Red-hot Brandon Pfaadt tries to turn D-backs' fortunes vs. Braves

Brandon Pfaadt, unbeaten in his last three starts, will pitch Friday as the Arizona Diamondbacks face the Atlanta Braves in a crucial series for wild-card contention. Pfaadt has thrown 25 2/3 innings without an earned run. Atlanta, boasting a 9 1/2-game lead in the NL East, recently strengthened its roster with successful trades, enhancing team performance.

Hunt bags Euro sprint double, Ceh keeps discus title

Briton Amy Hunt clinched the European sprint double with a stunning 200m victory in Birmingham, clocking 22.19 seconds, while Germany dominated with five medals. Notable achievements included Kristjan Ceh’s discus title and Leo Neugebauer's decathlon gold. Mark English earned Ireland's first men’s gold, marking a highlight for the championships and setting the stage for upcoming events.

Sadhguru calls Mount Kailash the ‘greatest mystical library’. What does it mean

Mount Kailash, revered as Shiva's abode, serves as a mystical library of spiritual knowledge in yogic tradition, according to Sadhguru. He explains that Adiyogi, the first yogi, connects this sacred site with the preservation of yogic wisdom, attracting pilgrims from various religious backgrounds. This significance transcends Hinduism, encompassing Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions, marking Kailash as a vital spiritual destination.

Payton Tolle, Caleb Durbin lead Red Sox in shut out of Blue Jays

Payton Tolle pitched a two-hitter over eight innings as the Boston Red Sox defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 7-0, ending a five-game losing streak. Caleb Durbin's grand slam in the eighth broke a tight game, and he finished with three hits and five RBIs. Tolle retired the last 17 batters, striking out four. This victory came after a challenging series with Max Scherzer.

First India-Israel Hackathon draws huge response from young innovators

The first India-Israel Hackathon, focused on "Restorative Healthcare," attracted 1,300 young innovators developing tech-driven solutions for rehabilitation challenges. Notable winners included a wheelchair-mounted limb mobilisation system and a real-time video analysis tool for injury assessment. Organized by the Indian Jewish community in Israel, the event fostered collaboration and addressed 14 healthcare problems, showcasing the potential for impactful youth-led innovation.

Get to know... Sarthak Chavan

Young Indian rider makes waves in motorcycle racing, balancing competitions across FIM JuniorGP, Asia Road Racing Championship, and Indian National Championship. Achievements include becoming the youngest Premier Class National Champion in India and notable international podium finishes. Despite setbacks, like a disappointing race in Portugal, he stays focused and draws motivation from music and personal experiences.

Listicle: 10 retro bands that are trending again in 2026

Nostalgia drives a resurgence in 1990s and 2000s bands like Goo Goo Dolls, Linkin Park, and Radiohead as their music gains traction through social media and cultural reinventions. New releases, covers, and global tours attract both old fans and new generations, showcasing enduring themes of love and angst. Classic hits continue to resonate, proving timeless.

Weekend Drive by Hormazd Sorabjee: Four rings, one splash

Audi has unveiled the Q9, its largest luxury SUV yet, serving as the new flagship model. Key features include a powerful 3.0-litre V6 engine, advanced lighting technology, and a luxurious interior with premium materials. Scheduled for a 2027 launch in India, the Q9 will be locally assembled, enhancing affordability. Positioned against rivals like the Mercedes GLS, it signals Audi's ambition in the SUV market.

Spectator by Seema Goswami: How to actually use your phone less

The trend of ‘digital detox’ encourages people to disconnect from their devices, yet offers little guidance on how to cope once offline. To combat temptation, engaging in hands-on activities like knitting, family games, or nature walks can help occupy both mind and hands, reducing the urge to scroll. Rediscovering old skills can enhance this experience.

