Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper to launch next month: Check timings, fare, and route details
The premium Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper is engineered to significantly reduce travel time while providing passengers with state-of-the-art amenities and superior overnight comfort.
Mumbai Indians name Kieron Pollard as head coach ahead of IPL 2027
In a major development, five-time IPL (Indian Premier League) champions Mumbai Indians took centre stage and announced former West Indies international cricketer Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming IPL 2027 season.
Kieron Pollard appointed as head coach for Mumbai Indians
Pollard replaces Mahela Jayawardene, whose two-season second stint ended with a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for the team
Chunky Panday reveals why Bollywood calls him the aloo of the film industry
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 24 (IANS) Actor Chunky Panday brought his trademark humour to the latest episode of Family Full House with Rohit Sharma, where he revealed why he is called the aloo of the film industry. During the Full House round, when asked to name a vegetable commonly found in a mixed vegetable dish, Chunky answered aloo and used the question to make a witty remark about his career in Bollywood. Turning to Rohit Sharma, he asked, Sir, mujhe film industry mein aloo bulate hain, aapko pata hai kyun? (Sir, they call me the potato of the film industry. Do you know why?) He then explained, Mujhe koi bhi film mein daalo, hit ho jaati hai. (Put me in any film, and it becomes a hit.) Rohit responded with an amused Achha! before breaking into laughter at the actors playful claim. The episode featured Karisma Kapoor, Armaan Jain, Aadar Jain and Anissa Malhotra on one team, competing against Chunky Panday, Neelam Kothari, Samir Soni and Sandiip Sikcand. Talking about Chunky Panday's career, it began in the late 1980s and he rose to fame with films such as Tezaab, Aankhen and Vishwatma. Known for his comic timing, he became popular as Aakhri Pasta in the Housefull franchise. Over the years, he has worked across genres in films such as Don, Begum Jaan, Saaho and Housefull 5. For the uninitiated, Chunky Panday was touted among the popular and charming faces of Bollywood during the 1990s. Filmmaker Farah Khan and actor Malaika Arora have both revealed that Chunky was their first crush. Malaika shared a throwback picture of the actor on his birthday in 2022, calling him her first crush, while Farah has also spoken about having a huge crush on him during the 1990s. Filmmaker Ekta Kapoor, too, once confessed to having a crush on the actor.
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man suspected of links to the banned terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed in Mumbai's Mahim area. The ATS's Kalachowki unit apprehended Mohammed Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar near Mahim Metro Station following a tip-off.
Gadag KRIDL engineer found in Mumbai after alleged contractor pressure
Gadag: Assistant Executive Engineer Parvez Dharwad of the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL), who had been missing since September 13, has been traced in Mumbai by Gadag police, Maharashtra. The engineer was found after 40 days of search efforts and is scheduled to be brought back to Gadag on October 24 for questioning. Parvezs 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 .
Hilaria Baldwin pens bday wish for Ireland: Thinking of you so much on this last part of pregnancy
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 24 (IANS) Hollywood star Alec Baldwins wife Hilaria penned a birthday wish for stepdaughter Ireland Baldwin, calling her an amazing, funny, wise and inspiring soul as she celebrated her special day while in the final stages of her pregnancy. Baldwin took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures featuring Ireland and showered love on her, her partner Andre Allen Anjos, their daughter Holland and their baby-to-be. Happy birthday to our beautiful Ireland! You are the most amazing, funny, wise and inspiring soul. We love you so, so, so much! Best human, daughter, mama, sister, stepdaughter Hilaria wrote as the caption. She also recalled the special memory of Ireland singing with her father. Thinking of you so much on this last part of pregnancythank you for brightening up all of our lives we love you and Holland and Andre and baby to be. This song always reminds me of you and your dad singing together @irelandirelandireland she wrote. Hilaria married Alec 2012. The couple and their seven children are the focus of the TLC reality series The Baldwins. Ireland is an fashion model and actress. Baldwin started modeling and acting in 2013 and appeared in the film Grudge Match and in editorials for magazines. Talking about Alec, he has received numerous accolades, including three Primetime Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards and eight Actor Awards as well as nominations for an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and Tony Award. He began film career began with a string of roles in 1988 in films such as Beetlejuice, Working Girl and Married to the Mob before playing Jack Ryan in The Hunt for Red October. He was Oscar-nominated for playing a casino manager in The Cooler and BAFTA-nominated for playing a charming ex-husband in It's Complicated.
Odisha attracts 53,894 crore investment intents at India Chem 2026
The two-day Mumbai outreach yielded nine MoUs and four investment intents across power, chemicals, metals, textiles and agro-processing, with potential for 20,210 jobs
Mumbai Indians Appoint New Head Coach Days After Mahela Jayawardene Steps Down
Kieron Pollard has been promoted to the position of head coach for Mumbai Indians after serving as the batting coach of the side.
Tiger Shroff firing case: Shooters received real-time updates from handler, monitored TV news
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 24 (IANS) The investigation into the firing incident targeting Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff has revealed that the shooters were in constant contact with their handler through phone calls and messages. Investigators suspect that the accused were also receiving real-time updates about the police investigation, including information broadcast on television news channels. According to sources, the shooters remained in touch with their handler during and after the October 18 attack. They were provided with updates about developments in the case and the police operation to identify and apprehend them. Sources said that after information about the shooters' identities and appearances began emerging, the handler instructed them to leave the area. The accused were also reportedly kept informed about news coverage of the incident. Investigators suspect that someone was monitoring television news channels and passing relevant information to the accused. When footage of the shooting and images of the suspects, captured in videos recorded by vloggers, were broadcast, one of the accused, Rehan Ansari, received messages instructing him to leave. However, the identity of the person who monitored television coverage and relayed information to the shooters remains unknown. The police are investigating the communication network used by the accused and their associates. According to police sources, investigators suspect that Anil Pandit, who is believed to be in the US, or Ankit Khattak and Sameer Khatri, who were recently arrested in Sonipat, may have been involved in directing Rehan through Internet-based communication applications. The police have reportedly recovered photographs, videos and details of conversations from the accused. The investigation has also revealed that the suspects allegedly changed their travel plans and modes of transport in response to information about police movements. After the firing at Tiger Shroff's car on October 18, the three alleged shooters fled on motorcycles before travelling to different locations by train and cab. They relied on Internet-based calls instead of conventional mobile networks, making it difficult for investigators to trace their communications. A routine phone conversation between one of the accused and a cab driver reportedly provided the police with an important lead. Acting on information shared by the Mumbai Police, the three suspects were subsequently arrested from a train in Kota, Rajasthan. So far, 10 people have been arrested in connection with the case. The three alleged shooters Phool Singh (18), Rehan Rahimuddin Ansari (18) and Hrithik Mahato (22) remain in police custody until October 31. According to sources in the Mumbai Crime Branch, Randeep Malik, associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, reportedly connected Rehan with Anil Pandit. Another accused, Kunal, is also suspected of having come into contact with Pandit through Malik. Investigators further suspect that individuals who conducted reconnaissance in Mumbai sent photographs of locations associated with the actor to Pandit and Malik. These reportedly included Tiger Shroff's football ground and several locations in the Juhu and Bandra areas. Sources said that the accused allegedly discussed testing the firearm before carrying out the attack. Hrithik reportedly suggested the forests of Aarey Colony for this purpose, as his experience working as a Rapido rider in Mumbai had made him familiar with the area. During interrogation, the accused claimed that Tiger Shroff's praise for actor Salman Khan at an event was among the reasons behind the decision to target him. Sources said investigators were examining these claims. The Crime Branch has not yet established the motive conclusively. Meanwhile, Tiger Shroff is said to have been deeply disturbed by the incident. An officer said the actor told the police during preliminary discussions that he was shocked by the firing and had never imagined that his car would be targeted. The actor reportedly told investigators that he had no personal enmity with anyone and did not know who the attackers were or why they had opened fire. A Crime Branch officer said the actor's statement has not yet been formally recorded because he was distressed following the incident. The police are expected to record his statement soon as the investigation continues.
