From backing KGF to reinventing Hindi cinema with hits like Don, veteran producer Ritesh Sidhwani has explained why authentic storytelling and constant evolution are preferred over chasing box-office formulas. When Excel Entertainment backed the Hindi release of Prashanth Neels KGF, the blockbuster franchise reshaped Pan-India box-office dynamics. But for veteran producer Ritesh Sidhwani, the co-founder behind ground-breaking Hindi hits like Don and Dil Chahta Hai, success has never been a reason to change course or blindly follow trends. Addressing the ongoing narrative around South Indian cinema dominating the box office, Sidhwani offered a sharp, grounded perspective on storytelling and creative independence. Talking about the grand success of KGF and the evolving cinematic landscape with Variety India, Sidhwani shared a warm perspective on what truly makes a film strike a chord with moviegoers. He shared, The South filmmakers, whether its Prashanth Neel or anyone else, openly share that they grew up watching classic Salim-Javed stories. They obviously use that in their stories. KGF works here because we are not telling the stories in a certain way. I think those stories are exciting for our audience too. I saw KGF and thoroughly enjoyed it. For Sidhwani, who has built Excel Entertainment into one of the countrys most dynamic and respected production houses, every project begins with passion rather than market trends. He explained, Our approach is to never follow trends, and that's what we kept in mind while making Don too. You have to constantly change yourself. You have to do whatever excites you, is relatable to you, and connects with you. Highlighting his belief in the maturity and openness of Indian cinema lovers, Sidhwani added: The audiences here are accepting of every kind of cinema. So, I dont know if we should be of the opinion that whatever is working in the South should be done here. Also Read: From Dil Chahta Hai to Don: Ritesh Sidhwani reflects on Excel Entertainments 25 years journey; says, Each film was different
Sylvester Stallone on telling his story through Rocky
Sylvester Stallone has opened up about why he chose to tell his story through the Rocky franchise. Speaking on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the actor reflected on his many ups and downs and said he wanted to pass on his experiences through the character
1st T20I: India Aim To Carry Asiad Momentum Against West Indies (Preview)
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket: India will look to carry the momentum of their recent Asian Games success into the five-match T20I series against the West Indies when the sides meet at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium here on Tuesday. The T20I series follows just three days after the West Indies chased down 352 in New Chandigarh, achieving their highest successful ODI run chase against India. Captain Shai Hope scored a brilliant 162 not out to lead the visitors to victory and give them a significant boost in confidence for the shorter format series. The Men in Blue will be wary of the danger that the Caribbean side, consisting of many power-hitters, possesses, something they must have seen in the recently concluded 50-over series. Amir Jangoo, the wicketkeeper-batter, has been added to the West Indies' squad as cover for Jewel Andrew, who sustained a finger injury during the third ODI on Saturday. Amir Jangoo has been added to the squad as cover for the wicketkeeping position following the finger injury sustained by Jewel Andrew during Saturdays third ODI. Andrew is still being monitored and assessed by the medical team, CWI said in a statement on Monday. The last time India and West Indies played a T20I series was in the Caribbean in 2023, with the hosts winning it 3-2. India will now start a new phase in the format with Shreyas Iyer as captain and Tilak Varma his deputy. On Saturday, Iyer guided India to victory in the final of the Asian Games in Nisshin, Japan, beating Pakistan by 19 runs in an exciting final. The captain will now be focusing on a new-look T20I series against a West Indies team which is entering the series with increased confidence. India have in the past dominated the rivalry in the shortest format, having a 20-10 lead in 31 T20 matches. Their record at home is even more impressive, since they won nine of the 11 T20I matches they played against West Indies on home soil. Since 2018, India have won 18 out of the 23 T20I matches they have played at home against the West Indies. The West Indies have demonstrated that they are capable of giving India a tough time when their power hitters hit early and their bowlers carry out their strategies effectively. In their match in Lucknow, their task will be to keep up the aggression without falling into the middle-over mistakes that have usually enabled India to gain the upper hand. Hope will play a central role in their strategy. Although he had a minor groin complaint, he performed brilliantly during the chase and then picked up the pace towards the end, scoring 62 runs from his last 39 deliveries. The combination of composure and power that he showed will be useful in the T20 format. In New Chandigarh as well, Keemo Paul scored 44 runs off 35 balls, hitting five fours after he had been promoted in the order. The