Kolhapur: The police on Tuesday arrested seven suspects within 12 hours of a Rs 1.2 crore armed dacoity late on Monday night. The suspects had allegedly forced a Mumbai-bound private bus to stop at Wathar, about 22km from Kolhapur city along the national highway to Bengaluru, and robbed 60kg silver, 10g gold and some machinery parts from an Angadia service staffer. The police have recovered the entire property that was robbed during the dacoity.The cleaner of the bus, who knew the Angadia worker fairly well due to the latter’s frequent trips with parcels, was identified among the seven arrested suspects. He allegedly connived with the main suspect, Akshay Kadam, a 31-year-old from Vikram Nagar in Kolhapur, and five others to execute the crime, the police said.According to the preliminary investigation, the cleaner of the bus, identified as Saifu Afghani (22), a resident of Madina Colony of Uchgaon village, and his brother Jaid (21), were under debt of Rs 8 lakh. Saifu told Jaid about the transport of the valuables on the bus. Jaid then contacted his friend Akshay Kadam and Aman Sayyad (21), both residents of the Vikram Nagar locality of Kolhapur city. They, in turn, brought in Sujal Chougale (20), Adinath Vipate (25), and Adesh Kamble (18), all three residents of Akashwani Road, Sangli. Together, they planned the robbery a week ago.According to the plan, Kadam and Jaid boarded the bus at Kawala Naka, the entrance of Kolhapur city along the highway. The cleaner, Saifu, was also on the bus. The bus had left from the Central Bus Stand. After crossing Wathar, just before the Kini toll booth, Kadam and Jaid went into the driver’s cabin and asked him to stop the bus, threatening to harm him with a machete.“The two also put the machete to the neck of the cleaner and asked the driver to stop the bus and open the luggage space. They beat up the driver and the cleaner. Then they took away the parcels with the silver and gold. Two more accused arrived on bikes. They left with Kadam and Jaid. Tracing the movement of the bikes from the crime spot back to Kolhapur, we found one of the accused to be Kadam, who is known for petty crimes. We searched his house and recovered the robbed silver and gold and arrested him,” said inspector Pramod Shinde, of the Vadgaon police station.There were 31 passengers on the bus. After reaching Kini toll booth, the driver contacted the police about the incident. “We found that none of the passengers knew what was happening in the cabin. Maybe they were sleeping, and due to the sound of the air conditioning system, they may not have heard what was going on. To avoid being captured on CCTV cameras at the toll booth, the bus was stopped much before it, and within a few minutes, the suspects robbed the valuables. The valuables are now in our custody. The Angadia will get it back only after verification through the court,” said Shinde.Kadam told the police that the other accused were going to reach Temblai Nagar in Kolhapur city, where the robbed valuables were to be distributed. The police arrested the rest of the accused from Temblai Nagar. All the accused were presented before Kolhapur’s court on Wednesday. The court granted police custody of the accused till Dec 26.

A recent Pentagon report submitted to the US Congress has flagged China’s claim over Arunachal Pradesh as part of Beijing’s stated “core interests”, placing the Indian state alongside Taiwan and major maritime disputes in China’s long-term national strategy. It also highlights the extent of increasing collaboration and partnership between Beijing and Islamabad. The report notes that China’s leadership has expanded the scope of its core interests to include Taiwan, sovereignty and maritime claims in the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and Arunachal Pradesh, framing these objectives as central to achieving the “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation” by 2049.

The report says, Chinese officials have described the unification of China and contested territories – particularly Taiwan – as a “natural requirement” for national rejuvenation. Under this vision, a rejuvenated China would operate at a higher global level and field a “world-class” military capable of “fight and win” operations, while “resolutely safeguarding” sovereignty, security and development interests.On India-China ties, the report highlights that in October 2024, Indian leadership announced an agreement with China to disengage from remaining standoff points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), two days before a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit. That meeting marked the start of monthly high-level engagements, covering border management, direct flights, visa facilitation and exchanges of academics and journalists.China is seen as seeking to leverage reduced LAC tensions to stabilise ties and prevent a deepening of US-India relations, though India is expected to remain cautious, with mutual distrust likely to constrain the relationship, the report said. The report also flags China’s deepening military and strategic cooperation with Pakistan. Beijing continues to co-produce the JF-17 fighter aircraft with Pakistan and remains the only buyer of Chinese J-10 multirole combat aircraft. China has also supplied armed drones to Pakistan and several other countries and is a key naval supplier to Islamabad, reflecting in Pakistan’s $3 billion purchase of eight Yuan-class submarines. Beyond arms transfers, the Pentagon assessment notes that China is likely considering Pakistan as a potential location for future PLA military logistics facilities, as part of its broader overseas basing strategy beyond Djibouti. The report also went on to talk about the China-Pakistan intelligence agreement signed in 2020, expanding cooperation on counterterrorism operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly targeting Uyghur groups.According to the assessment, Beijing identifies three non-negotiable core interests: The continued control of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), economic development, and the defence and expansion of territorial and sovereignty claims. The report went on to add that the CCP remains highly sensitive to criticism that it is failing to protect Chinese interests, viewing both domestic and external challenges as threats to its legitimacy.

