Month: March 2026

The 19th season of the IPL is coming soon, and just as the league begins to build momentum again, Rajasthan Royals fans already have a reason to cheer.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja received a grand welcome as he returned to the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026.

A video shared by the official Rajasthan Royals account shows Jadeja performing a scene from the movie Dhurandhar.

In the clip, fans can be seen greeting him enthusiastically as he arrives. Stepping out of a car and onto the podium, the cricketer greets everyone in “Dhurandhar” style. Soon after getting on the stage, Jadeja says, “Khamma Ghani, Rajasthan,” in the same style as Akshaye Khanna’s famous line, “Assalamualaikum Lyaari,” from the Ranveer Singh starrer.

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The video quickly went viral, with fans reacting enthusiastically online.

Ravindra Jadeja was part of the Rajasthan squad that lifted the inaugural IPL trophy in 2008 under the captaincy of the late Australian spinner Shane Warne. The all-rounder represented the franchise during the 2008 and 2009 seasons before moving to other teams in the years that followed.

In 2012, Jadeja joined the Chennai Super Kings and went on to spend more than a decade with the franchise.

Meanwhile, preparations for the upcoming tournament are underway across all franchises. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the schedule for the first phase of IPL 2026, which will run from March 28 to April 12. The full schedule will be released later, as three states are set to hold Assembly elections during the same period. (ANI)

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan is mourning the passing of his close friend and expressed deep grief.

In a blog post, Big B shared the news of his friend’s passing, mourning that “one by one they all leave.”

“lost another very dear friend .. one filled with immense affection and humour .. a force to reckon with in any situation .. always finding a way out of the most difficult .. a smile on his face ever .. just cannot imagine he is gone,” he wrote.

The ‘Piku’ actor though refrained from sharing further details about his late friend.

On the work front, Amitabh Bachchan recently concluded the end of the latest season of his popular quiz show, ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 17’.

As the show wrapped up, the veteran actor spoke from the heart and thanked the audience for standing by him and the show over the years.

Sharing his gratitude, Amitabh Bachchan said, “Apne jeevan ka ek tehahi ji haan, one third of my life, se zyaada hissa aap sab ke saath bitana, mere liye bahot he saubhagya ki baat hai. Jab Jab maine iss manch se kaha hai ke hum aarahe hain ke aap sab ne khuli bahaaon se mera swagat kiya hai.”

“Jab main hasaa hoon toh aap hasse hain, jab meri aakhein num hui hain toh aapke bhi aankhon se aansu bahe hain. Aap mere saath iss safar mein bhagidaar bante rahe hain, Aarambh se lekar anth tak. Aap hain toh ye khel hai, aur ye khel hai toh hum hain. Bahot bahot dhanyavaad aapka,” he added.

The actor also has an exciting lineup of films, including the much-awaited sequels to ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ and ‘Brahmastra’. (ANI)

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova has issued a stark condemnation following a drone strike on the LNG carrier Arctic Metagaz in the Mediterranean Sea. The Spokesperson characterised the incident as a “gross violation of international law” with potentially “grave consequences.”

Detailing the specifics of the maritime strike, Zakharova stated that on March 3 at 04:25 a.m. local time, the vessel was targeted by “maritime and aerial drones in neutral waters in the central Mediterranean Sea.”

At the time of the attack, the ship was located 168 nautical miles south-east of the coast of Malta, carrying 100,000 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas and a crew of 30 Russian sailors.

The strike caused the vessel to lose propulsion and electrical power, subsequently triggering a “fire and gas explosion on board.”

Despite the critical nature of the emergency, the crew reportedly demonstrated “exceptional courage and composure,” successfully evacuating the burning ship via lifeboat. Thanks to the crew’s professional and coordinated actions, no casualties were reported.

A search-and-rescue operation was quickly mobilised by nearby ships with Russian crews, one of which located the drifting lifeboat.

By 8:30 pm that evening, all crew members were rescued by a tanker that came to their aid.