fact that he is capable of contributing with both bat and ball means that West Indies now have another possible match-winner. The Ekana Stadium is usually seen as a suitable surface for batting, even though spinners can be used as the ball wears on. Teams that bat early and successfully vary their pace are probably going to have the advantage. On Sunday, the West Indies had their training session under the lights at the ground, and India are due to train on Tuesday, having returned from Japan. The other four T20I matches will then be held in Ranchi on October 9, Indore on October 11, Hyderabad on October 14 and Bengaluru on October 17. When: Tuesday, October 6 Where: Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium Where to watch: The first T20I will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and live-streamed on JioHotstar. Squads: West Indies: Shai Hope (c), Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Kamil Pooran, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer Squads: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Any process disenfranchising millions is arbitrary: Justice Bhuyan on SIR
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan said stripping citizens of their voting rights on a large scale would strike 'at the very heart of the Constitution'
Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman has raised alarms about democracy's integrity due to unauthorized voter removals. He highlighted that around 90 lakh voters in West Bengal have been disenfranchised, with many unable to appeal against their deletions. Nariman criticized the Election Commission's appointment process and its functioning, suggesting the need for reform. Concerns about disenfranchisement were echoed by Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, emphasizing its arbitrary nature.
CEC's ability to 'execute G2's illegal orders' makes him a liability for country: Congress
Jairam Ramesh's attack on the CEC came a day after Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan remarked that any process that disenfranchises millions of Indian citizens is intrinsically arbitrary and a egation of the constitutional order
No whataboutery can justify...: SC judge amid SIR row
Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has unequivocally stated that any process disenfranchising Indian citizens is arbitrary and violates the Constitution.
CEC executing 'G2's illegal orders' makes him liability for country: Cong
The Congress on Monday said Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar must quit right away and claimed that his ability to execute G2's illegal orders has now made him a liability for the country. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh's attack on the CEC came a day after Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan remarked that any process that disenfranchises millions of Indian citizens is intrinsically arbitrary and a egation of the constitutional order. No amount of whataboutery can justify it, Bhuyan added. Sharing a post carrying the video clip of Bhuyan's remarks, Ramesh said on X, Here is the bold Justice Ujjal Bhuyan speaking yesterday in NALSAR University in Hyderabad, where he exposed the CEC lock, stock and barrel. If he has any sense of shame, Gyanesh Kumar must quit right away. His (Kumar's) ability to execute G2's illegal orders have now made him a liability for the country, Ramesh said. Ramesh often uses the term 'G2' to tak
Maricos core franchises expected to power a strong Q2 as FMCG demand holds firm
Marico expects to achieve a double-digit revenue growth in the second quarter of FY27. This growth will be driven by strong domestic demand and improvements in premium and digital-first businesses. The company is benefiting from favorable copra prices that are likely to enhance profit margins. Marico's first-half performance indicates it might exceed its near-term financial guidance. Companies in the consumer goods market are managing resilient demand against fluctuating inflationary pressures.
Strikes at very heart of Constitution: SC judge Ujjal Bhuyan on SIR mass voter deletions
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan highlighted the significance of voting rights during a recent address at NALSAR University. He stated that disenfranchisement of citizens undermines the constitutional order established by the Indian Constitution. Bhuyan emphasized that the right to vote is a fundamental constitutional right tied to democracy. He also referenced Supreme Court judgments regarding voter registration and deletion processes.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Drishyam 3 box office Day 3: Ajay Devgn sets franchise record with opening weekend
Drishyam 3 box office Day 3: Ajay Devgn sets franchise record with opening weekend
Democracy in peril as voters illegally ousted: Ex-SC judge Nariman
Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman expressed concerns regarding the functioning of the Election Commission in India. He highlighted the issue of illegal removal of voters from electoral lists, especially in West Bengal. Nariman noted that 90 lakh voters were disenfranchised, with many not having access to justice. He emphasized the need for reform in the appointment process of election commissioners to ensure fairness.
