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Free Press Journal

Jun 19, 2026, 07:04 AM

Cocktail 2: A Predictable Sequel That Fails to Leave a Lasting Impact

Cast: Kriti Sanon, Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna Director: Homi Adajania Where to watch: In theatres Rating: 2.5 stars When Cocktail released in 2012, it gave Bollywood one of its most memorable love triangles with unforgettable music. 14 years later, director Homi Adajania returned with Cocktail 2, hoping to recreate that magic. Unfortunately, while the film looks beautiful and has good music, it struggles to leave a lasting impact. The story follows Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, who are in a live-in relationship. While they love each other, Rashmika is constantly worried about why Shahid isn't ready for marriage. To reconnect, they head to Sicily for a vacation. There, they meet Kriti Sanon, and the three decide to spend time together. Soon, emotions get messy, relationships get complicated, and the drama begins. Actors' Performance The biggest surprise of the film is Kriti Sanon. She owns almost every scene she is in and looks stunning throughout the movie. Whether it's her screen presence, confidence or emotional scenes, Kriti easily emerges as the best part of Cocktail 2. Shahid Kapoor does a decent job, but somehow his character never becomes interesting enough. In many scenes, he gets overshadowed by both Kriti and Rashmika. Rashmika struggles in the first half. Her performance feels uneven, and her Hindi dialogues don't always sound natural. Also, the chemistry between Shahid and Rashmika isn't strong enough to make you emotionally invest in their relationship. A post shared by Maddock Films (@maddockfilms) Supporting actors, including Tiku Talsania, do their part well. Music One thing that definitely works is the music. Pritam's songs provide much-needed relief whenever the story starts feeling repetitive. The soundtrack is catchy and helps keep the film moving. Direction & Story Visually, the film is gorgeous. Sicily's stunning locations and scenic views add a lot of charm. But beyond the beautiful backdrop, the story offers very little that's fresh. It is stuck in the past. It's another familiar Bollywood lesson on love, marriage and relationships. The plot is predictable, there are hardly any surprises, and the film often feels like a sequel that didn't really need to be made. The second half does become slightly more engaging, but even then, it's Kriti who keeps things interesting. A post shared by Maddock Films (@maddockfilms) FPJ Verdict Cocktail 2 looks great, sounds good and has a star performer in Kriti. But a predictable story, weak chemistry and lack of emotional connection stop it from becoming memorable. It's a one-time watch at best.

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 06:45 AM

Delhi HC dismisses Telegram's plea challenging Centre's temporary ban on messaging app ahead of NEET re-examination

The Delhi High Court today dismissed Telegram ’s challenge to the Centre’s temporary ban imposed ahead of the NEET re-examination, granting no relief to the messaging platform. Justice Tejas Karia upheld the government’s order under Section 69A of the IT Act and confirmed the suspension will remain in force until June 22. The court found no grounds to set aside the blocking direction and rejected Telegram’s plea against the restriction. The decision leaves the messaging app blocked for users in India for the duration specified by the government. Delhi High Court dismisses Telegram’s plea challenging the Centre’s temporary ban imposed in view of the NEET re-examination, granting no relief to the messaging platform. Justice Tejas Karia upholds the government’s decision to block Telegram till June 22, rejecting the… pic.twitter.com/8Sk95cFHYN — ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026 Rejecting Telegram’s contention that the blocking order lacked proper reasoning and reflected non-application of mind, the High Court held that both the original blocking order and the subsequent review undertaken by the statutory Review Committee demonstrated due consideration of the relevant material. Justice Karia noted that the authorities had recorded sufficient reasons for their decision and that the review mechanism prescribed under the law had also been properly followed. “The orders are well-founded and supported by reasons. The orders do not suffer from non-application of mind,” the Court observed. The government had informed the Court that the blocking order was subsequently reviewed by a Review Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary, which examined the matter and found adequate grounds for continuing the temporary restriction. News Alert ! Government empowered to direct blocking of access to Telegram: Delhi HC on restrictions on app ahead of NEET-UG re-exam. pic.twitter.com/VcVNaVxRtG — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2026 Telegram had argued that the blocking order imposed a blanket restriction on a communication platform used by millions of users and therefore failed the constitutional test of proportionality. The company maintained that the alleged misconduct of certain users could not justify disabling access to the entire platform. However, the High Court accepted the Centre’s position that the restriction was a narrowly tailored and temporary measure designed specifically to prevent the misuse of the platform during the conduct of the NEET re-examination. The Court held that the government had adopted the least restrictive means available in the prevailing circumstances and that the action could not be characterized as excessive or disproportionate. “The government’s measures are least restrictive. It cannot be held that the order is disproportionate,” the Court said. One of Telegram’s principal arguments was that Section 69A of the Information Technology Act empowers the government to block specific “information” and not an intermediary platform as a whole. According to the company, the provision did not authorize a complete shutdown of access to a communication service. The High Court, however, rejected this interpretation and held that there was no basis in the statutory framework to exclude a platform from the scope of the term “information.” Justice Karia observed that the language of the Information Technology Act did not support Telegram’s restrictive reading of the provision. “We have also held that under the IT Act there is no reason to exclude the platform from the ambit of ‘information’,” the Court remarked. The ruling effectively affirms the government’s power, in appropriate circumstances, to block access to an entire platform where such action is considered necessary under Section 69A. The Union Government had strongly defended the temporary blocking order, arguing that Telegram had become a significant conduit for organised cheating networks involved in circulating leaked examination material and related content ahead of the NEET re-examination. Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the government possessed credible material indicating large-scale misuse of the platform by individuals and groups attempting to compromise the examination process. He argued that the action was preventive in nature and aimed at safeguarding the sanctity of one of the country’s largest entrance examinations. The Centre emphasised that the restriction was imposed in the larger public interest and was necessary to ensure fairness for lakhs of students appearing in the re-examination. Mehta further contended that the blocking order was issued strictly in accordance with the procedure prescribed under Section 69A and the relevant Blocking Rules. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma and Advocate Ashish Dixit also appeared on behalf of the Central Government during the proceedings. Opposing the government’s action, Senior Advocate Dhruv Mehta, appearing for Telegram, argued that the blanket restriction on the platform was excessive and unjustified. Telegram maintained that it had cooperated with law enforcement agencies and had taken action against channels and groups found to be involved in unlawful activities. The company contended that targeted action against offending users and channels would have been a more proportionate response than blocking access to the entire platform. The platform also argued that several less restrictive alternatives were available to the government and that the blocking order failed to satisfy constitutional standards governing restrictions on communication and access to information. Despite these submissions, the Court ultimately concluded that the exceptional circumstances surrounding the NEET re-examination warranted temporary intervention and that the government’s action met the legal requirements of necessity and proportionality. After examining the rival submissions, the Delhi High Court dismissed Telegram’s plea in its entirety and declined to interfere with the Centre’s decision. The Court held that the requirements under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act had been satisfied, the procedural safeguards had been observed, and the temporary blocking measure was justified given the extraordinary circumstances associated with the NEET re-examination. With the dismissal of Telegram’s challenge, the temporary blocking order issued by the Central Government remains in force and is presently scheduled to continue until June 22 (Monday). The judgment marks a significant endorsement of the government’s emergency powers under Section 69A and underscores the judiciary’s willingness to uphold temporary restrictions on digital platforms where authorities demonstrate a compelling public interest and adherence to statutory safeguards.

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Siasat News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 06:26 AM

Telangana Braces for Widespread Rainfall as Southwest Monsoon Revives

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a revival of the Southwest Monsoon over Telangana from June 23, raising hopes of widespread rainfall across the state after a prolonged lull in monsoon activity. According to the IMD’s latest weather bulletin, the Southwest Monsoon is likely to advance into more parts of Telangana, along with Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and parts of Chhattisgarh around June 23. Meteorologists said atmospheric conditions have become favourable for the monsoon to regain momentum and spread across the remaining parts of the state over the next few days. The monsoon’s northern limit has been hovering near Hyderabad and Bhadrachalam in recent days. However, weather experts now expect a significant shift in weather patterns beginning June 21, when the current isolated rainfall activity is likely to intensify into fairly widespread to widespread rainfall across Telangana. By June 23, the monsoon is expected to strengthen further and establish its presence across the state, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing heat and dry conditions. The IMD has also predicted a gradual drop in maximum temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius from June 20 onwards. Officials said the retreat of the dry, heatwave-inducing air mass and its replacement by moisture-laden winds will create favourable conditions for sustained rainfall. Between June 17 and 20, Telangana is expected to receive isolated to scattered rainfall. From June 21 onwards, however, fairly widespread to widespread rainfall is likely across all districts, according to the forecast. The IMD has also warned of isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, over parts of Telangana during the period. The forecast is expected to bring relief to farmers and residents who have been awaiting stronger monsoon activity for agricultural operations and a respite from rising temperatures.

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Free Press Journal

Jun 19, 2026, 06:14 AM

Unlock the Power of Slow Walking: Boost Your Health with Sauntering

Have you ever considered that slow walking or sauntering might actually be good for your health? Most people haven’t. But taking a stroll is a simple way to stay fit and relaxed. World Sauntering Day, celebrated on June 19, highlights how strolling can benefit both your body and mind. In this article, we’ll explore why slow walking matters, share Ayurvedic tips for making the most of it, and introduce some Patanjali products that can support your healthy routine. Importance of Slow Walking or Sauntering In Ayurveda, sauntering is a powerful way to balance both body and mind. Because it doesn’t leave you feeling tired, it is especially helpful for calming the Pitta Dosha, which is linked to your nervous system and movement. A major benefit of walking slowly is that it helps calm your mind and lowers stress and anxiety. Slow walking after meals boosts the digestive fire, which, in turn, arouses saliva and thus helps digest food better. Since you don’t use force while walking, it lightly boosts circulation, oils the joints, and promotes heart rate, helping keep the heart healthy. It also doesn’t burn you out. You can include tips from Ayurveda to slow walking or sauntering to stay healthy. Also, know the Patanjali products that help you boost this healthy exercise option. 3 Ayurvedic Tips to Boost Sauntering According to Dosha : Modify the slow walking as per your Dosha for benefits. Someone with Vata Dosha should opt for walking in nature, such as in parks or on wooded trails. For the Kapha dosha, slow walking boosts their energy levels. It removes any heaviness. A Pitta Dosha should slow walk to cool internally. Early morning walk in fresh air and low sunlight maintains their health. Pre- and Post-walk Preparation : Massage the body, esp. joints and feet, before a bath for good circulation and for the joints, feet and muscles to stay sprightly. Before and after the walk, have warm water, including herbal teas, for hydration and healthy digestive fires. Go for a walk before having breakfast or after lunch and dinner for digestion. Also, wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes helps the body breathe and keeps your feet fit. Pranayama helps in dosha balancing while keeping your breathing steady. Herbs : Include ashwagandha since it benefits the energy levels and lowers stress and anxiety. Bramhi is known to provide mental lucidity and focus. Dashamoola deals with inflammation and boosts joint health. Shallaki is an anti-inflammatory herb perfect for joint comfort and treating cartilage decline. Guggulu removes toxins, lowers difficulty in the joints, and boosts local circulation. Patanjali offers many products using tenets of Ayurveda to help stay healthy with sauntering. Divya Mahanarayan Taila (100 ml) has Ayurvedic ingredients like ashwagandha, gokshura, sesame oil, jatamansi, and manjistha. It offers nourishment and relief to the joints, muscles, and nerves. It lowers pain and stiffness while improving mobility. Choose Patanjali Ashvashila (11 gms) to increase stamina and energy levels while lowering stress and anxiety. It also boosts the immune system and improves joint and muscle health. It is great to boost vitality. It has ashwagandha and shilajit. For breakfast or even lunch, include Patanjali Roasted Dalia (500 g) to make sweet or savoury dishes, as it is easy to digest, high in dietary fibre, and is a good source of protein, iron, magnesium and phosphorus. Patanjali Moosli Pak (200 gms) is a nourishing tonic that restores physical stamina and boosts metabolism while nourishing the mind and body. It manages low libido, fatigue, stress, anxiety, and low immunity. It has Ayurvedic ingredients, such as safed moosli, peepal, marich, cinnamon, shatavar, gokhru, harad, clove, and ghee. Celebrate World Sauntering Day on June 19 by including slow walking to stay healthy. Add Ayurveda and Patanjali products to boost this mission.

