Bigg Boss OTT 3: Ranvir Shorey Clashes with Sana Makbul Over Personal Remarks

Bigg Boss OTT 3: Ranvir Shorey, previously married to actor-filmmaker Konkona Sen Sharma, and Sana Makbul have frequently clashed throughout the season.

As Bigg Boss OTT Season 3 nears its grand finale, tensions have intensified between contestants Ranvir Shorey and Sana Makbul. The latest clash occurred during a task, where Sana’s comments about Ranvir’s personal life, including his teenage son, led to a dramatic response.

During a recent task, contestants were divided into teams. The task involved one contestant placing their head and hands in a setup while trying to maintain a smile despite the opposing team’s efforts to make them lose it. When Ranvir participated, Sana made several personal jabs, questioning his priorities and referencing his son, who lives in the US.

Sana’s remarks included criticisms about Ranvir’s dating life and financial intentions regarding the prize money. Her comments seemed to provoke Ranvir, leading him to give her the finger. Sana continued with her provocations, discussing Ranvir’s personal life and dating apps, which fueled the altercation.

Ranvir later confronted Sana, calling her a “gutterchaap” and expressing his displeasure at her bringing up his son. In response, Sana defended her actions, stating that she had the right to speak her mind and didn’t consider her remarks to be out of line.

Ranvir Shorey, who was previously married to actor-filmmaker Konkona Sen Sharma, has openly discussed the end of his marriage and his commitment to co-parenting their son. The drama between him and Sana has added another layer of intrigue as the show approaches its final episode.

The grand finale of Bigg Boss OTT 3 is scheduled for August 2 and will be available for streaming on JioCinema. Remaining contestants include Ranvir, Sana, Naezy, Lovekesh Kataria, Armaan Malik, Kritika Malik, and Sai Ketan Rao.

July 30, 2024 0

Ola Electric IPO: Prices Set at Rs 72-76 Per Share, Aiming to Raise Over Rs 6,100 Crore

The company will raise Rs 6,145 crore at the upper end of the IPO price band and Rs 6,111 crore at the lower end

Ola Electric Mobility Limited, the Bengaluru-based electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced the price band for its upcoming initial public offering (IPO). The shares will be offered at a price range of Rs 72–76 each, with the IPO set to open for subscription on August 2 and close on August 6. Investors can bid for a minimum of 197 shares and in multiples of 197 shares thereafter.

IPO Details

. Price Band: Rs 72–76 per share

. IPO Opening Date: August 2

. IPO Closing Date: August 6

. Minimum Bid: 197 shares

At the upper end of the price band, Ola Electric aims to raise Rs 6,145 crore, while the lower end targets Rs 6,111 crore. The IPO will consist of a fresh issue of up to Rs 5,500 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 8.49 crore shares worth Rs 645 crore. There is also a reservation for eligible employees.

Use of Proceeds

According to Bhavish Aggarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of Ola Electric, the proceeds from the fresh issue will be allocated as follows:

Rs 1,227.6 crore for capital expenditure by subsidiary OCT
Rs 800 crore for repayment or pre-payment of debt
Rs 1,600 crore for research and product development
Rs 350 crore for organic growth initiatives and general corporate purposes

Company Overview

Ola Electric specializes in manufacturing electric vehicles and core EV components, including battery packs, motors, and vehicle frames, at its Ola Futurefactory. The company aims to capitalize on the growing trend of EV adoption in India and plans to expand into select international markets.

Since delivering its first model, the Ola S1 Pro, in December 2021, Ola Electric has quickly become a leading electric two-wheeler (E2W) brand in India. The company has also introduced additional models, including the Ola S1, Ola S1 Air, and Ola S1 X+.

Future Plans

Ola Electric’s vertically integrated business model includes in-house R&D, manufacturing, supply chain management, and a direct-to-consumer (D2C) omnichannel distribution platform. The company plans to use its Generation 2 platform, initially developed for the Ola S1 scooter, for a new motorcycle range featuring four models: Diamondhead, Adventure, Roadster, and Cruiser.

