kolkata

Bangladeshi held in Bengal for aiding killers of Sharif Osman Hadi to escape

Kolkata: The West Bengal Polices STF arrested a Bangladeshi for allegedly helping the suspected killers of Sharif Osman Hadi, a youth leader from the neighbouring country, flee to India after committing the crime, an officer said on Sunday, March 15. The arrest comes a week after the Special Task Force (STF) apprehended two suspects wanted 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 .

Once A Dilliwala, Always A Dilliwala, Says Delhi Capitals After Pietersen Steps Down As Mentor Ahead Of IPL 2026

Head Coach Hemang Badani: Delhi Capitals bid farewell to the teams now-former mentor Kevin Pietersen after the England veteran announced on Saturday that he was stepping down from his role, stating that he could not commit the time it requires. The 45-year-old, however, will be back in the commentary box for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. DC had appointed Pietersen for the role in February last year, for the 2025 edition of the tournament, as he worked alongside the support staff, which included Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao, Head Coach Hemang Badani, Assistant Coach Matthew Mott and Bowling Coach Munaf Patel. The England veteran took to X on Saturday to share the news, saying, I cannot be a mentor for Delhi Capitals in this IPL season. I can't commit to the time that the job requires. Best wishes to all the players for this season! However, I'll see you back in the commentary box! IPL is the world's best league, and I can't wait to see all of you soon! The franchise shared an edit for Pietersen on Sunday, captioning it, Once a Dilliwala, always a Dilliwala. Thank you for all the love & roars, KP. The former England cricketer also reacted to their post by dropping a heart emoji. Earlier this week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the schedule for the first phase of IPL 2026, to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026. As three states are scheduled to undergo State Assembly elections during this period, the full schedule of the tournament will be announced once the poll dates are announced, BCCI said in a statement. Earlier this week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the schedule for the first phase of IPL 2026, to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A total of 20 matches will be played across 10 venues: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. Article Source: IANS

Ajsals goal earns Kerala Blasters draw against East Bengal

Kolkata, March 14: Muhammad Ajsal effected a dramatic stoppage-time header as Kerala Blasters FC snatched a 1-1 draw against East Bengal FC to open their account after Youssef Ezzejjari had put the home side in the lead early in an Indian Super League match here on Saturday. Youssef, the Spanish-Moroccan forward, gave East Bengal FC []

Kolkata: TMC, BJP supporters clash ahead of PMs rally

Police sources said Bowbazar police station officer-in-charge Bappaditya Naskar was injured while trying to control the situation.

The lessons to learn from icmic and induction cookers

An LPG shortage is prompting a return to older cooking methods. The Icmic cooker, invented in Calcutta, offers a slow-cooking solution. Induction cooking, with roots in early 20th-century patents, is also gaining traction. Maintaining a variety of cooking options is crucial. Kolkata could revive the Icmic cooker. This ensures preparedness for future fuel challenges.

TMC opposes SIR to shield infiltrators; countdown begins for Mamata govts exit in Bengal: Modi

KOLKATA, Mar 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the ruling TMC, accusing it of opposing the SIR of electoral rolls to shield infiltrators and alleging that illegal immigration under its rule had altered West Bengals demographic balance, turning Hindus into minorities in several areas ahead of the assembly elections. Addressing a massive rally at the iconic Brigade Parade Ground here, Modi framed the upcoming assembly polls as a decisive battle for the states [] The post TMC opposes SIR to shield infiltrators; countdown begins for Mamata govts exit in Bengal: Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Regime change written on the wall in Bengal: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool Congress for allegedly disrespecting President Droupadi Murmu during her West Bengal visit, calling it an insult to the President, the Constitution, women, and the tribal community. Speaking at a rally in Kolkata, he warned that infiltrators were threatening local jobs and land, accused the state government of appeasement politics, and asserted that regime change in Bengal was imminent.

Pashmina, a Kashmir tale of grief, to be staged in Kolkata

At a vibrant Kolkata festival, Begusarai's Ashirwad Rangmandal will present 'Pashmina', an evocative play that explores the intertwined sorrow felt across various communities, beautifully symbolized by the embrace of a shawl. The troupe's secretary expresses a poignant concern over the continuous neglect of theatre in Bihar, emphasizing its critical importance in fostering social insights and nurturing personal growth.

BJP Attacks WB Ministers House in Kolkata, TMC Retaliates

He has been asked to explain why the central forces were not visible at the scene.

NZ vs SA 1st T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

NZ vs SA 1st T20I , Cricket Tips :Ten days ago New Zealand kicked South Africa out of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 after beating them in the semifinal in Kolkata. Now these two sides will be up against each other in five T20Is, with several new faces. The first T20I will commence at 11:45 AM IST on Sunday. This game will be played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. There are only seven players for New Zealand, including captain Mitch Santner, who played in the T20 World Cup 2026. Meanwhile, for South Africa, there are only three players who were part of the ICC event, and Keshav Maharaj will lead the Proteas in this series. NZ vs SA: Match Details Date : March 15, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 11:45 AM IST Venue : Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui NZ vs SA: Live Streaming Details The live action of the T20I series will be on Sony Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream through the Sony LIV app or website. NZ vs SA: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 20 New Zealand : 08 South Africa : 12 No result/Tied: 0 NZ vs SA: Ground Pitch Report Bay Oval is known to be a good venue for batting. The wicket is flat with limited assistance for the bowlers. Early on, there will be swing with the new ball. The wicket offers good bounce, which helps the batters to time big shots. NZ vs SA: Possible XIs New Zealand : Tim Robinson, Devon Conway (wk), Tom Latham, Katene D Clarke, Bevon Jacobs, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Cole McConchie, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears South Africa : Jordan Hermann, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann (wk), Connor Esterhuizen, Wiaan Mulder, Jason Smith, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj (c), Ottneil Baartman, Nqobani Mokoena NZ vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Devon Conway is the most established batter from New Zealand in this format, and he is likely to perform in these conditions. For South Africa, Tony de Zorzi has been performing well in other formats. He will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Kyle Jamieson has been the difference-maker in recent matches. His height and pace will be his big weapons in this game. For South Africa, Ottneil Baartman had a great SA20 and will be a tough bowler. Today Match Prediction : South Africa are very inexperienced in the batting unit, which can struggle under pressure. Hence, we predict New Zealand to beat South Africa in the 1st T20I. NZ vs SA Match 1st T20I, Today Match NZ vs SA, NZ vs SA Prediction, NZ vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update for NZ vs SA Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Indias Decision To Stick With Samson In Top Three Worked Out Really Well, Says Ponting

T20 World Cup: The legendary Ricky Ponting has identified India's decision to persist with wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson at the top of the order as one of the defining calls in their triumphant ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, saying the faith shown in him by captain Suryakumar Yadav and the coaching staff proved to be the difference on the biggest stage. Samson's tournament began in uncertainty he had made only 46 runs in five T20Is against New Zealand and only got to play in the league stage game against Namibia in New Delhi due to Abhishek Sharmas stomach infection. Samson was then recalled for a crucial Super Eights game against Zimbabwe, and from there, he responded with a campaign that ultimately earned him the Player of the Tournament award. A blazing 97 not out in a virtual knockout game against the West Indies in Kolkata was followed by 89 in the semifinal against England in Mumbai and another knock of 89 in the final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad. His 321 runs across five innings are the most runs made by an Indian batter in a single edition of the Mens T20 World Cup. For India to stick with him at the top there, that was a big call to make. A big decision, but one that worked out really well in the end. If you get the backing of the coaching staff and the captain, then that's all you need. Just a pat on the back or an arm around the shoulder to say, we're sticking with you, we believe in you. When you've got the quality that Sanju's got, and the confidence of the captain and coach behind you, that's when great things can happen, said Ponting on The ICC Review show. For Ponting, who captained Australia to the 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cup triumphs, Samson's resurgence, along with Abhishek coming good by hitting 52 in the final, also showed how good India captain Suryakumar Yadavs leadership skills were in bringing the best out of his players. It would have been really interesting to see how Surya has interacted with Abhishek (Sharam) and Sanju (Samson) over the last few weeks. Thats where the real stories will come out on true leadership. It would have been really interesting to see how Surya has interacted with Abhishek (Sharam) and Sanju (Samson) over the last few weeks. Thats where the real stories will come out on true leadership, he added. Ponting also noted that Suryakumar kept himself calm despite ups and downs in his batting returns. Beyond an 84 not out off 49 balls against the United States of America (USA) in the opening game in Mumbai, the Indian captain managed to amass just 158 runs in his remaining eight innings, yet steered India to winning the title on home soil. It would have been really interesting to see how Surya has interacted with Abhishek (Sharam) and Sanju (Samson) over the last few weeks. Thats where the real stories will come out on true leadership, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I know as a former captain, when youre not batting at your absolute best, captaincy can become really difficult. And when you are batting well, captaincy can become really easy, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Watch: PM Modi slams TMC for insulting President Murmu and Tribals in Kolkata

UK-chef prepares Kolkata biryani with a modern twist. Bengalis say, This is how you introduce food to strangers

Chef Shaun Kenworthy, head chef at The Glenburn Penthouse in Kolkata, has presented a new version of Kolkata biryani. His creation features a rice velout base and slow-cooked mutton. The dish also includes a boiled egg and potato, topped with crispy onions. Kenworthy shared the recipe on Instagram, calling it an ode to the classic dish.

