Lucknow, April 13 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday welcomed the increased participation of women in sports, hoping that the MP Khel Mahakumbh organised here will further strengthen the sporting culture in Lucknow and across Uttar Pradesh.

Addressing the sportspersons, Rajnath Singh said, “Lucknow has always been known for its rich sporting culture. It is with the very objective of further developing this sporting culture here that the MP Khel Mahakumbh has been initiated.”

“My effort is to further expand the sporting facilities in Lucknow city,” he said.

The Defence Minister said today that modern sports infrastructure is also being developed near villages. Even in the far-flung areas of the country, better grounds, modern stadiums, and modern training facilities are now being built.

“In UP as well, thousands of crores of rupees are being spent on sports projects,” he said.

He said it is encouraging to see the increased participation of daughters in sports through the 'Khelo India' programme. The 'Khelo India Women's League is being held in many cities of the country, and the participation of women in these is quite high.”

In a message on X, the Defence Minister and Lucknow MP said, “Participated in the closing ceremony of the ‘MP Khel Mahakumbh’ organized in Lucknow. Inspired by Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi, this MP Khel Mahakumbh was held for the second consecutive year, in which thousands of youth participated in various events.”

Under the Khelo India campaign, our government has already spent nearly Rs five thousand crore on sports infrastructure, he said, adding, “Due to the increasing sports infrastructure, it has now become easier for more players to connect with sports.”

He said over the past decade, a new era of sports has begun in India. This era is not limited merely to establishing India as a major sporting power but also marks a new phase of societal empowerment through sports, he said.

“Sports are being taught as a subject in our National Education Policy. The establishment of the country's first National Sports University will provide further assistance in this regard,” he said on X.

“Khelo India has also restored the prestige of India's traditional sports. The government is also providing scholarships to promote various disciplines such as Gatka, Mallakhamb, Thang-Ta, Kalaripayattu, and Yogasan,” he said.

--IANS

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Kolkata, April 13 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday, during an election rally, said that those who have looted the people of West Bengal in the last 15 years would be punished once the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) comes to power after the Assembly polls in the state.

“Those who have looted people through their ‘cut-money syndicates’ during the last 15 years will be spotted one by one and hanged upside down after the elections. Those who have murdered the BJP supporters or tortured them will also be hunted out, even if they go underground. After the BJP comes to power, the gang of goons of the ‘aunt’ and her ‘nephew’ will be taken to task,” the Union Home Minister said at a rally in Khayrasole in Birbhum district in the afternoon.

Speaking on the occasion, he also said that the Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee’s dream to make her nephew and the Trinamool Congress General Secretary, Abhishek Banerjee, the next Chief Minister of West Bengal will never be fulfilled.

“I want to tell the Chief Minister that your nephew will not become the Chief Minister of West Bengal. Anyone from the BJP will become the next chief minister of the state. That person was born in West Bengal. That person speaks and writes in Bengali,” the Union Home Minister said.

He also accused the Trinamool Congress and the Chief Minister of giving shelter to the illegal infiltrators. “The Chief Minister had protected the illegal infiltrators for so long. So after coming to power, our prime task will be to identify the illegal infiltrators and deport them from the country. It is the mission of the BJP to free the country of illegal infiltrators,” the Union Home Minister said.

HM Shah will address another rally at Raniganj in West Burdwan district later in the day, to be followed by a roadshow and one organisational meeting in the steel city of Durgapur in the same district.

--IANS

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Ranchi, April 13 (IANS) Expressing strong displeasure over the continued vacancy of key constitutional posts in Jharkhand, including the Lokayukta and the Information Commissioner, the High Court on Monday issued a final 10-day ultimatum to the government.

Hearing a PIL, the court made it clear that if notifications for these appointments are not issued within the stipulated period, the state government will have to face consequences.

Adopting a stern stance, a bench led by Chief Justice M.S. Sonak observed that the delay in filling these crucial posts is no longer acceptable.

Terming it a final opportunity, the court directed the government to complete the appointment process within 10 days, without fail. The matter is now scheduled for further hearing on April 23.

During the proceedings, Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan informed the court that a selection committee meeting held on March 25 had recommended names, and the file was sent to the Raj Bhavan. However, it was later withdrawn.

