#ahmedabad

Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders: KKR Seek First Win in IPL 2026 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face a critical challenge as they prepare to take on Gujarat Titans (GT) in a crucial IPL 2026 match at Ahmedabad. The game marks a pivotal moment for KKR, who have struggled to find form this season and are desperate for their first victory. GT, on the other hand, enter the contest in confident form, having already secured a hat-trick of wins and positioning themselves strongly in the race for the top four. The match carries significant implications for KKR, as a loss could push them into a do-or-die scenario in the tournament. KKR’s batting woes have been a major concern throughout the season. The team’s reliance on Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been evident, with their partnership run rate ranking among the lowest for any pair that has faced at least 30 balls together since the start of IPL 2025. This inefficiency has hampered their ability to accumulate runs consistently, leaving them vulnerable to early collapses. Analysts suggest that addressing this issue is KKR’s most pressing need, as their struggles with the bat have overshadowed their strong bowling attack. The situation for KKR has deteriorated significantly compared to their dominant 2024 campaign, when they won the IPL with one of the most balanced squads in the tournament’s history. This season, injuries to key fast bowlers have disrupted their plans, and despite these setbacks, the team still has the potential to turn things around with a few standout performances. Players like Finn Allen, Cam Green, or Rovman Powell could provide the spark needed to revive their fortunes. However, the absence of key contributors like Matheesha Pathirana, who is unavailable due to logistical reasons, further complicates their prospects.#ahmedabad #ipl_2026 #kolkata_knight_riders #gujarat_titans #ajinkya_rahane

Will Banks Remain Closed on April 3, Good Friday 2026 in Your City? Check Holiday List Banks across India will remain closed on April 3, 2026, which falls on Good Friday, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar. This date, observed as part of the Paschal Triduum in Christian traditions, marks the solemn commemoration of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death at Calvary. The closure applies to 28 cities, including major metropolitan areas such as Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi. However, bank branches in other regions of the country will remain operational on April 3. Customers are advised to check the RBI’s official list of bank holidays for their specific city, as closures vary by location. The RBI’s holiday calendar for April 2026 includes additional days when banks will be closed, such as Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. These dates are part of the broader schedule for regional festivals and observances, including Ambedkar Jayanti, Baisakhi, Bihu, Tamil New Year, and other state-specific celebrations. The closure on Good Friday is distinct from other holidays in April, which include April 1 (annual account closing in most states), April 11 (second Saturday), April 14 (Ambedkar Jayanti, Baisakhi, Bihu, Tamil New Year), April 15–16 (regional New Year festivals), April 20 (Basava Jayanti and Akshaya Tritiya in Karnataka), April 21 (Garia Puja in Tripura), and April 25 (fourth Saturday). Sundays on April 5, 12, 19, and 26 are also marked as non-operational days. Despite the physical branch closures, customers can continue using ATMs, internet banking platforms, mobile apps, and UPI services without interruption.#delhi #bengaluru #chennai #ahmedabad #reserve_bank_of_india

Wealth First Portfolio Managers Secures Sebi Approval to Launch Mutual Fund Business Wealth First Portfolio Managers has received regulatory clearance from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to commence mutual fund operations. The company will establish Lakshya Asset Management Company (Lakshya AMC) as its new asset management entity, which will be headquartered in Ahmedabad. This marks a significant milestone in the firm’s strategy to develop an innovation-driven asset management platform in India. The new AMC will be sponsored by Wealth First Portfolio Managers, a publicly listed wealth management firm traded on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Lakshya AMC will be the first asset management company to be based in Ahmedabad, signaling a shift in the financial sector’s focus beyond traditional metropolitan hubs. The company plans to introduce a range of differentiated investment products tailored to meet the evolving needs of Indian investors. Key members of the founding team from Benchmark Asset Management, pioneers of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in India, have joined Lakshya AMC. These include Sanjiv Shah, Rajan Mehta, and Sanjay Gaitonde, who are recognized for their contributions to the ETF market. “We aim to identify gaps in the investment landscape and create products that effectively address those needs,” said Ashish Shah, Managing Director of Wealth First Portfolio Managers. “Our goal is to deliver meaningful value to investors through innovative offerings.” The press release noted that further details about product launches and timelines will be shared in due course.#ahmedabad #securities_and_exchange_board_of_india #lakshya_amc #wealth_first_portfolio_managers #benchmark_asset_management

