News for 'Spark'

Trump's post showing Obamas on graffiti-covered Air Force One sparks outrage

Trump's post showing Obamas on graffiti-covered Air Force One sparks outrage

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former US President Donald Trump posted a digitally altered image on Truth Social depicting Barack and Michelle Obama on Air Force One covered in graffiti. This incident follows a previous controversy where Trump's account shared and later deleted a 'racist' video portraying the Obamas as apes, leading to widespread bipartisan backlash.

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Regional football powerhouses, including UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, are reportedly discussing a vote of no confidence against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This move comes after Infantino angered them with a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Despite significant opposition, Infantino retains support from some member associations, particularly from Africa, complicating any challenge to his leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

Kerala right-wing political commentator held over NEET protest remarks

Kerala right-wing political commentator held over NEET protest remarks

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Right-wing political commentator T G Mohandas was arrested in Kochi for allegedly making inflammatory remarks in a YouTube video about a students' protest in Delhi. The remarks included claims about gang rape at protests and advocating for opening fire on protesters.

Actor Prakash Raj claims his name deleted from voter list amid SIR

Actor Prakash Raj claims his name deleted from voter list amid SIR

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Actor Prakash Raj has claimed his name was deleted from Bengaluru's electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision process, affecting 6.5 million voters. He expressed frustration and questioned the ruling dispensation, while reports indicate his name was marked as "permanently shifted" due to a previous case involving multiple voter IDs.

Full Vande Mataram sung at Cong's Independence Day event, BJP says Sonia objected to it

Full Vande Mataram sung at Cong's Independence Day event, BJP says Sonia objected to it

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The BJP accused Congress leader Sonia Gandhi of objecting to the full version of Vande Mataram at an Independence Day event, sparking a political row. The Congress denied the charge, stating Gandhi was only seeking a chair for party chief Mallikarjun Kharge and clarified the historical context of the song's usage.

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Over 14,000 members of the academic and scientific community have petitioned Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking intervention against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's "gau mutra expert" remark concerning IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti during parliamentary proceedings. The petition calls for the withdrawal of the derogatory expression, arguing it undermines the dignity of an eminent scientist and the institution he leads, and urges for respectful democratic discourse.

Karnataka BJP MLA's daughter booked for assaulting police officer at temple

Karnataka BJP MLA's daughter booked for assaulting police officer at temple

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

An FIR has been registered against Aishwarya, daughter of Karnataka BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda, for allegedly abusing and assaulting a woman police sub-inspector at a temple in Mandya. The incident occurred when Aishwarya reportedly sought to bypass a queue, leading to an altercation. While Aishwarya has also filed a counter-complaint, her father has apologised for her conduct and called for an inquiry into the matter, advocating for an end to VIP protocols at temples.

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Review: Delightful Romcom

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Review: Delightful Romcom

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit offers a delightful and charming cinematic experience, blending trademark humour with a sweet, unconventional love story, gushes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Google tells HC it has withheld Dhruv Rathee's 'defamatory' video in India

Google tells HC it has withheld Dhruv Rathee's 'defamatory' video in India

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Google has informed the Delhi High Court that it has withheld a "defamatory" YouTube video by social media influencer Dhruv Rathee in India. The video, which allegedly hurt religious sentiments by insulting Hindu deities, was withheld following an order from the Centre's Grievance Appellate Committee. The petitioner, Amita Sachdeva, seeks global blocking, but Google states the issue of global injunction is pending before a division bench.

Vishwanath And Sons Review: A Feel-Good Winner!

Vishwanath And Sons Review: A Feel-Good Winner!

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Suriya and Mamitha Baiju light up this warm-hearted family entertainer, even if the film loses some of its spark in the second half.

Collegium not giving reasons is disservice to judges: SC judge

Collegium not giving reasons is disservice to judges: SC judge

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has criticised the collegium system for its lack of transparency in judicial appointments, specifically the absence of stated reasons for elevations. He argues that this opacity allows unsuitable candidates, who may hold unconstitutional views, to enter the judiciary, citing recent controversial remarks by a High Court judge.

Sooryavanshi Could Spark Test Cricket Revival, Says Srikkanth

Sooryavanshi Could Spark Test Cricket Revival, Says Srikkanth

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can revive Test cricket if nurtured properly, urging patience and warning against excessive scrutiny of the young star.

