Former Team India batsman VVS Laxman shared his views on how playing for CSK will keep MS Dhoni going on Star Sports 1 show Cricket Connected: “I think, playing for CSK will keep him going because he’s supremely fit and age is just a number, and especially when someone like MS Dhoni is not only physically fit, but mentally very astute as a captain as a leader he enjoys leading the CSK franchise. He's been very successful doing that and as far as Dhoni’s cricket is concerned, I'm sure you're looking forward to watch him play in the IPL. Not only this IPL, he will probably play in the next couple of IPLs, and then we will take a call about his future as a cricketer. But I think MS Dhoni will be very clear, as far as his plans are concerned, I'm sure he must have communicated that with Virat Kohli, Ravi Shastri immediately after the 2019 World Cup in England. The new selection committee will have to sit down with MS Dhoni and understand his future, as far as Indian cricket is concerned. But MS Dhoni will continue to play for CSK and do well for CSK.”

VVS Laxman also went on to share his views about Virat Kohli’s intensity while playing and said, “I really admire the intensity Virat Kohli brings to the game because when he started off in 2010-11 against the West Indies in which I played with him, you could see that he was taking his game to the next level, with every season he just kept on getting better. I was really worried about whether this intensity would fade out eventually because before each and every match, even in his warm- ups his high intensity was visible and I thought that will burn-out, but not even in a single over ever did we see him losing the intensity which is commendable.”

Former opening batsman Gautam Gambhir also spoke about the future of MS Dhoni: “If the IPL does not happen this year, then it will become very difficult for MS Dhoni to make a comeback. On what basis can he be selected since he’s not been playing for the last one or one and a half year. The apt replacement for Dhoni could be KL Rahul. Ever since he has donned the ’keeper’s gloves in white-ball cricket, I’ve seen his performance, both batting and ’keeping. Obviously his keeping is not as good as Dhoni’s, but if you are looking at T20 cricket, Rahul’s a utility player, can keep and bat at No. 3 or 4. If the IPL does not happen, then MS Dhoni’s chances for a comeback look dim. Ultimately, you are representing India, so whoever dishes out the best performance and can win the match for India should play for the team. As far as his retirement plans go by, that’s his personal choice.”

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VVS Laxman shares his views on players being part of IPL on Star Sports Hindi show Cricket Connected: “If you’re friendly with any Indian player it doesn’t mean that you are getting IPL contract. As a mentor, I’m on the auction table and we select players, those international players that have played exceptionally well for their country and can add value to the franchise. Friendship with any Indian player doesn’t ensure entry into the IPL.”

Former Cricketer VVS Laxman shared his views on IPL being held before the 2020 ICC T20 World Cup on Star Sports 1 show Cricket Connected and said, “I think some of the cricket boards will be encouraging the fact that IPL is a big tournament, and everyone acknowledges that. And just before the World Cup it will set the tone for a hectic cricket season. But I just hope that everything is normal, and no one is in danger. And once that happens, I am sure the IPL should kick off the cricket calendar.

VVS Laxman, former Indian cricketer, did not take too well with what ex Australian skipper Michael Clarke's comment of 'being nice to Indian players gets you an IPL spot.' VVS Laxman explained what it takes to get a contract in IPL as well as other topics as the IPL 2020 possibility before the T20 World Cup and more. 

Former Cricketer VVS Laxman sharing his thoughts on Michael Clarke’s comment on being nice to team India doesn’t get you an IPL contract exclusively on Star Sports show Cricket Connected, he said, “Just by being nice to someone doesn’t get you a place in IPL. Any franchise will look at the player’s caliber and value add to the team, which gives them desired results by winning matches/tournaments. These are the kind of players who get IPL contracts. So just being nice to someone will not earn you a spot in the IPL.”

Former Cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth reacts to Michael Clarke exclusively on Star Sports show Cricket Connected, he said, “You do not win matches just by sledging. Aussie’s loss is a loss, his statement was ridiculous I would say. If you ask Nasser Hussain or Sir Vivian Richards who are experienced players, you can never score runs or get wickets through sledging. You need to play good cricket and showcase determination; you need to bowl well to get wickets and bat well to achieve targets. Sledging cannot help in any way according to my opinion”

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One of the most successful teams in the history of the Indian Premier League, people have often questioned what sets Chennai Super Kings apart and opener Murali Vijay feels the legends in the unit over the years have made it one of the best dressing rooms in the world.

"CSK is a very very special team. The kind of players, who came aboard right from the first auction, you name it, they are legends of world cricket," Vijay was quoted as saying by the CSK website.

"It was a great honour for us youngsters to step into the dressing room and rub shoulders with some of the legends. You get to learn a lot of things by watching them and being around them," he said.

While Vijay became a Test specialist later in his career, he started off as an explosive batsman and feels that the format suited him when the IPL started back in 2008.

"Twenty20 was a new format in 2008/09, and I guess my game was suited for white ball cricket when I started. I kind of enjoyed it when the opportunity came to me. I was ready up and going," he said.

Vijay said that the bonhomie in the team made it a joy to perform and get applauded by the legends in the unit.

"The team atmosphere was such that you want to contribute because everyone plays with such energy and intensity. The competition was very high," he pointed.

