Actors Jacqueline Fernandez and Saiee Manjrekar were among the many well-known faces who attended the premiere of Mahesh Manjrekar’s much-awaited Hindi play Animal at the Tata Theatre on Saturday night.Moments before stepping on stage, the actor-director admitted to feeling the pressure of opening night. “I don’t have butterflies in my stomach right now… I have dragons!!!” he said. “I feel all theatre artists should have that tension. Overconfidence always brings things down. This is one show I’ve wanted to do for a long time… and I just hope I succeed because it is not an easy play.”The premiere turned into a gripping theatrical evening, with Manjrekar delivering a powerful performance that kept the audience engaged for nearly two hours. The play is presented by AGP World and produced by theatre impresario Ashvin Gidwani. Written, directed and performed by Manjrekar, Animal is an intense one-man play that explores the slow erosion of the human spirit in the pursuit of ambition.At the centre of the narrative is Dattu, played by Manjrekar — a young man from a small town near Pandharpur who arrives in Mumbai chasing dreams of stardom. What begins as belief in the city and in himself gradually turns into a struggle for survival.Speaking about the play, Manjrekar described it as “a cartoonist’s take on life in the city.” “Thousands of people come to Mumbai because they believe it is the city of dreams,” he said. “But for every person who becomes successful here, there are countless others whose dreams shatter and turn into nightmares. This play is a tribute to everyone who comes to Mumbai to make a career or earn a living. It is a large-hearted city… but even a city has its limits.”Layered with satire, the play also weaves in observations on the political, financial, geopolitical and socio-cultural fabric of the country. Pop culture references, insider jokes about the film industry and witty nods to life in Mumbai drew enthusiastic responses from the audience. In a surprising twist, Manjrekar also sang and danced to multiple songs during the performance.Several personalities attended the premiere, including actors Siddharth Jadhav, Anusha Dandekar and Sumedh Mudgalkar. Manjrekar’s daughter Gauri Ingavale and son Satya Manjrekar were also present, while former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar attended with his wife Manali. For Saiee Manjrekar, watching her father perform was an emotional moment. “It was amazing,” she said. “I have been hearing about this project all my life. It’s his dream project. To see him, at this age, put in so much energy into a one-man show is such a proud moment for me. It’s incredibly inspiring.”After nearly nine years of discussion and preparation, Animal has finally reached the stage. The evening ended with a standing ovation as Manjrekar thanked his team. The play will next be staged on March 29 at the Sophia Bhabha Auditorium in Breach Candy.

NEW DELHI: The father of 25-year-old Tarun, who was killed in a brutal attack, has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter on Saturday. The family alleged that local police have neither shared details of the arrests made so far nor conducted a proper inquiry into the incident in the national capital.Father of the deceased, while speaking to ANI, said, “We demand that our son should get justice. The police have not conducted any inquiry or asked us about him. They are saying that they have arrested 5-6 people. They did not show us who they have arrested. We want a CBI inquiry. We even went to the police station yesterday, but they closed the doors. When we went to the streets to hold a protest, they resorted to lathicharge. As son as my son came, 15-20 people attacked him and killed him on the spot. All of them were roaming here, but the police did not arrest anyone.”

Security has been tightened in Delhi’s Uttam Nagar area after 25-year-old Tarun succumbed to injuries sustained during a fight between neighbours from different communities during Holi celebrations earlier this week.Tarun had been undergoing treatment following the altercation, which reportedly took place on March 4.According to Delhi Police, a dispute during Holi celebrations in Uttam Nagar escalated, leaving Tarun injured. He later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, and further investigations are ongoing.In the aftermath, Delhi Police have tightened security in the area to maintain law and order and prevent further tension.Deputy commissioner of police (DCP) of Dwarka district, Kushal Pal Singh, stated that adequate measures have been implemented to ensure peace in the locality.“In view of the incident that happened on 4th March, we have made adequate security arrangements. We have divided the area into zones, sectors and sub-sectors. Our motorcycles and vehicles are continuously patrolling,” the DCP said.He added that the police are also engaging with residents from both communities to ensure calm in the area.“We have also called people of both communities and appealed to them to maintain peace and order in the area. Apart from this, we also appeal to the people not to pay attention to rumours and not to support those who create trouble,” Singh said. (With agency inputs)

The excitement around the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has reached fever pitch as India prepare to face New Zealand in a high-voltage final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The defending champions, led by Suryakumar Yadav, have enjoyed a dominant campaign throughout the tournament and now stand just one win away from lifting the trophy for the second consecutive time.

India’s journey to the summit clash has been marked by consistent performances from both the batting and bowling units. However, as the team gears up for the biggest match of the tournament, discussions around the playing XI have intensified. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has also weighed in on the debate, suggesting a few bold changes that he believes could strengthen the team’s chances against the Black Caps.

Sunil Gavaskar questions Abhishek Sharma’s place in the final

One of the most surprising suggestions from Gavaskar was regarding young opener Abhishek Sharma. Despite being the No. 1 batter in the ICC T20 rankings, Gavaskar believes the left-hander should be left out of the playing XI for the final due to his repeated dismissals in similar fashion during the tournament. According to Gavaskar, bowlers have clearly identified a weakness in Abhishek’s technique and are repeatedly exploiting it.