'Openly protecting rapists': PM Modi slams TMC over RG Kar and Sandeshkhali cases

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a strong attack on the TMC in Kolkata, accusing the party of protecting rapists and insulting President Droupadi Murmu. He also alleged that the TMC opposes electoral roll revisions to shield infiltrators and deliberately alters demographics, making Hindus a minority in several areas.

KKR launch quirky Lines of Legacy campaign to unveil 2026 jersey

Three-time champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have unveiled a fresh new jersey ahead of IPL 2026, designed in the theme of Lines of Legacy.At the heart of the design are the defining moments that have shaped KKRs journey over the years.

Shreyas Is Underrated, But Is An Exceptional Leader: Kumble

Indian Premier League: Former India captain and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble has heaped praise on Shreyas Iyer, calling him an underrated yet exceptional leader in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The former coach believes Iyers leadership qualities are often overlooked despite the batter consistently delivering strong performances as a captain. Speaking about Iyers leadership journey, Kumble highlighted how difficult it is for a captain to succeed across different franchises in the highly competitive environment of the IPL. According to Kumble, the transition between teams often brings new challenges ranging from management dynamics to team culture. Shreyas Iyer is certainly an underrated skipper. It is not easy to win a trophy with one franchise and then go to another. There is a different management, atmosphere and a team. The pressure is also different. The new franchise he joined had not played in the final in the last 10 years and in just his first season with the Punjab Kings, he took them to the final, Kumble told JioStar while discussing Iyers impact at the Punjab Kings. Kumble also praised Iyers ability to lead from the front, emphasising that the batters contributions go beyond tactical decisions on the field, as he said, I was not just impressed by his captaincy, but the way he led the team from the front. There are some players who have to prove themselves every time. Shreyas is like that. Even after performing, questions still come up. I think he is underrated, but is an exceptional leader. The former India captain also turned his attention to Kolkata Knight Riders and their retention strategy, questioning the franchises decision to release key members of their title-winning squad. Two years ago, KKR won the IPL and lifted their third trophy. Two important cogs in that wheel were Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt. Both played crucial roles in helping them win. But KKR let both of them go. There is no consistency from them in terms of player retention, Kumble remarked. He further argued that letting go of a title-winning captain can significantly weaken a teams structure and leadership stability, saying, KKR took the wrong decision by letting Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt leave. That has left them without an IPL-winning Captain. Yes, Ajinkya Rahane is an experienced campaigner. He has led Mumbai in domestic cricket and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. But he has not lifted the IPL title as Captain. Having a skipper who has won the trophy gives you an advantage. Two years ago, KKR won the IPL and lifted their third trophy. Two important cogs in that wheel were Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt. Both played crucial roles in helping them win. But KKR let both of them go. There is no consistency from them in terms of player retention, Kumble remarked. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR let go of that advantage. They need to learn how to keep hold of their key players. Otherwise, they will keep struggling and cannot be considered favourites to win the trophy, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

BJP-TMC clashes erupt near PM Modi's rally venue, injuries reported

Clashes erupted in Kolkata's Girish Park area before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally. BJP and Trinamool workers fought, leading to injuries and vandalism. A bus carrying BJP supporters was attacked. Stones were reportedly hurled by both sides. Trinamool Minister Sashi Panja's residence was also targeted. Police intervened to control the situation.

Main Focus On Playing As Much T20 Cricket As We Can Ahead Of WC: Wolvaardt

T20 World Cup: South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said that every game of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand carries the purpose of playing as many games as possible in preparation for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup 2026, to be played in England from June 12 to July 5. The Proteas women will open the series against the White Ferns on Sunday in Mount Maunganui in an afternoon game, followed by their male counterparts facing off against each other in the evening. It's great. I think while we're here, we might as well play a couple of extra games, especially with the World Cup right around the corner. That's obviously the main focus, playing as much T20 cricket as we can. Five games sort of give you the chance to try a few things as well. You have enough games to tweak a few things here or there. It's a great initiative and hopefully we can win the series, said Laura on the eve of the series opener, in a Cricket South Africa (CSA) statement. This arrangement is part of a historic double-header that marks the first time both South African teams playing a full series of back-to-back games against the same nation, something which has left Laura very excited. You sort of feel like one big team over here, sharing knowledge and chatting to them. And just seeing how they go about things is cool for me as well. It doesn't happen a lot that you sort of tour side by side but I think it'll be very cool cricket-wise as well to watch their game after ours, she said. Stand-in men's captain Keshav Maharaj echoed the sentiment around rise of women's cricket worldwide. Women's cricket has come along in leaps and bounds, and it's wonderful for them to have the stage as well. Theyve played some amazing cricket and some very exciting cricket games that have gone down to the wire - It's also exciting for us to be able to witness it live. The last time Proteas Women faced the White Ferns was in the T20 World Cup 2024 final in Dubai, where the latter won the trophy. Meanwhile, the Proteas Men met the Blackcaps earlier this month in the semi-final of the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup 2026 in Kolkata, where they lost by nine wickets. The Proteas mens squad features five uncapped players - Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester, Jordan Hermann, Nqobani Mokoena and Prenelan Subrayen. Its always been a wonderful rivalry. Good cricket played on the field, but there's still that respect that's between both sides. New Zealand are a really strong side, obviously coming off a really big high coming from India. But I think with the squad that we have, there's a lot of energy within the environment being a lot younger. So hopefully it will be a good, strong series. And fingers crossed we come on top. We also want to try and win with a really young side. Shuks said the other day, what a story it would be to tell when you get on that flight to go back home and be like, wow, that was amazing and special to be a part of, added Maharaj. The opening game on Sunday will also mark Maharajs 50th T20I appearance. He made his T20I debut in 2021 and has since become one of the Proteas most dependable performers. Whats it been, five years? I made my debut in Sri Lanka as captain and here I am in my 50th. I've got the same buzz and energy, and I try to stay true to what I do. And fingers crossed we come on top. We also want to try and win with a really young side. Shuks said the other day, what a story it would be to tell when you get on that flight to go back home and be like, wow, that was amazing and special to be a part of, added Maharaj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And I try to emulate that style, not just as a captain, but just from a senior player within the environment, taking guys under my wing and basically just sort of being that father figure to them, concluded Maharaj. Article Source: IANS

PM Modi arrives in Kolkata, to unveil development projects worth over 18,500 crore

PM Modi is scheduled to head to the Brigade Parade Ground for a rally by helicopter.

TMC and BJP supporters clash in Kolkata hours before PM Modis rally

Tensions flared near Girish Park in Kolkata as TMC and BJP supporters clashed, pelting stones and raising slogans just before Prime Minister Modi's rally. Both parties accused each other of initiating the violence, with claims of damaged vehicles and hurled abuses. Police intervened to restore order in the area.

Gas shortage fears in Bengal lead to long queues outside distribution centres

Crowds were seen outside distribution centres since early morning at various places in Kolkata, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts

VVS Laxman recalls 'special' Eden Gardens partnership with Rahul Dravid as Kolkata Test turns 25

Former India cricketer VVS Laxman recalled his legendary partnership with Rahul Dravid in the 2001 Kolkata Test. This stand, built on belief and resilience, led to one of cricket's greatest comebacks. Australia, on a winning streak, was defeated by India after being forced to follow on. The duo's monumental partnership defied challenges and turned the match around.

PCB Set To Take Legal Action Against Muzarabani For Ditching PSL For IPL

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning to take legal action against Zimbabwe bowler Blessing Muzarabani after the pacer withdrew from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the very last minute to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Muzarbani has joined the three-time IPL champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, who was released from the squad following the instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Muzarabani, who has represented Zimbabwe in 89 T20Is, was earlier roped in by three-time champions Islamabad United for 11 million PKR as his West Indies counterpart Shamar Joseph's replacement for the PSL 11, scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3. According to a report in Geo Super, the fast bowler's decision to ditch the PSL drew a stern reaction from the PCB, which is set to take legal action against Muzarabani. This marks the second consecutive year that a player initially contracted to a PSL franchise has opted to join an IPL team, with both tournaments running concurrently. Last season, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch was selected as a Diamond Pick by Peshawar Zalmi but later joined the Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement. Bosch's subsequent withdrawal from the PSL led to the league imposing a one-season ban on him. Muzarabani arrives after a strong showing in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, where he was the leading wicket-taker for the Zimbabwe national team, claiming 13 wicketsthe fourth-highest in the tournament overall. Last season, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch was selected as a Diamond Pick by Peshawar Zalmi but later joined the Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement. Bosch's subsequent withdrawal from the PSL led to the league imposing a one-season ban on him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Muzarbani is set to join the KKR for the preparation on March 17. Article Source: IANS

PM Modi to address mega Brigade rally in Kolkata, launch projects ahead of Bengal polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a grand rally in Kolkata on Saturday. This event marks the conclusion of the BJP's 'Poribartan Yatra'. It also signals the start of the party's campaign for the upcoming West Bengal assembly elections. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate development projects worth thousands of crores.

PCB threatens KKR pacer for choosing IPL over PSL

Pakistan Cricket Board is reportedly considering legal action against Zimbabwe's Blessing Muzarabani. He opted to play for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL instead of fulfilling his contract with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League. This move, driven by IPL's lucrative opportunities, has angered the PCB, who aim to protect the integrity of their league contracts.

