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Heavy rains lash Mumbai, cause waterlogging and traffic jams

Rain lashed parts of Mumbai on Saturday morning, causing waterlogging and traffic snarls in several areas. The city has been experiencing heavy rains over the past few days…reports Asian Lite News

Mumbai received heavy rainfall on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, leading to severe waterlogging in various parts of the city.

The Andheri Subway was affected by the intense rain, and several areas, including the vicinity of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, were inundated.

The heavy downpour also led to severe traffic jams on the Western Express Highway.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Nowcast warning for intense spells of rain at isolated places in the districts of Raigad and Thane for the next 3 to 4 hours on Sunday.

“Intense spells of rain are very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Raigad and Thane during the next 3-4 hours,” IMD Mumbai said in the early hours of Sunday.

Earlier, Mumbai’s civic authorities requested residents to avoid going out unless necessary as the IMD issued an orange alert for the city, predicting heavy to very heavy rain.

“The IMD has issued an orange alert (heavy to very heavy rain) for Mumbai. People are requested to avoid going out unless necessary,” the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation said in a statement on Saturday.

An orange alert was also issued for Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts in Maharashtra’s Konkan region.

Rain lashed parts of Mumbai on Saturday morning, causing waterlogging and traffic snarls in several areas. The city has been experiencing heavy rains over the past few days.

According to the IMD, the maximum and minimum temperatures in Mumbai are expected to be around 29 and 24 degrees Celsius, respectively.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall in the city and suburbs at a few places today.

The possibility of extremely heavy rainfall has also been predicted in isolated places. Occasional winds at a speed of 45 to 55 km per hour are also very likely.

Further, the BMC also predicted a warning of 3.17 metres high tides at 5:22 a.m. and 3.52 metres high tides at 5: 14 p.m.

Low Tides are predicted at 2.35 metres at 10: 47 a.m. and 1.60 metres at 11:57 p.m.

Additionally, the average rainfall recorded between yesterday morning and today morning is 115.81 mm.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department forecast moderate to intense spells of rain very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Sindhudurg and Ghat areas of Pune.

Previously, the Mumbai civic authority had requested the residents of the city to avoid going out and travelling unless very necessary, as the IMD had issued an orange alert for the city, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall.

“The IMD has issued an orange alert (heavy to very heavy rain) for Mumbai today. People are requested to avoid going out unless necessary,” the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement.

An orange alert was also issued for the regions of Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts in Maharashtra’s Konkan area.

Death toll rises to 91 in Assam floods

The flood situation in Assam has claimed 91 lives across the state, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) said on Saturday.

Earlier, ASDMA said on Friday that the number of deaths in Assam floods has increased to 90. Seven more people died in the state on Friday, according to an ASDMA report.

According to the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS), the Brahmaputra River in Neamatighat, Tezpur, and Dhubri, the Burhi Dihing tributary in Chenimari (Khowang), the Disang River in Nanglamuraghat, and the Kushiyara River in Karimganj are flowing above danger levels.

Twenty-one districts in the state have been affected, including Cachar, Nalbari, Kamrup, Golaghat, Goalpara, Morigaon, Dibrugarh, Dhubri, Nagaon, Hailakandi, Dhemaji, Majuli, Sivasagar, South Salmara, Darrang, Karimganj, Barpeta, Kamrup (M), Biswanath, Chirang, and Jorhat.

While the flood situation in the state has been improving marginally, over 12.33 lakh people are still affected by the deluge.

A total of 2,406 villages under 75 revenue circles and 32,924.32 hectares of crop area were under water.

Dhubri district is the worst affected, with 3,18,326 people impacted, followed by 1,48,609 people in Cachar, 95,277 people in Golaghat, 88,120 people in Nagaon, 83,125 people in Goalpara, 82,494 in Majuli, 73,662 people in Dhemaji, and 63,400 people in South Salmara district.

Over 2.95 lakh people are taking shelter in 316 relief camps and distribution centres in flood-affected districts.

The ASDMA flood report also stated that 6,67,175 animals have been affected by the deluge.

Meanwhile, 180 wild animals, including 10 rhinos, have died in the flood in Kaziranga National Park so far.

Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park, said that 10 rhinos, 150 hog deer, 2 swamp deer, and several sambar deer drowned in floodwaters, while 2 hog deer died in vehicle collisions, 13 other animals died under care, and one otter pup died from other causes.

During the floods, park authorities and the forest department rescued 135 animals, including two rhino calves and two elephant calves. Thirty-five forest camps in the national park are still under water. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Rain brings Mumbai to its knees again

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Environment India News

Rain brings Mumbai to its knees again

Of this, 210 mm fell between 2.30 am and 4 am. Between 8.30 am and 5.30 am, Santacruz received 14.1 mm of rain…reports Asian Lite News

Life was thrown out of gear on Monday in Mumbai as it received over 300 millimetres of rain within 24 hours till Monday morning — its first heavy rainfall of the season, with traffic chaos and train cancellations across the city. Schools were closed and the government issued an advisory urging people to avoid unnecessary travel.

A 72-year-old woman was killed in a short-circuit incident reported in Santacruz, while another woman was severely injured in Belapur while attempting to board an overcrowded train on the Harbour Line.

