9 May 2023_

Y MEDIA TEAM AT LIBERAL CONVENTION 2023

IMRAN KHAN ARRESTED BY PAKISTAN RANGERS ON NAB'S ORDERS

Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party and the Official Opposition, had the distinct privilege of attending and speaking at the Khalsa Day Celebration at the Sikh Spiritual Centre Toronto. There, he extended his heartfelt wishes to Canadians who are proudly celebrating the Sikh New Year and expressed his hope and optimism for Punjabi Canadians.

While speaking with attendees, Mr. Poilievre focused on issues facing everyday Canadians after eight years of Justin Trudeau, especially the soaring cost of living, out of control crime, and lack of houses. Above all, he championed his push for a direct flight from Canada to Amritsar.

BIDEN TO HOST PM MODI DURING HIS US VISIT ON JUNE 22

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosted by US President Joe Biden during his state visit to the country on June 22, which will "affirm the deep and close partnership between the United States and India and the warm bonds of family and friendship that link Americans and Indians together" a statement issued by the White House said on Wednesday.Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosted by US President Joe Biden during his state visit to the country on June 22, which will "affirm the deep and close partnership between the United States and India and the warm bonds of family and friendship that link Americans and Indians together" a statement issued by the White House said on Wednesday.

"President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will host Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India for an Official State Visit to the United States, which will include a state dinner, on June 22, 2023, The visit will strengthen our two countries' shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific and our shared resolve to elevate our strategic technology partnership, including in defence, clean energy and space," the statement added.

The two leaders will discuss ways to further expand the educational exchanges and people-to-people ties between India and the US, as well as the work together to confront common challenges from climate change, to workforce development and health security, it said.

KAMALJIT KANG PRESIDENT KABADDI FEDERATION CANADA SHOT & INJURED OUTSIDE HIS HOUSE IN SURREY, BC

Canada's Kabaddi Federation president Kamaljit Singh Kang alias Neetu Kang was shot at outside his house by unknown assailants in Surrey's Bear Creek area on Friday, May 5. The assailants managed to escape the spot before the police arrived. Seriously injured in the incident, Kang was a member of the North India Circle Style Kabaddi Association, Canada.

SURJAN SINGH CHATHA ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH SANDEEP NANGAL AMBIAN'S MURDER

Surjan Singh Chatha, the main accused in the murder of international kabaddi player Sandeep Singh Nangal Ambiyan, was arrested from an apartment building in Jalandhar on Wednesday, May 3 night.

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KHALISTANI LEADER PARAMJIT PANJWAR SHOT DEAD IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN

Wanted Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar was reportedly shot dead by two unidentified gunmen in Johar town of Lahore in Pakistan on Saturday, May 6. According to the sources, he was gunned down by two motorcycle-borne men when he was taking a walk in his housing society.

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SACHIT MEHRA ELECTED NEW LIBERAL PARTY PRESIDENT

Indo-Canadian Sachit Mehra has been elected as the new President of Canada's ruling Liberal Party, responsible for party membership, fundraising and building structures. Mehra was declared elected at the end of the party's three-day convention in Ottawa on Saturday, May 6.

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LIBERALS SUPPORT OUT OF TOUCH POLICIES AT CONVENTION

At their national convention, the Liberal Party of Canada proved that they reject the common sense of the common people and instead are increasingly focused on pandering to a small group of out of touch, far-left activists. Justin Trudeau's Liberals are doubling down on their costly and failed policies that have punished Canadians over the last eight years and driven up the cost-ofliving to record highs.

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KING CHARLES III, QUEEN CAMILLA CROWNED AT WESTMINSTER ABEY IN LONDON

King Charles III and Queen Camilla have been crowned in a majestic ceremonial event in seven decades at Westminster Abbey in London on Saturday, media reports said. Archbishop of Canterbury placed St Edward's Crown on the head of King Charles III who was wearing his grandfather's crimson velvet robe, BBC reported.

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INDIA SLAMS PAKISTAN ON TERRORISM

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday called Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari a "spokesperson of terror industry", which is the mainstay of Pakistan. Addressing a press conference on the sidelines of the meeting of foreign ministers of the member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here,

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Kamal Khera Minister of Seniors of Canada

François-Philippe Champagne Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada

Jean-Yves Duclos Minister of Health of Canada

Harjit Sajjan Minister of International Development of Canada

REPORTS ON CHANNEL Y AND Y PLUS, BELL 828, TELUS 2418, ROGERS 857, IGNITE 707.

Maninder Sidhu Member of Parliament Brampton East

Helena Jaczek Member of Parliament Markham-Stouffville

Sonia Sidhu Member of Parliament Brampton South

Sachit Mehra Liberal Party president

Ruby Sahota Member of Parliament Brampton North

Anita Anand Minister of National Defence of Canada

Justin Trudeau Prime Minister of Canada Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport of Canada

Y MEDIA TEAM AT LIBERAL CONVENTION 2023

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Liberal insiders endorsed policies that advance their plan to phase out the jobs of energy workers in Western Canada and Newfoundland.

They voted for a plan that will pile massive new costs on Canadian farmers at a time when unprecedented numbers of Canadians are lining up at food banks because they can't afford groceries. Liberals embraced a woke proposal for big city gatekeepers to close major roadways that Canadians use to get to work and go about their lives. They committed to taking their censorship agenda from Bill C-11 and expanding it to regulate what journalists and politicians are allowed to say to Canadians. And you won't believe what they rejected. The Liberals blocked a proposal to provide greater protection for whistleblowers like those who have come forward to expose countless Liberal scandals. And outrageously, after eight years of inflationary deficits that have increased the cost of everything, the Liberals voted against a proposal that would have required them to present a plan to balance the federal budget. These reckless policies are what Liberal Minister Mona Fortier says will be "official policy for the next eight years" if the costly coalition of the Liberals and the NDP remain in charge.

Canada's Conservatives offer a different common sense vision, one where we bring home lower prices for Canadian families, bring homes that young people can afford and where Canada once again works for the people who do the work.

Y MEDIA TEAM COVERS THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY ORGANIZED BY OM FINANCIAL

FIRST YOUTH HUB IN BRAMPTON OPENS

BRAMPTON, ON – The City of Brampton celebrated youth week with the grand opening of its first official Youth Hub on Monday. Located at the Susan Fennell Sportsplex, the Youth Hub opening welcomed local dignitaries, council colleagues, youth groups, youth, residents, and members of the media. The Youth Hub is the first of its kind in Brampton, and is one of two, with the second Youth Hub planned to open at Century Gardens in the fall of 2024. These youth hubs are designed to serve the unique needs of youth, offering continuous access to leadership and engagement opportunities in arts, recreation, and civic engagement.

“We have been working on increasing support for our youth since 2019, and it is incredible to see the first youth hub open today as part of our recognition of Youth Week this year,” says Santos, who emcee’d the grand opening ceremony and serves as Chair of Community Services. Santos added that “providing safe spaces like this, especially postpandemic, are vital for young people to reconnect and engage in-person, instead of online social media. With an increase in mental health issues amongst our youth, this Youth Hub will also enable peer-to-peer support and access to youth specific programs.”

The Youth Hub will provide inclusive services and activities for youth ages 14 to 29, offering access to recreation programs, social services support, mental health supports, health and wellness programs, employment and career services, youth leadership and professional

development, and other programming. The Hub features leading-edge technology, including a green screen for multiple programming opportunities, such as recording music, vocals, music composition, DJ opportunities, and more. The space also consists of an eSports area that includes multiple monitors for individual or group play. “We are thankful to Sheridan College for sponsoring our eSports space, which is a free and low-cost program for our youth in Brampton to enjoy,” said Councillor Santos. “It is important that we are not only providing our youth with the most up-to-date amenities where they can connect with each other, but also with a space where they can access resources under one roof.” The Susan Fennell Sportsplex Youth Hub is part of the city’s efforts to provide Brampton’s youth with improved access to resources and programming. Santos has also launched a Youth Council and continues to advocate for youth mental health support . Among other initiatives, the City of Brampton is continuing its Explore Brampton Youth Pass again this year and work is already underway to develop a second youth hub, the Century Gardens Youth Hub, anticipated to open in Fall 2024. “There are many opportunities for our youth to stay active and participate in the city. We are increasing access and need to get the word out there. It takes a village to support the success and future of our youth. Brampton is one of the youngest cities in the country and we are committed to providing that support. The opening of this youth hub is just one example,” concluded Santos.

B.C: TEACHER BHUPINDER SINGH SONU, 40 CHARGED WITH SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING KIDS

A 40-year-old Sikh priest and teacher has been charged with six counts of sexual offences involving children in Canada's British Columbia province, a media report said citing prosecutors.

Bhupinder Singh Sonu, who made his first appearance at Surrey Provincial Court on Tuesday, has been charged with three counts each of sexual interference and sexual exploitation involving three different victims, the OMNI News channel reported.

Sonu, who worked as a tabla teacher and a priest at the Khalsa School of

the Fraser Valley in Langley, had come to Canada on a work permit and acquired his permanent residency two weeks ago, according to defence lawyer Gagan Nahal.

Nahal added that Sonu is no longer employed by the school.

Court documents obtained by OMNI News said that the alleged offences took place between September 2022 and February 2023.

Sonu has been released under strict bail conditions, and his next appearance in court is on May 30.

MUSICIANS UNDER THE RADAR -36 NOTABLE CANADIAN JEWISH PERFORMERS

TORONTO- What do Maureen Forrester, Rick Moranis, Steven Page (Barenaked Ladies), Paul Shaffer, Nick St. Nicholas (Steppenwolf), and William Shatner have in common?

All are highlighted in David Eisenstadt's just released book, MUSICANS UNDER THE RADAR - 36 NOTABLE CANADIAN JEWISH PERFORMERS (ADHEMAR PRESS), now available in paperback and Kindle E-readers on Amazon.ca, Amazon.com and Amazon sites the world over.

This new book highlights Canadian Jewish musicians "who in my opinion and for various reasons, have somewhat disappeared from the public eye. On first blush, a few have achieved above the radar fame in other areas of the arts, yet what will surprise readers is that these performers also have credible musical chops and credentials," he said. Witness the careers of Moranis, Shaffer and Shatner, as examples. Written from a history, not critical music perspective, Eisenstadt's musician selection criteria includes perfor mers who are Canadian (although not necessarily Canadian born), Jewish, all genres and genders, individuals as performers or in groups, alive or having passed on.

Some of the other notable artists covered include:

* Batsheva - Folksinger

* Boris Brott - Classical Music Conductor

* David Buchbinder - Jazz & Klezmer Trumpeter

* Paul Brodie - Saxophonist, Educator

* Socalled (Josh Dolgin) - Rapper, Pianist, Composer, Puppeteer

* Hyman Goodman - Violinist

* Brian Katz - Guitarist, Composer, Improvisor, Educator

* Jeanne Lamon - Leader of Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra

* Ruth Lowe - Songwriter (for Frank Sinatra)

* Corky Laing - Drummer (Mountain)

* Jens Lindemann - Classical & Jazz Trumpeter

* Lorne Lofsky - Jazz Guitarist, Educator

* Rosalie Moscoe - Children's Music Entertainer, Songwriter

* Cantor Charles Osborne - Tenor, Jewish Music Composer

* Bernie Senensky - Jazz Pianist/Organist (Moe Koffman's long-time colleague)

* Theresa Tova - Singer, Actor, Playwright, Industry Activist

* Nikki Yanofsky - Jazz & Pop Singer, Composer

Why 36? "Jewish tradition holds that the number 36 has had special significance since the beginning of time. Mathematically 36 is double 18, which means 'life' ... and what started for me as a hobby during COVID19 continues as a journey of learning and my experience writing historical articles and books has more than doubly enriched my life", Eisenstadt explained. "I expect the book to find its way and be available in bookstores, initially in the Greater Toronto area including Indigo, TYPE Books and Book City locations, he added.

His first book, also available in paperback and E-kindle readers on Amazon.ca and other Amazon sites, UNDER THE RADAR - 30 NOTABLE

CANADIAN JEWISH MUSICIANS (undertheradarbook.com) was published by BARONEL BOOKS and released in November 2021. Featured musicians in that book include Corey Hart, Marc Jordan, Moe Koffman, Danny Marks, The Diamonds/Stan Fisher-Phil Levitt, Sharon, Lois & Bram, Amy Sky, The Travellers/Jerry Gray and ZalYanovsky/Lovin' Spoonful, among others. Eisenstadt expects he'll be speaking about his latest work to Canadian and US community groups, synagogues /temples, university music departments, and news media as he continues to do so with his first book. For bookings, he can be reached - deisenstadt@tcgpr.com or by cell, 416-561-5751.

FEEDING WILDLIFE IS PROHIBITED ON BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PROPERTY IN OAKVILLE

On April 24, Town Council approved an amendment to the Lot Maintenance By-law prohibiting feeding wildlife and leaving food out to attract animals. Feeding wildlife may seem harmless, however it can have serious impacts on both animals and the community. Problems that could arise include: conditioning animals to expect food from people or be dependent on people as a food source attracting unwanted species to a property animals losing their natural fear of humans increased public health concerns from the spread of disease and increased rodent activity and infestation negative interactions with pets and humans animals falling ill because the artificial food sources is not healthy for wildlife Feeding songbirds or hummingbirds will still be allowed provided the bird feeder is kept tidy and food spillage is removed so it doesn’t attract other wildlife. There are other exceptions, including allowing licensed trappers, authorized wildlife or pest control agencies or their employees, to leave food as bait as part of their work. For a full list, review the Lot Maintenance By-law Update Report and Appendix A.

Issuing fines to curb direct or indirect feeding

The Lot Maintenance By-law, together with the Parks By-law and Property Standards By-law, bans feeding wildlife, direct and indirect, and leaving

TORONTO POLICE ARREST STEWART MILLET, 18 IN ROOFING SCAM

MISSISSAUGA: The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe that a Toronto Police Service officer committed criminal offences against a woman on May 19, 2022. Director Martino has caused charges to be laid against the officer. The police service notified the SIU of the incident on June 29, 2022, and the Unit launched an investigation.

As a result of the SIU investigation, Constable Ramdial Lokenath is charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of breach of trust, contrary to sections 271 and 122 of the Criminal Code, respectively. Cst Lokenath is required to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at 10 Armoury Street in Toronto on May 31, 2023. As the matter is before the courts, and in consideration of the fair trial interests of the accused, the SIU will not provide further comment on the investigation. The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (police officers as well as special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation depending on the evidence, cause a criminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid publicly report the results of its investigations.

ALI AHMED FROM TORONTO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH INDECENT ACT INVESTIGATION

REGION OF PEEL – Investigators from the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau have charged a 28-year-old man in an Indecent Act investigation in Mississauga.

On Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 12:33 p.m., police received a call that a man was exposing himself on the grounds of a school in the area of Cliff Road and Queensway East in Mississauga.

Ali Ahmed from Toronto is charged with one count of Indecent Act in a Public Place and was currently on charge for the same offence at the time of his arrest.

He was held for a bail hearing and appeared at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.

To view a photo of Ali Ahmed, please visit our website.

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-2121 extension 1233. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca

For media inquiries, please contact the on-duty Public and Media Relations Officer at 905-453-2121, extension 4027.

SACHIT MEHRA ELECTED NEW LIBERAL PARTY PRESIDENT

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food out to attract animals across Oakville on both public and private property. If a person is found violating these rules, officers can issue a ticket, fining people between $300-$500. The town also has the ability to issue a court summons for more serious offenses and repeat offenders. The town recommends that residents and property owners keep their property tidy, removing all water and food sources from one’s yard, including birdseed and ripe/rotted fruit that has fallen to the ground and storing garbage, compost and pet food in a place where wildlife cannot access it. Remove long grass, dead brush and wood piles as well. To learn more about the ban, visit the Wildlife and You page on oakville.ca.

Most Canadians Planning Summer Road Trips Despite Inflation and Gas Price Concerns

TORONTO- Despite the financial challenges posed by inflation and high gas prices, a significant majority of Canadians remain determined to embark on road trips this summer. Conducted among members of the Angus Reid Forum, the 2023 edition of the annual Toyota Canada Summer Road Trip Survey found 74% of those polled are still planning a road trip, but fuel efficiency and other ways to cut costs are very much top of mind this year.

Cost-cutting and affordability are top of mind

Of those who are planning a road trip this summer, 43% say rising gas prices have impacted their plans. And, while very few (8%) have outright cancelled their trips as a result, most (35%) will be taking action to cut their costs.

“It’s evident that road trips are still an important part of summer for many Canadians,” said Stephen Beatty, Vice President, Corporate at Toyota Canada. “But, with so many feeling the pressure of high inflation and increased gas prices right now, we’re seeing an increased focus on the affordability of those road trips.” According to the survey, 51% of travellers will be looking for less expensive accommodations, 47% will be planning fewer restaurant dining occasions, 31% will be travelling a shorter distance, 30% will be spending fewer days on the road than originally planned, and 26% will be visiting fewer attractions.

Looking for better fuel efficiency, but not yet ready for fully electric road trips

Among Canadians planning a road trip this summer, 38% rank fuel efficiency as the single-most important vehicle feature (vehicle safety features and cargo space – at 13% each - are also considerations). At the same time, however, 78% of Canadians admitted they’d be worried about going on a longer road trip in a fully electric / battery electric vehicle.

“Canadians clearly want choice when it comes to fuel efficient vehicles,” said Beatty. “While battery electric vehicles can be great options for those who can afford them and have somewhere to charge them, it’s clear that we also need to provide Canadian drivers with other, more affordable options that will not only help them reduce their carbon emissions, but also meet their budgets and needs.”

He noted that hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and other yet-to-come technologies will all play important roles in reducing Canada’s overall carbon emissions. Weekends trips most popular, with a focus on family and relaxation

Despite the challenges posed by inflation and high gas prices, many travellers hope to kick back and feel relaxed (71%), safe (54%) and adventurous (44%) on their road trips this summer. A weekend or long weekend getaway is, by far, the most common type of trip being planned (67%), with about half of the respondents intending to drive less than 10 hours in total. A small, but hearty, group (15%) plan to drive for three days or more on their journey. When it comes to who they plan to travel with this summer, family members

(80%) are the number one choice as road trip companions. Others will be taking friends (34%), pets (17%), and co-workers (3%) with them. Some regional points of interest include:

More journeys may begin in Saskatchewan with 86% of residents from that province saying they’ll be taking a road trip this summer. Albertans plan to rest easy - and economically - with 60% of travellers looking to spend less on accommodations to offset the effects of inflation. Family vacations are top priority to travellers in Atlantic Canada and Alberta, with 89% and 84%, respectively, planning to travel with family. Only about two-thirds (64%) of Manitobans are planning to take a road trip this summer, significantly less than the national average (74%) and far below neighbouring Saskatchewan (86%). For media inquiries, including interview opportunities and highresolution images, contact: Randi-Lynn Paul (rpaul@casacom.ca).

About the Study These are the findings of a survey commissioned by Toyota Canada among members of the Angus Reid Forum. It was conducted from April 5-10, 2023 among a nationally representative sample of n=1,512 Canadian adults (18+), balanced and weighted on age, gender, region and education. For comparison purposes only, a sample of this size would yield a margin of error of +/- 2.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. The survey was offered in both English and French.

About The Angus Reid Group

Angus Reid is Canada’s most well-known and respected name in opinion and market research data. Offering a variety of research solutions to businesses, brands, governments, not-for-profit organizations and more, the Angus Reid team connects technologies and people to derive powerful insights that inform your decisions.

Data is collected through a suite of tools utilizing the latest technologies. Prime among that is the Angus Reid Forum, an opinion community consisting of engaged residents across the country who answer surveys on topical issues that matter to all Canadians.

About Toyota Canada Inc.

Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) is the exclusive Canadian distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Toyota has sold over six million vehicles in Canada through a national network of 288 Toyota and Lexus dealerships. Toyota is dedicated to bringing safety, quality, dependability and reliability to the vehicles Canadians drive and the service they receive. TCI’s head office is in Toronto, with regional offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Halifax, and parts distribution centres in Clarington and Vancouver.

He defeated party vice-president Mira Ahmad and will replace Suzanne Cowan. Following the announcement of the election result, Mehra tweeted, "This National Liberal Convention has been an amazing moment as a Party and as a team. I am honoured to serve as your President."

Mehra is from the city of Winnipeg in the province of Manitoba. He has roots in New Delhi, as his father moved from the Indian capital to study in Canada in the 1960s. Mehra is a businessman, as his family runs the East India Restaurants Company which has a presence in Winnipeg and Ottawa. Mehra announced his intent to contest for the party post in October last year, and touted his experience as having served as chair of the Federal Liberal Agency of Canada, president of the Liberal Party of Canada (Manitoba) and the President of the Young Liberals of Canada. Mehra described himself as "a community builder, business owner, manager, dad, husband and, a proud Liberal member, donor and volunteer from the prairies for over 32 years." Mehra was also part of a fundraising effort in the spring of 2021 to deliver oxygenators to India as the devastating Delta wave of the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country. Mehra lists the Indian languages of Hindi and Punjabi as those he is conversant with. Mehra will be heading the party organisation when the next Federal elections are held in 2025, ten years since Trudeau swept into power.

KING CHARLES III, QUEEN CAMILLA CROWNED AT WESTMINSTER ABEY IN LONDON

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Later, Camilla, the Queen Consort, was crowned with Queen Mary's Crown. About 2,200 people, including the Royal Family, celebrities, faith leaders and heads of state, were present inside the Abbey to witness the event. Currently, cornoation procession of King Charles III and Queen Camilla is heading back to Buckingham Palace. After returning to Buckingham Palace, the King, Queen and British royals will make a traditional appearance on the balcony. The coronation ceremony was attended by the Duke of Sussex without his wife Meghan Markle.

NEW INSIGHTS FROM PEEL REGION’S 2022 WORKFORCE CENSUS

BRAMPTON, ON – Peel Region has completed its second workforce census. Questions focused on demographic data and employee sentiments (feelings) about diversity, equity, inclusion and health, safety, and wellness at Peel Region. 55 percent of employees participated in the survey, up 5 percent since the inaugural 2020 workforce census. This overall response rate is consistent with other public service organizations. Building on the 2020 workforce census, results show diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) scores have increased across the organization and reported incidents of discrimination and harassment are lower than 2020. While results show signs of progress, many employees experience the organization differently depending on their diversity.

DAVID EISENSTADT LAUNCHES SECOND MUSIC HISTORY BOOK

India taking down Pakistan at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet is indicative of changing diplomatic might of India. India will not stick to fake goody words any longer. It signals Pakistan about the need to do more to shed the tag of being a global headache on terrorism.

Coming soon after the recent Shanghai Cooperation Council's (SCO) Defence Ministers' Summit in New Delhi, India last week hosted the Foreign Ministers of the SCO at Goa.

The common thread between these two summits was the tough posturing by India against its two neighbours Pakistan and China.

At the Goa meeting, India's External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar, revealed that India had twice called out China and Pakistan at the summit for violating India's sovereignty through their connectivity projects. The statement was made in response to a question on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which runs through Indian territory currently under Pakistan's illegal occupation.

Earlier, India had sort of reprimanded the Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu at the New Delhi meeting, on the issue of the stalled talks over the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India's critique of Pakistan

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was in Goa to represent Pakistan at the SCO-CFM. A visit, which happened after a 12-year gap. The last Pakistani Foreign Minister to visit India was Hina Rabbani Khar, when she met her Indian counterpart S.M. Krishna in Delhi in 2011. However, what soured the atmosphere this time in Goa, was references made by Zardari over Kashmir and Pakistan being a victim of terrorism itself. Though he also called for reviving the stalled talks.