The company’s facilities include a Futurefactory, Gigafactory, and a Battery Innovation Centre in Bengaluru, with ongoing construction of an EV hub in Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts.

As Ola Electric prepares for its IPO, the company’s focus on innovation and expansion continues to position it as a key player in the EV industry.

July 30, 2024 0

New Guidelines for Bagless Days: Making Learning Fun and Practical for Classes 6-8

Four books and lecture notes aimed at promoting Indian knowledge systems among students and teachers were also launched

The Union Ministry of Education has unveiled new guidelines aimed at making learning more joyful and practical for students in Classes 6 to 8. Announced on the fourth anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these guidelines introduce the concept of “bagless days” to enhance students’ learning experiences.

What Are Bagless Days?

Starting this academic year, students in Classes 6–8 will experience a 10-day period where they won’t carry their school bags. Instead, they will engage in hands-on learning by interning with local vocational experts such as carpenters, gardeners, potters, and more. This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, helping students explore various vocational crafts and potential career paths.

Key Highlights of the Guidelines

Integration into Curriculum: The bagless days are meant to be an integral part of the curriculum, not just an addition. The aim is to reduce the boundary between bookish knowledge and real-world application.
Vocational Exposure: Students will participate in practical courses that offer a survey and hands-on experience of important vocational skills. Activities might include carpentry, gardening, metal work, pottery, and other crafts tailored to local and state needs.
Flexible Scheduling: Schools can schedule these 10 bagless days across the academic year, ideally spreading them over two or three slots. This flexibility allows for the integration of both indoor and outdoor activities, depending on the school’s annual work plan.

Suggested Activities

The guidelines include a variety of engaging activities such as:

Visits to vegetable markets and charity organizations
Surveys and report writing on topics like pet care
Creative activities such as doodling, kite making, and flying
Organizing book fairs and visiting biogas plants and solar energy parks

These activities are designed to offer practical learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom settings.

Additional Initiatives

On the NEP anniversary, several other educational initiatives were also launched, including:

Dedicated TV channels for learning various Indian languages
Tamil language learning resources
Career guidance guidelines and mentoring programs
National Professional Standards for Teachers in braille and audiobooks
A school innovation marathon by AICTE
Books and lecture notes promoting Indian knowledge systems

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted that the NEP 2020 aims to bring transformative changes to the education system. He emphasized that these changes are crucial for nurturing a new generation of learners, harnessing the country’s demographic dividend, and driving socio-economic development.

The newly introduced bagless days are a step towards making education more experiential, engaging, and relevant, helping students connect their academic learning with real-world skills.

July 30, 2024 0

Today in Politics: PM Modi’s Post-Budget Address, Kejriwal Rally, and Assembly Drama

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the inaugural session of "Journey Towards Viksit Bharat: A Post Union Budget 2024-25 Conference" in Delhi on Tuesday.

PM Modi to Address CII Post-Budget Conference

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to speak at the “Journey Towards Viksit Bharat: A Post Union Budget 2024–25 Conference” organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Delhi on Tuesday. The conference will showcase the government’s vision for growth and the role of industry in achieving it. Over 1,000 participants from various sectors, including industry, government, and diplomacy, will attend in person, with many more joining virtually from across the country and abroad.

Opposition Rally for Kejriwal’s Release

Meanwhile, at Jantar Mantar, the opposition-led INDIA bloc is holding a rally organized by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to protest the continued detention of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Despite his declining health, Kejriwal remains incarcerated in the now-defunct liquor policy case. The rally, featuring Congress, SP, RJD, TMC, DMK, CPI, CPI(M-L), NCP (SP), and Shiv Sena (UBT), aims to demonstrate opposition unity. AAP has accused the BJP of attempting to harm Kejriwal, citing medical reports of his deteriorating health.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, who is attending the rally, will miss the farewell event for outgoing Governor Banwarilal Purohit. Purohit, who has had a contentious relationship with Mann, will be replaced by Gulab Chand Kataria.

