New CPI(M) committee office in Kannur to house historic ledger

The ledger, kept at the party district committee office Azhikodan Samaraka Mandiram, written by comrade Sreenivasan, who became the party office secretary in 1970, stands as a valuable testimony to the partys legacy

Bird hit forces Air India Express flight to return at Kannur airport

The aircraft took off at 6.36 a.m. with 180 passengers on board, but returned back to the airport 45 minutes later

Kerala must now focus on generating resources: Prof M Satish Kumar

KOCHI: With the Kerala Urban Policy nearing formal adoption, Prof M Satish Kumar, chairman of the Kerala Urban Policy Commission, which was tasked with preparing it, spoke to TNIE on the states challenges and possibilities on the sidelines of the two-day Urban Conclave, which concluded in Kochi on Saturday. Excerpts: Given the shifting demographics and trends, what are the challenges faced by Kerala in implementing an urban policy? The Kerala model has raised awareness of participatory governance and equity. The challenge is to improve local self-governance and efficiency. Urban governance must consider scale Kochis Metropolitan Planning Committee (MPC) will vary from Kozhikode or Kasaragods. We are still dependent on analogue systems that are prone to errors and corruption; digitalisation is vital. Despite literacy, civic responsibility is low. Climate-resilient planning is slow, while Kerala faces threats of climate change, droughts in the midlands, and ignored wetlands that worsen floods. Guest workers remain unintegrated into state policies. What are the basic-level changes required to ensure proper urbanisation? Households must take responsibility for waste management. The 3Rs Reduction, Reuse, and Recycle are ignored. Kerala, with limited land, must adopt zero landfills. Citizens should not allow dumping in wetlands. We must start with youth and actively endorse environmental sustainability. What potential does Kerala hold in becoming an IT, economic and cultural hub? Economic sustainability is crucial. We must move away from dependence on state transfers and create bankable projects to access central funds. Keralas urban clusters Palakkad, Kochi-Ernakulam, and Kozhikode-Kannur can drive growth if linked to their economic strengths. What were your priorities in formulating the policy? We focused on the ageing population and the out-migration of youth. Urban policy has often been top-down. But we combined top-down with bottom-up approaches, consulting stakeholders on their vision for future cities. Innovation was key, including suggestions like geocoded data for better resource generation. We placed recommendations for both politicians and bureaucrats. The state is focusing on welfare projects. Will that be enough? It ensures political stability but not sustainability. Kerala must generate its own resources through a circular economy and monetising nature-based products. That is the only way to achieve economic sustainability.

Kerala urban push: Fintech hub, fashion city on cards

KOCHI: Keralas new urban vision aims to turn its cities into specialised growth centres, linking economic development with local strengths while ensuring fair distribution of resources. The Kerala Urban Planning Commission (KUPC) has recommended a slate of city-specific clusters from a Thrissur-Kochi Fintech hub and a Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam Knowledge Corridor to a Kannur Fashion City and Kozhikode Literature City. Industrial Smart Cities are planned for Palakkad and Kasaragod, while Kannur-Kasaragod and Thrissur-Ernakulam will be developed as education and health hubs. According to experts, the proposals build on Keralas distinctive development model that balanced social equity with growth, but they also warn that the next leap requires fresh state-led investments. Kerala has been good at distributing resources and able to provide employment, and spatial and social transformation. The majority of growth and employment in the state comes from the tertiary sector. Now Kerala needs state-led investment plans. Capacity to invest should also be improved. So the state has a role of catalyst and needs to reinvent the city structure, said Tikendar Singh Panwar, former deputy mayor of the Shimla Municipal Corporation and a member of KUPC. The focus is not just on Keralas traditional growth hubs. Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are saturated now. We need to focus on Malabar areas. With Mangaluru port and Kannur airport nearby, we have better connectivity. The traditional industries in Malabar areas should be revived and developed, said K S Hari, another KUPC member. Hari added that Kerala must turn its knowledge base into enterprise. Also some of the prominent banks and financial firms in India are from the Thrissur-Ernakulam areas. So we have people who have knowledge. The presence of higher education institutions in Thiruvananthapuram can help make the area a knowledge corridor. We need to translate knowledge and come up with industries, he said. Panwar said Keralas urban trajectory is distinct, with cities merging into rural belts and an industrial policy already in place. One of the pillars of urban development happens to be the co-drivers. Kerala is different in the way the evolution and distribution have happened. Now cities are expanding to rural areas. Also, the state has an industrial policy. We tried to bring in some formulations after referring to the industrial policy, he added. The roadmap is expected to anchor the states upcoming Nava Kerala Urban Policy, which seeks to marry economic growth with inclusive and sustainable urbanisation. Proposed projects Thrissur-Kochi Fintech hub Palakkad and Kasaragod Industrial Smart Cities Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam Knowledge Corridor Kannur Fashion City Kannur-Kasaragod and Thrissur-Ernakulam education and health hubs Kozhikode Literature City The two-day Urban Conclave in Kochi, which brought together 3,115 delegates and 275 speakers, concluded on Saturday with a strong call to professionalise urban governance and prepare Keralas cities for a sustainable future. The conclave saw participation from urban experts from 12 countries, three ministers, four foreign mayors, and eight mayors from Indian states. Minister for Local Self-Government, M B Rajesh, said recommendations include creating business development councils for cities, establishing fact-based governance systems, and setting up urban observatories in all cities within two years, backed by a state-level observatory. Recommendations focus on professionalising urban governance through participatory professionalism, performance-based grading of local bodies and officials, and enhancing citizen participation using technology. A dedicated authority for waste management coordination, digitisation to improve tax collection, leveraging climate funds and green bonds, and encouraging investments from the Malayali diaspora were also proposed, Rajesh said. The event also saw the signing of Letters of Intent with UN-Habitat and UNU-CRIS, and the release of a child- and youth-friendly city charter prepared under the UNICEFs guidance.

Special health clinic for women to be launched on September 16

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has announced that special wellness clinics for women will be launched at all 5,415 public health centres across the state. The clinics will function on every Tuesday. These clinics will focus on identifying and addressing a range of health issues, including malnutrition, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer screening, among others. The initiative is set to be officially launched on September 16. The minister urged women to make the most of this opportunity by attending the clinics and undergoing necessary health check-ups. She also called on health workers to actively encourage women in their communities to participate. Veena George made the announcement while addressing health workers via Facebook Live. Aardra Keralam Award The minister announced the Aardra Keralam Award 2023-24 for local self-government institutions (LSGIs) that have shown outstanding performance in the health sector. The award recognises the significant contributions made by LSGIs through the comprehensive health projects implemented in collaboration with the health department. These initiatives have brought about notable improvements in the states healthcare system. In the first prize category, the Vellinezhi grama panchayat in Palakkad, Palluruthy block panchayat in Ernakulam, Idukki district panchayat, Guruvayur municipality in Thrissur and the Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation have each been awarded Rs 10 lakh for their outstanding contributions. For the second prize, the Maneed Grama Panchayat in Ernakulam, Neeleswaram Block Panchayat in Kasaragod, Pathanamthitta District Panchayat, Mattannur Municipality in Kannur, and the Kollam municipal corporation have been selected. They will receive cash awards ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 7 lakh.

Plastic bottle return scheme: Bevco collects 7,960 bottles

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) collected 7,960 bottles on Friday under its plastic bottle return scheme, which was launched on Wednesday. A source said outlets started receiving bottles from the very first day. Most of the returns were of smaller quantities, and in some cases, customers brought bottles back within hours of purchase. The pilot phase of the scheme has been rolled out at 10 outlets each in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur. Bevco plans to expand it to all outlets across the state by January 2026. Under the scheme, customers purchasing liquor in plastic bottles pay a refundable deposit of Rs 20. All plastic bottles at these outlets carry a QR code, and the deposit is refunded when the used bottle is returned to the same outlet, provided the label remains intact. The Bevco plans to set up dedicated return counters manned by Kudumbashree workers. Once returned, the stickers on the bottles will be defaced at the counter.

