Shruti Haasan and Santanu Hazarika break up and unfollow each other on social media
Shruti Haasan and Santanu Hazarika have reportedly split up. According to a recent tweet from the paparazzo account Viral Bhayani, the two had split up and unfollowed each other on social media. Not only that, but Shruti just posted a mysterious comment on Instagram, saying, It's been a crazy ride, learning so much about myself and about people. However, neither Shruti nor Santanu have published a statement regarding their apparent breakup. Shruti and Santanu have been dating for a long time and were even living together for the past several years. They were frequently photographed together and never hesitated to display their affection for each other in public. Santanu is a well-known doodle artist who also works in other mediums. He has collaborated with some well-known celebrities, including Raftaar, Divine, and Ritviz. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) Earlier this year, social media sensation Orry or Orhan Awatramani ignited wedding rumors when he referred to Santanu as Shruti's spouse. Shruti later stated that they were not married. So, I am not married. Why would I hide this if I have been upfront about everything else? LOL. So, folks who don't know me at all, please calm down, she stated on Instagram Stories. Previously, in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha, Santanu discussed their love and their constant public appearances. He claimed that it might be demanding and discussed the backlash he received for being Shruti's beau. I get a lot of racist remarks. I mean, which is very unkind and mean. But, I mean, for us, we both are each others support system in a way that we are very supportive. Were very supportive of the work that we do. We are mutual respects art form, and we are each others sounding board. So, whenever we work on anything, we are the first critics of each others work. And, I mean, for us, work, art, and expression are what take priority and everything else is secondary. So that mental space and that focus help us sort of ignore all the negative aspects of being in the public eye, he said. Meanwhile, Shruti Haasan was last seen at work in Salaar. The film also had Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the key roles and was well received by all. Salaar grossed more than Rs 700 crore at the box office worldwide. Also Read : Shruti Haasan announces her next titled Chennai Story; actress shares glimpse on social media
IPL-17: CSK vs SRH | Inconsistent Chennai Super Kings face bruised Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai
CSK had a good start to the season under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad but they have been toppled by the Lucknow Super Giants twice in the last two games.
TN: School specific committees to prevent corporal punishment
Chennai: The Tamil Nadu school education department has directed district education officers to constitute school-specific monitoring committees to prevent corporal punishment. The monitoring committees will include school heads, parents, teachers and senior students. The department has directed the committees to ensure that they promptly address any complaints regarding corporal punishments and to find out whether Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL 2024: CSK seek return to winning ways against SRH
Chennai Super Kings will host Sunrisers Hyderabad in match number 46 of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL).
T. Nagar braces for more traffic chaos as diversions for one year come into effect
Residents say the locality is already busy and crowded, and the diversions, brought in for Chennai Metrorail work, will just add to the clogging up of residential streets
Can CSK return to winning ways against bruised SRH?
Smarting from back-to-back defeats, defending champions Chennai Super Kings will be desperate to return to winning ways when they face a formidable but bruised Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL match in Chennai on Sunday.
Tambaram: Woman Customer Finds Live Worm in Chettinad Chicken Parcel Bought From Biriyani Hotel
In the heart of Chennai, a shocking incident unfolded when a customer who purchased Chettinad chicken discovered a live worm crawling inside the package. The customer promptly filed a complaint, The post Tambaram: Woman Customer Finds Live Worm in Chettinad Chicken Parcel Bought From Biriyani Hotel appeared first on The Commune .
Officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Tiruchirappalli airport in Tamil Nadu seized 977 grams of of 24K Gold valued at Rs.70.58 lakh from a passenger arriving from Dubai.
CSK Face Bruised SRH in Battle of Former Champions
CSK Face Bruised SRH in Battle of Former Champions Smarting from back-to-back losses, defending champion Chennai Super Kings will be desperate to return to winning ways when they face a formidable but bruised Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL match here on Sunday. CSK had a good start to the season under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad but they have been toppled by the Lucknow Super Giants twice in the last two games. It was an unfamiliar sight for the Yellow Brigade fans to see the Chepauk fortress being breached as LSG knocked down a target of 210 with ease, thanks to Marcus Stoinis' stunning hundred. With four wins and as many losses in eight games, CSK are currently at fifth spot, tied with eight points with Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans and will be keen to find their mojo back as things can quickly go south as the race to playoffs get heated up. Come Sunday, CSK will be up against third-ranked Sunrisers Hyderabad, who have twice broken the record of highest IPL total this season but are coming into the game following a failure of their ultra-batting approach. CSK's batting has hovered around skipper Gaikwad, who pulled off only his second IPL century the other day, and the in-form Shivam Dube, who once again impressed with yet another fifty. While Ravindra Jadeja too chipped in with the bat, the inconsistent form of top-order is a problem. Both Rachin Ravindra and Dary Mitchell's lack of runs is a concern and it has forced CSK to shuffle their batting order. Considering their bowling, the hosts had to toil hard against LSG, given the unexpectedly huge amount of dew at Chepauk that took their spinners out of the game and the visitors made full advantage of it during their 213-run chase. While the CSK pacers managed to capture the four LSG wickets to fell, the spinners struggled to grip the ball, whereas the constant misfields did not help them either. A high-flying SRH, on the other hand, were brought to the ground by RCB when they suffered only their third defeat of the season at home by 35 runs on Thursday. However, it is unlikely to deter the SRH batters who would fancy their chances against an inconsistent CSK. Against RCB, SRH's top and middle-order failed collectively while chasing, forcing head coach Daniel Vettori to admit that the idea of going all out with the bat in the second innings might not be the right thing to do. There is unlikely to be any shuffling in the visiting batting order, but Aiden Markram might need to step up, having been dismissed in singles figures in the last two contests. In bowling, senior seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is the only one who could be at the receiving end, having managed to claim just a wicket in the last three fixtures. With the likes of Umran Malik, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Akash Singh waiting in the wings, SRH may think of given a chance, especially to the Jammu pacer, who has the ability to bowl above 150 kmph. Given that SRH won four of their last five games this season while defending, they would love to bat first but both teams will also keep an eye on the unpredictable dew factor. Squads: Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Mitchell Santner, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Shaik Rasheed, Nishant Sindhu, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman and Avinash Rao Aravelly. Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Aiden Markram, Abdul Samad, Nitish Reddy, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins (c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, T Natarajan, Mayank Markande, Umran Malik, Anmolpreet Singh, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tripathi, Washington Sundar, Upendra Yadav, Jhatavedh Subramanyan, Sanvir Singh, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Marco Jansen, Akash Maharaj Singh and Mayank Agarwal. Match stats: 7.30 PM (IST).
Watch: Rahul reveals what he secretly admires about Dhoni
KL Rahul's admiration for MS Dhoni fuels his leadership at Lucknow Super Giants, anchoring the team's batting line-up. His impactful performances reflect his cricket expertise and strategic approach to the game. Lucknow Super Giants have beaten Chennai Super Kings in both their matches this season. The host broadcaster shared a video of Rahul talking about IPL and Dhoni.
IPL 2024: We Planned To Cash In The Powerplay,' Says PBKS Prabhsimran Singh After World Record Win
Head Coach Trevor Bayliss: Punjab Kings won against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens, chasing down a mammoth total of 262 with 8 wickets in hand. It was the highest successful run chase in T20 history that earned the Kings their third win of the season and the crucial two points Opener Prabhsimran Singh, who came on as the impact substitute, hammered 54 runs off 20 balls to give his side a blistering start in the run chase. Speaking after the match, Prabhsimran said there was always belief in the team to get the win. No matter how big the score is, the team chasing always thinks that they want to chase down the total. We planned to just cash in the powerplay and we did that. We are happy to complete the chase and win those crucial two points, said Prabhsimran Singh after the match. The right-handed batter also went on to reveal the masterful advice from Head Coach Trevor Bayliss in the dressing room that helped his side during the run chase. There was a belief in everyone that if we conceded so many runs, then we could easily chase it. Coach Bayliss told us that we do not have to take the pressure of chasing the total, and asked us to bat like our normal selves. We needed to dominate and we were able to do that and get the win. Opener Jonny Bairstow, who came back into the playing squad, brought the goods on the night, smashing an unbeaten 108 off 48 balls. With 8 fours and 9 sixes, and a strike rate of 225, Bairstow's blitzkrieg helped the Kings achieve a target that at one point seemed impossible. Jonny Bairstow is one of the biggest players in the world. He also plays Test cricket and has been delivering for his country for so many years across formats. Everyone knows what he is capable of. In cricket, you can come out of form with just one match. He scored a hundred today and played a crucial knock, Prabhsimran said. The 23-year-old also added that there was no dew factor on the surface during the second innings, but the team was helped in the chase by a clarity of thought on what they needed to do. It was a batting surface. Our minds were clear and we knew what we had to do. There was no dew factor on the surface. But the clarity of minds helped us, he said. Meanwhile, the in-form middle-order batter Shashank Singh, was promoted up to bat at no. 4 on Friday, and he justified the decision with an unbeaten knock of 68 in 28 balls. With two fours and 8 sixes and a strike rate of 242.86, Shashank brought the firepower and stayed till the end to help his side complete the chase with 8 balls to spare. Speaking on the result, Shashank said, When I was in the dug-out, I was just watching the behaviour of the pitch, and I felt it was coming on nicely with good bounce. I just backed myself to hit the other bowlers, while I was happy to take the singles and doubles off Sunil Narine. We planned to play him out, the right-handed batter said. We still have 5 matches to go, we'll take it one match at a time and I believe that we can still qualify for the playoffs, Shashank signed off. Punjab Kings will next face off against Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday.
CHENNAI: On a night where batters made mockery of the boundary ropes and T20 chases, Punjab Kings came out smiling in the City of Joy as they beat Kolkata Knight Riders by eight wickets at the Eden Gardens. When KKR posted 261/6 in 20 overs, they would have thought they have a better chance, but 18.4 overs later, Kings registered the highest chase ever in the shortest format. The cherry on the top was the 42 sixes hit in the match, the most in any T20. With the record chase (262) at the Eden Gardens at stake, Punjab came all guns blazing as impact player Prabhsimran Singh smashed an 18-ball fifty, that too inside the powerplay. His opening partner Jonny Bairstow hit 24 runs in the final over of the powerplay by Anukul Roy to take Punjab to 93 after six overs. Punjab lost Singh, but nothing could stop Bairstow who went on to hit a 45-ball century and kept Punjab in the chase. From thereon, Shashank Singh (68 n.o off 28 balls) and Bairstow (108 n.o off 48) took the team home in the penultimate over. Bairstow's unbeaten century leads Punjab to highest run chase in IPL history Earlier, Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl first. Punjab captain Sam Curran started well and offered only seven runs from his first over, but the opening duo for Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunil Narine, and Phil Salt recovered well to make it to 76 off the powerplay. The introduction of spin via Rahul Chahar slowed down the duo, but they took 22 runs in Kasigo Rabadas next over to make up for it. The opening juggernaut continued as Kolkata reached 137 at the halfway mark with Narine completing a half-century off 23 balls and Salt joining him, with his own half-ton off 25 balls. In the 11th over Chahar broke the partnership with the wicket of Naine. Salt smashed two back-to-back sixes off Curran, but lost his wicket. Andre Russell flexed his muscles as Kolkata posted 261/6. Brief scores: KKR 261/6 in 20 ovs (Salt 75, Narine 71) lost to PBKS 262/2 in 18.4 ovs (Bairstow 108 n.o, Shashank 68 n.o, Prabhsimran 54).
