Puri, April 7 (IANS) Marking World Health Day, renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik on Tuesday created a striking sand sculpture at Puri Beach in Odisha, saluting frontline workers and spreading the message, “Together for Health, Stand with Science”.

The elaborate sculpture, standing approximately six feet tall, was crafted using several tonnes of sand and showcased Pattnaik’s signature style of blending art with social messaging. Assisted by students from his sand art institute, the installation depicted human figures symbolising unity, compassion, and the crucial role of science in safeguarding global health.

Observed annually on April 7, World Health Day aims to draw attention to pressing global health issues and inspire collective action toward improving public well-being. Pattnaik’s artwork served as a visual reminder of the importance of solidarity, scientific awareness, and shared responsibility in building a healthier and safer world.

Speaking on the occasion, Pattnaik emphasised the need to support science and strengthen healthcare systems in an ever-evolving global landscape. He urged people to adopt healthier lifestyles and contribute to the well-being of society. Through his sand art, he paid tribute to healthcare workers and others who serve tirelessly day and night for the betterment of humanity.

A globally acclaimed artist, Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand sculpture championships and festivals, earning numerous accolades. He is widely recognised for using his art as a medium to raise awareness on critical social and environmental issues, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, global warming, terrorism, plastic pollution, and environmental conservation.

The theme for World Health Day 2026, “Together for Health, Stand with Science”, has been launched by the World Health Organisation as part of a year-long campaign celebrating the power of scientific collaboration. The initiative highlights key objectives such as the “One Health” approach, which recognises the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment, combating misinformation, and promoting scientific multilateralism through global cooperation.

World Health Day commemorates the establishment of the World Health Organisation in 1948. The WHO Constitution was signed in 1946 by 61 nations and came into force on April 7, 1948. Although the first observance took place in 1949, it was officially shifted to April 7 from 1950 onwards to align with the organisation’s founding anniversary.

--IANS

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Banaskantha, April 7 (IANS) The globally revered Shaktipeeth of Ambaji temple in Gujarat's Banaskantha district is all set to evolve beyond a religious pilgrimage centre into a vibrant tourism hub, as authorities move forward with an ambitious infrastructure push.

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of developing Ambaji into a ‘Two-Day Destination,’ the Gujarat Pilgrimage Development Board has initiated the Rs 53.94 crore Rinchhadiya Mahadev Lake Development Project.

The project, inspired by the scenic charm of Nakki Lake in Mount Abu, aims to offer visitors a unique blend of spirituality and leisure. Once completed, devotees visiting Ambaji will be able to enjoy boating, serene lake views, and a rejuvenating natural environment, encouraging them to extend their stay.

Situated approximately 3 km from Ambaji, the historic Rinchhadiya Mahadev Temple complex, nestled amid picturesque hills, is undergoing a comprehensive transformation. The development includes the creation of a large artificial lake, modern boating facilities, and well-designed walking tracks, turning the site into a major tourist attraction.

Key highlights of the project include aesthetically planned landscaping, musical fountains, and an amphitheatre to host cultural events. Additionally, two new bridges, an arrival plaza, a dedicated food zone, information kiosks, and a visitor centre are being constructed to enhance the overall tourist experience.

Officials stated that the broader vision is to make Ambaji a destination where pilgrims spend at least two days, combining religious devotion with recreational activities. Parallel renovation works are also underway at key sites such as the Shakti Corridor and Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, further strengthening the region’s tourism infrastructure.

Set against a backdrop of lush hills and natural beauty, the project is expected to significantly boost tourist footfall. Moreover, it is likely to generate substantial employment opportunities for local communities, thereby giving a strong impetus to the rural economy in the region.

Ambaji Temple, located in Banaskantha, Gujarat, is one of the 51 ancient Shakti Peethas, believed to be where the Goddess Sati's heart fell. It is a prime pilgrimage site, specifically on Gabbar Hill, known for not having a traditional idol but a holy Vishwa Yantra representing the Goddess.

--IANS

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Ujjain, April 7 (IANS) A massive gathering of devotees assembled at the globally revered Jyotirlinga shrine, the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain on Tuesday on the occasion of Vaishakh Krishna Paksha Panchami.