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Siasat News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 05:15 AM

Mexico Advances to Knockout Stage with 1-0 Win Over South Korea

: Mexico took advantage of a defensive blunder by South Korea to win 1-0 and become the first team to advance to the knockout stage of the World Cup. It marks a major triumph for a team that failed to get out of the group stage in 2022 and now has won twice on home soil in front of jubilant crowds. Mexico players celebrated at midfield and waved to the fans who cheered and sang from the packed stands at Estadio Akron on Thursday. Luis Romo scored in the 50th minute after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with defender Lee Gi-hyuk and dropped the ball inside the area. Romo easily found the open net after picking up the loose ball. The South Koreans nearly equalized in the 87th minute when Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel stopped a header from close range by Cho Gue-sung, then made an even better save of Yang Hyun-jun’s attempt on the rebound, extending his right arm to keep the ball from crossing the line. “We’ve been doing very well,” Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said. “It wasn’t a great match, but I think that our opponent didn’t let us do too much. But we still were able to score, on that mistake, in addition to another two or three opportunities.” Mexico won Group A with six points in two matches, three more than South Korea and five more than the Czech Republic and South Africa, who drew 1-1 earlier Thursday in Atlanta. The top two teams from each group move on to the knockout stage, along with the best eight third-place teams. A round of 32 is being played for the first time at the World Cup after the tournament was expanded to 48 teams. Mexico opened with a 2-0 win over South Africa, while South Korea rallied for a 2-1 victory over the Czechs. Mexico closes group play on Wednesday against the Czech Republic in Mexico City, while South Korea takes on South Africa in Monterrey. Mexico had never won a World Cup game on home soil outside Mexico City. Before 2026, all but one of its nine World Cup matches at home, spanning the 1970 and 1986 tournaments, had been played at Estadio Azteca, with five wins and three draws. When it played in Toluca in 1970, it lost 4-1 to Italy in the quarterfinals. Thursday’s match got off to a lackluster start, with neither team creating significant scoring opportunities and both squads getting loudly booed after the halftime whistle. Mexico, ranked 13th, was eliminated in the group stage four years ago in Qatar. That followed seven straight eliminations in the round of the 16. South Korea star Son Heung-min had another disappointing game and was substituted out in the 57th. The 33-year-old Son is looking to become South Korea ‘s top goal scorer at the World Cup and the Asian player with the most goals in the tournament. The former Tottenham star, currently with Los Angeles FC, entered with three goals over three prior World Cups. Kim kept Mexico from adding to the lead by coming up with a tough save off a close-range shot by Raúl Jiménez in the 75th. The South Koreans pressed through the end but could not equalize. South Korea, ranked 22nd, is making its 11th straight World Cup appearance and 12th overall, the most of any Asian country. Its best result was a fourth-place finish at the tournament it co-hosted with Japan in 2002. Since then, the South Koreans have never gone beyond the round of 16. “The mistake that we made was unfortunate,” coach Hong Myung-bo said. This time there were no empty seats in Guadalajara, contrary to what happened in the earlier match between South Korea and the Czech Republic. FIFA had blamed fans standing in the concourses for the empty seats. Thursday’s crowd was announced at 45,522 for the 45,664-capacity stadium, which was hosting the national team for the first time.

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DD News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 05:14 AM

Indian Railways to Transport Fly Ash Across Country, Promoting Sustainable Industrial Practices and Circular Economy

In a major step towards promoting sustainable industrial practices and strengthening the circular economy, the Ministry of Railways is planning a large-scale initiative to transport fly ash across the country through the railway network. The proposal was discussed during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, with Ministers of State for Railways V. Somanna and Ravneet Singh Bittu also in attendance. The initiative aims to facilitate the efficient movement of fly ash from thermal power plants to industries where it can be used as a key raw material in infrastructure development, including road construction, brick manufacturing, cement production and other industrial applications. Tackling a 340-Million-Tonne Challenge India generates nearly 340 million tonnes of fly ash annually from thermal power plants. Traditionally viewed as an industrial waste product, fly ash has posed environmental and logistical challenges due to the large quantities accumulated near power generation facilities. The Railways’ proposed logistics network seeks to transform this challenge into an opportunity by creating dedicated transportation infrastructure comprising specialised containers and rail corridors. The system will enable the safe and efficient movement of fly ash from production centres to industrial consumers across the country. Supporting Infrastructure and Housing Development Fly ash is widely used in the manufacture of cement, concrete products, bricks, blocks and construction boards. By improving transportation and availability, the initiative is expected to lower logistics costs and increase access to this important industrial raw material. The Ministry of Railways said that greater availability of fly ash could help reduce production costs for construction materials such as cement and bricks, ultimately contributing to more affordable housing and infrastructure projects in both urban and rural areas. The planned rail-based transportation system will also ensure cleaner movement of fly ash through purpose-built containers and wagons, minimising environmental concerns associated with conventional transport methods. Advancing the Circular Economy The initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting resource efficiency and sustainable development. By enabling the productive use of industrial by-products, the project seeks to convert waste into a valuable economic resource. The Ministry described the proposal as an example of the circular economy in action, where materials that were once considered waste can be reintegrated into the production cycle, reducing environmental burden while creating economic value.

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Aaj Tak

Jun 19, 2026, 05:07 AM

Delhi's Monsoon Delayed: Expected Arrival Pushed Back to First Week of July

People in the national capital Delhi will have to wait longer for the monsoon. According to meteorologists, the monsoon in Delhi may arrive in the first week of July instead of the usual date of June 27. The main reason is the non-formation of a favorable weather system in the Bay of Bengal. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon usually enters in the last week of June, but this time it is likely to be delayed. According to the Meteorological Department (IMD), a low-pressure area is usually formed in the Bay of Bengal around June. It moves the moist winds of the Arabian Sea towards south India. Then this system moves towards northwest India through Odisha, Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It forms an anti-clockwise circulation, which helps in the advancement of the monsoon. But this time this system has not been formed. Skymet's meteorologist Mahesh Palawat said that the system has not yet formed in the Bay of Bengal. The monsoon system ID3 is expected to reach Delhi around June. The first week of July is expected to be favorable for the formation of the Indian monsoon.

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 05:05 AM

Indian Equity Markets Open Lower Amid Global Market Volatility

Indian equity markets opened Friday’s trade on a lower note after the tech stocks plunged by up to 7%. The Nifty 50 opened the trade 203.25 points or 0.84% lower at 23,964.75, while the BSE Sensex pulled back 719.13 points or 0.93% to open at 76,690.85. Tech Mahindra, Infosys, HCL Technologies, TCS, and Wipro were the five major losers in the Nifty 50. The global markets are assessing the signing of the US-Iran peace deal. Crude oil prices continuing below $80 a barrel, along with hawkish Fed signals, are also impacting sentiment. Following this, the GIFT Nifty is indicating a positive start for Indian markets, up 15 points or 0.06%. Earlier on Thursday, the Nifty 50 closed the session 82.30 points or 0.34% higher at 24,168, while the BSE Sensex advanced 254.36 points or 0.33% to close at 77,405. Asia-Pacific markets opened on a higher note as investors assess the US-Iran peace deal. Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 opened higher, advancing 0.6% after hitting a record high on Thursday, while the Topix was flat. South Korea’s Kospi jumped 2.8% after crossing the 9,000 mark for the first time yesterday, while the small-cap Kosdaq slid 0.39%. China, Hong Kong and Taiwan markets are closed for a holiday. On Thursday, the US equity markets staged a comeback after the US Fed FOMC results of keeping rates steady, but indicated a rate hike in 2026. The S&P 500 added 1.08%, closing at 7,500.58, and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 1.91% to 26,517.93. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 72.15 points, or 0.14%, to end at 51,564.70. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 0.77% to trade at $76.01 per barrel. On the other hand, Brent crude futures with August delivery continue to trade below the psychologically important level of $80. On COMEX, crude prices dropped 0.77% to trade at $76.01 a barrel. On COMEX, the precious metal was trading at Rs 4,204.90 an ounce, down 0.97%. The rate for 24-carat gold today is Rs 1,49,390 per 10 grams. The price of gold has declined 2.93% from yesterday. The 24 kt gold rate today in Delhi is Rs 1,49,130 per 10 grams. The 18-carat gold price today in India is Rs 1,12,042.5. The 24-carat gold rate in Dubai today is Rs 1,49,590. Spot silver prices are down 2%. In India, the silver rate dipped 5.72% to Rs 2.38 lakh per kilogram. On COMEX, Silver prices traded 1.68% lower at $65.20 per troy ounce. Silver had surged to record highs in January amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, with heavy speculative buying pushing prices higher, but soon faced volatility. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers of shares worth Rs 1,025.20 crore. On the other hand, the Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were the net buyers of shares worth Rs 3,516.81 crore on June 18, 2026, according to the provisional data available on the NSE. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar’s value against a basket of six foreign currencies, was trading 0.04% lower at 100.79. The index evaluates the strength or weakness of the US dollar in comparison to major currencies. The basket contains currencies such as the British Pound, Euro, Swedish Krona, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, etc. The rupee appreciated 0.22% to close at 94.33 to the dollar on June 18. The Textiles sector’s stocks surged the most in Thursday’s trade, rising 5.8% in market capitalisation. Further, Asset Management Companies (AMCs) stocks were followed by the Leather sector stocks, which were further followed by the Electronics sector stocks. However, the Beverages – Non-Alcoholic sector stocks fell the most, dropping 2.3%.

