News for 'Cultural India'

New Zealand's New Game Plan! Finn Allen To Bat In Middle Order In India ODIs

New Zealand's New Game Plan! Finn Allen To Bat In Middle Order In India ODIs

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has revealed plans to utilise explosive batter Finn Allen in a middle-order role during the upcoming ODI series against India.

Kareena Kapoor Khan Teams Up With Lando Norris

Kareena Kapoor Khan Teams Up With Lando Norris

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Kareena Kapoor Khan continues to be one of India's most prominent brand and pop-culture icons.

Modi has 'good ideas' for settlement of Ukraine conflict: Putin

Modi has 'good ideas' for settlement of Ukraine conflict: Putin

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi possesses "very good ideas" for a mutual settlement of the Ukraine conflict and consistently raises the issue in their meetings. Putin also expressed appreciation for India's cultural diversity and unity, citing Modi's insights on the coexistence of various languages.

Why India-Brazil Football Friendly Failed To Draw Crowds In Kolkata

Why India-Brazil Football Friendly Failed To Draw Crowds In Kolkata

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

A football friendly match between India and Brazil, featuring star player Vinicius Jr, saw a surprisingly low attendance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium. High ticket prices and the ongoing Durga Puja festival are cited as the primary reasons for the subdued response, contrasting sharply with the usual fan frenzy for local derbies and past international events.

Sonia Gandhi debuts on X, recalls how she met Rajiv in book preview

Sonia Gandhi debuts on X, recalls how she met Rajiv in book preview

Rediff.com1 days ago

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has made her debut on social media platform X, sharing a video about her upcoming memoir, "Belonging - a journey of love." In the video, she reminisces about meeting Rajiv Gandhi in Cambridge, describing him as gentle and good-looking, and shares details about their early romance. The book, set to launch on November 10, covers her life from childhood in Italy to her marriage, adaptation to India, family tragedies, and political journey.

'Full respect for India': Ancelotti's message before clash

'Full respect for India': Ancelotti's message before clash

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed respect for the Indian team ahead of their match in Kolkata, viewing it as an opportunity for his squad rather than a test. He discussed the challenges of managing a national team, the importance of commitment and joy in football, and the ongoing preparations for the 2026 World Cup, including significant squad changes and the blend of youth and experience. Ancelotti also reflected on Brazil's recent World Cup disappointment and the evolving nature of football.

'We Will Do It': Modi coins slogan for developed India by 2047

'We Will Do It': Modi coins slogan for developed India by 2047

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'We Will Do It' slogan, aiming for India to become a developed nation by 2047 through visionary policies and hard work, while also addressing the challenge of societal division.

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Industry experts advocate for India to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) safety framework, distinct from US or EU models, to address unique challenges like deepfakes and cyberattacks. They call for a comprehensive commitment involving all stakeholders and a hybrid regulatory approach combining voluntary and binding measures, as the Indian government also considers new AI regulations.

Sikkim Kicks Off 2026 Zabarvan Extreme Legends Series

Sikkim Kicks Off 2026 Zabarvan Extreme Legends Series

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Sikkim has hosted the inaugural leg of the 2026 Zabarvan Extreme Legends Series, an international downhill mountain biking competition. The event, featuring riders from eight countries, aims to bolster the state's adventure tourism profile. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang flagged off the competition and highlighted plans for infrastructure development to support tourism in the region.

Kuwait To Host First Asian Esports And Mind Sports Games In 2027

Kuwait To Host First Asian Esports And Mind Sports Games In 2027

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Olympic Council of Asia has signed a contract with Kuwait to host the inaugural Asian Esports and Mind Sports Games in 2027. This new continental event is expected to feature around 4,000 athletes, with discussions ongoing for the Philippines to host the second edition in 2029. Esports has evolved from a demonstration event to an official medal sport at the Asian Games, and this dedicated event offers Indian players more opportunities.

32 medals! Haryana celebrates its Asian Games stars

32 medals! Haryana celebrates its Asian Games stars

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Haryana's athletes, who secured an impressive 32 medals including 14 gold at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, received a warm welcome from Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam. The minister and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini lauded their performance, highlighting the state's significant contribution to India's overall medal tally and its strong sporting culture.

Cricketers, Olympians Extend Heartfelt Dussehra Greetings

Cricketers, Olympians Extend Heartfelt Dussehra Greetings

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian sports personalities, including Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu, and Gautam Gambhir, took to social media to extend their heartfelt Dussehra wishes to fans, emphasising the festival's message of the triumph of good over evil.