Santhy Balachandran opens up on Lokah, Dulquer's support, yakshis and feminism

This Onam was doubly sweet for Santhy Balachandran. The multifaceted Santhy, who first stepped into cinema with Dominic Aruns Tharangam in 2017, has returned to the spotlight with Lokah: Chapter 1: Chandra. The sensational blockbuster not only marks her debut as a writer but also credits her as dramaturgist, a role still unfamiliar to many in our cinema. Together with Dominic, she has spun a universe where Keralas yakshi myths entwine with the Wests vampire lore, creating a spectacle that feels both rooted and wildly imaginative. An Oxford anthropology graduate who chose to abandon a prestigious PhD programme in favour of art, she brings to Lokah the weight of her feminist lens. With her creative ideas, intellectual rigour, and collaborative spirit, she has made a difference both in the writing and the making of the film. She also appears in the recent series The Chronicles of the 4.5 Gang by filmmaker Krishand. Between hopping across cities for promotions, she sits down for a free-wheeling conversation with TNIE, opening up about her process, dramaturgy, love for art, fashion, and more. Excerpts Could you tell us about your journey into the world of art? I am lucky because I got into a creative space early in my life, with painting being my first creative medium. After school, I used to go to Kerala Kalapeedam, where many senior artists worked. My parents, both bankers, have always given me the freedom to pursue my interests. A few years ago, we even did a family project. My father translated Rabindranath Tagores Gitanjali into Malayalam, I did illustrations for it, my mother edited, and my brother handled the tech aspects. In college, I acted in Mahesh Dattanis play Thirty Days in September. That was my first time on stage as an adult, and it was a wonderful experience. After that, I went to Oxford for higher studies in anthropology. Before that, I did psychology. Rather than becoming a practising psychologist, I was more interested in how culture shapes our personalities. On returning to Kerala, I auditioned for a play called The Lover. Dominic [Arun] happened to see its trailer, which got me the role in Tharangam. Around the same time, Prem Shankar, who directed Randuper, also saw the footage and asked if I would like to be part of his film. Nothing was planned, but the desire to express myself creatively has always been there. Although your career in films started eight years ago, it has not been easy. What keeps you going? Family support is crucial. There were times I had no money in my account. Not having to worry about rent or food is a huge privilege. My friends have also been vital collaborators. We started working on Lokah five years ago, so it is not an overnight success. Dominic made Tharangam in 2017, and both of us went through years of struggle. The collaboration kept us going. Friends who saw potential in us kept us motivated. In 2020, Dominic pitched the original idea of a vampire or yakshi living in present times, set in an urban environment. That idea drew us all in. The project then evolved in scale and scope through discussions with the creative team, including myself, Nimish (Ravi), and Jithin Puthenchery. We pitched it to Dulquer Salmans Wayfarer Films in 2023 while Nimish was working with him on King of Kotha. He believed in our vision and saw the potential for creating a universe. We then worked out how the story could progress beyond the first film and created a pitch bible with the future instalments and new characters. Both the production and creative teams were on the same page, which is why we could wrap the shoot in 94 days. Notably, `30 crore is a huge budget for a Malayalam film, but we still had to utilise it effectively to create a credible universe. Nimish and Dominic also share similar aesthetic vision and keep bouncing ideas. Being a tech phobe, it was a huge learning experience for me to see how they execute these ideas. My defining trait from childhood has been the thirst to learn, and a film set is a perfect place for that. In these five years, did self-doubt and insecurities ever creep in? Yes, there were times when we even wondered if this film would ever get made. But I remember often telling Dominic that the only thing that separates a person who makes it and one who doesnt is grit and not talent. With people all over talking about Lokah, whats your current mental state like? I am extremely grateful. Brands are now creating ad campaigns inspired by our film. I was over the moon when Amul came up with a billboard. Its also interesting to see people picking up even minute details. As creators, this is what we dream forpeople embracing our work and making it their own. I am also getting messages from women who want to work in cinema as they now start believing that a female-led film can do such big numbers. But its also true that Im here because I had male collaborators giving me that space. Its difficult to break through the glass ceiling on your own, and you need allies. Starting from Dominic, everybody gave me the space to bring in my perspectives, which they might not have thought of earlier. Its the same with Naslen also, who would have had people trying to dissuade him from taking up this project after delivering a major hit. But he said he saw potential in this film and can look back at it proudly after 10 years. Its a sign of a generational shift. Dulquer also trusted us to kickstart a new universe with a female-led film. It would have been safer to begin with a male hero, but he backed our original idea. On the films release day, I sent him a message saying, Ive never been this nervous for a film release. I just hope we all go to bed happily tonight. He replied, saying, For once, Im not nervous because I know everybody worked sincerely. Lets just wait for the audiences response. Coming from a producer, it was so reassuring. When the first look came out, many were unsure of how Kalyani would pull off this role... The central figure is a yakshi, and Yakshis are usually associated with a certain level of fragility and immense destructive power. We also had other options, but when Kalyanis name was put forward, the first image that crossed my mind was of Lissy maam in a white saree from Oru CBI Diary Kurippu. She is similarly fragile and victimised in that film, and I immediately felt a connection that Kalyani would be the right person for Chandra. Dominic had also watched Antony, and he could see the effort she put into the action sequences. Dulquer was also convinced about her. We signed Kalyani in December 2023, and started shooting in September next year. During that period, she got in touch with our action choreographer Yannick Ben, who guided her about the preps. She also trained with an MMA coach. She completely submitted to Dominics process. He gave her music that Chandra would listen to, which was about immortality and the weight of existence. Kalyani is also expressive and not the contained person that we see in this film. Dominic would keep asking her to cut reactions, and she trusted him. You have been credited for additional scriptwriting and dramaturgy, which is not something we usually see here... Life wouldve been much simpler if I had just taken the co-writing credit! (laughs) Theres been so much discussion around it, but I chose to be credited for dramaturgy because I wasnt just involved in ideation, research, and scriptwriting I was also actively part of the production process. We were building an entire world, and to keep that world logical and visually consistent, I worked closely with the art team, the costume department, and even the lyricists. A dramaturg helps create a cohesive vision across all elements of a production. I like to say: if the director is someone in labour, the dramaturg is the midwife (laughs)! Writing with Dominic was a lot of fun, but being part of this project was a full 360-degree experience. For example, in the flashback scenes, the idol worshipped by the king and the one revered by the indigenous community are stylistically different. The tribal goddess was inspired by the fertility cultmore rounded, carved in stone. I worked with art director Jithu Sebastian, sharing reference images and discussing every detail for that. I also worked with Archana [Akhil Rao], who handled costumes of Kalyani, Tovino and Dulquer, on the symbols, their narrative relevance... all of it. As a kid, I wanted to be many things, and a fashion designer was one of them! This project gave me a chance to collaborate with experts across fields. I also enjoyed deconstructing the origin story. We had long debates around Kathanar. I felt that since its essentially a superhero story centering a woman, we couldnt have a patriarchal religious figure taming her. That concept thalakkuka is all about control. And if she (Neeli) has agency, that concept wont fit. There was a question of whether we should tweak the origin story. I give credit to Dominic in really seeing value in my opinion. Another character I was invested in was Nachiyappa. I loved that Dominic envisioned a police officer as the villain. His reasoning was that we all instinctively feel a bit scared around cops. And I thought there was potential to critique authority through that character. His introductory scene is an homage to the yakshi lore a woman in a white saree at a crossroads. Traditionally, yakshis attack unsuspecting travellers. So, the whole dichotomy of prey and predator worked for me as a layer. And thats where we see the man first, who is supposed to be a protector, becoming a predator. But there was a hiccup with that scene. I wasnt there while it was being shot, and due to some miscommunication, the actor wore a regular saree instead of a white one. I was upset, but there was a time crunch, and it was raining, and the shoot had to continue. I literally started praying for it to rain harder, and it poured and how! Eventually, we decided to reshoot and this time, we got the costume right. How familiar were you with these myths and legends before starting the project? I was familiar with these myths and legends since childhood, as I used to read Aithihyamala and Greek mythology. My academic background also helped, especially in understanding narratives around social and political power and how myths get reinterpreted. This project became a platform for me to bring all that to life. Dominic could have made an entertaining film without me, but Im grateful he allowed me to add layers that deepen the story. For example, Nachiyappas mother has no lines, which was intentional. She represents the silent victim of patriarchy. He grew up in a toxic household with a misogynistic father whose core belieffear leads to respect, and respect to devotionshapes him. Meanwhile, Kutty Chandras mother teaches her a different code of honour, leading the two characters down very different paths. This ties beautifully with the yakshi myth and the symbolism of the crossroadsplaces where crucial decisions are made. The character of Nachiyappas superior officer offered a unique perspective on feminism... Since we were creating a misogynistic villain, it was important to show how that attitude manifests in different ways. Nachiyappas superior officer is empowered by her position, but is also a victim of internalised misogyny. She upholds patriarchal values and criticises him for not being man enough. This reflects reality: women can hold problematic views too. In Nachiyappas life, two women stand outone is completely voiceless and powerless, while the other is vocal and aggressive but still tied to patriarchy. Was it easy to incorporate such perspectives into a superhero film? It happened organically. We werent initially focused on delivering a specific message, but the story naturally had that potential. One of my favorite superhero films is Black Panther, which does this brilliantly. Its about indigenous African pride. Thats also alternate history, right? That kind of cultural depth was a big inspiration in shaping our narrative. The Kiliye Kiliye sequence has gone viral. Any particular reason behind choosing that song? It was the lyrics that attracted me. Dominic wanted a retro-feel, party-vibes song for the scene. I came across this song on Instagram and felt connected to the lyrics, Uyarangaliloode Pala Naadukal Thedi, which was in sync with Neelis journey. We were all stressed while shooting that scene as the outfit options didnt work at first. So, I went home to get my shoes for Kalyani, and the costume team tailored a dress on the spot. Poster of Lokah. Lokah goes beyond action to explore the characters loneliness. How did you decide it? One of Dominics inspirations was The Man from Earth, about a being who carries the existential weight of 14,000 years. I had earlier worked on Ennennum, which explores immortality and love. Another film I love is Only Lovers Left Alive, where vampires live for centuries. That world excited us, and we asked, What if they really lived among us? How did you come to the idea that only healthy bodies can adapt to the virus? Dominic researched conditions like porphyria, often called the vampire disease. We then asked: how does transformation happen? Why does one person change while another dies? We needed clarity on those rules. In Neelis case, she grows up in a nurturing environment, deeply connected to nature. Yakshi is also considered a nature spirit, a guardian of the tree she inhabits. Theres an ecological explanation there, which shapes why she becomes a Yakshi, while some of the people she bites dont. Why connect vampires with a virus? That also came from Dominic. During the pandemic, virus was everywhere, and he felt it was something people could relate to. It was a way of grounding the story, instead of relying on supernatural explanations. Thats why Kathanar explains it as something mixing in your body. The original draft had the word anu, but Kathanar is from the ninth century, long before germ theory. We couldnt say anukkal, as that came after the Renaissance. So the line was changed to something mixed in the blood, which made sense for that time. One of the criticisms is that you sacrificed the story of Chandra in the second half for universe expansion... We wanted this to be a standalone film, but also introduce the audience to a larger world. So the film should feed the elements. Nimish and editor Chaman suggested some addition, which suddenly expands the world. The cameos were also strategically placed to elevate the experience of the audience at the right time. At the end of the day, it is a commercial film. We are not claiming that we have the perfect script. We knew it was technically solid, but we were concerned whether it would connect with the audience. It is still not a perfect film. So all criticisms are welcome and valid. There are talks about Lokah being a woke, feminist, and anti-right-wing film... These readings are to be expected. If someone has such views, it makes sense from their perspective. It creates a debate and conversation. It is good for us to be mindful of what people feel when they watch the film, but you should also be true to what you want to convey. You cant create something when youre scared of what the audience is going to say. Could you tell us about Sunnys characterisation? The idea of three boys living on the opposite street was Dominics, inspired by Vandanam, but this is a more updated version, as there is no stalking. Sunny is a softer representation of masculinity, which people from this generation can relate to. Gen Z understanding has evolved, and there is nothing like, This should be how men and women interact with each other. Sunnys character is important in ensuring Chandra is able to finish off the villian. It is like the coexistence of genders. An ideal world is not one where women hold power and men are useless. The ideal world is where both of them are partners in doing the right thing. It was recently revealed that Mammootty plays Moothon, but many feel it should have been kept a secret for some more time... I think there is enough speculation already (laughs). Mammoootty sir has shown a lot of faith in the film. He once came to the sets, and it was like the principal coming for a surprise visit. Everyone was in their best behaviour. It also generated some interest in the film at that time. He was following the progress of the film. There was no guarantee about the cameo, but I think at some point, he liked what we were making and extended his support in the best way that he can. You seem to be vocal and opinionated about political and social issues. So if a role doesnt align with your views or sensibilities, how do you navigate it? I think as an actor, its valuable to push yourself outside your comfort zone and not restrict yourself to only characters that align with your own views. Im completely fine playing a character who does things Id never do in real life. But I always pay attention to what the story as a whole is trying to communicate. If that message doesnt align with me, or if it feels problematic, then Id probably step back. But if its simply a character doing wild things I wouldnt personally do, thats fine because thats exactly why Im an actor, to experience all of this without consequences. Theres a dialogue in The Chronicles of the 4.5 Gang about how you cant have both fun and political correctness... Krishand is very open to these discussions, and I wanted to be part of his world. He offers space to add things. I appreciate his self-awareness; he accepts the criticism that female characters arcs may not be fully explored, and recognises that as a man, there may be perspectives he misses. Men can write great female characters, but sometimes things go unnoticed because of their own rooted point of view. Did you feel that while writing Lokah with Dominic? There is definitely a difference. When we debate, we often ask whether political correctness or fun should take priority. But this film wouldnt have worked without the fun element. I think theres mutual respect for what each of us brings to the table. Beyond just writing a fun script, executing it the way he envisioned it and the overarching vision is something I admire. I could never have pulled this off on my own. Female-centric films usually focus on serious social issues, but that stereotype has been broken. Did you always envision Lokah as a mass entertainer? We never set out to make a political statement or introduce the first female superhero; the film developed organically, with layers added because there was space for them. Womens experiences arent only heartbreak and trauma. Womens stories can be fun too. Ente Sooryaputhrikku was emotional, yet entertaining, and Sookshmadarshini was a fun film that did really well. Interesting female characters have always existed, but for a long time, there was hesitation to invest in women-centric films, assuming audiences wouldnt come. Im glad its changing. It encourages more investment. The systemic issue that female-centric films only exist in the independent space needs to be broken. If Lokah encourages more writers to create such stories, thats wonderful. But female stars can only truly grow when theres also a significant female presence in male-led films. What was your moment of euphoria during your experience with the making of Lokah? One of the most emotional moments was watching the rough cut. The effort everyone had put in reflected on screen, and I felt really proud. Then, when the music was added, Jakes score for the forest portion gave me goosebumps. Thats the only place where we see Chandras emotions. It had to work for the audience to understand herwhy shes so stoic, and the trauma shes carried since childhood. Jakes also collaborated with lyricist Harinarayanan to create an alternate language for that sequence. Harinarayanan combined five languages to form a dialect called Mozhika. Through this, he captured the philosophy of indigenous folk as custodians of wisdom and protectors of nature. The lyrics in the title sequence reflect it beautifully. Hearing that for the first time blew me away. Do you find joy in placing Easter eggs, like the Palappoo or the Selines signboard... Yes. Both Dominic and I trip on these details. He has placed a poster of Vandanam in the boys house. Hes a huge Arsenal fan, so their jersey is hanging in their house. The old Kalliyangattu Neeli film on TV, Chandu reading Malayatturs Yakshi... There is a lot of foreshadowing. Naslen trying to tie his shoelaces, which had a pay off. All of these were planned. Is there any significance to the title Lokah? Lyricist Vinayak Sasikumar deserves credit for that. He was working on the song Shoka Mookam when he suggested the title. We had many options, but nobody was completely happy with any of them. Lokah felt apt because we are introducing a new world. Neelis current identity is Chandra Ananya, right? I love such details, especially when people discover them. I didnt want to add a fathers surname, but something fitting for the character. Ananya also suits the characters mystery. In her passport, you can see her fathers name as K Kannan, mothers as K Devi. The place is Kannur. Is it Kalliyankattu Kannan? Yes (laughs) And names like Michael and Charlie? If you see Michaels costume, there is an homage to Michael Jackson. Also, when Tovi mentions, I am leaving with Charlie, the audience knows who he is talking about. How did scriptwriting come about? I attended some screenwriting workshops in Oxford and found it really exciting. But I always had imposter syndrome. Even now, when people ask me if I want to be a director, I say no, because it is a job that requires immense clarity and a great people management skills, but I get stressed easily. I dont think I can be a director like Dominic or Krishand because they take the team along happily together. I dont want to be the one who loses it on set. Whats coming next as an actor? Ananthan Kaadu, scripted by Murali Gopy. Im also part of Krishands Masthishka Maranam and Kamal KMs next. Its an independent film about female friendships and travel. Did being of a darker skin tone ever affect you as an actor? I think there are certain ideas of what a female actor should look like, but many have broken those conventions, especially over the last ten years. Even earlier, we had darker-skinned actresses like Karthika whom I adore and Sharada maam. None of them were fair, and Malayali audiences have always embraced actors who perform, regardless of skin colour. In India, generally, fairness is equated with attractiveness. But Malayalam cinema tells rooted stories, and they dont require that aspirational level of beauty. A girl-next-door look is more than enough to carry a lead role. The most exciting things dont always happen to the most conventionally attractive person in the room. You are open about your ADHD. Since you handle multiple responsibilities, do you find it to be an advantage? It can be. My brain jumps to many things, which makes me curious. But there are challenges: anxiety, overstimulation, and time management. I had a late diagnosis. From the outside, I look composed, but underneath, it takes a huge effort to stay on track. My sense of time is messy, so even one task consumes a day because I have to plan backwards. But ADHD also makes me notice patterns and connections, which can help. Maybe thats why I became an actor you get to be different people. Team TNIE: Cithara Paul, Vignesh Madhu, Krishna PS, Vivek Santhosh, Najiya Nazrin A, Anna Jose, Supriya, Pranav VP, Harikrishna B (video), TP Sooraj (photos).

