Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has confirmed that he will marry his longtime partner Gauri Spratt on July 5 in an intimate ceremony at his residence in Mumbai. The announcement ends weeks of speculation surrounding the actor's wedding plans.

Speaking to the media during a public event on Thursday evening, Aamir said the wedding would be a simple family affair attended only by close relatives and friends. The actor said both he and Gauri wanted to keep the ceremony private and sought everyone's blessings for their new journey together.

According to reports, the couple will exchange vows at Aamir's Bandra residence. Unlike many celebrity weddings, no grand reception has been planned, with the actor opting for a low-key celebration.

This will be Aamir Khan's third marriage. He was previously married to Reena Dutta and later to Kiran Rao. Despite their separation, Aamir has maintained cordial relations with both former spouses, and reports suggest family members are expected to be part of the wedding celebrations.

Aamir and Gauri have reportedly been in a relationship for more than two years. The actor introduced Gauri publicly on his 60th birthday, following which the couple largely kept their relationship away from the spotlight. Over the past few months, speculation about their marriage had intensified before Aamir officially confirmed the date.

The wedding announcement has generated widespread attention across the entertainment industry and on social media, with fans and celebrities congratulating the couple. Actor Vicky Kaushal was among those who extended his best wishes after Aamir shared details of the ceremony.

Aamir is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming projects while also marking a new chapter in his personal life. The actor has said he and Gauri wish to keep the wedding celebrations "very basic" and focus on spending the day with their loved ones.

The private ceremony is scheduled for July 5, with only invited guests expected to attend. Further details regarding the wedding are likely to emerge after the event.

Mumbai finally witnessed a spell of meaningful rainfall on Sunday morning as the southwest monsoon showed signs of regaining strength after remaining largely stagnant for nearly two weeks. The showers brought much-needed relief to residents who had been enduring high temperatures and persistent humidity over the past several days.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), favourable atmospheric conditions are developing for the monsoon to advance further across parts of western, central and eastern India around June 23. The monsoon had reached South Konkan earlier this month but has remained stalled near Solapur since June 8, slowing its progress into several regions that typically receive seasonal rainfall by this time.

Weather experts attribute Mumbai's latest rainfall to increased cloud formation over the Western Ghats. Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea rise along the mountain range, cool at higher altitudes and form dense rain-bearing clouds. These cloud systems are then pushed towards Mumbai by upper-level winds, resulting in rainfall across the city and adjoining areas.

The revival of monsoon activity comes at a time when large parts of the country continue to experience intense heat. Despite scattered pre-monsoon showers in several states, temperatures crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark in at least eight states on Saturday.

Banda in Uttar Pradesh emerged as the hottest location in the country, recording a maximum temperature of 44.2 degrees Celsius. Delhi also continued to experience hot conditions, with the mercury touching 40 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists say the temporary slowdown in monsoon advancement had extended the wait for rain in several regions. While the western branch of the monsoon has remained stationary since June 8, the eastern branch has shown limited movement since June 12. This pause affected rainfall distribution across multiple states and raised concerns among farmers awaiting seasonal precipitation for sowing activities.

However, recent satellite observations and weather models indicate a gradual increase in cloud activity over central and eastern India. The IMD has noted that atmospheric conditions are becoming more favourable for monsoon progression, suggesting that the seasonal system could begin advancing once again over the coming days.

Around June 23, the monsoon is expected to move into additional parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhattisgarh. Increased rainfall activity is also likely to be observed in adjoining regions as the system strengthens.

For central India, the forecast offers encouraging signs. Between June 21 and June 26, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh are expected to receive rainfall under the influence of strengthening monsoon currents and associated weather systems. Cloud cover has already started increasing over many of these areas, pointing to a more active weather phase ahead.

The expected advancement of the monsoon is particularly significant for the agriculture sector, as several regions have been awaiting adequate rainfall to begin large-scale sowing operations. A timely revival could improve soil moisture levels and support the upcoming kharif season.

With weather conditions evolving rapidly, the IMD is continuing to monitor monsoon movement across the country. Further updates are expected in the coming days as the seasonal rainfall system resumes its northward and eastward advance.

Mumbai was politically charged on Friday as both factions of Shiv Sena marked the party's 60th foundation day with separate rallies — and Uddhav Thackeray used the occasion to address the most serious internal crisis his group has faced since the 2022 split that cost him the Maharashtra government.

