Month: July 2025

The romantic drama ‘Saiyaara,’ which stars newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, had an impressive start at the box office on Day 1.

Despite having no big stars, no franchise backing, and no festival release date, the Mohit Suri directorial has managed to earn a strong ₹21.25 crore on its opening day in India.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the update on X, calling it a historic moment for a debut film. “#Saiyaara is the BIGGEST OPENER EVER for a film headlined by newcomers,” his post read.

As per Adarsh, the film has also beaten the advance bookings of biggies, including ‘Housefull 5,’ ‘Raid 2,’ ‘Sikandar,’ and ‘Sitaare Zameen Par.’ From single screens in small towns to big city multiplexes, the film maintained high occupancy levels throughout the day.

Earlier, filmmaker Sanjay Gupta took to his X account to praise the makers for choosing to stay away from the usual “overload” of promotional activity, something that has become common in Bollywood over the years. Calling the strategy “genius,” he highlighted how it helped maintain the “freshness” of the lead pair, making their presence on screen more impactful.

“Whoever took the decision at YRF to keep the lead pair of Saiyaara away from all the pre-release interviews, appearances, and podcasts is a genius,” Gupta wrote.”They kept alive the freshness exclusively for the big screen. And look at how it’s worked,” he added.

Directed by Mohit Suri, the film tells the story of Krish (Ahaan), an aspiring singer, and Vaani (Aneet), a lyricist who writes for Ahaan’s character.

“Though poles apart in their lives, beliefs, and backgrounds, Vaani and Krish are perfect for each other. Will they understand that truth despite their age and their problems? They say flawed, imperfect people make for a perfect love story… and Saiyaara is about celebrating that one love story that is so deep, so pure, and so caring that it is absolutely unconditional,” the film’s synopsis reads.

Meanwhile, the film’s box office performance is expected to grow over the weekend. (ANI)

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Chief and former CM Naveen Patnaik has severely criticised the ruling BJP government in the state after a young girl was allegedly set on fire by miscreant in Puri district.

In a post on X, Patnaik said, “Deeply anguished to know that a young girl was set on fire in Balanga area of Puri District. This attempt to kill her happened in broad daylight. I strongly condemn this horrible act. It has happened just within a week of the terrible incident of a young girl setting herself ablaze in FM College after she was denied justice–even after knocking on every door, and a month after the horrific incident in Gopalpur. Such unthinkable incidents against women are now being reported almost daily across Odisha.”

“These are not stray cases of violence. These incidents occurring with shocking regularity point to a deep systemic failure of governance. It shows that criminals have become emboldened under the present government and are not worried about being punished. It shows how Odisha is becoming highly unsafe for women due to government inaction and political patronage. Will the Odisha Government wake up from this deep slumber and take speedy action so that the criminals are arrested? And more importantly will the government respond so that such incidents are not repeated? The girls and women of #Odisha await a response,” the post added.

The Congress party has also slammed the state government saying that it does not have any sensitiveness to such incidents.

Congress leader Srikant Jena said, “Incidents are happening one after the other. The girl is a plus 2 student. I heard that she was returning from her tuition classes when 2-4 boys poured kerosene on her and set her ablaze. Doctors are making all efforts to save her and I think she will be safe. But be it the CM or Administration, they do have any sensitiveness. Incidents are happening in the state every day. We strongly condemn this. I hope that the government will bring a law so that fear is instilled among such elements. Only then will these cases stop, otherwise, they won’t stop…”

A 16-year-old girl was set on fire by miscreants under Balanda police station in Nimapada block of Puri, Odisha, official said on Saturday. The minor girl, who suffered severe burn injuries, has been shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneshwar for treatment.

Speaking with ANI, Puri District Magistrate Chanchal Rana said, “We received information about an unfortunate incident under Balanda PS in Nimapada block, where a 16-year-old girl was set ablaze. She has suffered burn injuries. We contacted AIIMS and trauma and emergency care arrangements have been made.”

Chanchal Rana assured that the administration will provide financial assistance for the treatment. He added that police will take necessary actions against perpetrators.

