Bonnet ‘drama’: Driver arrested; cops probe new videos, counter-claims

Lucknow police arrested Shahnawaz Ahmed, 27, driver of a car involved in a viral incident where a 22-year-old woman clung to its bonnet. He faces charges including attempted murder and abuse. The confrontation occurred after an argument near Janeshwar Mishra Park. Investigations are ongoing, focusing on additional videos and the role of his friend.

India secures EU steel quota, seafood and shipbreaking concessions ahead of FTA

India has secured favorable concessions in steel, fisheries, and shipping from the EU as negotiations progress on a significant free trade agreement (FTA), expected to be signed by December for early 2027 operationalization. Key concessions include a quota for 2.8 million tonnes of steel exports and approval for seafood exports, enhancing India's market access in the EU.

Russia’s sham election is descending into farce

Russian parliamentary elections, termed a “special electoral operation,” commence on September 18, marked by absurdity and voter apathy. Candidates face intimidation, with the FSB enforcing strict controls. Surveys indicate significant disinterest, revealing widespread frustration over the war in Ukraine and a distrust in the electoral process. Historically, these elections masked discontent; this time, citizens are less engaged.

Julian Assange announces return to X after 2 years

Julian Assange, released from Belmarsh Prison on June 24, 2024, has returned to social media after a two-year hiatus from his X account. His account, which disappeared briefly in 2017, went silent post-release until he announced his comeback with a photo in Sydney. Assange had served a sentence for conspiracy tied to classified documents. He now resides in Australia with family.

Pakistan imposes lockdown-like steps amid fuel crisis: Travel ban, markets shut

Pakistan is facing a severe fuel crisis exacerbated by rising global oil prices due to ongoing conflicts in West Asia, leading to austerity measures, including a 50% cut in government fuel allocations and tighter market hours. Citizens struggle with rising petrol and diesel prices, compounded by difficulties accessing government subsidies to alleviate costs, as reported by Reuters.

‘Tata model has to be saved’: Noel Tata pushes back public listing of Tata Sons

Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata opposes Tata Sons' potential public listing, deeming it detrimental to the firm’s character and purpose. He emphasized that the trust model focuses on charity and public welfare, stressing a prior consensus to remain unlisted. Listing would compromise Tata Trusts' influence and prioritize financial returns over community-oriented initiatives essential to the Tata ethos.

Canada trade minister set to visit India, hold talks on trade deal

Canada’s Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu is visiting India on September 18-19 to accelerate negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA). This visit aims to strengthen trade ties between Canada and India, a rapidly growing economy, through meetings with Indian officials. CEPA talks have reached their fourth round, with a goal to conclude by December, coinciding with a planned visit from Modi to Canada for the signing ceremony.

‘I’m a ghost’: India’s MMA fighter exposes Asian Games chaos, then deletes posts

Varun Sanyal, Indian bronze medallist at the Asian Championships, faced severe organizational chaos upon arriving in Japan for the Asian Games, where MMA debuts. Athletes, including Sanyal, experienced delays, missing accommodations, and double bookings on a cruise ship. He criticized the inadequate arrangements, noting similar complaints from other nations, highlighting the event's disarray amid preparations.

5 headphones faced meetings, music and office noise. Here is what I found

The CMF Headphone Pro is highly praised for its 50-hour battery life, effective ANC, and sound quality, appealing to users for work and leisure. While many appreciate its comfort and connectivity, some find it lacks loudness. With dual-device pairing and customizable sound options, it's a compelling choice for diverse listening needs, balancing performance and ease.

US midterms 2026: Why Republicans are defending more red states

Republicans face challenges in traditionally safe districts as the 2026 midterms approach, with competitive races in Georgia, Kansas, and Nebraska. Polls show Democrats gaining ground, exacerbated by rising economic concerns and high fuel prices. Both parties are contesting more seats, expanding the electoral battlefield into regions once secure for Republicans, signaling a potentially turbulent election.