'Lines Of Legacy': KKR Unveils New Jersey Ahead Of IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders: Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have unveiled their new jersey ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, designed in the theme of Lines of Legacy. At the heart of the design are the defining moments that have shaped KKRs journey over the years. From the unforgettable opening night when Brendon McCullum smashed 158* back in 2008, to Rinku Singhs five sixes in the final over, KKR have produced many such moments that have become part of IPL folklore. Each iconic moment forms a line in the franchises star-studded story, and when these lines come together, they create the initials (K) (K) (R) in the style of abstract linear art. This season, those lines are not just remembered - they are woven into the jersey itself, allowing fans to wear a piece of the teams story, KKR said in a statement. Speaking on the jersey reveal, Venky Mysore, Chief Executive Officer, Knight Riders Sports, said, The Lines of Legacy captures the essence of KKR's storied history and celebrates the journey of the team over the years. Each line represents a pivotal moment of brilliance, reflecting the energy and spirit that weaves together to form our identity. We are proud of this legacy that we have built and want to carry it into the upcoming season while creating more memories for our fans to cherish. As per the first 20-match schedule released by the BCCI, Kolkata Knight Riders will start their campaign in an away game against the five-time champions Mumbai Indians to be played at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29. Their first home game is against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 2. The iconic Eden Gardens can be expected to be painted purple with tons of fans pouring in with their jerseys to show their support. As per the first 20-match schedule released by the BCCI, Kolkata Knight Riders will start their campaign in an away game against the five-time champions Mumbai Indians to be played at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR have strengthened their squad during the IPL 2026 auction. The team secured marquee players including Cameron Green, Matheesha Pathirana, and Finn Allen, while also signing West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell to fill the gap left by Andre Russell. Article Source: IANS

KKR unveil new jersey ahead of IPL 2026 season

Kolkata Knight Riders unveiled their IPL 2026 jersey, themed 'Lines of Legacy,' inspired by iconic franchise moments. The design weaves these defining memories into abstract linear art forming the team's initials. KKR begins their campaign against Mumbai Indians on March 29 and will feature new signings like Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana.

Sunidhi Chauhan reschedules Kolkata concert owing to throat infection

Singer Sunidhi Chauhan has postponed her March 14 Kolkata concert to March 25 after suffering a severe throat infection. The announcement comes days after she broke down on stage during a performance in Lucknow

Embarrassed Pak Threaten Legal Action As Zimbabwe Star Leaves Them For IPL

Pakistan Cricket Board is reportedly planning legal action against Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani for withdrawing from PSL to join IPL's Kolkata Knight Riders.

Dhoni Carried Responsibilities For Years, Time To Pass On The Baton To Youngsters: Irfan Pathan

Chennai Super Kings: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the upcoming generation of players at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a valuable opportunity to grow by observing and learning from the experience of veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni. With the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaching, Dhonis continued presence in the CSK setup remains one of the biggest talking points. Pathan pointed out that while the franchise is clearly transitioning towards a younger core, the former skippers influence in the dressing room could prove crucial in guiding the next generation of leaders. Highlighting the veterans preparation and fitness ahead of the season, Pathan said Dhoni appears ready to once again contribute both on and off the field. As soon as the IPL comes around, we start seeing Mahendra Singh Dhoni again, which means he is fully prepared for it, and he is looking very fit as well, he told JioStar. CSK, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, have gradually begun refreshing their squad while maintaining their traditional emphasis on experienced leadership. With players like Ruturaj Gaikwad stepping into leadership roles and emerging talents such as Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube expected to play prominent roles, the franchise appears to be balancing continuity with transition. We have seen him take responsibility for a number of years now, but I think this is the time for the baton to pass on to the likes of Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is a young captain as well. CSK's ideology has changed. It will be key for the youngsters to learn from MS Dhoni's experience, and for him to take the players ahead alongside him. It is a very exciting team on paper. In terms of six-hitting ability and intent, I am really looking forward to seeing the fearlessness from this young CSK side, Pathan added. Shifting his focus to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Pathan also weighed in on developments concerning the franchise, particularly the challenges surrounding the availability of their fast-bowling resources ahead of the season. The former pacer suggested that squad balance and injury concerns could influence selection decisions, especially regarding overseas players and the wicketkeeper slot. Choosing one between Seifert and Finn Allen will be a good headache, but the biggest issue for KKR and the think tank after the auction would be the availability of their fast bowlers. They would be worried about Pathirana's injury. Harshit Rana is also a big miss. But looking at the schedule, KKR will feel a little relieved as they will be playing three out of their four games at home. Shifting his focus to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Pathan also weighed in on developments concerning the franchise, particularly the challenges surrounding the availability of their fast-bowling resources ahead of the season. The former pacer suggested that squad balance and injury concerns could influence selection decisions, especially regarding overseas players and the wicketkeeper slot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKRs home venue, Eden Gardens, has historically provided them with a strategic advantage, and Pathan believes the schedule could help the franchise manage its squad concerns more effectively in the early stages of the tournament. Article Source: IANS

Breaking News Live Updates: PM Modi to visit poll-bound states of Assam and Bengal; inaugurate development projects worth Rs 18,680 cr in Kolkata

KKR rope in Zimbabwes Blessing Muzarabani

Kolkata, March 13: Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday announced the signing of lanky Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani ahead of the Indian Premier League season, with the fast bowler pulling out of the Pakistan Super League, which will run concurrently. The right-arm pacer Muzarabani was among the prominent bowlers in the recently-concluded T20 World []

ParivartanYatrato end with PMs rally in Kolkata today, campaign a huge success:BJP

The 5000-kmyatrahas touched 237 Assembly constituencies,

Huge blow! Harshit Rana ruled out of IPL 2026; KKR yet to decide replacement

All-rounder Harshit Rana has been ruled out of the upcoming Indian Premier League season due to an injury sustained during a warm-up fixture. Kolkata Knight Riders are currently deliberating on a replacement for the injured player. This news follows KKR's earlier signing of Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for the 2026 season.

Blessing Muzarabani , IPL 2026

(Blessing Muzarabani (PSL) (Islamabad United) (KKR) 2026 (13 ) 17 9.2 , 26 , , 11 , , A new Blessing in Purple & Gold pic.twitter.com/p31V3LsGfm KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 13, 2026 , ' ' , , Also Read: Live Cricket Score -20 8 6 13 , 4

IPL 2026: KKR Sign Zimbabwe Pacer Blessing Muzarabani

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders have signed Blessing Muzarabani for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026. The 6 ft 8 right-arm quick has emerged as one of Zimbabwes leading pace bowlers in the shortest format, known for his steep bounce and ability to strike in key phases of the innings. Muzarabani brings significant T20 experience, having claimed over 90 wickets in more than 80 T20 Internationals at an average of around 21, with best figures of 3/8, the franchise said in a release. He is scheduled to arrive in Kolkata on March 17. His pace and consistency across global leagues and international cricket add further depth to KKRs pace attack heading into the season. Muzarabani arrives after a strong showing in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, where he was the leading wicket-taker for the Zimbabwe national team, claiming 13 wicketsthe fourth-highest in the tournament overall. The tall fast bowler played a crucial role during the Sri Lanka leg of the competition, achieving match-winning performances against Australia and Sri Lanka. The 6-foot-8 pacer previously joined Islamabad United as a replacement for Shamar Joseph in the Pakistan Super League 2026 season. However, he has now withdrawn from that tournament to take this IPL opportunity. Muzarabani's experience in subcontinental conditions and his recent form could be valuable for the three-time IPL champions. He was part of the title-winning squad for Royal Challengers Bengaluru last season, although he did not play any matches during that campaign. Earlier, KKR released Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has been from their IPL squad following instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to do so. The call was taken amid excessive controversy and debate surrounding the players participation in the cash-rich event. The decision was made following reports of violence against members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh in December. Additionally, critics had voiced their disapproval of Rahman's involvement in the IPL. Rahman drew significant attention after KKR acquired him for a record Rs 9.20 crore at the December mini-auction, making him the highest-paid Bangladeshi cricketer in IPL history. He was purchased from a starting bid of Rs 2 crore amid a fierce bidding war between the Chennai Super Kings and the Delhi Capitals. The decision was made following reports of violence against members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh in December. Additionally, critics had voiced their disapproval of Rahman's involvement in the IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He represented DC in IPL 2025 after being named as Jake Fraser-McGurks injury replacement. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: KKR pull off big move, rope in T20 World Cup star to boost pace attack

Kolkata Knight Riders have signed Zimbabwe's towering fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for IPL 2026. Muzarabani, known for his steep bounce and wicket-taking ability, brings significant T20 experience, having taken over 90 wickets in international T20s. He was also a top performer in the recent T20 World Cup, claiming 13 wickets.

KKR allrounder Ramandeep Singh hails coach pair ahead of IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders hard-hitter Ramandeep Singh has found fresh inspiration in the dugout ahead of IPL 2026, with the arrival of Shane Watson and Andre Russell as Assistant Coach and Power Coach respectively.

Who next after Suryakumar Yadav? IPL 2026 should be an audition for next T20I captain

Two years ago, Gautam Gambhir was appointed Team India's coach after he mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. With the next T20 extravaganza cycle underway, IPL 2026 should be the audition for India's next T20I captain. The selectors must keep their eyes open because choosing the right man for the captaincy will not be easy.

Spring and its connect with the Indian classical music

Sitarist Sahana Banerjee and vocalist Supriyo Dutta presented raags that celebrate Basant at a concert in Kolkata.

