The successful on-screen pairing of Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya is returning with Epic: First Semester, their first collaboration after the blockbuster Baby. Directed by Aditya Hasan, the youthful entertainer has completed production, and the makers have officially announced that it will hit theatres worldwide on September 11, 2026. The release announcement was shared with the message that every beautiful journey begins with the simplest moments.

Produced jointly by Sithara Entertainments, Srikara Studios and Fortune Four Cinemas, the film is backed by producers Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya, with music composed by Azeem Mohammed. The massive success of Baby has created strong expectations for this reunion, making Epic one of the most anticipated youthful entertainers scheduled for release later this year.

An old interview of actress Sobhita Dhulipala has resurfaced on social media, bringing renewed attention to her political views. During the interview, recorded around the promotional period of the film Goodachari nearly eight years ago, Sobhita said she held strong political opinions, identified herself as a leftist and expressed her belief that communism would one day prevail. The clip has recently gained widespread traction online despite having received little attention when it was first released.

The resurfaced video has sparked a wave of discussion across social media platforms, with users expressing differing opinions on her remarks. While some have voiced support for her views, others have disagreed with her political stance. The renewed interest highlights how older celebrity interviews can resurface and generate fresh public debate years after they were originally recorded.

England wrapped up the T20I series in emphatic fashion by defeating India by 56 runs in the fifth match at Southampton. Jos Buttler smashed 131 off 64 balls, while Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 95 from 45 deliveries as the pair added a record 233-run partnership for the second wicket. England posted 257 for 3, with India's bowlers struggling throughout the innings before the visitors were restricted to 201 for 8 despite half-centuries from Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma.

The comprehensive defeat sealed a 4-0 series sweep for England and intensified scrutiny over India's recent performances under new captain Shreyas Iyer. Media reports have suggested that the BCCI could review the team's performances following the disappointing tour, although no official confirmation has been issued. Reports have also claimed that India surrendered the top spot in the ICC T20I team rankings after a long stay at No. 1, adding to the significance of the defeat.

Justin Greaves etched his name into Test cricket history with an extraordinary spell during the first Test against Pakistan at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad. Bowling five consecutive maiden overs, Greaves claimed one wicket in each over without conceding a single run, becoming the first player in the 149-year history of Test cricket to achieve the remarkable feat. He dismissed Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan, Aamir Jamal, Ali Usman and Mohammad Abbas in his record-breaking spell.

Greaves finished with figures of 5 for 27 from 11 overs, registering the first five-wicket haul of his Test career. His performance surpassed Stuart Broad's previous record of taking four wickets in four consecutive maiden overs against South Africa in 2016. After the match, Greaves credited West Indies captain Roston Chase for encouraging him to maintain disciplined lines and lengths, a strategy that helped bowl Pakistan out for 282 and give the hosts a 29-run first-innings lead.

Ajit Agarkar's future as India's chief selector has come under fresh speculation, with media reports claiming that the BCCI is considering appointing former India batter VVS Laxman to the role after Agarkar's tenure ends in September. Laxman, who currently heads the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, is reportedly being viewed as a candidate capable of strengthening coordination between the selection committee, team management and senior players. The board has not officially confirmed any decision.

The reports follow recent discussions surrounding selection decisions during India's England tour, particularly over Rohit Sharma's ODI future. Conflicting public statements from the selection committee and BCCI officials sparked debate over internal communication, prompting speculation about possible structural changes. If appointed, Laxman would be expected to work closely with head coach Gautam Gambhir and senior players as India prepares for upcoming international assignments.

Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin was taken into custody from his Chennai residence after an FIR was registered over remarks he made during a protest on the Cauvery water dispute. The case includes multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, the Information Technology Act and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act. He was later released on station bail, but the action has become one of the most debated political developments in Tamil Nadu ahead of the Assembly session.

The controversy began after Udhayanidhi made a remark during a protest that drew criticism from political parties and sections of the public, shifting attention away from the Cauvery issue itself. The ruling TVK government maintains that the law is being followed, while the Opposition has questioned the timing and intent behind the police action. The incident has further intensified the political rivalry between Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Five-time World Championships medallist PV Sindhu will open her 2026 BWF World Championships campaign against Ireland's Sophia Noble in the round of 64. Seeded ninth, Sindhu will be aiming to add a sixth World Championships medal to her remarkable collection, which already includes one gold, two silver and two bronze medals. In the men's singles, 14th seed Lakshya Sen will take on Austria's Collins Valentine, while unseeded Ayush Shetty faces a daunting opening-round clash against world No. 1 Shi Yuqi.

India also has strong hopes in the doubles events, with fifth-seeded Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty receiving a first-round bye in men's doubles. Mixed doubles pair Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto, seeded 15th, have also advanced directly to the second round. The tournament offers India another opportunity to build on its proud World Championships legacy, with Sindhu once again leading the country's medal hopes.

Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is one of Indian cinema's most ambitious upcoming projects, featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. While Yash's powerful appearance in the recently released trailer has generated widespread attention, reports suggest his association with the film began years before production officially took shape. Producer Namit Malhotra is said to have identified Yash as the perfect choice for Ravana after watching KGF: Chapter 2 in Los Angeles nearly five years ago.

According to industry reports, Yash was initially not involved with the project either as an actor or a producer. After eventually meeting him and presenting the vision for Ramayana, Malhotra reportedly convinced Yash to come on board in both capacities. The two-part epic is expected to release on a global scale during the Diwali season this year, with music composed by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman.

Former Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan said tanks and aircraft carriers will remain essential military assets despite rapid changes in modern warfare. He noted that tanks must evolve by extending their strike range far beyond the current three to four kilometres, integrating intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, and carrying drones to detect and engage enemy armour from distances of up to 40 to 50 kilometres. He also stressed the need for networked battlefield operations and improved protection against drone-based top attacks.

Speaking about naval strategy, Gen. Chauhan said aircraft carriers continue to be indispensable because they project national power and strengthen deterrence even during peacetime. While acknowledging the growing importance of submarines, he said they cannot replace aircraft carriers, which help maintain India's strategic presence across the Indian Ocean Region. According to him, adapting military platforms to emerging technologies is the key to ensuring their relevance in future conflicts.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi at Parliament House in an effort to resolve the prolonged stalemate during the Monsoon Session. The nearly 50-minute meeting focused on major legislative issues, including the proposed Delimitation Bill and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act Bill. Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Gaurav Gogoi and K. C. Venugopal also participated in parts of the discussions.

The meeting comes after repeated disruptions have prevented the Lok Sabha from completing even a single Question Hour since the Monsoon Session began on July 20. Following his interaction with Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju also met Home Minister Amit Shah and is expected to hold discussions with other Opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, in a bid to restore normal proceedings and facilitate legislative business.

The Supreme Court has clarified that recognised news organisations remain free to report on court proceedings despite its earlier interim order regulating the use of courtroom audio and video recordings. In its July 31 clarification, a Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, stated that the previous order should not be interpreted as a blanket ban on courtroom reporting by the media.

The Court reiterated that the restriction applies only to the extraction, publication, sharing, monetisation or distribution of audio and video recordings of judicial proceedings without prior permission from the Secretary General of the Supreme Court or the concerned High Court Registrar General. It also directed the Union government and High Courts to continue efforts toward implementing live-streaming rules and improving judicial transparency.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is setting new benchmarks at the Indian box office with an exceptional theatrical run. According to trade estimates, the Marvel and Sony Pictures release has crossed the ₹300 crore net milestone in India, while its overall gross collections are believed to be nearing ₹400 crore. The film's strong performance has exceeded industry expectations and reinforced the enduring popularity of the Spider-Man franchise.

Starring Tom Holland and Zendaya in the lead roles, the film is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. With collections continuing to remain strong across key markets, trade analysts believe Spider-Man: Brand New Day is well on its way to becoming the highest-grossing Hollywood film ever released in India if its momentum continues over the coming weeks.

Varun Tej's upcoming horror-comedy Korean Kanakaraju is gearing up for its worldwide theatrical release on August 7, 2026, with the makers planning a grand start through special paid premiere shows in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on the evening of August 6. Advance ticket bookings have already opened on leading ticketing platforms, reflecting growing excitement among moviegoers ahead of the official release.

Directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, the film stars Ritika Nayak as the female lead, with Satya and Daksha Nagarkar playing important supporting roles. Backed by UV Creations and First Frame Entertainments, the film features music by S. Thaman. Industry circles say the film has already secured a strong pre-release business, and if the horror-comedy connects with audiences, it is expected to enjoy a solid run at the box office.

