Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Bigg Boss 20 contestant Qazi Touqeer opened up about his longstanding friendship with star singer Arijit Singh. While chatting with his fellow housemates in an episode of BB 20, Qazi showered praise on the playback singer for his passion, fighting spirit and down-to-earth nature. Qazi, who shares a friendship with Arijit dating back to their days on the 2005 singing reality show Fame Gurukul, spoke about the singer with immense affection and admiration. Bro, I'm telling you. That guy is my life, Qazi said while talking about Arijit. Qazi also spoke about Arijit's passion for music and recalled how the singer could remain completely absorbed in his musical world for hours. That guy is my life. Uska fighting spirit crazy hai. Woh 8 ghante tak nahi thakta. Sitar leke baithta hai. (He sits down with his sitar.) Shuru jab kiya usne toh time ka kuch pata nahi chal raha hai. Saat ghanta, chhe ghanta, constant. Usi cheez mein khoya hua hai. (His fighting spirit is crazy. He doesnt get tired even after eight hours. Once he starts, he loses track of time. Seven hours, six hours, constantly. He is completely lost in it) Qazi went on to praise Arijit's love for the process of creating music, saying that for his friend, the joy lies in the process and the music itself. Mereko kapdon ka shauk hai, mereko aisa hai. Uske liye maza kya hai? Process. Uska sangeet. (I have a fascination for clothes and such things. But for him, what matters is the process. His music.) When asked about his favourite Arijit Singh song, Qazi became emotional and chose Tum Hi Ho from the 2013 film Aashiqui 2. He dedicated the song to his friend, saying he shared a very close bond with him and respected him so much that alfaz kam padh jaaye. (Out of words) Qazi then added, I love you, Arijit bhai. We love Arijit. Arijit bhai, I love you so much. The whole country loves him, bhai. Kuch bolne ki baat hi nahi hai. For the uninitiated, Qazi and Arijit's friendship goes back more than two decades. The two met as young contestants on Fame Gurukul in 2005 and have remained close despite their careers taking very different paths. Their friendship received another public endorsement after Qazi entered Bigg Boss 20. Arijit took to X and revealed that Qazi had given him a reason to watch the reality show for the first time. I will have to watch BIG BOSS for the first time in my life cz Apna Rockstar QAZI hai udhar, Arijit wrote.
Jamie Lee Curtis remembers late friend 25 years after cancer death
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Actress Jamie Lee Curtis has remembered her late friend Katie Westbrook, who died of cancer 25 years ago, and highlighted the lack of progress in finding effective treatments for childhood cancer. Curtis took to Instagram, where she said she wears Westbrooks wig whenever she speaks about childrens health, as a tribute to her friends resilience, humour and grace during her battle with the disease. She wrote on Instagram: My friend Katie Westbrook died 25 years ago. Her mother's beautiful essay questioning the lack of progress and a treatment for the horrific cancer that took her life is in my bio. I wear her wig whenever I talk about children's health as a way of reminding people of her resilient spirit, humor, and grace during the fight of her life.#neverforget, Lee Curtis added. Jamie Lee Curtis is known for her performances in the horror and slasher genres, alongside multiple comedies, she is regarded as a scream queen. Curtis has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, two Golden Globes, and two Actor Awards, as well as a nomination for a Grammy Award. Curtis made her screen debut in a 1977 episode of the television drama Quincy, M.E.. Her film debut came with Halloween and established her as a prominent scream queen. Her subsequent horror roles have included The Fog, Prom Night, and Terror Train, as well as six sequels from the Halloween franchise, concluding with Halloween Ends. She also gained brief recognition as a sex symbol following her role as a fitness instructor in Perfect and won her first Golden Globe for the sitcom Anything but Love. Curtis' most successful roles outside of the horror genre have been in the comedies Trading Places, True Lies, and Everything Everywhere All at Once; these respectively earned her BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Academy Award wins. Her other film credits include A Fish Called Wanda, Blue Steel, My Girl, The Tailor of Panama, Freaky Friday, Christmas with the Kranks, Knives Out, The Last Showgirl, and Freakier Friday. Curtis earned her first Emmy nomination for the television film Nicholas' Gift, and later won Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for the FX series The Bear. She also acted in the satirical slasher series Scream Queens.
Bombay High Court declines to restrain Manoj Jarange Patils march, notes right to protest
A bench of Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna heard a petition
SEBI likely to issue consultation paper on CAS framework: Report
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is likely to issue a consultation paper on the Closing Auction Session (CAS) on Saturday, with the regulator expected to propose changes to the methodology used to determine settlement prices for derivative contracts, according to a report. The report from NDTV Profit said the proposal is likely to be discussed at the SEBI board meeting, scheduled for September 24, and will address concerns raised by market participants about how derivative settlement prices are calculated on expiry days under the newly introduced CAS mechanism. SEBI is not planning to roll back the CAS itself but aims to refine the calculation of settlement prices under the auction mechanism on expiry days. SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey earlier clarified that CAS is here to stay, and that the market regulator was examining concerns raised by market participants to solve them. CAS, which came into effect on August 3, ends continuous trading in futures-and-options eligible stocks at 3:15 pm, moving those securities into a roughly 20minute auction where buy and sell orders are matched to determine the official closing price. NonF&O stocks continue trading until 3:30 pm, while stock and index derivatives trade until 3:40 pm. Indian equities have seen sharp moves during the newly launched closing auction session, particularly on derivatives expiry days. Indicative close for Sensex briefly dropped 2.5 per cent, during last week's session, causing it put options' premiums to surge 400 to 500 per cent during closing auction. Similarly, Tuesday also saw Nifty put options surging multi-fold on expiry day trading. Analysts said that CAS has made expiryday execution less predictable for systematic options strategies, adding that limited participation in the auction could allow a handful of orders to significantly change closing prices.
BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi traffic restrictions, diversions on key roads today
The Delhi Traffic Police posted an advisory on X on Friday night, stating that traffic diversions and regulated movement would be implemented on key routes across Delhi from 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman: Indias demographic dividend is happening in real time
This generation is not waiting for legacy yardsticks to validate their productivity
Mumbai Turns To Sea As Water Demand Outpaces Supply
The plan to supply desalinated water to Mumbai was first seriously considered after the severe water shortage of 2009, when the city faced daily water cuts. The civic body had proposed desalination to reduce the city's dependence on the monsoon.
Congress slams weak Modi govt over US ad asking Indians to self-deport
This comes after an advertisement posted by the Department of Homeland Security
Gujarat: 195 girls fall sick after eating hostel food, 20 hospitalised
Girls at Ranak Girls Hostel in Vallabh Vidyanagar complained of vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain from early Friday morning following their dinner the previous night, District Epidemic Medical Officer Dr Rakesh Patel said
Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes kill four in Kyiv and Russia's Tula region
Eight others were injured in the drone strikes on petrol stations in the Ukrainian capital early on Friday; the attacks followed an overnight strike on a Kyiv residential block that injured another eight people
Sandra Bullock: Practical Magic 2 would not exist without the love for the first film
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Hollywood star Sandra Bullock has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to fans as Practical Magic 2 makes its debut, saying the much-awaited sequel would not have been possible without the enduring love for the original film. Sandra took to Instagram, where she shared a gamut of images and clips from the making of the film and said that she and the team poured their hearts into the second chapter of the film. She hoped it gives audiences two hours to laugh, cry, escape and celebrate the people who bring a little magic into their lives. Practical Magic 2 is out now we poured our whole hearts into this film, and Im so honored to finally put it out into the world. This second chapter would not exist without the love youve given the first film all these years later, so thank you. Truly, she wrote as the caption. The actress added: I hope this movie gives you two hours to laugh, cry, escape, and celebrate the people who make your life feel like magic. Your sisters, your brothers, your family, your friends, your chosen family and maybe even yourself. With love, Sandy. Practical Magic 2 is a romantic fantasy directed by Susanne Bier. The film is based on the 2021 novel The Book of Magic by Alice Hoffman. The sequel to Practical Magic. The film stars Sandra, Nicole Kidman, Dianne Wiest, and Stockard Channing reprising their roles from the previous film, alongside new cast members Joey King, Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, Xolo Mariduea, and Solly McLeod. The first installment, which was released in 1998, had Bullock and Kidman play sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, descended from a long line of witches. Raised by their aunts after their parents' death from a family curse, the sisters are taught the uses of practical magic as they grow up. Years later, they must use their magic to destroy the evil spirit of Gillian's abusive boyfriend before it kills them.
US: Donald Trump signs act to honour Army veterans and Medal of Honor recipients
Signed at Texass National Medal of Honor Museum, the bill honors over 3500 recipients of the nations highest military decoration
Xi Jinping arrives in New Delhi for BRICS Summit, set to meet PM Modi
He is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the summit.
Houthis seize Perim island as Saudi-backed forces withdraw from Bab el-Mandeb
Full Houthi control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait would grant Iran a major advantage in its conflict with the US by threatening a critical global shipping route and driving up oil prices
Urban forests are just what Mumbai needs
A pocket of green is then created, and though it is narrow, the impression is that of a forest with eye-pleasing foliage.
Redevelopment gains cant be taxed in hands of CHS, rules Mumbai ITAT
Jackie Shroff wishes Ranjeet as he turns 84, says My respects always
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Veteran actor Ranjeet turned 84 on Saturday, and on the occasion, Bollywood star Jackie Shroff shared a throwback picture of the veteran star and penned a heartfelt birthday wish. The post featured a vintage picture of Ranjeet in a sharp suit, posing in his quintessential style. Alongside the picture, the birthday message read, My respects always! Happy Birthday. #HappyBirthday. For the uninitiated, Ranjeet, born Gopal Bedi on September 12, 1942, in Jandiala Guru near Amritsar, is known for his extensive career in Hindi cinema. Hello was particularly known for playing some of the most memorable negative characters of the 1970s and 1980s. He has appeared in more than 200 films and became synonymous with the quintessential Bollywood screen villain. Reportedly, it was Sunil Dutt who played an important role in bringing him into the film industry. Ranjeet got his first screen opportunities with Sawan Bhadon and Reshma Aur Shera. He initially played a brother in the two films before Sharmeelee changed the course of his career. In Sharmeelee, Ranjeet played a negative character, and the success of the film led to a flood of villainous roles. He went on to portray a wide range of antagonists, from criminals and gangsters to dacoits and corrupt or malicious authority figures. He has been a part of classics such as Amar Akbar Anthony, Dharmatma, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Laawaris, Namak Halaal, Suhaag, Vishwanath, Sharaabi, Rocky and Hero. On the personal front, Ranjeet is married to Aloka Bedi, and the couple has two children, daughter Divyanka Bedi and son Jeeva. Ranjeet has also continued to remain active and fitness-conscious even in his 80s. Earlier this year, he grabbed attention after sharing a workout video in which his daughter Divyanka coached him through a cable chest-fly exercise. In the video, Ranjeet was seen jokingly following his daughter's instructions as she coached him, and he later thanked his daughter, calling her his coach.