SIR strikes at heart of Constitution: Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan condemned the extensive deletion of voter names from electoral rolls due to the special intensive revision process. He emphasized that such actions undermine the core principles of the Indian Constitution and disenfranchise millions of citizens. Bhuyan highlighted that the right to vote is essential for free and fair elections in India. He urged that no citizen should be denied the right to vote without due process.
Reliance Retail, 7-Eleven end 5-yr India deal
Mumbai: Reliance Retail and 7-Eleven are ending their five-year franchisee deal in India, closing most of the nearly 60 convenience stores they operated under the partnership, after struggling to make the format profitable, people familiar with the matter said.A handful of outlets are clearing the inventory before shutting, they said. 7-Eleven may look for another Indian partner to keep a foothold in the market, although no decision has been made, the people said.The exit highlights an unusual squeeze that convenience stores are facing in India, with millions of small kirana stores that have long served consumers' immediate needs on one side and quick-commerce companies that are bringing the same snacks, groceries and daily essentials to doorsteps within minutes on the other.134679627Reliance and 7-Eleven did not respond to ET's queries.The partnership, struck in 2021, was intended to bring the world's largest convenience-store chain to India through Reliance's retail network. But the business struggled to achieve the scale needed to offset the relatively high costs of running branded stores.The 7-India Convenience Retail venture reported revenue of about 92 crore ($10.6 million) and a net loss of nearly 90 crore in the year ended March 2026, according to its financial statements.Reliance wants to reach consumers across every channel, but sustainability ultimately matters. Convenience stores have faced increasing pressure from quick commerce since the pandemic, with both formats offering similar assortments and serving the same immediate-needs occasions, said Devangshu Dutta, founder and CEO of Third Eyesight, a consumer-sector consultancy.Kiranas operate with far lower overheads and different margin expectations than corporate-run convenience stores. Reliance's exit could therefore signal a broader rethink of the format, particularly in markets where quick commerce has become a strong alternative.Globally convenience stores have become powerful retail businesses in several markets despite the expansion of supermarkets and hypermarkets. 7-Eleven in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and Singapore; Lawson in Japan and Oxxo in Mexico are among the largest retailers in their respective markets.7-Eleven's Japanese parent, Seven & i Holdings, operates more than 85,000 stores globally, making it one of the world's largest retail networks. Yet the company has been restructuring its overseas operations and closing stores in North America as consumer behaviour and store economics change.In India, however, organised convenience retail has struggled to replicate the success seen in other Asian and emerging markets. EasyDay, More and Spencer's have either shut stores or shrank their smaller-format networks over the years, underscoring the difficulty of building profitable neighbourhood stores at scale.Packaged consumer goods companies continue to derive roughly three-fourths of their sales from small neighbourhood stores, underlining the strength of the traditional distribution network. Quick commerce platforms are, meanwhile, expanding rapidly.That makes it difficult for organised convenience stores to charge a premium or generate sufficient sales density to cover higher rents, staffing, inventory and logistics costs.Convenience retail works best when operators achieve high store density and productivity, supported by strong supply chains and differentiated offerings such as fresh food and private labels.Reliance initially expanded the 7-Eleven network in Mumbai and other markets, but the footprint remained small compared with the company's wider retail operations.
