Crackdown in Chennai as police detain student activists and CJP cadres over anti-SIR protest
The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027 roadshow in Chennai focused on investment, technology partnerships, and industrial collaboration. Gujarats Vibrant Global Summit 2027 Roadshow Highlights Investment and Industrial Collaboration in Chennai
DRA picks Pune for first expansion beyond Chennai
Developer eyes larger market and higher sales opportunity; targets 1% share in Pune within three to four years
YouTuber Arrested Over Financial Creator's Suicide
YouTuber Jason Samuel Vijayakumar has been arrested in Chennai for allegedly abetting the suicide of financial content creator V Harish. Harish, who ran Finance with Harish with 1.3 million followers, reportedly faced cyberbullying and defamatory videos from Vijayakumar, leading to mental distress and his death by suicide on October 20, 2026. Vijayakumar denies the allegations, claiming he acted in consumer interest by questioning Harish's lack of a SEBI-registered license.
Commuters welcome introduction of AC suburban train services at Arakkonam
They say that the air-conditioned train services would help in comfortabe travel as Arakkonam and surrounding areas witness extreme heat during summer; the train will leave at 8 a.m. from Arakkonam and arrive at Chennai Central at 9.30 a.m.
Suriya's 'Scene' update: Naslen plays a character called Eswaran
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 22 (IANS) The makers of director Jithu Madhavan's eagerly awaited Tamil film 'Scene', featuring actor Suriya in the lead, on Thursday revealed that actor Naslen plays a character called Eswaran in the upcoming action entertainer. Taking to its X timeline to share the first look poster of Naslen from the film, Zhagaram Studios, which is producing the film, wrote, A #SCENE -ic Entry! Introducing @naslenofficial as Eswaran and hes here to turn heads! Worldwide In cinemas from November 6! #DiwaliRelease. The film has triggered huge excitement among fans and film buffs ever since the makers released the film's title teaser. The title teaser opened with a voiceover saying, You guys keep showcasing his talent to hide and mask his despicable character. The teaser then showed Suriya arriving on a scene of crime, dressed as a cop. Who killed whom?, he asks a constable, who replies, You are here to find that out. The teaser next showed a jail warden warning inmates about Suriya, who plays a character called Inbaraj. When suspects see Inbaraj sir, they start behaving in an erratic fashion, he says and is seen issuing a warning to prisoners while asking them to get back into their cells. No one should step outside. Inbaraj sir is coming. The teaser also made it evident that the film would have some really good punchlines. A case in point is when Suriya tells a prisoner, Take a good look at my face. To you, I might be the only cop to have ever arrested you. But to me, you are one among the 900 odd criminals I've locked up in prison. For the unaware, the film went on floors with a traditional pooja here in the city in December last year. The film, which has been produced by Zhagaram Studios, was initially being referred to as Suriya 47. Scene has been one of the most anticipated projects of the year, with fans and audiences showing immense curiosity and excitement ever since the collaboration between Suriya and Jithu Madhavan first came into discussion. Actor Suriya plays the lead in the film with Nazriya Nazim playing the female lead. Naslen, who has gained attention with multiple successful outings, plays an important role in this film, which will also feature actors John Vijay, and Anandaraj among others. The film boasts of a sound technical team. Cinematography for the film is by Vineeth Augustian while music is by Sushin Shyam. The film has production design by Ashwini Kale, editing by Ajmal Sabu and stunts by Chethan D Souza.
According to the 16-year-old survivors statement, she was taken from Andhra Pradesh to Bengaluru and then to Chennai before being brought to Keralam
CPCL JEA Admit Card 2026 Out - Download Junior Engineering Assistant Hall Ticket at cpcl.co.in
CPCL Junior Engineering Assistant Admit Card 2026 has released on 21 October for 60 Junior Engineering Assistant-IV vacancies under Advertisement No. 01/2026. Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited will conduct the Computer-Based Test on 31 October 2026 in Chennai.
