England seek clarity on Pakistan tour after reports of venue changes
Currently, England are scheduled to play the first Test in Multan on October 7, followed by games in Karachi and Rawalpindi.
England captain Ben Stokes (l) puts his feet up on the team balcony alongside coaches Paul Collingwood (r) and Brendon McCullum during day one of the First Test between England and Sri Lanka on August 21. (Photo: Getty Images)
By EasternEyeSep 06, 2024
ENGLAND are seeking clarification regarding their upcoming Test tour of Pakistan, following reports suggesting that matches could be moved to another country.
Media reports from the region indicate that the schedule for the three-match series, set for next month, might change due to construction work at some of the planned venues.
Currently, England are scheduled to play the first Test in Multan on October 7, followed by games in Karachi and Rawalpindi. However, renovations ahead of the Champions Trophy next year are reportedly causing complications at the latter two venues.
There have been suggestions that one or more matches could be relocated to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka, with the England and Wales Cricket Board awaiting further updates.
England coach Brendon McCullum spoke on the matter on Thursday at The Oval, ahead of the third Test against Sri Lanka. He stated, “We don’t really know (what is happening in Pakistan), but we can’t pick a team until we know where we’re going to play.”
He added, “It would be nice if, over the next couple of days, we found out.”
McCullum, a former New Zealand captain, also said, “Then we’ll sit down and make sure we’ve got the right team for the right conditions and the right opposition.”
England did not tour Pakistan between 2005 and 2022 due to security concerns, with the Pakistan Cricket Board hosting matches in the UAE during that period.
The Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer is out, offering a festive family entertainer.
Features a star-studded cast including Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Sanya Malhotra.
Set against a vibrant Indian wedding backdrop with romance, comedy, and music.
Directed by Shashank Khaitan and produced by Dharma Productions and Mentor Disciple Entertainment.
The Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer has finally landed, giving audiences a glimpse of what promises to be one of 2025’s most joyous family films. Bursting with romance, humour, and festive charm, the trailer sets the tone for a big fat Indian wedding story, rooted in togetherness and celebration, a hallmark of Dharma Productions’ signature family entertainers.
‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’ trailer sparks festive wedding chaos with Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor Instagram/dharmamovies
What can viewers expect from the Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer?
The trailer showcases a colourful wedding filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and musical celebrations. Fans get to see an ensemble cast including Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, Rohit Saraf, Akshay Oberoi, and Maniesh Paul, each adding their own flavour to the story. From playful banter to emotional family sequences, the trailer hints at a film designed to appeal to all generations.
Directed by Shashank Khaitan, known for his successful family-centric films, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari reunites him with Dharma Productions. Producers Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Shashank Khaitan have worked together to ensure the film combines humour, music, and emotion seamlessly. Karan Johar described it as “a film that celebrates togetherness, love, and laughter in the most festive way possible.”
Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari hits theatres on 2nd October 2025, just in time for Dussehra. The timing adds to the film’s appeal as a seasonal treat for families looking to enjoy a mix of romance, comedy, and celebration on the big screen. Early reactions to the trailer already suggest it could be a major festive box-office draw.
Why the Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer is special
Beyond the vibrant wedding visuals and ensemble cast, the trailer stands out for its humour and nostalgia. Director Shashank Khaitan has focused on crafting moments that will make viewers smile and perhaps even reminisce about their own family celebrations. With music, laughter, and heartwarming interactions, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari promises to be a cinematic experience that celebrates the joy of coming together.
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Dulquer Salmaan reveals Mammootty and Priyadarshan doubted Lokah Chapter 1
Dulquer Salmaan says both his father Mammootty and Kalyani’s father Priyadarshan were initially worried about the ambitious project.
The Malayalam superhero film has stormed the global box office, crossing £24 million (₹250 crore).
Kalyani Priyadarshan shares the key advice her director father gave her following the monumental success.
The producer-actor admits his production company was braced for a significant financial loss.
The record-shattering success of Lokah Chapter 1 has sent shockwaves through Indian cinema, but for producer Dulquer Salmaan and star Kalyani Priyadarshan, the sweetest victory was winning over their most sceptical critics: their legendary fathers.
In a recent interview, Dulquer disclosed that veterans Mammootty and Priyadarshan had serious doubts about the risky superhero venture, making its phenomenal Lokah Chapter 1 box office haul a deeply personal win. The film’s performance has not only re-written Malayalam cinema’s commercial potential but also cemented its pan-India appeal.
How much has Lokah Chapter 1 made at the box office?
The numbers speak for themselves. Since its release on 28 August, the Dominic Arun-directed epic has performed like a behemoth. The film achieved a staggering £9.6 million (₹100 crore) in its first week alone, a rare feat for a Malayalam film. While a handful of the very biggest Malayalam blockbusters have gone on to collect higher lifetime totals (like the film 2018), crossing the £9.6 million mark within the first week is a clear indicator of an explosive, pan-India opening that only a tiny number of films from the industry have achieved.
