BJP mouthpiece prints Muslim League editorial: Mix-up amuses Kerala; sparks political chatter
In an embarrassing mix-up, Janmabhumi carried the editorial page of Chandrika, the daily run by the Indian Union Muslim League, in its KannurKasaragod regional edition, while all other pages of the newspaper remained unchanged. According to sources cited by local media, the incident occurred due to a technical lapse at the printing stage. Both Janmabhumi and Chandrika are reportedly printed at the same press, and the error affected only the Kannur and Kasaragod editions.
Man arrested for alleged gold loan fraud in Kannur
BJP mouthpiece carries IUML organs edit page on New Years day
In a technical mix-up during the printing process, the Kannur-Kasaragod edition of Janmabhumi carried the editorial page of Chandrika daily, which had an article by League State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal. The rare blooper, though jarring for Janmabhumi readers, helped Chandrika connect with a different section of readers
Kannur Corporation rings in New Year with call for unity, civic action
Central funding delay risks choking Jal Jeevan Mission rollout in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala faces delays in the release of central funds under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), aimed at ensuring piped drinking water to rural households, according to senior officials. Before the implementation of the project, just 17.50 lakh (25.06% of the total) rural households in the state had access to piped drinking water. Since the Union government launched JJM in August 2019, the number of connections has increased to 38.71 lakh households, covering nearly 55.54% of the total 69.82 lakh rural households. When the project began, only three districts Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur had over 25% coverage. At present, seven districts Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Palakkad, Kannur and Thrissur have crossed 50% coverage. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Malappuram have achieved over 45% coverage, while the remaining districts have crossed 30%. So far, 117 panchayats have achieved 100% coverage, enabling them to divert funds to other development sectors. Before the project, only 116 panchayats had over 50% coverage. Currently, 403 panchayats have crossed the 50% mark. Among assembly constituencies, nine Dharmadam, Kalliasseri, Kannur, Beypore, Vypeen, Ernakulam, Kochi, Aroor and Vaikom have achieved 100% coverage, while 73 have crossed 50%. According to senior officials with the Kerala Water Authority (KWA), the project was initially scheduled for completion by March 2024. It was extended to March 2025, and further to December 2028, as was announced in the Union Budget 2025-26. The total estimated cost for achieving 100% coverage in Kerala is Rs 44,714.79 crore. So far, Rs 11,643.59 crore has been spent in the state. Of this, Rs 5,610.30 crore was central share, with the remaining Rs 6,033.29 crore made available by the state. KWA officials said the state could increase coverage from 55.54% to nearly 75% by December 2026 if the Centre ensures timely release of funds. Though the project has been extended, the Union cabinet is yet to approve fund allocation. From March onwards, no central funds have been released. Yet, we carried out work worth nearly Rs 6,000 crore between March and December 2025, which will ensure connections to about eight lakh households. Half of this amount has to come from the Centre, a senior official said, requesting anonymity. Sources said the state arranged its share of the spend from March to December through Nabard, but further delays in central fund release would affect the pace of the project. With the deadline extended to 2028, senior state government officials fear prolonged delays in fund allocation. However, many believe that if funds are released on time, Kerala can achieve 100% rural piped water coverage by 2027. This is a crucial project as cities are expanding into nearby rural areas. Ensuring water availability will encourage people to move to rural regions close to cities. The project needs to be accelerated, a senior official from the state revenue department said.
Another Congress office vandalised in Keralas Kannur
Unidentified persons break into office and set fire to poll campaign materials
Congress office vandalised in Keralas Kannur; party blames CPI(M)
CPI(M) denies involvement, says attempts to link party to the attack part of political conspiracy
Kerala: Case Filed Over Instagram Reel on Country Bomb Explosion
Kannur Cyber Police registered the case on Sunday following a report submitted by the Special Branch, Intelligence Wing of the Kerala Police to the Kannur Commissioner
Case registered over Instagram reel showing country bomb explosion in Keralas Kannur
As per the FIR, a reel was posted on the Instagram account named Red Army Kannur showing visuals of a country bomb explosion
Stress laid on fostering artistic and cultural awareness among students
Sargotsavam 2025, State-level arts festival of students from model residential schools under Scheduled Tribes Development department, begins in Kannur
A Congress-run local club near Thalassery was vandalized on Saturday night, with the party alleging CPM workers were responsible due to their election defeat. Furniture, flags, posters, and a Mahatma Gandhi portrait were damaged at the Priyadarshini Club, which served as a Congress election office. Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident.
Dance of death delves into depths of human dread in Kerala
IVARMADOM: Dying into a dance, An agony of trance, An agony of flame that cannot singe a sleeve W B Yeats, Byzantium It was an unlikely setting for a theyyam performance. But the grim backdrop provided by the still-burning embers of funeral pyres set the stage for the ritual dance of Chudala Bhadrakali, the ferocious deity associated with death, and Pottan Theyyam, a manifestation of Shiva. The theyyam ritual is performed in the early hours of December 26 on the grounds of the crematorium where on average 25 to 30 bodies are consigned to the flames every day. We halted funeral activities for three days to prepare the space for the kaliyattam said K Sasikumar, secretary of the Ivarmadom Heritage Preservation Committee, which organises the event. The venue is meant to banish the horror associated with crematoriums. Death is a natural phenomenon that needs to be accepted without fear. People often shudder at the thought of crematoriums, which they visit only to perform the last rites of those near and dear, said Dr Sethumadhavan, president of the committee. The fear of death is the root cause for many diseases and it is important to remove it from the mind, added Sethumadhavan, an ayurveda physician. He said that Thiruvilwamala, where Ivarmadom is situated, is associated with the legend of Naranathu Branthan, whose encounter with Chudala Bhadrakali at a crematorium is narrated in the folklore. There is no place linked to their meeting, but the story lends a new dimension to the presence of Bhadrakali in the kaliyattam, he said. Guruthi being offered to Chudala Bhadrakali at the Kaliyattam at Ivarmadom crematorium; There is no figure among the various theyyams of Malabar who exactly matches Chudala Bhadrakali, whose form is an adaptation of theyyams such as Rakthachamundi, Rakhthewari and Moovalamkuzhi Chamundi, said A V Ajayakumar, secretary of the Kerala Folklore Academy, which is associated with the staging of the kaliyattam. Usually, theyyam is not performed at crematoriums because there is an observance called pula associated with death. But the kaliyattam at Ivarmadom is an ideal concept because here Chudala Bhadrakali is performing at a chudala (crematorium), he said. The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi used to oversee the kaliyattam. The duty was handed over to academy four years ago because we have been handling all aspects of theyyam. Anish Perumalayan, from Iritty in Kannur, has been performing as Chudala Bhadrakali for the past 11 years, Ajayakumar said. All electric lighting is switched off when Bhadrakali emerges from the manthra sala (the green room), with the initial performance lit exclusively by ola choottu (torches made from dry coconut fronds). Next year will be the 12th staging of the kaliyattam and we are planning scale the event, said Sasikumar, committee secretary.
Binoy Kurien is Kannur district panchayat president
UAE: Indian expat student dies of cardiac arrest
Sharjah: A 17-year-old Indian expat student in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) died after suffering a cardiac arrest on Thursday, December 24, just two weeks after celebrating her birthday, according to media reports. The deceased has been identified as Aisha Mariam, a Grade 11 student at Sharjah Indian School. She hailed from Pappinisseri in Kannur 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 .
Congress leaders V K Minimol, Niji Justin, P Indira and A K Hafeez elected Mayors of Kochi, Thrissur, Kannur and Kollam; O Sadashivan of CPM in Kozhikode
BJP State Secretary and Kodunganoor ward councillor VV Rajesh elected as first BJP mayor in Kerala
The Bharatiya Janata Party achieved a historic win in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. V V Rajesh became the mayor, marking the BJP's first municipal corporation victory in Kerala. The United Democratic Front secured victories in Kollam, Kochi, and Thrissur Corporations. The Left Democratic Front won in Kozhikode, and the UDF is set to lead Kannur.
