Category Archives: india

cricket, india, international tournament, sports, women's sports

ICC Women’s World Cup 2025: Decoding India’s strongest XI

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**ICC Women’s World Cup 2025: Decoding India’s Strongest XI**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 28, 2025, 01:58 pm*

As co-hosts of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, India enter the tournament as one of the favorites. The competition is set to begin on September 30, with Harmanpreet Kaur leading the team for the first time in a Women’s World Cup. Smriti Mandhana, the star opener, will serve as her deputy. India’s squad features a balanced mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, creating a well-rounded unit ready to compete at the highest level.

### Top Order Batters: Mandhana, Rawal, Deol
India’s top order looks solid with Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and Harleen Deol occupying the first three batting slots. Mandhana has been a consistent performer, scoring the most WODI runs since the 2022 tournament in New Zealand where India finished fifth. Young sensation Pratika Rawal has impressed with 802 WODI runs at an impressive average of 50.12. Meanwhile, Harleen Deol has been in excellent form recently, adding valuable runs at a crucial time.

### Strong Middle Order
The middle order boasts experienced campaigners like captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, and wicket-keeper Richa Ghosh. Harmanpreet, Deepti, and Jemimah have maintained averages above 38 while striking at over 100 in WODIs this year. Deepti Sharma has particularly shone in 2025, amassing runs at a remarkable average of 76.20. Richa Ghosh has excelled in the finisher’s role with an aggressive strike rate of 130.26, making her a key player down the order.

### The Bowling Attack
Sneh Rana adds depth to the lower order with her valuable batting and reliable off-spin. Her ability to contribute crucial runs and tight bowling makes her an asset in pressure situations. Alongside Rana and Deepti Sharma, Radha Yadav is expected to be the second spinner, which suits the slow pitches of India and Sri Lanka. The pace attack will be led by the return of Renuka Singh Thakur, providing a significant boost to the team. Emerging pacer Kranti Goud, who has been a revelation, is likely to complete the bowling lineup.

### Final Playing XI for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025
– Smriti Mandhana
– Pratika Rawal
– Harleen Deol
– Harmanpreet Kaur (captain)
– Jemimah Rodrigues
– Deepti Sharma
– Richa Ghosh (wicket-keeper)
– Sneh Rana
– Renuka Singh Thakur
– Kranti Goud
– Radha Yadav

This squad represents a perfect blend of experience and youth, combining solid batting depth with versatile bowling options. As hosts, India will aim to leverage their home conditions and the balanced team composition to make a strong push for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 title.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/india-s-probable-xi-in-2025-women-s-world-cup/story

culture, history, india, philosophy, religion

Is Sanatan dharma a Pagan faith?

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Many Sanatanis today like to describe Hinduism as the mother of all dharmic religions, and sometimes even as the mother of all pagan faiths. This obsession with the word *pagan* is not native to India. It comes from Europe and America. In the 1960s and ’70s, hippies who disliked Judaism and Christianity, or who wanted to weaponize Hinduism against Islam, embraced this word and dragged it into Hindu conversations.

The word *pagan* itself has a strange history. Early Christians used it to mean peasants, rustic folk, people outside the army of Christ. It carried a sense of backwardness. Modern scholars now say the word comes from *pagus*, the smallest administrative unit of the Roman Empire. Those who worshipped local gods of the *pagus* were called pagans.

Seen this way, religion can be divided into two broad categories. One kind is tied to a place. It honours local gods and spirits of hills, rivers, groves, or villages. The other kind transcends geography. It builds on doctrine, not landscape. India has both. Every region has its local gods, but over these gods, Vedic ideas—detached from any single location—take precedence.

Christianity works the same way. It started in Jerusalem, then Rome became its centre, but it does not depend on either city. Islam, too, broke free of geography. Its followers do not worship local gods. They face Mecca, and Mecca alone, the seat of the god of Arabia.

Europe before Christianity was full of local religions. These were later branded *pagan*. Over time, pagans were imagined in very different ways. Some called them noble savages, close to nature. Others called them wicked savages who had to be tamed.

In the 18th century, with the rise of evolutionary theories, people placed pagan religions somewhere between primitive savagery and refined monotheism. Germans glorified their Viking ancestors as pure gods of the land, uncorrupted by Christianity. Admirers of Greece and Rome saw their paganism as sophisticated—until it was supposedly polluted by eastern rituals.

In England, the Industrial Revolution destroyed woods and groves. Intellectuals mourned and romanticized the pagan past as a lost paradise. In France, less industrialized, pagan nature worship looked sinister, even satanic.

