HYDERABAD
Hyderabad-based Culinary Academy of India pays tribute to grandmasters with Chessboard made of chocolate
The chess board’s king piece has a height of 3 feet and to ensure the chess pieces remain standing, they were reinforced with armature for stability Hyderabad: The Hyderabad-based Culinary Academy of India (CAI) paid a tribute to the achievements of Indian chess grandmasters including the recently crowned youngest World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju by unveiling a huge chess board weighing 550 kilograms, fully made up of rich dark and white chocolate, which is being billed as the largest in the World. The chocolate chess board was 16 feet X 16 feet in dimension, occupying 256 square feet of space. The chess board’s king piece has a height of 3 feet and to ensure the chess pieces remain standing, they were reinforced with armature for stability, according to a press release. “The challenge was to maintain the ideal temperature for delicate pieces, as chocolate tends to soften in warmer conditions. Over 50…
BUSINESS
New EV brand ‘Youdha’ autorickshaws launched by Lohia Auto
The E5 passenger three-wheeler is designed for urban and semi-urban commuting, focusing on space and efficiency, while the E5 cargo model offers a reliable and sustainable solution for logistics Mumbai: Lohia Auto on Monday announced the launch of EV brand ‘Youdha’ as part of its Rs 20-crore expansion plans and said it looks to manufacture and sell 3 lakh electric vehicles under the brand by 2027. The initial product portfolio of ‘Youdha’ includes passenger and cargo segment electric three-wheelers, the company said. With this portfolio, the new brand aims to cater to the diverse needs of the electric three-wheeler segment, Lohia Auto said. “With ‘Youdha’, we are not just creating electric three-wheelers; we are empowering India’s real warriors. Our mission is to honour those who work tirelessly for their families, achieve their dreams, and move forward with unwavering determination,” said Ayush Lohia, CEO of Youdha. The E5 passenger three-wheeler is designed…
TECHNOLOGY
Massive ocean circling a quasar found in deep space
The quasar, named APM 08279 5255, contains water vapour equating to 140 trillion times the volume of Earth’s oceans Hyderabad: Astronomers have uncovered a colossal water reservoir circling a quasar over 12 billion light-years away, a discovery that sheds light on the universe’s distant past. This quasar, named APM 08279 5255, surrounds a supermassive black hole that’s 20 billion times more massive than our Sun and emits energy equivalent to a thousand trillion suns. This extraordinary system contains water vapour equating to 140 trillion times the volume of Earth’s oceans, making it the largest and farthest known water source in the universe. The quasar’s environment is unique, emitting hydrogen-rich gases like water vapour and carbon monoxide, and creating a region hundreds of light-years wide. Despite the gas being sparse by Earth’s standards, it is surprisingly warm and dense compared to typical galactic conditions. This suggests intense radiation from the quasar keeps…
TECHNOLOGY
Beware of formjacking
Cyberattack which includes details like credit card numbers, login credentials, or personal identification data to steal the information is known as formjacking Formjacking is a type of cyberattack in which hackers inject malicious code into a website’s forms, such as payment forms or login pages, to steal sensitive user information. This can include details like credit card numbers, login credentials, or personal identification data. Mechanism: Hackers gain access to a website and insert malicious scripts, typically JavaScript, into its forms. When a user submits their information on the form, such as during a payment or login process, the malicious code quietly captures the data. The captured data is sent to an external server controlled by the attackers without the knowledge of either the user or the website owner. The attackers may later use this stolen information for identity theft, fraud, or other illegal activities. Formjacking is difficult to spot because it doesn’t require a complete…
BUSINESS
Can a smartwatch be the target of a cyber attack?