The downpour that began around Sunday midnight intensified during the early Monday with Indian Meteorology Department’s (IMD) Santacruz observatory recording 268 mm of rainfall in 24 hours ending at 8.25 am on Monday — the highest single-day rainfall for July since 2019.

Of this, 210 mm fell between 2.30 am and 4 am. Between 8.30 am and 5.30 am, Santacruz received 14.1 mm of rain.

The 268 mm recorded at Santacruz on Monday marked the second-highest single-day July rainfall in a decade. The highest was 375.2 mm on July 2, 2019, with the all-time record of 944.2 mm during the infamous July 26, 2005 deluge.

IMD’s coastal observatory at Colaba recorded 84 mm rain by 8.25 am on Monday, with an additional 101.8 mm between 8.30 am and 5.30 am. The weather department defines very heavy rainfall as 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within a 24-hour period.

Due to the intensified rainfall from midnight on Monday, a yellow alert declared by the IMD for Mumbai in its five-day forecast issued Sunday, was upgraded to a “red alert” until 8.30 am on Tuesday. “The sudden intense rainfall was due to an offshore trough that intensified after 12.30 am on July 8, ” said an IMD official on Monday.

Flash floods were reported in multiple areas Monday, with suburban pockets receiving over 300 mm rainfall. As per BMC’s Automatic Weather System, Powai recorded 330 mm, followed by Bhandup at 315 mm, Andheri (East) at 253 mm, Bandra Kurla Complex at 232 mm, and Chembur at 226 mm. Other parts of Mumbai Metropolitan Region recorded comparatively lower rainfall.

The heavy rainfall severely impacted railway services, with services on the Harbour and Central Lines temporarily halted and delays of up to 40-45 minutes on the Western Line. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport cancelled 51 flights by Monday afternoon due to adverse weather conditions.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde posted on X: “…daily life has been disrupted with traffic congestion and railway disruptions. Authorities are working to clear water from tracks and restore normalcy. Emergency services are on high alert. Citizens are advised to venture out only if necessary…”

Traffic snarls were reported across Mumbai, particularly in the western suburbs, where vehicles were stuck on waterlogged roads. Andheri and Malad subways were closed for vehicular movement due to inundation.

While there was a low tide around 7 am on Monday, high tide was reported from 2 pm. The convergence of high tide and heavy rainfall delayed water receding in some areas until around 6 pm.

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UK Consulate Buys 12 Office Units in Mumbai

The sale deed for this transaction was officially registered on May 28, 2024. Remarkably, the diplomatic nature of the acquisition exempts it from stamp duty under the Maharashtra Stamp Act 1958, with only a nominal ₹100 fee paid…reports Asian Lite News

Documents accessed by Propstack reveal that the Office of the Secretary of State for Foreign Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has made a significant investment in Mumbai’s real estate sector. The UK Consulate has purchased 12 office units from Macrotech Developers Ltd, operating under the Lodha brand, in the prestigious One Lodha Place project located in Lower Parel. The transaction, valued at ₹101.2 crore, marks a notable move in the city’s commercial property market.

According to the documents, the acquired office spaces are situated on the 19th floor of One Lodha Place, spanning an impressive total area of 14,883 sq ft (carpet area). Additionally, the property includes 14 dedicated parking spaces, enhancing its appeal as a prime business location.

The sale deed for this transaction was officially registered on May 28, 2024. Remarkably, the diplomatic nature of the acquisition exempts it from stamp duty under the Maharashtra Stamp Act 1958, with only a nominal ₹100 fee paid.

Further details from the attached documents reveal that the British High Commission intends to utilize the newly acquired office space for relocating the British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai, from its current premises at Naman Chambers in Bandra East.

In response to inquiries, both Lodha Group and the British High Commission have been contacted for comments, and updates will be provided as soon as responses are received.

Strategically positioned on Senapati Bapat Marg in Lower Parel, One Lodha Place enjoys a prime location within Mumbai’s bustling business district. Its proximity to key transportation hubs, including the Worli Sea Link, Lower Parel station, and Mahalaxmi station, underscores its accessibility and desirability for businesses and organizations alike, as highlighted on the real estate company’s website.

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INDIA 2024 India News Politics

ED ‘eye’ on Sena Vs Sena battle in Mumbai North West

Barely hours after the SS(UBT) named Amol Kirtikar as MVA nominee, the ED popped a notice on him for his alleged role in BMC’s ‘khichdi scam’, a report by Quaid Najmi…reports Asian Lite News

The coveted Mumbai North West (MNW) Lok Sabha constituency is a fight between the two rival Senas – Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena and ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) – and the dreaded Enforcement Directorate (ED) lurking around the candidates of both parties.

Barely hours after the SS(UBT) named Amol Kirtikar as Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) nominee for the seat, the ED popped a notice on him for his alleged role in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)’s ‘khichdi scam’.

In fact, ruling Shiv Sena’s sitting MP Gajanan Kirtikar – father of Amol G. Kirtikar – even publicly expressed his strong displeasure on the purported ‘misuse’ of the ED, embarrassing the Mahayuti allies.

As Amol Kirtikar complied with the ED notice and went for a probe, a prominent SS(UBT) leader Ravindra D Waikar suddenly defected to the Shiv Sena – and was rewarded with a LS ticket.