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Indian Express

Jun 19, 2026, 05:04 AM

Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past Surprises Box Office with Strong Performance

Vikram Bhatt’s Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past has emerged as the surprise winner at the box office among the latest Hindi releases. Despite arriving alongside Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga and Kangana Ranaut’s Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, the horror franchise film has managed to race ahead. According to the latest figures, Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past has earned Rs 18.65 crore gross and Rs 15.90 crore net in India. In comparison, Main Vaapas Aaunga has collected Rs 14.60 crore gross and Rs 12.25 crore net so far. Speaking to Showsha, Bhatt said he was not surprised by the film’s performance, even though many believed it had not been promoted aggressively. He said the marketing strategy was always targeted towards the audience most likely to watch the film. “No, I’m not (surprised). Because the film was promoted. But it was promoted where we thought we should promote it. Fortunately or unfortunately, we didn’t have the budget to carpet bomb. So we targeted that audience that we knew would come for the film.” He added, “There were hoardings. But we didn’t go overboard because we knew this was a mass film. We knew that’s where we would get the ticket sales from. We were clear about that.” He continued, “Maybe the trade pundits missed the promotion because it wasn’t directed towards them. By that, I mean, it wasn’t directed towards the major metros, or at least not on that level.” Bhatt also said he always believed the Haunted franchise had a loyal audience. “Secondly, I knew that Haunted has an audience. And I knew that the audience would turn up. I didn’t know how big that audience was. I didn’t know if it was bigger than the other films that released with me. But I knew that certainly there is an audience to this. And they will come.” He added, “By God’s grace, they really turned up and made me a happy man.” ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan waived off Rs 42 lakh bill to help Deool Band 2; film is now a Rs 80 cr hit While the film’s box-office performance has led to headlines comparing it with Main Vaapas Aaunga and Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, Bhatt said he takes no pleasure in seeing other films underperform. “Doesn’t make me happy at all. Because I’ve been there too often. I don’t want anybody to have bad numbers.” He added, “Yes, I want myself to have good numbers. But not at the cost of someone else’s numbers. And I believe that there is enough space in the country to have two successful films running at the same time, or three. I’m just happy that my film did well.” The filmmaker also offered what he called an important takeaway from the film’s success. “What I need to learn from this is that be careful of franchise films. Because it can beat star-cast films. It is not meant to put down anybody. It’s just meant to keep that study and understanding as a note to myself. Don’t release your film with a franchise film, however big a star you may have.” Bhatt added, “Of course, one is not talking about Shah Rukh or Salman. But even if it’s a good star cast, be careful of the franchise film because it has a hidden audience. You don’t see them, but they come out of the woodworks to see the film.” The filmmaker also addressed criticism over the use of artificial intelligence in Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past, arguing that audiences often mistake real locations for AI-generated imagery once a narrative takes hold. “First of all, the funny thing is a lot of people have taken the real locations also as AI. I think once a narrative is set during the promotion of a film that this is AI, then even the real locations will be looked at as AI. Whatever was shot in real is also AI to them, which is funny.” Bhatt then defended his decision to use AI technology. “And say it is AI. Fine, we used AI. Are you coming to see a film and enjoy the story? Or do you think this is National Geographic and you’re coming to see the real locations?” He explained that AI allowed him to create a larger visual world within budget constraints. “I could not have made such a big film on the budget I had. So I used AI. And the people who are going to see the film are liking it.” Drawing comparisons with traditional filmmaking techniques, Bhatt said audiences rarely object when films use elaborate sets or CGI. “Historically, we’ve had films shot on a set. Most of the time I can make out the set and the audience can also make out the set. Why don’t you all say that the film was shot on a set and not in a real bungalow? “What’s the difference between AI and a set? It’s the same thing.” Referring to films such as Avatar and Star Wars, Bhatt argued that visual technology should not overshadow storytelling. “Haunted is about a world of Manikdhar. And I had to create a separate world. That’s why I used AI. It’s supposed to be dreamy. It is supposed to be eerie and strange. The entire village is stuck in time.” He joked, “Some people say the ghost is AI. How can I get a real ghost? Ghost is AI. Either special effects or CG or prosthetic. I can’t get a real ghost. Like, I have a shift at 9 tomorrow, you come.” Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past stars Mimoh Chakraborty, Chetna Pande, Praneet Bhatt.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Jun 19, 2026, 04:59 AM

Russia Hit by Drone Attack; Pakistan Deploys New Submarine

People in the Russian capital, Moscow, and many surrounding areas complained of black rain (black rain). According to locals, the rain was accompanied by soot and falling oil, covering cars, roads, and clothing. In fact, Ukraine carried out the largest-ever drone attack on the Russian capital, Moscow, on Thursday. More than 1,000 drones were sent towards Moscow, one of which targeted the city's Moscow Oil Refinery. The attack was followed by a massive fire at the refinery. The refinery is operated by Gazprom Neft, Russia's state-owned oil company, and supplies about 40 percent of Moscow's petrol and 50 percent of its diesel needs. The attack has raised environmental and health concerns. Pakistan has inducted its new Hangor-class submarine, built in China. This is the first time since the 1971 war and the creation of Bangladesh that Pakistan is attempting to establish a naval presence in the Bay of Bengal. Pakistan has signed a submarine deal with China in April 2015, the largest in Pakistan's history.

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AIR News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 04:59 AM

India Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms Across Multiple Regions

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall today at isolated places over Assam, Meghalaya, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected over Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal during the day. According to the Met Department, thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms are expected today over Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad and Uttarakhand. Places over Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Telangana, West Bengal and Sikkim are likely to witness thunderstorms and gusty winds today. IMD said thunder squalls are likely over parts of Bihar, Rajasthan, Odisha, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, heatwave conditions are expected to persist today over Maharashtra, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal, Konkan, Goa and Odisha are likely to experience hot and humid weather conditions today.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 04:54 AM

Chhattisgarh Braces for Thunderstorm and Rain as Monsoon Advances

According to meteorologists, thunderstorm, lightning and light to moderate rain are expected in different parts of the state for the next three days. Conditions are said to be favourable for the further advance of the southwest monsoon into other parts of Chhattisgarh in the next four to five days. According to the Meteorological Department, an active monsoon trough from Punjab to Bihar and a system from Vidarbha to south India is affecting the weather in the state. Due to this, thunderstorm and lightning are expected in many areas. The capital Raipur is expected to experience partly cloudy weather, thunderstorm and lightning on Friday. The maximum temperature of the city is expected to be around 39 ° C and the minimum temperature around 27 ° C. Rainfall was recorded in several districts of the state during the last 24 hours. Keshkal and Chhindgarh received 3cm each, while Kanker, Gandai, Jagdalpur, Badaipura, Rajgaon-Makonda, Kuadi-Kuadi recorded 2cm each.

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The Daily Guardian

Jun 19, 2026, 04:50 AM

From Small-Town India to AI Innovation: Neeraj Bansal's Journey to Building BeSpoke AI Stylist Without External Funding

From Small-Town India to AI Innovation: Neeraj Bansal, BeSpoke AI Stylist, Built a Startup Without External Funding In India’s startup ecosystem, founder stories often begin in elite institutions, venture capital circles, or major technology hubs. The journey behind BeSpoke AI Stylist follows a different path. The company’s founder grew up in Kailaras, a small town in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh, where career aspirations typically revolve around stable professions rather than entrepreneurship. Coming from a lower-income family, financial security was a priority from an early age, leading him toward Chartered Accountancy as a potential career path. After clearing CA Intermediate and completing internship training, he appeared to be on track for a conventional finance career. However, financial constraints eventually forced him to discontinue the program before qualification. The setback became a defining moment. Seeking employment opportunities, he relocated to Delhi and secured his first position as an accountant in Noida with a monthly salary of ₹14,000. While modest, the role provided both financial stability and exposure to a broader professional environment. Over the next few years, he focused on expanding his expertise beyond traditional accounting. By upskilling in US accounting, taxation, and finance, he transitioned into international accounting roles and earned US Certified Tax Preparer credentials issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). His career later extended into entrepreneurship, with involvement in businesses spanning IT consulting, staffing, recruitment, and software development across India and the United States. Yet the idea that would eventually become BeSpoke AI Stylist emerged from an unexpectedly common problem. In August 2024, while preparing for an event, he found himself facing a familiar dilemma: deciding what to wear despite having a wardrobe full of options. What initially appeared to be a personal inconvenience soon revealed itself as a widespread consumer challenge. Through conversations and research, he identified a recurring pattern. Many people owned substantial wardrobes but struggled to effectively utilize what they already had. The issue, he concluded, was not a lack of clothing but a lack of decision-making support. That insight led to the creation of BeSpoke AI Stylist, an artificial intelligence platform designed to help users make smarter wardrobe choices using the clothes they already own. The concept aligned with two growing trends: the increasing adoption of AI-powered personalization and rising consumer interest in sustainable fashion practices. However, transforming the idea into a business proved challenging. Like many first-time founders operating outside established startup networks, securing investment was difficult. Investor feedback was generally positive, but conversations frequently ended with requests for stronger traction and market validation before funding commitments could be considered. Rather than continuing to pursue external capital, the founder chose to self-finance the venture. He invested personal savings accumulated over years of professional work to develop and launch the product, accepting the risks associated with building without institutional backing. The decision reflects a broader shift occurring across India’s startup landscape, where a growing number of entrepreneurs are choosing to bootstrap businesses before approaching investors. Today, BeSpoke AI Stylist is focused on helping users optimize wardrobe utilization through AI-driven recommendations while promoting more mindful consumption habits. The platform’s growth remains in its early stages, but its origin story highlights a reality often overlooked in startup discussions. Not every venture begins with access to capital, influential networks, or a Silicon Valley-style ecosystem. Some emerge from ordinary experiences, practical challenges, and founders willing to invest their own resources to solve problems they believe are worth addressing. For the Neeraj Bansal founder of BeSpoke AI Stylist, the journey from a small town in Madhya Pradesh to launching an AI-driven startup was not defined by a single breakthrough. Instead, it was built through years of adaptation, continuous learning, and a willingness to pursue opportunities beyond conventional career paths. If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at pr.error.rectification@gmail.com. We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours. (The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 04:38 AM