Kannur coconut plucker turns lifelong trade into journey across Asia and Gulf at 62

KANNUR : Purushothaman T V, a resident of Velloor in Payyannur, has turned his humble livelihood of coconut plucking into a ticket to see the world. With the firm belief thengu chadikkilla (coconut tree never cheats), the 62-year-old built his life around the trade, and in return, coconuts rewarded him with opportunities he never imagined. Once convinced that he would never step beyond the country, Purushothaman has now travelled to countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and several Arab nations. His journey stands as a testament to how dedication and faith in ones work can open doors to experiences far beyond expectations. Currently, he is preparing for his next trip, to Vietnam. I have always had a passion for travelling and exploring new places, Purushothaman tells TNIE . But during my childhood, financial limitations stood in the way. And being the eldest of three children, I had to start working at a young age, which also affected my education. His travels began with visits to temples like Sabarimala and Kollur Mookambika. I often visit these temples multiple times a year. Accompanying other devotees on these trips gave me the chance to explore not only the temples but also the places around them. These experiences brought me immense joy, not just in exploring new places but also in meeting and interacting with new people, he says. For Purushothaman, coconut palms are more than just a livelihood, they are a way of life. New places surprise me with their beauty While he earns his bread by plucking coconuts, he goes a step further by renting palm farms, harvesting the yield, and selling it himself. To supplement his income, he also supplies tender coconuts and coconut flowers for weddings, a demand that never seems to fade. What drives him most, however, is his deep faith in the trees he tends to. He believes coconut palms will always give generously if cared for with attention. Purushothaman says he works every day, believing that consistent hard work always brings the desired results. Each time he visits a new country, he feels it is the greatest one he has seen, only to realise that every country holds its own charm. New places continue to surprise me with their beauty, he says. Families for whom he works have also supported him in pursuing his travels. Though his wife, Sarojini, has little interest in travelling, she joined him on trips to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To fund his passion, Purushothaman contributes to various small chit schemes, which help make his journeys possible. The couple has two children.

Southern Railway announces ThiruvananthapuramMumbai special trains for Puja holidays

Southern Railway announced special trains between Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai in view of clearing extra rush of passengers during Durga Puja holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No.01463 Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Thiruvananthapuram North Festival Special will leave Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 4 pm from Sept. 25 to Nov. 27 on Thursdays to reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 10.45 pm on the next day (10 Services). In the opposite direction, Train No. 01464 Thiruvananthapuram North - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Festival Special will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 4.20 pm from Sept. 27 to Nov. 29 on Saturdays to reach Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 1 am on the next Monday (10 Services). These trains will have a Coach Composition: 01- AC Two Tier Coach, 06- AC Three Tier Coaches, 09- Sleeper Class Coaches, 04- General Second Class Coaches, 01- General Second Class Luggage cum Brake Van Coach (Divyangjan friendly) & 01- Generator Car Coach. They will stop at Thane, Panvel, Pen, Roha, Khed, Chiplun, Sangameshwar Road, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Sindhudurg, Kudal, Sawantwadi, Thivim, Karmali, Madgaon Junction, Karwar, Gokarna, Kumta, Murdeshwar, Bhatkal, Mookambika Road Byndoor, Kundapura, Udupi, Surathkal, Mangaluru Junction, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur Junction Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam Junction, Sashankota and Kollam Junction.

