In a devastating incident, the film industry mourns the loss of 26-year-old Nandini CM, a South Indian actress celebrated for her role in ‘Gauri.’ Her untimely death by suicide in Bengaluru has shocked her fans and colleagues. Discovered in her shared living space, a note indicating personal battles and emotional challenges was found.

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to suicide.Nandini CM, a prominent face in the South industry, has passed away at the age of 26. She starred in shows and projects such as ‘Jeeva Hoovagide’, ‘Sangharsha’, and ‘Gauri. The actress was found in her PG accomodation with a suicide note.

More about the actress

Nandini was born in Karnataka’s Ballari district and completed most of her education near her home. She later moved to Bengaluru to pursue higher education in engineering. However, upon reaching the big city, acting became more appealing to her, and she started training for it formally in Rajarajeshwari Nagar.According to Moneycontrol, after her father’s passing, Nandini was offered a government job, which she ended up refusing. She became more serious about her acting career and gave all of her time to practicing the art.

What happened

Nandini CM passed away at the age of 26 by suicide on December 29. The Kannada and Tamil television star was a well-known face in the South and was known for her feature in ‘Gauri.’ As per Deccan Herald’s report, the actress breathed her last at her PG accommodation in Bengaluru. Her friend had called the PG owner to check on her after she had been unreachable. She shifted to that area in August earlier this year. News18 reported that a note was found at the premises, which mentioned issues with family, being asked to marry again and again, and emotional distress, amongst other matters. Kengeri police have registered a case of death by unnatural causes andan investigation into the matter is underway. DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, or mental illness, please seek professional help immediately from a doctor, mental health expert, or NGO. Helplines are also available.

The thought usually arrives without warning. A late night visit to the bathroom, the sound of water, then the image that no one wants to picture for long. Snakes and toilets do not belong together, yet the stories linger. Most people never experience anything close to it, which is partly why the idea spreads so easily. When it does happen, it is rarely dramatic in the way people imagine. There is no intent, no planning, no sense of a snake choosing a bathroom. What exists instead is a network of pipes, damp ground, and small animals moving unseen. Toilets become involved almost by accident. Understanding that quieter reality does not remove the discomfort, but it does soften the fear and brings the situation back into proportion.

Why do snakes sometimes appear in toilet bowls

Underground pipes are not so different from the spaces snakes already use. They are narrow, dark, and mostly undisturbed. Temperatures stay fairly steady, especially compared with the heat above ground. For a snake trying to avoid danger or the sun, these places offer short term shelter.Drains and sewer lines also connect wide areas. A snake entering one opening can travel far without ever being seen. Toilets sit at the end of these systems, not as a goal, but as one of the few exits.

Are snakes following food into drains

Food plays a quiet role. Sewers attract rats, frogs, insects, and other small creatures. These animals slip in and out through broken covers and open drains. Snakes follow movement more than places.A snake hunting underground does not know where a pipe leads. It moves forward until the space changes. Sometimes that change is a toilet bowl, wider and filled with water.

Does water and moisture make a difference

Moisture matters, especially in dry or hot weather. Pipes stay damp throughout the year. Water flows through them regularly, and the air inside is cooler than the surface.During heatwaves, snakes often seek relief below ground. The plumbing system becomes part of that escape. Toilets are simply connected to it.

Does flooding push snakes upward

Flooding is one of the strongest triggers. When heavy rain fills drains quickly, snakes already inside are forced to move. Staying low becomes dangerous.The only direction left is up. Toilets offer a vertical opening, often wider than other pipe ends. Many reported cases follow storms or seasonal flooding.

Can toilet design allow snakes through

Toilets are designed to block smells, not animals. Water traps slow movement, but they are not solid barriers. Some snakes are strong swimmers and flexible enough to pass bends.Older plumbing, dry traps, or poor maintenance increase the chance. It is still uncommon, but design plays a role.

Do snakes come up toilets to attack people

There is no evidence of that. Snakes emerging into a bathroom are usually stressed and confused. Many try to retreat or stay still.Bites in these situations are rare. The snake is reacting to fear, not seeking contact.