Want to keep your brain resilient as you age? Expert shares 7 everyday habits

Chronic insomnia raises cognitive impairment by 40%, highlighting the urgency for brain health as India’s elderly population nears 340 million by 2050. Key preventive habits include regular checkups, daily movement, mindful eating, social connections, and mental engagement. These lifestyle changes can build cognitive reserve, protecting against dementia and cognitive decline as age advances.

16-year-old gang-raped by 4 teens, found stabbed to death days later in Delhi

Four teenagers, including one adult, have been arrested for the gang-rape and murder of a 16-year-old girl in north Delhi, whose body was discovered on September 13. The suspects, aged 19, 17, and 16, are linked to brutal stabbings after the girl was assaulted. The police are continuing their investigation to uncover all involved and secure necessary evidence.

Pet hair and paw marks ruining furniture? 5 expert tips to protect interiors

To create a pet-friendly yet stylish home, choose tightly woven, stain-resistant performance fabrics in mid-tone colors and subtle patterns to camouflage pet hair and reduce cleaning. Opt for abrasion-resistant upholstery and curtains that drape above floors. Expert Simone Arora emphasizes the importance of selecting durable materials to maintain elegance without sacrificing comfort for pets.

Mars enters Cancer on September 18, 2026: What this transit means for you

Mars enters Cancer on September 18, 2026, instigating an emotionally charged period affecting careers, finances, and relationships until November 12. While Mars is traditionally debilitated in Cancer, its conjunction with exalted Jupiter may counter this. Astrologers advise caution against impulsive decisions and underscore the importance of patience during this transit period. Background details on astrological implications are included.

Bengaluru parent flags Varthur traffic after school bus takes 2 hours for 2 km

A Bengaluru parent expressed frustration over his daughter's school bus taking two hours to cover just 2 km on Varthur-Gunjur road, highlighting ongoing traffic and safety concerns. Users on social media echoed his sentiment, lamenting years of unaddressed issues and demanding accountability from authorities. Many residents seek safer infrastructure for their children amid rising development.

SC awards ₹12 lakh to Haryana woman denied Indian Oil Corporation job in 1988

The Supreme Court ordered Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) to pay ₹12 lakh to Haryana's Sumitra, denied a helper’s job in 1988 due to gender bias. Justice Kumar condemned this as disrespect to womanhood, noting her long fight for justice. Despite being qualified, she was overlooked because of her gender, highlighting persistent discrimination in employment.

Get to know... Mihir Ahuja

Actor expresses excitement over the success of "Operation Safed Sagar" on Netflix, highlighting the adrenaline rush of moving to Mumbai for his career despite the sacrifice of leaving family. He enjoys music, cherishes family Sundays, and strives for authenticity in a world of fame that brings both love and heavy expectations. A personal motto is to "believe in yourself."

Listicle: 10 animals who are more talented than most hoomans

India's first canine painter, Labrador Dali, creates masterpieces with custom paintbrushes, raising funds for fellow dogs. Accompanied by her artist humans, Dali showcases her talents on Instagram (@Im.Labrador.Dali). Other talented pets include Butter the traveler, Didga the skateboarding cat, and Apollo the clever parrot, each promoting unique causes and achieving remarkable feats.

Drawing Room: Yasha Shrivastava on Bhupen Khakhar’s polarising art

Bhupen Khakhar, a polarising figure in Indian art, faced harsh criticism during a 2016 Tate retrospective that proclaimed his work “old-fashioned.” Yet, his unique ability to depict personal experiences and societal taboos through vibrant humor reshapes Indian art. Emerging in the 1960s, Khakhar's legacy challenges definitions of artistic value, underscoring his self-acceptance and modernity.

Phoebe Dynevor posts 1st pictures from her Provence wedding to Cameron Fuller

Actor Phoebe Dynevor and producer Cameron Fuller secretly married in a romantic ceremony at an 18th-century chateau in Provence, celebrated by family and friends. After the wedding, they shared intimate photos online, with Phoebe calling Cameron her "best friend" and Cameron referring to her as "wifey." The couple's heartfelt posts delighted fans and showcased their joy.

