News for 'Venu'

Historic first as Nairobi wins 2029 World Athletics bid

Historic first as Nairobi wins 2029 World Athletics bid

Rediff.com5 days ago

Nairobi, Kenya, has been selected to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time an African city will stage the prestigious event. World Athletics also announced Munich as the host for the 2031 championships. This decision follows Nairobi's previous unsuccessful bid for 2025 and highlights Kenya's strong connection to athletics.

'Too loud': Swiatek speaks out on US Open noise

'Too loud': Swiatek speaks out on US Open noise

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Iga Swiatek expressed her preference for the more intimate Grandstand court over the boisterous Arthur Ashe Stadium at the US Open. Other players like Alexander Zverev, Jakub Mensik, and Flavio Cobolli also commented on the challenging noise levels and crowd interactions at Flushing Meadows, highlighting the unique atmosphere compared to other tour events.

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

Rediff.com7 minutes ago

The Asian Games' mixed martial arts competition features modified rules, including traditional uniforms and shin guards, to make the sport more palatable for potential Olympic inclusion. While intense, this version differs significantly from UFC fights. The sport faces challenges, including rival governing bodies vying for Olympic recognition, but FIMMA hopes the current format will appeal to IOC officials.

Snubbed Rishabh Pant to lead Rest of India in Irani Cup

Snubbed Rishabh Pant to lead Rest of India in Irani Cup

Rediff.com4 days ago

Rishabh Pant, recently excluded from India's white-ball squad, has been appointed captain of the Rest of India team for the upcoming Irani Cup match against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir.

India Vs Panama Football Friendly Date Changed Due To Marathon

India Vs Panama Football Friendly Date Changed Due To Marathon

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India's international football friendly against Panama in Bengaluru has been advanced by a day to September 25 due to the Bengaluru Marathon. The match at Sree Kanteerava Stadium will be a significant test for the Blue Tigers against a 2026 World Cup participant, preceding other high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay.

Last-minute change: Pawan replaces Toor as Asian Games flag-bearer

Last-minute change: Pawan replaces Toor as Asian Games flag-bearer

Rediff.com2 days ago

Kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has replaced shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's male flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony due to Toor's ceremonial kit not being available. Toor was unable to collect his kit in time to attend the event, leading to the last-minute change.

BCCI Secretary Saikia Dismisses Rumours Over Rohit Sharma's Future

BCCI Secretary Saikia Dismisses Rumours Over Rohit Sharma's Future

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addressed recent speculations regarding Rohit Sharma's future, chief selector Ajit Agarkar's contract extension, and VVS Laxman's potential appointment as director of cricket, dismissing all rumours after a review meeting.

Kabaddi Star Pawan Sehrawat Steps In As Asian Games Flag-Bearer

Kabaddi Star Pawan Sehrawat Steps In As Asian Games Flag-Bearer

Rediff.com2 days ago

Seasoned kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has been named India's male flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony, replacing shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor. Toor was unable to attend due to not receiving his ceremonial kit in time, a logistical issue stemming from the athletics team's acclimatisation camp near Tokyo.

Punch Boxing Set For 14th Edition In November, Boosting Indian Fighters

Punch Boxing Set For 14th Edition In November, Boosting Indian Fighters

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Professional Punch Boxing is set to host its 14th edition in November, aiming to provide Indian fighters with competitive bouts and international exposure. The series, launched in 2017 and sanctioned by the Indian Boxing Council, has previously featured boxers from over 12 countries, offering a platform for domestic talent to build their careers.

Delhi on high alert for BRICS meet, traffic curbs on key roads

Delhi on high alert for BRICS meet, traffic curbs on key roads

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

New Delhi is under a thick blanket of security as it hosts top world leaders for the BRICS Summit. Extensive security measures, including thousands of personnel and CCTV cameras, are in place. Commuters can expect temporary traffic restrictions and diversions due to VVIP movements, though officials aim to minimise public inconvenience.

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Central Delhi has undergone a significant beautification drive, including extensive lighting, floral displays, and BRICS-themed signages, in preparation for the upcoming BRICS Leaders' Summit. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and other civic bodies have focused on sprucing up key routes, hotels, and the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, to welcome delegates and visitors.

BRICS Summit: Security In Place, Delhi Spruced Up

BRICS Summit: Security In Place, Delhi Spruced Up

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

New Delhi is gearing up to host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam on September 12-13, with extensive preparations underway across key venues, roads, hotels and security zones.

HAL hands over LCA Tejas, HTT-40 trainer aircraft to IAF; Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans

HAL hands over LCA Tejas, HTT-40 trainer aircraft to IAF; Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans

Rediff.com2 days ago

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas FOC twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, and Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks a crucial step in India's journey towards self-reliance in the aerospace sector, showcasing HAL's capabilities across military, civil rotary-wing, and pilot training aviation.

