OSOM 2025 showcased how airports, technology, and universal design can work together to build an ecosystem where every person, regardless of disability, can navigate the world with dignity and independence
Living and Leaving Well : Author Jerry Pinto's latest book dives into the realm of palliative care
Death is a topic many approach with denial. But writer and journalist Jerry Pinto who won the Best Book on Cinema Award at the 54th National Film Awards has spent nearly two years doing something most people avoid: listening to stories about illness, pain, caregiving and the inevitable death. His new book, A Good Life (699, Juggernaut), is the result of this long, emotionally demanding journey into the world of palliative care in India. Through conversations with patients, caregivers, doctors, nurses and families, Pinto opens a conversation that society has kept on hold for too long. Behind the book was a strong will. His close friend, painter-illustrator Mehlli Gobhai, before his passing, had left money for childrens charities and named Pinto as one of the executors. While searching for the right cause to support, he came across the paediatric palliative care unit at a childrens hospital in Mumbai. They wanted to hire a librarian who would read to children and keep them entertained in their hospital beds, he shares. It touched something deep inside me. It fitted in with who I am a great believer in the power of the story, and with what Mehlli would have wanted, he reminisces. This discovery led him into the larger world of palliative care. He soon met doctors from the Cipla Palliative Care network who encouraged him to write a book on the subject, which was when he realised that palliative care was universal. At some point, we will be caregivers or we will need care. We are never going to be just bystanders, he says. Later, across visits to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Goa, Pinto encountered many stories that reshaped his understanding of illness and mortality. To his dismay, he discovered from Dr MR Rajagopal that only 4 per cent of India has access to end-stage pain relief, despite the country being one of the worlds leading producers of legal morphine. Another moment came when a doctor told him that modern medicine can only cure 15 to 20 per cent of diseases. However, the stories that stayed with him were the ones where compassion went beyond protocol. He recounts how a Bengaluru doctor tracked down a patients estranged son so the mother, who was dying, could speak to him one last time. The doctor becomes a detective. That, to me, is the real art of medicine caring about people, he says. For Pinto, stories are essential to change how one views dying. Only stories can create any shift. One misconception is that people will not be able to take the news of a life-threatening disease, so families keep them in the dark. When we begin to accept that death is part of life, that it can be made beautiful or easy, that is when the stories make an impact, he said. In Goa, he met a 28-year-old man who had spent two decades lying in bed because no one had told him he could sit up. Through steady visits and reassurance, a palliative care team helped him sit, use a wheelchair and re-enter the world. A life was changed by this one intervention, Pinto points out. On choosing the title, he notes, Palliative care is associated only with the last stage of life, as if you should wait for the last two weeks. But palliative care is about helping you lead a good life. Additionally, writing the book changed him, too. My fear of death has gone, he says, adding, It wasnt death I feared, but indignity and hopelessness. Through A Good Life , he hopes readers and policymakers absorb that everyone has the right to live and leave well with dignity.
Numb with excitement: Bengaluru Linkin Park fans are elated about band's upcoming concert in city
With lyrics that bared heartbreak, anguish, and loneliness set to music that straddles rock, metal, electronic and pop, Linkin Parks songs including hits like 'Numb', 'In the End', and 'Somewhere we Belong', shook the walls of an entire generation of teenagers growing up in the 2000s and 2010s. Indian fans have long waited for the moment that came true over the weekend: confirmation that the popular band wouldnt just headline Lollapalooza in Mumbai but perform a full fledged concert right here in Bengaluru on Jan 23. The announcement came after a week of intense speculation caused by mysterious billboards stating One show wasnt enough with Linkin Parks logo. The bands manager Adam Ruehmer cryptically replying to a fan who had posted the image on X with It looks real to me, added fuel to the fire. While some expressed disappointment at already having bought tickets for Lollapalooza, others like Rithvik DGV, who is travelling from Hyderabad, have decided to attend both. The headliner performs for half an hour but a proper standalone concert is three hours long. I was planning to travel to South-East Asia for a concert but when the Bluru show got confirmed, my friends group who hadnt booked Lollapalooza tickets decided we could squeeze in another concert ticket, he says, with a laugh. I recently saw a clip of their Brazil show which was like a mini earthquake with everyone jumping thats what I want to get here. For content writer Ritika Mudabidri, who grew up listening to the band, this is a nostalgic moment. To relive it, she is not only re-listening to old discography but will also be attending the show with her cousin who introduced her to the band as a nine year old. They represent a part of my childhood I remember having them playing all the time so its nostalgic that Im going with her. New beginnings The excitement is also tinged with a hint of sadness, given that the bands new vocalist Emily Armstrongs voice will take the place of late lead singer Chester Bennington. The band released a new album with her and drummer Colin Brittain last year after a seven year hiatus following Bennigntons death. While some say its not the same, others feel that Linkin Parks essence has stayed. Bringing Emily in is the highest sign of respect that Chester could have gotten. I dont think any male vocalist would have measured up. Linkin Park has kept it interesting on a lot of levels with the music and shes got a different spin on the songs, states musician Karthik Chennoji Rao. Its the music that matters to me. Its different, but theyre making great music; Im excited to see what they have in store, says Rithvik while metal enthusiast and small business owner, Nikita Nain adds, Its a good vibe and will be a new experience for those who have seen Chester live. What does this mean for ooru? While a Linkin Park concert in ooru came as a surprise to some, Nikita notes that it was only a matter of time since Bengaluru has already been on the map for rock and metal concerts with popular metal festival, Bangalore Open Air. She says, I kept faith and believed that they would come here. Rock might be dying in the world, but its not in Bengaluru; a lot of old-school artistes and tribute bands will be lining up to see Linkin Park. Karthik who has seen Bengalurus music scene evolve over a decade says, Ive seen the citys music scene boom but also deteriorate and be shaky with venues shutting doors. Linkin Park coming here, like Coldplay in Mumbai a few years ago, is going to bring in a lot of money and people will look at bringing in more rock acts.
'Smashed his head with hammer': Missing Bengaluru techie killed over money deal, buried 125km away
A software engineer, missing since October 27, was found buried in a house in Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh. Police arrested his cousin, Prabhakar, and an associate for the murder. Prabhakar confessed to killing the victim over a Rs 40 lakh business investment that went sour.
