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AR Rahman to set-up a Broadway in Chennai; says, ‘I’m…

Celebrated music composer AR Rahman has unveiled his plans to establish a Broadway-style theatre in Chennai, and his team is already in the process of making it happen. Speaking at the ongoing Times Now Summit 2024 in Mumbai, Rahman said, “I don't see myself only in the movie world strangely,…

Ambani’s Reliance picks up stake in rival Adani firm

Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries has picked up a 26 per cent stake in a power project owned by rival billionaire Gautam Adani and signed a pact to use the plant's electricity for captive use. Reliance will pick up 50 million equity shares in Madhya Pradesh-based Mahan Energen Ltd, a wholly…

Discrimination case against hospital dismissed

An employment tribunal in Leeds has cleared a hospital in West Yorkshire of religious discrimination and racial profiling accusations made by a consultant doctor, according to media reports. Fahrat Butt, an ophthalmology specialist, who wears a hijab and covers everything other than her hands, feet and face while in public…

Blue Orchid Hospitality wins LUXlife magazine award

Luxury hotels and residences promoter Blue Orchid Hospitality has been declared the winner of the Best Business Travel Arrangements Company by LUXlife magazine. LUXlife Travel & Tourism Awards are given in recognition of the excellence of the sector’s best enterprises from across the globe. Blue Orchid has been recognised for…

Lord Ranger wins lengthy legal battle against former employee

ASIAN businessman and peer Lord Rami Ranger has seen claims of discrimination made against his companies by a former employee dismissed by an employment tribunal last Thursday (21). Ramandeep Kaur claimed £673,000 from Sun Mark Ltd and Sea, Air and Land Forwarding Ltd, taking her case to the president of…

Pakistan beefs up security for Chinese workers after attack

Pakistan has intensified security measures to protect Chinese engineers engaged in Beijing-backed projects in the nation's northwest following a deadly suicide bombing that claimed the lives of five workers, an official announced on Wednesday (27). China stands as one of Islamabad's closest regional allies, investing billions of dollars in various…

Ukraine’s foreign minister on two-day visit to India

UKRAINE'S Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba will arrive in New Delhi on his maiden visit to India amid the festering Russia-Ukraine conflict. His visit on Thursday (28) comes at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. During his…

Many unaware of changes in flexible working norms: Survey

Seven out of ten employees are unaware of a change in the law that will make it easier for them to avail flexible working conditions, says a survey. The amended law, which will come into force from April 6, will provide employees the right to apply for flexible work from…

‘Great rewiring’ of childhood creating anxious adults, says new book

Technology is grasping and overtaking in all fields, be it industry or everyday life. But with the ease of work, certain disadvantages are surfacing because of the increase in usage of technology. In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged, a significant rise in mental health issues among teenagers, particularly…

Zayn Malik says he wants to collaborate with Miley Cyrus

Singer Zayn Malik wants to collaborate with Miley Cyrus. Ever since launching his solo career in 2016, the former One Direction star has collaborated with such artists as Taylor Swift, Sia, and Timbaland, among others, and now he is open to joining forces with the Wrecking Ball singer. In a…

‘Always been a glorious right-wing personality’: Kangana Ranaut

From delivering some path-breaking performances in Bollywood to starting a new journey as a politician, actress Kangana Ranaut is ready to play a new role in her life. Ranaut on Wednesday opened about her new role as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi for the upcoming…

Baltimore bridge collapse: Rescuers find two bodies

THE bodies of two construction workers were found near Baltimore harbour Wednesday (27), after a giant cargo ship slammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing a thunderous collapse on Tuesday. Maryland police told reporters the workers were filling potholes on the bridge and the bodies were found trapped in…

Spielberg hails Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune: Part Two’ a masterpiece

This is high praise coming from the director behind classics like E.T. and Close Encounters. Spielberg went a step further, placing Villeneuve among the ranks of cinematic 'world-builders' like Stanley Kubrick, George Lucas, and Federico Fellini. Villeneuve's masterful world-building resonated deeply with Spielberg, who particularly admired the scene featuring Paul…

That was insane: Pat Cummins

"Insane" was the only word that Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins could think of to sum up the six-hitting slugfest against Mumbai Indians in the IPL played in Hyderabad on Wednesday. It was a game of many firsts as SRH smashed 277 for three, the highest total in IPL history.…

Exclusive: Asians need better cancer services

CANCER screening services must be more culturally competent and sensitive to the needs of south Asians - especially women, a leading doctor has told Eastern Eye. Dr Chaand Nagpaul, the first person of colour to lead the doctors’ union, the British Medical Association (BMA), said south Asian women were less…

King Charles to hail friendship in his Easter message

King Charles III will stress the importance of acts of friendship, "especially in a time of need", in an Easter message Thursday that follows his and the Princess of Wales's cancer diagnoses. The pre-recorded audio comments will be broadcast in his absence at a Maundy Thursday service in Worcester Cathedral…

Sri Lankan Buddhist monk gets jail for Islamophobic comments

A firebrand Sri Lankan Buddhist majority hardliner monk was on Thursday sentenced to four years of rigorous imprisonment for Islamophobic comments made in 2016. Galagodatte Gnanasara, 49, was additionally fined Rs 100,000 by the High Court here. The monk, who was running an anti-Muslim minority campaign since 2012, was charged…

Aditi Rao Hydari, Siddharth tie the knot

Actor couple Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth tied the knot on Wednesday. Reports of the duo getting married were doing rounds on social media the whole day, but there was no confirmation from either of the actors or their representatives. The news of Aditi and Siddharth tying the knot was…

Bhansali’s ‘Heeramandi’ to release on Netflix on May 1

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ambitious web series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar will premiere on streaming service Netflix on May 1. The release date of the much-anticipated show was announced at a drone light show event held at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in South Mumbai. A sneak peek into the world…

We are monitoring Thames Water crisis: Hunt

Finance minister Jeremy Hunt said on Thursday that the government would continue to monitor Thames Water "very carefully" after the company said its shareholders had refused to stump up new equity. "The Treasury will continue to monitor very carefully what's happening at Thames Water. Our understanding is that the company…

Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal to launch homegrown fashion label

Actor-couple Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal on Thursday announced they will soon launch a fashion label that will empower and place a spotlight on local artisans. The two stars share a strong affinity for handmade clothes and with their new endeavour, they plan to breathe new life into one of…

The Role of Music in Slot Games: Crafting Soundtracks for…

If you're a game developer, sound designer, or just an avid gaming enthusiast, have you ever paused to think about the role that music plays in slot games? It's an element that's often taken for granted, yet it holds a significant influence on the gaming experience. Dive into the world…

Baltimore crash: Minor injury reported among Indian crew

THE owners of the Singapore-flagged cargo ship, Dali, announced on Wednesday (27) that one crew member from India sustained minor injury when the vessel collided with a bridge in Baltimore. However, the other 21 crew members are safe. The collision happened early Tuesday (26), causing part of the Francis Scott…

Sadhguru discharged from hospital after brain surgery

SPIRITUAL leader Sadhguru was discharged from a private hospital in New Delhi on Wednesday (27), days after he underwent an emergency brain surgery after suffering "life-threatening" bleeding in the skull, the Isha Foundation said. The foundation issued a statement that quoted joint managing director of the Apollo Hospitals Group, Sangita…

December ban on onion exports extended despite fall in prices

INDIA extended its ban on exports indefinitely – a surprise move ahead of a general election and is set to exacerbate high prices in some overseas markets.   India is the world’s biggest exporter of the vegetable and the country imposed the ban in December. It was due to expire…

Dhamija urges diaspora to believe in ‘Indian century’

ENTEPRENEUR Dinesh Dhamija has told Eastern Eye he wrote The Indian Century because he wants the 30 million-strong Indian diaspora across the world, but especially in the UK, to invest back in the mother country. The interview about his new book, in which he gives an upbeat assessment of the…

Boat migrants hit new three-month high, pressure on Sunak

More than 4,600 asylum seekers have arrived in Britain on small boats so far in 2024, a record total for the first three months of the year. This is bound to put pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his 'stop the boats' plan. Provisional data from the Home Office,…

Trafalgar Square to host Vaisakhi celebrations

Trafalgar Square will host this year's Vaisakhi celebrations in London on 6 April, a statement said. The free family event, organised by the mayor of London and supported by the Vaisakhi community advisory group, will be co-hosted by DJ and presenter Tommy Sandhu and entrepreneur, disability specialist and speaker Shani…

‘NHS waiting times can be slashed by getting surgeries done…

NHS waiting times for operations could be slashed drastically if patients had their elective surgeries done at worldclass hospitals in India. This was one of the radical ideas put forward last Tuesday (19) by senior Indian corporate leaders at a business conference in London. Another was for undergraduates and postgraduates…

Miami Open: Bopanna-Ebden reach semifinals

INDIAN tennis stalwart Rohan Bopanna and his Australian teammate Matthew Ebden advanced to their third men's doubles semi-final this year, defeating Dutchman Sem Verbeek and Aussie John-Patrick Smith at the Miami Open. The duo, who had won the Australian Open earlier this year, overcame several unforced errors in the first…

India summons US envoy after remarks on Kejriwal arrest

India on Wednesday summoned a top United States diplomat after Washington said it was "closely watching" events following the jailing of a senior opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal weeks ahead of parliamentary elections. The US State Department had urged India to ensure a "fair, transparent, and timely legal process" for Kejriwal,…

Shekhar Kapur, Karan Johar to conduct masterclass at Cinevesture Intl…

The Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF) on Tuesday announced the line-up of panel discussions and masterclasses at its first edition, to be held in Chandigarh from March 27 to 31. The 20 masterclasses and panel discussions will feature Shekhar Kapur, Karan Johar, Jaideep Ahlawat, Tahira Kashyap, Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal,…

Kohli and Babar can spark US cricket boom, says Plunkett

ENGLAND World Cup winner Liam Plunkett says cricket superstars such as Virat Kohli and Babar Azam can help bolster the game in the United States when it hosts the T20 World Cup. The Twenty20 showpiece, which starts on June 1, is being jointly staged by the United States and the…

Why a Taj Mahal in black was planned, but never…

One of the seven wonders of the world and also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan, in the Indian city of Agra. While everyone knows the monument and the love story behind it, nobody knows about this replica of this popular…

‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise set for a reboot

If you loved watching Pirates of the Caribbean films, here's an update for you. The franchise is getting a reboot. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who produced each of the five Pirates movies that starred Johnny Depp as his iconic pirate character Captain Jack Sparrow, in a recent interview with ComicBook.com said…

Collaborating with Ridley Scott for ‘Alien’ is like a dream…

Actor Adarsh Gourav feels fortunate to receive an opportunity to work under the supervision of legendary director Ridley Scott in the Alien prequel series The Alien prequel show, helmed by acclaimed writer and director Noah Hawley, unfolds 70 years before the events depicted in the first Alien film released in…

Supermarket offers free snacks as food bills soar

MORRISONS has teamed up with Warburtons to offer free crumpets to customers facing rising food bills this Easter. The ‘Ask for Ellen’ campaign will provide free toasted crumpets with butter and jam to anyone who asks for Ellen - no questions asked. An estimated 100,000 portions of two crumpets will…

KFC outlet fined £25,000 for poor hygiene

A KFC outlet in London was fined around £25,000 for posing a risk to public health, after rats were found in the kitchen during a surprise inspection. The Waltham Forest Council inspected a KFC outlet in High Road, Leytonstone, East London, in August 2022 and ordered its closure with immediate…

Female Muslim prison service officer speaks about her Ramadan observance

A prison officer named Sobia Parveen, a 31-year-old, talks about the observance of the holy month of Ramadan while she is posted in HMP Sudbury, a category D rehabilitation and resettlement prison near Ashbourne in Derbyshire that is home to around 600 prisoners. Parveen, with her experience, also motivates people…

Bridgerton star shines in solo coming-of-age drama

THE solo show earlier performed by its writer, Rosie Day, returned recently with a new production in central London, headlined by Charithra Chandran. The Bridgerton star makes her West End debut in a coming-of-age play about a young teenage girl named Eileen, dealing with the death of her elder sister,…

Sai Tamhankar to star opposite Emraan Hashmi & Pratik Gandhi…

Sai Tamhankar is set to take her association with Excel Entertainment to the next level with two interesting projects including Ground Zero and Agni, starring opposite Emraan Hashmi and Pratik Gandhi, respectively. The announcement of Sai Tamhankar’s involvement in Ground Zero and Agni, unveiled as part of Amazon Prime Video's…

Nikesh Mehta appointed as British high commissioner to Singapore

NIKESH MEHTA OBE has been appointed as British high commissioner to Singapore, an official statement announced on Wednesday (27). He will assume charge in July. He will succeed Kara Owen CMG who was transferred to another diplomatic service, the statement added. Currently, Mehta is director for policy and requirements at…

Heart rhythm specialists to treat patients in India

Charity organisation Arrhythmia Alliance Pace4Life (A-A P4L) is sending a team of heart rhythm specialists to India to treat people suffering from arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. Doctors from Milton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust and North Middlesex University Hospital will treat 100 patients at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher…

Vin Diesel shares new pic with Deepika, says he had…

Hollywood star Vin Diesel has shared a throwback photo with his XXX: Return of Xander Cage co-star Deepika Padukone from his maiden trip to India back in 2017. Diesel had visited India to promote the American action thriller, which marked Padukone's Hollywood debut. In his Instagram post on Tuesday, the…

Baltimore crash: Biden praises prompt action of Indian crew

US president Joe Biden hailed the prompt action of the 22-member Indian crew of the cargo ship that struck and demolished a key bridge for saving lives by alerting local authorities before the dramatic collision. Baltimore's 2.6 km-long Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after the container ship manned entirely by…

Sri Lanka’s Gunawardena says China to develop ‘strategic infrastructure’

PRIME MINISTER of Sri Lanka on Wednesday (27) announced that China has committed to enhancing the strategic deep-sea port and the capital's airport of the island nation following discussions with his counterpart in Beijing. Prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena said China -- the island's biggest bilateral creditor -- would "assist" Sri…

Ravindra, Dube shine as Chennai thrash Gujarat

NEW ZEALAND's Rachin Ravindra hit an explosive 46 and took three catches to help holders Chennai Super Kings to their second straight IPL win with a 63-run thrashing of Gujarat Titans on Tuesday (26). The left-handed Ravindra, in his debut IPL season, made his runs off 20 balls while captain…

Pakistan interior ministry ordered X blockade, court told

PAKISTAN’S communications authority has admitted in papers filed in the court that it was ordered by the interior ministry to shut down the social media platform X – now in its fifth week of outages. The newly-elected government has been evasive over the censorship of the micro-blogging site formerly known…

Explainer: Why did the Baltimore bridge collapse?

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early on Tuesday after a container ship smashed into a pylon, with the six people missing presumed dead after falling into the frigid water below. Authorities stopped people from using the bridge after the ship sent out a mayday call, which Maryland's governor said…

Public satisfaction with NHS at all-time low, says survey

Public satisfaction with the NHS has plunged to a historic low with long waiting periods and staff shortages cited as main concerns, according to the British Social Attitudes survey. Just 24 per cent of respondents said they were satisfied with the NHS in 2023, and this is five percentage points…

Alia Bhatt to host ‘Hope Gala’ in London

Actress, producer, and entrepreneur Alia Bhatt is set to host her first 'Hope Gala' in London. As per a source close to the actress' team, Alia will host Hope Gala on March 28 in partnership with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. This is…

UK’s Tate Modern Museum inducts Sonam Kapoor in its South…

Actress Sonam Kapoor feels honoured as global art museum Tate Modern inducted her as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee. In a statement shared by the actress' team, Sonam said, "I'm deeply honoured to join the prestigious Tate Modern as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee.…

‘Big Boss 17’ winner among 14 detained after raid at…

Stand-up comedian and Bigg Boss - 17 winner Munawar Faruqui was among 14 persons detained by the Mumbai police after they were found smoking hookahs during a raid in south Mumbai, an official said on Wednesday. The Social Service branch of the city police conducted the raid at a hookah…

OakNorth completes £232m loan to Splendid Hospitality Group

OAKNORTH BANK has partnered with HSBC to provide a £232 million club loan to Splendid Hospitality Group to support its future expansion plans, a statement said. Founded three decades ago, Splendid Hospitality Group is one of the UK’s fastest growing privately-owned hotel groups, with a portfolio of 24 hotels from…

Councils get £850m towards facilities for children with special needs

There is an investment push for the welfare of students with special educational needs and disabilities. Councils have been provided with an annual allocation of £850 million to create new places for such students in mainstream and special schools, and to improve the accessibility of existing buildings. This will provide…

Virtual Casino Floor: Where to Find Online Casino Games On…

Online casinos have become one of the best choices for digital entertainment in recent years. Their popularity has even spiked earlier in the decade due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the numbers still remain higher than in ages past - like the days of the dot-com bubble. Of course, things have…

Unlock the Aurora: Northern Lights Photo Tours

The aurora borealis, a celestial ballet of light dancing across the night sky, is a phenomenon that captures the imagination and wonder of all who see it. This natural spectacle, known as the northern lights, is not just a visual treat but a soul-stirring experience. For photographers, amateur and professional…

Royal health concerns spark renewed interest in Nostradamus prophecies

In recent developments concerning the health of members of the UK royal family, ancient predictions by the renowned 15th-century prophet Nostradamus have resurfaced, sparking intrigue and speculation about the monarchy's future. Nostradamus, known for his eerily accurate forecasts, had previously predicted significant historical events, including the death of Queen Elizabeth…

Baltimore crash: All-Indian crew safe

A MAJOR bridge in the US city of Baltimore collapsed early on Tuesday (26) after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and people plunging into the frigid harbour below. Its 22-member crew were said to be Indian nationals and have survived. Grace Ocean Private Ltd owns the…

Cheistha wanted to change lives, says family of Indian girl…

THE family of a cyclist who died following a road accident said the London School of Economics (LSE) student wanted to "bring all her expertise back to India to change lives". Cheistha Kochhar, who was pursuing her PhD in behavioural research, died following a collision involving a refuse lorry on…

‘Every woman deserves dignity’: Kangana reacts to politician’s derogatory remarks

Every woman, irrespective of her background and profession, deserves dignity, actress Kangana Ranaut said on Tuesday as Congress leaders’ comments on Mandi from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha elections snowballed into a massive political row. Ranaut, who makes her political debut as a BJP candidate from Mandi in…

King Charles to make public appearance since cancer diagnosis for…

Britain's King Charles III is set to make his first major public appearance since his cancer diagnosis was revealed last month. Buckingham Palace announced today that the 75-year-old monarch will attend the traditional royal Easter service at St. George's Chapel in Windsor on Sunday, signalling his gradual return to public…

In historic first, Saudi Arabia to participate in Miss Universe…

Saudi Arabia will participate in the Miss Universe pageant for the first time, making it a historic event for the Islamic country. Rumy Alqahtani, a beauty pageant veteran and an influencer on Monday announced this news on her Instagram handle that she will be representing the kingdom in one of…

