Akshay Kumar starrer Bell Bottom was announced last year. The film is set in the 80s and it is inspired by true events.
A few days ago, it was announced that Vaani Kapoor will be seen opposite Akshay in the film, and now, Huma Qureshi and Lara Dutta have joined the cast of the movie. Akshay took to Instagram to share a picture of the film’s team and announce that the movie will go on the floors next month.
The actor posted, “Looking forward to doing what we do best! Time we get back to work! #Bellbottom to go on floors next month. #VashuBhagnani @_vaanikapoor_ @iamhumaq @larabhupathi @ranjitmtewari @jackkybhagnani @deepshikhadeshmukh @onlyemmay @madhubhojwani @nikkhiladvani @emmayentertainment @pooja_ent.”
While Akshay has worked with Lara Dutta and Huma Qureshi earlier, this will be for the first time we will get to see him sharing screen space with Vaani Kapoor. The shooting of the film will take place in the UK.
Bell Bottom is directed by Ranjit M Tewari and written by Aseem Arrora and Parveez Shaikh. It is produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Jackky Bhagnani, Deepshikha Deshmukh, Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani and Nikkhil Advani.
The film is slated to hit the screens on 2nd April 2021.
Well, Bell Bottom will surely be one of the first biggies to commence the shoot after the lockdown. Apart from this movie, Akshay has his kitty full with films like Laxmmi Bomb (releasing on OTT platform), Sooryavanshi (release delayed due to lockdown), Prithviraj, Bachchan Pandey, and Atrangi Re.
TEST captain Shubman Gill has replaced Rohit Sharma as India's ODI skipper, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on Saturday. The change takes effect from the upcoming series in Australia.
Rohit, 38, and Virat Kohli, 36, were both included in the squad for the three-match ODI series starting October 19.
Gill, 26, will now lead India in both Tests and ODIs. He remains vice-captain to Suryakumar Yadav in T20 internationals.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Gill was chosen to lead the one-day side with the 2027 World Cup in mind.
"Firstly, it's practically impossible to have three different captains for three formats," Agarkar said in Ahmedabad, where Gill led India to victory over the West Indies in the first Test.
"Obviously, at some stage, you've got to start looking at where the next World Cup is.
"It's also a format which is played the least now, so you don't get that many games to actually give the next guy that much time to prepare himself or plan."
Agarkar said he had informed Rohit of the decision but did not share further details.
He said he was keen to see how Rohit and Kohli adjust to playing just one format of international cricket. They have both retired from T20Is and Tests.
"Those are two really experienced guys who've been around for a long time, so they would perhaps find it a little bit alien just to play one format which is played the least," Agarkar said.
"Whether not playing a lot of cricket makes a difference, one should ask them and we'll find out when they play, but it doesn't happen too many times."
Gill took over the Test captaincy from Rohit during the England series earlier this year and earned praise for his leadership and batting. He scored 754 runs in five Tests as India drew the series 2-2.
Gill also captains Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League.
Rohit, one of India's most successful white-ball captains, led the team to a record third Champions Trophy title in Dubai earlier this year.
Shreyas Iyer will be vice-captain for the ODI series in Australia, while Suryakumar Yadav will lead the T20 side.
India will play five T20 matches after the ODIs in Australia as part of preparations for the T20 World Cup scheduled for February-March in India and Sri Lanka.
India currently top both the ODI and T20 rankings of the International Cricket Council.
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Police officers stand guard during a mass demonstration organised by Defend our Juries, against the British government's ban on Palestine Action, at Trafalgar Square in London, October 4, 2025. (Photo: Reuters)
PRO-PALESTINIAN protests were held across the UK on Saturday despite a call from prime minister Keir Starmer to cancel them, two days after a deadly car-ramming and knife attack on a synagogue in Manchester.
Four people — two men and two women — remained in custody on suspicion of terrorism-related offences following Thursday’s attack. Police said an 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man who had been held earlier were released without further action.
