Stars begin their existence as massive clouds of gas floating in space. The question of exactly how large and dense such a gas cloud must be before it qualifies as a star has puzzled scientists for a long time. Despite sounding straightforward, this threshold has been a subject of debate among astronomers for decades. No universally agreed-upon definition has yet been established by the scientific community.
A Chandigarh consumer commission has ruled against Asics India over a pair of running shoes that developed a defect within a month of purchase. The sole of the shoes separated shortly after they were bought for Rs 6,499. The commission found the company guilty of deficiency in service and unfair trade practice. Asics India has been directed to refund the full purchase price along with 6% annual interest. The company must also pay Rs 10,000 as compensation to the consumer.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his wishes to pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra, asking them to uphold five key principles during their journey. These resolutions emphasize cleanliness, personal safety, environmental responsibility, support for local businesses, and service to the nation. The second batch of devotees has set off from Jammu amid heightened security arrangements, including technology-driven surveillance systems. The Amarnath Yatra is regarded as an important part of India's spiritual and cultural heritage. This year's pilgrimage is scheduled to continue until August 28.
Michael Burry, the investor known for predicting the 2008 financial crisis, is now taking short positions against the current AI-driven stock rally. He has placed bets against Tesla, Nvidia, and several chipmakers, arguing that the enthusiasm surrounding AI is unsustainable. At the same time, Burry has raised his stake in Chinese tech giant Alibaba, which he considers China's most capable AI company. He views Alibaba's valuation as more reasonable compared to inflated US tech stocks. Burry also believes the company's share buyback strategy will ultimately drive up its value over time.
Croatia's 103rd-minute equaliser against Portugal was disallowed following a VAR review during their recent match. Officials determined that Igor Matanovic had made a slight touch on the ball before it reached Mario Pasalic, who was in an offside position and went on to assist Josko Gvardiol's goal. Advanced ball-sensor technology known as 'Snicko' was used to confirm the marginal contact. The decision proved highly controversial, drawing strong protests from Croatian players and supporters. The ruling ultimately stood, denying Croatia a late share of the points.
Siya Goyal, accused in the murder of her fiancé Ketan Agarwal, displayed defiant behavior toward media while being escorted by police during an investigation. Authorities searched her residence and recovered crucial evidence linked to the case. Police also took her to a location where she and a co-accused allegedly rehearsed the crime. Agarwal, a realtor, was killed at Lohagad Fort, and investigators are working to establish the motive. Police have sought court approval to conduct polygraph tests on both accused to aid the investigation.
We spoke to two people who think about this for a living. Their views, laid side by side, map out exactly why this city can't make up its mind.
Iran has issued a stark warning to oil tankers operating in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening a forceful response against any vessel that does not follow its designated routes. The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions as Iran simultaneously engages in diplomatic talks with the United States. The announcement coincides with the funeral proceedings of Supreme Leader Khamenei, a period of significant political sensitivity within the country. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical oil shipping chokepoints, making Iran's threat a matter of global concern for energy markets and maritime security.
A new report has revealed major security lapses during the July 2024 assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally. According to the findings, the Secret Service failed to respond to 102 critical radio calls made during the incident. The missed communications point to significant breakdowns in coordination and situational awareness among the protective detail. The report raises serious questions about the protocols and readiness of the agency responsible for protecting high-profile political figures.
Nearly 3,000 residents have been evacuated in southern France as wildfires rapidly spread through the region. The fires are burning near the coastal towns of Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon. The outbreak follows a record-breaking heatwave that has gripped the area. Authorities moved quickly to relocate affected residents as firefighters worked to contain the blazes.
Former Olympic canoeist David Hearn has been hit with a felony charge in Washington D.C. over alleged damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Hearn is accused of tearing up sealant from the pool, causing an estimated $1,000 in damage. The reflecting pool is a prominent national landmark situated on the National Mall. The incident has drawn attention partly due to the pool's association with a Trump-backed restoration effort.
Croatia's 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end following a narrow defeat to Portugal in the group stage. Josko Gvardiol's goal in the 103rd minute, which would have levelled the match, was ruled out for offside via VAR review. The game had seen Ivan Perisic give Croatia the lead before Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty to equalise for Portugal. Goncalo Ramos then scored the decisive goal to send Portugal through to the Round of 16. The VAR decision drew visible anger from Croatian fans, who threw bottles in protest, while players also expressed their frustration.
The Indian government has called for stricter regulations for VPN service providers operating in the country. Authorities are seeking the appointment of dedicated compliance officials within these companies. The push comes amid renewed internal discussions on enforcing an existing regulatory framework more effectively. Growing concerns over the misuse of VPN services to hide user identities have driven this initiative. The move signals a tougher stance by the Centre on ensuring accountability among VPN providers.
Indian benchmark index Sensex opened approximately 500 points higher in early trade. The gains came amid mixed cues from global markets. Oil prices remained stable around $72, supported by increased tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Investors monitored international developments as domestic equities showed early resilience.
Cabo Verde's veteran goalkeeper Vozinha has made an emotional appeal for national unity ahead of his team's FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match against Argentina. The Blue Sharks are the smallest nation to ever reach the knockout stages of the tournament. They will face defending champions Argentina in what is a historic occasion for the island nation. Vozinha urged his compatriots to stand together, calling on them to be one people united behind a single flag and heart.
A woman's list of demands for a prospective husband has gone viral, triggering widespread debate online. Her requirements reportedly include virginity, a minimum salary of Rs 2 lakh, no female friends, and round-the-clock location sharing. The post drew sharp criticism from many who called the expectations unrealistic and hypocritical. Others, however, defended her right to define her own standards in a relationship. The discussion also prompted humorous responses, with some joking about the need for a custom-built AI partner.