India, in a strongly worded response to Pakistan's overtures for talks, said victims of terrorism do not sit together with perpetrators of terrorism to discuss terror.

Rebutting each of the points made by Zardari, EAM Jaishankar said he (Zardari) was "a promoter, justifier and spokesperson for a terrorism industry which is the mainstay of Pakistan. The tough Indian response came after the news of death of five Indian Army soldiers in a terrorist attack near the Line of Control (LoC) on Friday".

Jaishankar said Bilawal's suggestion to sit together and talk was "hypocritical" and said India was feeling "outraged" by the incident. India's stand on China

Jaishankar had a similar position on China whose readout on the bilateral between him and its Foreign Minister Qin Gang described the situation on the boundary as stable.

Jaishankar said that there is an abnormal position in the border areas. "We have to take the disengagement process forward. I have made it very clear. India-

China relations will not be normal if peace and tranquillity in the border areas is disturbed. This message was on the same lines as delivered by the Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu, a fortnight ago."

Responding to Zardari's diatribe, Jaishankar said Bilawal's opposition to a G-20 meeting to be held in Kashmir had no basis since Pakistan was

JAISHANKAR SAID THAT THERE IS AN ABNORMAL POSITION IN THE BORDER AREAS. "WE HAVE TO TAKE THE DISENGAGEMENT PROCESS FORWARD. I HAVE MADE IT VERY CLEAR. INDIACHINA RELATIONS WILL NOT BE NORMAL IF PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY IN THE BORDER AREAS IS DISTURBED. THIS MESSAGE WAS ON THE SAME LINES AS DELIVERED BY THE INDIAN DEFENCE MINISTER RAJNATH SINGH TO HIS CHINESE COUNTERPART LI SHANGFU, A FORTNIGHT AGO."

RESPONDING TO ZARDARI'S DIATRIBE, JAISHANKAR SAID BILAWAL'S OPPOSITION TO A G-20 MEETING TO BE HELD IN KASHMIR HAD NO BASIS SINCE PAKISTAN WAS NOT EVEN A MEMBER OF THAT GROUPING. ON BILAWAL'S OPENING ADDRESS AT THE SCO CONFERENCE WHERE HE SAID THE ISSUE OF TERRORISM SHOULD NOT BE USED TO SCORE DIPLOMATIC POINTS, THE MINISTER SAID: "WE ARE NOT SCORING DIPLOMATIC POINTS. WE ARE EXPOSING PAKISTAN. AS A VICTIM OF TERRORISM, WE ARE AUTHORISED TO DO SO. WE HAVE PUT UP WITH IT. IT SPEAKS SO MUCH ABOUT THE MINDSET OF THAT COUNTRY."

not even a member of that grouping.

On Bilawal's opening address at the SCO conference where he said the issue of terrorism should not be used to score diplomatic points, the Minister said: "We are not scoring diplomatic points. We are exposing Pakistan. As a victim of terrorism, we are authorised to do so. We have put up with it. It speaks so much about the mindset of that country."

He asked Pakistan to "smell the coffee" regarding its grouse about the abrogation of Article 370 as a violation of international agreements.

"370 is history. Sooner the people realise it, the better," Jaishankar said.

Indian response to CPEC

EAM Jaishankar also took an exception at the mention of CPEC at the SCO meeting, both by Pakistan and China. And rightly so, as SCO is a multilateral forum, not a bilateral one and further India's adversarial stand on the CPEC has been very clear from the beginning, as it passed through the PoK. India has consistently opposed the Belt and Road Initiative and CPEC, as these projects violate India's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Jaishankar very clearly stated that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.

Bilawal's overture

On his part Bilawal Bhutto Zardari blamed India's Kashmir policy for the "frozen peace" between India and Pakistan. The India-Pakistan relationship soured significantly after India announced the withdrawal of special powers from Jammu and Kashmir and the division of the state into two union territories in August 2019.

India has always maintained that it wants regular neighbourly ties with

Pakistan while emphasising that the onus is on Islamabad to create a safe environment for such an engagement.

The tough Indian response to both Pakistan and China, mainly stems from its exhaustion with its neighbours, who in spite of several Indian initiatives to better relations, prefer to stick with their age-old stands on the contentious issues, preferring not to respond positively to any Indian efforts in this regard.

The SCO meet also showed yet again that body language speaks volumes in geopolitics and diplomacy. The distance between the two foreign ministers while posing for photographs was noticeably gaping. However, the cold Indian demeanour, a departure from customary diplomatic niceties, and continuing with its old parroting by the Pakistani Minister were more targeted at their respective domestic audiences. The Indian leadership in view of the forthcoming elections in Karnataka wanted to be seen as acting tough, while the Pakistani Minister wanted to showcase his ability to rake-up old issues in the backdrop of the economic woes of Pakistan.

But overall this posturing does not augurs well for friendly relations between the neighbours in the foreseeable future.

OTTAWA PLEDGES $390M TO TACKLE GUN, GANG VIOLENCE

Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That's why the Government of Canada has a comprehensive plan that gets guns off our streets and resources into our neighbourhoods. A central part of this involves adding resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. The Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Marco Mendicino, today announced that the Government of Canada will be investing $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts. The Government will provide this funding over the next five years to provinces and territories to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs.

This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence (ITAAGGV), announced in 2017. ITAAAGGV funding has been used by provinces to for an array of important efforts to combat gun and gang violence. Quebec has used it for Operation Centaur, a provincewide initiative that reinforces police with specialized units, disrupts firearms trafficking and prevents crime. In British Columbia, funding supports the Organized Crime Agency of British Columbia, a dedicated police agency to fight gun smuggling, drug trafficking and other forms of organized crime. No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun crime on its own. ITAAGGV is one of many elements in the government's plan to keep Canadians safe. This begins with strong borders, where the government has invested nearly half a billion dollars in border security and deepened cooperation with the Untied States to fight gun smuggling. It also includes legislation, headlined by Bill C-21, the government's strongest legislation combatting gun violence, and upcoming bail reform. Finally, it involves strong prevention strategies, such as the major investments announced today.

QUOTES

"The safety and security of Canadians is our government's top priority. The best way to keep people safe is to stop crime and violence before it starts. Today's announcement will give additional resources to law enforcement, support young people in making good choices and help our communities thrive. Strong prevention strategies like these are central pillar in our plan to ensure Canadians are safe in their communities."

- The Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety

"I want to thank the Minister of Public Safety Canada and Ontario's Solicitor General for their commitment to combatting guns and gang, a priority for police services across Ontario. Today's announcement is a significant investment in a continuing, comprehensive and collaborative approach to addressing and reducing gun and gang violence by providing the resources required to investigate and hold accountable those that victimize our communities."

- Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police, President, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) "Gang violence is increasing, and we are working with our federal partners to put criminals behind bars. Our financial contribution of nearly $15 million this year to the Guns and Gangs Violence Reduction Strategy, on top of the federal government's continued support announced today, will have a direct impact on reducing gang activity. Our investment will support a guns-andgangs joint-forces operation across multiple jurisdictions, as well as a provincial guns-and-gangs support unit to assist with investigations and prosecutions."

- The Honourable Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario

WATERMAIN AND SANITARY SEWER REPLACEMENT, ROAD REPAIRS AND RESURFACING ON MAIN ST. SOUTH, DOWNTOWN BRAMPTON

BRAMPTON- Peel Region has been working in downtown Brampton to replace the aging watermain and sanitary sewer along Queen St. to maintain and improve existing water and wastewater services.

At this stage in the project, we are replacing the watermain and sanitary sewer under Main St. South. This work is starting Wednesday May 10, 2023, and will last for approximately three months, depending on weather and soil conditions. Please expect delays and choose alternate routes if possible.

Traffic impacts:

* Northbound Main St. South closed to all through traffic from Wellington St. to Queen St. A detour route will be clearly marked with road signs.

Pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained. No through traffic will be allowed and there will be no on-street parking.

* Southbound Main St. South will remain open but reduced to one lane from just north of Queen St. to Wellington St.

* We will dig a temporary trench on Main St. South from Wellington St to Queen St. For this reason, it will not be possible to turn left (east) from Main St. South onto Wellington St. East.

* The current one-way traffic on John St. will be converted to two-way traffic that can be accessible from Chapel St. The loading zones on John St. will be removed and additional loading zones/short term parking will be added to Queen St. for businesses.

* Detour routes may be adjusted for upcoming special events in the summer. Emergency service vehicles will be permitted to cross through the closure with guidance from the onsite contractor.

INDO-CANADIAN SIKH POET RUPI KAUR’S BOOK AMONG MOST BANNED IN US SCHOOLS

A Canadian-Sikh poet, whose Twitter account was withheld in India last month over the Khalistan issue, now has her debut work among the 11 most banned books in the US classrooms for the first half of the 2022-23 school year. Rupi Kaur’s ‘Milk and Honey’, which released in 2014, was banned for exploring issues of sexual assault and violence, according to data provided by non-profit PEN America.

The book, banned in multiple districts in Missouri this year, tied in ninth place with Toni Morrison’s ‘The Bluest Eye’, according to the report. Both books were reportedly banned in 10 districts in the first half of this school year alone. “It deeply concerns me that there is a group of people hell bent on taking away literature that students find refuge in,” Punjab-born Kaur wrote in an Instagram post last week. Apart from violene, the rest of the titles in the list discussed race and racism, LGBTQ+ characters, grief or death, student health and well-being, and teen pregnancy, abortion or sexual assault.

“Parents want to ban books to protect their kids but teachers and librarians say that students are old enough to be aware of the topics discussed in these books. Many actually seek these books out because they’re going through those experiences themselves,” she wrote. Kaur’s work encompasses love, loss, trauma, healing, femininity, and migration. “I remember sitting in my school library in high school, turning to books about sexual assault because I didn’t have anyone else to turn to. This is the reality for many students,” she said in her post.

CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL TRADE DROPS IN MARCH

OTTAWA: Canada's merchandise imports and exports were down in March, Statistics Canada said on Thursday.

The country's total monthly imports of goods decreased 2.9 percent from February to 62.6 billion Canadian dollars (46.3 billion U.S. dollars), and total exports of goods were down 0.7 percent to 63.6 billion Canadian dollars (47.1 billion U.S. dollars), the national statistical agency said.

Imports of consumer goods decreased 11 percent in March, mainly because of lower imports of pharmaceutical products. In February, large quantities of drugs unrelated to COVID-19 were imported, and these shipments did not repeat in March, causing a sharp drop for the month. Most notable export declines were observed in energy products, mainly because of lower exports of crude oil. While this was mostly the result of lower prices, crude oil export volumes also decreased in March.

According to the agency, exports of services were up 0.2 percent to 14 billion Canadian dollars (10.4 billion U.S. dollars), as an increase in commercial services was moderated by a decline in travel services. Imports edged up 0.1 percent to 16 billion Canadian dollars (11.8 billion U.S. dollars), reflecting higher commercial services, which was partially offset by lower transportation services. Canada's total exports were down 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2023, mainly because of lower prices. Meanwhile, quarterly imports edged down 0.2 percent. However, in real terms, quarterly exports increased 3.5 percent, while imports decreased 0.4 percent, Statistics Canada said.

SIU CHARGES TORONTO POLICE OFFICER IN ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT

MISSISSAUGA: The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe that a Toronto Police Service officer committed criminal offences against a woman on May 19, 2022. Director Martino has caused charges to be laid against the officer. The police service notified the SIU of the incident on June 29, 2022, and the Unit launched an investigation.

As a result of the SIU investigation, Constable Ramdial Lokenath is charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of breach of trust, contrary to sections 271 and 122 of the Criminal Code, respectively. Cst Lokenath is required to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at 10 Armoury Street in Toronto on May 31, 2023. As the matter is before the courts, and in consideration of the fair trial interests of the accused, the SIU will not provide further comment on the investigation.

“We all find comfort in literature that reflects our experiences. now that books about sexual assault and other topics are being banned — I worry for students who rely on school libraries for access to literature.”

This isn’t the first time Kaur responded to her book being banned. She commented on Instagram about a ban that went into effect in two states last year, according to NBC News.

“Over the last few months parts of Texas and Oregon have banned or attempted to ban ‘Milk and Honey’ from schools and libraries. Why?

Because it explores sexual assault and violence experienced by a young woman,” she wrote.

The award-winning poet immigrated to Canada at age four with her Sikh parents and grew up in a suburb of Toronto.

The Sun and her Flowers (2017) and Home Body (2020) are among the other titles that Kaur has written.

These collections have sold over 11 million copies and have been translated into over 43 languages, with Milk and Honey surpassing Homer’s Odyssey as the best-selling poetry of all time, according to Kaur’s website.

She was also regarded as “writer of the decade” by the New Republic and recognised on the Forbes 30 under 30 list. In 2022, Kaur released her fourth book, ‘Healing Through Word’. However, there have been plagiarism allegations on Kaur, saying she stole her poetry style and content from Nayyirah Waheed and Pavana Reddy.

COUNCIL APPROVES 2023 TAX LEVY BYLAW

BURLINGTON: Burlington City Council approved the 2023 Tax Levy Bylaw at its meeting on May 4, 2023.

The bylaw allows the city to bill 2023 property taxes and set payment due dates for final tax bills on June 21 and Sept. 21, 2023. Final tax bills will be mailed in late May. The City of Burlington collects taxes for the city, Halton Region, and the Halton district school boards. For each residential dollar collected, 48.9 per cent stays in the city, 33.3 per cent goes to Halton Region and 17.8 per cent goes to the Halton district school boards.

Property tax payments can be made:

* by cheque and debit at the Service Burlington counter, temporarily located at 390 Brant St. on the third floor

* at your financial institution in person, by telephone, or online

* by placing a cheque in the City's blue deposit box outside 390 Brant St. at the Elgin Street entrance, across from City Hall

The City offers pre-authorized payment plans. Residents can apply for this option. Pre-authorized payments can help distribute property tax payments over several additional months during the tax year. For more information please visit burlington.ca/propertytax.

The City also provides several property tax rebate programs, together with Halton Region. These include charity rebates, heritage rebates, the Older Adult Property Tax Deferral Program, and the Low-Income Seniors Rebate program. Please visit burlington.ca/propertytax to see if you qualify.

Burlington is a city where people, nature and businesses thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and follow @CityBurlington on social media.

Quick Facts

* The City of Burlington collects property taxes for the city, Halton Region, and the Halton district school boards. The total combined tax levy for all three organizations is approximately $486.1 million. The city's levy is $219.2 million. The city collects $150.1 million on behalf of Halton Region and $116.8 million on behalf of the Halton district school boards. The taxes levied for Halton Region and the Halton district school boards are sent to them.

The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (police officers as well as special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation depending on the evidence, cause a c riminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid publicly report the results of its investigations

General Accounting & Bookkeeping

SURJAN SINGH CHATHA ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH SANDEEP NANGAL AMBIAN'S MURDER

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Despite several arrests in the case, Chatha had not been held. Ambiyan's wife Rupinder Kaur had been repeatedly seeking his arrest.

Chairman of the North India Circle Style Kabaddi Association, Chatha had been named in the Ambiyan case months after the original FIR was lodged, along with two more kabaddi association heads.

Ambiyan was shot dead at a kabaddi tournament at Mallian Khurd village in Nakodar on March 14, 2022. Rivalry between kabaddi associations was said to be the r eason behind the murder.

KAMALJIT KANG PRESIDENT KABADDI FEDERATION CANADA SHOT & INJURED OUTSIDE HIS HOUSE IN SURREY, BC

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KARNATAKA POLLS: KEJRIWAL'S ABSENCE DISAPPOINTS AAP CADRES

The absence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in Karnataka in the run-up to the May 10 Assembly elections has disappointed the party cadres. It was also disheartening for the party supporters as they were expecting his presence in the state on May 8 -- the last day of poll campaigning.

The AAP has been trying to make its mark in Karnataka after forming governments in Delhi and Punjab. The party was looking to bag seats in Bengaluru and urban centres in Karnataka.

Some people had even predicted that the AAP would prove to be a formidable opponent to the BJP.

Kejriwal, the man who propelled AAP to power in the Delhi Assembly, and managed to put the party in power in Punjab, was expected to carry out an aggressive election campaign in Karnataka, especially when BJP heavyweights such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached almost every corner of the state and carried out an intensified election campaigning.

AAP leaders claimed that "BJP's highhandedness and vindictive politics have restrained and forced Kejriwal from taking up extensive campaigning

in Karnataka". Talking to IANS, Mohan Dasari, AAP Bengaluru City Working President, who is contesting from the C.V. Ramannagar seat in Bengaluru, said "the vendetta politics by the BJP against AAP has restrained Kejriwal from entering the Karnataka election campaign".

"Kejriwal had come in the month of April. The party's national leaders Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and other ministers of the AAP also visited Karnataka. The elections are being taken seriously. Otherwise, no one would have come," he said.

"Our leader Manish Sisodia is in jail due to false cases. When no excise policy was implemented, where was the corruption?" he questioned. Dasari further said that Kejriwal showed how government hospitals and mohalla clinics can change the lives of middle class people and the poor class. "Since they were doing good work and the entire country was appreciative, they put these people behind bars with false cases," he said.

"This election is being contested over local issues. People want a change. They were looking at good governance, good hospitals and homes for all, and we are working towards that," Dasari said.

AMIT SHAH'S VISIT TO ASSAM POSTPONED DUE TO MANIPUR VIOLENCE

In the wake of Manipur violence, Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to Assam scheduled on May 11 has been postponed, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Monday.

Shah was supposed to attend a grand celebration of two years of completion of the Sarma-led government in Assam on Thursday.

However, the visit has been rescheduled to May 26, said Sarma. Addressing media persons here, he said, "Union Home Minister called me up in the morning and informed about the change in his schedule due to ongoing violence in Manipur."

In the run-up to the 2021 Assam Assembly election, Sarma promised that if BJP returns to power in the state, 1 lakh jobs would be given to unemployed youths of the state within a year.

Though the state government has already provided around 50,000 jobs in the last two years, the target of 1 lakh jobs is yet to be completed. Sarma said that recruitment procedures for another 45,000 posts are completed and the appointment letters will be distributed by Amit Shah on May 26.

CONGRESS LEADER AND STAR BOXER VIJENDER SINGH CONDEMNS POLICE ACTION AGAINST WRESTLERS, DEMANDS COURT-MONITORED PROBE

A day after the Delhi Police allegedly manhandled the protesting wrestlers here, the Congress on Thursday slammed the BJP government saying it was doing injustice to the players who brought laurels to the country and demanded a court monitored probe.

"The kind of injustice meted out to the wrestlers last night, I as a player stand in solidarity with them and I hope that justice is delivered," Congress leader and star boxer Vijender Singh said addressing a press conference at the party headquarters.

"If wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have to face such a situation then we can imagine what kind of situation common people have to face," he said.

"My question to the government is that on whose instructions such behaviour was resorted to with the star wrestlers. We demand justice for the wrestlers and what action has been taken for such behaviour," Singh, who contested unsuccessfully in the 2019 Lok Sabha election from south Delhi, said. His remarks came hours after the protesting wrestlers alleged manhandling by the Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday night, where they have been staging a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is also a BJP Lok Sabha MP from Uttar Pradesh, alleging molestation and sexual harassment. The alleged manhandling by the Delhi Police led to injuries to some wrestlers who have been sitting on protest for the last 13 days at Jantar Mantar. Meanwhile, Congress leader Amrita Dhawan also slammed the government and said what the Delhi Police did last night has crossed all limits and the country needs to decide if it wants medal winners or

those who harass the players. "These women wrestlers have won medals and brought laurels to the country and they have been sitting on protest at Jantar Mantar for almost the last two weeks. But sadly the BJP has a record of sheltering people with criminal records and question the women who made complaints against them. These wrestlers are not ordinary complainants but are world champions who have won medals for the country. When they win medals the Prime Minister calls them for a photoshoot, And the same wrestlers were made to cry at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday night," Dhawan said. What happened last night was shocking and one could not have imagined such an incident in the national capital, she added.

SUKHBIR BADAL SEEKS FORGIVENESS FOR 'MISTAKES' AT REMEMBRANCE OF FATHER

In an emotional but befitting homage to the late Parkash Singh Badal at the massively-attended Antim Ardas for the patriarch's departed soul, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal on Thursday sought to reach out to the people, especially the devout Sikhs, seeking forgiveness for "whatever mistakes may have been committed, inadvertently or otherwise in the past". "I and my family owe an irrepayable debt of gratitude to the Panth and Punjabis across the world for the overflowing love and support we have received during these tough days filling me with boundless humility.

"This sacred bond with the Sangat tells me to seek forgiveness for whatever mistakes may ever have been committed at any time in the past by me, my party or anyone in our family," he said.

"The Sangat has always been and shall always remain supreme for us, and we always trust and submit to the highest grace of the great Guru Sahiban and Shri Guru Granth Sahib," Badal added, stressing the need to uphold the values his father worked day and night to uphold. The Akali Dal President choked several times, overcome by grief. "I know I am hardly worthy of the unmatched and historic elegance of the legacy of Badal Sahib but I give you this solemn and sacred 'vachan' (commitment) that every minute and every breath of my life, I will dedicate myself to earning and deserving this legacy."

In what appeared to be a symphony of ideological and religious touch to politics, the Akali President's speech was marked by repeated reference to "Khalsa Panth, Panthic values, Punjab, Punjabiat and nationalism". Meanwhile, a sea of humanity streamed into Badal village in Muktsar district in lakhs to pay their last respects to five times Chief Minister. Thousands walked several kilometers to pay homage to the son of the soil.

Hailing from the Uggi village in Jalandhar, Kang has been living in Canada for the past over 20 years.

Sources revealed that Kang's Kabaddi related affairs were primarily based in Canada. His shooting comes just a day after another key Kabaddi promoter Surjan Singh Chatha's arrest for the murder of Kabaddi player Sandeep Singh Nangal Ambiyan.

KHALISTANI LEADER PARAMJIT PANJWAR SHOT DEAD IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN

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Hailing from Punjab's Tarn Taran district, Panjwar, 63, was heading the banned Khalistan Commando Force-Panjwar group and was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and other terror activities when he was designated as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in July 2020. Panjwar was accused of being the "mastermind" behind the 1999 bomb blast in Chandigarh's Sector 34. He was wanted in several cases in India's Punjab. According to police, he was actively involved in the smuggling of drugs in the state. Though he was inactive for the last couple of years, Singh had been operating from Lahore and was involved in arranging arms training for youths in Pakistan. He was engaged in supplying arms and ammunition and subsequent infiltration into India for targeting VIPs and economic installations. He was also involved in broadcasting highly seditious and separatist programs on Radio Pakistan, intended to incite minorities against the Indian government. He was active in the smuggling of drugs and was a major conduit between smugglers and terrorists, the Ministry of Home Affairs had said in a notification that designated him a terrorist under UAPA

INDIA SLAMS PAKISTAN ON TERRORISM

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Jaishankar said, "As a Foreign Minister of an SCO member state, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was treated accordingly. As a promoter, justifier... But I am sorry to say that as a spokesperson of a terror industry which is the mainstay of Pakistan, his positions were called out and countered, including at the SCO meeting."

When asked whether India and Pakistan should sit together on the issue of terrorism, Jaishankar said, "Victims of terrorism do not sit together with the perpetrators of terrorism to discuss terrorism. Victims of terrorism defend themselves, counter the acts of terror, they call them out, and that is exactly what is happening. To come here and preach these hypocritical words as though we are on the same boat... They are committing acts of terrorism." The External Affairs Minister also said that on the matter of terrorism, Pakistan's credibility is depleting faster than its forex.

