News for 'First World'

India's tricolour embarks on global time-zone relay from Fiji on I-Day

India's tricolour embarks on global time-zone relay from Fiji on I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India launched 'Suryapath Tiranga', a unique initiative involving over 50 Indian missions globally, to digitally relay images of the tricolour across multiple time zones, starting from Fiji, to mark the country's 80th Independence Day.

England crush South Africa; meet Australia in women's T20 World Cup final

England crush South Africa; meet Australia in women's T20 World Cup final

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

England defeated South Africa by 40 runs in the semi-final at The Oval, securing their place in the Women's T20 World Cup final against Australia. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt's 75 runs and a crucial partnership with Heather Knight were key to their victory.

Ashmita Chaliha stuns Han to win maiden BWF Tour title at Korea Masters

Ashmita Chaliha stuns Han to win maiden BWF Tour title at Korea Masters

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Indian shuttler Ashmita Chaliha has won her first BWF World Tour title, defeating China's Han Qian Xi in the women's singles final of the Korea Masters Super 300 tournament.

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.

India poised to become global esports powerhouse, says Esports Foundation COO

India poised to become global esports powerhouse, says Esports Foundation COO

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Mike McCabe, COO and Deputy CEO of the Esports Foundation, believes India has "more potential than any country on the planet" for esports, citing its enormous fan base, improving competitive ecosystem, and evolving policy environment as key drivers for rapid acceleration in the sport.

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill, India's Test captain, expresses comfort with his leadership role and highlights the team's progress. He acknowledges the challenge of qualifying for the World Test Championship final, requiring significant wins in upcoming matches. Gill also discusses the honour of leading India in its 600th Test and shares insights on playing conditions in Sri Lanka.

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi equals World Cup scoring record with hat-trick

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi equals World Cup scoring record with hat-trick

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi equalled the men's World Cup all-time scoring record with a hat-trick in Argentina's Group J opener against Algeria on Tuesday.

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Erling Haaland scored two crucial late goals to lead Norway to a stunning 2-1 victory over five-times champions Brazil in the World Cup Round of 16, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Neymar's late penalty was not enough for Brazil, who also missed an earlier spot-kick.

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes believes that while bilateral ODI series may become fewer in the future, the 50-over format is unlikely to disappear entirely, with passionate fans continuing to support their teams.

FIFA World Cup: Raul Jimenez Writes His Story in Tears

FIFA World Cup: Raul Jimenez Writes His Story in Tears

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

>Mexican star Raul Jimenez delivered a powerful and emotional performance in the 2026 World Cup opener, scoring a crucial goal against South Africa.

Don't mistake our tolerance for weakness, can hit hard: NSA Doval

Don't mistake our tolerance for weakness, can hit hard: NSA Doval

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has stated that India's generosity and tolerance should not be perceived as weakness, emphasising the nation's capability to take risks and retaliate forcefully. Speaking in the upcoming Discovery docuseries "Declassified: Operation Sindoor", Doval detailed the operation's objective to dismantle terror camps responsible for the Pahalgam attack, highlighting India's resolve in military responses.

World Cup bus set alight as chaotic celebrations erupt in Manhattan after Knicks win

World Cup bus set alight as chaotic celebrations erupt in Manhattan after Knicks win

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A World Cup bus was set alight and a teenager suffered a gunshot wound during chaotic scenes in Midtown Manhattan as thousands of basketball fans poured into the streets late on Saturday to celebrate the New York Knicks' historic win in the NBA Finals.

'18 years ago today...': Abhinav Bindra reflects on historic Olympic gold

'18 years ago today...': Abhinav Bindra reflects on historic Olympic gold

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic gold medallist, reflected on the 18th anniversary of his historic win at the Beijing Olympics, stating, 'Life since has taught me that the spaces between the peaks matter just as much.'

