Bigg Boss 13 contestant Arti Singh urges people to practice yoga during these times of COVID-19 stress. The quarantine has given a chance to people to do the things that they didn't otherwise get time for, owing to their busy work schedules.

Apart from doing daily household chores, cooking and catching up on films and web-series, Arti has also been practicing yoga. "I used to practice yoga daily when I was in Lucknow but I lost touch in between. Now that we are all home and have time in our hands, I have got back to doing it daily. Usually, I try to do it as soon as I wake up or in the evenings, depending upon how I am feeling that day," she said.

"Yoga has positively affected me as it helps calm down my mind. I encourage everyone to do a short session of yoga every day, as these are testing times we are all facing. Yoga will essentially keep you calm and patient," she added.

 

 

 

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Hey Abbie..(abs ) Finally now I can see you little little... you are surely on the way and coming very very soon! Till then for everyone here’s the first photo which was taken on the 15th of march and the other one was today..! I just want to say that I know it's not the best but slowly and steadily I will get there soon. I have shed 5 kgs from the 15th of march till now. Aur aisa nahi hai ki koi pathhar tode! I am into 50 minutes of yoga and 40 minutes of brisk walking every alternate day. And definitely the biggest fight between all the exercises has been the late night cravings. Every night I feel like hogging maybe because of the boredom and also the stressful situation right now. And as you all might know, I am an emotional eater and that's why I had put on 8 kgs inside the big boss house. Like everyone one I also have #CheatDay and you all won’t believe that on my birthday I ate so much, including chinese food that I was craving for. I dont kill myself by not eating what I want, so I do hog once a week. I actually salute people who are consistent with their diet! I wish I was like that but nevertheless I'm still getting there slowly. Thoda jyada time lagega... maybe one month more then all the people who are disciplined, but well that's me and that’s fine. This is the time where you can actually try to improve yourself physically and mentally as well as also emotionally! Because zindagi ki daud se thoda aaram milega kuch logon ko isse!#MyFitnessStory

A post shared by Arti Singh (@artisingh5) onApr 12, 2020 at 5:26am PDT

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The return of Mahabharat and Ramayan on television has really pleased all the people across the nation. As reported, the views have been record-breaking and unheard of in a long time. And speaking about its return on television is veteran actor Gajendra Chauhan, who essayed the role of Yudhishthir in the show.

Talking to Koimoi, he said, "When the show came on TV for the first time, people used to just watch it. It used to come weekly. Now, 2 episodes are aired daily. Currently, people are watching it to learn something out of it. The show teaches a lot in terms of boundaries and India's culture and tradition, the duties of the king and the citizens." His choices of words suggested he was really elated by the fact that he and the entire nation were getting the opportunity to visit and revisit such a classic piece of work.

That's not all, he also spoke about how Mahabharat taught us to stay at home safe and sound. "In the show, Vidur says a few lines to Yudhisthir that are relatable today. The lines are – Vann ki akhir kaun prachit rehta hai? Wahi prachit rehta hai jo ghar mein hota hai'. Even Mahabharat has given a message to people to stay at home."

And lastly, he also shed light on his experience of visiting a school where the children were being shown an episode of the show. "A few years ago, I went to a school in Delhi and they had a lecture on Mahabharat where they would show 45 mins episode from the show. Every year, they used to have one test based on it. These are good steps taken to make sure our future generation is well aware of India's culture. There are a lot of Indians staying abroad who make sure their kids know about Ramayan and Mahabharat through whatever medium is available to them."

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Dimpy Ganguly welcomed baby no 2 on April 11. She shared the news on social media yesterday and wrote, "Born on the eve of Easter... my little bunny blue, Aryaan, is here (sic)." Rahul Mahajan's ex-wife and the former Bigg Boss contestant relocated to Dubai after marrying businessman Rohit Roy in 2015. The couple's first-born is daughter Reanna who is three. Ganguly also posted a picture of the newborn with Rohit and Reanna.

 

 

 

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My world ❤ï¸Â #blessed

A post shared by Dimpy (@dimpy_g) onApr 12, 2020 at 10:25pm PDT

While announcing her pregnancy on social media, Dimpy Ganguly posted a pretty picture with the bump and wrote, "Being a mother has been one of my biggest achievements and I wear it like a badge because I take my job very seriously. I am giving a shape to the future generation, and I feel responsible for it. My role as a nurturer has paid me back in ways I couldn't even imagine. Destiny has decided to bless me yet again and I couldn't have been more happier."

Dimpy Ganguly has been married to the Dubai-based businessman Rohit Roy for the last four years. For the uninitiated, the duo tied the knot on November 27, 2015. The actress has been a part of many television shows like Rahul Ki Dulhaniya, Bigg Boss 8, Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, and Kahani Chandrakanta Ki.

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While many of us are enjoying the quarantine time with our family, it has somewhere directly impacted the Indian television. There have been no streaming of the latest episodes from our favourite shows on TV anymore. However, this has helped in the comeback of iconic shows like Ramayana and Mahabharat on Doordarshan. The government-run channel may have lost its magic along the way but no amount of time spent on Netflix or Hotstar can replace the nostalgia! Right?

As part of its #StayHomeIndia campaign during the lockdown, Doordarshan is telecasting its popular shows of the 1980s, which include Ramayan, Mahabharat, Circus, Dekh Bhai Dekh and Chanakya. Fans of shows of that era have been active on social media telling DD which other shows it needs to re-run. Here are some of the popular shows that Doordarshan should re-telecast.

Flop Show

The sitcom first aired in 1989. Written and directed by Jaspal Bhatti, who also played as the main character, was a satire on the socio-cultural problems faced by the common man in India at the time. Flop Show was highly popular among the masses, with the satire of late Jaspal Bhatti keeping us entertained.

Bharat Ek Khoj

A stellar series based on Jawaharlal Nehru's book 'The Discovery of India', Bharat Ek Khoj depicted the history of India, from its origin till Independence. Directed by Shyam Benegal, Roshan Seth played Nehru, and also doubled up as the storyteller. Stalwarts like Om Puri, Tom Alter and Sadashiv Amrapurkar were also part of the show.

Surabhi

A hugely popular cultural magazine show of the 90s, Surabhi was delightfully anchored by Renuka Shahane and Siddharth Kak. The show became hugely popular among audiences as it invited viewer participation, and people sent in postcards in big numbers in an era before mobiles and the internet.

Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan

This was the first talk show of Indian television, and arguably one of the most popular ones ever. It was hosted by Tabassum, who was once a popular child star. Her affable demeanour towards the celebrity guests made the show a worthy watch. The format wherein chat was mixed with film scenes was also much-liked by the audiences.

Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi

As one of the first hit sitcoms on Indian television, the show, which aired on Doordarshan in 1984, helped established actors Shafi Inamdar, Satish Shah, Rakesh Bedi and Swaroop Sampat as household names. A trademark of the Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi were the characters played by Satish Shah. In each episode, Shah played a different character who used to be a key element in the plot.

Wagle Ki Duniya

Anjan Srivastav brought issues of the common man into focus through Wagle Ki Duniya, created by noted cartoonist RK Laxman about the issues of the common middle-class Indian man. It starred Anjan Srivastava as a bumbling sales clerk and Bharati Achrekar played his wife. Wagle Ki Duniya had Shah Rukh Khan making a guest appearance in one of the episodes, courtesy his association with the show’s director, Kundan Shah, with whom he later collaborated in Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1994).

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Actors Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have welcomed their first child, a baby girl. Sharing the news with her followers, Smriti took to Instagram. "Our princess has arrived... 15.04.2020," she wrote. Along with it, she also shared a picture that shows the couple holding the newborn in their arms.

 

 

 

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Our princess has arrived 💗 15.04.2020

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onApr 15, 2020 at 9:28am PDT

Reacting to the post, fans and friends showered them with congratulatory wishes.

Actress Dia Mirza commented: "Oh yaaay! so so happy. This is the best news. Can't wait to meet our angel."

Actor Arjun Bijlani wrote: "So happy for you guys. Lots of blessings for our princess. Welcome to the parent gang."

Smriti and Gautam got married in 2017. They have worked together in the TV show "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi".

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Roop Durgapal feels privileged to have a comfortable home and says that people should not complain about being locked indoors. "We should thank our stars every single day as there are so many out there, for whom it is a luxury," she posted on Instagram. The Balika Vadhu actor is spending her time learning Marathi online. 

The note reflects how we all might have taken our privilege for granted over the years and how times can change for everyone in seconds. This is the time to be thankful for all the facilities at our disposal and never take them for granted.

Read it right here:

 

 

 

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I think all of us here are privileged & should thank our stars every single day for having a roof above our heads, while there are so many out there, for whom it is a luxury.. So instead of cribbing all the time about being locked inside our homes, we should be grateful & gotta utilise this time productively. In these tough times, we do need many things to keep us occupied positively, creatively and for our mental sanity..for me its Sketching after Singing and reading ofcourse.. what about you all ? Share what keeps you happy & sane in the comments below😊 💕 #fightingcorona #sketching #roopdurgapal

A post shared by SirfRoop â­Â (@roop_durgapal) onApr 17, 2020 at 4:32am PDT

There's hardly any Bollywood and Television celebrity that hasn't shared his or her thoughts and opinions on the lockdown that has happened in the world. While some have been sharing their workout and cooking videos, some have been sharing their video chats with friends and families, many have shared important notes on how to be thankful that we are with our families safe and sound at our homes, Roop being one of them. 

As stated above, this note by the actress is a must-read and shouldn't be missed so read it if you haven't!

