Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumars Golmaal 5 to hit theatres in January 2027
Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumars Golmaal 5, directed by Rohit Shetty, is reportedly set to release in January 2027. The comedy brings back franchise favourites, including Arshad Warsi, Shreyas Talpade, Kunal Kemmu and Tusshar Kapoor
Golmaal 5 gets release date; Rohit Shetty, Ajay Devgn and team promise new year madness
The Golmaal franchise is returning to the big screen with its fifth instalment. Golmaal 5 is set to release in cinemas on January 8, 2027, bringing back the comedy series for another round of madness,...
Adani Group renews IOA partnership, extends support for Team India
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 19 (IANS) The Adani Group has renewed its association with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) as Principal Sponsor, extending its support for Team India as the countrys athletes compete at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The partnership will cover the ongoing Asian Games, being held from September 19 to October 4, and continue beyond the continental event. The association was also in place during the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026, where India finished fourth in the medal standings with 39 medals, 13 gold, 17 silver and nine bronze. The renewed partnership comes at a significant juncture for Indian sport, with Ahmedabad scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and India continuing its bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036. IOA President and Olympian PT Usha welcomed the continuation of the association, pointing to the role of institutional support as Indian athletes prepare for major international competitions. Indias performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow reflects the talent and growing strength of our athletes. We are grateful to the Adani Group for continuing its association with the Indian Olympic Association. As we look ahead to the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, such support will be important in helping our athletes prepare and compete at their best. We look forward to continuing this association as Indian sport moves forward, she said. The Adani Group said its sports-related initiatives span grassroots programmes, athlete support, community participation and professional sport. Its Garv Hai initiative has supported Indian athletes, while its grassroots academies focus on developing talent across multiple sports. The group has also backed fitness and mass-participation initiatives through the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon, whose 10th edition is scheduled for November 29, besides its involvement in professional sporting leagues through franchise ownership. The renewal therefore extends the Groups existing involvement with Indian sport as the country enters another major phase of its international sporting calendar.
Hetmyer Hundred In Vain As Kingsmen Rally To Reach CPL 2026 Final
Jamaica Kingsmen overcame the Guyana Amazon Warriors to reach the 2026 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final in a thrilling match at the Kensington Oval. This victory for the Jamaican franchise gives them a chance to claim the CPL in the year they returned to the competition when they face the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons on Sunday. The Guyana Amazon Warriors set a very challenging target of 207 thanks to Shimron Hetmyers second hundred of the season with Shai Hope and Quentin Sampson giving him excellent support throughout the innings. At the halfway stage it seemed that runs on the board in a knockout game would be enough to see the Amazon Warriors through to their fourth consecutive CPL final, but a blistering start from Maaz Sadaqat and a classy half century from Keacy Carty set up the Kingsmen victory which was sealed by Hassan Khan hitting four runs to reach the victory target. In the opening overs the Warriors batters struggled to get going once again as they reached 37/2 at the end of the Power Play. This was a similar position to where the Guyanese franchise had found themselves against the Falcons before they collapsed to 76 all out a day earlier. Here things were very different with Hetmyer batting brilliant in an innings that had more sixes than fours and insane level of power hitting. He reached his hundred from the last ball of the innings when he slashed Andre Russell over third for four having faced just 45 balls. In reply the Kingsmen were once again thankful for the Power Play efforts of Sadaqat who made 41 from just 17 balls. The fact that the score was 42/1 when Khary Pierre took a steepling catch to remove him shows just how dominate he was in the opening exchanges. The quick rate at which Sadaqat scored allowed Carty and Kirk McKenzie time to get themselves set and get the rate needed under control. It looked as if Jamaica were cruising to the victory but there was a twist to come as lost the wickets of Carty, Saim Ayub, Russell to give them a few jitters in the closing moments. With Rovman Powell there at the end they managed to stay calm and he has once again led a Jamaican team to the CPL just as he did in 2022. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Sundays final is a mouthwatering clash that sees two in form teams replay the very first game of this years CPL to decide who takes the 2026 honours.
Former Jharkhand Minister Vimla Pradhan Passes Away in Ranchi
Vimla Pradhan, a former minister and BJP leader in Jharkhand, has passed away in Ranchi, leaving a significant void in the political landscape. Former Jharkhand Minister Vimla Pradhan Passes Away in Ranchi
Digital Desk | Cuttack, Sep 19 (IANS) The Odisha T20 League CM Trophy is all set to kick off on Sunday at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Six teams, Keonjhar Miners, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Kataka Panthers, Puri Titans, Rourkela Superstars and Sambalpur Warriors will battle it out for the ultimate glory. The Keonjhar Miners franchise sees its entry into the Odisha T20 League as an opportunity to build more than just a cricket team, with a focus on creating a strong regional identity and providing a platform for young talent from Keonjhar and across Odisha. Speaking about the vision behind the franchise, owner Manish Khemmka said, For us, the Keonjhar Miners is about much more than cricket. Keonjhar has a very strong connection with OCL and with our broader journey in Odisha, and we felt that a sporting franchise was a natural way to deepen that relationship with the region. Cricket has a unique ability to bring people together, create aspirations and give young people a platform to express themselves. Our vision is to build the Keonjhar Miners into a team that the people of Keonjhar and Odisha can genuinely identify with and feel proud of, he further said. Over time, we would like the Miners to represent three things talent, opportunity and a strong regional identity. We are looking at this as a long-term association, not simply as participation in one tournament, he further added. The franchise also believes the Odisha T20 League can play an important role in widening the pathway for young cricketers from districts outside the traditional cricketing centres. I think it is extremely important. One of the biggest strengths of a state-level league is that it creates a structured platform where young cricketers can compete in a professional environment and demonstrate their ability. Odisha has considerable cricketing talent beyond the traditional centres, and leagues like this can help widen the pathway for players from different districts. The OCA has also articulated the objective of creating opportunities for Odishas players and providing a pathway for them to progress to the next level. For us, the opportunity is particularly meaningful because the Keonjhar identity gives us a natural platform to connect with young talent from the region. We want aspiring cricketers to believe that they dont necessarily have to come from one of the traditional cricketing centres to get noticed. If they have the talent, dedication and discipline, there should be a pathway for them, he said. Looking beyond the tournament, the franchise is also keen to develop grassroots programmes and strengthen its engagement with the local community. Our ambition is to build something that lasts beyond the ten days of the tournament. The first step is to establish the Keonjhar Miners as a strong sporting identity and build a genuine connection with our supporters. Over the longer term, we would like to explore grassroots cricket programmes, talent identification camps, coaching initiatives and engagement with schools and local communities in Keonjhar and across Odisha. The objective would be to identify promising young players early and give them access to better coaching, competition and exposure, Khemmka noted. At the same time, we want the fans to feel that this is their team. That means taking the Miners beyond the cricket ground, engaging with communities, involving young people and creating experiences around the team. Ultimately, if a young boy or girl in Keonjhar starts dreaming of playing professional cricket because they saw the Keonjhar Miners, and if the community starts seeing the team as a source of pride for the region, then we would feel that we have achieved something much bigger than winning matches. That is the legacy we would like to build, he concluded.
Bokaro: Two Injured in Four-Vehicle Collision Near Kamalpur School
State sets 50L quintal paddy procurement target
QR code-based smart beat patrolling system launched in Koderma
HC rejects Hemants plea to stay PMLA proceedings
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HC appoints former judge to monitor CID probe into JPSC, JSSC exam irregularities
HC stays anti-encroachment drive in HEC
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Appoint CIC, make state info commission fully operational: Babulal to CM
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Chip designed by IIT-ISM team earns national recognition
Fuel station owners may switch to cash payments over MDR on UPI
RMC to install 5,300 LED street lights across city
Main operator of Godda illegal mini gun factory arrested in Bokaro
Railway Board approves maintenance depot for Vande Bharat trains at Tatanagar railway station
BCCI To Take Call On Chief Selector Agarkar's Future Within 15 Days, Says Devajit Saikia
Secretary Devajit Saikia: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a decision on senior men's chief selector Ajit Agarkar's future within the next 15 days, said Secretary Devajit Saikia after the 95th Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place here on Friday. Agarkar, who assumed the chief selector's role in July 2023, has been a part of a successful period for the national side. Under his term as chief selector, India reached the 2023 ODI World Cup final, won the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 Champions Trophy, and retained the T20 World Cup title at home earlier this year. His term ends on October 4, and the BCCI will have to make a decision as India enters the final leg of preparations for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup. Today, there has been no discussion about any individual. We still have 15 days to go. We will take a decision and in appropriate time, we will let you know, Saikia told reporters. In a major administrative decision, the BCCI has approved a substantial fee revision for domestic umpires and match referees, marking the first compensation enhancement since the 2017/18 season. Since 2017-18, there was no revision of the fees of the umpires. So we have done a restructuring of their categories. Earlier there were four categories, A+, A, B and C. Now we have restructured it as A, B, C and D. All their fees per day has been enhanced substantially, said Saikia. The BCCI has also introduced a merit-based promotion and demotion mechanism to foster accountability among match officials. Those who will be doing good, 10 umpires will be upgraded to the next level. Those umpires who are at the upper level, if they are not performing up to that level or they are a satisfactory level, they will be downgraded. 10 umpires will go up, 10 umpires will go down, he added. Saikia also quashed rumours over a possible change of venue for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Ranchi, scheduled to be held from February 19 to 23, 2027. There are six months left. We will take a call after a few days. We havent received any such requests as of now about the change of venue for the Ranchi Test. He also informed the new junior mens selection committee would soon be formed after the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) interviews candidates for the positions. We have received a large number of applicants for the junior selection committee, which we will give to our cricket committee, which will be competent to select the selectors. We will be trying to complete the process in the next 10-15 days. On the subject of aligning with the proposed Central Sports Act, Saikia clarified that the BCCI will await official notification from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports before making any structural amendments. Regarding the Sports Act, our stand is very clear. There are a lot of things which are yet to be done from the concerned authority. Once those exercises are completed, and once BCCI comes under the Sports Act, a particular notification has to be issued to make it a designated sport. On the subject of aligning with the proposed Central Sports Act, Saikia clarified that the BCCI will await official notification from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports before making any structural amendments. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Addressing the ongoing proceedings before the Supreme Court regarding the matter, Saikia said, So, as of today, there is nothing like that, which was mentioned in the Supreme Court that day. We will give the clarification on 27th of October, when the matter will be listed next time. Article Source: IANS
DUSU Elections 2026: Can ABVP retain key posts? All eyes on result day - September 19
The Delhi University students have exercised their franchise to choose the candidates from ABVP, NSUI, SFI-AISA alliance in a day-long DUSU elections which started at 8:30 am today. The key contenders for the President post this year are - Yash Dabas from ABVP, NSUI's Vijay Shankar Meena and AISA's Ananya Raturi. For the Vice President post, a tough fight can be expected between ABVP's Ishu Maurya and NSUI's Veer Chatrath, AISA's Akshat Shikhar.