Just a few days ago, Waikar let the cat out of the bag when quizzed on his abrupt party-hopping, as he morosely replied, “I had only two avenues – go to jail, or change sides… Besides, there was no support from my party…”

Leaving the Mahayuti stunned, Waikar said that he and his wife were falsely implicated in the alleged luxury hotel scam in Jogeshwari, in which he is accused of flouting BMC agreements as the plot was reserved for a public park.

Accordingly, he decided to join the Shiv Sena and was named a Mahayuti candidate for MNW LS seat, against Amol G. Kirtikar the son of his close associate Gajanan Kirtikar.

The INDIA-MVA leaders beat the Mahayuti-BJP-NDA allies with Waikar’s statement, saying this confirms the Opposition parties’ allegations on how the ED, CBI, IT, and other central investigation agencies are being used to target political opponents.

The MNW seat created upheaval even elsewhere with former Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam dumping the party to join Shiv Sena after he was denied a ticket, even as Shinde briefly toyed with the idea of fielding Bollywood actor Govinda.

For the present poll scenario, Shinde managed to mollify Nirupam and deployed Govinda – an ex-Congress MP – to attract crowds to the party’s rallies.

The MNW seat comprises six Assembly segments, of which three are held by the BJP, one by Shiv Sena and two by Shiv Sena (UBT).

They are: BJP’s Goregaon (MLA Vidya Thakur), Versova (MLA Bharati Lavekar) and Andheri West (MLA Ameet Satam); Shiv Sena’s (MLA Ravindra D. Waikar, now the LS candidate); and SS(UBT)’s Dindoshi (MLA Sunil Prabhu) and Andheri East (MLA Rutuja Latke).

Since it came into existence in 1967, the MNW has thrown up several stalwarts including four Union ministers – HR Gokhale, Ram Jethmalani, Sunil Dutt and Gurudas Kamat (all deceased) – at various points in different governments at the Centre.

With his secular image, Dutt nurtured MNW for five terms to make it a Congress bastion, and after his passing in 2005, his daughter Priya Dutt was elected for one term in a bypoll.

On just three occasions, MNW constituency repeated the same party/candidate – Janata Party’s Jethmalani (1977 and 1980), (undivided) Shiv Sena’s Madhukar Sarpotdar (1996 and 1998), Shiv Sena’s Gajanan Kirtikar (2014 and 2019), making it an unpredictable seat for most parties.

The cosmopolitan population in the region comprises Marathis, Gujaratis, North Indians, Rajasthanis, Dalits, Muslims, Christians, Parsis, besides the working classes from outside Maharashtra.

There is a generous dollop of glamour, corporate honchos, film and television stars sprinkled in Versova, Andheri, Goregaon, Dindoshi; the world-famous Film City nestles here, plus there is a good railway, road, metro-rail infrastructure and connectivity.

Congress slams BJP for ‘washing machine’ tactic

The Congress has accused the BJP of using its “washing machine” tactic to absorb leaders facing anti-corruption probes in Maharashtra. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh highlighted the cases of Ravindra Waikar, Yamini Jadhav, and Narayan Rane, who joined the ruling alliance despite facing investigations. Ramesh posed several questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his rallies in the state.

Ramesh criticized the BJP for diluting the rights of Adivasis in Maharashtra, referencing the Forest Rights Act of 2006, which the Congress introduced to grant legal rights to tribal communities. He claimed that the Forest Conservation Amendment Act introduced by PM Modi last year has undermined these rights, stripping local communities of their consent and statutory requirements for forest clearance. According to Ramesh, this move aims to benefit corporate interests.

He presented data showing the Mahayuti government’s failure to fully implement the Forest Rights Act, depriving millions of Adivasis of their benefits. Only 52% of the individual claims filed have been granted, and land titles distributed cover merely 23.5% of the eligible area for community rights. Ramesh questioned why the BJP and its allies have neglected Adivasis’ forest rights in Maharashtra.

Ramesh also highlighted the BJP’s alleged admission of using its “washing machine” to integrate leaders facing corruption allegations. Kirit Somaiya, a former BJP MP, had accused Waikar, Jadhav, and Rane of corruption. These leaders subsequently joined the Mahayuti alliance, and Somaiya commented on their switch by saying, “Everyone deserves a chance. If the shirt gets stained, then you wash it and wear it again.” Ramesh noted that Waikar himself mentioned having two options with Thackeray’s Shiv Sena: switch parties or face jail.

Ramesh further criticized the BJP for the increase in construction worker deaths in Maharashtra since 2021, citing a three-fold rise. He accused the BJP of neglecting safety regulations established by the Congress in 2007 under the Maharashtra Building and Other Construction Workers’ Rules. He pointed to the August 2023 incident where 13 laborers died on the Samruddhi Expressway in Thane, with families receiving delayed compensation after extensive paperwork.

The Congress leader also emphasized the party’s commitment to protecting unorganized workers’ rights, promising a national minimum wage of Rs 400 per day in their Nyay Patra. Ramesh urged the prime minister to address these critical issues, challenging him to outline his vision for the safety and security of construction workers.

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India News Politics

Sena vs Sena in 3 Mumbai LS seats  

Congress and Shiv Sena have traditionally been political opponents in Mumbai till 2019…reports Asian Lite News

Battle lines have been drawn in six parliamentary constituencies in Mumbai, where Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Uddhav Thackeray led outfit will battle it out in three seats.