Stephen Lawrence’s legacy remembered

London Police partnered with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation to host an event for people aged 15-18 from diverse backgrounds. As part of the event, careers fair and panel discussions were held on March 23 at the City of London Corporation’s headquarters ahead of Stephen Lawrence Day. It is observed…

Microsoft AI head Mustafa Suleyman’s is a success story of…

Mustafa Suleyman, a prominent figure in Artificial Intelligence (AI), recently took the helm of Microsoft's newly formed consumer AI division, Microsoft AI. Suleyman's background is far from that of a typical tech CEO. Mustafa Suleyman's upbringing was shaped by his family in London. His father, a Syrian taxi driver, instilled…

‘Performing in India always an electrifying experience,’ says Marshmello

Grammy-nominated producer and DJ Marshmello recently delivered smashing performances across Bengaluru, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune over the Holi weekend, dishing out some of his biggest hits including 'Happier', 'Alone', 'Friends', 'Blocks', 'Wolves', 'Find Me' and 'Silence'. He shared his experience performing in India. “Performing in India is always an…

Trailer for Archie Punjabi-starrer ‘Under the Bridge’ out

The trailer for Under the Bridge, starring Emmy winner Archie Punjabi, Academy Award nominee Lily Gladstone, and Emmy Award nominee Riley Keough has been unveiled by Hulu. Under the Bridge is a true crime story written by Rebecca Godfrey, who passed away from lung cancer just after the series was…

Prof Malik becomes first Asian female High Sheriff of West…

ADEEBA MALIK has been appointed as the first Asian female High Sheriff for West Yorkshire, according to a statement released on Tuesday (26). She took oath at Leeds High Court on Monday (25) in a formal ceremony presided by High Court Judge Sir Nicholas Hilliard, the statement added. Professor Malik’s…

Avantika Vandanapu: I can’t wait to be a part of…

Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu, who garnered positive response for her performance in Prime Video’s Big Girls Don't Cry, says she cannot wait to be a part of Indian movies. “It’s truly surreal to come full circle and return to India. From my roots as a child actor to now leading…

Bestway Group’s revenue increases to £4.74bn

THE Bestway Group has reported a five per cent increase in revenues to £4.74 billion for the year ended June 2023, a statement said. The group, founded by Sir Anwar Pervez, OBE H Pk, reported a pre-tax profit of £420.9 million during the period, Lord Zameer Choudrey CBE, group chief…

Uber Eats driver gets payout over racially-biased face scans

An Uber Eats driver of African descent received a payout to end a legal claim against "racially discriminatory" facial-recognition checks. Pa Edrissa Manjang began working for the food delivery platform in November 2019, but later the facial-recognition checks prevented him from accessing the app to secure work. The Microsoft-powered Uber…

Lenmeldy, a lifesaving gene therapy, now the world’s most expensive…

Lenmeldy, a new gene therapy for the rare and fatal childhood disease metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), has become the world's most expensive drug, at a whopping $4.25 million (£3.350 million). MLD is a brutal illness that strikes toddlers and affects their ability to walk and talk. It's a heartbreaking reality for…

Review wants Nottingham stabbing case reclassified as homicide

A REVIEW into the murder of three people in Nottingham last year has led to recommendations to amend the homicide law after the victims’ families criticised the sentencing of the perpetrator. Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar, both 19, and Ian Coates, 65, were stabbed to death on 13 June. Valdo…

Edinburgh council backs first statue to named person of colour

EDINBURGH council has backed building the city’s first statue dedicated to a named person of colour. Plans to mark the legacy of former teacher and race relations campaigner Saroj Lal are set to be unveiled after councillors unanimously backed the creation of a “permanent memorial”. Lal, who in the 1970s…

Makers roll out trailer for ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’

The trailer for Pooja Entertainment’s upcoming epic action entertainer Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is out now. It offers a larger-than-life spectacle brimming with camaraderie and courage between the lead actors Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. The grand trailer launch was held in Mumbai, attended by the entire star cast and…

Kohli’s 77 leads Bengaluru’s victory over Punjab

VIRAT KOHLI on Monday (25) said he has "still got it" in him to ace T20 cricket after his attacking 77 guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their first win of this IPL season. Master batsman Kohli smashed 11 fours and two sixes in his 49-ball blitz as hosts Bengaluru chased…

Cillian Murphy to star in mining drama ‘Blood Runs Coal’

Irish star Cillian Murphy is set to headline a new feature film for Hollywood studio Universal Pictures. Murphy, who recently bagged his maiden Best Actor Oscar trophy for Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, will star in a period mining drama, titled Blood Runs Coal, according to entertainment news outlet The Hollywood Reporter.…

Call to relax terms for foreign healthcare workers

AN online petition urging the government to allow foreign healthcare workers more time to find a job after their sponsors fail them has attracted hundreds of signatures within days. Under tougher rules that came into effect earlier this month, care providers in England acting as sponsors for migrants are required…

Pakistan minister keen on resuming PIA flights to UK

PAKISTAN foreign minister Ishaq Dar held telephonic talks with his British counterpart David Cameron on Monday (25) and stressed the need for early resumption of flights of Pakistan's national carrier to the United Kingdom. The UK and several other countries suspended Pakistan International Airline (PIA) flights in 2020 due to…

Microsoft names Pavan Davuluri as new windows chief

MICROSOFT has named Indian American Pavan Davuluri as the new head of its Windows and Surface divisions, The Verge reported on Monday (25). Davuluri, an IIT Madras graduate, has been appointed to the position following Panos Panay's departure to Amazon. His new role places him among the ranks of Indian…

Holi celebrated for first time at Leicester’s Rushey Fields

The first-ever Holi celebration at Rushey Fields Recreation Ground was a smashing success, according to the organisers. Around a hundred community members, including local councillors, joined the festivities at the nearby Shree Hanuman Temple. Holi, also known as the festival of colours, holds deep significance in Hindu culture and marks…

China accused of hacking MPs’ emails, electoral watchdog

Britain on Monday accused Chinese hackers of trying to break into email accounts of British lawmakers who were critical of China and said a separate Chinese entity was behind a hack of its electoral watchdog that compromised millions of people's data. In response to the attempted hack in 2021 of…

Pakistan naval airbase attacked; five militants killed

Militants attacked a Pakistan naval airbase in the turbulent southwest region killing at least one paramilitary soldier while security forces killed all five of the assailants in retaliatory fire, officials said on Tuesday. Monday's attack on the Turbat base was the second assault by ethnic Baloch militants on a military…

‘RRR’ star Ram Charan to team up with ‘Pushpa’ director

RRR star Ram Charan and Pushpa: The Rise director Sukumar are set to collaborate on a feature film, the makers announced on Monday. The movie, which marks Charan's 17th project, will be produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings. Composer DSP of Pushpa fame will score the music for…

Citizenship removal: Shamima Begum loses first bid to move top…

Shamima Begum, who travelled to Syria eight years ago to support IS group, has lost the initial bid to challenge the removal of her British citizenship at the Supreme Court. The government stripped Begum's citizenship on national security grounds in 2019, leaving her stateless. Last year, she lost her first…

Fatima Sana Shaikh: ‘I wasn’t quite sure about playing Indira…

Fatima Sana Shaikh, who began her acting career as a child artist, gained widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Geeta Phogat in Aamir Khan’s 2016 film Dangal. She recently played India’s former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in filmmaker Meghna Gulzar's highly acclaimed film Sam Bahadur. Through her compelling performance, she…

Freedom-restricting harassment crippling democracy: Report

The Government’s adviser on social cohesion and resilience, Dame Sara Khan, has said Britain’s diverse and cohesive democracy, built on centuries of hard‑won rights, was facing numerous threats. In the study titled 'The Khan review', she said now there is a growing climate of threats and harassment leading to serious…

Dev Patel says ‘Monkey Man’ is about ‘what’s going on…

Dev Patel, who made his acting debut with Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire in 2008, is presently busy promoting his directorial debut Monkey Man, which had its world premiere at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival. Speaking at SXSW, the 33-year-old actor said that his film reflects contemporary issues in India…

Only 9 per cent happy with handling of immigration: Survey

There is more widespread unhappiness among the people over immigration than at any point since the Brexit referendum, according to a survey by Ipsos and British Future. Nearly seven out of ten respondents (69 per cent) said they were dissatisfied with the government's handling of immigration, against just 9 per…

Comment: Sunak’s immigration headache

No issue has caused Rishi Sunak more trouble as prime minister than immigration. He identifies himself as a prime minister with a plan, determined to deliver. That has been a challenging battle on the economy and public services, but has been most difficult of all on immigration. The government has increased…

All 12 outlets of McDonald’s in Sri Lanka shut over…

McDonald's stores across Sri Lanka shut Sunday after the US fast-food giant launched a legal battle with its local franchise holder over allegations of poor hygiene, court officials said. The Commercial High Court of Colombo ordered the closures until April 4, after the parent company accused the local franchise holder…

Gujarat keeps nerve, Royals start on winning note

Gujarat Titans edged out Mumbai Indians by six runs in an IPL thriller on Sunday as Hardik Pandya suffered a defeat as Mumbai captain after he controversially replaced Rohit Sharma. Rohit (43) and Dewald Brevis (46) shone in Mumbai's chase of their 169 target with a third-wicket stand of 77…

Team ‘RRR’ marks 2 years of SS Rajamouli film

The team of RRR on Monday marked two years of the blockbuster film's release, calling the SS Rajamouli directorial "the most celebrated film" in Indian cinema. Released on March 25, 2022, RRR followed a pre-independence fictional story woven around two real-life Indian revolutionaries — Alluri Sitarama Raju, played by Ram Charan,…

Pakistan to restart drive to repatriate Afghan refugees

Pakistan is preparing to launch the second phase of repatriation of undocumented Afghans, amid tense relations between the two countries, a media report said on Monday. The Interior Ministry had issued directives to district authorities and police to expedite the mapping, and collecting data of the whereabouts of the Afghan…

Indian student dies in London road accident

An Indian student pursuing her PhD at the London School of Economics died while cycling to her apartment last week. The victim, Cheistha Kochhar (33), died on the spot after being hit by a garbage truck on March 19. The accident took place on Clerkenwell Road, near the junction with…

Indians have so much passion, says American singer Allen Ling

Music connects people, says American singer-songwriter Allen Ling, who was recently in India along with Flipsyde guitarist Dave Lopez to promote their latest single "Closer" in the country. The artist, primarily a physical therapist who began his music career a year ago, has swiftly climbed to the top of the…

10 Bollywood songs that need to be on your Holi…

Today is the day of the most joyous and colourful celebration of the year – Holi! And what's a Holi party without the perfect playlist to keep the energy high and the spirits soaring? Bollywood has gifted us with numerous iconic songs that perfectly capture the essence of this festival,…

Armaan Malik collaborates with AR Rahman for ‘Goat Life’ track

Singer Armaan Malik has collaborated with music composer AR Rahman for a soulful track for survival drama movie The Goat Life. The track, titled "Khatti Si Woh Imli", is part of the Hindi version of the Malayalam movie, which is set to be released in theatres on March 28. Penned…

Actors Kangana Ranaut and Arun Govil to contest India polls

Actors Kangana Ranaut and Arun Govil, who were named as part of the list of 111 candidates for the Lok Sabha polls by the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) on Sunday, expressed happiness and gratitude to the political party for nominating them for the upcoming elections. Ranaut said she is…

Russell, Rana help KKR survive Klaasen fury

Harshit Rana's resilience in the final over and Andre Russel's muscling fifty helped Kolkata Knight Riders survive Heinrich Klaasen's six-hitting spree and score a thrilling four-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL match here on Saturday (23). Klaassen almost turned the match on its head with a 29-ball 63…

Trader fined for selling illegal tobacco

An Asian-origin trader in Hillingdon was recently fined more than £3,400 for selling illegal and smuggled tobacco products. The trader, Kultar Rajwansi, from Hayes has pleaded guilty to 26 offences at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on March 5. Hillingdon Council’s trading standards team carried out an inspection following reports from some…

Indian woman dies in car accident in US

A 24-year-old Indian professional died in a car accident in the US state of Pennsylvania. The consulate general of India in New York said in a post on X on Saturday that Arshia Joshi lost her life in a tragic car accident in Pennsylvania on March 21. The consulate said…

Pakistan keen to restore trade ties with India: Minister

Pakistan will “seriously” consider restoring trade ties with India that remained suspended since August 2019, Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar has said, indicating a potential shift in the country's diplomatic stance. Dar made these remarks during a press conference in London following his participation in the Nuclear Energy Summit in…

Princess of Wales ‘touched’ by support after cancer announcement

CATHERINE, the Princess of Wales, and her husband, Prince William, have been "enormously touched" by the messages of support received following her shock announcement that she is being treated for cancer, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said on Saturday. Catherine said on Friday she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after tests done…

Preity Zinta shares video of adorable rehearsal with Shah Rukh…

Preity Zinta is giving fans a major dose of nostalgia! The Bollywood actress took to Instagram on Friday to share a heartwarming video of herself and Shah Rukh Khan rehearsing the iconic song "Tere Liye" from their beloved film Veer-Zaara. The clip, which has gone viral on social media, shows…

Indra Nooyi’s advice to Indian students in US: ‘Be watchful’

AMID a string of tragic and concerning incidents involving Indian students in the US, former CEO of PepsiCo Indra Nooyi has advised them to be "watchful", respect local laws and urged them to not engage in drugs or excessive drinking to ensure their safety and security in the country. Nooyi,…

W.i.S.H: Everything you need to know about India’s newest girl-pop…

In the vibrant landscape of India’s music industry, a new constellation has emerged, promising to dazzle audiences with their infectious beats and empowering messages. Meet W.i.S.H, the nation’s newest girl-pop group, poised to captivate hearts and minds with their distinctive pop melodies. W.i.S.H, an acronym for “World inka Stage Hai”,…

New study discovers Shakespeare’s sister’s unknown literary talent

William Shakespeare, the Bard of Avon, has captivated audiences for centuries. But what about his sister, Joan? Largely unknown, her story remained shrouded in mystery—until now. A remarkable discovery by Professor Matthew Steggle of the University of Bristol sheds new light on Joan Shakespeare. Through a meticulous analysis of digital…

Sunak on new England football kit row: ‘Don’t mess with…

PRIME MINISTER Rishi Sunak waded into a row over a new England football shirt designed by Nike that changes the colours of the St George's Cross, saying "we shouldn't mess" with national flags. The US sportswear giant altered the appearance of the Cross -- the flag of England -- using…

SMASHBengali and Guranisha Randhawa to host BBC Asian chat show…

BBC Asian Network on Friday announced the launch of new chat show in a podcast format, One More Chai, coming to the station on Wednesdays (22:00 – 23:00) from 17 April. One More Chai will be hosted by SMASHBengali and Guranisha Randhawa, who will team up to chat through various…

Country in shock after Princess of Wales’ cancer announcement

AFTER weeks of wild speculation, the country was on Saturday (23) digesting the shock news that the Princess of Wales has cancer, with many praising her courage and others criticising those who spread conspiracies. The Princess revealed the news on Friday (22) in a highly personal video, which came just…

Mustafizur’s brilliance propels Chennai Super Kings to victory

BANGLADESH's Mustafizur Rahman returned figures of 4-29 to set up a six-wicket win for defending champions Chennai Super Kings in the IPL opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday (22). Hosts Chennai kept Bengaluru down to 173-6, a total their batsmen overhauled in 18.4 overs at the M A Chidambaram…

Sanya Malhotra’s ‘Mrs’ to be screened at Hawaii International Film…

Filmmaker Arati Kadav's latest film Mrs, a remake of the Malayalam critical hit The Great Indian Kitchen, is set to be screened at the 2024 edition of Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF). The film, described as a poignant exploration of resilience, will be screened on two days at the festival,…

Bhutanese artists perform Hindi songs during Modi’s visit

India and Bhutan share a unique and exemplary bilateral relationship founded on mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to the country, Bhutanese artists dived into Indian culture with songs featured prominently in the cultural celebrations at the Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu on Friday.…

Princess of Wales undergoing chemotherapy after cancer diagnosis

PRINCESS OF WALES said on Friday (22) she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after tests taken after she had major abdominal surgery in January revealed that cancer had been present. The Princess, 42-year-old wife of heir to the throne Prince William, called the cancer discovery a "huge shock". The news comes…

India planning own democracy index, after global downgrades

After India's democratic credentials faced a series of downgrades by various international agencies, the Narendra Modi administration is planning to develop a homegrown democracy ratings index to counter the Western narrative, Al Jazeera reports. Though the Indian government has been publicly dismissive of these reports, it is keen to retain…

Beyond Wheelchairs: Pioneering Paths with Alternative Mobility Solutions

The world of mobility is as vast and diverse as the individuals it serves. For decades, wheelchairs have been the emblem of accessibility and independence, but the landscape is evolving, with innovative alternatives emerging to cater to a spectrum of needs and preferences. In this exploration, we embark on a…

Police step in as Indian brothers transform car into ‘helicopter’

INDIAN police seized a DIY car project from two enterprising brothers who had modified their small Suzuki hatchback to resemble a helicopter, an effort to make money by renting it out to wedding parties. Ishwardin and Parmeshwardin Prajapati spent nearly $3,000 (£2,380) to attach small rotor blades to the roof…

Instagrammer’s passion project sees him try over 600 sandwiches ‘from…

While one person savours different types of dishes and cuisines, Barry Enderwick, a consultant living in Silicon Valley, has tasted multiple types of sandwiches, which we cannot even imagine, and he has made it pretty evident on his Instagram account. Enderwick, after a college expulsion, eventually found his footing in…

Modi’s party acting out of panic, says India’s opposition

VARIOUS constituents of the INDIA bloc condemned Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest on Thursday (21) and claimed that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is scared of the outcome of the upcoming polls and acting out of panic to create problems for the opposition. Soon after Kejriwal's arrest by…

This refurbished mine in Wales is the world’s ‘deepest’ hotel

The rugged peaks of Snowdonia National Park in Wales are a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Lush valleys unfurl beneath dramatic mountains, promising breathtaking vistas and crisp mountain air. But for the truly adventurous, a different kind of escape awaits—an escape not into the wild, but deep beneath it.…

IPL 2024: AR Rahman, Sonu Nigam perform at opening ceremony

Adding a musical touch to the grand opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League in Chennai, music maestros AR Rahman and Sonu Nigam left the audience in awe with their melodious performances. Sonu Nigam started his performance with the song 'Vande Mataram' and later Rahman joined him on stage. Not…

BBC acquires all seasons of Suits

BBC has bought all nine seasons of the beloved American legal drama Suits after it turned out to be one of the most watched shows on Netflix last year. Featuring Meghan Markle, Gabriel Macht, Patrick J Adams, Sarah Rafferty, Gina Torres, and Rick Hoffman on the ensemble cast, the series…

‘Monkey Man’: Second trailer for Dev Patel’s directorial debut out

After receiving a rousing response for the first trailer of Monkey Man, Universal Pictures has now dropped a second trailer for the much-anticipated directorial debut of Dev Patel. Inspired by the legend of Hanuman, the action thriller stars Patel as Kid, a young man who ekes out a meager living…

