Sonakshi Sinha has been in the industry for the past 10 years. The actress has played various characters, but for the first time, we will get to see Sonakshi playing a real-life character in the film Bhuj: The Pride Of India.
Sonakshi will be seen playing the role of Sunderben Jetha Madharparya. Today, the actress took to Instagram to share her look from the film.
Sonakshi posted, “Honoured to play the HEROIC role of Sunderben Jetha Madharparya, the brave social worker who took 299 women along with her to support the Indian Army! #BhujThePrideOfIndia a crucial incident from History will unveil soon with #DisneyPlusHotstarMultiplex on @DisneyPlusHotstarVIP! @ajaydevgn @duttsanjay @ammyvirk @norafatehi @sharadkelkar @pranitha.insta @abhishekdudhai6 @bhushankumar @tseriesfilms @ginnykhanuja @vajirs @kumarmangatpathak #celebratingthevictory #WeSaluteIndianSoldiers #OurSoldiersAreTheBest #OurSoldiersOurPride.”
Well, the actress’ look is damn impressive and it surely looks like a strong character.
The movie, which also stars Ajay Devgn, Sanjay Dutt, and Nora Fatehi, was earlier slated to hit the screens on 15th August this year. But now, the makers have decided to release the movie on the OTT platform, Disney+ Hotstar. Earlier, Parineeti Chopra was supposed to play a pivotal role in the film. However, she opted out of the movie and later Nora Fatehi replaced her.
Bhuj: The Pride of India is set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. It is surely one of the most awaited films of the year.
A document long believed to be a mere copy of Magna Carta has been identified as a rare original dating back to 1300, making it one of the most valuable historical manuscripts in existence, according to British academics.
The discovery was made after researchers in the UK examined digitised images of the document, which has been held in Harvard Law School’s library since 1946. At the time, the manuscript was purchased for just $27.50 – approximately £7 at the then exchange rate – and described as a damp-stained 14th-century copy. Today, that sum would be roughly $450 (£339) adjusted for inflation.
However, medieval history professors David Carpenter of King's College London and Nicholas Vincent of the University of East Anglia now believe the manuscript is an original Magna Carta from the year 1300, issued during the reign of King Edward I.
“This is a fantastic discovery,” said Professor Carpenter, who first began analysing the document after encountering its digitised version on Harvard’s website. “It is the last Magna Carta... It deserves celebration, not as some mere copy, stained and faded, but as an original of one of the most significant documents in world constitutional history – a cornerstone of freedoms past, present and yet to be won.”
Professor Carpenter said he was “absolutely astonished” by the finding and by the fact that the manuscript’s true nature had gone unrecognised for decades. “That it was sold for peanuts and forgotten is incredible,” he added.
Magna Carta, first issued by King John in 1215, is widely regarded as a foundational document in the history of constitutional law. It established the principle that everyone, including the monarch, was subject to the law, and it granted basic liberties and protections to the king’s subjects. The charter has had a lasting influence, shaping constitutional frameworks in countries around the world.
The academics hope that the newly authenticated Magna Carta will be made available for public viewingHarvard
Following the 1215 version, the charter was reissued multiple times by successive monarchs, culminating in the 1300 edition issued under King Edward I. During this period, it is believed that around 200 original copies were produced and distributed across England. Only 25 of these originals are known to survive today, from the various editions between 1215 and 1300. Most are in the UK, with two in the US National Archives in Washington DC and one in Parliament House, Canberra.
“It is an icon both of the Western political tradition and of constitutional law,” said Professor Vincent. “If you asked anybody what the most famous single document in the history of the world is, they would probably name Magna Carta.”
The professors now believe the document discovered at Harvard originated in the town of Appleby, Cumbria. They traced its likely path through a prominent landowning family, the Lowthers, who are thought to have passed the manuscript to Thomas Clarkson, a leading anti-slavery campaigner in the 1780s. From there, the document entered the Maynard family estate.
