Renault is set to launch the new-gen Duster and its seven-seat version, Boreal, in early 2026. Both will have engine options beyond standard petrol and turbocharged units, including mild-hybrid and strong hybrid options. Production will begin this September at Renault-Nissan's Chennai plant, with an expected market launch in early 2026. The Duster and Boreal will also have CNG-powered variants.
"Reimagining India's Economy" by Arun Maira delves into the crisis facing the Indian economy, with leaders denying the truth and relying on GDP growth to improve citizens' lives. "The Caste Con Census" by Anand Teltumbde questions the effectiveness of caste counts in addressing inequalities. "Heartbeats: A Memoir" by Björn Borg reveals the tennis legend's personal experiences and choices.
Shehan Karunatilaka, a Sri Lankan writer, won the 2022 Booker Prize for his novel The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida. His success reflects the growing attention on South Asian literature, fueled by political changes and diverse storytelling. Karunatilaka, a prominent speaker at literary festivals, discusses the rise of the subcontinent's literature and his future projects.
In the village of Gummatapura, India, the Diwali celebrations end with a cow-dung throwing festival known as Gorehabba. This centuries-old ritual draws tourists and is rooted in the belief that cow dung has healing properties. While some support the tradition, others are shocked by it. This offbeat festival showcases the unique culture and beliefs of the locals.
iWar by Tim Higgins explores the rise of Apple as the world's most valuable company and the challenges it faced from lawmakers, regulators, and entrepreneurs. It delves into the creation of the iPhone and App Store, and the accusations of monopoly. The book also discusses the rise of other digital ecosystems and the need for consumer protection in a world dominated by Big Tech.
A new digital museum, featuring 240 missing artefacts from 46 countries, was launched at UNESCO's conference in Barcelona. The museum uses AI to restore objects and aims to return them to their countries of origin. Designed by architect Fracis Kéré, the museum is not yet open to the public. Other museums are also using AI for curation, visitor experience, and security against robberies.
Kamala Harris, former US Vice-President and presidential candidate, may run for the top office again. In an interview with BBC, she stated that there will be a woman president in the future, possibly herself. She also addressed criticisms of being an outsider. She also commented on Trump's presidency, stating that her warnings about him have proven to be true.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has declared October 27 as a holiday for Chhath Puja, emphasizing its significance and the importance of the third day when prayers are offered to the Sun God. The government has also taken steps to ensure cleanliness and security at Chhath Ghats, promoting harmony and goodwill. The festival is celebrated widely in India and internationally from October 25 to 28.
OpenAI's ChatGPT will now allow adult content for verified users, with a global roll-out by 2025. Age-verification and content monitoring will protect minors, addressing concerns of consent and privacy. This reflects a larger trend of AI being used for adult content, and OpenAI's move brings it into the mainstream while balancing user freedom and safeguards.
Ayurveda healing has made its way from kitchens to cafés, with restaurants and cafes like Cafe Swasthya in Gurugram offering ayurvedic dishes designed to suit customers' dosha types. Other eateries like Soma Ayurveda Kitchen and Swadshakti are also incorporating ayurvedic principles into their menus.
In just a decade, India has seen a dramatic shift in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). While in 2014-15, EVs accounted for just 0.01% of all registered vehicles, in 2024-25, they made up 7.31% of new registrations. However, this surge has also exposed the glaring gaps in the country's charging infrastructure.
The 2025 TikTok Awards Korea celebrated the rising K-pop talents THE BOYZ, CORTIS, KiiiKiii, CLOSE YOUR EYES, QWER, KiiiKiii, and MEOVV with awe-inspiring performances. The event, with the theme "New Era, New Icons," was held at Korea University Hwajeong Gymnasium and sponsored by the Korean Music Copyright Association. A-list celebrities from the Korean TikTok universe and K-pop stars walked the
A viral video shows a drunk biker and his companion stopping at a fuel station before the Andhra bus fire that killed 20 people. The cause of the fire was a bike with its fuel cap open, dragged underneath the bus. The bus driver and additional driver have been charged with negligence and over speeding. The viral video shows a biker driving recklessly at a petrol pump.
Netflix has pulled the plug on the second seasons of several new K-dramas in 2025. After dropping titles like Resident Playbook, When Life Gives You Tangerines, When the Phone Rings and more, the streaming giant has now axed hopes for another set of shows that premiered between May and September 2025.
Kotak Mahindra Bank reported a standalone net profit of Rs 3,253.33 crore for Q2FY26, down 2.7% from a year ago. Net interest income increased 4% YoY to Rs 7,311 crore, while operating profit rose 3% YoY. Asset quality improved, with GNPA at Rs 6,480 crore and net NPA at Rs 1,491 crore.