Airports witness 7% surge in passenger traffic during November 2025 over same period last year
NEW DELHI: Airports across the country have recorded a 7% increase in passenger traffic during November 2025 as compared to the same month last year, according to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Air Traffic data for last month has just been released by the Authority. Over 3.79 crore flyers were recorded in the country last month, of which a little over three crore were domestic flyers. The overall international growth in the month was 7.5% (70,60,493 vs 65,69,934) while the domestic growth was 7% (3,79,51,054 vs 3,54,52,122) over the compared month last year. The domestic passenger traffic in relatively smaller airports has been in healthy double digits highlighting the aspiration for air travel among the non-metro population. Despite the negative publicity for Goa due to its taxi monopoly, overpriced hotels and overcrowded beaches, international patronage to the tourist haven has shot up by 31. 4%. A total of 20,479 flyers travelled last month as compared to 15,581 flyers in November 2024. Its domestic patronage has taken a beating with a 10.5% dip in flyers with just 5.4 lakh passengers from other States visiting it last month. The number was 6.1 lakh visitors in November last year. While the biggies have seen moderate growth, relatively smaller airports have recorded a growth of over 30% international passengers in November this year over the patronage witnessed in the same month last year. Bhubaneswar has seen a growth of 30.5% (14,220 flyers) Tiruchirappalli has 39.9% (19,402 flyers), Varanasi 40.4% (16,070 flyers) and Mangaluru 35.4% (76,579 flyers), Indore has doubled its patronage with a 99.9% growth (8,902 flyers as compared to 4,454 earlier) while Pune has seen a 49% patronage with 30,633 flyers. Among the major airports in the country, Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport continues its steady international growth with 6,42,647 passengers, a 27.3% increase in November 2025 vs November 2024. Hyderabad too has seen significant patronage with a 21% growth (4,86,126 flyers). Mumbai has seen a 6.5% (14,61,956 flyers) Chennai 6.1% (5,03,589) growth while Delhi has seen a 3% increase (19,07,845). Domestic picture On the domestic front, these airports have recorded a substantial growth with the patronage figure in the bracket Agra 77% (26470 flyers), Kozhikode 34.3% (16,90,918 flyers); Tiruchirappalli 50.9% (65,297); Tirupati 30.7% (1,08,441); Kannur 35.8% (35,637), Gaya 38.7% (27,862), Belagavi 32.1% (32118) and Indore 26.6% (27862). Hindon airport has seen a 2998% growth! It is 1,22,381 flyers versus 3,950 last November. Adampur (Jalandhar) has seen a 319.7% surge with 13,595 passengers, Rewa has recorded 179.9% surge (949 flyers) Jaisalmer 121.5% growth (43,971) while Bhuj has seen a 110% growth with 26,687 flyers. The Air Traffic Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have seen an increase of 7.3% with 40,909 ATMs recorded in November 2025 over November 2024. The freight growth too is a healthy 15.6% with 337.45 thousand tonnes versus 291.84 thousand tonnes in the compared period.
Youngsters booked for stopping long distance train to shoot reels in Kerala
Kannur: The Railway Protection Force on Thursday booked two youngsters for briefly stopping a long-distance train in this district after they flashed a red light to shoot social media reels. According to the police, the incident took place around 1.50 am, shortly after the ErnakulamPune Express left Thalassery railway station. Also ReadMemory of brothers lynching 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 .
Malabar Bakerys plum cake remains icing on Kannurs Christmas festivity
KANNUR: Like every Christmas, Malabar Bakery near Kannur Market continues to uphold a cherished tradition of preparing its classic icing plum cake. Serving the people of Kannur for the past 115 years, the bakery is a symbol of nostalgia and trust. Even today, the original cake that has delighted customers for generations is baked and sold, garnering special demand during the Christmas season. For many in the town, the familiar taste of Malabar Bakerys icing plum cake is an indispensable part of the festive spirit of Christmas. Nakkady Achuthan founded Malabar Bakery in 1910 at Camp Bazaar, which was then the headquarters of the Malabar military division. In its early days, the bakery supplied products to the military, nearby convents, and surrounding areas. Recognised as the first bakery in Kannur district, Malabar Bakery soon expanded its reach, exporting its products to places such as Hyderabad, Mangalore, and Madras, and several other regions. In 1928, the business was taken over by Nakkady Madhavan, and today, the bakery is run by the third generation of the family, with N M Swaroopkumar at the helm, continuing the legacy. Malabar Bakery in 1917 Malabar Bakery began making its iconic icing plum cakes in 1920, at a time when every step of the process was done entirely by hand, Swaroopkumar, 63, said. As November approaches each year, we receive inquiries from various places, even from abroad, about our cakes. While many from the older generation continue to return for the familiar taste they grew up with, members of the younger generation are also drawn to the shop, eager to experience the timeless flavour that has defined Malabar Bakery for more than a century. In December, Malabar Bakery fills its shelves with Christmas icing plum cakes and continues to do so till mid-January. The cake is baked without infusing rum which is a regular query of customers. Apart from icing plum cakes, they also sell traditional cream cakes. The dedication to offering only its own creations has helped preserve the bakerys original taste and identity, earning the trust of generations of customers.
South and central Kerala see sharpest decline in voter numbers after SIR
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The draft electoral roll for the 2026 assembly election published on Tuesday registered an overall dip in voter numbers by 8.65% compared to the voters list prior to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Of this, the sharpest drop in voter numbers was recorded in Thiruvananthapuram at 14.31%, followed by Idukki, Ernakulam and Kottayam. Notably, the northern districts of Kannur and Malappuram recorded the least drop in the number of voters. Chief Electoral Officer-Kerala Rathan U Kelkar told TNIE that the drop in voter numbers in predominantly urban districts such as Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam was owing to the lukewarm response of citizens in the 18-30 years age group to either enrol in the electoral roll or participate in the SIR process that requires establishment of a link with the 2002 electoral roll. Of the 2.78 crore voters we had before SIR, nearly 56 lakh in the 18-30 years age group have found a place in the latest draft voters list. However, the population of that age group is close to 90 lakh. This means around 35 lakh people have not come forward to register, Kelkar explained. According to the official, even by conservative estimates, at least 30 lakh people in the 18-30 year age group are expected to come into the electoral roll when it is finalised on February 21. Notably, the number of voters who have been left out of the draft voters list comes up to 24.08 lakh. In the coming days, we will be launching special campaigns to encourage fresh enrolments, the official added. Asked how Idukki, that is predominantly a rural district, came second in terms of the drop in voter numbers, Kelkar said, People of Tamil origin, who also have votes in Tamil Nadu, have not given back the enumeration forms. This was noticed more in the taluks bordering Tamil Nadu.
A Must-Visit Cultural Experience This Season!
