The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been as much about the vibes as it is about the yorkers, and the 2026 pre-season captains’ meet proved exactly that. While the official photoshoot is usually a formal affair of blazers and stern expressions, the 2026 edition took a hilarious turn when Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Axar Patel crossed paths with the newly-minted Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar.

Axar Patel can’t take eyes off Rajat Patidar’s ‘Dhurandhar’ hairstyle at IPL 2026 captains’ event

The highlight of the evening wasn’t the gleaming silver trophy, but rather Patidar’s dramatic aesthetic transformation. Sporting flowing, long locks, Patidar looked less like a middle-order batter and more like a Bollywood protagonist. Axar, known for his dry wit, couldn’t help but pause the shoot to christen Patidar the “Dhurandhar Boy,” a cheeky nod to Ranveer Singh’s rugged, high-octane look in the cinematic hit Dhurandhar: The Revenge.

The exchange, captured in a behind-the-scenes clip that has since shattered social media engagement records, shows Axar circling Patidar with a look of genuine disbelief. “Ye hairstyle ka raaz kya hai?” (What’s the secret behind this hairstyle?), Axar was heard quipping, while Patidar, usually the most soft-spoken man in the room, laughed off the comparison to the silver screen’s fiercest warrior.

Here’s the video:

What caught Axar Patel’s eye in Rajat Patidar’s new hairstyle? 👀#CaptainsDay | #TATAIPL 2026 👉 Starts SAT, 28th MAR, 5:30 PM pic.twitter.com/Or3OFSddIc

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 26, 2026

Also READ: IPL 2026: Ananya Birla addresses speculation around renaming RCB after massive ₹16,700 crore sale

Patidar’s bold vision for RCB’s title defense in IPL 2026

While the “Dhurandhar” comparison provided the laughs, Patidar revealed there is a strategic—and perhaps superstitious, method to his makeover. In a recent segment of RCB Bold Diaries, the skipper addressed the viral sensation surrounding his hair with a remark that has sent the RCB ‘12th Man Army’ into a frenzy.

“I want a photo with this hairstyle holding the trophy, it’s a new look for a new challenge. We are here to keep the cup in Bengaluru,” Patidar joked, though his eyes carried the intensity of a defending champion.

Having led RCB to their historic maiden title the previous year, Patidar is under immense pressure to deliver a double. In the world of professional sports, a change in appearance often signals a shift in mindset. For Patidar, the long hair represents a warrior mode as RCB prepare to fend off nine other hungry franchises.

As the DC and RCB captains shared a hug after their playful exchange, the moment served as a reminder of the unique camaraderie within the IPL. While they will be fierce rivals on the pitch, the Dhurandhar banter humanizes these superstars, proving that even under the crushing weight of captaincy, there’s always room for a well-timed joke about a haircut.

Also READ: Vijay Mallya reflects on RCB’s historic ₹16,700 sale ahead of IPL 2026

Difficult and sensitive issues in the relationship ought to be addressed forthright in all sincerity and candour, be in trade, security or sharing natural resources, said Bangladesh high commissioner Riaz Hamidullah on Thursday. Speaking on Bangladesh’s 56th independence and national day, Hamidullah said that the future of the 2 countries rests firmly on the people’s shared belief in democracy and common developmental aspirations. “Such should be our shared future, where none would prosper as others around lag behind or stay constrained. Our shared values should call for appreciating others’ needs, endowment and expectations.” said Hamidullah, adding it’s possible for the 2 sides to chart a pathway towards inter-dependent relations for generations, beyond all differences. The national day event was attended by MoS (MEA) Kirti Vardhan Singh and foreign secretary Vikram Misri.The high commissioner said PM Tarique Rahman had reiterated commitment to maintaining a pragmatic, mutually respectful and beneficial partnership with India, for shared prosperity. “As we speak, both our countries navigate complexities and uncertainties in the global order. While we foresee tumultuous times ahead, Bangladesh looks forward to walk and work together to preserve the values and principles of open regionalism and multilateralism, for both as responsive and responsible nations,” he said. Recalling the 1971 War of Liberation, Hamidullah said Bangladesh remembers the women and men who withstood a “genocide, for standing against the Pakistani occupying forces, merely to uphold their identity and dignity, their yearning for freedom and sovereignty”. “We remember so many across India who stood by us – emotionally, physically, materially – in West Bengal, Tripura, other parts of the North-East, and beyond. We remember so much of support and succour provided to the young Mukti Bahini Force Commanders in India,” said Hamidullah. Rahman had on Wednesday called for the establishment of the Liberation War’s spirit of “equality, human dignity and social justice”, as the nation observed Genocide Day on Wednesday. The Pakistani army had launched Operation Searchlight on the same day to suppress the Bengali people’s calls for self-determination in erstwhile East Pakistan, killing over 20,000 people in Dhaka alone.

