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PMK Leader's Visit To Vijay-Led TVK's Headquarters Sparks Alliance Buzz
K Balu said the purpose was his visit was to invite the TVK to participate in their December 17 protest in Chennai, demanding a caste-based survey in the state.
T.N. Fair Price Shops Employees Union stage protest seeking better wages and pension benefits
Margazhi fashion: Tradition, textures & tug of the monsoon
Margazhi is never just another month in the Tamil calendar; its a feeling stitched between devotion and drama. There is something cinematic about Margazhi mornings, especially the mist that hugs the pavement, the hum of bhajans , and the city dressed in temple gold. The month feels like a festival woven from memory, yet it unfolds with new textures each year. Sabha schedules stack up, kutcheris spill into every corner of the city, and audiences arrive dressed for an unspoken runway silks swaying under stage lights, jewellery catching the sparkle of spotlight glare. And just when wardrobes begin to bloom, the skies shift tone, sending showers that threaten hems and hairstyles alike. But fashion during Margazhi has always been a performance: part nostalgia, part resilience, and part quiet rebellion. This season, style steps into the spotlight not in spite of the rain, but because of it. Seasonal styling For many, Margazhi style begins with the reverence of the month itself. Margazhi is the ninth month of the Tamil calendar and is known for spiritual growth, says Anjileena, designer and founder of The House of Anji, calling it a time steeped in kutcheri culture and temple energy. It is also, she notes, a month that brings out the classical side of fashion for Tamil Nadu baddies. But balancing Margazhi style with the monsoon season in South India can be a little challenging. Movement becomes central when fashion meets Margazhi schedules sabha hopping, wading through puddles and balancing umbrellas with pleats and bags in hand. Content creator Manasa Sai turns to saris as her timeless choice, calling them classic and instantly standout pieces. When not draping, she leans on Indo-Western silhouettes and long-sleeved kurtis layered based on weather changes. That balance begins with fabric. Anjileenas rule of thumb is simple: choose materials that stay light, dry fast and dont cling. She suggests quick-dry fabrics like georgette, semi silks, rayon, poplins, and any other polyester blend fabric, and recommends georgette floral saris with crepe linings and lightweight polyester printed kurtis or co-ord sets that she describes as modest, comfortable and rain-friendly. Wardrobe stylist Sanjana Loganathan offers a winter-appropriate approach with thicker cottons and wool-blend layers, saying cottons are your best option during Margazhi s cultural rush. When it comes to aesthetics, the season leans heavily into traditional identity. Anjileena prefers hand blocks, ajrakh and small kalamkari motifs, which she finds more refined, especially when paired with darker bases. Sanjana points to prints like lotus, gopuram and kolam -inspired patterns such as muthukattam and encourages upcycling old saris and veshti borders into contemporary silhouettes as a way to stay rooted while experimenting. Colour shapes the emotional tone of the month. Sanjana recommends shades like navy, burgundy and emerald green, explaining that darker colours are both elegant and practical in the rain. Manasa sees colour as something deeper than design. The skies are grey right now, and all that impacts your outfit, she says. So I go for bright colourssomething thats orange, olive green or teal blue. The look comes out well. She layers these over basics like black, beige, and brown to keep balance without losing vibrancy. Layer by Layer Layering is a shared philosophy. The key in this season is layering, Manasa says, urging stylish jackets and turtlenecks. Sanjana encourages scarves, jackets and oversized shirts as functional styling tools. Anjileena keeps utility first, suggesting thin windcheaters or light raincoats from PVC or PU, and crepe trench coats that stay lightweight and fast-drying. Footwear decides how gracefully one can move through the Margazhi music seasons chaos. Anjileena recommends rubber-based Kolhapuris, waterproof juttis and PVC flats in earthy tones that dry quickly and remain traditional. Manasa avoids flats altogether and prefers a small lift, saying even a one-inch heel changes confidence and silhouette. She turns to toe-covered footwear and loafers in shades like grey, beige, dark brown and black. Meanwhile, Sanjana finds platform shoes both stylish and rain-safe. Accessories anchor the look without sacrificing practicality. Anjileena suggests PU or PVC sling or tote bags, transparent umbrellas and minimal jewellery. Sanjana revives nostalgia with the plastic wire koodai bag trendy, kitschy, water-repellent and supportive of local artisans. Manasa chooses anti-tarnish brass jewellery, calling a bracelet, earrings and chain her non-negotiable trio for instant polish. Makeup stays weather-aware with waterproof kajal and mascara, and she reminds us that grooming itself matters: neat hair and eyebrows elevate any outfit. A Gen Z Margazhi Gen-Z reshapes tradition with playful boldness. Anjileena imagines a Margazhi wardrobe with a crepe crop jacket, flared culottes, a chic tote and closed PU or PVC mules with minimal makeup. Sanjana encourages digging into family wardrobes and draping saris differently. Manasa wants them to go fearless with colour, saying they can even wear a sari over jeans and a crop top to create a stylish statement. Because Margazhi fashion, like the music that scores it, is always reinvented, rooted in heritage, shaped by weather and ready to perform under the spotlight of the season.
