News for 'TIME OFF'

No time to celebrate! CWG heroes shift focus to Asian Games

No time to celebrate! CWG heroes shift focus to Asian Games

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

India's Commonwealth Games medallists, fresh from a triumphant campaign in Glasgow, received a rousing welcome in New Delhi but quickly shifted their focus to the upcoming Asian Games, expressing determination to secure more medals.

Sanju Samson's Mindset Is His Invisible Muscle

Sanju Samson's Mindset Is His Invisible Muscle

Rediff.com7 days ago

A cricketer or sportsman must accept that there is no guarantee in sport -- only opportunities, preparation and perseverance, points out K R Nayar.

Sports Ministry Monitors Hockey India Internal Strife

Sports Ministry Monitors Hockey India Internal Strife

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry is closely monitoring the internal dispute within Hockey India between President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh, stemming from a controversial jersey colour change. The Ministry prefers the factions resolve their differences amicably before considering intervention.

'Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity': Gambhir

'Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity': Gambhir

Rediff.com7 days ago

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has clarified that young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will need to wait for his T20I debut, prioritising consistent performers like Sanju Samson. Gambhir also addressed the impact of the Asian Games on the ODI squad selection for the upcoming West Indies series, highlighting opportunities for new talent.

Pics: Readers Share Their Ganesha Blessings

Pics: Readers Share Their Ganesha Blessings

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Thank you, Dear Readers, for sharing your pictures of Lord Ganesha.

Alpine APL Pipers Secure Key Win In Global Chess League

Alpine APL Pipers Secure Key Win In Global Chess League

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Defending champions Alpine APL Pipers, led by World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi, defeated FYERS American Gambits 9-7 in a critical Global Chess League match. Carlsen ended Javokhir Sindarov's winning streak, while Gujrathi secured a marathon victory, propelling Pipers closer to a final berth.

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Rediff.com7 days ago

Anant Nag has dedicated the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 to the people and unique cultural environment of Karnataka, crediting the state for his unparalleled success in both art and commercial films.

'I'm shocked': Norris hails career best lap in Spanish GP pole

'I'm shocked': Norris hails career best lap in Spanish GP pole

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

McLaren's Lando Norris delivered a stunning 'wonder lap' to snatch pole position for the Spanish Grand Prix, beating championship leader Kimi Antonelli by a mere 0.011 seconds.

'I have a good chance': Karkera eyes Asian Games podium

'I have a good chance': Karkera eyes Asian Games podium

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Asian Games debutant Kartik Karkera, an orthopaedic doctor, expresses confidence in securing a podium finish in the men's marathon despite facing faster international competitors. He believes the challenging heat and humidity will make it a tactical race, playing to his strengths, and prioritises a medal over a personal best. Karkera also highlights the advantage of his 1500m background and medical knowledge in his training.

India refuse to accept Asia Cup trophy: 'We Stand By BCCI's Stance'

India refuse to accept Asia Cup trophy: 'We Stand By BCCI's Stance'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian women's cricket team fully supports the BCCI's decision not to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council's Pakistani chief Mohsin Naqvi, with head coach Amol Muzumdar stating that winning the tournament is 'good enough' for the players.

Delhi College Election Campaign Turns Violent, Students Injured

Delhi College Election Campaign Turns Violent, Students Injured

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Two students from Satyawati College were injured and two SUVs damaged during an altercation in northwest Delhi's Bharat Nagar area, near the college, while campaigning for student union elections. Police are investigating the incident, which involved reports of assault and firing, and are examining potential links to college rivalries or personal disputes.

Job aspirants seeking exam cancellations clash with police in Patna

Job aspirants seeking exam cancellations clash with police in Patna

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Government job aspirants in Patna staged a protest march demanding the cancellation of several recruitment exams, including for sub-inspector posts, citing alleged irregularities. The demonstration led to clashes with police, detentions, and disruption of public order and essential services. Protesters also called for an end to the contract system in BPSC exams and the publication of a job calendar.

