"Kashmir is an important part of India. I am visiting the place for the first time. It is an incredibly beautiful place," Gor said after his meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

"We had a very warm meeting and we look forward to building on our relationship," Gor told mediapersons with Omar Abdullah standing by his side.

This is the first visit by the top US diplomat, who also serves as President Trump's Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, to Kashmir since Operation Sindoor last year.

Gor's visit is seen as a significant US diplomatic engagement in recent years amid heightened strategic developments in the region.

Speaking about the meeting with Gor, Omar Abdullah said that he had the opportunity to discuss US-India relations with a focus on Jammu and Kashmir.

"We had a very good meeting. We had an opportunity to discuss the relations between our two countries, but with specific focus on what the US can do with Jammu and Kashmir. There are obviously certain legacy issues that, over time, we will be working to resolve, but we look forward to taking this conversation further," Abdullah said.

Noting that the conversation will continue between Washington, New Delhi and Srinagar, Abdullah said: "We are very hopeful and optimistic that the engagement between the United States of America and Jammu and Kashmir will both widen and deepen in the years ahead."

One of Gor's most significant remarks came on the US travel advisory for the region. Gor said Washington regularly reviews its travel warnings and indicated that the advisory for Jammu and Kashmir could be reconsidered.

Praising the improving security situation in the Valley, Gor said while he cannot make any "big announcement" on the revision of the US advisory to its citizens, the administration may look into it. 

"New Delhi, the chief minister here, the government here - we believe - have made some incredible steps toward keeping this area safer and making it more secure. And so we will be looking at whether the travel warning that is recommended by the United States is something that should be downgraded," he said.

"This is a beautiful area. I think a lot of Americans would enjoy coming here and seeing the beauty."

The US advisory has remained an issue of concern for the Jammu and Kashmir administration, particularly as the government seeks to attract more international tourists. A formal easing of the advisory could give a boost to efforts to project the Valley as a safe destination for foreign visitors.

For now, no change to the US travel advisory has been announced. But Gor's comments suggest the issue is being actively examined in Washington.

US diplomats have visited the region in the past, including during political engagements ahead of the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. But Gor's remarks on the region being an "important part of India", coupled with his indication that Washington may review its travel advisory, are likely to attract attention in both New Delhi and Srinagar.

Gor will also meet the Dalai Lama in Leh on Friday.

Anirrudh, who doesn't have a public Instagram account so far, plays Sikander in the film. Autistic by birth, Sikander finds his refuge in sister Zoya (Disha Patani), who protects him since childhood from the clutches of a gangster father and a poisonous younger brother.

Before making his big-screen debut in Awarapan 2, Anirrudh played a character in the Netflix show Scoop (2023).
But even before he plunged into acting, he underwent thorough training under the guidance of film veteran Naseeruddin Shah.

Worked as an assistant director in Salman Khan's films

Back in 2016, Anirrudh worked as an assistant director on Salman Khan's Sultan.

"He is being mentored by Naseeruddin Shah. Now he is working as an assistant director on Sultan," Swaroop Sampat told PTI back then.

Anirrudh's brother Aditya Rawal has already acted in Hansal Mehta's critically acclaimed film Faraaz.
Swaroop Sampat earlier said that both his sons have a keen interest in acting.

Anirrudh's big-screen debut

Before the film released in theatres, Anirrudh's big debut was in the news.

"Their creative association began back in 1988 when Paresh Rawal starred in Kabzaa, which marked Mukesh Bhatt's debut film as a producer under the Vishesh Films banner," an industry insider shared with The Hollywood Reporter.

"Decades later, Aditya Rawal delivered a striking performance in Faraaz, the inaugural production of Sakshi Bhatt's Mahana Films. Now, continuing this legacy of creative intersections entirely on his own merit, Aniruddh makes his big-screen debut in Awarapan 2, produced by Vishesh Bhatt," the insider added.

About Awarapan 2 

And finally, Emraan Hashmi has entered the coveted Rs 100 crore club with his solo hit, Awarapan 2. Since its release, the sequel to the 2007 film, has been on a record breaking spree. Within five days, the film minted Rs 100 crore (net) in India, cementing Emraan Hashmi's star power in a post-Dhurandhar era.

Also Read | Awarapan 2 Box Office Collection Day 5: Emraan Hashmi Delivers First Solo Rs 100 Crore Blockbuster

SCANDAL IN EGYPT: HOSSAM HASSAN FAINTS DURING ALTERCATION BETWEEN HIS TWO WIVES

😳 The Egypt national team manager reportedly fainted during an argument between the two women.