Rice price rise looms as govt set to repair Tungabhadra dam crest gates
512 child labourers freed this year; Yadgir tops rescues
Amid Rs 613-crore dust storm, Greater Bengaluru Authority defends sweeping-machine rentals
Bengalurus pet lovers protest Supreme Court order to remove stray dogs from public places
Karnataka sets $3bn investment target in 1st standalone space policy
Man threatens to blow up Bengaluru Metro station, arrested
Biryani sellers-turned-bike lifters arrested in Bengaluru
The Mahadevapura police have arrested two persons who worked as biryani vendors during the day and allegedly turned into serial offenders at night, stealing high-end motorcycles parked outside houses
3D artist found hanging in Electronics City flat in Bengaluru
Techie murdered for asking back loan, body buried inside house in Andhra Pradesh
A 30-year-old software engineer who went missing from Attibele was found murdered and buried inside the house of his cousin in Andhra Pradesh
Karnataka high court dismisses police plea to match deceased womans fingerprint with Aadhaar data
Karnataka high court upholds compensation for married sisters of man killed in accident
Miscreant sneaks into house in Bengaluru, steals gadgets
Firms keen to invest in Tumakuru Metro, says Karnataka home minister Parameshwara
Man sentenced to life for murdering wife in 2016
Drugs worth Rs 14 crore seized; 8 rare animals rescued at Kempegowda International Airport
Courier firm in Bengaluru finds MDMA cystals in parcel
Man robbed at knifepoint by scooter-borne duo in Bengaluru
Gold jewellery worth Rs 60L stolen from familys suitcase in bus travelling to Mysuru
Bengaluru: 14 foreign nationals among 19 arrested in CCB raids; drugs worth 7.7 crore seized
A Bengaluru man's ambitious Rs 1.5 crore savings goal in nine years to buy coastal Karnataka land has ignited a fierce online debate. Earning Rs 70,000 monthly, he aims to invest heavily, but Reddit users are questioning the feasibility, citing income-to-property value ratios and the sheer scale of savings required. The discussion highlights the stark realities of property affordability.
India needs to catch up with Chinas breakneck speed in innovation
Experts expressed the view that product-led growth should be the focus rather than one that relies on being the back office of the world with millions of engineers who write codes
KEONICS receives pre-orders for 1,500 units of its new AI-computer
KEO is Karnatakas practical answer to the digital divide, says Priyank Kharge about the computer priced at 18,999
Think Bengaluru traffic is bad? Try controlling it
The Hindu reporter gets an opportunity to man one of Bengalurus busiest traffic junctions during the morning peak hour.
Coffee Board of India sets a target to double production to over 7 lakh tonnes by 2047
Goal is to achieve 15% speciality coffee out of this 7 lakh tons, says Coffee Board Chairman M.J. Dinesh
Bengaluru home to about 25 lakh IT professionals: DKS
Bengaluru: Filmmaker Prashanth Kanathur son's found dead in Neeladri Nagar; note cites depression
A 22-year-old private company employee, Anirudh Prashant, was found hanging in his Bengaluru flat on Monday. His colleagues, concerned after he missed work and calls, discovered him with the help of security. A death note on a whiteboard indicated he was depressed.
New IT City in Bidadi To Accommodate More Firms
Shivakumar pointed out that Bengaluru having about 25 lakh IT professionals is double the figures of California having about 13 lakh IT professionals
Senior citizen arrested for sending threat mail to BMRCL
Man, 62, With Mental Health Issues Arrested For Bengaluru Metro Bomb Threat
Bengaluru Police have arrested a 62-year-old man for sending a bomb threat email to the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL). The accused, Rajiv, is a diploma holder and lives on Belthur 2nd Main Road, 6th Cross.
Pilot project begins as GBA prepares citywide paid parking plan backed by DULT study
As Bengalurus streets choke under unregulated parking, the Greater Bengaluru Authority has drawn up a plan to introduce paid parking acrossall five corporation wards
Bengaluru scientists win 2025 Tata TransformationPrize
The winners are PadubidriV.Shivaprasad ofNational Centre for Biological Sciences, and Balasubramanian Gopal and Ambarish Ghosh ofIndian Institute of Sciencefor research in food security, sustainability and healthcare respectively.
Medvedev,Rybakinato play in the BengaluruWTL
Why Bengalurus rental market ignores the twomonth deposit cap
Brokers told businessline that, after the Model Tenancy Act of 2021 came into force, landlords reduced deposits from ten months to about six months, but they remain reluctant to charge only the legally permitted two months
Bengaluru citizens protest Supreme Court order on removing street dogs from public institutions
Over 250 citizens gathered at Freedom Park to protest the recent Supreme Court order directing the removal of street dogs from public institutions such as schools and hospitals
Bengaluru Man Arrested for Threat Mail to Blast Metro
Police investigations revealed accused Rajiv is a mentally unstable
Bengaluru airport reports 58.26 kg hydroponic ganja seizures since start of November details here
Bengaluru Customs officers intercepted a passenger arriving from Bangkok at Kempegowda International Airport. They seized over 3.8 kilograms of hydroponic ganja valued at more than Rs 1.34 crore. The passenger was arrested under the NDPS Act. This is one of several seizures made by Bengaluru Customs in November, totaling significant amounts of contraband.
Visually Impaired Medallist Saurabh Sharma Prepares For Debut At Adani Ahmedabad Marathon
National Drishti Divyangjan Empowerment Institute: For 20-year-old para-athlete Saurabh Sharma, the upcoming Adani Ahmedabad Marathon represents more than just a race; it symbolises his progress in sport and personal growth. A visually impaired runner from Himachal Pradesh, Saurabh has competed on prominent para-athletics platforms both nationally and internationally. Participating in the Ahmedabad Marathon will be a significant new milestone in his inspiring journey. Born with partial blindness, Saurabh started his sporting career at the National Drishti Divyangjan Empowerment Institute in Dehradun, where coach Naresh Singh Nayal guided him. Though initially interested in football and cricket, it was his coach who introduced him to running, a change that would ultimately shape his athletic path career. In 2021, I competed in my first Para Nationals in Bengaluru and finished among the top five. The next year, I won my first medal in the 5000m in Odisha. In 2024, I travelled to Switzerland for my first international event and won two gold medals there. Thats when I realised how far this journey could go, said the 20-year-old, who claimed two gold medals at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2024 in Switzerland. Saurabh has represented India in the 1500m and 5000m T12 events at international competitions in Tunisia and India. He has also won medals at both editions of the Khelo India Para Games in 2023 and 2025. Currently, he trains at the SAI Centre in Gandhinagar under Naresh Sharma. The biggest challenge for a visually impaired runner is finding a guide, and the expenses are often double, he said. Im fortunate that in my category I can run independently. But Ive also guided other runners at the Blind National Championship in 2022, and I know how much trust and practice it takes. At the SAI Centre, we have access to good coaching, nutrition, and facilities. It allows us to focus completely on performance and international preparation, he added. Like many para-athletes, his journey has been defined as much by perseverance as by patience. In the beginning, my family didnt understand sports. They would ask, what kind of game is this? But as they saw me compete and win, they became my biggest support system, he said. This November, Saurabh will join thousands of runners to celebrate fitness and national pride at the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon. Since it began, the event has supported the #Run4OurSoldiers cause, honouring Indias armed forces. It has become one of the countrys biggest inclusive races, bringing together civilians and members of the Indian Armed Forces to run in unity and pride for the nation. The best part about this marathon is that its inclusive. My childhood dream was to join the army, but because of my visual impairment, I couldnt. Running in a race that celebrates our soldiers feels very special. Its a way to contribute in my own way, he said. Like many para-athletes, his journey has been defined as much by perseverance as by patience. In the beginning, my family didnt understand sports. They would ask, what kind of game is this? But as they saw me compete and win, they became my biggest support system, he said. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The ninth edition of the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon is scheduled for November 30. Article Source: IANS
Karnataka to set up 200-acre semiconductor park in upcoming KWIN city
Karnataka is establishing a 200-acre semiconductor park near Bengaluru. This initiative aims to boost advanced industrial sectors. The park will offer complete infrastructure for semiconductor companies. It is set to become a major innovation hub for the state and the nation. The government is prioritizing investments in emerging fields like drones and solar energy.
