Month: March 2026

Iran’s exiled Crown Prince, Reza Pahlavi, on Saturday (local time), asserted that the transition from the current regime in the Islamic Republic will be done in an “orderly” manner, noting that the regime in Tehran must go “in its entirety” amid escalating conflict in the region.

Speaking during the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas, Texas, Pahlavi credited US military operations against the Islamic Republic–referred to as “Midnight Hammer” and “Epic “Fury”–for significantly weakening the ruling establishment and claimed that these operations had resulted in the killing of key leadership figures, including the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and the destruction of a substantial portion of Iran’s missile capabilities and nuclear infrastructure.

Pahlavi praised US President Donald Trump and American forces for their role, stating that their actions had given “millions of Iranians a fighting chance” to end decades of what he described as repression and instability under the Islamic Republic.

“Operations Midnight Hammer and Epic Fury have done something extraordinary. The killing of Khamenei and many of his henchmen, the destruction of more than 80 per cent of the regime’s ballistic missile arsenal, and the obliteration of the nuclear sites have levelled the playing field. This did not happen by accident. It happened because of President Trump’s resolve and the courage of American troops. On behalf of millions of Iranians, we thank them,” Pahlavi said.

Calling for decisive action, Pahlavi warned that leaving any part of the current regime intact would prolong instability, adding that the leadership cannot be trusted to deliver peace or reform.

“If we do not finish the job and leave a rump of the regime in place, the threat posed by this Islamic Republic will not be solved. It will only be made worse. Those who have spent 47 years sewing chaos cannot be trusted to bring about stability. Terrorists cannot be trusted to bring peace. If they are left in place, they will bring only more of the instability, chaos, and destruction they have brought for 47 years,” he said.

Outlining his vision for the future, Pahlavi said he has accepted calls from Iranians both in the country and the diaspora to lead a democratic transition and pointed to a framework developed by his team–the Iran Prosperity Project–as a roadmap for national recovery, including immediate steps in the first 100 days following a potential regime collapse.

He also urged continued US support, calling on Washington to “stay the course” and avoid providing any reprieve to the current Iranian leadership, which he described as “crumbling”.

“The transition will be orderly. My team of experts produced a detailed plan called the Iran Prosperity Project, or IPP. This is a roadmap for national recovery, including the first 100 days after the regime’s collapse and the longer-term reconstruction and stabilisation of our country. What we ask of America now is simple: stay the course. Do not throw this crumbling regime a lifeline. Pave the way for the Iranian people to finish the job,” he added.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with ongoing military exchanges and growing international concern over the risk of wider regional escalation. (ANI)

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan marked his elder son Hrehaan Roshan’s 20th birthday on Saturday.

The actor took to Instagram to share a series of unseen photos and videos from their family holidays, accompanied by a heartfelt note reflecting on adulthood and life lessons.

In the post, Hrithik shared glimpses of cherished moments with his sons, including a video of them enjoying time together in the ocean and another from a boys’ night out at a fine-dining restaurant.

A road trip clip stood out, showing Hrehaan stretching his arms out of a moving car, evoking a scene reminiscent of ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, while Hrithik drove.

The actor also included throwback pictures from Hrehaan’s childhood, capturing candid moments of laughter and bonding between father and son.

Alongside the visuals, Hrithik penned an emotional note addressing his son, whom he affectionately called “Ray.”

“My dear Ray… as you so eagerly step into adulthood, here’s a gentle reminder of why it’s so important to be an adult,” he wrote. Emphasising balance, he added that adulthood should be “strong enough, responsible enough, steady enough, wise enough” to allow the inner child to experience “endless moments of unbridled laughter” and “pure joy.”

“The adult steers the boat. But the child… is the captain,” Hrithik wrote, encouraging Hrehaan to retain his sense of wonder and joy even as he embraces responsibility.

Hrithik’s girlfriend and actor Saba Azad posted, “Awwweeeee” in the comments section.

