News for 'Friends'

Coco Gauff reveals the 'absurd' US Open ticket requests

Coco Gauff reveals the 'absurd' US Open ticket requests

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Tennis star Coco Gauff and her mother are speaking out against acquaintances who only resurface to ask for free tickets to the US Open. Gauff revealed that her mother's recent Instagram post, which bluntly told friends and family to stop asking for tickets, was a much-needed intervention after years of absurd requests, particularly during the New York tournament.

Congress Questions Government's UPI Fee Notification

Congress Questions Government's UPI Fee Notification

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the government's recent notification regarding UPI transactions, alleging it paves the way for users to be charged fees, particularly for transactions above Rs 2,000. The party claims the government lacks transparency and questions if the move is to benefit American firms. The government, however, states that charges are necessary for the system's sustainability and infrastructure upgrades, with the Finance Minister clarifying that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com6 days ago

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping's first visit to India in seven years for the BRICS Summit and bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address crucial aspects of India-China relations, including trade, investment, and persistent border tensions.

7 Eco-Friendly Father's Day Gifts

7 Eco-Friendly Father's Day Gifts

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Look for a meangingful gift for your dad this June.

'Sexism at Its Finest': Powerlifter Keyaa Banerji Breaks Silence On Online Harassment

'Sexism at Its Finest': Powerlifter Keyaa Banerji Breaks Silence On Online Harassment

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Indian powerlifter Keyaa Kunal Banerji has spoken out about the severe online harassment and sexualisation she endured following her silver medal win at the 2026 IPF World Sub-Junior & Junior Classic Powerlifting Championships.

Gang Link Suspected In Delhi Gym Trainer's Murder

Gang Link Suspected In Delhi Gym Trainer's Murder

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A gym trainer, Vijay Kumar, was shot dead in south Delhi's Aya Nagar. Police are investigating a possible link to a longstanding village rivalry and are verifying a social media post by gangster Himanshu Bhau claiming responsibility. This incident follows other violent deaths in the area, including a dairy businessman's murder, also linked to the Himanshu Bhau gang. Family members deny Vijay Kumar had personal enmity, suggesting he was caught in an ongoing family feud.

Wasim Akram worried over Imran Khan's health, calls for safeguards

Wasim Akram worried over Imran Khan's health, calls for safeguards

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed serious concerns about the health of his friend and ex-captain Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned. Akram's comments follow similar calls from other international cricketers, including Brian Lara, for proper medical care and humane treatment for Khan.

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government over a notification regarding UPI transactions, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees, especially on transactions above Rs 2,000. Rahul Gandhi claimed the government is surrendering to American pressure, while Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted the potential burden on common citizens amidst inflation. The government's notification prohibits charges on UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000 but remains silent on higher amounts, sparking fears of a "Digital Payments Tax."

Punjab Lions Bowler Takes Field After Grandfather's Death

Punjab Lions Bowler Takes Field After Grandfather's Death

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Ludhiana Lions' Krish Bhagat played an important Sher-E-Punjab T20 League match against Amritsar Soormas, dedicating a crucial wicket to his late grandfather, Chunni Lal Bhagat, a former Cabinet Minister. Krish shared how his grandfather's journey from Pakistan inspired him and spoke about his own early start in cricket, his family's support, and his focus on team goals in the league.

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of quietly paving the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions, alleging it's a surrender to American pressure. The government's recent notification exempts charges only up to Rs 2,000, sparking concerns that higher value transactions and eventually all UPI payments could incur fees. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, however, clarified that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers, and supports digital infrastructure.

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached a crucial consensus during the BRICS summit, agreeing that China and India should be partners, not rivals. The leaders pledged to maintain peace and tranquility in border areas, deepen cooperation, and support each other in multilateral forums, aiming to strengthen the Global South and promote a multipolar world order.

'Never thought I'd see this': Gauff on historic Black feat

'Never thought I'd see this': Gauff on historic Black feat

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Coco Gauff celebrates the historic U.S. Open semi-final clash between Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe, marking the first time two Black American men will compete at this stage in a Grand Slam in the Open Era. Gauff, also in the women's semi-finals, expressed her pride and admiration for Tiafoe's inspiring presence on tour.