What conditions raise the risk

Certain settings make incidents more likely. Homes near open drains, fields, or wetlands see more wildlife movement. Poor sanitation and broken manholes also matter.Flood prone areas and buildings with older plumbing face slightly higher risk. Even then, cases remain uncommon.

How can homes reduce the chance

Simple steps help. Keeping drains covered, reducing rodents, and maintaining water traps all help to lower the risk. One way valves can block movement from pipes.These measures are about prevention, not panic.The truth is quieter than the stories. Toilets are not invitations. They are accidental exits, rarely used, mostly avoided, and quickly forgotten once the pipe returns to silence.

Your heart is always active, but it is resting when you are calm and sitting quietly for extended periods. During this position, it beats at a slow rate, and this is referred to as your resting heart rate. This value is not just a number; it is a reflection of your heart condition. A heart rate of 60 to 90 beats per minute is considered within normal limits, and if it exceeds 90, it may be an indicator of potential heart problems. This rate is influenced by genetics, age, and stress, and research has shown that maintaining a low level can lead to increased longevity and fewer heart complications.

Understanding resting heart rate and its significance

Resting heart rate refers to the rate at which the heart beats every minute when one is resting. It usually remains relatively constant daily and is affected by certain issues, including age, lifestyle, activity level, and certain diseases and medications. The heart rate usually tends to indicate good cardiac health when it is low and suggests potential health problems when it rises steadily with time. For example, heart rates of 28 beats per minute are not uncommon for some athletes because they are exceptionally healthy and aerobically fit.According toHarvard Health, various studies have revealed that a high resting heart rate has an important role in determining health outcomes. A study conducted among 29,000 adults who did not have any underlying heart conditions demonstrated that an increase in heart rate over a period of ten years increased the risk of death. Furthermore, a study conducted in postmenopausal women revealed that women who had high heart rates were likely to encounter heart attacks compared to women who had normal heart rates.

Biohacker Bryan Johnson reveals why and how resting heart rate is important before bed

A low heart rate is associated with good heart health. You can keep your heart healthy by exercising, controlling stress, staying away from smoking, and ensuring that you remain at a healthy weight. With regular monitoring of heart rate, you can assess how you are progressing in staying healthy for the rest of your life.A recent video shared by Bryan Johnson on Instagram, where he explains the importance of resting heart rate and how he achieved this goal by going too low. The video explains the importance of resting heart rate and how he achieved this goal. The video further contains his experience where he reveals: “My own resting heart rate is 44.”Furthermore, according to the post, the most effective means to have good health is by reducing the heart rate before bedtime. As the heart rate determined the sleeper sleeps better, he also mentioned how people tend to increase their heart rate by shouting, raising it from 44 to 77, which ultimately harms their overall healthID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.

Strategies to lower your resting heart rate

There are several evidence-based strategies to help reduce your resting heart rate:

Caffeine is a stimulator that can last within your body for a period of 6 to 8 hours. It can disrupt the body’s physiological signals that induce sleep if taken late in the evening hours. Avoid the intake of caffeine from midday onwards to give your body sufficient time to process it and hence promote a smooth transition to sleep.

Dining before sleeping can result in digestion problems and sleep disturbance. Eating a heavy meal before sleeping can cause acid reflux, and consequently, this can increase the difficulty of falling asleep. It is recommended that the last meal be consumed at least four hours before bedtime. It helps the body in the process of digestion, thus promoting sleep.

Turning off electronic devices an hour before bedtime helps the body produce melatonin naturally, preparing the body and mind for a good night’s rest.Reading a physical book, not through a backlit screen, is a calming task that relieves stress and tells your body to relax and wind down. Reading can also distract you from thinking too much, which will lull you to sleep.

Light physical exercise and meditation help calm the body and mind. Walking helps you get rid of stress hormones from your body and also helps you clear your mind, while meditation helps you reduce the pace of your thinking, decrease your heartbeat rate, and prepare your nervous system to rest. Warm and soft lighting recreates the natural appearance of the setting sun and gives you a signal to relax and prepare for the end of the day. Unlike bright light, warm light promotes the production of melatonin and helps you prepare for sleep.