Mumbai Indians appoint Kieron Pollard as head coach ahead of IPL 2027
Kieron Pollard has been named the head coach of Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2027 season. He takes over the position from Mahela Jayawardene, who has stepped down. Pollard expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and emphasised his connection to the team. The franchise is hopeful that Pollard will help restore their winning form. Mumbai Indians aims to build on their past successes and inspire their fans.
Katherine Schwarzenegger shares proof of Chris Pratts hard work on The Terminal List Season 2
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 24 (IANS) Katherine Schwarzenegger has shared a string of pictures of her husband and actor Chris Pratt sleeping, calling them proof of how hard he worked on the second season of his action thriller series The Terminal List. Expressing pride in the actor, Katherine took to Instagram and said she was excited for audiences to watch the season. Proof he really did work this hard on The Terminal List Season 2. So proud of you @prattprattpratt and everything you poured into this season. Cant wait for everyone to see it. Streaming now on @primevideo!, Schwarzenegger wrote in the caption section. The Terminal List is an action thriller television series created by David DiGilio. It is based on the 2018 novel of the same name by Jack Carr. The series tells the story of a Navy SEAL who seeks to avenge the murder of his family. It stars Chris Pratt, Constance Wu, Taylor Kitsch, Riley Keough, Arlo Mertz, Jeanne Tripplehorn, and Tom Hopper. The first season of The Terminal List was released in 2022. In February 2023, the series was renewed for a second season based upon the follow-up novel, True Believer, which premiered on October 21, 2026. As per the synopsis: After his platoon of US Navy SEALs is ambushed while on a covert mission, Lieutenant Commander Reece returns home to his family with conflicting memories of the event and questions about his culpability. As new evidence emerges, Reece discovers dark forces working against him, endangering not only his life but also the lives of those he loves. Pratt was one of the world's highest-paid actors annually from 2015 to 2017. Through starring in blockbuster franchises and big-budget films, he has established himself as one of Hollywood's most bankable stars. The actor began dating author Schwarzenegger in June 2018. In 2019, Pratt announced their engagement and the couple married the same year.
Kieron Pollard Promoted To Mumbai Indians Head Coach
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians have appointed former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as their head coach, marking a new chapter in his 16-year association with the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions. The franchise announced the elevation on Saturday, October 24, entrusting Pollard with the responsibility of leading the team after he served as its batting coach in recent years. Pollard joined Mumbai Indians at the age of 22 and became a key figure in the franchises most successful period as a player. His transition into coaching has kept him closely involved with the team, giving him an understanding of its culture, personnel and approach to T20 cricket. A prominent figure in the evolution of franchise-based T20 cricket, Pollard brings extensive experience of the formats tactical demands and changing competitive landscape. His time as both a player and batting coach is expected to inform his approach as he takes charge of the team. Reacting to his appointment, Pollard described the role as a significant milestone in his long association with Mumbai Indians and expressed his gratitude to the franchises leadership for placing their trust in him. It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians. MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me. Having experienced this journey as a player and then as a coach, I understand what Mumbai Indians stands for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold. I am grateful to Mrs. Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the entire MI family for their trust in me. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the teams legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate, Pollard said. Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani welcomed the appointment, highlighting Pollards longstanding contribution to the franchise and his familiarity with the expectations associated with representing the team. Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past sixteen years, has become an integral part of our family. As a player, he gave us many unforgettable moments, and as a coach, he has continued to share his experience, passion and deep understanding of the game. We are delighted to see him take on this new responsibility as Head Coach. Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan. I am confident that he will bring the same commitment, belief and determination to this role. I wish him every success as he leads the team into its next chapter, she said. Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani welcomed the appointment, highlighting Pollards longstanding contribution to the franchise and his familiarity with the expectations associated with representing the team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Indians appoint Kieron Pollard as head coach for IPL 2027
Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as head coach for IPL 2027 after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down, ending his decade-long association with the franchise. Co-owner Nita M. Ambani said Pollard, who joined MI as a 22-year-old 16 years ago, understands the teams culture and brings deep experience, passion and commitment to the role.
Man Utds poor on-field performances and Man Citys financial breach allegations have left both rival fanbases on an extremely rare common ground of gloom and anxiety over uncertainty
Address pollution concerns of Govandi residents
Take note of the complaint and check all claims.