Counsel for the petitioner, Abhay Mishra, alleged that the government had deliberately forwarded three politically affiliated names -- out of a panel of five -- for the post of Information Commissioner, which the Governor objected and he returned the file.

Responding to the concerns, the Advocate General assured the bench that the recommendations would be revised and would be resubmitted to the Raj Bhavan shortly.

Notably, several key constitutional and statutory posts in Jharkhand -- including the Lokayukta, the State Human Rights Commission, and the State Information Commission -- have remained vacant for a prolonged period.

The issue dates back to 2020, when the first PIL seeking the appointment of Information Commissioners was filed. Despite multiple hearings over the years, the vacancies remain unfilled.

The High Court had also made sharp observations during the previous hearing on April 1, when the Advocate General had stated that the selection process, chaired by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, was in its final stages.

Petitioners, including Rajkumar and the Advocates’ Association, have consistently argued that prolonged vacancies in these posts are severely undermining governance and weakening the state’s administrative and quasi-judicial framework.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami unveiled the promo and poster of the upcoming film ‘Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj’ at the Chief Minister’s residence on Monday.

The film is based on the divine life of Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj. Pushkar Singh Dhami shared that this film is not merely a cinematic presentation, but an effort to convey the higher ideals of faith, devotion, and humanity to every section of society. He said that the divine life of Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj continues to inspire millions even today.

Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj was a revered Hindu saint and mystic, he was known for his teachings on devotion, service, and simplicity. He was born in the early 20th century, and gained widespread recognition for his spiritual presence and the many ashrams established in his name, including Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand. His followers included notable figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, who visited India seeking spiritual guidance. His teachings promote simplicity, compassion, service, and devotion, values that are extremely relevant in the present times.

The CM added that such initiatives based on spiritual and cultural themes play a significant role in preserving and promoting Indian culture and Sanatan values.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that the film will spread positive energy in society and help connect the younger generation with their cultural and spiritual roots. He extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the artists, the director, and the production team associated with the film for this commendable and spiritual effort. On this occasion, Yoga guru Swami Ramdev and Swami Chidanand Saraswati, film director Sharad Singh Thakur, and other artistes were also present.

His legacy emphasizes love, humility, selfless service, and continues to inspire millions across the world.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 13 (IANS) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, and accused him of creating a false narrative on the Centre’s advisory to states to encourage farmers to grow more pulses and oilseeds as these are in short supply in the country and huge amounts have to be imported to meet the domestic requirement.

The Finance Minister pointed out that the communication to the States is an invitation to share the responsibility of national food security. Most of the State governments across party lines understood this and responded in the spirit of cooperative federalism. Only CM Stalin chose to sensationalise it, she said.

“Instead of wasting time on anti-Centre rhetoric, CM Stalin should explain to the people of Tamil Nadu why he is effectively giving away opportunities to foreign interests rather than making us self-reliant in pulses and oilseeds,” Sitharaman said.

"When essential food items depend on imports, domestic food security becomes vulnerable to external shocks and price fluctuations. That is not sustainable for a country of India’s size. Expanding domestic production of pulses and oilseeds is not only an economic necessity, but also a strategic need," she explained.

In response to Stalin’s challenge the Finance Minister put out the letter sent to the states in public domain. The letter points out that since there are excess stocks of paddy and rice in the country, states should encourage farmers to grow oilseeds and pulses which are in short supply. This would also help farmers to earn higher incomes, the letter points out.

True food sovereignty is only possible when the Centre and States work together to replace water-intensive surpluses with the essential crops India actually needs, she remarked.

Sitharaman said that building food security requires a constructive, continuous and positive engagement on agriculture with all stakeholders. However, Chief Minister MK Stalin appears to continue with what he and his party are good at — draw a wedge between the Centre and states, create false narratives and project themselves as the protectors of farmers and other Tamil people, she claimed.

“Doesn’t he know that huge imports of palm oil is because our demand for edible oil is not adequately met with oil seeds supply. Similar is the issue with pulses. Farmers can get better prices for crops in which there is a supply-demand gap. Clearly, farmers’ interest is not in CM Stalin’s mind,” the Finance Minister said.

