Latest news with #Senorita
India Today
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Murder and kidnapping, rampant at Delhi pumps, as authorities impose a car ban
Rajesh was out with his beloved Senorita, not a flamenco dancer, but his trusted diesel car, on an ordinary weekday morning. Like many mornings before, he pulled into a Delhi fuel pump to top up. But what happened next was anything but ordinary. Two men in Khaki wardis approached him and, without preamble, asked him to hand over Senorita. Utterly bewildered, Rajesh mustered the courage to ask why. The answer came in the form of a blunt statement that the cameras had detected that his Senorita was over 10 years old and had lost the right to live. Senorita, Rajesh's beloved diesel car was bought with his hard-earned money. The 7-year EMI term had only just ended a few years ago, finally bringing him financial wasn't a random act of coercion. It was enforcement in action. An act of legalised injustice which feels like theft in broad daylight is, on paper, perfectly lawful. In what can be called state-sponsored swindling, vehicles are being taken from their owners under the guise of environmental are hundreds of people like Rajesh on Delhi's streets today, whose prized possessions are being confiscated by authorities. The situation has become so dire that people have started selling off their expensive cars at throwaway prices just to avoid a total loss. Delhi's crackdown on "end-of-life vehicles." not death but the presumed end by the authorities, those older than 10 years for diesels and 15 for petrol has reached fuel stations, where surveillance cameras now scan number plates and automatically flag non-compliant vehicles. Owners like Rajesh are then denied fuel, sometimes even coerced into surrendering their vehicles on the Draconian measure, aimed at curbing air pollution, has instead ignited a firestorm of criticism for its heavy-handed enforcement and lack of empathy. Owners of well-maintained vehicles, many still in pristine condition, are being forced to surrender their prized possessions or sell them at throwaway prices to avoid total loss. The policy's blanket approach, ignoring roadworthiness or valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates is absurd and anti-middle Delhi consistently ranking amongst the world's most polluted cities, the government has scrambled for solutions, often at the expense of its citizens. But targeting older vehicles alone, without addressing larger pollution sources, is unlikely to bring any meaningful or lasting improvement in air was meant to be a green initiative now feels like a forced scrapping drive. While environmental concerns are valid, the implementation has lacked empathy and foresight. There are no clear rehabilitation measures for affected vehicle owners; no compensation, no government support, and certainly no transition of enough incentives to switch to cleaner alternatives or retrofitting options, Delhi has chosen the stick over the carrot. The intention may be clean air, but the road taken is leaving behind a trail of resentment, ruined finances, and abandoned media platforms, particularly X, have become a place for venting frustration, with vehicle owners like Ratan Dhillon highlighting the plight of lakhs of affected vehicle owners. Ratan Dhillon's tweet is a passionate critique of Delhi's vehicle ban policy, particularly its blanket treatment of older vehicles as polluters, regardless of their actual condition. In his post, Dhillon showcases his father's 16-year-old Mercedes E280 V6, proudly noting that it still performs exceptionally well, with every feature functioning flawlessly. He argues that it's more reliable and still cleaner than many modern vehicles that often break down. However, despite its excellent condition, he laments that he's now forced to label it 'vintage scrap' because of India's strict age-based vehicle laws. His tweet expresses deep frustration that decisions are being made without regard for automotive value, engineering quality, or environmental nuance. Dhillon ends with a challenge to the government, asking them to prove that his car is polluting. He asserts they won't be able to, but they'll still penalise him under the current system, underscoring what he sees as an irrational and unfair policy. advertisementAnother