Kanpur, Sep 2 (IANS) A 58-year-old woman was found murdered during a robbery at her residence in the Keshavpuram area of Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur. Police suspect that the perpetrators may have been familiar with the house and had prior knowledge of where valuables were kept, officials said.

The deceased has been identified as Uma Kushwaha, who was allegedly killed during a robbery at her residence on Tuesday evening.

Uma's body was found seated on a chair inside the house, with a bruise visible on her neck, while belongings were found scattered across different parts of the residence, indicating that a search for valuables may have taken place.

However, police and forensic teams examining the scene did not find any apparent signs of forced entry into the house. This has led investigators to suspect that the accused may have been known to the family or could have had detailed information about the house and its occupants.

Officials suspect that the accused had complete knowledge of the residence and knew where cash and jewellery were kept. Investigators also believe that the accused appeared to know where the keys to the elder son's cupboard were kept. Uma's husband, Shivmangal, reached home shortly after the incident.

According to police, only the cupboard belonging to the elder son, Amrish, was found broken, while the cupboard of the younger son, Ashish, had not been disturbed. Shivmangal told police that the cupboard contained jewellery belonging to his elder son's wife, Neha, as well as Uma.

The key to the cupboard was reportedly kept inside a safe at the house. Police said the cupboard itself appeared to have been opened using a key, while the locker containing the jewellery had been broken with a sharp object.

Amrish has been living with his wife, Neha, in a separate house in Maswanpur for the past nine years. The father and son jointly operate a book stall at a shop located in the market.

The circumstances surrounding the robbery and murder have led investigators to examine whether the accused had prior information about the family's belongings and the location of the keys, particularly since there were no obvious signs that the house had been forcibly entered.

Teams from Rawatpur Police Station and DCP West S.M. Qasim Abdi are actively investigating the case.

Speaking to reporters, DCP West S.M. Qasim Abdi said, "The body was immediately taken into custody and sent for a post-mortem examination. The surrounding CCTV footage is currently being scrutinised. Prima facie, there are no signs of any forced entry into the house, nor is there any evidence of forcible entry."

Speaking to IANS, tenant Sapna Gupta recalled the events that led to the discovery of Uma's body. She said the family initially became concerned when Uma did not respond to repeated phone calls.

" Around 7:00, when it was time to fill water, my husband called Aunty's phone to ask her to start the water, but there was no reply. Then her husband called, and there was still no reply. My husband then called Uncle to inform him that Aunty wasn't picking up the phone. When the call connected, Uncle asked us to go open the door and check... When my husband pushed the door, we found her like this," Sapna said.

Police and forensic teams have collected evidence from the residence and are examining the available CCTV footage as part of efforts to establish the sequence of events.

Investigators are also questioning people familiar with the family and the locality to determine whether anyone had prior knowledge of the valuables kept inside the house.

Further details are awaited.

--IANS

sd/

Mumbai, Sep 2 (IANS) Actor Akshay Oberoi, whose latest release is the Yash-starrer “Toxic”, has bought a farmhouse in Karjat and said that having a home surrounded by nature has always been a dream.

Sharing his excitement for his property, which was under construction for 1.5 years, Akshay said in a statement: “This farmhouse is more than just a property; it’s my sanctuary. A place where I can disconnect from the chaos of Mumbai and reconnect with myself and my family.”

“The idea of having a home surrounded by nature has always been a dream. It’s soothing and gives me the perfect escape from my hectic schedule. Spending quality time with my wife and son here is truly priceless. It’s where I can relax, rejuvenate, and simply enjoy the little moments of life.”

The farmhouse, located in the scenic town of Karjat, is a holiday home crafted with Akshay's personal touch. Though landscaping work is still underway, the house is already a haven for the actor and his loved ones.

Akshay recently celebrated Christmas and New Year at the farmhouse, surrounded by close friends and family, marking the beginning of a new chapter in this beautiful retreat.

He added: “I feel incredibly blessed. This farmhouse wouldn’t have been possible without the fruitful projects I’ve been a part of recently. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come and how much I have to be thankful for.”