US visitor visa wait hits 12 months in India
Indian applicants seeking US business and tourist visas may have to wait up to 12 months for the next available interview appointment in Mumbai. Hyderabad follows with a 10.5-month wait, while New Delhi has an estimated wait of 11 months, according to the departments Global Visa Wait Times update dated October 21.Kolkata applicants face an estimated 8.5-month wait for the next available appointment, while Chennai has a 7.5-month wait. Mumbai also records the highest average wait time among the five cities at 12.5 months, measured from visa fee payment to the interview date in the previous month.Also Read: Australias new arrival control law raises questions for students and workers returning homeThe waiting period varies considerably by visa category. Applicants seeking student and exchange visitor visas generally face shorter queues, while appointment availability for petition-based work visas differs across consular posts.City-wise US visa appointment wait timesIndian cityVisitor visa (B1/B2): Average waitNext available visitor visa slotStudent/exchange visa (F, M, J)Petition-based work visa (H, L, O, P, Q)Mumbai12.5 months12 months4 months2 monthsHyderabad10.5 months10.5 months1 month6.5 monthsNew Delhi7 months11 months3 months3.5 monthsKolkata8.5 months8.5 months2.5 months1 monthChennai7.5 months7.5 months3.5 months2.5 monthsSource: US Department of State, Global Visa Wait Times, updated October 21, 2026.Student visa slots available soonerThe data shows that applicants seeking F, M and J visas, which cover student and exchange visitor categories, generally face shorter waits than visitor visa applicants.Also Read: Norway named best among National Geographic's world travel map for 2027; Indian city among the topHyderabad has the shortest estimated wait in this category at one month, followed by Kolkata at 2.5 months. New Delhi applicants face a three-month wait, while Chennai and Mumbai have estimated waits of 3.5 months and four months, respectively.For petition-based visas, including H, L, O, P and Q categories, Kolkata has the shortest estimated wait at one month. Mumbai follows at two months, while Chennai and New Delhi have waits of 2.5 months and 3.5 months, respectively. Hyderabad has the longest wait in this category at 6.5 months.The figures cover grouped visa categories and should not be interpreted as separate estimates for individual classifications such as H-1B or L-1 visas.Although, the state department cautions that these estimates do not guarantee an appointment within a specified period. Embassies and consulates release additional slots regularly, and applicants who have already scheduled interviews can check the appointment system for earlier dates.The published estimates also exclude appointments for applicants who qualify for an in-person interview waiver. Applicants are advised to check the relevant US embassy or consulate website for updated availability and appointment instructions.
Anbumani seeks demolition of retaining wall and walkway being built in Pallikaranai Marsh
The PMK president says these structures had obstructed rainwater flow and caused flooding at Pallikaranai and Jalladianpet, where the stagnant rainwater had to be pumped into the marsh
VITEEE Exam Date 2027 - Check Schedule, Admit Card
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) has announced the tentative VITEEE 2027 examination window from 27 April to 2 May 2027 for B.Tech admissions at its Vellore, Chennai, AP and Bhopal campuses. The online application process started on 20 October 2026, and candidates can apply until 31 March 2027. Admit cards are tentatively scheduled for 2530 April.
Jason Samuel Arrested Over V Harish's Death After Father's Cyberbullying Complaint
Chennai Police have arrested YouTuber Jason Samuel in connection with the death of finance influencer V Harish.
Ranbir Kapoor Apologises for Dussehra Speech Slip-Up as Ramayana Ticket Prices Spark Debate
Ranbir Kapoor apologised after a verbal slip-up during a Dussehra event in Kolkata sparked social media backlash. The actor clarified his intended message at the Ramayana musical event in Chennai and quoted a line from Rockstar while expressing regret. Meanwhile, producer Dil Raju also mistakenly referred to Ranbir as Ranveer Singh at a promotional event. Adding to the buzz, Ramayana: The Rise of a Legend has attracted attention over premium ticket prices, with Mumbai recliner seats reportedly costing up to 3,170, as advance bookings gather pace ahead of its November 5, 2026 release.
Compassion and care should be part of trauma treatment: Tamil Nadu Speaker
J.C.D. Prabhakar said respecting the rules of the road, wearing a helmet, and refraining from drinking alcohol before driving could protect not just our lives, but the lives of others as well
Jharkhand's Shikhar Mohan To Join India A Team From Second Game Of New Zealand Tour
MA Chidambaram Stadium: Jharkhands left-handed batter Shikhar Mohan will link up with the India A side from the second four-day game of their tour of New Zealand. India A will open their three-match four-day series against New Zealand A in Lincoln on October 24. The second game will be played at the Hagley Oval before the tour wraps up in Lincoln on November 7. He will be there with the India A team from the second game onwards. Some changes are expected to be made to the India A team due to a few players being a part of the ODI series against New Zealand. So, for now Shikhar will be there with the India A side from the second game onwards, a source familiar with the development said to IANS on Thursday. KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj, both part of the India A set-up, have been named for the first three ODIs. Meanwhile, Auqib Nabi and Kumar Kushagra have been picked for the last two games of the five-match series. Shikhars call-up to India A team caps a rapid rise for him since he made his senior debut barely a year ago. Mohan has been in prolific form for Jharkhand in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, hammering 143 against Kerala before following it up with scores of 27 and 127 against Maharashtra in Pune in the second round of the competition. He had also made a strong impression on his Duleep Trophy debut, scoring twin fifties for East Zone in the final against South Zone and playing a vital role in his side's title triumph at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Earlier this month, Shikhar struck 60 in the first innings for Rest of India in their Irani Cup win over Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar. Born in Ranchi in May 2005, Mohan honed his skills at the Ranchi Cricket Academy and went on to represent Jharkhand at the Under-16, Under-19 and Under-23 levels before making his senior debut at 20, in a Ranji Trophy game against Tamil Nadu in Coimbatore in October last year. He had also made a strong impression on his Duleep Trophy debut, scoring twin fifties for East Zone in the final against South Zone and playing a vital role in his side's title triumph at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Tamil Nadu School Holiday Today: Latest Updates for Chennai and Districts (Oct 22)
Are schools open in Tamil Nadu today? Get the latest October 22 updates for Chennai, Tiruvallur, and other districts. Check the current status for rain holidays and local festival closures to plan your morning commute safely.
