THE FORMER BOLLYWOOD SCREEN QUEEN ON HER RETURN, NEW PROJECTS AND SURVIVING AS AN OUTSIDER IN FILMS
by ASJAD NAZIR
BEAUTY QUEEN turned actress Pooja Batra had a successful career in Indian cinema and delivered winning performances in multiple languages, but then left it all behind after she got married to someone based in USA.
Later, the popular star recommenced her acting career and reconnected with the camera in India after she got separated. Now, instead of surrendering herself to commercial cinema, Pooja has entered an exciting new phase of her career where she is exploring new acting frontiers.
Happily married again and doing things on her own terms, she recently starred in short film Padmavyuha and America feature Draupadi Unleashed.
With more projects on the way, including Bollywood entertainer Squad, Pooja Batra is enjoying life and was happy to speak to Eastern Eye about her interesting acting journey and future hopes. She also spoke about surviving as an outsider in Bollywood and key changes the Indian film industry needs to make.
How do you look back on your journey as an actor?
I would say I was blessed to be a part of such amazing movies and had the privilege of working with amazing co-stars, superb directors and great technicians.
Which of your characters would you say is closest to your heart?
My role in Virasat, Chandralekha and One Under The Sun, where I got to play an astronaut, are closest to my heart.
Which role challenged you the most?
The role that challenged me the most was Noorjehan in Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story. Mohini in Draupadi Unleashed, which has been playing in theatres in the US, has also been an interesting challenge.
You have worked with some incredible people, but who has been the most memorable co-actor?
Amrish Puri in Virasat, definitely! Also, Lalita Pawar and Om Puri in Bhai – she played my grandmother and he portrayed my father in the film. Also, Mohanlal in Chandralekha!
Do you regret stepping away from Bollywood and moving to America?
Yes and no! Yes, because I would have been a part of many more projects had I been in India and no, because now I have the confidence, after having trained and worked in Hollywood. I know now that I have what it takes.
What did you most miss about movies when you didn’t do them?
I missed the vastness of the projects. Movies are movies! The pampering of actors, just being on set, having to dress up and playing in a make-believe world are some of the things I missed.
Tell us about your short film Padmavyuha and the character you play?
Padmavyuha is an exploration of faith and morality. It is also a story of a second-generation Indian looking for his roots, which is a very common phenomenon for people, who at some point or the other go looking for their roots. I play professor Anjali Mudra who is immersed in researching the origins of Hinduism and then she goes incognito; nobody knows if she is murdered, kidnapped, held hostage or in captivity.
What made you want to be part of a short film?
This is the first short film I’ve done in my entire acting career. My US manager had called me to let me know that there was an offer from Raj Krishna for me and that he had me in mind for the role of professor Anjali Mudra, when he penned the story. Plus, I wanted to be a part of a project that I could remember in the years, to have done it, when the whole world was under lockdown 2020.
What was the biggest challenge of playing this role?
The challenge was that I could be a part of it by sitting in India while Raj and his team were in California (US). It was a work-from-home job.
Who are you hoping connects with the film Padmavyuha?
All the second generation Indians born outside India and everyone who is looking to find their roots.
What has the response to the film been like at festivals?
It has done tremendously in international festivals. It has now gone to over eight festivals in the US and Canada.
Has your approach as an actor changed with time?
My approach has changed with each passing year and each project, and each audition I have done.
There has been a lot of talk about Bollywood being tough on outsiders and nepotistic. How did you survive it and do so well?
I survived it because the survival of the fittest is the number one law of nature. You just have to keep the faith, and most importantly, keep honing your craft because acting is a huge canvas with a constant scope for improvement.
What does the India film industry need to change about itself?
The industry actually needs to get a powerful guild for the actors that actually fights for actors’ rights, integrity, payments and makes sure that residuals are levied in India. It’s high time actors are also a part of revenues after the movie is released and re-aired. Also equalise payments for both genders. Reduce the discrepancy of payments and treatments from one actor to another. Have medical benefits for actors, especially those without work. Have homes and welfare for veteran actors that were not A-listers, so that they are not dying without basic needs in their old age.
