Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
AUSTRALIAN cricketer Shane Warne, one of the finest spin bowlers of all time whose talent and personality transcended the sport, died aged 52 on Friday (4).
Warne, who ended his spell-binding international career in 2007 with a remarkable 708 test wickets, died from a suspected heart attack in Koh Samui, Thailand, his family confirmed in a statement.
"Shane was found unresponsive in his Villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived," the statement read.
"The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course."
Thai Police said Warne and three other friends were staying in a private villa and one of them went to inquire about him after the former cricketer did not turn up for dinner.
"The friend did CPR on him and called an ambulance," Chatchawin Nakmusik, an officer with of the Bo Put police on Koh Samui, told Reuters by phone.
"An emergency response unit then arrived and did another CPR for 10-20 minutes. Then an ambulance from the Thai International Hospital arrived and took him there. They did CPR for five minutes, and then he died."
They did not know the cause of death but were not treating it as suspicious, added Chatchawin.
Warne's death comes hours after another former Australian cricket great, wicket-keeper Rod Marsh died on Friday at the age of 74.
Warne's last post on Twitter, 12 hours before his death was reported, was a tribute to Marsh.
"Sad to hear the news that Rod Marsh has passed. He was a legend of our great game & an inspiration to so many young boys & girls. Rod cared deeply about cricket & gave so much-especially to Australia & England players. Sending lots & lots of love to Ros & the family."
Shane Warne (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Credited for reviving the art of leg-spin, Warne made his test debut in 1992 against India and by the time he ended his 15-year international career, the spinner had established himself as one of the all-time greats of the game.
He also had 293 wickets from 194 one-dayers and won the man-of-the-match award when Australia beat Pakistan in the 1999 World Cup final.
Rated among the five greatest cricketers of the 20th century, Warne was one of the game's prominent crowd-pullers whose craft as well as his lifestyle often made headlines.
The wily spinner frequently courted controversy and served a 12-month suspension after testing positive for banned diuretics in 2003.
Often called the best captain Australia never had, he inspired Rajasthan Royals to the inaugural Indian Premier League title in 2008.
Australia opener David Warner, currently playing in Pakistan, summed up the mood in the country.
"Two legends of our game have left us too soon. I’m lost for words, and this is extremely sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Marsh and Warne family. I just can not believe it. #rip, you will both be missed," he tweeted.
The doll features a glucose monitor, insulin pump and CGM app
Created in collaboration with type 1 diabetes charity Breakthrough T1D
Part of Mattel’s broader push for inclusivity and representation in toys
Barbie with type 1 diabetes joins inclusive fashionistas range
Mattel has launched its first diabetes Barbie doll, designed to represent children with type 1 diabetes and promote greater inclusivity in children’s toys.
The new addition to the Barbie Fashionistas line comes with realistic medical features including a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, secured with heart-shaped medical tape, and an insulin pump to help manage her blood sugar levels. She also carries a smartphone with a CGM app to monitor glucose throughout the day, and a bag large enough to store snacks and other essentials.
Designed in partnership with Breakthrough T1D
The diabetes Barbie doll was developed in collaboration with Breakthrough T1D, a global not-for-profit organisation supporting people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The autoimmune condition typically develops in childhood and requires patients to monitor their blood glucose and take insulin regularly.
Krista Berger, senior vice-president of Barbie and global head of dolls, described the launch as “an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation.”
“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love,” she said.
Karen Addington, CEO of Breakthrough T1D UK, welcomed the collaboration: “I’m absolutely thrilled that Barbie now includes a doll with type 1 diabetes. For children with T1D who don’t often see themselves represented, this doll will be a powerful role model, celebrating their strength and bringing recognition, inclusion and joy to their play.”
A growing legacy of inclusive design
Since the original Barbie’s debut in 1959, the brand has evolved to reflect greater diversity. The first Black Barbie dolls were introduced in the 1960s, followed by Hispanic dolls in the 1980s. From the 1990s onwards, Mattel expanded the range to include Barbies in under-represented careers such as astronauts and scientists.
