India
Awarapan 2 earns Rs 72.90 crore globally in two days, outpaces Spider-Man in India
Emraan Hashmi's Awarapan 2 has delivered a strong box office debut, collecting over Rs 55 crore domestically within its first two days of release. The film's global gross reached Rs 72.90 crore in the same period, reflecting significant audience turnout. Its performance surpassed that of Batwara 1947 at the domestic box office. Notably, the film also held its ground against Hollywood release Spider-Man: Brand New Day in India. The rapid growth from its opening day signals a notable commercial success for the Bollywood title.
PM Modi calls for identifying 'intellectual Naxals' after armed threat recedes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Independence Day address to declare that armed Naxalism has been significantly curbed in India. He urged citizens and authorities to now focus on identifying and isolating what he termed 'dimagi Naxals', or intellectual Naxals. Modi warned that this ideological form of Naxalism poses a continued threat to the nation's progress and social fabric. He stressed the importance of steering India's youth away from such influences and toward the goal of national development. The remarks came as part of his broader Independence Day speech delivered from the Red Fort.
Chess Embraces Esports Spectacle at World Cup in Paris
The Esports World Cup in Paris gave chess a high-energy makeover, surrounding top players with giant screens, live audiences, music, and esports-style production. Magnus Carlsen successfully defended his title at the tournament. India's Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin both advanced to the quarterfinals. The event highlighted how chess is evolving its presentation to attract broader audiences without altering the game's core rules. Players, fans, and organisers see the format as a potential blueprint for the sport's future growth.
Padikkal's footwork against spin fuels consistent red and white ball form
Indian cricketer Devdutt Padikkal has demonstrated a strong ability to bounce back from lean patches throughout his domestic career. After a below-par 2023-24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign, where he managed just 119 runs in five matches, he responded impressively in subsequent tournaments. Padikkal accumulated 465 runs at an average of 155 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, followed by 556 runs at 92.66 in the Ranji Trophy. His Ranji Trophy haul included three centuries, underlining his adaptability across formats. Effective footwork against spin bowling has been identified as a key factor behind his consistent performances.
Suriya's Vishwanath and Sons jumps 45% on Day 2, crosses Rs 74 cr worldwide
Suriya-starrer Vishwanath and Sons recorded a strong second-day performance at the box office, collecting over Rs 22 crore in India on Saturday. The film's Tamil and Telugu versions both contributed significantly to the domestic total. Worldwide gross collections for the movie have now crossed Rs 74 crore. Meanwhile, Vijay's Jana Nayagan continues its theatrical run, accumulating Rs 196.15 crore over 24 days as it approaches the end of its cinema run.
Fatherhood reshapes Dak Prescott's priorities beyond football and legacy
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott says becoming a father has fundamentally changed how he views life and success. Prescott now looks beyond his football career, expressing a desire to be present for every stage of his children's lives. He hopes to one day witness the families his daughters may build for themselves. The shift in perspective is partly shaped by the loss of his own mother, making family presence deeply personal. For Prescott, success is no longer defined solely by on-field achievements but by meaningful time with family.
Nolan Wells Sea Tow Audio Authenticity Remains Unresolved Amid Fake Claims
The Sea Tow audio linked to the Nolan Wells case continues to be disputed, with no official confirmation of its authenticity or fabrication. Social media commentators Sarah Fields and Tyler Cox claimed that TV host Nancy Grace removed the audio clip and declined to air it again. Friends of Wells and a person identified as Russell Latino have also questioned the credibility of an enhanced version of the recording. Despite these challenges, investigators have not confirmed that the audio was doctored or manipulated in any way. The case remains unresolved as the debate over the recording's legitimacy continues.
PM Modi Renews Push for Women's Reservation, Opposition Hits Back
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a fresh appeal to the opposition regarding women's political reservation, reigniting debate on the issue. The move has drawn a sharp response from the Congress party, which called the pitch dishonest. Congress pointed out that the Women's Reservation Bill was already passed in September 2023, questioning the intent behind Modi's renewed push. The party suggested the government was attempting to take fresh credit for legislation already enacted. The exchange has sparked a broader political debate over the implementation and sincerity of the reservation policy.
Maharashtra mandates Marathi for auto and taxi drivers from August 18
Maharashtra has introduced new rules requiring auto and taxi drivers to have a working knowledge of Marathi, effective August 18. Drivers who do not meet this requirement will be issued a show-cause notice and given one month to comply. Those who still fail to comply face a three-month licence suspension, with potential permanent revocation. More than one lakh certificates have already been prepared for drivers who have completed the basic Marathi language course. The initiative is aimed at improving communication between drivers and passengers across the state.