If there is one cultural destination in South India that deserves a place on every travellers calendar this season, it is the 13th Sargaalaya International Arts & Crafts Festival (SIACF). From December 23, 2025, to January 11, 2026, Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village transforms into a living, breathing celebration of art, heritage, flavour, and communityan experience that is as inspiring as it is unforgettable. 13th Sargaalaya International Arts & Crafts Festival (SIACF) begins from December 23, 2025, to January 11, 2026 Recognised as South Indias premier crafts festival, SIACF 2025 is expected to welcome o ver two lakh visitors, making it not just an exhibition, but a cultural phenomenon. Organised by Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village and managed by the legendary Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS Ltd.) , the festival continues to set benchmarks in responsible tourism and cultural excellence. Where the Worlds Crafts Come Together What makes SIACF truly extraordinary is its global soul rooted in Indian tradition. The 2025 edition brings together nearly 200 master artisans from 18+ Indian states, alongside celebrated craft practitioners from Belarus, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Russia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Taiwan. Walking through SIACF feels like travelling across continentseach stall revealing a story, a heritage, and a human touch that no machine can replicate. For anyone who values authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural depth, this is an experience that simply cannot be missed. An Immersive Festival, Not Just an Exhibition SIACF 2025 is thoughtfully curated to offer far more than shopping. Visitors are invited to explore beautifully designed Handloom and Craft Theme Arenas, with special emphasis on Geographical Indication (GI)tagged products, making it a rare opportunity to witness Indias protected craft legacies under one roof. With over 100 exhibition and trade stalls, including works by National and State Awardwinning artisans, the festival offers an unparalleled chance to engage directly with creators and take home pieces of living heritage. Adding depth to the experience are the Tourism Expo and Tourism Talk Shows, where ideas, innovation, and the future of creative tourism come togethermaking SIACF equally compelling for professionals, students, and cultural thinkers. Fashion, Flowers, Food & Festivity From elegance on the ramp to colour in full bloom, SIACF 2025 celebrates lifestyle in its most artistic form. Handloom Fashion Shows and Childrens Fashion Shows bring textiles to life, while the Flower Show adds a visual spectacle that delights all ages. No visit to SIACF is complete without indulging in the much-loved Kerala Food Festivala culinary journey through authentic local delicacies, enriched with regional flavours from states like Rajasthan. Daily live cultural performances by renowned artists ensure that every evening at Sargaalaya feels festive, soulful, and memorable. For those who enjoy leisure amidst nature, pedal and motor boating along the serene Moorad River offers a refreshing pausemaking the festival a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure. A Festival That Makes a Difference Beyond its beauty and scale, SIACF stands out for its purpose. As a flagship rural tourism initiative, the festival plays a crucial role in empowering artisans, sustaining endangered crafts, and contributing meaningfully to the local economy. This vision is strengthened by the support of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, NABARD, the Ministry of Textiles (through the Development Commissioners of Handicrafts and Handlooms), and the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Kannurensuring that every visit directly supports livelihoods and cultural continuity. The Perfect Family & Travel Recommendation Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a conscious shopper, a family looking for a meaningful holiday outing, or a traveller seeking authentic Kerala experiences, SIACF 2025 is an unmissable recommendation. It is rare to find a destination that seamlessly brings together craft, cuisine, learning, entertainment, and natureyet Sargaalaya does so effortlessly. Sargaalaya is not just a craft village; it is a celebration of human creativity and shared heritage, says Team Sargaalaya . Every visit helps preserve living traditions while empowering rural communities through responsible tourism. About Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village Set across 20 acres in Iringal, Kozhikode, Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village is a flagship initiative of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, established in 2011. Developed on a Responsible Tourism model, it provides a permanent creative home for over 100 master artisans and features 27+ eco-friendly cottages, live craft demonstrations, and cultural spaces. Recipient of the National Tourism Award for Best Rural Tourism Project, Sargaalaya is widely regarded as one of Keralas most enriching cultural destinations. Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village: Towards a Global Cultural and Experiential Destination Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts Village at Iringal, near Vatakara in Kozhikode district, is envisioned to be developed as a globally benchmarked cultural, experiential, and interpretative destination for Malabar. The proposed development reimagines Sargaalaya not merely as a craft village, but as an integrated cultural institution that interprets regional heritage, nurtures creativity, produces knowledge, and anchors a wider tourism ecosystem across North Kerala. The focus is on creating a living cultural landscape where heritage, contemporary practice, tourism, and community livelihoods intersect. The development places strong emphasis on immersive visitor engagement through interactive craft zones, daily demonstrations, curated workshops, and guided interpretation. Craft spaces will be reconfigured to allow larger visitor participation, supported by a central craft emporium and dedicated workshops that enable skill development, innovation, residencies, and fair market access for artisans. These interventions ensure that crafts remain dynamic, living practices rather than static displays. At the heart of the project is the Cultural Experience and Interpretation Centre, conceived as the primary narrative anchor for Malabar. Through curated exhibitions, multimedia installations, immersive digital environments, and interactive archives, the centre will present Malabars maritime history, social reform movements, resistance traditions, ecological knowledge, and cultural pluralism, offering visitors a coherent entry point into the regions layered cultural landscapes. A series of thematic developments will structure the expanded Sargaalaya ecosystem. The Literature City will position Malabar as a living literary landscape through writers retreats, multilingual libraries, translation and publishing labs, literary residencies, and immersive experiences linking literature with place, memory, and social history. The Kalari Village, rooted in the martial traditions of Kadathanad, will integrate training, performance, research, wellness, and interpretation through traditional arenas, therapy centres, and an interactive martial arts museum. The project places strong emphasis on the documentation and preservation of performing arts, supported by digital archives, performance-capture studios, and immersive experience centres for art forms such as Theyyam, Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, and Mappila songs. A Living Heritage Programme will support artists through apprenticeships, fellowships, residencies, and contemporary collaborations, ensuring continuity alongside creative evolution. Sargaalaya is envisioned as a year-round cultural destination with robust performance infrastructure, including open-air amphitheatres, indoor auditoriums, flexible venues, and artist residency facilities. Regular performances, curated weekend programmes, and four large-scale annual cultural productions will ensure sustained activation. A flagship attraction, Malabar Symphony, is proposed as a large-scale light-and-sound hybrid immersive storytelling experience narrating Malabars maritime history, resistance movements, ecological consciousness, and cultural evolution. Conceived as a thirty-five-minute production staged twice daily, Malabar Symphony is proposed to be developed in collaboration with leading national and international artists, with concept and direction by Revathy, screenplay and narrative by Shankar Ramakrishnan, music composition by A.R. Rahman, sound design by Resul Pookkutty, technical direction by Alphons, theatre direction by Royston Abel, animation and visual effects by Aravind, and voice performances by distinguished artists including Mammootty, Manju Warrier, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Anoop Menon, Sayonara Philip, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. A dedicated Childrens Cultural and Experiential Zone will offer play-based learning rooted in Malabars cultural narratives and ecological contexts, integrating creative activity spaces, nature-linked exploration, and water-based learning experiences. Complementing this are structured workshops and creative learning programmes across crafts, music, theatre, movement, painting, and visual arts, catering to students, artists, tourists, and cultural professionals. The development adopts a hub-and-spoke tourism model, positioning Sargaalaya as the central orientation and interpretation hub for integrated cultural, riverine, coastal, literary, martial, and culinary circuits across Malabar. River-based journeys and water experiences will function as experiential corridors, foregrounding ecology, heritage, and local livelihoods. The ecosystem further includes curated food tourism and culinary experiences, including festivals and a floating restaurant rooted in Malabar cuisine; a handloom, design, and retail zone supporting innovation and contemporary applications of traditional textiles; a vibrant flea market strengthening the informal cultural economy; and facilities for social, cultural, and community events, conferences, exhibitions, destination weddings, and themed cultural ceremonies. To enable deeper immersion, the project proposes on-site accommodation and stay facilities designed in harmony with the landscape and local architectural traditions, supporting multi-day cultural tourism, artist residencies, research stays, and family travel. Through this integrated approach, the upcoming phase of Sargaalaya positions culture as core infrastructure for development, envisioning a globally relevant model for experiential, responsible, and knowledge-driven cultural tourism that interprets Malabar for contemporary and international audiences. www.sargaalaya.in Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village Iringal About ULCCS Ltd. Founded in 1925 by social reformer Vagbhatananda Guru, the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society Ltd. (ULCCS) is among Indias most respected worker cooperatives. With 18,000+ employees, 7,500+ completed projects, and global recognitionincluding a World No. 2 ranking in the Industry & Utilities sector by the World Cooperative Monitor for 3 yearsULCCS stands as a UN-recognised model for ethical, inclusive, and quality-driven development. If you are looking for one unforgettable cultural recommendation this season, SIACF 2025 at Sargaalaya is it.