MOP Vaishnav's Shringar 2025 celebrates alumni and their artistry
Like every year, the first hints of Margazhi arrived early at MOP Vaishnav College this year too. It was not the regular chill of dawn, the scent of fresh flowers, or the kolam on the threshold, but the college auditorium held the seasons spirit in its walls. A created atmosphere with soft light pooled on the stage, the acoustics seized the murmurs, gathering the attention on the echoes of art, and the air felt weighted with the presence of exceptional artistes and their art. The audience, comprising alumni, students, and rasikas , who return year after year, transformed the space into a sabha , where tradition and talent thrive. The crowd of more than two hundred attended the colleges annual cultural festival, Shringar, held on December 10, 11, and 12. What began 12 years ago as a modest alumni showcase, has, over the years, grown into a festival with its own identity. Principal Archna Prasad, in her opening message, said, Its very important, especially for us as an institution, to send out a strong message that once an MOPian, you will always be a MOPian, and we are ever willing to provide a platform for our alumni artistes. Its also a message that wed like to tell them that while they go out there, we are cheerleading and supporting them, and were very proud of them. Shringar Stay connected For the audience and the students to stay motivated and in touch with tradition, the college invites established artistes to serve as role models. They [students] are convinced by seeing real-life role models that even after they graduate and go beyond, they can pursue these art forms, notes Jaishree S, assistant vice principal and coordinator of Shringar since its inception. The festival was inaugurated by Padma Shri recipient Bombay Jayashri. In her address, she said, There is no substitute for hard work. Every dream is real. Every dream is true. So follow your dreams. Answering a question that highlights the fear of technology advancements leaving an impact on every art form, the vocalist mentioned, While we have embraced this digital age, Carnatic music has always been in its best period. And the future looks bright, because there are so many youngsters who are earnest, sincere, and hard-working. Art and its artistes The festival has expanded over the years in terms of guests invited, performers gracing the stage, the audience, and the venue. Jaishree said, Its been an interesting journey from what we started in the open-air theatre. To have a larger audience and better acoustics, the celebration was moved to the auditorium. Here, it is a more engaged crowd who are really interested in the art forms. Were able to give a better platform to the performers. Over the three days, the stage became a meeting point of styles, generations and artistic journeys. Kalai Valarmani Aparnaa Ganapathy and C Geetha Devi showcased their mudras , Sreya S played with different ragas while staying true to the seasons traditional repertoire, and Sruuthis latest play, Agnipraveysamm, which has entered Indias World Records and won Kartik Fine Arts Awards, added depth to the festival. For current students, the festival serves as both inspiration and initiation, as Shringar operates as a learning ground as much as a celebration. For students inside the campus, this is a platform where we tell them that never ever give up on your passion, talents, or your art form, but you should combine them into your career, intricately weave them into your career, notes the principal. On Friday, Padma Bhushan recipient N Gopalaswami, former Chief Election Commissioner of India was the chief guest. He advised the audience members, While this is not the way to life, but one will not have a fulfilled life unless there is some contribution. Do earn money and enjoy lifes gift, but also remember to part with your wealth. It will give you great joy. Meanwhile, Gangai Amaran, singer and lyricist, the guest of honour, said Hold strong to your passion as well as your studies. While your education will give you a good life, your passion will take you a step beyond that. Dr Kamala Selvaraj, obstetrician and gynaecologist, Kalaimamani Karaikudi Narayanan, writer and director, and KS Ravikumar, director and actor, were the other guests. As the event concluded, the auditorium filled with contented applause. The sound echoed with the assurance that this tradition will continue. What will always remain is that it will be an alumni showcase, concluded Archna.
The annual Christmas Pantomime kicks off in city for a cause
Govt wants teachers to control dogs
Chennai Corporation demolishes 10000 sq ft encroachment in Nerkundram
According to a press release, the building with ground plus two floors was constructedon Perumal Koil Street in Nerkundram on land belonging to the Tamil Nadu Housing Board
Screens steal sleep of 2 in 5 preschoolers, says city-based study
Commuters wait long for suburban trains in distressing conditions
Nearly 1 lakh pet dogs registered in city
More than400 protesting sanitation workers detained in Chennai
The workers protested on Kamarajar Salai and near the Secretariat, demanding that the Corporation withdraw the move to outsource conservancy operations at two zones in the city
Kovais TNAU gets patent for formulating chemical to control melon flies in gourds
CM launches womens assistance scheme 2.0
Formula 4 Championship: Three-way battle for top honours
Fifteen-year-old Kenyan racer Shane Chandaria (Chennai Turbo Riders) arrives in Chennai as the points leader with 158.