Zakharova pointed out that while the rescue was underway, “false reports appeared in Western media claiming that the vessel had ‘caught fire on its own and sank as a result of the blaze’.”

The situation was further complicated by the fact that two crew members sustained serious burns during the fire, making their urgent evacuation necessary.

However, the Spokesperson alleged that “Malta’s maritime authorities refused to assist in this evacuation.”

In the absence of European help, assistance was eventually provided by the maritime rescue service of Libya.

A high-speed boat transported the injured sailors to a coastal hospital in the port of Benghazi.

Following four days of treatment and coordination with the Russian Embassy in Libya, the two sailors were flown back to Russia on March 10 via a special flight and admitted to hospital.

Zakharova maintained that the nature of the strike leaves no room for ambiguity regarding its legality.

She asserted that the incident was a “deliberate strike against a civilian target,” which could have resulted in massive loss of life and environmental devastation.

“In other words – a terrorist attack & a war crime,” she noted.

Zakharova also expressed concern over the international response to the violence.

She highlighted that the attack took place in close proximity to the shores of an EU member state, yet “no European country has so far condemned it,” underscoring what Moscow views as a concerning silence from European nations. (ANI)

An acute LPG shortage in Shimla is threatening the city’s vibrant tourism industry, forcing hotels to cancel weddings and large events. As the disruption stems from the ongoing crisis in West Asia, industry leaders warn that if gas supplies are not restored soon, the impact could jeopardise the livelihoods of workers and the overall economy in Himachal Pradesh’s capital.

According to representatives of the hotel and tourism sector, the shortage has intensified amid the ongoing crisis in Iran and the wider Middle East, which has disrupted LPG availability across several parts of the country.

Mohinder Seth, President of the Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association, said hotels in the hill city are struggling to manage basic kitchen operations due to the halt in commercial LPG bottling.

“Some hotels have already started cancelling marriage functions and large parties because commercial gas is not available. We have requested the authorities to provide at least rationed cylinders so that hotels can serve basic food to tourists and staff,” Seth said.

He added that the association has already approached government officials seeking immediate relief and has suggested rationing of cylinders based on hotel capacity.

“Most hotels are now operating on a limited menu to reduce gas consumption. We are ready to cooperate with the government, but at least basic fuel supply should be ensured for the staff and guests,” Seth said.

Seth also expressed concern over the prolonged difficulties faced by the tourism sector in recent years.

“For nearly five years, the industry has been struggling first due to COVID-19, then natural disasters, and other disruptions. If support is not provided now, the tourism industry could collapse,” he warned.

Hotel owners said they are also exploring alternative cooking options such as electric appliances and eco-friendly fuel granules, but such transitions require time and infrastructure adjustments.

Pasanda Sharma, a dhaba owner in Shimla, said the limited supply has already forced them to cut down their menu.

“Our entire kitchen runs on gas. Without supply we cannot cook food. We have only one cylinder left, and once that finishes, we will have to shut down. We request the government to provide at least two to three cylinders a month so that we can continue working,” Sharma said.

Sharma added that many eateries have already stopped preparing certain food items, including tea and breakfast services, in order to conserve gas.

Meanwhile, workers and small dhaba operators in Shimla say the shortage is threatening their livelihoods.

Yoginder Pal, a chef working at a local dhaba, said the business may be forced to shut down if gas supply does not resume soon.

“We are facing serious problems because the gas supply has stopped. Four to five people work here, and our livelihood depends on this dhaba. If gas does not arrive, then we have to return home,” Pal said. Dhaba owners say they have only a few cylinders left, and operations may stop within days if fresh supplies do not arrive.

Industry stakeholders have urged the state government to introduce temporary rationing of LPG cylinders for hotels, restaurants and dhabas until normal supply is restored, warning that prolonged shortages could severely affect tourism and employment in the state capital. (ANI)

Ever wondered how celebrities deal with bumper-to-bumper traffic after a long day on set? Actor Kriti Sanon seems to have found a simple solution: hopping onto a bike and riding through the city.