Hrehaan’s mother and Hrithik’s former spouse, Sussanne Khan, also shared a loving tribute on social media. Calling him her “greatest blessing,” she expressed pride in the man he has become and welcomed him into his twenties with an emotional message.

Hrehaan’s grandfather, Rakesh Roshan also shared a picture from the birthday celebrations, and wrote, “Hey Ray 20 looks great on you! May the coming years bring you closer to everything you are working towards. Love you.”

On the professional front, Hrithik was last seen in ‘War 2’, directed by Ayan Mukerji and co-starring Jr NTR and Kiara Advani. (ANI)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) kicked off the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season in grand style as the defending champions defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by six wickets at the M Chinnaswamy on Saturday. Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal were at the centre of RCB’s masterclass, the fastest 200-plus chase in the tournament’s history.

Chasing a formidable target of 202, RCB reached the finish line with 26 balls to spare, fueled by vintage brilliance from Virat Kohli and a destructive knock from Devdutt Padikkal.

RCB’s chase began with a couple of boundaries in the first over off the bat of Phil Salt, but he fell early, in the very next over, for eight runs. However, Kohli looked in sublime touch from the first ball. He anchored the innings with a brilliant 69 off 38 deliveries, including five sixes. He became the first batter to score 6000 runs in the T20s. Kohli also became the first batter in IPL history to cross 4000 runs in chases.

However, it was Devdutt Padikkal who stole the show in the middle overs. Padikkal played with a strike rate of 234.62, bludgeoning 61 runs off just 26 balls, including four sixes and seven fours. His assault on the SRH spinners took the game away from the visitors entirely. Brief cameos from Rajat Patidar (31 off 12) and Tim David (16) ensured there were no late hiccups as RCB cruised to 203/4 in just 15.4 overs.

Earlier in the match, Sunrisers Hyderabad staged a strong recovery from an early collapse to post a competitive 201/9.

After losing three quick wickets in the power play, a brilliant knock from Ishan Kishan and key contributions down the order powered Hyderabad past the 200-run mark.

The defending champions were off to a fantastic start, with debutant and RCB speedster Jacob Duffy removing Hyderabad openers for a cheap score.

Sunrisers lost Abhishek Sharma during the first ball of the third over. The left-handed batter scored seven runs. On the last delivery, Duffy then removed Travis Head for just 11 runs as the visitors scored 23 runs.

Sunrisers lost their wicket when debutant Duffy dismissed all-rounder Nitish Reddy for just one run during the second ball of the fifth over. After the end of the sixth over, Hyderbad scored 49/3.

Stand-in skipper Ishan Kishan and wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen stabilised the ship for Hyderabad as they reached 70/3 in eight overs. Hyderabad reached a decent position after 10 overs, as they scored 87/3.

All-rounder Romario Shepherd broke the dangerous 97-run stand between Klaasen and Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter departed for 31 runs during the first ball of the 14th over.In the very next over, leg-spinner Suyash Sharma took the wicket of Salil Arora, who made nine runs as Sunrisers reached 142/5.

During the last ball of the 16th over, he took the much-needed wicket of Ishan Kishan, who departed after playing a fantastic knock of 80 runs off 38 deliveries, including eight fours and five sixes.

Hyderabad lost two more wickets after Shepherd dismissed Harsh Dubey for just three runs and Bhuvneshwar Kumar scalped the wicket of Harshal Patel, who departed after scoring a two-ball duck. Hyderabad reached 175/8 after the end of the 18th over.

During the 19th over, Aniket Verma hammered two sixes and a four before Romario took revenge and removed Verma.

The right-handed batter played a blistering knock of 18-ball 43, including three fours and four maximums. Towards the end, Sunrisers crossed the 200-run mark as they finished at 201/9 in 20 overs.

For the defending champions, Jacob Duffy (3/22) and Romario Shepherd (3/54) scalped three wickets apiece. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/31), Abhinandan Singh (1/38), and Suyash Sharma (1/28) bagged one wicket apiece. (ANI)

The BSES on Saturday said that the national capital as a whole saved 216 MW on account of Earth Hour.

Additionally, 174 MW was saved in the BSES area.

