Three Indian naval ships arrive in Singapore as part of Eastern Fleet deployment to South China Sea

Three Indian naval ships arrive in Singapore as part of Eastern Fleet deployment to South China Sea Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Shakti, and Kiltan led by Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet arrived at Singapore on Monday to a warm welcome by personnel of Singapore Navy and the High Commissioner of India in Singapore, the Indian Navy said. The visit is part of the Operational Deployment of the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea. This visit is poised to further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two maritime nations through a series of engagements and activities. During the ships' stay in the harbour, various activities are planned to be undertaken including interactions with the High Commission of India, professional interactions with the Republic of Singapore Navy as also academia and community outreach amongst other activities, reflecting the shared values of both navies, the Indian Navy also said. The Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy have had robust relations spanning three decades of cooperation, coordination and collaboration with regular visits, exchange of best practices, and reciprocal training arrangements. The current deployment underscores the strong linkages between both the navies. China's assertiveness in the South China Sea has been steadily increasing, resulting in heightened tensions with Southeast Asian claimant states, particularly the Philippines, at the Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. In recent years, satellite imagery has shown China's increased efforts to reclaim land in the South China Sea by physically increasing the size of islands or creating new islands altogether. The Philippines Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 3 summoned China's deputy chief of mission Zhou Zhiyong on Thursday. Philippines' action comes two days after the incident at a disputed shoal that caused damage to a Philippine coastguard vessel and another government boat. The ministry said it was the 20th protest by the Philippines against the conduct of Chinese coastguard and fishing vessels this year. The ministry has made 153 complaints in the past two years. In a statement, the Philippines Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, The Philippines protested the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous manoeuvres, use of water cannons, and other aggressive actions of [the] China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia. China has claimed almost the entire South China Sea rejecting claims from other nations, including the Philippines, and an international ruling that states that these claims have no legal basis. Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam also claim the parts of the sea. (ANI)

Anti-Ram: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai on Mulayam cousins remark on Ram Mandir

The News Mill

Apple's Big Event: New iPad Pro Brings Exciting Upgrades

Apple is gearing up for a major overhaul of its iPad lineup, set to be unveiled during the Let Loose Event starting at 7 am Pacific Time today (7:30 pm India time). Among the highlights, the iPad Pro is expected to debut with significant enhancements, including a groundbreaking M4 chipset and a larger 12.9-inch display, while the iPad Air might also see upgrades. Adcanced M4 Chipset: According to a recent report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is poised to introduce its cutting-edge M4 chipset with the new iPad Pro lineup. This powerhouse chip is anticipated to leverage advanced processing capabilities, particularly in handling demanding artificial intelligence tasks on the tablet. Gurman hints that further details about these AI features will likely be unveiled at the WWDC event in June, where the latest versions of iPadOS and iOS will be announced. Vibrant OLED Display: Rumors suggest that Apple is finally embracing OLED technology for its iPad Pro lineup, a feature long enjoyed in the iPhone series since 2017. The OLED display is expected to boast LTPO technology and a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, promising superior contrast, vibrant colors, and smoother visuals. Sleeker Design: The adoption of OLED panels in the iPad Pro series is anticipated to bring about a slimmer profile and reduced bezels. Reports indicate that both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models will benefit from this redesign, with the larger variant potentially seeing a 20% reduction in thickness and the smaller variant around 15%. Additionally, Apple is rumored to relocate the selfie camera to the sides of the device, ensuring it remains upright in landscape mode. Potential Price Increase: While exact details on pricing remain unconfirmed, reputable sources suggest that the extensive upgrades could lead to a price hike for the iPad Pro lineup. Earlier reports from DigiTimes hinted at an increase of around $160, while recent speculation from 9to5Mac suggests a possible rise of approximately $100. Apple Accelerates Work on Foldable Devices: What to Expect Next Apple's Next Flagship: What to Expect from the iPhone 17 Series iPhone lasts only for so many years, know how long your phone will remain safe

Actor Shekhar Suman and Radhika Khera Switch Allegiances, Join BJP Amid Lok Sabha Elections 2024

Popular actor Shekhar Suman and former Congress National Media Coordinator Radhika Khera have officially joined the BJP. The announcement came during a gathering at the BJP headquarters in Delhi, according to news agency ANI. The move follows the recent affiliations of well-known TV actor Rupali Ganguly and astrologer Ameya Joshi with the BJP. Explaining his decision, Shekhar Suman revealed that he waited for the success of Heeramandi before making the leap into politics. I didn't want people to think I had nothing else to do, that's why I joined politics. Heeramandi has now become a global hit, said the comedian-actor. He attributed his entry into politics to what he believes is divine intervention. Quoting from Ram Charitmanas, he said, It's all part of the divine plan. Suman expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, Until yesterday, I didn't expect to be here today because life often takes unexpected turns. I am here with a positive mindset, and I thank God for guiding me. Read More: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Kharge Raises Concerns Over Poll Data Discrepancies PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Ahmedabad: Voting Day Excitement India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: What's at Stake in Phase 3?

Akshay Kumar praises Sonakshi Sinha's performance in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's latest web series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, has been making waves since its release on Netflix on May 1. With a star-studded cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, and others, the series has sparked discussions and garnered both praise and criticism on social media. Amidst the buzz, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has shared his thoughts on the series, particularly praising Sonakshi Sinha's performance. Taking to Instagram, Akshay Kumar shared his review of Heeramandi and didn't shy away from acknowledging Sinha's acting prowess, he took his Instagram story and wrote Watching #Heeramandi, such a grand spectacle! Great going @aslisona @bhansaliproductions. Known for her versatility, Sinha steps into the role of Fareedan, a character described as nuanced and layered, seeking revenge and justice in the city of Lahore. Kumar's praise adds to the chorus of acclaim surrounding Sinha's portrayal in the series. Akshay Kumar's endorsement of Sonakshi Sinha's performance holds weight, given their past collaborations in successful films like Rowdy Rathore and Holiday. Their camaraderie off-screen adds depth to Kumar's appreciation for Sinha's talent, reinforcing the positive reception she has received for her role in Heeramandi. Heeramandi boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Shekhar Suman, Fardeen Khan, Adhyayan Suman, Farida Jalal, and others in significant roles. Set against the backdrop of Lahore, the web series promises to be a cinematic masterpiece, weaving intricate tales of love, revenge, and betrayal. As the series continues to captivate audiences, Akshay Kumar's praise serves as a testament to the compelling performances driving its success. Also Read: Sonakshi Sinha on her one-take shot in Heeramandis Tilasmi Bahein song: Entire set, including Sanjay Leela Bhansali, gave a standing ovation

Manisha Koirala on Heeramandi, Very dear actress friend asked if Rekha has dubbed for me

The beautiful Manisha Koirala has been through a helluva lot in life. She feels her suffering has made her a better human being and actor. Of course, the experiences of life contribute to a performance. I now have a bank of emotions. I understand life much more deeply now. I see through people. The complexities of human behaviour are more comprehensible to me. There is an empathy I feel to everything around me. Of course, with time, life pain and suffering, I thinkIvebecome a better person. Itdoesntalways work that way. A lot of people become bitter rather than better after suffering. I dont ever want to ever be bitter resentful or vengeful. From a young age, it has been my constant effort to not hurt anyone. I wish I had been careful about not hurting myself. It has been a conscious effort for me to retain my innocence and vulnerability. I dont want to be a person who knows it all, she said. Manishas association with Sanjay Leela Bhansali goes back a long way. I first met him during the shooting of Vidhu Vinod Chopras 1942: A Love Story. Then Khamoshi, he directed. Then there was a long gap. Honestly, I am in awe of the man. He has evolved a lot. He makes grandeur look so cool. Not too many people talk about Khamoshi now. But the same subject was made in Hollywood two years ago (Sian Heders Coda) and that film got the Oscars. Khamoshi is very special: it is sensitive and poetic. Every characterHelenji, Seema Biswasji, Nana Patekar, Salman and mewere so beautifully written. He created a beautiful world in Khamoshi. Heeramandi has so much grandeur. If Sanjay can make a very intimate Khamoshi, he can also make a lavish Heeramandi. His range is staggering, she said. The Khamoshi actress admits she has evolved over the years. I have changed a lot, Subhash, I am no longer what I was. Everyone changes. Havent you? So, have I. When I was younger, I was so much more impulsive. I was very instinctive in my acting. It was almost like God was guiding me to do what the director wanted without me working hard. It didnt feel like I was putting in too much preparation. Nowadays, I love to prepare for my role. I dont want to do anything that I have done before. I could just mimic myself and be done with it. But no. I want to be an original, better version of who I was. At least I want to try to be different in each and every film, she said. She reveals that she prepared profusely for her character Mallikajaan in Heeramandi. You must have noticed the change in my voice? I worked really hard on it. A very dear actress friend of mine asked if Rekha dubbed for me in Heeramandi. I was thrilled she thought so. It meant that I wasnt sounding like Manisha Koirala. I worked very hard on my diction and voice modulation. Sanjay gave me a very good diction coach, Muneera Suratiji. All the Heeramandi actors worked with her. I worked the maximum with her. I knew my nukhtas and the spoken Urdu were not perfect. I wanted my weak point to be my plus. And of course, there was Sanjay Bhansali always there to guide and restrain me. He is a director who believes in God being in the detailing. His expertise was invaluable, said the actress. Manisha reveals her dancing skills as seen in Heeramandi are genetical. As far as the body language was concerned, Mallikajaan was the huzoor of all the tawaifs. She had to be larger than life. She had evidently learnt Kathak and Hindustani classical singing during childhood. She reminded me of my Daadi, who was a Bharat Natyam and Manipuri dancer. My mom was a Kathak and Bharat Natyam dancer. We used to have great dance and music get-togethers at home. Sitara Bua (Kathak exponent Sitara Devi) has come to my apartment when she was very old. She would sit in the chair and dance with her eyes and hands. Pandit Birju Maharaj was my moms teacher. Chandrashekhar ji a renowned Bharat Natyam dancer was a family friend. So, Ive grown up in an environment of classical dancing and singing. I copied the graceful postures of my Mom and Daadi. I tried to remember how they talked and walked, said the actress. Manisha sketched a backstory for Mallikajaan. I drew a backstory of her mental landscape. She must have been scarred from a very young age. You know, I also drew inspiration from Meryl Streeps The Devil Wears Prada, how casually evil she could be. She would say such evil words and then casually move away while her juniors would be shattered. I also saw Peaky Blinders as a reference. You dont have to be screaming and making faces to be evil. You can be ice-cold evil. Thats what I wanted Mallikajaan to be. These were my role models. I dont know how much Ive succeeded. Knowing how scarred Mallikjaan was at a young age, and the fire that she had in her belly to rule at any cost the whole environment in the Kotha is such that women dont have too many choices. Its a cutthroat world. There are a lot of shades to Mallikajaan. I had to gauge her emotional intelligence and play her as an ice-cold evil woman. I had requested Sanjay to let me into the sets to imbibe the universe that she rules. A few days before shooting I had gone on the sets and spent many hours trying to absorb what it feels like to rule in this place. I took in everything. With the help of my brilliant director and the team, everything fell into place for me. Sanjay decided her clothes and her jewellery but I had to interpret Mallikajaans inner world with his guidance. All emotions dont necessarily come from a personal space. As actors we have to act and not necessarily go deep within ourselves to bring out the emotions. What I really had to is understand Mallikajaans psyche, what her childhood must be, what her sister must have done to her, the fear and trauma After her child was born, it was taken away with her. I had to understand what she does, and why. I had to go into Mallikajaans inner world. Her value system had to be understood. She is just not evil. She is also a mother. She has that protective instinct. But she will also throw any person out like a fly in the milk. I constantly had discussion with Sanjay to understand the character thoroughly, said Manisha. At this stage of her career, Manisha is looking for new challenges. I want to play characters Ive never done before, and I want to do them with flair and finesse, she said. I really want to do characters who are alien to me. Before I die, I want to play a character the way Balraj Sahniji did, so effortlessly. He played a sophisticated man in Anuradha and a rickshaw puller in Do Bigha Zameen equally well. I want to be that kind of an actor who can play anyone equally well. Where people dont see Manisha Koirala. They see only the character. I hope I get such a role. But its not in my hands. I want sensitive directors like Sanjay Bhansali, Mani Rathnam and Vidhu Vinod Chopra to work with me again. Also Read: Rekhas heartfelt words of praise leave Manisha Koirala teary-eyed: My prayers have come true

From Vicky Kaushal to Triptii Dimri to Richa Chadha: 8 actors that dominated the screen despite brief roles