Smartwatches can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, including data breaches, malware, and Bluetooth exploits. Using strong security features helps protect data. Stay secure—learn more about protecting your smartwatch from cyber threats! Hyderabad: Smartwatches might be good for tracking steps and heartrates, but they can also offer hackers a wealth of personal information to exploit. These devices allow people to track their health, monitor their fitness, conduct medical tests and more but often use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, which sacrifices security for low energy consumption. While they are generally designed with security features, vulnerabilities still exist, making them susceptible to certain types of cyber threats. 1. Data breachesSmartwatches often store personal information like location data, health metrics (heart rate, steps, sleep patterns), and sometimes sensitive information like messages and notifications. If compromised, this data can be accessed by attackers. 2. Hacking and unauthorised accessSmartwatches are connected to smartphones via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, creating…
SPORTS
Vinod Kambli in critical condition: Former Cricketer rushed to hospital after health crisis
Kambli was recently in the news when he attended a memorial event for his mentor, Ramakant Achrekar, and was spotted struggling and sitting in a wheelchair. The former star spoke about his health battle, where he said that he had been suffering from a serious urine infection. He appreciated the support of his wife, children, and former teammate Ajay Jadeja, who visited him during his health scare. Hyderabad: Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli, 52 years old, was admitted to Akriti Hospital in Thane. His health went drastically wrong over the weekend. Known for his cricketing feats and amiable rapport with Sachin Tendulkar, Vinod was admitted to a hospital at night on Saturday. As of now, doctors are optimistic about the former cricketer’s condition, stating he remains critical, and therefore, is continuously under close observation. Kambli was recently in the news when he attended a memorial event for his mentor, Ramakant Achrekar,…
SPORTS
Hyderabad: Naveen hits ton in Amberpet’s big win
Batting first, Naveen’s knock (31×4, 1×6) and Sai Sandeep’s 76 powered Amberpet to 415/8 in 40 overs. Hyderabad: Naveen smashed a blistering 177 off 108 balls in Amberpet’s massive 247-run victory over Vijaynagar in the HCA C Division One Day League Championship on Monday. Batting first, Naveen’s knock (31×4, 1×6) and Sai Sandeep’s 76 powered Amberpet to 415/8 in 40 overs. In reply, Vijaynagar managed only 168/5 in their 40 overs, with Tajdar top-scoring with an unbeaten 60. Brief Scores: HCA C Division One Day League: Consult 264/6 in 44 overs (Karan 95, Trishul 82) bt Cosmos 135 in 19.4 overs (Eetesh 98 no, Sai Manish 3/39); Amberpet 415/8 in 40 overs (Naveen 177, Sai Sandeep 76, Anish 3/48) bt Vijaynagar 168/5 in 40 overs (Tajdar 60 no), Young Citizen 264/8 in 45 overs (Sarath 96, Dhruva 3/38) bt Swastik Union 111 in 38 overs (Sai Smaran 40, M Akash 3/24);…
SPORTS
Hyderabad: Naveen hits ton in Amberpet’s big win
Batting first, Naveen’s knock (31×4, 1×6) and Sai Sandeep’s 76 powered Amberpet to 415/8 in 40 overs. Hyderabad: Naveen smashed a blistering 177 off 108 balls in Amberpet’s massive 247-run victory over Vijaynagar in the HCA C Division One Day League Championship on Monday. Batting first, Naveen’s knock (31×4, 1×6) and Sai Sandeep’s 76 powered Amberpet to 415/8 in 40 overs. In reply, Vijaynagar managed only 168/5 in their 40 overs, with Tajdar top-scoring with an unbeaten 60. Brief Scores: HCA C Division One Day League: Consult 264/6 in 44 overs (Karan 95, Trishul 82) bt Cosmos 135 in 19.4 overs (Eetesh 98 no, Sai Manish 3/39); Amberpet 415/8 in 40 overs (Naveen 177, Sai Sandeep 76, Anish 3/48) bt Vijaynagar 168/5 in 40 overs (Tajdar 60 no), Young Citizen 264/8 in 45 overs (Sarath 96, Dhruva 3/38) bt Swastik Union 111 in 38 overs (Sai Smaran 40, M Akash 3/24);…
SPORTS
Oakridge and Future Kids triumph in thrilling Basketball league finals in Hyderabad
