Times of India

In a landmark move, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has been awarded an unprecedented compensation package of $96.5 million, underscoring the firm’s strides in artificial intelligence and cloud services. This pay structure, predominantly reliant on stock and performance incentives, ties Nadella's earnings to both shareholder returns and overall revenue, aligning executive remuneration with crucial business objectives.

Pucovski retired from professional cricket in April last year at the age of 27 after suffering 13 documented concussions during his career.

Mark your calendars: many bank branches will observe closures on Wednesday, August 26, for the Id-E-Milad and Thiruvonam festivals. Although branches will be closed, customers can still use ATMs and online services. Don’t forget that banks will also shut down for a regular holiday on Sunday, August 30, followed by Raksha Bandhan closures on August 28.

In a significant move to aid flood-affected families in Assam, the Centre is rolling out new housing assistance through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, allocating nearly five thousand crore rupees. Additionally, a further one hundred thirty-nine crore rupees will be directed towards enhancing agricultural investments within the region. This comprehensive support is designed to help residents rebuild their lives and advance sustainable farming initiatives for a more resilient future.

Salman Khan's journey in the film industry began with a humble salary of Rs 75 before he made his mark as an actor. His career took off with the film, Maine Pyar Kiya, for which he earned Rs 31,000. Since then, his films have collectively generated billions, positioning him to now demand Rs 100 crore per film and Rs 250 crore for his role in Bigg Boss.

Schools in several Indian states and Union Territories are observing a holiday on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, for Eid-e-Milad, but there is no uniform nationwide school closure order. Holiday arrangements vary according to state calendars, local orders and individual school schedules. Delhi-NCR schools may remain closed where the festival holiday applies, while Kerala also observes Thiruvonam. Uttar Pradesh observes Barawafat in applicable areas, with other states following their respective holiday notifications.

Monday’s 3-5 defeat to Argentina summed up a campaign littered with familiar flaws. There have been moments of promise in Amstelveen, but they have been overshadowed by defensive lapses, poor decision-making and an attack that has often failed to convert pressure into goals.

United States visa appointments are paused worldwide for consular officer training. This initiative supports the administration's broader immigration enforcement efforts. Immigrant visa applicants are being notified of rescheduled interviews due to this program. The government is also tightening restrictions on legal immigration and visa issuances. These actions reflect ongoing reviews and adjustments to the US visa system.

A French tourist was amazed by how widely QR codes are embraced in India for everyday purchases. From quaint roadside vendors to neighborhood shops, she noted the effortless use of digital payments, especially via UPI. This ease of transactions starkly contrasts her experiences back in France, where such practices aren't as prevalent.

Asaduddin Owaisi has openly criticized the RSS and BJP for their connections to the Manusmriti, questioning their true allegiance to the Indian Constitution adopted in 1949. He emphasized the valiant efforts of Muslim freedom fighters during the resistance against British colonialism and pointed out VD Savarkar's letters to the British while imprisoned. The ongoing discourse regarding Manusmriti's relevance and constitutional principles is growing more fervent by the day.

Six people died and several others were injured in a bus accident. A private travel bus collided with a moving truck near Durgapuram stage. The bus was carrying forty-three passengers from Hyderabad to Vijayawada early Wednesday. Injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for immediate medical attention. Police have initiated an investigation to determine the precise cause of this tragic collision.

The US military conducted a strike on a boat in the Caribbean Sea. This operation resulted in the deaths of four individuals suspected of drug trafficking. Another strike in the eastern Pacific Ocean killed two people accused of similar activities. These recent attacks bring the total killed in such operations to at least 227. Human rights groups have criticized these actions as unlawful extrajudicial killings.

Mumbai's auto and cab drivers are learning Marathi due to a new state rule. Some drivers are using basic Marathi phrases to refuse passengers for various reasons. The government has established training centers and a helpline for drivers facing issues. Drivers failing tests receive a notice and a suspension period for language acquisition. Passengers hope for more ride acceptances and fewer excuses from drivers.

The year 2026 has been particularly memorable for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He ended the IPL season as Rajasthan Royals' highest run-scorer with 776 runs. He then produced another explosive performance, smashing 94 off 29 balls against Sri Lanka 'A' in the List A tri-series final in Colombo. He made his senior India debut against England in July and followed it up with an impressive tour of Zimbabwe. Sooryavanshi finished the series with 151 runs, the most by any batter, and was named Player of the Series. He has scored 193 runs in six T20I innings at a strike rate of 189.21.

Ishan Kishan has played 32 ODIs and 55 T20Is for India, apart from 134 IPL matches. His last of two Test appearances came in July 2023. Despite his limited opportunities in Test cricket, his love for the red-ball format remains strong.

Yash's new film 'Toxic' has opened to divided audience reactions after early screenings. Viewers praised the movie's technical presentation and Yash's strong screen presence. However, many criticized the screenplay and narrative substance of the action drama. Some netizens noted similarities between Yash's character and his KGF role. Despite mixed reviews, the film recorded strong advance booking figures.