Mumbai, Aug 26 (IANS) Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone shared that becoming a famous actor or writer was never his goal, adding that he was drawn to the artistic world and willing to either succeed spectacularly or fail just as dramatically.

Stallone took to Instagram, where he shared a grainy old picture of himself from his younger days and a photograph of his book cover.

Taking to the caption section, Stallone wrote: “It was never the pursuit of “fame” or money that I was after. I never, ever pictured myself as a famous actor or writer.”

“I just knew there was something in that artistic world that I craved. I would either hit the mark or fail in a very big way; the idea of being a “movie star” never really entered my mind,” he added.

The octogenarian made his screen debut in 1970 with "The Party at Kitty and Stud's". Before becoming a Hollywood icon, Stallone took on a few uncredited roles in films like Downhill Racer and Bananas.

His official launch into mainstream cinema came in 1974 with his starring role in "The Lords of Flatbush". Shortly after, he wrote and starred in the 1976 blockbuster "Rocky", which established him as a global icon.

Regarded as an icon of action cinema, Stallone after Rocky portrayed the PTSD-plagued soldier John Rambo in First Blood, a role he would play across five Rambo films.

From the mid-1980s to the late 1990s, Stallone would go on to become one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors, acting in action films such as Cobra, Tango and Cash, Cliffhanger, Demolition Man, and The Specialist. At the height of his career, Stallone was known for his rivalry with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

He was then seen in The Expendables film franchise. In 2013, he starred in the successful film Escape Plan and appeared in its sequels. In 2015, he returned to Rocky again with Creed, in which a retired Rocky mentors former rival Apollo Creed's son Adonis Creed.

On the work front, the actor is currently working on the much-anticipated project ‘Frisco King’

--IANS

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New York, Aug 26 (IANS) “It’s great to be back in New York,” Roger Federer said after making an emotional return to the US Open, as the 20-time Grand Slam champion was given a hero’s welcome at Arthur Ashe Stadium during a memorable exhibition night.

Federer, who retired from the professional game in 2022, delighted a capacity New York crowd with a set against old rival Andy Roddick, winning 6-3, before pairing up with John McEnroe to beat Andre Agassi and Roddick 7-5 in a doubles match.

“It’s great to be back in New York,” Federer said. “It’s incredible. I have incredible memories of this court, the fans here, the city. In 2004, 2005 — that’s when it all started here, my love for New York with the victories here.”

The Swiss, who last played at the US Open in 2019, was greeted with applause as he entered the world's biggest tennis-only stadium.

Federer won five straight US Opens from 2004-2008 and talked about the special connection he formed with the tournament and the city.

“I fell in love with this city and this court from day one,” Federer said.

The Swiss recalled his first appearance on the Arthur Ashe Stadium centre court, which came against Agassi in 2001. Federer lost that encounter in straight sets.

“I believe my first time on the center court was against Andre [in 2001]. He smashed me 6-1, 6-2, 6-4. I had no shot. I was like, ‘Okay, not so easy, not so fast, Roger’,” he added with a laugh.

It was part of a star-studded nite celebrating the longstanding legacy of Federer in the sport. The stadium’s video board showed a hype video narrated by actor Matthew McConaughey, and fashion icon Anna Wintour did the coin toss before Federer’s singles match against Roddick. Several current and former tennis stars, including Serena Williams, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Casper Ruud and Alexandra Eala, were also in attendance. Federer’s return to the US Open comes just days before another big milestone in his post-playing career. The Swiss, who celebrated his 45th birthday earlier this month, will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday, August 29.

“It’s gonna be an epic weekend for tennis in general. I’m so happy that I’m going to be up there [in Newport] for a couple days to witness it. And have fun, that would be my recommendation. I know he will.”

Agassi, another of Federer's former rivals, also welcomed the Swiss' induction while joking about the longevity of his Grand Slam career.

