Top 5 Challenging Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra for Adventure Seekers

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Maharashtra is a haven for trekkers, especially during the monsoon season when the Sahyadri ranges transform into lush green carpets with roaring waterfalls and misty cliffs. While many trails cater to beginners, thrill-seekers and seasoned hikers often crave a more challenging adventure.

Here’s a curated list of the top 5 difficult monsoon treks in Maharashtra that promise both breathtaking beauty and adrenaline-pumping climbs.

1. Alang-Madan-Kulang (AMK) Fort Trek

Arguably one of the toughest treks in Maharashtra, the AMK trek in the Nashik region is not for the faint-hearted. It involves steep rock patches, technical climbing, and rappelling. The views of ancient forts, caves, and valleys make it totally worth the effort.

Difficulty: Very Challenging
Trek Duration: 2–3 days

2. Harishchandragad via Nalichi Vaat

While Harishchandragad has multiple routes, Nalichi Vaat is the most difficult. This route includes steep vertical climbs and narrow rock patches. During monsoon, it gets even riskier with slippery surfaces.

Difficulty: Extreme
Trek Duration: 10–12 hours (one way)

3. Rajgad to Torna Fort Trek

A thrilling ridge walk between two iconic forts near Pune, this trek challenges your stamina and balance. Trekking during the monsoon offers panoramic views and slippery terrain that intensifies the difficulty.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Trek Duration: 6–8 hours (one way)

4. Lingana Fort Trek

Located near Raigad, Lingana is a climber’s paradise. It involves rock climbing with no proper trail and needs proper gear and experienced guides. Not recommended for solo trekkers.

Difficulty: Difficult
Trek Duration: 1 day (technical climb)

5. Salher Fort Trek

Salher is the highest fort in Maharashtra and offers a long, steep ascent. The route is remote and physically demanding, but the top gives a surreal view of the Baglan range.

Difficulty: Tough
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Monsoon trekking is thrilling, but safety is key. Always go with a group or experienced guide, wear proper trekking shoes, and check the weather forecast. These treks are perfect for adventurers looking to push their limits and soak in the raw beauty of Maharashtra’s monsoon landscapes.

Are Anti-Ageing Injections Safe? Doctors Raise Concerns After Shefali Jariwala’s Death

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The sudden death of actress and influencer Shefali Jariwala has shocked her fans and the entertainment industry. Though the official cause remains unclear, reports suggesting she underwent an anti-ageing procedure shortly before her passing have reignited debates about the safety of cosmetic injections like Botox and dermal fillers.

Doctors, including cardiologists and plastic surgeons, are now raising serious concerns about these treatments, especially when not administered properly or without thorough medical evaluation.

What Are Anti-Ageing Injections?

Anti-ageing injections—such as Botox, dermal fillers, and collagen stimulators—are designed to reduce wrinkles, plump the skin, and provide a youthful appearance. While these procedures are usually considered safe when performed by certified professionals, risks can increase when done in non-medical settings or by underqualified individuals.

Medical Experts Speak Out

Following the reports, a senior cardiologist warned that such procedures can carry hidden risks—especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, clotting disorders, or allergies. “Even something as common as a dermal filler can lead to complications like vascular blockage, allergic reaction, or even cardiac stress in vulnerable individuals,” he explained.

Plastic surgeons also weighed in, highlighting that many people opt for injections without fully understanding the risks. “These treatments are popularized by celebrities and social media, but not everyone is a suitable candidate,” one expert noted. A detailed health assessment should always precede any cosmetic procedure.

Do These Injections Even Work?

The effectiveness of anti-ageing injections varies by person. While Botox works by relaxing facial muscles to smooth out lines, fillers plump up the skin. Both offer temporary results and need repeated sessions. However, they don’t reverse ageing—they only reduce visible signs for a short duration.

While there is no official confirmation linking Shefali Jariwala’s death directly to cosmetic injections, her case has served as a wake-up call. Experts now urge people to consult licensed professionals, understand the risks, and prioritize health over quick beauty fixes.

Beauty is important—but safety comes first. If you’re considering anti-ageing treatments, make sure you’re making an informed decision with the guidance of a qualified doctor.

Naseeruddin Shah Makes A Cryptic Post After Deleting FB Post Supporting Diljit Dosanjh

Amidst escalating tensions in the Indian film industry concerning collaborations across borders, veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah recently made waves by publicly supporting singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh.

Dosanjh, the star of Sardaar Ji 3, has been facing calls for a boycott from the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) due to sharing screen space with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The controversy ignited after it was revealed that the popular Punjabi franchise’s latest installment features Aamir in a prominent role.

Naseeruddin Shah, however, came to Diljit Dosanjh’s defense in a strongly worded Facebook post that has since been removed. In the deleted post, the actor addressed what he termed “politically motivated targeting.”