Maharashtra ATS Arrests Suspected Terrorist Linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed in Mumbai
Maharashtra ATS apprehends a suspect linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed in Mumbai, revealing attempts to spread extremist propaganda. Maharashtra ATS Arrests Suspected Terrorist Linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed in Mumbai
Kajol shares joyful moments with Jaya Bachchan & Tanuja at Durga Puja, Nysa & Yug serve bhog
Digital Desk | Mumbai, October 24 (IANS) Bollywood star Kajol offered a glimpse into her family-filled Durga Puja celebrations on Friday night. Sharing a montage of videos and photographs she captured moments of devotion, laughter, togetherness and festivity at Mumbais North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. Sharing the compilation on her social media account, Kajol reflected on the emotions that she felt during Durga Puja. Every single year, these few days just fly by in a blur of love, family chaos, and bhog! Seeing everyone come together, laugh till our stomachs hurt, and bow before Maa... theres no feeling like it in the world #DuggaDugga, she wrote. The montage captures Kajol participating in the puja rituals, interacting with family members and sharing lighthearted moments with relatives and friends. Many clips show her children, Nysa Devgn and Yug Devgn, joining the festivities and slap serve bhog to the devotees. Kajol is seen dressed in an elegant red saree in some of the moments, while Nysa opts for a light-coloured traditional outfit and Yug is seen in a red kurta. The compilation also features veteran actor and Kajols mother, Tanuja, as well as her sister, Tanishaa Mukerji. One of the highlights of the celebrations is Kajols fun camaraderie with veteran actor Jaya Bachchan. In a picture shared from the festivities, the two are seen hugging each other tightly. For the uninitiated, Kajol has maintained a longstanding association with the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja. The association has been closely linked to her extended family for generations. The celebrations regularly see members of the Mukerji family come together to welcome devotees and participate in the festivities.
Indian equities extend losses this week as Brent crude oil rises to 6-month high
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 24 (IANS) The macroeconomic environment remains challenging, with crude oil emerging as a key source of uncertainty for domestic markets, analysts said on Saturday, as the Indian equities endured a challenging, holiday-shortened week, with benchmark indices extending their losses. Nifty 50 and Sensex recorded weekly declines of approximately 2.4 per cent and 2.2 per cent, respectively. Both benchmark indices extended their losing streaks to four consecutive sessions. The sell-off spread beyond large-cap stocks, with mid-cap and small-cap indices experiencing sharper declines as investors reduced exposure amid rising uncertainty, said market participants. The Nifty 50 ended the week under pressure, after declining for four consecutive sessions. Persistent selling has weakened the short-term technical structure, with the index struggling to sustain its earlier recovery. The immediate resistance zone is placed around 22,800, followed by 23,000, said analysts. For the Sensex, on the downside, 72,60072,500 forms the immediate support zone. The broader market took the brunt of the de-risking, as valuation concerns and the unwinding of leveraged positions triggered a disproportionately sharp correction in mid- and small-caps, while large-caps held up comparatively better. Across sectors, IT was the lone pocket of resilience, recovering from early selling to end the week largely unchanged on improving earnings visibility and renewed investor appetite. However, rate-sensitive sectors such as consumer durables, metals and realty saw the heaviest selling as input-cost and margin worries resurfaced, said analysts. Brent crude oil rose to a six-month high on Friday. Brent futures gained 3.1 per cent to close at $116.72 a barrel, highest since April 29. US West Texas Intermediate added 3.8 per cent to settle at $103.27 a barrel. Brent added 6.2 per cent for the week, while WTI advanced 2 per cent for the week. According to analysts, sustained increases in crude prices could raise energy and transportation costs, weigh on consumption and intensify pressure on oil-sensitive sectors.
Tribunal rejects fine only for filing I-T return after notice
Tiger Shroff firing case mirrors Baba Siddique murder, police finds similarities
The investigation into the Tiger Shroff firing case has revealed similarities with the 2024 murder of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique. Police are examining alleged advance reconnaissance, three shooters, logistical support, escape arrangements and possible handler networks
Mumbai teen helps farmers get better fix on crop prices
A 17-year-old Std XII student from a South Mumbai school, Ansh Jalan, has developed FasalForward, a platform that compares mandi prices, forecasts crop prices for 30 days and helps farmers decide when to sell or hold their produce
Fatal shooting inside SGNP triggers intensified forest patrols
The fatal shooting during an alleged wild boar hunt inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park has prompted intensified forest patrols and an independent search operation. Investigators have seized two firearms and recovered melted pellets
BMC replaces road-cleaning machines amid growing dust pollution concerns
The BMC has replaced conventional road-cleaning equipment with 29 dust suction machines to curb road dust and air pollution in Mumbai. The civic body also reported progress in bakeries switching to cleaner fuels and recorded 231 days of good or satisfactory air quality till October 22
Maharashtra FDA cancels 29 drug licences, suspends 71 after 937 inspections
The Maharashtra FDA cancelled 29 licences and suspended 71 others after 937 inspections between October 5 and 17. The crackdown led to seizures worth Rs 28.52 lakh, action against unlicensed drug sales and cosmetic manufacturing, and two arrests in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
BMC urges Mumbai students to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali, avoid firecrackers
Amid rising air pollution concerns and the Bombay High Courts firecracker ban, the BMC Education Department has launched a firecracker-free Diwali campaign across Mumbai schools. Students will take pledges, while schools organise poster, video, reel and slogan competitions
Mumbai police track chain-snatching accused using CCTV footage
A blue water bottle and a Rs 20 UPI transaction helped Vakola police crack a chain-snatching case involving a pregnant woman in Santacruz East. After examining footage from 200300 CCTV cameras, investigators traced the accused to Silvassa, where the 22-year-old man was arrested
Bomb threat emails target Mumbai mayors office, Amitabh Bachchans Juhu home
Mumbai and Navi Mumbai were placed on high alert after bomb threat emails targeted Mayor Ritu Tawdes office, Amitabh Bachchans Juhu residence, Diljit Dosanjhs concert venue and VIBGYOR schools. Students were sent home early as police conducted precautionary checks and launched an investigation
Horoscope today, October 24: Check astrological predictions for all zodiac signs
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
Ayush Mhatre undergoes surgery for hamstring injury, sidelined for about three months
Ayush Mhatre underwent right hamstring surgery yesterday (on Thursday) at the Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai, performed by Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, says BCCI source
The Agony of Loss: Learning to Live with It