CHENNAI: The dates are closing in. There is just about five weeks left for the upcoming 2024 ICC Mens T20 World Cup. The turfing of the outfield at Nassau County International Stadium is complete. The venue will play host to three of the four India games in the initial stages of the tournament, including the opener against Ireland on June 5. With teams expected to name their squads by May 1, who will be in Indias squad? How many players will pick themselves? What are the open slots? Lets break it down one by one. For starters, despite the number of youngsters who are lighting up the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), the questions about Indias squad arent that many. The top-order, especially the top four, pick themselves with skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav walking into their spots. If there is any question, it is whether Yashasvi Jaiswal will start as an opener. The youngster finally broke the string of bad scores with a century against Mumbai Indians. With match-ups on offer considering Jaiswal is a southpaw, it should not come as a surprise if Jaiswal starts. Not to mention, the backing he has from the captain Rohit was the first to embrace Jaiswal with a big smile after the match earlier this week. As for Kohli, despite the concerns of slowdown in middle-overs, he will still be in the team. The No. 3 could very well be a vital cog in the XI, considering the slower nature of surfaces in the Caribbean (if India do qualify). If there is a problem of plenty or a selection headache, it is in the middle-order. Rishabh Pant has put his name front and centre with his performances as the first-choice keeper. If he walks in at No. 5, then comes Hardik Pandya, whos form at the moment remains a concern. That being said, India do not have a like-for-like replacement for Pandya a pace bowling all-rounder. The only alternative option, albeit not in all three departments, is Shivam Dube. The Mumbaikar has become a prominent spin-hitter but he is not bowling as much and has been used by Chennai Super Kings as an impact player. While both Pant and Pandya walk in at No. 5 and 6, there are other players as well. Rinku Singh, for example, has pushed himself to be the finisher, but his one-dimensional skill could keep him out of the first XI. However, the UP batter should find a place in the 15-member squad. As for backup keeper, Jitesh Sharma has not helped himself with his performances while Sanju Samson and Rahul have. Samson has been consistent, but Rahul might still edge him out as he gives the flexibility of being the back-up opener and keeper. The problem, however, is that both of them bat in the top-order and this is where Dinesh Karthik has thrown his hat in the ring. Whether he will make the cut or not is not clear, but Karthik has expressed his intentions to play and is backing it up with high impact knocks as a finisher. As far as the bowling department is concerned, Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav walk into the XI while Ravindra Jadeja might be the safe pick for them at No. 7 despite his poor strike rate in the position. The third spinner could be a toss up between Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi and the formers batting could prove to be the X-factor. The real concern lies in the pace department as barring Bumrah, others have not stepped up consistently in the IPL. The obvious choices would be Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj and the reserve pick might depend on the form in the IPL. When the dust settles and the final squad comes out over the next few days, it might not look that different from the 2022 T20 WC squad, especially in the batting department (exception being Jaiswal). Whether that is a good thing or not, only time will tell. Probable players in contention Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson, Ravi Bishnoi, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan.
Over interference concerns, UWW says athletes may be suspended too
CHENNAI: The long pending dispute between the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and the sports ministry has been casting serious doubt on Indian wrestlers participation in the upcoming World Olympic Games Qualifier in Istanbul, Turkey from May 9 to 12. Expressing grave concerns over interference of the ministry in the WFIs affairs, the United World Wrestling (UWW) threatened that it would re-impose a temporary ban on the federation and this time even the athletes would be suspended. The letter written to the national sports federation said the suspension would apply to the final Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in May. We have been informed that the Wrestling Federation of India is once again threatened by your Ministry of Sports with the imposition of an ad-hoc committee to oversee its affairs, read the letter addressed to the WFI president Sanjay Kumar Singh. Adding further the letter said, Besides our lassitude for this additional affair impacting your federation and its members, we would like to reiterate UWWs determination to uphold the principle of autonomy and independence of its national federations in accordance with the UWW Statutes and the Olympic Charter. Going a step further, the world body said that even athletes will come under suspension this time which could affect their participation in the last Olympic qualifier. In case any decision or order should be made against your federation, and a third party be designated to run the daily affairs of our sport in India in violation of the UWW Statutes, UWW would have no other option than to re-impose a temporary suspension of your federation until further notice, and which, this time, could maybe include your athletes. This suspension would apply to the final Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in May, and will certainly attract the attention of the IOC on this matter, who may also consider further action, said the letter. Earlier in August last year, the UWW had placed the WFI under provisional suspension with immediate effect after the Indian body failed to hold an election in due course. The suspension was lifted on February 13 this year. While lifting the suspension, the UWW asked the WFI to reconvene the elections of its Athletes Commission. The WFI has also been directed to immediately provide UWW with written guarantees that all wrestlers will be considered for participation without any discrimination in all WFI events. This non-discrimination includes the three athletes who protested against alleged wrongdoings by the former president. Incidentally, the first mandated condition was fulfilled on Wednesday. Full story: newindianexpress.com
CHENNAI : If you are an active social media user, you would have come across the viral video of a boy consuming dry ice from an exhibition stall in Davangere, a city in Karnataka, and was allegedly reported dead. The clip shows the counter was named Smoke Biscuits and the vendor served the child a smoky liquid. The child screamed immediately after consuming it. Upon fact checking, it has been proven that the boy had consumed smoke biscuits which contain nitrogen and not dry ice which is nothing but frozen carbon dioxide. Liquid nitrogen and dry ice are harmful. Dry ices temperature can drop as low as -196 degrees Celsius and liquid nitrogen to -78.5 degrees Celsius. They get their names from the thick white vapour they produce in your mouth as you consume them at room temperature. Both are freezing agents commonly used in the preparation and preservation of food. Nitrogen causes irritable bowel syndrome resulting in cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhoea, says Divya Sathyaraj, nutritionist and founder of Mahilmathi Iyakkam, an NGO that provides nutritious food free of cost to people in the lower income group. The other harmful reactions of nitrogen in human body are headache, stomach ache, acidity, perioral inflammation (pink patches around the mouth), swelling of lips and tongue, and skin allergies such as rashes, she adds. In the city, an eight-year-old boy visited Divyas clinic with similar symptoms of perioral inflammation, throat itching and other accompanying symptoms. While she treated the kid she notes, Children grab the first bite of any food that looks appetising and tastes yummy. Now that it is time for summer vacation, I am concerned that they might eat anything that looks interesting and exciting. Biscuits are a common snack preferred in any Indian household. As most biscuits are made of maida that can raise cholesterol and obesity, she suggests, instead, parents can give their children a healthy snack. A few of Divyas recommendations are 0% maida and gluten-free biscuits, and ragi laddoo made from palm sugar, ragi dosa, ragi kanji. Ragi is a golden food as it has so many health benefits. As much as it is delicious, it is equally important that parents present the food so that kids want to have it again and again. For example, decorating ragi kanji with pomegranates on the top will attract kids, shares Divya. Murukku made out of red and brown rice, eggs, millet noodles, honey and native fruits such as banana and mango should be added to our diet. Our homegrown food is very healthy. Around 150 ml of banana milkshake is good evening for children and elders, she adds. If you or someone you know has consumed smoky liquid, and if there is no reaction, Divya suggests, Let it go and never consume it again because it can be fatal. If there are reactions noticed, visit the nearest doctor.
Short-term care at Athulya for seniors seeking assistance
CHENNAI: Athulya Senior Care is offering short-term stays acknowledging the significance of optimal care and attention for elderly family members. Whether its for post- surgery recovery or to entrust elders to safe hands during the upcoming holiday season as families embark on travel plans, Athulya Senior Care provides compassionate support, ensuring seniors well-being and comfort in a safe environment. Residents are actively encouraged to engage in activities that resonate with their interests. With 24X7 security and surveillance, the safety and well-being of the elders are of utmost priority. A dedicated team of trained and skilled staff members provide round-the-clock care. As the journey to recovery after surgery can be challenging, especially for seniors who may require additional support and assistance, the facility is equipped to cater to individuals in need of post-surgery recuperation. With a team of dedicated caregivers and healthcare professionals, each resident receives personalised care and attention tailored to their specific recovery needs. Assistance with medication management, physical therapy exercises, and providing companionship and encouragement, is also provided.
Here are ways to protect your eyes this summer Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of outdoor activities. However, along with the fun, it also brings some risks to eye health. The suns intense rays, increased outdoor time, and exposure to various elements can potentially harm your eyes if not properly cared for. As summer has set in, there is a need to protect the eyes from the seasons potential hazards. Longer days, increased outdoor activities, and the intense heat requires special attention to maintain eye health. To ensure your eyes stay healthy and happy this summer, here are some dos and donts to keep in mind. (The writer is CMO & consultant cornea, Sankara Eye Hospital) Dr Umesh Dos Wear Sunglasses Ensure to use quality sunglasses that provide 100 per cent UV protection. UV rays can cause damage to your eyes, leading to conditions like cataract and macular degeneration. Check out for sunglasses labelled as blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Use Protective Eyewear Whether youre swimming, playing sports, or doing yard work, wear appropriate eye protection. Goggles or safety glasses can shield your eyes from debris, chemicals, and other harmful substances. Stay Cautious about Seasonal Eye Allergies Look out for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, usually more common in summer. Symptoms are redness, itching, congestion of eyes along with sneezing. In case you experience such symptoms, avoid vigorous rubbing and consult your eye doctor. Take Breaks from Screens With more leisure time during the summer, its tempting to spend more hours on electronic gadgets. However, prolonged screen time, particularly for kids, can strain your eyes and contribute to digital eye fatigue. Follow the 20-20 rule i.e for every 20 minutes of screen time, take a break and look at a distant object for 20 minutes. Also, blink frequently while on screen; the normal blink rate is 15 per minute. Get Regular Eye Exams Schedule comprehensive eye exams with your ophthalmologist at least once a year, even if you dont notice any vision problems. Eye exams can detect early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration, allowing for timely treatment and management. Donts Rub Your Eyes Steer clear of rubbing your eyes, particularly with unwashed hands, as this action can introduce bacteria and irritants, potentially resulting in infections or worsening pre-existing eye conditions such as allergies or dry eye syndrome. Forget Sun Protection While sunglasses are essential, dont overlook other sun protection measures. Wear wide-brimmed hats or visors to shield your eyes from direct sunlight, particularly during peak hours when the suns rays are strongest (usually between 10am and 4pm). Swim with Contact Lenses If you use contact lenses, avoid swimming or showering with them in place to prevent waterborne bacteria from entering your eyes and raising the chance of infection. Instead, opt for prescription swim goggles or contemplate using daily disposable lenses specifically for water-related activities. Ignore Symptoms Be vigilant for any alterations in your vision or eye condition, and promptly seek medical assistance if you encounter persistent symptoms like eye discomfort, redness, itching, or sudden vision shifts. Neglecting these indicators may result in complications or permanent harm to your eyes. Skimp on Sleep Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. Lack of sleep can cause eye strain, dryness, and irritation. Your eyes perform a wide range of tasks throughout the day and need rest. Aim for minimum seven hours of quality sleep each night to allow your eyes to rest and rejuvenate. Risk mid-day sun The suns rays are at their strongest during mid-day, and direct exposure poses a heightened risk to your eye health. Opt for indoor activities or seek shade outdoors to minimise the impact of harmful UV radiation on your vision.
