kochi News

Mohanlal's mother Santhakumari passes away at 90 due to..., Mammootty pays final respects

Mohanlal's mother Santhakumari spent most of her life in Thiruvananthapuram, before Mohanlal brought her to Kochi following a stroke. The medical episode left her paralysed, and she remained bedridden for nearly a decade.

Mohanlal's Mother Santhakumari Dies At 90 In Kochi

Mohanlal's mother had been battling prolonged health issues and was bedridden for some time

Actor Mohanlal's mother Santhakumari passes away

She was 90. The death occurred at the actors residence at Elamakkara in Kochi. Santhakumari had been ailing for some time owing to neurological disorders

Major fire guts several shops in Kochis Broadway

No casualty was reported though the blaze is estimated to have caused losses to the tune of lakhs of rupees

All but News

Look, an investor A recent startup event in Kochi had young entrepreneurs, some right out of college, putting up stalls detailing their ambitious projects. It so happened that this correspondent was accorded a warm welcome to the venue, with the organisers and the top Kerala Startup Mission officials going out of their way to extend greetings. People, especially those manning the stalls, took note. Unaware of the buzz around my entry, I walked up to the stall of a startup that developed games. The enthusiastic founders started explaining their product and their business idea. Good story, I thought, and took the discussion forward. Soon, with a flourish, the youngsters took out their visiting cards and requested a meet-up to discuss their product further. Suddenly, the realisation dawned: They are after funding and I am their prospective investor! Oh no, Im a journalist, I corrected, setting off loud laughter. The founders, however, were quick to clarify that a story on them would be just as important. Anu Kuruvilla Jackfruit for lunch, in the wild On an assignment to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, I set off from Kottayam at dawn, armed with a notebook and on the strength of a cup of coffee. En route from Marayur, I hoped to find some shop. Instead, the road slipped quietly into reserve forest stretchesno shops, no tea stalls only trees and wildlife warnings. Past the checkpost and a five-kilometre drive through the sanctuary, I was at my destination a tribal settlement -- around 2 pm. By then, I was so hungry I felt capable of devouring an elephant! As is their custom, the Muthuvan community welcomed me warmly. An elderly woman offered coffee, and on learning I had missed lunch, the tribal chief promptly plucked out an elephant-sized treat -- a ripe jackfruit. He sliced it open, served as fresh as any. Perhaps it was the hunger, or the kindness, but that was the sweetest jackfruit ever! Talk of hospitality. Nejma Sulaiman Deja vu in Paris A week-long stay for a climate conference in Paris, the fashion capital of the world, enabled this reporter to see up close its impressive civic sense, love for arts, polite behaviour, and the way Parisians valued privacy. But on September 18, as I walked around the streets, a sense of shared culture hit me. There it was, playing out in front of my eyes a massive protest march... in Paris! The metro system and the suburban rail service were disrupted, not to speak of traffic snarl-ups, as thousands of workers led by 10 trade unions marched down the streets protesting President Emmanuel Macrons proposal for budget cuts. Placards, slogans, and dancing on the streets as if I was back witnessing one of the routine protests on the Palayam-Secretariat stretch in Thiruvananthapuram. My journalist friend quipped: A cultural connect! Manoj Viswanathan Fritters? No, politics Covering local body elections entails travelling to the remote corners of a district, Kasaragod in this reporters case. Having reached the border town of Muligadde, hardly a kilometre from Karnataka, after a long day, my friend and I sought refuge at a roadside shack for some refreshment. We attempted to strike a conversation on politics, in chaste Malayalam. The shop owner returned a blank look and called in his cook. The elderly man began explaining the fritters on offer, in Tulu! It was our turn to return that blank look. I racked my brain to brush up on some Kannada. The conversation then turned into an interesting mixture of Tulu, Malayalam and broken Kannada. But none of us understood what the other was saying! Finally, two other customers came to our rescue. Its about politics, chetta! Well, the awkward smiles said it all: Theres plenty to learn in a district that speaks seven languages. Arockiaraj J Location live, assault invited Amid the political uproar over a sexual assault complaint, this correspondent rang up a police officer in Malappuram to verify certain facts. Instead of offering the usual grim response, the officer jumped straight into describing a critical turn of events, in all seriousness: An IUML worker abused that particular survivor while chatting in a local WhatsApp group. He then picked a fight with CPM workers, dragged their wives into it, shared his live location daringly, and went home and slept. The CPM workers took the location pin seriously, followed Google Maps, reached his house, and attacked him while he was snoring! The moment he finished the account, we burst out laughing, simultaneously. That, the officer said, was the first instance in his career of a victim sending an invitation to the attackers. (The IUML worker suffered minor injuries and the CPM workers were caught.) Lakshmi Athira Love in the time of AI Out of nowhere, the RahulAshwathi Chechi romance flooded Keralas social media timelines. Emotions ran wild and shares multiplied before questions could even arise. The story felt so real a childhood rescue, a life-altering sacrifice, and a love wrapped in pure Malayali sentiment that thousands admired it without blinking. But the deeper I dug, the touching love story turned into a reporters nightmare. As the cinematic fog cleared, a digital villain came to the fore: artificial intelligence! No real Rahul, no heroic lorry scene, just an expertly crafted AI narrative that hijacked human empathy and went viral. By the time the truth surfaced, the damage or rather the business was done, proving yet again that in the age of scrolling thumbs and soft hearts, feelings trend faster than facts. Pooja Nair Looming deadline and a deep dive More than eight years after the traumatic night, and nearly five years after the trial began, the long-awaited verdict in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case was pronounced on December 8. Actor Dileep was acquitted, while Pulsar Suni and five others were convicted. For the public, it was a verdict. For this correspondent, it was the culmination of years of reporting marked by shock, exhaustion, and quiet pain. Four days after the verdict, on December 12, I reached the court at 9 am. The courtroom was jam-packed, heavy with anticipation. By 11 am, the sentence was announced. A familiar ritual followed, of reporters waiting for the verdict copy. Hours passed. Afternoon slipped into evening. At 9 pm, I was still on the court premises, empty-handed, deadline looming. With no copy of the verdit in sight, I headed to the office to file the main story and allied reports. Even after finishing those, the hunt for the all important document continued. At 10.30 pm, news broke that the verdict copy was out. Immediately, I called my source, a lawyer representing two of the accused persons. He received the copy at 11 pm and I rushed to collect it. The days final edition was drawing close. Back in the office, I opened the massive order -- 1,709 pages! I couldnt help but stare at it for a few seconds. Quickly, the deadline bell rang in my head, and I dived into the details. Thankfully, almost immediately, my eyes caught a crucial section: the court posing questions on the person behind the alleged quotation. I read that portion at breakneck speed, focused only on what mattered most for the story. Somehow, through fatigue and adrenaline rush, I finished writing in time. I felt a rare happiness, more relief than joy, having filed a story based directly on the verdict the very same day. P Ramdas

Pappanji to be burnt at Kovalam Crafts Village

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Bringing the long-running Fort Kochi Pappanji tradition to Kovalam, a 40-feet-high effigy has been set up at the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village and will be set on fire at midnight on December 31 as part of the New Year celebrations. This is the first time Kovalam is formally adopting the Pappanji ritual, believed to symbolise bidding farewell to the old year and its troubles. The effigy has been built over 10 days by a team of around 10 artists. The structure has been designed to be visible from a distance inside the campus. Chief Operating Officer T U Sreeprasad added that the preparations were in the final stage. Public viewing of the effigy will be allowed till 3 pm on December 31. From 7 pm, stage programmes will commence at the venue, which will continue till midnight. The burning of the effigy along with a fireworks display will mark the beginning of the New Year. As Kovalam is now joining the list of venues hosting Pappanji burning, organisers expect the event to grow into an annual New Year attraction similar to the Fort Kochi model, though on a smaller scale to begin with. The celebrations are being held under the banner Epilogue, the fourth edition of the New Year event at the venue.

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.

Kerala temples strike gold with silver

KOCHI: For decades, silver in Keralas temples lived in the shadows always the bridesmaid to glittering gold, rarely the bride. Offered by devotees as lamps, vessels and ornaments, and tucked away in backspaces and strongrooms, the white metal was long treated as ceremonial surplus rather than serious wealth. That changed dramatically in 2025 as the global silver prices crossed the $77-an-ounce mark this week, gaining over 167% so far this year. A stunning surge in silver prices has pushed the once-overlooked metal into the spotlight, turning dusty temple inventories into valuable financial assets. Nowhere is this shift more visible than at the iconic Guruvayur Sree Krishna temple. Long content to keep its silver holdings out of sight, the temple recently monetised nearly five tonnes of the metal, unlocking about Rs 35 crore in the process. As per available data, the Guruvayur temple receives an average 120125 kg of silver annually as offerings from devotees. In November 2025 alone, it received 12.154 kg of silver, followed by 8.025 kg in December. Similarly, big temples like Attukal and Sabarimala, as well as Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple receive huge offerings in silver in various forms like lamps, bowls, statuette, said B M Nagarajan of Rajan Jewellery in Chalai, Thiruvananthapuram. Miniature human figurines are offered for prosperity and good health. When I started my shop 50 years ago, a half-gram figurine in silver (alroopam) cost about 50 paise. Today, it costs over Rs 25, he said. Ezhikode Sasi Namboothiri, who has served as melshanti at both Sabarimala and Guruvayur, said silver has always been an intrinsic part of temple rituals, with some traditions placing it ahead of gold because of its properties. Price rally has altered market psychology For certain poojas, silver bowls are mandatory. People have been offering miniature human figures to temples for decades, and silver has been the preferred metal, he said. Trade bodies say the price rally has altered market psychology. S Abdul Nazar, general secretary of the Gold & Silver Merchants Association, told TNIE that silver prices have surged sharply, at times even outperforming gold. Investment demand, its inclusion in the US critical minerals list, and momentum buying have all played a role, he said. Silver, he added, is now trading around Rs 250260 per gram, up from about Rs 100125 per gram a year ago. Sundaravalli Narayanaswami, chairperson of the India Gold Policy Centre -IIMA, said silver prices are set to increase further. I dont perceive any immediate downside. At best, it may plateau sometime soon. Again, the causes are due to macroeconomic factors and global markets. India is impacted, but has little influence on this, she added.

Sreejith V. Nair Elected New President Of Kerala Cricket Association

Kerala Sports Infrastructure Development Scheme: Sreejith V. Nair has been elected as the new President of the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) during the organisations 75th Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) held on Monday. Nair, a former treasurer and secretary of the Association, will take over from Jayesh George, whos currently serving as Chairman of the Womens Premier League (WPL). Satheesan K, a former member of the Apex Council, has been elected as the Vice President. Incumbent Secretary Vinod S. Kumar and Joint Secretary Bineesh Kodiyeri will continue in their respective positions. T. Ajith Kumar, Secretary of the Palakkad District Cricket Association, has been elected as the new Treasurer, while Muhammed Naufal T., Secretary of the Kasaragod District Cricket Association, has been appointed as the General Body Representative to the Apex Council. The new office bearers also approved a one-year comprehensive development plan aimed at upgrading cricket infrastructure in all 14 districts and raising player development systems across the state to international standards. KCA will implement major projects under the Kerala Sports Infrastructure Development Scheme announced by the State Government, utilising the special concessions granted under the Land Act. As part of the plan, cricket grounds and related facilities will be developed in all 14 districts of the state. Infrastructure for other sports will also be developed alongside cricket facilities, with the objective of ensuring uniform training standards and modern amenities across districts, said the KCA. Nair also said the KCA aims to construct an international cricket stadium in Kochi in collaboration with the state government. Further discussions will be held with the government to secure a long-term lease of the Sports Hub International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram and to establish a High Altitude Sports Centre at Munnar for cricket, football and other sports, he said. As part of the plan, cricket grounds and related facilities will be developed in all 14 districts of the state. Infrastructure for other sports will also be developed alongside cricket facilities, with the objective of ensuring uniform training standards and modern amenities across districts, said the KCA. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In addition, the General Body resolved to further strengthen the existing High Performance Centre, ensuring advanced training facilities, sports science laboratories, fitness and rehabilitation centres, and access to expert coaches, concluded KCA. Article Source: IANS

Kochi Mayor promises corruption-free governance, to hold public hearings

She says a special drive will be conducted to collect tax dues without overburdening citizens to ensure the Corporations financial stability

Kochi Mayor unveils 50-day action plan ahead of Assembly polls

V.K. Minimol says action plan will aim at finding solutions to multiple challenges, including waterlogging, waste management, mosquito eradication, and stray dog menace

Anand Mahindra shares Kochi's best kept secret: 'Just pure passion....'

Anand Mahindra shared a touching story from Kochi about JD's Jukebox, a private residence housing nearly 6,000 vintage vinyl records. Created by Sujit as a tribute to his late mother, the space has become a cultural hub for music lovers and local artists. Mahindra lauded the dedication to preserving musical authenticity over commercial success.