Rude Food by Vir Sanghvi: Sins of the flesh

The BBC has reported a kebab fraud in Essex, where a company allegedly misled consumers by substituting goat keema for lamb, misleading labeling that has sparked outrage despite no health risks. This incident reflects cultural biases against goat meat, highlighting similar misrepresentations in various cuisines worldwide. Such sensitivities often overshadow genuine food safety concerns.

Keys, trees, money freeze: New hacks to survive the #GrindsetMindset

In the productivity trap era, where every aspect of life must yield measurable improvements, various innovative hacks emerge to enhance efficiency. From admin parties for collective task completion to using AI for scheduling, methods like monotasking and productivity snacking help balance efforts across tasks, offering strategies to reclaim focus while combating a culture obsessed with measurable success. Historically, this obsession mirrors modern philosophies that question the value of time spent, echoing themes from The Odyssey.

Not a flex: Here’s what the internet keeps getting wrong about protein

Rising protein demand in global markets is worrying, with shortages affecting prices in countries like India, despite being the largest milk producer. Misconceptions about protein needs persist, influenced by fad diets and social media. Nutrition experts emphasize a balanced intake of protein from various sources is essential, challenging oversimplified notions of dietary protein requirements.

Chore police: Why we love watching people run errands

The rise of everyday-life content highlights a shift in social media values, moving from glamorous moments to celebrating mundane activities like grocery shopping and housework. Creators emphasize authenticity, finding comfort in ordinary routines. This content fosters connection and psychological safety, reflecting a desire for balance over perfection amidst modern fatigue from constant comparison.

The Brunch round-up for August 15: The week and how it made us feel

Ayo Edebiri will portray Snoopy in the off-Broadway production of *You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown*, a casting fans celebrate for their shared joyful spirit. In other news, an AI startup prompted risky tattoo decisions at a networking event, while Netflix’s bizarre movie promo involved a live-in billboard house. Amidst fashion shifts, Gen Z resurrects capris, embracing Y2K nostalgia.

Honour the Tiranga: Here’s the right way to display, fold, and hand it over after August 15

As Independence Day nears, millions in India prepare to display the National Flag, emphasizing responsible handling. Key rules include proper placement, avoiding contact with the ground, and maintaining decorum. Following celebrations, flags should be folded neatly and stored properly, with damaged flags disposed of respectfully through MCD collection centers, adhering to official guidelines from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Ditch Chinese manjha: Kuchu-puchu, patang udao sans Chinese manjha, says Delhi Police warning

Delhi Police issued a viral safety warning using the phrase, ‘Dear Kuchu Puchu, Patang Udao but Say NO to Chinese Manjha, Samjhe,’ to raise awareness about the dangers of Chinese manjha, a synthetic kite-flying thread banned for its hazardous nature. Recently, 1,398 illegal reels were seized in West Delhi. This thread leads to severe injuries and wildlife fatalities.

Farokh Engineer hopes to end 53-year wait for Padma Shri

Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer seeks the Padma Shri award, which he was nominated for 53 years ago but never received. A distinguished player between 1961-1975, he’s known for vital contributions in key matches, including the 1971 series in England. Support from the Mumbai Cricket Association may help him finally obtain this long-awaited honor, enhancing his impressive legacy.

Puka Nacua injury: What happened to the Rams star and when will he return?

Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua is day-to-day due to muscle soreness in his psoas following a workout setback earlier; he is expected to return to practice next week. Nacua, entering the final year of his rookie contract, led the NFL with 129 receptions in 2025. The team is cautiously managing his recovery to ensure optimal performance.

Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio: How they met, age gap explored

Karoline Leavitt, 28, and Nicholas Riccio, 60, have garnered attention for their 32-year age gap and unique love story, having met in 2022 during Leavitt's congressional campaign. Engaged in December 2023, they married in January 2025. Leavitt will step down as White House press secretary in August 2026 to prioritize family, including their two children.

Jayden Daniels jersey dispute: What did he do after LSU's DJ Pickett decision?