TruthCon: A combat against misinformation
CHENNAI: Living in a world where our lives are being influenced by Artificial Intelligence in profound ways, separating facts from fiction has never been more necessary than at present. With deep fakes of celebrities surfacing on social media, the days of us being the targets are not very far. Addressing this issue, TEDxNapier Bridge is bringing forward an exhibition and a TEDx Salon under the title TruthCon: Tackling Misinformation. We wanted to explore the topic of misinformation, and hence, we came up with this name called TruthCon, says Shyam Sundar, a founder member of TEDxNapier Bridge. Being set against the backdrop of information exchange and engaging exhibits, this event promises to be an exploration of its roots, allure, and the mechanisms through which it unfurls, amplified by the power of AI. TEDx events typically delve into ideas, but here, were not only exploring ideas but also seeking solutions for them, and the exhibition adds a unique dimension to the usual TEDx format, explains Shyam. Spanning two days, today and tomorrow, the exhibition delves into the intricate ways misinformation impacts our lives and the pivotal role AI plays in its propagation and mitigation. Visitors can explore various forms of misinformation, understand the challenges it poses, and importantly, discover available solutions that may not be widely known, Shyam elaborates. The exhibition will run from 3 pm to 7 pm today and from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm tomorrow. Additionally, the event will debut a website called TruthCon aimed at providing citizens with solutions, including a reporting mechanism to combat misinformation and more. No TEDx talk would be complete without an impressive roster of speakers, right? Well, prepare to delve into this subject as speakers like Nilesh Christopher, a technology journalist; Sindhuja Sankaran, a social psychologist; Karen Rebelo, a fact-checker and journalist; and Muralitharan K, a journalist and Tamil history enthusiast, dissect prevalent misconceptions surrounding AI and unveil the realities beneath the surface. Kicking off at 2.45 pm, this event will happen at Kamarajar Arangam Mini Hall and will also showcase a musical performance by Uru Paanar, a Chennai-based musical collective renowned for infusing contemporary rhythms with traditional instruments. We aimed for an eclectic mix of performances since the topic discussed is serious; hence, offering a lighthearted touch, explains Shyam. Setting this TEDx event apart from its counterparts, he emphasises that attendees can engage in conversations with speakers post-talks, generating conversations around their questions. As the countdown draws to a close, its worth highlighting another standout feature of this event: a commitment to sustainability. Unlike traditional events, no plastic has been used in their curation; instead, every element, from props to signage, has been crafted from recycled cardboard. So, be prepared to challenge assumptions, broaden your perspectives, and engage in the forefront of AI discourse at this event. Prior registration is required to access the venue. To register, log onto: https://bit.ly/truthcon-tedx
Lok Sabha polls: Entry granted. Access denied
CHENNAI: It was 19-year-old Saravanans first time casting his vote in the Lok Sabha elections. The resident of Avvai Shanmugam Salai, affected with a rare muscular disability, reached his polling booth 102 at 7 am to avoid any delays and get inked at the earliest. What curbed his excitement was the school entrance, which was a muddy and gravel-laden path. This made it difficult for him to move on his wheelchair. Not one police official or any other staff offered to help. With the help of my parents, I entered. I waited. I was later informed that there was some problem with the EVM machine and we needed to wait further, he rues. After a delay of almost one and a half hours, Saravanan went inside the polling booth. But as the tables were not accessible, he wasnt able to cast the vote by himself and had to seek his mothers help. Working towards easing the process of voting, especially for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, the Election Commission of India notified on the availability of the pick-up and drop facility for them from their residences to the polling station through the Saksham App by calling 1950 or by calling the District Control Room. Unfortunately, the services didnt work for Saravanan. It wasnt reachable. My friend told me that when he tried to avail the services, they didnt respond in a favourable way, he adds. Meanwhile, Sathish Kumar, a member of Disability Rights Alliance, refused to opt for the pick-up and drop option as most of the vehicles arent disability friendly. It will mostly be a normal cab, it wont have provisions to fit in a wheelchair, he notes. Explaining in detail about the accessibility issues inside the polling booth, Sathish who voted from SIVET College, Gowrivakkam, says, The buildings are very old and the rooms were very small, unable to accommodate wheelchairs properly. The machine is placed close to the wall; most of us werent able to reach the buttons as the tables werent accessible. While the ordeals for wheelchair users continued this time around too, the situation had improved for those with visual impairment. Raghuraman, assistant professor at Government Arts College for Men, Nandanam, who is visually impaired, appreciated the Election Commission for the efforts taken towards 100% voting experiences for PwDs. Affirming that there is room for improvement, he says, All things should be done well at least a month in advance. Lack of awareness is one fault. Even the minimum standard guidelines are not followed in most of the polling booths. Some places lacked wheelchairs and ramps. EVMs should have stickers indicating the machine numbers, which confused the visually impaired. There should also be audio enabled support to ensure that voting is done through VVPATs. Despite the grievances, some polling booths in the city were disabled- and senior citizens-friendly with volunteers offering help. Ivan Raquinha, a 61-year-old resident who voted in Surapet, highlighted that he had a hassle-free experience. He says, I had suffered a stroke recently and couldnt walk without support. Hence, two volunteers brought awheelchair to the car and wheeled me in. They even took me inside the classroom with the help of a ramp. It was over in 10 minutes. Meanwhile, V Santhanam, a 86-year-old social activist shares that his voting experience was also smooth and the only thing he wasnt satisfied with was how there were no seating for senior citizens. Sources also rued the lack of drinking water or toilets in some booths. While most of the senior citizens who could go on their own didnt try the pick-up and drop facility to make way for others, a few others tried availing it but wasnt welcomed with the promised enthusiastic spirit. Octogenarian P Bhawarlal says, They (officials) told that only people aged 85 years and above could avail the service. So, I had to go on my own. Lessons for the future To make the voting experience inclusive, Tamil Nadus chief election officer had also notified the District Differently Abled Welfare Office, which was eventually helpful to coordinate at district level. However, this announcement reached the public at a much later stage that it could not properly facilitate collaborative access audits of polling stations ahead of polls or free transport services to ferry voters with disabilities to polling stations and back home, mentions the report by Disability Rights Alliance (DRA). The transport service announced by CEO Tamil Nadu at the last moment was unfortunately not usable for voters with disabilities as many had tried the 1950 helpline or Saksham app which did not facilitate their transport requests. This resulted in less than 50 voters with disabilities contacting the GCC control room to access transport arrangements, states the report. Sudha Ramamoorthy, a member of DRA, shares that they had booked Get Going accessible vehicles for PwD for the entire day of the election, in collaboration with Vidya Sagar NGO. We had booked two vehicles for the day and seven people had availed the services, of which six were elderly, she says. After observing the execution of accessible poll facilities the Disability Rights India highlights in the DRA report that adequate, updated and periodic training and dissemination of information must be available to access the request for transport and other services in the future elections. They also suggest uniform training materials and programmes be ensured to police on accessible barricades enabling vehicles of voters with disabilities to enter the polling stations. Access audit teams are to be planned from June onwards to ensure that all polling stations are retrofitted and comply with access standards and are readied for a compliance access audit by January 2025, in the lead up to the assembly elections 2026 in Tamil Nadu. Accessible polling booths continue to be a dream for a majority. Though a lot of facilities are offered on paper, it doesnt translate to reality. Sathish adds, Buildings need to be accessible and officials should be more strict in terms of implementing rules. Sudha concurs, Focus should also be on issues like proper lighting to facilitate people with low vision and employing a sign language interpreter for assisting people with hearing impairment. Concluding their stories, people hope that the electoral process becomes an inclusive one soon.
Koovagam Festival: Divinity in diversity
CHENNAI: The 18-day Koovagam Festival, an annual gathering of transgender women, ended this week. This festival serves as a venue for the community to unite, celebrate their identity, and raise awareness about their issues and rights. A large number of transpersons converged in Villupurams Koothandavar temple for the festival. The last three days are celebrated with great zeal. On the 16th day of the festival, Miss Koovagam fashion show was held, transgender people from across the country gathered on the 17th day to get married to Lord Aravan, a ritual that can be traced back to a tale in the Mahabharatha. As Lord Aravan would be killed on the 18th day, his wives embrace widowhood by wearing a white saree, makeup, and jewellery. TNIE lensman Sriram R brings some frames.
Bad roads, garbage mounds welcome visitors at industrial estate in Guindy
CHENNAI: Pothole-ridden roads and damaged stormwater drains with garbage dumped into them greet visitors to the countrys first model industrial estate in Guindy. The southern phase of the estate, which directly employs more than 5,000 people and indirectly 10,000, paints a picture of neglect. The employees are blaming the lackadaisical attitude of SIDCO towards their repeated complaints on bad roads leading to mishaps, some minor and some major. Twenty-seven year-old Shanti, who works as an accountant, recollects the day when she fell off her two-wheeler trying to avoid a pothole a few months ago. I suffered a ligament injury and was bed-ridden for months. I was advised not to ride a two-wheeler, but I am forced to do so because I have a family to support, she says. A pregnant woman also met with an accident owing to the unmotorable road and suffered a miscarriage. She was psychologically affected and quit, alleges Shanti. Aadarsh, a senior official of a company, says he once fell off his two-wheeler into a pit and suffered an elbow fracture. Employees and firms in the southern phase recently submitted a petition, once again, to SIDCO citing poor condition of a basic requirement motorable roads. Given the importance of SIDCO, south phase, Guindy is a premier industrial park. This issue has been affecting the estate for years and we have taken up the matter repeatedly. Though SIDCO said roads would be re-laid by January 2024, there has been no progress, the plea says. The employees also sent a copy of the petition to Industries Minister TRB Rajaa and top officials. A Guindy Industrial Estate Association member alleges that officials are carelessly sitting on such an important issue. The association has taken upon itself SIDCOs task of clearing garbage in the estate. However, borders of the estate are porous and hotels and other outsiders keep dumping garbage into the drain. A petition was recently sent to MSME minister seeking new stormwater drain in vain, he claims. It may be noted that TNIE carried a report in November last highlighlighting the plight of the estate and officials had assured to take prompt action. Talking to TNIE , an official in Tamil Nadu Small Industries Development Corporation Limited says maintenance work of the estate has been transferred to Greater Chennai Corporation and the roads in Ambattur and Guindy Industrial Estates would be be re-laid at a cost of Rs 12.07 crore by the civic body. Work is currently under way in Ambattur estate, he adds.
50 per cent redevelopment work at Chennai Park station complete, project expedited
CHENNAI: Redevelopment works at Chennai Park station have gained momentum, with 50% completion of the proposed works aimed at facilitating seamless passenger transition between the station and Chennai Central, MRTS, and Central metro station. According to official sources, the station serves as a vital point connecting Chennai Central in the Chennai Beach - Chengalpattu section. During rush hours, the entry and exit points of the station witness huge congestion. As part of the redevelopment project, station approaches are being developed not only to provide seamless movement of passengers but also to improve access for persons with disabilities, an official said. Last year, the station was taken up for redevelopment at a cost of `10.68 crore under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. An official note said that over 50% of the redevelopment works has been completed, including the resurfacing of flooring on platforms 1A, 1 and 2. The works to instal lifts, new canopy and other enhancements are under way, the note added. The redevelopment plan involves the construction of a new booking office with an executive lounge, a new canopy at the entry with waiting space, resurfacing of flooring on platforms, development of a pedestrian walkway towards MRTS stations and Poonamallee High Road entry and new platform shelters. Additionally, the proposal includes the provision of lifts (three lifts) for the foot overbridge and handrails, a passenger information display system, an enhanced public announcement system, modern signage, the statement added.
AR constable, 2 friends booked for cheating cop in Chennai
CHENNAI: The Triplicane police have booked an Armed Reserve police constable and her two friends for allegedly cheating a traffic police constable to the tune of Rs 7.95 lakh under the pretext of online business. The victim tried to die by suicide in February and is now out of danger. According to sources, P Muniswaran (30) was employed as a constable at Flower Bazaar Traffic Police Station. In November last, he got acquainted with Priya (33), an AR constable, and her two friends Ajin and Anand, through a mutual friend. Promising to invest in their online business and getting a huge return, they made him transfer Rs 7.95 lakh. However, in December, when Muniswaran did not get any return, he lodged a police complaint. The police tried to inquire, but the trio did not cooperate. In February, Muiswaran tried to die by suicide and was admitted to hospital. After conducting inquiry, police booked a case against the three persons on Thursday. They are yet to be arrested. (Those with suicidal thoughts contact helpline 104 and Snehas 044-24640050)
A taste of Asia: Cafe De Bangkok
KOCHI: Inspired by their culinary travels in Southeast Asia, S Sujesh and Santhosh Baby decided to introduce the mesmerising flavours of Thailand to Kochi. The duo partnered up and started a franchise of the renowned restaurant Cafe De Bangkok, a multi-cuisine restaurant two years ago. Before we started the franchise, Thai cuisine wasnt prominent in the city. A few restaurants served the cuisine back then but the places lacked authenticity. Thats when we bumped into Thai chef Ratchadaporn Puthong who runs the Cafe De Bangkok in Chennai. After that there has been noturning back, we brought the business to Kochi, says Sujesh. Now, the restaurant is raising the bar with a pan-Asian food fest, Oishi. This addition to the restaurants repertoire, created in collaboration with Malaysian celebrity chef Kuan Lai, showcases a blend of flavours, especially from Japan, Malaysia, and China. And it is for tasting the Oishi offerings, that I entered the restaurant on a fine Monday evening. Chef Lai greeted me with a warm smile and pointed to the Japanese dishes on the special menu. There has been a surge in all things Japanese lately. From what Ive learned so far, Kochi is no different. The city has many restaurants that serve Japanese cuisine. However, knowing the soul of the food is important. Be it a bowl of Ramen, or Sushi, at the end of the day, Japanese food is an art, he says. Nyonya coconut veg curry The tasting began with the popular Salmon Maki. Unlike other sushi in Kochi, it features two types of salmon. Fresh salmon is placed on top and smoked one is wrapped in sticky rice, crispy seaweed and cheese. Instead of using just a sliver of wasabi with a touch of soy sauce, the chef showed me the proper way to prepare the dip mix a small amount of wasabi with soy sauce on a plate, then dip the sushi into the mixture. A single bite delivered an instant burst of smokey flavour, and the dual layers of salmon added a rich texture. The next on the list was the chefs signature Malaysian cuisine a brief pause from the Japanese dishes. He brought the exclusive Nyonya food to the table. The Nyonya cuisine is known for its mix of Chinese and Malay. It came into being after the descendants of Chinese immigrants started marrying native Malaysians. The cultural fusion is reflected not just in the cooking style, but also in the clothing of the people, explains the chef. The Nyonya coconut veg curry with rice is exquisite. The curry has tofu puffs, cabbage, eggplant, and a lot more veggies cooked primarily in coconut milk. The mix highlights the Malaysian flavour whereas the glass noodles in the curry hint at the Chinese influence. The curry is the standout dish. When served with rice, it is a complete meal, bursting with flavours that leave no need for any other accompaniments. Then came the beef rendang curry served with roasted bamboo jasmine rice cakes. This dish is an occasional one. It takes too long to cook and requires tremendous effort in the making. People are sure to pay a price for it, adds the chef. The beef is cooked in coconut milk and the tender pieces are easy to pull apart. The semi-gravy dish reminds one of Kerala beef, the only difference is that its less spicy. The roasted rice is wrapped in banana leaf and it can be mixed with beef and a special Nyonya achar. Its now time for the much-awaited steaming bowl of Hokkaido miso broth katsu chicken ramen. The broth is what makes the ramen special, it is cooked for almost 10 hours. The noodles are imported from Japan, adds the chef. The rich creamy miso broth with soybeans, mushrooms, sake, mirin and dried fish powder tastes refreshingly mild. Its the texture of the noodle that makes all the difference, it is smooth and slurpy. The noodle is topped with crispy sesame katsu chicken. After a hearty meal, the chef comes out with Mochi. This is a guilt-free indulgence. The dessert wont shoot up your calories. We curated this specifically keeping the concept of wellness in mind, the chef explains. I decided to wind up the session with the soft and chewy mochi. The item is coated in cocoa powder, and once cut in half, you can see the gooey centre of the banana, chocolate filling and lychee fruit. When you take a bite, the bitter taste of cocoa powder dominates for a few seconds, and then the flavour of fruits comes rushing in like a sweet melody.