Lakshya Asset Management Company (Lakshya AMC) has secured approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch its mutual fund business, marking a key step in its goal to establish an innovation-driven asset management platform in India. The new AMC is backed by Wealth First Portfolio Managers Ltd., a publicly listed wealth management firm on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which has a strong presence across the country. Lakshya AMC has also brought on board key members of the founding team from Benchmark Asset Management Company — Mr. Sanjiv Shah, Mr. Rajan Mehta, and Mr. Sanjay Gaitonde — who are recognized as pioneers in the development of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in India. These individuals were instrumental in introducing several groundbreaking products, including India’s first ETF, Nifty BeES; the country’s first Gold ETF, Gold BeES (which was also the world’s first Gold ETF to be filed with regulators); and the world’s first money market ETF, Liquid BeES. Their return to the industry signifies a strategic move to leverage their expertise in creating innovative investment solutions. Benchmark AMC, founded in 2001, was the first mutual fund in India to focus exclusively on passive and quantitative investment strategies, which have since become one of the fastest-growing segments in the financial industry. Its product lineup was later acquired by Nippon Life India Asset Management from Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Lakshya AMC’s leadership team brings a wealth of experience in shaping the Indian mutual fund landscape.#ahmedabad #securities_and_exchange_board_of_india #lakshya_amc #wealth_first_portfolio_managers_ltd #benchmark_asset_management_company

AMC Fines Beekay Bakers on CG Road After Insects Found in Nankhatai Ahmedabad: The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has fined Beekay Bakers ₹25,000 on CG Road after a customer reported finding insects in nankhatai (cookies) purchased from the shop. Following the complaint, AMC health department officials inspected the bakery’s premises and identified several hygiene violations. The civic body issued a notice to the establishment and imposed the penalty. Food samples, including nankhatai, coconut macaroons, and almond coconut biscuits, were collected from the bakery and sent for laboratory testing. During the inspection, officials noted multiple lapses in food safety protocols, which led to the fine. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about hygiene standards in local food businesses. The AMC’s action follows a broader food safety drive conducted across the city between March 23 and March 26. During this campaign, 229 food establishments were inspected, resulting in 85 notices being issued to operators violating health and safety regulations. As part of the drive, 64 Total Plate Count (TPC) tests were conducted to assess food quality. Authorities collected 127 food samples for analysis, covering a range of items such as sugarcane juice, milk and dairy products, bakery goods, pani puri and masala items, namkeen, gram flour and wheat flour, edible oils, spices, and other food products. The testing aimed to ensure compliance with hygiene standards and prevent the sale of contaminated or substandard food. The campaign also led to the seizure and destruction of 144 kg of inedible food items and 138 litres of liquids deemed unfit for consumption. A total penalty of ₹1.78 lakh was collected from violators during the drive.#ahmedabad #amc #beekay_bakers #nankhatai #cg_road

Bank Holidays 2026: Banks To Be Closed On March 26th, March 27th, March 28th, March 29th Banks across India will be closed for four consecutive days starting March 26th and ending March 29th due to the observance of Ram Navami, a significant Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama. This holiday schedule includes both urban and rural branches, with closures extending to regional, local, and foreign banks. The fourth Saturday of the month, March 28th, is also designated as a holiday under Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines. The holiday period begins on March 26th, with banks in cities such as Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Belapur, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Jaipur, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Shimla closing for the festival. On March 27th, additional cities including Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok, Hyderabad, Patna, Ranchi, and Vijayawada will observe the holiday. Ram Navami, observed on the ninth day of the Hindu month of Chaitra (typically in March or April), marks the birth of Lord Rama, a revered deity in Hindu tradition. The festival is also the final day of the spring Navratri celebrations, with elaborate rituals and processions, particularly in Ayodhya, considered his birthplace. March 28th, the fourth Saturday of the month, is a mandatory closure for all scheduled banks, including public, private, and cooperative institutions. This follows RBI directives since September 2015, which mandate that banks remain closed on second and fourth Saturdays. Payment systems such as RTGS, NEFT, and cheque clearing services are suspended on these days, operating only on working Saturdays. If a month has five Saturdays, the fifth is treated as a working day. March 29th falls on a Sunday, which is already a non-working day for banks.#ahmedabad #reserve_bank_of_india #bhopal #chandigarh #ram_navami