Police probing Tory donor’s alleged comments about Abbott

British police said on Friday they were investigating possibly racist comments allegedly made by the biggest donor to the ruling Conservative party at a meeting in 2019. The Guardian newspaper reported on March 11 that businessman Frank Hester - who gave £10 million to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's party in…

Reality show winner held in India for selling snake venom…

Gone are the days of mundane drugs like cocaine, marijuana, or even injectable drugs; the Indian ravers are more interested in experimenting with snake venom! Yes, as untrue as it sounds, the winner of Indian Bigg Boss season 2 on OTT, also a Youtuber, Elvish Yadav, has been arrested for…

Child poverty hits record high in UK, data shows

AN unprecedented rise in child poverty happened across the UK, government figures released Thursday (21) revealed. Previous research indicated that escalating social disparities within the G7 country are negatively impacting children's well-being, leading to an increased reliance on food banks. An estimated 4.33 million children were living in low-income households…

Shah Rukh-Kajol-starrer ‘Baazigar’ set to re-release in cinemas

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Shilpa Shetty-starrer cult film Baazigar is set for rerelease in cinemas. King Khan shared this exciting news with his fans. "Flashback to a time when magic unfolded on the silver screen! Inviting you to relive those moments at our Retro Film Festival with the…

Simone Ashley to lead romantic-comedy ‘Picture This’

Bridgerton star Simone Ashley is set to lead Picture This, a new romantic-comedy movie from streamer Prime Video. Actor Hero Fiennes Tiffin will play the male lead. To be directed by filmmaker Prarthana Mohan of The Miseducation of Bindu fame, the UK original movie is based on the recently-released Australian…

India’s super-rich control 40 per cent wealth: Study

Inequality in India has skyrocketed since the early 2000s and the income and wealth share of the top one per cent is among the highest in the world, says a study by the Paris-based World Inequality Lab. The paper titled 'Income and Wealth Inequality in India, 1922-2023: The Rise of…

‘The Crown’, ‘Black Mirror’ lead nominations for BAFTA Television Awards…

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) unveiled the nominations for their 2024 Television Awards on Wednesday. Leading the pack are The Crown with 8 nominations and Black Mirror with 7 nominations. Both dramas are up for the prestigious "Best Drama Series" award, alongside Happy Valley, Slow Horses,…

India finds involvement of rogue officials in Pannun assassination plot

AN Indian investigation has found that rogue officials, not authorised by the government, were involved in a foiled plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader in the US, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday (20). The report, citing unnamed senior officials, said at least one person directly involved in the alleged…

Australia tightens student visa rules

After Canada and the UK, Australia will enforce tougher visa rules for foreign students as official data showed migration hit another record high, which is likely to further exacerbate an already tight rental market. From Saturday, English language requirements for student and graduate visas will be increased, while the government…

British researchers develop first vaccine for lung cancer

British researchers are making a breakthrough in lung cancer treatment by developing the world's first vaccine for the disease. This vaccine, called LungVax, is being created by a team of scientists from the University of Oxford, the Francis Crick Institute, and University College London (UCL). It uses similar technology to…

Makers of ‘House of the Dragon 2’ drops two trailers

The makers of House of the Dragon dropped two distinct trailers for season 2. The first season of House of the Dragon concluded with Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) murdering Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy)'s son Lucerys (Elliot Grihault). Taking place 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, season 2 of House…

DJ Alan Walker to perform in India

Renowned DJ Alan Walker is set to enthrall the Indian audience. Alan Walker will perform from September to October this year, covering places like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, Pune, Shillong, Chennai and Kolkata. The Norwegian musician will be touring in support of his WalkerWorld, the first installment of…

Schneider Electric to make India its manufacturing hub

Energy management and automation major Schneider Electric plans to invest Rs 32 billion by 2026 to make India its manufacturing hub for domestic sales and exports. Under the plan, Schneider Electric on Thursday (21) inaugurated a facility in Bengaluru with Rs 1 billion investment to produce cooling solutions for data…

UN’s AI resolution calls for protecting human rights, personal data

THE UN general assembly on Thursday (21) unanimously passed the inaugural worldwide resolution on artificial intelligence, urging nations to uphold human rights, safeguard personal data, and oversee AI for potential hazards. The nonbinding resolution, proposed by the US and co-sponsored by China and over 120 other nations, also advocates the…

Delhi chief minister’s arrest sparks nationwide protests

DOZENS of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members were apprehended in New Delhi, with scattered demonstrations breaking out across India in opposition to the arrest of the party's prominent figure on corruption charges, just ahead of the upcoming general elections. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody by India's…

Starmer not easily accessible, says adviser on race Baroness Lawrence

While opinion polls may favour the Labour Party and its leader Kier Starmer, there is disquiet among some party members over his functioning. The latest to do so is Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon, who advices Starmer on race relations, The Times reports. At a recent private meeting of Labour’s ethnic…

Zomato scraps green uniform plan amid public backlash

INDIA's largest food delivery firm Zomato on Wednesday (20) ditched plans for green uniforms for a new vegetarian-only service, citing concerns the country's vast vegetarian population might then shun its regular service. The decision was taken less than 24 hours after Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal announced a green-coloured "Pure Veg"…

Easter eggs are now expensive due to climate change

This Easter, you might be surprised by the price hike on your favourite chocolate eggs. There's a culprit behind this sugary situation: climate change. The majority of cocoa, the key ingredient in chocolate, comes from West Africa. Unfortunately, this region has been ravaged by a brutal heatwave, significantly reducing cocoa…

Delhi chief minister opposed to Modi arrested in graft case

THE top politician in India's capital New Delhi was arrested Thursday (21) in a graft probe his supporters say is aimed at sidelining opponents to prime minister Narendra Modi ahead of national elections. Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi's chief minister and a key leader in an opposition alliance challenging Modi in next…

Hrithik Roshan-starrer ‘Fighter’ lands on Netflix

After having a successful run at the box office, Hrithik Roshan-starrer Fighter is now streaming on Netflix. On the film's streaming release, Hrithik said, "Fighter is our tribute to the Indian Air Force and with it streaming on Netflix, I'm looking forward to the reactions and hope Fighter entertains and…

Nirav Modi ordered to pay £6.3m to Bank of India

LONDON High Court has ordered fugitive Indian businessman, Nirav Modi, to repay a hefty sum of $8 million (£6.3m) to the Bank of India (BOI). The ruling was issued early this month after Modi's Dubai-based firm, Firestar Diamond FZE, failed to repay the loan it had received from the bank,…

No progress in ending racism, says Keith Vaz

ONE of Britain’s first ethnic minority members of parliament has told Eastern Eye of his regret at not being able to “move the dial forward” in the fight against racism, while urging the current generation to do more. Keith Vaz was the first Asian MP for nearly sixty years when…

Em Ratajkowski’s ‘Divorce Rings, ‘ a celebration of self and…

Gone are the days of tucking away reminders of failed relationships in dusty drawers. Actress and model Emily Ratajkowski, known by fans as EmRata, is rewriting the narrative. Following her 2022 divorce from Sebastian Bear-McClard, she's taking a bold approach to a symbol traditionally associated with commitment: the engagement ring.…

Pakistan seeking yet another bailout: IMF

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has confirmed that cash-strapped Pakistan is seeking a 24th medium-term bailout package for a permanent push towards longstanding structural reforms. In its end-of-mission statement on Wednesday (20), the global lender said that Pakistan has “expressed interest in a successor medium-term Fund-supported programme to permanently resolve…

India’s fertility rate drops to just under 2, further decline…

A new study published in The Lancet reveals a significant decline in India's fertility rate. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR), which represents the average number of births per woman, has dropped from a staggering 6.2 in 1950 to just under 2 in 2021. This trend is expected to continue, with…

Modi holds talks with Putin, Zelenskiy

INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi held separate phone calls on Wednesday (20) with Russian president Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskiy and discussed strengthening ties with both, ahead of a visit by the Ukrainian foreign minister to New Delhi. India has traditionally had close economic and defence ties with Moscow…

Pro-Khalistan activist jailed for stabbings

A 26-year-old pro-Khalistan Sikh activist who pleaded guilty to causing injury to two Asian-origin men and a female police officer at an Indian Independence Day event in London last year has been sentenced to 28 months imprisonment. Gurpreet Singh appeared at Isleworth Crown Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty in…

‘Bridgerton 3’ new teaser offers sneak peek into Kate and…

While we wait for the third installment of Bridgerton with bated breath, Netflix has teased us with a brand-new teaser in the run-up to the two-part release dates. The one-minute video offers a glimpse of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and Viscountess Kate Bridgerton (Simone Ashley) - whose love story…

Poor hygiene: Southall cash and carry fined £27,000

A cash and carry in Southall has been handed a hefty fine after rodent droppings were found on shelves next to food. The owners and manager of Sira Cash & Carry, at 43 South Road, have been issued with more than £27,000 due to an investigation by Ealing Council’s food…

Priyanka Chopra shares pictures from Ram temple visit

Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who offered prayers at the Ram temple in Ayodhya with her husband, American singer Nick Jonas, says she went to the shrine to seek blessings for their daughter Malti Marie Jonas. Two-year-old Malti accompanied her parents Priyanka, 41, and Nick, 31, on Wednesday to the temple…

Post office expert witness changed testimony: Report

An expert witness in the Post Office Horizon scandal was asked by the prosecutor to change his testimony, the BBC reports. Former chief IT architect at Fujitsu Gareth Jenkins rephrased parts of a report on the malfunctioning Horizon IT system following suggestions made by barrister Warwick Tatford. The evidence was…

IPL 2024: Dhoni relinquishes captaincy of Chennai Super Kings

CHENNAI SUPER KINGS are set to commence their Indian Premier League title defense against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, marking a potentially pivotal season for Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who resigned as captain on Thursday (21). Dhoni played his last international in 2019 but remains one of the country's most popular players, and…

Zayn Malik named as ambassador for Bradford City of Culture…

Bradford-born singer Zayn Malik is set to become the face of Bradford’s City of Culture year. The former One Direction star will be the city's ambassador and will attend some of the 1,000 events due to take place. Malik, 31, said, "Bradford is and always will be home to me.…

SS Rajamouli and family experience earthquake in Japan

Director SS Rajamouli and his son SS Karthikeya experienced an earthquake in Japan. Karthikeya, who is a producer, on Thursday, said he was on the 28th floor of a building in Japan when he felt an earthquake. He added that he was about to panic but the locals went about…

Artists to present Assamese dance traditions at The Nehru Centre

A remarkable cast of artists from both the UK and India will showcase Assam's vibrant dance traditions at an event at The Nehru Centre on Friday (22). The show will have a diverse array of folk dances, each one a window into the rich cultural heritage of a specific Assamese…

Sadhguru recovering at hospital after emergency brain surgery

SPIRITUAL leader Sadhguru, who underwent an emergency brain surgery at a private hospital in New Delhi after suffering “life-threatening” bleeding in the skull, is recovering well and making steady progress, Isha foundation said on Thursday (21). In an Instagram story posted on Wednesday (20), Sadhguru’s daughter Radhe Jaggi wrote, “For…

Gwadar terror attack: 10 killed in Pakistan

Heavily-armed Baloch insurgents on Wednesday stormed the Gwadar Port Authority complex in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province, but security forces foiled the attack and killed eight militants while losing two soldiers. The attack happened on the same day when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted that his government would not tolerate any…

Kareena Kapoor recreates 90s magic of ‘Choli Ke Peeche’ for…

Get ready for a blast from the past with a sizzling twist! The highly anticipated film Crew just dropped its latest song, "Choli Ke Peeche," featuring the ever-gorgeous Kareena Kapoor. This vibrant number is a total throwback to the iconic 90s hit of the same name, originally popularised by Madhuri…

Want to do a romantic Bollywood movie, says Ankita Lokhande

After Manikarnika and Swatantra Veer Savarkar, actress Ankita Lokhande says she wants to star in a contemporary Bollywood romance. Lokhande, who was last seen in Bigg Boss 17, is now awaiting the release of Swatantra Veer Savarkar with Randeep Hooda. The film is set to release on Friday. "Whatever characters…

Rwanda plan delayed again after new parliamentary defeats

THE passage of prime minister Rishi Sunak's contentious bill to deport refugees to Rwanda may be delayed until at least next month after the upper house of parliament defeated the government and reinstated demands for greater protections. The government wants to relocate thousands of asylum seekers who arrive in Britain…

How to Play Slots at Casino Apps?

This text describes how to play slots correctly through mobile apps. Tips and tricks to choose the best app to play slots in India. Find the benefits of playing slot games via casino apps. Manual on Playing Online Slots through Casino Apps There has been a huge boom in mobile…

House of Lords rejects Rwanda bill again

The passage of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's contentious bill to deport refugees to Rwanda may be delayed after the House of Lords defeated the government and reinstated a demand for greater protections. The government wants to relocate thousands of asylum seekers who arrive in Britain on boats to live in…

‘Burnt Sugar’: Deepa Mehta says her next film is ‘about…

Acclaimed Indo-Canadian filmmaker Deepa Mehta, whose latest documentary I Am Sirat is doing the rounds at various international film festivals across the world, has begun scripting her next film Burnt Sugar. The film is a silver-screen adaptation of Avni Doshi’s bestselling novel of the same name. Talking about the film,…

Jordan Peele praises ‘Monkey Man’, says ‘Dev Patel created a…

With his upcoming film Monkey Man, award-winning actor Dev Patel is set to begin his directorial career. Also featuring Sobhita Dhulipala and Sikander Kher in important roles, the film is set to enter cinemas on April 5, 2024. But do you know that Monkey Man was initially scheduled for a…

Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor start filming ‘RC 16’

Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor kickstarted the shooting of their upcoming film tentatively titled RC16 with a Pooja ceremony. On Wednesday, makers held a Pooja ceremony, where Janhvi and Ram were spotted together. Ram's wife Upasana Kamineni Konidela, father Chiranjeevi, and Janhvi's father Boney Kapoor were present at the event.…

How Made in Heaven TV Series Continues to Appeal to…

📺 TV Show Alert 🍿, "Made in Heaven" 🔹Current Season: 2🔹 The story of two wedding planners in Delhi, whe... Drama 🕒Prime Video #MadeinHeaven #season2 #PrimeVideo #Drama pic.twitter.com/wn7neSXlCc — Mufasa (@Mufas_a_) August 11, 2023 Premiering on 8 March 2019 on Amazon Prime Video, Made in Heaven is an Indian romantic…

Three from Jain family embrace monkhood

The Jain community in India is a minuscule minority, a tiny 0.4 per cent of the country's population, but they are also one of the most affluent mercantile class, with many of them closely associated with the diamond trade. Jains often live in mansions with fleets of luxury cars, and…

Businesses Continue to Benefit from India’s Expanding Data Centre Scene

A 2022 report showed that Amazon Web Services (AWS) had plans to extend data centres into four regions of India within two years. These regions, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi and Chennai, were part of AWS's larger vision of reaching 32 such local areas in 26 countries by 2024. Better Customer Experiences…

‘The Real Serpent’ dives into the complex mind of Charles…

Charles Sobhraj, the cunning criminal dubbed The Real Serpent for his ability to evade capture, has captivated audiences with his chilling story. The BBC drama series reintroduced his case, but tonight Channel 4 offers a new perspective - a documentary featuring Sobhraj himself. Charles Sobhraj, also known as the Bikini Killer,…

Asian donors put faith in Sunak ahead of elections

BRITISH Asian donors made significant contributions to political parties in what is shaping up to be the highest-spending general election contest expected to be held later this year. Political parties accepted £93 million in donations last year, nearly double the £52m from the previous year, according to the Electoral Commission…

Sharp drop in recruitment of women, ethnic minorities in fire…

THERE was a sharp drop in the recruitment of women and ethnic minorities by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) last year, new data released last Thursday (14) revealed. In 2023, just 11 per cent of new recruits were female and only 13 per cent from black, Asian and under-represented communities,…

New definition of extremism high on emotions, low on solutions:…

THE former chancellor and home secretary, Sir Sajid Javid, said while the UK was the most successful multiracial democracy in the world, politicians were “adding fuel to the fire” of ongoing social unrest.  Sir Sajid said the government’s new definition of extremism led to a debate “high on emotions, low…

A transformative guide to navigating social anxiety

SOCIAL anxiety can be a choppy inner sea to navigate. The forthcoming book is a simple guide that enables readers to calm their inner turmoil and navigate those turbulent waves. This easily accessible workbook, filled with practical tools, compassionate guidance and motivation, is like a transformative journey of self-discovery. Instead…

Ireland prime minister Varadkar resigns

LEO VARADKAR said on Wednesday (20) he would step down as Ireland's prime minister and the leader of the governing Fine Gael party, in a surprise move, for "personal and political" reasons. Varadkar's departure as head of the three-party coalition does not automatically trigger a general election. He said he…

My creative process is an ongoing jam session with life:…

At just 19 years old, indie pop singer-songwriter Ridi Oswal captivates audiences with her unique blend of Indian heritage and Western influences, showcased in hits like Merry Go Round and Happier, garnering over 65,000 monthly listeners on platforms like Spotify, while her latest single, Guilty Feet, is a vibrant testament…

My film on Savarkar is anti-propaganda: Randeep Hooda

RANDEEP HOODA’S willingness to take on any acting challenge has allowed him to portray a wide range of captivating roles throughout his career. This week, the acclaimed Indian actor adds another intriguing character to his repertoire with the release of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. The period epic sees Hooda take on…

Lucy Frazer urges sports to review women’s inclusion policies

SPORTS SECRETARY Lucy Frazer has said all sporting bodies in the country should look carefully at their rules on transgender athletes competing in women's sports to ensure fairness. Global governing bodies for cricket, cycling, athletics, swimming and chess have tightened their participation rules for transgender players in elite women's competitions…

Humera Malik: Bridging cultures with books

BORN and raised in England, Humera Malik admired the power of words from an early age. The US-based elementary school teacher has turned that love for reading into a writing passion that has led to her writing a newly published children’s book, The Great Henna Party. The beautifully illustrated book,…

Charithra Chandran sparkles in first solo West End play

THERE was a sense of occasion at the Garrick Theatre in London last Sunday (17) when Charithra Chandran made her West End debut in a solo show, Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon. You had the feeling many young Asians had been drawn by the show’s lead, billed as “Bridgerton’s Charithra…

Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, AR Rahman to perform at IPL…

Cricket's 'Super Bowl' Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to return this week with a blockbuster opening clash between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a South Indian derby at their home arena--MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday. Making it more special actors Akshay Kumar,…

Photo agency flags second photograph of royal family as digitally…

A second photograph featuring members of the royal family has come under scrutiny after being flagged by a global picture agency for being "digitally enhanced at source." This revelation follows the recent controversy surrounding an image of the Princess of Wales released for Mother’s Day, which prompted several picture agencies…

Student of the Year heroes have failed

IT MAY have been a massively overrated film that didn’t clock up the expected blockbuster numbers at the box office, but the 2012 film, Student of the Year, was a solid launch pad for its three debut stars. While Alia Bhatt has gone on to become the most successful young…