As a part of The Hindu Lit for Life Unplugged event, author Samanth Subramanian delved deep into the seas to discuss his latest book The Web Beneath The Waves
Chennai Metro Rail starts tunnelling from Panagal Park to Boat Club
Tunnel boring machine, Peacock, will have to drill a distance of 1.89 km on the stretch
GCC clears 48.4 lakh tonnes of waste, reclaims 100 acres
Youth arrested for stalking, attacking schoolgirl with knife
Ramadosss PMK faction protests for caste survey, quota
SHRC orders 5lakh relief to two jewellers
Anbumani contests DMKs claim of 30L jobs
TNPDCL narrows losses due to state funding, restructuring
TN asks SC to reconsider Nov 13 direction on Mekedatu project
EPS, BJP brass & Nainar will decide on NDA: Annamalai
DMK disregards court orders for vote-bank politics, says Nainar
Tbm peacock begins second tunnelling drive from panagal park to boat club
ED restores property worth 121 crore to Axis and IDBI bank in money laundering cases
HC says it will be forced to fix elephant corridors if TN govt fails to do so by Feb
SHRC orders 7.5 lakh compensation for custodial death in Nilgiris
Police arrest man for cheating businessman in Chennai
'I chose me': Why a Chennai techie left her Rs 30 LPA Oracle job to travel the world full-time
A Chennai-based tech professional, Vanathi S, has gone viral after revealing that she left her 30 LPA job at Oracle to pursue full-time travel. She said the decision followed years of balancing corporate deadlines with her love for the outdoors, eventually leading to burnout and a desire for a life that felt more meaningful. Her Instagram post clarified that the move was personal and not motivational advice.
Confusion Theerkkaname: Jam sessions to jettison the blues, jazz up your evenings
6th Avenue in Anna Nagar, Chennai. A pale November evening. The room glows softly; chairs lie scattered; someone tunes a guitar, someone adjusts a mic. From the faint ripple of human chatter, a lone voice rises. A gentle hum follows from the rear of the room, and soon several voices begin to sing. Many pick up the same lines imperfect, but wholly invested. The spirit lifts with the music. Welcome to a jam session. Here, music doesnt merely fill a space it stirs a quiet sense of belonging. Here, a group of Keralites feel at home in Chennai, thanks to blessed music. Vaishakha sandhye / Nin chundilenthe / Aruma sakhithan / Adhara kaanthiyo . The song from the 1987 film Nadodikkattu , rendered by KJ Yesudas, fills the air. Many more follow with shifting rhythms and beats Shanthamee Rathriyil / Vaadyaghoshadikal Konduvaa / Oho Konduvaa from Johnnie Walker starring Mammootty, and Confusion Theerkkaname / Ente Confusion Theerkkanamee , sung by MG Sreekumar in the Jayaram-starrer Summer in Bethlehem . Hours pass, cradled by music and in the arms of bittersweet memories, before the time comes to part for the day. One steps out into darkness, into harsh reality, into the swirl of Chennai traffic, and into the humdrum of existence. Jam sessions are popular in cities like Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, and they are gaining ground in Chennai too. Among people who spend most of their time glued to computer screens and commuting to and from work, there is a craving for belongingto stay connected, to dispel loneliness, to feel at home. Jam sessions offer an answer. The term jam session likely originated in the 1920s jazz scene, when white and Black musicians would gather after their regular paying gigs to play the jazz they couldnt perform in the Paul Whitemanstyle bands they worked in. When Bing Crosby attended these gatherings, the musicians would say he was jammin the beat, because he clapped on the one and the three. Jam sessions are popular in cities like Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, and they are gaining ground in Chennai too. A jam session is a musical gathering where musicians come together to play, improvise, and experiment without following a rigid structure. It begins with a few musicians picking up a song, and soon the whole group joins insinging, clapping, or adding their own musical bitsturning it into a lively, free-flowing experience. Organisers of a recent session in Chennai say the formats popularity has grown rapidly in recent years. Vishwas KP, founder of Do With LIT, a music community based in Bengaluru, said the rise accelerated after Covid-19 as people are more willing to spend on experiences. He added, Before jamming, there were only two kinds of showsone in pubs with live music or DJs, and the second was concerts by big musicians, which are not very interactive. There were many people who werent comfortable with eitherpeople who dont like going to pubs, and people who dont enjoy concerts. There was a middle ground that needed to be filled. According to Vishwas, jam sessions do more than bring music lovers together; they create friendships. Music is something that binds people together. Ive seen it first-hand in my events many people have become very close friends, and I myself have found close friends I didnt know earlier. Divya, the co-founder of Make Some Occha, a mixed-mic community that organises jamming sessions, open mics, and curated events, shared how she started the community with her friend Thejus. She said they wanted to create a space where people could express art and connect with each other. We were fully into corporate jobs, and we realised wed lost our creative side somewhere we wanted a platform for people who have left their homes to express their creativity and form new connections. People are leaving their homes and coming into new, uncomfortable