Fuel Frenzy in Gujarat: Thousands Rush to Petrol Pumps Amid Shortage Rumors Thousands of motorists across Gujarat scrambled to petrol pumps on Monday evening, creating chaotic scenes with long queues, traffic jams, and heightened tensions. The rush was fueled by rumors of a fuel shortage, though officials and dealers clarified there was no actual scarcity. The situation unfolded in major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, and Vadodara, with panic buying and temporary rationing measures at several stations. Dealers and government authorities emphasized that the state had sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel, urging citizens to avoid panic. "There is no shortage of fuel," stated a dealer, adding that the situation was a result of operational changes and supply chain adjustments rather than an actual crisis. The Gujarat government reiterated its commitment to maintaining adequate fuel reserves, assuring the public that the state was well-prepared to meet demand. The disruption stemmed from recent shifts in fuel distribution practices. Oil companies had discontinued the previous five-day revolving credit system, forcing dealers to maintain only three days of stock. This change, combined with missed advance payments over the weekend, led to gaps in supply. "Our last stock arrived on Friday, and by Monday morning, we ran out before fresh deliveries arrived," said Sanjay Dantani, a pump manager in Bodakdev. Similar issues were reported at stations near SG Highway, where missed payments left some pumps without supplies, exacerbating the situation. The impact was widespread, with some stations imposing temporary caps on fuel sales. For example, a Rs 200 limit was set for two-wheelers at a pump on SP Ring Road. Crowds grew unruly as motorists attempted to bypass queues, prompting staff to use ropes and barricades to manage the flow.#ahmedabad #vadodara #gujarat #surat #rajkot

Duravit India Hosts Blood Donation Drive in Ahmedabad Under CSR Initiative Duravit India, in collaboration with Sanjivani Blood Bank and the community partner Trust – Jagvallabh Murtipujak Jain Sewa Samaj, organized a blood donation drive in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The event, held near the company’s registered office, aimed to contribute to community health and strengthen social bonds. Over 500 individuals, including employees and associates, participated by voluntarily donating blood, highlighting a strong sense of social responsibility and collective action. The initiative was led by Sahyog Bharti Pandita, Managing Director of Duravit India & SAARC, who emphasized the company’s commitment to health and education while respecting India’s heritage and community well-being. Pandita stated, “At Duravit, responsibility does not end with business. Through our CSR initiatives, we are committed to strengthening health and education while also respecting and preserving India’s rich heritage and the well-being of the communities we operate in. A single drop of donated blood can become a lifeline for someone in need.” The blood donation drive underscores Duravit India’s dedication to inclusive growth, community welfare, and sustainable development. The company’s manufacturing site in Tarapur, Gujarat, holds historical significance dating back to 1214 AD. Recognized during the 1st Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit for its ceramic sanitary ware production, the facility serves as a strategic hub and a vibrant community where employees actively contribute to social and economic impact.#ahmedabad #gujarat #duravit_india #sanjivani_blood_bank #jagvallabh_murtipujak_jain_sewa_samaj

Light to Moderate Rainfall Expected in Gujarat from March 18-20 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted light to moderate rainfall along with thundershowers in parts of Gujarat from March 18 to 20, following a recent heatwave that gripped the state. The weather update, released on Tuesday, highlights the anticipated relief from the prolonged dry spell, which saw temperatures soar to extreme levels. Ahmedabad recorded a high of 36.7 degrees Celsius, while Deesa reached 37.2, Bhuj 37, and Gandhinagar 36.5. Other cities such as Vadodara, Kandla, Bhavnagar, Naliya, Surat, and Porbandar reported temperatures ranging from 32.9 to 34.7 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperatures varied between 16.2 and 24.2 degrees Celsius, with Dwarka experiencing the highest at 24.2 and Dang at 16.2. Bhuj and Naliya in Kutch recorded 20.8 and 18 degrees Celsius, respectively. The IMD’s forecast indicates that rainfall will primarily affect North Gujarat, including districts like Banaskantha, Patan, and Sabarkantha, as well as Saurashtra regions such as Jamnagar, Morbi, and Dwarka, along with Kutch. On March 19, light to moderate rain with thundershowers is expected in Banaskantha, Patan, Sabarkantha, Dahod, and Panchmahal. Additional rainfall is anticipated in parts of Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, Dang, Tapi, Navsari, Valsad, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Morbi, Gir Somnath, Botad, and Kutch. On March 20, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Dahod, Mahisagar, and Kutch are projected to receive light rainfall. However, districts such as Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Mehsana, Kheda, and Anand are expected to remain dry during this period. The heatwave, which affected the state last week, led to a noticeable drop in temperatures on Tuesday.#ahmedabad #india_meteorological_department #gujarat #deesa #bhuj