Dakshineswar Temple Replica Takes Centre Stage At PM Modi's Kolkata Rally

For the first time, the BJP is set to drop its traditional backdrop featuring the party symbol and photographs of the Prime Minister, National President, and State President from a political rally stage in West Bengal.

Swiggy Launches the Third Edition of the Swiggy Restaurant Awards: Celebrates Culinary Excellence Across India

The awards will celebrate flavor champions from over 11,000 brands across 160+ cities 600 Swiggy Cash plus exclusive coupons Swiggy (Swiggy Ltd, NSE: SWIGGY / BSE: 544285), Indias pioneering on-demand convenience platform, today announced the third season of Swiggy Restaurant Awards. The annual awards have been designed to recognize and celebrate the best restaurants across India. Voting for the awards will be open till March 27, 2026, on the Swiggy app. The winners will be determined solely via public voting and will be announced on March 28, 2026. This years edition is bigger than ever, expanding its footprint to 160+ cities, with 11000, nominated brands competing across a diverse set of categories. Swiggy Rx Awards Third Edition Swiggy Restaurant Awards 2026 aims to honor the restaurants and chefs who continue to raise the bar for culinary excellence across the country. From iconic neighborhood favorites to trending global cuisine hotspots, the awards celebrate those who have defined Indias food landscape over the past year. Some of the key award categories include popular core categories like Best in North Indian Best in Biryani Best in Pizza In addition to this, it will include Spotlight categories like Best Local Gems Best Newcomers Best in Global Flavours (Korean, Mexican, Japanese) Best Regional Favourites (including Best in Andhra, Best in Goan cuisine, Best in Assamese cuisine and more) The Swiggy Restaurant Awards 2026 will also see the launch of a number of new and trending categories including Best in Coffee & Tea (including trending beverages like Boba and Matcha) Best in Trending Dish Families (Mandi, Pasta, Arabic cuisine) Best EatRight Brands Best Corporate / DeskEats Brands Some of the participating cities for the Swiggy Restaurant Awards 2026 include Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Coimbatore, Goa, Indore, Jaipur, Lucknow, Ranchi, Varanasi, Amritsar, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Guwahati, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Mysore, Nagpur, Patna, Pondicherry, Surat, Udaipur, Vijayawada, Agartala, Ahmedabad and many more. Adding to the excitement, customers can Vote & Win up to INR 600 Swiggy Cash plus exclusive coupons. Users can also share their voting link with friends and earn additional rewards, unlocking up to INR 600 in Swiggy Cash through participation. Swiggy Restaurant Awards 2026 is more than just an awards initiative its a grand tribute to Indias rich and evolving food culture. By voting and sharing, users play a key role in recognising and honouring the best in the business while earning exciting rewards along the way. www.swiggy.com/corporate .

Gold prices today: How much 18K, 22K and 24K gold cost in your city? Check prices for Delhi, Kolkata & more

Gold prices saw a significant dip on Friday, with futures trade closing at Rs 1.59 lakh per 10 grams. This decline was influenced by weaker international trends and a stronger US dollar. Analysts highlight the strengthening dollar as a key pressure point, while geopolitical risks and economic signals remain under close observation by traders.

Amazon India adds route connecting Guwahati, Kolkata to air cargo service to serve NE areas

NEW DELHI, Mar 13: In a move to bolster its services in the Northeast, Amazon India has added a new route connecting Guwahati and Kolkata to its dedicated air cargo fleet, Amazon Air. Launched in 2023, the freighter service initially served Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The expansion, expected to speed up shipments by 5x, will support deliveries across all seven sister states Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura the company said in a statement. [] The post Amazon India adds route connecting Guwahati, Kolkata to air cargo service to serve NE areas appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Green Frontier Capitals maiden fund; How Megha Sarayan built Modge

Green Frontier Capital is one of the few VC firms that are exclusively focused on Indias climate-tech landscape. Kolkata-based Modge, coined from mood and indulge, is a dessert brand by Megha Sarayan, which positions itself as a mood-based craving solution.

WB BJP leaders meet PM ahead of mega Brigade Rally in Kolkata

The meeting comes 48 hours before the Prime Minister is scheduled to address a mega rally at Kolkatas Brigade Parade Grounds on Saturday. According to sources in the party, the first list of BJP candidates contesting Assembly polls is likely to be announced in the next few days

Rains likely in Kolkata, south Bengal till Tuesday

The Regional Meteorological Centre at Alipore has forecast scattered showers in Kolkata and several south Bengal districts including Howrah, Hooghly, Purulia, Bankura and Murshidabad till Tuesday, with rain alerts issued for 12 districts

IPL 2026: Having Watson, Russell As Coaches Is A Blessing, Says KKR All-rounder Ramandeep

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) seam-bowling all-rounder Ramandeep Singh said working under Shane Watson and Andre Russell in the franchises coaching setup for IPL 2026 is a blessing, adding that he wants to soak in as many lessons as possible from the legendary all-rounders. Watson has joined KKR as assistant coach while Russell has taken on the role of power coach. Having them in the dugout is a blessing. I want to make the most of it and absorb as much as I can from them. I also hope I can emulate their success in the crucial, match-defining moments for the team, said Ramandeep in a statement issued by the franchise on Thursday. Ramandeep, 28, joined KKR in 2024 and was part of the side that lifted their third IPL trophy. Since then, he has scored 172 runs at a strike rate of 167.9 and taken six wickets. He also impressed in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, hitting 209 runs at a strike rate of 195 and claiming nine wickets in 10 matches for his state Punjab. My approach for this year is very situation-oriented. I am working on my understanding of potential scenarios every time I step in to bat, I am also trying to understand how the pitch is evolving and playing the right shots accordingly, he added. Ramandeep, who made two T20I appearances for India in 2024, added that he was keen to contribute with the ball in the season. If given the opportunity, I want to deliver as a bowler too, because I believe I have the capability to be an all-rounder. I am going to give my best on the field, and I am hopeful the results will follow, he said. My approach for this year is very situation-oriented. I am working on my understanding of potential scenarios every time I step in to bat, I am also trying to understand how the pitch is evolving and playing the right shots accordingly, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is something I have been working on over the past year. I want to play the situation, not just entertain. My goal is to be a match-winner, and for that, it does not matter what people are saying on social media or elsewhere. My only focus is on improving my skills every day. Article Source: IANS

T20 WC: SA, WI finally leave India after travel chaos amid West Asia conflict

South African and West Indies cricket contingents have finally left India after days of travel chaos. Airspace closures in West Asia disrupted flights, stranding players in Kolkata post-T20 World Cup. The ICC confirmed the safe departure of the remaining 29 South Africans and 16 West Indians, concluding a complex logistical operation amidst challenging global travel conditions.

Windies Player Javon Searles, Two Officials Suspended By ICC Under Anti-corruption Codes

The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken strict action on West Indies fast-bowling all-rounder Javon Searles, Titans team owner Chitranjan Rathod and team official Griffith following the breach of the anti-corruption codes of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the ICC. All three individuals face charges in relation to the Bim10 Tournament 2023/24, which falls under the jurisdiction of the CWI Anti-Corruption Code. In addition, Griffith faces one charge relating to International Matches that fall under the jurisdiction of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code, the ICC said in a statement. The ICC added that the trio has been provisionally suspended from all cricket with immediate effect. However, the governing body has also given 14 days starting from March 11, 2026, to respond to the charges. Rathod faces three charges under the CWI Code, Searles faces four charges under the CWI Code, while team official Griffith faces four charges under the CWI Code and one charge under the ICC Code. All three have been charged with the following three offences- Breach of Article 2.1.1 of the CWI Code Fixing, contriving to fix or otherwise influencing improperly, or being a party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive in any way or otherwise influence improperly, the result, progress, conduct or other aspect of matches in the Bim10 tournament in 2023/24 (or attempting to do so). Breach of Article 2.1.4 of the CWI Code Soliciting, instructing, encouraging or facilitating Players and/or Player Support Personnel to commit offences under the CWI Code. Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the CWI Code Failing or refusing to cooperate with a reasonable investigation carried out by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (or his/her designee) in relation to possible offences under the CWI Code. Searles and Giffith have also been charged with Breach of Article 2.4.2 of the CWI Code failing to disclose to Cricket West Indies details of any approaches or invitations to engage in conduct that would amount to a breach of the CWI Code. Breach of Article 2.4.4 of the CWI Code Failing or refusing to cooperate with a reasonable investigation carried out by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (or his/her designee) in relation to possible offences under the CWI Code. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Searles has represented the West Indies Under-19s and played for Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL from 2014-19. He also featured in the IPL for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2018. Article Source: IANS

R N Ravi takes oath as 22nd governor of West Bengal

He was administered the oath by Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court, Sujoy Paul, in the presence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, senior Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and Left Front chairman Biman Bose.

Petrol, Diesel Price Today (March 12): Crude oil price crosses $100, check how much you have to pay for fuel in Delhi, Mumbai and other cities

Petrol, Diesel Price March 12: There has been no change in the prices of petrol and diesel on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata and other cities. This comes despite crude Brent jumping $100 per barrel amid the ongoing escalating tensions in the Middle East region. The government has said the fuel prices would remain stable for now.

Kolkata weather today: IMD predicts rainfall, thunderstorms for 'City of Joy' on March 12. Check forecast for full week

IMD Kolkata rain prediction: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Kolkata might receive light showers along with thunderstorms on March 11 and 12. The weather in Kolkata is expected to remain cloudy for the next few days, according to the weather department. Other parts of Bengal such as Purulia, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Malda are also likely to receive showers.

