Big Shock for TVK chief Vijay: Amazon Prime Cancels “Jana Nayakudu” OTT Deal
Samyuktha Menon Stuns in Pink Ethnic Look
Actress Samyuktha Menon recently grabbed attention on social media after sharing a series of stunning pictures that quickly went viral among her fans. In the photos, the actress is seen wearing a vibrant pink ethnic outfit that perfectly blends traditional elegance with a modern touch.
The sleeveless top features intricate embroidery around the neckline along with delicate golden motifs near the hemline, giving the outfit a festive and graceful appeal. She paired the top with wide, flowy palazzo pants in a soft pink shade, creating a stylish yet comfortable look that stands out for its simplicity and charm.
Samyuktha kept her styling minimal and classy, allowing the outfit to remain the highlight. She accessorized the look with statement earrings and a matching necklace that beautifully complemented the embroidery on her attire. Her makeup was subtle, enhancing her natural glow and sharp features, while her hair was styled in soft waves that fell naturally around her shoulders. With confident poses and elegant expressions, she carried the look effortlessly, making the photos both stylish and eye-catching.
On the work front, Samyuktha currently has a busy schedule with several projects in hand. Her next release, Swayambhu, is scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on April 10. In addition, she is also working on multiple upcoming films including Benz, Ram, Mharagni, and Slum Dog: 33 Temple Road. With such a strong lineup, fans can expect to see her frequently on the big screen in the coming months, making the next phase of her career particularly exciting.
Trump Claims US Victory in Iran Conflict
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that the United States had already secured victory in its ongoing conflict with Iran. Speaking at a rally in Hebron, Kentucky, he asserted that the outcome had been effectively decided within hours of the first military strikes. “You never like to say too early you won. We won,” Trump told supporters. “In the first hour, it was over.” He added that while the campaign had tilted in Washington’s favor early on, American forces would remain deployed until all objectives were achieved. “We don’t want to leave early, do we? We’ve got to finish the job,” he said.
Trump claimed the US military had delivered a decisive blow to Iran’s naval capabilities, stating that 58 Iranian naval ships had been destroyed. He also revealed the campaign’s name, “Operation Epic Fury,” and explained how it was chosen. “They gave me like 20 names, and I was falling asleep. I didn’t like any of them. Then I saw ‘Epic Fury.’ I said, ‘I like that name.’ Is that a great name? Well, it’s only good if you win, and we’ve won,” he said.
The conflict, now entering its second week, has involved the United States, Israel, and Iran, following large-scale strikes on Iran’s military installations and nuclear program. Trump has previously suggested that the military campaign has significantly degraded Iran’s infrastructure, claiming there was “practically nothing left to target.”
The war has also affected global oil markets. In a separate interview with WKRC-TV in Cincinnati, Trump indicated that the administration could release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to stabilize prices. “We’ll reduce it a little bit, and that brings the prices down. I filled it up once, and I’ll fill it up again,” he said, predicting that energy prices would soon stabilize.
While in Ohio, Trump commented on the effect of US strikes on Iran’s leadership. “We knocked out twice their leadership,” he said, adding that a new group of leaders was now emerging in Tehran. “Let’s see what happens to them,” he remarked.
US War on Iran Costs $11.3 Billion in First Six Days
Officials from President Donald Trump’s administration estimated during a congressional briefing this week that the first six days of the war on Iran cost the United States at least $11.3 billion. The figure was disclosed in a closed-door briefing for senators, according to a Reuters report citing a source familiar with the matter. Lawmakers are seeking more detailed information about both the financial and strategic outlook of the ongoing campaign.
The conflict, which began on February 28 with US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, has resulted in approximately 2,000 deaths, mostly among Iranians and Lebanese. The war has spread into Lebanon and contributed to global energy market disruptions and transport instability. Despite these costs, the administration has not publicly estimated the full duration or total cost of the conflict.
US officials told Congress that $5.6 billion worth of munitions were used in the first two days alone. Lawmakers have raised concerns about the rapid depletion of military stockpiles, especially as the defense industry was already struggling to meet demand before the conflict. Congressional approval is expected to be sought for additional funding as the war continues. Some officials suggest the upcoming funding request could reach $50 billion, though others believe this may be a conservative estimate.