Four of family found dead in Keralas Kannur; family feud over child custody cited as cause
Two more convicts in T.P. Chandrasekharan murder case in Kerala granted parole
Muhammad Shafi and Shinoj, lodged at Kannur Central Jail, have been released on 15-day parole. Jail authorities say it was granted as part of routine or natural parole at the end of the year
Wild elephant triggers panic at Ayyankunnu in Keralas Kannur
Prohibitory orders imposed in four wards
Bank accounts linked to Kerala prisons DIG received Rs 1.5 crore last year: Vigilance
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has filed a report with the state government, seeking tougher action against Prisons Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) M K Vinod Kumar, against whom the state government agency has filed a case for corruption. The officer, who is set to retire next year, has been accused of receiving kickbacks from inmates to help them get parole and facilitating their illegal acts within the prison, including smuggling of drugs and alcohol. The report, sources said, has searing remarks against the officer and mentioned about the large volume of cash transactions via bank accounts of the officer and his wife, who is a homemaker. In the last one year, the two accounts collectively received about Rs1.5 crore. The vigilance conducted a preliminary inquiry against the officer on the basis of intelligence reports, which indicated widespread irregularities on the part of the officer. Sources said he had received varying amounts of cash from inmates for extending their parole periods as well as facilitating smuggling of contraband to the prisons. A strong CPM sympathiser, Vinod grew close to the party leadership following an incident in Viyyur high security prison in 2014 when nine convicts in the T P Chandrasekharan murder case were allegedly tortured there, highly-placed sources told TNIE. The officer reportedly kept himself away from the act that was deliberately orchestrated by prison staff as the TP case convicts were brought there from Kannur central prison. This incident brought him into close contact with the party leadership. Strangely, he took kickbacks from the TP murder case accused as well, which sources claimed were for facilitating their drug and alcohol use within the prisons. Sources added that its because of Vinods connections that the prisons department is yet to take any disciplinary action against him. However, with vigilance sending a report flagging grave misconduct from his side and recommending immediate action, the government is all likely to drop the cudgels soon.
Newly elected local body members take oath in Kannur
Thank you for Everything: Malayalis bid adieu to Sreenivasan
KOCHI: Sreenivasan enjoyed punctuating the tale with hearty amusement. Arriving in Thiruvananthapuram for what he believed was an acting assignment in a film by Priyadarshan, the twenty-something sought to know the nature of his role. The directors reply was blunt... as it was life-altering: There is no script. If Sreenivasan wanted to act, he would have to script it. With nothing to do back home, he stayed on the set and began writing. Both Priyadarshan and Sathyan Anthikad pushed me into the deep end of scriptwriting, he later said at an awards function, and I somehow stayed afloat without knowing how to swim. That reluctant plunge produced one of Malayalam cinemas most original voices. On Saturday, that voice fell silent. The veteran actor, screenwriter and filmmaker was 69. Ailing for long, Sreenivasan was being taken to Amrita Hospital for dialysis when his condition deteriorated. He was rushed to the Tripunithura Taluk Hospital, where he breathed his last. His cremation will be held at 10.30am on Sunday at his residence in Udayamperoor. Sreenivasans death draws the curtains on an era. Few artists chronicled the Malayali psyche with such wit, empathy and sting. Over nearly 48 years, he acted in more than 200 films and wrote screenplays that shaped the industrys golden years. His humour was never decorative; it was dissecting. With an almost journalistic eye, he teased out the hypocrisies embedded in everyday life political posturing, middle-class vanity and masculine insecurity rendering them funny, painful and recognisably human. Born on April 6, 1956, in Pattiam near Thalassery in Kannur district, Sreenivasan grew up in a modest household his father was a schoolteacher and mother a homemaker. Sreenivasan: The goat of satire Actors Mammootty and Mohanlal pay their respects to Sreenivasan at Town Hall in Kochi on Saturday. After his schooling in Kuthuparamba and Kadirur, he studied economics at PRNSS College, Mattanur, before training formally at the Tamil Nadu Government MGR Film and Television Institute, Chennai. He made his acting debut in Manimuzhakkam (1976), directed by P A Backer, and his first lead appearance was in Sanghaganam (1979), also by Backer. But it was writing that unlocked Sreenivasans true range. His debut screenplay, Odaruthammava Aalariyam (1984), announced a new idiom irreverent, observant and unafraid of puncturing social sanctimony. The mid-1980s to early 1990s marked his creative peak, when his writing, often in collaboration with Sathyan Anthikad, produced a string of enduring films including Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Varavelpu, Thalayanamanthram and the immortal Nadodikkattu. Blending humour with social insight, these films, most of which were anchored by Mohanlal, translated middle-class anxieties into movie lore with Nadodikkattu and its sequels attaining cult status and embedding their characters and dialogues deep in Keralas public memory. No film captures Sreenivasans political bite better than Sandesam (1991). A searing satire on over-politicisation, it framed Keralas bipolar politics within the confines of a family home. Polandine kurichu oraksharam mindaruthu! Dont you utter a word about Poland! his retort to Jayarams character remains lodged in the Malayali collective memory three decades on. The joke endures because the truth it skewers still stands. Sandesham earned him the Kerala State Film Award for best story and the status of Malayalam cinemas most influential political satire. As a filmmaker, he was equally incisive. Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989), which he scripted and directed, anatomised male insecurity and patriarchy with rare tenderness and landed him the state award for best film. Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998) explored marital alienation and emotional estrangement, winning the national award for best film on other social issues. In these works, Sreenivasan turned the camera inward, exposing the fragile ego of the typical Malayali man he knew so well. Even as the industry changed, he adapted without blunting his edge. Udayananu Tharam, Katha Parayumpol and Njan Prakashan reintroduced his social satire to a new generation. Njan Prakashan went on to become among Malayalam cinemas highest-grossing films. As an actor, restraint was his strength he played the flawed common man with authenticity, allowing silences to speak as loudly as punch lines. Sreenivasan wore his career accolades lightly. What mattered was the work: Stories that laughed at power, and questioned piety and social mores. He is survived by his wife, Vimala, and sons Vineeth and Dhyan, both established figures in the industry. As his body was kept at Ernakulam Town Hall, the crowds that came to pay their respects reflected on the breadth of Sreenivasans reach from political leaders to ordinary film lovers who saw themselves in his characters. For nearly five decades, he gave voice to the anxieties, contradictions and quiet dignity of the common Malayali. In losing him, Malayalam cinema has lost a storyteller who laughed with society, even as he held an unflinching mirror up to it. THE LEGEND OF SREENI In an illustrious career spanning nearly 48 years, Sreenivasan acted in more than 200 films, directed two movies and wrote screenplays that shaped the industrys golden years A champion of social satire and political criticism and creator of unadulterated humour, he mirrored the Malayali community, with all its vulnerabilities, pettiness, honesty or the lack of it through his scripts. Awards and accolades Sreenivasans directorial venture Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998) won the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues' Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989), which he scripted and directed, won him the Kerala state award for the best film He won the state award for best story for Sandesam (1991), and best screenplay for Mazhayethum Munpe (1995)
Sreenivasan: The goat of satire
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: How political was he? Or apolitical for that matter. Veteran writer- actor- director Sreenivasan 's political screenplays traverse mostly through wafer-thin margins of both the political and apolitical, even at times, merging the two. A master storyteller, he succeeded in capturing the subtle hues of the Malayali psyche via his scripts that almost always reflected Kerala society in its entirety, through a career that spanned almost five decades of stellar creative output. As an untiring champion of social satire, political criticism and creator of unadulterated humour, Sreenivasan mirrored the Malayali community of the 70s and 80s, with all its vulnerabilities, pettiness, honesty or the lack of it through his blockbuster scripts. Be it his first Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu , the widely popular trilogy of Nadodikkattu , Pattana Pravesham, Akkkare Akkare Akkare spread over three years, his screenplays encapsulated storylines that never failed to question the societal convictions of the day. Sandesam , one of his most popular screenplays ever, could well be the rebelliousness of a societal spectator, fed up with the existing system. Contrary to popular perception it was not mere Left bashing or revving up anti-Communist sentiments that Sreenivasan often indulged in. The astute political commentator that he was, Sreenivasan preferred to take a bird's eye view at the sore lack of inner political conviction that often runs as a leitmotif through Kerala society, cutting across all classes. Laced with vibrant political undertones, Sreenivasan's scripts often shed light on a wide variety of topics. Who can ever forget the clipped arbitrary hint of threat hidden within Polandinekurich Oraksharam Mindaruth , an evident reference to the setback faced by Communists in Poland. The ease with which he incorporated a slice of international politics into the socio-cultural-political machinations of a Kerala neighbourhood, stands testimony to his brilliance