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LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures

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LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures


LPG supply crunch hit restaurants threatening closures

Mumbai: For restaurants across the country, it is not business as usual–a severe crunch of LPG supplies on the back of the West Asia war is posing a threat of temporary closures with many firms having moved to induction cookers to stay afloat and some of them also restricting menu choices. Smaller establishments are already in dire straits. In Chennai, for instance, several small eateries have shut shops, Ravi Muthukrishnan, chairman, Vasanta Bhavan Hotels and president, Channel Hotels Association told TOI. From Chinese to biryani, a lot of items require slow cooking which means more usage of gas–agencies which supply LPG cylinders to restaurants have said that they do not have enough stock of commercial gas cylinders. “LPG cylinders have not been available since the past two days,” said Muthukrishnan. Anjan Chatterjee, founder of Speciality Restaurants which owns brands such as Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta said that Bengaluru and Chennai have been the most impacted markets for the company with certain parts of Delhi and Kolkata also facing supply disruption. For now, the firm is somehow making do with inductions and rice cookers but if the supplies don’t become adequately available in a day or two, restaurants will have to be shut, said Chatterjee. “About 70% of my food is Chinese. For that, we need high pressure gas burners. No gas, no cooking,” Chatterjee said. Companies fear that dwindling business will put pressure on cash flows at a time when final advance tax payments and liquor license renewals are due. “We are assessing all possible options to keep the business floating. Our rents won’t be waived off, salaries, final advance tax payments and liquor license renewals need to be done. Restaurants operate on the basis of monthly cash flows,” said Pawan Shahri, co-founder at Mumbai-based Chrome Asia Hospitality which owns brands such as Gigi and Donna Deli. Debaditya Chaudhury, MD at Chowman said that its restaurants in Mumbai and Bengaluru have started facing supply challenges. This is a concern for restaurant operations which rely heavily on commercial LPG for daily kitchen functioning, said Chaudhury, adding that the firm will look at restricting certain menu items if the situation further escalates. Restaurateur Pranav Rungta which runs outlets in Mumbai said that his Colaba eatery Otoki has stopped non-essential cooking through LPG cylinders. Bulk rice cooking and meals for staff have all moved to electric cookers, said Rungta. “The available commercial LPG cylinders are first being provided to establishments such as schools and hospitals,” said Rudra Pratap, COO at Ahuja Residences which operates boutique business hotels across cities which is reducing menu choices. “The biggest relief is that the major wedding season is behind us,” said Pratap.


‘This isn’t right’: Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India | Cricket News

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‘This isn’t right’: Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India | Cricket News


'This isn’t right': Michael Vaughan fumes as South Africa, West Indies remain stuck in India
Michael Vaughan (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

NEW DELHI: After their early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the West Indies national cricket team and South Africa national cricket team have been stuck in Kolkata for more than a week, sparking criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan.Vaughan questioned why England national cricket team managed to return home quickly while the other teams remain stranded. England were knocked out on March 5 but reportedly flew home within 36 hours. Meanwhile, West Indies were eliminated on March 1 and South Africa on March 4, yet both squads were still waiting in India days later.

Suryakumar Yadav receives grand homecoming after India’s T20 World Cup win

Frustrated by the situation, Vaughan wrote, “Just to let you all know that the West Indies got knocked out of the World Cup on March 1st .. it’s now March 9th .. they are still stranded in Kolkata .. SA are in the same position .. !!!!!!!!!!!! This isn’t right … England got on a charter 36 hrs after being knocked out .. as should be the case for all teams ..”The issue has also been raised by players such as Quinton de Kock, David Miller, and West Indies coach Daren Sammy, who have expressed concerns about the delay.However, tournament organisers say the problem is not favoritism but travel restrictions. According to the International Cricket Council and Cricket West Indies, the delay is linked to airspace restrictions caused by rising tensions in the Middle East involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Several flight corridors across the Gulf region have been partially closed for safety.Flights heading to the UK can avoid the most affected zones by taking northern routes, which likely helped England return sooner. But routes to the Caribbean and South Africa pass closer to restricted Gulf airspace, leading to cancellations and permit issues. A charter flight planned earlier was reportedly cancelled due to missing overflight approvals.