Sylvester Stallone on Rocky: Everyone has a story but not many get the chance to tell
Digital Desk | Los Angeles, Oct 4 (IANS) Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone has shared why he wanted to tell his story through his film franchise Rocky. The actor recently appeared on the chat show The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The show host shared a recent incident when he watched Rocky with his daughter. He said, 2 months ago, before we even knew that you were booked on the show, I said, told my daughter, You got to watch this movie. Rocky is one of my favorite movies, one of my favorite actors. I recently watched the film with my 13-year-old. She loved it. And as you're working out and you're running and you go up the steps and you're out of breath the first time, she goes, Look. He's got nothing going on. She goes, look, he's out of breath. He can't even make the steps. And I'm like, You're falling right into the trap. I can't wait till it pays off in the end. He's got to work hard. I love it. I thought it was such a great movie. And obviously it changed everything. But there's so many stories about the film. The actor responded, Jimmy, everyone has a story. And unfortunately, a lot of people aren't able to tell their story. And the opportunity presented itself. The actor shared that life has its share of good and bad days, but one has to keep moving forward, as he said, I've been around a long time, a lot of ups and downs. And I thought I got to pass on some of these adventures and maybe you'll get some sort of instruction out of it. Like you're not alone. Life is tough and you got to keep punching. The 'Rocky' franchise is considered one of the greatest franchises. The actor's story is documented in the upcoming film I Play Rocky. The film is a biopic on Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone, and traces his journey from being a nobody to becoming one of the greatest action stars of Hollywood owing to his work in the franchise. Long before his character of Rocky Balboa became a global cultural icon, Sylvester Stallone was a struggling actor with little money, few opportunities and one unwavering belief, that he could write and star in a story that would change his life. I Play Rocky takes audiences behind the scenes of that extraordinary chapter.
Mass disenfranchisement of citizens intrinsically arbitrary: SC Judge Ujjal Bhuyan
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 4 (IANS) Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan on Sunday strongly criticised any process that leads to the wholesale exclusion of citizens from electoral rolls, terming it intrinsically arbitrary and a direct assault on the Constitution. Speaking at the valedictory address of the 19th Justice Bodh Raj Sawhney Memorial Moot Court Competition at NALSAR University of Law, Justice Bhuyan said, If any process results in disenfranchising millions and millions of Indian citizens, making them second-class citizens in their own country in the sense of being citizens without voting rights, such a process is intrinsically arbitrary. No amount of whataboutery can justify it. He asserted that the Indian Constitution does not envisage two classes of citizensone with voting rights and another without. Any such process, he emphasised, would violate Articles 326 (universal adult suffrage) and 14 (right to equality). No authority can do it; no court can condone it. No one is above the Constitution, Justice Bhuyan declared. He underlined that the right to vote is intertwined with Indias long struggle for freedom and forms part of the basic structure of the Constitution. Article 326, he said, cannot be tinkered with at all. Justice Bhuyan further observed that except in the case of a deceased voter, no name can be deleted from the electoral rolls without notice and a hearing. Detaching the right to vote from citizenship, he remarked, would be like taking out the soul from the body. The remarks come amid ongoing controversies surrounding large-scale deletions under the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and related petitions before the Supreme Court. Justice Bhuyans statements reinforce the constitutional protection of adult suffrage as a non-negotiable foundation of Indian democracy.
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Justice Bhuyan: Disenfranchising Millions Negates Constitutional Order
Any process leading to wholesale disenfranchisement would violate Articles 326 and 14 of the Constitution: Justice Bhuyan
'No whataboutery can justify act of taking away voting rights': Supreme Court judge amid SIR row
While the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls continues following a report claiming 'dissent' within members of Election Commission of India (ECI) over the drive, a sitting Supreme Court judge said on Sunday that an exercise which disenfranchises people is intrinsically arbitrary and a negation of the constitutional order.
RJD, AISA protest against CEC and SIR
The Supreme Court judge says no amount of whataboutery can justify the exclusion of voters en masse from the electoral rolls as such an action is fatal to the Constitution
Teen dies after fall from fourth floor of Chas building
The IPL mega auction highlights how emotions can cloud decision-making for franchise owners. These psychological traps mirror investors behaviours in stock markets, where past spending often skews current judgments.