Etching memory: An exhibition at Kochi Muziris Biennale set in the 1930s examines a colonial mistrial and its impact on a Syrian Christian woman

A mistrial, a matriarch, a memory. An exhibition at the Kochi Muziris Biennale, tells the story of Eliamma Matthen, whose inter-generational fight against one familial injustice, changed the very trajectory of her life and her family. In Lilies in the Garden, explore the role of women as witnesses to injustice, keepers of history, and agents of creative survival

Traffic blocks, NH works hit Eravikulam footfall

IDUKKI: Despite the holiday season, prolonged traffic congestion caused by ongoing development works on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi national highway has begun to affect tourist movement in and around Munnar, with the impact most evident at Eravikulam National Park. Tourists heading to the hill station continue to face long hours of gridlock, especially along the Neriamangalam-Munnar stretch and within town limits. The congestion, which worsens during weekends and peak hours, has discouraged many from planning short trips, residents said. A park official said daily turnout has dropped sharply in recent days. The number of visitors, which was earlier above 3,000 a day, has now dropped to between 2,000 and 2,400. Although arrivals were good till December 25, there has been a clear decline since then, the official said. According to the official, road congestion has played a major role in the dip. Due to bad traffic hold-ups from Neriamangalam to Munnar and within town, tourists from within the state are not travelling to Munnar for weekend visits. Most of the current visitors are from outside Kerala, mostly from Tamil Nadu and northern states, he added. However, the data from other tourist centres in Munnar presents a mixed picture. According to the District Tourism Promotion Council, visitor numbers at Mattupetty remained largely steady during the holiday period, hovering between 344 and 450 a day between December 20 and 27. In contrast, the Botanical Garden witnessed a steady rise in footfall, with numbers increasing from 1,612 on December 20 to over 5,000 on December 27, indicating that tourists are preferring easily accessible attractions within town limits. On social media platforms, tourists who visited the hill station have been urging prospective visitors to avoid crowded tourism spots, warning that long hours of traffic congestion could completely spoil the holiday mood. Meanwhile, nearby Vattavada has witnessed good tourist numbers. There has been a considerable inflow of tourists since the Christmas holidays, and hotels and homestays are almost fully booked, said Azhakesh K G, a resident. Offering a broader perspective, Benny, a homestay owner in Munnar, said perceptions of a tourism slowdown often stem from selective viewpoints. The idea that Munnar tourism is low usually comes from people who view the situation negatively or from operators running low-quality or unlicensed rooms. Reputed, experience-focused properties are still getting good guests, he said. Industry stakeholders said unless traffic management improves and road development works are expedited, congestion could continue to influence how tourists move within Munnar and its surrounding destinations during peak seasons.

The year 2025 in art

The year we are leaving behind will be mostly remembered for the conflicts that escalated, the political landscapes that changed, the technological advancements that pushed all known boundaries, and for a multitude of things for which we must feel grateful. Here's a look back at the year in art. Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer by Gustav Klimt When the hammer came down to smash records It was a good year at the auction house. After 20 minutes of intense bidding, Gustav Klimts Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer sold for a record $236.4 million, making it the second most expensive artwork ever sold at an auction, with da Vincis Salvator Mundi obviously occupying the first place. The painting is a full-length portrait of the daughter of Klimts patrons. Confiscated by the Nazis after Austrias annexation in 1938, the painting was acquired by a private collector when it resurfaced in the market in the early 80s. After decades out of public view, the artwork made a splash when it appeared at a Sothebys auction in November. It was more than just a good year for women artists at art auctions. Mexican artist Frida Kahlos self-portrait from 1940, titled The Dream (The Bed), fetched $54.7 million at Sothebys in November, making her painting the most expensive artwork by a female artist ever sold at an auction. As for the living women artists, South African artist Marlene Dumass painting from 1997, titled Miss January, sold for $13.63 million at Christies, shattering previous auction records for contemporary female artists. Although we still have a long way to go to bridge the gender pay gap, these records are positive signs of the growing recognition of female artists in an otherwise male-dominated art market. Best drama of the year The Louvre Heist, without a doubt was dubbed the drama of the year. Not just that, the theft of priceless crown jewels in broad daylight from the Louvre Museum in Paris will perhaps go down in history as the heist of the century. Petty local criminals executed this daring plan by gaining access to the first floor with a mechanical ladder and cutting through the glass, before escaping on a scooter with their loot. 2025 saw the rise of several such museum robberies. Another audacious raid that even used explosives happened at the Drents Museum in the Netherlands in January, which led to the loss of invaluable Dacian gold artefacts. In September, a museum in Bristol reported the theft of 600 artefacts linked to the British Empire. In true Hollywood style, two masked gunmen walked into an exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in So Paulo one December morning, seized eight artworks by Henri Matisse and five by Brazilian modernist Portinari and fled on foot. In November, a Roman museum was robbed, and numerous Roman-era gold coins were taken away, while more than 1000 items were stolen from the Museum of California in October. There has been an increasing interest in cultural artefacts and masterpieces by renowned artists among criminal networks, and it is time for all institutions to reassess their security measures to ensure the protection of their collections. Statue of Liberty by Amy Sherald Crackdowns on art The change in the political climate in many countries has left museums and cultural institutions in a state of instability. Governments used their authoritarian control over the budgets allocated to institutions to interfere with the institutions programmes. Threats to cut funding were used to coerce museums to align with government approved ideologies. In the US, the Trump administration used this tactic with the Smithsonian Museum in order to force it to comply with a content review. Most institutions also face the pressure of censorship, with strict orders being given indirectly to avoid controversial topics. American artist Amy Sherald cancelled her show at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery after officials expressed doubts about the inclusion of her portrait of a Black Transgender woman as the Statue of Liberty, as they did not want to antagonise President Trump. Germany also witnessed the cancellation of several shows which had the crisis in Gaza as the primary theme, as it went against the states pro-Israel stance. The Indian government denied permission to screen 19 films at the 2025 International Film Festival of Kerala, held in December, without stating any concrete reasons to do so. Films that focused on Palestine were on the list, along with a few, like the Spanish film Beef , that were banned merely for their titles. The tensions within federally funded institutions due to political interference have definitely affected artistic expression, and 2025 was certainly a tough year for most museums that struggled to retain their autonomy and integrity. Ram V Sutar A world lost forever The world of art bid adieu to many luminaries this year. While the world mourned the loss of renowned filmmaker David Lynch, iconic architect Frank Gehry, artist Alison Knowles (a prominent figure in the Fluxus Movement) and several other artists, collectors and museum directors, India also said farewell to many who left enduring legacies. Himmat Shah, one of Indias foremost sculptors, passed away in March, Mohammad Abdul Rauf, a national award-winning craftsman in Bidri art, left us in February, while Ram V Sutar, who became internationally famous for the worlds tallest statue, the monumental Statue of Unity, died in December. Although these brilliant minds may no longer physically exist, they will continue to inspire and influence art for generations. Despite a year that felt like a roller coaster ride, there is a yearning for peace and clarity as we await the brand new year. It is heartening to have the Kochi Biennale which opened on December 12, as a wonderful experience to end the year with or perhaps to welcome 2026! So go ahead and indulge in some art and culture to kick start the year!

Rishikesh forest survey sparks mass rail blockade; protesters clash with police

DEHRADUN: Tensions erupted in Rishikesh today as hundreds of local residents, fearing displacement due to a Supreme Court-mandated survey of forest land, staged a dramatic protest on active railway tracks. The blockade, led largely by women, brought rail traffic to a standstill and escalated into clashes with security forces. The disruption occurred near the Mansa Devi Railway Crossing, where residents gathered to express outrage over the Forest Departments demarcation exercise. The survey follows Supreme Court directives concerning encroachment on designated forest areas. We will give up our lives, but we will not give up our land, chanted protestors, many of whom have occupied the land for decades, as they sat firmly on the tracks. Rail operations were immediately affected. The Gangotri Express, heading towards Yog Nagari station, and another train arriving from Kochi were delayed for nearly an hour and a half, causing significant inconvenience to passengers and disrupting the wider network schedule. The situation turned tense when, during attempts at negotiation, stones were allegedly hurled at security personnel. Police reportedly responded with a lathi charge to disperse the crowd, but demonstrators remained resolute. Additional PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) units were deployed, and senior administrative and police officials are currently at the site. The dispute originates from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in which the Supreme Court directed the Forest Department and District Collector to survey and reclaim vacant forest land. Local councillor Abhinav Singh Malik sought to reassure residents, stating, This action is being taken under the highest courts order. Only demarcation is underway. There is no need to panic. The next hearing is on 5 January, which everyone is awaiting. Malik added that a committee could be formed, if necessary, to present the residents case before the Supreme Court. Protesters are demanding that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal be invited for dialogue, urging the government to convene a special assembly session to grant rights over the occupied land through legislation. The dispute concerns roughly 2,866 acres of land in the Rishikesh region. Records show that the land was leased for 99 years to the Pashu Lok Seva Mandal Sansthan on 26 May 1950, with the lease expiring in 2049. The terms specified its use for animal husbandry, horticulture, fodder production, and allied activities. Subsequent inquiries revealed the land was allegedly used for unauthorised commercial activities and sub-let to third parties, violating the original lease agreement.

Pappanji to be set ablaze at two venues in Fort Kochi this New Year

The effigy put up by the Cochin Carnival Committee will be burnt at Parade Ground, while Gala De Fort Kochi, a local charity club, has received permission to burn the effigy it erected at Veli Ground

Railway police nab two for alleged theft in Kochi

AlHind Air in BIG trouble? Airline puts 120 employees on 'no work, no pay' leave days after getting NOC, due to...

Days after India's aviation ministry issued a 'no objection certificate' to AlHind Air and FlyExpress, Kochi-based Alhind Air airlines, has put over 120 of its employees on a o work, no pay leave. Here's why.

Ola Electric fast-tracks rollout of 4680 Bharat Cell powered vehicles

New Delhi: Ola Electric on Sunday said it has scaled up deliveries of its 4680 Bharat Cell powered S1 Pro+ (5.2 kWh) across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, and Karnataka. The company has commenced deliveries across Coimbatore, Kochi, and Hyderabad, along with continued ramp-up in Bengaluru, Ola Electric said in a statement. The S1 Pro+ (5.2 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 .

A Shot story

CPM stalwart V S Achuthanandan passed away on July 21 at the age of 101, leaving an indelible imprint on not just the Communist movements political markings, but on every milestone woven into the states socio-cultural fabric. Poverty eradication sustained? On November 1, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared Kerala free of extreme poverty making it the first state in the country to achieve the status. Though the nature of the announcement, with Mammootty in attendance, made it seem as much a PR moment as a policy milestone, the state government deserves credit for making a sustained effort to identify extremely poor families. Rajeev Chandrasekhar succeeded K Surendran as the states new BJP chief. Initially branded an outsider , Rajeev emerged as a power player after the partys victory in TPuram corporation. The Malayalam film fraternity came together to pay rich tributes to actor, screenwriter, and director Sreenivasan , whose satirical films reshaped popular cinema and made generations laugh. Gold-clad plates being removed from the sanctum sanctorum of the Sabarimala temple as part of the SIT probe into the alleged misappropriation and sale of gold, carried out by falsifying records to show them as copper during refurbishment in 2019, exposing systemic fraud and potential links to smuggling rings. Fierce sea surges and relentless coastal erosion have displaced dozens of fisher families, laying bare the vulnerability of Keralas 590-km-long shoreline. According to various studies, over 55% of Keralas coastline is at risk of erosion. There has also been a staggering loss of 647 acres of coastal land along a 58-km stretch in Thiruvananthapuram district alone over the past 14 years, highlighting the urgent need for effective coastal protection measures in the state From the start, the state governments Messi project was riddled with confusion, shifting sponsors, and half-baked plans that kept fans guessing whether Argentine superstar Lionel Messi would ever set foot in the state. The anticipation, however, ended in vain. The AMMA made history, electing Shwetha Menon as its president the first woman to hold the post in the film bodys 30-year history A stray dog stands atop a boundary wall marked with civic poll campaign graffiti and posters, capturing a striking contrast between the feverish political outreach across the state and the persistent issue of stray dog menace, which continues to trouble the public. Last respects being offered by the family of N Ramachandran , a 65-year-old Kochi native who was among the 26 civilians killed in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 this year Mundakkai natives Radha and Pathumma embrace at Puthumala graveyard on the first anniversary of the devastating Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslides in Wayanad . The day was marked by sombre remembrances, prayers, and reflections on the tragedy that struck on July 30, 2024, claiming over 298 lives Mother Eliswa , the first nun of the Catholic Church in Kerala, was elevated to the rank of blessed in November. It was on April 14 that Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of Mother Eliswa People throng the Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court premises following the acquittal of Dileep in the actor assault case after the prosecution failed to establish conspiracy charge against him. Six accused were convicted. The lynching of Ramnarayan Baghel , a migrant worker from Chhattisgarh, on suspicion of theft at Walayar in Palakkad sits uneasily with Keralas image as a fully literate state. Ramnarayans wife, Lalitha, breaks down on seeing his body. This is the 5th lynching of a migrant in the state in the past decade Kochi-Muziris Biennale began in December, featuring 22 venues and seven collaterals, significantly widening the socio-historical as well as political footprints of the new-age art exhibition

Kathakali artist to weave Pahalgam terror attack into solo performance

KOCHI: Moved by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22 this year, a kathakali artist has composed a 45-minute dance drama that conveys the shock, grief, and outrage over the incident. Kalamandalam Vijayakumar, a kathakali artist settled in the UK for the past four decades, has choreographed a solo performance incorporating four evergreen Malayalam film songs composed by legendary music director G Devarajan to deliver the anguish over the attack. The first performance will be staged at the Devarajan Master Museum and Research Centre at Paravoor in Kollam district on January 9. The songs selected for the performance are Ezhu Sundara Rathrikal from the film Ashwamedham (1967), Chandra Kalabham Charthi from Kottaram Vilkanundu (1975), Manjalayil Mungi Thorthi from Kalithozhan and Ayiram Padasarangal Kilungi from the film Nadhi (1969). While Manjalayil was written by P Bhaskaran, the other three songs were by Vayalar Rama Varma.Initially, I thought of composing the lyrics for the performance. However, I felt that using these immortal songs would help connect with the audience easily, Vijayakumar told TNIE. The story depicts the tragedy that befell Himanshi Narwal, the wife of Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, whose photograph that showed her sitting numb beside husbands body triggered outrage across the world. The couple, married just six days earlier, was on a honeymoon trip to Kashmir when the tragedy occurred. The photograph was so disturbing that I couldnt sleep for days. I felt a strong urge to express my anguish through my art, Vijayakumar said. He said the story starts with the heroine dreaming over her marriage.For that, I have adapted the song Ezhu Sundara Rathrikal. After marriage, the couple reaches Kashmir, and the stunning mountains, lush valleys, and the serene lakes create a perfect landscape for their love to flourish, for which I have adapted the song Chandra Kalabham.... And Manjalayil Mungi Thorthi conveys the intimacy of the lovers, he said. Subsequently, the artist will convey the terror attack through manodharmam, an expressive dramatic narration. The woman hears the gun shots and frantically runs around in search of her husband. She finds men lying dead in pools of blood and desperately searches for her husband, and finally finds his bullet-riddled body. The performance will end with the lines Omale... Onnu Chirikkoo Orikkal Koodi, which is part of the song Ayiram Padasarangal Kilungi. Vijayakumar and his wife Barbara have played a key role in popularising kathakali in the Western world, with the couple having organised more than 3,000 kathakali stage shows in Europe during the past four decades. Barbara is the first woman artist to take up chutty, the intricate make-up for kathakali. A native of Manimala in Kottayam district, Vijayakumar met Barbara when she arrived in Kalamandalam to learn chutty in 1975.

