🙏 New food and laddu facilities open at Durga temple

New annadanam and laddu-making facilities are set to launch at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam in Vijayawada. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Shivnath inspected the counters with the temple chairman and officials recently. The annadanam kitchen costs around ₹25 crore and can serve 10,000 devotees in 30 minutes. The laddu facility, costing approx. ₹26 crore, can produce up to 60,000 laddus per hour. State Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy will inaugurate these enhanced facilities on August 21.

🍲 Kunal Kapur’s easy tomato rice recipe revealed

Celebrity chef Kunal Kapur shared a simple and wholesome tomato rice recipe on Instagram on August 12. This easy dish is made with rice, tomatoes, and everyday spices, serving two people. The preparation process takes approximately 45 minutes to complete the flavorful meal. Kapur described it as a comforting, fuss-free option perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners. This recipe is designed to be minimal effort while remaining absolutely delicious. 🍚

🇮🇳 President Murmu praises students amidst protests

President Murmu lauded students as the 'architects of India's future' during recent demonstrations. She addressed the gathering while visiting the students in Delhi. The event took place amidst various protests happening across the nation. Murmu emphasized the crucial role of the youth in shaping the country's trajectory. She encouraged students to remain engaged and continue their pursuit of knowledge. 🇮🇳

🩺 Abdominal Obesity + Low Vitamin D = Deadly Pool

A recent study has linked abdominal obesity combined with low levels of Vitamin D to a significantly increased risk of mortality. The research, conducted by various health experts, focused on populations across different demographics. Specifically, the findings highlighted risks associated with these combined health markers observed over several years. This correlation suggests a critical interplay between body composition and essential vitamin levels for overall health. Further research is now recommended to develop targeted prevention strategies for this dangerous combination. 🩺

✊ Junior Doctors Protest Stipend Hike in Ongole

APJUDA members held a protest rally demanding a stipend increase from the state government. The demonstration took place in Ongole on Friday, August 14, 2026, starting from the Government General Hospital. During the fifth day of the relay hunger strike, non-emergency services were withdrawn for the entire day. However, emergency services will continue uninterrupted, as assured by APJUDA vice-president Dr. G. Bhargava Sai Naidu. The hunger strike will proceed until their legitimate demands are met.

💰 Kazakhstan accuses Big Oil of massive corruption in oil project

Kazakhstan has alleged in a confidential arbitration case that major international oil firms awarded contracts with unjustified cost increases or bribes. This claim involves the development of the Kashagan oilfield by the North Caspian Project consortium, which includes Eni, Shell, and ExxonMobil. The Kazakh government specifically alleges that about a dozen contracts from the 2000s were compromised by bribery or self-dealing. This allegation is part of a larger $160-billion claim against Big Oil over various damages. The tribunal at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague has not yet issued a decision on these serious claims. 💰

🥊 Ric Flair vs Brock Lesnar: 2026 net worth showdown

Brock Lesnar and Ric Flair are two massive names in professional wrestling with vastly different financial trajectories. Lesnar's wealth is boosted by his WWE, UFC, and amateur wrestling success, while Flair relies on decades of legacy earnings and appearances. In 2026, Lesnar's estimated net worth ranges from $10M to $20M, according to various reports. Conversely, Ric Flair's net worth is estimated to be between $500K and $5M, despite his long career. Future earnings for both will depend on their evolving roles in combat sports and wrestling promotions. 💰

🏥 Kerala boosts caregiver support under Ashwasakiranam

Kerala has officially increased the monthly assistance for caregivers under the Ashwasakiranam scheme. This enhancement applies to caregivers of bedridden, disabled, or elderly persons across the state. The assistance is now ₹1,000, up from the previous amount of ₹600. This hike of ₹400 was announced in the 2026-27 State Budget. The scheme, introduced in 2011, sees this significant increase after a decade. 🤝

💥 US threat of major economic hits to Iran

The US is set to announce unprecedented economic measures against Iran to force its surrender after nearly six months of conflict. This move involves intensifying existing measures alongside a continued blockade of Iranian ports. Since February 28, clashes have disrupted oil flow, and the US has already imposed about 2,200 sanctions since 2018. While Trump is reportedly scaling back military action, the economic pressure remains a key strategy. The next steps remain unclear, though diplomatic efforts continue amidst regional tensions.

🔥 Abhishek takes dig after Munawar's exit from The Traitors

Munawar Faruqui was evicted from The Traitors Season 2 in the first Circle of Shaq, much to the shock of fans. Abhishek Malhan and Harman Singha were key figures who voted against him during the game. Munawar later took a jab at Abhishek on Instagram, questioning the sincerity of the players. Abhishek responded on his own Instagram stories, captioning a photo with a comment about someone being hurt. This feud highlights the intense rivalries within the show's gameplay.

🇮🇳 Minister Bindu Krishna to flag off Kozhikode Independence Day

Minister Bindu Krishna is set to hoist the national flag during the district-level Independence Day celebrations. This event will take place at Captain Vikram Ground in West Hill, Kozhikode city. The parade will feature 22 platoons from various services, starting with proceedings at 8:40 a.m. The Minister is scheduled to arrive at 8:58 a.m. before the flag hoisting at 9 a.m. After the ceremony, Ms. Krishna will address the crowd and present awards to the top-performing contingents. 🇮🇳