India Passes Chess Olympiad Torch To Uzbekistan For 2026 Games

India Passes Chess Olympiad Torch To Uzbekistan For 2026 Games

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The ceremonial torch for the Chess Olympiad 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, was handed over by FIDE Interim President Viswanathan Anand and AICF president Nitin Narang to Uzbek player Javokhir Sindarov. This event marks the official countdown to the prestigious team competition, continuing a tradition started by FIDE in 2022 to build excitement for the global chess event.

From Punjab to Australia: Nikhil Chaudhary's Unforeseen Cricket Journey

From Punjab to Australia: Nikhil Chaudhary's Unforeseen Cricket Journey

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Nikhil Chaudhary, who once dreamt of an IPL contract and playing for Punjab, made his international debut for Australia in a T20I against Bangladesh in June, a turn of events he describes as his "life's biggest moment" after being stranded in Australia during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown.

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

American singer Mary Millben has become a prominent figure in Indian political discourse due to her outspoken support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using social media to defend him against critics and appeal to young Indians, despite her musical career being less known in the country.

Tharoor 'thanks' Bikaner House admin amid Raihan Vadra exhibition row

Tharoor 'thanks' Bikaner House admin amid Raihan Vadra exhibition row

Rediff.com2 days ago

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticised the Bikaner House administration's decision to remove certain photographs from Raihan Vadra's exhibition before its opening. Tharoor termed the act as "petty" and "censorship," stating it casts a shadow on India's reputation as a democracy and a land of freedom of expression. He highlighted the removal of protest photographs and those featuring the tricolour, calling the decision "stupid" and counterproductive, as it has inadvertently boosted Raihan Vadra's profile.

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Zoho cofounder Sridhar Vembu dismisses exaggerated fears about AI's catastrophic potential and global development pauses. He advocates for India to adopt an independent AI strategy, fostering partnerships while avoiding entanglement in US-China tech rivalry. Vembu stresses extensive investment in foundational R&D across sectors, distinguishing it from costly frontier AI model development. He also highlights concerns about AI's impact on human judgment, skill erosion, and job disruption, particularly in software engineering, while remaining optimistic about new economic opportunities.

12 Reasons To Love Ireland

12 Reasons To Love Ireland

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

And plan your trip to the Republic.

'Indian boxers' success a proud symbol of Haryana's sporting culture'

'Indian boxers' success a proud symbol of Haryana's sporting culture'

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has lauded the state's athletes for their stellar performance at the Commonwealth Games, where India secured 16 medals on a single day, climbing to fourth in the overall standings.

Delhi's three new protest venues: What you need to know

Delhi's three new protest venues: What you need to know

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

The Delhi Police have designated three new venues for protests - Burari Ground, CBD Ground, and Ramlila Ground - after denotifying Jantar Mantar. These sites vary in size and location, with concerns raised about the impact of protests on commercial and residential areas near CBD Ground, while Burari Ground is the largest. Ramlila Maidan has a rich political history.

'You have talent': Forlan's big Indian football take

'You have talent': Forlan's big Indian football take

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Legendary Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan, now coaching Uruguay, believes India can significantly improve its football standing despite cricket's dominance. He emphasizes the importance of grassroots development, strong domestic leagues, and consistent exposure to high-level international competition to nurture young talent and elevate the sport in the country. Forlan also shared his positive experiences with Indian football passion during his ISL stint.

India's Kabaddi Queens Reign Supreme At Asian Games

India's Kabaddi Queens Reign Supreme At Asian Games

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Indian women's kabaddi captain Pushpa Rana led her team to a record-extending fourth Asian Games gold medal, defeating a strong Iranian side 37-34. Rana highlighted the team's reliance on their raiders and the pressure of maintaining India's dominance in the sport.

Churchill Brothers ISL Debut: Coach Dimitriou Sets Out His Vision

Churchill Brothers ISL Debut: Coach Dimitriou Sets Out His Vision

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Churchill Brothers, a dominant force in Indian football in the 90s, are making their Indian Super League debut against Mumbai City FC. Head coach Dimitris Dimitriou aims to establish a distinct football culture and competitive style of play for the club, despite a fast-forward pre-season.

Former France Star Vikash Dhorasoo Believes India Can Reach FIFA World Cup

Former France Star Vikash Dhorasoo Believes India Can Reach FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Vikash Dhorasoo, the first Indian-origin player in a FIFA World Cup, expresses strong belief in India's potential to reach football's biggest stage. Visiting India for a friendly match against Brazil, Dhorasoo highlights the importance of method, clear objectives, and leveraging players of Indian origin to elevate the national team's level. He also offers his coaching expertise to help develop young talent in India.

I am very proud of my Indian roots: F1 driver Arvid Lindblad

I am very proud of my Indian roots: F1 driver Arvid Lindblad

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Racing Bulls driver Arvid Lindblad, who has a British Indian mother, is increasingly vocal about his strong Indian roots, a heritage he has always been proud of.

