News for 'People and Culture'

India Defender Rahul Bheke Signs With Mohun Bagan Super Giant

India Defender Rahul Bheke Signs With Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Experienced India international defender Rahul Bheke has signed a one-year contract with Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The versatile 34-year-old, who has previously played for Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and Kerala Blasters, expressed his excitement about joining the "best club in the country" and aims to win trophies, including the Kolkata derby.

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has intensified his demand for the RSS to register itself and disclose its financial dealings, arguing that the organisation cannot wield significant social and political influence while simultaneously claiming no political agenda and evading public accountability. Kharge's remarks follow RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's rejection of such calls, with Bhagwat asserting the organisation is neither secretive nor operating outside public scrutiny.

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Iran's soccer team arrived in the United States for the first time at this World Cup on Sunday, landing at Los Angeles International Airport and holding a press conference on the same day that a peace deal between the two nations was announced.

Welcome To The Jungle Review: Silly Spectacle

Welcome To The Jungle Review: Silly Spectacle

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Welcome To The Jungle's moment of truth arrives when Akshay pleads 'Hum sab bhand hain' in the face of fear and power. If only the rest of this slog was as self-aware as this single scene, notes Sukanya Verma.

No meat on the menu: Kashi vendors pushed to the outskirts ahead of Sawan month

No meat on the menu: Kashi vendors pushed to the outskirts ahead of Sawan month

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Varanasi Municipal Corporation's decision to relocate all meat, fish, and poultry shops outside city limits before the holy month of Sawan has ignited a debate among residents, traders, and political leaders, with supporters citing religious sentiments and critics raising concerns about convenience and livelihoods.

The Last Trip With My Father

The Last Trip With My Father

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

At Kolga Aabla, the closest beach to her grandmother's home, at the edge of a birch forest, we immersed her balance ashes. It was a sombre, precious day for both of us. But a day that also brought long-needed closure. My mother's spirit, chained for so many years in a Parkinson's-locked body, was free. But my father came back from the beach a visibly older man.

Foreign nationals vacate hotels in Malviya Nagar amid fear

Foreign nationals vacate hotels in Malviya Nagar amid fear

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Following a devastating blaze in Malviya Nagar that killed 21 people, foreign nationals and other guests have vacated hotels and guest houses on Press Enclave Road due to a lack of food, electricity, and safety concerns. The incident has led to widespread fear and uncertainty, causing many establishments to shut down and residents to seek alternative accommodation.

How Haryana Family Achieved Double Mayoral Win In The UK

How Haryana Family Achieved Double Mayoral Win In The UK

Rediff.com24 May 2026

In a remarkable achievement, a family from Haryana, India, now residing in the UK, celebrates as both the son, Tushar Kumar, and the mother, Parveen Rani, have been elected as mayors in their respective towns. Tushar has become the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK.

Hyderabad To Host Archery Premier League Season 2 In October

Hyderabad To Host Archery Premier League Season 2 In October

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The second season of the Archery Premier League (APL) will be held in Hyderabad from October 8-18, featuring 48 Indian and international archers across six franchises. The tournament aims to bolster India's Olympic medal prospects in archery.

Ab Hoga Hisaab Review: Muddled Revenge Drama

Ab Hoga Hisaab Review: Muddled Revenge Drama

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Dive into the chaotic world of Ab Hoga Hisaab, a revenge drama that attempts to weave a complex narrative of crime and retribution but often loses its way amidst a multitude of bizarre subplots, notes Deepa Gahlot.

ChatGPT Image Generation Crosses 1 Billion Milestone In India

ChatGPT Image Generation Crosses 1 Billion Milestone In India

Rediff.com18 May 2026

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announces that ChatGPT image creation in India has surpassed 1 billion, less than a month after the release of ChatGPT Images 2.0.

India's Anti-Doping Fight Gets Boost From Neeraj Chopra

India's Anti-Doping Fight Gets Boost From Neeraj Chopra

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has partnered with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to launch a "Clean Sports Campaign" aimed at combating doping in India. This initiative comes as India faces a serious doping problem, topping WADA's list of offenders, and seeks to educate athletes on anti-doping regulations and promote fair play. Chopra emphasised the importance of patience over quick gains through doping, highlighting the long-term damage it causes to athletes and the nation's sporting image.