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Not too many actors from Bollywood or even Television have gone through as many personal ups and downs as Chahatt Khanna. She was unfortunately separated from her husband Farhan Mirza in 2018 and was earlier married to Bharat Narsinghani. And now, there were reports that she was in a relationship with singer Mika Singh. However, she revealed she was staying with him only for their single, Quarantine Love.

And now, speaking about her future and present, she spoke to Zoom and talked about her desire to settle down again and why she feels that the term 'Single Mother' is insulting. Speaking about her wish to settle down again, she said, "Of course, I want to settle down again. I would say that family is my priority and I have done my bit of my work. I have achieved success a few times that I wanted. I am doing well in my life, touchwood."

She added, "Right now, by God's grace, I have everything. After a while, I would like to settle down with a good life partner and not think about anyone or anybody." And as stated above, she also shed light on being a single mother and said, "It is a very insulting term, and I realised this much later. There is a term called Milf which these guys, doggers use for women who are elder to them, married, single parent, single mom, divorced and they think people like them are good to have fun with. This is a hard-hitting fact of our society which I just discovered a few days back and I was shattered when I came to know this. This is what happens when she steps out of her marriage."

Chahatt keeps sharing her pictures and videos on her social media account and the actress is truly beautiful. We wish her all the best for her future and we hope we all can learn from what she said!

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Actors and celebrities have been busy honing new skills during the lockdown, and television actress Karishma Tanna is no different. She has aced the complicated inversion pose of yoga, going by her new social media post. In a photograph shared on Instagram, Karishma can be seen in hot pants and a sports bra pulling off the pose with ease. "Sometimes you have to let life turn you upside down, so u can learn how to live right side up!" she captioned the image.

 

 

 

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Sometimes you have to let life turn you upside down, so u can learn how to live right side up! • . #thoughts #yogi #mood #intezaar #quarantine

A post shared by Karishma Tanna (@karishmaktanna) onApr 20, 2020 at 6:45am PDT

Karishma's efforts left her friends stunned, who rooted for her at the comment section. Actress Lauren Gottlieb wrote: "Get it girl". Actress Amruta Khanvilkar said: "Whoaaaaaaaaa so good". While Aamna Sharif mentioned: "Wowww"

The pose was recently tried by Jawaani Jaaneman actress Alaya F. She got the complicated pose right after a few failed attempts, she informed, adding that she was inspired by Jacqueline Fenrnandez and celebrity fitness trainer Kuldeep Shashi.

On the work front, Karishma is currently the part of the action reality show "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 10" (KKK 10).

The new season is shot in Bulgarian landscapes with actors Ada Khan, Amruta Khanvilkar Karan Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar and Rani Chatterjee, along with comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka and choreographer Dharmesh Yelande.

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Is there any greater form of justice than vigilante justice? This genre has found great success both in India and abroad, but we seldom saw it on television. But it seems we are all set to see one in the form of Hero- Gayab Mode On, the new show that's all set to arrive on Sony SAB.

The teaser reminds you of all the films where the protagonist made invisibility his strength and fought his enemies, of course, the most iconic and memorable one being Anil Kapoor's Mr. India. And the teaser will surely leave you excited.

Have a look right here:

This fantasy fiction will be a significant addition to an already illustrious set of fantasy characters such as Baalveer and Aladdin that have been entertaining the viewers of the channel.

Committed to providing values-driven light-hearted entertainment that is cherished by the entire family, Sony SAB is all set to widen its slate of shows with this latest brand-new fantasy offering.

Stay tuned to Sony SAB to catch Hero in action!

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Television actress Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya is over the moon as she successfully baked her favourite carrot cake in the first attempt.

Divyanka, who is popular for her role in the show "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein", took to Instagram to share two photographs of her perfectly made cake. She captioned: "After very long hubby and I have same content to post! Successfully baked my favourite #CarrotCake in first attempt! Apne haantho ko choom loon...Aisa bana hai! (Would kiss my hands... it's made so good)"

 

 

 

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After very long hubby and I have same content to post! Successfully baked my favourite #CarrotCake in first attempt! Apne haantho ko choom loon...Aisa bana hai!😜

A post shared by Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya (@divyankatripathidahiya) onApr 25, 2020 at 3:24pm PDT

Ekta Kapoor commented on the post, asking, "Hummmare liye kaun banayegaaaa? (Who will bake for us?). Ankita Bhargava Patel wrote, "Woahhhhhh I have been meaning to make one since weeks now.... it looks amazing!!!"

Neena Kulkarni commented: Looks yummy!, while Teejay Sidhu wrote: Looks delicious!

Just recently, Divyanka was seen giving a haircut to her husband Vivek Dahiya. She had shared the video on Instagram, where Vivek could be seen sitting on a chair and Divyanka standing with a pair of scissors in her hand.

Divyanka and Vivek met for the first time on the sets of "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein" and, after several months of dating, got married in 2016.

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There cannot be a greater feeling for any actor when he's known by the name of the characters he has essayed on the big screen or even the small screen. If Amjad Khan was Gabbar Singh, Amrish Puri was Mogambo, Shah Rukh Khan was Raj and Rahul, Feroz Khan was Arjun. Yes, the Arjun from Mahabharat.

Such was the popularity of the role and such was the impact on people that he was rechristened as Arjun Feroz Khan. You may know him as the villain from a lot of Bollywood films of the 90s but it was this iconic television show that shaped his career and made him a household name. Speaking to Hindustan Times about being selected for the show and how it made history, he spilled the beans on everything.

He said, "It's a proud moment to watch Mahabharat with the present generation. It's a good opportunity for them to know more about their culture. It was a game-changer for Indian television. It impacted people's lives. Due to the lockdown, everyone is at home and they're glued to their television sets to watch epics like Mahabharat and Ramayan. Even my grandchildren are watching it and they're amused to see me shooting arrows."

History isn't made easily so expectedly, getting such a fascinating role wasn't easy for the actor either. He recalls the day when he went for the audition. "I went in and saw actors like Deepak Parashar, Raj Babbar and Govinda, among others there. The auditions for Mahabharat were going on and Govinda told me to give it a shot. I was given two pages of dialogues in Hindi. I told him to read out the lines in Hindi so that I could rewrite them in English."

He added, "A week after when I didn't get a call back, I went to his office. I was asked to wear my costumes and a moustache. I went up to Chopra Saab's cabin in the first floor and he was sitting their along with our writers, Dr Rahi Masoom Raza and Pandit Narendra Sharma and they told me that I've been locked to play Arjun." And as they say, the rest is history! He was addressed as Arjun by everyone, even his mother. What greater validation can an actor ask for?

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Rishi Kapoor's sudden death has sent the Bollywood industry and his friends and family into a shock. With legendary actor Irrfan Khan passing away just a day before Rishi Kapoor, it's naturally tough for the masses to cope up with the loss of not one but two legendary actors.

While most actors took to their social media to express their grief over the loss of Mr. Kapoor, actress Gauahar Khan penned down a special note for him on her Instagram. The post reads, #Rishi Ji, I can't even begin to tell anyone what the great Rishi Kapoor was to me! He has such a huge impact on me, not just as an actor/ star but also as the first personal interaction I had with him; Rocket Singh was his sons film but at the trial, Rishi Ji stood for 20 minutes and spoke about my performance in detail with everyone including Yash Chopra Ji! As a debutante, that meant the world to me! His praise was priceless for me, to believe in myself! His passing is the greatest loss! He was the ONLY star, and that is why I love Ranbir so much for the actor that he is! He has learnt from the best. #Rishi Ji I'm sure the skies needed the brightest star to shine up there! #HeartBroken #ShineOn #InPeace.

Gauahar Khan who was last seen in The Office will soon be announcing two big projects when the outbreak eases out and things go back to normalcy.

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Amitabh Bachchan has shot for the upcoming season 12 of "Kaun Banega Crorepati" from the confines of home, in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The new season of the popular quiz show is also set to go digital with the entire selection process.

Filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari remotely directed the registration promo featuring Big, where the actor invites KBC aspirants. "Har cheez ko break lag sakta hai, sapno ko nahi (everything can take a break, but not dreams)," he announces.

"Each year, when we start deliberating about KBC, we go through various insights that may trigger an impactful narrative. This time, however, the very environment that we are in, sets the context of the film," said Tiwari.

"KBC is not just a game/quiz show for people. It's more than that. It's an opportunity to realise one's dreams. One doesn't stop dreaming given the adversity. In fact, the dreams only become more significant, and that was the trigger for this film. Shooting this film was a challenge, though. First, I shot a scratch film with myself and shared it with Mr. Bachchan, for him to get an idea about my vision. After which, Mr. Bachchan shot the entire film at his own home, all by himself. I hope this campaign strikes a chord with the audience and they participate wholeheartedly," he added.

Registrations for the new season will start from May 9.

"We are certainly excited to announce the 12th season of our iconic show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'. And for the first time in the history of KBC, the entire screening and selection will be managed digitally," said Amit Raisinghani, Head, business planning and communication, Sony Entertainment Television.

The show will be produced by StudioNEXT and the selection process will be conducted digitally, through SonyLIV.

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StarPlus is all set to enthral audiences with the legendary show – Ramayan. Written, produced and directed by Ramanand Sagar, Ramayan, first aired in 1987 and acquired a cult status over the years. The show boasts of a talented ensemble comprising of Arun Govil as Lord Rama, Dipika Chikhlia Topiwala as Goddess Sita and Sunil Lahri as Lakshman.