Todays Gold Rate in India October 22: Gold prices down in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across metro cities on October 22
Gold rate today: Gold prices for 22k jewellery decreased in various cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. The India Bullion and Jewellers Association announced lower indicative rates for gold and silver.
It's A Gamble: AR Rahman Says He Understands The Pressure On Ramayana Producer Namit Malhotra
At the Ramayana event in Chennai, AR Rahman also recalled watching the OG Ramayan during his school days.
Vivaan Dave clinches double gold at Gujarat State Table Tennis Championships
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 22 (IANS) Fourteen-year-old table tennis player Vivaan Dave, who is part of Adani Sportslines Garv Hai athlete roster, clinched titles in the Under-17 and Under-19 categories at the Gujarat State Table Tennis Championships 2026, held in Gandhidham from October 16 to 20, adding another milestone to his growing career. Competing against older opponents, Vivaan demonstrated his ability to perform beyond his age group to secure the double gold. He was previously ranked No. 2 in India in the Under-15 category and has continued to build on his performances across domestic and international competitions. Earlier this year, Vivaan won gold in the Under-17 category at the UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championship in Kanpur. On the international circuit, he secured silver in the Under-15 category at the WTT Youth Contender in Ulaanbaatar before claiming bronze in the same category at the WTT Youth Contender in Tashkent. His achievements also include a double-gold performance at the UTT 87th Inter-State Sub-Junior and Cadet National Table Tennis Championships in 2025, where he won the Under-15 individual and team titles. Having started playing table tennis at the age of five, Vivaan has set his sights on representing India at the Olympics and winning gold for the country. Through its Garv Hai initiative, Adani Sportsline supports his development by providing table tennis kits and equipment and facilitating travel to competitions, enabling him to focus on training and performance. He has been associated with the initiative since August 1, 2026. Reflecting on his latest achievement and the support he has received, Vivaan said, Winning gold in both the U17 and U19 categories at the state championships is a proud moment for me. I was playing against older and more experienced players, so every match was a good test and I learned a lot from it. I started playing table tennis when I was five, and my dream has always been to play for India at the Olympics and win a gold medal for my country. Adani Sportsline has helped me with sourcing my kit, equipment and facilitating my travel, this allows me to focus completely on my training and performance, Vivaan will next compete at the WTT Youth Contender Chennai, scheduled from October 23 to 26, before turning his attention to the National Ranking Table Tennis Championship in Punjab later this year.
AR Rahman recalls receiving an unusual email in 2014 about Ramayana
At the film's album launch in Chennai on October 21, AR Rahman recalled recieving an email over a decade ago from a man who claimed to have dreamt of him composing music for the mythological saga.
Jo Bhi Main Kehna Chahu: Ranbir Kapoor Uses Rockstar Lyrics to Apologise For Dussehra Speech Gaffe
Ranbir Kapoor apologises for his slip of the tongue at a Dussehra event in Kolkata and clarifies his statement at the Ramayana album launch in Chennai.
