THE Italian Football Federation (FIGC) says up to 1000 Italy fans will be allowed to travel to London for Sunday’s Euro 2020 final under strict conditions, including a five-day quarantine on their return.
European football’s governing body UEFA has agreed with British authorities to allow a maximum of 1000 supporters to fly from Italy and attend the game at Wembley Stadium.
Under current UK rules, travellers from Italy must isolate for 10 days on arrival in England, so the fans attending the showpiece game against England or Denmark must agree to strict conditions.
They can only be on British soil for up to 12 hours and they will have to stay in a secure bubble by using charter flights and dedicated transport to get to and from the airport and the stadium.
This will be organised by the FIGC at a cost of 610 euros (£524) per person, while inside Wembley a special section will be dedicated to these travelling fans to keep them separated.
Additionally, fans must return negative Covid-19 tests before and after the journey, and they will have to self-isolate for five days when they return to Italy.
Kaisi Ye Paheli, the first feature by filmmaker Ananyabrata Chakravorty, is heading to the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) for its world premiere on 21 June. The film, which has also landed nominations for Best Screenplay and Best Debut Film, unfolds as a dark comedy set in a sleepy north-eastern hill town, where a lonely mother tries to reconnect with her distant son, a cop, by helping him solve a murder.
Chakravorty deliberately chose an unconventional tone for a very emotional subject. “We wanted to talk about loneliness and strained family ties, but without making it heavy,” he says. “Dark comedy lets us open up serious issues while still keeping people engaged. It’s how we get them to stay, watch, and then reflect.”
The director says the story wasn’t crafted to tick festival boxes. “We didn’t take the usual route. We told a story we believed in and on our own terms. And the NYIFF recognition feels even more special because of that,” he adds.
A quiet storm of emotions and forgotten relationships
The story revolves around a woman trying to bridge a painful gap with her grown-up son. Set against the scenic beauty of Sikkim, the film explores themes rarely spoken about in Indian cinema, especially the emotional vacuum many older women feel, particularly when their roles as mothers go unacknowledged.
Veteran actress Sadhana Singh returns to the screen in the lead role. “Sadhana ji brings warmth, dignity, and vulnerability to the character. She didn’t need much direction. She just understood the soul of the part,” Chakravorty shares. The cast also includes Kaala Paani’s Sukant Goel, Rajit Kapur who returns as a Bengali detective, and Chittaranjan Giri.
Produced by Nishu Dikshit and Take Pictures, Kaisi Ye Paheli is not just a quirky murder mystery; it’s a mirror to the invisible cracks in family relationships. And by wrapping it in humour, the film dares you to smile before it makes you think.
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A STAMPEDE broke out in Bengaluru on Wednesday during celebrations for Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL victory, resulting in multiple deaths, according to a senior government official.
Indian media reported that as many as 11 people may have been crushed to death outside Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said the exact number of fatalities had not yet been confirmed.
"The tragedy and death have brought deep pain and shock," Shivakumar said in a statement. "My condolences to the deceased. My condolences to their family."
An AFP photographer reported large crowds, with police attempting to control them using sticks.
Shivakumar said "hundreds of thousands of people" had gathered on the streets. "I have spoken to the police commissioner and everyone, I will also go to the hospital later – I do not want to disturb the doctors who are taking care of the patients," he said.
"The exact number cannot be told now. We appeal to the people to remain calm."
Broadcasters aired footage of police rushing children away from the crowd, some of whom appeared to have fainted. One young man was seen in an ambulance struggling to breathe.
NDTV reported that at least 11 people had died, while The Times of India said seven had been killed.
"This is not a controllable crowd," Shivakumar told reporters. "The police were finding it very difficult."
"I apologise to the people of Karnataka and Bengaluru. We wanted to take a procession, but the crowd was very uncontrollable... the crowd was so much," he said.
Despite the incident, the celebrations went ahead. A video shared by the team’s social media account showed cheering crowds as a bus carrying the players, including Virat Kohli, moved through the streets.