Punjab Kings Wrap Up Four-day Off-season Conditioning Camp In Bengaluru
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings on Friday said they have concluded a four-day off-season physical preparation camp aimed at sharpening player fitness and recovery ahead of the upcoming domestic season and their next Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign. The camp, conducted in collaboration with Stance Health from September 14 to 17, brought together several key franchise players including Shashank Singh, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, and Vishal Nishad. The sessions prioritised athletic readiness, integrating customized strength and conditioning routines, mobility drills, structured nutrition plans, and advanced recovery protocols. The short camp came after a skill-focused camp held in New Chandigarh last month, with the franchise planning further specialized training modules across the country as part of a year-round preparation cycle. This is the first fitness camp that has taken place this year. Everyone feels that the IPL is a three-month tournament, but it is not. It is a proper 12-month commitment for players competing at this level. If you want to compete with the best in one of the worlds top leagues, you have to work that hard. This camp is focused entirely on fitness, diet, and training, and we are making sure to tick all the boxes well ahead of the season, Shashank said in a statement by the franchise. Highlighting the structured daily routine, lower-order batting all-rounder Shashank added, In the morning we start with mobility and gym work, followed by a team lunch. In the evening we move into conditioning, and we finish the day with pool or recovery sessions. That routine gives us quality time together, and that is how we grow both as individuals and as a unit. Building strong bonds off the field is just as vital as our performance on it. Left-handed opener Arya noted that tailored physical management and rapid recovery still remain crucial factors for sustained performance. As the season approaches, our focus is to get as much quality training as possible and achieve peak physical condition. The facilities here, especially the dedicated physio support and strength and conditioning programmes, are tailored specifically for our individual needs. In modern cricket, fast and efficient recovery is what makes the real difference over a long season. He also praised the franchises active involvement in terms of player development during the off-season. The IPL might be played across three months, but Punjab Kings actively tracks our progress and supports us for the full nine months of the off-season. Whether we need to train in Mumbai, Bengaluru, or attend camps in Chandigarh, the franchise arranges everything within a day. Having that level of backing throughout the year gives a player immense confidence, he added. He also praised the franchises active involvement in terms of player development during the off-season. The IPL might be played across three months, but Punjab Kings actively tracks our progress and supports us for the full nine months of the off-season. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The management, players, and owners treat us like family rather than just a professional setup, and that environment inspires you to give 110 percent on the field, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Delhi Police Arrest Man In Ranchi For Cheating
Delhi Police arrested Sanju Mishra alias Tuntun Mishra from Ranchi, Jharkhand, in connection with a financial cheating case. Mishra, who runs a power tools business, is accused of fraud involving his business partner, Anup Garg. An FIR was registered in Delhi, and his bail plea was rejected by the Delhi High Court. Police are investigating his bank accounts and the fraud's modus operandi.
12 students injured as school van overturns in Jamshedpur
Star Cast: Radhika Apte, Konkona Sen Sharma, Vijay Varma, Gurfateh Pirzada, Ali Fazal, Radhikka Madan, Aditi Rao Hydari Director: Vikramaditya Motwane, Kiran Rao, Shakun Batra, Vishal Bhardwaj Lust Stories 3 Movie Review Synopsis: LUST STORIES 3 is the story of couples caught in unique situations. Padma (Radhika Apte) is married to Hemant (Vijay Varma), while her best friend, Shonali (Konkona Sen Sharma), is the wife of Debendu (Abhishek Banerjee). Padma and Shonali are unhappy with their respective sex lives and decide to swap partners. Karan (Gurfateh Pirzada) is a pizza delivery boy who bumps into Lisa (Sana Thampi), a nail artist. Sparks fly between the two. However, Lisa is unaware that Karan has a hidden side that can have disastrous consequences for both of them. Varun (Ali Fazal) marries his sweetheart, Sailee (Radhikka Madan), and a few years later, they decide to separate. But they soon find themselves in a cant-live-with-cant-live-without situation. Lastly, in 1987 Hyderabad, Saira (Aditi Rao Hydari), unsatisfied by her husband Badru (Siddharth) in bed, finds a unique and naughty way to articulate her unfulfilled desires. However, things dont go as planned. Lust Stories 3 Movie Story Review: The stories, as expected, are in the zone of love and lust. The Gurfateh-Sana track, written by Tanaji Dasgupta and Kiran Rao, also has a bit of crime thrown in. The screenplay is largely breezy. Avinash Sampath's screenplay for the Radhika-Konkona track is novel and keeps the interest going. However, the last two stories are stretched. Sumukhi Suresh's dialogues for the Radhika-Konkona track are hilarious and add tremendously to the fun quotient. The dialogues in the Aditi-Siddharth story also work well. Vikramaditya Motwane's direction is convincing. The idea is crazy, but Vikramaditya handles it like a pro. Moreover, it is rare for an Indian title to show the impact of Korean shows even among the aam junta, who are often binge-watching their Hindi-dubbed versions. The finale is unexpected. Kiran Rao's direction stands out compared to her execution style in DHOBI GHAT [2011] and LAAPATAA LADIES [2024]. Shakun Batra's direction is fine but, compared to the work of the other directors, seems below par. Nevertheless, he captures some moments exceptionally well. Vishal Bhardwaj's direction is over-the-top per the requirement. There has already been a film and a popular web series based on a similar idea, but Vishal takes it on a different tangent, which makes for an entertaining watch. On the flipside, the length is an issue this time. While LUST STORIES [2018] was around 2 hours long, LUST STORIES 2 [2023] had a runtime of 2 hours and 12 minutes. LUST STORIES 3, meanwhile, runs for 2 hours and 44 minutes. One may not feel the length during the first two stories, but the third story, directed by Shakun Batra, particularly gets lengthy. Moreover, a crucial dinner scene seems unconvincing; the realization that the couple arrives at doesnt come across organically. The Kiran Rao track has an interesting suspense element that many might not see coming. However, the climax seems rather abrupt, considering that dangerous drug lords are involved. The Vishal Bhardwaj track has fun and naughty undertones, though it doesnt seem convincing in a few places. Lastly, the biggest drawback is that the earlier instalments had set a benchmark. The Kiara Advani vibrator scene in LUST STORIES and the intimate sequence featuring Vijay Varma and Tamannaah Bhatia in LUST STORIES 2 are memorable even today. No such lust-laden or memorable scene exists in LUST STORIES 3, and this may go against the expectations of viewers. Love Or Lust With Lust Stories 3 Cast On Bollywood Hungama | Radhika Apte, Vijay Varma, Radhika Madan Lust Stories 3 Movie Review Performances: Both Radhika Apte and Konkona Sen Sharma deliver highly entertaining performances. They take the story to dizzying heights with performances that are nuanced and yet very mass-appealing. Abhishek Banerjee and Vijay Varma, too, put their best foot forward. Gurfateh Pirzada looks dashing and proves yet again that hes an actor to watch out for. Sana Thampi is an excellent find and delivers an arresting performance. Ali Fazal and Radhikka Madan are equally impactful. Aditi Rao Hydari gets her act right and ably delivers as per the requirement. Siddharth is adorable and delivers a sincere performance. Anirudh Surya (David Lobo) in the Radhika-Konkona track leaves a mark. Jiyoung Son (Jin; voiced by Suvela Sharma) and Tenzein Choden (Min; voiced by Sonal Kaushal) are very memorable despite having brief cameos. Rajat Kapoor (Therapist) flawlessly slips into the role. Vijay Maurya (Ravi Uncle) is dependable as always. Gajraj Rao (Abbujaan) is very cute, and only an actor of his calibre could have pulled off the part so effectively. Nivedita Bhargava (Guide Madam), Bhagyashree (Rajjo), Vaishali Bisht (Rajjos mother) and Alok Jain (Rajjos father) are fair. Lust Stories 3 movie music and other technical aspects: The songs are well woven into the narrative. Aaye Miyan Khat Phat is the only song that stands out. The cinematography is satisfactory. The production design across the four stories is visually appealing and yet remains true to their respective worlds. The costumes are straight out of life and realistic. The editing could have been sharper, especially in the last two stories. Lust Stories 3 Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, LUST STORIES 3 makes for a reasonably entertaining watch, thanks to its interesting concepts, fine performances and some genuinely engaging moments. However, the excessive runtime, uneven storytelling and, most importantly, the lack of a bold and memorable lust-driven sequence like the earlier instalments prevent it from making the same impact. Nevertheless, given the popularity of the LUST STORIES franchise, it is bound to attract huge viewership.