X user criticised the move, calling it a case of 'selective sacrifice' disguised as environmental reform. Highlighting the unequal burden of the policy, the user pointed out that while gig workers, small business owners, and middle-class families are left stranded. Despite having valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, many vehicles are now deemed illegal purely based on age raising questions about whether the government is truly targeting emissions, or merely targeting the poor. The post ends with a scathing rhetorical question: 'Are we banning emissions or just the poor?"For now, the capital's fuel stations are the new battleground, where machines are judged not by their emissions, but by their birthdays. For now, stories like Rajesh's, where dreams built on hard-earned money are crushed overnight, continue to fuel a cry for fairness and to Auto Today Magazine- EndsMust Watch
India.com
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
From Shraddha Kapoor To Priyanka Chopra: 6 Stars Who Nail Both Acting And Singing
New Delhi: Bollywood has always been a treasure trove of immense talent, but nothing engages quite the audience like an artist who effortlessly commands both the stage and the screen. These aren't just actors; they're genuine vocal powerhouses. It's a rare gift to move an audience with a monologue and then enchant them with a melody. Here's a closer look at six renowned stars who have truly stunned everyone with their singing prowess: Farhan Akhtar A true renaissance man of Indian cinema, Farhan Akhtar is not only an acclaimed actor, director, and writer but also a bona fide rockstar. As the dynamic frontman of his band, Farhan Live, he electrifies audiences with his raw, powerful voice and energetic stage presence. From anthems like "Rock On!!" and "Socha Hai" to the foot-tapping "Senorita" and "Dil Dhadakne Do," his songs are embedded in the fabric of modern Bollywood, making him an unstoppable force both on and off screen. Shraddha Kapoor Our very own "Aashiqui girl" isn't just winning hearts with her acting; she's also rocking the mic! You know her as the girl-next-door who lights up the screen, but her voice is just as charming. Remember how she totally floored us with "Galliyan (Unplugged)" from Ek Villian and Sab Tera from Baaghi cementing her status as a soulful singer. Aparshakti Khurana Often celebrated for his impeccable comic timing and memorable roles, Aparshakti Khurana is a truly multifaceted talent who excels in acting, singing, and hosting. He has carved out a significant space in the music industry, having released a string of popular sinhgles like "Kudiye Ni," "Zaroor," and his recent releases "Lafzaan" and "First Sight Wala Love." His smooth, contemporary vocal style is both charming and distinct, offering a delightful dimension to his already versatile artistic persona. Alia Bhatt Celebrated for her astonishing versatility on-screen, Alia Bhatt also possesses a remarkably soulful voice that resonates deeply. Her renditions of songs like "Samjhawan Unplugged" and "Ikk Kudi" aren't just tracks; they're emotional experiences that have garnered her a dedicated fanbase for her vocals alone. Her ability to infuse songs with genuine feeling ensures they linger long after the music fades. Vedang Raina While relatively new to the Bollywood scene, Vedang Raina, who made a debut in The Archies, isn't just a promising actor; he's also an emerging vocal talent. He lent his voice to "Everything Is Politics" in his debut film and has continued to showcase his singing in Jigra with tracks like "Phoolon Ka Taaro Ka" and the "Jigra Title Track." Priyanka Chopra Jonas A true global icon, Priyanka Chopra Jonas is far more than just a power-packed actress. Her journey into the international pop music scene marked her as a versatile singer with incredible vocal depth. From the heartfelt "Dil Dhadakne Do" to the international hits "Exotic" (featuring Pitbull) and "In My City," PeeCee's powerful voice and confident delivery established her as a genuine musical sensation, mirroring her success in cinema. These incredible talents remind us that in Bollywood's vibrant entertainment hub, artistry often knows no single boundary. They are not just acting out stories; they are singing them too, adding even more magic to Bollywood's already dazzling appeal.
