The Delhi Government has taken a call to strictly implement the decision not to allow petrol, diesel, and CNG to the vehicles without a valid “Pollution Under Control” Certificate at the fuel stations. The decision aims at ensuring control over vehicular pollution across the national capital.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said her government was committed to ensuring a clean and healthy environment and improving Delhi’s air quality through sustained and comprehensive measures. “Tackling air pollution requires firm and effective interventions. This decision is a crucial step in that direction,” she added, underlining the need for strict compliance.

Under Rule 115 (sub-rule 7) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, every vehicle must carry a valid PUC certificate after one year of registration and produce it on demand. However, it has been observed that a large number of vehicles continue to operate without valid certification, significantly aggravating pollution levels across the city.

CM Gupta pointed out that the Commission for Air Quality Management in Delhi and NCR region (CAQM), in its revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), has also mandated strict enforcement of PUC norms. According to her, the framework provides for stringent action against polluting vehicles, including seizure and the imposition of maximum penalties.
Going by the new directive, fuel will be supplied strictly and exclusively to vehicles holding a valid PUC certificate. Accountability has been clearly fixed across all concerned agencies to ensure zero tolerance in implementation. Hence, all the petrol pumps and gas outlets have been directed to comply with the order in letter and spirit, while all the departments concerned, including the civic body and the police have been tasked with ensuring rigorous enforcement of the directive.

Authorities have been warned that any lapse or negligence will invite strict action.
Emphasising that the government is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy to combat pollution, CM Gupta had said that controlling vehicular emissions remains a key priority, while she also urged residents to keep their PUC certificates updated at all times.

A young man from Khunti district in Jharkhand has been accused of killing snakes and wild animals and turning acts into online content for attention.

The story came out after several clips began circulating widely online, showing brutal scenes of animals being captured and killed. The Forest Department soon stepped in, registering a case and starting a detailed probe into what many are calling a dangerous chase for social media fame.

Viral videos expose shocking animal killings in Khunti

According to officials, the trouble began when an Instagram account started posting disturbing videos on a regular basis. The clips allegedly showed a youth catching and killing wild animals, including a Russell’s viper, which is known as one of the most venomous snakes in India.

The videos also reportedly featured the Indian rock python and several protected bird species.

The content did not stop at killing. Some of the videos also showed the accused cooking and eating the animals’ meat, making the situation even more serious for authorities.

Repeated posting of such content raised red flags among viewers and eventually reached animal rights activists.

Concerned by nature of videos, activists filed formal complaints with both the Khunti police and Forest Department. Following complaints and verification, officials identified accused as Lutar Purti.

Also Read: ‘Spiked drink, no Wi-Fi for 3 days’: US tourist alleges sexual assault at Coorg homestay; 2 arrested

Case was registered against him and he was taken into custody for questioning by Forest Department officials.

Authorities confirmed that several animals shown in videos fall under protected categories under Indian wildlife laws. Hunting, killing, harming such species is considered serious legal offence, and strict punishment can follow under wildlife protection rules.

Officials also said that the investigation is ongoing and further action will be taken based on evidence collected.

Family claims mental illness as investigation continues

As the case gained attention, the family members of Lutar Purti approached the Forest Department with a different explanation. They claimed that he is mentally disturbed and requested leniency.

The family also said that after consuming snake meat, he had fallen seriously ill. Along with their appeal, they submitted an apology on his behalf and asked for medical treatment instead of strict punishment.

After initial questioning, the youth was released on a bond. However, officials made it clear that he must cooperate with the investigation and will have to appear whenever summoned by authorities.

Meanwhile, animal rights activists have strongly reacted to the incident. They said treating the killing of animals as entertainment for likes and views is not only disturbing but also a dangerous sign of how social media obsession can go too far. According to them, such acts promote cruelty and encourage illegal wildlife harm under the guise of online popularity.

Forest Department officials have stated that the matter is being taken very seriously. They assured that the investigation will continue and that action will be taken strictly according to the law.

With inputs from IANS.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday commemorated the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its anniversary, honouring those who lost their lives and reaffirming India’s steadfast resolve to combat terrorism.

In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister said, “Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss.”

Reflecting the nation’s collective grief and determination, he added, “As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed.”

The Pahalgam terror attack last year had sent shockwaves across the country, claiming several innocent lives and drawing condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum. The attack, which targeted civilians in the popular tourist hub of Jammu and Kashmir, had raised fresh concerns over security in the region and led to intensified counter-terror operations.

