News for 'Spark'

Dhoni-Pant Viral Video Sparks New Hookah Debate

Dhoni-Pant Viral Video Sparks New Hookah Debate

Rediff.com2 days ago

A recent viral video featuring M S Dhoni and Rishabh Pant has once again brought Dhoni's alleged hookah habit into the public spotlight.

Rodri's Ibiza Photo Sparks Hilarious Reactions

Rodri's Ibiza Photo Sparks Hilarious Reactions

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Manchester City midfielder Rodri's holiday photo from Ibiza went viral, drawing comparisons to the 'distracted boyfriend' meme.

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI; Astra Sparks Monitoring Concerns

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI; Astra Sparks Monitoring Concerns

Rediff.com3 days ago

OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have introduced new AI models with enhanced capabilities. OpenAI's Astra model, achieving a 'Critical' cybersecurity tier, has ignited a debate among researchers due to its "recurrent depth" architecture, which some fear makes its reasoning harder to monitor. Anthropic and Google also released new models, focusing on coding, scientific research, and cybersecurity, alongside new image and video AI tools.

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Rediff.com12 hours ago

Carlos Alcaraz swapped his headline-making tank top for an undershirt after revealing too much chest, then beat Wu Yibing in straight sets to reach the US Open fourth round.

Jaiswal's controversial run-out vs Sri Lanka sparks debate

Jaiswal's controversial run-out vs Sri Lanka sparks debate

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Yashasvi Jaiswal was unfortunately run out for 32 on Day 1 of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle after a bizarre mix-up with KL Rahul and a collision with debutant bowler Keshara Nuwantha.

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI Models, Sparking Debate On Monitoring And Security

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI Models, Sparking Debate On Monitoring And Security

Rediff.com2 days ago

Leading global technology companies OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have introduced new AI models with enhanced capabilities, including advanced cybersecurity and coding. However, these releases have ignited significant debate among researchers regarding the transparency and monitorability of AI reasoning, particularly concerning OpenAI's Astra model and its "recurrent depth" architecture.

Nepal Disaster Sparks Crisis In Bihar

Nepal Disaster Sparks Crisis In Bihar

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Nepal's devastating flash floods have created a worrisome flood situation in Bihar.

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused state Congress chief Ajay Rai of participating in a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Shravan, near the Ram temple. Rai has vehemently denied the allegations, challenging Adityanath to provide proof and threatening to resign if proven, while also demanding the CM's resignation if no evidence is found. The Congress party has defended the event, stating it was a Nishad community gathering with their own food traditions.

Has Shehzad Poonawalla quit BJP? X bio sparks buzz

Has Shehzad Poonawalla quit BJP? X bio sparks buzz

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has updated his X (formerly Twitter) bio, removing any mention of the BJP and listing himself as a "Lifelong follower of PM Narendra Modi," sparking speculation about his potential exit from the party and active politics.

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Traffic between Assam and Meghalaya was disrupted after Guwahati-based cab operators blocked National Highway-27, protesting alleged attacks on people from Assam during a Khasi Students' Union (KSU) rally in Shillong, which saw 31 vehicles damaged and several pedestrians assaulted.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

Islam is 'greater' than other religions: K'taka minister sparks row

Islam is 'greater' than other religions: K'taka minister sparks row

Rediff.com5 days ago

Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi stated that Islam is "greater" than other religions and expressed a desire to visit Mecca, despite being a non-Muslim. These remarks, made at a mass marriage event, drew sharp criticism from BJP leader R Ashoka, who accused the minister of portraying Sanatana Dharma in an inferior light and demanded his apology or removal from the cabinet by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Waterlogging at the newly-built Noida International Airport in Jewar after heavy rains has ignited a political dispute between the Samajwadi Party and the BJP government. While SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticised the infrastructure, airport authorities stated the temporary water accumulation was cleared within 30 minutes without disrupting operations. BJP MLA Dhirendra Singh defended the development, accusing the opposition of politicising the issue.

North Zone's Duleep Trophy selection sparks controversy, raises questions

North Zone's Duleep Trophy selection sparks controversy, raises questions

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

North Zone coaches Ajay Sharma and Sarandeep Singh are under scrutiny for controversially dropping Sanat Sangwan, the Ranji Trophy's third-highest run-scorer, for the Duleep Trophy quarter-final against West Zone, opting instead for Yash Dhull, who had a significantly poorer Ranji season.

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated in the Legislative Council that no cases of communal riots or other crimes have been registered against the RSS. This statement, made in response to an opposition query, has sparked a political controversy, with the BJP criticising Kharge, a vocal RSS critic, for his alleged "political vendetta." Kharge, in turn, clarified that the RSS is not a registered legal entity, and therefore, cases are registered against individuals, not the organisation itself, calling for its registration for transparency.