Q2 results today: Adani Energy, Havells, HPCL, Swiggy, 57 more on Oct 22
Q2FY27 company results: Firms including Adani Total Gas, Colgate Palmolive (India), Chennai Petroleum Corporation, Jindal Stainless, and Cyient are also to release their July-September earnings today
Chennai metro phase 2 services to start at 6am from tomorrow
Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Rakul Preet Singh, Ravie Dubey, producer Namit Malhotra, director Nitesh Tiwari and music maestro A R Rahman attended the grand musical event of their upcoming film Ramayana in Chennai. A R Rahman mesmerized the audience by performing songs from the film. However, one of the highlights of the evening was Rakul Preet Singhs praise for Ranbir Kapoor and his portrayal of Lord Rama. Rakul said, I am so, so happy to be here. I am going to keep it very sweet and short. I am going to begin by thanking the visionary, Namit sir. We need a bigger round of applause for someone who has been dreaming of this film for the last 10 years. You need a huge heart, guts and a mind which is very differently wired to be able to create a film and to envision a film that India can showcase to the world and say, This is our history. This is our truth. So, thank you so much, sir. None of us would have been here without you. She added, I hope all of you watch and enjoy the film. The performances are amazing. Ranbir as Lord Rama is magical. After this film, every time you think of Lord Rama, I really think that you will see Ranbir. Thats the kind of portrayal he has done. She then praised Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey, Sai as Sita is again beautiful. Shes a phenomenal actor. She has essayed the part with a lot of purity and rootedness. Shes a delight to watch on screen. There couldnt have been a better Lakshman than Ravie at all. Rakul Preet Singh further said, Lastly, as for Yash, he is magical on screen. I dont know how its humanly possible for a person like him to portray a role like that with so much conviction. Its unreal. So, you have to see it on the big screen to witness the magic. I really hope you all like the film and believe in the vision that we have tried to create. Ramayana releases in cinemas worldwide on November 5. Also Read: Ramayana Chennai event: Ranbir Kapoor apologizes for achhai-burai slip of tongue; says Jo bhi main kehna chahoon, barbaad karein alfaaz mere!
In Big Test For Vijay, CJP Announces SIR Protest Despite Chennai Cops' Denial
The CJP's anti-SIR protest, dubbed Chennai's Jantar Mantar 2.0, is scheduled to begin at 4 pm this evening near Rajarathinam Stadium in Egmore and continue until 4 pm tomorrow.
VITEEE 2027 Applications Open, Entrance Exam From April 28
Vellore: The Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) has opened applications for the VIT Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE) 2027, inviting aspiring engineers to apply for admission to its undergraduate engineering programmes. According to a press release, candidates can apply online through the official website, [viteee.vit.ac.in](https://viteee.vit.ac.in), for programmes offered at VIT campuses in Vellore and Chennai [] The post VITEEE 2027 Applications Open, Entrance Exam From April 28 appeared first on Northlines .
Northeast Indian grocery stores bring a taste of home to Chennai
From Velachery to Choolaimedu, a growing number of Northeast Indian grocery stores are helping the citys migrant community stay connected to home, stocking ingredients such as mustard leaves and fermented bamboo shoots, while introducing locals to the regions diverse food cultures
Bird Flu Confirmed at Vandalur Zoo, Entry Closed for Two Days
Bird flu has been confirmed at Vandalur Zoo in Chennai, leading to a two-day closure for public entry to prevent the spread. Bird Flu Confirmed at Vandalur Zoo, Entry Closed for Two Days
Due to anticipated heavy rainfall, Thoothukudi district and Puducherry will see school closures. The district administration has announced holidays in light of ongoing rain. Fishermen are cautioned against sea ventures until conditions improve. The India Meteorological Department predicts widespread storms and gusty winds in Tamil Nadu, advising the community to remain vigilant this week.
Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Rakul Preet Singh, Ravie Dubey, producer Namit Malhotra, director Nitesh Tiwari and music maestro A R Rahman attended the musical event for their film Ramayana in Chennai. A R Rahman performed to the songs of the film and mesmerized the audience. Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor clarified the goof-up he made the day before at a Dussehra event held in Kolkata as part of Ramayana promotions. At this event, Ranbir Kapoor mistakenly said, Burai chahe kitne bhi taaqatwar kyun na ho, aakhir mein anth sacchai aur acchaai ki hi hogi. The video went viral on social media, leading to a lot of trolling. Ranbir Kapoor began by saying, Vanakkam, Chennai! Thank you for this love and energy. We really feel welcomed by all you beautiful people. Ramayana is a story that connects all of us through love, faith and our culture. I have had the privilege of working with the maestro, Mr Rahman, on two of my films (Rockstar and Tamasha). And both have been really special to me. But sir, this opportunity will be remembered forever. Its really an opportunity of a lifetime to collaborate with you on this film. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Hungama (@realbollywoodhungama) He then said, I would like to take this opportunity to apologize for an incident that happened yesterday. I was at a Dussehra event and I had a slip of tongue. What I meant to say is Burai chahe kitne bhi taaqatwar kyun na ho, aakhir mein jeet sachhai aur achhai ki hi hogi. So, this reminds me of a collaboration that I had with Rahman sir in Rockstar Jo bhi main kehna chahoon, barbaad karein alfaaz mere! So, I truly apologize for that (smiles). Ramayana releases in cinemas worldwide on November 5. Also Read: Ramayana: Part 1 tax-free in West Bengal: CM confirms exemption for Ranbir Kapoor starrer
Trump says Google CEO Pichai dropped American Ocean idea
