Locals say the structure, in a school complex, was in use despite lying unfinished for a number of years.
Three killed as unfinished building collapses on church service in Ghana
Akshay Kumar vows to bring ‘real’ action back to Bollywood, shuns VFX and AI stunts: 'Its not fun as it feels fake'
Bollywood action star Akshay Kumar says he wants to return to raw, real-action films, rejecting the industry’s growing reliance on VFX and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for stunts. In a recent interview, the 58-year-old actor emphasised that he wants to perform his own stunts rather than rely on computer-generated effects.
Akshay wants ‘real action’ back
Akshay began his career as a bona fide action star, earning the nickname “Khiladi” for his work in the popular franchise of the same name. He delivered hits like Mohra, Suhaag, Elaan, and Jaanwar. In recent years, he led action entertainers such as Holiday, Gabbar is Back, and Sooryavanshi, his most recent full-fledged action outing.
“There is a huge difference in the way action films are being made today. Earlier, the action would be real; now, everything is done in VFX. It’s not fun as it feels fake. I want to make a film, which is real,” Akshay told news agency PTI.
Akshay, who is trained in martial arts including Karate, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, and Kudo, said, “If I’m jumping, then I’m jumping for real and not using VFX, or if I’m kicking, then I’m kicking for real, not like 15 people helping me kick people. I want to make an action film without the use of VFX. I’m saying this in the era of AI, and people may think what they wish to, but I want to do an action film that is a real action film. The audience can feel how much effort is being put in, unlike the efforts taken with the help of AI or computer.”
Currently, Akshay has expressed his desire to return to practical, physically performed stunts that offer audiences a visceral, authentic thrill. He likened his approach to action cinema to creating a painting: there is a clear difference between a real, hand-made painting and a printed, digital one. While the printed version may appear perfect, the hand-made work carries subtle flaws that give it authenticity. The choice, he suggested, ultimately lies with the audience. Akshay expressed his desire to create a “real painting” through physically performed stunts in his films.
Akshay’s career shift from action to comedy and patriotic themes
Over the past decade, Akshay’s career has shifted from full-on action to a more diverse mix of comedy and patriotic films. He has become a familiar face in ensemble comedies like the Housefull series, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Good Newwz, while also tackling the patriotic genre through a string of nationalistic films, frequently portraying army officers, intelligence agents, or individuals driven to serve and protect the country. Some of his notable patriotic projects include Airlift, Baby, Holiday, Kesari, Mission Mangal, and Sky Force, all of which showcase his consistent focus on stories of courage, duty, and patriotism.
Akshay’s upcoming roles
Akshay has joined the cast of the fifth instalment of the popular Golmaal franchise, directed by Rohit Shetty. He will join co-stars Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kemmu, and Shreyas Talpade. He is also awaiting the release of his next film, Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan, scheduled to hit theatres on April 10.
Tamil Nadu Assembly elections: Full list of TVK candidates
TVK president Vijay with party candidates during their introduction, ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, in Chennai on March 29, 2026.
| Photo Credit: PTI
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay, on Sunday (March 29, 2026), announced his decision to enter the electoral fray by contesting from two constituencies — Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East. He also unveiled in Chennai the list of candidates for all the 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu for the April 23 Assembly elections.
In its debut electoral contest, the party has fielded 24 women candidates. Prominent TVK functionaries, who have been given the ticket include its general secretary N. Anand from T. Nagar, treasurer P. Venkataramanan from Mylapore, and other functionaries Aadhav Arjuna from Villivakkam, K.A. Sengottaiyan from Gopichettipalayam, Arun Raj from Tiruchengode, and former AIADMK MLA J.C.D. Prabhakar from Thousand Lights.
The TVK’s candidate announcement came a day after the DMK announced a list of candidates for 164 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu.