"This welcome is what pure love looks like," the team posted on X.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told NDTV that those inside the stadium were unaware of the stampede during the celebrations. "At the time of the celebrations inside the stadium officials there did not know what had happened... I would like to send my heartfelt condolences," he said.
Shivakumar said organisers had "shortened the programme".
"This is a very sad incident," Rajeev Shukla, vice president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, told India Today. "No one imagined that such a huge crowd would turn up."
Deadly crowd incidents have occurred at Indian mass events in the past, including a 2023 religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh where 121 people were killed.
For over 15 years, DJ Shai Guy has been the heartbeat of Bombay Funkadelic, one of London’s most loved Bollywood club nights. Now, he's switching things up, literally. With the launch of Bollyday, the UK’s first ever Bollywood day-timer, where he’s tapping into a new generation of partygoers who love the music but want to be home at a reasonable hour. The party starts at 4pm and finishes by 9pm. Eastern Eye caught up with the man behind the decks to find out how he’s reinventing the desi night out.
DJ Shai Guy First Bollywood Day Party
What led you towards becoming a Bollywood DJ?
I became a Bollywood DJ because I’d go to parties advertised as ‘Bollywood nights’, but half the playlist would be bhangra! Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a Bollywood snob, but I like knowing what I’m signing up for. I saw a gap in the market for something truly Bollywood-focused. That’s when fate brought Jas Bajaj (the founder of Bombay Funkadelic) into my life, and we teamed up to deliver proper Bollywood experiences to proper fans.
What inspired the idea behind Bollyday?
But here’s the thing: over the years, my audience has evolved. They’ve grown up, got married, had kids and now they crave routine and early nights. Yet their love for Bollywood bangers hasn’t gone anywhere. Bollyday is for them — it’s for the people who want to dance their hearts out, but still be home in time to walk the dog or binge-watch a drama.
So, this is more than just a daytime party, this is a lifestyle shift?
Exactly! Clubbing culture has changed, and people’s needs have changed with it. You’ve got 30, 40 and 50-somethings who still want to enjoy themselves, but the idea of queuing in the cold at midnight just doesn’t appeal anymore. Bollyday flips that on its head. Come in the afternoon, dance like nobody’s watching, and be in your PJs by 9-10pm.
Bollyday Poster
What makes Bollyday different from other Bollywood events?
We’re not just shifting the clock - we’re shifting the vibe. Expect the same high-energy atmosphere, killer playlists, and community spirit of a night time club, but with a twist: we’re doing it all in daylight. We’re also being super intentional with the music - it’s 100% Bollywood, and curated for both hardcore fans and those who just want a bit of nostalgic fun. It’s also the only event where you’ll find a dancefloor popping off at 3pm on a Saturday with aunties, uncles, millennials and Gen Z all vibing together. It’s inclusive, fun, and fresh.
Do you think daytime Bollywood parties could become a trend?
Absolutely! I think we’re on the cusp of something. Just look at how day festivals, brunch parties, and sober raves have taken off. People want to have fun without feeling wrecked the next day. Bollyday taps into that, while giving the Bollywood community something tailor-made. No more compromises. It’s about time we had our own daytime scene.
What can people expect at the first Bollyday this Saturday?
Expect pure feel-good energy. It’s happening at Popworld London, 17 Watling Street, London just seconds away from St Paul's Cathedral - an amazing venue with serious character. We’ve got a stellar sound system, brilliant lighting, and of course, I’ll be on the decks spinning everything from Shah Rukh Khan classics to the latest Bollywood hits. Come ready to sing, dance, and relive your favourite filmi moments - just a few hours earlier than usual!
Finally, what’s your message to those who might still be on the fence about daytime clubbing?
Try it once, and I promise you’ll be hooked. Your feet will hurt, your voice might go, but you’ll still be in bed by ten. What’s not to love?
