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India Today
19 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Virat Kohli received surprise text from my daughter after Test retirement: Harbhajan
Star India batter Virat Kohli received a surprise text from Harbhajan Singh's daughter Hinaya following his Test retirement, the former off-spinner has revealed. Kohli recently hung up his boots from the longest format after playing 123 matches for the country. While the batting stalwart received messages from several people congratulating him on his successful career, he also received a special text from Harbhajan's Harbhajan revealed that his daughter asked him why he retired from Test cricket. She even texted the star batter, questioning his retirement and even got a reply from Kohli."I tweeted and asked why, Virat why? Why did you retire from Test cricket? Even my daughter asked me, 'Papa, why did Virat retire?' She even messaged Virat saying, 'This is Hinaya, Virat, why did you retire?' Virat's heart also sank. He smiled and replied, 'Beta, it's time". He knows the best," Harbhajan told Instant Bollywood. Kohli announced his retirement ahead of the upcoming tour of England. He retired after scoring 9230 runs from 123 Tests at an average of 46.85 with 30 centuries and 31 fifties to his name. He made his debut in the longest format way back in 2011 against the West Indies and scored his maiden Test hundred in 2012 against Australia in is also India's most successful Test captain as he led the team in 68 Test matches, won 40, lost 17 and 11 ended in a draw. Under his leadership, India registered their maiden series win in Australia 2018-19 and many other memorable overseas victories, with the most famous one being at Lord's 2021 vs England. Under his captaincy, India lost just two Test matches at home in seven years and maintained an unbeaten record in series.
India Today
19 minutes ago
- Business
- India Today
Google starts selling Pixel phones directly in India, offers cashback and discounts on its official store
In a significant move for Indian consumers, Google has officially launched its dedicated online store in the country. The new Google Store India gives users direct access to the company's full range of hardware products, including Pixel smartphones, Pixel Buds, and Pixel Watch models, all without needing to go through third-party retailers or resellers. The launch marks a major shift in how Google's devices are sold in India, including several perks and discounts listed by the company. advertisementGoogle says that purchasing devices through its official Indian storefront comes with numerous advantages, such as flexible payment options, cashback offers, and Google Store Credit. In celebration of the launch, a series of limited-time offers have also gone live, including sizeable discounts and attractive exchange deals for Pixel smartphones. Let's take a look. Pixel devices get discounts at the Google storePixel 9a: The Pixel 9a is the most affordable offering in the latest Pixel lineup. With a market retail price of Rs 39,999, Google is offering a Rs 2,000 store discount and an additional Rs 2,000 instant cashback, bringing the effective price down to Rs 35,999. For those who prefer instalments, a no-cost EMI option is available at Rs 1,584/month for 24 months. On eligible device exchange, buyers can get an additional Rs 10,000 bonus, reducing the monthly effective cost to Rs 1,167. Customers will also receive Rs 5,000 in Google Store credit for their next Pixel 9: For buyers seeking a balance between performance and price, the Pixel 9 comes with a price of Rs 75,999. Google is offering a Rs 6,000 store discount and Rs 6,000 cashback, reducing the net effective price to Rs 63,999. EMI starts at Rs 2,667/month for 24 months. An exchange bonus of Rs 13,000 is applicable, bringing the effective cost further down. Additionally, buyers get Rs 5,000 in Google Store 9 Pro: The Pixel 9 Pro, priced at Rs 96,999, is being offered with a Rs 8,000 store discount and Rs 7,000 instant cashback, bringing the price to Rs 81,999. Customers can pay via a no-cost EMI of Rs 3,417/month over 24 months. The exchange bonus is pegged at Rs 15,000, offering a substantial saving for upgraders. Users will also receive Rs 6,000 in Google Store credit for their next 9 Pro Fold: For foldable phone enthusiasts, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is now available at a reduced price. Originally priced at Rs 1,59,999, it gets a Rs 15,000 discount and Rs 10,000 cashback, bringing the price down to Rs 1,34,999. EMI options begin at Rs 5,625/month for 24 months. The exchange bonus of Rs15,000 adds further value, and users will receive Rs 8,000 in store credit to use on future 8 Pro: Still a powerful device, the Pixel 8 Pro now sees a major price cut. With a regular price of Rs 1,06,999, it now gets a massive Rs 30,000 discount plus Rs 7,000 cashback, bringing the net price to Rs 69,999. EMI starts at Rs 2,917/month. An exchange bonus of Rs 13,000 is available, reducing the overall burden. Google is also offering 5,000 in store credit for this Watch 3: The new Pixel Watch 3 starts from Rs 39,999 