Two people were killed and three others seriously injured in the attack on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. The attack took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in north Manchester.
Police said they shot dead the assailant, 35-year-old UK citizen of Syrian descent Jihad Al-Shamie, within minutes of the alarm being raised.
The attack has caused concern within Britain’s Jewish community. Police said they were patrolling places of worship across Manchester “with a particular focus on providing a high-visibility presence within our Jewish communities”.
The Manchester synagogue attack was one of the worst antisemitic incidents in Europe since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault in Israel. The Hamas attack killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.
Israel’s military response in Gaza has killed at least 66,288 Palestinians, also mostly civilians, according to health ministry figures in the territory that the United Nations considers reliable.
The conflict has led to frequent pro-Palestinian rallies in Britain, which some critics allege have fuelled antisemitism.
Around 1,000 people gathered in Trafalgar Square in central London on Saturday to show support for the banned group Palestine Action, according to organisers Defend Our Juries.
A spokesperson said the group “stood in solidarity” with the Jewish community over the Manchester attack, adding, “Cancelling peaceful protests lets terror win.”
A smaller protest organised by Greater Manchester Friends of Palestine drew about 100 people in Manchester.
Starmer’s appeal and arrests
Ahead of the demonstrations, Prime Minister Starmer urged protesters not to join the rallies.
“I urge anyone thinking about protesting this weekend to recognise and respect the grief of British Jews. This is a moment of mourning. It is not a time to stoke tension and cause further pain,” he said on X.
Police said 488 people were arrested at the London protest “for supporting a proscribed organisation”. The oldest person arrested was 89.
Four people were detained for other offences. The Met Police said 297 remained in custody while the rest had been bailed.
Supporting the group has been a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act 2000 since the government banned it in early July. Hundreds of people have since been arrested at various demonstrations.
“I’m ready to be arrested,” a 21-year-old student who did not want to be named told AFP. “The ban of Palestine Action is undemocratic. It shouldn’t be a terrorist group, they haven’t killed anybody,” he said.
David Cannon, 73, chair of the Jewish Network for Palestine, said the demonstration was “totally separate” from what had happened in Manchester.
“There’s nothing Jewish about genocide, about apartheid, about ethnic cleansing,” he said.
Police shooting investigation
The UK police watchdog said it would investigate the police shooting of attacker Al-Shamie.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said its probe would also look into the deaths of two other people — one of whom died from a gunshot wound — and another person who was shot but survived.
The IOPC said there was no evidence anyone other than police officers had used firearms at the scene, suggesting both victims were accidentally shot by armed officers while they tackled Al-Shamie.
“Our independent investigation will look at circumstances surrounding the fatal police shooting of Jihad Al-Shamie,” the IOPC said. “A post mortem has today (Friday) concluded another man who died at the scene suffered a fatal gunshot wound.”
(With inputs from agencies)
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Starmer and Modi shake hands during a bilateral meeting in the sidelines of the G20 summit at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Brazil, on November 18, 2024. (Photo: Getty Images)
Keir Starmer to visit India on October 8-9 for first official trip as prime minister.
Starmer and Modi to review India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and roadmap ‘Vision 2035’.
Leaders to discuss trade, technology, defence, climate, and economic cooperation under CETA.
Visit follows Modi’s July 2025 UK trip where India and UK signed free trade agreement.
PRIME MINISTER Keir Starmer will make his first official visit to India on October 8-9 at the invitation of prime minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Saturday.
The MEA said that on October 9 in Mumbai, the two prime ministers will review progress in various areas of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in line with ‘Vision 2035’.
The 10-year roadmap focuses on key areas including trade and investment, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate and energy, health, education, and people-to-people relations.
Both leaders will also meet business and industry representatives to discuss opportunities under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), described by MEA as a central pillar of the future India-UK economic partnership. The ministry said Starmer and Modi “will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance.”
