Month: February 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday crossed the historic milestone of 100 million followers on Instagram, becoming the first world leader and politician to achieve this feat on the platform.

PM Modi joined Instagram in 2014. He has more than twice as many followers as US President Donald Trump on Instagram. The total count of followers of the next five major world leaders is lower than PM Modi’s individual follower count.

US President Donald Trump holds the second spot with 43.2 million followers. He is followed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto with 15 million followers, Brazilian President Lula with 14.4 million followers, Turkish President Erdogan with 11.6 million followers and Argentine President Javier Milei with 6.4 million followers.

Moreover, within India as well, the gap in the number of followers is staggering.

The PM is miles ahead of other Indian political leaders on Instagram. The second spot is held by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath with around 16.1 million followers, followed by Rahul Gandhi with approximately 12.6 million followers.

At the moment, PM Modi is on a two-day official visit to Israel.

The Israeli Parliament on Wednesday conferred the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal” on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the highest honour of the Knesset.

The award was conferred in recognition of PM Modi’s “exceptional contribution through his personal leadership” to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.

The medal was conferred after PM Modi’s speech in the Israeli Parliament.

After his speech, PM Modi interacted with members of the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. The MPs took selfies and photographs with PM Modi.

PM Modi received a standing ovation during his speech, which was also marked by rapturous applause.

In his speech, PM Modi said there is great admiration for Israel’s resolve, courage, and achievements in India.

“Long before we related to each other as modern States, we were linked by ties that go back more than two thousand years. The Book of Esther refers to India as Hodu. The Talmud records trade with India in ancient times,” he said. (ANI)

Just days ahead of their wedding, actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna have shared a glimpse of their pre-wedding celebrations with fans.

The couple is set to marry in Udaipur on February 26, in the presence of close friends and family.

On Wednesday, Vijay took to his Instagram Story to post pictures from their Haldi ceremony venue. The ceremony appears to have been held outdoors in a simple setting. The space is arranged around a circular area with soft wooden panels. The floor can be seen covered with pink rose petals, and two small wooden stools are placed at the centre for the ritual.

Bright yellow and orange marigold petals can also be seen in woven baskets around the area. The backdrop features floral decorations in soft, earthy colours. One detail that had every fan talking was the names on the floral cards. A flower-shaped card read “Rushie,” while the other read “Vijay.” The cards were placed among fresh lilies and marigolds. The decor also included animated photos of their pet dogs, making the setting feel more personal.

Take a look

Rashmika also shared pictures from the ceremony on her Instagram Story, giving fans another look at the celebration.

Reports indicate that Rashmika and Vijay had an intimate engagement ceremony in Hyderabad in October last year. Their upcoming wedding in Udaipur is now eagerly awaited by fans across the country. The duo shared screen space in the 2018 romantic comedy blockbuster Geetha Govindam and the 2019 action drama Dear Comrade. (ANI)

Actor Soha Ali Khan, who is an absolute fitness enthusiast, just served some serious mid-week motivation for her fans, and this time, it’s all about pushing through the blues with a power-packed workout.

Known for her disciplined routine and inspiring fitness posts, Soha often gives fans a glimpse into her intense training sessions.

On Wednesday, she took to Instagram to share snippets from her latest workout, proving that there’s no excuse to skip a session, even in the middle of a hectic week.

The video shows Soha focused and determined as she powers through core-strengthening exercises. Along with the video, the actress added a caption that read, Mid-week workout? ABSolutely!! #coretraining #workout.

Fitness, it seems, runs in the family. Her husband, actor-director Kunal Kemmu, is equally committed to staying in shape. Last year, in a conversation with ANI, Kemmu opened up about how working out has become more than just a routine, it’s a way of life.

“Well, it’s become a part of our lifestyle. Honestly, a lot of people ask me sometimes, when I’m lifting very heavy weights, ‘What are you training for?’ And I’m like, ‘I’m not really training for anything. I’m training for myself. I do that because of that,'” Kemmu said.