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson presented the first Budget of the TVK-led coalition government in the State Assembly, outlining an ambitious welfare agenda. Among the headline announcements were an eight-gram gold coin and silk saree for brides under the Annan Seer Thittam, along with a ₹560 crore allocation for the Thai Maaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam, which will provide a one-gram gold ring to babies born in government hospitals.

The Budget also proposed 'Thai Care' maternity support centres across the State, 'Aran' shelter homes for transgender persons in five districts and mangrove afforestation projects in eight coastal districts. Soon after the presentation, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami criticised the Budget, saying he would award it "zero marks," setting the stage for a political debate over the new government's first financial roadmap.

After emerging as one of Akhil Akkineni's biggest box-office successes, Lenin is now gearing up for its OTT debut. Directed by Murali Kishor Abburu and starring Bhagyashri Borse alongside Akhil, the film released in theatres on July 10 and quickly recovered its investment. Produced by Annapurna Studios, Sithara Entertainments and Manam Enterprises LLP, the film also featured Shivaji, Rajeev Kanakala, Brahmaji and Sunil in key roles.

Made on a reported budget of around ₹55 crore, Lenin secured a strong non-theatrical business valued at nearly ₹34 crore. Zee5 reportedly acquired the digital and satellite rights for about ₹19 crore. While trade estimates placed the worldwide gross at around ₹80 crore, the makers officially announced that the film crossed the ₹100 crore mark, making it Akhil's first film to achieve the milestone before its digital release.

The agitation by job aspirants in Ranchi has gathered momentum as student leader Devendra Nath Mahto continued his indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations. At the request of activist Sonam Wangchuk during a video call, Mahto ended his water fast by consuming water but said his hunger strike would continue. Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the Preliminary Test for the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services Examination and a review of recruitment exams conducted through TDPL agencies.

The demonstration has entered its 12th day, with six people now participating in the hunger strike at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium. Protesters insist on direct talks with Chief Minister Hemant Soren, rejecting negotiations through committees. Meanwhile, the state government has said investigations are underway, 14 people have been arrested in connection with the alleged recruitment irregularities, and the JPSC has already postponed the Combined Civil Services Mains Examination pending further developments.

Fresh overnight rainfall has intensified the flood crisis in Assam, leaving more than 1.22 lakh people affected across five districts and pushing the death toll to 89. According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), the Dhansiri River at Numaligarh remains in a severe flood situation, prompting authorities to warn residents to stay away from the river. Sivasagar, Charaideo and Jorhat are among the worst-hit districts, with widespread flooding disrupting normal life.

Relief and rescue operations are continuing with medical, veterinary and emergency teams deployed across affected areas. Authorities are operating 55 relief camps and distribution centres, sheltering nearly 17,900 displaced people. The floods have submerged over 15,300 hectares of farmland, affected more than 26,500 domestic animals and damaged roads, embankments, schools and homes. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda is scheduled to review the relief and rehabilitation measures during his visit to the state.

Renu Desai has once again found herself at the center of social media attention after replying to an Instagram comment about her former marriage with Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan. Responding to a fan who suggested she should have stayed in the relationship, Renu said she was not the one who walked away and asked people to stop troubling her with such comments about her personal life.

The interaction quickly spread across social media, reigniting discussions among fans. Renu Desai has previously expressed discomfort over being addressed as "Vadina" by Pawan Kalyan's fans and has repeatedly requested that her personal life not be dragged into public conversations. Her latest response has once again drawn significant online attention.

Kiran Abbavaram is reportedly set to headline another promising project after the success of KA, K-Ramp and Chennai Love Story. The film is expected to introduce Srikanth Puppala as a director, following his work as an assistant director on the blockbuster Kantara franchise. The makers are said to be considering the title Indraprastha, a name that has already sparked curiosity among movie enthusiasts.

The project is likely to be launched with a formal pooja ceremony later this month, while an official announcement is expected in the coming days. The combination of Kiran Abbavaram's recent success streak and Srikanth Puppala's association with the Kantara franchise has generated early buzz on social media, with fans eagerly awaiting more details about the film.

The Reserve Bank of India's proposal to introduce plastic, or polymer, currency notes has once again come into focus, triggering public discussion over the future of Indian banknotes. Polymer notes are widely used in several countries because they are more durable, cleaner and harder to counterfeit than conventional paper currency, making them an attractive long-term option for central banks.

The proposal has also generated mixed public reactions. While many believe polymer notes could improve the lifespan and security of currency, others have raised concerns about their environmental impact and implementation costs. The debate has also extended to broader discussions on the design of Indian currency, reflecting differing public opinions on economic policy and national symbols.

Yash is currently busy with two major projects, Toxic and Ramayana, with Toxic set to hit theatres first. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the action thriller has been in production for several years and has faced multiple delays. While the project once carried enormous buzz, the prolonged wait has reduced the excitement among moviegoers.

The makers are now banking on the grand trailer launch in Bengaluru on August 8 to reignite interest in the film. Industry observers believe the trailer could significantly influence audience expectations before release. Toxic features Kiara Advani, Nayanthara and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles, while KVN Productions is backing the ambitious project.

Conflicting messages from Washington and Tehran have cast fresh doubt over diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. President Donald Trump said negotiations were in progress and described them as Iran's "last chance" to reach an agreement. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry denied that any talks or meetings with the United States were taking place, insisting that no negotiations had been scheduled.

The uncertainty comes as security concerns intensify in the Strait of Hormuz after a cargo vessel reported being struck near Oman's coast. The strategic waterway remains a critical global energy route, and any disruption could affect international oil and gas supplies. Despite the tensions, financial markets reacted positively on hopes that diplomacy could eventually reduce the risk of further escalation.

Election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor delivered a major political upset by winning the Bankipur Assembly by-election in Bihar, defeating the BJP candidate by over 19,000 votes. The constituency had remained with the BJP for more than 30 years and was vacated after former MLA Nitin Nabin moved to the Rajya Sabha and later became the party's national president. Kishor personally contested the by-election after facing criticism for staying out of the Assembly polls.

During the campaign, Kishor targeted the BJP over its leadership changes in Bihar, describing the by-election as a referendum on the party's decision to replace Nitish Kumar with Samrat Choudhary as Chief Minister. Political observers believe recent youth protests and Kishor's focused campaign helped shift voter sentiment. The victory is expected to strengthen the Jan Suraaj Party's position and could make it a stronger challenger to the BJP in the state.

Actress Tamannaah Bhatia has revealed the intense work pressure she experienced while balancing multiple film and web projects. Speaking in a recent interview, she said she would finish shooting a song for one project and immediately head to another, often surviving on just six hours of sleep a day. She also admitted that her packed schedule left her with almost no time for dance rehearsals.

Tamannaah also addressed the industry's tendency to separate actors based on acting and dancing abilities. She said several legendary performers excelled in both fields and believes the two skills should complement each other rather than be viewed independently. The actress added that meaningful roles with lasting impact matter more to her than temporary success, and that the lessons she learned early in her career continue to help her secure opportunities across industries.

Actor Varun Tej says Bollywood star Aamir Khan has been a major inspiration behind his approach to choosing films. Speaking during the promotions of Korean Kanakaraju, Varun revealed that he has always admired Aamir's ability to balance commercial entertainers with content-driven cinema. He added that he has consciously chosen different stories and characters since the beginning of his career with the same philosophy.

Varun also admitted that he could not maintain that balance in his recent films but believes Korean Kanakaraju marks a fresh start. He said he spent considerable time discussing the script with director Merlapaka Gandhi before filming began, following the meticulous preparation style that Aamir Khan is known for. The Indo-Korean horror-comedy is set to release in theatres on August 7.

Actress Nivetha Pethuraj has once again found herself in the spotlight after posting a cryptic message on social media. After taking a break from films, the actress recently made a successful comeback and is currently busy with multiple upcoming projects. Her latest post about honesty, integrity, and the consequences of pretending to be someone else quickly caught the attention of fans and social media users.

The actress did not reveal the context behind the message, leading to widespread speculation online. Some users linked it to her reported personal life, while others believed it could be a response to growing concerns over online abuse and digital harassment faced by actresses. With no official clarification from Nivetha, the post has become a major talking point across social media.

The controversy surrounding alleged remarks made by DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin about actress Trisha has escalated further. After his arrest by Thanjavur police, DMK workers staged protests across Tamil Nadu, with tensions flaring in Thanjavur as clashes broke out between DMK and TVK supporters. Police intervened to disperse both groups and restore order.

