New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) Amid the controversy over singing of 'Vande Mataram', NCP-SP MP Fauzia Khan on Thursday said that singing the national song goes "against my religious beliefs".

Her reactions came a day after two Congress councillors, Fauzia Sheikh Aleem and Rubina Iqbal, refused to sing the national song during proceedings in the Indore Municipal Corporation. Aleem reportedly insisted on being shown the specific statute or law that makes singing of 'Vande Mataram' mandatory inside the civic body.

Fauzia Khan told IANS: "Had I been there, I, too, would not have sung it, as it goes against my religious beliefs. I would have stood there respectfully and upheld the law."

She emphasised that no one, particularly a person belonging to a different faith, can be compelled to sing the song, "given that our Constitution guarantees religious freedom".

"The coercion currently being exercised runs contrary to this principle," Khan contended.

However, she said: "Fauzia Sheikh ought to have remained standing there to demonstrate respect for both the nation and the law. If, however, she chose to walk out, I believe that was an improper course of action."

Congress leader Udit Raj stated that singing the national song should be kept voluntary.

"'Vande Mataram' should not be imposed. It must not be forced upon anyone," he said.

Defending her stance, Congress councillor Rubina Iqbal told IANS, "I have not committed any offence for which an FIR is registered. Now, if it were up to them, they might even want to punish us severely. We are followers of Islam and follow its teachings. In Islam, if something is prohibited, we cannot do it."

However, according to Shiv Sena leader Shaina N.C., if one loves the country, he or she should not be apprehensive to sing 'Vande Mataram'.

She said, "Understand that 'Vande Mataram' is a national song. And if you love your country, you must sing 'Vande Mataram."

Meanwhile, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Santosh Sharma called the incident an insult to national sentiment. He said, "If they (the councillors) consider India as their country, then what might be the problem in singing the national song?"

--IANS

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Suri (West Bengal), April 9 (IANS) A wave of enthusiasm swept through Suri in West Bengal’s Birbhum district on Thursday as large numbers of BJP supporters gathered hours ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public meeting, eagerly awaiting his address.

The rally in Birbhum will mark the Prime Minister’s third public engagement of the day in the state, after earlier events in Haldia and Asansol. Despite the time remaining before his arrival in Suri the area was already packed with supporters, reflecting strong anticipation and excitement among the people.

Jagarnath Chatterjee, the BJP candidate from Suri, told IANS that the atmosphere in the region clearly indicates a groundswell of support for the party.

“You can see the enthusiasm among the people. The ground is already full, even though there is still time for the Prime Minister to arrive. Supporters have come from across Birbhum. This is going to be a historic rally, and we are confident of winning the majority of seats and driving out Trinamool,” he said.

Party workers and supporters echoed similar sentiments, highlighting both the turnout and their expectations from the Prime Minister’s address.

Ashmi, a BJP worker, praised the Prime Minister’s initiatives, particularly those aimed at women. “Modi ji has done a lot of good work for women. The Women's Reservation Bill will help them a lot. It is a very important step, and I sincerely thank him from the bottom of my heart,” she said.

Another party worker, Anju, expressed excitement over the Prime Minister’s visit. “We are very happy and excited that PM Modi is coming to our city. We have a lot of expectations from him,” she told IANS.

Supporters present at the venue also linked their support to development and security concerns. One attendee said that the state needs the kind of development seen under the Prime Minister’s leadership. “We want development in West Bengal, and we believe it is possible under Modi ji,” the supporter noted.

Women attendees, in particular, voiced concerns over safety and expressed hope for change. “We are very happy that Modi ji is visiting Birbhum. We want BJP to win here. Women do not feel safe, and our families hesitate to let us step out after 8 P.M. We want a safer environment,” a woman supporter said.

Another woman at the rally described the charged atmosphere at the venue. “There is so much excitement that it is difficult to express in words. People are chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram,’ and there is a strong sense of hope for victory,” she said.

Several attendees also highlighted their admiration for the Prime Minister. “We bow to him; he is the pride of the nation. We are very happy that he is coming here. Women here strongly want the BJP to win,” said another supporter.

