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.
PKL media rights in flux as JioStar, teams seek to avert an ISL-style fallout
Pro Kabaddi League media rights talks involve JioStar seeking a fee reduction and franchises protecting the previous benchmark. Franchise owners are divided on open bidding, fearing a collapse like the Indian Super League. JioStar incurred losses and viewership has stagnated, prompting discussions for league growth. Discussions also include reducing franchise fees while increasing revenue share for teams.
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
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.
The makers of Drishyam: The Conclusion have released the first song from the soundtrack, titled Vingansa, offering a musical preview of the tension and retribution at the core of Vijay Salgaonkars story. Arriving after a gripping trailer that reintroduced Ajay Devgn as Vijay and brought in Jaideep Ahlawat as SP Crime Branch Rajveer Singh Tomar, the song underscores the mounting pressure around Vijays long-guarded secret. The title Vingansa draws from the Portuguese word vingana, meaning revenge, and the composition leans into that emotion with a dark, brooding soundscape. The track is built around themes of anger and confrontation, suggesting a world where old wounds remain raw and vengeance now runs parallel to the pursuit of truth. Composer Ravi Basrur said, With 'Vingansa', I wanted the music to feel like the pressure was slowly building. There is a lot happening beneath the surface in Vijay's world, and the music needed to carry that without becoming too loud or obvious. Siddharth's voice has that rawness and intensity which worked beautifully for the song. Aamil's words also gave me a strong emotional space to build the composition around. Lyricist Aamil Keeyan Khan said, This composition by Ravi Basrur ji was so catchy and yet so peculiar that it demanded an equally peculiar word. 'Vingansa' is a Goan word that comes from the Portuguese word for revenge or vengeance. Revenge in this story is not simply about anger; it comes from everything these characters have done and carried with them for years. I wanted the lyrics to have that weight. The song had to feel like it belonged to the world of Drishyam, where every action has an equally terrifying reaction. Singer Siddharth Basrur said, When I heard the composition, I immediately felt that this song needed a certain rawness. It couldn't sound too perfect or too controlled. There is a lot of aggression and emotion underneath 'Vingansa', and I tried to keep that feeling alive in the vocals. Ravi's music already had so much intensity that my job was really to get inside that emotion and let the voice carry it. With 'Vingansa', the franchise gives audiences its first musical window into the concluding chapter, where every secret carries a cost and every decision could tip the balance. The film is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Drishyam: The Conclusion is presented by Star Studio18 and directed by Abhishek Pathak. Produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, with Sanjeev Joshi as co-producer, the ensemble features Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, Jaideep Ahlawat, Prakash Raj, Rajat Kapoor, Ishita Dutta, Mrunal Jadhav and Kamlesh Sawant. The song is available now across streaming platforms via Sony Music India. Also Read: We were thinking like Salgaonkar while writing: Director Abhishek Pathak on crafting Drishyam The Conclusions unpredictable twists
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
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 .
'Something special in Gujarat soil: Titans recalls Vadnagar visit on PM Modis birthday
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Gujarat Titans on Thursday marked Prime Minister Narendra Modis 76th birthday by sharing a video from the IPL franchises visit to Vadnagar last year, taking a look back at a trip that connected the team with the town where the Prime Minister was born. The Titans shared glimpses of their visit to Vadnagar on social media, highlighting the towns history and its connection with PM Modi.In the video, the IPL franchise looked back at its 2025 visit to the Gujarat town and recalled the significance of Vadnagar, where PM Modi was born on September 17, 1950. There is something special in the soil of Gujarat. And to experience this, lets go to a small city in Gujarat, Varnagar. The same city where our countrys Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, was born, the Titans said in the video. Our Gujarat Titans had also come here. At that time, we did not know that one day these memories would become so special, the franchise added. During their Vadnagar visit, the Titans players explored the Vadnagar Archaeological Experiential Museum, which showcases the towns archaeological and cultural history. Another important stop for the team was Prerna Sankul, an experiential learning centre aimed at connecting students and educators with science, culture and values. The visit also had a personal connection to the Prime Minister, as the centre is associated with his early schooling years. The video ended with a birthday message for PM Modi, saying, Happy 76th birthday, Narendra Modi. PM Modi was born in Vadnagar in 1950, three years after India gained independence, making him the first prime minister of the country to have been born in independent India. He is also the longest-serving prime minister from a non-Congress party. October will mark 25 years of PM Modis public service. He began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and has led the Bharatiya Janata Party to victory in three consecutive general elections.