It also starred veteran actors Lalita Pawar as Manthara, Arvind Trivedi as Ravana and Dara Singh as Hanuman. The popular mythological show has successfully garnered record-breaking viewership even today due to its engaging and simple narrative which has earned a memorable place in the audience's minds.

Dipika Chikhlia who essayed the role of Sita in Ramayan said, "The role of Sita has been one of the most memorable moments in my life. I have received much love and affection over the years from audiences not only in India but also overseas. With the show now being telecast on StarPlus, viewers will once again to get relive the epic mythological tale."

Sunil Lahri who is known for his portrayal of Laxman said, "Ramayan has received adulation from audiences across age groups. This narrative has engaged people all over with its entertaining narrative and life lessons making it one of the best offerings on Indian television. It's a happy moment for all of us as the show will now be telecast on StarPlus for entertaining viewers once again."

Tune in to the epic mythological tale of Ramayan at 7.30 pm everyday only on StarPlus!

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Actress Karishma Tanna, who got operated for an ingrown nail amid the nationwide lockdown, did the inverted yoga pose with her injured foot. Karishma took to Instagram, where she shared a photograph of herself doing the complicated yoga pose, but this time taking the help of a wall.

 

 

 

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Can’t stop Won’t stop ✋ #nopainnogain #strength #yogapractice #quarantine

A post shared by Karishma Tanna (@karishmaktanna) onMay 3, 2020 at 4:52am PDT

"Can't stop Won't stop #nopainnogain #strength#yogapractice #quarantine," she wrote alongside the image, which currently has over 176K likes on the photo-sharing website.

She later took to Instagram Stories, where she shared a photograph that shows her baking muffins.

She wrote on the image: "Trying to bake banana muffin... Though I am one short. Hehe."

Earlier, Karishma, who is known for her roles in TV shows like "Naagin", "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi", "Naagarjuna: Ek Yodha" and "Qayamat Ki Raat", took to Instagram Stories and shared a video of herself and the doctor bandaging her toe.

On the work front, she is currently part of the action reality show "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 10" (KKK 10), which has been shot in Bulgaria.

The show also features actors Ada Khan, Amruta Khanvilkar Karan Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar and Rani Chatterjee, along with comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka and choreographer Dharmesh Yelande.

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TV stars Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have named their newborn daughter Anayka. On Tuesday, Smriti took to Instagram and shared the "first family picture", also revealing her baby's name. "Anayka...#family#FirstFamilyPic#DaddysGirl," she wrote on Instagram. Smriti and her husband Gautam welcomed their first child on April 15. The couple met on the sets of the TV show "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi".

 

 

 

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Anayka ❤ï¸ÂðŸ§¿ #family #FirstFamilyPic #DaddysGirl

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:26am PDT

A few days ago, Smriti posted her before and after childbirth pictures on social media, leaving everyone stunned with the loss of her pregnancy weight so quickly. "Amazed at what the human body can do!! 1st pic was taken one week before I gave birth. Second pic, a week after I gave birth. My inbox is flooded with questions from new moms and moms-to-be. I'll try and make a video soon answering all of them. Thank you for so much love and blessings for our little one #postpartum#postpartumtransformation#newmom #mombod," she had shared.

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Amitabh Bachchan has started shooting for the upcoming season of the popular quiz show "Kaun Banega Crorepati" (KBC) amid the COVID-19 lockdown, and from his latest blog post it seems like the actor is apprehensive about being judged for breaking social distancing rules. He seems defensive in the post, insisting that the shoot was done with essential precautionary measures.

"So yes I worked .. got a problem with that .. keep it to yourself then .. damned if you pour it out here in this locked in condition .. sufficient precaution as much that could be taken was taken .. and what had been scheduled for 2 days , was completed in one day .. starting 6pm .. ending a short while NOW … !!" wrote Amitabh Bachchan in his blog.

Viewers are wondering how the quiz show would be shot this year owing to the current restrictions including social distancing and the lockdown. Talking about the same, Big B mentioned in his blog: "Personal gratifications to the many that ask .. and then the KBC pile of several.. in all about 10 to 12 videos and then hours of audio recordings .. also for the same , KBC .. and the speculation as to how they shall conduct it .. there have been no definite answers for that .. but the authority hopes well and long .. so .."

The 77-year-old actor has also been suffering from a Hamstring pain. "Just back from work .. hamstring be damned .. social messaging videos .. acknowledging the 'angels' videos .. giving commendation to them that work so we exist .. and the invitations to the new season of KBC .. The show goes on ..heavy in heart , to all," Big B tweeted early on Wednesday.

Like everyone else, he is also concerned about the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Of one there is little doubt .. the debate on the outcome of this pandemic .. hesitation .. apprehension .. fear or recurrence .. strain of the conducting of the time of release .. and so much more .."

"How long then shall it hold the barrel .. what shall be the outcome when the barrel is held .. what alternatives shall prevail and what in God's name shall the future hold for us all. The World is all ‘shook up' .. as Elvis would say .. and would never be the same in the respects of community and reaction," he wrote.

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It's the time to rejoice for Kaun Banega Crorepati fans. The makers of the decade-old quiz show have finally revealed the registration date for the new season. The fresh season is expected to air in a shortly from now.

Kaun Banega Crorepati, is a show that most of us have grown up with and have participated in, sitting comfortably at our homes, yet feeling the same complex set of emotions as the participants on the coveted Hot Seat. We have all felt the adrenaline rush in this quest of knowledge, to deduce the answers to questions that can take one from being a nobody to a somebody.

KBC has been synonymous with knowledge and has constantly provided a platform to millions in realizing their dreams. From the civil services aspirant Harshvardhan Navathe, the very first Crorepati, to a mid-day meal cook Babita Tade, KBC has set an example for people to believe in themselves and achieve big in life.

9th May will see Mr. Bachchan asking the very first KBC Registration question at 9:00PM on Sony Entertainment Television. This will continue until 22nd May. There will be a new question presented by Mr. Bachchan every night. All one has to do is nswer these questions correctly via SMS or through SonyLIV.

Given the current times, while one ponders how to get through the day, KBC has come as an answer to use all your time productively, while at home. While we may be under a lockdown, knowledge knows no bounds, and it’s always good to value the power of knowledge and put it to good use.

Get ready to let knowledge fulfil your dreams with Kaun Banega Crorepati, starting 9th May at 9:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television

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Having accepted a settlement from the tobacco firm, the Philippines Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Department of Justice on October 2 dropped three tax evasion cases against Mighty Corp.

US business associations say the Philippines' proposed sugar-sweetened beverage tax may infringe World Trade Organization rules and would dent the country's competitiveness.

Representational picture

Attention single women! Your singledom has an amazing benefit: better, mindblowing orgasms! According to a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Turku in Finland, who studied 2,000 premenopausal Finnish women for seven years, found that those who had stayed in the same monogamous relationship during the study period experienced the highest decrease in sexual drive.

However, the decrease in sexual desire was lower for women, who had found a new partner over the study duration. The ability to have an orgasm improved across all groups, with single women experiencing the greatest improvement, during the 7 year follow-up.

Women with a new partner experienced higher improvement in orgasmic ability when compared to women who had been in the same relationship over the entire period of observation. The team discovered that women's ability to orgasm remained the most stable over the seven-year period, while sexual satisfaction varied widely.

The research team utilised a the Female Sexual Function Index -- a short questionnaire that measures specific areas of sexual functioning in women, such as sexual arousal, orgasm, sexual satisfaction, and the presence of pain during intercourse -- to look at the evolution of female sexual desire over a period of seven years, Medicalnewstoday.com reported. Analyses were conducted separately for women in different relationship constellations.

The team then concluded that, while long-term relationships may offer many psychological benefits but staying in a monogamous relationship for long may reduce a woman's sexual desire.
- With inputs from agencies

Illustration/Uday Mohite

I am looking for a sapiosexual guy." That's the line, which ran below the photograph of a gorgeous woman, on writer Jaidev Hemmady's Tinder page. Chancing upon it a few months ago, Hemmady had two options - either swipe left or right. He chose the latter. Why? "I had never heard the word before. It immediately aroused my curiosity," the 35-year-old recalls. Thinking of it now, Hemmady tells us it was probably his most foolish decision ever. "When we did begin to converse, I asked her what she meant by sapiosexual," he says. She said it was "fascination for intellectual men". "So, would she choose an average-looking man with the IQ of a rocket scientist?" To his surprise, the girl typed in a 'NO'. "He has to be both, handsome and smart," she insisted.

One possible reason for this artifice in vocabulary could be the nature of online dating. Here, as everywhere else, first impressions matter. Only last week, IllicitEncounters.com, UK's leading dating website for married people, released a survey after analysing four lakh profiles, where it threw a few words of caution when describing oneself on dating apps. While words like 'confident' and 'honest' earned a good score, 'shy' and 'happy' were major put-offs. With technical details playing a key role, relationship coaches are now being roped in to add finesse to people's dating profiles. When we enquired, most coaches claimed that 50 per cent of their clients were currently investing in online image building. The rules may differ for each, but if you want to be a smooth player in the swipe game, here's what you could do.

Ritesh Uttamchandani

Treat profile pic with kindness
Some time ago, freelance photographer Ritesh Uttamchandani was asked if he was interested in clicking profile shots for dating apps. "Some of the photos you see on these apps are horrendous, boring and repetitive," he rues. Uttamchandani, who joined a few dating apps out of sheer curiosity, says that because of the nature of his job, it wasn't hard for him to see through the sham behind the lens. According to him, there are four kinds of set images common to most profiles - the side profile, the exotic destination shot, the selfie and one that flashes a facial asset. Of the four, he advises avoiding the selfies. "Pout selfies are the worst."