The two prime ministers will attend the sixth edition of the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai and deliver keynote addresses. They will also engage with industry experts, policymakers, and innovators.
The visit will build on the momentum generated by Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UK on July 23-24, 2025, and will provide an opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of India and the United Kingdom to build a forward-looking partnership, according to MEA.
Britain and India signed a free trade agreement in July during Modi’s visit to the UK.
The deal, signed in the presence of Modi and Starmer, aims to reduce tariffs on goods such as textiles, whisky, and cars, and expand market access for businesses.
The agreement was officially signed by India’s minister of commerce and industry, Piyush Goyal, and the UK secretary of state for business and trade, Jonathan Reynolds, India's Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying said in a release.
CETA provides zero-duty access on 99 per cent of tariff lines and opens up several key service sectors.
For the marine sector, the agreement removes import tariffs on a range of seafood products, enhancing the competitiveness of Indian exporters in the UK market.
The agreement is expected to benefit exports of shrimp, frozen fish, and value-added marine products, along with labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, and gems and jewellery.
India’s main seafood exports to the UK include Vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), frozen squid, lobsters, frozen pomfret, and black tiger shrimp. These products are expected to gain further market share under CETA’s duty-free access.
Under the agreement, all fish and fisheries commodities listed under the UK tariff schedule categories marked ‘A’ now enjoy 100 per cent duty-free access from the date the agreement comes into force.
Digital eye strain is becoming more common for people who spend long hours on digital devices. The best way to prevent this condition is to develop good screen habits, improve your environment, and use technology to care for your eyes. Key practices include the 20-20-20 rule, adjusting your screen, ensuring proper lighting, and performing eye exercises regularly. If symptoms continue, consider seeing an eye care professional to keep your eyes healthy.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain arises from prolonged use of devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, and televisions. It’s a widespread issue in today’s tech-driven society, where many people spend hours staring at screens. This condition, often called computer vision syndrome (CVS), is commonly linked to computer use. Symptoms include dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck pain, shoulder discomfort, and general fatigue.
While the discomfort from digital eye strain may feel temporary, ongoing strain can lead to lasting issues if not addressed. The main causes include long screen exposure, poor posture, and inadequate lighting. As more people depend on digital devices for work, entertainment, and communication, it’s important to understand how these habits impact eye health to prevent strain and discomfort.
How Can You Prevent Digital Eye Strain?
Fortunately, there are many effective steps you can take to prevent digital eye strain. With the right habits, adjustments, and technology, you can greatly decrease the chance of discomfort and keep your eyes healthy.
1. Apply the 20-20-20 Rule
One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent digital eye strain is the 20-20-20 rule. This technique is simple to remember and provides relief from too much screen time. Here’s how it works:
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
By following this rule, you give your eyes a break from the constant focus on a close screen. This short pause allows your eye muscles to relax, reducing fatigue. The 20-20-20 rule not only helps protect your eyes but also boosts concentration and productivity by providing regular moments of mental relaxation.
2. Adjust Your Screen Settings
Another way to protect your eyes is by changing the settings on your digital devices. This ensures that text and images on the screen are easy to view without straining your eyes.
Increase Text Size: Make the text on your screen large enough so you don’t have to squint or lean close to read. Many devices and apps allow you to increase text size, so use this feature to ease strain.
Contrast and Brightness: Adjust the contrast and brightness of your screen to match your room’s lighting. If your screen is too bright in a dim room, your eyes have to work harder to focus, leading to fatigue. If the screen is too dim in a bright room, your eyes will struggle to see the content.
Use Blue Light Filters: Blue light from screens significantly contributes to digital eye strain. Blue light can disrupt sleep patterns and cause discomfort. Many devices have blue light filters or a night mode that reduces blue light emissions, making it gentler on your eyes, especially in the evening.