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
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
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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
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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
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BCCI decided to bring IPL 2027 auction back to India: Report
IPL 2027 auction: BCCI will hold the IPL 2027 mini auction in India, ending a three year run of overseas venues that included Dubai, Jeddah and Abu Dhabi, according to Cricbuzz. The decision, taken at a Governing Council meeting on September 15, follows franchise concerns over overseas logistics.
Protests Erupt in Ranchi Over Demolition Drive, Bypass Road Blocked
Local protests in Ranchi disrupt traffic as residents oppose demolition of illegal structures along the HEC bypass road. Protests Erupt in Ranchi Over Demolition Drive, Bypass Road Blocked
Courteney Cox wants to direct Scream 8 after decades with the franchise
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India to host IPL 2027 player auction; first time since 2023: Report
According to the report, the decision to bring the auction back to India followed concerns raised by franchises over the logistical and operational challenges of travelling overseas for a mini-auction
Rasika Dugal drops glimpse with Mirzapur co-stars, calls back to the queens
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Indias Remarkable Asian Games Cricket Story: Two Misses, Two Gold Medals
Crickets entry into the Asian Games was supposed to be a landmark moment for the sport in the continent. The story began in May 2009, when the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) approved cricket as an Asian Games sport. It was to make its debut at Guangzhou in 2010, with Twenty20 chosen as the format for both men and women. The OCA was particularly keen on the participation of India and Pakistan, believing their presence would give the new competition credibility and help promote cricket in countries where it was still relatively unfamiliar. But India did not turn up. Why India missed Guangzhou 2010 The BCCI said its mens and womens teams were unavailable because India were scheduled to host New Zealand for a full Test and ODI series in November 2010 and decided it could not spare its leading players for the Asian Games. There was an attempt to find a compromise by sending a second-string Indian team, but amid differences between the BCCI and the Indian Olympic Association over the composition of the squad, this also did not happen. Indias absence was a major disappointment, as cricket had been introduced into the Games with the expectation that the continents leading cricket nations would support the event. The disappointment was particularly sharp in Guangzhou, where a 6,532-seat international cricket stadium was constructed specifically for the Games to showcase a sport largely unfamiliar to the Chinese public. The absence of Indian cricketers deprived the event of some of its biggest potential stars. Indias absence also became part of a wider debate about crickets place in multi-sport events. The OCA wanted the Asian Games to help spread the game beyond its traditional strongholds. India says no again in 2014 Four years later, the same story was repeated at the Incheon Asian Games. This time, the principal problem was the Champions League Twenty20, held in India from September 13 to October 4, overlapping almost exactly with the Asian Games from September 19 to October 4. Four IPL teams were involved in the Champions League, meaning many of Indias leading players were committed to their franchises. The BCCI argued that the cricket calendar was already too congested to accommodate another assignment. But the decision was particularly controversial because India did not send its womens team either, although they had no comparable international fixture clash. India was again the only Asian Test-playing nation not to participate in either the mens or womens competition. The decision drew an unusually strong response from OCA president Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah. He accused India of putting commercial interests ahead of the wider development of cricket and said its repeated absence was damaging the sports expansion. Indias absence also stood out because other cricket boards were willing to participate despite their own scheduling problems. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh entered both competitions, while Pakistan sent its womens team. The change came in Hangzhou The breakthrough finally came at the 2022 Asian Games, held in Hangzhou in 2023 after the Games were postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time, India entered both the mens and womens cricket competitions. The senior Indian mens team was simultaneously involved in the ODI World Cup being played at home. India therefore sent a second-string but highly talented squad to Hangzhou, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad. The womens team entered the competition with a strong squad led by Harmanpreet Kaur. Indias long-awaited debut could hardly have been more successful. The women claimed Indias first cricket gold at the Asian Games, and the men followed with gold of their own. After refusing to participate in the first two editions, India walked away from its first Asian Games cricket appearance with two gold medals. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The transformation was striking. In 2010 and 2014, it prompted accusations that the country was putting business ahead of the sports wider interests. By 2023, India became its dominant cricketing force and now returns to the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games not as a reluctant participant, but as the defending champion in both mens and womens cricket.
