Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
INDIA's Clean Slate Studioz has unveiled a series of new initiatives as part of its principal partnership deal with Yorkshire county cricket club including funding free cricket kits for young female cricketers.
The announcements were made during the official unveiling of the Clean Slate branding on the east stand and main pavilion, now known as the Clean Slate Pavilion, at Headingley cricket ground by West Yorkshire mayor Tracey Brabin, according to a statement.
A recent survey found that more than one million girls lose interest in physical activity as teenagers, with 43 per cent saying they enjoyed sport in primary school but no longer felt inspired to play once they joined the senior school.
According to the BBC, more than half of girls in the UK aged between 12 and 16 do not play any sports.
During the event, Yorkshire women’s cricket team Northern Diamonds showcased their official match day kit with the Clean Slate sponsorship.
Founded by Karnesh Ssharma, brother of Bollywood star Anushka Sharma, Clean Slate, is the world’s only female-forward, female-first original-content OTT streaming platform scheduled for the first quarter of 2023.
In April, it became the first Indian business to land a sponsorship deal with a major sports venue in the UK.
Lord Kamlesh Patel (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Yorkshire county chairman Lord Patel has said that this is a positive step for the club and Yorkshire.
“Unveiling the branding at Headingley marks the official commencement of this exciting partnership between Yorkshire county cricket club and Clean Slate. We are so proud to be working alongside a vibrant Indian brand that knows how to entertain diverse communities and one which mirrors our vision for the future of Yorkshire," he said.
“The women’s game is such a vital component of an inclusive environment and is at the heart of our proud club’s future. Clean Slate’s financial support is a key enabler of its progress and also sends a message to young aspiring female cricketers that their participation is incredibly valued.
"As this relationship develops, it will bring further opportunities to our community, as Yorkshire aims to become a beacon for inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance."
Mayor Brabin said: “I am happy to welcome Clean Slate as principal partner across Yorkshire club and the women’s team Northern Diamonds, and hope this is the start of a long relationship between Clean Slate and the region.
“Following the successful visit by the High Commission of India to West Yorkshire last month, I want to foster even stronger international links between our incredible cultural and creative businesses and India. I hope Clean Slate is the first of many Indian businesses that see the value in partnering with organisations in our region.
“Sport, culture, and the creative sector can be a great force for promoting inclusivity. Clean Slate’s focus on putting women and diversity centre stage aligns with my goals as Mayor to make sure cultural activity for all is at the heart of our recovery and ongoing growth.”
Dr Shashank Vikram the consulate general of India, director of women’s cricket James Carr, managing director of Yorkshire cricket Darren Gough, Clean Slate founder Ssharma and co-founder Amreesh Chandra and Northern Diamonds team were also present during event.
Clean Slate also announced plans to explore a partnership between the Clean Slate foundation and the Yorkshire cricket foundation to build a community enterprise based in the county to be known as Clean House.
It will jointly promote, build, and invest in the community through film, arts, sports, and education. More details will be announced during a roundtable meeting on Tuesday (3) between Clean Slate, Yorkshire mayor, West Yorkshire combined authority and Leeds city region enterprise partnership (the LEP).
Ssharma said: “Supporting the Northern Diamonds was a key pillar of our partnership. Through our support, we have the vision to present more opportunities for young women and girls who dream of gracing the cricket field against the backdrop values of inclusivity, equality, and diversity.
“Clean Slate traditionally uses entertainment as a vehicle for empowering women in the film industry, but our mission transcends all forms of culture. We are passionate about inspiring more girls to feel they can pursue a journey in sport without any form of prejudice or financial barriers."
Chandra added: “Yorkshire is a cosmopolitan county where diversity is celebrated. The values of Clean Slate are strongly aligned with those of Yorkshire county and of course the wider community, which is why we felt so inspired to launch Clean House to form a physical hub and beacon of empowerment for the people of Yorkshire."
Demonstrators gather at the entrance of the parliament during a protest against corruption and government’s decision to block several social media platforms, in Kathmandu, Nepal September 8, 2025. (Photo: Reuters)
Thousands of young Nepalis march in Kathmandu against social media ban and corruption
Government blocks 26 unregistered platforms, citing fake news and fraud concerns
Police use tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons to disperse protesters
Critics accuse government of authoritarianism and failure to deliver on promises
THOUSANDS of young Nepalis marched in Kathmandu on Monday demanding that the government lift its ban on social media platforms and address corruption.
Nepal blocked access to 26 unregistered platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, on Friday. Popular platforms such as Instagram have millions of users in the country who rely on them for entertainment, news, and business. Authorities said the shutdown followed a Supreme Court order from September last year, which required companies to register in Nepal, appoint grievance officers, and establish local compliance.
The government said social media users with fake IDs had been spreading hate speech, fake news, and committing fraud. In a statement on Sunday, it said it respected freedom of thought and expression and was committed to "creating an environment for their protection and unfettered use".
Many demonstrators carried national flags and placards reading "Shut down corruption and not social media", "Unban social media", and "Youths against corruption". They began their rally with the national anthem before marching through the city.