with EMI plans from Rs 1,667/month over 24 months. While no direct discounts or cashback are currently listed, Google is offering Rs 5,000 in store credit for future purchases, adding value to the Buds Pro 2: The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are priced at Rs 23,999 and available with EMI starting from Rs 1,000/month. While there are no listed discounts or exchange bonuses, customers will receive Rs 3,000 in Google Store credit that can be used towards another bonusTo sweeten the deal, Google is rolling out exchange bonuses for those looking to trade in their old phones for a new Pixel. As part of the launch promotion, users will receive an additional exchange bonus over the value of their old company also introduced the Pixel Price Promise, ensuring price transparency and fairness. If a buyer discovers a better price for the same product on the Google Store or with an authorised retail partner within the return window, Google may offer a partial refund to match the pricing, Google is also promising enhanced customer service for Indian users. Purchases from the Google Store come with official warranty support, 24/7 customer service by trained experts, and same-day device servicing in select Indian its direct-to-consumer model now in place, Google is clearly betting big on India — aiming to streamline the buying experience while giving customers better value, flexibility, and support for their Pixel devices.
India Today
20 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Harry Potter x MINISO Pop-Up Store Now Open at Mall of India, Noida
Attention, all Wizards and Muggles! The wait is over—the exclusive Harry Potter x MINISO Pop-Up Store is now open at Mall of India, Noida! Explore a world of magic at Miniso's Harry Potter pop-up store, where a wide selection of officially licensed Harry Potter products is available. From enchanting stationery and spellbinding plush toys to house-themed accessories and collectibles, this pop-up store is a dream come true for every Harry Potter fan. Whether you're a brave Gryffindor, a wise Ravenclaw, a loyal Hufflepuff, or an ambitious Slytherin, you'll find something to showcase your House pride!The store is inspired by elements as seen in the Harry Potter films. As you step in, you'll be greeted by decor inspired by the corridors of Hogwarts, complete with floating candles and spellbinding visuals. Every corner of the store offers a magical experience, making it the perfect setting for capturing memorable photos. You can even pose next to life-size replicas of famous props from the films!Event details-Harry Potter X Miniso Pop-up storeDate: May 25th- June 29thTimings: 11 AM - 11 PMBeyond the visual experience, the Harry Potter x MINISO Pop-Up Store offers an extensive range of exclusive Harry Potter merchandise that will delight every fan. Browse through intricately designed wands, stylish Hogwarts house-themed bags, and adorable plushies of your favorite magical creatures. If you're a collector, you won't want to miss the limited-edition items that are only available at this those looking to add a touch of Hogwarts to their daily life, the store features an exciting selection of home and lifestyle products. From cozy Gryffindor blankets to intricately designed Ravenclaw notebooks, every item lets you carry a piece of Harry Potter's world with you wherever you go. Whether you're buying for yourself or picking up a gift for a fellow Harry Potter fan, there's something for elevate the magical experience, the pop-up store also features Harry Potter clothing products celebrating each Hogwarts house! Fans can explore house-inspired apparel and discover photo-worthy corners designed with stunning wizarding world this pop-up experience is only available for a limited time! Gather your fellow witches and wizards and make your way to Mall of India, Noida, before the magic disappears. Don't forget to share your magical moments on social media using #HarryPotterXMINISO #MINISOINDIA #MagicalWondersAwait and join the spellbinding adventure today! Explore the magical world—only at the Harry Potter x MINISO Pop-Up Store!About the Harry Potter franchise From the moment eleven-year-old Harry Potter met Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, his adventures have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Today, over 25 years later, the Harry Potter phenomenon thrives as one of the most successful and best-loved entertainment properties in history.J.K. Rowling's best-selling Harry Potter novels have been brought to life in an ever-evolving, interconnected universe that is loved by millions of fans worldwide. Eight blockbuster Harry Potter films and three epic Fantastic Beasts films bring the spellbinding action to life on screen, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child mesmerises on stage, and state-of-the-art video and mobile games from Portkey Games allow players to experience the wizarding world like never before. Fans can proudly showcase their passion through innovative consumer products, and thrill at spectacular location-based experiences - including five theme park lands at Universal Studios locations