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Rediff.com1 hour ago

'On a plain reading of Article 121, it can be said that the chairman's casting vote can be invoked in either of these cases.'

HAL Delivers Advanced Trainers And Helicopters To IAF And Pawan Hans

HAL Delivers Advanced Trainers And Helicopters To IAF And Pawan Hans

Rediff.com2 days ago

State-run defence major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas Final Operational Clearance twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, along with Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks a crucial step in India's journey towards self-reliance in the aerospace sector, showcasing HAL's diverse capabilities in military, civil, and training aviation.

BCCI office-bearers authorised to take call on Ajit Agarkar's future

BCCI office-bearers "authorised" to take call on Ajit Agarkar's future

Rediff.com2 days ago

The BCCI's member units have authorised office-bearers to make a decision regarding the extension of chief selector Ajit Agarkar's contract, which is set to expire early next month, and to fill vacancies in the junior selection committee.

'Never felt prouder as an Indian': Ravi Shastri hails Modi

'Never felt prouder as an Indian': Ravi Shastri hails Modi

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Ravi Shastri lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking a leading role in international diplomacy during the ongoing BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Why Japan Scrapped Athletes' Village For Asian Games 2026 In Nagoya

Why Japan Scrapped Athletes' Village For Asian Games 2026 In Nagoya

Rediff.com2 days ago

Organisers of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games have defended their decision to forgo an Athletes' Village, opting instead for a mix of hotels, container huts, and a cruise ship, despite complaints about cramped conditions and shared rooms.

India-Afghanistan cricketing bond celebrated at 'Koh-E-Zafar'

India-Afghanistan cricketing bond celebrated at 'Koh-E-Zafar'

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Afghanistan Cricket Board hosted 'Koh-E-Zafar' in New Delhi to celebrate the strong cricketing friendship between India and Afghanistan.

Team India's Hilarious Reactions to Their 1980s Avatars!

Team India's Hilarious Reactions to Their 1980s Avatars!

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Indian cricketers were surprised with AI-generated 1980s avatars of themselves during a photo session before the Afghanistan T20I series, leading to humorous reactions from players like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Axar Patel, and Ishan Kishan.

Mumbai's Oldest, Richest Ganpati Pandals

Mumbai's Oldest, Richest Ganpati Pandals

Rediff.com2 days ago

A look at some of the oldest, richest and famous Ganesh pandals in Mumbai.

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Rediff.com2 days ago

The flag-hoisting ceremony for the Asian Games, involving India and five other contingents, was significantly delayed due to "miscommunication" between the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the local organising committee (ANAGOC). The disruption, which lasted over an hour, initially caused confusion and speculation about political issues, but organisers later clarified it was a communication breakdown, adding to existing organisational challenges for the event.

Shammi Kapoor Comes Alive On Kashmir's Dal Lake

Shammi Kapoor Comes Alive On Kashmir's Dal Lake

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Srinagar's picturesque Dal Lake recently transformed into a unique open-air floating cinema for the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir 2026, captivating audiences with Bollywood classics against a stunning natural backdrop.

Bobby Sabu Smashes 39-Year-Old Record

Bobby Sabu Smashes 39-Year-Old Record

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Kerala Police officer Bobby Sabu has broken a 39-year-old triple jump record at the 47th Kerala Police State Athletics Meet with a 15.93-metre effort. This achievement follows his recent gold medal win at the All India Police Duty Meet, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career.

708 Runs, 10 Wickets: Duleep Trophy Final Yawn!

708 Runs, 10 Wickets: Duleep Trophy Final Yawn!

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

What should have been a top-draw domestic red-ball clash to kick off the new season featuring some of India's Test stars has quickly turned into a lopsided contest, courtesy of a lifeless pitch heavily loaded in favour of the batters.

Japan builds for cricket's future as India's historic T20I brings spotlight to Sano

Japan builds for cricket's future as India's historic T20I brings spotlight to Sano

Rediff.com20 hours ago

The Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is hosting its historic maiden T20I against reigning world champions India, an event its COO Alan Curr believes will significantly boost cricket's profile and aid its global recognition efforts. The match, taking place at the upgraded Sano International Cricket Ground, is seen as a crucial step towards attracting more established cricketing nations and fostering grassroots growth, despite challenges like weather and integrating cricket into the national sports scene.

Gill-Gambhir Make Big Request Ahead Of 2027 World Cup

Gill-Gambhir Make Big Request Ahead Of 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India is reportedly exploring an ODI series in South Africa before the 2027 World Cup, a move initiated by the team management to gain crucial exposure to conditions and fine-tune preparations for the tournament.