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Rediff.com6 days ago

Its unresolved, noncommittal conclusion is exactly the sort of anticlimactic reality Daayra wants to bring our attention to. Neither justice nor revenge can undo the fate met by the world's Nirbhayas or Arushis, observes Sukanya Verma.

Warner hits back at Barmy Army after England fans take aim at his Ashes record

Warner hits back at Barmy Army after England fans take aim at his Ashes record

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

David Warner traded playful social-media barbs with the Barmy Army, responding to jibes about his England record with digs at recent English players' disciplinary troubles.

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Supreme Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to comply with its previous order to identify land for establishing Navodaya Vidyalayas in each district of the state, emphasising cooperative federalism and urging a change in mindset regarding the central government's education policy.

Indian athletics team faces visa delays ahead of Asian Games in Japan

Indian athletics team faces visa delays ahead of Asian Games in Japan

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A small contingent of the 74-member Indian athletics team is still awaiting visa clearance for Japan, potentially impacting their acclimatisation camp ahead of the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. AFI officials are working to resolve the issue, which stems from VFS requirements regarding application locations.

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shares of fintech firms, particularly Paytm, saw significant movement after the Indian government introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15.

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transfers above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15, ending nearly six years of free merchant payments. This move led to initial rallies in fintech stocks like Paytm and Mobikwik, though some later pared gains. Person-to-person transactions and small payments remain free for customers, with the fee being a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).

Aya Nagar Gym Trainer Murder: Police Recover Key Motorcycle, Suspects Identified

Aya Nagar Gym Trainer Murder: Police Recover Key Motorcycle, Suspects Identified

Rediff.com7 days ago

Police have recovered a motorcycle allegedly used in the killing of a 28-year-old gym trainer in Aya Nagar. Two suspects have been identified, and raids are underway to apprehend them. The investigation is delving into a long-running rivalry involving previous murders and potential organised crime links.

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'Nitishji as CM never supported the UCC and publicly expressed his strong reservations over UCC.'

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A new study published in AGU Advances reveals that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and expanding beyond traditional summer months globally. This expansion is asymmetric, occurring earlier in spring in regions like western Europe and northwestern India, and later into autumn in areas such as the western US and eastern China. Researchers highlight the challenges this poses for human acclimatisation and community preparedness, as existing infrastructure like cooling centres are built around historical summer calendars.

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

Rediff.com6 days ago

India's large contingent of 501 athletes is set to compete at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming to showcase the nation's growing sporting depth and its ambition to become a global top-10 sporting power by 2036. Despite initial accommodation challenges, the focus is on building on the momentum from the record 2022 Hangzhou Games, with strong medal hopes in shooting, athletics, cricket, badminton, and hockey.

'They Fought To The Last Man, Last Bullet, Last Breath'

'They Fought To The Last Man, Last Bullet, Last Breath'

Rediff.com6 days ago

I had found spending one night at 14,500 feet inside a cottage difficult to get by -- struggling to breathe in the cold, thin, mountain air. Here, our soldiers had fought a ferocious battle at much greater heights in bone-chilling weather, worse than I had encountered. 114 men were killed in action in a 16-hour epic battle against China in Rezang La, the farthest outpost along India's border with China.

Bigg Boss' Rhiti Tiwari Is The Baddest Of All!

Bigg Boss' Rhiti Tiwari Is The Baddest Of All!

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Rhiti Tiwari clearly didn't get the memo that a baddie has to stick to one aesthetic. Manoj Tiwari's daughter, who is now bringing her personality to the Bigg Boss 20 house, has a wardrobe that swings between biker-chic, futuristic glam and boho cool.

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'All the glaciers will disappear!'

Delhi Man Killed Over Matchbox Refusal; Three Accused Arrested

Delhi Man Killed Over Matchbox Refusal; Three Accused Arrested

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A minor dispute over a matchbox in northwest Delhi escalated into a fatal stabbing, leaving a 30-year-old construction worker dead and another man injured. Police have arrested three individuals, including the main accused, in connection with the incident.

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indonesian hockey players, particularly Ferdian Fathur Rahman and Firdaus Muhammad, are deeply inspired by the Bollywood film "Chak De! India" as they prepare to face India at the Asian Games.