Big B remembers Motilal, Geeta Bali, Savitri: They performed, not exactly acted
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has reflected on the rare art of effortless performance, remembering legendary actors Motilal, Geeta Bali and Savitri as performers who, in his words, performed, not exactly acted in the true sense. The icon took to his blog where he said their natural talent made them equally loved and admired. He started the blog with: A little contemplation is never undue .. many thoughts run through ....work related .. and many other forms .. but substantial and effective when you bring a semblance of the casual in the temperament(sic). The proclamation that often happens in an outreach for a proposed presence to enhance a moment .. the proclamation never works according to me .. casually conveyance is the call of the hour for there is reason do we ever proclaim in our dailies each day or there is a sense of the casual .. would say: casualness be the corner stone of all stones(sic).. Later in the blog, Amitabh delved into the idea of natural performance, recalling Motilal, Geeta Bali and Savitri as actors whose work never seemed forced. Actors with the natural talent of non performance, when performing are the ones that be loved admired with proven followings Motilal ji , Geeta Bali , Savitri .. are some that come to mind instantly , though there are several others that are brilliant .. they performed , not exactly acted in the true sense .. loved and admired equally... nothing shall come of nothing .... and with equal sense of the 'retirement' .. to bed (sic). Talking about work, Big B is currently see in Kaun Banega Crorepati, which is the official Hindi version of the original British format Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The format is similar to other shows in the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? franchise: contestants are asked multiple choice questions and must select the correct answer from four possible choices, and are provided with lifelines that may be used if they are uncertain. Big B, who was last seen Vettaiyan directed by T. J. Gnanavel, will reportedly be seen in Nitesh Tiwarys upcoming magnum opus Ramayana: Part 1. The upcoming film will also star Yash, Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Sunny Deol. The icon will reportedly play the character of Jatayu. Amitabh is currently busy with filmmaker Nag Ashwins Kalki 2898 AD sequel. The film also stars Kamal Haasan and Prabhas. Meanwhile, legendary actor Motilal Rajvansh was known for his work in Devdas and Parakh. He also directed the film Chhoti Chhoti Baten in 1965, but died before its release. Savitri is as one of the greatest actresses in the history of Indian cinema, she was popularly known by the epithets Mahanati in Telugu and Nadigaiyar Thilagam in Tamil. Savitri was among the highest-paid in South Indian cinema during the 1950s and 1960s and is often considered the Queen of Telugu cinema Geeta Bali is regarded among the finest actresses in the history of Indian cinema. She acted in over 75 films in a career spanning over two decades. Bali started her career as a child artist with The Cobbler in 1942 and had her first success with Sohag Raat in 1948. She married actor Shammi Kapoor in 1955, with whom she has two children including actor Aditya Raj Kapoor.
Hanuman Ansh Day 40 vs Toxic Day 21: Inside Their Contrasting Box Office Runs
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Ivar Stenberg Flashes Star Potential in Sharks Rookie Faceoff Debut
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Makers of Mirzapur: The Movie release Sanson Ki Mala lyrical video
The makers of Mirzapur: The Movie have released the lyrical video of the song Sanson Ki Mala. The film, backed by Excel Entertainment and Amazon MGM Studios, stars Pankaj Tripathi, Divyenndu and Ali Fazal in key roles. It marks the franchises transition from the streaming space to the big screen, bringing its familiar characters and world to cinemas. The film has been performing at the box office since its theatrical release, and the makers have now unveiled the lyrical video of Sanson Ki Mala. The song brings a romantic element to the intense world of Mirzapur and features moments highlighting the chemistry between the couples from the franchise. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Excel Entertainment (@excelmovies) Sanson Ki Mala is sung by Madhur Sharma, with music produced by Vaibhav Pani. The song features lyrics by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Sharing the lyrical video on social media, the makers wrote, Sanson ki mala pe, Simroon mein Pi ka naam. Sanson Ki Mala Lyrical Video Out Now! #MirzapurTheMovie, in cinemas now in Hindi & Telugu. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur: The Movie is directed by Gurmmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna. The film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment, and co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia and Vishal Ramchandani. Also Read : Amul India gives Mirzapur: The Movie a MASKAPUR twist with Kaleen Bhaiya creative
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'We aim to create opportunities for young players,' says OCA Prez ahead of Odisha T20 League
Digital Desk | Cuttack, Sep 15 (IANS) With less than a week to go for the start of the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy, excitement is building across the state as teams prepare for the new edition of the tournament. Six franchises, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Puri Titans, Keonjhar Miners, Rourkela Superstars, Sambalpur Warriors and Kataka Panthers, will compete for the title in the tournament scheduled to begin on September 20 and run until September 29 at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), said, The excitement around the Odisha T20 League is growing with every passing day. We are looking forward to a competitive and exciting edition of the tournament. The league is an important platform for Odisha cricket as it gives our players the opportunity to play competitive T20 cricket, perform under pressure and gain valuable experience. We aim to continue strengthening the cricketing structure in Odisha and create more opportunities for young players. We have seen several talented cricketers emerge from the state, and a tournament like this can give them the exposure and confidence to take the next step in their careers. We are confident that the players, teams and fans will make this edition a memorable one, he added. Sanjay Behera, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) Secretary, said, The Odisha T20 League is about creating a pathway for the next generation of cricketers in the state. Competitive matches give young players the chance to test themselves in pressure situations, learn from experienced players and understand what it takes to perform at a higher level. We hope this edition will help more players gain confidence and take important steps forward in their careers. The tournament will also feature a womens exhibition match on the final day, adding another attraction for fans and providing women cricketers with an opportunity to showcase their skills on a big stage. With six franchises and 17 matches, the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy will bring together some of the states brightest cricketing talent. The tournament is expected to provide young players with a strong platform to gain match experience and put their performances in front of a wider audience at the Barabati Stadium, which has hosted international matches in the past. As the countdown begins, fans across Odisha will be looking forward to seeing their favourite teams and emerging stars in action, with the league aiming to further strengthen the states growing cricketing culture.