Bengaluru is set for a massive infrastructure upgrade with over Rs 1 lakh crore investment. Karnataka's Deputy CM announced ambitious projects including India's longest twin tunnel, double-decker metro, and elevated corridors. A second airport and a futuristic AI City are also planned, aiming to solidify Bengaluru's position as a global tech hub and innovation engine.
Breaking down Bengalurus Outer Ring Road traffic nightmare
What causes congestion on Outer Ring Road (ORR) in Bengaluru and why is a realistic and lasting solution to the traffic woes elusive?
Bengaluru Traffic Brought To Standstill By Rolls-Royce Fleet, Video Goes Viral
The video drew attention, with many people commenting on the unmatched elegance and the rare sight of so many expensive cars together in India.
Bengaluru Residential sales expected to grow at 3-5% in FY26
Bengaluru's housing market anticipates a 3-5% rise in FY26. Steady demand in mid-income and luxury homes fuels this growth. New property launches are set to climb, supported by inventory and buyer interest in higher-value segments. The market shows a shift towards larger, premium units. Unsold stock levels remain manageable, indicating a dynamic real estate landscape.
Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation's proposal to extend the Green Line to Tumakuru is drawing sharp criticism. Experts argue Metro is for city travel, not long distances. They suggest suburban rail and Regional Rapid Transit System for inter-district connectivity. The proposed extension faces concerns over cost and efficiency. Leaders advocate for prioritizing existing suburban rail projects.
Bengaluru police urge people to use KSP app for safety
The app enables quick access to police assistance, particularly for individuals travelling through isolated or vulnerable areas
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University successfully hosted 'Kairos 2025', its annual International Students Day celebration, marking a significant milestone towards fostering global academic collaboration and cultural exchange. The event was organized by the Office of International Affairs & Collaboration and centered on the theme " Empowering Students to be Agents of Change ." MAHE Leaders and student representatives jointly inaugurated 'Kairos 2025' on International Students' Day The gala event commenced with an International University Fair from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring participation from over 30 international universities. The fair offered students a detailed insight into various academic programs, scholarship opportunities, enrollment processes, and campus facilities at host universities worldwide. The event was attended by students and staff from MAHE, as well as participants from recognized colleges in Udupi, demonstrating MAHE's commitment to community engagement. Several of MAHE's existing collaborating universities participated in the fair, strengthening the ongoing partnerships. The afternoon transitioned into a vibrant cultural showcase from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, where country stalls representing 20 nations were hosted by both Indian and international students from different MAHE institutions. The stalls featured students from international mobility programs, including representatives from Efrie-France, Deakin University-Australia, and Maastricht University-Netherlands, along with international faculty members at MAHE. Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, graced the occasion by visiting the stalls and interacting with participating students. The formal launch of Kairos 2025 took place from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM, with the Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor as Chief Guest and Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE as Guest of Honor. As a symbolic gesture celebrating international cultural diversity, all Heads of Institutions, along with student representatives from participating countries, jointly inaugurated the event. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph commemorating the multicultural spirit of MAHE. Dr. Anup Naha, Director of International Collaborations, MAHE Manipal, commented on the event's success Kairos 2025 is a significance to our vision of creating global citizens who are equipped to navigate and contribute to an interconnected world. By bringing together students, universities, and cultures from across the globe, we are not only celebrating diversity but actively cultivating the collaborative mindset and cross-cultural competencies that define the leaders of tomorrow. " The evening concluded with a few spectacular cultural performances featuring international student bodies including IAESTE, AIESEC, IPSF, and MUN, along with VSO and student teams from Tibet and Maldives. Each team presented five-minute performances aligned with the global theme of Kairos, followed by an energetic DJ program that brought together the diverse student community into grand celebrations. The day-long celebration demonstrated MAHE's commitment to internationalization and provided a comprehensive platform for students, faculty, and international partners to engage in meaningful dialogue about global education opportunities and cross-cultural understanding. About Manipal Academy of Higher Education The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life.
A defining feature of Karnatakas approach is inclusivity and the State is consciously decentralising technology economy by developing Tier-2 cities as the next generation innovation clusters, said the CM
Bengalurus Ultraviolette expands to UK with flagship electric motorcycles
Electric two-wheeler maker Ultraviolette has entered the UK market. The company launched its F77 MACH 2 RECON and F77 SuperStreet RECON performance motorcycles. This expansion is a partnership with MotoMondo. Ultraviolette CEO Narayan Subramaniam expressed pleasure at the launch in the UK. The company anticipates the UK-India Free Trade Agreement will aid technology transfer.