Following its removal, the veteran actor has now shared a cryptic note on the concept of “truth.” He wrote, “It is almost impossible to carry the torch of truth through a crowd without singeing somebody’s beard — Georg Christoph Lichtenberg, scientist and philosopher (1 Jul 1742-1799).”

What is your take on this matter?

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Series May Launch with 7 New Watch Faces

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The new Galaxy Watch 8 range and the latest Galaxy Z foldable may be unveiled at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, scheduled for July 9 in New York. Expectations for the next Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 models have already been alluded to in rumors. According to a recent leak, multiple new watch faces are expected to be available for the Galaxy Watch 8 series. The Galaxy Watch 7 Manager app purportedly contained references to the new watch faces.

The Galaxy Watch 8’s New Faces from Samsung Were Leaked

Through an APK analysis of the Galaxy Watch 7 Manager, Android Authority discovered several new watch faces for the Galaxy Watch 8 series. Seven new watch faces—Circle Info Board, Gradient Info Board, Heritage Classic, Interactive Number, Minimal Analog, Minimal Digital, and Sporty Classic—are supposedly going to be available in the new wearable lineup.

Additionally, the newspaper released pictures showcasing the next watch faces’ designs. Both the Gradient Info Board and the Circle Info Board provide comprehensive data. While the Heritage Classic watch face seems to have a guilloche style, the Interactive Number watch face is displayed with blocks and numerals. Pictures of the Minimal Analog and Minimal Digital watch faces suggest a minimalistic design. It seems that the Sporty Classic has an analog style.

Samsung has not formally announced the release of the Galaxy Watch 8 series. At its Galaxy Unpacked presentation, scheduled for July 9 in New York, the company is anticipated to reveal the lineup in addition to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.

A squircle design is anticipated for the alleged Sumsung Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. There are rumors that the standard Galaxy Watch 8 will be available in 40mm and 44mm sizes. The Exynos W1000 chip and One UI 8 Watch are anticipated to power them out of the box. With a 450mAh battery, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic may come in a single 47mm size option.

Konkona Sen Sharma Remembers Irrfan Khan While Promoting Metro…In Dino

Actress Konkona Sensharma, known for her captivating performances, shared a unique professional bond with the late Irrfan Khan, starring alongside him in several films. While many of their collaborations didn’t achieve significant box office success, their on-screen chemistry in the 2007 film Life In A… Metro remains a fan favorite and is fondly remembered.

As Konkona anticipates the release of Metro… In Dino, a spiritual successor to that beloved movie, she reflected on her time working with Irrfan, revealing that she never hesitated to accept projects that featured him.

While speaking in an interview, Konkona Sensharma mentioned that she and Irrfan Khan had done “some random films together”. The actress elaborated, “A lot of times, it happened that somebody came to me with a film and said that Irrfan is doing it, so I used to feel that if he is doing it, then it must be decent.”

Konkona also reminisced about the enjoyable experience of filming Life In A… Metro with Irrfan. She recalled, “I think shooting Metro (Life In A Metro) was also great fun. He had this ability to incorporate the real surroundings, just take that stimulus. So, once I was doing something (in a scene), and something fell, so after seeing that, even Irrfan dropped something, and then I dropped something. So, it became a fun fight like this, and Anurag loved it.” For Konkona, working with Irrfan Khan was “nice, spontaneous, improvising, and nothing fake or designed.”

A particularly interesting anecdote from Konkona was how the iconic rooftop scene with Irrfan Khan in Life In A… Metro came to be. She shared that both actors were waiting in their van when director Anurag Basu called them up and narrated the scene. “We had not taken things seriously at that time, and it turned out so lovely,” she concluded.

Looking ahead, Konkona Sensharma is poised to enchant audiences once more with her role in Anurag Basu’s Metro…In Dino. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta, Ali Fazal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Pankaj Tripathi, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Sara Ali Khan. It’s slated to hit theaters on July 4, 2025.

Bollywood’s Leading Ladies Who Do It All

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Bollywood boasts actresses who are a complete package of entertainment. Beyond showcasing their unmatched versatility as actors, these divas also display their talent through singing and dancing, a package that’s rarely found in a new-gen actor. Here’s looking at the top 5 actresses who are triple threats, who can sing, dance, and act!