Indian Tech Sector Plunges 6% After Accenture Cuts Revenue Guidance

It’s a bloodbath across the tech sector today. The Nifty IT Index has plunged 6%, and large-cap tech stocks like Infosys , Tech Mahindra , and Tata Consultancy Services are down as much as 7% in early trade. This is after Accenture , the global consulting firm, cuts its revenue guidance for the second time in a year. This led to a massive rout in the Indian tech stocks’ American Depository Receipts (ADRs) overnight as well. The Nifty IT index emerged as the biggest loser among all the sectoral indices, dropping 5.85%. Infosys was hurt the most, plunging 8%. It was followed by Mphasis , TCS, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies , LTM (LTI Mindtree), and many other IT stocks. The Accenture guidance is a big cue for the IT sector stocks in India , especially in terms of direction, as the company and its guidance are often seen as an indicator of global tech spending. Its financial updates and strategic shifts impact Indian tech companies. Accenture’s downward revision of its revenue growth guidance implies further growth moderation in the near term. According to Jefferies, “this may lead to further cuts to consensus earnings estimates for Indian IT and may also raise concerns on longer-term growth outlook and PE multiples.” Jefferies highlighted that the focus on M&A and new client additions may support growth, but given how “growth uncertainty persists amidst AI pressures and a volatile macro,” they remain ‘Underweight’. Pointing at the takeaways for the Indian IT sector, Jefferies listed three main factors to watch – -Further guidance cut likely: Jefferies believes that the “revised revenue growth guidance suggests further growth moderation which may lead to cuts to consensus expectations,” from the Indian IT sector’s perspective as well. -Long-term outlook: The other concern that Jefferies outlined is that the “soft growth on a low base is likely to raise concerns on a longer-term growth outlook and may drive further derating”. -Need to look at new growth drivers: Jefferies believes that “IT firms may have to look for new growth drivers (mid-market, M&A) to offset softness in traditional services growth.” After Accenture’s 18% fall, the valuation of the top 5 Indian IT companies comes into focus. According to their estimates, the top 5 IT firms are trading at a 70% premium to Accenture, “which poses further downside risks to the multiples of Indian IT firms,” Jefferies highlighted. Nuvama Institutional Equities also sees the Accenture guidance cut as “slightly negative for Indian IT.” Accenture’s guidance cut and soft bookings were also partly due to the Middle East conflict and pose risks for the Indian IT sector. According to Nuvama, “We continue to maintain that Gen AI will eventually lead to the expansion of TAM for Indian IT companies. Additionally, post the recent sharp correction, sector valuations have become highly attractive.” The consulting giant Accenture posted mixed results for the third quarter and lowered its growth expectations for the fiscal year. The IT firm follows a September-August financial year. This is the second time this year that Accenture tweaked its fiscal-year outlook. The company expects 3% to 4% revenue growth in local currency, down from March’s forecast of 3% to 5%. The chief executive officer of the company, Julie Sweets, said, “Accenture delivered a strong third quarter, with broad-based revenue growth, a 9% increase in EPS, and $8.2 billion returned to shareholders year-to-date. Demand for large-scale reinvention remains strong—104 quarterly client bookings of $100 million or more year-to-date, up 13%—and we are seeing more large-scale AI transformation programs while executing our strategy to capture new areas of growth.” “Our agreement to acquire a majority stake in Dragos and all of runZero and NetRise, leaders in OT Security, is the type of move that defines our strategy: it is expanding our addressable market, creating a new platform-led growth opportunity, and positioning Accenture at the centre of one of the most critical cybersecurity challenges our clients face,” the CEO added. J.P. Morgan maintained an ‘Overweight’ rating on Accenture following its Q3 results, which they describe as a mix of lighter-than-expected revenue and a significant shift toward inorganic growth. The company’s revenue reached only the midpoint of guidance rather than the typical “beat”, said the brokerage. However, adjusted EPS ($3.80) and operating margins (17%) both exceeded expectations. The company significantly increased its acquisition spending target to $9 billion (up from $5 billion), focusing on large deals in areas like Operational Technology security.

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 04:12 AM

Rain-Triggered Landslide Blocks Critical Route in Shimla, Disrupting Traffic

A rain-triggered landslide blocked the Dhalli-Sanjauli bypass on the outskirts of Shimla on Thursday afternoon, disrupting traffic on a crucial route interlinking the state capital with upper Himachal and several other popular tourist destinations. According to police, intermittent rainfall resulted in a landslide, depositing a large amount of debris on the road and forcing authorities to shut the bypass in both directions. Work is underway to clear the debris and restore the road to full functionality. The Dhalli-Sanjauli bypass interlinks Victory Tunnel with Dhalli while allowing motorists to avoid the congested Sanjauli stretch. The route is usually used by travellers heading towards Kinnaur and tourist destinations like Narkanda, Kurfi, Naldehra, Mashobra, and Tattapani. Police have advised commuters to avoid the bypass route for the time being and plan their journey through alternative routes. They have also warned that travellers may face inconvenience because of the closure. The landslide brought down mud, rocks and uprooted deodar trees after a portion of the hillside fell. As per a report by The Indian Express, heavy machinery and teams from the concerned departments were deployed to remove the debris and restore the traffic movement. The closure is likely to create inconvenience for commuters and residents who regularly use the bypass. As reported by The Indian Express, vehicles are being diverted to alternate routes, which could result in congestion in and around Shimla. Police have also asked commuters to follow directions issued by personnel deployed at the site to ensure smooth traffic management. A few minutes ago: A major landslide has occurred on the Dhalli–Sanjauli Bypass in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. pic.twitter.com/yMqude8cTo — Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) June 18, 2026 The landslide comes amid continuing rainfall activity across Himachal Pradesh. As per PTI, light to moderate rain was recorded in several parts of the state during the 24 hours ending Thursday evening. Rainfall, along with thunder and lightning, was reported from Shimla, Jubberhatti, Bhuntar, Sundernagar, Kurfi, Murari Devi, and Jot. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) local weather office, a wet spell is forecast in Himachal Pradesh till June 24. The Shimla Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for hail, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph in parts of Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts on Friday. A warning for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph in places across 10 districts of the state on Saturday and Sunday. The weather department has also predicted fairly widespread rainfall over Himachal Pradesh on June 20 and 21. In its latest Nowcast-HP weather bulletin, the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, said light rain is expected at isolated places in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu, Kangra, and Shimla districts during the 12-hour period ending 9 am on June 19.

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The Daily Guardian

Jun 19, 2026, 04:10 AM

Bunnie Xo Opens Up About Non-Mutual Divorce From Husband Jelly Roll

Washington DC [US], June 19 (ANI): Podcast host Bunnie Xo has opened up about her split from husband Jelly Roll, revealing that the decision to divorce was “not mutual” and stemmed from months of communication struggles within their marriage, according to E! News. Speaking on the recent episode of her ‘Dumb Blonde’ podcast, Bunnie Xo, whose real name is Alisa DeFord, reflected on the events that led to the end of her relationship with the country music star. According to Bunnie, tensions had been building for nearly a year as the couple gradually stopped being open with one another. She recalled that an argument on Mother’s Day, May 10, became a turning point in their relationship. “On Mother’s Day we had a little bit of an argument, which I don’t think the details are necessary,” Bunnie said. “I was so fed up and so tired that I just looked at him and I said, ‘Well, then file the… divorce papers.'” She explained that mentioning divorce had always been a boundary in their relationship. “And in our relationship that is the one cardinal thing that you don’t say,” she said. “Even though my husband has said it numerous times ’cause he’s the runner.” Bunnie added that her words carried particular significance because she is “not the type of person who says what I don’t mean.” Following the argument, she packed a bag, left their home and did not speak to Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, for about a week. “During that, he was so mad and we were so emotional that he ended up doing exactly what I told him to do and filing the divorce papers,” she said. Reflecting on the aftermath, Bunnie admitted she was caught off guard by the filing. “Was I blindsided? And was this divorce mutual? No, it was not mutual,” she said. “Even though I told him to file the divorce papers, I was speaking out of anger and just frustration,”according to E! News. Despite the difficult circumstances, Bunnie believes the separation prompted important conversations between them. “Was it necessary for us to have a wakeup call and to actually start having these real conversations? Absolutely,” she said. The 46-year-old also revealed that she lost 15 pounds and began hormone replacement therapy and counseling after the divorce papers were filed. Bunnie said she initially hoped the couple could save their marriage through therapy. “He’s my best friend. I don’t care how..up our relationship was, which it wasn’t that… up. I don’t care how much we didn’t communicate or how things shook out. I was riding with this… till the wheels fell off,” she said. “I didn’t care. I felt like we deserved a chance to go to therapy and figure..out.” However, she acknowledged that Jelly Roll did not share that view. “He didn’t feel that way and I respect it,” Bunnie said. “It took me a month and a half now to respect that. But I’m so happy. So, so, so happy.” The podcast host also praised the way the pair had handled the divorce process, saying they were ending their marriage on positive terms and had settled matters quickly. “I joke around with him, I’m like, ‘Well, you didn’t take care of me in the marriage, but you’re taking care of me in the divorce,'” she said with a laugh. Jelly Roll, 41, is the father of daughter Bailee Ann, 18, and son Noah, 9, from previous relationships. Despite their separation, Bunnie revealed that the former couple still plans to expand their family together. “You guys are going to be shocked to hear this, but we’re still having a baby,” she said. “We have been the most unconventional couple that you guys have ever encountered,” according to E! News. (ANI) Source The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.

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Aaj Tak

Jun 19, 2026, 04:01 AM

Indian Monsoon Slows Down, Records Significant Rain Deficit

In the country, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala on 4 June, but after that its speed suddenly slowed down. Rainfall was expected in many areas until mid-June, but the situation is the opposite. The monsoon has stopped in the southern part of Maharashtra. According to the data of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), from 4 June to 18 June, a 41% rain deficit has been recorded across the country. According to the latest update of the IMD, the country has received only 42.6 mm of rain in this period, while the normal rainfall should have been 72.2 mm. According to the regional information of the Meteorological Department, there is a 67% rain deficit in central India. There is a 42% rain deficit in eastern and northeastern India, 22% in the southern peninsula, and 6% in northwest India. The Meteorological Department said that for the last few days, the monsoon has not advanced in the rest of Maharashtra. The monsoon has stopped for several days in areas like Konkan and central Maharashtra. (IMD) said that the monsoon is not strong in the Arabian Sea, which usually brings strong winds.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 03:59 AM

Sunil Grover's Simplicity and Humility Shine Through

Sunil Grover is loved by the audience for his acting and comedy. Whichever character he is, he completely imbibes it. Apart from his talent, Sunil is also known for his simplicity. Once again, he has a similar style, where he was seen relaxing on the banks of the ghat in a very simple way.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 03:52 AM

Haryana and NCR Weather to See Further Changes in June

Meteorologist Dr. Chandramohan said that there is a continuous change in the weather in Haryana, NCR. Pre-monsoon activities are continuously going on due to which day and night temperatures are fluctuating in the entire region. The effect of the western disturbance has been felt in the northern districts of Haryana, Panchkula, Ambala, Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra, western parts of Haryana, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Hisar, Bhiwani, Charkhi-Dadri, Mahendragarh, Jhajjar, Rohtak, Gurugram. Advertisement With another new western disturbance becoming active on the night of 21st June, June will once again see a change in weather and pre-monsoon activities. Dr. Chandramohan said that Sirsa recorded 3, Charkhi Dadri 8, Adampur area of Hisar recorded 7. 5 mm rainfall. Sonipat recorded maximum day temperature of 41. 3, Ambala 40. 6, Sirsa 40. 4 in May, Sirsa 39. 1 in Hisar.