As chants and slogans filled the air, the gathering reflected a high level of political engagement, with supporters expressing optimism about the rally and its potential impact on the electoral landscape in West Bengal.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) Pakistan's oil marketing companies are facing an acute liquidity crisis as up to Rs107 billion in unpaid price differential claims remain stuck, with industry players accusing the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority of repeatedly shifting documentation requirements instead of clearing dues, according to an article in the local media.

Industry estimates show the first claim of around Rs 27 billion, filed in mid-March, was only partially settled, while subsequent claims worth Rs 70-80 billion remain entirely unpaid. The cumulative exposure has left companies operating on razor-thin margins and struggling to sustain the cash flow, as per the article in the Karachi-based Express Tribune.

Officials say the issue is not transparency but unpredictability. Each time OMCs move to comply, Ogra introduces fresh documentation demands – from invoice-level reconciliations to repeated CEO, CFO, and auditor certifications – effectively resetting the process. A revised format was circulated as recently as Monday night, with no clarity on whether further changes will follow. "Each time the industry prepares to comply, a new requirement arrives. There is no finishing line in sight," a senior industry source said, noting that some audit firms may refuse involvement as the requirements fall outside of the standard audit scope.

The situation may worsen if the regulatory authority proceeds with a proposal to withhold 10 per cent of the payments until tax reconciliation with the Federal Board of Revenue – a move that could lock up another Rs7.4 billion for up to two months.

Price differential claims arise when the government caps fuel prices below procurement cost, and the difference needs to be reimbursed. Delays force oil marketing companies to bridge the gap through borrowing, which adds to the financial strain.

Industry officials warn the crisis could soon translate into fuel supply disruptions if the liquidity continues to erode. The sector has urged the Ministry of Energy to intervene and has called for immediate settlement of dues, a single documentation framework and withdrawal of the proposed move to withhold some of the payments, the article added.

--IANS

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Patna, April 9 (IANS) A disturbing incident from Bihar’s Sheohar district has triggered serious concerns over public healthcare facilities after a police officer injured in a road accident was allegedly provided temporary treatment using cardboard pieces and saline pipes at a government hospital.

Police Sub-Inspector Shyamlal sustained multiple injuries in a road accident near Fatehpur on the Madhuban Road on Wednesday.

According to the officer, a speeding four-wheeler lost control and rammed into his vehicle. The officer sustained multiple fractures in his leg. He was rescued by other police personnel and admitted to the Sadar Hospital for treatment.

“The accident was caused by a speeding vehicle, which lost control and crashed directly into my vehicle near Fatehpur,” Shyamlal said.

He suffered multiple fractures in his leg and was immediately taken to the Sadar Hospital for treatment.

At the hospital, instead of a plaster cast, doctors reportedly immobilized his fractured leg using cardboard pieces and saline pipes -- an arrangement that stunned onlookers and sparked widespread outrage.

The presence of several senior police officials -- including SHO Randhir Kumar Singh and other officers -- further drew attention to the hospital’s condition.

Locals questioned the state of public healthcare, asking what ordinary citizens might face if even a police officer received such treatment.

Responding to the controversy, Civil Surgeon Deepak Kumar explained that the officer’s leg had multiple fractures, making immediate plastering impossible without surgical intervention. “A temporary support was provided using available materials after bandaging. The patient has been referred for advanced treatment,” he said.

The injured officer has since been referred to Sitamarhi for further medical care.

District Magistrate Pratibha Rani said she has taken cognisance of the matter and initiated an inquiry. “Cardboard was used to support the fractured leg after bandaging. We have gathered full details and will take steps to improve the system,” she stated.

The incident has once again spotlighted the gaps in Bihar’s public healthcare infrastructure, raising urgent questions about emergency care standards and the availability of basic medical equipment.

--IANS

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Srinagar, April 9 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Thursday that the US President Donald Trump cannot be trusted and perhaps he himself doesn’t know what he intends to do.

Talking to the media here, Omar Abdullah said, “Perhaps he (Donald Trump) doesn’t himself know what he is doing. He says one thing in the morning, another in the afternoon and something else in the evening.”