Speaking at Shanmukhananda Hall in Sion, Uddhav struck a combative tone. "If you do not trust or believe in me, I am ready to step down as party chief," he told party workers, even as he sought to project confidence. He insisted Shiv Sainiks were not disheartened by the rebellion of six MPs and remained full of enthusiasm. In a pointed remark that drew attention, he said Congress — his current alliance partner — had never tried to destroy Shiv Sena, unlike the BJP. He also warned that the country was drifting toward a "one party, no elections" system, calling it a threat to democracy.

Across the city, Eknath Shinde's faction held its rally at NESCO Center in Goregaon, with large hoardings of Balasaheb Thackeray, Anand Dighe, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shinde himself lining the approach roads. The central question hanging over the Shinde event was whether the six rebel MPs would make a public appearance there — sources within the ruling camp suggested they might attend, though no official confirmation had come through by Friday morning.

The rebellion had been building through the week. On June 15, reports of an "Operation Tiger" — an alleged effort to peel away Uddhav's MPs — began circulating, with the Uddhav faction initially dismissing them. By June 16, the MPs had reportedly been brought to Delhi. Sanjay Raut alleged that inducements of up to Rs 50 crore had been offered to MPs to switch sides. On June 17, Shinde faction leaders claimed six MPs had agreed to form a separate group, prompting Raut, Anil Desai and Arvind Sawant to rush to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The rebels then formally skipped the parliamentary party meeting on June 18 and submitted a letter to the Speaker explaining their position.

In that letter, the six MPs alleged that senior leaders in the Uddhav camp were working toward merging Shiv Sena (UBT) with Congress, and that the party had strayed from its foundational ideology. Senior Sena leader Chandrakant Khaire described the episode as part of the ongoing Operation Tiger exercise in Maharashtra.

The arithmetic matters here. Shiv Sena (UBT) has nine Lok Sabha MPs. Six of them breaking away crosses the two-thirds threshold stipulated under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution — the provision that governs disqualification for defection. Legal experts note this could shield the rebels from immediate disqualification and bolster their claim to recognition as a separate group, though they may eventually need to merge with a recognised political party to consolidate their standing.

This is the second major fracture in Shiv Sena in under four years. In June 2022, Eknath Shinde's rebellion involving 39 MLAs brought down Uddhav's government. The Election Commission subsequently recognised the Shinde faction as the official Shiv Sena and awarded it the party's bow-and-arrow symbol. The current parliamentary revolt threatens to further erode what remains of Uddhav's political organisation.

Further developments are expected as the foundation day events conclude and the rebels' next move becomes clearer.

The Oscar-winning director and his lead stars will make a historic stop in Mumbai this July, marking Nolan's first film premiere in India.

In a first for Indian cinema audiences, filmmaker Christopher Nolan and the star cast of his upcoming epic "The Odyssey" will travel to Mumbai for the film's India premiere this July, placing the city alongside London, Paris and New York on the global tour.

Nolan, his producer wife Emma Thomas, and lead actors Matt Damon and Tom Holland are scheduled to make a stop in the financial capital as part of the international promotional push for the ambitious retelling of Homer's ancient Greek saga. The development marks the first time a Nolan film will have an official premiere in India.

Mumbai Joins Global Premier Circuit

Universal Pictures International has officially designated Mumbai as a stop on "The Odyssey's" global premiere tour, according to a release. The India premiere will be held at PVR Icon IMAX: Phoenix Palladium in Mumbai, a venue that has previously hosted high-profile international film events.

The decision to include India in the promotional circuit underscores the growing importance of the Indian market for Hollywood studios. Industry observers noted that Nolan's previous film "Oppenheimer" performed exceptionally well in India, contributing significantly to its global box office haul.

A Technological First for IMAX

Shot across multiple locations worldwide using brand new IMAX film technology, "The Odyssey" is the first feature film ever to be shot entirely with IMAX cameras. The film arrives in theaters worldwide on July 17.

Nolan has long been a proponent of IMAX technology, previously using the format for sequences in films like "The Dark Knight," "Dunkirk," and "Tenet." This project represents the culmination of his ambitions with the format, with the entire narrative captured on the large-format film.

Star-Studded Ensemble

Damon and Holland play the central roles of Odysseus and his son Telemachus in the epic saga. They are joined by an ensemble cast that includes Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Samantha Morton, Zendaya and Charlize Theron.

