🌟 Shah Rukh Khan tops India's brand value list 👑

Shah Rukh Khan has topped India's celebrity brand rankings according to the Kroll Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2025. The superstar holds the top spot with an estimated brand value of USD 177.9 million in India. His value jumped by approximately 47% over the last two years, rising from USD 120.7 million in 2023. This surge comes as the combined top 25 celebrities are valued at USD 2 billion. He is now gearing up for the anticipated film, King.

🍎 Apple price hikes coming for iPhone, Watch, AirPods?

Apple previously raised prices on 14 products on June 25th, citing memory chip shortages driven by AI data centres. Despite sparing the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods initially, analysts now expect these products to see price jumps. The iPhone 18 Pro is a key focus, with estimates suggesting its starting price could rise significantly. TechInsights projects DRAM and flash storage costs will quadruple by autumn, increasing the bill of materials for the next flagship. The September event is anticipated to officially confirm these potential price adjustments along with new hardware launches. 💸

🚗 2026 Scorpio N facelift: powertrain options revealed

The new Scorpio N facelift has been launched with a starting price of Rs 13.69 lakh ex-showroom. It is available in seven trims, featuring two engine options: a 2-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The SUV offers six-speed MT/AT transmissions and RWD or 4WD configurations. New additions include a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 540-degree camera for safety. Mahindra has priced the SUV up to Rs 25.49 lakh ex-showroom. 🚀

😟 EPFO claims delayed due to IT shortage, staff gaps

An EPFO officers' association wrote to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya regarding major delays in PF claim settlements. The concerns were raised in relation to the EPFO office across India. As of August 3, 2026, lakhs of auto-processed claims have been pending over 20 days despite digital pushes. The association also highlighted chronic manpower shortages and called for pension system reforms. They urged the government to intervene to improve the retirement fund's overall functioning. 😟

☀️ Sun's tiny swirls shock scientists 🤯

Scientists observed incredibly detailed images of the Sun's surface, revealing tiny plasma whirlpools. These structures were captured by the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. The discovery was made on August 06, 2026. This finding might change how we understand how the Sun stores and releases its explosive energy. Future research will use this data to gain insights into the Sun's magnetic energy.

💥 Ukraine Hits Russian Oil Spots Deep Inside

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that forces struck multiple oil facilities deep inside Russia during nighttime operations. The targets included a refinery in Bashkortostan and another in the Yaroslavl region. These attacks, along with hits on Black Sea vessels, aim to disrupt Moscow's wartime economy. Russian defenses reported shooting down 605 Ukrainian drones over various regions on Thursday. Zelenskyy is actively seeking more interceptor missiles from allies to counter intense Russian bombardments.

🏏 Miraz century lifts Bangladesh in Darwin match 🏏

Mehidy Hasan Miraz scored an unbeaten century to help Bangladesh lift the warm-up match on the opening day. This happened in Darwin against a Cricket Australia XI, where Miraz scored 109 runs. The match ended with Cricket Australia XI scoring 51 for 2, while Bangladesh reached 263 all out on the first day. The performance comes before the first Test starts on August 13, marking Bangladesh's first Test tour of Australia in 23 years. The team has also seen Litton Das added to the squad for the upcoming series.

💔 Ateeq Ahmed's Son Aban Dies in Crash

Aban Ahmed, the son of Ateeq Ahmed, passed away following a severe road accident. The incident occurred when his car collided with a road divider. The crash resulted in the deaths of two other individuals and left three people injured. This tragic event underscores the dangers present on roadways. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident. 💔

🎬 Awarapan 2 trailer drops with big cast lineup

The trailer for 'Awarapan 2' has officially been released, showcasing the sequel's main cast. Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Puran Gabbi, and Shabana Azmi are featured in the film. The trailer itself was released recently, generating buzz among cinema fans. The movie is expected to continue the narrative established in the original film. Fans are eagerly waiting for the official release date of Awarapan 2.

📢 Congress backs Jharkhand student protests on exam issues

The Congress party has officially supported the ongoing student protests regarding alleged irregularities in Jharkhand civil service examinations. K Raju, the state in-charge, met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and submitted a memorandum detailing the students' demands. The state government has now formed a four-member ministerial committee to engage in talks with the protesting students. Protesters started their sit-in at Ranchi’s Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium on July 25, demanding the cancellation of the April 19 test. They plan to surround the Vidhan Sabha on August 10 if their demands are not met. 📚

🔥 SC slams civic bodies over Lucknow coaching fire tragedy

The Supreme Court issued a contempt notice to the LDA Vice-Chairman regarding the Lucknow coaching fire tragedy that killed 15 people. This action was taken by Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and R. Mahadevan in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The tragedy occurred on June 22, 2026, and the facility had a demolition order from May 10, 2026. The Court noted serious concerns about planning regulation enforcement despite the building's commercial use. The LDA Vice-Chairman must now appear to show cause for non-compliance with court orders. 😥