India’s water crisis worsens as reservoir levels slide

India's main reservoirs have hit their lowest March levels in five years, government data showed, indicating a possible squeeze on drinking water and power availability this summer in most parts of the country. In major centres such as India's 'Silicon Valley' Bengaluru, home to IT majors like Google, Infosys, and…

10 Indian cities screening films showcasing LGBTQIA+ narratives

Five short films from India, Spain, the Philippines, the UK, and the US showcasing LGBTQIA+ narratives that resonate with resilience and authenticity are being screened in 10 cities across India. British Council in partnership with British BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival launched the 10th edition of the 'Five Films…

Priyanka and Nick offer prayers at Ayodhya’s Ram temple with…

Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas and her husband, American singer Nick Jonas, on Wednesday offered prayers at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The couple was accompanied by their two-year-old daughter, Malti Marie Jonas. Priyanka, who was dressed in a yellow sari, and Nick, wearing a kurta set, were photographed at the…

French academic’s book examines Gujarat’s role in Modi’s political strategy

NOW that it has been announced that the Indian general election will be held between April 19 and June 1, many books and articles both for and against Narendra Modi will be written about the country’s prime minister. Firmly in the latter category is Christophe Jaffrelot’s Gujarat Under Modi: Laboratory…

How ‘global curiosity’ can make Indian books part of the…

THE world needs books from India because they reflect the spiritual values of Indian culture and civilisation.   “Books are important for mental health,” said Yuvraj Malik, director of the National Book Trust (NBT) of India, which took a pavilion for the first time at the 2024 London Book Fair.…

Employers told to avoid ineffective diversity initiatives

Most employers in the UK are taking equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives without an evidence base, and some of their interventions are proving to be even counterproductive, according to a government report. The independent Inclusion at Work Panel, appointed by the Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch, reviewed how…

Top 25 comedy heroes from India

WHILE it’s true that stand-up comedy first gained prominence in western culture, India’s comedy scene has emerged as one of the fastest-growing in the past decade. In recent years, there has been an influx of top talents who have presented humour in a unique way and risen to prominence with…

Learning from each other across generations

AT THE END of January, I took a trip to Amsterdam with my niece. It was her 18th birthday in December and being the cool aunt I am, I wanted to give her a European birthday treat. One thing I learned from her during the trip and told her as…

Geeta Pendse: ‘Words can prompt new ways of thinking’

THE TV presenter and journalist, Geeta Pendse, chaired the opening sessions of the London Book Fair (LBF) which analysed the issue of diversity in the publishing world. The LBF – held over three days last week at Kensington Olympia – also looked at what might constitute enjoyable literature for ethnic…

Audi India plans local assembly of EVs: Balbir Singh Dhillon

AUTOMAKER Audi India is looking to commence local assembly of electric vehicles, a move which would help it roll out models at an affordable price helping expand its customer base in the country. The automaker currently imports its entire EV range into the country. It, however, assembles petrol models like…

Adaa Khan: Making a strong style statement

THOSE who follow Adaa Khan on social media or have seen her eye-catching photoshoots and striking red carpet appearances know how superbly stylish she is. The celebrated Indian actress has an undeniable flair for fashion and consistently unveils stunning looks that set style goals. Eastern Eye caught up with the…

Pakistan’s central bank keeps interest rate steady

PAKISTAN’S central bank, on Monday (18), held its key interest rate at 22 per cent for a sixth straight policy meeting as inflation risks continued to loom.  The decision was in line with the expectations of a majority of analysts, although most are also expecting rate cuts from the second…

‘Laapataa Ladies’ review: Social satire of swapped brides is a…

THE social satire premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last year before hitting cinemas earlier this month, with an upcoming streaming site release in the weeks ahead. The 2001-set story revolves around a married couple, Deepak and Phool, boarding a train to their village, with the newly married bride’s…

IPL 2024: Kohli, Pant in spotlight

VIRAT KOHLI and Rishabh Pant will be under scrutiny on their return to action as the Indian Premier League begins on Friday (22), with the T20 World Cup hot on its heels. The 17th edition of the world's richest cricket league is expected to end close to the June 1…

Intermittent fasting can lead to cardiovascular diseases, says study

Fatty foods, sugars, and junk food, seem very unhealthy, but did you know, what is more, unhealthy than this? Intermittent fasting. Yes, you read that right! A recent study, presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention conference, has cast doubt on the purported health benefits of intermittent fasting,…

‘Shaitaan’ review: Hindi remake of supernatural drama disappoints

THE official remake of the acclaimed 2023 Gujarati film, Vash, was released in cinemas recently and will be available on a streaming site soon. A couple with their two children go away for a holiday and encounter a stranger named Vanraj along the way. Vanraj turns up at the secluded…

February inflation eases to 3.4 per cent; lowest in 2.5…

Britain's annual inflation rate fell more than expected in February, official data showed Wednesday, fuelling speculation that the Bank of England may cut interest rates in coming months. Inflation reached 3.4 per cent last month - the lowest level since September 2021 - after hitting 4.0 per cent in January,…

Sunak launches measures to help small businesses in weak economy

PRIME MINISTER Rishi Sunak on Monday (18) launched measures to help small businesses navigate the weak economy, as he seeks to boost his standing before this year’s general election. Sunak unveiled a £60 million investment aimed at cutting red tape and generating 20,000 apprenticeships.   “This government is sticking to the…

Karan Johar, Farhan Akhtar collaborate with Prime Video on diverse…

Filmmakers Karan Johar and Farhan Akhtar on Tuesday announced a host of projects, including shows such as Ananya Pandey-starrer Call Me Bae and Mirzapur 3, which will debut on streaming service Prime Video this year. At the streamer's slate announcement event Prime Video Presents, Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment announced three original…

Dhanush releases first poster of Ilaiyaraaja biopic

National Award winner Dhanush on Wednesday unveiled the first poster of his upcoming movie based on the life of legendary music composer Ilaiyaraaja. Titled Ilaiyaraaja, the movie will be directed by Arun Matheswaran, who recently helmed Dhanush's latest release, Captain Miller. Dhanush shared the poster of the film on his…

Australia halt Afghanistan T20 series over women’s rights

AUSTRALIA on Tuesday (19) decided to shelve the T20 men’s cricket series against Afghanistan. Cricket Australia (CA) said it had received advice “that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan are getting worse,” and had postponed the three-match series slated for August at a neutral venue. The sport has surged…

Diversity, inclusion central to company, says JTI UK

DIVERSITY and inclusion “are central” to Japan Tobacco International (JTI), an organisation that cares about its people and is mindful about creating a workplace where everyone is encouraged to be their best self, a senior executive has said.  In a recent chat with Eastern Eye, Ruth Forbes, inclusion and office…

Imran Khan pushes for treason proceedings over ‘election theft’

PAKISTAN’S former prime minister, Imran Khan, has demanded high treason proceedings against officials whom he alleges stole his party’s mandate in the February general elections, enabling the rival Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) to form a coalition government.   Khan’s remarks came as he addressed…

AFC asks for evidence on corruption charges

THE Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has asked the AIFF’s [All India Football Federation] ousted legal head, Nilanjan Bhattacharjee, to submit evidence for allegations of corruption he has levelled against national federation head Kalyan Chaubey, calling it a serious matter. The AIFF president Chaubey, on March 6, served a legal notice…

Indian shuttler Sen’s impressive run cut short at All England…

ANOTHER impressive week ended with a semi-final finish for star shuttler Lakshya Sen, who narrowly lost a three-game battle against Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie at the All England Championships in Birmingham last Saturday (16), prolonging India’s wait for the coveted trophy. In a game of fine margins, the 22-year-old, who had…

Afghan forces attack Pakistan military outposts in retaliation to airstrikes

EIGHT civilians were killed on Monday (18) in “reckless” airstrikes by Pakistan’s military in the border regions of Afghanistan, prompting Afghan forces to retaliate against Pakistani military outposts, Taliban officials said.  Border tensions between the two countries have steadily escalated since the Taliban government seized power in 2021, with Islamabad…

Bangladesh win Sri Lanka ODI series

RISHAD HOSSAIN played an attacking innings of 48 after substitute Tanzid Hasan Tamim hit 84 off 81 balls on Monday (18), steering Bangladesh to a fourwicket win and a 2-1 ODI series victory over Sri Lanka. Set a modest target after Janith Liyanage’s unbeaten 101 guided Sri Lanka to 235…

Watchdog: Relocating asylum seekers won’t cut costs

THE government's decision to reduce the use of hotels to house asylum seekers by moving them to sites such as military bases will end up costing taxpayers more money, parliament's spending watchdog said on Wednesday (20). Thousands of asylum seekers arrive on England's southern coast in small, inflatable boats every…

Rajamouli attends ‘RRR’ special screening in Japan, receives gift from…

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, who attended a special screening of his blockbuster film RRR in Japan, says he is grateful for the love the audience continues to shower on the movie even after almost two years of its release. According to Japanese film distribution outlet Twin Company, the RRR screenings were…

Prime Video teases new seasons of ‘Pataal Lok’, ‘Mirzapur’ and…

Streaming service Prime Video on Tuesday teased new seasons of its critically acclaimed series such as Pataal Lok 2, Mirzapur, and Panchayat. The three shows, along with Bandish Bandits and the Tamil series Suzhal - The Vortex, are the five projects that will return to the streamer's platform in 2024,…

Priyanka Chopra unveils new production venture ‘Women of My Billion’

Actress-producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas on Tuesday introduced Women of My Billion, an upcoming documentary narrating the true story of a woman’s journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to meet women who have faced violence. Chopra Jonas and production banner Purple Pebble Pictures have produced the movie, which will be released on…

Prime Video unveils 2024 India slate

Prime Video today unveiled its most ambitious and diverse content slate to date in India at its second Prime Video Presents India showcase, with close to 70 series and movies, with most of them premiering on the service over the next 2 years. With 40 Original series and movies, and…

London population hits record high amid migration surge

LONDON's population has reached a new peak driven by a surge in migration, reversing the trend of people leaving the city during the Covid-19 pandemic, The Telegraph reported. According to recent research from the Centre for Cities think tank, the capital's population has likely surpassed its pre-pandemic level of 10.1…

Tech firms hiring foreign talent will have to pay more

To curb immigration and encourage employers to invest in Britain's existing workforce, the home office has announced that tech firms hiring foreign-born software engineers will have to pay £51,000 a year, The Times reports. The new pay rate threshold is 37 per cent higher than the previous one and will…

Pure Perfection: Embrace the spirit of Ramadan in white

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate a time of reflection, spiritual growth, and communal celebration. Alongside the spiritual significance, Ramadan also offers a platform for individuals to express their cultural heritage and personal style through fashion. This year, fashion enthusiasts are embracing a…

Free online NHS support can help you live well with…

DR CHIRAG BAKHAI is a GP in Luton, as well as a primary care advisor to the NHS Diabetes programme. He says: “If you’re living with type 2 diabetes, it’s important to know what you can do to stay well and avoid potential complications. “The Healthy Living programme offers evidence-based…

Pharma firm former official sentenced for falsifying data

A Harrow-based pharmaceutical company and its former director were sentenced by a London court after pleading guilty to two charges of falsifying data regarding the shelf life of a medicine for treating hypothyroidism. Southwark Crown Court, London sentenced Kamlesh Vaghjiani, former director of Kappin Ltd, to eight and seven months…

Hate crime charges drop in London over last five years,…

FEWER racist and religious hate crimes in London have led to criminal charges over the past five years, new data has revealed. The percentage of cases resulting in a charge for hate crime has dropped by 16 per cent from 2,037 to 1,691 over the last five years in the…

Sham trading: FCA fines trader £5.95 m

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has fined trader Nailesh Teraiya £5.95 million and barred him from operating in the market for his role in a sham trading scheme that obtained fake refunds of €91.2 million from the Danish tax authority, SKAT. The regulator found that Teraiya's firm Indigo Global Partners…

Aaron Taylor-Johnson likely to be next James Bond

Aaron Taylor-Johnson is reportedly in talks to become the next actor to portray the iconic character James Bond. The 33-year-old British star, known for his roles in Kick-Ass and Nowhere Boy, has been rumoured for the role since Daniel Craig's departure from the franchise. According to reports, Eon Productions, responsible…

Aseefa Bhutto enters politics; to contest by-poll in Sindh

Aseefa Bhutto, the youngest daughter of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and slain premier Benazir Bhutto, has filed her candidacy for the by-poll at a National Assembly seat in Sindh Province vacated by her father. Aseefa, 31, has been active in politics for some time but was kept away from…

UK-India trade talks on hold until after election

THE latest round of trade talks between Britain and India has concluded without a deal, with a British official saying an agreement could not be finalised ahead of the upcoming Indian elections. The two countries have held stop-start talks over a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) for two years and both…

MPs reject Rwanda asylum law amendments

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's contentious bill to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda moved closer to becoming law after his government rejected all the proposed changes from the upper house of parliament. Under the safety of Rwanda (asylum and immigration) bill, asylum seekers who arrive in England by boats would…

Indian student’s death in US: Police rule out foul play

AN Indian student died in Boston, US, and initial investigation has ruled out any foul play, officials said on Monday (18). “Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of Abhijeeth Paruchuru, an Indian student in Boston,” the Consulate General of India in New York said in a post on…

India top court pulls up yoga guru Baba Ramdev over…

The supreme court on Tuesday (19) directed the personal appearance of yoga guru Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved managing director Acharya Balkrishna over misleading advertisements and for failing to respond to a contempt notice. A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah noted that Patanjali did not file a…

‘Nye’ review: Play tackles complexities of the man who created…

THE NHS, said the former chancellor Nigel Lawson, is the closest thing the English have to a religion. So it follows that its creator would be deified as a God in certain circles. Nye, playing at the National Theatre until 11th May, tackles the complexities of one of the great…

I believed poets need to drink, it destroyed my marriage:…

Renowned poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar recently shared candid insights into his first marriage with actress Honey Irani, shedding light on the challenges they faced, particularly his battle with alcoholism. The couple, who were married for 11 years before parting ways in 1985, endured tumultuous times exacerbated by Akhtar's addiction.…

Sunak’s father-in-law gifts grandson Infosys shares worth £23m

THE father-in-law of prime minister Rishi Sunak and the co-founder of Indian IT giant Infosys, NR Narayana Murthy, has gifted 1.5 million shares of the company, valued at £23 million, to his grandson, reports said. According to stock exchange data released on Monday (18), Murthy's gift to Ekagrah Rohan Murty…

Tata Steel to shut Port Talbot coke ovens

TATA STEEL UK, owned by India-based Tata Group, announced the closure of the coke ovens at its Port Talbot steel plant in south Wales, with operations ceasing this week, marking an earlier shutdown than originally planned. The company on Monday (18) said that the plant is “significantly deteriorating operational stability”.…

Air quality: Bangladesh, Pakistan and India rank lowest once again

PAKISTAN remained one of the world's three smoggiest countries in 2023, as Bangladesh and India replaced Chad and Iran, with particulate matter about 15 times the level recommended by the World Health Organization, data published on Tuesday (19) showed. Average concentrations of PM2.5 - small airborne particles that damage the…

Unveiling the future of online casinos: trends and innovations

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving online casino industry, staying ahead of technological trends is crucial for operators aiming to attract and maintain a strong player base. One innovative approach that has proven effective is the introduction of incentives like the Richard casino no deposit bonus. This strategy not only…

Conservatives are ‘institutionally Islamophobic’: Yousaf

Scotland's first minister Humza Yousaf hit out at the Conservative Party for being "institutionally Islamophobic", according to media reports. He said this in reaction to the comments reportedly made by Conservative party donor Frank Hester (57) about Labour MP Diane Abbott. According to The Guardian newspaper, Hester had reportedly said…

Nitin Sawhney, Arooj Aftab part of Glastonbury Festival lineup

Nitin Sawhney and Arooj Aftab are among the leading South Asian talents at this year’s Glastonbury Music Festival. The popular British festival returns to Somerset’s Worthy Farm from June 26-30. Nitin, an award-winning musician, producer, and composer, will be one of the performers for the West Holts Stage. Singer-songwriter, producer,…

If Labour has the power to delay the Rwanda plan,…

THE government’s controversial Safety of Rwanda Bill returns to the House of Commons this week, where MPs will debate amendments proposed by the Lords. Facing the conundrum of what to do with the Bill – which overrules the UK Supreme Court to deem Rwanda a safe place to which asylum seekers…

In this Indian village famous for Pattachitra, everyone is an…

Nestled just 15 kilometres away from the bustling city of Puri in Odisha, India, lies the quaint village of Raghurajpur. Here, every home is a studio and every villager an artist. Adorned with colourful murals, this village is a living museum of art, where the ancient craft of Pattachitra flourishes.…

‘Trying to still be most risk-taking actor’: Ayushmann Khurrana

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana opened up about how he always wanted to be a risk-taking actor to make the country proud. Ayushmann made his Bollywood debut with Vicky Donor (2012), a film set against the background of sperm donation and infertility, themes that are often seen as taboos in Indian society.…

Zayn Malik opens up about life with daughter Khai away…

Zayn Malik has opened up about his life with daughter Khai away from the limelight. The former One Direction member is spending much of his time on his farm in Pennsylvania. Giving him company is his 3-year-old daughter Khai with supermodel Gigi Hadid. On a 14 March episode of Hot…

Sadiq Khan pledges 40,000 council homes if re-elected

London mayor Sadiq Khan launched the campaign for his third term on Monday by pledging to double his council homes target to 40,000 in six years to ease London's housing woes, according to media reports Khan had earlier set himself a target of 23,000 homes between 2018 and 2024 which…

FarmERP: Making agriculture climate-smart

The advent of new age technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, coupled with drones and sensors are rapidly transforming the agriculture sector in India and around the world. Farmers and agri-business companies using these technologies have a much greater insight and control over their yields and profitability, and…

Britain needs to be more socially cohesive: Sajid Javid

Former Cabinet minister and Conservative party MP Sir Sajid Javid said he still believes the UK is the most successful multiracial democracy in the world, but lamented that it is not at ease with itself. In a signed article in The Times, the Bromsgrove MP said the government’s new definition…

Tories attack Yousaf for not declaring parents’ assets

Scotland's Conservatives have accused first minister Humza Yousaf of lacking transparency in his register of interests entry, where there is no mention of his parent's property empire, according to media reports. The latest list was published during the week with ministers required to set out potential conflicts of interest between…

Former Shaktimaan actor upset over Ranveer Singh’s casting

Actor Mukesh Khanna, who played the iconic role of Shaktimaan in the 1990s serial, said he is not in favour of Ranveer Singh playing the popular superhero as the actor has a certain image. According to media reports, Singh was recently roped in to play Shaktimaan in the film set…

Nick Jonas joins Priyanka Chopra, daughter Malti Marie in Mumbai…

Popstar Nick Jonas touched down in Mumbai in the early hours of Monday. He made a stylish entry in an all-white look at the Mumbai airport. He sported a white shirt that he paired with matching pants and sneakers. This is Nick's second visit to India this year. He and…

‘The Iceman’ Wim Hof’s cold exposure therapy has benefits: Study

A recent study has shed light on the potential benefits of the Wim Hof method, popularised by Dutch athlete Wim Hof, also known as "The Iceman." This method, which involves a combination of deliberate hyperventilation and exposure to cold, has garnered attention for its purported physical and mental advantages. However,…

Indian electoral bonds: Bank told to disclose all details

India's Supreme Court ordered the State Bank of India (SBI) on Monday to submit all the details of electoral bonds issued under an opaque political funding system, just a month before general elections. SBI was the sole bank authorised to sell and redeem electoral bonds that was introduced in 2017…

New mural near Finsbury Park: Is Banksy back?