Consider Glasses with Anti-Reflective Coatings: If you wear prescription glasses, you might want to get lenses with an anti-reflective coating. This reduces glare from screens and surrounding light, lessening eye strain. Opticians, like VisionExpress, offer these specialized lenses to make screen use more comfortable and protect your eyes from prolonged exposure.
3. Maintain Proper Lighting
The lighting in your workspace is crucial for reducing digital eye strain. Good lighting decreases glare on your screen and prevents your eyes from overworking to adjust to harsh contrasts.
Avoid Glare: Place your computer screen away from direct light sources like windows, lamps, or overhead lights. Bright light reflecting off the screen can create discomfort, making focusing harder and leading to eye strain.
Use Indirect Lighting: Choose soft, indirect lighting in the room, such as desk lamps with diffused light. This type of lighting helps create a comfortable environment without causing excessive strain on your eyes. Positioning the light source behind you or using task lighting often works well.
Adjust Ambient Lighting: Ensure the ambient lighting matches your screen’s brightness. A well-lit room reduces the contrast between the screen and the surrounding area, easing the strain on your eyes.
4. Blink More Often
A common issue for many people using digital devices is that they blink less while staring at screens. This results in reduced moisture on the eye’s surface, causing dryness and discomfort.
Make a conscious effort to blink more while using digital devices. Blinking refreshes the surface of the eyes, reducing the chance of developing dry eye symptoms. If you still feel dryness, using lubricating eye drops can help restore moisture and reduce discomfort.
5. Take Regular Breaks
It’s important to give your eyes a break from screens. Staring at a screen for hours without breaks can lead to fatigue and strain. Taking regular breaks every 30-60 minutes helps avoid this.
During these breaks, stand up, stretch, and walk around. This not only gives your eyes a rest but also helps relieve muscle tension in your neck, back, and shoulders. The simple act of standing and moving around can improve circulation and help you feel more refreshed.
6. Adjust Your Posture
Maintaining proper posture while using digital devices is another key factor in preventing digital eye strain. Poor posture can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain, which can worsen eye strain discomfort.
Position Your Screen at Eye Level: Keep your screen at eye level so you don’t need to bend your neck to see it clearly. The top of the screen should be at or just below eye level, allowing you to view it without straining your neck.
Maintain a Comfortable Distance: The ideal distance between your eyes and the screen is about 20 to 30 inches. This distance makes it easier for your eyes to focus and lowers the chance of fatigue.
Ergonomic Chair: Make sure your chair offers support and is at the right height for good posture. Keep your feet flat on the floor, your back straight, and your shoulders relaxed.
How Do Screen Habits Affect Eye Health?
Multiple studies show that extended screen use greatly increases the risk of digital eye strain. Research indicates that 50-90% of individuals who spend prolonged periods in front of digital devices experience symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. By incorporating healthy screen habits, such as the 20-20-20 rule, individuals can significantly reduce these symptoms and improve their comfort.
What Devices Contribute Most to Digital Eye Strain?
Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers are the devices most linked to digital eye strain. While these devices are crucial in daily life, it’s important to adjust settings like text size, brightness, and contrast to lessen strain.
The key to preventing digital eye strain is in taking regular breaks, adjusting your screen settings, and maintaining good posture. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce discomfort and protect your eyes from strain.
Implementation
Start by using the 20-20-20 rule and adjusting your screen settings for comfort. Make small changes, like increasing text size or using a blue light filter, and ensure your lighting is soft and indirect. Regularly practicing these strategies will keep your eyes healthy.
Next Steps
Schedule regular eye exams to keep your eyes in top condition. An optician can help assess any strain and suggest corrective solutions like glasses or lenses with anti-reflective coatings.
Set reminders to take breaks and adjust your workspace for maximum comfort. Use apps or simple timers to remind you to look away from your screen every 20 minutes.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy longer, more comfortable screen time without the negative effects of digital eye strain. With a little adjustment to your habits and environment, your eyes will thank you!
This article is paid content. It has been reviewed and edited by the Eastern Eye editorial team to meet our content standards.