It wasn’t until 2019 that Barbie dolls with visible disabilities were introduced. Since then, Mattel has launched more than 175 diverse Barbie looks as part of the Fashionistas range, which now includes dolls with hearing aids, prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, vitiligo, and Down’s syndrome. A black Barbie with Down’s syndrome and a blind Barbie are also part of the line.
The diabetes Barbie doll continues that trend, offering children with the condition a chance to see themselves positively reflected in their toys.
Industry-wide shift toward representation
Barbie is not the only toy brand prioritising diversity. UK-based brand Lottie includes dolls with autism and Down’s syndrome, while Lego offers a variety of inclusive minifigures, including characters with physical and non-visible disabilities.
Arjun Panesar, founding chief executive of Diabetes.co.uk, praised Mattel’s decision, stating: “Representation matters – especially in childhood. Seeing a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes helps normalise the condition, reduce stigma and show children that they are not alone.
“It’s a positive step forward in building confidence, inclusion and understanding around living with diabetes.”
Promoting empathy through play
The launch of the diabetes Barbie doll is not just about inclusion—it is also part of Mattel’s mission to extend the boundaries of imaginative play. The company says the goal is to encourage children to engage with experiences beyond their own, helping them to understand the challenges others may face.
As Barbie continues to evolve, the inclusion of realistic medical conditions such as type 1 diabetes signals a more inclusive future for toys and the children who play with them.
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Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa expecting first child, share news with sweet Instagram post
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa announced their pregnancy via a joint Instagram post on Wednesday.
The image showed a floral cradle with “Baby on the way” written on it, captioned simply: “Elated ❤️.”
Industry friends including Farah Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, and Esha Gupta congratulated them.
The couple, who were together for 11 years before marrying in 2021, recently launched their production house, KAMPA Film.
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa shared that they are expecting their first child together in a joint Instagram post on Wednesday. The announcement came with a floral-themed image featuring a cradle illustration that read, “Baby on the way,” along with their names. The couple summed up their feelings in one word: “Elated.”
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa smiling during a public appearance earlier this year Instagram/patralekhaa/rajkummar_rao
Couple’s first baby on the way
Rajkummar and Patralekhaa’s quiet reveal drew instant love from fans and colleagues alike. Filmmaker Farah Khan, who knew beforehand, joked in the comments, “Finally the news is out!! I was having a tough time keeping it to myself.” Others like Sonam Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Neha Dhupia, and Esha Gupta also sent in their warm wishes.
The duo dated for over 11 years before tying the knot in November 2021. Their relationship began well before they co-starred in CityLights, a 2014 film directed by Hansal Mehta. They've since appeared together in Bose: Dead/Alive and remained one of the industry’s most low-key but admired couples.
Rajkummar Rao will next be seen in Maalik, set for release on 11 July. He plays a gangster in the crime drama, which also stars Manushi Chhillar and Prosenjit Chatterjee. Patralekhaa, last seen in Phule, continues to balance film and OTT roles.
The couple recently launched KAMPA Film, a production banner named using the initials of their mothers’ names. “We’ve always believed in the power of storytelling,” Patralekhaa shared. Rajkummar added, “KAMPA is an extension of our love for cinema and each other.”
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Virat Kohli (C), along with his teammates, celebrates with the trophy after winning the Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 final cricket match against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 4, 2025. (Photo by ARUN SANKAR/AFP via Getty Images)
THE Indian Premier League's business value has been estimated at $18.5 billion (£13.5bn) with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru its wealthiest franchise, according to a report by an investment bank.
The world's richest cricket tournament has been a top revenue earner for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and in 2020 was estimated to generate more than $11bn (£8bn) a year for the Indian economy.
According to US investment bank Houlihan Lokey, which has valued several sports franchises around the world, the brand value of the 10-team T20 franchise tournament has seen a sharp rise of 13.8 per cent to $3.9bn (£2.8bn) over the past year.
Bengaluru, who along with star player Virat Kohli won their first IPL title this year, have overtaken five-time winners Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to achieve a brand value of $269 million (£196m). Mumbai is second with $242m (£176m), followed by Chennai at $235m (£171m).