Two arrested for killing python, cooking its meat in Keralas Kannur

The arrests followed a tip-off received by Forest department

Stringent action against contractors who delay NH work: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Evaluating the slow progress of the National Highway construction in the state, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged the officials to take stringent action against the contractors who make such delays. Even though the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is working efficiently, construction work in certain areas, including Vadakara, Turavur and Thiruvananthapuram, shows only slow progress, the CM said in a review meeting here on Thursday. Instructing the officials to speed up the construction without any compromise on the scientific side, the Chief Minister also emphasised that arbitration works should be done on time. Due consideration should be given to Kerala's geography and population density while proceeding with the construction works, the CM said. Urging that construction work should go unhindered, the CM asked district collectors and the police chief to overlook it. He also stressed the case of Nadal in Kannur, where the underpass should be constructed to facilitate the passage of buses. As the buses have to now take a longer route, leading to protests by the local people, he asked to consider this as a special case. The government plans to complete the work of 480 kilometres by this December, and the 560 kilometres stretch by March 2026. The review meeting was also attended by PWD minister PA Muhammed Riyas, Industries Minister P Rajeeve, Power Minister K Krishnankutty, chief secretary A Jayatilak, DGP Ravada Chandrashekhar, district collectors, NHAI officials, among others.

Early ticket talk: Congress circles in Kerala speculate on 2026 election line-up

KOCHI: With the assembly elections less than six months away, the Congress in Kerala has quietly drawn up its first draft of probable candidates. If the indications from party circles are anything to go by, the list shows a mix of established leaders, fresh faces, and a dash of celebrity glamour. In Kochi, the buzz is around Henry Austin Jr., grandson of former Union minister and diplomat Henry Austin. Currently a Kochi Corporation councillor and national coordinator of the AICC Minority Department, Henry Jr. is the frontrunner for the Kochi assembly seat. His grassroots work and deep family roots in both Alappuzha and Kochi dioceses are seen as strong assets, particularly after delimitation tilted the constituency decisively towards a Christian-majority base. In 2021, Congress candidate and former mayor Tony Chammany lost to CPMs K J Maxi. With the seat back in play, party insiders believe Henry Jr. can reclaim it. In neighbouring Tripunithura, sources said sitting Congress MLA K Babu has opted out, citing health issues. The leadership is veering towards Raju P Nair, Ernakulam DCC general secretary, and a familiar face in television debates. Congress insiders believe his easygoing style could help retain the seat, though a section is batting for actor-comedian Ramesh Pisharody, a Congressman with popular appeal. The trickiest puzzle for Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, however, is finding a safe berth for his close confidant and Ernakulam DCC president Mohammed Shiyas. Sources said Congress plan is to wrest Kalamassery from CPMs heavyweight P Rajeeve through Shiyas. With Rajeeve credited for impressive development work, Congress admits that toppling him will be a Herculean task. That forces Congress to swap Kalamassery with Kochi seat going to IUML. In Thrikkakara, the partys safest seat in central Kerala, Uma Thomas and Kochi corporation councilor Deepti Mary Varughese are vying for the seat. Party insiders whisper that when Uma was fielded after the demise of her husband P T Thomas, there was an unwritten understanding that she would serve only one term. Elsewhere in Ernakulam, both Tony Chammany and KPCC Political Affairs Committee member Ajay Tharayil are now eyeing Vypeen, a seat where the Munambam waqf land issue has generated anti-LDF sentiment. Congress hopes to cash in on the discontent, even as local factions lock horns. It seems Satheesan has a name in mind, most likely an Ezhava candidate, for Vypeen, said a source. In Alappuzha, Shanimol Osman is likely to be fielded again, despite her loss in the 2021 elections. Moving beyond Ernakulam, the list is slowly crystallising. Aritha Babu (Kayamkulam) and Veena Nair (Nemom) are near-certain names. If Congress reclaims Changanassery from Kerala Congress, veteran Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan is likely to be moved to the constituency and Nattakam Suresh is a likely pick in Kottayam, sources said. Chengannur may see a fresh face in Jyothi Vijayakumar Rahul and Priyanka Gandhis trusted translator and a former journalist whose candidature ticks both legacy and merit boxes. Bindu Krishna too is seen as a sure entry, while Shama Mohammed, despite her high-profile presence, is unlikely to make the cut given resistance from local leaders. Among younger aspirants, M Liju is being looked at for an Ezhava-dominated seat, while Youth Congress leaders Rijil Makkutty (Kannur) and J S Akhil (Kazhakkootam) are strong contenders. In Kanjirappally, the name of Adv Mathew Antony, grandnephew of Accamma Cherian and K T Thomas (ex-MLA), who are both from the area, is being considered. Joseph Vazhakkan is lobbying for Muvattupuzha or Poonjar. If Vazhakkan is shifted to Muvattupuzha, sitting MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan may be accommodated in Perumbavoor. In that case, sitting Congress MLA Eldhose Kunnappilly may have to find another seat. The Palakkad race is clearer: Congress has almost finalised Sandeep Varier, betting on his organisational skills to revive the party in the constituency. This means discredited MLA Rahul Mamkootathil may not find a seat. Despite the buzz of names, the larger strategy seems familiar. In 2021, over 55% of Congress candidates were first-timers, and 60% were aged between 25 and 50. The party is likely to repeat that formula in 2026, banking on youth energy and new faces to counter anti-incumbency narratives. Last time, though the candidates were good, the seats chosen for them were not correct. This time, that will be rectified, a leader said. Though several MPs, including Hibi Eden and Kodikunnil Suresh, are keen to contest the assembly polls, sources said none of them may be considered. Despite early preparations, the Congress faces its old nemesis: inner-party rivalries. As one senior leader quipped, Finalising candidates early is one thing. Getting everyone to agree is the real election battle.

Fearing TTE action, cool drinks vendor jumps off moving train in Kerala

Ashkar, who was selling cool drinks on the AlappuzhaKannur Executive Express, was asked by the TTE to produce a ticket. When he failed to do so, the TTE allegedly warned him of legal action. Ashkar then reportedly jumped from the train and sustained injuries

14 children hospitalised after consuming shawarma in Keralas Kannur

Four children remain under treatment, while the others were discharged after receiving primary care

Threats, deaths: Custodial torture charges against Kerala police take troubling routes

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The case of Youth Congress leader Sujith V S has brought into sharp focus allegations of police brutality that keep surfacing across the state. Sujith, from Kunnamkulam, was taken into custody on April 6, 2023, after he intervened when police questioned his friends who were standing roadside at night. When he resisted, officers allegedly assaulted him. He was later released on bail. In the months that followed, Sujith sought CCTV footage of the incident through RTI, only to be told it was unavailable. After a two-year battle, involving multiple appeals and intervention by the Information Commission, he finally secured the visuals, which were released recently. Other incidents highlight a troubling pattern. On April 1, Gokul, 17, a tribal youth, was found dead inside Kalpetta police station. He had gone missing with a minor girl on March 23. Police raided their hamlet in Puthiyapady, seizing phones and threatening residents. The youths were taken into custody on March 31, and Gokul was found dead the next morning in the stations toilet. Relatives recalled prior threats by police that he would never see the outside world again. Two officers were suspended, and the case was handed over to the CBI. Couple alleges highhandedness, seeks visuals from Valappad station In Kozhikode, Muhammed Musthafa alleged that he and his brother Muneef were assaulted inside Panniyankara station after he filmed police behaviour following a traffic accident. IUML leader Mamukkoya also claimed harassment and illegal detention by police, with little action taken despite video evidence. Police had come to resolve the issue regarding the land dispute in an orphanage, had detained him for an hour, beat him up and then released him. Kasaragod and Kannur have had similar accounts. Sandeep, a BJP worker from Kasaragod, died in 2017 while being taken to a station, with his family alleging torture despite police citing cardiac arrest. Sandeep and his friends were arrested for drinking and causing ruckus. Following his death, the district BJP announced a hartal in Kasaragod and SI Ajeet Kumar was transferred to Armed Reserve. In Kannur, Unais, 32, died in 2018 after returning from custody with severe injuries. Relatives claimed that he had been bedridden ever since the incident.Unais was taken into custody by Edakkad police on February 22 after unidentified persons set fire to his father-in-laws bike. Though he was released the same evening, his brother alleged that he was unable to even stand when he returned home. C P Prathyush from Chirakkuni alleged he was beaten in a station area on July 5, 2022, without CCTV coverage after objecting to police instruction to leave Thalassery pier at night. He was booked on charges of attacking police and obstructing duty. After being granted bail by Thalassery Judicial First Class Magistrate Court on Tuesday, Prathyush said that he had been beaten by officers inside the station. In Pathanamthitta, DYFI Adoor Town regional secretary Hashim Mohammed alleged he was framed and brutally beaten by Adoor police in March 2020. Despite multiple complaints, the police denied the allegations, claiming Hashim had a history of criminal cases. K P Ouseph, a businessman used RTI to expose an alleged assault by officers at Peechi police station in Thrissur. The incident, which occurred on May 24, 2023, involved SI P M Ratheesh reportedly assaulting two hotel staff, Roni Johny and Lithin Philip. The altercation followed a dispute between the hotel staff and two customers over food quality. Ouseph claims that after the staff reported the incident to the police, they were detained and assaulted at the station. He also alleges that a bribe of `5 lakh was demanded to withdraw the complaint, with `3 lakh purportedly intended for the officers involved.

Case registered against BJP leaders on charge of protesting at Kannurs Madayipara

The case was registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for obstructing public transport on the Madayipara road and raising provocative slogans allegedly intended to create social unrest

Congress to stage statewide protest at police stations on Sept 10 against custodial assault case

KANNUR: KPCC president Sunny Joseph strongly criticised the suspension of police officials who assaulted Youth Congress leader V S Sujith inside and outside the Kunnamkulam police station, terming it an inadequate punishment. He demanded that a criminal case be filed against the officers involved and that they be permanently dismissed from service, stressing that mere suspension does not deliver justice for such a serious incident. On Wednesday, Congress workers will stage protest gatherings in front of all police stations across Kerala in connection with the incident. Sunny Joseph also stated that the Congress will raise the issue strongly in the Legislative Assembly. After unjustly taking Sujith into custody and brutally assaulting him, the police went on to file a false case, accusing him of being drunk. The court, relying on the medical examination, found the arrest unjustified and granted Sujith bail. The government is also in possession of a report by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Thrissur, stating that a sufficient investigation was conducted into Sujiths complaint. The Thrissur DIG noted that the police officers involved had their annual increments cut as a form of punishment following their conviction. However, KPCC president Sunny Joseph argued that this action was grossly inadequate considering the seriousness of the crime committed by the officers. Sunny Joseph demanded that a criminal case be filed against the guilty police officers. Suspension is not a punishment. Normally, it is just a procedure to prevent the accused from influencing the investigation. A punishment proportionate to the crime committed by the police officers is required, he said. Suresh Gopi condemns police misconduct; Youth Congress stages protest in Ulliyeri Kozhikode: Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi strongly condemned the recent custodial assault incident reported from Kunnamkulam, calling it nothing short of an emergency. Speaking to media persons in Kozhikode, he said, What happened on the part of the police was unacceptable and a serious misconduct. Let me examine what can be done within my jurisdiction regarding the matter. He added that strict action would follow in connection with the incident. The ministers remarks came on Sunday, shortly after he arrived in Ulliyeri, Kozhikode, to inaugurate a petrol pump - an event that witnessed a tense atmosphere as Youth Congress workers tried to stage a black-flag protest against him. Police swiftly intervened and took several protesters into custody.