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 22 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has said he spoke to Indian-American Google CEO Sundar Pichai about renaming the Atlantic Ocean on Google Maps, but was told that oceans were different because they cover a lot of countries, as he riffed at a midterm rally in South Carolina about renaming the Gulf of Mexico and the Strait of Hormuz. So we seriously looked at the Atlantic Ocean, and I called Google Maps, who were really great with the lake, Trump told supporters at Clemson on Wednesday evening. And I spoke to a brilliant guy, Sundar. He heads all of Google. Hes a brilliant guy. Sergei and Sundar, totally brilliant guys, he said, apparently referring to Google co-founder Sergey Brin. And, you know, theyre still rattled from the Gulf. And I said, Sundar, Im thinking of the Atlantic Ocean. Can you handle it? Trump said, recounting that Pichai replied: Oceans a difference, sir. You know, they cover a lot of They cover really a lot of countries. Please dont ask us to do that. So Ill probably pass. Should I pass? I think lets keep it the Atlantic Ocean, right? Trump said, before turning to the Pacific: Were going to call it the American Ocean. How do you think Europe would fit? Trump said the only oceans he would consider were the Atlantic and the Pacific. Im not going to put either Trump or America on any other ocean, but these two, he said. Minutes earlier, speaking about the war with Iran, Trump said: We have a blockade on the Trump Strait. I call it the Trump Strait. How do you think the Arabs would like to be calling it? I mean, we changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico. Why cant we change this he said. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of the worlds seaborne oil passes, has been at the centre of US-Iran tensions. Trump told the rally that the US had obliterated Irans nuclear enrichment capacity with Operation Midnight Hammer and Operation Epic Fury, and that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. He also said oil prices will soon plummet. Trump renamed the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America by executive order shortly after taking office in January 2025, and Google Maps began displaying the new name for US users weeks later. He told the rally he had also recently renamed a lake Lake America. Pichai, born in Chennai, has met Trump several times. He attended Trumps January 2025 inauguration along with other tech leaders and was among the executives at a White House dinner for technology CEOs in September 2025, where he discussed Googles US investments. Trump has also hosted other Indian-American tech chiefs, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, at the White House. The rally had its lighter moments. Trump said First Lady Melania Trump also hates me dancing, adding that she had told him: Darling, please, dont dance. Youre the President of the United States. Its not presidential. Earlier, after a heckler was removed, Trump praised a supporter who appeared to punch the man. Who is the guy that threw that punch? he asked. It takes courage to do that in a Trump rally. He got whacked. The rally, at Clemsons T. Ed Garrison Arena, was part of Trumps campaigning ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
In Puducherry, Catamaran Brewing Cos Oktoberfest 2026 offers beer Olympics and white stout
Puducherrys Catamaran Brewing Companys sixth Oktoberfest is here with a beer olympics, featuring German-style mrzen and weizenbock, a coffee-inspired White Stout, non-alcoholic IPA Dot and beer pong. Strap in. We are going for a ride
TNPDCL issues monsoon safety guidelines to prevent electrical accidents
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 22 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) has issued safety guidelines for residents and electricity workers during the northeast monsoon, warning that heavy rain, strong winds and lightning could cause electrical leakage, serious accidents and fatalities. The corporation urged people to keep away from electric poles, transformers, distribution boxes, power lines and stay wires, and avoid wading through stagnant rainwater near electrical installations. Snapped wires lying on roads or in water must never be touched or removed. Residents should maintain a safe distance, warn others, particularly children, and immediately inform the electricity department. Tree branches touching power lines should also be handled only by authorised personnel. During thunderstorms, people should seek shelter inside safe buildings and avoid open spaces, isolated trees, electric poles and overhead wires. They should stay away from open windows and metal grills and avoid using electrical appliances and telephones during lightning. Households have been advised against operating appliances with wet hands or touching damp switches and walls affected by water leakage. If electrical leakage is suspected, the supply should be disconnected only when it is safe. TNPDCL cautioned against tying cattle to poles or wires, drying clothes on wires, or using electrical infrastructure to support banners and temporary structures. Residents should engage qualified electricians to install Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) and periodically inspect household wiring and protective devices. However, RCCBs cannot provide complete protection without proper insulation. Complaints about outages, snapped wires, leakage or damaged infrastructure can be reported to Minnagam on 94987 94987 through phone calls or WhatsApp. For employees, TNPDCL stressed that repairs must begin only after obtaining permission, confirming disconnection of supply and completing prescribed safety measures, including earthing. Helmets, insulating gloves, safety footwear and safety belts must be used. Waterlogged locations require a safety inspection before work begins. Hazardous sites must be barricaded and marked with warning signs to prevent unauthorised public access. Field teams should promptly attend to snapped wires, leaning poles, damaged transformers and branches obstructing lines. Priority must be given to restoring electricity to drinking water installations, hospitals, telecommunications facilities and crowded public places. Staff should keep equipment, protective gear, vehicles and replacement materials ready. Hazardous work during severe weather must be avoided, and emergency repairs undertaken only after ensuring personnel safety and coordination among teams, TNPDCL said.
