Hyundai Motor chief vows AI-driven growth, faster decision-making

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Seoul, (IANS): Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung said on Monday the artificial intelligence (AI)-driven industrial transition will create greater growth opportunities for the group, while calling for faster decision-making supported by clear and timely communication.

In a pre-recorded New Year's roundtable with senior executives, Chung said the group's extensive data on "moving physical assets" such as vehicles and robots, along with its manufacturing process data, constitutes a strong competitive edge in the AI era, reports Yonhap news agency.

"This is a powerful advantage that big tech companies cannot easily replicate," Chung said. "For Hyundai Motor Group, which possesses data, capital and manufacturing capabilities, AI is a game in which we have a strong chance of success."

He added that the group must broaden its business ecosystem through collaboration with a wide range of partners in the AI sector amid growing global uncertainties.

The South Korean automaker expects heightened uncertainty in the global business environment this year, driven by the restructuring of global supply chains, slowing economic growth and increasing geopolitical fragmentation.

Commenting on the year ahead, Chung said risks long anticipated by the group are likely to materialise.

To address these challenges, the chairman called for clearer situational awareness and more agile decision-making based on fast and transparent communication.

"Reports should include the reporting employee's own analysis and conclusions and be shared quickly with the right people at the right time," he said.

Chung also underscored the importance of organisational transformation rooted in deep reflection, as competition in the global automotive industry continues to intensify.

As for the group's future direction, Chung said significant growth opportunities lie ahead amid major shifts in artificial intelligence, software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and future mobility.

Previously, Hyundai Motor Group announced plans to invest 125.2 trillion won (US$86.5 billion) over five years through 2030."The investment will not only be used to expand the group's businesses but also to pursue qualitative growth," Chung said. Hyundai Motor chief vows AI-driven growth, faster decision-making | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Hema Malini reveals one of her most beautiful memories with Dharmendra

(Photo: Hema Malini/ Instagram) IANS

Mumbai, (IANS) Veteran actress and politician Hema Malini has been using social media to relive some cherished memories with her late husband and legendary actor Dharmendra.

In her latest post, Hema posted a still from the "Ek Hi Khawab" track from their 1977 outing "Kirana". She revealed that this is her and Dharam Ji's most beloved memory from the romantic entertainer.

The "Ek Hi Khawab" song enjoys the melodious voice of Bhupinder Singh with tunes scored by legendary R. D. Burman.

"One of the most beautiful memories of me and Dharamji from the movie Kinara. It was directed by Gulzar saab and the song sung by Bhupinderji and music by R . D. Burman. #memories #memoriesforlife #kinara (sic)," Hema captioned the post.

Apart from "Kinara", one of the most adored Bollywood duos, Dharmendra and Hema Malini have shared the screen in several hits such as "Sharafat" (1970), "Tum Haseen Main Jawaan" (1970), "Naya Zamana" (1971), "Raja Jani" (1972), "Seeta Aur Geeta" (1972), "Jugnu" (1973), "Pratiggya" (1975), "Sholay" (1975), "Dream Girl" (1977), "Chacha Bhatija" (1977), "Azaad" (1978), "Dillagi" (1978), "Aas Paas" (1981) "Razia Sultan" (1983), and "The Burning Train" (1980), to name just a few.

Earlier today, Hema treated her Insta Fam with another set of rare photographs with late Dharmendra, which she termed as the “treasured” moments from their family archives.

She revealed that revisiting these pictures brought back a wave of emotions for her.

Taking to her IG, Hema dropped a string of photographs posing with Dharmendra. A couple of these photographs also included their daughters Ahana and Esha, flaunting their beautiful smiles as they faced the camera with their father.

“Some lovely family moments… simply treasured photos. I know it is a surfeit of photos but these have not been published and my emotions are unfolding as I see these. #memories #family #moments,” Hema wrote in the caption.Bollywood legend Dharmendra passed away on November 24. He had been hospitalised at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after reportedly complaining of breathlessness. Once he received the necessary treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and continued his recovery at home. Hema Malini reveals one of her most beautiful memories with Dharmendra | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Ananya Panday tells why her ‘fashion dream' was 'filled with emotion’

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Mumbai, (IANS) Bollywood actress Ananya Panday strutted the runway for ace couturier Rohit Bal, who made a return to the catwalk a year after his health scare, described the experience as “fashion dream filled with emotion”.

Ananya, who was the showstopper for the grand finale of Rohit Bal’s show, took to Instagram, where he posted a string of pictures in the designer’s signature velvet black lehenga with embroidered roses.

She captioned the pictures: “Walking for and with @rohitbalofficial what a fashion dream filled with so much emotion and it’s always fun to be back with my family @lakmeindia @lakmefashionwk.”

It was last year, when Bal, known for popularly using lotus and peacock motifs, was admitted in a hospital in Gurugram due to a pre-existing cardiac condition. He had suffered a massive heart attack in 2010. He was reportedly critical and had been put on ventilator support.

Earlier this week, it was announced that the actress joined the world of podcasts with ‘So Positive Podcast’, which is aimed at navigating mental health in the digital age.

In a candid conversations about mental health and social media, Ananya will be seen engaging in conversation with some of the top influencers like Prajakta Koli, Sumukhi Suresh, who has also written the dialogues of ‘CTRL’, Yashraj Mukhate, Ankush Bahuguna, and BeYouNick.

Each episode will feature in-depth discussions and personal stories from the creators, providing listeners with actionable strategies for maintaining mental balance in today’s hyperconnected world. The first episode of the ‘So Positive Podcast’ will drop on October 15.