Barrier-free toll booths on national highways by March 2027: Nitin Gadkari
The Minister for Road Transport and Highways said that full FASTag implementation will benefit the government by 25,000 crore per year
Lalbaugcha Raja 2026 first look unveiled in Mumbai ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14
Padma Lakshmi remembers Twin Towers on 9/11 anniversary: An emblem of our childhood
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) India-born supermodel, TV host, producer, cookbook author and actress Padma Lakshmi remembered the victims of the September 2001 attacks, reflecting on her childhood memories of New Yorks Twin Towers. Taking to Instagram, Padma shared a video of the 9/11 attack and paid tribute to the first responders who risked their lives during the tragedy 25 years ago. She took to the caption section, where she recalled how the day changed her life for everyone 25 years ago. Growing up as a kid in New York, those twin towers were always a landmark. I remember my mom always telling me to look up for them when we went downtown. I remember the day the world changed for all of us 25 years ago, Padma wrote in the caption. She added: I was away from my beloved city and my heart ached for all that we lost. Those twin towers were an emblem of our childhood. They were part of an age gone by for so many of us. Thank you to all the first responders who put their lives and health on the line. Thinking today of all the lives lost and the families who were irrevocably affected. The September 11 attacks were a coordinated series of suicide attacks perpetrated by al-Qaeda against the United States in 2001. A total of 19 hijackers commandeered four commercial passenger airliners. The first two planes were flown into each of the Twin Towers in New York City, while the third plane crashed into the Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, in Arlington County, Virginia. The fourth plane crashed in a rural field in Pennsylvania during a passenger revolt. Born in India, Lakshmi immigrated to the United States as a child. She became a model before embarking on a career on television. She has written five books. She rose to prominence by hosting Top Chef. Lakshmi is the creator, host, and executive producer of the docuseries Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi. She has received 16 Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
A domestic helper has been arrested for stealing jewelry worth 5 lakh from actress Ameesha Patels mothers home in Mumbai. Actress Ameesha Patels Mother Falls Victim to Jewelry Theft; Domestic Helper Arrested
Pink speaks out on Jewish identity amid backlash: Wont take it quietly
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Singer Pink has spoken out about her Jewish identity and the backlash she faced after a social media repost, saying she would rather be disagreed with for her own words than judged for something she didn't write. Pink wrote a long post on Instagram, where she has clarified her views on the Israel-Gaza conflict while speaking about her Jewish identity and calling for the protection of innocent lives on all sides. She wrote: Ive been quiet in my own words for a week, which you know isnt like me. So here they are. Last Sunday I reposted somebody elses post about Macklemores set at Ed Sheerans show. It said things in words I didnt write, and I wouldnt have chosen all of them. Then the comments came, and I did what I do when Im hurt, which is post snarky memes and act like Im fine. Thats on me. She shared that a repost isnt a statement, and a meme isnt a spine. Social media makes all of us cheap and fast, and we all know it. But Id rather be disagreed with for what I actually said than hated for what anybody else wrote, so let me say it, Pink said. Pink said she was born a Jew. I didnt pick it, and Ive never hidden it. And this week a whole lot of people decided what I believe without asking me, without checking a single thing Ive ever said or done, because a repost and the word Jew were apparently enough to fill in the rest. But let me fill it in... myself. The singer said that she doesnt speak for Israel, or for any government. Of course I dont speak for Israel, or for any government. I never have. What I said in October 2023 is still exactly what I believe: Hamas is a terrorist organization. Palestinians deserve a future that honors their humanity and their aspirations, she wrote. Protecting innocent life comes first, everywhere, and nobody should ever celebrate the death of a child. Anybodys child. Ive spent a decade as a UNICEF ambassador for kids who didnt choose the country or the war they were born into, and I have grieved every one of them, on both sides of that fence. I didnt do it from behind a screen; I went to those children and held them. Im not going to litigate a complex war in an Instagram caption, and Im not going to recite anybodys slogan to earn back a follower. Pink says she is standing up for her Jewish identity despite backlash, rejecting assumptions about her views while calling for the safety and humanity of Jews, Palestinians, Muslims and Israelis. She says she will continue speaking out in her own words. And now I'm standing up for my own people, and I thought I knew going in how lonely that would be. And it's lonelier than that. But I'm doing it anyway. Something has changed in this country, and can read it in my own comments. Pink says she feels people have unfairly labelled her and assumed her views, but she refuses to stay silent about her Jewish identity and beliefs. From the river to the sea. ionist, spat like it's a slur, by people who couldn't tell you the details of what I believe, because I hadn't told them yet. I wasn't asked. I was told. I don't think most of them hate Jews. She said that she can handle being portrayed as the villain but wont accept it quietly. Pink says that no one has to agree with one thing Israel's government does to not want the Jewish family two rows down from you to be scared or targeted at a concert. That's the scared or targeted at a concert. That's the only thing I'm asking anybody for. To the ones who are frightened this week, Jewish or Muslim or Palestinian or Israeli or just tired of all of it: I see you. And if anybody wants to really know what I think, just ask me. I'm right here. I've never been hard to find. And I'll keep speaking out, in my own words. It's Friday. For working people who have more to worry about than pop stars and pile- ons, it's the end of a hard week. It's also the 25th anniversary of September 11th, and my prayers are with the innocent souls we lost that morning. And at sundown, for Jews, it's Rosh Hashanah, our New Year. Now I'm going to go make dinner for my kids, light the candles, dip some apples in honey, pour a glass of wine and be full of gratitude. That's my tradition. It also happens to be a Jewish one. Shana tova.