In the early hours of the morning, the traditional Bhasma Aarti was performed with full ritualistic grandeur. The ceremony began with a sacred Jalabhishek of Lord Mahakal, followed by a special adornment carried out strictly in accordance with scriptural traditions.

The Bhasma Aarti evoked intense devotion among the devotees as they witnessed the divine and captivating form of the deity. The temple echoed with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Mahakal.”

As per established custom, the doors of the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple were opened during Brahma Muhurat, the sacred pre-dawn period considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition.

The Bhasma Aarti, one of the most distinctive rituals associated with the temple, is conducted by the Mahanirvani Akhada.

During the ritual, Lord Mahakal is believed to grant devotees Darshan in His physical and manifest form, symbolising a transition from His formless, unmanifest state.

After the conclusion of the Bhasma Aarti, the deity was again offered Jalabhishek and worshipped with Panchamrit, a sacred mixture of five elements.

The Bhasma Aarti carries profound religious importance and is distinguished by the use of sacred ash prepared from the burnt wood of trees such as Gohari, Peepal, Palash, Shami, and Bel.

In keeping with longstanding tradition, women are not permitted to witness the Bhasma Aarti directly. Instead, they participate in the Darshan while observing the custom of covering their heads with an odhni or veil, a practice that continues to be strictly followed within the temple premises.

--IANS

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Jaipur, April 7 (IANS) Under the influence of an active Western Disturbance, several parts of Rajasthan are witnessing strong winds, rainfall, and hailstorm activity. The Jaipur Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert in parts of the state, warning of intense weather conditions in multiple districts, including the state capital, Jaipur.

The Meteorological Centre has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder, lightning, and strong winds gusting at 40-50 km/hour in districts including Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Phalodi, Jodhpur, Dausa, Bikaner, Nagaur, Pali, and Sri Ganganagar, along with nearby areas. Isolated hailstorms are also likely during this period.

A yellow alert has been issued for Hanumangarh, Barmer, Churu, Tonk, Bhilwara, Jhunjhunu, Ajmer, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli, Dholpur, Sikar, Bundi, Kota, and Sawai Madhopur. These regions may experience light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds (20-30 km/h), and isolated hailstorms.

Unseasonal rain and strong winds have caused significant damage to crops in Jaisalmer district, particularly in areas such as Mohangarh, Lathi, and Ramdevra. Crops like cumin (jeera) and isabgol have been adversely affected, leaving farmers worried.

Rainfall activity has persisted since Monday night in parts of Nagaur district, with hailstorms reported in Degana in the morning. Drizzle has also been recorded in Didwana. In view of the adverse weather, mandis in Nagaur and Merta have been closed for the day.

Jaipur and surrounding regions are experiencing cool winds and light rain since early morning, with temperatures dropping across districts like Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Sri Ganganagar.

The Meteorological Centre has indicated that 20-50 mm of rainfall may occur in several areas.

According to Meteorological Centre Director Radheshyam Sharma, the impact of the current weather system is expected to continue until Wednesday, with conditions likely to improve from April 9 onwards.

Jaipur has witnessed intermittent rainfall since morning, with temperatures dropping by 1-2 degrees Celsius. In Bikaner, thunder and cool winds began around 3.00 a.m., followed by rain at 4.00 a.m. and heavy showers by 7.30 a.m.

Border districts, including Sri Ganganagar, also experienced changing weather conditions since morning, with intermittent rain, strong winds, and lightning reported in several areas, bringing a noticeable chill to the air.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, April 7 (IANS) Cardi B’s ex-husband and rapper Offset, popularly known for being a member of the hip-hop group Migos, was shot in Florida, as per reports.

The rapper is “fine” and is “currently at the hospital receiving medical care,” per TMZ, reports deadline.com.

The three-time Grammy-nominated artist was struck near the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and details regarding the incident are scant, though his representative shared he is “stable and being closely monitored.”

Seminole County Police told the outlet in a statement: “We are aware of an incident that occurred at a valet area after 7 p.m. Monday outside of Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood that resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to an individual who was transported to Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood.”

According to the spokesperson, officials were on site immediately, and the situation was quickly contained. Two people have since been detained by authorities, with an investigation pending.

“The site is secure and there is no threat to the public. Operations continue as normal,” authorities concluded, reports deadline.com.