“Police and District Administration have taken this matter very seriously. Senior officials have been sent to the spot. All kinds of financial assistance that would be required will be borne by the District Administration and the Government. We hope and pray that she recovers soon. Police will take all necessary actions,” Chanchal Rana said.

Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida expressed shock over the incident and assured that strict punishment will be taken against the perpetrators. (ANI)

Former Chhattisgarh CM and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel accused the BJP of targeting Congress leaders to defame them, particularly the Gandhi family.

He alleged that the BJP, unable to achieve much themselves, is attempting to weaken others, including through the arrest of his son.

Baghel asserted that he will neither be scared nor suppressed by such tactics.

“It is the policy of the BJP to defame Congress leaders. Congress party has always fought for the interest of the nation. So, entire Gandhi family was targeted in order to defame them. But the entire nation and country know that this is a family which makes sacrifices for the nation…They themselves cannot do anything, so they want to weaken others. So, they arrested my son. They are trying to suppress me but I will neither get scared nor suppressed.”

Earlier on Friday, the Enforcement Directorate on Friday arrested former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel’s son Chaitanya Baghel in connection with the ongoing investigation into the alleged multi-crore liquor scam in the state.

The action comes a few hours after the agency carried out raids at Chaitanya’s residence in Chhattisgarh. The searches were part of the agency’s broader crackdown on suspected money laundering and irregularities linked to the multi-crore scam.

Following the raids, Bhupesh Baghel’s office posted on X,”ED has arrived. Today is the last day of the Assembly session. The issue of trees being cut in Tamnar for Adani was supposed to be raised today. “Saheb” has sent the ED to the Bhilai residence.”

The move comes months after the agency in March this year seized Rs 30 lakh recovered from the residence of Bhupesh Bhupesh Baghel and his son Chaitanya.

The amount was recovered during day-long search operation conducted at a total of 14 locations across Chhattisgarh in the case pertains to alleged irregularities in the liquor trade in Chhattisgarh, involving suspected illegal commissions and money laundering.

ED has gathered that Chaitanya Baghel is also “recipient of proceeds of crime generated from the liquor scam wherein total proceeds of crime is around Rs 2,161 crore siphoned off through various schemes.”

Meanwhile, Baghel also alleged that the BJP is conspiring to hand over the state’s power plants, cement plants, and mines to Adani. He announced a statewide ‘chakka jam’ protest on July 22 to oppose this move and the attempts to suppress the Congress party.

“All power plants, cement plants, mines are going to Adani. So, there will be a chakka jam across the state on 22nd July against the conspiracy to handover Chhattisgarh to Adani and suppress us,” he said. (ANI)

Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, is currently witnessing one of the most critical water crises in its history, with millions facing acute shortages, Tolo News reported.

Water levels in several central and western parts of the city have dropped significantly, disrupting daily life for residents and raising alarm among humanitarian agencies.

“Everything depends on water. Without it, life becomes extremely difficult. If these petrol stations stop giving water, people will die of hunger and thirst,” said Mohammad Agha, a Kabul resident.

Another resident, Najibullah, highlighted the desperation among women and children in the area. “Children and women wander day and night with buckets, but there’s no water. A woman came and said she hadn’t performed ablution today because there’s not even enough water for that,” he told Tolo News.

According to a report by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), nearly six million people in Kabul are now at risk due to the sharp decline in water availability.

The agency described the situation as “unprecedented” and stressed the need for large-scale investment, improved coordination, and greater public awareness around water use and management.

As the crisis deepens, many residents have appealed to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to act swiftly by expanding water supply infrastructure and digging deeper wells.

“If these petrol stations don’t give us water, no one else will. Our children go to the neighbors, but they get beaten and told they won’t be given water. We ask the Islamic Emirate to drill wells for us so we can have our own water and access it day and night,” said Mohammad Naseem, a resident, speaking to Tolo News.

Despite growing appeals, officials of the Islamic Emirate have so far failed to take concrete steps.

While repeated assurances have been made to address the crisis, residents told Tolo News that little has changed on the ground. (ANI)

Acting on specific intelligence, officers of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Bengaluru Zonal Unit intercepted an Indian male passenger with over 4 kg of cocaine worth Rs 40 crore.