Savarkar never hated Muslims, Rahul portrayed him otherwise: Kin tells court

Savarkar never hated Muslims, Rahul portrayed him otherwise: Kin tells court

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Satyaki Savarkar, grandnephew of V D Savarkar, testified in a Pune court, stating that Rahul Gandhi's remarks portrayed Savarkar as a "Muslim hater" and "mob lyncher," which he claims is false. Savarkar asserted that his granduncle's writings promoted Muslim progress. The testimony was part of a defamation case filed against Gandhi concerning his alleged statements about Savarkar's writings.

Don't send your kids to Delhi, say shattered families

Don't send your kids to Delhi, say shattered families

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Families of students killed or injured in a paying guest accommodation collapse in Delhi's Satya Niketan are returning home shattered, questioning the city's safety and warning others against sending their children to the national capital for education.

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar is a gripping cat-and-mouse game that benefits from smart writing.

Adkitta Review: Mature Take On Relationships

Adkitta Review: Mature Take On Relationships

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Sakhi Gokhale is the real surprise in Adkitta, who gives her most mature performance yet, cheers Mayur Sanap.

Delhi's Nepali workers anxiously await news of loved ones

Delhi's Nepali workers anxiously await news of loved ones

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

As devastating flash floods swept through parts of Nepal, triggered by torrential rains and a surge in the Bhote Koshi River, Nepali residents and workers in Delhi spent Wednesday anxiously trying to reach family and friends back home, with reports of deaths and hundreds missing causing widespread worry.

Guess How Much Ananya Panday's Watch Costs!

Guess How Much Ananya Panday's Watch Costs!

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The actor wore a sculptural Rahul Mishra creation from his Devi Fall 2026 Couture collection, paired with a Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow watch reportedly worth a staggering Rs 1.66 crore.

Tata Curvv EV Just Got Cheaper, And More Attractive

Tata Curvv EV Just Got Cheaper, And More Attractive

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Tata Curvv EV Series X keeps its distinctive coupe-SUV design but becomes a more attractive package with a standard 55kWh battery, more features and a lower starting price of Rs 16.99 lakh.

Teen Wonder Teodor Davidov adds a new spin to US Open with two-handed magic

Teen Wonder Teodor Davidov adds a new spin to US Open with two-handed magic

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Sixteen-year-old Teodor Davidov is captivating the US Open with his rare ability to serve from either hand and play without a backhand, adding unpredictability to his game.

Samson or Sooryavanshi? India's Afghanistan dilemma

Samson or Sooryavanshi? India's Afghanistan dilemma

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

India is grappling with significant selection dilemmas ahead of their opening T20I match against Afghanistan, particularly concerning the choice between Sanju Samson and young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and the potential impact of Ishan Kishan's injury scare. The series also serves as crucial preparation for the Asian Games, with India needing to finalise their bowling attack against a strong Afghan side.

Where's Shreyas Iyer Holidaying?

Where's Shreyas Iyer Holidaying?

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Shreyas Iyer is unwinding in Bali with close friend Aman Khan, sharing glimpses of their relaxing holiday away from the demands of the sport.

Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani Predicts AI Will Revolutionise Cinema Production

Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani Predicts AI Will Revolutionise Cinema Production

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani believes artificial intelligence will entirely transform the film industry, making production more cost-effective and efficient. He highlights AI's potential as a "game changer" while also cautioning that its effective use requires extensive research and adaptation.

'Thank You For Making History With Us': Messi's Teammates Express Gratitude

'Thank You For Making History With Us': Messi's Teammates Express Gratitude

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Argentine footballers Lautaro Martinez, Leandro Paredes, Emiliano Martinez, and Alexis Mac Allister have paid emotional tributes to Lionel Messi following his announcement to retire from international football, reflecting on his profound impact on their careers and the national team.

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'India is trying to project that it can engage with the world in a different way too.'