Earlier, the actress attended a fashion event in the French capital, and dropped several pictures and videos of her outing in Paris.On the acting front, Ananya was seen in the screenlife thriller “CTRL”, which revolved around a a popular social media influencer couple. The story then tells the tale of how an AI app is used to erase the digital existence on a computer and social media and how the maker of the AI secretly begins to take control of data. Ananya Panday tells why her ‘fashion dream' was 'filled with emotion’ | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Selena Gomez talks about her hope to have children 'one day'

Los Angeles,  (IANS) Singer-actress Selena Gomez has talked about her desire to “one day” have children.

The actress had posted an Instagram Story celebrating her role on the Wizards of Waverly Place sequel series, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.

“Alex Russo is a mommy,” she wrote, referring to her character.

“Hopefully one day that’ll be me.” She included a clip from her final episode on the series, reports people.com.

In the series’ two-part finale, it was revealed that Alex is the mother of Billie Russo played by Janice LeAnn Brown.

After the episode aired, Gomez and Brown spoke about their on and off-screen bond.

“It was very emotional, especially for me and her after the table read,” Brown, 15, said in an interview on Disney Channel’s YouTube page.

“We were just puddles,” Gomez said.

Before the show’s release, Gomez opened up about her connection to Alex Russo on the August 7 episode of Jake Shane’s Therapuss podcast, calling the reboot a "new, refreshing take" on the series. She reflected on what it's been like returning to "an older version of Alex."

The character "ultimately shaped who I am, because I feel like I am Alex," Gomez said.

In a March episode of the Jay Shetty Podcast, Gomez and her now-husband Benny Blanco said that they can't wait to start a family together. The couple tied the knot on September 27 in California.

"I don’t know what will happen, obviously, but I love children," Gomez said in March.

"I love making (children) laugh; they're just so sweet. So absolutely, when that day comes, I’m so excited for it.”

Blanco at that time chimed in to add that when Gomez sees children, she will “immediately go to the kids and have these conversations for hours with the kids.”"When you started doing this you were a kid and that was your way to connect to people and I feel like you still feel like you have that obligation to connect with young kids," he pointed out. You shaped so many young people’s lives, whether it was Barney, Wizards (of Waverly Place)... you’re still finding your way to do that." Selena Gomez talks about her hope to have children 'one day' | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Leonardo DiCaprio shares fond memories of working with Diane Keaton

Los Angeles, (IANS): The Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio is recollecting his fond memories of working with the late actress Diane Keaton.

The 50-year-old actor, who starred in 1996's ‘Marvin's Room’ with the actress, paid tribute to the late Academy Award winner following the news of her death on Saturday, reports ‘People’ magazine.

Sharing a photo of himself and Keaton seemingly taken around the time of filming some three decades ago, Leonardo DiCaprio wrote on his Instagram Stories, "Diane Keaton was one of a kind. Brilliant, funny, and unapologetically herself. A legend, and icon, and a truly kind human being. I had the honor of working with her at 18. She will be deeply missed”.

As per ‘People’, Keaton played Bessie, the aunt of DiCaprio's troubled teen character, Hank, in the Jerry Zaks-directed drama, whose star-studded cast also boasted Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro.

And Leo certainly stood out to Keaton even decades later, as she complimented his "beauty" on Instagram back in November 2021, though it involved a hilarious (yet flattering) mix-up. It all began when she posted a slideshow video of famous celebrity men with the caption, "Male beauty”. In a voiceover, Keaton provided commentary for each image, kicking off her collection with a picture of whom she thought was Leo.

"Talk about beauty, Leonardo DiCaprio", Keaton narrated over a black-and-white image of a young man staring at the camera. "Give me a break. I knew him when he was a kid”.But Reese Witherspoon chimed in to good-naturedly correct Keaton, writing in the comment section of her post, "Diane, the first one is my son”. While Keaton thought she was posting an image of a young Leo, the ‘Annie Hall’ actress was apparently really showing her followers a picture of Deacon Phillippe, Witherspoon's then-18-year-old son with ex-husband Ryan Phillippe. Keaton replied to the ‘Morning Show’ star with a surprised emoji while Witherspoon, now 49, simply wrote back a laughing emoji. Leonardo DiCaprio shares fond memories of working with Diane Keaton | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Nuclear plants could safely operate for 100 years, suggests Grossi

The IAEA director general spoke at the opening of the #Atoms4Climate programme of events

As the nuclear sector takes its place at the COP27 gathering, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s director general says that Long Term Operation (extending the lifetime of existing nuclear plants) is the "unsung hero of the fight against global warming". 

Rafael Mariano Grossi was speaking at the first full day of events at the #Atoms4Climate stage at the 27th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt.

Grossi and a host of other industry figures stressed the important role nuclear must play in efforts to cut carbon emissions and to tackle climate change. He said that the fact there was a pavilion at COP27 for nuclear was "a first and a reflection of how things are changing".

In a question and answer session with Bloomberg’s William Kennedy, Grossi was asked about the fact that the many reactors built in the 1970s were now approaching their 50th year, with some having had operational permissions extended to 60 or 70 years and was asked whether that would be safe.

Grossi replied: "The unsung hero of the fight against global warming is Long Term Operation, which is basically having, with half or even less the initial investment, a new reactor that is going to be there - you say to 70 years, I say 100, you know, it's going to be closer. We see reactors now that are closer to 80 years and are perfectly safe, having undergone very thorough refurbishing operations."

He said that the involvement of the IAEA was crucial "because what we do is work with national regulators through very intensive peer reviews to make sure that Long Term Operation is giving you a new nuclear reactor, not simply an old one which is more or less muddling through".

Asked if he thought that from a climate change point of view, countries shutting reactors were making a mistake, he said: "Well in my personal opinion, yes. This is a matter that requires a technical, scientifically-sound discussion. I think from the vantage point of the nuclear sector, we must also recognise political realities, because in politics 2 plus 2 is not 4. Sometimes, from a scientific or technical point of view, it is very difficult to accept that people are taking decisions that do not seem to square, but it happens and the challenge for us is to prove, and to show, that keeping nuclear in the equation is going to give you the energy, is going to give you the solution to your climate problem, is going to give you jobs, is going to give you opportunities - it is going to give you things that are very important for political people to get the votes they need."