The accused, who arrived from Doha, was intercepted at Bengaluru International Airport in the early hours of Friday, according to a release from Ministry of Finance.

Upon careful examination of his baggage, it was observed that the passenger was carrying two superhero comics/magazines, which were unusually heavy. The officers carefully recovered white powder concealed in the covers of the magazines, the release stated.

The powder tested positive for cocaine. The recovered cocaine weighing 4,006 grams (over 4 kg) and having an international market value of around Rs 40 crore was seized under the provisions of the NDPS Act.

The passenger was subsequently arrested under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985 and was remanded to judicial custody on Friday.

In a similar incident in March, DRI intercepted a passenger carrying foreign-origin gold bars valued at Rs 12.56 crore at the Bengaluru airport.

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers intercepted an Indian female passenger aged around 33 years who had arrived from Dubai to Bengaluru via Emirates flight on March 3, 2025. Upon examination, gold bars weighing 14.2 kg were found ingeniously concealed on the person.

The contraband, valued at Rs. 12.56 Crore, was seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.

Following the interception, DRI officers conducted a search at her residential premises located at Lavelle Road, Bengaluru where she resides with her husband. The search resulted in the seizure of gold jewelry worth Rs 2.06 Crore and Indian currency amounting to Rs 2.67 Crore. (ANI)

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) on Friday initiated legal action through a formal notice to The Wall Street Journal and Reuters over their recent reports on the AI-171 crash that occurred on June 12. The FIP has also sought an official apology.

Confirming the action, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) CS Randhawa told ANI that FIP has initiated legal action through the law and served a notice to WSJ & Reuters over their reports, seeking an apology.

In an email to Reuters and The Wall Street Journal, the FIP stated, “It has come to our attention that certain sections of the international media are repeatedly attempting to draw conclusions through selective and unverified reporting. Such actions are irresponsible, especially while the investigation remains ongoing.”

“While the accident of this dimension has drawn public attention and shock, however, it needs to be appreciated that this is not the time to create public anxiety or angst towards the safety of the Indian Aviation Industry, particularly on the basis of unfounded fact,” they added.

Referring to the ongoing investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the email states, “Desist from publishing or circulating any content that speculates on the cause of the crash or attributes fault to any individuals, especially deceased pilots, in the absence of official confirmation and final report.”

The FIP further wrote, “We are instructed to place on record that the publication of such speculative content is highly irresponsible, and has caused grave and irreparable harm to the reputation of the deceased pilots, who are unable to defend themselves. In doing so, Reuters has also inflicted unnecessary distress on the bereaved families, and diminished the morale of the pilot fraternity, which operates under immense pressure and public responsibility.”

The FIP has strongly urged the media outlets to refrain from further speculation, “In view of the above, and pending the release of conclusive findings from the official investigation, we are instructed to caution Reuters and all affiliated platforms against further dissemination or amplification of unverified, speculative, or unofficial theories relating to the crash and pilots operating the plane.”

The legal notice specifically calls upon Reuters to cease and desist from publishing or circulating any further content that speculates on the cause of the crash or attributes fault to any individuals, especially deceased pilots, in the absence of official confirmation and final report; Promptly review and amend the article dated July 17, 2025, to include an appropriate disclaimer and remove any content that could be construed as attributing blame;

FIP have also asked them to issue a clarification acknowledging that no final conclusions have been released by the authorities and that the article was based on secondary reports.

The notice further cautions, “Please note that failure to act in accordance with this notice may compel Our Client to pursue all legal remedies available under applicable law for defamation, mental anguish, and reputational harm.”

Speaking to ANI on the NTSB statement, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots, Captain CS Randhawa, said: “We are happy with the statement of NTSB board. This will put a stop to the reports in the western media. They are in their own world and think they can publish and get away. The Indian report is very clear, we have to wait for the final report to come.”

The US federal agency, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), responsible for the investigation of aviation accidents and significant transportation events in the country, on Friday (local time) issued a strong rebuke of recent media coverage made over the preliminary investigative report on the aftermath of the ill-fated Air India 171 crash that claimed 260 lives in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad last month.