If you love India and PM...: Raj Thackeray jabs Vivek Oberoi, R Madhavan

If you love India and PM...: Raj Thackeray jabs Vivek Oberoi, R Madhavan

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Raj Thackeray has sparked a debate by questioning actors Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan for praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development initiatives while choosing to reside in Dubai.

Commuters face chaos as technical snags hit Mumbai local trains

Commuters face chaos as technical snags hit Mumbai local trains

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Mumbai's local train services on both Western and Central Railway lines experienced significant disruptions due to multiple technical issues, including point failures and a fallen overhead wire, causing widespread delays and inconvenience for millions of daily commuters.

New BJP team: Many sidelined faces make a comeback

New BJP team: Many sidelined faces make a comeback

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Several prominent BJP leaders, including former Union minister Smriti Irani, RSS veteran Ram Madhav, and former chief ministers Biplab Kumar Deb and Tirath Singh Rawat, have been reinstated into significant roles within the party's national team. This reshuffle marks a political recovery for many who had previously seen their influence wane or lost electoral battles, positioning them for key organisational responsibilities ahead of upcoming elections.

Rishabh Pant's mother begins rebuilding ancestral home in Uttarakhand

Rishabh Pant's mother begins rebuilding ancestral home in Uttarakhand

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The reconstruction of cricketer Rishabh Pant's ancestral home in Pali-Amdali village, Pithoragarh, has begun, bringing happiness to locals who hope for his increased visits. His mother, Saroj Pant, initiated the rebuilding after a recent visit, aiming to strengthen Rishabh's connection to his roots in Uttarakhand.

Rishabh Pant's Ancestral Home Reconstruction Underway In Uttarakhand

Rishabh Pant's Ancestral Home Reconstruction Underway In Uttarakhand

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The reconstruction of cricketer Rishabh Pant's ancestral home in Pali-Amdali village, Pithoragarh, has begun, bringing happiness to locals who hope for his increased visits. His mother, Saroj Pant, initiated the rebuilding after a recent visit, aiming to strengthen Rishabh's connection to his roots in Uttarakhand.

Lakers set to break record with $12.5 billion sale

Lakers set to break record with $12.5 billion sale

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers NBA team is reportedly being sold to businessmen Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for an unprecedented $12.5 billion, a deal that would make it the most expensive sports team ever sold.

Kerala teacher suspended over Savarkar 'freedom fighter' quiz question

Kerala teacher suspended over Savarkar 'freedom fighter' quiz question

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A school teacher in Kerala has been suspended after a controversial question in a Social Science Club Freedom Quiz 2026 questionnaire identified V D Savarkar as the freedom fighter who received the maximum punishment from the British. The incident in Kasaragod district sparked widespread protests and criticism from Left organisations, leading to an inquiry and disciplinary action.

Public Assault In Berhampur Sparks Political Outrage

Public Assault In Berhampur Sparks Political Outrage

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A man and his female friend were assaulted in Berhampur, Odisha, leading to political condemnation and allegations of deteriorating law and order under the BJP government.

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Indian government has clarified that consumers will not be charged for UPI transactions, and most merchant transactions will also remain free. This comes amidst speculation following an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. Any future merchant discount rate (MDR) would be nominal, threshold-based, and aimed at ensuring UPI's long-term sustainability and infrastructure development.

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Iranian footballer Mohammad Mohebi's goal celebration during a World Cup match against New Zealand sparked controversy after some interpreted his hand gesture as a 'gun signal'. Mohebi denied any political intent, stating it was a spontaneous reaction.

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.

10 Films That Took Age-Gap Romance Seriously

10 Films That Took Age-Gap Romance Seriously

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

From Joggers Park to De De Pyaar De, these films dared to make the age gap between their unlikely lovers part of the story rather than something to quietly ignore.

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A new digital political phenomenon, the 'E20 Janta Party', is gaining traction on Instagram, mobilising Gen Z against the government's mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) and demanding Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's resignation.

Is Nia Sharma Dating Sikander Singh?

Is Nia Sharma Dating Sikander Singh?

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Rumours about Nia Sharma and Sikander Singh have been around for a while but neither of them has confirmed their relationship.

UTT Season 7: U Mumba beat Dempo Goa Challengers to clinch title

UTT Season 7: U Mumba beat Dempo Goa Challengers to clinch title

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

U Mumba TT produced a stirring comeback to end Dempo Goa Challengers' unbeaten run and successfully defend their Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7 title with an 8-5 victory in a gripping final in Panaji on Sunday.