A new mural that mysteriously appeared overnight on the side of a building near Finsbury Park in London has sparked speculation that it may be the work of the elusive street artist Banksy. The artwork features a mass of green paint behind a trimmed-back mature tree, creating the illusion of…

Bangalore win maiden Women’s Premier League title

ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE grabbed their first Women's Premier League (WPL) title by restricting Delhi Capitals to 113 runs. They sealed an eight-wicket victory with just three balls left in New Delhi on Sunday (17). Aggressive knocks from Ellyse Perry and Sophie Devine buoyed Bangalore at the right moment to seal…

Oscar-winner MM Keeravani collaborates with Anupam Kher

Veteran actor Anupam Kher's upcoming directorial Tanvi The Great will have music by Oscar-winning music director MM Keeravani. On Monday, Kher took to Instagram and shared this update. "ALL DREAMS COME TRUE: Proud to announce that one of the finest music composers of our times, Oscar and Golden Globe winner…

Anurag Kashyap announces Malayalam film debut as actor

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is set to make his Malayalam film debut as an actor with director Aashiq Abu's upcoming movie Rifle Club. Kashyap, a proponent of contemporary Malayalam cinema, shared the update on his Instagram page on Saturday. "Announcing my first Malayalam film as an actor with @aashiqabu. Looking forward…

Ed Sheeran captivates audience at Mumbai concert

Thousands gathered to catch a glimpse of Ed Sheeran, who set the stage on fire with his electrifying concert in Mumbai, which also saw the British music sensation perform with Indian artists Diljit Dosanjh and Armaan Malik. Sheeran, who arrived in India on March 12 as part of the Indian…

British Indian Post Office scandal victim’s son seeks compensation

THE son of a British Indian Post Office scandal victim has demanded compensation for the impact his father's wrongful convictions and financial ruin had on his life. Varchas Patel's father, Vipin, faced wrongful prosecution for discrepancies exceeding £75,000 at his branch between 2010 and 2011. Now, Varchas, along with other…

International Yoga Festival concludes at Parmarth Niketan

THE week-long International Yoga Festival at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, India, concluded on Friday (15). As many as 1,500 international guests, including saints, spiritual masters, yogacharyas, artists, and musicians from over 75 countries have participated in the event. The festival, under the guidance of Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati, president…

Vaughan Gething becomes first black leader of Wales

VAUGHAN GETHING won the Welsh Labour party leadership contest on Saturday (16), marking a historic moment as he is set to become the first black leader of the country's semi-autonomous government. Gething, 50, will succeed Mark Drakeford, 69, who announced in December that he was stepping down. The new leader…

India’s general election: All you need to know

INDIA's marathon six-week election will begin on April 19 with nearly a billion people across the world's biggest democracy eligible to cast their votes. Here are the details about how the poll is conducted and what is likely to happen: How do people vote? All Indian citizens aged 18 and…

Indian Navy foils Somali pirate attack; rescues crew

INDIA's navy recaptured a ship from Somali pirates off the Indian coast Saturday (16), the military said, rescuing the crew and ending a three-month takeover of the Maltese-flagged bulk carrier MV Ruen. The December hijacking of the ship was the first time since 2017 that any cargo vessel had been…

Charithra Chandran: I see myself as a failure

Charithra Chandran, who rose to fame with the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, says she is still “really hard” on herself and sees herself “as a failure”. “I feel like I am really hard on myself. I see myself as a failure and I am constantly failing and trying to dig…

Trailer for Kareena, Tabu, and Kriti’s ‘Crew’ out

The trailer for Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon’s forthcoming film Crew is out. Helmed by Rajesh A Krishnan, the film features the trio as air hostesses who are fed up with unpaid dues, and dead-end jobs. But one day, they discovered kilos of gold bars strapped on a…

Sobhita Dhulipala on ‘Monkey Man’: Dream to be part of…

Actress Sobhita Dhulipala says she is super excited to make her Hollywood debut with Monkey Man, in which she features alongside Lion star Dev Patel. The Night Manager actor talked about the much-awaited movie on the sidelines of the Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI here. "It’s my first time working…

Priyanka Chopra to narrate Disneynature’s documentary film ‘Tiger’

Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas will serve as the narrator of the upcoming documentary film Tiger for Disney-owned studio Disneynature. Described as a compelling story that lifts the veil on the planet’s most revered and charismatic animal, the film will start streaming on Disney+ Hotstar on Earth Day on April 22.…

India to hold polls from April 19 in seven phases

India will begin voting in seven phases starting April 19 to elect a new parliament, and the results will be announced on June 4. Chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar said on Saturday the other phases will be on April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June…

Slowed speech potential indicator of cognitive decline, says study

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, involved 125 healthy adults spanning ages 18 to 90. Participants were tasked with describing a scene in detail, with recordings of their descriptions analysed using artificial intelligence (AI) software to assess speech speed, pause duration, and vocabulary diversity. While difficulty…

India, Pakistan spar at UN over Ayodhya

INDIA has slammed Pakistan after Islamabad's envoy at the United Nations made references to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Citizenship Amendment Act at the general assembly. Pakistan's Ambassador Munir Akram raised these issues during the plenary meeting on Friday while introducing the resolution ‘Measures to combat Islamophobia', in…

Amitabh Bachchan dismisses reports of ill health as fake news

Big B has categorically denied reports of his ill health, putting an end to swirling rumours and speculation. In a video circulating on social media, Bachchan can be seen exiting a stadium, where a concerned fan inquires about his well-being. Bachchan responds by gesturing that everything is fine and then…

British Wildlife Photography Awards 2024 winners announced

The British Wildlife Photography Awards for 2024 showcase an array of captivating images capturing the essence of Britain's wildlife and habitats. With over 14,000 submissions, the winning photographs depict everything from urban wildlife to mesmerising courtship rituals and microscopic organisms, highlighting the diverse tapestry of life in the region. [caption…

One in three black women don’t expect to retire

Black and Asian women are facing significant challenges throughout their financial journey, from employment opportunities to retirement savings, says a study by pension provider Scottish Widows. In a research conducted online by YouGov, it was found that nearly one in three black women (30 per cent) are most likely to…

Family dies in ‘suspicious’ fire in Canada

AN Indian-origin couple and their teenage daughter died in a "suspicious" fire that destroyed their home in Canada's Ontario province, according to police. A fire engulfed a home at the Big Sky Way and Van Kirk Drive area of Brampton on March 7, Peel Police said on Friday (15). After…

Trade talks on hold as India goes to polls

THE fourteenth round of trade talks between Britain and India concluded on Friday (15) without a deal, while India heads to a general election. The Election Commission of India is expected to announce the general election schedule on Saturday. Formal talks will not take place during India’s pre-election period. The…

Will AI Change the Way We Perceive History?

Google's Gemini is in hot water because of a perceived bias in favor of people of color. While there's nothing wrong with artificial intelligence showing good role models in a range of colors, pundits slammed the service for generating historically inaccurate pictures. Examples cited include a female pope and dark-skinned Vikings.…

Nikhil Rathi defends FCA’s plans for retail customer protection

THE chief of Britain's financial watchdog has defended its plans for retail customer protection via its Consumer Duty rules, adding that he is aware of the impact of regulation on banking business models and margins. Financial Conduct Authority CEO, Nikhil Rathi, added that the regulator "would not stand in the…

Khan unveils £100m fund to revive stalled housing projects

London mayor Sadiq Khan has unveiled a £100m Housing Kickstart Fund that will provide grants to housing firms to convert market-rate homes stalled due to economic downturn into affordable homes. The new money will be made available from recycled capital grant funding, which is money returned to the Greater London…

Victoria Beckham swears by apple cider vinegar to help her…

A recent study seemed to support Beckham's claim, suggesting that apple cider vinegar could indeed help with weight loss. The study found that people who drank diluted apple cider vinegar daily lost around 6 kilograms in 12 weeks, compared to less than 1 kilogram of weight loss in the placebo…

‘It was like a fairytale in real life,’ says Indian…

In 2009, Slumdog Millionaire was not the only film that made all Indians proud by winning eight trophies at the 81st Academy Awards ceremony, the winner in the documentary (short) category Smile Pinki, which depicted the story of a five-year-old Indian schoolgirl Pinki Sonkar who received corrective surgery for cleft…

Three Indians among winners of Diana Award

A New Delhi-based innovator whose low-cost electric invention helps overcome power cuts, a mental health campaigner from Haryana and a student from Dubai who helps to empower girls across the developing world are the Indian winners of the Diana Legacy Awards this year. Uday Bhatia, founder of Uday Electric, Manasi…

Super-thin semiconductor fibres make fabrics wearable electronics

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed super-thin semiconductor fibres that can be woven into fabrics, making them smart wearable electronics. Making these semiconductor fibres work well requires them to be flexible and without any flaws, so they can send signals reliably. However, the usual ways of…

New government should ensure stable economic growth, says John Lewis…

John Lewis Partnership chief executive Nish Kankiwala wants the next government in the UK to provide a stable environment for economic growth and restore consumers confidence. Kankiwala felt the political and economic turbulence of recent years has damaged consumer confidence and families have been struggling with rising inflation. He said…

Nina Wadia to lead ‘Now That’s What I Call A…

Nina Wadia is set to star in the world premiere of NOW That’s What I Call A Musical, a new British musical featuring iconic hits from the NOW music brand. Directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, the show will celebrate 40 years of NOW music with chart-topping hits and…

Zubin Varla, Pyiyanga Burford among nominees at Olivier Awards 2024

The UK’s most important and prestigious theatre awards, the Olivier Awards, have announced its nominees with Zubin Varla and Pyiyanga Burford bagging nominations for top honours. While Varna has been nominated as Best Actor in a Supporting Role for A Little Life, Burford has been nominated as Best Actress in…

Menstrual health literacy is alarmingly low, says study

Research conducted by biologist Deena Emera where she talks about the menstrual cycle and how many people including medical professionals are not aware of menstruation. Common misconceptions prevail, such as the belief that periods serve to "cleanse the womb" or "prepare for pregnancy." However, these notions are not only inaccurate…

Vodafone sells Italian unit to Swisscom

British mobile phone operator Vodafone said Friday it has agreed to sell its Italian unit to Swisscom for eight billion euros (£6.83 billion) in cash, completing efforts to overhaul its European operations. Vodafone has been on a cost-cutting campaign that has included layoffs and the offloading of divisions abroad. The…

Transgenders exhibit grace during fashion show in Surat

A unique fashion show was organised in Surat for the transgender community. A total of 25 transgender people participated in the ramp walk. The purpose of the fashion show was to raise awareness of the transgender community and foster acceptance of them in society. The participants enthusiastically walked on the…

Aisha Desai wins Points of Light award for Ramadan Lights…

A London woman who started an initiative to design light installations to celebrate Ramadan has received prime minister Rishi Sunak’s daily Points of Light award this week. Aisha Desai received the award on Tuesday (12) for her Ramadan Lights UK initiative, which was inspired by her childhood joy of seeing…

India’s electoral bonds: Lakshmi Mittal among top buyers

Lakshmi Mittal, the UK-based executive chairman of multinational steel manufacturer ArcelorMittal, is among the prominent buyers of the recently scraped electoral bonds for making political donations in India. He bought Rs 350 million worth of bonds in his individual capacity. The Election Commission displayed the data on electoral bonds on…

Paramount Global selling stake in Viacom18

US film and television giant Paramount Global announced that it would sell its stake in Indian media venture Viacom18 to another Indian entertainment firm, Reliance. The $517 million deal would transfer Paramount's entire 13 per cent stake to Reliance, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, a US…

‘Squid Game’ actor gets eight-month suspended sentence for sexual misconduct

Squid Game actor O Yeong-su has been convicted of sexual misconduct in Seoul, South Korea, according to a local court statement released on Friday. The 79-year-old actor, who won a Golden Globe Award in 2022 for his role in the Netflix series, was charged with assaulting a woman in 2017.…

Kamala Harris makes historic abortion clinic visit

US vice president Kamala Harris toured an abortion clinic Thursday (14), highlighting the key election issue of reproductive rights in what is believed to be the first such visit by a president or vice president. "We have to be a nation that trusts women," the Democrat said as she met…

Amitabh Bachchan admitted to hospital in Mumbai

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has been hospitalised in Mumbai, according to a media report. The 81-year-old actor was moved to the Kokilaben Hospital in the early hours of Friday, March 15. He reportedly underwent an angioplasty on his leg. Another report said that ‘doctors at Kokilaben Hospital confirmed that Amitabh Bachchan…

The times when birthday girl Alia Bhatt won the hearts…

In the glamorous cosmos of Bollywood, where stars shine bright and dreams are woven into the fabric of reality, one name continues to radiate a distinct brilliance - Alia Bhatt, who turns 31 on Friday (15). With her magnetic presence on screen and off, she embodies the essence of contemporary…

Sony Pictures announces biopic on Madhubala

Filmmaker Jasmeet K Reen will be tackling an upcoming biographical drama movie based on the life and times of Indian cinema legend Madhubala, the makers announced on Friday. Sony Pictures International Productions announced the project on their official social media handles. "We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming film honoring the…

‘Yodha’ Review: A slick action thriller that makes the most…

After facing some delay, Dharma Productions’ much-awaited action thriller Yodha is finally out in cinemas. The film stars Shershaah fame Sidharth Malhotra in the lead role with Raashii Khanna and Disha Patani also featuring in prominent characters. Lieutenant commander Arun Katyal (Sidharth Malhotra) is part of a special task force…

Sunak rules out election in May

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday ruled out calling an election on May 2, hinting the country was on course for a late 2024 ballot. Mounting speculation at the Westminster had suggested Sunak could call the general election on the same day as local polls in early May. However,…

IMF slams Pakistan’s claim on achieving all financial targets

The IMF has expressed its displeasure with Pakistan's claim that it had achieved all the targets even before the global lender could complete its review. A team from the International Monetary Fund has reached Islamabad to hold talks before releasing the much-needed final $1.1 billion tranche of a $3 billion…

Aamir Khan turns 59, says he will continue to back…

Bollywood star Aamir Khan, who turned 59 on Thursday, said he will continue to back "beautiful" films like his latest production Laapataa Ladies. Laapataa Ladies is a comedy-drama directed by Kiran Rao which opened to critical acclaim upon its March 1 release and has earned over Rs 8 crore at…

Shah Rukh Khan teaches Ed Sheeran his signature pose

With arms wide open and a dimpled smile flashing brightly, superstar Shah Rukh Khan has been leaving the audience in awe with his iconic signature pose for over three decades now. From fans to members of showbiz, people never leave a chance to imitate his romantic pose especially when they…

John Lewis goes back to basics to turn profitable

When Nish Kankiwala joined John Lewis Partnership, which also owns Waitrose, a year ago his mandate was to make the company return to profitability after a string of loss-making years, The Telegraph reports. The new CEO, a Hovis and Burger King veteran, outlined his strategy to his employees as going…

Sharp fall in women and minority recruits to London Fire…

THERE was a sharp drop in the recruitment of women and ethnic minorities by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) last year, new data released on Thursday (14) revealed, despite calls for greater diversity within the service. In 2023, just 11 per cent of new recruits were female and only 13…

‘I wish you ample doses of pain and suffering,’ Nvidia…

The definition of success and hard work can differ from person to person. Today's generation calls it 'hustle culture' but Nvidia CEO here has some other perspective for the students. Jensen Huang recently shared some interesting thoughts with students at Stanford University. He talked about something unexpected, the importance of…

Revolutionizing Transportation: Cars and Leasing Insights Unveiled

In the ever-evolving landscape of transportation, the dynamics of car ownership and leasing have undergone a significant transformation. With the rise of innovative leasing options and the emergence of cutting-edge models like the Cupra Formentor, the automotive industry is experiencing a revolution like never before. In this blog post, we…

Dressing for Success: How Clothing Influences Professional Perception

In today's fast-paced professional world, first impressions are more critical than ever. But what role does clothing play in shaping these perceptions? Can the right outfit truly make a difference in your career advancement? Let's unravel the threads of this sartorial puzzle and discover how dressing for success can influence…

Threefold increase in anti-Muslim incidents since Hamas attack, finds charity

ANTI-MUSLIM hate incidents have increased threefold in the UK since Hamas attack on Israel last year, a charity has found. Tell Mama has documented 2,247 anti-Muslim hate incidents, 1,001 offline and 1,246 online, in the four months between 7 October and 7 March. There were 721 incidents, 401 offline and…

‘Succession,’ ‘Beckham’ feature in BAFTA’s ‘Memorable TV Moment’ award nominees…

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has unveiled its nominees for the Memorable TV Moment Award, a category that celebrates standout scenes from television across all genres. Among the nominees are moments from acclaimed shows like Succession, Happy Valley, and Doctor Who, as well as unexpected highlights…

India appoints two election commissioners

Former bureaucrats Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar have been named as the new election commissioners by a panel chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a committee member and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said on Thursday. Addressing reporters at his residence soon after the meeting ended, Chowdhury said six…

NHS to stop prescription of puberty blockers following safety concerns

National Health Services (NHS) England has recently announced a significant shift in its approach to gender identity services, confirming that children will no longer be routinely prescribed puberty blockers. This decision follows a review that highlighted a lack of sufficient evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of these treatments. Previously,…

Property dispute: Woman sues mother, brother

A 43-year-old Asian-origin woman is suing her mother and brother over a property empire that she claims was built using her gold coins, according to media reports. Tajleena Islam, a mother of two, claims her parents used gold coins, family treasures, and jewellery in creating their £2.6 million London-based property…

Indian American manager of US football team jailed for fraud

A 31-year-old Indian American former financial manager of the American football team Jacksonville Jaguars has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in jail for stealing more than $22 million (£17.2m) and engaging in an illegal monetary transaction, according to court documents. Amit Patel was sentenced by US District Judge Henry L…

Glastonbury 2024 lineup: Dua Lipa, SZA, Coldplay top the big…

Get ready for a history-making Glastonbury this year! The festival lineup is finally here, and it's packed with big names and a record-breaking female presence. Dua Lipa, SZA, and Coldplay are topping the bill, with Shania Twain taking the coveted Legends slot on Sunday. This marks the first time Glastonbury…

Indian farmers rally in New Delhi demanding higher crop prices

THOUSANDS of farmers rode buses and trains from across India to gather on Thursday (14) at a rally in the capital, New Delhi, pressing a demand for higher guaranteed prices for their crops, as they faced down police barricades and tough security. The rally, days before general elections are expected…