India defeat Pakistan in SAFF U20 C’ship opener to secure semi-final spot

India delivered a dominant performance to defeat Pakistan 3-0 in their opening Group B clash of the SAFF U20 Championship on Thursday, sealing a place in the semi-finals with a game to spare. Forward Omang Dodum starred with a second-half brace, finding the net in the 64th and 88th minutes, after Vishal Yadav had put India ahead as early as the third minute. The victory ensured a perfect start for India and confirmed their progression to the knockout stage. Pakistan, meanwhile, were knocked out of the tournament after suffering their second straight defeat, having earlier lost to Bangladesh. India will now take on Bangladesh on Saturday in a match that will determine the Group B toppers. India started aggressively and nearly opened the scoring within two minutes. Vishal Yadav broke down the right flank and sent in a threatening cross for Dodum, but the chance went begging. The opening goal arrived soon after. Gurnaj Singh Grewal spotted Yadav’s run and delivered a lofted ball over the defence. Yadav controlled it well and saw his initial effort blocked, but reacted quickly to slot the rebound home with his left foot at the near post. The early breakthrough boosted India’s confidence, although Pakistan grew into the game and began testing the defence. They came close to levelling the score on two occasions, only to be denied by goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, who made two crucial saves. India capitalised on those missed chances in the second half, doubling their lead through a swift counter-attack. Samson Ahongshangbam carried the ball forward from defence before switching play to Rishi Singh Ninthoukhongjam. Rishi then set up Dodum, who beat goalkeeper Zulqurnain to the ball and headed it in. With a two-goal advantage, India controlled proceedings while Pakistan searched for a response. The Indian backline remained organised, restricting further threats. In the closing stages, Muhammad Junaid fouled Prashan Jajo inside the box, leading referee Virendha Rai to award a penalty. Dodum stepped up and converted emphatically in the 88th minute to complete his brace and seal the result. The convincing win gives India strong momentum heading into their final group match against Bangladesh.

You don’t have permission to access “http://www.ndtv.com/world-news/us-israel-iran-war-live-news-mobilises-over-1-million-fighters-for-possible-ground-war-with-us-report-11271396” on this server.

Reference #18.27fdd417.1774552309.48b41844

https://errors.edgesuite.net/18.27fdd417.1774552309.48b41844

A brother-sister duo were formally charged for allegedly placing an IED at a US military base which is home to United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and Special Operations Command, as confirmed by the FBI on Thursday.“An IED was placed at MacDill Air Force Base – home to CENTCOM and US Special Operations Command. A brother and sister have now been indicted. One is in custody for accessory and evidence tampering and the primary suspect is charged with explosives offenses and is currently in China,” said FBI director Kash Patel, while sharing a Fox News Article about the incident on X.“This FBI, working with our partners, will continue pursuing all those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice, no matter where they are,” he further added.Alen Zheng, suspected of planting the device on the Florida base, is currently in China and faces multiple charges, including attempted destruction of government property using fire or explosives, as well as making and possessing an unregistered destructive device, according to FBI.Authorities have also arrested his sister, Ann Mary Zheng. She has been charged with being an accessory after the fact and with evidence tampering.“Today’s indictments are the result of tremendous investigative work from our FBI teams and great coordination from our state, local, and federal partners across the board,” said Kash Patel said in a statement to Fox News Digital.“No one who targets our brave service members and military facilities will ever get away with it — and this FBI will pursue all those responsible for the incident at MacDill Air Force Base to the ends of the earth,” he added.This comes asFBI’s Tampa field office, on March 16, reported the discovery of a suspicious package outside the visitor center at MacDill Air Force Base.The installation serves as the headquarters of CENTCOM, which is overseeing Operation Epic Fury against Iran. It is also home to US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), responsible for coordinating special operations forces across the Department of Defense.

