India's Saina Nehwal suffered a shocking first round loss to world number 212 Wang Zhiyi of China to exit the New Zealand Open on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old Olympic bronze medallist and world number nine lost 16-21 23-21 4-21 to her 19-year-old opponent in the women's singles match that lasted one hour and seven minutes.
In men's singles, Lakshya Sen's campaign also ended with a hard-fought loss against Taiwan's Wang Tzu Wei. Lakshya lost 21-15 18-21 10-21 in an hour and eight minutes.
Earlier in the day, the pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy fought hard against Chinese duo of Liu Xuanxuan and Xia Yuting before losing 14-21 23-21 14-21 in an hour and 10 minutes.
But the men's doubles pair of Manu Attri and B Sumeeth Reddy registered a win over New Zealand's Joshua Feng and Jack Jiang 21-17 21-10.
Saina, a World Championship silver medallist, trailed 0-4 in the first game and was unable to keep up with her opponent losing 16-21.
Wang stretched Saina in the second game which the Indian won 23-21. There was no fightback from the Indian in the decider as Wang won eight consecutive points to win it easily.
Anura Prabhudesai also lost to world number 15 Li Xuerui 9-21 10-21 in singles first round on a disappointing day for Indian shuttlers.
It’s been 26 years since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam hit the big screen, but Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s rich, emotional tale of love and longing still lingers in the hearts of movie lovers. Starring Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Ajay Devgn, this film was a cultural moment. Here are five things you may not know about this now-iconic musical drama.
1. KK’s Bollywood debut began with heartbreak
Before he became one of the most beloved voices of the 2000s, singer KK got his big Bollywood break with the heart-wrenching song Tadap Tadap. The track, composed by Ismail Darbar and written by Mehboob, captured the raw ache of lost love, and KK’s soul-stirring vocals made it unforgettable. Few know that Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was his first major entry into Hindi cinema, thanks to Bhansali's knack for spotting rare talent.
Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan in a still from Bhansali’s unforgettable love storyInstagram/bhansaliproductions
2. Tadap Tadap still strikes a nerve with heartbroken souls
Even decades later, Tadap Tadap remains a go-to song for anyone nursing heartbreak. Its haunting melody and painful lyrics have earned it a permanent place on every “breakup playlist.” It’s not just a song, it’s a punch to the gut, and Gen X especially holds it close, often revisiting it during nostalgic or emotional moments.
Aishwarya Rai’s performance brought grace and heartbreak in equal measureInstagram/bhansaliproductions
3. It was only Bhansali’s second film
Most directors take a while to find their signature style. Not Sanjay Leela Bhansali. After Khamoshi: The Musical, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was only his second directorial project, but it cemented his place as a filmmaker known for blending grand visuals with emotional depth. The film’s cultural textures, sweeping sets, and deep emotions became a Bhansali trademark.
Salman Khan’s raw vulnerability added soul to Bhansali’s tale of longing and lossInstagram/bhansaliproductions
4. It echoed the storytelling of Indian film legends
Many critics at the time drew parallels between Bhansali and classic directors like Guru Dutt, Raj Kapoor, and K. Asif. Like them, Bhansali crafted scenes with intense emotional weight, often using music, silence, and visual flair to convey what words couldn’t.
Ajay Devgn delivered quiet intensity in Bhansali’s emotionally charged love triangleInstagram/bhansaliproductions
5. The music album was a blockbuster on its own
Beyond Tadap Tadap, the film’s soundtrack was packed with gems. From the playful Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyaan to the devotional Albela Sajan, the album was a complete package. Ismail Darbar’s score, paired with poetic lyrics and powerful vocals, played a major role in the film’s emotional impact.
Bhansali’s next film is already making waves
Two and a half decades later, Bhansali remains a force in Indian cinema. His upcoming film Love and War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, is already one of the most anticipated releases. And while Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam remains a fan favourite, expectations are sky-high for his next chapter.
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The gambling industry has always been quick to embrace new technology, from the first slot machines to today's live dealer streams. Now, voice-activated casino logins are making waves across the sector. Platforms like Fortunica are exploring how voice recognition might revolutionise player authentication, but the question remains: is this innovation genuinely transformative or simply the latest tech trend?
