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Entertainment / India / Main Slide / News

Shraddha Kapoor Celebrates 37th Birthday with Dedicated Fans from Across India

- by Chirag Goyal

Shraddha Kapoor’s recent birthday celebration showcased her enduring bond with her fans, demonstrating why she remains a favorite among them.

On March 3, as Shraddha Kapoor marked another year, she chose to spend her special day with her most loyal fans who had traveled from various parts of India to meet her. The actress organized a unique birthday gathering, inviting her dedicated supporters to join her. According to reports from her fan clubs on social media, Shraddha even went the extra mile, booking flight tickets for the administrators who manage her fan pages.

Numerous fan pages shared images from the event, revealing the heartfelt moments shared between Shraddha and her admirers. Her team meticulously arranged every detail, from flight tickets and lunch to return gifts and accommodation. She ensured that each admin could bring along a family member, particularly if they were female. During the five-hour gathering, Shraddha engaged with her fans, seeking their advice, and engaging in lively chats. She even sought feedback on her roles and gifted each attendee a heart-shaped necklace.


In a heartwarming exchange, the paparazzi, who often capture Shraddha’s moments, surprised her with a chocolate cake and her favorite snacks like Vada Pav and Jalebi. Grateful for their gesture, Shraddha graciously thanked the photographers for their thoughtfulness.

Despite her busy schedule, Shraddha made sure to prioritize her fans and the paparazzi. Despite attending pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar, Gujarat, for Mukesh Ambani’s son Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, she returned to Mumbai early to celebrate her birthday with those who support her unconditionally.

Shraddha Kapoor Celebrates 37th Birthday with Dedicated Fans from Across India Read More
India / Karnataka / Main Slide / Politics

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Cabinet Colleagues Receive Bomb Threat Mail

- by Chirag Goyal

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, along with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, the Home Minister, and the Bengaluru Police Commissioner, were recipients of a bomb threat mail from an individual identifying as Shahid Khan. The sender demanded 2.5 million dollars to avert a purported planned explosion in Bengaluru.

The incident prompted the City Crime Branch of the Bengaluru Police to initiate an investigation, registering a case in response to the alarming threat.

The threatening email, received by the Karnataka government at 2:48 pm on Saturday, outlined intentions to target specific officials, including Siddaramaiah and other prominent figures. It also specified potential locations for the explosion, such as restaurants, temples, buses, and trains.

The sender, using the email address Shahidkhan10786@protonmail.com, conveyed intentions to carry out the explosion unless the demanded sum was provided. The email also ominously hinted at future explosions, with specific mention of targeting an Ambari Utsav bus.

Authorities are taking the threat seriously, recognizing the potential danger posed to public safety. Measures are being undertaken to address the situation and ensure the safety of all citizens.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Cabinet Colleagues Receive Bomb Threat Mail Read More
Entertainment / India / Main Slide

NTR Jr. Joins YRF Spy Universe as Indian Agent in ‘War 2’

- by Chirag Goyal

NTR Jr. is all set to make a grand entrance into the YRF Spy Universe with ‘War 2’, where he’ll portray the role of an Indian agent, adding a fresh twist to the franchise. This highly anticipated installment, also starring Hrithik Roshan, promises an exhilarating cinematic experience.

The news of NTR Jr. joining the cast of ‘War 2’ alongside Hrithik Roshan has sent waves of excitement among fans. Speculations were rife about his character, with some anticipating him as the primary antagonist. However, according to reports from Pinkvilla, NTR Jr. is set to embody the role of an Indian agent, enriching the storyline with his unique perspective.

Following in the footsteps of Salman Khan’s ‘Tiger’, Hrithik Roshan’s ‘Kabir’, and Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Pathaan’, NTR Jr. will be the newest addition to the YRF Spy Universe as an Indian agent. His character is poised to inject a fresh energy into the spy genre, with both Aditya Chopra and Ayan Mukerji eager to explore the dynamic between him and Hrithik Roshan in ‘War 2’. The film is crafted meticulously to keep the audience engaged with its intricate plotlines and multifaceted characters.

Aditya Chopra has ambitious plans for NTR Jr.’s character, extending beyond ‘War 2’. With the vision of creating the first truly pan-Indian cinematic universe, there are talks of spin-offs and cameo appearances in future films. This collaboration marks a significant step in introducing NTR Jr. to the Hindi cinema audience in a compelling manner.

