, creator of the @TheSecureRelationship account on Instagram and the author of Secure Love: Create a relationship that lasts a lifetime . You can probably tell from that introduction what Menannos work is all about. Relationships, from the lens of attachment styles. The Secure Love Podcast doesnt just re-deliver the same information weve seen published across various media and platforms, though. Each season of the podcast (its partway through the second as of this writing) sees Menanno work with one couple through their negative cycles, using somatic practices to help each partner understand their emotions, triggers and reactions. Because were listening to real people talk about real-life happenings, its not only easy to relate, but listeners often see themselves in these scenarios. At the start of each episode, too, Menanno reads out or plays notes from the audience, and you can see how fellow listeners have reacted. This season, for example, my friend and some other listeners seemed to really dislike Brian, the anxious male partner in this seasons pair. While Ive certainly found some of Brians ways of speaking borderline offensive, I had a lot more sympathy for him as I started seeing his traits in my loved ones. I also started to identify with his partner Bethany, who Menanno typed as having an avoidant attachment style. As I listened to Bethany and Brian describe the reasons they got into fights and explain where they were coming from, suddenly it felt like the world made sense. I saw similar patterns and reasonings in my own relationship, as well as those of my parents, relatives and friends. It is slightly voyeuristic to listen to something so intimate, of course, but Menanno makes it all educational rather than just entertaining. She gently interrupts parts of each episode to tell the audience why she asks certain questions or what shes attempting to achieve by asking Brian or Bethany to sit with their difficult feelings. I found her method familiar, as I recently started working with a somatic coach whose approach is similar to Menannos, which is rooted in emotion-focused therapy (EFT). Staying with uncomfortable feelings makes me want to jump out of my skin, but being able to endure them, question why they arise and then understand where they come from is crucial to helping uncover the thinking that causes them. Sometimes theyre the result of flawed logic, catastrophic thinking or a simple lack of context, but often theyre very reasonable reactions. If youre looking to understand yourself and your emotions a bit better, or just want to get an idea of what EFT or couples therapy sounds like, I cant recommend The Secure Love Podcast highly enough. C.L. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/music/what-we-listened-to-in-2025-201308584.html?src=rss
Uttarakhand BJP in-charge seeks takedown of 'fake evidence' in Ankita Bhandari murder case
DEHRADUN: The alleged involvement of BJP office-bearer Dushyant Kumar Gautam in the Ankita Bhandari murder case has caused significant embarrassment for the party in Uttarakhand. The controversy stems from claims made in an audio clip allegedly featuring Urmila Sanawar, which has surfaced amid the ongoing investigation into the tragic killing of the Vanantara Resort receptionist. In response to the circulating material, Dushyant Kumar Gautam, BJP National General Secretary and Uttarakhand in-charge, has taken swift action by writing to the Principal Secretary (Home). Gautam has strongly characterised the material as part of a criminal conspiracy, requesting immediate action to remove the objectionable content from social media platforms and prohibit its further dissemination. Ankita Bhandari case: Mother demands action after actress alleges VIP involvement in video In his letter to the Secretary (Home), Dushyant Gautam asserted his standing as a respected social and political worker nationwide. He stated that he had received information indicating that certain criminal elements had fabricated a false and concocted audio recording as part of a deliberate conspiracy. This abhorrent, malicious, and false material is being spread across media and social media platforms to advance this criminal conspiracy, the letter reportedly noted. The BJP in-charge provided specific details of the dissemination channels. The letter named Urmila Sanawar, along with 28 Facebook IDs, their associated email addresses, and phone numbers. Furthermore, the request targeted nine Instagram handles, eight YouTube channels, and two X (formerly Twitter) handles that are allegedly broadcasting this content. The official communication urged the relevant social media platforms and news channels to immediately remove all such material and impose a ban on its direct or indirect broadcast. As evidence, a pen drive containing the downloaded content from these social media accounts was reportedly attached to the letter sent to the Secretary (Home). The tragic murder of nineteen-year-old Ankita Bhandari first came to light on September 18, 2022. Ankita worked as a receptionist at the Vanantara Resort in Yamkeshwar, Pauri district. Her body was tragically recovered from the Cheela Shakti Canal approximately one week after she was reported missing.