The Houlihan Lokey report called the IPL "a global phenomenon" that has become more than just a cricket league.
"The IPL continues to set benchmarks in sports business. Franchise valuations have soared, media rights deals have reached record highs, and brand partnerships have diversified across sectors," Harsh Talikoti from Houlihan Lokey, said in a statement.
"The league's ability to attract global investors and sponsors reflects its status as a premier sports property with enduring appeal."
Bengaluru beat Punjab Kings for the title at the world's biggest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad in June to conclude the 18th edition of the league.
The report said the 2025 final had more than 678 million views on the official streaming platform JioHotstar, surpassing the India-Pakistan clash during the Champions Trophy in February this year.
The IPL, which is broadcast around the world and features top international stars such as Australia's Pat Cummins and England's Jos Buttler, mixes sport and showbusiness in a glitzy format, with a number of teams fronted by Bollywood movie superstars.
Since it launched in 2008 it has inspired a range of other franchise-based leagues in India in sports as diverse as boxing, badminton, poker and kabaddi, and spawned copycat cricket tournaments elsewhere.
(AFP)
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From Bollywood blockbusters to global collabs, the actor’s music videos continue to shape dance trends and digital culture
Jacqueline Fernandez has quietly built one of the most consistent records in the Indian entertainment industry when it comes to delivering chart-topping music videos. From high-voltage Bollywood dance numbers to independent cross-cultural hits, her music collaborations have repeatedly gone viral, not just for their sound but also for their styling, choreography, and screen presence.
Her latest track, Dum Dum, is currently trending across platforms, with fans and creators picking up on its hook steps and fashion cues. The song adds to a growing list of viral hits led by Fernandez, each one helping cement her image as one of the most recognisable music video stars in Indian pop culture today.
With viral choreography, bold styling, and mass appeal, Jacqueline’s music video appearances have become internet staples
Here’s a look at 12 of Jacqueline Fernandez’s most talked-about music videos, songs that continue to feature in playlists, dance reels, and party sets:
Yimmy Yimmy
One of 2024’s biggest global hits, this trilingual track featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Tayc made waves on both Indian and international charts. Jacqueline stood out for her statement styling, seamless transitions, and effortlessly catchy dance moves.
Jumme ki raat
A standout number from Kick, this collaboration with Salman Khan became a dance floor staple. Fernandez’s energetic performance and signature step made it one of the most replayed tracks of that year.
Ek do teen
Reinterpreting a classic is no small feat, but Jacqueline’s edgy rework of Madhuri Dixit’s iconic number drew both attention and debate. Her modern visual treatment and stylised choreography gave the song a new identity.
Genda phool
Pairing folk melodies with rap elements, this Badshah collaboration saw Jacqueline in a bold, traditional look. The visual contrast contributed to its mainstream appeal and high replay value.
Beat pe booty
In A Flying Jatt, her duet with Tiger Shroff introduced unconventional choreography that went on to spark a viral dance challenge. The light-hearted tone and quirky synchronisation became a hit among younger audiences.
Jadoo ki jhappi
One of her earlier tracks from Ramaiya Vastavaiya, this song featured Jacqueline in a more playful, bubbly avatar. Her expressive performance and dance energy were among the highlights.
Money money
From Raid 2, this high-energy track with Yo Yo Honey Singh featured Jacqueline in a glamorous, high-octane avatar. The visuals combined luxury aesthetics with fast-paced dance routines.
Chittiyaan kalaiyaan
A commercial success, this peppy number cemented Jacqueline’s place in Bollywood’s dance music scene. Her playful charm matched perfectly with the catchy hook, making it a long-running favourite.
Paani paani
Another successful team-up with Badshah, this song was visually driven, combining Rajasthani aesthetics with urban cool. Jacqueline’s look and screen presence added to the song’s viral momentum.
Mud mud ke
Paired opposite Italian actor Michele Morrone, this song expanded Jacqueline’s appeal beyond Indian borders. The music video leaned into sleek production and international styling, giving it strong crossover appeal.
