Muscat, Aug 17 (IANS) More than 200 students from Indian schools in Muscat visited Indian Naval Ship (INS) Imphal, the indigenously built Indian warship at Sultan Qaboos Port in the Omani state capital, the Indian Embassy in Oman said.

"Young Minds, Maritime Bonds in the spirit of celebrations of the 80th Independence Day of India in the Sultanate of Oman. As part of ongoing celebrations of the 80th anniversary of India's Independence Day in Oman, more than 200 students from Indian schools in Muscat visited INS Imphal, the indigenously built Indian naval warship, at Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat," the Embassy said on Sunday on social media platform X.

"Besides the first-hand glimpse of life at sea, the students had the opportunity to understand India's naval capabilities and the Indian Navy's steadfast commitment to a secure, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean Region," it added.

Earlier on Sunday, the Indian Navy said that the country's maritime presence was reflected with Indian naval ships at various ports overseas, including Muscat, Ponta Delgada, and Djibouti, on India's Independence Day.

"Flying the Tricolour, the Indian Navy carried the spirit of India across the seas. Indian Naval Ships marked the 80th Independence Day at ports overseas, including Djibouti, Muscat and Ponta Delgada. The National flag stood tall, reflecting India's maritime presence, pride and enduring bonds of friendship," the Navy said on X.

INS Imphal, a Visakhapatnam-class destroyer, flew the Tricolour in Oman during the port call at Muscat.

"80 Years of Freedom. A Legacy That Sails On. As India marks 80 Years of Freedom, the Tricolour flew proudly onboard INS Imphal during her port call at Muscat, reaffirming the enduring bonds of India–Oman friendship and maritime cooperation," the Indian Embassy in Muscat said on X.

India’s Ambassador to Oman, Prashant Pise, visited the warship and congratulated the crew on the occasion.

The ship's crew also participated in the flag-hoisting ceremony organised at the Embassy.

--IANS

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Cairo, Aug 17 (IANS) Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary (Consular of Passport and Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), highlighted the priorities of India's BRICS 2026 Chairship at the India-Egypt BRICS Partnership Conference.

"Sripriya Ranganathan addressed the Inaugural Session of the India-Egypt BRICS Partnership Conference, organised by the Indian Embassy in Egypt in collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs, at the Diplomatic Club in Cairo," the Indian Embassy in Egypt said on social media platform X on Sunday.

"Secretary Ranganathan highlighted the priorities of India's BRICS 2026 Chairship and underscored how India-Egypt Strategic Partnership provides a strong foundation for closer cooperation within BRICS and for advancing the priorities of the Global South," it added.

Secretary Ranganathan is on an official visit to Egypt, Palestine and Lebanon from August 16-21.

According to the MEA, during her visit, Secretary Ranganathan will meet her counterparts and various stakeholders.

"The visit will focus on reinforcing India's friendly ties with these countries and also offer an opportunity for discussions on regional developments and other issues of mutual interest," the Ministry said.

It also noted that Secretary Ranganathan will deliver the keynote address at the inaugural session of India-Egypt in "BRICS: Towards a Stronger Voice for the Global South", aimed at discussing ways to strengthen the India-Egypt partnership within BRICS.

The MEA also mentioned that this is the Secretary's maiden visit to these countries in her current capacity and is expected to further strengthen India's ties with the region.

Last month, Secretary Ranganathan co-chaired the 7th Meeting of the India-UAE Joint Committee on Consular Affairs (JCCA) where India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of their citizens living in each other's countries.

The meeting was held in New Delhi on July 22 and was co-chaired by Secretary Ranganathan and Omar Obaid Mohammed Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE.

--IANS

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Kohima, Aug 17 (IANS) The Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) has reiterated its opposition to the erection of border fencing through the Naga homeland, saying the Nagas have the right to free movement within their homeland and that any attempt to erect such fencing would be resisted by all means.

In a statement on Sunday, the NSCN-IM said that scraping of Free Movement Regime (FMR) on the ground of Indian security is "anti-Naga", because it restricts the rights of Nagas to nurture cultural and Naga brotherhood at its root.

"Nagas have always maintained close ties with its neighbouring Naga villages before the Naga homeland was arbitrarily erected with the so-called border pillars, dismembering even the hearths of our homes which is not only outrageous but suppressive, oppressive and repressive in nature," the influential Naga body said.

