Iran and Oman have reached an agreement on the mapping of shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz following weeks of technical negotiations that began on June 18. Despite U.S. interference, both coastal nations finalized the plan to ensure safe navigation and uphold sovereignty. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, stated that the full restoration of maritime security depends on the U.S. ending its military threats, naval blockades, and illegal actions in the region. https://www.varthabharati.in/international/agreement-with-oman-on-hormuz-security-iran-2268518

Ukraine launched one of its largest drone attacks against Russia, resulting in at least six deaths. Russia claimed to have shot down 822 drones. The attacks caused fires in warehouses and damaged homes and railway stations. In retaliation, Russia struck Ukraine's capital Kyiv, targeting military-industrial sites and markets, leaving six people injured. https://www.varthabharati.in/international/ukraine-drone-attack-on-russia-at-least-6-people-dead-2268526

Superstar Rajinikanth celebrated 51 successful years in the Indian film industry on the sets of his upcoming 173rd film 'Dharman'. Director Ashwath Marimuthu and the film crew celebrated the milestone by cutting a cake. Having debuted on August 15, 1975, with 'Apoorva Raagangal', Rajinikanth has become a global icon through his unique style. The film 'Dharman' is produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International and features Simran Bagga and Raashii Khanna in pivotal roles. The actor also has 'Jailer 2' in his pipeline. https://udayavani.com/cinema/rajinikanth-completes-51-years-in-cinema-celebrates-milestone-on-dharman-sets-913930

Bangladesh has stated that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's proposed visit to India is unlikely unless the extradition process for former PM Sheikh Hasina and other fugitives is initiated. Foreign Ministry spokesperson A.K.M. Shahidul Karim mentioned that Hasina's public interaction in New Delhi on August 5 has impacted diplomatic ties. Bangladesh has requested Indian authorities to act swiftly on the extradition of Hasina and accused individuals in the Sharif Usman Hadi murder case, emphasizing the need for a conducive environment for the high-level visit. https://www.varthabharati.in/international/pm-tarique-rahman-will-not-visit-india-until-hasina-is-handed-over-bangladesh-2268523

Vastu expert Arun Kumar Pattar emphasized the need to preserve and introduce Indian knowledge heritage to future generations during a lecture in Kalaburagi. Speaking at The Institution of Engineers (India) local center, he highlighted the importance of studying the scientific aspects of traditional Vastu Shastra. He suggested that integrating modern technology with traditional wisdom would benefit society. The event was attended by officials from KKRDB and other engineering professionals. https://www.varthabharati.in/kalaburagi/kalaburagi-need-to-preserve-indian-knowledge-heritage-arunkumar-pattar-2268525

Emerging Bollywood actress Ananya Raj passed away at the age of 27 due to prolonged physical and mental health struggles. Though she died on July 15, her family revealed the news a month later via Instagram. Ananya debuted in 2016 with '7 Hours to Go' and appeared in films like 'The Final Exit' and Vikram Bhatt's horror film 'Ghost', as well as several web series. https://www.kannadaprabha.com/cinema/bollywood/2026/Aug/16/actress-ananya-raj-known-for-ghost-and-thaggede-le-passes-away-at-27

Bangladesh men's cricket team created history by winning their first-ever Test match on Australian soil in Darwin. By defeating Australia by 9 wickets, Bangladesh became the fastest Asian team to record a Test win in Australia, achieving this feat in just 3 matches, surpassing Pakistan (7) and India (12). Australia lost a home Test to an Asian side other than India for the first time since 1995. Bangladesh chased down a 57-run target after bowling out Australia for 284 in their second innings. This marks Bangladesh's second Test win in SENA nations following their 2022 victory in New Zealand. https://www.kannadaprabha.com/cricket/2026/Aug/16/cricket-bangladesh-break-pakistans-huge-record-after-historic-first-win-in-australia

Medical experts warn against consuming certain foods while drinking alcohol. Fatty foods like french fries and pakoras can stress the liver and cause bloating. Spicy dishes like biryani increase acidity, while salty snacks like chips lead to dehydration and increased alcohol consumption. Sweets can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Experts recommend light, digestible food like boiled eggs or vegetables and staying hydrated with plenty of water to minimize health risks. http://zeenews.india.com/kannada/health/what-not-to-eat-while-drinking-alcohol-394014

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has expressed disappointment over being underutilized as a batsman throughout his international career. Despite having an average of over 60 and three triple centuries in first-class cricket, he was often sent to bat at number 8 or 9, sometimes even after bowlers. Jadeja revealed that this lack of trust from the team management affected his confidence and morale during the initial years of his career. https://kannada.news18.com/news/sports/my-confidence-was-literally-disturbed-ravindra-jadeja-on-being-pushed-down-batting-order-mbr-ws-b-2470977.html

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report for 2024-25 reveals that over 53% of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) remains unutilized. Out of ₹11,474 crore sanctioned for natural disasters, only ₹5,356 crore was transferred to states. Similarly, only 25% of the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) reached states. The report highlights significant underutilization of special relief funds across financial years 2022-25. Major states like Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Assam received much less than their requested disaster relief funds, leading some to approach the Supreme Court. https://www.varthabharati.in/National/states-have-not-been-given-even-half-of-the-emergency-disaster-fund-cag-report-2268502