In late 1945, Air Vice-Marshal Forster Maynard sold it at auction through Sotheby’s, where it was purchased by a London bookseller for £42. Harvard Law School acquired it months later for a fraction of that price, and it was catalogued as HLS MS 172 – a “copy made in 1327”.
The manuscript will become one of the most significant items in Harvard’s collectionHarvard
To determine the manuscript’s authenticity, Professors Carpenter and Vincent spent over a year analysing the text and comparing it to the six other known originals from the 1300 issue. Due to its faded condition, they did not work directly from the original but instead examined images taken using ultraviolet and spectral imaging techniques.
They found that the handwriting, dimensions and phrasing of the manuscript all matched the characteristics of the confirmed 1300 versions. The exact wording was critical to establishing its authenticity, as the text of Magna Carta was slightly altered with each reissue. The Harvard manuscript passed these tests “with flying colours”.
The value of the document could be extremely high. In 2007, a 1297 version of Magna Carta sold at auction in New York for $21 million – around £10.5 million at the time. While Professor Vincent declined to estimate the exact value of the Harvard version, he acknowledged it could be worth a similar figure.
Amanda Watson, assistant dean for library services at Harvard Law School, praised the discovery and the work of the academics involved. “This exemplifies what happens when collections are opened to brilliant scholars,” she said. “Behind every scholarly revelation stands the essential work of librarians, who not only collect and preserve materials, but create pathways that otherwise would remain hidden.”
The academics hope that the newly authenticated Magna Carta will be made available for public viewing, allowing more people to appreciate its historical significance.
“This document speaks to the very roots of legal liberty,” said Professor Carpenter. “It is more than just a piece of parchment – it’s a living symbol of the rights we enjoy and continue to fight for today.”
If confirmed by additional verification and widely recognised as an original, the manuscript will become one of the most significant items in Harvard’s collection and a key artefact in the history of global democracy.
Australia's Pat Cummins celebrates with the ICC Test Mace on the podium along with teammates after winning the World Test Championship final in 2023. (Photo: Reuters)
THE WINNERS of next month’s World Test Championship (WTC) final between Australia and South Africa will receive $3.6 million, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday after raising the prize money.
The ICC has increased the prize pool significantly. In the previous WTC final held in 2023, Australia won $1.6 million after beating India, who took home $800,000 as runners-up.
The losing team in the upcoming June 11-15 match at Lord’s will receive $2.1 million – more than the winners earned in the past two finals.
"The increase in prize money exhibits the ICC's efforts to prioritise test cricket as it looks to build on the momentum of the first three cycles of the nine-team competition," the ICC said in a statement.
Australia captain Pat Cummins said the team was prepared to meet any challenge in order to defend their WTC title.
"We are enormously proud to have the opportunity to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord's," Cummins said.
"It's a testament to all those involved across the past two years who have worked incredibly hard to reach the final, which is a great honour for all of us."
South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said the team was focused on winning their first ICC title.
"Everyone understands the importance of test cricket and the World Test Championship lends context to this vital format of the game.
"Lord's is a fitting venue for this mega fixture and all of us will be out there trying to give our best against Australia," Bavuma said.
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Yorkshire Water said boiling tap water before consumption
A temporary 'do not drink' notice was issued to residents in parts of North Yorkshire this week following the detection of coliform bacteria in the local water supply, indicating possible contamination with human or animal waste.
Yorkshire Water advised nearly 200 postcodes across High Bentham, Low Bentham, and Burton in Lonsdale not to consume tap water unless it had been boiled, after routine testing identified above-average levels of coliforms. These bacteria are found in the digestive systems of humans and animals and can include strains such as E. coli. While coliforms themselves can cause gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhoea and stomach cramps, their presence may also indicate the risk of other harmful bacteria in the water system.
In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, Yorkshire Water said boiling tap water before consumption would provide adequate protection. Bottled water was also supplied to customers registered on the company’s priority services list, including those with medical needs or limited access to boiling facilities.