Talking about Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups is a gangster film. It stars Yash in a dual role, alongside Kiara, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria and Rukmini Vasanth. Toxic is reportedly budgeted at Rs. 500−1,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever made.

Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups explores the life of Raya, a violent gangster and playboy who rose to power in the underworld crime before his eventual downfall. Years later, he has to face his biological son Rumi / Ticket, who prepared his revenge on Raya, after the latter abandoned him and his wife.

--IANS

dc/

Kolkata, Sep 2 (IANS) With a target of completing polls for the different urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including municipal corporations and municipalities in the state, by the end of the year, the West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) had convened a crucial meeting later in the day to discuss the preparedness for those elections.

The District Magistrates of the districts where elections for such urban civic body polls will be held have been asked to be present at the meeting. The meeting will review factors such as the prevailing situation in the urban civic bodies and the availability of EVMs for that, among others.

Of the urban civic bodies slated to go for polls by the end of the current calendar year, the most crucial are the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), the oldest municipal corporation in the state and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC).

Both municipal corporations are currently in the delimitation phase. In KMC, the draft delimitation proposal had suggested increasing the number of wards from 144 to 209, although the final figure is likely to reach 211. In HMC, the draft proposal envisages raising the number of wards from 50 to 68.

As a result, the upcoming elections in the two municipal corporation areas are to be held based on the new ward layout. The increase in the number of wards has brought about major changes in the layout of voters, electoral preparations and administrative management. Political observers consider the reorganisation to be very crucial for the electoral map of these two urban civic bodies, especially in the case of Kolkata.

However, an insider from the WBSEC said the main issue that is keeping the Commission worried about the forthcoming urban civic bodies is the lack of EVMs for that purpose. So, the Commission has already approached the Calcutta High Court in the matter

“Several election petition cases related to the recent West Bengal Assembly polls earlier this year are pending in the Calcutta High Court. In all those cases, the court has ordered the Election Commission of India to preserve EVM machines, VVPATs and other materials from various centres. As a result, the announcement of the municipal body elections might be delayed due to the lack of EVMs. In the wake of such development, we have approached the Calcutta High Court for an urgent hearing in the matter, ” the WBSEC insider said.

An urgent hearing of the case was requested before the division bench of the Calcutta High Court’s Acting Chief Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Atarup Banerjee. The matter is likely to be heard next week.

--IANS

src/dpb

Seoul, Sep 2 (IANS) South Korea's consumer prices moved up 3.1 per cent in August from a year earlier as oil prices remained elevated, along with higher mobile service subscription charges due to a low base effect from large-scale discounts offered last year following a hacking incident, data showed on Wednesday.

According to data from the Ministry of Data and Statistics, consumer price growth reached above 3 percent in August, accelerating from a 2.8 percent on-year rise in July.

The consumer price increase came to 3.1 percent and 3.2 percent in May and June, respectively, reports Yonhap news agency.

The latest figures came as oil prices remained elevated by moving up 14.2 percent on-year in August, although the growth slowed from 15.6 percent posted in July.

Oil prices contributed 0.54 percentage point of the on-year consumer price growth in August, down from 0.6 percentage point posted in July.

In August, diesel prices rose sharply by 19.6 percent and gasoline prices advanced 11.5 percent.

South Korea relies heavily on imports to meet its energy needs.

The increase was also partly driven by a 26.7 percent rise in mobile phone service charges, reflecting a low base from a year earlier, when SK Telecom Co. offered large-scale discounts following a data breach.

The data ministry suggested that without the mobile bill-related factor, the consumer price hike for August was estimated at 2.5 percent.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also advanced 3.4 percent on-year in August. It was the highest level since 3.8 percent posted in May 2023.

The report showed that prices of overall industrial products rose 3.7 percent from a year earlier in August.

Prices of agricultural, livestock and fishery products, on the other hand, fell 2.6 percent, led by lower prices of napa cabbage and tomatoes.

The data ministry attributed the decrease to the government-led discount events along with an increase in the supply of major produce.

