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‘Delete it immediately’: Jana Nayagan production house issues strict warning after film leak, initiates investigation

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‘Delete it immediately’: Jana Nayagan production house issues strict warning after film leak, initiates investigation


Tamil superstar Vijay’s final film as an actor, Jana Nayagan, has been leaked online ahead of its theatrical release, sending shockwaves across the industry. The film was set for release in Janaury 9 but did not receive CBFC clearance and has been in limbo for three months. The makers of the film, KVN Productions, have now issued an official statement on the issue, warning anyone who shares, downloads or forwards the film. (Also read: Jana Nayagan leak: Chiranjeevi condemns piracy, Suriya calls it ‘unforgivable’ and requests not to share Vijay’s film)

Jana Nayagan was initially set to release in theatres on January 9.
Jana Nayagan was initially set to release in theatres on January 9.

Official statement from KVN Productions

The statement began, “We, KVN Productions, LLP, are the producers and exclusive copyright owners of the cinematograph film, Jana Nayagan. It has come to our notice that certain scenes and clips from the said film and in some cases, most of the film have been illegally accessed, copied, and circulated by unidentified persons, posing a serious threat of digital piracy.”

It continued, “We hereby notify that downloading, viewing, storing, forwarding, sharing, uploading, or circulating the leaked content through platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, websites, torrents, or any other medium is a criminal offence and violates copyright laws. Every digital action is traceable, and we have already initiated necessary investigations, including forensic investigations, and complaints against persons involved and are actively identifying all others in the chain of circulation. Strict civil and criminal proceedings will be pursued against every offender without exception.”

“The public is hereby strictly advised not to engage in any manner with the leaked content. Any person found involved shall face immediate legal action at their own risk as to consequences. If you receive such content, do not open, store or forward it. Delete it immediately,” concluded the statement.

The leak, which comes just before Vijay’s entry into politics with the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, has rattled the Tamil film industry. Several stars from the film industry, from Chiranjeevi to Sivakarthikeyan, Suriya to GV Prakash Kumar, Khushbu Sundar to Karthi have come out in support of Vijay and the makers of the film, and condemned the act of piracy.

About the film

Directed by H Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions, Jana Nayagan also stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol and Mamitha Baiju, alongside Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Narain and Priyamani. Billed as Vijay’s final film before he takes the political plunge, the political thriller was slated to release in January 9 but had to be postponed after the CBFC failed to certify it in time.


IPL 2026: Riyan Parag wins toss; RR elect to bowl first against RCB

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IPL 2026: Riyan Parag wins toss; RR elect to bowl first against RCB



IPL 2026: Riyan Parag wins toss; RR elect to bowl first against RCB

Rajasthan Royals win the toss and elect to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The two teams are facing off in Guwahati and are still unbeaten this season.
Rajasthan Royals defeated the Mumbai Indians in a rain-curtailed match in Guwahati last time, while RCB defeated CSK at Bengaluru.

After winning the toss, Riyan Parag was happy to bowl first and chase RCB`s target.

“We`re going to be bowling. It was supposed to be a dry wicket, but it has been raining for the last couple of days and it rained a bit today as well. So there`s going to be a little moisture. We`re trying to extract it, but it seems like a really good wicket. Feels great. I think we`ve been very clinical before the start of the tournament. My message to the team was that we want to be a really pure team that plays really strategic cricket, really smart cricket. So hopefully we keep on assessing and adapting as we have been in the first three games and hopefully come up with really good points. Tushar takes a rest and Brijesh comes in. I think it`s a fresh start. I told them when we won against Mumbai, as soon as the sun came up, it was past. And we need to forget about that. That`s what Sanga said before we left the hotel as well. All three games are in the past. Today we`ve got to perform. If we don`t, we lose two points and we don`t want to do that. I mean, as long as they keep on going, I`m happy. I`m happy with this batting. I`m happy with this whole. So yeah, hopefully they keep on going.” Riyan Parag said.