During a trip to Kentucky, Trump commented that the US had already “won” the war but added that the country would “stay in the fight to finish the job.” He made these remarks after meetings with seven defense contractors as the Pentagon worked to replenish critical supplies.
Democratic lawmakers are demanding public testimony under oath from Trump administration officials regarding the president’s objectives and the anticipated duration of the conflict. Congress also seeks clarification on long-term plans for Iran once hostilities cease. With no comprehensive public assessment yet on the war’s total cost or expected timeline, both operational and fiscal aspects of the campaign continue to draw scrutiny and debate.
Explosive Attacks Target Tankers in Gulf Near Iraq, 1 Dead
Two fuel tankers, the Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and the Malta-flagged Zefyros, were attacked by explosive-laden boats in Gulf waters near Iraq on Wednesday night. Both vessels, loaded in Iraq, caught fire, disrupting shipping operations in the area. Reports confirm that one crew member was killed, while rescue operations continue for others reported missing. A port security official confirmed the recovery of a foreign crew member’s body, though it is not yet known which ship the deceased belonged to. The remaining crew of Zefyros were safely evacuated to Oman.
Safesea Vishnu is commercially operated by Safesea Transport Group and Safesea Group in the United States, while Zefyros is owned by Zefyros Trading SA, commercially operated by UK-based Cygnus Tankers Limited, and beneficially owned by the George & Vassilis Michael family group. Shipping through the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about a fifth of global oil, has slowed since US and Israeli strikes in Iran began on February 28. At least 16 ships have been attacked since the escalation, pushing oil prices to their highest levels since 2022. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned that any vessel passing through the Strait of Hormuz could be targeted. The US Navy has repeatedly declined requests from the shipping industry for naval escorts, citing high risks, although former US President Donald Trump stated Washington is ready to provide protection if Iran continues to obstruct the strait.
On the same day, the Thai-flagged Mayuree Naree was struck while transiting the strait. Precious Shipping, the Thai-listed operator, reported that two projectiles of unknown origin caused fire and engine room damage. Three crew members are missing and believed trapped in the engine room, while the remaining 20 crew were safely evacuated to Oman. Iran’s Guards claimed responsibility, indicating direct engagement, marking a notable escalation from previous missile and drone attacks.
Additionally, minor damage was reported to the Japan-flagged ONE Majesty and the Marshall Islands-flagged Star Gwyneth from projectiles northwest of Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, respectively. Both crews were unharmed, and investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
India Plans $11 Billion Fund to Boost Semiconductor Industry
India is intensifying its efforts in the semiconductor sector by planning a new $11 billion fund to support growth in chip manufacturing, technology development, and the local supply chain, according to a Bloomberg report. Semiconductors are critical for powering devices like smartphones, laptops, cars, defence systems, and AI servers. While the plans are still under discussion, the government aims to position India as a major player in the global chip industry.
This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to accelerate India’s chip-making capabilities and is supported by Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, who aims to make India a global semiconductor hub by 2030. India hopes to leverage its engineering talent, design expertise, and government incentives to attract chipmakers. For example, Apple now assembles about 25% of its iPhones in India, highlighting the country’s potential as a manufacturing hub.
The government plans to expand its existing $10 billion chip incentive program, launched in 2021, which offered to cover up to 50% of the costs for semiconductor manufacturing facilities. This program has already attracted major companies like Micron Technology and Foxconn Technology Group, and encouraged the Tata Group to build a semiconductor factory in Gujarat. The new fund is expected to further boost domestic manufacturing, increase exports, and build a robust industrial ecosystem in India.
Google Acquires AI Security Platform Wiz for $32 Billion
Google has acquired the cloud and AI security platform Wiz in a deal reportedly worth $32 billion. Wiz will join Google Cloud while continuing to secure customers across all cloud environments. The acquisition comes after Wiz surpassed $1 billion in annual recurring revenue in 2025.
Google stated that the acquisition will strengthen its cloud security offerings, particularly in multicloud environments, helping organizations build faster and more securely across cloud and AI platforms. With the rise of AI, attackers are using technology with greater speed and sophistication, and Google sees Wiz as a way to stay ahead.