While two seats will witness fights between the traditional rivals – the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, in one seat the Shiv Sena (UBT) and BJP will fight it out.

The six constituencies in Mumbai are Mumbai South, Mumbai South-Central, Mumbai North, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-West. These are among the 13 seats in Maharashtra that will go to polls in the fifth and final phase on May 20.

Mumbai South, Mumbai South-Central and Mumbai North-West will see a fight between the two Senas, while Mumbai North-East will be a BJP versus Shiv Sena (UBT) face-off.

In Mumbai South, sitting MP Arvind Sawant of the Uddhav Thackeray will take on Yamini Jadhav of the Shinde-led Sena. Jadhav represents the Byculla assembly constituency in Mumbai.

Sena (UBT) leader Anil Desai is pitted against Rahul Shewale of the Shinde-led Sena in Mumbai South-Central. While Desai was a Rajya Sabha member till recently, Shewale is the sitting Lok Sabha member.

Amol Kirtikar of the Thackeray camp will take on Ravindra Waikar of the ruling Sena in Mumbai North-West. Waikar who was earlier with the Sena (UBT), joined the Shinde camp recently. He currently represents Jogeshwari East assembly constituency in Mumbai.

Congress MLA Varsha Gaikwad, who is the party’s Mumbai unit president will fight it out against noted lawyer Ujjwal Nikam fielded by the BJP in Mumbai North-Central, while Union minister and BJP veteran Piyush Goyal will take on Bhushan Patil of the Congress in Mumbai North. While Gaikwad represents the Dharavi assembly segment in Mumbai, Goyal is a Rajya Sabha member.

In Mumbai North-East, BJP’s Mihir Kotecha will fight against Sena UBT’s Sanjay Dina Patil. Kotecha is the MLA from Mulund assembly constituency in Mumbai.

After filing her nomination form, Gaikwad called on Uddhav Thackeray, who promised his support to her, saying she will be sent to Delhi as an MP. It will be for the first time that Thackeray will vote for a Congress candidate as his residence in Bandra comes under the Mumbai North-Central constituency.

Congress and Shiv Sena have traditionally been political opponents in Mumbai till 2019.

“Despite being opponents, the two parties have been in tactical understanding on many occasions to get positions of power, especially in the Mumbai civic body,” senior journalist Prakash Akolkar said.

As per the picture emerging on ground, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress cadre have gelled well on the ground.

Gaikwad visited all Shiv Sena shakhas in Mumbai North-Central constituency, seeking “blessings” of the Uddhav Thackeray-led cadre and in turn promising to be always available to them and fight for issues related to the city. She was warmly welcomed everywhere.

Since 2014, the Congress has lost all the Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai, while in the 2019 assembly elections, it could win only five of the 36 seats.

With former Mumbai South MP Milind Deora defecting to the Shiv Sena and former Mumbai North-Central MP Priya Dutt declining to contest again, the Congress had no candidates to field.

Party leader Sanjay Nirupam was shown the door for his criticism of the Congress leadership on its inability to get equal seat-sharing in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

This will be the first major electoral test after the political realignment that emerged in 2019. Earlier, the Andheri East assembly byelection took place, but Shinde-led Sena or the BJP did not field any candidate.

The BJP has replaced all three sitting MPs while Shinde’s Shiv Sena has renominated only Rahul Shewale (Mumbai South-Central) and replaced Gajanan Kirtikar in Mumbai North-West. Mumbai is divided into Mumbai city and Mumbai suburban district.

Mumbai South and Mumbai South-Central constituencies are in Mumbai city, while rest of the constituencies are in Mumbai suburban. The nomination process is underway. Last date of filing of nominations is May 3. Mumbai city has over 24 lakh voters, while suburban has 74 lakh voters.

BJP will contest Palghar seat, says Fadnavis

Deputy Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena have arrived at an understanding over the Palghar Lok Sabha seat, adding the BJP will contest the Parliamentary constituency.

Fadnavis said this at the launch of NDTV Marathi channel here on the occasion of Maharashtra Day. He further said the BJP will announce the party’s nominee for the Palghar seat on Thursday. The last date for filing nominations is on May 3, while the polling is slated for May 20.

Already the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi nominee and Boisar legislator Rajesh Patil has filed his nomination for Palghar seat. Currently, the Palghar seat is represented by Rajendra Gavit who was elected in the 2019 elections as the Shiv Sena (undivided) candidate.

Meanwhile, Fadnavis also said that the BJP and Shiv Sena held several rounds of talks over Palghar LS seat, Thane and Nashik constituencies, as both were aggressively making pitches for these seats.

“However, now, there is a unanimous decision whereby BJP will contest Palghar seat while Shiv Sena gets Thane, Nashik and Mumbai South,” he added. On the subject of the party fielding new candidates, he said it had changed candidates in seven-eight constituencies across the state. The Deputy Maharashtra Chief Minister said that the party takes decisions according to the prevailing situation.

“Every election is different. We have to think about who would be the right candidate in a changed situation, and considering that, the party fields the candidates,” the BJP leader said.

