Mumbai to Host State Funeral for Asha Bhosle; Fans to Pay Last Respects at Her Residence
Asha Bhosle, the legendary Indian singer, passed away on Sunday at the age of 92 due to age-related health complications, including multi-organ failure. Asha Bhosle, whose career spanned several decades and thousands of songs across various languages, will be accorded a state funeral in Mumbai, with her last rites scheduled for Monday afternoon at Shivaji Park.
Mumbai to Host State Funeral for Asha Bhosle; Fans to Pay Last Respects at Her Residence
Asha Bhosle, the legendary Indian singer, passed away on Sunday at the age of 92 due to age-related health complications, including multi-organ failure. Asha Bhosle, whose career spanned several decades and thousands of songs across various languages, will be accorded a state funeral in Mumbai, with her last rites scheduled for Monday afternoon at Shivaji Park.
India’s Nuclear Progress Gains Spotlight as US, France Investments Struggle
India has achieved a significant milestone in nuclear technology with the successful criticality of the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam on April 6, 2026. Developed by BHAVINI and
India’s Nuclear Progress Gains Spotlight as US, France Investments Struggle
India has achieved a significant milestone in nuclear technology with the successful criticality of the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam on April 6, 2026. Developed by BHAVINI and
Lockdown in India? Hardeep Singh Puri Dismisses Rumours as Completely False
Amid growing speculation about a possible nationwide lockdown in India, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has clarified that such rumours are entirely false. In a statement aimed at dispelling public concerns, Puri emphasized that there are no plans for any lockdown or restrictions on public movement. He urged citizens to stay calm, responsible, and united during these uncertain times. Puri took to social media to reassure the public, explaining that the government is closely monito
Lockdown in India? Hardeep Singh Puri Dismisses Rumours as Completely False
Amid growing speculation about a possible nationwide lockdown in India, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has clarified that such rumours are entirely false. In a statement aimed at dispelling public concerns, Puri emphasized that there are no plans for any lockdown or restrictions on public movement. He urged citizens to stay calm, responsible, and united during these uncertain times. Puri took to social media to reassure the public, explaining that the government is closely monito
Flight Reductions Begin: Indian Airlines Cut Services Amid Iran War Pressure
Indian airlines are reducing their operations by approximately 10% in response to rising costs and uncertainty stemming from the ongoing Iran conflict. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has released the summer schedule, which shows a reduction in the number of weekly domestic flights from 25,610 to 23,049. This cut affects several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. The primary reason for the flight reduction is the impact of the Middle Eas
Flight Reductions Begin: Indian Airlines Cut Services Amid Iran War Pressure
Indian airlines are reducing their operations by approximately 10% in response to rising costs and uncertainty stemming from the ongoing Iran conflict. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has released the summer schedule, which shows a reduction in the number of weekly domestic flights from 25,610 to 23,049. This cut affects several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. The primary reason for the flight reduction is the impact of the Middle Eas
Ram Navami 2026 Date: March 27, Significance and Traditional Foods
Ram Navami, an important festival in Sanatan Dharma, celebrates the birth of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In 2026, Ram Navami will be observed on March 27, aligning with the Udaya Tithi during Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. The day holds immense significance in Hinduism, especially in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, where thousands of devotees gather for prayers and celebrations. The Navami Tithi begins on March 26, 2026, at 11:48 AM and ends on Mar
Ram Navami 2026 Date: March 27, Significance and Traditional Foods
Ram Navami, an important festival in Sanatan Dharma, celebrates the birth of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In 2026, Ram Navami will be observed on March 27, aligning with the Udaya Tithi during Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. The day holds immense significance in Hinduism, especially in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, where thousands of devotees gather for prayers and celebrations. The Navami Tithi begins on March 26, 2026, at 11:48 AM and ends on Mar
Universal Music India Partners with Anirudh Ravichander for Non-Film Releases
Universal Music India has entered into an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records, the newly launched label by renowned artist Anirudh Ravichander. This strategic collaboration aims to release pop and hip-hop music, beginning with Anirudh's upcoming releases. The partnership also extends to emerging artists signed to Albuquerque Records, marking a significant step in Universal Music India’s expansion within these dynamic genres. The first release is scheduled for April, with much ant
Universal Music India Partners with Anirudh Ravichander for Non-Film Releases
Universal Music India has entered into an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records, the newly launched label by renowned artist Anirudh Ravichander. This strategic collaboration aims to release pop and hip-hop music, beginning with Anirudh's upcoming releases. The partnership also extends to emerging artists signed to Albuquerque Records, marking a significant step in Universal Music India’s expansion within these dynamic genres. The first release is scheduled for April, with much ant