It added that the Nagas will never permit the proposed so-called border fencing through the Naga homeland to further alienate the Naga brotherhood.

"Nagas are one wherever they are. Nagas are not illegal immigrants in their own land. Nagas do not object fencing elsewhere to check the influx of illegal immigrants, but at no cost will Nagas allow our homeland to be fenced/divided to serve the interest of others," the NSCN-IM said.

The statement said that Nagas will not be intimidated by any form of force or other suppressive, oppressive and repressive actions.

"The plot of Union government to entice the villagers with land compensation for fencing the border is a cheap agenda. The guardian and custodian of Naga customary, traditional, its land and other resources of the Naga village must stand guard and remain vigilant of such activities. The village chiefs and land owners must not succumb to such derogatory approach of the Union government. The rights of Nagas cannot be bartered away for few dollars," the Naga group said.

The NSCN-IM added that the present Naga generation must stand firm for the future Naga generation like the forefathers who stood their ground for us.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2024 announced that the Free Movement Regime (FMR), which earlier allowed people residing along the India-Myanmar border to travel 16 km into each other's territory without a passport and visa, would be scrapped soon.

Instead, the MHA decided to replace the FMR to adopt a new scheme to issue a pass to the border residents of both India and Myanmar living within 10 km on either side of the frontier to regulate cross-border movements.

The Nagaland and Mizoram governments and a large number of political parties and civil societies in the two Northeastern states have been strongly opposing both border fencing and the scrapping of the FMR.

Four Northeastern states -- Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram -- share a 1,643-km unfenced border with Myanmar.

The MHA had earlier decided to erect fencing on the entire porous border, known for the smuggling of arms, ammunition, narcotics, illegal cross-border movement and various other contrabands, at a cost of Rs 31,000 crore.

--IANS

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Chandigarh, Aug 16 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill on Sunday called on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal to enquire about his health and wish him a speedy recovery.

Shergill was accompanied by Punjab BJP Vice-President Tajinder Singh Bittu during the visit.

Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal suffered a hand injury after allegedly being attacked with a 'kirpan' by a Nihang Sikh at a gurdwara in Maharashtra's Nanded three days ago.

Sukhbir Singh Badal has sustained major injuries and received prompt medical treatment.

The dastardly attack on the SAD Chief, the second in the last two years, has raised wider apprehension about the political situation in the state, which is poised for Assembly elections early next year.

According to the information shared by Sukhbir Singh Badal's wife and Lok Sabha MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, the SAD Chief sustained severe injuries requiring "at least 150 stitches on each side" of his right arm.

She also confirmed that she has written to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The BJP leaders expressed concern over Sukhbir Singh Badal's condition and conveyed their best wishes for his early recovery.

The visit assumes significance amid the political dynamics in Punjab, where the BJP and the Akali Dal have had a long history of alliance as well as periods of strained relations.

Shergill's presence, along with the BJP's state unit leader, reflects a gesture of personal concern and political courtesy extended to the Akali Dal Chief during his medical treatment.

Sources indicated that the interaction remained focused on Badal's health.

No political discussions were reported during the meeting, with the emphasis remaining on his well-being and recovery.

Sukhbir Singh Badal, a prominent figure in Punjab politics and son of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, has been at the helm of the Shiromani Akali Dal.

Jaiveer Shergill, known for his articulate interventions as the party's national spokesperson, took the initiative to personally visit the Akali Dal President.

Tajinder Singh Bittu's presence further underlined the involvement of the BJP's Punjab unit in extending solidarity.

As Sukhbir Singh Badal continues his treatment, well-wishers from various political backgrounds have been expressing concern.

The BJP leaders' visit adds to the messages of support being extended to the Akali Dal President at this time. Further updates on his medical condition are awaited.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 16 (IANS) Outer Delhi Warriors produced a strong batting performance to defeat Purani Dilli 6 by 21 runs in a high-scoring Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 fixture on Sunday.

Batting first, the Warriors posted a huge 219/5 in 20 overs, with Yajas Sharma, Akshay Saini and Harsh Tyagi playing key roles.

The Warriors got off to a flying start as openers Priyansh Arya and Yajas Sharma added 120 runs for the first wicket in just over nine overs. Arya played a quick knock of 30 off 21 balls before being dismissed, but Yajas continued to attack the Purani Dilli 6 bowlers.