Bird flu confirms at TN's Vandalur zoo; public entry suspended for two days
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 22 (IANS) The Arignar Anna Zoological Park at Vandalur on Chennais outskirts has suspended public entry for two days after H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed among its aquatic birds, prompting disinfection work and tighter biosecurity measures. The zoo administration announced that visitors would not be allowed into the park on Thursday and Friday as preventive measures were being implemented to contain the infection. The presence of the virus was confirmed through a report from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The findings established that aquatic birds housed at the zoo had contracted H5N1, the virus responsible for the bird flu outbreak. Following the confirmation, authorities began cleaning and disinfecting areas where birds are kept. The park administration said biosecurity measures had been intensified to prevent the infection from spreading. The temporary suspension of public access comes as the zoo carries out these containment measures. The announcement applies to entry into the park as a whole, rather than access only to the bird enclosures. Spread across approximately 1,260 acres, the Vandalur zoo is one of Chennais major recreational destinations and attracts several lakh visitors annually. Its extensive grounds house thousands of animals and birds belonging to more than 150 species. Apart from its bird collection, the park accommodates a wide range of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes and tortoises. Its varied collection makes it a popular destination for families, tourists and others interested in observing wildlife. The zoo also offers visitors opportunities to view animals such as lions and tigers from protected vehicles. These facilities are among the attractions that draw large numbers of people to the park each year. The confirmation of infection among aquatic birds has brought immediate focus to sanitation in the bird housing areas and the strengthening of measures intended to protect the zoos animal collection. For now, the administrations response centres on disinfection, cleaning and enhanced biosecurity, alongside the two-day restriction on visitors. The closure announcement gives the public notice to defer visits scheduled for Thursday and Friday. The information released did not specify how many aquatic birds had tested positive or whether any birds had died. It also did not provide further details about the circumstances in which the infection was detected or the sampling process that preceded laboratory confirmation.
TN: Forecast for heavy rain, rough sea conditions; five districts declare holiday for schools today
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 22 (IANS) Schools in five Tamil Nadu districts were closed on Thursday as persistent heavy rain affected southern parts of the state, while a low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal raised the prospect of further widespread rainfall. The District Collectors of Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Kanniyakumari and Thoothukudi declared holidays for schools following continued downpours. Tirupattur District Collector Nallasivan also ordered the closure of schools in his district because of heavy rain. The holiday announcements apply only to schools. The information provided did not mention any corresponding closure of colleges or other higher educational institutions in the five districts. According to the meteorological department, a low-pressure area has formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal near Sri Lanka, off the Tamil Nadu coast. The system is likely to move west-northwestwards, bringing widespread rain to coastal Tamil Nadu and the Cauvery delta districts. The weather department has warned of the possibility of very heavy rainfall in 17 districts on Thursday, placing southern Tamil Nadu and several western and delta districts under heightened weather watch. The districts covered by the warning are Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Theni, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, Madurai, Coimbatore, the Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai. Southern districts have already been receiving sustained heavy rainfall. Against this backdrop, the respective district administrations announced school holidays as the wet weather continued, affecting the normal academic schedule across the affected areas. The developing weather system is also expected to influence conditions along the coast. The meteorological centre cautioned that the sea could turn rough because of the low-pressure area and advised fishermen to exercise caution. The warning assumes significance for fishing communities along the Tamil Nadu coast, with the system positioned over waters close to Sri Lanka and expected to move towards the west-northwest. Coastal and delta districts are expected to receive widespread rainfall under its influence, while the district-level warning indicates that intense spells could also extend into the interior and western parts of Tamil Nadu. The immediate impact on education was reflected in the school closures announced in four southern districts and Tirupattur. The announcements came amid continuing rain, with Thursdays forecast pointing to the possibility of further intense spells across the 17 listed districts. The departments advisory also highlighted rough-sea conditions as a separate concern for fishermen operating along the coast.