The report showed that prices of imported beef and domestically produced beef rose 6.2 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively.

Prices in the service sector rose 3.7 percent, led by higher insurance premiums and overseas package tour prices, which increased 13.4 percent and 14.9 percent, respectively.

Prices of electricity, gas and water rose 0.4 percent over the period.

—IANS

na/

Mumbai, Sep 2 (IANS) Domestic equity benchmarks opened sharply lower on Wednesday weighed down by a surge in crude oil prices after the US and Iran exchanged strikes overnight, escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Sensex opened 472.96 points or 0.61 per cent lower at 76,471.32, while Nifty started the session declining nearly 200 points or 0.82 per cent at 23,858.

Sectorally, realty, IT and auto stocks bore the brunt of the selling pressure. Nifty Realty index fell almost 2 per cent, Nifty IT declined 1.82 per cent and Nifty Auto shed 1.78 per cent. Meanwhile, financial services, cement, media, FMCG and metal indices were also in red zone.

Analysts said domestic fundamentals remained supportive with robust economic activity and improving earnings prospects providing a cushion against global headwinds. However, the sharp rise in crude prices following the escalation in the US-Iran conflict has emerged as a key near-term risk.

India's relatively comfortable current account position and ample foreign exchange reserves should help absorb the impact of higher oil prices, they said.

They further noted that the more significant risk could come from rising US bond yields. A move in the US 10-year Treasury yield towards 5 per cent could trigger a sharper correction in global equities.

Technically, the market remains vulnerable after repeated attempts to reclaim the 24,060-24,000 zone. While a recent doji formation points to continued buying interest, a decisive break below the support band could open the way towards 23,800 initially, with 23,575 seen as the next downside objective.

On the upside, the 24,150-24,215 region remains a key hurdle; a sustained move above it could signal a return of strength.

Additionally, Asian shares also traded lower as a global bond market sell-off weighed on investor sentiment.

Moreover, crude oil rose on Tuesday sharply gaining more than $4 per barrel and reaching a five-week high as tensions between the United States and Iran heightened concerns about supply disruptions.

--IANS

ag/

New Delhi, Sep 2 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended birthday greetings to Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, saying that he is widely respected among the people and is at the forefront of giving momentum to the NDA government's good governance agenda in the state.

PM Modi took to the social media platform 'X' and said, "Birthday greetings to Shri Pawan Kalyan Garu. He is widely respected among the people and is at the forefront of adding momentum to the good governance agenda of the NDA in Andhra Pradesh. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life in service of society."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended birthday greetings and said, "Warm birthday wishes to Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh Shri Pawan Kalyan Garu. Your dedicated endeavours towards realising the NDA’s vision for the development of the state and welfare of the people are commendable. Praying for your good health for continued service to the citizens."

Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu also extended heartfelt birthday wishes.

"Friends, heartfelt birthday wishes to the president of the Jana Sena Party, Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Pawan Kalyan garu. I sincerely wish that Shri Pawan Kalyan, who remains eternally etched in the hearts of fans as the Power Star, lives a hundred years filled with health and vitality. Through numerous reforms in the Panchayati Raj department and development programs, he is bringing about significant changes. The actions he is taking - from road construction to promoting greenery to alleviate the hardships of tribal people - are yielding excellent results. They are ushering in transformation. I pray to the Lord of Lords that Pawan Kalyan garu, who tirelessly works to fulfill the promise the alliance made to the people regarding the state's reconstruction, celebrates many more such birthdays," the CM said.

Pawan Kalyan is an Indian actor, politician, and the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. He was born on September 2, 1971. He founded the Jana Sena Party (JSP) on March 14, 2014. He assumed office as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh following the 2024 state Assembly elections.

--IANS

jk/dpb

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

sj/rad

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

sps/svn

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

na/vd

Mumbai, September 2 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s Bigg Boss 20 is set to reach audiences in the UK, Canada and Singapore as JioHotstar expands its streaming service internationally.