Pune: FDA seizes paneer from four trucks in Budhwar Peth ahead of Ganeshotsav
Four trucks seized in Budhwar Peth as Food and Drug Administration steps up food safety checks ahead of Ganeshotsav across city
Saif Ali Khan case: Court rejects guilty plea of accused, trial set to begin
MU students flag unclean washrooms, faulty AC at Kalina campus library
Mumbai University students flag unclean washrooms, non-functional AC and early closing hours at Kalina campus library
Ganeshotsav 2026: BMC plans to reuse PoP collected after idol immersions
Agencies to use scientific, environmentally compliant methods to make PoP fit for reuse, such as idol-making, plasterboards, ceramics and medical plaster, and bricks
Amaal Mallik lashes out at Salman Khan Films team for not crediting him in Hero anniversary post
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 12 (IANS) Music composer and singer Amaal Mallik has called out the Salman Khan Films team over an anniversary post celebrating the 2015 film Hero. The singer questioned the decision to leave out the composer and lyricist of the song being featured, and called it their audacity. Amaal took to the comments section of a post shared by the official Salman Khan Films page and expressed his displeasure over what he described as a lack of respect for the creators behind the song. He wrote, Whoever is handling the page or the social media of @skfilmsofficial, I love the audacity you have shown by leaving out the composer & the lyricist of the song lol ! It doesnt look nice that a song that is created with the pain, blood, sweat and tears of a music composer & his lyric writer, is celebrated without the creators being respected or even mentioned. He added,Learn to do the basics otherwise delete this page. Dont delete my comment, let Salman sir see it as well, so that he knows you guys screwed up. The comment came as the production house marked the 11th anniversary of Hero, the Nikkhil Advani directorial that starred Sooraj Pancholi and Athiya Shetty in their Bollywood debuts. For the uninitiated, Amaal was the composer of the film's music, while Kumaar penned the lyrics for Main Hoon Hero Tera, which went on to become one of the most recognised songs from the soundtrack. The song was originally sung by Amaal's brother Armaan Malik, while Salman Khan also recorded his own version. Talking about Amaal Mallik, the composer has built a career around romantic melodies and film soundtracks, with his work spanning films such as Jai Ho, Roy, Hero, Airlift, Kapoor & Sons, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, Baaghi, Kabir Singh and Vedaa. His independent songs including Main Rahoon Ya Na Rahoon, Chal Wahan Jaate Hain and Zindagi Aa Raha Hoon Main have also found a strong audience. The latest outburst comes at a time when Amaal has been stirring headlines for being vocal about his struggles within the film and music industry. Earlier this year, he alleged that powerful people had sidelined him and claimed that he had been removed from more than 60 projects over the years. Amaal, a few days ago announced that he was taking a break from film music until next year, saying that he needed time to focus on his mind, body, health and overall recovery. He said he would return with a heart full of melodies and asked fans not to pester him during the break.
Mumbai: 57 commercial units demolished as govt reclaims six acres in Mankhurd
Land parcel along Sion-Panvel Highway cleared after cleared after decades of land grabbing and encroachment over Childrens Aid Society land
Mumbai: Over 1,000 tribals march to Raj Bhavan seeking forest rights laws
Members of tribal community march to Raj Bhavan demanding implementation of laws protecting their rights
Mumbai cyber fraud racket: Three held as 2,898 SIM cards used in fraud
Investigators examining financial and technical trail to identify beneficiaries of transactions
Bandra Fair 2026: Hairstylist and students to offer free haircuts to visitors
People can get their hair cut, trimmed on Sundays during the Mount Mary Fair on first-come, first-served basis
Save Vedansh, Mumbai: 22-month-old with SMA needs Rs 9 crore for treatment
Family says 22-month-old Vedansh Singh needs urgent treatment for SMA Type 1; influencer Mayuresh Gujar rallies Mumbai to raise R9 cr, says just R150 each from four lakh citizens would help
Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the pivotal role of BRICS nations in fostering global economic growth and demographic expansion. He criticized the relevance of the G-7, branding it as the 'so-called G-7,' and condemned the extensive sanctions imposed on Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, while asserting Russia's resilience and commitment to strengthening partnerships with dependable allies.
Bandra Fair 2026: Vendor response drops, 150 of 430 BMC stalls remain vacant
Bandra fair faces a sharp drop in vendor response with only five of 20 premium stalls near Mount Mary Church taken ahead of Bandra fair; 150 of 430 BMC stalls remain vacant; locals cite poor returns, redevelopment, and Ganpati commitments for poor response
16,900 students join HDFC ERGO Insurance Quiz Junior 2026
The 11th edition of the HDFC ERGO Insurance Quiz Junior has attracted over 16,900 students from nearly 4,850 schools across India, with more than 340 students from 151 schools in 15 cities of Jammu and Kashmir registering for the competition. Organised by HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, the flagship initiative aims to promote insurance literacy and financial awareness among students of Classes 8 and 9. Since its launch in 2016, the quiz has expanded from 18 schools in a single city to participants across more than 1,100 cities. Over the past decade, the initiative has reached nearly three million students nationwide. Somesh Surana, Joint President, Digital Business Group & Marketing, HDFC ERGO, said the initiative seeks to help young people understand the importance of preparing for unexpected situations while encouraging curiosity and confidence among students from diverse backgrounds. This year, the quiz content is available in 10 Indian languages, with 26 participating schools from vernacular-medium backgrounds, strengthening its reach at the grassroots level. The preliminary rounds are currently underway. The top 32 teams will advance to virtual zonal rounds, from which six teams will qualify for the national grand finale. The finale is scheduled to be held physically in Mumbai on September 22.
J&K Bank secures Best Bank Award for Digital Transformation
J&K Bank has won the Best Bank Award for Digital Transformation in Banking at the Navabharat BFSI Summit & Awards 2026 in Mumbai. This accolade highlights the banks successful deployment of cutting-edge technology to transform customer-facing banking services. Zonal Head (Mumbai) Irfan Kawoosa received the award on behalf of the Bank during the ceremony held at Taj President, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai. Commenting on the achievement, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said that the recognition belongs to the entire J&K Bank family, whose commitment and adaptability continue to drive the Banks transformation into a future-ready financial institution. He further said, For us, digital transformation is about simplifying banking, improving accessibility and delivering seamless, reliable services across geographies and customer segments. This award recognizes our sustained efforts to build a secure, agile and customer-centric digital banking ecosystem. While we continue to modernise our technology architecture and leverage data-driven capabilities, customer trust and information security remain central to the progress of our digital journey, he added. The Navabharat BFSI Summit & Awards -2026 had brought together thought leaders and experts from banking, financial services, insurance and financial technology to deliberate on the evolving dynamics of Indias BFSI ecosystem. The summit featured knowledge sessions on digital transformation, AI-driven compliance, digital onboarding, fintech innovation and systemic risk mitigation.