By the Victorian age, when Christianity became increasingly puritanical, paganism was recast as free-spirited. It was imagined as a religion of the body, celebrating love and sexuality. But this pagan past was not remembered—it was invented. Christianity and modernity created the image of the pagan to suit their own needs.

Paganism became a mirror for anxieties about nature, body, and morality. Pagans were the other—those who did not align.

The countless local gods of Hindu villages were never wiped out. But they were reinterpreted. Vedic and Vedantic doctrines were layered on them. What was once a forest spirit became a form of Vishnu, Shiva, or Shakti. In this way, local faiths were whitewashed, given a respectable Sanskritic coating.

In the 19th century, many intellectual Hindus insisted that Hinduism was not pagan. They shunned the tree and animal worship part of Hinduism and focused on Vedanta. Today, politicians have realized that vote banks believe in old village and tribal rituals. Hence, in the 21st century, it makes sense to refer to Hindus as pagans, distinct from monotheistic religions like Islam and Christianity.

—

*The author writes and lectures on the relevance of mythology in modern times. Reach him at devdutt.pattanaik@mid-day.com.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/is-sanatan-dharma-a-pagan-faith-23596150

celebration, culture, india, music

Nisha’s Mumbai: Of Patriotism, Parties, And Pioneering Design; Nisha JamVwal Gives A Glimpse Of Her Spectacular Week

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When Music Becomes a Love Letter to the Nation

I cannot begin this column without giving due credit to national awardee lyricist Manoj Muntashir, the master storyteller who, in collaboration with composers Ajay-Atul and some exceedingly talented singers, presented the untold story of our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a musical at NMACC titled *Mera Desh Pahle*. Little-known vignettes of his childhood and journey were given life through this emotional musical that had audiences shouting desh bhakti slogans.

The moment that stirred my soul was when the entire auditorium rose in spontaneous chants for our Prime Minister, voices merging in *Vande Mataram* and *Mera Bharat Mahan*. I had goosebumps as this opening night swept up in a wave of passionate pride. I wholeheartedly agree with CM Devendra Fadnavis that our Prime Minister has elevated us to such heights internationally that we feel this profound pride in being Indian.

We stand tall today thanks to one man’s extraordinary vision and relentless efforts, and this musical epitomizes his remarkable journey.

—

### Art of Turning Fifty in Feathers and Finery

Close on the heels of the larger-than-life Gautam Singhania extravaganza came another marquee celebration—grand, familial, and utterly enchanting. While the beautiful lady who had this special birthday will remain anonymous, I must share that one guest—the lovely Jaya Raheja in her show-stopping red feather gown—once again proved her artful penchant for avant-garde experimental excellence. Wow, did she steal the show!

The entire venue, which used to be a much-loved movie studio, was transformed into opulent banquet rooms, bars, and dining spaces to accommodate friends and family who flew in from across the globe, along with Mumbai’s glittering ‘set.’

Cars snaked their way in, filled with women trying to decode the mysterious theme. The glamour quotient was sky-high, and the band elevated the energy to euphoric levels. It was one of those evenings where celebration becomes an art form.

—

### When Design Dreams Take Flight

Ashiti Bhartia of the Elle Magazine group hosted the ID Design and Architecture show, and it outdid every design exposition I’ve attended this year. This sprawling showcase of India’s finest design brands was nothing short of spectacular.

It’s transformational how AI and technology have become a big part of design, making life more seamless for designers, architects, and house-proud shaukeen DIY clients who wish to design their homes on their own. The choices available today are simply magnificent.

The opening night drew architects and interior designers in droves, creating a buzzing hive of creative energy with music and bartenders juggling glasses and drinks. What struck me most was how the event transformed from a mere exhibition into a confluence of artistic minds—each corner revealing innovative concepts that push the boundaries of Indian design sensibilities.

It’s events like these that remind me why Mumbai remains the cultural pulse of our nation.

—

*Write to Nisha JamVwal at nishjamwal@gmail.com*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/nishas-mumbai-of-patriotism-parties-and-pioneering-design-nisha-jamvwal-gives-a-glimpse-of-her-spectacular-week

cricket, india, international, sports, women's sports

Suryakumar backs Jemimah to shine in Women’s World Cup

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**Suryakumar Backs Jemimah Rodrigues to Shine in Women’s World Cup 2025**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:44 PM*

India’s men’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, has expressed strong confidence in Jemimah Rodrigues ahead of the Women’s World Cup 2025. This tournament marks Jemimah’s first-ever World Cup appearance since her ODI debut in 2018. She is set to play her maiden World Cup match against Sri Lanka on September 30 at Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium.

