How choirboy who led Prince Charles' procession became global conman

Kenner Jones's lies about being a journalist, a priest and a surgeon are unveiled in a documentary.

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Starmer vows to 'defeat decline and division' in new year message

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Dharmendra, Shefali Jariwala To Zubeen Garg, Celebrities Who Died In 2025

2025 has been a year marked by profound loss for Indian cinema. The nation mourned the death of several beloved Bollywood celebrities who left an indelible mark on the industry. These individuals, through their work, not only shaped their respective fields but also left behind legacies that continue to resonate with audiences across generations. Here's a tribute to the beloved artists we lost this year.

1. Dharmendra 

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra died on November 24 at the age of 89. He had been suffering from age-related illnesses and respiratory complications. The actor had been in and out of Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital earlier in November before spending his final days at home. He died at his residence in Mumbai. His last rites were performed on November 24 at the Shree Vile Parle Seva Samaj crematorium. 

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A post shared by Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam)

2. Manoj Kumar

Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar died on April 4 at the age of 87. He had been bedridden for several weeks following a prolonged illness.

3. Govardhan Asrani

Who doesn't remember Govardhan Asrani?  With a career spanning over five decades, the actor appeared in 350 films. His iconic role as the "Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailer" in the 1975 classic Sholay will stay in our hearts rent-free. Asrani died on October 20 following a prolonged illness and complications related to fluid accumulation in his lungs. He was 84. 

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A post shared by Govardhan Asrani (@therealasrani)

4. Satish Shah

The whole nation was shocked by the sudden death of Satish Shah. The actor took his last breath on October 25 at the age of 74. While initial reports cited kidney failure, his co-star Rajesh Kumar later clarified that he died of a sudden cardiac arrest. He had been battling chronic kidney disease and had undergone a kidney transplant earlier in 2025.

5. Pankaj Dheer 

Pankaj Dheer, known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra's 1988 epic TV series Mahabharat, died on October 15 following a prolonged battle with cancer. While he had previously recovered and returned to work, the illness relapsed in the months leading up to his death. He was 68.

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A post shared by Nikitin Dheer (@nikitindheer)

6. Sulakshana Pandit

Veteran singer and actor Sulakshana Pandit left the world on November 6. She was 71. She died due to cardiac arrest while being rushed to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai. Her brother, music composer Lalit Pandit, confirmed she had complained of breathlessness and felt unwell before collapsing.

7. Zubeen Garg

Assamese singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg's death came as a shock. He was in Singapore for the North East India Festival when he collapsed while swimming near St John's Island. He was rushed to Singapore General Hospital but was declared dead in the ICU. He was 52.

8. Shefali Jariwala

Shefali Jariwala, who rose to fame with the Kaanta Laga music video, died on June 27. She was 42. Her death was attributed to sudden cardiac arrest.

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A post shared by Shefali Jariwala 🧿 (@shefalijariwala)

9. Mukul Dev

Mukul Dev bid adieu to this world at the age of 54. His brother and actor Rahul Dev shared that Mukul's health had severely deteriorated due to loneliness and neglect of personal health. 

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A post shared by Mukul Dev (@thereal_mukuldev)

He spent over eight days in the ICU before succumbing to these complications.

ALSO READ: Kantara To Coolie: Top 10 Highest Grossing South Films Of 2025

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Magnitude 6 Earthquake Strikes Off Coast Of Japan's Noda Region: USGS

An earthquake of 6-magnitude struck off the coast of Japan's eastern Noda region on Wednesday, the United States Geological Survey said. The quake was at a depth of 19.3 km, it said.
This comes weeks after a powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake shook the country's regions, injuring at least 30 people and forcing about 90,000 residents to evacuate their homes.

The December 8 earthquake struck off the coast and the Japan Meteorological Agency said a tsunami as high as 3 metres (10 feet) could hit the country's northeastern coast. Warnings were issued for the prefectures of Hokkaido, Aomori and Iwate, and tsunamis from 20 to 70 cm (7 to 27 inches) high were observed at several ports, JMA said.

Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries, with a tremor occurring at least every five minutes. Located in the "Ring of Fire" of volcanoes and oceanic trenches partly encircling the Pacific Basin, Japan accounts for about 20% of the world's earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or greater.