Rajasthan Assembly Turmoil

In BJP-ruled Rajasthan, opposition parties, led by Congress and the Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP), have caused disruptions in the Assembly over allegations of crimes against Dalits. The Assembly faced three adjournments on Monday, with Speaker Vasudev Devnani promising to address these concerns during Zero Hour. Key issues raised included the murder of a Dalit teacher and various alleged atrocities against Dalits.

Jharkhand Assembly Chaos

In Jharkhand, where a JMM-led alliance is in power, the Assembly experienced chaos as BJP MLAs raised concerns over alleged Bangladeshi infiltration and atrocities against tribals. The disruptions led to multiple adjournments, with further confrontations expected as the Assembly reconvenes. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s strategy to focus on these issues ahead of upcoming state polls continues to drive the BJP’s stance.

Assam’s Welfare Review

In Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is reviewing the progress of ongoing welfare projects with ministers, senior officials, and district commissioners in Guwahati. Sarma has emphasized the need for DCs to focus on their districts’ strengths and expedite construction of government buildings and development projects. The newly created sub-districts will begin operations on October 2, with foundation stones for their permanent offices to be laid.

Himachal Congress Leadership Changes

In Himachal Pradesh, Congress MP Pratibha Singh is in Delhi to meet with party president Mallikarjun Kharge. Singh, who also serves as the state Congress president, will present a detailed report on recent Lok Sabha and Assembly byelections and discuss potential changes to the party’s state organizational structure.

July 30, 2024 0

Ind vs Arg Olympics Hockey: Harmanpreet’s Late Equalizer Rescues India, But PC Conversion Woes Persist

Paris: India's captain Harmanpreet Singh celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the Pool B hockey match between India and Argentina at the 2024 Summer Olympics, in Paris, France, Monday, July 29, 2024.

The Indian men’s hockey team faced Argentina in their second match of the Paris Olympics, resulting in a tense 1–1 draw. While Harmanpreet Singh’s last-minute equalizer saved India from a potential defeat, the team’s overall performance left much to be desired, particularly in terms of Penalty Corner (PC) conversion.

Match Highlights

India managed to take 15 shots on goal but only scored once, highlighting a sub-optimal 7% efficiency. The match against New Zealand saw a slightly better conversion rate, with India scoring thrice from 11 shots, resulting in a 27% efficiency. The stark difference in these statistics points to a significant area of concern for the team.

Early Struggles

In both matches, India conceded early goals, going down 0–1 against both New Zealand and Argentina. This pattern indicates a vulnerability in the initial stages of their games, something that needs urgent attention.

The Silver Lining

Despite these setbacks, India has managed to gather four points from two matches, trailing only Belgium and Australia in the standings. Harmanpreet Singh’s crucial late goals have been pivotal in securing these points, showcasing the team’s resilience.

On Monday, against a determined Argentina, Harmanpreet’s 58th-minute drag flick, albeit slightly lucky with a deflection, ensured that India remained unbeaten in Pool B. His late goal provided a much-needed morale boost for the team and the fans.

Statistical Concerns

A closer look at the statistics reveals the core issues. Against New Zealand, India had a PC conversion rate of 20% (one out of five), but this dropped to 10% (one out of 10) against Argentina. Harmanpreet acknowledged this shortfall, emphasizing the need for better finishing and strategy to improve their PC conversion rates.

Defensive Challenges

The goal India conceded against Argentina was a result of an unexpected error from veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who deflected a seemingly harmless shot into his own net. Such errors, though rare, highlight the unpredictability and pressure of high-stakes matches.

Looking Ahead

Despite the draw, India’s fighting spirit was evident as they continued to push for an equalizer until the final whistle. This determination will be crucial as they prepare to face Ireland next, in a match they must win to secure their position before the tougher challenges against Belgium and Australia.

Harmanpreet’s Optimism

Speaking to JioCinema, Harmanpreet expressed confidence in the team’s ability to create scoring opportunities but emphasized the need for improved execution. “We have a plan, we’re creating chances, but our finishing needs to be better,” he said.

