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2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift: New Look, More Luxury

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: Skoda Auto India has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift, bringing a significant mid-life refresh to the SUV that first pioneered the brand’s India 2.0 strategy. This update introduces sharper aesthetics, a more premium cabin, and a notable change in the powertrain department.

Bold New Look & 3 Fresh Colours

The 2026 Kushaq sports a more aggressive front fascia, featuring a revised “butterfly” grille with an illuminated light band, similar to its larger sibling, the Kodiaq. The LED headlamps are now sleeker, complemented by a new bumper design and sequential turn indicators.

While the side profile remains familiar, it gets a fresh set of 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. The rear is highlighted by a new connected LED tail-lamp cluster and an illuminated “SKODA” wordmark. Adding to its flair, Skoda has introduced three new colour options:

  • Shimla Green
  • Cherry Red
  • Steel Grey

These join the existing palette of Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, and Deep Black.

Interior & Segment-First Features

The cabin has received a massive tech boost to keep up with rivals. The most talked-about addition is the panoramic sunroof, a feature long-requested by Indian buyers.

Key Highlights:

  • Segment-First Rear Massage Seats: Bringing a touch of luxury to the mid-size SUV segment.
  • Advanced Displays: A larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display with turn-by-turn navigation and a 10.1-inch infotainment system.
  • AI Integration: The infotainment now features a Google-powered AI companion for smarter voice commands.
  • Comfort: 6-way powered and ventilated front seats, dual-color ambient lighting, and updated leatherette upholstery.

Engine, Transmission & Performance

Skoda continues to offer its acclaimed turbo-petrol lineup, but with a major update to the entry-level gearbox:

EnginePower / TorqueTransmission Options
1.0L TSI (3-cyl)115 PS / 178 Nm6-speed Manual / New 8-speed Torque Converter
1.5L TSI (4-cyl)150 PS / 250 Nm7-speed DSG (Automatic)

The new 8-speed automatic replaces the old 6-speed unit for the 1.0L engine, promising smoother shifts and better efficiency. For the performance-oriented 1.5L TSI variants, Skoda has finally added rear disc brakes as standard for improved stopping power.

Safety & Bookings

Safety remains a core pillar, with the 2026 Kushaq offering six airbags as standard across all variants. Other safety tech includes front parking sensors, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-Hold Assist, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Price & Availability

The 2026 Kushaq is expected to be priced between ₹11.00 lakh and ₹19.50 lakh (ex-showroom).

  • Bookings: Officially open now at a token amount of ₹15,000.
  • Deliveries: Expected to commence in March 2026.

The facelifted Kushaq will face stiff competition from the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the upcoming Tata Sierra.

Gilli Nata Crowned Champion of Bigg Boss Kannada 12; State Erupts in Celebration

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: In a finale that felt more like a statewide festival than a television broadcast, comedian and social media sensation Gilli Nata was officially crowned the winner of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 on Sunday night. His victory has sparked massive celebrations across Karnataka, with fans taking to the streets to cheer for the “Man of the Masses.”

A Decisive Victory

Hosted by the charismatic Kichcha Sudeep, the grand finale saw Gilli Nata edge out strong competitors to lift the coveted trophy. The win was backed by an unprecedented wave of public support; reports indicate a record-breaking voting turnout, with Gilli receiving a staggering share of the total votes.

Social media influencer Rakshitha Shetty was named the first runner-up, while actor-activist Ashwini Gowda secured the second runner-up position.

The Winner’s Spoils

Gilli Nata didn’t just win the title; he walked away with a life-changing prize package:

  • ₹50 Lakh in prize money from the show’s sponsors.
  • A Brand-New Maruti Suzuki Invicto SUV.
  • ₹10 Lakh Personal Gift: In a heartwarming gesture, host Kichcha Sudeep personally gifted Gilli an additional ₹10 lakh on stage to honor his humble beginnings and hard work.

From Mandya to Stardom: The Journey

Born Malavalli Nataraj in the Mandya district, Gilli Nata’s rise is a true “underdog” story. Coming from a farming background, he started his career in the art departments of film sets before finding fame through comedy sketches on YouTube and his runner-up stint on Comedy Khiladigalu Season 4.