From top-4 to 26, Srinagar falls in Centres clean-air ranking
Srinagar, Sep 11:Just three years ago, Srinagar was counted among the countrys top-performing cities in GoI survey regarding air quality, city-wise, across India. Now it has found itself at 26th position in the latest Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026.The striking reversal for a city synonymous with pristine mountains, lakes and fresh Himalayan air throws uncomfortable in the air here. The health of citizens and environment in Srinagar is once again under scanner.The latest ranking Of Swatch Vayi Sarvekshan has Srinagar behind Delhi.Delhi has for long made headlines with toxic winter smog and features among Indias most persistent air-pollution hotspots. Strikingly, Delhi secured the 21st rank with 172 points. Shockingly, Srinagar scored 162.6 points and is now at 26th among cities with a population of over 10 lakh.In the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2023, Srinagar had clinched the fourth rank nationally in its population category. It was lauded for being one of the country's leading cities in the clean-air initiative.Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC), Vasu Yadav while speaking to Greater Kashmir, said the ranking does not reflect the air quality of Srinagar. He said that Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan does not rank cities based on the measurement of how good or bad their air quality is.It is not a linear, simple addition but a number of factors are assessed while giving points to the cities, he said. Yadav said the Sarvekshan measures the initiatives taken by cities to control pollution and the implementation of air-quality improvement programmes, under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The assessment is based on measures to address road dust management, solid waste management, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction waste, demolition waste and other other emission sources, he said. More importantly, he said, it has a very strong connection to Solid Waste Managemnet measures taken by the cities. If the waste is not managed scientifically, it is a pollution hazard, and a negative impact on air quality as it will eventually be burnt, he said. The Chairman said the municipalities have to list what all they have done to control air pollution over the year. The process is heavily based on self-assessment by city municipalities, he said. It is also a reflection of the scrutiny at the state level, evaluation by the Central Pollution Control Board and importantly, field verification by independent committees, he said. Three years ago, the parameter of ranking just the air quality and thats how Srinagar was among the top, he said.The latest survey has placed Srinagar above major metros such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata.However, it trails behind Delhi and Hyderabad. Lucknow has topped the category with 198 points. Other top cities with notable clean air measures are Indore and Jabalpur.At the bottom are Chennai, Jamshedpur, Kota, Kolkata and Madurai.The pollution in Srinagar has often been blamed on the ever-increasing number of vehicles and traffic congestion to road dust.The construction activity, waste burning in autumn and emissions are considered the major culprits. The fifth edition of the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan, 2026, assessed 130 cities covered under NCAP, in three population categories. The Union Environment Ministry said 108 of the 130 cities showed improvement in PM10 levels during 2025-26.
DRI Mumbai seizes 3.47 kg gold worth Rs 5.47 crore, arrests four
The News Mill
Horoscope today, September 11: Check astrological predictions for all zodiac sig
Wondering what's in store for you today? Well, we've got you covered. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Cancer, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius
Maratha Reservation Movement Intensifies as Manoj Jarange Patil Plans March to Mumbai
Manoj Jarange Patil escalates the Maratha reservation movement, threatening a march to Mumbai if demands are not met. Maratha Reservation Movement Intensifies as Manoj Jarange Patil Plans March to Mumbai
Maharashtra govt to regulate admissions, fees for PG diploma in management courses
5 years on, BMC begins upgrading Mumbais 1st climate action plan
AERA revises tariff incentive rules to boost international flights from Navi Mumbai airport
Outburst against HC: Maharashtra law secretary apologises
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 11: PayU, India's leading diversified fintech platform, unveiled its AI-powered Fraud Liability Protect (FLP) solution for Indian merchants accepting international card payments at the Global Fintech Fest 2026. PayU's FLP solution offers risk and liability protection against modern-day AI scams and eligible fraud chargebacks for cross-border card payments through AI and risk-based decisioning, enabling safer and higher payments conversions for merchants.
West Bengal CM Adhikari plans Ambani meet as state steps up investment pitch
West Bengal's Chief Minister plans to meet Mukesh Ambani in Mumbai soon. He will also attend a dinner hosted during the BRICS Summit in Delhi. CM Adhikari also said a defense project proposal from DRDO for East Midnapore has been approved. Meanwhile, Anant Ambani expressed Reliance's eagerness to invest in West Bengal.
3 from Sambhaji Brigade throw black powder on MPSC secretary, arrested
BRICS finance chiefs flag tariff risks, push cross-border payments
BRICS finance ministers voiced concerns over unilateral trade actions and tariffs. They endorsed efforts for cross-border payment interoperability and local currency settlements. The group also called for reforms of global financial institutions like the IMF. These reforms aim to give emerging markets greater voice and representation. The leaders met in Mumbai to discuss these pressing global economic issues.
Petition in Bombay high court challenges constitutional validity of Maharashtra anti-conversion law
Hanuman Ansh singer Suneel Lodhi sings 'Maine Tere Hi Bharose Hanuman' on flight, video goes viral
Suneel Lodhi, the visually impaired singer whose voice has become closely associated with the devotional song Maine Tere Hi Bharose Hanuman from Hanuman Ansh, recently found an unexpected audience at 30,000 feet. A video circulating on social media shows Lodhi singing the song for fellow passengers during a flight reportedly travelling from Bhopal to Mumbai.
Why single out Pune with 13-day liquor sale ban during Ganesh festivities: Bombay HC
Education dept issues show-cause notice to MLAs school over Paryushan food advisory
Rs 1.95 cr gold, 1.28L UAE dirhams stolen at Mumbai airport
Mumbai: A Surat-based textile trader returning from Dubai was allegedly cheated of 1.5 kg of gold worth around Rs 1.95 crore and cash amounting to 1.28 lakh UAE dirhams (approximately Rs 33.35 lakh) at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, a police official said on Friday, September 11. Two persons have been booked for cheating, 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 .