Nee Kiari Cephus, Offset provided the soundtrack to the defining era of mumble rap in the 2010s as a member of the Atlanta-hailing Migos, alongside groupmates Quavo and Takeoff.

The trio, founded in 2008, rose to prominence with tracks like “Bad and Boujee” and “Walk It Talk It,” as well as collaborations with artists Drake, Lil Uzi Vert, Nicki Minaj and Cardi B.

In 2017, Offset also collaborated with 21 Savage and Metro Boomin on the album Without Warning, the lead single of which, “Ric Flair Drip,” became Offset’s highest-charting song. Migos disbanded a year after the fatal shooting of Takeoff at the age of 28 in Houston, Texas in 2022.

As a solo musician, Offset has collaborated with Travis Scott, JID, Don Toliver, Gunna and others.

Since then, Offset has continued to release music, dropping the surprise mixtape Haunted by Fame in 2025. The 11-track project features appearances by YoungBoy Never Broke Again and NoCap.

--IANSdc/

Mumbai, April 7 (IANS) Veteran actor Jackie Shroff extended warm birthday wishes to the evergreen bollywood superstar Jeetendra on his birthday on April 7.

The actor took to his social media account to wish the legendary actor on his 84th birthday.

Jackie celebrated Jeetendra's birthday with a post featuring a split visual.

On one side Jackie shade a recent video clip where he was seen bumping into Jeetendra at an event. Jackie was seen greeting him with a lot of affection and respect.

On the other part Jackie shared a classic photo of Jeetendra from his younger days in Bollywood.

As the background score for his post Jackie used the legendary actor's iconic track, “Mast Baharon Ka Main Aashiq” from the film Farz.

For the uninitiated, Jeetendra was fondly known as Bollywood “Jumping Jack”

Jeetendra ruled the silver screen in the ’70s and ’80s era of Bollywood with hits like Himmatwala, Tohfa, Caravan and many more.

On the personal front, the legendary actor is also known as the father of producer and TV czarina Ekta Kapoor and actor Tusshar Kapoor.

Neither of his children, Ekta or Tusshar, chose to marry, but both are proud parents to two sons respectively, whom they welcomed through surrogacy.

Talking about Jackie Shroff, the star made his debut in Bollywood with the movie Hero.

The movie was directed by ace filmmaker Subhash Ghai and also starred actress Meenakshi Seshadri as the lead.

Jackie, then went onto star in many hit movies like King Uncle, Ram Lakhan, Prem Deewane, Bhagam Bhag and many more.

He is the proud father of actor Tiger Shroff.

–IANS

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Seoul, April 7 (IANS) South Korea has secured an additional 60 million barrels of alternative oil supplies for May that will replace supplies from the Middle East that have been blocked due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the government said on Tuesday.

The country has secured a total of 110 million barrels of oil -- 50 million for April and 60 million for May -- so far from 17 countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil and Canada, Yang Ghi-wuk, deputy minister for trade, industry and resource security, said in a regular press briefing, reports Yonhap news agency.

The amount secured for this month and May each represents about 60 percent and 70 percent, respectively, of monthly oil supplies to South Korea when things run as usual, he added.

Regarding the oil swap system introduced last week, Yang said the country's major four refiners have submitted plans to borrow more than 30 million barrels under the program, with around 8 million barrels to be delivered this week.

Under the oil swap system, South Korean refiners can borrow crude oil from the national reserve and return the same volume once shipments of their crude supplies secured abroad arrive.

"Refiners have expressed interest in the oil swap system and are willing to utilise it," he said.

Touching on naphtha, a crucial raw material in petrochemical manufacturing, Yang said he expects imports for the raw material to reach 770,000 tons this month, which will be equivalent to some 70 percent of the amount imported during the same month last year.

Also, the aggregate naphtha supply is projected to reach around 80 to 90 percent of the amount needed for the month on a normal basis when adding around 1.1 million tons of the material produced within the country, Yang added.

"We plan to work with companies to make efforts in securing naphtha supplies once the supplementary budget passes and the extra budget is allocated," he said.

—IANS

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Mumbai, April 7 (IANS) Swanand Kirkire has lent his vocal prowess for a lullaby christened Angaai for an upcoming Marathi movie titled “Super Duperr”. Talking about the song, the National Award-winning musician and actor said there is an innocence and honesty to it.