During the session Grossi also restated the need for a protection zone around the nuclear power plant at Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine which, as he pointed out, is on the frontline of the war. The six reactor plant, occupied by Russian forces, currently has IAEA staff stationed there, but Grossi said there was an emerging question about future safeguard inspections, because the IAEA had different mechanisms for inspecting nuclear facilities in countries without nuclear weapons - such as Ukraine - and those with nuclear weapons - such as Russia. Efforts continue to try to establish the protection zone "in the near future", for what, he noted, was a very large site with a variety of different facilities.

Other speakers on the first full day of events at the #Atoms4Climate stage included World Association of Nuclear Operators President Mohamed Al Hammadi who said that the “new momentum” seen in the civil nuclear industry sector was being driven by the world’s need for large scale decarbonisation and energy security and the industry "must get ahead of the curve when it comes to ensuing that we have the resources and the capacity to deliver" safe, reliable and timely new capacity.

World Nuclear Association Director General Sama Bilbao y León, in a video message, said the association had represented nuclear at COP meetings for more than 20 years, and said there had been a change of attitude - a positive change - towards nuclear last year at COP26. She added: "This is now the moment for the nuclear industry to really step up - it is essential for the nuclear industry to demonstrate it has the capacity and the ambition to deliver the massive contribution to climate change mitigation that is needed if the global community is to succeed in reaching net-zero with the urgency needed."Here is the full list of events on the #Atoms4Climate stage. They are being live streamed, via the links provided. Nuclear plants could safely operate for 100 years, suggests Grossi

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Sandeepa Dhar talks about importance of Yoga for breathing pattern

IANS (Photo: Sandeepa Dhar/Instagram)

Mumbai, June 21 (IANS) Actress Sandeepa Dhar is celebrating International Yoga Day, as she opened up with a heartfelt reflection that beautifully captures her evolving relationship with Yoga.

For her, Yoga isn’t just a workout routine for her; it’s become her grounding ritual, a sacred space where mind, body, and soul align.

Talking about the same, the actress said, "Over a decade ago, I stepped onto my first mat chasing something entirely different, weight management, fitness goals, the usual suspects. Power yoga seemed like the perfect solution, intense, efficient, and results-driven. But somewhere between those early sun salutations and today, Yoga taught me something I didn’t even know I was missing. I was breathing wrong. For years, maybe most of my adult life, I was breathing wrong”.

Yoga has become more than just a means to sculpt the body for her, it has been a tool to rediscover something as fundamental as breath, and through it, presence.

She further mentioned, “It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? But in our rush-everywhere, think-about-everything world, we’ve forgotten how to truly breathe. Yoga didn’t just correct my posture or strengthen my core; it gave me back my breath. And with it, the ability to be present, to ground myself when life feels like it’s spinning too fast”.

“Yoga isn’t just about the poses we hold or the calories we burn. It’s about coming home to ourselves. It’s about finding gratitude in the simple act of breathing deeply”, she added.

Last month, the actress spoke about the ground reality of the country with regard to menstrual hygiene and gender equity. She shared that even basic hygiene is still a privilege for a large population of the country, Sandeepa urged those with the means to act in order to make things better.

Sharing her views on the importance of menstrual hygiene, the actress said, “Let’s normalize conversations around periods. Let’s support initiatives that provide sanitary products and work towards menstrual equity”. Sandeepa Dhar talks about importance of Yoga for breathing pattern | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Kiara Advani's silence speaks volumes even after 2 years of 'Satyaprem Ki Katha' release

Mumbai, (IANS) It has already been two years since "Satyaprem Ki Katha" starring Kiara Advani and Kartik Aaryan released in the cinema halls.

Commemorating the milestone, let us revisit some of Kiara's most iconic scenes from the romantic entertainer. Ditching the dramatic outbursts, Kiara relied on the quiet scenes in "Satyaprem Ki Katha" to leave a mark on the audience.

Taking the example of the confrontation scene, we could see some powerful indicators in her body language which made her performance more impactful.

The way Kiara curled in her shoulders, the slight shake in her breath, along with eyes filled with water perfectly portrayed her emotional condition.

With her eyes hiding massive pain behind them, we could also feel the weight of what’s been left unsaid.

Now, shifting our focus to some lighter moments in the movie, while her character does not speak much, a lot is expressed through her silence.

The way she glances when someone is about to touch her expressing her hesitation, makes the viewers understand what the character is feeling in that moment. A lot of the times, her eyes goes on to express what words can't.

Made under the direction of Sameer Vidwans, "Satyaprem Ki Katha" has been backed by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment in collaboration with Namah Pictures.

The film revolves around a middle-class boy from Ahmedabad, Satyaprem (Kartik) who falls in one-sided love with Katha (Kiara), unaware that she is coping with the breakup with her ex-boyfriend Tapan, who failed to understand the concept of consent.

After Katha unwillingly marries Satyaprem, they get to know each other and eventually help each other accomplish their unfinished businesses.

In addition to Kiara and Kartik, the project further stars Gajraj Rao as Narayan, Supriya Pathak as Diwali, Siddharth Randeria as Harikishan Kapadia, Anuradha Patel as Rasna Kapadia, Rajpal Yadav as Doodhiya, Shikha Talsania as Sejal, and Arjun Aneja as Tapan Manek.Released on 29 June 2023, Satyaprem Ki Katha opened to positive reviews. Kiara Advani's silence speaks volumes even after 2 years of 'Satyaprem Ki Katha' release | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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AI will turn networks into ‘product factories’, says IOH boss

Speaking at DTW in Copenhagen, Vikram Sinha, CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH), called on operators to go ‘all in’ on AI transformation

As was to be expected, the topic of AI dominated discussions on the opening day of DTW this year. Numerous operators took to the stage to exhort the technologies potential to transform the telecoms world and help telcos return to growth. Chief among these AI cheerleaders was IOH CEO Vikram Sinha, who said telcos should be embracing the new technology as much as possible.