The northeastern region suffered one of the country's deadliest earthquakes on March 11, 2011, when a 9.0-magnitude tremor struck under the ocean off the coast of the northern city of Sendai. It was the most powerful ever recorded in Japan and set off a series of massive tsunami that devastated a wide swathe of the Pacific coastline and killed nearly 20,000 people.

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Rs 75 Lakh In Cash Recovered From A Locked House Linked To Odisha Official

Vigilance teams carried out simultaneous raids at several locations linked to Additional Revenue Officer (Tehsildar) Jitendra Kumar Panda of Barang in Odisha's Cuttack district on Tuesday. Officials recovered a total of Rs 82 lakh in cash along with gold and immovable properties. 

During the raids, Rs 75 lakh in cash was recovered from a locked house belonging to Panda's mother-in-law at Bhubaneswar's Badagada area. Panda's mother-in-law is bedridden and currently resides with him. Officials said cash counting is still in progress. 

The raids revealed several immovable properties allegedly linked to Panda and his family members, including two triple-storeyed buildings and a two-BHK flat in Bhubaneswar and one double-storeyed building in Khordha district. Four high-value plots, three located in Bhubaneswar's posh localities and one in Khordha, were also found. 

Officials also found Rs 6.20 lakh cash and around 100 grams of gold jewellery from a separate location in Bhubaneswar. A State Bank of India locker linked to Panda is yet to be opened as bank account details, postal deposits, and other investments are currently being verified.

(With inputs from Dev Kumar)

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Ikkis First Reviews: Stars Call Dharmendra's Last Film A 'Parting Gift'

Sriram Raghavan's upcoming biographical war drama Ikkis has already left an emotional impact on Bollywood even before its theatrical release. After a special screening in Mumbai, several celebrities took to social media to express how the film moved them.

Celebs Review Ikkis

Director Anil Sharma, who worked with Dharmendra in Apne, shared an emotional note on X after watching the film. He wrote, "Saw Dharam ji's last film yesterday deeply touched. Watched him with teary eyes what a role, what a performer. He leaves us with dignity, depth, and unforgettable grace. Heartfelt congratulations to the entire #IKEES team. the makers, technicians, and every actor who helped create this tribute. @aapkadharam lives on. Special mention to #AgastyaNanda, he performed very well."

Saw Dharam ji's last film yesterday… deeply touched.
Watched him with teary eyes …
what a role, what a performer.
He leaves us with dignity, depth, and unforgettable grace.

Heartfelt congratulations to the entire #IKEES team….
the makers, technicians, and every actor who… pic.twitter.com/HHRvtIKPo7

— Anil Sharma (@Anilsharma_dir) December 30, 2025

Casting director Mukesh Chhabra echoed similar feelings and described the film as a labour of love. He posted, "Just watched Ikkis, a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends. Dharmendra sir what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart. You've left us with something deeply emotional and important. You will be missed, sir. And Jaideep Ahlawat, hats off. I genuinely didn't expect this, and I'm glad to be surprised."

Just watched Ikkis — a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends.
Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart 💔. You've left us with something deeply emotional and…

— Mukesh Chhabra CSA (@CastingChhabra) December 29, 2025

Actor Ameesha Patel also shared her gratitude after attending the screening, posting on X, "Thank u ⁦@iamsunnydeol⁩ n Bobby Deol for a beautiful screening of IKKIS - DHARAMJI's last film! Such a fitting tribute to our legend! Such a soulful n sweet film made more heartwarming 2 watch with DHARAMJI's cute innocence n vulnerability. Goodluck to the entire team!"

Thank u ⁦@iamsunnydeol⁩ n Bobby Deol for a beautiful screening of IKKIS - DHARAMJI's last film! Such a fitting tribute to our legend! Such a soulful n sweet film made more heartwarming 2 watch with DHARAMJI's cute innocence n vulnerability 🙏🏻🙏🏻Goodluck to the entire team! pic.twitter.com/2Z9NFxjYPM

— ameesha patel (@ameesha_patel) December 30, 2025

Actor Fatima Sana Shaikh took to Instagram Stories to praise Ikkis, describing it as a film that brings back a sense of lost innocence. She wrote, "Do not miss this film!!!! Ikkis is such a special, precious film. It reminded me of a time when love and unity were the only language we knew. This film deeply moves you, and it feels like a beautiful parting gift that Dharam ji has left us with. Truly a legend."