**Praise for Jemimah’s Resilience**

Jemimah recently recovered from a viral fever that sidelined her for two games in a three-match ODI series against Australia. Despite this setback, Suryakumar praised her resilience and positive attitude. Speaking in a video uploaded on BCCI Women X, he said, “I think for Jemi, the best way to describe her is ‘chhota packet, bada dhamaka’,” highlighting her impactful presence despite her small stature.

He added that Jemimah always stays calm and keeps a smile on her face even in tough situations, demonstrating admirable mental strength.

**Confidence Ahead of the World Cup**

Suryakumar expressed faith in Jemimah’s ability to deliver strong performances on the biggest stage. “Playing in the World Cup is a great opportunity, and I’m confident she’ll deliver,” he said.

The 35-year-old also complimented Jemimah’s energy, calling it “amazing” and “infectious,” which he believes boosts the morale of the entire team.

**Learning from Jemimah’s Composure Under Pressure**

Highlighting Jemimah’s performances in high-pressure matches, Suryakumar shared that the Indian men’s team draws inspiration from her. “We also get to learn a lot from her in big, high-pressure games,” he remarked.

He added that her ability to perform under pressure is something the team aspires to emulate. Advising Jemimah, he encouraged her to keep doing what she has been doing and to enjoy every moment on the field.

**Strong World Cup Preparations**

Jemimah has made a promising start to her World Cup preparations, scoring 66 runs off 68 balls, including eight fours, in a warm-up match against England held on September 27 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, Suryakumar himself is facing challenges with the bat in the ongoing Asia Cup, having scored 71 runs across five innings, averaging 23.66 with a strike rate of 107.57.

—

*Watch the full video with Suryakumar’s comments on BCCI Women X and stay tuned for more updates on the Women’s World Cup 2025.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/suryakumar-backs-jemimah-to-fire-in-women-s-world-cup/story

india, international, politics

Pune: Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde Slams Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s UNGA Remarks, Says Stay Within Limits – VIDEO

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Pune: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday strongly objected to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks made during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), stating that the Pakistani leader should stay within his limits.

Speaking to ANI, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, “…He should stay within his limits. A jackal doesn’t become a lion by wearing a lion’s skin…”

Shinde’s statement came in response to Shehbaz Sharif’s address at the UN General Debate, where the Pakistan Prime Minister alleged that India attempted to extract “political gains” following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and further accused India of attacking “innocent civilians”.

Sharif stated, “In May this year, my country confronted unprovoked aggression from our eastern front. The enemy came shrouded in arrogance, and we sent them back in humiliation. India sought to extract political gains from a human tragedy by spurning my sincere offer of an independent investigation into the Pahalgam incident. Instead, it attacked our cities and targeted our innocent civilians.

When our territorial integrity and national security were violated, our response was in accordance with the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.”

Sharif also reiterated false claims about India, asserting that Pakistan shot down Indian fighter jets—a statement he has made previously. He claimed that Pakistan’s forces responded with “stunning professionalism,” repelling the aggression and shooting down seven Indian jets, sending them “to scrap and dust”.

He added, “Our valiant armed forces mounted an operation of stunning professionalism, repulsing the enemy’s attack. Our falcons took flight and etched their answer across the skies, resulting in seven of the Indian jets turning to scrap and dust.”

However, the Pakistan Prime Minister failed to acknowledge that India’s response was a calibrated military operation targeting terror infrastructure. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The operation specifically targeted nine terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

India and Pakistan reached an understanding on May 10 to end the conflict after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes. Unlike Shehbaz Sharif’s hypothetical claims, India provided detailed evidence of the strikes through press conferences held by top military officials, including satellite images.

During the first press briefing on May 7, India clarified its response as focused, measured, and non-escalatory. It was specifically mentioned that Pakistani military establishments had not been targeted. It was also reiterated that any attack on military targets in India would invite a suitable response.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in multiple press briefings on May 8, 9, and 10, outlined India’s plan of action and exposed the full extent of Pakistan’s designs. India successfully destroyed nine major terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), targeting Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen facilities. Over 100 terrorists were killed in action.

Despite repeated false claims by Pakistan, India’s position has been backed by international observers who have acknowledged its right to act in self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-maharashtra-dy-cm-eknath-shinde-slams-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharifs-unga-remarks-says-stay-within-limits-video

india, international, politics

Pune: Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde Slams Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s UNGA Remarks, Says Stay Within Limits – VIDEO

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**Pune:** Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday strongly objected to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks made during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), stating that the Pakistani leader should “stay within his limits.”