“How cool is it that this dude is going in the Hall of Fame this year? Well done, Roger. I’m so pumped. I gotta say — I think I was the first person to know he was going to make the Hall of Fame. When he won his 19th Slam, I was like, ‘Yeah, he’s got this’,” Agassi said.

“I thought the 20th was unnecessary and a little bit on the insecure side,” the American sarcastically joked. “Nevertheless, I’m really pumped because it makes everybody else who’s figured out how to barely get in feel a heck of a lot better about themselves.”

Roddick, meanwhile, reflected on his long-standing friendship with Federer, despite their fierce rivalry on court.

“We obviously played a bunch and he beat me a bunch. But we were always able to navigate a friendship through the middle of our careers and that’s lasted until now and hopefully will last forever,” Roddick said.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, Aug 26 (IANS) Six people, including five women, were killed and 20 others injured after a private bus rammed into a container truck in Telangana's Suryapet district in the early hours of Wednesday.

The accident took place on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada National Highway Dwarakunta in Kodad Mandal.

The accident took place at around 4.30 a.m. when the bus, which was travelling from Hyderabad to Eluru via Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, collided with the stationary truck from behind.

Police suspect that the truck had come to a halt after hitting a road divider before the speeding bus rammed into it from behind. The impact of the collision left the front portion of the bus severely damaged.

According to police, the bus was carrying 42 people. Six passengers died on the spot while 20 others were injured. The injured were shifted to government hospital at Kodad. Some of them were stated to be in critical condition.

Police rushed to the spot and launched rescue and relief operations with the help of personnel.

Three of the deceased were identified Y. Chinni (32), B. Mary Joshna (29) and Chennakeshavulu Nagendrababu (21).

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed shock over the road accident in Suryapet district. He conveyed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.

The Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary to ensure that the injured receive best medical care.

Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy expressed condolences over the death of six people in the accident.

He conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the deceased. The minister directed officials to ensure that the injured receive quality medical treatment. He wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.

The transport minister said there should be no compromise on safety standards in private buses and driver alertness. He said officials must enforce stricter monitoring to ensure strict adherence to road safety regulations.

The minister advised private bus travellers and drivers to prioritise passenger safety above all else.

He instructed officials to take all necessary measures to prevent road accidents.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 26 (IANS) Popular television actress Nia Sharma is embracing a “fuss-free” approach to beauty and life as she said she is equally comfortable without make-up and cheekily adding that anyone can become a “diva” by dolling up.

Nia shared a string of pictures flaunting her makeup-free look, along with a few glimpses of herself all dolled up.

“Don’t mess with a girl who’s living a makeup-free life with equal ease … makeup karke to koi bhi Divaaaa ban jata hai (anyone can become a diva with make-up). To a fuss free life,” she wrote as the caption.

Just a few days ago, the actress spoke about the very real contrast between her polished Instagram videos and her everyday, makeup-free life. She spoke about embracing dark circles, messy hair, and feeling bloated.

The actress quipped about the struggle of looking at her own reflection while saying that perhaps she is simply bored and needs to “get in my element again.”

The actress wrote in the caption: “Tripping on your own looks while sitting idle in bed, looking homeless, living a makeup free life, making peace with your dark circles, hair tied in a ponytail, thinking about taking a shower or dropping it…. Eating like a pig bloated as usual and then watching that waist of yours…..”

“The IG videos we post and how we’re looking at the moment are two extremes, gets hard to deal with your own self…. or maybe I am bored and I just need to get in my element again,” Nia added.

Talking about the actress, she was recently seen in two shows. She was first seen in the sixteenth season of Splitsvilla hosted by Sunny Leone and Karan Kundrra. Nia was also seen in the new edition of “Laughter Chefs Fun Unlimited.”

Talking about Nia, she is also known for her roles in ‘Behenein’, 'Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai’.‘Meri Durga’, ‘Kaali - Ek Agnipariksha’. In 2020, she participated in ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi: Made in India’ and emerged as the winner. Nia has also worked in web series like ‘Twisted’, and ‘Jamai 2.0’.