The company confirmed that all impacted properties had received hand-delivered boil water notices, and customers could check their address status via Yorkshire Water’s website. During the incident, the company said it was continuing to carry out sampling to monitor the quality of the water supply and was working closely with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to identify the cause and ensure safety.
The contamination is still being investigatediStock
On Wednesday at 5:15pm, Yorkshire Water announced that the boil water notice had been lifted for all affected areas. The company stated: “We can confirm that we are now able to lift the boil water instruction at all affected properties in the local area as the water is now back to our usual high standards. Customers can now use their tap water as normal.”
A spokesperson added: “We’d like to apologise to everybody impacted and thank them for their understanding and patience throughout.”
While the cause of the contamination is still being investigated, Yorkshire Water reiterated that it had taken swift action to protect public health and to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
The boil order came as part of routine water quality testing, which Yorkshire Water said had detected results that did not meet its usual standards. Until the problem was resolved, the company urged caution and reassured customers that boiling water was an effective precautionary measure.
The incident highlights the importance of regular testing and rapid response protocols in maintaining safe public water supplies. Though the warning has now been lifted, Yorkshire Water is expected to continue investigating the root cause of the contamination to prevent future occurrences.
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Addressing soldiers in Srinagar, Singh said, 'Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation? I believe that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should be taken under the supervision of IAEA.' (Photo: Reuters)
INDIA's defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) should take charge of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. His remarks came days after the two countries ended their most serious military confrontation in nearly three decades.
Addressing soldiers in Srinagar, Singh said, “Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation? I believe that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should be taken under the supervision of IAEA.”
There was no immediate response from Pakistan to Singh’s statement.
Fighting broke out last week after India carried out airstrikes on what it called “terrorist camps” inside Pakistan. The airstrikes were in response to an attack in Indian Kashmir last month that killed 26 men. India said the attack was backed by Pakistan. Islamabad denied the charge.
In the days that followed, both countries sent missiles and drones into each other’s airspace. A truce was reached on Saturday.
The IAEA is a United Nations watchdog based in Vienna that monitors nuclear programmes to ensure they are peaceful.
India and Pakistan became nuclear powers after conducting nuclear tests in 1998.
The latest conflict escalated on Saturday, raising concerns that nuclear weapons could come into play. Pakistan’s military had said that a top body overseeing its nuclear arsenal would meet. However, the Pakistani defence minister later said no such meeting was scheduled.
Military analysts said the announcement may have been intended as a signal, as Pakistan has a “first-use” policy if its existence is under threat.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that India would strike terrorist hideouts across the border again in the event of another attack, and would not be deterred by what he called Islamabad’s “nuclear blackmail”.
Pakistan rejected Modi’s remarks, calling them “provocative and inflammatory assertions” and said they represent a dangerous escalation.
India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorists fighting security forces in its part of Kashmir. Pakistan denies the charge.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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Crossed creative horizons and collaborated with global talent
Whether it is her cool songs like Checka, Piya Piya Calling and Siste Dans, cutting-edgeEP Running Deep, or acclaimed 2024 debut album Shahrazad, Delara has consistently crossed creative horizons and collaborated with global talent.
The award-winning Norwegian singer has lit up the live scene, clocked millions of streams, and connected with diverse cultures through her eclectic music. The fabulously forward-thinking talent has added to her impressive achievements with the newly released Kalash Reimagined, a bold collaboration with Indian singer Charan, Pakistani producer Talal Qureshi and Jamaican-American rapper BEAM.
Eastern Eye caught up with Delara to discuss her music, inspirations, future hopes and unique new single.
Her new track, Kalash ReimaginedInstagram/ amandadelara
What first connected you to music?
I think music was always part of my life before I even knew what it meant to me. I grew up in a household where my parents would talk about life and politics around the dinner table. That energy of emotion, reflection and curiosity somehow found its way into the songs I started writing. Music became my space for understanding myself and the world around me.