If Uttamchandani is thinking aesthetics, London-based Dr Siva, who is a physician and relationship expert and runs drsivacoaching.com, says that the profile picture also reflects how serious you are about the dating game. "Larger women should not be ashamed of their body type. Men like women who are comfortable in their own skin," claims Dr Siva.

Mumbai-based Shiva, the head coach of Real Man Academy, which runs dating and seduction workshops, advises following the ABS rule. A implies having pictures that show you lead an 'active' lifestyle. B means portraying a 'bold' body language. (Example: no crossed legs). S is showing off your 'social' circle. "If there are women in your photograph, it's good, because it shows they are comfortable with you."

Nidhi Sharma

Be quirky with your bio
"Be original when describing oneself," says Nidhi Sharma (47), personal branding coach at Bon Impressions in Mumbai. "Never put up an inspirational quote in your bio. It would be stupid to believe that someone is going to date the person who scripted that quote," she says. Instead, she suggests writing something that reflects your attitude towards life. Elizabeth Sullivan, a dating coach, who runs Lovementor.com in London, advises using positive language to describe oneself. "Add some humour.

But, don't force it because people can see through it." Hemmady says, "I prefer women who don't shy away from talking about their food adventures."

Dr Siva

After you've been swiped right
According to Nidhi, a lot of men come across as being very forceful and persistent, once they've got a right-swipe from someone they have taken a liking to. "Begin with a 'hello, how are you?' even if that means sounding a tad bit formal. Let the rapport develop before getting personal," she suggests.

Also, when your 'prospective date' messages, do not respond immediately, says Shiva. "It shows you have lots of free time. At a subtle level it communicates that she/he is the only person who is texting you."

Being online all the time can also be a turn-off. "That shows you don't have much going on in your life. Especially on weekends, be completely offline. As the saying goes, fake it till you make it," Shiva says. Online dating is just a tiny window to your world. "It's a practising tool, until that door really opens," Sullivan says.

Emmanuel Macron (right) and wife Brigitte Trogneux acknowledge the audience at an event in Paris in April. Pic/AFP

She's been called a Menopausal Barbie and France's First Grandmother, he's been passed off as gay as it's inconceivable for many how a straight 39-year-old Emmanuel Macron would be married to 64-year-old Brigitte Trogneux. In a different continent, another president is 24 years older than his wife Melania, but critics are yet to look past Donald Trump's mop of blonde-orange hair, and logic-defying views. Why?

Age does matter… for women
"We are still very ageist as a society, all over the world. While an older woman is called a cougar, there is no such term for an older man," says Shrishti Arya, producer of romance TV series Kehta Hai Dil Jee Le Zara (2014) in which Sangeeta Ghosh's Saanchi was seven years older than Ruslaan Mumtaz's Dhruv, and that formed the main conflict. Eventually, the couple not only married but also became happy parents. Of course, as per desi heroine pre-requisites, Saanchi, while refreshingly cheerful and mature, was painted in pure white strokes of a physically and morally beautiful beti, unmarried at 34 mainly due to familial responsibilities. Trogneux on the other hand, was married when she first met the 15-year-old Macron at the age of 40. Easier to blame her.

Ageism also comes from our conditioning, according to clinical psychologist and cognitive behaviour therapist Laura Vaz. In earlier times, it was pragmatic for the man to be older since he was the bread-winner, and the woman was second fiddle. She needed an older spouse to 'look up to'. That has changed with women demanding dignity for their roles as homemakers and fighting for equal rights at work… "but the cultural belief has stuck," she says.

The Graduate created a social revolution in cinema in the late 1960s

The cougar on celluloid
Popular culture doesn't make things easier. Starting from the ageing actress obsessed with a younger opportunistic man in Sunset Boulevard (1950) to the iconic seductress, Mrs Robinson, who lures the apparently hapless Ben in The Graduate (1967), to our own BA Pass (2012) with its poster featuring the much-married heroine sporting a bra and horrors, smoking, while a teenage boy lounges in her bed — the older woman is usually seen as a sexual predator. As clinical psychotherapist Alaokika Bharwani puts it, "If the man is over 10 years younger, it's assumed that it must be a sexual relationship. 'Companionship' is never taken into account, and it's sad because no one speaks of her desperation for an emotional connect." Vaz talks of how this narrow mindset leads to assumptions around the relationship. "That's how stories get created that something must be wrong with the man; maybe, he's looking for a mother figure, or perhaps she pays his bills," she says.

What does she want?
Bharwani gives a more realistic idea of what an older woman possibly seeks in her relationships. "A woman above 40 is mostly financially stable and doesn't 'need' a man to provide for her. She's perhaps been married, has children, and is emotionally mature. She mostly wants companionship to feel invigorated, which doesn't come her way from men her age. So, she enjoys the playfulness of a younger man," she says. As for the younger man, being with an older woman is often relieving since she is past the age of unreal romantic expectations, and doesn't want him to 'complete' her. He can be himself.

Alaokika Bharwani

But relationships are difficult to sustain especially if the age difference is between his 20s and her 30s. As Vaz points out from the cases she has dealt with, usually in a May-December relationship, it is the man who leaves and the woman ends up feeling hurt and used. Vaz adds that there could be an element of unpleasantness peculiar to this sort of relationship. "If the man isn't as financially stable, and she sort of takes care of him, the woman seldom has a problem but the man could feel emasculated," says Bharwani, adding that the biggest undoing for such couples is judgement.

Vaz cites the example of a couple where the woman was 64 years, while the man was 31. In therapy, she made it clear that they had to decide if they were in it for the long haul. "He was as old as her son, and people would look down on them, isolate them and yet not leave them in peace. I said this was what they were getting into. My sessions would help them get stronger, but they had to know that the dice would be stacked against them." Despite being in love, the couple broke up.

Meanwhile, since their coming out as a May-weds-December couple, the Macrons have faced criticism head-on; that he was elected as President is also a positive sign. Back home too, Vaz and Bharwani feel millennials are less judgemental and accepting of such relationships without going into debunked Freudian explanations. Both feel that we are becoming a more civilised society.

Here's to love and companionship for older women without the unfair labels. Or maybe create a male counterpart. Trump effect, anyone?

It's doesn't get bigger than this! Youtube has a huge lineup of celebrities from various fields for their upcoming YouTube Virtual Graduation Ceremony 2020. The ceremony would be headlined like former President Of The United States, Barack Obama, and First Lady Michelle Obama. Amongst the notable names includes singer Lady Gaga, world-famous band BTS.

The Dear Class of 2020 will be mixed with commencement speeches and musical performances. "I’ve always loved joining commencements––the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Even if we can’t get together in person this year, Michelle and I are excited to celebrate the nationwide Class of 2020 and recognize this milestone with you and your loved ones," Barack Obama wrote in his tweet on May 5.

BTS has had a global impact with their music. The group, composed of members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, recipients of the Order of Cultural Merit in South Korea, and were keynote speakers at United Nations in 2018. Singing in their native language Korean, the septet has become the world's biggest boyband. Their latest album 'Map Of The Soul: 7' has become No. 1 in 21 countries.

Being in the pop scene for more than a decade, Lady Gaga changed the face of pop music and re-introduced artistic ways to evolve music. In today's times, she is considered one of the most impactful musicians of all time.

Here's a list of participants:

Featuring

President Barack Obama

Michelle Obama

BTS

Lady Gaga

Sec. Robert M. Gates

Sundar Pichai

Sec. Condoleezza Rice

Malala Yousafzai

Special Appearances by

asapSCIENCE

Alicia Keys

Chloe x Halle

Kelly Rowland

Kerry Washington

The Try Guys

Zendaya

Mr Kate

Dude Perfect

Jackie Aina

Zane Hijazi

Dear Class of 2020 premieres on June 6.

ALSO READ: BTS members V and Jungkook make carnations on Parents' Day, perform 'Never Not' by Lauv during live stream

A week ago, actor Irrfan Khan breathed his last after his prolonged battle with neuroendocrine tumour. Tributes have been pouring in for the late actor. Many had the opportunity to work with him while several filmmakers wished they had a chance! Reminiscing about becoming friends with Irrfan, filmmaker Anand Gandhi recently spoke about the possibility of working with him for a film based on pandemic.

The filmmaker recently revealed that he met Irrfan Khan around the release of Maqbool. They drove to Pune once and became friends over the years. They had explored the possibility of him starring in Tumbbad and it was before the final script and schedule changes were made. He said that Irrfan Khan could also have starred in the pandemic film Emergence that he had been working on for years.

Revealing more about Emergence, Anand said that he had been developing the script for five years. It tells the story of five women scientists fighting the contagion and are superheroes in their own way. With Emergence, he was taking the parasite-host relationship further. The script eerily represents the current scenario of the world. Tentatively titled 2020 at the time, he said that it had all the elements of storage crisis for scientific data, rightwing politics, among other things.

His idea is to make the film the most researched one on the pandemic. The filmmaker plans to take the film on the floor by next year. He said that they are collaborating with an American studio and it will be a big-budget project.

ALSO READ: Irrfan Khan’s son Babil shares an unseen video of his father enjoying a dip in ice-cold water

Amitabh Bachchan was recently called out for breaking social distancing rules as he started to shoot for season 12 of Kaun Banega Crorepati amid the Coronavirus lockdown. The promo recently came out and after the backlash, Amitabh Bachchan justified his reasons through his blog post yesterday. He insisted that all the precautionary measures were taken to shoot the promo and that they did a two-day shoot in just a day. He asked people to keep their problems to themselves in the blog post.