Keralites thiruvathira performance at the Great Wall of China wins hearts

KANNUR: This Onam, a group of women from Kerala took the festive spirit to the iconic Great Wall of China by performing thiruvathira at the historical site. Six women, part of a 34-member tourist group from the state, performed the traditional dance form on Wednesday, turning the world-famous spot into a stage that celebrated Keralas rich cultural heritage. Their graceful movements drew the attention of onlookers and spread the festive cheer far beyond home. In preparation for their trip to China, organised by Kannur-based travel company Kannur Safari, the group of travellers created a WhatsApp group to stay connected and share ideas. It was there that someone suggested wearing traditional Kerala attire when they reached the Great Wall on September 3. Excited by the thought, another proposal soon followed to perform thiruvathira at the historic site by 59-year-old Suja T. Salina N P, 61, Gerogiya Ani Pappachan, 26, Pushppa Sajeevan, 49, Sheeja M L, 52, and Leena Sathyan, 46, joined Suja to bring the essence of Keralas tradition to the historic site. When travellers from other countries noticed the entire group dressed in traditional attire, they grew curious and began asking about the occasion, giving us the chance to proudly explain the significance of Onam. Watching us perform the thiruvathira sparked even more interest, as many asked about the dance and its steps, their excitement adding to the festive spirit of the moment. We shared our idea about performing at the Great Wall of China through the WhatsApp group, said Sheeja, a resident of Mukkam. Leena from Kannur shared with the group the thiruvathira steps. The group ensured that their performance was carried out without causing any inconvenience to other tourists or disturbing the decorum of the historic site. They danced after training for three days at the hotel. We felt delighted after performing thiruvathira at a historic site. The only regret is that it could have been made much grander, but overall, I am satisfied with the performance. We had our first brief practice session in Shanghai and then managed to rehearse properly for two days after reaching Beijing, said Leena.

Ammathottil cradles 15 infants this year, 11 in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: She is active and healthy. We did medical checks and shes fine, says one of the caretakers at the Thiruvananthapuram Ammathottil, speaking of Thumba, a four-day-old baby girl who became the 11th child to be received at the state-run child care centre since January this year. Weighing 2.8 kilograms, Thumba was admitted on the morning of Thiruvonam day and later taken to the Women and Children Hospital in Thycaud for routine health assessment. She is among the 15 infants received so far in 2025 at Ammathottil facilities in the state. Besides the 11 children received in Thiruvananthapuram, four were received at the Alappuzha centre. Of these, nine are girls and six are boys. The Ammathottil project is run by the Kerala State Council for Child Welfare (KSCCW) and serves as a safe space for children who are orphaned, abandoned, rescued by officials, or surrendered by parents due to unavoidable social or financial circumstances. In most cases, the children we receive have special needs, Saritha S W, working with the adoption unit, told TNIE. They may require extra medical attention or long-term support. But our effort is always to find them families. So far this year, 52 children have been adopted through the child welfare councils system. In Thiruvananthapuram alone, 61 children are currently under care. While the numbers vary across centres, the district has consistently recorded the highest admissions over the past few years. Children who come in a re immediately assessed and put on active feeding schedules. We follow a strict routine. They are fed Dexolac every two hours, 30 to 40 ml per feed through gokarna feeding, said a caretaker. The facilities are run on a structured staff rotation. Thiruvananthapuram had 79 caretakers working in two shifts: from 7.30am to 5.30pm and from 5pm to 8am. At any given time, 19 to 20 staff members will be present. While the centre strives to provide the best possible care, most involved agree that institutional care is never a substitute for a family. Pocso-related cases are more common these days, a staff member said. Some children come in with trauma and need additional psychological care. Everything is provided here but, ultimately, nothing compares to a home. Thats what we try to work towards. Currently, there are ten functioning Ammathottil centres in the state. Districts like Kannur, Idukki, Wayanad and Palakkad do not yet have one, though proposals are under consideration. Due to various circumstances, some parents are unable to care for their children, leaving the little ones without support. Ammathottil steps in to receive these children with open arms, offering them the warmth and affection of motherhood, said KSCCW general secretary G L Arungopi.

Accused in Kannur Urban Nidhicase found dead

FIR against Kerala girl students for pro Palestine protest

An FIR was registered against the Girls Islamic Organisation (GIO) in Kannur district of Kerala on Friday, September 5, for raising pro-Palestinian slogans, flags and banners. An FIR was registered by Pazhayandi police against GIO Kerala general secretary Afra Shihab and 30 members under BNS sections 189(2), 191(2), 190 and 192 for rioting and being 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 .

Case against student activists for organising pro-Palestine protest at Madayipara in Keralas Kannur

A complaint alleges that protesters carried flags and banners allegedly causing damage to biodiversity of the biological ecological zone, said a complaint

An Onam odyssey beyond borders

On the streets of Nagercoil, the days before Thiruvonam once meant hurried visits to crowded shops to buy Onakodi (Onam outfit). Writer Nanjil Nadan, who grew up in Nanjil Nadu, recalls that set- mundu or silk was beyond their means. We wore manja mundu (yellow dhoti). Most people were farmers, and we could not afford silk. Even getting three meals a day was a struggle, he says. Still, new clothes marked the festival, however modest. For us, Onam was always more important than Deepavali, he adds. That personal memory is reflective of how Onam travelled across borders and state lines. Nanjil Nadu, once part of Travancore, became part of Tamil Nadu only in 1956 after years of political struggle. Its people carried their Malayalam culture with them food, worship, language, and festivals. Onam endures as a marker of that history, still celebrated in border districts with a distinct flavour. Looking back into the history of Onam is a bit tedious, as there is no specific origin to this festival mentioned in history notes. Sociologist AM Kurup writes in The Sociology of Onam , The earliest known reference to Onam is found in Madurai Kanji, a Sangam poem from the 2nd century CE. It describes seven days of celebration in Madurai oblations to temples, duels and games, feasting, and a royal assembly where warriors, poets, and chieftains received gifts. Later inscriptions reveal how local assemblies institutionalised the festival. By the 16th century, travellers like Bartolommeo noted that Onam, celebrated over eight days, was dedicated to securing prosperity for the year, with people putting aside old pots, donning new clothes, and sharing food. Over time, power shifts transformed its religious landscape. Saivite sites gave way to Vaishnavite temples, and the presiding deity of Onam came to be identified with Vishnu. Kanniyakumari: A grandeur For Uma Sudhir, daughter of KT Sudhir who was once the president of Kanyakumari Malayali Samajam, Onam has become quieter with time. She recalls her childhood memories that involved gathering at her grandmothers house in Ernakulam, cousins laying pookalam together before the sadhya . Now, Onam is celebrated in individual homes. At the Samajam, we mark it on a convenient day, with competitions for schoolchildren, cultural programmes in Malayalam, and sometimes Pulikali on the streets. We also usually order in sadhya . Especially after Covid, things have become laid back. If there arent children at home, the pookalam is often skipped, she says. For Nanjil Nadan, Onams deep-rooted cultural connections remain strong through food. These days, everyone in Tamil Nadu just calls it payasam . But for us, its pradhaman . Ada Pradhaman, Paal Pradhaman theres always some kind of pradhaman . We dont make just any dessert for Onam. Also, we dont make non-veg for Onam, but we make it for Deepavali, he shares. Celebrations also spilled into the community. Under the tamarind trees, swings made of thick coir rope carried children and grandmothers alike. That marked the beginning of the festival. During Onam, theyd show some great Malayalam movies, he recalls. It was a rare chance for us. Thats how we got to see films like Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha . Music also filled the houses. We sang Maveli Naadu Vaanidum Kaalam , he adds. Today, the writer lives in Coimbatore. Ive lived here for 36 years. Onam is such a joyful festival. The citys diversity shapes its celebrations. About 35% of the people here are Malayalis, and the remaining are Telugu and Tamil speakers. So, its pretty cosmopolitan. Its not a distinctly Malayali festival. Basically, everyone celebrates it. Coimbatore: A porous border Artist Jitha Karthikeyan sees Onam in Coimbatore as inseparable from Kerala. From here, Valayar is just half an hour away. People go to Palakkad even for lunch, if they crave a Kerala meal, she says. The proximity keeps the culture alive in everyday life, not just during Onam. Now, she is struck by how porous the festival has become. I see Tamil and Telugu households making pookalam . Hotels are full with sadhya bookings from people who arent Malayalis. Festivals are no longer confined everyone celebrates what they find beautiful. Palakkad: A floral memory On the other side of the border, in Kalpathi, Palakkad, postmaster MN Lathadevi remembers the colours of the flowers that dominated houses. We used to put poochedi poovu , mukkutti poovu , thumbappoo , chembarathi , roses, and nithyakalyani . From Atham , we put pookalam for ten days. On Pooradam , we made matheru (small conical clay idols), on Uthradam three matherus , and on Thiruvonam we placed Maveli, she says. Each stage carried meaning. Pooradam is childrens Onam, Uthradam the elders, Thiruvonam everyones, and Avittam is for the married daughters who return to their homes. Today, marigolds from Tamil Nadu dominate, filling the absence of native blooms. Chennai: The many Onams In Chennai, Onam unfolds through associations and apartments. Pankajam Jayaram, who moved from Kannur 50 years ago, sees the contrast. We have to buy flowers and ingredients here. My mother made everything herself in Kerala, but in Chennai, we often order sadhya . Still, we share payasam with our neighbours. For businessman Manoharan Nambiar, the festival is a community stage. We celebrate in our apartment complex with about 50 Malayali families. Theres pookalam judged by celebrities, Mahabali goes around all the towers with chenda melam, and there are plays in English. We also serve free food to our housekeeping and security staff, he says. Meanwhile, Kudumbashree member Rejani Manohar recalls, Since ours is an all-women team, we made a woman Mahabali. In her household, Thalassery roots mean that the second days meal includes chicken biryani and date pickle served on banana leaves. Functionally, Onam plays a prominent role in the social integration of Keralites, irrespective of caste or creed. The rulers and the ruled, the employers and the employees, the landlords and the serfs, the high and the low all endeavour to achieve a common goal, share a common dream, and reflect the same aspirations, writes Kurup. Perhaps thats why Onam never sat still. It reappears in new places. For Jitha, what endures beyond geography or ritual is a shared ethos. Basically, it is about welcoming whether its a king in the legend, or simply a guest at the door. You may live in a tiny house, but you still clean the entrance, lay flowers, and serve food. That is our culture of hospitality. Let us take the spirit of oneness from it and celebrate, she concludes.