What is the Pooja acting master plan going forward?
Pooja never makes a master plan. Pooja always goes with the flow.
What would be your dream role?
My dream role will be to do Star Wars, Matrix, Wonder Woman, Game Of Thrones, play an Indian sports star, a CEO or an army officer. I like playing empowering roles.
Who would you love to work with in the future?
I would love to work with Kathryn Bigelow, Patty Jenkins, Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese and JJ Abrams.
What can we expect next from you in terms of films?
I’m playing a witch in Hexengeddon and a special agent in Squad.
Today, what inspires you?
Dignity, integrity, education and what you give back rather than hoarding.
Why do you love being an actor?
I love living different lives vicariously through the craft. No two days are the same in my profession, other than the existential daily routines.
Why should we watch Padmavyuha?
It is beautifully written and visualised by Raj Krishna. It is very well acted by Nick Prakash. It is an official selection in multiple international film festivals. It’s Da Vinci Code meets with Hinduism. It’s terrifically directed by Raj. This is his first movie, and he along with his team were on point, me included.
Uterine cancer cases and deaths are projected to rise significantly in the US by 2050.
Black women are expected to experience the highest increase in incidence-based mortality.
A new model predicts incidence rising to 86.9 cases per 100,000 for Black women and 74.2 for White women.
Researchers stress the urgent need for improved prevention and early detection strategies.
Sharp increase in uterine cancer predicted over next three decades
Uterine cancer, currently the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, is projected to see a substantial rise in both cases and deaths by 2050, particularly among Black women. A new study led by researchers at Columbia University warns of worsening racial disparities in outcomes if preventative measures are not introduced.
This year alone, around 69,120 new cases of uterine cancer and nearly 14,000 deaths are expected in the United States. However, projections by the Columbia University research team, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, indicate a significant increase in both incidence and mortality over the next 30 years.
Black women to face disproportionate increase in mortality
The study found that Black women already experience double the mortality rate from uterine cancer compared to women from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. Using a predictive model, researchers estimated that this gap will widen dramatically by 2050.
The incidence-based mortality rate among Black women is expected to rise from 14.1 per 100,000 in 2018 to 27.9 per 100,000 by 2050. In contrast, for White women, the rate will increase from 6.1 per 100,000 to 11.2 per 100,000 in the same period.
The incidence rate is also projected to rise to 86.9 cases per 100,000 in Black women and 74.2 cases per 100,000 in White women by 2050, compared to 56.8 and 57.7, respectively, in 2018.
About the study model
The projections were developed using the Columbia University Uterine Cancer Model (CU-UTMO), a state-transition microsimulation tool designed as part of the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network (CISNET).
The model simulates the disease trajectory based on age (18–84), race (Black and White), tumour type (endometrioid or nonendometrioid), stage at diagnosis, and birth cohort from 1910 onwards. It was validated using 2018 data and showed a strong fit to actual incidence and mortality statistics.
Lead author Dr Jason D. Wright, the Sol Goldman Professor of Gynaecologic Oncology at Columbia University, explained:
“There are likely a number of factors that are associated with the increased burden of uterine cancer in Black women. They more commonly have aggressive types of uterine cancer, face delayed diagnosis resulting in later-stage disease at diagnosis, and there are often delays in their treatment.”
More aggressive tumour types in Black women
The model also highlighted that while endometrioid tumours, a less aggressive form, are projected to increase in both Black and White women, the rate of nonendometrioid tumours, which have a poorer prognosis, will rise considerably in Black women alone.
These trends point to an urgent need for improved public health interventions aimed at early diagnosis and treatment, as well as research into tailored approaches for high-risk groups.
Potential for prevention and screening
In a stress test of the model, researchers incorporated hypothetical screening methods capable of detecting uterine cancer and precancerous changes before clinical diagnosis. The analysis found that such interventions could lead to significant reductions in cancer incidence, lasting up to 15 years in White women and 16 years in Black women, if introduced at the age of 55.