Titled 'Angaai', the track is penned by Kunal Karan. The upcoming film is has Sameer Aasha Patil behind the camera and stars Lalit Prabhakar and Vidula Chaughule among many others.

Sharing his thoughts on the project, Kirkire lablled “Super Duperr” as “a film that will captivate the hearts of the audience in the cinema hall,” pointing at its emotional arc and storytelling.

Talking about lending his vocals for the lullaby, Kirkire said: “The song Angaai in the film Super Duperr is a very special to me. There is an innocence and honesty in its storytelling that immediately connected with me.”

He said that as an artist, he always looks for projects that move him and “this one truly did. Recording for it felt organic and deeply fulfilling.”

On the work front, it was on February 20, when it was announced that Kirkire will star alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari in filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s upcoming romantic family drama Yeh Prem Mol Liya.

He had even lauded Ayushmann tagging him as “grounded” and a “pleasure to work with.”

Heaping praise on the actress, he said Sharvari brought wonderful energy to the set.

Talking about being a part of the Rajshri film, he says it “carries its own legacy.”

“There’s a certain purity and belief in goodness that the banner represents, and to collaborate with a team that values emotional honesty over spectacle is incredibly refreshing. Sharing the screen with Ayushmann and Sharvari has also been a beautiful experience they both bring such individuality and sensitivity to their craft.”

Kirkire said working with Sooraj Barhatya feels like coming home to a certain kind of storytelling that shaped many of us as audiences.

--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 7 (IANS) Swanand Kirkire has lent his vocal prowess for a lullaby christened Angaai for an upcoming Marathi movie titled “Super Duperr”. Talking about the song, the National Award-winning musician and actor said there is an innocence and honesty to it.

Titled 'Angaai', the track is penned by Kunal Karan. The upcoming film is has Sameer Aasha Patil behind the camera and stars Lalit Prabhakar and Vidula Chaughule among many others.

Sharing his thoughts on the project, Kirkire lablled “Super Duperr” as “a film that will captivate the hearts of the audience in the cinema hall,” pointing at its emotional arc and storytelling.

Talking about lending his vocals for the lullaby, Kirkire said: “The song Angaai in the film Super Duperr is a very special to me. There is an innocence and honesty in its storytelling that immediately connected with me.”

He said that as an artist, he always looks for projects that move him and “this one truly did. Recording for it felt organic and deeply fulfilling.”

On the work front, it was on February 20, when it was announced that Kirkire will star alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari in filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s upcoming romantic family drama Yeh Prem Mol Liya.

He had even lauded Ayushmann tagging him as “grounded” and a “pleasure to work with.”

Heaping praise on the actress, he said Sharvari brought wonderful energy to the set.

Talking about being a part of the Rajshri film, he says it “carries its own legacy.”

“There’s a certain purity and belief in goodness that the banner represents, and to collaborate with a team that values emotional honesty over spectacle is incredibly refreshing. Sharing the screen with Ayushmann and Sharvari has also been a beautiful experience they both bring such individuality and sensitivity to their craft.”

Kirkire said working with Sooraj Barhatya feels like coming home to a certain kind of storytelling that shaped many of us as audiences.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 7 (IANS) Punjabi singing sensation Jasmine Sandlas, who is currently riding high on the success of her latest musical work for “Dhurandhar” duology, is both thrilled and overwhelmed as her expanding setlist makes it tough to curate a perfect setlist for her gigs.

Jasmine took to Instagram, where she shared two pictures of herself and spoke about how she cannot wait to sing songs such as Main Aur Tu and Jaiye Sanjna to name a few in her live shows.

She wrote: “My setlist just got so much bigger. It’s gonna so be hard to choose what songs to sing and which ones to leave out. I can’t wait to sing this song at my next show. Main aur Tu. Oye Oye. Vaari Jaavan. And of course ‘jaiye sajna’.”

From Main Aur Tu to Jaiye Sajna, the tracks from Aditya Dhar’s duology is currently going viral on social media. Talking about Jaiye Sajna, it is sung by Jasmine and Satinder Sartaaj. It is featured in “Dhurandhar-The Revenge” picturised on Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan and Sanjay Dutt in pivotal roles.

The first installment of the duology was titled “Dhurandhar” and hit the screens in 2025. It revolves around high-stakes in a covert counter-terrorism operation.