Spark Shines: Indian Trackmania Star Secures Esports World Cup Berth

Spark Shines: Indian Trackmania Star Secures Esports World Cup Berth

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Kunal Upreti, known as Spark, has become India's sole Trackmania representative at the Esports World Cup 2026 after excelling in the Asia and Oceania qualifiers. He will compete for a significant prize pool, representing both India and S8UL on the global stage.

'Won't delete': BJP MP's daughter's post on Pradhan's exit sparks row

'Won't delete': BJP MP's daughter's post on Pradhan's exit sparks row

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A social media post by BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi's daughter celebrating Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as Union Education Minister, has ignited an internal controversy within the BJP.

Sonam Wangchuk's hospital video sparks row

Sonam Wangchuk's hospital video sparks row

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk released a video detailing his experience at Safdarjung Hospital, where he alleged he was prevented from leaving despite a Delhi High Court order. Hospital authorities claim the video was recorded before they received the official court order and in a no-videography zone. Wangchuk, who was on a hunger strike for examination reforms, later ended his fast at Medanta Hospital after government assurances.

Honeymoon murder: Raja Raghuvanshi's wedding bill sparks fresh dispute

Honeymoon murder: Raja Raghuvanshi's wedding bill sparks fresh dispute

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Nearly 15 months after the marriage of local businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, who was killed during his honeymoon in Meghalaya, the wedding caterer on Tuesday approached the police in Indore to seek their help in the recovery of alleged outstanding payment of Rs 2.82 lakh, an official said.

'Will pure petrol come from your father's house': BJP MP sparks row

'Will pure petrol come from your father's house': BJP MP sparks row

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

BJP MP Janardan Mishra has strongly defended the Centre's ethanol blending policy amidst ongoing controversy, highlighting India's high crude oil import dependency and global geopolitical challenges. He questioned opponents of ethanol blending, citing Brazil's successful use of 100 per cent ethanol in vehicles and experts' views on its engine compatibility.

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted in Odisha after Lord Jagannath's idol was moved from the Puri temple to the chariot during the Rath Yatra without its traditional 'Tahia' floral headgear, leading to strong criticism from opposition parties BJD and Congress against the BJP government.

New AI Models From Tech Giants Raise Safety Concerns

New AI Models From Tech Giants Raise Safety Concerns

Rediff.com3 days ago

Leading technology companies OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have announced new AI models with advanced capabilities, including OpenAI's Astra reaching a "Critical" cybersecurity tier. However, these advancements have ignited a significant debate among safety researchers and netizens, particularly concerning the transparency and monitorability of OpenAI's novel "recurrent depth" architecture.

Hideki Makihara Sparks Bullet Train Row

Hideki Makihara Sparks Bullet Train Row

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

In a social media post, former Japanese minister Hideki Makihara blamed the Indian side's approach to the project as being one of 'sheer chaos', of not keeping promises, and of continuously 'pushing their own self-interest'.

Late-night meeting of NCP, NCP-SP leaders at CM's house sparks buzz

Late-night meeting of NCP, NCP-SP leaders at CM's house sparks buzz

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A late-night meeting between leaders of the ruling NCP and Opposition NCP (SP) at the Maharashtra Chief Minister's residence has sparked intense speculation about shifting political dynamics in the state. This comes as the BJP reportedly seeks support for the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, which proposes to increase Lok Sabha seats and initiate delimitation, a move criticised by Congress leader P Chidambaram for potentially disadvantaging states that controlled population growth.

Ajinkya Rahane's retirement sparks heartfelt tributes from India's cricket stars

Ajinkya Rahane's retirement sparks heartfelt tributes from India's cricket stars

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Ajinkya Rahane's retirement from international cricket drew tributes from the cricket fraternity, including Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suryakumar Yadav and KL Rahul, who praised his contribution to Indian cricket and wished him success for the future.

Arjun Tendulkar Commits To Goa; Ends Exit Rumours

Arjun Tendulkar Commits To Goa; Ends Exit Rumours

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Arjun Tendulkar, son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, has confirmed he will continue playing for the Goa cricket team, dispelling recent rumours of his departure after missing a tour to Oman.

Cong's 'gungi gudiya' jibe at Maha deputy CM Sunetra Pawar sparks row

Cong's 'gungi gudiya' jibe at Maha deputy CM Sunetra Pawar sparks row

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Maharashtra Congress on Tuesday branded deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar a "gungi gudiya" (mute doll), drawing a sharp rebuttal from the Nationalist Congress Party, which asked if the Opposition party now endorses the infamous slur once hurled at former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

'Coach's Favourites': Badrinath's Dig at Gambhir's Choices

'Coach's Favourites': Badrinath's Dig at Gambhir's Choices

Rediff.com1 days ago

Former India batter S Badrinath has expressed concerns regarding India's T20I squad for the upcoming Afghanistan series, particularly questioning the consistent inclusion of Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy. He suggested that some selections might be influenced by team management preferences. Badrinath also welcomed Jasprit Bumrah's potential return, calling it a significant boost for the team ahead of the Asian Games.

