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Radhika Vidyasagar

Udne Ki Aasha actor Radhika Vidyasagar talks relatability and career choices

Radhika Vidyasagar, who essays Renuka Deshmukh in Udne Ki Aasha, has opened up about her journey on the show, the evolving television industry, and balancing work across Marathi and Hindi platforms. Speaking about her experience, the actress shared that being part of the show has been deeply meaningful. “Being a part of Udne Ki Aasha has been extremely fulfilling for me as an actor. When a show connects with the audience so strongly, it becomes more than just work it becomes a shared journey. The love and appreciation we receive from viewers is overwhelming and very motivating.” She added that the role has allowed her to explore multiple dimensions. “Personally, I have enjoyed exploring the emotional layers of my character and working with such a talented cast and crew. Every day on set feels like we are building something meaningful together.” Radhika Vidyasagar on Udne Ki Aasha Reflecting on the industry, Radhika noted a gradual shift in how senior actors are perceived. “I believe the industry has changed a lot over the years. There are definitely conversations happening around fair compensation and recognition for senior actors. Experience and longevity bring a certain depth to performances, and that deserves respect.” She, however, emphasized that respect should remain constant. “However, I also feel things are slowly evolving, and many platforms today are acknowledging the value that senior actors bring to storytelling. Respect, ultimately, should be constant regardless of age or generation.” On working across languages, the actress expressed a deep-rooted connection to Marathi. “Everyone has a deep connection with their mother tongue, and for me, that language is Marathi. It is the language I am most comfortable in. I think in Marathi and even dream in it, so there is no question about where my roots lie.” She clarified that she has never left regional work. “That said, the idea of me ‘going back’ to Marathi screens is not accurate. I have always worked in both Marathi and Hindi simultaneously.” Discussing how she chooses projects, Radhika explained the realities of being a freelance actor. “As an actor, I choose projects based on what comes my way first and what feels right at that moment. There are several factors involved in making that decision, and when everything aligns, I take up the project. That is simply the nature of being a freelance actor.” Gets candid about sustaining shows amid quick ends Currently focused on her ongoing show, she revealed how it shapes her schedule. “At present, I am working on the show Udne Ki Aasha, which takes up most of my time, so my schedule is fully committed. However, that does not mean I have stepped away from Marathi work. I continue to take up smaller projects, short stories, and advertisements alongside.” She also highlighted the financial aspect of the profession. “Financial considerations also play an important role, as any project needs to be commercially viable. It is not always a matter of choice for actors to pick one industry over another; we take up the work that comes to us.” She considers her base in Maharashtra a major advantage. “In fact, being based in Mumbai and Maharashtra is an advantage. We have the opportunity to work in both regional and Hindi industries, which gives us a wider scope. I consider myself fortunate to have that balance.” Talking about her character, Radhika said the evolving emotional graph keeps her engaged. “The most exciting part for me has been the emotional journey of the character. She has gone through different phases strength, vulnerability, resilience and that gives an actor a lot to explore. I enjoy playing characters that evolve with the story because it keeps the performance dynamic and interesting. Every new arc is like rediscovering the character again.” Finally, she credited the show’s success to its relatability. “I think the biggest strength of Udne Ki Aasha is its relatability. The story reflects real emotions, real struggles and real relationships that audiences see around them. When people see a part of their own lives in a show, they stay connected to it.” She concluded by acknowledging the team’s effort. “Apart from that, the dedication of the entire team from writers and directors to actors and technicians has played a huge role in keeping the show consistent and engaging.”

