⚽ Roberto Carlos denies viral Islam conversion rumours

Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has publicly refuted circulating reports that he converted to Islam. The 53-year-old former Real Madrid star addressed these rumors in comments to Saudi newspaper Okaz. The speculation intensified after wedding photos circulated, alongside claims from Turkish media regarding a meeting in Sao Paulo. Carlos clarified that the wedding incorporated diverse traditions to respect both families' beliefs. He stressed his respect for Islam but confirmed the conversion claims are untrue.

🎶 Mahesh Babu's Varanasi gets 6 songs, music starts in Sept

Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli's Varanasi will feature six songs, according to MM Keeravaani. The Oscar-winning composer shared this exciting news during a recent public appearance. He confirmed that background score work is scheduled to begin in September and wrap up by January. This massive scale is expected to heavily feature music in the storytelling of the film. The movie also boasts a star-studded cast including Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

🚦 Marathi test for auto and taxi drivers starts now

The Maharashtra Transport Department is taking action against auto and taxi drivers who cannot speak Marathi. This rule requires passenger vehicle drivers to possess practical Marathi knowledge in Maharashtra. Drivers will first receive a one-month notice, followed by a three-month badge suspension if they fail. Persistent refusal to learn Marathi could result in the permanent cancellation of their badge and permit. Furthermore, officials will now test Marathi proficiency before issuing any new permits. 📝

🚗 Family of four dies in deep well accident

A couple and their two toddlers tragically drowned when their car fell into a 20-foot-deep well. The incident happened in Appanapalle village, Siddipet district, on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The victims were identified as 30-year-old Dandugula Raju, 25-year-old Bhagya, and their children, Nihansh (4) and Sanvika (2). Police suspect the crash might have been triggered by a child tugging the wheel or an animal suddenly appearing. Authorities have registered a case and are investigating the exact cause of this fatal accident. 😥

😠 Pak MP alleges UAE hotel snub after flight cancellation

A Pakistani MP, Asad Qaiser, claimed Pakistani travelers were unfairly treated at a UAE hotel after a flight cancellation. The incident occurred when only Indian and US passport holders were offered accommodation at the hotel. This happened despite Pakistan having a positive role in the US-Iran conflict. Qaiser raised the issue in Pakistan's National Assembly, seeking diplomatic intervention from the government. He stressed that this should not affect Pakistan's strong ties with the UAE.

🔬 Inflammation helps colorectal cancer dodge immune attacks

A new study discovered that interleukin-26 (IL-26), an inflammatory protein, aids colorectal cancer evasion. Researchers led by Dr Takumi Itoh at Juntendo University found IL-26 enters cancer cells and alters gene regulation. This creates an immune-evasive state by promoting neutrophil recruitment and suppressing T cells. Blocking IL-26 showed potential to restore anti-tumor immunity in preclinical models. The next step involves testing this pathway in human colorectal cancers for treatment strategies. 🔬

📡 Sonar tech led to 5G revolution by Indian engineer

In 1971, an Indian naval officer was tasked with developing an indigenous sonar system for the Indian Navy. This engineer, Arogyaswami Paulraj, later pivoted his research focus towards wireless communication technology. He pioneered the MIMO concept in 1992, which uses multiple antennas for faster data transmission. This groundbreaking work became the foundation for modern 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi networks globally. His journey shows how initial military problems can lead to massive consumer tech breakthroughs. 💡

🌡️ Fever in early pregnancy: what to know

A fever during the first trimester is concerning because rapid embryonic growth is happening at that time. Dr. Mitul Gupta noted that maternal fever can cause congenital issues like neural tube abnormalities up to the twelfth week. Paracetamol is the recommended antipyretic, but it must be used cautiously and with an obstetrician's advice. Self-medication with NSAIDs like ibuprofen should be avoided, especially during dengue season. Prompt medical assessment is crucial for safeguarding both mother and unborn child. 🤰

🇺🇸 US panel calls for RSS sanctions before Bhagwat visit

A US panel on religious freedom has called for sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members. This call came ahead of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s planned visit to the US on August 29. The panel suggested that RSS leaders should not receive high-level meetings or diplomatic courtesies. The RSS, the ideological parent of the BJP, has been accused of perpetrating attacks on religious minorities. This follows a March recommendation to designate India as a country of particular concern. 😠

🎬 Film Rights Fraud Case Hits Indra Kumar & Ashok Thakeria

An FIR has been registered against director Indra Kumar and producer Ashok Thakeria concerning an alleged Rs 1.50 crore Dhamaal rights fraud. This action followed a complaint filed by Vikas Baldevraj Sahni, owner of Grand Master, in Mumbai. The controversy stems from an agreement dated October 15, 2019, regarding the worldwide rights of the 2007 film Dhamaal. Sahni alleged that the rights were already sold to Shemaroo Entertainment in 2015, prior to Grand Master's deal. Maruti International stated they are in discussions to resolve the rights issue mutually. 🎬

🎬 Batwara 1947 vs Awarapan 2 screen-sharing drama heats up

The screen-sharing conflict between Batwara 1947 and Awarapan 2 has escalated into its second round of issues. PVR Inox Pictures is asking single-screen cinemas to show one screening of Batwara 1947 starting August 21st. This clashes with Awarapan 2's demand for all single-screen shows until August 27th, which is complicated by the release of Toxic on August 26th. Cinema exhibitors are currently in talks with both distributors to find a resolution. The final plans for the second week of both films are anticipated to be set within a few hours.