Setback for Hemant Soren as Jharkhand HC upholds rejection of discharge petition in PMLA case
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren suffered a setback from the Jharkhand High Court on Friday in the money laundering case linked to 8.86 acres of land in Ranchi's Bargain circle. The court upheld the lower court's order rejecting his discharge petition and dismissed his intervention plea, clearing the way for further judicial proceedings against him. With the High Court declining to grant relief, the Special PMLA Court in Ranchi can now proceed with the framing of charges against the Chief Minister. The matter is already scheduled for hearing on September 19, and Hemant Soren is expected to appear before the court. The Chief Minister had challenged the order of the Special PMLA Court rejecting his discharge petition and had also sought a stay on the ongoing proceedings before the trial court. After hearing arguments from both sides on September 16, the High Court had reserved its order. The verdict delivered on Friday dismissed his plea. The case pertains to the alleged illegal acquisition and transfer of 8.86 acres of land in Ranchi's Bargain area. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating allegations of money laundering linked to the land transaction. According to the agency, forged documents and other irregular procedures were allegedly used in connection with the transfer of the land. In his discharge application before the lower court, Hemant Soren had denied the allegations, contending that there was no sufficient direct evidence against him. The defence had also questioned some of the statements and circumstantial evidence relied upon by the ED. The ED, however, argued that documents collected during the investigation, witness testimonies and circumstantial evidence established a prima facie case. The agency maintained that a detailed examination of the evidence was not required at the stage of framing charges and should instead be undertaken during the trial. On June 8, the Special PMLA Court rejected Hemant Soren's discharge petition, holding that the material available on record was sufficient to make out a prima facie case. The court also clarified that it was not determining guilt at that stage. The Special PMLA Court has already framed charges against several other accused in the case, including Antu Tirkey and architect Vinod Kumar Singh. Following the High Court's refusal to intervene on Friday, the process of framing charges against Hemant Soren is also expected to move forward. The ED has filed a prosecution complaint against around 18 accused persons, including the Chief Minister.
He Left Corporate Job At Oracle To Start 10*10 Falooda Shop. Now, It Makes Rs 9 Crore
The Falooda Shop operates on a franchise model. The brand is set to open its first store in North India soon.
10k expired soft drink bottles destroyed in Ramgarh
Constitutional cost of disenfranchisement: Appraising SIR
In constitutional democracies, universal adult suffrage is neither a statutory concession nor an administrative privilege; it is the foundational bedrock of popular sovereignty. When electoral roll sanitisation transitions from an inclusive audit into a mechanism of arbitrary exclusion, the democratic contract collapses. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) undertaken by the Election Commission of India (ECI) 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 .
Lust Stories 3 Review: Bold, beautiful and uneven, four stories explore the many shades of desire
There is something about Netflix's Lust Stories franchise that has always worked. It is bold, feisty and unapologetic. More importantly, it does not shy away from saying what it wants to say. The first two seasons gave us stories that explored desire, relationships and female sexuality without making them feel like forbidden conversations.
Marathi film Gondhal announced as India's official selection for 99th Academy Awards
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) The Marathi language film Gondhal has been selected by the Film Federation of India as India's official entry for the upcoming 99th edition of the Academy Awards. The Film Federation of India made the announcement in Mumbai on Friday. There were 33 films in contention this year, and the jury picked Santosh Davakhars film to represent India in the Best International Film Category for the 99th Academy Awards. The film stars Kishor Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir and Anuj Prabhu. It is set against the backdrop of the traditional Maharashtrian Gondhal ritual, a night-long folk performance involving music, dance and mythology. The other titles included the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Main Vaapas Aaunga, Border 2 and the Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar franchise, Dug Dug, Haq, Bhamardo, 120 Bahadur, Sing Geetham, Tera Mera Nata, Ladoo, Ohh My Dog, Balan The Boy, Peddi, Irumudi, Khoonta, Gandhi Talks, Bison Kalaamadan, Shape of Momo, Governor, 2020 Delhi, Commando Vin Love Story, Pravas, Man Aatale Manaatle, Obsess, Egwa, Angh, Hanuman Ansh and Ikkis. It is the 4th Marathi film to represent India at the Academy Awards after Shwaas, Harishchandrachi Factory and Court. Prior to this, India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards was Neeraj Ghaywan's drama Homebound. The film starrer Vishal Jethwa and Ishaan Khatter. It subsequently made the 15-film Oscars shortlist for International Feature Film. The 99th Academy Awards, honouring films released during 2026, are scheduled for March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. Conan OBrien is set to return as host for the 3rd consecutive year. The eligibility period runs from January 1 through December 31, 2026, while nominations are scheduled to be announced on January 21, 2027. The ceremony will precede the Oscars centenary celebration in 2028, when the 100th Academy Awards will be held.
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) The Jharkhand High Court on Friday extended its stay on the state government's decision to cancel appointments made through the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) examination and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) Combined Graduate Level (CGL) recruitment process. The court also appointed a retired High Court judge to oversee the investigation into the alleged irregularities in the recruitment exercises. A bench of Justice Deepak Roshan heard a batch of petitions challenging the government's decision to annul appointments made through various recruitment examinations, including the JPSC CDPO and JSSC-CGL exams. During the hearing, the court orally observed that while the material available so far suggests that not all appointments were made in a fair manner, it is equally true that not every appointment was tainted. The court expressed concern over the lengthy recruitment process followed by the JPSC, noting that it often takes two to three years to conduct examinations and complete appointments. In such circumstances, the bench observed, a blanket cancellation of appointments could adversely affect many officials against whom no individual wrongdoing has been established. To ensure impartial scrutiny of the allegations, the court appointed retired High Court judge Gautam Kumar Choudhary to monitor the investigation, while retired IPS officer R.K. Malik was designated as the nodal officer for the probe. During the proceedings, both the Jharkhand government and the JPSC submitted their responses before the court. In its affidavit, the state government defended its decision to cancel the JSSC-CGL examination, arguing that the entire recruitment process had been vitiated by alleged irregularities. According to the government, distinguishing between genuinely successful candidates and those who may have unfairly benefited had become difficult. The government cited Supreme Court guidelines that permit cancellation of an entire examination when the recruitment process is found to be irreparably compromised, and it becomes impossible to separate valid selections from tainted ones. On this basis, it justified its decision to scrap the CGL examination. The affidavit further stated that confidential examination-related work, including question paper printing and distribution to examination centres, had been entrusted to ICN Technology. According to the government, 28 individuals, including the company's CEO Somansh Prakash, have been arrested in connection with the alleged exam scam, while notices have been issued to 265 people. The government also claimed that the investigation had uncovered evidence suggesting that candidates were allegedly coached with answers at locations in Nepal, Asansol, Kolkata, Bihar, Jharia and Bokaro. Of the 28 candidates taken to Nepal, 10 were successful in the CGL examination, the affidavit stated. The investigation is still underway. Senior advocates Rajeev Ranjan, Indrajeet Sinha, Amritansh Vats, Kumar Harsh, Sonal Tiwari and Subhash Rasik Soren, among others, appeared for the petitioners. The state government was represented by senior advocate Meenakshi Arora and Advocate General Rohitashwa Roy, while the JPSC was represented by advocates Sanjay Piperwal and Prince Kumar.
Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's mother Roopi Soren hospitalised in Ranchi
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) Roopi Soren, the mother of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, was admitted to a private hospital in Ranchi on Friday after her health suddenly deteriorated. She is currently undergoing treatment under the supervision of a team of doctors at a private hospital in Ranchi. According to hospital sources, Roopi Soren complained of breathing difficulties and was admitted to the hospital. Medical examinations confirmed a chest infection, and doctors said her condition is currently stable and under control. Sources said she has been facing health-related issues for some time and has been undergoing treatment. She had returned to Ranchi only two days ago after receiving medical treatment and undergoing health check-ups in Bengaluru. Chief Minister Hemant Soren had accompanied her during the visit to Bengaluru. After returning to Ranchi, her condition worsened on Friday. Family members rushed her to the hospital. She had reportedly been experiencing breathing difficulties since Thursday evening, which intensified on Friday. Doctors immediately began treatment upon her admission and have kept her under close observation. No detailed statement has been issued by the family regarding her health condition so far. Hospital authorities said her treatment is continuing and that her health is being closely monitored. Further details are expected through subsequent medical updates. Roopi Soren is the wife of former Jharkhand Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha founder Shibu Soren, who died on August 4 last year. She had received the Padma Bhushan award posthumously on behalf of her husband in recognition of his public service and contribution to public affairs. Following reports of Roopi Sorens hospitalisation, family members, well-wishers and supporters have wished her a speedy recovery. Hospital management has reiterated that her condition remains stable and she is under continuous medical care.
Hazaribag theft accused held, gold recovered
Jharkhand to set up expert panels for safety review of 59 key dams
Bihar man held for womans murder in Hbag
From blood banks to bonfires, Hazaribag group keeps the spirit of service alive
Body found from a well in Chatra
Two youths held for rape, murder of minor girl in Chatra
BCCI office bearers authorised to take decision related to chief selector Agarkars future
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) office bearers have been authorised to take a call on all things related to the mens selection committees and offered no clarity on the future of chief selector Ajit Agarkar during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Friday. The development comes amid rising uncertainty over Agarkars position as the chairman of the senior mens selection committee. Agarkars contract runs till October 2026 and its yet to be known if it will be extended till next years ODI World Cup, to be played in Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia. Apart from this, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal and Khairul Jamal Majumdar have been re-elected unopposed to the IPL Governing Council. Today's meeting went well, everything went well. The same people are repeated in the IPL Governing Council - Arun Dhumal and Mamon. Regarding the selectors (in both senior and junior mens committees), an authorisation has been taken and we will decide about the selectors later, Shukla said to reporters after the AGM ended at the BCCI headquarters. If Agarkar doesnt continue, the BCCI will have to follow the standard procedure, which involves inviting applications through a public advertisement and conducting candidate interviews. It is understood that former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel, currently the assistant coach at Gujarat Titans in the IPL and ventured into commentary duties, has emerged as a potential contender to take Agarkars spot in the panel if the BCCI office bearers decide to bring in a change in the panel. The murmurs of Patel coming into an influential role in the selection committee have been in on and off mode since March, but with him already past 5 years of retiring actively from the game, he can be a potential contender to replace Agarkar. Agarkar, who missed a high-profile review meeting on September 3 due to him being at a place where internet wasnt available, had attended the recent Afghanistan-India T20I games at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, alongside his selection committee colleagues RP Singh and Ajay Ratra. In the second game held on Tuesday, Shukla along with ICC Chairman Jay Shah and BCCI President Mithun Manhas were present in the stadium alongside Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) officials. Asked about potential venue change for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at Ranchi, Shukla clarified that no such deliberations took place during the meeting. No, there was no discussion about the venue for that Test match. There were some fixtures. Out of them, the fixtures which were of 50 overs, it is now done of 20 overs, added Shukla. One of the agendas at the AGM was the inclusion of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the BCCI fold, but it is understood that their bid for affiliate membership is deferred because of legal issues. Domestic umpires, match referees, and scorers are in line for a significant pay raise, with the BCCI likely to form a three-member committee to finalise the fee structure.
Jharkhand High Court Halts Demolition Drive on Ranchi Bypass Road Until December 31
The Jharkhand High Court has temporarily halted a demolition drive on Ranchis HEC Bypass Road, giving residents until December 31 to remove encroachments. Jharkhand High Court Halts Demolition Drive on Ranchi Bypass Road Until December 31
Jharkhand HC stays anti-encroachment drive on Ranchi bypass road till Dec 31
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) The Jharkhand High Court on Friday ordered an immediate halt to the anti-encroachment drive being carried out by the district administration along the HEC Bypass Road near Birsa Chowk in Ranchi. The court directed the Ranchi Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police to suspend the ongoing action for the time being. It also granted alleged encroachers time until December 31 to vacate the government land on their own. Hearing the matter, the bench of Justice Ananda Sen observed that, in view of the upcoming festive season, immediate administrative action should be deferred. The court said the affected individuals would be given adequate time to remove the encroachments and vacate the government land voluntarily within the stipulated period. Following the High Court's order, the anti-encroachment campaign being conducted by the district administration on the HEC Bypass Road has been suspended. Prior to the stay, administrative teams, accompanied by police personnel and magistrates, had been carrying out demolition and eviction operations in the area. Several houses and commercial establishments had come within the ambit of the drive, triggering protests from local residents. Representing the petitioners, advocates Indrajit Sinha and Akhauri Avinash Kumar urged the court to immediately restrain the administration's action and grant residents additional time to remove the structures. Accepting the plea, the court directed the administration not to proceed with the eviction drive and fixed December 31 as the deadline for the occupants to clear the government land themselves. The order has provided temporary relief to residents and business owners whose properties faced the threat of demolition under the ongoing campaign. The case pertains to alleged encroachments on government land along the HEC Bypass Road, where the district administration had recently launched a clearance operation. The district administration launched the anti-encroachment drive to clear illegal constructions on land belonging to the Heavy Engineering Corporation (HEC) and the Railways on Tuesday. The action triggered massive protests by hundreds of affected residents. Protesters took to the streets alleging that the administration had initiated the eviction process without making adequate rehabilitation arrangements.
Upendras first look from Teja Sajja's 'Zombie Reddy2 NXT LVL' released!
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 18 (IANS) The makers of director Suparn S Varma's eagerly awaited film, 'Zombie Reddy2 NXT LVL', featuring actor Teja Sajja in the lead, on Friday released the first look poster of Kannada star Upendra in the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs. The first look poster of the actor was to mark his birthday on Friday. Sources close to the unit say that Real Star Upendra will be seen in a prominent role in the film, which will also mark the debut of actress Shanaya Kapoor in Telugu. The poster released on Friday presents Upendra in a never-seen-before wild, fierce and larger-than-life avatar, showcasing an intriguing appearance that instantly commands attention. He is seen hanging upside down from a massive tree branch, holding a long weapon in one hand. His rugged appearance, flowing hair and intense expression give the character a mysterious identity. The dark costume and tribal-inspired patterns further strengthen the raw and unconventional look. The background features a dense forest, blazing torches and mysterious silhouettes. The combination of the eerie setting and Upendras unconventional pose creates a distinctive fantasy-action atmosphere. Adding to the impact is the tagline, Ready to turn the world upside down. 'Zombie Reddy 2 NXT LVL Dead Or Alive' is scheduled to hit screens across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Nepali and Japanese languages. For the unaware, 'Zombie Reddy' creator Prasanth Varma has returned as the creator of the sequel, while Suparn S Varma has donned the directors hat for the sequel. Known for his work across acclaimed projects such as 'Haq', 'Rana Naidu' and 'The Family Man 2', besides his writing contributions to several notable films and web series, Suparn brings a distinct intensity to the franchise. The film is being produced by TG Vishwa Prasad and Krithi Prasad under the People Media Factory banner.
Lust Stories 3 movie review: Life beyond the bedroom door
A mirror to modern relationships, the franchises third instalment sheds its past shock value for the disturbing terrain of emotional isolation
Matthew Lillard regrets not speaking up after Melissa Barrera's Scream firing
Matthew Lillard has opened up about returning as Stu Macher in Scream 7 after Melissa Barreras exit from the franchise. The actor admitted he feels embarrassed and shame about his decision, saying he should have spoken up at the time and questioning why he agreed to return
Ranveer Singh seeks blessings at Lalbaugcha Raja ahead of Pralay production debut
Ranveer Singh was spotted at Mumbais iconic Lalbaugcha Raja, dressed in a traditional white kurta-pyjama, as he offered prayers and sought blessings for his upcoming project. The visit comes after what has been a remarkable year for Ranveer, with the Dhurandhar franchise enjoying a blockbuster run and further cementing his position as Indian cinemas leading superstar. From the massive response to his performance as Hamza to the franchises theatrical success at the box office, the year has marked another significant milestone in his career. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Hungama (@realbollywoodhungama) Now, Ranveer is looking ahead to an exciting new phase with Pralay. The actor has begun shooting for the film, in which he will not only headline the project but also take on the role of producer. With Pralay, Ranveer is set to make his production debut under his banner Maa Kasam Films, adding another dimension to his evolving career in the entertainment industry. The Lalbaugcha Raja visit also comes at a particularly special time in Ranveers personal life. The actor and Deepika Padukone are also awaiting the arrival of their second child, making this phase one filled with both professional and personal milestones. From delivering a major franchise success with Dhurandhar to beginning work on Pralay and taking his first step as a producer, Ranveer Singh is entering a new chapter in his career. As he takes on these new responsibilities, his visit to Lalbaugcha Raja marks a heartfelt moment of seeking blessings before the journey ahead. Also Read:Ranveer Singh appreciates Karan D Kapadia of Hunkkaar the reason runs deeper than youd expect!