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). According to the website of the same, Earth Hour has been known for the “lights off” moment, with individuals from around the globe switching off their lights to show symbolic support for the planet and to raise awareness of the environmental issues affecting it.

Over these 20 years, Earth Hour has evolved from awareness to action, mobilising individuals, communities and institutions to adopt more sustainable lifestyles and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future. In many ways, it reflects the journey the world must take from intent to impact.

For BSES, Earth Hour is not a one-hour event but a reflection of its sustained commitment to sustainability and clean energy transition. As one of India’s leading power distribution utilities, BSES continues to transform Delhi’s energy landscape through initiatives such as rooftop solar, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The discoms have energised over 13,000 rooftop solar connections and enabled more than 6,300 EV charging points while steadily expanding their green power portfolio, which is expected to exceed 50per cent by FY 2026-27.

Delhi has consistently proven that collective action leads to tangible outcomes. In 2024, the city achieved a reduction of approximately 206 MW during Earth Hour, and in 2025, this figure rose to an even more impressive 269 MW. This growth reflects the increasing awareness and participation of its citizens. Building on this momentum, Delhi aims to further solidify its role as a leader in urban climate action this year, BSES stated.

Several cities across the nation observed Earth Hour today by switching off the lights to conserve energy. This event was observed from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm across the country. (ANI)

The supervisor at Nigambodh Ghat, Sanjeev, on Saturday assured full gas supply and said that the supply chain disruption has had no impact on the cremation ground.

Speaking with ANI, the supervisor said that the cost of CNG per cremation takes about Rs 2000.

“It has had no impact on Nigambodh Ghat. We have a full gas supply here. The cost of CNG for 1 cremation ranges from Rs 1500 to Rs 2000. On average, 4 to 5 cremations are done every day,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Government of India on Thursday said that fuel supply across the country remains stable and retail fuel outlets are operating normally despite the ongoing developments in West Asia, urging the public not to believe rumours or resort to panic buying.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, “All retail outlets are operating normally across the country,” even as there were reports of panic buying in some areas due to rumours.

The ministry clarified that the country has adequate fuel supplies. “There are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country,” the statement said, reiterating its advice to citizens “not to believe rumours.”

The government also said that all refineries are operating at high capacity to ensure an uninterrupted energy supply. “All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place,” the ministry said, adding that domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.

With the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed, the government has taken several steps to maintain supplies of LPG and petroleum products across the country. The statement noted that the supply of LPG has been affected due to the prevailing geopolitical situation, but domestic deliveries remain normal.

“No reported dry-out at LPG distributorships” has been reported so far, and the “delivery of Domestic LPG Cylinders is normal,” the ministry said.

To support essential sectors, the government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG to states and union territories. (ANI)

Sharjeel Imam, an accused in the “larger conspiracy” case related to the Delhi riots of 2020, attended his younger brother, Muzzammil Imam’s wedding on Saturday, for which a Delhi court granted him a 10-day interim bail.

Sharjeel had reached his ancestral village, Kako, last week after six years to attend his younger brother’s wedding and spend time with his ailing mother.

Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai of the Karkardooma Court on March 9 allowed Imam to be released on interim bail from March 20 to March 30, 2026, upon furnishing a personal bond of Rs 50,000 along with two sureties of the like amount, subject to certain conditions.

The court directed that during the interim bail period, Imam shall not contact any witness or person connected with the case, shall provide his mobile number to the investigating officer and keep it active, and shall not interact with the media or use social media. He has also been directed to meet only family members and remain at his residence or the venues of the marriage ceremonies.

The court further directed that after the expiry of the interim bail period, Imam must surrender before the jail superintendent on the evening of March 30, and a compliance report shall be submitted to the court.

Sharjeel, who describes himself as a “political prisoner and student activist”, has remained in continuous judicial custody for nearly six years and has never been released on bail, even temporarily, before today. He was pursuing a PhD at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) at the time of his arrest.

Sharjeel Imam, Umar Khalid, and 16 others were arrested in January 2020 under the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in the Delhi riots case.