In Tiruchi East constituency, Mr. Vijay is set for a high-stakes electoral contest against Inigo S. Irudayaraj of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam(DMK) and K. Rajasekaran of the AIADMK. Meanwhile, in Perambur constituency, the TVK president is in fray along with R.D. Shekar of the DMK and M. Thilagabama of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), an ally of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
Here’s the complete list of TVK candidates for 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu Assembly elections:
- Perambur – C. Joseph Vijay (TVK president)
- Tiruchi East – C. Joseph Vijay (TVK president)
- T. Nagar – ‘Bussy’ N. Anand (TVK general secretary)
- Villivakkam – Aadhav Arjuna (TVK general secretary, election campaign management)
- Gobichettipalayam – K.A. Sengottaiyan (former AIADMK MLA)
- Mylapore – P. Venkataramanan (TVK treasurer)
- Tiruchengode – K.G. Arunraaj (TVK general secretary, policy and propaganda)
- Thirupparankundram – C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar (TVK joint general secretary)
- Kumarapalayam – C. Vijayalakshmi (TVK deputy general secretary)
- Egmore (SC) – A. Rajmohan (TVK deputy general secretary)
- Lalgudi – Ku.Pa. Krishnan (former Minister)
- Tiruppur North – V. Sathyabama (former MP)
- Thousand Lights – J.C.D. Prabhakar (former AIADMK MLA)
- Tittakudi (SC) – A. Rajasekar
- Saidapet – M. Arul Prakasam (TVK deputy general secretary)
- Valparai (SC) – Dr. A. Sridharan (TVK deputy general secretary)
- R.K. Nagar – N. Maria Wilson
- Kolathur – V.S. Babu (former MLA)
- Sholavandan (SC) – M.V. Karuppiah (former MLA)
- Nanguneri – Reddiapatti Narayanan (former MLA)
- Gummidipoondi – S. Vijayakumar
- Ponneri (SC) – Dr. M.S. Ravi
- Tiruttani – M. Sathyakumar
- Tiruvallur – Dr. T. Arun Kumar
- Poonamallee (SC) – R. Prakasam
- Avadi – R. Rameshkumar
- Maduravoyal: G. Balamurugan
- Ambattur: G. Balamurugan
- Madhavaram: M.L. Vijay Prabhu
- Thiruvottiyur – N. Senthil Kumar
- Thiru-Vi-Ka-Nagar (SC) – M.R. Pallavi
- Royapuram – K.V. Vijay Thamu
- Harbour – Sinora P.S. Ashok
- Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni – T. Selvam
- Anna Nagar – V.K. Ramkumar
- Virugambakkam – R. Sabarinathan
- Velachery – R. Kumar
- Shozhinganallur – P. Saravanamoorthy
- Alandur – M. Harish
- Sriperumbudur (SC) – K. Thennarasu
- Pallavaram – J. Kamatchi
- Tambaram – D. Sarathkumar
- Chengalpattu – S. Thiyagarajan
- Thiruporur – B. Vijayaraj
- Cheyyur (SC) – K. Mohanraja
- Madurantakam (SC) – E. Ezhil Catherine
- Uthiramerur – J. Munirathinam
- Kancheepuram – R.V. Ranjith Kumar
- Arakkonam (SC) – V. Gandhiraj
- Sholingar – Dr. G. Kapil
- Katpadi – Dr. M. Sudhakar
- Ranipet – I. Thaheera
- Arcot – G. Vijay Mohan
- Vellore – M.M. Vinoth Kannan
- Anaikattu – R. Velmurugan
- Kilvaithinankuppam (SC) – E. Thendral Kumar
- Gudiyattam (SC) – K. Sindhu
- Vaniyambadi – S. Sayed Burhanudeen
- Ambur – P. Imthiyas
- Jolarpet – C. Munisamy
- Tirupattur – Dr. N. Thiruppathi
- Uthangarai (SC) – P. Kumaravel
- Bargur – E. Muralidharan
- Krishnagiri – P. Mukundhan
- Veppanahalli – S.R. Sambangi
- Hosur – M. Ambarish
- Thalli – G. Suresh
- Palacode – R. Gopi
- Pennagaram – C. Gajendran
- Dharmapuri – M. Sivan
- Pappireddippatti – S. Thilavathi
- Harur (SC) – K. Rakesh
- Chengam (SC) – K. Bharathidhasan
- Tiruvannamalai – Arul Arumugam
- Kilpennathur – D. Raja
- Kalasapakkam – C. Elumalai
- Polur – R. Abishek
- Arani – V. Venkatesh Kumar
- Cheyyar – Dusi K. Mohan
- Vandavasi (SC) – M. Udhayakumar
- Gingee – V. Chandrasekaran
- Mailam – A. Vijay Niranjan
- Tindivanam (SC) – S. Sakthivel
- Vanur (SC) – G.P. Suresh
- Villupuram – N. Mohanraj
- Vikravandi – A. Vijay Vadivel
- Tirukkoyilur – Vijay R. Baranibalaji
- Ulundurpettai – M. Sudhakar
- Rishivandiyam – G. Ashok Kumar
- Sankarapuram – A. Jagadeesan
- Kallakurichi (SC) – C. Arul Vignesh
- Gangavalli (SC) – V. Sujatha
- Attur (SC) – R. Selvabharathi
- Yercaud (ST) – J. Lakshmi
- Omalur – R.V. Adhiyaman
- Mettur – K. Selvam
- Edappadi – M. Arunkumar
- Sangagiri – Senthilkumar
- Salem West – S. Lakshmanan
- Salem North – K. Sivakumar
- Salem South – A. Vijay Tamilan Parthiban
- Veerapandi – M.S. Palanivel
- Rasipuram (SC) – D. Lokesh Dhanapal
- Senthamangalam (ST) – P. Chandrasekar
- Namakkal – C.S. Dileep
- Paramathi-Velur – A. Nandhakumar
- Erode East – M. Vijay Balaji