Epic VF 7 Road Trip Shows Indian Drivers What EV Future Could Look Like
A Vietnamese creators epic crossing from Asia toward Africa is giving India an early glimpse of how the VinFast VF 7 could change ordinary road travel by demonstrating how a straightforward electric car can carry itself across long distances with steady ease. India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback Early one October morning in Hanoi, automotive YouTuber Nguyen Thanh Hai, known to his followers as Hai Kar, packed his VinFast VF 7 and began an extraordinary journey. His plan is to drive from Vietnam to Africa, passing through thirty countries across Asia and Europe before reaching Morocco. The trip, expected to take several months, covers about fifty thousand kilometers. It is one of the first attempts by a Vietnamese driver to cross continents in a made in Vietnam electric car. A car built for adaptation Hais VF 7 is a standard production vehicle. Before setting off, he fitted a roof rack, rally tires and a tow cable, then added a few essentials such as charging adapters, a small generator and translation tools for unfamiliar regions. His car can travel more than four hundred kilometers on a full charge and has enough power to manage highways and mountain roads. A few weeks into the journey, he is now somewhere in China, heading west. The VF 7 already attracts attention at home in Vietnam among long distance drivers. Owners who have traveled from Hanoi to Ca Mau praise its solid handling, smooth ride and consistent performance across varied terrain. Fast charging from near empty to seventy percent takes about half an hour, which turns long trips into a sequence of short breaks rather than slow, painful stops. What makes Hais trip remarkable is how ordinary the car is. It was designed for daily life such as commuting, errands and short weekends, yet it is handling a route that stretches from Asia to Africa. Indias early look at the VF 7 India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback. One buyer in Lucknow, who is 64, cancelled his booking with another brand after realising the VF 7 simply felt better inside (1) . Plus, both the vehicle and battery warranty is generous at 10 years or 2 lakh kilometres. He took delivery in Jaipur and drove the car home to Lucknow, and during that stretch he found the VF 7 steady at speed and easy to place when overtaking, while city crawling felt calm and predictable. "I am satisfied with the car", he said after crossing the one thousand kilometre mark, addng that he gave it " 9.5 out of 10 ." The VF7 arrives just as Indias charging network begins to expand for a larger EV audience. VinFast is preparing its own ecosystem alongside this, supported by partners in each key area, such as myTVS (authorised service centres), Global Assure (roadside assistance), and banks like SBI (financing for both customers and dealers). Together these pieces form a full EV ecosystem that covers finance, home and public charging, service coverage, and the other tools needed for day to day use. What this means for Indian drivers Once more chargers appear along the major national highways, long distance EV journeys will be much easier. A normal India trip such as Bengaluru to Goa or Delhi to Nainital could eventually feel as simple as Hai Kar recharging his VF 7 on his road to Africa. Drivers will stop for chai or lunch while the car picks up enough range to continue. Hais journey continues to unfold across continents. Each update he posts is another tiny demonstration of how electric travel keeps expanding its reach. And for Indian drivers watching Hai Kars trip from afar, it hints at a future where a quiet, clean road trip from one state to another becomes an ordinary weekend plan rather than a brave experiment. About VinFast VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States. The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs. vinfastauto.in . www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IWEgZqXzOE
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced plans for a new IT city in Bidadi, citing significant international investment interest. This initiative complements the state's new IT Policy 2025-2030, which offers substantial financial incentives to encourage tech startups to relocate to tier II and III cities beyond Bengaluru, aiming for balanced economic growth across the state.
Internet Stunned by Bengaluru Scam Victims Rs 32-Crore Bank Balance
A six-month cyber con leaves a Bengaluru resident poorer by 32 crore, but social media cant get over how she had that much money in the first place.
GBA renting 46 mechanical sweepers at 613 crore for 7 years raises hackles in Bengaluru
Technical committee recommended buying vehicles, not renting
Online betting: ED raids against WinZO, Gamezkraft
The Enforcement Directorate has launched high-profile raids on multiple premises linked to WinZO and Gamezkraft, both prominent names in the online gaming industry. This crackdown is aimed at uncovering potential money laundering schemes. Officials are currently inspecting 11 sites in Delhi, Gurugram, and Bengaluru amid allegations of gaming algorithm manipulations and misuse of cryptocurrencies for laundering operations.
A Kadugodi man, BS Rajiv, was apprehended for sending a bomb threat email to BMRCL, demanding his wife not work overtime. The email, sent on November 13, threatened to blast the Metro station. Officials reported the incident, and the reportedly disturbed divorcee has been sent for mental evaluation at Nimhans.
ED raid on gaming companies in Bengaluru, Delhi and Gurugram
Some persons have filed FIRs accusing the gaming companies of manipulating the algorithm of the app, putting gamers at a disadvantage
Online betting: ED raids premises linked to WinZO, Gamezkraft
A total of 11 premises were covered in the raids, including five located in Bengaluru, four in Delhi and two in Gurugram (Haryana)
Bengaluru Man Duped Of 42.6 Lakh In Online Crypto-Trading Scam, FIR Filed
The complainant said he borrowed money from Bajaj Finance, the Axio app, friends and personal loan providers.
14 illegal PG accommodations sealed in Bengaluru, East City Corporation launches trade licence drive
466 business owners paid a combined fee of 25.52 lakh under the Single Window System and received their trade licence on the same day, without any involvement of intermediaries, according to the East City Corporation Commissioner
Sarla Aviation to invest Rs 1,300 cr in 500-acre eVTOL manufacturing campus in Andhra Pradesh
Sarla Aviation will invest Rs 1,300 crore in Andhra Pradesh to build a large manufacturing campus for electric flying taxis. This facility will produce advanced aircraft systems and support air taxi operations across South India by 2029. The project aims to create thousands of jobs and boost local aerospace manufacturing.
CISF averts knife attack at Bengaluru airport; accused held
BENGALURU: Following the high alert issued after the Delhi blast , Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel at Kempegowda International Airport averted a knife attack late on Sunday night. On November 16, around 11:59 pm, a man later identified as Sohail Ahmed was seen running toward two taxi drivers with a machete near the arrival lane of Terminal 1. Assistant Sub Inspector/Executive (ASI/Exe) Sunil Kumar, along with two on-duty CISF personnel, on noticing the incident, quickly intervened, overpowered the attacker, and secured the weapon without allowing any harm to the public, sources told the TNIE . A preliminary inquiry revealed that Ahmed and the targeted individuals, taxi drivers Jagdish JR and Renu Kumar, knew each other. During interrogation, the accused told CISF that he was assaulted by Jagdish along with two drivers, Renu Kumar and Gangadhar Angadi, on the previous night. Ahmed returned armed to attack the duo in what appears to be an act of retaliation, the sources said. The accused, along with the seized weapon and the other involved parties, were immediately handed over to the KIA Police Station for further legal action. The CISF at KIA, headed by Commandant Ravi Kumar Sharma, is on high alert after the Delhi terror blast on November 10. The prompt action on Sunday night reflected its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers, airport personnel, and critical aviation infrastructure at KIA.
Bengaluru Metro Receives Bomb Threat Email, Sender Accuses Staff Of Harassing Estranged Wife
BMRCL received an email threatening a blast at a metro station, with the sender alleging harassment of his divorced wife by metro staff.