The pain and agony of losing someone close to you, particularly a parent, is a heavy psychological and physical experience that registers in the brain much like physical trauma. Many people go through the process of grief at some point in their lives; however, it is often unexpected and causes turmoil and upheaval in life. In this state of intense grief, an individual grapples simultaneously with deep mental suffering and physiological pain. Moreover, agony and grief are not merely temporary feelings or passing emotions; they can fundamentally change our personality, outlook on life, and the way we relate to others. Instead of following a neat, linear timeline, grief comes in waves, with intensity that may gradually fade over time rather than disappear completely. It manifests differently for every person, and one does not simply move on from the loss of a loved one; rather, one learns to carry the weight of that loss and live with it. Anyone who has suffered the loss of a loved one experiences an overwhelming sense of helplessness at being unable to prevent that loss. It is in this vulnerable state of mind that we recognise just how fragile life truly is and how unexpectedly its trajectory can change. I personally had to endure the emotional agony of losing my beloved father, Dr Mohd Yousuf Tantray, whom we lovingly called Abu Ji, who had been such a strong and supportive individual in our lives. In our nuclear family of five members, his presence always felt like a world. For us, he is the epitome of love, affection, and dedication both as a father and a husband. Like many Kashmiri families, we often spent time together around the dinner table. I fondly remember his post-dinner conversations where Abu Ji would gently guide us on morals, humility, and clear thinking. His clarity of thought and intellectual humility are qualities we continue to cherish deeply. With a deep commitment to helping others, he devoted his life to teaching and community service. Rising from the position of Lecturer to that of Principal in the Department of Education, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, he earned widespread respect for his honesty, integrity, and strong work ethic. He served as the elected President of the J&K +2 Lecturers Forum for District Anantnag and remained active in community service even after retirement. Holding a PhD in literature, his intellectual passion inspired all three of his children to pursue higher education and academic careers. When I joined the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Bombay in 2023, he was immensely proud. He had always believed in the value of perseverance and hard work, often reminding me, Without hard work, nothing grows but weeds. On a weekday in early October 2025, I had an afternoon flight booked from Mumbai to Srinagar to visit my family in the valley. An urgent morning meeting and Mumbai's notorious traffic nearly made me miss it, and I boarded at the very last moment, excited to be going home after a long time. When I landed in Srinagar, Abu Ji, Mummy, and my younger sibling were waiting to receive me, as they always were. Little did I know that this joy would be short-lived, and that it would be the last time Abu Ji ever received me at the airport. After spending about two precious weeks at home, including a cherished family trip, planned by Abu Ji himself, to Pahalgam on October 13, 2025, my return flight to Mumbai was scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025. On the day of my departure, Abu Ji was dealing with low blood pressure, and it was suggested that he rest at home rather than see me off at the airport. I felt a flicker of concern as I left, but nothing seemed truly alarming, and I flew back to Mumbai. The next day, October 20, 2025, was the eve of Diwali. Although it was a holiday at IIT Bombay, I went to my office to work on some research deadlines. Back home, Abu Ji had been taken to SKIMS, where he had been under treatment since 2024, because his blood pressure had still not stabilised. At 5:30 that evening, my phone rang with the incredibly sad news of the passing of Abu Ji. It was a complete shock, and it felt like the sky had fallen on my head. With few people around because of the festival, the helplessness that I experienced in that moment is something that I cannot forget for the rest of my life. My heart refused to accept what had happened, and I kept clinging to the hope of a miracle. That night, I reached Mumbai airport in a state of utter grief. The terminal was lit up and buzzing with festive cheer, and the contrast was unbearable: while the world around me celebrated, mine had fallen apart. I sat with my head in my hands, tears streaming down my face, and understood a cruel truth about how the world works. Life marches regardless of personal tragedy; my night of agony was someone else's night of celebration. The whole night passed in flights and layovers. When I finally landed in Srinagar the next morning, Abu Ji was not there to receive me. I reached home completely broken, and as the reality unfolded before my eyes, I was left thunderstruck, numb, and shattered. Even now, as a year has passed, it remains difficult to process what transpired on that October day in 2025. It constantly feels as though a part of my body has permanently departed; the pain and agony of losing a reliable shoulder to lean on cannot be fully captured in words. Life can feel profoundly unfair. Yet, carrying this enduring suffering becomes an act of expressing love for the departed. In grief, faith offers consolation that reason alone cannot. The Quran reminds us (Al-Baqarah 2:155156): We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, who, when disaster strikes them, say, Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return. May Allah grant Abu Ji the highest abode in Jannah, and grant all who mourn the patience to bear their loss. (The author is working as a Research Staff Member at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru and can be reached at: azharyousuf@iisc.ac.in )
Bomb threat emails to Mumbai Mayors office, three Navi Mumbai schools trigger security alert
Prompted by the threat, law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to verify the authenticity of the message
Bomb threat emails to Mumbai Mayors office, three Navi Mumbai schools trigger security alert
Prompted by the threat, law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to verify the authenticity of the message
Farmers call 5,000 aid a cruel joke, threaten rally to Mumbai on Oct 26 if demands remain unmet
Bomb Threat Emails Target Mumbai Mayors Office, Schools, Bachchan Home; Searches Find Nothing
Maharashtra moves HC against central food safety regulations; says these usurp state govts powers
Maharashtra govt pushes for AYUSH integration in state-run health facilities
Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation announces water cuts in Uran on Tuesdays and Fridays
Thane braces for water crisis as weekly cuts threaten 2.5 dry days
Tiger Shroff targeted for praising Salman Khan in 2022, shooter tells police
Tiger Shroff firing: 3 Haryana men helped shooters escape, say police
ED files FIR over trespassing at Thane flat linked to Dawoods brothers case
The Enforcement Directorate has filed an FIR after alleged trespassing at a Thane West flat attached in a money laundering investigation linked to Iqbal Kaskar. The agency restored possession after alleged lock tampering and removal of a possession notice
Jarange clip: Sena neta targets BJP as Maha CM orders probe
Saudi Arabia attacks: Embassy updates on injured Indians, issues safety advisory
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia has shared medical updates on Indian nationals injured in attacks in Dammam, Riyadh and Shaybah. It also urged Indians to follow local laws and avoid photographing or sharing visuals of interceptions and impact sites
Man Killed In Hit-and-Run During Morning Walk In Kalyan, Police Seize Car and Detain Driver
Ulhasnagar MLA Urges MMRDA to Delay Shahad Bridge Demolition
No events, weddings at Cuffe Parade garden, Bombay High Court directs BMC
Mumbai Police Extern 13 Habitual Offenders From City for Two Years
Raigad Zilla Parishad Student Injured as Classroom Plaster Collapses
Mumbai Cyber Police Arrest Father-Son Duo in Rs 26 Lakh Scam Case
Financial titans to converge at the BFSI Insight Summit 2026 in Mumbai
This edition will be the biggest yet, and will also introduce the Smart Investor Arena - a segment of the summit where conversations will focus on matters concerning investors' personal finances