- Erode West – K.K. Anand Mohan
- Modakkurichi – D. Shanmugam
- Dharapuram (SC) – S. Gowri Chithra
- Kangeyam – P. Mani
- Perundurai – V.P. Arunachalam
- Bhavani – M.P. Balakrishnan
- Anthiyur – M. Vijay Venkatesh
- Bhavanisagar (SC) – V.P. Tamil Selvi
- Udhagamandalam – R. Ibrahim
- Gudalur (SC) – A. Deepak Sai Kishore
- Coonoor – C. Thangaraju
- Mettuppalayam – N. Sunil Anand
- Avanashi (SC) – S. Kamali
- Tiruppur South – S. Balamurugan
- Palladam – K. Ramkumar
- Sulur – N.M. Sukumar
- Kavundampalayam – R.D. Kanimozhi
- Coimbatore North – V. Sampathkumar
- Thondamuthur – R. Sathish Raju
- Coimbatore South – V. Senthil Kumar
- Singanallur – K.S. Giriprasath
- Kinathukadavu – K. Vignesh
- Pollachi – G. Ramanathan
- Udumalaipettai – G.K. Shankar
- Madathukulam – R. Thirumalai
- Palani – Dr. M. Praveen Kumar
- Oddanchatram – S. Mohan
- Athoor – N. Kalaiselvi
- Nilakkottai (SC) – R. Ayyanar
- Natham – L.N. Ramesh
- Dindigul – G. Nazeer Raja
- Vedasandur – Dr. N. Nagajothi
- Aravakurichi – P. Karthikeyan
- Karur – V.P. Mathiyazhagan
- Krishnarayapuram (SC) – S. Madhan
- Kulithalai – G. Balasubramani
- Manapparai – R. Kathiravan
- Srirangam – S. Ramesh
- Tiruchi West – G. Ramamoorthy
- Thiruverumbur – Navalpattu S. Viji
- Manachanallur – V. Saravanan
- Musiri – M. Vignesh
- Thuraiyur (SC) – M. Ravishankar
- Perambalur (SC) – K. Sivakumar
- Kunnam – M. Revathi
- Ariyalur – M. Sivakumar
- Jayankondam – Kavitha G. Rajendran
- Vridhachalam – S. Vijay
- Neyveli – K. Anand
- Panruti – M. Manikandan
- Cuddalore – B. Rajkumar
- Kurinjipadi – D. Rajkumar
- Bhuvanagiri – T. Mahalingam
- Chidambaram – Dr. N. Pari
- Kattumannarkoil (SC) – Dr. S. Seenuvasan
- Sirkazhi (SC) – C.S. Gopinath
- Mayiladuthurai – S.S. Haroon Rasheeth
- Poompuhar – J. Vijayalayan
- Nagapattinam – M. Sukumar
- Kilvelur (SC) – T.A.P. Senthil Pandiyan
- Vedaranyam – A. Kingsley Gerald
- Thiruthuraipoondi (SC) – S. Pandiyan
- Mannargudi – U.V.M. Rajarajan
- Thiruvarur – V. Veeramani
- Nannilam – S. Prabhakaran
- Thiruvidaimarudur – S. Prabhakaran
- Kumbakonam – R. Vinoth
- Papanasam – U. Azarudeen
- Thiruvaiyaru – M. Manikandan
- Thanjavur – R. Vijay Saravanan
- Orathanadu – K. Aravind
- Pattukkottai – C. Madhan
- Peravurani – D. Chandrakaandeeban
- Gandharvakottai (SC) – N. Subramanian
- Viralimalai – P. Murugesan
- Pudukkottai – K.M. Shareef
- Thirumayam – C. Sindhamani
- Alangudi – Durai Kandasamy
- Aranthangi – J. Mohamad Parvez
- Karaikudi – Dr. T.K. Prabhu
- Tiruppattur – Srinivasa Sethupathi
- Sivaganga – Kulandhai Rani Nachiar
- Manamadurai (SC) – D. Ilangovan
- Melur – A. Madurai Veeran
- Madurai East – S. Karthikeyan
- Madurai North – A. Kallanai
- Madurai South – J. Jo Peter
- Madurai Central – V.M.S. Mustafa
- Madurai West – S.R. Thangapandi
- Thirumangalam – N. Sathishkumar
- Usilampatti – M. Vijay
- Andipatti – V. Pandi
- Periyakulam (SC) – G. Sabari
- Bodinayakanur – S. Prakash
- Cumbum – P.L.A. Jaganath Mishra
- Rajapalayam – K. Jagadeeswari
- Srivilliputhur (SC) – A. Karthik
- Sattur – M. Ajith
- Sivakasi – S. Keerthana
- Virudhunagar – S.P. Selvam
- Aruppukkottai – K. Karthik Kumar
- Tiruchuli – S. Samayan
- Paramakudi (SC) – G. Gopirajan
- Tiruvadanai – V.K. Rajiv
- Ramanathapuram – E.A. Sahul Hameed
- Mudukulathur – B. Malarvizhi Jayabala
- Vilathikulam – P. Kasiram
- Thoothukudi – A. Srinath
- Tiruchendur – J. Murugan
- Srivaikuntam – G. Saravanan
- Ottapidaram (SC) – P. Madhanraja
- Kovilpatti – S. Balasubramanian
- Sankarankovil (SC) – C. Ramarajan
- Vasudevanallur (SC) – R. Amudha Rani
- Kadayanallur – R.K. Abdul Jalil
- Tenkasi – A. Rajaprakash
- Alangulam – V. Vipin Chakravarthi
- Tirunelveli – R.S. Murugan
- Ambasamudram – S. Rajagopal
- Palayamkottai – S. Maria John
- Radhapuram – K. Satheesh Christopher
- Kanniyakumari – S.R. Madhavan
- Nagercoil – G. Perveen King
- Colachel – Dr. Prem Alex Lawrence
- Padmanabhapuram – S. Krishnakumar
- Vilavancode – K. Michael Kumar
- Killiyoor – S. Sabeen
Published – March 30, 2026 07:08 pm IST
IPL 2026: Harbhajan Singh believes Rahane should have bowled Narine vs Rohit
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was disappointed by Ajinkya Rahane`s captaincy against the Mumbai Indians. Harbhajan believed that Rahane should have used Sunil Narine early in the innings against Rohit Sharma, given his good record against the MI opener.