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has set a new FIFA World Cup record for most goals scored from outside the penalty area, surpassing Brazil's Rivelino. This achievement, alongside his 7th consecutive World Cup goal, prompted a humorous reaction from Norway's Erling Haaland regarding the Golden Boot race.

2026 FIFA World Cup Smashes All-Time Goals Record

2026 FIFA World Cup Smashes All-Time Goals Record

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has become the highest-scoring edition in the tournament's history, surpassing the previous record of 172 goals set in Qatar 2022. The record was broken during the United States vs. Turkey match, with Auston Trusty's goal marking the 173rd, and the total quickly rising to 175 goals by the 59th match. This achievement is attributed to FIFA's expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, leading to 104 matches compared to 64 in 2022.

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni believes 39-year-old Lionel Messi will continue to be the world's best player for as long as he desires, dismissing age concerns as Messi dominates the World Cup with eight crucial goals.

'We Smell Blood And We Go For It': Argentina's Epic Fightback Stuns England In World Cup Semis

'We Smell Blood And We Go For It': Argentina's Epic Fightback Stuns England In World Cup Semis

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lauded his team's ability to perform under pressure, stating they 'play its best football when it's under pressure' after their dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against England secured a spot in the World Cup final.

FIFA World Cup: Messi dazzles with a 'trick' as Argentina crush Algeria

FIFA World Cup: Messi dazzles with a 'trick' as Argentina crush Algeria

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi earned a spot in the World Cup history books with a hat-trick that saw Argentina begin the defence of their title with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Algeria in their Group J opener at Kansas City Stadium, Missouri, on Tuesday.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table

FIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Points Table Of FIFA World Cup 2026.

Indian Shuttler Ashmita Chaliha Storms Into Korea Masters Final

Indian Shuttler Ashmita Chaliha Storms Into Korea Masters Final

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Indian shuttler Ashmita Chaliha defeated compatriot Rakshitha Sree Santhosh Ramraj to reach her first-ever BWF World Tour final at the Korea Masters Super 300. Chaliha, returning from a knee injury, continued her impressive run, having previously upset the top seed.

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Canadian singer Nora Fatehi has released her latest international collaboration, "Siir Siir," which is part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 music programme, marking another significant global milestone in her career. The track, featuring Vegedream, blends pop and R&B, celebrating her multicultural journey and expanding her international fan base.

80th Independence Day: Modi vows to realise 'Viksit Bharat' dream by 2047

80th Independence Day: Modi vows to realise 'Viksit Bharat' dream by 2047

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 80th Independence Day address, expressed strong confidence that India will achieve developed nation status by 2047, urging citizens to embrace big dreams and unwavering resolve to realise 'Viksit Bharat'. He highlighted India's economic transformation and significant growth in various sectors, including defence production, electronic manufacturing, and mobile phone production.

India, Japan deepen maritime security with eye on China

India, Japan deepen maritime security with eye on China

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on maritime security cooperation, committing to deepen defence ties and oppose unilateral actions that impede freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, a move seen as directed at China's increasing military presence.

'That silence in the dressing room will stay me': Ex-fielding coach T Dilip on his best moment with Team India

'That silence in the dressing room will stay me': Ex-fielding coach T Dilip on his best moment with Team India

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former Indian fielding coach T Dilip shared his most cherished memory with the team, highlighting the profound silence in the dressing room after their T20 World Cup 2024 victory.

Sagnik Roy And Sayantan Kushari Clinch Gold In China

Sagnik Roy And Sayantan Kushari Clinch Gold In China

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Indian bridge players Sagnik Roy and Sayantan Kushari secured a gold medal in the Under-31 Pairs category at the 9th World Youth Transnational Championships held in Hefei, China, outperforming 34 other pairs.

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The San Jose Earthquakes, despite their strong season, are making way for the U.S. national team as California hosts World Cup knockout matches. This event is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase soccer's global appeal and accelerate its growth in the state, which already boasts a thriving football culture driven by its diverse population and numerous professional teams.