'Everyone Used To Call Me Mamata Banerjee!'

'Everyone Used To Call Me Mamata Banerjee!'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Questions give you courage, and they also give you answers. Sometimes those answers are uncomfortable, and sometimes they are comfortable.' 'You must be able to accept both in the same stride.'

Jio Platforms IPO: What it means for Reliance's debt-free ambition and shareholder value

Jio Platforms IPO: What it means for Reliance's debt-free ambition and shareholder value

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

Jio Platforms, the digital arm of Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), is launching its initial public offering (IPO) with a price band of 1,065-1,119 a share, aiming to make RIL a net-debt-free company and create long-term shareholder value.

'A memorable day': US envoy Sergio Gor visits Golden Temple

'A memorable day': US envoy Sergio Gor visits Golden Temple

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, visited Amritsar's Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Partition Museum, calling it a "memorable day." During his visit to the Golden Temple, he was welcomed by SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, who also raised concerns about a controversial "Mr Singh" poster issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, which was later removed. Discussions also covered the Sikh community's contributions and issues in the US.

Putin to reach India on Friday to attend key BRICS Summit

Putin to reach India on Friday to attend key BRICS Summit

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India for a three-day trip to attend the 18th BRICS Summit and engage in bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The summit will focus on strengthening strategic partnerships and addressing international issues, with Putin also scheduled to meet other world leaders.

Western Australia Premier Highlights Cricket's Role In Strengthening India-Australia Relations

Western Australia Premier Highlights Cricket's Role In Strengthening India-Australia Relations

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook emphasised cricket's pivotal role in enhancing India-Australia relations, fostering business development, economic ties, and trade. He highlighted the upcoming Big Bash League match in Chennai and the opening of the University of Western Australia campus in Mumbai as key initiatives strengthening bilateral cooperation and cultural exchange.

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is set to host its first-ever T20I against reigning world champions India, a landmark event expected to significantly elevate cricket's profile and drive its long-term growth in Japan, according to JCA COO Alan Curr.

SC nixes Centre's plea in Greater Nicobar Project, HC to go ahead with hearing

SC nixes Centre's plea in Greater Nicobar Project, HC to go ahead with hearing

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to entertain the Centre's plea challenging the Calcutta High Court's decision to uphold the maintainability of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) against the Great Nicobar Island mega-infrastructure project. The PILs allege violations of the Forest Rights Act and impact on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups. The apex court directed the High Court to proceed with hearing all related petitions.

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, investigating the alleged misuse of Rs 5.10 crore in foreign donations from a non-FCRA registered Belgian entity for proselytisation activities. Two local residents are accused of receiving funds without proper registration, disguising them as educational or cultural services, and using them to influence vulnerable communities.

Shaunae Miller-Uibo's Comeback: Motherhood Fuels World Record Ambition

Shaunae Miller-Uibo's Comeback: Motherhood Fuels World Record Ambition

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Two-time Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo is targeting the women's 400m world record next season, motivated by motherhood and overcoming injury setbacks. She aims to reclaim her elite status and inspire other female athletes, while also serving as International Event Ambassador for the Delhi Half Marathon.

IAF Showcases Air Power At Tarang Shakti

IAF Showcases Air Power At Tarang Shakti

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Glimpses of Indian Air Force aircraft flying in formation during Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 in Jodhpur on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Pro Wrestling League Set For Grand Return In January

Pro Wrestling League Set For Grand Return In January

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Pro Wrestling League (PWL) is set to kick off its sixth season from January 9 to 26 next year in New Delhi, featuring 86 grapplers, including 34 international medallists. Six franchises will compete across Olympic weight categories, with Indian Asian Games medallists and Japanese Olympic champion Yui Susaki among the participants.

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India may have a vast coastline and a strategic location, but it will become a true maritime nation only when its people understand, value and actively participate in the maritime ecosystem, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu argues that predictions of AI's catastrophic outcomes are overstated and a global pause in AI development is improbable. He urges India to adopt an independent AI strategy, focusing on extensive foundational R&D across sectors, while remaining wary of market monopolisation attempts by major tech players. Vembu also highlights concerns about AI's impact on human judgment, skill development, and job markets, particularly for junior professionals.

Prakash Rajpurohit: Election Commission gets a new deputy

Prakash Rajpurohit: Election Commission gets a new deputy

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

The Centre has announced a major bureaucratic reshuffle, appointing Prakash Rajpurohit as Deputy Election Commissioner and approving appointments for 27 civil servants at joint secretary and equivalent levels across various ministries and departments.

'Airtel Will Remain An Institution Run By Professionals'

'Airtel Will Remain An Institution Run By Professionals'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

'The Rs 35,000 crore of capex every year, I don't get to sign 35 paise out of this.'