Ugadi 2026 Guide: Date, Puja Timings, Rituals and Traditions Explained
Ugadi 2026, marking the Hindu New Year, will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Known as Yugadi in Karnataka, this important lunisolar festival symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and the beginning of a new cycle in the traditional Hindu calendar. The festival is widely observed across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka with vibrant traditions, spiritual rituals, and festive meals. The festival signifies the start of a new Samvatsara (year) and holds deep
Ugadi 2026 Guide: Date, Puja Timings, Rituals and Traditions Explained
Ugadi 2026, marking the Hindu New Year, will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Known as Yugadi in Karnataka, this important lunisolar festival symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and the beginning of a new cycle in the traditional Hindu calendar. The festival is widely observed across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka with vibrant traditions, spiritual rituals, and festive meals. The festival signifies the start of a new Samvatsara (year) and holds deep
Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States
The biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha are underway today, March 16, 2026, to fill 37 seats across 10 states. Voting began at 9 am, with the counting of votes scheduled for later in the day at 5 pm. The seats vacated by members from states such as Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana will be filled during this election. Out of the 37 seats, 26 candidates have already been elected unopposed, including me
Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States
The biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha are underway today, March 16, 2026, to fill 37 seats across 10 states. Voting began at 9 am, with the counting of votes scheduled for later in the day at 5 pm. The seats vacated by members from states such as Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana will be filled during this election. Out of the 37 seats, 26 candidates have already been elected unopposed, including me
Iran warship in Kochi after naval drills as US torpedo sinks IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka
India granted docking permission to Iranian naval vessels after their participation in multinational maritime events earlier this year, even as regional tensions escalated following a United States submarine strike that sank one of the ships near Sri Lanka. The Iranian vessels IRIS Lavan, IRIS Bushehr and IRIS Dena had taken part in the Milan 2026 multilateral naval exercise and the International Fleet Review held in Visakhapatnam in February. These events, which brought together navies from
Iran warship in Kochi after naval drills as US torpedo sinks IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka
India granted docking permission to Iranian naval vessels after their participation in multinational maritime events earlier this year, even as regional tensions escalated following a United States submarine strike that sank one of the ships near Sri Lanka. The Iranian vessels IRIS Lavan, IRIS Bushehr and IRIS Dena had taken part in the Milan 2026 multilateral naval exercise and the International Fleet Review held in Visakhapatnam in February. These events, which brought together navies from
Indian embassy shifts students from Tehran as Centre readies evacuation
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has relocated most Indian students from the Iranian capital to safer locations following escalating security concerns linked to the ongoing Iran crisis. In an advisory issued on March 3, the mission said the decision was taken due to a heightened risk perception in Tehran. The embassy arranged transport, food and accommodation for the students moved out of the city. A small number of students continue to remain in Tehran after declining the relocation offer. For Indian nationals still in Iran, the embassy has reiterated its advisory to stay indoors as far as possible, avoid windows and keep away from areas where protests or demonstrations may take place. Citizens have been urged to exercise caution, remain calm and maintain regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran while closely monitoring official updates. With an estimated 9,000 Indians, including many students, currently in Iran, concerns among families back home have grown. The Centre said it is closely monitoring developments across West Asia and coordinating with Indian missions in the Gulf to ensure the safety of stranded Indians. The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the evolving situation and directed all concerned departments to be prepared with an evacuation plan if required. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government stands ready to facilitate the safe return of Indians from the region. Gulf flights have been severely impacted by airspace closure and regional tensions. The civil aviation ministry said IndiGo plans to operate 10 special relief flights from Jeddah to Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad, subject to approvals. Air India has extended the suspension of several Middle East services, while Air India Express will resume limited operations to and from Muscat. Etihad and other international carriers are operating restricted services as conditions permit. Several state governments, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have activated helplines to assist residents affected by flight disruptions. Families in Uttar Pradesh and other states have reported intermittent contact with relatives in Iran, underscoring anxiety within the NRI community. Authorities have stressed that flight schedules remain fragile and subject to sudden change, even as India continues to scale up contingency measures to safeguard its citizens abroad.