She went on to applaud the performances of the cast in detail, adding, "Har ek performance itni manjhi hui aur earnest hai (Every performance is so finely honed and deeply earnest). Jaideep Ahlawat, like always, you were so fine and delicate in your performance. You have this rare way of touching hearts. Your silences are so strong, and words are powerful. Vivaan Shah, what a rockstar you are! So cool. And your choices as an actor are so nuanced. We need to see more of you!!! Simar Bhatia, You are a breath of fresh air. You lit up the screen every single time you appeared. And Agastya Nanda, Uff! What a performance. I was with you every second. Your presence is so strong yet so gentle. There's such lightness and strength in every beat. Absolutely bang on. Such a star."

About Ikkis

Ikkis traces the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who lost his life at just 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 India-Pakistan War. Agastya Nanda essays the role of the young war hero, while Simar Bhatia plays Kiran. Dharmendra is seen as Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun's father.

The film is slated to release in theatres on January 1, 2026.

ALSO READ: Ikkis Screening: Salman Khan, Deol Family, Rekha, And Several Other Stars Join Agastya Nanda To Honour Dharmendra's Last Movie

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Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of John F Kennedy, dies aged 35

She shared her diagnosis in a widely read essay last month, writing that she had less than a year to live.

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Nepal to scrap 'failed' Mount Everest waste deposit scheme

Under the scheme, climbers paid a $4,000 deposit that was returned if they brought 8kg of waste down the mountain.

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Krystle D'Souza On Replacing Tamannaah Bhatia In Dhurandhar Song Shararat

Krystle D'Souza has opened up about stepping into the much-talked-about song Shararat from the film Dhurandhar, after reports suggested she replaced Tamannaah Bhatia in the number.

Speaking candidly to IANS, Krystle stressed that it was all about destiny, saying, "What's meant to be, will be." While she had no clarity on what transpired behind the scenes, she was generous in her praise for Tamannaah, describing her as an "amazing" performer and a beautiful artist.

Krystle Praises Tamannaah

Addressing reports that Tamannaah was rejected for the song, the actress said she had no idea about the internal decision-making process but firmly dismissed any negative narrative around it.

"I had no idea about all this, but I mean, she's amazing, she's beautiful, and she's so good at what she does. More power to her. You know-what's written in someone's destiny, they receive. I feel like this was meant for me, it was meant for Ayesha, and we got it. But that doesn't take away from how beautiful Tamannaah is or what a great performer she is," Krystle said.

She further added that Tamannaah would have brought her own spark to the number. "Maybe she would have added her own magic to the song. She brings her own aura and her own limelight, and I think that's wonderful. I feel proud of every woman who is doing so well, and I'd love to see more women deliver amazing, crazy performances and support one another."

Why Tamannaah Was Never In The Running, According To Vijay Ganguly

Choreographer Vijay Ganguly had recently revealed in an interview that Tamannaah Bhatia was initially considered for the song but the idea was not approved by director Aditya Dhar. After his statement went viral, he issued a clarification on Instagram Stories, stating that the Baahubali actress was never actually in contention for the number.

"To clarify: Tamannaah Bhatia was never under consideration because her star power is so significant it might have overwhelmed the specific needs of this scene. In Dhurandhar, the music is woven into a high-stakes moment where the tension is key. The makers opted for two performers to keep the focus on the story's progression. This choice was about protecting the film's atmosphere and ensuring the narrative remains the hero of the sequence," he wrote.

Ganguly also addressed how his words were misconstrued. "I genuinely enjoy conversations around cinema and the many layers that go into making a film. That said, I have often refrained from putting myself out there because, at times, words get selectively lifted, misquoted or sensationalised to serve headlines rather than the craft."

He concluded by saying, "It's unfortunate that instead of the conversation staying on the song and the creative intent behind Shararat, the focus has shifted to comparisons between two wonderful artists, with strong and reductive terms like 'rejections' being used-something that was never the spirit of what was shared. Cinema is collaborative. It thrives on respect, nuance and context. I hope we can keep the spotlight where it belongs-on the work and the many people who pour their hearts into it."

Krystle D'Souza and Ayesha Khan eventually featured in Shararat, the foot-tapping track from Dhurandhar sung by Jasmine Sandlas and Madhubanti Bagchi.