Rain Forecast Expected Across Gujarat Districts; Three-Day Weather Break Anticipated Parts of Gujarat are set to experience light to moderate rainfall over the next three days, as an upper air cyclonic circulation forms over southwestern Rajasthan. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Ahmedabad has issued forecasts indicating that several districts will see scattered showers between March 18 and 20. Kutch, Saurashtra, South Gujarat, and parts of North Gujarat are included in the rainfall zone, while Central Gujarat is expected to remain dry. The weather system, located at approximately 0.9 km above sea level, is the primary reason for the anticipated rain. The rainfall pattern is expected to vary by district. On March 18, Banaskantha, Patan, and Sabarkantha may receive scattered showers, with winds potentially reaching 40–50 km/h. In Saurashtra, Jamnagar, Dwarka, and Morbi are likely to see some rainfall, while Kutch will experience light rain. The weather activity is projected to expand on March 19, with North Gujarat districts such as Banaskantha, Patan, Sabarkantha, Dahod, and Panchmahal possibly encountering thunder alongside rain. South Gujarat will see a broader impact, with Vadodara, Chhota Udaipur, Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, Dang, Tapi, Navsari, Valsad, Daman, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli included in the forecast. Saurashtra and Kutch will continue to see rain, with Surendranagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Morbi, Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Botad, and Diu also affected. Winds are expected to remain at 40–50 km/h throughout the day. Temperature trends across the region show a mixed picture. The past 24 hours have been dry in Saurashtra, Kutch, Diu, Daman, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. South Gujarat has experienced a drop in maximum temperatures, which are below normal.#ahmedabad #gujarat #kutch #india_metropolitan_department #saurashtra

Ahmedabad Witnesses Chaos Over Gas Cylinders, Watch Gujarat Aajtak A surge in demand and scarcity of gas cylinders has triggered widespread unrest in Ahmedabad, with citizens queuing for hours at gas agency outlets. The situation mirrors the ripple effects of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as tensions over fuel supplies have escalated across the country. In Gujarat, particularly in Ahmedabad, long lines have formed at gas agencies, with residents bracing for shortages. Authorities have deployed police personnel to ensure security at these locations, citing concerns over potential clashes amid the growing anxiety. The crisis has left households scrambling to secure essential supplies, highlighting the vulnerability of daily life to global supply chain disruptions.#middle_east #ahmedabad #gujarat_aajtak #gas_agencies #fuel_supplies

Complaint Filed Against Hardik Pandya for Alleged National Flag Insult An advocate has filed a complaint with Pune Police seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against cricketer Hardik Pandya for allegedly insulting the national flag during the T20 World Cup victory celebrations in Ahmedabad. The complaint, submitted by advocate Wajid Khan, claims Pandya wrapped the Indian tricolor around his body and engaged in obscene behavior on the ground while celebrating India’s win against New Zealand in the final. The application states that such actions constitute an offense under relevant laws and emphasizes the importance of respecting the national flag as a civic duty. Pandya, who played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph, described the victory as the fulfillment of a personal promise. He stated, “After winning the 2024 final in Barbados, I vowed to win every tournament I played. This win in Ahmedabad validates that promise and is just the start of our dominance.” The 32-year-old all-rounder, part of the ICC Team of the 2026 T20 World Cup, scored two half-centuries and took nine wickets in the tournament, showcasing his all-around contribution. The complaint highlights the alleged incident during the final, where Pandya’s celebratory actions reportedly involved the national flag. While the police have confirmed the complaint was filed, no further details have been disclosed. Pandya’s performance in the tournament included a 52-run innings against Namibia and a crucial bowling spell that helped secure India’s victory. India’s win in Ahmedabad marked their third T20 World Cup title and their first successful defense of the trophy. The team became the first to achieve this feat since the tournament’s inception in 2007.#t20_world_cup #ahmedabad #hardik_pandya #wajid_khan #indian_tricolor