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The love and loyalty of the fans will never let him leave Royal Challengers Bangalore till the time he is playing IPL, skipper Virat Kohli said on Friday. RCB have reached the IPL final thrice but have not gone on to win the trophy. During a live session on Instagram with former South African captain and RCB teammate AB de Villiers, Kohli said winning the tournament remains the goal but he would not leave the team irrespective of the results. "It has been such an amazing journey. It is always going to be our dream, winning the IPL together. There is no scenario where I could think of leaving the team ever.

"You can feel emotional about the season not going well but till the time I am playing IPL, I am never leaving this team. The fans, their loyalty has been amazing," said the India skipper. Responding to Kohli's feelings towards RCB, De Villiers too acknowledged the support of fans over the past nine years. Kohli, on the other hand, has been with RCB since 2008.

"Same for me. I never want to leave RCB but to do that I got to keep scoring runs. I am not the captain you see," said the South African in jest. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the "indefinite" suspension of the 13th IPL, which was supposed to start last month but Kohli said he is still hopeful of the cash-rich event happening at some stage. "We have no clarity at this moment but I am optimistic that at some stage we will have something," he said.

Both Kohli and de Villiers also recalled their early days in international cricket and their growth as cricketers and friends. Kohli said at times, the youngsters coming in have too much regard for the "system" and he wants to see them break the norm. "I want to see youngsters coming in scoring 500-600 runs. I want people to break the norm. Sometimes I feel people have too much regard for the system in sport. When you break the shackles, you do something special."

Kohli also acknowledged contribution of Mark Boucher, Gary Kirsten and Duncan Fletcher early on in his international career. "Gary always gave me positive feedback. Boucher told me in 2008 to improve my game against the short ball. He had the vision. Then Fletcher, he had a keen eye for the game. So many people who have contributed (to my growth)," said Kohli.

De Villiers picked the 119 at Wankhede in the 2015 series decider as his best knock against India. Kohli picked the 119 he scored in Johannesburg Test in 2013. "I was always really motivated to win the series after 2-2 . I was incredibly motivated to do something special," de Villiers said. They also picked their combined South Africa and India ODI team. It included Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ab de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, M S Dhoni (captain), Yuvraj Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dale Steyn, Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada.

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Royal Challengers Bangalore teammates AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli have put up equipment -- that were used during their historic partnership against Gujarat Lions in 2016 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) -- on auction in order to raise funds for the fight against coronavirus pandemic.

de Villiers on Monday took to social media to upload images of the signed equipment and announced all the proceeds will go to both the countries in their respective fights against the ongoing crisis.

The duo struck the highest-ever partnership in the history of the tournament when they put together 229 runs against Gujarat in 2016 IPL. Both the players slammed respective centuries during the course of the historic partnership.

"Cricket has given me many incredible memories -- and among the most precious stands the partnership with Virat Kohli, playing for RCB against Gujarat Lions in 2016," de Villiers wrote on his Instagram account.

"Everything clicked on what was an unforgettable night in the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium were going crazy and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 off 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs.

"Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by COVID-19 pandemic and Virat and I would like to help the people in need, people struggling to put food on the table.

"So we are putting some items from that special day in 2016 and creating one unique auction item. All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in South Africa and India," he added.

Kohli also used the repost option to share de Villiers' post onto his Instagram account for his followers to see and take part in the auction as well.

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The lengthy Coronavirus-virus-caused lockdown has left many sportspersons restless, but Mumbai and India cricketer Dhawal Kulkarni has reason to be happy. Apart from an hour-long training schedule laid out by his Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians, Dhawal is dedicating the entire day to his infant daughter, Nitara.

"The lockdown has its pros and cons. I've been injured since last December, so I was itching to get on the field. I was looking forward to playing for MI in the IPL, but unfortunately no cricket can take place at this moment. However, I'm fortunate to be able to spend so much time with my daughter. She was born on January 21 and it's great to see her grow.

"I enjoy playing with her, changing her diapers. I would've missed all this if the cricket season was on. Since no outsider is allowed in our housing society, I'm helping my wife [Shraddha] with household chores," Dhawal, who has played 12 ODIs and two T20Is, told mid-day.

"When Nitara wakes up, I take her to the balcony. I just try and be around her as much as possible," he added.

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Kolkata Knight Riders and West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell said that he gets the "most goosebumps" while playing cricket when he is playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Russell would have been in the thick of the 2020 season of the IPL at this time had it not been for the coronavirus pandemic forcing the postponement of the T20 league.

"Let me confess something. IPL is where I get the most goosebumps when I am playing cricket. I get that in the CPL (Caribbean Premier League) as well, but when it comes to playing in the IPL, especially at Eden Gardens, there is no comparison to that crowd," Russell said in an interview published on KKR's official website www.kkr.in.

"When I walk out before facing a ball, I have goosebumps all over me because of the welcome that I get. That's pure love, and yes it puts pressure on me. But it's a good kind of pressure.

"When Kolkata needs 12 or 13 runs per over, with only 5 overs to go -- I love those moments, and the crowd really allows me to do what I need to do. I get a feeling they are telling me: 'Listen, we have got your back, so just go out and do your business.

"If everyone was sad, and there was no noise, no entrance, that would maybe make me feel the pressure more. But I know even if I fail two games straight, when I come out to bat for the third game, it is the same deafening reaction I will get from the crowd. It's always a welcoming thing."

The 32-year-old Jamaican said that whenever his time with KKR ends, he would like to have an emotional farewell at the Eden Gardens.

"Just like players in big (football) leagues like English Premier League, or the Basketball guys (at NBA) retiring from the sport say 'okay, this is my last game' and they wave goodbye to the crowd -- I imagine I would love to be at KKR until that moment in my career," said Russell.