Police Clash with Chain Snatching Gang in Ranchi, Three Arrested
Ranchi police apprehended three suspects linked to a chain snatching gang, recovering over ten gold chains during a confrontation. Police Clash with Chain Snatching Gang in Ranchi, Three Arrested
No whataboutery can justify voter disenfranchisement, says SC judge; oppn says CEC 'exposed'
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'Strikes At Heart Of Constitution': Top Court Judge On Mass Deletion Of Voters
If any process results in disenfranchising millions and millions of Indian citizens... such a process is intrinsically arbitrary... It strikes at the very heart of the Constitution, said Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, speaking at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.
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Form 7 misuse during SIR: why ECI must act suo motu
Universal adult franchise is the structural bedrock of the Indian Constitution, explicitly enshrined under Article 326. When this foundation is chipped away through targeted voter purges, democratic legitimacy gives way to systemic disenfranchisement. The integrity of Indian elections currently faces a profound structural challenge: the orchestrated weaponisation of statutory deletion procedures, specifically Form 7 submissions 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 .
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Facts over fearmongering: BJP counters Cong over 13 crore 'deletions', shares 'explainer' on SIR
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Amid widespread controversy over the discrepancies in the Election Commission's 'flawed and partisan' Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and Opposition's clamour for action, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday issued a detailed rebuttal of charges while accusing Congress, the principal opposition party, of resorting to 'fearmongering'. BJP General Secretary Vinod Tawde shared an 'explainer' video on his X account, to counter and debunk the litany of charges against the Election Commission (EC) and also reject accusations of ruling BJP's involvement in the whole episode. The 'explainer' video addresses slew of issues ranging from 13 crore voter deletions, purported changes in Form-6, alteration in ECINET format, among many others. The 13 crore names were not deleted -- they were flagged for verification in categories such as deceased, absent, transferred, or duplicate. The final action takes place after the processing of claims, objections, and appeals, BJP leader Tawde said, recently appointed as the party's Uttar Pradesh In-charge. Giving break-up of the proposed deletions in draft electoral rolls, it explains that about 2.6 crore voters were recorded dead, three crore absent at given address, 6.3 crore permanently shifted to different locations and one crore duplicate voters were registered. It also adds that the detailed information was shared with about 20 lakh booth level agents of all parties. No changes were made to alter Form-6. All three Election Commissioners were in consonance on the additional details added with the Form-6 and it had the approval of Supreme Court, it claims. The 'explainer' video also rejects claims of centralisation, saying that there was no structural change in the framework and the local EC staff, including Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) were fully equipped to handle voters' request at local level. The BJP leader accused the Congress of indulging in fearmongering, in a bid to conceal the facts and also urged people to follow the facts rather than getting swayed by Opposition's 'lies and fakery'. Saying that SIR's objective is to include every voter and not disenfranchise anyone, it informs that 2.3 crore new Gen-Z voters have been added so far since the SIR drive started last year and today, the total strength of Gen-Z voters stands at 17.3 crore. Dismissing the 'vote chori' allegations as means to befool and mislead the electorate, it says the poll panel always acted within the statutory powers and the SIR drive in all states that went to polls (Bihar and West Bengal) were duly upheld by the apex court.