Directed by Gurmmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna, Mirzapur The Movie brings the cult franchise to the big screen
ED searches seven locations in Jharkhand, Odisha in Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank scam case
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Ranchi Zonal Office conducted search and seizure operations at seven locations in Jharkhand and Odisha in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank scam, the agency said on Friday. The searches, carried out under Section 17 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), were part of its ongoing probe into what it described as a large-scale fraud allegedly perpetrated against the bank's Seraikela branch. According to the ED, businessman Sanjay Kumar Dalmia allegedly carried out the fraud in connivance with then officials of the JSCB. The agencys search operation covers premises linked to the ongoing investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and suspected proceeds of crime arising from the case. ED, Ranchi, is conducting search and seizure action u/s 17 of PMLA in the case of the Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank Scam at a total of 7 locations in Jharkhand and Odisha, the agency statement said. The agencys latest action comes amid several ongoing investigations being handled by its Ranchi Zonal Office into alleged financial crimes and money laundering in Jharkhand. The ED is empowered under the PMLA to conduct searches and seize material relevant to its investigation. Further details regarding the material recovered during the searches were not immediately available. The ED had also conducted searches in several states in connection with its probe into the petrol bomb attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Ranchi in June this year. The agency had carried out simultaneous searches at four locations in Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Karnataka as part of its investigation into suspected money laundering and financial transactions allegedly linked to the case. The probe was connected to a case registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), according to officials. During those searches, ED teams examined documents, digital devices and other material relating to allegedly suspicious financial transactions. The agency was also examining whether illegal funding or money-laundering channels were used in the planning or execution of the attack. The petrol bomb attack took place on the night of June 16, when petrol bombs were hurled at the RSS provincial headquarters in Ranchis Nivaranpur area. The NIA registered a case in connection with the incident under RC-01/2026/NIA/RNC.
Westview Cricket Ltd and Poonawalla Sports and Fitness Pvt Ltd will be buying Rajasthan Royals (India), Paarl Royals (South Africa) and Barbados Royals (Barbados).
Delhi Capitals take cricket to Japan, partner with The British School in Tokyo
Digital Desk | Tokyo, Sep 17 (IANS) With cricket set for a return to the Asian Games and the sport preparing for its Olympic comeback at Los Angeles 2028, Delhi Capitals have taken their grassroots outreach to Japan by partnering with The British School in Tokyo (BST). The IPL franchise has partnered with the school to introduce more young students in Japan to cricket, with support from the Japan Cricket Association (JCA). The partnership comes just days before a historic week for India-Japan cricket. The Indian womens team will face hosts Japan in the Asian Games quarter-finals on Friday, September 18, while the Indian mens team will meet Japan in the Suzuki Cup T20 International on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture. As the first initiative under the partnership, former India captain and Delhi Capitals Womens Assistant Coach Anju Jain visited BST in September to conduct cricket workshops for primary and secondary students. Jain, a former India international wicketkeeper-batter who captained the country at the 2000 Womens World Cup and received the Arjuna Award, introduced students to the fundamentals of the sport while drawing on her experience as an international player and coach. The partnership is expected to expand beyond introductory workshops, with plans for further coaching sessions and player interactions, technical guidance for school coaches and support for student-led cricket programmes at BST. Ian Clayton, Principal of The British School in Tokyo, said the initiative could help connect students with the wider possibilities offered by the sport. Cricket has a wonderful ability to bring people together across cultures and generations. We are proud of our connection to the game and excited by the opportunity to work with Anju and Delhi Capitals to help inspire its future in Japan. Most importantly, we want our students to see where passion, dedication and ambition can take them. Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta said the franchise sees scope to contribute to the development of cricket at the grassroots level in Japan. Japan is an exciting market for cricket, and we see a great opportunity to contribute to its growth at the grassroots level. Through our partnership with The British School in Tokyo, we want to bring our experience and expertise closer to young players and give them the opportunity to learn from people who have played and coached the game at the highest level. We believe this can help spark greater interest in cricket and encourage more young people in Japan to take up the sport, he said. Delhi Capitals already have a connection with Japanese cricket through pacer Ahilya Chandel, who joined the franchise as a net bowler during WPL 2025. Chandel is among the few bowlers to have claimed a double hat-trick in WT20Is. The latest initiative comes as cricket builds momentum in Japan. Its presence at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games marks another step in that growth, while the sport is also set to return to the Olympic programme at Los Angeles 2028. For Delhi Capitals, the partnership with BST provides another avenue to take the game beyond its traditional markets and introduce cricket to a new generation of potential players in Japan.
CCI nod for Lakshmi Mittal-Poonawalla Rajasthan Royals stake buys
The competition regulator in India has sanctioned the acquisition of three cricket franchises, with Westview Cricket and Poonawalla Sports set to buy the Rajasthan Royals along with two overseas teams. Moreover, the approval extends to deals made by Great White Global and ITVIS Innovations. OMERS Infrastructure Asia also received the nod for purchasing a larger share in Azure Power Global.
UPL 2026: Players' Draft Completes Squads, Rishikesh River Kings Secure Akash Madhwal
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) franchises completed their player drafts to complete their squads ahead of the upcoming season. All the seven men's teams finalised their squads ahead of the tournament, scheduled to be played from September 21 to October 1 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Raipur, Dehradun as Chennai Super Kings' IPL 2026 replacement fast bowler Akash Madhwal was roped in by Rishikesh River Kings. Other prominent Uttarakhand players - Suchith J, Avneesh Sudha, Yuvraj Choudhary, Tejasvi Jaiswal, Kunal Chandela and Mayank Mishra also headline the respective squads as icon players. USN Indians have retained Suchith J, while Nainital Tigers will be led by Avneesh. Choudhary has joined Haridwar Elmas, and Jaiswal has gone to Tehri Titans. Dehradun Warriors will be represented by Chandela, while Mayank Mishra will be the icon player for Pithoragarh Hurricanes. Each franchise assembled a mix of senior players, Under-23 and Under-19 cricketers, uncapped players and established icon players. Meanwhile, Kiran Verma, Secretary, Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU), reflected on the draft. The Players' Draft has brought together a strong pool of talent from across Uttarakhand and gives our players an important platform to compete at a high level. The UPL has grown with every edition, and with both senior and emerging players coming together, we are looking forward to an exciting third season, Kiran said. Former BCCI Vice-President and Former Secretary of CAU Mahim Verma also highlighted the platform the league provides for local cricketers. The completion of the draft marks another important step towards UPL 2026. The league provides players from Uttarakhand an opportunity to perform in a competitive environment and gain visibility. With the IPL auction cycle approaching, this tournament can be an important platform for players to showcase their abilities through their performances, Mahim said. Chairperson of the Uttarakhand Premier League Sunil Joshi also highlighted that the draft has given another layer to the league. The Players Draft has added another layer of excitement to UPL 2026. Each team has put together its squad with a combination of experienced players and young talent, which reflects the depth available in Uttarakhand cricket. We are now looking forward to seeing these players come together on the field and make the most of the opportunity, Joshi said. Chairperson of the Uttarakhand Premier League Sunil Joshi also highlighted that the draft has given another layer to the league. The Players Draft has added another layer of excitement to UPL 2026. Each team has put together its squad with a combination of experienced players and young talent, which reflects the depth available in Uttarakhand cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The women's Players' Draft also saw all four teams complete their squads for the third edition of the Uttarakhand Premier League. Raghvi will lead Pithoragarh Hurricanes as their icon player, while Sweta will captain Dehradun Warriors. Mussoorie Queens have secured Nandini Kashyap as their icon player, while Bageshwar Aerial have added Prema Rawat as their icon player. Article Source: IANS
Bengaluru Stallions Unveil Squad For IGPL 2026 Season
Veer Ganapathy, son of renowned golfer Rahul Ganapathy, is set to represent Bengaluru Stallions in the AM Green IGPL 2026. The team, also featuring Trishul Chinnappa, Sunhit Bishnoi, and Sudhir Sharma, was unveiled for the second season of India's first franchise-based professional golf league. The IGPL aims to promote golf beyond elite circles and provide exposure to young talent.