India’s journey at the Paris Olympics continues with their upcoming match against Ireland, where they will aim to address their PC conversion issues and build momentum for the tougher games ahead.

July 30, 2024 0

When Young Sanjay Dutt ‘Proposed’ to Saira Banu: A Heartwarming Memory

Saira Banu wished Sanjay Dutt on his 65th birthday with a heartwarming note.

On Sanjay Dutt’s birthday, July 29, yesteryear actress Saira Banu shared a delightful story from his childhood. Taking to Instagram, she reminisced about the time when a young Sanjay “proposed” to her, capturing the sweet bond they’ve shared over the years.

Saira posted a touching photo of Sanjay with her late husband, the legendary Dilip Kumar, and wrote, “@duttsanjay has always been like family to me. From Ammaji to Aapaji, to Sahib, and to me, we’ve watched him grow from a tiny toddler into the remarkable person he is today.”

Saira and Dilip Kumar enjoyed a close relationship with Sanjay’s parents, Sunil Dutt and Nargis Dutt. She recalled, “When Nargis Aapa would come to our house for functions, he would accompany her – this cute, good-looking kid… Nargis Ji would then shake his hands and say, ‘Chalo, Saira Ji ko bolo tum kya bolte ho mujhe? (Tell Saira ji, what you keep telling me)’. And then Sanju would look at me and say, ‘Main Shaila Banu se shaadi karunga’ (I’ll marry Saira Banu) in a cute little voice. So adorable! I believe Sharmila Tagore and I were Sanju’s top favorites.”

She concluded her heartfelt note with, “Many hands make light work. We’ve all cherished being part of his journey. He holds a special place in my heart. With all my love and blessings, I wish him a very happy birthday.”

Sanjay Dutt, who turned 65 on Friday, was recently seen in a cameo in Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan. He will next appear in filmmaker Prem’s multilingual pan-India film KD – The Devil, where he is introduced as ‘Dhak Deva’.

July 30, 2024 0

Digitalisation: A Double-Edged Sword for Consumers and Financial Systems, Says RBI Report

Digitalisation can also create a more complex and interconnected financial system with implications for financial stability.

In its Report on Currency and Finance (RCF) for 2023–24, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) highlighted the transformative yet challenging impacts of digitalisation on consumer behavior and financial systems. Released on Monday, the report underscores how the convenience and accessibility brought by digitalisation can also lead to impulsive spending, herd behavior, and heightened risks of data breaches.

Benefits and Risks of Digitalisation

Digitalisation undoubtedly enhances the ease with which consumers can access financial services. However, it also introduces new risks. The RBI report points out that the rapid spread of financial trends and choices through digital platforms can influence consumers to follow the crowd, leading to impulsive spending and herd behavior. This is particularly evident during market frenzies, where mass buying or selling of stocks can trigger similar actions from other consumers.

Moreover, the interconnected nature of the digital financial system can complicate financial stability. For instance, widespread withdrawal of deposits due to herd behavior could lead to bank runs or failures.

Data Breaches: A Growing Concern

The report also highlights the growing threat of data breaches. In 2023, the average cost of a data breach in India was $2.18 million, marking a 28% increase since 2020. Common attacks include phishing and the use of stolen or compromised credentials. These breaches pose significant risks to both consumers and financial institutions.

Implications for Monetary Policy

Digitalisation impacts inflation, output dynamics, and the transmission of monetary policy in various ways. The report suggests that if digitalisation shifts credit supply from regulated banks to less-regulated non-banks, it could dampen the effectiveness of monetary policy. As such, central banks must integrate digitalisation considerations into their models to ensure effective monetary policy and financial stability.

Proactive Measures and International Collaboration

The RBI has been proactive in leveraging the benefits of digitalisation while mitigating associated risks. Digitalisation holds the potential to boost India’s external trade in goods and services, particularly in modern services exports. It can also reduce the cost of international remittances, benefiting recipients through higher incomes or savings.

