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<p>Abhishek Sharma's record-breaking show powered India to a series-sealing win over New Zealand in the third T20I at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Tuesday.</p><p>Abhishek was on an absolute carnage as he slammed his fourth T20I century, ending at 113 from 38 balls to help India gun down the 199-run target in just 13.2 overs with six wickets in hand. The victory helped India take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.</p><p>Apart from his fourth T20I century, this was Abhishek's 11th T20 ton, which is now the most by an Indian player in the shortest format. He went past Indian veteran Virat Kohli, who slammed 10 centuries in T20s.</p><p>This has put Abhishek in third place among the players with most T20 tons, only behind Chris Gayle (22) and Babar Azam (13).</p><p>While Abhishek slammed another jaw-dropping knock, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, promoted to the opening role for this game, also impressed with 45 from 19 deliveries as record books tumbled and New Zealand bowlers faced the brunt of the Indian batters.</p><p>India smashed the highest-ever team total in a men's T20I powerplay, hitting 118/0 in the first six overs. This has now become the highest-ever score for a team in a powerplay, going past the previous highest of Romania, who had made 116/0 against Serbia in a T20I in 2021.</p><p>The two batters made a mockery of the depleted New Zealand bowling attack as they went hammer and tongs behind the target. India also breached the 100-run mark in just five overs, which is the second-fastest by any team in the world, behind Eswatini, who had completed their team hundred in 4.5 overs against Mozambique earlier this year.</p><p>The Men in Blue also brought up their fifty off just 2.2 overs, which is now the joint-fastest by any team in the world. Papua New Guinea made a team fifty in 2.2 overs against Vanuatu; while Romania had also completed their 50 in 2.2 overs against Serbia.</p><p>It was a very tough outing for the New Zealand bowlers, who were already missing Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson due to fitness issues. Returning Kyle Jamieson and Matthew Fisher, and captain Mitchell Santner managed to take wickets, with Jamieson scalping two and other taking one each. Jamieson got the prized wicket of Abhishek for 113 in the 10th over, while Fisher accounted for Sooryavanshi (45) in the eighth over.</p><p>Jamieson struck once more later when he got Sanju Samson for 18, and Santner dismissed Shreyas Iyer for five in the 13th over when the Indian skipper holed one out on deep mid-wicket. But the damage was already done, as Tilak Varma (1) and Naman Dhir (4) took India home in the 14th over to win by six wickets.</p><p>Earlier, Daryl Mitchell's career-best T20 score of 89* from 52 balls took the hosts to 198/3 in the first innings. The Kiwis were cruising well till the halfway stage of the first innings, as they were 100/2 after 10 overs, but the hosts seemingly ran out of steam as India also displayed good defensive bowling at the back end of the innings to not let them go past 200.</p><p>Mitchell's innings was the highlight as he carried the New Zealand innings through and batted for the majority of the innings. He remained unbeaten on 89 from 52 balls as his scoring dropped a bit in the final few overs, while Bevon Jacobs made 39 from 23, but the final punch lacked from the Kiwis.</p><p>The Kiwis were at 123/3 after 12 overs as they looked for a final flourish, but the Indian bowlers adapted well to the conditions and bowled fuller and yorkers, as the straight boundaries here are long and the square ones are shorter.</p><p>Only 63 runs came from the final seven overs as India bowled good defensive lines. Four different bowlers were used for the death overs, and the visitors did well to keep a lid on the hosts.</p><p>India have now taken an unassailable lead of 3-0 in the five-match series, clinching yet another T20I series against the Kiwis.</p><p><strong>Brief Scores: </strong>New Zealand 198/3 (Daryl Mitchell 89*, Finn Allen 40; Arshdeep Singh 1-33, Axar Patel 1-36) lost to India (Abhishek Sharma 113, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 45; Kyle Jamieson 2-45, Mitchell Santner 1-17) by six wickets.</p>

Abhishek Sharma smashed a 35-ball century as India chased down New Zealand’s 199-run target in just 13.2 overs to win the third T20I by six wickets. The victory gave India an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I: Abhishek Sharma smashes 35-ball century as India shatter multiple records to seal series

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I: Abhishek's 35-ball ton powers India to 6-wicket win

<p><span><strong>New Delhi:</strong> The United States has announced a 10-year deal to produce at least 850 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets for its military. The plan targets annual production of 156 aircraft for US and international customers. The agreement offers an example of how long-term procurement planning can support aircraft manufacturing, although it is subject to congressional approval and funding.</span></p><p><span>Announced by the US Department of War and Lockheed Martin on October 22, 2026, the deal includes production Lots 21 to 30. It also includes initial spare parts, modification kits and sustainment support. The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin will have to finalise contract terms, pricing and schedules if the Congress grants the required authority and funding. </span></p><p><span>Lockheed Martin Chief Executive Jim Taiclet said in a statement that the agreement would give the company more confidence to invest in manufacturing capacity and its supply chain.</span></p><p><span>“With the greater certainty that comes from the U.S. government's transformative approach to F-35 production and sustainment, we can make the upfront investments needed to expand capacity, improve efficiency and build a more resilient supply chain,” he said.</span></p><p><span>India is also developing its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a planned fifth-generation stealth fighter for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The aircraft has not made its maiden flight, and its development and production will require a partnership between the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and an Indian industry player.</span></p><h2><span><strong>Why long-term orders are important</strong></span></h2><p><span>The US agreement sets out a production schedule over a decade rather than depending on a series of separate annual decisions. Such commitments can help manufacturers plan investments in machinery, facilities, workers and component supplies. They can also allow companies to negotiate bulk purchases and spread fixed costs across a larger number of aircraft.</span></p><p><span>However, the US deal is not so far a final contract. Its production targets and expected savings depend on congressional authorisation, appropriations and the completion of formal contract negotiations.</span></p><p><span>India's fighter manufacturing plans have a different set of requirements. The government must first establish that AMCA meets the IAF's operational needs. It must also select an industry partner and determine how design, testing and production responsibilities will be divided.</span></p><p><span>The Ministry of Defence (MoD) approved an industry-partnership model for the aircraft in May 2025. Under the model, eligible Indian companies can bid independently or as joint ventures or consortia. The stated objective is to use expertise from both the public and private sectors to develop the aircraft's prototypes.</span></p><p><span>Former Defence Secretary G Mohan Kumar has explained the challenges a private company could face in manufacturing a fighter aircraft.Speaking to The Economic Times about the AMCA programme, he said India would need to build an entire network of suppliers and manufacturers capable of producing the aircraft’s components.</span></p><p><span>Building a fighter aircraft requires more than putting its parts together. Manufacturers need skilled workers, reliable suppliers, testing facilities and the capacity to produce parts in the required quantities and to the required standards. Companies also need an idea of how many aircraft they may be asked to build before investing in new factories and equipment.</span></p><h2><span><strong>India's fighter production challenge</strong></span></h2><p><span>India's existing fighter programmes show the challenges facing domestic aircraft production. The IAF has sought faster deliveries as it deals with a shortage of fighter squadrons.</span></p><p><span>In March 2025, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh called for greater private-sector participation in military aircraft manufacturing. He said that India needed to produce 35 to 40 fighters annually to address capability shortfalls and replace ageing aircraft, according to Reuters.</span></p><p><span>The Tejas programme also shows why production capacity and supply-chain performance are as important as aircraft development. Deliveries depend on the availability of engines and other components, as well as the manufacturer's ability to meet production schedules.</span></p><p><span>Orders placed in separate batches can give the government room to adjust spending and operational requirements. However, uncertainty about later orders can make it difficult for suppliers to decide how much additional capacity to build.</span></p><h2><span><strong>The budget challenge for AMCA</strong></span></h2><p><span>India's defence spending must accommodate several competing procurement requirements, say experts. The Union Budget for 2026-27 allocated approximately Rs 2.19 lakh crore for the capital outlay of the defence services. This allocation supports purchases across the armed forces, including aircraft, submarines, tanks, air defence systems and military infrastructure.</span></p><p><span>They said a multi-year AMCA procurement plan would have to account for these requirements and the aircraft's development schedule. The government and the IAF, according to them, would need to determine the number of aircraft required, the pace of deliveries and the funding available for successive production batches.</span></p><p><span>The US F-35 agreement provides an example of a long-term production plan, but the two programmes are at different stages. The F-35 is an established aircraft in production, while AMCA is still in development.</span></p><h2><span><strong>What F-35 deal means for AMCA</strong></span></h2><p><span>The F-35 deal does not mean India should order hundreds of AMCA aircraft before the design and testing process is complete. It shows how a long-term procurement plan can give manufacturers a basis for planning production and investing in their supply chains.</span></p><p><span>Once AMCA completes the required trials, the experts said, India will have to decide the scale of its fleet and the production capacity needed to deliver it. A multi-year procurement schedule could help companies assess investments in facilities, skilled workers and domestic component manufacturing.</span></p><p><span>The plan would also need to accommodate changes in costs, production rates and technical requirements as the aircraft enters service. Future orders would have to match the IAF's operational requirements and the government's available funding.</span></p><p><span>AMCA's development and production timeline will depend on technical progress and decisions by the government and the IAF. The selection of an industry partner and the division of responsibilities between ADA and the chosen company will determine the next phase of the programme.</span></p>

The US agreement sets out a 10-year production plan for the F-35, while India is developing its fifth-generation AMCA fighter and preparing to bring an industry partner into the programme.

