Zohran Mamdani’s historic swearing-in as New York City’s new mayor was meant to be the headline moment. But online, the conversation quickly drifted, not to policy, not to politics, but to footwear.While Mamdani took the oath at a midnight ceremony, social media zeroed in on what his wife, artist Rama Duwaji, was wearing that night. Photos from the late-night event, held inside the abandoned City Hall Subway station, circulated widely and sparked a fresh debate over optics, wealth, and symbolism.

In the images, Duwaji is seen wearing sleek black boots that Vogue later identified as designer footwear from fashion brand Miista. The boots, known as the “Shelley Boots,” retail for $630 a pair. According to the brand, they feature a 6-centimeter (2.3-inch) heel and a lace-up back. Once the price tag became public, criticism followed. Some users questioned how Duwaji could be wearing boots worth more than $600 while Mamdani has built his political identity around affordability and advocating for a more accessible New York.Photos from the abandoned subway station, dramatic, moody, and undeniably stylish, only amplified the attention.One user wrote, “Tough being a socialist when boots cost more than my rent.”Another said, “Wealthy communists. It’s always the case. Should surprise no one.”A third wrote, “We don’t call them Champagne Communists for nothing.”However, many were even defending Duwaji. A user wrote, “She dressed up for the biggest moment in her husband’s life, oh the horror. I must have missed the $50,000 watch or $30,000 bracelets I see on MAGA women like Kristi Noem”A second user said, “$630 for a shoe at a NYC mayoral signing is not a flex. anything less would be disrespect to the city.” Another asked, “and the problem is? Acting like she bought em with government money or something.”Rama Duwaji’s fashion had become topic of conversation long before her husband won the Mayoral race. Online, she’s often spotted in similarly modernist outfits. During the 34-year-old democratic socialist’s victory speech in November, Duwaji stood by his side in a dark denim square-neck top by Palestinian-Jordanian designer Zeid Hijazi, paired with a black skirt from Ulla Johnson, and accessorized with statement dangling earrings by New York City jewelry designer Eddie Borgo.In an interview with The Cut, Rama said, “I love fashion, and I love being creative and putting things together and styling things.”

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The decision was communicated to the franchise on Saturday and is understood to be linked to recent developments in Bangladesh that have raised wider sensitivities, prompting the board to intervene ahead of the upcoming season.

BCCI instructs KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the governing body has asked KKR to move on from the Bangladesh international and has also assured the franchise that it will be permitted to sign a replacement. The board’s stance ensures that KKR will not be left short-handed as they prepare their squad for IPL 2026, even though the release was not driven by cricketing reasons.

According to Saikia, the instruction was issued after reviewing the prevailing situation, with the BCCI keen to act decisively to avoid any further complications. While the board has not set a deadline publicly, KKR are expected to complete the formalities soon and initiate the process of identifying an alternative overseas player.

“Due to the recent developments which is going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchisee KKR to release one of their player Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement,” said Saikia as quoted by ANI.

High-profile auction buy sparks debate

Mustafizur had been one of KKR’s headline acquisitions at the IPL mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi, where the franchise secured him for INR 9.20 crore after a competitive bidding tussle with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The pacer’s international experience and his reputation for deceptive cutters made him an attractive option for the defending champions, particularly for matches on slower surfaces.

However, the signing quickly became a talking point beyond cricket. Over the past few days, KKR and their ownership group, including co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, faced criticism from sections of fans on social media. The backlash centred on the timing of the move, given the strained atmosphere surrounding India–Bangladesh relations, eventually drawing the attention of the BCCI.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 3 players KKR can sign to replace Mustafizur Rahman if he misses out

No clarity yet on India’s Bangladesh tour

With Mustafizur set to exit, KKR’s think tank will now reassess its overseas combination. The franchise is likely to look for a fast bowler who can offer similar skills—variation at the death and experience in pressure situations—while also fitting seamlessly into the team’s broader plans for the season.

The BCCI’s assurance on allowing a replacement provides KKR flexibility, whether they choose to dip into the unsold pool or explore other available options. From the league’s perspective, the move reinforces the board’s intent to keep the IPL insulated from off-field turbulence as much as possible.