The ‘Heropanti’ actor recently shared a short clip on her Instagram Stories, giving fans a quick peek into her post-shoot routine. In the video, Kriti can be seen sitting on the back seat of a bike, smiling and posing for the camera while cruising through the streets after wrapping up work.

While sharing the video with fans, Kriti also revealed that the bike ride has become her preferred way of skipping traffic after a hectic day of shooting. Calling it her “favourite” hack to avoid long jams on the road, Kriti captioned the clip, “My favourite way of ditching the traffic post shoot.”

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Last month, the actress was also seen attending the wedding reception of actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda in Hyderabad. Photos and videos from the celebration showed the trio sharing warm moments, laughing, hugging and enjoying the festivities. Kriti later shared glimpses from the event on social media, giving fans a look at the cheerful gathering.

Meanwhile, the actor has been keeping busy with her packed schedule. Kriti was recently seen in Tere Ishq Mein, directed by Aanand L. Rai and co-starring Dhanush.

She will next appear in ‘Cocktail 2,’ where she shares the screen with Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. The film is being directed by Homi Adajania. (ANI)

For generations, pregnant women have been told, “You’re eating for two now.” It is often repeated lovingly by family members and friends, accompanied by extra servings at the dinner table and encouragement to indulge cravings.

However, modern medical science warns that this well-intentioned advice may be one of the most persistent myths surrounding pregnancy nutrition.

Health experts warn that interpreting the advice literally can lead to excessive calorie intake, unhealthy weight gain and a higher risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a condition that affects blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

In reality, specialists say pregnancy requires better nutrition, not more food.

“The idea of ‘eating for two’ is misleading,” said Dr. Tripti Raheja, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, while speaking to ANI.

“In the first trimester, there is no significant increase in calorie requirements. Most women do not need additional calories at this stage. In the second and third trimesters, an extra 300 to 450 kilocalories per day is sufficient, roughly equal to one healthy snack, not double meals,” she added.

Nutrition experts note that calorie requirements increase only gradually as the pregnancy progresses.

According to Garima Chaudhary, dietitian and nutritionist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, energy needs typically remain unchanged during the first trimester, when the developing fetus is still very small.

“Calorie needs increase gradually, not dramatically,” Chaudhary explained, adding, “For women with a normal body mass index, there is usually no need for additional calories in the first trimester. In the second trimester, around 340 extra calories per day may be required, and in the third trimester, about 450. The key is nutrient-dense foods, not larger portions.”

These requirements can vary depending on factors such as pre-pregnancy weight, activity levels, and whether the pregnancy involves twins. However, the overarching principle remains the same: the focus should be on nutrient-dense foods rather than larger portions.

“Most Indian women already consume over 2,000 calories per day,” Dr. Tripti Raheja further said.

“So the focus should be on improving the quality of food, more protein and fibre, fewer refined carbohydrates, rather than increasing quantity,” she added.

The concern with excessive eating during pregnancy, especially early on, lies in its link to gestational diabetes.

The condition develops when pregnancy hormones interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

Dr. Raheja explained that hormones such as human placental lactogen, progesterone and cortisol naturally increase insulin resistance during pregnancy.

When excessive calorie intake, particularly from refined carbohydrates and sugary foods, occurs alongside this hormonal shift, the body’s metabolic balance can be disrupted.

“If a woman gains weight rapidly in early pregnancy, especially central fat, insulin resistance worsens further,” Dr. Raheja said.

“This puts stress on the pancreas, which must produce higher levels of insulin to keep blood sugar under control,” she added.

On the other hand, Chaudhary noted that excess fat tissue increases inflammatory signals in the body, compounding the problem. “More fat tissue leads to more insulin resistance. If the pancreas cannot compensate adequately, blood sugar levels begin to rise,” she said.

Research and clinical observation suggest that rapid weight gain before 20 weeks of pregnancy can increase the risk of gestational diabetes by as much as 20 to 50 per cent. It may also raise the likelihood of having a larger-than-average baby, a condition known as macrosomia, which can complicate delivery and increase the chances of cesarean section (C-section).