850 F-35 jets in 10 years: What US deal reveals about India’s AMCA plans

<p data-path-to-node="2"><span>The Bombay High Court on Monday deferred the hearing on actor Imran Khan’s writ petition challenging the Foreigners Regional Registration Office’s (FRRO) ‘Leave India’ notice to November 2 at 3:00 PM, after the Centre requested additional time to file its response.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="3"><span>The division bench comprised Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna. Crucially, the court directed that the FRRO order be kept in abeyance in the interim, ensuring that no coercive action or deportation steps will be initiated against the actor before the next hearing. The ruling provides immediate relief to Khan, whose exit deadline was originally set for Tuesday, October 28.</span></p><h3 data-path-to-node="5"><strong>Oral assurance in court: 'Nothing will happen'</strong></h3><p data-path-to-node="6"><span>During the proceedings, senior advocate Venkatesh Dhond, representing Imran Khan, highlighted the urgency of the petition, noting,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="6" data-index-in-node="131">"But I have to leave tomorrow."</i></em></p><p data-path-to-node="7"><span>Responding to the court on behalf of the government, the law officer assured the bench that the matter could be safely listed for the following Monday, stating,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="7" data-index-in-node="161">"Nothing will happen. That is an oral assurance."</i></em><span> Taking note of the Centre's commitment, the bench ordered the notice to remain suspended until the matter is heard next week.</span></p><h3 data-path-to-node="9"><strong>Origin of the dispute: Detained during Mumbai protest</strong></h3><p data-path-to-node="10"><span>The legal battle stems from an incident on October 10, when Mumbai Police detained Imran Khan near August Kranti Maidan during a public protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Khan’s partner, Lekha Washington, and cousin, Zayn Marie Khan, were also detained during the demonstration.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="11"><span>Four days later, on October 14, the FRRO issued a Leave India Notice (LIN) directing the actor—who holds US citizenship alongside an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card—to leave the country by October 28 under Sections 7(2)(C) and 29 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.</span></p><h3 data-path-to-node="13"><strong>Imran Khan challenges notice as arbitrary violation of rights</strong></h3><p data-path-to-node="14"><span>In response to the FRRO directive, Khan filed a writ petition titled </span><em><i data-path-to-node="14" data-index-in-node="69">Imran Khan Pal v. Union of India &amp; Ors</i><span>,</span></em><span> through</span><span> his legal team comprising Zulfiquar Memon, Parvez Memon, and Kunal Vajani.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="15"><span>The petition argues that the exit notice is arbitrary, unconstitutional, and a direct violation of his fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. Furthermore, Khan’s counsel questioned the procedure followed by the authorities, pointing out that the actor was denied a prior hearing or a fair opportunity to respond via a standard show-cause notice before the order was issued.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="16"><span>Known for his breakout debut in </span><em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="32">Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na</i></em><span> and hit films such as </span><em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="78">Delhi Belly</i></em><span>,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="91">Break Ke Baad</i></em><span>,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="106">Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu</i></em><span>, and </span><em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="130">Mere Brother Ki Dulhan</i></em><span>, the actor will now await the High Court's detailed review of the matter on November 2.</span></p>

The Bombay High Court has put the FRROs Leave India Notice against actor Imran Khan on hold until November 2 after the Centre gave assurances that no coercive steps would be taken ahead of his scheduled October 28 exit deadline.

Imran Khan gets Bombay HC relief as eviction order is paused till Monday

Breaking: Imran Khan gets Bombay HC relief as eviction order is paused till Monday

<p data-path-to-node="2"><span>Brijendra Pal Singh, affectionately known as B.P. Singh and the visionary creator behind Indian television’s landmark crime procedural </span><em><i data-path-to-node="2" data-index-in-node="143">CID</i></em><span>, passed away on Tuesday morning (October 27) following a massive heart attack.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="3"><span>Filmmaker and close associate Ashoke Pandit shared the news of his demise on social media, paying rich tribute to the veteran producer-director whose work defined Indian television entertainment for over two decades. Singh's last rites will be performed on Wednesday, October 28, with further details to be announced by his family.</span></p><h3 data-path-to-node="5"><strong>Industry mourns loss of TV pioneer</strong></h3><p data-path-to-node="6"><span>Confirming the news on Instagram, Ashoke Pandit expressed deep grief over the passing of his long-time colleague and former Indian Film &amp; Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) President.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="7"><span>"Sad to know about the demise of an ace Producer Director B.P.Singh ji due to massive heart attack today early morning. A brilliant filmmaker who captivated the nation with his crime shows C.I.D and AAhat. His work is still and will continue to be an inspiration to generations to come," wrote Pandit.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="8"><span>He added: "Was fortunate to be a very close associate of him when he was the President of Indian Film &amp; Television Directors' Association. A great human being and a dear friend Will always be remembered with his contribution in the entertainment world. Heartfelt condolences to the family &amp; near ones. The last rites will be performed tomorrow, October 28. Details will be shared soon."</span></p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background-color:#FFF;border-radius:3px;border-width:0;box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);margin:1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/De_VKiHxGBh/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div><div><div> </div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div> </div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De_VKiHxGBh/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div><div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De_VKiHxGBh/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div></div><div> </div><div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De_VKiHxGBh/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Ashoke Pandit (@ashokepandit1)</a></p></div></blockquote><h3 data-path-to-node="10"><strong>Brain behind 'CID' and DCP Shamsher Singh Chitrole</strong></h3><p data-path-to-node="11"><span>Born in Dehradun, B.P. Singh crafted one of Indian television's most enduring legacies when he created, directed, and produced </span><em><i data-path-to-node="11" data-index-in-node="127">CID</i></em><span>. Premiering in 1998 on Sony Entertainment Television, the investigative crime drama followed a fictional team of Mumbai Crime Branch officers solving complex cases and went on to run for 20 continuous years, becoming a pop-culture phenomenon across generations.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="12"><span>Beyond his role as the showrunner and director, Singh occasionally stepped in front of the camera to play the memorable and eccentric character of DCP Shamsher Singh Chitrole. Under his guidance, the show’s immense popularity also birthed the </span><em><i data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="243">CID Gallantry Awards</i></em><span> in 2010 to honour real-life acts of bravery.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="15"><span>Singh’s creative footprint extended far beyond crime procedurals. He brought horror to mainstream Indian television with </span><em><i data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="121">Aahat</i></em><span>, a hugely successful anthology series that aired from 1995 to 2015 and set the benchmark for TV horror in India.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="16"><span>Over his long and distinguished career, Singh produced and helmed several notable television shows and digital projects, including </span><em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="131">Khaaki</i></em><span>,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="139">SuperCops Vs SuperVillains</i></em><span>, and the web series </span><em><i data-path-to-node="16" data-index-in-node="186">Abhay</i></em><span>, leaving behind an indelible mark on small-screen storytelling.</span></p>

Legendary television producer-director B.P. Singh, best known for creating Indian TV’s longest-running crime drama CID and horror series Aahat, passed away on Tuesday morning after suffering a massive heart attack.