It read, “So yes I worked .. got a problem with that .. keep it to yourself then .. damned if you pour it out here in this locked in condition .. sufficient precaution as much that could be taken was taken .. and what had been scheduled for 2 days, was completed in one day .. starting 6pm .. ending a short while NOW !! Personal gratifications to the many that ask .. and then the KBC pile of several.. in all about 10 to 12 videos and then hours of audio recordings .. also for the same , KBC .. and the speculation as to how they shall conduct it .. there have been no definite answers for that .. but the authority hopes well and long ..”

The registrations promo was shot at his house with Nitesh Tiwari as the director.

Also Read: Navya Naveli graduates at Jalsa, Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan are super proud

StarPlus, the country’s leading general entertainment channel StarPlus is entertaining viewers with the legendary show – Ramayan. Written, produced and directed by Ramanand Sagar, Ramayan, first aired in 1987 and acquired a cult status over the years. The show boasts of a talented ensemble comprising of Arun Govil as Lord Rama, Dipika Chikhlia Topiwala as Goddess Sita and Sunil Lahri as Lakshman. It also starred veteran actors Lalita Pawar as Manthara, Arvind Trivedi as Ravana and Dara Singh as Hanuman. Not many people are aware that the show’s maker Ramanand Sagar was destined to make this mythological saga into a classic rendition for television.

There is an interesting story that has been shared by Ramanand Sagar’s son Prem Sagar in the book that he has written on his father’s life - An Epic Life: Ramanand Sagar: From Barsaat to Ramayan. In 1942, when Ramanand was 25 years old a Kashmiri mystic, Pandit Nityanandji had predicted that Ramayan would be retold by Ramanand Sagar. In 1976, noted film producer, Mr Mohla, on observing Ramanand’s astrological chart, had said that Ramanand Sagar would cause a spiritual awakening globally through the medium of cinema. Going forward, Ramanand Sagar ensured that this vision turned into reality and the rest is history!

Ramayan created waves across the world with its soulful narrative. The divine tale of how good triumphs over evil gladdened hearts of every viewer. Streets would be deserted on Sunday mornings as people stayed glued to their television sets as Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan described the tale of Lord Ram in vivid detail.

ALSO READ: Ramayan’s Sita denies asking for Padma Award from government

When the lockdown was announced, singer Sonu Nigam was in Dubai. The singer said that he has no plans to return to Mumbai anytime soon even as the government has started flight services to get back Indians who are stranded abroad. 

Talking to a daily, Sonu said that even if he comes to India, he will be quarantined for 14 days. The singer is currently busy with charity work and feels that it does not make sense to come back and get quarantined.

Sonu said that he is in the process of shifting to a new house in Dubai. He also said that Dubai has been his second home for quite some time now. Sonu also has his studio set over there and his family has also moved there. His son Nevaan is currently studying in Dubai and so he will be constantly shuttling between Mumbai and Dubai. 

ALSO READ: Sonu Nigam twists his Main Hoon Na title track amid Coronavirus pandemic, and it is hilarious

<strong>EXPECTATIONS</strong> One expects situational soundtrack for <em>Panga</em>, considering the fact that it is a slice of life film with sports as the core theme. Though Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Javed Akhtar come together to create half a dozen songs for the film, one doesn't quite expect a chartbuster outing here since there has hardly been any promotion either for the music as the focus has been on the film. <img class="aligncenter wp-image-1068031 size-full" title="Music Review: Panga" src="https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Music-Review-Panga.jpg" alt="Music Review: Panga" width="720" height="450" /> <strong>MUSIC</strong> Harshdeep Kaur, Divya Kumar and Siddharth Mahadevan come together to create the title song <strong><em>'Panga'</em></strong> which has a good hook to it. A feel good number with a catchy rhythm, this one has certain nicety to it, courtesy the manner in which the singers come together to croon this one. This one has an anthem feel to it and could have covered some distance with good promotion. Jassie Gill, the leading man of <em>Panga</em>, takes charge as a singer for <strong><em>'Dil Ne Kaha</em></strong>', which has the kind of sound that one associates with Salman Khan's Dabangg franchise. Reminding one of <strong><em>'Tere Mast</em></strong> <strong><em>Mast Do Nain'</em></strong> with a bit of 'Brathless' feel to it in the manner in which it begins, <strong><em>'Dil Ne Kaha'</em></strong> is a romantic track that comes in two versions with Jassie Gill and then Shahid Mallya taking charge. Asees Kaur is the common factor in both the songs and she does well as she has been over a period of time now. Next to arrive is <strong><em>'Bibby Song'</em></strong> and this one tries to be all funny. However, at best this one is a situational track with no real appeal outside the film. Annu Kapoor comes behind the mike for this one alongside Sherry and you don't really get hooked on it. As a matter of fact you move on to the next in line soon enough to check out what rest of the soundtrack has to offer. Shankar Mahadevan makes a belated entry as a singer with <strong><em>'Jugnu'</em></strong> and he has Sunny for company. Though he does well as a singer all over again due to his characteristic voice, overall the music - with a Sufi touch to it - stays on to be situational at best. A montage number which is about dreams and aspirations, it goes with the theme of the film but that's about it. Last to arrive is <strong><em>'Wahi Hai Raste'</em></strong> which has Mohan Kannan taking charge. This one brings with it the mood and feel which one associates with the kind that was heard in the non-mainstream films of the 70s. A little later in the album, Asees Kaur's voice is heard. With Bengali folk music base to it, <strong><em>'Wahi Hai</em></strong> <strong><em>Raste'</em></strong> is just about okay and doesn't quite warrant repeat hearing. <strong>OVERALL</strong> The music of <em>Panga</em> is largely situational with a couple of songs at the beginning making some sort of an impression. <strong>OUR PICK(S)</strong> <em>'Panga', 'Dil Ne Kaha'</em>

<strong>EXPECTATIONS</strong> As is the current trend with majority of Bollywood flicks, soundtrack of <em>Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan</em> too has released alongside the arrival of the film in theatres. Though an early release of the jukebox can well help gain added popularity in days preceding to the film's release, one wonders if this trend would reverse in time to come. Moreover, yet again there are three recreated songs in this album which has over half a dozen numbers in there. <img class="aligncenter wp-image-1077562 size-full" title="Music Review: Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan" src="https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Music-Review-Shubh-Mangal-Zyada-Saavdhan.jpg" alt="Music Review: Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan" width="720" height="450" /> <strong>MUSIC</strong> Yo Yo Honey Singh (composer), Kinder Deol (lyricist) and singer J-Star's <strong><em>'Gabru'</em> </strong>from the album International Villager is recreated by, who else but, Tanishk Bagchi as <strong><em>'Pyaar Tenu Karda Gabru'</em></strong>. A fun track all the way which is already quite popular, especially up North, this one is a celebratory outing with newer lyrics by Vayu. Singer Romy does quite well in rendering this hard-core Punjabi number that is set to be a chartbuster all over again. Tanishk - Vayu come together to create number of songs in <em>Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan</em> and one of their first collaborations is <strong><em>'Mere Liye Tum Kaafi Ho'</em></strong>. Ayushmann Khurranna brings himself behind the mike for this Vayu written number and his voice actually comes across as quite different in here. A decent track which is easy on ears, it comes across as a situational number at best as it doesn't really have that punch in there to emerge as a chartbuster. Second recreated song in the album is <strong><em>'Arey Pyaar Kar Le'</em></strong> which is a take-off on Bappi Lahiri and Anjaan's <strong><em>'Yaar Bina Chain Kaha Re'</em></strong> from Anil Kapoor and Amrita Singh's <em>Saheb</em>. A good recreation by Tanishk Bagchi and Vayu, this one has Bappi Lahiri's voice been retained which actually works tremendously for the song. While Ayushmann Khurranna chips in as well, the real fun is to listen to Bappi Lahiri due to his unique vocals. A good take on 80s nostalgia. It's time for the Kakkar family to come together for <strong><em>'Ooh La La'</em></strong>. While Tony Kakkar writes and composes this one (along with Tanishk Bagchi), his sisters Sonu Kakkar and Neha Kakkar take centre-stage to let their hair down. A fun number all the way, its promotion surprisingly kick-started quite late in the film's campaign and it could well have been beneficial had this been earlier. Not that the song is a huge chartbuster in the making but still it has the kind of energy in there that would have pepped the film even further. Mika steps in soon after for Tanishk - Vayu created <strong><em>'Aisi Taisi'</em>.</strong> Though the fun element is intact this time around as well, as has been the case with most of the songs heard before, at the end of the day it only fits in the needs of being a situational outing. Same is the case with <strong><em>'Raakh'</em></strong> which is actually a melancholic outing and arrives out of nowhere. Though Arijit has sung for this Tanishk - Vayu creation, the punch is not really there and you don't quite crave to return and give this one a repeat hearing. There is some fun that comes to the proceedings though Anuradha Paudwal and Mohammad Aziz's <strong><em>‘Kya Karthe The Saajna’</em></strong> from Anand-Milind's <strong><em>'Lal Dupatta Malmal Ka'</em></strong> is sampled for <strong><em>'Kya Karte Thay'</em></strong> by Tanishk Bagchi and Vayu. Though Zara Khan tries to bring in something quirky to the proceedings, the fun element actually comes in when the original makes an appearance. <strong>OVERALL</strong> The music of <em>Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan</em> turns out to be decent enough with a couple of songs making an impression, albeit both being recreations. Somehow the new songs that have been created for the film don't quite cover the distance and had there been a chartbuster ortwo there, it would have only helped the soundtrack further. <strong>OUR PICK(S)</strong> <em>‘Pyaar Tenu Karda Gabru’, ‘Arey Pyaar Kar Le’, ‘Ooh La La’</em>

14/02/2020

21/02/2020

On the occasion of Bengali New Year which is also celebrated as Pahela Baishakh (first day of Bengali Calendar), Trinamool Congress MPs Nusrat Jahan and Mimi Chakraborty took to Instagram to wish their fans on the auspicious day.