as a scriptwriter. Sreenivasan exposed pretensions of Malayalis through his satirical movies Exposing the Malayali's innate farcical hypocrisy and in-built contempt for anything and everything around him, Sreenivasan zeroed in on the deep-rooted prejudices and complexes of the Malayali psyche. In a way Sreenivasan, whose dialogues have become ingrained in the minds of Malayalis across the globe, created a kaleidoscope of frames that captured the whole of Kerala society's idiosyncrasies back in the day. Be it the Gulf migration of the 80s and 90s, spiralling unemployment, the typical work-shy youth of the times, their intricate social complexities, lack of political conviction...the list seems endless. Sreenivasan chose to tread a path that differed distinctly from many established writers, be it the legendary M T Vasudevan Nair, widely popular T Damodaran, or the mystic Padmarajan. His cinematic scripts chose to turn the searchlights on the shattered hopes and dreamy future aspirations of the burgeoning Malayali middle class. The average Malayali was ever his faithful audience, the ones he took up his pen for. How would an average Malayali remember him? Sreenivasan could well remain as the master of subtle humour for Malayali movie lovers in the years to come. LIFE AND TIMES OF A LEGEND 1956: Born on April 6 at Pattiam near Thalassery, Kannur 1976: Film debut Manimuzhakkam , directed by P A Backer 1977: Enrolled in Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu, Chennai 1979: First lead role in move Sanghaganam by P A Backer 1984: Debut as writer in Odaruthammava Aalariyam by Priyadarshan. Also married Vimala. 1989: Debut as director with Vadakkunokkiyanthram , which he also wrote himself 1998 - Won national film award for best film on other social issues for Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala Career highlights 1976 Manimuzhakkam 1977 Sneha Yamuna 1980 Mela 1984 Odaruthammava Aalariyam(also writer), Panchavadi Paalam, Akkare 1985 Mutharamkunnu PO (also writer), Punnaram Cholli Cholli (also writer), Aram + Aram Kinnaram (also writer) 1986 T P Balagopalan MA (also writer), Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam (also writer), Oru Katha Oru Nunnakatha (also writer), Dheem Tharikida Thom 1987 Nadodikattu (also writer) 1988 Pattanapravesham (also writer) 1991 Sandesam (also writer) 1993 Midhunam (also writer) 1994 Thenmavin Kombath 1996 Kalapani 2003 Kilichundan Mampazham (also writer) 2007 Arabikkatha 2011 Traffic 2018 Njan Prakasan (also writer)
Sreenivasan exposed pretensions of Malayalis through his satirical movies
KOCHI: Born into a middle class family in Kannur, Sreenivasan had the opportunity to witness the absurd, farcical ideologies and the pretensions of lo cal-level leaders who tried to impose their progressive thoughts on society. The film Sandesam , a political satire written by Sreenivasan and directed by Sathyan Anthikkad in 1991, humorously depicts the clashes between two brothers supporting two ideologically different political parties. The movie remains relevant as it highlights how politics divides families and societies. The dialogues of Kumara Pillai, the ideological guru of the Left party, who makes a critical evaluation of the partys defeat in an election, still fills social media pages with trolls and memes during every election. The dialogue We allow inner party democracy. But you should not question our theoreticians. If you dont follow party discipline, we will teach you continue to resonate in the political sphere. Prabhakaran the politician who visits the house of a prospective bride for a pre-wedding meeting asks whether she is ready to work for the liberation of the working class. He says, The wife of a revolutionary should be ready to meet any consequence and should be ready to face bullets. Sreenivasan had the unique talent to present the trials and tribulations of the middle class families with a touch of humour. While Sandesam portrayed the dark side of factional politics and political rivalry, Varavelppu exposed how trade unions and bureaucracy are jeopardising the lives of youngsters who invest their lifetime savings to earn a livelihood. The story of Varavelppu , which portrays the miseries of a Gulf returnee who starts a bus service, is based on the life of his father. 'He came to play an orphan': Hero of Sreenivasans first film remembers him Sreenivasan held a mirror to society, exposing the pretensions, inferiority complex, and the struggles of the middle class Malayali. As a writer, he was well aware of his limitations and never hesitated to ridicule his own faults and appearance. For the common man, he was a neighbour who understood their struggles to stay afloat. His writing was simple and sharp in its criticism of the hypocrisy and hostility of politicians and the erosion of civility in society. In Vadakkunokkiyantram , he portrays the sense of insecurity and inferiority complex of an unattractive youth who gets married to a beautiful woman and fears that she may desert him. In Chinthavishtayaya Syamala , he plays the role of a school teacher who does not love his profession but searches for shortcuts to become wealthy. The character Vijayan Master is an atheist, but once he goes on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala, he turns an ascetic. When the family pleads with him to end the penance, he asks, Do you mean devotion is seasonal? Films written by him, like T P Balagopalanm MA, Gandhinagar Second Street, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Nadodikattu, Vellanakalude Nadu, Mukundetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu, and Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, sketch the struggles of unemployed youth who continue to dream about a peaceful life while scrambling to face the harsh realities of life. In the film Anaval Mothiram , he plays the role of a lazy and coward police officer who becomes brave and reckless when a blood test reveals that he is suffering from leukemia. In Bhagyavan , directed by Suresh Unnithan and written by C Radhakriswhnan, Balu, the character portrayed by Sreenivasan, goes into hiding as people fight to get him as a guest. An astrologer says that Balu has a unique feature called labhya Labhyasree in his horoscope due to which his presence can bring good fortune to others. He has also characterised villain roles, like Appakkala of Thenmavin Kombathu , Moosa of Kaalapani , Maruthu of Oru Maravathur Kanavu , Bhargavan of Narendran Makan Jayakanthan Vaka , and Moideenkunju Haji of Kilichundan Mampazham . In Traffic and Passenger , he portrayed the roles of a commoner who turns hero in challenging situations.
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, LoP VD Satheesan pay tributes to actor-filmmaker Sreenivasan
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Opposition Leader V D Satheesan on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran filmmaker, actor and screenwriter Sreenivasan, describing his death as an irreparable loss to Malayalam cinema and Keralas cultural life. In a condolence message, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Sreenivasan was a rare, multifaceted talent who left an indelible mark on every sphere of filmmaking, including story, screenplay, direction and acting. He noted that very few filmmakers had succeeded like Sreenivasan in authentically portraying the life of the common man on the silver screen and in leading audiences to deeper levels of social awareness through humour and thought-provoking narratives. The Chief Minister said Sreenivasan broke several long-standing cinematic conventions and possessed the courage to articulate his ideas with wit and clarity, even when he knew these would invite sharp criticism. Even those who strongly disagreed with his views acknowledged and respected his extraordinary talent, he said. Pinarayi Vijayan added that Sreenivasan played a significant role in reshaping the aesthetic sensibility of Malayalam cinema and was particularly effective in expressing his social perspectives through satire. Many of the characters he created and portrayed, the Chief Minister said, would remain etched in the collective memory of Malayalis for generations. Recalling his personal association with the filmmaker, the Chief Minister described Sreenivasans demise as a personal loss as well. He fondly remembered sharing warm and humourous conversations with him during an interview and said Sreenivasan stood as a symbol of love and friendship. Born and brought up in Pattiam in the Kannur district, Sreenivasans life, he noted, was a lesson in perseverance, having transformed his passion for cinema into reality through sheer self-effort. EXPRESS DIALOGUES | Todays politics has gone beyond satire:Sreenivasan Opposition leader V D Satheesan, in his condolence message, described Sreenivasan as an extraordinary artist who, in a unique style, captured the lives of small people in a vast world and great people in a small world. A multifaceted genius of Malayalam cinema, Satheesan said, Sreenivasan turned everything he touched into gold, and his five-decade-long cinematic journey concluded with achievements that few could ever hope to match. Satheesan highlighted the depth of Sreenivasans writing and the breadth of his acting, recalling the filmmakers oft-repeated, humorous remark that it was Priyadarshans trick that made him a screenwriterwhich time proved to be Malayalam cinemas great fortune. Most of the characters he wrote and portrayed, Satheesan said, were deeply familiar figures, rooted in the Malayali collective psyche, and they dismantled conventional notions of heroism, making them timeless. He said classics such as Thalayana Manthram, Vadakkunokkiyantram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala exemplified Sreenivasans ability to blend realism, satire and social critique. Calling him a symbol of extraordinary mental strength and fighting spirit, the Opposition Leader said Sreenivasan portrayed, with rare sensitivity, the many layers of an average Malayalis lifeits love and longing, helplessness and innocence, friendship and bitterness, biting satire and uncomfortable truths. There would hardly be a Malayali who does not recall, at least once a day, something Sreenivasan wrote, said or showed on screen, Satheesan said, noting that his legacy transcended boundaries of age, caste, religion and politics. Recalling a recent interaction in Thiruvananthapuram, he said he had hoped to meet Sreenivasan again on his return to Ernakulam, but fate did not allow it. Both leaders joined the people of Kerala in bidding farewell to Sreenivasanan unparalleled talent, a humane voice of cinema, and a cherished presence who reshaped Malayalam films and society alike.
