News for 'First World'

How Sharmila Dhankar Overcame Adversity To Win India's First Para-Athletics Gold In 20 Years

How Sharmila Dhankar Overcame Adversity To Win India's First Para-Athletics Gold In 20 Years

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sharmila Dhankar, overcoming polio and an abusive marriage, made history by winning India's first para-athletics gold medal in 20 years at the Commonwealth Games in the women's shot put F57 event. Her compatriot Shilpa Shyla also secured a bronze after a protest. Dhankar's inspiring journey from Haryana to international success, supported by her family and second husband, highlights her remarkable resilience and dedication to para-athletics.

Like Akshaye Khanna's Shukracharya Look In Mahakali?

Like Akshaye Khanna's Shukracharya Look In Mahakali?

Rediff.com7 days ago

Akshaye Khanna makes a striking Telugu cinema debut as the formidable Shukracharya in the newly unveiled glimpse of Mahakali.

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Asian Tour, DP World Tour, and PGA TOUR have announced a significant partnership extending until at least 2029. This alliance aims to enhance commercial and playing opportunities, establish pathways for Asian Tour members, and will see the DP World Tour co-sanctioning events with the Asian Tour again, marking a new era for professional golf globally and a potential setback for LIV Golf.

Olympic Gold Medallist Arshad Nadeem Faces NOC Controversy

Olympic Gold Medallist Arshad Nadeem Faces NOC Controversy

Rediff.com5 days ago

Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem is embroiled in a controversy with the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for travelling to South Africa for training without obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This unapproved travel could impact his participation in upcoming international competitions like the World Ultimate Athletics Championship and the Asian Games.

Badminton star Antonsen says India Open should be played outside Delhi winter

Badminton star Antonsen says India Open should be played outside Delhi winter

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

World No. 4 badminton player Anders Antonsen has called for the India Open tournament to be moved from its traditional January-February slot due to severe winter pollution in New Delhi. He described the conditions as "insane" and "not pleasant to play in," causing a burning sensation and poor visibility. Antonsen believes the current time of year is much better for hosting such events.

Netflix To Release New South Indian Film Every Week

Netflix To Release New South Indian Film Every Week

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Netflix India is significantly expanding its South Indian content, planning to release at least one Tamil, Telugu, or Malayalam film every week for the rest of the year, featuring highly anticipated titles like Dhanush's OM - Chapter 1: Udhiram and Vijay Deverakonda's Ranabaali.

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Didier Deschamps has revealed that a "stifling atmosphere" around him led to his decision to step down as France coach after 14 years.

Essel Group's Subhash Chandra calls for independent audit of debt, claims Rs 43,000 crore repaid

Essel Group's Subhash Chandra calls for independent audit of debt, claims Rs 43,000 crore repaid

Rediff.com2 days ago

Essel Group founder Subhash Chandra has called for an independent audit to examine the group's borrowings, defaults, and repayments, stating that approximately 43,000 crore of its 45,000 crore total debt has been repaid.

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

'That's not just a football victory -- that's the heartbeat of an entire nation'

Carlos Alcaraz returns from long injury layoff with US Open title defence in sight

Carlos Alcaraz returns from long injury layoff with US Open title defence in sight

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Carlos Alcaraz returns at the US Open after a four-month wrist injury layoff, aiming to defend his title and reignite his Grand Slam campaign.

Norris chooses McLaren over rivals in major F1 move

Norris chooses McLaren over rivals in major F1 move

Rediff.com2 days ago

Formula One world champion Lando Norris has announced a contract extension with McLaren until at least the end of 2030, expressing his desire to spend his entire career with the team.

How Indian Table Tennis Doubles Pairs Are Dominating World Rankings

How Indian Table Tennis Doubles Pairs Are Dominating World Rankings

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian table tennis has achieved a significant milestone with three doubles pairs entering the top 10 of the ITTF World Rankings. Manav Thakkar and Manush Shah reached World No. 2 in men's doubles, while Diya Chitale and Yashaswini Ghorpade are World No. 10 in women's doubles, and Diya Chitale and Shah are World No. 5 in mixed doubles. This marks the first time India has had three doubles pairs simultaneously in the top 10, underscoring the nation's growing strength in the sport, especially with doubles returning to the Olympics in 2028.