ALSO READ: Krystle D'Souza Says She Feels "Sad" For People Trolling Her After Dhurandhar Song Shararat With Ayesha Khan: "Who Cares?"

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Villa will not speak about league target until game 34 - Emery

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Broke And On A Visa Deadline: How An Indian Techie Cracked A Microsoft Job

An Indian engineer who moved to the US in 2015 has shared with Business Insider how persistence, referrals, and careful preparation helped him break into Microsoft despite early setbacks.

Rishab Jolly, now a senior product manager at Microsoft in Redmond, Washington, studied engineering and computer science in India and worked as a software tester and engineer before relocating to the US. Interested in the business side of technology, he left his job to pursue an MBA at the University of Arizona, aiming to combine technical expertise with business skills.

Speaking to Business Insider, Jolly said that during his MBA, he worked on live projects with major technology companies, including Microsoft. In 2016, he led a student team on a Microsoft project, which allowed him to network with company professionals and showcase his abilities.

After graduating, however, he faced significant challenges. Jolly applied to nearly 200 jobs using a generic resume and received only a few interview calls. Two job offers were later withdrawn due to visa concerns and budget issues. With limited time to secure employment, financial pressure mounted, and he relied on a friend for accommodation.

His breakthrough came when he reconnected with a Microsoft contact from his MBA project and requested a referral. He tailored his resume to the specific role, which led to an interview and ultimately a job offer. Jolly joined Microsoft as a product manager in July 2017 and was promoted to senior product manager in 2021.

He says landing a role in Big Tech involves two steps: securing the interview and clearing it. Referrals, mock interviews, authentic storytelling, and a strong professional presence on platforms like LinkedIn played a crucial role in his journey.

Jolly emphasises that while an MBA can be helpful, it is not mandatory for success in Big Tech. He advises aspiring professionals to network smartly, remain adaptable, and continue building skills in a rapidly evolving industry.

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Suryavanshi, 1st Cricketer To Get National Award For Children, Meets PM Modi

Before the year signed off, Indian cricket quietly made room for a new kind of headline. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, still three months away from turning 15, was honoured with the Prime Minister's National Award for Children (Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar) - the highest civilian recognition for children in the country. For a cricketer to receive it is unprecedented, placing the Bihar teenager in the same bracket of achievers as chess grandmasters R Praggnanandhaa and R Vaishali. It was fitting recognition for a year in which Suryavanshi didn't just break records-he bent timelines.

In 2025, no Indian cricketer was searched more on Google. Not Virat Kohli, not Rohit Sharma. It was the name of a school-going left-hander from Motihari that kept spiking search bars. Curiosity soon gave way to clarity-this wasn't hype chasing novelty, but performance chasing history.

The loudest statement came late in the year, in a Vijay Hazare Trophy game that didn't even have a live telecast. Suryavanshi walked in and tore into Arunachal's bowling with an innings that belonged to a different age group altogether-190 off 84 balls, struck at 226.19, with 16 fours and 15 sixes. In the process, he became the youngest player in the history of List A cricket to score a hundred, breaking a 39-year-old world record held by Pakistan's Zahoor Elahi. Praise poured in from across generations, from R Ashwin to Shikhar Dhawan, while fans did what they've done all year-searched his name again.

But this wasn't an overnight explosion. Months earlier, on April 28 in Jaipur, Suryavanshi had announced himself to the IPL in a way few debutants dare-at 14 years and 32 days old, when he scored 101 off 38 balls in a match against Gujarat Titans.

At 14, he also became the youngest player to score a T20 century, triggering memories of Chris Gayle's 30-ball carnage years earlier. Seven fours, eleven sixes, and an equal to Murali Vijay's IPL record for maximums in an innings-this was power without apology.

Even his exit carried theatre. In his final IPL innings of the season, he struck 57 off 33 against Chennai to seal a Rajasthan win. Broadcasters framed it as "Gen Bold vs Gen Gold." The poster boy was already decided.

Age records followed him everywhere. He debuted in Ranji Trophy cricket at 12 years and 284 days, becoming India's second-youngest first-class cricketer, younger than Yuvraj Singh was at debut. He signed an IPL contract worth Rs 1.1 crore at just 13, making him the youngest player ever to be bought at an auction.

