MasterChef India judges get schooled by their Mothers in a ‘Bachpan Ki Yaadein’ special episode

MasterChef India judges get schooled by their Mothers in a ‘Bachpan Ki Yaadein’ special episode There is something about the smell of a childhood kitchen that can turn the world’s toughest critics into little boys again. This week, MasterChef India isn't just about Michelin-standard plating; it’s about reliving the nostalgia that started it all. In a special episode themed ‘Bachpan Ki Yaadien,’ the kitchen is set to get a lot more crowded and a whole lot more emotional. In a first-of-its-kind moment, the show welcomes the mothers of celebrated chefs Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapur. Forget the pressure of the clock; the real ‘heat’ in the kitchen comes from the women who taught these maestros their very first lessons in flavor. In the latest promo, the three mothers are seen pulling the ears of their world-renowned sons. While the judges looked visibly emotional, Ranveer Brar broke the tension with his signature wit, chiming in: “My ears are long because they have been practicing pulling them since I was a kid!” The promo also revealed the mother saying, “We have not come to sit, we have come with a challenge. Today's challenge is to make a dish that will remind you of your childhood.” The episode takes a deeply personal turn during a conversation with contestant Saishree. When she curiously asked who Vikas Khanna gave his very first salary to, his mother’s warm reply melted hearts across the set: “His first salary came to me. To this day, he hasn’t kept anything for himself.” This special Bachpan Ki Yaadein episode isn’t just about food — it’s about gratitude, roots, sacrifices, and the unconditional love that defines childhood. Don't miss the special week of MasterChef India, Monday to Friday, at 8:00 PM on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV!

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Shriram Finance Earns Great Place To Work® Certification for the Third Consecutive Year Hyderabad, 17 February 2026: Shriram Finance Limited (SFL), the flagship company of the Shriram Group, has been certified as a Great Place To Work® in India for the third consecutive year. The recognition, awarded by Great Place To Work India, reflects the company’s continued commitment to building a culture rooted in trust, ownership, and long-term growth for its people. The recognition follows a rigorous assessment process that includes the globally benchmarked Great Place To Work Trust Index™ Employee Survey and a detailed culture audit. The evaluation captures employee feedback and reviews people practices to determine how effectively organizations create a high-trust, high-performance workplace. At Shriram Finance, entrepreneurship and accountability are embedded in the way teams operate. The company continues to invest in structured learning programs, leadership development, and initiatives that enhance employee engagement across its widespread branch network. With a strong focus on inclusion, equal opportunity, and well-being, SFL aims to provide meaningful careers while supporting long-term financial stability for its employees and their families. Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Parag Sharma - MD & CEO, Shriram Finance, said, “This recognition for the third consecutive year reaffirms our belief that our people are the foundation of our success. We have always focused on building a culture of trust, empowerment, and growth. Many of our leaders have grown within the organization, reflecting the opportunities we provide to individuals from diverse backgrounds. We remain committed to nurturing talent and creating an inclusive workplace where every colleague can thrive.” Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, with over three decades of research and insights from more than 100 million employees worldwide. Its Certification is regarded as a credible benchmark for organizations that prioritize employee trust, pride, and collaboration. As Shriram Finance continues to expand its presence across India, it remains focused on strengthening its people-first philosophy and setting higher standards for workplace excellence within the financial services sector.

