MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson (Image credit: CSK)

A simple gesture off the field once again showed why Sanju Samson continues to win hearts — even before playing a single game for Chennai Super Kings. As Samson begins a new chapter in yellow ahead of IPL 2026, he has already been making the most of his time alongside MS Dhoni — sharing nets, engaging in cricketing conversations and learning from one of the game’s greats. The wicketkeeper-batter has also been seen accompanying Dhoni at events, soaking in the experience. But it was during one such event that Samson’s humility stood out.

After Dhoni signed a bat, organisers requested Samson to do the same. The former Rajasthan Royals captain politely declined, choosing to let the moment remain about the CSK legend. Dhoni, however, ensured Samson eventually added his autograph — a small moment that resonated widely with fans.Fresh off a stellar ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, where he played a key role in India’s title-winning run, Samson now gears up for his first season with CSK after a major move from Rajasthan Royals.Speaking about the opportunity to share the dressing room with Dhoni, Samson said, “I have spoken to Mahi bhai (Dhoni) over the phone and interacted with him, but playing with him as part of a team will be great. I see it as an opportunity to learn from him.”“(I am) looking forward to playing for CSK, I feel grateful for the love and attention I have been getting from fans,” he added.Samson’s journey with CSK will begin with an emotional clash against his former franchise, as Chennai take on Rajasthan Royals in their opening game on March 30 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.“This is the first time I will play against Rajasthan Royals, but I don’t let emotions rule me on the field. I left Rajasthan Royals because I felt my time in the team was over. Even if we come up against them now, I will play my best cricket,” Samson said.High on confidence after being named Player of the Tournament in India’s T20 World Cup triumph — sealed with a dominant win over New Zealand — Samson believes the momentum is with him.“I wasn’t very confident when I left home to play in the World Cup, but the universe had other plans; I played well and the reception has been great,” said Samson.

MUMBAI: The number of autonomous colleges in Maharashtra has more than tripled over the past five years, rising from 100 in 2020 to 314 in 2025. Mumbai University accounts for the highest number in the state with 130 autonomous colleges, followed by Savitribai Phule Pune University with 74. Of the 314 colleges, 150 are arts, science and commerce colleges and others which come under the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE).Following the easing of norms by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 2023, a growing number of colleges have been seeking academic autonomy to revise syllabi, introduce new courses and conduct their own examinations. In 2023, the minimum ‘A’ grade requirement in NAAC was removed, allowing all accredited colleges to apply for autonomy. As per the revised UGC regulations, a college with 10 years of existence and accreditation from NAAC or the National Board of Accreditation (for three programmes) is eligible to apply. Earlier, the 2018 UGC notification mandated an ‘A’ grade in NAAC as a prerequisite. Educationists say the change has enabled several institutions, including those with lower NAAC grades, to seek autonomous status.“Autonomy, in the past, was considered as a revolutionary change and a boon to students who could select courses as per their choice. Autonomous colleges were able to introduce innovative, relevant and tailor-made courses to suit different segments of students. The norms for eligibility were stricter,” said academic and former dean of commerce, Mumbai University, Madhu Nair. With rising numbers, concerns have also been raised about possible dilution of academic standards and fee increases.Colleges affiliated with Mumbai University have seen the steepest rise. The number of autonomous institutions under the university increased more than threefold—from 39 in 2020 to 130 in 2025—according to data compiled by the Department of Higher and Technical Education from the UGC portal. This has contributed significantly to the overall growth of autonomous colleges in the state.In Mumbai, St Xavier’s College became the first institution to receive autonomous status in 2010 and, for some time, remained the only one. Leveraging this status, it introduced interdisciplinary learning by allowing students to choose a subject from another discipline in their second year. This model has since gained wider acceptance under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and remains central to its framework.Father Frazer Mascarenhas, former principal of St Xavier’s College during whose tenure the institution became autonomous, supports the concept. He said, “I think all colleges should opt for autonomy, because it is a means to achieve quality if honestly pursued. Monitoring and accountability are a part of the autonomy structure. As for fees, for aided autonomous colleges, major increase in fees is not possible, since grants are being received.“Nair, however, cautioned, “Relaxing the norms for granting autonomy and the absence of a continuous and meticulous check and balance system has resulted in a possibility of colleges surpassing the university norms and profiteering. Some have even diluted the standard of passing and examination norms to suit their convenience.”He further said, “Mumbai University, though overburdened with eight lakh students has always been able to command respect both in India and abroad. If autonomous colleges deviate from the university regulations like eligibility of admission, promotion to next year/ ATKT rules, dilute evaluation standards etc may result into creating graduates and post graduates who are not up to the mark. In that situation, the degrees given in the name of the university, and therefore, its reputation, may be at stake.” The only solution is a careful selection of deserving institutions for grant of autonomy followed by continuous monitoring of autonomous colleges to prevent misuse of autonomy, he said.Educationist and former vice-chancellor of North Maharashtra University, RS Mali, though, that quality of education has dropped across colleges, irrespective of autonomy. “It has become difficult to get students in classrooms. There is no seriousness. I have not noticed a drastic change in examination results of colleges even two years after autonomy. As for fees, students will not go to colleges if they fail to provide quality education in the long run. Colleges know that they will not get students if the fees are on the higher side,” said Mali, adding that the responsibility lies with all stakeholders to maintain standards.NEP 2020 recommends phasing out the affiliation system and encouraging autonomous and stand-alone degree-awarding institutions. Under the policy, top colleges under Mumbai University are gradually moving towards empowered autonomy, which enables them to award joint degrees with the affiliating university, distinguishing them from regular autonomous institutions.

Akshay Kumar may be known for his high-energy performances and action-packed roles, but away from the arc lights, he prefers a life rooted in calm and simplicity. The actor spends his downtime in a stunning sea-facing home in Mumbai, where luxury meets tranquillity. His residence offers a glimpse into a lifestyle that balances stardom with serenity.

A dream address in Juhu

As reported by Economic Times and Housing.com, located in one of Mumbai’s most elite neighbourhoods, Akshay’s duplex home in Juhu is reportedly valued at around Rs 80 crore. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the property offers breathtaking views and a serene environment that feels far removed from the chaos of the city. Every morning begins with the soothing sound of waves, turning the house into a peaceful retreat rather than just a celebrity residence.