Throughout the 112 days in the Bigg Boss house, Gilli was the season’s primary entertainer. His sharp wit, relatable humor, and “son-of-the-soil” persona resonated deeply with viewers. Despite the high-pressure environment and occasional heated arguments, he remained a fan favorite, often leading audience polls by a massive margin.

“I will remain the same forever; no win will make me change,” Gilli told the audience during his emotional victory speech. He also shared his plans to invest a portion of his winnings into farmland, staying true to his roots.

Statewide Frenzy

The announcement of his win triggered celebrations usually reserved for major sporting events. In towns like Mandya, Mysuru, and Bengaluru, fans burst firecrackers, organized bike rallies, and distributed sweets. On social media, the hashtag #GilliNata trended at number one for hours as fellow celebrities and former contestants flooded the internet with congratulatory messages.

With his transition from a digital creator to a household name now complete, Gilli Nata is expected to make a major splash in the Kannada film industry, having already appeared in the film The Devil alongside Darshan.

Priyanka’s Success: A Mother’s Regret

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: In a recent, candid reflection on the high price of fame, Dr. Madhu Chopra has opened up about a side of Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s success story that rarely makes the headlines. While Priyanka’s journey from Miss World 2000 to a global icon is often celebrated as a triumph of ambition, her mother revealed that this path left her son, Siddharth Chopra, as the “collateral damage” of the family’s singular focus.

The Emotional Cost of Stardom

Appearing on the Something Bigger Show, Madhu Chopra admitted that the family dynamic shifted drastically when Priyanka entered the film industry at just 18. With their father, the late Dr. Ashok Chopra, busy with his medical practice and Madhu constantly traveling to protect and guide a teenage Priyanka on film sets, Siddharth was frequently left to navigate his formative years alone.

“Siddharth was the collateral damage to all of Priyanka’s success,” Madhu shared emotionally. “He just grew up on his own, and he was a teenager at that time. When I think about it, these are certain things that you had to deal with.”

A Contrast in Journeys

The revelation highlights the stark difference in the siblings’ upbringing during those pivotal years. While Priyanka was thrust into the limelight—reluctantly at first, with Madhu recalling tears on her first movie contract—Siddharth was living a much quieter, often solitary life.

Despite the lack of parental presence during his youth, Madhu emphasizes that Siddharth has developed his own path, though she admits she still sees him “struggling every day” to find his footing. Unlike his sister’s disciplined, “4:00 AM” work ethic, Siddharth has pursued a career in the hospitality industry and recently stepped into film production, managing the family’s banner, Purple Pebble Pictures.

Recent Milestones and Family Bonds

Despite the past “collateral damage,” the Chopra family remains tight-knit.

  • Marriage: In August 2024, Siddharth turned a new leaf, marrying actress Neelam Upadhyaya in a star-studded Mumbai ceremony.
  • Support: Priyanka, along with husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie, flew to India to support Siddharth, proving that while the “infrastructure” of his childhood may have been absent, the emotional bond remains intact.
  • Resilience: Madhu now views her son as a “blessed” individual who is counting his own successes, away from the shadow of his sister’s global fame.

This rare admission from Madhu Chopra serves as a poignant reminder that behind every “overnight” success story often lies a complex web of family sacrifices and silent struggles.

Jaipur Man’s ₹25 Lakh Silver Wedding Invite

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: In a city known for its royal heritage and grand celebrations, a Jaipur businessman has redefined the “Great Indian Wedding” by creating a wedding invitation that is as much a spiritual relic as it is a luxury statement.

Shiv Johari, a prominent resident of the Pink City, has made headlines across the country after unveiling a wedding card crafted from 3 kg of pure silver, valued at approximately ₹25 lakh. Created for his daughter Shruti’s upcoming wedding to Harsh Soni, the invitation has left the local community and social media in awe.

A Masterpiece of Art and Faith

What makes this card stand out is not just its price tag, but the staggering level of craftsmanship involved. Measuring 8 x 6.5 inches with a depth of 3 inches, the box-shaped invitation is an intricate gallery of Hindu iconography.