around the expanding portfolio of Warner Bros. Discovery-owned Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts offerings includes ground-breaking touring experiences and events, each developed to celebrate special moments and locations that fans cherish, as well as the Platform 9 34 retail shops and iconic flagship store - Harry Potter New York. Wizards, Witches, and Muggles alike can also discover something new as they explore behind-the-scenes secrets at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry a new HBO Original TV series based on the Harry Potter books on the way, this extended world continues to provide the community with fresh and exciting ways to interact. For its global fans, and for generations to come, it invites everyone in to find the magic for themselves. About Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer ProductsWarner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), part of Warner Bros. Discovery's Revenue & Strategy division, extends the company's powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBDGCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on award-winning toy, fashion, home dcor, and publishing programs inspired by the biggest franchises from Warner Bros.' film, television, animation, and games studios, HBO, Discovery, DC, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Eurosport, Adult Swim, and more. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, and promotional partnerships, WBDGCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the The material and information contained are for advertorial purposes only. India Today holds no responsibility for the content written on the website as a basis for making any business, legal, or any other decision. Any reliance placed on such material is at your own risk. advertisement
India Today
21 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Actor Unni Mukundan shares screenshot of Tovino's chat, shuts down rift rumours
Malayalam actor Unni Mukundan, who has been in the centre of controversy after his altercation with his former manager, Vipin Kumar, shared a screengrab of his chat with actor Tovino Thomas on his Instagram Stories. By doing so, he has cleared the air surrounding rumours of a possible rift with Tovino Thomas. The screenshot is now going this week, Vipin Kumar, who claims to be the 'Marco' actor's former manager, filed a complaint against him for verbally and physically assaulting him for praising Tovino Thomas's 'Narivetta'.advertisementAmid the row, Unni Mukundan shared a screenshot of his WhatsApp chat with Tovino Thomas. It indicates that the 'Narivetta' actor has sent him a 10-second voice note. The two then continued their conversation using Mammootty and Mohanlal's GIFs. Here's the post: Unni Mukundan shared a statement denying all the claims, including the physical attack, made by Vipin Kumar. In a post on social media, the 'Get Set Baby' actor stated that Vipin never worked as a manager with him."It has come to my notice that many of the problems that adversely affect my job are caused by this person. I'm starting to get many complaints from new and famous film directors and producers for gossip and meaningless talk against Vipin. He spread inhuman rumours about me. Contacted an actress and asked her to marry me. This led to a big fight between him and me," he himself an easy target, Unni said that there was no truth to any accusations against him.
India Today
21 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Kamal Haasan regrets not getting Satyajit Ray to score Pushpak music: He would have
Kamal Haasan's silent film 'Pushpaka Vimana' is one of the most iconic movies in his eclectic career graph. In a recent sit-down chat with India Today, the stalwart spoke about how legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray was to be approached for scoring music for the film. The 1987-film titled 'Pushpaka Vimana' stars Haasan and Amala in lead roles. It revolves around an unemployed man taking on the identity of an unconscious, drunk rich businessman. Critically acclaimed and highly successful, 'Pushpak' is a film that is very close to an anecdote with us, Haasan said, 'I must tell you a tidbit, which is a lost opportunity by everyone who made 'Pushpak'. We were on the very edge of contacting Mr Satyajit Ray to do music for 'Pushpak'. We missed it. We still regret it. But then market pressures were high, and we had to settle down and get the film done. Imagine that would have taken us places.'Kamal Haasan stated that had Satyajit Ray agreed to come onboard, he would have taken 'Pushpak' to a whole new level. "He would have advised us and the fact that he didn't know this was happening out of earshot. He mentions 'Pushpak' and that is truly is a missed opportunity. He would have worked," he added."We were thinking he 'could have', but he would have worked because of the way I heard him talk about that one scene in 'Pushpak'. He would have liked it and we missed an opportunity. This industry is full of lost opportunities like that," the actor Haasan's upcoming film 'Thug Life' with Mani Ratnam hits theatres on June InTrending Reel