Over 4 kg of suspected hybrid ganja seized at Kochi airport

Kochi metro and water metro to operate additional services on New Years Eve

On the night of December 31, Kochi water metro services will resume after a short break on the High CourtMattancherry and High CourtVypin routes

Satheesans coup led to Minimols ascent to Kochi mayoral chair

KOCHI: V K Minimols elevation as the 23rd Mayor of the Kochi Corporation is less a routine leadership choice and more a sharp political story of factional muscle, backroom persuasion and tactical compromise inside the Congress. What looked like a straight contest with KPCC general secretary and AICC member Deepthi Mary Varghese widely seen as the frontrunner turned into a decisive show of strength by Opposition leader V D Satheesan on his home turf. The party turned to an internal opinion survey after multiple senior women leaders Minimol, Deepthi and Shiny Mathew emerged as contenders. Ironically, Shiny polled the highest support (22 councillors), with Minimol securing 17 votes. But numbers werent the clincher influence was. Satheesan, sources said, personally reached out to several councillors in the I group, directing them to rally behind Minimol, tipping the scales despite the arithmetic. Deepthi, aligned with K C Venugopals camp, struggled to consolidate backing, exposing the widening factional divide. With both camps still commanding significant strength, the party stitched together a power-sharing formula Minimol to lead in the first half of the term, Deepthi in the second. The other subplot played out quietly. Shiny Mathew, wary after the 2015 episode when Soumini Jain allegedly reneged on a verbal rotation pact, insisted on an agreement ensuring Minimol steps down after two-and-a-half years. The party obliged and announced term-sharing a telling reminder that in Kochis council politics, memories are long and trust is conditional. Minimols ascent backed by her record as a four-time councillor and two-time standing committee chairperson is being read within the party as a clear victory for Satheesan over Venugopal in a high-stakes local turf battle. The message from Kochi is unmistakable: factions may bargain, but clout decides who wears the mayoral chain.

IUML pushes hard for 30 seats in upcoming Kerala state assembly elections

MALAPPURAM: With the assembly elections approaching, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has mounted an aggressive pitch for a larger share of seats within the UDF, setting its sights on around 30 constituencies five more than the 25 the party contested in 2021. The Muslim Leagues renewed ambition is no longer confined to its traditional Malabar strongholds; it is now pressing for a strategic expansion into southern Kerala, signalling a decisive shift in its electoral calculus. At the core of IUMLs demand is its performance in the recent local body elections. Party leaders argue that improved seat and vote shares especially in southern districts have strengthened their bargaining position. The League is seeking winnable seats in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha, regions where its presence was once marginal but is now electorally relevant. We recorded an 80% winning rate in the local body polls and performed strongly in southern Kerala as well. Seeking more seats in the UDF is our right, said IUML state general secretary P M A Salam. He said seat-sharing talks are expected to conclude by January 15 and that the party anticipates a positive response when it places its demands before the UDF leadership. Stressing the party deserves more seats, a senior IUML leader said the party was promised 27 seats in 2021. However, due to last-minute adjustments within the UDF, we were able to contest only 25 seats, of which we won 15just six fewer than the Congress. In the 2025 LSG polls, we secured 3,203 seats, finishing third among parties in Kerala. Therefore, we deserve to contest at least 30 seats, the leader said. IUML smashes Malabar stereotype; tally 220 in southern local bodies league likely to strictly enforce three-term policy In the south, Kollam has emerged as a key testing ground for the party. Despite an ongoing rift with ally RSP, the IUML is eyeing Eravipuram, invoking the memory of its 1991 victory when senior leader P K K Bava defeated the RSP while it was part of the LDF, according to sources. They said the IUML no longer wishes to contest from Punalur, where it failed miserably for the last two terms. Salam, meanwhile, dismissed reports of a possible seat swap with the Congress involving Guruvayur. Some leaders aspiring to contest from Guruvayur, with the help of certain media, are creating such stories. We are not bothered about it, he said. However, internal party deliberations suggest a more intricate reshuffle is under way. IUML sources indicate a strong possibility that the party will contest from Pattambi, while firmly rejecting speculation that Muslim Youth League president K M Shaji could be fielded from Kasaragod. There is no chance Shaji will be considered from Kasaragod. He may be given Koduvally if M K Muneer opts to contest from Kozhikode South, a senior leader said. The party is also considering ceding Thiruvambady to the Congress to facilitate Malappuram DCC president V S Joys candidature, while pushing for Trinamool Congress leader P V Anvar as the UDF candidate in Beypore. The IUML is also expected to strictly enforce its three-term policy with few exceptions for the senior leaders potentially sidelining several sitting MLAs and opening the door for a generational shift. Youth League leaders such as P K Firoz, P M Sadiq Ali and P K Nawas are said to be in contention. Reflecting trends from the local body elections, the leadership is also weighing the option of fielding two or more women candidates. With prominent women Youth League leaders, including Najma Thabsheera and Fathima Thahiliya, already elected to local bodies, the Vanitha League may emerge as the primary beneficiary. The Congress, meanwhile, is signalling resistance. A senior Congress leader, said the IUMLs expectations may be scaled down. We expect the League to ask for 30 seats, but we can offer only 27 or 28 at most. Giving them more winnable seats in the south would mean sacrificing the seats currently held by sitting Congress MLAs. Their best chance is to secure two or three additional seats in Malabar, he said. Adding to the strain is IUMLs deep dissatisfaction over its representation in the governing bodies of local self-governments in southern Kerala. League leaders say they had anticipated at least 35 chairperson or vice-chairperson posts in the region, but not even half that number materialised. The party is particularly aggrieved over te Congresss refusal to concede deputy mayor posts in Kochi and Kollam, despite IUML support being crucial in several civic bodies.

Keralas NR bank deposits race past Rs 3 trillion

KOCHI: Keralas banking sector has raced past a historic landmark. For the first time, non-resident (NR) deposits in banks in the state crossed the Rs 3-trillion mark a symbolic threshold that underscores the states deep economic umbilical link with its global diaspora. As on September 30, 2025, NR deposits stood at Rs 3,03,464.57 crore, up from Rs 2,86,987.21 crore three months earlier an increase of Rs 16,476.79 crore, or 5.75%, in a single quarter. The rebound is particularly striking because the April-June quarter had seen a rare dip, when deposits slipped 2.31%, or Rs 6,634.92 crore the first decline in several quarters. The long-term trajectory, however, has been one of steady ascent. Kerala reached its first trillion in March 2015, before doubling it by March 2020. It took another five years to vault past Rs 3 trillion. At the heart of this surge lies a mix of sentiment, economics, and strategy, according to banking industry officials. A weaker rupee, attractive deposit rates, and renewed post-pandemic remittance momentum have strengthened inflows, they said. Historically, a weakening rupee relative to the USD has resulted in increased inflows into NRE accounts. This years inflows have followed this established trend, said Joy P V, EVP & country head - retail liability & fee products of Federal Bank. Weakening rupee may support remittance The bank, which leads Keralas NR deposit league table with Rs 85,250.08 crore, credits its performance to deep remittance linkages and trust built over decades. Federal Banks strong rupee drawing arrangement and wide global correspondent network make remittances easy for NRIs. With innovative and tailored savings products, competitive interest rates, and relationship-led banking, we have consistently earned customer trust. Along with favourable exchange rates, these have helped attract substantial inflows to NRI accounts, Joy said. Federal Bank on top If Federal Bank holds the crown for volume, Canara Bank has delivered the quarters biggest headline-grabbing leap. Its NR deposits more than doubled from Rs 10,935.71 crore to Rs 21,914.95 crore, an astonishing Rs 10,979-crore jump in just three months. No other bank in Keralas NR portfolio comes close to that kind of growth spurt this quarter a burst that bankers attribute to targeted mobilisation campaigns and aggressive rate positioning. The State Bank of India remains a strong second in the rankings, with Rs 80,234.07 crore in NR deposits as of September, reinforcing its formidable base among long-standing expatriate customers. Bankers agree that currency dynamics have played a decisive role. Over the past five years, the rupee has slid from around Rs 75.71 to about Rs 85.45 per dollar a depreciation that has made every dollar remitted to India stretch further. For many NRIs, the arithmetic is irresistible: stronger foreign earnings converted at weaker rupee levels, topped with tax-free interest on NRE and FCNR deposits. The weakening of the rupee increases the effective value of foreign currency remittances, making investments and deposits in India more attractive, said Biji S S, SGM & head branch banking, South Indian Bank. Attractive interest rates, favourable remittance rates, confidence in Indias long-term growth, and improved digital onboarding have all contributed to higher inflows. Biji believes the trend isnt a flash in the pan. A moderately weakening rupee is likely to support sustained NRI inflows in the near to medium term. NR deposits remain attractive because they offer higher risk-adjusted returns compared to many overseas markets, tax-free interest on NRE/FCNR deposits, full repatriability, and a robust, well-regulated banking system. The broader macro backdrop reinforces that optimism. Remittances to India have staged a strong revival post-Covid, and Kerala continues to rank among the countrys biggest recipients -- even as migration patterns diversify and newer corridors such as the US gain prominence alongside the Gulf. For now, Keralas Rs 3-trillion milestone isnt just a round number its a testament to the enduring economic power of its diaspora. NRI deposits in Kerala banks head towards Rs 3-trillion mark

New airlines that got green signal from Centre will struggle to offer competition, say experts

NEW DELHI: The sudden clearance to operate in Indian skies given to two airlines that had been awaiting the nod for nearly a year appears to be a strong message from the Centre in light of the disruption caused by Indias largest domestic carrier IndiGo from December 1 to 9. The two new airlines are Kozhikode-based Alhind and Hyderabad-headquartered FlyExpress, while Shank Air, based in Uttar Pradesh, was also given the nod last year and plans to begin operations in 2026. Aviation professionals and experts, however, unanimously feel there is no way the newbies can take on dominant players like IndiGo or the two airlines from the stable of the Air India Group Air India and Air India Express. Captain C S Randhawa, president of the Federation of Indian Pilots, is quite critical of the decision. Stating that the newbies can never break the duopoly exercised by the existing airlines, he added, All these three airlines have neither enough funding nor expertise. The best of airlines have not survived. No regional airlines have survived in this country. These airlines are not a threat to any operating airlines in the country as they cannot survive on non-UDAN routes. They face the challenges of finances, aircraft leasing, pilot availability, sustainability, competitive fares and reliability, he stated. The government needs to get fuel under GST and give subsidies to encourage big corporate houses to enter aviation with a big bang to break the monopoly or duopoly. Regional airlines only increase regional connectivity. There is an urgent need for the government to have a relook at the aviation policies of the country, Captain Randhawa explained. He also claimed that Alhind had shut its Kochi office and terminated all employees. Shank Air was still struggling to obtain certification for Air Operator Certification and get aircraft on lease, he added. Training the specific pilots to operate the ATR aircraft or smaller aircraft would take more than eight months. The average life of a regional airline is approximately 3-7 years. Therefore, such airlines starting up with 1 or 2 aircraft fail in prolonged operations and shut shop, he added. Aviation expert Captain Mohan Ranganathan gave zero chances of the new airlines offering any competition. Where are the captains? The title of a 1971 Robert Stirling novel 'Shell Never Get Off the Ground' is apt to describe their situation, he said. A representative of the other leading pilot association, Airline Pilot Association of India, told TNIE, Where are the big aircraft for these airlines to start their operations? IndiGo presently has 434 aircraft and it took them two decades to reach this position. The new airlines need to lease A320 aircraft only from them. Orders placed at Boeing by Air India for the 737s are getting delayed. It will take the new airlines at least two decades to reach the position of these airlines. Spicejet and Akasa Air have been around for some time but they have between 20 and 30 aircraft each and cannot match up to the airlines yet, he added. Captain G R Gopinath, who pioneered the low-cost airline concept in the country through his Air Deccan, said, Permitting new airlines to operate is good for the country as the industry will become more vibrant. The public stand to benefit as the prices will be kept under check. Airlines will become more effective and service-minded. It is good that the government is doing it and it will benefit all. In an earlier interaction with TNIE in Kerala, Alhind CEO Reena Abdul Rahiman said the Thiruvananthapuram-Kochi-Kozhikode sector was their priority. To facilitate this, the company had started a base in Kochi airport as early as August 2024. Alhind Air will begin its operations with two ATR 72-600 aircraft, with plans to scale up to seven within the first year. Alhind Air is also mulling operating in certain routes under the UDAN scheme like Kochi-Mysuru, the airlines operations manager T C Vivek had informed TNIE. Alhind Group, with a turnover of over Rs 20,000 crore and more than 130 offices in India and overseas, is headquartered in Kozhikode and has a regional office in Delhi. This reporter repeatedly tried reaching the offices of Alhind and Shank Air but got no response.

