News for 'Sport and Culture'

India To Host Season 4 Of The Global Chess League

India To Host Season 4 Of The Global Chess League

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The fourth season of the Global Chess League (GCL), a joint initiative of Tech Mahindra and FIDE, will be held in India, aiming to leverage the country's booming chess culture, the tournament organisers announced on Friday.

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Canadian singer Nora Fatehi has released her latest international collaboration, "Siir Siir," which is part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 music programme, marking another significant global milestone in her career. The track, featuring Vegedream, blends pop and R&B, celebrating her multicultural journey and expanding her international fan base.

Budget 2026: Sports goods sector gets Rs 500 cr boost; Rs 900 cr for Khelo India

Budget 2026: Sports goods sector gets Rs 500 cr boost; Rs 900 cr for Khelo India

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The government's flagship Khelo India programme received an allocation of Rs 924.35 crore.

'We don't want money or parades': Satwik hits back

'We don't want money or parades': Satwik hits back

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Ace doubles badminton player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy clarified his recent comments regarding the muted public reception after the Indian team won the Thomas Cup bronze medal, emphasising the need to celebrate all sporting achievements.

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.

Why Bosnia fans are taking over a California restaurant

Why Bosnia fans are taking over a California restaurant

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Ahead of Bosnia's World Cup Round of 32 match against the United States, a Bosnian restaurant in Northern California has become a gathering place for passionate fans. For many, the event is more than football-it's a celebration of their culture, resilience, and journey to a new home.

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

CAT and MBA expert and rediffGURU Patrick D'Souza explains how a simple daily reading habit can help aspirants clinch 99 percentile in the Common Admission Test this year.

GDN To Dada: 10 Coming Biopics That Have Our Attention

GDN To Dada: 10 Coming Biopics That Have Our Attention

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

From Dr A P J Abdul Kalam to Sourav Ganguly, these coming biopics are bringing some of India's most fascinating lives to the big screen.

India Basketball League Set To Launch In 2027

India Basketball League Set To Launch In 2027

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The India Basketball League (IBL), backed by former NBA stars, is set to launch in 2027 with the aim of building a professional basketball ecosystem in India. The league hopes to tap into India's expanding youth culture and create a sustainable professional structure for Indian basketball.

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.

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Former England spinner Graeme Swann has questioned ECB's imposition of midnight curfew on players, and termed Ben Stokes a victim of the culture more interested in policing than celebrating an achievement.

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Iran's players say adversity has united Team Melli after a resilient 0-0 draw against Belgium kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive. A win over Egypt could secure a historic first-ever place in the last 32.

FIFA World Cup 2026: 'The Leopards' Arrive in Style

FIFA World Cup 2026: 'The Leopards' Arrive in Style

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Democratic Republic of Congo's national football team, known as 'The Leopards', make a striking and stylish entrance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India's most-capped hockey player Manpreet Singh idolises Virat Kohli and credits his longevity to fitness, saying he has drawn inspiration from the star cricketer's fitness regime.

How Manav Shah Chose Golf Over Medicine And Reached US Open

How Manav Shah Chose Golf Over Medicine And Reached US Open

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Indian-origin golfer Manav Shah, born in California to Gujarati parents, is set to make his US Open debut after years of dedication on public courses and global qualifying circuits. His journey includes reconnecting with his Indian roots through the Asian Tour and the Indian Golf Premier League, which he credits for strengthening his self-belief.

Siddhesh Lad-led Maratha Royals unveil 'Royal Roar' jersey in Mumbai

Siddhesh Lad-led Maratha Royals unveil 'Royal Roar' jersey in Mumbai

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Defending champions MSC Maratha Royals unveiled their new 'Royal Roar' jersey ahead of the T20 Mumbai League 2026, blending tiger-inspired design, Mumbai street culture and fearless championship ambition.

BAI Launches Mascot Design Contest For Badminton World Championships

BAI Launches Mascot Design Contest For Badminton World Championships

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has announced a nationwide mascot design contest for the upcoming BWF World Championships 2026, inviting fans, artists, and creators to play a role in shaping the identity of one of badminton's most prestigious global events.

Despite Hurdles, World Cup Fans Find Unique Charm In Toronto

Despite Hurdles, World Cup Fans Find Unique Charm In Toronto

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Despite initial challenges like unsold tickets and a rained-out fan festival, visitors are flocking to Toronto for the first-ever World Cup soccer match in Canada. Fans are drawn by factors such as lower drinking age compared to the US, cultural similarities, and Canada's diverse immigrant population, creating a unique and determined atmosphere for the tournament.