India Triumphs Over New Zealand in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Final India secured a resounding 96-run victory over New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final at Ahmedabad on March 8, 2026. The match, which saw India dominate both batting and bowling, ended with the final over delivering a decisive blow. New Zealand, despite a spirited effort, fell short as India’s bowlers dismantled their innings, finishing with a total of 159 runs from 20 overs. The result marked a historic moment for Indian cricket, with the team celebrating their triumph as one of the greatest T20 sides in history. The final over, the 19th, proved pivotal as India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, tightened the screws on the New Zealand batting line. Bumrah’s performance was instrumental, taking four wickets for 15 runs in his spell, while Abhishek Sharma claimed one wicket. The New Zealand innings collapsed under the pressure, with Lockie Ferguson scoring 6 runs off 7 balls to be the highest scorer. The final scorecard reflected India’s dominance, with the team finishing at 159/10, leaving New Zealand needing 97 runs from just 6 balls. The celebrations for India’s victory were electric, with the team gathering on stage to lift the trophy and receive medals. Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Sanju Samson were among the first to step forward, drawing cheers from the crowd. Gautam Gambhir, wearing an India jersey, joined the festivities, highlighting the team’s unity. The celebrations extended into the night, with fireworks lighting up the sky and a drone show forming the iconic World Cup trophy. Player interviews provided insight into the victory. Sanju Samson, named Player of the Tournament, expressed his gratitude for the support he received, particularly from Sachin Tendulkar, who had guided him through his struggles.#icc_men_s_t20_world_cup_2026 #india #new_zealand #jasprit_bumrah #ahmedabad

T20 World Cup win: Kirti Azad slams Surya Kumar Yadav, Jay Shah for temple visit with trophy The former cricketer Kirti Azad criticized Indian cricket captain Surya Kumar Yadav and ICC Chairman Jay Shah for taking the T20 World Cup trophy to a temple in Ahmedabad after India’s victory over New Zealand in the 2026 final. Azad, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, expressed outrage on social media, accusing the leaders of the Indian team of prioritizing personal religious gestures over the collective pride of the nation. Azad’s post highlighted the contrast between the 1983 team’s approach and the current leadership’s actions. He recalled that the 1983 squad, which included players of diverse faiths, brought the trophy to India’s religious and cultural heartland, symbolizing unity. In contrast, he condemned the recent decision to display the trophy at a Hanuman Temple, arguing that it reduced the achievement to a personal celebration rather than a national triumph. “Siraj never paraded it at a Mosque. Sanju never took it to a Church,” Azad wrote, referencing past players like Sirajul Islam and Sanju Samson. He emphasized that the trophy belonged to all 1.4 billion Indians, regardless of religion, and criticized the leaders for what he called a “victory lap” for a single faith. The incident sparked debate about the role of religious symbolism in sports celebrations. While Yadav and Jay Shah, along with coach Gautam Gambhir, offered prayers at the temple following the win, Azad’s criticism underscored growing concerns about the politicization of national achievements. His post, which included a hashtag “SHAME ON TEAM INDIA,” resonated with many fans who felt the gesture overshadowed the team’s collective success.#ahmedabad #surya_kumar_yadav #kirti_azad #jay_shah #hanuman_temple