The riots that erupted in northeast Delhi in February 2020 left over 50 people dead and more than 700 injured. According to the Delhi Police, the riots were the result of a “pre-planned and well-designed” conspiracy in the background of protests against the then-proposed Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC). (ANI)

To tackle the heavy rush of passengers across the Indian Railways network, the Ministry of Railways has initiated a comprehensive plan to establish dedicated passenger holding areas at 76 stations across India with all the latest amenities.

These zones are designed to decongest platforms by providing comfortable, organised spaces equipped with essential amenities such as seating, drinking water, toilets, ticketing facilities, information displays, and security checks to manage peak-hour footfall.

A model holding area at the New Delhi Railway Station has already been commissioned, significantly easing congestion. The facility enhances passenger convenience with an array of modern features, including additional ticket counters, Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), Public Address Systems (PAS), and electronic train information boards.

To ensure safety and comfort, the area is also equipped with CCTV surveillance, luggage scanners, door frame metal detectors (DFMDs), uninterrupted power supply, improved lighting, High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) fans, and fire-fighting systems. Amenities also include RO drinking water and separate toilets for men, women, and Divyangjans.

Similar provisions are currently in various stages of planning and execution at other stations, with timelines subject to iterative optimisation. Under a new access control protocol, passengers with confirmed reserved tickets will be granted direct entry to platforms. Conversely, those without a ticket or holding a waiting list ticket will be accommodated in these designated outside holding areas until their travel status is verified or space permits.

Further infrastructure upgrades include the introduction of wider Foot-Over-Bridges (FOBs). Two new standard designs, 12 meters (40 feet) and 6 metres (20 feet) wide, have been developed and will be installed across all stations to facilitate smoother movement. Safety is being bolstered through the installation of a large number of AI-enabled CCTV cameras at stations and adjoining areas for real-time crowd monitoring and management.

To ensure efficient operations, “War Rooms” are being established at major stations where officers from all departments will work in coordination.

This is supported by the rollout of the latest-generation digital communication equipment, including advanced walkie-talkies and announcement systems.

Additionally, all staff and service personnel will be issued newly designed QR-based ID cards to ensure secure access, alongside new uniforms for easy identification during crises.

In a significant administrative shift, the post of Station Director is being upgraded at all major stations. These senior officers will be vested with financial powers to take on-the-spot decisions and will lead a unified command, with all other departments reporting directly to them. The Station Directors will also be empowered to regulate the sale of tickets based on the capacity of the station and available train services.

This information was provided by the Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha on Friday. (ANI)

With just two weeks left for the Kerala Assembly elections, Palakkad is set to witness three rivals, the United Democratic Front (UDF), Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) converge in the city with Congress leader Shashi Tharoor saying on Saturday that he is ‘happy to welcome’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan despite all three of them being in different constituencences for their programs.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Kerala on Sunday, noting that multiple political leaders, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and he himself, will be present in Palakkad, albeit in different constituencies, as campaigning intensifies ahead of the Assembly elections.

Speaking to ANI, Tharoor said on Saturday, “I’m also in Palakkad, but not in the same district, not in the same constituency. In fact, the Chief Minister is also going to be in Palakkad. So we are all three converging in Palakkad tomorrow, but in different parts of Palakkad. It’s important, frankly, that everyone gets their message across.”

Extending a cordial welcome, Tharoor said, “I am happy to welcome the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister, everybody else.” He reiterated that the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is focused on delivering a message of change and future-oriented governance. “Our message is one of change, hope, and thinking about the future. One of our slogans is ‘Think tomorrow, vote UDF,'” he said.

Highlighting the campaign momentum, Tharoor expressed optimism about the UDF’s prospects in the April 9 polls. “Look at the phenomenal energy and positive messaging we are receiving wherever we go. This is the 24th candidate I’ve campaigned for, and everywhere I see encouraging signs. The wave for the UDF is gathering momentum, and we are going to be winning,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met Congress MP from Kannur, K Sudhakaran, and his family on Saturday, along with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and MP K.C. Venugopal, ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections scheduled for April 9. In a post shared on X, Rahul Gandhi praised K. Sudhakaran for his longstanding dedication to the people of Kerala, stating, “K. Sudhakaran ji has spent a lifetime fighting for the people of Kerala – through every storm, every challenge, every test. He has the strength and loyalty of a true Congress soldier.”