Dr Wright commented on the implications of the test:
“The stress testing suggests that if there was an effective screening test, we may be able to substantially reduce the burden of disease. While there is presently no screening or prevention that is routinely used for uterine cancer, we are currently examining the potential impact of integrating screening into practice.”
Call for action
With cases and deaths from uterine cancer projected to climb, the researchers conclude that immediate steps must be taken to develop and implement primary and secondary prevention strategies. Without intervention, the burden of uterine cancer, particularly among Black women, is expected to grow significantly, posing serious public health challenges in the decades ahead.
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Tesco has issued an urgent product recall for two batches of Wall’s Scotch Eggs
Tesco and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) have issued an urgent recall for Wall’s Scotch Eggs.
Salmonella contamination has been confirmed in two batches with a use-by date of July 2, 2025.
Customers are advised not to eat the affected items and return them to any Tesco store for a full refund.
No other Wall’s products are affected by this recall.
Wall’s Scotch Eggs recalled due to salmonella risk
Tesco has issued an urgent product recall for two batches of Wall’s Scotch Eggs after salmonella contamination was confirmed. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) supported the decision and has advised customers to check their kitchens and dispose of or return the products immediately.
The recall applies specifically to Wall’s 2 Classic Scotch Eggs 226g and Wall’s The Classic Scotch Egg 113g, both with a use-by date of 2 July 2025. Customers who purchased either product are urged not to consume them due to the potential health risk.
Symptoms and safety guidance
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning, with symptoms including fever, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. The FSA and NHS advise that anyone experiencing these symptoms after eating a recalled item should seek medical advice if necessary.
Customers are advised to avoid eating the affected products and return them to any Tesco store for a full refund, with no receipt required. Point-of-sale notices have been displayed in all stores that stocked the affected items to alert customers to the issue.
Tesco and manufacturer issue statements
Tesco confirmed the recall on its website and through in-store notices. The supermarket stated:
"Wall’s is recalling various Classic Scotch Eggs with the use-by date of 2 July 2025. This is due to the presence of salmonella."
The manufacturer, The Compleat Food Group, described the recall as a voluntary precaution, citing a "potential risk of salmonella." However, Tesco confirmed that the affected products sold in its stores were contaminated.
A spokesperson for The Compleat Food Group said:
"This is an isolated incident and no other Wall’s products are affected."
What to do if you’ve bought the product
Customers who have purchased the affected Wall’s Scotch Eggs are asked to:
Not consume the product.
Return it to any Tesco store for a full refund.
No proof of purchase is needed.
Additional information and support are available through the Wall’s website atwalls-pastry.co.uk or by contacting Tesco Customer Services on 0800 505 555. Customers can also email customercare@compleatfood.com for assistance.
To find the nearest Tesco branch, shoppers can use the store locator tool available on the Tesco website.
FSA guidance on food recalls
The FSA explained why recalls such as this one are issued:
"If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be 'withdrawn' or 'recalled'."
In this case, the FSA has issued a Product Recall Information Notice to alert both consumers and local authorities. It added that in some instances, a 'Food Alert for Action' is also issued to ensure the appropriate steps are taken.
This latest recall follows a recent series of food safety alerts, as salmonella was also detected in other snacks sold across England, Scotland, and Wales in the past week.
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The authors acknowledged potential limitations in their findings
40% of participants in a new study said food affects their sleep
Dairy and sweets were linked to worse sleep and more disturbing dreams
Fruit, herbal tea and vegetables were associated with better sleep quality
Authors suggest that lactose intolerance may play a role in dream disturbance
A recent study has explored how food may influence sleep and dreaming, with some participants reporting that certain items — particularly dairy and sweets — disrupted their rest and contributed to nightmares.
Study looked at food, sleep and dreams
The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology on Monday, analysed responses from 1,082 college-aged participants who completed online surveys between January and April 2023. The survey asked about over a dozen food categories, including dairy, meat, fruit, desserts, and spicy foods.