BJP leader seeks ban on Namaz on Mumbai roads, cites traffic disruption

BJP leader seeks ban on Namaz on Mumbai roads, cites traffic disruption

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has written to Mumbai authorities, urging them to stop the offering of namaz on public roads, claiming it causes traffic disruption and inconvenience. Trinamool Congress leader Majeed Memon agreed that namaz on roads should not be allowed due to inconvenience but attributed it to a lack of mosque space.

Road Rage Shocker: Himachal Constable Attacked On Duty

Road Rage Shocker: Himachal Constable Attacked On Duty

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

A police constable in Himachal Pradesh was allegedly assaulted in a road rage incident in Paonta, Sirmaur district. The accused, identified as Farman from Saharanpur, has been arrested, and a case registered under the BNS. The incident has sparked political criticism regarding the state's law and order situation.

Suresh Triveni: 'Actors Like Anil Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit Are Hungry'

Suresh Triveni: 'Actors Like Anil Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit Are Hungry'

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

'I've asked them so many times that after going through gruelling shoot sessions for 30-40 years, what keeps your passion alive? I think it's the discipline to show up.'

'We Will See A Different BJP In Bengal'

'We Will See A Different BJP In Bengal'

Rediff.com7 May 2026

'In West Bengal, the BJP's ideology of Hindutva will be customised to cater to the culture and the cultural imperatives of Bengalis.'

India trashes claim of declining minority rights, media freedom

India trashes claim of declining minority rights, media freedom

Rediff.com17 May 2026

India has rejected allegations of declining media freedom and erosion of religious and minority rights, asserting that the country is a vibrant democracy that guarantees free speech to all.

UK bans social media for kids under 16, WhatsApp not included

UK bans social media for kids under 16, WhatsApp not included

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a ban on social media access for all children under the age of 16, citing their 'happiness and safety'. The ban, which will not include messaging apps like WhatsApp, aims to protect children from harmful content, bullying, and the addictive nature of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Legislative powers are in place for the law to come into force by Spring next year.

Air India is in the midst of an ambitious transformation plan, but...: CEO Campbell Wilson

Air India is in the midst of an ambitious transformation plan, but...: CEO Campbell Wilson

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Outgoing Air India CEO Campbell Wilson stated that the airline's foundations have been rebuilt over the last four years, but non-delivery of aircraft on schedule has significantly impacted growth and fleet modernisation. He also revealed he has no plans to take up another full-time executive position after stepping down.

All-rounder Deepti Sharma's impact unmatched: Anjum Chopra

All-rounder Deepti Sharma's impact unmatched: Anjum Chopra

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Former India captain Anjum Chopra hailed Deepti Sharma as one of cricket's most influential all-rounders after her five-wicket haul against Pakistan, while also highlighting the importance of Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur to India's Women's T20 World Cup campaign.

BJP Aims To Save Punjab From AAP Government's Failures

BJP Aims To Save Punjab From AAP Government's Failures

Rediff.com31 May 2026

BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has criticised the AAP government in Punjab, citing failures in tackling drug trafficking, mafia activities, and a deteriorating law and order situation. He urged party workers to launch awareness campaigns against drugs and assist in the Special Intensive Revision exercise for upcoming elections, envisioning a drug-free, fear-free, and development-oriented Punjab.

Diwali added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list

Diwali added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list

Rediff.com10 Dec 2025

India's Deepavali (Diwali), the festival of light, has been inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during a meeting held at the Red Fort in Delhi.

Haryana CM Saini Accuses AAP Of Failing On Punjab Promises

Haryana CM Saini Accuses AAP Of Failing On Punjab Promises

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini criticised the AAP government in Punjab, alleging unfulfilled promises, deteriorating law and order, and a failed anti-drug campaign. He also highlighted the welfare initiatives of Haryana's 'double-engine' government and expressed confidence in the BJP's future prospects in Punjab.

Allahabad HC Seeks Details Of Arms Licences Of UP Politicians

Allahabad HC Seeks Details Of Arms Licences Of UP Politicians

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to provide details of arms licences held by 19 individuals, including politicians Brij Bhushan Singh and Raja Bhaiya, citing concerns over the public display of weapons and its impact on social harmony.

Is A Woman's Consent Only Worth Rs 370?

Is A Woman's Consent Only Worth Rs 370?