‘War 2′ stands as the sixth installment in the YRF Spy Universe, followed by an untitled film featuring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, directed by Shiv Rawail. The anticipation further escalates with ‘Pathaan 2’, led by Shah Rukh Khan, setting the stage for the highly awaited showdown between Salman Khan and SRK in ‘Tiger vs. Pathaan’. Scheduled for release during the Independence Day 2025 weekend, ‘War 2’, directed by Ayan Mukerji, promises to be a cinematic spectacle worth the wait.

NTR Jr. Joins YRF Spy Universe as Indian Agent in ‘War 2’ Read More
Business / Main Slide

IIFL Shares Freeze 20% Lower After RBI Bans New Gold Loans

- by Chirag Goyal

The share price of IIFL Finance witnessed a sharp decline of 20%, or Rs 119.6, falling to Rs 478.5 per share as of 9:54 a.m. This drop occurred after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a ban on the company from sanctioning or disbursing gold loans, as well as assigning, securitising, or selling any of its gold loans.

Following the RBI’s announcement, IIFL Finance shares were locked in a 20% lower circuit during Tuesday’s trade session on the BSE.

The RBI’s decision stemmed from its inspection of IIFL’s financial position, which revealed significant concerns regarding the company’s gold loan portfolio. These concerns included deviations in assaying and certifying the purity and net weight of gold during loan sanction and auction upon default.

Key concerns highlighted by the RBI’s inspection included breaches in the loan-to-value ratio, excessive cash disbursal and collection beyond statutory limits, non-compliance with standard auction processes, and lack of transparency in customer account charges levied by IIFL.

The ban took immediate effect, although the company is permitted to continue servicing its existing gold loan portfolio through regular collection and recovery procedures.

According to Zee Business Research, IIFL’s gold loan portfolio constitutes 32% of its total portfolio, amounting to Rs 24,700 crore as of December 31. The company collaborates with several banks for gold loans, including DSB Bank, Canara Bank, Union Bank, UCO Bank, South Indian Bank, Karur Vyas Bank, Shivalik Small Finance Bank, and IDBI Bank.

Despite a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30% in gold loans over the past four years, the company’s stance on the ban remains pragmatic. Management clarified during a conference call that while there are no ethical or governance issues with gold loans, the problem lies in procedural and operational matters.

IIFL Finance’s share price performance over the past year has been lackluster, with a modest gain of just over 5% compared to the Nifty50’s rise of over 26%. However, the company has stated that there has been no immediate penalty imposed, and discussions for a special audit with the RBI are underway to address the situation.

IIFL Shares Freeze 20% Lower After RBI Bans New Gold Loans Read More
Delhi / India / Main Slide / Top News

Indian Citizen Killed, Two Injured in Israel by Lebanon’s Anti-Tank Missile

- by Chirag Goyal

NEW DELHI: An Indian national lost his life on Monday when an anti-tank missile struck an orchard near Israel’s northern border in Margaliot. At least two others were injured when the missile, fired from Lebanon, hit the area, officials confirmed.

According to Zaki Heller, spokesperson for rescue services Magen David Adom (MDA), the missile hit a plantation in Margaliot in the Galigee region of northern Israel around 11 am on Monday. “Patnibin Maxwell from Kollam in Kerala was killed in the attack. His remains were identified at Ziv hospital,” official sources stated. Bush Joseph George and Paul Melvin, also from Kerala, sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in different hospitals.

The Israel embassy in India condemned the anti-tank missile firing by Lebanon, terming it a cowardly terror attack. They extended prayers to the families of the deceased and injured. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of one Indian national and the injury of two others due to a cowardly terror attack launched by the Shia Terror organization Hezbollah,” the embassy of Israel in New Delhi stated.

“George was taken to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva after suffering injuries to his face and body. He underwent surgery and has been kept under observation. He was able to communicate with his family in India,” an official source informed PTI.

Melvin, a native of Kerala’s Idukki district, is currently receiving treatment at Ziv Hospital in the northern Israeli city of Safed.

In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, the embassy assured that Israeli medical facilities are fully available to those injured in the incident.