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

A government bill proposing to widen the remit of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is facing scrutiny from Members of Parliament. Concerns have been raised that the Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026, could reduce the premier institute's autonomy. The bill, currently under examination by a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, aims to incorporate ISI as a 'body corporate' to strengthen governance and promote academic excellence, but critics fear increased government control.

Indian Esports Contingent Gears Up For Asian Games With Professional Training

Indian Esports Contingent Gears Up For Asian Games With Professional Training

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Indian esports athletes are rigorously training for the Asian Games in Nagoya, aiming for medals and challenging the traditional perception of gaming as merely a leisure activity. With professional support and coaching, players are balancing academics and intense practice, hoping to elevate esports to mainstream sporting status in India.

First in Indian Cricket! Vande Mataram Before National Anthem

First in Indian Cricket! Vande Mataram Before National Anthem

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

For the first time in an Indian men's cricket match, the national song Vande Mataram was played before the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, during the India vs Afghanistan T20I in Delhi, sparking widespread reaction among fans.

Messi, Haaland and Kane headline star-studded 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist

Messi, Haaland and Kane headline star-studded 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Lionel Messi has made the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist after another prolific season, while five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo was omitted despite helping Al-Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title.

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt expressed amusement rather than frustration upon learning that a robot in China had broken his 100-metres world record by almost a second, stating, 'It just made me smile.'

Richie Mehta: 'It Was Important That We Don't Sexualise Phoolan'

Richie Mehta: 'It Was Important That We Don't Sexualise Phoolan'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'It's a harrowing book because in the first 100 pages, you have the first-person account of very young girl being abused. It's an important, crucial document from her point of view, but impossible to emotionally endure if one is to illustrate it on screen.'

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Kylian Mbappe has asserted his belief that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year, despite not securing any club or international silverware. The French forward highlighted his individual performances, including becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, and praised new France coach Zinedine Zidane.

With Saudi attacked, is Pakistan ready to join Gulf War?

With Saudi attacked, is Pakistan ready to join Gulf War?

Rediff.com7 days ago

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has reiterated the nation's unwavering commitment to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, underscoring its role in regional security following an attempted drone attack near the holy city of Mecca. The pact, signed by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia, establishes a framework for collective deterrence against armed attacks.

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday was celebrated with extensive programmes in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency. Events included special prayers by 76 young priests, a milk 'abhishek' of the Ganga, and a significant 'Seva Sankalp' motorcycle journey from Varanasi to Vadnagar, Modi's birthplace, involving 500 participants. Several prominent political figures, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, participated in the celebrations, offering prayers for Modi's health and India's progress.

India Eyes Historic Double Gold Defence At Chess Olympiad

India Eyes Historic Double Gold Defence At Chess Olympiad

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India's men's and women's chess teams are set to defend their respective Chess Olympiad titles, with strong lineups featuring world champion D Gukesh and in-form R Praggnanandhaa for the men, and Koneru Humpy leading the top-seeded women's squad.

Varun Chakaravarthy ruled out of Afghanistan T20 series, doubtful for Asian Games

Varun Chakaravarthy ruled out of Afghanistan T20 series, doubtful for Asian Games

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

India spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been ruled out of the T20 series against Afghanistan due to a fresh injury, casting significant doubt on his participation in the upcoming Asian Games. This comes shortly after his recovery from a previous hamstring injury, raising concerns about player injury management.

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Seven former Australian cricket captains, including Greg Chappell and Steve Waugh, have urged Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to address the welfare of imprisoned former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Their appeal focuses on humanitarian treatment and due process, not the legal or political aspects of his case, citing concerns about his deteriorating health.

16-year-old Dowman steals Arsenal's League Cup show

16-year-old Dowman steals Arsenal's League Cup show

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Arsenal's 16-year-old Max Dowman scored twice in a 4-2 League Cup victory over Ipswich Town, continuing their perfect season start. Liverpool also advanced to the fourth round, beating Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 at Anfield. Other Premier League teams Fulham and Brentford also secured wins, while third-tier Peterborough progressed via a penalty shootout.