Lexington High School lockdown: Sheriff's update on ‘threat’

Lexington High School in South Carolina was locked down Wednesday due to a low-level threat, confirmed by the Lexington County Sheriff's Department. A significant police presence responded to ensure safety while allowing only law enforcement on campus. Social media revealed security footage of officers entering the school. This situation is ongoing as authorities continue their investigation.

Fide Chess Olympiad: Gukesh drops below 2700 as India defeat Indonesia

India's defending champions face challenges at the Fide Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, narrowly defeating Indonesia 2.5-1.5. Nihal Sarin's crucial win offset Arjun Erigaisi's opening loss and brought the only full point. Despite India’s strong performance in the women's section, top teams struggled, highlighting surprises like Norway's loss to Kenya. The competition continues to unfold.

Freestyle coach Shako insists on high-level training partners and longer camps

Georgian coach Shako Bentinidis emphasizes the need for quality training partners and disciplined practices to help India’s freestyle wrestlers succeed, particularly ahead of the Asian Games and the Los Angeles Olympics. While he praises the team's spirit, he warns that the lack of high-level opponents can hinder progress. Shako advocates for a unified training approach to enhance competition and mindset.

Mortgage rates today after Fed hike: Why US home loan rates may stay above 7%

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to a target of 3.75% to 4% for the first time in over three years, aiming to control persistent inflation. This hike may signal further increases, impacting borrowers and savers alike. Mortgage rates have surged to over 7%, with buyers facing higher costs. The decision to buy or refinance now hinges on individual financial circumstances.

Where US-Iran war stands, what's next for conflict: Latest in West Asia crisis

Tensions in the Middle East persist as the Iran-US war continues after seven months, with US President Trump set to meet Gulf leaders during the UN General Assembly to discuss a postwar strategy. Recent talks between Iranian and UAE leaders indicate a desire to move forward, despite ongoing allegations of war crimes against both the US and Iran.

ECI reserves TMC symbol amid tiff, asks Mamata, rebel factions to pick new names

The Election Commission of India reserved the Trinamool Congress’ “Flowers & Grass” election symbol amid internal disputes, prohibiting both Mamata Banerjee’s and Ritabrata Banerjee’s factions from using the party name or symbol during ongoing by-elections. This decision is temporary while the matter is under review, highlighting the party's current divisions and electoral challenges.

Mirzapur The Movie box office collection day 14: Film crosses ₹200 cr in 2 weeks

**Mirzapur: The Movie** has surpassed Rs 200 crore at the domestic box office, earning Rs 202.84 crore by its 14th day after a dip in collections. Despite stiff competition and a second-week decline, it remains one of the year's top-grossing Bollywood films. Directed by Gurmeet Singh, it debuted on September 4 and sparked a recent controversy over a song’s use.

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.