CM Abdullah said he had also said in the past that Donald Trump cannot be trusted. He said Trump uses such abusive language on social media that does not suit anyone, let alone the President of America.

“Before he speaks, he must remember that he is the President of America. If we use such language on social media, we would be blocked. We would be removed from Twitter, etc. He is being tolerated because he is the American President,” the J&K CM said.

He said Trump should first explain to the World why the West Asia war was started, as Iran did not start the war. It was thrust on Iran.

“Now we are told that America has succeeded because the Strait of Hormuz has been opened. Hormuz was open before the war, also. This war has given Iran an opportunity to say that they will impose a toll tax on ships passing through Hormuz,” the CM said.

He added that if a ceasefire has now been announced, America must create conditions for the ceasefire to hold. “They must rein in Israel, which is continuing to bomb Lebanon. People are being killed,” he said.

Answering a question whether the mediation of Pakistan in bringing about a ceasefire in West Asia should be seen as a failure of India's foreign policy. Omar Abdullah said, “I will not talk about success or failure. But the fact is that Pakistan has done what we couldn’t do. It is my personal opinion that our closer relations with Israel have prevented us from playing that role. Otherwise, we had good relations with both America and Iran.”

He said what matters now is that the ceasefire has been achieved, and even if Pakistan mediated the ceasefire, it doesn’t matter.

--IANS

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Jerusalem, April 9 (IANS) The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said on Thursday that it has killed Ali Yusuf Harshi, personal secretary of Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, in Beirut. Harshi was also nephew of the Hezbollah chief who heads the Lebanese group backed by Iran.

In a statement shared on X, the IDF said that it has also hit two key crossings used by Hezbollah for moving weapons south of the Litani River and 10 weapons storage sites, launchers and command centres in southern Lebanon.

"ELIMINATED: Ali Yusuf Harshi, the personal secretary to Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem in Beirut. A close associate and personal advisor, Harshi played a key role in managing and securing Qassem’s office. The IDF also struck two key crossings used by Hezbollah to move weapons south of the Litani River, along with 10 weapons storage sites, launchers and command centers in southern Lebanon," IDF posted on X.

The development comes a day after the US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire agreement.

Earlier, IDF claimed it has killed a Hamas terrorist operating under the guise of a journalist. The IDF claimed that Muhammad Samir Muhammad Washah was actively involved in planning attacks against IDF troops and posed a threat to forces in the area.

In a post on X, IDF stated, "ELIMINATED: Muhammad Samir Muhammad Washah, a Hamas terrorist operating under the guise of an Al Jazeera journalist. Washah, a key terrorist in Hamas’ rocket & weapons production HQ, was also involved in the production and transfer of weapons through Gaza. The terrorist was actively involved in planning attacks against IDF troops & posed a concrete threat to forces in the area."

On Wednesday, IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Eyal Zamir, overseeing the wave of strikes against Hezbollah, said that Israel will continue to strike Hezbollah and use every operational opportunity, according to his statement shared by IDF on X.

He further said, "We will not compromise the security of the residents of northern Israel. We will continue to strike with determination."

The IDF said on Wednesday that it has completed the largest coordinated strike in Lebanon since the start of Operation Roaring Lion. According to the statement, IDF hit more than 100 Hezbollah headquarters, military arrays and command-and-control centers in Beirut, Beqaa and southern Lebanon.

"In 10 minutes, the IDF completed the largest coordinated strike across Lebanon since the start of Operation Roaring Lion. The strike targeted 100+ Hezbollah headquarters, military arrays, and command-and-control centers in Beirut, Beqaa and southern Lebanon, including: Intelligence command centers and central headquarters used planning terror attacks, Infrastructure of firepower and naval arrays, responsible for launching missiles, Assets of the Radwan Force, and the Aerial unit—Hezbollah's elite units," IDF posted on X.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) As veteran actress Jaya Bachchan turned a year older on Thursday, Kajol used social media to wish the actor and politician on her special day.