UP man on the run after alleged highway robbery held from Kochi

New Mayor V.K. Minimol vows crackdown on corruption, focus on mobility

The new Mayor of the Kochi Corporation outlines her priorities and vision for the city, which she says are aligned with the broader agenda of the UDF and will be reflected in the maiden budget to be presented by the new governing committee in the coming months.

Kochi Mayor was chosen strictly in accordance with KPCC guidelines, says Satheesan

The UDF had announced mayoral candidates in advance only in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, says Satheesan

Kochi Muziris Biennale: How the Indian art world sees it

The countrys top gallerists, collectors and curators weigh in on what the Kochi Biennale means to them

New Mayors Elected in Kerala

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.

Four-time councillor V.K. Minimol elected as Kochi Mayor

Projects commissioned, India set to overtake US in metro network length

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Railways has claimed that India is on course to overtake the United States in total metro network length as ongoing projects are commissioned. Metro and suburban rail networks are currently operational across 1,090 km in 26 cities, including both major metros and Tier-2 cities, making urban mobility faster and more economically affordable for low- and middle-income groups. The Ministry further stated that despite the rapid expansion of metro and suburban rail services, no fare hike has been implemented so far by the government, reflecting its concern for low- and middle-class commuters. Speaking to this newspaper on Wednesday, an official at the Ministry said that Indias metro network has grown exponentially from just 248 km across five cities in 2014 to 1,090 km in 2025, spanning 26 cities- both metro and Tier-2. This represents a remarkable 340% growth over the past decade. He said that metro expansion has taken place not only in major cities but also in Tier-2 cities such as Bhopal, Indore, Kanpur, Nagpur, Pune, Surat, Agra, Lucknow, Jaipur and Kochi. He added that metro services were operational over just 27 km in 2002, which increased to 50 km in 2004, 101 km in 2009, 249 km in 2014, 647 km in 2019, 945 km in 2024 and 1,090 km in 2025. According to the official, the commissioning of metro lines has increased nine times compared to pre-2014 rates, with the aim of accelerating urban transport infrastructure under the NDA government. Highlighting the work done on metro and suburban rail services during the current NDA government, the official said that urban mobility has been made affordable and efficient, with metro travel costing 5060% less per passenger-km than private vehicles. He said this has significantly reduced daily commuting costs and eased traffic congestion on roads. Citing figures, the official further added that affordable fare slabs, typically ranging between Rs 20 and Rs 60 at launch in cities such as Bhopal, demonstrate accessibility for low- and middle-income commuters. He further stated that average daily metro ridership across the country now stands at around 1.15 crore, which is four times higher than the 28 lakh daily ridership recorded in 2014.

Mob lynching: Kerala govt announces Rs 30 lakh aid to victims family

KOCHI, Dec 24 : Kerala government on Wednesday announced financial assistance of Rs 30 lakh to the family of Chhattisgarh native Ramnarayan, who was killed in an alleged mob lynching incident near Walayar in the northern Palakkad district. Addressing a press conference here, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said a Cabinet meeting decided to grant the aid to the family of Ramnarayan, from the Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund. Of the total Rs 30 lakh being granted, Rs five lakh each [] The post Mob lynching: Kerala govt announces Rs 30 lakh aid to victims family appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

London-Based Odia Diaspora Sweta Mohanty and ParthaSarathi Panda Champion Modi 3.0 Art Exhibition

KOCHI, Dec 24 : A remarkable exhibition titled Modi 3.0 was inaugurated last evening at the Nehru Centre in Londonoften regarded as one of the worlds leading hubs for artfeaturing works by talented artists who travelled from India specifically to showcase their creations. The title itself reflects the inspiration behind the exhibition, as the artists collectively captured the prevailing sentiment of India and Indians across the worldone defined by confidence, optimism, and pride in the nations progress. Through diverse styles [] The post London-Based Odia Diaspora Sweta Mohanty and ParthaSarathi Panda Champion Modi 3.0 Art Exhibition appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

DDMA temporarily shuts 12 shops at Mather Bazaar in Kochi for flouting safety norms

Big Tree Fest adds glow to Fort Kochi's year-end verve

Time slows down in Fort Kochi every December. There is always something special about the Christmas - New Year season in this nook of the world. Its not just about the old-world charm and colonial hangover the place is known for. The special vibe comes from the communitys warmth and camaraderie. And at the centre of this stands a 400-year-old rain tree at Veli Ground. Gathering around this tree during festivities has been an age-old tradition. Over time, however, this tradition has evolved into whats called the Big Tree Festival. A celebration rooted in memories of the neighbourhood. Held annually from December 23 to January 1, the festival has grown into one of Fort Kochis most anticipated year end events, drawing thousands of people. Its beginnings, however, were modest. As they say, Christmas in Fort Kochi is not assembled overnight. In 1999, a group of teenagers who spent most evenings playing cricket at the ground wondered why their neighbourhood did not have a communal Christmas tree. That casual chit-chat after a match spurred the idea of a community-led celebration. Those teenagers united by sports evolved into a collective identity when three local clubs Sparks, Eagles and Sharjah came together to form SES Kochi, which was later renamed Knights United. For the past 25 years, the group has been organising the Big Tree Festival. Members of the group say they view the tree as a local matriarch. We protect and care for the tree throughout the year, says Swaraj T R, secretary of Knights United. Several other trees in the area have fallen due to neglect. But this one remains firmly rooted. The initial concept of the tree fest was to have a homely gathering of residents, says Sanoj P S, president of Knights United. People would get together and share their food and joy of Christmas until the New Year, he recalls. The scene, however, changed with social media. Now domestic and foreign tourists throng the tree festival. As part of this years celebration, the tree is now adorned with claybells, ball string lights, about 1,800 LED strips, and a 40kg neon star. The festival experience extends beyond the tree. A 350m stretch of road leading to the Veli Ground is lined with arches, stars and festive hangings, turning the approach itself into part of the celebration. We must thank Nixon Jose Antony a brother to the group whose encouragement during the early years helped us sustain the effort. He is now a police officer, but continues to guide in spirit, says Sanoj. The festival has no business motives, he adds. Members of Knights United including daily wagers do the decorations by taking leave from their jobs. We dont have any big title sponsors or funders. Its a typical middle-class festival for middle-class people. The lights on ceremony will be held on Christmas day, with actor Soubin Shahir, and local socio-political figures expected to be in attendance. Cultural programmes will be held on a daily basis, culminating in New Year celebrations on January 1. The organisers urge visitors to park vehicles at least 100m away from the venue to avoid congestion in the neighbourhood.

Kochi mayor row: Congress leaders express differing opinions

While K.C. Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala urge party members to respect the decision-making process, others such as Ajay Tharayil and Mathew Kuzhalnadan voice concerns about exclusion of two-time councillor Deepthi Mary Varghese

Internal dissent within Congress over selection of Kochi mayor candidate intensifies

KPCC general secretary and two-time councillor Deepthi Mary Varghese alleges selection process discrepancies

Septuagenarian scripts history, wins powerlifting gold at Asian tourney

KOCHI: In a performance that defied his age, K K Velayudhan has scripted history by winning gold at the Asian Masters Classic Powerlifting Championship held in Istanbul, Turkey. The 71-year-old, who hails from Muttikulangara in Palakkad, won the precious metal in the 59kg category at the championship, which took place from December 1 to 10. It is indeed very special to win. Its been a dream I harboured for a long time. Im thrilled to have finally achieved it, Velayudhan told TNIE. With the gold-winning performance, he also bagged the Best Lifter title, much to the astonishment of many in the audience. To win this rare title, one has to get at least two of three lifts in each of the three categories perfect. Velayudhan sir did that effortlessly, said Afsal Fakrudeen, part of his support staff. Yet another distinction is the fact that this title was won across three Master categories i.e. age 41 and upwards. It is no small feat, Afsal stressed. Indeed, the win has drawn attention from both within and outside the Indian sporting community, particularly at the masters level. A former weightlifter from the 1980s, it was only three years ago that the septuagenarian started rigorous practice. I had to take a break of nearly four decades to take care of my family, my children. My priority until now was my wife, my three daughters, and their futures. So my ambitions in sports had to take a backseat, he recalled.w Now, he is preparing for the World Powerlifting Championship to be held in the UAE in June 2026. I became a sportsperson in my 20s. Now, in my 70s, I want to remain a sportsperson. My journey goes forward, and as do my ambitions, Velayudhan said.

New UDF associates Anvar & Janu meet Satheesan, praise leadership

KOCHI: Letting bygones be bygones, past fire-breathing accusations melted into broad smiles on Tuesday, as Opposition Leader V D Satheesan and All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) leader P V Anvar publicly reaffirmed their political camaraderie, by draping each other in tricolour shawls. Underscoring the strength of new associate members joining the UDF fold, the event was attended by Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha (JRS) leader C K Janu. Satheesan ceremonially presented shawls to Janu also, and to the new mayor-designate and introduced the Kochi Corporations new leadership to the alliances associate party leaders. Speaking to reporters at the Government Guest House in Kochi after the meeting, both Anvar and Janu praised the UDF and its leadership, and assured that they would stand firmly with the alliance. I am here to meet the Opposition leader, and it was important for me to express our gratitude. I am in a fight against Pinarayism, and I will continue with that. The question of contesting seats does not arise now. The UDF leadership will decide whether I should contest or not, said Anvar. He added that even if the UDF asks him to take part in the election campaign across all 140 constituencies, he would do so wholeheartedly. Janu said the UDF is the only political front that embraces all sections of society and functions in a truly democratic manner. Within the UDF, there is democratic decency and a space where every voice is heard. Over the past nine years, we received neither consideration nor a hearing within the NDA alliance, she said. She stated that the scars of the Muthanga incident have never faded and that she speaks about it wherever she goes. Yet, the UDF is the only alliance capable of politically uplifting communities that are treated as backward, Janu added.

For these women of the cloth, creativity is cloak of visibility

KOCHI: Creativity and faith are both a calling that can come together in the artistic process. Nuns who embody this union may be considered rather rare to come by. But, then, there are those in the habit of overturning popular perception. Sr Lismys journey as a cinematographer began in the silence of her Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC) convent. It was a chance encounter with a simple camera that stirred to life an interest. My superiors at the CMC Nirmala Province in Thrissur supported my desire to pursue academic training in media: a bachelors and masters in journalism and mass communication, and a diploma in cinematography and editing, says Sr Lismy, who took her vows in 2007. She began by shooting music videos for religious retreats. It later evolved into a full-fledged ministry. Now, I work as a freelance filmmaker and also manage a digital recording studio that produces Christian devotional music, documentaries, short films, and inspirational reels, she adds. Over the years, Sr Lismy has directed nearly 300 music videos, 35 documentaries, numerous short films, and reels. My first music video was born during a retreat. The moment lit a fire in me, not just creatively but spiritually, she says. Listing the projects close to her heart, Sr Lismy says Nanmayude Sugandham (The Fragrance of Virtue) tells the story of individuals who endure profound suffering, yet live with hope and dignity. Another work, Pidakkozhi (The Hen), a true story of redemption, received the 2024 Phoenix Film Award. These are not just productions; they are encounters with grace, she points out. Today, her content reaches global audiences through platforms such as Nirmala Media TSR and Camera Nun YouTube channels, the Sr Lismy CMC Instagram and Facebook profiles, and several other collaborative YouTube channels. Together, these platforms have had over 7.78 million views. According to Sr Lismy, cinematography may seem unconventional for a nun. But I believe that art, when guided by faith, becomes a ministry, she adds. She began with a small Sony camera, with the outdoors her studio. Now she operates from her recording space, Nirmala Media Digital Recording Studio. For Sr Roswin CMC, being a nun made it possible to find the artist in her. The habit gave me the freedom to express my art. My life as a religious person instilled in me discipline through prayer and meditation. And this, in turn, helped me refine my artistic expression, says the member of the Mary Matha Provincial House, in Vengoor, Ernakulam. For Sr Roswin aka Sr Malu Joy art runs in her blood. Watching her father paint and create magic by designing gardens got her hooked from childhood. She joined the convent after completing SSLC. It was here that Sr Roswins destiny as an artist began to take shape. During Covid, I painted biblical scenes and lettering on the convent walls. Impressed with my work, the mother superior got me admitted to RLV College Tripunithura, where I was able to hone my skills, recounts Sr Roswin. And now her creations rub shoulders with those of artists from all over the world at the sixth edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. She is the first nun to be part of the event. Sr Roswin draws inspiration from the elderly nuns and visitors at the convent. My works dont idealise. I try to render my subjects as imperfect, fragile humans, who bear the marks of labour, time and resilience, she adds. From using waste paper as a canvas and the sidewalk as an exhibition venue during her student years, to expanding the contours of her drawings with notations gleaned from conversations with her subjects, Sr Roswin has come a long way.