Rajat Patidar admitted that he wanted to bowl first too but was happy to bat first on a good-looking wicket.

“This is our first away game. Thanks to everyone. I think you are making us feel that it`s already our home ground. So we all love you. Unfortunately, Duffy misses out in this game. Josh in the place of Duffy. Duffy also bowled brilliantly in the last game. But everyone knows Josh is an experienced player, a specialist. But I think his presence will definitely put us in a good frame of mind.” Rajat Patidar said.

Confirmed Playing XI for both teams:

Rajasthan Royals (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel(w), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Josh Hazlewood


'Kantara' row: Ranveer to file new apology after complainant not happy with affidavit

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'Kantara' row: Ranveer to file new apology after complainant not happy with affidavit


'Kantara' mimicry row: Ranveer Singh to file new apology, visit Chamundi temple after complainant says affidavit doesn't depict genuine remorse

Ranveer Singh may be enjoying the success of his latest film ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, but the controversy around his mimicry of Rishab Shetty has taken a fresh legal turn. As a case was filed against him, the actor informed the Karnataka High Court that he is ready to submit an apology affidavit over the incident involving the depiction of Chamundi Devi. After the affidavit was submitted, the complainant, Prashanth Methal, argued that the apology lacked sincerity and pointed out that Rishab had already signalled Ranveer to stop during the event. According to Bar and Bench, Senior Advocate Sajan Poovayya who is representing Ranveer told Justice M Nagaprasanna that a new affidavit would be filed. Poovayya agreed to consult with Methal to refine the wording of the affidavit and submit a revised version before the court. The actor has expressed regret over his actions, stating that he did not realise at the time that his remarks could hurt religious sentiments.

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Ranveer Singh Apologises For ‘Kantara’ Mimicry After Backlash!

Reading from the existing affidavit, Poovayya said, “I have filed an affidavit of apology. And I have undertaken in that affidavit that I will visit the temple as well. (The affidavit states) on the date of the incident, even for a moment, I did not realise I offended the worshippers of the Daiva. I also want to clarify, I was raised in a Sindhi household in Mumbai and I was not aware of the sensitivities. I, through this affidavit, once again convey my deepest regret, and unconditional apology. I will be visiting the temple of the deity in due course to offer my prayers and express my devotion.”Justice Nagaprasanna acknowledged the submissions and adjourned the matter to April 23. The controversy dates back to November 28 last year during the International Film Festival of India, where Ranveer, while praising Rishab’s performance in ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’, mimicked him on stage. Despite Rishab requesting him to stop, Ranveer repeated the act, including while greeting and hugging him.Ranveer had earlier issued a public apology, stating, “My intention was to highlight Rishabh’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene in the way that he did, for which he has my utmost admiration. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”


German transgender far-right extremist arrested in Czech Republic

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German transgender far-right extremist arrested in Czech Republic



German media reports say Marla-Svenja Liebich used to be a member of a neo-Nazi group called Blood and Honour.


Maatrubhumi actor Chitrangda Singh`s X account gets hacked

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Maatrubhumi actor Chitrangda Singh`s X account gets hacked



Maatrubhumi actor Chitrangda Singh`s X account gets hacked

Actress Chitrangda Singh, who will soon be seen sharing screen with Salman Khan in the much-awaited war drama Maatrubhumi, on Friday, informed her fans that her official account on X (formerly Twitter) has been hacked. The actress also urged fans to ignore any activity or messages from the hacked account. 

Chitrangda Singh reveals her Twitter account is hacked

The Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders actress also revealed that they are currently in the process of retrieving her account. Until then, she requested the fans and netizens to ignore any recent activity or messages from her handle.

Taking to her Instagram Stories on Friday evening, Chitrangda Singh wrote, “Hi everyone, my account on Twitter has been hacked. We are in the process of retrieving the same. Please ignore any recent activity or messages from it until it`s resolved. Thank you (sic).”