Yajas was in complete control and kept scoring at a rapid pace. He eventually fell for an excellent 86 off 36 balls, but the Warriors continued to score freely despite losing a few wickets in the middle overs.

With the innings needing a strong finish, Harsh Tyagi and Akshay Saini stepped up and added 55 runs for the fifth wicket. Tyagi scored 32 off 15 balls, while Saini provided the final push with a quick-fire 49* off 23 balls to take the Warriors to 219/5.

For Purani Dilli 6, Digvesh Rathi was the standout bowler, returning figures of 3/25 in his four overs.

Chasing 220, Purani Dilli 6 also made an impressive start. Openers Samarth Seth and Aryan Gaur put together 104 runs for the first wicket, giving their side hope of chasing down the big target.

Gaur led the attack with a brilliant 65 off 37 balls, while Seth contributed 42 off 24 balls. However, the Warriors fought back strongly once the opening partnership was broken.

Aman Chaudhary played a key role in turning the game in the Warriors' favour, picking up three wickets in his first three overs and eventually completing his spell with figures of 4/38 in four overs. The wickets triggered a mini-collapse and put Purani Dilli 6 under pressure.

Lalit Yadav and Ashwini Chillar then tried to rebuild the innings, but the required run rate continued to climb. Yadav was eventually dismissed hit wicket by Harsh Tyagi for 29 off 23 balls.

With Purani Dilli 6 needing 41 runs from the final over, the result was virtually decided as Outer Delhi Warriors completed a convincing victory in a high-scoring contest.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 16 (IANS) 'We The Leaders' founder and former Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President K. Annamalai on Sunday alleged that some Ministers in the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led state government had begun demanding commissions ranging from two to four per cent in government tenders.

He, however, did not identify the Ministers or release the audio recording that he claimed would substantiate the allegation.

Addressing a meeting of his supporters in Chennai, Annamalai said that corruption had begun resurfacing despite the state government's assertion that such practices had been eliminated.

He added that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay was personally opposed to corruption but urged him to closely monitor his Ministers and officials.

According to Annamalai, commissions were not being sought in major tenders, but some Ministers had recently begun demanding cuts in other contracts.

He claimed to possess an audio clip in which demands for commissions were purportedly made.

Annamalai alleged that those seeking payments were attempting to justify their demands by claiming that they had spent money during the recent state Assembly election.

He called upon Chief Minister Vijay to act immediately and "bridle" Ministers and officials before the practice became entrenched.

The former BJP leader said that he was raising the issue at an early stage rather than waiting for a year to make it a major political controversy.

At the same time, Annamalai reiterated that the new TVK-led state government should be given adequate time to demonstrate its administrative capabilities.

Describing the TVK's electoral victory as a political revolution in Tamil Nadu, the former BJP leader said that 101 of the party's 108 legislators were first-time MLAs.

He added that the state administration had performed well in some areas while making mistakes in others.

Annamalai said his party organisation was monitoring the state government's functioning and submitting reports on matters requiring attention.

He welcomed instances in which the state administration had responded to criticism, including action against Tasmac liquor outlets located within 500 metres of educational institutions and places of worship.

"If they (TVK government) do not perform well, we will be the first to level charges against them," the former BJP leader said, while adding that constructive action by the state government deserved appreciation.

Referring to the state government's efforts to save Rs 15,000 crore through the 2026 Budget, Annamalai urged CM Vijay to allocate Rs 5,000 crore each to three priority sectors -- restoration and protection of rural water bodies, improvement of infrastructure in government schools, and comprehensive development of rural areas.

--IANS

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Kolkata, Aug 16 (IANS) A youth died due to medical negligence at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the family members alleged on Sunday.

They posted on social media from the hospital premises and urged West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and state Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee to investigate the incident and change the way health services are provided in state hospitals.

According to hospital sources, the deceased youth's name is Pritam Roy. He was brought to the trauma care centre at around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday with serious injuries in a road accident.

Pritam, a resident of Rajchandrapur in Howrah district, had broken both the bones of his legs and the left bone of his waist.

According to RG Kar Hospital sources, the patient went into haemorrhagic shock due to excessive bleeding following which he died at around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday.

The deceased's family member, Shouvik Sarkar, on Sunday directly accused the RG Kar Hospital authorities of negligence in treatment.

The hospital's Superintendent Saptarshi Chatterjee said that the complaint is being investigated.

