News for 'Sport and Culture'

End of an era: Chennai Super Kings parts ways with coach Stephen Fleming

End of an era: Chennai Super Kings parts ways with coach Stephen Fleming

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Under Stephen Fleming, CSK won 5 IPL trophies as well as 2 Champions League Twenty20 tournaments.

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.

The Irrfan Film That Almost Didn't Get Made

The Irrfan Film That Almost Didn't Get Made

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

'It would have never crossed anybody's mind where life would have taken us or that Irrfanji would fall sick.'

India Bids to Host Prestigious World Mind Games

India Bids to Host Prestigious World Mind Games

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has invited bids from India and other countries to host the next edition of the World Mind Games, scheduled for later this year or early 2027, capitalising on the growing popularity of chess and other mind sports in India.

IOA Confirms Smaller Contingent For Glasgow Commonwealth Games

IOA Confirms Smaller Contingent For Glasgow Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) CEO Raghuram Iyer announced that India will send 125-130 athletes to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, participating in eight able-bodied and four para sports. The IOA is also preparing for the Asian Games and is in talks with the IOC for India's 2036 Olympic bid in Ahmedabad, which is also set to host the 2030 CWG. Iyer clarified that the IOA will not interfere in athlete selection matters.

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlights India's transformation in sports, moving beyond cricket and hockey to achieve global recognition, driven by government investment and initiatives like the Khelo India programme.

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

President Droupadi Murmu presented the honours to eminent personalities and posthumous awardees for their exceptional contributions.

Naomi Osaka's 'Kill Bill' Kimono Outfit Turns Heads At Wimbledon

Naomi Osaka's 'Kill Bill' Kimono Outfit Turns Heads At Wimbledon

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Naomi Osaka walked onto Court 3 in an all-white kimono, the traditional national dress of Japan, paired with a traditional kanzashi hair ornament, before unveiling a white Nike dress.

Brendon McCullum Takes Responsibility For England Test Team's Underperformance

Brendon McCullum Takes Responsibility For England Test Team's Underperformance

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Former England Test coach Brendon McCullum has apologised for the team's performance during his tenure, acknowledging that the 'Bazball' approach did not yield desired results in key series against Australia and India. His departure follows a home series defeat to New Zealand and mounting pressure after the Ashes loss.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

In Peru, there is a wave of new baby Haalands. In Argentina, Lionel has raced up the rankings, and in Mexico a girl was reportedly named after three soccer players. Parents in Latin America are already christening a new generation of babies after the stars of the World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Captain Messi trusts Argentina's never-say-die spirit

FIFA World Cup 2026: Captain Messi trusts Argentina's never-say-die spirit

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Messi, who said he was thoroughly enjoying the ride at his sixth World Cup and giving no thought to retirement, was looking forward to locking horns with 2010 champions Spain in New Jersey on Sunday.

Hyderabad Toofans Appoint Paul Revington As Head Coach

Hyderabad Toofans Appoint Paul Revington As Head Coach

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former England coach Paul Revington has been appointed as the head coach of Hyderabad Toofans for the upcoming Hockey India League season. Revington aims to build a championship-winning culture and develop Indian talent, leveraging the team's past success as bronze and silver medallists.

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, Bay Area soccer clubs and supporters hope the tournament will inspire a new generation of fans and strengthen the region's thriving grassroots football culture.

Why Naomi Osaka Wore a Japanese Obi at Wimbledon

Why Naomi Osaka Wore a Japanese Obi at Wimbledon

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Naomi Osaka advanced to the third round of Wimbledon 2026, drawing significant attention for her unique outfit. She wore a traditional white obi, a sash from Japanese kimonos, blending her heritage with Wimbledon's strict all-white dress code. This sartorial choice, reflecting themes of discipline and identity, accompanied her strong performance on court.

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Japan's fans once again captured the world's admiration after clearing thrash from the stands following their Group F match against the Netherlands on Sunday.

Spanish Striker Alfred Planas Moya Joins Punjab FC

Spanish Striker Alfred Planas Moya Joins Punjab FC

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Punjab FC has announced the signing of Spanish forward Alfred Planas Moya on a one-year contract until May 2027. Moya, who previously played for Inter Kashi FC and Gokulam Kerala, brings experience from various Spanish clubs and will aim to bolster Punjab FC's performance.

T20 is here to stay, not too sure about ODIs, says Ashwin

T20 is here to stay, not too sure about ODIs, says Ashwin

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is a necessary addition in the existing assortment of franchise-based tourneys as the format is here to stay unlike ODIs, said Indian spin bowling legend Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday.

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Despite a wobbly screenplay and an overstretched runtime, Anbe Diana charms with its light-hearted approach and Ramya Ranganathan's performance.

Arsene Wenger backs Kylian Mbappe's France to win FIFA World Cup 2026

Arsene Wenger backs Kylian Mbappe's France to win FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Former Arsenal manager and FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development Arsene Wenger has backed Kylian Mbappe's France to win the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, saying Spain are the only team capable of stopping the two-time champions because of their superior technical quality.