In a significant revelation following the high-stakes cricket series between India and South Africa, Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has broken his silence regarding the unsavoury on-field comments directed at him. While the series was marked by intense competition and emotional highs, including South Africa’s historic Test victory on Indian soil after 25 years, these off-field reconciliations have become the center of discussion.

Temba Bavuma recounts the ‘Bauna’ remark by Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah

The controversy centered on an incident during the first Test where microphones and lip-reading fans picked up the term ‘Bauna’, a Hindi word for ‘short’ or ‘midget’, used in reference to Bavuma. Reflecting on the moment, Bavuma admitted he was initially unaware of the specific insult due to the language barrier. “I know from my side there was an incident where they said something in their language about me,” Bavuma wrote in his column for ESPNCricinfo.

Bavuma confirmed that senior Indian players Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant personally reached out to apologize for using a derogatory term regarding his height during the opening Test match in Kolkata. He highlighted the professionalism shown afterward, stating, “At the end of the day two senior players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came and apologised.” The captain explained his reaction to the delayed realization: “When the apology was made, I was in the dark about what it was about, I hadn’t heard it at the time and I needed to check in with our media manager about it.”

Despite the personal nature of the remark, Bavuma chose to maintain a professional outlook on the rivalry. He emphasized that while the words were stinging, they did not lead to long-term animosity: “What happens on the field, stays on the field but you don’t forget what is said. You use it as fuel and motivation, but there are no grudges per se.”\

Also READ: ‘My role is to protect’: England captain Ben Stokes breaks silence on drinking controversy ahead of Boxing Day Test vs Australia

Beyond the insults directed at him, Bavuma addressed the friction caused by his own camp when coach Shukri Conrad suggested they wanted to make India ‘grovel.’ This specific word carries heavy historical weight in cricket, harking back to Tony Greig’s infamous 1976 remarks against the West Indies. Bavuma acknowledged the discomfort this caused: “The first time I heard about it, it had that unsavoury taste to it, but I think it just reminded me how tough and competitive the Test series was.”

Bavuma stood by his coach’s character but agreed that the phrasing was a misstep in such a sensitive environment. “Shukri also took some heat for his ‘grovel’ remark. I was put under pressure by the media on that side, asking me to clarify the comments,” Bavuma noted. He concluded by confirming that Conrad had addressed the issue internally and publicly: “In hindsight, he said he could have chosen a better word and I agree with him.” Ultimately, Bavuma described the tour as a grueling mental challenge that left ‘scars,’ yet he remains proud of his team’s resilience in winning a Test match in India, a feat that had eluded the Proteas for a quarter of a century.

Also READ: Virat Kohli equals Sachin Tendulkar’s legendary feat in his Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 return for Delhi

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Swastik Samal in Ranji Trophy and Sanju Samson (PTI Photo)

Swastik Samal on Wednesday produced an awe-inspiring innings to headline Odisha’s Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 opener. Stamping his authority with a stunning double century for Odisha against Saurashtra, the 25-year-old opener smashed 212 runs. Playing at the KSCA Cricket Ground, the batter came up with a performance that will be remembered for a long time.

Odisha were put in to bat first after Saurashtra skipper Harvik Desai won the toss. The start was far from ideal. Early wickets fell quickly, and Odisha were struggling at 59 for 3 inside the first 12 overs. At that stage, the pressure was firmly on the batting side, and a big total looked unlikely.That is when Swastik Samal took charge. Calm under pressure, he decided to build his innings brick by brick. He began cautiously but soon played himself in as the youngster found gaps rather than forcing shots. His confidence grew with every over, and soon he was batting with complete control. Samal reached his half-century in 53 balls and brought up his maiden List A hundred in 104 deliveries.The turning point of the innings was the partnership between Samal and Odisha captain Biplab Samantray. The pair added a huge 261 runs for the fourth wicket. Samantray played an excellent supporting role, having amassed a quick 100 off 91 balls while hitting seven fours and three sixes. Together, they dismantled the Saurashtra bowling attack.His final tally of 212 runs included 21 fours and eight sixes. He was eventually dismissed in the final over, but by then the damage had been done. Odisha finished with an imposing 345 for 6 in their 50 overs.It was his first-ever List A century, and he turned it into a double hundred in style. With this innings, he became only the ninth batter in Vijay Hazare Trophy history to score a double century. His score of 212 is now the joint fourth-highest individual total in the tournament, matching Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 212 from 2019.