situations, she added. They need to find new friends. So were creating a space where you can randomly come and sit, sing, dance, laugh with no judgement. Divya noted that while the crowd initially consisted mostly of young professionals, it has now expanded to include children, older adults, and families. Vishwas added that about 80 per cent of attendees are between 25 and 35 years old, but they also see groups in their 50s and 60s enjoying the sessions, along with an increasing number of families. While organisers create the environment, it is the attendees who bring it to life. For many, the sessions offer connection, comfort, and nostalgia. While organisers create the environment, it is the attendees who bring it to life. For Reshma, a Malayali architect working in Chennai, the jamming session she attended was deeply nostalgic. There is nothing as comforting and nostalgic as your mother tongue, she said. Songs take us to memories by default; they make you feel connected sentimentally. As someone living in Chennai for the past eight years, listening to old Malayalam songs feels like a slice of home. Between her words, the songs echoed that spirit. As someone strummed the opening chords of an old Malayalam song, heads lifted instantly. Music turned the space into something familiaralmost home. For Shibil, who performed at an open mic, the events help bridge emotional distance. When youre away from home, you have a disconnected feeling. Attending events like this brings back your memories of home. Its a good place to make new connections. The night grew warmer as voices overlapped, rising and settling like waves. For a moment, the room felt less like a hall and more like a living room back home. Liz, a media coordinator in Chennai, discovered one such programme through BookMyShow. This is definitely a place to make new friends. Even if youre alone, you can meet new people here, she said. In a place like Chennai, with such a large immigrant population, more shows like this should be conducted. Im sure more people will join. Vishwas agreed that Chennai offers strong opportunities. Compared to Bengaluru, Chennai has fewer jamming events, and more people here are interested in music There should be more jamming events in Chennai and more groups providing these experiences, because weve seen in our events that people in Chennai absolutely love their music. He said that jamming sessions in Chennai are still new and evolving but have the potential to become mainstream. Badhri Seshadri, founder of Motta Maadi Music, one of Chennais earliest jamming communities, said the city has played a major role in the ventures success. People in Chennai are always so culturally inclined that when something new comes up, they never say no to it. They want to try it and then its up to the performer to maintain the momentum. He also noted that street performances have evolved into musicians using popular public spots to jam, reflecting the citys vibrant music scene. According to him, these sessions thrive not only because the city supports them, but also because generations of Tamil film music legends have created enduring songs that continue to fuel todays jams. Another attendee, Anupama, described the experience as emotional. Malayalam is my mother tongue. I think, speak, and process emotions in Malayalam. Old Malayalam movies and songs take me back to my native soil. Music has that magic I cant really explain, she said. When I heard about a Malayalam jamming session, I was thrilled. Ever since I left home, Ive hung out with many friends but when it comes to music and movies, Ive always felt like an outsider. But jamming old Malayalam songs with people Id never met felt like attending a function with my cousins. Just like that, we were transported home by the lyrics and music. It was sterling nostalgia. As jam sessions spread across cities, they are doing more than bringing music to life they are bringing people together. Through familiar lyrics and melodies, people are finding comfort, friendship, and a fleeting, powerful sense of home far from home.
Strike by trailer owners disrupt movement of vehicles at Chennai, Katupalli and Ennore ports
Trailer owners protest increase in fitness certification testing fees for older vehicles
Recycling solutions for waste we ignore
A series of events in Chennai would bring various stakeholders working in the waste management sector to invest in revenue-generating projects where women could be upskilled and made part of the circular economy
Flautist C.A. Sreedhara is known for blending the gayaki and tantrakari styles of playing
The multifaceted scholar will receive the Musicologist Award for 2025 from The Music Academy, Chennai.
GCC starts registering a rise in complaints about mosquito density
Councillors have demanded hiring of additional workers for mosquito control to prevent an increase in vector-borne diseases
Department of Posts organises two-day philately exhibition in Vellore
Kovalam fishermen urge government not to issue NOC for proposed reservoir
In a petition submitted to the Fisheries Department, they say the project will endanger both their livelihoods and the fragile estuarine ecosystem
Film Festival on ecological problems to be hosted in Chennai on December 13
The event would be held at Agaram Foundation, T. Nagar
The Hindus latest health e-book Care and Cure now live
Chennai-Vijayawada Vande Bharat to run up to Narsapur from December 15
The train will depart Narsapur at 2.50 p.m. and reach Chennai Central at 11.45 p.m.; in the return direction, it will depart Chennai Central at 5.30 a.m. and reach Narsapur at 2.10 p.m.