"We were triggered by the social media ban but that is not the only reason we are gathered here," said student Yujan Rajbhandari, 24. "We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalised in Nepal."
Another student, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, said she opposed the "authoritarian attitude" of the government. "We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation," she said.
Protester Bhumika Bharati added: "There have been movements abroad against corruption and they (the government) are afraid that might happen here as well."
Since the ban, TikTok — still operational in Nepal — has carried viral videos comparing the lives of ordinary citizens with those of politicians’ children showing off luxury goods and vacations.
On Monday, thousands of youths, including students in school uniforms, tried to march to parliament but were stopped by police who had set up barbed wire barricades. Authorities said demonstrators attempted to break into parliament by pushing through police lines.
Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannons and batons to disperse the crowds, officials said. "We have imposed a curfew which will remain in force until 10 pm local time (1615 GMT) to bring the situation under control after protesters began to turn violent," said Muktiram Rijal, spokesperson for the Kathmandu district office.
Nepal has restricted social media platforms before. The Telegram messaging app was blocked in July over fraud and money laundering concerns, and TikTok was banned for nine months before being restored in August last year when it complied with local rules.
Many Nepalis believe corruption is widespread, and prime minister KP Sharma Oli’s government has been criticised by opponents for failing to deliver on its promises. About 90 per cent of Nepal’s 30 million people use the internet.
The protests come as governments worldwide, including the US, EU, Brazil, India, China and Australia, have been tightening oversight of social media and Big Tech, citing concerns over misinformation, privacy, online harm and security. Critics warn that such measures risk limiting free expression, while regulators argue that stricter controls are needed.
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The holy town of Ambaji witnessed a spiritually significant day on Sunday as His Holiness Siri Rajrajeshwar Guruji, head of the International Siddhashram Shakti Centre, London, performed the Dhwaja ritual at the historic Ambaji Temple in Gujarat, one of the most revered Shakti Peeths of India.
Guruji, who travelled especially from London to be part of the festivities, offered prayers to Goddess Amba and hoisted the sacred flag, a symbol of divine strength, victory, and eternal devotion. Speaking about the ritual, he reminded devotees that the dhwaja inspires courage, faith, and a constant remembrance of the divine in everyday life.
Adding to the spiritual significance of the day, Guruji also personally served Bhandara (community meal) to devotees gathered at the temple premises.
The International Siddhashram Shakti Centre in Harrow witnessed an inspiring and environmentally responsible celebration of Ganesh Utsav 2025, which concluded on Saturday, 6 September, with the Ganesh Visarjan ritual performed on the sacred occasion of Anant Chaturdashi.
What made this year’s celebration exceptional was the decision to conduct the Visarjan in a custom-built artificial water pool at the temple premises. After the ceremonial parikrama, the idol of Lord Ganesh was immersed with devotion, ensuring that the environment and public water bodies remained protected. The move also underlined compliance with local regulations, offering a model of how cultural traditions can be maintained with modern responsibility.
HH Siri Rajrajeshwar Guruji reminded devotees that true devotion also lies in mindful practice: “Our faith must go hand in hand with respect for the environment and the laws of the land. By celebrating responsibly, we honour our deities and set a positive example for other communities.”
The ten-day festival at Siddhashram was filled with devotional activities, including Ganesh Mantra Sadhana and the chanting of Hanuman Chalisa on 30 August, followed by the vibrant Annakut Darshan of Lord Ganesh on 2 September, which drew large numbers of devotees.
With soulful bhajans, prayers, and rituals held daily, the festival reaffirmed Siddhashram’s role as a centre of spiritual growth and cultural preservation in London. The eco-conscious Visarjan, in particular, stood out as a symbol of blending tradition with responsibility, inspiring worshippers to celebrate with both devotion and awareness.
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Rick Davies, British rock legend of Supertramp, dies at 81
Rick Davies, co-founder of Supertramp, has died at 81 after a long battle with cancer
The British musician wrote and sang classics including Goodbye Stranger and Bloody Well Right
Davies kept the band alive after Roger Hodgson’s departure in 1983 and toured until 2022
His music, especially Breakfast in America, continues to inspire generations worldwide
Rick Davies' death has left a profound mark on the music world, as fans remember the Supertramp co-founder who turned a progressive rock outfit into one of the most successful British bands of the late 1970s. Alongside partner Roger Hodgson, he penned songs that defined an era, while his unique keyboard style helped shape rock history. Beyond his artistry, Davies’ determination kept Supertramp going long after internal disputes and creative differences split the group.
Rick Davies, British rock legend of Supertramp, dies at 81 Getty Images
Who was Rick Davies in Supertramp?
Born in Swindon, England in 1944, Rick Davies developed an early fascination with jazz and blues before moving into rock. In 1969, he placed an advert to form a new band, eventually bringing in Roger Hodgson. Together, they rebranded as Supertramp in January 1970.
