Month: August 2025

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan has wrapped up the shooting of his upcoming war drama, ‘Border 2’.

On Wednesday, the makers took to social media and shared videos and pictures from the last day of the shoot. The first video shows Varun celebrating the completion of his schedule by cutting a cake with co-star Medha Rana, director Anurag Singh, producer Bhushan Kumar, and the rest of the crew members.

Besides the celebrations on the sets, Varun also paid a visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar and sought blessings.

“Varun Dhawan wraps his schedule for #Border2. Marking the completion of his shoot, #VarunDhawan along with co-star #MedhaRana, producer #BhushanKumar, co-producer #ShivChanana, #BinnoyKGandhi, & director #AnuragSingh began with a heartwarming on-set celebration, followed by a special visit at the Golden Temple in Amritsar,” the makers wrote on Instagram, expressing gratitude towards their journey.

The ‘Bhediya’ star reshared the post on his Instagram story and penned down his thoughts.

“Thank u Bhushanji, Shivji @nidhiduttaofficial @binnoykgandhi and @anurag_singh_films for making me a part of your dream eternally grateful to play this character #Border2,” he wrote.

The actor has been quite active on social media lately, frequently sharing updates on the Border sequel.

In another post, Varun shared a string of pictures from the fields of Punjab, showing him soaking in the charm of the village life. Varun was dressed in a simple white kurta pyjama as he struck various poses on the farm.

Prior to Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh also completed his shooting and received a warm celebration from his co-stars and the team. In a video shared on the singer-actor’s handle, he could be seen distributing sweets among the crew and the villagers as he bid a heartwarming farewell.

Directed by Anurag Singh, ‘Border 2’ features Sunny Deol in the lead alongside a star-studded cast. The film will be released on January 23, 2026. (ANI)

After appearing before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday morning, actor Vijay Deverakonda gave clarification about the summons related to allegedly promoting online betting games.

While speaking to the media, he said, “I want you all to change the headline saying Vijay Deverakonda appeared for gaming apps clarification. An investigation into betting apps is definitely underway, and they’re also unsure why my name appeared.”

He added that as his name appeared, they were doing the verification and took details.”

‘The Family Star’ clarified that he has done “endorsements for Gaming apps, and there is no relation between gaming apps and betting apps.”

Deverakonda also shared that there is a difference between gaming and betting apps. “Gaming apps are completely legal, recognised by the government, and licensed as a business. They have GST, TDS, companies fully registered recognised by Supreme court and various state governments, that’s a gaming app. A23 is the same.”

He explained, “If you Google top gaming apps… these are registered gaming apps. They also sponsor the Indian Cricket team, the Olympics, the Indian Women’s cricket team, IPL, and various others because these are completely legal entities. So, firstly, gaming apps and illegal betting apps should be separated.”

The ace star shared that he has provided all the necessary details, “As my name came, they asked me for a few clarifications. They asked me for account details, transaction details and about the company. We have shown that.”

“There is the Supreme Court and state governments to decide what is right or wrong. If they are okay, there should be no discussion,” he said.

This comes after actor Prakash Raj appeared before the ED to give his statement in an alleged betting app case.

Addressing media personnel after coming out of the ED office, the actor said, “This was a case of money laundering of betting apps, and it was something I did in 2016. On moral grounds, I did not pursue it, and I gave them information that I did not receive any money because I did not want to make money from that. They have taken all the details and have finished the enquiry… Officers are doing their job, and as a citizen, I am supposed to cooperate and answer their questions. There is no witch-hunting or political motivation in this…”

Earlier this year, the Telangana police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against 25 celebrities and influencers, including popular figures like Rana Daggubati and Manchu Lakshmi, for allegedly promoting illegal betting and gambling apps through their social media platforms. Prakash Raj and Vijay’s names also popped up.

The FIR was filed at the Miyapur Police Station in Hyderabad following a petition by 32-year-old businessman PM Phanindra Sarma. The complaint, lodged on March 19, 2025, highlights a disturbing trend of celebrities and influencers promoting illegal gambling apps that violate the Public Gambling Act of 1867.

Sarma claims that during a conversation with youth in his community on March 16, he discovered many individuals had been influenced to invest their money in these gambling apps, which were heavily advertised by social media personalities.

According to the complaint, these celebrities are allegedly accepting large sums of money to promote various betting platforms, which encourage users to gamble their hard-earned money. (ANI)

The Kinnar-Kailash Yatra in the Tribal District of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur, has been temporarily suspended following heavy rains, landslides, and damage to key bridges and trekking paths, the district administration confirmed on Wednesday.

The decision comes after one pilgrim died, another went missing, and over 1,196 pilgrims were rescued in a multi-agency operation involving the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities.

