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Mahadev Betting App Co-Owner Nabbed In Dubai, Extradition To India Underway

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Mahadev Betting App Co-Owner Nabbed In Dubai, Extradition To India Underway

Indian authorities have made significant headway in an illegal betting probe tied to the Mahadev online gambling application. Ravi Uppal, one of the two primary owners of the Mahadev app, has been apprehended in Dubai nearly two months after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) charged him with money laundering.

Ravi Uppal, one of the two main owners of the Mahadev online betting app, has been detained in Dubai by the local police. ( Image Source: PTI )

The 43-year-old Uppal was detained based on an Interpol red notice request by ED to Dubai Police. He remains in custody abroad while Indian agencies work to extradite him home to face prosecution.

Uppal and his business partner Sourabh Chandrakar stand accused of running the Mahadev platform that facilitated betting on cricket matches and laundering over Rs. 6,000 crore in illicit proceeds. ED filed a chargesheet against the duo in October citing evidence of concealment and transfer of tainted funds.

Controversially, the agency also claimed Mahadev transfers worth Rs. 508 crore were made to former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. However, Baghel slammed the allegations as politically motivated. The Congress party leader faces re-election within the year.

For his part, Ravi Uppal obtained a Vanuatu passport while retaining his Indian citizenship. The move appears to have been preparation for a quick escape. But with Uppal now detained and soon to be repatriated, Indian authorities can press ahead for a full account of his offshore betting empire’s activities.

The extradition process from Dubai is being coordinated between ED and counterparts in the United Arab Emirates. Once brought back to India, Ravi Uppal will likely join co-conspirator Sourabh Chandrakar behind bars awaiting trial. For over two years, the Mahadev betting ring operated with impunity. But the frantic efforts of its leading operators to stay steps ahead of the law have run their course. Justice may soon catch up to Uppal and his associates.

Ahem Ji Himself Reacts To Latest Viral “Saath Nibhaana Saathiya” Meme

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Ahem Ji Himself Reacts To Latest Viral "Saath Nibhaana Saathiya" Meme

A hilarious scene from the popular Indian soap opera Saath Nibhaana Saathiya has recently gone viral, sparking countless memes and over 40 million views.

Mohammad Nazim is famous for his role as Ahem Ji in ‘Saath Nibhaana Saathiya’. ( Image Source: Instagram/@khilji_nazim )

In the short clip, lead character Gopi Bahu, played by Giaa Manek, opens a container of rice while tunelessly humming “la la la.” Her husband Ahem, portrayed by actor Mohammad Nazim, then inquires about a 7.5 crore question, leaving viewers cracking up.

Nazim himself has now reacted to the meme-worthy moment that has brought the show back into the cultural conversation. In an interview with IANS, the actor expressed mixed emotions about the viral fame. “It feels awkward to talk about what I saw. I react positively with ‘la la la’ but I’m also cautious because my sister, sister-in-law, and fans read my stuff,” he explained.

Nonetheless, Nazim added that the video’s whopping view count was impressive. He pointed out that the scene harkens back to an era when love stories were more subtly addressed in Indian television and film, unlike today. During shoots, he and co-star Giaa Manek used to exchange jokes and find comfort amidst the 100-person crew.

Discussing the impact such viral moments have had on his career, Nazim noted the fleeting nature of internet fame. However, he credited social media with successfully promoting his recent show Tera Mera Sath Rahe.

Amusingly, the actor revealed that fans often confuse his real identity for his on-screen persona Ahem. Laughing, Nazim shared, “People often ask me, ‘Ahem ji, didn’t you go to the office?’ This is a common occurrence even on Sundays.” He jokingly asked for suggestions on how to politely handle the unnecessary prodding into his personal life.

But Mohammad Nazim appears unbothered by trolls, taking the memes and viral clips from Saath Nibhaana Saathiya in stride. For the actor, the randomized internet fame is not as meaningful as more consistent career success. Nonetheless, he and fans worldwide can certainly appreciate the humor brought by Ahem and Gopi Bahu’s lighthearted on-screen escapades.