Kajol took to the Stories section of her official Instagram handle and uploaded a rare photo of the two ladies.

Wishing Jaya Bachchan with a lot of hugs and kisses, the 'Maa' actress penned on the photo-sharing app, "Happy birthday to this classy gal! Hugs and kisses,(red heart emoji) #JayaBachchan(sic)”.

The candid still posted by Kajol is most likely from last year’s Durga Puja celebrations hosted by the 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' actress and her family.

The photograph showed both Jaya Bachchan and Kajol dressed in stunning sarees. They were seen smiling in a candid still in which Kajol lovingly held the veteran actress's hand. The bond between the two actresses is highly palpable in the photo.

It must be noted that Kajol and Jaya Bachchan share a great rapport and are often seen greeting one another with utmost warmth whenever they appear in public together.

They are frequently seen together during Durga Puja festivities in Mumbai.

For those who do not know, Kajol and Jaya Bachchan shared the screen space in Karan Johar's blockbuster "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham".

Backed by Yash Johar, the drama enjoys an ensemble cast with Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor in significant roles, along with Rani Mukerji making a guest appearance.

One of the most celebrated actresses of her time, Jaya Bachchan gained recognition with "Guddi" and went on to deliver some memorable roles in movies "Abhimaan", "Mili", and "Sholay", to name just a few.

She took a break from acting after tying the knot with Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. However, she made a comeback with some more powerful performances in "Fiza" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham".

Jaya Bachchan last graced the screen with Karan Johar's "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani," co-starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) England pacer Lauren Bell has admitted she is still coming to terms with leading the team’s fast-bowling unit, saying she “hadn't really comprehended” stepping into a role once occupied by some of the country’s most iconic seamers.

At just 25, Bell has evolved into the leader of England’s pace attack following the exits of stalwarts such as Anya Shrubsole and Katherine Brunt, along with the more recent absence of Kate Cross. Her rise began with a breakthrough in the inaugural season of The Hundred in 2021, followed by her international debut the next year and appearances in multiple global tournaments since.

Reflecting on her progression, Bell acknowledged the unexpected nature of her ascent into a senior role within the squad. "I hadn't really comprehended the fact that maybe I was. With Crossy leaving, Katherine and Anya, slowly I just filled into that spot and I guess now I am. It does feel crazy. I don't know where the time has gone or how this has happened. It is exciting and cool and a job that I really love," she told BBC Sport.

Her leadership responsibilities have expanded further in the absence of experienced bowlers, with the current pace group featuring the likes of Issy Wong and Lauren Filer, as well as all-rounders such as Danielle Gibson, Em Arlott, and Freya Kemp.

"I played a lot with Crossy. She was like a big sister when I came to England and took me under her wing. I would still go to her with anything if I was struggling,” she said.

England’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup at home have gathered pace under head coach Charlotte Edwards, who recently oversaw an intensive training camp in South Africa. The camp featured a mix of senior players and emerging talent, split into two squads to simulate high-intensity competition.

Bell described the experience as both challenging and beneficial. "It was a really exciting camp. We had a meeting and plan at the start and Lot [Edwards] said we want it to be as competitive as it can possibly be. Playing against your team-mates and friends, you do have that extra bit of competitiveness and it is really hard because they know exactly what you are thinking,” she stated.

With limited international fixtures lined up ahead of the World Cup, including T20 series against New Zealand and India, England are focusing heavily on camps and fitness benchmarks to fine-tune their preparations.

The team enters the global event seeking to end a prolonged trophy drought dating back to their 2017 ODI World Cup triumph. Bell acknowledged the urgency within the group to reverse that trend. "We haven't won anything in a while and that is not a nice place to be as a team. Everyone is motivated to turn it around,” she expressed.

As England gear up for the tournament, which opens on June 12 against Sri Lanka, Bell believes home conditions could play a crucial role. "There are obviously three really big countries - India who are in a great place at the moment; Australia, who are really dominant; and I guess we have got the home advantage, so who knows," Bell concluded.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) Maharashtra NCP(SP) President Shashikant Shinde has written a commemorative editorial in the party’s magazine, shedding light on the hidden dynamics of the split and the alleged merger plans between the two NCP factions.