In the aftermath, the government has consistently underscored its zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, with a focus on dismantling terror networks and strengthening security mechanisms, particularly in sensitive areas like Jammu and Kashmir.

On the anniversary, tributes poured in from across the country, as leaders and citizens alike remembered the victims and stood in solidarity with their families. The Prime Minister’s message captured the shared sentiment of remembrance while reinforcing India’s firm resolve to counter terrorism in all its forms.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday paid tribute to those killed in the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, remembering the victims and asserting that India would remain united and resolute against terrorism.

In a post on X marking the anniversary of the attack, Gandhi said, “I pay my heartfelt tribute to all the brave martyrs who lost their lives in the cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam last year.” Emphasising accountability and remembrance, he added, “India will neither forget their sacrifice nor the pain of their families, and will never forgive those responsible for this heinous act.”

Reflecting on the emotional impact of the tragedy, he said the memory of innocent lives lost continues to shake the nation’s conscience, adding that the grief of the families is shared by the entire country. He noted that the sacrifice of those killed would remain forever etched in the soul of India.

Reiterating the country’s collective stance, Gandhi said the nation has always stood united against terrorism and violence and would continue to do so. He underscored the need for resilience, asserting that India would never bow before forces that spread hatred and fear, but instead confront them with greater strength, unity, and resolve.

The 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, which targeted civilians at a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir, had triggered widespread outrage and led to intensified counter-terror operations. Its anniversary has been marked by tributes from leaders across political parties, with many reaffirming solidarity with the victims’ families and the nation’s commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms.

Keeping up the pressure, a high-level BJP delegation comprising Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Kiren Rijiju, and Arjun Ram Meghwal the Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday over Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s “terrorist” remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding strict action.

Rijiju said no political party had ever stooped to such a level of “disrespect” and asserted that Kharge should apologise to the nation. “It is a national and democratic issue. Calling the Prime Minister a terrorist is a crime. No political party has used such abusive language against a sitting PM,” he said, adding that the BJP had urged the EC to take stringent action.

Such remarks were not merely political but “despicable acts” that weaken democracy, he said, adding that the EC assured “appropriate action.”

“The investigation is the EC’s domain, but terrorists who fight against the country will be eliminated under the leadership of PM Modi—who has now been called a terrorist. The public will punish the Congress,” he also said

The controversy erupted days before polling in Tamil Nadu, when Kharge questioned the AIADMK’s alliance with PM Modi and referred to him as a “terrorist.”

The remark drew sharp reactions from the BJP, with leaders calling it a new low in political discourse. Amid the backlash, Kharge clarified that he did not mean the term literally but was referring to what he described as the Prime Minister’s political style—alleging that central agencies like the Income Tax Department and Enforcement Directorate were used to “terrorise” opponents. He questioned how AIADMK could align with the BJP under such circumstances.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal accused Congress of insulting the “140 crore people” who elected Modi, while MP Sambit Patra said such remarks had always been met with strong responses from the public. Home Minister Amit Shah termed the comment “highly condemnable,” saying it insulted not only the Prime Minister but also millions who support him. “Every time Congress abuses Modi, it is the people of India who respond,” he said.

Historically, personal attacks on Modi have often backfired on the Congress.

In 2007, Sonia Gandhi’s “maut ka saudagar” remark was widely seen as helping Modi consolidate support in Gujarat. Mani Shankar Aiyar’s “neech aadmi” comment was reframed by the BJP as an insult to Modi’s humble background, while the 2019 “chowkidar chor hai” slogan triggered the BJP’s counter-campaign, “Main Bhi Chowkidar.”

Analysts say such remarks enable the BJP to frame criticism as an attack on a “self-made” leader or even the nation, strengthening a “victim narrative.” However, critics argue that these controversies divert attention from real issues like unemployment, inflation, and rural distress.

It is a moment of immense pride for Springdales School, Dhaula Kuan that it has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and future-ready education with an outstanding performance at the prestigious Delhi AI Grind 2026–27, a city-wide initiative organised by the Department of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi.

A team of the school comprising Saion Gupta, Khwahish Sethi, Abhimanyu Gupta, and Hridik Sabharwal emerged among the district-level winners. Their project, “SENSE”, an AI-powered system for monitoring air and water quality, earned them a place among the top 60 teams in Delhi.