NCC bags a Rs 6,828.94 crore contract from CCL for a major mining project in Jharkhand, making it one of the company's biggest order wins. The project includes the extraction and transportation of overburden and coal, to be completed over a period of seven years. The contract does not involve any related-party transactions and the company's share price has declined 24.56% this year.
On October 20, four suspects posing as construction workers robbed the Louvre museum in just seven minutes, stealing eight pieces of jewelry. The incident, reminiscent of a heist movie, has sparked conspiracy theories that it was a PR stunt for the upcoming film Now You See Me 3. While some find it humorous, others are left feeling shaken. Lionsgate has denied involvement in the heist.
Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna, famous for their wit and discipline, host a talk show called Two Much. Their controversial remarks entertain guests. They own properties in Mumbai, North America, and Goa, with Twinkle's design studio, The White Window, playing a major role in their luxurious homes. Their combined real estate portfolio is impressive.
A Mohali court has ordered YouTube, Telegram, and Instagram to remove deepfake videos defaming Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann within 24 hours. Failure to comply may result in legal action, with a compliance report due in 10 days. This follows previous warnings to Facebook and Google. The AI-generated fake video of the CM was posted by a person, after which the cyber crime police registered a case.
Indian Railways is prepared for the heavy passenger movement after Chhath Puja, with over 12,000 special trains being operated nationwide. Special measures have been taken at major stations in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, including additional coaches, crowd-control systems, and medical booths. Real-time crowd management is being monitored through dedicated war rooms.
Reliance Industries and Facebook have joined forces to create a new AI subsidiary, REIL, with an initial investment of Rs 855 crore. Reliance will hold a 70% stake while Facebook will hold 30%. The partnership aims to offer AI solutions for India's sovereign needs and small businesses, with a vision of "AI Everywhere for Everyone". No regulatory approvals are needed for the incorporation of REIL.
Billionaires like Mario Lopez, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg incorporate Brazilian jiu-jitsu into their fitness routines for its mental and physical benefits. Studies suggest that jiu-jitsu can improve cognitive health, heart rate, and lung capacity, potentially increasing life expectancy and reducing signs of aging. It is recommended to consult a doctor before starting any new fitness routine.
Former CIA officer John Kiriakou revealed that the United States controlled Pakistan's nuclear arsenal and essentially "purchased" former President Pervez Musharraf through millions in aid. Kiriakou stated that the US had good relations with Musharraf and that he was allowing them to do whatever they wanted.
Anil Agarwal, Founder and Chairman of Vedanta Group, is Bihar's richest individual with a reported wealth of Rs 35,000 crore. He ranks 16th in the top 100 of the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 and 4th among non-Resident India wealth creators globally. Agarwal's journey from humble beginnings to building a global natural resources powerhouse is a testament to his determination.
Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant Technology Solutions and a former Nvidia engineer, is adhering to a fresh approach to hiring. Leading a company of around 350,000 employees, Kumar believes AI won’t just automate tasks, it can actually create new opportunities, particularly for entry-level workers, like school graduates.
eClerx Services has announced a share buyback worth Rs 300 crore at a price of Rs 4,500 per share. The buyback represents 21.08% of the company’s equity capital and 13.80% on a consolidated basis. 15% of the shares will be reserved for small investors, with promoters and promoter group not participating. Shareholders' approval and process details are awaited.
The TikTok Awards Korea ceremony, sponsored by the Korean Music Copyright Association, will be held in Seoul today. The event will showcase rising K-pop stars and honor social media creators. It will be broadcast live on MBC every 1 and MBC M, with live streaming on TikTok's official account and TikTok Live. Voting is open for eight categories, including Creator of the Year and Video of the Year.
Chandraprabha Singh, a 44-year-old woman of Indian origin, was arrested earlier this month in North Carolina after being charged with felony assault for allegedly attacking her husband with a knife, WBTV reported.
A developing weather system over the southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 27, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue rainfall alerts across multiple states. Heavy rains have already impacted Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Bihar, with Odisha on high alert.
Beer is more than just a drink, it can bring people together, claims Dolf van den Brink, CEO of Heineken. Speaking to the Financial Times, he said that in an era where isolation and mental health challenges are the new normal, beer’s qualities as a “social lubricant” could be a key part of discussions about alcohol.
A doctor in Maharashtra committed suicide, leaving a note accusing a sub-inspector of rape and another person of harassment. The Chief Minister has ordered strict action, and the police have booked the accused and suspended the officer. The investigation into the case is underway, and teams have been formed to nab the duo.
Four members of the US Congress have written to Rutgers University expressing concerns about an upcoming event by the Rutgers Centre, titled “Hindutva in America: A Threat to Equality and Religious Pluralism”.
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney is open to restarting trade negotiations with the US, despite President Trump's decision to halt talks due to an anti-tariff ad. Carney has been trying to lower import tariffs imposed by Trump, but the president is frustrated with Canada's inflexibility. The ad, featuring former President Reagan's words, has sparked controversy and legal action.
Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna's supernatural love story Thamma has had an impressive opening day collection of Rs 24 crore at the box office. Despite a dip in sales on its first Friday, the film has grossed Rs 65 crore worldwide in just three days. Nawazuddin Siddiqui's return as an Indian vampire has been praised for its unique blend.
Uttar Pradesh's Minister for Women Welfare and Child Development, Baby Rani Maurya, narrowly escaped a road accident on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. Her driver's quick reflexes prevented a major accident after their car collided with a truck. Maurya has instructed authorities to review safety measures on the expressway. In a separate incident, three people were killed.
Amid Trump’s immigration crackdown, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new rule that will make it compulsory for all immigrants and non-citizens to be photographed when entering or leaving the United States, Bloomberg reported.
President Trump is heading to Asia for a five-day trip, where he will confront issues like trade tensions and a crucial meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. He will also visit Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, aiming to secure trade agreements and maintain peace in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Discussions with China will revolve around finding compromises.
Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit, known for her dedication to rural poor, traditional crafts, and environment, died at 93. She had been hospitalized since October and largely absent from public life due to declining health. Despite being overshadowed by her husband and son, she was beloved and influential and her birthday was celebrated as Mother's Day.
The U.S. imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of allowing the flow of cocaine into the U.S. and refusing to take action. Petro denies the allegations and claims his government has seized more cocaine than ever before. The move adds him to a short list of leaders hit with sanctions, while tensions between the U.S. and Latin America continue to escalate.
Reliance Jio's Q2 results showed a shift towards home connectivity, with 8.3 million new users and a total of 506 million subscribers. Fixed broadband and 5G net additions were at 2.4 million and 21 million respectively. FWA and FTTH net adds were 2.1 million and 0.9 million, indicating the success of Jio's home broadband expansion.
Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato and Blinkit, announced a $25 million investment into his independent venture, Continue Research, which focuses on advancing studies in human health and longevity. The funds will support researchers globally and aim to extend the period of healthy human function.
Kotak Mahindra Bank has completed due diligence to acquire government's stake in IDBI Bank, potentially valuing it at $8-10 billion. It is a front runner in the race for the bank and the government aims to finalize the winning bidder by the end of FY26. Final financial bids are expected to be invited soon.
RBL Bank is considering opening bank accounts for Zerodha's 160 million broking clients, potentially bringing in `40,000 crore in deposits. This move could greatly benefit RBL's retail franchise, improving its cost of funds and liquidity profile. The talks come after Emirates NBD's investment in RBL, positioning it for growth in retail, corporate, and digital banking.
Blackstone, a global private equity firm, has purchased a majority stake in Ace Insurance Brokers for Rs 1,700 crore, making it their first investment in India's insurance intermediary market. With this acquisition, Blackstone now holds 70% of the company and plans to increase their investments in India, particularly in infrastructure and logistics.
RBI introduces targeted amendments to its regulation framework for NBFCs, proposing a refined approach to risk weights for infrastructure exposure. Under the new amendment, projects with high-quality infrastructure, satisfactory operations, and robust creditor protections will attract reduced risk weights.
Internet enthusiasts are obsessed with a French detective who appeared at the Louvre heist, sparking speculations and discussions on social media. The dapper man, caught in a photo taken by AP photographer Thibault Camus, has become the main character of the scene without even knowing it. While some believed he was AI-generated, it turns out he is a real person.
RIL, India's largest buyer of Russian crude, is evaluating the effects of US, UK, and Europe's restrictions on oil imports. The company will adjust its refinery operations to meet these guidelines. Sanctions on Russian state-run oil companies may disrupt its supply, but RIL is dedicated to following regulations and safeguarding India's energy security.
The Centre has introduced new options, LC 75 and BLC, for central government employees in the NPS and UPS, allowing a higher equity exposure of up to 75%. This move aims to meet the demand for more investment choices and flexibility in retirement planning.
SBI Cards and Payment Services' net profit increased by 10% in Q3, driven by growth in retail and corporate spending. However, it fell short of market expectations. Online spends saw significant growth, forming 62.5% of total retail spends. The company also added 936,000 new accounts and improved asset quality.
Indian B-schools have experienced a significant increase in international and domestic applications, surpassing the global average. Meanwhile, top GME destinations like the US, Canada, and the UK saw a decline, while Europe saw a rise due to favorable immigration policies and job opportunities.
Nomura economists predict that US sanctions on Russian oil will prompt a trade deal and lower tariffs with the US. India's reliance on other countries for oil could raise global prices, resulting in an extra $1.5 billion cost annually. Refiners, such as RIL, are likely to decrease imports from Russia, causing a less than 2% rise in the import bill.