Prithvi Shaw, Fiancee Akriti Agarwal Part Ways 6 Months After Engagement
Prithvi Shaw: Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw and his fiancee Akriti Agarwal have decided to part ways, around six months after announcing their engagement, with Agarwal confirming the separation in a statement on social media on Thursday. Agarwal, a social media personality and actress, said the decision was mutual and came after the couple realised their future goals and circumstances differed. She also asked people to respect their privacy and refrain from speculation about the reasons for their decision. With a heavy heart, I would like to share that my fianc and I have decided to part ways due to different goals and circumstances for our future. As much as we love and care for each other, weve come to accept that our paths are not meant to be together. With our responsibilities and the circumstances we are currently facing, we have mutually decided to go our separate ways, Agarwal wrote on Instagram. I genuinely wish nothing but the best, peace, and happiness for both of us as we move forward. I kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this difficult time and refrain from speculating or making assumptions about the reasons behind our decision. Thank you for understanding and respecting our space, she added. Shaw and Agarwal announced their engagement on March 8, with the India batter sharing a series of romantic pictures from the occasion. In one photograph, Shaw could be seen going down on one knee to propose to Agarwal, while another showed the couple displaying their engagement rings. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. The engagement came at a pivotal point in Shaws career, as he sought to rebuild his standing in domestic and franchise cricket. The right-handed batter, who made his India debut in 2018 with a century on his first Test against the West Indies, was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 75 lakh in the accelerated round of the IPL 2026 auction. However, Shaw did not play a single match in the 2026 IPL season. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shaw has also removed his engagement photographs from his Instagram profile following the announcement. Article Source: IANS
ED raids multiple states in Ranchi RSS office attack money laundering probe
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 17 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday carried out raids in several states in connection with its probe into the petrol bomb attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Ranchi in June this year. The agency conducted simultaneous searches at four locations in Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Karnataka to investigate suspected money laundering and financial transactions linked to the case. According to officials, the action is connected to a case registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). ED teams searched premises associated with suspects at multiple locations. During the raids, investigators examined documents, digital devices, and evidence related to allegedly suspicious financial transactions. The agency is looking into whether illegal funding or money laundering channels were used in planning or executing the attack. The attack took place on the night of June 16, when petrol bombs were hurled at the RSS provincial headquarters located in Ranchi's Nivaranpur area. The NIA has registered the case under RC-01/2026/NIA/RNC. In the initial phase of the investigation, Ranchi police arrested three suspects. The NIA later took over the probe and began examining the alleged conspiracy behind the attack, the network of the accused, and possible interstate links. In July, the agency said it was expanding the investigation by examining other individuals connected to the case as well as digital devices seized during the probe. Investigators have also flagged the possibility of international links. Based on the questioning of the accused, various investigative reports have referred to alleged contacts with handlers based in Pakistan and other individuals. However, officials have stressed that these claims can only be conclusively established after the investigation is completed. The NIA had earlier conducted search operations in several states in connection with the case. Earlier this month, the agency carried out raids in Patna and reportedly recovered cash worth several lakh rupees. With the ED's latest action, the focus of the investigation has expanded to include the suspected financial network and funding sources that may have supported the attack.
BofA hires Goldman's Srijith Nair to lead Asia ex-China financial institutions banking
Bank of America has hired Srijith Nair from Goldman Sachs for key Asia roles. Nair will lead financial institutions group investment banking and insurance in the region. He brings nearly twenty years of extensive investment banking experience to his new position. This strategic hire aims to strengthen Bank of America's franchise across the Asia Pacific. Nair previously held significant roles at Barclays, Daiwa, and Citigroup.
Ranchi RSS Office Petrol Bomb Attack: ED Raids Across 4 States, Probes Money Trail
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches across Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand and Karnataka in connection with the June petrol bomb attack on the RSS office in Ranchi.The probe is linked to an NIA case, with investigators examining the alleged financial links to the network associated with Pakistan-based terrorist Shahzad Bhatti. The ED is now tracing the suspected money trail and examining whether funds were used to facilitate the attack.The searches come a day after the Union Home Ministry designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network as a terrorist organisation under UAPA.
ED Conducts Raids in Four States Linked to RSS Office Attack Investigation
The Enforcement Directorate has launched raids across four states in connection with the investigation of a petrol bomb attack on the RSS office in Ranchi. ED Conducts Raids in Four States Linked to RSS Office Attack Investigation
Starting an Education Franchise in Assam: Why the Preschool Segment Has Strong Potential
Preschool education is becoming an important part of how families prepare children for formal schooling, creating meaningful opportunities for education entrepreneurs in Assam. Parents increasingly value learning environments that combine care, social interaction, creativity and age-appropriate development. This changing outlook gives the preschool segment room to grow across different communities. For aspiring education entrepreneurs, a [] The post Starting an Education Franchise in Assam: Why the Preschool Segment Has Strong Potential appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Zee TV has announced the return of the OG music reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, at a media press conference in Mumbai, unveiling a new season that brings to life Hindustan Ka Sangeetsthan, a world dedicated to the celebration of music and giving media a first glimpse into Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 through a Virtual Reality experience showcasing its spectacular new set. The show premieres on September 19 2026, every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 PM on Zee TV and Hindi Zee5. Celebrating nearly three decades of a legacy built on music and talent, the new season takes the experience beyond a conventional singing reality show with a spectacular 360 stage, 100+ musicians and an expansive chorus ensemble, creating the scale and energy of a live concert on television, while bringing the richness of Indian musical traditions to the forefront. For nearly three decades, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has remained a trusted platform for discovering, nurturing and celebrating musical talent. What has made the property endure is its unwavering focus on real music and authentic voices, even as the format has evolved with changing audiences. This season celebrates the tradition of music from different parts of the country through mesmerising performances, creating a richer expression of Indian music while staying true to its soul. The season brings together a stellar quartet of Shankar Mahadevan, Kumar Sanu, Neeti Mohan and Javed Ali as its musical Gurus, bringing decades of experience across diverse musical journeys to the stage. Their role extends beyond evaluating performances, as they share their knowledge and perspective with the contestants through the course of the competition. Actor Shreyas Talpade will host the season, adding another familiar face to this celebration of music. Speaking about the new season, Ragahvendra Hunsur, Chief Content Officer, ZEEL, said, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is the oldest promise Zee has made to India. For nearly three decades, this franchise has stood for authentic music and real talent, and in that time it has done something no platform and no algorithm can replicate: it has let Indian music recognize its own. At Zee, we believe an iconic property must constantly evolve and reinvent itself while staying true to what makes it special. We don't rent relevance, we grow institutions. This season, we wanted to go beyond creating another singing reality show and build a complete world dedicated to music. A new generation of contestants, rooted and real, guided by exceptional musical Gurus who nurture and shape their journeys. A hundred-piece orchestra that lets every voice sound as large as its dream. With the richness and diversity of Indian music at its heart, the season brings together the scale, musicianship and grandeur this art form has always deserved, because we believe rawness and grandeur are not opposites. That is the vision behind 'Hindustan Ka Sangeetsthan', a season where the artist, the musician and the music itself take centre stage. This is not just where singers are discovered. It is where Indian music comes home. Speaking about the new season, Mangesh Kulkarni, Chief Channel Officer, Zee TV, said, Zee TV today stands as the undisputed leader in prime time, home to the top three shows in the Hindi GEC space. This success is a testament to the immense love of our viewers and the responsibility that comes with earning their trust. Sa Re Ga Ma Pa carries a legacy spanning more than three decades. As we bring this iconic franchise back, we have reimagined it on a scale truly befitting its stature, while preserving the essence that has made it India's most loved singing platform. We recognize the expectations that come with reviving a legacy as celebrated as Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. This season, our endeavour is not just to meet those expectations, but to surpass them. From a spectacular stage and an immersive live concert experience to over 100 musicians performing live and a judging panel comprising some of the industry's most respected musical stalwarts, every element has been crafted to elevate the experience like never before. Yet, at its heart, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa remains what it has always been: a platform where talent speaks for itself, where dreams find a voice, and where music takes centre stage. That is why Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is, and will always remain, Hindustan Ka Sangeetsthaan. Speaking about the new season, Kaveri Das, Business Head Hindi Zee 5 & Chief Channel Officer, &TV, said, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is the crown jewel of Zees non-fiction portfolio and one of the most loved music franchises in Indian entertainment. Its legacy has been built over decades on authenticity and an unwavering commitment to discovering exceptional talent. With every season, the franchise has challenged itself to raise the bar, and this year is no exception. From its grand scale and expert musical mentors to the incredible talent on stage, every element of the show has been crafted to deliver its most elevated experience yet. As audiences continue to seek premium, meaningful and culturally resonant entertainment, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa remains in a league of its own, and we are confident that this season will further reinforce its position as Indias most loved and definitive music reality franchise. At Hindi Zee 5, we are privileged to be the digital home of the iconic show, that has inspired generations of music lovers. As Sa Re Ga Ma Pa returns in its grandest avatar yet, we are excited to bring audiences a season that not only celebrates the legacy of Indian music but also redefines the scale and ambition of music reality entertainment Sa Re Ga Ma Pa premieres on September 19, 2026, every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 PM, only on Zee TV and Hindi Zee 5. Also Read: Anuraj Chahal opens up about his entry in the Zee TV serial Tu Hi Re Dil Mein; says, It will be one of the most interesting stories
South Bengal to get relief from heat as thunderstorms, rain forecast for five days
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) After days of sweltering heat, weather conditions in south Bengal are likely to change as the Met office on Thursday forecast thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rain over the next few days. Rain is likely at one or two places in almost all districts of south Bengal. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 km per hour are also expected. Kolkata, too, is likely to receive rain and thundershowers. According to a Met department official, the monsoon axis extends from a low-pressure area over Rajasthan to the northwest Bay of Bengal through Ranchi and Digha. In addition, a cyclonic circulation is currently present over the northwest Bay of Bengal. The system is expected to gradually strengthen and influence the West Bengal and Odisha coasts. As a result, south Bengal is likely to witness another spell of heavy rain from Thursday, which may continue for the next five days. A yellow warning for rain and thunderstorms has been issued for eight districts, including coastal and western areas. Thunderstorms are likely in Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas. However, the intensity of rainfall is expected to decrease from Monday. Meanwhile, rainfall is likely to increase in north Bengal on Thursday. A yellow warning for heavy rain has been issued for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30 to 40 km per hour is likely across the region. Rainfall activity in north Bengal is expected to decrease from Friday. Kolkata is likely to see cloudy skies from Thursday afternoon, with the possibility of rain increasing during the day. Light to moderate rain with thundershowers is expected to continue until Saturday. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40km per hour are also likely. On Wednesday, Kolkata and adjoining areas recorded a maximum temperature of 34.08 degrees Celsius, two degrees above normal. The minimum temperature was 27.06 degrees Celsius, 1.02 degrees above normal. Relative humidity ranged between 52 and 97 percent.