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Mohit Chauhan, Taapsee Pannu, and Anubhav Sinha Champion Jal Vaani Nationwide Campaign with National Water Mission, Ministry of Jal Shakti and Urge Citizens to Save Water Daily India: Water shortages, polluted rivers, and irregular supply have quietly become part of daily life for many Indians. To address this, Mirchi has launched Jal Vaani, a nationwide campaign in association with the National Water Mission and the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Singer Mohit Chauhan, actor Taapsee Pannu, and filmmaker Anubhav Sinha are supporting the initiative to encourage people to take small steps to save water. Jal Vaani uses familiar voices and everyday situations to spark natural conversations about water. Rooted in the philosophy of Jal Sanchay, Jan Bhagidari, the campaign puts communities at the centre of the story. The message is clear: long-term water security depends on both policy and individual action. Each episode features government recognised Water Warriors from across India who have taken practical steps to conserve water and mobilise their communities. Mohit Chauhan expressed, "Water is something we all take for granted until it becomes scarce. Being part of Jal Vaani gave me a chance to remind people that every action counts. Turning off a tap, saving every drop, or just noticing wastage around you. These small steps build a bigger culture of care. I hope my voice helps people pause, reflect, and take action because water is a shared responsibility and the time to act is now. I'm happy that the Ministry of Jal Shakti and Mirchi have come up with this initiative, and I hope we start seeing these positive changes in the times to come." Taapsee Pannu emphasized the collective responsibility, stating, "Water conservation isn't just a policy matter, it's a personal responsibility each of us must embrace. Every drop we save today is a promise we keep for future generations." Echoing a shared commitment to sustainable water management, the Water Warriors who were part of Mirchi Jal Vaani articulated a unified vision, stating, "India's water situation is a result of years of overuse, pollution and disregard for natural limits. The challenge is not just about availability, it is about awareness and attitude. Governments can create systems and policies, but conservation will only succeed when citizens recognise water as a shared and finite resource." The campaign is supported through RJ-led digital content, helping the message reach urban audiences and younger listeners who are shaping everyday consumption habits. Through Jal Vaani, the National Water Mission and the Ministry of Jal Shakti hope to inspire more people to treat water as a precious, shared resource.

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Rajnandini Pawar Crowned Femina Miss India Maharashtra 2026, hosted by Future Varsity Education Group of Institutions The spectacular high-fashion finale merges glamour with a powerful new initiative to promote the vision of Maharashtra Tourism. Mumbai, 17 February 2026 - Future Varsity Education Group proudly presented the Femina Miss India Maharashtra 2026 State Finale in an evening defined by couture glamour, elevated stage artistry, and contemporary Indian elegance. Hosted by Future Varsity Education education group under the vision and direction of the Miss India Organization, The TImes Group, the prestigious showcase was held in Mumbai at the Bal Gandharva Rangmandir Auditorium, bringing together the finest blend of fashion, confidence, innovation, and purpose-driven modern womanhood. In a historic milestone for Indian higher education, Future Varsity Education Group (FVEG) has been granted the official license to host and organize Femina Miss India state pageants across the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana. The entire event was exclusively managed by Future Varsity students, offering them unparalleled real-world exposure to one of India’s most iconic platforms. From strategic planning and production to creative direction, styling, backstage coordination, media handling, and on-ground execution, students take the lead in shaping the Femina Miss India experience in their respective states. This initiative exemplifies Future Varsity’s industry-integrated learning model, where education extends far beyond classrooms into high-impact, large-scale experiential projects. Headquartered in Mumbai with operations in Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Dubai, Future Varsity Education Group stands at the forefront of new-age higher education. In collaboration with the University of Mumbai and affiliated institutions, central universities, and global academic partners, Future Varsity delivers industry-focused, globally relevant programs that seamlessly combine academic excellence with professional readiness. With an A++ NAAC-accredited university partner and over 15,000 successful alumni, the group has firmly established itself as a leader in experiential learning and industry immersion. Students from Future Varsity’s diverse verticals - NAEMD, NASM, NAFDI, GAPA, LSI, IMSR, and LivGlobal - collaborate seamlessly to organise the event under the guidance and supervision of Miss India Organization, The Times Group. This partnership embodies the institution’s forward-thinking approach and the pageant’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and youth-driven excellence. Promoting the Vision of Maharashtra Tourism. Aligning with the vision of Maharashtra Tourism, Future Varsity is stepping beyond fashion to actively promote the state's rich culture and heritage through the finalists of the pageant. The evening opened with a powerful recap of the state selection journey - featuring 10 large-scale