Interestingly, the BCCI has remained silent on India’s scheduled white-ball tour of Bangladesh later in the year. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recently announced that India are slated to play three ODIs and three T20Is in September 2026, with the squad expected to arrive in Dhaka on August 28. The series had earlier been postponed due to unrest in the country.

Also READ: Jahnavi Mehta reveals why KKR spent INR 18 crore on Matheesha Pathirana at IPL 2026 Auction

NEW DELHI: Kolkata Knight Riders have officially confirmed that Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has been released from their squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season. The franchise shared the update through a press release, stating that the decision was taken after instructions from the IPL governing body. “Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL as the regulator of IPL has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season,” said in a statement.

“The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, upon the instruction of the Board of Control of Cricket in India.” “BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders a replacement player in line with IPL regulations, and further details will be communicated in due course.”After a strong showing in the Bangladesh Premier League, Mustafizur shared a message on social media on Friday. “Alhamdulillah for another milestone. 400 T20 wickets and a solid win against the Sylhet Titans. Always grateful to perform. Thanks to everyone for the love and support,” Mustafizur Rahman wrote on X. While he continues to perform well on the field, developments off it took a different turn. The BCCI had earlier stepped in after public and political reactions followed KKR’s decision to sign him at the IPL auction. The franchise had bought Mustafizur for Rs 9.20 crore, much higher than his base price of Rs 2 crore, after competing with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Soon after the signing, objections were raised by some political leaders and religious groups. Their concerns were linked to current India–Bangladesh relations and reports of unrest in the neighbouring country. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision and said KKR would be allowed to name a replacement player. “The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They can ask for a replacement if needed, and upon request, the BCCI will allow a replacement player,” Saikia told PTI on Saturday.

Hindu businessman Khokon Das, who was attacked with sharp weapons and set afire in Bangladesh, died on Saturday while receiving treatment in the Natioal Burn Institute in Dhaka.According to the news agency ANI, professor of the National Burn Institute Dr Shaon Bin Rahman confirmed his death.This comes three days after 50-year-old Khokon Chandra Das was reportedly waylaid, beaten and doused with petrol before being set ablazeAccording to the police, Das was a resident of Tiloi village in Koneshwar Union and ran a pharmacy along with a mobile banking business at Keurbhanga Bazar.On Wednesday night, after shutting his shop, he was returning home in an auto-rickshaw when the attackers stopped the vehicle on the Damudya–Shariatpur road near the market and assaulted him. According to Prothom Alo, the miscreants attacked him with sharp weapons before setting him on fire. In a desperate attempt to save himself, Das jumped into a nearby pond along the roadside.Hearing his cries, local residents rushed to the spot, forcing the attackers to flee.Locals later rescued Das and rushed him to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, where he was given first aid in the emergency ward.Sima Das, the victim’s wife, said the family was struggling to understand why he was targeted. “My husband returns home every night after closing his shop with the day’s sales money. On Wednesday night, criminals attacked him. He recognised two of the attackers, and because of that, they assaulted him with the intention to kill–hacking him and setting fire to his head and face after pouring petrol on him. We have no enemies in the area. We have no disputes with anyone over any matter. We cannot understand why the criminals suddenly targeted my husband.”This comes amid a series of violent incidents targeting members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Last month, two Hindu youths were lynched in separate incidents. Dipu Chandra Das, a garment factory worker in Mymensingh district, was beaten to death over alleged blasphemy charges on December 18, after which his body was reportedly hanged and set on fire.Meanwhile, a Hindu youth identified as Amrit Mondal was lynched in Hosendanga village of Kalimohor Union in Rajbari’s Pangsha sub-district over an alleged extortion dispute.These incidents have triggered widespread outrage and condemnation from political leaders, religious organisations and minority groups in both Bangladesh and India.