 

 

 

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Shubho Nababorsha to all... May we fight this situation of crisis and move towards a brighter day..!! Shokol ke amar subhechcha 🙏🏻

A post shared by Nusrat (@nusratchirps) onApr 13, 2020 at 10:53pm PDT

Basirhat MP Nusrat Jahan shared a series of pictures where she can be seen in traditional attires as she wished her followers a 'Happy New Year' to all. While extending her wishes, Nusrat urged her fans to fight the coronavirus crisis and move towards a brighter day..!!

 

 

 

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শà§Âভ নববরà§Âষà§Â‡ পà§Âরà§Â€তি à¦Â“ শà§Âভà§Â‡à¦Âšà§Âà¦Â›া, বাড়িতà§Â‡ থাà¦Â•à§Âন- সà§Âসà§Âথ থাà¦Â•à§Âন ।

A post shared by Mimi (@mimichakraborty) onApr 14, 2020 at 12:57am PDT

On the other hand, Jadavpur MP Mimi Chakraborty shared a beautiful picture where she can be seen welcoming the new year in a traditional way. While wishing people a happy new year, Mimi requested her followers to stay home and stay healthy in order to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

 

 

 

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Waiting forðŸ¤Â”ðŸ¤Â”ðŸ¤Â” umm ohh yes bengali new year.. And plansðŸ¤Â”ðŸ¤Â”ðŸ¤Â”??ummm âž¡ï¸ÂðŸ”🥩🌭🍳🍞ðŸ¥Â–ðŸ¥ÂžðŸ§Â‡ðŸ¥¨ðŸ¥ªðŸ•ðŸšðŸ±ðŸ£ðŸ›ðŸ¦ªðŸ²ðŸ¥Â—🌯🌮ðŸ§Â†ðŸ¥Â™ðŸ¥®ðŸ¥ ðŸ¨ðŸŽ‚🍿🍦🍭🥧🍰ðŸ§ÂðŸ¥ÂœðŸ§Â˜‍♀ï¸ÂðŸ§Â˜‍♀ï¸ÂðŸ˜´ðŸ˜´ðŸ˜´

A post shared by Mimi (@mimichakraborty) onApr 13, 2020 at 3:49am PDT

Mimi also shared a small video clip where she was seen wishing her fans on the occasion of Bengali new year. In the video, Mimi was seen donning a black shirt with the caption: All I did todau was survive! A day before welcoming the Bengali new year, Mimi shared a picture where she can be seen posing for a selfie while being sunkissed.

While sharing the sun kissed picture with her fans, Mimi wrote: Waiting for...umm ohh yes bengali new year...And plans?

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

‪Stay Home ~ Stay Safe 🙏‬ ‪We shall overcome ❤ï¸Ââ€¬ #quarantine #indiafightscovid19

A post shared by Nusrat (@nusratchirps) onMar 23, 2020 at 8:35am PDT

Both Nusrat and Mimi have been quarantined at home and have been updating their fans on how they are staying safe and maintaining social distance. From Mimi playing games, cleaning her kitchen and enjoying the beauty of nature to Nusrat showing off her painting skills and donning a chef's hat, the two BFFs are making the most of the quarantined period.

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While checking our bank accounts and our stocked fridges this week, have felt a moment of gratitude for the economic security nets that we have, that will help us tide over the next 21 days untill 30th of April 2020, as announced by the Indian government for breaking down the chain of COVID-19 i.e Coronavirus.

But there are also many who don’t have this net, and now do not have the option of stepping out to earn their daily wage and henceforth they are needy.

Some organisations & Individuals are helping the fortunate former reach out to help the latter. Meet Palan if one of the individual helping the poor society during the lockdown.

To help you aid these initiatives, Volunteers for Meet's team has put together a list of verified Non-Government Organizations, charities and institutions, which are working towards this cause in Rajkot, Gujarat.

For instance, Meet's & his team has successfully called for contributions and have donated more than 270 kilograms of rice with more than 235 kilograms of dal which is the basic staple food in india. Congratulations to Mr Meet Palan and all the best to him for his good deeds.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday demanded the Central government to bring back Indian workers stranded in the Middle East due to the COVID-19 crisis.

"The #Covid19 crisis & shutting of businesses in the Middle East have left thousands of Indian workers in deep distress & desperate to return home. The Govt must organise flights to bring home our brothers & sisters most in need of assistance, with quarantine plans in place," Gandhi tweeted.

The #Covid19 crisis & shutting of businesses in the Middle East have left thousands of Indian workers in deep distress & desperate to return home. The Govt must organise flights to bring home our brothers & sisters most in need of assistance, with quarantine plans in place.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 15, 2020

In India, a total of 11,439 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported, including 1,305 cured/discharged and 377 deaths.

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Amid fears over the spread of coronavirus, a 25-year-old man was allegedly shot at by another person, following an argument that was triggered by his "coughing" during a game of ludo at Greater Noida, police said on Wednesday.

The incident took place around 9 pm on Tuesday at a temple in Dayanagar village under the Jarcha police station limits, where four people, including the man who received gunshot injuries, were playing the board game, they added.

The injured man, Prashant Singh alias Pravesh, was hospitalised, while the accused, Jai Veer Singh alias Gullu (30), is yet to be arrested, the police said. Both are residents of Dayanagar village and engaged in agriculture, according to the police.

"Prashant and three others were playing ludo at the village temple on Tuesday night when Gullu arrived there. An argument broke out between Prashant and Gullu when the former coughed. Gullu got angry thinking he was doing it deliberately," a police official told PTI.

"As the argument intensified, Gullu pulled out a pistol and shot at Prashant," he said. An injured Prashant was rushed to a private hospital, where his condition is stable now, the police said, adding that an FIR was registered against the accused and efforts were on to arrest him.

Coughing, fever and difficulty in breathing are some of the symptoms of the novel coronavirus, a highly contagious disease, according to government advisories.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said a lockdown is not a solution to the virus and suggested the Centre should aggressively go for testing and use it strategically.

"We are in a very serious situation, that is clear and I think all political parties have to work together and the people of India have to work together if we want to solve this problem and defeat this virus... Over the last couple of months, I have been speaking to large number of experts in India and abroad, who have a very good understanding of what is going on. So, a lot of what I am going to be saying is going to be based on these conversations," Rahul said while addressing media via video conference.

Lockdown is in no way a solution to the #COVID19. Lockdown is like a pause button. When we come out of the lockdown, the virus is going to start its work again: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/PLQlHtZCCL

— ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2020

"The first thing to understand is that a lockdown is like a pause button. A lockdown is in no way a solution to COVID-19...When we come out of the lockdown, the virus is going to start its work again. So, it is very important that we have a strategy to come out of the lockdown," he added.

Rahul stated that lockdown "allows you the time and space to put in medical resources, to ramp up your testing ability, to prepare your hospitals, to get ventilators, to create the type of architecture that is required to fight the virus when it picks up again." "So, there is one misconception that I would like to clear up. In no way does a lockdown defeat the virus. It stops the virus for some time. Now what is the real weapon against the virus, the biggest weapon? The Biggest weapon is testing. Testing at scale so you know where the virus is moving and you isolate the virus and target the virus," he said.

Now we've reached a level, where we are in an emergency situation. India must unite&fight against it. My main suggestion is that blunt instruments must not be used. We must work strategically. Lockdown has not resolved the problem, it has only postponed the problem: Rahul Gandhi https://t.co/1Pt8uD2OQ0

— ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2020

The former Congress president also stated that India's testing rate is 199 out of a million. "If you look at all the tests that we have done over the last 72 days, it works out to approximately an average of 350 tests per district. This is in no way enough to tell you how the virus moving," Rahul said

"If you want to fight the virus, you have to increase testing dramatically and your testing has to go from chasing the virus to moving ahead of the virus... Lot of our testing is currently chasing the virus because we are identifying cases and then following the virus. With that type of testing, you will never be able to actually get a good image of what the virus is doing and where the virus is," he added.

If you want to fight the virus, you've to increase the testing dramatically & your testing has to go from chasing the virus to moving ahead of it. You've to move to random testing and pre-empt where the virus is moving: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi #Coronavirus https://t.co/YWG4PJEoSK pic.twitter.com/9t2hOA1wgm

— ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2020

Rahul has advised the central government to push testing aggressively, maximise testing and use testing strategically. The testing levels are currently too low and the Government of India is not using testing strategically, he noted. Prime Minister Modi had on March 24 announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID19. Earlier this week, he announced the extension of lockdown till May 3.

With 941 more COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, India's coronavirus tally crossed the 12,000 mark with the tally reading at 12,380 cases, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Thursday. Out of the total tally, 10,477 patients are active cases while 1,489 patients have been cured, discharged and migrated. With 37 more deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the death toll has risen to 414.

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A woman in Telangana delivered a child by the roadside as she could not be shifted to a hospital in Suryapet town on time by her husband on his motorbike due to barricades put up on the way due to the ongoing lockdown. D. Venkanna, a daily-wage worker, and his wife Reshma live in Annadurainagar, near Suryapet town.

When his pregnant wife complained of pain late in the night, he called 108 Ambulance service but was told that the vehicle had gone to some other place to pick up a patient. With no option available, he made her sit on his scooty and left for Suryapet Government General Hospital. Venkanna said when they reached the old bus stand, the road was closed with barricades.