Congress picks V.K. Minimol, Shiny Mathew for split mayoral term in Kochi Corpn.

Sabarimala gold theft row: New doubts rise as jeweller claims he donated gold plate door in 2019

KOCHI: At a time when former presidents of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) are facing a probe into the alleged disappearance of gold from the Sabarimala temple, Govardhan, a jeweller from Ballari arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), has claimed that the newly gold-plated door frame was donated by him in June 2019. He stated that he donated 184g of gold, valued approximately at Rs 9 lakh. UB Group chairman Vijay Mallya had sponsored the gold cladding of the temple, including the roof, pillars, inscriptions, dwarapalakas, and doors,in 1999. The disclosures made in Govardhans bail plea, filed before the High Court on Monday, have added to suspicions that the original doors and frames were replaced with gold-plated frames in 2019. According to Govardhan, the door frame was handed over to Unnikrishnan Potti to be taken to Sabarimala. He later returned to Ballari and subsequently visited Sabarimala to attend the poojas and the assembly of the door frame. The bail plea also stated that there was no pecuniary loss to the TDB, as the entire gold obtained from Smart Creations was returned in full to the Board in 2019. Despite this, when the SIT visited his shop and residence in Ballari on October 24, they forcefully seized 474.970g of 24-carat imported gold, valued at Rs 59,40,449.79. Govardhan further claimed that a total of Rs 1.40 crore was spent by him on poojas, offerings, donations, and the gold seized by the SIT. The bail petition was filed through senior advocate P Vijayabhanu and advocate Thomas J Anakkallunkal. According to the petition, Govardhan became acquainted with Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused in the case, in 2007. Subsequently, at Pottis instance, he made several donations to Sabarimala. By the end of 2018, Potti informed him that the Sreekovil main door was proposed to be replaced and asked whether he would like to sponsor it. Considering it a rare honour and privilege, Govardhan agreed. The gold-plating work was carried out at Smart Creations, Ambattur Industrial Estate, Chennai. He stated that he incurred approximately Rs 35 lakh towards the entire project, including procurement, labour, and transportation. Govardhan further submitted that after the completion of the dwarapalaka work in September 2019, he was informed by Pankaj, managing director of Smart Creations, or by Unnikrishnan Potti, that 474.97g of gold extracted from the cladding remained at Smart Creations. He then arranged to collect the gold through Kalpesh, an employee of Shenky, owner of Shri Kalikund Jewellers, Chennai, who handed over the gold to him in Ballari. At the relevant time, gold was valued at about Rs 14,97,288, calculated at approximatelyRs 3,120 per gram for 22-carat gold. As directed by Unnikrishnan Potti, the amount was remitted through demand drafts in favour of the executive officer, Sabarimala, Sree Dharmasastha Annadhana Trust. The court will hear the bail plea on Tuesday, December 23.

Forensic examination clears actor Shine Tom Chacko of drug use charges

KOCHI: The forensic report in the narcotics case against actor Shine Tom Chacko, that came out on Sunday, has revealed that the forensic examination failed to establish the actors drug consumption. Following the report, the police are likely to drop further proceedings in the case registered at the Ernakulam Town North police station. The case related to the summoning, interrogation, subsequent arrest and bail of the actor, following allegations that Shine and a friend had consumed narcotics in a hotel room near the Town Hall Metro Station on April 17, 2025. The incident sparked controversy after Shine was seen fleeing the hotel room during a DANSAF inspection upon noticing police personnel. We were waiting for the forensic science laboratory report of the actor and co-suspect Ahmed Murshad, 25, to confirm drug consumption before proceeding further with the case, said police. Adding further, K A Abdul Salam, narcotic ACP with Kochi city, said the actor was never arrested in the case and that they were awaiting the FSL report. The actor was booked under bailable sections and only an investigation was initiated. No coercive action was taken, nor was he arrested. As per law, the investigating officer has the authority to issue a notice and summon a person, and that is exactly what was done in this case, said Salam.

In a little-known Ernakulam shrine rests relic of the real-life Santa

KOCHI: As the Yuletide spirit fills the air, posters, cutouts and dolls of Santa Claus crop up everywhere, heralding the season of love and sharing. However, not many may know that Santa, the most popular symbol of Christmas, is inspired from and modelled after St Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop from Myra in ancient Turkey known for his generosity and secret gift-giving. Some may find it hard to believe that the real-life Santa has a Kerala connection. For more than a century, Pampakuda, a sleepy village located 35 km away from Ernakulam, has been home to a relic of St Nicholas. Barring residents, not many are aware the modest wayside shrine at Pampakuda in front of St Johns Ephesus Orthodox Church is home to six priceless relics, one of which is a fragment of the remains of St Nicholas. The other sacred relics, all kept in metal reliquaries inside a wooden case at the shrine, are stone fragments from the Milk Grotto Chapel in Bethlehem where the Blessed Virgin is believed to have breastfed the Child Jesus, a glossopetrae (a fossil) fragment related to St Paul the Apostle, and relics of St Kuriakose, a fourth-century child martyr, St George, a third-century martyr, and St Shmuel, the founder of Qartmin Monastery in Turkey. It was another saint who brought the remains to this village in the 1890s, said Fr Johns Abraham Konat, the vicar of St Johns Church and principal secretary to Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the head of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. St Geevarghese Mar Gregorios aka Parumala Thirumeni brought the relics to Pampakuda after visiting the Holy Land in 1895, he said. The reliquary containing the relic | Express Hardly anyone knows about the relics outside the hamlet He wished to gift them to his tutor, Konat Geevarghese Malpan, said Fr Konat. Upon knowing his beloved guru had passed away while he was overseas, Saint Gregorios gifted the relics to Fr Konat Mathen, who was the Malpan (teacher) then. My grandfather, Konat Mathen Malpan, was instrumental in enshrining the relics near the wayside cross. said Fr Konat whose family had several illustrious Syriac scholars. Fr Konat explained that the relics were gifted to St Gregorios by the Metropolitan of Jerusalem when he visited the historic Church of St Mark. Though St Nicholas, who is known as Mor Zokhe in Syriac Orthodox tradition, remains pretty much obscure among Malankara Orthodox believers, the Church liturgically commemorates him on December 6. The shrine is frequented by believers, including non-Christians, who seek the intercession of St Nicholas and the other saints. However, outside the hamlet, hardly anyone knows about the relics, he said. Today, the bulk of the relics of St Nicholas rests in Bari in Italy, though fragments of his bones are kept in churches across Europe. During Reformation, devotion to St Nicholas waned in Protestant countries except in the Netherlands, where his legends lingered. When Dutch colonists migrated to the American colonies in the 17th century, they took with them stories of Sinterklaas, a Dutch variant of St Nicholas, and thus arose the figure of Santa Claus.

Actor Chacko gets clean chit in drugs case

Kochi police have dropped drug charges against actor Shine Tom Chacko and a co-accused after forensic reports confirmed no narcotic substances were found. The case, which gained attention in April following a hotel raid where the actor allegedly jumped into a pool to evade police, has now concluded with clean chits for both individuals.

Congress core committee yet to reach consensus on mayoral candidate in Kochi Corporation

The core committee comprises of UDF chairman Dominic Presentation, District Congress Committee president Mohammed Shiyas, and senior leader N. Venugopal

Two tanks within Kochi Corporation limits need urgent intervention, says KWA

The assessment was done in the wake of the recent incident at Thammanam, where a 1.35-crore-litre water tank burst, leading to water supply disruption and causing significant damage to nearby properties

UDF strengthens Assembly poll push; inducts C K Janu, P V Anvar as associate members

KOCHI: Buoyed by its decisive local body election victory, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has moved swiftly to widen its political base, inducting P V Anvars Trinamool Congress and C K Janus Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha as associate members . The decision was taken at a high-level UDF leadership meeting held in Kochi on Monday, signalling an early and aggressive build-up to the Assembly elections. Along with Anvar and Janu, Vishnupuram Chandrasekharan of Kamraj Congress was also granted associate membership. Leader of the Opposition and UDF chairman V D Satheeshan said the induction was aimed at consolidating the UDFs presence in specific regions where the new entrants have a strong grassroots base. Kerala local body poll results: Polarisation helped UDF surge, says Congress core panel These parties approached us seeking to work with the UDF. Tinfluence in particular areas and communities. As associate members, they will strengthen the UDF in the upcoming Assembly elections, Satheeshan said, making it clear that the move was strategic rather than symbolic. Both Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, led by C K Janu, and Vishnupuram Chandrasekharans Kamraj Congress were earlier part of the NDA. However, the UDF leadership underlined that associate membership does not amount to permanent induction into the Front. Satheeshan also sought to put to rest speculation about wider realignments, including a possible return of Kerala Congress (M). We have not authorised anyone to hold talks with parties that left the UDF earlier. That said, our doors are not closed. Anyone willing to work with the UDF and accept its politics can approach us, he said, adding that many former Left supporters were already gravitating towards the UDF, disillusioned with what he described as the LDFs rightward drift. The meeting was attended by key constituents of the front, including IUML leaders P K Kunhalikutty and P M A Salam, Kerala Congress (Joseph) chairman P J Joseph, RSP leaders Shibu Baby John and N K Premachandran, CMP leader C P John, KPCC president Sunny Joseph, former KPCC president K Sudhakaran, and UDF convenor Adoor Prakash. UDF begins Assembly election preparations. With the organisational expansion in place, the UDF has formally kicked off its Assembly election preparations. Satheeshan said the front is targeting at least 100 seats, with seat-sharing talks to be completed by January 15. A major rally under his leadership is planned for the first week of February to unveil the UDF manifesto, which is being drafted with inputs from sectoral experts. The CPM has neither accepted its local body defeat nor corrected its course. That only strengthens our case, Satheeshan said, striking a confident note as the UDF shifts decisively into election mode. Anti-govt sentiments aided UDF, led to drop in NDA vote share, feels BJP

P Poulose, member of Keralas historic 1973 Santosh Trophy side, no more

KOCHI: P Poulose, a member of the Kerala football team that lifted the Santosh Trophy for the first time in 1973, passed away on Monday. He was 76. A native of Aluva, Poulose was the youngest member of the title-winning 26-man squad. They beat Railways 3-2 in the final held at the Maharajas College grounds in Kochi on December 27, 1973. Pouloses football journey began at St Marys High School, Aluva, where his early promise earned him a place in the Kerala junior team. Later, he represented Calicut University, playing a key role in its national inter-university championship triumph in the 1971-72 season. A left-wing-back player, Poulose went on to represent Kerala in the Santosh Trophy for eight years and captained the side in 1979. At the club level, he played for Kerala Premier Tyres. Even after hanging up his boots, Poulose remained deeply involved with the game. He served in an administrative capacity for nearly four decades as secretary of the Ernakulam District Football Association for 12 years and, later, as senior vice-president of the Kerala Football Association. In 1993, he returned to the Santosh Trophy arena as assistant manager of the Kerala team. This campaign once again ended with the trophy coming home. Poulose is the 13th member of the TKS Mani-led 1973 title-winning squad to pass away. With this, another link to Kerala football's golden chapter is lost.

Forensic report clears actor Shine Tom Chacko of drug use charges

The drug case was registered after Shine Tom Chacko created quite a stir by fleeing a hotel in Kochi during a raid conducted by District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force in April

Kerala High Court sets aside Sabarimala airport land acquisition

KOCHI/PATHANAMTHITTA : The Kerala High Court has nullified key stages of the land acquisition process for the proposed Sabarimala greenfield airport, ruling that the state government failed to determine the minimum extent of land required for the project as mandated by law, and directed the authorities to restart the process after a fresh assessment. On December 30, 2022, the state government issued an order granting sanction for the acquisition of 2,570 acres of land, comprising the Cheruvally Estate and an additional 307 acres located outside it. Justice C Jayachandran, delivering the judgment on a writ petition filed by Ayana Charitable Trust (formerly Gospel for Asia) and its managing trustee Dr Siny Punnoose, ruled the decision-making process under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, was legally flawed. Questioning the land acquisition of 2,570 acres of land, the court also noted that even for the highest type of aircraft, in an airport contemplating IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations, the land required in the ideal scenario is 1200 acres. On the petitioners allegation of fraud on power and colourable exercise of authority, the court did not give a final finding. It held that this issue is closely linked to determining the minimum land required and can only be examined after that exercise is properly completed. It is not ripe for this Court to conclude that the acquisition proceedings are vitiated by fraud on power, the order read. Social impact assessment report and govt order declared invalid by court The court, in its December 19 order, directed the state to restart the process by conducting a fresh social impact assessment (SIA) limited to examining the minimum land requirement, followed by a fresh appraisal by the expert group and reconsideration by the government. The petitioners had challenged several government actions, including the SIA report, the expert committee appraisal, the state government order approving the acquisition, and the subsequent notification under Section 11 of the 2013 Act. The land in question, mainly the Cheruvally Estate in Pathanamthitta district, is proposed to be acquired for building a new airport intended to serve Sabarimala pilgrims. The court found that while the state is entitled to acquire land for public purposes, the law clearly mandates that only the absolute bare minimum extent of land required for a project can be acquired. According to the court, this mandatory requirement under Sections 4(4)(d), 7(5)(b), and 8(1)(c) of the 2013 Act was not properly complied with. Justice Jayachandran observed that the authorities had shown manifest non-application of mind in assessing how much land was genuinely necessary. As a result, the SIA report, the expert committee report and the government order were declared invalid to the extent they failed to address this crucial requirement. Since the Section 11 notification could only be issued after a valid completion of these steps, it too was quashed. Before concluding, the court suggested that for technically complex projects like airports, the state should include technical experts in the SIA team to ensure informed and lawful decision-making. The writ petition was accordingly allowed, keeping other issues raised by the petitioners open for future consideration.