By encouraging the production of pulses, oilseeds, and millets, India aims to achieves the twin objectives of ‘nutritional security’ through improved access to protein-rich crops and ‘economic stability’ by reducing the edible oil import bill, Sitharaman explained.

“It is surprising that CM Thiru Stalin has thrown a challenge on putting out the letter written by Secretary, Expenditure to all states. He has received it. He has chosen to misinterpret it. He would have himself put it up, if it strengthens his case. But no, he didn’t. By throwing up a challenge he has exhibited false bravado. We have no hesitation in giving the link to the letter,” Sitharaman said.

"Any Chief Minister with even a passing commitment to national interest would welcome this. Instead, CM Thiru Stalin chose to distort a constructive suggestion into a manufactured grievance — because for the DMK, India's strategic requirements are not a concern, they are an opportunity to score political points," Sitharaman added.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) Actress Rupali Ganguly, who is dubbed the queen of television, has paid an emotional tribute to the late singing legend Asha Bhosle.

On Monday, the actress took to her Instagram, and shared a throwback video of her meeting the late singer. In the video, she touched the feet of the late legend, as the two spoke at length. The actress used the song ‘Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar’ for her video.

She also penned a long note in the caption, as she wrote, “A part of my childhood feels lost today. Moments with her will be remembered …cherished….missed … Her kind words were the blessings I will carry in my heart forever Asha Tai, your absence hurts deeply…. Legends live on forever. Asha bhosle (sic)”.

One of the most influential singers of her time, Asha Bhosle passed away on Sunday at the age of 92. The singer was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital on Saturday. Doctor Prateet Samdani shared that the singer was suffering from several medical complications and passed away due to multiple organ failure.

Ashish Shelar, the Culture Minister of Maharashtra made the announcement outside the hospital. Her last rites will be held at Shivaji Park on Monday at 4:00 pm.

Her son Anand Bhosle had earlier shared that the last respects will be held at her residence in Lower Parel on Monday. Speaking to the media, he earlier said, “My mother passed away today. People can pay their last respects to her at 11:00 am tomorrow at Casa Grande, Lower Parel, where she lived. Her last rites will be performed at 4 pm tomorrow at Shivaji Park”.

Asha Bhosle received numerous awards throughout her career for many of her noteworthy songs. The singer was given the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award back in 2000, followed by a Padma Vibhushan in 2008.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 13 (IANS) India’s top cement companies are expected to record healthy volume growth in the Q4 FY26, driven by stronger construction activity and government capital spending, analysts said on Monday.

Motilal Oswal Financial Services forecasted about 10 per cent year‑on‑year growth in revenue and around 4 per cent growth in EBITDA for their cement coverage universe, according to multiple reports.

Even amidst volume growth, profitability is likely to remain under pressure over rising fuel and packaging costs due to West Asian conflict, as MOFSL estimated profit after tax likely to slip around 1 per cent in Q4 FY26.

The brokerage estimated EBITDA per tonne fell about 6 per cent YoY to around Rs 950, even as it rose about 15 per cent quarter‑on‑quarter on operating leverage. Average EBITDA margins (excluding Grasim) are expected to ease about 1.2 percentage points year‑on‑year to about 18 per cent.

Analyst at Mirae Asset Sharekhan said that pan-Indian prices rose around Rs 7-10 per bag in January, Rs 2-3 per bag in February, and Rs 4-5 per bag in March, translating to an expected 1-3 per cent Y-o-Y growth in realisation during the quarter.

Experts forecasted only a moderate impact of higher petcoke and coal prices on quarterly earnings, as firms continued to draw from lower-cost inventories. Nevertheless, power and fuel costs account for around 30 per cent of production costs, making them a key monitorable if prices continue to remain higher, they said.

Imported petcoke and coal prices rose about 15–20 per cent month-on-month (M-o-M) in March on average.

Companies typically maintain around 45 days of fuel inventory, limiting the immediate impact of rising energy costs on Q4 profitability and the full impact will only be felt from Q1 FY27 onwards, they added.

A recent report had said that capital‑intensive sectors such as cement and metals should gain from government's infrastructure spending. Total cement demand is expected to rise about 6–7 per cent and steel demand roughly by 8 per cent, it noted.

