🇮🇳 Iran women's kabaddi team rebuilding in Sonipat 🇮🇳

The Iranian women’s national kabaddi team is training intensely in Sonipat, Haryana, for the 2026 Asian Games. The team traveled to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) campus on August 13th to prepare for international competition. They have been training twice a day and playing against Indian players from Gandhinagar, Dharamshala, and Sonipat. The preparation aims to rebuild the side that previously won a historic gold in Jakarta in 2018. The friendly matches are crucial for them to identify weaknesses before the main event in Japan.

⚙️ DMK plans tough revamp for party health

DMK president M.K. Stalin addressed the party's executive committee regarding necessary organizational changes. He stated that the party's poor functioning was a reason for the recent Assembly election defeat in Tamil Nadu. The revamp committee, led by former Minister Thangam Thennarasu, proposed fixing age and tenure limits for functionaries. Stalin emphasized that these 'bitter' changes are vital to keep the party vibrant for the next century. The party plans to launch a transparent membership drive and focus on youth and women's confidence.

🎬 Suresh Oberoi on the hustle for Vivek's debut

Suresh Oberoi recounted the intense struggle to get his son, Vivek Oberoi, his debut in 'Company'. He went door to door, carrying Vivek's photos around until Ram Gopal Varma saw his son's tape. The director was immediately impressed by Vivek's performance in the 2002 film 'Company'. Vivek himself shared he struggled for almost two years, going by Vivek Anand to prove his talent. Next, Vivek will be in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana' alongside Ranbir Kapoor.

⚖️ J&K High Court questions leak of rape victim's name

The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has asked its registry for an explanation regarding a petition. This petition disclosed the name of a rape victim/complainant before the court. The matter was brought before the court on August 18, 2026. Justice Shahzad Azeem noted that the petition should not have been entertained despite prior circulars. The petitioner's counsel later requested permission to withdraw the case.

🏛️ SC sets aside NGT order on Yamuna floodplain damage

The Supreme Court overturned a December 2017 NGT decision holding Art of Living responsible for Yamuna floodplain damage during its 2016 World Culture Festival. Justices Satish Chandra Sharma and N.K. Singh directed the DDA to refund ₹5 crore to the foundation within four weeks. The court criticized the DDA for permitting the event on an active floodplain, which was already damaged beforehand. The top court found the NGT failed to consider pre-existing damage and did not specify additional harm caused by the foundation. The SC emphasized that DDA's responsibilities for floodplain rehabilitation remain unchanged. 🏛️

✈️ Techie quits ₹85 LPA for travel content life

A Bengaluru couple is redefining success by choosing creative freedom over corporate stability. Saksham Raj Seth left his ₹85 lakh annual software engineering role to become a full-time travel content creator. His partner, Smriti Sidana, continues her job earning ₹1.5 lakh monthly to support his venture. The couple faces income uncertainty and the pressure of building a sustainable lifestyle on the road. They are documenting this unconventional journey to prioritize time and experiences over high salaries. ✈️

🎮 MW4 Beta 2 rolls out, more players get in 🎮

The Modern Warfare 4 Beta is expanding access following its initial early look for pre-order holders. This testing phase is happening across multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch 2, starting August 28. Early access ran from August 21 to August 25, while the Open Beta runs from August 28 until September 1. Players can now download the standalone Beta directly, giving a real preview of maps and mechanics. This big test happens before the game's worldwide October 23, 2026 launch.

🌍 Congo gets Ebola vaccine doses amid big outbreak

The Democratic Republic of Congo has received over 16,000 doses of the Ebola vaccine. This vital supply is being distributed across the country to combat a severe health crisis. The doses arrived recently as the country faces an unprecedented outbreak of the virus. Public health officials are working intensely to manage the spread and protect vulnerable populations. Efforts are ongoing to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation of the epidemic. 🌍

✈️ Laptop fire causes mid-air scare on AA flight

An American Airlines flight experienced a mid-air scare when a passenger's laptop caught fire during landing. The incident occurred on Flight 2398 traveling from Atlanta to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Texas. The pilot estimated that four to five passengers might have sustained burns from the device contained in the aircraft's middle section. One passenger received medical treatment at the airport before being released. This event again raises concerns about lithium-ion batteries on aircraft, prompting safety reviews. 😟

📰 Journalism must question power, says Deputy CM

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka stated that a strong democracy requires those in power to accept media criticism. He addressed the Federation of Press Clubs National Conclave in Hyderabad on Saturday, August 22, 2026. He noted that journalism's core function is to make power accountable, going beyond just reporting news. Bhatti Vikramarka stressed that the media must educate citizens and challenge authority, not just operate commercially. He concluded by urging governments to have the courage to listen to reporters.

🏏 Gambhir prioritizes 20 wickets over Kuldeep's spot

Gautam Gambhir emphasized the team's focus on selecting the best bowling attack to secure 20 wickets in the ongoing series. This statement came amidst ongoing uncertainty regarding Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in the India XI in Colombo. With various factors like the Kookaburra ball and Sri Lanka's lineup, the selection process is being re-evaluated. Gambhir clarified that the decision is about match-winning potential, not individual bowling lapses. The team will maintain all options open to maximize their chances of victory in the Test match. 🏏