Indian-American teenager Shrey Parikh's victory at the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee has sparked a wave of racist and anti-immigrant reactions on social media. The 14-year-old California student won the prestigious competition after correctly spelling 32 words in a record-breaking 90-second spell-off round. While many celebrated his achievement, some online users linked to the MAGA movement questioned the dominance of Indian-origin contestants and posted offensive comments targeting his ethnicity. Critics shared remarks such as, "This isn't an American, he's brown," and "Get these things out of the United States." The incident has reignited debate over immigration, identity and diversity in America. (PC: X)  

Rajasthan Royals sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi capped off a remarkable IPL 2026 campaign by winning the Orange Cap at just 15 years and 65 days of age. The teenage batter finished the season with 776 runs from 16 matches at an average of 48.5 and a stunning strike rate of 237.3. His lead remained intact after Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill and opener Sai Sudharsan fell early in the IPL final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Sooryavanshi also set several records during the season, including most sixes in a single IPL campaign with 72 and becoming the fastest player to reach 1,000 IPL runs. (PC: India Today)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their second consecutive IPL title after defeating Gujarat Titans by six wickets in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Chasing 156, Virat Kohli produced a match-winning unbeaten 75 off 42 balls and guided RCB home with confidence. The veteran batter also recorded the fastest fifty of his IPL career despite battling an injury. Earlier, RCB's bowlers restricted GT to 155/8, with Rasikh Salam Dar taking three wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar claimed two each. Washington Sundar scored a fighting half-century for Gujarat, but RCB's all-round display secured another championship triumph. (PC: NDTV)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered troops to move deeper into Lebanon after Israeli forces captured the historic Beaufort Castle and a nearby strategic ridge.   "We have broken the barrier of fear," Netanyahu said, describing the capture as a major achievement. He added that Israel aims to expand control over areas previously held by Hezbollah.   The advance marks Israel's biggest move into Lebanon in 25 years. Fighting has continued despite a ceasefire announced in April.   According to Lebanese authorities, more than 3,370 people have been killed in the conflict. Israel says Hezbollah attacks have also displaced thousands of residents.

TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee was attacked during a visit to Sonarpur in West Bengal, where eggs, shoes and stones were allegedly thrown at him by a crowd. Banerjee accused the BJP of being behind the incident.   Responding to the allegations, the BJP said, "The drama is stale and no more eggciting." The party also claimed the attack reflected public anger and internal divisions within the Trinamool Congress.   Several opposition leaders condemned the incident and expressed support for Banerjee.   Police have arrested five people in connection with the attack. Investigations into the incident are continuing.

Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani said the company's US legal issues are now "behind us" and it is focusing on future growth. In his annual letter to shareholders, Adani said the group will continue investing heavily in infrastructure and AI-related sectors.   He highlighted investments in energy, transport, logistics, airports, data centres and manufacturing. The group spent more than ₹1.5 lakh crore on expansion during FY26.   Adani also said investor confidence remains strong, pointing to a ₹24,930 crore rights issue by Adani Enterprises.   "Before AI can think, energy must flow," he said, stressing the need for strong infrastructure. (PC: AP)

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is worsening rapidly, with more than 1,000 suspected cases and at least 246 deaths reported. Medical charity MSF described the situation as "deeply alarming" and warned that the outbreak is spreading faster than expected.   Neighbouring Uganda has confirmed nine cases and one death. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited the affected Ituri province to support response efforts.   Health workers are increasing testing and awareness campaigns. However, conflict, border closures and delayed aid deliveries are making containment difficult. The current Bundibugyo strain has no proven vaccine and remains a major concern. (PC: Anadolu via Getty Images)

The Delhi High Court has ruled against Google in a trademark dispute involving sanitaryware brand Hindware. The court said Google cannot allow rival companies to use the trademarked keyword "Hindware" in its advertising platform.   The case was filed by HSIL Limited, the parent company of Hindware. The company argued that competitors were using its trademark to attract customers searching for Hindware products.   The court rejected Google's claim that it was only an intermediary. It said Google plays an active role by selling keywords and earning revenue from ads.   The ruling could affect online advertising practices across several industries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised mango farmers during his monthly Mann Ki Baat programme. He said mango cultivation and the farmers involved are "very special for the agricultural economy of the country."   Modi highlighted India's famous mango varieties, including Alphonso, Kesar, Dussehri and Langra. He noted that Indian mangoes are reaching global markets, with exports going to countries such as the UAE, the US, Kuwait and Qatar.   The Prime Minister also spoke about the ongoing heatwave and advised people to stay hydrated. He highlighted river-cleaning efforts, wildlife conservation, astronomy clubs, and the return of ancient Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands. (PC: Pexels)

The death toll in the South Delhi building collapse has risen to five as rescue teams continue search operations. The five-storey building in Saidulajab collapsed on Saturday evening. It housed coaching centres, cafes and offices.   Several people were rescued, while others were taken to hospital. Authorities fear more people may be trapped under the debris.   The rescue operation has been underway for more than 18 hours. Teams from the NDRF, Delhi Police and other agencies are using heavy equipment and sniffer dogs.   Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta ordered an inquiry. Two MCD engineers have also been suspended over alleged lapses.