Every day a stressful emotion or argument causes cortisol production. Cortisol is a hormone that helps you remain alert. Taking part in arguments close to the time you need to sleep might not allow you to relax. Therefore, avoiding arguments in the evening helps you maintain a calm brain that is ready to sleep.

How to measure your resting heart rate

Taking your resting heart rate is easy and does not involve visiting your doctor. You only require your index and middle fingers, which you press on the wrist just below the thumb, and then lightly gauge the number of beats in 15 seconds and multiply by four. The best way to take your resting heart rate successfully is when you are waking up in the morning before getting out of bed.

When to consult a doctor

A heart rate above 85 is worth discussing with a medical professional. Some people have naturally higher heart rates, but personal characteristics, lifestyle, and cardiovascular risk must also be considered. A healthcare professional can recommend the best methods for addressing this issue and working out a strategy to keep the heart healthy.

Durban Super Giants and Joburg Super Kings meet in an early top-of-the-table clash at Kingsmead with both sides looking to build on positive starts to their SA20 2025-26 campaigns. With conditions expected to aid pace and movement under lights, game management in the powerplay and death overs should decide a contest stacked with established internationals on both sides.​

Durban sit near the top after a strong win over MI Cape Town in their opener and a rain-affected second game, giving them six points and early momentum at home.​ Joburg opened their season with a 22-run win over Pretoria Capitals, defending 168 comfortably to slot into the upper half of the table with four points.​ With first vs second (or thereabouts) in the standings, this fixture has early implications for playoff positioning despite it being only the sixth match of the season.

DSG vs JSK, SA20 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: December 30; 9:00 pm IST / 3:30 pm GMT / 5:30 pm Local
• Venue: Kingsmead, Durban

DSG vs JSK Head-to-Head Record in SA20 

Matches played: 07 | Durban’s Super Giants won: 03 | Joburg Super Kings won: 04 | No result/Tied: 00

Kingsmead Pitch Report

Kingsmead traditionally offers seam movement with the new ball thanks to surface moisture and coastal humidity, making the powerplay a tricky phase for batters who go too hard too early.​ Recent SA20 and T20 numbers at Durban show average first-innings scores hovering in the 150–160 range, with anything above 165 often proving very competitive if bowlers hit the pitch-hard back-of-a-length channels.​ There has also been the occasional high-scoring game with both teams crossing 200 when the surface bakes under sun and the ball skids on, but a balanced contest between bat and ball remains the expectation.

Squads

Durban’s Super Giants: Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Jos Buttler, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Evan Jones, David Wiese, Eathan Bosch, Simon Harmer, Kwena Maphaka, Noor Ahmad, Sunil Narine, Taijul Islam, Dayyaan Galiem, Daryn Dupavillon, Tony de Zorzi, Marques Ackerman, Gerald Coetzee, David Bedingham, Andile Simelane, Gysbert Wege

Joburg Super Kings: Faf du Plessis (c), Rilee Rossouw, Wiaan Mulder, Donovan Ferreira (wk), Matthew De Villiers, Dian Forrester, Shubham Ranjane, Duan Jansen, Janco Smit, Akeal Hosein, Richard Gleeson, James Vince, Imran Tahir, Reece Topley, Prenelan Subrayen, Daniel Worrall, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Nandre Burger, Steve Stolk, Neil Timmers, Jarren Bacher

Also READ: SA20 2026 – Full list of commentators and presenters at South Africa’s explosive T20 cricket league

DSG vs JSK, SA20 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Durban’s Super Giants wins the toss and bats first
• Durban’s Super Giants’ powerplay score: 50-60
• Durban’s Super Giants’ total score: 170-180

Case 2:

• Joburg Super Kings wins the toss and bats first
• Joburg Super Kings’ powerplay score: 40-50
• Joburg Super Kings’ total score: 160-170

Match result: Team batting first to win the contest.