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash against England, Argentina fans are engaging in traditional 'cabalas' or superstitions, including freezing captain Harry Kane's name, to bring their national team good fortune on the pitch.

'We can hurt Argentina': Cape Verde coach declares

'We can hurt Argentina': Cape Verde coach declares

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cape Verde head into the biggest match in their football history full of belief, with coach Pedro Leitao Brito insisting his side will play "with courage" against defending champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32.

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

FIFA has confirmed that rainbow flags will be permitted at the World Cup match between Egypt and Iran in Seattle, which coincides with the city's Pride weekend. This decision comes despite objections from Egypt and Iran, where homosexuality is criminalised, and FIFA's attempt to distance itself from the "Pride Match" designation, stating it's a local initiative.

Cricket And Yoga Mark Indian Diaspora Event In Shanghai

Cricket And Yoga Mark Indian Diaspora Event In Shanghai

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Indian Consul General in Shanghai inaugurated the annual East China Indian Diaspora Cricket Tournament and a curtain-raiser event for the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026, highlighting the community's strong cultural presence and global outreach.

Shreyas Iyer joins Mumbai Falcons as face of F1 sim racing push

Shreyas Iyer joins Mumbai Falcons as face of F1 sim racing push

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Mumbai Falcons Racing Limited (MFRL) has named Shreyas Iyer as the brand ambassador for its Formula 1 programme in India.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico, where every patch of ground becomes a football pitch

FIFA World Cup: Mexico, where every patch of ground becomes a football pitch

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Across World Cup co-host Mexico, soccer pitches are laid out wherever communities can find the space. On the edges of towns, on highway underpasses, and even in a volcano crater, spaces are cleared that allow the young and the old to share in the dream of the beautiful game.

Revealed! The True Origin Of Maradona's $9 million 'Hand of God' Jersey

Revealed! The True Origin Of Maradona's $9 million 'Hand of God' Jersey

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Before Diego Maradona's famous blue shirt became a $9.28 million auction item, it may have had a humbler beginning in Tepito, Mexico City's market district.

Iran, Egypt face crunch World Cup game in shadow of geopolitics

Iran, Egypt face crunch World Cup game in shadow of geopolitics

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

A first World Cup win for seven-times African champions Egypt, 92 years after their debut, put them in charge though Iran's dogged performances in draws with Belgium and New Zealand means victory could also see them top Group G.

US Yoga Team To Participate In World Yogasana Championship

US Yoga Team To Participate In World Yogasana Championship

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

A team of yoga athletes from the United States is heading to India to participate in the maiden World Yogasana Championship to be held in Ahmedabad from June 4 to 8.

SEE: How K-Pop, Cuisine and Football United South Korea and Mexico

SEE: How K-Pop, Cuisine and Football United South Korea and Mexico

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Thanks to major companies like Kia, Mexico has seen a huge influx of South Korean population in places like Monterrey, with Korean cuisine and K-Pop becoming major influences in the country.

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Sami Khedira sees no identity crisis in his brother Rani playing for Tunisia at FIFA World Cup 2026.

Greek Tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis Takes Helm At Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Greek Tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis Takes Helm At Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant has appointed Greek tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis as their new head coach on a one-year contract. Known for his attacking yet balanced style and ability to blend youth with experience, Dilmperis aims to build a disciplined and courageous side to compete for all trophies, acknowledging the high expectations and the significance of the Kolkata Derby.

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) commenced in Chhattisgarh, providing a national stage for tribal athletes to showcase their abilities. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the event's significance in promoting sports culture and identifying talent from remote areas.

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

In the remote tribal village of Pahadpur, preparations are in full swing as it looks to script history.

FIFA World Cup PIX: Thousands of Colombia Fans Paint Mexico Yellow

FIFA World Cup PIX: Thousands of Colombia Fans Paint Mexico Yellow

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Thousands of Colombian football fans transformed Mexico City into a vibrant yellow sea, celebrating their national team's 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their World Cup opener. The city's streets and restaurants buzzed with supporters enjoying Colombian food, music, and a strong cultural connection, making the Estadio Azteca feel like a home venue for the victorious team.

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be football's largest tournament but will unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts, strained alliances, and complex immigration policies, challenging its traditional role as a symbol of global unity.

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.

Cape Verde dream big after stunning World Cup start

Cape Verde dream big after stunning World Cup start

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, have defied expectations by drawing with football giants Spain and Uruguay.

India Explores 2036 Olympic Bid During CWG Review

India Explores 2036 Olympic Bid During CWG Review

Rediff.com15 May 2026

A meeting to review India's Commonwealth Games preparations included discussions on advancing the country's bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, with Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi participating online.

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

England coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed Bukayo Saka is fully fit and available for the World Cup clash against Ghana, while also voicing concerns that FIFA's mandatory hydration breaks are disrupting the flow and identity of football.

10 Football Fever Moments From Bollywood

10 Football Fever Moments From Bollywood

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Exploring memorable scenes that celebrate football in the movies.