Keralas growing artsy socks business
In Thiruvananthapuram, far from the usual global fashion circuits, a small group of friends are experimenting with socks. The project started three years ago. They never imagined how far the idea would eventually take them. Now, the project has turned into Haspo a brand that exclusively designs socks. Hapso didnt begin as a business idea at all. It grew out of an art community called Happyccino, formed five to six years ago by engineers, designers, photographers, and self-taught artists who simply wanted a space where creativity felt accessible. They gathered over coffee, small workshops, and started experimenting with wall and pebble arts. We were constantly thinking about how to bring our designs into a real, but unique, product. We tossed around a lot of ideas, but nothing felt like us. Around that time, I saw a friend receive a pair of bright, funky socks as part of a Google Local Guide reward. It caught my attention. We had never seen socks with that kind of design language here, says Vijith V S, co-founder of Hapso. So Vijith started digging deeper. Thats when I realised there was an actual business opportunity. Big brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jockey all make socks, but theres barely any innovation. The designs look exactly the same. When I brought this up with the group, the idea clicked. That conversation eventually became Hapso. Vijith, along with other co-founders Anees S S and Ananthu S B, began researching textile technology, knitting constraints, the challenges of manufacturing, etc. They discovered that India had only a handful of homegrown designer sock brands, and almost none operating in south India. Minimum order quantities were intimidating. Getting the right materials and reliable manufacturing partners took time. Still, the idea felt aligned with the collectives creative instincts, so they kept going. And two more joined the core team, Amal Dev and Nanda Gopan. Before we committed to production, we designed around forty concepts and sent the mock-ups to friends across different age groups. They ranked them by preference, and the top seven or eight became our first collection. The response was way beyond what we imagined. At a small stall at the Olam festival, we sold 500 pairs in just three days, he says. Nanda Gopan, Amal Dev, Ananthu S B, Anees S S, Vijith V S Hapsos early collections leaned into this playful spirit, with cotton socks featuring fun and expressive visuals. As they grew, the team pushed deeper into material innovation. They began working with bamboo fibre, drawn to its antimicrobial properties, comfort, and durability. This led to designs suited for athletic use, expanding their customer base to those looking for performance-oriented options. What surprised the team was that people never bought just one or two pairs. Many bought sets of four or five, mixing designs the way people collect small artworks. As Hapso expanded its catalogue from an initial eight designs to around fifty today, orders also started coming from outside India. Right now, we are already present across major e-commerce platforms. We are even exploring something that is still unusual in India a first-of-its-kind all-socks store. Its a long-term goal, but we hope to introduce the concept soon through retail showrooms in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, the founders say.
Senior Bengaluru techie's four steps to survive a bad boss in office goes viral: 'No personal talk'
A tech worker shared strategies for navigating unsupportive supervisors, emphasizing detailed task tracking and maintaining professional boundaries. Expanding your internal network and avoiding public complaints are also key. Consistent application of these methods can lead to a healthier professional experience and regain control.
Knife In Hand, Man Charges At Cabbies At Bengaluru Airport; Caught After Chase | Video
The incident took place near the arrival lane of Terminal 1, where video footage shows Ahmed running towards the taxi drivers while wielding a long knife.
Bengaluru airport knife attack: A taxi driver was apprehended at Bengaluru Airport's Terminal 1 after allegedly threatening two other drivers with a knife. CISF personnel intervened swiftly, preventing any harm. The accused, Suhail Ahmed Pyarejaan, reportedly acted in retaliation to an earlier assault. He and the weapon were handed over to KIA police for further investigation and action.
For her, philanthropy has never been about the magnitude of giving, but was about giving with a purpose
Christ University hosts two-day conference in Bengaluru
The Vande Bharat Express on the Kerala-Bengaluru route impresses passengers with clean coaches, scenic views, and quality meals. Social media users praised the modernised travel experience, while some highlighted the need for better civic awareness and maintenance along railway tracks.
Passenger climbs atop cab, creates ruckus in Bengaluru
BENGALURU: The traffic police along with the public had to restrain a man by tying his hands and legs with a plastic wire before taking him to the police station after he created ruckus by standing on top of a cab in the middle of the International Airport Road near Mehkri Circle on Monday noon. The man, identified as Santosh, also assaulted a few drivers and the traffic police who tried to calm him. He was also assaulted by a few drivers. Movement of traffic was affected for some time. Santoshs family in Mysuru had booked a cab to the airport as they were visiting a temple in a north Indian state. Enroute they picked up Santosh who is staying in the city. Santosh told the cab driver to drop them to the airport within 15 to 20 minutes as they would be missing the flight. When the cab driver told him that the travel time would not be less than an hour, Santosh started punching the driver. When the driver retaliated and parked the cab on the road side on the Airport Road near Mekhri Circle, Santosh came outside the cab and climbed on it. He started to jump on the cab, damaging the windshield in the process. Supporting the cab driver, a few other drivers pulled down Santosh and started assaulting him. When the traffic police manning the junction came to his rescue, the accused even attacked them. Enraged over his behaviour, people started beating him. He was also attacked with a helmet. An elderly lady who was with the family pleaded the assaulters to let him go. But the accused pushed her on to the main road. Unable to control him, the police with the help of the public had to lift and take him on the footpath. They eventually tied his hands and legs with a plastic wire and took him to the Sadashivanagar police station in a patrolling vehicle. Santosh was earlier working as a manager in a supermarket. He lost job six months ago. He is also said to have had a strained marital life. The police suspect that he could be mentally unstable. The video of the incident has gone viral.
Three murdered in separate incidents in Bengaluru
BENGALURU: Three people, including a 35-year-old home alone woman, have been murdered in separate cases at Bommanahalli, Chikkajala and Byadarahalli police limits. The home alone woman, who worked in a garment factory, was found dead with her throat slit at her rented house at Hongasandra in Bommanahalli police limits on Sunday night. Pramoda, the victim, hailed from Sirsi in Uttara Kannada. She lived alone after separating from her husband Suresh and two children. Two suspects have been taken into custody, according to sources. Police suspect that Pramoda might have been murdered on Saturday night. Suresh not only married Pramoda, but also her elder sister. Illicit relationship is suspected to be the reason for murder, a police officer said. Venkatesh, 65, was reportedly murdered by his wife Parvathi, 50, and her relative Rangaswamy, 60, at Manjunath Layout in Andrahalli in Byadarahalli police limits on Sunday night. The accused were arrested on Monday. Venkatesh worked as an autorickshaw driver. He left his wife 10yearsago and married Parvathi six years ago. Parvathi had been forcing Venkatesh to register his house in her name or to give her Rs 6 lakh. Venkatesh, however, agreed to pay her Rs 2.5 lakh. Rejecting his offer, she fought with him. Enraged by this, Venkatesh pushed Parvathi out of his house on the first floor. He also blocked the staircase to prevent her from enteringhis house. Meanwhile, Parvathi called her relative and fought with Venkatesh again. Parvathi and her relative assaulted Venkatesh and pushed him down. Venkatesh suffered severe head injuries and became unconscious. Parvathi and her relative continued to assault him and he succumbed to injuries later. Narayanaswamy, 55, a construction worker, was allegedly murdered by his friends son over a trivial issue. On November 11, Narayanaswamy and his friend Muni Venkatappa went to a bar,where they fought after having liquor. Venkatappa fractured his hand. Venkatappas son Ajay, who took Narayanaswamy to task, assaulted him. Narayanaswamy, who was hospitalised, succumbed to injuries on Sunday. Police have arrested Ajay.