💔 Following the incident, reports claim he decided to divorce his first wife.…

— Goal Crest (@GoalCrestX) August 18, 2026

According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, Hassan attempted to defuse the tension but later collapsed. Egyptian outlet Al-Arabiya subsequently reported that Hassan had divorced his first wife, with whom he has three children, following the incident. "He officially signed the divorce papers at a legal registrar's office in Cairo. Hassan had been with Howaida for decades prior to their sudden split, and the pair have three children," the report said.

According to Sky News Arabia, his lawyer denied rumours that Hassan had suffered a health crisis and stated that he was in good health.

Hassan is not only Egypt's coach but also the country's all-time leading scorer, with 69 goals in 177 appearances.

The Egyptian Football Association announced in July that national men's team head coach Hossam Hassan's contract had been extended following a solid outing at the FIFA World Cup. The Mohamed Salah-led side, playing in only their fourth World Cup and their first since 2018, reached the Round of 16. They bowed out of the tournament after coming close to shocking the football world, leading Argentina 2-0 in the pre-quarterfinal before the defending champions exposed the gulf in big-match experience and quality, scoring three goals in 13 minutes to complete a comeback and snatch victory and a quarterfinal spot from the jaws of defeat.

Resuming after lunch on day five, Sri Lanka looked to build on the stubborn resistance shown by Sonal Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha. Dinusha, who batted flawlessly after scoring a century in the first innings, advanced to 84 and appeared on course for getting his second hundred of the game.

But a crafty and effective Suthar turned the match decisively in India's favour with a devastating triple-wicket maiden in the 76th over. Suthar broke the partnership when he got an extra bit of bounce off a flighted ball outside leg-stump and forced Dinusha to glove to Dhruv Jurel at leg gully.

On the very next delivery, Suthar castled Prabath Jayasuriya for a golden duck with a in-drifter that gripped off the pitch to clip the top of the off stump. Lahiru Kumara safely negotiated the hat-trick ball, but Suthar switched to round the wicket two balls later to find his outside edge that was caught behind by Rishabh Pant, as he completed his second five-wicket haul in as many Tests.

Ravindra Jadeja and India's slip cordon maintained high pressure from the other end, though Sri Lanka's last pair of Nuwantha and Asitha Fernando briefly delayed the inevitable. Nuwantha showed defiance by paddle-sweeping Suthar for a boundary to take Sri Lanka past the 200-run mark.

But Suthar finished off the game in the 78th over when his quicker arm ball skidded off the pitch and breached Nuwantha's defence to castle him for 20 and spark jubilant scenes in the Indian dressing room.

India's victory was also anchored by Devdutt Padikkal's magnificent first-innings knock of 167, which gave India a massive 178-run cushion. Rishabh Pant's calculative knock of 66 in the second innings further allowed Suthar and the Indian bowling attack to exploit the turning surface and seal a comprehensive triumph.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Vehicles were damaged, people were allegedly assaulted, and government vehicles were reportedly set alight during the evening, according to Meghalaya police sources. Statues of Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose were also allegedly vandalised during the rally.
 
The KSU, a major and influential student organisation in Meghalaya's Khasi Hills region, had called the rally as part of its ongoing agitation over a five-point charter of demands. These include recruitment, protection of indigenous residents, migration and environmental concerns.

Trouble was reported from several areas in the state capital, including Polo, Barik and Mawlai, as the rally moved through the city.

A police escort vehicle was damaged, with one of its side windows smashed. A National Informatics Centre (NIC) vehicle was also vandalised at Barik, where its rear windshield was broken. Several other vehicles were reported damaged, including a pickup truck and a Telecom Department vehicle.

The situation grew more serious at the Food Corporation of India office in Mawlai, where a government vehicle was reportedly set ablaze.

At RR Colony, a locality in Shillong, the glass enclosure surrounding a statue of Swami Vivekananda was damaged. The statue had been installed by RRCWS in 2025.

The incidents came a day after the KSU had warned that it would step up its agitation if the state government failed to respond to its demands. Addressing a public meeting at Laitumkhrah Police Point on Tuesday, KSU general secretary Reuben Najiar had announced that the organisation would begin a black-flag march across Shillong.

He said, "From tomorrow, we will take to the streets and begin our public agitation. We will start with a black-flag march across Shillong city to put pressure on and condemn the government."

The KSU had earlier held demonstrations and public meetings across Shillong on August 17 and 18. The organisation had given the state government 15 days to respond to its five-point charter.

The district administration had allowed Wednesday's rally, but imposed conditions and stepped up security arrangements at sensitive locations. East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal said the administration had remained in contact with the KSU and was making efforts to ensure that the protest did not lead to a law-and-order situation.