'CID' Creator B.P. Singh passes away at 86 following massive heart attack

'CID' Creator B.P. Singh passes away at 86 following massive heart attack; Last rites on October 28

<p>Former South Africa all-rounder Albie Morkel has returned to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after 13 years, joining the franchise as an assistant coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. Morkel will work under newly appointed head coach Zaheer Khan as the five-time champions reshape their coaching staff.</p><p>Morkel represented CSK from the inaugural IPL season in 2008 until 2013 and was part of the team’s title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011. His return marks a new chapter in his association with the franchise, where he enjoyed some of the most successful years of his playing career.</p><p>Announcing his appointment, CSK welcomed Morkel with a message on social media, highlighting his contribution to the team’s memorable moments and back-to-back IPL triumphs.</p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The lion behind some of Chepauk's most unforgettable moments is ready for a new innings! 💛 An OG Super King from 2008, a key member of our back-to-back IPL triumphs in 2010 and 2011! Albie Morkel's story with the Super Kings continues! Welcome aboard, Albie! 🦁 #WhistlePodu #Yellove</p><p>— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://x.com/ChennaiIPL/status/2114989230606737568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2026</a></p></blockquote><script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><p>"The lion behind some of Chepauk's most unforgettable moments is ready for a new innings! An OG Super King from 2008, a key member of our back-to-back IPL triumphs in 2010 and 2011! Albie Morkel's story with the Super Kings continues! Welcome aboard, Albie!" the franchise wrote on X.</p><h2><strong>Albie Morkel's coaching journey</strong></h2><p>After leaving CSK in 2013, Morkel went on to represent Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL. He later moved into coaching and has been associated with Johannesburg Super Kings as their head coach.</p><p>The upcoming IPL assignment will mark his first coaching stint with an IPL franchise. His experience as a former CSK player could prove valuable as the team prepares for the 2027 season under Zaheer’s leadership.</p><h2><strong>CSK add Gareth Batty and Mohit Sharma to coaching staff</strong></h2><p>CSK have also announced changes to their coaching setup, with former England cricketer Gareth Batty joining as an assistant coach and former India pacer Mohit Shfvarma taking up the bowling coach role.</p><p>Mohit began his IPL career with CSK in 2013 and went on to represent India in international cricket. He also won the IPL Purple Cap in 2014 while playing for Chennai, taking 23 wickets that season.</p><p>Welcoming Mohit back, CSK recalled his early years with the franchise and his reputation for effective slower deliveries and variations.</p><p>"Once a Super King. Now ready to shape the next generation! From his IPL debut in Yellow in 2013 to winning the Purple Cap in 2014, Mohit Sharma has given us plenty of reasons to whistle with his masterful slower deliveries and variations! Welcome home, Mohit!" CSK wrote on X.</p>

Albie Morkel has returned to Chennai Super Kings after 13 years as assistant coach ahead of IPL 2027, joining the coaching setup led by Zaheer Khan. CSK have also appointed Gareth Batty as assistant coach and Mohit Sharma as bowling coach as the franchise prepares for the upcoming season.

IPL 2027: Albie Morkel returns to CSK after 13 years as assistant coach under Zaheer Khan

IPL 2027: Albie Morkel returns to CSK after 13 years as assistant coach

<p>Delhi captain Ayush Badoni continued his impressive run in the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season, scoring his second consecutive century against Jharkhand in the third-round match at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi.</p><p>Fresh from a career-best 217 against Gujarat in the previous round, Badoni remained unbeaten on 106 off 122 balls on the opening day against Jharkhand on Monday, October 26. His innings featured 11 fours and two sixes, helping Delhi recover after losing five wickets for 181 runs.</p><p><a href="https://english.zeenews.com/sports/article-pakistan-name-muneeba-ali-captain-for-womens-emerging-nations-trophy-2026-fatima-sana-to-miss-tournament-3160704">ALSO READ: <strong>Pakistan name Muneeba Ali captain for women’s Emerging nations Trophy 2026, Fatima Sana to miss tournament</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Ayush Badoni continues impressive Ranji Trophy run</strong></h2><p>Badoni found support from Sumit Mathur, who was unbeaten on 50 at stumps. The pair added an unbroken 128-run partnership for the sixth wicket to take Delhi to 309/5 at the end of Day 1.</p><p>The Delhi skipper had produced a commanding performance against Gujarat in the previous round, scoring 217 at the Air Force Ground in Palam. His latest century further underlined his strong start to the domestic season.</p><p>Badoni has also made an impact with the ball this season. In Delhi's opening match against Bengal, he claimed five wickets for 43 runs before scoring 85 in the second innings. Delhi, however, lost that match by nine wickets.</p><h2><strong>Badoni's first-class record</strong></h2><p>The 26-year-Old has previously registered major scores in first-class cricket, including an unbeaten 205 against Jharkhand in November 2024 and an unbeaten 204 for North Zone in the Duleep Trophy in 2025. His 217 against Gujarat was another significant milestone in his career.</p><p>With his second successive century, Badoni has continued to strengthen his case for greater recognition in red-ball cricket. Delhi will look to build on his contribution as their Ranji Trophy campaign progresses.</p>

Delhi captain Ayush Badoni continued his impressive run in the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 after scoring a century against Jharkhand, following his career-best 217 against Gujarat. His consistent performances have strengthened Delhi’s batting as they look to make a strong comeback in the tournament.

Ayush Badoni creates history in Ranji Trophy 2026-27, joins Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in elite list

Ayush Badoni creates history in Ranji Trophy 2026-27, joins Kohli & Gambhir

<p><strong>Karwa Chauth 2026:</strong> Karwa Chauth is only two days away, so if you are fasting this year, it is worth checking your city’s moonrise time now. The festival falls on Thursday, October 29, and married women will go without food and water through the day until the Moon shows up in the evening. After that comes Chandra Puja and the breaking of the fast. The timing is not the same everywhere, so your local Panchang is a better guide than any single national schedule. In New Delhi, the Moon is expected to rise at around 8:17 PM. In Mumbai, you will be waiting until around 9:00 PM.</p><p>Here is a city-wise guide to moonrise, puja muhurat, fasting hours and what to do once the Moon is out.</p><h2>Karwa Chauth 2026: Date and moonrise time</h2><p>Karwa Chauth is on Thursday, October 29, 2026, and it falls on the Chaturthi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. The fast runs from sunrise until the Moon is sighted in the evening.</p><p>For New Delhi, the fast begins at 6:31 AM and the Moon is expected to rise at 8:17 PM. The evening puja muhurat is from 5:38 PM to 6:56 PM. Since moonrise depends on where you are, check the local Panchang if you live outside the capital.</p><p><a href="https://english.zeenews.com/lifestyle/article-karva-chauth-2026-vastu-tips-puja-direction-diya-placement-and-moon-sighting-rules-3160297"><strong>ALSO READ | Karva Chauth Vastu tips: Expert guide on puja direction, diya placement, and moon sighting rules for maximum positivity</strong></a></p><h2>Moonrise time in major cities (October 29, 2026)</h2><p>All timings are in Indian Standard Time (IST). Check the city-wise timings here:</p><table class="table"><thead><tr><th scope="col">City</th><th scope="col">Expected Moonrise Time</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>New Delhi</td><td>8:17 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Noida</td><td>Around 8:16 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Gurugram</td><td>Around 8:18 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Chandigarh</td><td>Around 8:12 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Jaipur</td><td>Around 8:28 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Lucknow</td><td>Around 8:06 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Kolkata</td><td>Around 7:47 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Patna</td><td>Around 7:52 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Bhopal</td><td>Around 8:31 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Indore</td><td>Around 8:39 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Ahmedabad</td><td>Around 8:52 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Mumbai</td><td>9:00 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Pune</td><td>Around 8:58 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Hyderabad</td><td>Around 8:41 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Bengaluru</td><td>Around 8:55 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Chennai</td><td>Around 8:44 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Nagpur</td><td>Around 8:29 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Raipur</td><td>Around 8:18 PM</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>Puja muhurat and fasting timings</h2><table class="table"><thead><tr><th scope="col">Event</th><th scope="col">Date and Time</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Karwa Chauth</td><td>Thursday, October 29, 2026</td></tr><tr><td>Chaturthi Tithi Begins</td><td>1:06 AM, October 29</td></tr><tr><td>Chaturthi Tithi Ends</td><td>10:09 PM, October 29</td></tr><tr><td>Puja Muhurat</td><td>5:38 PM to 6:56 PM</td></tr><tr><td>Fasting Begins</td><td>6:31 AM</td></tr><tr><td>Expected Moonrise</td><td>8:17 PM</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The puja is usually done before moonrise. After that come the prayers to the Moon and the rituals that close the fast.</p><h2>Why does Moonrise time change from city to city?</h2><p>The Moon does not appear at the same moment across the country. When it rises depends on your longitude and latitude, which is why eastern cities like Kolkata see it earlier than western ones like Mumbai. Southern cities have their own timings too.</p><p>The weather matters as well. Clouds, haze, tall buildings or a blocked horizon can delay when you actually see the Moon, even after it has technically risen.</p><h2>What happens after Moonrise?</h2><p>Karwa Chauth is observed for the health, well-being and long life of one’s husband. Customs vary from family to family and region to region, but the Moon-sighting in the evening is the heart of the day. The usual steps are:</p><p>1. Prepare the puja thali: Arrange a diya, a karwa filled with water, flowers, sweets, kumkum and a sieve.</p><p>2. Do the evening puja: Worship Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and other deities, as your family does.</p><p>3. Wait for the Moon: The fast continues until the Moon is visible.</p><p>4. Offer arghya: Offer water to the Moon as part of Chandra Puja.</p><p>5. Break the fast: After the Moon-sighting and prayers, break your fast in the way your family follows.</p><p>Many women also look at the Moon and then at their husbands through a sieve before completing the ritual, a custom tied to devotion and the prayers of the day.</p>

A complete city-by-city guide for Karwa Chauth on October 29, 2026, details exact moonrise timings across major Indian cities, key fasting hours, evening puja muhurat, and traditional moon-sighting rituals.