"I'd say, �Listen, Shah Rukh (KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan), all the KKR staff, everyone. This will be my last IPL and the last home game playing in Kolkata.' It would be such an emotional moment.

"I sometimes watch videos and I see footballers crying and I'm wondering if I would actually cry, but that's the special thing about playing at a club for so long and getting so attached," he said.

Russell also said that he hopes that KKR can win a third title this season. "You know someday you're going to go out. I've been at KKR for 6 seasons now and I enjoy every bit -- getting the MVP award and all is good, but I want more. I really need that cup as well, and I am really hoping that we can have the IPL this year, so we can become the Champions," he said.

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Mahi Malini Pujari says initially she would avoid interacting with guests, but has now grown more confident

Last year, restaurant manager Josein Fernanda found herself in a tough spot when a colleague spotted a bodice and a bunch of padded bras in her bag while they were working on a cruise liner in Goa, where she was working as a manager. The 44-year-old, born a boy in Mumbai's Lamington Road area, says she has always felt like a girl and would clandestinely cross-dress. But, it was a secret that Fernanda had zealously guarded until then. "My boss called me and said, 'I don't want this news to leak. So stop indulging in this.' Well into my 40s, I had reached a point where I couldn't conform to society anymore. There was an overwhelming sense to come out of the closet," she says. Fernanda resigned from the job and returned to Mumbai, liberated but uncertain about what the future held.

Shonali Mude, a former runner-up at Miss Trans Queen 2017 joined in January this year. Mude, who might have in another gender made it as a model or an actor, says jobs for transgender are limited. Having gone to auditions at fashion weeks, Mude says she had no luck. She now works as a floor attendant

Being in the public eye
When we meet Fernanda on a weekday afternoon at Third eye Cafe, located on the ground floor of Palm Galleria Mall, Navi Mumbai, she is sitting near the bar with her laptop. The wall facing her reads, 'Be the Change You Want to See'. Wearing a black blazer with slim fit pants and glinting earrings, Fernanda - formerly known as Innocento - has finally embraced change. She chanced upon the cafe while browsing through YouTube, and got in touch with the owners. She now proudly identifies herself as a woman. Along with her, five other trans-women found their lives transformed when were hired as staffers at the restaurant. The cafe currently has six transgender employees, five of whom work as table attendants, while one works as the manager. The restaurant employs around 20 persons.

Josein Fernanda - formerly known as Innocento - finally came out of the closet on learning of this job in January

"As the name suggests, the restaurant was launched with the intention of providing the third gender an opportunity to lead a more respectable life," says co-owner and architect Nimesh Shetty, who started the venture with his partners Prasad Shetty and Nitesh Kandarkar. Nimesh, 27, conceptualised the cafe almost six years ago while working on an architectural thesis around building a community centre for the transgenders. As envisioned, the cafe would be part of the centre. He even conducted a survey to understand whether people would visit a place like this during the thesis. "A lot of people said yes, we accept the third gender. But, are you willing to accept your sister or closest friend as a transgender? That's when people fumbled. This is something we want to work on," says Shetty, who hails from a family of hoteliers.

A typical day
At the restaurant, we see Mahi Malini Pujari, 24, on her feet taking orders and interacting with guests. She's aware of the reaction her presence normally invites - raised eyebrows, unflinching stare, giggles and sometimes nonchalance - but she has learnt to take it all in her stride. In fact, when a bunch of guests arrive, she's the first to guide them to the table and make them comfortable by offering water and exchanging pleasantries. "Initially, I wouldn't utter a word to the guests. I'd take orders and do clearances. I didn't have the confidence to initiate or a hold conversation," says Pujari. The make-up is minimal, just enough to make her look fresh-faced. The 24-year-old worked at Arzoo Foundation, a de-addiction and rehabilitation centre situated at Palghar. Before that she would beg on the streets and in trains. "I joined the hijra community in Bandra after I left home. I didn't even complete my Std X because my parents gave me an ultimatum: 'either I behave like a boy or leave'," she says. Pujari chose the latter. She now lives in an apartment provided by the owners, in Vashi along with the other staff. While the response from the hijra community to her choice of a new career has been fairly encouraging, her family has still not accepted her. "I've let it go," she says.

Know your food
In almost two months' time, Pujari has upped her social skills and also memorised the menu. A part of the credit goes to Fernanda, who the staff treats as 'didi'. "Of course, they need to know how conduct themselves in public. Along with that, she must know the food that we serve here and what goes into its making like the back of their hand. The guests always check with the server first," says Fernanda.

Spread over eleven pages, the menu is extensive with sections separating Italian, Oriental and Indian cuisine. Currently, the restaurant doesn't serve alcohol but it's in the pipeline. We order the beetroot falafel made with parsley pesto, tahini yoghurt and pomegranate for R199. The portion is impressive and scores well on the taste front. "Many come here for the novelty value. But, they'll return only if the food and service is good," says senior staffer Shonali Venkatesh Mude, a former runner-up at Miss Trans Queen 2017, who joined in January this year. Mude, who might have in another gender made it as a model or an actor, says careers as a transgender are limited. Having gone to auditions at fashion weeks or even advertisements, where she'd have to portray a woman, Mude says she had no luck. "I wanted a job where I'd get a steady income."