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Indian Express

Jun 19, 2026, 03:44 AM

Karan Kundrra Defends Decision to Seek Advice from Parents on Desi Bling

Karan Kundrra has responded to the criticism he faced after an episode of Desi Bling showed him discussing his relationship with Tejasswi Prakash with friend Dyuti Parruck and later seeking his parents’ perspective before taking the next step in their relationship. The scene sparked a major argument between Karan and Tejasswi on the Netflix reality show after Dyuti informed her that Karan had spoken to his parents about her. The episode also triggered debate on social media, with some viewers questioning why Karan felt the need to consult his parents about marriage despite being in a relationship with Tejasswi for nearly five years. Now, in an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Karan has addressed the controversy and defended his decision to seek advice from both friends and family. Explaining why Tejasswi was initially upset, Karan said it was an unusual situation for their relationship. “This happened for the first time, so Tejasswi found it strange. But I explained to her that, for the first time, I had friends I could actually ask for advice.” The actor questioned why people were surprised that he sought his parents’ opinion on a major life decision. “If you won’t ask your parents, if you won’t ask your brothers, then who will you ask? Please explain that to me. If you want a third-person perspective, who are you supposed to turn to?” Karan also had a strong response for those who criticised him online. “To everyone saying that I shouldn’t have asked my parents, laanat hai tum pe (shame on you). If you expect your boyfriend or future husband to stop caring about what his parents think or what their perspective is, shame on you. They are your parents. They raised you. Just because someone new enters your life doesn’t mean you forget their place and importance.” He continued, “ Jo log mereko comment kar rahe hain na ki you should not talk to your parents, bhai kon si duniya mein paida hue ho? Hindustan mein paida hue ho ki kahi Kardashians ke ghar paida hue ho tumlog (People commenting that I shouldn’t talk to my parents — what world are you living in? Were you born in India or in the Kardashians’ house?) I don’t know where people are taking their reference points from.” Stressing the importance of family in his life, Karan added, “I am an Indian. I will always respect my parents, and their advice means the world to me. Go to hell.” ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan waived off Rs 42 lakh bill to help Deool Band 2; film is now a Rs 80 cr hit Karan also addressed the question he is most frequently asked by fans — why he and Tejasswi have not tied the knot yet despite being together for several years. According to the actor, the issue is not whether they will get married, but when. “It is not a question of why; it is a question of when.” Karan then said that as he proposed to Tejasswi during the filming of Desi Bling, and getting married before the show’s release would have affected the impact of that storyline. “We shot Desi Bling, and I proposed to Teju towards the end of the show. If I had gotten married before that episode aired, the proposal would have looked strange.” He added that neither of them expected the show to take a year to release. “We didn’t know it would take a year for the show to come out. We are also professional artists. We had signed up for the show, and if the engagement and proposal were part of the story, all of that would have fallen short if we had gotten married before the show’s release.” Tejasswi Prakash and Karan Kundrra have been together since 2021 after meeting on Salman Khan’s reality show Bigg Boss 15. Their friendship on the show blossomed into a relationship, and they soon became one of the most popular couples among viewers, earning the nickname “TejRan.” The couple recently gave fans a closer look at their relationship through Desi Bling, where their arguments and emotional moments sparked speculation about a possible breakup. However, Karan put those rumours to rest in the show’s final episode when he proposed to Tejasswi in a romantic setup in Dubai. The couple have not yet announced a wedding date.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 03:40 AM

Indian Police Seize 500 kg of Ganja Worth Rs 2.5 Crore in Inter-State Operation

HYDERABAD: The EAGLE Force seized 500 kg of ganja worth an estimated Rs 2.5 crore following an interstate operation in Odisha late on Wednesday. Officials said EAGLE maintains surveillance in source regions supplying ganja to Telangana. Acting on credible information, an EAGLE patrol team led by SI K Ravi Prasad tracked a Bolero vehicle from Balimela to Jeypore for nearly 80 km. After a prolonged chase, the team intercepted the vehicle in a forested area. However, the driver managed to escape under the cover of darkness and difficult terrain. Police recovered 140 packets of ganja, including 90 packets weighing 5 kg each and 25 packets weighing 2 kg each, totalling 500 kg. The contraband was handed over to Koraput district police for further investigation. According to vehicle registration records, the Bolero is registered in the name of Amir Ali Khan, a resident of Nabarangapur district in Odisha.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 03:26 AM

Odisha May Face Prolonged Dry Spell as Monsoon Slows Down

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha may have to wait longer for widespread rains as the southwest monsoon has gone into a hiatus after its onset on June 12 and the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) extended-range outlook shows little prospect of significant rainfall till July 2. With the monsoon’s advance remaining stuck since June 15, the state has already recorded a 48 per cent rainfall deficit during June 11-17. Weather experts attributed the slowdown to the absence of any significant low-pressure area (LPA) over the Bay of Bengal, a key driver of monsoon progression over eastern India. Usually, the rain-bearing system covers the entire state within four to five days of onset. However, this year, the advance has remained sluggish not only over Odisha but across the country, with both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches of the monsoon currently experiencing a weak phase. An IMD official said low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal act as catalysts for monsoon advancement by strengthening monsoon winds, enhancing moisture transport and helping pull the monsoon current further north. “When a low-pressure area forms, it strengthens both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches of the monsoon. This year, no meaningful system developed at the right time, resulting in weaker monsoon progression across the country, including Odisha,” the official said. The IMD’s extended-range forecast for the periods June 19-25 and June 26-July 2 does not indicate widespread rainfall activity over the state, raising concerns over moisture availability during the crucial early phase of the kharif season.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 03:20 AM

Kithaganur Lake Rejuvenation Boosts Ecological Health and Water Security in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: The 25-acre Kithaganur lake in East Bengaluru, which had long suffered from silt accumulation, sewage inflow, encroachments and blocked feeder channels, has now been rejuvenated, leading to a significant improvement in its ecological health and water-storage capacity. The restoration has increased the lake’s water-holding capacity by 22%, benefiting more than 24,000 residents in surrounding localities. The project involved scientific de-silting, strengthening and fencing of lake boundaries, clearing feeder channels, biodiversity enhancement measures and community engagement activities aimed at ensuring long-term conservation of the water body. The lake, which had gradually lost much of its capacity due to years of neglect and urban pressure, now supports nearly 65 species of flora and fauna. Environmental experts associated with the project estimate that the restored ecosystem will contribute close to nine tonnes of carbon sequestration annually, while also improving groundwater recharge and local biodiversity. The rejuvenated lake was formally handed over to the gram panchayat on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day. Speaking at the event, Mahadevpura MLA Manjula Arvind Limbavali said lake restoration should be followed by sustained efforts to protect the ecosystem and prevent it from slipping back into a degraded state. She stressed the need for active participation from local authorities, waste management teams and residents in safeguarding the lake. The restoration was undertaken under the Wake the Lake initiative, a programme focused on reviving Bengaluru’s rapidly shrinking and polluted water bodies. The restoration was undertaken through a collaborative effort involving Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, United Way Bengaluru, local authorities and community stakeholders. Stakeholders involved in the project said the revival of Kithaganur Lake demonstrates how scientific restoration and community participation can help improve urban water security while restoring ecological balance in the city.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 03:06 AM

Punjab Weather Alert Issued for Multiple Districts

The weather department has issued an alert for Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Moga, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Barnala, Mansa, Sangrur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar, Patiala and Mohali.

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 02:57 AM

India's Power Sector Faces Another Year of High Demand Pressure

India’s power sector could be headed for another year of weather-driven demand pressure, with electricity consumption projected to rise 6-7% year-on-year to 1,810-1,830 billion units (BU) in FY27, after a severe heatwave pushed peak power demand to a record 271 GW in May, according to a Crisil Intelligence report. “Power demand is expected to increase 6-7% on-year in fiscal 2027 to 1,810-1,830 BU, driven by higher temperatures and lower rainfall due to the expected El Niño effect from July 2026, resulting in a rise in cooling demand,” the report said. The forecast comes after India recorded its highest-ever peak power demand of 271 GW in May, nearly 10% higher than the previous fiscal’s peak of 245 GW, as prolonged heatwave conditions boosted cooling requirements across large parts of the country. “May saw a peak power demand of 271 GW, ~10% higher than the 245 GW peak in fiscal 2026. This surge is attributed to increased cooling demand due to severe and prolonged heatwaves,” Crisil said. Electricity demand rose 11.2% year-on-year to 165 BU in May, driven by above-normal temperatures across northern, northwestern, western and central India. Temperatures remained 1-4 degrees Celsius above normal, with Uttar Pradesh’s Banda touching 48.3°C on May 12, among the highest readings recorded during the month. The report noted that manufacturing activity also supported electricity consumption, with the Manufacturing PMI rising to 55.0 in May from 54.7 in April. Industrial and commercial consumers account for nearly half of India’s total electricity demand. For the first two months of FY27, electricity demand increased 7.6% year-on-year, compared with a 1.2% decline during the corresponding period of the previous fiscal, indicating a sharp turnaround in consumption trends. The rise in demand translated into higher power generation across all major fuel sources. Total generation increased nearly 12% year-on-year to 178 BU in May, with renewable energy, coal, hydro and nuclear power all registering growth. “Renewable energy generation increased around 20% on-year in May, supported by capacity additions during the first two months of the fiscal,” the report said. India added 7.4 GW of renewable energy capacity, including small hydro, during April-May, helping renewable generation expand at a faster pace than overall demand growth. However, coal continued to remain the backbone of the power system. Coal-fired generation rose 12% year-on-year and accounted for 68.25% of total generation in May, broadly in line with the FY26 average of 68.36%. “Coal-based generation increased 12% on-year, accounting for 68.25% of total generation in May 2026,” Crisil noted, highlighting the continued dependence on thermal power to manage demand spikes and grid stability. The pressure was also visible in short-term power markets. Real-time market (RTM) volumes increased 15.9% year-on-year to 5,529 million units (MU) from 4,770 MU a year ago, while the average market clearing price rose 21.1% to ₹4.16 per unit. Day-ahead market prices climbed 18.3% to ₹4.8 per unit. Coal inventories at thermal power stations declined as utilities ramped up generation. Stocks fell to 49 million tonnes (MT) at the end of May from 60 MT a year earlier, while coal inventory dropped to 16 days from 21 days. Daily coal requirements increased to 3.10 MT from 2.90 MT, even as dispatches to power plants rose 1.22% year-on-year to around 74 MT. The report said the expected emergence of El Niño conditions from July could keep electricity demand highly weather-sensitive through FY27, with cooling requirements continuing to drive consumption and placing sustained pressure on generation, fuel supplies and power markets.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Jun 19, 2026, 02:56 AM