The Hindi edition of the reality show, which marks the 20th season of the franchise, will premiere on September 6, with Salman returning as its host. The show will stream on JioHotstar alongside its television broadcast on Colors.

The international launch will also allow viewers in the three markets to participate in Bigg Boss through live voting across its six language editions.

Audiences in the UK and Canada will have access to the 24x7 live feed, while viewers in Canada will also be able to watch Bigg Boss Hindi seven days ahead of its television broadcast.

Apart from Bigg Boss, the international line-up includes shows such as Ali Baba Aur Chaalis Bhoot, Prince of Mollywood, Part Timers and The Court, along with movie premieres.

The platform will also carry content from JioStar television channels including Star Plus, Colors, Star Vijay, Asianet, Star Jalsha and Star Pravah. Shows such as Anupama, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Seher Hone Ko Hai and Azhagae Azhagu will be available, with early access in Canada and Singapore and simultaneous viewing with television broadcasts in the UK.

Another show joining the international line-up is India Ka Top 1 Percent, hosted by Anil Kapoor. The game show, which tests contestants' logic and reasoning, will be available in Canada and Singapore.

The international rollout marks JioHotstar's first expansion under the new brand into these three overseas markets from September 2.

–IANS

rd/

Mumbai, Sep 2 (IANS) As Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan turned 55 on Tuesday, his wife Anna Konidala penned a heartfelt note for her husband, saying that he is in so many hearts, thoughts and prayers.

Anna shared a picture of herself posing with her husband, Pawan, on Instagram. In the image, the couple can be seen sitting together by the windowsill, with Anna looking lovingly at her husband, who is seated right next to her.

“Celebrating you today. You are in so many hearts, thoughts and prayers - a beautiful reflection of how many lives you have touched and how much you have given to others. Happy Birthday!” she wrote as the caption.

Pawan Kalyan is the younger brother of actors Chiranjeevi and Nagendra Babu, and the uncle of actors Ram Charan, Allu Arjun, Varun Tej, Niharika Konidela, Sai Durgha Tej, and Panja Vaisshnav Tej.

Kalyan married Anna Lezhneva, a Russian citizen, in September 2013 under the Special Marriage Act at a Sub-Registrar Office in Hyderabad. The couple has a daughter and a son. Outside of his career, Kalyan holds a black belt in Karate and is an avid reader.

As an actor, Kalyan is known for his distinctive style and mannerisms in Telugu cinema. Kalyan made his acting debut in the 1996 film Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi.

Then, he had a streak of six consecutive hits, among which Tholi Prema, Thammudu, Badri, and Kushi became back-to-back blockbusters.

He made a comeback with Jalsa in 2008, the highest-grossing Telugu film of that year, and continued with hits like Gabbar Singh, Attarintiki Daredi, Gopala Gopala, and Bheemla Nayak.

He was last seen in Ustaad Bhagat Singh, an action comedy film directed by Harish Shanka.

The film stars Pawan Kalyan in the titular role, alongside Raashii Khanna, Sreeleela, R. Parthiban, K. S. Ravikumar, Ramki, Gautami, Nawab Shah, Rao Ramesh, Jayaprakash and others in supporting roles.

--IANS

dc/

Mumbai, Sep 2 (IANS) As she turned 30, actress Zendaya penned a note thanking everyone for making the last year of her twenties “so beautiful.”

Zendaya took to Instagram, where she shared a childhood image of herself. She went on to express her gratitude and shared that she’s looking forward to her thirties.

“I can’t thank ya’ll enough for making the last year of my twenties so beautiful, I have so much to be grateful for and so much to look forward to, with love as always….here’s to 30!!!!!,” Zendaya wrote as the caption.

Zendaya’s mother, Claire too shared a throwback picture of the actress from her childhood days.

She wrote: “happy 30th birthday to the love and light of my life!! even tho you’re not on socials anymore, and you won’t see this!! we just got off facetime!!”

Zendaya began her career as a child model and dancer before gaining prominence for her roles in sitcoms such as Shake It Up and K.C. Undercover.