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia believes Lionel Messi needs to win the 2026 World Cup to truly equal Diego Maradona's legendary status, despite Messi's 2022 triumph. Bhutia rates Maradona higher due to his single-handed 1986 World Cup victory, while also tipping Spain as slight favourites over Argentina in the upcoming final.

Bhaker, Kusale Spearhead India's Challenge At ISSF World Cup In China

Bhaker, Kusale Spearhead India's Challenge At ISSF World Cup In China

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

India has dispatched a formidable contingent, including Olympic medallists Manu Bhaker and Swapnil Kusale, to the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, China.

Alonso's Chelsea kick off season with thrilling win at Fulham

Alonso's Chelsea kick off season with thrilling win at Fulham

Rediff.com6 days ago

Chelsea secured a breathless 3-2 victory over West London rivals Fulham in Xabi Alonso's first Premier League match as coach, with goals from Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer.

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has faced heavy criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, but he attributes the loss to fundamental issues like a lack of 'ball possession DNA' rather than just tactical errors, while acknowledging the unstoppable brilliance of Lionel Messi.

Balanced Indian Women's Hockey Squad Gears Up For World Cup

Balanced Indian Women's Hockey Squad Gears Up For World Cup

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Indian women's hockey squad for the upcoming World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands has been announced, featuring the same 20 players selected for the Asian Games. Led by Salima Tete and coached by Sjoerd Marijne, the team is described as well-balanced, combining experienced players with promising young talent, fresh off an unbeaten victory at the FIH Nations Cup.

India-Pakistan Handshake Stirs Debate

India-Pakistan Handshake Stirs Debate

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Wednesday's India-Pakistan World Cup match in Amstelveen saw players exchange handshakes, a gesture that has become contentious in India-Pakistan sporting encounters, particularly in cricket. While the Indian team dominated on the field, winning 5-3, the post-match handshakes led to mixed reactions online, highlighting the differing approaches to rivalry in hockey versus cricket.

FIFA World Cup Favourite Revealed Ahead of Semi-Finals

FIFA World Cup Favourite Revealed Ahead of Semi-Finals

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn offers his expert analysis on the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, highlighting tactical discipline, mental strength, and fine margins as key determinants. He previews the Spain vs France clash, discusses the evolving role of goalkeepers, and gives France a slight edge as the strongest contender.

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

A delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) visited Kolkata to inspect venues and infrastructure for the upcoming international friendly against India on October 3. The inspection covered the stadium, training facilities, accommodation, and security, with West Bengal's Sports Minister assuring world-class arrangements.

Winning A Lord's Test Is Like Climbing Everest For The First Time

Winning A Lord's Test Is Like Climbing Everest For The First Time

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

For Team India's women cricketers, producing such a feat at Lord's -- the Home of Cricket -- will remain an achievement that can be recalled again and again with pride, notes K R Nayar.

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Rediff.com16 hours ago

The reforms, undertaken by the Department of Defence Production, remove stakeholder consultation for exports of non-lethal defence items to most destinations, while retaining safeguards for sensitive countries.

'They will come harder': Bangladesh ready for Australia

'They will come harder': Bangladesh ready for Australia

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons has cautioned his team to expect a strong comeback from Australia in the second Test after their surprising nine-wicket victory in the series opener. Simmons emphasised the need for continued high performance, while Australia's captain Pat Cummins acknowledged their poor performance in the first match and confirmed team changes for the upcoming game in Mackay.

Hi Review: Charming But Predictable

Hi Review: Charming But Predictable

Rediff.com2 days ago

Hi is a charming, feel-good romcom powered by Nayanthara and Kavin's chemistry, but its predictable second half keeps it from becoming truly delightful, notes Sreeju Sreedharan.

Carlos Alcaraz joins Serena Williams for US Open mixed doubles

Carlos Alcaraz joins Serena Williams for US Open mixed doubles

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Carlos Alcaraz will partner Serena Williams in the U.S. Open mixed doubles, adding a blockbuster pairing to Serena's competitive return at Flushing Meadows.

Duleep Trophy: Yash Dhull's selection blunder comes back to haunt North

Duleep Trophy: Yash Dhull's selection blunder comes back to haunt North

Rediff.com7 days ago

North Zone secured a crucial 64-run first-innings lead against West Zone in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final, largely due to exceptional bowling from Abid Mushtaq (5/39) and Arshdeep Singh (3/53). However, controversial selection Yash Dhull failed to score, raising questions about his inclusion over specialist opener Sanat Sangwan. North Zone ended day two with a 171-run overall lead, aiming to extend it further.