Snoop Dogg sends Swansea crowd into a frenzy

Snoop Dogg sends Swansea crowd into a frenzy

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

American rapper and producer Snoop Dogg received a guard of honour and was greeted with twirling white towels on Tuesday on his first visit to Swansea City since becoming an investor with the Welsh side last year.

Hockey India Considers Life Bans Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

Hockey India Considers Life Bans Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Hockey India has called an urgent executive board meeting to address a series of sexual harassment, misconduct, and indiscipline cases, considering stringent actions including life bans.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A champions' mentality, a new generation of fearless players are some of the qualities that will have Saudi Arabia wary of the former champions in their upcoming Group H match on Sunday.

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.

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.

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand, saying the demands of captaincy had burned him out after a remarkable career featuring World Cup glory and Ashes heroics.

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Nora Fatehi has successfully transitioned to the global stage, with her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem Siir Siir becoming a viral hit, especially following Morocco's impressive draw against Brazil.

Drake enters football with 100M Euros power move

Drake enters football with 100M Euros power move

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Italian second-tier soccer club Venezia has secured a significant minority investment from sports industry heavyweight Tim Leiweke, thanks in part to Canadian rapper Drake.

Why Discipline Is Key For Indian Women's Hockey

Why Discipline Is Key For Indian Women's Hockey

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Indian women's hockey team chief coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasises the importance of discipline for consistent performance in upcoming tournaments, following an impressive outing against Argentina. The team is preparing for the FIH Nation's Cup in New Zealand and the Asian Games.

'National Sports Bill will usher in new era for sports in India'

'National Sports Bill will usher in new era for sports in India'

Rediff.com19 Jul 2025

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju feels that the National Sports Governance Bill, which is set to be tabled in the monsoon session beginning on Monday, will usher in a 'new era' for sports in India.

Ahmedabad Gears Up for AVC Men's Cup 2026 Following Official Draw

Ahmedabad Gears Up for AVC Men's Cup 2026 Following Official Draw

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Sports Authority of Gujarat hosted the drawing of lots for the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Men's Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad. The tournament is scheduled for June 20-28 at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, featuring 12 teams divided into two pools.

India Outlines Vision for Athlete-Centric, Sustainable 2030 Commonwealth Games

India Outlines Vision for Athlete-Centric, Sustainable 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare to discuss preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, focusing on efficient delivery, sustainability, and legacy planning.

Cristo Fernandez Trades Acting For Pro Football

Cristo Fernandez Trades Acting For Pro Football

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernandez, known for playing Dani Rojas, has signed a professional football contract with El Paso Locomotive FC, a U.S. second-tier team, fulfilling a lifelong dream after overcoming a past knee injury.

How Yan Diomande Went From Florida To World Cup

How Yan Diomande Went From Florida To World Cup

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old winger from the Ivory Coast, has experienced a meteoric rise in the world of football, going from playing in a Florida high school to representing his country at the World Cup. His journey involved overcoming cultural challenges and excelling in both the United States and Europe, ultimately leading to his selection for the Ivory Coast national team.

Need to build sports culture to win more medals: Gopichand

Need to build sports culture to win more medals: Gopichand

Rediff.com29 Aug 2016

Pullela Gopichand, who has coached Olympic medallist shuttlers Saina Nehwal and P V Sindhu, on Monday said that India can win a bagful of Olympic medals only if sports culture is built in the country through nurturing talent at the grassroot level. Wrestler Sakshi Malik and Sindhu saved India the blushes at the Rio Olympic Games by winning a bronze and a silver respectively.

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Ten days after the expansion of the BJP government's cabinet in West Bengal, key portfolios have been allocated, with senior leader Tapas Roy taking charge of industries and journalist-turned-politician Swapan Dasgupta appointed finance minister.

LA Knight Riders stadium to host Olympic cricket

LA Knight Riders stadium to host Olympic cricket

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta hailed the ground breaking of the cricket venue for the 2028 Olympics as a historic moment, fulfilling a long-awaited promise to bring the sport to the global stage.

How Cricket Strengthens India-Jamaica Relations

How Cricket Strengthens India-Jamaica Relations

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the unifying role of cricket between India and Jamaica, dedicating a digital scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park in Kingston.

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.

'Australia can assist India in Olympic sports'

'Australia can assist India in Olympic sports'

Rediff.com11 Sep 2025

Australia can definitely help India to become better at Olympic sports: Steve Waugh

Kane Williamson: The Cricketer Who Made Me Cry

Kane Williamson: The Cricketer Who Made Me Cry

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

One of the world's gentleman cricketers has quietly walked away from the game, just as he played it: With grace, dignity, and zero fuss.

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Pochettino expects a "very tough game" against Paraguay, praising their aggression and discipline.