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, now with the Washington Commanders, expressed gratitude for his time at LSU but criticized the school for giving his former No. 5 jersey to sophomore DJ Pickett without his permission. Daniels has issued a cease-and-desist regarding the use of his name, image, and likeness, citing disappointment over the decision. His family echoed these sentiments.

Why won't your mind stop wandering during meditation?

Aathman Awareness Centre explains that a wandering mind during meditation is common and not a sign of failure; instead, it highlights thoughts typically hidden by daily distractions. Rather than forcing silence, practitioners should observe their thoughts with patience, fostering self-awareness. Meditation is a gradual journey toward stillness, often aided by guidance from a Guru.

Chicago Bears could merge 2 sites for potential stadium in northwest Indiana

The Chicago Bears are evaluating potential stadium sites in northwest Indiana, focusing on the Lost Marsh and Wolf Lake Terminal locations as they aim to finalize plans. Team President Kevin Warren emphasized that their priority is a top-tier stadium experience, with a continued commitment to remaining the Chicago Bears despite current talks. The shift follows stalled efforts for financial incentives in Illinois.

Is Nicki Minaj the new White House press secretary? Truth behind viral rumor

No, Nicki Minaj is not replacing Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary; this claim is false and originated from a parody account. Leavitt is leaving to focus on her family after serving as press secretary since January 2025. President Trump has not announced a successor but will keep Leavitt as an advisor in the Republican Party.

Draper dumped as Norrie saves face for Britain in Cincinnati

Jack Draper faced disappointment at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Masters, losing to Martin Landaluce 6-3, 7-5 after squandering six set points and committing 12 double faults. In contrast, compatriot Cameron Norrie advanced to the second round with a 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 win over Dino Prizmic and is set to play Alexander Zverev. Draper has struggled with injuries this season.

How Transcendental meditation can support your mental well-being

Mental fatigue, exacerbated by constant notifications and work pressure, can hinder concentration and emotional balance. A recent article from the Transcendental Meditation organization suggests that TM, a practice of deep mental rest practiced twice daily, may alleviate this exhaustion. Tracing its roots to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, TM promotes restful alertness through personalized instruction, addressing modern stressors.

Europe swelters under fresh wave of extreme heat

Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave, with over 135 million people facing temperatures above 35°C. In Britain, temperatures reached 38.1°C, marking its fifth-hottest day. Physicians report worsening conditions for hospital patients due to extreme heat. The heatwave, fueled by climate change, has led to wildfires, increased health risks, and highlights Europe’s vulnerability to rising temperatures.

Did Prichard Colon's parents sue Terrel Williams and referee Joe Cooper?

Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colon, who fell into a vegetative state after a 2015 fight, passed away on August 13, reigniting interest in his parents' unresolved $50 million lawsuit filed in 2017 against various parties, including Dr. Richard Ashby for negligence. Despite allegations, investigations found no regulatory violations against those involved. The lawsuit aims to address accountability in combat sports.

US could not verify Israeli warnings of Iran plots against Trump, sources say

The U.S. received alarming Israeli warnings about alleged Iranian plots to assassinate President Trump, including sniper and missile threats, prompting heightened security measures like relocating Trump during a Turkey trip. However, U.S. intelligence, particularly the CIA, expressed low confidence in some of these threats, reflecting discrepancies in assessments of Iranian intentions amid rising tensions.

Christy Knowings cause of death: How did the 'All That' star die?

Christy Knowings, the actress and comedian recognized for her role in Nickelodeon’s All That, has passed away at 46 due to complications from a severe asthma attack on August 7, which led to brain damage. Best known for her three-season stint on All That, she also appeared on Sesame Street and pursued music.

Will place BCI's directive for inquiry into CJI invite issue before Executive Council: NALSAR VC

NALSAR University of Law will present the Bar Council of India’s request for an inquiry into objections against inviting CJI Surya Kant to its convocation to its Executive Council. The BCI initially barred enrollment of 2026 graduates but quickly reversed this decision amid public outcry. The university will assess the inquiry's constitutionality before reporting back to the BCI.