09 April,2026 06:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti Sampat
Akshay Kumar

Wheel of Fortune: Akshay Kumar reveals he failed thrice in school

In a rare and unfiltered moment, Bollywood superstar and quiz reality show Wheel of Fortune host Akshay Kumar introduced his childhood best friend from his school days, who was seated in the live audience. Akshay Kumar shares he failed thrice in school Akshay took a trip down memory lane to his days at school, revealing that before he was the superstar of Bollywood, he was a backbencher who struggled to clear his exams, and that he had failed thrice in school. While interacting with the contestants, Akshay pointed out his friend Jinesh in the audience, revealing that their bond dates back to kindergarten. The superstar shocked the audience by admitting, “Hum log KG se saath mein hain aur KG se 9th grade ke beech mein hum log teen-teen baar fail hue hain”. When Akshay playfully grilled Jinesh on why he kept on failing, his friend had a quick defence to it and responded to the audience by saying “Main aapke saath time spend karta tha, uski wajah se!.” The banter escalated when Akshay revealed Jinesh’s childhood hobby, which was to ride his cycle around the town just to catch a glimpse of girls. Not one to take it lying down, Jinesh pointed right at Akshay and asked the audience, “Kya lagta hain, main dekhta tha ya yeh.” Akshay has always stated that he is in touch with all of his good friends from his childhood days. A few years ago, on the comedy show The Kapil Sharma Show, Akshay Kumar had invited his friends from the same residential society that he stayed in while growing up. Akshay Kumar makes a contestant take a fitness vow In another episode, Akshay challenged contestant Sahil to a life-changing vow. The segment kicked off when Sahil solved a puzzle based on the category of food, and he could sense Sahil's deep passion for exploring various cuisines. Akshay asked him, "Sahil, jaise tu yaha iss show mein sabke paise khaa raha hain vaise heen, agar tujhe mein aise alag-alag type ka khana dunga toh tu khayega?" Sahil confidently responds to Akshay by stating, "Sir mujhe itna farak nahi padta main starters bhi main course jaise khata hoon aur jaise main, itne paise kama raha hoon toh main paise khana pasand karuga." Akshay, considering Sahil's statement, challenges him on national television by saying, "Thik hain Sahil, agar tu aage aur paise kamayega toh aaj tu national television pe bolega ki tu 6:30 shaam ke baad khana nahi khauga." Sahil promises Akshay that if he reaches the bonus round, he won't consume any food after 6:30 in the evening.

09 April,2026 11:07 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Picture Courtesy/Surbhi Jyoti's Instagram account

Surbhi Jyoti treats fans to a ‘photo buffet’ of her baby bump

Television actress Surbhi Jyoti, on Wednesday evening, treated her fans to a “photo buffet” as she shared a series of adorable pictures where she was seen proudly flaunting her baby bump. The actress, who is all set to welcome her first baby in February this year, had announced her pregnancy and had taken to her social media to share the good news with her fans.           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Surbhi Jyoti (@surbhijyoti) In the latest set of pictures, the mommy-to-be is seen in different attires, flaunting her baby bump. In one close-up selfie, she is seen making a playful pout. In another picture, the actress is seen in a pink printed co-ord set, posing calmly near plants and a pool. In another picture, Surbhi looks radiant in the same pink outfit, smiling and highlighting her pregnancy glow. In another picture, Surbhi was seen placing her hands delicately on her baby bump as if having a conversation with her baby in the womb. Her latest caption read, “Photo buffet,” further adding a pink flower. Earlier, while announcing her pregnancy, Surbhi had shared an emotional post that read, “Om Our greatest adventure begins. Little Love arriving this June.” On the professional front, Surbhi Jyoti rose to fame with her popular show Qubool Hai. The show, within no time, made her a household name. She later went on to feature in the hit shows like Naagin On the personal front, Surbhi tied the knot with Sumit Suri in October 2023 in a dreamy ceremony held in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