Amid mourning and recollections, Sreenivasan committed to memory

KOCHI: Sreenivasan s residence in Kandanad, near Tripunithura, swarmed with mourners from Sunday morning as people from the movie industry and fans gathered in their thousands to pay their last respects to the veteran actor and writer who passed away on Saturday. Among those who paid tributes was Tamil actor Suriya, who travelled from Chennai to visit the family. I am a fan of Sreeni sir. I have followed his work, his writings, and his contributions. I pray for his soul, Suriya told reporters. Actor Jagadish, who had worked with Sreenivasan on several films, recalled Sreenivasan writing the script to his second film, Odaruthammava Aalariyam. That is when our friendship began. For me, he was a friend, brother, and mentor. Sreeni is a writer who raised the standards of humour inMalayalam cinema, he said after paying last respects. There were emotional scenes when the body was taken to the pyre, as family members, friends and co-artists broke into tears. Following prayers and rituals, filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad, a close friend and collaborator, placed a pen and paper on Sreenivasans body to mark his contributions as a writer. The last rites were performed with a police guard of honour around noon on the premises of the family residence. One of the most influential writers in Malayalam cinema, Sreenivasan had been suffering from health issues for several years. He was being taken for dialysis to a private hospital in Kochi when his condition worsened. The 69-year-old was immediately moved to the Tripunithura Taluk Hospital, where he breathed his last. Director Sathyan Anthikad consoles Dhyan Sreenivasan who broke down during the funeral service of his father Prominent movie personalities including Prithviraj, Mukesh, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Renji Panicker and Rajasenan, political leaders M V Govindan, V D Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala paid their last respects. At a commemorative meeting held later in the day, minister P Prasad, Sathyan Anthikad, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswom, actor-politician Mukesh, and representatives of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) remembered Sreenivasans legacy. Suriya pays tribute Among those who paid tributes was Tamil actor Suriya, who travelled from Chennai to visit the family. I am a fan of Sreeni sir. I have followed his work, his writings, and his contributions. I pray for his soul, Suriya told reporters

Cashing in! UPI transactions soar as Keralas digital aspirations take flight

KOCHI: Its a digi-tell all! In a clear pivot from cash, Kerala is increasingly taking to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) figures reveal that 444.9 million UPI transactions were processed in the state in November, marking a 29.6% year-on-year increase. The value of these transactions rose 28.6% to `59,793 crore. Per capita usage climbed to 12.7 transactions a month, up from 9.8 a year earlier, indicating not just wider adoption but also more frequent use. Over the past three years, rising merchant acceptance, expanding smartphone penetration and a sustained, state-supported push towards cashless behaviour have together reshaped everyday money interactions in Kerala. The states performance mirrors a broader national surge. An NPCI-Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report released at the Global Fintech Festival 2025 highlights the scale of UPIs expansion across India. As of August, the country had 504 million unique UPI users nearly half of the adult population and close to 65 million merchants accepting UPI payments. UPI now accounts for 84% of all digital retail payments, with monthly transaction run rates 34% higher than a year ago. Within this nationwide expansion, Kerala contributes around 4% of Indias total UPI transaction volumes, placing it between ninth and eleventh nationally, depending on the month. Larger states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu continue to dominate the top tier with double-digit share of the pie. In several pockets, UPI is already the default mode. In others, adoption is rising sharply, said Indraneel Ajitkumar Pandit, executive vice-president and chief digital officer, Federal Bank. Kerala stands out for its exceptional engagement among senior citizens, with digital literacy among the elderly reaching near-universal levels through systematic campaigns, he added. UPI-first state ESAF Small Finance Bank executive director George K John described Kerala as a true UPI-first state, citing women-led digital participation through Kudumbashree networks, senior-citizen digital literacy initiatives and near-universal merchant QR code adoption as defining features. In urban centres such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur, UPI penetration is close to universal, especially for small-ticket payments across retail, transport, healthcare, hospitality and education. Merchant acceptance is extremely high, with even micro-merchants routinely using QR codes, he pointed out. According to Madhavankutty G, chief economist, Canara Bank, Keralas broader socio-economic profile also plays a role. It is a state with a high degree of consumerism. Banking penetration is very high, implying the number of bank accounts per capita is well above the national average, he said. High levels of urbanisation and internet penetration further support digital payments, while the large migrant workforce using UPI to send money to home states adds to transaction volumes, he added. Indraneel also pointed to the growing link between digital payments and credit growth. Studies show that business loan growth has a strong correlation with UPI adoption. Districts recording over 100% UPI growth reported a 4.2 times higher CAGR in business loans, he said. EMI collections and debt repayments through UPI have doubled over the past two years, underlining the rise of high-value and recurring transactions on the platform.

Bansuri workshop in Kochi from December 23

Kerala HC sets aside Sabarimala airport land acquisition process

Kochi: The Kerala High Court has set aside crucial stages of the land acquisition process for the proposed Sabarimala greenfield airport, holding that the state failed to properly assess the minimum land actually required for the project. On December 30, 2022, the state government issued an order granting sanction for the acquisition of 2,570 acres 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 .

Kochi-Kottayam NH corridor: NHAI directed to study feasiblility

KOCHI: In a significant move towards modernising Keralas road infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to evaluate a proposed National Highway corridor connecting Kottayam and Kochi, with a strategic link to the upcoming Angamaly-Kundannoor bypass. The decision follows a draft report earlier submitted by Kottayam MP Adv K Francis George, highlighting the urgent need for a high-speed alternative to the heavily congested existing routes. The minister promised that the NHAI will conduct a feasibility study for the proposed corridor. To minimise environmental impact and social displacement, the proposal emphasises elevated corridors over agricultural zones (paddy fields) to protect natural water flow and farming. Gadkari told me that a direction to this effect has been handed over to the NHAI, Francis told TNIE . The draft proposal outlines a 60-km greenfield spur road designed to alleviate the massive traffic volume between Kottayam and Kochi, which currently exceeds 90,000 Passenger Car Units (PCUs) daily. The starting point of the corridor is planned at Mulankuzha near Kottayam on NH 183. The route will pass through the tourism and agricultural hubs of Kumarakom and Vaikom. It will reach Tripunithura, where it is slated to connect with the Angamaly-Kundannoor bypass. By linking directly to the Angamaly-Kundannoor bypass, the corridor will effectively provide a high-speed connection from central Travancore to the Cochin International Airport and the northern stretches of NH 544. Currently, the journey from Kottayam to Tripunithura via traditional routes takes approximately 2.5 hours during peak times. The new corridor is expected to slash this travel time to just one hour.

At 72, this Karnataka woman is racing against her age

SHIVAMOGGA: Age is just a number for B Manjamma, a 72-year-old athlete from Shivamogga. She won a gold medal in the 400m run at the 23rd Asian Masters Athletics Championship in Chennai recently. She is a perfect example of the adage, Talent never fails or has an expiry date. She has won 110 medals in all, at the state, national and international level after taking to athletics just seven years ago. Manjamma retired as lady health visitor (LHV) and in-charge nursing officer at the district health officers office in 2013 after 36 years of service. Her husband HT Devaraj, who was from Kodagu and worked at the Karnataka Handloom and Woolen Society, passed away in 2013. The loss pushed her into a deep depression. Trying to pull herself out of the dark mental hole, she started jogging in 2018 when she was 65. Since then, she has been taking part in district, state, national and international events. My 27-year-old daughter Varshini Das, a doctor in Bengaluru, is behind my achievements. She has been supporting and motivating me all these years. I also have friends supporting me and appreciating my sportsman spirit even at the age of 72. Sports associations of Mysuru and Mangaluru motivate me by inviting me to their events, she told TNSE. Sports and games improve physical and mental health. They help people, especially the elderly, to be active and attentive. Yoga, walking, meditation and sports are all essential part of this, she said. She bagged the first prize in shot put at an athletics meet in 2018 for the first time. This prompted me to continue my sports journey, she added. There is no age limit to explore your talents and skills. One must gain confidence, which will help achieve greater things. Nothing is impossible, she said. Apart from the district-level track and field events, Manjamma represented the state in Nasik, Hyderabad, Goa, Pune and Kochi. She also attended international events in Brunei, Sri Lanka Master Athletics International, South Asia Tournament in Mangaluru and South India Tournament in Udupi. Keeping herself sprightly even at this age, she had a message for the younger generation, Youngsters should keep their body and mind active. They should avoid sleeping late and eating junk food, adopt a healthy lifestyle and keep obesity at bay. They should jog, walk, meditate, practice yoga and play games to keep themselves fit. Such activities help them concentrate on academics too. This ever-enthusiastic late bloomer said, Earlier, I used to participate only in 100m and 200m races. But now, I take part in shot put, discus throw, 1 km walk, 60m race and javelin throw.

O special one! Hundreds pay tribute to Sreenivasan

KOCHI: Malayalam film industry came together on Saturday to pay rich tributes to actor, screenwriter, and director Sreenivasan, whose satirical films reshaped popular cinema. Fans, film lovers, artists and filmmakers gathered in their hundreds at the Town Hall in Kochi -- where his body was kept for public homage from 1 pm -- to pay their last respects to the actor-screenwriter whose films made generations laugh. The ceremony, which was scheduled to conclude by 3 pm, was extended to 3.30 pm. After visiting the grieving family at their residence in Udayamperoor, near Tripunithura, actor Mammootty came to see his friend for one final time. For Mohanlal, the loss was huge, for Dasans Vijayan had left. Though it was a painful moment, Mohanlal consoled Mammootty on his arrival.For more than an hour, the big Ms of the Malayalam film industry sat beside the departed artist, their Sreeni. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian and Minister for Industries P Rajeeve offered respects on behalf of the state government. At one corner, two childhood friends, Azeez and Rafeeq, were discussing Sreenivasans films. I watch Sandesam, Thalayana Manthram, Kilichundan Maambazham, Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu and other Sreenivasan films even now. These films are now available on YouTube. So I watch, Rafeeq told Azeez. The Kochi residents were regular moviegoers back in the 1980s and 1990s. We have watched most of his films in cinemas. His stories and characters are still there in our minds. But we rewatch them whenever possible. His characters were very relatable for us, Azeez added. In fact, almost everyone there had something special to share about his stories and films. For the industry, the passing of an artist who has contributed to the growth of Malayalam films is an irreparable loss. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan pays tribute on behalf of the state government at Ernakulam Town Hall on Saturday.

A comeback dream that was not meant to be...

KOCHI: Sathyan Anthikad had spent the entire Saturday morning with the grieving family. Sitting next to the mortal remains, while the public paid homage, he broke down, as fellow mourners struggled to console the filmmaker. For Anthikad, Sreenivasans demise was a personal loss. He had lost one of his closest friends. We shared a close bond. I used to visit him every two weeks to rejuvenate him. He had been suffering from various ailments for several months. But I never thought he would leave us, Anthikad told reporters. His brain remained sharp... and he was aware of everything. Recently, he told me he felt exhausted. But I reassured him that it was just a phase, and that we would make a comeback... Anthikad did not complete the sentence as he walked away with tears in his eyes. The two first collaborated on Gandhinagar 2nd Street , which was released in 1986. Sreenivasan wrote the screenplay and also played the role of Madhavan. Most of the films the duo came up with, including Nadodikkattu (1987), Varavelpu (1989), Thalayanamanthram (1990), and Sandesam (1991), were hits. These were not merely comedies but flicks that portrayed the lives of common people. In interactions with media, they both spoke about how Sandesam was received by audiences and about the anonymous letters they used to receive. Sreenivasan exposed pretensions of Malayalis through his satirical movies Anthikad trusted Sreenivasan, who was permitted to write dialogues and screenplays even on film sets. When Sreeni and I work on scripts, it makes my job easier, Anthikad had recalled earlier. The friendship grew, appreciating, criticising and correcting each other. In 2018, they came up with their last film together, Njan Prakashan , with Fahadh Faasil, which was another hit. The other films that were the result of the collaboration are: Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam (1986), T P Balagopalan M.A. (1986), Sreedharante Onnam Thirumurivu (1987), and Golanthara Vartha (1993). As years passed, Sreenivasan expressed his wish to do another film with Anthikad and Mohanlal. A project was even in the pipeline. That dream, as it turned out, will remain just that.

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.

