What does a Martian summer look like? NASA’s Curiosity captures stunning views

NASA's Curiosity rover has captured a stunning panorama from Mount Sharp, showcasing the Martian summer and the Gale Crater's landscape. Composed of 323 images, the scene reveals dusty atmospheric conditions and unusual geological features. Since landing in 2012, Curiosity has ascended over 1.35 kilometers, exploring the planet's environmental history and signs of ancient liquid water.

NEET-UG Admissions: Maha cuts local student share to 40% in 3 private varsities

Maharashtra NEET-UG admissions are now confusing for medical students as a new provision limits domicile seats at three newly privatized colleges to 40%, increasing out-of-state seats from 15% to 60%. Concerns have arisen over this change's impact on local applicants and potential fee increases. The state is finalizing private status for these institutions, which could affect future admissions.

Yayoi Kusama controversy: Who was late Japanese artist who died at 97

Japanese avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama, famed as the "polka dot queen," passed away at the age of 97 in a Tokyo hospital on August 14, 2026, as confirmed by her studio. Born in Matsumoto, Japan, in 1929, she became a pivotal figure in modern art through her innovative contributions to painting, sculpture, and immersive installations.

Planning to buy bonds? Run this checklist

Understanding bonds requires knowledge of their unique mechanics and terms, crucial for first-time buyers. Key concepts include pricing in units and interest calculations. This article offers essential terminology and a practical checklist to guide new investors before making purchases. Background context underscores the complexity of bonds, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation and understanding in the investment journey.

Raksha Bandhan 2026 recipes: Surprise your siblings with peanut butter laddus

Chef Kunal Kapur shared a quick and healthy peanut butter laddu recipe on Instagram, perfect for Raksha Bandhan celebrations. The recipe combines dried coconut, cashews, and peanut butter, resulting in a sweet treat. It emphasizes the joy of cooking for loved ones during the festival, which celebrates the sibling bond through sweets and rituals.

The Traitors 2: Shahneel Gill gets evicted after Tanya Puri's master move

Indian cricketer Shubman Gill's sister, Shahneel, was eliminated from *The Traitors 2* after failing to recall details from a crucial letter, leading to suspicions of deceit. Fellow contestants praised her gameplay, with Rhea calling her a "boss woman." Viewers dividedly reacted, with some labeling her exit as "karma," while others condemned the show for being scripted. The season premiered on August 13.

Gandak surge eases; Bihar embankments withstand after Nepal upstream floods

Flash floods in Nepal and Tibet caused a surge in the Gandak River, prompting the evacuation of over 4,000 people in Bihar. As water levels began to recede, officials confirmed no damage to embankments. The floods, linked to heavy rainfall, killed 160, with many unaccounted for, mainly from a pilgrimage. Authorities maintained alerts across Bihar districts.

Planning to buy MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV? 5 facts you must know

JSW MG Motor India has launched the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV, a plug-in hybrid SUV priced between Rs 25.69 lakh and Rs 27.79 lakh, featuring a unique design and a seven-seater configuration. A battery-as-a-service scheme reduces the price to Rs 21.79 lakh. Bookings are open now, with test drives starting November 2026, and the vehicle includes a three-year warranty.

For everything from troubled hearts to lost keys, Greeks bake cakes for a wish-granting saint

Thousands gathered at the Church of St. Fanourios in Greece on Wednesday night to honor the patron saint of lost-and-found, seeking solace through orange-flavored cakes. Many shared personal petitions for relief from various losses, reflecting deep faith. Celebrations include the traditional Fanouropita cake, with priests blessing offerings at this long-standing community event that emphasizes spiritual support.

Mbappe hits treble as Real Madrid thrash Real Sociedad

Kylian Mbappe's hat-trick propelled Real Madrid to a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in Jose Mourinho's first home match back at Santiago Bernabeu. Vinicius Junior also scored, while Jude Bellingham provided two assists. Mourinho praised the team's performance and hinted at finding synergy among his star players, setting a promising tone for the season.

