🥂 Onam sales boost: Liquor consumption expected to spike

Liquor sales are predicted to surge during the upcoming Onam festival in Kerala. The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) is stocking up across its 289 outlets for the peak season. Last Onam, sales hit ₹970.74 crore, up from ₹842.07 crore the prior year. This trend shows a shifting social behavior where alcohol is becoming a key part of celebrations. Authorities are simultaneously ramping up drives against illicit liquor and drunk driving. 🍻

📈 Stock Market Update for Monday Trade 📊

GIFT Nifty opened 0.2% higher at 24,320, despite last week's downturn in Nifty 50 and Sensex. Asian markets were mixed as investors watched US plans regarding Iran sanctions. Crude oil prices dropped, with Brent Crude trading 2% lower at $92.60 per barrel. Indian benchmarks saw declines for the second straight week in the market recap. Traders await further details from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's upcoming press conference.

📊 Market update: Big company news drops

Indian equity markets finished a choppy session on Friday, August 21, with the NSE Nifty50 closing at 24,252, up 0.08%. Reliance Industries' shareholders approved resolutions on August 20, while Bank of Baroda finalized a $400 million note issuance. Power Grid Corporation of India won a TBCB bid for a Gujarat renewable energy project at ₹822.91 crore per annum. NATCO Pharma received a Form 483 from the US FDA following an inspection between August 17 and August 21, 2026. Analysts anticipate the market will remain sideways to mildly positive in the near term. 📈

🔬 Indian labs are cracking cancer care codes

Indian research institutes have launched two major studies tackling cancer's biggest hurdles. One study, led by Dr Shubhasis Haldar at SN Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences and Ashoka University, introduces an AI framework called ACSCeND to find cancer stem-like cells. This AI analyzes over 25,000 tumour samples to predict poor survival linked to pluripotent-like cells. Parallelly, researchers at IASST-Guwahati and IIT-Guwahati developed RK-251, a small molecule that only activates within malignant cells. This targeted approach promises to reduce the severe side effects of current chemotherapy treatments.

📜 Vande Mataram's new legal status explained

Parliament granted Vande Mataram the same criminal protection as the national anthem, according to a new amendment. This change happened after the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed by both Houses of Parliament. The law introduces penalties of up to three years' imprisonment for intentionally preventing or disturbing the singing of the song. However, the statute does not specify which stanzas must be sung, nor does it mandate participation in any version. This differs from the political rhetoric pushing for a complete recitation of all six stanzas. 📜

🚢 US planning 'toughest' sanctions against Iran

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced he will detail new, 'toughest' US sanctions against Iran on Monday. The US plans to economically isolate Iran and its trading partners following threats of an "ECONOMIC D-DAY." Iran dismissed these threats on Sunday, calling sanctions an admission of defeat. US forces have already redirected 70 commercial vessels while enforcing the blockade against Iran. These escalating actions signal a major economic confrontation in the Middle East. 🚢

😔 Former deputy Sean Grayson passes away

Former Illinois deputy Sean Grayson, convicted of killing Sonya Massey in 2024, has died while incarcerated. He was serving a 20-year sentence for second-degree murder in Springfield, Ill. Grayson was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2023, and his request for medical release was denied on July 31. His attorney reported he died around noon on a Sunday, six months into his sentence. The exact cause of his passing remains undisclosed at this time. 😔

✨ Gemini Horoscope for August 24, 2026

Gemini is advised this week to focus on adding softness to difficult situations like deadlines or relationships. The cosmic message suggests remembering one's highest good is what will be delivered. Astrologically, there is a likelihood of experiencing visions related to personal goals. The advice emphasizes taking things one step at a time throughout the upcoming week. Balancing rest and work equally is crucial for Gemini's path forward.

♌ Leo Horoscope: August 24, 2026 cosmic vibes

Leo's focus on community, love, and recognition is coming together this week according to the stars. Individuals with Leo signs are advised to unplug frequently to manage heightened sensitivity and energy awareness. Thoughts and inner dialogue are currently guiding Leo toward making decisions that align with their well-being. Getting outdoors for morning walks in the sun is suggested to bring vibrant, life-giving energy into the day. The cosmic tip encourages connecting with important people based on heartfelt bonds.

✨ Taurus Horoscope: Focus on Self-Care Today

Taurus is advised that they are safe and should prioritize their health and wellbeing. They might realize that some things do not deserve their time and energy right now. The cosmos suggests that embracing offered love is key to shifting energy and boosting their vibe. Instead of constantly seeking external answers, they should honestly check if they are allowing love in. This is a prime opportunity to correct life approaches for better outcomes.

♓ Pisces horoscope for August 24, 2026

Pisces needs to prioritize mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health this week. This focus is crucial as an eclipse window brings unstable energy that is currently challenging. Many insights have surfaced, helping Pisces find strength to lead their own life healthily. Soon, the time will come to create, so gather the courage to act when the moment is right. This guidance comes from seeking help from the cosmos and personal guides.