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Mumbai’s Misery Continues

LSG moved to the third spot in the IPL 2024 points table, leapfrogging CSK while MI are ninth in points table with just 3 wins in 10 matches….reports Asian Lite News

After restricting Mumbai Indians to paltry 144, Lucknow Super Giants huffed and puffed to victory in a rather dull match of the IPL 2024 so far.

Marcus Stoinis was the star of the day as his all-round performance of 62 with the bat and 1 for 19 with the ball helped LSG register a crucial four-wicket win over MI at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, here on Tuesday.

In the chase of below par score of 145 at the slow wicket, Nuwan Thushara landed an early strike, dismissing Arshin Kulkarni for the golden duck. KL Rahul dropped the anchor role as he was 5 off 13 after three overs and already set up to stay there till the end, giving up the responsibility of making a play to the other batters.

Thushara and Gerald Coetzee had given KL Rahul two freebies down leg side and he was unable to connect with either of them. But Coetzee was smoked for 15-runs in the second over courtesy of back-to-back boundaries from Stoinis.

LSG lost skipper Rahul on 28 to a wonderful catch by Mohammad Nabi off Hardik Pandya which pulled Mumbai back in the game as both added 58 off 40 deliveries for the second wicket.

Stoinis was looking good and Deepak Hooda was decent in the four balls he had faced. It was an uphill task for MI as they needed a few wickets to script a turn around on a wicket which looked slightly sluggish.

Stoinis was impressive with another fifty, but LSG stumbled toward the end, taking the game until the last over. The experience of Nicholas Pooran came in handy as the home team successfully went past the finish line with 4 balls to spare.

LSG moved to the third spot in the IPL 2024 points table, leapfrogging CSK while MI are ninth in points table with just 3 wins in 10 matches.

Even if MI win their remaining 4 matches, they might not be able to reach the playoffs.

Earlier, Nehal Wadhera’s 46 and Tim David’s late fire of 35 propelled Mumbai Indians to 144/7.

Lucknow came with a different bowling plan in the Powerplay overs against Mumbai, and it paid off well as Marcus Stoinis in his second over of the spell got rid of dangerous Suryakumar Yadav on the score of 10.

Before that Mohsin Khan dismissed skipper Rohit Sharma for four runs in the second over of the inning.

Tilak Varma got run out in the chaos of an lbw appeal by Ravi Bishnoi guiding the backward point, as he forgot about where the ball was. Then walked skipper Hardik Pandya in the crease. He got out for a first-ball duck. Mumbai were in serious trouble with 28 for 4 on the scoreboard in the powerplay.

Mayank Yadav, on return from injury bowled the seventh over of the innings and was a fairly long first over and got smoked for eight runs in the over. And once the field spread and LSG went to their spinners, it became harder to score boundaries for MI.

Five boundaries in eight overs and Kishan trying to go for more was out caught for 32 off 36. Ravi Bishnoi, nominally a leg spinner, took out another left-hander with his googly. Nehal Wadhera and Ishan Kishan added run-up ball 53 for the fifth wicket.

In the midst of a difficult time for Mumbai, Nehal Wadhera was leading Mumbai forward. He finished on 46 off 41. It was the kind of innings no batter wanted to play in T20s. Much of his acceleration was the result of him taking on Mayank. Their head-to-head was 21 off 12 with two fours and two sixes.

Mayank left the field due to injury with the figure of 1 for 31 in 3.1 overs. However, the nature of the injury is still unknown.

Brief score:

Mumbai Indians 144 for 7 in 20 overs (Nehal Wadhera 46, Tim David 35; Mohsin Khan 2-36, Naveen-ul-Haq 1-15) lost to Lucknow Super Giants 145 for 6 in 19.2 overs (Marcus Stoinis 62, KL Rahul 28; Hardik Pandya 2-28, Nuwan Thushara 1-30) by four wickets.

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Business Economy India News

Mumbai Surpasses Beijing in Billionaire Count

India’s economic prowess was further underscored by the remarkable surge in its billionaire population….reports Asian Lite News

Mumbai has surpassed Beijing to emerge as Asia’s new billionaire capital while India has overtaken Germany to become the third-ranked country globally with 271 billionaires, according to the latest Hurun Research Institute report.

“Mumbai was the fastest-growing billionaire capital in the world, adding 26 in the year and taking it to third in the world and Asia’s billionaire capital. New Delhi broke into the Top 10 for the first time,” the report states.

India’s economic prowess was further underscored by the remarkable surge in its billionaire population. The country added a staggering 94 new billionaires, the highest of any nation except the United States, bringing the total to 271 ultra-high-net-worth individuals. This surge, the highest since 2013, is a testament to the soaring confidence in the Indian economy, as noted by Rupert Hoogewerf, the institute’s chairman and chief researcher.

Indian billionaires’ cumulative wealth reached US$1 trillion, surpassing China’s average wealth per billionaire (US$3.2 billion vs US$3.8 billion), the 2024 Hurun Global Rich List report states.

The report highlights that industry-wise the pharmaceutical sector leads the pack with 39 billionaires, followed by the automobile and auto components industry (27), and the chemicals sector (24).

Collectively, the wealth of Indian billionaires amounts to a phenomenal $1 trillion, accounting for 7 per cent of the global billionaire wealth, reflecting the country’s substantial economic influence.

The rise of startups, particularly in the booming Artificial Intelligence (AI) space, is a significant contributor as well. This trend aligns with the global focus on AI, which emerged as the biggest driver of wealth creation, generating over half of all new wealth this year.