FDA suspends licences of 2 establishments in Mumbai
Missing KRIDL AEE found in Mumbai after 40 days
Jordan church shooting: 7 killed, 34 hurt in terror attack as gunmen open fire
A manhunt was underway to track down those responsible. The terrorist attack against Karak will be met with the harshest retaliation, King Abdullah said in a post on X. Of the 34 injured, 27 were still receiving treatment
In U-turn, BMC seeks private partner to run revamped Bhagwati Hospital in Mumbai for 30 years
Mumbai Police are investigating a bomb threat email that reportedly named Amitabh Bachchan's residence, Jalsa, and Diljit Dosanjh's upcoming concert at Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The development comes days after shots were fired at Tiger Shroff's car in Mumba
Halloween 2026 Events To Attend In Mumbai: Guide To Parties And Themed Get-Togethers
Maharashtra: 282 Navy Agniveers appointed as police constables, says CM Fadnavis
All 282 Agniveers 150 Seaman Deckside and 132 Seaman Engineside personnel have been appointed as police constables, and their appointment orders have been issued. On September 29, the cabinet approved direct recruitment of retired Agniveers into the police force and allied uniformed services
2 passengers injured as part of ceiling collapses near CSMT booking office
Bombay High Court dismisses plea against demolition of Goregaon building
Sion bridge reopens, bringing relief to BEST bus commuters after months of detour
Mumbai air pollution: Pankaja Munde announces clean air action plan for MMR
Integrated measures will be planned for the MMR through a clean air action programme. Special efforts will be made to reduce road dust, including the use of vacuum cleaning machines, sprinkling water through sprinklers and making it mandatory to completely cover vehicles transporting construction debris, Munde said
Navratri26 Mumbai property registrations fall 25% YoY
Revenue collections declined less sharply than registration volumes
BMC invites bids to run 490-bed Borivali hospital under 30-year PPP model
The civic body said the arrangement would bring in private investment and medical expertise while ensuring that ownership of the hospital remains with the BMC. At least 50 per cent of the hospitals beds will be reserved for BMC patients and beneficiaries of government healthcare schemes
Indian Players Shine In Mumbai Open ITF Semifinals
India's Karan Singh and Digvijay Pratap Singh have secured their spots in the singles semifinals of the Mumbai Open ITF Men's M25 Tennis Championship. Other Indian players also advanced, while the doubles competition saw two Indian pairs reach the final.
Delhi HC rejects AISA president Neha Boras plea against peace bond notice
The Delhi High Court rejected AISA president Neha Boras plea challenging a notice requiring her to furnish a Rs 10,000 personal bond with one surety to maintain peace. The court directed disclosure of materials relied upon in the inquiry and asked the magistrate to exercise due care
IIT-B student suicide: Father seeks FIR over leak of CCTV footage, private telephonic conversations
Maharashtra: FDA seizes food stock worth Rs 79.97 lakh in statewide crackdown
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) In a major crackdown on food safety violations, Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized approximately 35.547 tonnes of food stock worth an estimated Rs 79.97 lakh during a special statewide inspection drive, aimed at curbing the sale and distribution of potentially unsafe food products and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Division witnessed the largest seizure during the drive, with officials confiscating 32.639 tonnes of food stock from five locations. The seized goods were valued at more than Rs 65.80 lakh, making this the most significant action undertaken during the special inspection campaign. In another major operation, the FDAs Nashik Division seized 2,908 kilograms of spices and ajwain from two locations. The total value of the confiscated stock was estimated at Rs 14.16 lakh. An official said that the seizure speaks volumes about the departments focus on inspecting food products that are widely used in everyday cooking and ensuring that they meet prescribed quality and safety standards. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the FDA suspended the licences of two food establishments after inspections revealed unhygienic conditions and violations of applicable rules. Officials claim that the action is a clear pointer to the departments efforts to hold food business operators accountable for maintaining proper hygiene and adhering to mandatory food safety requirements. The statewide inspection drive forms part of the FDAs broader efforts to strengthen food safety enforcement and prevent the sale of substandard or potentially unsafe food products, said officials. By conducting inspections at multiple locations and taking action against establishments found violating regulations, the department aims to protect consumers from health risks associated with unsafe food handling, storage and distribution, officials added. The substantial quantity and value of the seized stock indicate the scale of enforcement undertaken during the campaign. The action also sends a strong message to manufacturers, traders and food business operators that violations of food safety norms will invite regulatory action.
Pankaj Tripathi is set to make his hosting debut at the IIFA Digital Awards 2027, but the actor admitted that the responsibility has left him nervous. Known for his soft-spoken nature, Pankaj will share hosting duties with his Mirzapur co-stars Ali Fazal and Abhishek Banerjee at the ceremony scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi next year. The trio recently attended the IIFA 2027 press conference in Mumbai, where they spoke about their upcoming hosting responsibilities and shared a glimpse of their camaraderie off screen. While Ali Fazal discussed the box-office performance of Mirzapur The Movie, Pankaj opened up about his apprehensions about taking the stage as a host for the first time. Ali Fazal Talks About Mirzapur The Movie's Box-Office Performance Mirzapur The Movie collected in excess of Rs. 200 crores at the domestic box office. Reflecting on the film's performance, Ali spoke about its contribution to theatrical business at the press conference. Hosting is fine, but this year we have contributed to the box office in a little way. He further expressed gratitude for the response the film received from audiences, adding, We are very happy with all the love. We managed to bring a few people to the theatres with our film Mirzapur, Ali added. Pankaj Tripathi Opens Up About His IIFA 2027 Hosting Debut While Abhishek Banerjee recalled hosting the IIFA Awards twice and Ali Fazal mentioned his previous experience at the event, Pankaj will be stepping into the role for the first time. Introducing him to the stage, Ali said, Theres a third person who will be hosting for the first time, so we want to give him a little warm-up. Lets welcome Pankaj Tripathi to the stage. Speaking about his upcoming stint, Pankaj admitted that hosting was unfamiliar territory for him. He said, I am very scared because I am not used to hosting. I am soft spoken. I talk slowly, and I have seen people often shout while hosting. So I am scared who will listen to my soft speech there. The actor also offered a humorous take on how he plans to approach the responsibility, saying, I will make my hosting feel spiritual. It should feel like this man will transform life today. I will transform the audience, their soul with my hosting. Their lives will change. It wont be just an award. I will be more of a ghost than a host. I might make mistakes. All About IIFA 2027 The 26th edition of the IIFA Awards will be held at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on January 22 and 23, 2027. The IIFA Digital Awards will take place at the Etihad Arena on January 22, with Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal and Abhishek Banerjee hosting the event. The ceremony will also feature performances by Himesh Reshammiya and Sunidhi Chauhan. The main awards ceremony, scheduled for January 23, will see Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Ananya Panday and Maniesh Paul take on hosting duties. The IIFA Awards 2027 will also be livestreamed on YouTube. Also Read : Pankaj Tripathi celebrates Durgashtami and Dussehra in Kolkata with family: The city has always held a very special place in my heart