Karwa Chauth 2026 city-wise moonrise timings: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru schedules & evening puja muhurat

Karwa Chauth 2026 moonrise timings: Check city-wise timings, puja muhurat & more

<p>New Delhi: Filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming biggest Indian film of 2026 - Ramayana Part 1 - is all set to release on November 5. The movie is high on the buzz word and has already crossed Rs 20 cr worldwide in pre-sales. With paid previews on November 4, the epic saga is likely to get a push in opening numbers before it releases the next day.</p><h2>Ramayana advance booking</h2><p>According to trade tracker site, Sacnilk, Ramayana has sold Rs 13.30 Cr in advance bookings across 1 show date, Rs 10.69 Cr without block seats. Day 1 (Thu 5 Nov) has Rs 13.30 Cr; National Capital Region (NCR) is the top city at Rs 2.64 Cr.</p><p>Ramayana has sold around 2.43 lakh tickets. The film is currently selling tickets for 5,600 shows in India across 166 cities, and is observing around 19 percent occupancy.</p><p>The film’s runtime is 3 hours 15 minutes and it has received a U certificate from the CBFC.</p><h2>Ramayana Overseas Advance Booking</h2><p>As per Sacnilk, overseas advance sales of Ramayana continue to be strong, topping $2 million on opening day, with 10 days left before the release date. In North America, the movie has scored $750K, including $550K for the premiere alone. In the UK, the epic has sold tickets worth $90K, while it has grossed $60K+ in Australia. The overall worldwide sales are over $2 million for the opening day, which is solid.</p><p>According to Indian Express report, in the Delhi-NCR region, Ramayana's most expensive ticket on the release day costs Rs 2400, and in the Mumbai region, the most expensive ticket costs Rs 2770.</p><h2>Ramayana Part 1 release</h2><p>Ramayana is one of the biggest films of Indian cinema, bringing one of the greatest epics to life with Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, and Ravie Dubey in the lead roles. Helmed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana Part 1 is slated for release on Diwali 2026, and the second part on Diwali 2027.</p><p>Ramayana Part 1 brings an enduring epic story which goes back in time - the Trinity Gods rule the three worlds: Brahma - god who creates; Vishnu - god who protects; and Shiva - god who transforms. As the realms of heaven and earth edge toward chaos, the Trinity god Vishnu descends to earth in an avatar to restore balance.  </p><p>The estimated budget of Ramayana is around Rs 4,000–4,800 crore ($420-500M).<br> </p>

Ramayanas runtime is 3 hours 15 minutes and it has received a U certificate from the CBFC.

Ramayana advance booking: Ranbir Kapoor film earns Rs 13.30 cr in India pre-sales

<p>New Delhi: From November 1, a series of important LPG cylinder rules and price updates will come into effect. LPG consumers may be required to check their Aadhaar e-KYC status and latest cylinder prices before booking a refill. Subsidised refill booking may be halted for eligible consumers who do not complete the required authentication.</p><h2>Check Aadhaar e-KYC status and cylinder prices</h2><p>From November 1, LPG consumers may need to check their Aadhaar e-KYC status and cylinder prices before booking a refill. Consumers using Indane, Bharatgas and HP Gas should make sure their Aadhaar e-KYC is complete to book a refill. The verification requirement came into effect on October 1, 2026. Those who have already completed the verification do not need to do it again.</p><h2>What will happen if required verification is incomplete?</h2><p>Consumers who have not completed Aadhaar e-KYC may face difficulties booking subsidised LPG refills. Subsidised refill booking may be halted until verification is completed. Consumers eligible for subsidies should complete their e-KYC to avoid problems with refill bookings.</p><h2>What if consumers choose not to authenticate?</h2><p>Consumers choosing not to authenticate can formally register the preference through their respective OMC channels. They will subsequently only be permitted to purchase 5 kg or 10 kg cylinders at standard market rates.</p><h2>Verify rates before booking refills</h2><p>LPG cylinder prices can differ from one city to another. Consumers should check the latest prices in their city before booking a refill in November to know how much they will have to pay.</p><h2>How to complete Aadhaar e-KYC for LPG?</h2><p>Consumers can complete Aadhaar e-KYC through their gas provider's mobile app. Indane customers can use IndianOil One, Bharatgas users can use Hello BPCL, and HP Gas users can use HP Pay. After logging in, they should select the Aadhaar e-KYC option and follow the instructions for face authentication.</p><p>Alternatively, verification can be finalised through local distributors or during the delivery of the physical cylinder.</p><h2>Will LPG cylinder prices change from November 1?</h2><p>Oil marketing companies review commercial LPG prices on the first day of every month. The new prices for November are expected to be announced on November 1. In Delhi, a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder cost Rs 2,810 in October. Domestic LPG prices have remained unchanged since June 7, 2026. The November 1 pricing for these cylinders will depend entirely on the upcoming OMC announcement.</p><h2>What should consumers do?</h2><p>Consumers should complete their Aadhaar e-KYC to avoid problems when booking subsidised LPG refills. They should also check the latest cylinder prices in their city before booking a refill in November.</p>

From November 1, LPG consumers may need to check their Aadhaar e-KYC status and cylinder prices before booking a refill.

LPG cylinder rules changing from November 1: HP, Indane, Bharat Gas customers must know what is new

LPG cylinder rules changing from November 1

<p data-path-to-node="2"><span>Ahead of its nationwide theatrical release on </span>October 30, 2026<span>, National Award-winning filmmaker Vinod Kapri’s feature film </span><em><i data-path-to-node="2" data-index-in-node="132">Pyre</i></em><span> has already forged a deeply emotional connection across the globe. Armed with 18 international awards, the single feature film brings to life a quiet, poignant reflection on love, ageing, and endurance set against the fading heart of a Himalayan village.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="3"><span>Enriched by an evocative musical score from Academy Award winner Michael Danna and heartfelt lyrics by the legendary Gulzar,</span> <em><i data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="125">Pyre</i></em><span> carries a rare, gentle honesty.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="4"><span>In an exclusive conversation with </span>Zee News Digital<span>, director Vinod Kapri opens up about the soul of his film, the advice from veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah that changed its course, and why he chose to let the true, unvarnished lives of two real-life villagers guide the narrative.</span></p><p data-path-to-node="24"><strong>Below is the transcript of the conversation:</strong></p><p><strong>Q1. Cinema is a source of comfort for many viewers. Knowing that lead actress Hira Devi pushed for a gentler ending in Pyre, why did you decide against it?</strong></p><p>"I completely understood why Hira ji wanted a gentler ending. She was living the story in her own way, and perhaps, like most of us, she wanted life to be kinder to her characters. But I felt that giving the audience comfort at the cost of the story’s truth would be unfair to the film and to the people whose lives inspired it.</p><p>Pyre is rooted in the realities of a dying Himalayan village, where people are left behind, families disappear, and old age can be incredibly lonely. I didn’t want to manufacture hope simply because it would make the ending easier to accept. Sometimes, the most honest stories are also the most painful. And I believe cinema must have the courage to let us sit with that pain."</p><p><strong>Q2. How did working with first-time actors like Padam Singh and Hira Devi shape your directing style?</strong></p><p>"It changed my understanding of directing. Padam Singh ji and Hira ji were not trained actors. They had never faced a camera before. They brought their own lives, habits, silences and experiences to the film. My job was not to teach them how to act, but to ensure that the camera did not take away their naturalness.</p><p>Anup Trivedi, an actor trained at the National School of Drama (NSD), was instrumental in preparing and coaching them. His contribution was very important in helping these first-time performers feel comfortable and find their way into the world of the film. But once we were on set, I was careful not to let that preparation turn into something artificial.</p><p>I had to unlearn a lot of what we conventionally understand as acting. Sometimes, a pause or a glance told me more than a perfectly delivered line ever could. I tried to create an environment where they felt safe enough to be themselves, rather than perform what I wanted them to be.</p><p>The biggest lesson was that authenticity cannot be manufactured. You can direct a performance, but you cannot manufacture a lifetime of lived experience. With Padam Singh ji and Hira ji, that experience was already there."</p><p><strong>Q3. You initially considered casting veteran actors like Naseeruddin Shah for Pyre. How would the film’s emotional weight and texture have shifted if seasoned stars played these roles instead of real-life villagers?</strong></p><p>"I have enormous respect for Naseeruddin Shah. In fact, the idea of considering actors from the Himalayas rather than established performers was something Naseer sahab himself encouraged.</p><p>When I struggled to find the right actors from the Himalayan region, I eventually decided to approach Naseer sahab.</p><p>During our conversations, he suggested that if I could find people from the Himalayas themselves, the film might feel rawer and more authentic. I took his advice very seriously because I respect him enormously.</p><p>That advice stayed with me, and I continued looking until I found Padam Singh ji and Hira ji</p><p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://english.zeenews.com/entertainment/article-ramayana-advance-booking-ranbir-kapoor-film-earns-rs-1330-cr-in-india-pre-sales-3160706"><strong>Ramayana advance booking: Ranbir Kapoor film earns Rs 13.30 cr in India pre-sales</strong></a></p><p>Pyre needed something very specific. I was looking for faces that carried the geography, the weather and the history of the mountains within them. Padam Singh ji and Hira ji had lived the kind of lives that the film was trying to capture. Their bodies, their silences, their way of walking and looking at each other came from decades of living together, not from an actor’s preparation.</p><p>A trained actor might have created a remarkable interpretation of these characters. But the texture would inevitably have been different. With Padam Singh ji and Hira ji, there was no visible distance between the people on screen and the lives they were portraying. That gave the film a particular kind of intimacy and unpredictability.</p><p>For me, the greatest achievement was not that two non-actors performed well. It was that they allowed us to forget the idea of performance altogether."</p><p><strong>Q4. The film has won numerous international awards before its commercial theatrical release. Did foreign audiences connect with the core themes of Pyre differently than Indian viewers?</strong></p><p>"What has moved me most is how consistently audiences across cultures have responded to the film’s emotional core. Pyre comes from a very specific place in the Kumaon Himalayas, and its landscape, language and social realities are deeply rooted in that region. Yet audiences in Europe, North America and Asia have connected with its themes of love, loneliness, ageing and waiting.</p><p>I have noticed that viewers sometimes bring different experiences to the film, depending on their own cultures and lives. But the emotions themselves don’t seem to need translation. The relationship between an elderly couple, the fear of being forgotten, and the longing for someone who may never return are not uniquely Indian experiences.</p><p>I would be careful about saying that foreign audiences understand the film differently or respond more strongly than Indian audiences. Every audience is different. I am particularly curious to see how people in India respond when the film opens in cinemas, because the story belongs to our own landscape and to a reality that many of us may have encountered without really stopping to look at it.</p><p>Ultimately, the awards are encouraging, but what matters most to me is whether the film stays with someone after they leave the theatre. If it makes them think about their parents, their grandparents, or an elderly couple in a forgotten village, then I feel the film has done something meaningful."</p><p>PYRE releases in Indian cinemas on 30 October 2026.</p>