A group of women sitting next to our table have dropped by from Nerul during lunch hour to celebrate a colleague's birthday. That's the overt reason. The real one is to experience what's it like to be served by transgender staff. "I don't mean to treat them as specimens, but we wanted to experience this. I'm happy that we're finally getting to see them in mainstream jobs. Till now, you would see them begging inside trains," says Divyani Fulzele, who works at an IT firm. When they're about to leave, they compliment Mude and promise to return. This time for the peppy vibe and the food. "Compliments work as a confidence-booster. While I'm more educated and experienced than the rest, there was a trepidation about how it'd pan out. But I like coming to work," smiles Mude, who lives with her partner in Khargar.

Setting an example
In 12 months, owner Nimesh Shetty has interviewed over 600 transgenders for the job by seeking help from NGOs and transgender activist Gouri Sawant. "Actually, it's they who interviewed me because they had more questions than I did. It's natural, because they are leaving their comfort zone and for an all-new territory," he adds. He admits some quit the job within weeks because of adjustment issues. "It's a high-pressure job, where sometimes you clock in 10-12 hours. Some couldn't deal with that," he says.

Shetty feels the challenges of being transgender are different from what gay men or women face. "Here, we are talking about survival. Many get thrown out of the house when they come out." For now, Shetty is hopeful that the restaurant will inspire others to follow suit. "We don't want to capitalise on this as a gimmick. The goal is to inspire."

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Over 200 residents of Owe Camp village (Those rehabilitated due to the Koyna dam construction in 1960) at Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, protested on Thursday from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm, because of several problems they are facing due to the alleged illegal mining in the area for years. They blocked the road for vehicles going towards the mining sites.

They say they have complained to and requested several senior officers from the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) and the Panvel City Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to act against those involved and stop it, but claim no one helped them. One of the residents, Ramchandra Jadhav said, "For past five to six years we have been facing many issues. Our houses have developed several cracks because of the mining.

Also, when we asked the project manager to show us permission for it, we found none had it. We are facing health issues due to the air pollution." He added, "We have sent letters requesting the mining be stopped, to the PCMC commissioner, tehsildar, collector of Raigad district and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board."

PCMC chief Sudhakar Shinde said, "I haven't seen the letters. But we will look into the matter soon." CIDCO PRO Mohan Ninave did not respond to calls and messages.

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Vashi APMC wholesale market. File pic

The Maharashtra government will provide international standard facilities for the Mumbai Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Vashi, one of the biggest agricultural wholesale markets in Asia. State Marketing Minister Subhash Deshmukh made the announcement during a meeting held here today with officials and traders, an official release said. The meeting was organised to know the problems faced by traders in Mumbai APMC.

During the meeting, the minister directed that international standard facilities be provided at this APMC. "The process of declaring the Mumbai APMC as a
national market area has commenced," the minister was quoted as saying in the release. During the meeting, traders in the vegetable and fruit sections told the minister that there was insufficient space in the APMC to carry out the business.

Deshmukh asked them to maintain regular dialogue with the administration and the market committee. He assured that the decision to reconstructing and
redevelop the APMC premises will be taken soon and asked the administrator to appoint an architect for the task.

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Is the new international airport in Navi Mumbai going to become another case of unplanned development? Residents from three villages located 100 metres from the airport have been underwater for the last three days, and up in arms against the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) for its poor planning — ground-levelling work being done by the agency at the airport site has allegedly blocked the drainage and slowed the pace of flowing water, completely inundating Dungi, Rudranagar and Pargaon villages.

Residents of Dungi, Rudranagar and Pargaon villages have been underwater for the last three days

Despite crying hoarse about their plight, CIDCO allegedly didn't send anyone to help the families, or even come up with an alternative for them. Ultimately, residents blocked the main road in protest to get authorities' attention.

Residents said water has gone inside houses of more than 100 people, with none of them being able to stay inside. Shital Patil, a resident, said, "We have not been able to cook for the last two days, or for that matter, even sleep. To make matters worse, my children have caught a cold. What we should do? Is it our problem that rich people want an airport here? It's become a life-and-death situation. If anything happens to my children, CIDCO is responsible."

Another villager, Mahendra Patil, said, "We have been complaining to the authorities about waterlogging since 2013, but they haven't paid attention. This June, I wrote to the tehsildar's office and CIDCO to give shelter to us, but in vain. "We never imagined that we would have to leave our homes and live with others like guests."

Officialspeak
A team has sent to the spot, said CIDCO PRO Mohan Ninave, adding, "We are finding out the reason behind the waterlogging."

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Members of the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) today attacked a government office in adjoining Navi Mumbai, to vent their ire over potholes dotting the 39-km stretch between Sion and Panvel. Accidents on pothole-riddled roads have claimed five lives in adjoining Thane region since last month. The victims lost balance and fell as their two-wheeler hit potholes.

The MNS workers stormed in the office of the Public Works Department (PWD) at Turbhe claiming that the Sion-Panvel road is dotted with potholes and has endangered lives of commuters. The protesters shouted slogans, smashed office equipment, threw chairs, pulled down cupboards and smashed window panes, computer terminals, CPU and printers in the office, police said.

They shouted slogans against public works minister Eknath Shinde of Shiv Sena and demanded registering of offences against those responsible for the "shoddy" condition of roads. The demanded that officials concerned be booked for murder in cases of pothole related deaths. An official of the APMC police station said offences have been registered against the protesters.