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Asian Games gold medalists from Jharkhand return home, get warm welcome at Ranchi airport
Ranchi Ranchis Birsa Munda Airport reverberated with slogans and chants of celebration on Sunday, as four daughters of Jharkhand returned The post Asian Games gold medalists from Jharkhand return home, get warm welcome at Ranchi airport appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Will bury dictatorship manufactured under Make in India: Uddhav Thackeray at Mumbai rally
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 4 (IANS) Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday launched direct attacks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI) during a rally in Mumbai. Referring to PM Modi's 'Make in India' initiative, Thackeray said, When he first became the Prime Minister, he announced Make in India. We supported that vision. But if you are manufacturing a dictator under Make in India, we stand here today to bury that dictatorship. Everything else under Make in India is fine, but if you attempt to become a dictator, consider your authoritarianism buried. Addressing 'Garjana Morcha' in Mumbai, organised by the Shiv Sena(UBT) with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Central government and the ECI over allegations of systemic electoral fraud and the erosion of democratic institutions. He framed the demonstration as a ationwide crusade to safeguard Indias constitutional fabric and civil liberties, warning that public resentment could soon spill over into the streets if institutional overreach continues. Raising concerns over electoral roll manipulations, Uddhav Thackeray alleged that 13 crore voters have been erased from electoral lists across the country. That figure equals the entire population of Maharashtra. Is this arbitrary deletion acceptable to you? he asked the protesting crowd. He accused the authorities of 'stealthily purging vast voter bases. He pointed out that nearly 13 crore voters nationwide, including two crore in Maharashtra alone, have been unaccounted for or disenfranchised. He further noted that 70 lakh voters in Tamil Nadu and 30 lakh voters in West Bengal were removed. Pointing to West Bengal, Uddhav Thackeray noted that several invalidated voter applications were recently deemed valid right before the upcoming byelections. Criticising the legal delays, he questioned why urgent petitions filed in the Supreme Court face scheduled hearings just a day before polling. If the hearing takes place on the 5th and polling is on the 6th, how can reinstated voters exercise their rights? The ruling regime has captured every independent institution, he alleged. Questioning the credibility and appointment process of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, Uddhav Thackeray criticised the legislative removal of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the selection panel. He highlighted that the three-member panel now consists of the Prime Minister, a Cabinet Minister -- Union Home Minister Amit Shah -- and the Leader of the Opposition. With Home Minister Amit Shah on the committee, it creates an automatic 2-1 majority for the ruling government. Despite formal dissent from the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, Gyanesh Kumar was appointed without waiting for scheduled court hearings. His appointment is fundamentally biased, he alleged. Remarking on the political narrative, Uddhav Thackeray asserted that while the BJP once built a narrative against alleged Congress corruption, current public sentiment across the nation has shifted to an India Against Vote-Chor (India Against Vote Thieves) movement. Denouncing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Uddhav Thackeray claimed the party is incapable of governance. Governance and the BJP are polar opposites. What you are running is not an administration -- it is sheer political retribution, he charged, estimating that verifying the remaining disputed voter applications at the current pace would take nearly 146 months. Questioning the law and order state under the ruling administration in Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray cited the recent murder of Shiv Sena office-bearer Pradeep Purnekar in Thane. Where are your police forces and Home Minister now? Is this your version of Hindutva? he asked. He added that the terms BJP and administration have become contradictory, characterising the current administration as driven by political vengeance. Invoking Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, he noted that Balasaheb consistently rejected such a miserable and vengeful version of democracy. Where is your Hindutva government when crimes against women and citizens are rising across the nation? he asked. Issuing a direct warning to the ruling establishment, Uddhav Thackeray said: You may have captured institutions and administrations, but the streets belong to the people. A day will come when you will find it difficult to even walk these public streets. The protest march, stretching from Metro Cinema to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters at CSMT, saw thousands of supporters marching with only the Indian Tricolour, strictly eschewing party flags. The rally united a broad coalition of opposition parties, with participation from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), Congress, Peasants and Workers Party of India (PWP), Left parties, along with MNS and Shiv Sena(UBT) cadres. The high-profile joint rally signals a major political escalation in Maharashtra, bringing opposing political factions together to challenge the Election Commission.
U.K. Base Would Be Ambitious Target for
The U.S. war in Iran unleashed small-scale attacks by local criminals or disenfranchised young men hired anonymously to target Jewish and American sites in Europe and North America, experts say.