auditions across Mumbai and Pune, witnessing participation from 700+ contestants, and culminating in the selection of the Top 16 finalists from Maharashtra, each representing ambition, individuality, and next-generation leadership. The stage came alive with the Finalist Introduction Round, followed by the technically polished Ramp Walk Round, expressive Introduction Round, and an engaging Q&A Round, offering a complete showcase of beauty, intellect, confidence, and stage command. Celebrating individuality and standout attributes, sub-category titles were announced: Miss Beautiful Smile - Parinaz Cooper Miss Glowing Skin - Samaira Shah Miss Rampwalk - Aarya Khairnar Miss Photogenic - Tamanna Bharat Miss Congeniality -Parinaz Cooper The defining moment of the evening arrived with the grand Crowning Moment, where Rajnandini Pawar was officially crowned Miss India Maharashtra 2026, marking the beginning of her journey toward the national stage. The prestigious finale was evaluated by an eminent jury panel comprising celebrated names across fashion, business, social impact, and wellness. The panel included renowned Fashion Designer Ken Ferns, Titleholder Nikita Porwal (Femina Miss India World 2024), Natasha Grover (Brand & Operations Head, International Pageants, Miss India Organization, The Times Group), Mehermeet Kaur (Femina Miss India Haryana 2023), Wellness and Lifestyle Mentor Parinita Mehta of MDM Group, Industry Leader Nimish Ajmera of Ajmera Group of Companies, and Arshia Rashid, (Femina Miss India Maharashtra & West 2024). Their collective expertise ensured a holistic, merit-driven evaluation celebrating not just beauty, but intelligence, purpose, and personality.

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INOX India’s LNG Systems Power Indian Railways’ LNG Fuel Trial for DEMU Trains INOX India provided 2,200L LNG Storage & Regasification Systems for integration into 1400 HP Dual Power Unit Cars (DPUs) of Dual-Fuel DEMU (Diesel Electric Multiple Unit) trains. The introduction of LNG as a fuel would enable nearly 40% substitution of diesel, promoting fuel efficiency and cleaner operations for short and medium-distance rail routes INOX India is the sole manufacturer & supplier of such LNG systems in India Vadodara, Feb 17, 2026: Indian Railways recently marked a historic milestone by successfully operationalizing the nation’s first LNG–diesel dual-fuel DEMU train at Sabarmati, Ahmedabad. INOX India Limited (INOXCVA), one of the world’s leading providers of cryogenic technology solutions, supplied advanced 2,200-litre LNG Receiving, Storage and Regasification Systems for integration with 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPUs) of Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains for Indian Railways. Engineered to enable seamless dual-fuel operations using LNG and diesel, these systems support cleaner energy adoption by reducing diesel consumption and substituting LNG by up to 40%, while significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This deployment marks a major step in advancing energy-efficient, low-emission rail mobility and reinforces INOX India’s role as a key enabler of India’s rail decarbonization journey. The dual-fuel initiative was envisioned by erstwhile Indian Railways’ Alternative Fuels Division (IRAOF) to convert an initial batch of 10 DPUs from conventional diesel engines to a dual-fuel hybrid model running on cleaner LNG as well as Diesel. INOXCVA has been instrumental in enabling this transition. The company had earlier delivered two units which underwent extensive and successful trials and certifications by Indian Railways at the Sabarmati Division. Following their proven performance, Indian Railways is now ready to induct additional units and INOXCVA ready to deliver these units as a part of its contract. The technology deployed by INOXCVA enables nearly 40% substitution of diesel with LNG making the DEMU fleet significantly more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. The DEMUs are extensively used across India, serving India’s short- and medium-distance routes. Commenting on this historic milestone, Deepak Acharya, Chief Executive Officer, INOX India Ltd, said, ““At INOX India, we take immense pride in partnering with Indian Railways on its journey toward green mobility by delivering world-class cryogenic systems that enable cleaner, more efficient fuel pathways. The ability to substitute up to 40% of diesel with LNG is not just a technological milestone—it marks a decisive shift in how large-scale rail mobility can be decarbonized while enhancing operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. As Indian Railways accelerates the adoption of dual-fuel solutions across its network, we see LNG as a powerful transition fuel and liquid hydrogen as the next frontier for zero-emission rail locomotives. Backed by deep R&D capabilities and decades of cryogenic expertise, INOXCVA remains at the forefront of innovation—developing future-ready solutions that align with India’s clean mobility vision and reinforce the nation’s long-term energy security.” The LNG Fuel Tank system was delivered to Indian Railways through CLH Gaseous Fuel Applications Pvt. Ltd., and INOXCVA remains the only technology provider in India to have successfully delivered, tested, and validated this innovative cryogenic LNG systems for rail applications. With plans underway to double the on-board LNG capacity, the trains would be able travel longer distances over the current shorter hauls, INOXCVA’s technology is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward energy-efficient and environmentally responsible rail operations. CLH Gaseous Fuel was responsible for the engine conversion from standalone diesel to dual-fuel (LNG + diesel) clean fuel.