According to Google, the partnership with Wiz will provide a unified security platform to improve detection, prevention, and response to security threats. It will also help detect emerging threats targeting AI models, protect AI systems, and leverage AI to assist security teams in threat hunting.
Wiz will continue to operate across multiple cloud platforms, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud, and Google Cloud Platform, ensuring multicloud support for enterprise customers.
Reports suggest that Google first approached Wiz in 2024 with a $23 billion offer, which Wiz declined. Talks resumed in early 2025, culminating in a $32 billion all-cash deal, $9 billion higher than the original offer.
Indian Professional Stranded Abroad Due to US Visa Delays
A social media post has highlighted the challenges some foreign professionals face when travelling outside the United States on work visas. The post, shared on Reddit, detailed the situation of an Indian professional who returned to India due to a family emergency but is now unable to go back to the US because she cannot secure a visa appointment.
What was intended to be a brief visit has turned into an uncertain wait, as she must obtain a visa interview slot before re-entering the country. The delay has caused both emotional and financial stress, with much of her life—including her job, home, and financial obligations—still based in the US. Mortgage payments, loan repayments, and other bills continue even while she is stuck abroad.
The post explained that the uncertainty has forced her to consider difficult decisions, including the potential sale of her house if she cannot return soon. The Reddit user also appealed for advice, asking if anyone had faced similar issues with visa appointments or could offer guidance to help her navigate the situation.
Many foreign professionals encounter such problems when travel plans intersect with immigration procedures. Workers on employment visas require a valid visa stamp to return to the US, which typically involves securing an interview at a US consulate. Limited appointment availability and processing delays at several consulates have created significant uncertainty for applicants.
F-1 Visa Approvals for Indian Students Drop 69% in 2025
If you are planning to study in the United States in 2026, recent trends suggest you may need to reconsider your plans. Newly released data from the US Department of State shows a sharp decline in F-1 visas granted to Indian students during June and July 2025, with only 12,776 approvals—a 69% drop compared to the same period in 2024, when 41,336 visas were issued. These months are traditionally the busiest for student visa processing, just ahead of the Fall semester starting in August or September.
Monthly figures reveal how quickly approvals fell. In June 2025, 10,695 visas were granted, dropping dramatically to 2,081 in July and 2,389 in August. By comparison, June 2024 alone saw 26,731 visas, and June 2023 recorded 40,224. The F-1 visa allows international students to pursue full-time education at accredited US institutions and participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, which permits work in the US for up to three years in STEM fields.
This decline follows several years of strong growth after the Covid-19 pandemic. Approvals for Indian students rose from 40,194 in 2021 to 62,229 in 2022, reaching a high of 72,027 in 2023 before easing to 41,336 in 2024. The steep drop in 2025 now signals one of the sharpest slowdowns in recent years. The downward trend had already begun earlier in 2025, as consulates issued only 9,906 F-1 visas to Indian students between March and May, a 27% decline from the previous year and the lowest for those months since the pandemic. By the time the summer visa season arrived, the slowdown had intensified significantly.
The fall in visa approvals coincided with a temporary pause in student visa interviews in late May 2025, which resumed on June 18. According to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the pause was introduced to prepare for expanded screening procedures, including greater scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity. Applicants for F, M, and J visas were instructed to set their social media accounts to public and provide all usernames used over the previous five years.
Chinese students also experienced a decline during the same months, though the reduction was smaller. Between June and July 2025, 17,025 visas were issued to Chinese students, representing a 56% drop compared with 2024. The sharp reduction in student visas highlights the increasing challenges for Indian students planning to study in the United States in 2026.
Rashmika Mandanna Speaks Out Against Online Harassment
Actress Rashmika Mandanna, who was previously engaged to Kannada star Rakshit Shetty nearly eight years ago, later called off the engagement. Since then, she has risen to pan-Indian fame with blockbuster hits like Pushpa: The Rise in Telugu and Animal and Chhaava in Bollywood.
Recently, Rashmika tied the knot with Telugu star Vijay Deverakonda in a colorful ceremony in Udaipur, followed by a star-studded reception in Hyderabad, attended by top actors and even Karnataka Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar.
However, she has recently faced online harassment allegedly from certain Kannada groups linked to Rakshit Shetty and his associates. Rashmika believes this group is behind the malicious campaign targeting her over the past few weeks.