Artist RB Muraris canvases explore emotional currents beyond language
Beauty Isnt the Point, a collection of non-objective canvasses by Chennai-based RB Murari, is on display at Chitrakala Parishath, Bengaluru
Vigilance court rejects ex-TDB chief Padmakumars bail plea in Sabarimala gold case
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kollam Vigilance court has turned down the bail plea of former Travancore Devaswom Board president and ex-MLA A Padmakumar , who has been arrested in the Sabarimala gold theft case . A former MLA from Konni and CPM Pathanamthitta district committee member, Padmakumar was arrested on November 20 by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with the theft of gold from the door frames of the sanctum sanctorum. Padmakumars counsel argued that his custody was no longer required in the investigation and that the decision to allow moving the gold-plated sheets to outside for maintenance was a collective decision taken by the board. The prosecution vehemently objected to the bail plea following which the court turned it down. The police had earlier listed the board of 2019 as the eighth accused in the case pertaining to theft of gold from the door frame of the sreekovil. Padmakumar was the TDB president when the alleged offence took place. The co-accused in the case, who were arrested earlier, had reportedly testified that Padmakumar took a final call on moving the artefacts from the temple to Chennai. According to the SIT, Padmakumar had recorded the gold-plated copper sheets of the dwarapalaka idols and the door frames as copper in official records. The SIT had also claimed that the prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti shared close ties with Padmakumar. The SIT has so far arrested six people, including former TDB president N Vasu, former Sabarimala administrative officer Murari Babu, former executive officer Sudheesh Kumar, middleman Potti and former Thiruvabharana Commissioner K S Biju. Sabarimala gold theft case: Fall from grace for ex-TDB chief Padmakumar from Pathanamthitta
22K & 24K gold price today, December 12, 2025 across Indian cities
Something is wrong: SC questions Madras High Court over Karur stampede case
The Supreme Court has sought a reply from the Madras High Court on the rules being followed in listing and hearing cases, observing that something wrong appears to be happening there, NDTV reported. A bench of Justices JK Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi made the observation while hearing the Karur stampede case, taking note of a report submitted by the Registrar General of the Madras High Court. The notice also made the Registrar of the Madras High Court a party to the case linked to Actor Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party. Justice Maheshwari remarked, Something wrong is happening in the High Court. We need to see the report says that this remark came as the top court flagged impropriety in the Chennai benchs earlier order. The controversy arose while the Supreme Court was hearing TVKs petition challenging the Madras High Courts direction for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe. NDTV's report noted that the top court said the petition was only seeking guidelines for holding roadshows, and the SIT order conflicted with a prior Madurai bench order refusing a CBI probe. The Karur stampede, which occurred during a TVK rally on September 27, left 41 dead and over 60 injured. The Tamil Nadu government has filed an application seeking the removal of the Supreme Courts stay on a single-member commission led by retired Madras High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan, arguing that allowing the commission to function would prevent such tragedies in the future. NDTV reported that Senior Advocate NK Kaul, representing the state, said a counter affidavit has been filed and the matter needs to be heard. The Supreme Court, however, said it will first examine how cases are being handled in the Madras High Court before deciding on the commissions functioning.
How Chennai has embraced the vinyl revival
After all these decades, vinyl culture is making a comeback, and Chennai is no exception
No Cameron Green on CSK's radar? Five-time champions drop big IPL 2026 auction hint
Chennai Super Kings have sparked speculation after dropping a major hint about their IPL 2026 auction strategy, with Cameron Green seemingly not on their radar. The five-time champions' early signal has triggered debate among fans about CSK's priorities and potential targets.