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

I have spent the last couple of days trying to understand what exactly is making me so angry about the viral controversy surrounding comedian Pranit More's crowd-work show. At first, I thought it was because of the audience member whose story has now sparked outrage across social media. Then I thought it was because of the comedian's response.

Modi shares glimpses of Italy visit, 'Melody moment'

Modi shares glimpses of Italy visit, 'Melody moment'

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Italy concluded with the elevation of India-Italy relations to a Special Strategic Partnership, focusing on enhanced cooperation across various sectors.

Sharvari: 'Working With Imtiaz Sir Has Been Surreal'

Sharvari: 'Working With Imtiaz Sir Has Been Surreal'

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

'Working with Imtiaz Ali sir was something I had dreamt about for years.' 'His films have shaped the way I look at cinema and storytelling, and to be trusted with a character like Afsana was incredibly meaningful for me.'

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Indian Football Team Receives Rousing Welcome In London

Indian Football Team Receives Rousing Welcome In London

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Indian men's football team, participating in the Unity Cup in the UK, was warmly welcomed at India House in London ahead of their match against Zimbabwe. The team interacted with fans and shared insights during a reception hosted by the High Commission of India.

'The Way You Buy Is Going To Change'

'The Way You Buy Is Going To Change'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

'Today, we see people go on ChatGPT to ask 'can you plan my holiday' and then they have to go outside of the ChatGPT window to make all the bookings and so how can we complete that really high-intent use case that a user has come to ChatGPT with and help them complete that all the way within the chat GPT window.'

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya joined a cycling event in Ahmedabad to mark the 75th edition of 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' and Commonwealth Games Day, encouraging citizens to embrace cycling for fitness and short commutes. The event saw participation from athletes, celebrities, and citizens across India.

Sujeet Kalkal Has Olympic Potential, Says Coach Bentinidis

Sujeet Kalkal Has Olympic Potential, Says Coach Bentinidis

Rediff.com31 May 2026

India's new men's freestyle wrestling coach Shako Bentinidis believes Sujeet Kalkal has the potential to become an Olympic medallist but must further sharpen his technical skills. He also urged Indian coaches to continuously upgrade themselves through greater exposure to international training methods and evolving tactical trends in the sport.

The Debt Rati Agnihotri Owes Bharathiraja

The Debt Rati Agnihotri Owes Bharathiraja

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

'He is the reason for bringing me into the film industry.' 'He is the reason for making me a very secure actor.'

Modi in Rome: Dines with Meloni, visits Colosseum

Modi in Rome: Dines with Meloni, visits Colosseum

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss ways to strengthen the India-Italy friendship, marking the final leg of his five-nation tour.

Bengal temple, shut for years, reopens after BJP's historic win

Bengal temple, shut for years, reopens after BJP's historic win

Rediff.com6 May 2026

In a momentous occasion after the Bharatiya Janata Party's win, the Durga temple in Asansol, reopened its doors to devotees after remaining shut for several years.

'Pressure To Bear A Son Is More In The City'

'Pressure To Bear A Son Is More In The City'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'Even lower middle class parents in cities opt for just one child. A son is a must.'

What Satya Nadella's Leadership Style Teaches Us

What Satya Nadella's Leadership Style Teaches Us

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A leader can spend authority on themselves -- on appearing decisive, on appearing in control, on appearing irreplaceable. Or they can spend it on the people around them -- on giving them the ball back, on creating conditions in which other people's confidence and capability can grow. Over a long enough horizon, the second compounds in a way the first never does. And that's exactly what Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella has done.

After quitting BJP, Annamalai launches 'common man politics' for Tamil Nadu

After quitting BJP, Annamalai launches 'common man politics' for Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai has launched a new political movement focused on 'common man politics,' rejecting personality cults and hereditary power, aiming to position Tamil Nadu as the premier state in India.

Did Michael Show The Whole Truth?

Did Michael Show The Whole Truth?

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Michael Jackson biopic Michael has achieved remarkable box office success, grossing over $700 million worldwide, yet it sparks debate over the power of fandom versus the need for a truthful depiction of an artist's controversial life.

He Walked 2,000 Km Across The Sahyadris

He Walked 2,000 Km Across The Sahyadris

Rediff.com26 May 2026

'All this diversity that our country provides brings in a lot of learnings.' 'That is what I really end up sharing with the whole community.' 'But it all comes through making my shoes dirty.'