The “card” is composed of 128 individual silver pieces, assembled with such precision that not a single nail or screw was used in its construction. Key features of the design include:

  • 65 Intricately Carved Deities: The centerpiece features Lord Ganesha, flanked by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
  • Divine Hierarchy: The carvings include Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu, and two forms of Tirupati Balaji with his celestial gatekeepers.
  • Spiritual Narratives: The exterior depicts the life of Lord Krishna, from his birth to his childhood “Leelas,” alongside the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu.
  • Royal Symbolism: Figures of elephants showering flowers surround the names of the bride and groom, while the “Ashta Lakshmi” (eight forms of Lakshmi) adorn the outer layers.

More Than Just a Gift

For Shiv Johari, this was a labor of love that took over one year to complete. He personally oversaw the design, ensuring that every detail reflected his blessings for his daughter’s new journey.

“I didn’t want to just invite relatives; I wanted to invite all the gods and goddesses to my daughter’s wedding,” Johari explained.

By presenting this silver masterpiece to his daughter’s in-laws, he expressed a poignant sentiment: he wasn’t just sending his daughter to a new home, but entrusting her to divine protection.

The Rising Trend of “Investment Invites”

This extraordinary gesture comes at a time when the Indian wedding industry is seeing a shift toward “keepsake” invitations. While paper cards are often discarded, silver and gold-plated invites serve as a permanent heirloom.

In Jaipur, where the wedding season is currently at its peak, experts estimate that nearly 4.6 million weddings will take place across India this season, contributing billions to the economy. While some critics argue against such lavish spending, for families like the Joharis, these creations are considered “emotional documents”—a blend of traditional values and artistic legacy that will be preserved for generations.

The Last Emperor Bows Out: Valentino Garavani Dies at 93

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: The fashion world is in mourning following the death of Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian couturier who defined global elegance for over half a century. Known mononymously as Valentino, the designer passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026, at his residence in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 93.

The news was confirmed by the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti, which hailed the designer as a “true source of light, creativity, and vision.”

A Legacy Painted in Red

Valentino’s career was defined by a singular pursuit of beauty. He was perhaps most famous for his signature “Valentino Red”—a vibrant, dramatic hue inspired by a woman he saw at the Barcelona opera in his youth. The color became a staple of every collection, symbolizing the passion and high-glamour that became his trademark.

Over five decades, Valentino became the go-to designer for the world’s most influential women, including:

  • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: He designed her iconic cream lace dress for her 1968 wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
  • Hollywood Royalty: His gowns were red-carpet staples for stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Julia Roberts, and Cate Blanchett.
  • Modern Icons: He maintained close friendships with muses such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Anne Hathaway.

The “Last Emperor” of Couture

Born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy, Valentino moved to Paris as a teenager to study fashion before returning to Rome to open his first atelier in 1959. Alongside his longtime business and life partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, he built a luxury empire that bridged the gap between old-world craftsmanship and modern branding.

Valentino was often called “The Last Emperor,” a title popularized by a 2008 documentary that chronicled his final years before retirement. He belonged to a golden era of designers—alongside Karl Lagerfeld and Giorgio Armani—who turned fashion into a global cultural phenomenon. Even after his official retirement in 2008, his influence remained pervasive, with his successor, Alessandro Michele, recently taking the helm of the house he built.

“I know what women want,” Valentino once famously remarked. “They want to be beautiful.”

Tributes and Final Farewells

Tributes have poured in from across the globe. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described him as an “undisputed master of style and an eternal symbol of Italian high fashion.” Fellow designer Donatella Versace called him a “true maestro,” while celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow shared heartfelt memories of the man who always insisted his friends “wear at least a little mascara” to dinner.

Funeral Arrangements: The public will be able to pay their respects as Valentino’s body lies in state at the foundation’s headquarters in Rome (Piazza Mignanelli) on Wednesday, Jan 21 and Thursday, Jan 22. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 23, at the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri.

Valentino is survived by his lifelong partner Giancarlo Giammetti and his beloved pack of pugs, who were constant companions throughout his jet-set life. His death marks the end of an era, but his “Valentino Red” will undoubtedly continue to grace runways for generations to come.