What's Happening

Tiwari, known for shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay, shared a video on her Instagram stories showing a cockroach crawling around her house. 

According to her post, the incident happened after she ordered cold drinks through a quick-commerce grocery delivery app.

The actor tagged Mundhe in her post and urged him to take a look into the matter.

Her post comes at a time when Mundhe has been receiving considerable attention online for action taken against restaurants, canteens and other establishments allegedly found violating food safety rules and regulations. 

Several social media users have been praising the IAS officer, with some referring to him as "Asli Singham".

The actor has not shared further details about the order or the delivery platform in her post. It is also not immediately clear what action, if any, has been taken in response to her complaint.

Shweta Tiwari's Television Journey

Shweta Tiwari rose to fame with her portrayal of Prerna Sharma in Kasautii Zindagii Kay, which established her as a household name. 

She later played prominent roles in shows including Jaane Kya Baat Hui, Parvarrish - Kuchh Khatee Kuchh Meethi and Begusarai.

Tiwari has also been part of several reality shows. She emerged as the winner of the fourth season of Bigg Boss and later participated in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 6 and Khatron Ke Khiladi 11. She was also seen in Comedy Circus Ka Naya Daur.

On the OTT front, Tiwari has appeared in projects including Indian Police Force, where she played a supporting role alongside Sidharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty and Vivek Oberoi. She is currently seen in Traitors 2. 

Sharing the film's announcement post, Aditya Dhar wrote on Instagram, "So this is what I married into!" 

"Hahaha.... writer saahab...aap filmon mein try kyun nahin karte. Intezar kijiye 16 October ka," Yami replied. 

On Instagram, the actor announced the film.

She posted the synopsis: "Nayyi Navelli: A picture-perfect bride transforms a chaotic Meerut household into a slice of heaven...until her brother-in-law suspects that things may not be as perfect as they seem! The ideal bahu could very well be an evil force from an outer world!! Can this family survive her? #NayyiNavelli releasing at your nearest cinemas soon #ItStartsHere Production Company: Colour Yellow, Producers: Aanand L Rai, Himanshu Sharma, Director: Balaji Mohan, Writers: Himanshu Sharma, Divy Nidhi Sharma, Key Cast: Yami Gautam Dhar." 

The film will stream on the streaming giant Amazon Prime.

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A post shared by Amazon MGM Studios India (@amazonmgmstudiosin)

A few days ago, In an interview with Filmfare, Yami shared that while her debut was successful, it was seen as "unconventional" as she "hadn't been launched as the typical heroine." She said this affected the kind of work she was offered. After years of struggling to find the right opportunity, she had almost given up on acting when Uri: The Surgical Strike came her way in 2019.

“Just before Uri and Bala, I had made peace with leaving the industry altogether. I thought I'd return to Himachal. We have farmland there. I imagined beginning a completely different life. My parents were incredibly supportive. They simply said, 'Come home.' And strangely, the moment I stopped clinging to the industry out of fear, everything changed. Uri happened. Bala happened. Life changed almost overnight," the actress said.

About Yami Gautam And Aditya Dhar Films

This year, Yami Gautam received the Best Actress National Award for her film Article 370. Meanwhile, Aditya Dhar scripted history for making Dhurandhar the biggest Indian franchise with Rs 3,000 crore. 

On the personal front, Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam married on July 4, 2021 in an intimate ceremony in Himachal Pradesh. On May 10, 2025, the power couple were blessed with their first child, son Vedavaid. 

Taking to X on Tuesday, Ranveer pointed out that making it big in Bollywood remains difficult because only a small group of actors at the top earn major money. According to him, content creation has opened up more opportunities for people who may never become mainstream celebrities.

“People assume the film industry pays better than content creation. It's usually the opposite; only maybe thirty people at the very top of Bollywood make real money, while content creation has room for thousands of people to build something sustainable, most of them without ever becoming famous the way an actor has to.”

People assume the film industry pays better than content creation. It's usually the opposite, only maybe thirty people at the very top of Bollywood make real money, while content creation has room for thousands of people to build something sustainable, most of them without ever…

— Ranveer Allahbadia (@BeerBicepsGuy) August 18, 2026

His comments come at a time when content creators have become a major part of the entertainment and media space. YouTube, podcasts, Instagram and other digital platforms have allowed creators to build audiences directly and earn through several sources. 

Ranveer, popularly known as BeerBiceps, is himself an example of how the creator economy can grow into a larger career. He first gained attention with fitness and lifestyle videos before moving into subjects such as self-improvement, finance, entrepreneurship, and spirituality.