Borneo Post
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Kumang Gawai: More than just about beauty
Senorita in a photo-call, taken during the interview at her residence in Kuching. FOR over half a century, the name 'Kumang Gawai' has symbolised more than just beauty – it embodies the pride, culture, and resilience of the Dayaks in Sarawak. Traditionally held during the Gawai Dayak celebration, this pageant features women adorned in their intricate traditional attire and judged not only on their appearance, but also on their cultural knowledge, poise and personality. Said to have been introduced in the 1960s, the Kumang Gawai once held a prominent role at the state level, serving as a prestigious platform to honour Dayak identity and heritage. However, in the years following the Covid-19 pandemic, the event had been scaled down to a non-competitive format. Often likened to Sabah's iconic 'Unduk Ngadau', Kumang Gawai has long been considered as the 'crown jewel' of the Gawai calendar. Throughout the recent years, however, its visibility has quietly diminished – reduced to parade-style appearances during state-level Gawai Dayak open houses and dinners. Now, amid a renewed wave of cultural pride and heritage preservation, a crucial question is being asked: Is it time to revive the state-level Kumang Gawai in all its former splendour? Rooted in myth, identity Unlike mainstream beauty contests, Kumang Gawai is deeply rooted in the legends and folklores of the Iban people. The concept draws from rich oral traditions, where beauty is not merely physical but symbolic of grace, femininity, and the ideals of womanhood. In Iban mythology, Kumang is the heavenly goddess and consort of 'Keling' – the celestial hero and archetypal prince. She is famed for her exceptional beauty and remarkable lineage, hailing from Batang Gelong, believed to be the ancestral land of the most beautiful Iban women. The ideal Iban woman, as personified by Kumang, embodies gentleness, resourcefulness, artistic talents, fidelity, and inner strength. These attributes form the spiritual and cultural foundation of the pageant – a search for the 'Festival Queen' and symbolic 'Heavenly Beauty' among the participating Dayak women. 'More than a crown' To explore the relevance of the pageant today, thesundaypost spoke to several former titleholders including Datin Senorita Linang, the first Iban to be crowned Kumang Gawai Dayak at the state level in 1966, and continued to win in 1967, and 1968. Back then, the pageant was jointly organised by Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) and Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) at the Rumah Dayak, on a site along Jalan Satok just opposite the Sarawak headquarters of Bank Negara Malaysia. Photo of Senorita taken after her crowning as Kumang Gawai in 1968. A trailblazer in many respects, Senorita made history not only within Sarawak but also on the national stage. One of her highlights as a beauty queen was when she represented Sarawak at the Miss Malaysia Float Queen, held in conjunction with the 10th National Day celebration at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur, on Aug 31, 1967. She was up against 13 other state-level queens and 22 non-governmental organisation (NGO) representatives, and emerged the second runner-up. According to Senorita, although the state-level competition has yet to be revived, Kumang Gawai pageants continue to be held at the divisional level. She noted that this year alone, competitions had taken place in Betong, Kapit, Miri, Sri Aman, Sibu and also during the 'R&R Borneo Cultural 2025' event at Penview Convention Centre (PCC) Demak in Kuching – just to name just a few. These events also welcomed participants from various Dayak communities, notably the Bidayuh with its title 'Dayung Sagon' (literally means 'beautiful woman' in the language), and the Orang Ulu with its title 'Keligit'. There were also the competitions for the men, with the 'Keling', the Bidayuh's 'Dari Pogan' (strongman), and 'Berawan' titles. Senorita (left) in a photo call with the Top 3 contestants of the Kumang Iban category of R&R Borneo Cultural 2025 event in Kuching. 'All these reflect the pageant's growing inclusivity and cultural diversity. 'We still bring divisional winners to parade at the state-level Gawai dinner every year, except during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. 'Typically, four Kumang winners and two Keling winners are invited, but the actual state-level competition hasn't resumed – there's no more excitement, no more competition,' said the former manager of Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) Performing Arts, when met at her residence recently. Nevertheless, Senorita – a respected cultural custodian and long-time organiser of the event – believed that the value of Kumang Gawai remained undiminished. 'We should be proud to show our culture – not only at the state level, but even at national and international levels. 'It's a celebration of who we are.' A platform for identity Angela Martin, the state-level Kumang 1995 winner, remembered the pageant as 'the highlight of Gawai festivities'. 'It brought communities together. We represented our divisions with pride. 'The pageant wasn't just about looks – we were judged on our knowledge of heritage, language, and customs,' said Angela, who later became a Guinness Stout poster model in 1996. Jennifer Jack, the titleholder in 2003, described the competition as 'a catalyst for both cultural identity and tourism'. 