Bengaluru's Kadalekai Parishe draws massive crowds
BENGALURU: The historic Kadalekai Parishe was inaugurated by Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy in the presence of Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya and Basavanagudi MLA Ravi Subramanya on Monday. Basavanagudis streets were packed with large crowds as hundreds of stalls opened, marking a vibrant start to the traditional groundnut fair. One of Bengalurus oldest and most visited cultural festivals, the Parishe began with the ceremonial offering of groundnuts at the Dodda Basavanna (Big Bull) and Dodda Ganapati temples. The event will continue until November 21, featuring groundnut sales, Theppotsava, music, dance and other cultural programmes. Basavanagudi was illuminated with decorative lights, and the temples were adorned with elaborate floral arrangements. The air around Bull Temple Road was filled with the smell of freshly roasted and farm-fresh groundnuts that will be sold throughout the five-day fair. After the inauguration, Ramalinga Reddy said, This years Parishe is plastic-free, and any stall using plastic will be vacated immediately. We expect five lakh visitors, with 700 police personnel, CCTV cameras, toilets and volunteers ensuring safety and cleanliness. Not a single groundnut shell should remain after the event. He added, Kadalekai Parishe is one of Bengalurus key cultural festivals, and we are also planning a temple circuit in the area. Tejasvi Surya said, I urge parents to bring their children to the Parisheshow them our stories, our culture and the essence of our traditions. In a metropolis like Bengaluru, this is one way for children to experience the charm of a village fair. JDS MLC T A Sharavana added, This is not just a groundnut sale; it is a religious observance, a farmers festival and a revival of tradition. Farmers from within and outside the state arrive with their produce, offering groundnuts to the deity as an expression of gratitude. At the Dodda Basavanna (Big Bull) and Dodda Ganapati temples in Basavanagudi on Monday. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya and Basavanagudi MLA Ravi Subramanya were present.
Passengers block doors, Bengaluru metro Yellow Line services hit
BENGALURU: Services on Namma Metros Yellow Line were delayed on Monday morning after a group of people deliberately obstructed the departure of the first train at RV Road station. The 6 am train left only at 6.35 am, causing a cascading delay across the line. The group were questioning why Yellow Line operations start at 6 am while the Green and Purple lines start at 5 am. Having reached by the Green Line, they were forced to wait for a considerable time for the Yellow Line service to begin. According to a BMRCL official, The group obstructed the automatic closure of the door by standing between the doors. The first train on the Yellow Line at RV Road Metro Station was delayed because of this, and the train left at 6.35 am instead of the scheduled 6 am, which caused delays to all following trains. To stabilise services, one train had to be short-looped at Central Silk Board. As per the Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002, such disruptions can lead to imprisonment, fines, or both. A formal complaint has been filed with the Jayanagar police station, BMRCL added.
Bengaluru South Corporation launches 20-day drive against commercial activities in residential areas
BENGALURU: Bengaluru South City Corporation Commissioner KN Ramesh on Monday launched a 20-day drive against illegal commercial activities in residential areas. The move comes in the backdrop of the Karnataka High Court, based on writ petitions (3676/2008 and 43472-43474/2011), issued guidelines restricting commercial activities in residential/semi-residential areas in all roads less than 40 feet wide. The process of verification of licences of authorised and unauthorised commercial enterprises will start from November 17 to curb commercial activities in residential areas. Senior health inspectors and health supervisors are instructed by the corporation to collect the details of all businesses coming in the prescribed wards on a daily basis and fill in the prescribed form and provide information, said Ramesh. He said senior health inspectors and health supervisors will collect information from entrepreneurs about whether businesses that have obtained a licence during the on-site inspection are running the business according to the rules and whether they are paying the correct property tax. This verification process started from today (Monday) and will continue for the next 20 days. Action will be taken to recover the revised amount as per rules from the entrepreneurs paying tax amount less than the prescribed amount and action will be taken against businesses running illegally and against zonal classification as ordered by the high court, he said.
Bengaluru corporations' commissioners ask officials to list places where stray dogs are found
BENGALURU: Following the Supreme Court direction on relocation of stray dogs from hospitals, educational institutions, playgrounds and other public places, Commissioners of all five city corporations under Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) have written to institutions and officials concerned to list out places where stray dogs are found, the number of dogs, measures taken like fencing and barricades, and nodal officers appointed. Once all these are in place, the city corporations will hasten the construction of shelters to relocate the dogs, and house them as per the SC direction, said a senior official. While corporations under GBA are taking steps to implement the Supreme Court directive, animal activists and rescuers in Bengaluru will hold a protest at Freedom Park on Tuesday over the SC order on relocation of stray dogs from institutions and public places. This order will result in an increase in stray dog bites, as once community dogs are caught and shifted to shelter homes, new ones will come to the territory, and due to anxiety and panic in new places, there are chances of fights over food. The new dogs will not be in a position to acclimatise to new sets of humans at a new place and may charge at them due to aggression. The only solution is effective implementation of Animal Birth Control (ABC) rules, said Sujatha Prasanna, an animal rights activist. Echoing similar sentiments, SP Singh, an animal rescuer, stated that dogs do not vote, hence the poor animals are being given such treatment. There is no clarity on who will run the shelters. Just for record purposes, facilities may be put up. Even if dogs are tortured and killed, there are chances of covering it up, said Singh, adding that the only focus should be strict implementation of ABC rules. The activists also raised concern against the fencing of places like bus stations, railway stations and large campuses, as dogs will find a way inside. Instead of trying to shift the already settled dogs at hospitals, schools, colleges, large campuses, railway stations and other public places, corporations should focus on identifying rabid or dangerous dogs in the first place, and bring in awareness among the public to coexist with domestic animals and care for them, said activists.