Tamil Nadu is likely to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall until October 25, with heavy showers forecast on October 26. Check the latest school holiday updates for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet amid the continuing rain alert and thunderstorms.
Fuel prices today: Check petrol, diesel and CNG rates on 22 October in different cities across India
On 22 October, petrol and diesel prices were unchanged across 14 cities. CNG prices rose in nine of 13 locations and held steady in four; Chennai,
Chennai Records 70 Mm Rainfall
The persistent showers prompted the authorities to declare a holiday for schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu districts on Wednesday.
DPH continues dengue surveillance, school environments in focus
The State continues to report 200 to 250 cases of dengue on average each day
ACG-SCOPY Award presented to MedIndia Hospitals
The award was presented at the ACGs Annual Global Conference
Against all odds, silver lining for Kasthuri Rajamani
IJCCI felicitates winners of intercollegiate competitions
Chennai Rains: Low-Lying Pockets Inundated | Financial Influencer Harish Dies by Suicide
The Tamil Nadu Brief by NDTVs Sam Daniel brings you the latest from across the state. Chennai receives 15 cm of rain in 21 hours, inundating low-lying pockets even as much of the city escapes major flooding. State IT Minister R Kumar speaks to NDTV on the citys preparedness, stormwater drains and the risk of flooding if incessant rain coincides with high tide. Financial influencer Harish dies by suicide amid allegations of cyberbullying, which the accused denies. And in an inspiring story, 81 inmates at Cuddalore Central Prison publish 85 books, discovering a new voice through writing.
Child Assault Convict, Nepali Citizen Escape From Chennai's Central Prison
The Nepali national, identified as 21-year-old Sudeep Bogati, was lodged in the foreign nationals' block of the convict prison. A resident of Padi in Chennai, Bogati was arrested in connection with a theft case on August 16.
Heavy rains trigger landslide on Valparai ghat road
Metro train services to begin at 6 p.m. on Poonamallee-Vadapalani stretch
The revised timings will come into force from October 23
Metro train services to begin at 6 p.m. on Poonamallee-Vadapalani stretch
The revised timings will come into force from October 23
All parties meeting over SSR exercise on Oct 23
Chennai students struggle to obtain disability certificate exposes gaps in accessibility
TN fixes car purchase ceiling at 26L for ministers, 15L for MLAs
TN govt orders statewide rainwater harvesting campaign
Chennai streets waterlogged, corporation lines up pumps to tackle flooding
Heavy rainfall may return to city on Sunday: IMD
One of the exotic Serval cats in custody of wildlife trafficker dies
The remaining animals, six Serval cats, two tufted capuchins and two lar gibbons, are alive and continue to be in his possession
TN govt hikes police station contingency fund in a move to curb corruption
Chennai man dons churidar to rob elderly woman, CCTV gives him away
Police said the robber had covered his face with a cloth and did not utter a word during the incident
Rotary International District 3233 presents awards to 113 teachers
10th day of intensive search for missing 7-yr-old girl near Villupuram yields no clues
Assigned panchami land can be reallotted after cancellation, rules HC
Researchers from Chennai discover two new species of marine fish: A sandperch and an electric ray
No Money, No Problem? Robbers Make Man Take Loan To Loot Him In Chennai
After the app-based loan was sanctioned, the robbers withdrew Rs 9,500 from an ATM.
Tamil Nadu Engineers Pioneer Ethanol Fuel Trials Decades Before Policy
Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry Projects Lower 2025 Cases After Pandemic Disruptions
CM Vijay launches rainwater harvesting campaign
The actor then recalled his collaboration with music composer AR Rahman on Rockstar and used a line from the film's song to explain how he sometimes struggles to express himself correctly
Vandalur zoo closes for two days after bird flu deaths
Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority reconstituted
Social media influencer Harish suicide in Chennai: Abetment case registered
Vandalur Zoo closed for two days after Avian Influenza confirmed in water birds
The zoo will remain closed on October 22 and 23; Forest Department officials say seven water birds in the zoo had died between October 3 and 7
Seven waterbirds die of avian influenza in Chennais Vandalur zoo
Gardener drowns in water tank while retrieving mobile phone
Gold Rate Today, October 21, 2026: Gold prices continue to attract attention across India during the festive season, as families prepare to purchase jewellery and investors monitor movements in the precious metals market. With prices fluctuating across domestic and international markets, checking th...
Metro card users struggle to check balance
Chennais second AC suburban train to run on this route starting Oct 23
Vummidi Ethiraj, craftsman behind historic Sengol, dies at 99
Chennai Open Wild Cards For Adkar, Yamalapalli, Revathy
India's top singles player Vaishnavi Adkar, Sahaja Yamalapalli, and Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathy have been granted wild cards for the WTA Chennai Open. American Katherine Hui also received a wild card. Tamil Nadu Tennis Association president Vijay Amritraj expressed optimism about the Indian players' performance at the home event.