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Sports Ministry has formed a five-member committee to address the financial viability and sustainability of the Hockey India League (HIL). Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with Hockey India officials and franchise representatives, directing them to develop a comprehensive plan for the league's revival, which has faced challenges since its return last year.

Groundsman who clashed with Gautam Gambhir put on leave after ECB row

Groundsman who clashed with Gautam Gambhir put on leave after ECB row

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Surrey's head groundsman Lee Fortis has been put on leave following an alleged heated confrontation with an ECB employee at The Oval, an incident that occurred a day before a Hundred fixture.

Sports Ministry Steps In To Revive Hockey India League

Sports Ministry Steps In To Revive Hockey India League

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Sports Ministry, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has formed a five-member committee to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the financial viability and sustainability of the cash-strapped Hockey India League (HIL). This initiative follows concerns about the league's long-term future, which was revived last year after a seven-year hiatus. The committee will include representatives from Hockey India, franchises, and the Sports Ministry, tasked with presenting a report on governance, financial models, and league structure.

As accommodation concerns grow, Asian Games cricket teams given freedom to choose hotels

As accommodation concerns grow, Asian Games cricket teams given freedom to choose hotels

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Japan Cricket Association CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji has addressed concerns raised by leading cricketing nations regarding accommodation and facilities for the upcoming Asian Games. Miyaji clarified that hotel stays are offered, teams can make their own arrangements, and temporary yet comfortable facilities have been prepared for players, including washrooms and dressing rooms, despite tight timelines and resource limitations.

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

From Kottayam Kunjachan to Unda, here are 10 Mammootty films that prove the megastar can be every bit as entertaining as he is intense.

BRICS Summit: Inside The Vegetarian Dinner Menu

BRICS Summit: Inside The Vegetarian Dinner Menu

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a gala dinner for BRICS Summit leaders and delegates at Bharat Mandapam. The menu featured a range of Indian delicacies, including starters like 'khandvi mille' and 'khumb galouti', main courses such as 'paneer lababdar' and 'gucchi marmik', and desserts like 'shahtoot phirni'. The dinner was accompanied by a cultural performance.

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India's participation in the 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan will be guided by the sports ministry's policy, which permits Indian athletes to compete in events with Pakistani participants and vice-versa. Separately, the MEA also commented on the ongoing legal proceedings for seven foreign nationals, including a US citizen and six Ukrainians, who were recently chargesheeted by the NIA for illegal entry and movement, though not under UAPA at this stage.

India's Aerospace Future Takes Flight With HAL Deliveries

India's Aerospace Future Takes Flight With HAL Deliveries

Rediff.com2 days ago

State-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas FOC twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, and Dhruv Next Generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, underscores India's progress towards self-reliance in aerospace, strengthening both military and civil aviation capabilities with indigenous platforms.

Government interference costs Sri Lanka Women's Champions Trophy hosting

Government interference costs Sri Lanka Women's Champions Trophy hosting

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has withdrawn Sri Lanka's hosting rights for the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in 2027, citing government interference in Sri Lanka Cricket's administration. This decision, stemming from the presence of a government-appointed Transformation Committee, could also jeopardise the Sri Lankan women's team's participation and will have financial implications for the board.

Zaheer Khan's big new role with Yuvraj Singh revealed

Zaheer Khan's big new role with Yuvraj Singh revealed

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has joined the ownership group of Vancouver Anchors, a franchise in the Canada Super 60 league, reuniting with his former teammate Yuvraj Singh. Khan brings his extensive international cricket experience to the league, which features men's and women's competitions and aims to promote global cricket growth.

Xi skips BRICS gala dinner hosted by Modi

Xi skips BRICS gala dinner hosted by Modi

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping notably skipped a gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for BRICS leaders and other dignitaries, with sources suggesting he returned to his hotel to rest. Meanwhile, a grand cultural performance, 'BRICS Symphony - One Rhythm, Many Cultures', featuring artistes from member countries, was a highlight of the evening.

Asian Games: Sharath Kamal Addresses Accommodation Concerns, Predicts TT Medals

Asian Games: Sharath Kamal Addresses Accommodation Concerns, Predicts TT Medals

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's deputy chef-de-mission, A Sharath Kamal, has downplayed concerns regarding the unique container room and cruise ship accommodation for athletes at the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. He stated that Indian athletes have been prepared for these arrangements through mock setups at SAI centres. Kamal also expressed confidence in India's table tennis team, predicting at least one medal, specifically highlighting the men's doubles and mixed doubles pairs.

40 Years Since The Chennai Tied Test!

40 Years Since The Chennai Tied Test!

Rediff.com2 days ago

The only previous tie had occurred at Brisbane back in December 1960 between Australia and the West Indies. In the 40 years since the Madras Test, there have been 1,583 Test matches. But there has never again been a tie.