--IANS

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Washington, Aug 26 (IANS) The Republican chairman of the US House Select Committee on China has accused three American financial institutions of helping Chinese-founded fast-fashion company Shein pursue a Hong Kong listing despite allegations linking its supply chain to forced labour.

Congressman John Moolenaar called on the three American financial institutions, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, to withdraw their support for Shein’s planned initial public offering, which he said was expected on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange next month.

Moolenaar said Shein had previously failed to secure listings in New York and London because of concerns over forced labour.

“For major U.S. banks to bankroll Shein’s IPO shows these institutions have no regard for human rights or the victims of forced labor who will be forced to pick cotton for Shein’s clothes,” Moolenaar said in a statement.

He accused the banks of being used by the Chinese Communist Party to bring foreign capital into China’s economy and financial markets.

“These American banks are being used as a tool by the CCP to bolster their declining economy and capital markets with outside money, enabling a CCP Ponzi scheme on the rest of the world,” Moolenaar said.

The lawmaker also questioned the banks’ stated commitments to US national security and human rights while supporting the proposed listing.

“It is unconscionable for the American leaders of these institutions to claim they care about U.S. national security and then underwrite a company tied to the CCP and its forced labor and genocide,” he said.

“Enabling the human rights abuses of Shein and the CCP is a stain they will never be able to wash out unless they end their support for this IPO immediately,” Moolenaar added.

The committee’s statement did not provide details about the specific roles being performed by JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs or Morgan Stanley in the proposed offering.

It also did not say how much Shein planned to raise through the listing or provide a precise date for the transaction.

No response from Shein or the three banks was included in the committee’s statement.

The accusations against Shein were made by Moolenaar and have not been presented as findings by a court or regulatory authority in the latest statement.

An initial public offering allows a privately owned company to sell shares to investors through a public stock exchange. Investment banks typically help structure an offering, prepare documentation, assess investor demand and sell shares.

Shein became one of the world’s largest online fashion retailers by offering an extensive range of inexpensive clothing and rapidly changing product lines.

The company’s supply chain and its possible exposure to cotton or other materials originating in China’s Xinjiang region have drawn scrutiny from American lawmakers.

The US government has accused China of committing genocide and crimes against humanity against Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. Beijing has denied allegations of widespread forced labour and human-rights abuses in the region.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 26 (IANS) Politician and former IPS officer, K. Annamalai, is set to organise a month-long awareness campaign on women’s safety across Tamil Nadu in September under the banner of his organisation, 'We The Leaders’.

The campaign will focus on educating the public about the challenges faced by women and the importance of creating safer spaces for them.

Volunteers associated with the organisation are expected to conduct awareness programmes and community-level activities in different parts of the State throughout the month.

Annamalai launched ‘We The Leaders’ after leaving the Bharatiya Janata Party. He is also reportedly preparing to establish a new political party.

Ahead of formally announcing his political plans, he has been undertaking a series of social awareness initiatives with the support of volunteers from the organisation.

These campaigns are being viewed as part of his efforts to connect with people across Tamil Nadu and expand his organisation’s presence at the grassroots level.

Each month, ‘We The Leaders’ has been concentrating on a specific social issue and carrying out related public outreach activities.

In July, Annamalai led an extensive campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. The initiative sought to educate young people and families about the growing threat posed by narcotic substances and the need for community participation in preventing drug addiction.

During August, the organisation shifted its attention to environmental conservation. Volunteers have been involved in cleaning beaches, rivers and other water bodies across the State.

According to the organisation, around 190 tonnes of waste has so far been removed as part of the drive.

‘We The Leaders’ has also undertaken a large-scale tree-planting campaign. The organisation claims that nearly seven lakh saplings have been planted in different parts of Tamil Nadu under its banner. The initiative is intended to increase green cover and encourage public participation in environmental protection.

Following the anti-drug and environmental campaigns, women’s safety will become the central theme of the organisation’s activities in September.

The planned programmes are expected to highlight the need to prevent violence and harassment against women while encouraging greater public vigilance and responsibility.

