Times of India

Born months after the Fukushima nuclear disaster forced his parents to leave Japan, Ethan Vaz's journey to becoming India's 96th Grandmaster at just 14 has been defined by sacrifice and remarkable family support. From replacing cartoons with chess to navigating financial uncertainty, Ethan's rise mirrors both extraordinary talent and a family's all-in pursuit of a dream.

Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill recently shared a memorable encounter with football legend Ronaldinho at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States. This meeting of sporting icons has captivated fans online. Gill's career is soaring, having recently reached No. 2 in the ICC ODI batting rankings. Meanwhile, Ronaldinho is making headlines again with a new signing in Italian football.

'Welcome to the Jungle', starring Akshay Kumar, has burst onto the silver screen, achieving a remarkable Rs 39 crore net debut in India over its opening weekend. Fans are embracing the film's playful nostalgia and ensemble talent, though reviews hint at some recycled humor reminiscent of earlier installments. Still, the sequel to the beloved 'Welcome' series has enjoyed a positive reception, captivating viewers in search of comedy.

The US launched fresh strikes on Iran after accusing Tehran of violating a ceasefire for a second consecutive day by attacking a commercial oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz. This follows US retaliation for a drone attack on another vessel. Iran has warned of a "practical response" to the US actions, escalating regional tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

A chilling murder plot unfolded in Pune as a couple, Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary, meticulously planned realtor Ketan Agrawal's death. Online searches for murder methods and rehearsed attempts at Lohagad Fort reveal the premeditated nature of the crime. Driven by social pressures and a desire to prevent an arranged marriage, the duo executed their plan, making the fatal push appear accidental.

Venezuela is grappling with a fresh 5.6 magnitude earthquake, compounding the devastation from earlier twin quakes that claimed over 1,430 lives. Rescue efforts are ongoing amidst widespread destruction, with thousands injured and homeless. International aid is arriving as authorities work to restore power and address critical shortages in the hardest-hit areas, while the UN estimates significant economic losses.