Fake maritime job rackets: DGMA, RPSL holders launch campaign
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) The Directorate General of Marine Administration (DGMA) has launched a major campaign to raise awareness among seafarers regarding fake job rackets in the maritime sector. In 2025-26 itself, scammers have got away with crores of rupees from unsuspecting mariners by offering them high-paying jobs on merchant vessels. Worst still, important documents belonging to the victims have been compromised. A genuine-looking job offer isnt enough. Verify before you trust. Before accepting a recruitment offer, check whether the recruiter is authorised, verify the job details and stay cautious of unusual payment demands. Never let urgency override verification. Take a moment to check. Make an informed decision. Protect your career at sea, the DGMA has said as part of its campaign. Several genuine Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) holders and shipping companies have also joined the drive to create awareness about such scams. Hundreds of seafarers across India lose money, personal documents, and career momentum to fake maritime job offers every year. These scams have grown more sophisticated since 2020, and in 20252026 alone, police have filed cases involving crores of rupees stolen from job-seeking mariners, one such company has said in its notice. The victims range from fresh deck cadets searching for their first ship to experienced officers looking for a better contract, an official said. It has been clearly mentioned that genuine shipping companies and licensed RPSL holders will never ask applicants to pay for a job, visa, joining ticket, or processing fee. Hence, any demand for money before a mariner boards a vessel is a major red flag. Genuine RPSL holders never charge seafarers for employment or placement. All visa and medical costs are borne by the shipowner. Fake maritime job offers typically involve unrealistic salaries, no experience required promises, or fast promotions, and almost always demand advance payments or full document scans upfront, an RPSL holder said. Those applying for jobs should verify a recruiters RPSL status on the official DG Shipping portal before sharing documents or travelling to join a vessel. As of October 2026, there are 538 valid RPSL holders, 396 agencies with invalid or expired licenses, and 66 agencies that are temporarily suspended from recruiting, it has been mentioned. The scammers offer fraudulent employment proposals for positions on merchant vessels, cruise ships, or offshore platforms. The aim is to extract money, personal documents, or both from seafarers. Unlike generic job scams targeting office workers, these schemes specifically exploit the maritime industrys structures: RPSL numbers, CDC requirements, COC certificates, and the urgency of crew changes. Maritime recruitment scams often target job-seeking seafarers who are under financial or career pressure to find their next ship, the licence holder said. Things have got worse with people relying heavily on digital modes of communication for all requirements. WhatsApp groups, Telegram channels, Facebook pages, and even LinkedIn profiles now serve as primary channels for distributing fake jobs. Fraudsters set up offices or use co-working spaces in crewing hotspots like Navi Mumbai and Chennai, register a company name with India Private Limited or Marine Services Pvt Ltd in it, and begin advertising positions that look remarkably similar to those offered by legitimate ship management private limited firms. The fraudsters have also become increasingly fluent in DG Shipping terminology. They casually reference RPSL numbers, MLC compliance, CDC endorsements, and flag-state requirements to sound legitimate.
PGTI, Essar partner to launch new annual tournament on Indias professional golf calendar
The inaugural edition will take place at Mumbais Willingdon Sports Club from January 1215, 2027 and will feature a prize purse of 2 crore
MPSC paper leak: 13 arrested as Assistant Section Officer is held in Navi Mumbai
Another middleman was arrested earlier this month; question sets for the Drug Inspector examination were allegedly leaked from the MPSCs confidential section for money
Watch: Rubios India visit: What did the U.S. really want? | Worldview
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits India for the second time in five months, with stops in Mumbai and Jamnagar and talks on trade, energy and connectivity. As Rubio and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar prepare for the next Modi-Trump talks, have differences over trade, tariffs, Russian oil and immigration been bridged? In this episode of WorldView, we examine five key takeaways from the visit and five unanswered questions.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) Singer Mika Singh has said that his brother Daler Mehndi does not want the Uttarakhand controversy to be dragged further following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis apology on behalf of state minister Subodh Uniyal. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Mika said he has brought the Daler Mehndi controversy to a close after CM Dhamis apology. He added that Daler called him on Friday morning and asked him not to let the matter be dragged further. He further said that CM Dhami has invited both brothers to Uttarakhand, and they would soon visit the state to perform. Talking about an artists responsibility towards the audience, Mika raised the question of whether a performer should take the stage when unwell, given their accountability to the people who come to watch them perform. He also held a press conference, where he said, Just this morning, I spoke with my elder brother, dear friend, and someone I hold in high regard, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami. Whenever I visit Dehradun, he meets me with great warmth and is extremely down-to-earth. The way he communicated with Daler Paaji and me was very polite and humble. He offered an apology on behalf of the Minister, and though I told him it wasn't necessary since he made no mistake. Mika added, The problem is that this happened to my brother, who is completely innocent and did nothing wrong. What was I supposed to doif I kept making video statements back-to-back, people would say this is all I do. However, I carefully thought it through and recorded a video at night, and when I called Paaji the next day, he broke down crying because he was emotional. On top of that, I can be quite straightforward and tend to scold him for agreeing to things, but before I could even say anything, he started crying like a child... He further mentioned, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire Bollywood industry, the people of Punjab, and all of Daler Paajis fans for the immense support shown after watching the video where he was scolded. It felt very wrong to see Daler Paaji spoken to in that manner, as reprimanding someone publicly nowadayswhether at school or collegesparks widespread controversy. Even during my 23 years of struggle, no one ever scolded me like that, except once in my childhood at a wedding when I ate before the guests arrived, which was my mistake. For the unversed, Daler Mehndis performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Uttarakhand became a subject of controversy after state minister Subodh Uniyal stopped his show midway. The minister alleged that Mehndi was under the influence of alcohol and lip-syncing during the religious Navratri event. Following the incident, several personalities from the entertainment industry, including Mika Singh, Palash Sen, Kapil Sharma, Ila Arun, Anupam Kher, and Sudesh Lehri, voiced their support for Daler Mehndi.