—IANS

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New Delhi, April 13 (IANS) Former India opener Aakash Chopra has highlighted the shift in batting approach of modern-day greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the IPL, noting a rise in their strike rates over the last two seasons, and stating that seeing them bat at a powerful strike rate ‘feels like they’re driving a Ferrari.’

Kohli and Rohit, traditionally seen as key players in T20 cricket, have adjusted their playing styles to meet the format's evolving pressures, adopting a more aggressive approach since 2024. At the ongoing IPL 2026, both players have been performing exceptionally well for their teams.

“Look at the way both have switched gears. From 2020 to 2023, Kohli and Rohit’s strike rates were 126 and 127 in the IPL, a bit slow and sedate, but look at how both have transformed since 2024; they are striking at 152. It almost feels like they are driving a Ferrari now,” Chopra told JioStar.

Meanwhile, former India captain Anil Kumble offered a technical breakdown of why emerging spinner Digvesh Rathi has been difficult for batters to read, particularly due to the subtle variations in his wrist and finger positions.

“There isn’t much difference between a leg-spin delivery that goes away from the batter and the googly in the way that he bowls, so it’s not easy to read. His grip on the ball remains almost the same, with his thumb on the side, the index finger on top of the seam, and the folded middle finger. He just positions his index finger a little differently on his inward-turning ball, which is the googly, but that too isn’t easy to pick. His speeds are also very good, so if you don’t pick the length correctly, there’s a high chance of getting out,” he noted.

The legendary leg-spinner also shared advice for young bowlers aiming to develop spin skills, emphasising the importance of practice and building finger strength from an early stage.

“You can definitely start practising spinning the ball with a rubber ball or a tennis ball, because you’ll need to squeeze the ball a bit to bowl the carrom ball. So, if you start from there, first focus on getting the turn, and later work on control by simply bowling as much as you can. After that, when you move to a cricket ball, you might be able to execute this skill properly, because the key is learning how to hold the ball tightly and making your fingers strong enough to spin it and then just try and perfect it,” he said.

--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 13 (IANS) Veteran actress Mumtaz decided to pay tribute to the late legendary singer Asha Bhosle by reliving a fond memory of grooving on 'Koi Sehri Babu' with her in a throwback video.

Taking to her official Instagram handle, Mumtaz uploaded an old video of her tapping a foot on the 'Koi Sehri Babu' track from the 1973 drama movie, "Loafer", co-starring Dharmendra. In the clip, we could also see Asha Ji trying to match the steps to their beloved track.

Expressing her grief over the loss of the legendary actress, Mumtaz penned on the photo-sharing app, "#mumtaz. Today, I feel a deep sense of loss. Asha Bhosle ji was not just a legendary voice, she was the soul behind so many of my most cherished on-screen moments. Her songs gave life, charm, and emotion to my performances in a way that words can never fully express. (sic)"

Mumtaz revealed that working with Asha Bhosle felt nothing short of a blessing.

"Working with her voice was truly a blessing. She had a magic that made every song unforgettable. I will always remain grateful for the melodies she gifted me and the industry. Her voice will live on forever in our hearts. May her soul rest in peace," she went on to write.

Asha Bhosle was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Saturday, and unfortunately, she passed away on Sunday at the age of 92.

In the eight decades she had been active in the industry, she had gone on to sing in multiple Indian as well as foreign languages.

Asha Bhosle received several awards for her music, including the two National Film Awards for 'Dil Cheez Kya Hai' from 'Umrao Jaan' and 'Mera Kuch Saamaan' from 'Ijaazat'.

In addition to this, she was also honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2000 and Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour in 2008.

Asha Bhosle is known to have crooned almost 12,000 songs in around 20 languages.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) Actress Lisa Ray has opened up on how it is difficult it is to be a working mother, further reflecting on how she wants her daughters to that ‘their mother still has dreams.’

Taking to her social media account, Lisa penned a heartfelt note revealing how she kissed her daughters while they were asleep just before she head off for a professional commitment.

She wrote, “It’s never easy being a working mom. I kissed my girls while they were still asleep and slipped out for an early morning flight. No goodbyes. No last hug. Just the quiet ache you carry through airport security.”

She added, “Then I opened my bag and found their note. And everything stopped..

This. This is why I do it. I miss them in a way that sits in my bones. But I also want them to see something important: that their mother still has dreams. That ambition doesn’t expire when you become a parent. That love and purpose can live in the same body.”