Chitrangda Singh`s work front

Talking about her professional commitments, Chitrangda Singh was last seen in the crime thriller series, Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders. Next, she will be seen sharing screen space with Salman Khan in Maatrubhumi, which was previously called Battle of Galwan.

Earlier, talking about being a part of the much-awaited drama, Maatrubhumi, she termed the experience as “truly special”. Chitrangdha Singh even took to her official Instagram handle and penned a note expressing her gratitude for being a part of the war drama

“Posted withregram skfilmsofficial Simplicity and Elegance personified… Welcoming chitrangda to the Battle Of Galwan team. Thank you so much for making me part of this.. it is truly special! I look forward to working with the whole team, (sic)” she went on to write on the photo-sharing app.

Made under the direction of Apoorva Lakhia, Maatrubhumi is a cinematic adaptation of the real-life events of June 15, 2020, when our Indian soldiers clashed with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley. The drama will reportedly share the tale of Colonel Santosh Babu (played by Salman Khan) and the 16 Bihar Regiment, who were tasked with enforcing a disengagement agreement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The core cast of the movie also includes Abhilash Chaudhary and Ankur Bhatia in prominent roles, along with others.

(With inputs from IANS)


RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood returns to playing XI amid Guwahati rain, who is missing? | Cricket News

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RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood returns to playing XI amid Guwahati rain, who is missing? | Cricket News


RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood returns to playing XI amid Guwahati rain, who is missing?
Josh Hazlewood (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood’s return to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru playing XI after an injury lay-off comes as a major boost to their pace attack.Rain played a part ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati, delaying the toss as covers came on due to a passing drizzle. However, conditions improved later, allowing play to resume with a delayed start. The toss was pushed to 8:00 PM IST, with the match beginning at 8:15 PM, which, however, did come to fruition after rain returned immediately after the toss.

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Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag won the toss and opted to field, citing moisture on the pitch after recent rain. RCB captain Rajat Patidar confirmed a key change, bringing back experienced pacer Josh Hazlewood in place of Duffy. “Duffy also bowled brilliantly in the last game. But everyone knows Josh is an experienced player, specialist. But I think his presence will definitely put us in a good frame of mind,” he said at the toss.Parag stressed the importance of staying focused despite past results. “All the three games, that’s in the past. Today we’ve got to perform. If we don’t, we lose two points and we don’t want to do that,” he said, while confirming Brijesh Sharma’s inclusion in place of Tushar Deshpande.With both teams in strong form, the contest promises to be a close one, especially with RCB’s pace attack up against RR’s aggressive batting lineup led by Yashasvi Jaiswal.Playing XIs: Rajasthan Royals (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh SharmaRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Josh HazlewoodImpact Subs:

  • RCB: Suyash Sharma, Jacob Bethell, Rasikh Salam Dar, Kanishk Chouhan, Venkatesh Iyer
  • RR: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Shubham Dubey, Tushar Deshpa


Akshay Kumar shunning mass action and doing comedy in Bhooth Bangla is best news for Bollywood this year | Opinion

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Akshay Kumar shunning mass action and doing comedy in Bhooth Bangla is best news for Bollywood this year | Opinion


Maybe it was Baahubali, or maybe the KGF and Pushpa films. But something did change in Bollywood’s approach to ‘big’ films after the pandemic. As slice-of-life stories and ‘daring’ genres fell flat after the lockdowns, big stars resorted to the only formula they felt was safe – mass action, south style. And suddenly, every actor wanted their own Rocky bhai or Pushpa moment. When even the king of romance (here’s looking at you, Jawan) and National Award winners (remember Manoj Bajpayee in Bhaiyaji) were clamouring for mass action, Akshay Kumar is quietly bucking the trend. He had a decent outing with Housefull 5 last year, and now has three out-and-out comedies up for release, becoming the only major star to return to his roots. And it just may be the best thing for Bollywood this year.

Akshay Kumar is returning to his vintage comedy style with Priyadarshan's Bhooth Bangla.
Akshay Kumar is returning to his vintage comedy style with Priyadarshan’s Bhooth Bangla.

Akshay Kumar bucks the mass action trend

The first era of south-style mass action in Hindi cinema began in 2009-10 with the success of Wanted and Dabangg. And even as Salman remained the poster boy of this trend, with many hits, Akshay was one of the early adopters. He gave hits like Rowdy Rathore and Khiladi 786, which were steeped in this filmmaking grammar. After ‘pan-India’ mass films returned to Bollywood’s consciousness in this decade, other stars again followed suit. Shah Rukh found success in Pathaan and Jawan, Salman’s fortunes were mixed with Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan and Sikandar, but Ranbir Kapoor also found success with Animal. Even smaller films – Maalik with Rajkummar Rao, Subedaar with Anil Kapoor, and Bhaiyaji with Manoj Bajpayee – followed the trend.

Yet, Akshay kept doing his thing. This time, there was no Rowdy Rathore from him. Experiments like Ram Setu and Raksha Bandhan did not land, but the actor persevered. He tasted some success with OMG 2, Kesari 2, and Jolly LLB 3, and eventually found his way back to comedy.

No one does comedy like Akshay Kumar

Even though he began as an action star, Khiladi Kumar’s transformation into comedic genius was pretty organic. After Hera Pheri, he gave several hits, mostly with Priyadarshan. And during his golden phase (2007-19), the actor invariably had one comedy hit each year. His comic timing has made most of those films cult classics, and his scenes meme fodder. Akshay’s return to comedy began with Housefull 5, a film that did well at the box office but still drew a lot of criticism.

So, it is a relief that he takes that forward with his most trusted partner, Priyadarshan. The two are combining for three films – Bhooth Bangla, Haiwaan, and Hera Pheri 3. Two of them are comedies, with Bhooth Bangla all set for release this year.

Why Bhooth Bangla is important

And before you label me calling it ‘the best thing for Bollywood this year’ hyperbole, let me explain. The thing mainstream Bollywood films have been missing of late is variety. Every film looks like every other film. It seems there are but two genres right now – mass action and chirpy romance. ‘Different’ films like Tu Yaa Main and Ikkis arrive every now and then, but minus the firepower of big stars. The once-in-a-generation success of Dhurandhar is largely due to Bollywood, as it is on the shoulders of a filmmaker who has largely followed tropes.

Mainstream Hindi cinema has been churning out the same kind of films for a while now. So, Akshay and Priyadarshan bringing out something lighter, on a mega scale, is something to be appreciated. The trailer has evoked words like ‘nostalgia’ and ‘clutter-breaking’, which should tell you everything you need to know about what the audience wants.

Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Balaji Telefilms, also stars Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rajpal Yadav. The film arrives in theatres on April 17.


US inflation spike: CPI jumps to 3.3% in March as Iran war lifts energy costs

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US inflation spike: CPI jumps to 3.3% in March as Iran war lifts energy costs


US inflation spike: CPI jumps to 3.3% in March as Iran war lifts energy costs

Consumer inflation in the United States rose sharply to 3.3 per cent in March, government data showed Wednesday, as higher energy prices linked to the war in the Middle East pushed up costs for households, AFP reported.The increase marked a steep rise from 2.4 per cent year-on-year in February, reflecting the impact of surging fuel prices on overall inflation.Gasoline prices climbed 21.2 per cent between February and March — the largest monthly increase since the government began publishing a gasoline price index in 1967, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) said.Excluding volatile food and energy components, core inflation also edged higher to 2.6 per cent from 2.5 per cent a month earlier, indicating underlying price pressures.The data was broadly in line with market expectations, according to consensus estimates compiled by MarketWatch.The spike in inflation follows escalating tensions in the Middle East. The United States and Israel began bombing Iran on February 28, after which Tehran retaliated by blocking traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route that carries about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies.Despite being the world’s top crude oil producer, the United States felt the impact through sharply higher gasoline prices at the pump.The surge in inflation has added pressure on President Donald Trump, who has ordered peace talks with Iran. The administration, elected in part on a promise to bring down inflation, has maintained that the economic disruptions caused by the conflict will be temporary.