Soha, daughter of former cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and veteran actor Sharmila Tagore, married Kunal on January 25, 2015. The couple recently celebrated 11 years of togetherness and are parents to daughter Inaaya Naumi Kemmu, born in September 2017. (ANI)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two more terror operatives allegedly involved in the Delhi Red Fort area bomb blast conspiracy, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 11.

The duo, identified as Zameer Ahmad Ahangar of Ganderbal (J&K) and Tufail Ahmad Bhat of Srinagar (J&K), were formally arrested by NIA for their active involvement in the conspiracy related to the Delhi blast. The duo had supplied the weapons to the prime accused in the Delhi blast case, investigations by NIA have revealed.

Eleven people were killed, and several were injured in the blast that shook the national capital on November 10, 2025. The prime accused, Umer Un Nabi, was also killed in the deadly explosion.

NIA, which has been investigating the case with the aim of unveiling the complete conspiracy behind the dastardly terror act, found Zameer Ahmad and Tufail Ahmad to be active overground workers (OGWs) of the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGH) terror outfit.

Investigations by NIA, which has been working in coordination with J&K Police, Haryana Police and other agencies, have further revealed that Zameer and Tufail were involved in the blast conspiracy, and were also a part of various other terror conspiracies.

“They were engaged in the collection of arms and ammunition, intended for use against the Indian State. NIA has further found through extensive investigation and examination of evidence,” the release stated.

“As per the findings of the national counter-terror agency, the Delhi blast conspiracy was masterminded by Umer, along with other accused – Muzammil Ganai, Shaheen Saeed, Mufti Irfan, Adeel Ahmed Rather, as well as five others who had provided shelter and logistical support to the main conspirators. These nine men were arrested earlier from various locations in J&K and Haryana,” the release added.

Earlier today, a Patiala House Court remanded two accused in the Delhi Blast case, Tufail Ahmed Bhat and Zamir Ahmed Ahangar, to National Investigation Agency (NIA) custody for 10 days.

As per the investigative agency, it is alleged that they were collecting arms and ammunition. Zamir Ahmed Ahangar was given a rifle, a pistol and live ammunition by Umar Un Nabi, Mufti Irfan Ahmed and Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather. Both the accused were associated with the terror outfit Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

The NIA had sought a 15-day custody to extract more specific details from the accused and to uncover the larger conspiracy behind the terror activities. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed condolences of the people of India for the lives lost in the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023 and said, like Israel, India has a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance against terrorism with no double standards.

Addressing the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, PM Modi said countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action, because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere.

“I carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7th. We feel your pain, we share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond,” he said, receiving a standing ovation.

“No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism. India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time. We remember the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli citizens. Like you, we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism with no double standards,” he added.

PM Modi said terrorism aims to destabilise societies, to block development and to erode trust. “Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. That’s why India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability,” he said.

The Prime Minister said last month, the world marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day. “The Holocaust stands as one of humanity’s darkest chapters. Yet, even in those turbulent years, some acts of humanity stood out. The Maharaja of Nawanagar in Gujarat, also known as the Jam Saheb, offered refuge to Polish children, including Jewish children, who had nowhere else to turn,” he said.

He noted that there is great admiration in India for Israel’s resolve, courage and achievements.

PM Modi also noted that he was born on the same day that India formally recognised Israel and said he is very happy returning to a land to which he has always felt drawn.

“It is a privilege and honour for me to stand before this dfistinguished house. I do so as the Prime Minister of India and also as a representative of one ancient civilisation addressing another. I bring with me the geetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect and partnership,” PM Modi said.

“Nine years ago, I had the good fortune to be the first PM of India to visit Israel, and I’m very happy to be here again, returning to a land to which I always felt drawn. After all, I was on the same day that India formally recognised Israel, September 17, 1950,” he added.