Voice technology has become increasingly sophisticated, with smart speakers and voice assistants now commonplace in millions of homes. The gambling industry's interest in this technology stems from its potential to streamline user experience while enhancing security measures.
How Voice-Activated Casino Logins Work
Voice-activated authentication systems rely on sophisticated biometric technology that analyses unique vocal characteristics. These systems don't simply recognise words or phrases; they examine the physical properties of your voice, including pitch, tone, rhythm, and breathing patterns.
When you first register with a voice-enabled casino platform, the system creates a unique voiceprint by recording several samples of your speech. This voiceprint becomes your digital signature, stored securely in encrypted databases. During subsequent logins, the system compares your live voice sample against this stored template, granting access only when the match meets predetermined security thresholds.
The technology operates through advanced machine learning algorithms that can distinguish between identical twins and even detect attempts at voice mimicry. Modern systems also incorporate anti-spoofing measures to prevent recordings or synthetic voice generation from compromising security.
The Advantages of Voice Authentication
Voice-activated logins offer several compelling benefits that could genuinely transform the online gambling experience. These advantages extend beyond mere convenience, potentially addressing some of the industry's most persistent challenges.
The primary benefit lies in enhanced security measures. Voice biometrics are incredibly difficult to replicate, making unauthorised access significantly more challenging than traditional password-based systems. Unlike passwords, which can be stolen, shared, or forgotten, your voice remains uniquely yours.
Convenience represents another major advantage. Players no longer need to remember complex passwords or fumble with authentication apps during exciting gaming moments. A simple voice command can grant immediate access, particularly valuable during high-stakes situations where every second counts. Key benefits include:
Enhanced security: Biometric authentication provides superior protection against unauthorised access.
Improved accessibility: Voice commands assist players with visual impairments or mobility challenges.
Faster login times: Eliminates typing delays and password recovery processes.
Reduced fraud: Unique vocal characteristics are nearly impossible to replicate convincingly.
Better user experience: Seamless authentication maintains gaming momentum.
Potential Drawbacks and Concerns
Despite the promising advantages, voice-activated casino logins face several significant challenges that could limit their widespread adoption. Understanding these limitations is crucial for evaluating the technology's true potential.
Environmental factors pose considerable obstacles to reliable voice authentication. Background noise, poor audio quality, or temporary voice changes due to illness can prevent successful logins. Casinos operate in diverse environments, and players might attempt access from noisy locations where voice recognition proves unreliable.
Privacy concerns also weigh heavily on many users' minds. Voice data represents highly personal biometric information, and data breaches could have serious consequences. Players worry about how gambling operators store, protect, and potentially share their vocal signatures.
Technical limitations present additional challenges. Voice recognition systems require substantial computational resources and sophisticated infrastructure. Smaller casino operators might struggle with implementation costs, whilst players need compatible devices and stable internet connections.
Current Industry Implementation
The gambling industry's adoption of voice authentication remains relatively limited, with most operators still evaluating the technology's practical applications. Several major software providers have begun developing voice-enabled solutions, though widespread deployment hasn't yet materialised.
Current implementations focus primarily on premium VIP services and high-roller platforms, where enhanced security justifies additional costs. These pilot programmes help operators understand user preferences and identify potential technical issues before broader rollouts.
The following table illustrates different implementation approaches across the industry:
Implementation Type
Target Audience
Primary Benefits
Current Status
VIP Services
High-value players
Enhanced security, premium experience
Limited deployment
Mobile Apps
Tech-savvy users
Convenience, quick access
Development phase
Live Dealer Games
Interactive players
Seamless authentication
Testing stage
Customer Support
All players
Identity verification
Early adoption
The Future of Voice Technology in Gambling
Looking ahead, voice-activated authentication appears poised for gradual expansion rather than immediate industry-wide adoption. Several factors will influence the technology's trajectory over the coming years.
Technological improvements continue to advance voice recognition accuracy and reliability. Machine learning algorithms become more sophisticated while hardware costs decrease, making implementation more feasible for smaller operators. Integration with existing security systems also improves, offering comprehensive protection without completely overhauling the current infrastructure.
Regulatory developments will significantly impact adoption rates. Gambling authorities must establish clear guidelines regarding biometric data collection, storage, and usage. Player protection requirements may either accelerate adoption through mandated security improvements or slow progress through stringent compliance demands.