The Premier League Weekly: Race for Europe intensifies, Roberto de Zerbi in focus

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The Premier League Weekly: Race for Europe intensifies, Roberto de Zerbi in focus


As the English Premier League season edges toward the final stretch, the pressure is intensifying, both on and off the pitch. Key positions are still up for grabs, and every result now carries added weight for clubs chasing European football. Managers are under scrutiny, squads are being tested, and big decisions are looming behind the scenes.

From tactical shifts and training ground influence to contract uncertainty and potential summer moves, this is a defining period for several top sides. Emerging talents are also stepping into the spotlight at a crucial time, offering hope and unpredictability in equal measure.

The coming weeks will not just shape final standings, but could also dictate the direction of clubs heading into next season.

RACE FOR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IS ON

Five teams will earn their place in the Champions League competition next season, and Arsenal and Manchester City are virtually assured of qualification. The question is: who will join them?

Manchester United are considered favourites to win a place. Michael Carrick’s team have lost only once in their last 10 games, and the atmosphere in the dressing room at Old Trafford is both exciting and confident. It feels like a completely different club with Carrick in charge and Ruben Amorim gone. His influence has grown and was one of the main reasons Harry Maguire signed a new one-year extension to his contract this week.

United also hold a seven-point lead over sixth-placed Chelsea. Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool are in contention, with Everton also chasing a place alongside Brentford. Fulham can join them with a win away at Liverpool, but Brentford play Everton, so one of them is likely to slip back unless the match is a draw.

Michael Carrick has grown in influence within Manchester United. (Image: Reuters)
Michael Carrick has grown in influence within Manchester United. (Image: Reuters)

Villa have a tricky away game at Nottingham Forest, who are fighting for their Premier League survival, but somehow coach Unai Emery seems to conjure up wins from almost nothing. Forest are long-distance goal-scoring specialists, with Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi and even attacking midfielder Elliot Anderson joining in.

Villa have missed Youri Tielemans and John McGinn for several games, but Emery is a clever coach and will likely push his team over the line. They do, however, have two tricky final matches against Liverpool and Manchester City.

Chelsea players are still trying to master Liam Rosenior’s style of football. They have struggled but must win their next three games against both Manchester clubs at home and Brighton away to have any chance of making the top six while keeping Brentford and Everton behind them.

Liverpool are the most unpredictable team, as their form has been hot and cold. Arne Slot is under pressure, but he does have quality players to choose from. They have a difficult run to the end of the season, with a trip to United and Aston Villa, but they are also at home to Chelsea.

After speaking to all the major contenders for a Champions League place, the majority of clubs think United will make it and Liverpool will finish fourth. Villa and Chelsea could hang on for a place in Europe, but Everton and Brentford might crash the party.

DE ZERBI IMPRESSES IN TRAINING

Last week, newly appointed Tottenham coach Roberto De Zerbi took his first training session. It was typical of the man, classic De Zerbi.

The Italian was in the middle of everything, shouting, pointing, pushing, praising and instructing players to motivate his team. He organised a rondo, physical warm-ups and a drill that relied on players keeping possession from one end of the full-size training pitch to the other. Finally, he set up six-a-side games using all available players to make up three teams.

I was intrigued to notice that he spent considerable time with Lucas Bergvall. Standing with his arm around the shoulder of the young Swede, he had three separate long talks. He also focused on Mathys Tel during the rondo and told him to look around more and move with the ball before passing.