The issue has also triggered strong reactions from the film industry. Actress Khushbu described the remarks as vulgar and insulting, stating that disrespecting women for political gains is unacceptable. Singer Chinmayi Sripaada also condemned the comments, urging political leaders to focus on real public issues instead of dragging women into political controversies. Several celebrities have demanded that Udhayanidhi issue an unconditional apology to Trisha.

Actress Anupama Parameswaran has broken her silence over rumours linking her recent social media posts to her personal life. Responding in a recent interview, she firmly dismissed the speculation and said that what she shares on her official Instagram account is entirely her personal choice. She clarified that her posts were about the changes a woman experiences in life and not an attempt to seek sympathy or reveal personal pain.

Questioning those spreading rumours, Anupama said no one has the right to judge or make assumptions about her personal life without knowing the facts. She added that she is proud to speak openly about issues that deserve discussion. On the professional front, the actress is currently working on Crazy Kalyanam, directed by Badrappa, alongside Tarun Bhascker, VK Naresh and Akhil Uddemari, while continuing to choose content-driven films.

The US Department of Justice has filed denaturalisation complaints against 25 naturalised American citizens between July 20 and August 3, alleging they obtained or retained citizenship through fraud, concealment or other unlawful conduct. Among them is 65-year-old Indian-origin Narinder Singh from Delaware, who is accused of using multiple identities to enter the United States and later becoming a US citizen in 2008. The complaints also involve individuals from 16 other countries facing allegations including identity fraud, attempted murder, child sexual abuse, domestic violence, marriage fraud, passport fraud, financial fraud and practising medicine without a licence.

According to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the latest cases bring the Justice Department's total denaturalisation filings to 123 since January 2025 as the Trump administration expands immigration enforcement. Officials described the operation as the largest coordinated denaturalisation effort in the department's history, stating that US citizenship must be obtained lawfully. The legal proceedings will now determine whether the accused individuals should lose their American citizenship based on the allegations presented in court.

The Karnataka Congress is facing internal unrest after the latest cabinet expansion, with signs of growing dissatisfaction among party leaders. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remained absent from the swearing-in ceremony, while Congress MLA Yashwanthray Gowda resigned after reportedly missing out on a ministerial position. The developments have intensified speculation over factional differences within the ruling party.

Political discussions have further gathered momentum with reports suggesting that nearly 10 more Congress MLAs could resign in the coming days. Allegations are being made that legislators loyal to Siddaramaiah were deliberately overlooked during the cabinet expansion, raising questions about internal power equations. However, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the reported resignations.

A tragic elephant attack near Kuppam claimed the life of a farmer, causing concern in the border region between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The incident occurred near Chinnamattarlapalli in Krishnagiri district, where the farmer and a dairy cow were reportedly attacked by a herd of wild elephants. According to preliminary information, Tamil Nadu Forest Department officials were attempting to guide the elephants towards the Kuppam forest area when the attack took place.

The movement of the elephant herd also created panic among residents after reports emerged that the animals had travelled nearly 40 kilometres and reached as far as the Kuppam bus stand. RTC driver Viswanath shared details about the elephants' movement, highlighting the unusual extent of their travel. Forest officials are expected to continue monitoring the herd to prevent further incidents in nearby villages.

BJP MP Etala Rajender strongly criticised the Telangana government's HYDRA, alleging that the agency has turned into an instrument of public harassment. He argued that while a government has the authority to appoint officials, it does not have unrestricted powers to demolish people's homes. Rajender also claimed that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had referred to Adolf Hitler while discussing the formation of HYDRA and alleged that the agency was functioning in a similar manner by troubling citizens.

Rajender further alleged that HYDRA was being misused to demolish houses belonging to the poor, allocate land to favoured individuals, and pressure political opponents. He also claimed that fear surrounding HYDRA's actions had discouraged many people from purchasing homes in Hyderabad. These remarks were made as political criticism over HYDRA's operations continues, and the allegations represent the BJP leader's statements.

A major road accident occurred on National Highway 16 near Telaprolu in Krishna district when a YBM Travels bus travelling from Chennai to Visakhapatnam lost control and overturned onto the central divider during the early hours. The bus was carrying more than 26 passengers, and nearly 12 of them suffered serious injuries, while several others escaped with minor injuries.

Moments after the crash, a truck approaching from behind attempted to avoid the overturned bus but ended up colliding, leaving the truck driver with severe leg injuries. All the injured were shifted by ambulance to Dr. Pinnamaneni Siddhartha Hospital at Chinna Avutapalli for treatment. Gannavaram DSP Dharmendra and Atkuru police reached the accident site, supervised rescue operations, and visited the injured at the hospital.

National Award-winning actress Keerthy Suresh is once again making headlines, this time for her remarkable commitment to work. The actress revealed through Instagram that she remained awake for 41 consecutive hours while travelling between multiple film shoots without any meaningful rest. Despite the demanding schedule, she described the experience as a blessing and expressed gratitude for being constantly occupied with exciting projects.

Keerthy explained that she barely had the energy to post updates after completing back-to-back shoots and spent nearly 20 hours working in a single day. She also shared a cheerful mirror selfie and later appeared wearing a white T-shirt carrying the words "I Will Survive," saying it perfectly reflected her day. Her positive attitude and dedication have drawn widespread admiration from fans, with many praising her passion and professionalism.

Jr NTR is reportedly recovering from a shoulder injury and is currently undergoing treatment under medical supervision. Industry sources suggest that the actor is expected to take a break from filming for around two weeks to ensure a full recovery. During this period, the makers of Dragon have continued production by filming sequences that do not involve the actor.

The production team is said to be using the available time efficiently to avoid delays in the overall schedule. Once Jr NTR recovers and returns to the set, filming of his portions is expected to begin immediately. The recent injuries to actors including Nandamuri Balakrishna, Rashmika Mandanna and Jr NTR have also drawn attention to the physical demands and risks involved in film production.

India achieved a historic milestone by registering its best-ever boxing campaign at the Commonwealth Games, winning a record number of medals, including seven golds. Women boxers played a major role in the success, with standout performances from Sakshi Chaudhary, Arundhati Choudhary, Preeti Pawar, Jaismine Lamboria and Priya Ghanghas. Their victories highlighted the remarkable progress of Indian boxing and reinforced the country's emergence as a major force in the sport.

Despite the impressive medal haul, Boxing Federation of India President Ajay Singh cautioned against reading too much into the Commonwealth success, describing the Asian Games as the true benchmark. He noted that boxing powerhouses Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and China would provide a far tougher challenge. Several young champions, including Sachin Siwach and Ankush, also impressed in Glasgow, giving India greater confidence ahead of the crucial continental competition.

Tamil romantic comedy Idhayam Murali is ready for its digital premiere after earning appreciation during its theatrical run. Starring Atharvaa, Preethi Mukundhan, Kayadu Lohar, Malavika Mohanan, Thaman and Fahadh Faasil in key roles, the film will begin streaming on Netflix from August 7. The Telugu dubbed version, titled Hridayam Murali, will also be available on the platform from the same day.

The film follows Hridaya, a young man who quietly falls in love with different women at various stages of his life but never manages to confess his feelings. Just days before his wedding, he embarks on a journey to New York with his friends to find closure for his unfinished love story. Whether he chooses Samantha, Amudha or Aditi forms the emotional core of this romantic entertainer.

SS Rajamouli has generated fresh excitement by revealing new details about his ambitious film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu. The filmmaker said the time-travel adventure will begin in Varanasi, take audiences through Antarctica, Africa and ancient Rome, and eventually return to Varanasi. He also confirmed that around 80 percent of the film has already been completed, with only a few key scenes left to shoot.

Rajamouli added that the team is working towards completing the remaining schedule before Dussehra. The film also features Prithviraj Sukumaran in a pivotal role, with Priyanka Chopra playing the female lead. Produced by K.L. Narayana and composed by M.M. Keeravani, Varanasi is currently slated for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027.

After delivering several successful films with music by Devi Sri Prasad, director Sukumar is reportedly planning a fresh musical combination for his upcoming film with Ram Charan. Industry reports suggest that Shashwat Sachdev is being considered to compose the soundtrack for the project, currently referred to as RC17. If confirmed, it would mark the first Sukumar film in nearly two decades without Devi Sri Prasad as the music director.

The reported change comes as Devi Sri Prasad is currently busy with multiple commitments, including his acting debut in Ellamma. While the makers have not confirmed the music director yet, pre-production for RC17 is progressing steadily. The film's launch is expected to take place in September, with principal shooting likely to begin after the Dasara festival.