He later became known for The Ranveer Show, where he has interviewed names from Bollywood, business, sports and other fields. He also co-founded Monk Entertainment, a talent management and digital media company.

His journey has not been without challenges. In February 2025, he faced heavy criticism after his appearance on comedian Samay Raina's YouTube show India's Got Latent. A question he asked a contestant went viral, leading to an apology, police complaints, and legal proceedings.

The Supreme Court later allowed him to resume his podcast in March 2025, with conditions related to maintaining decency.

What's Happening

In an interview with Hauterfly, the television host recalled how her contract with MTV was not renewed after she became pregnant with her first child, Vivaan.

Years later, she said she was asked not to host the fifth season of Indian Idol because the makers believed viewers would not accept a pregnant woman as the host.

Mathur had spent five years as an MTV VJ when she became pregnant.

According to her, the channel decided against renewing her contract because pregnancy did not fit the image associated with VJs.

“When I got pregnant with Vivaan, I had spent five years on MTV. My contract was not renewed because VJs are never pregnant,” she said.

Comparing the situation with how pregnancy was viewed in the entertainment industry abroad, Mathur recalled Heidi Klum continuing to host Project Runway while pregnant.

“Heidi Klum was hosting fully pregnant on Runway. But that is the West,” she said.

Mathur also remembered the way she was informed that her association with MTV would come to an end.

“I was just told: You are pregnant. Have fun. Wish you a good life,” Mathur said.

The decision disappointed her because she believed the professional value she had built over the years should not have been overshadowed by her pregnancy.

“I felt a little bad. Because I felt that you have generated a value for yourself. Through your career and skills. And for the channel. But to use the pregnancy as an exit was a bit infuriating,” she said.

Despite feeling hurt, Mathur said she chose not to challenge the decision. She felt that if the channel valued her work, it would have found a way to retain her.

“No. Because I have dignity. That if you value me. You won't let me go. I felt this is a bit of a put-off. At that time I didn't feel so bad.”

Mini Mathur On Being Asked To Skip Indian Idol Season 5

Mathur later faced a similar situation while associated with Indian Idol. She had hosted the first three seasons of the singing reality show and had become one of its recognisable faces.

While preparing for the fifth season, Mathur told the team that she was expecting her second child, Sairah. She said she was prepared to host the auditions but would be visibly pregnant by the time the finale was filmed.

“I was expecting Saira after the 4th season of Indian Idol. And I told the team that I am pregnant as we were going to start season 5. I told them, ‘I am going to be fine during the auditions. But by the time we are doing the finale, I will be showing,'” she recalled.

According to Mathur, the makers subsequently decided that she should not host the season, citing concerns about how Indian viewers would respond to a pregnant host.

“So I was told not to do the season. Because Indian audiences will not be able to accept a pregnant woman,” she said.

The decision left Mathur disappointed, particularly because she felt the industry should have been more progressive in its approach.

“So I just felt very let down. Because they don't have foresight. They don't know what is happening in the world.”

Mathur eventually received an offer to return for the sixth season. However, she said that by then, her feelings towards the show had changed.

“I was called back in the 6th season. But by then, I no longer wanted to go back. I was like I don't want to do it,” she said.

Mini Mathur's Television Journey

Mathur began her television career with Tol Mol Ke Bol before becoming an MTV VJ. She later hosted the initial seasons of Indian Idol and went on to work across television, films and streaming projects.

She has also appeared in shows such as Mind the Malhotras and participated in Amazon Prime Video India's reality show The Alliance. She took home the trophy along with a Rs 50 lakh cash prize.

Mathur is married to filmmaker Kabir Khan. The couple have two children, Vivaan and Sairah.

As the senior-most player in the side, Rahul expressed his delight at seeing young talents make an immediate impact and establish themselves at the highest level. He also revealed that the Indian dressing room remains an open environment where players are encouraged to communicate and share their views freely.

"I think it's every player's responsibility to help another player out whether you're older or someone who's just 26 but played 20 Tests it's everybody's responsibility to help your fellow teammates." Rahul said during the post-match press conference.

"Even when we had players who played 60-70 Test matches and I only played 20 or 30 Test matches there was no shame or egos in players to say I can't learn something from you or to say he's played so many Test matches so I can't go and talk to him. So it's always been an open dressing room and people are learning from each other." Rahul said seniority is not a hindrance to continue the learning process.

"I might learn a thing or two from a newer player. Now, I speak to Jaiswal about sweeping and reverse sweeping and what he thinks and he'll share his thoughts. But their mindset is slightly different to mine and mine might be slightly different to someone else. So, it's just what has always happened, not just in this change room," he added.

