Explainer

Canadian rapper Drake has bet $750,000 (Rs 6.4 crore) on Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win the IPL 2025 final against Punjab Kings, sparking fears of the infamous “Drake Curse” resurfacing in cricket.

Xabi Alonso aims to break the long-standing curse of Spanish coaches at Real Madrid, where none have succeeded since Vicente del Bosque's departure in 2003.

Driven by technological innovations and changing geopolitical dynamics, the drone warfare is evolving rapidly across the globe.

Ukraine and Russia agreed to swap over 1,000 prisoners on each side, including sick and young soldiers. But Moscow rejected Kyiv's call for an unconditional ceasefire, proposing only a brief local truce instead.

Peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul ended quickly with no ceasefire deal. Tensions rose after Ukraine’s major drone strike damaged Russia’s nuclear-capable bombers. Both sides exchanged prisoner lists but made little progress.

South Africa is rising from the ocean, and scientists now believe climate change-driven droughts are responsible. Loss of groundwater and surface water is causing the Earth’s crust to lift, researchers say.

A new study shows obesity may lead to anxiety-like behaviour through changes in brain function and gut microbiota. Diet-induced obesity in mice triggered both physical and mental health issues, especially during adolescence and early adulthood.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said allies like China and Saudi Arabia expect trade, not aid, from Islamabad. His comments came after the IMF approved new loans despite India’s objections and amid tensions over Operation Sindoor.

PV Anvar has alleged that Congress leader VD Satheesan is influenced by Pinarayi Vijayan. He will contest the election under the party symbol of Trinamool Congress.

“The global demand for these Indian-manufactured defence assets has soared exponentially in the aftermath of this landmark operation,” writes Dr.(Er.) Subodha Kumar Rautaray.