How do you reflect on your music journey so far?
I’m proud of how much I’ve dared to evolve. From the start, I didn’t take the easiest route. I sang about politics and personal struggles when people told me not to. But I’ve always trusted that staying true to myself would lead me to where I’m meant to go. That has shaped me into the artist I am today – a mix of experimentation, boldness and vulnerability.
Which of your songs is closest to your heart?
That’s a hard one, but Unbound will always be very close to me. I wrote it during a time when I was thinking a lot about the impermanence of life, and how nothing and no one lasts forever. The relationship I have with my mother, who means everything to me, inspired much of that song. Having her in the music video made it even more emotional and personal.
How much did the acclaim your debut album received mean to you?
Of course, I’m grateful for the recognition, but I try not to get too caught up in critical acclaim. What means the most to me is the feedback I get from listeners – people who send me messages or come up to me after shows saying a song helped them through something. That’s what gives me confidence and keeps me creating.
Tell us about Kalash Reimagined.
Kalash Reimagined takes the original track to new heights by merging powerful voices and sounds from different parts of the world. After working on Piya Piya with Coke Studio last year, it felt natural to expand on this fusion of cultures. The remix blends south Asian sounds, Jamaican energy and Norwegian–Iranian influences to create something bold and deeply emotional. It is a celebration of what can grow when different worlds collide.
What was it like collaborating with Charan, Talal Qureshi and BEAM?
Collaborating with Charan, Talal and BEAM was an amazing experience. Charan brought his unique perspective and fresh energy to the track. Talal’s creativity and musical vision really helped elevate the sound, while BEAM’s raw intensity added something special. It felt like a real meeting of different worlds, with voices that had something real to say. The collaboration was a true exchange of energy and ideas, and it came together beautifully.
How would you describe this track?
It’s a powerful fusion of sounds and emotions. Kalash Reimagined is bold, raw and unapologetic – yet playful and full of energy. The track exists in the spaces between cultures, not trying to represent everything but highlighting what can grow when worlds collide. It celebrates shared experiences and the beautiful complexity that emerges from blending different backgrounds.
Who are you hoping this song connects with?
I hope this track resonates with anyone who feels caught between cultures or identities. It is for those who do not fit neatly into one box. Whether you are from south Asia, the diaspora, the Caribbean or anywhere in between, I want the song to speak to those who feel empowered by blending different worlds – and who are open to the beauty that comes from that fusion.
What can we expect next from you?
There is a lot on the horizon. I’m about to announce my biggest headliner show yet, which I’m incredibly excited about. I’m also working on new music and visual projects that will push boundaries, along with more cross-cultural collaborations like Kalash Reimagined. The goal is always to connect sounds and stories in unexpected ways. I’m exploring fresh creative paths, keeping things organic and letting ideas flow freely.
Who would you love to collaborate with? There are so many, but right now I would love to work with artists who challenge genres and tell strong stories – people like Bad Bunny, Rosalía, Frank Ocean or even Raveena. Artists who are not afraid to blend cultures and sounds.
What kind of music dominates your personal playlist?
It’s a mix of many things. But with summer approaching, there is a lot of Afro, reggaeton, salsa, r’n’b and hip hop. I’ve actually created a personal playlist that I share with my listeners.
What inspires you as an artist?
Life itself – my family, friends, conversations with strangers, travelling, latenight thoughts, missing home, or wondering what home even means. I get inspired by contradictions, and those quiet moments of reflection when I’m not even trying to create.
Why do you love music?
When I’m creating music, I feel the most free. It is a space where only your mind, creativity and ideas matter – not how you look or how others see you. Music was the first place where I felt truly seen and heard. It’s a powerful force of connection, the closest thing we have to real magic – a universal language that everyone understands. In just seconds, music can make us feel a little less alone. How can you not love that?