Rahul further praised Suthar, saying the left-arm spinner has consistently managed to hit the right areas, making life difficult for batters and keeping them under constant pressure.

"I think he's very consistent from the same place, just using subtle variations he's able to do that through the day. So, batsmen will also think that if he's not moving then I'll have to do something so when you get a batter in that sort of mindset you'll win the contest.

(With PTI inputs)

They have also teased audiences with a glimpse that will be shared on August 24.

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A post shared by Prasanth Varma (@prasanthvarmaofficial)

First Look Poster

Last year, the first look poster went viral on social media again after the release of Dhurandhar. The image depicts Akshaye Khanna as a sage-like figure with a long silver beard. The actor wears his hair in a topknot, and his intense gaze – with luminous white eyes – seems to pierce through the darkness of the background. 

More About Mahakali

Mahakali is the next big project in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). The superhero film is centred on India's first female superhero, with Bhoomi Shetty portraying Goddess Kali. Directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, the movie is produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under RKD Studios.

Mahakali will feature a bold and refreshing portrayal of the revered Goddess Kali. The story, inspired by mythology, will explore themes of discrimination, inner strength and reclaiming one's identity in a world that often overlooks the value of darker skin.

Akshaye Khanna plays the role of the legendary guru Shukracharya of the Asuras, and is known for his cosmic knowledge.

The film is slated to hit theatres in early 2026.

ALSO READ | Akshaye Khanna Owned 2025 With Dhurandhar, But 2026 Belongs To Naseeruddin Shah

If the reports are true, the Ashwath Marimuthu directorial will give Ram a fresh chance to show a side of his acting that audiences have not seen before. The movie is reportedly based on a conflict between a father-in-law and son-in-law. Ram and Rajinkanth's face-off may well develop into one of the highlights of the movie.

According to IndiaGlitz reports, the second shooting schedule of Dharman has already started in Chennai. While Rajinikanth has been part of the shoot since the beginning, Ram Pothineni has joined the cast now.

Kamal Haasan is producing the film, which also features Simran and Raashii Khanna in key roles. The project also marks Rajinikanth's first collaboration with director Ashwath Marimuthu and Ram.

Apart from Dharman, Rajinikanth has several other projects lined up. He will return as Muthuvel Pandian in Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. The superstar is also expected to be part of another exciting project with Kamal Haasan.

While Ram Pothineni has joined Rajinikanth in Dharman, the actor is also preparing for another big change in his career. He is set to make his directorial debut with a film, tentatively titled RaPo23. The project is expected to be a thriller, featuring Riteish Deshmukh as the villain.

She was spotted at the Bandra, Mumbai court, though the reason was not known. There have been serious allegations and controversial remarks from Sunita Ahuja for a long time now, with Govinda responding now and then.

Govinda's manager, Shashi Sinha, expressed his disappointment in how this whole matter played out in the media over the last two years. He added that there was no need for this to come this far, as "fights happen and yet things continue".

He told NDTV, "But once it reaches the courts, the whole world knows. Did the world need to know? There was no need. Family matters should stay within the family. Many things get resolved after sitting and talking things through. If the case was to be withdrawn today, why was it filed in the first place? This pains me. Why did we become a spectacle?"

"Govinda currently has no reaction. All of this just happened minutes ago. There is no reaction at all. May God grant everyone good sense, and may everyone act wisely. That is all that matters. I speak well for everyone - for Govinda, for Sunita, for the children, for all," concluded Shashi Sinha.

Govinda-Sunita Ahuja's Relationship Came Under Scanner

Rumours of Govinda and Sunita's divorce have been swirling online since last February.

Speculation about Govinda and Sunita's relationship troubles gained momentum after Sunita Ahuja shared personal details in a few recent interviews.

Amid these rumours, an ETimes report quoted a source as saying, "Sunita apparently had sent a separation notice a few months ago, but there has been no movement since then."

Reports also suggested that the couple reconciled last year.

On Ganesh Chaturthi last year, the couple posed together in front of media. Sunita said, "Aaj itna close, close... agar kuch hota toh hum itne nazdeek hotey? Humaari dooriyan hoti! Koi hum dono ko alag nahi kar sakta hain, chahe upar se koi aa jaaye bhagwan aa jaaye, koi shaitaan aa jaaye. Koi nahi alag kar sakta hai. (If something had happened between us, would we be so close today? There would have been distance between us. No one can separate us, not even if God or a devil comes down.)"

Latest Update

Sunita Ahuja recently referred to Govinda as a "sugar daddy" in connection with his Roopa co-star Komal Rani Swarnkar. Govinda has since responded to the controversy. The remarks came after Sunita publicly accused the actor of having an affair with the actress.