With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing focus on innovation, India is well-positioned to capitalise on this AI revolution, potentially fuelling the creation of even more billionaires in the coming years, the report added.

Leading the Indian billionaire list is Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, with a staggering net worth of $115 billion. Closely following is Gautam Adani, the founder of the Adani Group energy conglomerate, with assets valued at $86 billion, marking a $33 billion surge in wealth attributed to a rally in his companies’ shares.

While India’s billionaire population soared, China witnessed a decline, with the report stating, “China had a bad year. HK was down 20 per cent, Shenzhen down 19 per cent, and Shanghai down 7 per cent.”

This downturn can be attributed to the crisis in the country’s real estate and volatile stock market problems in the renewable energy sectors.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs

Baro Market’s Affordable Art Show Returns to Mumbai

The exhibition will showcase 13 Thangkas.  An expert from Leh will be present to unravel the significance and stories behind these captivating artworks…reports Asian Lite News

The Baro Market’s Affordable Art Show in Mumbai has become an annual exhibition to facilitate buyers to purchase art at affordable prices.

The art showcased isn’t limited only to new and upcoming artists but also the established names.

This year’s show will take place from March 1 to 3 at Method in Juhu, Mumbai. More than 200 paintings have been sourced from established galleries and artists directly from across India.

The art on display, curated by Srila Chatterjee is a mixed bag of several art forms, mediums, genres, and artists. The highlights of this show include ‘Thangka’ art that is native to Ladakh and Sikkim. These artworks have been brought in from Ladakh and emanate the captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist culture and art.

Thangka art is meticulously rendered on cotton or silk appliqué, offering a glimpse into the ancient murals of early Buddhism. Each Thangka, mounted on ornate silk textiles reminiscent of Chinese scroll art, tells a story of Buddha, Buddhist deities, scenes from Buddhist life, or serves as a mandala—a geometric tool for spiritual guidance.

The exhibition will showcase 13 Thangkas.  An expert from Leh will be present to unravel the significance and stories behind these captivating artworks.

In addition to Thangka, the Affordable Art show will also sell art by some well-known names including Amit Ambalal, Rekha Rodwittiya, Chandrashekar Koteshwar, KG Subramanyan, Laxma Goud, Nandan Ghiya, Remen Chopra W. Van Der Vaart. , Jehangir Sabavala, Sumedh Rajendran, Suhas Roy, and Schon Mendes.

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Mumbai’s Valentine’s Day Feasts

Love is in the air, and Mumbai’s culinary scene is abuzz with delectable offerings for your Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re a health-conscious couple seeking guilt-free indulgence, burger aficionados craving a juicy bite, or yearning for an extravagant and romantic experience, the city has something special in store for everyone. 

The Nines: A Culinary Symphony for Two

Unleash the magic of the number nine this Valentine’s Day at The Nines. This avant-garde haven in Juhu transcends dining, transforming it into an experience. Start with a vibrant Strawberry & Citrus Salad or Beetroot & Walnut Salad, then share Basil Pesto Arancini bursting with flavour, or indulge in the Beetroot Hummus with a Greek salad twist. Elevate your evening with King Mushroom & Truffle Flatbread or Chicken Ham & Pepperoni, before diving into Beetroot Risotto or the pan-seared Sea Bass with herb sauce. End on a sweet note with Strawberry Panna Cotta or Pistachio & Raspberry Petit Gateaux – each bite a delicious masterpiece. 

The Bluebop Cafe: A Love-Struck Soiree with Italian & American Flair

Immerse yourselves in a captivating world of flavours and connections at Bluebop Cafe this Valentine’s Day. Ignite your love story with handcrafted cocktails like Love Struck or Burning Love, then share playful bites like Sweet Potato Guacamole Bites or Peri Peri Chicken Popcorn. Savour the My Heart Pizzas – Love Garden for veggie lovers or Sicilian Chicken for a spicy kick. Dive into Creamy Penne Chicken in Alfredo Sauce or Marry Me Chicken, and don’t miss the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with its delightful accompaniments. End your love-struck soiree with decadent desserts like Strawberry Chocolate Tart or Blush Special Sundae – each spoonful a celebration of your love.

The Pantry – Goodness Delivered: For the Health-Conscious Duo

Embark on a wellness journey of flavours with The Pantry – Goodness Delivered. Their special Valentine’s Day menu features an earthy and sweet vegan beetroot & house-made coconut cream soup, bursting with the goodness of roasted beetroot, zesty ginger, and creamy coconut milk. End your meal on a guilt-free note with their no-bake strawberry layered cheesecake, a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy layers topped with fresh strawberries.

Woodside Inn: Burger Lovers Rejoice

Get ready to sink your teeth into love at Woodside Inn. This Valentine’s Day, they’re adding a vibrant touch to their classic burgers with beetroot buns, made using beet reduction for a beautiful colour and fluffy texture. Don’t miss their red chipotle rice flour and beet reduction chips, served as delectable accompaniments throughout the week of love.