"Terrorism can't be destiny. A country which indulges in terrorism can't talk about peace in the same breath," he said.

Established in June 15, 2001 in Shanghai, the SCO originally comprised Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members subsequently.

DELHI POLICE ARRESTS 15 ASSOCIATES OF GANGSTER DEEPAK BOXER IN ONE MONTH

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Police's Special Cell has arrested 15 associates of gangster Deepak "Boxer", in the last one month, said officials on Sunday (May 7). "Boxer" was nabbed in Mexico and brought to Delhi on April 5. He was arrested by Delhi Police after deportation from Mexico.

Boxer has been interrogated by the special cell. He has been arrested in MCOCA case and brought on 14 days of police custody remand by NDR Special Cell. During the course of his lengthy interrogation, the gangster has revealed his involvement in more than two dozen cases of murder, attempt to murder and extortion.

15 associates arrested

“Accused Deepak Boxer has been interrogated at length and he disclosed his involvement in more than two dozen cases of murder, attempt to murder and extortion. During the investigation of the case, his 15 associates have been arrested,” Special Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) H G S Dhaliwal said. The associates who have been arrested are Deepak Pahal (26), Ravinder Pahal (21), Vikram Dahiya (27), Sachin Mann (30), Sandeep Narwal (32), Gavin Grang (30), Amit Gulati (31), Dinesh Mathur alias Karala (35), Kapil alias Gaurav (32), Rohit alias Moi (28), Vijay Mann alias Kapil ( 26), Yogesh alias Tunda (30), Ankesh Lakra (35), Mehfooz Khan alias Bhura (47) and Mohd. Junaid (25).

During the course of the investigation, it was revealed that Mehfooz Khan alias Bhura Dalal (47) and his associate Mohd. Junaid (25), both residents of Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, had helped gangster Deepak get a fake passport and other forged documents to flee aboard, said police.

According to the police, the duo facilitated Deepak to get fake passport and other documents in the name of Ravi Antil, a resident of Moradabad. On their instance, 15 passports, seven Aadhaar cards, seven PAN cards and six voter cards have been recovered. Role played in escape of Jitender Gogi from custody

According to the police, during his interrogation, Deepak revealed that in 2015, Deepak Bajana introduced him to gangster Jitender Maan alias Gogi, who was then evading arrest. Deepak Boxer wanted to make big name and joined the Gogi gang. After Gogi was arrested in 2016, his associates planned to get him escaped from the police custody, the official said.

AJAY MAKEN WRITES TO DELHI L-G SEEKING PROBE INTO RENOVATION AT KEJRIWAL'S RESIDENCE

A day after alleging that renovation work at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence cost Rs 171 crore and not Rs 45 crore, Congress leader Ajay Maken on Monday wrote to Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, requesting his immediate intervention to ensure that public money is not misused and to initiate a probe into the matter.

In the three-page letter to the L-G, Maken, who is a former Union minister, said, "I'm writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the extravagant expenditure, environmental damage, and violation of heritage protection and zonal plans involved in the construction of the Chief Minister's residence in Delhi."

In the letter, the Congress leader alleged that the construction of the new CM House has cost the exchequer around Rs 171 crore, including the relocation of 22 officers' bungalows, with 15 out of 22 houses adjacent to CM's house on Flagstaff Road being demolished or being vacated. He said that this figure includes around Rs 126 crore spent on purchasing 21 new Type 5 flats in CWG Village to compensate for the housing shortage.

Alleging violation of Master Plan Delhi (MPD) 2021, Maken said, "The new CM House has been constructed in the Civil Lines Old Bungalow Zone, an area protected under MPD 2021. The previous residence was a single-storey colonial-style building, which has been replaced by a threestorey structure with a basement (B+G+1+2) with a covered area of around 20,000 sq ft (almost double the previous covered area). This construction directly contradicts the MPD 2021 provisions, which aim to

preserve the heritage and character of Lutyen's Bungalow Zone and Civil Lines Old Bungalow Zone."

He also cited damage to environment due to removal of 28 full-grown trees, which contradicts the provisions of MPD 2021 that emphasise the importance of preserving green cover in these protected zones. The Congress leader alleged that work orders were seemingly split by PWD to keep them below Rs 10 crore, with the intent to avoid approval of the secretary/principal secretary, PWD (for works amounting to more than Rs 10 crore). "This was allegedly done by engineers of PWD in collusion with then PWD Minister Satyendar Jain, as required by the delegation of financial powers," he said. He also alleged lack of concurrence from the finance department, deviations in procurement procedure and circumventing municipal laws and deceiving the Legislative Assembly. "In light of these concerns, I kindly request your immediate intervention to address these issues and ensure that public money is not misused, environmental damage is minimised, and heritage protection and zonal plans are strictly adhered to in future development projects. Upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and responsible governance is crucial for the betterment of our society and for safeguarding the interests of the citizens. "I thus request you to conduct an inquiry into the above points. And if found guilty, grant sanction for prosecution of the principal beneficiary, the Chief Minister, and the principal perpetrator, then PWD Minister of GNCTD," Maken said.

NO MATTER HOW HARD BJP TRIES, DEVELOPMENT WORK WON'T STOP IN DELHI: SISODIA

Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia, who is in judicial custody for his alleged involvement in the Delhi excise policy case, said on Monday that no matter how hard the BJP tries, development work will not be stalled in the national capital. "Be it in Patparganj or other parts of Delhi, development work will not stop. No matter how hard the BJP people tries, no work will stop in Delhi," Sisodia said after coming out of the Rouse Avenue Court, which extended his judicial custody till May 23.

The court also allowed an application moved by his legal team seeking permisson for Sisodia to sign certain documents for approving the disbursement of funds for development work in his constituency (Patparganj).

The ED had arrested Sisodia on March 9 after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested him on February 26 this year in the same case.

The ED has alleged that Sisodia was the mastermind behind the entire excise policy case and that he had deliberately leaked the policy to the co-accused to generate financial kickbacks.

COURT ORDERS INQUIRY INTO BIHAR DEPUTY CM TEJASHWI YADAV'S GUJARATI 'THUG' REMARKS; NEXT HEARING ON MAY 20

AHMEDABAD: A metropolitan court in Ahmedabad on Monday ordered an inquiry into the criminal defamation complaint filed against Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav over his alleged remark that "only Gujaratis can be thugs". The complaint has been filed against the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader under Indian Penal Code sections 499 and 500 (dealing with criminal defamation). The complaint was filed by a social worker and businessman Haresh Mehta (63).

Court to examine witnesses on May 20

The court of Additional Metropolitan Magistrate DJ Parmar in Ahmedabad has ordered the inquiry under Section 202 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) before deciding on issuing summons to him. The court is likely to examine witnesses on May 20 as part of the process. The CrPC section 202 deals with inquiry for the purpose of issuing process (summons) based on material against the accused. The court will examine the authenticity of evidence in the form of a CD (compact disc) and a pen drive containing the alleged remark of Yadav submitted by the complainant, Mehta's lawyer PR Patel said. It will also examine people who heard the said remark in the next hearing slated on May 20, Patel said.

‘Only Gujaratis can be thugs’

In March, Tejashwi Yadav said the situation in the country was such that only a Gujarati can be thugs in the present situation. "Only Gujaratis can be thugs in the present situation, and their fraud (crime) will be forgiven. Who will be responsible if they run away with the money belonging to LIC or banks?" the Bihar Deputy CM had allegedly said.

His remark had come after Interpol withdrew the Red Corner Notice (RCN) against fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi.

‘Statement defames and humiliates all Gujaratis’

The complainant said the statement, calling the entire Gujarati community as "thug", was made before the media. It defames and humiliates all Gujaratis in public. A "thug" is a rogue, sly and criminal person, and such a comparison with the entire community will cause non-Gujarati people to look at Gujaratis with suspicion, Mehta said while seeking issuance of summons against Yadav and maximum punishment for him under the law.

RAJASTHAN: 'HE IS RATTLED BY REBELLION IN HIS OWN PARTY', VASUNDHARA RAJE COUNTERS ASHOK GEHLOT

Rajasthan: Former Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vasundhara Raje taking a jibe at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that he is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections, addding that his false allegations show he is rattled by the rebellion in state Congress unit. Recently, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot took a potshot at Vasundhara Raje and two other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders for having helped him save his government during the 2020 crisis when some Congress MLAs revolted and tried to topple his government. "Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has done"

Vasundhara Raje said, "Gehlot's statement against me is a conspiracy. Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has done. He is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections and has made such false allegations as he is rattled by the rebellion in his own party". Raje further said that taking and giving bribes are both crimes, if their MLAs have taken money, then FIR should be lodged. The former CM said, "Ashok Gehlot himself is the mastermind behind it. He did this in 2008 and 2018 as he was in minority.

Gehlot's statement

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has claimed that former chief minister Vasundhara Raje and two other BJP leaders helped save his government back in 2020 when Sachin Pilot and other party MLAs revolted against the government. Addressing a programme in Dholpur, Gehlot said his government could be saved because of the support of three BJP leaders -- former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, former assembly speaker Kailash Meghwal and MLA Shobharani Kushwah

A Delhi court on Monday sent four accused arrested for their alleged involvement in gangster Tillu Tajpuriya's murder inside Tihar Jail premises to four days of police custody, an official said.

Tajpuriya (33) was stabbed over 90 times to death by the assailants on May 2. The arrested accused -- Deepak (31), Yogesh (30), Rajesh (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) -- were produced via video conferencing before the Patiala House Courts.

The court remanded the four individuals to police custody till May 12. Tajpuriya, a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures on the groundfloor of Jail number 8.

Tajpuriya was an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout in which gangster Jitender Gogi was killed.

EXCISE SCAM: COURT EXTENDS SISODIA'S JUDICIAL CUSTODY TILL MAY 23

A Delhi court on Monday extended AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's judicial custody till May 23 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The ED has alleged that Sisodia was the mastermind behind the entire excise policy case and that he had deliberately leaked the policy to the co-accused to generate financial kickbacks. Sisodia is currently in judicial custody.

The ED had arrested Sisodia on March 9 after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested him on February 26 this year.

Last month, Special CBI Judge M. K. Nagpal of Rouse Avenue Court had denied bail to Sisodia, holding that the evidence, prima facie, "speaks volumes" of his involvement in the offence.

Last week, High Court judge Dinesh Kumar Sharma sought the ED's response to Sisodia's bail plea and another application seeking interim bail on the ground of his wife's ill-health and listed the matter for further consideration on May 11. In the case being probed by the CBI, Delhi court extended Sisodia's judicial custody till May 12.

RAHUL GANDHI TRAVELS IN BUS IN BENGALURU, INTERACTS WITH PUBLIC

Congressleader Rahul Gandhi on Monday travelled in a Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus and interacted with commuters of different age group in Bengaluru.

Gandhi also visited the Coffee Day shop on the Cunningham Road and interacted with coffee buffs and had a cup of coffee too. He walked to the nearest bus stop and met a group of women and college going girls at the junction.

The women and college girls shared with him their woes of everyday life, the difficulties they face while traveling in buses, their difficulty to pursue education, responsibilities of the family. Gandhi also asked them about the importance given to the education of their children. He boarded the bus with the women and spoke to them about the Congress' proposal of free travel for all women in public transport and Rs 2,000 allowance for women head of every family in Karnataka under Gruha Laxmi Scheme.

He also spoke to them on whether they are aware of these proposals by the Congress. The women passengers told him about price rises badly hitting their budgets and its consequences on their lives. Gandhi alighted the bus near Lingarajapuram and again interacted with the women and young people. He spoke to them about the Congress manifesto and got their feedback.

The Congress leader had travelled with a food delivery boy on his bike on Sunday and interacted with him.

MAMATA ANNOUNCES BAN ON SCREENING OF 'THE KERALA STORY' IN BENGAL

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced a ban on the screening of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' in the state.

She also instructed Chief Secretary H.K. Dwivedi to take the necessary steps to ensure the imposition of the ban.

"Certain scenes in the film can affect peace and harmony in West Bengal. So, we have decided to ban its screening everywhere in the state. The decision has been taken to maintain peace and harmony," the Chief Minister told mediapersons on Monday. While announcing the ban, she also took a dig at the Left government in Kerala for not taking a similar step.

"I do not support CPI(M). I want to speak about people. CPI(M) has a clandestine understanding with the BJP. Instead of just criticising the film, the Kerala government should have taken a similar step," Banerjee said. She also said that certain political parties are playing with fire. "They are trying to create division among the people on the basis of religion and caste. That is why 'The Kashmir Files' was made just to malign the people of a particular community. And now we have 'The Kerala Story', which is yet another untrue story with distorted facts," she said. Banerjee also said that she has information about plans to come out with 'The Bengal Files' next. "Now they are trying to malign the image of West Bengal," the Chief Minister said.

MANIPUR EFFECT: KUKIS, MEITEIS CLASH IN SHILLONG, 16 HELD

In a spillover of the ethnic violence in Manipur, members of Kuki and Meitei communities clashed in the Meghalaya capital and police have arrested 16 people in connection with the incident, officials said on Friday.

Police said that the clashes occurred at Nongrim Hills near the Mizo Morden School on Thursday evening, and a police team immediately rushed to the area and apprehended 16 persons of both the two communities.

Senior police officials warned both the communities of stringent actions against those try to vitiate the peace in the city.

EXCISE POLICY CASE: DELHI HC ADJOURNS HEARING ON SISODIA'S INTERIM BAIL PLEA TO MAY 10

WHEN DOES PAKISTAN VACATE ITS ILLEGAL OCCUPATION OF POK IS ONLY ISSUE TO DISCUSS: JAISHANKAR

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday said that there is only one issue to discuss with Pakistan on Kashmir - that is when does Pakistan vacate its illegal occupation of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Addressing a press conference after a meeting of Foreign Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always be a part of India.

"G-20 meetings are held in all the states and Union Territories of India. They (Pakistan) have nothing to do with G-20 and also with Srinagar. There is only one issue to discuss on Kashmir that when does Pakistan vacate its illegal occupation of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir," Jaishankar said in response to a question.

Asked whether India and Pakistan should sit together on terrorism issue,

Jaishankar, attacking his visiting Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, said: "Victims of terrorism do not sit together with perpetrators of terrorism to discuss terrorism. Victims of terrorism defend themselves, counter acts of terrorism, they call it out, and that is exactly what is happening. To come here and preach these hypocritical words as though we are on the same boat. They are committing acts of terrorism."

On the China-Pakistan economic corridor, he said: "So called corridor, it was made very clear not once, but twice in the SCO meeting that connectivity is good for progress but connectivity cant violate the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the states. This is a long standing position, nobody should have doubt about it. I assure that those who were in the room had no doubt about it."

TIHAR JAIL MURDER: EIGHT PRISON STAFF SUSPENDED, INQUIRY INITIATED

Three days after the brutal murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya a.k.a Sunil Maan inside the high-security Tihar Jail, the Director-General (Prison) has suspended three assistant superintendents, four wardens and another staff member, sources said on Friday. Department inquiries have also been initiated against three wardens even as DG Sanjay Baniwal instructed action to be taken against the commander of the Tamil Nadu Special Police Force under whose command nine personnel served, who were in the prison ward at the time of incident.

"The prison department has initiated action in the matter of Tillu Tajpuria's killing in which eight staff, including three assistant supritendents, of the prison department has been suspended," confirmed a prison spokesperson. Recently, chilling CCTV footages surfaced showing the murder of Tajpuriya allegedly by the members of the notorious Jitender Gogi gang inside the high-security Tihar Jail on May 2 in the presence of prison officials, who appeared to be standing by without even intervening. The incident took place within the sight of Tihar Jail officials, who seemed to be standing idle as mere spectators.

A new 2.36-minute-long video shows the attackers forcefully entering a separate area where prison officials were in the process of taking Tajpuriya to the hospital after the attack on him. However, the assailants proceeded to viciously stab, kick, and punch Tajpuriya in a brutal attack aimed at ensuring his death, in front of a number of prison officials. The disturbing footage has sparked significant concerns about the level of security within Tihar and the apparent lack of

action on the part of the officials to quell the violence. As per reports, Tajpuriya was stabbed over 90 times by the assailants. Tajpuriya (33), a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures on the ground-floor of Jail No. 8. "The prison staff revealed that Deepak a.k.a. Titar (31), Yogesh a.k.a. Gainda (30), Rajesh a.k.a. Tunda (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) had attacked Tajpuriya with improvised knives. When another inmate, Rohit, tried to intervene, he was also attacked and injured," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Akshat Kaushal said. Tajpuriya was an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout in which gangster Jitender Gogi was killed.

KARNATAKA POLLS: YEDIYURAPPA'S SON GIVEN ADDITIONAL ROLE, SPECIAL CHOPPER

As Karnataka is inching closer to the Assembly elections, the BJP has given additional responsibility to B.Y. Vijayendra, son of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, who is contesting from the Shikaripura Assembly constituency.

BJP sources confirmed that Vijayendra has been provided a special chopper to carry out the poll campaign in 20 Assembly constituencies.

Party sources say that Yediyurappa's son will take up the campaigning in seats where Lingayat votes are in large numbers. The BJP high command has directed him to take up the campaigning in Bagalkot, Koppal, Ballary, Chitradurga, Tumakuru and other districts.

Vijayendra was not listed as the star campaigner by the saffron party. Unable to rope in Yediyurappa everywhere, BJP has now taken a decision to field Vijayendra as a Lingayat face.

Meanwhile, Vijayendra attending an interaction programme with mediapersons clarified that even thinking of the post of Chief Minister for him at this stage would be 'foolish'.

"My aim is to ensure the victory of BJP, not the post of Chief Minister," he said. "I am not expecting any position in the party in return for taking up

state tours and my contesting from the Shikaripura Assembly constituency. The party high command will take the final decision. There is no scope of the concept of a successor in the BJP. The future depends on our capacity, conduct and response from the people," Vijayendra added.

CAN UNSC THAT EXCLUDES WORLD'S LARGEST DEMOCRACY BE INCLUSIVE? INDIA ASKS

A UN Security Council (UNSC) that denies permanent membership to the world's largest democracy cannot be considered inclusive and the first step to "future-proof" the world organisation wo uld be to reform the Security Council, according to India.

"The reform of the UNSC is the fundamental starting step towards 'Futureproofing Trust for Sustaining Peace'," India's Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj said on Wednesday.

"Is the UNSC in its present form -- which denies permanent representation to entire continents of Africa, Latin America and the world's largest democracy -- can it be deemed to be 'inclusive'," she asked at an open debate at the Council.

If the Council "is to continue to engender trust and confidence" in its ability to lead the world, it must better represent the developing countries, Kamboj said. With the interminable inter-governmental negotiation, as the reform process is called, set to meet on Thursday, she asked if it can be credible and effective without a time frame to conclude the discussions, she asked. The open debate on "future-proofing" the UN to ensure its credibility and effectiveness, was convened by Switzerland, which is holding the Council presidency for the first time.

Switzerland's Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis who presided over the meeting said that "we have to admit that we have not sufficiently taken account the frustrations and changes taking place on both sides of our planet" with the UN.

He said that it was necessary "to consider how this Council can strengthen the foundations of a broader peace architecture, which "must be inclusive and include those whom the population has designated as democratically legitimate".

In addition to the Council, Kamboj said: "Multilateral institutions must be made more accountable to their membership, they must be open and welcoming to a diversity of viewpoints, particularly from the global South."

Drawing attention to India's role as the president of the G20 -- the group of major developed and emerging economies -- Kamboj said that New Delhi "is committed to forging consensus through the G20 process in the effort to find solutions to global challenges".

The Delhi High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing on former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia's interim bail plea in the 2021-22 excise policy case being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to May 10. Appearing for the probe agency, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju submitted before the bench of Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma that "the change from 5 per cent to 12 per cent in the interest rate was made to get the kickback money. He (Sisodia) made the policy in such a way that guaranteed return in form of kickbacks came".

"Sisodia concealed legal experts' opinion given by eminent personalities as well. He hadn't mentioned it anywhere. It was ignored completely. They (members of AAP) did not include it in the policy," the ASG added.

He also said that there was a draft note prepared by a person named Rahul Singh on the instance of Manish Sisodia, which can be proved from their WhatsApp chats.

"The original is missing. Only a part of the draft has been retrieved from the phones," he said.

Taking note of the submission, the judge adjourned the matter for further submissions to May 10. Notably, Sisodia had moved the high court on Wednesday seeking interim bail in the case on the ground of his wife's illness. Earlier on Thursday, the high court had sought the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) response on Sisodia's bail plea in the same case. Last week, Special Judge M.K. Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Court had extended Sisodia's judicial custody till May 12. The court had also directed the CBI to supply an e-copy of the supplementary charge sheet to Sisodia.

UTTAR PRADESH TO DECLARE 'THE KERALA STORY' FILM TAX FREE IN STATE, SAYS CM YOGI ADITYANATH

Yogi Adityanath-led government on Tuesday decided to declare ‘The Kerala Story’ tax-free in the state. Uttar Pradesh chief minister could watch the film along with his cabinet colleagues at a special screening to be organised at Lok Bhawan, the chief minister's secretariat said. Meanwhile, UP Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak has welcomed Yogi's decision saying, "Making 'The Kerala Story' taxfree is a very good decision. I want the people of Uttar Pradesh to watch this film and understand how our sisters have suffered. We will also go and watch the film. The people in West Benegal will not accept the ban on this film."

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that 'The Kerala Story' moviea has been made tax-free in the state. He further said that 'The Kerala Story' "exposes the conspiracy of love Jihad, religious conversion and terrorism."

CHILLING CCTV FOOTAGE OF TILLU TAJPURIA'S MURDER INSIDE TIHAR JAIL SURFACES

A chilling CCTV footage has surfaced showing the shocking murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya allegedly by the members of the notorious Jitender Gogi gang inside the high-security Tihar Jail on May 2. In the CCTV footage, which has been accessed by IANS, an undertrial prisoner can be seen climbing down from the first floor to the ground floor using a bedsheet. After climbing down, he first locks the ward floor. Meanwhile, a man wearing a red t-shirt can be seen rushing towards a cell and closing its door. The door was open for head count. Two more men then climb down using bedsheets and forcefully enter the cell, where a scuffle breaks out. The men then drag Tajpuriya out of the cell and stab him repeatedly on the head and the body. An old man tries to intervene, but in vain. A man wearing a green t-shirt is also stabbed, and blood could be seen on his hand. As per reports, Tajpuriya was stabbed around 50 times by the assailants, who are reportedly members of the Jitender Gogi gang. Sunil a.k.a. Tajpuriya (33), a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures. Gangster Satinder Singh Brar, also known as Goldy Brar who's believed to be in hiding in Canada, has claimed responsibility for the attack on Tajpuriya, citing revenge, according to an unverified social media post. "Hello everyone, our brothers Yogesh Tunda and Deepak Titar are responsible for the murder of Tillu Tajpuriya in Tihar Jail on Tuesday. Tajpuria took responsibility for the loss of Gogi Maan bhai and had been an enemy of our brothers since the beginning. We will soon take care of others involved," the Facebook post read. During the inquiry, it was revealed that another undertrial prisoner, Rohit, was injured in the attack. "The prison staff revealed that Deepak a.k.a. Titar (31), Yogesh a.k.a. Gainda (30), Rajesh a.k.a. Tunda (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) had attacked Tajpuriya with improvised knives. When Rohit tried to intervene, he was also attacked and injured," said Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Akshat Kaushal.