Syrian ex-colonel in court on crimes against humanity charge

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Syrian ex-colonel in court on crimes against humanity charge



Salem Michel Al-Salem, accused of crimes committed in Syria in 2011 and 2012, has been named for the first time.


Varun Dhawan to take acting break after Border 2 success, wants to spend time with daughter Lara: Report

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Varun Dhawan to take acting break after Border 2 success, wants to spend time with daughter Lara: Report


After enjoying the success of Border 2, where he played Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, Varun Dhawan is reportedly planning to take a break from acting after the release and success of Border 2, choosing to prioritise family time with his daughter, Lara.

Varun Dhawan will next romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan, releasing on June 12
Varun Dhawan will next romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan, releasing on June 12

Varun Dhawan to take a break from acting

Varun was recently seen in the much-talked-about sequel to the 1997 classic Border. The film also stars Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty. Following the release of the trailer and songs, the actor initially faced heavy backlash on social media, with several users criticising his smile and questioning whether he was suited for the intense role. However, after the film hit theatres on January 23, Varun managed to win over audiences with his performance as Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, PVC, earning praise despite the earlier criticism.

According to a report by Filmfare, the actor is now considering stepping away from work for a while to focus on family life. “Varun Dhawan is taking a long break after the release of Border 2. He is keen on spending more time with his family, especially his daughter. He is eager to take the break to be with Lara,” a source told Filmfare.

Varun still has Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai lined up

Varun still has a film lined up for release. His upcoming romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai will see him sharing screen space with Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur. The film is directed by his father, David Dhawan. The film was initially scheduled to release on June 5 but has now been postponed to June 12 to avoid a box-office clash with Toxic A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups starring Yash, which is set to release on June 4.

Interestingly, the film will also feature a remixed version of the iconic song Hai Jawaani To Ishq Hona Hai, originally from Biwi No 1. The original track starred Salman Khan, Sushmita Sen, Karisma Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Tabu, and was sung by Shankar Mahadevan with Hema Sardesai.

About Border 2’s success

Border 2 is a large-scale war drama directed by Anurag Singh and serves as the sequel to the 1997 cult classic Border. The film follows a group of Indian soldiers posted at the border during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, highlighting their bravery, sacrifices and emotional struggles as they defend the nation during intense battle situations. Released on January 23, 2026, during the Republic Day weekend, the film became a major box-office success, earning around ₹432 crore worldwide and ranking among the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2026 to date.


IPL 2026 calendar stalled by state polls, partial schedule soon: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia

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IPL 2026 calendar stalled by state polls, partial schedule soon: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia


BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the schedule for the upcoming Indian Premier League season will be announced within the next two to three days. He explained that the board is waiting for clarity on election dates in a few states before locking in the fixtures. Saikia also noted that only a partial schedule will be released initially, covering the first 20 days of the tournament. The remaining fixtures will be announced later during the season once logistical and administrative details are fully sorted.

BCCI awaits election dates to announce IPL schedule for first 20 days: Devajit Saikia (Raju Shinde)
BCCI awaits election dates to announce IPL schedule for first 20 days: Devajit Saikia (Raju Shinde)

“We will announce the first 20-day schedule of IPL in 2 or 3 days after considering the election dates in a few states, and will announce the rest of the tournament schedule later,” Saikia said to ANI.

The announcement of the tournament’s schedule will be in two phases, with state assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala scheduled for the coming months.

Meanwhile, the 2026 season is expected to kick off on March 28.

RCB to play their home matches at M Chinnaswamy Stadium

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed their home venue split for the upcoming Indian Premier League season on Tuesday. Five matches will be staged at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, while the remaining two home fixtures are set to be held at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.

Also Read – ‘MS Dhoni told Suryakumar Yadav how to approach’: India skipper reveals key chat before T20 World Cup

The update puts to rest uncertainty over the franchise’s return to its primary base after last season’s tragic crowd crush that claimed 11 lives during celebrations of their maiden title. In the aftermath of the incident, the Bengaluru venue was kept out of major domestic tournaments, including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, amid safety reviews and administrative caution.

KSCA chief and former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has already declared that the M Chinnaswamy Stadium will also be hosting the opening match and final of the season.