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The inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) has received recognition from the World Cricketers Association (WCA) for its approach to player engagement and professional standards. In its latest Global Leagues Hub Update, WCA CEO Tom Moffat described ETPL as a good example of what can be achieved when leagues engage player representatives early and work constructively to establish clear arrangements before players take the field. The WCA listed ETPL under its Positive Progress section, noting it for demonstrating leading best practice through early engagement with WCA, and the Irish, Dutch and Scottish Cricketers Associations to collectively negotiate player agreements ahead of its inaugural season. The recognition highlights ETPLs efforts to establish player representation, contractual clarity, timely payments and professional standards as part of the leagues framework from the beginning. The competition is being developed as a multi-country T20 league involving Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands. Abhishek Bachchan, Co-Founder, European T20 Premier League, said, The WCAs recognition is a tremendous validation of what we set out to build. We wanted to create a league respected not only for the cricket on the field, but for the standards and values behind it. Building the right foundations from the outset is critical to creating a league that players want to play in, franchises are proud to be part of, and fans can identify with. Dhiraj Malhotra, Co-Founder, European T20 Premier League, said, Creating the right environment for players was fundamental to our vision. We wanted players to have clarity, confidence and the assurance that ETPL would operate to the highest professional standards. The WCAs recognition is a very proud moment for all of us. Saurav Banerjee, Co-Founder, European T20 Premier League, said, Player representation, clear contracts, timely payments and professional standards had to be part of ETPLs foundation. Good governance is about clear structures, accountability and consistency, and the WCAs recognition is a strong affirmation of that approach. Priyanka Kaul, Co-Founder, European T20 Premier League, said, Credibility is earned through the way you operate and the commitments you keep. Building that credibility with players, partners, franchises, cricket boards and fans has been central to our vision. Setting this benchmark in our first year gives us an even greater responsibility to keep raising it. The WCAs Global Leagues Hub, established in 2024, provides independent information on major domestic leagues. It evaluates competitions against criteria identified by players, player associations and agents as important to professional standards and player welfare. Warren Deutrom, ETPL Board Director, said, For a new league to have longevity, good governance has to be part of its foundation. It has to shape how decisions are made, how responsibilities are defined and how the league is held accountable. In this instance, we recognised the importance of engaging early with the players associations to ensure the league was built around placing players at the centre of what were trying to build. The WCAs recognition is a welcome validation of that approach and the standards we are seeking to establish for professional cricket in Europe. The recognition comes as ETPL looks beyond its inaugural season. The league said it will continue working with players, player associations, franchises and cricket board partners to develop the professional framework established in its first year. The European T20 Premier League is a multi-country T20 competition spanning Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, with six franchise teams representing Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Founded by Abhishek Bachchan, Saurav Banerjee, Priyanka Kaul and Dhiraj Malhotra, along with GREX, the league is being developed in partnership with Cricket Ireland, Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB). ETPL aims to establish a professional cricket platform in Europe while bringing together international and emerging players and expanding audiences, participation and commercial opportunities for the sport across the continent. Also Read : Abhishek Bachchans ETPL receives a strong response at its European debut
Congress Leader Rakesh Sinha Criticizes Government on Multiple Issues in Ranchi
Rakesh Sinha of Congress criticizes the government on recruitment exams, OBC issues, and economic concerns during a press conference in Ranchi. Congress Leader Rakesh Sinha Criticizes Government on Multiple Issues in Ranchi
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David Warner To Play In Nepal Premier League For Kathmandu Gorkhas
