Times of India

Hosts and defending champions Pakistan had a poor start in the 2025 Champions Trophy, losing to New Zealand and India. Their campaign was further hampered when a key player, Fakhar Zaman, was injured and later ruled out, impacting their overall performance. Zaman batted at No. 4, managing just 24 off 41 balls while visibly struggling, as Pakistan slumped to a 60-run loss.

Karnataka deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar's spiritual visits have triggered criticism within Congress, leading to internal tensions. Shivakumar has reacted strongly to criticism over his "spiritual" pursuits from a section of the party and has said: "I am a born Hindu and I will die as a Hindu but I love and respect all religions."

Some places in the world have a unique way of blending myth and reality. “There’s a village where even the government warns that if you enter, you will never return. This village is called Inunaki Village, and it is located in Japan. However, right outside, there are large signboards stating that Japan's jurisdiction ends there– once you step in, you're no longer in Japan.”

Pakistan and Bangladesh both exited the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 without a win. Their final match, which was rained out, saw Pakistan finishing last in the points table despite hosting the event for the first time in nearly three decades, sparking widespread disappointment and humorous memes online.

The entertainment world is abuzz with major updates! From Salman Khan unveiling the Sikandar teaser to Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, being found dead at home, to Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava inching closer to the Rs 400 crore mark in India—here are the top five entertainment stories of the day that have everyone talking!

The brutal tradition of Bacha Bazi, the sexual exploitation of young boys, continues in Afghanistan despite official bans. Military commanders secretly practice it, highlighting Taliban rule’s loopholes. A US report confirms Afghan security forces’ involvement, while similar abuse occurs in Pakistan. Victims face lifelong trauma, often turning to drugs. The West failed to curb this atrocity, leaving behind a legacy of suffering in both nations.

Former CJI DY Chandrachud highlighted the societal and enforcement responsibility in preventing incidents like the recent alleged rape case at Pune's Swargate depot. Despite legal reforms post-Nirbhaya, he emphasized that laws alone cannot prevent such crimes. Authorities are actively seeking the suspect, Dattatray Ramdas Gade, offering a reward for information leading to his capture.

Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw responded to Tamil Nadu CM Stalin's claim that Hindi imposition has eroded numerous North Indian regional languages, criticizing the CM's attempt to divide society. Stalin reiterated Tamil Nadu's readiness for another language war against the Centre's NEP, which he believes threatens regional languages and students’ futures.

Indian vice-captain Shubman Gill took part in an informal training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai on their rest day. His session was joined by throwdown specialists and some support staff members. Indian team captain Rohit Sharma's recovery from a hamstring injury will be closely monitored ahead of the game against New Zealand.

Amitabh Bachchan recently sparked concern among fans with his cryptic tweet, 'Time to go.' Addressing speculations, he clarified on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16 that the tweet referred to his work schedule and not retirement or health issues.

Akhilesh Yadav criticized PM Modi's Maha Kumbh post for not mentioning the victims of the January 29 stampede, implying that hiding the truth signifies guilt. PM Modi highlighted Maha Kumbh's unity and spiritual significance. Yadav's remarks urge recognition of both the event's grandeur and the tragedy.

​West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said what happened in the Maharashtra and Delhi elections will not have any reflection in the state and that the BJP will be finished by 2027-2029. ​Mamata made a big charge that the BJP sent an agency named Association for Billion Minds to Bengal and they are replacing Bengal voters' names with those from other states like Haryana and Gujarat.

Sidney Crosby, after leading Team Canada to victory, is unhappy with the Pittsburgh Penguins' recent performances, according to reporter Michelle Crechiolo. The team, struggling and facing criticism from fans due to their poor results, is seen as lacking focus on winning. Despite this, Crosby has not taken any rest and continues to play, seeking improvement.

Amazon has been fined $39 million by the Delhi high court for violating the 'Beverly Hills Polo Club' trademark. The lawsuit claimed that Amazon Technologies and Cloudtail India sold items under the 'Symbol' brand with the infringing mark. Amazon Seller Services was removed from the proceedings after complying with directives.

Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, reflection, and fostering connections with loved ones. The article encourages sharing heartfelt messages to spread joy, strengthen bonds, and promote peace during the holy month. Numerous sample messages are provided to inspire sending blessings and expressions of goodwill.