Shinde claimed that late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was forced to exit the original NCP due to threats and conspiracies orchestrated by "invisible powers."

He further said that a final decision to merge the two parties was reached in the presence of Maratha strongman Sharad Pawar and was to be announced on February 12.

In a massive revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders had agreed to hand over the entire command of the unified party to Ajit Pawar following the merger.

“Fulfilling this merger and rebuilding the party with strength would be the only true tribute to Ajit Dada," Shinde wrote.

Shinde clarified, "It was our decision to hand over all party responsibilities to Ajit Dada once the merger process was complete. However, fate had other plans. We were all mentally prepared to accept Ajit Dada’s leadership.”

Shinde appealed to the party faithful, asserting that a merger is the only true tribute to the late leader. He noted, “Ajit Pawar’s dream remains unfulfilled, and it is now the party's responsibility to complete it. Unity: Reuniting and strengthening the NCP is the ultimate goal. Leaders and workers must set aside their differences and broaden their perspective to achieve this unity.”

Following the publication of the article, senior NCP(SP) leader and former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh remarked, "I am unaware of what our State President has said. Since he wrote the article, he likely has more information than I do. I personally have no knowledge of this matter."

While Sharad Pawar has avoided commenting publicly on the matter, Shinde’s article has brought these behind-the-scenes developments to light. However, Shinde’s revelations have sparked a new controversy and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has reacted with sharp skepticism.

Party spokesperson Suraj Chavan questioned the timing of these claims. Chavan alleged that discussing a merger while the leader’s mortal remains were still at Vidya Pratishthan suggests a "lust for power" rather than genuine respect. He clarified that Sunetra Pawar is now the ultimate authority of their party and any dialogue must happen through her.

Further, the party legislator Amol Mitkari stated that no such merger discussions have occurred within their internal party meetings, attributing the rumours to the rival camp's leaders.

While the Pawar family continues to demonstrate a unique balance of political rivalry and familial bond — recently seen at family weddings — the political future remains clouded.

All eyes are now on Sunetra Pawar. Whether she will pursue the "unfulfilled dream" of a unified NCP or maintain a separate identity, remains a question that will define the next chapter of Maharashtra politics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India’s share in global electronics demand has expanded at a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2 per cent, significantly outpacing global growth of 4.4 per cent between 2015 and 2024, driven primarily by the sharp rise in mobile phone exports, according to NITI Aayog's Trade Watch Quarterly report for July-September 2025-26, launched on Friday.

Between 2016 and 2024, electronics exports increased nearly five-fold, reaching USD 42.1 billion. With global electronics trade valued at USD 4.6 trillion, the sector represents one of the largest and fastest-evolving segments of the world economy. India has demonstrated particular strength in products such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, and communication equipment, with exports increasingly directed towards major final-consumption markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the report states.

Electronics, the thematic focus of this quarter's edition, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's manufacturing and export transformation. Now the second-largest item in India's export basket, the sector is both technology-led and deeply interconnected with industries such as automotive, renewable energy, telecom, defence, and digital services, making it a powerful multiplier for industrial growth.

The report states that having established a strong foothold in assembly and system integration, India is now entering the next phase of its electronics journey, moving decisively toward component manufacturing and higher value addition. This transition is supported by targeted policy measures, including the Union Budget's Rs 40,000 crore allocation under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

The analysis underscores that sustained competitiveness will be driven by deeper integration into global electronics value chains, encompassing printed circuit board design, semiconductor assembly and testing, power electronics, and embedded systems. Complemented by continued improvements in logistics efficiency, tariff rationalisation, and industry-aligned skill development, these shifts position electronics as a key engine of India's export growth and technological advancement in the coming decade.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery said, "Electronics, as the organising core of modern manufacturing value chains, with semiconductors and components, plays a key role in determining trade balances and technological sovereignty. While India has achieved scale in final assembly, sustained competitiveness will depend on correcting structural cost disabilities, deepening domestic component ecosystems, and leveraging anchor investments in components to embed Indian firms more firmly within global production networks."