In an exclusive conversation with Zee News Digital, National Award-winning director Vinod Kapri reflects on his 18-award-winning film Pyre, sharing how veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah inspired him to cast real Himalayan villagers for an authentic portrayal of love and ageing.

Exclusive: Pyre Director Vinod Kapri on almost casting Naseeruddin Shah and why he dropped the idea

Exclusive: Pyre Director Vinod Kapri on almost casting Naseeruddin Shah

<p>Pakistan have named wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali as captain for the upcoming ICC Women's Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, scheduled to be held in Ajman, UAE, from November 12. Muneeba will lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Fatima Sana, who will miss the tournament due to her commitments with Perth Scorchers in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).</p><p>This will be the second time this year that Muneeba has taken over the captaincy from Sana. She previously led Pakistan during the T20I leg of their tour of Sri Lanka in July, when Sana was representing Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred.</p><p>Muneeba will also return to Pakistan’s squad for the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy after missing the Asian Games due to personal reasons. Batter Ayesha Zafar has been appointed vice-captain for the tournament.</p><h2><strong>Pakistan announce 14-member squad</strong></h2><p>Pakistan have named a 14-member squad for the competition. All-rounder Aliya Riaz and pacer Humna Bilal have been left out of the squad that featured at the Asian Games.</p><p>Apart from Sana’s absence, the squad largely resembles the one that represented Pakistan in the Women’s Asia Cup before the Asian Games. Waheeda Akhtar and Sadaf Shamas, who were part of the Asia Cup squad but missed the Asian Games, have also been included.</p><h2><strong>Pakistan Squad for Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026</strong></h2><p>Muneeba Ali (captain), Ayesha Zafar (vice-captain), Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Nashra Sundhu, Sadaf Shamas, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani and Waheeda Akhtar.</p><h2><strong>Pakistan to begin preparations in Lahore</strong></h2><p>The Pakistan squad will assemble in Lahore on November 6 for a training camp scheduled from November 7 to 9. The team will then travel to the UAE for the ten-team tournament, which begins on November 12.</p>

Pakistan have named Muneeba Ali as captain for the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, with regular skipper Fatima Sana unavailable due to her WBBL commitments. Ayesha Zafar has been appointed vice-captain of the 14-member squad for the tournament, which begins in the UAE on November 12.

Pakistan name Muneeba Ali captain for women’s Emerging nations Trophy 2026, Fatima Sana to miss tournament

Pakistan name Muneeba Ali captain for women’s Emerging nations Trophy 2026

<p>Mumbai: Actors Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon are set to bring the horror film 'Obsession' to Hindi-speaking audiences, lending their voices to the lead characters in the Hindi-dubbed version. </p><p>The film follows Bear, a music store worker who has feelings for his colleague Nikki. His life takes a dark turn when he uses a mysterious toy called the ‘One Wish Willow’ to make her fall in love with him. However, his wish leads to unexpected and frightening events as Nikki becomes increasingly obsessed with him.</p><p>Kriti, who has lent her voice to another actor’s performance for the first time, spoke about her experience working on the film. She said she enjoyed the story and found the role both exciting and challenging.</p><p>JioHotstar, on Tuesday, shared a promotional video on Instagram featuring Kriti and Dhawan hilariously recreating the famous car scene from the global horror hit film. </p><p>Take a look </p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background-color:#FFF;border-radius:3px;border-width:0;box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);margin:1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/De_HrhsDFYN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div><div><div> </div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div> </div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/De_HrhsDFYN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div><div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/De_HrhsDFYN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div></div><div> </div><div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/De_HrhsDFYN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by JioHotstar (@jiohotstar)</a></p></div></blockquote><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><p> “I absolutely loved the film and the performances in Obsession. It’s such a gripping, quirky &amp; twisted story. I’ve never explored a character this edgy before, which made the experience even more exciting &amp; challenging. This is also the first time I’ve lent my voice to another actor’s performance, and I couldn’t have asked for a more exciting film to make that debut with! I had a lot of fun voicing for it and I can’t wait for the audiences to experience the film in Hindi,” said Kriti as per a release. </p><p>Varun also spoke about how working on the Hindi version allowed him to notice details he had missed while watching the film earlier. He said the dubbing process gave him a different way to understand the story.</p><p>“Working on the Hindi version of Obsession gave me an opportunity to experience the story from a completely different perspective. In fact, I found myself enjoying the film even more because I could look at it so closely. I noticed so many little details that I may have missed on a first watch, and that made the whole experience even more interesting. I’m excited for audiences to experience Obsession in Hindi and discover those details for themselves,” he said.</p><p>‘Obsession’ was released in Indian theatres on May 29, 2026. The film follows a mix of horror and romance, with its story focusing on what happens when love turns into an unhealthy obsession.</p><p>The film will begin streaming in English and Hindi on the Peacock Hub on JioHotstar on October 30. </p>

Kriti, who has lent her voice to another actor’s performance for the first time, spoke about her experience working on the film.

Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon team up for Hindi-dubbed version of ‘Obsession’

<p>Washington: Global tech giant Microsoft has offered voluntary buyouts to <strong>60,000 employees across four countries</strong> including India. As part of the company’s global plan, Microsoft is offering 60,000 employees in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and India <strong>a voluntary departure scheme</strong>.</p><p>The buyout offer is available to employees up to Level 70 and below. This bracket covers a vast majority of the company's workforce that includes entry level engineers, mid-management and senior roles. </p><p>According to an internal company memo by Amy Coleman, Microsoft’s Chief People Officer, the program is designed for eligible staff who are ready to explore career opportunities outside the company.</p><p>"Today, we're introducing a new Voluntary Exit Offer (VEO) to eligible employees within participating organisations. This offer gives eligible employees who may be considering a future outside the company a new choice to make that transition now with support," Coleman stated in the communication. "It also gives participating organisations another way to adapt their workforce to changing needs."</p><p>The buyout offer, as per the memo, will provide departing employees with financial compensation packages alongside dedicated career planning resources. Micosoft though has clarified that the buyout scheme will not be applied universally across all internal teams.</p><p>"Some organisations are providing the Voluntary Exit Offer, and some are not. Participation varies based on each business's priorities, customer commitments and workforce needs," Coleman said. He further noted that eligible individuals would receive emails containing specific offer details.</p><p>"The Voluntary Exit Offer is new for us. We'll learn from it," Coleman wrote. "At the same time, we'll keep helping people focus on the work that matters most, build new skills and, where it makes sense, find new opportunities across Microsoft. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for every team or every employee."</p>

The Microsoft buyout offer is available to employees up to Level 70 and below.