“For me personally, it’s a huge achievement. Probably this is much bigger than my five-wicket haul against England at Lords,” Prasad said.

“It’s a pleasure to announce that they (RCB) have agreed to play five games in Bengaluru. The opening game and the opening ceremony will be staged here, and the play-off will also be played in Bangalore. The biggest news is that the final of IPL will also be played in Bangalore,” he added.


Divya Agarwal alleges she's receiving online abuse from Prince Narula fans: ‘Hate ki problem nahi, lekin rape threats?’

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Divya Agarwal alleges she's receiving online abuse from Prince Narula fans: ‘Hate ki problem nahi, lekin rape threats?’


Reality TV personality Divya Agarwal has alleged that she is receiving rape threats online following her public fallout with Prince Narula after their stint on the reality show The 50. Divya, who recently exited the show, is currently vacationing in the Maldives and addressed the issue through a series of Instagram stories. (Trigger Warning: This story contains discussions of sexual violence and rape threats.)

Divya Agarwal criticised Prince Narula for provoking his fans and highlighted the severity of the abusive messages targeting her on social media.
Divya Agarwal criticised Prince Narula for provoking his fans and highlighted the severity of the abusive messages targeting her on social media.

Divya talks alleges online rape threats by Prince Narula fans

Divya revealed that she has been receiving abusive messages from Prince Narula’s fans. “Recently I have been receiving a lot of hate from my ex-brother’s (Prince Narula) fans,” she wrote on social media. While she said she does not mind criticism, Divya claimed the messages have crossed a disturbing line.

“Hate ki problem nahi hai, but rape threats? (I don’t have a problem with hate, but rape threats?),” Divya said. She further shared the nature of the threats she has allegedly been receiving. According to her, some messages read: “Hamko pata hai tu kaha rehti hai…10 ladke le kar aayenge…rape karenge, video banayenge. You deserve all of that.” (We know where you live… we will come with 10 men… rape you and make a video. You deserve all of that),” she said.

Divya also indirectly called out Prince Narula, accusing a “so-called celebrity” of fuelling the online hate by reacting to episodes of the show. She claimed he watches the episodes and comments on them by saying, “Aaj ka episode bhot jyada funny tha.” (Today’s episode was very funny).

Calling him “self-obsessed,” Divya further alleged that he has been instigating fans against her. She also criticised celebrities who help others but later highlight it publicly, referring to the phrase “Maine paala hai (I took care of you).”

About the controversy

The controversy comes after Prince Narula recently posted a video criticising Divya’s performance on The 50. In the video, he claimed she performed only one task during her time in the house and said she returned to the show after watching several episodes and began believing that he was dominating the game.

Prince also mentioned that Divya once considered him a brother and claimed he had saved her during the game, but she later chose to align with another group. Towards the end of the video, he remarked, “Yaha bhi acha nahi khel payin aap (You couldn’t play well here either).”

About The 50

The 50 brings together 50 celebrity contestants in a strategically designed palace where survival depends on brains, alliances, and adaptability rather than on physical strength alone. The format, adapted from the French show Les Cinquante, places players under a game master known as The Lion, who sets unpredictable tasks and twists while contestants form teams, complete challenges and face eliminations without audience voting. Some famous contestants from The 50 include Prince Narula, Karan Patel, Mr Faisu, Urvashi Dholakia, and Nikki Tamboli. They represent a mix of reality TV veterans, social media stars, and popular actors competing in the show


From Rs 125 cr to Rs 131 cr: How much has BCCI rewarded Team India for recent ICC triumphs? | Cricket News

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From Rs 125 cr to Rs 131 cr: How much has BCCI rewarded Team India for recent ICC triumphs? | Cricket News


From Rs 125 cr to Rs 131 cr: How much has BCCI rewarded Team India for recent ICC triumphs?
Team India. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki)

NEW DELHI: After India’s historic win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a massive cash reward of Rs 131 crore for the entire squad and support staff. The prize money will be shared among the 15 players, coaching staff, and other support members who helped the team secure the title.