The End Of An Era: Electronic Entertainment Expo Permanently Shut Down

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Electronic Entertainment Expo Permanently Shut Down

The annual Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), once the premier event in the gaming industry calendar, has been officially shuttered after over 25 years.

E3 began in 1995 as a Los Angeles-based trade show for companies to unveil upcoming video games and gaming hardware to fans, media, and industry partners. Over the years it evolved into a wildly popular convention drawing tens of thousands of attendees anxiously awaiting announcements and hands-on demos from major players like Nintendo, Microsoft, Sony, and more.

However, E3 has faced challenges in recent years. The absence of Sony PlayStation in 2018 triggered other vendors to withdraw as well. The COVID-19 pandemic canceled the 2020 event altogether. And while virtual E3 conferences were held in 2021, momentum fizzled without many big names committing to attend.

This year, with stalwarts like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo opting to steer clear of E3 once again, organizers at the Entertainment Software Association have decided to pull the plug permanently. In an email statement, the ESA confirmed “We have decided to end E3.”

At its peak, E3 offered unforgettable moments for gaming fans. The legendary joint unveiling of the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 back in 2005 stands out. But the writing was on the wall once the convention lost key supporters. Industry insider Geoff Keighley, who previously boosted E3’s profile, withdrew to host the popular Summer Game Fest and The Game Awards events instead.

After 27 years, E3 takes its place in history books. The ESA says its member companies will refocus efforts on supporting the broader gaming community and industry talent for those who fondly remember the excitement of E3’s glory years – thanks for the memories. But the video game convention showcase scene is evolving in new directions beyond E3.

Indian Shares Down As IT Drags; Volatility Persists

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Sensex Breaches 71,000 Milestone Amid Global Rally

Indian stocks traded lower on Wednesday as information technology stocks dragged the market lower amid volatility.

The BSE Sensex fell 250 points to 69,300 in morning deals. The NSE Nifty 50 index dropped over 70 points to quote below 20,850.

Software exporters led the declines, with Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, and Tech Mahindra slipping over 1% each. Axis Bank and Bajaj Finserv also weighed on indexes.

In the broader market, mid and smallcap shares saw selective buying. Media and auto stocks rose, while the IT index tumbled nearly 1%.
small-cap
On Tuesday, benchmark indexes snapped a three-day rally as the Sensex shed 380 points and the Nifty declined 90 points on profit booking in banks, financials, and metals.

Analysts expect the choppiness to persist in the near term after the recent up move. While foreign fund inflows continue, investors remain cautious ahead of the RBI policy decision on Friday.

The central bank is expected to maintain rates this week but its commentary on inflation and growth will provide guidance.

In global markets, Asian shares were mixed as China’s Covid situation and uncertainty over rate hikes in the U.S. kept sentiment in check.

Australia Has Decided to Tighten Student Visa Rules, Plans to Cut Migrant Intake

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Australia Has Decided to Tighten Student Visa Rules, Plans to Cut Migrant Intake
Australia Has Decided to Tighten Student Visa Rules, Plans to Cut Migrant Intake

On 11th December 2023, Australia announced that it would tighten visa rules for international students and low-skilled workers, which could halve its migrant intake over the next two years, and the government plans to overhaul what is said to be a “broken” migration system.
Under the new policies, international students would need to get higher ratings on English tests, and there would be more scrutiny done on a student’s second visa application that intends for a prolonged stay in the country.


Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil stated during a media briefing, “Our strategy will bring migration numbers back to normal,”‘


“But it’s not just about numbers. It’s not just about this moment and the experience of migration our country is having at this time. This is about Australia’s future.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, over the weekend, commented that Australia’s migration numbers needed to be taken back to a “substantial level” and that the system is completely broken. O’Neil further stated that the government’s targeted reforms would already be putting downward pressure on net overseas migration and further make an expected decline in migrant numbers.


The decision to put restrictions and new policies on migration comes after net migration was expected to have peaked at a record 510,000 in 2022-2023. The home affairs minister said that the net overseas migration in 2022-2023 was mostly driven by overseas students.