A dialogue from Hrishikesh Mukherjees classic Anand goes like Zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahin. The same goes for on screen appearances too. In the vast expanse of cinema, some actors carve out unforgettable moments with roles that are brief but powerful, leaving an indelible mark on the audience's memory. Heres looking at 8 actors who left behind a solid impact despite limited screen time. Siddhant Chaturvedi - Gully Boy As MC Sher, Siddhant Chaturvedi didn't just play a supporting character in Gully Boy; he became the embodiment of mentorship and inspiration. His character served as a guiding light for the protagonist, Murad (Ranveer Singh), navigating him through the trials and tribulations of the rap scene in Mumbai's streets. Chaturvedi's charismatic performance, coupled with his natural flair for rap, resonated deeply with audiences, earning him widespread acclaim and launching him into the limelight. Richa Chadha - Heeramandi Despite her limited appearance in Sanja Leela Bhansalis web debut Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, Richa Chadha made a lasting impact with her portrayal as Lajjo. Through her nuanced performance, she breathed life into her character, infusing it with depth and complexity. Richa's ability to convey a wide range of emotions in a short span of time left a profound impression on viewers, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actor. Triptii Dimri - Animal In the psychological thriller Animal, Triptii Dimri's brief but enigmatic appearance added layers of intrigue to the narrative. Through her captivating performance, she drew audiences into the mysterious world of the film, leaving them spellbound by her character's mystique. Triptiis ability to command attention with her presence and convey depth through subtle gestures showcased her immense talent as an actor. She even got a title of being a 'National Crush. Bobby Deol - Animal Bobby Deol's brief yet impactful appearance in Animal showcased his versatility as an actor. In a role that demanded intensity and gravitas, Bobby Deol delivered a performance that left audiences on the edge of their seats. His commanding presence and powerful portrayal as a mute character added depth to the film's narrative, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and critics alike. Vicky Kaushal - Dunki In Rajkumar Hiranis Dunki, Vicky Kaushal captivated audiences with his portrayal of a complex character. Despite his limited screen time, Vicky imbued his role with depth and emotion, bringing the character to life with authenticity and vulnerability. His nuanced performance added layers to the film's storyline, earning him praise for his ability to convey a wide range of emotions with subtlety and restraint. Mrunal Thakur - Made In Heaven Mrunal Thakur's performance in the web series Made In Heaven showcased her versatility and range as an actor. In a role that required both strength and vulnerability, Mrunal delivered a captivating performance that resonated with audiences. Her ability to inhabit her character with authenticity and emotion left a lasting impression, earning her praise for her compelling portrayal. Her episode received maximum appreciation from the audiences as it was based on marital abuse. Mrunal's character was a relatable character, which she performed so naturally that it got eyeballs from the critics as well. Nawazuddin Siddiqui - Badlapur Nawazuddin Siddiqui's portrayal of the antagonist in Badlapur was nothing short of mesmerizing. Despite his limited screen time, Nawaz commanded attention with his menacing presence and nuanced performance in a negative role. His portrayal as a villain added a depth and complexity to the film's narrative, leaving audiences riveted by his character's every move. Pankaj Tripathi - Angrezi Medium Pankaj Tripathi's brief yet memorable appearance in Angrezi Medium showcased his impeccable comic timing and effortless charm. In a role that required both humor and heart, Pankaj delivered a performance that left audiences in stitches while also tugging at their heartstrings. His ability to steal every scene he was in demonstrated his immense talent as an actor and left an indelible mark on the film's narrative. Also Read: Bollywood Hungama Style Icons 2024: Richa Chadha talks about wearing expensive jewellery in Heeramandi: I could have made a Hindi film with all the jewellery that was also on me

Indian navy ships arrive at Singapore

A view of Visakhapatnam beach. (Image source:Facebook) A view of Visakhapatnam beach. (Image source:Facebook) Visakhapatnam: Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Shakti, and Kiltan led by Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet arrived at Singapore on Monday to a warm welcome by personnel of Republic of Singapore Navy and the High Commissioner of India in Singapore, said a release issued by Eastern Naval Command on Tuesday. The release said the visit is part of the Operational Deployment of the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea. This visit is poised to further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two maritime nations through a series of engagements and activities. During the ships' stay in harbour, various activities planned to be undertaken include interactions with the High Commission of India, professional interactions with the Republic of Singapore Navy as also academia and community outreach amongst other activities, reflecting the shared values of both navies. The Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy have had robust relations spanning three decades of cooperation, coordination and collaboration with regular visits, exchange of best practices, and reciprocal training arrangements. The current deployment underscores the strong linkages between both the navies, the release added.

J&K | ACB Arrests Naib Tehsildar, Khrew For Accepting Bribe

Srinagar, May 07: Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday said to have trapped and arrested Naib Tehsildar Khrew, Pulwama while a Constable was also held for allegedly facilitating the offence. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The spokesman said J&K Anti Corruption Bureau received a complaint against Naib Tehsildar, Khrew, District Pulwama alleging therein that the said Naib-Tehsildar is demanding Rs 10,000 from complainant through his clerk namely Ajaz Ahmad for settlement of dispute of ancestral land at village Sathpokhran, [] The post J&K | ACB Arrests Naib Tehsildar, Khrew For Accepting Bribe appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fundamentally anti-Hindu: Yogi rips SP, Cong over Ram Mandir remark by Mulayam's cousin

Fundamentally anti-Hindu: Yogi rips SP, Cong over Ram Mandir remark by Mulayam's cousin Hitting back at Samajwadi Party heavyweight Ram Gopal Yadav over his indecorous comment on the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said be it the SP or its ally, the Congress, they were fundamentally 'anti-Hindu' and 'anti-Ram'. In an interview to a Hindi television news channel earlier in the day, Ram Gopal, the cousin of late SP patriarch and former CM Mulayam Singh Yadav, termed the Ram Temple a 'bekar Mandir' (flawed and useless temple), adding that it was not built in accordance with Vastu. It (Ram Mandir) is a useless temple. The blueprint of the temple was flawed and it was not built in accordance with Vastu, the senior SP leader added. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, CM Yogi said, These are the same people, who opened fire on Kar Sevaks and denied the existence of Lord Ram. Be it the Samajwadi Party or Congress, they are fundamentally anti-Hindu and anti-Ram. These are the same people who opened fire on Kar Sevaks and even denied the existence of Lord Ram. So it is meaningless to expect such leaders to be sensitive to the religious sentiments of the majority of the country's population and our avowed deities. Ram Gopal Yadav's statement has unmasked the true face of the INDI alliance, the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. They are playing with our faith and sentiments to please and cater to their vote bank, he said. Yogi said the Opposition leaders were under the compulsion to air such views to be in the good graces of their vote bank amid the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. They can go to any lengths to appease their vote bank. They tried their utmost to keep the title dispute in the Supreme Court and ensure the matter wasn't settled. They set obstacles on the path to settling the matter decisively. It was only after the BJP came to power (at the Centre in 2014) that the proceedings gained momentum. Today, the temple stands proudly at the birthplace of Ram Lalla and people from across the country and beyond are visiting the shrine, Yogi said. (ANI)

Watch: Shekhar Suman joins BJP amid Lok Sabha Elections 2024, says 'many things in life...'

Shekhar Suman, who recently appeared in the web series Heeramandi, joined BJP amid the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

Radhika Khera likely to join BJP

Hyderabad: Former Congress National Media Coordinator Radhika Khera, who quit the party for facing harassment from a few leaders, is likely to join BJP shortly. She earlier said she was locked inside a room for visiting Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. When I complained that I was locked in a room in the Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress party office and faced problems, none came to my rescue. I brought the matter to the notice of all the senior leaders but I did not get justice, she said. Even after lodging a complaint six days ago, no action was taken against those who harassed her. Unable to bear the harassment, she quit Congress, launching a scathing attack against the Congress and a few of the party leaders. Former Congress leader Gourav Vallab, former Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee president Arvind Singh Lovely and former Congress spokesperson Rohan Gupta joined BJP a few days ago.

Manisha Koirala is back with a bang in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar!

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar has finally been released and has started to create waves across the globe. SLB fondly decorated the 8 episodic series with enthralling sets, an amazing cast, and a larger-than-life world. While the show has been garnering love from audiences, celebrities, and critics for almost everything that SLB has [] The post Manisha Koirala is back with a bang in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar! appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Shekhar Suman Steps Into Politics Amid Lok Sabha Elections 2024; Heeramandi Star Joins BJP

Shekhar Suman is currently enjoying the success of his recently released show, Heeramandi.

Vittalapur residents boycott Lok Sabha elections demanding justice for death of pregnant woman in community health centre in Karnataka

The villagers would come to the polling station and cast their votes only after the transfer or suspension of the doctor who they blamed for the death of a pregnant woman

Vivek Agnihotri Criticizes SLBs Heeramandi For Glorifying Brothels

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis series Heeramandi has garnered praise from his fans, but it has also drawn criticism for its romanticized depiction of the lives of tawaifs and kothas. Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri recently voiced his dissent, arguing that the series glorifies the existence of courtesans and brothels. Following the criticism, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri now shared a [] Read on Lehren - Vivek Agnihotri Criticizes SLBs Heeramandi For Glorifying Brothels

Shruti Sharma on Sharmin Segal being trolled for 'Heeramandi'

Shruti Sharma on Sharmin Segal being trolled for Heeramandi

PM Narendra Modi Attacks Rahul Gandhi For 'Intention to Overturn Ram Mandir Verdict'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hit out at Congress for anti-national statements made by the leaders of the party and INDI alliance.

Met Gala 2024: Alia Bhatt shines bright in a saree crafted by 163 skilled artisans; Soni Razdan & Shaheen react

Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt captivated audiences with her bold fashion statement at the 2024 Met Gala, donning a stunning shimmery saree by Sabyasachi. Her choice of attire was not only a nod to her Indian heritage but also perfectly aligned with the event's theme, 'Garden of Time.' As she ascended the Met stairs, Alia's extensive train enveloped nearly the entire red carpet, commanding attention and admiration. This masterpiece of a saree was hand-embroidered by 163 skilled craftsmen over 1,905 man-hours. Alia's elegant representation of her Indian roots through her ensemble mesmerized internet users worldwide. Among the first to react to her post were her mother, Soni Razdan, and sister, Shaheen. This marked Alia's second appearance at the Met Gala, following her stunning debut in 2023. Next, audiences can anticipate her performance in Vasan Balas much-awaited film, Jigra, where she co-stars with Vedang Raina. Scheduled for release on September 27 later this year, the film promises to be a cinematic treat eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike.

Manisha Koirala Breaks Silence On Oral S*x Scene With Shekhar Suman In Heeramandi

Actress Manisha Koirala, reuniting with Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Heeramandi after 28 years, shared her thoughts on working with the Bollywood filmmaker. She also discussed the highly-discussed oral s*x scene involving her and Shekhar Suman. In a chat with Bollywood Bubble, Manisha Koirala revealed, I was in Nepal doing gardening when I got a call [] Read on Lehren - Manisha Koirala Breaks Silence On Oral S*x Scene With Shekhar Suman In Heeramandi

Is 'Heeramandi' glorifying courtesans? Co-director Snehil Dixit clarifies

Is Heeramandi glorifying courtesans Codirector Snehil Dixit clarifies

Students of engineering college in Hyderabad demand holidays due to summer heat

Hyderabad: Several students of an engineering college in Hyderabad staged a protest demanding holidays due to the summer heat. The students of Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Technology (MGIT) staged a protest demanding the management to declare holidays. Students raise slogans outside engineering college in Hyderabad The students were seen raising slogans outside the college campus. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

PM Modi accuses YSRC & Congress of corruption

RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM/ANAKAPELLE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a scathing attack on the YSRC and Congress, accusing them of indulging in rampant corruption. Speaking at NDAs election rallies at Vemagiri in Rajamahendravaram and Rajupalem in Anakapalle on Monday, Modi said both parties are cut from the same cloth. Citing the seizure of mountains of cash at the house of a servant of the personal secretary of Jharkhand Rural Development minister and Congress leader Alamgir Alam, the Prime Minister wondered why such persons were close to the Congress first family. He further quipped, They (Congress) have turned the workers house a godown of corruption. Pointing out that this is not the first time such a huge cash haul has been reported, Modi recalled, Earlier also a big sum of cash was seized at an MPs residence in Jharkhand. The catch was so huge, even machines were tired of counting. Demanding to know if the money was stacked in the godown to supply it, he said, The country wants to know from Congress Shehzada (referring to Rahul Gandhi), if the partys first family has established warehouses of black money. PM Modi leads grand procession in Ayodhya amidst saffron sea of supporters PM Narendra Modi and JSP chief Pawan Kalyan during Praja Galam meeting | Express YSRC can manage corruption, not finances: PM Stating that he was seeking legal consultations on returning the stolen money to the rightful owners, Modi explained, As of now, the ED (Enforcement Directorate) has only caught hold of property worth `1.15 lakh crore. But if you sum all of these up, it accounts for many crores of rupees. Hence, I am consulting with legal experts to try and get back peoples money that was stolen. Asserting that it is Modis guarantee that no poor person will be affected, he said `17,000 crore has already been returned to the rightful owners. Training his guns on the ruling YSRC in Andhra Pradesh, the Prime Minister alleged, The government wanted to establish three capitals with a motive of looting the State, but could not as the exchequer was empty. YSRC can manage corruption, but not finances. Further, Modi said the YSRC had an opportunity to prove its mettle for five years, but it wasted the time and also let the States potential go to waste. When Chandrababu Naidu was in power, the State was at the peak of its league. But the YSRC government derailed all that progress. Instead of working for the welfare of the people, the YSRC drowned the State in debt, Modi claimed. He reiterated, Be it anywhere, only NDA can guarantee welfare. Stating that the youth of Andhra Pradesh are known for their technological skills and acumen, Modi said the State should grow along with the country. However, under the present regime, development has been zero and corruption has been 100%, he criticised the ruling YSRC. Cautioning people to be wary of the Congress, he remarked, Till 10 years ago, all that the country saw was scams. Emphasising that development would be possible only with a double-engine NDA government, he asserted that the State will script a new chapter in growth after June 4. Stating that the NDAs mantra is reform, perform, and transform, Modi said, Your right vote will transform problems into opportunities. Questioning the YSRC governments credibility, Modi sought to know how its promise of total prohibition became a liquor business run by the government forming syndicates. Liquor, sand, and land mafia rule the roost in the State, he alleged. Elaborating on the Centres contribution to the development of the State, he blamed the YSRC government for delaying the Polavaram project. The Prime Minister said though the Centre released `15,000 crore, the State government could not complete the irrigation project. It has curtailed the lifeline of the State, he said. Claiming that the farmers of the State were struggling for proper irrigation, and werent even receiving MSP (Minimum Support Price) for paddy, Modi promised that after June 4, the NDA government in the State will address all these problems. Referring to the Uttarandhra Sujjala Sravanthi Project, Modi said Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy did not continue the projects taken up by his father and former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy. Modi also found fault with the YSRC government for not distributing even half of the total 24 lakh houses allocated under the PM Awas Yojana. Further, he assured good days for sugarcane farmers and fisherfolk under the NDA government in the coming days. While TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh, Jana Sena president Pawan Kalyan and BJP State unit chief D Purandeswari were present in Rajahmundry during PM Modis public address, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu and JSP secretary general Nagendra Babu attended the meeting in Anakapalle. The Prime Minister left soon after his public address, before Naidu began his speech. Muslims now stand with BJP; understood Congress, INDIA bloc using them as pawns: PM Modi