"If people are dying due to poor condition of roads, MNS will continue to undertake such actions. If the roads are not repaired, the next target will be Mantralaya, the state secretariat in south Mumbai," Navi Mumbai MNS unit chief Gajanan Kale said.

Reacting to the incident, Raj Thackeray said, "If the government can't see potholes, it will at least see this protest". Meanwhile, a video of the PWD office attack has gone viral on social media.

On Saturday, Maharashtra PWD minister Chandrakant Patil appeared to make light of deaths due to potholes, when he said,
"When you talk about a death in such an accident, you forget that five lakh other people have travelled on the same
road. You can not put the entire blame on the (condition of) roads alone."

The MNS protest came a day after Congress workers in Mumbai counted potholes in suburban Bandra as part of its "Aao Potholes Giney" (Come, let us count potholes) campaign, accusing the Shiv Sena-ruled Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation of not being prepared for the monsoons.

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We spotted a new eatery in the busy commercial hub of Sector 17, Vashi, and the signboard got our attention immediately — Nothing But Chicken, it boldly announced, Now Open. Mental note to self — must check this place out. Soon enough, we find ourselves at the new eatery one afternoon. With just four high chairs, the place is more a take-away, but we choose to have our working lunch at Nothing But Chicken (NBC).

The décor is cheery and functional with doodles of smiling hens giving us company. We also note signage about the restaurant being Halal & ISO 22000 compliant, and most importantly for us, that the meat is fresh, not frozen.

Chicken seekh kabab

Chicken all the way
At the entrance, NBC sports a huge refrigerated display that has raw, pre-cut and in some cases, pre-marinated chicken portions. You can choose from a variety of sausages — jalapeno and cheese, cocktail, classic salami to name a few — or you could buy pre-marinated chicken, grill it yourself and enjoy it in the comfort of your home. Options include chimichuri, peri-peri, Greek yogurt and pepper, cheesy garlic breast among others.

The second display counter has all the ready-to-eat goodies — you can choose from a variety of sandwiches and salads or simply opt for a pilaf or chicken vada pow, desi burger, chicken seekh pow or chicken kheema pow. We order the chicken vada pow (`65), grilled chicken wrap (`105), two pieces of galouti seekh kabab (`34), three pieces of classic seekh kabab (`48), tandoori tangdi (`102) and chicken mayo roll (`105). We realise much later that they billed us for a classic salad (`82), which we were not served. When we point it out to the staff the following day, they are polite and refund the amount and the applicable taxes, too.

Chicken vada pow

Back to our chicken encounter. The order is served one item at a time, heated in front of us in a microwave oven. The presentation is fuss-free and practical. The wrap, kababs and tandoori tangdi are so hot, they are steaming right to the very last bite.

Vada pav vs burger
We are informed that the lone difference between a chicken vada pow and a desi burger is the flavour and spices of the patty.

Tandoori tangdi

The former comes served with a chicken patty in a brown bread pav with cheese dip and schezwan sauce. It is tasty, but since the dish is named after the popular Mumbai snack, we would have preferred the traditional chutneys to go with it. That, we feel, could have been the differentiating element between the desi burger and the chicken vada pow. The patty is mildly spiced and despite being reheated, hasn’t become tough. This, in fact, is true for everything we order.

The tandoori tangdi is well marinated with the classic smoky taste, cooked just right so it is tender. The chicken mayo roll is too bland and sour for our taste. The galouti seekh kabab and the classic seekh kabab taste different, in a good way — the chicken in both offerings is tender and flavourful.

The interiors

The grilled chicken wrap is a whole wheat roti with a masala chicken filling. It has the right balance of spice and is quite filling. By now, we need something to quench our thirst; NBC stocks regular soft drinks and we wash down our meal with a couple of fresh fruit juices on offer. With its reasonably priced, no-frills menu, NBC is ideal for a quick, VFM meal, or to help you cut down your chicken preparation time at home. With courteous staff, they seem to have their act in order. However, given their location, they are likely to face stiff competition from their F&B neighbours.

Time 9 am to 11.30 pm
At Sector 17, Shiv Center, Next to Arneja Corner, Vashi, Navi Mumbai.
Call 8828812200

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On Sunday afternoon, a foot overbridge near the Vashi Police Naka collapsed while a part of it was being removed with a crane. Apart from the driver of the crane, who suffered minor injuries, no one has been affected by the incident. However, the incident led to traffic congestion on the road towards Mumbai coming from Navi Mumbai. 

Following the collapse, the Mumbai Traffic Police immediately took to Twitter to inform commuters to take alternative routes. Though cops claimed that the traffic situation normalised on Sunday night, most vehicles on Monday morning took the alternate route via Airoli to avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Watch the video here...

Locals and traffic officials have alleged the Public Works Department (PWD) didn't inform anyone from the Navi Mumbai traffic police or the Vashi police about the dismantling work on Sunday, and that the crane used for it was of a low capacity.

The incident occurred when PWD engineers were dismantling the bridge. When the team was removing a part with the help of a crane, the device couldn't handle the pressure of the bridge, and thus ended up collapsing on the road. Traffic and disaster officials said the crane being used was of a poor capacity.

PWD should have instead brought in two cranes having a good capacity. mid-day reached out to local PWD officer Kishor Patil, but he remained unavailable for comment. PWD built this bridge two years ago. However, locals said that just six months later, it got damaged after a trailer crashed into it. Nobody was using it after that, but PWD decided to demolish it only this month after one-and-a-half years had passed.