“Dhurandhar”, which also stars Akshaye Khanna, follows an undercover Indian intelligence agent who infiltrates Karachi's criminal syndicates and political power structures in Pakistan in an effort to dismantle a terror network targeting India.

Meanwhile, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which hit the screens in March, follows an undercover Indian intelligence agent who continues to infiltrate Karachi's criminal syndicates and Pakistani politics while avenging the 26/11 attacks and confronting bigger threats.

It is loosely inspired from myriad conflicts and events such as 2014 Indian general election, Operation Lyari, 2016 Indian banknote demonetisation and various other events.

--IANS

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Mumbai , April 7 (IANS) Actress-turned-author Suchitra Krishnamoorthy is going through a deeply difficult phase at her personal end, as her brother has passed away.

The actress took to her social media account to share the unfortunate news and also express her grief.

She wrote, “For

My Parents

Venkatanarasimha Krishnamoorthi

Dr Sulochana Krishnamoorthi

My Sister

Sujata Kumar

&

My Brother

Dr Sudhakar Krishnamurti

Forever in their guiding light…”

In the caption, she wrote, “Updated the dedication page today.

Never thought I’d have to do it this soon.”

Suchitra Krishnamoorthy has, in several interviews, always spoken fondly of her brother.

Reportedly, he lived in Hyderabad with his family and would frequently travel to Mumbai to support his sister.

Reports suggest that he was the only immediate family member from her close-knit family who was alive until now.

The actress, over the years, already faced immense personal loss.

Her sister and actress, Sujata Kumar, passed away in 2018 after battling cancer.

Sujata was known for her role in English Vinglish, where she played the elder sister of Sridevi’s character.

Suchitra also lost her mother a few years ago.

She had penned an emotional note on her social media account while bidding her mother a farewell.

She wrote, “My beloved mother Sulochana Krishnamoorthi left us last evening at 7.30 pm.

She leaves behind an ocean of memories and love

Amma lost her spirit and will to live soon after Nana passed away in March last year.”

“She would roam around the house calling out to Nana incessantly wondering where he is. Her mind never fully comprehended that he had moved on. She is united with him again at last…They are going to party in the heavens now. Amma Nana and my Suzie Puzie… beaming bolts of love to us left behind…”

She added, “Such beautiful condolences coming in from Ammas colleagues from KC college Mumbai where Amma headed the history department for almost 2 decades.”

“In an era where careers for women were not that common, Amma was a revolutionary. A warrior , the hardest working person i’ve known, a triple PHD in history. As famed for her academic achievements as for her cooking I feel proud to be her daughter.”

–IANS

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Mumbai, April 7 (IANS) Bollywood star couple Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor were spotted at the Mumbai airport on Monday night, along with their little baby girl Raha.

The couple along with their daughter seems to have flown out to celebrate their 4th wedding anniversary on April 15.

In the video, Alia looked stylish in her loose beige shirt paired with comfortable trousers and sneakers.

Ranbir seemed to opt for casual in a T-shirt and pants.

Before the security check, little Raha appeared quite sleepy and was seen being carried by Alia in her arms.

Post security check, Raha suddenly seemed to have woken up and turned active, and was seen running around at the airport.

Alia was seen following her around, trying to catch hold of her in a playful moment.

Talking about the superstars’ Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor’s love story, it began on the sets of their movie Brahmastra Part One: Shiva.

The movie that was directed by Ayan Mukerji, released in 2022.

The couple managed to keep their relationship away from the media spotlight for the longest time.

After dating for a few years, the couple tied the knot on April 14, 2022, in an intimate ceremony at their Mumbai home with just their close friends and family members in attendance.

A few months later in the same year in June, they announced their first pregnancy, and welcomed their daughter Raha on November 6, 2022.

Alia, in many of her interviews has always spoken about how amazing Ranbir Kapoor is as a husband and is an even better father.

By marrying Ranbir Kapoor, Alia has become a part of Bollywood's prestigious Kapoor family.

On the professional front, Ranbir Kapoor is all set to essay the role of Lord Ram in his upcoming movie Ramayana.

The movie stars Sai Pallavi, Ravie Dubey, Sunny Deol, Yash in important roles.

The movie is set to release in Diwali this year.

--IANS

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