Earlier, PM Modi signed the Knesset’s official guest book in the Chagall Hall. PM Modi arrived in Israel earlier in the day on a two-day state visit. He is accompanied by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief over the passing of veteran Communist Party of India (CPI) leader Ramasamy Nallakannu, remembering him for his grassroots connect and lifelong efforts to give voice to the underprivileged, workers and farmers.

The Prime Minister said that Nallakannu was widely respected across sections of society and was known for his simplicity and commitment to public life.

Sharing an X post, PM Modi wrote, “Thiru R Nallakannu will be remembered for his grassroots connect and efforts to give voice to the underprivileged, workers and farmers. He was widely respected by people from every section of society. Equally noteworthy was his simplicity. My thoughts are with his family and admirers.”

Ramasamy Nallakannu, one of the senior-most leaders of the Communist movement in Tamil Nadu, passed away at the age of 101 on Wednesday afternoon at the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai.

According to an official statement issued by Madras Medical College and the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Nallakannu had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on February 1 due to health complications. Over 24 days of treatment, his condition fluctuated despite continuous advanced monitoring and intensive care by a multidisciplinary medical team.

However, from the early hours of Wednesday, his response to medication gradually declined, and his condition turned critical. Despite being placed on advanced life support, all his vital organs eventually failed. He was declared dead at around 1:55 pm.

The hospital administration expressed deep condolences to his family and thanked the medical teams involved in his care, along with the Government of Tamil Nadu, for its support. (ANI)

The Punjab government has enforced an “immediate and complete” ban on the outdoor operation of drones across the province for a duration of 30 days, citing significant threats to public safety, Dawn reported on Wednesday.

The provincial home department issued a formal notification under Section 144 (6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, stipulating that the restriction will remain in force “for a period of 30 days from the date of issuance or until withdrawn earlier”.

According to the order available with Dawn, certain exceptions have been made for controlled environments. The notification clarified that the prohibition does not extend to the “use of small drones for coverage of indoor activities, such as in halls or marquees”.

Additionally, the government stated that the ban does not apply to “drones used by intelligence and law enforcement agencies”.

The home department justified the move by pointing to heightened security concerns. As per the Dawn report, the administration noted that “credible reports and prevailing circumstances indicate that the increasing and unregulated use of drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) within the territorial limits of Punjab poses potential risks to public safety, the security of public and private property, and the maintenance of public order”.

Officials further warned that such unregulated aerial activity “may cause obstruction to official duties, create law and order concerns, and disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the province”.

The administration described the measure as “essential” for the “security of the people and installations/buildings against any potential threat or untoward activity, in the larger interest of public safety, security, peace, and tranquillity, and to avoid any untoward incident”.

This development, noted by Dawn, follows a recent decision by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to approve the establishment of a specialised anti-drone unit.

The unit is intended to intercept potential terrorist threats, alongside a broader initiative to install advanced digital scanners at the province’s primary entry and exit points. (ANI)

Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha on Wednesday took on people labelling movies like ‘Dhurandhar’ as propaganda and said in a simple language that a “film is a film”.

Directed by Aditya Dhar and headlined by Ranveer Singh, ‘Dhurandhar’ released in theatres on December 5 last year and went on to become the highest-grossing film of 2025. The film has since achieved cult status and rewritten box office history, surpassing ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ to emerge as the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time.

Sharing his thoughts on X, Sinha wrote, “Wow! Just happened to see the most talked about film an absolute masterpiece ‘Dhurandhar’. What ‘propaganda’ film??? A film is a film is a film. It’s a great film, gripping interesting & full of entertainment, made with sincerity.”

He also lauded the film’s technical finesse and production design, noting that the sets recreated in Bangkok, Thailand, to depict Pakistan were crafted “in a very realistic manner.”

Praising the editing and cinematography, he said the film is a “visual delight” and commended the “supremely talented cast and crew.”

Sinha reserved special appreciation for Ranveer Singh, calling him “outstanding,” while also applauding performances by Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna.

He highlighted Akshaye Khanna’s “extraordinary role” and lasting screen presence. The veteran actor also acknowledged Rakesh Bedi for a “wonderful and amazing role” and praised a cameo by Saumya Tandon.