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Laughing through life: The enduring bond of Mohanlal and Sreenivasan

KOCHI: Vijaya, eda namukkentha ee budhi nerathe thonnathathu? The conversation between Dasan and Vijayan, played by Mohanlal and Sreenivasan in Nadodikkattu , remains popular and deeply relatable among Malayalee youngsters even after more than three decades. The line is so familiar to Malayalees that it invariably brings a smile. Through characters like Dasan and Vijayan, Mohanlal and Sreenivasan became the faces of a generation grappling with unemployment, migration dreams, and middle-class aspirations. The duo redefined male friendship on screen not as idealised camaraderie, but as something imperfect, marked by arguments, mistakes, and affection, much like real life. Their films made people laugh and think at the same time, which is why their bond continues to live on in the hearts of Malayali audiences. Off-screen too, Mohanlal and Sreenivasan shared a strong camaraderie. In the late 1980s and 1990s, they appeared together in several Malayalam films as friends, colleagues, and even employer and employee. Dasan and Vijayan of the Nadodikkattu trilogy Nadodikkattu (1987), Pattanapravesham (1988), and Akkare, Akkare, Akkare (1990) made audiences laugh while holding up a mirror to society. However, the actor-screenwriter was also a firm critic of Mohanlal, which eventually led to friction in their relationship. Earlier, while speaking to TNIE , Sreenivasan had said, Mohanlal is a complete actor. When asked about how the 2012 film Padmasree Bharat Dr Saroj Kumar affected their friendship, he replied, Even otherwise, our relationship was not that great. EXPRESS DIALOGUES | Todays politics has gone beyond satire:Sreenivasan Recently, at a private event organised by the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), the duo reunited on stage when Mohanlal presented Sreenivasan with an Ultimate Entertainer Award. Mohanlal embraced his old friend and kissed him, a moment that moved many in the audience. Sreenivasans son, Dhyan Sreenivasan, later acknowledged that there were issues in their friendship and that the split occurred after Saroj Kumar. He also said the differences intensified following the death of Prem Nazir when Sreenivasan planned to make a film with Mohanlal. Paying tribute to Sreenivasan, Mohanlal wrote on Facebook that he could not put their bond into words. Sreeni returned without saying goodbye. I dont know how to explain our bond. It was far beyond the definition of working together in films. On screen and in life, we travelled forever laughing, having fun, quarrelling, and reconciling just like Dasan and Vijayan, he wrote. The duo later appeared together again as friends in Chandralekha (1997), playing Appukuttan (Mohanlal) and Nooruddeen (Sreenivasan). Every Malayali shared the same bond with Sreeni. Every Malayali saw their own face in the characters he created. He portrayed pain, joy, and deprivation with rare honesty. Who else could express the dreams and broken dreams of the middle class like Sreeni? The characters we played together will live forever because of the magic of his writing. Dasan and Vijayan became real people for Malayalees because of Sreenis blessed talent. His creations reflected society a beloved soul who captured pain through laughter, Mohanlal wrote, remembering Sreenivasans immense contribution to Malayalam cinema. Together, the duo worked in more than 20 films, including Chitram (1988), Varavelpu (1989), Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu (1988), Mithunam (1993), Kilichundan Mambazham (2003), and Udayananu Tharam (2005). Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, LoP VD Satheesan pay tributes to actor-filmmaker Sreenivasan

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.

Kerala HC quashes government order granting permission for Elappully brewery

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday quashed the preliminary sanction given to Oasis Commercial Private Ltd to establish an ethanol unit in Kanjikode, Palakkad, to produce extra neutral alcohol and other liquor products. However, this will not preclude a fresh consideration of any application, by the government, if made, said Justice Sathish Ninan and Justice P Krishna Kumar. Various factors which weighed with the government while issuingthe order, are not factually correct in its entirety. Therefore, theorder...is liable to bequashed, said the court. The court issued the order on a batch of PILs challenging the preliminary sanction granted to the company to establish an ethanol plant, multi-feed distillation unit, Indian-made foreign liquor bottling unit, a brewery, a malt spirit plant and brandy/winery plant at Elappully panchayat in Kanjikode. The petitioners said the government order has no legal backing, and preempts the statutory authorities and the local self-government institutions from exercising their powers. The issue assumes significance as Palakkad is a dry area. The court said the petitioners allegation that establishment of the unit will aggravate water scarcity, is a matter of serious concern in Palakkad. The unit would require 5000 KL of water per day. Extraction of such a quantity of water would have serious consequences on the life ofresidents. On the source of water, the government order referred to the sanction given by the Kerala Water Authority agreeing to provide requiredquantities of water, and also the rain water harvesting projectproposed by the company. The government order observes that theexploitation of ground water would be avoided. However, the KWAs affidavit stated no binding or conclusive consent was given to the petitioner. The court said while it noticed that explicit consent was given under the letter dated June 16, 2023, the attempt in the counter affidavit is to shrug off the commitment.

Kerala HC flags stagnation in Sabarimala gold scam probe

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday flagged apparent stagnation in the probe into the Sabarimala gold scam and raised doubts over the selective arraignment of Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) members by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). The court, which expressed concern over the slow pace of the probe, also flayed the SIT for not proceeding against advocate N Vijayakumar and K P Sankar Das, who were members of the TDB in 2019. The court noted that the order permitting Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused, to take the door frames and other items from the temple for gold cladding, by mentioning them as copper-plated, was signed by then TDB president A Padmakumar, advocate Vijayakumar and K P Sankar Das, apart from former TDB secretary S Jayasree. It is surprising to note that, when asked whether Vijayakumar and Sankar Das were arraigned and arrested, the prosecution submitted it has not been done so far, the court observed. The court said this indicated serious stagnation in the investigation after December 5, and directed the investigating officer to address the issue and ensure that the probe proceeds against all erring officials without discrimination or selective targeting. Justice A Badharudeen observed that the TDB notice dated July 5, 2019 signed on July 3, 2019, pursuant to a decision of the board stated that the plates covering dwarapalaka idols and the north and south corners of the sreekovil, which were copper-clad, were entrusted with Potti to be taken outside for gold cladding. The notice was signed by TDB members who participated in meeting and by Jayasree. No relief for former TDB officials However, whether all the Devaswom Board members who attended the meeting have been rightly arraigned as accused in the case remains in serious doubt, said the court. Further, it could not be ascertained from the prosecution materials whether the then PWD assistant engineer K Sunil Kumar, former Thiruvabharanam commissioner R G Radhakrishnan; former Sabarimala executive officer V S Rajendra Prasad, and former administrative officer K Rajendran Nair, who have been named in the FIR, were arrested, it observed. The court made the observations while dismissing the bail pleas of K S Baiju, former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner, B Murari Babu, former administrative officer, and N Vasu, former TDB president. The court had earlier observed that Potti enjoyed unbridled freedom to misappropriate the valuable gold of the deity with the connivance of the accused persons, which would not have been possible without the involvement of influential persons who had a role in the administration of the Sabarimala temple. Therefore, the investigation must continue to identify and bring to book all those involved without leaving room for escape, as the allegations are grave. On Friday, the court said, Despite this, no investigation in that direction is discernible from the records available. This is a matter of anxiety and displeasure. I hope that the investigating officer will give due attention to this aspect hereafter, without fail. The order also noted stagnation in the investigation after the dismissal of the anticipatory bail applications of the fourth and sixth accused Jayasree and former administrative officer S Sreekumar on December 4, despite the prosecution having zealously opposed those pleas. The sixth accused was reportedly arrested only on December 17, 12 days after the dismissal of his bail application, though his role had been dealt with in detail in the order rejecting his plea. Jayasree was not arrested, and her bail application, filed on December 18, is pending consideration before the Supreme Court, it noted.

Pope Leo XIV plans to visit India by 2027; Kerala likely on itinerary

KOCHI: Pope Leo XIV is likely to visit India by the end of 2026 or in 2027. Interacting with a delegation of the Syro-Malabar Church led by Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil on December 15, Pope Leo, who was elected the head of the Catholic Church eight months ago, expressed his willingness to visit India. The Pope has conveyed that he is eagerly waiting for his visit to India. Now, the Union government will have to take the initiative. If the visit happens, we are optimistic that Pope Leo XIV will include Kerala in his itinerary, said Thalassery Archbishop Joseph Pamplany, who was part of the delegation that met Pope. The Indian government will have to forward a formal invitation to confirm the papal visit. As the head of the Vatican, protocol requires that the Pope be extended an invitation by a head of a state. Pope has emotional connect with Kerala Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited Pope Francis, Pope Leos predecessor, to India on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy in June 2024. This followed an invitation that Modi extended during his visit to the Vatican in 2021. However, since a new Pope has assumed office, the Centre will have to send a formal invitation now. I dont think a Pope visiting India can avoid Kerala, as the state has been the cradle of Christianity in the country. Before assuming the role of the pontiff, Pope Leo XIV visited Kerala thrice, said Pamplany, who is also the secretary of the Syro Malabar Synod of Bishops. He has an emotional connection with this land, he said. Normally, the Vatican avoids papal visits to friendly nations during an election year. As the next general election in India is due in 2029, the Vatican feels 2027 will be ideal. The first Pope to visit India was Pope Paul VI, who came to Mumbai in 1964 to attend the International Eucharistic Congress. Pope John Paul II visited India in February 1986, during which he visited Kerala and attended the beatification of Sister Alphonsa and Fr Kuriakose Elias Chavara. In 1999, he visited India again in November to meet Indian leaders and conclude the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for Asia.

Jaishankar seeks Dutch push as India-EU trade talks enter decisive phase

NEW DELHI: India and the Netherlands on Friday agreed to deepen cooperation in emerging strategic domains such as semiconductors, digital technology and cyberspace, while also stepping up defence and security engagement, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pressed for Dutch support to conclude the IndiaEuropean Union free trade agreement (FTA). During talks with his Dutch counterpart David van Weel, Jaishankar said the relationship, traditionally strong in areas such as agriculture, health, science and shipping, was ready for a more ambitious phase. Whether it is semiconductors, digital, cyberspace or life sciences, we would like to work more closely with you, he said. With India and the EU in the final stages of negotiating a trade pact expected to be signed in January, Jaishankar added: We count on your support as we are moving to what I hope is a decisive phase in our negotiations with the EU on the free trade agreement. Van Weel, who began his India visit in Mumbai on Wednesday, said he was not aware of any big sticking points that could delay the deal. Hopefully, that will happen in the very near future. I know EU officials will be visiting India as guests on your Republic Day, so Im sure that everybody wants this to be concluded as soon as possible, he told reporters later. At the same time, he acknowledged the complexity of the talks, noting: Its never easy, the EU is 27 nations with different economies, different interests, so all free trade agreements take time to come to fruition. The Dutch ministers visit also focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation. He held meetings with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, with the two sides concluding a letter of intent on Thursday to provide a framework for defence cooperation. As part of this effort, a Dutch frigate will make a port call at Kochi in May 2026. Van Weel also visited the Western Naval Command and the Mazagon Dockyard in Mumbai to explore opportunities for defence industrial collaboration. Regional stability and the Indo-Pacific featured prominently in the discussions. Van Weel said cooperation was crucial at a time when there is pressure on the openness of the oceans and on adherence to UNCLOS. The Netherlands [has] been dependent on the high seas and free passage of trade in order to thrive as an open economy, he said. This is something that we want to cooperate on. Both sides exchanged views on developments in Ukraine, South Asia and West Asia, and condemned all forms of terrorism, stressing the need for stronger international cooperation to counter the threat. Van Weel described Russias war in Ukraine as an existential security issue for Europe. Ukraine cannot lose this war, he said, adding that he had urged partners to use their contacts with Moscow to convey to them the message to come to the negotiating table. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof is expected to visit India in February for the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, and the Netherlands reiterated its invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit, signalling momentum in the bilateral relationship.

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'Let me live': Survivor in 2017 Kerala actor assault case speaks out in emotional message

KOCHI: The survivor of the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case on Friday appealed to the public to let her live with dignity after a video circulated by Martin Antony, the second accused in the case, allegedly revealed her identity. In an emotionally charged post on social media, the actor said the only mistake she made was approaching the police immediately after the violence against her and pursuing legal action. Rejecting labels imposed on her, she wrote on Instagram, Not a victim, not a survivor, just a simple human being. Let me live. Had she remained silent, she wrote, she would later have been accused of not reporting the crime at all. I should have stayed quiet, accepted what happened as fate, and ended my life, the post read, laying bare the emotional toll of continued attacks against her. Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Conspiracy or not, many questions need answers Her response came after she watched the video released by Martin Antony, who has been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment in the case. Condemning his actions, she said he could just as easily have levelled even more damaging and false allegations against her. You could have even claimed that I had filmed a nude video of you, she wrote, underscoring the extent of the humiliation and targeting she continues to face. The actor said those who make such allegations, circulate them online and their relatives should never have to face a similar situation in life. Earlier, after the court acquitted Dileep, the actor had shared a similar emotional post that received widespread public support. On December 13, the Ernakulam District and Sessions Court sentenced all six convicts in the case , including prime accused Pulsar Suni, to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment. The accused were found guilty under Sections 376D (gang rape) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code and were also fined Rs 50,000 each. The verdict and sentence were pronounced by Principal Sessions Judge Honey M Varghese. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.) Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet

Kerala SHO Suspended After CCTV Shows Assault on Pregnant Woman

Kochi native Shymol N J was allegedly assaulted by the then Ernakulam North SHO Chandran after her husband, Benjo, was taken into custody in connection with a case