Over 700 join pro-Palestine protest organised by SIO in Kerala

The Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) of Keralas Kannur district organised a mass rally and solidarity gathering in support of Palestine on Sunday, August 31, as part of its month-long campaign Tahya Filasteen (Long Live Palestine). More than 700 protesters participated in the rally, which began near the New Stand. Student Islamic Organisation (SIO) organised a 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 .

Kannur Corporation to cancel contract with firm for renovation of gas crematorium

AprilJuly 2025 air travel up 4 per cent, South leads with over 10 per cent growth

NEW DELHI: Air passenger traffic during the four-month period from April to July 2025 recorded a 4 per cent increase over the corresponding period last year, according to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). International traffic grew by 6.6 per cent, while domestic traffic rose by 3.4 per cent. The Southern Region is driving the overall growth, registering a robust increase of over 10 per cent, the data indicated. The air traffic report released by AAI stated that the AprilJuly period of 2025 saw 13.72 crore passengers, compared to 13.2 crore in the same period last year. Airports in the Southern Region alone recorded a total of 4.62 crore passengers, up from 4.2 crore last year, reflecting a 10.2 per cent growth. A total of 2,62,68,697 Indians flew internationally during the four months, compared to 2,48,30,147 in the same period last year. Domestically, there were 11,08,21,774 passengers compared to 10,71,76,202 in the corresponding months of the previous year. Here are the airports in the South that recorded significant growth in passenger traffic during AprilJuly 2025 compared to AprilJuly 2024, Shivamogga 52,272 passengers (89.3% increase), Tiruchirapalli 2,90,775 (55% increase),Kozhikode 2,76,137 (15.8%), Tirupati 4,25,629 (52.1%), Hyderabad 87,28,640 (15.9%), Kannur 1,62,786 (34.1%), Madurai 4,17,325 (12.5%), Cuddapah 22,837 (52.8%), Hubballi 1,19,756 (22%), Rajahmundry 11,95,532 (36.3%), Tuticorin 1,04,010 (23.5%) and Kurnool 7,374 (35.7%) Only southern region records domestic growth in July Statistics released for July 2025 alone reveal a 1 per cent dip in total passenger traffic compared to the same month last year, primarily due to a slump in domestic travel. Interestingly, the Southern Region was the only region to record growth in the domestic market in July. While the Northern, Eastern, Western, and Northeastern regions showed negative growth, Southern airports collectively recorded 80 lakh passengers in July 2025, compared to the same month in 2024, reflecting a 2.8 per cent increase.

Govindachamys jail break: Crime Branch probe ordered

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has ordered a Crime Branch probe into the jail break of rape-murder convict Govindachamy from Kannur central prison. The decision was taken after it was assessed that the incident ought to be probed deeply as there have been several questions that were left unanswered regarding the escape. A highly placed police source said: the department wanted to conduct a systematic probe into the incident for which the Crime Branch was handed over the case. The source added that the probe will try to unearth whether Govindachamy had got any support from prison inmates or staff or even outsiders, to carry out the daring feat, which was considered impossible given that he was physically challenged. There has to be a meticulous probe done on whether any another person is linked to the episode. Also, it has to be ascertained what Govindachamys plan was after escaping the prison, the source added.

INTERVIEW| 'I once sought clearance for mission to eliminate Dawood,' recounts Filmmaker Major Ravi

The Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun and Glock 17 pistol from his commando days still remain close-to-heart buddies for Major A K Ravindran (retd), better known as Major Ravi. Known for his military valour, war films, and outspoken socio-political views, he comes across as a unique mix of a hardened fighter, ace storyteller and a maverick politician. In a freewheeling, three-hour interaction at TNIE s Kochi office, Major Ravi revisited his childhood struggles, Army days, NSG operations, the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, his filmmaking journey, politics, and his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi Lets start with your childhood, the making of the soldier As a child, I was not great at studies. I was a typical village boy. School was about freedom from the suffocation at home for me. We were brought up in a strict environment at home. At school, there was freedom. In fact, I used to hate holidays. At my house, the atmosphere was that of a typical orthodox joint family. I was like Appu in M T Vasudevan Nairs Nalukettu. Often, I had to sleep after having just rice porridge, as my mother had to bear the wrath of her mother-in-law. Naturally, the children feel the brunt. I never had the freedom to play freely with my cousins. I wore a vallikalasam and just hung around at home. Because of my fathers temper, my mother suppressed everything and never complained to him. Was your father in the military? No, my father managed the familys farming activities while his brothers were in the military. He handled the familys 100-odd acres of agricultural land in Pattambi (Palakkad). My childhood friends were the boys who came to look after the cows. Thats why I find it hard to relate to the disparity that Vedan (the Malayalam rapper) sings about. My friends were Krishnan, the blacksmiths son, and Kuttappa, the son of Kunnumel Shankaran. There was no caste or colour discrimination. My mother raised me that way. When I looked at the elders in the house, none had high education. Many had joined the Army in their early years. So I felt I too could join the Army once I completed Class 8, and I could earn a living with that salary. That was my modest ambition. My goal was simple: escape from home. I eventually left home after failing Class 9. While my fathers brothers were in the Army, my mothers elder brother was in the Navy. He helped his nephews join the navy. So, initially, I thought I could also join through that route. But because of family rivalries, that did not happen. So I took a train to Bombay. I had only Rs 16 in my pocket. I spent three nights at VT (Victoria Terminus) station. I sat in a corner with my small suitcase, staring into a vacuum, with no clue what lay ahead. What happened then? I didnt know Hindi or English. I used to follow anyone wearing a mundu, thinking they might be Malayalis who could help me. Like a hapless dog that would look up to people for some affection. But nobody cared in those days Im talking about 1975. I was exhausted. And thats when I realised what real hunger meant. For three days, I survived on robusta bananas. I was down with dysentery. Fortunately, from my suitcase, I found an address from my fathers diary: Kuttan Nair, Menons Mess, Koliwada. Around 11pm, I boarded a suburban train without a ticket. As luck would have it, the ticket-checker caught me and put me with a group of ticketless travellers, most of them migrant workers. I still remember asking them: Will we get food in jail? I was that famished. And then I saw God in human form. A tall man in a white suit, looking like Sai Baba, extended his hand towards me. I was frail, weighing 37kg. He lifted me over a fence, hit on my back and told me to run. Trudging down a street, I bumped into a Malayali. He guided me to Menons Mess. At the restaurant, a relative Kuttan Mama was sitting at the counter. I was meeting him for the first time. When I introduced myself, he was shocked. Bursting into tears, I whimpered that I was hungry. He immediately shouted for food to be brought, though the shop was about to close. I remember the smell of sambar and fried fish. That, to date, remains the tastiest meal I have ever had. Later, he arranged a place at a nearby chawl for me to sleep in. Soon I started working at the eatery cleaning tables, picking up plates and, at times, manning the counter. During that time, one day, I stopped a man who was leaving without paying for the food he ate. I held back one of his gang members. Everyone rebuked me for doing so. That man stared, smiled and left. It was much later I discovered from a newspaper article that he was Karim Lala, an underworld don. Those days, Kuttan Mama would say he would send me to the Gulf once I turned 18. Sometimes I wonder had that happened, maybe Id have become a don more dreadful than Dawood (laughs)! What led you to the Army? About a month after the Karim Lala incident, an uncle of mine told me about an Army recruitment drive. I went, and surprisingly, I was the only one who matched the requirements 52 kg weight (thanks to the mess food!), height, chest all perfect. I was selected and joined a unit in Nashik. Over the next three years, I started studying seriously. When others would go for drinks at night, I would study in peace. I cleared Class 10, then pre-degree and later enrolled in Punjab University. I then attempted the officer test, and cleared it on my first attempt. Later, I got into the NSG again on the first attempt. Which operation did you get the gallantry medal for? I have been in several operations. In fact, I could have applied for more. For medals and awards, one often has to do a lot of paperwork. I was never interested in that. Many people realised I was the one leading the NSG team involved in the hunt for Rajiv Gandhis killers only after the web series The Hunt was released recently. Even some batchmates called me up to confirm if the Captain Raveendran in the series was based on me. For the Rajiv Gandhi operation, I didnt get a medal, though it was one of the biggest and riskiest operations. I never sought one. And I have no complaints. Thats how I have lived my life. Could you tell us about NSG operations in Kashmir? Our base was in Manesar, about 40km from Palam airport. There are three squadrons, and one is always on alert. A team consists of 30 men and an officer. I have been part of ops in Kashmir and Punjab. Our first operation was in February 1989, when Rubaiya Sayeed was kidnapped. I had just arrived after my marriage when we got the alert to go to Kashmir. I left my wife at the military mess. We were thrilled about the opportunity for action. Now, if you ask me to kill someone, I would think twice. But back then, I was duty-bound. We waited for three days, but we knew we wouldnt get permission to attack. We had identified the hideout in Kupwara, but Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, who was the home minister at the time, did not allow it, saying his daughter would get hurt. It was his policy of releasing four terrorists that eventually led to the Kandahar hijacking a chain reaction. Once you bend in front of these terrorists, it creates more problems. Look at the US policy they dont talk. Thats what Modiji is doing now with surgical strikes. Now, the adversaries fear us. Earlier, we would go for diplomatic talks. In Pahalgam, Modi gave full freedom to the armed forces. What is the most memorable operation you have been part of? All were memorable but the most challenging one would be the Rajiv Gandhi operation. I only realised it now. We had to stop the terrorists from consuming cyanide. One had split seconds. I had to move stealthily and grab the cyanide before they even realised what was happening. Are the depictions in the Hunt accurate? The series has totally neglected one person. Radha Vinod Raju, the person who raised NIA. He was a Kochi native. He was a DIG during the CBI inquiry. He was the mastermind of the operation in terms of coordination. Moreover, there are several discrepancies in the series. Amod Kanth, one of the officers shown, had said he would sue the makers. One scene shows you threatening LTTE tigress Nalini with rape No, nothing of that sort had happened. But I just let it pass. I did dial up (director) Nagesh Kukunoor. He said his father was unwell, and that he would call me back. But he has not done so. Several militants whom you had apprehended were pardoned and released from prison It is not the right of Rajiv Gandhis wife to pardon the militants. Around 22 policemen had lost their lives. Was their wives opinion sought when deciding to let these militants go? Is this country a monarchy? Did they ask us? Furthermore, why did SIT not question the politicians? During this case, the order was not to interrogate any of the politicians. Why was it so? You tell me, who killed Rajiv Gandhi? I ask this question even now. I dont think it was linked to him sending the IPKF to Sri Lanka. It was a smokescreen. Are you hinting at an internal conspiracy? You have to ask questions. Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Madhavrao Scindia, Rajesh Pilot, YSR Why and how did the lives of these leaders end in gruesome ways? The public needs to ask these questions. These incidents seem to be something right out of the pages of a Sidney Sheldon novel. A power play seemed to be taking place. You were once close to the Congress. Now you are with the BJP. How did that happen? I was apolitical for a long time. I, however, couldnt accept communism that had anti-national elements. As for the Congress, I didnt have any problems with them. I had shared many platforms with Congress leaders. Mullappally Ramachandran had once called me to meet him. However, after I left, the meeting turned into big news. When the media asked me for a comment, I remarked that I was not happy with the Pinarayi government, and the Congress seemed to be the only alternative in the state at that time. The media, however, presented the interpretation that I had joined Congress. I began getting calls from Delhi after the news broke. You should understand that I had been associated with RSS from my childhood. So many wondered what happened. To clarify, I am still a BJP man, but no official position now. When Rajeev Chandrasekhar became the BJP state president , I met him and told him that I am not interested in any position. But I assured him that he could count on me whenever the party needed me. Otherwise, I hate jostling on stage for visibility. You said earlier, BJP couldnt come to power in the state and hence the Congress was the only choice... Has the situation changed now? Yes, but the BJP needs to do many more things here. For instance, there needs to be enhanced booth-level work. Its a conducive climate in the state. But if you dont play well like the reaction in the nuns issue. There is no need for show offs or drama. That said, many common people here still act foolishly. If Pinarayi announces a kit or something, they will forget everything and vote the Left again to power. The Congress is standing on loose ground. One cant even watch the mobile because of the sleaze coming out these days How do you view the current Congress leadership in Kerala? I cannot tolerate its present leadership in Delhi. In Kerala, I like the earlier leadership. like V M Sudheeran, Mullappally Ramachandran and others. Current ones like V D Satheesan are the new generation. Shashi Tharoor is an intellectual man. He should be used in Kerala. Maybe the BJP could do that he is ready. Is Shashi Tharoor coming to the BJP? Have you talked to him? No, I didnt. But then there has been a lot of talk about it. His posturing nowadays is not in line with the Congress. Will you be contesting in the upcoming assembly elections? No. I wont stand as a candidate if you ask me to do so on the eve of the election day. Now only seven months are left for the election. What the BJP should do now is that it should allocate the seats now and ask the candidates to start working there. That they wont do. Last time, they asked me to contest from Ernakulam. I didnt. I didnt have any interest. What could I do in just 15 days? How is your relation with the Delhi circles of BJP? I dont do anything for my benefit. If some anti-national things happen here, I alert the top leadership. Thats all. My last personal request to the Centre was permission for a clandestine mission to kill Dawood Ibrahim. Ten former commandos were willing to join me. We had a clear plan. But then the Covid struck, and the mission did not take off. Recently, there were suggestions that the military training should be given to the RSS cadre. You run one academy Agniveer academy. Your opinion on mandatory military training? Its very difficult to have such a system in this country, because we have a huge population, 140-145 crore. Agreed the same will help cultivate discipline, patriotism, etc. But we are already providing the same through NCC programmes. Many children pass out of NCC and join the army. Now the four-year Agniveer course is there. When it was first suggested, there was a lot of opposition. But take the case of my academy. Of the 580 candidates who appeared for the test, 547 made it. The problem is not that, but the intrusion of the drug mafia. It is a huge challenge. Does the new generation have a weaker sense of patriotism? No. But there is a small segment not limited to any religion or caste that is consumed by fanaticism, anti-India attitudes. I dont know what they gain out of it. Maybe they crave attention, and think they will get noticed by making such statements. But the youth has got a lot of patriotism. On one occasion, a group of handsome students, mainly Muslim children, from Kannur and Kozhikode came up to me when they met me at the LuLu Mall and started taking pictures. I asked them why they were here and they replied they were appearing for the NDA test the next day. So the country is undergoing a change. If someone says something, then the outburst comes: Go to Pakistan. Thats not right. If someone makes an anti-national remark, asking him to go to Pakistan is not what we should do. Instead we should try to change them. How did 'Keerthi Chakra' happen? I have been a film buff since childhood. I used to envy Prem Nazir sir, Sathyan Sir, Madhu sir. When I was in the military, I used to look at the mirror and think, I look good, and I can act in movies. Also, I was part of drama and other events. Once I came back, I started working with Priyan chettan (filmmaker Priyadarshan). He used to give me small roles. He didnt accept that I am an actor. Then I started assisting him in ads. I started understanding the basics of the craft. I had been planning 'Keerthi Chakra' since 2000, with Biju Menon as the lead. Biju brought a producer. But it did not work out. After two years, I felt I should present this to Mohanlal. So I went to Kanhangad and narrated the story to him. Then destiny took over. There is a poignant song on Kashmir in the film. Was it something you held in your heart? Yes. It was based on my memories from Kashmir, my interactions with the local community. Even now, the song is played there in tourist places. They say it is Major Saabs song. Many boat operators of Dal Lake call me often. I made Kailash Kher re-render the song as his initial take lacked pathos. Moved by my vision for the song, he eventually refused to accept remuneration. He left taking just one rupee from me. Empuraan row: Mohanlal issues apology for 'distress' caused, assures to remove controversial portions Your views on 'Empuraan' stirred a controversy what actually happened? I still maintain that Lal had not watched the film before its release. The issue is over. They got publicity. Then there was a statement that I degraded her (Mallika Sukumarans) sons movie. Even now, I say, technically, he did a good job. But they shouldnt have portrayed the scene (the riot) in the beginning the way it was. It was misleading. They should have shown how it all started from the train (the Godhra train burning incident). That was what I found to be problematic. Was Mohanlal really upset after watching the film? Obviously. I know him well. He was targeted. I took on that attack. Everyone attacked me. And I was okay with that. Some people attract you in a special way. Take Narendra Modi. He is a non-corrupt, committed person. I will die for him. Similar is the case with Mohanlal. I am close to Mammukka as well. I was hurt when I heard he was unwell. But I keep a distance with him out of respect. I have shouted at people who criticised him too. Are you making a film on the Galwan standoff? I had planned such a film. But in the Malayalam industry, many producers lack commitment. I am currently working on a film titled Hanara, which is set along the Line of Control. It tells the story of an Indian soldier who becomes emotionally drawn to a girl from the Pakistani side. As the mystery unfolds, deeper themes are explored. I want to raise a question do we really need these lines between nations? Despite being a BJP leader, the way you talk sometimes seems detached from politics I am not detached, I am just talking like a human. There is no detached tone, I am always with the BJP. Now, a lot of people from probable alliance parties especially those who may have a mind block towards the Lotus symbol have been approaching me, asking me to take initiative for a third front formation. If I get the blessings from Amit Shah ji and the PM, I will consider that. Meanwhile, I will keep speaking my mind freely. And people will take me up in the air (referring to trolling). Then I come down and say something then again go up in the air. That keeps happening. And I am quite okay with that by now (laughs). (With inputs from Kiran Prakash, Rajesh Abraham, Manoj Viswanathan, S Neeraj Krishna, Krishna Kumar K E and Harikrishna.)

Probe launched into elderly couples death at Alavil in Kannur

Kannur ADM Naveen Babus death: petition for further probe moved to sessions court

Petition filed by Manjusha, wife of K. Naveen Babu

Kerala witnesses landslides, waterlogging due to heavy rains

Thiruvananthapuram: Rains intensified in Kerala on Thursday, causing waterlogging, a rise in water levels of dams and landslides in some parts of the state, with the IMD issuing an orange alert in six districts for the day. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts 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 .