Meanwhile, ‘We The Leaders’ has claimed a substantial increase in its membership since its formation.

According to the organisation, 19.62 lakh people have joined it so far, giving Annamalai a sizeable volunteer network as he prepares for his next political move.

—IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 26 (IANS) The revenue growth of India’s IT sector is expected to remain stable at 6 per cent in FY27, supported by steady technology exports, AI adoption and policy support, a new report showed on Wednesday.

Operating margins are projected to recover to 21.8 per cent, while debt-to-equity declines to 0.1 and debt service coverage rises to 16.8 in FY27, as credit outlook remains stable, the report mentioned.

According to Brickwork Ratings, India's IT sector is undergoing a structural shift from volume-based contracts to high-value digital services, driven by hyper-automation and artificial intelligence (AI).

The sector recorded $418 billion in services exports in FY26, while revenue growth is estimated at 6.1 per cent in FY26 and projected at 6.0 per cent in FY27.

Early results for Q1 FY27 from the sector’s largest firms broadly validate this trajectory.

The report said that India's IT services sector began FY27 on a soft note. Larger tier-1 firms posted modest low-single-digit growth in constant currency terms, though revenue in rupee terms appeared higher on account of currency depreciation, while margins came under pressure from annual wage hikes and continued investment in AI talent.

Mid-sized firms fared somewhat better on growth, and steady deal wins and rising AI-led revenue helped keep the sector's medium-term outlook intact.

India's second position globally in AI skill development and India AI Mission's deployment of more than 38,000 GPUs are supporting the sector's transition, according to the ratings agency.

“More than 1,700 Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are leveraging domestic data-centre capacity, expanding at over 20 per cent annually. The sector further benefits from a 15.5 per cent common safe harbour margin for consolidated IT categories introduced in the Union Budget 2026-27,” said Rajeev Sharan, Head of Research, Brickwork Ratings.

The US and Europe accounted for 52.9 per cent and 32.8 per cent, respectively, of IT spending in FY25, creating geographical concentration risk.

“That said, rapid AI adoption also requires continuous investment in skills to address potential skill obsolescence,” said Sharan.

—IANS

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Mumbai, August 26 (IANS) Actress and former Lock Upp Season 2 contestant Akanksha Chamola has opened up about the much-discussed third secret she was expected to reveal on Lock Upp 2.

She further spoke about pregnancy rumours surrounding it, and the reaction of her family and in-laws to the revelations she made during her stint on the reality show.

In an exclusive interaction with IANS, Akanksha was asked about speculation that her third secret could be related to pregnancy.

Refusing to give away anything, Akanksha who seemed panicky upon being asked about her pregnancy rumours, said, “No, no, no. Flip the question. I will get paid for the third secret. If someone says anything over it, I will reveal the third secret. Otherwise, I will not reveal it.”

The actress's response came amid intense speculation on social media that her mysterious third secret could be about pregnancy. However, Akanksha never confirmed the speculation and was eliminated from the show before she could reveal her third secret.

During her stint on Lock Upp 2, Akanksha had revealed two secrets. The first was about her separation from her husband, actor Gaurav Khanna. She later revealed that she is bisexual, making the revelation one of the most talked-about moments of her journey on the show.

Akanksha also addressed whether her parents or Gaurav's parents had reacted to the revelations she made on the show.

She said she was unaware of their reactions after coming out of Lock Upp, adding that her in-laws had not approached her about anything because they do not speak to each other.

“My in-laws did not say anything because we do not talk to each other. And what would my parents say? Our parents are our own. Which parent would say anything to their child?” she said.

While inside the Lock Upp house, Akanksha had also hinted at the seriousness of the third secret, saying that if she revealed it, she and Gaurav could potentially be “lynched publicly”. This further fuelled speculation among viewers, with many attempting to decode what the secret could be.

Talking about the revelations being described by some as “very dark”, Akanksha disagreed with the perception. She explained that she had been living with her parents for the past one-and-a-half years and therefore, what she revealed was not entirely unexpected for them.