Traffic officials said that prior to the collapse, traffic had already been diverted to the other side of the road, so no one was injured in the incident. PWD officials allegedly failed to inform all officials concerned with the area as well as citizens about the demolition, which is why it took longer to manage the situation.

Many users on social networking site Twitter shared videos of the same on their accounts expressing their frustration and anger over the situation. Here's a look at a few.

As of 6.15am in the morning, the entry into #Mumbai still blocked at Mankhurd. Potential traffic mayhem like yesterday. Took 4 hours to cross Vashi flyover yesterday. @MumbaiPolice not answering phones/WhatsApp. Go via Airoli to enter Mumbai.

— Nikhil Karkare (@n_karkare) October 8, 2018

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Crane clearing work still in progress at mankhurd octroi post.#Trafficupdate @MumbaiPolice huge traffic pile on. Took 1 hr to cross #vashibridge pic.twitter.com/OslI3YdcHV

— Sagar Gholap (@gholapsagar) October 8, 2018

@MumbaiPolice @CPMumbaiPolice I tried calling/sending WhatsApp messages to 8454999999 to know the status of the Mankhurd incident yesterday (got stuck for 4 hours after that). No one picked up/replied. Is the number correct?

— Nikhil Karkare (@n_karkare) October 8, 2018

#TrafficUpdate #mumbai heavy vehicles stopped right before #vashitoll. Collapsed crane clearing still underway, near mankhurd octroi post. Huge traffic pile on pic.twitter.com/ZKS4jmDuj2

— Sagar Gholap (@gholapsagar) October 8, 2018

Also Read: 4 dead in Pune after hoarding falls on vehicles at Mangalwar Peth

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Part of the Navi Mumbai Metro's elevated corridor from Nilje to Kalamboli will look like a replica of Kolkata's iconic Howrah Bridge after the structure gets completely fixed in the next couple of days. With this, the project will also inch closer to completion, as trains for it are scheduled to arrive next month. Central Railway sources said trains would be stopped between 9.50am and 12.50pm today for fixing the cage-like structure.

Deepak Hartalkar, superintending engineer, Navi Mumbai Metro, said, "Work on the elevated corridor is almost complete, 68 per cent of the stations are ready and 50 per cent work on the signal system is complete. Once we finish work on the elevated corridor and tracks, trial runs will start. Then we will approach the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety for clearances." Sources said the Metro would be opened up around March 2020.

The Navi Mumbai Metro project has been divided into four phases. The first one, which approximately costs R3063.63 crore, starts from Belapur railway station and continues till Pendhar. The second phase stretches from Khandeshwar to Taloja MIDC. The third phase will connect Pendhar and Taloja MIDC and the fourth one will provide connectivity between Khandeshwar and Navi Mumbai Airport near Panvel.

Also Read: Navi Mumbai: NMMT Bus Rams Into Empty Train At Sanpada, 3 Hurt

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To aid the construction of the Navi Mumbai airport, the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) had successfully shifted eight villages from the area that will be affected by the project, but forgot to make arrangements for the pets and animals in the village. The NGO, Hands That Heal, has now come forward to give shelter and food to these animals, who had been abandoned by the authorities. They are now relocating all the animals to their shelter in Panvel.

The villages that have been shifted include Chinchpada, Kolhi, Kopar, Ulwe, Varche Ulwe, Pargaon-Dungi, Targhar, Kombadbhuje and Waghivli Vada. From these areas, villagers are to be resettled in Wadghar, Wahal and Kunde Wahal areas. Aishwarya Chaudhary, founder of the NGO, said, "I didn't know about this situation but recently, I came across a post on Facebook mentioning the plight of the animals and birds in this area. My team of 12 has been working for the past four days. Many animals were found dehydrated, starving and homeless."

"We have collected 20 dogs, 13 cats, and three cows. As many trees have been cut down as well; birds have also been displaced. Our shelter is too small to house everyone, and I urge CIDCO and other NGOs to come forward to help this cause," added Chauhan. CIDCO PRO, Priya Ratambe said, "Our health department is finding a solution for the situation and will find an alternative soon."

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T - Demte pursuing European challenge and Ethiopian dream

Daouda keeping goal intact and ambitions alive

Shah Rukh Khan's trademark wit was at work when he commented on Salman Khan's new song, Pyaar karona. SRK's quip came during an interactive Twitter session with fans titled "#asksrk", when a user asked him what he thought of the new song that Salman has released on the coronavirus outbreak, titled "Pyaar karona".

"Bhai kamaal ka Single aur Singer hai..." was Shah Rukh's reply.

Many fans feel SRK was playing a pun using the word "Single" -- which could refer to the song, as well as Salman's bachelor status. "Bhai" could be a reference to Salman, of course, but Shah Rukh could also be addressing the fan.

Among several other interesting questions, SRK was asked who he would love to work with -- Martin Scorsese or Christopher Nolan. His reply, again, was a cryptic one, and many users felt he is hinting at a possible collaboration with Rajkumar Hirani in the future.

Replying to the question about Scorsese or Nolan, Shah Rukh tweeted: "Wow both are awesome and I have met them... but Raju apna sa lagta hai... nahi?"

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Shraddha is definitely one of the finest actress of the industry who can mould herself however needed. One of the most important traits of her is the way the actress is in person, the way she thinks and behaves- is something which is loved by everyone and we have witnessed testimonies of the same quite a few times.