'We should be aiming for something like the 'Unduk Ngadau'. Our version should be no less prestigious,' she stressed. Angela posing after she was crowned the state-level Kumang Gawai in 1995, representing Sri Aman. Beyond the sparkle of traditional costume and gold bangles, former winners agreed that Kumang Gawai was never about aesthetics alone, as it served as a cultural incubator – grooming leadership, public speaking skills, and nurturing deeper understanding of Dayak heritage. Marcella Shareen Mos, a finalist and Miss Fair & Lovely Gawai Tourism Night 2004, recalled how the competition had empowered her and many other women. 'Kumang Gawai is not just a beauty pageant. You learn to carry yourself in public, speak with pride about your culture, and represent your people. 'It also acted as a bridge for cultural exchange. 'People would ask about your attire, your beads, your language – it could open conversations, and it could educate,' she said. Jennifer was crowned state-level Kumang Gawai in 2003, making her one of the last recipients of this title in the state-level competition. A forward-looking revival For many, the push for revival is not merely nostalgic – it is a vision grounded in modern possibilities. Jennifer believed that the pageant needed structural reform and digital transformation. 'We need a permanent organising body, like Sabah's Unduk Ngadau Association. 'Include past winners; tap into their experiences. 'Promote it widely on social media, get the tourism boards involved, and also add grooming workshops, public-speaking rounds, and cultural knowledge segments. Showcase not just beauty, but substance,' she suggested, to which Angela concurred. 'Use modern tools, but never compromise on tradition. 'Keep the mother tongue. Keep the 'ngepan' (Iban traditional attire) authentic. 'Don't turn it into a costume show for the camera,' she pointed out. Jennifer (left) is a regularly-invited judge at various local-level Kumang Gawai pageants. Engaging next generation There is growing optimism that a revitalised state-level Kumang Gawai could appeal to the younger generation of women, particularly the Gen Z seeking to reconnect with their cultural roots. 'With social media, you can go viral in one night, but still, we need to provide substance. 'Teach them the history of their attire. 'Let them visit the cultural sites, orphanages, and homes for the elderly. 'Make it a holistic, meaningful journey – not just a walk on stage,' said Marcella. She fondly recalled the era when the competition would span over several days, filled with rehearsals, mentorship, and community outreach programmes. 'It was tough, but it was fun. 'Joining a beauty pageant isn't just about looking your best. It challenges you to grow, to step out of your comfort zone, and to present yourself with confidence in front of others. 'Through the experience, I learned how to engage with people from different backgrounds and levels, how to speak thoughtfully, and most importantly, how to show respect for everyone around me. 'It's an opportunity that not only builds self-esteem, but one that also shapes you into someone who can connect, inspire, and represent with grace,' she added. Marcella, looking radiant after she was crowned Kumang Gawai Sadia in 2000. The road ahead The idea of reviving the full-scale state-level Kumang Gawai has already sparked conversations among the organisers and past participants. With consistent support from the State Gawai Dayak Celebration Dinner Committee, which continues to sponsor the event annually, many believe a revival is not only possible, but inevitable. As Sarawak continues to assert its cultural distinctiveness within Malaysia and on the world stage, the return of Kumang Gawai is increasingly seen not just as a nostalgic dream, but also as a timely vision – blending identity, pride, and women's empowerment, wrapped in beads, brocade, and tradition. Kumang Gawai sarawak Senorita Linang
Hype Malaysia
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
From BTS To SHINee: 6 K-pop Idols Who Didn't Like Their Title Tracks
Even in the early days of K-pop, our favourite idol groups released multiple groundbreaking hits that cemented their status in the Korean entertainment industry. This trend continued across future generations, with a number of idols reaching significant milestones and earning the title of legends. However, despite releasing some truly iconic tracks, did you know that some members — or even entire groups — didn't actually like the songs themselves? It might seem unusual to dislike a hit, but here are instances where idols have expressed their confusion, dissatisfaction or straight-up hate for their title tracks: 1. Girls' Generation Taeyeon – 'GEE' When you think of Girls' Generation (SNSD), one of the first songs that likely comes to mind is 'Gee'. The track became an instant hit upon its release in 2009 and, along with its colourful music video, went on to become one of the group's most iconic songs. However, member Taeyeon has said in multiple interviews how she had doubts about the single as she wanted to explore a more mature sound at the time. It wasn't until the 2021 interview with VOGUE that she started to appreciate the song more after reflecting on the impact it had on the K-pop industry and their career. 2. BTS – 'Dynamite' The song that lifted K-pop fans' spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic, 'Dynamite', was BTS' first fully English-language track and quickly became one of their most iconic releases. However, Jin revealed on a variety show that the members initially felt distant from the song, admitting that out of all the demos presented to them, 'Dynamite' was simply the one they disliked the least. In another interview, the members also shared that singing in English felt unnatural for them. However, the song turned out to be exactly what their fans needed during quarantine — and that, ultimately, was what the group had hoped to achieve. 