“Our prayers and thoughts naturally go to the families of the bereaved and those of the injured. Israeli medical institutions are completely at the service of the injured, who are being treated by our very best medical staff,” the embassy added.

The embassy emphasized that Israel treats equally all nationals, whether Israeli or foreign, who are affected by terrorism, pledging support to the families and offering assistance.

According to MDA, a total of seven foreign workers were injured in the attack, two of them seriously. They were transported to Beilinson, Rambam, and Ziv hospitals via MDA ambulances and Israeli Air Force helicopters.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) responded to the incident by shelling the launch site with artillery.

Additionally, the IDF targeted a Hezbollah compound in the southern Lebanese town of Chihine, where members of the group were gathered, as well as another site belonging to Hezbollah in Ayta ash-Shab.

Hezbollah has been conducting attacks on Israel’s northern communities and military posts since October 8, claiming to do so in support of Gaza.

These clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and 10 IDF soldiers on the Israeli side.

Hezbollah has reported 229 members killed by Israel during recent flare-ups, with most casualties occurring in Lebanon but also some in Syria.

Since October 8, another 37 operatives from other groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 30 civilians have also been killed.

 

Indian Citizen Killed, Two Injured in Israel by Lebanon’s Anti-Tank Missile Read More
Main Slide / Top News / World

France Declares Abortion a Constitutional Right, Becomes First Country to Do So

- by Chirag Goyal

France made a significant stride in abortion rights by declaring it a constitutional right on Monday (March 4), becoming the first country in the world to do so. Members of the French parliament amended the 1958 constitution, granting women complete freedom to make decisions regarding abortion. The amendment received 780 votes in favor and only 72 against.

According to BBC reports, French President Emmanuel Macron hailed this decision as a message to the entire world. However, anti-abortion groups have strongly criticized this constitutional change. Meanwhile, supporters of abortion rights gathered in Paris to praise the decision.

This amendment marks the 25th modification since 2008 in modern France’s constitution. People gathered at the Eiffel Tower chanting slogans such as “My Body, My Right” to express their support.

“Nobody Else Can Decide for You”
Before the voting on the amendment to establish abortion as a constitutional right, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated in parliament that the right to abortion was in danger and depended on the mercy of decision-makers. He emphasized that they were sending a message to all women that they have the right over their bodies, and no one else can decide on their behalf.

Opponents in parliament accused President Macron of using the constitution for political gains. Critics argue that this constitutional amendment is inherently flawed and unnecessary. They accused President Macron of promoting leftist ideologies through this move.

France’s constitutional changes come at a time when in 2022, the US Supreme Court ended abortion rights. Following the decision of the US Supreme Court, individual states can now impose bans on abortion at their own levels. This decision has resulted in the termination of abortion rights for millions of women.

France Declares Abortion a Constitutional Right, Becomes First Country to Do So Read More
India / Main Slide / Sports / Top News

Indian Men’s and Women’s Table Tennis Teams Secure Historic Qualification for Paris 2024 Olympics

- by Chirag Goyal

CHENNAI: The Indian men’s and women’s table tennis teams have etched their names in history by securing qualification for the team events at the forthcoming Paris Olympics. Despite falling short at the World Championships, it’s their impressive world rankings that have earned them coveted spots in the Olympics for the very first time.

Currently ranked 15th in the world, the men’s team and 13th in the world, the women’s team have punched their tickets to Paris. A total of 16 teams will compete in each event, marking a significant milestone for Indian table tennis.

Sharath Kamal, a seasoned Olympian who has represented India at four Olympics, expressed his elation at the team’s qualification. “It’s a surreal moment for us, making our debut in the team event at the Olympics. Personally, this achievement holds great significance, marking my final appearance. While I’ve competed in the singles event four times, qualifying in the team event has always been a dream. Over the past two years, our focus has been on securing the team’s qualification, and we’ve finally achieved it,” Sharath told TOI.


Despite failing to qualify directly from the World Table Tennis Team Championships, both Indian teams’ advancement to the pre-quarterfinals proved pivotal. “We knew that reaching the Round of 16 in the World Championships would secure our Olympic qualification. Despite a setback against lower-ranked Poland, we bounced back strongly, defeating Kazakhstan in the Round of 32 and advancing to the pre-quarters,” Sharath explained.