ATS arrests Mumbra woman in probe into passports obtained using fake documents
Centre launches OneTag to let FASTag users switch banks without replacing tag
Jarange Patil sets sights on Mumbai as Maratha agitation escalates
Digital Desk | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Sep 11 (IANS) With signals suggesting that the Maharashtra government delegation may ignore the ongoing agitation, Manoj Jarange Patilwho has brought the issue of certificates back to the centre of discussion by seeking to rectify flaws in the Maratha reservation is preparing to head to Mumbai along with his supporters. A meeting of supporters has been called at 12 p.m. on September 12 to decide the further course of action. Jarange Patil stated that permission for the protest at Mumbais Azad Maidan has been sought, expressing confidence that the government will grant it. Criticising the administration by stating, Unless you press the nose, the mouth doesn't open, he made it clear that the protesters are now bound for Mumbai. If we apply according to the law, it is the government's responsibility to grant permission. The Home Ministry must approve it, and the government should abide by the rules. However, the government considers itself above everyone, above the courts, and is violating the Constitution. Permission will be granted, and the hunger strike will take place at Azad Maidan, Jarange Patil said. He instructed supporters not to bring vehicles to Antarwali Sarati, advising those coming from distant places to arrive at night and locals to arrive in the morning. The government representatives noted that out of the 15 demands raised during Jarange Patil's movement, 12 have already been fulfilled upon detailed review, emphasising that the government keeps all doors open for discussion. Even as the decision to intensify the agitation was being made, Abhijit Dipke of the Cockroach Janata Party met Jarange Patil, requesting him to end his hunger strike considering his deteriorating health, while simultaneously warning the government against laying a hand on him. Expressing deep concern over Jarange Patils deteriorating health, Dipke urged the activist to end his fast, emphasising that Maharashtra desperately needs his presence for the broader social cause. At the same time, Dipke issued a sharp warning to the state government, demanding immediate dialogue and cautioning authorities against taking any coercive measures against the hunger striker. If the government had fulfilled its basic duties by providing quality education and employment opportunities, people like Manoj Jarange would not have been forced to sit on indefinite hunger strikes. This is a clear failure of the administration, Dipke told reporters after meeting Jarange Patil. Dipke heavily criticised the administration's perceived apathy, contrasting its inaction with its public engagements elsewhere. The government seems to have time to meet comedians and social media figures, but nobody has time to come here and talk to a leader who has been fasting for 14 days for the welfare of his community, he remarked. Invoking recent events involving activist Sonam Wangchuk, Dipke strongly warned against any forceful police removal from the site. This is Maharashtra. If the government tries to forcibly touch or remove Manoj Jarange Patil, people from every corner of the state will march directly to Antarwali Sarati, and the government will have to face the consequences, Dipke declared. Meanwhile, support for Jarange Patil's movement continues to grow across various districts of Marathwada even as preparations gain momentum for the proposed protest march to Mumbai's Azad Maidan. Under the banner of Sakal Maratha Samaj, a two-hour road blockade was staged on the Latur-Barshi route in the Chincholirao Wadi area of Latur taluka, where protesters raised fierce slogans against the government. In Nitur, Nilanga taluka, tyres were burnt to block the Latur-Zaheerabad highway. As supporters take to the streets, the government has begun releasing summaries detailing the number of certificates issued across different districts.
Saif Ali Khan attack case: Mumbai court denies accused's request to plead guilty
The accused, who is currently in judicial custody, filed an application before the court last month expressing his willingness to plead guilty to the charges. He also sought leniency from the court
Khilafat House redevelopment: Shifting of old grave shelved
Thane MACT awards Rs 14.8 lakh to tempo driver injured in 2015 ST bus crash
Mumbai's iconic Lalbaugcha Raja first look unveiled ahead of Ganeshotsav
First glimpse of Mumbai's Lalbaugcha Raja; devotees crowd pandal, chant 'Ganpati Bappa Morya'
Lalbaugcha Raja is one of Mumbai's most revered Ganesh idols and attracts lakhs of devotees every year. Celebrities, politicians and commoners visit the pandal during the festival to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Four arrested for hacking 42-year-old from Maharashtra to death
Nana Patole accuses government of misleading OBCs over caste census
Senior Congress leader Nana Patole accused the Narendra Modi-led Union Government of misleading the OBC community through the caste census process. He urged the Centre to include a separate OBC category in the census form and called for updated caste-wise data
Onion prices in Mumbai region rise to Rs 70 per kg, likely to surge after Ganeshotsav
Mumbai Cricket Association Boosts Cricket Subsidy, Honours Legends
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has significantly increased its subsidy corpus for affiliated clubs to Rs 500 crore over the next decade, aiming to bolster grassroots cricket infrastructure. Additionally, the MCA decided to name lounges at the iconic Wankhede Stadium after cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Ajinkya Rahane, and late Madhav Mantri.
Mumbai's Lalbaugcha Raja idol was unveiled on Friday evening, September 11. This iconic Ganpati idol is a major attraction for the upcoming Ganeshotsav celebrations. Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 is scheduled to commence on September 14. The Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal was established in 1934. Devotees will visit pandals to offer prayers and seek blessings during the festival.
Kohli And Shinde Meet In London For Sports Development Talks
Former India cricket captain Virat Kohli met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in London to discuss enhancing sports infrastructure, athlete development, and the state's progress. The dialogue focused on policy improvements, upcoming sports facilities like a Sports City near Navi Mumbai, and empowering youth through sports initiatives. Kohli also shared his passion for cricket and commitment to guiding young athletes.
Ganeshotsav: Mumbai Metro One extends services till 1.03 am from Sept 14 to 25
Mumbai Metro One said the move is aimed at providing passengers with a safe, reliable and convenient public transport option during the festive period
Bombay high court refuses to bar Jarange from entering Mumbai, says agitation a fundamental right
MCA raises corpus to Rs 500-cr; Wankhede lounges to be named after Tendulkar, Rahane and Mantri
The Mumbai Cricket Association will increase its subsidy corpus to Rs 500 crore. This significant funding will support affiliated clubs over the next ten years. Lounges at the Wankhede Stadium will be named after Sachin Tendulkar and Ajinkya Rahane. Late Madhav Mantri will also be honored with a designated lounge at the stadium. These decisions were made during the association's annual general meeting.
