✨ Skoda Slavia gets a glow-up with 5 fresh changes

Skoda India has officially unveiled the updated Slavia facelift, making the sedan a more complete package. This refresh was introduced for the Slavia model, primarily targeting buyers looking for better features. Key updates include rear seat massagers and an 8-speed AT transmission, debuting around this time. The car also gets styling tweaks, upgraded digital screens, and a 360-degree camera for convenience. The long-term impact of these upgrades on sales will depend on the upcoming pricing structure. 🚗

⚠️ Mark Cuban slams CA tax, warns founders will flee

Billionaire Mark Cuban sharply warned Representative Ro Khanna about California's proposed 5% billionaire tax, Proposition 40. He expressed his concerns about the measure's impact on startup founders located in California. The tax is scheduled for a vote on November 3, aiming to fund healthcare and education programs. Cuban argued that taxing stock-rich founders would force them to sell shares prematurely, undermining growth. If the bill passes, he stated he would make not being a California resident a requirement for his investments. 💸

❤️ Shubhra Shetty addresses family comments on Anurag Kashyap

Shubhra Shetty has spoken out regarding her boyfriend Anurag Kashyap's relationship with her family. The actress addressed the comments, specifically mentioning that her mom has called him 'Bakra'. This discussion highlights the ongoing integration of Kashyap into the Shetty family dynamic. The actress clarified her perspective on the bond between her boyfriend and her relatives. Moving forward, she seems committed to navigating these family dynamics openly.

✨ Rakul Preet Singh shines in designer black gown

Rakul Preet Singh made a major fashion statement in a striking black halter neck gown. This look was seen on the actress, who styled it with high-end accessories. The dress, from The Bling Empire, is valued at Rs 38,499.30 and features hand-applied embellishments. She is set to appear in 'Ramayana: Part One' as Surpanakha. The first part of the film is scheduled for a global release on November 8, 2026. 💃

🔭 August's solar eclipse: Science meets sky view 🔭

A total solar eclipse is set for August 12, 2026, visible across parts of Europe and the North Atlantic. The European Space Agency (ESA) is hosting various activities to educate the public about this rare celestial event. This event allows scientists to observe the solar corona and collect crucial data on the Sun's dynamics. ESA's plan includes live broadcasts and a large public gathering in León for enthusiasts. These observations help enhance understanding of the Sun-Earth system and fundamental physics.

🏏 India keeps WTC hopes alive in Galle win

India secured a 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. Captain Shubman Gill's team achieved this win in Galle, Sri Lanka, boosting their standing in the World Test Championship. This victory marked their fifth win in 10 Tests for the current WTC cycle, raising their PCT from 48.14 to 53.33. Despite the win, India remains fifth in the WTC standings, trailing Australia and South Africa. The team has one more Test in Sri Lanka before heading to New Zealand for their next fixtures. 🏏

📈 Trump tariffs can't shake India's US export grip

Despite Trump's tariff moves, India's dependence on the US as a key export market has largely held steady. The US accounted for about 20 per cent of India’s exports in the 12 months through July, even with tariffs reaching up to 50 per cent. US exports from India hit $87.31 billion in 2025-26, up from $86.51 billion the year before. This shows the challenge in lessening reliance on the world's biggest economy, despite diversification efforts. India is now focusing on FTAs with other major economies to reduce single-market risk. 📈

🔭 Indian scientists predicted sun's corona for August eclipse

A six-member team of Indian solar physicists predicted the Sun’s coronal structure for the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse. This work was done by researchers from Bengaluru’s Raman Research Institute, studying the eclipse visible across northern Russia and the North Atlantic. The team successfully predicted major streamers, but one pseudo-streamer near the south pole did not appear in observations. Researchers will now check if projection effects or model failures caused this mismatch. This understanding is vital for refining future coronal models and improving space-weather predictions. 🧐

⚡ North Karnataka set to boom with EV value chain

The Hubballi-Dharwad-Belagavi region is poised to become a major industrial hub by capitalizing on the growing electric vehicle sector. Sanjay Alamelkar stated this potential during the DRIVE HDB workshop in Hubballi on August 18. The EV sector offers opportunities beyond just vehicle making, spanning batteries and charging infrastructure. Stronger local industry participation is needed to attract investments and boost employment in the region. Collaboration between industry, government, and research is key to building this sustainable ecosystem. ⚡

🎬 Ramayana epic aiming for global blockbuster status

A new two-part adaptation of the Hindu poem Ramayana is set to be a massive global event. It features A-list Indian stars Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, and is produced by DNEG/Sony Pictures. The first part releases globally in November, with a reported budget of $200 to 250 million. This epic aims to take the ancient tale of Rama rescuing Sita to international audiences. The sequel is also planned, with both films potentially becoming the most expensive Indian movies ever made. 🚀

🏏 Boycott names Jadeja his favorite cricketer

Former England batter Geoffrey Boycott named Ravindra Jadeja his favorite present-day cricketer on August 17, 2026. This praise came during the Test against Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium. Jadeja achieved the double of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets, becoming the fourth player in Test history to reach this milestone. He also became the first Indian left-arm bowler to take 350 wickets in the Test format. Next, he joins Kapil Dev, Ian Botham, and Daniel Vettori on this elite list. 🏏