In the finals, Oakridge defeated Chirec International School 75-61 to win the boys’ title, while Future Kids overcame Delhi Public School 47-24 to emerge as champions in the girls’ final. Hyderabad: Oakridge International School and Future Kids clinched the boys’ and girls’ titles, respectively, in the Varsity Basketball School for Boys & Girls League Championship at Dream Basketball Academy, Madhapur, Hyderabad, on Sunday. In the finals, Oakridge defeated Chirec International School 75-61 to win the boys’ title, while Future Kids overcame Delhi Public School 47-24 to emerge as champions in the girls’ final. Results: Finals: Boys: Oakridge International School 75 bt Chirec International School 61; Girls: Future Kids 47 bt Delhi Public School 24; 3rd Place: Boys: Future Kids 57 bt Fiitjee 44; Girls: Phoenix Greens 50 bt Silver Oaks 36; Semifinals: Boys: Oakridge International School 74 bt Future Kids 57; Chirec International School 40 bt Fitjee 22; Girls: Future Kids 41…
ENTERTAINMENT
Season 2 of ‘Paatal Lok’ starring Jaideep, Ishwak and Gul to release on January 17
New season of the crime-thriller series, which delves deep into the underbelly of Indian society, plunges lead character of Hathi Ram Chaudhary and his team into an uncharted territory, a perilous “fresh hell” that will test them like never before The crime-thriller series ‘Paatal Lok’ is set to return with its second season on January 17 on OTT. The series, which stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh and Gul Panag, delves deep into the underbelly of the Indian society. It cast a spell on the audiences owing to its gripping narrative in season 1. The new season also sees the entry of new characters essayed by Tillotama Shome, Nagesh Kukunoor, and Jahnu Barua. Sudip Sharma, creator and showrunner of the series, said in a statement, “I am thrilled to continue our long-standing association with Prime Video and present the much-awaited second season of ‘Paatal Lok’, a series which has been highly appreciated by viewers and has truly redefined the entertainment landscape. The overwhelming response to the first season filled me with immense gratitude and inspired me to craft…
ENTERTAINMENT
Telangana Exhibitors’ Association Chairman Vijender Reddy welcomes State govt’s decision not to increase ticket prices
Hailing the decision made Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, the association extended support to the government’s decision at a press conference held at the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce. Hyderabad: The Telangana Exhibitors’ Association on Monday, welcomed the State government’s decision to not increase ticket prices and give permissions for special shows. Hailing the decision made Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, the association extended support to the government’s decision at a press conference held at the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce. Prominent members of the Telangana Exhibitors’ Association expressed support for the policy. Association Chairman Vijender Reddy highlighted the confusion caused by fluctuating ticket prices, noting, “Different rates for different movies are inconveniencing viewers. Fixed and affordable ticket prices will encourage middle-class individuals, students, and fans to return to theatres.” He emphasized that the decision has already rejuvenated the theatre business. Andhra…
ENTERTAINMENT
KJo says he had super time at ‘showman’ Karan Aujla’s concert
Karan reshared a video on his Instagram stories, originally posted by actor Neha Dhupia, with whom he attended the concert. The clip had Aujla singing on stage, while Karan was in the VIP area dancing Karan Johar heaped praise on Punjabi music sensation Karan Aujla’s concert in Mumbai, tagging him as a “showman”, and said that the filmmaker had a super time. Karan reshared a video on his Instagram stories, originally posted by actor Neha Dhupia, with whom he attended the concert. The clip had Aujla singing on stage, while Karan was in the VIP area dancing. In the background, comedian, singer, and actor Munawar Faruqui can be seen dancing alongside the filmmaker. He wrote on the re-shared post: “Tauba tauba I had a super time at the Karan Aujla concert !!! He’s such a showman!!! Thanks Neha (sic).” Neha, too, shared several moments from the concert. The video featuring Aujla performing on the stage was captioned: “Making waves … from one karan to the other @karanjohar @karanaujla (sic).” She then shared a picture posing for a selfie with KJo and wrote: “Our last one 2024!!! Making it count @karanjohar @karanaujla.” Talking about the filmmaker, last week, Karan shared his resolution for 2025 with his friends and fans on social media. Karan took to Instagram stories,…