Spectator by Seema Goswami: We need a new POV

An encounter with an Italian woman rekindled a love for ordinary life in Delhi, sparking a personal journey of rediscovery. Her Instagram posts highlighted everyday beauty, prompting the writer to appreciate their surroundings anew. Exploring local attractions and indulging in simple pleasures can reignite fondness for one's city and life, encouraging others to do the same.

Rude Travel by Vir Sanghvi: Take a reign check

The Michelin hotel key system for India faces criticism, as it lacks reliability in evaluating Indian hotels. Only two, Udaipur's Lake Palace and Hyderabad's Falaknuma Palace, received three keys, sparking confusion given India's rich hoteliering tradition. Despite this, Falaknuma stands out, reflecting historical splendor, while Hyderabad's culinary landscape shifts away from its Nizami heritage towards Middle Eastern cuisine.

30 Things to Know Before You Turn 30: The Wellness Edition

As you approach 30, prioritize intentional intimacy, physical capability, self-awareness, and emotional well-being, as experts suggest. This decade prompts necessary shifts in health, decision-making, and self-acceptance, where it's crucial to prioritize sleep, nourish your body, and set boundaries. Embrace changes and craft your own definition of wellness, leaving behind age-old myths of youth.

Bae-cation: Singles are taking holidays to find love

Singles in their 20s to 40s are flocking to matchmaking trips, like the recent event in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh, organized by Capture a Trip, aimed at fostering romance through engaging activities such as trekking and social games. Established entrepreneurs have reported successful matches, emphasizing a relaxed, organic setting over algorithms. Many leave with new connections, if not love.

Hard reset: Re-wire your brain without falling for gimmicks

Neuroplasticity, a scientific term misused in social media, signifies the brain's ability to adapt through repetitive activities. Myths include the fallacy that rewiring takes 21 days, dopamine detox resets brain chemistry, and positive thinking alone can effect change. Actual neuroplasticity requires sustained effort over time, emphasizing careful practice and understanding of the brain's complexities.

The Brunch round-up for September 19: The week and how it made us feel

Wikipedia is engaging users with a new guessing game on Instagram featuring images from its articles. In wine news, increased summer heat in France is allowing champagne production with higher alcohol content. Guinness World Record holder Leah Shutkever set a mukbang record, while Netflix documents competitive eating. Other highlights include a nail-polish pen invention and a partnership for fitness-focused blind dates.

EU gets serious about social media’s dangers

The European Commission plans to prohibit children under 13 from using social media within the EU. President Ursula von der Leyen announced tiers for online access, emphasizing age-appropriate protections and requiring platforms to ensure safety. The initiative draws lessons from Australia’s experience and proposes significant fines for non-compliance, pending cooperation from member states and successful age verification mechanisms.

Assert autonomy, build capacity

The US Congress passed a significant bill targeting Russia’s economy, potentially imposing tariffs on buyers of Russian oil like India and China. President Trump is expected to approve it, stressing "America first" diplomacy amidst bipartisan criticism. India plans to safeguard its trade interests while asserting strategic autonomy. The legislation adds uncertainty to international trade dynamics.

Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar: Luv Ranjan to introduce 6 new faces in next film

Filmmaker Luv Ranjan announced his new project, *Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar*, featuring six debutants and set for release on October 23, 2026. The film explores themes of friendship and love. Ranjan's recent work includes directing *Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar*, a success that grossed Rs 223 crore, and he is producing a biopic on cricketer Sourav Ganguly.

UPI charge akin to ‘chungi’, aims to extract money from people: Akhilesh

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP government for introducing a Merchant Discount Rate on UPI transactions, comparing it to outdated toll practices and claiming it exploits citizens. He accused the government of rampant corruption, poor infrastructure, and rising crime rates, particularly against women. Yadav promised job creation under a future SP government and emphasized support for artisans. Additionally, former BJP minister Ram Asrey Kushwaha rejoined the SP, strengthening its base.