“The Kinnaur Kailash Yatra has been suspended with immediate effect due to damage at multiple points on the route, posing a serious risk to pilgrims’ safety,” said Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Sharma.

He said one pilgrim, Rajib Kundu (45) from West Bengal, was found dead near Parvati Kund, and his body has been sent to Rekong Peo for postmortem. Another pilgrim slipped into a gorge and is still missing.

“We have successfully rescued 1,196 pilgrims stranded at various points,” Sharma said.

“On August 5, a total of 413 pilgrims were rescued by ITBP, NDRF, and the Kinnaur Trekking Association from Kangrang Nala in Tangling village,” Sharma informed.

“On August 6, another 553 pilgrims were rescued from the same route,” he added.

“An additional 230 pilgrims were brought back safely via the longer and more difficult Purwani route on August 6,” he said.

“The rescue efforts began at 6:30 PM on August 5 and continued non-stop until 2:45 AM on August 6. Over 100 more pilgrims returned via the Kangrang route during the daytime today,” he added.

Due to the washing away of bridges at Tanglippi and Kangrang Nallah and the high risk of landslides, Sharma said that “most of the trekking path has become dangerously slippery or unstable, and further movement is not advisable.” He said.

“Registration for the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra has been suspended until further notice,” he added.

He also informed that the remaining pilgrims will be guided back through the Purbani route, although it is tougher, longer, and less frequently used.

“Our priority remains the safety of all pilgrims and personnel involved,” DC Sharma said. (ANI)

The father of RG Kar Medical College rape and murder victim arrived in Delhi on Wednesday expecting speedy justice for his deceased daughter. He expressed his disappointment with the CBI and Kolkata Police over the investigation and alleged that the Health Secretary was involved in the crime, and demanded his arrest.

He said, “We have come to Delhi with hope. It has been a year now, and we have been roaming around for justice. We will try to put pressure on CBI. We will try to meet the CBI Director tomorrow. If we meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, then he can persuade the CBI to do the task more efficiently. CBI and Kolkata Police have given the wrong perspective to the people. Our fight is to provide a safe environment for women in society. In the last one year CBI could not bring out any facts.”

He further alleged that such cases frequently occur in every college in the state, and earlier, this incident took place in a law college.

“The Bengal government is doing everything to stay in power by paying money and taking votes. They have no concern for the public. CM Mamata Banerjee keeps telling lies. Our IO in CBI lies about everything. At least 30 to 40 people are involved in this. The person who is involved in destroying the evidence, which we have seen with our own eyes but the CBI is turning a blind eye to, it is not doing anything. Whatever CBI should have done, it is not doing. We want justice. Whatever is happening in society, West Bengal will end with justice. The health secretary is connected to the crime and he should be arrested,” he added.

The RG Kar Medical College rape and murder incident occurred on August 9, 2024, when a 31-year-old female postgraduate trainee doctor was found dead in a seminar room on campus. The case led to widespread protests and outrage across the country, with many demanding justice for the victim.

The investigation into the incident was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after the Calcutta High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the case. The CBI has since arrested several individuals, including the main accused, Sanjay Roy, who has been convicted.

The top court was hearing a suo motu case in the rape and murder of the trainee doctor, which took place at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy represented the parents of the victims. (ANI).

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to file its response by August 9 on a fresh application of an NGO seeking disclosure of data of 65 lakh voters who were not included in the Bihar draft electoral roll after Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for an NGO, mentioned the matter before the apex court, saying no specific information has been given on who is dead and who has permanently migrated out.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan and N Kotiswar Singh asked the counsel for the Election Commission to furnish the details of deleted voters, the data which has been shared with the political parties, and give a copy to the NGO.

The Election Commission said all requisite information had been given to political parties.

The bench told Bhushan that the reason for deletion would come in the subsequent time, as it is now only a draft list.

However, Bhushan said that some political parties have been given a list of deleted voters, but they have not further clarified whether the voter is dead or has migrated.

“We will see every voter likely to be affected and get the required information. You (ECI) file a reply by Saturday and let Mr Bhushan look at it, and then we can see what is disclosed and what is not disclosed,” Justice Kant said.

Association For Democratic Reforms, the NGO, which has challenged the June 24 order of the poll panel directing the SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar, now sought direction from the ECI to publish the names of around 65 lakh deleted voters with a mention whether they are dead, permanently migrated or not considered for any other reason.

Bhushan claimed that 75 per cent of voters, who have filled the enumeration form, have not furnished any supporting documents mentioned in the list of 11 documents, and their names were included on the recommendation of the Booth Level Officer (BLO) of the Election Commission.

The apex court said it is starting the hearing on a batch of petitions challenging the June 24 order of the poll panel on August 12, and the NGO can make these averments on that day.