In a significant step towards enhancing cross-border payments, the RBI joined Project Nexus, aiming to interlink domestic Fast Payments Systems (FPS) across several countries, including Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. This follows the integration of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Singapore’s PayNow, facilitating faster and more affordable remittances between the two nations. Similarly, an MoU with the Central Bank of UAE aims to link India’s UPI with UAE’s Instant Payment Platform (IPP).

The Rise of UPI

The report highlights the explosive growth of UPI, which has seen a tenfold increase in volume over the past four years. From 12.5 billion transactions in 2019–20 to 131 billion in 2023–24, UPI now accounts for 80% of all digital payment volumes in India. As of June 2024, UPI is recording nearly 14 billion transactions monthly, driven by 424 million unique users.

Future Outlook

Cross-border digital trade policies will be crucial in leveraging new opportunities and ensuring data security and cybersecurity. The internationalisation of the rupee is also progressing, supported by a comprehensive policy approach.

In summary, while digitalisation brings significant benefits, it also poses new challenges. The RBI’s report emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to harness its advantages while managing the associated risks to consumer behavior, financial stability, and data security.

July 30, 2024 0

Pernia Qureshi: A Multifaceted Journey in Fashion and Entertainment

Who is Pernia Qureshi?

Pernia Qureshi is a dynamic figure renowned for her contributions to fashion, style, and entertainment. Hailing from Pakistan, she ventured into the realms of fashion, cinema, and entrepreneurship, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Fashion Entrepreneurship:

In 2012, Pernia embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by launching Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop, an e-commerce platform revolutionizing access to Indian fashion. This venture democratized high fashion, offering curated designer collections to a broader audience. Recently, she expanded her footprint with Saritoria, promoting sustainability and conscious consumption through preloved fashion.

A Professional Dancer:

Beyond business, Pernia Qureshi is a trained Kuchipudi dancer, showcasing her dedication to Indian classical arts. Despite managing multiple ventures, she passionately pursues her love for dance, captivating audiences with her performances.

Stylist to the Stars:

Pernia’s talent transcends entrepreneurship, as evidenced by her stint as a stylist for Bollywood film “Aisha,” epitomizing elegance and sophistication on screen. Her keen eye for fashion and impeccable sense of style have earned her recognition as one of the industry’s leading influencers.

Acting Debut:

In 2015, Pernia ventured into acting with her debut in “Jaanisaar,” portraying the role of Noor Bano Begum. Her performance resonated, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Pernia seamlessly transitioned from behind the scenes to the forefront of cinema, captivating audiences with her on-screen presence and acting prowess.

Continued Impact:

Pernia Qureshi’s journey is a testament to her versatility and determination, inspiring countless individuals across fashion, entertainment, and beyond. Her innovative approach to fashion entrepreneurship, coupled with her artistic pursuits, continues to shape and redefine the industry. Whether on the runway, on screen, or in business, Pernia remains a trailblazer, continually pushing boundaries and setting new standards of excellence.

July 16, 2024 0

Uttarakhand Bypoll Analysis: BJP Admits Mistakes in Ticket Distribution

BJP state president Mahendra Bhatt, who took over as the Uttarakhand BJP chief two years ago, said at the state working committee meeting Monday that the losses were not as damaging as they seemed.

In a surprising turn of events, the recent bypolls in Uttarakhand saw the Congress clinching victory in both Assembly seats, dealing a setback to the ruling BJP. Mahendra Bhatt, the BJP state president, acknowledged that fielding turncoat leaders from other parties was a strategic error that contributed to these losses.

Analysis of Bypoll Results

Despite its resounding victory in the general elections earlier this year and its recent win in the 2022 Assembly polls, the BJP faltered in the bypolls. The party lost the Manglaur seat, historically challenging for them, and the religiously significant Badrinath seat, where they had previously held a strong position.