Australia decided to boost its annual migration numbers last year to help businesses in the country recruit staff after the COVID-19 pandemic brought tight border controls and kept foreign workers and students out of the country for nearly two years. However, the sudden influx of foreign students and workers has put pressure on the already stressed-out rental market, with homelessness on the rise in the country.

Newlyweds Randeep Hooda And Lin Laishram Dazzle At Mumbai Reception

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Newlyweds Randeep Hooda And Lin Laishram Dazzle At Mumbai Reception

Newly married Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda and his wife Lin Laishram played gracious hosts at their glittering Mumbai reception on Wednesday, dazzling guests in elegant ethnic ensembles.

Bride Lin stole the spotlight in a scene-stealing red sequin saree with an ombre print, letting the pleated pallu cascade down her shoulder. She cinched her waist with a gold belt and draped a matching sheer veil.

The Manipuri actor is accessorized with chokers, bangles, and rings. Her glam makeup featured kohl-lined eyes, mascara-laden lashes, winged eyeliner, and glossy lips. She styled her hair in a neat side bun with face-framing strands.

Groom Randeep complemented her in a black velvet bandh gala sherwani with front button closures, pockets, and full sleeves. He teamed it with fitted trousers and dress shoes, sporting a clean-shaven look and slick hairstyle.

The couple, who wed in an intimate Imphal ceremony on November 29, hosted a star-studded Mumbai reception as their grand post-wedding celebration. Their coordinated traditional ensembles adhered to ethnic glamour.

Paparazzi snapped inside glimpses of the duo playing perfect hosts, capping weeks of festivities. Their sharp fashion game keeps inspiring bridal wear goals for contemporary Indian couples.

Randeep and Lin continue commanding attention as Tinsel Town’s latest power pair. Last night’s red carpet reception look stayed true to their signature sophisticated style.

As their whirlwind romance culminates in wedded bliss, their bold fashion statements will keep enthralling fans beyond the wedding spotlight.

Flipkart Big Year-End Sale: Discounts On iPhone 14, Galaxy S22, More

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Flipkart Big Year-End Sale: Discounts On iPhone 14, Galaxy S22, More

E-commerce major Flipkart’s annual Big Year End Sale offers attractive discounts on premium smartphones like the iPhone 14, Samsung Galaxy S22, and Google Pixel 7a.

The five-day sale ending December 16 provides a 10% instant discount for Bank of Baroda, HDFC, and PNB cardholders. Additional bank offers to add to the pricing benefits on popular devices.

The Apple iPhone 14 sees significant savings worth ₹11,000 plus exchange discounts up to ₹34,500. HDFC Bank cardholders get ₹500 off further sweetening the deal.

Similarly, Samsung’s 2022-released Galaxy S22 5G comes at an effective ₹39,999, down from its ₹73,000 launch price. Google’s mid-range Pixel 7a drops to ₹37,999 including a ₹1,000 discount for PNB card payments.

Motorola Edge 40 buyers can grab an effective ₹5,000 price cut on the ₹30,000 device. Flipkart quotes ₹26,300 without exchange benefits or ₹25,500 after exchange dealings.

Other phones like Nothing Phone (1), Realme 9i 5G, and Infinix Zero 5G also see attractive year-end pricing during the seasonal sale event.

For foldable fans, the OPPO Find N sees a discount plus bank incentives, while the Moto Razr 2022 gets exchange price cuts. Tablets and wearables also come cheaper.

With holiday gifting and New Year budget purchases set to peak, Flipkart tempts buyers with alluring phone deals across categories, making premium devices more accessible.

WhatsApp Testing Dedicated Reply Bar For Status Updates Like Instagram Stories

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WhatsApp Testing Dedicated Reply Bar For Status Updates Like Instagram Stories

WhatsApp’s latest beta version shows the messaging platform replicating Instagram’s prominent Stories feature by testing a persistent reply bar for viewing status updates.

Android users on v2.22.26.3 and iOS testers noticed the app now displays a fixed response strip at the bottom when checking ephemeral photo and video statuses posted by contacts.

The change replaces the previous swipe-up action to message or react, aligning WhatsApp’s interface with Instagram Stories’ ever-present reply field. Tapping may also show emojis before sending texts.