ENTERTAINMENT
Anil Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor remember Surinder Kapoor on his 99th birth anniversary
Anil shared a series of vintage monochrome photos on Instagram, featuring his father alongside legendary icons like Raj Kapoor, RD Burman, Shashi Kapoor, and Parveen Babi, while Sonam reflected on cherished memories and the impact her grandfather had on her life Sonam Kapoor remembers her beloved ‘dadu’ Surinder Kapoor on what would have been his 99th birthday on Monday, December 23. The actor took to her Instagram stories to reflect on the cherished memories and the impact her grandfather had on her life. Sonam shared a black-and-white photo of her grandfather and wrote, “Happy, happy birthday, dadu..miss you.” Anil Kapoor also paid a heartfelt tribute to his late father, a renowned producer. The ‘Mr. India’ star fondly remembered him, highlighting that his simplicity, honesty, and joyful nature not only defined who he was but also gave meaning to his life. Anil shared a series of vintage monochrome photos on Instagram, featuring his father alongside legendary icons like Raj Kapoor, RD Burman, Shashi Kapoor, and Parveen Babi, among many others. For the caption, he wrote, “Celebrating my dad’s 99th birthday…
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Chinni’ lyrical video from Nandamuri Balakrishna’s ‘Daaku Maharaaj’ is out now
Penned by Ananth Sriram, the lyrics seamlessly blend melody with a nostalgic school rhyme, creating an emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. Vishal Mishra’s vocals elevate the track, turning it into a heartfelt ballad that tugs at the heartstrings The lyrical video of ‘Chinni’, the second single from Nandamuri Balakrishna’s highly-anticipated upcoming film, ‘Daaku Maharaaj’, has been unveiled, offering audiences a heartwarming glimpse into the emotional and playful bond between Balayya and a young girl. This soulful melody beautifully captures the essence of innocence, care and protection, making it a perfect addition to the film’s music album. Penned by Anantha Sriram, the lyrics seamlessly blend melody with a nostalgic school rhyme, creating an emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. Vishal Mishra’s vocals elevate the track, turning it into a heartfelt ballad that tugs at the heartstrings. Once again, Thaman S showcases his unique compositional brilliance with this memorable…
International
New York police nab suspect in death of woman found on fire in subway car
Unbeknownst to the officers, the suspect remained at the scene and was seated on a bench on the subway platform, just outside the train car. Body cameras worn by the officers caught a “very clear, detailed look” at the suspect and those images were publicly disseminated New York: New York City Police announced Sunday they have in custody a “person of interest” in the early morning death of a woman who they believe may have fallen asleep on a stationary subway train before being intentionally lit on fire by a man she didn’t know. Transit police apprehended the suspect after receiving a report from three high school students who had recognized the man. They had seen images of the suspect taken from surveillance and police body cam video and widely distributed by police. “New Yorkers came through again,” said New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who described the case as…
International
TTP commander among 11 killed in Pak security forces assault in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
A group of militants was moving through the Tirah Valley via Pir Mela when they were intercepted by the security forces. In the subsequent firing, 10 militants were killed while four others were injured. Peshawar: The security forces gunned down 11 suspected terrorists, including a commander of the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), in two intelligence-based operations in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday. The operations were conducted in the volatile Tirah Valley in Khyber district and Lakki Marwat district after reports about the presence of militants. A group of militants was moving through the Tirah Valley via Pir Mela when they were intercepted by the security forces. In the subsequent firing, 10 militants were killed while four others were injured. Among the militants killed was a commander who was leading the group, sources said. The slain militants belonged to the banned extremist organisation’s Hafiz Gul Bahadur group. Separately in Lakki…