Clean air action plan to be implemented for Mumbai Metropolitan Region: Maha Minister
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) To curb air pollution in Mumbai and surrounding areas, Maharashtra Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde on Friday said that strict measures will be implemented to control road dust, transport and disposal of construction debris, industrial pollution, and vehicular emissions. Emphasising that sweeping alone is insufficient, she announced that road dust reduction will rely on vacuum cleaning machines, water sprinkling using sprinklers, and mandatory complete covering of vehicles transporting construction debris. Integrated measures will be formulated through the Clean Air Action Plan for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Minister Munde, at the review meeting amid deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, stressed the need to pay special attention to road dust and re-suspended dust caused by vehicular movement. As these factors contribute significantly to pollution, sweeping methods must change. Merely sweeping dust to the side with a broom does not reduce pollution; hence, the deployment of vacuum cleaning machines must be increased. Additionally, she suggested exploring the feasibility of using treated wastewater for water sprinkling. She instructed municipal corporations to procure the necessary machinery to curb air pollution and adopt technical solutions for road cleaning, dust suppression, and regular air quality monitoring. Furthermore, Minister Munde suggested considering appropriate measures to mitigate dust in open grounds of schools and colleges. Extensive construction and redevelopment projects are underway across the MMR, making the transport and disposal of generated debris a crucial aspect of pollution control. Vehicles carrying debris must keep construction materials fully covered. Minister Munde directed the Traffic Police Department not to let non-compliant vehicles go with just a fine, but to prevent them from proceeding until full compliance is ensured. She urged the Traffic Police to strictly enforce existing regulations. Minister Munde noted that several municipal corporations face difficulties due to a lack of adequate sites for dumping construction debris. Therefore, a coordinated system for debris collection, transport, processing, and recycling is essential. Municipal corporations in Mumbai and nearby areas should explore the joint utilisation of available space. Along with developing independent disposal systems, she encouraged promoting the processing and reuse of debris in construction activities. Guidelines in this regard will be prepared over the next 15 to 20 days. Separate meetings will be conducted with relevant local bodiesincluding the Panvel, Kalyan, and Mumbai municipal corporationsto address their specific challenges, Minister Munde clarified. To curb industrial pollution, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board must ensure actual compliance alongside inspections. Strict action must be taken against industries that fail to adhere to rules despite repeated checks. However, Minister Munde emphasised that the goal is not to shut down every industry, but to ensure necessary corrective improvements. It was observed that older machinery and outdated production processes in certain industrial areas contribute to rising pollution levels. Site-specific solutions tailored to local conditions are required. She instructed MPCB to increase visit frequencies and strictly verify post-inspection compliance. Attention will also be directed toward vehicle maintenance, strict enforcement of pollution controls, and dust generated during transport. Traffic police and related agencies must work in coordination to monitor vehicles transporting construction material. Minister Munde underlined the necessity of effective action against offending vehicles. She highlighted the need for green initiatives to mitigate environmental impacts caused by rising construction, concrete roads, and open dust in urban zones. She instructed officials to conduct a technical study on developing rooftop gardens on buildings, adopting eco-friendly structural design changes in construction, and implementing dust control measures in urban open spaces. While Mumbai's coastal location aids air circulation, reliance on natural conditions alone is insufficient to reduce pollution. Coordinated efforts across road dust, construction debris, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution are essential. Minister Munde urged all municipal corporations and relevant departments to collectively prepare and effectively execute a joint action plan.
Online gaming deal leads to kidnapping of Nashik youth; GRP rescues him from Haryana
Maharashtra heatwave: Amravati hottest at 37.4 degrees Celsius
Mumbai City recorded a maximum temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, 3.3 degrees above normal, while the Santacruz observatory (representative of the suburbs) registered 37.1 degrees Celsius, 2.9 degrees above normal. The city also continued to experience warm nights
FDA suspends licence of BEST canteen in Borivali
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licence of a BEST canteen in Mumbai's Borivali West due to unhygienic conditions and violations of food safety regulations. This action is part of a broader statewide inspection drive that led to the seizure of approximately 35,547 kg of food stock worth an estimated Rs 79.97 lakh across various divisions, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Nashik.
Maharashtra FDA suspends licences of two Mumbai food establishments
The reported deficiencies at the Mumbai establishments included unhygienic kitchen and drainage conditions, rusted racks and utensils, the mixing of returned pav with fresh pav, incomplete temperature records, absence of workers medical certificates and use of unauthorised food colours in sweets
RBI's net dollar purchases hit record $43.3 billion in August
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recorded its highest-ever monthly net dollar purchases in August, buying a net $43.26 billion from the foreign exchange market as funds mobilised under its concessional swap facility flowed back to the central bank, it was announced on Friday. According to the RBI's monthly bulletin, the central bank purchased $74.47 billion during August while selling $31.21 billion, resulting in net purchases of $43.26 billion. The figure was more than double the net purchase of $18.65 billion recorded in July. The sharp increase was largely driven by dollars raised under the RBI's concessional swap window for FCNR(B) deposits, external commercial borrowings (ECBs) and overseas foreign currency borrowings. The funds mobilised by banks under the scheme were routed back to the central bank through the swap facility. The RBI had advanced the closure of the facility to August 31 from the earlier deadline of September 30 after banks mobilised $52.3 billion under the programme by August 14. The latest data also reflects a significant shift in the RBI's foreign exchange operations. The central bank had been a net seller of dollars in 10 of the 17 months through August and sold dollars continuously between August and December 2025. After pausing sales in January and February 2026, it resumed net selling in March. However, the trend reversed in FY27. Following net dollar sales in April and May, the RBI turned a net buyer in June and sharply stepped up purchases in July and August. As a result, cumulative net dollar purchases in the current financial year rose to $47.43 billion by the end of August, compared with $4.17 billion at the end of July, nearly offsetting the $53.13 billion of net dollar sales recorded during the whole of FY26. The central bank's forward market book also expanded significantly. The RBI's outstanding net short dollar position in the forward market surged to a record $200.06 billion at the end of August, up from $136.77 billion in July, reflecting an increase of around $63 billion in a single month. Short-dollar positions with maturities of less than one year increased to $55.15 billion from $47.66 billion, while positions with maturities exceeding one year nearly doubled to $176.57 billion from $91.54 billion. At the same time, the RBI's long dollar positions increased sharply to $31.66 billion at the end of August from $2.43 billion a month earlier. Since all of these positions mature within one month, the central bank's net short position in contracts maturing within one year declined to around $23.5 billion in August from $45.2 billion in July after adjusting for long positions.
Godrej Properties lines up 32,000 crore of launches in second half of FY27
The Mumbai-based developer aims to hit its 39,000 crore full-year sales target on the back of premium project rollouts, even as higher expenses weighed on its September-quarter profit.
Airlines demand capacity proof as Adani Airport pushes Mumbai-Navi Mumbai shift
Airlines have asked Adani-run Mumbai airport to prove it must cut about 5 million passengers a year of capacity before moving some international flights to Navi Mumbai.