Earlier in March this year, Arup Banerjee, a resident of Dum Dum, died after getting stuck in the lift of the RG Kar Trauma Care building. At that time, allegations of negligence in surveillance were made against the authorities.

On August 9, 2024, the rape and murder of a female doctor in the emergency department of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata shook the entire country.

Movements, protests, night vigils, hunger strikes, frequent processions were organised as people from different sections of society took to the streets demanding justice.

At that time, questions were raised about the security arrangements of the hospital.

Later, in a meeting with the administration, the agitating junior doctors discussed various issues such as infrastructure development, surveillance, etc.

The meeting also provided assurances.

However, despite this, there has been no improvement in the hospital's infrastructure and management system, it is alleged.

--IANS

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Guwahati, Aug 16 (IANS) Captain Denish Das and Saurav Mousum Dihingia produced a composed batting effort before rain brought a premature end to the contest as Barpeta Braves defeated Nagaon Rangers by 14 runs via the VJD Method in the Assam Premier League at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday. The result also confirmed that Nagaon Rangers, Tezpur Titans and Jorhat Stallions are out of contention for the next stage of the competition.

Asked to bat first, Nagaon Rangers posted 133/6 in their 20 overs, with Jitu Ali leading the way with an unbeaten 76 off 48 balls. He struck seven fours and three sixes in a fluent innings that kept Nagaon competitive. Dhruv Raaj Borah added 20 off 19 balls, while SK Jnyanam contributed 12.

Barpeta Braves' bowlers kept the scoring under control despite Jitu's late charge. Bikiran Das was the pick of the attack with 2/18 from his four overs.

In reply, Barpeta lost Hrishikesh Das for 21 in the sixth over, but Saurav Mousum Dihingia and Denish Das ensured there was no further damage. The pair put together an unbeaten partnership to keep the Braves comfortably ahead of the required rate.

Dihingia remained unbeaten on 40 off 46 balls, hitting four boundaries, while captain Denish Das once again led from the front with an unbeaten 46 off 32 deliveries. His innings included three fours and a six and came at a strike rate of 143.75.

Barpeta reached 109/1 in 16 overs when rain intervened, with the result subsequently decided by the VJD Method, with Barpeta Braves emerging 14-run winners.

The victory keeps Barpeta Braves firmly in the race for the top spots, while Nagaon Rangers' defeat brings their campaign to an end. Along with Nagaon, Tezpur Titans and Jorhat Stallions have also been eliminated from contention.

--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, Aug 16 (IANS) Music composer Amaal Mallik, who has composed the song ‘Yeh Awarapan’ from the recently released Emraan Hashmi-starrer ‘Awarapan 2’, has shared how he deals with creative differences in the work environment.

The composer spoke with IANS during the promotions of the film in the BKC area of Mumbai, and shared that he doesn’t back down, and always puts his point firmly.

He told IANS, “Yes, there are creative differences. I don't back off. I don't say, ‘This is wrong’. It is the ability of the other person to make creative differences. Those who have a big ego remove me from the film. Those who have a good mind, work with me. Both ways are right. I don't say, their film won't run without me, and it’s not like it will make much of a difference for me if I miss their film. I am Amal Malik without their films. Even if you don't take Amal Malik, someone else can give you super hit music”.

“There is no iron clad rule. But I want to do it this way. That is my fight. There will be less work. There will be more enemies. People will say, ‘He takes risks. Why does he do this? Why does he do this?’ But, it is more important to make good music. People think I get privileges from the industry since I belong to the industry. They think insiders get a phone call easily. They get 3 movies in a night. 2-3 people call us and remove us from the movies as well. But, I want to stand with music”, he added.

Meanwhile, ‘Awarapan 2’ is a sequel to ‘Awarapan’, and sees Emraan Hashmi reprising his role of Shivam Pandit. While ‘Awarapan’ was dubbed a flop upon its release, the film gained a significant loyal following in later years, eventually attaining the cult-status owing to its music, and Emraan Hashmi’s performance. ‘Awarapan 2’ is currently playing in cinemas.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 16 (IANS) Actress Sunny Leone offered prayers at the ISKCON temple, along with husband Daniel Weber on Sunday, to seek blessings for her upcoming movie.

Sunny looked as beautiful and elegant as ever as she appeared in a dusty pink embroidered salwar suit, light makeup and open hair.

Accompanying her, Daniel was seen in a green shirt paired with a white T-shirt underneath and cream pants.