Suryakumar Yadav receives grand homecoming after India’s T20 World Cup win

According to a report from PTI, the players will receive the biggest share of the reward. Each of the 15 cricketers is expected to get Rs 6 crore, while the remaining Rs 41 crore will be divided among the coaching staff and support team, depending on their roles and hierarchy.The reward is slightly higher than the Rs 125 crore bonus given to the team led by Rohit Sharma after India’s T20 World Cup win in 2024, showing the board’s continued appreciation for major international victories.BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the team’s achievement and said, “The Board congratulates the players, support staff and selectors once again on this historic achievement and wishes them continued success in the future.”Before this, BCCI also announced Rs 58 crore for the winners of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Rs 51 crore for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 champions, and Rs 7.5 crore for ICC U19 World Cup-winning side. In the T20 World Cup, India secured the trophy after defeating New Zealand national cricket team by 96 runs in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The victory was especially significant because the team successfully defended their title, becoming the first side in tournament history to retain the T20 World Cup.The triumph also made India the first team to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup three times, strengthening its legacy as one of the most dominant teams in the shortest format of the game.


Hansal Mehta announces new films, including Ranveer Singh’s ‘Pralay’

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Hansal Mehta announces new films, including Ranveer Singh’s ‘Pralay’


Hansal Mehta announces new films, including ‘Porbandar’ and Ranveer Singh’s ‘Pralay’ - Reports
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and producer Sahil Saigal are unveiling an ambitious slate, featuring Ranveer Singh’s post-apocalyptic thriller ‘Pralay’ and Mehta’s own action film ‘Porbandar.’ The company is also backing Ajitpal Singh’s ‘Kehar Singh,’ a cannibalistic horror project titled ‘Mehfooz,’ and regional films, alongside a Hindi debut for Lijo Jose Pellissery with music by A.R. Rahman.

Hansal Mehta and producer Sahil Saigal are expanding their slate with a mix of big Hindi films, regional cinema, and series work. The company has now revealed several fresh titles, including Mehta’s own action film ‘Porbandar,’ Ajitpal Singh’s next feature ‘Kehar Singh,’ and the cannibalistic horror project ‘Mehfooz.’ It has also shared new details about ‘Pralay,’ the Ranveer Singh-led post-apocalyptic thriller that is now in active pre-production.

Hansal Mehta’s work slate update

According to Variety, the company, launched by Mehta and Saigal in January 2025, is moving ahead with a broad lineup across genres and languages. Among the biggest titles is ‘Pralay,’ directed by Jai Mehta and starring Ranveer Singh. The film is being co-produced with Singh’s banner. Hansal Mehta described its scale in clear terms, saying, “It’s the kind of film that India hasn’t made yet, the kind of film that India hasn’t seen before.” He also said an international crew has joined the project, with filming expected to begin later this year.

Ranveer Singh’s ‘Pralay’ and new films revealed

The new lineup also includes ‘Porbandar,’ which Hansal Mehta will direct himself. The film is named after the Gujarati coastal city linked to Mahatma Gandhi, but Mehta said the project takes a sharply different route. “On one side you have the Mahatma from Porbandar, and on the other side you have this actioner,” he said. A studio deal for the film is close to being finalized.Another new title is ‘Kehar Singh,’ directed by Ajitpal Singh of ‘Fire in the Mountains.’ The company described it as a spectacle film, though more details will come later. Then there is ‘Mehfooz,’ a cannibalistic horror project that has finished development and already has a studio attached, but is still looking for a director. Explaining the company’s method, Mehta said, “We invest money in developing the film, get it all ready before we pitch to a studio, and then get a director on board.”The company is also producing ‘Dilkashi’ with Amazon MGM Studios. Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, it marks his Hindi debut and features songs by A.R. Rahman. In regional cinema, the company is backing the Gujarati film ‘Sardar Asardar’ and the Punjabi independent feature ‘Hanere de Panchi.’ On the series side, it has co-produced Netflix’s ‘Family Business’ and is developing another show.


‘Main Hoon Na’, Rahul Bhatia says as he returns to IndiGo after CEO resignation| Business News

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‘Main Hoon Na’, Rahul Bhatia says as he returns to IndiGo after CEO resignation| Business News


Rahul Bhatia has returned to lead the day-to-day operations of an airline that he co-founded nearly two decades ago, amid a turbulence that “should never have taken place”.

Rahul Bhatia, co-founder and managing director of Interglobe Aviation (IndiGo). (HT)
Rahul Bhatia, co-founder and managing director of Interglobe Aviation (IndiGo). (HT)

“I step into my expanded role of managing the affairs of IndiGo with a deep sense of responsibility—not only to the company’s customers and its shareholders, but to every employee who powers this airline,” Bhatia wrote in an internal note to IndiGo employees after he took over as interim CEO of Interglobe Aviation Ltd. following the resignation of Pieter Elbers — effective immediately.

“What happened last December should never have taken place… Our customers didn’t deserve it and nor did all of you, especially the frontline employees who bore most of the brunt for no fault of theirs…,” he went on to say.

“I wish to place on record my indebtedness to all my colleagues who carried the company’s cross with grace and dignity, and ploughed through sleepless nights to restore IndiGo’s operational integrity. You are indeed the living spirit of IndiGo!”

Hindustan Times has seen a copy of this internal note.

IndiGo CEO resignation

Elbers, who took the helm of IndiGo in September 2022, has resigned as CEO of the company with immediate effect. Under him, India’s largest airline became a $10-billion enterprise, expanded its fleet to over 440 aircraft, and placed a historic order for 500 Airbus A320-family planes.

Until, it all came crashing down.

Despite his successes, Elbers’ tenure was marred by an operational meltdown in December 2025. The flight crisis was triggered by IndiGo’s struggle to implement new rules designed to prevent pilot fatigue.

Between December 3 and 5, IndiGo cancelled over 2,500 flights and delayed nearly 1,900 more, affecting over 300,000 passengers.

The DGCA imposed a record fine of ₹22.20 crore and issued show-cause notices directly to Elbers. While he initially survived calls for his resignation, the crisis significantly dented the airline’s reputation for punctuality.

Bhatia promised to fix the mess.

Rahul Bhatia returns to IndiGo

In the internal letter, Bhatia sought the support of IndiGo employees “to ensure that we regain our right of choice with our customers and earn the distinction of being the pride of India”.

“Let us stay focused and accountable, remain fiercely united and committed to the cause, and continue to do what we do best—offer affordable fares, and a courteous and hassle-free travel experience to our customers.

“I look forward to working with all of you, and I take this occasion to extend very best wishes to you and your respective families,” he said, with “Main Hoon Na” in his sign-off.

On Tuesday, IndiGo shares rose 3.46% to ₹4,382.45 apiece on the BSE even as the benchmark Sensex ended the day 0.82% higher at 78,205.98 points.


ENHYPEN announces first lineup change as founding member Heeseung exits the group

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ENHYPEN announces first lineup change as founding member Heeseung exits the group


K-pop group ENHYPEN is going through a major change, though not quite the one fans might fear. The group will continue its activities as a six-member act, but after founding member Heeseung announced his departure from the lineup.

ENHYPEN
ENHYPEN

The news was confirmed on March 10 by the group’s agency BELIFT LAB through a statement shared on ENHYPEN’s official platforms. According to the company, the decision followed long discussions about the group’s future and Heeseung’s personal artistic direction.

“Through in-depth discussions with each of the members about the future they envision and the direction of the team, it became clear that Heeseung has his own distinct musical vision,” the company said.

A new path for Heeseung

While stepping away from the group, Heeseung will remain signed to BELIFT LAB and is preparing to launch a solo career. The agency said the move was the result of extended conversations between the artist, the members and management. The announcement did not include details about upcoming group releases or tour plans.

Heeseung also addressed fans—known as ENGENE—shortly after the update, sharing a message of gratitude for both supporters and his fellow members.“Thanks to the members with whom I shared countless emotions, and to ENGENE, who always filled every empty space with their support, I was able to take step after step toward a dream that once felt out of reach,” he wrote. “I am working hard on an album so I can meet you all again soon.”

From survival show to global fandom

Heeseung first rose to prominence after appearing on the survival audition program I-LAND. He later debuted with ENHYPEN in November 2020 with the group’s first project, Border: Day One. Since then, the group has built a strong international following through multiple music releases and global tours.

Heeseung’s exit marks the first lineup change for ENHYPEN since its debut. According to the agency, the singer is currently working on his solo album, though further details about the project have not yet been revealed.

For now, the group moves forward with six members—while one of its founding voices prepares to begin a new musical chapter.