Actor, screenwriter, and filmmaker Sreenivasan who made Keralites laugh and reflect passes away
KOCHI: Veteran Malayalam actor, screenwriter, and filmmaker Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday at the Tripunithura Taluk Hospital in Kochi. He was 69. Suffering from prolonged health issues, Sreenivasan was being taken to Amrita Hospital for dialysis when his condition deteriorated on the way. He was rushed to the Tripunithura hospital, where he breathed his last. Sreenivasans death marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema. Over a career spanning nearly 48 years, he emerged as one of the most influential creative voices in the industry, shaping popular cinema through sharp satire, humane storytelling, and socially rooted humour. He acted in more than 200 films and wrote screenplays for several landmark works that continue to define Malayalam cinemas golden years. Born on April 6, 1956, in Patyam near Thalassery in Kannur district, Sreenivasan grew up in a modest household. His father was a schoolteacher, and his mother was a homemaker. After completing his schooling in Kuthuparamba and Kadirur, he graduated in economics from PRNSS College, Mattanur, before pursuing formal film education at the Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu, Chennai. He made his acting debut in Manimuzhakkam (1976), directed by P A Backer, and went on to play his first lead role in Sanghaganam (1979). However, it was as a writer that he truly left his mark. His first screenplay, Odaruthammava Aalariyam (1984), announced a new voice in Malayalam cinemairreverent, observant, and unapologetically critical of social hypocrisy. EXPRESS DIALOGUES | Todays politics has gone beyond satire:Sreenivasan The mid-1980s to early 1990s saw Sreenivasan at the peak of his creative powers. Films such as Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Varavelpu, and, most notably, Nadodikkattu , transformed everyday middle-class anxieties into enduring cinematic narratives. Nadodikkattu and its sequels became cult classics, with dialogues and characters entering popular culture and remaining relevant decades later. Sreenivasan frequently collaborated with leading directors such as Priyadarshan, Sathyan Anthikad and Kamal, forming a creative axis that defined mainstream Malayalam cinema. His writing blended humour with political and social critique, most powerfully seen in Sandesam (1991), a biting satire on political opportunism that earned him a Kerala State Film Award. As a director, Sreenivasan proved equally accomplished. Vadakkunokkiyanthram , which he scripted and directed, explored male insecurity and patriarchal attitudes with rare sensitivity and won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film. Nearly a decade later, Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998) addressed marital alienation and emotional conflict, winning the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues. In later years, Sreenivasan remained a significant presence, adapting to changing times without losing his edge. Films such as Udayananu Tharam , Katha Parayumpol and Njan Prakashan reaffirmed his relevance. Njan Prakashan went on to become one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time, introducing his brand of social satire to a new generation of viewers. His contributions were recognised with numerous honours, including a National Film Award, multiple Kerala State Film Awards, Filmfare Awards South, Asianet Film Awards and lifetime achievement honours from film bodies and cultural organisations. As an actor, Sreenivasan was known for his understated performances, often portraying the flawed common man with authenticity and restraint. His screen presence complemented his writing, lending credibility and emotional depth to characters rooted in everyday life. Sreenivasan is survived by his sons Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both established figures in the Malayalam film industry. With his passing, Malayalam cinema loses not just a prolific artist but a conscience keeperone who consistently used humour and storytelling to question society, politics and human relationships.
IUMLs southern push pays dividends
MALAPPURAM: Once regarded as a party largely confined to the Malabar, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has steadily expanded its reach to emerge as one with a statewide presence. Significantly, the party has, for the first time, won representation in all 14 districts. In the local body elections, the League secured 3,203 seats, including 2,843 under its ladder symbol. With a tally of 2,248 grama panchayat members, 300 block panchayat members, 51 district panchayat members, 36 corporation councillors and 568 municipal councillors, it now ranks third among parties in terms of total seats, behind Congress and CPM. In the 2010 local body elections, IUML secured 1,904 seats, with its strength concentrated mainly in north Kerala. By 2020, the party recorded moderate growth, raising its tally to 2,111. In 2025, it marked a major breakthrough, with a sharp surge to 3,203 seats. IUML state general secretary P M A Salam said the partys growth over the years was driven purely by organisational strength. In the past five years, the League has increased its tally by nearly 1,000 seats. We have also strengthened our organisation in the southern districts and won around 80% of the seats we contested. No other party has such a record. In north Malabar, our supremacy is unquestioned. We won the Malappuram district panchayat without opposition, and in other northern districts of the state, we secured almost all the seats allotted to us, he said. The party won all three district panchayat seats it contested in Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram. Even Pathanamthitta, where it had no representation, returned seven members. After a gap, it won two seats each in the Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram corporations, three seats in Kochi corporation, and doubled its strength in Kozhikode corporation from seven to 14. Buoyed by its performance, the League is now staking a claim for deputy mayor posts in Kollam and Kochi, in addition to its existing positions in the Kozhikode and Kannur corporations.