BIS notifies first Indian standard for agarbattis, bans harmful chemicals
Announced on National Consumer Day 2025, the standardIS 19412:2025lays down clear norms for raw materials, burning quality, fragrance performance, and chemical safety.
US based cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Dr Jeremy London has highlighted four key medical tests that can help detect hidden heart risks early. Sharing insights on Instagram, he explained the role of the ankle brachial index, carotid ultrasound, echocardiogram and cardiac CT angiogram in assessing vascular and heart health. Dr London stressed these tests are not routine checklists, but tools best chosen through personalised discussions with a physician based on individual risk factors.
New BIS standard for 'agarbattis' to ensure consumer safety, boost Rs 8,000 cr market
India, the world's largest agarbatti producer, has introduced a new quality standard, IS 19412:2025, to ensure consumer safety by prohibiting certain insecticidal and fragrance chemicals. This move aims to boost the Rs 8,000 crore incense stick market and enhance global competitiveness by ensuring safer products and consistent quality.
Culture: Maha Kumbh, 150 Years Of Vande Mataram, UNESCO Tag For Deepavali In 2025
New Delhi, Dec 26: From the Maha Kumbh in January-February to the launch of year-long celebrations of 150 years of Vande Mataram in November it was a packed calendar for the Ministry of Culture in 2025. The year ended on a high note with Deepavali, the festival of lights, earning the UNESCO tag. Indias cultural heritage was showcased at the Maha Kumbh through Kalagram in the tent city at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Set up in a sprawling 10.24-acre [] The post Culture: Maha Kumbh, 150 Years Of Vande Mataram, UNESCO Tag For Deepavali In 2025 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sidharth Malhotra, Kiara Advani share glimpse of their Miss Claus Saraayahs first Christmas
Mumbai: Star couple Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani gave a tender peek into their daughter Saraayahs first Christmas, sharing an adorable glimpse of their little Miss Claus as the family marked the festive occasion together. Kiara took to Instagram Stories to share a close-up picture of their baby Saraayah dressed in a red outfit with 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 .
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred on India's 14-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his exploits in the field of cricket. The President conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on children for their exceptional achievements in the fields of Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture and Science & Technology at a ceremony held in the national capital. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is Indias highest civilian honour for individuals aged five to 18, instituted to recognise exceptional achievements across diverse fields like art and culture, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports and instances of bravery. Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the recipients of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar and said, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has made a name for himself in the highly competitive and talent-filled world of cricket and has set many records. The teenager is also slated to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. Following the ceremony in Delhi, he will rejoin the India Under-19 squad and travel to Zimbabwe for preparations ahead of the Under-19 World Cup, which begins from January 15. The BCCI also congratulated the youngster for his achievement. Congratulations to our explosive young batter, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, on being conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmuji, it posted on X. Earlier this week, Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh at the Vijay Hazare Trophy, becoming the youngest centurion in List A history. The knock also broke AB de Villiers record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket and his 15 sixes in the innings are the most by any Indian in the 50-over format. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Suryvanshi was the most-searched Indian on Google and ranked sixth overall worldwide. Last month, social media platform Instagram chose to spotlight Suryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He then stunned everyone nine days later by becoming the youngest centurion in the leagues history. Vaibhavs explosive 35-ball 100 against the Gujarat Titans was the fastest IPL century by an Indian and the second-fastest overall, behind only Chris Gayle. Article Source: IANS
Airports witness 7% surge in passenger traffic during November 2025 over same period last year