Indulge in Culinary Luxury at Ditas

Treat your significant other to an unforgettable gastronomic experience at Ditas. Their special Valentine’s Day menu is an all-inclusive journey of exquisite flavours. Savour roasted garlic pimento soup or spicy tom yam goong, followed by refreshing salads like arugula & berries or poached pear & beetroot. Choose between delightful small plates like beetroot & avocado tartare or grilled prawn sambal satay, before diving into hearty mains like Thai aromatic red curry or chilli-crusted red snapper. End your romantic rendezvous on a sweet note with their decadent red velvet cheesecake and strawberry mousse. 

Koa: A Vibrant Fiesta of Love

Get ready for a lively and romantic evening at Koa. Their “Sea of Love” Valentine’s Day special features a soulful live saxophone performance to set the mood. Share delectable appetizers like tempura chickpea chaat or crispy thread chicken, indulge in heart-shaped pizzas, and relish refreshing salads like chips and avocado puree or peri chicken & sausages salad. For their main course, choose between charcoal-grilled chicken with Moroccan spices or the vegetarian delight of a filled mushroom pot with crispy fried mushrooms. Conclude your romantic feast with their signature “Under the Sea” Belgium chocolate mousse and a delightful Valentine’s chocolate box.

An Immersive Theatrical Extravaganza at Amazonia

For a truly unique and unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience, step into the Garden of Eden at Amazonia. This immersive theatrical experience takes you on a journey through Adam and Eve’s story, with captivating performances and a delicious set menu. As you indulge in culinary delights, be prepared to be transported to a world of wonder and intrigue.

Embark on a delicious journey of love at Bayroute

Skip the clichés this Valentine’s Day and whisk your love away to the enchanting flavours of the Mediterranean at Bayroute! Their new menu boasts irresistible dishes like melt-in-your-mouth Bakhtiari Kebabs and melt-off-the-bone Lamb Quzi, perfect for sharing amidst a romantic ambience. End with refreshing signature drinks and create unforgettable memories at Bayroute!

A Flavorscape of Love: Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Yazu


This Valentine’s Day, transcend the ordinary and embark on a romantic Asian escapade at Yazu. Let the rich tapestry of flavours transport you, as our chefs weave tradition with a modern flair. Imagine yourselves sharing delectable dishes crafted with authentic ingredients, where tender meats and vibrant veggies tango on your plate. Savour the magic of fresh produce sourced with the highest standards, ensuring an unparalleled culinary experience. At Yazu, every bite promises to be a love story waiting to be savoured, making your Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

The Coconut Boy’s Goan Valentine’s Getaway

The Coconut Boy whisks you away to Goa, its vibrant atmosphere, authentic flavours, and live music setting the stage for a romantic adventure. Their special Valentine’s menu is a love letter written in spices. Dive into the depths of flavour with the traditional Goan chonak fish curry, simmered in fragrant spices and coconut milk. Share playful bites of the intriguing grilled squid stuffed with crab, its ocean freshness bursting with conversation and laughter. Sip on vibrant Vitamin C and Goan Breeze cocktails, their tropical fruits and local spirits, light and refreshing like love itself. As live music serenades you throughout the evening, create memories that will last a lifetime at The Coconut Boy, where your love story unfolds on sand and sunshine. create unforgettable memories at The Coconut Boy.

The ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest at Neuma!

ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest at Neuma, where love isn’t just in the air—it’s a boomerang that multiplies back to you. From February 14th to 18th, we invite you to a week-long ode to love’s many facets. Each day unfolds a new chapter: romance, friendship, music, celebration, and inclusivity. We are excited to offer you the irresistible charm of romance with dishes that stir the heart and set the mood. Chef Hitesh brings the playful start of an Avocado and strawberry salad or the sensuous burst of decadent lobster bisque. Feeling adventurous? Let the fiery punch of Furikake sweet potato or the passionate embrace of sizzling grilled shrimp and enoki mushrooms drizzled in red curry aioli ignite the flames of your palate. Our large plates cater to every mood: the smooth and sensual experience of silky tofu and miso leeks or rotisserie chicken drizzled with sweet and savoury strawberry marmalade. End your night on a cloud of rose petit gateaux or succumb to the seduction of a red velvet cupid, all while sipping on love-themed cocktails like Lovebug, Flirty Fritz, Kiss on the Lips, Potion D’Amour, or the Soulmate Sour. Join us as we reimagine love with our ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest, where love knows no boundaries and every moment is a celebration of life’s greatest gift.

A Symphony of Flavours for Two at one8 Commune

Celebrate your love story with a global culinary adventure at one8 Commune this Valentine’s Day. Virat Kohli’s stylish eatery offers a diverse menu catering to every craving, from vegetarian delights to decadent seafood. Share playful small plates like the vibrant Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata Salad or the intriguing Hoisin braised Tofu. Move on to impressive main courses like the heart-shaped ravioli or the flavorful Strawberry Chili Risotto. End your evening on a sweet note with the signature Love Struck dessert, a symphony of chocolate and mascarpone, or the refreshing Strawberry Entremet. one8 Commune’s ambiance and attentive service provide the perfect setting for a romantic night filled with delicious discoveries. 