**Revised Headline:** **Upcoming Sporting Events**
**Revised Headline:** **Upcoming Sporting Events** Sports Schedule for Saturday, Apr 27 CRICKET: *IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians in Delhi at 3:30pm. *IPL match between Lucknow Super Giants and Rajasthan Royals in Lucknow at 7:30pm. *Preview of IPL match between Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai. *Preview of IPL match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. *Other stories related to IPL, India and international cricket. FOOTBALL: *Stories related to Indian and International football. SHOOTING: *ISSF Final Olympic Qualification Championship (Shotgun) in Doha. *National Trials to pick squad for Paris Olympics in Delhi. ATHLETICS: *Asian U-20 Athletics Championships in Dubai. GOLF: *Indians on various tour events across the globe. BADMINTON: *Thomas and Uber Cup in Chengdu, China. ARCHERY: *World Cup in Shanghai.
Streamline sale of IPL tickets, court tells BCCI, SDAT
CHENNAI: The first bench of the Madras High Court consisting of Chief Justice S V Gangapurwala and Justice J Sathaya Narayana Prasad on Friday directed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) to consider the requests for streamlining the sale of tickets for the ongoing IPL T20 matches. The direction was given on a petition filed by advocate A Sathiya Prakash seeking the direction to the BCCI and SDAT to crack down on the illegal sale of IPL tickets and control sales in the black market. The petitioner had submitted that black market gangs are purchasing tickets in bulk and re-selling them at a high price, leaving true cricket lovers in the lurch. He noted that five persons were arrested by police last month for selling IPL tickets at a marked-up price.
'Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire' movie review: An underwhelming nostalgia bait
CHENNAI : It is often said that the primary objective of franchise films is to evoke nostalgia in the viewers. These films serve as a reminder of the time when we first met the characters, a time when we had fun and didnt have the adult perspective to over analyse the older filmmaking style. An ideal scenario in such cases, is a sequel that takes a new approach while still retaining the warmth of the original film, thereby providing you with a refreshing yet nostalgic experience. However, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the latest addition to the Ghostbusters franchise, fails to deliver in terms of novelty, instead relying solely on nostalgia. This fifth addition to the supernatural comedy franchise takes place three years after the events of Ghostbusters: Afterlife. The Spenglers, including Egon Spenglers daughter Callie Spengler (Carrie Coon), her boyfriend, Gary Grooberson (Paul Rudd), her children Trevor (Finn Wolfhard) and Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), and their close friends Lucky Domingo and Podcast, move to New York City to assist Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) and Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd) in reestablishing the paranormal investigation group known as Ghostbusters. The most exciting factor about Ghostbusters are the wacky, thrilling supernatural adventures. However, Frozen Empire is mired down by indulgent dialogues and hardly has any entertaining action scenes. The writing is often repetitive and lacks originality, exposing the evident shortcomings. The attempts at humour and performances also fall short and are just relegated to referencing the previous films. The humour might have worked on paper but due to the poor execution, the jokes dont land as well as they should have. The only line that gets a chuckle out of you is when Kumail Nanjianis Nadeem Razmaadi wrings a joke out of a tense situation towards the end. The biggest shortcoming of Frozen Empire is that it tries too hard to capture the audiences attention and in that pursuit, it meanders through a loosely packed screenplay. The film tries to do too much at once and fails at all of them. While the Ghostbusters are busy with a mission, we are treated to a subplot involving Phoebe, who meets a ghost named Melody and builds an intimate relationship with her. In another instance, when Trevor asks for help from his mother, she replies, Arent you an adult boy?, essentially pushing him to become more mature. While these subplots had interesting potential, the film never truly fleshes them out. All of these different plot threads are crammed together, causing the story to lose its focus and diluting the impact of the story. Towards the end of the final act, struggling to make sense of the many plot threads it opened, Frozen Empire falls flat and fails to establish the antagonist satisfactorily. Since we do not understand or connect with the motivations of the antagonist, the finale becomes forced. Unfortunately, even with all the quirkiness, thrills, and adventures inherent in the franchise, Frozen Empire never truly leverages any of its strengths. It fails to capture the unique charm and appeal that made the original a classic. Nostalgia can be a powerful tool if combined with fresh ideas, but in this case, its a missed opportunity. Just like the ghosts in the Ghostbusters firehouse headquarters, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire fades away and fails to leave a lasting impression. Film: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Director: Gil Kenan Cast: Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Kumail Nanjiani Rating: 2/5
'Oru Nodi' movie review: Promising premise let down by incoherent execution
CHENNAI : While we almost appreciate debut director R Manivarman for not wasting time in an investigative thriller with a romantic track, he surprises us by doing just that towards the second half of the film. The romance involves an alleged murder accused, and this tangent pulls the focus away from the missing persons case that Oru Nodi opens with. This has been the most predominant shortcoming of the film. It rebelliously wishes to stand out, which it does in some parts, without realising that being different is not the entire purpose of a story. The screenplay takes the attention span of the audience for granted, with the film focusing on two different police cases at the same time. One scene jostles with another, just when we learn who is who and why they behave the way they do. This would have been a well-made film if just one of the two stories was given prominence and the other was relegated to a negligible subplot or a cold case with a yet-to-be-discovered startling truth that could solve both the cases. Unfortunately, this wasnt the case. With a runtime of 128 minutes, Oru Nodi quickly unravels the plot of a missing person, Sekar (MS Bhaskar), who is running against time to settle the dues to get back his mortgaged property from a ruthless land shark named Karimedu Thiyagu (Vela Ramamoorthy). The first 30-odd minutes were brilliant as police officer Parithi Ilamaran (Taman Kumar) has a peek into Sekars habitat, and then a murder case presents itself which we can predict right from the beginning that it will be connected with the missing case. Despite the predictability, we are still engaged because the how is what Oru Nodi is all about. In a film that rests its weight on the narrative flow and not on the characters, there are understandably no remarkable performances. But Taman Kumar ends up delivering a fairly engaging performance. However, actor MS Bhaskar is severely under-utilised and Pala Karuppiahs role ends up becoming unintentionally hilarious. Unfortunately, dialogues too are not a part of the films strength. Lines like Unna nimmadhiya vaazha vida maaten, Vengayatha urikkura maadhri urichiruven, and Unna kaadhalicha un pinnadi dhaane vara mudium are as generic as it could get. Also, even with its attention to detail, Oru Nodi falters with logical loopholes. It is common knowledge that the law does not permit the cremation of a body that is connected to a suspicious murder. But even before the probe is halfway through, we are shown the victims cremation just for the sake of drama. Salt on the wound is a murder that changes the course of the story. It happens with a shaving razor, that too accidentally! The biggest flaw of Oru Nodi, however, is its lack of a coherent screenplay. It becomes an anxious experience to remember each and every detail of one story before we forget it while trying to concentrate on the other story. How the film alternates between the two stories is disturbingly abrupt. S Guru Suriya leaves a lot to be desired on the editing front. The second half is stretched out so much that even a two hour runtime feels like three hours. With all that being said, Oru Nodi has safely distanced itself from indulging too much on the romantic track and also thankfully stays away from a typical Tamil cinema cop song. However, it needs to be mentioned that both the murder story and the missing story had interesting aspects and the potential to operate independently. Oru Nodi, with a few likeable portions, suffers from the directors urge to throw details all around and create surprises, rather than catering to the storys demand. Detailing and purposeful misdirection are essential ingredients to an investigative thriller, but adding these details to an overwhelming extent makes this film unpalatable. Film: Oru Nodi Director: R Manivarman Cast: Taman Kumar, MS Bhaskar, Nikita Krish, Vela Ramamoorthy, Pazha Karuppaiah and Gajaraj Rating: 2/5
'Rathnam' movie review: A hyper-violent family drama with an overstuffed screenplay
CHENNAI : Indian mass masala is perhaps the only genre in the world that gets away with chilling violence and still gets labelled as a family entertainer. While we are mostly used to violence in such filmsand have even learned to enjoy them to an extentRathnam manages to out-gore even our most violent commercial film. Rathnam begins with a bandit trio who topple a bus and then steal money and jewels from their half-conscious victims. Devoid of patience and empathy, these criminals even slash the ears to remove earrings, cut off fingers with rings on them, and stop short of beheading them to remove gold chains. But you almost expect that to happen because thats the over-the-top bar we start to expect by then. Rathnam has an acute fascination with mutilation because there are several such scenes. This might have been interesting if it served as a motif or if it is the bad guys (or the protagonists) signature move but no, we see severed limbs as many times as we see a supporting character like Yogi Babu. Ironically, at least the severed limbs make you grimace, which means you felt something, the same could not be said for the comedians scenes. Almost every attempt at humour drains the film of any little charm or energy it previously accrued. The fact that these comedy scenes are awkwardly placed does not help either. For instance, we are shown a squirm-worthy scene that depicts a sexual assault and immediately afterwards we are introduced to Yogi Babu bursting onto the frame to display his comedic shenanigans. However, Rathnam is not devoid of Haris trademark ingenuity, even though they only appear in brief flashes. How the strength of writing and its detailing suffers deformity at the hands of careless staging, is demonstrated well enough in a scene towards the end of the film. Before heading out to face the villain for a final showdown, Rathnam (Vishal) hurriedly helps himself to some home-cooked food made by Malligas (Priya Bhavani Shankar) mother, and who makes a heartfelt appeal to make Rathnam dine at their house. As an orphan who lost his mother at a young age, Rathnam finally feels the warmth of a family at Malligas house, this scene poignantly captures Rathnams yearning for maternal love. This also tells you that he is going to go all-out on the final battle, and is ready to not come back alive. However, such a brilliant demonstration of character depth is preceded by a forgettable exchange of lines between Rathnam and Malliga. That along with the pacing, and the way the scene is staged, makes the last supper scene look like a parody of itself. There are many such tonal transgressions. While Haris signature pace is all over the film, the scenes lack any kind of tension. For example, in a pivotal moment following a lengthy chase sequence, Rathnam and Malliga are surrounded by the villains goons. In every action-entertainer, the lead characters are eventually trapped in an impossible situation, and before the audience realises how they could escape, the story needs to deliver a dazzling, convincing, and a non-generic way for the protagonist to get out of the threat. However, in Rathnam, while we wait with bated breath to see how Rathnam escapes, he just simply takes a gun and shoots them all. Whenever Malligawho almost makes you feel nostalgic for how much of an old-school damsel she isgets into trouble, before you even feel any tension, Rathnam jumps in to save her and kills the scene. Composer Devi Sri Prasad makes sure that the tone of a scene is all over the place. A chilling crime or a gripping action scene has melodramatic TV serial-like music playing over it. The thought behind this is commendable because we understand the composer does not want the scenes to glorify violence, he does not want to give you generic action music. However, the overstuffed music only ends up pulling you out of the scene. Rathnams issues are one of excess. The plot threads, the music, the violence, the tedious action, and multiple expositions that serve little to the overall story, are all excessive. The film rides on a fairly engaging premise but crumbles under the weight of a needlessly dense screenplay. Vishals lack of range does not help either. We see traces of what it could have been: A consummate Hari film. However, Rathnam only ends up enlarging everything we choose to overlook in Haris better films. Film: Rathnam Director: Hari Cast: Vishal, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Yogi Babu Rating: 1.5/5
Tangedcos transformer protection bags patent
CHENNAI: The Indian Patent Office, under the union government, has granted a patent to the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) for their Flexible External Bellow for Insulation Protection of Transformers on March 30, 2024. This patent is valid for 20 years, commencing from April 16, 2015. As per an announcement from Tangedco on Friday, the external bellow was crafted by the power utilitys research and development wing. Highlighting the importance of this invention, the release stated, Moisture poses a significant threat to transformers. The conventional methods to mitigate moisture prove to be insufficient, expensive and intricate. With this invention, a sealed expandable bellow is connected after the silica gel breather of the transformer. The system would make a transformer sealed, providing complete immunity from external moisture and oxygen. Consequently, the innovation promises to curtail maintenance costs, minimise downtime and mitigate operational failures, the release added. A senior official said, The power utility has so far installed this innovation at 70 substations in various parts of the state. We plan to install this on all transformers gradually.