09 April,2026 10:41 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
Akshay Kumar

Wheel of Fortune: Akshay Kumar makes a contestant take a fitness vow

Known for his legendary discipline and "early to bed, early to rise" lifestyle, the host of the show, Akshay Kumar, brought his health crusade on Wheel of Fortune. In a hilarious yet firm intervention, Akshay challenged contestant Sahil, hailing from Sarangpur (U.P ), who is a film director by profession and a self-proclaimed foodie, to a life-changing fitness vow right in front of millions of viewers. Akshay challenges a contestant to have dinner early The segment kicked off when Sahil solved a puzzle based on the category of food, and he could sense Sahil’s deep passion for exploring various cuisines. Akshay, on a curious note, asked him, “Sahil, jaise tu yaha iss show mein sabke paise khaa raha hain vaise heen, agar tujhe mein aise alag-alag type ka khana dunga toh tu khayega?” Sahil confidently responds to Akshay by stating, “Sir mujhe itna farak nahi padta main starters bhi main course jaise khata hoon aur jaise main, itne paise kama raha hoon toh main paise khana pasand karuga.”  Akshay, considering Sahil’s statement, challenges him on national television by saying, “Thik hain Sahil, agar tu aage aur paise kamayega toh aaj tu national television pe bolega ki tu 6:30 shaam ke baad khana nahi khauga.” Sahil promises Akshay that if he reaches the bonus round, he won't consume any food after 6:30 in the evening. Akshay extolls the virtues of having an early dinner Akshay tells the audience, “Majaak nahi kar raha lekin iske ache ke liye bol raha hoon, humare shastron mein likha hain ki suraj dhalne ke baad ghar ka stove bandh kar do kyuki peth ka stove bandh ho chuka hain.”  After sharing such an important health fact with the audience, Akshay pointed out that the reason he came up with this topic is that he cares for Sahil’s well-being and advises him to keep monitoring the kind of food he is consuming on a daily basis. Knowing Sahil is a foodie by nature, he continues the conversation by coming up with a witty punchline. “Main jaanta hoon teri wife ne tere liye diet chart banaya hain aur tu shaam ke baad khaana nahi khayega yeh bhi tune sabke samne bol diya hain, lekin iska matalab yeh nahi ki tu dopahar ko saara kitchen khajayega.”  The remark left the audience and Sahil in splits, perfectly balancing Akshay’s serious stance on health with the light-hearted spirit of the show.  Watch Wheel of Fortune, Monday to Friday at 9:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television and stream on Sony LIV.

08 April,2026 12:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Samay Raina

Comedian Samay Raina says he ‘played the room’ on KBC, roasts Amitabh Bachchan

Samay Raina is making headlines for his unfiltered humour in his latest comedy special Still Alive, where he takes a cheeky dig at Amitabh Bachchan and opens up about his experience on Kaun Banega Crorepati. During the special, Samay didn’t hold back as he humorously roasted the legendary actor, even questioning in jest, “Apne bete ko kyu nahi khada kar paye?” His bold style, laced with satire and irreverence, left audiences both amused and surprised. Samay Raina reveals he lied on sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati One of the most talked-about moments from the show was his candid confession about his appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati. Recalling his time on the quiz show, Samay admitted that he wasn’t entirely truthful while interacting with Bachchan. “You play the room,” he said, explaining how contestants often tailor their responses to suit the mood and setting of television. He further revealed that he had fabricated a personal anecdote during the show. “I lied that my grandmother is your fan,” he shared, highlighting how such moments are often crafted to connect with the host and audience. Known for his sharp observational comedy, Samay used these experiences to shed light on the behind-the-scenes reality of entertainment. His remarks offered a humorous yet insightful take on how people behave differently in high-pressure, high-visibility environments like television shows. Samay Raina hilariously roasts Amitabh Bachchan The comedian’s roast of Amitabh Bachchan, however, was delivered in a playful tone, staying true to his comedic persona. His performance blended personal anecdotes with exaggerated humour, making it clear that the intent was entertainment rather than criticism. Samay’s latest special also reflects his signature style fearless, self-aware, and unapologetically honest. By sharing stories from his own journey, he connects with audiences while also poking fun at larger industry dynamics. Having risen to fame through stand-up and digital platforms, Samay has built a reputation for pushing boundaries. His willingness to joke about even the biggest names in the industry is part of what sets him apart. The clip from Still Alive has quickly gone viral, sparking conversations across social media. While some viewers praised his honesty and humour, others debated the limits of roasting public figures. Regardless of the mixed reactions, one thing is certain—Samay Raina knows how to keep audiences talking. With his latest special, he once again proves that comedy can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, even when it takes aim at icons like Amitabh Bachchan.