Star Cast: Austin Abrams, Zach Cherry, Kali Reis Director: Zach Cregger Resident Evil Movie Review Synopsis: RESIDENT EVIL is the story of a man's crazy night. Bryan (Austin Abrams) is a medical courier who reaches a hospital with a parcel. He wants to finish his job and return to his girlfriend Michelle to have an important discussion. However, Dr Maria Stokes (Emily Piggford) tempts him with double the fee to make a high-priority delivery to Raccoon City General Hospital. Bryan agrees and leaves immediately. The highway to Raccoon City is deserted and slippery from heavy snowfall. All of a sudden, he begins encountering strange creatures who initially appear to need help but instead try to attack him. What happens next forms the rest of the film. Resident Evil Movie Story Review: Zach Cregger and Shay Hatten's story is impressive as it remains in the zone of the RESIDENT EVIL series and at the same time, provides a novel touch. Zach Cregger and Shay Hatten's screenplay is gripping and the inclusion of jumpscares at regular intervals adds to the fun. However, the writing is slightly underwhelming in the second half. The dialogues add a dash of humour to the proceedings. Zach Cregger's direction is exemplary. He had proved his worth with WEAPONS [2025] and he brings his creative directorial skills once again in this film. RESIDENT EVIL began as a video game and this film is treated like one. As a result, there's a shift in tonality from the rest of the films, but ardent fans won't mind it, as Zach has handled it well. Also, one is aware that the zombies will attack. But when and how they'll attack is what keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This is especially during the madness that occurs on the highway and in the caravan. The climax is also quite arresting and the film ends on a decisive note. On the flipside, a bit of repetition sets in during the second half. The events of the first half are so nicely done that the second half pales in comparison. The entire underground drain sequence is interesting, but it needlessly drags the narrative and doesnt add much to the scare quotient. Moreover, despite the makers best efforts, some fans may miss the legacy characters. None of them are present, as the makers this time focus on new, original characters. Even the humour, at times, overpowers the scare element. Those watching the film in India may also be disappointed by the anti-alcohol and anti-smoking ticker at the bottom right of the screen, which is quite large and often distracts from the happenings on screen. A smaller ticker would have helped. Lastly, the series does not have a huge following in India. Resident Evil Movie Review Performances: Austin Abrams dominates maximum screen time and delivers a smashing and entertaining performance. Hes not playing a typical hero. Hes a young lad, confused about his future with his girlfriend, who is now forced to survive amid all the madness and chaos. Hence, his average Joe look and approach makes him very relatable. Zach Cherry (Carl) lends able support and Kali Reis (Maxine) is quite good. Paul Walter Hauser (Paul; scientist) is there for just a few minutes but shines. Johnno Wilson (Wilson; sheriff) is fair. Andrea Miltnerov (first zombie that Bryan encounters) rocks the show with her performance and expressions. Resident Evil movie music and other technical aspects: Hays Holladay and Ryan Holladay's music, along with Dariusz Wolski's cinematography, enhances the eeriness. Special mention must also be made of the stunning locations, which have been captured beautifully by the lensman. Caroline Fahrer's costumes are realistic. Tom Hammock's production design is well-researched. The action is gory but its crucial to the narrative and not added for the heck of it. The VFX is top-class. Joe Murphy's editing is overall satisfactory but could have been crisper in a few parts in the second half. Resident Evil Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, RESIDENT EVIL works due to Zach Creggers fresh video game-like treatment, Austin Abrams engaging performance and several well-executed scares. At the box office, its prospects in India may initially be limited by the franchises limited following, but it has the potential to spring a surprise if the target audience turns up in large numbers.
WPL 2027 to begin January 14; final scheduled for February 7, confirms BCCI
The fifth edition of the Women's Premier League will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027 while its auction will be held on October 28 this year in Kochi, the BCCI announced on Wednesday. The BCCI however did not disclose the host cities for the WPL. As the biggest T20 league in women's cricket, the TATA WPL has established itself as a significant platform for the growth of the sport, bringing together leading players from India and around the world while creating opportunities for emerging talent to perform at the highest level, said the BCCI in a statement. The Player Retention deadline is set for September 28. The five franchises will have the opportunity to retain players from their existing squads as they begin putting their combinations in place for the new season, the BCCI added.
'Spider-Man' beats 'Star Wars' to become highest-grossing film in North America
Spider-Man: Brand New Day has now become the highest-grossing film domestically. It surpassed Star Wars: The Force Awakens' long-standing box office record. The film has grossed approximately USD 936.773 million in North America. Globally, Spider-Man: Brand New Day has earned around USD 2.45 billion. Marvel Studios and Sony plan future releases for the franchise.
Project Poshan benefits 3.32 lakh people in Jharkhand & Odisha over three years: Data
Vipraj Nigam Called Up As Injured Chakaravarthy Ruled Out Of Asian Games
Japan T20I: Young leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam has been called up to replace the injured Varun Chakaravarthy in Indias squad for the upcoming Japan T20I and the Asian Games, the BCCI announced on Wednesday. Chakaravarthy has been ruled out of both assignments after suffering a side strain. The Men's Selection Committee has named Nigam as his replacement, and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, initially in the Asian Games squad, has been withdrawn from the continental event and will now be part of India's upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. The selection committee also announced India's squads for the white-ball home series against West Indies and the Rest of India squad for the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu & Kashmir. The series against West Indies will have three ODIs and five T20Is starting September 27. Shubman Gill will lead the ODI side, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also named in the squad. Shreyas Iyer will be in charge of the T20I team, the side comprising a combination of experienced players and young talent such as Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma. The ODI series will start in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27 and then go to Guwahati and New Chandigarh. The five-match T20I series will take place in Lucknow, Ranchi, Indore, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Rishabh Pant has been named the captain of the Rest of India team for the Irani Cup match versus Jammu & Kashmir, and Sarfaraz Khan has been named his deputy; the squad also includes Akash Deep, provided that he passes a fitness check. The Irani Cup squad includes several players who have featured prominently in domestic cricket, with Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Anukul Roy and Mukesh Kumar among those selected. India ODI squad vs West Indies Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (VC), Dhruv Jurel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Mohammed Siraj, Auqib Nabi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Naman Dhir. India T20I squad vs West Indies Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav. Rest of the India squad for the Irani Cup Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. *Subject to fitness clearance. Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (VC), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur, Vipraj Nigam. Article Source: IANS
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IPL chairman Arun Dhumal confirms push to bring 2027 auction back to India
The IPL auction is gearing up to make a comeback to India for its 2027 season. While the exact host city remains undecided, this event promises to be more intimate. Amid discussions surrounding the contentious Impact Player rule, the BCCI is actively gathering insights from franchises and stakeholders. Notably, several key Indian players have raised concerns regarding the effect of this rule on all-rounders' roles in the game.