Also READ: Sunrisers Eastern Cape skittle Paarl Royals for SA20’s lowest-ever total in one-sided win

India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur with teammates. (PTI Photo)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: India’s women swept Sri Lanka 4–0 with the authority of a team several rungs above their opponents. Runs flowed freely, wickets fell on demand, and results were rarely in doubt. Yet, amid the boundary avalanches and wicket flurries, a familiar gremlin kept tugging at the hem of a dominant campaign: The fielding.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Head coach Amol Muzumdar will look at this series where India bossed the big moments but fumbled the basics.

With little at stake in terms of results, India will head into the final match of the series in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday with plenty to fine-tune before bigger challenges loom. The errors on the field were not half-chances or acrobatic near-misses. They were the kind that make coaches wince. In one telling moment in the 4th T20, a mistimed swing ballooned off the stumps and floated gently towards long-on. Smriti Mandhana was perfectly placed. The catch was regulation. And yet, it went down.If that felt like an aberration, Deepti Sharma’s night confirmed it wasn’t. A shin-high full toss on off stump lacked timing, and was hit straight to her at long-on. Deepti went reverse-cupped, and spilled it. Worse still, the ball trickled away for four. What should have been a dot, or a wicket-ending moment, became another footnote of carelessness.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. India dropped five catches in the series opener in Visakhapatnam alone, three of them straightforward. Across the series, the pattern repeated: clean dominance punctured by sloppy fielding.And yet, India’s batting depth and bowling discipline ensured the missed chances did not alter the outcomes. That, perhaps, is the most worrying part. When errors don’t hurt, urgency tends to fade.Wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh was quick to offer perspective. “We had an off day in the field. It’s understandable, but everyone in this team is working really hard on their fielding drills. I won’t say anything about the fielding for this one game,” she said after the 4th T20.One game doesn’t define a team. But a series leaves markers.This Indian side is evolving into a formidable unit. The batting is fearless, the bowling increasingly clinical. Which makes the fielding stand out even more sharply. At the highest level, championships are not won only by sixes and spells; they are secured by catches and sharp ground work.India may have cruised past Sri Lanka in this series, but stronger opponents will not be as forgiving. With the T20 World Cup barely six months away, this is an area India would dearly like to rectify.

India is on track to conclude 2025 as one of its most significant years of economic performance, with key macroeconomic indicators reflecting strong growth, low inflation, expanded exports and improved labour market conditions, the government said in its year-end economic review. According to a press note released by the Press Information Bureau, India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded at 8.2 per cent in the second quarter of the financial year (FY) 2025-26, marking a six-quarter high and underscoring resilient domestic demand amidst a challenging global trade environment. This follows growth rates of 7.8 per cent in the first quarter and 7.4 per cent in the fourth quarter of FY 2024-25. The government highlighted that the real Gross Value Added (GVA), a measure of domestic production, grew by 8.1 per cent in Q2 of 2025-26, driven by buoyancy in both the industrial and services sectors. The sustained expansion signals a broad-based upturn in economic activity across key sectors. Inflation trends remained largely benign throughout the year, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate steadily softening from 4.26 per cent in January 2025 to 0.71 per cent in November 2025, offering the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) policy space to maintain a supportive monetary stance. Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation also moderated during the year, reinforcing the overall price stability environment. On employment, the latest labour force estimates revealed a notable improvement in job market conditions. In November 2025, the unemployment rate fell to 4.7 per cent, down from 5.2 per cent in October, the lowest level recorded since April 2025. The decline was broad-based, with both urban and rural segments contributing to the improvement. The overall labour force participation and worker participation rates also showed encouraging trends. Export performance strengthened over the course of 2025, with merchandise exports reaching USD 38.13 billion in November, up from USD 36.43 billion in January. Services exports, a key pillar of the external sector, also recorded solid growth, reflecting India’s expanding footprint in global value chains and rising demand for Indian software, business services and other globally tradable services. External sector resilience was further evidenced by robust foreign exchange reserves and improved current account dynamics. Remittances remained strong, helping to moderate the current account deficit alongside solid services export receipts. Government emphasised that the combination of strong domestic demand, structural reforms, supportive monetary conditions, and stable price levels has contributed to what they described as a “Goldilocks moment” for the Indian economy, characterised by both high growth and low inflation. With a GDP value surpassing USD 4.18 trillion, India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy and is projected to ascend further in global rankings in the coming years. Projections from both domestic and international institutions suggest continued expansion, underscoring India’s potential to sustain robust growth through 2026 and beyond. The government reiterated its commitment to structural reforms and policy measures designed to sustain economic momentum while broadening the base of inclusive growth.