Speaking to ANI, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, “He should stay within his limits. A jackal doesn’t become a lion by wearing a lion’s skin.”

Shinde’s statement came in response to Shehbaz Sharif’s address at the UN General Debate, where the Pakistan Prime Minister alleged that India attempted to extract “political gains” following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and further accused India of attacking “innocent civilians.”

“In May this year, my country confronted unprovoked aggression from our eastern front. The enemy came shrouded in arrogance, and we sent them back in humiliation,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

He claimed, “India sought to extract political gains from a human tragedy by spurning my sincere offer of an independent investigation into the Pahalgam incident. Instead, it attacked our cities and targeted our innocent civilians.”

Sharif justified Pakistan’s response by saying, “When our territorial integrity and national security were violated, our response was in accordance with the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.”

Sharif reiterated false claims about India, asserting that Pakistan shot down Indian fighter jets—an accusation he has made previously. “Our valiant armed forces mounted an operation of stunning professionalism, repulsing the enemy’s attack. Our falcons took flight and etched their answer across the skies, resulting in seven of the Indian jets turning to scrap and dust,” he added.

However, the Pakistan Prime Minister failed to acknowledge that India’s response was a calibrated military operation targeting terror infrastructure.

India launched **Operation Sindoor** on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The operation specifically targeted nine terror launchpads located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), aiming at Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen facilities.

India and Pakistan reached an understanding on May 10 to end the conflict after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.

Unlike Shehbaz Sharif’s hypothetical claims, India backed up the details of these strikes with press conferences held by top military officials, who provided evidence including satellite images.

During the first press briefing on May 7, India clarified its response as focused, measured, and non-escalatory. It was specifically mentioned that Pakistani military establishments had not been targeted and it was reiterated that any attack on military targets in India would invite a suitable response.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in multiple press briefings on May 8, 9, and 10, laid bare India’s plan of action and exposed the full extent of Pakistan’s designs.

India successfully destroyed nine major terror launchpads in Pakistan and PoJK, killing over 100 terrorists in action.

Despite repeated false claims by Pakistan, India’s position has been supported by international observers, who have acknowledged India’s right to act in self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-maharashtra-dy-cm-eknath-shinde-slams-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharifs-unga-remarks-says-stay-within-limits-video

asia cup, batting, cricket, india, sports

‘Please Take This As A Cricketing Observation’: Mohammad Kaif Clarifies His Tweet After Jasprit Bumrah Calls His Assessment ‘Inaccurate’ Amid Asia Cup 2025

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Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has politely responded to Jasprit Bumrah’s remarks regarding his observation about Suryakumar Yadav’s utilization of the pacer, calling the comment inaccurate. Kaif clarified that his statement was merely a cricketing observation made as a well-wisher and admirer, and was not intended to be critical.

In the ongoing Asia Cup, Suryakumar Yadav often bowls three overs upfront of Bumrah, which leaves the right-arm speedster with only one over at the end. Although Bumrah has struggled slightly at times, he has still delivered crucial performances for the Indian team. The Ahmedabad-born bowler remains the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the competition, with five wickets in four matches.

Earlier, Bumrah retweeted Kaif’s tweet and wrote, “Inaccurate before, inaccurate again.” Responding to Bumrah on X, Kaif maintained a respectful tone: “Please take this as a cricketing observation from a well-wisher and an admirer. You are Indian cricket’s biggest match-winner and I know what it takes to give it all when on field wearing India colours.”

In India’s recent match against Bangladesh, Jasprit Bumrah played a key role in their 41-run victory. Despite having leaked over 40 runs against Pakistan in an earlier game, Bumrah was in top form against Bangladesh, finishing with impressive bowling figures of 4-0-18-2. His disciplined bowling helped the Men in Blue defend a modest total of 168, restricting Bangladesh to 127.

India’s batting in the match was largely led by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 75 runs off just 37 deliveries, continuing his formidable form in the tournament. Although India’s finish was not as strong as fans might have hoped, the team maintained control throughout. Bangladesh started positively but lost regular wickets, with Kuldeep Yadav shining as the pick of the Indian bowlers by claiming three wickets.