NEW DELHI: Airports across the country have recorded a 7% increase in passenger traffic during November 2025 as compared to the same month last year, according to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Air Traffic data for last month has just been released by the Authority. Over 3.79 crore flyers were recorded in the country last month, of which a little over three crore were domestic flyers. The overall international growth in the month was 7.5% (70,60,493 vs 65,69,934) while the domestic growth was 7% (3,79,51,054 vs 3,54,52,122) over the compared month last year. The domestic passenger traffic in relatively smaller airports has been in healthy double digits highlighting the aspiration for air travel among the non-metro population. Despite the negative publicity for Goa due to its taxi monopoly, overpriced hotels and overcrowded beaches, international patronage to the tourist haven has shot up by 31. 4%. A total of 20,479 flyers travelled last month as compared to 15,581 flyers in November 2024. Its domestic patronage has taken a beating with a 10.5% dip in flyers with just 5.4 lakh passengers from other States visiting it last month. The number was 6.1 lakh visitors in November last year. While the biggies have seen moderate growth, relatively smaller airports have recorded a growth of over 30% international passengers in November this year over the patronage witnessed in the same month last year. Bhubaneswar has seen a growth of 30.5% (14,220 flyers) Tiruchirappalli has 39.9% (19,402 flyers), Varanasi 40.4% (16,070 flyers) and Mangaluru 35.4% (76,579 flyers), Indore has doubled its patronage with a 99.9% growth (8,902 flyers as compared to 4,454 earlier) while Pune has seen a 49% patronage with 30,633 flyers. Among the major airports in the country, Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport continues its steady international growth with 6,42,647 passengers, a 27.3% increase in November 2025 vs November 2024. Hyderabad too has seen significant patronage with a 21% growth (4,86,126 flyers). Mumbai has seen a 6.5% (14,61,956 flyers) Chennai 6.1% (5,03,589) growth while Delhi has seen a 3% increase (19,07,845). Domestic picture On the domestic front, these airports have recorded a substantial growth with the patronage figure in the bracket Agra 77% (26470 flyers), Kozhikode 34.3% (16,90,918 flyers); Tiruchirappalli 50.9% (65,297); Tirupati 30.7% (1,08,441); Kannur 35.8% (35,637), Gaya 38.7% (27,862), Belagavi 32.1% (32118) and Indore 26.6% (27862). Hindon airport has seen a 2998% growth! It is 1,22,381 flyers versus 3,950 last November. Adampur (Jalandhar) has seen a 319.7% surge with 13,595 passengers, Rewa has recorded 179.9% surge (949 flyers) Jaisalmer 121.5% growth (43,971) while Bhuj has seen a 110% growth with 26,687 flyers. The Air Traffic Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have seen an increase of 7.3% with 40,909 ATMs recorded in November 2025 over November 2024. The freight growth too is a healthy 15.6% with 337.45 thousand tonnes versus 291.84 thousand tonnes in the compared period.
Samantha Calls 2025 a Year Full of Gratitude
As 2025 draws to a close, Samantha shared a glimpse of her memorable year on Instagram on Christmas Day
Janhvi Kapoor raises voice against barbaric killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh
Mumbai: Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor has condemned the barbaric lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. The actress has called the act inhuman, and has urged people not to ignore such violence. The actress took to the Stories section of her Instagram on Thursday, and penned a long note, expressing her pain and anger at 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 .
Madras High Court suggests Australia-like ban on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat for children under 16
The Madras High Court has suggested Centre to explore the possibility of drafting legislation similar to that adopted by Australia which recently banned social media platforms for children under the age of 16. The court was hearing a petition which raised concerns how the pornographic content are available and easily accessible to children. Australia has become the first and the only country to ban Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit and streaming platforms Kick and Twitch for teens.
Katrina Kaif returned to social media after a month, ever since she welcomed a baby boy with Vicky Kaushal. In the latest post, she's seen posing with Vicky, her brother Sebastian, and her brother-in-law Sunny Kaushal.
IAS Officers Reshuffle: Haritha Is New TGPSC Secretary
Garima Agrawal (2019 batch), additional collector (local bodies), Rajanna Sircilla, was directed to continue to hold full additional charge (FAC) of the post of collector.
Armymen can now sign up on Instagram as passive observers
New Delhi: The Indian Army has brought a change in its social media guidelines under which its personnel can now sign up on Instagram, but with a rider that they can use it only as passive observers without putting up posts or comments on the platform, sources said on Thursday. The move aims to augment [] The post Armymen can now sign up on Instagram as passive observers appeared first on The Navhind Times .