The latest controversy erupted after an old audio clip, allegedly involving her mother, went viral. In response, Rashmika posted an emotional note condemning the circulation of the private audio. She said, “For eight years, I chose silence while attacks were restricted to me. Today, as others are being dragged into this, I cannot remain silent any longer. How far can people go dragging my family and innocent people into discomfort?”
Rashmika emphasized that while she has faced years of misinformation and targeted attacks, she had maintained silence—until this incident forced her to speak up and defend her family and personal life.
Collar Ey Etthara: Pawan Kalyan’s Mass Magic in Ustaad Bhagat Singh
When a mass number lands from Power Star Pawan Kalyan, expectations naturally soar—and Collar Ey Etthara from Ustaad Bhagat Singh does not disappoint. The song perfectly showcases PK’s unmatched charisma.
Music director Devi Sri Prasad powers the track with thundering percussions, pulsating beats, and an addictive mass hookline that amplifies Pawan’s screen presence. Penned by Kasarla Shyam, the lyrics elevate the hero, mirroring Pawan Kalyan’s towering persona and swagger-filled style. Ram Miriyala adds intensity with his textured, unfiltered vocal delivery.
Choreographer Dinesh Kumar turns the visuals into a spectacle with explosive dance moves and classic PK-style steps. The viral hook step combines attitude with simplicity, making it instantly fan-friendly. Massive synchronized sets, hundreds of background dancers, and vibrant backdrops enhance the grandeur, while Pawan’s effortless style and signature grace dominate every frame.
Director Harish Shankar, known for bringing out PK’s electrifying energy, ensures the dance sequences shine, blending nostalgia with fresh mass swag, making Collar Ey Etthara an unforgettable cinematic experience for fans.
Adivi Sesh’s Dacoit Set for April 10 Release
Actor Adivi Sesh, known for his unique films and consistent hits, is all set to thrill audiences again with his upcoming project Dacoit, directed by Shaneil Deo. The shoot has been completed, and the film is scheduled for release on April 10th.
Sesh clarified that no AI or special technology was used for the younger portions of the love story between him and Mrunal Thakur, which appear in a brief five-minute flashback. “The story focuses on the present—two characters navigating love amidst guns and bullets. The past carries a pure feeling, but the thrill comes from how that innocence turns violent and intense in the present,” he explained.
He also emphasized Mrunal Thakur’s importance in the film: “Dacoit is a two-hero film. Mrunal is the other hero. Both the love story and the action sequences are equally exciting.”
Sesh revealed that massive sets were built for the film, with producer Supriya Yarlagadda supporting the project with a strong vision. “Dacoit is going to be a sure-shot hit. Technically, it’s going to be outstanding,” he added. He also confirmed that Bheems Ceciroleo could not compose the background score due to scheduling conflicts.
Vishweshwar Reddy Surprised by Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Strategy Consultant’ Tag
Bharatiya Janata Party MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy sparked discussion on social media after expressing surprise over the profession listed for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the official “Who’s Who” publication of the Lok Sabha.
The incident occurred during a break in the ongoing Lok Sabha session when several MPs, including Raghunandan Rao, visited the Parliament cafeteria for tea. During the break, Vishweshwar Reddy browsed through the “Who’s Who” book distributed by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, which contains personal and professional details of Members of Parliament.
The publication includes information such as educational qualifications, professional background and personal interests of MPs. While reviewing the profiles, Vishweshwar Reddy noticed that Rahul Gandhi’s profession was listed as “Strategy Consultant.”
He later shared the observation on social media, pointing out that his own profession was listed as “Engineer,” which he said accurately reflected his professional background.
According to parliamentary records, Rahul Gandhi had worked in management consulting abroad before entering active politics, which explains the description mentioned in the Lok Sabha documentation. Vishweshwar Reddy also quoted from the book in his social media post, noting that the publication carries details about MPs’ backgrounds, interests and professions.
The “Who’s Who” book of the Lok Sabha is compiled using information submitted by the MPs themselves, and the profession mentioned generally reflects their career or expertise before entering politics.
His post highlighting the detail quickly went viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from political observers and netizens, with many debating the relevance of the designation in the parliamentary record.