Siddaramaiah with DKS (File photo)

NEW DELHI: The Karnataka government’s growing expenditure on welfare schemes has placed pressure on its finances, forcing cuts in some ongoing programmes, the Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) said in its report for the 2024-25 fiscal, tabled in the Assembly on Thursday.

Guarantee schemes consume significant revenue

The CAG noted that the state spent Rs 52,525 crore on five guarantee schemes — Shakti, Gruha Lakshmi, Gruha Jyoti, Yuva Nidhi and Anna Bhagya, in 2024-25. The report said this accounted for around 20% of revenue receipts and 27% of the state’s own revenue, highlighting the schemes’ heavy burden on the budget.“Though the revenue growth is stable, it is insufficient to absorb the recurring costs of the guarantee schemes and hence the state needs to rely on borrowings to fund the guarantee schemes,” the report said. During 2024-25, while the state’s revenue rose by 10.63%, its expenditure grew by 14.99%, largely due to the guarantee schemes.

Cuts to other programmes and rising borrowings

The CAG highlighted that rising subsidies compelled the government to reduce funds for some ongoing programmes, including nutrition, assistance to local bodies, gram panchayats in rural development programmes and urban development initiatives.The mismatch between receipts and expenditure contributed to a revenue deficit of Rs 20,834 crore, while the fiscal deficit rose from Rs 65,522 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 85,030 crore in 2024-25, reported news agency PTI. To bridge the gap, the state undertook net market borrowings of Rs 71,525.15 crore, up Rs 8,525.15 crore from the previous year.

Concerns over capital expenditure and debt servicing

While overall capital expenditure rose by Rs 5,786 crore, the report said actual investment in infrastructure increased by only Rs 3,284 crore after adjusting for central assistance, investments, and off-budget borrowing. The CAG warned that this “compression in gross capital formation may prove detrimental to future growth prospects.”It further noted that higher borrowing would increase debt servicing obligations, which could crowd out spending on developmental, infrastructure, and welfare measures. The report cautioned that continued borrowing growth could risk breaching the Karnataka Fiscal Responsibility Act (KFRA) fiscal targets.

Mumbai: Bombay high court has directed the railways to grant Rs 80,000 compensation to a man who fell off a running train while sitting near the door.The Central Railway said no compensation could be awarded as it was a “self-inflicted injury”, which under the rules excludes compensation.The passenger, Rohidas Kumavat, was travelling by Guwahati Express train from Manmad to Jalgaon. When the train was entering Jalgaon station, he said, “due to the rush, his hands slipped” and he fell from the running train, leading to a head and shoulder injury. The train had no halt at Jalgaon.Justice Jitendra Jain, said long-distance trains have no display board about halts, “if a person boards a train and train does not have halt at the railway station where he wants to de-board, no fault can be attributed to such a passenger”.But Justice Jain said, “It is advisable to wait till the train halts at the next railway station and pay necessary fine for travelling beyond the destination for which the ticket was purchased,'” adding, “I am conscious that at that point of time, a human being may take steps to risk the life, but it is at that point of time that test of mental balance is tested. This is required in the larger interest of the dependents of the passenger. The railway authorities should introduce a public announcement system like that in Vande Bharat train, in all the trains to reduce such incidents.'”The Supreme Court said in 2010 if a person sitting or standing near the door accidentally falls down, it would not be a case of suicide, self-inflicted injury, criminal act, etc.The HC said it was possible the passenger thought the train would halt at Jalgaon and, on realising it wasn’t, an attempt to alight would naturally lead to “some injury”.Justice Jain said he could have waited for the next railway station to de-board the moving train, but at that point of time, a person loses his mental balance and in panic tries to de-board the moving train without there being any intention of “self-inflicted injury”.“No person in such a situation would do any act to impose upon him ‘self-inflicted injury’ and in some cases, it is also possible that he may go unscathed,” added the HC.

White House Official Page Posts Strange Videos Amid US‑Iran Conflict/ X

As tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, a pair of unexplained videos posted by the White House late on March 25 has triggered widespread confusion online, with viewers trying to connect the timing to ongoing military operations, diplomatic signals and even potential announcements. The posts, brief and without context, appeared just hours after a forceful White House briefing on the war and fresh remarks from Donald Trump, amplifying speculation about what, if anything, might be “launching”.