“I do not think it was a dark revelation. I think it was something that I have been living with my parents for the last one-and-a-half years, so it was not big news. They would not have anticipated it, but it was bound to happen. They were prepared in a way. It was just that they came to know about it through Netflix. As far as bisexuality is concerned, I think they also came to know about it,” she said.

Akanksha's bisexuality revelation became a major talking point during her time on Lock Upp. She had spoken about being bisexual and having had relationships with women before her marriage to Gaurav. The revelation also led to discussions around her personal life and her relationship with Gaurav.

–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, August 26 (IANS) Actress and former Lock Upp Season 2 contestant Akanksha Chamola has opened up about the much-discussed third secret she was expected to reveal on Lock Upp 2.

She further spoke about pregnancy rumours surrounding it, and the reaction of her family and in-laws to the revelations she made during her stint on the reality show.

In an exclusive interaction with IANS, Akanksha was asked about speculation that her third secret could be related to pregnancy.

Refusing to give away anything, Akanksha who seemed panicky upon being asked about her pregnancy rumours, said, “No, no, no. Flip the question. I will get paid for the third secret. If someone says anything over it, I will reveal the third secret. Otherwise, I will not reveal it.”

The actress's response came amid intense speculation on social media that her mysterious third secret could be about pregnancy. However, Akanksha never confirmed the speculation and was eliminated from the show before she could reveal her third secret.

During her stint on Lock Upp 2, Akanksha had revealed two secrets. The first was about her separation from her husband, actor Gaurav Khanna. She later revealed that she is bisexual, making the revelation one of the most talked-about moments of her journey on the show.

Akanksha also addressed whether her parents or Gaurav's parents had reacted to the revelations she made on the show.

She said she was unaware of their reactions after coming out of Lock Upp, adding that her in-laws had not approached her about anything because they do not speak to each other.

“My in-laws did not say anything because we do not talk to each other. And what would my parents say? Our parents are our own. Which parent would say anything to their child?” she said.

While inside the Lock Upp house, Akanksha had also hinted at the seriousness of the third secret, saying that if she revealed it, she and Gaurav could potentially be “lynched publicly”. This further fuelled speculation among viewers, with many attempting to decode what the secret could be.

Talking about the revelations being described by some as “very dark”, Akanksha disagreed with the perception. She explained that she had been living with her parents for the past one-and-a-half years and therefore, what she revealed was not entirely unexpected for them.

“I do not think it was a dark revelation. I think it was something that I have been living with my parents for the last one-and-a-half years, so it was not big news. They would not have anticipated it, but it was bound to happen. They were prepared in a way. It was just that they came to know about it through Netflix. As far as bisexuality is concerned, I think they also came to know about it,” she said.

Akanksha's bisexuality revelation became a major talking point during her time on Lock Upp. She had spoken about being bisexual and having had relationships with women before her marriage to Gaurav. The revelation also led to discussions around her personal life and her relationship with Gaurav.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 26 (IANS) Filmmaker Anees Bazmee has marked 21 years of the cult comedy “No Entry” starring Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan.

He took to Instagram, where he shared the making of the film, which released in 2005 and is is an official remake of the Tamil film Charlie Chaplin.

“21 years of No Entry- a film that found a place in the hearts of audiences across generations.

Today, I look back with immense gratitude for the journey, the team, the memories, and most importantly our audience @beingsalmankhan @anilskapoor @fardeenfkhan @bipashabasu @boman_irani @larabhupathi @celinajaitlyofficial @anumalikmusic @salimsulaimanmusic #21yearsofnoentry #21yearsoflaughter,” Bazmee wrote as the caption.

No Entry also stars Bipasha Basu, Esha Deol, Lara Dutta, Celina Jaitly. It attained blockbuster success, grossing a worldwide total of Rs. 74 crore, thus becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of 2005.

The film follows the story of a newspaper owner, who has always been faithful to his wife, Kaajal, who constantly suspects him of having affairs.