Calling Dhar a “role model” in cinema, Sinha credited the filmmaker’s direction for the film’s impact. He also singled out the music and choreography, describing tracks such as ‘Shararat’ and ‘Ishq Jalakar – Karvaan’ as “euphoric” and “foot tapping.”

Apart from Ranveer Singh, ‘Dhurandhar’ features Arjun Rampal and R Madhavan in pivotal roles.

Meanwhile, anticipation is building for the sequel, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, slated for a pan-India theatrical release on March 19, coinciding with Eid, Gudi Padwa and Ugadi.

Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, with music by T-Series, the sequel will release in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

Its teaser, unveiled earlier this month, offers a blood-soaked action montage charting Jaskirat Singh Rangi’s transformation into the spy Hamza Ali Mazari, with glimpses of returning cast members. (ANI)

Akshay Kumar’s upcoming film ‘Bhooth Bangla’ has generated significant buzz, as it marks his reunion with filmmaker Priyadarshan after a gap of 14 years.

Amid rising anticipation among fans, the makers on Tuesday unveiled the teaser of the film’s first song, ‘Ram Ji Aake Bhala Karenge’, offering a glimpse into the quirky and comic tone of the horror-comedy entertainer.

The teaser sees Akshay Kumar in his absolute element, with the peppy, high-energy number featuring vibrant visuals, catchy beats and Akshay’s trademark comic timing.

The song has been composed by Pritam, with lyrics penned by Kumaar. It is sung by Dev Arijit, and also includes a rap segment written and performed by Mellow D. The full version of ‘Ram Ji Aake Bhala Karenge’ is scheduled to be released on Thursday.

The song teaser arrived on the heels of Akshay’s new poster from the film.

The motion poster presents Akshay in a dramatic ‘tantrik-like’ avatar, marking a distinct shift from his recent on-screen personas.

Seated shirtless on an eerie, intricately carved throne adorned with demonic faces, he sports black sunglasses and multiple strands of Rudraksha beads.

Holding a rosary, the actor appears mid-scream, his mouth wide open, creating an intense yet theatrical visual that hints at the film’s horror-comedy tone.

Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with Cape of Good Films present Bhooth Bangla starring Akshay Kumar, Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, Tabu and Rajpal Yadav.

Directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor. Releasing in theatres on April 10, 2026. (ANI)

The team of acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has officially dismissed viral reports claiming the director has been hospitalised.

The clarification comes after social media was flooded with unverified posts alleging that the National Award winner had been rushed to a Mumbai hospital following a sudden medical emergency.

The rumours gained significant traction around Bhansali’s 63rd birthday, which he celebrated this Tuesday.

The lack of immediate information led to widespread concern among fans and film industry colleagues, sparking a surge in online searches for verified medical reports.

However, no official hospital statements or medical records were ever produced to support these claims.

To put an end to the speculation, Bhansali’s representatives released a formal “Family Statement” via official social media handles.

The statement clarified that while the filmmaker did visit a medical facility, it was for a planned procedure rather than an emergency.

“Mr. Sanjay Leela Bhansali is doing absolutely fine. He has gone in for a routine medical check-up and there is no cause for concern. We sincerely appreciate the love, care, and concern shown by everyone,” the statement read.

The director, who made his debut with ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’ (1996), is one of India’s most celebrated cinematic voices.

Known for hits like ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ and ‘Devdas’, he has earned National Film Awards for ‘Black’, ‘Bajirao Mastani,’ and ‘Padmaavat’. Most recently, he helmed the period drama series ‘Heeramandi.’

He has recently teamed up with director Ketan Mehta for the historical drama ‘Jai Somnath’. Set against the backdrop of 1025-1026 CE, the film will explore the plunder of the Somnath Temple by Mahmud of Ghazni. Produced under Bhansali Productions and Maya Movies, the project is slated for a 2027 release. (ANI)