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Bollywood Actor Rajpal Yadav requests smoking area in Jail

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Bollywood Actor

NEW DELHI: Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav, who surrendered to authorities in connection with a check bounce case, has suggested that prisons should provide designated areas for smoking, similar to facilities at railway stations and airports.

Jail Surrender and Release

Yadav surrendered to jail authorities as per Delhi High Court orders related to multiple check dishonor cases. On Wednesday, he was granted release and thanked the film fraternity and his fans for their support.

Speaking to the media in his native village in Shahjahanpur, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming affection he received from the public.

Suggestions on Prison Reforms

The actor emphasized that jails should function as reform centers, providing organized opportunities for inmates to change and improve themselves.

He specifically recommended that designated smoking areas should be provided inside prisons for inmates.

Court Proceedings

The Delhi High Court had withdrawn leniency previously granted in Yadav’s multiple check dishonor cases, instructing him to surrender by February 4.

Yadav complied by reporting to Tihar Jail.

Reports indicate that his lawyer requested additional time for payment of INR 5 million, which the court rejected.

This incident has sparked discussions on prison reforms and facilities for inmates, highlighting Yadav’s unusual but practical suggestions regarding jail amenities.

US deploys largest aircraft carrier near Iran amid rising tensions

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US deploys

The United States’ largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, has entered the Mediterranean amid rising tensions with Iran and ongoing nuclear negotiations between the two nations.

Naval Deployment Amid Rising Tensions

According to international news agencies, the second round of US-Iran nuclear talks has begun, but tensions remain high. Monitoring websites reported that the USS Gerald R. Ford, part of a Carrier Strike Group, is currently transiting the Strait of Gibraltar, signaling rapid movement toward the Middle East.

The deployment follows orders from US President Donald Trump, who last week instructed the carrier strike group to move toward the region as military options against Iran were being considered.

US defense officials expect the carrier to reach the Middle East within a few days, becoming operationally ready for potential missions against Iran.

Operational Readiness

Images released by the US Department of Defense show F/A-18F Super Hornet jets taking off from the deck of the USS Gerald R. Ford in the Mediterranean, highlighting the carrier’s operational preparedness.

With tensions escalating in the region, this deployment is considered a critical strategic move by the United States as the nuclear negotiations continue.

FBR orders online monitoring of over 14 business sectors

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FBR orders online

LAHORE: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced a nationwide plan to monitor business activities online by mandating Point of Sale (POS) systems for more than 14 types of businesses.

POS Requirement for Various Sectors

According to the FBR notification: Hotels, restaurants, guest houses, marriage halls, marquees, and race clubs must install POS systems, except where air conditioning is unavailable.

Retail shops, hospitals, clubs, beauty parlors, and other service providers must also be linked to the FBR system.

Vehicles operating in cities, courier and cargo services, and medical professionals such as dentists, physiotherapists, plastic and hair surgeons, veterinary doctors, medical labs, X-ray, CT, and MRI centers are required to implement POS.

Beauty parlors, massage centers, pedicure centers, and private hospitals must also comply, with hospitals charging a fee of 500 PKR granted an exemption.

Expansion to Health Clubs, Gyms, and Educational Institutions

Health clubs, gyms, swimming pools, multipurpose clubs, civil and non-civil polo clubs, chartered accountants, and cost management accountants are now included in the POS mandate.

Retailers, manufacturers, importers, foreign exchange dealers, currency exchange companies, private educational institutions, and vocational training centers are also required to integrate online systems.

Institutions charging a monthly fee of 1,000 PKR are exempt from the POS requirement.

Cities Covered and Implementation

The FBR notification specifically mentions Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, directing all gyms, clubs, and other establishments in these cities to comply. Retailers, manufacturers, and importers nationwide must integrate their systems with FBR online monitoring to enhance transparency and tax compliance.

This move is part of the FBR’s broader strategy to digitize and monitor business operations across Pakistan.

Zimbabwe outclass Sri Lanka by six wickets

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Zimbabwe outclass

Colombo: Zimbabwe delivered a commanding performance to defeat hosts Sri Lanka by six wickets in a Group B clash of the ICC T20 World Cup.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to bat first and posted 178 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Pathum Nissanka led the charge with a solid 62 runs, while Rathnayake contributed a valuable 44 runs to anchor the innings.