Produced by Nolan and Thomas for their company Syncopy, the film brings Homer's foundational saga of Odysseus's decade-long voyage home after the fall of Troy to IMAX screens worldwide. Nolan has written the screenplay and directed the project, adapting the ancient Greek epic for contemporary audiences.

The Nolan India Connection

Nolan's relationship with Indian audiences has grown significantly over the years. "Oppenheimer" received widespread acclaim and strong box office returns in the country, with audiences flocking to IMAX screenings across major cities. The director has previously expressed admiration for Indian cinema and filmmakers.

The Mumbai premiere is expected to draw significant attention, with Bollywood celebrities and industry insiders likely to attend the red-carpet event. Sources close to the production confirmed that the team is looking forward to engaging with Indian fans and media during their visit.

 What to Expect

"The Odyssey" marks Nolan's return to large-scale epic storytelling following the intimate, character-driven narrative of "Oppenheimer." The film has been described as a faithful yet innovative adaptation of Homer's classic, utilising cutting-edge technology to bring the ancient tale to life.

With the global tour kicking off in the coming weeks, Mumbai's inclusion signals the growing recognition of India's importance in the global film economy. The July 17 worldwide release date puts "The Odyssey" in prime summer blockbuster territory, with expectations running high for the film's commercial and critical performance.

Indian equity benchmarks opened the day's trade on a firm note on Tuesday, with the Sensex advancing 250 points to trade at 76,500 during early deals. The broader Nifty also moved up nearly 100 points, hovering around the 23,950 mark. Sectoral buying was concentrated in FMCG and IT counters, which led the gains as investors picked up shares across both segments through the morning session.

FMCG, IT Stocks Rally

Traders tracking the session said the renewed appetite for FMCG and technology stocks helped lift the overall market mood. According to market participants, the buying interest in these two sectors outpaced activity elsewhere on the bourses, giving the Sensex and Nifty a steady push higher as the day progressed. No single trigger was cited for the sectoral preference, though sources familiar with trading patterns pointed to a broader rotation into defensive and export-linked stocks.

Asian Markets Trade Mixed

Regional indices presented a mixed picture on Tuesday. South Korea's Kospi rose sharply, gaining 131 points to settle at 8,662, up 1.56 percent. Japan's Nikkei, however, slipped 83 points to 69,234, down 0.12 percent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell more steeply, losing 318 points or 1.28 percent to close at 24,525. The divergence across Asian markets comes even as Wall Street logged a strong finish heading into the weekend.

US Markets Surge Friday

Overnight cues from the United States remained supportive for domestic sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 469 points, or 0.92 percent, on Friday, while the Nasdaq surged 795 points, gaining a sharp 3.07 percent. The S&P 500 was not far behind, climbing 123 points, or 1.65 percent. The broad-based rally in American markets is being seen as one of the factors supporting risk appetite in Asian and domestic trade this week.

FIIs Sell, DIIs Buy

Flow data released for the period showed foreign institutional investors offloading shares worth Rs 4,994 crore over the past seven trading sessions, even as domestic institutional investors stayed net buyers. DIIs pumped in Rs 3,189 crore on the latest trading day alone, taking their seven-day tally to Rs 15,879 crore and the 30-day figure to a sizeable Rs 1,03,888 crore. FIIs and FPIs, by contrast, remained net sellers over the trailing month, pulling out Rs 77,538 crore during the 30-day window, despite a marginal net inflow of Rs 200 crore on the most recent session.

Previous Session Also Gained

The current uptick follows a strong showing in the previous trading session, when the Sensex had jumped 736 points to close at 76,264. The Nifty had mirrored that strength, ending 231 points higher at 23,853. Back-to-back gains over two sessions suggest the buying momentum has carried through into Tuesday's trade, with market watchers attributing part of the resilience to steady domestic institutional support amid persistent FII selling.

Market participants will now be watching whether the FMCG and IT-led rally sustains through the remainder of the week, particularly given the mixed signals from Asian peers and the continuing tug-of-war between foreign outflows and domestic inflows. Analysts tracking the Sensex and Nifty say global cues, especially from US markets, are likely to remain a key factor influencing domestic trade in the sessions ahead.

Domestic indices fall after heavy FII selling; Sensex down 0.96% and Nifty near 23,300 amid mixed Asian cues

Indian equity markets opened sharply lower on Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex plunging about 700 points to trade around 73,900 and the Nifty50 slipping roughly 200 points to near 23,300, as foreign institutional investors offloaded large chunks of stock and information-technology names faced the steepest selling pressure.

Early trade movement

The Sensex was down 0.96% in early trade, while the Nifty fell about 0.80%. Losses were broad-based but most pronounced in the IT pack, which saw consistent declines from the opening bell. Market participants said sentiment turned cautious after heavy net outflows by FIIs in the previous session.

FII selling and flows

Data compiled by exchanges shows foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold equities worth about ₹8,363 crore on Tuesday. Over the past seven days, FIIs are net sellers to the tune of around ₹33,381 crore, and their 30‑day net outflow stands near ₹71,074 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs), led by mutual funds, remained net buyers; DIIs bought approximately ₹9,589 crore on Tuesday and have added about ₹31,463 crore over the last week.

Regional markets and global cues

Asian markets presented a mixed picture on Wednesday. South Korea’s Kospi was marginally higher, while Japan’s Nikkei jumped over 2.5% in early trading. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, however, fell more than 1.5%. In the US, major indexes had closed with modest gains on Tuesday—Dow Jones rose around 229 points, the S&P 500 added roughly 10 points and the Nasdaq was largely flat—lending a muted backdrop to Asian sessions.

Analysts’ read

“Foreign selling remains the dominant near-term theme,” said a market strategist at a Mumbai-based brokerage, requesting anonymity. “That, combined with profit-taking in large-cap ITs after recent run-ups, is weighing on indices. Internals are weak and breadth is negative in morning trade.” Analysts added that any fresh triggers—earnings updates, macro data or commentary from global central banks—could amplify the moves.

Sector impact

IT stocks led declines, with several mid- and large-cap software names recording sharp losses. Financials, consumer discretionary and select industrial stocks also traded lower. Defensive sectors such as utilities and certain FMCG names showed relative resilience. Brokers pointed to renewed concerns around margin compression and discretionary spending in key global markets as reasons investors pared back exposure to technology names.

Short-term context

Markets had rallied on Tuesday, when benchmark indices closed higher by about 383 points after a day of buying. That rebound, however, was followed by renewed selling from overseas investors, reversing gains. Traders said positioning ahead of domestic macro releases and global cues could keep volatility elevated through the week.

Ground-level cues

On the trading floor at the Bombay Stock Exchange this morning, dealers described brisk offloading in large-cap IT scripts and rotation into cash-heavy defensive names. “The mood is cautious; traders are trimming positions and waiting for clearer directional cues,” said a dealer on the floor.

What to watch next

Investors will look to domestic data due later in the week and any commentary from global central banks for fresh direction. Quarterly earnings from large corporates in coming sessions could also influence sentiment, particularly in the beaten-up IT sector. Market participants will keep a close eye on FII flow data, as sustained outflows could prolong the weakness.

Bottom line

The market’s early weakness on Wednesday was driven largely by heavy FII selling and profit-taking in IT stocks, leaving benchmarks down nearly 1% for the Sensex and about 0.8% for the Nifty. With regional cues mixed and global markets having closed modestly higher overnight, traders said volatility is likely to remain a feature in the short term.

Alia Bhatt guest on India’s Got Latent S2; RJ Mahvash joins

Viral set photo confirms Alia Bhatt as first guest on India’s Got Latent Season 2; RJ Mahvash also says she will appear.

A photograph that began circulating on social media on Tuesday evening has seemingly confirmed that Bollywood star Alia Bhatt will be the first celebrity guest on the much-anticipated second season of Samay Raina’s comedy show, India’s Got Latent.

The image, reportedly taken by an audience member at The Habitat in Mumbai, shows Bhatt in a casual grey T-shirt and black cap, holding a microphone. Actor Sharvari Wagh is seated beside her at the judges’ table, along with comedian Aashish Solanki and venue owner Balraj Ghai, a close associate of Raina. On the table, the show’s logo — a hand forming a peace sign — now carries a noticeable addition: a handcuff, a clear nod to the legal trouble that engulfed the show’s first season.

Mahvash Says Yes to Samay

In a separate but related development, actor and former radio jockey RJ Mahvash has confirmed she will also appear as a guest on the new season. Speaking to Pinkvilla while promoting her web series Satrangi: Badle Ka Khel, Mahvash said Samay Raina personally invited her. “Samay asked me if I would attend the next season of his comedy show. And I told him I would definitely come for the show,” she said.

Mahvash rose to wider public attention last year amid unverified reports linking her to cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal. The two had unfollowed each other on Instagram, fuelling speculation. During the same interview, she flatly denied any romantic involvement. “No, there was nothing like that. I maintain friendships very well. At that time, he really needed a good friend,” she said, adding that unfollowing or social media breaks are common even among close friends.

‘Humans Do Make Mistakes’

Mahvash also addressed the controversy that derailed India’s Got Latent’s debut season, offering strong support to Raina and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia. She recalled how several digital creators — including Allahbadia — showed up unasked for the trailer launch of her first production, Section 108, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Regina Cassandra. “I didn’t know them personally. For me, Ranveer, Ashish, and all of them were big names, so I called them for the trailer launch, and they all showed up. For me, that is real friendship,” she said.

“I agree that they were wrong, but humans do make mistakes. So let’s not roast them further. I know them as humans, and they are great guys. They never cross their line and disrespect others,” Mahvash added.

The Controversy Recap

For context, India’s Got Latent ran into a storm in February 2025 after Allahbadia made a sexually suggestive remark about parents during an episode. The comment triggered massive social media outrage, multiple First Information Reports, and a summons from the National Commission for Women. Assam Police filed a case against Allahbadia, Raina, and other associated creators. Under pressure, Raina deleted all episodes from his YouTube channel, while Allahbadia issued a public apology. Raina later revealed on a podcast that he had attempted to record an apology video nine times before eventually giving up.

Comeback with a Handcuff Symbol

After months of silence, Raina marked his return with a stand-up special titled Still Alive, where he addressed the emotional toll of the controversy. The new season appears to acknowledge the legal ordeal openly — the handcuff on the show’s logo is unmistakable. The viral photo with Alia Bhatt suggests Raina is not downplaying the past but leaning into it, while also drawing mainstream film promotion.

Promotion for Alpha

Bhatt and Wagh are believed to have shot the episode as part of the promotional campaign for their upcoming Yash Raj Films spy thriller Alpha, which also stars Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol and is scheduled for release on July 10. A show known for edgy humour now doubling as a launchpad for a big-budget action film underlines the strange arc of India’s Got Latent — from a digital underdog, to a legal lightning rod, to a platform capable of pulling in Bollywood’s top names.

Raina has not yet officially announced the premiere date for the second season, nor has he confirmed the guest list. But with a photograph that has set the internet abuzz and Mahvash’s on-record confirmation, the show’s comeback appears to be gathering real momentum. For a property that was all but written off last year, a guest line-up featuring Alia Bhatt is about as loud a statement as one can make.

Mumbai has once again found itself at the center of a heated debate over language and identity after fresh directives made Marathi signboards mandatory for shops, hotels, and all commercial establishments across the city. According to the new guidelines, every business operating in Mumbai must prominently display signage in Marathi, reinforcing the state’s official language in public and commercial spaces.

The decision is being positioned as a cultural and administrative step aimed at strengthening the use of Marathi in Maharashtra’s financial capital. Authorities argue that since Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra, it is essential to ensure that the state language is clearly visible and given priority across public communication systems, including business signboards. Under the new directive, Marathi must be displayed in a prominent and readable manner on all shop and hotel signboards. While other languages such as Hindi and English may still be used, they are expected to be secondary in size and visibility. Officials have indicated that compliance will be monitored, and strict action may be taken against establishments that fail to follow the rules.

The announcement has triggered mixed reactions across political and business communities. Supporters of the policy believe it is a necessary step to preserve and promote Marathi identity in a rapidly globalizing city. They argue that local language visibility is essential for cultural preservation and helps reinforce regional pride among citizens. On the other hand, several traders’ associations and opposition voices have raised concerns about the practicality of the rule. Mumbai is known as one of India’s most linguistically diverse cities, where Hindi, English, Gujarati, Tamil, and several other languages are widely spoken in daily business operations. Critics argue that imposing strict signage rules could create additional financial and operational pressure on small and medium-sized businesses.

Business owners have pointed out that many establishments already use multilingual signboards, including Marathi. However, the new requirement to prioritize Marathi may require redesigning and replacing existing boards, leading to additional costs. For small shopkeepers and local hotel operators, especially in densely populated commercial areas, even minor modifications can become a financial burden.

Municipal authorities, however, maintain that this is not a sudden move but part of a long-standing effort to ensure linguistic balance in public spaces. Over the years, multiple reminders and guidelines have been issued encouraging the use of Marathi in official and commercial signage. The latest directive is seen as a stricter enforcement phase rather than a completely new policy. Political reactions have further intensified the issue. Some regional leaders have strongly supported the move, calling it an important step toward protecting Maharashtra’s cultural identity. They emphasize that businesses operating in the state should respect and reflect the local language in their public communication.

Meanwhile, critics argue that Mumbai’s strength lies in its diversity and cosmopolitan nature. They believe that any policy that appears to prioritize one language over others must be carefully balanced to avoid alienating non-Marathi speaking residents and business owners. According to them, the city’s economic growth is deeply tied to its multilingual workforce and inclusive environment.

Reports suggest that enforcement drives may soon be launched to inspect compliance across commercial areas. Authorities may begin with warnings and awareness campaigns before moving toward penalties for repeated violations. However, officials have also indicated that the initial focus will be on education and guidance rather than immediate punishment.

Experts observing the development say the issue reflects a broader tension between cultural preservation and economic practicality. While promoting regional language is seen as important for identity and heritage, it must be balanced with the realities of a diverse urban economy like Mumbai. In previous years as well, language-related policies have sparked similar debates in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai. The city’s unique position as a financial hub and cultural melting pot makes such regulations highly sensitive and often politically charged.

As the implementation phase unfolds, business owners and civic bodies will be closely watching how the rule is enforced on the ground. The impact on small traders, hotel operators, and retail chains will likely determine how smoothly the policy is accepted and adapted.

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Rewa Youth Found Hanging at Home Morning After Mumbai Return

22-year-old had eaten dinner with family hours before he died

A 22-year-old man allegedly died by suicide at his home in Silchat village under Gudh police station limits early Saturday morning, just hours after returning from Mumbai. Police have seized his mobile phone and are scanning call records and chat history.

The deceased has been identified as Raj Khan, son of Islam Khan alias Lallu. Family members told police that Raj had travelled from Maharashtra’s capital to the village on Friday night. He reached home around late evening, had dinner as usual, and went to his room.

No Immediate Warning

“He seemed normal. There was no argument, no distress he showed to anyone,” a relative said, requesting anonymity. The family stated that Raj spoke briefly about work in Mumbai but did not indicate any personal or financial trouble.

Around morning on Saturday, when relatives knocked on his door and got no response, they entered to find him hanging from a ceiling noose. The room was locked from inside. Local villagers gathered quickly after hearing cries from the house.

Police Begin Probe

Gudh police reached the spot after being alerted by the family. Officials have conducted a panchnama and sent the body for post-mortem to the district hospital.

“Prima facie, it appears to be a case of suicide. No suicide note has been recovered so far. We are analysing his mobile phone data, including his recent calls and messages from Mumbai and after his return,” said a police officer at Gudh station.

Authorities have not ruled out any angle, including personal or professional stress. Initial reports suggest Raj had been working in Mumbai for some time, but details of his employment remain unclear.

 Family in Shock

The sudden death has left the family and neighbours devastated. “He had just returned. Nobody expected this,” a neighbour said. The lack of any apparent trigger has deepened the mystery for investigators.

Police are also speaking to family members to understand if Raj had any previous history of depression or emotional distress. Officials confirmed no foul play is suspected at this stage, but all angles remain open.

Phone Key to Investigation

Sources familiar with the matter said investigators are focusing heavily on Raj’s mobile phone. “Sometimes, critical details emerge from deleted messages or last calls made before the person returned home. We are waiting for forensic extraction,” another official added.

The phone has been seized and will be sent for digital analysis if needed. Police have also begun recording statements from family and close friends.

What Happens Next

Post-mortem reports are expected within 24 hours. Police said further action will depend on autopsy findings and digital evidence. No arrest has been made. The case remains under investigation.

Residents of Silchat village have urged authorities to look into possible reasons such as financial or relationship pressure. Gudh police have asked anyone with information to come forward.

Markets bleed as Iran conflict escalates; Rupee hits historic low of 95.43

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty plunged in Tuesday’s trade as fresh military strikes in the Gulf region sent shockwaves through global markets, driving the rupee to a record low and crude prices higher.

Indian equity markets faced a wave of heavy selling on Tuesday morning, with the BSE Sensex crashing over 600 points to slip below the crucial 77,000 mark. The Nifty50 followed suit, tumbling 140 points to trade under 24,000 as investors reacted to escalating tensions between US and Iranian forces in the West Asia region.

The sell-off was exacerbated by the Indian rupee, which plummeted 20 paise to hit an all-time low of 95.43 against the US dollar. Forex dealers noted that the breach of the 95-level has triggered panic among importers, while foreign investors continue to pull capital out of emerging markets in favor of the "safe-haven" greenback.

Conflict in the Gulf rattles Dalal Street

The primary trigger for the market rout is the reported exchange of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. Initial reports indicate that US military forces intercepted Iranian drones and cruise missiles targeting shipping lanes, leading to fears of a complete blockade of the world’s most vital oil chokepoint.

The geopolitical uncertainty has ended the brief optimism seen on Monday following domestic state election results. While the market initially cheered policy continuity, that sentiment has been completely overshadowed by the risk of a prolonged energy crisis.

Brent crude nears $114 per barrel

For an oil-dependent economy like India, the spike in global crude prices is the biggest concern. Brent crude rose toward $114 per barrel on Tuesday morning. Market analysts warn that if the Strait of Hormuz remains contested, prices could easily test the $120 mark, further widening India's current account deficit.

"The market was already on edge, but the latest military activity in the Gulf has changed the risk calculus," said a senior research head at a Mumbai-based brokerage. "We are seeing a flight to safety, and the pressure on the rupee is making the situation even more volatile for FIIs."

Banking and Finance stocks lead the fall

Inside the 30-stock Sensex pack, the pain was widespread. Heavyweights like Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank, and Bajaj Finserv were among the top losers, shedding up to 2% in early deals. Out of the 30 Sensex stocks, only 12 managed to trade in the green, primarily in the defensive IT and Pharma sectors.

The midcap and smallcap segments, which often see higher volatility, were also trading with significant cuts as retail investors turned cautious.

Foreign investors continue selling spree

The pressure on the markets is being fueled by persistent selling by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs). Data shows that over the last seven days, FIIs have offloaded shares worth ₹7,681 crore. This trend has been consistent throughout early 2026, with over $20 billion pulled out of Indian equities and bonds as global risk aversion peaks.

While Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) have attempted to support the market with net buying of over ₹10,000 crore in the same period, their efforts have been insufficient to stem the tide of the global sell-off.

Outlook remains tied to West Asia

Market participants are now keeping a close watch on the situation in West Asia and the upcoming Q4FY26 earnings season. Any further escalation in the Gulf could lead to another leg of the downward movement.

"Until there is clarity on the safety of the shipping routes, we expect the markets to remain in a 'sell on rise' mode," a floor trader noted. "The immediate support for Nifty is now at the 23,800 level, and if that breaks, we could see deeper cuts."

Rewa-Mumbai Superfast Train Flagged Off; Direct Connectivity to Aid Patients and Students

The launch of the Rewa-Mumbai-Rewa Superfast weekly service fulfills a long-standing demand of the Vindhya region, eliminating the need for passengers to change trains at Jabalpur or Itarasi.

Direct rail link established

Rewa Railway Station witnessed a landmark moment as the Rewa-Mumbai-Rewa Superfast Weekly Special Train (Train No. 20153/54) was officially flagged off for regular operations. The inaugural ceremony, led by the local Member of Parliament, marks the culmination of years of advocacy by residents for a direct link to India’s financial capital.

Landmark win for Vindhya

The introduction of this service has sparked widespread enthusiasm across the region. Speaking at the event, MP Janardan Mishra expressed his gratitude toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for prioritizing this corridor. He noted that the direct service is not merely a transport link but a lifeline for the socio-economic upliftment of Rewa and neighboring districts.

Medical travel made easier

One of the most significant impacts of the Rewa-Mumbai Superfast Train is expected to be in the healthcare sector. Mumbai serves as a premier medical hub for the country, and residents of the Vindhya region frequently travel there for advanced treatments. "Patients can now reach specialized hospitals without the physical strain of switching trains, saving both critical time and resources," officials noted during the launch.

Opportunities for local youth

Beyond healthcare, the train is set to open new doors for the younger demographic. As Mumbai remains a core destination for higher education and diverse job markets, the direct connectivity will facilitate smoother transit for students and job seekers. The Member of Parliament emphasized that this ease of movement would allow local talent to compete more effectively on a national stage.

Boosting trade and tourism

The business community has welcomed the move, anticipating a surge in commercial activity. By linking the local markets of Madhya Pradesh directly to Mumbai’s massive consumer base, the rail service is expected to provide a platform for local products. Furthermore, it is likely to attract more tourists to the scenic and historical sites of the Vindhya region, boosting the local hospitality sector.

Weekly schedule and route

According to the latest India News Update, the superfast service will operate once a week, covering a distance of approximately 1,235 kilometers in about 20 hours. The train departs Rewa at 3:50 PM, arriving at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) at 12:20 PM the following day. On its return leg, it leaves Mumbai at 1:30 PM and reaches Rewa at 9:45 AM.

Key stops and impact

The train will navigate through vital junctions including Satna, Maihar, Katni, Jabalpur, Itarsi, Khandwa, Bhusawal, Nashik, and Kalyan. This strategic routing ensures that multiple industrial and pilgrimage hubs are interconnected. As per this English News Portal India report, the new service is being viewed as a milestone in the regional development of Madhya Pradesh, strengthening the national transport grid.

Future infrastructure outlook

This launch is part of a broader series of Government Updates aimed at enhancing rail infrastructure in non-metropolitan zones. With the Rewa-Mumbai Superfast Train now operational, residents are hopeful for increased frequencies and further expansion of the Rewa terminal.

Former Raymond Chairman Vijaypat Singhania passes away at 87; last rites in Mumbai today

The visionary industrialist and aviator breathed his last early Sunday; son Gautam Singhania confirms the news via social media.

Vijaypat Singhania, the former Chairman of the Raymond Group and a pioneering figure in India’s textile industry, passed away on Sunday at the age of 87. The news of his demise was shared by his son, Gautam Singhania, through a poignant post on social media platform X.

The veteran industrialist’s last rites are scheduled to be performed today at 3:00 PM at the Chandanwadi crematorium in Mumbai. Family sources and company officials indicated that the industry veteran had been dealing with age-related health issues for some time.

Visionary leader passes away

Gautam Singhania, in his tribute, described his father as a "visionary leader and philanthropist" whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations. The announcement marks the end of an era for the Raymond Group, which became a household name under Vijaypat’s leadership.

Born on October 10, 1938, Vijaypat Singhania was instrumental in transforming Raymond from a woollen mill into a global lifestyle brand. His tenure as Managing Director saw the company diversify into engineering, aviation, and high-end retail.

Architect of modern Raymond

Vijaypat took the reins of the company in 1980, steering it through a period of rapid modernization. He is credited with launching the premium brand 'Park Avenue' in 1986, which redefined the wardrobe of the urban Indian male.

By 1990, he had taken the brand international, opening the first overseas showroom in Oman. His business acumen was matched by his passion for technology, ensuring Raymond remained a market leader for decades in the suiting and shirting segment.

High-flying adventurer and aviator

Beyond the boardroom, Singhania was an avid aviator who held several world records. In 1988, he completed a solo flight from London to New Delhi in a microlight aircraft, a feat that lasted 23 days.

In 2005, at the age of 67, he set a world record by reaching an altitude of approximately 69,000 feet in a hot air balloon. His 5,000 hours of flight experience led the Indian Air Force to confer upon him the rank of Honorary Air Commodore.

National honors and recognition

The Government of India recognized his contributions to industry and society by awarding him the Padma Bhushan in 2006. He was also a recipient of the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award for his daring exploits in the skies.

In addition to his corporate roles, he served as the Sheriff of Mumbai in 2006. He also penned his experiences in a book titled 'An Angel in a Cockpit', detailing his solo flight from the UK to India.

Complex family legacy remains

In recent years, the senior Singhania was frequently in the news due to a highly publicized legal and personal dispute with his son, Gautam, over property and control of the family estate. After handing over the company reins in 2015, the relationship between the two soured significantly.

Despite a brief appearance of reconciliation in March 2024, when Gautam posted a photo with his father at JK House, Vijaypat later dismissed the meeting as forced. These developments had remained a subject of intense public interest across India News Update cycles.

Future of the textile giant

Industry experts suggest that while the personal rift was public, Vijaypat’s professional blueprint remains the foundation of the current Raymond Group. His focus on quality and retail expansion allowed the brand to penetrate deep into the Indian market.

As Mumbai prepares for his final journey, the business community continues to pour in tributes for the man who taught India what it meant to be "The Complete Man."