Scorching start to March: Ahmedabad wilts under 41.2°C Ahmedabad faced an intense heatwave on Monday as temperatures soared to 41.2°C, seven degrees above the seasonal average. Even the minimum temperature of 21.8°C was 3.9 degrees higher than normal, leaving little respite for residents. This marked the beginning of a three-day yellow alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for multiple districts in Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Kutch. The alert covers areas from coastal regions to the westernmost parts of the state, with hot and humid conditions expected to persist. The IMD forecasted that Ahmedabad’s maximum temperature would remain around 41°C on Tuesday, with the minimum hovering near 22°C. Sagarika Shah, a marketing executive from Prahladnagar, described the discomfort of the heat, stating, “Despite staying hydrated, I felt uneasy throughout the day.” Residents reported struggling with the extreme conditions, highlighting the impact on daily activities. Meteorologists attributed the sudden temperature spike to a shift in wind patterns, with northerly and north-westerly winds bringing in hot air from Rajasthan. Ashok Kumar Das, head of the IMD in Ahmedabad, explained that the departure from normal temperatures was unusually high for several weather stations, triggering the yellow alert. He noted that while March typically sees temperatures rise above 40°C in the latter half of the month, 2025 saw an earlier onset of extreme heat, with Ahmedabad reaching such levels by the third week. The IMD’s long-range forecast for March indicated above-normal temperatures across the region, signaling a trend of prolonged heat. Analysts pointed out that this year’s heatwave began a week earlier than usual, underscoring the growing intensity of summer in Gujarat.#ahmedabad #india_meteorological_department #vadodara #kutch #surat

Ish Sodhi's Emotional Moment at Ahmedabad Stadium During the national anthem ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Ish Sodhi, the New Zealand cricket team’s standout spin bowler, was seen struggling to hold back tears. The moment captured the attention of fans and media, highlighting the emotional weight of the occasion as the Indian and New Zealand teams stood in unison. Ish Sodhi, 33, is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s premier spinners. Born in Ludhiana, Punjab, he moved to Papatoetoe, New Zealand, with his family at the age of four. His cricketing journey began with his international debut in a Test match against Bangladesh in 2013. Sodhi later made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut against the West Indies in July 2014 and his One Day International (ODI) debut against Zimbabwe in August 2015. By 2018, Sodhi had climbed to the top of the ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings, showcasing his exceptional skill and consistency. He became a key player in New Zealand’s 2019 Cricket World Cup campaign, which ended in a runners-up finish. Sodhi also holds the record for the most T20I wickets against India, with 30 scalps in 25 matches at an average of 23.80. His ability to dismantle Indian batting lineups has made him a formidable opponent in international cricket. The emotional display at the Ahmedabad stadium occurred during a high-stakes T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand. The event, held at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, drew massive crowds and global attention. Sodhi’s moment of vulnerability underscored the intensity of the competition and the personal significance of representing his nation on such a grand stage. Throughout his career, Sodhi has been a consistent performer, contributing to New Zealand’s success in multiple formats.#t20_world_cup #ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #ish_sodhi #new_zealand_cricket_team

Season’s First Heatwave Hits Ahmedabad; Yellow Alert Issued Ahmedabad is bracing for its first heatwave of the season as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the city and several other districts. The alert, effective for Monday and Tuesday, covers regions including Kutch, Banaskantha, Gandhinagar, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, and Surat. These areas are expected to experience temperatures above normal, with coastal regions facing hot and humid conditions. The heatwave is already making an impact, with Ahmedabad recording a maximum temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius on Sunday—5.2 degrees above the seasonal average. The minimum temperature was also 1.2 degrees higher than normal, at 19.1 degrees Celsius. The IMD forecasts a gradual rise in both maximum and minimum temperatures by two to three degrees over the next three days. However, temperatures are expected to stabilize from March 11 onwards. In Rajkot and Surendranagar, mercury levels reached 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday, marking the first time this summer. Mahua and Deesa also saw temperatures exceed 39 degrees. The IMD’s long-range forecast for March indicates that most of Gujarat will experience above-normal temperatures, highlighting the severity of the heatwave. Residents are advised to take precautions, as the prolonged heat could pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. The yellow alert serves as a warning to prepare for the intense conditions, ensuring that necessary measures are taken to mitigate the impact of the heatwave.#ahmedabad #india_meteorological_department #kutch #banaskantha #gandhinagar