Nepal Premier League: Former Australian batter David Warner has joined Kathmandu Gorkhas to play in Nepal Premier League season 3, the franchise announced on Tuesday. Hi everyone, I am really excited to be coming to Nepal and joining the Kathmandu Gorkhas squad. I know it has been an incredibly difficult time for so many, and I hope that the NPL could bring some joy and give people something to come together, Warner said in the video posted by the NPL franchise. I have heard so much about the passion and the fans. I can't wait to experience it all. I can't wait to meet you and get out there and be with my team. Three cities, one soul, one team and one dream. Ayo Gorkhali! Warner concluded in his video address. The franchise is also pretty excited to have the 2021 T20 World Champion in their squad. 12th Warriors, you manifested this! Two-time ICC Mens Cricket World Cup champion. T20 World Cup champion and Player of the Tournament. World Test Championship winner. Triple centurion. And the only player to win three IPL Orange Caps, the franchise wrote on X. One of world crickets most explosive names is now coming to our Valley. This one is for our 12th Warriors. This one is for Nepal cricket. David Warner, welcome to the Valley, it added. Warner has been one of the most prolific batters in the IPL. He is the highest-scorer among overseas players in the Indian cash-rich league with 6565 runs in 184 matches and is one of the only four players to have scored over 6000 runs in the tournament's 19-year-long history. During his time, he played for the Delhi Capitals and is a 2016 IPL winner with the Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, he was not picked in the IPL 2025 mega auction and did not register for the 2026 edition after missing out on a bid. Apart from the IPL, Warner has been one of the most sought-after players in franchise cricket and still continues to be a regular face in several franchise leagues, having recently featured in the BBL 2025/26 and the PSL 2026. Meanwhile, Anubhab Swar Sirohiya, executive director of Kathmandu Gorkhas, hailed the signing of the former Australian batter. This moment is deeply personal to me as well, said Sirohiya. Bringing David Warner to the Kathmandu Gorkhas was not something that happened overnight. It took months of conversations, persistence and belief from everyone involved. There were many moments when it felt difficult, but the possibility of seeing a player of his stature represent Kathmandu and play at the TU Cricket Ground made every effort worthwhile. Meanwhile, Anubhab Swar Sirohiya, executive director of Kathmandu Gorkhas, hailed the signing of the former Australian batter. This moment is deeply personal to me as well, said Sirohiya. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This is for Nepali cricket. And above all, this is for every cricket fan in Nepal who has always believed that our country and our game deserve the biggest stage. Article Source: IANS
Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India to Draft HIL Revival Plan
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has directed Hockey India and franchise owners of the Hockey India League (HIL) to prepare a comprehensive roadmap ensuring the leagues financial viability and sustainability. At a meeting attended by senior ministry officials, franchise representatives, and Hockey India executives, Mandaviya emphasised the need to prioritise the Governance Model, Financial Model, and [] The post Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India to Draft HIL Revival Plan appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Shah Rukh Khan has THIS to say about Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar
Shah Rukh Khan has praised Ranveer Singhs Dhurandhar franchise, revealing during a recent Ask SRK session that he watched both instalments. Calling them fantastic, SRK also lauded the entire team behind the action drama
Sohum Shahs Tumbbad gets themed Ganesh pandals across cities in India, watch videos
Sohum Shahs Tumbbad, when it was released, created a massive cult following. More than just a film, it became a phenomenon whose fanbase only grew stronger with time, with the 2024 re-release, emerging as one of the highest-grossing Indian re-releases. The films storyline, setting, and performances captured hearts, and the craze seems not to have slowed down. As the anticipation for Tumbbad 2 continues to rise, the craze for Tumbbad seems to have taken over the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities as well. Several cities across India witnessed Tumbbad-themed Ganesh pandals, with videos of different pandals making rounds online. From Hastar crawling out of the walls and eerie red walls to a goddess statue holding a pot-like object at the entrance and behind Ganesh idols, along with eerie hallways and pandals inspired by the world of Tumbbad, the celebrations showcased just how massive the craze for the film continues to be. View this post on Instagram A post shared by oumik Chakraborty ( som) (@__soumik_raj_chakraborty) Apart from Sohum Shah, Tumbbad also starred Mohammad Samad, Jyoti Malshe, Ronjini Chakraborty, Anita Dale Kelkar, among others. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chocolate (@sukesh_purohit) The 2018 film, headlined by Sohum Shah, gradually built a strong fanbase with its unique visual aesthetic, folklore-driven narrative and atmospheric storytelling. The film found an even wider audience with its 2024 theatrical re-release, which went on to become a major success at the box office. View this post on Instagram A post shared by | (@itsvibewithpriya) The upcoming sequel has already created significant buzz, with Nawazuddin Siddiqui joining the cast, followed by Alia Bhatt coming on board in a pivotal role. Actor-producer Sohum Shah announced the casting in July, bringing Shah, Bhatt and Siddiqui together for the next chapter of the franchise. Also Read: Nawazuddin Siddiqui calls Tumbbad 2 a very amazing project; says I can feel proud of that project