In the statement, NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said, “Recent media reports on the Air India 171 crash are premature and speculative. India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau just released its preliminary report. Investigations of this magnitude take time. We fully support the AAlB’s public appeal, which was released Thursday, and will continue to support its ongoing investigation. All investigative questions should be addressed to the AAIB,” (ANI)

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MLA Aaditya Thackeray’s scathing remarks against Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have triggered a fresh political storm, now spilling onto the streets of Pune. In retaliation, the rival faction, Shinde-led Shiv Sena, has launched a poster campaign across the city, targeting Aaditya Thackeray personally and politically.

The posters, displayed at key junctions and public areas in Pune put out by Shivsena Pune City Chief Pramod (Nana) Bhangire, depict Aaditya as a cartoon character. One of the posters reads: “This battery will soon get drained… it runs on nepotism.” Another takes a jibe at the ongoing investigation into the Mithi River Development Scam, stating: “Just keep counting… see how many will land in jail.”

This comes just days after Aaditya Thackeray publicly lashed out at Eknath Shinde in the Maharashtra Assembly and in media interactions. Without directly naming Shinde, Thackeray had called him a “traitor,” “thankless,” and “shameless” person who betrayed former CM Uddhav Thackeray despite being handed the powerful Urban Development portfolio.

The remarks came amid heightened tensions during the ongoing monsoon session of the Maharashtra legislature, where opposition leader Bhaskar Jadhav had also accused Speaker Rahul Narwekar of bias and suppressing voices of the opposition during a debate session, which was raised under Rule 293 by Bhaskar Jadhav .

The public display of political rivalry via posters suggests that the battle between the Shiv Sena factions is not just confined to the assembly but is now being waged openly on the streets, ahead of the upcoming civic body elections and crucial political alignments.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government’s move to rename Islampur as Ishwarpur has come in for criticism from the opposition benches. Congress MLA Aslam Shaikh criticised the Government’s decision saying that the focus should be on improving basic facilities like water, roads and public spaces.

“Rename Islampur as Ishwarpur, do everything but besides this, also work for the welfare of the city. There is no proper drinking water facility or roads there. There are no gardens and playgrounds there. People are living in increasingly worse conditions. So, how long will you fool people like this?” he said.

Reacting to this, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve said, “This government is only interested in creating casteism and conflicts.”

Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) leader Jayant Patil also claimed that there were very few people behind the demand to rename Islampur as Ishwarpur.

“There were very few people who had been demanding this change for some years. This does not mean the locals wanted this, too,” Patil said.

Leaders from the Mahayuti government defended the decision. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis maintained that the name change was a response to a long-standing public demand. (ANI)

The Court of First Class Judicial Magistrate DKK Mihsill granted bail to Silome James, a co-accused in the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case.

Advocate Devesh Sharma from Indore, who represented James for bail, said that his client was given a regular bail and a bond of Rs 5000 was given before the Court.

“The part of our argument was that we have no link in this case,” he said.

Earlier on July 3, the Crime Branch of Guwahati Police had summoned the sister of Raja Raghuvanshi and a news anchor in connection with an alleged defamatory statement against the Kamakhya temple.

According to the Guwahati City Police, the Investigating Officer (IO) sent a 35 (3) BNSS notice to the anchor, the news channel and Shrishti Raghuwanshi to appear before the Investigation Officer at the Crime Branch police station on June 23 and 24, but they did not appear before the Investigating Officer to date.

“In this regard, a case has been registered at the Crime Branch police station vide Crime Branch Police Station Case no 04/2025 U/S 196(2)/299/302 of BNSS, 2023. The IO has sent 35 (3) BNSS notice to the accused named in the FIR including the anchor of the news channel and Shrishti Raghuwanshi of Indore on 13-06-2025 to appear before the Investigation Officer at Crime Branch PS on 23 and 24 June, but they did not appear before IO till date,” Ankur Jain, Joint Police Commissioner, Guwahati City Police said.

According to the Guwahati police, during an interview aired on the news channel, the Anchor allegedly made unverified and highly defamatory statements against the Maa Kamakhya Temple, which is among the most sacred and ancient Shakti Peethas in India.