Consumer acceptance remains the ultimate determining factor. Younger demographics generally embrace new technology more readily, whilst older players might prefer familiar authentication methods. Education about security benefits and privacy protections will influence broader acceptance rates.
Revolutionary Potential With Realistic Expectations
Voice-activated casino logins represent genuine innovation with significant potential benefits for both operators and players. Enhanced security, improved accessibility, and streamlined user experiences offer compelling advantages that could reshape online gambling authentication. However, technical challenges, privacy concerns, and implementation costs suggest gradual rather than immediate transformation.
The technology's success will depend on addressing current limitations whilst demonstrating clear value to both operators and players. As voice recognition continues improving and costs decrease, expect broader adoption across the gambling industry. Whether voice authentication becomes standard practice or remains a niche feature will ultimately depend on user acceptance and regulatory support.
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Rabies causes a serious infection of the brain and nervous system in humans
A woman from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, has died after contracting rabies following contact with a stray dog while on holiday in Morocco, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed.
The agency stated that the woman became infected during her trip to the North African country. There is no documented evidence of rabies spreading between humans, so the wider public is not considered at risk.
Precautionary measures for close contacts
A UKHSA spokesperson said close contacts of the woman, including healthcare professionals involved in her care, are being assessed. Vaccinations are being offered where necessary as a precautionary measure.
Rabies: rare but deadly
Rabies causes a serious infection of the brain and nervous system in humans. It is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but the UKHSA emphasised that prompt post-exposure treatment is “very effective” in preventing the disease.
The virus is usually transmitted through bites, scratches, or saliva from an infected animal. Dr Katherine Russell from the UKHSA advised: “Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK. If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical advice without delay.”
Six UK-linked cases since 2000
According to the UKHSA, there have been six cases of human rabies in the UK linked to animal exposure abroad between 2000 and 2024. Rabies is most common in parts of Asia and Africa.
Travellers are advised to avoid contact with animals in affected countries and to consider vaccination before travel, especially when visiting areas where rabies is prevalent.
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Several hidden threats linked to heat waves often go unnoticed
As temperatures across the UK continue to rise, so too do the health risks associated with extreme heat. While sunburn and dehydration are well-known dangers, several hidden threats linked to heat waves often go unnoticed. With climate change intensifying the frequency and severity of hot spells, some forecasts suggesting 40 °C days could become a regular feature in the next 12 years, it’s essential to understand these lesser-known risks and how to protect yourself.
1. Skin reactions triggered by common medications
Certain widely-used medications can increase sensitivity to sunlight, making people more prone to rashes, blistering, and sunburn—even on cloudy days. This includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, some antibiotics such as doxycycline, statins, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
If you are taking these medications, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and limit your exposure to direct sunlight. It’s also worth consulting your pharmacist to confirm whether your medicines are photosensitising.
2. Medication breakdown in high temperatures
Many people are unaware that heat can reduce the effectiveness of certain medications. Medicines stored in hot environments—such as parked cars, near windows, or in steamy bathrooms—may degrade or fail to work properly.
Insulin, for example, can lose potency if not kept within the recommended temperature range. Always check the storage instructions on packaging and use a cool bag or insulated storage when travelling with essential medicines.
3. Strain on the heart and lungs
Heatwaves place added stress on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. People with pre-existing heart conditions, high blood pressure, or asthma may be particularly vulnerable. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), even moderate increases in temperature can result in a rise in emergency service usage and hospital admissions.
If you or someone you care for has a heart or lung condition, monitor symptoms closely during warm spells. Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours (typically 11am to 3pm) and stay indoors in a cool environment where possible.
4. Heat exhaustion that escalates into emergency
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and cannot cool itself effectively. Symptoms include dizziness, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, nausea, rapid pulse, and fainting. If untreated, this can progress to heatstroke, a medical emergency.
According to NHS guidance, anyone showing signs of heat exhaustion should be moved to a cool place, given fluids, and cooled down within 30 minutes. If symptoms persist beyond this period, dial 999 immediately.
5. Dehydration and kidney problems
Excessive heat leads to fluid loss through sweating, increasing the risk of dehydration. For individuals taking medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, lithium, or NSAIDs, the risk of kidney damage becomes more significant when fluids are lost.