NEW DELHI: The ministry of civil aviation on Tuesday instructed airlines to comply with passenger facilitation norms amid the prevailing fog and low-visibility, impacting flight operations across north India.The ministry also urged passengers to check flight status and allow extra travel time.“Amid prevailing fog and low-visibility conditions impacting flights in parts of Northern India, passengers are advised to proactively check flight status, remain in contact with their airlines and allow extra travel time,” ministry said.“Airlines have been instructed to strictly comply with passenger facilitation norms, including timely flight information, meals for delayed passengers, rebooking or refunds in case of cancellations, no denial of boarding after timely check-in, baggage facilitation and prompt grievance redressal. The ministry of civil aviation remains committed to passenger safety, convenience and well-being, and continues to closely monitor the situation,” it added.118 flights cancelled, 16 divertedThis comes after 118 flights were cancelled, , 16 flights diverted and 130 services delayed at the Delhi airport on Tuesday due to low visibility.An official said 60 arrivals and 58 departures were cancelled while 16 flights were diverted at the airport.In a post on X in the morning, Delhi International Airport Ltd said all flight operations continue as normal and flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected.CAT III compliance allows pilots to operate flights in low visibility conditions.On Monday, the statutory body also announced the deployment of assistance teams at affected airports to provide support to travellers on the ground.“AAI has activated passenger facilitation measures and deployed assistance teams at affected airports to support travellers on the ground. We remain committed to ensuring passenger safety, convenience, and smooth airport operations during adverse weather conditions. Customer Support Numbers – Airlines- IndiGo: 0124 497 3838, Air India: 011 6932 9333, SpiceJet: +91 (0)124 498 3410 / +91 (0)124 710 1600, Air India Express: +91 124 443 5600 / +91 124 693 5600, Akasa Air: 9606112131, Alliance Air: 044 3511 3511, IndiaOne Air: 6358881040, Star Air: 022 5079 9555 / 9970555111, Fly91: 8668919191,” it wrote on social media post.Airlines issue advisoryAir India said that it is closely monitoring the situation and has taken “proactive steps to minimise disruptions.” It said that the Air India’s ground staff will be available at key key touchpoints in the airports to extend assistance in case of delays diversion or cancellations.“We are closely monitoring the situation and have taken proactive steps to minimise disruptions (learn more at http://bit.ly/4agYVyF). In the event of unexpected delays, diversions or cancellations resulting from fog, please rest assured that our ground teams are available at key touchpoints in the airports to extend assistance to you. We understand how frustrating such disruption to travel plans can be and are making every possible effort to minimise the inconvenience,” it said in a social media post on X.“In addition, our ‘FogCare’ initiative allows passengers booked on certain flights that are likely to be affected during the fog window to receive advance alerts on their registered phone numbers, with the option to reschedule their flights without any additional payment or seek a full refund on their bookings without penalty,” it added.Dense fog shrouds DelhiDense fog blanketed Delhi early Tuesday, causing visibility to drop sharply in several areas, even as the air quality improved marginally.The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 388 on Tuesday morning, marking a marginal improvement from Monday, when the city’s air quality stood at the ‘severe’ category with a reading of 401.Data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) Sameer app on Tuesday showed 16 air quality monitoring stations in the ‘severe’ category, while 21 stations recorded air quality in the ‘very poor’ category.The outlook for the subsequent six days indicates that air quality is likely to stay in the ‘very poor’ range.The minimum temperature in the city was recorded at 9.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning, with the IMD issuing an ‘orange’ alert and forecasting very dense fog during the day.