The police claimed this false narrative was further supported by Shrishti Raghuwanshi, the interviewee, the cousin sister of the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi, who agreed with the anchor’s assertion.

“The statements are against the revered temple of Hindu deity Maa Kamakhya of Assam, thereby hurting the religious sentiments of a particular community and disturbing public peace and communal harmony in the society. Hence, the case registered,” the senior police official said. (ANI)

Actor Ravie Dubey, who will be seen in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming magnum opus ‘Ramayana,’ has shared a Behind-The-Scenes photograph with co-star Ranbir Kapoor.

The actor took to his Instagram handle and shared a shoot day of himself with Ranbir and Tiwari.

“In the company of legends,” Dubey wrote in the caption, further dedicating a Sanskrit quote to Lord Ram.

In the photograph, Ravie could be seen dressed casually in white T-shirt, denim jacket, and black trousers, while Ranbir Kapoor appears in a simple black outfit. The actor’s clean-shaven look has garnered attention from fans.

The post quickly went viral, drawing reactions from many, including Ravie’s friends who appeared excited to watch him on the big screen. Nitesh Tiwari also reacted with heart emojis.

Earlier this month, the introduction video of the film ‘Ramayana’ was unveiled, giving an insight into the “immortal story of Rama vs Ravana.”

“Ten years of Aspiration. Relentless Conviction to bring the Greatest Epic of all time to the World. An outcome through a collaboration of some of the world’s best to ensure that Ramayana is presented with the greatest amount of Reverence and Respect,” the makers said at the time.

According to the announcement, Ranbir Kapoor will lead the narrative as Lord Rama, while Ravie Dubey will portray Lakshman. Yash will be seen as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.

Made under the banner of Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with 8-time Oscar-winning DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the film is written by Shridhar Raghavan, further musically backed by Oscar-winners Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman.

“This is more than a film. It is a vision meant to transcend borders while honouring the soul of our culture,” Tiwari said during the teaser launch event.

‘Ramayana’ Part 1 is set to release on Diwali 2026, while the second instalment is set for release in Diwali 2027. (ANI)

Ahaan Panday has received much love and support from his family, having made his much-awaited Bollywood debut. Panday starrer ‘Saiyaara,’ also featuring newcomer Aneet Padda, opened in theatres on Friday.

The film’s early reviews appeared mostly positive, with fans showering the young actors with praise for their performances.

Amid the warm reception, the entire Panday clan has been rooting for Ahaan, with heartwarming posts grabbing social media attention. The actor’s cousin, Ananya Panday shared their childhood pictures and showered Ahaan with love.

“Been obsessed with my brother since day 1 and I can’t wait for the world to feel the same. #Saiyaara in cinemas tomorrow!!! Ahaan Panday, can’t believe my little beans first movie comes out. Welcome to the movies Ahaaani!! The sweetest boy,” Ananya wrote on Instagram.

Actor Chunky Panday also extended his love and support for his nephew. With a couple of family pictures of the debutant actor, Chunky wrote, “My Saiyaara, Ahaan Panday, may you shine the Brightest in our Galaxy full of Stars. Wishing you all the Love and Luck for Today and Forever .”

Chunky’s wife, Bhavana Pandey gave a sweet shoutout. Resharing her daughter, Ananya Panday’s video of a younger Ahaan, she wrote, “Obsessed with the camera since Day 1.”

Likewise, the actor’s mother, Deanne Panday and elder sister, Alanna Panday were also among the ones to show their support for Saiyaara.

Besides family, the film has also got rave reviews from industry A-listers like Mahesh Bhatt, Kunal Kohli, Madhur Bhandarkar, Salman Khan, and more.

Directed by Mohit Suri, the film tells the story of Krish (Ahaan), an aspiring singer and Vaani (Aneet) a lyricist, who writes for Ahaan’s character.

“Though poles apart in their lives, beliefs and backgrounds, Vaani and Krish are perfect with each other and for each other. Will they understand that truth despite their age, their problems? They say flawed, imperfect people make for a perfect love story…and Saiyaara is about celebrating that one love story that is so deep, so pure and so caring that it is absolutely unconditional,” the film’s synopsis reads.

‘Saiyaara’ has released across theatres worldwide. (ANI)