LPG Gas price today: How much does a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder now cost in your city amid fuel crisis? Check rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and more

LPG shortage in India: Many cities and restaurants in India are facing shortage of LPG gas cylinders due to the escalating tensions in the West Asia region. Long queues have been seen outside gas distribution centres in Delhi, Noida, Lucknow and other places amid panic buying. In Delhi, a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder costs Rs 913 and in Patna the cost is Rs 942.50.

Weather alone can influence air pollution in cities like Delhi, Patna, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru by up to 40%: Study

The follow-on decision in 2001 Eden Test was one of my poorest: John Buchanan

Former Australia coach admits that the emotions got the better of him in the Kolkata match; feels Indian cricket, basking in the T20 World Cup glory, is heading in the right direction

From Being On Sidelines To Becoming Player Of The Tournament: Samson's WC Run Was Worth The Wait

T20 World Cup: Sanju Samson began the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup relegated to the bench for all but a single league match against Namibia in New Delhi. Many feared the tournament would see Samson as an unused member again, a fate he faced during the victorious 2024 campaign. When it seemed another chapter of unfulfilled potential would be written for Samson, a dramatic turn saw him redrafted during the Super Eights clash against Zimbabwe. From there, Samson did more than just step into the light - he seized the stage to become the lead actor in Indias march to a third T20 World Cup title. In a breathtaking time from March 1-8, Samson rewrote his own legacy. It began with an unforgettable, unbeaten 97 in a high-pressure encounter against the West Indies in Kolkata, followed by two sublime, identical knocks of 89 in the semi-final and final against England and New Zealand. By the time India had the trophy in their hands, Samson had amassed 321 runs across just five innings at a blistering strike rate of 199 to become the Player of the Tournament. His resurgence was punctuated by a record-breaking 24 sixes - the most ever by a batter in a single edition of the tournament. For a player who has carried the heavy burden of inconsistent runs and unfulfilled potential, the crowning moment felt richly deserving. While Indias clinical 96-run demolition of New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium will be remembered as an unprecedented historical triumph, the enduring image of the 2026 campaign will be Samson finally shining on a grand stage - runs flowing as freely as the fireworks that illuminated the Ahmedabad sky on March 8. Biju George first saw Samson bat as an 11-year-old coming to practice at the Medical College Ground in Thiruvananthapuram, nearly 25km from his home in Vizhinjam. He remembers the exact moment Samson was called up for India for their tour of England in 2014. When that happened, I can still imagine seeing him with his kit bag on his shoulder, walking down the ground. He came close and hugged me and said, Sir, we have done that, recalled George in an exclusive conversation with IANS. Now, over 11 years later, George remained awake in the hours after the final, riding the wave of admiration for Samson. I am so happy for Sanju. He has seen the lows in life, now he is seeing the highs, and I am very happy for him. I hope the highs stay a little longer than the lows. People now absolutely look at him in a different light. If I may say so, he has done like what Kohli and Rohit have done for India in the World Cup and probably Dhoni has done the same for India in the World Cup, albeit in a lesser number of innings. So all credit to Sanju for how he has come through. Samsons path to this moment came via a recall triggered by Indias urge to break from left-handed batting monotony at the top order. See, every class player needs just one break, one good break. He got that break and he just took it off from there. If you look at one more angle to this, the Zimbabwe, West Indies, England and New Zealand bowlers, he has faced them a lot in the IPL. So he knew what they were coming through and that was one good thing for him, added George. To watch Samson bat is a purists joy. At his best, he simply stands with his famous stillness. Zubin Bharucha, the former Mumbai batter who has mentored and coached Samson since he was 17, explains why that purity is structural. There are many who have played this game and who strike the ball beautifully. Eventually you only get four or six. But the purists can start categorising levels of purity, which stem from your bat swing and the way the ball leaves the bat. The longer and higher the backlift the more the time, purer the strike, but equally more the complications, given it has a longer journey to the ball. His backlift is probably one of the higher ones around world cricket where the toe of the bat often gets past his head. This is unique to each individual and termed as his batting DNA. Hence when the bat comes down from that long winded coil, the ball leaves the bat with a different sound and that's the effortlessness you see in his strokeplay. Very few in the world possess this and it's completely unique to him, Bharucha told IANS. This purity wasnt always evident. Ahead of the World Cup, Samson made only 46 runs in five innings against New Zealand. An exaggerated trigger movement and being too deep in the crease was hampering him, but with help from the Indian coaching staff to stabilize his base, Samson found his mojo. Now he stopped doing that and he is very good now, as he has come back to it. See, for everybody, you can't say that as a cricketer, you adjust technique immediately. What you can say is, technique evolves over the years through experience, facing different bowlers, playing on different pitches, and thats how it evolves. He has now got his Zen and mojo - like, this is what I want to be. Once the base is strong, he has got a very clear bat path with a high back-lift and a flourishing follow-through. So with the still base, all he can do is, let the hands do all the work. Despite his talent, the challenge was often the psychological toll of being doubted. Those doubts evaporated when Samson knelt and made a cross to thank the Almighty after hitting his unbeaten 97 in Kolkata. Everyone has their own unique journey, but its the wait and the struggle that makes it extra special. So many ups and downs through any journey but what was unique was that at every juncture, his sheer undiluted talent helped supersede all obstacles. It was all mental, technically he had scored three centuries and in some of the most difficult conditions in SA when the next best player score was thirty odd. After those kind of innings for him to still have everyone doubt his position became his mental challenge. It would be for anyone. In Kerala, Samson occupies a space in the popular imagination that goes beyond statistics. George recalls how his household help - a passionate cricket follower - found the stress of lack of runs from Samsons bat being. She was telling my wife like in the week before Sanju was called for the matches after he had his failures initially, that I have so much tension in my house. First of all, my child is sick. My house has an EMI pending. All this is fine, but why doesn't Sanju make runs? Please ask him about this. She was like, I can handle all of that tensions in life. But why isn't he, our kid, making runs? That is the connect he has with the Kerala audience and its not just Kerala, everybody loves him. He is like your younger brother every family will want in their family. He is the guy who every girl wants to romance. Every mother wants to have a person like him as their son. Before the tournament, Samson prepared by batting for long hours every day on grounds made available by the Kerala Cricket Association. Hats off especially to the secretary, Mr. Vinod S Kumar, because he gave the go ahead for the use of those three first class grounds, even with the use of lights so that he could bat under lights, said George. Bowlers came in shifts, as Bharucha oversaw the technical side of those sessions. Any camp at this stage of his career is merely to ensure things are all in place technically and we have worked on high variability. Like, have we practiced every aspect we imagine might be encountered inside the game. An early swinging ball or persistent short balls or spinners bowling different angles. Once each box had been ticked he was ready to go. A support structure involving his wife Charulatha Remesh, friend Iqlas Naha, and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar helped Samson keep his focus. He had reached out to the Master batter, which was really good. It still goes on to show that the legends of Indian cricket, they are still helping the current generation and that is called legacy like what do you leave behind? George also revealed that India head coach Gautam Gambhir's admiration for Samson stretches back to being at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). People always speak about Rajasthan Royals giving the start for Sanju. But he started his IPL career with KKR. People always speak about RR giving the start for Sanju. But he started his IPL career with KKR. That's why when he hit the 97 not out against the West Indies, I was thinking how fitting it is - the city where he started his IPL career is the place where he began his turnaround. He was given an academy contract by KKR, but Venky Mysore came in and he was instrumental in making sure that he was given an IPL contract, especially when Gautam Gambhir was leading. Nobody knows Gautam Gambhir was always a big fan and supporter of Sanju. In 2013/14 when I was working with KKR, Gautam bhai always used to ask, What is Sanju doing? Make sure he doesn't fail and take care of him. He used to tell me every single time. George, who works as talent scouting head for KKR, has not called Samson since the final. He is waiting, deliberately, for the noise to settle. I am still in that euphoria. I don't know whether it's a dream or reality, but it's really good for him. I hope he does well in the IPL too, where he will play for a new team (Chennai Super Kings) and on a new wicket. Chennais wicket has also changed. It has become a flatter wicket. It will be good for him. I didn't try to reach out because I wanted everything for him to sink in. I will talk to him only after the IPL. For Bharucha, the question of whether this moment represents a new beginning for Samson is not an easy one to answer, though he did feel a potential chance of captaining India could come. This is a difficult question to answer not from the perspective of whether it's the beginning because it is in many ways the beginning and if he wants, he can go win India another World Cup or even potentially captain India given his unique leadership qualities. But because he is such a unique personality with such wide and varied interests in life beyond cricket, where he wants to solve the problems of the world and certainly his beloved Kerala. He is in a unique and privileged position and while everyone would want to continue watching that silken and effortless flow regaling cricket audiences around the world, Sanju the individual might have other desires. He is such a unique individual. Maybe he can traverse both worlds and keep everyone happy, but only time will tell what will make Sanju happy. But because he is such a unique personality with such wide and varied interests in life beyond cricket, where he wants to solve the problems of the world and certainly his beloved Kerala. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jemi (Jemimah Rodrigues) and Sanju are probably the two cricketers who are closest to my heart. Jemi is my daughter. For Sanju, I hope he carries this on for a long, long time in the same way, concluded George. Article Source: IANS