Highest individual scores in Vijay Hazare Trophy history

Samal also broke Odisha’s long-standing List A record, surpassing the previous best of 145 set in 2005. However, with Vishvaraj Jadeja (50), Sammar Gajjar (132), and Chirag Jani (86) putting up some incredible performances, Saurashtra chased down the target of 346 in 48.5 overs and won the match by five wickets.

Christmas arrives softly but it stays loudly in memory. It comes with familiar scents, repeated songs, warm lights and that unspoken permission to pause. In a year shaped by deadlines, uncertainty and constant movement, Christmas feels like a break. It reminds people that connection matters, that kindness still counts, and that joy doesn’t need to be extravagant to be real. Words take on special importance during this season. A simple message can feel like a hug, a reminder, or a bridge across distance. Whether sent on a card, typed into a message, or whispered across a dinner table, Christmas wishes carry emotion far beyond their length. Before the wishes, it helps to understand why this day continues to hold such meaning.

The importance and significance of christmas

At its heart, Christmas marks the birth of hope. Rooted in the story of Jesus Christ’s birth, the day symbolises renewal, compassion, humility, and love. Over time, its meaning has expanded beyond religion into something universal. It has become a celebration of togetherness, generosity, forgiveness, and reflection.

Christmas matters because it slows people down. It creates space for family, friendship, gratitude, and kindness, things often pushed aside during the rest of the year. Traditions, whether spiritual or cultural, provide comfort and continuity. They remind people that even as the world changes, certain values remain steady. In modern life, Christmas has also become a moment to check in. To reconnect. To reach out to people who may not hear from you often but still matter deeply. That’s where words come in. Below are over 75 thoughtfully written Christmas messages you can share with friends, family, colleagues, etc.

Merry Christmas to the people who make every season feel like home. Christmas feels warmer simply because it’s spent with family like ours. Wishing our family a Christmas filled with comfort, laughter, and shared moments. No matter where life takes us, Christmas always brings us back together. May this Christmas remind us how lucky we are to have each other. Grateful for traditions, memories, and a family that keeps growing stronger. Christmas with family isn’t perfect, but it’s always meaningful. Sending love to the people who make my world feel steady and safe. May this season bring peace to our home and ease to our hearts. Family makes Christmas feel real, not rushed.

Merry Christmas to the ones who made every Christmas magical long before we understood how. Thank you for being the quiet miracle behind every celebration. Every Christmas memory begins with you. Your presence has always been the best gift. May this season return even a fraction of the care you’ve shared all year. Christmas feels gentler when it’s spent thinking of you. Thankful today and always for your love and guidance. Merry Christmas to the hearts that built our home.

Growing up together made Christmas stories worth retelling. Wishing you a season full of warmth, humour, and good food. Sibling love makes Christmas louder, funnier, and better. Some bonds don’t need wrapping; they just last. Christmas is better when shared with someone who knows all your versions. May this season bring you peace and small wins worth celebrating. Childhood memories hit differently at Christmas. Here’s to inside jokes and shared traditions. Merry Christmas to someone who feels like home.

Merry Christmas to the people who choose you, year after year. Friendship makes the season lighter and brighter. Thankful for conversations, laughter, and moments that feel easy. Christmas is better with friends who feel like family. Wishing you comfort, joy, and time to truly rest. Here’s to friendship that survives busy lives and long gaps. May this season give you exactly what you didn’t know you needed. Grateful for a year of shared highs, lows, and laughs. Christmas feels warmer knowing you’re in my life. Sending festive cheer to someone who makes life better.

Wishing you a peaceful Christmas and a well-deserved break. May the season bring clarity, rest, and renewed energy. Thank you for the teamwork and shared effort this year. Hoping your Christmas is calm, joyful, and restorative. Here’s to closing the year with gratitude and optimism. Wishing you success, balance, and good health in the year ahead. May this season mark a fresh start and new momentum. Thankful for collaboration and mutual respect. Merry Christmas and best wishes for the coming year. Hoping the holidays bring both rest and inspiration.