While Hodgson’s higher-pitched vocals carried The Logical Song and Give a Little Bit, Davies’ deeper tones became the backbone of tracks like Bloody Well Right, Rudy and Goodbye Stranger. His mastery of the Wurlitzer electric piano gave Supertramp its signature sound, combining pop hooks with progressive structures.
John Helliwell, Rick Davies, Roger Hodgson, Bob Siebenberg and Dougie ThomsonGetty Images
What were Supertramp’s biggest hits?
Supertramp first tasted commercial success with the 1974 album Crime of the Century, which featured Davies’ single Bloody Well Right. The band’s true breakthrough, however, came in 1979 with Breakfast in America.
The record sold more than 30 million copies worldwide, topping charts across the US and Europe. Its singles The Logical Song, Take the Long Way Home, and Goodbye Stranger remain radio staples. The album earned the group two Grammy Awards, strengthening their place in rock history. Davies’ role as songwriter, singer and pianist was central to this success, his songs carrying a soulful, world-weary edge that contrasted with Hodgson’s more whimsical lyrics.
By the early 1980s, tensions between Davies and Hodgson intensified over songwriting royalties and creative direction. Following the release of Famous Last Words in 1982, Hodgson quit the band.
While many assumed this would end Supertramp, Davies chose to carry on. He released four more albums under the band’s name, including 2002’s Slow Motion. Though the band never again reached the commercial heights of Breakfast in America, they maintained a devoted fan base. Davies’ leadership ensured the group’s legacy endured, with tours continuing into the 2000s.
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How did Rick Davies spend his later years?
In 2015, Davies was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting bone marrow. This forced him to cancel a planned reunion tour. Despite his illness, he continued performing with local musicians in the US under the name Ricky and the Rockets, entertaining fans with blues and rock classics.
Davies died on 5 September at his home in Long Island, aged 81. A statement from the band said: “His soulful vocals and unmistakable touch on the Wurlitzer became the heartbeat of the band’s sound… Rick’s music and legacy continue to inspire many and bears testament to the fact that great songs never die, they live on.”
Rick Davies, Supertramp’s guiding force, dies at 81Getty Images
He is survived by his wife Sue, who had been Supertramp’s manager since 1984.
Apple to unveil the iPhone 17 range, including a new ultrathin iPhone 17 Air.
Updates expected across Apple Watch, AirPods, iPad Pro, Vision Pro, Apple TV, and HomePod mini.
Major redesign for iPhone Pro models, marking Apple’s biggest hardware refresh in five years.
Event takes place on Tuesday, 9 September, ahead of the holiday season.
Apple’s biggest launch of the year
Apple will host its annual product showcase on Tuesday, 9 September, at Apple Park. The company is expected to unveil its iPhone 17 line-up, alongside new Apple Watches, AirPods, and updates to other devices. The event comes at a time when Apple is facing tougher competition from Samsung, Google and Chinese manufacturers, while lagging behind rivals in generative AI development.
iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max and iPhone 17 Air
Apple will launch four iPhone models this year. The highlight is the iPhone 17 Air, an ultrathin model measuring 5.5mm, about one-third thinner than the iPhone 16 Pro. Its slim design results in reduced battery life and a single rear camera but retains the A19 processor, a 6.6-inch display, USB-C, ProMotion support and eSIM-only connectivity.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will see a major redesign for the first time since 2020, including a new camera layout, enhanced video capabilities, and improved battery life. The Pro models will return to an aluminium frame for better heat management and lighter weight. They also gain the A19 Pro processor, a 48-megapixel telephoto lens, variable aperture, and simultaneous front-and-back video recording.
The standard iPhone 17 will move to a 6.3-inch display with ProMotion for the first time on a non-Pro model.
Apple will also launch new accessories, including redesigned cases and colour updates such as light blue for the Air and orange for the Pro models.
Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will receive its first major update since 2022, with a larger display, a new S11 chip, 5G RedCap support and satellite-enabled messaging.
The Series 11 will retain the design of the Series 10 but gain a brighter screen and refreshed colour options.
The budget-friendly Apple Watch SE, priced from £249, is also expected to receive a faster chip and new displays, maintaining its role as an entry-level option for younger users.
AirPods Pro 3
Apple will update its premium wireless earbuds for the first time in three years. The AirPods Pro 3 are expected to feature a smaller charging case, a new pairing system and the addition of health-tracking functions such as a heart rate monitor. They will also support live translation features through iOS 26.
iPad Pro, Vision Pro, Apple TV and HomePod Mini
Apple is preparing incremental updates across its wider product portfolio:
iPad Pro: A new model with the M5 chip and a secondary front-facing camera.
Vision Pro: The first update since launch in 2024, swapping the M2 chip for newer options, and possibly introducing a space black colour.
Apple TV: The first upgrade since 2022, with a new processor to support Apple Intelligence features, including a revamped Siri.
HomePod mini: A refreshed version with improved sound, new wireless chips, and additional colours, including red.
Coming soon
Looking ahead, Apple is developing the AirTag 2 with improved wireless tracking, a foldable iPhone expected next year, and a 20th anniversary glass iPhone planned for 2027.