08 April,2026 11:54 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Krystle D Souza and Nia Sharma. Pic/Nia's Instagram

Nia Sharma, Krystle D'Souza indulge in a jamming session

Actresses Nia Sharma and Krystle D'Souza, popular for their on-screen sibling bond in Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, were seen having a gala time while on a long drive in Nia’s luxury car. Taking to her social media account, Krystle shared a fun video of the two having a blast in the car. She captioned it as, “High on coffee and some careless whispers.” The two girls were seen singing a popular English song and jamming to it. For the uninitiated, and talking about Nia Sharma and Krystle D'Souza, the girls consider each other like soul sisters. Whether it's their on-screen roles or their off-screen connection, the reel sisters continue to set friendship and sibling goals. Sharma, who has made her mark with shows like Ek Hazaro Mein Meri Behna Hai and Jamai Raja, was last seen in Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment. Meanwhile, Krystle D'Souza, who has already carved her space in the industry, has been receiving appreciation for her song Shararat in the blockbuster movie Dhurandhar. The song also starred actress Ayesha Khan, alongside Krystle. Nia and Krystle were loved as Maanvi and Jeevika in the show Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai. Even after more than a decade since the show’s debut, the girls continue to remain BFFs. The show was about the bond between two sisters whose lives revolved around each other. Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behena Hai also starred Karan Tacker, Kushal Tandon and others. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

08 April,2026 10:11 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
Rajeev Khandelwal

Rajeev Khandelwal returns to TV to host game show Tum Ho Naa

After the massive success of Akshay Kumar's Wheel of Fortune India, Sony Pictures Networks India is all set to launch Tum Ho Naa, another brand-new reality game show. The show will premiere soon on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV. Rajeev Khandelwal to host Tum Ho Naa The show will be hosted by actor Rajeev Khandelwal, who was last seen in Amazon MX Player's courtroom drama series Amar Vishwas. He will be returning to television as a host after a 14-year hiatus, leaving fans curious and excited. He last hosted the show Sacch Ka Saamna, which ran from 2009 to 2012.  Check out the promo:           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by @sonytvofficial Speaking about hosting Tum Ho Naa, Rajeev Khandelwal said, “Over the years, I’ve been offered so many kinds of roles, some experimental, some quite unconventional. But I’ve always chosen to follow my heart and be part of something that genuinely feels meaningful to me. With the show Tum Ho Naa, I am happy to return on television with Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV and bring a beautiful show that is really close to my heart.” Stay tuned to Sony Entertainment Television & Sony LIV for more updates and information on Tum Ho Naa! Rajeev recalls shelved SLB film Chenab Gandhi In a discussion with Pinkvilla, Rajeev shared how he got the offer. He said, "Knowing that I’m popular, ek commercial film director came to me, jiske baare mein aap sab ko pata hoga. A popular filmmaker from our industry signed me. Unhone mujhe sign kiya aur main do film ke deal par tha, par film kabhi take off nahi hui. Since he was a commercial director, the projects seemed commercial, but the script was one of the very few good scripts that I had ever come across." I’m talking about Chenab Gandhi. Woh maine script ki wajah se kiya tha. I remember telling Mr. Bhansali, ‘aap na mujhe pehle test kare. You tell me that you want me. Post that, give me the liberty to ask you for the script, and also the freedom for me to say no. I know you are a senior director, but sir, aap pehle mere screen test aur look test kar lo. Jis din aap bologe, Rajeev, yes… I want you. Uske baad main script padunga, phir main bhi apna ek right rakhunga haan ya naa bolne ka.’” “Unhone uss baat ki kadar ki. 15–20 din tak hum milte rahe. Uske baad maine jaakar script padhi. Main script sunkar hil gaya aur maine kaha, ‘I will do it. I wanna do it.’ Not because of the setup, but because of the script.”