Another challenge is that gestational diabetes often develops quietly. Many women do not experience noticeable symptoms, making early detection dependent on medical screening and careful observation of diet and weight patterns.

“Gestational diabetes is frequently silent,” said Dr. Swati Kanodia, consultant pediatric endocrinologist at Rainbow Children’s Hospital.

“However, certain red flags should prompt earlier glucose testing rather than waiting until the routine screening at 24 to 28 weeks,” she added.

Doctors commonly look for warning signs such as rapid weight gain in the first trimester, particularly more than two to three kilograms, high intake of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates, frequent consumption of fruit juices or processed snacks, low protein intake, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Medical history also plays an important role. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), previous gestational diabetes, obesity, or a family history of Type 2 diabetes may require earlier monitoring.

“In India especially, baseline insulin resistance rates are already high, so early screening becomes particularly important,” Dr. Raheja said.

Although gestational diabetes often resolves after childbirth, its implications can extend far beyond pregnancy. Doctors stress that it should be viewed as a warning sign of future metabolic risk rather than a temporary condition.

“Women who experience gestational diabetes have a seven to ten times higher lifetime risk of developing Type 2 diabetes,” Dr. Kanodia said, adding, “The risk can persist for years, which is why postpartum monitoring and lifestyle changes are essential.”

Chaudhary added that nearly half of these women may develop Type 2 diabetes within five to ten years if preventive steps are not taken.

The effects may also extend to the next generation. Exposure to high blood sugar levels in the womb can influence how a child’s metabolism develops, increasing the likelihood of obesity, insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes later in life.

“This phenomenon is known as fetal metabolic programming,” explained Dr. Sushma Dikhit, senior consultant gynaecologist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in East Delhi.

“Gestational diabetes isn’t just a pregnancy condition; it has long-term metabolic consequences for both mother and child,” she added, in a conversation with ANI.

For this reason, doctors emphasise balanced nutrition rather than larger portions during pregnancy.

Experts often recommend a simple “plate model” for daily meals: half the plate filled with fibre-rich vegetables, one quarter with protein sources such as dal, paneer, eggs, fish or chicken, and the remaining quarter with complex carbohydrates like multigrain roti, brown rice, oats or millets. Small portions of healthy fats such as nuts, seeds or ghee can also support satiety and nutrient absorption.

“Combining carbohydrates with protein and healthy fats slows glucose absorption and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels,” Chaudhary said, adding that refined sugars, sugary beverages and fruit juices should be limited.

Meals spaced throughout the day, rather than large, heavy servings, can also help maintain steady energy levels during pregnancy.

Still, navigating cultural expectations around pregnancy and eating habits can be challenging.

In many Indian households, women are strongly encouraged to eat more “for the baby,” making portion control difficult.

Experts suggest addressing these pressures through education and communication.

“A helpful approach is to explain that the doctor has advised focusing on nutritious, balanced meals rather than eating double,” Dr. Raheja said, adding, “Families are usually more receptive when this message is framed as medical advice.”

Chaudhary agrees, noting that the emphasis should be placed on quality rather than quantity. “The baby needs nutrients, not excess sugar,” she said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Dikhit added that involving family members in prenatal consultations can help dispel myths and reduce guilt around eating less than expected.

“When families understand that overeating can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, a very large baby, difficult delivery or future diabetes risk, they often become supportive of healthier eating habits,” she said.

Pregnancy, doctors say, is a period of remarkable physiological change, but also an opportunity to build a foundation for lifelong health.

“Pregnancy is a state of controlled metabolic stress,” Dr. Dikhit said, adding, “The goal is not maximum weight gain but optimal metabolic health.”

In that sense, the message for expectant mothers may be simple but powerful: pregnancy is not about eating twice as much, it is about “eating twice as wisely”. (ANI)

Iconic singer, composer, and pianist Adnan Sami has joined Zee Music Company for a collaboration in the non-film music space, the label announced on Thursday.