Microsoft announces Voluntary Exit Offer for 60,000 employees across India, US, UK, and Canada

Microsoft announces Exit Offer for 60,000 employees across India, US, UK, Canada

<p>Chennai: Condemning in the strongest possible terms the act of circulating a morphed AI video of her by miscreants, actress Sunainaa has now announced that she will initiate criminal and civil proceedings against every person responsible for creating, publishing or circulating the content. </p><p>The actress, who has delivered noteworthy performances in several Tamil films including the critically acclaimed 'Neerparavai', has made it clear that anyone who was found sharing the morphed AI video too would be held liable.</p><p>In a statement which she shared on her Instagram page, Sunainaa said, "It has come to my notice that an AI video is being circulated on social media and other online platforms in which my face has been morphed, using artificial intelligence, onto obscene content. The content is digitally generated or manipulated, with a person made to resemble me in appearance, likeness and persona."</p><p>She went on to say, "I am appalled and disgusted by this vile and malicious act, and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms."</p><p>Making it clear that she had neither consented to nor authorised the creation, publication or circulation of the content in question in any manner, the actress said that any suggestion, express or implied, that she was associated with it was false, misleading and without any foundation.</p><p>"This is a gross violation of my dignity, my privacy and my identity. It amounts to sexual harassment, is defamatory, and constitutes a criminal offence under the laws of India, including the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Such conduct is wholly unacceptable and will not be tolerated," she said.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background-color:#FFF;border-radius:3px;border-width:0;box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);margin:1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/De9prKfEgwk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div><div><div> </div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div> </div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De9prKfEgwk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div><div><div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De9prKfEgwk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div></div><div> </div><div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div><div><div> </div><div> </div></div><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/De9prKfEgwk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Sunainaa (@thesunainaa)</a></p></div></blockquote><script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><p> Cautioning those responsible for the video to immediately stop creating, uploading, sharing, forwarding or reposting the content, or any part or variation of it, the actress asked people to delete it from every platform, account, group and device under their control.</p><p>"I will initiate criminal and civil proceedings, without further notice, against every person responsible for creating, publishing or circulating this content. Anyone who shares it further will also be held liable.I request my well-wishers, the public and the media not to share this content, and to report it wherever it is found. All my rights and remedies are expressly reserved," she stated.</p>

Tamil actress Sunainaa has announced criminal and civil legal action against the creators and circulators of an obscene morphed AI video targeting her, condemning the act as a gross violation of her dignity and privacy.

Actress Sunainaa to take legal action over morphed AI video, warns violators

Actress Sunainaa to take legal action over morphed AI video, warns violators of criminal charges

<p>Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer has won the toss and opted to field against New Zealand in the third T20I in Wellington on Tuesday. <br><br>India will look to seal the five-match T20I series in the third encounter at Wellington’s Hnry Stadium on Tuesday. The visitors head into the clash with a commanding 2-0 lead after winning the opening two matches against the 2026 T20 World Cup runners-up, putting them in a strong position to clinch the series with two games to spare after this.<br><br>"We are going to bowl. Certain aspects we definitely need to keep improving. The dimensions and conditions are different, so the quicker we adapt the better for us. A lot of players are pretty mature to understand when they are not starting. Same team for us," Iyer said at the toss. <br><br>"Looks like another good wicket, some pace and bounce. There is no nice wind. The dimensions are slightly different to where we have come from. We know India are a great side; you can't let your foot off the gas. Three changes. Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson and Nathan Smith are out. Matthew Fisher, Kyle Jamieson and Adam Milne are in," New Zealand skipper Mitch Santner said. <br><br>New Zealand’s biggest concern has been their uncharacteristically poor bowling discipline. The Black Caps conceded 17 extras in the opening match, including 16 wides and a no-ball, before giving away 10 extras in the second game, comprising five wides and three no-balls.<br><br>Meanwhile, India have their own bowling concerns to address. In the first T20I, every bowler conceded at more than 10 rpo, the first time India had suffered that fate in a T20I. <br><br><strong>Teams</strong>:<br><br><strong>New Zealand (Playing XI):</strong> Tim Seifert(w), Finn Allen, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Bevon Jacobs, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher.<br><br><strong>India (Playing XI):</strong> Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Shreyas Iyer(c), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav. </p>

India won the toss and elected to bowl first against New Zealand in the third T20I in Wellington, with Shreyas Iyer’s side eyeing a series-clinching victory. New Zealand made three changes to their playing XI as they look to bounce back from a 0-2 deficit in the five-match series.

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I: India elect to bowl first as New Zealand make three changes

<p>Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has congratulated England captain Harry Kane after the Bayern Munich striker won the 2026 Ballon d'Or. Kohli shared a heartfelt message for Kane, praising his resilience, hard work and honesty throughout his career at the highest level of football.</p><p>Addressing the England international as "my friend", Kohli expressed his happiness at Kane’s achievement and extended his best wishes to the striker and his family. The message highlighted the respect between the two sporting stars, who have established themselves among the leading figures in their respective sports.</p><h2><strong>Virat Kohli's special message for Harry Kane</strong></h2><p>Kohli took to his official X account to congratulate Kane on winning football’s most prestigious individual honour. The former India captain acknowledged the effort and perseverance behind the striker’s success.</p><p>"Harry my friend, you deserve every bit of this award for your resilience, hard work and honesty with which you’ve carried yourself through all these years playing football at the top. Really happy for you. God bless you and your family. They must all be very proud of you as you would be of your own journey. My best wishes always. Congratulations," Kohli wrote.</p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Harry my friend, you deserve every bit of this award for your resilience, hard work and honesty with which you’ve carried yourself through all these years playing football at the top. Really happy for you. God bless you and your family. They must all be very proud of you as you would be of your own journey. My best wishes always. Congratulations 👏❤️ @HKane</p><p>— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://x.com/imVkohli/status/2114955771758932439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2026</a></p></blockquote><p>The message came after Kane’s remarkable achievement at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, where the England captain received recognition for his performances during the season.</p><h2><strong>Harry Kane wins Ballon d’Or 2026</strong></h2><p>Kane claimed the men's Ballon d’Or after an outstanding campaign with Bayern Munich. He became the first Englishman to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001, ending a 25-year wait for an English winner.</p><p>The striker finished ahead of prominent contenders Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to secure the prestigious individual honour.</p><p>Kane enjoyed a prolific season, scoring 73 goals and providing eight assists, according to the figures provided. His performances played a key role in Bayern Munich’s success across domestic competitions, with the German club winning the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup.</p><p>The award represents a major milestone in Kane’s career, recognising his goalscoring consistency and contribution to Bayern Munich’s achievements.</p><p>Meanwhile, Spain international Alexia Putellas claimed the Women's Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career, adding another major individual honour to her collection.</p>

Virat Kohli congratulated Harry Kane on winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or, sharing a heartfelt message for the Bayern Munich striker. Kane’s prolific performances and trophy-winning campaign helped him claim football’s most prestigious individual honour.

Virat Kohli congratulates Harry Kane on Ballon d’Or 2026 win, shares heartfelt message

Virat Kohli congratulates Harry Kane on Ballon d’Or 2026 win

<p>New Delhi: Noel Tata has escalated his challenge to N Chandrasekaran's reappointment as Executive Chairman of Tata Sons, alleging procedural lapses in the board decision and raising questions over potential conflict of interest.</p><p>In a letter dated to Tata Sons Company Secretary Suprakash Mukhopadhyay, Noel Tata has sought extensive records and disclosures within seven days, arguing that the reappointment resolution is void.</p><p>According to Noel Tata, the reappointment of Chandrasekaran for five years from February 21, 2027 was improperly introduced.</p><p>He said neither the original nor the revised board agenda identified a resolution on the Executive Chairman's reappointment with Item 7 described only as Debriefing from Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC).</p><p>The resolution was moved under that item even though the committee's agenda and minutes had not been circulated to directors, he added.</p><p>He also questioned the absence of a selection committee under Article 118 of Tata Sons' Articles of Association and said the affirmative vote required from directors appointed under Article 104B read with Article 121 was not obtained.</p><p>Noel Tata further objected to the company secretary certifying the resolution and filing it with the Registrar of Companies before board minutes were finalised.</p><p>He has demanded the original audio-video recording and transcript of the September 17 meeting, final minutes, individual voting records and audit trail of changes to board papers.</p><p>The second issue concerns Hanno One Warehousing -- a company whose directors include Chandrasekaran's wife and son.</p><p>Noel Tata questioned whether these commercial relationships were disclosed to Tata Sons before the reappointment was considered.</p><p>He also questioned the role of Venu Srinivasan -- TVS Motor's Chairman Emeritus and member of Tata Sons' NRC -- who participated in the September 3 deliberations and cast the Article 104B director's vote.</p><p>He said Srinivasan ought to have disclosed the dealings and recused himself.</p>

According to Noel Tata, the reappointment of Chandrasekaran for five years from February 21, 2027 was improperly introduced.