“It’s a very tough call. Abhishek Sharma is the No. 1 batter in the ICC T20 rankings, but he hasn’t learned from his dismissals. He keeps getting out in the same region where his arms are cramped for room. Bowlers are targeting that area and forcing mistakes. My concern is that he either hasn’t adjusted yet or is unable to change his approach,” Gavaskar said, as quoted by India Today.

The legendary batter suggested that India could reshuffle their top order by bringing Ishan Kishan as opener alongside Sanju Samson, while middle-order power-hitter Rinku Singh could also be drafted into the playing XI.

“I would like to see Ishan Kishan open the batting with Sanju Samson, with Rinku Singh coming into the side. Rinku has that belief—you’ve probably seen the ‘God’s Plan’ tattoo on his body—and sometimes things just work out for players like him,” the legendary cricketer added.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Final: Broadcast, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, USA, UK & other countries

Gavaskar recommends Kuldeep Yadav over Varun Chakaravarthy

Gavaskar also recommended a change in India’s bowling department, urging the team management to replace out-of-form spinner Varun Chakaravarthy with left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav for the final.

According to him, Varun has struggled in the latter stages of the tournament, especially against stronger opposition. Gavaskar believes Kuldeep’s ability to generate turn even on flat surfaces could prove valuable on the large ground dimensions of the Narendra Modi Stadium.

“The other change I would consider is bringing in Kuldeep Yadav. Varun Chakravarthy’s confidence looks shattered at the moment. Since the Super Eight stage, when he faced stronger teams, he has struggled and conceded a lot of runs. At a ground like the Narendra Modi Stadium, with big boundaries, Kuldeep Yadav could be a good option because he can turn the ball even on flat surfaces,” stated Gavaskar.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money Breakdown: From Champions to Runner Ups to Group Stage Teams

President Droupadi Murmu and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (File photo)

Amid a political storm over alleged “lapses” during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to West Bengal, the Centre has asked the state government to submit a response by 5 pm on Sunday over suspected violations of protocol related to venue and route arrangements, sources told news agency PTI.In a letter to the West Bengal chief secretary, Union home secretary Govind Mohan asked the state to furnish a detailed explanation regarding alleged violations of the ‘Blue Book’ rules governing protocol, venue and route arrangements.The ‘Blue Book’ is a confidential document that outlines security and protocol rules for the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister and their families.President Murmu on Saturday expressed dismay over the low turnout at a tribal community event near Bagdogra airport and questioned the decision to shift the venue from Bidhannagar.She also noted the absence of West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and her ministers during her visit.Highly placed sources said the communication sent to the West Bengal chief secretary also sought a response on the absence of the chief minister, the chief secretary and the director general of police at the airport to receive the President, which is considered a serious violation of the Blue Book protocol.Officials said the Centre has also taken note that only Siliguri mayor Gautam Deb was present to receive the President at the airport, which is seen as a breach of protocol.According to PTI sources, the washroom arranged for the President reportedly did not have water, for which an explanation has been sought from the state government.The state has also been asked to explain why the route chosen by the administration for ferrying the President was allegedly littered with garbage.The letter further seeks details on the action taken against the Darjeeling district magistrate, the Siliguri police commissioner and the additional district magistrate, who appear to be directly responsible for the alleged violations.President Murmu had been invited to attend the annual programme of the tribal community, which was originally scheduled to be held at Bidhannagar in Siliguri.However, citing security and logistical reasons, authorities shifted the venue to Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport, officials said.When the President arrived at the venue on Saturday afternoon, only a handful of people were present. Siliguri mayor Gautam Deb was the only representative present at the airport to receive her.“Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. I do not know whether she is upset. Anyway, that does not matter. All of you stay well,” the President said.She also questioned the decision to shift the venue for the tribal community’s annual programme from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur, where the turnout was reportedly low.“Had the programme been held there (at Bidhannagar), it would have been better. There is ample space there and many people could have attended. But I do not know why the state administration did not permit the meeting there. Today’s programme is being held at such a place that it is difficult for people to come here. Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here,” Murmu said.According to protocol, the chief minister or a minister from the state government is usually present to receive the President.Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday described the alleged lapses during President Murmu’s visit as unfortunate, saying a high constitutional office must always be accorded the dignity it deserves.Prime Minister Narendra Modi also criticised the West Bengal government, calling the incident “shameful and unprecedented” and accusing the Trinamool Congress government of insulting the President during her visit to the state.