Today’s Sehri and Iftar Timings in Major Indian Cities Ramadan observances continue across India on Monday, March 9, with distinct schedules for the pre-dawn meal (Sehri) and sunset meal (Iftar) in different cities. In Kolkata, the earliest timings are observed, with Sehri at 4:37 AM and Iftar at 5:45 PM. In contrast, Mumbai and Ahmedabad have later timings, reflecting variations based on local sunrise and sunset patterns. These schedules are sourced from UrduPoint, which provides updated timings for each region. The differences in timings are influenced by the geographical location and the natural light cycles of each city. For instance, cities in the eastern part of India, such as Kolkata, experience earlier sunrise and sunset compared to western cities like Mumbai. This variation ensures that Muslims across the country can adhere to their religious practices while respecting local environmental conditions. The Ramadan schedule is determined by tracking the position of the sun and moon, which varies by region. In cities with longer days during this period, the Sehri time is earlier, allowing for a longer fasting period. Conversely, in cities with shorter days, the Iftar time is later, accommodating the sunset. This adjustment ensures that the fast aligns with the natural cycles of each area. The timings are widely used by communities to plan their daily routines, from prayer schedules to social gatherings. Many mosques and Islamic organizations also rely on these timings to coordinate activities during the holy month. The information is regularly updated to reflect any changes in the sun’s position, ensuring accuracy for all observers. Overall, the Ramadan timings highlight the adaptability of Islamic practices to local conditions while maintaining the core principles of the faith.#kolkata #mumbai #ahmedabad #ramadan #urdu_point

Suryakumar Yadav vs Sanju Samson: Who is richer and more educated? Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson, two prominent Indian cricketers, have emerged as key figures in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Yadav, serving as the team captain, led India to four consecutive victories, propelling them to the final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad. His leadership and performance have positioned him to potentially retire at the peak of his career. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson, who initially started the tournament as a substitute, made a significant impact after joining the team during the Super 8 stage. His contributions earned him recognition as a "match-winner," helping India reach the final. Yadav’s financial success is estimated to range between Rs 55 crore and Rs 65 crore as of 2026. His wealth stems from a combination of IPL earnings, BCCI contracts, and brand endorsements. He maintains a luxurious lifestyle, including ownership of a Rs 21 crore home in Mumbai and a collection of high-end vehicles. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, has a higher net worth, projected between Rs 85 crore and Rs 100 crore. His income is driven by lucrative IPL and BCCI contracts, along with multiple brand partnerships. In terms of education, Yadav holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree from Pillai College in Mumbai. He completed his schooling at the Atomic Energy Central School in Mumbai and also trained at the Elf Vengsarkar Academy to refine his cricketing skills. Sanju Samson earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Literature from Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram. Before pursuing higher education, he attended Rosary Senior Secondary School in Delhi and St. Joseph’s Higher Secondary School in Thiruvananthapuram. Both players balanced their academic pursuits with their cricketing careers, showcasing dedication to their respective fields.#mumbai #suryakumar_yadav #ahmedabad #sanju_samson #2026_t20_world_cup

"Expect Some Firecrackers" – Dinesh Karthik’s Classy Response To Michael Vaughan’s Jibe At His Ritual Ahead Of IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 Final Dinesh Karthik, the former Indian keeper-batter, delivered a polished response to a jibe from ex-England captain Michael Vaughan ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand. Vaughan had teased Karthik’s pre-match ritual of pressing his shirt, a tradition he adopted after India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The former England captain quipped that the “iron must be pressed on the pitch in Ahmedabad” due to Team India’s preference for flat tracks, a comment Karthik deftly countered by acknowledging the flat pitch and promising fans “some firecrackers” in the final. Karthik’s ritual of pressing his shirt has become a recurring pre-match tradition, dating back to the 2024 T20 World Cup final. The practice has since been repeated before major matches such as the Champions Trophy 2025 final, Asia Cup 2025 final, Women’s World Cup 2025 final, and the WPL 2026 final. India has secured victories in all these events, while the Rajasthan Royals claimed the WPL title earlier in 2026. Fans have embraced the tradition, often urging Karthik to continue the ritual ahead of key matches to bring good fortune for the national team. Vaughan’s comment, which suggested that India’s success was tied to the flat conditions in Ahmedabad, was met with Karthik’s witty reply. He acknowledged the flat pitch but emphasized that the team’s preparation and determination would ensure a thrilling performance. His response, shared on social media, included the line: “That’s the next progression to this. And btw, the pitch is very flat for tonight. So expect some firecrackers.#t20_world_cup_2026 #ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #michael_vaughan #dinesh_karthik