International
Send Sheikh Hasina back, Bangladesh sends note to India
Since August 5, Hasina, 77, has been living in exile in India, having fled her country in the wake of massive student-led protests that successfully brought an end to her 16-year-long regime Dhaka: Bangladesh’s interim government said on Monday that it has sent a diplomatic note to India to send back deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Dhaka. Hasina, 77, has been living in exile in India since August 5 when she fled the country amid the student-led protests that toppled her 16-year regime. Bangladesh-based International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants for Hasina and several former Cabinet Ministers, advisers, and military and civil officials for “crimes against humanity and genocide”. “We have sent a note verbale to the Indian government saying that Bangladesh wants her back here for the judicial process,” Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain told reporters at his office. Earlier in the morning, Home Advisor Jahangir…
National
Shiv temple in Muzaffarnagar reopens after 1992 Ayodhya incident
In a display of harmony, local Muslims welcomed the procession of Hindu activists by showering flowers on them Muzaffarnagar: A Shiv temple in Ludhawala, a predominantly Muslim locality under the jurisdiction of Kotwali police station, was reopened on Monday with a ‘havan’ and Muslims showering flowers on a procession by Hindus. The Shiv temple was built in 1971. However, during the communal tensions triggered by the Ayodhya incident in 1992, Hindu families from the locality migrated, taking the temple’s idols and ‘shivling’ with them. Since then, the temple had remained closed. City Magistrate Vikas Kashyap confirmed that the reopening and associated ceremonies were conducted peacefully. “All functions in the temple were conducted without any disturbance. The atmosphere was cordial and Hindu activists, led by Swami Yashvir Maharaj, returned in a peaceful manner,” Kashyap said. In a remarkable display of harmony, local Muslims welcomed the procession of Hindu activists by showering flowers on them as they made their way to the temple. Swami Yashvir Maharaj led the purification ceremony in the temple, which involved performing a ‘havan’ and other rituals. “This is a significant moment for us.…
National
Government data on India’s forests inflated, say experts
The ‘India State of Forests Report 2023’ revealed that India’s total forest and tree cover has grown by 1,445 sq km since 2021, now accounting for 25.17% of the country’s total geographical area New Delhi: Several experts have claimed that the latest government data on India’s forests is “inflated” as it includes bamboo plantations, coconut groves, and orchards among others as part of the forest cover. The ‘India State of Forests Report 2023’ released on Saturday, after a delay of almost a year, said India’s total forest and tree cover has increased by 1,445 sq km since 2021, reaching 25.17 per cent of the total geographical area in 2023. However, the forest cover grew by just 156 sq km and most of the gain (149 sq km) occurred outside the Recorded Forest Area (RFA), which refers to areas designated as forests in government records. The overall results could have been stronger,…
National
Gold, Silver shine bright: 2024 sees record demand and 30pc price surge
Global demand for precious metals has surged significantly in 2024. Central banks around the world, including those in emerging markets, have maintained their status as net buyers of gold for over a decade. This year alone, they collectively acquired over 500 tonnes of gold, highlighting their efforts to diversify reserves in response to ongoing economic uncertainties, according to the report. Mumbai: Gold and silver have experienced an impressive rally in 2024, gaining approximately 30 per cent and 35 per cent, respectively, on the Commodity Exchange (COMEX), a report showed on Monday. While central bank policies and geopolitical risks are significant drivers of gold and silver prices, other factors also play a role in shaping the market, according to the report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd (MOFSL). In 2024, global demand for precious metals has increased substantially. Central banks worldwide, including those in emerging markets, have been net buyers of gold…