Your stylish clothing doesn't have to be saved for special events. Fashion is about expressing who you are on a daily basis without sacrificing style or comfort. Here are seven simple ways to incorporate the newest styles into your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort, style, or budget. It's easier than you might imagine to look fashionable every day, from experimenting with striking prints to layering for the cooler months.
1. How Can You Incorporate Bold Prints into Casual Outfits?
Bold prints can fit into your everyday wardrobe. The key is to balance them with solid, neutral pieces to make them stand out without overwhelming your look. Here are some specific pairings:
Examples:
Stripes and polka dots with denim: A classic striped top or polka-dotted dress combined with a well-fitting pair of jeans creates a fun, well-balanced look. Aim for three to five stripes or a few dots for a stylish yet understated look.
Floral tops with solid-coloured bottoms: When worn with solid skirts or trousers, a blouse with a floral print adds personality. To keep the floral print simple, use one or two striking colours.
Accessories with animal prints: Don't overdo it. To incorporate the trend into your ensemble without going overboard, try one or two accessories, such as a snake-print purse or shoes with a leopard print.
Expert Tip: Always strive for contrast when combining prints. Keep the rest of the ensemble muted if the print is striking. Denim, white, and black are examples of neutral colours that aid in print balance.
2. What Are the Best Ways to Style Athleisure for Everyday Looks?
Athleisure blends comfort and style. Elevate sporty pieces with stylish accessories or structured items to transition easily from gym wear to streetwear.
Examples:
Fitted blazer with sweatpants: Replace your go-to hoodie with a fitted blazer. For a smart-casual style, pair it with tailored sweatpants or slim-fitting joggers. This combo is great for casual dinners or business wear.
Sportswear and statement bags: Wear a structured, roomy handbag with leggings or a sports bra to elevate the look. A bag with little to no hardware adds style without detracting from the laid-back atmosphere.
A midi skirt with sneakers: Sneakers are a mainstay of street style these days. Wear a mid-length pleated skirt with classic white trainers for a laid-back yet fashionable look. Select trainers with low-profile soles to maintain a sleek appearance.
Expert Tip: Layering is crucial. Athleisure pieces can be made more polished and street-chic by adding an oversized coat or tailored jacket.
3. How Do You Style Statement Accessories Without Overdoing It?
Though they should be striking, statement accessories shouldn't overpower your entire ensemble. Here's how to combine simplification with statement accessories.
Examples:
Chunky necklace with a minimalist dress: Add a chunky necklace to a simple, neutral dress. It can improve the ensemble. For balance, wear a simple dress (such as one in a solid colour) with the statement necklace.
Bold earrings with a simple blouse: Adding flair with statement earrings is simple. To draw attention to the earrings and keep the top simple, pair them with big hoops or geometric designs on a simple blouse or T-shirt.
Vibrant handbag with neutral tones: A bright handbag, such as one that is red or cobalt blue, can add some colour to an otherwise neutral ensemble. To balance the tones of your ensemble, pick a single, striking colour for your bag.
Sunglasses for instant glam: A high-end pair of Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses can instantly elevate your look, bringing a touch of luxury and refinement to even the most casual outfits. For an alternative luxury look, Chanel sunglasses offer classic elegance with modern appeal, perfect for those who want to add a touch of French luxury to their everyday wardrobe. Gucci sunglasses, known for their bold designs and impeccable craftsmanship, are another great option to elevate your outfit with distinctive, eye-catching flair. No matter the brand, sunglasses from these luxury designers are sure to make a statement, transforming your look with ease and ensuring you stand out with refined sophistication.
Expert Tip: Balance your accessories; if you go for striking earrings, avoid other eye-catching pieces like bracelets or rings. This guarantees a unified appearance.
4. How to Wear the Latest Colours in Subtle Ways?
Experimenting with trendy colours doesn't mean you need to wear them from head to toe. Incorporate bold hues through accessories, shoes, or layering pieces.
