Gudi Padwa, marking the Marathi New Year, will be celebrated on March 19, 2026. The festival falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada and symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity. People raise a decorated Gudi outside their homes, perform prayers, take ritual baths, and prepare traditional foods. The day is considered highly auspicious for starting new ventures.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar criticised the signing of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed by Sunrisers Leeds, warning it could spark a boycott. Gavaskar argued that money paid to Pakistani players may indirectly benefit Pakistan through taxes, raising moral concerns amid India-Pakistan tensions and igniting debate over Indian-owned teams employing Pakistani cricketers.
The government of Telangana plans to issue Digital Health Cards to all citizens by creating a comprehensive digital medical profile. The pilot project will begin in Sangareddy. The cards will store patients’ medical histories from government hospitals and health centres, helping doctors provide quicker treatment and enabling easier referrals to specialised hospitals.
Air-conditioner servicing costs in India vary depending on the type of work. Basic cleaning usually costs about ₹500–₹1,000, while deep chemical cleaning may reach ₹1,500–₹2,500. Gas refilling typically ranges from ₹2,500–₹4,000, and major repairs can cost more depending on parts. Experts advise comparing prices to prevent overcharging.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced its first list of 47 candidates for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, including prominent leaders like Rajeev Chandrasekhar and K Surendran. The move signals the party’s strategy to expand its presence in a state where it has historically had limited success. The polls are scheduled for April 9, 2026.
Hyderabad’s love for large-format cinemas continues, with Dolby Cinema arriving at Allu Cinemas. Now, buzz around IMAX has intensified after IMAX India VP Preetham Daniel shared a Hyderabad photo on “X,” captioned “Love this city and the food!” Cinephiles are excited, speculating that an official IMAX announcement for the city may be imminent.
Massive numbers of worshippers gathered at the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah on the 27th night of Ramzan, believed to be Laylat Al‑Qadr, one of the most sacred nights in Islam. Pilgrims engaged in prayers and supplications throughout the night, while Saudi authorities managed crowds and provided services to support devotees.
The Centre told Parliament that about 69 lakh pensioners receive benefits under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), while only 49,802 pensioners are enrolled under the National Pension System (NPS), showing a large disparity between the two systems. About 50.14 lakh central government employees are currently in service.
The Gujarat High Court disqualified ex-cricketer Kiran More and three others from Baroda Cricket Association elections, citing nine-year tenure limits and mandatory cooling-off periods. The court set aside the election officer’s acceptance of their nominations, allowed the election to proceed, and granted the respondents two weeks to appeal the order.
Priced at about ₹17.23 lakh (ex‑showroom), the Ducati Desmo450 MX costs as much as many SUVs in India. With that budget, buyers might choose practical four‑wheelers instead. Top alternatives include the Tata Sierra, Mahindra Thar Roxx, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and other well‑known cars, offering daily usability and family‑friendly features.
A software engineer, Madhushree Joshi, shared that living alone in Goa costs her about ₹82,000 monthly, including ₹26,000 rent, ₹25,000 car EMI, and around ₹31,000 for food, petrol, utilities, gym and misc expenses. She noted that PR packages and restaurant collaborations help reduce some personal costs. Many online commenters debated whether this amount is high.
Young actor Kiran Abbavaram is set to make his directorial debut while also playing the lead, produced by Sudhakar Chaganti under Joy Films, with music by Bheems Ceciroleo. While his past films have built momentum, balancing acting and directing is challenging. Industry views are split on whether this bold step reflects confidence or a risky […]
Five students at a school in Jagtial, Telangana were temporarily suspended and barred from entry for wearing a Hanuman mala, sparking protests and tension outside the school. Police intervened, and the district education officer later reviewed the case, finding no dress‑code violation. The suspensions were revoked after the school received a show‑cause notice.
The Rajya Sabha bid farewell to former CJI Ranjan Gogoi, who retired after a six-year term. Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan praised Gogoi’s legal acumen, insightful interventions, and commitment to public interest. Nominated to the Upper House in 2020, Gogoi was wished continued service to the nation with the same dedication, integrity, and spirit.
Thousands joined an NSF rally in Kohima opposing the Centre’s directive mandating ‘Vande Mataram’ at official functions and schools. Protesters cited threats to secularism, religious freedom, and Naga cultural identity, submitting a memorandum to President Murmu. Leaders urged withdrawal of the order and dialogue with Naga representatives before enforcement.