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday hailed women as the “greatest force for change” while extending his wishes on International Women’s Day.The Lok Sabha leader of opposition also shared a video capturing his conversation with young female students in Keralam.“The conversation with young students in Kerala was truly inspiring. Their confidence and determination to pursue their dreams show that women are the greatest force for change,” Gandhi, a former Lok Sabha MP from the state’s Wayanad seat, wrote in the post.The video showed Gandhi entering what appeared to be a school canteen and taking a seat at a table where several female students were gathered.One of the girls told him that, despite the number of women achievers India produces, she feels it is still “shameful” to be a woman in Indian society.He disagreed with her view and cited the example of legendary athlete PT Usha, who hails from Keralam.“What is wrong with running like a girl? What about PT Usha? She’s done pretty well. All this is happening because you are used to living in a male world, and already the male world is unfair to you. They’re making the rules. They’re saying what’s good and bad. You should make the rules. You should not be ashamed of being a woman,” the Congress’ former president said.He then recalled how in his own family, he was “outnumbered” by women, describing his grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, as the “boss of the family.”“Women are generally more intelligent than men, for the most part. Men are in a hurry, and they get blinded by silly things. Women think longer term—they don’t apply direct power, they apply indirect power. That’s more effective,” he added.Gandhi then asked what each of them want to be in future. He got a variety of answers, including one student who wanted to pursue research in medical physics, which she chose because she couldn’t opt for MBBS.He also expressed his support for campus politics, saying people should have some sense of what politics is.One student asked what change Gandhi would like to see in India in the next 10 years and how it could be achieved. The Raebareli MP replied that he would want all young people in India to do what they want, and not what others want them to do.“The only real thing you should do is to discover your uniqueness,” he stated.The video ended with students and canteen staff taking pictures with the politician.

T20 World Cup 2026: MS Dhoni arrives in Ahmedabad ahead of India vs New Zealand final

Former India captain MS Dhoni arrived in Ahmedabad on Sunday ahead of the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, where India will face New Zealand national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The 44-year-old had earlier watched India’s semi-final win over England in Mumbai and is likely to attend the title clash as well.Dhoni was present at the semi-final at Wankhede Stadium along with his wife Sakshi and several celebrities, including Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Anil Kapoor.

Cricketers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma were also among those who watched India beat England in a thrilling contest.India, now led by Suryakumar Yadav, will be aiming to defend their title and create history by becoming the first host nation to win the T20 World Cup and the first team to claim three titles. Dhoni had famously led India to their first T20 World Cup triumph in 2007, when they defeated Pakistan national cricket team in the final.Watch Dhoni arriving in Ahmedabad:New Zealand, meanwhile, are chasing their maiden T20 World Cup title after finishing runners-up in 2021. Both teams come into the final after impressive semi-final wins. New Zealand hammered South Africa thanks to a stunning 33-ball century from Finn Allen, while India posted 253/7 against England and secured a narrow victory.Historically, the Black Caps have had the upper hand in T20 World Cup meetings against India, winning in 2007, 2016 and 2021. However, India head into the final in strong form after a recent 4-1 T20I series win over New Zealand at home.

You don’t have permission to access “http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ashutosh-brahmachari-shankaracharya-avimukteshwaranand-man-who-accused-shankaracharya-of-child-abuse-attacked-during-train-journey-11184837” on this server.

Reference #18.56882c31.1772955639.797f72c0

https://errors.edgesuite.net/18.56882c31.1772955639.797f72c0

“The IDF will continue to operate relentlessly, day and night, out of a deep commitment to bringing all of Israel’s sons, the fallen and the missing, back home to Israel,” IDF said later. (Photo from X)

An Israeli special forces operation in eastern Lebanon aimed at locating the remains of missing Israeli airman Ron Arad left 41 people dead and 40 wounded, according to the Lebanese health ministry.The overnight operation targeted the town of Nabi Sheet in the Bekaa Valley and involved air strikes and ground clashes, leaving behind gutted buildings, torn-off roofs and scattered munitions around a large crater in the area.

“The sounds of the explosions were like something out of a movie,” resident Mohammed Mussa, 55, told Agence France-Presse during a media visit organised by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. “We later realised there was a commando operation under way,” he said.Residents said the raid triggered clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters in the area. The blasts were powerful enough to hurl a car onto the second floor of a nearby building, while several homes were heavily damaged.Lebanon’s health ministry said the strikes on Nabi Sheet and surrounding areas killed 41 people and injured 40 others.Israel’s military said it had issued evacuation warnings earlier on Friday, prompting residents to move children out of the town. “We prepared and evacuated the children from the town to protect them,” Nabi Sheet mayor Hani Moussawi said.The Israel Defense Forces confirmed on Saturday that it had carried out a special operation overnight in Lebanon in an attempt to locate Arad’s remains but failed to find any trace of the navigator, who has been missing since 1986.“The IDF will continue to operate relentlessly, day and night, out of a deep commitment to bringing all of Israel’s sons, the fallen and the missing, back home to Israel,” it said in a statement.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later said that although the mission did not succeed, Israel remained committed to finding all its missing servicemen.Arad was captured after ejecting from his aircraft over Lebanon in 1986, when his combat jet went down during a mission. He is widely presumed dead, but his remains have never been recovered.

You don’t have permission to access “http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/delhi-woman-on-solo-trip-hides-in-uttarakhand-forest-overnight-to-escape-rape-attempt-11182791” on this server.

Reference #18.56882c31.1772956840.79e242db

https://errors.edgesuite.net/18.56882c31.1772956840.79e242db