As there were no policemen posted there, he asked his wife to sit on the footpath and rushed to a nearby police station and pleaded with a constable to remove the barricade. The cop allegedly told him that he can't move from the assigned place of duty and advised Venkanna to himself remove the barricade. An anxious Venkanna rushed back to the place to find his wife crying with pain.

Even as the man ran around to get some help to remove them, the woman delivered the baby girl by the roadside. The incident occurred barely a km away from a government hospital in the early hours of Thursday. Hearing the cries of the woman and her husband's call for help, some area women rushed out of their houses to assist her.

After repeated attempts by the locals, an ambulance reached the spot. The medical assistants cut the umbilical cord and shifted the mother and the newborn to the hospital. Doctors said both were doing well.

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In a tragic case of migrant labour crisis, a 12-year-old girl, working at a chilli farm in Telangana, collapsed and died on Saturday while trying to make her way back home in Bijapur district in Chhatisgarh, amid the Coronavirus lockdown. According to the officials, the deceased, Jamalo Madkam, who left home in Bijapur’s Aded village just two months ago, was barely 11 km away from reaching there when she collapsed, Indian Express reported.

Officials also said that Madkam is suspected to have died of electrolyte imbalance as she was walking for three days with 13 others working in Telangana to her village, covering the distance of 100 km. The girl has also tested for Coronavirus that came negative. The results of the test came a day after she died.

Other than Madkam, the group included three children and eight women. Madkam’s father Andoram said that he had heard she left with a group from Peruru village in Telangana on April 16. “They decided to come back after realising that the lockdown had got extended and they would not get any work,” he said.

They'd gone to Telangana to work in chilli fields. Since there's no mode of transportation they walked from Telangana. Her body was preserved&samples were sent for testing as a precautionary measure. It came negative so further action is being taken after postmortem: CMHO Bijapur https://t.co/UR23YXW71L

— ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2020

The girl was the only daughter of Andoram (32) and his wife Sukamati (30), who were barely surviving on forest produce until she went to Telangana for the first time to work on a chilli farm. He said that she had gone to work with some women from the village.

Medical Officer of Bijapur district Dr B R Pujari was quoted by the newspaper as saying that the group had walked through forests and in one place, the girl had a fall. The newspaper quoted sources saying that the girl had died at 8 am on Saturday when the group had reached the border of Bijapur district. They could not inform her family earlier as only among them carried a phone whose battery died.

When the group reached Bhandarpal village, they managed to inform the girl’s family by requesting a resident of the village to help them make a call to her parents. They also informed the police about the girl’s death to the police.

Pujari said that the medical team rushed to the spot as soon as they got the news. “Since Telangana had cases, we immediately sent our teams, but we couldn’t find them,” he said.  Then the team found the group who handed over Madkam’s body to them. The group was then sent to a quarantine facility whereas the girl’s body was sent to a morgue. Andoram and Sukamati collected the girl’s body on Sunday evening.

Chhatisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel announced Rs 1 lakh compensation for the girl’s family on Monday.

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After agitated Congress workers filed multiple complaints against Republic TV editor Arnab Goswami, an FIR has been registered against him in a police station in Chhattisgarh's Raipur. The FIR in the Civil Lines police was filed on the complaint of state Congress chief Mohan Markam under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, relating to promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc and deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs.

In the complaint, Markam said that in his TV programme, the editor has instigated a crime and tried to disrupt communal harmony.

The Congress has also talked to Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Mahararashtra minister Balasahab Thorat said. "I condemn the attempts made by Arnab Goswami to communalise the unfortunate incident at Palghar & also the derogatory language used by him against @INCIndia President Sonia ji Gandhi. I have spoken to CM @OfficeofUT & HM @AnilDeshmukhNCP Strict action will be initiated against him," he said, in a tweet.

I condemn the attempts made by Arnab Goswami to communalise the unfortunate incident at Palghar & also the derogatory language used by him against @INCIndia President Sonia ji Gandhi
I have spoken to CM @OfficeofUT & HM @AnilDeshmukhNCP Strict action will be initiated against him

— Balasaheb Thorat (@bb_thorat) April 22, 2020

The Congress has also initiated an online campaign against Goswami on various social media platforms.

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After agitated Congress workers filed multiple complaints against Republic TV editor Arnab Goswami, an FIR has been registered against him in a police station in Chhattisgarh's Raipur. The FIR in the Civil Lines police was filed on the complaint of state Congress chief Mohan Markam under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, relating to promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc and deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs.

In the complaint, Markam said that in his TV programme, the editor has instigated a crime and tried to disrupt communal harmony.

The Congress has also talked to Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Mahararashtra minister Balasahab Thorat said. "I condemn the attempts made by Arnab Goswami to communalise the unfortunate incident at Palghar & also the derogatory language used by him against @INCIndia President Sonia ji Gandhi. I have spoken to CM @OfficeofUT & HM @AnilDeshmukhNCP Strict action will be initiated against him," he said, in a tweet.

I condemn the attempts made by Arnab Goswami to communalise the unfortunate incident at Palghar & also the derogatory language used by him against @INCIndia President Sonia ji Gandhi
I have spoken to CM @OfficeofUT & HM @AnilDeshmukhNCP Strict action will be initiated against him

— Balasaheb Thorat (@bb_thorat) April 22, 2020

The Congress has also initiated an online campaign against Goswami on various social media platforms.

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After four people recovered from COVID-19 in Moga, the district has become coronavirus free, informed KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab on Thursday. "There were 4 Corona positive cases who were kept in isolation for 14 days. Now, they have been tested twice and are now negative. District Moga is COVID-free now," the official tweeted.

"They are all TJ's and belong to Maharashtra--14 in all. They will be kept in Deaddiction and Rehabilitation Centre at Village Janer, which is closed now. This one is totally away from habitation. No one will object. Once the Inter-State borders open, they will be sent back," he said in another tweet.

According to the Health Ministry, Punjab so far has recorded 251 cases of coronavirus, out of which 49 have been cured and 16 have lost their lives.

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Asserting that 12 crore people have lost their jobs in the first phase of the lockdown, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Thursday said that it is imperative for the government to provide them with immediate financial assistance to each family to tide over this crisis and reiterated that the unemployment is likely to increase further as economic activity remains at a standstill. "Entitlement of food grains under the National Food Security Act has not yet reached the beneficiaries. 11 crore people who are in need of subsidized food grains, remain outside of the Public Distribution System. It should be our commitment to provide 10 kgs of food grains, 1 kg of pulses and half a Kg of sugar to each person of the family every month, in this hour of crisis," Gandhi at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting today.

"12 crore jobs have been lost in the first phase of the lockdown. Unemployment is likely to increase further as economic activity remains at a standstill. It is imperative to provide at least Rs.7,500 to each family to tide over this crisis. Migrant labourers are still stranded, jobless and desperate to return home. They have been hit the hardest. They must be provided with food security and a financial safety net in order to survive this period of crisis," she said. The Congress chief said that a special package should be announced urgently for the survival of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

"MSMEs employ close to 11 crore personnel today. They make up for one third of the GDP. If they are to be protected from economic ruin, it is imperative that a special package be announced urgently for their survival," she said. The Congress chief claimed that the Central Government does not appear to have a "clear" idea on how the situation will be managed after May 3, when the ongoing lockdown will end. "A lockdown of the present nature after that date would be even more devastating," she said.Gandhi said that the Congress has repeatedly urged the Prime Minister that there is "no alternative to testing, trace and quarantine programme."

"Unfortunately, testing still remains low and testing kits are still in short supply and of poor quality. PPE kits are being provided to our doctors and healthcare workers but the number and quality is poor," she said. The Congress chief said that farmers are facing serious difficulties. "The issues of weak and unclear procurement policies and disrupted supply chains need to be addressed without delay. Necessary facilities must be made available to the farmers for the next round of Kharif crops which will begin in the coming 2 months," she said.

In a veiled attack against the Centre, Gandhi said: "The states and local governments are the frontline of the battle against COVID-19. Funds legitimately owed to our states have been held back." She accused the BJP of spreading the "virus of communal prejudice and hatred" amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

"Let me also share with you something that should worry each and every one us Indians. When we should be tackling the coronavirus unitedly, the BJP continues to spread the virus of communal prejudice and hatred. Grave damage is being done to our social harmony. Our party, we will have to work hard to repair that damage," she said. The Congress chief applauded doctors, nurses, paramedics, health workers, sanitation workers and all other essential service providers, NGO and the lakhs of citizens providing relief to the most needy all over India.

Gandhi said that she had written "several times" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after lockdown came into force.

"I offered our constructive cooperation and also made a number of suggestions to alleviate the suffering of both rural and urban families. These suggestions had been formulated on the basis of feedback we have been receiving from different sources, including our Chief Ministers. Unfortunately, they have been acted upon only partially and in a miserly way. The compassion, large-heartedness and alacrity that should be forthcoming from the Central Government is conspicuous by its absence," she said.

The Congress leader asserted that the focus must continue to be on successfully engaging with health, food security and livelihood issues. "The lockdown continues and all sections of our society continue to face acute hardship and distress--particularly our kisans and khet mazdoors, migrant labour, construction workers and workers in the unorganized sector. Trade, commerce and industry have come to a virtual halt and crores of livelihoods have been destroyed," she said.