Pre-Monsoon Rains Hit Several States in India; Temperatures Remain High

The country is experiencing pre-monsoon rains in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and Delhi. The monsoon has reached 19 states in 15 days after hitting Kerala on June 4. The monsoon has been stuck on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh for the past 5 days. Hissar in Haryana received heavy rain on Thursday. Several vehicles were hit by trees. There were hailstorms in Sirsa. Six districts, including Indore-Guna in MP, received hailstorms. Temperatures in seven states, including UP-Rajasthan, are above 40 ° C despite the pre-monsoon being active. On Thursday, the highest temperature in the country was recorded in Banda, UP. According to data till June 18, the worst situation was in Maharashtra, which received 78% less rainfall than normal, followed by 79% less rainfall in Gujarat. The Meteorological Department in Rajasthan has issued an alert in 30 districts, including Churu, Sriganganagar, Hanuman, and Jhunjhunjhunu, for the third consecutive monsoon season in 2024, despite a long break from normal.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 02:48 AM

Chaos Erupts as Chhattisgarh's Abujhmad Forests Open Up After Maoist Era

Thousands of trees are being felled in the dense forests of Abujhmad in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur as the administration feels helpless because the region still falls under the ‘unsurveyed area’ category. For decades, the forested terrain remained insulated due to the Maoists’ dominance. Now for the first time, a formal land revenue survey is being conducted in this ‘unsurveyed’ region to establish land records. The district administration admitted that trees are being felled as villagers have been practising shifting cultivation on a large scale. However, local sources revealed that the area, now open for the first time after the Maoists were eliminated, has triggered a chaotic race among people to claim ownership of forest lands. “Abujhmad has remained an unsurveyed territory since Independence. Consequently, the forest department lacks a regular regulatory setup or permanent field staff stationed within the area. Revenue department is executing a land survey,” Narayanpur DFO Venkatesh M G told this newspaper. After the liberation of this region from Maoist influence, administrative access has opened up. “We are closely monitoring the situation. Villagers stated they have been practising shifting cultivation, which results in the felling of trees. No outsiders will be allowed to grab or encroach forest land,” said Narayanpur collector Namrata Jain. Environmentalists warned of devastating impact on ecology. “Abujhmad spans over 4,000 sq km and is recognised as a vital carbon sink and biodiversity hotspot. It is a habitat for rare wildlife,” said Nitin Singhvi, an environmentalist.

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NorthEast Now

Jun 19, 2026, 02:45 AM

Shillong Airport Expansion Delayed Due to Pending Safety Clearances

Work on the long-awaited expansion of Shillong Airport remains stuck despite key approvals and the award of a construction contract, with pending aviation safety clearances preventing the project from moving to the execution stage. The issue came under scrutiny in the Meghalaya High Court , where a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W Diengdoh noted that construction was expected to begin about 45 days ago. However, the required safety approval has yet to be issued, delaying the start of on-ground activities. The Bench observed that the clearance is essential before machinery and construction equipment can be deployed at the site. It cautioned that any prolonged delay could affect both the completion schedule and the overall cost of the project, ultimately increasing the financial burden on the public. The airport modernisation project is aimed at improving connectivity to Meghalaya and reducing dependence on the road journey to Guwahati. Although environmental permission was granted in March and the construction contract was awarded soon after, work has not commenced so far. During the proceedings, Advocate General A. Kumar informed the court that the land exchange process with defence authorities has been completed, removing a major obstacle to the planned runway expansion. The court was also informed by Deputy Solicitor General of India Dr Mozika that technical and safety-related documents are still under review by the Airports Authority of India headquarters. Once that process is completed, the papers will be forwarded to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for examination and approval. The project involves increasing the runway length, expanding terminal infrastructure and developing an additional apron for aircraft operations. Under the terms of the contract awarded to M/s KCC Buildcon Pvt. Ltd., the work is to be completed within 18 months. The timeline includes a provision for weather-related disruptions during Meghalaya’s monsoon period. Seeking progress on the matter, the High Court asked the Deputy Solicitor General to provide an update at the next hearing regarding the status of the pending approvals. The court also called for quicker processing of the remaining clearances to avoid further setbacks to the project.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 02:44 AM

India Expected to Receive Less Than 90% of Average Rainfall

According to Atul Kumar Singh, a scientist with the regional meteorological department, the state is likely to receive less than 90 per cent of the average rainfall this time.

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ABP News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 02:43 AM

Environmental Crisis Unfolds at Jaswantpura Village: Pond Water Declared Unsafe

A serious environmental and public health crisis has emerged over the Dharma pond at Jaswantpura in Gram Panchayat Baira on the National Highway in Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. Baneda Sub-Divisional Officer Babu Lal has imposed prohibitory orders in the entire area as a precautionary measure after the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) investigation report declared the pond water unsafe for human and animal consumption. Instructions have been issued to people to strictly follow the prohibitory orders by pasting copies of the order outside tea stalls, chaupals and grocery shops and by making announcements from mikes in the village. Jaswantpura village has a settlement of more than 300 houses. A large number of fish, aquatic creatures, birds and animals started dying in the Dharma pond of Jaswantpura village in the past few days. Concern was raised among the villagers after the death of thousands of fish. Dead fish were seen floating on the surface of the pond, followed by a letter from the local health department.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 02:36 AM

Andhra Pradesh Ranks Fifth Nationally in Land Restoration and Carbon Sequestration Efforts

VIJAYAWADA: AP has ranked fifth among States in both the extent of land brought under restoration and carbon sequestration achieved through restoration efforts, according to India’s Second Progress Report on the Bonn Challenge: 2011-2020 Assessment of Progress in Restoration Efforts Across the States and Union Territories, released by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. The report states that 1.61 million hectares of land in the State had been brought under restoration between 2011 and 2020. Data submitted by the State Forest Department show that a total of 16,12,934 hectares were restored during the period, while the Department of Land Resources (DoLR) reported an additional 655 hectares restored between 2018 and 2020. The State also secured the fifth position nationally in carbon sequestration, with restoration activities contributing an estimated 19.79 million tonnes of carbon (tC) after accounting for mortality. Carbon sequestration was estimated using the IPCC Good Practice Guidance for Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) methodology. Without factoring in mortality, the sequestration was estimated at 26.39 million tonnes of carbon. In carbon dioxide equivalent terms, restoration efforts are estimated to have sequestered 72.64 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent after accounting for mortality. The report highlights steady progress in restoration activities across AP during the assessment period. The area brought under restoration increased from 6,981 hectares in 2011-12 to 198,920 hectares in 2019-20, with the highest annual restoration of 312,186 hectares recorded in 2018-19.

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The Daily Guardian

Jun 19, 2026, 02:35 AM

Signify Reaffirms Commitment to Creating Safer and Sustainable Rural Communities through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR Initiative

NewsVoir New Delhi [India], June 18: In line with its #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision, Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, reaffirmed its commitment to creating safer, resilient, and sustainable rural communities through its flagship CSR initiative Signify Har Gaon Roshan at the Human-Animal Conflict: Challenges and Future Strategy event, Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh. The event was graced by Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), and Shri K. P. Malik, Hon’ble Minister of State, Forest, Environment and Zoological Parks Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Government of Uttar Pradesh, senior policymakers, forest officials, members of the Tharu tribal community and conservation experts were also present to address challenges faced by communities residing in forest fringe areas where a host of reasons increase the vulnerability to human-wildlife encounters. Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative updates shared during the event: – Terai region impact: Successfully impacted over 400 forest fringe villages, since 2019 – Wider Footprint: Installed over 9000 LED streetlights across 400 villages in Uttar Pradesh (in and around Pilibhit, Dudhwa, Amangarh Tiger Reserves, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagina, Chitrakoot, and Bahraich) – Future Expansion: Signify presented a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the installation of 1500 additional LED streetlights across 67 villages with high rate of human-wildlife conflict in the Katarniaghat landscape. – Coffee Table book launch: focused on the impact of the recent project in Dudhwa National Park through real stories, illustrating how access to light has helped create safer public spaces and enhance community resilience. Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, highlighted the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in forest landscapes and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts involving government departments, experts, civil society organizations, CSR initiatives and local communities to develop practical and sustainable solutions. He commended Signify for its contribution to community safety and rural development through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative and congratulated the organization for expanding its support to forest fringe communities across Uttar Pradesh. Through Har Gaon Roshan, Signify continues to support rural communities through innovative lighting solutions that improve safety, strengthen community resilience, and contribute to sustainable development outcomes, working in partnership with BharatCares. About Signify Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating. News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.) (The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)

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Aaj Tak

Jun 19, 2026, 02:32 AM

India's Southwest Monsoon Stalls, Leaving 66% of Country Experiencing Rain Deficits or Drought

The southwest monsoon has almost stopped in the country at this time. According to meteorologists, the northern limit of the monsoon has remained stable at both ends. The western end is stuck at Harnai in Maharashtra since June 8, while the eastern border is limited to Muzaffarpur in Bihar. There has been no significant expansion of the monsoon beyond this. According to Skymet, about 66 percent of the country is either rain-deficient or experiencing severe drought conditions. The greatest impact is seen in central India, where the rain deficit has reached 70 to 80 percent. All meteorological subdivisions of the central region have recorded heavy monsoon deficits. Due to western disturbances and upper atmospheric systems, some periodic rains have been occurring in northwest India, which has led to a relatively better situation there. However, eastern Uttar Pradesh is also now beginning to experience a rain deficit. According to experts, the monsoon deficit in the month of June can be 50 percent directly due to the arrival of the kharif season. This can become a concern for farmers and the agricultural sector.