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Singer Abhay Jodhpurkar talks about his experience of working with A.R. Rahman in Gandhi Talks With the latest release, Gandhi Talks, capturing hearts for its poignant storytelling and soulful music, two songs in particular, ‘Jara Jara Man Khulavate’ and ‘Angai’ (Lullaby) from the Marathi version of the film, composed by A.R. Rahman, are making waves and audiences are thrilled to learn that the versatile and soulful vocals behind these tracks belong to none other than the talented and renowned singer Abhay Jodhpurkar. Both tracks have emerged as breakout hits from the film’s album, celebrated for their evocative intensity in one and romantic, heartfelt vibe in the other, with Abhay’s powerful voice adding depth to the film’s narrative and stealing the spotlight. Apart from the film tracks, Abhay also lent his voice to ‘Sunhari Kirane’ for the audio launch of Gandhi Talks, which was unveiled on 26th January. The song’s video, currently streaming on Zee Music Company’s official channel, has been garnering appreciation for its emotive melody and heartfelt rendition, further adding to the film’s musical appeal. 'Jara Jara Man Khulavate' is a tender romantic ballad set against the quaint streets of Bombay, picturised on Aditi Rao Hydari and Vijay Sethupathi. The track beautifully captures the quiet intimacy of their secret romance, unfolding through gentle, unspoken moments and subtle emotions. With its soft, lyrical mood, the song adds warmth and depth to the film’s narrative. In contrast to the previous song and in a completely different mood, 'Angai' (Lullaby) arrives at a poignant turning point in the film and carries a deep emotional undercurrent. The song weaves tenderness with an underlying sense of pain and longing. Soothing yet haunting in its tonality, the lullaby reflects the emotional weight of the moment, with poignant lyrics amplifying its impact. After the humongous commercial success of the songs and his collaboration with A.R. Rahman, Abhay Jodhpurkar shared with excitement, “It’s an honour to be part of such a beautiful and widely celebrated project, especially with a maestro like A.R. Rahman. I feel truly overwhelmed to see that both tracks are still trending and receiving so much love from audiences. I’m filled with immense gratitude for all the warmth and appreciation.” “It’s always a lifetime experience working with Rahman Sir. Every time I sing for him, I discover a new nuance about my own voice. Fortunately, I had the privilege of being launched by Rahman Sir back in 2013 with my Tamil debut in Mani Ratnam Sir’s Kadal. Ever since then, he has given me so many beautiful gems throughout my playback singing career. It was in early 2022 when I was called to his Mumbai studio to record for the background score of Gandhi Talks. We were jamming all night and recording scratches, and that’s when the lullaby happened. I had a sore throat that day, but somehow that husk added to the texture of the song, since it plays on the radio in the film”, he added. Sharing his experience of working on a largely silent, narrative-driven film, Abhay adds, “Working with director Kishore Belekar was also a revelation because I had never worked on a silent film before. Since the music carries the narrative, the responsibility to do justice to the emotions felt even greater. But Kishore Sir’s vision was so clear that everything just flowed. I was given complete freedom to express myself as an artist. It’s definitely one of the best working experiences of my life, and I’m really proud to be associated with this project. Gandhi Talks has a big place in my heart.” Abhay Jodhpurkar made his playback singing debut in 2013 with A.R. Rahman’s Moongil Thottam from Mani Ratnam’s Kadal, which earned him multiple accolades, including a Filmfare nomination. Over the years, he has sung over 150 songs across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema. He later made his Bollywood debut with Mere Naam Tu from ‘Shahrukh Khan’s Zero, composed by Ajay-Atul, which brought him widespread recognition. Today, Abhay has lent his voice to over 300 projects across 14 languages, continuing to carve a niche for himself with his soulful and emotionally rich singing.

Prayer Meeting Held for Veteran Filmmaker Anand Sagar in Mumbai

Prayer Meeting Held for Veteran Filmmaker Anand Sagar in Mumbai A solemn prayer meeting in memory of filmmaker Anand Sagar was held in Mumbai on Monday, 16th February 2026. Family members, close friends and leading members of the film as well as television fraternity gathered to pay their respects and offer prayers. Among those present were Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, Poonam Sinha, Ramesh Sippy, Kiran Juneja, Poonam Dhillon, Padmini Kolhapure, Sonu Nigam, Suresh Oberoi, Anu Malik, Shashi Ranjan, Anu Ranjan, Raza Murad, Sheeba and Kiku Sharda, to name a few. The gathering reflected the immense respect Anand Sagar commanded across the industry. Sagar family expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and extended their support during this difficult time. Anand Sagar was a celebrated Indian film producer and director who carried forward one of the most influential creative legacies in Indian cinema and television. The son of the legendary Ramanand Sagar, Anand combined tradition with innovation, helping shape both the golden era of Hindi cinema and the evolution of Indian television. Born in Lahore in undivided India, Anand Sagar witnessed the upheaval of Partition before moving to Mumbai with his family. In the city that would become the heart of his creative journey, he along with his father established the iconic production house Sagar Arts—a banner that would go on to define epic storytelling on both the big and small screens. Anand began his film career as an assistant director to his father on the film Aarzoo, starring Rajendra Kumar and Sadhana. This formative experience laid the foundation for a career steeped in cinematic excellence. He was associated with several successful films, including Aankhen, Geet, and Charas—each contributing to his growing reputation within the industry. His first directorial venture, Humrahi, starring Randhir Kapoor and Tanuja, was a notable success and firmly established him as a capable director in his own right. Over the years, he collaborated with some of the biggest stars of the era, including Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Mala Sinha, and Raj Babbar amongst others. The songs ‘Rambha Ho’ and ‘Hari Om Hari’ both are from his movies ‘Armaan’ and ‘Pyara Dushman’. They were breakthrough’s for both Bappi Lahiri & Usha Uthup, and are still popular even today. While his film career was distinguished, Anand Sagar’s contribution to Indian television proved historic. Under the banner of Sagar Arts, he worked closely with his father on mythological and fantasy serials that captivated millions. Foremost among them was Ramayan, a cultural phenomenon that remains one of the most successful and widely watched television shows in Indian history. The show redefined family viewing in India and cemented the Sagars’ place in the nation’s cultural consciousness. Other major successes included Shri Krishna and Alif Laila, both of which showcased the production house’s ability to blend devotion, drama, and visual spectacle. After the passing of Ramanand Sagar, Anand continued to lead Sagar Arts into a new era. Working alongside his son Shakti Sagar Chopra, he produced successful television series such as Hatim, Dharti Ka Veer Yodha Prithviraj Chauhan, and Sai Baba. In 2009, he revisited his father’s magnum opus with a new adaptation of Ramayan, featuring Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee, introducing the epic to a new generation of viewers. Even in his later years, Anand remained deeply involved in storytelling, producing an upcoming feature film written and directed by his sons Shakti and Amar—demonstrating his enduring passion for cinema until his final days. Anand Sagar’s life was defined by resilience, creativity, and devotion to storytelling. From the silver screen to the sacred narratives that united millions before their television sets, he helped craft stories that became part of India’s collective memory. He is survived by his wife Nisha, his sons Shakti and Amar, and his daughter Gauri. Through them—and through the countless stories he helped bring to life—his legacy continues to shine brightly in the annals of Indian entertainment.