Kerala will go to the polls on April 9, with counting scheduled for May 4. (ANI)

The makers of Akhil Akkineni starrer Lenin have postponed the release date of their movie to avoid the clash with Ram Charan starrer Peddi. The movie was originally scheduled to release in theatres on May 1.

Murali Kishor Abburu’s directorial Lenin is now slated to hit the big screens on June 26. Apart from Akkineni, the movie also stars Sreeleela in the lead role. According to Annapoorna Studios, the official production studio of the film, calls this decision a mark of respect for the bond between Ram Charan and Akhil.

Taking to their Instagram, Annapoorna penned a long note titled “Update on Lenin Release Date.”

They wrote, “The release of Lenin, which was originally scheduled for May 1 will now be postponed. With our dearest Mega Power Star Ram Charan’s Peddi arriving on April 30th, we believe it is the right time to celebrate cinema together in a positive and healthy environment. We all know the bond Ram Charan garu shares with Akhil garu and how he has always been a constant well-wisher. This decision comes with utmost respect and regard.”

It continued, “LENIN WILL ARRIVE ON 26 JUNE 2026 WORLDWIDE. We assure you that Lenin will be a complete celebration of cinema, packed with every emotion and presented in the team’s finest form. We are committed to bringing you the best possible experience on the big screen.”

The music of the film is composed by Thaman S. The film is produced by Akkineni Nagarjuna and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi.

Meanwhile, Peddi is directed by Buchi Babu Sena and stars Ram Charan in the titular role, alongside Shiva Rajkumar, Janhvi Kapoor, Divyendu Sharma, and Jagapathi Babu.

Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under his banner Vriddhi Cinemas, in collaboration with the leading production house Mythri Movie Makers. (ANI)

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan marked his elder son Hrehaan Roshan’s 20th birthday on Saturday.

The actor took to Instagram to share a series of unseen photos and videos from their family holidays, accompanied by a heartfelt note reflecting on adulthood and life lessons.

In the post, Hrithik shared glimpses of cherished moments with his sons, including a video of them enjoying time together in the ocean and another from a boys’ night out at a fine-dining restaurant.

A road trip clip stood out, showing Hrehaan stretching his arms out of a moving car, evoking a scene reminiscent of ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, while Hrithik drove.

The actor also included throwback pictures from Hrehaan’s childhood, capturing candid moments of laughter and bonding between father and son.

Alongside the visuals, Hrithik penned an emotional note addressing his son, whom he affectionately called “Ray.”

“My dear Ray… as you so eagerly step into adulthood, here’s a gentle reminder of why it’s so important to be an adult,” he wrote. Emphasising balance, he added that adulthood should be “strong enough, responsible enough, steady enough, wise enough” to allow the inner child to experience “endless moments of unbridled laughter” and “pure joy.”

“The adult steers the boat. But the child… is the captain,” Hrithik wrote, encouraging Hrehaan to retain his sense of wonder and joy even as he embraces responsibility.

Hrithik’s girlfriend and actor Saba Azad posted, “Awwweeeee” in the comments section.

Hrehaan’s mother and Hrithik’s former spouse, Sussanne Khan, also shared a loving tribute on social media. Calling him her “greatest blessing,” she expressed pride in the man he has become and welcomed him into his twenties with an emotional message.

Hrehaan’s grandfather, Rakesh Roshan also shared a picture from the birthday celebrations, and wrote, “Hey Ray 20 looks great on you! May the coming years bring you closer to everything you are working towards. Love you.”

On the professional front, Hrithik was last seen in ‘War 2’, directed by Ayan Mukerji and co-starring Jr NTR and Kiara Advani. (ANI)