Prepare profiles of criminals: SSP to cops
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'Want Afghanistan To Win One World Cup By The Time I Am In The Team,' Says Rashid Khan
Arun Jaitley Stadium: There is a particular kind of calm about Rashid Khan these days. The leg-spinner who once seemed to exist purely as a wicket-taking force of nature is now at his warm and affable self on the eve of the third T20I against India, a game which Afghanistan have to win to avoid a 3-0 series defeat. On Tuesday night at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Afghanistan faltered yet again, Rashid was the exception for the designated hosts: 28 with the bat, and 3-36 with the ball. The runs, in particular, were not an accident, so as were the three boundaries he hit off Arshdeep Singh in the 18th over (with the inside-out loft over cover for six being the standout). They were the product of a shift that began the day he walked into the Gujarat Titans dressing room in the IPL and was told he was no longer merely a bowler who could swing a bat. I have always wanted to bat; I started playing cricket by batting. I always wanted to bat. For a team, 20-25 runs are very important, and I wanted to do that for my team, especially in T20s. So how can I do that? Earlier, I didn't get that much batting. But since I came to Gujarat Titans, I have been getting more batting in the net sessions. Ashish (Nehra) bhai told me that I will play as a batter too and not just as a bowler. So, I focused more on batting. By working on and improving my batting, when I make runs in the match, I automatically get more confidence. It comes from confidence, and when that goes high, the practice and hard work pay off, Rashid told IANS in an exclusive interaction facilitated by Red Bull on Wednesday. The technical work and success in batting have been made possible by someone who is not someone who appears in the headlines. Naeem Amin, who Rashid met during his time at Gujarat Titans, is the man the premier leg-spinner calls first when something feels off. Amin, who also trained India stars Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya before they were in England, was quick to message Rashid after Tuesdays game was over. He has helped me a lot. To be honest, all my improved batting has been done by Naeem Amin. Not just in batting, but also in bowling. I always talk with him. Last night, when the match was over, he messaged me, saying that I had a lot of fun. But what I enjoyed the most was when you hit a six over mid-off against Arshdeep - that was the best effort for me. To be honest, before we came here, I had done 3-4 sessions with him. We were working on how to play straight, how to hit a straight six, and not hit cross-bat. He was very happy that I hit a straight six. He helped me a lot. My go-to person is Naeem Amin. I go to him and ask him what I did wrong and what I can do better. If Afghanistan's arrival as a side capable of beating anyone has a starting point, Rashid places it squarely at the 2023 ODI World Cup in India - the tournament where the underdog tag stopped being an excuse and started being a weapon. It also has a New Delhi connection they beat the then-reigning champions England and sent their loyal supporters back home in euphoria. Exactly, everything started from here. In the 2023 World Cup, we defeated England, then we defeated Sri Lanka and Pakistan -- we defeated big teams. Australia was also close, but it was an innings Maxwell played and changed the game. In the 2024 World Cup, we defeated New Zealand, then we defeated Australia and reached the semifinal, recalls Rashid. The list has only grown since. But Rashid is wary of a team that celebrates upsets rather than expects results, and he keeps returning to the same word. In the Champions Trophy, we defeated England in Pakistan. It was a great achievement for us in the last 3-4 years. That's when our cricket reached another level. Now, it's a tough challenge for us to maintain consistency. We want to do it again and again -- we don't just do it once, and that's it. That is because when you do it again and again, that's when you show consistency. It's a big challenge for us. It was a tough match for us against South Africa in the T20 World Cup; we played in a double super-over, and we didn't win the match. I think it's a positive thing that we played well and performed well. We will try to do better. We will try to find a way to defeat big teams again and again. When there is pressure, we will control ourselves and focus on our skills. The one subject on which Rashid's fluency briefly deserts him is the T20I captaincy role, which he held till Afghanistan exited this years T20 World Cup at the group stage. When that captaincy was taken from him and given to Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid let out a laugh. Le li (it was taken). I mean, I don't understand. Whatever happens, it will be for the good. We don't know what the future holds for us. For me, it was my destiny to lead Afghanistan to this much. It was the same for Jonathan Trott. It was his destiny. I always wanted to lead the team and do well. But there are some things that you can't control. You have to accept, as a player, that you have to move on and play for the country. I know it's not there, but hopefully, Ibrahim is a good young guy. We all know how skilful he is. Hopefully, he can lead the team and win more matches in Afghanistan. For a cricketer whose career was briefly affected by back surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup and extensive pain management after that, the most significant scoreline of 2026 is no complaints, no pain, no management plans. To achieve that, red-ball cricket, Rashids favourite format, has been put on the back burner. It's been sabse zabardast (very fantastic). I want every year to be like this one only 2026. I want to perform well and try to do well. So far, it's great in both formats, T20 and ODIs. The biggest thing is that my back supports me a lot. It helps me a lot, and I don't get any complaints from my back. So, I'm so happy about that. That turnaround, he says, owes a great deal to a few days in Austria at Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Salzburg, Australia, where the diagnosis was less about treatment for the back. Yes, it was very important. I was struggling a lot with my back. Then, I went to Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Austria. I wanted to do a full-body check-up to see where I could do better and the areas where my back was having problems. Even after the surgery, I was getting pain little by little. The 2-3 days that I spent there were very big days for me because I did a check-up of my whole body and found out my strengths and weaknesses. I was so impressed with it that I wanted to go again. Inshallah, I will go there for 2-3 weeks for training only. It was a good experience where I clearly got an idea of my body. We did a full-body check-up, and then for half a day, we sat with the physiotherapists and discussed the areas that needed to be improved by showing them on the screen. That really helped me and gave me a clear picture of where I do better. It's simple for me. Apart from the recovery, the nutrition aspect has been super simple for Rashid, whose favourite food is Dal Makhani. It's simple for me. I don't exercise too much, don't do much extra dieting, or eat everything, and I try to keep it simple. I am not strict - like, I don't have a weight machine with me, and I eat too much or too little, and I try to eat only what is good for myself and my health, as if you become rigid, then the guy becomes mentally affected. Sometimes, I feel like I want to eat biryani today and then have it once a week. I mean, too many restrictions are also not fine like no biryani at all. But I try to eat as much healthy food as possible. We all know what is healthy and what is not. You don't ask anyone about that. The more you eat healthy food, the less unhealthy stuff you eat, and your diet automatically goes as per that. I don't focus much on high-protein things. Whatever the body wishes to eat, I do that to give it sukoon (peace). If the body is happy, then you are also happy. Ask him what has changed most in the last 12 months and the answer has nothing to do with cricket. Rashid's son, Azlan, has rewired how quickly he can leave a bad day behind and, going by his own admission, that has had a startling effect on his wicket column. Before he was born, my mind wouldn't get fresh quickly. But now when I see his face or video-call him, my whole body relaxes. He is also a lucky charm for me. Since he came to the ground for the first match in England, I took five wickets. Then, in 3 matches, he came to Ireland, and I took 12 scalps. He is a lucky charm. He woke up during last night's match and watched it when I picked three wickets. He was sleeping in the previous match, and that's why my performance was not good. He is my happiness. He is my lucky charm. It's a different feeling. With a younger group now coming through, Rashid and his contemporaries find themselves in the role of custodians - telling the newcomers not just where Afghanistan cricket is, but what it cost to get here. We do talk to them. But we have put in a lot of effort, practised a lot, and given a lot of qurbani (sacrifices). All of it was done by the senior players, and I think this stage is the result of that. It's not like we got some things for free. We have put in a lot of effort. It's a matter of where we started to where we are now like from starting by playing against small teams to beating big sides. We do talk about it, but how to bring consistency in that and defeat them constantly and always bring in good performances. Home, for this team, is largely an idea sustained across hotel rooms in other countries, including playing away games. Rashid's squad packs it the only way it can - in small, edible, and familiar things. It's difficult to take so many things from Afghanistan with us. We don't spend much time in Afghanistan. But people's love and prayers are always with us, wherever we go. We can't take anything else with us, apart from their love and prayers. But we do carry the most famous dry fruits in Afghanistan to bring that home-like feeling. Like we eat dry fruits and have green tea in Afghanistan. We do the same around it so that we get back that feeling. Hopefully one day we can play an international match in Afghanistan - in Kabul and other cities. It's going to be a dream. New Delhi, meanwhile, is a city he knows well enough to have a favourite haunt he can no longer visit in peace Mazaar, a popular Afghan cuisine serving restaurant in Lajpat Nagar, a place where the diaspora is supremely active, apart from Bhogal in Jangpura. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. For all the records, franchise titles and wickets in every league on planet Earth, Rashid's definition of a career well spent will come down to a single, unclaimed piece of silverware an ICC title. Afghanistan came within touching distance of it in the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup, when they entered the semi-finals. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories But the most important thing is that I want Afghanistan to win one World Cup by the time I am there in the team. I think this will be a big achievement for me. I hope that before I retire, I have this in the book that yes, we won the championship or a World Cup, whether it is T20 or ODI, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
Drone developed by IIT(ISM) alumnus nearly doubles Armys high-altitude endurance target
Congress Demands Separate Column for OBC in Census at Ranchi March
Congress leaders in Ranchi marched to demand a separate column for OBC in the upcoming census, highlighting the need for accurate socio-economic data. Congress Demands Separate Column for OBC in Census at Ranchi March
Congress March in Ranchi Demands Separate Column for OBC in Census
Congress leaders in Ranchi advocate for a separate column for OBCs in the upcoming census, emphasizing the need for accurate data. Congress March in Ranchi Demands Separate Column for OBC in Census
172 killed in 239 road accidents in Palamu till Aug, shows data
NDSA orders safety unit at Patratu dam over defunct electric gate system
WPL 2027 To Begin On January 14, Auction On October 28 In Kochi
WPL Player Auction: The fifth edition of the Womens Premier League (WPL) will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announcing the key dates for the upcoming season on Wednesday. The first major deadline on the road to the new campaign will be the player retention deadline on September 28, giving the five franchises an opportunity to decide which members of their existing squads they want to retain. The next stage of squad-building will take place at the WPL Player Auction on October 28. The auction will be held at the Grand Hyatt Kochi, where franchises will seek to fill gaps and finalise their combinations for the fifth season. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. The retention window will be particularly significant as franchises assess their squads ahead of the auction. With the five teams required to build balanced combinations across batting, bowling and all-round options, decisions made in September will shape their approach in Kochi a month later. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the dates now confirmed, the immediate focus shifts to the franchises and their retention plans. Once those decisions are made by September 28, attention will turn to Kochi, where the October 28 auction will provide the next major step towards assembling the squads for the 2027 season. Article Source: IANS
16-year-old girl found dead in Chatra forest, police investigate