Grieving Brook withdraws from IPL after grandmother’s death

ENGLAND batsman Harry Brook has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League following the death of his grandmother. Brook pulled out of England's recent Test tour in India in January, citing personal reasons. The 25-year-old has now revealed the reason was because his grandmother "was ill and didn't have long left".…

Obscure trust links India’s top firms with Modi’s election war…

Behind the doors of a small, nondescript office in the heart of New Delhi lies the headquarters of an electoral trust run by just two men that is the largest-known donor to India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), according to a Reuters review of public records. The Prudent Electoral Trust…

‘Polio Paul’ who lived in an iron lung, dies at…

Paul Alexander, a man whose life was inextricably linked to an iron lung due to polio, passed away at the age of 78. Diagnosed with the disease at just six years old in 1952, Alexander became paralysed from the neck down and reliant on the machine for breathing. Despite this…

New bill threatens TikTok ban unless China sells US arm

THE US House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a bill on Wednesday (13) that would give TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance about six months to divest the US assets of the short-video app, or face a ban, in the greatest threat to the app since the Trump administration. The bill passed 352-65…

New definition of extremism unveiled

The UK government on Thursday unveiled a new definition of extremism, as church leaders warned it risked disproportionately affecting Muslim communities. The new definition comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak warned earlier this month of a "shocking increase in extremist disruption and criminality" that risked the country tipping into "mob…

’12th Fail’, ‘Kohrra’ big winners at Critics’ Choice Awards 2024

Vikrant Massey-starrer 12th Fail and Sudip Sharma's crime series Kohrra bagged top honours at the sixth edition of the Critics' Choice Awards. The 2024 award ceremony was held on Tuesday in Mumbai, recognising the best in feature films, short films, and web series across languages and platforms from India. In the…

A Glimpse into the Rich History of the Kingdom of…

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand, formerly known as Siam, boasts a captivating history that spans over thousands of years. Its rich cultural heritage, intertwined with diverse influences, has shaped the Kingdom into the vibrant nation it is today. From ancient civilizations to powerful empires, Thailand's history is…

Starling Bank names Raman Bhatia as group CEO

LONDON-based digital lender, Starling Bank, has appointed Raman Bhatia as the new group CEO. Bhatia is currently the chief executive of OVO, a technology-enabled energy retailer in the UK. He is set to replace interim chief executive John Mountain in early summer, pending regulatory approval. Bhatia joined OVO in January…

Explore five delectable Ramadan dishes to make Iftar delicious

Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, community, and of course, delicious food! After a day of fasting, families and friends come together to break their fast with a special meal called Iftar. This year, why not embark on a global culinary adventure with these top 5 dishes, all perfect…

Race row: Sunak says Hester’s remorse should be accepted

PRIME MINISTER Rishi Sunak resisted growing calls Wednesday (13) for his Tory party to return millions of pounds to a major donor accused of making racist comments about a high-profile black lawmaker. Businessman Frank Hester, 57, is alleged to have said that Diane Abbott -- Britain's longest-serving black MP --…

Nice to see the confidence of young India, says coach…

INDIA coach Rahul Dravid last Saturday (9) praised his team’s rising young talent for confidently filling the gap left by senior players after their 4-1 win in a high-profile England series. Rohit Sharma’s men lost the opener but bounced back to clinch the five Test series after the fourth game,…

India’s Olympics shuttler Sai Praneeth quits professional badminton

WORLD Championships bronze medallist B Sai Praneeth on Monday (11) announced his retirement from international badminton, bringing down the curtain on a successful career during which he won the Singapore Open and also represented India at the Tokyo Olympics. The 31-year-old from Hyderabad decided to hang up his boots after…

How Ashwin spun his way to 500 Test scalps

SUNIL SUBRAMANIAM could never put his finger on why he failed to break into the Indian team despite being one of the country’s best leftarm spinners in the early 1990s. It bothered him, but the pain pales in comparison to the joy his most illustrious ward, Ravichandran Ashwin, brought to…

Number of ethnic minority CEOs has increased since 2022: Parker…

ETHNIC minorities continue to face barriers in the workplace, although a review has found an increase in representation in boardrooms, a leading diversity and inclusion expert has said. The Parker Review found that there are 12 ethnic minority CEOs in the FTSE 100, up from seven in 2022. Additionally, there…

Write England off at your peril, says Stokes after India…

ENGLAND captain Ben Stokes warned critics last Saturday (9) against any premature eulogies for his team, saying he will use the team’s 4-1 Test drubbing in India as inspiration for improvement. The visitors won the opener but lost the next four, including a final match thrashing by an innings and…

Review decision to revoke citizenship of Shamima Begum, say UN…

A GROUP of United Nations experts last Wednesday (6) urged Britain to repatriate Shamima Begum, who was stripped of her citizenship after leaving the country aged 15 to marry a Daesh (Islamic State group) fighter. Begum, now 24 and living in a refugee camp in northern Syria, lost an appeal…

Frankfurt and New York mark start of Ramadan

THE German city of Frankfurt switched on festive lights Sunday to celebrate the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, in what local media said was a nationwide first. A large sign reading “Happy Ramadan” and a display of lights in the shape of stars, lanterns and crescent moons were formally unveiled…

Sadhguru: The essence of devotion

DEVOTION is about making emotions so sweet, that the life experience becomes beautiful. But right now, what is passing off as devotion is just deception. People’s idea of devotion is, “God, I broke a coconut for you, what are you going to give me tomorrow?” This is not devotion; this…

‘Spooky, but helpful’, says woman who ‘spoke’ with her dead…

It may sound weird as you read further but a woman from Berlin, Germany has been talking to her deceased mother through the help of Artificial Intelligence. Sirine Malas experienced the profound loss of her mother to kidney failure in 2018. She was separated from her mother in 2015 when…

Indigo Giant: New play exposes colonial atrocities in undivided India

THE story of Bengal farmers rising up against British colonial rule in the subcontinent is revisited in a new play, Indigo Giant, currently touring the UK.   In the late 19th century, vast swathes of the Bengali countryside were given over to the cultivation of the indigo plant as the…

Neha Harsora gets set to shine in new series

NEHA HARSORA has been making a terrific mark on Indian television, particularly with her standout lead role in the hit serial, Raazz Mahal: Dakini Ka Rahasya. The talented young actress is following up that challenging fantasy drama with a lead role in the newly launched show, Udne Ki Asha, opposite…

US family begins battle against digital deception after public deepfake…

In a bold stance against the proliferation of deepfake nude imagery online, a mother and daughter duo in the United States have stepped into the forefront of a battle against digital deception. Their resolve stems from the distressing discovery that the daughter's fabricated images, along with those of other girls…

Yuva Rajkumar opens up about his first film ‘Yuva’

The Kannada film industry, known for its rich cinematic heritage, has seen the emergence of numerous talented actors over the years. Among these, the arrival of Yuva Rajkumar, the latest scion of the illustrious Rajkumar family, marks a significant milestone. With the weight of a legendary cinematic legacy on his…

Top 10 moments of Atma Ahir

BRITISH Asian music veteran Atma Ahir has been lighting up the bhangra scene ever since the early 1990s. His interesting career has seen him go from founding the award-winning act Geet The Mega Band to carving out a solo career. The singer recently released his catchy Punjabi track, Morni, written…

Shide Boss is back with a big swing

AFTER a short break, popular singer Shide Boss has made a welcome return with his new single, Swing My Way – Sohniye. The fabulous fusion track has received a positive response and adds to his impressive number of hit songs. With an action-packed year ahead, filled with more top tracks…

Powerful play portrays how NHS was nearly killed off before…

ANY Asian doctor, nurse, or indeed anyone who has worked for the National Health Service (NHS) should go and see Nye at the National Theatre. The play tells of the battles that the Welsh Labour politician, Aneurin (“Nye”) Bevan, had with Winston Churchill and the Tories, some people in his…

Study to explore ways to boost sales of healthy products…

A new study aiming to find workable solutions to boost the sales of healthy products in convenience stores across England has been launched. The study will also examine how the UK government’s new law to reduce impulse buying of products high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) is affecting shoppers…

Indian bank submits electoral bond details to top court

THE State Bank of India (SBI) told the Supreme Court on Wednesday (13) that 22,217 electoral bonds were purchased and 22,030 redeemed by political parties between April 1, 2019 and February 15 this year. In a compliance affidavit filed in the apex court, the SBI said as per the court's…

Surfing the tides, thrilling tale of the Severn Bore phenomenon

Surfers and kayakers eagerly anticipate an extraordinary natural spectacle known as the Severn Bore, transforming the typically serene Severn Estuary into a surfer's paradise. Contrary to its name, this event is anything but boring, captivating water enthusiasts from around the world. What is the Severn Bore? The Severn Bore is…

Shailesh Vara MP meets Indian student leaders

TORY MP Shailesh Vara has addressed the Indian National Students’ Association's (INSA) student leadership summit held at the House of Commons this week. The event held on Monday (11) was a forum for student leaders, student union representatives and guests to discuss and shape a positive future for Indian students…

Enduring cinematic legacy of Shashi Kapoor

LEGENDARY actor Shashi Kapoor left behind a remarkable body of work that ranged from commercial Hindi cinema entertainers to Englishlanguage projects that opened the doors for Bollywood stars in international projects. He broke creative ground, tackled taboos and added a new dimension to big screen entertainers. This resulted in a…

Why is India’s citizenship law contentious?

INDIA this week implemented the contentious 2019 Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), sparking sporadic protests and a war of words between prime minister Narendra Modi's government and opposition groups weeks before national elections are held. Here is a look at the law, its implications and the concerns surrounding it. What is…

Robert Pattinson’s ‘Batman Part II’ pushed to October 2026

Movie buffs have to wait a year longer to watch Robert Pattinson reprising his role in The Batman Part II as the makers have postponed the film's release date to October 2, 2026. Warner Bros has announced that Matt Reeves' The Batman Part II will be hitting theatres on October…

Obesity has significant impact on depression in older women: Study

A recent study by researchers from University College Cork's School of Public Health sheds light on the association between obesity and poorer mental health, particularly among women. The study, published in PLOS ONE, examined data from over 1,800 adults aged 46 to 73, focusing on BMI scores and mental health…

Showcasing the best of a diverse Britain at the GG2…

IT was a great privilege for Westcombe Group to have the opportunity to support and attend GG2’s Diversity and Leadership Awards on 5th March. It was so inspiring to hear from so many inspiring speakers and see so many leaders win recognition of their success. Amazing Awards The evening celebrated…

Ayushmann Khurrana meets Ed Sheeran

British singer Ed Sheeran is in India and ahead of his Mumbai gig, he met Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana on Tuesday. Interestingly, Ayushmann made Ed Sheeran taste his mother's homemade pinni. Talking about his meeting with the 'Perfect' hitmaker, Ayushmann said, "I have admired Ed Sheeran as an artiste for…

Daniel Sloss excited about his upcoming India tour

Comedian-actor Daniel Sloss is set to perform in India. From Delhi to Mumbai and Bengaluru, Daniel will be seen showcasing his comic talent among Indian fans in eight cities. His shows will be held between March 15 and March 24. Excited about the shows, Daniel said, "I am delighted to…

Economy returns to modest growth at start of 2024

Britain's economy returned to growth in January after entering a shallow recession in the second half of 2023, offering some relief to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ahead of an election expected this year, official data showed. Gross domestic product grew by 0.2 per cent month-on-month - boosted by a rebound…

GG2 Leadership & Diversity Awards 2024: ‘This evening recognises ethnic…

LEADING public and private sector organisations need to do more attract ethnic minorities to their boardrooms, Kalpesh Solanki, managing director at Asian Media Group (AMG), told attendees at the GG2 Leadership & Diversity Awards. In December 2023, only 44 per cent of the UK’s top 50 largest private companies had…

Kaushik Ray’s short film tells story of an immigrant mother…

KAUSHIK RAY has been drawn to creativity from a young age, a passion he finally pursued last year by quitting a full-time job as a lawyer to focus on filmmaking. This bold step led him to direct the short film, The Lime Green Shirt, which is being screened as part…

Channi Singh: Return of the godfather

BRITISH music hero Channi Singh has been entertaining audiences for nearly 50 years as a singer, songwriter and composer.  The frontman of the iconic bhangra group, Alaap, has achieved many milestones in his career, including countless hit songs, game-changing albums and pathbreaking collaborations with legends such as Asha Bhosle.  …

Sunak pays tribute as government moves to overturn Post Office…

PRIME MINISTER Rishi Sunak paid tribute to hundreds of Post Office branch managers, including several British Asians, as a new law to quash their wrongful convictions was introduced on Wednesday (13). Sunak had pledged action in the historic Post Office scandal involving a faulty accounting software named Horizon, which wrongly…

Modi praises ‘new Kashmir’ on first visit in five years

JAMMU AND KASHMIR has been transformed and integrated with the rest of India, prime minister Narendra Modi said last Thursday (7), crediting the change to his government’s decision to revoke its special status. Visiting the Kashmir Valley for the first time since 2019 – the year the status was revoked…

Aakash Odedra: Story of love and longing

BRITISH dance maestro Aakash Odedra consistently leads boundary-breaking projects and Mehek adds to his impressive repertoire. He has teamed up with Indian kathak legend Aditi Mangaldas in this magnificent dance drama that narrates the love story of an older woman and a younger man. The world-renowned performers will embark on…

Onir: Rebel with a human cause

A FEARLESS approach to filmmaking has endowed Onir with a remarkable body of work filled with stories from forgotten corners of society. He has overcome the challenges of being an openly gay writer, director and producer in India to deliver award-winning films such as My Brother…Nikhil, and I Am. His…

Trump, Biden clinch nominations for US presidential election

Joe Biden and rival Donald Trump each won enough delegates Tuesday to clinch their party nominations in the 2024 presidential race, networks projected, all but assuring a rematch and setting up one of the longest election campaigns in US history. The results in four statewide elections Tuesday, the latest in…

New scheme to pay failed asylum seekers to move to…

Failed asylum seekers will be offered up to £3,000 to move to Rwanda under a new voluntary scheme, The Times reports. The plan will be open to anyone whose asylum claim has been rejected by the UK. It is different from an existing voluntary returns scheme, where failed asylum seekers…

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan to Riz Ahmed, see every South Asian celebrity…

The 96th annual Academy Awards concluded on March 10, 2024, at Los Angeles’s Dolby Theater, with Oppenheimer dominating the award ceremony with seven wins. On the fashion front, the Oscars 2024 once again served as a platform for South Asian celebrities to showcase their impeccable fashion sense and leave an…

The significance of life cover in protecting your investment goals

Protecting one's investing objectives against unanticipated life occurrences has become critical. Among numerous vehicles, life insurance stands out as a key shield, protecting individuals and their families' financial futures. Understanding the significance of life insurance in this context is critical for anybody seeking to guarantee that their investing journey, including…

Government’s pick to tackle Islamophobia resigns

FIYAZ MUGHAL, said to be chosen by Michael Gove to address Islamophobia, has stepped down, expressing doubts about the government's resolve on the issue. Mughal, 52, said that his name was approved by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to lead anti-extremism efforts as the first anti-Muslim hatred…

Andrew Tate detained in Romania over UK sex offense charges

Andrew Tate, a controversial influencer, and his brother Tristan have been apprehended in Romania in connection with sexual offense charges issued by UK authorities, according to Romanian police on Tuesday. Romanian authorities executed "two European arrest warrants issued by the UK judicial authorities for the committing of sexual offenses, of…

Poster of new film ‘JNU: Jahangir National University’ sparks debate

The poster of a new film, titled JNU: Jahangir National University, has sparked a debate on social media with many criticising it as a "propaganda film". Written and directed by Vinay Sharma, the movie is set to be released in theatres on April 5. It features an ensemble cast of…

New UK residents could unlock up to £300 in car…

Sponsored by Marshmallow Insurance There are numerous challenges that recent migrants to the UK face, but one that is frequently overlooked is the process of driving, obtaining a vehicle, and securing car insurance. Understanding the costs associated with car insurance and the driving regulations in the UK can be bewildering…

Nottingham stabbings: Victims’ families seek answers on killer’s escape

FAMILIES of victims in Nottingham attacks want to know how the killer, Valdo Calocane, slipped through the net to kill three people last year. Students Barnaby Webber, Grace O’Malley Kumar, both 19, and school caretaker Ian Coates, 65, were stabbed to death on 13 June last year. Now the families…

India rejects China’s objections to Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh

INDIA on Tuesday (12) rejected Chinese objections to prime minister Narendra Modi's weekend visit to Arunachal Pradesh, saying the northeastern border state has always been "an integral and inalienable part of India". The Indian foreign ministry's comments came a day after Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said Beijing was…

One in five UK adults not looking for work, finds…

While political parties are promising to boost the UK's economic growth, the high level of the economic inactivity rate in the country remains a cause for concern, BBC reports. The number of people not employed or actively looking for work has remained high in recent years, ever since it first…

My mother a role model for women, says Akshata

Akshata Murty, the wife of British prime minister Rishi Sunak, has lauded her mother Sudha Murthy as a prominent female role model in business. During an International Women's Day celebration at Downing Street, Akshata emphasised the significance of mentors for women and girls in the business world. As part of…

Viewing racist images is crucial for grappling with our history,…

In an exploration of history, art, and societal reflections, artist Keith Piper embarks on a thought-provoking journey with his commissioned response to the contentious Rex Whistler mural at Tate Britain. This almost 100-year-old artwork, titled The Expedition in Pursuit of Rare Meats, has been secluded from the public eye since…

Anant Shah of Meghraj Group declared bankrupt

THE high court has declared Anant Shah of Meghraj Group of companies as bankrupt with effect from February 12 this year. During a recent pension tribunal hearing, Shah expressed his inability to pay the pension dues of the former staff of Meghraj Bank that closed down in 2000. The pensioners’…

Mimicry of celebs all in good fun: Jamie Lever

What do you do when you get an 8 am call from Usha Uthup with the legend screaming 'I love you!' in your ears and asking you to mimic her? That's what happened to stand-up comic and actress Jamie Lever, and Uthup's wish became her command. Jamie, a social media…

Dev Patel emotional as ‘Monkey Man’ gets standing ovation at…

Actor Dev Patel was seen fighting back tears after his directorial debut Monkey Man received a standing ovation at the South by Southwest (SXSW) film festival. The much-anticipated India-set movie, also written by the Slumdog Millionaire and Lion star, had its world premiere at the film gala, held annually in…

Breedon Group’s acquisition of BMC bolsters presence in US market

ONE OF THE UK's leading construction materials firm, Breedon Group, has acquired US-based BMC Enterprises for £238.1 million to bolster its presence in the American market. This acquisition marks Breedon's first entry into the US building materials industry. British Indian entrepreneur Amit Bhatia serves as the non-executive chairman of Breedon,…

North Indian diet linked to increased risk of heart disease

A new study by The George Institute for Global Health India suggests a link between dietary habits in north India and a higher risk of heart disease. The research focused on sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein intake, all of which can influence the development of chronic diseases. “A poor nutritious…