According to the findings, 40.2% of respondents said their eating habits had an impact on their sleep. About 25% stated that at least one food group made their sleep worse, while 20% said that some foods improved it.
Among the foods most commonly associated with disrupted sleep were dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese), desserts and sweets, and spicy dishes. On the other hand, fruit, vegetables, and herbal tea were most often credited with improving sleep quality.
Dairy and sweets linked to disturbing dreams
When asked about the effect of food on dreaming, 5.5% of participants said they noticed a link. Of those, 31% said desserts and sweets triggered nightmares, while 22% blamed dairy.
The study’s authors noted that while the data is based on self-reported experiences and may lack scientific proof, previous research does support the possibility that food can influence sleep patterns.
They added that the connection between dairy and negative dream experiences could be due to gastrointestinal symptoms in people with lactose intolerance, such as bloating or cramps, which may disrupt sleep and affect dream quality.
Limitations of the study
The authors acknowledged potential limitations in their findings. All participants were university students enrolled in psychology courses, meaning they may have had prior knowledge of related topics that could have influenced their responses.
Despite this, the research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that what we eat may affect not only how well we sleep, but how we dream.
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The couple met on the members-only dating app Raya during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followers.
She is known for popularising tennis among younger audiences.
Riddle and Fritz met on the dating app Raya in 2020.
She regularly travels with Fritz on tour and featured in Netflix’s Break Point.
Riddle has collaborated with Wimbledon and launched tennis-themed products.
Morgan Riddle, often referred to as Taylor Fritz’s girlfriend, has become a recognised figure in the tennis world, thanks to her growing media presence and efforts to modernise the sport’s image. As Fritz continues to climb the ATP rankings, currently sitting at World No. 5, Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships in London.
A social media influencer with a tennis mission
Riddle has built a career as a full-time influencer and media personality, gaining popularity on Instagram and TikTok for her lifestyle, fashion and behind-the-scenes tennis content. Her viral videos, including one that aimed to “make tennis cool again,” have drawn both praise and criticism.
In the now-famous clip, Riddle explained how tennis works, described the annual tournament schedule, and spoke about her life travelling with Fritz. While some fans were critical, Fritz publicly supported her efforts, saying: “I 100 percent agree with everything in that video. I think what she did was awesome for our sport.”
A strong relationship in the spotlight
The couple met on the members-only dating app Raya during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. At the time, Riddle had just relocated to Los Angeles. Their first date involved takeout sushi and a horror film at home — a setting dictated by the lockdown restrictions of the time.
Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 WimbledonGetty Images
Despite busy schedules and constant travel, the couple have been together since 2020 and celebrated their three-year anniversary in June 2023. Riddle has said that maintaining their relationship takes teamwork and understanding, especially as they spend over 30 weeks a year on the road.
“We travel so well together,” she told PEOPLE magazine. “Both of us are very focused on what we’re doing… we’re very much immersed in each other, but also have our own things going on.”
From Minnesota to the global tennis stage
Riddle was raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in a hockey-loving household. Tennis was never part of her upbringing — in fact, she has joked about being “not athletic at all” and more involved in theatre and debate.
After studying English Language and Literature at Wagner College in New York, she entered the real estate sector before shifting to media and influencer marketing. She has since worked with outlets like the Food Network and Hollywire before committing full-time to content creation.
She has also worked as a model and in 2023 launched a tennis-themed jewellery line in collaboration with Lottie NYC.
Working with Wimbledon and growing tennis’ appeal
Riddle’s growing status within the sport led to a collaboration with Wimbledon in 2023, where she hosted a video series called Wimbledon Threads, interviewing fans about their fashion choices. She called the project a “huge” opportunity for being taken more seriously in the tennis world.
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiencesGetty Images
“To be recognised by a tournament of that prestige is just a big win for me,” she said. “That’s something that I’ve struggled with — especially with the older, more traditional tennis fan base.”
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiences, often sharing her travels to tournaments like the Laver Cup and the Nitto ATP Finals with her followers.