IMRAN KHAN ARRESTED BY PAKISTAN RANGERS ON NAB'S ORDERS

Based on orders by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested by the Pakistan Rangers from outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday.

Khan had travelled to Islamabad earlier in the day from his Lahore residence to appear before the IHC seeking bail in the Al-Qadir trust case lodged by the NAB.

However, upon his arrival at the IHC, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was arrested by the Rangers and took him to the NAB office.

According to NAB officials, arrest warrants for the former premier in the Al-Qadir trust case were issued on May 1.

The arrest was made under the same reference, the officials added. Confirming the arrest, PTI's lawyer Faisal Chaudhry said that as soon as Khan arrived at the IHC, a large number of Rangers troops surrounded the court premises.

He also said that PTI lawyers and supporters were assaulted.

"Imran Khan has been arrested by Rangers outside the IHC. Lawyers have been subjected to torture and PTI workers and supporters are also being arrested," said Chaudhry.

IHC Chief Justice has taken notice of the arrest outside the premises, directing the Islamabad police chief, Interior Ministry secretary and additional attorney general to appear before the court immediately, warning that he would summon the Prime Minister if the officials did not appear within 15 minutes.

"Imran Khan has been arrested in Al-Qadir trust case. Situation in under control," said Inspector General Islamabad Amir Zulfiqar Khan.

The arrest comes hours after Imran Khan recorded a video message before leaving his residence in Lahore, stating that his claims against a senior intelligence agency official were true, who he claimed attempted to assassinate him in two different incidents.

The PTI chief had said that he will provide all evidences when required, calling out the military establishment to get ready to be held accountable by the people. The arrest of Imran Khan has been on the wishlist of the ruling government, who have been piling up cases against the former premier. In the wake of the arrest, the situation across the country is expected to become tense supporters of Imran khan are expected to take to the streets, which may lead to chaos and unrest in the coming days.

9 DEAD, 7 INJURED IN SHOOTING AT MALL IN TEXAS

Nine people were killed, including the shooter, and seven others wounded in a shooting at an outlet mall in south-central US state Texas, authorities said. The incident took place on Saturday afternoon. The shooter, who authorities believe was acting alone, was dead at the scene, according to the Collin County Sheriff's Office.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said on Saturday night that among the at least nine people sent to hospitals, "two have since died, three are in critical surgery, and four are stable."

Local media said the wounded include a five-year-old child, Xinhua news agency reported.

The shooting occurred at the Allen Premium Outlets in a suburb about 48 km north of Dallas. Local residents told Xinhua that it is one of the largest outlet malls in the area and is usually very busy during weekends.

Joseph Gallagher, a store manager at the mall, told Xinhua that he saw rounds of bullets "bounce off the pillar in front of our store" and witnessed the gunman being shot dead with blood hitting the walls.

DISTRACTED DRIVER KILLS SIKH COUPLE ON WAY TO PICK UP KIDS IN US

A Sikh couple on their way to pick up their kids from a school bus stop died on the spot after being hit by a distracted driver in Kent, a suburb of Washington city, authorities said. Parminder Singh Bajwa and wife Harpreet Kaur died on the scene last week when their car was hit head-on by a distracted driver apparently reaching for his cell phone, the Washington State Patrol said. The distracted driver, who had suddenly crossed into oncoming traffic, was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The funeral service of the couple is scheduled for Friday in Kent, and all the expenses will be taken care of by the Sikh Riders Motorcycle Group of Washington. "Those who knew Parminder remember him as a good man, always cheerful and loving towards others. Our hearts break for their young children, who now face a future without their loving parents," the group said on a fundraiser page.

AFGHAN MINISTER ASKS PAKISTAN, TTP TO HOLD TALKS AS VIOLENCE SURGES

Afghanistans acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi on Monday asked Pakistan and the banned militant outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to sit together for dialogue, media reports said.

"It is requested that Pakistan and TTP sit together for dialogue," the Afghan minister said while addressing an event in Islamabad, The News reported. The Taliban-led administration's representative is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan to attend bilateral and trilateral dialogues. Muttaqi said the security situation in the region was discussed during his Islamabad visit.

Islamabad had held several rounds of talks -- brokered by Kabul -- with the outlawed TTP but the negotiations failed last year after which the militant group started terror activities.

Acknowledging Pakistan's loss while fighting against terrorism, he said: "In the last 20 years, Pakistan has lost 80,000 lives to terrorism." Meanwhile, the minister also spoke about Afghanistan successfully achieving peace after 44 years, The News reported. He added that the challenges faced by neighbouring countries Pakistan and Afghanistan are not different from one another. The minister said both countries have been through various situations and will now work together.

TOP INTELLIGENCE OFFICIAL RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSASSINATION ATTEMPTS, SAYS IMRAN KHAN

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan alleged on Thursday that a "top intelligence official" was behind the assassination attempts against him and would be responsible if something happened to him in the future, media reports said.

Imran Khan, in a video message, stated that he had already informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that "dirty Harry", the top officer, was behind the attempts against his life. He added that the findings by the joint investigation team (JIT) probing the Wazirabad case were sabotaged by of the official, the Express Tribune reported.

He continued that the second assassination attempt was on March 18 outside the Islamabad judicial complex and now PTI leader Murad Saeed's life is in danger.

"They say that terrorists are after him (Saeed), but if something happens to him, it will be because of dirty Harry," he said, Express Tribune reported. The former Prime Minister further emphasised that if something happened to him, "dirty Harry" would be responsible and "not terrorist or foreign agencies".

"I have received no threats from anyone except from him and those involved with him."

IMRAN DIVORCED

REHAM KHAN VIA EMAIL AT BUSHRA BIBI'S BEHEST, CLAIMS FORMER AIDE

Making a startling revelation, former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Awn Chaudhry alleged on Thursday that ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan divorced Reham Khan, his second spouse, at the behest of his current wife, Bushra Bibi, a media report said.

It was disclosed during the proceedings of a case related to the alleged un-Islamic 'Nikah' of the PTI chief with Bushra Riaz Wattoo -- who is better known as Bushra Bibi -- at a district and sessions court in Islamabad, Geo News reported.

Khan married Bushra -- who is his third wife -- in February 2018.

Khan's friend Zulfi Bukhari and former party leader Awn Chaudhry have said the Nikah was solemnised by Mufti Saeed in Lahore. They both also stood witness to Khan's marriage.

Awn maintained that he was a personal assistant and political secretary to Khan.

"I used to look after all the personal and political affairs of Imran Khan," he said.

The politician told the court that Khan and Reham's divorce took place in 2015.

"Bushra Bibi told Imran Khan to divorce Reham Khan immediately as it was better for him. On Bushra Bibi's advice, Khan divorced Reham via email," Awn said, adding that Khan's former wife wasn't in Pakistan at that time, Geo News reported. He also said that Khan started getting distressed after the divorce and often asked to be taken to Bushra Bibi. Following this, Khan continued to pay visits to Bushra Bibi till December 31, 2017, and announced he would marry her on January 1,2018, Awn added.

"He told me to make marriage arrangements. I was surprised at Imran Khan's words and said that Bushra Bibi was already married but Imran Khan told me that Bushra Bibi had been divorced," Geo News reported.

INDIAN-ORIGIN AJAY BANGA BECOMES 14TH PRESIDENT OF WORLD BANK

Ajay Banga, an Indian-origin American, was on Wednesday selected as the President of the World Bank by its executive directors for a five-year term starting June 2. "The Board looks forward to working with Mr. Banga," the World Bank Board said in a statement. Banga was the nominee of President Joe Biden of the US, which has chosen every World Bank President in an unwritten agreement with Europe since 1944, according to which Europe gets to select the President of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), leaving the World Bank top job for the US. They still go through the process of nomination and "selection", which is really a tool to grant confirmation. Banga will be the 14th President of the World Bank. He will take over from David Malpass, who was nominated by former President Donald Trump. Banga was born in Pune, Maharashtra, and went to schools in Shimla and Hyderabad.

NEPAL MP TAKES OFF CLOTHES IN HOUSE AFTER NOT BEING ALLOWED TO SPEAK

An Independent MP in Nepal, Amresh Kumar Singh, on Monday took off his shirt and vest in the House in protest against not being given time to speak.

Singh, a former Nepali Congress leader, contested the elections last year as an Independent candidate from Sarlahi after the Nepali Congress did not give him a ticket.

Singh, who had done Ph.D from Jawaharlal Nehru University in the Indian capital of Delhi, took off his clothes after Devraj Ghimire, Speaker of the House of Representatives (HoR) did not allow him to speak. Ghimire warned him that "action would be taken if he did not behave politely in the HoR meeting.

"I am ready to become a martyr for speaking against corruption," said Singh before taking off his clothes.

RUSSIA ACCUSED OF USING PHOSPHORUS BOMBS IN UKRAINE WAR

Ukraine has accused Russia of attacking the besieged city of Bakhmut with phosphorus munitions, a media report said. In drone footage released by Ukraine's military, Bakhmut can be seen ablaze as what appears to be white phosphorus rains down on the city, BBC reported. White phosphorus weapons are not banned, but their use in civilian areas is considered a war crime. They create fast-spreading fires that are very difficult to put out. Russia has been accused of using them before as well. Russia has been trying to capture Bakhmut for months, despite its questionable strategic value. Western officials have estimated that thousands of Moscow's troops have died in the assault. Taking to Twitter, Ukraine's defence ministry said the phosphorus attack targeted "unoccupied areas of Bakhmut with incendiary ammunition". Kiev's special forces command added that Moscow's forces continued "to destroy the city". It is unclear when exactly the alleged attack took place. But the footage shared by Ukraineseemingly captured by a surveillance drone - showed high-rise buildings engulfed in flames, BBC reported. Other videos posted to social media showed fires raging on the ground and white clouds of phosphorus illuminating the night sky. Russia has been accused of using white phosphorus several times since it launched its fullscale invasion of Ukraine last year, including during the siege of Mariupol at the beginning of the war.

US FED HIKES INTEREST RATE BY 0.25 PERCENTAGE POINT, 10TH IN 14 MONTHS

The US Federal Reserve has approved its 10th interest rate hike in 14 months, increasing its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points. The Fed also signalled that Wednesday's hike may be its last one for now, BBC reported. The rate hikes have sharply raised borrowing costs across the world's largest economy, spurring a slowdown in sectors such as housing and playing a role in the recent failures of three US banks, the report said. The moves have pushed the target range for its benchmark rate to 5 per cent to 5.25 per cent, up from near zero in March 2022, the highest level since 2007, BBC reported. Higher interest rates make it more expensive to buy a home, borrow to expand a business or take on other debt. By increasing those costs, officials expect demand to fall and prices to cool off, BBC reported. Price increases in the US have shown signs of moderating ever since the Fed started its campaign. In March, inflation, the rate at which prices rise, stood at 5 per centthe lowest level in nearly two years - though still uncomfortably high for the Fed, which is targeting a 2 per cent rate.

TWO 10-YEAR-OLDS FOUND WORKING AT KENTUCKY MCDONALD'S WITHOUT PAY: US LABOUR DEPT

Two 10-year-old children were found working at a McDonald's in Louisville, Kentucky, according to the US Department of Labour (DOL). The DOL said that investigators from its Wage and Hour Division found that Bauer Food LLC, a Louisville-based operator of 10 McDonald's locations, employed 24 minors under age 16 to work more than legally permitted hours, reports Xinhua news agency. These children sometimes worked more hours a day or week than the law permits, whether or not school is in session. The investigators also determined that two 10-year-old children were employed, but not paid, and sometimes worked as late as 2 a.m. Below the minimum age for employment, they prepared and distributed food orders, cleaned the store, worked at the drive-thru window, and operated a register, the findings indicated.

The Wage and Hour Division also learned that one of the two children was allowed to operate a deep fryer, a prohibited task for workers under 16 years old in the US.

"Too often, employers fail to follow the child labour laws that protect young workers," Wage and Hour Division District Director Karen Garnett-Civils in Louisville, Kentucky, said in a statement.

"Under no circumstances should there ever be a 10-year-old child working in a fast-food kitchen around hot grills, ovens, and deep fryers," Garnett-Civils added.

In addition to Bauer Food LLC, the federal labour regulator also investigated Archways Richwood LLC and Bell Restaurant Group I LLC. The three franchisees operate 62 McDonald's locations across Kentucky, Indiana, Maryland and Ohio.

DEEPIKA PADUKONE REACTS TO ALIA BHATT'S MET GALA 2023 DEBUT AMID ONLINE CRITICISM

PARINEETI CHOPRA, RAGHAV CHADHA

ALIA BHATT RECENTLY MADE HER DEBUT AT MET GALA 2023 IN HER WHITE ENSEMBLE EMBELLISHED WITH PEARLS. SHE DISHED OUT MAJOR PRINCESS VIBES IN AN ELABORATE GOWN DESIGNED BY PRABAL GURUNG. THE ACTRESS TOOK TO HER SOCIAL MEDIA AND SHARED A VIDEO THAT FEATURED HER BTS MOMENTS, BEFORE MAKING HER WAY TO THE BIGGEST FASHION EVENT. INTERESTINGLY, IT WAS DEEPIKA PADUKONE'S COMMENT ON THE POST THAT GRABBED EVERYONE'S ATTENTION AS SHE FACED ONLINE CRITICISMS FOR POSTING PICTURES FROM THE OSCARS HOURS BEFORE ALIA'S BIG DEBUT. BASKING IN THE 'MET' GLORY, ALIA SHARED A VIDEO OF BEHIND THE SCENES FROM THE EVENT. IN THE VIDEO, ALIA WAS TALKING ABOUT HER PREPARATION, AND MOMENTS OF NERVOUSNESS BEFORE MAKING HER GALA DEBUT. DEEPIKA WROTE ON THE VIDEO, "YOU DID IT" AND POSTED A HEART EMOJI ON IT. ALIA'S POST READ, "ALIA BHATT TURNED TO DESIGNER @PRABALGURUNG FOR HER #METGALA DEBUT, FOR WHICH EVEN THIS SUPERSTAR WAS A LITTLE NERVOUS. WOBBLY KNEES WERE NOWHERE TO BE SEEN ONCE THIS GLAMOROUS LOOK HIT THE CARPET, THOUGH. THE ALL-WHITE OUTFIT ELEGANTLY FIT INTO THE NIGHT'S DRESS CODE OF "IN HONOUR OF KARL."

SAMANTHA ON INDIAN ADAPTATION OF 'CITADEL': IT IS NOT A REMAKE

KANGANA DECLINES SUGGESTION TO BUY TWITTER FOLLOWERS

TAYLOR SWIFT TO RELEASE RE-RECORDED VERSION OF 'SPEAK NOW' ON JULY 7

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha have been ruling the headlines for their outings in and around the city. On Sunday, the duo stepped out for a dinner date and were clicked in Mumbai. While they have not officially confirmed their relationship, their frequent outings together is proof enough that they have been dating. Interestingly, Parineeti and Raghav also flaunted engagement rings as they were spotted after dinner. Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha are reportedly getting engaged on May 13 in Delhi. However, ahead of the occassion, they were spotted wearing engagement rings. Some time ago, Raghav Chadha addressed the dating rumours. When he was asked about Parineeti, he said "Aap mujhse raajneeti ke sawaal kariye, Parineeti ke sawaal na kariye (Please ask me questions about politics, not Parineeti)." On the other hand, Parineeti and Raghav were recently spotted watching an IPL match together at Mohali stadium. Fans at the stadium cheered for the duo and they were seen blushing.

SALMAN KHAN & SHAH RUKH KHAN TO HAVE 35 CRORE SET FOR TIGER 3 ACTION SEQUENCE?

ONE OF SAMANTHA'S ARDENT FOLLOWERS SOUGHT CLARIFICATION REGARDING THE CORRELATION BETWEEN PRIYANKA CHOPRA'S CITADEL AND THE INDIAN RENDITION.

THE STAR WOULD LIKE TO CONTINUE HER PERSONAL COMMUNICATION WITH HER DESERVING FANS ONLY.

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ANDRE RUSSELL, RINKU SINGH HELP KOLKATA PULL OFF NAIL-BITER AGAINST PUNJAB

TAYLOR SWIFT ANNOUNCED THAT HER NEW RE-RECORDED ALBUM SPEAK NOW (TAYLOR’S VERSION). I DETAILS ON PAGE 25

Salman Khan's cameo in Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan was an epic moment for all the fans and now Tiger 3 is in the pipeline. Now when Shah Rukh's cameo is confirmed in Salman's Tiger 3, fans have been eagerly waiting for the release of the movie. We can definitely expect everything grand from the special sequence. According to the reports, for the high-octane action sequence for the movie, a set worth a whopping Rs 35 crore will be created. The action sequence that is set to be shot from May 8 is rumoured to be a jailhouse sequence where Pathaan returns Tiger's favour as the latter had helped him out of a tricky situation in 'Pathaan'. A source said, "When you have SRK & Salman in one film, you got to do justice to their superstardom to create an experience like never before. Pathaan did that brilliantly and now Tiger 3 will try and do the same." 10:00 AM

VIDYUT JAMMWAL VISITS GOLDEN TEMPLE, CLEANS UTENSILS FOR SEVA

TAAPSEE PANNU SAUNTERS IN A SAREE WHILE VACATIONING IN NEW YORK

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu was seen walking around dressed in a nine yard wonder in New York while holidaying with her sister Shagun and beau and badminton champion Mathias Boe. Taapsee took to Instagram stories, where she shared a slew of pictures. In the images, the actress is seen wearing a white corset paired with a dark purple saree and sneakers. She shared a picture holding a glass of water and wrote: "Clearly antibar person."

The second photograph had Taapsee posing sitting outside a cafe with another beverage: "Now more like it."

On the acting front, Taapsee will be seen sharing screen space with

Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming film 'Dunki', directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Vicky Kaushal also has a pivotal role in the film.

This is for the first time both Rajkumar Hirani and Shah Rukh Khan are coming together. Naturally, the film has been making a buzz since its announcement. In the film, SRK will be presented in a new avatar as he steps into Hirani's world with this social comedy.

A JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment and Rajkumar Hirani Films presentation, 'Dunki' is directed by Rajkumar Hirani. The film is written by Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijaat Joshi and Kanika Dhillon, and produced by Rajkumar Hirani and Gauri Khan. The film went on floors in April, 2022.

SRK TO FAN QUIBBLING ABOUT ARYAN'S EXPENSIVE BRAND: 'MUJHE BHI SASTI NAHI BECH RAHE'

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan gave a hilarious reply to a fan, who was complaining about Aryan Khan's expensive clothing brand.

SRK took to Twitter, where he did a question and answer session with his fans. A user wrote: "Ye dyavol x ke jacket thoda sa 1000- 2000 wale bhi bana do... Wo wale khareedne me to ghar chala jayega."

Replying to it, Shah Rukh said he would do something about it but with a hilarious spin.

He wrote: "Yeh D'Yavol X wale log mujhe bhi sasti nahi bech rahea. kuch karta hoon!" On the work front, SRK recently announced that his much-awaited film 'Jawan', directed by Atlee, is slated for release on September 7. An action thriller, 'Jawan' features the music of Ashvin Ravichandran and also cameos by Deepika Padukone, Vijay, Sanjay Dutt and Allu Arjun.

KANGANA DECLINES SUGGESTION TO BUY TWITTER FOLLOWERS

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has declined suggestion of buying Twitter followers as she does not want too many people to see her communications with her fans.

Kangana gave an answer to a fan, who suggested her to "buy followers" like "other actresses".

The social media user wrote: "Seriously @KanganaTeam you are top actress you should also buy fake followers like other actresses you deserve better than this."

Kangana replied by saying: "No, no I don't want too many people to see my personal communication with my fans only those who are deserving. Even if they become less it's better .... Lord Krishna has said anything of value you must never offer unless asked for... there are consequences to such an act of irresponsibility."

On the work front, Kangana, who was last seen on screen in 'Dhaakad', will be seen in 'Emergency', 'Chandramukhi 2', 'Tejas', 'Manikarnika Returns: The Legend of Didda' and 'The Incarnation: Sita'.

HANSIKA WRAPS UP SHOOT FOR FEMALE-CENTRIC FILM 'MAN' IN CHENNAI

CHENNAI, (IANS) Hansika Motwani has completed shooting for the last schedule of director Igore's Tamil film 'Man' in Chennai. The film is a thriller that talks about violence against women and the difficulties that they have been subjected to. Hansika plays a fashion designer -- a strong, independent and empowered woman.

The look is fierce and the shoot was very challenging. Speaking on the wrap of the film, Motwani said: "As the 'Man' shoot comes to an end, I must say this journey wasn't very easy, but it was definitely worth the effort. My character in the movie has many layers and it was an experience to play such a strong woman. I can't wait for the audience to see me play Nirmala.

This movie is truly very special to me." Directed by Igore and shot in Chennai, Pollachi and Madurai, the movie's also includes Aari Arjunan, who plays the antagonist, Janani Durga and Soumika. Ghibran has composed the music and Mani has worked the cameras.

AYUSHMANN KHURRANA TO BE FELICITATED BY HIS ALMA-MATER PANJAB UNIVERSITY

MUMBAI, (IANS) Actor Ayushmann Khurrana is honoured that his alma mater, Panjab University, is going to felicitate him for his clutter-breaking contribution to Indian cinema. The actor will travel to Chandigarh to receive this award on May 20 and also interact with the students of the prestigious institute. Panjab University's alumni list consists of people who have made India proud globally like Ayushmann. Other noted alumni include former Prime Minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh, Bharti enterprises CEO Sunil Bharti Mittal, journalist Shekhar Gupta, and former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor and ex IPS officer Kiran Bedi. Ayushmann said: "There have been validations in the past from the TIME magazine, Forbes and also the prestigious National Award, but it's most special when your alma mater acknowledges your achievements!"

He added: "While studying at Panjab University, I was astonished to learn about so many seniors who had become national icons and made the state and country proud. It was a great honour for me to have studied at this prestigious institution, mentored by brilliant teachers." "I was guided, shaped, and empowered to take on the world on my own terms by this institution that set the foundation stone for who I'm today. I had secretly wished then that I would try and emulate the feat of my seniors and make my alma mater proud one day." Ayushmann says he is aware that his country wants him to strive for disruption, originality, and world-class quality. "I realise the responsibility I have to strive for originality in our films and this award will only ground me further to not waver from that bigger goal of always creating something clutter-breaking. I look forward to being at the convocation ceremony. I know it will be a moment that I will cherish as it'll bring back the memories of my university days," said the actor Ayushmann will be next seen in 'Dream Girl 2', the sequel to his blockbuster 'Dream Girl', scheduled to release on August 25.

AMRITSAR, (IANS) Ahead of the release of his maiden production 'IB 71', Bollywood action star Vidyut Jammwal visited the Golden Temple to seek blessings and also did seva, during which he was seen cleaning the utensils.

Vidyut was seen praying at the temple after which he did seva dressed in an all white ensemble.

The 'Commando' star is also expected to visit the Wagah Border and pay his respect to those who serve the nation.

Directed by the National-Award winning filmmaker Sankalp Reddy, 'IB 71' is headlined and produced by Vidyut Jammwal. It tells the story of the Ganga hijack of 1971, which helped India gain a strategic advantage over Pakistan.

'IB 71' is presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series Film and Reliance Entertainment. The Action Hero Films prod uction stars Vidyut Jammwal, Anupam Kher and Vishal Jethwa. The film is produced by Vidyut Jammwal and Abbas Sayyed, and co-produced by Aditya Shastri, Aditya Chowksey and Shiv Chanana. The film is directed by national award winner Sankalp Reddy with the story by Aditya Shastri and the screenplay by Storyhouse Films LLP. The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 12.