Launched in 2017, WhatsApp’s Snapchat-like Status feature lets users share disappearing 24-hour updates. The reply bar modification levels UI differences with Meta-stablemate Instagram.

Integrating creative tools or stickers from Stories to elevate Status is anticipated next. For now, sharing WhatsApp updates directly as Instagram Stories is being tested.

The persistent response box is among recent shifts, including backing for HD images and video, to boost the Status experience. But some see it as a stepping stone for deeper integration with Instagram.

As Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg bids to tie together his family of apps, WhatsApp cherry-picks the best of Stories in a bid to boost its popularity.

The company straddles a fine line between unification and each platform’s unique appeal. But for now, users seem receptive to importing selected Instagram features into the messaging service.

Fighter: Makers Unveil Karan Singh Grover As Fierce Squadron Leader Sartaj Gill

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Fighter: Makers Unveil Karan Singh Grover As Fierce Squadron Leader Sartaj Gill

The makers of the upcoming aerial action flick “Fighter” unveiled a fierce first-look poster of actor Karan Singh Grover as Squadron Leader Sartaj Gill on Tuesday.

Makers of ‘Fighter’ drop Karan Singh Grover’s first look poster. ( Image Source: Karan Singh Grover/Instagram. )

Grover steps into the shoes of the squadron pilot of the elite “Air Dragons” unit, with the call sign “Taj.” His intense avatar channels both grit and charisma befitting his character.

“Squadron Leader Sartaj Gill. Call Sign: Taj. Designation: Squadron Pilot. Unit: Air Dragons,” Grover tweeted while sharing his poster on social media.

His wife and actress Bipasha Basu cheered him on by posting his combat avatar on Instagram. Lead stars Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor also promoted their co-star’s reveal across platforms.

Earlier, the producers displayed the first looks of Roshan as squadron leader Shamsher Pathani, Padukone as squadron leader Minal Rathore, and Kapoor essaying group captain Rakesh Jai Singh.

Billed as an adrenaline-charged patriotic drama, “Fighter” is directed by Siddharth Anand of “War” fame and produced by Viacom18 Studios.

The high-budget film about an elite Air Force unit is slated for theatrical release on January 25, 2024. It promises gripping aerial action sequences and a stirring narrative, with Grover’s Squadron Leader Gill adding macho appeal.

The gradual unveiling of character looks builds intrigue for one of next year’s most awaited potential blockbusters. Backed by a pedigreed crew and stellar cast, “Fighter” seems set for box office glory.

Man Arrested For Threatening To Kill Indian-American Presidential Contender Vivek Ramaswamy

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Man Arrested For Threatening To Kill Indian-American Presidential Contender Vivek Ramaswamy

A New Hampshire man was arrested Saturday for allegedly threatening to kill Indian-American entrepreneur and Republican U.S. presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, 37, authorities confirmed this week.

Tyler Anderson, 30, faces federal charges after responding to a campaign event notification from Ramaswamy’s team with explicit death threats, officials said. The text message stated violent intentions to “blow [his] brains out” and harm those attending his speech.

The threat, discovered in a deleted folder, led the FBI to search Anderson’s residence. They arrested him and seized his phone, uncovering additional disturbing messages about others. One text welcomed the candidate’s location to facilitate shooting him, referring to a mass shooting.

Ramaswamy, a biotech CEO pursuing the 2024 nomination, said he feels well-protected by law enforcement whom he thanked. But he avoided questions on increasing personal security after the chilling threats.

His spokesperson slammed the rhetoric as an incitement of violence against Republicans, also criticizing media groups and “left-wing cranks.” The campaign prayed for Americans’ safety amid the disturbing incident.

If convicted for interstate communication of lethal intentions, Anderson faces up to five years in prison plus a $250,000 fine. The high-profile intimidation attempt, however isolated, underscores hazards in the vitriolic U.S. political climate entering the election cycle.

While Ramaswamy downplayed concerns in his first run for public office, the criminal indictment offers a sobering reminder of risks from fringe elements that warrant vigilance. Security experts emphasize such threats must be called out regardless of target or party affiliation.