News for 'Spark'

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.

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.

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.

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.

Viral Video Sparks Police Probe Into Gurugram Petrol Pump Assault

Viral Video Sparks Police Probe Into Gurugram Petrol Pump Assault

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Gurugram police have launched an investigation after a CCTV video showing a group of youths assaulting a motorcyclist at a petrol pump went viral. The incident occurred on Thursday night, and police are working to identify the assailants and the victim, despite no formal complaint being filed yet.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rebel Trinamool MPs spark symbol war, claim mission to 'rectify' party

Rebel Trinamool MPs spark symbol war, claim mission to 'rectify' party

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Rebel Trinamool Congress MP Arup Chakraborty on Monday said the breakaway faction is trying to "rectify" the party, and would fight for the control of its election symbol, even as the Mamata Banerjee-led outfit termed the move illegal under the anti-defection law.

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.

Kerala Farmer's Death at CPI Office Sparks Investigation

Kerala Farmer's Death at CPI Office Sparks Investigation

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

A farmer was found dead at a CPI office premises in Kerala, leading to a police investigation and local protests.

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.

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.

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme claimed he would sign Erling Haaland if elected, triggering a swift response from Manchester City and the player's representatives.

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.

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.

'Felt insulted': Dalit bride forced to get off horse, sparks outrage

'Felt insulted': Dalit bride forced to get off horse, sparks outrage

Rediff.com9 May 2026

A Dalit bride in Rajasthan was forced to dismount from a mare during her wedding procession, sparking outrage and protests. The incident has led to demands for a fair investigation and action against those responsible.

Sudip Bandyopadhyay-Suvendu meet fuels NCPI-NDA alliance buzz

Sudip Bandyopadhyay-Suvendu meet fuels NCPI-NDA alliance buzz

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Lok Sabha MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay's closed-door meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, just before NCPI MPs were to attend an NDA meeting, has ignited speculation about the Nationalist Citizens Party of India's political future and its potential alignment with the BJP-led alliance. The NCPI comprises 20 rebel TMC MPs who broke away after the West Bengal Assembly election.

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.

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.

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.

Hardik Pandya visits Tirumala Temple with Mahieka Sharma, sports tonsured head

Hardik Pandya visits Tirumala Temple with Mahieka Sharma, sports tonsured head

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, currently recovering from injury, visited the revered Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma, sporting a tonsured head that has sparked speculation among fans.

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.

I was a moderate Hindu, now I want to convert to...: Kangana

I was a moderate Hindu, now I want to convert to...: Kangana

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Kangana Ranaut has sparked fresh controversy by declaring her intention to "convert" to an "awakened Hindu" ideology, aligning with BJP and RSS.

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.

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.

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.

IIMT University Student Death Sparks Suicide Investigation

IIMT University Student Death Sparks Suicide Investigation

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A 23-year-old MBA student died after falling from her hostel building at IIMT University in Meerut, India, prompting a police investigation and student protests.

IUML Support For Satheesan Sparks Political Debate In Kerala

IUML Support For Satheesan Sparks Political Debate In Kerala

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has voiced its support for V D Satheesan as the potential Chief Minister of Kerala if the Congress-led UDF alliance wins, drawing criticism from SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, who suggests this indicates the IUML would effectively rule the state.

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Statues of Kakori train action martyrs demolished in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during road construction, triggering outrage and demands for action.

Bakrid goat shed sparks scuffle in Mumbai society

Bakrid goat shed sparks scuffle in Mumbai society

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The controversy erupted at Srishti Complex in the Poonam Cluster area near Mira Road on Sunday after residents and Hindu organisations objected to the setting up of a shed for sacrificial goats on the housing complex premises, according to local officials.

Vineet Nayar's New Book: Why Human Uniqueness Matters In The AI Age

Vineet Nayar's New Book: Why Human Uniqueness Matters In The AI Age

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Former HCL Technologies CEO Vineet Nayar's new book, "Humans First, Machines Second: 30 Sparks for Winning in the Age of AI," argues that the greatest risk of the AI era is not advanced machines, but humanity losing faith in its unique capabilities. The book advocates for investing in human potential over solely adopting technology faster.

Vineet Nayar's New Book: Why Human Uniqueness Matters In The AI Age

Vineet Nayar's New Book: Why Human Uniqueness Matters In The AI Age

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Former HCL Technologies CEO Vineet Nayar's new book, "Humans First, Machines Second: 30 Sparks for Winning in the Age of AI," argues that the greatest risk of the AI era is not advanced machines, but humanity losing faith in its unique capabilities. The book advocates for investing in human potential over solely adopting technology faster.

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's position as FIFA president is deemed 'untenable' by the head of Europe's professional football leagues following his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, a move that triggered widespread protest and a loss of confidence from regional confederations.

Couple Assaulted In Odisha; Incident Sparks Outrage

Couple Assaulted In Odisha; Incident Sparks Outrage

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A man and his female friend were allegedly assaulted with sticks by a group of people in Odisha's Berhampur city, triggering outrage after a video of the incident went viral on social media.