CBK files chargesheet in fake jobs & land scam
Srinagar: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Crime Branch Kashmir (CBK) has filed a chargesheet in FIR No. 54/2023 under Sections 419, 420, 467, 468, and 471 IPC before the Court of the 4th Additional Munsiff Judge, Srinagar. The accused named in the chargesheet is Fouzia Afzal, daughter of Mohd Afzal Magray, resident of Rehmatullah []
Army limits social media use to 'viewing only'
The Indian Army has introduced new rules for social media. Personnel can now view and monitor platforms like Instagram. Communication on these sites is restricted. Apps like WhatsApp and Telegram can be used for general, unclassified information exchange. Users must ensure they are communicating with known individuals. These guidelines aim to manage digital interactions for army personnel.
Row over Aravalli redefinition intensifies in Rajasthan even as Centre announces mining ban
JAIPUR: Row over redefining the Aravalli range continues to escalate in Rajasthan despite the Centre's assurance that no new mining leases will be granted in the Aravallis. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma termed the Centres decision historic. Former CM Ashok Gehlot responded that there is nothing new in the announcement. In a post on X, CM Sharma accused the Congress of protecting the illegal mining mafia for decades and alleged that the party was misleading the public by spreading lies and confusion. He urged the Congress to introspect and abandon what he called negative politics. Countering this, Gehlot questioned the contradiction between the Centres statements and the actions of the Rajasthan government. He pointed out that Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has repeatedly stated that no mining - above or below 100 metres - would be allowed in the Aravalli range until the Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) is finalised. Gehlot alleged that the BJP-led Rajasthan government has auctioned 50 new mining leases in the Aravalli region, allegedly in violation of Supreme Court directions. Meanwhile state Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra and Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully have also intensified their attack on the government. Dotasra announced protests at the district, block, and state levels across 19 districts, with Congress frontal organisations joining the campaign. The NSUI will hold a march on Friday under the Save Aravalli, Save Life campaign, in which former deputy chief minister and Congress national general secretary Sachin Pilot is scheduled to participate. The controversy has further deepened following media reports highlighting discrepancies between the Centres claims and official documents. According to these reports Bhupendra Yadav recently stated that after the revised definition of the Aravalli range, only 277.9 square kilometres would be eligible for mining. In sharp contrast, documents linked to the Central Empowered Committees (CEC) 2024 report present a different picture. A note attached to the CEC report states that the existing mining area in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan alone stands at 2,339 square kilometres, a fact recorded in paragraph B of the report. The same document refers to the Rajasthan governments draft Vision Document2047, which proposes expanding the mining area from 2,339 to 4,000 square kilometres to promote responsible mining and accelerate economic development. Responding to the allegations, Bhupendra Yadav in a media interview said that misinformation was being spread about the Aravalli range. According to the union minister, a scientific management plan will first be prepared and evaluated by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), with sustainability as the key criterion for any future decisions. Yadav further said that the Aravalli issue has been pending before the Supreme Court since the Congress governments tenure, with illegal mining being the core concern. The fact that illegal mining was taking place shows there was no uniform identification of the Aravallis at the district level and no consensus on what constituted the Aravallis, he said. As the two sides remain unbending, resolving the Aravalli row seems quite elusive.
Army personnel can now sign up on Instagram, but as 'passive observers': Sources
The Indian Army has updated its social media guidelines. Personnel can now access Instagram but only as passive observers. This means they can view content but cannot post or comment. The move aims to enhance digital awareness while preventing sensitive information leaks. Similar restrictions already apply to X.
Delhi-based clinical nutritionist Lovneet Batra has warned that certain food combinations can quietly sabotage weight loss. In a widely shared Instagram post, she explained that pairing fruits with starches, fats with refined carbs, sugar with caffeine, or adding liquid calories to meals can spike blood sugar, disrupt hormones and increase fat storage. Her insights highlight that metabolic responses and food pairing matter as much as calorie intake for sustainable weight loss.
