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Elections 2026Entertainment / The Times of India
Belgian powerlifting champion Sonita Muluh says she feels unsafe competing after a spotter allegedly admitted on social media to deliberately interfering with her record squat attempt and described himself as acist. The incident has sparked a criminal investigation in Lithuania, while the official received a lifetime ban and the International Powerlifting Federation pledged stronger athlete safeguards.
Auqib Nabi earned a place in India's Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. He replaces the injured fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah in the team. Nabi's selection follows his strong performances in domestic cricket competitions. He took 104 wickets across two exceptional Ranji Trophy seasons. Nabi becomes the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to reach this milestone.
Among the models already launched are Sarvam AIs 30-billion and 105-billion parameter models and Indus, Gnani.AIs speech-to-speech model, BharatGens multilingual models and Avataar AIs video-generation model. The IndiaAI Mission, approved in March 2024 with an outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore over five years, is aimed at creating domestic capabilities in computing, foundation models, applications, research and responsible AI.
Meta's international team is in ongoing talks with Indian government representatives today, aiming to align with local laws and tackle content moderation challenges. Officials are requesting insights into algorithms and preventive measures against harmful content. They are also discussing WhatsApp policies and strategies to combat CSAM. A meeting between IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Meta's global team is expected later today.
In Mongolia, herders engage in Khslkh, a heartfelt tradition that involves singing to mother camels. This ritual is crucial for ensuring that newborn calves are welcomed and nurtured by their mothers. Accompanied by the soothing sounds of the morin khuur, a horsehead fiddle, herders believe the melodies forge a deep emotional bond that enhances maternal acceptance. Recognized by UNESCO, this practice embodies a blend of compassion and musical artistry.
India's maritime workers are confronting unprecedented challenges as wartime conflicts reconfigure shipping routes into perilous zones. The recent loss of life among Indian sailors in attacks on commercial vessels has raised alarm. With many enduring extended time away from home and facing harsh conditions at sea, their families live in constant worry about their safety. The call for better protection and governmental assistance for these seafarers is intensifying.
In a recent revelation, Ranbir Kapoor shared intriguing behind-the-scenes insights regarding Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious 'Ramayana' project. He described donning rubber slippers during scenes where his character appears barefoot, a detail skillfully rectified through visual effects in post-production. Initially, he was the top choice to portray Lord Ram, with the first installment of this epic saga set for release during Diwali 2026.
A new study by Northwestern University has found that neighbourhoods in Chicago that lost more tree canopy over 11 years also recorded higher mortality rates, particularly in hotter areas. The researchers say protecting mature trees, along with planting new ones, could help reduce heat-related health risks and improve public health in cities.
Kurthal village in Rajasthan erupted in celebration with the introduction of a government bus, marking a major advancement in public transport for this secluded area. This service promises to ease the commute for elderly individuals and students, spotlighting the urban-rural disparity in India's development. The bus is a gateway to better access to education, healthcare, and job prospects, heralding a new chapter for the village.
In Colombia, the hippos originally imported by Pablo Escobar have become an ecological menace. Initially introduced for his private zoo, their population has surged to over eighty, wreaking havoc on local waterways. Their excrement disrupts the delicate balance of river ecology, depleting oxygen levels and triggering harmful algal blooms. Addressing this invasive species poses significant environmental hurdles that require urgent attention.
The Dhurandhar film series has seen remarkable success, raking in over Rs 3,000 crore. Actor R. Madhavan praised director Aditya Dhar for his commitment to elaborate storytelling and meticulous details. To enhance these aspects, Dhar reportedly poured in an extra Rs 10 crore. This success signifies that audiences are far more insightful than filmmakers often recognize, valuing narrative complexity and fostering trust in vision.
In the film 'Nagabandham', Rishabh Sawhney's commendable portrayal in a dual role has garnered significant praise. He undertook extensive training over several months, collaborating with top-notch international action directors specializing in close combat and sword fighting. This meticulous preparation ensured a safe shooting process, with his unwavering commitment evident in the impactful action sequences presented in the film.