“AI is not the metaverse – it’s real today,” said Sinha. “We have to go all in. We have to get serious. We need to see how we can make 12-15% growth the norm for telcos,” he said.

Sinha explained how IOH’s AI strategy revolved around turning the network and its wealth of data into a ‘product factory’ for consumer AI use cases.

“We want to solve customer problems and we want to be with them on that journey,” he said, adding that IOH was targeting use cases across the consumer value chain.

“AI has to be for all. It cannot be only for high end customers,” he said. “We have been working on creating a product on SMS – this would touch everyone. Similarly, you can have an [AI] personal tutor. Everyone can have a personal nurse, and farmers and have AI support. If our customers start seeing a product which is helping their daily life better, that is solving their problem, the respect for you will go up. Your ARPU will really go up.”

In-house AI capabilities

IOH has been positioning itself as an AI company for a number of years now, seeing the emerging technology as a key driver of revenue growth on their journey from telco to techco. Earlier this year, the company launched a Sovereign AI Factory, powered by Sahabat-AI, a 70-billion parameter large language model that operates in Indonesian and five additional local languages. This, IOH says, will allow GenAI services to be delivered to all Indonesians, not only those that speak English. This large language model (LLM) will form the basis of numerous IOH products, expanding on their ability to create AI use cases in-house.

With digital sovereignty of ever increasing importance, being able to create these products independently and with local partners is a growing focus.

“We have created a vertical Chief Product Officer,” said Sinha. “Telco never had a product team[…] but in three years time you’ll need to have product capabilities to make sure that you don’t outsource everything.”

But while many of AI-driven use cases are already in development, both by IOH and other telcos, few are currently commercially available at scale. For Sinha, part of the challenge lies in how telcos frame these AI use cases in discussions with customers.

“Don’t talk about POC [Proof of Concept], talk about Proof of Value,” said Sinha. “Once customers talk about value, we’ll have a flywheel effect.”

“Progress is better than perfect,” he added.

A platform for AI innovation

Speaking on stage alongside Sinha, Danish telco Nuuday’s CEO Christian Thrane took a different approach to AI use cases, noting that a telcos size and the size of its target market would impact its ability to develop AI use cases alone.

“For us, it’s a lot more about creating the platform and working with partners,” he said. “I always say to partners, we’re a small market, one of the most advanced markets globally, so come and test it out.”

Perhaps more importantly, Thrane highlighted the importance of collaboration across the telco industry, working together to create solutions that only telcos can provide.

“It’s almost impossible to think about the role of AI and not be a bit nervous at times right? I think the purpose is right there, staring in our face. It’s about stepping into it and not trying to outsmart each other as an industry […] really leaning into what can we do together quickly and to make sure that AI models rely on trusted, reliable data for the customers in a private way.”“Five years from now, if we haven’t done this right. We’re toast,” Thrane concluded.  AI will turn networks into ‘product factories’, says IOH boss

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Neymar says 2026 World Cup will be his last

BRAZIL - Neymar said that the 2026 World Cup will be his last adding he was confident that Brazil would qualify for the finals in North America.

"I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance and I will do everything I can to play in it," the 32-year-old attacker, who has not played for Brazil in more than a year, told CNN.

He also told the American news network in the interview published on Tuesday that he would not rule out reuniting with former Barcelona team-mates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at U.S. club Inter Miami.

"Obviously, playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible," Neymar said at an award ceremony in Dubai.

Brazil have struggled in South American World Cup qualifying.

After 12 of the 18 rounds, they are fifth in the 10-nation group. But the top six are guaranteed places in the World Cup and Brazil are five points ahead of Bolivia in seventh.

"I have a lot of faith in the team, in the players who are emerging, who are young," he said. "We're not in a position where we would like to be."

"I think together we can achieve something very big. We have a year, a year-and-a-half to work, to do the right things to reach the World Cup," Neymar said.

Neymar started Brazil's first four qualifying games but went off injured at half time as they lost to Uruguay in October 2023. After knee surgery he was out for a year.

He returned for his Saudi club Al Hilal with two brief appearances in October and November but injured a hamstring and has not played since. He said he is targeting the World Cup.

"I want to be there, I'm going to try to do my best, to work very hard so that I can be with the Brazilian team."

He will be 34 by the time the competition in the USA, Canada and Mexico, kicks off.

He could play in the United States before then. Al Hilal will appear in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States in June where Miami, with Messi and Suarez, will also be competing.

"They are my friends." said Neymar, who also played with Messi at Paris Saint-Germain. "We still speak to each other. It would be interesting to revive this trio."

"I'm happy in Saudi Arabia, but who knows? Football is full of surprises."When the news came out that I was leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the transfer window was closed in the United States, so I didn't have this option." Neymar says 2026 World Cup will be his last

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Nikhat Zareen hails India's bid to host 2036 Olympics, calls for SAI centres in each state

New Delhi, (IANS) After India made a formal bid to host the 2036 Olympics, two-time world champion boxer Nikhat Zareen said the bid would motivate sportspersons but called for the need to establish Sports Authority of India (SAI) centres in every state to foster overall sports development, essential for staging such a prestigious event in the country.Watch live sports online

The ambitious plan to bring the world’s largest sporting event to India has been backed by strong government support. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly expressed his intent to bring the Olympics to India in 2036.

