BJP legislators led by Opposition Leader R. Ashoka and State President B.Y. Vijayendra held a protest in Bengaluru demanding female representation in the Karnataka Cabinet. They accused the Congress government of insulting women by excluding them from the cabinet for the first time in the state's history. Additionally, Vijayendra challenged the government to ban the RSS if it had the courage, criticizing the home minister for focusing on the RSS instead of department responsibilities. https://www.varthabharati.in/bangalore-city/--2267934

Actor Darshan's lawyers have approached the Karnataka High Court challenging the 59th CCH Court's order in the Renukaswamy murder case. The lower court had rejected Darshan's plea to raise objections against 14th accused Pradosh becoming an approver (pardon witness). Darshan's senior counsel Hashmath Pasha requested an urgent hearing, which the High Court has scheduled for today, August 13, at 2:30 PM. Pradosh's decision to testify could potentially change the direction of the case. https://tv9kannada.com/entertainment/sandalwood/darshan-moves-high-court-challenging-cch-court-order-on-approver-petition-1224641.html

As India prepares to celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, this guide provides tips and topics for students and professionals to prepare impactful speeches. It suggests choosing unique topics like Digital India, unsung heroes, and current challenges. The guide emphasizes preparation through structured drafting (introduction, body, conclusion), time management, accurate facts, and regular practice in front of a mirror or recording to build confidence and ensure clear pronunciation. https://www.prajavani.net/miscellaneous/youth/independence-day-speech-preparation-tips-kannada-4189704

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, launched a sharp attack on the RSS during a meeting in Delhi. He described the RSS as a 'group of jokers' and questioned their understanding of Indian history and philosophy. Gandhi urged people not to be afraid while confronting the organization's ideology. https://www.kannadaprabha.com/videos/2026/Aug/14/from-hug-diplomacy-to-meloni-pm-modi-and-amit-shah-top-moments-from-rahuls-speech

Tech professionals in Bengaluru are increasingly opting for gold loans to meet immediate financial needs like high rents, medical emergencies, and home repairs. The trend is driven by quick processing, minimal documentation (KYC), and flexible repayment options like bullet payments. Features such as no foreclosure fees and insurance for mortgaged gold make it an attractive alternative to breaking long-term investments. Experts advise checking interest rates and processing fees before committing. https://kannada.asianetnews.com/bengaluru-urban/techies-are-getting-quick-cash-by-applying-for-a-gold-loan-in-bengaluru-suh/articleshow-lkm6x4y

A felicitation ceremony for senior writer Dr. Sarjoo Katkar, winner of the prestigious Nrupatunga Sahitya Award, will be held on August 16th at 10 AM in Belagavi's Kannada Sahitya Bhavan. Organized by Chandrakanth Kusanur Foundation and others, the event will be inaugurated by Prof. M.S. Inchala. Senior advocate S.M. Kulkarni will preside over the function, and Dr. Basavaraj Jagajampi will deliver the felicitation speech. https://publicnext.com/news/district/belgaum/cultural+activity/kn/belagavi-dr-felicitation-ceremony-for-sarju-katkar-1283895

Sri Gangadharendra Saraswati Swamiji of Swarnavalli Math emphasized that religious practices, devotion, and knowledge are essential to attain liberation from suffering and fear in the final stages of life. Comparing human life to a prepaid mobile card, he noted that life ends when the accumulated karma expires. During the Chaturmasya event in Sirsi, he accepted offerings from devotees and also presented awards to talented students. The junior pontiff, Sri Anandabodhendra Saraswati, was also present during the discourse. https://publicnext.com/news/district/uttara+kannada/public+feed/kn/sirsi-religious-practice-is-essential-for-eternal-liberation-swarnavalli-sri-1284731

Naga Panchami 2026 will be celebrated on August 17. The auspicious puja muhurat is from 05:51 AM to 08:29 AM. The article details the spiritual significance of serpent worship in Sanatana Dharma, explaining its connection to lunar phases and human traits. It highlights mythological stories like Krishna's victory over Kaliya and the origin of snake venom during Samudra Manthan. Devotees perform rituals for financial prosperity, health, and to mitigate Kaala Sarpa Dosha. https://saakshatv.com/nagara-panchami-2026-date-muhurat-significance/

On the eve of the 80th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation, highlighting that students are the future architects of India. She emphasized the government's strict measures against paper leaks and exam irregularities to ensure transparency. The President encouraged youth to become entrepreneurs and foster a startup culture rather than just seeking jobs. She praised the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery in anti-terror operations like 'Operation Sindhura' and lauded the success of 'Khelo India' in nurturing sports talent. Murmu also reiterated the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, driven by economic growth and digital infrastructure. https://www.prajavani.net/news/india-news/president-droupadi-murmu-independence-day-speech-students-future-4195575

On the 80th Independence Day, PM Narendra Modi highlighted the expansion of piped gas (PNG) from 70 cities to 700 cities over the last 12 years. Currently, 1.75 crore households benefit from direct piped gas, eliminating the hassle of cylinder bookings. The PM emphasized that this green energy initiative is a significant step towards pollution control and building a sustainable India while making lives easier for housewives and common citizens. https://publicnext.com/news/national/india/politics/kn/expansion-of-pipeline-gas-to-700-cities-from-70-cities-pm-modi-describes-energy-revolution-at-red-fort-1284449