08 April,2026 08:47 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Anurag Dobhal

Bigg Boss 17's Anurag Dobhal visits Premanad Maharaj after fatal accident

YouTuber and Bigg Boss 17 fame Anurag Dobhal, also known as UK07 Rider, recently welcomed a baby on March 27, 2026, after suffering a near-death experience in a fatal accident. The YouTuber described the moment as his "second birth," after he reportedly attempted suicide by crashing his car. Days after the life-changing incidents, Anurag recently visited Vrindavan to seek blessings from Premanand Maharaj.  Anurag Dobhal visits Premanand Maharaj Anurag shared a video on Instagram where he is seen sitting in a wheelchair, followed by travelling to Vrindavan, visiting Premanand Ji Maharaj with the help of crutches. In the caption of the post, he wrote, "When you think it's all over, Premanand Maharaj Jee comes and saves you. Radhey Radhey." Fans soon began flooding the comment section with messages wishing him a speedy recovery. Many fans also prayed for the YouTuber’s speedy recovery. Responding to the post, one of his fans wrote, "AB HOGA BHAI KA COMEBACK," while another commented, "Ab to or age jana hai Anurag bhai."  Anurag Dobhal's accident The YouTuber came into the limelight after he publicly opened up about a serious fallout with his family, including his parents and wife, Ritika, following his inter-caste marriage. In a lengthy emotional video, Anurag Dobhal accused his parents and family members of mentally harassing him, publicly humiliating him in front of relatives, and refusing to accept his marriage. He also claimed that the situation worsened after marriage and even led to problems in his own marriage. Days later, Dobhal went live on Instagram while driving his car at high speed. During the livestream, the YouTuber appeared visibly emotional and distressed. At one point, he addressed his mother and expressed pain about not receiving enough love from her. Soon after, he reportedly sped up the car and referred to it as his “final drive.” The livestream then ended abruptly as  the vehicle crashed into a road divider, leaving viewers shocked and worried about his condition. His manager, Rohit Panday, later shared an update on his condition and revealed that the YouTuber had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). He also urged fans to pray for Dobhal’s recovery and thanked those who helped locate and assist him after the accident.

07 April,2026 06:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Still from Ruffle Dunali

Prince Narula, Kiran Bajwa say track Ruffle Dunali is about 'owning your space'

With Ruffle Dunali, Prince Narula teams up with Kiran Bajwa to deliver a track that feels both powerful and grounded. The duo talks about creating a track that blends attitude with authenticity. Prince and Kiran talk about the track Speaking about what drew him to the song, Prince shares, “For me, everything starts with the feeling. If I connect with something, I know the audience will too. Ruffle Dunali had that clarity from the beginning; it knows what it wants to say.” He further adds, “It’s about owning your space and not seeking validation. At some point, you stop explaining yourself and just focus on your work. This track carries that mindset.” Kiran Bajwa, who lends her voice to the track, echoes a similar sentiment. “We wanted to create something that stands out without following trends. The idea was to keep it powerful yet controlled, so that it connects instantly but also stays with the listener.” Together, the collaboration brings a balance of strong attitude and musical depth, making Ruffle Dunali a track that is both impactful and memorable. Prince reacts to divorce rumours During an interview with TimesNow, Prince spoke about the separation rumours with his wife, Yuvika Chaudhary. The Bigg Boss 9 winner acknowledged that while he and Yuvika do have fights and disagreements, it doesn’t mean they are headed for a split.  He said, “Every husband and wife has a tough time in their life. And it happened to us that we put up a video that people misunderstood and took out of context. I just expressed my feelings. We are very mature. If we wanted, we would have clarified at that time, too. Because we have never talked about being apart, and we never think about that. Fights happen between our parents. We also fight with our parents and siblings. It doesn't mean that we will get separated from them. So it's a very normal thing that there is a fight between a husband and wife.” Further talking about the biggest change in him and Yuvika after they welcomed their daughter, Prince noted that now he likes to take the first flight home after wrapping up the project. “We have become calm. We don't fight in normal life. The biggest happiness for us is our baby. Everyone revolves around her. We are able to spend more time… So that I can spend more time with my baby. Along with that, I will be able to spend more time with Yuvika. Many things have changed," Prince said.