Chennai startup Tvasta partners with CEPT University to build platform for 3D construction tech
An MoU towards this collaboration was signed recently between Tvasta and CEPT
Digital mentorship program is aimed at early stage founders to handhold them in navigating product, compliance and market challenges The program will create an indexed library of recurring founder challenges and practical responses across payments, lending, wealthtech, insurtech, regtech and embedded finance. Program commences in Jan 2026 The IFTA platform also concluded its fintech awards initiative with Sahi winning Fintech Startup of the Year and Pine Labs winning Excellence in Payments award 3rd edition of Fintech Olympiad registered participation from 70,000 students from over 4000 colleges pan India The India FinTech Forum concluded the 10th edition of the India FinTech Awards (IFTA) on 10 December 2025 at Aurika, Mumbai. Supported by Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), State Bank of India (SBI) and Indian Clearing Corporation Limited (ICCL), this years event brought together policymakers, financial institutions, technology firms, and investors for discussions on regulatory priorities, digital infrastructure, and sector trends. Celebrating IFTA's 10th milestone as the longest running fintech event bringing top industry leaders together and honoring excellence, talent, and fintech innovation Sougata Basu, Founder, CashRich , said, As an Executive Committee Member of India FinTech Forum and the Founder of Fintech Olympiad, I am proud that the India FinTech Awards (IFTA) has become the only fintech event in India to achieve a continuous 10-year journey. This milestone reflects the trust of our fintech community and the growing strength of the ecosystem. With 70000+ participants, the Fintech Olympiad has become a uniquely impactful initiative that builds financial literacy and digital fluency for India. Together, these efforts show how India is shaping the future of finance . The multi-track event featured keynote addresses from Mr. Ashwini Kumar Tewari, Managing Director, State Bank of India; Mr. Vishal Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer, Bandhan AMC Limited; Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD and CEO, National Stock Exchange of India (NSE); and Ms. Vaisshali Babu, Managing Director and CEO, ICCL. Their remarks covered developments in banking, capital markets, asset management, and market infrastructure, with a shared focus on stability, governance, and the role of technology in strengthening financial systems. The India FinTech Forum announced the launch of Mentor Chronicles Fintech Edition at IFTA 2025, introducing a structured digital mentorship series aimed at early-stage founders navigating product, compliance, and market challenges. The initiative responds to a tougher operating environment marked by higher customer acquisition costs, longer compliance cycles and intensified investor scrutiny. The programme collects and curates real founder questions, which are then addressed in focused conversations with experienced operators, investors and sector specialists. Positioned as a long-term knowledge resource, Mentor Chronicles will create an indexed library of recurring founder challenges and practical responses across payments, lending, wealthtech, insurtech, regtech and embedded finance. Beginning January 2026, selected founders will participate, with organisers with an objective of not just funding access but sharper decision-making, better product prioritisation and improved regulatory preparedness. The Forum noted that as the fintech sector enters a phase of consolidation and compliance-driven growth, accessible and experience-led guidance has become a critical gap the programme aims to fill. The Forum received over 1,500 applications for IFTA 2025. Shortlisted firms showcased solutions in payments, lending, compliance, insurance, and wealth management, with a jury assessing them for relevance, impact, and scalability. The event also featured the Fintech Olympiad , aimed at strengthening financial and digital literacy among students. Organisers reported rising participation and noted that early exposure to payments, savings, risk, and digital finance is increasingly important as the sector grows. 70,000 students from across the country registered for the Fintech Olympiad from 4000+ colleges. Around 120 students were shortlisted over 10 online and 21 Regional Rounds for the National Finals held in Mumbai at IFTA. IFTA 2025 also announced winners of the year across categories. Winners at IFTA 2025: Fintech Startup of the Year: Sahi Fintech Rising Stars: Riskcovry, SaveIN, OnFinance AI, Navanc Data Sciences Fintech Scaleup of the Year: Timble Technologies Most Innovative Fintech Product: Fam Best Innovation in Digital Lending: GetVantage Best International Fintech in India: Valocity Best Fintech Initiative For Social Impact: Spice Money Excellence in Payments: Pine Labs Best Use of AI in Fintech: GreyLabs AI Best Innovation in RegTech: CAMS Best Innovation in WealthTech: Aspero Excellence in InsurTech: Perfios Best Technology Company for Fintech Solutions: Falcon Best Initiative for Financial Literacy: PayNearby The winners of the National Finals of the Fintech Olympiad 2025 were announced during IFTA. Students Category: Winner: Tejas Sayli, JBIMS Mumbai 1st Runner up: Dhruv Garg, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 2nd Runner up: Dhruv Patel, Tolani Motwane Institute of Management Studies Professionals Category: Winner: Rohan Khanna, Director, Barclays 1st Runner up: Madhur Tike, Data Analyst, Morningstar 2nd Runner up: Shashank Rakesh, Regional Manager, BriskPe About India FinTech Forum: The India FinTech Forum, a nonprofit platform fostering collaboration among over 4,500 companies and 37,000 individuals, remains dedicated to making India a global fintech leader. Since its founding in 2016, the Forums flagship event, IFTA, has spotlighted groundbreaking ideas, bringing together fintech startups, investors, and thought leaders. The Forum launched the Fintech Olympiad, a national initiative for digital and financial literacy in 2023. www.fintecholympiad.org .
Margazhi music and dance season: What is on the cards fashion-wise, this year?