Meanwhile, Kishan's married friend Prem frequently cheats on his doting wife, Pooja, without getting caught, incurring the disapproval of Kishan and photographer Sunny. Tired of listening to his moralistic friends, Prem introduces Kishan to Bobby, an attractive woman.

Bazmee later scripted and wrote a 2011 romantic comedy produced by Ronnie Screwvala and Twinkle Khanna which was based on a similar theme; titled Thank You, it starred Khanna's husband, actor Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor's daughter Sonam, and Jaitley among the ensemble cast.

Talking about Bazmee, he made his directorial debut with Hulchul in 1995. His commercial success came in 1998 with the film Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of the year.

He achieved further success as well as recognition by directing the top-grossing comedies including No Entry, Welcome, Singh Is Kinng, Ready, Welcome Back, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, while also receiving praise for directing the moderately successful romantic thriller Deewangee.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 26 (IANS) As Dolly Parton passed away aged 80, names such as Cyndi Lauper, Oprah Winfrey, Paul McCartney, Rod Stewart, Goldie Hawn and Ethan Hawke to name a few have paid heartfelt tributes to the country legend, remembering her immense talent, generosity, warmth and lasting impact.

Cyndi Lauper wrote: “It’s hard for me to imagine the world without Dolly. Dolly’s heart was as big as her talent. She was not only a great singer/song writer/actress/TV star, Dolly also lived her art. She used her art, her fame and her money to help so many people. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, “What would Dolly do?” She was a great role model for all of us.”

Lauper hopes Parton is in a place with “Carl, her Mom and Dad and all her loved ones who’ve passed. She will be so missed. Rest in Peace Dolly.”

Oprah Winfrey wrote: “One of my fondest memories with @dollyparton: Having a hoot and a holler while wearing Bob Mackie gowns on her show Dolly.”

“This girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee dreamed a life and then lived a life bigger than she could have ever imagined, giving so generously to others in ways we saw and ways we didn’t.

Oprah said that there’s no one like Dolly.

“No one like her. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here.God bless you, Dolly—you earned your wings,” she added.

Sir Rod Stewart said that he is “absolutely floored” after knowing bout the “Jolene” hitmaker’s passing.

“I’ve just gotten over Bonnie leaving us RIP my darling Dolly,” he added.

Paul Mccartney called Parton a “maginificent star”.

“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career.”

Mccartney added: “She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.”

“She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents. Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.”

Veteran star Goldie Hawn recalled the first time she met Parton.

“This was the first day I met Dolly. She was a ray of light! Even then, she was lit up like an angel, a joyful, celestial being. Dolly blessed us all for generations to come. Rest, dear Angel, and, as you said, keep the angels creating music and singing in the heavens,” Hawn wrote.

Actor Ethan Hawke described Parton as “a woman of integrity.”

“I got to meet Dolly Parton, and everything everyone is saying about her was true. Deep, serious, playful, loving, wise…. A woman of integrity. A North Star. She knew how to make a positive impact and have a laugh while doing it. I left her presence lighter and charged to be better,” he wrote.

Sia mentioned: “An honor and a privilege, you will be sorely missed, legend. Oh Dolly. - here I am.

Actor Mike Myers said that “a young me to the left of an American Genius. #ripdolly you will be missed.”

Kelly Clarkson said that Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, seen, and welcomed as if you were old friends.

“I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will. What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us,” Clarkson said.

Dolly Parton passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who was also her head of security, revealed the news in an Instagram video. She died after a brief battle with cancer.

--IANS

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Mumbai, August 26 (IANS) Choreographer Geeta Kapur recalled Hrithik Roshan's attitude and approach at work during the making of his debut film Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai in late 1999.

Geeta stated that the entire set would be in awe of Hrithik looking at how he was so prepared and receptive to inputs from the director and choreographer. She added that it was difficult to believe he was a newcomer.