Confident Run Chase

In reply, Zimbabwe chased down the 179-run target comfortably in the final over, losing just four wickets.

Opener Brian Bennett remained unbeaten on 63, guiding his side home with composure. He was well supported by: Sikandar Raza – 45 runs,  Marumani – 34 runs and Ryan Burl – 23 runs.

Zimbabwe Top Group B

With this victory, Zimbabwe finished top of Group B with seven points, remaining unbeaten in the group stage.

Zimbabwe won three out of four matches, registering victories over Australia and Sri Lanka, while one match was washed out due to rain.

It is worth noting that both Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka had already qualified for the Super 8 stage from Group B prior to this encounter.

Former Prince Andrew arrested over misconduct allegations

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Former Prince Andrew

The younger brother of King Charles III, has reportedly been taken into custody over allegations of misconduct in public office.

According to reports, Ex-Prince Andrew — formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — is accused of providing confidential government documents to disgraced American financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Investigators from Thames Valley Police detained him on Thursday for questioning in connection with the allegations.

Investigation Into Official Role

Earlier this month, police confirmed they were examining claims that Prince Andrew, during his tenure as a trade envoy, may have shared sensitive official documents with Epstein.

Prince Andrew has previously denied any involvement in illegal activities related to Epstein and has expressed regret over their association. However, following the recent release of millions of pages of documents by US authorities, he has not issued further comment.

First of Its Kind Arrest

The reported detention marks the first time a senior member of the British royal family has faced arrest under such allegations.

In a statement, King Charles III said the reports concerning Prince Andrew were “a matter of deep concern,” adding that authorities would have the full support of the royal family and that “the law must take its course.”

He further stated that it would be inappropriate to comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Palace Response

Buckingham Palace has previously said it would fully cooperate with any police investigation and reiterated concerns regarding the allegations surrounding Prince Andrew’s conduct.

The case has intensified scrutiny following the release of more than three million pages of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, which allegedly referenced official reports from overseas visits in 2010 to Vietnam, Singapore, and other countries.

Taylor Swift named world’s most popular artist again

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Taylor Swift named

New York: American pop superstar Taylor Swift has once again been declared the world’s most popular recording artist, extending her remarkable streak and surpassing her own previous records.

The 36-year-old singer secured the top position for the sixth consecutive time in the annual global ranking released by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which evaluates worldwide music sales and streaming performance.

Swift previously topped the list in 2014, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024, while the honor went to South Korean band BTS in 2020 and 2021.

2025 Rankings and Recent Success

In the 2025 list, Swift retained the number one spot, followed by prominent artists including Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, and Billie Eilish.

The latest recognition adds to the success of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, released in October 2025.

 The album’s lead single, The Fate of Ophelia, topped charts for several months, while her new track Opalite reached number one in the United Kingdom and secured a prominent position on major US music charts.

Swift’s continued dominance reflects her enduring global appeal and consistent commercial performance across streaming, sales, and international markets.

AI creates big-budget cinematic experience in 24 hours

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AI creates big

A three-minute AI-generated sci-fi film clip has gone viral on social media after claims that content equivalent to a $200 million high-budget production was created within just 24 hours using artificial intelligence.

The clip was released by German creative studio The Dor Brothers, which stated that the entire project was produced solely with AI tools — without traditional cameras, actors, physical sets, or conventional VFX processing.

High Production Value, Minimal Time

While the $200 million figure does not represent the actual budget, it refers to the production value typically associated with large Hollywood blockbusters. The video features large-scale urban destruction, cinematic explosions, and sweeping camera movements reminiscent of major studio films.

According to the studio, the project was developed using tools available on its DorLabs platform, where concept development, visual generation, and editing were largely assisted by AI systems. Elements such as dynamic camera motion and expansive cityscapes — which normally require months of work and hundreds of VFX artists — were completed within a single day.