SpaceXAI has officially unveiled Grok Voice Think Fast 2.0, the latest version of its AI-powered voice model designed to deliver faster, smarter and more natural conversations. According to the company, the upgraded model improves speech reasoning, transcription accuracy, conversational quality and tool reliability. Existing Grok Voice Think Fast 1.0 users will automatically migrate to the new version on August 5, although they can continue using the older model by pinning it before the transition. The service is priced at $0.08 per minute of audio.

The company said Grok Voice Think Fast 2.0 outperformed Grok Voice Think Fast 1.0, OpenAI's GPT-Realtime-2.1 and Google's Gemini 3.1 Flash across several benchmark tests, including speech quality and reasoning. Internal evaluations also showed a 1.5x to 2x improvement in transcription accuracy across 24 languages compared with competing speech recognition models. SpaceXAI believes these improvements will make AI voice interactions faster, more reliable and more useful for everyday users and businesses.

Swiggy's Buzz Streak campaign rewards eligible users for maintaining a daily Buzz Back streak with friends through the Swiggy app. Participants need to open a Buzz link, complete the Buzz Back action every day, and ensure that both users Buzz each other to keep the streak alive. The longer the streak continues, the higher the Free Cash rewards, with eligible users able to unlock rewards worth up to ₹1,000.

The earned Free Cash remains valid for three days and can be used on eligible food orders that meet the minimum order value, which may vary between ₹299 and ₹399. Users can Buzz up to 50 people throughout the campaign, increasing their chances of maintaining active streaks and earning additional rewards. Availability, eligibility, and reward amounts may differ based on individual accounts and campaign terms.

Roman Reigns emerged victorious over Seth Rollins in the main event of WWE SummerSlam 2026 Night 2 after a gripping contest widely praised as a match-of-the-year contender. Held at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the bout featured numerous callbacks to their 12-year history as members of The Shield, dramatic near-falls, signature finishing moves and no outside interference. Reigns finally sealed the win with three consecutive Spears, securing his first clean singles victory over Rollins.

The match carried emotional weight beyond the result, with both wrestlers revisiting their shared history of friendship, betrayal and rivalry. Rollins briefly teased using a steel chair reminiscent of The Shield's most infamous moment, but Reigns rejected that path before finishing the match. After the final bell, the two former teammates exchanged a fist bump, a gesture many viewed as the symbolic conclusion of one of WWE's defining rivalries.

House of the Dragon surprised viewers in Season 3 Episode 7 by revealing that Sunfyre, the dragon ridden by King Aegon II, is still alive despite appearing dead after the Battle of Rook's Rest. The episode ends with Aegon confronting an approaching army before the badly injured dragon emerges from the forest and responds to its rider's command, dramatically shifting the momentum of the conflict.

The episode does not explain exactly how Sunfyre survived, leaving fans to speculate that the dragon remained in a dormant state while recovering from severe injuries. Its return also brings the television adaptation closer to major events described in Fire & Blood, where Sunfyre continues to play a decisive role later in the civil war. While the series has made changes from the source material before, the dragon's comeback suggests some key storylines may now unfold more closely to the original narrative.

A high-intensity challenge on Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 has drawn sharp criticism after contestants Shagun Sharma, Gaurav Khanna, Vishal Aditya and Karan Wahi were repeatedly struck with rubber bullets during a "Pain Auction" stunt. Wearing spine protectors and sleeveless vests, the four endured around 40 pellets each before two contestants withdrew from the challenge. The episode showed visible injuries and emotional reactions as host Rohit Shetty warned that tougher tasks lay ahead.

The stunt quickly sparked backlash online, with many viewers calling it excessive and questioning whether such physical pain should be part of a reality show. Shagun Sharma later shared that she was still recovering from the experience, while Gaurav Khanna described it as the most painful moment he had faced on the show. Social media users debated whether the challenge prioritized shock value over contestant safety, though the show's makers have not publicly responded to the criticism.

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its first AirPods with built-in cameras before the end of 2026, introducing a new way for wireless earbuds to interact with the surrounding environment. Reports claim the device, internally known as B790, has appeared in iOS 27 code and on Apple's product roadmap. The cameras are expected to power Visual Intelligence features by recognizing nearby objects and scenes.

Apple is said to be developing two versions of the product, codenamed B790 and B798, with the latter reportedly targeting a 2027 launch. Earlier findings in the iOS 27 beta also referenced the B790 model, strengthening speculation of an earlier release. The earbuds could feature longer stems to accommodate the cameras and an LED indicator that signals when data is being transmitted, though Apple has not officially confirmed any of these details.

Donald Trump said the United States had paused what he described as a massive military strike on Iran and that fresh negotiations were expected to begin soon, with an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme nearing completion. Iran, however, publicly denied plans to host or attend negotiations, although officials confirmed ongoing bilateral discussions with Oman focused on reopening the strategically vital waterway that carries a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Analysts remain cautious about Trump's claims, arguing that repeated threats of military action followed by abrupt reversals have weakened confidence in future negotiations. While experts believe a practical arrangement on the Strait of Hormuz may be achievable through regional mediation involving Oman and Gulf nations, they say a comprehensive agreement covering Iran's nuclear programme and broader security issues will require far more time, trust and sustained diplomatic engagement.

Ajith Kumar's upcoming film has finally received its official title, ending months of speculation surrounding the project known as AK64. The makers announced the title Dare Devil and unveiled an eye-catching first-look poster featuring the title creatively designed on a set of dice. The stylish artwork hints at a bold and powerful character for Ajith, raising anticipation among fans eager to see his next big-screen outing.

Directed by Adhik Ravichandran, the film features music composed by Anirudh Ravichander, while Shalini Ajith Kumar is producing the project under the Bravehearts Production banner. With the title reveal creating a strong buzz across social media, fans are now eagerly waiting for the makers to announce the film's teaser, trailer and release date.

The first week of August promises a busy schedule for OTT viewers, with leading streaming platforms unveiling an exciting mix of films, web series and reality shows. Between August 3 and 9, Netflix, JioHotstar, ZEE5 and Prime Video will release content across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and international languages. Akhil Akkineni's blockbuster Lenin will begin streaming on ZEE5 from August 7, while Uyir, Operation Safed Sagar and The Shards are among the week's major digital premieres.

The week also features Vadhandhi Season 2 on Prime Video, the family entertainer The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on JioHotstar and several international originals, including My Life With the Walter Boys Season 3 and Ricky Gervais: Alley Cats on Netflix. Alongside OTT releases, theatres will also welcome Korean Kanakaraju and the G.D. Naidu biopic, giving audiences plenty of entertainment choices across both digital and big-screen platforms.

Prashant Kishor has secured a decisive victory in the Bankipur Assembly by-election, defeating BJP candidate Neeraj Kumar Sinha by 18,953 votes. Contesting his first-ever election, the Jan Suraaj Party founder polled 63,203 votes against Sinha's 44,250, while RJD candidate Rekha Kumari finished third with 14,085 votes. The result sparked celebrations among Jan Suraaj supporters in Patna, where party workers gathered outside the counting centre and headquarters to mark the historic win.

The by-election was held after BJP national president Nitin Nabin resigned the Bankipur seat following his election to the Rajya Sabha. The constituency had remained a BJP stronghold since 1995, making Kishor's victory politically significant. Polling on July 30 recorded a voter turnout of 34.30 percent, and the result is expected to boost the Jan Suraaj Party's momentum as Bihar moves closer to its next major electoral contests.

OpenAI is expanding beyond software by developing a family of AI-powered hardware products, company president Greg Brockman revealed during a recent interview. Without confirming specific device types or launch dates, he said the upcoming products are being built to integrate AI into everyday life rather than serving as standalone gadgets. Brockman also predicted that voice-based interaction could eventually become more common than typing, reflecting the company's long-term vision for AI computing.

The interview also highlighted OpenAI's broader roadmap, including improvements to the redesigned ChatGPT desktop application and growing adoption of Codex. Brockman acknowledged user feedback on the new interface and said Work mode would eventually be integrated directly into ChatGPT. He added that Codex users doubled from around five million to ten million shortly after the redesign, while OpenAI continues to strengthen privacy safeguards through verifiable and auditable protections for user conversations.

Music director S. Thaman has opened up about the making of "Jaya Mangalam Subha Mangalam," the wedding song from Lenin that has won widespread appreciation from audiences. He revealed that he has always admired the iconic "Alanati Ramachandrudu" from Murari and had long dreamed of composing a wedding song with the same timeless appeal. Although the makers initially planned to keep the wedding sequence simple, Thaman convinced them to go with a richly composed classical melody.