Kozhikodes tabletop airport eased officials decision to choose Kochi
KOCHI: It was a miraculous escape for 160 passengers and crew of the Air India Express flight from Jeddah to Calicut, after the pilots realised mid-air that the landing gear developed a technical glitch, caused by multiple tyre bursts. That the flight was heading to the dangerous table-top airport at Calicut made the scenario all the more dangerous, and the pilots had to make some quick decisions weighing the limited options before them. It was decided to divert the Air India Express flight IX 398 as the tabletop airport at Calicut was posing high risk. Tabletops are risky and challenging to the best of pilots, and here the aircraft landing gear was stuck. So there were no second thoughts to divert the aircraft to nearby airports, said airline sources. The pilots were left with the choice to divert the flight to either Mangaluru, Kannur or to two airports in Goa, but they finally chose Kochi airport, given the airports preparedness and better facilities, including modern firefighting equipment. The preparedness at Kochi airport is world-class. The same was proved in the full-scale mock drill, showcasing the airports emergency preparedness, held just a couple of months back, on October 28, 2025. Further, an emergency landing involving a SpiceJet aircraft in a similar scenario was successfully carried out at the airport two years back. Hence it was decided to divert the flight to Kochi airport and make an emergency landing, even as the pilots were trying to gauge the extent of damage to the landing gear and the tyres,they said. The pilots quickly contacted the Air Traffic Control unit of the Kochi airport mid air at 8.35 am. An alert was sounded and the airport authorities immediately activated the Emergency Response Plan, without wasting a second. The authorities mobilised all relevant operational units, including Airport Fire & Rescue Services (AFRS), medical units, and security personnel, and positioned them along the runway as a precautionary measure. External stakeholders including State Fire & Rescue and State Police also joined them in keeping a high alert and ready to face any eventuality, an airport spokesperson said. The Air India Express flight touched down safely at Kochi airport at 9.08 am under full emergency conditions. However, what proved crucial in the end was the airport fire safety team spraying Fire Retardant Foamall along the course of the dedicated section of runway marked for the emergency landing. With all the emergency services activated, the aircraft landed safely at 9.08 am. During landing, sparks could be seen, and markings formed due to the damaged tyres. We were much relieved after it finally came to a halt. Luckily the aircraft didnt sway too much and the sparks died down even as they formed, the sources said. The gravity of the potentially dangerous situation was revealed when a post-landing inspection by technical teams confirmed that both the tyres on the right-side landing gear and the one at the left side had burst. The emergency response system too worked out to perfection. The markings caused due to the emergency landing were fixed with the help of modern systems. The aircraft was safely taxied off the runway, which was subsequently inspected for debris and released for normal flight operations shortly thereafter. No passenger or crew suffered any injuries. The teams worked in close coordination and the runway was cleared in just 35 minutes as it was (9 am to 10 am) peak traffic hour. All operations were coordinated according to standard procedures, and it is a relief that all passengers and crew are safe and being transported to their destination, said CIAL managing director S Suhas. Meanwhile, a section of passengers protested when the airlines informed the passengers that they would be transported to Calicut by road. The authorities initially assured us that we would be flown to our original destination in Karipur after a brief halt. However, once the passengers disembarked, the airline shifted its stance, stating we will be transported by bus instead, said an agitated passenger. Safe Touchdown 8.35 am: Pilots alert Kochi ATC 9.08 am: Aircraft lands under full emergency 9.45 am: Runway cleared
Kannur varsity presents 373.81-crore Budget with focus on innovation, student welfare
Congress finalises P. Indira as Mayor nominee in Kannur Corporation
As part of UDFs power sharing arrangement, IUML leader K.P. Thahir is being considered for Deputy Mayors post
Ambujakshi gears up to don garb of unique woman theyyam for 10th time
KANNUR: Sixty-two-year-old Ambujakshi M V is preparing for a rare and deeply significant ritual -- perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam. It is the only theyyam performed by women. In keeping with tradition, Ambujakashi -- a resident of Vengara in Pazhayangadi -- will perform the theyyam after completing a rigorous 41-day period of fasting and spiritual discipline. This is considered essential to attain the purity and devotion required to perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam, which holds a special place in the regions ritual heritage. The sacred performance is scheduled to take place at the Thekkumbadu Koolom Thazhekkavu Bhagavathy Temple in Cherukunnu, Kannur district, on December 20, drawing attention for its uniqueness and cultural importance. Im preparing to perform the Theyyam for the 10th time. The occasion is especially meaningful, as Devakkoothu Theyyam is the only theyyam performed by women, Ambujakshi tells TNIE . Sharing her journey towards performing Devakkoothu Theyyam, Ambujakshi described how the tradition was passed on to her within the family. Originally from Kannurs Kappad, she came to Vengara after marriage. Before Ambujakshi took it up, the ritual was performed by the wife of her father-in-laws younger brother. When she was no longer able to continue with it, she trained Ambujakshi in the art and rituals of the performance, with her husband, Kannan, and family lending strong support. Life feels very different now, as many people recognise me for performing theyyam, she says. Earlier, performing the ritual was simply part of my everyday life and attracted little attention. Today, however, Im widely known for my theyyam performances and recognised as a woman who performs this rare and traditional ritual. As part of the theyyam ritual, after observing the 41-day period of fasting at home, she stays at the kavu -- sacred grove -- for three days before the performance. Earlier, the Devakkoothu Theyyam was performed once every two years, but from 2019, the ritual has been performed every year.
Prisoner allegedly assaults official in Kannur jail
UDF comeback to reshape political balance in Malabar
Though LDFs core base remains unshaken in Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, and Palakkad, the Opposition front has drastically overturned the ruling fronts hegemony established in the previous local body polls in 2020
Violence after local body poll result declaration: case filed against CPI(M) workers in Kannur
Police say CPI(M) workers unleashed violence in parts of north Kerala soon after the declaration of the election results
Violence reported in several parts of Kerala after civic poll results
Violence flared across Kerala after local body election results were announced. Clashes erupted in northern districts, including Kozhikode and Kannur. Political party offices were attacked, and vehicles were damaged. Several individuals sustained injuries in the incidents. Police intervened to control the volatile situations in various locations.
LDF consolidates dominance in Kannur district; UDF, BJP, SDPI post gains
The most striking outcome was in Anthoor municipality, where the LDF registered a clean sweep by winning all the 29 wards, several by huge margins
LDFs organisational strength in Kannur intact: K.K. Ragesh
Watch: Kerala local body elections: Congress-led UDF emerges front-runner
The Congress-led United Democratic Front has emerged as the clear front-runner in Keralas local body elections as counting concludes. The UDF secured major gains across grama panchayats, municipalities, and key corporations including Kochi, Thrissur, and Kannur. The ruling LDF trailed in most segments, while the BJP-led NDA made limited gains. Several local bodies remain undecided due to ties.
UDF returns to power in Kannur Corporation
Kerala local body polls: UDF secures majority in Kannur Corporation, set to form council
Several prominent LDF leaders faced defeat
Kannur set for counting amid tight security
Kannur, Kasaragod record huge turnout in local body polls
76.08% vote in second phase of local body polls, Kerala records overall turnout of 73.69%
Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod went to the polls on Thursday (December 11) and 1.16 crore of the 1.53 crore voters in these districts exercised their right to vote.
Bids received for Kasaragod water aerodrome project during UDAN 5.5 bidding
Letter of Intent issued for seaplane operations on routes connecting Kasaragod with Mangaluru and Kannur airports, Union Civil Aviation Minister informs Parliament
Kerala local body polls 2025: Congress candidates attacked in Kannur
In two separate incidents, UDFs two women candidates as well as a polling agent were attacked allegedly by CPI(M) workers
In Kasaragod, four crude bombs found near house of an LDF candidate
Top leaders to cast votes in Kannur as local body polls begin on Dec. 11
Vibrant Kottikalasam marks conclusion of hectic campaigning in Kannur, Kasaragod
In Kannur, the day remained largely peaceful, though a large police force was deployed to maintain law and order in view of the previous elections, while in Kasaragod, the Kottikalasam peaked in Kanhangad town, where all three fronts are expected to face a close contest in the local body elections
Dry day declared in Kannur ahead of local body polls
Hyderabad Airport Receives Bomb Threats to 3 Incoming Flights
The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways' (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansa's (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGo's 6E 7178 from Kannur
Hyderabad airport receives three bomb threats for incoming flights
Hyderabad: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has received three bomb threats to flights coming from different cities, including two international, sources said. The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansas (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGos 6E 7178 from Kannur. Airport sources said all the flights landed safely. 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 .
Fresh bomb threats hit three flights to Hyderabad; second scare in a week at RGIA
HYDERABAD: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has received three bomb threats to flights coming from different cities, including two international, sources said. The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways' (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansas (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGo's 6E 7178 from Kannur. Airport sources said all the flights landed safely. The two international flights landed here during the early hours of Monday. Standard safety protocols were initiated for all three aircraft, sources said. Standard safety protocols include isolation of the aircraft, screening of baggage and passengers, keeping fire engines ready and pressing sniffer dogs into services, among others, sources added. Last week, the RGIA received bomb threat emails for the Dubai-Hyderabad Emirates flight and IndiGo's MadinaHyderabad and Sharjah-Hyderabad flights separately. MadinaHyderabad was diverted to Ahmedabad airport.