The qualification in team events also carries significant weight as it grants India two direct entries in the men’s and women’s singles categories. “Team qualification has paved the way for two direct entries in the singles events, which will be decided by the federation. My primary focus will be on the team event rather than singles,” Sharath emphasized.

The 42-year-old veteran outlined the preparation plan, stating, “The federation, in collaboration with my inputs, has devised a preparation plan, awaiting approval from the Sports Authority of India (SAI). We anticipate the appointment of a dedicated foreign coach and commence training in April.”

Indian Men’s and Women’s Table Tennis Teams Secure Historic Qualification for Paris 2024 Olympics Read More
Ladakh / Main Slide / News

Indian Air Force Conducts Airlift of Patient with Critical Head Injuries in Ladakh Zanskar Region

- by Chirag Goyal

In a daring rescue operation, an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft successfully evacuated a patient with critical head injuries from Atting village in the Zanskar region of south Ladakh. The rescue mission became imperative as continuous snowfall had severed all ground access to the remote area.

The IAF, in a statement, disclosed that the patient was airlifted to Leh on Monday, highlighting the vital role of air support in emergency medical evacuations in such challenging terrain.

The IAF also shared images of the Cheetah helicopter involved in the airlift operation, underscoring the organization’s commitment to serving the nation even in the most adverse conditions.

The successful evacuation underscores the IAF’s dedication to its motto, “Har Kaam Desh Ke Naam” (Every Task in the Name of the Nation), as it continues to provide crucial assistance in remote and inaccessible regions across the country.

Indian Air Force Conducts Airlift of Patient with Critical Head Injuries in Ladakh Zanskar Region Read More
Business / India / Main Slide

Tata Motors Demerger: Commercial and Passenger Vehicle Businesses to Form Separate Listed Entities

- by Chirag Goyal

Tata Motors Ltd (TML) announced on March 4 its decision to demerge its businesses into two distinct listed entities: one for commercial vehicles (CV) and the other for passenger vehicles (PV), including electric vehicles (EVs), Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), and related investments.

“The demerger is a natural progression following the earlier subsidiarization of PV and EV businesses in 2022. It will empower each business to pursue its strategies independently, fostering higher growth with increased agility while enhancing accountability,” stated the automaker.

In recent years, Tata Motors’ CV, PV+EV, and JLR divisions have implemented separate growth strategies. Since 2021, these businesses have operated autonomously under their respective CEOs.

On Monday, Tata Motors’ stock on the BSE closed flat at Rs 989.

The demerger will be executed through an NCLT scheme of arrangement, ensuring that all TML shareholders maintain identical shareholding in both listed entities. Tata Motors noted in a stock exchange filing that obtaining necessary shareholder, creditor, and regulatory approvals may take an additional 12-15 months to finalize the demerger.

 

Tata Motors Demerger: Commercial and Passenger Vehicle Businesses to Form Separate Listed Entities Read More
Delhi / India / Main Slide / News

Roof Collapse at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, Delhi; No Casualties Reported, Video Emerges

- by Chirag Goyal

A section of the roof at Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj, Delhi, collapsed during routine maintenance work, stirring concern but thankfully causing no injuries.

A video circulating online captures the unsettling moment as debris cascades onto escalators and railings within Delhi’s Ambience Mall. (Image Source: X/@ShantanuGuhaRay)


In a concerning turn of events, a substantial portion of the concrete roof collapsed in the central hall of Ambience Mall, situated in southwest Delhi’s Vasant Kunj, in the early hours of Monday. According to reports from news agency PTI, the incident occurred past midnight, yet no injuries were reported.

Authorities stated that the roof gave way partially around 12:45 am, scattering debris throughout the central section of the mall. While fortunate that no casualties occurred, an investigation into the cause of the collapse has been initiated, as confirmed by the police.

A circulating video offers a glimpse of the unsettling scene, capturing the falling debris as it descends onto escalators and railings within the mall.

The incident adds to a string of structural concerns in malls across the National Capital Region (NCR). With the Ambience Mall’s temporary closure for maintenance and safety checks, authorities aim to mitigate any potential risks before resuming operations.

Authorities have closed the mall temporarily as a precautionary measure, ensuring the completion of necessary maintenance work before reopening to the public.

Roof Collapse at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, Delhi; No Casualties Reported, Video Emerges Read More