Two short videos, one deleted, and no clear explanation

While the administration has gained a track record of posting bizarre videos in recent days, including clips mixing real war footage with memes, Hollywood action scenes and video‑game or anime imagery related to the Iran conflict, this latest clip stands out. Unlike previous posts that had a visible narrative or theme, this one lacks any clear context, making it feel peculiar and vague, giving the impression it might have been accidental or even hacked.The first video was posted at around 9:15 p.m. EST on the White House’s official X account. Shot on what appears to be a phone camera pointed towards the ground, it shows a woman’s black boots and part of a dress.A female voice is heard asking, “It’s so cool. It’s launching soon, right?” while an off-camera male voice replies “‘yes’.” The only on-screen text reads: “sound on.” The clip was deleted roughly 90 minutes later, but had already begun circulating widely across social media. A second video followed at around 10 p.m. EST and remains online. Lasting about four seconds, it shows a blank, dark screen interrupted by a phone notification sound. Static briefly flickers across the frame, and for a moment an American flag appears before fading out again. One detail drew particular attention: the flag’s red and white stripes appeared vertical rather than horizontal, prompting further speculation that the imagery might carry some coded or symbolic meaning.The post, captioned with only a phone and speaker emoji, offered no explanation. Together, the two clips amassed millions of views within hours, with the second video alone crossing tens of millions of impressions.

White House response adds to the mystery

When asked for clarification, a White House spokesperson told People: “I wonder what’s launching soon!,”offering no real answers and leaving the question unresolved. There was no indication that the accounts had been compromised, and officials did not suggest the posts were accidental. The lack of explanation, combined with the deletion of the first clip, has left the posts open to interpretation.

Online theories range from apps to military strikes

The absence of context quickly turned the clips into a blank canvas for speculation. Some users suggested the posts could be teasing a new government app or communications platform. Others believed the videos might be linked to a space launch, pointing to Artemis II, which is expected to send astronauts deeper into space and could launch as early as April. More alarmed interpretations connected the phrase “launching soon” to the ongoing conflict, with some users asking whether it referred to a missile strike or escalation in the war. “What’s launching??? A missile? An app? A mission??” one user wrote.Several users also posted slowed-down versions and screenshots, trying to decipher blurred flashes on the screen, interpreting them as possible numbers, letters, or cryptic codes. Many tried hard to figure out what was seen, analyzing frames frame by frame in search of hidden meaning. Others dismissed the posts as overdramatic or poorly timed, with one comment suggesting the White House communications team had been “binge too many spy thrillers” and calling the posts “unnecessary drama” during an active conflict. More outlandish theories, including references to nuclear weapons or even extraterrestrial activity, also surfaced, though largely in jest.

Posted against the backdrop of a widening conflict

The timing of the posts has been central to the reaction. Earlier on March 25, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered a forceful briefing, describing the scale of US military action against Iran. “The United States military continues to decimate the terrorist Iranian regime’s offensive and defensive capabilities,” she said. Leavitt claimed US forces had struck 9,000 targets and destroyed 140 naval vessels, calling it “the largest elimination of a navy over a three-week period since World War 2”. She also issued a warning tied to ongoing negotiations: “There does not have to be any more death and destruction. But if Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be, President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have been hit before. “President Trump does not bluff and is prepared to unleash hell.” The briefing came amid reports that Iran had rejected a 15-point proposal from Washington aimed at ending the war.

Trump’s latest remarks and stalled negotiations

On the morning following the videos, Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, intensifying his rhetoric around the negotiations. “The Iranian negotiators are very different and ‘strange’. They are ‘begging’ us to make a deal… and yet they publicly state that they are only ‘looking at our proposal’. WRONG!!!” he wrote. “They better get serious soon, before it is too late, because once that happens, there is NO TURNING BACK, and it won’t be pretty!”

Truth Social @Donald J. Trump

According to Iranian state media, Tehran has rejected the US proposal and instead issued its own five-point framework, reportedly including demands for guarantees against renewed hostilities, reparations, and control over the Strait of Hormuz.