They will now advance to the state-level stage, where they will receive specialised mentorship and technical support to further develop their innovation.

The six-month-long initiative, aimed at fostering awareness and application of Artificial Intelligence, saw enthusiastic participation from students through quizzes, prototyping, exhibitions, and a special assembly. Guided by Aparojito Bose, Administrative Manager, along with teacher mentors, the programme nurtured curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking amongst the young innovators.

This achievement brings pride to the institution and highlights the vital role of young innovators in building a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

Amid the ongoing West Asia crisis leading to disruptions in the global economy, Moody’s Ratings has downgraded India’s growth forecast for FY27 to 6 per cent from 6.8 per cent estimated earlier.

The credit rating agency has cited weaker consumption and industrial activity amid elevated energy prices and rising input costs following the Middle East conflict.

In a report titled, “Middle East Conflict – India: Energy shock fuels external, inflationary and sectoral risks”, Moody’s said, “In light of India’s economic exposure to the military conflict in the Middle East, we expect real GDP growth to ease to 6 per cent in fiscal 2026–27, from an earlier projection of 6.8 per cent, driven by more subdued private consumption and softer industrial activity amid elevated energy prices and higher input costs.”

Moody’s said higher energy costs are expected to push up inflation and strain fiscal balances, as the government may need to increase spending on fuel and fertiliser subsidies.

“Fertilizer and cooking gas shortages will constrain agricultural activity and household consumption, key components of India’s economy,” it said.

As a major importer of crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), India remains vulnerable to sustained price pressures.

At the sectoral level, Moody’s said the oil marketing companies (OMCs) and fuel-dependent industries are expected to be the most affected.

State-run OMCs are incurring under-recoveries of Rs 15–20 billion per day, with a combined EBITDA of about Rs 900 billion in FY25, as higher crude costs are not fully passed on to consumers.

Moody’s said India retains buffers in the form of strong services exports, sizable foreign exchange reserves, and a stable domestic funding base, although a prolonged period of high energy prices could test macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.

The report further highlighted that the energy-intensive sectors like cement, chemicals, and fertilisers are also likely to face rising input and logistics costs, while gas supply disruptions have led to rationing in some cases.

Airlines face a dual shock from higher jet fuel prices and disruptions to international routes, with temporary domestic price caps offering limited and uncertain relief.

Recently, the United Nations has also revised India’s growth outlook saying the country is projected to grow at 6.4 per cent this year and 6.6 per cent in 2027. Inflation for the country is projected to be 4.4 per cent this year and 4.3 per cent in 2027.

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) said in a report that the economies in South and South-West Asia grew by 5.4 per cent in 2025, compared to 5.2 per cent in 2024, driven largely by strong growth in India.

India’s growth edged up to 7.4 per cent in 2025, supported by robust consumption, especially from the rural economy along with goods and services tax rate cuts, and export frontloading ahead of the United States’ tariffs, the report said.

The results of Asia’s biggest high school and intermediate examinations, conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Higher Secondary Board, will be announced at the UP Board’s Prayagraj headquarters.

The UP Board examinations were conducted from February 18 to March 12.

Board’s Secretary Bhagwati Singh on Wednesday announced that the results of both high school and intermediate would be announced at 4 pm tomorrow.

In the 2026 UP Board examination, 53,37,778 candidates appeared for the examination, including 27,61,696 in high school and 25,76,082 in intermediate.

The UP Board had made extensive arrangements for a fair, fair and transparent examination without cheating. The high school and intermediate examinations were completed in 15 working days.

The 2026 UP Board exams were held at 8,033 centers across the state.

Ranveer Singh seems to be living in two very different movie plots at the same time. One full of confetti and box-office fireworks, and the other loaded with legal whispers, negotiations, and industry gossip. While the actor celebrates a roaring professional high and a happy update at home, the unresolved ‘Don 3’ drama is quietly simmering again.

Here’s the full scoop.

Blockbuster success and baby news set the mood

Ranveer Singh is currently enjoying a golden run. His latest release, director Aditya Dhar’s spy thriller ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’, has turned into a massive hit. The film has emerged as the highest-grossing Hindi film at the domestic box office and has also climbed to the third spot among the highest-grossing Indian films worldwide. That alone would be enough to keep any actor smiling for weeks.

But the good news does not stop there. On the personal front, Ranveer and Deepika Padukone recently announced that they are expecting their second child. The pregnancy news dropped earlier this week and instantly added to the celebratory vibe surrounding the actor.