The publication also provides a comprehensive assessment of global and domestic trade trends at a time when global trade growth has moderated but remains positive, with services continuing to outperform goods and developing regions emerging as key drivers.

The analysis highlights that India's trade performance in Q2 FY26 was driven by export-led momentum sustaining the overall trade expansion amid heightened global uncertainty. Services and merchandise exports recorded robust growth of around 8.5 per cent, outpacing import growth in both merchandise and services.

At a structural level, the edition underscores the deepening of trade among developing economies, which has expanded nearly four-fold since 2005 and now accounts for a rising share of global exports, with India’s trade trajectory increasingly aligned with this Global South rebalancing through regional value chains and new trade corridors.

Further, this edition highlights the growing role of e-commerce as a key enabler of future export growth. India is now among the world’s top six e-commerce markets, with electronics accounting for nearly half of online retail.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) In a farmer-centric step to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to producers, the Centre on Friday approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products.

According to a Consumer Affairs Ministry statement, wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025–26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, which is nearly 32 LMT higher compared to the corresponding period last year.

"This substantial year-on-year increase indicates a comfortable supply position in the country. Furthermore, as on April 1, 2026, total wheat availability in the central pool with FCI is projected at around 182 LMT, thus ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements," it said.

Moreover, wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.

This reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest, the official statement further added.

The decision to permit export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT wheat products will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and further strengthen farmers’ income while ensuring national food security.

Meanwhile, to facilitate sugar exports, the government decided to allow export of an additional 5 LMT of sugar to willing sugar mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.

Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 LMT of sugar during the current Sugar Season 2025–26. This decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country.

As per data, only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026.

In addition, approximately 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills to date.

The ministry said that the additional export quantity of 5 LMT shall be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Actress Suzanne Bernert, popular for her role on the TV show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, has called out Deepika Padukone for ‘flexing’ on her recent comment of watching Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar way before anybody else did.

Taking to her social media account, Suzanne said, “Dear Deepika

This isn't a flex!

We are still waiting for you to openly praise your husband. I don't understand why you are not doing it.

#Dhurandhar2TheRevenge.”

For the uninitiated, Deepika Padukone had recently and finally reacted to the severe backlash she had been facing for not promoting Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, owing to the fact that the movie starred her husband Ranveer Singh, and has been touted as the most successful movies of the decade.

Deepika, while commenting on a post, questioning Deepika's zero stance on the movie that has taken the internet by storm, revealed that she had seen Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge way before anyone else did. She had further backfired at the social media post who questioned her intentions.

The post, on which Deepika commented, was seen running a poll asking netizens whether her silence throughout the movie campaign was “over analysing” or a “calculated snub.”

Deepika replied, “The latter my friend...P.S. I watched it way before any of you did

Now who is the joke on?”

The superstar had earlier remained silent throughout the trolling around her approach towards the movie's blockbuster success, and finally has responded to the post on Instagram that questioned her absence.

For the uninitiated, Deepika had earlier also sparked a social media debate after she was seen absent from the special screening of Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, but was spotted attending a concert in Mumbai just the very next day.

Several users on social media went on to question her absence from the film’s screening, with them criticising the actress and drawing comparisons with her other public outing.

For the uninitiated, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge was released on the 19th of March.

Talking about Suzanne Bernert, the actress has been a part of many Bollywood movies and Hindi television shows.

She was seen in projects like Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Udaan, Sanskaar Lakshmi, The accidental prime minister, Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat and many more.

She is also known as late actor Akhil Mishra's wife who passed away in 2023 after slipping from his kitchen balcony.

—IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming horror comedy Bhooth Bangla, suffered an injury while performing a high-octane stunt for the film.

The makers on Thursday shared a BTS video of Bhooth Bangla featuring Akshay, popularly known for performing his own stunts, who was seen performing a high-octane sequence, executing a dramatic jump kick mid-air.

However, while landing, he loses balance and falls, hurting himself in the process.