Petrol Diesel Prices October 23, 2026: Check Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Other Cities
Petrol and Diesel Price Today, October 23, 2026: Fuel prices remain an important part of household budgets, particularly for people who travel daily by car or motorcycle. Changes in petrol, diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) rates can directly affect commuting expenses, transportation costs and...
BMC removes 12 illegal structures, takes action against 60 hawkers in Dadar
The BMC carried out an anti-encroachment drive in Dadar on October 23, removing 12 unauthorised structures, temporary sheds and platforms and taking action against 60 hawkers. The operation was conducted under the civic bodys Pedestrian First campaign to keep footpaths clear
Can an act of devotion become an expression of contemporary design without losing its meaning? Nilaya Anthologys latest showcase, The Art of Offering, explores the question through four distinct perspectives
How do you conduct a free and fair election in a country where millions of people cannot read, birth certificates and official records are scarce, communication infrastructure is limited, and the machinery required to organize a nationwide election has never existed before?Thats the crux of the story of filmmaker Rahul Dholakias upcoming Netflix film, Hum Hindustani. Starring Saif Ali Khan, Pratik Gandhiand Deepak Dobriyal in lead roles, alongsideMimi Chakraborty, Sarika, and Shraddha Dangar, Hum Hindustanirevisitsa landmark chapter of Indian history: Indias first general election held between 1951 and 1952. Set in the fragile early years of Independence, the filmcentres on a group of officials tasked with overcoming extraordinary administrative, logistical and social challenges to bring an entire nation into the democratic process for the first time, at a scale never attempted before. Speaking exclusively toBollywood Hungama,Dholakia says the story began when he started reading extensively about elections while hunting for a new subject after the release of his Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Raees. Later in 2019, when the CAA protest erupted over the passing of the Citizenship Amendment Act, which allegedly undermines India's secular principles by discriminating against Muslims in its provisions for granting citizenship to certain religious minorities from neighbouring countries, hebegan asking a basic question: how did Indian democracy actually begin? His research led him to the 1951-52 elections when India invented the machinery of the worlds largest democracy from almost nothing. I was wondering what the origin of democracy was in our country and how it started. And then I came across a very interesting story about the way our first election happened and also a parallel subplot, which is a very important plot in my film, about how the princely states did not want democracy to happen, Dholakia revealed.That discovery became the foundation for Hum Hindustani. How do you know youre an Indian? The extraordinary challenge of Indias First Election For Dholakia, the most fascinating aspect of the story is the monumental administrative undertaking behind the first general election. Think about the context: In the 1950s, we were still in the telegram age. Communication systems were limited. There were no computers or modern databases to maintain and collect people's records. Gandhi was no more; refugees were coming in, there was chaos all over the place, and communal riots were happening.It was a daunting task by every means. To overcome every challenge and to come out victorious and set an example for the rest of the world that is the story, explained the director, who has previously helmed films such as Parzania (2005), Lamha (2010), Raees (2017) and Agni (2024). Dholakia highlighted the scale of the challenge in a country where nearly 80% of people were illiterate. The most basic questions presented extreme challenges. We have never done this before. How do you have birth certificates? How do you know you are an Indian? How do you know you are not? The Election Commission had to develop procedures, build infrastructure, and authorize the identities of citizens despite comprehensive documentation. We didn't even know how tomake the ballot papers and ballot boxes. We had to do it without pretty much help, without the help of the British Empire, because they were gone post-independence.There was no money. And we had to do a free and fair election, Dholakia said. The achievement therefore becomes even more significant when viewed against the social realities of the time. The general election successfullybrought people from vastly different linguistic, religious, caste, and economic backgrounds into a common democratic process. By comparison, the United States still restricted African-American voting in many places into the 1960s, and parts of Europe lagged on womens suffrage. India set out to do it all at once and largely succeeded. Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Brahmins, Dalits, name them, brotherhood, no matter caste, age, male, female, rich, poor, zamindar, kisan, all in one line to vote, Dholakia said. How creatively difficult it is to translate such a historically significant but complex episode into a compelling film? For Dholakia, it was turning record-keeping, voter listing, identity verification and ballot logistics into something visual and propulsive while retaining the historical authenticity of the events. A lot of the detailing is actually clerical work which they do, and that makes it quite boring cinematically. So, it was a challenge trying to write it visually for the visual medium. Interestingly, Hum Hindostani was not always conceived to be a feature film. Given the breadth of the subject and the multiple strands of the narrative, Dholakia had also developed it as a limited series before eventually setting it in the feature film format. Series was definitely on the cards because we had written a structural breakdown when I was supposed to do this for someone, but eventually that did not happen. I had worked out a series, a flow chart of a series. Its a good subject to be explored as a limited series. But then I had also written this as a film, and I just think that sometimeswhat people agree to make becomes the material and becomes the medium, revealed the filmmaker. Why Hum Hindustani feels more relevant than ever amid the current Election Commission controversy Hum Hindustaniis expected to premiere in November 2026, though the date hasnt been officially announced yet. The film arrives at a strikingly relevant moment.India's electoral institutions themselves are facing intense public and political scrutiny, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar facing demands for his resignation amid controversy surrounding the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Allegedly, more than 130 million names have been removed from draft lists across dozens of states and territories, according to an investigative report by Indian Express.Youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and leading opposition parties are seeking electoral reforms and the resignation of Kumar over allegations of manipulating voters' lists. Hum Hindustani, however,should not be mistaken for a direct commentary on the present-day Election Commission. It's broadly a period film about howadministrators of independent India had to create an electoral system almost from scratch, bringing millions of people into a democratic process despite limited resources and infrastructure. It revisits the birth of India's electoral democracy and the extraordinary lengths to which the country's first election administrators went to ensure that millions of citizens could participate. There's a line in the film: Every Indian should be allowed to vote. Hum Hindustani celebrates the effort taken to find every Indian and make that person a voter, Dholakia signed off. Hum Hindustani was announced during its 2026 slate launch in February 2026. Produced by Nikkhil Advanis Emmay Entertainment, the film was mainly shot in Rajasthan and Mumbai between March and June 2025. The film marks Saif Ali Khans third collaboration with Netflix following Sacred Games and Kartavya. Also Read: Netflix announces Hum Hindustani: Saif Ali Khan and Pratik Gandhi lead a powerful story from Indias First Election
KDMC announces water cut in parts of Kalyan, Dombivli on Oct 27; check details
According to the statement, issued by the KDMC Water Supply Department, the shutdown is required for electrical and mechanical maintenance at the Barave, Mohili, Netivali and Titwala water treatment plants
