Times of India

Congressman Shashi Tharoor declined to comment on internal party criticism about his praise for Kerala's LDF government and PM Modi. He diverted attention to the India-Pakistan cricket match. Tharoor shared concerns about Congress's electoral prospects in Kerala, suggesting a leadership vacuum and hinting at alternative career options if not required by the party.

US President Donald Trump highlighted the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency during his speech at CPAC 2025. He further praised Tesla CEO Elon Musk, recognizing his unique naming choices and contributions. Musk humorously acknowledged the reference, linking it to his company's branding and his son’s name.

The top headlines include Guru Randhawa's injury on set, Kangana Ranaut commenting on Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez’s rumored divorce, and Sunny Deol with MS Dhoni watching the India VS Pakistan match in Dubai. Additionally, Vineeta Singh questions Shraddha Kapoor’s jewelry brand on Shark Tank India, while Samay Raina jokes amid a controversy.

Abhishek Bachchan and Karisma Kapoor’s relationship was one of the most discussed topics in Bollywood in the past. When their engagement was officially announced during Amitabh Bachchan's grand 60th birthday celebration, it sent waves of excitement across the nation. However, within a few months, the engagement was abruptly called off.

Taylor Swift fan Louisa Melcher filed for divorce from her husband after he booed the singer at the Super Bowl to impress his friends. She claimed the incident revealed deeper issues in their relationship, leading her to take this significant step to protect her emotional well-being.

BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal has countered Congress leader Rashid Alvi's criticism of the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy match, emphasizing the separation of politics and sports. Alvi questioned the government's consent for the match with a country tied to terrorism, but Khandelwal expressed confidence in the Indian team's success.

In Germany's crucial election, Friedrich Merz’s centre-right CDU leads, with far-right AfD set for its best postwar result. Economic stagnation, migration policies, and European security are top issues, while coalition formation remains uncertain amid protests and mainstream rejection of AfD.

Ranveer Allahbadia faces backlash over a controversial question on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent. Public figures, including Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, condemned him, and former WWE wrestler Sanga threatened legal action. Political and public outrage raises questions on the acceptance of offensive humor in India.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has accused the previous government led by Arvind Kejriwal of exhausting Union territory funds. Gupta, who is a first-time MLA, also assured that the BJP's promise to provide Rs 2,500 monthly to women in the capital would be implemented after thorough planning and discussions with officers.

As Bihar assembly elections approach, Tej Pratap Yadav invites Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar, to join RJD, amidst speculation about Nishant's political debut. JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar faces mounting pressure from BJP allies. RJD promises populist measures, while internal opposition conflicts persist. Currently, NDA holds 138 seats, and Mahagathbandhan has 104 seats.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed disappointment over India's decision to play their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai due to security concerns but remains confident in Pakistan's ability to host a successful ICC event. Naqvi said it was a missed opportunity for Indian players to experience Pakistani hospitality and the growth potential of cricket in the country.

The excitement for the India vs Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match in Dubai is at an all-time high, with cricket legend MS Dhoni and Bollywood star Sunny Deol watching the game together. Social media is abuzz with their appearance, enhancing the thrill of the epic cricket showdown.

Elon Musk, in his role as 'Department of Government Efficiency' czar, demanded federal employees justify their jobs weekly via email. The FBI countered, advising staff to ignore the request. President Trump supported Musk's move. The directive caused confusion among agencies, with some departments advising employees to await official guidance. Musk remains undeterred.

The finance ministry's annual report revealed that USAID funded seven projects worth USD 750 million in 2023-24, focusing on agriculture, water, renewable energy, and health. Meanwhile, a political controversy arose over allegations that USAID intended funds to enhance voter turnout ahead of the 2024 elections, which the government is investigating. Congress accused BJP of spreading fake news.

Hardik Pandya dismissed Babar Azam during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a fiery delivery. He added a bold "bye-bye" wave, sparking a lot of memes and reactions on social media. The dismissal came at a crucial moment, with Babar's wicket falling at 41 in the ninth over. India entered the match as the favourites.

Pope Francis is in a critical condition at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, raising concerns about the Vatican's leadership and the Catholic Church's future. As speculation about his possible resignation grows, there is increasing discussion about succession procedures in cases of papal incapacity.