Shah Rukh Khan BREAKS silence on Ranveer Singh starrer Dhurandhar; says, Loved both the parts
Shah Rukh Khan has finally shared his thoughts on Dhurandhar, the Ranveer Singh starrer duology that has been among the major talking points in Hindi cinema. The superstar spoke about the film during a recent #AskSRK session on X (formerly Twitter), where he responded to a fans question about whether he had watched the two-part franchise. During the interactive session, a fan asked Shah Rukh Khan, Have you seen Dhurandhar? #AskSRK. Responding to the question, the actor revealed that he had watched both instalments of the film and praised the entire team. Shah Rukh Khan replied, Loved both the parts....fantastic by the whole team!!! The brief response marks his first direct reaction to Dhurandhar and comes as the franchise continues to remain a subject of discussion among audiences and the film industry. His appreciation also extends beyond the performances, as he specifically credited the entire team behind the project. Loved both the parts....fantastic by the whole team!!! Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 15, 2026 Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar features Ranveer Singh in the lead, with the franchise presented as a two-part film. The project has generated considerable interest since its release, with its scale, cast and subject becoming key talking points. Shah Rukh Khans comments came as part of his latest #AskSRK interaction, a format through which the actor connects with fans and answers questions about his films, career and personal interests. With the superstar now having publicly expressed his appreciation for both parts of Dhurandhar, his simple yet enthusiastic reaction is likely to add another talking point around the franchise. Also Read: R Madhavan auditioned for Shah Rukh Khans role in Swades, reveals co-writer Amin Hajee: He absolutely killed it. He is a great actor
Rasika Dugal shares a pic of Mirzapur queens featuring Shriya Pilgaonkar
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 15 (IANS) Actress Rasika Dugal took a trip down memory lane as she shared a carousel of pictures offering glimpses of her life lately. She also included a frame featuring the women of the Mirzapur franchise, which she captioned as The Queens. The carousel opens with Rasika posing with a dog named Max. In the picture, the actress, dressed in a light blue saree, is seen affectionately holding the dog's face as she smiles for the camera. Another behind-the-scenes picture shows her seated for hair and makeup, with her hair styled in pigtails. The carousel also features quirky Hindi signs reading Meri Saheli and Meri Begum, a picture of Rasika holding a bouquet of flowers and a handwritten note that reads, Philaver hi toh hai. Laiph-time thodi hi rehta hai, signed by Tuku, Appu and Sid. Another picture shows the actress enjoying time with Max while dressed in a green saree. She also shared another group picture featuring women, including veteran actress Sheeba Chaddha and Shriya Pilgaonkar, with the text The Queens written across the picture. Rasika captioned the carousel, Inn Dinon. For the uninitiated, Rasika has been an integral part of the Mirzapur franchise since its first season, playing the character of Beena Tripathi, wife of Akhandanand Kaleen Tripathi, portrayed by Pankaj Tripathi. The actress has now reprised the role for Mirzapur: The Movie, which marks the franchise's transition from the streaming platform to the big screen. The film brings back many of the franchise's popular characters, including Pankaj Tripathi as Kaleen Bhaiya, Ali Fazal as Guddu Pandit, Divyenndu as Munna Tripathi, Rasika as Beena Tripathi, Shweta Tripathi Sharma, Shriya Pilgaonkar and Abhishek Banerjee. The film also features Ravi Kishan, Jitendra Kumar, Mohit Malik, Sheeba Chaddha and Sonal Chauhan, among others. Directed by Gurmmeet Singh and written and created by Puneet Krishna, Mirzapur: The Movie is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under Excel Entertainment. The movie was released in cinemas on September 4, 2026, and has been receiving great response. The original Mirzapur series premiered on OTT in 2018 and went on to become one of India's most popular crime dramas. Its second season arrived in 2020, followed by the third season in 2024.