Sporadic protests in India over contentious citizenship law

Sporadic protests have erupted in India against a citizenship law that has been criticised for discriminating against Muslims, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government implemented the legislation just days before a general election is announced. Protests broke out in the eastern state of Assam and the southern state of Tamil…

Report accuses Cricket Scotland of prejudice against women

CRICKET SCOTLAND has plunged into fresh crisis after a damning independent report revealed serious concerns around the sports body's treatment of women and girls who "face a toxic environment and high degree of prejudice". The British media reported that The McKinney Report, an independent neutral assessment carried out by a…

The Best Ways to have a Good Slot Game Experience

Slot gaming is one of the most popular gaming genres on the market. The demand for slot games is high and is expected to grow over the next decades. Due to high demand, more companies and developers have released their own slot games and created their gaming platforms. More slot…

India plays vital role in shaping Commonwealth’s work: Baroness Scotland

INDIA not only shaped the birth of the Commonwealth, but will also continue to play a vital role in shaping its work, the organisation’s secretary general, Baroness Patricia Scotland, said on Monday (11) on the occasion of Commonwealth Day. Baroness Scotland, who was scheduled to visit India later this week,…

Pakistan cabinet tasked with ending economic crisis

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the key members of his cabinet, tasking them with leading the country out of a crippling economic crisis fuelled by debt, spiralling inflation and a feeble rupee. Pakistan's 19 new ministers took their oath of office Monday, after an election marred by allegations of…

Modi launches master plan for Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram

Indian prime minister Modi inaugurated the ₹1200 crore Gandhi Ashram Memorial masterplan on the anniversary of the historic Dandi Yatra in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. During the event, he stressed the significance of preserving the country's heritage, stating that a nation failing to cherish its heritage jeopardises its future. "The Sabarmati Ashram…

UK unemployment edges higher as wage growth eases

Unemployment in recession-hit Britain has nudged higher as growth in wages falls further, according to official data Tuesday that supports analyst expectations of an upcoming cut to UK interest rates. The unemployment rate rose to 3.9 per cent in the three months to the end of January, up from 3.8…

Comment: Politicising counter-extremism puts us all at risk

FRIDAY marks the fifth anniversary of the Christchurch mosque massacre in New Zealand. Some 51 people were murdered, at two mosques, where they had gone to pray. That is a stark reminder of the deadly threat posed by hateful extremism. Keeping citizens safe is the first responsibility of governments. Extremism…

Grammy winner Rakesh Chaurasia collaborates with Bickram Ghosh for new…

Indian classical musician Bickram Ghosh released yet another song from his album, 'Glorious India,' featuring the powerful anthem 'Veer.' With 'Glorious India,' Bickram Ghosh weaves together a tapestry of melodies that pay homage to the rich heritage and spirit of the nation. The music anthem features Grammy winner Rakesh Chaurasia,…

Ed Sheeran returns to India for his second concert after…

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, who is in India for his second concert tour, spent the first day of his India trip on Tuesday by visiting a school and playing music for young children here. The 33-year-old singer's concert, part of his "+ - = ÷ x Tour", is slated to take…

Indian troops exit Maldives following quit order

INDIA has begun withdrawing military personnel operating surveillance aircraft in the Maldives after the new pro-China president ordered them to leave, local media reported Tuesday (12). The Mihaaru newspaper reported that 25 Indian troops deployed in the southernmost atoll of Addu had left the archipelago ahead of March 10, the…

Bangladesh releases Islamist leader after 15 months

Bangladesh has freed the head of the largest Islamist party, officials said Tuesday, 15 months since counter-terrorism officers arrested him after he vowed to take part in anti-government protests. The release of Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman comes as political tension eases following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's fourth consecutive election…

Anderson’s defection to Reform UK a setback to Tories

Embattled UK leader Rishi Sunak suffered a fresh blow Monday when a former ally defected to a right-wing populist party that is worrying the ruling Conservatives ahead of this year's general election. Lee Anderson announced that he was joining Reform UK, weeks after he was suspended from Sunak's Conservative party…

‘Heartening to see my work being acknowledged’: Rani Mukerji

Actress Rani Mukerji has been on a roll. Her powerful performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway is making her win prestigious awards at several events. On Sunday night, she won the Best Actor trophy at Zee Cine Awards. On receiving the award, Rani exclaimed, "This award is very special for…

Best destination dupes to explore this summer

Hopping on a flight to explore renowned and trendy destinations is undeniably thrilling, but the downsides of overcrowding often go unnoticed. The more popular the destination, the more crowded it becomes. Check these exotic locations instead! Island Dupes: If not Hawaii check Puerto Rico [caption id="attachment_283804" align="aligncenter" width="1254"] (Representative image:…

Medical devices can be prone to racial biases: Report

Pulse oximeters record higher readings in people with certain skin tones, or AI-enabled medical devices may have a bias against some population groups - these are some of the findings of an independent review of medical devices. The government has announced measures to tackle such biases in the design and…

Renowned Sufi singer Kailash Kher bid farewell to Parmarth Niketan

In a harmonious blend of spiritual melodies and divine encounters, the renowned spiritual Sufi singer Padma Shri Kailash Kher and the mesmerizing Kailasa Band bid farewell to the International Yoga Festival (IYF) at Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh. This momentous occasion, marked by blessings from Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, unfolded against the…

India to enact divisive citizenship law

India's interior ministry said Monday it was enacting a citizenship law that critics say discriminates against Muslims, just weeks before the world's most populous country heads into a general election. While the law was passed in December 2019, its implementation was delayed after widespread protests and deadly violence erupted in…

A decade of mystery: Disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight 370

Ten years have passed since Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 vanished from radar screens, creating one of the greatest aviation mysteries in history. Despite extensive search efforts and investigations, the fate of the Boeing 777, carrying 239 people from 15 countries, remains unknown. Theories abound, but conclusive answers elude authorities and…

Asha Bhosle announces debut of granddaughter Zanai

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle's granddaughter Zanai Bhosle is set to make her cinematic debut. The young girl will be seen essaying the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's wife Rani Sai Bhonsale in filmmaker Sandeep Ssingh's upcoming film The Pride of Bharat - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Announcing the debut of Zanai,…

Oscars 2024: Big names and movies snubbed at 96th Academy…

Hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, the 96th Academy Awards unfolded pretty much as expected, with Oppenheimer dominating the award ceremony with seven wins while Maestro and Killers Of The Flower Moon were majorly snubbed. Maestro had secured 10 nominations in some of the biggest categories, but the film failed to win…

Integration in Britain is failing, says Baroness Falkner

Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) chair Baroness Kishwer Falkner has said integration appears to be failing in Britain following a decade of increased migration, The Telegraph reports. The 68-year-old Baroness of Margravine expressed concern over the “complacency” among politicians regarding increased immigration. The former Liberal Democrat said in the…

Musk warns of power crisis by 2025 as AI and…

In a stark revelation, entrepreneur Elon Musk has sounded the alarm on a potential global power crisis as artificial intelligence (AI) and electric vehicles (EVs) continue their rapid expansion. Speaking at the Bosch Connected World conference, Musk highlighted the accelerating demand for electricity, stressing the need for an urgent focus…

Princess of Wales apologises for editing Mother’s Day photo

The first officially released photograph of the Princess of Wales, following her abdominal surgery two months ago has sparked controversy as some of the world's major picture agencies, including Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, and Reuters, have recalled it amid claims of manipulation. The image, intended to commemorate Mother's Day in…

Hunt’s budget seeks to facilitate much-needed long-term growth for UK

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt last week delivered a well-measured performance in the House of Commons, despite rowdy parliamentary theatrics from the opposition benches. With little fiscal room for manoeuvre, Hunt announced a plethora of measures impacting key policy areas including taxation, public debt and spending, housing, transport and energy. The package…

India bank ordered to publish anonymous election bond data

India's top court on Monday ordered the state-run bank to publish details of previously anonymous political donations made in the form of controversial electoral bonds - with the disclosures to be made before upcoming national polls. Last month, the Supreme Court outlawed the scheme, under which individuals and companies could…

Dilip Kumar’s ancestral home in Pakistan damaged in recent rains

Legendary late actor Dilip Kumar's ancestral home in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a national heritage, is almost on the verge of collapse after being severely damaged in the recent rains, an official has said. The torrential rains fully exposed tall claims of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Archive Department about the…

Oscars 2024: ‘RRR’ sequence played out during special tribute to…

An action sequence from SS Rajamouli's RRR made an appearance at the 96th Academy Awards in a montage celebrating the contribution of the stunt community towards international cinema. Oscar nominees Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt presented the 1.15-minute showreel at the grand event, which was held on Sunday night at…

Oscars 2024: ‘Oppenheimer’ dominates with seven wins

Director Christopher Nolan's biopic film Oppenheimer swept the Oscars 2024 with seven wins including Best Director, Best Film, and Best Leading Actor awards. The film took home a total of seven awards during the gala night. Christopher Nolan won Best Director, Cillian Murphy won Best Actor and Robert Downey Jr.…

3D rendering of philosopher Chanakya looks like Dhoni, internet reacts

A 3D model crafted by scientists to depict the 4th century BCE economist and philosopher, Chanakya, surprisingly resembles the former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, sparking amusement and memes across Indian social media platforms. The captivating 3D model, crafted by the scientific minds at Magadha DS University, shared…

British hedge fund trader Sanjay Shah on trial in Denmark

A British hedge fund trader accused of defrauding Danish tax authorities in a billion-dollar scam goes on trial in Copenhagen on Monday, just days after his associate was handed an eight-year sentence. Sanjay Shah, who was arrested in June 2022 in Dubai where he was living, is accused of running…

Oscars 2024: Art director Nitin Desai remembered ‘In Memoriam’

Renowned production director Nitin Desai, who created sets for blockbuster movies such as the Oscar-nominated Lagaan and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, was among the film personalities who were honoured in the 'In Memoriam' segment at the 96th Academy Awards. Every year, the Academy Awards pay a tribute to industry…

UK pledges extra cash for Muslims’ security

The British government on Monday pledged £117 million towards protecting Muslim communities amid a rise in Islamophobia as it promises more action to tackle extremism. The new funding, announced just over a week after extra cash was promised to enhance security for Jewish groups amid soaring anti-Semitism, will be used…

Oscars 2024: Complete list of winners at 96th Academy Awards

R-rated biographical drama Oppenheimer dominated the 96th edition of the Oscars, winning seven awards out of 13 nominations including top honours of best picture and director for Christopher Nolan, his first. It was also a night of firsts for other members of the Oppenheimer team with Cillian Murphy (best actor), Robert Downey…

Asif Ali Zardari sworn in as Pakistan President

Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday took oath as Pakistan's 14th President, a day after the veteran politician was overwhelmingly elected as the next head of state. Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath to the 68-year-old Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the Presidential Palace. Zardari will replace Dr Arif…

India become number one Test side overtaking Australia

India has climbed to the number one spot in Test cricket rankings following an emphatic 4-1 series victory against England. The Indian team moved past Australia who are now second in the table, according to the rankings released by the International Cricket Council late Saturday. India lost the opening Test…

Boris Johnson held unofficial talks with Venezuela president: Report

Former prime minister Boris Johnson flew to Venezuela in February for unofficial talks with its President Nicolás Maduro, The Times reports. Johnson spoke to the Venezuelan president about the war in Ukraine, amid concerns that the South American nation could supply weapons or military support to Russia. Venezuela has been…

UK terror attack survivors: ‘Don’t equate Islam with extremism’

More than 50 survivors of terrorist attacks in the UK have signed a joint letter against politicians conflating British Muslims with extremism, according to media reports. Survivors and relatives of those killed during attacks in London, Manchester, and Brussels are among the signatories. The open letter, coordinated by Survivors Against…

Amitav Ghosh awarded 2024 Erasmus prize for pioneering writings on…

Renowned Indian writer Amitav Ghosh has been awarded the Erasmus Prize 2024 for his impactful writings addressing the planetary crisis and climate change. The prestigious award, presented annually by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation in the Netherlands, recognizes exceptional contributions in the fields of humanities, social sciences, or arts globally. Ghosh,…

Aanand L Rai to make streaming debut with romance-drama show

Filmmaker Aanand L Rai says he is set to roll out his debut web production, a romance-drama series, this year. The digital space is populated by projects in the mystery and thriller genres, said the director, adding he aims to deliver something different to audiences. "There are people making fantastic…

Police officer and friend convicted of insurance corruption

A police constable and his friend have been found guilty of corruption in motor insurance claims after abusing their positions. PC Akeel Kadir, 54, from Wigan, exploited his role within Greater Manchester Police to access confidential information, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said in a statement. He misused this data…

Pro-Palestine activists damage Lord Balfour painting in University of Cambridge

Politicians have condemned a "moronic act of vandalism" after pro-Palestine activists damaged a portrait of Lord Balfour. An investigation has been initiated by the police following the vandalisation of a painting depicting Lord Balfour, a politician associated with the creation of Israel. Palestine Action, a group of activists, claimed responsibility…

SRK teams up with daughter Suhana for son Aaryan’s brand…

Shah Rukh Khan's co-star in his latest commercial is none other than his daughter Suhana. On Friday, the father-daughter duo treated fans to a video of the new ad for Aryan Khan's clothing brand D'Yavol. Sharing the video on his Instagram, SRK wrote, "The collab you didn't know you needed...…

YRF’s ‘The Railway Men’ continues to trend on Netflix

The buzz around R. Madhavan and Kay Kay Menon-starrer series The Railway Men has not gone yet. The YRF series, released on Netflix in November 2023, has emerged as one of the most successful Indian shows on the streaming giant, read a statement shared by the team of 'The Railway…

India starts deporting Myanmar refugees after visa policy change

INDIA has begun deporting the first group of Myanmar refugees who sought shelter there after a military coup in 2021 and plans to send back more in the coming days, weeks after saying it would end a visa-free border policy with Myanmar. Thousands of civilians and hundreds of troops from…

Shakti opened door for fusion music in India: Grammy winner…

Percussionist V Selvaganesh says fusion band Shakti, which last month won the Grammy for its latest album, has inspired many young musicians since its formation in the 1970s. The 57-year-old musician credits founding members of Shakti -- guitarist John McLaughlin, percussionists Zakir Hussain and TH ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram, and violinist L…

Kerala offers answers to post-pandemic tourism demand, says state’s tourism…

SEVERAL states in India nowadays take the initiative to hold investors’ meets in a bid to lure investment in a competitive federal system. Irrespective of the ruling party, the states have made it a policy to hold such summits, particularly keeping in mind the areas where they can capitalise on. …

Kourtney Kardashian comes out as ‘autosexual’, says most women are

Kourtney Kardashian recently shared intimate insights into her sexuality, bravely revealing that she identifies as autosexual. The 41-year-old recently opened up in an interview about identifying as autosexual and claimed that 'most women are, even if it's just a little.' Autosexuality is a nuanced aspect of human sexuality characterised by…

EG Group to sell UK assets to co-founder Zuber Issa:…

EG Group is in talks to sell some of its UK assets to co-founder Zuber Issa to reduce the heavy debt burden of its petrol-station business, reported The Financial Times. The company, co-owned by brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa along with private equity firm TDR Capital, informed investors about ongoing…

Sunny Singh Gill becomes first British Indian referee in Premier…

SUNNY SINGH GILL was standing at the proverbial career crossroads one year ago. He had the option to continue as a prison officer or concentrate on carrying forward his family’s rich footballing legacy by chasing his refereeing dream. Cut to 2024, the 39-year-old will script history at Selhurst Park on…

India crush England to seal Test series 4-1

INDIA beat England by an innings and 64 runs in the final test to win the five-match series 4-1 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Saturday (9). Having conceded a lead of 259, England were all out for 195 in their second innings on day three of the…

International Yoga Festival begins at Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh

AS MANY AS 1,200 yoga lovers from 75 countries are expected to participate in the International Yoga Festival (IYF) at Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, India, which started on Friday (8). Governor of Uttarakhand state, Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh, will inaugurate the event on Saturday (9) which is being organised…

Can technology enhance customer rewards?

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are continually seeking innovative ways to foster customer loyalty and satisfaction. Embracing technology has become a cornerstone strategy for achieving these goals. From retail to entertainment industries, businesses are leveraging cutting-edge technology to transform the customer experience and enhance rewards programs. In this…

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan reveals how she balanced a full-time career and…

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan became an overnight star after she appeared in Mindy Kaling’s hit coming-of-age teenage drama Never Have I Ever on Netflix. Now 22, the actress was just 17 when she landed the lead role after beating out 15,000 applicants. Ramakrishnan recently spoke at Forbes and Know Your Value’s 30/50…

TV actress Dolly Sohi dies due to cervical cancer

Actress Dolly Sohi, best known for TV shows Jhanak and Bhabhi, died on Friday morning at a Navi Mumbai hospital due to cervical cancer hours after her younger sister Amandeep Sohi, also an actress, succumbed to jaundice. Dolly, 47, was diagnosed with cervical cancer around six months ago and was…

Sunak’s mother-in-law appointed to Indian parliament

The mother-in-law of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was on Friday appointed to serve in India's parliament, capping a career working for the philanthropic arm of her billionaire husband's tech firm. Sudha Murty, 73, is the former chair of the Infosys Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the global tech behemoth…

India raids network sending citizens to fight for Russia

Indian authorities said they had detained members of a "trafficking" network sending citizens of the country to fight for the Russian army in Ukraine after raiding several travel agents. Two years since Russia's invasion began, tens of thousands of its soldiers have been killed in Ukraine and Moscow is on…

IMF backs new Pakistan programme, urges poll row resolution

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Friday it will support formulating a new economic programme for Pakistan if the country's new government seeks one, while encouraging the fair resolution of all electoral disputes. Cash-strapped Pakistan grappled with an uncertain February 8 election that delayed the formation of a coalition…

Former prime minister Theresa May not to seek re-election

FORMER prime minister Theresa May announced on Friday she will stand down as an MP at the next election, adding to a growing list from the UK's ruling Conservatives to abandon leader Rishi Sunak. May, 67, is the most high-profile of scores of Tory lawmakers to say they will not…

Indian army using kites to combat drones, surveillance

THE Indian army is using kites, a bird of prey from eagle family, to fight drones and carry out surveillance missions, according to Tribune newspaper. During a joint India-Japan army exercise 'Dharma Guardian' in the Rajasthan state, a kite flew overhead providing real-time imagery and situational awareness to ground troops.…

Six members of South Asian family stabbed to death in…

SIX people from Sri Lanka, including a mother and four young children, were knifed to death in the Canadian capital Ottawa late on Wednesday (6), police said on Thursday (7), rocking a country where mass murders are rare. Prime minister Justin Trudeau said he was horrified by what he called…

Need to develop laws related to artificial intelligence: Ayushmann Khurrana

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana on Thursday said while filmmaking and technology go hand-in-hand, there is a need to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Khurrana was speaking on the third day of FICCI Frames 2024 in Mumbai at the session titled "From Bollywood to Turkish Drama: Acting across borders" along…