Man Dies After Being Hit By Unknown Vehicle In Bolangir

Bolangir: A man was killed after being hit by an unknown vehicle on NH 16, near Sundhimunda village under Sindhekela police station in Bolangir district on Tuesday. Angry local people and family members of the deceased have blocked the road demanding compensation. The post Man Dies After Being Hit By Unknown Vehicle In Bolangir appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Manisha Koirala Was Asked About Heeramandi Oral Sex Scene With Shekhar Suman. What She Said

Manisha Koirala plays the role of Mallikajaan in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar

Manisha Koirala Was Asked About Heeramandi Oral Sex Scene. What She Said

Manisha Koirala plays the role of Mallikajaan in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar

Must-Watch OTT Releases in May 2024

OTT platforms offer a variety of shows and movies every month, catering to different tastes and preferences. From action-packed thrillers to heartwarming dramas, there's something for everyone, even this month. Here are some must-watch releases for May 2024: 1. The Idea Of You (Amazon Prime) - May 2, 2024 Anne Hathaway stars in this romantic drama based on Robinne Lee's best-selling book. Follow Solne Marchand's unexpected romance with a younger musician during a trip to Coachella. 2. Yodha (Amazon Prime) - May 15, 2024 Sidharth Malhotra leads this high-octane action movie as Arun Katyal, a commanding officer on a thrilling rescue mission. With adrenaline-pumping sequences, this film promises an exciting watch. 3. Panchayat Season 3 (Amazon Prime) - May 28, 2024 Jitendra Kumar returns in this popular series, depicting the struggles of an engineering graduate working as a Gram Panchayat secretary in a remote village. With its engaging storyline, this season is highly anticipated. 4. Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar (Netflix) - Already Streaming Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this period drama set against the backdrop of India's freedom struggle promises an epic tale of love, power, and revenge. Featuring a stellar cast, including Sonakshi Sinha and Manisha Koirala, this series is a visual treat. 5. Manjummel Boys (Disney+ Hotstar) - Already Streaming Based on a real-life incident, this Malayalam survival movie follows a group of friends on vacation in Kodaikanal. With its gripping narrative and stellar performances, it's a must-watch for Malayalam cinema enthusiasts. 6. Aavesham (Amazon Prime Video) - Tentative Date: May 17, 2024 This Malayalam action comedy follows three teens entangled in a brawl in Bangalore. Directed by Jithu Madhavan and starring Fahadh Faasil, this film promises tension, humor, and unexpected twists. 7. Rathnam (Amazon Prime Video) - May 2024 Directed by Hari, this action-packed film follows Rathnam as he fights for justice in Vellore. Starring Vishal and Priya Bhavani Shankar, it's a thrilling ride filled with drama and suspense. 8. Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life (Disney+Hotstar) - May 10, 2024 Based on a true story, this Malayalam movie follows Najeeb Muhammed's struggles in Saudi Arabia. With stellar performances and a gripping storyline, it's a must-watch for its powerful portrayal of human resilience. These must-watch releases offer something for everyone, from gripping action to heartwarming dramas. Make sure to add them to your watchlist this May!

Smartee Showcases Mandibular Repositioning Technology at IDEM Singapore 2024

Smartee Denti-Technology, a global leader in digital orthodontic solutions, proudly announces its successful ...

IPL 2024, MI vs SRH: Suryakumar Yadav hammers century as Mumbai Indians clinch dominant victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad

In a cricketing spectacle that captivated fans at Wankhede Stadium here on Monday, Mumbai Indians orchestrated a masterful chase to secure a commanding seven-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the ongoing tournament.

BJP daydreaming of coming to power: Odisha CM

BHUBANESWAR : Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed that a BJP government will be sworn in on June 10 in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik came out with a stinging rebuttal terming it a daydream of the saffron party for many years. The chief ministers response came after 5T chairman and BJD leader VK Pandian informed him about the BJPs claim of forming government in the state while the two leaders were on their way from Bhawanipatna to address an election meeting at Khariar. The BJP is day dreaming since a long time, he said. Pandian shared the video of the chief ministers reaction on Instagram. While addressing an election meeting at Berhampur, the Prime Minister had asserted that June 4 is the expiry date of the BJD government in the state. The BJP government in Odisha will be sworn in on June 10, he stated. In a direct counter to the announcement of the Prime Minister, the 5T chairman said at the Bhawanipatna meeting that a BJD government will be sworn in for the sixth time in Odisha on June 9. The new government will be sworn in between 11.30 am and 1.30 pm, he added. Pandian said the chief minister has the blessings of Lord Jagannath because of which he is serving the people of the state without any self-interest and will continue to do so. The chief minister will create a history by leading the government for the sixth consecutive time. Odisha will create a new history, he said. Addressing the election meetings at Bhawanipatna and Khariar, the chief minister said the big promises made by the Opposition political parties were all lies. Stating that the leaders of the Opposition parties do not have any commitment for Odisha or Odia people, he said they remember Odisha only during election time. He urged the people to vote for Jodi Sankha- one for MLA and another for MP. The chief minister asked the people whether programmes and schemes launched by the state government like Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, Mamata, Mission Shakti, Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa, 5T transformation of schools and LAccMI bus service were good. There was a positive response of people to these schemes launched by the government. BJD candidate from Kalahandi Lok Sabha seat Lamobadar Nial and Assembly segment nominees of Kalahandi and Nuapada districts were present with the CM.

Karnataka gets monsoon-ready

BENGALURU: The recent incidence of rainfall across parts of Karnataka hints at the onset of monsoon. Accordingly, the Revenue Department has written to Regional Commissioners, DCs and Chief Executive Officers to prepare for heavy rain. The officials have been instructed to identify low-lying areas, hold coordination meetings with relevant departments, and make preparations to quickly alert residents near dams, among others. A circular issued by the state disaster management from the revenue department informs that as per IMD prediction, a whopping 104 per cent rainfall is expected across the country, while Karnataka would also receive more rain. With this, there is a need to take precautionary measures to avoid any eventualities in the wake of heavy downpour. There is also the need to convene and distribute responsibilities with other departments for better management. The authorities have instructed DCs to identify low-lying areas, for which coordination is required with the Urban Development Department/RDPR and also the PWD. Announce special package for rain-hit farmers Mysuru: Raitha Sangha activists blocked the busy Mysuru-Ooty Road and staged a protest demanding that the government announce a special package for the crops destroyed in rain havoc and start goshala to feed cattle due to the prevailing drought condition. The activists led by Baghyaraj, said farmers have lost banana and other horticulture crops and urged the government to announce a special package to bail out the farmers from huge losses. Drought and strong winds in the past days have caused extensive damage to standing crops in more than 1,500 acres.

Making strides, serving victory in TT tournaments

CHENNAI: Passion and skill are two important aspects for any player. But when you have the right coach who understands your strengths and weaknesses, you win games. MR Balamurugan, a talented teenager who has been making rapid strides in the table tennis scene, improved his game ever since he graduated to train under ace coach and former India player S Raman at Raman TT High Performance Center (RTTHPC). Along with winning individual games, he has also made a mark by winning national and international meets. Currently, this 16-year-old is ranked No 1 in India in the Under-17 category. A student of Maharishi Vidhya Mandir, Chetpet, Chennai (NIOS), Balamurugan got into the sport at the age of seven, following in the footsteps of his sister who was a table tennis player. My elder sister used to play table tennis. After some tournaments, she used to discuss how she won the match. She was appreciated a lot at home and this grabbed my attention and propelled me to play table tennis, he added. What started as a mere exercise soon became a passion. In my formative years, I joined table tennis for physical and mental fitness, but subsequently as time progressed I developed a passion for it. I felt table tennis was an extraordinary game that improved my memory, ability, critical thinking, and strategic planning. Physically it helped in eye coordination, faster reflexes, and body movement, said Balamurugan. He first trained at MAK Table Tennis Academy and his first coach was Ashok Kumar. Like every other TT star that emerged from the state, Balamurugan took part in various tournaments organised by the Tamil Nadu Table Tennis Association. These tourneys are said to give players good exposure and also help them prepare for the nationals. My first win was the first State Ranking tournament in 2016 where I won in the Mini-Cadets category. But it was the National Championship held in Goa in 2017, where our team won the gold medal in the Cadet Boys category by beating the defending champions West Bengal team in the final which was a neck-to-neck match. I was appreciated by my fellow association members and players for the best performance in the tournament. This encouraged me to take up table tennis seriously, he shared. There has been a great improvement in his game and skill sets since he began training under noted coach S Raman at his academy in 2020. I did this to get high-standard training under experienced coaches to improve my game and compete with national and international level players. S Raman sir and R Bhuvaneshwari have been very helpful. In fact, under them, I got to improve my skill sets and learnt to use strategies during matches. My practice sessions became more useful and I could develop a good mindset, said Balamurugan. After his RTTHPC stint, the medals tally improved by leaps and bounds for this youngster as he had a better understanding of his game. From winning state titles in a singles category I managed to bag multiple, consecutive titles at international and national level meets. From playing in competitions in the same age group I graduated and started to win titles in the mens category. I bagged several medals at the South Asian championships. In the WTT Youth Contender in U-15 boys singles, 2022 at Cairo, Egypt, I got a silver medal. In 2023 at the UTT National Ranking I got a gold medal at the championship played at various venues, he said. With table tennis now being termed a speed sport, Balamurugan gives equal importance to fitness as he does to his game. He trains under Basu Shankar, the former trainer of the India cricket team. He most recently showcased his talent at the Table Tennis Super League held at Ampa Skywalk Mall on May 4 and 5.

Businesses in MP offer discounts, incentives

BHOPAL : With the voter turnout declining in the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls compared to the 2019 elections, not only the Election Commission of India (ECI) but also various sections of society are working to increase voting in the remaining two phases May 7 and May 13 in Madhya Pradesh. Spanning from business and trading bodies to a prominent commuting app and medical associations, concessions and incentives are being announced across the remaining 17 constituencies to boost polling in the central Indian state. In Bhopal, which goes to polls on Tuesday, many prominent markets have announced discussions and concessions to customers who come for shopping after exercising their franchise. The traders body at New Market one of the oldest markets in the state capital has declared that the market will open after 2 pm on Tuesday to ensure that all the traders and their employees vote with their families. Further, the markets management body has announced discounts and concessions to customers who vote in Tuesdays polls. In MP Nagar, another key commercial area of MP capital, similar announcements have been made, while the Bhopal Sweets and Namkeen Association too have made similar declarations to boost the poll percentage. The Rapido App, a prominent commute app, has announced free rides on priority to voters in the city. The Karond agricultural Mandi in the city has declared a closure on Monday-Tuesday to ensure that farmers can vote without any hassles. Those farmers who vote in the polls will be honoured by the Mandi management later. In Bhind district, which forms part of the Bhind-Datia constituency (also voting on Tuesday), the organizers of an ongoing mega fair have announced mega discounts for customers coming to the fair after voting. The Bhind-Datia seat had reported minimum polling among all the 29 seats of MP in 2014 and 2019 with 45.63% and 54.42% polling, respectively. In Morena district, which too will vote in the third phase on Tuesday, the famous Mungaude (snacks) sellers have announced discounts. In the same district, the local Indian Medical Association (IMA) chapters member doctors have decided free treatment for all those who vote in the festival of democracy on Tuesday. Among the constituencies of western and south-western MP, similar incentives have been announced by trader bodies in many districts.

Tharoor seeks probe into killing of former ATS chief

NEW DELHI: After Maharashtra Congress leader sparked a row with his claims that senior IPS officer Hemant Karkare was killed by an RSS-affiliated cop, not terrorist Ajmal Kasab, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor waded into the issue demanding serious investigation into the claims of his party colleague. The controversy erupted after Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said that terrorists did not kill former ATS chief Hemant Karkare during the Mumbai 26/11 attack, but a police officer linked to the RSS did. However, Wadettiwar later said that he quoted it from the book by former police officer SM Mushrif. Terming the matter as extremely serious, Tharoor said, Our concern is that when the LoP points to something that is an allegation and which is featured in a book by the former IG of police, SM Mushrif, who said that Ajmal Kasab could not have fired the bullets found in Karkares body and that a police revolver could have fired it, it seems to me that this allegation should have been seriously investigated Tharoor told the media persons. Karkare was killed on duty during the Mumbai terror attack in 2008. Ajmal Kasab, who was caught after the attack, was hanged in Pune in 2012. Tharoor also targeted BJP candidate Ujjwal Nikam, who was the public prosecutor in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, for claiming that Kasab was served biryani in jail.