A Padma Shri awardee, Sami has been a defining voice in Indian music for over three decades, delivering chart-topping hits such as ‘Lift Karade’, ‘Kabhi To Nazar Milao’, ‘Tera Chehra’, and ‘Bheegi Bheegi Raaton Mein’. He has also achieved global milestones, including becoming the first Asian artist to sell out London’s Wembley Arena for two consecutive nights, a feat that highlighted his international appeal.

Speaking on the collaboration, Sami said, “Music has always been about evolution and connection for me. I’m truly delighted to begin this new musical chapter with Zee Music Company. This partnership allows me the creative freedom to explore new genres while staying true to ‘melody’.”

Zee Music Company also welcomed contemporary pop artist and producer QARAN to its roster. Sujal Parekh, Chief Business Officer, Zee Music Company, said, “Welcoming the iconic musician Adnan Sami is a proud moment for us, given his extraordinary legacy and influence across generations. Our collaboration with contemporary creator QARAN further reflects our commitment to nurturing the next wave of Indian artists and taking Indian music to audiences worldwide.”

Composer QARAN, one of the key architects of modern Indian urban pop, has crafted widely celebrated tracks such as ‘Haaye Oye’ and his breakout hit ‘Tareefan’, which became one of the defining pop crossovers of the last decade.

QARAN added, “Indian pop music is entering a new era where it can travel globally while staying true to its roots…. I’m excited to push that sound forward and build bridges between Indian music and the rest of the world.”

Adnan Sami is co-managed by Exceed Entertainment and Big Bad Wolf, while QARAN is represented by Big Bad Wolf. With new music from both artists in development, Zee Music Company continues to expand its non-film music portfolio, creating a platform for creative freedom and innovation. (ANI)

Actor Yami Gautam Dhar marked the birthday of her husband, filmmaker Aditya Dhar with a heartfelt tribute on social media, sharing a personal message and candid moments from their life together.

On Thursday, Yami posted two photographs on Instagram celebrating her husband’s birthday. One image shows the couple during a scenic outdoor outing, while the other captures them during a workout session at the gym.

Accompanying the pictures was an emotional note expressing her affection and appreciation.

“If only there were enough words to describe what you mean to me… To my one & only, Aditya!!! Happy Birthday, love,” she wrote in the caption, dedicating the post to the filmmaker.

The tribute was also accompanied by the classic Hindi track ‘Ye Zamin Gaa Rahi Hai’ by legendary composer R. D. Burman and singer Amit Kumar, adding a nostalgic musical touch to the celebratory post.

The birthday message comes at a time when Dhar is drawing attention for his upcoming film ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’, which is scheduled to release on March 19, 2026.

Reports around the film have also sparked discussion about a possible appearance by Yami.

She had earlier portrayed a significant role in the 2019 blockbuster ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike,’ which was directed by Dhar and was a major success.

Yami has previously expressed admiration for her husband’s filmmaking. Following the success of the first ‘Dhurandhar’, she publicly praised Dhar’s work, calling him a “real Dhurandhar” and sharing her pride in his storytelling.

The couple married in June 2021 in an intimate ceremony and in May 2024, they welcomed their son, Vedavid. (ANI)

A Liberia-flagged tanker Shenlong Suezmax carrying Saudi crude has reached Mumbai Port, becoming the first India-bound vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran-US conflict began

The tanker had loaded crude from Ras Tanura port in Saudi Arabia on March 1 and departed on March 3. Maritime tracking data showed the vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on March 8 before it temporarily went off tracking systems.

The tanker reportedly switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponder while navigating the high-risk stretch of the strait and reappeared on tracking systems on March 9. The transponder is a mandatory maritime VHF radio system that automatically broadcasts a ship’s identity, position, speed, and course to nearby vessels and shore stations to prevent collisions and improve navigation.

The vessel docked at the Mumbai Port at 1 pm on Wednesday and was berthed at Jawahar Dweep at 6:06 pm. It is carrying 1,35,335 metric tonnes of crude oil, which will be supplied to refineries in Mahul, eastern Mumbai. The crude discharge process is expected to take around 36 hours

The tanker is owned by Shenlong Shipping Ltd and managed by Dynacom Tanker Management Ltd of Athens. The ship has 29 crew members including Indian, Pakistani and Filipino nationals, and is captained by an Indian.