Tension in Navi Mumbai as BJP, Uddhav Sena workers clash over SIR forms

Tension in Navi Mumbai as BJP, Uddhav Sena workers clash over SIR forms

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Navi Mumbai after thousands of SIR forms, used for voter list revision, were allegedly found at a photocopy shop. This led to a clash between Shiv Sena (UBT) and BJP activists, with allegations of voter list manipulation and questions raised about the transparency of the electoral process.

2 burqa-clad women denied entry at Mumbai hospital

2 burqa-clad women denied entry at Mumbai hospital

Rediff.com4 days ago

Security personnel reportedly justified the action due to child theft concerns and identity verification.

Ignacio Buse Follows Grandfather's Footsteps With Maiden US Open Win

Ignacio Buse Follows Grandfather's Footsteps With Maiden US Open Win

Rediff.com2 days ago

Peruvian tennis player Ignacio Buse secured his maiden US Open victory, defeating Marcos Giron in a five-setter.

10-year-old made to stand in sun for not bringing book to school, dies

10-year-old made to stand in sun for not bringing book to school, dies

Rediff.com5 days ago

A 10-year-old girl student in an East Delhi government school died last week, with her family alleging she was punished by being made to stand in the sun for not bringing a book. The incident at Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya on August 27 led to protests and an ongoing police investigation.

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

Rediff.com1 days ago

Heavy rainfall caused significant waterlogging in New Delhi, particularly near IGI Airport, just days before the BRICS Summit. The incident highlighted coordination issues among various city agencies, with PWD officials attributing some flooding to other departments, despite a recent review meeting by the Lieutenant Governor to ensure inter-agency synergy.

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing a deepening crisis after his proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup was abandoned, leading to public distancing from influential executives and calls for his removal from office.

College student arrested for morphing pix of teachers, students

College student arrested for morphing pix of teachers, students

Rediff.com1 days ago

A college student in Kochi has been arrested for allegedly morphing photographs and videos of teachers and female students into obscene content and circulating them on social media platforms like Telegram and Instagram. The arrest followed a complaint from the college management, which also dismissed the student. Police are investigating the extent of the network and potential financial motives.

Chirag Paswan rejects 'elder brother' claim by Swatantra Bhardwaj

Chirag Paswan rejects 'elder brother' claim by Swatantra Bhardwaj

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Minister Chirag Paswan has pledged to ensure justice for Nishu Azad's father, who was severely injured during protests at Jantar Mantar. Paswan has filed a formal complaint against Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, who allegedly assaulted Azad's father and boasted about it, claiming political connections. Bhardwaj has since been detained. Paswan also called for an investigation into molestation allegations against a state minister from his party.

AI Giants Unveil Advanced Models, Raising Critical Safety Questions

AI Giants Unveil Advanced Models, Raising Critical Safety Questions

Rediff.com2 days ago

OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have unveiled new AI models with enhanced capabilities, including advanced cybersecurity and coding. OpenAI's Astra model achieved a 'Critical' cybersecurity tier, but its novel architecture, using "recurrent depth," has sparked significant safety concerns among researchers who fear it makes monitoring the model's reasoning more difficult. Anthropic and Google also introduced new models and features, further advancing AI technology while the debate over responsible development intensifies.

Agarkar absent as BCCI reviews England, Ireland failures; tenure extension still unclear

Agarkar absent as BCCI reviews England, Ireland failures; tenure extension still unclear

Rediff.com1 days ago

Ajit Agarkar, chairman of the senior men's selection committee, was notably absent from a BCCI review meeting discussing India's recent limited-overs tour performances against Ireland and England, citing travel issues. The meeting, attended by captains and coaches, did not address his contract extension, which is due to expire soon.

Make HIV Tests Compulsory Before A Wedding

Make HIV Tests Compulsory Before A Wedding

Rediff.com10 hours ago

We check horoscopes. We check family background. We check whether the boy has a 'government job' or the girl 'knows how to cook'. Somewhere in this elaborate audit, nobody thought to ask: Hey, are you both healthy?

Hurriyat ex-leader Bilal Lone's political foray sparks family rivalry in J-K

Hurriyat ex-leader Bilal Lone's political foray sparks family rivalry in J-K

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Former Hurriyat Conference leader Bilal Gani Lone on Sunday held a workers' rally in north Kashmir's Handwara constituency, signalling his entry into mainstream politics while asserting his claim to the political legacy of his slain father, Abdul Gani Lone.