No anticipatory bail for two accused of cheating former Karnataka CM Sadananda Gowda
BENGALURU: A city civil and sessions court has refused to grant anticipatory bail to two persons accused of cheating former chief minister DV Sadananda Gowda of nearly Rs 3 lakh in September. Sriu Tenzin Pelyon, 32, of Himachal Pradesh and Yeshi Chodon, 31, from Odisha, directors of Lhakar Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Domlur, Bengaluru North, had applied for anticipatory bail. Considering the objections filed by the prosecution, Judge Gangappa Irappa Patil, 52nd Additional City Civil and Sessions Court, said that in the FIR, the names of the accused have not been mentioned. It is true that the FIR has been registered against unknown persons. Money has been transferred to the bank account of the company of the accused... At this stage, it is not a fit case to grant bail to the petitioners, he said. In his complaint filed at the North CEN crime police station, Gowda said that he had purchased a new Innova car and on September 11, he received a message purportedly from India Post stating that the Registration Certificate (RC) of his vehicle has been sent. But it did not reach him. Later, when he tried to track the speed post sent to him on the Indian Speed Post Tracking system, he received a link that sought certain details. He submitted alldetails, including the tracking ID. Subsequently, he received a WhatsApp call from cellphone No. 84******03, claiming to be from India Post courier customer care centre. The caller requested him to make a nominal payment of Rs 2 for verification of the tracking ID. Gowda tried to make the payment through PhonePe, but failed. Then, the unknown caller informed Gowda that the RC card will be sent to his residential address. Gowda stated that when he checked his savings accounts withSBI, Axis Bank and HDFC banks around 9am on September 17, he found that Rs 2,85,999 had been withdrawn without his knowledge. Meanwhile, the investigation took theCEN police to the accuseds company. Fearing their arrest, the accused approached the court for anticipatory bail.Claiming that they haveno role in the crime, the accused said the bank account of their company has been wrongly and inadvertently linked to the offence, despite having no transaction or monetary link with the accounts of Gowda. Neither their company nor its directors used the cell phone No. 84******03, they claimed. The public prosecutor filed objections stating that the investigation is pending and the police are yet to file the chargesheet. If the petitioners are granted anticipatory bail, their presence cannot be secured easily. Further, the petitioners are from other states, though they work in Bengaluru. If they are granted anticipatorybail, they may tamper with witnesses and hamper the investigation.
Bengaluru MLAs complain of contractors delaying projects
BENGALURU: Bengalurus crumbling roads have sparked a fierce face-off -- not between the ruling and opposition parties, but between elected representatives and citys contractors. From Shivajinagar to Rajajinagar to Yeshwanthpur, MLAs are venting frustration, alleging that contractors are holding the city hostage with delays, inefficiency and unresponsiveness. Shivajinagar MLA Rizwan Arshad accused the contractor handling the Narayan Pillai Street whitetopping work of abandoning the project for nearly six months. The road is a critical link between St Johns Road, Coles Park, and Commercial Street. I have been gently reminding the contractor to finish the work, Arshad said. If I push too firmly, it should not become difficult, he said, adding, many contractors are the root cause of Bengalurus stalled infrastructure works. In Rajajinagar, senior BJP MLA and former minister Suresh Kumar complained about white-topping work on Dr Rajkumar Road, one of the citys busiest stretches. This road connects Bengaluru to Kittur Karnataka, Kalyana Karnataka and coastal Karnataka. Nearly 4,000 KSRTC buses and thousands of other vehicles use it daily. The project was handed to Ocean Constructions, which had no background in such works. I escalated the issue to the Greater Bengaluru authorities, with a meeting scheduled with the additional commissioner. If there is still no action, I may have to sit on a dharna, he added. Yeshwanthpur MLA ST Somashekar is battling a similar crisis. He said, The work on two key stretches -- Mylasandra Main Road and Kodipalya Main Road -- have been stuck for nearly two years despite a Rs 50 crore contract awarded to a contractor, Hidayatullah. In spite of repeatedly reminding him and BBMP officials, there is no progress. He has escalated the matter to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who has instructed authorities to push the work. But with no movement on the ground, Somashekar too is contemplating a dharna.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is pushing for a cabinet reshuffle in November. However, the Congress high command in Delhi appears to favor maintaining the current government structure. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar is reportedly against any changes, fearing it could impact his political future. Supporters of both leaders are actively lobbying in Delhi.
After 40-day futile search for missing father, Bengaluru man leaves Kochi
KOCHI: After nearly 40 days of relentless search for Suraj Lama a Bengaluru resident who went missing in Kochi soon after being deported from Kuwait across every corner of the city, from crowded streets to quiet bylanes and almost every shortcut in between, his son Santon finally returned to Bengaluru late on Saturday. The junior Lama, known among friends and colleagues as Sunny, ended his final search along the inner routes of Aluva and Kalamassery on his rented bike, before quietly handing it back to its owners and leaving Kochi. Santon, though, is still holding on to a fragile hope of a call about his missing father. Something in my mind kept saying I should stay longer in Kochi, that my father was somewhere just within reach. But I had almost run out of money, and I needed to return to take care of my mother the only person I have left in this world, Santon told TNIE. As days went by with no progress from my search or the authorities, I told the police, my advocates, and the migrant worker friends who helped me that I am returning to Bengaluru. But I will remain just a phone call away because I still believe a positive call could come any moment, he said. He said, as the only son, he had to search for his father while also being mindful of his mother, who remains hopeful of Surajs return. Im going through a phase that most people cant even imagine, said Santon, his voice heavy with anguish. Expressing gratitude to his company and colleagues in Bengaluru, where he works as a marketing and SEO professional for Google Ads, Santon said, I could continue my search only because of the incredible support from my team. They helped me in so many ways, and I cant thank them enough. But I dont want to burden them any further, so Ive decided to rejoin the team this week. At the same time, he said none of the authorities concerned, including embassy and airport officials, gave a proper response regarding his fathers disappearance. The 59-year-old Suraj Lama, who had spent nearly 30 years in Kuwait running a restaurant, had landed at the Kochi airport on October 5, reportedly deported due to memory loss caused by methanol poisoning. But he went missing on October 10 after the police had admitted him to the Government Medical College Hospital in Kalamassery.
Karnataka wildlife crisis: 31 of 38 blackbucks dead as deadly infection ravages Belagavi zoo
Karnataka's zoos are enhancing vigilance after 31 blackbucks died, suspected to be from haemorrhagic septicaemia. Authorities have directed zoos to strengthen biosecurity, isolate affected animals, and implement immediate carcass disposal and quarantine measures to prevent further outbreaks.