However, just when the celebrations were at their peak, fresh updates about the ongoing ‘Don 3’ controversy started doing the rounds again.

Reports claim settlement, but confusion follows

Several media reports suggested that Ranveer’s long-standing dispute with Excel Entertainment headed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani had finally been settled. According to these reports, the actor and the production house had reached an amicable agreement months after his exit from ‘Don 3’, a film that had already generated significant buzz.

A report by Free Press Journal claimed that Ranveer had agreed to compensate Excel Entertainment for pre-production expenses. The figure mentioned in the report was Rs 10 crore.

Also Read: ‘If people didn’t like it, I’m sorry’: Akshay Kumar defends controversial fake moustache in ‘Samrat Prithviraj’

In addition to the payment, the report also stated that Ranveer was ready to offer the production house an undisclosed stake in his upcoming big-budget project, Jai Mehta’s zombie apocalypse film ‘Pralay’, which is expected to begin filming later this year.

The narrative sounded like a tidy resolution. Money paid, partnership offered, and the matter closed. But that version of events did not last long.

A fresh report by Screen quoted a source from Excel Entertainment denying these claims outright. According to the source, the situation has not changed at all. While there is hope that things might eventually get resolved, especially since more than a month has passed since ‘Dhurandhar 2’ released, negotiations are still ongoing. The insider added that there has been no concrete progress so far.

‘Pralay’ involvement also denied as talks continue

Adding another twist, a source associated with the upcoming film ‘Pralay’ dismissed reports that Excel Entertainment would be involved in the project. The film, which has not yet been officially announced, is reportedly shaping up under a different arrangement altogether.

According to the insider, Ranveer is likely to step into production himself under his new banner, Maa Kasam Films. The same source claimed that ‘Pralay’ is currently backed by Sameer Nair’s Applause Entertainment and Hansal Mehta’s True Story Films. This contradicts earlier reports suggesting Excel Entertainment’s stake in the project as part of the settlement.

For context, Ranveer exited ‘Don 3’ earlier this year, shortly after ‘Dhurandhar’ became a blockbuster. Reports indicated that the decision stemmed from creative disagreements over the script.

Following his exit, the actor reportedly shifted focus to completing patchwork on ‘Dhurandhar 2’. Excel Entertainment, however, sought compensation, citing extensive pre-production work that had already begun with Ranveer’s approval. The production house eventually filed a legal suit against him.

So while Ranveer celebrates career highs and prepares for fatherhood again, the ‘Don 3’ chapter is far from closed.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav on Tuesday announced the designation of Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh as a Ramsar site, taking India’s total to 99 and the state’s tally to 12.

“Uttar Pradesh takes the score to 99! Delighted to announce the designation of Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) as a Ramsar site”, the Minister said in a social media post.

He said the announcement brings a boost for local livelihoods and global biodiversity, along with water and climate security and marks “India’s 99th, bringing us closer to a historic century”.

“With PM Shri @narendramodi ji leading India’s ecosystem restoration mission, our commitment towards conservation of wetlands and natural habitat of animals, particularly that of birds, has yet again received a thumbs up from the global community,” the Minister added.

Highlighting the ecological importance of the site, Yadav said Shekha Jheel acts as a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway, providing a vital habitat for migratory birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork and various ducks during the winter season. The Minister also encouraged people to visit the site.

The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Dhanalekshmi DL-49 lottery draw. The lucky draw was held at Gorky Bhavan, near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram, at 3 pm.

The first prize is 1 crore. The second prize is 30 lakh, followed by a third prize of 5 lakh.

The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the prize structure for today’s lottery draw, offering rewards ranging from ₹200 to a top prize of Rs 1 Crore. Kerala Lottery continues to remain one of the most popular government-backed lottery systems in India, attracting lakhs of participants every day.