The film’s success is particularly significant for opening to packed houses in key international markets like the UAE, the US, and the UK, proving its acceptance beyond its home state.
What was the reaction of Mammootty and Priyadarshan?
Dulquer Salmaan shared that the two industry stalwarts were apprehensive from the start. “Her dad didn’t expect it,” Dulquer said of Priyadarshan. “He was like, ‘What were you thinking? Why would you take this bet?’”
The producer admitted he had no concrete answer, relying purely on instinct. “I told him honestly, I didn’t know. I just believed in the idea. It felt right. My dad was worried too. They all thought we were a little mad,” he confessed. That worry has since transformed into immense pride. Dulquer mentioned that the film’s success has earned his production house "some leeway to make the kind of movies we believe in."
What advice did Priyadarshan give Kalyani after Lokah Chapter 1’s success?
For Kalyani Priyadarshan, her father’s response was a mix of paternal pride and grounded wisdom. She revealed that his first message after the film “blew up” was a classic piece of advice he often repeats: “Don’t let success get to your head and don’t let failure get to your heart.”
She added, “This time he sent it as a reminder, and he keeps reminding me every day. That’s what I hold on to.” Dulquer affectionately added that Priyadarshan is “adorable” and is constantly concerned about his daughter performing her own stunts, always worrying she might get hurt.
How did Lokah Chapter 1 achieve its pan-India appeal?
Lokah Chapter 1’s success is rooted in its high-concept originality and execution. By presenting cinema’s first full-fledged female superhero in a mythology-inspired story, it offered a fresh narrative that captivated audiences tired of formulaic content. The film’s high-quality visual effects, which rival major Hollywood and Bollywood productions, became a major talking point.
Furthermore, its use of Kerala’s rich folklore with a modern twist in an urban setting and a compelling performance by Kalyani Priyadarshan created an end result that transcended language barriers. Its organic buzz on social media, fuelled by positive word-of-mouth, turned it into a must-watch cinematic experience across the country.
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The site, located in Gujarat, houses hundreds of elephants, as well as 50 bears, 160 tigers, 200 lions, 250 leopards, and 900 crocodiles. (Photo: Instagram/Vantara)
AN INDIAN Supreme Court-ordered investigation has cleared a large private animal facility run by the son of Asia’s richest man, rejecting allegations of wildlife violations.
Vantara, described as the “world’s biggest wild animal rescue centre,” is operated by Anant Ambani, son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani.
The site, located in Gujarat, houses hundreds of elephants, as well as 50 bears, 160 tigers, 200 lions, 250 leopards, and 900 crocodiles, according to India’s Central Zoo Authority.
Last month, the Supreme Court asked a panel led by retired judges to examine allegations of unlawful acquisition of animals, including elephants, and possible violations of wildlife laws and money laundering. The court acted after receiving petitions based on media reports and complaints by wildlife groups.
Wildlife activists had raised concerns about the facility, saying it was keeping endangered species next to a large oil refinery without plans to reintroduce them into the wild.
The panel’s report, presented in court on Monday, said the “allegations rest wholly on conjecture and surmises on secondary reporting, and activist commentary.” It added, “The complaints are, therefore, devoid of merit.”
In March, German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung reported that Vantara imported about 39,000 animals in 2024, including from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela. According to the centre, dozens of elephants were also transported from across India in specially adapted trucks.
The probe report said “each of the imports has undergone multi-layered and multi-jurisdictional verification.”
The Supreme Court accepted the findings, saying it had “no hesitation in accepting the conclusion so drawn in the report.” It added, “We are more than satisfied that the facilities at Vantara in certain respects exceeds the prescribed standards.”
Vantara welcomed the outcome. “With utmost humility and gratitude, we welcome the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The SIT's report and the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s order have made it clear that the doubts and allegations raised against Vantara’s animal welfare mission were without any basis. The validation of the truth by the distinguished and widely respected members of the SIT is neot just a relief for everyone at Vantara but also a blessing, because it allows our work to speak for itself."
"We take this occasion to pledge our solidarity with the Government of India, State Governments, and all other stakeholders involved in the huge and challenging task of animal care, and affirm that Vantara will always be ready to work in close collaboration with them. Let’s together make Mother Earth a better place for all living beings,” the facility said in a statement.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12 2025
Taylor Swift reportedly used a £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh) bulletproof portable shield to attend Travis Kelce’s game discreetly.
Heightened security follows the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk last week.
Swift’s low-profile entry marked a departure from her usual public arrivals at Arrowhead Stadium.
Fans speculate the singer opted for extra protection amid growing safety concerns.
Taylor Swift took unprecedented precautions at Sunday’s Kansas City Chiefs game, reportedly shielding herself behind a bulletproof barrier as she watched fiancé Travis Kelce play. The heightened security comes amid concerns following Charlie Kirk’s shocking murder, showing that Swift’s safety remains a top priority. Fans noticed the unusual arrival, sparking discussions online about the superstar’s protective measures.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12 2025 Getty Images
What kind of barrier did Taylor Swift use at the Chiefs game?