And it wasn't just domestic cricket. Against Australia Under-19, he smashed 104 off 58 balls-the fastest Under-19 century by an Indian and the second-fastest globally. In back-to-back Under-19 Asia Cups, Suryavanshi was central to India's batting story: 176 runs at an average of 44 in 2024, then an audacious 144 off 42 balls against UAE in 2025, featuring a 32-ball hundred.

For all the white-ball fireworks, perhaps the most telling innings came quietly in Bihar's Under-19 Randhir Verma Tournament-an unbeaten 332. No countdown clock, no camera frenzy-just time spent at the crease. It was a reminder that beneath the viral clips is a temperament capable of marathon cricket too.

As the year ends, there's still one Vijay Hazare game left. Another chance for Suryavanshi to do something extraordinary. Given how 2025 has unfolded, it would be more surprising if he didn't.

Indian cricket has seen prodigies before. Very few have made an entire year revolve around them before they've even finished school.

PS: Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is the country's highest civilian honour for achievers aged between five and 18.

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Tu Meri Main Tera X Reviews: Mixed Reactions For Kartik-Ananya's Rom-Com

Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday's upcoming romantic drama Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri hit the screens today.

As always, the Internet is buzzing about the last big release of the year, which appeared to be a fun and frothy rom-com in true Bollywood style from its trailer and songs.

The Internet's verdict is in, and mixed reactions have been pouring in.

While one person wrote, "Hits the right emotional and entertainment note," some felt, "A romantic drama that never takes off."

Positive comments read, "It is a unique romantic comedy," and that it feels "fresh, youthful, and wholesome."

On the contrary, there were some harsh comments, with viewers calling it "unbearable, pathetic," and "Do not even contribute a penny for such movies."

It was a mixed bag of responses, with audiences sharing both positive and negative opinions.

Have a look at some of the X reactions here:

#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeriReview : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri is a thoroughly enjoyable film that hits the right emotional and entertainment notes. The movie is engaging from start to finish with a strong narrative flow.#KartikAaryan delivers an intense and… pic.twitter.com/BbuhPqO3in

— Vishwajit Patil (@_PatilVishwajit) December 25, 2025

REVIEW #TMMT - BEAUTIFUL ENTERTAINER

You may or may not go to watch #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri with your girlfriend, but you must definitely watch it with your parents. This film is a unique romantic story that places a child's love and responsibility towards their parents… pic.twitter.com/poilyBgCwQ

— Sumit Kadel (@SumitkadeI) December 25, 2025

#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMerireview ⭐/5
A romantic drama that never takes off. Poor direction by Sameer Vidwans, routine story, awkward dialogues, and dull performances. Wasted potential, wasted talent. Complete misfire #TuMeriMeinTeraMeinTeraTuMeri #review pic.twitter.com/MEC1d8QGBs

— Lokesh Chandra ⚡️ (@socialloki) December 25, 2025

#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeriReview
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri feels fresh, youthful, and wholesome.#KartikAaryan once again proves his versatility - from Chandu Champion to this, he slips into the character effortlessly and brings charm, emotion, and energy to the… pic.twitter.com/JuCsX2SVYb

— Siddharth Mathur (@TheSidMathur) December 25, 2025

#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMerireview

Pathetic, unbearable, worst 😭
Bhai kya hugaa hai

— kya_Yrr_Rahul (@WritesRahu4896) December 25, 2025

Why did you go & watch? Couldn't you understand from trailer itself? Do not contribute even a penny to such movies. #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeriReview

— santosh kumar (@santudadda) December 25, 2025

#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeriReview #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri https://t.co/v41qOFvAIO

— Manoj Funny (@Manoj49151909) December 25, 2025

#TMMTMTTM dazzles visually but falters narratively. #KartikAaryan shines, yet thin writing and meandering subplots render it an underwhelming watch. ⭐⭐½ #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeriReview pic.twitter.com/zIfe3NOfPP

— Sammie (@Prasparrow) December 25, 2025

About Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri

The romantic drama is backed by an extensive production team, with Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Bhumika Tewari producing under Dharma Productions, alongside Shareen Mantri Kedia and Kishor Arora of Namah Pictures. The film is directed by Sameer Vidwans, best known for Satyaprem Ki Katha (2023).

Starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday in the lead roles, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri released in theatres today, December 25, 2025.

ALSO READ | Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri Review: Flip, Frivolous, And Not As Much Fun

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Navi Mumbai Airport To Begin Commercial Flight Ops From Tomorrow

The Adani Group-promoted Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will commence commercial flight operations on Thursday, according to a statement.

First conceived in 1997 by Maharashtra's city planning agency, City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the airport in 2018.

The airport was inaugurated by the Prime Minister on October 8 this year.

At the foundation-laying ceremony, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had announced that the "first flight from Navi Mumbai International Airport will take off in December 2019".

Since 2021, Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), has led the development, construction, and operational readiness of the greenfield airport, progressing it from accelerated construction to phased commercial operations within a compressed time frame.

Now, finally, the airport, inspired by India's national flower, the lotus, the terminal architecture integrated cultural identity, contemporary design and sustainability features, is set for operations after nearly eight years, which also includes two years of the pandemic.

The development is expected to reduce congestion at the existing Mumbai International Airport, besides significantly boosting capacity in the MMR.

On the first day, IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air and Star Air will operate domestic services, connecting the new facility to nine destinations across India, the private airport operator said on Wednesday.

The airport will handle 15 scheduled departures on the first day, it said, adding that during the initial phase, the facility will operate for 12 hours -- between 8 am and 8 pm, with up to 24 scheduled daily departures to 13 destinations and the capability to manage up to 10 aircraft movements (arrivals and departures) per hour, it added.

The first phase of the five-phased airport has been built at a cost of Rs 19,650 crore.

Spread across 1,160 hectares, the airport will have one terminal and one runway in the first phase, with an annual passenger handling capacity of 20 million.

By the time all five phases of the airport are completed, it will be catering to 90 million passengers annually, along with dedicated cargo terminals and multimodal connectivity.

The entire project is being developed in multiple phases under a special purpose vehicle, Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd (NMIAL), in which the Adani Group has a 74 per cent stake, and the remaining 26 per cent is owned by CIDCO.

From February next year, operations are planned to progressively scale up to round-the-clock services, the airport operator said.

The opening adds a critical new gateway for a region that has faced sustained congestion for over a decade, it said, adding that planned as part of a distributed aviation framework, NMIA supports Mumbai's transition to a multi-airport system aimed at improving capacity, operational resilience and long-term scalability.

Passenger services from day one will be supported by Digi Yatra-enabled contactless processing at designated touchpoints, along with trained terminal staff across kerbside, check-in, security and boarding areas, the private airport operator said.

Retail and food and beverage offerings have been curated with a focus on affordability and local relevance.

With operations set to begin tomorrow, NMIA is expected to strengthen Mumbai's role as a global gateway and support long-term economic growth through expanded aviation capacity, the airport operator stated.  

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

(Disclaimer: New Delhi Television is a subsidiary of AMG Media Networks Limited, an Adani Group Company.)

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Libya's Army Chief Killed In Plane Crash In Turkey

 A private jet carrying Libya's military chief and four other people crashed after takeoff from Turkey's capital, Ankara, on Tuesday, killing everyone on board.

The Libyan military chief was in Ankara for high-level defense talks aimed at boosting military cooperation between the two countries and to address regional issues, Turkish officials said.

Libyan Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah confirmed the death of Gen. Muhammad Ali Ahmad al-Haddad and the others, saying in a statement on Facebook that the "tragic accident" took place as the Libyan delegation was "returning from an official trip to Ankara."

He called it a "great loss" for Libya. Officials in Libya said contact with the plane was lost about half hour into the flight because of a technical malfunction.

Al-Hadad was the top military commander in western Libya. He played a crucial role the U.N.-brokered ongoing efforts to unify Libya's military, which has split much like Libya's institutions.

Turkey did not immediately confirm the deaths, only that wreckage of the Falcon 50 type business jet has been found.

Earlier on Tuesday evening, Turkey's air traffic controllers said they lost contact with the plane, which was en route back to Libya, after takeoff from Esenboga airport.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, said in a social media post that the plane took off at 8:30 p.m. and contact was lost 40 minutes later. The plane issued an emergency landing signal near Haymana, a district south of Ankara, before all communication ceased, Yerlikaya said.

Security camera footage aired on local television stations showed the night sky over Haymana suddenly lit up by what appeared to be an explosion.