Living Unfiltered: Aparna Piramal on navigating bipolar disorder & breaking wellbeing taboos
Not good for my mental health! Period! Its the kind of blunt honesty that defines Gen Z, a generation unafraid to call out what drains them. Today, the conversation around mental health has stepped out of the shadows, becoming clearer and far more compassionate. And among the voices helping shape this shift is facilitator, educator and bestselling author Aparna Piramal, whose work urges people to look inward with the same fearlessness. She recently spoke at Manotsava and the Bengaluru launch of the book Homecoming: Mental Health Journeys of Resilience, Healing and Wholeness, which features her essay. The author describes the conversations as transformative.Manotsava is really the Davos of the Indian mental health ecosystem. Its good for the entire Indian ecosystem to come together and learn from each other, she says, in a chat with CE , highlighting the need for inclusive, nationwide dialogue. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2013, Piramal found solace in writing. Writing is therapeutic for me, its my way of making sense of my inner landscape, she reflects. It was a piece written in 2014, 10 Things Ive Learnt About Being Bipolar , that first sparked the idea for her memoir. She was determined to write a book that chronicled her experience and resonated with others on a similar path. The process, however, was not without its challenges. I kept having mood swings and was not able to get the distance I needed from my thoughts and emotions to write the book. That was the hardest part... being detached enough to write about it objectively so that it could actually help readers, she explains. But as the world came to a halt during the lockdown, Piramal found the space and clarity she had long sought. It gave me a lot of purpose during a moment of great uncertainty and flux, she says, marking the moment when Chemical Khichdi was finally completed and published in 2022.Since its release, the memoir has propelled her into a new professional identity as a national mental health advocate, who has spoken at over 150 events.For Piramal, the books most rewarding impact has been the way it has inspired others to share their own stories. She is particularly proud of her contribution to Homecoming, featuring the stories of ten remarkable women. Such publication can really shape and impact the Indian mental health ecosystem, she says. Aparna Piramal Living with bipolar disorder is often characterised by extremes, but for Piramal, the gift of stability has been profound. I still experience emotional ups and downs, but they are far less extreme. I havent had mania or depression in the last seven to eight years, she reveals. She has learned to embrace the peace that comes with balance, realising that happiness does not lie in the high, a tough lesson to learn, according to her. For those who may not fully grasp what bipolar disorder feels like, Piramal offers a grounding perspective. I wish they knew that its a serious mental health condition, but that it can be managed, its not a life sentence, and in fact, can be a source of great inner illumination. Its been a guru to me, she says. Piramal describes bipolarity as a condition where moods and energy levels shift dramatically. I could be thinking that Im the greatest gift from God to this planet and a few weeks later Im convinced that Im totally worthless. These extremes do not occur every day. They may unfold over a few weeks in a year and are followed by long periods of stability. Piramals advocacy extends to the workplace as well. I think workplaces dont truly believe that we can be both high-performing and people-oriented, so its more of a surface-level conversation at the moment,she notes, though she remains optimistic about the growing emphasis on well-being in organisational culture. For those hesitant to share their mental health stories, she advises clarity. Be clear as to why you want to write about mental health and what you want to share or do not want to share. Draw those boundaries clearly, she suggests.
Volume Down, Vibe Up! Silent Disco catching on in Bengaluru
After watching Anushka Sharma in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil or Alia Bhatt in Dear Zindagi headphones on and vibing in a crowded disco party, did you ever wish to be like them and become fully immersed in your own music world while soaking in the energy of a crowd? An emerging trend in the city is making this dream a reality, offering music lovers a novel way to enjoy live performances. Unlike typical club nights or concerts where speakers blast tunes for everyone to hear, silent discos provide wireless headphones, letting party-goers choose their own music and become immersed in a highly personalised sound experience. Why so silent? Although the concept remains relatively new in India, it has been popular globally for years. One of the early organisers of silent discos in Bengaluru, Surbhi Tiwari at Fusion Beats Silent Disco sheds light on her journey. Almost a decade ago, my parents, who are wedding planners in Indore, encountered a regulation that prohibited loud music past 10pm. Around the same time, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil was released, and we saw the concept of a silent disco featured in the movies Breakup Song . That got us curious. When we researched, we got to know its a very popular concept outside India, she explains. For musician and sound engineer Abhi Tambe, silent performances are not just a workaround to noise restrictions but the heart of his evolving performance language as evident in his solo performance that fuses theatre, sound art and live music, titled Portal Waiting . I need headphones because they provide such an immersive experience. Its a love letter to sound, he shares. In his show, the audience is transported through layered soundscapes like forests, voices, wind and many imagined characters. I couldnt do it on speakers, it just wouldnt be quite as powerful, he explains, adding, You can carefully control whats on the left and on the right and make it sound really realistic and immersive. An attendee at Tambes concert, Prerna Kaul found her first silent disco experience transformative in a different way. I was immediately drawn into the energy of the space There was an invisible pulse in the air, she recalls. Unlike a regular club, where noise fills the room, the silence outside the headphones sharpens the connection inside. Its definitely more intimate. I felt like the performance was curated for me. How does it work? A peek into a silent disco event organised by Fusion Beats - Silent Disco Silent discos offer something regular clubs cant, which is complete control of listening choice with listeners switching between multiple channels using the headphones controls. You can have four to eight DJs playing simultaneously and tune into whoever you want. Its your creativity at the end of the day, notes sound engineer Vinod Kumar Naidu, founder of Ampersound Productions, which also specialises in headphones rental for events. He adds that this offers a uniquely communal experience, saying, When the sound is lowered, you can hear almost nothing but feel the anticipation and excitement in the air underneath the silence. It felt like a collective experience where everyone was plugged into the same performance, moving together. Beyond just parties Beyond discos and parties, these silent events have started to include theatre performances, corporate conferences, music therapy sessions and more, facilitated through these multi-channel headphones. Naidu says, The possibilities are endless with these headphones we are even collaborating with mental health practitioners to help Parkinsons patients using music therapy, he shares, adding, Next month were planning events with breathing exercises, meditation and musical instruments. Giving an intimate experience, the no noise policy of such parties also means the party doesnt wage war with its surroundings, minimising logistical challenges that come with hosting parties. There is no noise pollution so people who are sitting outside dont get disturbed, says Tiwari. Naidu adds, Compared to a typical sound system, which needs massive power and many speakers, this is also cost-effective.
Metro passengers stand between coach doors, disrupt Yellow Line services in Bengaluru
Extending Bengaluru Metro to Tumakuru is costly, slow and pointless, say experts
Traffic stops on Bengalurus Ballari Road as man dances on cab
Bihar polls done, pressure mounts on BJP brass to decide on Vijayendras continuance as state prez
Siddaramaiah seeks PM Modis intervention on release of JJM funds, Mekedatu dam project