PM Modi Condoles Death of Jeweller Ethiraj Instrumental in Crafting Sengol
Ethiraj, the patriarch of the Vummidi family that owns 125-year-old Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, passed away in Chennai on Wednesday at the age of 99
Chennai Reels Under Rain; Subways, Major Bus Routes Cleared of Waterlogging
South Chennai bore the brunt of the downpour, with Kodambakkam, Valasaravakkam, Velachery, Alandur and Adyar among the affected areas, along with parts of central Chennai
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 21 (IANS) The makers of director Sundar C's upcoming devotional thriller 'Mookuthi Amman 2', featuring actress Nayanthara in the lead, on Wednesday gave audiences a glimpse of the film through a video titled 'The World of Mahasakthi', much to the delight of fans and film buffs. Vels Film International, the production house producing the film, shared the link to the 'The World of Mahasakthi' on its X timeline and wrote, Step into #WorldOfMahasakthi and experience the grace, power and grandeur of #MookuthiAmman2 #Mahasakthi.A @sundarcoffl Mega Divine Entertainer. Grand Diwali release on November 6, 2026. #MookuthiAmman2 #Mahasakthi. The video begins with a voiceover warning that in three days time, two great forces would be clashing with one another. Meanwhile, a villager warns others in his village, There are a lot of outsiders who have gathered on the outskirts of our village. It looks like they are planning something big. Regina Cassandra is seen playing a woman with dark powers. A man's voice says, This land and crown is ours. A sorcerer is practising black magic even as a man is heard instructing others to make preparations for the ritual while it is his job to bring the children and a woman. The glimpse video then shows the villagers pleading to the Goddess for help. Meanwhile, Nayanthara is seen playing a police woman, who is even scared to sleep alone. She arrives at a place called Mylanji with her mother. Soon, it becomes evident that the dark forces are looking for her in particular. The glimpse video also shows Nayanthara appearing as the Goddess Mookuthi Amman and a fierce battle ensuing between the dark forces and the Goddess. The film is slated to hit screens on November 6 for Deepavali this year. For the unaware, the makers of the film had announced on December 30 last year that the shooting for the film had been completed. Taking to its X timeline, Vels Film International, the production house that is producing the film, had shared a BTS video that featured clips of all the stars who had worked in the film and their brief opinion about the project. The BTS clip ended with director of the film, Sundar C, confirming that shooting for the film had come to a close. In the BTS video dropped, actress Urvasi had confirmed that the second part of the franchise would have no connection with the first part, which had gone on to emerge as a huge blockbuster. The actress also said that it felt like as the shooting had ended very quickly. Director Sundar C, on the day of completing the shooting of the film, had said that over 2000 technicians had worked non stop on the film for over six months and that they were completing the film successfully. Several other actors too including Regina Cassandra, Kannada actor Duniya Vijay, Singam Puli, Yogi Babu were seen expressing their thoughts on the film. The BTS clip ended with a cake cutting ceremony that was held to mark the wrapping up of shooting of the film. The film has triggered huge excitement among fans ever since it was first announced. It may be recalled that the producer of the film, Ishari K Ganesh, had earlier disclosed that actress Nayanthara, who plays the titular role in the film, had been fasting for a month to play the role of the goddess in the film.
Hookah services offered in some pubs and cafes in Chennai, alleges PIL in Madras High Court
Chief Justices Bench orders notices to the DGP, Greater Chennai Commissioner of Police and Commissioner of Prohibition and Excise
Thiru Vummidi Ethiraj, the respected patriarch of the iconic 125-year-old Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers and master artisan behind Indias historic Sengol, passed away in Chennai on Wednesday at the age of 99. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan expressed deep grief over the loss of South Indias legendary jeweller, praising his monumental contribution [] The post Renowned Master Craftsman Vummidi Ethiraj, Artisan Behind Historic Sengol, Dies at 99; PM Modi Pays Tribute appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Pedestrian fatally knocked down by MTC bus in Chennai
A 45-year-old man was hit by a speeding MTC bus (route number 49F) while he was crossing the Rajiv Gandhi Salai near the Kasturba Nagar MRTS station.
Thota Tharrani retrospective in Chennai brings together six decades of art
Featuring around 280 paintings and drawings from 1969 onwards, the exhibition at Lalit Kala Akademi traces six decades of Thota Tharranis work across watercolours, oils and acrylics. He likes it best when the gallery is empty.