‘Shaitaan’ Review: Atmospheric and unsettling

Fronted by Ajay Devgn, R Madhavan, and Jyotika, Shaitaan is a supernatural horror thriller film. An official remake of the 2023 Gujarati horror film Vash, Shaitaan weaves a tangled web of supernatural intrigue that grips the audience from the outset. Directed by a newcomer to the genre, Vikas Bahl, the…

India stretch lead after Rohit and Gill depart

INDIA lost centurions Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill soon after lunch but stretched their lead to 158 on day two of the fifth and final test against England on Friday (8). England captain Ben Stokes resumed bowling after eight months to take a wicket with his first ball, and James…

Sanjay Leela Bhansali launches music label

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Thursday launched his music label Bhansali Music. Bhansali, who is set to make his streaming debut with Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, has previously composed music for his films Guzaarish, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, and Gangubai Kathiawadi. Through the label, the director-composer aims to collaborate with…

Badenoch: India’s election not a deadline for trade deal

TRADE secretary Kemi Badenoch on Thursday (7) said she did not see a forthcoming election in India as a deadline for securing a trade agreement between the countries, saying it would be "challenging" to secure a deal by then but possible. Britain and India have held stop-start talks over a…

Electoral bonds: Contempt action sought against bank

A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking contempt action against the State Bank of India (SBI) alleging it "wilfully and deliberately" disobeyed the apex court's direction to submit details of contributions made to political parties through electoral bonds to the Election Commission by March 6. The plea,…

TOP 10 British Asian women entertainers

We are often fascinated when we spot a person of colour in British entertainment, be it cinema, series or any other source of entertainment. On this International Women's Day, we made a list of women who have brought colours to the British entertainment sector and have not only won the…

Pioneering Indian women from the British Era

On the occasion of International Women's Day, we honour the women who have been striving for their rights and equality since the discrimination began. But do you know, that some women have marked history in the British Colonial era, although that time they were away from the spotlight? The British…

Whey-based innovation makes extracting gold from e-waste lucrative and sustainable

Gold, a revered metal throughout history, is not only a symbol of wealth but also a crucial component in various industries such as electronics, aerospace, medicine, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. However, with gold being a non-renewable resource, its increasing value poses challenges. In a groundbreaking study, researchers from ETH Zurich in…

Sunak hails impact of British Asians on country’s economy and…

Prime minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to the “incredible contribution of south Asian people to our economy and our society” as he congratulated winners at the annual GG2 Leadership and Diversity awards. Sunak also witnessed the unveiling of the GG2 Power List which profiles the country’s 101 most influential and…

Kuldeep routs England, openers put India in charge

India bowled England out for a below-par 218 and cruised to 135-1 in their robust reply to seize early control of the fifth and final test on Thursday. Kuldeep Yadav wrecked England's top order and fellow spinner Ravichandran Ashwin polished off the tail to bundle out England in just over…

Post office ‘not fit’ to run pay-outs for victims: Report

The UK parliament's Business and Trade Committee has listed a lot of shortcomings in the compensation plan for the postmasters wrongly prosecuted in the infamous Post Office Horizon IT scandal, according to media reports. In its report issued on Thursday (7), the committee said the post office was not fit…

Aryan Khan says it was a ‘learning experience’ directing father…

In a recent interview with GQ, Aryan Khan discussed his experience working with his father, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Aryan, who launched his luxury streetwear brand Dyavol X last year, directed an advertisement featuring his superstar dad. Reflecting on the collaboration, Aryan stated while interacting with GQ, “It’s always a…

German man gets 217 Covid vaccine shots, study says no…

A 62-year-old German man has reportedly received 217 doses of the Covid vaccine against medical advice, as detailed in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal. The shots were obtained and administered privately over 29 months. Despite concerns, the man has shown no adverse effects, according to researchers from the University of…

‘No silver bullet’ but Conservatives hope for tax cut boost

British finance minister Jeremy Hunt's new tax cuts have given his struggling Conservatives slim hope of narrowing the wide gap with the opposition Labour Party before an election expected later this year, but the scale of the challenge remains huge. Hunt announced a two percentage-point cut in the rate of…

Comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli appears in court on sex offence…

Scottish comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli has appeared in court accused of sex offences, according to media reports. The 55-year-old Glasgow resident is accused of three charges of indecent assault, one charge of sexual assault and two charges of breach of the peace. Kohli has appeared on TV shows including Celebrity…

India confirms citizen fighting with Russian army dead

India's embassy in Moscow has confirmed the death of a citizen recruited by the Russian army, days after a relative told AFP he had been sent to fight in Ukraine. Two years after Russia's invasion began, tens of thousands of its soldiers have been killed in Ukraine and Moscow is…

School in Indian state creates history by unveiling first AI…

In a groundbreaking move, a school in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has introduced Iris, the first humanoid robot teacher in India, marking a revolutionary step in education. Developed in collaboration with Makerlabs Edutech, Iris is a product of the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) project, initiated by NITI Aayog in 2021 to enhance…

Former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto didn’t get a fair…

PAKISTAN's Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (6) that former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who was hanged 44 year ago after being convicted of murder, didn't get a fair trial. Bhutto, the founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) now run by his grandson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto…

Jasdeep Singh Degun becomes first sitar player to win Royal…

Leeds-born sitarist and composer Jasdeep Singh Degun has become the first sitar player to win a Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) Award, winning in the Instrumentalist category. The award ceremony took place yesterday evening at Manchester’s Royal Northern College of Music. Billed as 'the biggest night in UK classical music’, the…

Japan bats for cricket at 2026 Asian Games

THE Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) is keen to have cricket at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, and is exploring the idea of converting a baseball stadium in Nagoya for this purpose, officials said. Administrators perceive multi-sport events like the Asian Games as an opportunity to boost cricket, which…

Karan Johar to host 71st Miss World pegaent in Mumbai

Celebrated filmmaker Karan Johar is set to host the 71st Miss World. The finale is taking place in India after 28 years. Miss World’s official Instagram profile announced the same. “We are honored to announce that Karan Johar @karanjohar, a renowned Indian filmmaker, will host the 71st Miss World Festival.…

Inzamam calls out Pakistan’s cricket board officials

PAKISTAN’S former captain Inzamamul-Haq on Monday (4) criticised the country’s cricket board for removing Mohammad Hafeez as team director due to recent poor results, asserting that it was unfair to “target” ex-players in administrative roles when officials were refusing to shoulder any responsibility for the side’s performance. The Pakistan Cricket…

Festival short film ‘Halfway’ makes a towering statement about love

THE strong south Asian contingent at this year’s BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival includes Halfway. Kumar Chheda has delivered an English-language short film about a young queer couple in India going through a turbulent phase in their relationship, who need to make an important decision during a phone conversation.…

New theatre version of My Beautiful Launderette retains its power

THE enduring power of Hanif Kureishi’s writing was showcased by the successful stage adaptation of his brilliantly written 1985 film, My Beautiful Launderette. Staged in 2019 at The Curve in Leicester, the play proved its continued relevance in contemporary times. A new version of the play returned to the same…

Javed Ali delivers a spectacular performance

JAVED ALI’S extensive repertoire spanning diverse languages makes him one of the most versatile singers of this generation. From emotive love ballads to soul-stirring Sufi compositions and lively dance numbers, his voice exudes sheer power. While his contributions to hit songs in numerous Indian films are remarkable, it’s on the…

‘Bhangra Nation’: Exploring the clash of cultures and identity

EASTERN EYE readers had better hurry if they want to catch Bhangra Nation: A New Musical at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre where it is on only until next Saturday (16). I went last week and I’m glad I did, as the evening turned out to be very enjoyable. The Rep…

Woman charged with murder of 10-year-old daughter

A 33-year-old Asian-origin woman on Wednesday appeared before a UK court charged with the murder of her 10-year-old daughter, who was found dead at their home in a town in the West Midlands region of England. Jaskirat Kaur, also known as Jasmine Kang, appeared before Wolverhampton Magistrates Court charged with…

Sadhguru: Finding the essence of life

THERE is a lot of talk about “detachment” these days, essentially because there is a fear of involvement with life. Actually, the fear is not about involvement; the fear is about entanglement. Because people do not know the distinction between involvement and entanglement, they talk about detachment. If you know…

Sri Lanka T20s ‘key to World Cup plans’: Bangladesh captain

THE Bangladesh captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, said last Sunday (3) he wanted his team to use the three-match Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka to perfect the format ahead of the World Cup in June. The series, which began on Monday (4) in Sylhet as Eastern Eye went to press, marks…

Navya Naveli Nanda: Star kid fights the patriarchy

BEING born into a famous film family could quite easily have taken Navya Naveli Nanda down the well-trodden path of acting in Bollywood, partying and flashy holidays. The socially conscious entrepreneur has smashed all those stereotypes about star kids and dared to do things differently. The granddaughter of India’s greatest…

Learning to trust again

HAVE you ever stopped to consider the immense power of trust? Not just in others, but in yourself? It’s the foundation on which we build our lives, a force that shapes our experiences and opens countless possibilities. Imagine waking up each morning feeling sceptical about everything. Every interaction, every opportunity…

Critics’ Choice Awards nominations: ’12th Fail’, ‘Kaathal’ vie for best…

The nominations for Critics' Choice Awards (CCA) 2024 were announced on Wednesday with 12th Fail, Kaathal - The Core, and Joram among the eight contenders for the top prize of the best picture. The sixth edition of the awards will honour the best of talent in feature films, short films,…

Nitin Sawhney says he suffered heart attack recently

The Award-winning British Indian musician Nitin Sawhney, who had to withdraw from Australia’s premier world music festival WOMADelaide due to a medical emergency, has revealed that he ‘had a heart attack’ a few days ago. Known for musical scores in over 70 films, including for a screen adaptation of Salman…

Gurpreet Singh: Taking on television challenges

TALENTED television star Gurpreet Singh has delighted audiences with memorable performances in hit drama serials such as Kahiin To Hoga, Saarrthi, Mahabharat, Porus and the recently concluded Chand Jalne Laga. The diverse roles he has played have showcased his impressive range as an actor and contributed to his strong body…

Anushka Khanna: Creating timeless fashion classics

INTERNATIONALLY renowned fashion designer Anushka Khanna has effortlessly combined her Indian heritage with a global perspective. From made-to-order, ready-to-wear and bespoke creations to dressing A-list celebrities such as Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor, she has turned her brand into a powerful symbol of girl power.…

Hunt unveils pre-election tax cut for workers

CHANCELLOR Jeremy Hunt offered voters tax cuts in a bid to woo them back to prime minister Rishi Sunak's Tories ahead of an expected 2024 election, slashing the emergency reserves in the public finances to the bone. Hunt said he was reducing the rate of social security contributions (NICs) paid…

‘Crakk’ review: Absolutely nothing works in awful action movie

THIS action movie revolves around a slum dweller named Siddu, who dreams of participating in a deadly sports contest in a far-off land. After showing off his ability to do daredevil stunts, he travels abroad without a valid visa to compete against contestants from around the world. It soon emerges…

Growth in construction boosts India’s economy

INDIA’S economy grew 8.4 per cent in the December quarter, official data showed last Thursday (29), with a surging manufacturing sector helping defy more modest analyst forecasts. Thursday’s results were significantly higher than the seven per cent projected by India’s central bank and other, lower estimates by analysts. “Double-digit growth…

Red Sea data cable cut, claims telecom firm

The undersea cable network in the Red Sea is facing disruptions with cables getting cut and this has affected data traffic flow between Asia and Europe, BBC reports. Hong Kong-based HGC Global Communications said four of the 15 cables were recently severed and it has taken measures to reroute the…

Photojournalist says Rohingya women in Bangladeshi camps are ‘inspiring’

A PHOTOGRAPHER has spoken of how she has charted the journey of Rohingya women “reclaiming their lives” in the refugee camps of Cox Bazaar in Bangladesh. Fabeha Monir is among five women whose work will be displayed in an exhibition at the Oxo Tower Wharf gallery in London’s SouthBank. The…

India basmati exports to fall as Pakistan offers competitive prices

INDIA’S basmati rice exports are likely to drop in 2024 after nearing a record high last year, as Pakistan is offering the grain at competitive prices amid a rebound in production, industry officials said. Pakistan and India are the leading exporters of the premium long-grain variety of rice, famous for…

Tata Motors plans to split car division for EV focus

INDIA's Tata Motors, which owns Jaguar Land Rover, is planning to separate its car division as it wants to focus more on making electric cars in the future, reported The Telegraph. The split means Tata Motors will have two separate divisions: one will make regular cars, and the other will…

New genetic study on Indians points to Iranian influx

India, a land of diverse cultures and languages, has long intrigued scientists with its rich tapestry of people. In a groundbreaking quest, led by geneticist Priya Moorjani, researchers are delving into the genetic story of how India's vibrant population came to be. Imagine ancient groups – hunter-gatherers, Iranian-rooted farmers, and…

Charles Crowson: ‘Valuing time and spending it well is really…

TIME is money”, but what does the expression really mean, especially to British Asians? This is the question finance guru Charles Crowson is eminently qualified to answer. Speaking to Eastern Eye, the author of Jam Tomorrow? Why Time Really Matters In Economics recalled the Indian boys who had studied with…

Birmingham approves service cuts, tax hikes to avoid bankruptcy

COUNCILLORS in the UK's second-largest city Birmingham on Tuesday (5) approved tax hikes and deep cuts to public services including arts funding and rubbish collection, as the city fights to avoid bankruptcy. The city council, which needs to save £300 million over two years to survive, voted to increase local…

Community pharmacists can play key role in integrated NHS: Bharat…

COMMUNITY pharmacists can play a key role in an integrated NHS and help improve patient care, an influential business leader in the sector has said. Bharat Shah, who co-founded Sigma Pharmaceuticals, said stronger collaboration among primary healthcare providers can provide patients with the best possible care by fostering a unified…

Iconic female characters in Bollywood films

THERE will be another global celebration of girl power on International Women’s Day. The annual day on March 8, aiming to empower women and girls will once again highlight everything from important social causes to human rights, equality and celebrating female heroes. Eastern Eye decided to mark the occasion by…

‘Enjoy Enjaami’ controversy: AR Rahman distances from music label Maajja

On the third anniversary of the “Enjoy Enjaami” song on Tuesday, 5 March, well-known music director Santosh Narayanan took to Instagram and X and put out posts claiming that the artists involved in making the song had not made any revenue. For those not in the know, “Enjoy Enjaami” is…

Lord Gadhia scoops top honour at GG2 Leadership Awards

Lord Jitesh Gadhia, chairman of the British Asian Trust, was recognised for over three decades of public and community service with the GG2 Hammer Award at the annual GG2 Leadership and Diversity Awards, held at the Park Plaza hotel on Tuesday (5). After coming to Britain as a refugee from…

Wales first minister visits India to strengthen ‘close collaboration’

THE First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, was at the Indian High Commission in London last Thursday (29) to announce that 2024 would be a year of close collaboration between his country and India. “Wales in India”, his government said in a formal statement, “is a 12-month series of events…

Amit Shah meets Asha Bhosle, unveils her photobiography ‘Best of…

India’s Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday met with veteran singer Asha Bhosle and unveiled the latter's photobiography 'Best of Asha'. Conceptualised and initiated by Mumbai Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and MLA Ashish Shelar, 'Best of Asha' is a compilation of photographs of the singer captured by ace photographer…

‘Virdee’: Bradford-set drama set to make Asian casting history

THE BBC has announced a “truly diverse” cast for Virdee, a six-part television series adapted from AA Dhand’s crime novel, City of Sinners. Having a mainly Asian cast playing both heroes and villains is regarded as being a groundbreaking first for British TV. The tale has a characteristically grim opening:…

Sara Ali Khan is on a sinking ship

THE fact that Sara Ali Khan’s career has been derailed will be illustrated by her back-to-back film releases this month. Instead of getting a cinema release, her movie Murder Mubarak will be dumped on Netflix next Friday (15). A week later, on March 22, Ae Watan Mere Watan will be…

Taiwan minister apologises for ‘racist’ jibe against Indian workers

Taiwan's labour minister Hsu Ming-chun has apologised for her comments on Indian migrant workers after they drew sharp criticism of being racist. The island nation bordering China plans to recruit Indian workers and has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian government on February 16 to help alleviate labour…

Rochdale by-election result reflects Gaza anger

BRITAIN has more than three million Muslims from many cultural backgrounds. It has become customary for politicians to say, “the vast majority of Muslims are hardworking, decent and law-abiding, but there a small extremist fringe”. My guess is most Muslims in Britain are pleased George Galloway won the Rochdale by-election.…

Babita Sharma’s new book celebrates ‘sassy sleuth’ and corner shop…

YOUNG Asian girls can be fun, sassy, adventurous and intelligent and should be celebrated, journalist and author Babita Sharma said, ahead of her new children’s book being published next week. Priya Mistry and the Paw Prints Puzzle tells the story of a young girl who loves to solve mysteries, such…

Taylor Swift’s familial connection to Emily Dickinson stirs renewed interest…

Emily Dickinson, often regarded as the "patron saint of the shy," is entrenched in a cultural myth that paints her as a reclusive figure, clad in white, who wrote poetry in seclusion. However, recent connections between Dickinson and pop sensation Taylor Swift, claiming them to be sixth cousins, three times…

Lawyers flag concerns over cricket broadcast rights in Reliance-Disney deal

A PROPOSED merger of Walt Disney’s and Reliance’s media assets in India could spark intense anti-trust scrutiny over their market power, with lawyers flagging concerns that the combined entity’s strong portfolio of cricket broadcast rights could impact advertisers. The Disney-Reliance $8.5 billion (£6.7bn) merger would create India’s No 1 TV…

Nikki Haley ends White House bid

FORMER US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley will suspend her presidential campaign on Wednesday (6), according to a source familiar with her plans, ensuring that Donald Trump will win the Republican nomination and once again face Democratic president Joe Biden in November's election. Haley will give a speech at…

Accelerate reforms to stop violence against women, says Priti Patel

FORMER home secretary Dame Priti Patel has called for an “acceleration” in reforms to support those affected by violence against women in memory of the late Sarah Everard and other women. Findings of an inquiry into the rape and murder of Everard by a British police officer three years ago…

Judge who declined to jail terrorism offence trio to be…

A senior judge who spared jail terms for three women protesters, accused of displaying pro-Hamas images during a pro-Palestinian march in London, will now be investigated over his alleged bias, The Times reports. Heba Alhayek (29), Pauline Ankunda (26), and Noimutu Olayinka Taiwo (27) were found guilty of a terror…

Indian cricket board drops Iyer and Kishan from annual contracts…

SHREYAS IYER and Ishan Kishan were not considered for annual contracts for the 2023-24 season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said last Wednesday (28). Iyer was on a Grade B contract last year while Kishan had a Grade C contract. But despite playing in the 50-over…

Visas for healthcare workers and dependants put pressure on Sunak

BRITAIN almost doubled the number of visas given to foreign health and care workers last year, government data showed, adding to pressure on prime minister Rishi Sunak over immigration ahead of an election expected later this year. Data released last Thursday (29) by the Home Office showed that Britain granted…