Mustafizur Rahman (Agency Photo)

NEW DELHI: Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has found himself at the centre of attention, both for his cricketing milestone and a growing controversy around his IPL participation. Amid the ongoing debate, Mustafizur took to social media to celebrate a personal achievement and his recent performance in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

After a strong outing against the Sylhet Titans, Mustafizur shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) that reflected gratitude and calm amid the noise.“Alhamdulillah for another milestone. 400 T20 wickets and a solid win against the Sylhet Titans. Always grateful to perform. Thanks to everyone for the love and support,” Mustafizur Rahman wrote on X.While Mustafizur continues to perform on the field, things have taken a different turn off it. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has asked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the Bangladeshi pacer ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season. This decision came after political pressure and public debate following KKR’s move to sign him at the IPL auction.KKR had bought Mustafizur for Rs 9.20 crore, well above his base price of Rs 2 crore, after a bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. The franchise saw him as an experienced overseas bowler who could strengthen their attack. However, soon after the signing, objections were raised by sections of the Bharatiya Janata Party and some religious groups. Their concerns were linked to the current strain in India–Bangladesh relations and reports of violence in Bangladesh. What began as a cricketing decision quickly turned into a sensitive political issue.BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the board’s decision and clarified that KKR would be allowed to sign a replacement player.“The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They can ask for a replacement if needed, and upon request, the BCCI will allow a replacement player,” Saikia told PTI on Saturday.When asked about the reason behind the call, he added, “Because of recent developments all across.”Despite the controversy, Mustafizur continues to make an impact in the BPL. He recently took three wickets for Sylhet Titans, showing that his focus remains firmly on cricket.

Choreographer-director Farah Khan recently welcomed Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, as the latest guest on her vlog. In a fun and unexpected moment, Farah brought along her cook, Dilip, to Gadkari’s Delhi residence, where Dilip jokingly made a rather direct request to the minister.

A warm and humorous welcome

As the vlog began, Farah greeted Nitin Gadkari with a handshake, while Dilip showed his respect by touching the minister’s feet. Introducing the moment with her trademark humour, Farah said, “Itne bade aadmi hamare vlog pe kabhi nahi aaye hain. Iski ek request hai. Ye baar-baar aapko irritate karega, aap sun lena.” (We have never had such a big personality on our vlog before. Dilip has a request, and he might keep irritating you—please do hear him out.)

Dilip’s straightforward demand

Without missing a beat, Dilip made his appeal, saying, “Sir, mere gaon mein na ek road banwa dijiye!” (Please get a road built in my village.) Dilip hails from Darbhanga in Bihar, making the request all the more personal.

Farah’s priceless reaction

Reacting instantly, Farah playfully smacked her forehead and quipped, “Aree! Sir itne bade-bade flyover, expressways bana rahe hain!” (He is busy building massive flyovers and expressways!) Dilip added that proper roads in his village would be a huge help as well, prompting Gadkari to smile at the earnest plea.

How Farah’s vlog journey began

Farah also revealed that her cooking vlogs started during the waiting period before her upcoming film went on floors. She launched her YouTube channel in 2024, with the cooking-centric content gradually building a loyal fanbase.Dilip’s candid exchanges and unfiltered charm quickly won hearts online, turning him into a viral sensation. Following his popularity, Dilip has appeared in multiple advertisements with Farah and even shared screen space with celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked a fresh debate around the future of ICC tournaments by delivering a blunt assessment of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Ashwin believes that the sheer frequency of ICC events, combined with one-sided fixtures involving vastly unequal teams, could significantly reduce fan interest in the marquee tournament.

Ravichandran Ashwin on why fans won’t watch T20 World Cup 2026

Ashwin did not mince his words while discussing the structure and appeal of modern ICC competitions. The former off-spinner argued that early-round matches featuring top-ranked nations against relatively inexperienced sides fail to capture the imagination of viewers.

According to Ashwin, contests such as India facing associate teams in the opening stages do little to build excitement. He remarked that such fixtures risk driving fans away rather than drawing them in, as the competitive balance is often missing. In his view, these mismatches undermine the very essence of a World Cup, which is meant to showcase high-intensity cricket at the highest level.

“No one is going to watch the ICC T20 World Cup this time. India vs USA, India vs. Namibia—these are games that will literally pull you away from the World Cup,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Loss of anticipation around global events

Ashwin also highlighted how the traditional charm of ICC tournaments has eroded over time. He recalled an era when World Cups were staged once every four years, allowing anticipation and narrative to build naturally. Back then, early-round clashes between heavyweight teams like India, England, Sri Lanka, or Australia were major attractions in themselves.

Now, however, Ashwin feels that the overexposure of global tournaments has dulled that excitement. With fans seeing World Cups and ICC events almost every year, the sense of occasion has diminished. The former India star suggested that scarcity once made these tournaments special, a factor that is largely missing in the current calendar.

