Sports

Goa Has Sporting Talent but Needs the Right Guidance and Support: Mandar Rao Dessai

Tanisha Cardozo

Former Indian national team footballer and Chennaiyin FC star Mandar Rao Dessai believes Goa continues to nurture incredible sporting talent but needs stronger support systems to help athletes reach their potential. Speaking at a sports kit distribution event in Arpora–Nagoa, Mandar emphasized that while infrastructure and opportunities have improved, young players still require mentorship, guidance, and community backing to succeed. He urged families, local bodies, and sports organizations to invest in nurturing youth talent early, highlighting discipline, dedication, and passion as keys to Goa’s sporting future.

Events in Goa

LTIMindtree Partners with IFFI and NFDC to Launch India’s First AI Film Festival and Hackathon in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

LTIMindtree, in collaboration with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), is set to debut India’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Film Festival and Hackathon during the 56th edition of IFFI in Goa, from November 20 to 28, 2025. The initiative aims to bridge cinema and emerging technologies, offering filmmakers, technologists, and creators a space to experiment with AI-driven storytelling tools and showcase innovative cinematic expressions.

Human Interest

“Am I Still Dreaming?” — Palash Muchhal Celebrates Fiancée Smriti Mandhana’s Historic World Cup Win

Tanisha Cardozo

Moments after India’s women’s cricket team lifted their maiden ODI World Cup trophy by defeating South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, Smriti Mandhana’s fiancé, filmmaker and composer Palash Muchhal, shared an emotional post celebrating her triumph. Posting a picture with the newly crowned champion, he wrote, “Am I still dreaming?” The couple, who have kept their relationship private for years, are reportedly set to tie the knot in Sangli, Maharashtra, later this month.

TechPulse

Lenskart Set to Launch AI-Powered Smart Glasses in December, Built on Gemini 2.5

Tanisha Cardozo

Eyewear giant Lenskart is preparing to debut its first AI-powered smart glasses, internally called “B by Lenskart Smartglasses”, by the end of December. The device, likely powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chipset, will integrate AI-driven interactions, health insights, and even UPI payment support. The launch is expected shortly after Lenskart’s stock market listing on November 10, signaling the company’s transition from a D2C eyewear retailer to a technology-led lifestyle brand.

International

G-Dragon Makes History as Youngest Recipient of South Korea’s Prestigious Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit

Tanisha Cardozo

BIGBANG leader and global icon G-Dragon has officially been awarded the Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit, making him the youngest honoree in history. The recognition celebrates his groundbreaking influence on K-pop and his pivotal role in spreading the Korean Wave (Hallyu) across the world.