Mahendra Bhatt, reflecting on the outcomes, stated, “In Manglaur, where historically we have struggled, we lost by just 422 votes… In Badrinath, the contest was close throughout, with margins as slim as 200–300 votes per round. We need to thoroughly assess our strategy moving forward.”

Admission of Mistakes

One significant factor Bhatt highlighted was the decision to award tickets to leaders who had recently switched allegiance from the Congress. “During the Lok Sabha elections, we assured these leaders of tickets for the Assembly seats. In hindsight, this decision was a mistake,” Bhatt admitted during a state working committee meeting.

He further pledged to review these decisions and rectify any errors in future electoral strategies. Bhatt emphasized, “I am committed to reclaiming Badrinath for the BJP soon.”

Key Contestants and Their Backgrounds

The Badrinath bypoll saw Rajendra Singh Bhandari, a three-time Congress MLA who joined BJP earlier this year, losing to Congress’s Lakhpat Singh Butola by 5,224 votes. This loss is seen as a significant shift in the political landscape of Garhwal, where BJP previously held all 14 Assembly segments.

In Manglaur, Kartar Singh Bhadana, a recent BJP entrant from BSP and brother of noted politician Avtar Singh Bhadana, lost to senior Congress leader Qazi Nizamuddin by a narrow margin of 422 votes. This seat, traditionally contested between Congress and BSP, showcased a competitive environment.

Conclusion

The bypoll results serve as a critical reminder to the BJP of the importance of candidate selection and strategic planning. As they navigate the fallout from these losses, the party aims to regroup and strengthen its position in Uttarakhand politics.

July 16, 2024 0

Varalaxmi Sarathkumar’s Husband Nicholai Sachdev and Daughter Take Her Name: A Testament to Love and Legacy

Varalaxmi Sarathkumar tied the knot with Nicholai Sachdev on July 3.

Tamil star Varalaxmi Sarathkumar recently tied the knot with entrepreneur Nicholai Sachdev in a beautiful ceremony in Thailand on July 3. The joyous occasion saw Varalaxmi sharing numerous wedding photos on social media, capturing the hearts of fans. In an inspiring move, Nicholai has announced that he and his 15-year-old daughter, Kasha, will be adopting Varalaxmi’s name.

At a press conference in Chennai, Nicholai revealed that Varalaxmi had initially wanted to add “Sachdev” to her name post-marriage. However, he had a different idea. “She said that she wants to change her name after marriage. Of course, she’d never lose Sarathkumar in the middle, but she wanted to add Sachdev to her name. But, I will not have that,” Nicholai stated firmly.

Instead, Nicholai decided to honor Varalaxmi and her family’s legacy by taking her name. He explained, “She will always remain and retain her name as Varalaxmi Sarathkumar. I will be taking her name. I will be known as Nicholai Varalaxmi Sarathkumar Sachdev. And so will my daughter. So Sarathkumar and my wife Varalaxmi’s legacy will live on forever. That’s what I am going to do for my wife.”

Varalaxmi, the eldest daughter of veteran Tamil actor Sarathkumar and his first wife Chaya, faced some criticism for her relationship with Nicholai, who is divorced. Known for her forthright nature, Varalaxmi dismissed these negative comments, emphasizing the strength of their relationship. She told Galatta Tamil, “Even my father married twice; there’s nothing wrong with it as long as he’s happy. I’ve seen how people talk about Nick; he’s handsome in my eyes. I don’t care about people who make negative comments about our relationship. Why should I answer to anyone? From the very beginning, I have avoided doing that.”

Reflecting on her relationship with Nicholai, Varalaxmi shared that he possesses all the qualities she sought in a partner. “He makes me laugh, supports my career, and always puts me first. He’s extremely loving, pampering, and fiercely protective of me and his family. We share a love for food; he even completes my sentences. We met 14 years ago, and instantly, there was something, but we didn’t date then. We stayed in touch as friends, and it’s only recently that love blossomed,” she said.

Nicholai’s gesture of taking Varalaxmi’s name is a beautiful testament to their love and commitment, ensuring that their legacies are intertwined forever.

July 16, 2024 0