Released on July 10, Lenin emerged as a successful box office performer, with its soundtrack receiving equal praise. Starring Akhil Akkineni and Bhagya Shri Borse, the film is directed by Murali Kishor Abburu and produced by Nagarjuna Akkineni and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. Thaman said the overwhelming response to the song made all the effort worthwhile and reaffirmed the audience's love for melody-driven compositions.

Sundeep Kishan's upcoming fantasy adventure, currently titled SK33, has locked the release date for its much-awaited first look. The makers unveiled a new poster carrying the tagline "The Transformation Begins," confirming that the first look will be released on August 5 at 11:04 AM. The poster features Sundeep Kishan standing before a grand warrior statue, hinting at a powerful transformation and a visually ambitious character arc in the film directed by Yugandhar Muni.

Produced by Mahidhar Reddy and Rajashekhar Annabhimoju, SK33 is positioned as a fantasy adventure with an intriguing folklore-inspired backdrop. The newly released poster has already generated strong buzz on social media, with fans eagerly waiting to see Sundeep Kishan's new avatar when the first look drops later this week.

The Supreme Court was informed by the Centre that it remains serious about its commitment not to pursue FIRs against students who participated in the nationwide paper leak protests. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the government would work with states to close or withdraw cases through legally permissible means. The bench, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, also announced that it would constitute a high-powered committee led by a former Supreme Court judge to investigate the violence during the CJP-led march to Parliament on July 20.

The court stressed that genuine student protesters should be separated from individuals accused of grave criminal offences, making it clear that protection should not extend to those with serious criminal antecedents. It also clarified that the term "criminal antecedents" would apply only to heinous offences after concerns were raised over privacy and identification methods. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on August 19, with further clarity expected on the status of FIRs across multiple states.

Just days after its trailer received widespread attention, Ramayana: Part One is facing fresh scrutiny from Shri Ramlila Mahasangh. The organisation has written to director Nitesh Tiwari requesting a special screening for representatives of Ramlila committees and Hindu organisations before the film releases in India and overseas. It says the preview would help identify any scenes or dialogues that could hurt religious sentiments and allow changes before the theatrical release.

The Mahasangh cited the backlash faced by Adipurush as a reason for its demand, saying it wants Ramayana to avoid similar controversies. While expressing support for the film and even proposing free screenings if it faithfully portrays the epic, the organisation also raised concerns about Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Ram in the trailer. It warned that if a special screening is not arranged and objectionable content is found after release, protests would be held outside cinema halls across Delhi and other parts of the country.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day has stormed the global box office with an estimated $927 million opening weekend, becoming the second-biggest worldwide debut of all time behind Avengers: Endgame. Starring Tom Holland and Zendaya, the Marvel-Sony film earned $335 million in North America and another $572 million from more than 73,000 screens across international markets, including $121 million from China and $49 million from the United Kingdom. The film has already recovered its reported $225 million production budget within days of release.

The blockbuster success marks a major turnaround for Marvel Studios after several recent films delivered weaker-than-expected theatrical results. Set after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the latest chapter follows Peter Parker as he continues protecting New York while living in a world that no longer remembers his identity. With positive audience reception and strong reviews praising Tom Holland's performance, Brand New Day has strengthened expectations for Marvel's next major release, Avengers: Doomsday, later this year.

Jennifer Winget has delighted fans by sharing unseen photos and videos from her haldi ceremony, offering a heartwarming glimpse into the celebrations held before her July 16 wedding to businessman William Ishmael in West Wales, UK. Wearing a vibrant green lehenga, Jennifer was seen dancing, smiling, and enjoying traditional rituals with William, while close friends Karan Wahi, Harleen Sethi, Sehban Azim, and family members joined the colorful festivities captured in her Instagram post.

Accompanying the photos, Jennifer shared an emotional message expressing gratitude to her friends for making the occasion unforgettable with their love, support, and laughter. She described them as one of life's greatest blessings and extended Friendship Day wishes to them. The actor and William officially announced their marriage last month with intimate wedding photographs, marking a new chapter in Jennifer's personal life.

Visakhapatnam is set to welcome the new AAA 8-screen multiplex, which will officially open on August 9 with a grand inauguration ceremony before welcoming moviegoers. The multiplex has been designed with advanced projection systems, premium seating and modern amenities to deliver a high-end cinematic experience. Reports indicate that Allu Arjun may attend the launch, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.

The possible presence of the Icon Star has already generated significant buzz among fans, who are expected to gather in large numbers if he attends the inauguration. While anticipation continues to build around the launch, the organisers have not yet made an official announcement confirming Allu Arjun’s participation in the event.

Varun Tej has responded to comparisons between Korean Kanakaraju and Pawan Kalyan's highly anticipated film OG during the trailer launch event. When asked whether certain visuals were intentionally designed to resemble OG, the actor firmly denied the speculation. He explained that the similarity may have been perceived because of his black-suit appearance and added that his family connection with Pawan Kalyan might also have influenced such opinions.

The actor stressed that Korean Kanakaraju is a comedy entertainer, while OG belongs to a completely different genre and style. Directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, the film stars Ritika Nayak as the female lead, with Satya playing a key role. Produced by UV Creations and featuring music by S. Thaman, the movie is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on August 7. The recently released trailer has received a positive response, raising expectations among audiences.

Actor Naresh has spoken out about the controversy surrounding the title of Idupukagitham, calling for greater respect toward regional cultures and dialects. He said Telangana should not be stereotyped with drinking habits, just as Andhra Pradesh should not be reduced to food culture. According to Naresh, every region has its own traditions and customs, while the language that unites them all is Telugu. He also urged people not to give undue importance to social media posts made by individuals.

Recalling one of his personal experiences, Naresh said he was initially surprised to see people consuming drinks during a condolence gathering in Telangana. However, he later understood that the gathering was an occasion for friends and relatives to openly share memories about the deceased, reflecting a cultural practice unique to that region. He added that he was deeply saddened by the Idupukagitham controversy and maintained that the cultures of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema are all equally meaningful and deserve respect.

Hollywood has lost one of its most recognisable character actors with the passing of Vincent Pastore at the age of 80. Widely celebrated for portraying Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in HBO's landmark series The Sopranos, Pastore was reportedly found dead at his New York home after friends became concerned when they were unable to contact him for several days. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death, and an investigation is underway.

Pastore built a career spanning more than 150 films and television productions, becoming a familiar face in gangster and crime dramas. Alongside The Sopranos, he appeared in acclaimed titles including Goodfellas, Carlito's Way and Shark Tale. His memorable performances and commanding screen presence earned him a lasting place in Hollywood, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans following news of his death.

American chemist and two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling believed that scientific discovery is a never-ending journey driven by curiosity. His quote, “I think there will always be something interesting left to be discovered,” reflects the idea that every major breakthrough, from understanding chemical bonds to exploring distant galaxies, uncovers new mysteries instead of bringing exploration to an end. Pauling, who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1954 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962, remains the only person to receive two unshared Nobel Prizes.

The quote continues to resonate in an era of rapid advances in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space exploration and medical research. It encourages people to view unanswered questions as opportunities rather than obstacles, inspiring future generations to keep asking questions, challenging assumptions and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Its enduring message is that curiosity remains one of humanity's greatest strengths.

The Asian Football Confederation has backed FIFA’s decision to withdraw its proposal to sell around a 20 percent stake in a new commercial entity managing World Cup and other FIFA events. The plan aimed to raise as much as $4.2 billion from private investors but drew strong opposition from several regional confederations, which said they were not consulted before the announcement. FIFA President Gianni Infantino later confirmed the proposal had been dropped after listening to stakeholders' concerns.

In a letter published on the AFC website, President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said the future of global football should be shaped through meaningful consultation, collective dialogue and respect for established governance. The Kuala Lumpur-based AFC, one of FIFA's six continental confederations, had earlier described the way the proposal was introduced as unacceptable and called for greater transparency in future decision-making.

Salman Khan made a surprise entry into the reality competition Alliance to support his brother Sohail Khan, who has been facing a challenging phase in the game. In a newly released promo, Salman entered through the show's signature yellow gate, leaving fellow contestants visibly stunned before walking straight to Sohail and embracing him. The emotional reunion saw Sohail tightly hug his brother, drawing an enthusiastic response from viewers.

The appearance comes shortly after Sohail's ex-wife Seema Sajdeh, who had entered the show as a wildcard contestant, was eliminated after advising him to play a stronger game. Earlier this season, Sohail also spoke candidly about surviving childhood sexual harassment, encouraging others to speak up without shame. Hosted by Kunal Kemmu, Alliance streams on Prime Video and features celebrities competing through strategy, alliances and demanding challenges.