Christmas feels softer with you beside me. Thank you for being my constant through every season. Every celebration feels fuller because of you. Wishing us quiet moments and shared warmth this Christmas. Love feels louder during the holidays. You’re my favourite part of every season. May this Christmas deepen everything we already share. Grateful for love that grows, not rushes. The best gift is simply being together. Christmas with you feels right.

Merry Christmas and warm wishes to you and yours. Sending festive cheer your way. Merry Christmas! Wishing you peace, joy, and good company. May your Christmas be calm and bright.Hope the season treats you kindly. Merry Christmas!Warm wishes for a meaningful Christmas.Joy, comfort, and rest to you.Merry Christmas and gentle days ahead.Celebrating the season with gratitude.Wishing you light and warmth. Merry Christmas!

Christmas reminds us that joy doesn’t need permission.The best gifts are often unseen.Christmas is less about things and more about presence.Kindness feels more natural during this season.The quiet moments are often the most memorable.What lasts beyond Christmas is what truly matters.Joy multiplies when shared.Tradition is memory made visible.Christmas is a pause worth protecting. Christmas messages don’t have to be perfect to matter. What they need is sincerity. Whether they’re sent to family, friends, colleagues, or someone you don’t speak to often but still care about, the right words travel far. They cross distance, time, and silence. In a season filled with noise, a simple, thoughtful message stands out. And sometimes, that quiet moment of connection becomes the most meaningful gift of all.

Klay Thompson & Megan Thee Stallion Vs Brandon Ingram & GloRilla’s net worth (Image via Getty Images)

NBA players are well-known figures. Prominent male athletes are frequently able to locate some of the most attractive and remarkable women. It makes sense that they would date other well-known individuals like actresses, models, or singers since they are essentially celebrities. In the NBA, it is not only the athletes who are creating waves on the court that attract all the attention but also the alluring ladies standing by as their biggest fans, particularly if that athlete is a member of the NBA, the second-biggest professional sports league in the country. The NBA has seen a lot of head-turning girlfriends this year.

Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion‘s combined net worth in 2025: Earnings, assets, investments, and more

According to publications like Celebrity Net Worth and others, Klay Thompson’s wealth in 2025 is estimated to be between the lower limit of $70 million and the higher maximum of $140 million. This is mostly because of his lucrative three-year, $50 million NBA contract with the Dallas Mavericks, which begins in 2024. He also has huge endorsement deals with companies like Anta, and his investments are propelling him up the financial ladder. Megan Thee Stallion’s estimated net worth in 2025 is $40 million. In addition to her music, the singer has a number of contracts with other companies. She was named the brand ambassador for the well-known cosmetics firm Revlon in 2020.In addition to owning Realtypath, a real estate company, he has invested in Overtime, a sports media start-up, and Sleeper, a fantasy sports website. On the other hand, Megan Thee Stallion became a worldwide brand ambassador for Revlon in 2020. In February 2022, Megan, a rapper, appeared in a Cheetos commercial that aired during the Super Bowl. She reportedly received $2 million for her role in the advertisement. Additionally, the actress signed a contract with the Cheetos during the 2022 NFL Super Bowl, earning an estimated $2 million. In the past, she served as the model for the company’s advertisements. They are therefore unquestionably viewed as a power couple because of their joint riches of more than $100 million in addition to their love.

Brandon Ingram and GloRilla’s combined net worth in 2025: Earnings, assets, investments, and more

Rapper GloRilla has revealed in multiple interviews that he and NBA player Brandon Ingram are in a public relationship. GloRilla is thought to be worth $2 million. With her singles F.N.F. (Let’s Go), Tomorrow 2, and Blessed, she rose to fame in 2022. Through the release of successful singles, albums, and joint ventures with other musicians, the rapper has accumulated fortune. Conversely, American professional basketball player Brandon Ingram has a $12 million net worth. Ingram began playing collegiate basketball at Duke, where he won the 2016 ACC Rookie of the Year award. In the 2016 NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the second overall pick.Through his brand deals, NBA contracts, and other ventures, Ingram has amassed cash. After being selected by the Los Angeles Lakers, he joined the league in 2016 and quickly established himself as a dependable player. After being transferred to the Toronto Raptors in 2025, he reportedly agreed to a $120 million three-year contract extension. The aggregate net worth of Brandon Ingram and GloRilla from their individual careers and endorsements is thought to be between $13 and $15 million, while precise amounts are not available. However, this varies with income streams.Taken together, these NBA stars and their high-profile partners personify how success on the court and stardom off it can translate into impressive financial empires. Their combined earnings and influence firmly place them among the most talked-about power couples in sports and entertainment today.Also read: Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion’s combined net worth in 2025: Earnings, assets, investments, and more