Check Kerala Lottery Result: Dhanalekshmi DL-49 lottery draw

First prize: 1 cr – DE 555400 (Cons prize: 5,000 for remaining all series)
Second prize: 30 lakh – DG 886498
Third prize: 5 lakh – DJ 627205
Fourth prize: Rs 5,000 (20) – 0326, 0380, 1569, 3132, 3554, 3610, 4193, 4532, 4824, 5617, 6464, 6648, 7116, 8474, 8849, 9084, 9302, 9787, 9834.
Fifth prize: Rs 2,000 (6) – 1002, 3039, 3992, 4085, 5712, 6472.
Sixth prize: Rs 1,000 (25) – 0212, 1121, 2646, 2656, 2748, 3147, 3364, 3483, 3837, 3948, 4063, 4505, 4750, 4803, 4879, 4897, 5163, 5543, 6589, 6893, 8201, 8457, 8528, 8864, 9757

Seventh prize: Rs 500 (76) – 0166, 0219, 0222, 0224, 0265, 0364, 0442, 0574, 0601, 0802, 0978, 1057, 1455, 1531, 1650, 1707, 1857, 1864, 1982, 2103, 2247, 2351, 2463, 2532, 2600, 2609, 3144, 3237, 3282, 3412, 3565, 3662, 3696, 3744, 3749, 3958, 4114, 4153, 4331, 4622, 4724, 5021, 5030, 5106, 5260, 5268, 5315, 5330, 5380, 5530, 5598, 5692, 5830, 5841, 5970, 6733, 6782, 7095, 7456, 7572, 7839, 7985, 8070, 8096, 8149, 8292, 8698, 8737, 8779, 8797, 9061, 9519, 9548, 9601, 9662, 9801

Eighth prize: Rs 200 (96) – 0021, 0157, 0180, 0294, 0467, 0887, 0968, 1068, 1148, 1156, 1158, 1182, 1189, 1230, 1244, 1352, 1627, 1847, 1962, 2251, 2321, 2406, 2560, 2582, 2947, 3092, 3109, 3136, 3211, 3344, 3405, 3408, 3497, 3543, 3595, 3613, 3636, 3716, 3945, 3957, 4202, 4222, 4270, 4289, 4304, 4358, 4457, 4576, 4740, 5171, 5223, 5471, 5591, 5630, 5952, 6023, 6082, 6182, 6259, 6344, 6552, 6563, 6873, 6888, 7003, 7066, 7156, 7374, 7540, 7654, 7689, 7697, 7730, 7837, 8087, 8187, 8216, 8361, 8530, 8537, 8578, 8733, 8735, 8756, 8761, 8830, 8925, 8939, 8977, 9180, 9261, 9370, 9612, 9622, 9789, 9937 Ninth prize: 100 0005, 0149, 0162, 0207, 0337, 0432, 0554, 0555, 0619, 0624, 0646, 0656, 0682, 0698, 0729, 0742, 0785, 0819, 0821, 0889, 0912, 1031, 1081, 1107, 1126, 1377, 1421, 1430, 1508, 1660, 1860, 2035, 2116, 2127, 2183, 2238, 2422, 2521, 2607, 2728, 2786, 2844, 2893, 2993, 3066, 3069, 3110, 3181, 3200, 3325, 3396, 3468, 3623, 3633, 3658, 3688, 3739, 3843, 3942, 3986, 4061, 4072, 4080, 4090, 4175, 4209, 4430, 4445, 4493, 4508, 4524, 4603, 4725, 4748, 4957, 4966, 5003, 5045, 5240, 5263, 5299, 5308, 5361, 5386, 5539, 5646, 5756, 5811, 5893, 5966, 5972, 6012, 6031, 6058, 6219, 6236, 6282, 6471, 6591, 6646, 6720, 6745, 6968, 7115, 7242, 7322, 7470, 7664, 7708, 7748, 7767, 7904, 8077, 8124, 8202, 8212, 8272, 8275, 8279, 8589, 8612, 8757, 8956, 9032, 9181, 9413, 9440, 9661, 9705, 9747, 9755, 9828, 9844, 9865, 9926, 9930, 9965, 9968

How to Claim Your Kerala Lottery Prize

For prizes below ₹5,000: Can be collected from any authorized lottery shop

For prizes above ₹5,000: Submit ticket at bank or government lottery office
Carry valid ID proof

Important Deductions: Before claiming your winnings, keep this in mind:

1. 30 percent tax is deducted by the government
2. 10 percent agent commission also applies

Final payout will be after these deductions.

Different Kerala Lottery Schemes: Kerala offers multiple lottery formats, including:

1. Fifty-Fifty
2. Win-Win
3. Sthree Sakthi
4. Akshaya
5. Karunya & Karunya Plus
6. Nirmal
7. Bhagyamithra Monthly Lottery
8. Bumper Lotteries (Vishu, Onam, Christmas, etc.)

These schemes provide varied prize structures and winning chances.