Google has withdrawn its newly introduced AI image generation feature for Google Earth after users began creating fabricated satellite-style images showing terrorist attacks and other destructive events. The feature, launched on July 30, allowed users to generate AI-enhanced imagery from Google Earth locations using text prompts. It was removed within a day following widespread misuse and criticism over the potential spread of convincing deepfakes.

The rapid rollback highlights the growing challenge technology companies face in balancing powerful generative AI tools with responsible use. Google said it is temporarily disabling the feature while developing stronger guardrails to prevent abuse. The incident underscores increasing concerns about AI-generated misinformation, particularly when realistic images can be mistaken for authentic satellite photographs.

The U.S. State Department has made its visa bond programme permanent after completing a year-long pilot project, with the new policy taking effect on August 3. The rule applies to B-1 business and B-2 tourist visa applicants from 50 designated countries, allowing consular officers to require refundable bonds of up to $20,000 before issuing visas. India is not among the countries currently covered, while Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan are included alongside several African nations.

U.S. officials say the programme is designed to reduce visa overstays and improve compliance with immigration rules, citing positive results from the pilot scheme. The final policy increases the maximum bond amount from $15,000 to $20,000 and removes the earlier $5,000 option. Immigration advocates, however, argue that the measure could discourage legitimate travellers and reflects broader immigration restrictions introduced during President Donald Trump's administration.

Iran's military sharply accused the United States of escalating tensions across West Asia, warning that any country assisting Washington could be drawn into the conflict. The statement followed U.S. President Donald Trump's renewed threat of possible strikes on Iran as Washington presses Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and comply with a truce agreement that quickly collapsed. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed fresh attacks on two tankers, while Kuwait reported intercepting hostile drones over its territory.

The regional security situation continued to deteriorate with reports of an Israeli soldier being injured during a close-quarters encounter with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon despite an existing ceasefire. U.S. embassies across several West Asian countries also advised American citizens to prepare for possible departures if conditions worsen. With maritime attacks, military warnings and diplomatic tensions unfolding simultaneously, concerns are growing that the conflict could expand well beyond its current fronts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, giving Andhra Pradesh its first greenfield international airport since the 2014 bifurcation. Built at a cost of more than ₹5,640 crore under a public-private partnership, the airport is designed to handle six million passengers annually in its first phase. During the visit, Modi also launched and laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹17,900 crore and addressed a public gathering alongside Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and other leaders.

The Prime Minister described the airport as a growth engine for north Andhra and highlighted its naming after tribal freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju. He also laid the foundation for the State's first semiconductor facility under the India Semiconductor Mission in Visakhapatnam. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu announced that the Polavaram project would be completed in 2027 and the first phase of Amaravati by 2028, while the event also featured a Guinness World Record Dhimsa dance performance involving more than 13,000 tribal women and students.

Rescue teams in Pakistan have recovered four bodies after a powerful avalanche swept through Broad Peak, the world's 12th-highest mountain, during a climbing expedition. Authorities identified three of the victims as Oman's Nadhira Al Harthy, the first Omani woman to summit Mount Everest, American climber Sarah Mallory Geis and veteran Nepali mountaineer Pur Bahadur Gurung. Helicopter operations have been hampered by severe weather, while six climbers remain missing in the remote Karakoram region.

The expedition included climbers from Nepal, Oman, the United States, Pakistan and China, led by renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja. Broad Peak, rising 8,051 metres in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region, is considered one of the world's most demanding climbs. Authorities are continuing search efforts despite difficult terrain and adverse weather, hoping to locate the remaining missing climbers.

Jason Sanjay has opened up about the dream project he hopes to make as he prepares for his directorial debut with Sigma, starring Sundeep Kishan. During a recent interview, he was asked which Tamil actor he would cast alongside Hollywood action star Jason Statham if given the opportunity. Without hesitation, Jason said he would choose his father, Vijay, adding that the pairing would be exciting to watch. He also joked that his answer might inspire plenty of memes on social media.

The young filmmaker also explained why he decided to become a director instead of following his father's path as an actor. Jason revealed that although he once wanted to become a pilot or a cricketer, growing up on film sets gradually sparked his interest in filmmaking. He later studied film production abroad and said writing stories and bringing them to life behind the camera has always been his biggest passion, making direction the natural choice for his career.

Asmita De became the first Indian judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal in the women's 48kg category, marking a historic milestone for Indian judo. The athlete from a small village in Tripura defeated her rivals to claim the title, but the victory carried deep personal significance. Her father, who worked as a bicycle mechanic earning barely Rs.300 a day, had dreamed of seeing his daughter win an international gold medal. Sadly, he passed away seven months before she achieved that dream.

Despite losing her father and battling a serious knee injury earlier in her career, Asmita refused to give up. Her mother encouraged her to return to training just days after the family's loss, reminding her that abandoning the sport would mean abandoning her father's dream. Months of disciplined practice, personal sacrifices and unwavering determination eventually led to the gold medal, making Asmita's achievement a story of resilience, family support and extraordinary perseverance.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi has already established himself as one of India's most exciting young white-ball batters, but his biggest challenge now lies in red-ball cricket. The 22-year-old has been named vice-captain for the upcoming Duleep Trophy despite averaging only 17.25 in eight Ranji Trophy matches. Having scored a highest first-class score of 93, he now has a golden opportunity to prove he belongs among the country's top Test prospects.

The contrast between his white-ball and red-ball records has become a major talking point. Vaibhav dominated IPL 2026 with 776 runs at a staggering strike rate of 237.30 to win the Orange Cap and has also impressed in T20 internationals and List-A cricket. The Duleep Trophy, however, will test his patience, temperament and ability to face elite bowlers over long spells. Strong performances could significantly strengthen his claim for a place in India's Test squad.

The biggest attraction of the Asian Legends League 2026 so far will unfold on Sunday as Indian Royals face Pakistan Panthers in Lusaka, Zambia. The match begins at 4:00 PM IST and will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network, with live streaming available on FanCode. Shikhar Dhawan leads an Indian side featuring Dinesh Karthik, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan and Ambati Rayudu, while Pakistan is captained by Mohammad Hafeez alongside Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz and Saeed Ajmal.

India heads into the contest with confidence after defeating Bangladesh Tigers by 19 runs in its opening match. Pakistan, however, suffered an 85-run defeat against Asian Stars and needs a victory to stay on track in the tournament. Running from July 30 to August 10 with 19 T20 matches, the league has once again brought together retired Asian cricket legends, making the India-Pakistan rivalry the tournament's biggest highlight.

Preeti Pawar gave India a dream start at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games by winning the country’s first gold medal. The 22-year-old boxer dominated Canada’s Scarlett Savanna in the women’s 54kg bantamweight final, securing a convincing 5-0 unanimous decision. Her sharp punching, quick footwork and complete control throughout the bout earned her a flawless victory.

Preeti’s triumph capped an unbeaten campaign in which she defeated opponents from Scotland, Australia and Zambia before reaching the final. Ranked world No. 3 in the bantamweight division, she has now added the Commonwealth gold to an impressive list of achievements that includes gold medals at the 2026 Asian Boxing Championships and the 2025 World Boxing Cup Finals, further strengthening her status as one of India’s brightest boxing stars.

Google has introduced Lyria 3.5, an upgraded AI music generation model designed to produce more natural and expressive songs. The latest version improves melody composition, lyric generation, vocal pronunciation and overall musical quality while offering users greater control over tempo and track duration. The model is now rolling out through Google Flow Music, allowing creators to generate songs that better match their creative prompts.

Beyond generating complete songs, Flow Music also enables users to edit individual sections, rewrite or translate lyrics, swap instruments and refine tracks without starting over. Lyria was first introduced by Google DeepMind in 2023 and has since expanded across products such as YouTube Shorts and Google Vids. Google has not yet confirmed whether Lyria 3.5 will replace Lyria 3 Pro across Gemini and its developer platforms, though different subscription tiers will continue to provide varying levels of access.

Samsung Electronics delivered record quarterly results after its semiconductor division posted operating profit of KRW 89.2 trillion, marking a more than 250-fold increase from the previous year. The company also revealed that it has secured multi-year supply agreements with the world's five largest data centre operators and is negotiating similar deals with five more customers. Samsung expects global demand for AI memory chips to remain exceptionally strong, with supply constraints likely to persist through 2028.

Despite the record earnings, investor sentiment remained cautious as concerns grew over rising AI infrastructure costs and pressure on technology companies' cash flows. Samsung's mobile division slipped into a quarterly loss due to higher chip prices, while the company said its foundry business is nearing a turnaround. It also confirmed that its Taylor semiconductor plant in Texas remains on schedule to begin operations this year, reinforcing its long-term expansion strategy in advanced chip manufacturing.