Mixed Reactions Online

The viral clip has sparked widespread debate across the entertainment industry. Many viewers praised its photorealistic visuals and fluid animation, while others pointed out flaws in physics, limited character development, and shallow storytelling. Critics argue that the project resembles a technical AI demonstration rather than a fully realized cinematic narrative.

Implications for the Film Industry

The experiment highlights the rapid advancement of generative AI in filmmaking and raises broader questions about the future of traditional production models. Analysts suggest that while AI can now replicate large-scale cinematic visuals in record time, it still struggles to match the emotional depth, character complexity, and narrative nuance delivered by human creators.

The viral clip underscores a growing reality: AI is no longer limited to short-form content or background VFX work. It may soon play a substantial role in full-length feature films, potentially reshaping the creative and economic structure of the global film industry.

Legendary screenwriter Salim Khan faces possible brain surgery

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Legendary screenwriter

Mumbai: Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, father of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, has reportedly experienced a deterioration in his health, with doctors considering brain surgery following a sudden medical complication.

According to Indian media reports, a sharp spike in blood pressure affected a blood vessel in the right side of his brain. He is currently on ventilator support while a team of specialists closely monitors his condition and evaluates the possibility of an urgent surgical procedure.

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Salim Khan was brought to Lilavati Hospital two days ago and admitted to the emergency ward before being shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to the seriousness of his condition. Salman Khan was seen outside the hospital but did not speak to the media.

Salim Khan is one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated writers. In collaboration with Javed Akhtar, he created several iconic films that remain classics today, including Sholay, Zanjeer, Haathi Mere Saathi, and Mr. India.

He celebrated his 90th birthday on November 24, 2025, and continues to hold a distinguished place in the Indian film industry. Following news of his illness, fans and members of the entertainment fraternity have been offering prayers and well wishes for his speedy recovery.

Sustainable peace impossible without independent Palestine, says PM

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Sustainable peace

WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that achieving sustainable peace in Gaza is Pakistan’s mission, emphasizing that the establishment of a free and sovereign Palestinian state is essential for lasting stability in the region.

Addressing the inaugural session of the Gaza Peace Board, chaired by US President Donald Trump in Washington, the Prime Minister termed his participation in the meeting an honor and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

“Sustainable peace in Gaza is our mission. We pray for success in achieving lasting peace. Today marks a golden chapter in history for peace in the Middle East,” the Prime Minister stated.

PM Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Palestinians must be granted their rights in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions, underscoring that an independent and sovereign Palestinian state is their legitimate right.

He further stated that ceasefire violations in Gaza must come to an end to pave the way for durable peace and long-term regional stability.

The Prime Minister also appreciated President Donald Trump’s role in conflict resolution, noting that his timely intervention helped prevent escalation during tensions between Pakistan and India.

“President Trump’s intervention prevented a major catastrophe in South Asia. The ceasefire saved thousands of precious lives,” he remarked.

The Gaza Peace Board meeting aims to discuss post-conflict reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and mechanisms to ensure sustainable peace in the region.

Northern Waziristan girl’s bowling talent goes viral

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Northern Waziristan

PESHAWAR: A young girl from Shiwaa Tehsil, North Waziristan, has taken social media by storm with her impressive bowling skills, catching the attention of Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi, who has included her in the upcoming Zalmi Women League.

The girl, Aina Wazir, showcased her fast bowling during a local children’s cricket match, and the video quickly went viral across social media platforms. Viewers praised her talent, leaving messages such as “Mashallah” and wishing her a bright future in cricket.

Local cricket enthusiasts highlighted that while Pakistan has immense young talent, lack of proper facilities and opportunities often prevents these gifted players from reaching their potential.

Upon seeing the viral video, Javed Afridi expressed his admiration for Aina Wazir, calling her “an extraordinarily talented young player” and emphasizing that such talent deserves the right platform. He announced that she will be part of the Zalmi Women League, a league designed to provide girls the opportunity to play, showcase their skills, and inspire others.

Afridi further assured that Aina would be provided with all necessary cricket equipment and facilities to help her develop her skills and seize the opportunities she deserves. He also urged social media users to share Aina Wazir’s contact details so the team could reach out to her directly.

This inclusion marks a significant step in promoting young female talent from remote areas of Pakistan in professional cricket.