  • Priyanka Chopra: Global icon Priyanka Chopra is an all-rounder and there’s no denying that. In addition to being a versatile powerhouse, Priyanka displayed her dancing range in songs like Ram Chaahe Leela, Assalaam-E-Ishqum, Pinga, and more. Being a passionate singer too, she showcased her singing talent in songs like Exotic, In My City, I Can’t Make You Love Me, and more.
  • Tara Sutaria: We all know Tara Sutaria as an actress, but she’s also a trained singer with multiple solo concerts in India and abroad. She even recorded the full album for Ek Villain Returns, including the song Shaamat with Ankit Tiwari that has crossed over a 100 million views that showcases her vocal talent. Having had a passion for music since her early days, sources say Tara is set to return to her musical roots this year. Alongside her acting in Apurva, Marjaavaan, Tadap, and more, she has also impressed with her dance performances in songs like The Jawaani Song and Jalwanuma, proving she’s a true all-rounder.
  • Alia Bhatt: With projects like Gangubai Kathiawadi, Raazi, Darlings and more, Alia Bhatt has established herself as a versatile icon, who has also displayed her dancing mettle in songs like Ghar More Pardesiya, The Disco Song, Kar Gayi Chull and others. Additionally, she has also showcased her passion for singing through songs like Samjhawan, Ikk Kudi and more, ensuring to leave everyone spellbound with her vocal range.
  • Shraddha Kapoor: It’s very well-known that Shraddha Kapoor is a triple threat! She impressed everyone with her singing ability through Galliyan, Sab Tera and more. In addition to leaving everyone stunned with her performances in Haseena Parkar, Stree, Aashiqui 2, Chhichhore and others, she has also cast a spell around her admirers through her dancing prowess in songs like Cham Cham, Tere Pyaar Me, Show Me The Thumka and others.
  • Parineeti Chopra: Though Parineeti Chopra chooses to stay away from the limelight, she has showcased her acting range in films like Amar Singh Chamkila, Ishaqzaade, Kesari and has also displayed her dancing range in Jhallah Wallah, Drama Queen, Shake it Like Shammi and others too. She explored her passion for singing with soulful songs like Teri Mitti, Maana Ke Hum Yaar Nahin and Zehnaseeb among others.

On one hand, these actresses don’t fail to stun everyone with their acting range and on the other hand, they completely stun everyone with their singing and dancing skills.

Irfan Pathan On What Indian Bowlers Lacked In First Test As They Can’t Take 20 Wickets

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In the thrilling opening Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Headingley, Leeds, the Indian men’s cricket team faced a significant hurdle: they couldn’t dismiss all 20 English batsmen, ultimately leading to a defeat as England successfully chased down a historic target to take a 1-0 series lead. The Indian bowlers had moments of brilliance in the first innings, with Jasprit Bumrah bagging five wickets, Mohammed Siraj two, and Prasidh Krishna three. However, the second innings saw a different story unfold, as Bumrah and Siraj went wicketless, while Prasidh and Shardul Thakur each managed to pick up two wickets.

Ahead of the second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham, set to commence on Wednesday, July 2, former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan offered his insights into the intricacies of pace bowling, shedding light on why the Indian bowlers might have struggled to claim all the wickets. Pathan emphasized the importance of consistent execution and adapting to different batsmen.

“When it comes to bowling, they bowl well in patches. That is one thing. Executing the length according to the batsmen, which we lacked,” Irfan remarked during an interaction facilitated by Sony Sports. He elaborated on the specific challenge posed by England’s opening pair, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett. “What was the problem is bowling to Zach Crawley and bowling to Ben Duckett who are partners. They both have different reach,” he explained.

Pathan further highlighted the need for bowlers to adjust their lines and lengths when facing a right-hand, left-hand combination at the crease. “So, first of all, you need to have adjustment between right-hand, left-hand combination. Obviously, that’s a line which you need to adjust as a bowler in a same over. Suppose if I’m bowling first ball to Zach Crawley, he will change the strike to Ben Duckett and in the second ball, Ben Duckett will come to the crease.” He concluded by stressing the critical role of adjusting length on true pitches, particularly in countries like South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA nations). “The similar length which Zach Crawley plays on the front foot, exactly the same length Ben Duckett is cutting. So, adjusting the particular length is very very important and that’s the key for all our success in the history when you go to SENA countries because the pitches are true. You need to actually bowl that right length,” he added.

He does make sense, what do you say?

Here Is Why Indian Cricketers Were Asked To Remain Indoors By Birmingham Police

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The Indian cricket team, currently residing in central Birmingham, received an advisory to remain inside their hotel after authorities discovered a suspicious package near Centenary Square. A source from the BCCI confirmed to PTI that players were instructed not to leave their accommodations, following an alert issued by the Birmingham City Centre Police on social media.

It’s common for Indian cricketers to explore areas close to their hotel, and leading up to the second Test, they had frequently been spotted on the lively Broad Street.

While eight players, including captain Shubman Gill, attended a training session at Edgbaston, the remaining ten squad members were given the day off. The Birmingham City Centre Police had posted on X, stating, “We’ve currently got a cordon in place around Centenary Square, Birmingham city centre, while we investigate a suspicious package.” Their message, issued just before 3 PM, also noted that “a number of buildings have been evacuated as a precaution while it’s assessed. Please avoid the area.”

However, approximately an hour later, the police lifted the cordon, indicating the situation had been resolved.

Exclusive: Big Boss Fame Sana Sulta Responds Gracefully to Khushi Mukherjee Outfit Controversy

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Sana Sulta has taken a composed and mature stance in response to the viral video featuring Khushi Mukherjee’s revealing outfits. While many public figures have reacted with either harsh criticism or vocal support, Sana chose to remain neutral and dignified. In an exclusive chat with TimesApplaud, the influencer was asked about Khushi’s bold fashion choices but gracefully declined to pass judgment. Without directly siding with anyone, Sana emphasized that it’s a personal matter, adding that she neither has the right nor the inclination to speak on someone else’s life decisions.

In the interview, Sana Sulta candidly said, “Main bol kar apna muh kyun kharab karun? Yeh unka take hai, unki personal life hai. Mujhe uske upar kuch bolna nahi hai, na hi mera koi haq banta hai. Agar woh khush hain aisa karne mein, toh unki marzi. Jisko jo karna hota hai, woh waise bhi karta hi hai. Aapki aur meri class ya status kuch aur hoti, toh zindagi bhi shayad kuch aur hoti — hai na? Par aisa toh hai nahi. Toh jisko jo karna hai kare, main bol kar apna mood kyun kharab karun? Mera toh yahi maanna hai: jeene do, aur jeene do. Jisko jo karna hai, kare.”

Her words reflected a “live and let live” mindset, standing apart from the judgmental noise on social media. By refusing to get dragged into the controversy, Sana conveyed a sense of maturity and respect for personal boundaries, reinforcing that not every public figure needs to offer an opinion on someone else’s choices.

While Sana Sulta chose a diplomatic and non-judgmental approach, Shiv Thakare took a much harsher stand on Khushi Mukherjee’s outfit. In a viral clip, the Bigg Boss alum didn’t hold back, calling her bold fashion a desperate attempt for attention. He went as far as to say, “Mummy ko do thappad lagane chahiye,” and added that if someone is appearing before the media in such outfit just for publicity, it’s the family’s responsibility to step in. The sharp contrast between Shiv’s blunt criticism and Sana’s composed neutrality has sparked discussions online, highlighting how celebrities respond differently to the same issue.

About Khushi’s Outfit:

Khushi Mukherjee’s outfit that stirred controversy was a bold black cut-out dress featuring a backless design and thigh-high slit. The revealing look instantly caught the attention of the paparazzi and social media users. Known for her daring fashion sense, Khushi paired the outfit with high heels and minimal accessories, confidently posing for the cameras. In a previous outing, she was also seen in a golden halter-neck dress with a deep neckline and visible thong straps, which had also sparked mixed reactions. Her style choices have now become a talking point across the internet, dividing opinions between bold self-expression and public decency.

Social Media Reactions:

Khushi Mukherjee’s daring outfit has set social media alight, leaving users split down the middle. Fans praise her fearless spirit, saying she champions body positivity and personal freedom, yet many others label the look as “vulgar” and call for more modesty in public moments. Remarks rolled in everywhere, from “She’s fearless and owning it” to “This is too much for the streets.” Online chatter heated up further after Shiv Thakare offered his blunt critique, while Sana Sultana’s calm, neutral take was praised as mature. The whole debate keeps trending, shining a light on the tug-of-war between individual choice and social rules that still stirs in the spotlight.

Abhishek Bachchan Reveals Wife Aishwarya’s Advice On Dealing With Negativity

Abhishek Bachchan recently shared his experiences with the constant negativity that often comes with being in the entertainment industry. In a candid interview, the actor discussed the criticism he receives and revealed the insightful advice his wife, actress Aishwarya Rai, gave him for handling it.

During an interview, Abhishek was asked about an earlier statement he made regarding his desire to keep everyone happy. He affirmed that this ambition still holds true for him, despite acknowledging the challenges. “Yes. Time teaches you that sometimes you can be foolish. Don’t be so idealistic. But I don’t ever want to let go of that. The day I say yaa I can’t make everyone happy, this is me, take it or leave it, for a film actor, it’s very arrogant and it will be the death of you. There will be no more desire to improve. I understand that it’s a lot more challenging than you say it,” he explained.

Reflecting on his wife’s guidance, Abhishek added, “But I still want to make everyone happy. I still pay attention to all the negative reviews and anybody who says negative things. Sadly, as human nature pays more attention to negativity than positivity. And Aishwarya always said, it’s water off a duck’s back. Why are you concentrating on the negative stuff? Concentrate on the positive, that so much outweighs anything else.”

His words offer a glimpse into his approach to criticism and the grounding influence of his wife’s perspective.