From precise design hacks to colour-coded costumes and signature stage flair, four artistes Rithvik Raja, Sriranjani Tapasya Santhanagopalan, Christopher Gurusamy and Harinie Jeevitha break down how they craft their Margazhi look for Chennais music and dance season.
Rajinikanths Padayappa re-release: The ultimate FDFS celebration on the Superstars 75th birthday
On Rajinikanths birthday (December 12), we watch the re-release of his 1999 blockbuster along with diehard fans at Chennais Rohini Silver Screens
SI shoots at murder suspect after sustaining injury in petrol bomb attack in Chennai
The SI was searching for one of the accused in the recent murder of a history-sheeter; police said he hurled a petrol bomb at the SI, who shot at him in self-defence
2026 T.N. elections: First-level verification of EVMs and VVPATs begins in Chennai
Superstar Rajinikanth is celebrating his 75th birthday, receiving warm wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Modi lauded his five-decade cinematic legacy, while Stalin praised his charisma and contributions. Rajinikanth, affectionately known as 'Thalaiva', continues to be an influential figure in Indian cinema, recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
College student, class 10 boy stabbed in city suburbs, three land in net
CHENNAI: Two separate instances of violence involving students occurred in the city suburbs, leaving a college student and a Class 10 boy with injuries. The police have arrested three persons, including two juveniles, in connection with the attacks in Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram districts. A 15-year-old student was stabbed by his classmate outside a government high school near Manimangalam in Kancheepuram where they are studying. The police said the two students have a running feud over who had more influence in the area. During lunch break on Thursday, the student, who hails from Orathur, took out a knife from his schoolbag and slashed his classmate on the head. The teachers and students rushed the victim to a private hospital, where he required five stitches. The Manimangalam police registered an FIR, apprehended the juvenile, and lodged him in a government observation home. In the other incident that happened near Tiruttani in Tiruvallur district, the police arrested and remanded Meganathan (22) of VCR Kandigai village for stabbing Barath (20), a college student from VKR Puram. The police said last week, Meganathan and Barath had a quarrel after the former objected to Barath allegedly loitering in his locality. Following a scuffle, Barath lodged a complaint at the RK Pet police station, and an FIR was registered against Meganathan. On December 9, while Barath was travelling by bus from Tiruttani to Pudhotturpettai, the vehicle halted at the Ponthalakandigai bus stop. Meganathan and a group waiting there intercepted Barath and his friends and attacked them with knives before fleeing the spot. The Tiruttani police registered a case, arrested Meganathan, and apprehended a 17-year-old juvenile who accompanied him.
Robust demand for homes and office space keeps city property market steady
CHENNAI: The citys housing supply touched 19,675 units in the first nine months of 2025, a 15% increase from last year, while sales rose to 15,720 units, underscoring a market driven by end-users rather than speculative buyers, a report released at the Real Estate and Infrastructure Summit here on Thursday said. The report Real estate and Infrastructure Driving Growth in Tamil Nadu by Anarock, one of Indias leading independent real estate consultancies, stated that South Chennai continues to dominate activity, accounting for almost three-quarters of all new launches this year as developers push projects along the OMR and GST corridors. Speaking during the inaugural session of the summit, Anuj Puri, chairman and founder of Anarock group said prices have risen 38% over five years to reach Rs 7,010 per sq ft, but absorption has kept pace - leaving Chennai with the second-lowest unsold stock among major metros. The citys commercial market is on a similar trajectory. Net absorption touched 4.6 million sq ft in the first nine months of 2025, already matching last years full-year levels and on track to set a seven-year high, Puri said. According to the report, over 250 global capability centres are now operational across the state. Chennai alone hosts 10% of Indias total GCC footprint, while Coimbatore has emerged as one of the top tier-II destinations for new GCC setups. In a separate session, Ranjeeth Rathod, managing director, DRA, highlighted the prices of raw materials going up which has been impacting the affordable homes as prices have gone up. P Kruthivas, founder and managing director, Pushkar Properties Pvt Ltd highlighted the need for reforms in the granting approvals for the projects. C Velan, CEO, CEEBROS Chennai, Sriram Iyer, director & CEO, TVS Emerald Limited and Bhupesh Nagarajan, co-chairman, FICCI Tamil Nadu State Council & CMD, Indira Group of Companies, also spoke on the occasion. Speaking at the valedictory function of the summit, Shiv Das Meena, chairman, Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TNRERA), noted that the GDP growth of Tamil Nadu stood at 11.19% when compared to the national average of 6.5%.