Indian embassy shifts students from Tehran as Centre readies evacuation
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has relocated most Indian students from the Iranian capital to safer locations following escalating security concerns linked to the ongoing Iran crisis. In an advisory issued on March 3, the mission said the decision was taken due to a heightened risk perception in Tehran. The embassy arranged transport, food and accommodation for the students moved out of the city. A small number of students continue to remain in Tehran after declining the relocation offer. For Indian nationals still in Iran, the embassy has reiterated its advisory to stay indoors as far as possible, avoid windows and keep away from areas where protests or demonstrations may take place. Citizens have been urged to exercise caution, remain calm and maintain regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran while closely monitoring official updates. With an estimated 9,000 Indians, including many students, currently in Iran, concerns among families back home have grown. The Centre said it is closely monitoring developments across West Asia and coordinating with Indian missions in the Gulf to ensure the safety of stranded Indians. The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the evolving situation and directed all concerned departments to be prepared with an evacuation plan if required. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government stands ready to facilitate the safe return of Indians from the region. Gulf flights have been severely impacted by airspace closure and regional tensions. The civil aviation ministry said IndiGo plans to operate 10 special relief flights from Jeddah to Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad, subject to approvals. Air India has extended the suspension of several Middle East services, while Air India Express will resume limited operations to and from Muscat. Etihad and other international carriers are operating restricted services as conditions permit. Several state governments, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have activated helplines to assist residents affected by flight disruptions. Families in Uttar Pradesh and other states have reported intermittent contact with relatives in Iran, underscoring anxiety within the NRI community. Authorities have stressed that flight schedules remain fragile and subject to sudden change, even as India continues to scale up contingency measures to safeguard its citizens abroad.
Indians among travellers leaving Gulf as Iran strikes trigger security fears
Rising tensions in West Asia have triggered concern among Indian residents and travellers in Gulf countries after a series of Iranian missile and drone strikes targeted locations in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain over the weekend. The attacks, which hit areas long considered safe for business and tourism, have led to a sudden increase in people trying to leave the region, including Indian professionals, workers, and visitors. Travel operators and security agencies repo
Indians among travellers leaving Gulf as Iran strikes trigger security fears
Rising tensions in West Asia have triggered concern among Indian residents and travellers in Gulf countries after a series of Iranian missile and drone strikes targeted locations in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain over the weekend. The attacks, which hit areas long considered safe for business and tourism, have led to a sudden increase in people trying to leave the region, including Indian professionals, workers, and visitors. Travel operators and security agencies repo
Sanju Samson’s Redemption 97 Sends India Into T20 World Cup Semi-Finals
Sanju Samson finally delivered the performance that his talent always promised. Under immense pressure in a winner-takes-all Super Eights clash, the Indian opener struck a breathtaking unbeaten 97 to guide India into the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a five-wicket victory over West Indies in Kolkata. Chasing a challenging 196 at a packed Eden Gardens, India needed someone to absorb pressure and control the tempo. Samson did exactly that. His 50-ball knock, featuring 12 fours and fo
Sanju Samson’s Redemption 97 Sends India Into T20 World Cup Semi-Finals
Sanju Samson finally delivered the performance that his talent always promised. Under immense pressure in a winner-takes-all Super Eights clash, the Indian opener struck a breathtaking unbeaten 97 to guide India into the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a five-wicket victory over West Indies in Kolkata. Chasing a challenging 196 at a packed Eden Gardens, India needed someone to absorb pressure and control the tempo. Samson did exactly that. His 50-ball knock, featuring 12 fours and fo
Why Indian Insurance Is the Best Option for NRIs: Affordable, Tax-Efficient, and Convenient
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), purchasing health and term insurance in India presents an attractive option due to affordable premiums and extensive coverage. Indian insurance companies offer plans that are often more economical than those available in foreign countries, making them an ideal choice for NRIs who want to protect their families back home without overburdening their finances. These policies are customized to suit the needs of Indian families, offering high coverage at a fraction
Why Indian Insurance Is the Best Option for NRIs: Affordable, Tax-Efficient, and Convenient
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), purchasing health and term insurance in India presents an attractive option due to affordable premiums and extensive coverage. Indian insurance companies offer plans that are often more economical than those available in foreign countries, making them an ideal choice for NRIs who want to protect their families back home without overburdening their finances. These policies are customized to suit the needs of Indian families, offering high coverage at a fraction
Delhi Excise Policy Case: Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Receive Court Relief