Will She Be Bollywood's Next Star?

Will She Be Bollywood's Next Star?

Rediff.com4 days ago

Aarushi Bajaj is all set to star in her first Hindi film, Don't Be Shy, produced by Alia Bhatt.

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former India spinner Neetu David, now head of scouting for UP Warriorz, highlights the need for focused power-hitting training in women's domestic cricket to strengthen both WPL teams and the national side, despite promising spin talent at junior levels.

Warner, Yuvraj, AB De Villiers to light up WCL 3

Warner, Yuvraj, AB De Villiers to light up WCL 3

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The third season of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) is scheduled to commence on October 3, featuring an impressive roster of former cricket stars including David Warner, Yuvraj Singh, Dwayne Bravo, and AB de Villiers. Organisers have announced that the tournament will run until October 18, with the venue yet to be disclosed. The upcoming season promises increased star power and the addition of Bangladesh Champions to the competition.

Esports World Cup: A New Era For Competitive Gaming

Esports World Cup: A New Era For Competitive Gaming

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The inaugural international Esports World Cup has commenced in Paris, featuring over 2,000 elite players from 100+ countries competing for a record USD 75 million prize pool across 25 tournaments. The event also highlights a unique Club Championship and includes global ambassadors Cristiano Ronaldo and Magnus Carlsen.

'Thank You, Dolly, For All Of It'

'Thank You, Dolly, For All Of It'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Dolly Parton managed to give the world the ultimate mystery and fantasy in some corners of her life, but to give full transparency in the ways that counted. Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person.'

FIFA World Cup: A B De Villiers Salutes South Africa's World Cup March

FIFA World Cup: A B De Villiers Salutes South Africa's World Cup March

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

South Africa reached the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time after a 1-0 win over South Korea.

A Trilogy Inspired By The Mahabharata

A Trilogy Inspired By The Mahabharata

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Sri Ramalayam Studios LLP is set to launch CODE, an ambitious film trilogy that reimagines the profound themes of the Mahabharata within an original science fiction narrative.

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Rediff.com4 days ago

The devastating floods in Nepal have brought back memories of two major disasters in Uttarakhand in recent years, the Rishiganga tragedy of February 2021 and the Dharali disaster of August 2025, which caused extensive loss of life and property and left thousands struggling to rebuild their lives.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

How Chou Tien Chen Defies Age And Cancer On The Badminton Court

How Chou Tien Chen Defies Age And Cancer On The Badminton Court

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Chou Tien Chen, at 36, continues to achieve success in badminton, defying age and a recent colorectal cancer diagnosis. His physiotherapist attributes his longevity to a "miracle," while Chou himself credits his faith and enjoyment of the game. He recently secured another medal at the World Championships, preparing to face Japan's Kodai Naraoka.

'He can play for India for long': Gill on Suthar

'He can play for India for long': Gill on Suthar

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar's magnificent 10-wicket match haul and Devdutt Padikkal's century spearheaded India's dominant 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, with skipper Shubman Gill praising Suthar's long-term potential for Indian cricket.

Bhattacharya Holds Two-Shot Lead Heading Into Final Round

Bhattacharya Holds Two-Shot Lead Heading Into Final Round

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Delhi golfer Shaurya Bhattacharya maintained his two-shot lead after shooting a one-under 71 in Round 3 of the PGTI Kolar Open. He now aggregates 10-under 206, with Chandigarh's Angad Cheema and Hyderabad's Mohammed Azhar tied for second at eight-under 208. Bhattacharya faced challenging weather conditions but secured a crucial birdie on the final hole to restore his advantage for the final round.

LA28 Olympics: Over 6 Million Tickets Sold, Next Sale in 2027

LA28 Olympics: Over 6 Million Tickets Sold, Next Sale in 2027

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Ticket sales for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics have surpassed 6 million, with organizers planning the next public sale for 2027, featuring new sports like flag football and squash, and the return of cricket.

Patidar, Sooryavanshi set for Duleep Trophy semifinal showdown

Patidar, Sooryavanshi set for Duleep Trophy semifinal showdown

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Duleep Trophy reaches its semifinal stage with defending champions Central Zone and last year's runners-up South Zone receiving direct entry. They will face East Zone and North Zone, respectively, who advanced after winning their quarterfinal matches. The upcoming clashes promise intense competition as teams battle for a spot in the final.