Mattannur, Kannur Cantonment remain quiet as State gears up for local body polls
Mattannur is exempt as its governing council has two more years left in its term, while residents of the Kannur Cantonment do not have voting rights in local body polls
Kannurs electoral battlefield: fronts weigh gains and losses as rebel surge reshapes equations
LDF holds structural dominance across the district. Capturing Kannur Corporation remains its symbolic objective, while defending it remains the foremost challenge of UDF that is looking forward to improve its show in three-tier panchayats
Kerala Forest departments camera traps stolen in Vaniyapara; wildlife monitoring hit
Three devices fixed near an old quarry at Pullamparathattu in Kannur were recently found missing
UDF alleges lapses in identifying sensitive booths in Kannur
Kerala local body polls: Rebel trouble haunts UDF in its Kannur stronghold
Rebel candidates are in the fray against both Congress and IUML nominees in the Corporation, prompting the latter to take disciplinary action against four activists. CPI(M) is presenting a team of new faces from diverse professional backgrounds, while the BJP has given priority to women candidates
GCTO accuses Kannur University of violating norms by fixing exams on Saturdays
Government norms allow only five working days a week, with Saturdays becoming working days only in emergencies, it says
Cash, ornaments stolen from temple in Kannur
WATCH: 5 stranded mid-air in sky dining restaurant near Munnar in Kerala, rescue opsunderway
Media reports said that a four-member family from Kannur district and a restaurant staff member have been trapped in the sky dining restaurant. According to the operators, they cannot lower the crane as its hydraulics have stopped working.
BJP accuses LDF, UDF of stalling development in Kannur Corporation
Family of late Kerala dalit activist Chitralekha faces eviction after bank issues foreclosure notice
Kannur Co-operative Urban Bank, controlled by Congress-led management committee, has ordered the family to vacate the house by December 7, warning that it will be seized on December 18 if the dues remain unpaid
Normalcy returns to Indian skies, Air India cancels six flights to carry out precautionary checks
NEW DELHI: The chaos in Indian skies on Monday night, triggered by the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia and the eastward drift of ash, subsided on Tuesday after the ash cloud moved towards China. While Air India cancelled seven of its domestic flights as a precautionary move, other airlines have reported normal operations. An Air India statement said the following six domestic flights stood cancelled on Tuesday (November 25) - AI 2822 ChennaiMumbai; AI 2466 HyderabadDelhi; AI 2444 MumbaiHyderabad and AI 2445 Hyderabad to Mumbai; AI 2471 MumbaiKolkata and AI 2472 Kolkata to Mumbai The following Air India flights have been cancelled as we carry out precautionary checks on those aircraft which had flown over certain geographical locations after the Hayli Gubbi volcanic eruption, it said. The airline had cancelled seven international flights on Monday AI 106 NewarkDelhi; AI 102 New York (JFK)Delhi; AI 2204 DubaiHyderabad; AI 2290 DohaMumbai; AI 2212 DubaiChennai ; AI 2250 DammamMumbai and AI 2284 DohaDelhi. Akasa Air had already announced cancellation of all its flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. It had done the same on Monday too. Indigo had diverted its flight from Kannur to Ahmedabad on Monday. Massive ash cloud drifts toward northern India as Ethiopias Hayli Gubbi erupts after 10,000 years Spokespersons from Indigo, Spicejet and Air India Express said that they had not cancelled any of their flights on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in a statement said there was no cause for concern presently. Following the 23 Nov volcanic eruption in Ethiopia and the eastward movement of the ash cloud, MoCA along with ATC, IMD, airlines and international aviation agenciesis ensuring seamless coordination. AAI has issued the necessary NOTAM and all affected flights have been kept informed. Operations across India remain smooth, with only a few flights rerouted or descended as a precaution, it added. There is no cause for concern at this moment. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide timely updates to ensure passenger safety, the Ministry added. Air India passengers upset Passengers whose flights were cancelled took to social media to lash out at Air India for not keeping them informed for hours even after the flight was cancelled. Flyer Teekam Singh Gehlot said he had booked a ticket on his Air India flight from Mumbai to Kolkata on Tuesday. No information about cancellation of flight and boarding pass was issued, he said. Only after security checks, he learnt about the cancellation, he said billing it a horrible experience. Passenger Aswari E said, I had my booking from Dammam to Mumbai. Very pathetic service by ground staff , no clear communication. After 6 hours they brought all the passengers from immigration area and left them stranded in the departure area. Until now no one contacted me for the rescheduled flight, she said. Referring to the same flight, Ruchit Mehta added, Very pathetic treatment at Dammam Airport. No food or refreshment provided to passengers till 3 AM in the morning. No accommodation or travel allowance given to some passengers. The Air India statement added, Our ground teams across the network are keeping passengers updated on their flight status and are providing immediate assistance, including hotel accommodation. We are making every effort to arrange alternative travel at the earliest. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen situation beyond our control. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. Ethiopia volcano eruption disrupts flights in India; ash cloud to clear by evening
UDF, BJP campaign boards vandalised in Kannur
'EC, SIR Will Be Responsible': After BLOs Suicide In Kerala, Another Officer Threatens Suicide
Antony, a BLO in Kottayam, threatened suicide over SIR workload, days after Aneesh George, a BLO in Kannur, died by suicide due to similar stress linked to election duties.
Bar hotel employee found dead in Kannur
LDF claims win in 10 wards in Kannur, Kasaragod
With no opposition, LDF secures four wins in Kannur
CPI(M) bags two seats in Anthoor municipality and two in Malapattam grama panchayat. DCC president says UDF candidates nominations were rejected to help the LDFs cause
Another BLO Dies By Suicide In Bengal, Family Alleges SIR Work-Related Stress; Note Recovered
Rinku Tarafdar, a BLO in West Bengal, was found dead amid SIR workload stress. Similar suicides occurred in Jalpaiguri, Jaipur, and Kannur. Mamata Banerjee urged suspension of SIR.
Congress fields senior leader in Vengad panchayats 15th ward in Kannur
Congress rebel predicts repeat of 2015 in Kannur Corporation
BLO given tearful farewell in Kannur
Congress, BJP allege CPI(M) threat led to BLO Aneesh Georges death
Kannur District Congress Committee (DCC) president releases audio clip to back the claim.
121 nominations filed in Kannur for local body polls on day 1
UDF finalises seat-sharing in Kannur Corporation; candidate list released
IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty alleges unholy haste by ECI in conducting SIR in Kerala
IUML raises various issues, including death of Kannur booth level officer allegedly due to work pressure, as reasons for seeking a halt to SIR in Supreme Court
Kannur BLOs death linked to work pressure, claims panchayat president
Kankol-Alappadamba panchayat president M.V. Sunil Kumar says Aneesh George was under extreme pressure adding that he repeatedly told superiors he was unable to cope with the responsibilities assigned
BLO ends life in Kerala; SIR-related stress blamed
PTI | Kannur (Kerala) A school employee, who was working as a Booth Level Officer (BLO) as part of the upcoming local body elections, was found hanging in his house in this north Kerala district on Sunday, police said. Local people and his family members alleged that Aneesh George (44) took the extreme step due []
SIR claims a life in Kerala? 44-year-old BLO dies by suicide, family alleges...
A 44-year-old Booth Level Officer (BLO) in Kerala's Kannur district was found dead at his home, allegedly due to mental pressure from Special Intensive Revision (SIR) duties.
Kerala's electoral roll revision faces a boycott by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) on Monday following the death of one in Kannur, allegedly due to intense work pressure. Trade unions claim unrealistic targets for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and upcoming local body polls are pushing BLOs to the brink. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the BLO's death.
BLO's Suicide in Kannur Triggers Huge Protest in Kerala
Who took the extreme step because of alleged huge work pressure on Sunday
Kannur BLO Commits Suicide Amid SIR-Related Work Stress
Local people and his family members alleged that Aneesh George (44) took the extreme step due to work pressure in connection with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls.
Extend deadline for Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls: CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam
He was reacting to the alleged suicide of a booth-level officer, Aneesh George, in Kannur
Case of unnatural death registered after booth-level officer found dead in Kannur
Chief Electoral Officer seeks report from District Collector on the incident