ECI issues Show Cause Notice to Mehbooba for MCC Violation

Srinagar, May 6: The Election Commission has taken cognizance of purported violations of the Model Code of Conduct during a public rally in Thannamandi Shahdara Sharif, prompting a show cause notice to be issued to Mehbooba Mufti, President of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) who is also PDP candidate from the Rajori-Anantnag parliamentary seat, alongside [] The post ECI issues Show Cause Notice to Mehbooba for MCC Violation appeared first on Northlines .

Kerala: Tendering on for Eloor aqua-tourism project; work to begin in two months

KOCHI: Eloor, on the outskirts of Kochi city, is to be developed as an aqua-tourist spot, enabling visitors to enjoy the pristine and serene backwaters along with facilities like a world-class travel lounge. The tendering process for the Rs 98-lakh project is currently under way. We expect infrastructure work to start in two months. Construction will be completed in nine months. Weve already received three tenders, a senior official with the Kerala Tourism regional office said. Our aim is to develop Eloor Ferry, the scenic cape of Eloor Island located to the west of the municipal area, into a popular aqua tourist spot. Its part of National Waterway 3 and linked by NH 66. It will be an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, the official said. The facilities include a cafeteria with an AC waiting room and a modern toilet complex. Maintenance of the existing boat jetty and reconstruction of the damaged retaining walls will also be undertaken. Were renovating the boat jetty, a long pending demand of Eloor residents. The dilapidated wall will be demolished and a new retaining wall will come up in its place, the state tourism official said. An open gym, walkway and fishing point will be set up to facilitate morning and evening walkers. The project is being implemented jointly with Eloor municipality. With Kochi Water Metro starting services linking the region, we expect more tourists to drop by. The municipality has been demanding the development of the area for some time. Landscaping will be part of the alterations. Similarly, parking lots, handrails for protection, benches and hybrid lights will be set up to make the area appealing to visitors, the official said. The fact that none of the neighbouring local bodies have a good tourist centre adds to the importance of this project, said Eloor municipal chairman A D Sujil. The municipality will further develop the hangout by introducing new amenities and carry out maintenance. We expect to attract both domestic and foreign tourists. Even now, around one lakh people visit Eloor Ferry every year, Sujil pointed out.

INSIGHT-How Modi's BJP plans to win a supermajority in India's election

INSIGHT-How Modi's BJP plans to win a supermajority in India's election As India votes in a six-week general election, Narendra Modi's image adorns everything from packs of rice handed out to the poor to large posters in cities and towns. His Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is relying on the prime minister's popularity as it seeks a super-majority in India's parliament. Its message: Modi has delivered economic growth, infrastructure upgrades and India's improved standing in the world. But as the Hindu nationalist party and its allies target 400 of the 543 seats in India's lower house of parliament - up from 352 won in 2019 - they are also employing local tactics in some vital constituencies they hope to wrest from the opposition. Opinion polls indicate Modi will win a rare third term when voting ends on June 1. But only once in Indian history has a party crossed the 400 mark - when the centre-left Congress party romped to victory following the assassination of its leader Indira Gandhi in 1984. To examine how the right-wing National Democratic Alliance (NDA) aims to achieve that feat - and the obstacles it faces - Reuters spoke to nine NDA officials, three opposition leaders and two political analysts, as well as voters in six opposition-held seats the alliance is targeting. They identified three of the BJP's key tactics: enlisting celebrity candidates to unseat veteran opposition lawmakers; making an assault on the opposition's southern strongholds by appealing to minorities such as Christians; and exploiting redrawn political boundaries that bolster the Hindu electorate in some opposition-controlled areas in the north. A combination of strategies, organisational commitment and tactical flexibility will help make inroads in seats never held by the party ever before, BJP President J. P. Nadda, who oversees the party's election strategy, told Reuters in April. Some critics have warned the BJP would use a large majority to push through a more radical agenda in a third term. While the BJP's manifesto focuses heavily on economic growth, it has also pledged to scrap separate legal codes for religious and tribal groups in areas such as marriage and inheritance. Many Muslims and tribal groups oppose the plan, which would require a constitutional amendment to be passed by at least two-thirds of parliament. Modi wants a landslide majority only to be able to end the debate and deliberation on any policy matter in the parliament, Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge told Reuters. Following low turnout in early voting, some BJP campaign officials have in recent days appeared less confident of securing a huge majority, though the party still expects to form the next government. SOUTHERN STRATEGY Modi's party has criticised the dynastic politics that it says afflicts Congress, long dominated by the Nehru-Gandhi family. But in Pathanamthitta, a seat in the southern state of Kerala, it is fielding a political scion in Anil Antony - son of a veteran Congress leader. The constituency, home to a sizeable Christian minority, has been held by Congress since its creation in 2009. Anil's father, former defense minister A.K. Antony, supports the incumbent and has denounced his son, a fellow Christian, for representing the Hindu nationalist party. But Anil has another supporter: Modi, who came to Pathanamthitta in March and praised the BJP candidate for his fresh vision and leadership. The prime minister has visited the five states of southern India at least 16 times since December. Nadda, the BJP president, acknowledged that winning a supermajority would require performing well in the five southern states, which are home to about 20% of India's population but have not traditionally voted for his party. In 2019, the NDA won just 31 of 130 seats across Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, all of which are linguistically diverse and have many Muslim and Christian voters. Jiji Joseph, general secretary of the BJP's minority wing in Kerala, said the party has made a concerted push for the 18% of voters there who are Christians. The BJP did not win a single seat in Kerala at the last general election. The BJP launched active contact with the Church and we started interacting with clergies directly, he said, adding that the party now has 11,000 active Christian members. There is a change. Christians now want to believe that BJP stands for them. In April, Anil became the first BJP candidate in Kerala to be endorsed by Christian leaders. He told Reuters his selection indicated the party offered opportunities to members from minority groups. He declined to comment on relations with his father. Jayant Joseph, a Keralan Christian voter, said he backed the BJP because he had read media reports about Muslim men marrying Christian women and converting them to Islam. Most moderate Hindus consider allegations of large-scale forced conversions to be a conspiracy theory. Kerala is a secular state, he said. But for it to continue to be a secular state, the Muslim population and their conversion strategy must be kept under check. A Modi political aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to media, said the NDA expects to win about 50 seats in the south. K. Anil Kumar, a senior leader of Kerala's ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist), said he did not believe BJP would do well in his state, which he said has a strong tradition of secularism. The BJP might try to side with the Christians on some issues but they are fundamentally a party of the Hindus and for the Hindus, he said. STAR CANDIDATES In the Mandi constituency of the northern state of Himachal Pradhesh, the BJP has recruited Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut to break the Congress party's grip on power. Congress is fielding as its candidate Vikramaditya Singh, whose mother currently represents the constituency. His father was the state's long-time chief minister. Ranaut, a political novice who calls herself a glorious right-wing personality, has starred in popular movies with nationalistic themes. She is known for her criticism of Bollywood executives who she said favoured the relatives of famous actors for opportunities. The actress is one of five actors running for the BJP this year, up from four in 2019. No opinion polling on the Mandi race is publicly available. Anjana Negia, an elementary school teacher who plans to vote for Ranaut, acknowledged that her preferred candidate had no political experience. But she said that she valued a new face and that a Modi-backed candidate would help ring a fresh wave of development. Fielding celebrities and seeking the endorsement of entertainment personalities is relatively new for the BJP, which long resisted such tactics because of its cadre-based nature that prized grassroots efforts, said Milan Vaishnav, an expert on South Asian politics at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace think-tank. Ranaut declined an interview request. Federal BJP spokesman Shahzad Poonawala said she has been successful in exposing dynastic culture and nepotism in Bollywood and now she is doing the same in politics. Singh, a state minister responsible for urban development, told Reuters that his family's experiences gave him a better understanding of politics. Charges of nepotism were shallow, he said. REDISTRICTING BENEFITS The NDA is hoping for gains in the northeastern state of Assam, where it won nine of 14 seats in 2019. Assam's BJP chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, said in March he was confident of winning 13 seats. The NDA's confidence is rooted in a 2023 redistricting exercise in the state. India's non-partisan Election Commission routinely redraws seat boundaries to reflect population changes; it is tasked with ensuring that no political party gains undue advantage from the changes. But exercises since the last federal election in Assam and far-northern Jammu and Kashmir, India's only majority Muslim region, diluted the Muslim vote in seats that the NDA is targeting, according to three BJP and four opposition officials. The Election Commission declined to comment on the two exercises, citing the ongoing election. In Assam, the NDA has high hopes for Congress-held Barpeta, which alliance candidate Phani Bhushan Choudhury said newly includes dozens of villages and some towns with large Hindu populations. Earlier (Barpeta) had a Muslim majority but now it is a Hindu majority, said Choudhury. That change has worked in my favour. He estimates that there are now 1.2 million Hindu voters in Barpeta, where he is campaigning on development and protecting the rights of what the NDA calls indigenous Assamese voters, who are mostly Hindu. Choudhury's Congress opponent Deep Bayan said the percentage of Hindus in Barpeta went from 30% to 70%. Instead focusing on real issues affecting the people...(the BJP does) the politics of polarisation, he said. Three of Jammu and Kashmir's five seats are majority Muslim and held by the opposition. But the NDA hopes to swing one of them, Anantnag-Rajouri, after its voter rolls swelled by more than 50% to over 2 million, according to government data. Many of the new voters are Hindus or from regional tribes - which benefited from new BJP policies awarding them education and employment privileges - according to regional BJP chief Ravinder Raina. Raina said the BJP would support an NDA partner that it believed could win Anantnag-Rajouri and focus on retaining the two Hindu-majority seats it holds. The two redistricting exercises presages a broader remapping of constituencies due after the election. Vaishnav, of the Carnegie Endowment, said the remapping would distribute seats to the BJP-dominated north, which has much higher population growth rates, to the detriment of wealthier south India. (Additional reporting by Jose Joseph in Kerala; Editing by Katerina Ang)

Murder or suicide? 30 under lens over Tirunelveli East Congress chief Jeyakumar death

TIRUNELVELI: As mystery shrouds the death of Tirunelveli East District Congress president KPK Jeyakumar Dhanasingh, police sources said that an investigation is on to ascertain if the death was by suicide or murder. Police have issued summons to nearly 30 people, particularly those named in Jeyakumars purported death declaration. Jeyakumars charred body was recovered from his farm near his house on Saturday, two days after he went missing. His son, J Karuthaiah Jafrin, had complained to the Uvari police, demanding to trace his missing father on Friday. During the recovery of Jeyakumars body from the farm, police personnel and villagers noticed that Jeyakumars hands and legs were loosely tied with power cables. This suggests that he may have been killed by someone. However, no major injuries were noticed on his body. It is odd that no one, including family members and Karaisuthuputhur villagers, noticed the incident which took place a few hundred metres away from his residence. We cannot rule out the suicide angle as there are signs that he ended his life. His death is being investigated from both angles, police sources said. Some of the persons summoned by the police have given their statements, while a few have switched off their mobile phones. On Monday, a police team visited former union minister Dhanushkodi Athithans house and conducted an inquiry for nearly two hours. Meanwhile, former TNCC president KS Alagiri consoled Jeyakumars family. Jeyakumars case is a challenge to the police department, and I hope that the police will find out the reason behind his death at the earliest, Alagiri told media persons. The police also issued summons to Nanguneri Congress MLA Ruby Manoharan. Sources said that some members of Jeyakumars family have called for a DNA test to verify whether the charred body is indeed that of Jeyakumar. Jeyakumar laid to rest; TNCC calls for fair probe

Jordan's King Abdullah presses Biden to avert Israel offensive in Rafah

Jordan's King Abdullah presses Biden to avert Israel offensive in Rafah Jordan's King Abdullah told U.S. President Joe Biden in a private meeting on Monday that an Israeli offensive in Rafah would lead to a ew massacre of Palestinian civilians and urged the international community to take urgent action. The king warned of the repercussions of the Israeli ground offensive on Rafah, which could cause a regional spillover of the conflict, a statement from the Jordan royal court said after Abdullah had lunch with Biden at the White House. Israel carried out airstrikes in Rafah on Monday and told Palestinians to evacuate parts of the city where more than a million people uprooted by the seven-month war are crowded together. On Sunday, Hamas reiterated its demand for an end to the war in exchange for the freeing of hostages, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly ruled that out. Hamas also attacked the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza, which Israel said killed three of its soldiers. In a phone call on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjmain Netanyahu, Biden pressed Netanyahu not to go ahead with a large-scale Israeli military offensive in Rafah. The U.S. president has been vocal in his demand that Israel not undertake a ground offensive in Rafah without a plan to protect Palestinian civilians. The Jordanian statement said Abdullah in his meeting with Biden warned that the Israeli attack on Rafah, where 1.4 million Palestinians are internally displaced as a result of the war on Gaza, threatens to lead to a new massacre. His Majesty stressed the importance of all efforts that seek an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, it said. The king and the U.S. president affirmed their commitment to working to reach a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, stressing the importance of facilitating the delivery of sustainable humanitarian aid to the Strip in light of the dire needs. The Biden administration and Israeli officials remain at odds over Israel's planned military incursion in the southern Gaza city of Rafah where it told Palestinians to start evacuating some parts on Monday. Biden last met King Abdullah at the White House in February and the two longtime allies discussed a daunting list of challenges, including the looming Israeli ground offensive in southern Gaza and suffering of Palestinian civilians. Jordan and other Arab states have been highly critical of Israel's actions and have been demanding a ceasefire since mid-October as civilian casualties began to skyrocket. The war began after Hamas stunned Israel with a cross-border raid on Oct. 7 in which 1,200 people were killed and 252 hostages taken, according to Israeli tallies. More than 34,600 Palestinians have been killed and more than 77,000 wounded in Israel's assault, according to Gaza's health ministry.