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Delhi Police busts pan-India matrimonial cyber fraud call centre in Agra; mastermind arrested
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) The Central District Cyber Police have busted an organised pan-India matrimonial cyber fraud racket being operated from a call centre in Agra under the facade of a branded matrimonial portal, shaadipartner.com, and arrested its mastermind, a practising advocate. According to the police, the syndicate targeted men seeking matrimonial alliances and used fake profiles, photographs of women sourced from the internet and staged conversations to create an impression of genuine matchmaking services. The racket operated on the principle of 'cheat small, cheat many', with the accused deliberately limiting the amount extracted from an individual victim to a maximum of Rs 15,000. The investigation began following a complaint lodged on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) by a man who alleged that he had been induced, deceived and defrauded on the false promise of being provided a matrimonial alliance through shaadipartner.com. Following the complaint, FIR No. 78/2025 was registered at Cyber Police Station, Central District, under Sections 318(4), 317(5), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to the investigation, the syndicate had been operating the racket for around one year and systematically targeting matrimonial seekers across different parts of the country. To lure prospective victims, the fraudsters initially shared photographs of attractive women through WhatsApp. To establish trust and create the appearance of an authentic matchmaking process, they allegedly arranged telephonic conversations between the complainants and women posing as prospective brides. Once a victim developed an emotional connection or expressed genuine interest, the accused allegedly induced him to make payments at different stages. The victim was charged under various pretexts, including registration charges, profile access fees, profile activation charges and contact-unlocking fees. In the case under investigation, the complainant was allegedly defrauded of Rs 15,000. Subsequent technical investigation and analysis of the financial trail established that the entire amount allegedly defrauded from the complainant was credited directly into a current account with the Central Bank of India. The account, bearing the number 0512****190, was registered in the name of the commercial entity M/s Shaadi Partner Com. According to banking records and KYC details, Jaya Shakya alias Shashi was the sole proprietor and authorised signatory of the beneficiary account. Further analysis through the NCRP database revealed that the same bank account was linked to six complaints registered from different parts of the country. Police said the findings indicated an active and coordinated racket that primarily targeted male matrimonial seekers across India using a similar modus operandi. Acting on the information gathered during the investigation, a police team raided an illegal and fully functional tele-calling call centre operating from Property No. 25, Ramaji Dham Apartment, Sikandra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, on September 4. Jaya Shakya, 44, who served as the operational manager and front face of the establishment, was arrested at the spot. Eight female tele-callers were also apprehended during the operation. During sustained custodial interrogation of Jaya Shakya after she was brought to Delhi, investigators uncovered the identity of the person behind the operation. Police said the call centre was financed, owned and masterminded by Amit Kumar, 29, an advocate and BA LLB graduate. According to investigators, Kumar used his knowledge of legal procedures and documentation to create a multi-layered structure aimed at shielding himself from direct scrutiny. Investigators said the banking channels and procurement of SIM cards were also structured in the name of the proprietorship firm. This ensured that any initial investigation into the financial transactions or communication channels would lead to Jaya Shakya rather than Kumar. Police alleged that Kumar presented himself as the firms 'Legal Advisor', thereby attempting to establish plausible deniability and avoid direct police scrutiny. Following the raid on September 4, Kumar switched off his mobile phones and went underground after learning that the Agra call centre had been raided by Delhi Police. The investigation team subsequently deployed technical surveillance to track his movements and zeroed in on his location in Agra. On September 8, police intercepted Kumar in the Kala Kunj area of Agra while he was travelling in a black Hyundai Creta bearing an 'Advocate' sticker on its windshields. According to the police, Kumar displayed his credentials issued by the Uttar Pradesh State Bar Council and claimed that he was merely acting as a legal counsel. However, investigators said that digital evidence gathered during the probe contradicted his claim. Police subsequently arrested Kumar on September 8. According to police, female tele-callers were recruited through vacancies advertised on recruitment platforms such as WorkIndia and Apna App, as well as through newspaper advertisements. The recruits were allegedly made to believe that they were joining a genuine matrimonial service. To establish the credibility of the operation, the accused used documents such as an MSME Udyam certificate, Uttar Pradesh Labour Department registration, a franchise agreement and Kumars Bar Council credentials. Police said these documents were shown to young employees during recruitment to convince them that the organisation was a legitimate and legally compliant matrimonial service. Investigators alleged that, over time, some of the female