Tollywood is slowly recovering after a difficult first half of 2026, when the industry went nearly four months without a major commercial success. July produced only one profitable film, Chennai Love Story, which reportedly recovered its investment by collecting around ₹21 crore against a theatrical business of ₹13 crore within its first week. Meanwhile, Nagabandham and Rao Bahadur failed to meet expectations, while Srinivasa Mangapuram marked Jaya Krishna's debut but could not make a strong impact at the box office.

The industry's attention has now shifted to August, which features several high-profile releases. Varun Tej's Korean Kanakaraju and Lokesh Kanagaraj's DC are set to release on August 7, followed by Suriya's Vishwanath & Sons on August 14. Ravi Teja's upcoming emotional drama arrives on August 21, while Yash's pan-India action film Toxic is scheduled for August 26. Trade analysts believe the month could play a crucial role in determining whether Tollywood can fully regain its box office momentum.

Prabhas' upcoming period war drama Fauji continues to generate strong buzz as fresh reports claim veteran actress Jaya Prada has joined the cast in a pivotal role. According to industry speculation, she will portray Prabhas' mother in the film, which is being directed by Hanu Raghavapudi and produced by Mythri Movie Makers. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, the film also stars Imanvi as the female lead and Mithun Chakraborty in a key role. However, the makers have not officially confirmed Jaya Prada's casting.

The film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on December 3 and has already become one of the most anticipated Telugu releases of the year. Industry reports also suggest that a special glimpse may be unveiled on August 14, offering audiences a first look at Prabhas' character and the film's war-themed visual scale. While these updates have excited fans, an official announcement regarding both the glimpse and Jaya Prada's role is still awaited.

Tejaswini Nandamuri, daughter of Nandamuri Balakrishna, is reportedly set to make her acting debut in Telugu cinema. According to industry buzz, she has chosen a female-led sports drama with a socially relevant theme for her first project. If the reports prove true, Tejaswini will become the first actress from the Nandamuri family to step into mainstream Telugu films, making her debut a significant milestone for the family.

Tejaswini has previously been associated with film production and promotional activities, earning appreciation for her behind-the-scenes work. Industry sources claim that the film's powerful storyline and the importance of her character convinced her to take up the project. While the reports have generated considerable excitement among Nandamuri fans, the filmmakers are yet to issue an official confirmation regarding her acting debut.

Varun Tej addressed fans at the trailer launch event of his upcoming Indo-Korean horror comedy Korean Kanakaraju and said he hopes audiences enjoy the film's unique blend of comedy, horror, and entertainment. He described the project as a memorable journey and revealed that he learned several Korean words and dialogues for the role, though he jokingly admitted he has already forgotten many of them. He even shared a few Korean words with the audience, adding a fun touch to the event.

The event turned emotional when fans began chanting "Jai Jai Babu... Kalyan Babu." Varun Tej said that Pawan Kalyan's name will always remain close to his heart. He also thanked Ram Charan for launching the trailer digitally, explaining that Charan could not attend the event due to surgery but conveyed his wishes over the phone. Directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, the film stars Ritika Nayak and Satya in key roles. Produced by UV Creations, First Frame Entertainments, and T-Series South, Korean Kanakaraju is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on August 7.

Shah Rukh Khan’s highly anticipated action thriller King is reportedly on the verge of setting a new benchmark in the music rights market. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film is currently under production, while industry reports claim its audio rights are being negotiated for close to ₹50 crore. Leading music labels, including Sony Music, Saregama, Zee Music, and T-Series, are said to be competing aggressively for the deal.

If the reported valuation is confirmed, King will surpass the music rights figures achieved by Pathaan and Jawan, which were reportedly sold for around ₹30 crore and ₹36 crore respectively. The film features music by Sachin–Jigar, with Anirudh Ravichander composing the background score. Scheduled for a worldwide Christmas 2026 release, King has already generated strong buzz, and fans are now awaiting an official announcement regarding the music rights agreement.

Buzz around Allu Arjun and Atlee’s ambitious pan-India project RAAKA has intensified once again, with fresh reports suggesting that Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor could be joining the film. The speculation gained momentum after Janhvi posted, “Lights on. Dreams rolling. Day 1 of something massive,” leading fans to believe she had begun shooting for the much-awaited action entertainer.

If the reports prove true, Janhvi Kapoor will reportedly share screen space with Deepika Padukone, whose involvement has already been widely discussed. The combination of Allu Arjun, Atlee, Deepika Padukone, and Janhvi Kapoor has generated significant excitement among movie lovers. However, the production team has not issued any official statement confirming Janhvi’s casting, leaving fans eagerly awaiting an announcement.

Indian cinema has entered a new era of large-scale filmmaking, with several productions being made on budgets that rival major Hollywood blockbusters. Leading the list is Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra, with an estimated budget of around ₹4,000 crore for its two-part adaptation. Close behind is SSMB29, the upcoming collaboration between director S.S. Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu, which is reportedly being produced on a budget of ₹1,200–1,400 crore. Other major entries include Kalki 2898 AD, RRR, Adipurush, and 2.0, all of which were mounted on massive production scales.

The list also features Pushpa 2: The Rule, Vijay’s The Greatest of All Time, Brahmastra Part One: Shiva, and Ram Charan’s Game Changer, each produced with investments running into hundreds of crores. These films reflect the growing ambition of Indian filmmakers to deliver world-class visual spectacles, expand their global reach, and attract audiences far beyond the domestic market.

Anupama Parameswaran shared an emotional side of her career while attending the teaser launch of Crazy Kalyanam. She revealed that Parada was one of the films she believed in the most, making its underwhelming theatrical performance particularly painful. Although she usually moves on immediately after a film's release, she admitted that Parada took longer to recover from emotionally because of the expectations she had attached to the project.

The actress said setbacks have taught her resilience rather than fear. While she acknowledged feeling uncertain whenever she hears female-centric scripts after Parada, she believes challenges often lead to meaningful growth and refuses to stop taking such roles. Looking back, Anupama said she had gone through one of the toughest phases of her life, adding that the difficult period transformed her personally and professionally.

Industry speculation surrounding a possible multistarrer featuring Chiranjeevi and Nagarjuna has become one of Tollywood’s hottest talking points. Reports suggest that director Anil Ravipudi is exploring the idea of bringing both senior stars together in a single commercial entertainer. Although there has been no official confirmation, the rumor has attracted widespread attention due to Ravipudi’s ongoing collaboration with Chiranjeevi and his long-standing desire to direct Nagarjuna.

If the project materializes, it would mark one of the biggest multistarrers in recent Telugu cinema, uniting two of the industry's most celebrated actors on the same screen. Chiranjeevi is currently busy with his film directed by Bobby, while Nagarjuna is preparing for his milestone 100th film. Until the makers issue an official announcement, the proposed collaboration remains industry speculation, but it has already generated significant excitement among moviegoers and trade circles.

Ghattamaneni Jaya Krishna has thanked Telugu audiences and Ghattamaneni fans for the warm reception to his debut film Srinivasa Mangapuram. Released with decent expectations, the film has received a positive response from fans, and the young actor said the appreciation for his performances, especially in the action and emotional sequences, has made his debut journey truly memorable.

In a video message shared after the film's release, Jaya Krishna expressed his gratitude to everyone who stood by him from the beginning. He said every compliment has motivated him to work harder and encouraged audiences who have not yet watched the film to experience it in theatres over the weekend. The film features music by G.V. Prakash Kumar, is produced by P. Kiran, and is presented under the prestigious Vyjayanthi Movies banner.

Telangana has achieved another major economic milestone, recording a per capita income of Rs. 4,18,931 for the 2025–26 financial year. Compared with the previous financial year, the state's per capita income increased by Rs. 38,900, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of 10.23 percent. The latest figures highlight Telangana's continued economic momentum since late 2023.

The growth underscores the state's improving economic performance across multiple sectors and strengthens its position among India's leading states in terms of income and development. Officials believe sustained investments, infrastructure expansion, and industrial growth have contributed to the rise, while the latest data is expected to boost confidence among investors and policymakers.

Kaloji University has officially announced the Telangana NEET UG State Rank List and category-wise cutoff marks for candidates seeking admission into medical courses across the state. The complete merit list and cutoff details have been uploaded to the university's official website, allowing candidates to check their state rankings and eligibility.