Cannot Leave Industry As Films Are Pending: BJP Candidate Kangana Ranaut

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Mandi Lok Sabha constituency Kangana Ranaut, who is currently busy in her election campaign said that she is not going to leave the film industry.

Heeramandi Co-director Snehil Dixit Mehra on Vivek Agnihotri's Criticism: 'He Should Watch It First' | Exclusive

Snehil Dixit Mehra aka BC Aunty slams Vivek Agnihotri's claim that Heeramandi glorifies courtesans. She reiterates that the series has only adhered to facts.

Vivek Agnihotri on 'Heeramandi': Brothels are monuments of human injustice, pain, suffering

Heeramandi Actor Shruti Sharma Reacts to Sharmin Segal Being Trolled: 'I'm Very Concerned for Her'

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis debut series Heeramandi has once again sparked a debate about nepotism, courtesy of his niece Sharmin Segals casting in the Netflix series.

'He breaks you': Hardik lauds Surya after win over SRH

Suryakumar Yadav's scintillating century, scoring 102 runs off just 51 deliveries, laid the foundation for Mumbai's commanding win, achieved in 17.2 overs. SRH posted a total of 173 for eight, propelled by opener Travis Head's quickfire 48 off 30 balls and a spirited unbeaten knock of 35 runs from Pat Cummins. Skipper Hardik Pandya and Piyush Chawla shone with the ball for MI, claiming three wickets each to restrict SRH and pave the way for their team's triumph.

Exploring the real Heeramandi beyond Bhansali's

The recent release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's web series Heeramandi has sparked discussions about the portrayal of the historic courtesan district and its divergence from reality.

AAP Alleges Conspiracy Led by BJP After LG Recommends NIA Investigation on Kejriwal

AAP Alleges Conspiracy Led by BJP After LG Recommends NIA Investigation on Kejriwal Lt Governor V K Saxena's recommendation of an NIA probe against Arvind Kejriwal is yet ''another conspiracy'' against the Delhi chief minister at the behest of the BJP, the AAP alleged on Monday and called the LG ''an agent'' of the saffron party. The LG has recommended the probe against Kejriwal for allegedly receiving political funding from the banned terrorist organisation 'Sikhs for Justice', Raj Niwas sources said. ''LG sir is an agent of the BJP. This is yet another conspiracy against Kejriwal at the behest of BJP. They are losing on all seven seats in Delhi and are rattled by the fear of defeat in Lok Sabha polls,'' said AAP leader and Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj. He alleged that even before the Punjab Assembly elections in 2022, the BJP had hatched this conspiracy. In a post on X, Bharadwaj said, ''LG saab desperately trying to make headlines during Election season. This is complete misuse of constitutional office of LG. The PIL demanding high level investigation in same matter was dismissed by HC two years back. The Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Navin Chawla rejected the plea filed by one Jagdish Sharma, stating that it is 'completely frivolous'.'' In a letter to the Union home secretary, the principal secretary to Saxena said the LG had received a complaint that the Kejriwal-led AAP allegedly received USD 16 million funding from extremist Khalistani groups for facilitating the release of Devendra Pal Bhullar. Bhullar, who is in Amritsar Central Jail, was convicted in connection with the killing of nine people in a bomb blast in 1993 in Delhi. He was sentenced to death by a designated TADA court on August 25, 2001 and is undergoing life imprisonment after the Supreme Court commuted his death sentence. Later, in a statement, Bharadwaj said the BJP made exactly the same allegations before the Punjab Assembly elections in 2022. At that time, Union Home Minister Amit Shah ordered an investigation too but nothing was found. ''Now once again the same allegation has been made by Ashoo Mongia, a BJP leader and General Secretary of an organization of which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's brother is the President. By making these trite allegations, it is clear that the BJP is losing all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi,'' he charged. The people of Delhi will respond to such ''cheap tactics'' by defeating the BJP which insulted CM Arvind Kejriwal, who has provided good education, health, free electricity and water, he added. Bharadwaj accused the LG of ''continuously'' adopting ''cheap tactics'' to tarnish the image of Kejriwal at the behest of the BJP. ''And this is taking place just before the voting for all seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi on May 25. At the behest of the BJP, a conspiracy has been hatched by the LG to recommend NIA investigation against Kejriwal,'' he alleged. Whenever the BJP sees an electoral defeat coming, it resorts to making such allegations so that it can mislead the public, he claimed. ''...This time also nothing will come out in the investigation and the public will not be misled by them (BJP),'' added the senior AAP leader. In a post on X, he wrote: LG saab has earlier asked for CBI investigation into complaint by person like Sukesh Chandrashekhar who is in jail for duping and cheating people of crores of rupees through his deception & manipulation. Sukesh had extorted 200 cr+ from a corporate house in the name of office of HM Amit Shah. What more can be expected from LG saab. Meanwhile, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva welcomed the LG's recommendation. ''All through his political career as well as when he operated an NGO, it has been seen that Arvind Kejriwal has always had a soft corner for separatist causes,'' he charged.

BJPs Mandi candidate visionless: Congress Vikramaditya Singh takes jibe at Kangana Ranaut

The News Mill

Richa Chadha reacts to netizen calling Heeramandi 'bakwas movie': 'Where did you buy...'

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's OTT debut Heeramandi has been receiving mixed reviews from the audiences and critics.

Hamas says it agreed to a Gaza cease-fire deal, no comment yet from Israel

The Hamas militant group says it has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire proposal to halt the seven-month war with Israel. It issued a statement Monday saying its supreme leader, Ismail Haniyeh, had delivered the news in a phone call with Qatar's prime minister and Egypt's intelligence minister. There was no immediate comment from Israel. The announcement came hours after Israel's military said it ordered some 100,000 people to evacuate the southern Gaza city of Rafah, signaling that a long-promised ground invasion could be imminent. Israel says Rafah is Hamas' last stronghold. Over a million people in Rafah are huddled in tents and overcrowded apartments after fleeing Israel's military offensive in other parts of the territory. The Israel-Hamas war has driven around 80% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million from their homes and caused vast destruction throughout several cities. The death toll in Gaza has soared to more than 34,500 people, according to local health officials. The war began Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked southern Israel, abducting about 250 people and killing around 1,200, mostly civilians. Israel says militants still hold around 100 hostages and the remains of more than 30 others. Currently: Israeli army tells Palestinians to evacuate parts of Rafah ahead of an expected assault Hamas says latest cease-fire talks have ended. Israel vows military operation in 'very near future' Israel orders Al Jazeera to close its local operation and seizes some of its equipment Netanyahu uses Holocaust ceremony to brush off international pressure against Gaza offensive Anti-war protesters leave USC after police arrive, while Northeastern ceremony proceeds calmly Israeli strike kills 4 civilians in southern Lebanon, state media says Follow AP's coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war Here's the latest: HAMAS SAYS IT HAS ACCEPTED A CEASE-FIRE DEAL The Hamas militant group says it has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire proposal to halt the seven-month war with Israel. It issued a statement Monday saying its supreme leader, Ismail Haniyeh, had delivered the news in a phone call with Qatar's prime minister and Egypt's intelligence minister. The two Middle Eastern nations have been mediating months of talks between Israel and Hamas. There was no immediate comment from Israel. The announcement came hours after Israel ordered Palestinians to begin evacuating the southern Gaza town of Rafah ahead of an Israeli military operation. Israel says Rafah is Hamas' last stronghold. News of Hamas' announcement sent people in Rafah cheering in the streets. People rushed into the streets in front of Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip, chanting and cheering the news. Details of the proposal were not immediately released. But in recent days, Egyptian and Hamas officials have said the cease-fire would take place in a series of stages in which Hamas would release hostages it is holding in exchange for Israeli troop pullbacks from Gaza. It is not clear whether the deal will meet Hamas' key demand of bringing about an end to the war and complete Israeli withdrawal. ISRAEL'S BLOCKAGE OF AL JAZEERA NEWS WEBSITE TAKES EFFECT JERUSALEM -- Israel's blockage of Al Jazeera's news website appeared to take effect Monday, a day after Israel shut the local offices of the Qatari network and halted its broadcasts in Israel. The network's website was no longer accessible on local Wi-Fi networks in Israel as of Monday afternoon, although it could still be viewed using virtual private networks, or VPNs. Access to the network's YouTube livestream and social media feeds appeared undisturbed. Al Jazeera went off Israel's main cable and satellite providers Sunday. Believed to be the first time Israel has closed a foreign news outlet operating in the country, the shuttering of Al-Jazeera's operation marks the culmination of a long-running feud that has only been exacerbated by the network's coverage of the current Israel-Hamas war. Since Hamas militants' initial cross-border attack Oct. 7, the network has maintained 24-hour coverage of Israel's grinding ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. While including on-the-ground reporting of the war's casualties, including the deaths of members of its own staff, its Arabic arm often publishes verbatim video statements from Hamas and other regional militant groups. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that it had become necessary to remove the network, calling it a Hamas mouthpiece. The Foreign Press Association in Israel criticized the order. With this decision, Israel joins a dubious club of authoritarian governments to ban the station, it said. This is a dark day for the media. The New York-based Committee to Project Journalists similarly warned the move represented an extremely alarming precedent for restricting international media outlets working in Israel. 600,000 KIDS IN RAFAH ARE AT 'CATASTROPHIC' RISK FROM ISRAELI INVASION, U.N. CHILDREN'S AGENCY WARNS JERUSALEM: The U.N. children's agency says an Israeli ground operation in Rafah would pose catastrophic risks to children sheltering in the southern Gaza city. UNICEF estimates some 600,000 children are in Rafah roughly half the city's population. Most of those people are huddling in tents and overcrowded apartments after fleeing Israel's military offensive in other parts of the territory. In a statement Monday, UNICEF warned that many of the children are highly vulnerable. It said an estimated 65,000 children suffer from a pre-existing disability and an estimated 175,000 children under the age of 5 suffer from one or more infectious diseases. Almost all children, it said require mental health services. More than 200 days of war have taken an unimaginable toll on the lives of children, said Catherine Russell, UNICEF's executive director. Rafah is now a city of children, who have nowhere safe to go in Gaza. If large scale military operations start, not only will children be at risk from the violence, but also from chaos and panic, and at a time where their physical and mental states are already weakened. UNICEF called for a lasting cease-fire and release of hostages held by Hamas. BIDEN AND NETANYAHU SPEAK BY PHONE AS ISRAEL APPEARS CLOSE TO INVADING RAFAH WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke Monday morning, a White House official said, as Israel appeared closer to launching an offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah a move staunchly opposed by the U.S. on humanitarian grounds. A National Security Council spokesperson said Biden reiterated U.S. concerns about an invasion of Rafah said he believes reaching a ceasefire with Hamas is the best way to protect the lives of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The two officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the call before an official White House statement was released. The Biden administration, which provides Israel crucial military and diplomatic support, says it opposes a Rafah invasion unless Israel provides a credible plan for protecting civilians there. The United Nations humanitarian aid agency has warned that hundreds of thousands of people would be at imminent risk of death if Israel carries out a military assault into Rafah. The city on the border with Egypt is a critical entry point for humanitarian aid and is filled with displaced Palestinians, many in densely packed tent camps. EGYPT URGES ISRAEL TO EXERCISE MAXIMUM RESTRAINT CAIRO: Egypt has urged Israel to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation at this extremely sensitive time in the process of cease-fire negotiations. In a statement Monday, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry warned against Israel's imminent offensive in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah. It says such an escalation will cause grave humanitarian risks to over a million Palestinians packed in the city. The statement said Egypt continues to communicate with all parties to prevent the situation from getting worse or getting out of control. Egypt has been a key mediator in ongoing efforts to broker a cease-fire that would halt Israel's offensive in Gaza in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. GERMANY, FRANCE REITERATE OPPOSITION TO ISRAEL'S RAFAH OFFENSIVE BERLIN: Germany and France have reiterated their opposition to Israel's planned offensive on Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip. A spokesperson for the German Foreign Office said Monday that more than 1 million people are currently living in the area, adding that hese people need protection ... and the German government and the foreign minister have already said repeatedly in the past that a large-scale ground offensive on Rafah would be a humanitarian disaster.\ At the same time, the spokesperson, Kathrin Deschauer, condemned the continued attacks by Hamas on Israel from the Gaza Strip, and called for the release of over 100 people who are still held hostage by Hamas, who need to be freed. All sides must now make maximum efforts, she said, so that Palestinians in Gaza can be supplied with humanitarian goods and the hostages can be freed at the same time. In Paris, the Foreign Ministry reiterated France's firm opposition to Israel's offensive in Rafah, saying more than 1.3 million people are in grave situation after seeking shelter there. France warned that displacing civilian population by force constitutes a war crime under international law. The Foreign Ministry reiterated its position on the Israel-Hamas war, demanding an immediate release of Israeli hostages and a sustained cease-fire in Gaza to protect civilians. On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and urged him to follow through with the negotiations that could ''lead to the release of hostages, the protection of civilians by a cease-fire and regional de-escalation,'' according to Macron's office. 'The destiny of the Palestinians of Gaza can no longer be subject to the terrorist actions of Hamas, and the Israeli operations should stop,'' Macron said, and reiterated his ''firmest opposition'' to an Israeli offensive in Rafah. HAMAS WARNS ISRAEL THAT A RAFAH INVASION WON'T BE A 'PICNIC' BEIRUT: The militant Palestinian group Hamas warned Israel on Monday that any military operation in the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip will not be a picnic. Hamas said in statement that Palestinian militant groups, led by Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, are ready to defend our people and defeat the enemy. The statement was the first official comment since the Israeli army ordered tens of thousands of Palestinians in Rafah to start evacuating, signaling that a long-promised ground invasion could be imminent. Hamas called on the international community to move quickly o stop the crime that is threatening the lives of hundreds of thousands of civilians. It also called on international agencies including the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees to stay in Rafah and support the people there. GAZA HEALTH MINISTRY REPORTS 52 DEAD IN THE LAST 24 HOURS BEIRUT: The Gaza Health Ministry said Monday the bodies of 52 people killed by Israeli strikes have been brought to local hospitals over the past 24 hours. Hospitals also received 90 wounded, it said in its daily report. That brings the overall Palestinian death toll from the Israel-Hamas war to at least 34,735 the ministry said, and 78,108 wounded. The Health Ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians in its tallies, but says that women and children make up around two-thirds of those killed. The Israeli military says it has killed 13,000 militants, without providing evidence to back up the claim. DUTCH MINISTER CALLS FOR A DIPLOMATIC SOLUTION TO END CLASHES ALONG LEBANON-ISRAEL BORDER BEIRUT: Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot on Monday called for an urgent diplomatic solution to end intensifying clashes between the Lebanese Hezbollah militant group and the Israeli military along the tense Lebanon-Israel border. The Netherlands has grave concerns about rising tensions in the border region and intensified fighting, and we regret the loss of innocent civilian lives, Bruins Slot said following a meeting with her Lebanese counterpart, caretaker Foreign Minister Fouad Bou Habib in Beirut. And this has implications for Lebanon and the wider region. Israel, which sees Hezbollah as its most direct threat, has not ruled out a war in southern Lebanon. It estimates that the Iran-backed Shiite group has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at the country. Hezbollah and Israel fought a monthlong war in 2006 that ended in a tense stalemate. Western diplomats have scrambled to halt the hostilities. Hezbollah, and ally of the militant Palestinian group Hamas, has maintained that it would stop its attacks on northern Israel when the Hamas-Israel war ends. RAFAH INVASION COULD BE THE DEADLIEST IN THE CONFLICT, NORWEGIAN REFUGEE COUNCIL SAYS JERUSALEM: The Norwegian Refugee Council has condemned the Israeli army's forced, unlawful evacuation order in Rafah, saying that it could lead to he deadliest phase of this conflict. Jan Egeland, secretary-general of the international nonprofit organization, says there are not enough resources in Israel's self-declared Muwasi humanitarian zone, where the army instructed some 100,000 people in Rafah to relocate on Monday. The area is already overstretched and devoid of vital services, Egeland said. He says his organization and other international humanitarian groups are struggling to provide essential support for Palestinians in Gaza. More than half of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are currently located in Rafah, while Israel's government has vowed to press on with a military operation in Gaza's southernmost city. FOURTH ISRAELI SOLDIER DIES OF WOUNDS IN A HAMAS ROCKET ATTACK JERUSALEM: The Israeli army says a fourth soldier has died from wounds sustained in a Hamas rocket attack on the border with Gaza. Hamas launched at least 10 rockets toward soldiers positioned on the border Sunday, killing three other soldiers. The attack occurred near Kerem Shalom, a major crossing point for international aid being delivered to Gaza, and came as Israel is preparing a possible invasion into the nearby Palestinian city of Rafah. Israel has shuttered Kerem Shalom indefinitely, and on Monday, it began ordering civilians to evacuate parts of eastern Rafah, near the border, ahead of an expected military operation. UNRWA SAYS IT WON'T COMPLY WITH AN ISRAELI EVACUATION ORDER FOR RAFAH RAFAH: The United Nations agency serving Palestinian refugees says it will not comply with an Israeli military order to evacuate parts of the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Juliette Touma, communications director for UNRWA, says the agency has not evacuated the area and has no plans to do so. She says it has thousands of employees in the city. UNRWA will not take part in any forced evacuation of the population in Rafah or elsewhere in Gaza, she said. We are committed to staying and delivering humanitarian assistance. She called for a cease-fire. Relations between Israel and UNRWA have long been strained and further deteriorated during the seven-month war. Israel has accused UNRWA of collaborating with the Hamas militant group and called for the agency's closure. UNRWA, the largest international provider of aid and services in Gaza, denies the accusations. GERMANY CRITICIZES ISRAEL'S SHUTDOWN OF AL JAZEERA BERLIN: Germany's Foreign Office on Monday condemned the shutdown of Qatar's Al Jazeera satellite news network in Israel. The Foreign Office wrote on X that a free and diverse press landscape is the cornerstone of every liberal democracy. In times of conflict especially, it is of crucial importance to protect the freedom of the press. The decision of the Israeli authorities to shut down Al Jazeera in Israel is the wrong signal, the ministry said. Germany has for decades been a staunch supporter of Israel. Berlin, however, has gradually shifted its tone as civilian casualties in Gaza have soared, becoming increasingly critical of the humanitarian situation in Gaza and speaking out against a ground offensive in Rafah. ISRAELI ARMY TELLS PALESTINIANS TO EVACUATE PARTS OF RAFAH JERUSALEM: The Israeli army has ordered tens of thousands of people in the southern Gaza city of Rafah to begin evacuating, signaling that a long-promised ground invasion could be imminent. The announcement on Monday complicated last-ditch efforts by international mediators, including the director of the CIA, to broker a cease-fire. Hamas and Qatar, a key mediator, have warned that an invasion of Rafah could derail the talks. Israel has described Rafah as the last significant Hamas stronghold after seven months of war, and its leaders have repeatedly said they need to carry out a ground invasion to defeat the Islamic militant group. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, an army spokesman, said some 100,000 people were being ordered to move to a nearby Israel-declared humanitarian zone called Muwasi. He said Israel was preparing a limited scope operation and would not say whether this was the beginning of a broader invasion of the city. But last October, Israel did not formally announce the launch of a ground invasion that continues to this day. ISRAELI AIRSTRIKE IN LEBANON INJURES 3 PEOPLE, BEIRUT SAYS BEIRUT: An Israeli airstrike on northeastern Lebanon wounded three people and destroyed a building, Lebanon's state-run National News Agency says. The strike on the village of Safri early Monday targeted a factory in the eastern Bekaa Valley, the agency said without giving further details. The Israeli military said its fighter jets struck a Hezbollah military structure in Safri. Monday's strike came after a tense day along the Lebanon-Israel border during which an Israeli airstrike on a village near the border killed four Lebanese civilians. The militant Hezbollah group said it fired dozens of rockets in retaliation toward northern Israel. The Lebanon-Israel border has seen almost daily exchange of fire since a day after the Israel-Hamas war started on Oct. 7. Israeli strikes have killed more than 350 people in Lebanon, most of them fighters with Hezbollah and allied groups but also including more than 50 civilians. In Israel, strikes from Lebanon have killed at least 10 civilians and 12 soldiers.