One golden gem for all budding footballers to remember was directed at 20-year-old Archie Gray. De Zerbi told him that many teams now play man-to-man, so there is pressure on defenders when they have the ball. The key is to pass quickly using one or two touches, and no more.

Spurs have been notoriously poor at playing out from the back this season, but De Zerbi believes in taking on a high press and quick tackling to win the ball. He said, “Win the ball. Attract the pressure. Attract the pressure.”

De Zerbi commanded respect from the outset, and either some of the players had done their research on the new coach or remembered that the Italian played top-level football as a No. 10 in Serie A.

There was no sign of Pedro Porro, club captain Cristian Romero or Pape Matar Sarr after their return from international duty, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is still recovering from his hernia operation.

I have seen and heard enough to think this could be an exciting Spurs revival if relegation can be avoided.

MAX DOWMAN, ARSENAL’S ACE TO WIN EPL

Following Arsenal’s surprise crash out of the FA Cup to Southampton and their Carabao Cup exit to Manchester City, Mikel Arteta said defiantly, “Now we have to show who we are.”

Arteta is under enormous pressure not to throw away yet another season for the fourth year running. Winning against Sporting CP in midweek has helped his cause. He was criticised for pulling players out of their international call-ups, suggesting injuries, but only Gabriel started against Southampton and went off injured after 72 minutes.

Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Piero Hincapie did not even make the trip to the south coast. Rice and Trossard did, however, start in midweek.

Max Dowman could be the key for Arsenal's PL title push. (Image: Reuters)
Max Dowman could be the key for Arsenal’s PL title push. (Image: Reuters)

One bright light is the emergence of Max Dowman, who was Arsenal’s best player in the cup loss to the Saints. The 16-year-old was fresher, more energetic, more influential and more skilful than his teammates. He quite literally glided past defenders on silky runs.

Speaking to Arsenal fans after the loss, they all recognised that Arteta has done a good job shielding the schoolboy youngster by playing him sparingly in cup games and making late substitute appearances. That said, now is the time to use every available asset to ensure Arsenal get over the line and lift the Premier League trophy after the final game of the season.

The Gunners have not won a trophy for six years, and Max Dowman is a player who could help change that. They need him now.

BERNARDO SILVA TO LEAVE MAN CITY

Pep Guardiola’s highly respected assistant coach Pepijn Lijnders has confirmed that Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva will leave the club at the end of the season.

Bernardo told close friends last September that 2025/26 would be his final year in the UK, but this is the first official comment to come out of the Etihad Stadium.

I am told that Benfica want to re-sign the 31-year-old. He came through their youth academy but only played three games for the senior team after an argument with then-coach Jorge Jesus before being sold to Monaco in 2014. Benfica have always regretted letting a player of Silva’s quality go.

The attacking midfielder has played 450 games for City since arriving from Monaco for 43 million GBP in 2017. He has worked brilliantly with Guardiola and won 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles.

KONATE YET TO CONFIRM CONTRACT EXTENSION

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is still only 26 years old, and it is unusual for a top-level player to be 11 weeks away from the end of a contract without clarity on whether he will stay or leave. That is the position Konate finds himself in.

Liverpool have said they want to keep him, but his agents have yet to sign any agreement, and he could become a free agent at the end of the season. However, the feeling in the dressing room at Anfield is that he will stay, although a deal is still some way off.

Ibrahima Konate wants a better contract at Liverpool. (Image: AP)
Ibrahima Konate wants a better contract at Liverpool. (Image: AP)

Konate earns 140,000 GBP a week and wants a salary more in line with some of the club’s top earners. Florian Wirtz earns 250,000 GBP a week, while Mohamed Salah takes home 400,000 GBP plus bonuses and commercial endorsements, which significantly increase that figure. Konate is not, however, looking for that level of salary.