07 April,2026 04:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Disha Vakani and Bhim Vakani

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah's Daya aka Disha Vakani's father passes away

Disha Vakani, best known for her iconic role as Dayaben in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, is mourning the loss of her father, veteran actor Bhim Vakani, who has passed away. Disha Vakani's father passed away Bhim Vakani, a respected name in Gujarati theatre and films, breathed his last recently, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of performing arts. While details about the cause of his death remain limited, the news has left fans and members of the entertainment industry deeply saddened. Known for his immense contribution to Gujarati theatre, Bhim Vakani was widely admired for his powerful stage presence and versatility. Over the years, he also appeared in several Hindi films and television shows, earning recognition for his supporting roles. Interestingly, he even shared screen space with his daughter in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, making their association even more special for fans. Apart from television, Bhim Vakani had worked in notable Bollywood films such as Lagaan, Swades, and Lajja, where he delivered memorable performances alongside some of the biggest stars in the industry. His journey as an artist spanned decades, and he remained deeply rooted in theatre, which continued to be his primary passion. For Disha Vakani, her father was not just a parent but also a guiding force who introduced her to the world of acting at a young age. Following in his footsteps, she began her journey in theatre before eventually rising to nationwide fame with her portrayal of Dayaben. The bond between the father-daughter duo was evident in their shared love for performance. Fans often appreciated their collaboration on screen, especially their appearance together in the popular sitcom, which added a personal touch to the show’s narrative. As news of his demise spreads, condolences have been pouring in from fans and well-wishers, remembering him as a talented artist and a humble individual. Many have also expressed support for Disha and her family during this difficult time. Who was Bhim Vakani Bhim Vakani’s passing marks the end of an era for Gujarati theatre. His contributions to the arts, both on stage and screen, will continue to be remembered by audiences and aspiring actors alike. While the Vakani family grieves this personal loss, Bhim Vakani’s legacy lives on through his work and through his daughter, who continues to remain one of television’s most beloved faces.

07 April,2026 12:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shubhangi Atre. File pic

Shubhangi Atre sheds light on her character in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain movie

Actress Shubhangi Atre, who essayed the role of Angoori Bhabhi in the Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! Fun On The Run has said that the film’s narrative does lend a new dimension to her fan-favourite character. Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! Fun On The Run is an Indian Hindi-language comedy drama film, and is based on the television series Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!. When asked if the shift from a show format to a film changed how she built this performance, she said, “No, I do not think so. We had to stay true to the character the way the audience has loved her for the past ten years. I do not think there was a need to do anything different. People love you for how you have been portraying the character. That said, the film does give each character a slightly different dimension because of the new situations, which was exciting to explore”. She believes Angoori’s USP is what makes her special, and it is important to stay true to that, as he said, “That is the best thing one can do for a character that people already love so much. It has been ten years, and people have given us so much love that itself is a very big thing for any show. Now you get to see the same characters on a bigger scale, with a fresh story, beautiful locations, and a wonderful cast”. “It is a complete entertainer that you can enjoy in one go, full of laughter and fun. So definitely watch it, keep laughing, keep loving, and lots of love to everyone”, she added. Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! Fun On The Run is available to stream on ZEE5. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

07 April,2026 10:45 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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