Gambhir's Future On The Line As India Eye Reset Against Spin-Heavy Sri Lanka In Galle

Gambhir's Future On The Line As India Eye Reset Against Spin-Heavy Sri Lanka In Galle

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir's standing in red-ball cricket faces a crucial test as the team embarks on a two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

Airport Authority Gets Waiver Request Amid Adani Airline Buzz

Airport Authority Gets Waiver Request Amid Adani Airline Buzz

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Airports Authority of India has received a request for a waiver from contractual restrictions that prevent airport concessionaires and their group entities from holding equity in scheduled airlines, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed in the Rajya Sabha. This comes amid reports of the Adani group's interest in the airline business, despite their denial.

Girlfriends Day: Dress Up For A Date With Your Bestie

Girlfriends Day: Dress Up For A Date With Your Bestie

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Who says Galentine's should have all the fun? Girlfriends Day is the perfect excuse to dress up, head out and celebrate the women who make life brighter.

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) cancelled permission for a discussion on a book authored by its former student Umar Khalid, currently jailed in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case, citing 'non-disclosure of full facts' about the event. The JNUSU condemned the decision as 'arbitrary and authoritarian', vowing to proceed with the discussion at an alternative venue.

Youth held for sexual assault wants pizza, soft bed in Nagpur jail

Youth held for sexual assault wants pizza, soft bed in Nagpur jail

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A 19-year-old youth arrested in Nagpur for allegedly holding a minor girl captive and sexually assaulting her has made unusual demands in police custody, including pizza and soft bedding. The accused, Nirmay Madhav Pakhare, also refused to cooperate with the investigation into the alleged blackmail and assault of the 16-year-old victim, who was rescued with multiple injuries.

Bail to Shiv Sena corporator who thrashed doctors at hospital

Bail to Shiv Sena corporator who thrashed doctors at hospital

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and three associates have been granted bail by a Thane court after being arrested for allegedly assaulting doctors and medical staff at a civic-run hospital in Dombivli. The incident, which occurred after a family was advised to shift a newborn, sparked widespread outrage and led to their arrest following a viral video and pressure from the Indian Medical Association.

Why make Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vice-captain now? Bhogle questions

Why make Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vice-captain now? Bhogle questions

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle has raised concerns over the appointment of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as East Zone's vice-captain for the Duleep Trophy, citing his limited red-ball experience, while selectors defend the decision as a long-term learning opportunity.

Mehbooba holds national flag upside down during sit-in; legal action likely

Mehbooba holds national flag upside down during sit-in; legal action likely

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is facing potential legal action after she was seen holding the national flag upside down during a protest in Srinagar. The protest was against the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A. Officials are considering action for violating the Flag Code of India.

Udhayanidhi Stalin arrested for 'double-meaning' remark, released

Udhayanidhi Stalin arrested for 'double-meaning' remark, released

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin was arrested for an alleged 'double-meaning' remark alluding to actor Trisha, leading to widespread protests by DMK cadres and condemnation from various political leaders.

Has Iran war depleted US's missile defence stockpiles?

Has Iran war depleted US's missile defence stockpiles?

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has rejected a CNN report claiming that the Pentagon's missile defence stockpiles have fallen to 'dangerously low levels' amid the conflict with Iran.

Manisha Koirala: 'When I Returned From Cancer Treatment, He Called Me Home'

Manisha Koirala: 'When I Returned From Cancer Treatment, He Called Me Home'

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

'...there was a big party. The way he hugged me, I understood that deep friendship. And he understood the pain that I had gone through during my cancer.'

Nanded: Sukhbir Badal injured in kirpan attack, probe ordered

Nanded: Sukhbir Badal injured in kirpan attack, probe ordered

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal sustained a minor injury to his right hand after being attacked with a kirpan by a Nihang member inside a gurdwara in Nanded, Maharashtra. The assailant has been arrested, and SAD leaders are demanding a CBI probe into what they term an intelligence failure.

Sushmita Dev's 'lungiwala' slur against CPM MP Brittas rocks Rajya Sabha

Sushmita Dev's 'lungiwala' slur against CPM MP Brittas rocks Rajya Sabha

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned following an uproar over an alleged derogatory 'lungiwala' remark made by BJP MP Sushmita Dev against CPI(M)'s John Brittas, who had moved a privilege motion. Dev denied the accusation, stating she had not cast aspersions on any state's attire.