A Chinese scientist working at a top US university has been arrested over allegations of smuggling a dangerous crop-destroying fungus into the United States. The pathogen, classified as a potential agroterrorism weapon, poses risks not only to crops but also to human and animal health.
Scientist pair accused of conspiracy
Yunqing Jian, 33, a researcher at the University of Michigan, was arrested and charged with conspiracy, smuggling, visa fraud and making false statements. Her partner, Zunyong Liu, 34, who previously worked at a university in China, is also accused in the case. US authorities allege that the pair conspired to bring Fusarium graminearum—a fungus responsible for billions in global agricultural losses—into the country.
The fungus causes a plant disease known as "head blight", particularly in wheat, rice and barley. It not only devastates harvests but can also lead to vomiting, liver damage and reproductive problems in both humans and livestock if ingested.
Fungus labelled as an ‘agroterrorism weapon’
According to the FBI, Fusarium graminearum is recognised in scientific circles as a potential agroterrorism threat due to its severe economic impact and its ability to contaminate food supplies. The US attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Michigan confirmed that the University of Michigan does not hold federal permits to handle this pathogen.
'Fusarium graminearum' is recognised in scientific circles as a potential agroterrorism threat Telegraph
“It is responsible for billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide each year,” the statement added.
Smuggling attempt at Detroit airport
Authorities claim that Liu attempted to smuggle samples of the fungus through Detroit airport in July 2024. During an inspection, red-coloured plant material was discovered in his backpack. He was immediately returned to China, which does not have an extradition treaty with the US, making it unlikely that he will face charges unless he voluntarily returns.
Despite this, investigators say Jian was already working with the fungus at the University of Michigan before Liu’s interception. FBI director Kash Patel alleged via a post on X that Jian had previously received Chinese government funding for similar research in China.
Evidence of Communist Party loyalty
A search of Jian’s mobile phone revealed a document pledging her allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The declaration stated: “I adhere to the four basic principles, support the leadership of the Communist Party of China, resolutely implement the party’s educational guidelines and policies, love education, care for students, unite colleagues, love the motherland, and care about national affairs.”
The "four principles" referenced in the document include upholding socialism, the leadership of the CCP, Marxism-Leninism and Mao Zedong Thought (Maoism), and the people’s democratic dictatorship.
US Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr described the case as “of the gravest national security concerns,” citing fears that the CCP is using academics to infiltrate sensitive American institutions.
Suspicious research and communications
Investigators found messages between Jian and Liu indicating that they were both working on Fusarium graminearum in 2024. Liu's phone also contained an academic article titled "Plant-Pathogen Warfare under Changing Climate Conditions", which raised further suspicions.
Liu's phone also contained an academic article titled "Plant-Pathogen Warfare under Changing Climate Conditions"Telegraph
In court, Jian appeared handcuffed and visibly distressed. Her bond hearing is scheduled for Thursday. Journalists were barred from attending the session, but reports say she appeared shocked as the charges were read aloud.
University and White House respond
The University of Michigan issued a statement saying it had no involvement in the research and denied receiving any funding from the Chinese government related to the accused individuals.
“We strongly condemn any actions that seek to cause harm, threaten national security or undermine the university’s critical public mission,” the university said.
The case has surfaced at a sensitive time in US-China relations, with President Donald Trump expected to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week. Trade tensions remain high, particularly over agricultural tariffs, and US officials have expressed concern over China’s purchase of around 380,000 acres of American farmland, some near military installations.
Geopolitical backdrop
The arrest also comes amid a fragile pause in the ongoing US-China trade war. After Trump’s “liberation day” announcement on 2 April, tariffs on Chinese imports peaked at 145 per cent. China retaliated by placing levies on roughly £16 billion worth of US goods, particularly agricultural products, causing American grain prices to plummet.
The FBI has framed the fungus smuggling case as part of a broader pattern of Chinese interference in US domestic affairs, including attempts to undermine the nation’s food security.
“This case is a sobering reminder that the CCP is working around the clock to deploy operatives and researchers to infiltrate American institutions and target our food supply,” said Patel.
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There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to picking the perfect gaming console
The world of gaming consoles in 2025 is more exciting than ever, with devices offering everything from cinematic storytelling to portable play. Whether you're a casual gamer or a die-hard enthusiast, the right console can elevate your experience. But with multiple options on the market, choosing the best one depends on your play style, preferences, and budget.
Here’s a guide to the six best gaming consoles of 2025 and who each one is best suited for.
1. PlayStation 5 Pro – Best for story lovers and visual enthusiasts
Sony’s PlayStation 5 Pro builds on the success of the PS5 with even better graphics performance and ray tracing capabilities. Known for its exclusive, story-driven games like God of War: Ragnarök, Spider-Man 2, and Horizon Forbidden West, this console is ideal for gamers who love immersive narratives and cutting-edge visuals.
The DualSense controller adds to the realism with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, making gameplay even more engaging. If you’re after high-end performance and cinematic titles, the PS5 Pro is hard to beat.
2. Nintendo Switch 2 – Best for families and on-the-go gamers
The Nintendo Switch 2, released earlier this year, continues the hybrid tradition of its predecessor, offering both docked TV play and handheld portability. With enhanced battery life, improved Joy-Con stability, and a brighter OLED screen, the console is a strong upgrade for fans of Nintendo’s unique ecosystem.
It’s perfect for family-friendly games like Mario Kart 9, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Time, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. If you share your console or want something portable for travel, the Switch 2 fits the bill.
3. Xbox Series X – Best for multiplayer and game pass value
Microsoft’s flagship console remains a favourite in 2025 thanks to its robust performance, large storage capacity, and unmatched value via Xbox Game Pass. For a monthly subscription, players can access hundreds of titles, including Starfield, Halo Infinite, Forza Motorsport, and many indie favourites.
Its power and compatibility with cloud gaming also make it ideal for those who like playing online with friends or trying new games regularly. If multiplayer battles or discovering new titles are your priorities, the Series X is your console.
4. Steam Deck OLED – Best for PC gamers who want portability
Valve’s Steam Deck OLED offers the flexibility of a PC gaming rig in a handheld format. It supports the full Steam library, meaning users can take thousands of PC titles on the go. The OLED model enhances display quality, battery life, and ergonomics, making long gaming sessions more comfortable.
While it's not a traditional console, it's a smart choice for gamers with an existing PC game collection or those who prefer customising their settings. It’s particularly popular among indie game lovers and modders.
5. Xbox Series S – Best budget console for casual players
The Xbox Series S is a compact, digital-only console that provides a great entry point into next-gen gaming. It offers fast load times and decent graphical performance at a lower price point than the Series X or PS5.
Combined with Game Pass, it delivers great value for money, especially for those who don’t mind going digital. If you’re a casual player, new to console gaming, or working within a budget, the Series S gives you everything you need to get started.
6. MSI Claw 8 AI+ – Best for tech enthusiasts and customisation fans
MSI’s Claw 8 AI+ is one of the most powerful handheld consoles of 2025, featuring Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors and AI-powered enhancements. Designed for Windows gaming, it supports multiple storefronts like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Cloud Gaming.
With its 8-inch display, customisable controls, and impressive performance, it appeals to advanced users who want more than plug-and-play. Ideal for gamers who like tweaking settings, exploring mods, or running high-performance games on the go.
Gaming begins
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to picking the perfect gaming console. If you love cinematic adventures, the PlayStation 5 Pro is your best bet. Families and casual players will feel right at home with the Nintendo Switch 2. Multiplayer fans and value seekers should look no further than the Xbox Series X, while PC gamers might prefer the portability of the Steam Deck OLED. Those on a tighter budget have the reliable Xbox Series S, and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ caters to those who want top-tier handheld performance.
Whatever your gaming style, 2025 offers a console that’s tailored just for you. Choose wisely, and let the gaming begin.