Responding to the allegations, Govinda said, "Jo kaam baahar mujhe milta hai, woh main karta nahin hoon, aur jo main kar raha hoon, usmein aap hastakshep kar rahi hain. Aur jab aap apna kaam kar rahi thi, chahe woh khaane ka show tha, chahe woh lockdown tha, Tina se kehkar dono shows mein aapne aise-vaise, yen-ken-prakaren mujhe bulvaya aur mujhse sevaayein lein. Khair, woh toh aapka haq hai. (I do not take up every opportunity that comes my way, and yet you are interfering in the work I am currently doing. When you were working, whether it was your food show or during the lockdown, you used your contacts to invite me to both programmes and sought my support. Of course, that was your right.")

He further said, "Aur jis waqt maine film shuru ki hai, aap ek bhi kasar nahin chhod rahi hain ki main logon ke dil se utar jaaun, badnaam ho jaaun ya kuch aisa ho jaaye ki mera business na ho. (Now that I have started a film, you are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that I lose public support, get defamed, or suffer setbacks in my work.") 

Govinda and Sunita Ahuja got married in March 1987. The duo kept their marriage under wraps until after their daughter, Tina, was born in 1988. Years later, they welcomed their son, Yashvardhan, in 1997.

ALSO READ | Viral Video: When Sunita Ahuja Admitted Feeling 'Jealous' Seeing Govinda With Female Co-Stars

Amid the divorce rumours, a throwback statement from Govinda has resurfaced online. In an interview with Stardust, the actor spoke about his kundali and how it revealed that he would get married twice.

"Tomorrow, who knows, I may get involved again, and maybe I will marry the girl I get involved with. But Sunita should be prepared for it. Only then will I feel free. And there is a second marriage in my kundali," he said. 

Govinda also spoke highly of his co-stars Juhi Chawla and Divya Bharti.

"Well I am a firm believer of destiny. What has to happen, will happen. Yes, I like Juhi a lot. Even Divya Bharti. Divya is a very sensuous girl. It's difficult for a man to resist her. I know Sunita is going to be very upset with all this. But she should know that I am still resisting Divya's charms. I haven't given into the temptation as yet," he added. 

He further shared, "But once it reaches the courts, the whole world knows. Did the world need to know? There was no need. Family matters should stay within the family. Many things get resolved after sitting and talking things through. 

“If the case was to be withdrawn today, why was it filed in the first place? This pains me. Why did we become a spectacle?"

Meanwhile, Sunita Ahuja's appearance at a Mumbai court today sparked fresh speculation about trouble in her marriage. However, Govinda's manager Shashi Sinha dismissed the separation rumours and told NDTV that Sunita has withdrawn her divorce case against the actor. He added that the matter did not need to escalate this far, as disagreements are a part of relationships and couples often move past them.

Sinha told NDTV, "But once it reaches the courts, the whole world knows. Did the world need to know? There was no need. Family matters should stay within the family. Many things get resolved after sitting and talking things through. If the case was to be withdrawn today, why was it filed in the first place? This pains me. Why did we become a spectacle?"

"Govinda currently has no reaction. All of this just happened minutes ago. There is no reaction at all. May God grant everyone good sense, and may everyone act wisely. That is all that matters. I speak well for everyone - for Govinda, for Sunita, for the children, for all," he concluded. 

Govinda and Sunita Ahuja got married in March 1987 but chose to keep their marriage private for some time. They made their relationship public only after welcoming their daughter Tina in 1988. The couple later became parents to their son Yashvardhan in 1997.

He captioned the picture: "Rains Canceled shoots - You get an afternoon nap in your favourite spot as a kid. Recovery - 1000%"

He gave the photo courtesy to his wife, Rashmika Mandanna. 

"Did you give me the credit just because you didn't want to see my puppy eyes back home? Rashmika wrote in the caption. 

"Also now while we are at it.. can you give me credit for all the other photos that I've taken over the years also," the actor demanded. 

"I should show my loves how amazing my photography skills really are nooo!! just saying," she added.

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A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Interestingly, during their dating period, Rashmika and Vijay Deverakonda didn't post pictures together on their respective social media handles.  So, when they first shared their official wedding pictures, they went crazy viral in no time.

About the Wedding

The couple had a grand yet private wedding in February, this year. 

The couple had a Telugu wedding in the morning, honouring Vijay's cultural roots, followed by a Kodava wedding in the evening, celebrating Rashmika's cultural lineage.

Initially tight‑lipped about rumours of their wedding, the couple had actively been sharing exclusive glimpses of their pre‑wedding festivities with fans since February 23.

Highlights included an exquisite Japanese dinner for guests, pool volleyball, and a friendly cricket match tagged as the "VIROSH Premiere League" on February 23 and 24.

The Sangeet ceremony took place on Tuesday evening at the hill resort of Mementos, followed by an intimate Haldi ceremony and mehendi on February 25.

Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi director and actor Tharun Bhascker, The Girlfriend director and actor Rahul Ravindran, actors Eesha Rebba and Ashika Ranganath, stylist Shravya Varma, Arjun Reddy and Animal director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, and Lokah star Kalyani Priyadarshan attended the wedding.

Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda first met on the sets of the 2018 film Geetha Govindam and later collaborated on Dear Comrade (2019). Geetha Govindam, a classic love story, became a huge blockbuster, minting ₹132 crore at the box office.

Breaking Down The Numbers 

On day 6, Batwara 1947 collected a net of ₹1.40 crore across 6,475 shows as per Sacnilk. 

This brings total India gross collections to ₹38.17 crore and total India net collections to ₹32.15 crore so far.

Overseas, the film collected ₹0.50 crore on Day 6, taking its total overseas gross to ₹7.25 crore so far. 

This pushes the worldwide gross collection to ₹45.42 crore.

On the opening day (August 14), the film minted Rs 5.75 crore. 

On Saturday, the film minted Rs 13.50 crore. 

On Sunday, the film minted 7.25 crore in India. 

On Monday, the film minted Rs 2 crore in India. 

Review 

In his review for NDTV, film critic Saibal Chatterjee wrote, "On the acting front, the man of action persona stalks Sunny Deol all through the film but to his credit the lead actor makes the most of the film's quieter moments and emotive scenes to add a kind of weight that is far more powerful than his fists of fury.

"Preity Zinta, providing an ideal foil, also does her bit to enhance a few of the crucial turning points.

"Shabana Azmi delivers an absolute tour de force. She does in Batwara 1947 what Naseeruddin Shah did in Main Vaapas Aaunga. She lends it the sort of depth and gravitas that instantly elevate the entire enterprise."

About Batwara 1947

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi, Batwara 1947 marks the reunion of Santoshi and Sunny Deol after nearly three decades. The two previously collaborated on hits such as Ghayal (1990), Damini (1993) and Ghatak (1996).

The Indian captain was particularly concerned about the team's inability to retain possession after winning the ball in the attacking half.

“If you are winning the ball in the 25-metre area, we must keep the possession. We are making some silly mistakes which can be avoided. In the two matches we have talked about avoiding the slow start in the third quarter but we did the same mistake today. It is a good learning for us for the next match,” said Harmanpreet, who led from the front scoring two goals from penalty corners.

The captain, however, felt there were plenty of positives in India's overall performance, particularly in their attacking play and ball circulation.

“If you look at our circle entries, ball possession, opportunities we have created and the passing, it was up to the mark. I am very happy with the performance,” he said.

India's ability to handle the pressure of a charged-up contest also pleased head coach Craig Fulton, who said his players remained committed to the game plan despite the occasion.

“It was a big game on a big occasion and everyone is trying their best. I am glad that we stuck to our plan. I am happy with the way the team played,” Fulton said.

Abhishek, who scored twice, said there was never any panic in the Indian camp despite Pakistan making a comeback.

“There was no nervousness. We played as per our plan and succeeded. We knew that we cannot afford to be relaxed at any moment,” he said.

Pakistan's Sufiyan Khan, meanwhile, admitted that his side's mistakes proved costly against a strong Indian outfit.

“We made many mistakes and we have to work hard. India is a very good team and hopefully we will learn from this and come back stronger in the Asian Games next month,” he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Despite going down to India in the first Test, head coach Gary Kirsten was pleased to see Sri Lankan players embracing the challenges that the red-ball format offers. The 165-run defeat to India was Sri Lanka's second defeat in three Tests after going down to the West Indies by an innings and 217 runs at North Sound, Antigua, in June.

"I'm particularly excited by being involved with Sri Lankan cricket. I think there are some great players here, but the team still needs to develop. It is sometimes tough when you don't play Test cricket to understand how you need to play it," Kirsten said in the post-match press conference.

"This is now our third Test match in the space of a couple of months, and I can already see the team developing, and we're starting to build some shape into the team.

"But we need to be able to turn it into a performance at some point. But as I said, we're kind of building that and developing that as best we can," he added.

Kirsten was happy to see the fight Sri Lanka showed despite being reduced to 99 for five in the early part of their first innings and then dragging the match into the fifth and final day.