Dhaka: Bangladeshi students rally against Israel demanding end to Gaza war

Dhaka: Bangladeshi students rally against Israel demanding end to Gaza war

BNP to hold rallies in capital Friday, Saturday

BNP is set to hold rallies on Friday and Saturday in front of its Nayapaltan central office in the capital, demanding the release of its jailed leaders

Biden presses Netanyahu against Rafah invasion in Gaza

Biden presses Netanyahu against Rafah invasion in Gaza U.S. President Joe Biden pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to go ahead with a large-scale Israeli military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah on Monday, hours after Israel told Palestinians to evacuate parts of the area. The White House said Biden reiterated his clear position on Rafah, which has been that Israel should not proceed with an invasion plan unless it shows how to protect hundreds of thousands of Palestinian civilians there. The Israeli evacuation order comes after talks in Cairo aimed at reaching a ceasefire in exchange for releasing hostages deal stalled with Hamas demanding an end to the war after Israel proposed a ceasefire of several weeks. The evacuation order sparked fears of a full-blown assault in Rafah, long threatened by Israel, against holdouts of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, seven months after Hamas killed 1,200 people in southern Israel on Oct. 7 and took 252 hostages, according to Israeli authorities. Israel's massive retaliation in response has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, health officials in the Hamas-ruled enclave say, and reduced much of Gaza to rubble. President Biden updated the prime minister on efforts to secure a hostage deal, including through ongoing talks today in Doha, Qatar. The Prime Minister agreed to ensure the Kerem Shalom crossing is open for humanitarian assistance for those in need, the White House said. The Kerem Shalom crossing is located in southern Gaza near Rafah.

Shruti comes out in support of Sharmin Segal

Following criticism from online users regarding her performance in Heeramandi, Sharmin Segal has deactivated her social media comments.

ECI issues Show Cause Notice to Mehbooba Mufti for alleged MCC Violation

The Election Commission has taken cognizance of purported violations of the Model Code of Conduct during a public rally in Thannamandi Shahdara Sharif, prompting a show cause notice to be issued to Mehbooba Mufti, President of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who is also PDP candidate from the Rajori-Anantnag parliamentary seat, alongside PDP Assembly Incharge []

BJP and Congress Lock Horns in Crucial Polls Northern Karnataka

MANGALURU: May 7th marks a crucial electoral showdown in the Northern Karnataka region, with 14 constituencies, including Kalyana-Karnataka and Kittur Karnataka, heading to the polls. The electoral arena is set for a fierce contest between the Congress and BJP, both vying to secure significant seats and bolster their respective standings at the Center. Amidst this electoral fervor, several constituencies are poised for particularly intriguing battles. The BJP is primarily focusing on the image of Modi and showcasing developmental initiatives, including the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, in its bid to secure votes. Meanwhile, the Congress party is relying on its guarantee schemes and leveraging the anti-incumbency sentiment as key strategies for electoral success. The 14 constituencies slated for elections tomorrow encompass Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Shivamogga, and Davangere. In the 2019 election, BJP had won all these seats. This electoral spectacle features a noteworthy lineup of candidates, including two Union Ministers, two former Chief Ministers, and the children of three Karnataka Cabinet Ministers, alongside the son-in-law of the AICC president. The districts have witnessed a flurry of political activity, with both state and central leaders canvassing extensively for their candidates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with leaders like Amit Shah, JP Nadda, and Vijayendra, has spearheaded vigorous campaigns, while Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge have mobilized their forces with equal fervor. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM and KPCC president DK Shivakumar have strategically shifted focus to the North Karnataka region post the conclusion of elections in South and Coastal Karnataka on April 26. Of particular interest is the Gulbarga constituency in the Kalyana Karnataka region, where sitting MP Dr. Umesh Jadhav locks horns with Congress candidate Radhakrishna. Radhakrishna, who is the son-in-law of AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, is at the heart of a political battleground. With the BJP determined to unseat the Congress candidate on the home turf of the AICC president, the Congress has launched an extensive campaign to reclaim its stronghold. Mallikarjun Kharge himself has undertaken numerous tours across Kalyana Karnataka, leaving no stone unturned in his efforts to bolster his party's influence in the region. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi is fighting against Congress candidate Vinod Asooti in Dharwad. Lingayat seer Dingaleshwar Swamiji's vocal opposition to Joshi's candidacy further underscores the intricacies of local dynamics, leaving people curious about the seer's followers' voting patterns. In Bidar, Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Bhagwanth Khuba, seeks reelection against Congress' youthful contender Sagar Khandre, son of Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre, amplifying the clash of political legacies. Similarly, in Chikkodi, Priyankar Satish Jarkiholi, daughter of PWD Belagavi district witnesses familial and political confrontations, with PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi's daughter Priyankar Satish Jarkiholi stepping into the electoral arena for the first time against BJP's sitting MP Annasaheb Jolle in Chikkodi. Former CM and BJP leader Jagadish Shettar squares off against Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkars son Mrinal Hebbalkar in Belgaum. Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai's bid for an MP seat from Haveri faces a challenge from Congress' Anandswamy Gaddadevaramath, while Samyukta Patil, daughter of Agriculture Marketing Minister Shivanand Patil, confronts BJP's PC Gaddigaudar who has been winning the seat for BJP since 2004. JD(S), which is in alliance with BJP in Karnataka, is not contesting in any of the 14 constituencies where the election is scheduled on Tuesday. However, JD(S) state president and former CM HD Kumaraswamy, along with his leaders, has been campaigning for the BJP candidates in the North Karnataka region.

'Heeramandi' star castand their ethnic looks

The star-studded cast of 'Heeramandi' is set to mesmerize audiences with their diverse ethnic looks, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of India.