Gujarat Titans Name Former India Keeper Vijay Dahiya As Assistant Coach

Indian Premier League: Gujarat Titans on Wednesday announced the appointment of former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya as an Assistant Coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, further strengthening the franchises coaching setup. A respected figure in Indian cricket, Dahiya represented the country in 19 ODIs and two Tests and enjoyed a successful domestic career with Delhi before transitioning into coaching. He later guided Delhi to the Ranji Trophy title in the 200708 season and has since built a strong coaching portfolio across domestic and IPL teams. His appointment follows the recent addition of former Australia batting legend Matthew Hayden as Batting Coach, further bolstering the Titans coaching group ahead of the upcoming IPL season. Since making their debut in 2022, Gujarat Titans have emerged as one of the most consistent teams in the IPL, reaching the playoffs in three of their first four seasons and winning the title in their inaugural campaign. With a strengthened coaching structure in place, the former champions will look to build on their strong track record as preparations for IPL 2026 gather momentum. The defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. A total of 20 matches will be played across 10 venues: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. The defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Following the opening encounter on Saturday, Mumbai Indians will take on Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Article Source: IANS

KKR IPL 2026 Schedule: Kolkata Knight Riders begin campaign vs MI on March 29; check full fixtures, match dates and venue

Kolkata Knight Riders Indian Premier League 2026 Full Schedule: As fans gear up for an electrifying IPL 2026 season, the Kolkata Knight Riders will launch their journey with a much-anticipated clash versus the Mumbai Indians on March 29. Following this high-stakes opener, the team will host a trio of home matches at Eden Gardens, taking on the Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and the Lucknow Super Giants.

MI IPL 2026 Schedule: Mumbai Indians begin campaign vs KKR on March 29; check full fixtures, match dates, time and venue

Mumbai Indians Indian Premier League 2026 Full Schedule: The Indian Premier League 2026 fixtures are released. Mumbai Indians will start their season on March 29 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium. The tournament's opening phase runs from March 28 to April 12. Mumbai Indians will also face Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their initial matches.

RCB To Host Sunrisers Hyderabad In Opener As IPL 2026 To Commence On March 28

TATA Indian Premier League: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the schedule for the first phase of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026. As three states are scheduled to undergo State Assembly elections during this period, the full schedule of the tournament will be announced once the poll dates are announced, BCCI said in a statement. The 19th edition of the biggest T20 league on the globe will commence with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. A total of 20 matches will be played across 10 venues: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. During this period, the tournament will feature four double-headers, with the afternoon matches beginning at 03:30 PM IST and the evening matches commencing at 07:30 PM IST. Following the opening encounter on Saturday, Mumbai Indians will take on Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. The first double-header of the season will take place on April 4, 2026, when Delhi Capitals face Mumbai Indians in the afternoon match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, followed by Gujarat Titans taking on Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Rajasthan Royals will begin their home campaign in Guwahati, where they will host Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Punjab Kings (PBKS), meanwhile, will play their early home fixtures at the PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. The first double-header of the season will take place on April 4, 2026, when Delhi Capitals face Mumbai Indians in the afternoon match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, followed by Gujarat Titans taking on Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score BCCI also said that The matches scheduled in Bengaluru are subject to clearance from the Expert Committee constituted by the Government of Karnataka. The committee will conduct a meeting and inspection of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 13, 2026, during which a full-scale mock demonstration of match-day arrangements will be carried out to assess the stadiums preparedness for hosting IPL matches. Article Source: IANS

RCB To Host SRH In IPL 2026 Opener On March 28: Report

Indian Premier League: The first phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 will see defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the season opener at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, March 28, a report said. Five-time champions Mumbai Indians will start their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on March 29. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings will open their season against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. This matchup adds an early highlight to the schedule as two of the leagues most popular teams go head-to-head. According to a report by The Indian Express, the league has released the fixtures for the first 20 matches. The rest of the schedule is expected to be announced later. The opening phase promises several exciting contests as teams aim to gain early momentum in their quest for the playoffs. Last seasons runner ups, Punjab Kings, will begin their campaign against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur. Lucknow Super Giants will host Delhi Capitals in Lucknow on April 1. The first phase also includes several key matchups, such as Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Chennai Super Kings on April 5 in Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12 in Mumbai. According to a report by The Indian Express, the league has released the fixtures for the first 20 matches. The rest of the schedule is expected to be announced later. The opening phase promises several exciting contests as teams aim to gain early momentum in their quest for the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The schedule also features several high-profile matchups. Bengaluru will host Chennai on April 5, and Mumbai will welcome Bengaluru on April 12. The first phase schedule of the IPL 2026 will be announced on Wednesday at 7:00 PM IST on the Star Sports Network and JioHotstar. Article Source: IANS

Cycle Pure Agarbathi Joins Hands with Sitar Maestro Rishab Rikhiram Sharma's India Tour for Mental Wellness

Cycle Pure Agarbathi, worlds largest manufacturer of agarbathies and Indias most trusted heritage brand, has partnered with globally acclaimed sitar artist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma for his India tour. The special tour, Sitar for Mental Health by Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, will travel across major Indian cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kolkata. This collaboration will bring together the calming power of Indian classical music added with spiritual fragrance to create a soulful experience that nurtures healing and restores balance. As a Prayer Partner, Cycle Pure Agarbathi is supporting the initiative that brings together music and mindfulness to encourage conversations around mental wellness. With this collaboration, the brand will extend fragrance beyond temple traditions to modern-day mindfulness practices. By bringing together music and fragrance, the initiative offers audiences moments of reflection and calm in todays fast-paced digitalised world. As part of the association, Cycle Pure Agarbathi will curate unique experiential installations at each venue, including the ceremonial lighting of the Yagna Agarbathi before the concert begins. In addition, Cycle Pure Agarbathi is extending special recognition by inviting two music teachers with Gold Passes who work with mentally differently abled students. This initiative honors their dedication and provides them with an exclusive opportunity to experience the healing power of music, reinforcing the tours mission of combining art, wellness, and community impact. To further enrich the experience, Cycle Pure will also set up premium stalls at the venue, where participants can explore the brands finest fragrances and even customize their own agarbathi blends with scents they personally resonate with. The initiative also aligns with the growing conversation around mental health in India. Rishab Rikhiram Sharmas performances are designed as healing musical journeys, where the meditative resonance of the sitar encourages mindfulness, emotional release and mental clarity. Speaking about the collaboration, Arjun Ranga, Managing Director of Cycle Pure Agarbathi , said This collaboration beautifully reflects our commitment to nurturing spiritual and emotional well-being. For decades, our fragrances have been part of sacred rituals in Indian homes. Through this partnership with Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, we are extending that legacy into modern wellness experiences, where music, fragrance and mindfulness come together to promote inner peace . The multi-city concerts are scheduled to take place in: Date Day Venu 15th Mar Sunday District Arena, Bengaluru 20th Mar Friday Jio World Garden, Mumbai 22nd Mar Sunday Ilesieum Club, Pune 27th Mar Friday TBD - GMS / Novotel, Hyderabad 3rd Apr Sunday Nehru Stadium, Chennai 12th Apr Sunday Biswa Bangla Hall A, Kolkata About NRRS The Mysuru-based NRRS was founded by Shri N. Ranga Rao in 1948. A true visionary and philanthropist, Shri Ranga Rao created the ubiquitous Cycle Pure Agarbathi which has, today, become the largest selling incense stick brand in the world. From a home-grown enterprise, NR Group has evolved into a successfully run business conglomerate with an established presence in India and abroad. The Group has diversified into various business categories like functional air care products (Lia brand of room fresheners and car fresheners), wellness home fragrance products (IRIS) under Ripple Fragrances, floral extracts (NESSO), and Rangsons Technologies. Today, it is truly an Agarbathi to Aerospace conglomerate as it is also involved in making parts for defence helicopters. The organization has largely committed towards social responsibilities and fulfills them through its charity arm NR Foundation. www.nrgroup.co.in .

Bisleri International Announces Six-Year Strategic Partnership with Procam International for India's Marquee Marathons