Decomposed body of Chennai woman found 10 days after murder; man held
VELLORE: THE Pulianthope police on Friday morning discovered the partially-decomposed body of a 31-year-old woman along the foothills of Netteri hillock, 1.5 kilometres from Gudiyatham Railway Station in Vellore, ten days after she was allegedly murdered by a 25-year-old man from Gudiyatham. On April 15, the victim, a divorcee from Pulianthope in Chennai, was reported missing by her parents, who said she had taken a train to Vellore a day before, under the pretext of going to borrow books from a friend. The police registered a case, traced her mobile phone signal, which led them to Hemaraj (25), whom the victim had contacted last. During the investigation, it came to light that the two had known each other since 2021 and were in a relationship. The victim reportedly met him at the Gudiyatham Railway Station on April 14. Sources said that she insisted Hemaraj on getting married, which could have caused a rift. Around 12.30 am on Friday, the Pulianthope police, along with the suspect, searched the foothills, where he had allegedly stabbed the woman to death, and discovered the victims corpse in a partially-decayed state. The police retrieved her bag, identity card, and a knife that was used as the murder weapon. The case was then transferred to the Gudiyatham police station and the body was sent to the Government Vellore Medical College and Hospital in Adukkamparai for autopsy. Only after the autopsy results, the police said, they could conclude whether the victim was sexually assaulted or not. An FIR has been registered under Section 302 (punishment for murder) of the Indian Penal Code. During the investigation, it was found that the suspect was charged under the Goondas Act in 2022 for attempting to snatch a chain from a woman on a moving train in Katpadi, pushing her onto the railway track. He was jailed for ten months and the case is on trial at the Mahila Court in Vellore.
CB-CID to probe Rs 4cr seizure from 3 train passengers in Tamil Nadu
CHENNAI: The case concerning the seizure of Rs 3.99 crore by Flying Squad Teams (FST) officials and Tambaram railway police, from three individuals allegedly connected to Nainar Nagendran on a train on April 6, has been transferred to the CB-CID based on orders from DGP Shankar Jiwal. The three men were identified as Sathish (33, a BJP member), Naveen (26) and Perumal (26). On April 14, Tambaram police issued a summons to Nagendran and Govardhan, state president of the BJP Industry Cell. Speaking at a presser on Thursday, Nagendran assured that he will appear before the police on or before May 2 for inquiry and claimed that he was being targeted. Providing details about the summons issued to him by the police, Nagendran further added that as much as Rs 200 crore was seized but only the Rs 3.99 crore is being widely discussed. He further added that since the BJP leadership has requested him to campaign in other states, he might seek permission to appear beforehand rather than on May 2. Seizure of cash from people linked to BJP's Nainar Nagendran doesn't warrant disqualification: Madras HC 'I have no connection with money seized in Chennai': BJP LS candidate Nainar Nagendran CEO reviews state preparedness for vote-counting Chennai: Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo chaired a video conference with district election officers (DEOs) and returning officers (ROs) to review preparations for the vote counting scheduled for June 4. During the meeting, Sahoo enquired DEOs and ROs on the various aspects including the installation of CCTV cameras at counting centres, uploading voting details as soon as they complete each round, webcasting the process and providing adequate training to personnel who are assigned for counting. He directed officials to ensure robust security measures in the strong rooms and to provide essential facilities for counting staff and party agents. He urged them to promptly report any emergencies during the counting process to the ECI.
Cervical cancer on decline yet remains 2nd common among Chennai women
CHENNAI: The incidence of cervical cancer has declined in Chennai, according to Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry Project report statistics for the year 2018 by the Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar and the state health department, which was released by the end of 2023. The Crude Incidence Rate (CIR), number of cases per lakh population, of cervical cancer in Chennai has come down from 29.6 in 1987-91 to 13 in 2018. The CIR in Chennai is lower than the states CIR of 17.7. Dharmapuri had the highest CIR of 36.2 for cervical cancer, followed by Perambalur (36.0), and Ariyalur (29.9). Kanniyakumari had the lowest of 7.2. Figures to compare the long-term trend are not available for other districts since the cancer registry project was implemented in other parts of the state much later. Despite the decline in the incidence in Chennai, cervical cancer continues to be the second most common cancer among the women in the city, after breast cancer. WIAs assistant director Dr R Swaminathan, who is also head of the department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Cancer Registry said, factors such as improved personal hygiene, late marriages, less number of children, and screening are likely to have contributed to the decrease in cervical cancer. Dr P Sampath, assistant professor in the same department said more studies should be conducted to know the risk factors for cervical cancer. Regular screening should be done and awareness and vaccination should be promoted among school students, he added. In contrast, the incidence of breast cancer seems to be on the rise in Chennai, according to the report, with one in 17 people at risk. The CIR for breast cancer in Chennai, which was 16.6 in 1987-91, jumped to 52.1 in 2018. This is nearly double of the states figure of 27. Dr Swaminathan said early menarche, late menopause, no breastfeeding, and first childbirth at a later age are some of the risk factors for breast cancer. He added while cervical cancer is decreasing in all districts, breast cancer is increasing. With a CIR of 35.5, Coimbatore had the second highest incidence of breast cancer, followed by Kanniyakumari (34.3). Ariyalur had the lowest of 12.2. The CIR for all types of cancer for Chennai stands at 145.3 whereas the same is 96.1 for the whole state. According to the report, the state had 77,138 observed cases of cancer, which is projected to have increased to 88,750 by the end of 2022.
Can speakers orders be challenged, asks Madras HC
CHENNAI: The Madras High Court on Friday questioned a petitioner seeking to revive the alleged 2001 flyover scam case whether the decision of the assembly speaker to withdraw the sanction granted for prosecuting the current CM MK Stalin be challenged in the court, that too, after a delay of about 15-20 years. The first bench of Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice J Sathya Narayana Prasad raised the query when the PIL plea filed by a Coimbatore-based activist, Manickam Athappa Goundar, challenging the withdrawal of sanction for prosecution against Stalin and his cabinet colleague K Ponmudy, came up for hearing. The petition was taken up after the petitioner deposited Rs 1 lakh in the account of the courts registry as directed by the bench to test the bonafide intention behind filing the petition. You have to convince us on two aspects. One is whether you can challenge the order of the speaker and the second the delay of 15-20 years to file the petition, the bench told senior counsel MR Venkatesh, who appeared for the petitioner. Further, the bench wanted him to do some research to find any court judgments wherein the orders of the assembly speaker had been challenged. It also stated the merits of the petition will be tested before going into it. The bench adjourned the matter to June 7 for hearing. The petitioner had challenged the 2006 decision of the assembly speaker to withdraw the sanction for prosecution granted in 2005 against Stalin, his father and late CM M Karunanidhi, Ponmudy and another late leader Ko Si Mani, who was a former minister, in the alleged flyover scam.
Daughter of TN beedi worker beats the odds to clear civil services exam
TENKASI: In an inspiring tale of perseverance and triumph over adversity, the daughter of a single mother, a beedi worker, has cleared the prestigious Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The success story of S Inba, who got 851st rank in the all-India exam considered to be the toughest, is also a stellar example of how meaningful government interventions at the grassroots levels can produce exceptional outcomes. The public library at Shengottai became Inbas second home for two years and the free books and internet available in the library helped her come up trumps. My mother S Stella is a beedi roller. She also strings flowers at a nearby shop for additional money to run the family. The motivation given by my mother and her confidence in me made me clear the exam though I failed to crack the preliminary examination twice, said the Naan Mudhalvan Scheme beneficiary. Inba studied in Nadar Community Higher Secondary School, Vasudevanallur, in English medium till SSLC and pursued her higher secondary in MKVK Matriculation School, Tenkasi. In 2020, she completed her engineering degree in Computer Science at Coimbatore Institute of Technology. After my graduation, I joined Shankar IAS academy in Chennai for civil services exam coaching. However, due to Covid-19 lockdown, I could not continue there and had to take online classes. Over the next two-and-a-half-years, I prepared for the exam entirely from the government public library in Shengottai where librarian K Ramasamy and other staff made all arrangements for students preparing for different competitive examinations. I would attend online classes from the library from 8am to 8pm by accessing the free WiFi connection. The staff also arranged different newspapers, journals, books and magazines for me, she said. Inba said she later joined the All India Civil Service Institute, a free government coaching institute in Chennai, by clearing an entrance examination in December 2022. I was offered free food and accommodation there. No fee was collected. I also received financial assistance of Rs.25,000 from the hands of Chief Minister M K Stalin under the Naan Mudhalvan Scheme. The money helped me to purchase study materials for the Main examination and take printouts and photocopies. I also cleared the state governments scholarship exam and received Rs 7,500 financial assistance per month offered for those preparing for competitive exams. After clearing the Main examination, I attended UPSC interview in February 2024. Meanwhile, I also cleared the Staff Selection Commission exam and joined as a staff member of the Employee Provident Fund Organisation in March this year. I will soon join a central service post that I will get through UPSCs service allocation, she said. District Collector A K Kamal Kishore and Kadayanallur MLA C Krishnamurali met Inba and congratulated her on the achievements.
Madras HC orders mapping of all wetlands in TN from June
CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has ordered the Tamil Nadu government to carry out mapping of wetlands in all districts of the state from June this year on the lines of the exercise carried out in Tiruvallur district. The court has also directed the state to submit reports on the progress of the exercise periodically to the court in order to preserve these natural resources. The first bench of Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice J Sathya Narayana Prasad passed the order on Friday while hearing a suo motu case on conservation of wetlands. The mapping of wetlands, as done in Tiruvallur district, must be undertaken. This process in all the districts has to be undertaken expeditiously and it shall commence by June 2024, the bench said. The court said the mapping of wetlands in other districts must be carried out on the lines of the pilot project implemented in Tiruvallur. The HC had, on August 26, 2022, ordered the state to complete the mapping of wetlands in Tiruvallur based on the mapping done by amicus curiae T Mohan with the help of a technical team and do physical verification of the wetlands to compare them with 2011 data. Court took up suo motu case in 2017 The court had also directed conducting the mapping initially and then to hold physical verification of the wetlands and to seek objections before bringing the maps in the public domain. If there are no objections, the wetlands are to be notified under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules of 2017. The court had given six months for completion of entire process of mapping, physical verification but the state had not done them. The CJ pointed out that the exercise of physical verification of wetland in Tiruvallur has not yet commenced even after one and a half year. The HC took up the suo motu case in 2017 based on the order passed by the SC on April 3, 2017, in a case seeking specific steps for preservation of the wetlands in the state covered by the Ramsar Convention of 1971. The court had also impleaded 32 district collectors to ensure effective implementation of orders on preservation of wetlands.