employees realised that they were participating in a fraudulent operation. However, the prospect of earning additional money allegedly kept them involved. According to the police, Jaya Shakya and Amit Kumar paid the tele-callers a 10 per cent incentive on every amount they successfully extracted from a victim. This was in addition to their monthly salaries of around Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000. To make the operation appear genuine, the accused created dummy client profiles on the matrimonial website and sent screenshots to victims. These screenshots were intended to convince them that they were receiving genuine matchmaking services. When a victim requested to speak with the woman whose photograph had been shown to him, another female employee from the call centre allegedly posed as the prospective bride during conference calls. The victim was then allowed to speak with the woman for several days, creating the impression that a genuine relationship was developing. After the victim had developed an emotional connection, the alliance was rejected on various false grounds. These included claims of Manglik Dosh, family disapproval or an assertion that the woman had become engaged elsewhere. If a victim insisted on receiving more options, the tele-callers provided details of other families whose profiles were already available on the portal. By using photographs downloaded from the internet, staging conversations with women posing as prospective brides and arranging calls with people pretending to be family members, the syndicate allegedly created a convincing illusion of genuine matchmaking. Each female tele-caller had a monthly target of bringing in at least Rs 15,000 in fraudulent collections. Failure to meet the target could reportedly result in salary deductions, while repeated failure led to termination. The accused also adopted measures to prevent victims from filing police complaints. According to investigators, whenever tele-callers sensed that a suspicious or angry victim was preparing to report the matter, they would refund the money to the victim to quietly settle the issue. Police further alleged that when a victim nevertheless filed a complaint through the NCRP, the complainants action could lead to the freezing of the proprietorship firm's bank account. At that stage, Amit Kumar stepped in and used his legal credentials to handle the situation. The alleged mastermind, Amit Kumar, a resident of Sikandra, Agra, is 29 years old and is a practising advocate. Police have described him as the alleged real owner and mastermind of the fake matrimonial matchmaking call centre. Jaya Shakya, a resident of West Arjun Nagar, Agra, is 44 years old. Police have identified her as the alleged operational manager and on-paper sole proprietor of the fraudulent entity. She supervised day-to-day tele-calling operations and managed the female staff. Other accused identified by the police include Jyoti Kumari, 27, a resident of Mohalla Bichpuri Road, Agra; Karishma Sharma, 24, a resident of Shastri Puram, Agra; Rashmi, 24, a resident of Shahganj, Agra; Anshu Kumari, 32, a resident of Radhe Garden, Agra, and originally from Bhagalpur, Bihar; Meghna Parashar, 23, a resident of Agra; Padma, 26, a resident of Bodla, Agra; and Aashika, 21, a resident of Agra.
Rakul Preet Singh has chosen characters that allow her to step outside the conventional mould, embracing roles that challenge her as an actor and offer something new to audiences. From playing a condom tester in Chhatriwali, playing Ayesha in De De Pyaar De franchise to portraying a medical professional navigating gender biases in Doctor G, the actor has built a diverse body of work across genres. Her latest choice, however, takes her into the world of Indian mythology as she portrays Shurpanakha in Nitesh Tiwaris much-awaited Ramayana. As her recent conversation with Brides Today magazine turned towards her favourite role, Rakul treated the question almost like a trick question. I cant pick one! she attempted to evade. Its been a long journey. Every film is special and teaches you something. Having spent nearly two decades in cinema, Rakul has never limited herself to one particular genre or character type. Her willingness to experiment is once again evident with her decision to take on the role of Shurpanakha, a character whose story is often remembered through a single pivotal incident in the epic. Theres not much we know about her, even though she triggered the incidents that finally led to the war, she shared. There was just so much to explore with this role. For Rakul, the appeal lies in the opportunity to explore a character beyond her familiar perception and discover the layers that make her story compelling. Her choice of Shurpanakha also falls in line with the actors inclination towards characters that challenge expectations and allow her to explore unfamiliar territory. With Ramayana, Rakul once again finds herself taking on a character vastly different from her previous roles, adding yet another unconventional chapter to her journey as an actor. Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh on exploring horror and period films; says, I would like to experiment with different genres
Hockey India Faces Internal Conflict, Key Meeting Called
Hockey India is embroiled in a significant internal dispute between President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary Bhola Nath Singh, primarily stemming from an unauthorised jersey colour change. An emergent Executive Board meeting has been called to address this conflict, discuss the restructuring of the Hockey India League (HIL) into a joint venture with franchises, finalise election dates, and deliberate on hosting Asian Champions Trophy events. The meeting also aims to address a show-cause notice issued to the Director General.