While in Ankara, al-Haddad had met with Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler and other officials.

The airport in Ankara was closed and several flights were diverted to other locations, private NTV news channel reported. Turkey's Justice Ministry said four prosecutors have been assigned to investigate the crash, a routine step in such incidents.

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Pawar Factions To Come Together For Pune Polls? Big Hint From Leaders

The elections to the Brihanmumbai Corporation may see rapprochement on both sides of the political divide. While the Thackeray brothers are all set to announce their reunion tomorrow, the two factions of another party are also apparently considering a union in Pune. While senior leaders on both sides of the the Nationalist Congress Party are circumspect in their comments, a spokesman from Ajit Pawar's faction had no qualms about speaking on record.

In an exclusive interview to NDTV, Suraj Chavan said, "If someone has a problem with us and Sharad Pawar's NCP coming together in Pune, it means they want to further their own political agenda. Wherever possible, we will fight together".

There was, however, a caveat: "Further decisions will be made after considering the local circumstances," he added.

What Brass In Ajit Pawar Faction Say

Senior NCP leader Sunil Tatkare was cautious in his response. "Ajit Pawar is currently in Pune. He is interviewing the probable candidates there. We will have a discussion on this tomorrow and things shall be clearer soon," Tatkare told reporters.

Sharad Pawar's Leader Confirms But...

There was a nod of confirmation, though, from the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP.  Senior leader Ankush Kakade said both factions have in principle decided to join hands during a meeting held in Pune earlier in the day.

"Three leaders from each side including me took part in the meeting. (City NCP(SP) chief) Prashant Jagtap was not there as he is in Mumbai. A detailed discussion took place and it was in principle decided that we will jointly contest the civic polls in Pune, but we will be talking to our other colleagues in the evening," he was quoted as saying by news agency Press Trust of India. 

State NCP-SP chief Shashikant Shinde also told reporters that the party has decided to contest the BMC elections as an ally within the Maha Vikas Aghadi.

"Our Mumbai NCP-SP President and the party's Core Committee are holding discussions with all parties except the Shinde faction of the Shiv Sena. Simultaneously, talks are also underway with the Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena. We held a meeting yesterday as part of these ongoing discussions," he told news agency ANI.

"There are slight differences and specific demands regarding certain seats. We will be holding another meeting today to address these. After today's deliberations, we have firmly decided to contest the Mumbai elections as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)," he added. 

The prospect of a reunion has not gone down too well with the party's Pune chief Prashant Jagtap, who held a three-hour meeting with Supriya Sule and state president Shashikant Shinde to discuss the matter. 

Sources suggest that Jagtap was keen to approach the elections as part of the MVA in Pune, even as the party inches closer to striking a deal with the rival faction. A final decision is expected tomorrow, with Supriya Sule likely to meet the party unit before announcing the decision in the evening.

NCP (SP)'s top leader Supriya Sule said no official proposal has been received for an alliance between the two factions.

She has also denied both events. "I have not received any resignation from Prashant Jagtap, nor has the State NCP-SP President Shashikant Shinde informed me of any such development. I had a two-hour discussion with Jagtap only yesterday," she said. 

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Libya's army chief killed in air crash in Turkey

Signal was earlier lost with a jet that took off from Ankara with Gen Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad and four others on board.

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World Cup Hero Jemimah Reveals Her 'Superpower' At NDTV Indian Of The Year

Jemimah Rodrigues was one of the stars of India's historic ICC Women's World Cup 2025 triumph. The 25-year-old smashed an unforgettable unbeaten 127 in the semi-final against Australia to help India pull off the highest successful run chase in the history of women's cricket. One of the most energetic members of the Indian women's team, Jemimah revealed exactly how she used that quality of hers to turn it into a superpower, elaborating on it at the NDTV Indian of the Year ceremony.

"Yes, I have my energy, but it's about how you use that energy to your advantage," said Jemimah.

"Sir (head coach Amol Muzumdar) keeps saying, 'Your energy is also what rubs off on and drives everyone in the team, especially when fielding. When I walk into the ground, I think I'm a different person. My teammates make fun of me - saying sometimes it's hard to talk to Jemi because she's so serious and so focused on the field - but that's me. When I'm on the ground, I'm there and I'm 100 per cent there," Jemimah added.