On screen and in the press
Riddle and Fritz both appeared in Netflix’s Break Point, the docuseries exploring professional tennis behind the scenes. Filmed by the creators of Formula 1: Drive to Survive, the show featured their journey and offered fans a glimpse into life on tour.
In August 2023, The New York Times profiled Riddle in an article titled The Most Famous Woman in Men’s Tennis, highlighting her unique position in the sport. She spoke about the pressures of public scrutiny, saying: “If his ranking had gone down, they’d say it’s my fault. The only time I really get nervous is when I see him getting nervous.”
Taylor Fritz's girlfriend continues to grow her profile
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followersGetty Images
As Taylor Fritz continues to perform at the highest level in men’s tennis, Morgan Riddle has carved out her own space within the sport. With a growing audience, strategic brand partnerships, and a shared goal of modernising tennis, she remains an influential figure in her own right, both on and off the court.
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The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts
Amber heat-health alerts issued as temperatures approach 35°C in parts of the UK.
Early signs of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, and dizziness.
Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke if not treated within 30 minutes.
At-risk groups include the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions.
NHS and health experts urge people to stay hydrated, cool, and avoid midday sun.
Medical experts are urging the public to remain alert for the early signs of heat stroke, as temperatures across parts of England are expected to reach up to 35°C. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts, warning that extreme heat can have serious health impacts. Doctors stress that symptoms can begin subtly, making early intervention crucial.
Heat alerts across multiple regions
Amber-level warnings are in effect for the West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, South East, South West, London, and the East of England.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “The temperatures we are likely to see over the next few days can result in serious health outcomes across the population.” He urged the public to take “sensible precautions while enjoying the sun”, and to look out for vulnerable individuals.
Recognising the early signs of heat stroke
Dr Javier Mateos Delgado, an emergency unit coordinator and expert in Family and Community Medicine, warned that heat stroke can begin with subtle neurological symptoms. These are often mistaken for tiredness or minor illness, delaying proper treatment.
According to Dr Delgado, early signs may include:
Slurred or incoherent speech
Irritability or mood changes
Disorientation or confusion
Loss of balance or blurred vision
He also noted that muscle cramps, especially at night or after exertion, despite drinking water, are a key warning sign. “The first symptoms are usually a feeling of intense heat, dizziness, and weakness,” he said. “You have to learn to listen to your body.”
When heat exhaustion becomes heat stroke
According to NHS guidance, heat exhaustion can be treated at home if the person is cooled down within 30 minutes. Signs include:
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Sweating heavily
Weakness and tiredness
Muscle cramps
Fast breathing
Feeling very thirsty
However, if symptoms don’t improve within half an hour or worsen, it could indicate heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.
Call 999 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, which include:
Hot, dry skin that isn’t sweating
A high body temperature and flushed appearance
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion or unusual behaviour
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
While waiting for emergency services, move the person to a shaded or cool area, give them fluids if possible, and use water or cold items to help reduce their body temperature, especially on the neck and underarms.
Heat stroke prevention: What to do
Dr Mateos Delgado emphasised that prevention is often overlooked. “The problem is not usually that we don't know what to do,” he said, “but that we don't do it.”
To prevent heat stroke, experts recommend:
Avoiding strenuous activity during peak sunlight hours (11 am to 3 pm)
Staying indoors or in shaded areas during the hottest part of the day
Drinking water regularly—even if not thirsty
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
Using fans or keeping rooms cool by closing blinds and windows
Wearing sunglasses and sun hats, and applying sunscreen
Checking on friends, relatives, and neighbours, especially those at higher risk
Who is most at risk of heat stroke?
While anyone can be affected, certain groups are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. These include:
People over 65 or under 5 years old
Those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, or dementia
People on medications that affect sweating or body temperature
Those experiencing mental health challenges or substance misuse
People living alone, outdoors, or in poor housing conditions
Outdoor workers, including construction or farm labourers
Health officials urge everyone to take extra care over the coming days, as the UK experiences potentially record-breaking temperatures.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and acting quickly could help save lives during the ongoing heatwave.