Indore stretch of Agra-Bombay Road to be named after Vajpayee
Indore: The Indore Municipal Corporation on Thursday decided to name an arterial road after Atal Bihari Vajpayee to mark the 101st birth anniversary of the former prime minister and Bharat Ratna awardee. The decision to rename AB Road (Agra-Bombay Road) as Atal Bihari Marg was unanimously taken at the Mayor-in-Council meeting, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava told 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 .
Merry Christmas wishes, quotes, images, Greeting Card and GIFs for your loved ones: Christmas celebrations vary for many. This guide offers heartfelt messages for loved ones near and far. Words can convey warmth, humor, and comfort across any distance. These wishes help people feel remembered and valued. The article provides examples for family, friends, and colleagues. It emphasizes sincerity over perfection. Messages can make the season feel less lonely and more meaningful.
A US-based physician has warned that certain late night foods can disrupt sleep and harm long term health. Dr John Valentine, known as @healthylifesage on Instagram, cautioned against consuming coffee, ice cream, cheeseburgers and dark chocolate before bed, citing their stimulant effects and digestive strain. He stressed that poor sleep linked to such habits may increase risks of metabolic and heart related conditions over time.
Former Miss India and actor Celina Jaitly shared an emotional Christmas away from her three children for the first time, following a domestic violence case against her husband Peter Haag. In heartfelt Instagram posts, she described the pain of separation, recalled cherished memories, and expressed love and hope through Santa. Jaitly has sought custody amid allegations of financial control and restricted communication, while legal proceedings continue in both Mumbai and Austria, with the next hearing set for January 27.
UP: Agra zone police launch 'Operation Jagriti' phase-5 to strengthen womens safety and empowerment
Agra Zone Police's Operation Jagriti is making strides in women's empowerment and safety, focusing on victim support, cyber harassment prevention, and reducing elopement cases. Phase-5, involving various departments and UNICEF, has reached over 5.5 lakh people through grassroots awareness drives. Previous phases showed significant drops in elopement and crimes against women.
Set between Europe and Agra, Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday's Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri majorly works due to the drama, conflict, and contribution of the supporting cast in the second half.
Nidhhi Agerwal's Reaction To Sivaji's Comments On Outfit During Mobbing Incident
Actress Nidhhi Agerwal responded through her Instagram story with a caption about victim manipulation.
Watch: Hrithik Roshan, sons dance on Sukhbirs Oh Ho Ho Ho
Mumbai: Actor Hrithik Roshan shared a heartwarming family moment as he was seen dancing with his sons Hrehaan and Hridaan to Sukhbirs popular track Oh Ho Ho Ho at his cousins wedding celebration. Hrithik took to Instagram to share a video of the fatherson trio stealing the spotlight as they danced together to the peppy 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 .
Projects commissioned, India set to overtake US in metro network length
NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Railways has claimed that India is on course to overtake the United States in total metro network length as ongoing projects are commissioned. Metro and suburban rail networks are currently operational across 1,090 km in 26 cities, including both major metros and Tier-2 cities, making urban mobility faster and more economically affordable for low- and middle-income groups. The Ministry further stated that despite the rapid expansion of metro and suburban rail services, no fare hike has been implemented so far by the government, reflecting its concern for low- and middle-class commuters. Speaking to this newspaper on Wednesday, an official at the Ministry said that Indias metro network has grown exponentially from just 248 km across five cities in 2014 to 1,090 km in 2025, spanning 26 cities- both metro and Tier-2. This represents a remarkable 340% growth over the past decade. He said that metro expansion has taken place not only in major cities but also in Tier-2 cities such as Bhopal, Indore, Kanpur, Nagpur, Pune, Surat, Agra, Lucknow, Jaipur and Kochi. He added that metro services were operational over just 27 km in 2002, which increased to 50 km in 2004, 101 km in 2009, 249 km in 2014, 647 km in 2019, 945 km in 2024 and 1,090 km in 2025. According to the official, the commissioning of metro lines has increased nine times compared to pre-2014 rates, with the aim of accelerating urban transport infrastructure under the NDA government. Highlighting the work done on metro and suburban rail services during the current NDA government, the official said that urban mobility has been made affordable and efficient, with metro travel costing 5060% less per passenger-km than private vehicles. He said this has significantly reduced daily commuting costs and eased traffic congestion on roads. Citing figures, the official further added that affordable fare slabs, typically ranging between Rs 20 and Rs 60 at launch in cities such as Bhopal, demonstrate accessibility for low- and middle-income commuters. He further stated that average daily metro ridership across the country now stands at around 1.15 crore, which is four times higher than the 28 lakh daily ridership recorded in 2014.