Examples:
Black jeans with pastel jackets: Classic black jeans look more modern when paired with a pastel jacket (such as mint green, lavender, or pale pink). These two pieces work well together to highlight the pastel without being overpowering.
Bright shoes with neutral outfits: Pair bold boots or bright trainers with basic ensembles like white tops or black trousers. Colour is added without sacrificing style.
Colour-blocked purses or scarves: A colour-blocked purse or scarf can add a few current hues without taking over your entire ensemble. Pick bags in two to three colours for a sleek yet understated look.
Expert Tip: Use colour sparingly at first. Start with accessories that add a splash of colour, and as you gain confidence, you can add more colour to your wardrobe.
5. What’s the Right Way to Layer for Fall/Winter Fashion?
In order to stay warm and fashionable during the winter, layering is crucial. For a stylish appearance, combine different textiles and textures while maintaining coherence.
Examples:
Turtleneck under a slip dress: A stylish way to wear your summer dress all year round is with a fitted turtleneck underneath a slip dress. This combination provides additional warmth without sacrificing style, making it ideal for autumn or winter.
Blazers over sweaters: For comfort and structure, wear a fitted blazer over a chunky knit sweater. This combination gives you a sophisticated, professional appearance that is ideal for meetings or the workplace.
Long coats worn with T-shirts or casual jeans: Casual jeans and a T-shirt look instantly better with a long, structured coat. Choose double-breasted or oversized styles to add warmth and flair.
Expert Tip: To add dimension to your ensemble while keeping everything weatherproof, try combining three different textures when layering, such as wool, leather, and cotton.
6. How Can You Mix High-End Pieces with Budget-Friendly Items?
Finding a balance between high-end and low-cost pieces is crucial. Here's a budget-friendly way to add designer pieces to your regular wardrobe.
Examples:
Designer shoes with high-street jeans: Wear your favourite high-street jeans with designer heels or boots. It gives an unexpected touch of luxury, elevating the ensemble without breaking the bank.
Casual sweaters with luxury bags: A basic outfit of jeans and a sweater can be made stylish with a designer bag, such as a classic Chanel or Gucci purse. Invest in classic bags to pair with reasonably priced basics.
Expensive jackets with simple tees: A well-tailored leather or trench coat can elevate a simple tee and jeans ensemble. This easy trick instantly improves your appearance.
Expert Tip: Avoid using too many colours when combining expensive and inexpensive items. Neutral colours, such as beige, white, or black, are adaptable and combine expensive and inexpensive items to create a unified style.
7. How to Style Vintage Trends for a Modern Look?
Although vintage items are timeless, improper styling can make them seem dated. For a new look, combine vintage and contemporary pieces to bring them into the present.
Examples:
Retro floral blouse with tailored trousers: This combination of high-waisted trousers and a vintage floral blouse combines classic charm with contemporary refinement. Wear it with sleek pumps for a chic yet distinctive style.
Vintage boots with skinny jeans: Vintage boots can give an edge to skinny jeans, while a modern graphic tee or oversized sweater balances the look.
Modern sneakers with vintage denim jackets: Sneakers from today go nicely with a vintage denim jacket. This combination is excellent for daily wear because it is comfortable and adaptable.
Expert Tip: Avoid looking too retro by limiting the number of vintage items in each ensemble to one and balancing them with modern pieces.
Summary and Takeaways:
It doesn't have to be difficult or costly to incorporate trendy pieces into your regular wardrobe. You can easily modernise your outfits by starting with one new piece at a time, whether it's a striking accessory, print, or colour. Within a week or two, you will feel more comfortable combining your wardrobe staples with new trends.
The next step is to start with a basic colour or accessory and try different ways to match it with your existing wardrobe. One step at a time, add more trends to your wardrobe as you feel comfortable doing so.
This article is paid content. It has been reviewed and edited by the Eastern Eye editorial team to meet our content standards.