Sunny took blessings at the temple as she is gearing up to begin shooting for her upcoming project, details of which are still not clear.

Meanwhile, Sunny has also been busy with her 'DJ World Tour' and has been performing across India, Thailand and Canada. As part of the tour, she graced the stage in Pattaya, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kochi and Vancouver. Talking about the international leg of the tour, Sunny has also performed in Glasgow and Dublin, in addition to other shows in various parts of Europe, the US and Sri Lanka.

Up next, Sunny has Australia in the pipeline as part of the 'DJ World Tour'.

Shifting our focus to Sunny's film lineup, basking in the success of 'Kennedy', she is also working on the horror comedy 'Chudail'.

She has already concluded the shoot for her next.

Made under the direction of TLV Prasad, 'Chudail' also has Mandana Karimi and Rahul Dev on board as the lead cast.

Filmed extensively in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the movie will see Sunny as a spirit haunting the streets of Bulandshahr. Locking horns with her, Mandana Karimi essays the role of the rival supernatural force.

'Chudail' which marks producer Mahindra Dhariwal’s 50th production is expected to be out by the end of September 2026.

Touted to be a pan‑India release, the movie will also be available in dubbed versions in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Aug 16 (IANS) Hollywood actress Rumer Willis is over the moon with her sister Tallulah Willis tying the knot. The actress took to her Instagram on Sunday, and shared a series of pictures from the wedding ceremony of Tallulah and Justin Acee.

The pictures capture the festivities, preparation and some heartwarming moments. The actress also penned a long note in the caption, as she celebrated her sister’s union with Justin.

She wrote, “MY BABY GIRL @buuski IS MARRIED!!! To say it was the best wedding I have ever been to is not an understatement and while I realize I may be biased. It was extraordinary full of love, whimsy heart so much Magic and perfect perfectly Tallulah and Justin. What an absolute gift to share in such an incredible day with the people that I love most. I’m so happy that I have been able to witness your love story unfold, and so grateful to have a new brother. Our family is so much stronger because you are in it @justinacee. @demimoore and @ericbuterbaugh absolutely outdid themselves (sic)”.

“What a gift to be witness to such deep love, and to have such a shiny example of what I hope to create for myself one day. Not to mention the best flower girl in the business my heart is so full of love. @scoutlaruewillis my absolute partner in crime. I love you to the moon. Tallulah Belle you are a treasure I wish you the deepest love for all the lifetime in front of you (sic)”, she added.

Rumer and Tallulah are two of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore’s three daughters, with Scout Willis between them. Rumer is the eldest, and is an actress and singer, while Tallulah, the youngest, has explored acting, fashion and creative work. The sisters have remained close and frequently support one another publicly.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 16 (IANS) Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan wished a happy birthday to the 'chillest' dad as filmmaker David Dhawan turned 75 years old on Sunday.

The 'October' actor took to his official Instagram handle and published a happy photo where he could be seen hugging his father, David, from behind.

The father and son duo were seen smiling for the camera in the post captioned, "Happy birthday to the chillest dad..75 hard (sic)."

Actress Karisma Kapoor, who has worked with David on several films, commented, "Happy 75th to Davidji."

David celebrated his 75th birthday in the presence of friends and colleagues from the fraternity.

Writer and director Rumy Jafry posted some glimpses from the birthday bash on his official handle.

In one of the photos, David posed with Bollywood hunk Salman Khan, Varun and other guests during the celebration.

Filmmaker and producer Sajid Nadiadwala also marked his presence at the star-studded gathering.

Another picture showed Varun lovingly planting a kiss on his dad's cheek while the others applauded the precious father-son moment.

In the album, we could also see all the guests gathered around David during the cake-cutting ceremony.

Meanwhile, over the years, David has directed Varun in many projects.

Varun’s first film with his father was the 2014 outing 'Main Tera Hero'. The romantic comedy also featured Ileana D’Cruz and Nargis Fakhri as the leading ladies.

In 2017, they came together once again for the reboot version of David's popular movie 'Judwaa'. Varun was seen playing a double role as Raja and Prem in the drama.

Next, Varun went on to headline David's 1995 classic 'Coolie No. 1', that starred Govinda as the lead. Sara Ali Khan was the female lead in the remake version of the blockbuster.

This year itself, Varun and David collaborated for another romantic entertainer, 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'. Along with Varun, the project also had Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde as the leads.

--IANS

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