KKR bowlers took a thrashing on Wankhede Stadium as MI chased down 221 runs comfortably. Rohit Sharma starred with 78 runs off 38 balls, along with his opening partner, Rickleton, who scored 81 off 43 balls. The opening pair scored 148 runs in 72 balls to set the platform for a comfortable chase for the hosts.
Speaking about KKR`s approach towards defending their total, Harbhajan Singh showed his disappointment over the use of Sunil Narine. Narine was brought into the attack after the power play when Rohit and Rickleton were both set.
“The best match-up was to bowl Sunil Narine in the powerplay, at least one or two overs to target Rohit Sharma early. That was their best chance to pick wickets and put Mumbai under pressure. Instead, Narine didn`t even complete his full quota, which shows the captaincy wasn`t up to the mark. Credit to Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton. They batted with ease and never let the bowlers settle, but KKR could have handled that phase much better,” Harbhajan told JioStar.
Harbhajan and Irfan Pathan heap praise on Shardul Thakur
Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan heaped praise on Shardul Thakur, who took three wickets in the first innings. The duo praised Shardul`s wholeheartedness and confidence while bowling difficult overs.
“He`s not a bowler who gets intimidated, even when batters are attacking. He keeps coming at you. What stands out is how he uses his variations,” Pathan said.
“Every time he starts his run-up, he`s already changing his grip, whether it`s for a slower ball, cross-seam, or even a scrambled seam delivery. He`s always trying to make something happen.” Pathan added.
Irfan Pathan further added that Shardul constantly experiments with his bowling and is reaping the rewards now.
“He invites batters to go for big shots and thrives on that. He doesn`t have express pace or big swing, but he`s constantly experimenting with different lengths and speeds, and that`s why he keeps picking up wickets,” Pathan concluded.
(With PTI Input)
Stock market today (March 30, 2026): Which are the top gainers and losers in Nifty50 and BSE Sensex today? Check list
Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended the last trading session of the 2025-26 financial year sharply lower on Monday, as the ongoing war in West Asia and rising crude oil prices kept investor sentiment under pressure.Weak cues from Asian markets and continued foreign fund outflows further dragged domestic equities.Extending losses for the second straight session, the 30-share BSE Sensex plunged 1,635.67 points or 2.22 per cent to settle at 71,947.55. During the day, it dropped 1,809.09 points or 2.45 per cent to 71,774.13.Here are the top gainers and losers of the day:
Nifty50 top gainers:
- Hindalco (2.05%)
- Coal India (1.22%)
- ONGC (0.96%)
- Power Grid (0.21%)
Nifty50 top losers:
- Bajaj Finance (-5.01%)
- Kwality Wall’s (-4.79%)
- SBI (-3.94%)
- InterGlobe Aviation (-3.81%)
- Bajaj Finserv (-3.72%)
- Axis Bank (-3.65%)
- Jio Financial Services (-3.64%)
- Adani Enterprises (-3.53%)
- Shriram Finance (-3.51%)
- Kotak Bank (-3.49%)
BSE Sensex top gainers:
BSE Sensex top losers:
- Bajaj Finance (-5.01%)
- Kwality Wall’s (-4.79%)
- SBI (-3.94%)
- InterGlobe Aviation (-3.81%)
- Bajaj Finserv (-3.72%)
- Axis Bank (-3.65%)
- Kotak Bank (-3.49%)
- Bharti Airtel (-3.34%)
- HDFC Bank (-3.26%)
- Trent (-3.06%)
The broader market also reflected the sharp sell-off, with 3,563 stocks declining, 876 advancing and 154 remaining unchanged on the BSE.The 50-share NSE Nifty slumped 488.20 points or 2.14 per cent to close at 22,331.40.“The downturn was primarily driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which dashed hopes of de-escalation and pushed crude oil prices higher, raising concerns over inflation and macro stability for oil-importing economies like India.“Weak global cues, including declines across Asian and US markets, coupled with continued foreign institutional outflows and a weakening rupee, further weighed on sentiment,” Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd, said, PTI quoted.Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, jumped 2.18 per cent to $115.1 per barrel. In the last two trading sessions, the Sensex has fallen 3,325.9 points or 4.41 per cent, while the Nifty has dropped 975.05 points or 4.18 per cent.For the full 2025-26 financial year, the Sensex declined 5,467.37 points or 7 per cent, and the Nifty fell 1,187.95 points or 5 per cent.Broader markets also came under pressure, with the BSE MidCap Select index falling 3.13 per cent and the SmallCap Select index declining 2.14 per cent.All sectoral indices ended in the red, with auto, FMCG, consumer durables, capital goods, realty, private banks and PSU banks dropping between 2 per cent and 4 per cent.The BSE PSU Bank index plunged 4.60 per cent, followed by MidSmall Private Banks Quality Tilt (3.96 per cent), Bankex (3.80 per cent), Financial Services (3.46 per cent), Private Banks (3.43 per cent), BSE Top 10 Banks (3.40 per cent), Telecommunication (3.09 per cent) and Realty (3.03 per cent).“Banking stocks were among the key laggards following the RBI’s new restrictions on banks’ foreign exchange positions aimed at stabilising the rupee, which led to sharp declines across major private and public sector lenders.“While valuations now appear more favourable after the recent correction, the trajectory of earnings revisions remains the key determinant of market direction. Continued volatility in oil prices and rupee weakness may exert pressure on input costs, increasing the risk of near-term earnings downgrades,” Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments Limited, said.Meanwhile, the rupee gained 7 paise in a volatile session to close at 94.78 (provisional) against the US dollar, after hitting an all-time intra-day low of 95.22.In Asian markets, South Korea’s Kospi and Japan’s Nikkei 225 plunged nearly 3 per cent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index also ended lower. Shanghai’s SSE Composite index closed in positive territory.Markets in Europe were trading marginally higher, while US markets had ended sharply lower on Friday, with the Nasdaq Composite down 2.15 per cent, the Dow Jones Industrial Average losing 1.73 per cent and the S&P 500 declining 1.67 per cent.“Indian equities extended their decline, with benchmark indices falling over 2 per cent, underscoring a deepening sell-off sentiment driven by persistent global uncertainties and rising crude oil prices,” Hariprasad K, Research Analyst and Founder, Livelong Wealth, said.Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 4,367.30 crore on Friday, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought stocks worth Rs 3,566.15 crore, as per exchange data.Foreign investors have pulled out Rs 1.14 lakh crore (about $12.3 billion) from domestic equities in March, marking the worst monthly outflow, amid escalating tensions in West Asia, a weakening rupee and concerns over elevated crude oil prices.
Vijay says he has left his riches and joined politics, urges people to vote for his party TVK: ‘I will never lie’
TVK chief, actor-politician Vijay will contest from two seats in the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly polls for his party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK). On Monday, Vijay filed his nomination to contest Assembly polls from Perambur constituency in Chennai and appealed to the people to give an opportunity to his party TVK and vote for the party’s whistle symbol on April 23.
What Vijay said
He addressed thousands of supporters from his open-top campaign vehicle, saying that he is here for the people, and went on to reiterate his allegation that the DMK was an evil force. He said, “We have to save Tamil Nadu. Who is responsible for this plight? The evil force DMK is the reason for this situation, Stalin sir is the reason. This is a selection for the next generation. I have come here only because of you. I have thrown away my rich life and come here only to repay you. I will never lie, never deceive you.”
He continued, “Do you want Stalin, who runs an anti-people government? Or do you want Vijay, who loves people? Please give an opportunity and vote for the whistle symbol. This should be a whistle revolution election. Is there safety in the regime of this evil force DMK? Did children have safety? Did you live peacefully? What can be done with this evil force, the DMK government, which offers no security and no employment? Shall we throw it away? Next, they will have piles of money and won’t know what to do with it, so they’ll give it to all of you, dreaming of winning somehow. As I said before, take everything. Take it and blow the whistle in their ears and send them away.”
More details
The two seats of Vijay will be Perambur and Trichy East. Vijay will face DMK’s sitting MLA RD Shekar, who will contest from Perambur. He is also pitted against the sitting MLA and DMK candidate Inigo Irudayaraj in Trichy East. Elections to 234 Assembly segments in the state will be held on April 23. Counting is scheduled for May 4, while the assembly’s current tenure ends on May 10.
Vijay announced a series of key election promises, stressing his vision for a drug-free and self-reliant Tamil Nadu. He also assured that all government examinations will be conducted on time without delays. Highlighting youth welfare, Vijay announced a monthly assistance of ₹4,000 for graduates and ₹2,000 for diploma holders.
Allu Arjun is likely to team up with Basil Joseph for 'AA25'
Icon Star Allu Arjun is reportedly set to collaborate with Malayalam filmmaker Basil Joseph for his milestone 25th film, ‘AA25’. This potential project, rumored to be a fresh story rather than a ‘Shaktimaan’ reboot, has generated significant excitement among fans, especially given Arjun’s popularity in Kerala as ‘Mallu Arjun’.
Allu Arjun, popularly known as the Icon Star, is currently busy with several big projects and continues to expand his reach in the pan-Indian market. He has already announced films with Atlee and Lokesh Kanagaraj. In the middle of this busy phase, an interesting rumour has caught the attention of fans and film circles. Reports suggest that Malayalam filmmaker Basil Joseph might direct one of Allu Arjun’s upcoming films. The buzz grew stronger after Basil Joseph was spotted at the wedding reception of Allu Arjun’s brother, Allu Sirish. This appearance led many fans to believe the collaboration could soon become official.
Allu Arjun’s landmark film is likely to be directed by Basil Joseph
According to India Today, Basil Joseph may direct Allu Arjun’s 25th film, currently referred to as ‘AA25.’ If this project gets the green light, it’ll be a significant moment for the actor. The partnership is noteworthy, promising to blend Tollywood’s broad reach with Mollywood’s inventive narratives. Allu Arjun enjoys a massive following in Kerala; people there affectionately refer to him as “Mallu Arjun.” His films have consistently done well in the state, solidifying his status as one of the most beloved Telugu actors in the region. Working with a talented director from Kerala for the first time has increased excitement among fans.
Basil Joseph’s unique filmmaking style raises expectations
Basil Joseph gained recognition for the superhero movie ‘Minnal Murali,’ in which he worked with actor Tovino Thomas. The Malayalam filmmaker has a knack for transforming a seemingly ordinary narrative into something captivating and imaginative. His films often mix emotion, fantasy, and humour while maintaining a grounded narrative. Because of this unique style, many film lovers are curious to see how he will present Allu Arjun on screen. Earlier, there were rumours that the duo might work on a reboot of the superhero project ‘Shaktimaan,’ but recent reports suggest this collaboration will feature a completely new story.
Fans await official announcement
Reports also suggest that Allu Aravind may produce the project. It has been a while since Allu Arjun worked under his father’s production house, which makes this project even more special for fans. The film is expected to go on floors by late 2026 or early 2027 if everything goes as planned.
Only 5 in 253! Matches MS Dhoni has missed for CSK in IPL | Cricket News
MS Dhoni will miss Chennai Super Kings‘ (CSK) IPL 2026 opener against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Monday in Guwahati, marking a rare absence for the wicketkeeper-batter who has been a constant presence for the team over the years.Dhoni has long been central to CSK as captain, finisher and wicketkeeper, but this match at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium will go ahead without him. His absence brings focus on the last time he missed a game and how often he has been unavailable since the IPL began in 2008.The last time Dhoni did not feature in a CSK match in IPL was during the 2019 season. He missed the April 26 game against Mumbai Indians at the M A Chidambaram Stadium due to fever, with Suresh Raina leading the side. He also sat out a match earlier that season against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 17 due to a back spasm.Across his IPL career, Dhoni has missed only five matches. Monday’s fixture will only be the sixth instance of Dhoni missing an IPL match for CSK. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have played 253 total matches in the Indian Premier League (spanning 2008–2025). Three of those came in the 2010 season — against Delhi Daredevils in Delhi, Kings XI Punjab in Chennai, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru.Dhoni’s five prior misses were extremely sparse and spread across nearly a decade:2010 season (three matches):
- vs Delhi Daredevils (Delhi)
- vs Kings XI Punjab (Chennai)
- vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Bengaluru)
2019 season (two matches):
- vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Hyderabad, April 17) – back spasm.
- vs Mumbai Indians (Chennai, April 26) – fever.
Since 2020, Dhoni has played every match he was available for, including leading CSK to titles in 2021 and 2023. He also featured in all 14 matches during the 2025 season. The only gap in his IPL participation came during the 2016 and 2017 seasons when CSK were suspended and he played for Rising Pune Supergiant.The 44-year-old is currently dealing with a calf injury and is expected to be unavailable at least until mid-April, though a return later in the month remains possible.With 278 appearances, Dhoni is the most-capped player in IPL history, and he has led a side in 235 matches, the most by any captain. His absence leaves a younger CSK side without one of its most experienced players.
Sunil Lahri says fan pretended to be his relative to enter his building, recalls similar incident from Ramayan days
Television actor Sunil Lahri, who is best known for playing Lakshman in the iconic television series Ramayan, recently shared a video revealing how a fan tried to meet him by pretending to be his relative. The actor also recalled a similar incident that had happened during the shooting days of Ramayan.
Sunil Lahri reveals a fan tried to enter his house pretending to be his relative
On Monday, Sunil took to Instagram and shared a video in which he spoke about the unusual fan encounter. He said, “Jai Shri Ram. I would like to share a very interesting story with you all, which reminded me of the days of Ramayan shooting. Recently, someone came to our building to meet me, pretending to be my relative. When our security checked, they found out that he was lying, so they sent him away.”
He revealed that the incident reminded him of another fan interaction from the time of Ramayan. Recalling the moment, he said, “One day, after we had been shooting in the sun for a long time, I had a 2-3 day break. I didn’t have a beard, and I had oil in my hair. I was walking near the main gate of the studio when a gentleman came and said, ‘Hello, I would like to meet Sunil Lahiri.’ I asked him who he was, and he said, ‘I am his brother. I am from Bhopal.’ It was amazing. He came to meet me but couldn’t recognise me. He pretended to be my brother.”
Reflecting on the strange yet amusing experience, the actor ended his story with a philosophical note. He said, “It is said that when your time is right, strangers become your relatives. Wah ri duniya, kamaal hai (What a world, truly unbelievable). Take care of yourself. Be happy, be healthy. Jai Shri Ram.”
Many of his fans agreed with his final remark and reacted in the comments section. One user wrote, “What you said is the truth of the world Laxman Bhaiya.” Another commented, “Sir this is love of your fans.” A third wrote, “Absolutely right, the moment someone becomes successful, people suddenly start claiming to be their relatives.”
About Sunil Lahri
Sunil made his acting debut with the 1980 film The Naxalites, in which he appeared alongside Smita Patil. He later went on to feature in films such as Phir Aayi Barsaat, Baharon Ke Manzil, Janam Kundli, and A Daughter’s Tale Pankh. However, it was his role as Lakshman in Ramanand Sagar’s 1987 television classic Ramayan that turned him into a household name. He further cemented his place on the small screen with shows like Param Vir Chakra, Luv Kush, and Sapno Ki Duniya, among others.
Trump ‘pretty sure’ of Iran deal, but can Pakistan-led efforts end the war? | US-Israel war on Iran News
Islamabad, Pakistan – When the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt landed in Islamabad over the weekend, it marked the second meeting in less than two weeks of a diplomatic track working to contain the fallout of the US-Israel war on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory strikes across the region.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed at the conclusion of Sunday’s consultations that the US and Iran had expressed confidence in Pakistan to facilitate direct talks. Islamabad, he said, was “honoured” to host them “in the coming days, for a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the ongoing conflict”.
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The four ministers, he added, held “a very detailed and in-depth discussion” on the war, reaffirmed “unity to contain the situation, reduce the risk of military escalations and create conditions for structured negotiations”, and agreed to constitute a Committee of Four senior officials, one from each foreign ministry, to work out the modalities of the process.
Besides Dar, the meeting was attended by foreign ministers Hakan Fidan of Turkiye, Badr Abdelatty of Egypt and Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud of Saudi Arabia.
The quadrilateral format first came together on the sidelines of the broader Arab and Islamic consultative meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on March 19. What began as a wider gathering has hardened into a focused four-country peace push, with Pakistan acting as the primary channel between Washington and Tehran.
Hours later, in an interview with the British newspaper Financial Times, United States President Donald Trump said his “favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran” and did not rule out seizing Kharg Island, the export hub that handles roughly 90 percent of Iran’s crude.
“Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options,” Trump said. He also confirmed that indirect talks via Pakistani “emissaries” were progressing and reiterated the April 6 deadline he set on Truth Social on March 26 for Iran to accept a deal or face US strikes on its energy sector.
But on board Air Force One on Sunday, Trump said, “I do see a deal in Iran, yeah. Could be soon”, and described negotiations as going “extremely well”.
Those contrasting postures underscored the central tension confronting Pakistan’s diplomatic initiative.
At a moment when Islamabad and its partners are attempting to build a multilateral framework to prevent further escalation, the war appears headed in the opposite direction, with continued Israeli strikes and an expanding US military presence in the region.
‘Baby steps’ amid escalation
Mushahid Hussain Sayed, former Pakistani information minister, senator and foreign policy analyst, said the Islamabad meeting was significant for three reasons.
He described it as the first institutional initiative from the Muslim world aimed at opening a pathway to dialogue.
According to Sayed, Pakistan and Turkiye, both neighbours of Iran, are among the most credible interlocutors available, one a nuclear power and the other a NATO member.
“Both Iran and the US have reposed confidence in Pakistan as a bridge of communication between Tehran and Washington, and most likely the feasible venue for any future peace talks,” he told Al Jazeera.
But he was blunt about the limitations. “These are baby steps for diplomacy in a war scenario that is not only escalating but also becoming more complicated by the day,” Sayed said.
Masood Khan, Pakistan’s former ambassador to the US and the United Nations, said the meeting had “opened a diplomatic corridor, building on earlier shuttle diplomacy, sustained communications and behind-the-scenes efforts to persuade the United States and Iran to engage”.
The Committee of Four, he said, provides a structured backchannel, enabling “a step-by-step, layered, and calibrated process” supported by regional consensus.
Khan outlined four possible stages: trust-building measures, ceasefire negotiations, direct talks on complex issues including the nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz, and ultimately an agreement on reciprocal commitments.
However, he cautioned that major obstacles remain. “Tehran’s demands for war reparations and its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz are likely to prove the most difficult issues to resolve,” Khan told Al Jazeera.
Before the ministers’ meeting, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a 90-minute call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, briefing him on Islamabad’s diplomatic outreach to the US, Gulf states and other Islamic countries to “create a conducive environment for peace talks”, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed Beijing’s full backing for the initiative, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also expressed support.
A senior Pakistani diplomat said China was “very supportive” of Pakistan’s efforts, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed in a statement on Monday that at Wang’s invitation, Dar will visit China on March 31.
“In this context, the upcoming visit will provide an opportunity for both sides to hold in-depth discussions on regional developments, as well as bilateral and global issues of mutual interest,” the statement from the ministry said.
Dar suffered a hairline fracture in his shoulder after a fall on Sunday while meeting his Egyptian counterpart, according to his son, and the ministry said his upcoming visit, despite medical advice, underscores the importance of the Pakistan-China relationship.
Positions remain far apart
The positions formally put forward by both sides remain structurally incompatible, say analysts.
Washington’s 15-point plan, transmitted to Tehran via Pakistan, includes a one-month ceasefire, a handover by Iran of its highly enriched uranium stockpiles, a halt to further enrichment, curbs on Tehran’s ballistic missile programme and an end to support for regional proxies.
Iran’s counterproposal, outlined by state-funded broadcaster Press TV, citing a senior political security official, calls for a halt to aggression and killings, concrete guarantees against recurrence, reparations, an end to hostilities against Iran’s allies and formal recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump told reporters on board Air Force One on Sunday that Iran had agreed to “most of” the 15 points.
On Monday, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that Tehran had received messages via intermediaries, but described the US proposals as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive”.
Baghaei appeared sceptical about the prospects of the Islamabad dialogue yielding a peace deal.
“The meetings that Pakistan has are a framework that they established themselves, and we did not participate in,” he said. “It is good for the countries of the region to be concerned about ending the war, but they should be careful about which side started the war.”