Khatarnak Jasoos: Bollywood’s Brilliant Absurdist Hit

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January 20, 2026 — In an era of hyper-nationalistic spy thrillers and brooding secret agents, Vir Das and Aamir Khan have delivered something remarkably different: a movie that is aggressively, brilliantly, and unapologetically stupid.

Released on January 16, Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos has quickly become the talk of the industry, not for its box-office records, but for its “brave, big-swing” approach to comedy. Produced by Aamir Khan Productions, the film marks the directorial debut of Vir Das, who alongside co-director Kavi Shastri, has crafted a “tonal contract” with the audience: leave your logic at the door, or be left behind.

A “Brainrot” Revolution in Bollywood

The film follows Happy Patel (played by Vir Das), a bumbling wannabe spy raised in London by two adoptive British dads. When he’s sent to Goa on a high-stakes rescue mission, the movie abandons all traditional storytelling. Instead, it leans into what critics are calling “brainrot-inflected comedy”—a style that prioritizes vibes and absurdism over plot.

The brilliance of the writing lies in its self-awareness. It doesn’t just feature bad jokes; it makes the badness the point. For instance:

  • The “Tom” Gag: Every time Happy mispronounces the Hindi word tum (you) as “Tom,” a random British tourist named Tom literally pops into the frame.
  • Linguistic Anarchy: The script treats language like a playground, bending English words into Hindi puns and using “colonial confidence” to misuse local phrases.
  • The Climax: In a complete subversion of the genre, the final showdown isn’t a gunfight; it’s a surreal mashup of a cooking competition and ballet dancing.

A Delhi Belly Reunion

For many fans, the real draw is the “full-circle” moment of the Delhi Belly trio. Fifteen years after the cult classic, Aamir Khan, Vir Das, and Imran Khan (making a highly anticipated return to the big screen) share the frame once more.

Aamir Khan’s cameo as the flamboyant, bewigged gangster Jimmy Mario sets the tone in the opening minutes, while Imran Khan’s appearance as an international supermodel named Milind provides a nostalgic wink to his past roles.

Why “Stupid” Works

Writing a smart movie is hard, but writing a “stupid” movie that actually works is harder. Critics have noted that Khatarnak Jasoos succeeds because it refuses to “balance” its absurdity. There is no “straight man” to ground the scenes; everyone—from Mona Singh’s villainous, cutlet-making “Mama” to Mithila Palkar’s glitching item girl—is dialed up to eleven.

As the film moves into its first weekdays, it faces a test of longevity. While its opening weekend saw a steady ₹4.75 crore, the movie’s real legacy may lie in its status as a “worthy parallel” to mainstream cinema—a brilliant spoof that openly calls out its own mediocrity while keeping the audience laughing.

Shah Rukh Khan Viral Moments with Katy Perry and Millie Bobby Brown

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January 20, 2026 — The iternet has been set ablaze following a spectacular “East meets West” crossover at the Joy Awards 2026. Bollywood’s undisputed “King,” Shah Rukh Khan, made a grand debut at the prestigious ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he was seen sharing the frame with global superstars Katy Perry and Millie Bobby Brown.

The annual event, which celebrates achievements in film, music, and television across the globe, turned into a digital frenzy as pictures of the trio began circulating on social media. Fans are calling it one of the most iconic pop-culture moments of the year so far.

A Lavender Carpet Extravaganza

Shah Rukh Khan arrived at the venue looking effortlessly suave in an all-black ensemble, featuring a zipped layered jacket and tailored trousers. Walking the “lavender carpet”—a signature of the Joy Awards—Khan was accompanied by his manager, Pooja Dadlani.

While the Bollywood legend is no stranger to international acclaim, his interactions with Hollywood heavyweights took center stage:

  • Katy Perry: The “Firework” singer, who performed live at the ceremony, was spotted smiling warmly alongside SRK. The duo’s photo quickly became a favorite for fans, symbolizing the bridge between Indian cinema and global pop music.
  • Millie Bobby Brown: The Stranger Things star, who was honored as Personality of the Year, was seen interacting with Khan, sparking a wave of “fan-girl/fan-boy” comments from followers who grew up watching both stars.

