Woman's Family Invites Her Husband Over For Drinks, Gets Him Killed

Five years after their marriage, a woman's family got her husband killed in a case of dishonour killing in Greater Noida. The incident happened around two weeks back. 

The woman had run away and got married against her family's will five years back. Her family, who disapproved of the marriage, extended an olive branch and invited her husband over for drinks. However, while returning home, he was strangled to death by a contract killer hired by his wife's family, said police. The family mortgaged their jewels to pay the contract killers, police added. 

The victim's body was found on June 16 near Surajpur police line in Greater Noida.

The police have arrested the woman's father, uncle and two contract killers hired by them while two more accused are still absconding. The murder weapon, a towel, the car used while committing the crime and the mortgaged jewellery have also been seized by the cops. 

Efforts are on to arrest the remaining two accused, said police. 

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/HUlwE2O
via IFTTT

Coach Dravid's Team India Journey Culminates With T20 World Cup Title

When Rahul Dravid coached India to an U-19 World Cup win in 2018 - guiding the likes of Shubman Gill and Arshdeep Singh - it seemed like it was a matter of time till he became the Head Coach of the senior India Men's cricket team. And so it proved to be. Now, as the curtains are drawn on the 2024 T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid's two-and-a-half-year-long tenure comes to a close. Will he, nay should he, be remembered fondly for guiding India in a transitional phase despite the burning hunger for a major title?

Much like his predecessor Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid has possessed a dominant Indian team with very little ICC silverware to show for it. But should it define his legacy?

The undisputed best team in the world

By all stats and figures - and performances - Rahul Dravid's Team India has been the best team in the world. Team India have won 41 out of 56 ODIs, 48 out of 69 T20Is, and lost just one Test series, winning five and drawing two. In all formats, India's form has been dominant and a cut above any other team on earth.

In 2023, India walked to the Asia Cup title. And in 2024, Dravid's India held the No. 1 spot in the teams' rankings in all three formats, an unprecedented first in Indian cricket history.

At home, Australia and England have been no match for India. Away from home, India took the fight to England and South Africa, with two drawn series.

The hurt of lost Finals

2023 proved to be a year of hurt for India, as the World Test championship and ODI World Cup campaigns ended in pain in the Final. The two tournaments remain rare black spots in a shining era of Team India under Rahul Dravid.

In reality, the pain of the lost finals shows the level of dominance that Dravid's India managed to hit. India were nearly unbeaten in the 2023 World Cup and unbeaten in the 2024 T20 World Cup. It says something when a semi-final in the 2022 T20 World Cup is the worst India has done in a major ICC tournament in this period.

If anything, Dravid's era should be celebrated as one of India's finest periods, and not be looked back on with the hurt of lost finals.

Transition to the Rohit Sharma era; and transition in identity

The start of Rahul Dravid's tenure as Head Coach collided with the tumultuous change in captaincy from Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma in all formats. But Dravid didn't look to replicate the boisterous nature of the Kohli-Shastri era. Choosing to stay behind the scenes, Dravid let Rohit Sharma's India become a cohesive unit.

But the calmer it was off the field, the bolder India played on it. Rohit led by example, going hard at the top during the World Cup and showing 'Team Comes First'. Dravid's India then out-Bazballed Baz in India.

With captaincy debuts for Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill, a pathway for the future has also been set in stone.

Final thoughts

Dravid's era as India Head Coach ends with well-deserved silverware; this time an unbeaten tournament coming to fruition. It is a fitting finale to mark the end of another historic legacy for one of India's greatest cricket personalities.

As the famous saying goes, "Ant bhala toh sab bhala" (All's well that ends well).

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/k7HuUZ3
via IFTTT

First Time In 147 Years: Indian Women's Cricket Team Achieves Massive Feat

The Indian women's cricket team created history on the opening day of the Test match against South Africa on Friday as the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side scored a mammoth 525 for the loss of four wickets. It was the most runs scored by any team in a day's play in Test history (both men and women). The record previously belonged to Sri Lanka men's cricket team who scored 509 for the loss of nine wickets in the Colombo Test against Bangladesh in 2022. In women's cricket, the record belonged to England who scored 431 for the loss of two wickets against New Zealand at Lancaster Park, Christchurch in 1935.

