Author: Rasmita Jena

  • Anubhav Singh Bassi’s Shows Canceled Amid Controversy Over Jokes

    Anubhav Singh Bassi’s Shows Canceled Amid Controversy Over Jokes

    Stand-up comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi had his shows in Lucknow canceled by the police because of worries about safety and respect for women. The cancellation came after a letter from the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission. They asked the police to stop his shows to avoid comments that might offend women.

    Aparna Yadav, the vice-chairperson, wrote to the police Chief on February 14, saying that his past performances used inappropriate language. She wanted the police to make sure that Bassi’s show, scheduled for February 15, would not have any disrespectful jokes or comments about women.

    Bassi, known for his role in the movie Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar, was set to perform twice in Lucknow that Saturday. Aparna Yadav mentioned recent comments made by another comedian, Ranveer Allahbadia, on a show called India’s Got Latent. She said jokes that insult mothers and sisters aren’t necessary for entertainment.

    Police officer Radha Raman Singh explained that they denied permission for the shows because of safety concerns. He was worried about possible protests and trouble if people didn’t like the content.

    This cancellation has sparked discussions online, with many on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) expressing their opinions. Some feel that real comedians should be able to perform without fear, while others support the decision, saying such jokes should be stopped.

    This situation follows the problems caused by Ranveer’s recent remarks on his show, where he joked about sensitive topics, leading to legal complaints against him and his fellow comedians. After facing threats, Ranveer spoke out about receiving death threats, and one comedian, Apoorva, has also reported harassment online.

  • CSK IPL 2025: Full Match Schedule & Highlights!

    CSK IPL 2025: Full Match Schedule & Highlights!

    The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), champions five times, are ready to start their IPL 2025 journey! Their first big match is against the Mumbai Indians on March 23 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After that, the two teams will meet again on April 20 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.

    This year, CSK will play four of their first six games at home. Last season, under captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team didn’t make it to the playoffs. They finished fifth with seven wins and seven losses.

    The IPL 2025 season will kick off with a thrilling match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22. This same stadium will host the grand final on May 25!

    Here’s a quick look at CSK’s upcoming matches:

    – March 23 (7:30 PM IST): vs. Mumbai Indians (Home)
    – March 28: vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Home)
    – March 30: vs. Rajasthan Royals (Away in Guwahati)
    – April 5 (3:30 PM IST): vs. Delhi Capitals (Home)
    – April 8: vs. Punjab Kings (Away in New Chandigarh)
    – April 11: vs. Kolkata Knight Riders (Home)
    – April 14: vs. Lucknow Super Giants (Away in Lucknow)
    – April 20: vs. Mumbai Indians (Away in Mumbai)
    – April 25: vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad (Home)
    – April 30: vs. Punjab Kings (Home)
    – May 3: vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Away in Bengaluru)
    – May 7: vs. Kolkata Knight Riders (Away in Kolkata)
    – May 18: vs. Gujarat Titans (Away in Ahmedabad)
    – May 12: vs. Rajasthan Royals (Home)

    The playoffs will start on May 20 in Hyderabad with Qualifier 1. Then, there will be an Eliminator on May 21 at the same place, and Qualifier 2 will be on May 23 in Kolkata. The IPL 2025 final will take place on May 25 at Eden Gardens.

  • California’s Earthquake Alert: Is The Big One Approaching?

    California’s Earthquake Alert: Is The Big One Approaching?

    California might be getting ready for a big earthquake soon, often called “The Big One.” This earthquake could happen along the San Andreas Fault, one of the state’s busiest and most famous fault lines. If it hits a strong 7.8 magnitude or more, it could cause serious damage in places like Southern California or the San Francisco Bay Area, depending on where the earthquake happens.

    Growing Worries

    California sits on many active fault lines, making it likely to have earthquakes. Right now, pressure is building along the San Andreas Fault and others, which makes experts worry that a big earthquake could happen soon, especially in the southern part of the state. If this earthquake does occur, it could hurt buildings and homes, making it really important for everyone to be ready.

    In recent days, California felt at least nine earthquakes, which is raising alarm bells. The strongest one was a 4.3 magnitude quake near Avenal on February 13. There were also three smaller quakes in Hayward—a place known for faults—measuring 3.2, 3.3, and 2.6. The Hayward Fault had a major earthquake back in 1868, and it remains a big threat today.

    Tremors ranging from 2.5 to 3.7 magnitudes were felt in Pleasant Hill, Petrolia, Anderson Springs, and Malibu. The Malibu quake was noticed across Los Angeles and Ventura counties, making people worry even more about a larger quake coming.

    Expert Opinions

    According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), there is a 36% chance of a strong 7.5 magnitude or greater earthquake hitting Southern California in the next 30 years. Professor Jonathan Stewart from UCLA says that stress has been building on the San Andreas Fault, especially in the southern part, which hasn’t had a major quake since 1690.

    A massive earthquake of 8 magnitude could lead to around 1,800 deaths, 50,000 injuries, and about $200 billion in damages, according to the California Earthquake Authority. Even though California is trying hard to stay safe with stronger buildings and preparation plans, there are still weak spots, especially in water and infrastructure systems.

    Experts say a major quake isn’t guaranteed to happen right away, but they warn people not to ignore the risks. The state is keeping an eye on things and shares real-time updates through USGS to keep everyone informed.

  • Deported Dreams: Young Migrants Return from Failed US Journey

    Deported Dreams: Young Migrants Return from Failed US Journey

    Many young people dreamed of a better life in the United States and left their homes for that chance. Families sold their land, took loans, and made huge sacrifices to help them go abroad. Sadly, instead of discovering new opportunities, they found themselves back in Amritsar on a US military plane, deported and feeling lost about the future.

    In this latest group of deportees, 65 were from Punjab, 33 from Haryana, and a few from other states like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. Sourav, a 20-year-old from Chandiwala village, returned home on Sunday after being caught trying to cross the border on January 27. He had left on December 17, hoping to start a new life in America. “We were held in a detention center for 18 days,” Sourav said, explaining that their mobile phones were taken away and that they were told they would be moved to another camp before being put on a plane back to India.

    Sourav’s family sold two acres of land and borrowed a lot of money to support his journey, spending around ₹45-46 lakh. The route to the US took him through Amsterdam, Panama, and Mexico, only to end in detention.

    Harjit Singh, from Khanowal Ghuman village, had also hoped for a better life with his cousin. Instead, they returned home handcuffed. “We were caught trying to cross the US border on January 27 and kept in a detention center for 18 days. We were deported on February 13, chained and handcuffed,” he said, feeling deep disappointment. His family spent ₹90 lakh, which feels like a lot of money wasted.

    Mantaj Singh, a 22-year-old from Bodal village, also faced troubles at the US border. He took a risky route called the “donkey route,” often used by illegal migrants, trusting people who only saw him as a way to make money.

    In Behbal Bahadur village, Sahil Preet Singh’s family used all their savings—about ₹40-45 lakh—to send him abroad. His mother, Harvinder Kaur, said they sold their land and pawned jewelry, only to be tricked by a dishonest travel agent. “We were cheated,” she cried, hoping the government would help her son and take action against the agent.

    Another young man, Jaswinder Singh from Dharamkot village, had also raised money by selling land. After nearly 45 days of trying to reach the US, he and his family returned empty-handed, victims of lies from the person they trusted.

    Their experiences echo the stories of many others. When the first group of deportees arrived in Amritsar on February 5, their tales were almost the same. They all sought a better life, but returned home feeling defeated, caught in a system that exploits hope and desperation.

  • RBI Stops Kotak Mahindra Bank from Issuing Online Credit Cards

    RBI Stops Kotak Mahindra Bank from Issuing Online Credit Cards

    For the last 10 months, Kotak Mahindra Bank has been big news — and not in a good way! The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has stopped the bank from giving out online credit cards and from letting customers sign up online or through their app.

    Most people think that big banks like Kotak have everything under control when it comes to online services and rules. But this situation shows that even large banks can have serious problems. You probably didn’t know this because it seems like a surprise for many.

  • Confusion Sparks Deadly Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station”

    Confusion Sparks Deadly Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station”

    On Saturday night, a terrible stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in the deaths of 18 people. The chaos was caused by confusion over two trains with similar names: Prayagraj Express and Prayagraj Special. The Prayagraj Special was set to arrive at Platform 16, which confused passengers waiting for the Prayagraj Express at Platform 14.

    Because of the announcement, many passengers rushed to Platform 16, thinking they were missing their train. This caused overcrowding and led to a stampede. Thousands of people were at the station, many of whom were traveling to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival, creating even more excitement and confusion.

    At the same time, four trains were scheduled to leave for Prayagraj, but three of them were delayed, adding to the number of travelers at the station. Passengers who could not board the Prayagraj Express began running towards other platforms, leading to a chaotic situation.

    In response to the tragedy, Delhi Police held a meeting to discuss the incident and has begun an investigation. The Indian Railways has promised to compensate the families of those who died with Rs 10 lakh (1 million) each. For seriously injured passengers, compensation of Rs 2.5 lakh (250,000), and Rs 1 lakh (100,000) for those with minor injuries has also been announced.

  • Supreme Court: Workplace Criticism Is Not a Crime

    Supreme Court: Workplace Criticism Is Not a Crime

    The Supreme Court has decided that when a boss gives criticism at work, it doesn’t count as an intentional insult that leads to criminal charges. The court explained that this kind of action could cause serious problems in the workplace, making it hard for everyone to do their jobs properly.

    A panel of justices, Sanjay Karol and Sandeep Mehta, stated that simply being rude, disrespectful, or mean does not qualify as an intentional insult under a specific law known as Section 504 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). This law deals with insults that aim to provoke a fight or cause trouble. The law carries a penalty of up to two years in jail, but it will soon be replaced by a new law from July 2024.

    This ruling came when the court canceled a 2022 case against the acting director of the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. The director was accused of insulting an assistant professor for complaining about him. The professor also claimed the director did not provide enough personal protective equipment (PPE), risking the health of everyone during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    However, the Supreme Court found that the accusations were more guesses than real proof. The court said that the boss’s criticism was part of keeping things in line at work, which is expected. The justices emphasized that every person in charge should expect their team to work sincerely and with commitment.

  • Excavation Planned at Kurkihar: A Journey into Ancient Bihar’s History

    Excavation Planned at Kurkihar: A Journey into Ancient Bihar’s History

    Patna: The Archaeological Survey of India’s Patna Circle wants to dig at Kurkihar village in Bihar’s Gaya district to find hidden treasures and learn about the area’s history. Kurkihar is located about 5 km northeast of Wazirganj and 27 km east of Gaya. It is thought to have been an ancient city and a Buddhist monastery.

    In the past, a famous archaeologist named Alexander Cunningham visited Kurkihar in the 1800s. He found many Buddhist sculptures and votive stupas (small shrines). Cunningham, who explored many historical sites like Sarnath and Sanchi, was the first director of the Archaeological Survey of India.

    Sujeet Nayan, the Superintending Archaeologist for the Patna Circle, confirmed they are seeking permission to start digging at Kurkihar. Other archaeologists have also noted the site’s importance over the years. According to Nayan, Kurkihar has a large mound of bricks and remains of a significant monastery that is about 25 feet tall.

    In 1930, a historian named K P Jayaswal discovered about 226 bronze sculptures in Kurkihar, which ended up in museums, including Patna Museum. The area holds valuable historical treasures that need proper exploration. Some stone statues from the Pala period have also been found, and some are still worshipped at a local temple.

    Additionally, there are many inscriptions on the bronze sculptures related to rulers of the Pala dynasty that ruled from the 9th Century to 1074 AD. One inscription mentions a popular monastery called Apanaka that attracted visitors from far-off places. Nayan believes there is much more to uncover at Kurkihar.

  • Eight Gujaratis Deported from US Return Home: A Heartfelt Reunion

    Eight Gujaratis Deported from US Return Home: A Heartfelt Reunion

    A plane that brought back eight people from Gujarat, who were deported from the US for staying there illegally, landed at Ahmedabad airport on Sunday morning. The flight arrived from Amritsar at 11 am. After they landed, police helped take these deportees to their homes in Gujarat. Among them was a woman and a child.

    These eight people were part of a larger group of 116 Indians who were sent back to India on a US military plane that had landed in Amritsar the night before. Out of the eight deportees, three were from Gandhinagar and one was from Ahmedabad. They are from the second group of Indians who have been sent home after former President Donald Trump started a crackdown on illegal immigrants.

    In a previous incident on February 5, another US military plane brought 104 illegal immigrants to Amritsar, which sparked criticism from many people. Among those were 33 individuals from Gujarat. A third plane carrying 157 more deportees was also expected to arrive in Amritsar on Sunday.

    Former Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel expressed sympathy for the deported Gujaratis, stating that many of them went to find jobs or careers, and they should not be seen as criminals.

  • Chhaava’: Vicky Kaushal’s Epic Film Earns ₹100 Crore in Just 2 Days!

    Chhaava’: Vicky Kaushal’s Epic Film Earns ₹100 Crore in Just 2 Days!

    Vicky Kaushal’s new movie, “Chhaava,” has become a big hit in Bollywood, earning over ₹100 crore (about $12 million) globally in just two days! The film, which is a historical action movie about the brave Maratha ruler Sambhaji Maharaj, made ₹68 crore (around $8 million) in India alone. Internationally, it pulled in more than $2 million (roughly ₹19 crore).

    “Chhaava” is the second Hindi film of 2025 to make over ₹100 crore, following Akshay Kumar’s movie “Sky Force.” The great response at the box office suggests that “Chhaava” might soon surpass the total earnings of “Sky Force.”

    The movie has been especially popular in Maharashtra, where Sambhaji Maharaj is seen as a hero. In many theaters, the occupancy rate is above 70%, and some places even report up to 97% full seats at night shows. Because of the high demand, additional shows are being added, like early 6 am and midnight screenings!

    “Chhaava” stars Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj and Akshaye Khanna as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, along with Rashmika Mandanna and Divya Dutta. While some critics loved the acting, they felt the story moved a bit slowly.