How to Check Results Online:
– Visit official Kerala Lottery website only
– Select the lottery name
– Choose the draw date
– Match your ticket number

Warning on Online Ticket Sales
– Kerala Lottery tickets are NOT sold online
– Any online sale is illegal
– Legal action can be taken against violators

When audiences first saw Akshay Kumar as the legendary warrior king in Samrat Prithviraj, it wasn’t just the battles that grabbed attention. It was… the moustache. Yes, that controversial, much-debated, very noticeable fake moustache. Social media erupted, fans argued, critics questioned. And now, years later, Akshay is finally clearing the air in his own calm, slightly apologetic style.

Speaking candidly on a podcast shared on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel, the actor addressed the backlash and explained why the much-talked-about look wasn’t about laziness or lack of commitment but simply practicality.

The moustache that sparked a debate

When the historical drama released in 2022, viewers expected complete authenticity especially since Akshay was portraying the iconic ruler Prithviraj Chauhan. But instead of applause, many reactions focused on how artificial the moustache looked.

Some viewers even questioned whether the actor had put in enough effort for such an important historical role.

Also Read: Dhurandhar documentary: Aditya Dhar plans explosive BTS film after ₹3000 crore franchise frenzy

The criticism spread quickly, with fans comparing his look to traditional depictions of the king and demanding more realism. For many, the moustache became symbolic of what they felt was a lack of detailing in the film’s visual authenticity.

The discussion refused to die down and remained one of the most talked-about aspects of the movie long after its release.

Akshay explains what really happened

Now, Akshay says there was a very practical reason behind the decision. He clarified that he does grow facial hair for roles and even cited a recent example. According to him, he spent around six weeks growing a beard and during that time, he didn’t take on any work.
However, the moustache required for ‘Samrat Prithviraj’ was extremely specific. The actor admitted that the exact style demanded by the character simply could not grow naturally on his face. That left the team with limited options and they chose a prosthetic moustache.

He acknowledged that the result didn’t work for everyone. In fact, he openly said that maybe it didn’t look good and that many people didn’t like it. But he also emphasised that acting sometimes involves compromises. Not every physical transformation can be achieved naturally, and in those cases, artificial additions become necessary.

He ended his explanation with a brief apology, saying that if audiences didn’t like the look, he was sorry.

About ‘Samrat Prithviraj’

Released on June 3, 2022, ‘Samrat Prithviraj’ was directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi and produced by Yash Raj Films. The movie explored the life and battles of Prithviraj Chauhan and aimed to bring the legendary warrior’s story to a wider audience.

Alongside Akshay Kumar, the film featured Manushi Chhillar, Sanjay Dutt and Sonu Sood in key roles. Despite its ambitious scale and historical theme, the moustache controversy remained one of the most widely discussed talking points.

Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha is smiling, but also thinking hard. His latest film ‘Assi’ has landed on ZEE5, and the reactions have been loud, emotional, and sometimes even confusing. Messages, DMs, reels, and reviews, everything is pouring in. And somewhere between applause and hesitation, Sinha is trying to decode what really happened.

The filmmaker in a recent India Today interview opened up about love, the mixed theatre turnout, the impact of reviews, and why he still wants to keep making such films, even when the road is tough.

Also Read: Assi OTT release: Here is when and where you can watch Taapsee Pannu, Kani Kusruti’s courtroom drama by Anubhav Sinha

A flood of love… and unexpected intensity

Sinha revealed that he has been overwhelmed by the response since the film premiered on April 17. But the way people express appreciation has changed. Instead of letters or phone calls, he is now receiving Instagram reels, direct messages, and social media reactions. He joked that “the mode of message transport has changed,” but said the medium does not matter as long as the sentiment is positive.

He admitted that he expected the film to spark conversations, much like his earlier film ‘Thappad’. According to him, the purpose of making such films is not to give answers but to raise questions.

He believes society often understands issues better than filmmakers, and when people talk about them, they eventually discover both questions and solutions.

Still, the intensity of reactions surprised him. Sinha said he wanted the film to affect viewers, but the emotional impact went far beyond his expectations. The discussions became deeper, more personal, and more widespread than he had imagined.

He also addressed the idea that audiences may not be ready for layered storytelling. Sinha strongly disagreed, saying viewers are often underestimated. He pointed out that Indian cinema has always supported diverse storytelling. He cited filmmakers like Prakash Mehra, Manmohan Desai, Govind Nihalani, Shyam Benegal, and Basu Chatterjee, all of whom thrived at the same time despite making very different kinds of cinema.

Theatre footfalls: hope, reality, and a little disappointment

While the appreciation was strong, Sinha admitted that he had hoped for better turnout in theatres. He described commercial success as very important, especially for films like this that are difficult to make and consume. Such films, he said, are harder to execute financially, but that is a choice he willingly makes.

He used a poetic analogy to explain his expectations. You aim for the moon, he said, even while knowing you might not reach it. But in this case, the film did not even achieve what he considered “adequate” footfalls. It did not become luxurious in terms of audience numbers, and it also fell short of what he thought was sufficient.

However, he did highlight a positive figure. More than 1.2 million people watched the film in theatres. He called that encouraging, even if it did not match his initial hopes.

Sinha also reflected on changing habits. According to him, theatre-going itself has reduced because it has become less convenient. He compared it to changing retail patterns, noting that people now have easier options at home. Streaming, comfort, and convenience are all influencing how audiences choose what to watch and where.

Reviews: praise that helped… and words that scared viewers

One of the most interesting points Sinha made was about reviews. He believes they played a big role in shaping the film’s theatrical performance. Many critics praised the film but used words like “disturbing” or “a punch in the gut.” While these were meant as compliments, Sinha feels they may have discouraged some viewers.

He also noted that audience reactions had a similar effect. People came out of theatres saying things like “it’s not for everyone” or advising sensitive viewers to avoid it. These comments, he said, unintentionally worked against the film by making it seem intimidating.

At the same time, not all buzz was negative. Positive phrases like “important watch,” “important story,” and strong praise for performances did attract viewers. So the film experienced a push-and-pull effect. Appreciation drew people in, while warnings made others stay away.

Sinha explained that reviews matter more for films like this than for mainstream entertainers. Big commercial films often survive mixed reviews, but for content-driven cinema, audiences rely heavily on critics and early reactions before deciding to buy a ticket.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy on Wednesday claimed to have seized two cargo vessels, the MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, for attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz “without the necessary permits.”

In a statement shared by semi-official Tasnim News, the IRGC Navy alleged that the ships were tampering with maritime navigation systems when intercepted, adding that they were directed towards the Iranian coast.

“Two vessels violating regulations — MSC FRANCESCA (linked to the Zionist regime) and EPAMINONDAS — which endangered maritime security by operating without authorization and tampering with maritime navigation systems, were intercepted by the IRGC Navy and directed toward the Iranian coast,” the Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said in the statement.

The IRGC Naval Command further added: “Disrupting the order and security of the Strait of Hormuz is our red line.”

According to reports, EPAMINONDES is a Liberia flagged ship that was headed to Gujarat from Jebel Ali in Dubai.

This follows earlier reports about two container ships being attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. The ships were targeted as part of an enforcement operation by Iranian authorities, according to Tasnim News.

The development comes amid the growing uncertainty over the second round of peace talks between the US and Iran.

Despite the extension of the ceasefire, Iran has been firm on its stand, saying talks with the US will be held only when rational conditions exist.

Amid US President Donald Trump’s threats that he will order the bombing of Iran if the deal is not signed, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei today said that Tehran stands ready to defend itself militarily.

He, however, added that the Islamic Republic was open to the prospect of further talks provided rational conditions exist.

According to the official IRNA news agency, Baghaei said that Iran will negotiate “whenever we conclude that the necessary and rational conditions exist to use this tool to achieve national interests.”

Ceasefire extended

Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Trump has agreed to extend the ceasefire, which was about to expire today.

“On my personal behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course,” Sharif said on X.

He further added, “With the trust and confidence reposed in us, Pakistan shall continue its earnest efforts for a negotiated settlement of the conflict. I sincerely hope that both sides will continue to observe the ceasefire and be able to conclude a comprehensive ‘Peace Deal’ during the second round of talks scheduled in Islamabad for a permanent end to the conflict.”

A new research by Patanjali Research Foundation has highlighted the potential benefits of yoga, naturopathy, and Ayurveda in improving glycemic control and overall well-being among patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM).

The study, titled “Impact of Integrative Therapies on Glycemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Global Research Landscape”, has been published in the journal Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare.

The research was led by Acharya Balkrishna along with researchers from the Patanjali Herbal Research Division and the University of Patanjali in Haridwar, Uttarakhand.

During the study, yoga demonstrated its advantages in enhancing nerve conductionand cognitive functions in diabetic patients, thereby aiding in theeffective management of diabetic complications.

