News for 'Sport and Culture'

How India's Youth Volleyball Ecosystem Is Building Olympic Aspirations

How India's Youth Volleyball Ecosystem Is Building Olympic Aspirations

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

India's burgeoning franchise volleyball ecosystem, particularly with dedicated Under-21 tournaments like the Guardians Trophy, is creating a structured pathway for young players. This initiative aims to develop talent from the grassroots to professional levels, fostering cultural adaptation and skill enhancement, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the senior national team and achieving Olympic qualification.

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Businesses across sectors are positioning themselves to capitalise on the expected surge in demand.

Dravid's disagrees with Gambhir's 'superstar culture' idea

Dravid's disagrees with Gambhir's 'superstar culture' idea

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Former India coach Rahul Dravid has shared his views on Gautam Gambhir's idea of moving Indian cricket away from 'superstar culture'.

Randhir Singh, Veteran Sports Administrator, Cremated In Haridwar

Randhir Singh, Veteran Sports Administrator, Cremated In Haridwar

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Veteran sports administrator and India's first Asian Games shooting gold medallist Randhir Singh was cremated in Haridwar. Singh died at his New Delhi residence after battling age-related ailments. He was 79.

The story behind the music playing at FIFA World Cup stadiums

The story behind the music playing at FIFA World Cup stadiums

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

World Cup music isn't random; FIFA's 'Stadium Entertainment Team' curates over 750 songs, mixing global classics with country-specific favourites, with each team having signature, warm-up, and goal-scoring tracks.

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Watching the World Cup and hearing the music in the stadium may have left you wondering - how is that chosen? Is it just coincidence that "Wonderwall" plays after England matches? Are "Freed from Desire" or "Livin' on a Prayer" always played? And why?

When Fan Culture Turns Toxic: Cricket's Online Hate Industry Exposed

When Fan Culture Turns Toxic: Cricket's Online Hate Industry Exposed

Rediff.com26 May 2026

From online abuse targeting cricketers' families to paid hate campaigns and bot-driven fan wars, cricket's social media ecosystem has spiraled into a toxic industry driven by outrage, algorithms and commercial interests.

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony at the OVO Hydro, blending Scottish heritage with modern performances. King Charles III declared the Games open, emphasising a message of sustainability, particularly regarding plastic pollution in oceans. The event showcased a new, more compact model for the Games, focusing on existing venues and integrated Para sports, following Glasgow's role as a step-in host.

Why Magnus Carlsen Remains A Sporting Icon In Norway

Why Magnus Carlsen Remains A Sporting Icon In Norway

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Magnus Carlsen's popularity remains undiminished in Norway, with many believing he is unbeatable on home turf, even as he hints at moving away from classical chess.

J-K Lieutenant Governor Calls On Athletes To Promote 'Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan'

J-K Lieutenant Governor Calls On Athletes To Promote 'Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan'

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha urged athletes and sportspersons to promote the 'Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan' and inspire youth to reject drugs and embrace sports during the All India Inter-University Wushu Championship at the University of Kashmir.

ODI cricket's future hinges on this major ICC plan

ODI cricket's future hinges on this major ICC plan

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The era of 'randomly' scheduling bilateral series is over, but the ODI format can continue to survive and thrive with its place 'inextricably' linked to the World Cup, said ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta in an interview to PTI.

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony blending Scottish heritage and a strong message of sustainability. King Charles III declared the Games open, highlighting efforts to combat plastic pollution. The event featured a unique indoor setting, an early athletes' parade including the Indian contingent, and diverse musical and cultural performances, setting a new precedent for the multi-sport event.

Ahmedabad Prepares For Historic 2030 Commonwealth Games Handover In Glasgow

Ahmedabad Prepares For Historic 2030 Commonwealth Games Handover In Glasgow

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Ahmedabad is set to officially become the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with a formal handover ceremony taking place during the closing of the Glasgow 2026 Games.

Boxer Jaismine Lamboria Named India's Flag-Bearer For CWG Closing Ceremony

Boxer Jaismine Lamboria Named India's Flag-Bearer For CWG Closing Ceremony

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

World champion boxer Jaismine Lamboria, a two-time Commonwealth Games medalist, has been chosen as India's flag-bearer for the closing ceremony in Glasgow. India is also set to host the next edition of the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, with a cultural handover segment planned.

Why Preeti almost quit boxing before winning CWG gold

Why Preeti almost quit boxing before winning CWG gold

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Following her Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medal win, Indian boxer Preeti Pawar reflected on the learning experience that the event gave her ahead of the Asian Games this year and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, the boxing culture in her hometown Bhiwani, known as 'Mini Cuba' for producing world-class talent and the fulfillment of her baklava promise after her medal win in Glasgow.

Modi slams TMC over Messi Kolkata visit chaos, cites 'jungle raj'

Modi slams TMC over Messi Kolkata visit chaos, cites 'jungle raj'

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Narendra Modi hits out at Trinamool Congress over chaos during Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit, promises boost to Bengal sports ecosystem.

How Hydration Breaks Are Reshaping Tactics at the 2026 World Cup

How Hydration Breaks Are Reshaping Tactics at the 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

FIFA's new hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup have sparked controversy, with coaches including Marcelo Bielsa and Gustavo Alfaro claiming they disrupt football's rhythm and serve commercial interests more than player welfare.

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA plans to create a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage the World Cup and other events, offering up to 20% stakes to external investors, a move that has drawn fierce criticism from UEFA, who accused the governing body of putting the game's 'soul' up for sale.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

Manchester City's new head coach Maresca faces a monumental EPL challenge

Manchester City's new head coach Maresca faces a monumental EPL challenge

Rediff.com5 days ago

Manchester City enter a challenging post-Guardiola era, with Enzo Maresca tasked with preserving their dominance, managing squad changes and meeting immense expectations in a fiercely competitive Premier League.