“The application seeks direction for the ECI to publish a full and final assembly constituency and part/booth wise list of names and details of approx 65 lakh electors whose Enumeration Forms were not submitted along with reasons for non-submission (death, permanently shifted, duplicate, untraceable etc.),” the application stated.

It further sought direction “to direct the ECI to publish an assembly constituency and part/booth wise list of electors on the Draft Electoral Rolls published on August 1, 2025, whose Enumeration Forms have been marked “not recommended by the BLOs”.”

The top court has fixed the hearing on August 12 and 13 of a batch of pleas challenging the Election Commission of India’s move to conduct SIR of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar.

The petitions challenging the ECI decision were filed by RJD MP Manoj Jha, ADR, PUCL, activist Yogendra Yadav, Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra, and former Bihar MLA Mujahid Alam.

The petitions sought direction to quash the ECI’s June 24 directive that requires large sections of voters in Bihar to submit proof of citizenship to remain on the electoral rolls.

ADR, in its petition, has submitted that the ECI order imposes fresh documentation requirements and shifts the burden of proof from the state to the citizen.

The petition also raised concerns over the exclusion of widely held documents like Aadhaar and ration cards, stating that this would disproportionately affect the poor and marginalised voters, especially in rural Bihar. (ANI)

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday paid tributes to former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik following his demise and said that the latter always raised his voice for farmers.

“Satyapal Malik always raised his voice for the farmers and in the national interest. May his soul rest in peace,” Ashok Gehlot told reporters.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik passed away in the national capital on Tuesday after a prolonged illness.

It was during his tenure that Article 370 was abrogated by the Central government, converting the former state into three Union Territories.

Inspired by the socialist ideology of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, Satyapal Malik entered politics in 1965-66. His leadership qualities were evident early on, as he served as the President of the Meerut College Students’ Union in 1966-67 and later as the President of the Students’ Union of the then Meerut University (now Chaudhary Charan Singh University) in 1968-69.

He made his legislative debut in 1974, winning the Baghpat Assembly seat on the ticket of the Bharatiya Kranti Dal and was appointed the party’s Chief Whip in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly. His growing stature within the political landscape led to his appointment as the All-India General Secretary of the newly formed Lok Dal in 1975. In 1980, he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha from Lok Dal.

In recognition of his long-standing contribution to public life, he was appointed the Governor of Bihar in 2017. A year later, on August 23, 2018, he took oath as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.

Throughout his political career, he has held various significant posts, including Member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly (1974-77), Member of Parliament in both the Rajya Sabha (1980-84, 1986-89) and Lok Sabha (1989-91), and Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism from April to November 1990. He also served as a member of the Panel of Chairmen in the Rajya Sabha and the Panel of Speakers in the Lok Sabha during his tenure. (ANI)

The Indian Army has launched a swift and coordinated Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation in the wake of a devastating cloudburst near Dharali, close to Harsil in Uttarakhand. The region is currently cut off from both north and south due to multiple road breaches and a collapsed bridge.

According to the Indian Army, over 225 Army personnel including infantry and engineering teams are on ground for search, rescue, and relief tasks. Combat engineers have reached Dharali to aid in clearing debris and restoring mobility.

As of 3 pm, 7 teams of the Indian Army are operating with Reeco Radar near Tekla while search and rescue dogs are deployed at Harsil; more are en route from Remount and Veterinary Centres.

As per the Indian Army, military helipad at Harsil is operational. Three civil helicopters launched from Sahastradhara in coordination with SDRF have successfully landed at Bhatwari and Harsil for casualty evacuation and relief material delivery.

Chinook, Mi-17, ALH helicopters are on standby at Jolly Grant, Chandigarh, and Sarsawa for troop and material airlift – awaiting tasking clearance.

As of 3 pm, there are three confirmed fatalities while over 50 persons are reportedly missing (as per the Civil Administration).

According to the statement, a total of 9 personnel are also missing, including one Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) and 8 jawans.

In a significant infrastructural damages, key road stretches near Bartwari, Linchigad, and Gangrani have been washed away, severely affecting movement.

Civil helipad at Dharali remains non-functional due to a mudslide.

The Indian Army remains committed to assisting local administration in rescue and relief efforts under challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that around 190 people have been rescued from the Dharali area, following a devastating cloudburst that triggered massive flash floods and landslides in the area.

Chief Minister Dhami reaffirmed that both the Centre and the state government are fully committed to making arrangements for the victims of the incident, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also assured to provide all possible help. He stated that the disaster has hit the entire Dharali. (ANI)

India is all set to observe its 11th National Handloom Day on Thursday, August 7. The celebrations, which are duly held every year, aim to showcase the richness and relevance of the country’s handloom heritage and also recognise the talent and craftsmanship of the Indian weavers.