Get ready for Ludwig Season 2, launching on August 20, 2026, packed with six captivating episodes! David Mitchell is back, brilliantly portraying the puzzle-maker seeking clues not just for thrilling cases but also for his lost sibling. Joining him in this adventure is his determined sister-in-law, eager to find her husband. Expect a delightful fusion of comedy and drama, exclusively on BBC iPlayer.
Abaan Ahmed, son of Atiq Ahmed, died in a fatal SUV crash in Jhansi. The vehicle hit a road divider, killing Abaan and his friend Sonu. Eyewitnesses and survivors provided conflicting accounts of the moments before the accident. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred on a wet road. Three other occupants of the vehicle sustained injuries and are receiving treatment.
American shooter Jeff Browning credited nearly two years of training at New Delhi's Topgun Shooting Academy for helping him win the 10m air rifle title at the US National Championship. Browning secured the prestigious Leatherneck Trophy weeks after returning home, praising the academy's coaching and support for helping him maintain world-class standards and achieve national success.
Preity Zinta says playing Hameeda in 'Batwara 1947' was deeply personal, as motherhood helped her understand the character's family-first worldview amid Partition's chaos. She found the story hopeful despite its darkness. Director Rajkumar Santoshi added the film explores how men's egos endanger families, while wives become their strength.
White shoes often develop yellow stains which simple household items can remove. Baking soda paste and white vinegar effectively tackle stubborn discoloration on footwear. Plain white toothpaste can restore rubber midsoles, while magic erasers handle scuff marks. Avoid chlorine bleach and prolonged direct sunlight to prevent further yellowing. Store shoes completely dry after cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni fostered a comfortable team atmosphere with his open hotel room policy. Younger players often gathered there for relaxation and games away from cricket pressure. Ajinkya Rahane shared insights into this inclusive team culture during a recent interview. Rahane recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after a distinguished career. Dhoni's own playing future remains uncertain following an injury and missed IPL season.
Here are five signs that the universe may be gently nudging you toward a fresh beginning.
Amidst deadly heat waves, Japan faces a growing crisis marked by significant hospitalizations and loss of life. These soaring temperatures are thwarting recovery initiatives in earthquake-impacted areas. In a heartbreaking occurrence, three lions at a Tokyo zoo succumbed to the heat. In response, officials have issued a heatstroke warning for vast regions of western and southern Japan, introducing the term 'kokushobi' to highlight these dangerously hot days.
Director Lokesh Kanagaraj is making waves as he steps into acting for the first time in the action-packed film 'DC.' He reportedly secured a hefty five crore rupees for his prominent role, while fellow director Arun Matheswaran raked in seven crore rupees for his contributions. With Sun Pictures backing this thrilling venture, audiences can expect its release on August 7.
The Bombay High Court intervened to prevent a statewide doctors' strike. The Indian Medical Association withdrew its strike after court intervention. The court directed the state to implement its government resolution promptly. Doctors are prohibited from striking work according to the court's ruling. The court will decide on the legality of doctors' strikes later.
Abaan Ahmed, the youngest of Atiq Ahmed's children, tragically passed away in a road accident in Jhansi. His SUV hit a divider, resulting in his immediate death and that of a friend. Three other friends sustained injuries and are under medical care. Investigators are looking into differing accounts surrounding the crash. The burial of Abaan Ahmed is planned for Friday in Prayagraj.
Rakul Preet Singh stepped out in a monochrome white crop jacket and skirt set from Neon The Label, priced at just Rs. 6,000, styled with statement gold toned jewellery. The actress, who plays Surpanakha in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana', kept her glam minimal with soft waves and nude pink lips.
Abaan Ahmed, son of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed, died in a car crash. The SUV reportedly lost control and collided with a road divider on Thursday. Three other occupants sustained injuries and were transported for medical attention. This incident follows a series of violent events involving members of Atiq Ahmed's family. Abaan's brother Asad was killed in an encounter near Jhansi last year.
Insidious: Out Of The Further - Official Telugu Trailer

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