“World Cups used to happen once every four years. Because of that, the interest is used to build. India used to play England or Sri Lanka in the first round, and that was a lot more fun,” added Ashwin.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin picks 2 standout players for India in 2025

Overcrowded ICC Schedule Under Scrutiny

Since 2010, ICC tournaments have been staged with remarkable regularity, with hardly a year passing without a major global event. The T20 World Cup scheduled for 2020 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and eventually held in 2021, followed by another edition in 2022. The ODI World Cup took place in 2023, the T20 World Cup followed in 2024, the Champions Trophy took place in 2025, and now another T20 World Cup arrives in 2026.

Also READ: 3 T20I superstars who bowed out before the T20 World Cup 2026

NEW DELHI: Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday welcomed BCCI’s decision to instruct Shah Rukh Khan owned Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rehman from their roster ahead of Indian Premier League.BJP leader Sangeet Som thanked BCCI for its decision and hailed it as a “victory of the Hindus of the entire nation.”

“Thanks to BCCI for its decision in view of the 100 crore Sanatanis of India,” Som said.“We said yesterday that cognisance will be taken of this matter because the sentiments of 100 crore people cannot be taken lightly. This is the victory of the Hindus of the entire nation,” he added.Earlier in the day, BCCI secretary Devjit Saikia said that the decision was taken “due to the recent development going all across.”“Due to the recent developments which is going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their player Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement,” Saikia told news agency ANI.Recently, spiritual leaders had launched a broadside against KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan in context of the recent targeting of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh.Devkinandan Thakur criticised Shah Rukh Khan after KKR acquired right-arm pacer Mustafizur for a massive amount of Rs 9.20 crore during the IPL auction.“In Bangladesh, Hindus are being brutally murdered, their homes are being burned, and their sisters and daughters are being raped. After witnessing such brutal killings, how can someone be so heartless, especially someone who calls himself the owner of a team? How can he be so cruel as to include a cricketer from that very country in his team?” he said.Meanwhile, Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, the Chief Imam, All India Imam Organisation, also demanded that Shah Rukh Khan apologise to the nation for inclusion of the Bangladesh pacer in the KKR Squad.Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi said that KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan should give a statement condemning the atrocities being committed against Hindus in Bangladesh and also remove Mustafizur from his team.“Does Shah Rukh Khan have no information regarding the atrocities being committed against Hindus in Bangladesh?… It is a matter of regret that despite having information regarding the atrocities being committed against Hindus in Bangladesh, KKR selected a Bangladeshi player in the IPL auction. Shah Rukh Khan should apologise to the nation…He should also give a statement condemning the atrocities being committed against Hindus in Bangladesh,” Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi told ANI.Earlier, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam had urged KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan to remove the Bangladeshi player from his team before the before he becomes a target.“When the entire country is enraged and angry at Bangladesh, anyone in India who has even the slightest connection to Bangladeshis could become a target of that anger. If there is a Bangladeshi in Shah Rukh Khan’s team, before he becomes a major target, we request that Shah Rukh Khan remove the Bangladeshi from his team. This will be for his own good and will also protect India’s interests,” Sanjay Nirupam told ANI.Reacting to the controversy, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate said the focus should be on who permitted Bangladeshi players to be included in the IPL auction in the first place.“First of all, I want to ask who put the Bangladeshi players in that pool. This question is for the BCCI and the ICC. Home Minister’s son, Jay Shah, should answer who put the Bangladeshi players in the pool where IPL players are bought and sold, the pool where the players’ auction takes place… he is the ICC’s chief and the main decision-maker in cricket all around the world,” she said.This comes as Bangladesh saw a series of violent incidents targeting members if Hindu community. Last month, two Hindu youths were lynched in separate incidents. Dipu Chandra Das, a garment factory worker in Mymensingh district, was beaten to death over alleged blasphemy charges on December 18, after which his body was reportedly hanged and set on fire.In another case, a Hindu youth identified as Amrit Mondal was lynched in Hosendanga village of Kalimohor Union in Rajbari’s Pangsha sub-district over an alleged extortion dispute.These incidents have triggered widespread outrage and condemnation from political leaders, religious organisations and minority groups in both Bangladesh and India.