Masala Library: A Sophisticated Sweet Treat

Masala Library takes a more refined approach to Valentine’s Day with its specially crafted dessert. Dive into their “Coconut Tres Leches Soaked in Goatcheese Milk,” a luscious combination of textures and flavours. The creamy tres leches, infused with goat cheese milk, provide a unique savoury edge, perfectly balanced by the sweet and tart notes of the passionfruit parfait, raspberry sorbet, and salted caramel. Finally, a dusting of strawberry snow adds a touch of whimsy and completes this luxurious and unforgettable dessert experience. For couples seeking a sophisticated and unique indulgence, Masala Library’s Valentine’s Day offering is sure to impress.

Millo: For the Whimsical Romantics

Love is most definitely in the air at Millo this Valentine’s Day, thanks to their playful and unique cocktail menu. Indulge in the “Love is in the Air,” made with Gin, Maraschino Citrus, Plum and Raspberry for a whimsical burst of flavour, or share the “Love Potion” made with rose-infused vodka and citrus tonic for a refreshing twist. Feeling adventurous? The “Exotic Coco Punch” with Baileys, vodka, and coconut promises a tropical escape, while the “First Kiss” with bourbon, condensed milk, and strawberry offers a comforting sweetness. Whether you’re looking for something light and bubbly or rich and decadent, Millo has a love potion for every heart.

So, what are you waiting for? Mumbai’s restaurants are offering a delectable array of Valentine’s Day specials, catering to every taste and budget. Choose your culinary adventure, make your reservation, and get ready to celebrate love in the most delicious way possible!

ALSO READ-Recipe : Strawberry Cream Dessert

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Food Lite Blogs

Mumbai’s Culinary Scene Elevates with New Dining Experiences

Chef Rahul Akerkar, best known for launching restaurants like Indigo and Qualia, is back with his latest culinary venture, this time in collaboration with Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality….reports Asian Lite News

While in Mumbai, indulge in a delectable dining experience and refreshing beverages at any of these six restaurants.

Café Corra

This year, Café Corra offers a captivating ambiance with its picturesque Bali-themed interior, taking inspiration from the serene and upscale cafes of Bali. The vintage wooden and white decor scheme adds to the cafe’s charm. The restaurant, featuring Continental and Mexican cuisines, serves delectable delights such as Teriyaki Cottage Cheese Skewers, Truffle Arancini, and Activated Charcoal Thai Basil Chicken Dim sums, making it a truly remarkable dining experience.

Where: Shop No 5 Ekdant Building, New Link Rd, Oshiwara, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053

Bustle

Bustle, a rooftop haven, not only serves an array of delightful coffee but is also an ideal spot to unwind with friends and loved ones. Revel in the mesmerizing sunsets from the rooftop, offering a picturesque view of Mumbai’s skyline. As the evening unfolds, the atmosphere transforms into a vibrant setting for enjoying drinks while soaking in the scenic beauty of the Borivali landscape. Whether it’s a cozy coffee gathering or a lively evening, Bustle provides the perfect backdrop for memorable moments.

Where: 7th floor, Tanishq showroom, Vini Elegance, Lokmanya Tilak Rd, Mini Zaveri Bazaar, Mhatre Wadi, Borivali

Bastian

Love Bandra’s Bastian? The good news is that it’s got a second address! Located in Worli, this new outlet is bigger and might we say, more exciting. After being wowed by the part-quaint, part-quirky, but utterly delightful dining space settle in for some serious cocktails at the 28-foot tall hydraulic bar manned by the very amiable John Leese. The best seats in the house are a level up in the PDR section which gives a birds-eye view of the attractive dining space crowned with sublime Papier-mâché chandeliers.

Where: Wadia International Center, Worli.

Ode

Chef Rahul Akerkar, best known for launching restaurants like Indigo and Qualia, is back with his latest culinary venture, this time in collaboration with Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality. Ode is all about familiar, comforting flavours, served with a contemporary spin. The space is designed in warm tones with leather, wood, and stone accents and also features an al fresco dining section. The menu lists an extensive selection of nibbles and sharing plates such as chorizo tostada with smoked cashew queso, eggplant taco, charred prawns, sourdough pasta, pizzas, and desserts like tarte tatin. You also have a choice of wines and craft cocktails.

Where: Raheja Altimus, Gate no. 4, Worli, P.B. Marg. Tel: 09076031111

Aamchee

Helmed by Pinky Chandan Dixit, founder of the iconic Gujarati eatery Soam, Aamchee offers a playful take on flavors that make Mumbai’s food one-of-a-kind. The menu, crafted by Anuradha Medhora of Charoli Foods, lets you savor dishes such as gymkhana corn chowder, Matunga rasam, East Indian waffle chaat, desi potato fries, and other bites. End on a sweet note with the vanilla and hot chocolate sandwich. Pair your meal with refreshing spritzers and sodas.

Where: Soni Building 46, Pandita Ramabai Road, Opp Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Girgaon Chowpatty

Cosy Box

Known as the official food partner of the Cannes Film Festival, the restaurant has just made its Mumbai debut after launching an outpost in Delhi. Bringing its culinary finesse to the city, you can enjoy a mix of Mediterranean, European, Oriental, and modern Indian flavours in a glamorous setting complete with glossy marble, plush seating, and chrome accents. Savour robata grills, mezze, and seafood delicacies, including a flammable Turkish trolley that makes for an interactive experience, and sip on eclectic libations from craft cocktails to barrel-aged whisky.

Where: Unit No. 6 & 7, Cosy Box, One Lodha Place, Senapati Bapat Marg.

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