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the controversial Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had failed to present substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders, effectively clearing them of the allegations. The court's decision highlighted the absence of material evidence to support the claim that Kejriwal played a central role in the alleged corruption surrounding the excise policy. The judge emphasized that such serious accusations, especially involving a prominent figure like the Chief Minister, required solid, verifiable evidence. Without this, the prosecution's claims could not be sustained. The court further noted that accepting unproven allegations could erode public trust in the office of the Chief Minister and in the political process as a whole. Manish Sisodia was also discharged by the court, which found that the prosecution's case did not hold up under judicial scrutiny. There was no evidence suggesting criminal intent on his part. The documents and statements related to the formulation of the excise policy were primarily administrative in nature and did not point to corruption or wrongdoing, weakening the prosecution's narrative. The prosecution’s conspiracy theory, which alleged an overarching plot involving both Kejriwal and Sisodia, was found to be lacking. The court identified internal contradictions within the claims and concluded that the policy formulation process had involved consultations at various government levels and institutional deliberations, none of which indicated illicit activity. This breakdown further undermined the prosecution's case. The court's ruling marks a major setback for the prosecution, underscoring the challenges in proving political and administrative corruption cases when key allegations lack corroborated evidence. The acquittals of Kejriwal and Sisodia raise questions about the strength of charges against political figures and the use of public office in such investigations. For Arvind Kejriwal, the discharge clears his name in this high-profile case, which has attracted significant attention from both political observers and the public. Kejriwal has long argued that the case against him was politically motivated, aimed at damaging the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) image ahead of elections. This ruling could prove to be a pivotal moment in his political career, potentially strengthening his position as a leader who has been unjustly targeted.
Delhi Excise Policy Case: Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Receive Court Relief
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the controversial Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had failed to present substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders, effectively clearing them of the allegations. The court's decision highlighted the absence of material evidence to support the claim that Kejriwal played a central role in the alleged corruption surrounding the excise policy. The judge emphasized that such serious accusations, especially involving a prominent figure like the Chief Minister, required solid, verifiable evidence. Without this, the prosecution's claims could not be sustained. The court further noted that accepting unproven allegations could erode public trust in the office of the Chief Minister and in the political process as a whole. Manish Sisodia was also discharged by the court, which found that the prosecution's case did not hold up under judicial scrutiny. There was no evidence suggesting criminal intent on his part. The documents and statements related to the formulation of the excise policy were primarily administrative in nature and did not point to corruption or wrongdoing, weakening the prosecution's narrative. The prosecution’s conspiracy theory, which alleged an overarching plot involving both Kejriwal and Sisodia, was found to be lacking. The court identified internal contradictions within the claims and concluded that the policy formulation process had involved consultations at various government levels and institutional deliberations, none of which indicated illicit activity. This breakdown further undermined the prosecution's case. The court's ruling marks a major setback for the prosecution, underscoring the challenges in proving political and administrative corruption cases when key allegations lack corroborated evidence. The acquittals of Kejriwal and Sisodia raise questions about the strength of charges against political figures and the use of public office in such investigations. For Arvind Kejriwal, the discharge clears his name in this high-profile case, which has attracted significant attention from both political observers and the public. Kejriwal has long argued that the case against him was politically motivated, aimed at damaging the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) image ahead of elections. This ruling could prove to be a pivotal moment in his political career, potentially strengthening his position as a leader who has been unjustly targeted.
Understanding RBI's Impact on Offshore Gifting and NRI Transactions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently imposed stricter regulations on offshore gifting, particularly for affluent Indian families sending substantial financial gifts to their children living abroad. These gifts are often used to support various needs, such as education, property purchases, or immigration investments, such as the U.S. EB-5 visa program. While the practice of offshore gifting has grown in popularity, the RBI has increased scrutiny, especially when these transactions invo
Understanding RBI's Impact on Offshore Gifting and NRI Transactions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently imposed stricter regulations on offshore gifting, particularly for affluent Indian families sending substantial financial gifts to their children living abroad. These gifts are often used to support various needs, such as education, property purchases, or immigration investments, such as the U.S. EB-5 visa program. While the practice of offshore gifting has grown in popularity, the RBI has increased scrutiny, especially when these transactions invo