Veerayyagari Sahyuk, who secured All India Rank 13 in NEET UG, emerged as the Telangana State Top Ranker. Students occupied the first five positions in the state rankings, while female candidates secured the sixth and seventh ranks. The released list is expected to play a key role in the upcoming counselling and admission process for MBBS and BDS courses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the large-scale Thimsa dance performance organised during the inauguration of the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram. In a post shared on social media, the Prime Minister said that the performance by more than 13,000 participants deeply moved him and showcased the warmth and hospitality of the people of Andhra Pradesh. He described the traditional tribal dance as a vibrant reflection of the state's cultural heritage.

Modi said the colourful cultural presentation added a unique identity to the airport inauguration and turned the occasion into a memorable celebration. The Thimsa dance, performed by thousands of tribal women, also received widespread appreciation for highlighting the rich traditions of North Andhra while drawing national attention to the region's cultural legacy.

Telangana ministers N. Uttam Kumar Reddy and D. Sridhar Babu visited the Sriram Sagar Project (SRSP) in Nizamabad to assess the reservoir's water levels and current inflows. Accompanied by senior officials, the ministers reviewed the project's status and said preparations are underway for a comprehensive desilting programme. They added that the government would announce a decision on water releases within the next two days after evaluating the prevailing conditions.

During the visit, Uttam Kumar Reddy described SRSP as a matter of pride for Telangana and reiterated the government's commitment to restoring key irrigation infrastructure. He accused the BRS of spreading misinformation about the Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages, while stating that the Congress government remains committed to their restoration. He also highlighted that the Yellampalli project was built during a Congress regime and claimed that Congress-era dams have stood the test of time.

The makers of Crazy Kalyanam have released the teaser of the upcoming comedy entertainer directed by Badrappa Gajula. Starring Anupama Parameswaran, Tarun Bhascker, Akhil Raj and Naresh VK, the teaser opens with an emotional father-daughter conversation before shifting into a series of hilarious incidents surrounding a wedding. Anupama steals the spotlight with her lively Telangana accent, confident screen presence and energetic mass dialogues, presenting a refreshing new side of the actress.

The teaser also features entertaining performances from Naresh VK and Tarun Bhascker, whose comic timing adds to the film's lively atmosphere. Akhil Raj's surprise appearance and the family-centric humour further elevate the excitement. Produced by Boosam Jagan Mohan Reddy, the film has already generated strong buzz online, with the teaser receiving an enthusiastic response and raising expectations for its theatrical release.

The makers of Korean Kanakaraju have unveiled the film's trailer ahead of its worldwide theatrical release on August 7. Starring Varun Tej, Ritika Nayak and comedian Sathya, the trailer opens with an entertaining comedy sequence before introducing a horror-action narrative set against a Korean backdrop. Director Merlapaka Gandhi presents the film with a fresh blend of humour, thrills and action, giving audiences a glimpse of an unusual commercial entertainer.

One of the biggest highlights of the trailer is Varun Tej's makeover and his performance in two contrasting shades, adding curiosity around his character. The comic chemistry between Varun Tej and Sathya appears to be a major attraction, while the horror elements enhance the excitement. Produced by UV Creations and First Frame Entertainments, with music by Thaman, the trailer has quickly gained attention on social media and further boosted expectations for the film.

Nani's highly anticipated action drama The Paradise is once again generating strong buzz following the announcement of its teaser. Directed by Srikanth Odela and starring Kayadu Lohar as the female lead, the film is considered one of Telugu cinema's biggest upcoming releases. Industry reports indicate that the remaining portions of Keerthy Suresh's special song will be wrapped up by August 6, keeping the production on schedule.

The makers are reportedly planning to unveil the teaser along with the film's official release date once the pending shoot is completed. Although speculation around the delayed release had slightly reduced the initial excitement, the latest updates have renewed fan interest. With music composed by Anirudh Ravichander and production by SLV Cinemas, The Paradise remains one of the most awaited films in Nani's career.

Neeraj Chopra added another Commonwealth Games medal to his collection by winning silver in the men's javelin throw final in Glasgow. Competing in chilly 14-degree conditions, the Olympic and world champion registered a season-best throw of 85.83m. However, Sri Lanka's 23-year-old Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage stunned the field with a massive 89.75m throw in the second round to secure the gold medal. India's Yash Vir Singh produced a personal-best 85.41m in his final attempt to clinch bronze, while Rohit Yadav finished seventh with 81.56m.

Despite missing out on gold, Neeraj welcomed the result, highlighting the significance of having two Indian athletes on the podium. He praised Yash Vir Singh for achieving a personal best and said his own comeback was progressing well after recording his best throw of the season. Defending champion Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan had a disappointing outing, finishing ninth with 77.41m and failing to qualify for the final eight. Thousands of spectators, including many Indian fans, packed the stadium to witness Neeraj's performance.

Yash is gearing up for another major release as the makers of Toxic have confirmed that the film's official trailer will launch on August 8. The announcement was made through a striking black-and-white poster featuring a rain-soaked backdrop, instantly creating excitement among fans. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the action drama is one of the most awaited films of the year and is set for a grand theatrical release on August 26.

The trailer announcement comes shortly after Yash received praise for his powerful appearance as Ravana in the Ramayana trailer. Expectations for Toxic have grown significantly, with fans eager to see him in another intense action-packed role. Featuring music by Ravi Basrur and produced by Yash along with KVN Productions, the film is expected to be one of the biggest pan-Indian releases of the season.

After a successful theatrical run, Akhil Akkineni's emotional action entertainer Lenin is all set for its OTT premiere. Streaming platform ZEE5, which acquired the film's digital rights, has officially announced that the movie will begin streaming from August 7. Directed by Murali Kishor Abburu, the film stars BhagyaShri Borse as the female lead and received strong appreciation from audiences.

Lenin became a major milestone in Akhil Akkineni's career by emerging as his first film to cross the ₹100 crore gross mark worldwide. The film's theatrical success generated significant buzz, and its digital release is expected to attract an even wider audience. Featuring music by Thaman S and produced by Naga Vamsi and Nagarjuna, the film now aims to recreate its success on the OTT platform.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the terminal building of the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram and dedicated the facility to the nation. Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu accompanied him during the visit. The Prime Minister spent around 15 minutes inspecting the terminal, reviewing its check-in hall, aviation infrastructure and the airport's long-term development plans presented by GMR officials.

The inauguration also featured a grand cultural welcome, with a record 13,500 performers presenting the traditional Thinsa dance, which Prime Minister Modi watched from an open-top vehicle. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu presented him with a Bobbili Veena as a symbolic gift. The new airport is expected to strengthen connectivity, tourism, trade and investment across North Andhra while serving as a major aviation hub for the region in the coming years.

Tamil actress Yashika Anand, who is also known to Telugu audiences through films like NOTA, Zombie and Padam, has shared candid details about her personal life during a recent podcast. She revealed that she has not been in a relationship for the past five to six years after a painful breakup and is now content with living independently. According to Yashika, she has learned to love herself and enjoys making her own decisions without depending on anyone else.

The actress also addressed questions about her lifestyle, saying she has stayed away from parties for nearly five years. While her home has a bar setup, music and space for friends to gather, she clarified that she personally does not consume alcohol. Her honest comments about relationships, self-love and personal choices have sparked conversations among fans and are gaining attention across social media.

Raashii Khanna has revealed a heartwarming incident from the sets of Dharman, where she is sharing screen space with Superstar Rajinikanth. During a conversation about spirituality, Rajinikanth asked whether she had read Living with the Himalayan Masters. When she said she had not, he surprised her by personally gifting the book just two days later, encouraging her to read it carefully.

Raashii said she has been reading the book consistently, as Rajinikanth jokingly told her he would later ask questions about it. She added that the book has helped her understand an important life lesson—that true growth comes from removing the masks people wear to impress others and embracing their real selves. The actress described Rajinikanth’s thoughtful gesture as a meaningful gift that left a lasting impact on her.

Vijay Antony’s latest emotional drama Vande Devullu is ready for its OTT debut after completing its theatrical run. Directed by Sasi, the film was released on June 19 and generated considerable expectations, especially because it reunited the successful Bichagadu combination. While the movie received mixed reviews at the box office, audiences and critics appreciated its emotionally driven narrative and socially relevant message. ZEE5 has now announced that the film will begin streaming on August 7 in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

The story follows Vasavi, a widowed mother who raises her two sons despite constant social judgment and a lack of family support. Years later, she decides to remarry, forcing her children and society to confront long-held prejudices about widowhood and second marriages. Vijay Antony plays Yedu Kondalu, a man who changes the course of her life. The film explores family relationships, emotional resilience, and the courage to challenge outdated social norms.