Khan, the former diplomat, said Iran’s scepticism ran deep. “Iran suspects that the diplomatic process could serve as a smokescreen for a ground assault along its coastline, adjacent islands, or the Strait of Hormuz. No magic wand can erase such a deeply entrenched trust deficit overnight,” he said, adding that trust-building “must proceed at a brisk pace given the devastating humanitarian and military costs”.
Javad Heiran-Nia, director of the Persian Gulf Studies Group in Tehran, said any preliminary engagement must ensure neither side feels it has “surrendered”.
“The negotiation framework should be such that each party can participate without feeling it has given in, with a focus on low-cost and fruitful issues in the short term,” he told Al Jazeera.
A realistic first step, he said, would be a US commitment to postpone threats against Iran’s power plants for a sustained period, alongside guarantees from third countries on interim arrangements.
Reza Khanzadeh, an adjunct professor at George Mason University, said the burden of compromise ultimately lies with Washington.
Iran, he said, believes any deal short of its own terms could invite future attacks, making regime survival non-negotiable.
“They may be willing to compromise on the nuclear programme, the ballistic missile programme, and support for regional proxies,” he said. “Tehran will not compromise on its existence. And therefore, Iranians are willing to fight for as long as it takes.”
He also pointed to mounting domestic pressure in the US, noting Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 36 percent in recent polls, driven by rising fuel costs and public concern over the war.
Khan identified the most decisive confidence-building measure as one Washington has yet to deliver.
“A commitment from Washington to ensure that Israel halts its attacks on Iran and Lebanon and withdraws from recently occupied Lebanese territory. That, however, is easier said than done,” he said.
Strait of Hormuz and economic pressure
Iran’s agreement to allow 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, confirmed by Dar over the weekend and acknowledged by Trump, is the most immediate confidence-building measure on the table.
The strait remains effectively closed to normal shipping. The International Energy Agency has described the disruption as the worst oil shock in history, surpassing the crises of 1973 and 1979.
Brent crude rose above $116 per barrel in early Monday trading in Asia, up more than 50 percent since the war began on February 28. The World Trade Organization’s director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said global trade is experiencing its “worst disruptions in the past 80 years”.
But Sayed, who is also the founding chairman of the Islamabad-based Pakistan China Institute, said Iran’s “closure of the Strait of Hormuz is not the cause but the consequence of the conflict”.
Just as Saudi King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud weaponised oil exports in October 1973 – cutting off supplies to the US and its allies in retaliation for their support of Israel during the Arab-Israeli war, triggering a global energy crisis – Iran had deployed the strait to counterbalance US-Israeli military firepower with an economic chokehold, he argued.
Khan cautioned against treating the strait as the centrepiece of any settlement.
“The Strait of Hormuz will remain a residual issue and will ultimately need to be addressed by the eight littoral states of the Persian Gulf, with reference to UNCLOS and established legal precedents,” he said, referring to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The immediate priority, he argued, was a broader halt to hostilities.
“The foremost confidence-building measure would be a pause in hostilities, a truce that provides respite to the warring sides and creates space for peacemakers,” he said.
Heiran-Nia proposed a phased approach.
“First agree on a limited ceasefire and halt to attacks on civilian targets; reduce forces in critical areas and establish confidential channels for information exchange in a second step; and then move to broader ceasefire negotiations,” the Tehran-based analyst said.
Any withdrawals, he added, should be measurable, with mediators acting as a “secret channel” to ensure reciprocity.
The spoiler problem
Even as diplomatic efforts continue, the military trajectory remains escalatory.
An amphibious task force of about 3,500 Marines and sailors led by the USS Tripoli arrived in the region on Friday, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
Another 2,200 Marines are heading to the Gulf, alongside 2,000 soldiers from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division.
Trump has made clear that military options remain under consideration. Other reports suggest the Pentagon is preparing for potential ground operations that could last weeks.
Israel, which waged its genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023 and has invaded southern Lebanon for the second time since, struck Tehran again on Sunday.
US and Israeli forces killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior leaders in the opening salvo on February 28. They later killed top security official Ali Larijani on March 17.
Iran’s atomic energy organisation said a projectile landed within the compound of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant without causing damage, according to state media.
Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon said operations would continue until Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities are eliminated, adding that Israel was not part of any US-Iran talks.
Khan said, despite these pressures, Iran has, for now, “acquiesced to mediation and reposed their trust in Pakistan and Turkiye to move the process forward”.
But he warned of the risks if diplomacy fails.
“The biggest obstacle remains the continuous and unabated attacks on Iran and Lebanon by Israel, which appears to be operating in overdrive. Such escalatory steps risk derailing this seminal yet delicate diplomatic process and could plunge the world into a nuclear-triggered catastrophe, an outcome that must be averted at all costs,” he said.
Sayed agreed, arguing that Iran has “zero trust” in US and Israeli assurances.
“The key question that will determine the outcome is who can suffer more pain in the long run. The US and Israel can inflict pain, but they certainly cannot incur it. It is the classic lesson of asymmetrical warfare: the weaker side wins by not losing,” he said.
Heiran-Nia stressed that any agreement would require robust safeguards.
“Any confidence-building measures must include early warning mechanisms to detect and stop any attempts at sabotage,” he said. “These measures must be short-term, reversible and reciprocal so that any possible disruption does not cause permanent damage.”