Looking ahead, India is set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on September 28, Sunday, in Dubai. Before that high-stakes encounter, the Men in Blue will use their game against Sri Lanka to fine-tune their preparations and strategies.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/please-take-this-as-a-cricketing-observation-mohammad-kaif-clarifies-his-tweet-after-jasprit-bumrah-calls-his-assessment-inaccurate-amid-asia-cup-2025

defense, india, military

MiG-21 Retires: India Bids Farewell To IAF’s Iconic Fighter Jet During Decommissioning Ceremony Held In Chandigarh; VIDEO

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**Indian Air Force’s Legendary MiG-21 Decommissioned in Chandigarh**

Chandigarh: The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) iconic MiG-21 fighter jet was officially decommissioned on Friday, September 26, in a grand ceremony held in Chandigarh. The event was graced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, and other senior IAF officials.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh flew the last sortie of the squadron with the call sign ‘Badal 3’. The formation included three aircraft flying in the Badal formation and four in the Panther formation. Squadron Leader Priya Sharma also flew alongside Air Chief Marshal Singh, marking a memorable finale.

Adding to the spectacle, the IAF’s elite skydiving team, ‘Akash Ganga,’ performed a breathtaking display by skydiving from a height of 8,000 feet, captivating the audience below.

### Full Decommissioning Ceremony

The skydiving event was followed by a majestic flypast of MiG-21 aircraft, accompanied by a precision drill display by the air warrior team and an aerial salute. The famous Surya Kiran aerobatic team also enthralled attendees with their exquisite maneuvers.

Prominent guests at the ceremony included former IAF Chiefs S.P. Tyagi and B.S. Dhanoa. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), was also present to witness this historic moment.

### MiG-21’s Legacy

The MiG-21 holds a special place in India’s aviation history as the country’s first supersonic jets. These aircraft served in the Indian Air Force for over six decades and were the backbone of India’s air defence during the 1960s and 1970s.

The fighter jet played critical roles in key military operations, including the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. However, over time, the MiG-21 earned the unfortunate nickname ‘Flying Coffin’ due to a rising number of crashes and safety concerns.

### LCA Tejas Mk-1A to Replace MiG-21

With the retirement of the MiG-21, the IAF’s fighter squadron strength is expected to reduce to 29 squadrons from the sanctioned strength of 42. To bridge this gap, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A, the most advanced version of the Tejas, will be inducted.

Recently, the Ministry of Defence signed a landmark contract worth Rs 62,370 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) to procure 97 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft for the IAF. The new fighters will feature 64% indigenous content and come equipped with state-of-the-art systems, including the Uttam active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite, and advanced flight actuators.

The decommissioning of the MiG-21 marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the Indian Air Force with cutting-edge indigenous technology leading the way.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/mig-21-retires-india-bids-farewell-to-iafs-iconic-fighter-jet-during-decommissioning-ceremony-held-in-chandigarh

business, india, markets, real estate, urban development

Mumbai’s Residential Market Records 9% YoY Growth In Q3, Reveals Knight Frank Report

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In its latest report, **‘India Real Estate: Residential and Office Q3 2024 (July – September 2024)’**, Knight Frank India revealed significant growth trends in Mumbai’s real estate market.

### Mumbai’s Residential Market Leads with Highest Sales

Mumbai’s residential market recorded the highest sales among eight major Indian cities, with **24,222 units sold**, marking a **9% year-on-year (YoY) growth**. During the same period, the city witnessed the launch of **23,677 new residential units**.

The average weighted residential price in Mumbai saw a **6% YoY increase**, reaching **Rs 8,056 per sq ft**, making it the highest residential price in the country.

### Growth Across Price Segments

Mumbai experienced a **10% YoY growth** in the Rs 5 million to 10 million ticket size category during Q3 2024, which contributed to **24% of the city’s total sales**. Meanwhile, the under Rs 5 million segment recorded the highest sales volume, with **10,198 units sold**—representing **42% of total sales**.

The Rs 10 million and above category showed a robust **16% YoY growth**, rising from 7,018 units in Q3 2023 to 8,153 units in Q3 2024.

### Office Space: Record Transactions and Completions

Mumbai also led the office real estate market, reporting the highest number of office space transactions among the eight cities, with **1.93 million sq ft** leased during Q3 2024.

The city’s total office space transactions reached **2.7 million sq ft** during this period, while office completions surged by **167%**, hitting **0.8 million sq ft**.

### Industry Insights from Knight Frank India

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director of Knight Frank India, commented,
“**Mumbai’s residential market has sustained its strong momentum in 2024**, supported by steady sales, a solid economic outlook, and stable interest rates, all contributing to positive homebuyer sentiment. With continued stability in socio-economic and political conditions, the upcoming festive season, and the ongoing growth trajectory, we expect a strong close to 2024, with both residential and commercial office transactions hitting record levels.”

### Broader Office Market Trends

The report also highlighted that office space transactions across the country reached **19 million sq ft in Q3 2024**, the highest quarterly absorption since Q1 2018. This reflects an **18% YoY increase** from 16.1 million sq ft in Q3 2023.

Year-to-date leasing stood at **53.7 million sq ft** within the first nine months of 2024, a **27% increase YoY**, putting the market on track to achieve a new annual high.

The strong demand in office space demonstrates business confidence in the Indian economy’s ongoing growth. Additionally, increased interest from GCC countries signals a growing commitment from global enterprises towards India’s business environment.

### Perspective from Ajmera Realty & Infra India Ltd

Dhaval Ajmera, Director at Ajmera Realty & Infra India Ltd, added,
“India’s real estate sector, particularly in cities like Mumbai, is experiencing significant growth due to extensive infrastructural development. Mumbai has seen a strong increase in redevelopment activities, reshaping the skyline of key micro-markets and creating demand in emerging areas. The recognition of real estate as a valuable asset class has also attracted numerous domestic and NRI investors.”

He further noted,
“When it comes to commercial real estate, established locations like BKC and Nariman Point are nearly at peak capacity. However, emerging micro-markets such as Wadala are becoming strong contenders for commercial and retail real estate. The reopening of offices and growth in job opportunities in India’s Silicon Valley are attracting businesses and professionals, driving increases in commercial real estate sales and rental prices in this area.”

“Overall, with strong support from the increased purchasing power of homebuyers and their desire to enhance living conditions, the positive growth trend in the Indian real estate market is expected to continue into the coming year,” Ajmera concluded.

—

**For more updates and insights on India’s real estate sector, stay tuned to Knight Frank India.**
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/mumbais-residential-market-records-9-yoy-growth-in-q3-reveals-knight-frank-report

celebrity, drama, entertainment, india, personal stories

Kenishaa Francis Reveals Jayam Ravi’s Shocking Condition After His Separation From Aarti: ‘He Was Mentally Bruised’

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Jayam Ravi recently took his fans by surprise when he announced his separation from his wife, Aarti Ravi, after 15 years of marriage. Shortly after the news broke, rumours emerged linking him to singer and spiritual healer Kenishaa Francis, with claims that she played a role in the couple’s split.

Kenishaa has now responded to these rumours, calling them “false” claims. She clarified that Jayam is one of her clients. Speaking to DT Next, Kenishaa revealed that the actor reached out to her around June, during a time when he was “mentally, emotionally bruised and battered” from his marriage to Aarti.

“There are certain articles that say I am the reason behind his separation from his ex-wife. Those are false claims. He came to me only after he had sent a notice for divorce by mutual consent through his lawyer. He approached me because he didn’t want anyone in Chennai to know about this. I didn’t immediately accept him as a client; I needed to ensure I could truly help him,” she stated.

Addressing the negativity she has faced on social media, Kenishaa expressed that she does not deserve such “hateful” comments.

Amid reports claiming that Kenishaa and Jayam purchased an apartment in Goa, she clarified the situation, saying that while she has been manifesting this for a long time, she wished it were true, implying that the rumours were unfounded.

“Ravi is a friend and a client of mine. I didn’t even know Jayam Ravi well until he sent a divorce notice to his wife, who has blatantly lied that she isn’t aware of what was to come. Any speculation about a romantic relationship is purely media-driven, and they will be responsible even if something happens between us in the future,” Kenishaa asserted.

She emphasized that their relationship is strictly professional and that there has been no physical involvement between them, as both are aware of their boundaries.

“No one deserves so much abuse irrespective of the gender, and I can release all the evidence, with or without Ravi’s permission, in the court of law, from my notes of our therapy sessions. Anything to do with his divorce has to be questioned with Ravi and Aarti and their leading families,” she shared.

Kenishaa further alleged, “Just because Aarti is afraid of what she’s done to Ravi, she cannot use me as a scapegoat to cover up her doings. What Aarti has been doing in the last one month in tarnishing his image and to his bank accounts are questionable. This is not my circus and I cannot be battling this.”

She concluded by warning, “If these rumour mills continue, I may have to consider legal action for defamation.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/kenishaa-francis-reveals-jayam-ravis-shocking-condition-after-his-separation-from-aarti-he-was-mentally-bruised