Agniveer pre-recruitment screening camp held in Assam's Sonitpur

Agniveer pre-recruitment screening camp held in Assam's Sonitpur An Agniveer pre-recruitment screening camp for an eligibility check of Adivasi and Tea Garden Community youths was conducted at Rangapara Army Cantt in Sonitpur district on Sunday. The initiative was organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Aadhunik India Foundation. The special screening camp aimed to train and empower the Adavasi and youth aspirants of the Tea Garden community of Sonitpur district and nearby district of Assam for physical, medical, and written tests in the Armed forces as Agniveers. Nearly 1200 youths, including girls from different Tea Gardens under the district of Sonitpur and nearby districts, participated in the Agniveer awareness programme. The youths were briefed about filling in forms, preliminary pre-enrolment screening as per physical standards and ground tests, thereby creating a festive and enthusiastic atmosphere among the participants and motivating the aspirants in their preparation and transforming from raw youth to soldiers. The commanding officer of the Rangapara Army Cantt of the Indian Army motivated the youth of the Tea Garden and the Adivasi Community as well. The training team briefed and addressed the aspirants on the Agniveer recruitment procedure including Academics, physical and medical standards, CEE syllabus and physical exam. On this occasion, the National President of Aadhunik India Foundation, DK Chauhan also encouraged all the Adivasi and Tea Garden Community youths to join the Indian Army. (ANI)

Amit Shah takes jibe at Congress, says BJP not afraid of Muslim vote bank

Amit Shah refers to how the Congress and its alliance partners intentionally skipped the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to keep their vote bank happy

Hospital Staff Protest After Attack on Medical Personnel in Korutla

Hyderabad: Korutla Government Hospital staff suspended services and held a protest wearing black badges on Monday, demanding urgent action against those who had attacked medical personnel on Sunday night. Najeebur Rahman, a 44-year-old autorickshaw driver from Hajipur, suffered a severe health episode due to extreme heat and was rushed to the hospital where he was declared dead. Rahman's family and friends assaulting Dr Sravan P. and some medical staff and vandalised hospital property. The staff filed a complaint with the local police. Dr Sravan is recovering from his injuries. A delegation from the Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA) Karimnagar unit visited the hospital to express solidarity and meet Dr Sravan. A spokesperson from the organisation condemned the lack of swift police response. It is unacceptable that the perpetrators of such a heinous crime are still at large, an HRDA memeber told Deccan Chronicle. We demand immediate arrests and swift justice for Dr Sravan and healthcare workers who were subjected to violence, he added. Metpalli DSP Uma Maheswara Rao and Korutla circle inspector Suresh Babu spoke with the agitators and assured them of action. However, no first information report (FIR) was filed immediately, which provoked outrage among the medical community, the HRDA memeber said. Doctors' organsations have announced a 'Chalo Korutla' march on May 8 to to pressure the authorities into taking action against the culprits and to ensure the future safety of healthcare workers.

Driving tests disrupted for the third consecutive day in Kerala

A section of driving school owners boycott tests, prevent candidates from entering driving test venues in many parts of the State, demanding that the government withdraw its circular mandating test reforms

Congress deems Radhika Khera's statements aligned with BJP's rhetoric

Congress deems Radhika Khera's statements aligned with BJP's rhetoric Chhattisgarh Congress president Deepak Baij on Monday hit out at his former party colleague Radhika Khera a day after her resignation and accused her of speaking the language of the Bharatiya Janata Party and claimed she deliberately created a controversy before exit. Khera, the AICC's communication and media coordinator for Chhattisgarh for the Lok Sabha polls, resigned from the Congress's primary membership on Sunday, days after her altercation with another leader at the party's state unit office in Raipur. Khera also claimed she was facing opposition in the party for her visit to the Ram temple in Ayodhya. In her resignation letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, she claimed criticism over her visit to Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya led to the denial of justice to her in the incident that happened at the party's Chhattisgarh office last month. Talking to reporters in Raipur, state Congress president Baij alleged the entire resignation episode was a ''pre-planned political plot'' of the BJP and claimed Khera was speaking the saffron party's language. ''It was an in-house matter and linking it with temple (visit) and religion is not appropriate. The issue would have been resolved within the party. But if someone's mentality is to switch (to another party) and deliberately commit such acts, then such acts have no place in democracy,'' he said. Asked about her allegations related to the April 30 altercation with a party colleague, Ram temple visit and denial of justice, Baij noted, ''It was a fabricated story and deliberate attempt to create a new controversy. It was pre-planned and done at the BJP's behest. This planning was going on for long.'' The Congress leader said quitting the party was Khera's personal decision, but she could have waited for the outcome of the ongoing investigation into the matter (of altercation). Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Monday, Khera alleged the Congress party started hating her since she visited Ram Mandir in Ayodhya along with her mother. She alleged Sushil Anand Shukla, the Chhattisgarh Congress communication wing chairman with whom she had an altercation, offered her alcohol during party MP Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in the state in February and he used to knock on the door of her room in an inebriated condition. Khera further claimed Shukla abused her on April 30 in the party office in Raipur, but no action was taken against him. Strongly refuting her charges, Shukla maintained the script of Khera's story was written soon after Arvinder Singh Lovely (former Delhi Congress chief) quit the party in April-end. ''She (Khera) tried to assassinate my character. She claimed I offered her alcohol. Media persons know me. Neither I nor any of my family members have ever consumed liquor. I reject such allegations. If she wants to join the BJP, she can do so, my best wishes are with her. She was like my younger sister, but she crossed limits of levelling allegations,'' Shukla told reporters on Monday. Denying allegations that he abused her, Shukla said, ''Khera arrived in my room in the party office on April 30 when four other party leaders were present there. I enquired from her about the scheduled visit of (Chairman, Media & Publicity department, AICC) Pawan Khera on May 1. ''She informed Pawan Khera is scheduled to visit six media houses and she has spoken to editors and heads of those media houses. I objected to her directly contacting those media houses and bypassing the party's communication unit in the state in the process.'' Shukla informed this led to an argument between them. ''She asked why would she seek my permission? I told her to accept my resignation if she wants to do everything on her own. This led to an argument. She started shouting, claiming I am blackmailing the party with the threat of resignation. I denied her claim and said she should not bypass the state communication wing. She threatened to complain against me to the high command. This was the issue,'' he said. Shukla noted the party is investigating the matter. ''When heated arguments took place between us, she recorded the episode on her mobile phone. I challenge her to put that video in the public domain. Everything will become crystal clear. As part of investigation, statements of eyewitnesses and both of us were recorded by Deepak Baij ji. She knew the investigation would expose her therefore she escaped (resigned),'' he said.

Manipur Governor inaugurates School on Wheels for students of IDPs

Imphal: Governor of Manipur, Anusuiya Uikey inaugurated School on Wheels, on Sunday at Bal Vidya Mandir Complex, Palace Compound in Imphal. The initiative which is being implemented by Vidya Bharati Shiksha Vikash Samiti, Manipur, (VBSVS) aims to reach out to the students in the relief camps opened for the Internally Displaced persons owing to the [] The post Manipur Governor inaugurates School on Wheels for students of IDPs appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .

Rahul Gandhi wanted to overturn Ram Mandir verdict: Former Congress leader Acharya Pramods explosive revelation

Acharya Pramod Krishnam, a former Congress party member, said Rahul Gandhi plans to overturn the Ram Mandir verdict.

Rahul Gandhi vowed to overturn Ram Mandir verdict if voted to power: Acharya Pramod Krishnam

The News Mill

Third phase polling: BJP faces stiff opposition in seven constituencies in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD: Ahead of the third phase of polling on Tuesday, expectations are high in the BJP camp when it comes to the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat. Initially presumed as a smooth sail for the BJP--given its consecutive victories in the past two elections--however, the landscape has lately shifted. Local controversies, simmering social discontent, and internal discord among BJP ranks have reshaped the battleground. Seven Lok Sabha seats namely, Surendranagar, Sabarkantha, Banskantha, Rajkot, Anand, Patan, and Junagadh now emerge as fiercely contested arenas, where local leaders assert that victory margins may narrow significantly, challenging the BJP's erstwhile dominance. Surendranagar Here, candidates from the Talpada Koli and Chunwaliya Koli communities vied for tickets creating a headache for the BJP. People insisted that BJP give ticket to someone from the Talpada Koli community. But, Chandu bhai Sihora, hailing from the Chunwaliya Koli faction, was given ticket by the BJP. Talpada Koli constitute a significant portion, around 3 lakh, of the approximately four and a half lakh Koli voters in the area. Conversely, the Congress nominated Ritvik Makwana, representing the Talpada Koli community. Furthermore, the Kshatriya movement, gaining momentum across Gujarat against the BJP, stands as a pivotal factor in this constituency. Throughout the campaign trail, BJP leaders encountered resistance in urban and rural settings alike. The palpable discontent from the Talpada Koli and Kshatriya communities poses a potential threat to BJP's prospects in this seat. Sabarkantha In Sabarkantha, the political arena is heating up with former Chief Minister Amar Singh Chaudhary's son, Tushar Chaudhary, stepping into the fray as the Congress candidate. In a twist of events, Shobhana Baraiya, spouse of a former Congress MLA who defected to the BJP, is also vying for the seat. Initially, BJP had nominated Bhikhaji Thakor for this constituency, but amid controversy surrounding his surname, he withdrew his candidacy, triggering widespread protests. Supporters of Bhikhaji staged demonstrations across the Sabar Kantha district, expressing their discontent with the BJP. The opposition is not limited to Bhikhaji's supporters alone. BJP MLA Ramanlal Vora encountered resistance, and several other BJP leaders faced opposition during their rallies. With the Thakor community commanding 20 percent of the votes in this constituency, their stance could sway the electoral landscape if they choose to support Bhikhaji, making the battle for this seat intriguing. Banaskantha In Banaskantha, the political stage is set with Congress leader Ganiben Thakor, renowned for her victory over BJP's prominent cooperative leader and the current Speaker of the Gujarat Assembly, Shankar Chaudhary, in the 2017 assembly election, now emerging as the Congress candidate. Meanwhile, BJP has nominated Rekha Chaudhary, perceived to be aligned with the Shankar Chaudhary faction. With a total of 19 lakh voters in the constituency, the Chaudhary and Thakor communities hold significant sway. Historically, the outcome of elections here hinges on the support of these communities. Despite speculations surrounding Parbat Patel, the BJP leader who won the 2019 Lok Sabha election, being considered a potential candidate against Rekha Chaudhary, he did not receive the ticket, leading to claims of inactivity among Parbat Patel's supporters in this seat. Local sentiments highlight Ganiben's active presence among the people, contrasting with Rekha's perceived lack of experience. The campaign gained momentum with the presence of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi on the final day, indicating the party's strong position in the constituency. Rajkot Rajkot, traditionally viewed as a stronghold for the BJP, has witnessed unexpected outcomes in the past, although former Congress leaders who once shaped those results have now crossed over to the BJP. The electorate in this constituency is predominantly composed of Patidar, Koli, and Kshatriya voters. However, BJP candidate Parushottam Rupala's remarks regarding the Kshatriya community have sparked opposition from Kshatriya voters across Gujarat. In response to Rupala's candidacy, the Congress has nominated Paresh Dhanani, a prominent leader from the Leua Patidar Community, who previously defeated Rupala in the Amreli Legislative Assembly. The ongoing Kshatriya movement has heightened attention on this seat, capturing the interest of the entire state of Gujarat. Anand In Anand, the Kshatriya movement's influence and rural dissatisfaction with the ruling party have become pronounced. Congress, once a formidable force in the region with a robust network, is gaining ground. The party has nominated former Congress president Amit Chavda to contest, while Mitesh Patel represents the BJP. Campaign dynamics intensified with the circulation of viral videos targeting the BJP candidate. Simultaneously, the impact of the Kshatriya movement has resonated in Anand, with the community staging multiple protests during BJP leaders' meetings. Amit Chavda's charisma and his family's deep-rooted connections within the locality have bolstered Congress's prospects, further solidifying its stance in the region. Patan In Patan, the electoral battle narrows down to a face-off between BJP's Bharat Singh Thakor and Congress's Chandan Singh Thakor. Chandansingh enjoys a favorable reputation within the Thakor community. This constituency comprises assembly seats like Siddapur, Patan, Chansma, Randhanpur, Vadgam, Kheralu, and Siddhapur. While BJP typically holds strong ground in Kheralu and Siddhapur, Congress's influence prevails in Randhanpur and Patan. Moreover, Patidar community leader and Congress MLA Kirit Patel hails from Patan. Vadgam, on the other hand, is characterized by its Kshatriya, minority, and Dalit demographics. The outcome of the Patan seat hinges on factors such as the influence of the Kshatriya movement and the support from minority voters. Junagadh In Junagadh, the resistance against BJP candidate Rajesh Chudasma extends beyond surface appearances, delving into internal dynamics. Alongside allegations regarding his nvolvement in the suicide of a prominent doctor from Veraval, local leaders express discontent with his leadership. Critics highlight Chudasma's notably low participation in public-oriented initiatives, irrespective of party affiliations. The Visavadar seat within the Junagadh Lok Sabha witnesses the highest level of opposition toward Chudasma. Additionally, Congress leader Hira Jotwa's standing, the ripple effects of the Kshatriya movement, and opposition stemming from the suicide of a doctor from the Lohana Thakkar community compound Chudasma's challenges.

You ate them all up: Richa Chadha hailed best in Heeramandi; netizens call her better than Manisha, Sonakshi

Richa Chadha seems to have overshadowed Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari and others with her portrayal of Lajjo in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.

Akshay Kumar Calls Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Heeramandi A Grand Spectacle, Praises Sonakshi Sinha

Heeramandi marked Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series. It starred Sonakshi Sinha in a titular role.