Earlier, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps’ (IRGC) Naval Force said that vessels seeking to sail through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz must obtain Iran’s approval; otherwise, they could become targets of Iranian attacks.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri said that two ships that had ignored Iran’s warnings were targeted in the Strait on Wednesday.

“Were the ships assured of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz? This should be asked of the crews of the vessels Express Rome and Mayuree Naree, who today, trusting in empty promises, ignored the warnings and intended to cross the Strait, but were caught. Any vessel intending to pass must obtain permission from Iran,” the Iranian general said in a post on X.

According to Iranian state media, Iran intensified its restrictions on the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran has said that vessels not serving the interests of the United States and Israel can sail through safely through the strait. More than 20 million barrels of crude oil pass daily through the narrow channel separating the Iranian coast from Oman. That volume represents roughly a fifth of global oil consumption and nearly a quarter of all seaborne oil trade. A significant share of the world’s liquefied natural gas also moves through the same passage. When that flow falters even briefly, the consequences cascade across financial markets, supply chains and household budgets around the world.

Meanwhile, India’s Shipping Ministry on Wednesday said that at present, 28 Indian-flagged vessels are operating in the Persian Gulf region. Of these, 24 vessels are located west of the Strait of Hormuz carrying 677 Indian seafarers, while four vessels are east of the Strait with 101 Indian seafarers on-board.

The Ministry said that their safety and security are being actively monitored. A 24-hour control room has been operational in the Ministry and the Directorate General of Shipping since 28 February 2026 to monitor developments and coordinate assistance. Authorities, ship managers and recruitment agencies are coordinating closely with Indian embassies and local authorities to ensure safety and provide assistance to Indian seafarers wherever required. (ANI)

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens not to panic, saying India would overcome the LPG cylinder gas crisis as it did during COVID-Pandemic, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday expressed hope that PM Modi is right, but doubted the situation.

On PM Modi assuring citizens amid reports of nationwide LPG shortage, Congress MP briefly told reporters,” I hope he is right, but it doesn’t look like it.”

Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi also took on the government and said that the LPG problem will get bigger in the coming days and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that the citizens’ interests and energy requirements remain protected.

Gandhi said, “All fuel is going to be a problem because essentially our energy security has been compromised. Flawed foreign policy has created this problem. Now we have to prepare. We still have a bit of time left. The government and the Prime Minister should instantly start the preparations; otherwise crores of people will suffer great losses.”

“It is a much bigger issue than whether Iran will allow fuel or not. This war is fundamentally about the current world order. We’re entering an unstable time. During this time, you have to change your mindset. What I am suggesting to the government is that now they need to start thinking deeply and ensure that our people do not suffer heavy losses. This is not a political statement. I can see a big problem coming. The problem is that the Prime Minister is not able to function as the Prime Minister of the country. There is a reason for it, which is that he is trapped. Anyway, he still needs to make sure that people of India are protected, and our energy security is managed by us. The Prime Minister is unable to function as the PM because he is trapped. Anyway, he needs to make sure that people of India are protected,” the LoP added.

The INDIA bloc leaders have sought a discussion on the reported shortage of LPG amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor called for a discussion on the reports of shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in the Parliament, underlining that the Parliament is a platform to assure the public and conduct discussions on such important matters.

“Such issues should be discussed in Parliament. The government should be informed. You know how long the lines are for LPG cylinders… Some restaurants have said that they don’t have the gas to cook food, they can provide tea, but not the ‘dosa’. Is this the situation in the country now? You know that prices have been increased. This is a platform to present all this to the public. All we want is a discussion and the government to provide assurances to the public. It cannot be that they simply run the government according to their own will,” he said

The Government says that following measures taken by it domestic LPG production has increased by about 25% and the entire domestic #LPG production is being directed towards household consumers . (ANI)