Real Madrid showed some interest in signing the Frenchman, but that has cooled. Bayern Munich were also in the picture, but Dayot Upamecano has extended his contract until 2030, closing another potential door.

Much depends on whether Arne Slot stays and continues to support Konate, but Liverpool do not want to increase their wage structure dramatically unless necessary. It currently stands at 428 million GBP in total.

LIVERPOOL PLANNING FOR NEXT SEASON

After hearing reports regarding Arne Slot’s future at Liverpool, I travelled 300 miles north of London to Anfield to investigate what is likely to happen at the club this summer.

Much depends on the final run-in. Losing 4-0 to Manchester City in the FA Cup has not helped Slot’s cause. There is still an outside chance that the Reds could win a trophy, but progressing in the Champions League will be a major challenge. Their hopes of retaining the Premier League title were lost some time ago, and qualification for next season’s competition will be difficult.

There has been talk of replacing Slot with former player Xabi Alonso, who has enjoyed a successful managerial career. However, I am told Liverpool are not convinced by Alonso’s preferred back-three formation, as they do not believe it suits their current squad.

Slot has told friends and family that he expects to remain in charge next season after discussions with the owners, Fenway Sports Group.

After spending heavily on “technical” players last summer, Liverpool now recognise that the Premier League has shifted towards a more physical style, with pace and energy on the wings and more direct play through the centre. Set-pieces and long balls to attackers have also become more prominent, and Liverpool’s defence has struggled to cope at times.

With Mohamed Salah expected to leave, Liverpool plan to sign two new wide players. RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande is being closely monitored and is a top target. Leipzig want to keep him for another season, but Liverpool are reportedly prepared to offer 100 million GBP.

– Ends

Published By:

Amar Panicker

Published On:

Apr 10, 2026 20:01 IST

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Anil Kapoor’s 24 makes OTT comeback with JioHotstar release, all episodes to stream from this date

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Anil Kapoor’s 24 makes OTT comeback with JioHotstar release, all episodes to stream from this date


Anil Kapoor’s action thriller series 24 is set to return to streaming, with both seasons scheduled to be available on JioHotstar. Anil, who headlined the series as ATU Chief Jai Singh Rathod, will once again be at the forefront as the show makes its digital comeback.

Anil Kapoor's action show 24 gets its OTT comeback.
Anil Kapoor’s action show 24 gets its OTT comeback.

24 OTT release date out

The series will begin streaming on April 24, with a staggered release schedule that sees eight episodes drop every Friday on JioHotstar. Originally aired on Colors TV, the first season of 24 premiered in October 2013 and concluded in December 2013, while the second season aired between July 2016 and October 2016. The show is one of Anil’s most prominent television projects.

Announcing the release, Anil shared a teaser confirming the show’s arrival on the platform. In the video, he described the return of 24 as a significant moment for the spy thriller genre, calling it “the ultimate action show” and stating that it would be available exclusively on JioHotstar.

Speaking about the series, Anil said that 24 remains one of the most significant projects of his career. He noted that while he has taken on several action-driven roles, the format and execution of 24 made it a distinct experience. He described the show as an “adrenaline rush,” stressing on its fast pace, constant tension, and real-time storytelling structure, which required sustained intensity both as an actor and as a storyteller. He added that the project continues to hold personal importance for him and expressed enthusiasm about its return to audiences through streaming.

The announcement has also renewed speculation around a potential third season. Earlier, Anil responded to a fan query on social media about Season 3 with a brief message: “Coming with 24 soon,” which sparked increased interest among viewers in a possible continuation of the series. However, no official confirmation regarding a new season has been made.

About 24

Directed by Abhinay Deo and Rensil D’Silva, 24 featured a supporting cast that included Neil Bhoopalam, Raaghav Chanana, Anita Raj, and Sapna Pabbi. The series followed counter-terrorism operations led by Kapoor’s character, unfolding in a real-time narrative format that set it apart from conventional television dramas.