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Indian Express

Jun 19, 2026, 02:31 AM

Dilip Kumar's Secret Second Marriage: A Tale of Heartbreak and Regret

Dilip Kumar was 44 when he married 22-year-old Saira Bano in 1966. But after 16 years of their marriage, Dilip married Asma Rehman in 1982. He never told Saira about Asma, and she learnt about his second wife from the newspapers, which, naturally, left her shocked. Soon after marrying Asma, Dilip realised the gravity of his mistake, and divorced her. Meanwhile, Dilip was under intense scrutiny by the press, and Asma also bore the brunt of the situation. After the divorce, she moved to Canada as she just could not have any privacy here. In an interview back in 1983, shared by the YouTube channel ITMB Shows, Asma spoke about moving to Vancouver, Canada, after her marriage with Dilip ended. When asked about the constant intrusion and speculation about her marriage with the Bollywood star, she said, “What do I do? Even I don’t like it but what can one do about it? Even in India, the media was after my life and I thought it will be more peaceful in Vancouver but it feels like I am not meant to have peace.” She then added, “I feel there is a total lack of privacy no matter where I go. I really don’t like it.” ALSO READ | Dilip Kumar’s sisters ‘orchestrated’ his second marriage to drive Saira Banu away; created ‘hostile environment’ for her In the same chat, she said that she moved to Canada because she already had family there. But the primary reason behind her move was an attempt to get away from the spotlight. “It was because of the media which was hounding me. I just wanted to get away from it but I just can’t,” she said. This was the era of tabloids and the relationship between her and Dilip Kumar was all anyone could talk about, especially since he was a married man. Asma claimed that 95 percent of the things written about their relationship were fabricated. “95 percent of the things that were written about me were false,” she said. She also claimed that the conversations between her and Dilip were private, but people had a wild imagination. “Conversations that take place between two people, which are personal and private in nature, how can anyone know about them? But these people’s imagination is just so wild that they just make up stories,” she said. Years after Asma opened up about this chapter of her life, Dilip Kumar discussed this incident in his memoir Dilip Kumar: The Substance and the Shadow. He shared that he first met Asma through his sisters in Hyderabad during a cricket match. He soon started noticing that she would show up almost everywhere he went, as if someone had told her about his itinerary. But, regardless, he did end up marrying her, and was deeply aware how he had hurt Saira in the process. “I can never forget or forgive myself for the hurt I caused to Saira and the shattering of the unshakeable faith she had in me,” he wrote and added, “Saira stood by me when I admitted the grave mistake and asked her to give me some time to undo the wrong through proper legal processes and restore the sanctity of our marriage of sixteen years. I requested Saira to give me some time to sort it all out.” Dilip also signed a “letter of commitment” to Saira as he wanted to restore the promise he once made to her parents, that he wouldn’t engage in a second marriage. He believed that this episode “strengthened our closeness and our emotional dependence on each other.” ALSO READ | Raj Kapoor followed Nargis to Berlin after break up, offered her money ‘after exploiting’ her It was speculated that Dilip Kumar’s sisters wanted him to get married to Asma, because they did not particularly like Saira. Udaytara Nayar, who wrote Dilip’s memoir, previously told City Express, “There are many versions about it but the truth is that the whole thing was orchestrated by Dilip Sahab’s two sisters. They had never liked Saira and the book reveals how they treated her when she came into Sahab’s life as a wife. They created circumstances where Sahab was trapped and this second marriage was their way of getting back at Saira.” When the news about Dilip’s marriage with Asma came out in the press, it was speculated that Dilip had married again because he wanted to have children, but had none with Saira. Dilip later revealed that he and Saira lost a baby boy in 1972, in the eighth month of pregnancy. Dilip and Saira were married until his death in 2021.

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ABP News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 02:29 AM

Uttar Pradesh Hit by Severe Heat Wave Alert as Temperatures Soar

The mercury has once again started rising in Uttar Pradesh. Due to the strong sunshine and humid heat, it has become difficult to get out of the house. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert of severe heat wave in more than 26 districts of the state including Prayagraj-Varanasi even today. Although there may be sporadic drizzle in some districts, it will not give relief from the heat to the people. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning of dry weather today in Meerut, Moradabad, Rampur, Sambhal, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Badaun Lakhimpur Kheri, Bahraich, Shravasti in western UP. The sky in these districts is clear and there will be bright sunshine. Along with this, there is a warning of heat wave in some places. The maximum temperature in these districts is expected to be 38-42 degrees. While Sangam City Prayagraj is also on fire. Prayagraj has been the hottest district in the state in the last 24 hours, Jaunpur has crossed 45 degrees.

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The Moscow Times

Jun 19, 2026, 02:20 AM

Tamil Nadu Revokes Environmental Clearance for Brigade's 'Brigade Morgan Heights' Project in Chennai

CHENNAI: In a major setback to Chennai-based builder Brigade Enterprises Limited, which is carrying out a huge residential project named ‘Brigade Morgan Heights’ near Pallikaranai, the Tamil Nadu State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) has revoked the environmental clearance (EC) accorded to the company in January 2025. The decision to revoke was taken during a meeting of the authority on May 8. As per the minutes of meeting, the EC has been revoked based on a letter from Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority (TNSWA). In the letter to SEIAA on April 16, the TNSWA alleged that the company had commenced the construction works without obtaining permission from the wetland authority, one of the conditions imposed while according clearance for the project. Earlier, Arappor Iyakkam, an anti-graft forum, had alleged that the previous government and the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) issued the approvals, including building plan permission, by violating Ramsar norms. The organisation also demanded the government to take steps to revoke building plan permission for the project that covers 14.7 acres with 1,250 apartments and a total built up area of 31.26 lakh sqft. It was alleged that the planning authority issued plan approval within days after the SEIAA accorded the EC.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 02:12 AM

Solid-State Cooling Technology Offers Eco-Friendly Alternative to Traditional Air Conditioning

Now almost all air conditioners work with refrigerant gas and compressors, but solid-state cooling systems have a completely different approach. This technique does not involve converting gas into a liquid and then back into a gas. Instead, certain solids are subjected to electric fields, magnetic fields, or mechanical pressure, which changes their temperature and causes cooling. AdvertisementSolid-state cooling techniques work on caloric effects. And simply put, when external pressure or fields are applied to certain solid materials, they heat or cool. Advertisement scientists are developing cooling systems using this property. No refrigerant gas is needed, and the whole system can be simplified. The ACs that people are using at the moment contain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), gases that are harmful to our environment. These gases can harm the Earth's solid-state cooling technology many times more than carbon dioxide. These gases can harm the Earth's environment.

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Dainik Jagran

Jun 19, 2026, 02:07 AM

Bihar Expects Reduced Rainfall, Sweltering Temperatures as Monsoon Weakens

Due to the weakening of the monsoon in the state, many districts including Patna will experience a decrease in rainfall. The state is likely to receive less than normal rainfall during the next seven days. Conditions are becoming favourable for further advancement of the monsoon into other parts of the state during the next four to five days. According to the Meteorological Center Patna, the maximum temperature of most parts of the state is expected to be 38 to 42 ° C during the five days. Thunderstorm with lightning and light rain are predicted in 20 districts including Patna during the next 24 hours. The wind speed will be 50-60 kmph in these places. An orange alert has been issued for heavy rainfall in Begusarai, Lakhisarai and Munger of the state. The maximum temperature of 16 districts including Patna fell on Thursday. Patna remained the hottest place in the state with a maximum temperature of 40.3 ° C and 42.5 ° C.

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DNA Hindi

Jun 19, 2026, 01:47 AM

Monsoon Delays Bring Relief in Some Areas, Heat Wave Continues Elsewhere

What will be the weather in Delhi NCR today. Thunderstorm and rain may occur in these districts from Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Monsoon is running very late, when will it pick up speed. Weather will be from Bihar to Rajasthan. People from Delhi NCR to Uttarakhand can get relief from heat and heat today. According to the Meteorological Department, today there is a possibility of rain with thunderstorm in Noida, Ghaziabad to Faridabad areas of Delhi NCR. There may be heavy rain in many districts including Dehradun in Uttarakhand. However, people from Bihar to Rajasthan will still face the heat. There will be scorching sun and hot winds. So it is very important to avoid them. Let's know the weather condition. Not only the common people are troubled due to the delay in the monsoon. Its delay is also hurting the farmers. Due to its delay, many crops are badly affected. The monsoon was stopped at one place for the last 2 weeks, which is now moving slowly and according to the weather department, the temperature of the monsoon is increasing very slowly.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 01:42 AM

NCR's Environmental Regulations: Burdensome or Beneficial?

Being part of the NCR, they face stringent environmental regulations, Grap restrictions, ban on second-hand vehicles, control on construction activities, and stricter standards for industries. Farmers are also under additional pressure of stubble management. It is natural to question why the burden of restrictions should be borne when the expected benefits are not being realised. But the future of a region is not decided by the present inconveniences alone. The government has probably retained the existing boundaries of the NCR with this broad thinking. Haryana's 25,327 sq km area falls in the Ad NCR region. It is 46 per cent of the entire NCR. In the NCR region of Uttar Pradesh, after Noida, Greater Noida, the metro has reached Sahibabad but only Gurugram and Faridabad districts of Haryana are not fully covered. The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut rail project from Delhi to Karnal is pending since 2020. Presently, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor is on priority. The rapid rail projects from Meerut to Ghaziabad are now operational in parts of Haryana.

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Dainik Jagran

Jun 19, 2026, 01:37 AM

IMD Issues High Alert for Heavy Rain, Hail, and Thunderstorms Across 11 States

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for heavy rain, hail, and thunderstorms in 11 states of the country, including the national capital Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, within the next 15 hours. According to the Meteorological Department, destructive winds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour are expected during this period, which is expected to cause damage to life and property. According to meteorologists, the monsoon has been stuck in one place for the past two weeks, causing dry winds and severe heat in the plains. However, now a strong weather system has been formed due to moist winds coming from the Bay of Bengal and the activation of a new western disturbance. This is why the weather has suddenly turned in large parts of northern and central India. The IMD has warned that along with the rains, the thunderstorms and lightning in these states, the administration has advised the people to stay away from the houses and signboards.