For her performance as Rue Bennett, a struggling drug-addicted teenager in the teen drama series Euphoria, she won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, becoming the youngest performer to win in the category.

Zendaya made her feature film debut as Michelle Jones-Watson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Spider-Man: Homecoming.

She reprised her role in its sequels Far From Home, No Way Home, and Brand New Day. The actress has since starred in the musical film The Greatest Showman, Denis Villeneuve's Dune trilogy, and Christopher Nolan's epic The Odyssey, Malcolm & Marie, Challengers and The Drama.

Zendaya in 2011 released the singles "Swag It Out" and "Watch Me", the latter a collaboration with Bella Thorne.

She was last seen in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, a superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Spider-Man.

It is the 38th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the fourth film in the MCU Spider-Man film series following Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Destin Daniel Cretton directed the film, and Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers wrote it; Tom Holland stars as Peter Parker / Spider-Man alongside Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Florence Pugh, Tramell Tillman, Marisa Tomei, and Mark Ruffalo.

In the film, Parker works alone and is dedicated to protecting New York City as Spider-Man. His personal struggles and overworking cause his superpowers to evolve while he faces a new telepathic threat.

--IANS

dc/

Mumbai, September 2 (IANS) Actress and television personality Sunita Ahuja has opened up about the much-discussed equation between actors Shivangi Joshi and Harshad Chopda during their stint on Lock Upp 2.

In a video put up by Balaji Telefilms, the former Lock Upp Season 2 contestant is seen saying that a bond naturally develops between co-stars who spend considerable time working together.

She went on to draw a comparison with Bollywood actors, saying male stars often spend more time with their female co-stars than their wives, which can also lead to a bond.

“Ab dekho jaise humare heroes hain, humse zyada toh heroine log ke saath rahe the toh unki bonding ho jaati hai,” she said.

(Look, our heroes spend more time with their heroines than they do with us, so a bond develops between them)

Responding to allegations that Shivangi was “using” Harshad, Sunita said she did not see anything wrong with the two actors developing a close friendship.

“Main sochti hoon ki inhone saath mein kaam kiya hai, toh inki bonding toh ho jaati hai,” Sunita said.

(I think they have worked together, so naturally a bond develops between them)

Sunita also recalled how Shivangi's mother would take care of her food and other needs while she was shooting. She said such gestures are a natural part of human relationships and there was nothing wrong with it.

“But chalo, woh uska dekhbhal kar raha tha, kyunki woh usne mujhe bataya ye baat, ki jab woh shoot kar rahe the uske ghar se uski mummy uske liye ghar ka khaana, ye woh, sab dhyan rakhti. But all natural ho jaata hai insaan ka, toh usme kya kharab hai?” she said.

(He was taking care of her, because she had told me that while they were shooting, her mother would send home-cooked food for her and take care of such things. But these things happen naturally between people, so what is wrong with that?)

Sunita further said that actors performing romantic scenes can inevitably develop a certain comfort with each other, but that should not automatically be interpreted as an affair.

“See, if you're doing romantic scenes, kahin na kahin ek ho jaata hai na, but aap dhyan rakhna iska, ye nahi ki aap bolo ki iska affair hai. Chalo, woh uska personal life hai, main usme kyun bolu?” she said.

(If you're doing romantic scenes, somewhere a bond does develop, but you have to be mindful of that. You cannot simply say that they are having an affair. That's their personal life, so why should I comment on it?)

Sunita added that she had always viewed both Harshad and Shivangi positively and never looked at their relationship from a romantic angle.

“Dekho, mere saath toh dono hi achhe the na, main us nazar se maine dekha hi nahi,” she said.

(Both of them were good to me, so I never looked at them from that perspective)

Talking about Harshad and Shivangi's equation, it became a talking point during Lock Upp 2, with their emotional moments and close friendship leading to speculation among viewers. The two though consistently maintained that they are good friends.

Sunita's comments come amid renewed public interest in her own relationship with husband and actor Govinda. The couple's marriage has been facing umpteen number of issues with both the partners, indulging in mud slinging.

–IANS

rd/