BENGALURU: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv–New Generation (NG) completed its maiden flight in Bengaluru on Tuesday, marking a step forward in the company’s effort to reposition the Dhruv platform for the civil and export markets.Designed and manufactured by HAL, the Dhruv NG is a 5.5-tonne, light, twin-engine, multi-role helicopter upgraded to meet the requirements of the global civil aviation sector. The aircraft builds on the existing Dhruv platform, with improvements focused on safety, performance, ride quality and passenger comfort, while retaining high-altitude and hot-and-high operating capability relevant to Indian conditions.“At the heart of the helicopter are twin Shakti 1H1C engines, an indigenous powerplant that offers higher power ratings and the advantage of in-country maintenance and support,” HAL said, adding that the use of the Shakti engines strengthens self-reliance while reducing long-term operating and lifecycle costs for civilian operators.The Dhruv NG features a civil-certified glass cockpit compliant with AS4 requirements, coupled with a modern avionics and navigation suite aimed at improving situational awareness and reducing pilot workload. “Safety enhancements include crashworthy seats, self-sealing fuel tanks and a proven twin-engine configuration that provides redundancy during critical phases of flight,” HAL said.Ride quality has been a key focus area in the new variant, HAL said, adding that advanced vibration control systems have been incorporated to ensure smoother flight characteristics, particularly for roles such as VIP transport and emergency medical services.With a maximum take-off weight of 5,500 kg, the helicopter has a top speed of about 285 kmph and a range of roughly 630 km with a 20-minute reserve. It offers an endurance of around three hours and 40 minutes and can operate up to a service ceiling of 6,000 metres. The internal payload capacity is about 1,000 kg.The Dhruv NG’s cabin, with a volume of 7.33 cubic metres, is designed to be reconfigured for multiple civilian roles. It can be fitted for VIP or VVIP transport with seating for four to six passengers, configured to carry up to 14 passengers in a commuter layout, or adapted for air ambulance operations with space for four stretchers, a doctor and an attendant. Other intended applications include offshore operations, law enforcement and search-and-rescue missions.HAL has positioned the Dhruv Civil NG as a cost-effective alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters. The company said it would offer a “one-stop solution” covering manufacturing, maintenance and upgrades, supported by integrated logistics models such as Power-By-Hour and performance-based logistics to ensure higher fleet availability.The maiden flight is expected to be followed by a series of certification and performance evaluation sorties as HAL prepares the helicopter for wider civilian induction.

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of former Bangladesh prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, remembering her role in Bangladesh’s development and in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations. “Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

He added, “Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss.” Modi noted her place in Bangladesh’s political history, saying, “As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations, will always be remembered.”Recalling a past interaction, the PM added, “I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace.”Khaleda Zia died early Tuesday in Dhaka at the age of 80, the Daily Star reported. She had been in critical condition for months and was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of Evercare Hospital. She suffered from multiple chronic ailments, including heart disease, liver and kidney complications, diabetes, lung problems, arthritis and eye-related conditions. She had a permanent pacemaker and had earlier undergone stent placement for cardiac issues. After returning from London earlier this year on May 6 following advanced medical care, she had been undergoing regular check-ups at Evercare Hospital, according to the Daily Star.

Tributes from Bangladesh leadership

Interim government chief Muhammad Yunus also expressed sorrow at her passing. “I am deeply saddened and grief-stricken by her death,” he said in a condolence message.Her death comes days after her son, Tarique Rahman, returned to Bangladesh from London, ending 17 years of self-imposed exile, as the country prepares for elections expected in early 2026. Despite frail health, Khaleda had last month indicated she would campaign for the polls, with the BNP widely seen as a frontrunner.

A towering political figure

Khaleda Zia was the first woman to serve as Bangladesh’s prime minister. She married Ziaur Rahman in 1960; he later became president in 1977 and was assassinated in 1981. Khaleda entered active politics soon after and took over as BNP chief in 1984.She led the BNP to victory in 1991, serving as prime minister from 1991 to 1996, and again from 2001 to 2006. For decades, she remained the principal political rival of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s long-serving leader, who is currently living in exile in New Delhi after fleeing the country amid nationwide unrest in 2024.(With inputs from agencies)