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Indian Express

Jun 19, 2026, 01:33 AM

Meta Invests in AI-Enabled Data Centre in Jamnagar, India

Talking about the upcoming Jamnagar data centre of the company, Santosh Janardhan, Vice President (Infrastructure), Meta, said on Thursday, “It will be part of a global fleet serving that global audience. We’re opening this data centre in India because we think India is an attractive investment destination.” Last week, Meta announced that it has entered a partnership with Reliance Industries to lease its first AI-enabled data centre in India. The tech giant’s decision to back a 168-megawatt AI-enabled data centre in Gujarat’s Jamnagar is more than just a major infrastructure investment. While the benefits for Indian consumers will be indirect initially, they will be potentially significant later. For the company, it reflects a broader belief that India is becoming increasingly key to the future of global digital infrastructure. Speaking during a media roundtable, Janardhan described the Jamnagar facility as part of the company’s worldwide network of interconnected computing systems rather than a standalone centre serving only local users. “Think about infrastructure as a bunch of super-connected supercomputers, all interconnected globally,” Janardhan said. “The facility will not be limited to a single product or workload. It is being designed as a highly flexible data centre capable of supporting a wide range of services and AI workloads globally,” he added. The executive explained that every interaction across Meta’s platforms, be it a Reel on Instagram, a WhatsApp message, or a comment from a user thousands of miles away, is powered by multiple data centres working together in real time. “When you post a reel or comment on Instagram, someone from Europe, India, or the US can interact with it in real time. It’s not a single server or single computer handling this. It’s a series of interconnected data centres working together globally to make that happen,” he told indianexpress.com. According to Janardhan, the Jamnagar facility will become part of Meta’s global infrastructure fleet, capable of supporting workloads across the company’s ecosystem rather than being dedicated to a specific product or region. “The point I’m making is it takes a global network to enable a global network,” he said. “When we open the Jamnagar data centre, it will be part of a global fleet serving that global audience.” The investment comes at a crucial time when technology companies are racing to expand their computing capacity to support increasingly demanding AI workloads. While Meta has not detailed exactly what AI functions will run from Jamnagar, Janardhan stressed the fact that flexibility is becoming a key requirement for modern infrastructure. “If we do our job right, we should have a highly flexible data centre that can serve a lot of traffic around the world,” he said. “It won’t be restricted to just Instagram or WhatsApp; it will be capable of serving our entire ecosystem.” For India, the announcement also signals growing recognition of the country’s role in global technology infrastructure. Janardhan said Meta’s decision was driven by a combination of consumer demand, infrastructure requirements, and India’s broader technology ecosystem. “We’re opening this data centre in India because we think India is an attractive investment destination,” he said. “There’s a confluence of factors: consumer demand; our infrastructure needs; and the essential ingredients for a data centre, land, power, network, and cooling, all aligned well with what India offers and Meta needs.” When asked what factors influence where Meta builds AI infrastructure, Janardhan argued that the answer extends far beyond real estate or energy availability. “Infrastructure is a loaded term,” he said. “It’s not just about data centres. It’s the hardware we deploy, the custom silicon we develop, and the engineers who work on all of this.” For physical facilities, Meta evaluates four key requirements: land, power, network connectivity, and water. However, the company’s long-term investment decisions largely depend on the availability of talent and supportive policy environments. “Talent density” remains one of India’s biggest strengths, according to Janardhan. “Do you have talent across a broad spectrum? Not just one or two domains, but across many like hardware, software, distributed systems, and silicon design,” he said. “India is one of the few countries that addresses this entire spectrum.” He also pointed to India’s large English-speaking workforce and what he described as a technology-friendly government that provides stability for long-term investments. “The stability and partnership you get from the government matter enormously,” Janardhan said. “This is a government we’ve worked well with.” According to the Meta executive, India’s massive user base also played a role. With hundreds of millions of Indians using Meta’s services daily, the country has become an important source of product feedback and innovation. “Having billions of people who use your products, know your products and can influence product direction helps,” he said. “It helps when you know what you’re building and you use what you’re building.” As AI increasingly reshapes the technology industry, Meta’s Jamnagar investment suggests the company sees India not merely as a large consumer market but as a long-term partner in building the infrastructure that will power the next generation of digital services worldwide. As part of the announcement of its AI-enabled data centre, the Mark Zuckerberg-led company also said that it was partnering with two leading clean energy providers in India, CleanMax and Fourth Partner Energy, to support nearly 1 GW of renewable energy.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 01:30 AM

Madhya Pradesh Hit by Thunderstorms and Rain Alert Issued for 39 Districts

The weather department has issued thunderstorm and rain alert for 39 districts including Bhopal, Sehore, Raisen, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, Shajapur, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Ratlam, Agar-Malwa, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Gwalior, Guna, Shivpuri, Datia, Morena, Bhind, Sheopur, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, Seoni, Narsinghpur, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori, Pandhurna, Anuppur, Sagar, Panna, Damoh, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh and Niwari on Friday.

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ABP News✓

Jun 19, 2026, 01:14 AM

Delhi-NCR Suffers Scorching Heat Wave with Temperatures Soaring Above 40°C

There seems to be no respite for Delhi-NCR from the scorching heat. In the last two-three days, the mercury has crossed the 40 mark in many parts of the capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Delhi-NCR may get some respite from rain and thunderstorm activity. However, the rising temperature is making it difficult for people to leave their homes. According to the IMD, the maximum temperature in Delhi on Thursday (June 18) was 39.5 ° C, while the minimum temperature was 27.9 ° C. The maximum temperature in the city's base station Safdarjung was 39.5 ° C, while the Ridge was 40.3 ° C and Ayanagar was 40.0 ° C. Most parts of Delhi witnessed a rise in the maximum temperature by 1-2 ° C during the last 24 hours, but the minimum temperature has increased by 4-5 ° C. The minimum temperature in Delhi during the last 24 hours varied between 26-28 ° C and 39-40 ° C.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 01:08 AM

Rajasthan Expects Four to Five Days of Thunderstorms, Hail, and Rain

The Meteorological Department says that under the influence of the currently active Western Disturbance, thunderstorm, hail and rain activities may continue for the next four to five days in many districts of Bikaner, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur and Jodhpur divisions. Strong winds with speeds of 50 to 70 kmph and moderate to heavy rains are expected in some areas. Though thunderstorms and rain will persist in the initial days, the rain spell in the state in the last week of June and early July may be weaker than normal. This indication comes at a time when farmers and the general public are waiting for the monsoon. According to meteorologists, there is no possibility of a major change in temperature during the next two weeks. Maximum temperatures in most districts will remain around normal, but in some parts of eastern and southeastern Rajasthan temperatures may be recorded 2 to 4 ° C above normal during the second week.

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 01:06 AM

India's Power Sector Faces Another Year of Weather-Driven Demand Pressure

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The Financial Express

Jun 19, 2026, 01:03 AM

Indian Debt Market Sees Sharp Reversal as Foreign Investors Flock to Bonds

Foreign investors continued to pull money out of Indian equities but debt markets witnessed a sharp reversal in trend as overseas investors increased allocations to bonds amid improving liquidity conditions, easing yields and a series of measures announced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to attract foreign capital. According to Edelweiss Mutual Fund ‘s latest fixed-income market update, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) withdrew Rs 63,450 crore from equities on a month-to-date basis in June and calendar year-to-date outflows reached Rs 2,88,382 crore, the debt markets have a different story. In shrp contrast, debt markets received net inflows of Rs 22,695 crore in the first half of June, taking fiscal year-to-date debt inflows to Rs 14,626 crore and calendar year-to-date inflows to Rs 30,961 crore. The report said improving domestic liquidity conditions and recent RBI measures aimed at attracting foreign capital into the debt market helped support bond inflows even as investors remained cautious on equities. A key development during the first half of June was the sharp fall in government bond yields following measures announced by the RBI to encourage overseas capital inflows. Edelweiss said bond yields declined after the central bank announced a series of initiatives to attract foreign capital. The RBI expanded avenues for foreign currency inflows through measures linked to foreign currency non-resident deposits, external commercial borrowings and other channels. It also broadened the universe of securities available under the Fully Accessible Route by including all new issuances of 15-year, 30-year and 40-year government securities. Surplus liquidity conditions in the banking system and declining crude oil prices further supported bond prices and contributed to the decline in yields. The easing in yields was not restricted to government securities. The Edelweiss report said activity in the primary corporate bond market has started improving after relatively subdued issuance during the first two months of the financial year, when elevated yields prompted several borrowers to rely on bank financing instead of bond markets . “Yields on high-rated corporate bonds also softened amid growing market confidence that policy support will help stabilize funding conditions and the rupee. The revival in the primary market comes after comparatively muted activity in the first two months of the current financial year,” Edelweiss said. The report pointed to a notable improvement in liquidity conditions across the banking system. Money market rates across certificate of deposit and commercial paper segments declined during the first half of June as RBI measures pushed the financial system into surplus liquidity. According to Edelweiss, lower short-term rates indicate efficient transmission of policy easing across the front end of the yield curve. “The improved liquidity environment facilitated efficient transmission of policy easing to the short end of the curve,” the report said. Another factor supporting Indian debt markets has been the sharp decline in crude oil prices. The report attributed the decline to easing global supply concerns after the United States and Iran announced a framework agreement aimed at ending their conflict. “Crude oil prices declined after the US and Iran said they had agreed on a framework deal to end the war which eased supply concerns,” Edelweiss said. The decline in yields extended beyond benchmark government securities. According to the report, improving foreign inflows, supportive liquidity conditions and expectations of policy stability outweighed inflation concerns and supported demand for state-issued debt. Government bond markets also benefited from the RBI’s decision to expand the range of securities eligible under the Fully Accessible Route, a move aimed at making Indian sovereign debt more accessible to foreign investors. International fixed-income markets provided an additional tailwind for debt assets. The report noted that improving global risk sentiment and declining energy prices contributed to stronger demand for bonds across major markets. At the same time, Indian debt markets stood out because of improving domestic liquidity conditions and targeted RBI measures designed to attract foreign capital. Edelweiss said foreign investors continued to reduce exposure to Indian equities amid global uncertainty and profit-booking, but debt markets have begun attracting fresh overseas money as liquidity conditions improve and bond yields move lower.

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Aaj Tak

Jun 19, 2026, 01:02 AM

India Expects Scattered Rainfall Amid Heatwave and Dust Storm Warnings

On the one hand, there are signs of rain in many states of the country, on the other hand, heat wave and dust storm warnings have been issued in some parts of northern India. At the same time, the southwest monsoon is still weak and its expansion has stopped. According to meteorologists, light to moderate rain with heavy spells in some places can be seen in parts of interior Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and Assam. Also, light to moderate rain is expected in northeast India, northeast Bihar, south Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, western Himalayan region, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Light rain may occur in some places in Odisha, Vidarbha, southeast Rajasthan, south and east Gujarat and Konkan and Goa. However, this rain will be sporadic and not continuous. There is a possibility of dust storm with thunderstorms in the states of northwest India - Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi. Light to moderate rain is also expected in some parts of northeast India. Heatwave conditions are expected in the northern parts of the country.

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Amar Ujala

Jun 19, 2026, 12:46 AM

Western Disturbance Brings Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms to Northwest India

According to the Meteorological Department, the Western Disturbance, which has become active since 18th June, will affect the weather in northwest India. Along with this, other weather systems present in different parts of the country are also active, due to which different weather patterns can be seen in different regions. There will be heavy rains and strong winds in some areas, while humidity and heat can increase the problems of the people. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to bad weather conditions in the sea areas as well. Under the influence of the Western Disturbance, thunderstorms with gusty winds speed reaching 40 to 50 kmph are expected in Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Chandigarh. Hailstorm is also expected in some areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Weather may be relatively more severe in Rajasthan. Advertisement Delhi NCR is likely to experience cloudy weather throughout the day on Friday. Light rain or thundershowers are expected in some areas during evening or night. Wind speed reaching 50 kmph is predicted in Maharashtra, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Goa and West Bengal during this period.

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Aaj Tak

Jun 19, 2026, 12:15 AM

El-Nino Threatens Panama Canal Operations as US-Iran Deal Brings Stability to Strait of Hormuz

After the US-Iran deal, when the tension around the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed for months, has raised hopes of stability, another important route of maritime trade has been threatened. The reason for this is not a military action, but El-Nino. The return of El-Nino in the Pacific Ocean can again threaten the work in the Panama Canal, which is one of the most important trade routes in the world. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States has officially said that El Nino has become a situation in the Pacific Ocean region and has warned that by the end of 2026 this weather event can become one of the strongest ever. According to NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, there is an 88 percent chance that El Nino between November and January will reach "strong intensity" and 63 percent chance that it will be "very strong," if it is equal to both ID2 and ID3 weather events worldwide.

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