Tata Sons row: Noel Tata challenges Chandrasekaran's reappointment, alleges procedural lapses

Noel Tata challenges Chandrasekaran's reappointment, alleges procedural lapses

<p><span>Los Angeles: Veteran actor Walter Koenig, best known for portraying Pavel Andreievich Chekov in the original “Star Trek” television series and seven “Star Trek” feature films, has passed away at the age of 90.</span><br><span>According to The Hollywood Reporter, Koenig’s representative announced that the actor died of natural causes at his home on Sunday.</span><br><span>Born and raised in Manhattan to Lithuanian immigrant parents, Koenig joined Gene Roddenberry’s 'Star Trek'  at the beginning of its second season. He appeared in 36 of the 50 episodes broadcast during the 1967–68 and 1968–69 seasons, portraying Russian navigator Pavel Andreievich Chekov.</span><br><span>Koenig went on to reprise the role in the first seven “Star Trek” feature films released by Paramount between 1979 and 1991. His contributions to the franchise earned him widespread recognition among science fiction fans.</span><br><span>In a 2013 interview for the TV Academy Foundation, Koenig revealed that he didn’t watch Star Trek before he came aboard.</span><br><span>“I’d flip through the channels and I’d see Styrofoam rocks — they were so obviously Styrofoam — and I said, ‘This has got to be phony.’ I didn’t give it a chance,” he recalled.</span><br><span>Before joining “Star Trek”, Koenig had appeared in several television productions. In 1963, he portrayed a student who had defected to the United States in an episode of the NBC drama “Mr. Novak”, marking the first time he played a Russian character in his career.</span><br><span>In 1964, he guest-starred in an episode of “The Lieutenant”, another series created by Roddenberry. He portrayed a young sergeant aspiring to become an officer, whose ambitions were complicated by the fact that his mother was a communist.</span><br><span>Koenig’s contributions to the Star Trek film franchise earned him greater recognition, including nominations from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy &amp; Horror Films for his performances in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986).</span><br><span>On the personal front, Koenig married actress Judy Levitt in July 1965. Levitt appeared alongside him in three “Star Trek” films and also featured in “Babylon 5”. The couple remained together until her death in December 2022 at the age of 83.</span><br><span>Their son, Andrew Koenig, was known for playing Richard “Boner” Stabone on the ABC sitcom “Growing Pains”. He died by suicide in 2010 at the age of 41.</span></p>

Veteran actor Walter Koenig, world-renowned for playing Russian navigator Pavel Chekov in the original Star Trek series and seven feature films, has passed away from natural causes at age 90.

'Star Trek' veteran Walter Koenig, who played Chekov, passes away at 90

<p><span><strong>New Delhi:</strong> Placing the capital in the moderate category, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 168 on Tuesday (October 27) morning, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Toxic white foam reappeared on the Yamuna near Kalindi Kunj.</span></p><p><span>The AQI stood at 164 at 7 am on Monday (October 26), also in the moderate category. Tuesday’s reading showed a slight rise from the previous day.</span></p><p><span>Several parts of the national capital recorded poor air quality. Jahangirpuri topped the list with an AQI of 251, followed by Rohini at 237, RK Puram at 234, Dwarka Sector 8 at 223, Bawana at 216, IIT Delhi at 214, IGI Airport Terminal 3 at 211 and Punjabi Bagh at 200.</span></p><p><span>Other monitoring stations recorded moderate air quality. Chandni Chowk reported an AQI of 198, Alipur 197, Patparganj 195 and Anand Vihar 175. The readings stood at 150 in IGNOU Maidan Garhi, 146 at JNU and 129 at Narela.</span></p><p><span>Anti-smog guns were seen spraying water on roads to control dust pollution across the city.</span></p><p><span>Greater Noida had an AQI of 156, while Noida stood at 143. Both cities fell in the moderate category. Mumbai’s AQI was 98, in the satisfactory category. Kalanagar recorded an AQI of 139 and fell in the moderate category.</span></p><p><span>Under CPCB guidelines, an AQI of 0-50 is classified as good, 51-100 as satisfactory, 101-200 as moderate, 201-300 as poor, 301-400 as very poor and 401-500 as severe.</span></p><h2><span><strong>Toxic foam returns to Yamuna</strong></span></h2><p><span>Thick white foam was seen floating on the Yamuna near Kalindi Kunj in Delhi-NCR. Latest visuals showed large patches of foam covering the river’s surface, a sign of persistent pollution.</span></p><p><span>The foam reappeared days after Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta praised the government’s efforts to revive the Yamuna. She had described the inauguration of infrastructure projects worth around Rs 9,000 crore as a “joyful day” for residents.</span></p>

Several city neighbourhoods recorded AQI levels above 200. It prompted the use of anti-smog guns to control road dust.

Delhi AQI today: 8 areas in ‘poor’ category, check your locality’s air quality

<p>Sri Lanka batter Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan as he continues to recover from a left hamstring injury. Lahiru Udara has been named as his replacement, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed on Tuesday.</p><p>"Pathum Nissanka will miss the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, as he is yet to recover from his left hamstring injury. The Cricket Selection Committee has named Lahiru Udara as his replacement. Udara is already in Pakistan as part of Sri Lanka’s ODI squad," SLC said in a statement.</p><p>Nissanka was initially included in Sri Lanka’s 15-member squad for the series, subject to regaining full fitness ahead of the opening Test. His continued recovery from the injury has now forced him out of the tour, providing Udara with an opportunity to feature in the Test setup.</p><p>Udara was not part of the original squad announcement despite his impressive performance against the West Indies in June, when he scored 188. However, his presence in Pakistan with Sri Lanka’s ODI squad has made the transition easier following Nissanka’s withdrawal.</p><p>The two-Test series, part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle, begins on November 9. The matches will be played in Rawalpindi and Lahore, with Sri Lanka looking to improve their position in the standings.</p><p>Kusal Mendis will captain the visiting side after being appointed skipper earlier this month. The original squad also featured the experienced Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis, while Dilshan Madushanka earned a recall. Eshan Malinga and Anjala Bandara were also handed call-ups.</p><p>Sri Lanka currently sit seventh in the World Test Championship standings, while Pakistan occupy ninth place. The upcoming series presents both sides with an opportunity to strengthen their positions in the competition, with the hosts set to welcome Sri Lanka for the two fixtures.</p><p>The Islanders are currently playing Pakistan and England in an ODI tri-series, having lost their first game against hosts Pakistan and won their second game against the three lions in a thrilling manner. The tri-series concludes on October 31.</p><p>Sri Lanka's updated squad: Kusal Mendis (c), Anjala Bandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya De Silva, Sonal Dinusha, Asitha Fernando, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, Lahiru Udara, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayaka, Pasindu Sooriyabandara.</p>

Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out of Sri Lanka’s upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan due to a left hamstring injury, with Lahiru Udara named as his replacement. The series begins on November 9, with both teams looking to improve their positions in the ICC World Test Championship standings.