Android Gets Smarter This September

Android Gets Smarter This September

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Android's September Drop brings smarter AI, easier messaging and practical everyday features.

Gang-rape during Navratri: 5 sentenced to life in jail

Gang-rape during Navratri: 5 sentenced to life in jail

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

A special POCSO court in Vadodara has sentenced five men to life imprisonment for the gang-rape of a minor girl during Navratri two years ago. The court described the crime as "most heinous" and ordered Rs 10 lakh compensation for the survivor, emphasising the seriousness of violence against women, especially during a religious festival.

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping is in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit, his first to India in nearly seven years, comes amidst efforts to normalise India-China relations following the 2020 Eastern Ladakh standoff and is expected to have significant implications for bilateral ties and BRICS cooperation.

When Bappa Showed Us How To Do More...

When Bappa Showed Us How To Do More...

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

We started with notebooks and graduated to lavatories, self defence classes, laptops during the lockdown... And, every Ganeshotsav, the contributions increased, says Ananya Chincholikar.

Nepal floods: 'We only want information about our son'

Nepal floods: 'We only want information about our son'

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A Thane family is desperately searching for their 28-year-old son, Abhishek Ghone, who went missing in Nepal after flash floods struck during his Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. Despite using AI tools to track his location, the family seeks official verification and urges authorities to provide concrete information about his whereabouts.

Modi to Xi: Border peace 'essential' for better ties

Modi to Xi: Border peace 'essential' for better ties

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping that peace and tranquillity along the frontier remains an "essential" basis for the development of India-China relations, even as the two leaders welcomed "steady progress" in bilateral ties during their talks on the sidelines of the BRICS summit.

Vijay slams DMK's corruption, names Stalin, Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries

Vijay slams DMK's corruption, names Stalin, Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has accused the opposition DMK of organised corruption and illegal collection of "party funds" during its previous regime, citing Enforcement Directorate documents. The allegations, which named former CM M K Stalin and his deputy Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries, led to a major ruckus in the Assembly.

Ahead of Modi-Xi meet, Beijing bats for proper handling of differences

Ahead of Modi-Xi meet, Beijing bats for proper handling of differences

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

China emphasises proper handling of differences and a long-term perspective for bilateral ties ahead of President Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS summit and talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aims to stabilise relations following the 2020 Ladakh standoff and strengthen BRICS cooperation.

Saif Ali Khan's Iconic Partners-In-Crime

Saif Ali Khan's Iconic Partners-In-Crime

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

We revisit Saif Ali Khan's memorable two-hero film collaborations with stars like Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan, showcasing his versatility and unique acting prowess.

Police constable arrested in Gujarat hooch tragedy case

Police constable arrested in Gujarat hooch tragedy case

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

A police constable has been arrested in connection with the Bhavnagar hooch tragedy, which has claimed 13 lives in Gujarat. This brings the total number of arrests to 39, as investigations reveal the constable's links to the prime accused and his involvement in the offence.

US Open PIX: Andreeva defies early setback, fends off Potapova to seal quarterfinal berth

US Open PIX: Andreeva defies early setback, fends off Potapova to seal quarterfinal berth

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Fifth-seeded Mirra Andreeva fought back from a set down to defeat Anastasia Potapova 5-7, 6-4, 6-3, reaching her first US Open quarterfinal after Potapova's injury.

Women's Asia Cup: India brush aside Bangladesh as Shafali, spin trio seal final berth

Women's Asia Cup: India brush aside Bangladesh as Shafali, spin trio seal final berth

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Shafali Verma capitalised on three dropped chances to smash 64 off 40 balls, while India's spinners dismantled Bangladesh's chase to secure a comfortable 40-run Asia Cup semifinal win.

Falling In Love With Kavya Kalyanram Is So Easy!

Falling In Love With Kavya Kalyanram Is So Easy!

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Kavya Kalyanram has the kind of energy that makes you want to be her friend within five minutes of meeting her.

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

From Kottayam Kunjachan to Unda, here are 10 Mammootty films that prove the megastar can be every bit as entertaining as he is intense.