"India hosting the 2036 Olympics will be a huge motivation for athletes. If we want to host major events like the Olympics, I believe every state should have SAI centres. Currently, there are only regional centres. If I need to train, then I have to go to places like Rohtak, Guwahati, Aurangabad, or wherever these centres are located," Nikhat told IANS.Watch live sports online

"If I have to struggle so much just to get training, imagine the challenges for young kids preparing with 2036 in mind. I might retire by 2036 (she joked), but for them, it will be difficult. Convincing their parents to send them so far away for training will be very challenging. If every state has an SAI centre with good coaches, it will benefit everyone, and we’ll be able to focus on athletes from the grassroots level," she said.

Nikhat, a Deputy Suprindent of Police (DSP) with Telangana Police, further suggested that every state should have multi-facility stadiums to help the young athletes train in better infrastructure. "Along with this, each state's capital should have a good stadium and a policy in place to support young athletes who aren't financially stable. By sponsoring their equipment from the grassroots level, providing quality coaches, and giving them access to facilities, we can give them a solid push, helping them reach the senior level and potentially make the nation proud," she added.

However, Nikhat’s hopes of winning a medal on her Olympic debut in Paris ended early after she lost to Wu Yu of China by unanimous decision in the Round of 16 of the women’s 50kg boxing event.

Reflecting on her Paris campaign, the two-time world champion and Asian Games bronze medallist said, "There was no pressure at all because I had previously won many competitions where no one expected me to win. Paris was my first Olympics, and I was unseeded. In my weight category, I had only two major competitors -- the Turkish boxer (Busenaz Cakiroglu), and the Chinese."

"I had defeated the Turkish boxer before, but I had no prior experience against the Chinese boxer, so I was clueless. I had only observed her playing but hadn’t sparred with her. Unfortunately, in Paris, I had to face the Chinese boxer in the second round itself, leading to an early exit from the competition," she further said.

"More than the loss, what saddened me was seeing the medals go to boxers I had previously defeated. It was really heartbreaking that I missed out on a medal in the Olympics despite being a two-time world champion," Nikhat added.

Speaking about how she overcame her loss at the Olympics, the boxer from Telangana said "It wasn't easy", as everyone "becomes coach when you lose" and starts giving their expert advice.

"When you win, everyone comes to congratulate you. I noticed that after Paris, only a few people reached out. It stings to see people celebrate your wins, but when you truly need support, they are missing. I’ve come to realise, though, that this is just part of life.

"More than anyone else’s expectations, it was my own that weighed on me, and it hurt that I couldn’t meet them. In the past, I’ve faced challenges, overcome them, and made strong comebacks. This time, I’ll return mentally, physically, and emotionally stronger. I’m not pressuring myself; I’m taking it slow," said the 28-year-old boxer.

Nikhat, who is currently training at Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, signed off by saying, “I don’t have a personal coach right now, but I’m not putting any pressure on myself. I’ll take my time and make a steady comebackNi khat Zareen hails India's bid to host 2036 Olympics, calls for SAI centres in each state | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Former UK PM strongly recommends permanent seat for India in UNSC

Former British Prime Minister David Cameron today joined several global leaders who are batting strongly for India getting a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He emphasized that the world needs to hear India’s perspective on key global challenges. Addressing a Summit of a private TV channel in New Delhi, Cameron said, the world has changed hugely since the institutions were set up after the Second World War. It is time to see the rise of India which will become the world’s largest economy at some stage in future. Mr. Cameron stressed the need for reform of the United Nations Security Council. Former UK PM strongly recommends permanent seat for India in UNSC

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Masaba Gupta talks about her father Sir Viv Richards’ encounter with racism

Mumbai, (IANS) Fashion designer-actress Masaba Gupta, who is known for ‘Masaba Masaba’, has spoken about how her father, the legendary cricketer, Sir Viv Richards, faced racism during the peak of his career.

Masaba feels that racism is a societal evil that will continue to affect lives until we fight against it collectively.

She spoke with Faye D'Souza, and said: “Now I know why my father felt so strongly about it (racism) for so many years. Till today, if you ask him, he'll have tears in his eyes or he'll have this rage in him, where he will answer with a lot of pride. He grew up in the worst of times. He played professional cricket at a time when the colour of your skin came in the way of your ability to move ahead in the world. It's there, everywhere. It'll keep being spoken of until we fight for it, and it's only going to happen if everybody fights for it.”

Masaba is the daughter of actress Neena Gupta and Sir Vivian Richards, the latter is a former Antiguan cricketer who represented the West Indies cricket team between 1974 and 1991. He usually came to bat at number three.

Sir Vivian Richards is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time and has been a part of the West Indies squads which won the 1975 Cricket World Cup and 1979 Cricket World Cup and finished as runners-up in the 1983 Cricket World Cup against the Kapil Dev-led team India.

Masaba also spoke about the pregnancy advice that she often gets on how to give birth to a “lighter” child.She said: "It happened to me just yesterday that somebody came up to me for some pre-natal something, telling me, ‘You must eat a rasgulla every day' because your kid has to turn out lighter than you. And then, 15 days before that, I was getting another pre-natal massage, because that's what I do, and she (her masseuse) said to me, ‘Aap na doodh liya karo (you must consume milk). Saawla nahi hona chahiye, nahi honi chahiye, whatever (your child must not turn out dusky).' It was said with so much innocence. You have no choice – what can I do? Punch my masseuse? No.” Masaba Gupta talks about her father Sir Viv Richards’ encounter with racism | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Olympics-Shooting-Bhaker hopes her Paris feat is just the start for India’s women athletes

FILE PHOTO: Paris 2024 Olympics – Shooting – 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team Bronze Medal – Chateauroux Shooting Centre, Deols, France – July 30, 2024. Manu Bhaker of India reacts. REUTERS/Amr Alfiky/File Photo

CHATEAUROUX, France (Reuters) – Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, the country’s first multi-medallist at a single Olympic Games, hopes her feat in Paris will help to unlock the potential of other women athletes in the world’s most populous nation.