SFI sweeps Kannur University college union polls

IndiGo, Air India Express add more flights for Kannur airport ahead of Onam

Kannur jail smuggling racket: Youth admits to throwing ganja, mobiles inside for cash

During police interrogation, accused admits that he used to hurl beedis, ganja and mobile phones into jail compound whenever he received a signal from the inmates

Cochin, Kannur airports top in passenger experience

Thiruvananthapuram, a PPP-run airport, and Calicut International Airport, Karipur,an AAI-run airport, both with score of 4,82 need to do more

Kannur districts first Kudumbashree Gender Brigade launched in Azhikode

KSU district secretary castigates MSF in Kannur

Woman dies after being set ablaze by friend in Keralas Kannur

Kerala HC seeks instructions from government on graft charges against former Kannur district panchayat chief P.P. Divya

KSU leader alleges bid to sabotage probe against Ms. Divya in connection with alleged corruption and benami property transactions to the tune of crores of rupees

Kodi Suni, convict in T.P. Chandrasekharan murder case, shifted from Kannur Central Jail to Tavanurprison

Shifting follows reports of misconduct, including allegations of drinking on Thalassery court premises. A prison department report earlier stated Suni was using mobile phone inside jail and was involved in illegal activities outside

Six held with MDMA in Kannur lodge raid; Shuhaib murder case accused among arrested

The drugs were recovered from a cupboard in one of the lodge rooms, police said

Heavy rains in Kerala: IMD issues orange alert in 5 districts

Orange alert for Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. Yellow alert for remaining nine districts on Saturday

Kannur declared extreme-poverty free district

Around 15,000 people earlier excluded from the Life Mission housing scheme have been added to the beneficiary list, with construction under way

HC tells govt. to adopt a reimagined inter-departmental strategy to address human-animal conflicts

Increasing incidents of human-wildlife conflicts at Aralam farm in Kannur and in Wayanad

Kannur gears up to prepare States first district water budget

The budget aims to make citizens water literate by publicly presenting data on water availability and usage at a time when freshwater sources are dwindling amid rising consumption

Clashes break out in Keralas Kannur over raksha bandhan celebration; four injured

African Swine Flu confirmed at Padiyoor in Kannur

Eleven panchayats and three municipalities under surveillance

Deviant children emerging as a social concern in Kerala schools

Functionaries of the Higher Secondary School Teachers Association (HSSTA), an organisation of teachers in government higher secondary schools, claim that such incidents have recently been reported from Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod, and other districts in the State as well.

Body of KAAPA case accused who jumped into river in Keralas Kannur during vehicle inspection found

Body found in river in Keralas Kannur suspected to be that of man accused of killing his sisters

According to the police, Pramod (63), who had been living with his elderly sisters in a rented house for three years, allegedly strangled them as they were ailing and he could no longer care for them

Kerala has set a model for the country in Ayurveda treatment, says Health Minister

Veena George inaugurates newly constructed womens hostel building and open-air stage at Government Ayurveda College, Pariyaram, Kannur

Kerala Doctor Duped Of Rs 4.43 Crore In Online Trading Fraud; 2 Arrested

The Kerala Police's cyber crime unit arrested two men from Chennai in connection with a sophisticated online trading fraud that defrauded a doctor in Kannur of Rs 4.43 crore, officials said on Monday.

Three youths arrested under POCSO Act in Kannur

Three mobile phones seized in raid at Kannur Central Jail

From Kannur looms to Prime Ministers wardrobe: handwoven Onakkodi heads to Delhi

This is the third time Loknath Weavers is making Onakkodi for the Prime Minister. They will make nine unique kurta patterns for him and seven Union Ministers. The fabric is crafted in twill weave, a technique that demands much patience

Weavers sit idle in Kannurs heritage village as handloom industry struggles

Of over 10,000 weavers and workers earlier, only 2,800 are working now, most of them women. Besides wage arrears is an issue in the sector

SFI wins Kannur University union polls for 26th year in a row

SFI accuses rivals of rigging and illegal entry; KSUMSF blames SFI for abducting a university union councillor

Kannur airport to host North Malabar Travel Bazaar in November

Over 100 tourism-related businesses, including hotels, resorts, homestays, houseboats, Ayurvedic institutions, travel agencies, hospital and destination management companies, will showcase their services

Kerala rains: IMD downgrades red alert to orange for Kannur, Kasaragod as rainfall weakens

Yellow alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts on Wednesday where isolated heavy rain is likely

Holiday for educational institutions in Kasaragod, Kannur districts on August 6

Red alert for Kannur, Kasaragod on Wednesday

Khadi Onam Mela kicks off in Kannur

Call to strengthen Kannur-Mangaluru rail connectivity gains momentum

Kerala: Kannur's beloved 'two-rupee doctor' Rairu Gopal passes away at 80

Dr. Rairu Gopal, Kerala's beloved 'Two Rupee Doctor,' passed away at 80, leaving behind a legacy of accessible healthcare. Renowned for charging a nominal fee, often just two rupees, he served over 1.8 million patients. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lauded him as he people's doctor for his dedication to serving the poor, providing comfort and care for half a century.

Kannurs two-rupee doctor A.K. Rairu Gopal passes away at 80; leaves behind legacy of compassion and service

For over 50 years, Dr. Rairu Gopal stood as a beacon of hope for the common people, charging just 2 for a consultation and often providing free medicine to those in financial distress

Protests over continued incarceration of nuns in Chhattisgarh rock Kerala

Archbishop Pamplany seeks immediate intervention of the Union government. Protests held in Kannur, Kollam, Kozhikode, and Malappuram

Keralas Green Moves: Glass Bottles For Liquor Priced Above Rs 800, Rs 20 Return Refund

In collaboration with the Clean Kerala Company, a pilot project will take place in September in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur

Devaswom clerk suspended for stealing money during treasury counting at temple in Keralas Kannur

CCTV visuals revealed that Mullappally Narayanan of Cheriyoor, an LD clerk at the temple, stole the money

Parole of Kodi Suni, convict in T.P. Chandrasekharan murder case, cancelled for bail violation

Police say as per parole conditions, Suni should have stayed within Meenangadi police station limits. But after reporting once, he was found staying in a resort within Kenichira police limits, bordering Kannur and Wayanad

Fisherman dies after boat capsizes in Chootad estuary in Kannur

Abdul Islam, alias Ali, from Assam died after he falls into the sea after his fibre boat hits a sandbar

National child rights commission orders probe into alleged DYFI disruption of mid-day meal, assault of cook at school in Keralas Kannur

Complainant says disruption violated National Food Security Act 2013 and Mid-Day Meal Rules 2015 that guarantee a free cooked meal to children up to Class 6 on all school working days

Body of missing fisherman found four days after boat capsize in Kannur

Kannur DCC general secretary resigns after audio leak

Dead fences and crumbling walls, Keralas prisons vulnerable to more breaches

The escape of life convict Govindachamy from Kannur Central Prison has exposed lapses in Keralas prison security system, where outdated infrastructure and administrative inertia have long gone unaddressed. Chronic underfunding and poor interdepartmental coordination have been cited as key reasons delaying much-needed security upgrades of prison facilities

Keralite nuns arrests in Chhattisgarh: bipartisan protests roil Kerala for third consecutive day

The demonstrations over the arrest of sisters Preeta Mary and Vandana Francis of the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate order, hailing from Kannur and Angamaly respectively, also radiated out to Chhattisgarh

Govindachamys jailbreak: DIG report confirms security lapses at Kannur jail

Findings submitted by DIG of Prisons (North Zone) V. Jayakumar to Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services Balaram Kumar Upadhyay underline systematic failures in surveillance, staffing and prison infrastructure

Two kg of suspected ganja seized in Kannur

Kerala: IMD issues Orange alert for Kannur, Kasargod districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for several regions. An orange alert is in effect for Kannur, Kasargod, and Idukki districts in Kerala, while a yellow alert covers other districts. High wave alerts are also in place for coastal areas.

How 28 women from a small Kerala village turn rubbish into rupees 25,000 a month, and a greener future

In Kannur, Kerala, a group of 28 women from the Haritha Karma Sena are spearheading a green revolution by upcycling waste into valuable products. They transform old clothes into bags and decor, repair LED bulbs, and replace single-use plastics, significantly boosting their income from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 monthly.

Govindachamy alleges drug, liquor trade inside Kannur Central Jail

He says he got no help in the jailbreak, admits to smoking ganja-laced beedi on the eve of the escape

Notorious murder convict who broke out of Kannur jail shifted to Viyyur prison

Govindachamy, the convict in the 2011 Soumya murder case, was moved to Viyyur Central Jail. This followed his escape from Kannur prison. He was caught within city limits. Three prison officers were suspended. Allegations of inside help surfaced. The Congress criticized the government. They demanded a CBI probe. Soumya was raped and murdered in 2011 while on a train.

Cyclone havoc in Kannur: Elderly man killed, fisherman missing

The deceased has been identified as Eniyadan Chandran of Peruva Thettumal. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. when strong winds uprooted a tree that crashed onto his residence.

Govindachamy escapes from Kannur Central jail, arrested after four-hour search

The police came to know about the escape upon finding a makeshift rope dangling over the jail wall. Tip-offs from two local people enable police to trace the convict to a well in compound 3 km from the jail.

Govindachamys escape exposes cracks in high-security prisons in Kerala

Though govt. had proposed to erect electric fencing and install laser-scanning systems at all jails, these are yet to be implemented in several jails, including the Kannur Central Prison

Soumya Murder Case Back In Limelight After Convict Escapes From Kerala Prison, Arrested

Govindachamy, convicted in the 2011 Soumya murder case, tried to escape from Kannur Central Jail but was caught within hours, raising concerns about Kerala prison security.

2011 Soumya case convict Govindachamy captured after escaping from Kannur central jail

Rape-Murder Convict Serving Life Escapes From Kannur Jail By Scaling Wall, Re-Arrested | Video

Govindachamy escaped from Kannur Central Jail in the early hours of Friday, prompting a statewide manhunt. He was re-arrested later.

Police Catch Murder Case Convict Govindachamy, Who Escaped Kannur Central Jail

The convict, who does not have a left hand, was caught from near a derelict building at Thalap within the Kannur city limits

Convict in Soumya Rape-Murder Case Escapes From Kannur Central Jail

Jail authorities launched an immediate search operation in and around the prison premises, but the inmate was nowhere to be found.

Soumya murder case: Govindachamy breaks prison escapes from Kannur central jail; statewide hunt launched

Govindachamy escapes from jail: Convict Govindachamy, serving a life sentence for the 2011 rape and murder of a young saleswoman, escaped from Kannur Central Jail in Kerala early Friday. A statewide manhunt is underway to recapture Govindachamy, also known as Charley Thomas. Authorities have launched an internal investigation into the prison break, which raises serious concerns about jail security.