Merry Christmas 2025: Finally, Christmas, the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ is here. It is a time for families to come together, share meals, and exchange gifts, reflecting on the spirit of love and generosity. On this special occasion , we have complied quotes, greetings, WhatsApp status, Instagram photos, Facebook greetings to share with your loved ones.
Salman, Dhoni, AP Dhillons muddy pic goes viral
Superstar Salman Khan is just days away from his 60th birthday, and as his special day nears, fans and his close ones are making sure to celebrate the moment in their own ways. Ahead of Bhaijaans special day, his brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri took to his Instagram account to share a picture that went viral in []
A 21-year-old woman in Bengaluru was allegedly stalked and assaulted by an Instagram acquaintance. The accused, 29-year-old Naveen Kumar N, reportedly harassed her after she rejected his advances. He intercepted her and her friend, assaulting her. Police arrested Naveen within 24 hours, registering a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Anuj Sachdeva Opens Up On Mental Trauma After Attack Over Parking, Shares Injury Marks
The actor took to his Instagram handle on Wednesday to share a series of pictures that showed visible injuries on his body
Surprise inspection leads to seizure of prohibited items at Parappana Agrahara
Biryani is Indias most-ordered dish: Tips to keep your order guilt-free
Biryani holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of millions across India, with an impressive number of orders each year. To relish this iconic dish healthily, think of it as a balanced meal pair your fragrant rice with good protein, embrace the traditional dum method of cooking, and choose spices wisely.
Anand Bakshi's Son Slams Remix Of Saat Samundar Paar In Kartik Aaryan's Tu Meri Main Tera
On Wednesday, Anand Bakshi's son took to Instagram after noticing that both Anand Bakshi and Karan Nawani were credited as lyricists for the remix
Man arrested for harassing, assaulting woman outside PG in Bengaluru; CCTV captures incident
BENGALURU: A 29-year-old man has been arrested by Jnanabharathi police for allegedly sexually harassing and assaulting a woman outside her paying guest (PG) accommodation, an incident that was captured on CCTV. The incident took place on Monday afternoon on Ullal Main Road. The victim and the accused were in a relationship after getting to know each other through Instagram. Police said the relationship later became strained, following which the woman began avoiding him and blocked his number. Angered by this, the accused allegedly went in search of her and attacked her outside her PG. The accused has been identified as Naveen Kumar, a resident of Billamaranahalli in Yelahanka. Naveen, who has studied up to PUC, is currently unemployed. Police said he allegedly sexually harassed and assaulted the 21-year-old victim at around 3.20 pm on Monday. The victim works as a tele-caller and had met the accused on Instagram in 2024. The accused who came in a car stopped next to the two-wheeler on which the victim was about to leave with her female friend. He suddenly grabbed her and started questioning her for avoiding him. He also pulled her bag and checked for something. He also held her tightly and checked her looking for something. He then attacked her in public and left in the car for refusing to continue the relationship. In the CCTV footage, the victim is heard screaming with pain, said an officer. According to the police, the womans friend, who was riding the scooter, witnessed the entire incident. Following the womans complaint, the police arrested the accused within 24 hours. Further investigations are under way.
This Indian state became Indias 'Most Visited State in 2025'; and heres why
Uttar Pradesh has been named India's most visited state in 2025, attracting 646.8 million domestic tourists. This surge, particularly driven by Gen Z travelers and solo adventurers, highlights the state's growing appeal for spirituality, history, and culture, with cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Agra leading the way.
ATR/BPN to keep land services open during Christmas-New Year holidays
The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning (ATR)/National Land Agency (BPN) would continued to provide land ...