“Yoga has been observed to enhance insulin sensitivity in target tissues, therebyreducing insulin resistance and boosting the peripheral utilization ofglucose. Additionally, it can rejuvenate or regenerate pancreatic b-cellsand heighten the sensitivity of these cells to glucose signals,” the study claimed.

The researchers analysed 612 scientific records from data bases including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar. “Out of these, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria for detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis.”

Some Ayurvedic herbs and supplements that have been studied for potential benefits in managing blood sugar levels include cinnamon, fenugreek, Aloe vera and bittermelon. They were found to be beneficial in managing the Tyoe 1 diabetes.

The study concluded that Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a complex, multifaceted disease and traditional insulin therapy is essential for managing blood glucose levels and preventing complications.

However, it added, integrating complementary therapies including dietary modifications, exercise, and mind-body practices like yoga and meditation has shown promise in supporting traditional treatments and enhancing quality of life for individuals with T1DM.

“Emerging research suggests that these holistic approaches may improve glycemic control, reducestress, and enhance overall well-being, offering potential benefitsthat go beyond conventional treatment alone. As the evidence for integrated therapies grows, healthcare providers have the opportunity to empower patients with more comprehensive, personalized management strategies that align with individual lifestyles and preferences.”

“This integrated approach not only aims to optimize clinical outcomes but also fosters patient engagement and resilience,paving the way for a more sustainable and effective management framework for T1DM in the future,” the study noted.

The results for today’s Shillong Teer lottery have been announced, with participants eagerly checking their lucky numbers from across Meghalaya.

Organised by the Khasi Hills Archery Sports Association, the Teer lottery continues to attract thousands daily, blending traditional archery with a unique gaming format.

Shillong Teer Winning Numbers (April 22, 2026)
Shillong Teer
– First Round: 46
– Second Round: Awaited

Khanapara Teer
– First Round: 56
– Second Round: Awaited

Juwai Teer
– First Round: 86
– Second Round: Awaited

Morning Teer Results
Shillong Morning Teer
– First Round: 91
– Second Round: 19

Juwai Morning Teer
– First Round: 61
– Second Round: 04

Night Teer First Round Result and Second Round Result is expected to be released on 8:15 PM and 9:00 PM

Results will be updated after official declaration.

What Makes Shillong Teer Unique?
Shillong Teer is not a typical lottery –  it is based on live archery:
Archers shoot 30 arrows in Round 1
20 arrows in Round 2
Players guess total hits (0–99)

The final number depends on:
Accuracy of archers
Number of arrows hitting the target

Cultural Significance: Shillong Teer is more than a lottery:
– Preserves traditional archery heritage
– Supports local communities
– Remains a key part of Meghalaya’s daily life

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her alleged obstruction during an Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid at Trinamool Congress political consultancy firm I-PAC founder Pratik Jain’s Kolkata residence in January this year.

The court held that a chief minister cannot storm the premises in the midst of an investigation and asserted that the Bengal CM’s actions put democracy in jeopardy.

“This is, per se, an action by an individual who happens to be the CM who has used the entire system to put democracy in jeopardy,” the top court told Banerjee.

Hearing the ED’s plea seeking registration of a CBI FIR against CM Banerjee and the State Police Officials for allegedly obstructing the agency’s raid, a bench of Justices PK Mishra and NV Anjaria said that when a CM walks into ED inquiry, it is not a Centre vs State matter.

“What right of the state does this involve? This is not a dispute between the state and the central government. You cannot walk in. Any Chief Minister of any state walks in the midst of an inquiry of an investigation and you say that it is a dispute essentially between the state and the central government?” the bench remarked.

The apex court also deprecated the alleged ‘gherao’ of judicial officers deputed in the state for the SIR exercise.

Terming the current socio-political realities in the poll-bound state an “extra-ordinary situation”, the bench told the counsels arguing on behalf of the West Bengal administration, which includes CM Mamata Banerjee and other senior officials, that they may argue on abstract legal principles but the Court cannot shut its eyes to the practical realities going on in the State.

“This is an extraordinary situation. Before the other Bench (referring to the gherao in the SIR case), we have seen that several judicial officers have been kept hostage. We cannot shut our eyes to realities. You may argue abstract legal principles, but we cannot lose sight of the practical situation occurring in the State”, the Court remarked.

The matter has been listed for further hearing on Thursday.