This was also the first time that any team scored more than 520 runs in one day during a Test match.

South African spinner Delmi Tucker praised the Indian batters for producing a stunning effort on the opening day of the one-off Test, but hoped that her side can turn the tide around from Day 2.

Batting first, India posted a mammoth 525 for four with a record-breaking Shafali Verma (205) and her opening partner Smriti Mandhana (149) doing the maximum damage.

Tucker was the most successful bowler for SA, grabbing two wickets but she gave away 141 runs.

"We will look back and refresh today, sit down and have discussions about tomorrow. Nothing taking away from their (Indian) batters today; they were phenomenal," Tucker told reporters during the post-day press conference.

Although the Proteas managed to keep Shafali silent during the preceding ODI series, as she managed only 52 runs in three outings, Tucker felt that the Test format gave the Indian ample time to settle down and find her range.

"It's a different format, and obviously, she (Shafali) has more time (to settle down). She gave her all and made the most of the opportunity since she is a great batter," said Tucker.

"Yes, we were a bit off from our lines (with the ball) and wish we could have been better. But, nothing to take away from her as she did (bat) really well." The pitch was predicted to be spin-friendly, but that wasn't the case on Friday, while misfields and overthrows added to the Proteas' woes.

Tucker admitted that the visitors could not execute their strategies well on the day, and the city's hot weather too played its part.

"We did try a few things when Smriti and Verma were batting. We switched to around the wicket and changed the field. We were happy with it for some time, but they took it away," she acknowledged.

"We could have definitely been better on the field. Yeah, it's hot out there. Also, overthrows and misfields are not the best of things. But, staying positive and sharp could help in avoiding those misfields." However, Tucker focused on the fact that the pitch had started to offer some turn and they should get some purchase on Day 2.

"We knew this wicket was going to be good for spin and there was early movement upfront. There was more spin after lunch and we need to take more advantage of it tomorrow," she said.

The South African women do not have a proper red-ball setup back home, having no multi-day competitions. Tucker said it has made their task tougher despite doing their homework.

"We (SA Women) are still young (in) Test cricket, so we are still getting used to it. It's tough unlike T20s and ODIs, but we are still learning.

"I don't think we did too bad. We did our homework and we knew what was coming," she concluded. 

(With PTI inputs)

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/WncfMe9
via IFTTT

Rain Turns Delhi Into Meme Capital, Social Media Explodes With Sarcasm

Heavy rains lashed Delhi on Friday, causing widespread flooding and traffic chaos. The downpour, the heaviest in a single day of June in 88 years, brought the national capital to a standstill. Streets were inundated, flights were suspended at Terminal-1 of Delhi Airport, and power cuts affected many areas.

However, amidst the disruption, Delhi residents found humor in the situation. Social media was flooded with memes and sarcastic comments, particularly regarding the annual flooding of Minto Bridge. A video of a car submerged under the bridge went viral, with some netizens calling it the "annual vehicular sacrifice" that confirms the arrival of the monsoon.

One user joked that the weather department "doesn't consider it a proper rain until a car gets stuck under Minto Bridge." Another suggested the bridge needs "its own live feed on YouTube" during the monsoon season.

While the memes provided comic relief, the flooding caused significant issues.  Congress MP Shashi Tharoor reported his house was flooded with a foot of water, ruining furniture and carpets. He even jokingly warned Parliament colleagues he might need a boat to get to work.

This is the corner just outside my home in Lutyens' Delhi. Woke up to find my entire home under a foot of water — every room. Carpets and furniture, indeed anything on the ground, ruined. Apparently the storm water drains in the neighbourhood are all clogged so the water had no… pic.twitter.com/mublEqiGqG

— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) June 28, 2024

"People of Delhi observe annual vehicular sacrifice at Minto Bridge as part of ancient tradition officially announcing the arrival of monsoon rains in the capital," Kabir Taneja, an X user, wrote on the microblogging platform.

People of Delhi observe annual vehicular sacrifice at Minto Bridge as part of ancient tradition officially announcing the arrival of monsoon rains in the capital… https://t.co/hZwnca1qcV

— Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) June 28, 2024

Businessman Suhel Seth said, "For all those criticising the Minto Road Bridge flooding: remember only when it gets flooded do we know the monsoons are upon us. It's the only barometer we have so stop the criticism please. Am now waiting for the gondolas in Gurgaon."

Another X user with the handle @ColdCigar wrote, "Minto Bridge ke neeche jab tak gaadi na fase tab tak baarish ko baarish mausam Vibhag bhi nahi maanta hai" (Even the weather department doesn't consider it a proper rain until a car gets stuck under Minto Bridge), while one Birender Dhanoa suggested the Minto Bridge "needs its own live feed on YouTube" during the rains.

Minto Bridge ke neeche jab tak gaadi na fase tab tak baarish ko baarish mausam Vibhag bhi nahi maanta hai 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/fgE5hM50qs

— Tempest (@ColdCigar) June 28, 2024

Minto Bridge, renamed Shivaji Bridge, was built in 1933 and connects Connaught Place to the Ajmeri Gate side of the New Delhi Railway Station. Over the years, it has come to be known for being waterlogged after each spell of heavy rain, almost without fail.

Monsoon arrived in Delhi with a fury in the early hours of Friday as heavy rains, the highest in a single day of June in 88 years, brought the national capital to a standstill leaving streets flooded, traffic caught in chaos and flight operations suspended at Delhi airport's Terminal-1 due to a canopy collapse.

In several areas, vehicles were submerged as rain water flooded streets. Many areas experienced prolonged power cuts and several trees were uprooted.

X user Chetna @chetnakum said the city has four seasons - "Furnace, flood, smoke and spring" as she made light of the problems Delhi faces in different seasons.

Meanwhile, Naresh Nambisan shared the photo of a man, sleeping with a tyre tube wrapped around him. "This man in Delhi claims he would be safe even in the event of a major flood at night. I think he has a point," the X user posted.

This man in Delhi claims he would be safe even in the event of a major flood at night.
I think he has a point. pic.twitter.com/PZaulIOLNI

— Naresh Nambisan | നരേഷ് (@nareshbahrain) June 28, 2024

A video of water pouring down from the roof at Delhi airport also circulated on social media, attracting comparisons with Singapore's Jewel Changi Airport that is famous for its indoor waterfall.

The HSBC Rain Vortex at the Singapore airport is 40-metre tall and is known to be the tallest indoor waterfall in the world.

X user Banrakas posted photos of the Rain Vortex and added, "When Singapore Changi airport has a water fountain, everyone goes gaga over it. When Delhi airport has a fountain, everyone has issues with it." Another user, Vishal, said, "No need to go for Singapore, just go to Delhi and enjoy."

The heavy rains also highlighted drainage problems in the city.  Flooding subsided after water was pumped out, but the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges Delhi faces during the monsoon season.

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/gPEe3wW
via IFTTT

"We Feel ...": Why Sonakshi Sinha Didn't Want A "Wedding Video"

Sonakshi Sinha, who got married to Zaheer Iqbal on Sunday, shared a beautiful wedding video on her Instagram feed today. Sonakshi also shared an elaborate note, giving a shout out to the video team, who captured the emotions and essence of her wedding the way she wanted. Sonakshi wrote in the note, "We've met Sam and Ekta at multiple friends weddings where they've captured the essence of the couples and the overall vibe so perfectly that I promised them whenever Zaheer and I got married... they would be there! Best decision ever!"

Sonakshi continued, "We dint want a "wedding video" we wanted the emotions, where everytime we watch it, we feel how we felt in that moment... we feel what everyone there was feeling... and we got excatly that! Thank you Samwalzade and Ekta Rekhi... and your entire team... You guys are magic."

ICYMI, this is the video we are talking about. The video beautifully captures moments from their registry ceremony, garlands exchange ceremony. The video also shows the newlyweds exchanging wedding vows. The video ends with Sonakshi shedding tears and saying, "That's why Sona is crying. Pushpa is not crying." Sharing the video, Sonakshi wrote, "Family, friends, love, friendship, laughter, silly comments, kids running around, happy tears, warm hugs, excitement, bloopers, screeches, fun, joy, anticipation, nerves, emotions and above all just pure happiness this was our chaotic little Shaadi ka ghar... and it was PERFECT... it was US." Take a look:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sonakshi Sinha (@aslisona)

Sharing the wedding pictures, Sonakshi Sinha wrote a note. It read, "On this very day, seven years back (23.06.2017) in each others eyes, we saw love in its purest form and decided to hold on to it. Today that love has guided us through all the challenges and triumphs... leading up to this moment... where with the blessings of both our families and both our gods... we are now man and wife. Here's to love, hope and all things beautiful with each other, from now until forever." Sonakshi added in the post, "Sonakshi weds Zaheer. 23.06.2024" Sonakshi wore her mother's vintage saree and jewellery for the wedding. Take a look:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sonakshi Sinha (@aslisona)

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal registered their marriage under the provisions of Special Marriage Act.

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/xbAVDCh
via IFTTT

"Could've Chosen Better Words": Sam Pitroda After Congress Reappointment

Sam Pitroda -- Congress's overseas unit chief who is back in saddle after a seven-week break -- today stood by his statement about diversity among Indians that were seen as racist, but admitted that he could have put it better. "It is not about words but about the meaning... but maybe I could have done a better job," he told NDTV in an exclusive interview.  And about the row that followed that comment, he shrugged it off.

"I have to run my life. They can twist the fact that I live in Chicago and why I am talking about India... I would expect civilised conversation, dialogue... but that is lost... People are not interested in the substance of a conversation, they are interested in the form of the conversation," he said.

Mr Pitroda had stepped down from the post in May after his two consecutive statements sparked huge controversies. He was reinstated yesterday.

In an exclusive interview with The Statesman in early May, Mr Pitroda had described India as a "diverse country... where people on East look like the Chinese, people on West look like Arabs, people in the North look like maybe White and people in South look like Africans".

It had triggered a huge uproar in the run-up to the election, coming on the heels of his comments about inheritance tax.

Barely two weeks before, Mr Pitroda had cited inheritance tax as an example of "new policies that can "help prevent concentration of wealth" which should be discussed and debated. The Congress, he had added, always helps people at the bottom of the economic pyramid.

His remarks were interpreted as advocacy of inheritance tax in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had remarked that if elected, the Congress would redistribute the personal wealth of people among "infiltrators" and won't even spare the mangalsutras of women.

Mr Pitroda today said no one had questioned him about what he meant before jumping to conclusions. "When I made the comment on inheritance tax, I did not mean that I'm proposing inheritance tax. How do you come to that conclusion?"

His comments about diversity were also twisted, he said.

"Next time I said something about – my way of saying how diverse we are, people thought it was racial. There is nothing racial in saying that we came from Africa. It is a fact of life. And who says that being black is racist? No. I am dark. My wife is not very dark. So what?" he said.

"We tend to make issues out of nothing. And that's the reason I decided that is better to take myself out," he added. That was the way to bring back the focus on issues that matter, he said.

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/NczrfSQ
via IFTTT

2 Maldivian Ministers Arrested For 'Black Magic' On President: Report

Maldives police have arrested two serving ministers for allegedly performing black magic on President Mohamed Muizzu, local media reported on Thursday.

Shamnaz Saleem, who was a state minister at the Environment Ministry, her ex-husband Adam Rameez, who was serving as a minister at the President's Office, and two others were arrested, local media said quoting the police, which, however, declined to share any information about the reasons or the alleged performance of black magic.

"Shamnaz, alongside two other individuals, was arrested on Sunday. All three of them have been remanded in custody for seven days. She was suspended from her post on Wednesday as per the Environment Ministry," news portal Sun.mv reported, adding, Rameez too has been suspended on Thursday.

Incidentally, both Shamnaz and Rameez have worked with Muizzu as members of the Male City Council when he was serving as the city's mayor.

Media reported that after Muizzu assumed office as the President in November last year, Shamnaz was appointed as a state minister first at Muliaage, the official residence of the president and then transferred to the Environment Ministry.

"Rameez, during his time at Male City Council, was known as a close aide of Muizzu, who was the mayor at that time," Sun.mv said further and added, "However, he has been absent from the public light in the past five months or so." Neither the Maldives government nor the President's office has made any official comment on the issue.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News- Special https://ift.tt/DTnxeBZ
via IFTTT