The “Selfie” Video That Went Viral

Beyond the glamorous stills, a specific video from the night sparked heated debate online. In the clip, a fan attempted to take a selfie with SRK on stage. The actor was seen gently taking the phone away from the fan, which initially led to mixed reactions.

However, loyal supporters and eyewitnesses quickly clarified the situation. It appeared that Khan was simply following security protocols and ensuring the ceremony proceeded smoothly, even suggesting that someone else take a proper photo so the award could be visible.

What’s Next for King Khan?

During a brief interaction with the press, SRK expressed his gratitude for the love he receives in the Middle East, noting, “To know that people like my work here is very heartening and dignified.”

The actor’s global appearance comes at a time when anticipation for his next film, King, is at an all-time high. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the movie will feature SRK alongside his daughter, Suhana Khan, and is expected to be one of the biggest releases of 2026.

Heartwarming Surprise for Grandmother Moves the Internet

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New Delhi, January 20, 2026: A deeply moving video showcasing the beautiful bond between a grandson and his grandmother has captured the hearts of millions across social media platforms. The footage, which began trending in January 2026, depicts a meticulously planned surprise that left the elderly woman overwhelmed with joy. It is observed in the clip that the grandson returned home unexpectedly after a long period of separation, leading to a raw and emotional reunion. This display of familial affection has been hailed as a reminder of the preciousness of time and the strength of generational ties.

The Melting Heart of a Grandmother

The emotional climax of the video occurs when the grandmother realizes that the person standing before her is her beloved grandson. It is reported that the woman’s heart was seen to “melt” as she was presented with a thoughtful gift or simply the presence of her kin. Tears of happiness were seen trickling down her face as she embraced the young man, a sight that has resonated with viewers of all ages. The video beautifully captures the essence of selfless love, illustrating how a small gesture can bring immense solace to the elderly.

Also Read: The Reality of Tom Blyth and Hudson Williams Nightclub Footage

A Viral Celebration of Family Values

A massive wave of positive engagement has been generated on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where the video has accumulated millions of views. It is argued by many netizens that such heartwarming content provides a necessary escape from the often cynical nature of the digital world. The grandson’s efforts to prioritize his grandmother’s happiness are being celebrated as an example for the younger generation. Comments filled with blessings and emotional anecdotes have been shared by strangers who were moved to tears by the sincerity of the interaction.

The Power of Surprise and Presence

The impact of the surprise is being viewed as a significant psychological boost for the elderly woman, who was seen beaming with a newfound radiance. It is suggested by family experts that the simple act of “showing up” is often the greatest gift one can offer to their grandparents. The video highlights the meticulous planning involved, from the silent entry into the house to the final reveal. This narrative of love and presence has struck a chord globally, reinforcing the idea that no matter how busy life becomes, family should always remain at the center.

A Lasting Digital Legacy of Love

As the video continues to be shared in late January 2026, it remains a cherished highlight of the early year’s viral content. It is believed that the “Grandmother’s Surprise” will continue to inspire others to reconnect with their elders and create similar moments of joy. The footage serves as a timeless reminder that while the world changes rapidly, the warmth of a grandmother’s hug remains a constant source of comfort. The legacy of this viral interaction is a collective celebration of the enduring and unbreakable bond of love.

The Reality of Tom Blyth and Hudson Williams Nightclub Footage

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New Delhi, January 20, 2026: A massive wave of speculation has been triggered across social media platforms following the emergence of a grainy video allegedly featuring actor Tom Blyth and a woman identified as Hudson Williams. The footage, which began circulating in January 2026, purportedly captures the pair in an intimate moment at a crowded nightclub. It is observed that the clip was filmed by a bystander from a distance, leading to an immediate surge in search queries regarding the nature of their relationship. The identity of the woman, Hudson Williams, has become a central point of interest for fans of the Hunger Games star.

Analyzing the Viral Footage

The authenticity of the video is being scrutinized by digital experts and dedicated fans alike. It is argued by many that the low lighting and poor resolution of the nightclub setting make a definitive identification almost impossible. While the male figure in the video shares a similar build and hairstyle to the British actor, it is suggested that the footage may have been intentionally edited or mislabeled to generate engagement. Several inconsistencies in the timeline of the actors’ recent public appearances were identified, casting further doubt on the claim that they were at the same location simultaneously.

Also Read: Young Talent Uses School Supplies to Recreate ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’

The Truth Behind the Rumors

In the days following the initial leak, the “truth” behind the video has been addressed by various entertainment news sources. It is reported that the individuals in the footage are likely look-alikes or are being misidentified due to the lack of clear facial features. No official confirmation of a romantic involvement has been provided by the representatives of either party. Furthermore, it is believed that Hudson Williams, who has been linked to several high-profile social circles, was actually in a different city on the night the video was allegedly recorded.

Impact of Celebrity Speculation

The rapid spread of this rumor is being viewed as another example of the invasive nature of modern fan culture. It is stated by media analysts that the privacy of public figures is often compromised for the sake of viral content. The obsession with Tom Blyth’s dating life has reached a peak in early 2026, leading to a climate where unverified clips are treated as fact. A backlash has been generated by supporters who have called for an end to the “paparazzi-style” filming of actors in private spaces, emphasizing that such actions often lead to false narratives and unnecessary distress.

Clarifying Public Perceptions

As the controversy begins to subside, the focus is being redirected toward the upcoming projects of the talented actor. It is believed that the “nightclub scandal” will soon be forgotten as more credible news regarding his professional life is released. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of verifying information before participating in online discourse. Until a direct statement is made by either Tom Blyth or Hudson Williams, the video remains a product of internet conjecture rather than a documented reality.

Central Bank of India Recruitment 2026: 350 Vacancies Open

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New Delhi, january 20, 2026: The Central Bank of India (CBI) has officially released its recruitment notification for 2026, opening doors for professionals to join one of the country’s oldest and largest public sector banks. This year, the bank has announced 350 vacancies for Specialist Officer (SO) roles, specifically targeting Marketing and Foreign Exchange expertise.

The application window opened on January 20, 2026, and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline to secure a position in this prestigious institution.

Vacancies and Salary Structure

The recruitment drive is divided into two primary categories. The bank is looking for dynamic individuals to fill the following roles:

Post NameScaleVacanciesBasic Pay Scale
Marketing OfficerScale I (Assistant Manager)300₹48,480 – ₹85,920
Foreign Exchange OfficerScale III (Senior Manager)50₹85,920 – ₹1,05,280

Selected candidates will also be eligible for various allowances, including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and medical benefits as per the bank’s policy.

Eligibility Criteria (As of Jan 1, 2026)

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the specific educational and age requirements for their desired post.

1. Marketing Officer (Scale I)

  • Age: 22 to 30 years.
  • Education: Full-time Graduation plus a 2-year full-time MBA or PGDBM with a specialization in Marketing.
  • Experience: Minimum 2 years of post-qualification experience, with at least 1 year in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) sector.

2. Foreign Exchange Officer (Scale III)

  • Age: 25 to 35 years.
  • Education: Full-time Graduation. Preference is given to those with CA, CFA, or MBA qualifications.
  • Mandatory: Must possess a Certificate in Foreign Exchange Operations from IIBF.
  • Experience: Minimum 5 years as an officer in a Scheduled Commercial Bank, with 3 years specifically in Trade Finance or Forex.

Selection Process

The selection will be a two-stage process designed to test both technical knowledge and interpersonal skills:

  1. Online Written Test: Tentatively scheduled for February or March 2026. Notably, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers in this cycle.
  2. Personal Interview: Candidates who clear the written test will be called for an interview (tentatively March/April 2026).

The final merit list will be prepared using a weightage of 70:30 between the written exam and the interview.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply exclusively through the official website. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official portal: centralbankofindia.co.in.
  2. Navigate to the “Careers/Recruitment” section.
  3. Click on “Recruitment of Specialist Officers 2026” and select “Click here for New Registration.”
  4. Fill in your basic details, upload your photograph and signature, and pay the application fee.
  5. Application Fee: ₹850 for General/OBC candidates; ₹175 (intimation charges only) for SC/ST/PwBD and Women candidates.

Important Dates

  • Application Start Date: January 20, 2026
  • Last Date to Apply: February 3, 2026
  • Last Date for Fee Payment: February 3, 2026