UPTET Result 2026 declared at upessc.up.gov.in, direct link to check scorecard

The Uttar Pradesh Education Service Selection Commission (UPESSC) has announced the UPTET Result 2026, with results available on their official site. Approximately 88.77% of the 1,994,661 registered candidates took the exam, conducted from July 2-4. Successful candidates, including 80.07% at the primary level and 71.85% at the upper primary level, gain lifetime eligibility certification.

E10 petrol may make a comeback - but as a premium fuel: Report

The Indian government is considering selling premium petrol brands with a 10% ethanol blend to provide E10 options for older vehicles, avoiding separate infrastructure. This comes amid concerns about E20’s impact on fuel economy. The discussions involve major oil companies and aim to address consumer worries about mileage and compatibility, amidst a growing trend towards premium fuels.

What a neurosurgeon wants you to know about protecting your brain

Neurosurgeon Dr. Stefan Thomas Lang emphasizes the critical need for discussions about medical wishes, highlighting life’s fragility and the significance of family conversations before emergencies. He stresses simple precautions to avoid neurosurgical issues, such as wearing helmets and managing high blood pressure, which can prevent severe brain injuries. Lang's expertise stems from extensive education in neuroscience and surgery.

Sensex, Nifty open higher, then dip amid expectations Hormuz opening

Sensex and Nifty opened higher Thursday as falling oil prices raised hopes for renewed access to the Strait of Hormuz. GIFT Nifty futures indicated a positive start, following Wednesday's close. While sectors like IT and FMCG struggled, firms like Kotak Mahindra Bank performed well. Indian markets had a slight dip on Wednesday due to profit-taking amid rising crude oil prices.

‘India is far superior to Italy’: Indian man complains after bad experience

An Instagram user, Binny, claimed that India surpasses Italy in public transportation quality, highlighting the absence of air conditioning on a train trip from Sorrento to Naples. He criticized the heat and lack of basic amenities, prompting mixed online reactions. While some agreed, praising India's comforts, others defended Italy's cleanliness and infrastructure, spotlighting diverse experiences abroad.

Carse nightclub drama takes fresh turn as police launch assault investigation

Derbyshire Police are investigating allegations of assault linked to England fast bowler Brydon Carse's nightclub incident, which led to his removal from the squad for the second Test against Pakistan. Initially arrested for being drunk and disorderly, he was later de-arrested. The ECB has launched its own investigation, while Captain Joe Root expressed frustration over the situation.

At Kanakakkunnu, Onam finds new rhythm

The Onam celebration at Kanakakkunnu palace in Thiruvananthapuram merges Kerala’s traditional arts with modern digital experiences, inviting active participation from visitors. Organized by the Department of Tourism, the event runs until August 29, culminating in a grand procession. This unprecedented celebration emphasizes authentic engagement with Keralam's rich cultural heritage while promoting local artists and startups.

Annie Potts not dead: Fact-checking wild claims amid post for Tim Curry

Annie Potts, famed for her roles in Ghostbusters and Young Sheldon, is alive despite alarming social media rumors indicating her death on August 26, 2026, in Nashville. Potts resides in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, and her Wikipedia page confirms she is alive. This misinformation has circulated largely due to misleading online searches.

Last-minute Rakhi gifts for your little sister: From plush toys to cute dresses

In need of a Rakhi gift? Consider age-appropriate beauty and self-care goodies like gentle pampering kits, cute hair accessories, and plush toys that resonate with her playful side. Personalised jewelry and stylish dresses also make heartfelt choices. Prioritize thoughtful, practical gifts that reflect her interests, ensuring a memorable Rakhi celebration without an elaborate search.

Your perfume doesn’t need a gender: The rise of gender-fluid fragrances

The fragrance industry is evolving beyond traditional gender categories, with brands like CUNIN introducing gender-fluid scents focused on personal identity. CUNIN's debut line features six fragrances named after personality traits, promoting self-expression over binary marketing. This shift reflects broader changes in fashion and beauty, allowing consumers greater freedom in scent selection based on mood rather than gender expectations.