SHABANA AZMI SLAMS THOSE SEEKING BAN ON 'THE KERALA STORY'

MUMBAI, (IANS) Veteran star Shabana Azmi has shown her support to the latest released film 'The Kerala Story' starring Adah Sharma as the movie is currently in a soup due to controversies. Shabana on Monday tweeted that those who want to ban the film are "as wrong as those who wanted to ban" the Aamir Khan-starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha' last year. She tweeted: "Those who speak of banning #The Kerala Story are as wrong as those who wanted to ban Aamir Khan's #Laal Singh Chaadha. Once a film has been passed by the Central Board of Film Certification, nobody has the right to become an extra constitutional authority." 'The Kerala Story' got in trouble after the film's trailer claimed that 32,000 girls from the state went missing and later joined ISIS, the terrorist group. Last year, 'Laal Singh Chaddha' too faced troubles as a section of people on social media platforms started the aboycott Bollywood' trend for the film. In 'The Kerala Story', actress Adah Sharma is playing the role of Fathima Ba, a Hindu Malayali nurse, who is among the 32,000 women who went missing from Kerala and were then recruited to the ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) after being forced to convert to Islam. 'The Kerala Story' has been written and directed by Sudipto Sen and stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani.

SONAM KAPOOR STARTS SPEECH WITH 'NAMASTE' AT KING CHARLES CORONATION CONCERT

MUMBAI, (IANS) Indian actress Sonam Kapoor, who attended King Charles coronation concert in London, gave a desi touch to begin her speech as she greeted the audience with a "namaste". Sonam, who was introduced on stage as the "biggest Bollywood" actor, was attending the concert with names such as Tom Cruise and Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger at Windsor Castle.

While some hailed the actor for her 'proud moment', others called her speech 'embarrassing'.

Sonam said: "Our Commonwealth is a union. Together we are one third of the world's people, one third of the world's ocean, one quarter of the world's land. Each of our countries is unique. Each of our people is special. But we choose to stand this one." "Learning from our history, blessed by our diversity, driven by our values and determined to build a more peaceful, sustainable and prosperous future for everyone, where every voice is heard. Without further ado, here's welcoming the incredible voices from across the Commonwealth."

Sonam's mother Sunita Kapoor also shared the clip on her Instagram. "So proud! Such an honour!" she captioned the short clip. On the work front, Sonam is gearing up for 'Blind'.

HOLLYWOOD

RUTH WILSON SAYS THAT ACTRESSES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO 'AGE ON SCREEN'

SAMANTHA ON INDIAN ADAPTATION OF 'CITADEL': IT IS NOT A REMAKE

Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has cleared the air loud and clear saying that the Indian version of 'Citadel' is not a remake of the Priyanka Chopra-starrer spy series. Samantha took to social media to share some pictures from her birthday celebrations. A user on the comment section enquired about the Indian adaptation, which also stars Varun Dhawan. The user wrote: "@samantharuthprabhuoffl I have one question is Priyanka's Citadel and your Citadel the same story?? Why I am asking is Priyanka dubbed in all Indian languages... so if you are doing the

same story for In dian audiences then many would have already watched it. I am a bit confused... can you clarify if it's same or different?? BTW (by the way) happy birthday dear... God bless you!!"

Replying to the user, Samantha said: "It is not a REMAKE!!" Helmed by 'The Family Man' creators Raj and DK, 'Citadel' is the Indian counterpart of the larger international series of the same name which has been originally created by the director duo, Russo Brothers. The global version of the series stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Richard Madden.

BIG B'S 'WARNING IN ADVANCE' TO FANS COMING TO MEET HIM AT JALSA

MUMBAI, (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has "warned" his fans that they he will "certainly not" go to the gates of his home Jalsa to greet fans and asked them to not come and meet him.

Amitabh, who religiously meets his fans as a Sunday ritual outside his house, shared that he has professional commitments the next day and won't be able to make it.

Big B wrote on his blog: ""Going certainly not for the GATE at JALSA tomorrow, for .. there is work on location which can only be given permission for on a Sunday .. There shall be an effort of course to return in time for the 5:45pm at Jalsa .. but there could be a delay or a non-appearance.. so a warning in advance to keep away ..."

The cine icon shared that his upcoming film 'Section 84' is very demanding. "I must confess that the film Section 84 IPC is taking a lot out of me as far as the nature of the film and role is, which is why when the day work is done it does not leave you even as you set off for home .. much of it remains in the head and body and as is often the matter with the profession, it remains a pleasant disturbance .." he wrote. The film is a courtroom drama thriller, and will be directed by

DALIP TAHHIL: SPENT MONTHS RESEARCHING BHUTTO'S LIFE, MANNERISMS, SPEECH PATTERNS

MUMBAI, (IANS) Actor Dalip Tahhil will be seen essaying the role of Zulfiqar Bhutto, a prominent Pakistani Sindhi politician in the upcoming film 'IB 71'. He said he spent months on his life, mannerisms, speech patterns to nail his character. Tahhil's casting has also brought to the fore the cultural and historical ties that bind the Sindhi communities on either side of the India-Pakistan border. Tahhil had with himself the opportunity to play such an important character and showcase the cultural similarities between the two countries.

When we asked Tahhil to play the role of Zulfiqar Bhutto in 'IB71', he said, "Playing the role of Zulfiqar Bhutto was a challenge that I couldn't resist. I needed to bring a sense of authenticity and nuance to the character."

"I spent months researching Bhutto's life, his mannerisms, and his speech patterns. I hope that my portrayal of the character does justice to his legacy and brings to the fore the cultural similarities that exist between our two countries."

'IB 71' is presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series Film and Reliance Entertainment. The Action Hero Films production stars Vidyut Jammwal, Anupam Kher and Vishal Jethwa in pivotal roles and is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Action Hero Films and Reliance Entertainment.

Produced by Vidyut Jammwal & Abbas Sayyed, co-produced by Aditya Shastri, Aditya Chowksey and Shiv Chanana. The film is directed by national award winner Sankalp Reddy with the story by Aditya Shastri and the screenplay by Storyhouse Films LLP. The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 12.

LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Actress Ruth Wilson claims Hollywood puts pressure on actresses to have cosmetic procedures. Although Ruth, 41, hasn't got any enhancements, she admits that she is afraid that not having any treatments could leave her looking older than her peers, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"As an actress, everyone does it. Very few resist. I haven't done anything - yet. But it's in my head as like, 'Well, do you decide not to and therefore potentially look older than your peers? Or do you just give in?' " she told The Guardian newspaper. "I find it so.... It's mad! It's massive violence. Why can't a woman age on screen? Or age, full stop? We're like, 'Wow', today. But in 200 years, they'll be looking back at images of women now going, 'What were they doing?' 'What is that? You're blowing your face and lips up.' Yet it's a multibillion-dollar industry. And women are part of that industry, perpetuating this 'empowerment'." Ruth also explained that she rarely looks at herself in the mirror. She said, "Well, I do, but briefly. I don't think it's because I'm self-conscious or disappointed by it, but more that for some reason I don't take the face into consideration. Before I leave the house, I look at my outfit, my body, see if it all works but I often forget to check my face and hair. I am not sure what the psychology of that is." Meanwhile, the actress revealed that she is in a relationship with a New York based writer and joked that refusing to name him has made people question if he exists. She said, "He writes novels, TV and film. I don't say his name. He's anonymous. People think he doesn't exist."

SAM SMITH CANCELS ISRAEL GIG FOLLOWING BACKLASH OVER 'SATANIC' PERFORMANCE

LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Singer Sam Smith has pulled the plug on their concert in Tel Aviv, Israel. After backlash over their "satanic" and "vulgar" performance on their 'Gloria the Tour', the British singer/ songwriter's scheduled show in the city was cancelled due to "unforeseen technical and logistical issues," reports aceshowbiz.com. In a statement on Friday, May 5, the Summer in the City festival organisers announced that there will be no concert taking place on May 31 in Hayarkon Park "including that of Sam Smith." The organisers of the two-day festival added in the statement that "ticket holders are invited to contact their ticket agency to receive a full refund." "Furthermore, customers who bought tickets for both festival days and choose to keep their tickets for June 1, 2023, will be eligible for a 25 per cent refund on the ticket price, or they can cancel their tickets entirely and receive a full refund," the statement continued. Robbie Williams is set to headline the June 1 show. It will also feature performances from artists such as Static, Callum Scott and Martin Garrix. The cancellation came after Sam drew criticism over their performance at his 'Gloria the Tour' show, which was kicked off on April 12 in Sheffield. On his tour, the Grammy Award winner, who is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, featured religious imagery and dressed in a series of racy looks. The 'Unholy' hitmaker additionally wore red devil horns, sheer veils and wire crowns before changing into nipple tassels and fishnets.

Ribhu Dasgupta of 'The Girl on the Train' fame. Ribhu has also written the film. It is being bankrolled by Reliance Entertainment and Film Hangar in association with Jio Studios.

JUBIN NAUTIYAL: 'HAI KAISI KAISI' CAPTURES THE PAIN OF SEPARATION

RAKUL PREET SINGH TAKES CRYOTHERAPY IN MINUS 15 DEGREES CELSIUS

MUMBAI, (IANS) Ice ice baby! Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh took a dip in icy-cold water in minus 15 degrees temperature. Rakul took to Instagram, where she shared a video of her taking a quick dip amidst snow-capped mountains. In the clip, Rakul is seen wearing a blue bikini as she runs from her cabin located in the middle of snowy locale and then takes a dip in icy cold water. Rakul captioned: "Cryo in -15 degrees anyone?"

Cryotherapy is the local or general use of low temperatures in medical therapy. Cryotherapy may be used to treat a variety of tissue lesions. It can be a range of treatments from the application of ice packs or immersion in ice baths, to the use of cold chambers. On the work front, Rakul will next be seen in 'Indian 2'. She was last seen in 'Chhatriwali', a film revolving around sex education.

'HARRY POTTER', 'THE LORD OF THE RINGS' MOVIES TO RERELEASE ON BIG SCREEN IN INDIA

MUMBAI, (IANS) Iconic film franchises 'Harry Potter' and 'The Lord Of The Rings' are returning to Indian cinemas getting a re-release on the big screen to create the magic again. As part of the 100 years celebration of the iconic studio Warner Bros., audiences in India will get to watch two of the biggest movie franchises on the big screen. PVR-Inox, Miraj cinemas are releasing the Harry Potter films at their cinemas till May 11. 'The Lord Of The Rings' Trilogy will play in cinemas from May 13 to May 15. Speaking on the initiative, Denzil Dias, VP & Managing Director India Theatrical at Warner Bros. Discovery said: "As part of our Centennial Celebrations, we plan to re-release some of our most cherished films and franchises in cinemas starting with the Harry Potter Series and the 'Lord of the Rings Trilogy with many more to come to serve our loyal fans."

The 'Harry Potter' is a film series based on the eponymous novels by J. K. Rowling. It consists of eight fantasy films, beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and culminating with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2.

As per Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy, PVR INOX Ltd: "These iconic films have captured the hearts and imagination of fans around the world, and we are excited to offer them a chance to relive the magic at our cinemas across the country."

SONALI BENDRE:

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood

"We look forward to welcoming movie-goers of all ages to join us in this celebration of cinema and storytelling. I also congratulate Warner Bros for completing a stupendous 100 years of entertaining the world."

The 'Lord of the Rings' is a series of three epic fantasy adventure films directed by Peter Jackson, based on the novel The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien. The films are subtitled 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Two Towers' and 'The Return of the King'.

actress Sonali Bendre has made a shocking revelation that she is a very scared dancer. In the 'Best Ka Pehla Test', while the contestants will give a spectacular tribute to Bollywood in a filmy way, contestant Hansvi Tonk and her choreographer Anuradha will leave everybody startled with their spinechilling act on the iconic song 'Aami Je Tomar' in the Manjulika and Anjulika avatar. Judge Sonali Bendre complimented the dance act saying: "This was not only an act for me, but on the stage of 'India's Best Dancer 3' it was a really good scene that I witnessed. This was a well-detailed scene with proper character details and a plot narrative which you performed as a dance act." "It looked so simple as if you are just talking about it as you stand but when you do a scene in real life that is also choreographed, the actors are told to do things. You have done all of that through dance. It was so smooth, like someone was walking and I do not think there is a bigger compliment that I can give. Amazing Hansvi, god bless you. You keep your mother's faith in you alive and I am sure she is proud whenever you come on stage to perform."

Talking about the fabulous choreography by Anuradha, Sonali shared, "I am a very scared dancer but I have always wanted to learn dance. I wish I was choreographed by you because the scene is so wonderfully choreographed."

"This scene I wish I would have been able to do. A choreographer should understand the scene, and the story and choreograph the dance accordingly. I wish you choreograph me one day!" 'India's Best Dancer 3' airs on Sony Entertainment Television.

MUMBAI, (IANS) Singer Jubin Nautiyal says his new song 'Hai Kaisi Kaisi' is special as it captures the pain of separation. Nautiyal is all set to release his self-written ballad song 'Hai Kaisi Kaisi', co-composed by Rocky Khanna, sung by Jubin. The singer recently took to his social media sharing a sneak peak into the song and we see the chemistry between Nautiyal and Samyra Moreir. Excited about his new song, Nautiyal said: "Love knows no boundaries, but distance can test its limits. 'Hai Kaisi Kaisi' is a special song for me that captures the pain of separation in a way that will touch your heart."

"As an artiste, it's always challenging to try something new but you want a listener to feel the emotions behind the journey. The song evokes certain emotions which will stir your soul. I hope they enjoy this one." The song will release on May 11.

KIRTI KULHARI CHOPS OFF HER LONG TRESSES, GETS A CREW CUT

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood actress Kirti

Kulhari has stunned everyone after chopping off her long tresses into a crew cut. She said she has not done it for a role but for herself and feel empowered. Kirti took to Instagram reels, where she shared a video montage of herself in her new look. She captioned it: "New endings, new beginnings. Decided to do this a month back and here I am, having done it. I work in an industry where being a heroine comes with its own set of restrictions and limitations." "Long hair or at least shoulder length hair is an unsaid mandate. Here I am, almost 15 years later, in the industry, doing my thing. I have no time to not do what I want to do... and each time I have done something which is not the norm, I have felt empowered and nothing short of it." She added: "Here I am, making another such choice and living my life my way. Thank you Aavni @happyinthehead for always being my partner in crime. Only love for you... PS: no it's for not any role. It's FOR ME..." Kirthi's fans were excited to see her embrace a new haircut and live life her way.

I AM A VERY SCARED DANCER, BUT ALWAYS WANTED TO LEARN

AAMIR KHAN IN KATHMANDU FOR MEDITATION

KATHMANDU, (IANS) Famous Bollywood actor Aamir Khan arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday and left for meditation. He has reportedly gone to a meditation spot in the ou tskirts of Kathmandu, according to an official who received him at the airport. He will spend at least 11 days in Nepal Vipassana

Centre in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu. It is one of the popular meditation centres in Kathmandu located on the outskirts of the city. It offers 10-day long meditation courses, according to the website. Khan is one of the most popular actors in Bollywood, known for his versatile acting skills and his commitment to quality cinema. His popular movies are Lagaan, 3 Idiots, PK, Dil Chahta Hai, Rang De Basanti, among others.

DINO JAMES HOPES TO WORK WITH ROHIT SHETTY AFTER 'KHATRON KE KHILADI 13'

PRIYANKA CHOPRA DESCRIBES FILMING 'LOVE AGAIN' AS TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE

LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas was forced to cope with a "daunting atmosphere" on 'Love Again'. The 40-year-old actress stars in the new romantic comedy film alongside Sam Heughan and Celine Dion but admits it was tricky to generate the emotions required as the picture was filmed in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

"It was nuts at that time. It was tough, but it was a scary time in the world. As actors, we're the ones that have to take off our masks on set. I was terrified, honestly, in the beginning. It was a very scary, daunting atmosphere, and we were doing a romantic comedy - we had to bring lightness and fun to set in this daunting atmosphere," she recalled to Entertainment Weekly, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"We really leaned on each other to create a fun environment on set with each other. We would laugh and crack jokes and tried to find the

joy so that we could inspire and infuse ourselves as well. But it wasn't easy." Priyanka stars in the film as Mira Ray, who - struggling to cope with the death of her fiance - sends romantic messages to his old phone number, which has been reassigned to journalist Rob Burns (Heughan). Rob is drawn to Mira's beautiful texts and seeks Celine Dion's assistance to find her in real life when he is tasked with writing a feature about the 'My Heart Will Go On' singer. Sam admits that the pandemic was one of the main reasons he accepted the chance to play the male lead in the film.

The 'Outlander' star said, "I think we were all ready for it. After the lockdowns and being in isolation, everyone was ready to feel joy again. That's why this was such a well-timed movie to make. I think we all, certainly after the pandemic and everything else that's going on in the world, needed this kind of movie and this kind of message."

JLO REGRETS NOT GETTING MORE ACTION ROLES WHEN SHE WAS YOUNGER

LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Actress-singer Jennifer Lopez laments that she should have landed more action roles when she was younger.

After spending many years making rom-coms, Lopez mixed things up with her latest projects 'Shotgun Wedding' -- in which she took on more action sequences -- and 'The Mother' -- in which she plays a former assassin who comes out of hiding to protect her daughter -- and the actress said she enjoys the thrill of playing a tough character onscreen, reports aceshowbiz.com. "(The Mother) was a lot of fun (and also) a lot of work... (I wish I had gotten) these types of roles that I'm getting now, funnily enough, when I was a little bit more, you know, spry. But a little bit, you know, younger... (They are) kind of empowering, and it makes me feel strong and good. And it was great," Jennifer explained on "The View". The actress went on to explain movies bosses decided to carefully plan out the fight scenes for 'The Mother' so Jennifer could use her time more efficiently. Jennifer added: "We have to be efficient. I can't be fighting eight hours a day. After like an hour, I'm like, OK. So they had to be really efficient and they choreographed it almost like a dance, which is good for me since I'm a dancer." During the interview, Jennifer also opened up about her marriage to fellow film star Ben Affleck, revealing he's a brilliant dad to her twins from her marriage to Marc Anthony.

NEW DELHI, (IANS) Popular rapper Dino James, who has participated in the stunt-based reality show 'Khatron Ke Khiladi' Season 13, aspires to work with the host and filmmaker Rohit Shetty. Asked if he would be making music based on his experience on the show once he's out, Dino told IANS: "No, I think me and Rohit bhai (Rohit Shetty) will be making a movie, I guess. I am aiming for that... Will produce music... Would make music with Rohit bhai. I would like to scale up."

Is Bollywood the next step for Dino, who has made hits such as rose to fame with his tracks 'Girlfriend', 'Yaadein', 'Hancock', 'Maa' and 'Woh' to name a few.

He said: "Wherever I am comfortable. Wherever Dino can be Dino James, I would want to do everything. We grew up watching Bollywood. Bollywood is in our blood. How can you ignore that? It is our life. So, I want to be Dino James, I don't want to change that. I want to do things that I have been doing." The show will air on Colors.

STARRING: BHUMI PEDNEKAR, NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI, SUMEET VYAS, SHARIB HASHMI

DIRECTOR: SUDHIR MISHRA

RATING: 2.5/5

AFWAAH REVIEW: NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI-BHUMI PEDNEKAR FILM IS CLASSIC CASE OF NOBLE ATTEMPT GONE WRONG

How bad can rumours be? Can they blur the lines between truth and fiction? What role does the media, the fourth pillar of the democracy, play in disseminating a rumour? How often do they propagate a false narrative to keep the wheel of breaking news running? What kind of power does the new-age media wield? And what goes behind the politics of skyrocketing views? Veteran director Sudhir Mishra’s latest outing Afwaah deals with one of the most relevant issues of our times – false propaganda and its socio-political ramifications. Needless to say, it hits home, rather too close.

Mishra began his career with late filmmaker Kundan Shah’s satirical comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron in 1983, which dealt with rampant corruption in Indian politics, news media and business. In 1987, he marked his directorial debut with Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin, which touched upon the motifs of student activism and political skirmishes. Over the years, he became synonymous with films that made social and moral commentaries. Afwaah is no different and interestingly, his career almost comes a full circle with this social and human drama. Afwaah is set in a small constituency named Sawalpur in the northwestern India. Vikram Singh, a local politician, aspires to win the next state elections and is set to get married to Nivi Singh, the daughter of one of the most influential political members with who he has formed a coalition. While canvassing for the election one day, Vikram gets injured when a peaceful campaign suddenly turns violent. During the scuffle, he whispers something into the ears of Chandan, one of his trusted aides, following which the latter holds a dagger and marches towards a meat shop killing the Muslim butcher who runs it. The entire episode gets caught on a reporter’s camera. When it gets aired, trouble arises as people assume that Chandan killed the butcher on Vikram’s order. On watching the news, Nivi is devastated. She decides to break off her engagement with him and runs away one night. While on the run, she meets Rahab Ahmed, an ad-man, who has returned home after a stint in America. Soon, rumours are made to float around that it’s a case of Love Jihad wherein Rahab has kidnapped Nivi and forcefully wants to get married to her. Vikram decides to circulate a video of Nivi and Rahab’s alleged elope to save his own image and soon, it starts spreading like a wildfire. How a rumour, much like a ruthless monster, holds the power to taint lives and careers follows the crux of Afwaah. The film has a fantastic and extremely nuanced premise on paper. It could have captured the imagination of the audience, made them sit up and think deep. It could have been so much more. But it doesn’t because the lofty promises made fizzle out like a damp firecracker soon enough. While it manages to touch upon every aspect of how rumours are often misconstrued as the gospel truth and the role that traditional and digital media play in reinforcing

VIDEO OF KATY PERRY STRUGGLING TO FIND HER SEAT AT CHARLES III'S CORONATION GOES VIRAL

the same, the story of Afwaah never really tugs at your heartstrings. The characters go through the murkiest agony but your heart never goes out to them. The interplay of greed, power and ambition in a politically charged climate of today is explored but it doesn’t lend much to the narrative. The writing is bumpy and the execution has several loopholes and there are many questions that are left unanswered. We are, time and again, told that phone networks aren’t at their best in the desert but the makers decide to make phones and internet work at their own convenience. While in one scene, a doctor tells Rahab that all phone lines are jammed due to the imposition of Section 144, in the next scene, we see Vikram making calls without the slightest deterrence. In another sequence, a dance performance at the Nahargarh Literature Festival is made to stop after a framed perpetrator tries to barge inside the palace but in the subsequent scenes, the makers constantly make use of intercuts and jump cuts to shift from a gruesome scene to the dance performance. Even at two hours and six minutes, Afwaah seems too long. The film picks up only towards the second part of the first half and dips again towards the end of the second half. It boasts of a plethora of some incredible actors but most of them have their characters under-written. Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Rahab Ahmed suffers because this character has a flat graph. Despite his beaming brilliance and fresh avatar, he doesn’t get to play around with emotions and situations. Unfortunately, the signature spark of Nawazuddin is missing here.