Akshay recently shared that he opposes the use of VFX and AI as it takes away the real thrill of action, making it feel artificial. He shared his preference for performing real stunts instead of relying on VFX or AI, as it allows audiences to truly feel the effort and authenticity.

The film also stars Paresh Rawal, Asrani, and Rajpal Yadav and Wamiqa Gabbi. The film was earlier scheduled to release on April 10, however, the makers of the film announced a new release date on April 2.

The film is now scheduled for an April 16 release. Co-producer Ektaa Kapoor took to her Instagram and shared that the film was release date was pushed due to the exceptional performance of the Ranveer Singh-starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’.

The post read: “After a collective call with our distributors and the exhibitors, we have decided on a new release date for ‘Bhooth Bangla’, 16 April, with the first show starting at 9 pm. ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ performing exceptionally well is heartening news for our film industry and the exhibitors feel that this shift will allow both films the space, focus and attention they deserve. The ‘Bhooth Bangla’ team looks forward to welcoming you in cinemas on April 16, 9 pm onwards”.

The film is presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with Cape of Good Films.

Produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor, and Ektaa R Kapoor, and directed by Priyadarshan, the film is set to debut in cinemas on April 16.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Actress Tanvi Shewale, who stars in the show “Udne Ki Asha”, has opened up about the crucial moment in the storyline and said that even she’s curious to see how the revelation will shape her character’s journey and what lies ahead for her.

The drama in Udne Ki Aasha is all set to take an intense turn as a long-buried secret from Roshni’s past finally begins to surface. In the upcoming episode this Sunday, a major revelation will be revealed that could change the course of her character Roshni’s life and the dynamics within the family forever.

For a long time, Roshni has managed to keep parts of her past carefully hidden, presenting only what she wants the family to see. But as the truth slowly begins to emerge, the identity connected to the name ‘Kalyani’ threatens to unravel everything she has built so far.

Opening up about this crucial moment in the storyline, Tanvi, who plays Roshni, shared that the truth behind ‘Kalyani’ is far more significant than viewers might expect.

"Roshni has always been a layered character, and what she shows the world is never the complete truth,” Tanvi said.

She shared that the name Kalyani also represents the antagonist’s past.

“The name ‘Kalyani’ is not just an identity, it represents her entire past that she had tried to keep hidden for so long. As this truth comes out, it will bring several consequences into Roshni’s life. Before she can even think about moving forward or starting a family, she will have to face the impact of everything that is about to be revealed.”

Looking forward to the twists and turns, Tanvi added: “Honestly, even I’m curious to see how this revelation will shape her journey and what lies ahead for her."

Udne Ki Aasha airs every night at 9:00 PM on Star Plus.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Actor Zaheer Iqbal, husband of actress Sonakshi Sinha, seems to have injured himself during a game of Padel.

Zaheer shared a picture of himself on a social media account wherein he was seen having an injury on his head.

A small bandage is seen placed above his left eyebrow, indicating an injury.

The actor, sharing the picture on his social media account, wrote, “First Padel Injury.”

Talking about Zaheer, the actor is in the fitness league and openly shares many videos and photos of himself engrossed in his workout sessions.

Apart from being an actor and a fitness freak Zaheer is also a heavy ‘prankster’.

The actor is often seen pranking his own wife and actress Sonakshi Sinha.

Sonakshi and Zaheer who are touted as one of the most chaotic duos of Bollywood, never miss even a single opportunity to pull pranks on one another.

Apart from pulling pranks at each other's expense, Sonakshi and Zaheer also flaunt their romantic side on social media.

Talking about their love story, after dating for almost 7 years, Sonakshi and Zaheer tied the knot on June 23, 2024, in a civil wedding at the former's house in Mumbai.

On the professional front, Sonakshi was last seen in "Jatadhara", where she shared screen space with Sudheer Babu. The movie was released in both Hindi and Telugu on November 7, 2025.

Zaheer has been a part of movies like The Notebook and Double XL.

Double XL along with Zaheer Iqbal, also starred actress Sonakshi Sinha.

The two met on the sets of the movie and fell head over heels in love.

–IANS

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