Archer Jadhav finds Shane Watson's winning formula

Archer Jadhav finds Shane Watson's winning formula

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Indian archer Sahil Jadhav, preparing for the Asian Games, has found valuable insights into managing pressure and staying focused from former Australian cricketer Shane Watson's self-help book, 'The Winner's Mindset'.

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

As India prepares for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, the team management faces critical decisions regarding their playing XI to bolster their World Test Championship 2027 final aspirations.

Ronaldo's sister hints this could be his last World Cup

Ronaldo's sister hints this could be his last World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, has indicated that the FIFA World Cup 2026 could be the Portugal captain's final international tournament, referring to it as his "last dance" with the national team. She clarified her comments specifically referred to his Portugal career, not overall retirement.

India Set To Embrace Fast-Paced 3x3 Basketball With Quest 2026

India Set To Embrace Fast-Paced 3x3 Basketball With Quest 2026

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Tero Entertainment Public Co. Ltd. has launched Quest India 2026, marking the official introduction of 3x3 basketball to the country. This fast-paced, urban Olympic sport, backed by BFI and FIBA, will feature its inaugural event in September 2026, blending elite competition with street culture.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico's 'Losers Cafe' serves comfort with every sip

FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico's 'Losers Cafe' serves comfort with every sip

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Amid the sea of green that washed over Mexico City after the country's World Cup victory over Ecuador on Tuesday, one shop defiantly hoisted the Ecuadorian flag and welcomed all the downtrodden fans of Mexico's opponents to a place of refuge. Welcome to the Losers Cafe, a coffee shop in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Condesa that is comforting fans of the losing teams.

10 Malayalam Songs That Capture Onam Best

10 Malayalam Songs That Capture Onam Best

Rediff.com7 days ago

From timeless classics to modern favourites, these 10 Malayalam songs capture the colour, warmth and togetherness of Onam like few others can.

FIFA World Cup: Algeria Knocked Out As Switzerland Advance

FIFA World Cup: Algeria Knocked Out As Switzerland Advance

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Switzerland secured a vital 2-0 victory over Algeria propelling them into the Round of 16.

FPIs inject Rs 16,621 crore into Indian equities in early August

FPIs inject Rs 16,621 crore into Indian equities in early August

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have injected Rs 16,621 crore into Indian equities during the first half of August, continuing a buying spree driven by improving relative valuations, resilient corporate earnings, and expectations of softer US interest rates.

Lionel Messi Breaks World Cup's All-Time Goals Record

Lionel Messi Breaks World Cup's All-Time Goals Record

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi became the all-time leading scorer in men's FIFA World Cup history on Monday, netting his 17th tournament goal during Argentina's match against Austria.

WTC 2027 Final: India Face Crucial Series In Sri Lanka

WTC 2027 Final: India Face Crucial Series In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Two-time finalists India are placed fifth and face a challenging path to secure a top-two finish.

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde's World Cup dream ended in defeat, but their story had already become one of the tournament's defining moments. After the debutants stretched defending champions Argentina to extra time, football greats Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry saluted the tiny island nation for proving that belief can outweigh size and reputation.

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Rediff.com5 days ago

If an OTT series can make a young person curious about the armed forces, make a family understand the sacrifices made by those in uniform, or simply make someone walk up to a veteran and say, "Thank you for your service," then it has achieved something far more important than merely getting its history right, notes Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

'Why Are Our Best Students Dying?'

'Why Are Our Best Students Dying?'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Poor families, she said, cut corners on their own needs to pay for coaching and fees, and when their child clears JEE, it's the happiest day the family has had in years. So why, she asked, her voice already starting to climb, does the same system that we're told is the best in the country keep pushing those very students toward what she called 'institutional deaths'?

The Man Who Always Played A Woman

The Man Who Always Played A Woman

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'We often lament that even now no mainstream actor wants to come out as openly gay. But Chapal Bhaduri has not hidden his sexuality. He has been open about his relationship with a man for decades. He could well be our first out mainstream actor.'