“It’s a long journey, let’s keep going and let’s not settle for these two medals,” Bhaker said as she held up her bronze medals outside the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.

“Let’s hope for many more medals in this Olympics and subsequent events,” added Bhaker, who won the women’s 10-metre air pistol bronze and the same medal in the mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh to open India’s medal count in Paris.

India surpassed neighbour and powerhouse China as the world’s most populous country last year, with more than 1.43 billion people, but remains an Olympic laggard.

Shooter Abhinav Bindra won India’s first individual Olympic gold in 2008, while Neeraj Chopra’s victory in men’s javelin in Tokyo three years ago was India’s first in track and field.

Bhaker’s double success on Tuesday prompted a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and an avalanche of congratulatory messages but Bhaker is not celebrating yet as she chases a third medal in the women’s 25-metre pistol later this week.

Social media back home is abuzz with her exploits and the 22-year-old Bhaker hopes her success will have an impact.

“I don’t know what’s trending on social media but I hope a lot of parents would push their daughters to try different sports,” she said.

“My parents were so supportive of me in choosing any sport or any cultural activity, anything,” she said.

“Even today, if I say ‘I don’t want to do this, I’ll learn classical dance or something’, they’ll support that too.

“If the women of our country get that kind of support, I think we as a nation can grow. There’s a lot of scope for improvement.”

Bhaker hails from the north Indian state of Haryana, which has emerged as a hub for Olympic sport in India despite the state’s male bias and a skewed sex ratio.

The state also produced India cricketer Shafali Verma, who had to crop her hair short and masquerade as a boy in order to pursue the game, Olympics-Shooting-Bhaker hopes her Paris feat is just the start for India’s women athletes

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Rakul Preet shares her mantra of energy, good looks: 'Keep my karma clean, focus on my job'

Mumbai, (IANS) Actress Rakul Preet Singh, who is currently gearing up for the release of her upcoming Tamil vigilante action film ' Indian 2', on Tuesday conducted an 'Ask Me Anything' (AMA) session with her fans on social media, and revealed about her mantra of energy, good looks, her favourite holiday spot in India, and her favourite cricket players.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Rakul answered the fun questions of the fans. She wore an off-shoulder blue jumpsuit, while she was promoting 'Indian 2'.

During the AMA session, a fan asked the diva about her mantra of energy and good looks. Replying to the same, Rakul said: "The mantra of my energy is to keep myself away from all the negativity. I just focus on my job, my people, my life, and I am really not worried about who is thinking what, and I try to keep my karma clean."

"And I think that what keeps me positive and kind of reflects on your skin. So, I think for each one of us, if we have a clear conscience, if we are happy from within, I think that' what is going to reflect on your face," she shared.

Speaking about her favourite cricket players, Rakul said: "It has to be Virat Kohli. I think he is amazing. And also Rohit Sharma."

Rakul also revealed her favourite holiday spot in India, saying, "Goa. I just love Goa." Rakul married actor-filmmaker Jackky Bhagnani on February 21, 2024, in Goa.

On how much time she spends in the gym, the 'Doctor G' actress added: "I spend about one hour and 15 minutes maximum, which also includes my mobility, and stretching in the end."

'Indian 2' is directed by S Shankar, and is jointly produced by Lyca Productions and Red Giant Movies. The movie is a sequel to the 1996 film 'Indian', and Kamal Haasan reprises his role as Senapathy.

Apart from Rakul, it also features Siddharth, SJ Suryah, Bobby Simha, Vivek, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Gulshan Grover, Samuthirakani and Nedumudi Venu in pivotal roles.Meanwhile, she next has 'Meri Patni Ka Remake', and 'De De Pyaar De 2' in the pipeline. Rakul Preet shares her mantra of energy, good looks: 'Keep my karma clean, focus on my job' | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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'My confidant, my coach and my friend': Rohit pens special note for Dravid

New Delhi, (IANS) India skipper Rohit Sharma penned a special note for outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid, and said he is lucky to work with "absolute stalwart" of the game and happy to clinch the ICC trophy -- only thing missing from The Wall's arsenal -- under his guidance.

Dravid wrapped up his two-and-a-half year coaching stint with the Indian team through 2024 T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies. Under his coaching, India also finished runners-up in 2023 Men's ODI World Cup and 2023 World Test Championship final, apart from winning Asia Cup in the same year.

"Dear Rahul bhai, I have been trying to find the right words to properly express my feelings on this but I’m not sure I ever will so here’s my attempt," Rohit's Instagram post read.

"Since my childhood days I have looked up to you just like billions of others but I was lucky enough to get to work with you this closely. You are an absolute stalwart of this game but you left all of your accolades and achievements at the door and walked in as our coach and came on a level where we all felt comfortable enough to say just about anything to you," it further states.

The legendary cricketer took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri in November 2021. His initial term was for two years, but he was handed a six-month extension as BCCI wanted him to continue until the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.

Dravid had earlier revealed that it was Rohit, who asked him to stay with the team after his contract was set to expire after the 2023 ODI World Cup.

"That is your gift, your humility and your love for this game even after all this time. I have learnt so much from you and every memory will be cherished. My wife refers to you as my work wife and I’m lucky to get to call you that too."This was the only thing missing from your arsenal and I’m so happy that we got to achieve it together. Rahul bhai it has been an absolute privilege to get to call you my confidant, my coach and my friend," the post concluded. 'My confidant, my coach and my friend': Rohit pens special note for Dravid | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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I used to be in office at 6:20 am: Narayana Murthy

New Delhi, (IANS) After triggering a massive debate over his statement that youth should work 70 hours a week, Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy has said that he used to be in office at 6:20 a.m.