Recently, the actress was asked who about somebody she looks up to, a person who has shaped the way she thinks and behaves. Shraddha replied, "My mom. I look up to her for who she is and how she thinks. In fact, my parents have played a huge role in shaping my perspective."

Shraddha is an actress who has always delivered box office hits and the actress has never looked back and always moved forward and with every project. We have always seen best performances by the actress, which have been loved by one and all.

Shraddha is winning hearts definitely as an actress no doubt, but even as a person. The actress had an amazing 2019 with hits like Saaho and Chhichhore. 2020 being no less, we saw the dancer in Street Dancer 3D and a rebel in Baaghi 3 and the year started with a bang.

Shraddha is currently basking in the success of Baaghi 3 and will be seen alongside Ranbir Kapoor in a Luv Ranjan directorial.

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Aamir Khan has urged those who have recovered from the virus to donate blood. He shared a BMC poster, which read, "The patients have antibodies that protect against COVID-19. They can donate blood and their plasma can be used to save patients who are severely affected (sic)."

pic.twitter.com/sbXPpLiGBA

— Aamir Khan (@aamir_khan) April 20, 2020

“Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 have antibodies that protect against the virus. They can donate blood and their plasma can be used to save patients with severe COVID-19. Patients may be eligible to donate plasma 4 weeks after Complete recovery, but it they have had negative swab tests then they maybe able to donate even sooner,” the poster read.

Shahid Kapoor too argued the coronavirus recovered patients to donate blood by sharing the poster.

pic.twitter.com/yGkN1m3jmv

— Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) April 20, 2020

Before this, Ajay Devgn too had appealed recovered Covid-19 patients to donate their plasma. Taking to Twitter, Ajay had written, “If you’ve recovered from COVID19, you are a Corona warrior. We need an army of such warriors to overcome this invisible enemy. Your blood contains the bullets that can kill the virus. Please donate your blood, so others, especially the serious ones can recover. Sign up now.”

If you’ve recovered from COVID19, you are a Corona warrior. We need an army of such warriors to overcome this invisible enemy. Your blood contains the bullets that can kill the virus. Please donate your blood, so others, especially the serious ones can recover. Sign up now🙏

— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) April 19, 2020

On the work front, Aamir will be next seen in Laal Singh Chaddha which is a remake of Forrest Gump (1994). He is paired opposite Kareena Kapoor Khan in the film. Laal Singh Chaddha marks the return of the pair after a decade. Before this, they were last seen together in 3 Idiots. The film is set to release in December 2020.

On the other hand, Shahid Kapoor will be next seen in Jersey, a remake of a Telugu film of the same name and tells the tale of a failed cricketer, who tries to make a comeback to the Indian cricket team to win a team jersey to fulfil his son's desire.

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Kartik Aaryan's social media post never misses chuckling the internet away, especially during the times of quarantine, as he shares funny videos on social media, many a time featuring his sister Kritika Tiwari. However, his last video attracted much criticism, so much so that the actor had to delete the post.

Shot at the comfort of their homes, Kartik Aaryan enacts the character of a guy who is seen punishing his sister Kritika Tiwari for making bad roti (a type of Indian bread). Unhappy with the rotis given to him, Aaryan in the "funny" video catches her by her pleated hair, spins her around and flings her from the terrace. He captioned the video: "No compromise on quality."

The video did not go out well with the netizens. The skit enacted by Kartik and Kritika was described as domestic violence by many. Filmmaker Onir took to Twitter to write, "Idiotic .. someone should tell him since he is too dumb to understand that a lot of responsible Film industry members have put out a message against domestic violence and this is NOT FUNNY. But then who are we taking to ... [sic]"

He further added, "He is very popular. like his long speech from the film. But unfortunately, misogyny is very often camouflaged as "entertainment" or " real love" [sic]"

Sona Mohapatra, "I have begun to believe that thus is a new PR strategy for many. Put out misogynistic content or even hire a multiple #MeToo accused & then wait for the feminists to speak up & protest & thus amplify? Free ka publicity. Case in point Kabir Singh, Indian Idol & maybe this too? [sic]"

This guy has become a youth idol by consistently ðŸÂŒŸing in misogynistic films &is happy 2extend it to his disgusting #lockdown video. DV in India is skyrocketing many women stuck 24/7 with their https://t.co/EF3ixCUdY6 this out #India.He influences many more millions than Tangoli https://t.co/g6dyLFvnEf

— ShutUpSona (@sonamohapatra) April 21, 2020

Check out the video that Kartik posted:

Earlier, Kartik Aaryan, throughout the lockdown period, made distinctive efforts through social media, be it through his monologue or rapping, to raise awareness among the people about coronavirus and the importance to stay at home.

The effort made by the actor in his 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama' inspired monologue, grabbed the attention of many, including that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After getting praise and a retweet for his first monologue video by PM Modi, the actor has promised to "keep reminding everyone" about the importance of self-isolation during the coronavirus outbreak.

But, Kartik, this one definitely wasn't entertaining!

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Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani's relationship has been the talk of the town ever since both the actors joined the Hindi film industry. They both have been spotted together multiple times together by their fans and the paparazzi on lunches and dinners and movie screenings. And the duo has also got the company of Shroff's sister Krishna Shroff a lot of times. Not just that, even Disha and Krishna share a great bond and keep uploading their pictures and videos on social media.