To avoid complications, drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Diluted squash and oral rehydration solutions can also help maintain electrolyte balance. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, both of which contribute to fluid loss.
6. Poor sleep and mental health effects
Hot nights can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep, leading to fatigue and irritability. Prolonged heat exposure can also worsen anxiety, agitation, and even contribute to a rise in suicide rates, according to some studies. The psychological toll of repeated extreme weather events is now recognised as a public health issue.
To maintain good sleep hygiene, keep your bedroom cool and ventilated. Close blinds during the day to block out sunlight and open windows in the evening when outdoor temperatures drop. Use light bedding and consider a fan if the room temperature stays below 35 °C.
7. Long-term damage from repeated exposure
Repeated exposure to extreme heat may contribute to chronic health conditions over time. This includes increased risk of kidney disease, cardiovascular strain, and metabolic disorders. UK health experts warn that, without mitigation and adaptation, the number of heat-related deaths could rise significantly in the coming years.
Heatwaves disproportionately affect the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and those with existing health conditions. As such, public awareness and preparedness are key.
Quick protection tips
Stay hydrated: Aim to drink water regularly. Add squash or electrolyte tablets if needed.
Keep medicines cool: Store according to label instructions, away from sunlight and moisture.
Stay indoors during peak heat: Avoid direct sun between 11am and 3pm.
Wear protective clothing: Lightweight fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+) are all essential.
Keep your home cool: Shut blinds, use fans below 35 °C, and open windows when cooler outside.
Recognise danger signs: Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion and stroke, and respond quickly.
Why this matters
A yellow heat-health alert is currently in effect across seven regions in England, including London, the Midlands, and the South East. Temperatures are expected to rise to around 32 °C this weekend, which may meet official criteria for a heatwave.
With the UK facing more extreme weather due to climate change, recognising and responding to these hidden health risks can save lives. Whether you're managing your own health, caring for family members, or working outdoors, being prepared for the heat is now more important than ever.
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Mourners at the funeral of BJP leader Vijay Rupani, who was among the victims of the Air India crash, in Ahmedabad
AROUND 200 passengers on the Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick have been identified, authorities in the Indian state of Gujarat said, as grieving families held the last rites of their loved ones following the crash last Thursday (12).
Hundreds of lives were changed in an instant when the London-bound plane slammed into a residential area of Ahmedabad, killing 241 people on board and at least 38 on the ground.
There was one survivor – British national Viswashkumar Ramesh, from Leicester – and he walked out of the aircraft as it burst into flames.
Community members pay their respects outside the home of the sole survivor of the crash
Medical officials at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital said they were working round the clock to identify victims through DNA testing. Rajnish Patel, a doctor at the hospital, said: “This is a meticulous and slow process, so it has to be done meticulously only.”
Dr Rakesh Joshi, the hospital’s medical superintendent, said 163 DNA samples had been matched so far, with 124 bodies handed over to family members from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar, Rajasthan and Diu.
Air India’s Catherine West with Indian high commissioner Vikram Doraiswami at India House
One victim’s relative, who did not want to be identified, said they had been instructed not to open the coffin when they receive it.
Authorities ordered inspections of Air India’s entire Dreamliner fleet, while investigators recovered both black boxes from the wreckage – the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder. Aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said decoding these devices would provide “indepth insight” into what caused the tragedy.
Family members pray beside the bodies of Dilip Patel and his wife Meena Patel, who died in the crash
His comments came as India’s aviation watchdog launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash; the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has asked Air India to provide training records for the pilots and the flight dispatcher.
The regulator has also asked flying schools nationwide to conduct strict compliance checks on training procedures, maintenance protocols and pilot licensing requirements.
A separate memo instructed governmentmanaged airports to carry out full-scale emergency training exercises on June 30.
On Monday (16), an Air India Dreamliner returned to Hong Kong airport “shortly after takeoff due to a technical issue” and underwent safety checks.
In Ahmedabad, families continued their anguished wait for news of their loved ones. The passenger manifest showed 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese, one Canadian, and 12 crew members aboard the illfated flight.