Tik tik
A recent track with Dystinct and Vishal Mishra, Tik Tik brought together global sounds with Indian flair. Jacqueline’s performance showed her versatility in adapting to different musical and visual styles.
Dum dum
Currently dominating reels and dance challenges, Dum Dum taps into Fernandez’s strengths like vibrant choreography, bold styling, and magnetic on-screen energy. The track further reinforces her ability to tap into internet trends and mass appeal simultaneously.
These 12 songs reflect how Jacqueline Fernandez has turned dance numbers into viral cultural moments
With each of these tracks, Jacqueline Fernandez has managed to stay relevant in a fast-evolving music landscape. Her song choices often blur the lines between Bollywood glamour and global pop aesthetics, a combination that continues to resonate widely. From stage-ready choreography to viral fashion moments, she has become a reliable fixture in India’s music video culture.
And with Dum Dum now taking over timelines, that streak shows no signs of slowing down.
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Italian-born French fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli
“In difficult times fashion is always outrageous.” – Elsa Schiaparelli.
The Victoria & Albert Museum has announced its first ever UK exhibition dedicated to Elsa Schiaparelli, the visionary designer who blurred the boundaries between fashion, art and performance. Titled Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art, it runs from 21 March to 1 November 2026 in the Sainsbury Gallery and will draw on the V&A’s status as home to Britain’s National Collection of Dress and its foremost collection of Schiaparelli garments.
Vogue 1940; Designer Elsa Schiaparelli wearing black silk dress with crocheted collar of her own design and a turbanFredrich Baker/Condé Nast via Getty Images
Exhibition scope and highlights
Over 200 objects across media: garments, accessories, jewellery, perfume bottles, paintings, photographs, sculpture, furniture and archival sketches.
Iconic pieces on display:
The ‘Skeleton’ dress (with Salvador Dalí)
The ‘Tears’ dress and the surreal shoe hat (with Jean Cocteau)
Archive objects from Schiaparelli’s London branch, highlighting her dynamic UK clientele
Accompanying artworks by Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau and Man Ray
A survey of the brand’s modern era under creative director Daniel Roseberry, whose sculptural gowns have dressed Zendaya, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Doja Cat
“Schiaparelli’s collaboration with artists and the world of performance makes her an ideal subject,” said V&A Director Tristram Hunt, calling the show “a celebration of one of fashion’s most daring innovators.”
Delphine Bellini, CEO of Schiaparelli, adds: “Elsa Schiaparelli’s fearless imagination and radical vision redefined the boundaries between fashion and art.”
'Tears' Evening dress and head veil, designed by Elsa Schiaparelli, February 1938 for Circus Collection, summer 1938. Fabric designed by Salvador Dali Victoria and Albert Museum, London
From Paris salons to the Met Gala red carpet
Long before the V&A’s announcement, Natasha Poonawalla brought Schiaparelli’s surrealist drama to global attention. In 2022, she paired a gold Schiaparelli corset with a Sabyasachi sari, styled by Anaita Shroff Adajania. A year later, she returned to the Met Gala in a futuristic silver Schiaparelli gown, both moments underlining how Indian influencers are shaping today’s couture conversation.
Natasha Poonawalla attends The 2022 Met GalaGetty Images
Curators, press details and what’s next
Curated by Sonnet Stanfill, Lydia Caston and Rosalind McKever, the show is the first UK retrospective focusing on Schiaparelli’s output from the 1920s to 1954 and its present day revival.
Tickets on sale autumn 2025
Accompanied by a fully illustrated V&A catalogue, available autumn 2026
Part of the V&A’s major fashion exhibition series following Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams and Naomi: In Fashion
Vogue 1936; Two models, standing in a white room with arrows painted on walls and wearing dresses by Schiaparelli;Cecil Beaton/Condé Nast via Getty Images
What it means for South Asian style
This isn’t just a show for fashion students and couture fans. It’s a chance to see how a radical female designer redefined beauty and power, and how that legacy continues through Indian influencers like Poonawalla, who proudly bring together cultural identity with high fashion on the world stage.