GCC identifies 2,139 bad roads for relaying in city
Traffic delays at Medavakkam due to removal of U-turn
82,000 engg students battle it out at TN Coders Premier League
TN sailor Nethra secures Paris quota
CAT quashes memo against IPS officer
Get ready for a 300-curve metro ride
Bridge to be ready by Nov on highway at Tambaram
Ensure uninterrupted power: Tangedco told
SHRC orders compensation to kin of prisoner who died in jail
Arts, science colleges planning to introduce data science courses
Mount-Velachery-Beach MRTS misses deadline, again
MLAs want model code of conduct relaxed, their offices to be reopened
HC asks BCCI, TN to take action to curb illegal sale of IPL tickets
No end to landgrab at Medavakkam lakes
Armed gang on hacking spree attacks 12
Gold worth `75L found at airport
Health-tech: Reddys merge Keimed with Apollos unit
Chennai Petroleum Corporation Q4 Results Live : profit falls by 38% YOY
Chennai Petroleum Corporation Q4 Results Live : Revenue decreased by 2.47% YoY & profit decreased by 38% YoY
LSG set to clash with RR in high-stakes IPL clash
Lucknow, April 26 (UNI) The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) gear up to take on the formidable Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a crucial IPL 2024 fixture at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium this Saturday. LSG, fresh from impressive victories against defending champions Chennai Super Kings, are currently... The post LSG set to clash with RR in high-stakes IPL clash first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .
Woman found dead in Gudiyatham
One of the Project Management Consultancy firms claimed that the certificate was fake; the civic authority has issued a show-cause notice to the two contractors on April 16
Cognizant Faces Bribery Probe in Pune, India
Cognizant Faces Bribery Probe in Pune, India The sessions court here has directed the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Maharashtra Police to investigate allegations against IT major Cognizant Technologies that it paid a bribe through a contractor to local government officials to secure necessary permits and environmental clearances for its campus at Hinjawadi on the city's outskirts. The bribe was allegedly paid between 2013 and 2014. The order was passed on April 19, on a complaint filed by Delhi-based environmental activist and retired police officer Prit Pal Singh through his lawyer Pratik Rajopadhye. The complaint relied on proceedings of the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) of the USA against Cognizant Technology Private Ltd's parent firm Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation, USA regarding alleged bribing and violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Singh had requested the Pune court to direct the ACB to register an offence under the Indian Penal Code and Prevention of Corruption Act against Cognizant, its Indian construction contractor, and Manikandan Rammurthy, former vice president (administration and real estate officer, Cognizant, India). Additional Sessions Judge S B Hedaoo stated in the order that as the reference to the alleged transaction was found in the US SEC order, there was sufficient material to forward the complaint to the ACB Pune. Unless an offence was registered against the unknown government officers involved the alleged bribery, ''this matter would not move even inch further'', the court observed, adding that without an urgent investigation, evidence in the company's computers may vanish. ''Complaint is forwarded to Anti Corruption Bureau, Pune under section 156(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure for investigation. Anti- Corruption Bureau, Pune is directed to investigate these allegations and submit a report,'' the order said. As per the complaint, the contractor firm which constructed the software firm's Hinjawadi and Chennai offices informed it that bribes were required to be paid to government officials at both places to obtain necessary permits and environmental clearances. Cognizant, USA and its Indian subsidiary allegedly agreed to this, the complaint said. In 2013-2014, USD 7,70,000 were reimbursed by the Indian subsidiary company to the contractor firm (which had allegedly paid the bribe of the same amount on its behalf) with regard to the Pune campus, the complaint claimed, citing the US SEC order. ''Some time in 2016, in the internal audit of parent company at U.S.A. this fraud was detected and as against this bribe amount so pumped up to India, some fake vouchers and bills of non-existing work were raised to cover up the bribe transaction. The parent company in U.S.A. conveyed this fact to Securities Exchange Commission, U.S.A. Before this statutory authority, the Department of Justice of U.S.A. prosecuted the parent company and parent company admitted its offence and undertook to pay the penalty of 25 million dollars to U. S. government by entering into a settlement of deferment of prosecution as per U.S.A. law. The order to that effect was passed by SEC, USA on 15/02/2019,'' the Pune court's order stated. When contacted, Cognizant said in a statement that it does not comment on sub-judice matters and it was ''committed to complying with the law''. PTl SPK KRK
Govt. asks people to donate records, rare objects on freedom struggle for museum in Chennai
Tussle for Reins of AIADMK on the Cards
Chennai: A new tussle for holding the reins of the AIADMK is on the cards with V K Sasikala, erstwhile confidante of former party chief J Jayalalithaa, likely to throw in her hat with the hope of ousting present general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and regaining the position that she was divested of in the aftermath of her going to jail in 2017. Though she completed her four year sentence at the Parapana Agrahara prison in Bengaluru on January 27, 2021, and drove down to Chennai in style, so far she had been keeping her political aspirations to herself. But now, after her loaded statement outside the polling booth on April 19, the grapevine is abuzz with speculations on her next move. Now, it is said that her plan is to wait for the results of the Lok Sabha elections and then pounce on Palaniswami with the help of some disgruntled leaders and functionaries within the AIADMK. As she herself suggested on Election Day she said that the results would make some people regret their decisions - the AIADMK would be trounced and that could be used to raise a demand for a change in leadership. While she cannot do it on her own as she has been thrown out of the party by Palaniswami and his coterie, she has started writing letters to other functionaries and leaders in the lower rungs of the party to incite the rebellion against Palaniswami. The plan is to ask for the convening of the General Council and demand elections for the general secretary that Sasikala hopes to win. Sensing the trouble brewing for him, Palaniswami is said to have woken up to invigorate the cadre by issuing them fresh membership cards having his signature as general secretary and also photographs of founder M G Ramachandran, J Jayalalithaa and himself on them. The cards that would, as a party insider said, be distributed only to those whose loyalty to Palaniswami was confirmed. So, not only will the cards help the party workers gain a sense of identity but also ensure the re-election of Palaiswami as general secretary if the call of convening the general council turns vociferous, forcing the party honchos to accept it. Besides, the top leaders who are averse to the idea of Sasikala returning to helm the party, are also doing their best to ensure that Palaniswami remains in his present position. On the other hand there are fence sitters at all levels of the party hierarchy who might feel that there is a need for change in leadership. Since the mention of a new general secretary is likely to spring too many contenders to the fore in the party that once had just one leader, Jayalalithaa, with everyone else remaining loyal followers, Sasikala feels that she could emerge as the common candidate acceptable to the majority. It is a different matter that Sasikala might not be able to contest in any election till 2027 and hence cannot aspire to become the Chief Minister by leading her party to a win in the 2026 Assembly elections. That she can head the party, as there is no bar on that, and choose the Chief Minister candidate is enough motivation for her to go for the kill. The party chief post would also plunge her into the thick of politics once again and she could play the game from Poes Garden, from where Palaniswami and cohorts chased her out. She has managed to retrieve the palatial mansion opposite to Veda Nilayam, the house of Jayalalithaa, from the clutches of the Enforcement Directorate that had sealed the building even as it was getting ready for her to live there. Though she would have liked to play her political games from Veda Nilayam, which has been taken over by the government and converted into a memorial, she is happy to at least manage the affairs of AIADMK from its vicinity. Also she has regained control and revived the other landmarks associated with Jayalalithaa the Kodanad Estate in the Nilgiris, the Siruthavur bungalow and Payyanur bungalow. So to get into the shoes of Jayalalithaa, all she has to do is to get hold of the reins of the party. But with Palaniswami and his associates around, it might not be that easy. Whatever, a game of one-upmanship in the AIADMK is in the offing and that could offer an interesting political spectacle to watch.
TANGEDCOs innovation gets patent
Chennai : An innovation by the research and development division of the Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO), Flexible External Bellow for Transformer Insulation Preservation and Drying, has been granted a patent by the Union Governments Patent Office. Patent No: 531159, issued on 30.03.2024 for the concept, would be valid for a period of20 years from April 16, 2015, a press release from TANGEDCO said on Friday. Since moisture was one of the degrading agents to the life of the Transformer, conventional procedures employed to reduce moisture were inadequate, costly and complex, the release said. In this invention, a sealed expandable bellow is connected after the silica gelbreather of the Transformer. The conservator air space is filled with dry Nitrogen. When Transformer oil expands, Nitrogen gas in the conservator is pushed into the bellow. The reverse action happens at low loads, the release explained. The size of the bellow could be decidedbased on the capacity of the Transformer and the system would make a Transformer a sealed type, providing complete immunity from external moisture and oxygen, reducing Transformer maintenance cost, time and also failures, it added.
Technical glitch in aircraft causes inordinate delay for Chennai-bound air passengers
Tangedco officials directed to ensure uninterrupted power supply during summer
Traffic diversions announced for a year in T.Nagar from Saturday
The Greater Chennai City Traffic Police implements changes to facilitate flyover construction at Madley Junction - South Usman Road to North Usman Road flyover
Chennai Trade Centre to host first Automation Expo roadshow on May 3
CHENNAI: The long pending dispute between the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and the sports ministry has been casting serious doubt on Indian wrestlers' participation in the upcoming World Olympic Games Qualifier in Istanbul, Turkey from May 9 to 12. Expressing grave concerns over interference of the ministry in the WFI's affairs, the United World Wrestling (UWW) threatened that it would re-impose a temporary ban on the federation and this time even the athletes would be suspended. The letter written to the national sports federation said the suspension would apply to the final Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in May. We have been informed that the Wrestling Federation of India is once again threatened by your Ministry of Sports with the imposition of an ad-hoc committee to oversee its affairs, read the letter addressed to the WFI president Sanjay Kumar Singh. Adding further the letter said, Besides our lassitude for this additional affair impacting your federation and its members, we would like to reiterate UWWs determination to uphold the principle of autonomy and independence of its national federations in accordance with the UWW Statutes and the Olympic Charter. Going a step further, the world body said that even athletes will come under suspension this time which could affect their participation in the last Olympic qualifier. In case any decision or order should be made against your federation, and a third party be designated to run the daily affairs of our sport in India in violation of the UWW Statutes, UWW would have no other option than to re-impose a temporary suspension of your federation until further notice, and which, this time, could maybe include your athletes. This suspension would apply to the final Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in May, and will certainly attract the attention of the IOC on this matter, who may also consider further action, said the letter. Earlier in August last year, the UWW had placed the WFI under provisional suspension with immediate effect after the Indian body failed to hold an election in due course. The suspension was lifted on February 13 this year after a meeting of the UWW Bureau. While lifting the suspension, the UWW asked the WFI to reconvene the elections of its Athletes Commission. The WFI has also been directed to immediately provide UWW with written guarantees that all wrestlers will be considered for participation without any discrimination in all WFI events, in particular trials for the Olympic Games and any other major national and international events. This non-discrimination includes the three athletes who protested against alleged wrongdoings by the former President. Incidentally, the first mandated condition was fulfilled on Wednesday as the elections of the Athletes' Commission were held on the opening day of the Federation Cup in Varanasi.
DMDK urges TN govt to ban use of liquid nitrogen in food
These special trains to and fro Chennai to be run for one more month
Overall, the Real-life Investment Decision Experience (RIDE) elective at the Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, represents a transformative leap in finance education. This pioneering program equips finance majors with practical skills and strategic insights essential for navigating the complexities of real-world investment management. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, RIDE empowers future managers to make informed decisions, manage risks effectively, and achieve long-term investment success. With its rigorous curriculum, firsthand approach, and focus on market realities, RIDE sets a new standard for experiential learning in finance education, ensuring that students emerge as proficient and confident investment professionals.
Producer Sandesh Nagarajs Meeting With Kiccha Sudeep Sparks Collab Rumours
Sandesh paid a visit to the sets of the actors much-awaited film, Max, in Chennai.