TANSACS employees yet to receive November salary
On December 12, 2025, gold prices in India range from Rs 13,076 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 11,986 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 2,01,100 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
Chengalpattu government hospital plagued by poor infrastructure
Apart from the poor condition of interior roadswhich link various departments including critical care, the presence of dogs within the campus, poor drainage facility, and open dumping of plastic waste pose severe problems for the public
Public health violations net maximum fine this year across GCC zones
Paracetamol overdose after vax: 1 died, four took ill in 24
Brahma Gana Sabha and Rasika Ranjani Sabha Foundation honour artistes at December Art Festival
100 Ft Road turns dumpyard under GCCs private contract
ECI claims 100% digitalization of SIR, covering 6.41cr electors
T.N. set to complete first spring census this month to aid groundwater conservation strategies
Over 2.24 crore palmyrah seeds planted under Green Tamil Nadu Mission
Several districts including Perambalur, Tiruchirappalli, Pudukkottai, Ariyalur, Tirupathur and Sivagangai have each crossed the 10-lakh mark in seed plantations
Man climbs on top of express train stationed at yard, touches overhead line, gets electrocuted
Tangedco to pay injured worker 5L
Univ of Western Australia to set up campus in city
Woman medico dead, 4 friends injured as car rams parked truck
Students clash with knife in two incidents
Tasmac scam: ED withdraws permit for searches
Suspended banker returns in disguise with stolen gold
YouTuber acquitted in Apsara Reddys plaint
Central agency will decide Ramsar sites zone of influence: TN
Private hospital fined 1 lakh for causing obstruction on road
Metrowater to conduct open house tomorrow
HEAD: 11_Che_VS_Chennai roundtable calls for next leap in inclusive education
MoU for Chennai Metro Rails takeover of MRTS likely to be inked in Jan.
A source says the State government may need 4,200 crore for the projectif it plans to completely elevate MRTS to the CMRLs standards; it has been in talks with World Bank for a loan, say officials
State govt. renews lease period of spinal rehabilitation centre in Tiruvannamalai
After raids, I-T dept says over 1,000cr evasion by biz group
Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital opens new facility in Mauritius
Solar PLI fuels production surge, but key hurdles persist
HUL to sharpen focus on lifestyle nutrition biz, targets multiple formats
Tamil Nadu's local bodies are witnessing an unusual surge in no-confidence motions, primarily initiated by ruling DMK members against their own chiefs. This trend highlights local factionalism, interference from family members, and disputes over resource sharing, leading to the ousting of several civic leaders and disrupting governance.
University of Western Australia to open Chennai campus at DLF Cybercity by August 2026
CHENNAI: The University of Western Australia (UWA) will establish a 50,000 sq ft campus at DLF Cybercity in Chennai as part of a Rs 500-crore investment by the Western Australian government to set up two campuses in India. The Chennai campus, slated to open in August 2026, will serve as the centrepiece of UWAs expansion and aims to anchor a long-term IndoAustralian talent corridor. UWA vice-chancellor Professor Amit Chakma said Chennais strong technology and research ecosystem made it the preferred location. We chose Chennai not because it was the next city, but because it represents the future, he told reporters on Thursday. By connecting Tamil Nadus strengths with Western Australias leadership in oceans, critical technologies and innovation, we are creating a platform for capability-building that will shape the regions next decade. The new campus will focus on areas where regional priorities align, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, maritime sciences, MedTech, sustainability and defence-linked ocean technologies. UWA aims to offer globally portable pathways into these industries, leveraging Chennais position as a top education hub anchored by IIT Madras and several leading private institutions. The facility will open with an intake of 300 students, with annual fees expected to be around AUD 25,000. The university plans to host international students on the Chennai campus and begin operations with about 100 local staff. Prof Chakma said international faculty may be brought in over time, adding, maybe around 25%. The university is targeting a 30% share of international students once the campus stabilises. UWAs move builds on its existing collaborations in Chennai, including work with SRIHER under the SPARC programme that uses AI and eye-tracking to reimagine dental radiograph education. It is also partnering on underwater domain awareness research through a 24-month DFATCSDR programme focused on anti-submarine warfare, uncrewed undersea systems and deep-sea sensing, strengthening Chennais profile as a coastal research hub. Technology partnerships will play a major role in the new campus. A tie-up with HCLTech will offer global micro-credentials jointly developed in AI, cybersecurity, digital engineering and technology leadership, aimed at creating employability pipelines across India and Australia. The collaboration will culminate in the 2026 Indo-Pacific Innovation Hackathon with the Indo-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Indias IT ministry. The investment comes as Australian universities recalibrate their global strategies amid stricter immigration rules at home and increased competition for international students. India, backed by favourable demographics and the National Education Policys push to attract foreign universities, has emerged as the most sought-after destination for expansion.
In a submission to Prime Minister, the forum has warned that treatment interruptions under the National Policy for Rare Diseases have placed dozens of young patients at immediate and preventable risk
Differently abled people to perform dance dramas, skits in Chennai