Bhumi Pednekar plays Nivi Singh. On the surface, this is a character that has a spine, a mind and a voice. But we hardly get to see any of that. Mishra is known for sketching some brilliant female characters in a career spanning four decades. Chameli (2004), Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2005), Yeh Saali Zindagi (2011), for instance. But Nivi is quite unimpressive. It’s almost as if she’s cut from the same cloth as Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare’s (2020) Kitty, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan’s (2017) Sugandha and Dum Laga Ke Haisha’s (2015) Sandhya. Sumeet Vyas essays the greedy, manipulative and controlling Vikram Singh. His is the only character that stands out. And Sumeet does a remarkable job as the anti-hero. It’s a positive leap from his last outing as an antagonist, Mrs Undercover (where he played a cold-blooded serial killer). In Afwaah, he easily steals the show with his subdued charm. Sharib Hashmi as Chandan also delivers an impressive act.

Afwaah might be a realistic tale but it gives in to poetic justice eventually. It is a classic case of a great, noble and bold attempt gone wrong. Its honest and daring themes and statements go awry simple because the written word doesn’t translate to the screen with the same effervesce, grit and gumption.

SRK, NAYANTHARA-STARRER 'JAWAN' TO HIT THE SCREENS ON SEPTEMBER 7

MUMBAI, (IANS) Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming film 'Jawan' with Tamil superstars Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi has been locked for a September 7 release. King Khan, basking in the blockbuster success of 'Pathaan', and his producer-wife Gauri Khan took to social media to make the announcement. They also shared a poster of the film, which has been helmed by award-winning director Atlee. In the poster, SRK is seen wearing a mask as he jumps with an iron rod in his hand. It has 'Jawan' written on it.

Both SRK and Gauri Khan captioned it: "#Jawan #7thSeptember2023". An action thriller, 'Jawan' features the music of Ashvin Ravichandran and also cameos by Deepika Padukone, Vijay, Sanjay Dutt and Allu Arjun.

BADE MIYAN CHOTE MIYAN BLOCKS EID 2024; AKSHAY KUMAR AND TIGER SHROFF APPEAR IN ACTION PACKED AVATARS

The much-anticipated movie Bade Miyan Chote Miyan has blocked EID 2024 for its release. Next year, the Eid will not be of Salman Khan but Akshay Kumar will be seen giving Eidi to the fans. Akshay and Tiger Shroff share many BTS photos from the film in which they can be seen in a action-packed avatar. They also gave a sneak peek into an insane camaraderie to one of the high-octane action sequences of the film. Featuring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff along with Prithviraj Sukura man who plays the powerful antagonist; this magnum opus Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is set to redefine the genre of actionentertainment in Bollywood. The film has been shot across unseen and exotic locales across Scotland, London, India & UAE; with the biggest technical and international action crews. Studded with a mega-star cast, international action sequences, and all the big-screen masala entertainment, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is touted to be one of the biggest action entertainers of the year and the most awaited and talked about film of 2024 Director Ali Abbas Zafar shared, "I am delighted to be an integral part of such a big franchise. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is very close to the audience's heart and bringing all the entertaining elements in this mass entertainer for the audience was a tough and enjoyable experience. On top of all, having slated its release for EID 2024, it will definitely be a treat for the audience to enjoy the festival with power-packed entertainment!"

LONDON, (IANS) A video of singer Katy Perry looking for her seat at King Charles III's coronation has taken over the Internet. However, she found her seat, says the singer.

A video of Katy in which she is looking confused as she is in search of her seat for King Charles III's coronation in Westminster Abbey on Saturday. After the clip went viral, she joked about the moment. The singer, who looked drop dead gorgeous in lavender coloured Vivienne Westwood suit, dropped a hilarious note, saying: "don't worry guys I found my seat."

Apart from Perry, others who were seen at the coronation included actresseses Judi Dench, Emma Thompson, actor Stephen Fry, singer Lionel Richie, adventurer Bear Grylls and Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones, among many others. The 2,200-strong congregation who gathered to watch the St Edward's Crown being placed atop King Charles' III head includes members of the royal family, including Prince Harry consigned to the third row, politicians, aristocrats, international dignitaries and celebrities.

RICHARD DREYFUSS SLAMS NEW DIVERSITY REQUIREMENTS FOR OSCAR CONTENTION

LOS ANGELES, (IANS) Oscar-winning actor Richard Dreyfuss issued some criticism for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' new diversity and inclusion standards, saying that the updated requirements for Oscar contention "make me vomit."

Dreyfuss' comments came during a wide-ranging interview on PBS' 'Firing Line With Margaret Hoover', in which the actor discussed civics education in the US, partisan discourse and the Academy's diversity inclusion initiative, reports 'Variety'. "It's an art. No one should be telling me as an artist that I have to give in to the latest, most current idea of what morality is. What are we risking? Are we really risking hurting people's feelings? You can't legislate that," Dreyfuss said. "You have to let life be life. I'm sorry, I don't think there is a minority or majority in the country that has to be catered to like that." The four new diversity and inclusion standards were first announced in 2020; they will be instituted for the upcoming 2024 Academy Awards, with two of the four needing to be fulfilled for a valid submission for best picture.

TAYLOR SWIFT TO RELEASE RE-RECORDED VERSION OF 'SPEAK NOW' ON JULY 7

NASHVILLE, (IANS) Taylor Swift let fans in her hometown of Nashville be the first to get the official news: 'Speak Now' will be the next album in her 'Taylor's Version' series of re-recorded albums, reports 'Variety'.

Swift is giving fans plenty of time to pre-order the violet vinyl. She revealed that it's coming out in all formats on July 7, 'Variety' notes. "I think rather than me speaking about it, I thought I would show you," she said, to screams, as fans realised from the language that the longawaited announcement was at hand.

The singer directed the attention of her fans to the big screens, where the album cover and release date were shown, before she launched into the 'Speak Now' track 'Sparks Fly' as a surprise song, according to 'Variety'. Taking to Twitter, Swift said: "I first made 'Speak Now', completely self-written, between the ages of 18 and 20. The songs that came from this time in my life were marked by their brutal honesty, unfiltered diaristic confessions and wild wistfulness." She added: "I love this album because it tells a tale of growing up, flailing, flying and crashing ... and living to speak about it. With six extra songs I've sprung loose from the vault ... ." 'Speak Now', reports 'Variety', was a landmark album for Swift 13 years ago, becoming the first and only album for which she was the sole songwriter on all the tracks -- seen at the time as a reaction to cynics who believed that the young singer's co-writers must have done the heavier lifting on her first two albums. Having made the point, Swift resumed working with writing collaborators on the following release, 'Red'. The album is also remembered for marking Swift's more decided turn towards pop, from her country origins, even though it would be another couple of albums before she firmly declared herself a pop artiste. At the same time, it signified a move into still-bolder songwriting, as in 'Dear John', still one of Swift's most strikingly raw songs to date. Six songs from the album charted in the Billboard Hot 100.

THE KERALA STORY REVIEW: HARROWING AND HORRIFYING STORIES THAT YOU WISH WEREN'T TRUE

Afilm review, in many ways, is a perspective. If one were to be honest, it is history that will judge a film best particularly with respect to the intentions of a filmmaker and the veracity of their claims. In the case of Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s production The Kerala Story, it has been in the news for a while now. While the makers have consistently defended their work, the only way to judge this film was by watching it. Starring Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Bilani and Siddhi Idnani, the film is two hours long and is more or less engaging throughout.

Director Sudipto Sen does not waste any time in getting to the point.

Rather than following a linear narrative, Sen skillfully chooses to go back and forth in time, this way, he succeeds in gaining his viewer’s unflinching attention. In one moment you are in the midst of Kerala’s lush greenery and the very next, you are transported to barren nauseating terrains stretching out into oblivion.

It is hard to write a review without delving into the sensitive aspects of what the film aims to say. There are four women at the helm. Of them, two are Hindus, one a practicing Christian and one Muslim. Adah Sharma as Shalini makes the most of this opportunity as a gullible college student who turns into an indoctrinated victim. Her transformation from Shalini to Fatima sees her undergo a massive adulterated change yet she retains a bit of her innocence throughout. After a string of unsuccessful attempts at garnering the attention of the Hindi film-going audiences, this performance might stand out in her filmography.

Sonia Balain plays Asifa the most audacious of the lot. Yogita Bihani as Nimah and Siddhi Idnani as Geetanjali complete the list

of friends around whom the entire story revolves. Sen’s screenplay largely concerns itself with how the alleged entrapment of Hindu girls work. For those unaware, the term ‘love jihad’ was first used by the Catholic Church in Kerala. He blames deracination for their predicament. He seems to suggest that atheists and Hindus, who have no particular interest in their religion, tend to get radicalized faster that those who are practicing believers. This comes across in two instances, but more vividly when one of the characters blames her father for teaching her about “foreign ideas like communism” before educating her about her own culture and religion.

As the diabolical design unfolds, the portrayal of the parents as mere helpless bystanders only adds to the agony. There are scenes of graphic violence which may perturb the viewers. The performances become the victim of a few liberties. Hindi spoken by the characters is exponentially more than what it is in Kerala. The intent here is to make the audience understand what is being said. However, this attempt at a peculiar concoction of Hindi infused in lengthy Malayalam dialogues seems forced. Somehow, in places, the characters are able to get the accent right but the language spoken by them comes across as grossly unconvincing. Perhaps those who do not speak Malayalam will not even come to know of it. The locations depicting Afghanistan seem to be shot in Ladakh. The terrains look convincing. Music, barring its use in a few places, add to the haunting aura that lingers throughout the film. Kerala Story is a technically sound film and might interest even those who oppose it.

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL 3 REVIEW: JAMES GUNN DELIVERS MOST EMOTIONAL MOVIE IN HIS LAST MCU RIDE

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 Review: Seated in a packed theatre, surrounded by fans, influencers, and fellow critics, I battled a sinking feeling as the trademark logo of the Marvel Studios played out. Unlike most Marvel movies in the past, which featured either strip of comics or the Avengers, James Gunn decided to pay tribute to the characters of the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3. It was at this moment that I knew it was going to be an emotional ride for GotG fans and I should have carried a box of tissues. The last of the three-part trilogy (excluding the Christmas special), Guardians of the Galaxy reunite for one last time in the James Gunn directorial, and this time, it is all for Rocket Raccoon (voiced by Bradley Cooper). As the trailers already revealed that Rocket’s secret past is finally out of the bag and he lies on his deathbed after an attack by Adam Warlock (Will Poulter). The Guardians learn that Rocket has a ‘kill switch’ installed on his heart which prevents him from receiving any medical support except for the one coded into his files during his experimentation.

It is eventually revealed that the chip was installed by the sinister High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji) and Rocket was merely an IP that was being used to test animals in order to make an Earth-like civilization. Learning that the codes to save Rocket are in the hands of the High Evolutionary on the Counter-Earth, Star-Lord aka Peter Quill (played by Chris Pratt) takes help from Gamora (Zoe Saldaña) and join Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista), Nebula (Karen Gillan) and Mantis (Pom Klementieff) to save his best friend.

The two hours and 29 minutes movie hits it home when it comes to fan service. James Gunn is fully aware that he is marching towards the exit door since the first scene starts playing out and he does

everything in his control to give the characters he worked on for over a decade now a fitting tribute. The filmmaker puts together a string of emotional scenes, emphasising on the role of friendships in his vision of the MCU to the extent that it mirrors his bond with each character and cast of the film. You can truly tell that James loved these people and the roles they played when the curtains start to close.

The writing by Gunn is impressive. He gives a closing arc to each Guardian, making you root for every single character — even the ‘reset’ Gamora and the newly introduced Adam Warlock, who has been brought into the picture as a threat to the Guardians. As though Guardians did not already feel like superheroes who were more human, Gunn hits it out of the park when he shows the characters vulnerable, facing their fears and conquering, leaving no dry eye in the house. I had tears rolling down my cheek at least twice in the last hour of the film.

While the emotionally charged storyline stands out, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 aces on the comedy front as well, giving Drax, Kraglin Obfonteri (Sean Gunn), and Cosmo (voiced by Maria Bakalova) a lot of space to explore their comical side. Drax truly emerges as one of the most memorable characters in the film. The screenplay, however, is a little choppy in the first half. Given that Gunn was stitching together new characters with old and new motives, it starts to feel like a lot is going on. The flashbacks from Rocket’s experimental days, the side plot of Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki) and Adam Warlock, and the Guardians’ chase to retrieve the data to help Rocket are packed together in half-hour, which feels a tad bit heavy. However, Gunn irons it out well once the pawns are placed.

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's blockbuster 'Pathaan' will now become the first Hindi film to release in Bangladesh post 1971. It is set to release on May 12 in Bangladesh. Nelson D'Souza, Vice President, International Distribution, said, "Cinema has always been a unifying force between nations, races and cultures. It transcends borders, galvanises people and plays a significant hand in bringing people together." "We are incredibly thrilled that 'Pathaan', which has done historic business worldwide, will now get a chance to entertain audiences in Bangladesh!" He adds, "Pathaan becomes the first Hindi film to release in Bangladesh post 1971 and we are thankful to the authorities for their decision. We have learnt over the years that Shah Rukh Khan has tremendous fan following in Bangladesh and we feel Pathaan, our latest offering from YRF's Spy Universe, is the perfect first film of SRK & Hindi cinema to release in the country and represent Indian culture and cinema in its full glory." 'Pathaan' is also the highest grossing film of the fabled YRF's Spy Universe that also includes blockbusters like 'Ek Tha Tiger', 'Tiger Zinda Hai' and 'War'.

NICK JONAS SAYS HIS WIFE PRIYANKA IS A 'BOSS', PRAISES 'CITADEL' TEAM

MUMBAI, (IANS) American pop star Nick Jonas cannot stop gushing about his wife Priyanka Chopra Jonas as he calls her "boss" after seeing her performance in the series 'Citadel'. Nick took to Instagram Stories to share a poster of Citadel featuring Priyanka with her co-stars and fellow spies Richard Madden and Stanley Tucci. It had 'Citadel, no. 1 title on Prime Video' written on it.

Captioning the poster, he wrote: "My wife is a boss. Congrats to the entire Citadel and Prime Video family."

The first three episodes of Citadel are out right on Prime Video, and new episodes will be released every Friday and the finale on May 26. Filled with action, thrill and drama, the series stars Priyanka, Richard Madden and Stanley Tucci.

RS 35 CR SET TO BE CONSTRUCTED FOR SALMAN-SRK'S SEQUENCE IN 'TIGER 3'

MUMBAI, (IANS) For the sequence for 'Tiger 3' featuring superstars Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, a set worth a whopping Rs 35 crore will be created. The action sequence that is set to be shot from May 8 is rumoured to be a jailhouse sequence where Pathaan returns Tiger's favour as the latter had helped him out of a tricky situation in 'Pathaan'. A source said: "When you have SRK & Salman in one film, you got to do justice to their superstardom to create an experience like never before. Pathaan did that brilliantly and now Tiger 3 will try and do the same." "The two iconic actors are going to do a hugely scaled adrenaline pumping action sequence in 'Tiger 3' and Aditya Chopra is going all out to mount this sequence. He is shelling out Rs 35 crore to build a set that can present this sequence in the most glorious way possible!" the source added. 'Tiger 3' starring Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif as Zoya and Emraan Hashmi as Tiger's nemesis is set to release this Diwali.

STARRING: VIKRAM, KARTHI, JAYAM RAVI, AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN, TRISHA KRISHNAN, SOBHITA DHULIPALA DIRECTOR: MANI RATNAM RATING: 3.5/5

MOVIE REVIEW

STARRING: CHRIS PRATT, ZOE SALDANA, DAVE BAUTISTA, KAREN GILLAN, BRADLEY COOPER, VIN DIESEL, POM KLEMENTIEFF DIRECTOR: JAMES GUNN RATING: 4/5

MOVIE REVIEW

ANDRE RUSSELL, RINKU SINGH HELP KOLKATA PULL OFF NAIL-BITER AGAINST PUNJAB

KKR VS PBKS: KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS DEFEATED PUNJAB KINGS BY 5 WICKETS. RINKU SINGH AND ANDRE RUSSELL HELPED KKR WIN IN A DRAMATIC FASHION

Andre Russell and Rinku Singh led Kolkata Knight Riders' charge as they pulled off a nail-biting win over Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata. Chasing a target of 180 on a tricky Kolkata pitch, the duo of Russell and Rinku helped KKR go home with 5 wickets in hand on the very last ball of the game. With this win, KKR have kept their hopes of playoffs very much alive and have made a big jump in the points table.

The chase was well set by captain Nitish Rana and later powered by Rinku and Russell. 26 runs were needed off the 12 balls as Russell and Rinku were in the middle. Russell tonked Sam Curran for three sixes as he collected 20 runs in the 19th over to get KKR on the driver's seat. The final over was tightly bowled by Arsheep Singh but he errored in his line and length on the final delivery. Arshdeep bowled a juicy full toss on RInku's pads and the Southpaw smashed it on the leg side for four to hit the winning runs.

However, it was not easy for KKR in the final over. With 6 needed off 6 balls, Arshdeep kept Russell at bay and gave only 3 runs in the four

bowls that he bowled to him. 2 runs were needed off the final 2 balls and Russell missed his shot and was run out on the non-striker's end. It could have gone any way with 2 needed off the final ball but Rinku, as he has done before, took the team over the line.

Earlier, captain Nitish Rana and Jason Roy steadied the chase after Gurbaz's wicket. But Roy fell for 38 after his 24-ball stay. Venkatesh was soon outdone by Rahul Chahar. Even though Rana too fell to Chahar in the 16th over, Russell and Rinku were enough for the win. Russell ended his innings at 42 off 23 balls, while Rinku remained unbeaten on 21 off 10 balls. Earlier, PBKS managed to get 179 on the back of Dhawan's fifty and contributions from the middle and lower middle order. Dhawan hit 57 off 47 balls, whereas Jitesh Sharma (21 off 18), Rishi Dhawan (19 off 11), Shahrukh Khan (21 off 8) and Harpreet Brar (17 off 9) powered PBKS to a fightable total. After the win, KKR go on 5th place in the IPL Points table with 10 points from 11 games. Meanwhile, PBKS with similar points in the same number of games but have an inferior net run rate.

SUNRISERS HYDERABAD SNATCH VICTORY FROM RAJASTHAN ROYALS JAW, WIN BY 4 WICKETS

SUNRISERS HYDERABAD HAVE MOVED FROM 10TH TO 9TH POSITION AFTER 4 WINS IN 10 MATCHES. ON THE OTHER HAND, RAJASTHAN HAVE LOST THEIR SIXTH MATCH OFF THE 11 GAMES PLAYED BUT ARE STILL ON THE 4TH POSITION.

The 52nd match of IPL 2023 was played between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals. This was Hyderabad's 10th match, while Sanju Samson-led Royals came out to play the 11th match. Till the last moments of this match, the victory was in the hands of Rajasthan, but perhaps fate had other plans. RR won the match by 4 wickets. Sandeep Sharma who had earlier saved the match for Rajasthan in the death overs, almost did so today as well. But when the last delivery was a no-ball, the tables turned and Abdul Samad hit a six to guide his team to victory in the nai-biting thriller. In this match, Rajasthan captain Sanju Samson won the toss and decided to bat first. SRH gave veteran Joe Root a chance to debut and dropped their most expensive player Harry Brook to include Glenn Phillips in the playing 11. Batting first, Rajasthan scored 214/2 in 20 overs. Sanju Samson scored an unbeaten 66 off 38 balls. On the other hand, Jos Buttler missed his century by 5 runs as he smashed 95 runs off just 59 balls. On the other hand for the Sunrisers, Abhishek Sharma scored 55 and Rahul Tripathi scored 47 runs. But the turning point of the match was Glenn Phillips' innings. He scored 25 off just 7 balls to lead the team closer to the win and Samad did the remaining job in the last over. Talking about the points table, after this victory, the Sunrisers Hyderabad have moved from 10th to 9th position after 4 wins in 10 matches. Delhi Capitals have once again slipped to the last position. On the other hand, Rajasthan have lost their sixth match off the 11 games played but are still on the 4th position.

ASIA CUP LIKELY TO MOVE OUT OF PAKISTAN, SRI LANKA MAY HOST THE TOURNAMENT: REPORTS

Asian Cricket Council expected to move the Asia Cup out of Pakistan, which was origina lly scheduled to host the continental tournament. Last year, BCCI secretary and ACC chairman Jay Shah had made it clear that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan for the Continental championship and demanded that the event be moved to a neutral venue.

Pakistan, on the other hand, has even threatened to boycott the ODI World Cup, which will be played in India in October-November. According to an India Today report, the Asia cup could be shifted entirely to a new country, with Sri Lanka coming up as the frontrunner to host the tournament.

Interestingly, the Island nation failed to host the Asia Cup last year due to the economic crisis, as a result of which the tournament was shifted to the UAE. Notably, the ACC president and BCCI secretary Jay Shah had communicated that India would not travel to Pakistan over safety issues and worked in the direction to move the tournament out of Pakistan. In response, PCB proposed a hybrid model that is India playing its matches at an offshore venue and Pakistan hosting the remaining games at home.

Pakistan and India do not play bilateral cricket and only meet in global tournaments or multi-team events since 2013 due to strained political tensions between the two countries. India's last trip to Pakistan was for the 2008 Asia Cup, while Pakistan's last visit to India was for the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup. The two teams last played each other at the 2022 Men's T20 World Cup in Australia.

'BADE LOGON NE BAHUT KUCH BOLA HAI MERE KO' - NITISH RANA SLAMS CRITICS AFTER KKR'S WIN OVER PBKS IN IPL 2023

KKR captain Nitish Rana has come down hard on the critics after his team's win over Punjab Kings in the 53rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL). KKR gunned down a 180-run target on a slow pitch at the Eden Gardens in the last-ball thriller and Rana played a crucial role in steering the team through in the early phase of the innings. He smashed 51 runs off just 38 balls with 6 fours and 1 six before getting out in the 16th over of the innings. Speaking to the IPL broadcasters Star Sports after the match, Rana opened up about all the criticism he has faced in his career so far. He felt that he has been criticized unfairly and revealed that people have called him personally as well before to talk about his shortcomings. "Main naam nahi loonga, magar bahut bade logon ne bahut kuch bola hain mere ko directly phone kar ke (I won't take names but many big names have said a lot to me and have even called me directly at times),: Rana said. This is not the first time this season that Nitish Rana has stood up with the bat leading from the front for his side. He had smashed 28 runs off SRH speedster Umran Malik earlier and opened up on how he overcame his weakness - playing short balls. "Yes, I have worked on the short ball and it is showing in my batting. Because many people have criticised me for not playing short ball well. And this year I worked on both my weakness and fitness," Rana added.

ROHIT SHARMA SHOULD TAKE BREAK FOR TIME BEING: SUNIL GAVASKAR SUGGESTS

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar feels that Team India and Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma whose performance has recently been underwhelming should take a break for a while. In the Chennai Super Kings match against MI on Saturday, Rohit got dismissed for a duck in the second consecutive game.

Gavaskar believes Rohit's confidence has been affected after a prolonged run of poor scores in the IPL and he should prepare for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia by taking a break from the T20 League.

"I would say that Rohit should maybe take a break for the time being, and keep himself fit for the World Test Championship final," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.

"He can come back again for the last few matches, but right now, (he should) take a little bit of a breather himself," he added. The WTC final is scheduled to be held at the Oval in London from June 7-11. It was a forgettable outing for Team MI and the biggest setback for them was the current form of their captain, who was dismissed within the powerplay for the eighth time this season.

"We had an off-day as a batting unit. We just did what we felt was comfortable (on him going down to 3), needed an Indian batter to bat in the middle overs against spin after unfortunately losing Tilak Varma, but we lost three wickets for just 16 runs," Rohit said after the match.

"Piyush Chawla bowling really well, the other bowlers need to rally around him, that's what the team needs, everyone has to come forward and chip in contributions. There's no such home advantage this season, everyone has won and lost at home, we need to do all three departments of the game, we'll play at home in the next two games, and we'll see how it goes," he added.

SANJU SAMSON SURPASSES SACHIN TENDULKAR, KL RAHUL IN BIG MILESTONES

Rajasthan Royals suffered another disappointing defeat as they lost against Sunrisers Hyderabad by four wickets despite posting a 200-plus total on May 7. Rajasthan's inconsistent form put them in the fourth position in the points table with just five wins in 11 games. But the Royals' camp will be happy to see Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson returning to form with brilliant fifties against SRH. Buttler top-scored with 95 off 59 while skipper Samson smashed 66* off 38 to end poor form in IPL 2023.

Samson also smashed four fours and five sixes during his sensational knock against SRH and achieved some big milestones. With his four fours, Samson reached the 300-four mark in IPL and became the only 22nd player to do so. He surpassed the legendary Indian batter Sachin Tendulkar in this list, who had recorded 295 fours from just 78 IPL games for Mumbai Indians. Punjab Kings skipper Shikhar Dhawan leads the most fours in the IPL chart with 729 fours, followed by David Warner, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, and Rohit Sharma in the top-five chart.

AFTER KL RAHUL, LSG LOSE ANOTHER KEY PLAYER FOR THE REST OF IPL 2023

Lucknow Super Giants are going through a tough time in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With two losses and one no result in last three matches, LSG have found themselves in a little bit of trouble. Moreover, they have lost their regular s kipper KL Rahul due to injury for the rest of the season as well with Krunal Pandya taking up the mantle. Now with playoffs race getting tighter with every match, LSG have lost their key fast bowler Mark Wood for the remainder of IPL season too. He left the camp on Sunday after the team's encounter against Gujarat Titans that they lost by 56 runs. Wood and his wife are expecting a baby soon and the cricketer wants to be at home during this special moment. Wood's loss is huge given the fact that LSG are struggling big time with the ball having conceded 227 runs in their previous en counter. Wood was one of the top bowlers for them and is the second highest wicket-taker despite playing only four matches. He had picked up 11 wickets before going down to illness and didn't play the last few matches for the franchise. While it seems unlikely that he will come back, Wood is hopeful that he will be back to play the backend of the season.

"For the birth of my daughter, so sadly, but a good reason to go home. Hopefully, I might be able to come back, and you can see me play a game. I am sorry that unfortunately, haven't played more, in the four games I played, managed to get a few wickets, but hopef ully I can charge in again. One last push to try and get in those playoffs and make the finals. That's the goal and as a group, we understand that. It's tough in sports, you win some you lose some but the lads are training hard. I've seen that myself and I know how hard people are working.

RAVI SHASTRI GIVES ADVICE TO VIRAT KOHLI OVER STRIKE RATE DEBATE, SAYS DON'T WORRY ABOUT OTHER BATTERS

Royal Challengers Bangalore batter Virat Kohli returned among runs in the Indian Premier League 2023 after having a couple of moderate IPL campaigns. The former RCB captain has been among the leading run-scorers this season and has already made over 400 runs at an average of above 45. Kohli opens alongside RCB captain Faf du Plessis and has shared some big partnerships with the Proteas star. Meanwhile, Kohli's strike rate after the powerplay has come under scrutiny and cricket experts are having a say on it. Recently, India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has given a piece of advice to Kohli on the ongoing debate. Shastri has said that Kohli should not change the tempo of his batting and should not worry even if RCB's middle order looks thin. "Once you gain tempo, don't change, don't worry about the others. That will be my message to Virat. Let them do their job. In a T20 game, you don't need that many batsmen. If you are hot keep that going. A prime example of that was Phil Salt. You saw the way he batted. Once he got into the groove he didn't let go," Shastri said to ESPNCricinfo. He added that Salt's approach took the burden off the other DC batters and Virat should do the same and up the ante. "It took the pressure off the other batsmen. Having said, even they were hammering whether it was Marsh or Roussow. So that is something that could be there from Virat's point of view. If he gets going don't change your tempo, try and up the ante," he added.

VIRAT DOESN'T PLAY THE FIRST BALL

LIKE THIS: MS DHONI CITES RCB

BATTER'S NAME IN CSK LOCKER ROOM

Chennai Super Kings are having a wonderful season as they are in second place in the IPL 2023 Points table. MS Dhoni's side has won 6 out of 11 games with one being a no-result outing and have 13 points in their bag. They defeated Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians in their last match on Saturday at their home venue of MA Chidambaram Stadium by 6 wickets. The openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway and Shivam Dube made MI's work light and chased down the target of 140 with ease. Notably, after the match MS Dhoni was seen citing Royal Challengers Bangalore batter Virat Kohli's name in CSK's dressing room. In a being surfaced on social media, Dhoni is seen talking to one of his CSK members and referring to Kohli's style of play. "Virat doesn’t play the first ball like this. It is always here," Dhoni was heard saying in Chennai's dressing room. Notably, there is also a Television visible in the dressing room where RCB's match against Delhi Capitals was being played. Chennai emphatically returned to winnings ways in their 11th game against MI. They did not win a game before the reverse fixture against Mumbai for two weeks. CSK's three games before the MI clash, handed Dhoni's men only one point, courtesy of a washout against Lucknow Super Giants. They are back in the top 2 and are positioned well to finish there with three games in hand.

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CANADA'S HOUSING MARKETS HEAT UP THIS SPRING

TOYOTA CANADA RELEASES APRIL SALES RESULTS

TORONTO– Record-setting electrified vehicles led the way for Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) in April, representing 48.1% of overall sales. Both Toyota and Lexus divisions saw record electrified vehicle uptake last month. Electrified vehicles represented 48.2% of all Toyota units sold in April 2023, led by record April sales for RAV4 Hybrid, Corolla Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid and Tundra Hybrid. Electrified vehicles also represented 47.0% of all Lexus units sold in April 2023, with NX Hybrid, NX PHEV and RX Hybrid all setting April sales records.

Best month ever for Lexus

Lexus had its best month ever, selling 3,061 units, up 21.2% from April 2022. Toyota division sold 16,555 units, down 7.0% from April 2022. Overall, TCI sold 19,616 vehicles in April 2023, down 3.5% from April 2022. Made in Canada Toyota and Lexus vehicles assembled in Canada led the way in April. Sales of the best-selling passenger vehicle in Canada, the Toyota RAV4, were up 21.3%, led by record April sales of the RAV4 Hybrid. The Lexus NX and Lexus RX also saw record April sales, including records for their respective Hybrid versions.

There were hints for some time the cyclical bottom would be reached this spring but April pretty much sealed the deal. Early results from real estate boards gave strong indications local markets turned a corner last month. In most cases, activity ramped up significantly (from depressed levels in March) and prices ticked higher. Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary led the way though Montreal wasn’t far behind. While still beset by a sharp loss of affordability in the last couple of years, buyers appear more confident to house hunt now that the Bank of Canada has paused its aggressive rate hike campaign (for good we believe). There were also more properties put up for sale last month. Not a whole lot but probably enough to whet buyers’ appetite.

The coming months should be quite interesting. The other side of the valley promises a better environment for sellers who might have previously been reluctant to sell in a down market. This will hopefully bring in more supply and prop up historically low inventories. The end of price corrections is also poised to spur some market-timing buyers into

action. Both factors would sustain or even extend April’s gains. That said, the lack of affordability will remain a huge issue, especially for first-time buyers. Our view is this will significantly limit any recovery at first. Toronto area—Buyers (and a few sellers) back in the game The market got notably busier in April with resales jumping 27% from March (seasonally adjusted). A 6.5% rise in new listings gave buyers more options to bid on. Still, new sellers only met rebounding demand partway. Demand-supply conditions tightened for a fifth-straight month and now look as firm as they were before the market’s downturn. This helped push the burgeoning price recovery forward. The GTA’s MLS HPI rose for the second consecutive month by 2.4% m/m in April. Further increases are likely to follow if conditions stay this tight. Sellers hold the key to the market’s trajectory to a large extent. Much will depend on the degree to which they make their way back in the game and reshape (currently low) inventories. Our view is that a growing number of them will indeed list their home for sale now that property values have turned a corner. And this should keep any price appreciation relatively contained. Montreal area—Spring is in the air

Warmer seasonal temperatures—and the Bank of Canada’s hitting the pause button—pulled the market out of its deep slumber in April. Resale transactions shot up an estimated 12% m/m, reversing part of the sharp 34% decline since early 2022. Spring—but more so the growing perception the market is bottoming—also reinvigorated sellers but the energy was more subdued on that side of the equation. Resulting fiercer competition for each property available contributed to end the year-long price slide. Median prices for both single-family homes and condominiums rose modestly between March and April. We think tighter demand-supply conditions will support further slight increases in the period ahead.

LOS ANGELES: New Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 continues to spread rapidly in the US, with its prevalence increasing to 12.5 per cent this week, according to the latest data updated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The subvariant, referred to as "arcturus," has become the second dominant strain in the country. It is estimated to account for about 12.5 per cent of new Covid-19 cases this week, up from 8.4 per cent last week, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the CDC data. Experts warned that the percentage is expected to increase in the coming weeks, with XBB.1.16 possibly becoming the next dominant coronavirus strain in the country.

The highly transmissible Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 remains the dominant strain in the US, and accounted for about 66.9 per cent of new Covid-19 cases this week, CDC data showed.

SHEHNAAZ GILL

KRITI SANON

SUNNY LEONE RADHIKA APTE

SONAM BAJWA

ARE YOU A HOMEMAKER? HERE ARE 5 TIPS FOR YOU TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH

HYDRATING, EXFOLIATING TO TAKING A BREAK FROM NAIL PAINTS: ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR NAIL CARE

It's important to take extra care of your nails, which can get dry, brittle, and prone to breakage due to heat and humidity. Staying hydrated is key to keeping your nails healthy and strong. Drink plenty of water and include hydrating foods in your diet, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and strawberries. You can also apply a moisturising hand cream or nail oil to your nails and cuticles to keep them hydrated.

Essential tips for nail care

* Wear gloves: When doing household chores like washing dishes or gardening, wear gloves to protect your nails from harsh chemicals and dirt. This will also help to prevent your nails from getting brittle and breaking.

* Avoid overexposure to the sun: While it's important to get some sun exposure to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D, overexposure can be harmful to your nails. Too much sun can cause your nails to dry out, become discoloured, or even crack. Use a broadspectrum sunscreen on your hands and nails whenever you're outside for extended periods of time.

* Don't forget to exfoliate: Just like your skin, your nails and cuticles can benefit from exfoliation. Use a gentle nail brush or an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells and stimulate blood flow to your nails. This will also help to prevent ingrown nails and keep your cuticles looking healthy.

* Keep your nails short: Long nails may look glamorous, but they can be more prone to breakage and damage in the summer months. Keep your nails short and well-groomed to prevent them from snagging or breaking. This will also make it easier to maintain good nail hygiene.

* Take a break from nail polish: While it's fun to wear nail polish, it's important to give your nails a break from time to time. Constantly wearing nail polish can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage. Give your nails a chance to breathe for a few days after regular intervals By following these tips, you can keep your nails looking and feeling healthy. Remember to stay hydrated, protect your nails from the sun and chemicals, and choose safe nail products. With a little bit of care and attention, you can have strong and beautiful nails all year round.

MEDITATION, EXERCISE TO PRAYERS: DEBUNKING COMMON MISBELIEFS ABOUT GROWING TALLER AFTER CERTAIN AGE

Almost 30-40 years ago, it was said that genes are final. They are ultimate, they control and dominate our growth and health and they put down the blueprint of their diseases. But recently, a lot of modern research and modern science has established that genes can express in different ways; should we discipline ourselves, and build new memory patterns through new behaviour, attitude, thoughts, and intentions? Child development is aimed at children up to 18 years of age and will help facilitate children's height growth with the support of specific exercises, nutritional advice, sensible and effective supplementation, lifestyle changes like - appropriate rest, deep breathing, meditation, and time-to-time positive affirmations. According to IANS, exercises such as: twisting, side bending, forward and b ackward bending, tadasana walk, spot jog, mountain and snake position, jumping jacks, and pawanmuktasana will help improve the posture and therefore, height. Eating melatonin-rich foods such as mustard seeds, sweet potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, nuts, grapes, coconut oil, and raspberries helps to keep blood levels of human growth hormones within a normal range. Eating foods high in tryptophan, such as milk, beans, and eggs, as well as being outside in the sun, will increase your levels of HGH.

Being a homemaker is one of the most difficult tasks in the world and requires a lot of energy the entire day. Housewives are not given enough credit for the work they do. They are not wellinformed about the ill-effects of the exertion they put their bodies through. Homemaking is a 24/7 job and leaves most women exhausted by the end of it, physically and mentally. They have a lot to keep in their minds and sometimes forget that they need care and rejuvenation too. Therefore, it is imperative that they maintain their health in ways that it doesn’t feel like an additional burden.

Following are five tips for housewives to improve and safeguard their health

1. Breakfast is a Must

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it is highly important that it is taken daily. Avoid snacking on junk early in the morning and eat fruits, vegetables, sprouts, and more. Having a healthy breakfast is highly beneficial and will help in keeping you energetic.

2. Drink Ample of Water

It is very important to watch out for your water consumption. Keeping yourself hydrated maximises physical performance, treats, prevents headaches, and many more. Intake of atleast eight litres of water is a must, if not eight then six litres of water per day is a compulsion.

3. Practice yoga and meditation

Meditation helps channelising one’s emotions and keeping the mind calm and composed. Yoga helps with flexibility and overall physical health. This combination is a powerful one and will work wonders if you stay consistent.

4. Try not to Diet!

Instead of dieting, try eating small amounts of all home-cooked food. Starving yourself may create a hopeless situation when you are trying to stay motivated. Eating healthy will help, but dieting may worsen the situation sometimes.

5. Treat Yourself

Congratulate yourself for what you do every day because it takes courage and patience to be a homemaker. Occasionally treating yourself with a pastry or a chocolate won’t do any harm. It will in fact boost your morale and keep you driving.

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"Dreaming of four-season living near the lake?

LIV Communities, in partnership with Bosseini Living, is proud to announce the next phase of two communities in Gravenhurst and Severn:

The Cedars at Brydon Bay near Lake Muskoka, and Serenity Bay near Lake Couchiching.

They feature 36, 49, and 59-foot single-family homes from the low $800’s and wide 30-foot townhomes starting from the high $700’s, all containing modern features and finishes. Join us for our grand opening Sunday, May 7th at our sales centre on Highway 11 just north of Orillia. Visit livenearthelake.ca for details.”

Mango Season: How To Consume Mangoes If You Are Diabetic?

30 UNDER 30: THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST TO ACCOMPLISH BY THE TIME YOU ARE 30

In your 20s, you have the opportunity to grow, explore and discover yourself. It’s a time when you can uncover your true passions, desires, and aspirations. Although there is no guaranteed recipe for success, there are experiences and achievements that can steer you towards a satisfying and rewarding life. These experiences can help you learn, evolve, and contribute to society. They might include personal growth goals, professional pursuits, or travelling to new places. Whether it’s forming meaningful connections or acquiring a new expertise, each of these experiences is aimed at helping you unleash your full potential.

Mangoes, a seasonal fruit mostly available during summer, contain high amounts of glucose and fructose, which can cause concern for individuals with diabetes due to the potential for a blood glucose spike. However, mangoes are also a rich source of several essential nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, betacarotene, and magnesium, which play vital roles in many bodily functions. So, how can we consume mangoes without causing a significant increase in blood glucose levels?

Anupama Menon, nutritionist, shares ways to eat mangoes without any guilt

Eat the fruit, never juice it. Juicing a fruit will remove/ breakdown the fibre present in

Have the fruit as a salad with some seeds/ nuts to reduce the glucose

The fibre and fats present in the nuts/ seeds will reduce the glycemic index of the salad.

Do not consume mangoes with/ before/ after a major meal as it can add on to the glucose load and cause a spike.

Control the portion size you consume. Do not exceed more than 2 slices per day.

Make sure to take mangoes only once or twice a week, not everyday

Mangoes can be taken as a smoothie with yogurt, fruits and peanut butter. This will help in keeping insulin spikes under control and provides a good amount of protein. Hence, can be used as a breakfast option once or twice a week.

TEACHING GOOD MONEY HABITS: THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL PARENTING IN CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Parents are the lens through which a child sees the world. From daily habits to emotional perceptions and attitudes, parents become models for developing essential life skills and values from the early stages. And in today’s world, being street smart, especially when it comes to finances, is critical to ensuring that a child is able to face every challenge in life head-on. In other words, the safety and security that you want your child to have come from financial parenting.

“The age of five marks the beginning of rapid growth in a child. The experience and learnings of this period will have a significant impact on the quality of life they will lead. Thus, contrary to common beliefs that underestimate a child’s learning capacity, financial parenting centered around introducing the basics of money becomes paramount around this time. Having a working knowledge of money, knowing the importance of saving, and understanding the difference between needs and wants will assist your child in defining appropriate financial goals at the right time,” says Palka Arora Chopra, Senior Vice President, mastertrust.

It is also critical to note that even when you are not directly educating children, they are actively observing every act of yo urs to make sense of concepts like spending, saving, borrowing, and even crediting. For instance, if you are stringent while spending, the child can learn the basics of budgeting, though they might not be sure of the reason until told. “On the other hand, if you are a spendthrift who uses credit cards excessively on luxury, the child might develop an easy attitude towards money. However, several other factors also play an important role in shaping emotions, values, and attitudes towards money,” adds Chopra.

Whether you’re just starting your 20s or are already approaching your 30s, it’s never too late to start pursuing these experiences. By making the most of your time and prioritizing personal growth and exploration, you can set yourself up for a bright and successful future. Hence, let’s take a look at 30 things you need to do before your 30s.

Travel to a foreign country: Exploring different cultures and immersing yourself in new experiences will broaden your horizons and help you gain perspective on life.

Learn a new language: Being bilingual or multilingual can open up new opportunities and enhance your understanding of different cultures.

Find your passion: Take time to explore your interests and figure out what you’re truly passionate about. Pursue it with all your heart.

Take a calculated risk: Life is too short to play it safe all the time. Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone will help you grow and learn new things.

Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about: Giving back to your community and making a difference in the lives of others is a rewarding experience.

Build a professional network: Attend networking events, connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, and build relationships that can help you in your career.

Learn to cook: Being able to prepare healthy, delicious meals for yourself and others is a valuable skill that will serve you well for the rest of your life.

Take care of your physical and mental health: Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, eat a balanced diet, and prioritize self-care.

Build an emergency fund: Saving for the future and having a financial safety net can help you weather unexpected expenses or setbacks.

Read regularly: Reading books, articles, and blogs that challenge your thinking and expand your knowledge will help you grow intellectually and become a better thinker.

EAT THESE NUTRIENT-RICH FRUITS TO KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED IN SUMMER

Being a tropical country, summers in India can make us feel drained out and exhausted at the same time, and it is imperative to keep yourself hydrated throughout. Not to forget, the burning heat also causes a plethora of health issues like dehydration, skin sensitivity, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. There is no question that water is necessary for the efficient operation of every system in our body, but other than just drinking water, fruits are also very beneficial to keep us hydrated. As the temperature rises, the scorching sun drains out the water from our bodies, and this is where fruits come to the rescue. Fruits, which are high in nutrition and water content, have fewer calories, making one feel full. Here's the list of summer fruits that would make a great addition to our diet:

1. Mangoes:

Mangoes are undoubtedly the yummiest part of the summer season. This yellow fruit is high in antioxidants and also helps boost immunity. They even lower cholesterol and improve eyesight.

2. Watermelon:

The fruit, which is rich in water and electrolytes, makes it a great source of hydration for the hot weather. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including A and C, which help boost the immune system.

3. Pineapple:

Other than its rich flavour and juicy texture, this delicious and juicy fruit provides natural sweetness and contains vitamin C. Other perks of pineapple include an enzyme called bromelain that helps break down proteins and aids in digestion as well.

4. Grapes:

These tiny fruits are the best treats during the summertime. 81% of the water content in them helps keep the body hydrated throughout the day. Apart from antioxidants, electrolytes, and vitamins A and C, grapes contain resveratrol, which helps in faster healing.

5. Oranges:

This citrus fruit is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals. Oranges have multiple health benefits, including reducing cholesterol, improving heart function, being a rich source of vitamin C, and enhancing skin health.

Maintaining a diet rich in fruits is a good way to supply the body with vitamins, minerals, and fibre on a daily basis. So, make the best use of summer and indulge in these sweet, water-rich fruits. Take great advantage of this season and enjoy your favorite fruits by either having them as a healthy snack or adding them to your smoothie, yoghurt, ice cream, or juices.

ARE YOU A FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT WOMAN? LIFESTYLE HABITS YOU SHOULD MAINTAIN

Financial independence is a state in which an individual has enough income or assets to support their desired lifestyle without the need for additional income from employment or other sources. It is often achieved through careful planning, disciplined saving and investing, and living below one's means. Financial independence is a key goal for many women, and developing good financial habits is crucial to achieving it. Here are some habits that financially independent women should follow

1. Spend less than you earn

Women who are financially independent spend responsibly and within their means. They make and follow a budget, keeping tabs on their earnings and outgoings to make sure they are accomplishing their financial objectives.

2. Invest in yourself

Women who are financially independent make an effort to advance their knowledge, education, and employment opportunities. To maximise their earning potential, they place a high priority on their personal and professional development.

3. Diversify your Investments

You should diversify your investments to reduce risk and increase rewards. Women who are financially independent do this. They diversify their investments among many asset classes rather than placing all of their eggs in one basket.

4. Avoid Debt

Financially independent women steer clear of unneeded debt and pay off any existing debt as quickly as they can. They are aware that debt can be a major financial burden and restrict their future prospects.

5. Save for emergencies

Women who are financially independent have an emergency fund that can last for three to six months or more. They recognise the value of being ready for unforeseen costs and situations.

6. Give back

Women who are financially independent support the issues they care about and give back to their communities. They are aware that achieving financial freedom entails more than just building riches; it also entails having a constructive influence on the world.

Vastu Tips: If you are unable to save money or are suffering from continuous financial losses, then the defect in your vastu can be one of the reasons. According to Vastu Shastra, the northeast direction is the direction of the arrival of money and if heavy things are kept in this direction or there is a lot of dirt in this place, then you may face financial troubles. This also impacts profits and business growth.

Similarly, if there is darkness all the time in the northeast direction, differences between the family members may increase. That's why there should always be light in this direction. Similarly, the south direction is considered the direction of Yama. Keeping a door or vault in this direction is considered to be a loss of money and life.

THREE WHOLE GRAINS TO HELP YOU REDUCE HIGH CHOLESTEROL IN THE BODY

The problem of cholesterol can be very dangerous for your health. The high amount of bad cholesterol can cause several heart diseases and even the lowering of good cholesterol can lead to severe heart problems. One of the major reasons for cholesterol in our body is our daily eating patterns. Our diet greatly affects the cholesterol levels in our bodies. Thus, including certain types of grains in the diet can help us control cholesterol levels, and it can also help to keep our bodies healthy. Today, we will tell you which grains are considered best for curing the problem of cholesterol and why.

Oats

According to Healthline research, whole grains are very helpful in reducing the risk of heart disease. By consuming them, the risk of heart attack and heart stroke can be controlled up to 20 per cent. Oats are one such type of grain that can help in controlling heart diseases. The beta-glucan found in oats is a type of soluble fibre and helps in reducing cholesterol significantly. So, if you consume oats regularly, then LDL cholesterol can be reduced by up to 7 per cent.

Barley

Barley is also very beneficial in reducing bad cholesterol and preventing fatal dangers like heart attacks. Problems in the artery or stroke can also be prevented with the consumption of barley. Brown rice According to VerywellHe alth, consuming brown rice can also be good for cholesterol. Research has found that including brown rice regularly in your diet can help reduce LDL cholesterol. Along with making changes in your diet, it is also advised to take proper sleep, drink sufficient water and don’t take too much stress to maintain the cholesterol levels in your body. You can also practice certain yoga and exercises to keep your heart healthy.

HOW TO INCREASE WATER CONSUMPTION THIS SEASON IF YOU HATE THE TASTE OF WATER ITSELF?

As the scorching heat of summer approaches, it becomes even more crucial to stay hydrated. Adequate water consumption is crucial to maintaining a healthy body, and during summer months, it is especially necessary to avoid dehydration. With the sweltering heat, our body loses more water through sweating, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. By drinking plenty of water, we can replenish the lost fluids and keep our body functioning optimally. Not only does water help regulate body temperature and flush out toxins, but it also promotes healthy skin and hair, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Even though water is essential for life, there are a lot of people who cannot bear the taste of it. For some, the taste of water is bland or unappetizing, while for others, it may have a slightly metallic or bitter taste. These individuals may find themselves struggling to consume the recommended daily amount of water, leading to dehydration and a host of health problems. Some even go as far as to add sugar-laden drinks or artificial flavours to their water, which defeats the purpose of drinking water in the first place. It’s crucial to understand that water is not meant to be a delicious beverage, but a vital source of hydration.

Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, as it will remind you to drink water regularly and help you stay hydrated throughout the day. You can also set reminders on your phone or use hydration-tracking apps to monitor your daily water intake.

Infuse your water with natural flavours by adding fresh herbs like mint, basil or fruit slices like lemon, orange or grapefruit, which will make it more enjoyable to drink.

Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, which not only boost your hydration levels but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Sip on herbal tea or coconut water, which are hydrating alternatives to plain water and can be a refreshing change.

VASTU TIPS: WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE CONTINUOUSLY SUFFERING FROM FINANCIAL LOSSES

A RELAXING MOTHER'S DAY GETAWAY

NEW DELHI, (IANSLIFE) Nothing compares to travelling the world with the people you love! Take your mother on an adventure you both will never forget this Mother's Day.

OneLatitude's co-founders Bharat Seth and Simran give their picks for the best road trips for mothers and daughters to do together.

Ladakh & Zanskar, India

The rugged terrain of Ladakh is famous the world over and is sure to bring out the adventurous side of anyone! Club this with the untouched Zanskar valley and it's a trip of a lifetime. It's time to get behind the wheel or be driven around through Ladakh and Zanskar Valley with your mother.

Garden Route, South Africa

There is something for everyone on the Garden Route! From beautiful coastal drives, game reserves, scenic vineyards with delicious wines, whale watching, dolphin cruises, and scrumptious food to the bustling city of Cape Town. A drive on this route is sure to stay with you and your mom forever.

South Island, NZ

New Zealand is renowned worldwide for its natural beauty! The South Island is iconic with its gorgeous drives, adventurous activities like glacier walks and skydiving, lovely quaint towns, and more. Participate in an activity together and bring out each other's adventurous side.

Eastern Arunachal, India

Explore the interiors of Arunachal and get acquainted with the local culture and heritage of the region. Known for its beautiful views, authentic local culture, cuisine, art and crafts and more - a road trip through Eastern Arunachal may be a bumpy ride in parts but it's definitely a must for an adventurous mother-daughter duo!

Kyrgyzstan

On the silk route, this Central Asian country is more than what meets the eye. Still, off the mass tourism map, it offers authentic experiences, picturesque glacial lakes, and iconic mountain ranges. You get to meet the nomadic tribes, stay in yurts, participate in local horse games, enjoy authentic local cuisines, visit silk road relics, and much more.

Scotland

A drive on the iconic North Coast 500 is one for the books. Perfect for a mother-daughter getaway, Scotland has it all! Taste some delicious whiskeys, try the local food, sail into a loch, explore ancient castles, or stroll the streets of quaint towns with an ice cream in hand. There is something for everyone to enjoy. A Scottish sojourn is complete with the sound of bagpipes wherever you go!

Spiti, India

The beautiful valley of Spiti is a lesser explored valley in Himachal. Very similar in terrain to Ladakh it offers you beautiful views, scenic valleys, local culture & customs, and warm welcoming local stays. Head here on a road trip and drive through the picturesque valley of Sangla before making your way to Spiti. See the changing cultures and landscapes of Himachal.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Kangaroos, Twelve Apostles, Surf Beaches of Torquay, Koalas, lush rainforests, the grotto and so much more! The Great Ocean Drive from Melbourne to Port Fairy needs to be on everyone's bucket list and what's better than getting to experience it with your beloved mother? With comfortable stays, activities for everyone, and great food this one is perfect for a mother-daughter duo.

Rajasthan, India

A soulful trip through the state of Rajasthan takes you back in time and you experience the true hospitality of this Rajputana state. Start your drive from Jaipur and drive through the big and small cities making your way to Jaisalmer. End your drive with a few days in the city of Lakes-Udaipur. With delicious food, beautiful palaces, luxurious stays, loads of shopping opportunities and local Rajasthani culture - there is no wonder that Rajasthan is famous the world over.

Highway 1, USA

Take a scenic drive through the coast of California up to Seattle! Bonus if you rent out a convertible. Highway 1 or the Pacific Coast Highway runs all the way from Southern California and connects further up to Oregon and Washington. You can do a scenic short drive or the longer route till Portland or Seattle. With a tonne of stops along the way, from big cities to quaint beach towns this one is sure to be a mix of it all!

NEW DELHI, (IANSLIFE) Summer heat can pose serious risks to our furry companions. As responsible pet parents, it's our duty to ensure they stay healthy and safe. Pet parents must be aware of the changes in diet, grooming, and lifestyle needed for the change in season.

Getting grooming and hygiene wrong

A fresh summer haircut can beat the heat, but it is not advised to shave your dog completely as their coat protects them from overheating and sunburn. Dogs have delicate skin and should not be over-bathed either. Excessive scratching and licking could hint at summer allergies or parasites. For cats, brushing them more often can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. Make sure that any sunscreen or wipes you may be using are pet safe. Not adapting your pet's diet for summer

The heat affects your pet's digestive system so cooling foods rich in probiotics should be added to their diet. Watermelon and curds are some good summer treats, and swapping red meats for white meats like chicken would be ideal. Pre-packaged dry and wet food recommended by vets is nutritionally balanced and can be a better alternative in the heat.

Forgetting precautions on daily walks

Choose the coolest time of the day for walks as roads can remain hot into the evening and burn paws, increasing body temperature and leading to overheating. Don't over-excite your dog or cat in the summer, take breaks from playing in the shade. Make sure they are well hydrated by keeping a portable water bowl handy.

Overlooking your pet's safety

In summer we leave doors and windows open which is dangerous for curious pets. If you are planning a pool party with your pet, keep watch no matter how good they are at swimming. If you're going on a road trip never leave your pet in the car unattended, even in 'just five minutes' they can overheat.

Missing signs of heatstroke

Young/elderly pets, those with heart and lung issues, overweight, small breeds, and breeds from cooler regions or with flat faces, are prone to heatstroke. Look out for excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, lethargy, and even difficulty balancing. Take your pet to a cool shaded area, and either pour room-temperature water on their body to cool them down, use a wet towel to wipe the body, or place an icepack between their legs. If your pet gets worse, has diarrhoea or starts vomiting, take them immediately to your veterinarian.

5 PET CARE MISTAKES TO AVOID IN THE SUMMER SEASON

FRIZZY HAIR? NO PROBLEM

WASHING HANDS CAN AID INFECTION CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF DIARRHOEA: EXPERT

NEW DELHI, (IANSLIFE) An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! This came into realisation during the chaotic times of the pandemic when washing hands thoroughly was the most basic precaution asked by the government and healthcare authorities. However, hygiene has always lagged behind in most countries of the world resulting in the WHO recognising WASH (Water, sanitation and hygiene) as a human right for all and including it in the Sustainable Development Goals tailored for the world.

In India, the state of WASH is gradually improving but still has a huge scope for improvement and increased awareness drive. During the period of 2010-2013, India recorded 7.5 per cent of deaths among all age groups because of diarrhoea, malaria and some tropical diseases while more than 1.32 crore cases of acute diarrhoeal disease were listed in the country in 2019. The data is enough to highlight how important it is to integrate hygiene practices like washing hands in our lives as effective preventive measures.

Hands are used in almost every activity we perform throughout the day. Washing them rigorously is the cornerstone of maintaining good hygiene. And hygiene has never harmed anyone! Knowingly or unknowingly we get in contact with a lot of germs and these are carriers of many infections along with troublesome conditions like diarrhoea. To protect against a wide range of diseases like pneumonia, diarrhoea and more, washing hands is the most pocket-friendly method. We prepare, eat food, touch a public place, and touch and handle things that many people previously handled, treat wounds, care for a sick person and do much more with our hands. Thanks to the pandemic, the significance of washing hands was spread broadly, but did we take it seriously? According to UNICEF, people, especially men, do not use hygiene facilities consistently. There is a dire need for impactful political support and behavioural change interventions to spread awareness for sizable improvements in this direction.

Diarrhoea and washing hands

Germs like Salmonella, norovirus, and E. coli O157 are responsible for diarrhoea. These are also important sources of faeces from people or animals. They have the capacity to spread respiratory infections like hand-foot-mouth disease and adenovirus. The germs can easily get on the hands of people and spread when using the toilet or doing any other activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing education in the communities can help reduce diarrhoeal issues among people with weak immune systems by approximately 58 per cent. Around 1.8 million children under the age of five lose their lives every year due to diarrheal diseases and

pneumonia. These are the top reasons why kids end up in fatal situations around the world

What do facts say?

Research says that around 2.3 people lack hand washing facilities with soap and water at home. Such a lack of facilities is highly problematic for children. Half of the schools have a paucity of handwashing facilities with soap and water. This affects approximately 802 million school-going children. Also, there is a lack of hygiene facilities, especially soap and water to wash hands at places providing health care facilities. These places have a high chance of catching viral bacteria and other contaminations. If there is no proper hygiene maintained here, serious consequences and even fatal outcomes can happen.

Maintaining hand hygiene

One should take responsibility for understanding the key timings and duration of washing hands. Awareness regarding hand hygiene in the home and community needs to be implemented to spread the message as much as possible. Health promotional materials along with the resources to wash hands should be distributed in remote areas and educational institutions. Soap, sanitisers and other materials come under the resources. October 15 is Global Handwashing Day. There can be numerous activities and creative competitions like poster making etc in schools to highlight the importance of hand hygiene. As a responsible citizen, one can promote awareness via videos, creative campaigns, social media hashtags, podcasts and more to get the noble cause a direction.

Monitoring change by making services available and driving policies

The government and healthcare authorities can come together to develop handwashing policies, strategies and action plans. India is almost the leading country in terms of population at the moment. Hence, it is impossible to reach every nook and corner of the country to spread awareness. Thanks to digitalisation! Digitisation can reach everywhere throughout the world. Effective messages on government, as well as healthcare online platforms, can make a big difference. Making services accessible to the most vulnerable is the foundation of achieving this goal. Failing to plan is planning to fail. A country with massive diversity needs strict measures to come out of the traditional beliefs, social stigma and financial issues in order to take action for healthy citizens. Children suffer more than anyone due to the lack of hygiene. Their bodies are not ready to deal with harsh conditions and vulnerability at a very young age makes it much more complicated for them to battle. Keeping them clean and encouraging hygiene habits in them is the first step to saving them from a wide range of diseases.

AGEING GRACEFULLY

NEW DELHI, (IANSLIFE) Our bodies' needs and capabilities change as we age, and our skin is no exception. Sometimes the skin may transform more rapidly than necessary, if certain factors are at play such as pollution, unhealthy habits, hormonal and metabolic change. The skin becomes thinner, developing your first fine lines and wrinkles. It also loses its radiance and elasticity; no longer appearing as supple as it once did. While these are natural processes, there are certain skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and collagen that can actually reverse signs of ageing.

Role of hyaluronic acid and collagen

Both, hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen, have become a mainstay in cosmetics and skincare - supplements, injectables, and topical. These ingredients are critical to keeping your sk in looking healthy and youthful, but they work in different ways. For instance: hyaluronic acid helps to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, in contrast, collagen helps to rebuild and strengthen the skin's connective tissues from within. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance found in the human body. It's present in large concentrations in the skin, w here it helps keep the complexion hydrated and plump. In fact, hyaluronic acid is responsible for up to 30 per cent of the skin's natur al moisture-binding ability, but its production depletes over time as you age. Similarly, collagen is a protein that your body nat urally creates. Like hyaluronic acid, as you age your body produces less of the protein. As collagen plays a role in strengthening skin and increasing elasticity and hydration, wrinkles develop when your body starts producing less. In recent years, people have started using hyaluronic acid and collagen-enriched skincare products and supplements. But for longer-lasting effect and better results, bio- remodelling is a practical choice.

Collagen and hyaluronic acid go together like best friends. They complement and support one another for maximal, effective benefits. Hailed as the break-through treatment for anti-ageing, Profhilo, also synonymous with bio-remodelling, is the latest innovation in the field of aesthetic procedures. With one of the highest concentrations of ultrapure HA on the market, the treatment tackles anti -ageing directly from within the skin itself, stimulating collagen production and strengthening the support networks in the skin to red uce fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, hyaluronic acid plays a key role in tissue regeneration, specifically in repairing skin, and has been found very effective in healing wounds. Rather than being a volumising filler or muscle relaxant, Profhilo can be seen as more of an advanced injectable moisturiser. Besides the face, Profhilo can also be injected into neck, hands and other areas with high skin laxity.

Foods for boosting hyaluronic acid and collagen

The importance of nutrition is paramount, since we know that the skin is nourished from the inside. If you're not eating right, your skin will show it. While there are many approaches to eating healthy, certain foods are guaranteed to up your beauty game. Adding bone broth, foods such as soy products, oranges, bell peppers, tomato, cashew, almonds, kale, beans, and sweet potatoes will provide nutrients that may naturally ramp up your body's synthesis of hyaluronic acid and collagen and give you a healthier glo w.

It is also important to reduce or cut out alcohol, coffee, foods and beverages high in sodium and sugars as they all contribute to systemic dehydration, which may show up as skin that looks dull and non-plump. Do your best to limit your intake of processed foods, and increase the intake of water to keep the skin hydrated.

Using the right skin care ingredients, making a few lifestyle changes, and having patience can help your skin in aging gracefully and keeping it look its best through the years. A trustworthy dermatologist can help you create a personalised skin care plan by as sessing your skin type, evaluating your skin's condition and recommending products and aesthetic procedures likely to be effective.

Having frizzy hair may be a tremendous pain, especially in the morning. But don't panic, there are plenty of simple hairstyles you can try to manage your frizz and look great even on the busiest of mornings.

The Messy Bun: This classic hairstyle is perfect for frizzy hair as it allows you to embrace your natural texture. Simply gather your hair into a loose bun and secure it with a hair tie.

The Low Ponytail: A low ponytail is another simple hairstyle that's perfect for busy mornings. To make it more interesting, you can add a braid or twist to the front section of your hair.

The Top Knot: If you're short on time, a top knot is a great option. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it around and secure it with bobby pins.

The Half-Up, Half-Down: This hairstyle is perfect if you want to show off your curls while still keeping them under control. Simply gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a hair tie or clip. The French Braid: A French braid is a chic and elegant hairstyle that's perfect for frizzy hair. It keeps your hair off your face and is ideal for both casual and formal occasions. The Side

Braid: A side braid is a great option if you have long hair. Simply gather your hair to one side and braid it, securing it with a hair tie. The Fishtail Braid: This trendy braid is a gr eat option for frizzy hair as it looks great with a bit of texture. It may take a little practice to get right, but once you've mastered it, you'll love the results.

DELHI WORKING WOMEN'S FINANCIAL HABITS REVEALED

NEW DELHI, (IANSLIFE) Nearly half of the working women in Delhi (47 per cent) find it difficult to keep a regular track of their expenses, while more than 1/3rd (37 per cent) of working women are either not aware or have never been able to check their credit score. These are a few of the findings of the 5th edition of the #WorkingStree survey report released by IndiaLends, an online marketplace for personal loans and credit cards.

The #WorkingStree report further reveals that women in Delhi have a unique approach towards financial independence and decision-making. The survey was conducted online in February 2023 and covered 10,000 plus working women in the 21-65 age group residing in top metro, Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities, with about 10 per cent residing in Delhi-NCR.

The survey found that 2/3rd of working women in Delhi (67 per cent) actively contribute towards their household expenses, with nearly 1/3rd of these women (31 per cent), contributing over half of their income to their household. On a national level, more than 70 per cent of working women contribute to household expenses. Additionally, for working women in Delhi, "financial freedom" has been the biggest motivation to work, followed by the desire to be valuable and have self-confidence. Nationally, women echoed the same reasons, followed by the need to support family needs.

The survey also revealed that 32 per cent of working women in Delhi find making financial decisions with regard to savings and investments a bit complex. This is in line with the national trend, where many women rely on the guidance of their father, brother, or husband when making financial decisions.

IndiaLends Founder and CEO Gaurav Chopra said, "Financial empowerment of women is not just a social responsibility, but also a key driver of economic growth. Our study results indicate that women in Delhi have a long way to go in achieving financial independence. While it is encouraging to see that nearly twothirds of women in Delhi have checked their credit scores, there is still a long way to go in terms of regular expense tracking and independent investment decision-making. As a financial services company, IndiaLends is committed to providing women with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their financial goals and aspirations. We believe that a financially independent woman is a force to be reckoned with, and we will continue to work towards creating a more equal and inclusive society for all." The survey also found that, at a national level, nearly half of working women were learning about personal finance from social media, about 30 per cent from news articles, and 20 per cent from workshops and seminars, followed by professional experts. Even though working women are making an effort to take a charge of their finances at present only 1/3rd of working women feel confid ent about making all their financial decisions. The majority of IndiaLends' #WorkingStree survey respondents were in the 25-34 age group, representing 47.7 per cent of the total sample, followed by 35-44 year-olds at 30.8 per cent. The youngest age group of 21-24 years represented 13.7 per cent of the sample, while those over 45 and above made up about 7.8 per cent. In terms of professions, salaried employees represented the largest group of r espondents at 43.6 per cent, followed by selfemployed individuals at 31.3 per cent. Homemakers represented 12.3 per cent of the sample, while professional individuals such as CAs and lawyers accounted for 4.4 per cent. When it came to marital status, the majority of respondents were married at 70.6 per cent, followed by singles at 16.4 per cent.

CHECK YOUR KIDNEY'S HEALTH WITH THESE TWO SIMPLE TESTS!

Your kidneys play a crucial role in keeping you alive, just like your brain and heart. These two fist-sized organs, located in your lower back, play a very vital role in acting as filters by removing waste and extra fluids from the body. They also keep blood pressure under control. People are mostly interested in knowing their cholesterol and blood pressure numbers. However, they should also know about their kidney's status to see if their kidneys are healthy or if they have chronic kidney disease, which is also known as CKD.

CKD is a condition that means the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood the way they should. Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease. In India also, the disease is commonly observed in people with diabetes. Studies have suggested that almost one in two people with diabetes suffer from CKD, which also indicates that it is underdiagnosed in our country. Another estimate suggests that one in eight Indians experience the chronic condition.

Why is it important to know about kidney health?

If you are diagnosed with CKD, then it means that you have had a kidney problem for the past few months. You might get chronic kidney disease slowly and silently, without even knowing. You may be losing kidney functions for many years without significant symptoms. People often get to know about their condition only when their kidneys have failed and it's too late for preventive treatment. In this situation, they usually need dialysis or a kidney transplant. That's why knowing your kidney numbers is important.

Two important markers to detect kidney disease

Two important markers to detect kidney disease are estimated

a year, especially in all patients with diabetes. eGFR is more accurate than serum creatinine alone. Serum creatinine is affected by muscle mass, and related factors of age, sex, and race. eGFR is not reliable for patients with rapidly changing creatinine levels, extremes in muscle mass and body size, or altered diet patterns.

A uACR test basically lets the doctor or physician know how much albumin passes into your urine over a 24-hour period. Kidney disease may refer to a urine albumin test result of 30 or above. The test may also be repeated once or twice to confirm the results. We must get urine albumin excretion assessed yearly to diagnose and monitor kidney damage in patients with type 1 diabetes for five years or more or with type 2 diabetes. More frequent monitoring may be indicated in patients with changing clinical status or after therapeutic interventions. Apart from your kidney numbers, your doctor will use your medical history and perform other lab and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan to get a picture of your kidneys and urinary tract. In this way, a complete evaluation helps to confirm or rule out CKD. Tests like uACR and eGFR can minimise the burden on patients as well as healthcare delivery centers, besides supporting detection and sustained medical care more smoothly. Apart from that, these tests offer reliable results in a more convenient manner and can be used as a screening tool for risk stratification and early-stage screening as well. Such tests can also support doctors in selecting and adjusting treatment as per an individual patient, providing a certain degree of personalized treatment.

King Charles III's coronation has received a lot of attention, including what his guests choose to wear. The requests for visitors to dress in regal robes or ceremonial clothes were dropped in favour of a more casual, and an understated appearance.

There are probably few occasions in history that are more momentous than the coronation of a new monarch, and fashion at a royal ceremony is crucial.

Emma Thompson

British actor, Emma Thompson, appeared at the ceremony wearing a red overcoat from Emilia Wickstead with a monochromatic red rose print and her Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) medal as an accessory.

Nick Cave and Katy Pery

Nick Cave, an Australian artist, looked stylish in a three-piece black suit and Gucci horsebit loafers, while Katy Perry wore a pink skirt suit and a pearl choker by the late British designer Vivienne Westwood, who passed away in December 2022.

Olena Zelenska

Olena Zelenska, the first lady of Ukraine, looks very stunning at a royal occasion in an icy blue dress and coat ensemble.

Jill Biden and Finnegan Biden

In what could be interpreted as a sartorial nod to demonstrate support for Ukraine, First Lady Jill Biden wore a periwinkle blue Ralph Lauren skirt suit with a matching hair bow, and was accompanied by her granddaughter Finnegan Biden in a stylish light yellow cape dress by Markarian.

Princess Anne

Princess Anne made an appearance in a military outfit covered in thick gold braid to fulfil her duties as the "Gold Stick in Waiting" in charge of the monarch's safety. Anne is a colonel in a number of overseas regiments, so she is not unfamiliar with wearing a uniform.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and urine

Albumin-Creatinine Ratio (uACR). While eGFR is measured by a blood test, uACR is measured by a urine test. eGFR shows how well your kidneys clean blood and uACR shows that if there is a protein called albumin in your urine it may mean that your kidneys are damaged.

eGFR is calculated from stable serum creatinine levels at least once

The rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease in India not only takes a toll on patients but also on the entire healthcare system. CKD prevalence in the country is a rising burden on healthcare that needs to be tackled by making people aware and promoting screening to enable its identification or diagnosis at an early stage. The good news is that when CKD is found early and treated right, then the outlook for chronic kidney patients can be very bright.

Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau

On his approach to Westminster Abbey, Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, was seen along with his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau who shone in a blush-toned satin dress with organza sleeves, brightening the gloomy day.