Borderless Healthcare: 19-yr-old Pakistani teen finds hope in Indian heart transplant
Ayesha Rashid, a 19-year-old from Karachi, Pakistan, received a life-saving heart transplant in Chennai, India, after facing financial and health challenges. Dr. KR Balakrishnan and Aishwaryam trust provided crucial support, highlighting the collaborative efforts that made the transplant possible. Ayesha's story underscores the importance of international cooperation in healthcare and the impact of individual acts of kindness.
Film Heritage Foundations Restoration Of Shyam Benegals Manthan Premiere At Cannes
Film Heritage Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded by filmmaker and archivist Shivendra Singh Dungarpur has joined hands with Gujarat Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. to restore veteran Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegals national award-winning film Manthan that starred the late iconic film actress, Smita Patil. As Amul marks its golden jubilee this year, the 4K restoration of the 1976 film has been selected for the official red-carpet world premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. Noteworthily, Mathan is the only Indian film to be selected under the Cannes Classic section of the festival this year. Presenting at Cannes Film Festival for the third time in a row, Film Heritage Foundation has previously premiered Thamp (2022) and Ishanou (2023) at the prestigious film festival. Manthan, a fictionalized version of the beginnings of the extraordinary dairy cooperative movement that transformed India from a milk-deficient nation to the worlds largest milk producer inspired by Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of the White Revolution, is also Indias first crowd sourced film produced by 5,00,000 dairy farmers who contributed INR 2/- each towards the production of the film. The film premiere will be attended by Naseeruddin Shah, the family of the late Smita Patil, the producers of the film and Film Heritage Foundations Shivendra Singh Dungarpur. Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Director, Film Heritage Foundation states, I am so delighted that Film Heritage Foundation will have a red-carpet world premiere of another one of our restorations of an Indian cult classic at the Cannes Film Festival. The restoration of a Shyam Benegal film has been on Film Heritage Foundations wish list for years as he is one of Indias most venerated filmmakers whose early films were iconic in Indias Parallel Cinema movement. The restoration process has been an incredible experience, especially working so closely with Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani to painstakingly bring the film back to life. Almost half a century later, the power of the narrative and the compelling performances of the actors, especially Smita Patil, remains undiminished. I wish she was here to see the beauty of the restoration. Shyam Benegal states, I was absolutely delighted when Shivendra told me that Film Heritage Foundation was going to restore Manthan in collaboration with the Gujarat Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. Manthan is a film that is very close to my heart as it was funded by 500,000 farmers and was instrumental in the growth of an extraordinary cooperative movement that was aimed at breaking the shackles of economic inequality and caste discrimination whilst empowering the farmers. It will remind the world of the power of cinema as a vehicle of change and also the legacy of the great Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution. Govind Nihalani and I have been following the progress of the restoration closely and I am amazed by the meticulous approach to the restoration. It is wonderful to see the film come back to life almost like we made it yesterday. Film Heritage Foundation has been doing remarkable work in film restoration. Not only are they beautifully restoring films from every region of India, but bringing them back to the public at festivals and screenings around the world in a way that showcases our unique film heritage to contemporary global audiences. Naseeruddin Shah states, I started my career as an actor with Nishant followed by Manthan, both directed by Shyam Benegal. Manthan was a runaway success when it was released almost 50 years ago and it is a film that is remembered even today. I remember that during the shooting of 'Manthan,' I lived in the hut, learnt to make cow dung cakes and milk a buffalo. I would carry the buckets and serve the milk to the unit to get the physicality of the character. I am so glad that the Film Heritage Foundation has restored this remarkable film and that this small film made with the support of the farmers has been restored with so much love and care. It is thanks to the persistence, hard work and efforts of Film Heritage Foundation that the film will be premiered in its second life, as it deserves to be, at the Cannes Film Festival and I am so glad that I will be there to present it myself. Govind Nihalani states, It is remarkable that Film Heritage Foundation is restoring Manthan nearly fifty years since it was made. Being involved in the restoration has been an emotional experience. It has taken me back to 1976 when the entire unit lived like a family in the village of Sanganva in Gujarat for 45 days during which the film was shot. The shooting was challenging because we had to use a patchwork of different film stock Eastman and Gevacolor besides Kodak, 35 mm for the film and 16 mm for the film within the film. I began my career as a cinematographer with Shyam Benegal first shooting ad films and then his early feature films. Weve had an immensely creatively satisfying relationship over the years as Shyam involves you as a partner in the creative process of the film and not just as a cameraman. I am so happy to hear that the restoration of the film will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this year. THE RESTORATION PROCESS Film Heritage Foundation used the best surviving elements for the restoration the original 35 mm original camera negative and the 35 mm release print preserved at the NFDC NFAI. Unfortunately, the sound negative was not available. The sound was digitized from the 35 mm release print preserved at Film Heritage Foundation. The film elements were repaired by the Film Heritage Foundation conservators and the scanning was done in Prasad Lab in Chennai. They found that due to the deterioration of the print there were vertical green lines on many parts of the film. While the scanning and digital clean-up was done at Prasad under the supervision of LImmagine Ritrovata in Bologna, the grading, sound restoration and mastering was done at the lab in Bologna. Both Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani, the cinematographer of the film, have been involved in the restoration of the film. RESTORATION CREDITS Restored by Film Heritage Foundation at Prasad Corporation Pvt. Ltd.s Post Studios, Chennai and LImmagine Ritrovata Laboratory, in association with Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd., the cinematographer Govind Nihalani and the director Shyam Benegal. Funding supported by Gujarat Co-Operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. CAST AND CREW DETAILS Manthan (The Churning), India, 1976, Shyam Benegal 134 mins, Colour, Hindi, English Subtitles, Aspect Ratio 1.37:1 Direction: Shyam Benegal, Story idea by: V. Kurien and Shyam Benegal, Screenplay: Vijay Tendulkar, Dialogue: Kaifi Azmi, Cinematographer: Govind Nihalani, Editor: Bhanudas Diwkar, Sound: Hitendra Ghosh, Music: Vanraj Bhatia, Production Control: G. B. Ghanekar, Producer: Shyam Benegal/Sahyadri Films for Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. Cast: Girish Karnad, Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, Anant Nag, Amrish Puri, Kulbushan Kharbanda, Mohan Agashe, Sadhu Meher, Rajendra Jaspal, Abha Dhulia, Anjali Paigankar and the people of Sanganva
Airtel honoured for offering best voice experience on 5G network
Chennai, Apr 26: Telecom major Bharti-Airtel on Friday said it has been awarded for providing the best voice experience on the 5G network in Tamil Nadu circle, as per a report by OpenSignal. OpenSignal is a global standard for analyzing mobile experience and a guide in understanding customer experience. According to the report, Bharti-Airtel also leads in providing seamless connectivity to its telecom users and in using the over the top (OTT) services, a company statement said. The telecom major [] The post Airtel honoured for offering best voice experience on 5G network appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
IPL 2024: I Would Like To See Shivam Dube In The Indian T20 WC Squad, Says Yuvraj Singh
Indian T20 WC: Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh has picked Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson as the wicketkeeper batter options for Indias T20 World Cup and identified Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah as a key player. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has to finalise the 15-member India squad ahead of the May 1 deadline for boards to submit their Mens T20 World Cup squads. The most toughest choice will be the wicketkeeping option as there are multiple options starting from Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik. In a video posted by ICC on Friday, Yuvraj Singh was unveiled as an ambassador for the T2O WC 2024 tournament and picked his Indian squad for the event. Yuvraj identified the World's No.1 ranked T20I batter Suryakumar Yadav as the player who must have a good tournament in the USA and Caribbean if India are to claim the title, while he also suggested pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah needs to be at his best. Suryakumar Yadav (is India's key player), Yuvraj suggested to ICC. Because the way he plays, he can change the complexion of a game in 15 balls. And he is definitely a suretyfor India to win this T20 World Cup, Surya is going to be the key, I think Jasprit Bumrah is also the key with the bowling and I would like to see a leg-spinner in the squad as well, like Yuzvendra Chahal as he has been bowling really well. But being a batter, I would say Suryakumar Yadav (is the key player), he added. Suryakumar after missing the first three games for Mumbai Indians due to injury made his comeback and has amassed 140 runs in five matches. However, the most surprising name on the list could be Dinesh Karthik, who is yet again claiming the spot at his best. He has scored 262 runs in nine matches at a stunning average of 52.40. While Yuvraj has been impressed by what Karthik has been able to do in the IPL this year, he believes the veteran keeper should only win a place in India's squad for the T20 World Cup if he is guaranteed a spot in the playing XI and suggested Pant and Samson as a wicket-keeper option for India. DK (Karthik) has been batting well, but the thing with DK is the last time (2022) they picked him and the T20 WC was on he didnt get to play, Yuvraj noted. If DK is not in your XI I dont think there is any point in picking him. There is Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson and both guys are in great form and obviously they are younger. I would like to see DK in the mix, but if he is not going to play then you would rather have someone who is younger and can make the difference. In nine matches of IPL 2024, Pant scored 342 runs in nine innings, averaging 48.86 at a strike rate of 161.32. With the gloves, Pant has been massively impactful, taking 10 catches and effecting three stumpings. Samson has shown the consistency and ability to make big scores, as seen from his 314 runs coming at an average of over 50 and a strike rate above 150. Yuvraj also wanted to see more explosive batters utilised in India's middle-order at the T20 World Cup and has identified Chennai Super Kings left-hander Shivam Dube as one player that he wants to see feature. IPL 2024 has also seen Dube garner runs against fast bowlers, especially against short balls, which has been his nemesis for a long time. With conditions in the West Indies expected to aid spinners more, Dubes presence will be all-important for India and utilise his spin-hitting prowess. Dube has amassed 311 in 8 matches for Chennai with an average of 51.83. I would like to see Shivam Dube in the squad, Yuvraj said. He has been in and out of the (India) team, but this IPL he has been batting very well and he is someone who can be the game-changer. There are a lot of other guys who have been playing for a while now, but I would like to see Shivam Dube in the mix, he said. Yuvraj also suggested Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should consider giving up on playing T20I cricket after the completion of the T20 World Cup and concentrate on other formats. As you get older people start talking about your age and they forget about your form, Yuvraj started. These guys have been great players for India, and they deserve to go (retire) when they want. I would like to see more younger players in the T20 format because it gets the load off them (experienced players) playing 50-over (ODIs) and Test matches. After this (T20) World Cup I would like to see a lot of younger guys come into the team and make the T20 side for the next World Cup, he added.
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**Yuvraj Singles Out Surya and Bumrah as India's Pivotal Players in T20 World Cup**
**Yuvraj Singles Out Surya and Bumrah as India's Pivotal Players in T20 World Cup** Former India star Yuvraj Singh has identified the swashbuckling Suryakumar Yadav and pace ace Jasprit Bumrah as key to the team's prospects in the upcoming T20 World Cup owing to their ability to ''change the complexion of a game'' in a jiffy. Yuvraj, who was pivotal to India's title triumph in the inaugural edition of the tournament back in 2007, said Suryakumar will need to have a good outing for the team to win the cup for the second time while also suggesting that Bumrah needs to be at his best. ''Suryakumar Yadav (is India's key player),'' Yuvraj was quoted as saying by ICC. He added, ''Because the way he plays, he can change the complexion of a game in 15 balls. And he is definitely a surety for India to win this T20 World Cup, Surya is going to be the key. ''I think Jasprit Bumrah is also the key with the bowling and I would like to see a leg-spinner in the squad as well, like Yuzvendra Chahal as he has been bowling really well. ''But being a batter, I would say Suryakumar Yadav (is the key player).'' While dissecting the options of who should be India's first-choice wicket-keeper, Yuvraj expressed satisfaction with veteran Dinesh Karthik's form in the IPL but said if he is not part of the playing XI, there is no point picking the 38-year-old in the squad as the younger Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been playing extremely well. ''DK (Karthik) has been batting well, but the thing with DK is that the last time (2022) they picked him and the T20 WC was on he didn't get to play,'' Yuvraj noted. ''If DK is not in your XI I don't think there is any point in picking him. There is Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson and both guys are in great form and obviously they are younger. ''I would like to see DK in the mix, but if he is not going to play then you would rather have someone who is younger and can make the difference.'' Rohit and Virat have earned the right to decide on their future ====================================== Yuvraj knows just how important Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are to India's fortunes in the T20 showpiece and refused to put an end date on when he thinks the duo should retire from international cricket. Instead, Yuvraj suggested that Rohit and Kohli should consider giving up on playing T20I cricket after the T20 World Cup and concentrate on other formats. ''As you get older people start talking about your age and they forget about your form,'' Yuvraj stated. ''These guys have been great players for India and they deserve to go (retire) when they want. ''I would like to see more younger players in the T20 format, because it gets the load off them (experienced players) playing 50-over (ODIs) and Test matches. After this (T20) World Cup I would like to see a lot of younger guys come into the team and make the T20 side for the next World Cup.'' Dube is the future star ============== Yuvraj picked Chennai Super Kings left-hander Shivam Dube as one player that he wants to see in the squad, thanks to his explosive batting. ''I would like to see Shivam Dube in the squad,'' he said. ''He has been in and out of the (Indian) team, but this IPL he has been batting very well and he is someone who can be the game-changer. ''There are a lot of other guys who have been playing for a while now, but I would like to see Shivam Dube in the mix,'' he added.