MLAs son Rohit Gavit among 2 detained, 12 govindas arrested in Palghar hospital staffer assault case
NGT fines CIDCO Rs 10,000 for delay in filing flamingo-flight study report
CIDCO holds lottery for 4,779 homes in Navi Mumbai; 3,142 applicants win
The housing scheme was launched by CIDCO on August 15, 2026 to provide affordable housing opportunities to eligible Economically Weaker Section (EWS) applicants in Navi Mumbai
Lalbaugcha Raja 2026 unveiled: First look at Mumbai's iconic Ganpati idol ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi
Lalbaugcha Raja for 2026 was unveiled in Mumbai on Friday, September 11, at 7 pm, giving devotees their first look at this year's much-awaited Ganpati idol . The annual unveiling is an important moment for devotees who wait to see the form in which the popular Mumbai Ganpati will appear during the upcoming celebrations. With Ganesh Chaturthi falling on September 14 this year, the unveiling comes just days before the main festival.
Alia Bhatt, Nikhil Madhok of Prime Video, director Sreeti Mukerji and producer Shaheen Bhatt attended the trailer launch of their film Don't Be Shy at a five-star hotel in Mumbai. The venue was designed like a college festival, complete with fun activities and stalls serving gola, candy floss and more. However, the event began nearly two hours late, leaving the media waiting for a considerable time. To add to the disappointment, the proceedings wrapped up in just around 30 minutes. Thankfully, Alia Bhatt made the wait worthwhile with a hilarious childhood anecdote involving her sister, Shaheen. Alia began by saying, 14 years ago, I made my debut as an actor. And 14 years later, I am today introducing four new actors and a debutant director. I am way more nervous than they are right now (laughs)! I really have butterflies in my stomach. She was asked if she ever had the desire to work in this film as an actor as well. She replied, No, I don't think I ever felt that. I love being an actor and being in front of the camera. But being a producer has another sort of fulfilment; it gives me another level of joy. We have been involved in building the world and the story from the word 'Go', since Sreeti came to us with an idea. She expressed the desire to make the film on it. We said, 'Yes, let's do it together'. It took two years to build it out, after which we took it to our lovely partners at Amazon. On Friday, we sent over the material to them and on Saturday morning, Nikhil messaged, 'Alia, let's speak' (smiles). The host then asked Alia Bhatt, Shaheen Bhatt, Nikhil Madhok and Sreeti Mukerji the meaning of Gen Z terms like Aura farming, breadcrumbing, side quest, brainrot, ragebait, etc. Alia raised laughs as she shared, Ragebait was what Shaheen used to do to me as a kid. She used to say to me that I came free with Parle-G! Like I was not really my mom's and my dad's (child) and that I came free with Parle-G (laughs). So, that was Shaheen ragebaiting me when I was 4. Then, the trailer of Don't Be Shy was shown to the attendees, followed by the films leading actors Aarushi Bajaj, Piyush Khati, Bianca Arora, and Ansh Duggal coming on stage. Don't Be Shy releases on Amazon Prime Video on September 25. Also Read: Alia Bhatt REACTS to Ajay Devgns Drishyam The Conclusion trailer: Hat-trick incoming
FIR filed against developers for Rs 43 lakh flat fraud in Maharashtra
ED attaches land worth Rs 3.91 crore in Rs 307 crore Indore bank fraud case
Digital Desk | Indore, Sep 11 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Indore Sub-Zonal office has provisionally attached three commercial land parcels valued at around Rs 3.91 crore in Hukmakhedi village of Indore under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, officials said on Friday. The properties belong to M/s Vishwakarma Creations Private Limited and are linked to a major bank fraud and money laundering case involving Neo Corp International Limited (NCIL) and related entities. The provisional attachment order was issued on September 10, 2026. According to the ED, the company received proceeds of crime generated through a bank fraud that caused a combined loss of Rs 307.44 crore to public sector banks, an ED press note said. The investigation was initiated on the basis of two FIRs. The first was registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'s Anti-Corruption Bureau in Bhopal, against Utkarsh Trivedi and others for allegedly cheating the Punjab National Bank of Rs 57.47 crore. The second FIR was filed by the CBI's Economic Offences Wing at Mumbai against NCIL, its directors Sunil Kumar Trivedi and Utkarsh Trivedi, and others for causing a wrongful loss of Rs 249.97 crore to the State Bank of India, it said. The ED probes revealed that substantial funds originating from the loan accounts of NCIL and its related entities were routed through intermediary companies controlled and managed by Sunil Kumar Trivedi and Utkarsh Trivedi. These funds were layered and diverted before reaching M/s Vishwakarma Creations Private Limited, which subsequently utilised or dissipated them, the ED said. Investigators found that the land parcels standing in the name of Vishwakarma Creations were acquired from the proceeds of the alleged crime. The attachment has been made to prevent further dissipation of the properties. Earlier in the same case, the ED had provisionally attached an immovable property valued at around GBP 2,45,000 (around Rs 2.08 crore) located at 24 Cygnet Avenue in Feltham, Middlesex, in the United Kingdom. Officials said that the attachment is part of ongoing efforts to recover proceeds of crime and establish the complete money trail. Further investigation into the role of the companies and individuals involved is currently underway.
CBI arrests two government officials for allegedly demanding Rs 1 crore bribe
CBI has arrested a CGST Superintendent and a consultant over an alleged Rs 1 crore bribery demand linked to the redevelopment of two buildings in New Panvel. The officer allegedly sought money for issuing an NOC and handing over 24 CGST-owned flats for redevelopment
Vijay Mallya continues to evade Indian law, ED tells HC
Mumbai: Former liquor baron Vijay Mallya continues to evade the legal process in India, and the recovery of debts by the banks does not absolve him of the money laundering charges, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted to the Bombay High Court. The central agency on September 8 filed its affidavit in response to a 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 .
CR announces block on Sept 13; Main, Trans-Harbour Lines to remain affected
Several local train services on the Main Line and Trans-Harbour Line will be affected during the block. Passengers have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly
Maharashtra: Congress alleges Central Scheme to place OBCs in General category
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) Senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Nana Patole on Friday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modis administration, accusing the Union Government of deceiving the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community under the guise of conducting a caste census. Speaking to the media after leading a delegation to meet Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Patole alleged that the Modi government is actively attempting to shift the OBC population into the open (general) category through the census process. Highlighting specific flaws in the census format, Patole stated that out of the 40 questions included in the enumeration form, Question No. 10 reveals an underlying design to categorise OBCs under the open category. The OBC community comprises numerous castes and sub-castessuch as Kunbi and Banjarawith varied regional nomenclatures across states (Lamta in Andhra Pradesh, Kurmi or Jat in other regions). Classification based on linguistic and regional identities requires urgent updating so that these names are accurately reflected in a caste-wise enumeration, Patole argued. He urged the Centre to adopt the comprehensive caste census models previously implemented by state governments in Bihar and Telangana to ensure fair representation. Patole further noted that despite formal written representations sent to Prime Minister Modi by Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, the Union Government has failed to respond, reflecting what he termed an anti-OBC mindset. In the memorandum submitted to Governor Varma, the delegation emphasised that authentic, updated demographic data is critical for formulating social justice policies, welfare schemes, educational opportunities, and employment strategies. The delegation demanded that a provision for a separate, dedicated column/category for OBCs be made in the national census enumeration form. Independent and precise data collection for every sub-caste within the OBC umbrella will address existing socio-economic and educational disparities among different subgroups. The delegation emphasised the need for a comprehensive mapping of educational progress, economic status, employment participation, and utilisation of government schemes to enable scientific, objective policymaking. Patole demanded the direct intervention by the Maharashtra State Government to strongly advocate for an independent caste census with the relevant central ministries. Addressing the severe agricultural distress in the state, Patole urged the government to declare a drought in affected regions, including parts of Vidarbha, Western Maharashtra, and Marathwada, where dry spells have damaged standing crops. Comparing the state's response to neighbouring regions, the Congress leader demanded that the state government immediately declare a drought, provide substantial financial assistance to farmers and agricultural labourers, and make urgent arrangements for fodder and water for livestock, echoing relief measures implemented by the Karnataka government.
Centre urges states to utilise cess funds for workers welfare
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday urged state governments to undertake a detailed assessment of the current utilisation of cess funds, identify gaps, and explore new avenues for their effective utilisation, keeping in view the long-term welfare and social security of workers. Addressing the National Conference on Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) here, the minister also called upon states to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the Labour Codes after one year of their implementation and identify areas where more effective execution may be required. He emphasised the need for workshops and orientation programmes for labour law practitioners to facilitate effective implementation of the Codes in letter and spirit. Highlighting the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY) in promoting employment and expanding social security coverage for new entrants to the workforce, the minister urged state governments to undertake focused workshops and engagements with industry and other stakeholders. Such efforts, he noted, would help create greater awareness and ensure that eligible new entrants receive the benefits of the scheme, thereby strengthening the collective efforts towards expanding formal employment and worker welfare. He stressed the importance of sharing best practices among states and ensuring optimum utilisation of BOCW funds to provide wider social security coverage to workers. He further emphasised the need for the labour ecosystem to continuously evolve with changing times, and underlined the need for the Centre and states to remain aligned in their vision and policies for the holistic welfare of BOCW workers. He also emphasised the need to explore measures that can provide workers with greater dignity, honour and self-respect, including the possibility of providing pension support to workers. He further highlighted the growing global demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers, and underscored the need to prepare Indias workforce to meet these emerging opportunities. Mandaviya called for deliberations on international labour mobility, highlighting its significance in the nations economic growth through remittances, and in meeting the aspirations of Bharats Yuva Shakti. He emphasised the need for coordinated efforts by the Centre and states to create a comprehensive platform for international labour mobility, supported by appropriate financial and digital infrastructure, so that Indian workers can access global opportunities while enhancing Indias credibility on the global stage. In his address, Labour & Employment Secretary Dr Chandra Bhushan Kumar drew attention to the significance of the Conference, highlighting the number of construction workers across India, which stands at over 7 crore, and the BOCW cess corpus available in the country, amounting to about Rs 77,000 crore. The deliberations at the Conference provide an opportunity to share best practices and engage with industry partners, he added.
Central Railway ticket booking centres to close after 2 pm on September 14
Central Railways Passenger Reservation System centres will follow Sunday working hours on September 14, 2026, for Ganeshotsav. The second shift from 2 pm to 10 pm will remain closed, while select counters will stay open for emergency services
Maharashtra FDA intensify inspections, conducts 12,083 checks in 3 months
The Tukaram Mundhe-led Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration conducted 12,083 inspections between June and August 2026, issuing 5,269 improvement notices and suspending 603 licences. The FDA also seized food stock worth Rs 67.20 crore and intensified action against banned pan masala and gutkha
Mumbai Ganeshotsav 2026: Bandra mandal creates iconic Somnath Temple replica
Ganeshotsav 2026: Bandra West Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal has created a detailed replica of Gujarat's Somnath Temple, showcasing its architecture and heritage. The installation is part of the mandal's tradition of temple-themed festival dcor
Maharashtra to host job fairs at 18 Mumbai locations on Sept 29, check details
Mumbai Suburban District Collector Saurabh Katiyar has appealed to young people, entrepreneurs and establishments offering job opportunities to participate in large numbers