She added, “They are my whole world. Every long day, every early call time, every flight before sunrise — it’s all threaded back to them.”

The actress further wrote, “One day I hope they understand that I wasn’t choosing work over them. I was choosing a life where they could see what’s possible. And I carry them with me. Always.”

Talking about Lisa Ray, the actress, on the professional front, has had a diverse acting career across Indian and international cinema.

She gained fame with films such as Kasoor and also in critically acclaimed projects including Water, directed by Deepa Mehta.

On the personal front, Lisa inspired many by putting a brave front against her battle with multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer, in 2009.

She had undergone treatment and later announced that she was cancer-free.

–IANS

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Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) Actor Vijay Varma, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming crime drama and thriller series ‘Matka King’, has spoken up on the nuances of his gambling lord, and how he put together the character.

In the series, Vijay essays the role of a fictional gambling lord, who operates a string of matkas (gambling pots) across Mumbai. To fine tune his character, Vijay got in touch with a magician, who taught him the card tricks.

The actor spoke with IANS during the promotions of the show, and shared how he honed his skills with the card, and spent 10 months with the deck of cards.

He told IANS, “I got familiar with the cards in the sense, I learnt how to hold them, shuffle them. I also learnt some tricks. There is a magician called Ashwam. The production guys used to send him to my house. So, I did 12 or 15 sessions with him. Over the span of one month. He used to teach me how to do it with cards, what tricks to learn, how to shuffle it, how to show it. I wanted to show that my character has a second skin, the cards. So, it was a lot of fun to achieve that”.

However, the actor soon realised that cards take away a lot of attention given the tricks and the game, and he was met with the challenge of delivering his lines while being fully immersed in the game.

He said, “When you engage with cards, it takes so much of your energy or attention that you won't be able to do the scene. Like a new musician can't sing while playing the harmonium. Either he will play or sing. I wanted to talk while playing the game”.

“The cards were in my hand for 10 months while I was shooting for the series. So, this was the preparation. My director, Nagraj sir and I used to see it daily to see how we can evolve the game. It was very important to establish a trustworthy, honest character in the first episode. So, we tried to make people relate to this character and get them involved in its journey”, he added.

Directed by Nagraj Manjule, ‘Matka King’ is set to stream on Prime Video from April 17, 2026.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Sunny Deol has heaped praise on tennis superstars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz and said that the game wasn’t just about the trophy, as it was about the game, respect, and the spirit they brought with them to the court.

Sunny took to his Instagram stories section, where he shared a picture of Sinner holding the trophy and Alcaraz standing next to him.

“Two warriors, one court. At the Monte Carlo Masters, it wasn't just about the trophy, it was about the game, the respect, and the spirit they brought with them. Moments like these are why we love sports,” he wrote as the caption.

On April 12, Sinner delivered a composed performance to defeat Alcaraz 7-6 (7-5), 6-3 in the final of the Monte Carlo Masters to return to the World No. 1 ranking for the first time since November 2025.

Sinner joined Djokovic (2015) as the only men who have claimed the first three ATP Masters 1000 titles of the season.

This victory also extended his impressive winning streak in Masters events to 22 matches.

In other news, Sunny on April 10, shared an update about "Jaat 2" as the installment turned one.

"One year of Jaat’s release … and what a ride it was! Still reminiscing about the madness, the action, and the sheer fun we had while shooting this film. Every day on set was filled with energy, passion, and that unmistakable Jaat spirit. Truly one of the most enjoyable journeys (sic)", Sunny wrote on Instagram.

Lauding his director, Gopichand Malineni, and his co-stars Randeep Hooda and Vineet Kumar Singh,he added, "A big shoutout to @dongopichand for his vision and for bringing this world alive so powerfully. And @randeephooda and @vineet_ksofficial wishing you both nothing but the best always. It was a pleasure sharing the screen with you."

"And… maybe it’s time to gear up again...Some good news about Jaat 2 coming soon! #1YearOfJaat #Jaat," he concluded.

"Jaat" shares the tale of a mysterious passenger whose obsessive demand for an apology puts him at loggerheads with a ruthless labourer-turned-crime boss.

--IANS

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