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Confused between the Creta N-Line & Seltos DCT: Which one to pick?
BHPian vijay.s recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Need help in choosing between the Hyundai Creta Turbo Petrol DCT Automatic / Creta N-line N10 DCT automatic / Seltos GTX Plus DCT Automatic. The Seltos being relatively old is getting some handsome discounts to the tune of Rs. 40K plus basic accessories kit free. However, there are no such offers for either the regular Turbo petrol Creta or the N-line Creta released just this week. When compared to the Regular Creta Turbo Petrol DCT Automatic, there is a price difference of approx 50K and approx 1L when compared to N Line DCT automatic. Note this difference does not account for any accessories beside the basic kit for 6K being provided by Hyundai. However, In seltos, I am getting 25K worth of accessories free too which the dealer refused to convert to cash in addition to the 40K discount. Is the price difference worth going with Seltos. Reason I am asking this question is primarily from the standpoint of safety being emphasized by Creta. I could personally feel the heaviness when lifting the bonnet too and even in the doors of facelift creta. Anyone else caught up in similar confusion? Heard from the folks at Kia that there is a price rise in the first week of Apr (after FY2023 ends) and hence need to make my decision fast Here's what BHPian contentedbloke had to say on the matter:I have been through a similar confusion. The deciding factor and the deal breaker was the UV cut glass which is available in the Seltos but not in the creta. In Chennai, without this feature, getting into a car under the sun would be very painful. The second factor was ride comfort which based on reviews is better in the Seltos GT rather than the N-Line because of the stiffer suspension. The third criteria is that regular creta has light colour seats which will become dirty under my household usage, and hence I prefer only dark seats. Ruled out regular creta completely due to this reason. While N-Line is preferred due to all black interiors, I prefer the Seltos due to the UV glass and ride comfortHere's what BHPian 07CR had to say on the matter:I guess it's just the mindgames. In a Hyundai showroom the SAs have been trained to emphasize on better build quality because Creta lacks the equipment of Seltos. With repeated such quotes our mind starts thinking on same lines. Cross posting from other thread regarding BHPian's observation on both cars structure. With additional discounts and the additional equipment which Seltos carries over Creta/ Creta N line, it's a no brainer for me.Here's what BHPian crenthu123 had to say on the matter:I do not know, why people are not thinking about the safety aspect of the current Seltos, the car is really unsafe and I have several examples for that. New Creta hopefully will receive a 5 star like Verna as it feels much more solid than the older creta. So, please consider this before making a purchase decision or wait for the next generation Seltos 2025'/26'.Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.
IPL: Vettori's message to SRH players after humbling defeat
Hyderabad: The Royal Challengers Bangalore on Thursday have put breaks to the winning streak of Sunrisers Hyderabad. SRH have won their last four matches against CSK, PBKS, RCB and DC. Daniel Vettori, the head coach of the SRH team has tried pumping some motivation to the players after a bad day at the office as he spoke to the players in the dressing room. As seen in the video released by SRH, Vettori said, We haven't played like we wanted but this throughout the course of the tournament happens to every team. The only equation is how we bounce back. So we quickly put this away, tidy us in a few areas and move on to the next game. The challenge for us is the next game at chennai. he added. Motivating the squad, he advised them saying Look at all the positives from today's game, hold on to those and just find those little improvements. At third position in the points table, SRH has 10 points and will face Chennai Super Kings in their next outing.
Ahead Of Selection Day, Looking At India's Likely Squad For The T20 World Cup
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah: Ahead of the May 1 deadline for teams to submit their Mens T20 World Cup squads, the discussion around who makes it to Indias squad for the mega event happening in the West Indies and USA from June 1 is at an all-time high. With every match in IPL 2024, the list of contenders for the Mens T20 World Cup selection gets a new addition. On the other hand, some surge ahead to be the front-runners through their scintillating performances. All of this makes it a problem of plenty for the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee to finalise the 15-member India squad, in terms of picking players on past performances or go by current form in IPL 2024. IANS looks at the likely 15-member India squad for the T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (captain) BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had announced in February this year that Rohit would captain Indian team in the mega event, just a month after he made his return to the format internationally through the Afghanistan series. In eight matches of IPL 2024, Rohit has amassed 303 runs with a strike rate of 162.9, including an unbeaten 105 against Chennai Super Kings. Virat Kohli Though Rohit opened with Jaiswal and Gill in the Afghanistan series, with Kohli batting at number three slot in two matches, this could change for the World Cup. Kohli, the leading run-getter in IPL 2024, could get promoted to open the batting alongside Rohit so that he can give a turbo-start in the powerplay, considering his tendency to slow down in middle overs, which was seen during his fifty against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday. Suryakumar Yadav The top-ranked mens T20I batter has been in scintillating touch in the last few years with his unorthodox strokeplay and consistently getting runs from it. After returning from an ankle injury and sports hernia surgery, Suryakumar has still been at his rollicking best despite two ducks, amassing 140 runs in five innings. In six T20Is in West Indies, his strike-rate is also at a high 161.19. Rishabh Pant The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter has been getting back to his best self since returning to competitive cricket after recovering from various injuries suffered in a life-threatening car accident in December 2022. In nine matches of IPL 2024, Pant has scored 342 runs in nine innings, averaging 48.86 at a strike-rate of 161.32. With the gloves, Pant has been massively impactful, taking 10 catches and effecting three stumpings. In the start, many were anxious about how Pant would fare after a long layoff. But as of now, hes shown that he takes up keeping loads very well, apart from finishing games with the bat. The only point of concern is his T20I record, where he averages 22.43 and has a strike rate of 126.37 in 66 games. Sanju Samson The choice for the second keeper will come to a toss-up between Samson and KL Rahul, with Dinesh Karthik also having an outside chance. But in current form, Samson has shown the consistency and ability to make big scores, as seen from his 314 runs coming at an average of over 50 and a strike rate above 150. Though he didnt make most of the few chances he got in the T20I set-up, Samson has shown that he can be a reliable option if given an opportunity. Shivam Dube Since the time Chennai Super Kings roped him ahead of IPL 2022, Dube has literally turned a corner in terms of batting in T20s. Dube was given the role of being the spin-hitter in middle-overs, which he has excelled in, thanks to his long reach and powerful shots. Based on his stellar IPL 2023, he made his return to the India T20I team and even bagged Player of the Series award in the Afghanistan series. IPL 2024 has also seen Dube garner runs against fast bowlers, especially against short balls, which has been his nemesis for a long time. With conditions in the West Indies expected to aid spinners more, Dubes presence will be all-important for India and utilise his spin-hitting prowess. Hardik Pandya The fast-bowling all-rounder hasnt been at his best with both bat and ball, as well as a leader of Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024. But with his closest competitor Dube not getting to bowl in IPL 2024 due to impact player rule, it means that Hardik will get into the 15-member squad due to the skillsets he possesses. In IPL 2024, Hardik hasnt been the prolific hitter hes known to be, making only 151 runs in eight innings and hitting just seven sixes. With the ball, hes bowled only 17 overs and picked just four wickets, at an economy rate of 10.94. Rinku Singh The left-handed batter shot to limelight with five sixes on last five balls of the innings against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023, a season where he continuously showed his finishing skills. He would make his India T20I debut later in the year and amass 356 runs in 15 games, staying not out in seven of them at a high strike rate of 176.23. Though he hasnt got many chances to be the finisher for KKR in IPL 2024, as their top order has done bulk of scoring so far, Rinku can be trusted to excel as a finisher in the World Cup. Ravindra Jadeja Though Jadeja has taken four wickets in IPL 2024 for the Chennai Super Kings and made 157 runs with the bat, including struggling to break free while batting at times, his experience of playing previously in the West Indies and being a clutch player in the format, especially with conditions aiding his bowling, makes him a worthy addition for the World Cup. Kuldeep Yadav The left-arm wrist-spinner has had a stellar time in the format since being picked by Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2022. Strong performances in IPL since then (including 12 wickets in six matches), along with an international return and taking a five-wicket haul against South Africa last year on his birthday, Kuldeep is sure to be the lead spinner for India in the World Cup at West Indies. Jasprit Bumrah India had badly missed Bumrah's X-factor when he missed the 2022 T20 World Cup due to a back injury which needed surgery. But since then, Bumrah excelled on return to international cricket and is now all set to lead the charge for India in the 2024 T20 World Cup. In IPL 2024, Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker with 13 wickets in eight matches firing his yorkers and other deliveries with panache and precision. Arshdeep Singh With Mohammed Shami recovering from Achilles surgery and Mohammed Siraj not being in the best of form in IPL 2024, it means that Arshdeeps role will be much more important in a format which paved his entry into the Indian team and took 10 scalps in 2022 T20 World Cup. Though his form has been up and down in the international games as well as in IPL 2024, Arshdeeps skillsets of bowling in power-play and death overs can be handy for India in the World Cup. Avesh Khan Avesh has shown a lot of improvement in his death overs bowling in IPL 2024 and has eight wickets from as many matches with an economy rate of 9.41, with his wide yorkers and slower balls being his go-to deliveries. Apart from bowling well in death overs, Avesh can be the enforcer in middle overs if needed, in case the Indian team doesnt select Siraj. Yashasvi Jaiswal The left-handed opener had a string of low scores in IPL 2024, but roared back into form with a 59-ball century against Mumbai Indians. With Shubman Gill also in the mix, Jaiswal could be given the nod by selectors mainly due to the variety and aggression he brings at the top, though clamours have been largely towards a Kohli-Rohit opening combination. Axar Patel Though there are specialist leg-spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravi Bishnoi in contention for the World Cup squad, Axar stands out mainly due to his all-round skillsets. Though he hasnt taken many wickets with the ball, Axar has been able to do the holding job while operating in tandem with Kuldeep. With the bat, his promotion to three proved to be master stroke as he made an IPL best score of 66, and took boundaries aplenty against spinners. Moreover, hes also a very handy fielder, which makes his case of getting to the World Cup stronger as compared to Chahal and Bishnoi.
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IPL 2024: Vettori Wants SRH To Change Its Approach In Chasing The Target
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: After Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) suffered a loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), head coach Daniel Vettori urged the players to focus not only on putting big runs on the board but successfully chasing targets as well. RCB broke the SRHs consecutive four-match winning streak after beating them by 35 runs at their home ground Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Chose to bat first, RCB banked on Rajat Patidars 19-ball half-century and Virat Kohlis 51 to post a total of 206 /7 in 20 overs. Considering that SRH has scored two of the biggest totals this season, it was a chasable target for them but they failed to gain any momentum and slumped to their third defeat of the season. Vettori dwelled on the learning from the loss and asked the team to shift focus on the upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings. Vettori felt the approach towards chase should be different but didn't want to change his side's aggressive game style. I think you know, we have been successful setting totals, and now we have to look at our way of chasing, and we come up against a really good team in Chennai. And so, I suppose for us removing ourselves from this game and understanding that the Chepauk wicket would be different, and we are going to have to go about it in a different manner. So, we've only got a couple of days to put that into place. But I still think on this ground, these surfaces, we're gonna have to be aggressive and take the game off, Vettori said in the post-match press conference. Despite their third loss in eight games SRH are firmly placed on third position in the points table and will next face Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk on Sunday.