3. I-DLE Yuqi – 'Senorita' As seen in the video above, there have been moments where I-DLE (formerly (G)I-DLE) member Yuqi appeared to show some discontent towards the group's song 'Senorita'. While much of it may have been in jest, fans have speculated that she isn't particularly fond of the track, possibly due to her lines being largely limited to the '유후후후후후후후후' vocalisation towards the end of the song. 4. SHINee Key – 'Ring Ding Dong' It's basically impossible not to think of 'Ring Ding Dong' whenever SHINee is mentioned. The intro, the chorus, the choreography, and the outfits were simply everything back in the day when it was first released. The song was basically an earworm, and sadly, that's the reason why one of the members ended up being a little too fed up with it. On the same show where Taeyeon shared her thoughts on 'Gee', Key shared his experience promoting his group's most famous song. 'It wasn't a problem of personal taste, but I had a difficult time during 'Ring Ding Dong'. Everywhere I went, I heard the song playing. I didn't even want to hear the song's name. I think I heard it over a million times. I would be sitting in a quiet car, but it would be playing in my head.' 5. STAYC – 'Teddy Bear' During their appearance on the 'Knowing Bros' show, members of STAYC shared some behind-the-scenes secrets about their album 'Teddy Bear'. It turned out the group weren't so confident about the title song when it was first presented to them, but their producer insisted that it would be a hit. It wasn't until they started practising the choreography that they were finally convinced that the song would do well. 6. TWICE – 'Signal' & 'Cheer Up' TWICE has released a number of hit songs over the years, but that doesn't mean the members have loved every single one. In a radio interview, they revealed that they were initially confused when they first heard 'Signal', not realising it would be chosen as their title track. The group expressed concerns about the song, as it differed significantly from their usual concepts, but Sana believed it would be a hit. They also shared that they had a similar reaction when first hearing the demo for 'Cheer Up'. Since that track turned out to be a huge success, they decided to place their trust in the team and worked hard to prepare for 'Signal''s release. And the rest, as they say, is history. Sources: Soompi (1)(2) What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
Daily Mirror
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
The unusual way Soccer Aid stars are bonding ahead of charity match
Celebrities and football legends join forces to raise vital funds for UNICEF with Old Trafford game The Soccer Aid camp have been bonding over late night karaoke sessions. Celebrities including singer Tom Grennan, presenter Big Zuu and footballer Robbie Keane were on the mic until 11pm belting out hits as they got stuck into training at Champneys Tring. Tom, 30, revealed: 'We've been singing all night." 'There were a few dancing queens last night,' chuckled Lioness Steph Houghton, 37. 'There was a bit of ABBA, everyone was having a great time.' Big Zuu, 29, said he got in on the action. 'I sang Senorita by Justin Timberlake,' he told. 'As soon as Robbie says it's time to sing, you're ready. Get a vocal ready. He is the life and soul of soccer. It really broke the ice on the first night.' Coach Harry Redknapp, 78, said he left the team to it - and didn't bother imposing any strict curfew as he said they wouldn't listen to him. 'They definitely won't listen to me,' he laughed. 'I just go to bed and ignore it all the let them get on with it. And hope for the best in the morning. Everyone gets a bit excited.' Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 sees England taking on the Soccer Aid World XI FC in the world's biggest celebrity football match. Stars taking part include One Direction star Louis Tomlinson, explorer Bear Grylls, Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka Marquez and Gladiators favourite Diamond. Denise Lewis says she's been pushed out of her comfort zone in her first year taking part in Soccer Aid. The retired Olympics athletics star says she's gained a newfound love for football and has even joined a local team. 'I'm representing the 52 year old women right now,' Denise says proudly. 'I'm a debutant and I've been retired for 100 years so this is all new territory for me. I'm trying to champion the mindset of trying something new, go out your comfort zone, do something different, and have fun with it.' Having joined Penn & Tylers Green Football Club in the lead up to tomorrow, Denise said she's taken to the sport. 'I wasn't that girl who had the opportunity to play football in school,' she explained. 'It just didn't happen. And so I've only started kicking a ball, even with my boys, just the odd kick. I'm fit for purpose. It's nothing like when I was an elite athlete, but I definitely think I've been more mindful about why I exercise now in the last five years.' This year, thanks to the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, every donation you make to Soccer Aid for UNICEF will be doubled – up to £5 million. It will take place tomorrow at Old Trafford, Manchester and will be shown live exclusively on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player. Donate to UNICEF ahead of the match at