BRS Leader K Kavitha Denied Bail in Excise Case by Delhi Court

BRS Leader K Kavitha Denied Bail in Excise Case by Delhi Court A court here on Monday dismissed the bail applications filed by BRS leader K Kavitha in corruption and money laundering cases being probed by the CBI and ED in connection with the alleged excise policy scam. Special Judge for CBI and ED, Kaveri Baweja, dismissed the applications, saying prima facie there appeared to be sufficient material against the accused. ''In the light of the discussion, the material on record and the seriousness of allegations against the accused, this court is not inclined to admit the applicant on bail at this stage... ''Though she was not being considered a flight risk, considering her conduct with regard to the threatening of witnesses and also the apprehension that she, being an influential person, may try to influence other witnesses of the case, the accused is not entitled to be released on bail at this stage,'' the judge said. The application, filed by advocate Nitesh Rana, had claimed that the accused was not required for further investigation and that no purpose will be served by keeping her in further custody. In the order, the judge accepted the arguments made by the central probe agencies that ''the nature and gravity of the alleged offences, which further magnifies in view of it being an economic offence, having tendency to affect the economic system of the country, public interest must take precedence over personal liberty''. The judge further noted that that the investigation of the case is at a very crucial stage on certain key aspects, including the involvement of other public servants and private persons and to ascertain the flow of proceeds of crime. ''The role of the accused also prima facie appears as that of key conspirator of the criminal conspiracy hatched for the purpose of collection and payment of upfront money to AAP through co-accused for getting favourable provisions in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. ''Her role in demanding the upfront money and the alleged payment thereof for favourable provisions in the Excise Policy have also been highlighted in the course of arguments and as discussed in the preceding paragraphs, the judge noted. The judge also rejected the accused's argument for bail on medical ground, noting that she was getting requisite treatment for her medical concerns in the jail dispensary. ''In the light of the above said discussion and having regard to the entirety of the facts and circumstances, this Court is not inclined to release the accused on bail, either 'regular' or 'interim', at this stage. Accordingly, the application under consideration is dismissed,'' the judge said. Kavitha is in judicial custody in both the cases lodged by the ED and the CBI. The ED arrested Kavitha (46) from her Banjara Hills residence in Hyderabad on March 15, and she was in judicial custody in the case. The CBI arrested the Bharatiya Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader from judicial custody.

Heeramandi: Manisha Koirala BREAKS Silence on Oral Sex Scene With Shekhar Suman, 'Bhansali Tries To...'

Heeramandi marks the reunion of actress Manisha Koirala with Sanjay Leela Bhansali after a long wait of 28 years. They previously worked together in 'Khamoshi'.

Akshay reviews Heeramandi; lauds Sonakshi Sinha

Amid shooting 'Jolly LLB 3,' Akshay Kumar took a break to appreciate Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi,' praising Sonakshi Sinha's performance. He shared his thoughts on social media, lauding the show's grandeur and Sonakshi's acting prowess. A viral video from the 'Jolly LLB 3' set, showing Akshay shirtless, also generated fan excitement.

Heeramandi actress Shruti Sharma reacts to Sharmin Segal being trolled for her acting: 'Criticism is one thing but...'

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's niece Sharmin Segal is being trolled for her poor acting in Heeramandi. Here's how her co-star Shruti Sharma has responded to the same.

Gujarat: BJP aims to hit 500K margin in all seats, but internal issues pose risk

The BJP is set to vote in 25 of Gujarat's 26 Lok Sabha constituencies on Tuesday, with the party having already won unopposed in Surat. The party had previously targeted a winning margin of half a million votes in all seats, having done so twice in 2014 and 2019. However, as the campaign settles for the third phase, concerns have arisen within the party. The campaign has focused largely on national narratives, Ram Mandir, and the Hindutva agenda, but local issues have created more resonance in the state than larger appeal.

Heeramandis Lajjo Aka Richa Chadha Shares BTS Video From Her Swan Song Masoom Dil Hai Mera

Richa Chadha, who portrayed Lajjo in the series, is receiving numerous compliments for her small yet powerful role.

Doctor Who first look review Ncuti Gatwa will make this show far more fun than its been for years

This is it! The Fifteenth Doctor is here and hes a dazzling, all-singing, all-dancing delight. If only Russell T Davies didnt spend so much time spoon-feeding new fans Christmas specials dont count. Intermediate trilogies where David Tennant is the Fourteenth-and-a-Half Doctor or whatever dont count. The new era of Doctor Who, with Russell T Davies back as the showrunner and Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor, only really begins here, with the new season proper. The first double bill, comprising Space Babies and The Devils Chord, points to a stellar future for Who as a youthfully chaotic playground of the imagination, far more fancy of foot and light of outlook than it has been for years. It only takes baby steps, for now, towards that new destination, but we can see it. Gatwa establishes himself as a cracking Doctor immediately. What an obviously perfect piece of casting he is: commandingly hench in his colourful costumes, and naturally able to express the dazzling extremes the Doctor has to embody. He glowers, and the end of the world descends; a nanosecond later, he grins and were having the most fun in the universe. Hes delightful, but hes also consciously more delighted than some of his predecessors, skipping and dancing and, on a few occasions here, doing a sideways gallop when he enters a room, like Kramer from Seinfeld with springs on his heels. Continue reading...

Kangana Ranaut's speech sparks controversy; netizens troll the actress for comparing herself to Amitabh Bachchan

Kangana Ranaut's recent election rally speech has stirred a whirlwind of reactions among netizens. A snippet from her impassioned address has swiftly gone viral across online platforms. During the rally, Kangana drew parallels between herself and Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, sparking both admiration and criticism. The viral video has triggered a plethora of responses from netizens, with many expressing skepticism over Kangana's comparison to one of Bollywoods most revered icons. In her speech, Kangana confidently proclaimed, 'Sara desh hairaan hai, ki Kangana, chahe Rajasthan chali jaun, chahe mai West Bengal chali jaun, chahe mai Delhi chali jaun, chahe mai Manipur chali jaun, aisa lagta hai ki mano itna pyaar aur itna sammaan Mein daave se keh sakti hu ke Amitabh Bachchan ji ke baad aaj kisiko industry me milta hai to wo mujhe milta hai.' However, amidst the ensuing backlash and trolling, the 'Dhaakad' actress took to her Instagram handle to address the criticism at length. She shared a news report questioning, If not me after Big B, who gets the most amount of love and respect? Amidst the political realm, Kangana has emerged as a BJP candidate for the Lok Sabha elections from the Mandi Parliamentary Constituency. Additionally, she is gearing up for her next venture, 'Emergency,' a biopic on former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Rahul Gandhi Wants To Become Travel Vlogger; Congress Started Hating Me After Ram Mandir Visit: Radhika Khera Alleges

Akshay Kumar, Shekhar Kapur loved 'Heeramandi'

Akshay Kumar Shekhar Kapur loved Heeramandi

FACTBOX-The UN nuclear watchdog's long list of difficulties in Iran

FACTBOX-The UN nuclear watchdog's long list of difficulties in Iran U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi will hold talks with senior officials in Iran on Monday and Tuesday, hoping to bolster his agency's oversight of Iran's nuclear activities. Since then-President Donald Trump's decision in 2018 to pull the United States out of a landmark deal between Iran and major powers that restricted Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, that accord has unravelled. Iran retaliated to the re-imposition of sanctions lifted under the deal by breaching and going far beyond the nuclear restrictions. It is now enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, close to the 90% of weapons grade, and has enough uranium enriched to that level, if enriched further, for two atom bombs. Western powers say there is no credible civil justification for that. Iran says its aims are purely peaceful. Below are some of the difficulties the International Atomic Energy Agency currently faces in Iran. SNAP INSPECTIONS Under the 2015 deal between Iran and major powers, Iran agreed to implement the Additional Protocol, an agreement between the IAEA and member states that lets the IAEA carry out snap inspections at locations of interest including undeclared ones, not just the declared facilities it inspects regularly. As part of measures it announced in February 2021, Iran stopped implementing the Additional Protocol, ending snap inspections. MONITORING SCOPE As a party to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Iran is subject to IAEA inspections of its core nuclear facilities, such as its uranium-enrichment plants at Natanz and Fordow. The 2015 deal, however, expanded the scope of IAEA monitoring to more activities and facilities. Those included production and inventory of parts for centrifuges, the machines that enrich uranium, as well as yellowcake, a form of uranium that needs further processing before it can be fed into centrifuges for enrichment. Iran scrapped those extra measures in February 2021. The IAEA has now lost continuity of knowledge on items including the number of centrifuges Iran has, heightening fears that Iran could set up a secret enrichment site. Without snap inspections, that would be much harder to detect. CAMERAS To cushion the blow of the measures announced in February 2021, the IAEA struck a deal with Tehran under which surveillance cameras and other equipment carrying out extra monitoring introduced by the 2015 deal would stay in place but the data collected would remain in Iran's hands, under seal. The IAEA still has not had access to any of that footage. In June 2022, Iran had the IAEA remove those cameras. In March 2023, Iran and the IAEA agreed on a Joint Statement that was short on detail but that the IAEA understood to be a sweeping pledge of cooperation by Iran, including on re-installing those cameras. In the months following the statement a fraction of the cameras the IAEA wanted to instal were installed but the IAEA says there was o further progress after June of last year on cooperation as outlined in the Joint Statement. INSPECTORS In September 2023, Iran barred many of the IAEA's top enrichment experts assigned to the country, which diplomats said left only one such expert on the highly sensitive technology. The IAEA condemned the move, saying that although it was technically allowed, it was unprecedented and a very serious blow to its ability to do its job properly in Iran. URANIUM TRACES The IAEA has been demanding for years that Iran explain the origin of uranium traces found at largely old but undeclared sites in Iran. The IAEA's 35-nation Board of Governors passed a resolution in June 2022 urging Iran to cooperate with the IAEA on the issue without delay and then another in November 2022 ordering Iran to cooperate urgently with the IAEA's investigation. Iran has said such resolutions are anti-Iranian and politically motivated. Recent IAEA reports have said Iran has still not provided technically credible explanations for the uranium traces. MODIFIED CODE 3.1 According to the IAEA so-called modified Code 3.1, part of the agreement spelling out Iran's obligations under the NPT provides for the submission to the Agency of design information for new nuclear facilities as soon as the decision to construct, or to authorize construction of, a new facility has been taken, whichever is the earlier. Since February 2021 Iran has said it is no longer implementing the code, but the IAEA says it is a legal obligation that Iran cannot suspend. This again raises the question of whether Iran is planning or has started to build nuclear facilities in secret. It has publicly announced plans for new nuclear power plants and broken ground on them without informing the IAEA.

Taha Shah Badussha visits Siddhivinayak temple after 'Heeramandi' success

Taha Shah Badussha visits Siddhivinayak temple after Heeramandi success

Jason Shah REACTS to a rape scene featuring Manisha Koirala

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's web series, 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' has finally hit the OTT platform and has been receiving rave reviews from all sides already.

Rekha Praises Manisha Koirala For Her Heeramandi Performance: 'Added Soul To The Role'

Heeramandi is Manisha Koirala's first series. Rekha was all praises about Manisha Koirala after watching Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi, which is streaming on Netflix.

Kangana suffering from mental ailment: Congress leader Rakesh

Mandi (HP): Criticising actor and BJPs Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut for making personal attacks, Congress leader Rakesh Kumar Singh on Monday said a normal person cannot make such baseless statements. Kangana is suffering from a mental ailment and making baseless statements, Singh, who is the Congress observer for Mandi and Jogindernagar assembly segments, told reporters Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

College students stage protest demanding holidays in summer

Hyderabad: Several students of MGIT College on Monday staged a demonstration at the academic block demanding that the management declare holidays, in view of sweltering heat conditions prevailing in the city for the last few days. Irate students assembled in front of the academic block, raising slogans demanding that the management immediately declare holidays as they were facing problems because of heat wave conditions. Thought the staff tried to pacify them, the students did not relent. They said it was not advisable on the part of management to conduct classes at a time when the day temperatures were at peak causing problems to them. The videos of the students staging demonstration in the college went viral on various social media platforms, drawing attention of several people.

Kangana Ranaut: Check LSS Congress Candidate From Himachal Pradesh`s Mandi Lok Sabha Seat

Kangana Ranaut is all set to contest from Himachal Prades's Mandiparliamentary constituency in Phase 7

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis niece Sharmin Segal disables Instagram comments after netizens lambast her performance in Heeramandi

Online users have lauded the sincere acting of stars like Richa Chadha, Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, among others, but they've strongly criticized Segal for her portrayal. Many online critics mocked her for maintaining a repetitive expression throughout the series. Her casting as one of the main characters in the show have also triggered accusations of nepotism against Bhansali.

Will Kangana quit Bollywood after joining politics?

Kangana Ranaut has revealed if she's deciding to quit Bollywood after joining movies. The actress expressed that she wants to live up to the expectations of people if she wins from Mandi.

'Rahul planned to overturn Ram Mandir verdict if voted to power'

Bomb explosion kills teenager in Bengal; BJP MP blocks road demanding NIA probe

Kolkata: A teenage boy was killed and two others were injured in a bomb explosion in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Monday, prompting the local BJP MP Locket Chatterjee to block the arterial for over two hours demanding NIA probe into the incident. The incident occurred at Pandua in Hooghly district near a pond where a group of boys were playing. Police said the boy succumbed to his injuries in a hospital in Pandua while two other injured persons were transferred to a healthcare facility in Chinsurah for better treatment. An investigation into the explosion that occurred at around 8.30 am has started, police said. The BJP MP, accompanied by hundreds of party workers, blocked GT Road alleging that TMC goons were involved in the blast in their bid to create an air of panic ahead of its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee's campaign in the area later in the day. Along with the people of Pandua, I demand justice for the families of the innocent boys. The state police are incapable of conducting a thorough, impartial probe into the incident. We want an NIA probe, she told PTI. Chatterjee had an altercation with the police officers who requested her to lift the blockade. TMC spokesperson Trinankur Bhattacharya said it was an unfortunate incident having no relation with politics and police were conducting investigations. She (Chatterjee) wants to play politics over the dead body of a child. The BJP seeks NIA probe into each and every bomb blast incident in West Bengal, Bhattacharya said.

Shekhar Suman Has Taken A Leaf From These Actors - Dilip Kumar And Aamir Khan

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar features Shekhar Suman in the role of Nawab Zulfikar

Will Ram Mandir give BJP the push it needs to grow in Telangana?

Hyderabad: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is banking heavily on Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity and the saffron shades of Lord Ramas idol installation at the Ayodhya Ram temple, hoping that its impact will make its way into previously unexplored areas in Telangana. The party is also looking to eat up political space held by Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .