Meet The CEO Managing A $30 Billion Empire Alone With Only 30 Workers And No HR

 Pavel Durov: The Man Behind Telegram’s Lean and Powerful Operation

New Delhi: Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder and CEO of Telegram, runs his $30 billion enterprise with an astonishingly small team of just 30 employees—without even a formal human resources (HR) department. While this may seem unusual for a tech giant serving nearly a billion users, Durov has embraced a highly unconventional approach to managing his business. As the company’s self-proclaimed “only product manager,” he personally oversees operations and takes on recruitment duties, hiring top engineers through coding contests.

Meet The CEO Managing A $30 Billion Empire Alone With Only 30 Workers And No HR

A Remarkable Business Model Highlighted

This unique aspect of Telegram’s structure was recently brought into the spotlight by prominent Indian businessman Harsh Goenka, known for his social media commentary. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Goenka marveled at the efficiency of Telegram’s model, writing, “Telegram, led by recently arrested founder Pavel Durov, has ~1B users, market cap $30bn, no ads, only 30 employees, and no HR (Durov runs the show solo, recruiting top talent through contests). Talk about lean!”

Despite its massive scale, with over 900 million users worldwide, Telegram’s staff size is minimal compared to other major tech companies. This has contributed to its reputation for being nimble and focused. The platform, founded in 2013 by Durov and his brother Nikolai, has become synonymous with privacy and flexibility. Telegram stands out not only for its robust encryption features but also for its ability to host large groups and sync seamlessly across multiple devices.

Pavel Durov: A Revolutionary Leader in Tech

Durov’s journey to becoming one of the tech world’s most enigmatic figures began in the former Soviet Union. A graduate of St. Petersburg University, he first gained recognition as the co-founder of VKontakte (VK), a social media platform that became widely popular in Russia. However, in 2014, Durov’s refusal to comply with Russian government requests for user data led to his forced departure from the country. Reflecting on this experience in a 2024 interview, he noted, “It was painful because my first company was my baby. But I realized that I would rather be free than take orders from anyone.”

X Open 🔗 Link

Now a billionaire with citizenship in France, the UAE, and Russia, Durov has turned Telegram into a global success. His strict focus on user privacy has helped the app stand out among its competitors, including WhatsApp. Today, Telegram is known not just as a messaging platform but as a symbol of freedom from intrusive governments and companies alike.

The Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

In recent months, Durov’s name has surfaced in headlines for more troubling reasons. On August 24, 2024, he was arrested at Le Bourget Airport near Paris by French authorities. This arrest is linked to a police investigation into allegations that Telegram has allowed criminal activity to occur unchecked on its platform. The investigation centers on the app’s lack of moderation and its limited cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

Sources familiar with the case, as cited by Reuters, suggest that the French authorities are concerned about Telegram’s failure to curb illicit activities, including its use by criminal groups. Despite the legal challenges, Durov has not commented publicly on the situation, though clips from his interview with Trucker Coulson following the arrest have garnered widespread attention.

The Future of Telegram Under Scrutiny

As the investigation continues, questions arise about Telegram’s future and how it will navigate the growing pressures from governments to regulate content on its platform. Telegram's focus on user privacy has won it legions of loyal followers, but it may also place the company at odds with legal systems worldwide. Whether Durov's unorthodox leadership style will help Telegram weather these challenges remains to be seen.

However, what’s clear is that Durov’s vision for Telegram has always been one of freedom—freedom from surveillance, freedom from ads, and freedom from bloated corporate structures. His minimalist approach to running a $30 billion company with just 30 employees might be a rare phenomenon in the tech world, but it speaks to his singular focus on independence and privacy, qualities that continue to define both the man and the app he created.

"Not acceptable": A Canadian landlord evicts an Indian renter and throws away his things due to a disagreement, leaving him defenseless.

 A video showing a Canadian landlord forcibly evicting an Indian tenant has gone viral, igniting a heated conversation on social media about tenant rights and landlord behavior, particularly for immigrants living abroad. The 15-second clip, which has already amassed over 1.7 million views, captures a tense moment where the tenant, shirtless and visibly distressed, watches helplessly as the landlord throws out his belongings. The incident, reportedly taking place in Brampton, Canada, highlights the complex relationship between landlords and tenants, especially in multicultural communities.

"Not acceptable": A Canadian landlord evicts an Indian renter and throws away his things due to a disagreement, leaving him defenseless.

The video was first shared by the popular X account “Ghar Ke Kalesh” (formerly known as Twitter), a platform known for sharing domestic disputes. In the caption, it was revealed that the tenant had allegedly refused to vacate the property, prompting the landlord to take matters into his own hands. The footage shows the landlord aggressively removing the tenant’s possessions, while the tenant, seemingly out of options, stands by powerless to intervene.

Background and Speculation

Many viewers have questioned what led to such an extreme situation, with some speculating that the tenant’s refusal to leave the premises might have forced the landlord’s hand. This act of self-eviction raises concerns about the rights of tenants, particularly those of immigrant backgrounds, who may feel more vulnerable in unfamiliar legal systems. For many, this video has sparked a broader discussion about how landlord-tenant disputes are handled, especially when it involves individuals far from their home country.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

The public reaction to the video has been polarizing. On one side, many viewers expressed empathy for the tenant, criticizing the landlord for resorting to such drastic measures. One user wrote, “It’s heartbreaking to see someone thrown out like this, especially in a foreign land.” Others shared similar sentiments, with one remarking, “Landlords can be harsh, but the level of aggression here seems unwarranted.”

However, not everyone saw it that way. Some defended the landlord, arguing that the tenant should have complied with the request to leave. “If he was told to vacate, he should have done it—this is the consequence of refusing,” one comment read. Another added, “It’s typical desi drama, but the landlord’s response was definitely over the top.”

Humor and Cultural Commentary

Amidst the serious discussion, there were those who chose to inject humor into the situation, pointing out the cultural undertones of the dispute. One user jokingly commented, “The landlord went full Terminator mode! Unreal,” while another quipped, “Only in Brampton, the desi capital of Canada, would something like this happen.”

Broader Implications

While the video has sparked debate and varying reactions, it also highlights larger issues regarding immigrant experiences, housing challenges, and the handling of landlord-tenant conflicts in multicultural communities. As the clip continues to spread across social media, it serves as a stark reminder of the power dynamics that can arise in housing disputes, and how vulnerable tenants, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, can be when faced with such situations.

India's Expected XI For First T20I versus Bangladesh: Sanju Samson Promoted; Two Debutants In, Shivam Dube Out

 After a dominant 2-0 victory in the Test series, the Indian cricket team is set to take on Bangladesh in the first T20 International (T20I) of a three-match series this Sunday, October 6, at the newly inaugurated Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior. This match holds particular significance as it will be Suryakumar Yadav’s first time captaining the Indian team on home soil since his appointment as the full-time skipper for the T20 format.

India's Expected XI For First T20I versus Bangladesh: Sanju Samson Promoted; Two Debutants In, Shivam Dube Out

Test Players Absent for T20 Series  

As India looks ahead to the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, none of the players from the Test squad are included in the T20 series against Bangladesh. This means the Indian side will be without several key members of their World Cup-winning squad, including Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. The absence of these big names provides an opportunity for others to step up in what will be a relatively fresh and experimental lineup for the T20 series.

India’s Likely XI for the First T20I  

In terms of the playing XI for the first T20I, the Indian side has only selected one specialist opener, making Abhishek Sharma a certain starter at the top of the order. Since no other pure opening batter has been named in the squad, it is highly likely that wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson will be promoted to open alongside Sharma.

At number three, captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to reclaim his preferred spot in the batting order, where he will aim to anchor the innings. Riyan Parag, who was given a chance in the previous series in Sri Lanka, is likely to continue in the middle order at number four, getting an extended run in the team. 

The experienced all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to return to action after a two-month break, taking his place at number five. Following him, Rinku Singh will bring finishing power at number six. 

Washington Sundar will likely fill the role of spin-bowling all-rounder, batting at number seven. As for the specialist spinner, Ravi Bishnoi is expected to lead the spin department. This decision may see Varun Chakravarthy miss out on the opening game as Bishnoi is favored to start. Arshdeep Singh will lead the pace attack, supported by two debutants, Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav, who will be eager to make their mark on the international stage.

India’s Expected Playing XI for 1st T20I vs Bangladesh:  

- Abhishek Sharma  

- Sanju Samson (WK)  

- Suryakumar Yadav (C)  

- Riyan Parag  

- Hardik Pandya  

- Rinku Singh  

- Washington Sundar  

- Ravi Bishnoi  

- Harshit Rana  

- Arshdeep Singh  

- Mayank Yadav  

India’s Full Squad for Bangladesh T20Is:  

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav.

As the team enters this T20 series, the focus will be on balancing experimentation with performance, providing younger players with a platform while still aiming to secure the series against Bangladesh.

Mamata Banerjee Reacts To The Demand That Bengal Ban The Durga Puja Festival: "They Ought to Know..."

 Amid growing calls from certain protest groups to boycott the Durga Puja festival in light of the disturbing rape and murder case at R.G. Kar Medical College, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed the issue on Wednesday. She spoke at the launch of the special puja edition of the Trinamool Congress’ (TMC) publication, *Jago Bangla* (Wake up, Bengal), where she strongly defended the importance of festivals in the state’s cultural identity.

Mamata Banerjee Reacts To The Demand That Bengal Ban The Durga Puja Festival: "They Ought to Know..."

Responding to the concerns raised by some, Banerjee stressed that West Bengal’s traditions are inseparable from its year-round festivities. "There are many asking why we are indulging in celebrations during such times," she remarked. "But they must understand that the essence of Bengal is rooted in its rich culture of celebrations. Our festivals are for everyone, and they bring people together."

She pointed out that Durga Puja, in particular, is a much-anticipated festival, not just for religious reasons but as a community event that kicks off the entire festive season. "People wait all year for Durga Puja," Banerjee added. "And after Durga Puja, there’s a cascade of festivals—Diwali, Kali Puja, Chhath Puja—that continues all the way until Christmas."

In the same speech, Banerjee addressed the ongoing unrest among junior doctors, who have resumed their full-scale strike just ahead of Durga Puja. A day prior, the Supreme Court had urged doctors to resume essential services while negotiations continue. However, the doctors have remained firm in their protest, demanding the government address their concerns regarding safety and security in hospitals.

The strike initially began on August 9, following the discovery of a junior doctor’s body in a seminar room at R.G. Kar Medical College, where she was allegedly raped and murdered. Despite Banerjee’s repeated pleas to the doctors during the first 42-day phase of their strike, which lasted until late September, the protests have intensified. Banerjee had previously requested that the junior doctors return to work, noting that the people of Bengal have been eagerly awaiting the Durga Puja celebrations, and such disruptions could dampen the festive spirit.

Banerjee’s remarks underscore the deep cultural significance of Durga Puja in West Bengal, where festivals serve not only as religious events but as key moments of community bonding and celebration. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding the protests, she reaffirmed that the state's spirit of festivity must continue, as it reflects the values and identity of Bengal itself.

Dropped Batsman Sends Reminder To Rohit Sharma And Gautam Gambhir With A Century In The Irani Cup, Released By Team India

 After being dropped from India's playing XI and released to participate in the Irani Cup, Sarfaraz Khan made a powerful statement with a remarkable century. The right-handed batsman completed his hundred just before the lunch break on the second day, sending a strong reminder to captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir of his undeniable talent and form. His brilliant innings underscored why he deserves another chance in India's Test squad.

Dropped Batsman Sends Reminder To Rohit Sharma And Gautam Gambhir With A Century In The Irani Cup, Released By Team India

Sarfaraz had been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, which led to his maiden call-up for the Indian team during the England Test series earlier in 2024. Making his debut in Rajkot, he played three Tests in that series, amassing 200 runs with an impressive average of 50. However, with KL Rahul’s return for the Bangladesh Test series, Sarfaraz found himself benched. Rahul, the former vice-captain, was given the nod to play both Tests, leaving Sarfaraz sidelined.

Despite his exclusion, Sarfaraz remained determined. Alongside teammates Dhruv Jurel and Yash Dayal, who were also left out of the playing XI, he was named in the Irani Cup squads. Since they weren't needed for the national team, the BCCI released the trio to showcase their talents in the domestic tournament. Yash Dayal has already made his presence felt by picking up two wickets, while Dhruv Jurel is set to bat for the Rest of India team.

Meanwhile, veteran Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane fell agonizingly short of a well-deserved century on the second day. After Mumbai lost three early wickets, Rahane steadied the ship with a crucial 102-run partnership alongside Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a valuable 57 runs. Following Iyer’s dismissal, Rahane found support from Sarfaraz Khan, and together they added 131 runs for the fifth wicket. Unfortunately, Rahane was dismissed just three runs short of his century, falling for 97 off 234 balls. It was Yash Dayal who claimed the prized wicket of the Mumbai skipper.

Rahane’s near-century, while impressive, might not be enough to revive his international career. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has made it clear that they are looking to the future, opting not to recall either Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara, even when their experience could have been useful against England. Instead, the committee has placed its trust in the younger generation, signaling that Rahane’s time at the international level may be drawing to a close.

For Sarfaraz Khan, however, his performance in the Irani Cup serves as a timely reminder of his abilities and a clear message that he still has much to offer on the biggest stage. Whether the selectors heed that message remains to be seen, but his determination and hunger for success are undeniable.

In the second Test match between India and Bangladesh, an ex-wicketkeeper batter commented, "Someone tell Rohit Sharma he is retired."

 

In the second Test match between India and Bangladesh, an ex-wicketkeeper batter commented, "Someone tell Rohit Sharma he is retired."

India captain Rohit Sharma showcased his vintage form during the second Test match against Bangladesh at the iconic Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. From the moment he stepped onto the field, Rohit exuded confidence, smashing back-to-back sixes to get off the mark in spectacular style. But his brilliance wasn't limited to his powerful stroke play. A key moment unfolded when umpire Richard Kettleborough ruled him out LBW. The decision had the potential to shift the momentum of the game, but Rohit’s sharp cricketing mind came into play as he immediately opted for a review. The successful DRS call not only saved his wicket but also illustrated his determination to battle through every challenging moment. His animated reaction after overturning the decision was a raw display of passion, underscoring just how much it meant to him to contribute to the team’s cause.

Rohit’s quick-fire innings of 23 runs from 11 balls set the tone for a record-breaking display. Team India rewrote history by racing to their fastest 50, 100, and 150 runs in Test cricket, with Rohit and young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal spearheading the charge. In a remarkable display of aggression, the duo brought up the fastest team fifty in Test cricket history in just 18 balls, leaving the Bangladesh bowlers stunned. The attacking duo launched an assault that not only energized the crowd but also left Bangladesh shell-shocked.

Rohit’s third colossal six over long-on had even the commentators in awe, with former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik quipping, “Someone tell Rohit Sharma he’s retired. He’s no longer playing T20 internationals,” humorously capturing the disbelief and admiration of fans watching his fearless knock.

As the Rohit-Jaiswal fireworks ended, another Indian cricket legend quietly etched his name in the record books. Virat Kohli, in his own masterful style, surpassed 27,000 international runs, adding yet another feather to his already illustrious cap. 

On the fourth day of the Test, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul delivered authoritative fifties, propelling India to a commanding total of 285 for nine before declaring. Jaiswal's aggressive 72 off just 52 balls and Rahul’s solid 68 from 43 helped India extend their lead to 52 runs, following Bangladesh’s first-innings collapse at 233. Kohli chipped in with a fluent 47 off 35 deliveries, adding to the pressure on the opposition.

With both bat and ball, India took firm control of the match, leaving Bangladesh with a mountain to climb. The combined brilliance of Rohit, Jaiswal, and Rahul, supported by Kohli’s milestone, painted a picture of dominance, setting up an exciting conclusion to the Test.

Kolkata: HC Denies Police Request, Allows 50,000 Physicians' Rally For Justice In RG Kar Case Tomorrow

 On September 30, the Calcutta High Court gave its nod for a protest rally in Kolkata, organized by the Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), to take place on October 1. The protest is in response to the shocking rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Kolkata: HC Denies Police Request, Allows 50,000 Physicians' Rally For Justice In RG Kar Case Tomorrow

Court's Ruling on the Rally

The rally, aimed at drawing attention to the horrific crime, will be held from 5 PM to 8 PM, following a route from College Square in north Kolkata to Rabindra Sadan in the south, passing through Central Avenue and Esplanade. The ruling was delivered by Justice Rajarshi Bharadwaj, who emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during the protest.

Despite objections from Kolkata police, who sought to limit both the size of the rally and the length of the route, the court did not impose any such restrictions. Instead, it directed the Kolkata Police, under the leadership of the Joint Commissioner (Headquarters), to ensure adequate security arrangements for a smooth and peaceful demonstration.

Responsibilities of the Organizers

The court also tasked the organizers, an alliance of medical professionals under the Association of Health Service Doctors, West Bengal, with providing sufficient volunteers to manage the rally’s participants and ensure that the protest remains peaceful.

Dispute Over Restrictions

The organizers had initially applied for permission to hold the rally with around 50,000 participants. However, the Kolkata Police had granted approval for only 1,000 people, limiting the march to a shorter route from College Square to Rani Rashmoni Avenue at Esplanade. 

Challenging this restriction, the JPD took the matter to the High Court, arguing that since the public was voluntarily joining the protest, it was impractical to enforce a participant limit. The group contended that their right to protest peacefully, especially on such a serious issue, should not be curtailed.

State’s Stance and Supreme Court Precedent

On behalf of the state, Advocate General Kishore Dutta defended the imposed restrictions, stating that the government has the authority to regulate rallies and protests to maintain public order. However, Justice Bharadwaj referred to a Supreme Court ruling related to the RG Kar rape-murder case, which upheld the right to peaceful protests and urged authorities not to disrupt demonstrations held in a peaceful manner.

A Protest Fueled by Outrage

The rally is a direct response to the brutal murder of a young postgraduate medical trainee, whose body was found with severe injuries on August 9 in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This horrific incident has sparked widespread outrage among the medical community and the public alike, leading to calls for justice and action against such violence.

With the High Court’s approval, the stage is set for a significant demonstration in Kolkata, where the voices of many will unite to demand justice and safety for those in the medical profession.