According to reports, Swift was behind a bullet-resistant portable shield partition valued at around £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh). The barrier, escorted by multiple security personnel, appeared to move through the stadium tunnels, preventing cameras and fans from spotting her. While there is no official confirmation, Swifties are convinced the singer took the extra step to maintain privacy and safety during the match.
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Why did security concerns escalate for Taylor Swift?
The need for extra protection follows the fatal shooting of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last Wednesday. Although unrelated to Swift, the event heightened conversations about celebrity safety.
Fans drew connections between the murder and Swift’s low-profile entry, since she rarely avoids public attention when attending Travis Kelce’s games. Past incidents, including threats and security challenges, have also prompted Swift to adopt protective measures, such as carrying QuikClot dressings and employing armoured vehicles, as revealed in her 2020 documentary Miss Americana.
Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift and Jason Kelce watch during the first half of the game on August 28, 2025 in Kansas CityGetty Images
How did fans react to Taylor Swift’s discreet arrival?
Online reactions ranged from concern to intrigue. Many fans praised Swift for prioritising safety, while others speculated about the implications of such high-security measures at public events. Social media posts highlighted the contrast between her usual high-profile entrances and the stealthy approach during Sunday’s match. While the Kansas City Chiefs lost 20-17 against the Philadelphia Eagles, attention remained focused on Swift’s security while attending the game.
How has Travis Kelce influenced Taylor Swift’s sports fandom?
Beyond safety, the couple’s shared experiences have brought Swift closer to the NFL. Kelce recently told GQ that he introduced Swift to football, helping her understand injury reports, game situations, and team strategies. “I sort of made her a football fan,” Kelce said. Swift’s engagement with the sport has grown alongside her public appearances, though Sunday marked one of her most discreet visits. Fans hope her presence continues to bring excitement and maybe luck to the Chiefs as the season progresses.
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Pawan Kalyan’s OG breaks overseas records with sold-out shows days before release
Advance bookings for They Call Him OG begin overseas with record sell-outs
Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest screen, sold out in just 2 minutes
Additional shows added in Sydney and Coventry due to massive demand
Film marks Emraan Hashmi’s Telugu debut alongside Pawan Kalyan
The anticipation for Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited action film They Call Him OG, popularly called OG, has reached unprecedented levels. Overseas advance bookings opened this week, and within minutes the buzz translated into packed theatres. At Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest cinema screen with 461 seats, tickets sold out in just two minutes. The feat proves both the global demand for OG and the star power of Pawan Kalyan, whose fanbase stretches far beyond India.
Pawan Kalyan’s OG breaks overseas records with sold-out shows days before release Instagram/ogmovieofficial
Why did Pawan Kalyan’s OG sell out so fast?
The quick sell-out reflects the megastar’s enormous popularity among Telugu audiences abroad. Fans in Australia, the UK, and the US form a significant chunk of the overseas box office for big-budget Telugu films, and OG has already positioned itself as one of the biggest cinematic events of 2025.
Social media was flooded with screenshots of the Melbourne IMAX seating chart turning red within minutes of bookings opening. One fan club on X wrote:
“#TheyCallHimOG sets a record! The premiere at the world’s 2nd largest screen – @IMAX_Melbourne – SOLD OUT in less than 2 mins!”
With tickets snapped up instantly, distributors have already added extra shows in Sydney and Coventry to meet demand.
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What is Pawan Kalyan’s OG about?
Directed by Sujeeth, They Call Him OG is an action gangster drama. The story follows Ojas Gambheera, played by Pawan Kalyan, who resurfaces in Mumbai after a decade-long disappearance to confront rival crime boss Omi Bhau, played by Emraan Hashmi. For Hashmi, the film marks his Telugu debut. Priyanka Arul Mohan, Prakash Raj, and Sriya Reddy also play key roles.
The film’s production house, DVV Entertainment, the same banner behind RRR, recently released a glimpse on Kalyan’s birthday, giving fans their first look at the blood-soaked action. A soundtrack titled Guns N Roses also dropped on 15 September, further fuelling the excitement.
How has Pawan Kalyan’s political career affected OG?
Pawan Kalyan was recently elected to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly and sworn in as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister. His new role has meant limited time for acting, but he assured fans that he would complete OG before taking a break to focus on his political career. This could make the film his last release for some time, adding to the sense of urgency among fans to catch it on the big screen.
Despite political commitments, Kalyan prioritised finishing the shoot so that his fans worldwide could experience OG as intended.
When is OG releasing and what to expect at the box office?
They Call Him OG is set for a global release on 25 September 2025. With advance bookings overseas already breaking records, industry trackers expect the film to post massive opening day numbers internationally. The buzz in Australia and the UK indicates that demand may outstrip supply in some markets, with more shows likely to be added before release day.
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The sold-out Melbourne IMAX premiere, achieved nine days ahead of release, shows the film’s blockbuster status even before it hits theatres. For the Telugu diaspora and fans of Indian cinema worldwide, OG is shaping up as the must-watch spectacle of the year.