Handloom sarees, which have been an integral part of India’s textile heritage, have efficiently made their way to the wardrobes of many across the country and even abroad. Many of our Bollywood celebrities have also beautifully embraced handloom, often wearing traditional weaves at public events and even in their daily lives.

This National Handloom Day, let’s take a look at some Bollywood stars and their admiration for handloom sarees.

Alia Bhatt

The ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ star has time and again showcased her love for the classic drapes. In one of her looks, Alia opted for a stunning white jamdani saree for a promotional event. From this elegant Jamdani to pretty Chanderi drapes and endorsing Indian crafts on the global stage, Alia has taken up sustainable fashion as a responsibility.

Vidya Balan

When talking about handloom sarees, how can we not mention Vidya Balan? The actress is often seen advocating for Indian handloom sarees, even sporting one for public events. Vidya is among the few Bollywood actors who have strongly promoted the traditional weaves from different corners of India.

Priyanka Chopra

The actor has successfully turned the traditional handwoven sarees into trendy ensembles, creating quite a stir. In one of her outings, Priyanka was dressed in a gorgeous “60-year-old vintage Banarasi brocade saree made using silver threads and a gold electroplating on khadi silk.”

Deepika Padukone

Ditching those glittery gowns, Deepika Padukone chose a stunning peacock blue Benarasi saree for a red carpet event. She beautifully carried the rich blue fabric with heavy jewellery and a subtle makeup. Deepika finished off the look with a high-neckline blouse with full sleeves, accentuating her ensemble.

Dia Mirza

Dia Mirza’s unwavering love for handloom sarees is known to all. In many of her public appearances, the actress went for the classic drape, even adding a modern twist to the traditional silhouette. Dia has often expressed her admiration for Indian handloom and shown support for the local weavers.

As we celebrate National Handloom Day 2025, let’s take inspiration from some of our favourite Bollywood divas. (ANI)

The sudden death of industrialist Sunjay Kapur on June 12, 2025, at Windsor’s Guards Polo Club has been medically ruled a natural death. However, the case has taken a contentious turn amid an ongoing corporate and inheritance dispute within the Sona Comstar family.

Sunjay Kapur’s mother, Rani Kapur, has formally approached UK authorities demanding a criminal investigation, citing “mysterious circumstances.”

According to sources familiar with the official postmortem report, Sunjay Kapur died of cardiac-related natural causes. The autopsy found a markedly enlarged heart with thickened left ventricular walls. Signs of mild coronary artery disease, while there was no contributive past medical history.

Medical experts concluded the cause of death as Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Ischaemic Heart Disease.

In a clinical opinion accompanying the report, doctors stated that even mild coronary narrowing could impair blood flow to the heart, especially in the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy, raising the risk of arrhythmia or sudden cardiac death. There were no signs of external trauma, poisoning, or foul play, sources said.

Recently, Rani Kapur, mother of Sunjay Kapur, has filed a formal criminal complaint with authorities in the United Kingdom, seeking a full-fledged probe into her son’s death. She claims there are “unexplained circumstances” that merit legal scrutiny.

“This is not just a family tragedy–it is a matter of unanswered questions,” a source close to the family told this publication. “The UK police have been asked to examine all angles.”

Adding a layer of international complexity, sources confirm that U.S. authorities are monitoring developments, as Sunjay Kapur was a U.S. citizen.

In her first public appearance since Sunjay’s passing, Rani Kapur gave a tearful interview to ANI, saying, I still don’t know what happened to my son. I am old now. I need closure before I go.” She described the early years of Sona Comstar, a company she co-founded with her late husband, as “built with care, sacrifice, and love,” asserting her continuing emotional and moral stake in its future, despite the company’s claims that she had no involvement post-2019.

“I am here to remind the world that our family’s legacy must not be lost. It must be passed on, as my husband always wanted it to be,” she said.

Soon after her statement, Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd, the group’s listed company, issued a sharp regulatory rebuttal through the Bombay Stock Exchange, dismissing her claims as “baseless and legally untenable.”

The company insisted that Rani Kapur holds no position and exerts no authority in any of its operational or governance matters.

However, sources close to the Kapur matriarch say otherwise. Before going public, she reportedly sent a letter to the board alleging that she was coerced into signing legal documents behind locked doors shortly after her son’s death, an episode she described as “highly suspicious.”

She further alleged that her bank accounts were frozen, leaving her financially dependent. She was denied access to company proceedings. Her request to postpone the Annual General Meeting was ignored

In response, Sona Comstar has issued a legal notice to Rani Kapur, accusing her of spreading “false, malicious, and damaging” statements. The company strongly denied allegations of coercion, mismanagement, and financial manipulation, calling them “unsubstantiated and defamatory.”

Rani Kapur, citing her age and fragile health, has announced that she will refrain from making further public comments. “My legal team will take the necessary steps. I just want justice for my son and for the company we built,” she said. (ANI)