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YouTubers in the PUBG Mobile scene in India. Godnixon mostaly famous for his tips & tricks videos where he shows various unique ways in which you can make the best possible use of the area/buildings be it bridges, squad houses, triple storey builds, warehouses and so on. With over 845K subscribers on YouTube and around 60+ million views on his YouTube channel, he is one of the mainstream content creators out there for PUBG Mobile.

Amazed by the quality of content available on his channel, Fnatic India has decided to take GodNixon overboard as their content creator. Is this a move to help the Fnatic PUBG squad perform better than their performance right now with some help from one of the best content creators out there? Or is it just that they want to take a step forward in a positive direction so as to create more opportunities for budding content creators out there?

GodNixon is one of the figureheads of the Indian PUBG Mobile community and was chosen as the country representative for India during PMCO in 2019. In the announcement video, he revealed that at the moment he is stuck in a hotel in Bangalore as the entire country is under lock down and he can’t get back home. As a result, he hasn’t been able to release content as regularly as he would like to. However, he did mention that we can expect a variety of content from both him and Fnatic in the near future.

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officers that no public gathering should be allowed in the state till June 30 amid the coronavirus outbreak. "Chief Minister has directed officers that no public gathering be allowed till 30th June. Further decision will be taken depending on the situation," Office of CM Yogi Adityanath tweeted.

The Chief Minister held a meeting with chairpersons of 11 committees of the state over the COVID-19 situation.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, there are 1,621 coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh including 247 cured/discharged and 25 deaths.

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Cricketer-turned-BJP MP Gautam Gambhir performed the last rites of his domestic help - a nanny who Gambhir called as "family", prompting Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan to thank him for his "compassion". The deceased, identified as Saraswati Patra was working with the Gambhirs for a few years now.

On Thursday, Gambhir tweeted: "Taking care of my little one can never be domestic help. She was family. Performing her last rites was my duty. Always believed in dignity irrespective of caste, creed, religion or social status. Only way to create a better society. That's my idea of India! Om Shanti."

Patra was with the Gambhir family for six years and breathed her last amid the nationwide lockdown. Patra was reportedly battling diabetes and blood pressure and was admitted at a private hospital in New Delhi.

Patra was from Jajpur district of Odisha. BJP minister from Odisha Pradhan tweet his gratitude towards Gambhir. He said: "Taking care of Saraswati throughout the course of her illness, he also ensured her dignity in death by performing her last rites himself since her mortal remains could not be sent to her family back home in Odisha. Thank Shri @GautamGambhir for this humanitarian gesture."

Pradhan added, as a fellow Odia, "His act of compassion will enliven the faith in humanity for millions of poor, who are working far from their homes for livelihood and will garner respect from all folds of society."

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As the deadly coronavirus infection spreads fast in India and elsewhere, even faster is the spread of fake news regarding the pandemic and experts warn this 'infodemic' can have huge economic costs for companies across the world in addition to health concerns for the public at large. While authorities have announced severe penal actions for those spreading fake news regarding this pandemic, which has already caused nearly 2 lakh deaths globally with more than 28 lakh infections since its outbreak in China last December, widespread misinformation surrounding the disease has seen people drinking disinfectants and industrial alcohol while trying various rumoured treatments.

False claims and fake news, mostly forwarded through social media platforms, have also led to several cases of religion-based attacks, hate speeches and other discriminatory activities, while cyber frauds are also on the rise with scamsters seeking to take advantage of the crisis situation. In addition to the damages caused to public health and societal behaviour, experts warn the undeterred wave of fake news poses a huge risk to corporates, for whom it becomes difficult at times to filter out the right information that is crucial for them to ensure success of their business continuity, especially when almost the entire world is locked down.

Farah Lalani, who is a community creator for media, entertainment and information industries at the Geneva-based World Economic Forum (WEF), said businesses need to be proactive about calling out misinformation that is spreading about their brand, directing customers to official channels and making sure there is always clear and up to date information on all their social accounts. "While bad actors, fraudsters, and uninformed users can spread fabricated or misleading information, if businesses collaborate closely with the entire media ecosystem and regulatory bodies, they can start to work together to solve this very challenging problem," she told PTI.

In India, some organisations including industry bodies and advocacy groups have begun compiling official and credible information about the COVID-19 fight and the ongoing lockdown to help companies in their preparedness for tackling the crisis. Leading advocacy group Chase India, which was among the first to start this practice right from the initial days of the COVID-19 crisis emerging as a major threat in the country, has been sending across multiple daily updates to its clients, including on the latest actions taken by the central and state governments and also on initiatives being taken by various corporates.

Experts said the correct information is necessary for companies to help them understand, analyse and then implement various new guidelines being issued by the central and state governments. "In today's circumstances, besides the current public health crisis of COVID-19 and socio-economic impact related to climate change, one of the biggest concerns is legitimate and timely sourcing of information," Chase India's co-founder and Executive Vice President Manash K Neog said.

"As a public policy consultancy, our key challenge during the pre-lockdown phase was to mitigate frenzy around rumours of lockdown for our clients as it was creating panic for the operational teams of clients. "Further to that, we have institutionalised mechanisms such as our hourly and daily COVID-19 advisory trackers for the central and state governments to support clients with timely and authentic information basis which they are able to better plan their business continuity strategies," he added.

According to experts, companies are working hard to ensure timely access to right information as costs could be too high for them if they fall for some misinformation and in such a situation the role of media is also very important. Releasing a new survey recently, which found that just about one-fourth of the consumers in India currently pay for news but nearly two-thirds are willing to pay, the WEF said the current coronavirus challenge further emphasises the indispensable role that the media plays in society today.

With social media becoming the main platform for spread of false claims, giants like Facebook and Twitter have also begun deleting such posts and taking other actions. Some of the posts deleted on such grounds include those of public figures as well, the most famous being posts shared by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in which he had claimed anti-malaria prescription drug hydroxychloroquine was an effective treatment for COVID-19.

Twitter had also deleted a post by Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro in which he had apparently endorsed a "brew" for eliminating infectious genes. Various social media platforms have also imposed several restrictions on advertisements claiming various cures for COVID-19, while hate content regarding the pandemic is also being dealt with sternly. However, all these steps have not been able to totally eradicate the fake news flow, which the World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described as 'infodemic' in the context of the novel coronavirus.

"We are not just fighting an epidemic, we are fighting an infodemic," he said, referring to fake news as something that "spreads faster and more easily than this virus". United Nations' chief Antonio Guterres too said last month that an "infodemic of misinformation" was also an enemy that we all need to fight while battling COVID-19.

"To overcome the coronavirus, we need to urgently promote 'facts and science' and 'hope and solidarity' over despair and division," he said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India's fight against the coronavirus is "people-driven" and is being fought by the masses and the administration together. "India's fight against coronavirus is actually people-driven. This fight is being fought by the people and the administration together. Every citizen as a soldier is fighting this war," Prime Minister Modi said in his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' address.

The Prime Minister said a vast country like India which is starving for development and fighting a decisive battle against poverty has only this option to fight against coronavirus. "I am confident that in future, whenever there is a discussion regarding the pandemic there will be a reference to Indian's people-driven fight against the infection," he said

The Prime Minister said today's Mann Ki Baat is taking place "when we are in the midst of a 'Yuddh' (war).

"When I talk about a mask, I remember an old thing. You also would be remembering, there was a time when a person seen buying fruits would be questioned whether someone in the family was sick. It meant, fruits could only be consumed during illness, such was the thinking that time. But with changing times, this thinking also changed," he said.

"Similarly, perception regarding the mask is also about to change. You will see that mask will now become a symbol of civilised society. If you want to save yourself and others from disease, then you will have to use a mask. And, I have a simple suggestion, 'Gamcha'," he added.

He added that in changing times due to COVID-19, masks are becoming part of our lives. "We have not been habitual of seeing people around us with masks but this is happening now. It doesn't mean that all those who use masks are sick," the Prime Minister said.

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Playing game of cards and hosting parties to kill time during the nationwide lockdown, two truck driver in Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada city spread coronavirus to as many as 38 persons, officials said on Sunday.

One of them infected 24 people while organising a game of cards at his house and inviting his neighbours and friends to join in. According to officials, he had gone to Kolkata in West Bengal to ferry some goods and returned to the city on April 4 via Odisha.

Feeling bored, the driver invited neighbours and friends for a game of cards while his wife invited womenfolk from nearby houses.

When the truck driver tested positive, officials questioned him and came to know about his activities since his return hoe. Those who came in contact with him were screened and most found infected.

Another driver spread the virus to 14 people. Investigations revealed that he had gone to Dubai and returned via Sri Lanka and Chennai last month. Without observing home quarantine, he attended parties and thus spread of virus.

Vijayawada is a hotspot in the state and it accounts for more than 100 of the 177 positive cases reported so far in Krishna district.

District collector Imtiyaz Ahmed said unless people cooperate in checking the spread of coronavirus, government efforts alone can't yield the desired results.

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After a series of creative doodles to thank the ones who are fighting Coronavirus from the forefront, like the healthcare workers, police, Google doodle is now urging people to stay at home to contain the spread of novel Coronavirus and spend the extra time by playing games.

Today's animation features a young kid dressed as one of the O's from the word Google. The kid is sitting on the computer and playing a game. The text on the doodle reads, "Stay and play at home with popular past Google Doodles: Coding (2017)."

Once you click on it, it takes you to a game that was originally shared by Google in 2017 to celebrate 50 years of kids coding. The game features a rabbit and various carrots which are placed around him need to be collected.

Covid- 19 has affected a total of 29,70,705 people and taken 2,06,514 lives globally till now. In India, the novel coronavirus positive cases have crossed the 27,000 mark and over 800 fatalities have been reported.