Rinal Christian, whose elder brother was aboard the aircraft, expressed frustration at the delays. “They said it would take 48 hours. But it’s been four days, and we haven’t received any response,” the 23-year-old said. “My brother was the sole breadwinner of the family. So, what happens next?”
Among those identified was Vijay Rupani, a senior member of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and former chief minister of Gujarat. His flag-draped coffin was carried by soldiers in Ahmedabad, accompanied by a portrait draped in flower garlands.
Another victim, 24-year-old Kinal Mistry, had postponed her original flight. Crowds gathered for her funeral procession in Anand district, two hours from Ahmedabad. Dozens of workers in yellow hard hats sifted through the wreckage and as debris clearance continued at the scorched crash site, families demanded explanations. Imtiyaz Ali, still awaiting DNA confirmation of his brother’s identity, voiced the feelings of many relatives: “Next step is to find out the reason for this accident. We need to know.”
Air India chairman N Chandrasekaran told staff on Monday (16) the incident should serve as “a catalyst to build a safer airline.” During a staff meeting, Chandrasekaran, 62, said, “I’ve seen a reasonable number of crises in my career, but this is the most heartbreaking one.
A police officer stands before the wreckage of the Air India aircraft
“We need to use this incident as an act of force to build a safer airline.
“We need to wait for the investigation. It’s a complex machine, so a lot of redundancies, checks and balances, certifications, which have been perfected over years and years. Yet this happens, so we will figure out why it happens after the investigation.” India’s prime minister Narendra Modi described the tragedy as “heartbreaking beyond words”, while UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer called the scenes from the crash “devastating”.
King Charles and Queen Camilla said they were “desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad.”
Both Air India and Boeing face fresh challenges following the crash. The Tata Group, which purchased the airline in 2022, has been working to overhaul its operations and safety standards.
Boeing faces renewed scrutiny following a series of safety and production crises. Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, visited Air India’s headquarters near New Delhi to discuss the incident with airline officials.
Across Britain, local communities came together in mourning as vigils and prayers were held in places of worship and town halls. At a Hindu temple in Harrow last Saturday (14), dozens of community members gathered for prayers, with leaders from Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Muslim, Parsi, Zoroastrian and other faiths offering tributes.
Many attendees had personal connections to victims aboard the Londonbound flight. The head of the Siddhashram Hindu temple, Rajrajeshwar Guruji, who is from Gujarat, likened families’ grief to “waiting and waiting” for loved ones who “are not going to come back again.”
“Some of the members... I have spoken to them, and they don’t have the words,” Guruji said. “They are in shock.”
Among those mourning was Jyotsna Shukla, 66, whose son’s childhood friend died alongside his wife and three children. “I feel very bad because he was so young,” she said before breaking into tears.
Harrow mayor Anjana Patel, who lost a family member in the disaster, reflected on the tragedy’s impact.
“We believe that everyone who is born has to go one day. But I hope nobody goes the way these passengers, as well as the medical students, have gone,” she said, announcing grief counselling services for affected families.
On Monday evening, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner joined a multifaith memorial service at the High Commission of India in central London, stressing the bonds between Britain and India during times of crisis.
“What struck me over the last few days is that the UK and India may be two countries separated by a vast distance, but in the ways that really count we are so very, very close,” Rayner told the gathering. “We mark our bond today in a simple and profound way. We grieve together.” India’s High Commissioner, Vikram Doraiswami, expressed gratitude for British support during this period of “profound grief and abiding shock.”
He noted how the tragedy demonstrated “the suddenness with which life could be extinguished,” affecting not just the 271 victims, but also families and friends.
Monday’s commemorative event coincided with a House of Commons debate on the crash, where foreign office minister Hamish Falconer updated Parliament on assistance efforts for affected British nationals. “With an Indian diaspora about two million strong here in Britain, and with a particularly prominent Gujarati community, we feel the pain of this tragedy together,” Falconer said, acknowledging the “pain and frustration” of families unable to lay loved ones to rest due to ongoing identification processes.
Conservative MP and shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel called it “a dark, sad and traumatic day for India, the UK and all those affected.” British investigators have joined the accident investigation team in India, with Falconer confirming that UK consular staff and family liaison officers are supporting British nationals through the traumatic identification process in Gujarat hospitals.