Centre again slashes Keralas borrowing limit

KOCHI: Dealing a heavy blow to the Kerala governments ambitious plans to fast-track infrastructure and development projects ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, the Centre has sharply reduced the states borrowing limit. The Union finance ministry has informed the state that its borrowing limit for JanuaryMarch period has been reduced by Rs 5,944 crore from the initially approved Rs 12,515 crore, Finance Minister K N Balagopal said on Thursday. The state is now left with a mere Rs 5,672 crore to sustain its operations for the next three months. Effectively, the states monthly borrowing capacity has been throttled to approximately Rs 2,200 crorea figure far below its actual requirements, he said. We have managed to tide over the crisis in the last four-and-half years despite the financial burdens imposed on us by the Centre. The latest development comes even as the states annual average financial expenditure is nearing Rs 2 lakh crore in the current fiscal... However, there is an overall reduction of Rs 1,25,000 crore in borrowing in the last five years due to the Centres restrictions. The Centre is squeezing the states financial resources which is hitting the states overall development majorly, Balagopal said. Centre backtracking on its responsibilities: Min The Centre earlier justified the financial tightening by factoring in off-budget borrowings made by KIIFB and Social Security Pensions Ltd into the states overall debt ceiling. This netting out policy implemented last year had also drawn sharp criticism from the state leadership. The Centre is backtracking on its responsibilities under the Centre-state relationship one by one, Balagopal said. It started with the introduction of the GST reform, and the latest rate rationalisation with regard to GST is between 8 and 9%. As per a study of Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation, Kerala alone will suffer a financial loss of Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 crore in the next financial year. Recent changes in MGNREGS will impose an additional burden of Rs 1,6002,000 crore annually on the state. Currently, the Centre bears 90% of the schemes expenditure. With that reduced to 60%, the state will be forced to shoulder a significantly higher share. The timing of the latest cut is particularly damaging, Balagopal said. The final quarter of the financial year sees a surge in public spending. The state treasury is currently bracing for a massive outflow. Approximately Rs 20,000 crore is required to clear pending bills for public works. Roughly Rs 15,000 crore is needed for salaries of government employees and retired personnel. With the recent hike in welfare pensions to Rs 2,000 per month, the social security net requires additional funding that is now in jeopardy. Financial analysts warn that if the current restrictions persist, the state may struggle to pay salaries and pensions, potentially leading to a complete administrative standstill. Keralas current Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) stands at Rs 14,27,145 crore. Under existing fiscal rules, states are entitled to borrow up to 3% of their GSDP. Based on this, Kerala had requested a total borrowing limit of Rs 42,814 crore for the year. While Rs 29,529 crore was utilised or approved until December, the latest cuts have derailed the states remaining budget plans. Furthermore, the Centre has withheld an additional Rs 3,300 crore related to public sector undertaking guarantees. Although the state government established a Redemption Fund to satisfy central requirements and unlock these funds, the Union government is yet to grant the necessary clearances. As the fiscal year draws to a close, Kerala finds itself in a high-stakes standoff with the Centre, with the livelihoods of thousands of employees and the progress of vital projects hanging in the balance.

Take in rustic life: Vadakkanadu farmers novel idea to guard the crops a big hit

KOCHI: For urbanites, who want an escape from the fast and restless city life, it is a rare opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate. Enjoy the cool breeze, blend with nature, and share space with singing birds, squirrels and monkeys. If lucky, you can also sight marauding wild elephants. The novel idea launched by the farmers of Vadakkanadu in Wayanads Sultan Bathery has become a roaring hit, with youngsters from far-away cities flocking to the village to guard the crops. Paddy cultivation is labour intensive and the farmer has to stay awake during the last 30 days when the crop ripens from milk to grain. It is a tough task to guard the crop from wild elephants, deer and wild pigs during the season. Often the farmers are forced to harvest the crop before it ripens. Offering a relief to the farmers who are desperate to save the crops, Paul Mathews, chairman of the High Court-monitored task force for reporting and implementing solutions to man-animal conflict, has introduced volunteers to guard the crops. Paul Mathews posted a video on social media inviting youngsters to guard crops staying in tree huts on a daily basis. The response was overwhelming. Youngsters from Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Alappuzha and Thrissur flocked to Sultan Bathery to shoulder the responsibility. It was a mind-blowing experience, said Sunil Titto, a software professional settled in Pune. I saw the social media post and arrived in Sultan Bathery in the first week of December. There were two youngsters from Thrissur with me. We stayed awake through the night in turns, watching for the entry of elephants. Only some deer were spotted. It was cool and the weather was pleasant, he said. The scenic beauty of Vadakkanadu I have been cultivating paddy in my 4 acre farm land for the past four decades. In recent years we are unable to reap the fruits of our labour due to the increasing wild animal menace. Big herds of wild elephants enter the field and destroy the crop during night. The arrival of volunteers to guard the crop has been a big relief, said Jayamani, a farmer. Paul Mathews had moved an application in the High Court seeking direction to the forest department to step up vigil during the harvest season. As the department expressed helplessness citing lack of funds, he advised farmers to seek the help of volunteers to guard the crops. We have laid down strict guidelines for deployment of volunteers. Youngsters interested in helping the farmers should book the dates through a WhatsApp group and arrive at the spot before 5 am. They should climb atop the tree hut before dusk and should not get down before dawn break. They will not be allowed to lit fire or consume liquor. They should bring food and blankets. We will provide them with torch to keep watch over the fields. If the elephants arrive, they have to make noise and alert the farmers, said Paul Mathews. Wayanad has around 17,000 hectares of paddy fields which are surrounded by forest. There are hundreds of tree huts along the fringe areas and the farmers are planning to extend the project to more areas. After day long labour, we are not able to keep watch on the crops during night hours. So if some people volunteer to keep watch on the wild animals, it will be a big relief. We are not charging the volunteers for the night stay and will provide basic facilities, said Jayamani.

Lefts song and dance over parody row has few takers in Kerala

KOCHI: Satire has long been part of Keralas political culture, with musical parody used as a key campaign tool across the spectrum. The recently concluded local body election was no exception. Among the songs that went viral was Pottiye Kettiye, a take-off of a popular Ayyappa devotional that references the Sabarimala gold theft case. It drew little controversy until Wednesday evening, when the police cyber wing registered a case against its creators, alleging that it hurt religious sentiments. The development followed a complaint filed by a member of the Thiruvabharana Patha Samrakshana Samithi (TPSS). Subsequently, the CPM also raised concerns and is reportedly considering petitioning election authorities, citing a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. If the song hurt religious sentiments, action should be taken, LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan told reporters in New Delhi. Closer to home, CPM Pathanamthitta district secretary Raju Abraham alleged that the song was used in a manner that threatened dangerous polarisation. Opposition leaders, however, termed the move an attack on freedom of expression, pointing out that the CPM itself has used pastiche for political mobilisation in the past. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan recalled how the CPM had used a parody of the same devotional song 11 years ago to mock former chief minister K Karunakaran. They were not concerned about religious sentiments then. The current concern is because the song refers to the alleged theft of Lord Ayyappas gold, Satheesan stressed. Meanwhile, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said songs cannot win elections. Satire has been used to target political leaders such as Sonia Gandhi, Narendra Modi, and even Pinarayi Vijayan. But it never influenced poll outcomes, he said. Double standards As the matter gained gravity, Chief Minister Pinarayis 2022 defence of writer S Hareesh after his novel Meesha drew threats from right-wing groups surfaced on social media. Creativity thrives only in a fearless atmosphere, Pinarayi had then said. Many flagged the double standards on free expression by the self-styled progressive left government. Veteran journalist K P Sethunath said, The left has always been opportunistic, and their politics is often short-sighted. Meanwhile, legal experts have questioned the police action. Supreme Court lawyer Abhilash M R said the case was not sustainable under law. Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhitas section 299, a case for hurting religious sentiments can be registered only if there is intent to insult or wound religious beliefs. However, if you look at the song, only two words refer to Sabarimala Ayyappa and Shasthav. The rest are factual issues regarding the gold heist, as heard uttered by politicians on stages and laymen in the streets and at homes, Abhilash told TNIE. How is it that when the same is turned into song, there is suddenly scope for a criminal case? The semantics have remained unchanged Essentially, this is political talibanism, Abhilash pointed out. Had it been the case that the song did indeed hurt religious sentiment, any talk of a case should have emerged two months ago, when it was released. Now, it seems the entire complaint and the proceedings thereafter are carefully orchestrated, he added. Sethunath echoed the view, especially now that the TPSS has distanced itself from the complainant. Unlike the defence of Hareesh, or later, the support given to the staging of a controversial play based on a Nikos Kazantzakis book, the parody fiasco, he said, is baseless, and the left should ideally distance itself from it rather than make a song and dance of it. Creators unfazed Meanwhile, the songs creators are unfazed by the developments. Danish Padinjattumuri, the singer, was quoted by TV news channels as saying that the song had not offended devotees. He noted how pilgrims had played the song during their journey to Sabarimala. Lyricist G P Kunhabdulla Chalappuram, speaking to TNIE from Qatar, dismissed the case. This is a political distraction. The left does not want the song to circulate ahead of the assembly election, he said. POLICE TO SOFT-PEDAL PROBE ON CASE TPuram: Despite registering a case against parody song Swarnam kattavar aarappa. sakhakkal aane Ayyappa set to the familiar tune of an Ayyappa devotional song that was widely used by the opposition parties in the local body polls to take on the state government in the Sabarimala gold heist case, the police are unlikely to take any further legal action on the matter. There were reports that the police would take down the song from social media platforms, but sources said so far the cops have not made any such moves. As the case became a subject of discussion, the police would soft-pedal its investigation so as not to ruffle any feathers further, sources added. Thiruvananthapuram cyber police station is probing the case, which was registered on the basis of a complaint filed by Prasad Kuzhikal, general secretary of the Thiruvabharanam Padha Samraksha Samithi, that it hurt the religious sentiments. The case was registered against the songwriter, singer, composer and producer. VERIFY DETAILS OF COMPLAINT: CMO Pathanamthitta: The Chief Ministers Office (CMO) has directed officials to examine a complaint seeking verification of the official recognition of the committee that filed a complaint against the parody song Pottiye Kettiye, alleging that it insulted religious sentiments by using the name of Lord Ayyappa. The directive follows a complaint submitted by High Court advocate and social activist Advocate Kulathoor Jay Singh, which has been forwarded by the CMO to the Registration Inspector General for inquiry. The complaint seeks verification of the official status and registration of the Ranni Thiruvabharanapatha Samrakshana Samithi, whose general secretary is claimed to be Prasad Kuzhikkala, the person who filed the complainant against the song. Prasad Kuzhikkala had alleged that the parody song was intended to provoke communal disharmony.

Anti-govt sentiments aided UDF, led to drop in NDA vote share, feels BJP

KOCHI: A 2% fall in the NDA vote share in the local body polls, despite year long preparations at the grassroots, has shocked the state BJP leadership. A senior leader said the party has decided to conduct a detailed evaluation of the fall in share particularly in party strongholds. As per a preliminary analysis, the party feels strong anti-government sentiments, triggered by Sabarimala gold theft and Muslim vote consolidation turned the tide in favour of the UDF. The verdict was against the LDF government. When the sole aim is to defeat the ruling dispensation, people consider the winnability factor and it created a situation favourable for UDF. In Central Travancore, NDA made gains in local bodies where we have strong support. There has been a positive change in the approach of Hindu voters and BJP is no longer untouchable for Syrian Christian community. The only setback was in Thrissur where we failed to retain a major share of Christian votes. We are studying the causes for decline in vote share, said a senior BJP leader. The NDA got a vote share of 16.4% in district panchayats, 1% higher than the 2020 elections. However, it is 3.5% lower than the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Senior leaders said the vote share in urban areas has grown to 20% while in grama panchayats it has fallen to 16-18%. According to the party, the decline in vote share was a temporary factor as voters in South Kerala considered only winnability to register their protest against Sabarimala gold theft. The support of the Syrian Catholic, Nair and Ezhava communities was evident in Kottayam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthittta, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram. Meanwhile, the churning within the Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS), the only major ally of the NDA, is causing headache to the BJP. The rift between the workers of the BJP and BDJS has widened with BDJS leaders alleging that the BJP tried to defeat its candidates. The party contested in more than 300 seats, but could win only 20 seats. With just four months left for the assembly polls, there is growing pressure within the BDJS to join either UDF or LDF, so that it can get representation in the assembly and claim minister post. The demand will be raised in the state council meeting of the party scheduled to be held on December 23. Party president Thushar Vellappally reiterated that the party will continue with the NDA. Thushar also met Nitin Nabin, the new working president of BJP in Delhi on Tuesday. Not all bad The NDA became the single largest party in 26 panchayats while it has drawn a tie in 15 panchayats While increasing its presence across the state the NDA lost 600 sitting wards but gained around 1,000 new wards

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

Indian Cultural Congress 2025 in Kochi from December 19

Kochi Mayor will not be chosen based on caste or religious equations, says Satheesan

His statement comes in the wake of reports about the perceived indecision over the UDFs mayoral candidate in Kochi; Three candidates Deepthy Mary Varghese, V.K. Minimol, and Shiny Mathew are being seen as top contenders for the post

CCTV footage emerges showing SHO assaulting woman at police station in Kochi

Couple say they had petitioned the Chief Minister, the State Human Rights Commission, and the Information Commission, but to no avail

Tragedy averted as Air India Express flight makes emergency landing in Kochi after tyre burst

Iran To Tajikistan: Probe Agency Uncovers New Trail In Kerala Kidney Racket

A Kochibased man accused of running an international kidney racket allegedly trafficked poor Indians not just to Iran, but also to Tajikistan for illegal transplants, latest National Investigation Agency (NIA) case records show.