Times of India

Rohit Sharma, despite a recent slump in form and a nagging knee injury, was benched for Mumbai Indians' match against Chennai Super Kings, potentially to be used as an Impact Substitute. After being felicitated for his 18th IPL season, Rohit's role is crucial for MI's comeback, especially with their current position outside the top four.

A 21-year-old dancer, Shanu Khan, tragically died during a 'mehendi' ceremony in Darbhanga, Bihar, after being shot amidst celebratory firing. Khan and her troupe were forced to perform at gunpoint before the fatal incident. Police have filed a case against Ram Vinay Singh, who hired the group, and his family, all of whom have fled.

Former Karnataka DGP and IGP, Om Prakash, was found murdered at his Bengaluru residence on Sunday evening. Police Commissioner B Dayananda confirmed the death, stating Prakash was discovered in a pool of blood. His wife is the primary suspect, with initial reports suggesting stab wounds.

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 73 against Punjab Kings propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a comfortable seven-wicket victory. Kohli surpassed David Warner to claim the record for most fifty-plus scores in IPL history, reaching his 67th. Devdutt Padikkal's explosive 61 complemented Kohli's anchor innings, while disciplined bowling from Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma restricted Punjab Kings to a manageable total.

In his Easter message, Donald Trump criticized the 'Radical Left Lunatics,' 'weak' judges, and 'sleepy' Joe Biden. He accused the left of endangering the country by supporting criminals and slammed Biden's open border policy as a calamitous act. Trump also reiterated claims of a rigged 2020 election, wishing a sarcastic 'Happy Easter' to his political adversaries.

Shah Rukh Khan's Mannat undergoes renovation, drawing fans. Rohit Shetty revealed Deepika Padukone's pregnancy during 'Singham Again' filming. Shaheen Bhatt's Instagram post sparked relationship rumors with Ishaan Mehra. Vikas Khanna defended Gauri Khan's restaurant against paneer allegations. Khushboo Patani rescued an abandoned baby girl, earning widespread praise for her courageous act in Bareilly.

A Gurdwara in Vancouver was vandalized with pro-Khalistan graffiti, prompting an investigation by authorities. The Khalsa Diwan Society attributed the act to Sikh separatists, denouncing it as an attempt to sow division within the Canadian Sikh community. This incident follows a series of vandalisms targeting religious structures in Canada, including Hindu temples, raising concerns about rising extremism.

RJ Mahvash's enthusiastic applause for Devdutt Padikkal's six off Yuzvendra Chahal during an RCB innings has ignited social media. This reaction, captured on camera, adds fuel to the ongoing speculation about Mahvash and Chahal's relationship, especially considering her frequent support for Punjab Kings.

Two South African cheetahs, Prabhash and Pavak, were released into Madhya Pradesh's Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday. The six-year-old males were originally translocated to Kuno National Park in February 2023. This relocation is part of Prime Minister Modi's initiative to reintroduce cheetahs to Asia. Kuno National Park currently houses 24 cheetahs, including 14 India-born cubs.

During an IPL match, Preity Zinta, co-owner of Punjab Kings, was seen in an engaging conversation with BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, sparking social media buzz. While their discussion added intrigue off the field, the Punjab Kings struggled on the pitch, facing a batting collapse despite a promising start, ultimately managing only 157 for six.

Virender Sehwag has criticised Glenn Maxwell and Liam Livingstone for their lacklustre performances in IPL 2024, suggesting they lack the hunger to contribute meaningfully. Maxwell's poor batting form and Livingstone's inconsistency haven't justified their high price tags. Sehwag questions their commitment, implying they treat the IPL as a mere holiday, failing to deliver the expected impact for their respective teams.

Nasa's Perseverance rover discovered a skull-shaped rock, dubbed "Skull Hill," in Mars' Jezero Crater, standing out against the lighter terrain. Chemical analysis ruled out meteorite composition, suggesting it might be an igneous rock transported by natural forces. Further tests are planned to determine its origin and age, leveraging the rover's analytical capabilities.

Arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari is contesting the Enforcement Directorate's attempt to label him a "fugitive" in a black money case, arguing his UK stay is legal following a London court's denial of his extradition. The UK court cited concerns about his safety in Tihar jail and potential human rights violations.

Russia and Ukraine trade accusations of truce violations during the Easter holiday. Despite a ceasefire announcement by Putin, both sides claim attacks. Zelensky reports increased shelling and drone use by Russia. Russia alleges repelled Ukrainian assaults and civilian casualties. Previous ceasefire attempts failed. Doubts linger about Russia's commitment to peace. Zelensky proposes extending the truce, but skepticism remains.

India has deployed MiG-29 and Jaguar fighter jets for the 'Desert Flag' exercise in the UAE, showcasing its commitment to strengthening defense ties with friendly nations. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and exchange operational knowledge with air forces from the US, UK, and other countries. This participation underscores India's focus on military cooperation and defense-industrial collaboration in the region.

Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane has ignited political speculation by asking Uddhav Thackeray if he took "his wife Rashmi Thackeray's permission" for a potential alliance with MNS chief Raj Thackeray. This comes amid hints from both Thackeray cousins about a possible reunion after 20 years, prioritising Maharashtra's interests. While Sanjay Raut acknowledges ongoing "emotional talks."

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized social unity, advocating for shared resources and values to build a strong Hindu society. He urged members to engage with all communities to foster harmony. Meanwhile, Congress criticized the RSS and BJP, accusing them of dividing society and conspiring against marginalized groups through legislation like the Waqf Amendment Act.

Pakistani Hindu state minister Kheal Das Kohistani faced an attack in Sindh due to protests against federal canal projects, which are perceived as a threat to the province's water share. Demonstrators targeted his motorcade with tomatoes and potatoes, prompting swift condemnation from federal and provincial authorities.

Mohammad Azharuddin plans to challenge the HCA Ombudsman's order in Telangana High Court, which directs the removal of his name from a stadium stand. He alleges the order is invalid, claiming the ombudsman's tenure had expired. Azharuddin accuses the current HCA administration of targeting him for opposing corruption and disrespecting players, while also refuting claims of removing VVS Laxman's name.