Bisleri International today announced a landmark six-year strategic partnership with Procam International, becoming the Official Hydration Partner for four of theworlds most prestigious distance running events - the Tata Mumbai Marathon, Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru, and Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata. Bisleri International Announces Six-Year Strategic Partnership with Procam International for Indias Marquee Marathons Through this long-term association, Bisleri strengthens its position as the hydration partner of choice for Indias largest and most influential running platforms, supporting hundreds of thousands of participants across elite, amateur, and community categories. As part of the partnership, Bisleri will power the race-day experience with multiple hydration stations placed strategically across the course, ensuring seamless access to safe and reliable hydration for runners. The brand will have a strong on-ground presence through inflatable arches and integrated route branding. Limited-edition Bisleri bottles featuring elite runners will also be introduced to commemorate the events and celebrate sporting excellence. The brand will further amplify the association through engaging digital content campaigns, bringing race stories, athlete journeys, and behind-the-scenes moments to audiences nationwide. In line with its sustainability commitment, Bisleri will extend its Bisleri Greener Promise initiative across these events. This includes the installation of recycled plastic benches and dedicated waste collection bins at marathon venues, promoting responsible plastic usage and recycling awareness among participants and spectators alike. Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International , said, At Bisleri, we believe hydration is fundamental to performance whether in sport or in everyday life. Our long-term partnership with Procam International is a natural extension of our commitment to enable excellence at scale. These marquee marathons represent the very best of human endurance, community participation, and national pride. We are proud to power these moments over the next six years. Equally important is our responsibility towards sustainability. Through our Greener Promise initiatives at these events, we aim to demonstrate that large-scale sporting platforms can also be environmentally responsible . Speaking on the brands marketing and consumer engagement strategy, Mr. Tushar Malhotra, Director Sales and Marketing, Bisleri International , said, Bisleri has been championing hydration across India and Middle East's with a sports marketing portfolio covering more than 120+ associations. Our strategic six-year association with Procam International provides a powerful platform to connect with a highly engaged consumer base in India's largest participative sport spectacle ." With this association, Bisleri International not only reinforces its leadership in the hydration category but also aligns with Indias growing culture of fitness, community participation, and sustainable event execution. Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Anil Singh, Managing Director, Procam International , said, The Tata Mumbai Marathon, Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, TCS World 10K Bengaluru, and Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata are more than races they are movements that inspire healthier cities and stronger communities. Our association with Bisleri reflects a shared vision to accelerate the growth of running in India and strengthen its ecosystem. Hydration is fundamental to performance, and this partnership enables us to set new benchmarks in race-day excellence and environmental responsibility. Together, over the next six years, we will enhance the runner experience at scale while shaping a more sustainable and future-ready distance running ecosystem for India . About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water. Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. www.bisleri.com . About Procam International Since its inception in 1988, Procam International has been the driving force behind the growth and development of sports management in India. Founded by the dynamic Singh brothers Anil and Vivek, Procam is India's premier sports management company and is involved in live events, sports consultancy, and live television production. With astute planning and exemplary execution, Procam has a track record of conceptualising and promoting over 100 international events, across the disciplines of Powerboat Racing, Cricket, Football, Tennis, Distance Running, Squash, WWE, Horse Racing, Volleyball, among others. These events have elicited participation of the highest calibre of athletes and huge public interest and attendance. www.procam.in .

Girls football match in Kolkata becomes reminder of struggles forwomen claiming space in sports

Players and organisers point to a lack of playground access and social resistance

ICC Sympathises With Players' Frustration, Says Safety Behind Delayed Departures

The ICC booked separate commercial flights for the stranded West Indies and South Africa teams after their charter flight scheduled to take off from Kolkata was cancelled due to logistical issue

Skye Air Mobility raises $9 million in Series B to expand drone delivery network

With the new investment, the company intends to expand its drone delivery operations beyond Delhi-NCR into major cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Kolkata as demand for drone logistics continues to grow rapidly in India.

I was born in Punjab, but made in Kolkata: Harbhajan on historic 2001 Eden Test

Recounting a historic Test, Harbhajan Singh details his pivotal role in India's victory against Australia. He describes dismissing key batsmen like Matthew Hayden, Ricky Ponting, and Adam Gilchrist, leading to his career-defining hat-trick. The spinner highlights VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid's monumental partnership and his own crucial wickets, including the controversial dismissal of Glenn McGrath, ultimately changing his life forever.

ICC Rejects Bias Claims Amid Logostical Crisis, Cites Gulf Conflict For Flight Delays

The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a formal response to the logistical crisis that has left few teams stranded in India following the conclusion of their 2026 T20 World Cup campaigns. The ICC aimed at quelling rising frustrations among players and addressing allegations of preferential treatment, the governing body cited the ongoing crisis across the Gulf region as the sole cause for the travel delays. Some of the teams remained stuck in India after the T20 World Cup campaign due to ongoing airspace restrictions in the wake of the conflict in the Middle East and West Asia. We understand that players, coaches, support staff and their families who have completed their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns are anxious to return home. That they have not yet been able to do so is a source of genuine frustration, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) shares that frustration. The delay is the direct result of the ongoing crisis across the Gulf region, which has caused widespread and continuing disruption to international air travel, including airspace closures, missile warnings, re-routing constraints, as well as the cancellation and rescheduling of both commercial and charter flights at short notice. These are conditions entirely outside the ICC's control, and they have made each travel solution significantly more complex and time-consuming than under normal circumstances. The ICC has been engaged continuously with airlines, charter operators, airport authorities, ground handlers, and government stakeholders across multiple jurisdictions to secure safe homeward travel for all affected groups as quickly as possible. That work remains ongoing, ICC said in a media release. Among affected teams are the West Indies and the South Africa. The West Indies played their final match of the tournament on March 1 but are still in India, while South Africa have also been unable to leave after their semifinal defeat to New Zealand on March 4. On current arrangements, the South Africa contingent will begin departing for South Africa tonight, with all members expected to have departed within the next 36 hours. Of the West Indies contingent, nine members are already travelling to the Caribbean, while the remaining 16 are booked on flights departing India within the next 24 hours. We will provide updates on further departures as confirmed arrangements are in place, it added. However, questions were raised after England were able to get back to the UK last Saturday after their semifinal exit, using a charter flight from Mumbai even as the West Indies remained stranded in Kolkata for over a week after their Super 8 exit. South Africa too remain in India ahead of a proposed travel plan on Tuesday. The ICC rejects any suggestion that these decisions have been driven by anything other than safety, feasibility and welfare. Suggestions otherwise across a variety of media platforms from people uninformed of the situation are as unhelpful as they are incorrect. There is no link between arrangements made in the cases of South Africa and the West Indies and those made previously for England or any other nation, which arose from separate circumstances, routing options and different travel conditions, the ICC clarify. The ICC rejects any suggestion that these decisions have been driven by anything other than safety, feasibility and welfare. Suggestions otherwise across a variety of media platforms from people uninformed of the situation are as unhelpful as they are incorrect. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We thank all players, management, boards and partners for their continued patience and cooperation in an exceptionally difficult situation. Our teams are working around the clock and remain in constant contact with team managers as circumstances continue to develop. We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. Article Source: IANS

Newly appointed Bengal Governor R N Ravi to be sworn in on Thursday

Kolkata: Newly appointed West Bengal Governor R N Ravi is likely to arrive here on Wednesday, March 11, evening, a day before the scheduled swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan, an official said. Ravi was, on March 5, appointed as the new governor of West Bengal, replacing C V Ananda Bose, who resigned on that day. 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 .

Abhishek Banerjee hails SC order on voter list as democratic victory

Kolkata: Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday, March 10, said the intervention of the Supreme Court in the SIR exercise was a victory for democracy and the people of Bengal, while launching a sharp attack on the Election Commission and the BJP over the alleged deletion of voters names. Addressing a gathering 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 .

China Eastern Airlines to Restart Kolkata-Kunming Flight From April 18

The flights on the route will operate six times weekly, featuring both Business and Economy Class cabins, the company said on Tuesday.

Amiya Ranjan Bandyopadhyay turns 100: Marks the historic moment with a khayal rendition

At a celebration organised by his disciples in Kolkata, the audience was left awe-struck by the energy and aesthetics of his singing.

ICC Books Individual Commercial Flights For WI, SA Players After Charter Flight Cancellation

The two teams that played their final games in Kolkata (West Indies in Super 8s on March 1 and South Africa on March 4 in semi-final) have not been able to fly out due to the disruption that has been caused by International airspace restrictions across parts of West Asia following American and Israeli strikes on Iran

No eligible voters name to be removed; Bengal polls to be free, peaceful: CEC

KOLKATA: Asserting that no eligible voters name would be removed from the electoral rolls in West Bengal, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Tuesday said the ECs priority was to ensure free, fair and peaceful polls in the state as it stepped up preparations for the upcoming assembly elections, amid a charged political atmosphere. Addressing []

iKure Hosts Global Healthcare Workshop in Kolkata, Announces Japan Partnership and Healthcare Living Lab

Global healthcare leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from nine countries convened in Kolkata for the International Workshop 2026 on the Future of Healthcare Systems, organised by iKure Techsoft Pvt. Ltd. The two-day dialogue brought together experts from healthcare delivery, academia, technology, financing, and public health ecosystems to explore how health systems must evolve to address rising disease burdens and improve access to care. The workshop focused on practical pathways for strengthening healthcare systems, including non-communicable disease management, healthcare financing and outpatient access, med-tech innovation, resilient supply chains, and responsible data governance in digital health ecosystems. iKure Global Healthcare workshop A key highlight of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between iKure and Japan-based METORI Inc. to advance technology-enabled eye screening and prevention of avoidable blindness in India. The collaboration will integrate portable ophthalmic diagnostic technologies with iKures network of iCHAs (iKure Community Health Activists)digitally enabled community health workers who support screening, early diagnosis, and referral services across underserved populations. Through this partnership, early detection programs will support the identification of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and other vision-threatening disorders, enabling timely treatment and reducing preventable vision loss. Another major announcement during the workshop was the digital launch of the Healthcare Living Lab, a district-scale multi-collaborative platform designed to accelerate the transition of healthcare solutions from proof-of-concept to real-world implementation. The Living Lab- designed by iKure and Jhpiego, with support from other collaborators will enable innovators to test and validate healthcare technologies and service models within real health system environments. Beginning in Maharashtra, the initiative will initially focus on strengthening maternal and newborn health pathways, generating evidence, and developing scalable solutions that can be adopted across India while also supporting local employment. Across the sessions, participants emphasized that innovation alone is not sufficient to transform healthcare systems. For meaningful and lasting impact, solutions must be designed with scalability in mind and supported by sustainable financing, strong operational systems, and effective community-level delivery models. Several key themes emerged from the discussions. Experts stressed the importance of shifting healthcare systems from hospital-centric models toward prevention, primary care, and outpatient services, particularly as non-communicable diseases continue to rise. The discussions also highlighted the growing need of predictive supply chains, data-driven decision making, and responsible governance of health data to strengthen trust and reliability within health systems. The conversations over these two days reaffirmed that the future of healthcare will not be built in hospitals alone it will be built in communities. Strengthening healthcare systems requires innovation, financing, and technology to work together with frontline delivery models that ensure continuity of care. At iKure, our vision is to continue building scalable, technology-enabled primary healthcare models that can strengthen health systems across India and other emerging markets, ensuring quality care reaches the last mile , said Mr. Sujay Santra, Founder and CEO of iKure Techsoft Pvt. Ltd . iKure is exploring the possibility of developing a learning program in partnership with an international university to translate the discussions into structured knowledge and practical learning for healthcare leaders. About iKure Techsoft Pvt. Ltd iKure Techsoft Pvt. Ltd. is a technology-enabled healthcare company focused on strengthening primary healthcare systems through digitally empowered community health workers, integrated care pathways, and preventive health programs. Through its network of iCHAs (iKure Community Health Activists), iKure delivers screening, early diagnosis, and continuity of care across underserved populations. The organisation has impacted more than 34 million lives and treated over 4.5 million patients across 12 Indian states, developing scalable healthcare models designed for emerging markets. www.ikuretechsoft.com .