Audi Q3: 5 things to know before you finalise the luxury SUV

Audi India is expanding its market presence, launching the new Q3 SUV as part of a strategy to double its 8% market share in three years. The company will also introduce the next-gen A5 and Q9 by 2027 and increase its showroom count to 40. The Q3, priced from Rs 43 lakh, features a major design overhaul and familiar engine specifications.

IIT-Delhi reconstitutes committee to probe MSc student’s suicide, protest enters 4th day

The Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi has reconstituted an external probe panel to investigate the death of an MSc Physics student, led by retired judge Mukta Gupta, following former chair Ashok Kumar's recusal. The student allegedly died by suicide on August 22, sparking protests. Police are investigating potential abetment and reviewing counselling records.

Samay jokes about his run-in with cyber cell as Maharashtra CM felicitates him

Maharashtra Cyber Cell has intensified its efforts, exemplified by a notable incident where an officer visited comedian Samay Raina's home for questioning related to his YouTube show, facing allegations of obscenity. At a Mumbai event with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Samay was felicitated for contributions to a cyber-awareness initiative. His show, India’s Got Latent, is set for a return.

Nancy Guthrie: ‘Porch guy's’ ski mask found? Alleged dispatch call surfaces

In a recent development in the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case, an alleged dispatch call claims a woman found a ski mask matching that of a masked suspect known as ‘Porch Guy’. Guthrie, mother of TODAY’s Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on February 1, with no suspects named. However, authorities, including the FBI, confirm no new evidence has surfaced.

Ice wall collapse in Nepal kills 160; Yash's Toxic explodes on Day 1 | Top news

A devastating ice, mud, and rock collapse near Nepal's border with China has killed 160 people and left at least 750 missing, including 133 Indians, primarily Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrims. The flooding ravaged roads, bridges, and homes across six districts, significantly altering Nepal's landscape overnight. This tragedy highlights the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.

7 killed after private bus collides with auto in Andhra’s Palnadu district: Police

Seven people died and eight others, including four children, were injured in a collision between a private bus and an auto-rickshaw in Andhra Pradesh's Palnadu district. The victims, returning from a birthday celebration, were from Veluru village. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed condolences and emphasized quality medical care for the injured.

Political rivals step up efforts to woo women as 2027 battle draws closer

The BJP and Samajwadi Party are intensifying efforts to attract women voters for the crucial 2027 elections. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has launched initiatives like free bus travel for women over 60 and scooter giveaways for female students. The BJP emphasizes women’s empowerment through various schemes, aiming to enhance their workforce participation to 50%. Women-centric initiatives have been a focal point since 2017.

₹40,000, free laptops to girl students: SP woos women ahead of UP polls

The Samajwadi Party (SP) unveiled extensive welfare schemes for women in Uttar Pradesh, including ₹40,000 annually for below-poverty-line women, free laptops for female students, and free transport for school girls, ahead of the 2027 elections. Akhilesh Yadav emphasized women’s empowerment and safety, criticizing the ruling BJP's efforts and promising phased implementation of these initiatives. Historically, the SP has championed women’s rights, creating significant programs during previous tenures.

Yogi launches lifelong free travel on state-run buses for 60+ women

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the ‘Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra’ scheme, offering free bus travel for women aged 60 and above, promoting mobility and dignity. He emphasized increased women's workforce participation and security initiatives. As a Raksha Bandhan gesture, all women can travel free with a companion from August 27 to 29. The initiative aims to empower women in Uttar Pradesh.

Amid sugar price hike, sweets market sees mixed trend in Lucknow ahead of Raksha Bandhan

Sweets market trends show mixed pricing strategies ahead of Raksha Bandhan due to rising ingredient costs, with sugar increasing from Rs 45 to Rs 66-70 per kg and other key materials like almonds and LPG seeing significant price hikes. While some shops bear costs for emotional reasons, others plan immediate price increases, anticipating further adjustments by Diwali amid ongoing inflation pressures.