"It's also about how I balance that energy. I use it to my advantage, I think it brings the best out of me. And, I think, one of my superpowers is I know how to switch on and switch off, and that really helps me," she said further.

An emotional Jemimah had candidly opened up on her anxiety and self-doubt after the semi-final knock.

"I'll be very vulnerable here because I know someone watching might be going through the same thing," Jemimah began, her voice trembling. "I was going through a lot of anxiety at the start of the tournament. I used to call my mom and cry the entire time, because when you're going through anxiety, you just feel numb," she had said after the semi-final.

Jemimah revealed that the ultimate compliment came from some South African players, who were able to share Jemimah's sentiments.

"Literally four or five of the South African players came up to me and hugged me. I mean, we are literally rivals, we're going to play the final next. But they just hugged me and said, 'You know we're so proud of you, but more than that, for just being your vulnerable self. Most of us go through the same thing. But for you to come out and speak about it, speaks a lot about your character and how courageous you are'," revealed Jemimah.

"To know what kind of impact it had, that would stay with me," she further added.

Jemimah finished as India's third-highest run-scorer at the World Cup, managing a total of 292 runs in seven innings at an average of 58.40.

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Sunny Shares Ikkis Wrap-Up Clip, Dharmendra Urges India And Pakistan To Watch

The late actor Dharmendra, who will be posthumously seen in the upcoming film Ikkis, once said that he wishes that people of both India and Pakistan watches the film.

On Saturday, the late actor's elder son Sunny Deol took to his Instagram, and shared a BTS video from Ikkis. In the video, Dharmendra said, “I'm extremely happy to be in the Mandav films. The team, the captain, Shriram ji. It was done in a very nice way”.

He further mentioned, “I think India and Pakistan both should see the film. I'm a bit happily sad today, the last day of shooting. I love you all, if I made any mistake, please forgive me”.

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Sunny wrote in the caption, “A smile that lit up the darkness. Generosity without limits. Love for my papa is deeply rooted in our hearts. He has blessed us with his final film, Ikkis. Let's celebrate him in movie halls this New Year”.

Ikkis is directed by Sriram Raghavan, and is based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, one of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra awardees, who was martyred during the 1971 Indo-Pak war at the age of 21.

The title directly refers to Khetarpal's age at the time of his death. The lead role is played by Agastya Nanda, marking a significant departure from conventional debut choices, as the film prioritises realism over spectacle. Veteran actor Dharmendra appears in a key role, adding generational weight to the narrative.

The film focuses on military discipline, battlefield decision-making, and personal courage rather than melodrama. Staying true to historical accounts, the film aims to portray the human cost of war while honouring a real-life hero whose bravery continues to hold national significance.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Rodrigues Teaches Vicky Kaushal Cover-Drive, Gets Tutorial On 'Tauba Tauba'

What happens when 'rockstars' from different fields come together? They set the stage on fire. The same thing happened at the 'NDTV Indian Of The Year 2025', where the World Cup-winning Indian women's cricket team met actor Vicky Kaushal. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team won the 'Sports Performance Of The Year' award, while Vicky Kaushal won the 'Actor Of The Year' award. As the 'Chhaava' actor was getting up on stage, he was asked about the women's cricket team, and he had just one epic line to describe them all: "True heroes of the nation."

He then went on to share the stage with Harmanpreet Kaur and Co. and got an impromptu coaching session from Jemimah Rodrigues on how to ace the perfect cover drive. Deepti Sharma, Women's World Cup Player Of The Tournament, taught Vicky the art of bowling the perfect off-spin.

Now, it was Vicky's turn. The 37-year-old actor taught the members of the Indian women's cricket team - Harmanpreet, Jemimah, Deepti - and even coach Amol Muzumdar the steps of the hit number 'Tauba Tauba' from the movie Bad Newz.

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That was not all. Jemimah, whose magical 127* helped India chase down a world-record 339-run target against Australia in the semi-final of the Women's World Cup, mesmerised the audience with her singing skills. Even coach Muzumdar joined in.

After a triumphant campaign in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025, the Indian women's team will return to action with a five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka Women, starting on Sunday (Dec 21) in Visakhapatnam. The core group that lifted the ODI World Cup trophy in Navi Mumbai last month will feature in the T20I squad.

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