In the 3one4 Capital's podcast titled 'The Record' in October, Murthy had suggested that India’s youth must work for 70 hours every week in order to boost the country’s productivity.

Now, the 77-year-old apparently came out in support of his statement that went viral and drew mixed reactions from people.

“I used to be in office at 6:20 a.m. and leave office at 8:30 p.m. and worked six days a week. I know every nation that became prosperous did so through hard work," Murthy told The Economic Times.

"During my entire 40-plus years of professional life, I worked 70 hours a week. When we had a six-day week till 1994, I used to work at least 85 to 90 hours a week. That has not been a waste," he added.

Murthy's remark had sparked outrage on social media. While some people agreed with him, the majority were skeptical and worried about the health implications of such a demanding work schedule.

Murthy also spoke about nation-building, technology, his company Infosys and several other topics -- including his opinion on today’s youth on the podcast. Narayana Murthy I used to be in office at 6:20 am: Narayana Murthy | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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'I could not walk or even talk properly', recalls Sangram Singh, wrestler-turned-MMA fighter

New Delhi, Sangram Singh recently announced his intentions to become the first Indian male athlete to enter the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the age of 38.

The former WWP Commonwealth heavyweight champion spoke to IANS in an exclusive conversation to discuss his journey, why he took such a huge step this late in his career, what motivates him, and how he plans to dive into Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the future.

"I am just starting off. I believe UFC and MMA are sisters. I was approached by UFC as well but I believe I should start with MMA, as it is basically the same thing. Like in wrestling, there is Greco-Roman and freestyle. When it comes to representing your country, it does not matter where you do it, so surely, UFC is in my future plans as well.

"Someone was joking with me to try out cricket as well. Life is very short, so you should try to inspire at every chance you get, and I believe the best way to live is selfless living," Singh told IANS.

Despite having a great build after years of hard work and having an illustrious career that has spanned over 25 years, the former wrestling champion went on to reveal that his life has not been easy, how he motivated himself to never give up, and why he decided to make a comeback into the field of combat sports.

"I used to suffer from medical problems; I could not walk or even talk properly. The rejection I got from life was my motivation to excel. A kid who could not even stand got into wrestling. I started with mud wrestling and went on to represent my country. I got into pro wrestling and went on to become the Commonwealth heavyweight champion and the best professional wrestler in the world.

"Wrestling has been struggling in the past two years with the protest and everything going on with Brij Bhushan and to see our wrestlers Sakhi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and all going through such tough situations was a sad time for the sport. A lot of parents were against their kids entering the field, which is why I came back to fight after many years,” Singh said.

Sangram was on a six-year hiatus and recently made his comeback into wrestling when he defeated Pakistan’s Muhammad Saeed at the Dubai Pro Wrestling Championship. He aims to continue his wrestling career alongside his MMA stint.

"I remember Sushil Kumar reviving wrestling when he won the bronze medal in 2008 Olympics, and when I started, I had taken wrestling from mud to a five-star arena. When I used to go out, people started saying, 'ye to wo wrestler hai jo Big Boss me aaya'. I am not a cricketer that people will see me at the IPL, World Cup or Ranji Trophy.

"When I was in Dubai, I was approached to join the field of Mixed Martial Arts and I thought about it and knew that it was a tough sport. I decided to talk to my brother’s and sister’s kids and they told me 'Chachu who watches wrestling, we either watch soccer or MMA'. They knew all the stars. So, I decided to become the first Indian man to enter the field at this age," said Singh.

"Ritu Phogat joined MMA from wrestling and Puja Tomas as well. They are both like my younger sisters. I met them and saw that their major focus was on defense. India has a large viewership base, and MMA is a beautiful sport, so I thought if I do MMA, then it’ll be beneficial to me as well as the sport because then I could inspire the youth to do whatever they want to do. Simple living, high thinking,” he added.

The 38-year-old is full of life and is very excited to get into the ring for his MMA debut. He went on to talk about the difficulties of the sport and how he faces them with a smile.

"It’s fun when the competition is difficult. A wrestler’s grip is very strong, and if you see, the MMA champions of the world are those who did not get the chance to represent their country like Khabib (Nurmagomedov). He was not able to become a wrestler and hence got into MMA. I am not saying anyone is less, but it can only be a fun experience if there is competition. I know it’s difficult, but that’s why I am doing it; if it were easy, then anyone could have done it," he said.

"I believe that life always has two paths: risk or regret. Always choose risk, because if you do, you will never regret it. I feel that if I am able to do this, then I am doing it for all those kids who dream of playing sports or those who give up. The champion is not one who wins the gold medals, I believe it is the one who keeps on trying, and that champion lives inside all of us, be it in any field,” Singh added.

Singh further revealed that he is likely to make his MMA debut before the end of the year and is aspiring to inspire many kids through his latest venture."This year you will get to see my MMA match. Another good thing about this generation is social media. I have become a sort of a celebrity athlete, and they shower me with love, so I am very excited. I am waiting to announce the date. In the end, I believe that if even one kid gets inspired by my bout then it will be a successful outing," he concluded. 'I could not walk or even talk properly', recalls Sangram Singh, wrestler-turned-MMA fighter | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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World Bank says 80% of global population will experience slower growth than in pre-COVID decade