And now, talking to Mumbai Mirror, Krishna has spilled the beans on Disha, her relationship with Tiger, and if they both are staying together during the lockdown. Let's hear the answer of the third question first. She says, "She isn't, but she lives close by. We go grocery-shopping sometimes." So here's hoping there are no more rumours floating around about this news since it has been cleared once and for all. Coming to her relationship with Tiger, she was candid on this question too.

"Tiger and Disha have been friends for ages. We connected over fitness. Since Tiger is a loner, I figured she is a cool girl if my brother is spending so much time with her," says Krishna. Speaking about her own thoughts on the lockdown and the fact that she's staying with her beau Eban Hyams, she says, "As long as we have a roof over our head and food on the table, I can't complain. Staying with him (Eban) makes the lockdown easier, hope he can be with his family when the restrictions are relaxed."

Also, it was reported that Jackie Shroff is stuck at their farmhouse between Pune and Lonavala. To this, Krishna states, "He went there for the weekend just before the lockdown. It has been tough but we are in touch." Here's hoping the actor is safe and sound and returns soon!

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We call this planet Mother Earth since it has given us all. And today the world celebrates Earth Day, what people are calling on social media- Earth Day 2020. It's impossible for Bollywood celebrities not to take to their social media accounts and wish their fans and everyone else on any special occasion so how could they stay away today.

Right from Madhuri Dixit to Sara Ali Khan to Sonakshi Sinha to Kajol, they took to their Twitter and Instagram accounts to write some important and inspiring and even insightful messages to wish each one of us. And none of these messages should be skipped! Let's start with Sara Ali Khan since hers was the most unique post out of them all.

She shared a collage of her pictures against the backdrop of the different weathers and wrote a beautiful caption- "Happy Earth Day. About Mother Nature what to say. Snowflakes in December, Jungles in May, On the beach, where the hair can sway. But for now at home we must stay. And with gratitude and appreciation thank Mother Earth everyday." (sic)

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Happy Earth Day 🌍 🗺 ☮ï¸Ââ™»ï¸Â About Mother Nature what to say 💁🏻‍♀ï¸Â Snowflakes in December, Jungles in May ❄ï¸Ââ›„ï¸ÂðŸŒ³ðŸ¯ 🐅On the beach, where the hair can sway 🏝 🌊 In the mountains, on my sleigh 🏔🛷 In the desert, the camel leads the way 🏜 🌵🐪 But for now at home we must stay 🏠 And with gratitude and appreciation thank Mother Earth everyday 🙏🏻🙌🏻ðŸ¤Â— #stayhome #staysafe #staypositive

A post shared by Sara Ali Khan (@saraalikhan95) onApr 21, 2020 at 6:57am PDT

Madhuri Dixit shared a boomerang video with her family where they all could be seen cycling this is what she wrote- "This lockdown has shown us how little nature needs for it to revive & thrive. On the 50th #EarthDay let us all pledge to #DoOurBit by switching off appliances when not in use, plant trees, use fuel & water conservatively. Together we can build a better world, one we all are proud of!" (sic):

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

This lockdown has shown us how little nature needs for it to revive & thrive. On the 50th #EarthDay let us all pledge to #DoOurBit by switching off appliances when not in use, plant trees, use fuel & water conservatively. Together we can build a better world, one we all are proud of!

A post shared by Madhuri Dixit (@madhuridixitnene) onApr 21, 2020 at 10:22pm PDT

Kajol took to her Twitter and wrote- "The earth does not belong to man. Man belongs to earth. If that has not been proved categorically to us at this time I don't think it ever will be." (sic):

The earth does not belong to man. Man belongs to earth. If that has not been proved categorically to us at this time I don't think it ever will be.
Happy #EarthDay2020 to all the remaining species.

— Kajol (@itsKajolD) April 22, 2020

Next in line was Sonakshi Sinha and she also had some wonderful things to say on this occasion as well. Read it right here:

When you realize “Heart” and Earth are spelt with the same letters, it all starts to make sense! Happy 50th #EarthDay!

#EarthDay2020 #WorldEarthDay2020 #EarthDayAtHome pic.twitter.com/bUs68xpOON

— Sonakshi Sinha (@sonakshisinha) April 22, 2020

Athiya Shetty also extended her wishes on Earth Day 2020 and wrote- "in a time like now, remember, the earth is what we have in common." (sic):

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

in a time like now, remember, the earth is what we have in common 🌸 #EarthDay2020 #EarthRise #VoteEarth

A post shared by Athiya Shetty (@athiyashetty) onApr 21, 2020 at 11:12pm PDT

Tamannaah Bhatia shared a beautiful picture of herself and wrote an inspiring quote that cannot be missed, have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

“The Earth Does Not Belong to Us: We Belong to the Earth.” – Marlee Matlin Climate change is real and currently we are experiencing it first hand. Let pledge to protect our planet and make it green and clean, once again! 🌏 #earthday2020

A post shared by Tamannaah Bhatia (@tamannaahspeaks) onApr 21, 2020 at 11:40pm PDT

Ileana D'Cruz shared a throwback picture and said- "Grateful, always", have a look at her beautiful picture right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Grateful, always. 🖤 #earthday

A post shared by Ileana D'Cruz (@ileana_official) onApr 22, 2020 at 1:20am PDT

And lastly, Dia Mirza announced that she would be going live on Instagram to discuss Earth Day on this occasion and we are looking forward. Here's her story:

We hope more and more Bollywood celebrities come out and wish everyone on Earth Day 2020!

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