"From being 99 for 5 at the beginning of the third day to then taking the Test match into the afternoon of the fifth day was particularly pleasing. There was a bit of fight, and we were keen to try and stay in the Test match.

"We still believed even this (Wednesday) morning that we could make something happen, either win the Test match or certainly draw it. So, I was really pleased with the energy and the attitude of the team around that.

"But I think if you look at the Test match, we battled with the bat, especially in our top order, in both innings, and that probably cost us," he added.

With PTI inputs 

The sequel, starring Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani and directed by Nitin Kakkar, has already crossed the Rs 100 crore India net mark in its first week. The film also gave Hashmi his career-best opening, earning Rs 22 crore on Day 1, and became his first solo hero film to cross the Rs 100 crore milestone.

But while the numbers have been grabbing headlines, one question has also been doing the rounds: how did an Emraan Hashmi film go without even a single kissing scene?

Awarapan 2 writer Bilal Siddiqui has the answer. Speaking to NDTV, Siddiqui revealed that leaving out a kissing scene was a conscious decision.

"It was a conscious decision. Yes. So Awarapan 1 also didn't have it," Siddiqui said.

But according to the writer, the bigger reason was Shivam's emotional journey in the sequel. The character, played by Hashmi, is still deeply connected to the memory of his late lover.

"Now that people have seen the film, they would know that it would be kind of unfair to the character to kind of throw that in," Siddiqui explained. "It would just look contrived."

Siddiqui believes Shivam's relationship with his late lover has evolved far beyond romance.

"Shivam as a character at some level still holds his lover who passed to that pedestal where he is not completely ever going to move on," he said.

"She has transcended from just being his love. She's become his strength and almost like a guiding force."

And that changes what Shivam is looking for. "His priority is not necessarily moving on romantically. He's got a larger fight to fight," Siddiqui said.

So where did that leave the possibility of a romantic kissing scene?

"I think a kiss and all of that never came into mind at all because we didn't find an organic way to lead to that with this character," the writer said.

The makers were also aware of the audience expectations attached to Hashmi.

"I know what people expect of Emraan," Siddiqui said.

But the writer has a cheeky answer for those waiting to see Hashmi return to his trademark territory: "I guess he'll do it in another film."

For Awarapan 2, though, the decision was clear. The kiss was never needed because, as Siddiqui puts it, Shivam has a "larger fight to fight."

Indian equity benchmarks rallied on Thursday, after logging its longest losing streak in 11 months. The NSE Nifty 50 rose as much as 0.6% to 24,225 and the BSE Sensex rose as much as 585 points or 0.8% to 77,494.79. The positive regional cues followed a recovery in US equities. The S&P 500 ended a three-session losing run on Wednesday as longer-dated Treasury yields retreated from multi-year highs after the US government announced measures aimed at easing stress in the bond market.

ALSO READ: MCX Share Price Rallies Over 3% In Trade. Stock Up 84% In One Year. More Upside Ahead?

IT stocks rally for second straight session
Photo Credit: NSE

Why are IT stocks rallying in trade?

Shares of midcap stars Coforge and Persistent Systems led the charge by jumping 3.33% and 2.60% respectively in the first hour of trade, while Infosys, Wipro, and TCS followed with gains in the range of 1-2%. Mphasis, LTM, HCLTech also climbed upto 1.5%. The rally in domestic IT stocks continued for the second day on value buying across midcap and heavyweight counters amid a weaker rupee. On Wednesday, India's IT majors defied a major global tech selloff over record-high bond yields. 

ALSO READ: Sugar Rush Meets Govt Clampdown: Stock Limits Tightened As Prices Soar Ahead Of Festive Season

In yesterday's session, all sectoral indices closed in the red except the Nifty IT benchmark. The index snapped a three-day losing streak and was the only sectoral gainer, up 0.6%. Coforge and HCL Tech were the top sectoral gainers on Wednesday. Shares of Coforge settled up 2.4% higher while HCLTech shares settled 1.85% higher after the closing bell.

''Reflecting weakness across Asian markets, Indian equities saw broad-based selling, though IT stocks outperformed on value buying and support from a weaker rupee,'' said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments Ltd.

The April-June quarter performance for Indian IT majors was in line with lmuted expectations for most large caps. Mid-caps performed better on reported growth - similar to the preceding March quarter of FY25. The aggregate growth trajectory for top nine IT companies remains stuck in low gear. Nifty IT has now underperformed Nifty 50 by ~11% CYTD, despite the sharp bounce from May lows. The index now trades at ~18x 1-year forward earnings, expensive in the context of AI deflation.