Sharing a special memory from the making of the film, Geeta, who is currently seen in the dance reality show, India's Best Dancer, revealed that she had the opportunity to assist on every song in Hrithik Roshan's debut film.

Recalling her first impressions of the actor, she said his preparation, willingness to learn and ability to understand choreography made her feel that he had far more experience than a newcomer.

Geeta Kapur said, “Isse pehle ki woh set pe aate hain, shoot karte hain, unhone itna homework, itna study, itna sab kuch seekh liya tha ki dancing mujhe kis tarah se karni hai. Itna khula mann aur dimaag tha, choreographer ki baat sunna, director ki bhi baat sunna. Kyunki kirdar aisa tha ki first half mein jo ladka tha, woh ek slow, soft, good boy tha, aur phir second half mein this Casanova, good looking, fantastic dancer. Jis tarah se usne play kiya, I was shocked. Like, yeh kaise kar leta hai yaar? Naya hai, kuch toh khamiyan ho, kuch toh galtiyan ho. For me, he was perfect, har take mein perfect.”

(Before he came on the set and started shooting, he had done so much homework, so much study, and had learnt so much about how he needed to dance. He had such an open mind and was so willing to listen to the choreographer and the director. The character was such that in the first half, the boy was slow, soft and a good boy, and then in the second half, he became this Casanova — good-looking and a fantastic dancer. The way he played it, I was shocked. I wondered, ‘How does he do this?’ He was new, so there had to be some shortcomings or some mistakes. But for me, he was perfect, perfect in every take)

Geeta said she was fortunate to have assisted on every song in Hrithik's debut film and remembered how his dancing immediately stood out.

She said, “Mera saubhagya tha ki Hrithik Roshan ki debut film mein har gaane mein main assist kar rahi thi. Every song in that film. Maine bohot samay ke baad ek aisa artist dekha, ek aisa ladka dekha who defined a good dancer on screen. Actor bhi achha, dancing bhi. Jaise usse pehle humare liye reference point pe sirf Govinda ji the, jo dancing hero the. Uske baad Hrithik Roshan ka ek daur aaya. Jab hum assist karte the toh hum baat karte the ki yeh ladke ka pehli film hai? Impossible! Kyunki he was so good.”

(I was fortunate that I was assisting on every song in Hrithik Roshan’s debut film. Every song in that film. After a very long time, I saw an artist, a boy, who defined what a good dancer could be on screen. He was a good actor and a good dancer too. Before him, our reference point for a dancing hero was Govinda ji. After that came the era of Hrithik Roshan. When we were assisting, we would wonder, ‘Is this boy really doing his first film? Impossible!’ Because he was so good)

Geeta also recalled teaching Hrithik the iconic hook step of ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’, and said his natural body movement gave the step a quality that she has not seen anyone else replicate in the same way.

Speaking about the iconic hook step, she said, “Yeh gaana jab main sikhane gayi, I was like hum log kar lenge. Lekin jo unka addition hai, unki body ka ek lachilaapan tha, the way he did that step. Hazaar log karte hain woh ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’ ka hook step, maine kisi aur ko unki tarah karte hue nahi dekha hai.”

(When I went to teach this song, I thought, ‘We will manage it.’ But what he added to it, the flexibility in his body and the way he did that step, was something special. Thousands of people perform the hook step from ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’, but I have never seen anyone else do it the way he did)

Talking about Hrithik Roshan, the superstar made his acting debut with Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai, which released in January 2000 and was directed, written and produced by his father, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan.

The film also marked actress Ameesha Patel's acting debut and featured Anupam Kher, Dalip Tahil, Mohnish Bahl, Farida Jalal, Satish Shah and Ashish Vidyarthi, among others.

The film turned Hrithik into a sensation almost overnight. His looks, dancing ability, screen presence and performance became the talking point.

Hrithik then went on to headline films such as Koi... Mil Gaya, Dhoom 2, Jodhaa Akbar, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Agneepath, Krrish 3 and War, while establishing himself for both his acting and dancing.

–IANS

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