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

'Our biggest opportunity lies with the younger age-group teams.' 'If you look at the senior national team, our chances are about 50-50.' 'The gap becomes smaller as you move down the age groups.' 'At the Under-20 level, it's closer to 60-40.' 'By the Under-17 level, it's around 80-20. That's where I feel we have our best chance.'

How Owais Yaqoob's Victory United A Nation

How Owais Yaqoob's Victory United A Nation

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Mixed martial arts fighter Owais Yaqoob received a hero's welcome in his native Pulwama village after defeating Bulgarian Delyan Georgiev. Yaqoob expressed gratitude for national support, highlighting that over 1.6 million Indians watched his fight live. Despite pre-fight injuries and illness, he secured the victory and is now preparing for a grappling match in Istanbul featuring UFC fighters. He also spoke about representing Kashmiri culture.

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Argentina's dark blue away jersey holds significant historical and superstitious value for the team, particularly in World Cup encounters against England. The team will wear this kit in their upcoming semi-final, hoping to replicate past successes from 1986 and 1998, where the blue jersey was worn during famous victories over England. Both coaches acknowledge the role of superstition in high-level sports, though Argentina's coach downplays the specific jersey choice. The jersey also features cultural motifs.

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the country's youth to take a pledge against substance abuse, saying drugs can give them a "high" for some time, but would make their entire career and personal life "low".

Taekema: India Women Can Emulate China's Paris Olympics Rise

Taekema: India Women Can Emulate China's Paris Olympics Rise

Rediff.com6 days ago

Dutch hockey legend Taeke Taekema believes the Indian women's hockey team possesses the talent to replicate China's remarkable journey to an Olympic silver medal, provided they focus on fundamental skills and secure qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

How Yuvraj's prank nearly cost Ganguly his captaincy

How Yuvraj's prank nearly cost Ganguly his captaincy

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh recounted an elaborate April Fool's Day prank in 2005 where he and Yuvraj Singh convinced then-captain Sourav Ganguly that he had publicly criticised his teammates, leading Ganguly to panic and offer to resign.

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya joined a cycling event in Ahmedabad to mark the 75th edition of 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' and Commonwealth Games Day, encouraging citizens to embrace cycling for fitness and short commutes. The event saw participation from athletes, celebrities, and citizens across India.

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Inspiring Chhattisgarh's Youth

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Inspiring Chhattisgarh's Youth

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised Sachin Tendulkar's visit to the Bastar region, highlighting its inspirational impact on children and youth. Tendulkar's visit to Dantewada district, as part of a grassroots sports initiative, signifies the region's transformation from a Maoist stronghold to a hub of development and opportunity.

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh believes the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, particularly the IPL, poses a significant threat to the future of bilateral international cricket, stating that '70 per cent (people are watching club cricket instead of international cricket)'.

Hyderabad To Host Archery Premier League Season 2 In October

Hyderabad To Host Archery Premier League Season 2 In October

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The second season of the Archery Premier League (APL) will be held in Hyderabad from October 8-18, featuring 48 Indian and international archers across six franchises. The tournament aims to bolster India's Olympic medal prospects in archery.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 23rd FIFA World Cup, to be staged across the Americas from June 11 to July 19, has once again ignited excitement across the globe. India, despite its national football team languishing at 139th in the FIFA rankings, has been swept up in the tournament's magic.

King Charles III, Queen Camilla to inaugurate scaled-down Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

King Charles III, Queen Camilla to inaugurate scaled-down Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

King Charles III and Queen Camilla will attend the opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games on July 23, where the King will read his message from the King's Baton, officially declaring the scaled-down multi-sport event open.

The Cornish connection: How English miners shaped Mexican football

The Cornish connection: How English miners shaped Mexican football

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Ahead of England's World Cup clash in Mexico, discover the remarkable 200-year-old story of how Cornish miners introduced football and the famous Cornish pasty to the country, shaping Mexico's sporting and cultural identity.

SAI Workshop Aims To Boost Ethical Sports Science Research

SAI Workshop Aims To Boost Ethical Sports Science Research

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Sports Authority of India (SAI), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), conducted a workshop on Good Clinical Practice (GCP) to strengthen ethical sports science research.

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Union home ministry directed all the states and Union territories on Monday to adhere to the Flag Code, underlining that while flags made of paper may be waved by the public on occasions of important national, cultural and sports events, those should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after the events.

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Inspiring Youth In Bastar

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Inspiring Youth In Bastar

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's visit to the Bastar region in Chhattisgarh is hailed as a source of inspiration for youth, promoting sports and instilling confidence in the once Maoist-affected area.

Rajasthan: Schoolchildren turn journalists to bridge rural news gap

Rajasthan: Schoolchildren turn journalists to bridge rural news gap

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A government school in Raholi, Tonk, Rajasthan, has launched its own student-run newspaper, 'Raholi Shiksha Samachar' and 'Raholi Education Times', to address the lack of newspaper access in rural areas and provide students with a platform for creativity and journalism skills.

'75-25': Nakamura makes shock call on Gukesh's title defence

'75-25': Nakamura makes shock call on Gukesh's title defence

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

World champion D Gukesh is 'crumbling under the weight of expectations' and needs to 'shut out the noise' to regain his form ahead of his title defence, said American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura. Nakamura also revealed that the 2028 Chess Olympiad could potentially be his last tournament featuring 'true classical' chess.

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Argentina, one of football's most successful teams, is also one of its most polarising, inspiring both devotion and irritation due to its history, iconic players like Maradona and Messi, and a national identity often perceived as arrogant by rivals.