• Latest Global Economic Prospects report acknowledges global growth stabilising for first time in three years
• The global economy is expected to stabilise for the first time in three years in 2024—but at a level that is weak by recent historical standards, according to the World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report released on Thursday.
• Global growth is projected to hold steady at 2.6% in 2024 before edging up to an average of 2.7% in 2025-26. That is well below the 3.1% average in the decade before COVID-19. The forecast implies that over the course of 2024-26 countries that collectively account for more than 80% of the world’s population and global GDP would still be growing more slowly than they did in the decade before COVID-19.
• Overall, developing economies are projected to grow 4% on average over 2024-25, slightly slower than in 2023. Growth in low-income economies is expected to accelerate to 5% in 2024 from 3.8% in 2023. However, the forecasts for 2024 growth reflect downgrades in three out of every four low-income economies since January. In advanced economies, growth is set to remain steady at 1.5% in 2024 before rising to 1.7% in 2025.
• “Four years after the upheavals caused by the pandemic, conflicts, inflation, and monetary tightening, it appears that global economic growth is steadying,” said World Bank Group’s Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Indermit Gill. “However, growth is at lower levels than before 2020. Prospects for the world’s poorest economies are even more worrisome. They face punishing levels of debt service, constricting trade possibilities, and costly climate events. Developing economies will have to find ways to encourage private investment, reduce public debt, and improve education, health, and basic infrastructure. The poorest among them—especially the 75 countries eligible for concessional assistance from the International Development Association—will not be able to do this without international support.”
• This year, one in four developing economies is expected to remain poorer than it was on the eve of the pandemic in 2019. This proportion is twice as high for countries in fragile- and conflict-affected situations. Moreover, the income gap between developing economies and advanced economies is set to widen in nearly half of developing economies over 2020-24—the highest share since the 1990s. Per capita income in these economies—an important indicator of living standards—is expected to grow by 3.0% on average through 2026, well below the average of 3.8% in the decade before COVID-19.
• Global inflation is expected to moderate to 3.5% in 2024 and 2.9% in 2025, but the pace of decline is slower than was projected just six months ago. Many central banks, as a result, are expected to remain cautious in lowering policy interest rates. Global interest rates are likely to remain high by the standards of recent decades—averaging about 4% over 2025-26, roughly double the 2000-19 average.
• “Although food and energy prices have moderated across the world, core inflation remains relatively high—and could stay that way,” said World Bank’s Deputy Chief Economist and Prospects Group Director Ayhan Kose. “That could prompt central banks in major advanced economies to delay interest-rate cuts. An environment of ‘higher-for-longer’ rates would mean tighter global financial conditions and much weaker growth in developing economies.”
• The latest Global Economic Prospects report also features two analytical chapters of topical importance. The first outlines how public investment can be used to accelerate private investment and promote economic growth. It finds that public investment growth in developing economies has halved since the global financial crisis, dropping to an annual average of 5% in the past decade. Yet public investment can be a powerful policy lever. For developing economies with ample fiscal space and efficient government spending practices, scaling up public investment by 1% of GDP can increase the level of output by up to 1.6% over the medium term.
• The second analytical chapter explores why small states—those with a population of around 1.5 million or less—suffer chronic fiscal difficulties. Two-fifths of the 35 developing economies that are small states are at high risk of debt distress or already in it. That’s roughly twice the share for other developing economies. Comprehensive reforms are needed to address the fiscal challenges of small states. Revenues could be drawn from a more stable and secure tax base. Spending efficiency could be improved—especially in health, education, and infrastructure. Fiscal frameworks could be adopted to manage the higher frequency of natural disasters and other shocks. Targeted and coordinated global policies can also help put these countries on a more sustainable fiscal path.World Bank says 80% of global population will experience slower growth than in pre-COVID decade | Daily FT

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Olympics-Nervous is necessary for India’s boxer Nikhat Zareen

FILE PHOTO: Commonwealth Games – Boxing – Women’s Over 48kg-50kg Light Fly – Round of 16 – The NEC Hall 4, Birmingham, Britain – July 31, 2022 India’s Zareen Nikhat reacts during her round of 16 fight with Mozambique’s Helena Ismael Bagao REUTERS/Phil Noble/File Photo

NEW DELHI (Reuters) – Like most athletes making their Olympic debut in Paris, Nikhat Zareen is a bundle of nerves at the moment.

What sets her apart, however, is that the Indian boxer is not just at peace with the nervousness but even finds it necessary.

For the 25-year-old, it is a perfectly normal state of mind that she says has twice helped her become a world champion.

“Just because I am now an experienced boxer does not mean I shouldn’t be getting nervous,” Zareen told a virtual press conference arranged by the Sports of Authority of India.

“I’m both excited and nervous because people have a lot of expectations from me.”

There are also her own expectations.

Zareen has succeeded six-times world champion MC Mary Kom as the face of Indian boxing in recent years and wants to cement her stature with a medal in the women’s 50kg in Paris.

Nervousness has been a key ingredient in her success, which also includes a Commonwealth Games gold in 2022 and Asian Games bronze last year.

“It’s my thing. I get nervous before every competition,” said the feisty boxer from Telangana.

“If I don’t get nervous, my body doesn’t work the way I want it to perform in the ring. When I’m nervous, my body works well and I’m more focused.”

Her other realization is that she is usually at her best when she faces difficult opponents.

“I have noticed that I box better when I get a tough draw,” she said. “Easy draw is impossible in Olympics anyway, because only the top boxers will be competing there.

“It’s going to be a lot tougher than world championships.”

Zareen is reaping the benefit of qualifying early for her maiden Olympics.

“At the Asian Games, my first target was to qualify for the Olympics, and I was really happy to qualify so early,” she said.

“That reduced my stress. Qualifying late does not allow you to prepare the way you want to. Often there is not enough time to work on the areas you want to work on.

“After my qualification, my coaches prepared a comprehensive plan for me – which events to compete in, where to spar and with which boxers.

“Everything has gone according to that plan.”

Life has changed for the fun-loving boxer following her success in the ring but Zareen knows there is a big void in her list of accomplishments.

“I achieved my dream of becoming a world champion not once but twice, but it’s not end of the journey,” she said.

“My ultimate dream is to win an Olympic medal. Hopefully, I’ll fulfil that dream as well. Only then I can say I’ve achieved all I wanted.” Olympics-Nervous is necessary for India’s boxer Nikhat Zareen

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