Mpower's 'MPowered Voices' Spotlights Stories of Women Rebuilding Themselves

chose to move beyond symbolic celebrations and instead spotlight the real journeys of women who rebuild their lives after adversity. Through its storytelling initiative MPowered Voices Womens Day Edition , Mpower created a powerful space for women to share lived experiences of resilience, healing, and self-discovery. Mpowers MPowered Voices on Womens Day celebrated courage and resilience as women come together to share powerful journeys of healing, self-discovery, and rebuilding their lives The session brought together over 86 women, with many contributing unfiltered, moving, and deeply powerful stories that reflected the diverse challenges they navigate in both their personal and professional lives. While some shared these intimate accounts, others drew strength and wisdom from these lived experiences and life journeys. From surviving abuse and rebuilding after divorce to coping with grief, overcoming bullying and body-shaming, navigating identity, and adapting to sudden hearing loss, each story echoed a universal message of courage and renewal. MPowered Voices Womens Day Edition One of the most moving moments came from a speaker who shared her journey of growing up in the slums and enduring multiple forms of abuse before eventually discovering her self-worth and confidence. Her story captured the strength it takes not only to survive adversity, but to rebuild ones life with dignity and belief in oneself. Another powerful moment came from a mother who spoke about rebuilding her life after divorce while raising her daughter as a single parent, followed by the daughters own reflections on growing up through that journey. These intergenerational narratives highlighted how resilience often becomes a legacy passed from one generation to the next. The session also created space for conversations around mental health, identity, and healing. Speakers openly spoke about living with depression and PTSD, navigating identity as members of the LGBTQ+ community, and transforming personal struggles into purpose-driven work supporting others. Guided by Mpower Senior psychologist Dilshad Khurana, the session fostered a safe and empathetic environment where participants could speak openly and listen with compassion. The conversations struck a deep chord with the audience. Many attendees shared that hearing these stories reminded them of their own journeys and left them feeling inspired to reclaim their voice, rebuild their confidence, and move forward with renewed strength. The importance of such conversations is reflected in broader data on womens wellbeing. According to a national study on womens mental health, nearly one in two women in India experiences chronic stress due to work-life pressures, financial instability, and societal expectations, highlighting the urgent need for safe spaces that encourage dialogue, support, and healing. Womens Day is often celebrated with messages and gestures, but real empowerment lies in creating spaces where women can speak their truth, connect through shared experiences, and rebuild themselves with courage , said Alpana Mishra, leading MPowered Voices from Mpower . Beyond the speakers, the listeners too walked away with powerful takeaways. Many participants reflected that the stories helped them recognise their own strength and reminded them that rebuilding oneself is not a momentit is a continuous journey. Through initiatives like MPowered Voices, Mpower continues to foster meaningful conversations around resilience, mental health, and empowerment, creating communities where women feel seen, heard, and supported. About Mpower Mpower, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to transforming India approach to mental health. Founded 9 years ago, Mpower has emerged as a leading force in spreading awareness, reducing stigma, and delivering holistic mental health care. With a robust team of over 200 trained professionals, Mpower impacts more than 121 million lives across seven cities, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Delhi and Pune. Operating through five key verticalsMovement, Clinical Care, Outreach, Academia, and Mpower 1 on 1Mpower offers a comprehensive range of services. The Movement focuses on changing cultural perceptions and alleviating stigma. Clinical Care provides world-class mental health services through the Centre, the Foundation, and the Cell, catering to various needs from holistic care to affordable support for the underprivileged. The Outreach vertical drives awareness and capacity-building through IGNITE Programs for schools, colleges, NGOs, and corporates. Academia equips individuals and professionals with skills to handle mental health crises and foster empathy. The Helpline offers 24/7 multilingual support, while special projects like Samvedana enhance mental health care in primary health centers. Mpowers integrated approach and collaboration with government agencies underscore its commitment to creating a supportive and stigma-free mental health landscape.

SpiceJet changes DelhiKolkata flight schedule for March 10, operates special Gulf flights

SpiceJet has revised the departure time for flight SG 263 from Delhi to Kolkata on March 10 to 9:40 am due to operational reasons. The airline is also operating special flights from Dubai to India to assist passengers affected by West Asia conflict-related disruptions, ensuring smoother connectivity.

CEC to review Bengal poll preparedness, hold press conference today

Kolkata: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is scheduled to hold a series of meetings with senior officials and police officers in West Bengal on Tuesday, March 11, to review preparedness for the upcoming assembly elections, officials said. The CEC will also hold a press conference amid controversies over alleged arbitrary deletions in the post-SIR electoral 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 .

Quote of the day by Mother Teresa: Life is an opportunity, benefit from it. Life is beauty

Mother Teresa, a Catholic nun, dedicated her life to serving the poor and sick, founding the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata. Her compassionate work with the destitute, orphaned, and those with diseases earned her global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize. Canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, her legacy continues to inspire.

West Asia tensions disrupt LPG supply in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata; Centre orders higher production for domestic use

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued orders to oil refineries to increase Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) production and directed that such additional output be channelled specifically for domestic use. This decision follows recent geopolitical disruptions that created constraints on the global fuel supply chain.

Petrol, Diesel price today: Check latest fuel rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Noida and Gurugram on March 10 as crude oil hovers $90 barrel

Petrol, Diesel price March 10: Despite the global crude oil price hovering around $90-$100 barrel, there has been no change in the prices of petrol and diesel on Tuesday, March 10. In Delhi, petrol price stands at Rs 94.77 per litre and in Mumbai, it is priced at Rs 103.49 per litre. The petrol prices remain high in Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru.

LPG Price Hike Sparks Surge In Induction Cooker And Electric Appliance Sales In Kolkata

Retailers noticed the surge starting Saturday, after the Centre attributed the price rise to escalating global energy costs linked to the West Asia conflict.

Trinamool plans to bring motion to remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar

The Trinamool Congress is preparing to move a motion in Parliament to remove Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This comes after allegations of disrespect towards women and a heated exchange with a Trinamool delegation in Kolkata. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced concerns over electoral roll revisions.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar faces go back slogans, shown black flags outside Kalighat temple in Kolkata

Gyanesh Kumar is visiting the State along with Election Commissioners SS Sandhu and Vivek Joshi to assess arrangements for the high-stakes polls

CEC Gyanesh Kumar faces go back slogans, shown black flags in Kolkata

Kolkata: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar faced go back slogans and was shown black flags on Monday, March 9, when he visited the revered Kalighat temple in south Kolkata. Police personnel present at the spot brought the situation under control, allowing the CEC to proceed with his visit to the temple. Similar demonstrations were 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 .

Gyanesh Kumar Faces Go Back Slogans, Shown Black Flags in Kolkata

Similar demonstrations were seen near the airport on Sunday night over the SIR exercise, after Kumar arrived in the city. As his convoy was leaving the airport, TMC workers raised go back slogans, targeting him

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar faces 'go back' slogans, shown black flags outside Kolkata Kalighat temple

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar faced protests and black flags upon arriving in Kolkata. Demonstrations occurred near the airport and at the Kalighat temple. The CEC is in the city to review election preparedness. He will meet with political parties, enforcement agencies, and administrative officials. The full Election Commission team is assessing arrangements for the upcoming assembly polls.

Kolkata weather today: Rainfall and thunderstorms in Howrah, Hooghly, Murshidabad on March 9? Check IMD's latest prediction for West Bengal

Weather in Kolkata: Kolkata, Howarh and Hooghly are likely to experience light rain and gusty winds on Monday and Tuesday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In Kolkata, the sky is likely to remain cloudy with possibility of thunderstorms and lightning. The weather agency has also warned of rainfall in Murshidabad, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, and other districts of West Bengal.

ECI full bench arrives in Kolkata for two-day visit with packed schedule

Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI)s full bench, led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, arrived in Kolkata from New Delhi late on Sunday evening with a packed schedule for the next two days. CEC Gyanesh Kumar and his team were received at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport by West Bengal 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 .