Pathum Nissanka ruled out with injury, Lahiru Udara named replacement

<p>Chennai: Actor Suriya is all set to play a police officer with a different approach to investigations in his upcoming film ‘Scene’. The makers have released a new glimpse of the film, introducing Suriya as DSP Inbaraj, a cheerful and intelligent officer who uses his own methods while investigating a case.</p><p>The one-minute-and-four-second glimpse is set during the COVID-19 outbreak. Despite dealing with a serious case, Inbaraj is seen cracking jokes and maintaining his cheerful nature while carrying out the investigation. The glimpse offers a look at Suriya’s character and his way of handling a case.</p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hello Dear All, With love, DSP Inbaraj  https://t.co/wlxSSJfaaG #JithuMadhavan #Jyotika #NazriyaFahadh #Naslen @sushintdt #JayshreeDamodharan @rajsekarpandian @ZhagaramOffl @2D_ENTPVTLTD @SakthiFilmFctry @SonyMusicSouth</p><p>— Suriya Sivakumar (@Suriya_offl) <a href="https://x.com/Suriya_offl/status/2114680964597309868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2026</a></p></blockquote><script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><p> The video is backed by an energetic score by Sushin Shyam and ends with a voice-over by Naslen, who plays Eeswaran in the film. His character says, “Innum Mudiyala…” which means “It isn't over yet.” The track featured in the glimpse is titled ‘Respectaa’. It has been sung by Arivu, with lyrics penned by Vaasi.</p><p>Directed by Jithu Madhavan, aka ‘Aavesham’, the film also stars Nazriya Nazim Fahadh in a co-lead role. Anandraj, Lal and Raj Priyan are also part of the cast.</p><p>‘Scene’ is written and directed by Jithu Madhavan and produced by Jyotika and Suriya under the banner of Zhagaram Studios. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on November 6, 2026, coinciding with Diwali.</p><p>Suriya was last seen in the romantic drama Vishwanath &amp; Sons, helmed by Venky Atluri and featuring Mamitha Baiju alongside him. The film revolves around Sanjay Vishwanath, a successful industrialist who embraces fatherhood through surrogacy and eventually forms a close connection with Maddy, a medical student.</p><p>The film also stars Radikaa Sarathkumar, Raveena Tandon, Sunil Reddy, Harika, Nassar and Rajiv Menon. It is available to stream on Netflix. </p>

Directed by Jithu Madhavan, aka ‘Aavesham’, the film also stars Nazriya Nazim Fahadh in a co-lead role. Anandraj, Lal and Raj Priyan are also part of the cast.

Suriya’s 'Scene' glimpse out: Actor plays jolly cop in upcoming action-comedy

<p><span><strong>New Delhi:</strong> Counting of votes for 28 legislative council seats across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Karnataka began on Tuesday (October 27). The results will test the support base of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress and their allies among graduates and teachers.</span></p><p><span>Polling for the seats was held on October 23. The elections were held in graduates’ and teachers’ constituencies across the four states. Major political parties and regional outfits are contesting the elections to strengthen their representation in the states’ Upper Houses.</span></p><p><span>The results will show how the parties have performed among these voter groups and whether alliances have managed to hold their support bases together. Rebel candidates and allegations over counting procedures have featured in several constituencies.</span></p><h2><span><strong>Maharashtra: Mahayuti and MVA face test</strong></span></h2><p><span>Counting began for five Maharashtra Legislative Council seats, where 182 candidates are in the fray. The constituencies include Pune, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar graduates’ seats, along with the Pune and Amravati teachers’ seats. The five constituencies have a combined electorate of 10,68,072 voters.</span></p><p><span>Polling recorded an overall turnout of 72.96 per cent across 2,419 polling stations. Amravati Teachers’ constituency recorded the highest turnout at 92.6 per cent, followed by Pune at 85.86 per cent. Turnout stood at 64.84 per cent in Nagpur, 62.76 per cent in Pune and 59.12 per cent in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar graduates’ constituencies.</span></p><p><span>In Nagpur, BJP candidate Sudhakar Kohale is challenging sitting Congress MLC Abhijit Wanjari. The BJP is seeking to regain a seat it held for nearly six decades before Wanjari won it in 2020.</span></p><p><span>With around 3.88 lakh registered voters and 47 candidates, Pune Graduates’ constituency has the largest electorate. BJP nominee Smita Jadhav is contesting against NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) candidate Harshada Deshmukh-Jadhav, while Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Sunil Modi is also in the race.</span></p><p><span>The Pune teachers’ contest has exposed differences within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. BJP candidate Kaustubh Gawde is facing sitting Congress MLC Jayant Asgaonkar, while the Shiv Sena led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is backing independent candidate Sachin Sanap. Former MLC Dattatray Sawant of the Rashtriya Samaj Paksha is also contesting.</span></p><p><span>In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar graduates’ constituency, sitting MLC Satish Chavan, who represents the NCP led by Sunetra Pawar, is facing NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) nominee Pratapsinh Patil. Shiv Sena (UBT) has also fielded a candidate. The constituency has around 3.26 lakh registered voters and 41 candidates.</span></p><p><span>The Amravati teachers’ constituency is also witnessing divisions within the ruling alliance. Sitting MLC Kiran Sarnaik, the official candidate of Shinde-led Shiv Sena, is facing Congress nominee Aditi Pohare. BJP rebels Sangeeta Shinde, Shekhar Bhoyar and Sumit Pawar are also in the fray, along with Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Dattatraya Lahane.</span></p><h2><span><strong>Karnataka: BJP-JD(S) alliance faces Congress</strong></span></h2><p><span>Counting is underway for four Karnataka Legislative Council seats. A total of 43 candidates are contesting across the South-East and West graduates’ constituencies and the North-East and Bengaluru teachers’ constituencies.</span></p><p><span>The BJP presently holds three of the four seats, while the Congress holds the Bengaluru teachers’ seat. The BJP has fielded candidates in the two graduates’ constituencies and the North-East teachers’ constituency. Its ally JD(S) is contesting the Bengaluru teachers’ seat.</span></p><p><span>In South-East graduates’ constituency, Congress candidate Shashi Hulikunte Mutt is facing BJP nominee K M Suresh. In West, sitting BJP MLC S V Sankanur is seeking a third term against Congress candidate Mohan Limbikai, an advocate and former MLC who previously belonged to the BJP.</span></p><p><span>Congress candidate Sharanappa Mattur is challenging sitting BJP MLC Shashil G Namoshi in North-East teachers’ constituency. In Bengaluru, Congress MLC Puttanna is contesting against JD(S) candidate A P Ranganath.</span></p><p><span>The Bengaluru contest has added interest because Puttanna switched from the JD(S) to Congress ahead of the previous assembly elections.</span> <span>Both candidates belong to the Vokkaliga community. Clashes between Congress and NDA workers were also reported during the polling.</span></p><p><span>Turnout stood at 73.58 per cent in the South-East and 75.62 per cent in West graduates’ constituencies and 86.97 per cent in North-East and 81.98 per cent in Bengaluru teachers’ constituencies.</span></p><p><span>The Congress is seeking to defend its Bengaluru seat and make gains in the other constituencies. The BJP-JD(S) alliance is aiming to retain the three seats held by the BJP and win the Bengaluru seat from the Congress.</span></p><h2><span><strong>Uttar Pradesh and Bihar contests</strong></span></h2><p><span>In Uttar Pradesh, polling was held for five graduates’ constituencies in Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, Meerut and Allahabad-Jhansi, along with six teachers’ constituencies in Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, Meerut, Bareilly-Moradabad and Gorakhpur-Faizabad.</span></p><p><span>BJP Lucknow graduates’ constituency candidate Awanish Kumar Singh expressed confidence in his party’s performance. "The way all the Bharatiya Janata Party workers have facilitated the voting process today, with such a massive turnout, is remarkable. A huge number of ballots are set to be cast in favour of the BJP. With the grace of Lord Ram and the blessings of Hanuman ji, we will secure victory," he told ANI.</span></p><p><span>Samajwadi Party teachers’ constituency candidate Sushil Kumar urged officials to ensure that counting was conducted fairly and without outside influence.</span></p><p><span>"I urge the administration to uphold the integrity and impartiality of the election process. It must be ensured that no external pressure, whether from the government or any other entity, is allowed to influence the proceedings. This is their constitutional duty," he said.</span></p><p><span>Bihar went to the polls for eight seats: graduates’ constituencies in Patna, Darbhanga, Tirhut and Kosi and teachers’ constituencies in Patna, Darbhanga, Tirhut and Saran. Counting for the Patna graduates’ and teachers’ constituencies is taking place at Bankipur Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School.</span></p><p><span>Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh alleged that the counting centre lacked CCTV cameras and that the area designated for counting agents was in poor condition.</span></p><p><span>"The voters have made their decision. Jan Suraaj is set to win the Patna Graduates’ constituency seat by a significant margin. In the area where the counting takes place, there are no CCTV cameras installed. This is not right; we are feeling a bit apprehensive. There absolutely must be CCTV cameras there. We have raised this with the returning officer," he said.</span></p><p><span>He also alleged that the area where counting agents were seated was unhygienic and had a foul smell.</span></p><p><span>The Election Commission announced the Karnataka biennial polls on September 23, while Maharashtra issued its formal notification on September 29. The Maharashtra election process is scheduled to conclude by October 31, with the terms of the sitting members ending on December 6. The Karnataka polls were called ahead of the scheduled completion of the sitting members’ terms on November 11.</span></p>

The results will show how much support each party commands among teachers and graduates. Rebel candidates and alliance rivalries have added to the contest.

Teachers and graduates have spoken: Why BJP, Congress and allies are holding breath over 28 crucial seats

Teachers and graduates have spoken: Why BJP, Cong & allies face test across 4 states

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