The iconic Japanese anime franchise Doraemon is making unprecedented waves at the Indian box office. Its latest feature, Doraemon: Castle of the Undersea Devil, maintained strong theatrical momentum on its second day, earning Rs 2.60 crore gross. This represents a minimal 10% drop from its opening day collection of Rs 2.90 crore gross, taking the [] The post Doraemon: Castle of the Undersea Devil Scores Solid Day 2 Hold; Heading for Record Opening Weekend in India appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Thackeray brothers lead Garjana Morcha in Mumbai, challenge ECI over SIR row
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 4 (IANS) In a display of political unity, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena(UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday spearheaded a high-decibel Garjana Morcha in Mumbai. Marching from Metro Cinema to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, the joint rally delivered a broadside against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission of India (ECI) over alleged voter roll manipulation. The protest gained substantial momentum as key constituents of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), including the Nationalist Congress Party(Sharadchandra Pawar) and the Congress party, joined forces on the streets. The Communist Parties, Peasants and Workers Party also participated in the march. Ditching party flags in favour of the Tricolour, thousands of demonstrators marched demanding strict accountability, the scrapping of the controversial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, and the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Questioning the legitimacy of the recent election outcomes, Raj Thackeray pointed to the eerie silence across the state after the Assembly election results. He argued that a genuine democratic mandate is marked by spontaneous public celebration, whereas the current post-election atmosphere across Maharashtra reflected widespread disillusionment and shock. Highlighting a sharp statistical anomaly, Thackeray questioned how Maharashtra's voter base swelled by an astonishing 40 to 60 lakh voters within a brief six-month window following the Lok Sabha elections. He termed the surge a deliberate attempt to compromise electoral integrity. Reminding opposition leaders of his warnings dating back to 2017-2018, Raj Thackeray noted that he had previously met senior leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, and Sharad Pawar, regarding EVM vulnerabilities and voter list discrepancies. He reiterated that a united boycott of elections remains the only definitive way to force transparency. Asserting that the SIR mechanism was being weaponised to disenfranchise legitimate citizens while injecting bogus entries into rolls, Raj Thackeray demanded an immediate halt to SIR and a return to paper ballots for future elections. SIR in the country is illegal. I have only two demands. First, the SIR conducted in Maharashtra must be scrapped. Second, all future elections must be conducted on ballot papers. This will ensure complete transparency, doodh ka doodh, paani ka paani, said Raj Thackeray. He further added, I request all political parties to go to Delhi and raise their voices. Tomorrow, whichever party comes to power... it doesn't matter. But power must be attained through legitimate and fair means, he remarked. In his speech, Uddhav Thackeray also led a blistering attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre for gaining control over various institutions and engineering splits in political parties. He strongly criticised CEC Gyanesh Kumar for the centralisation of power in the poll panel, saying that he needs to be removed. He questioned the immunity which CEC enjoys during his tenure and also after retirement. The joint march marks a significant recalibration in Maharashtras political landscape. By rallying together alongside MVA allies, the Thackeray cousins have successfully elevated electoral integrity to a central public debate.
Drishyam 3 Box Office Collection Day 2: Ajay Devgn Film Crosses Rs 100 Crore Mark
Drishyam 3: The Conclusion serves as the final installment of the Hindi Drishyam franchise
Police Raids in Ranchi Target Hotels and Bars, Arrest 14 Individuals
In Ranchi, police conducted raids on hotels and bars, arresting 14 people amid allegations of illegal activities and rule violations. Police Raids in Ranchi Target Hotels and Bars, Arrest 14 Individuals
Jharkhand Police raid hotels, bars in Ranchi over alleged irregularities; 14 detained
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Oct 4 (IANS) Police conducted simultaneous raids at several hotels and bars in Jharkhand capital Ranchi following complaints of alleged immoral activities and rampant violation of rules by bar and hotel operators. During the late Saturday night action at a hotel near Kachahari Chowk under the Kotwali police station area, police detained eight men and six women. Police suspect that some of those detained may have links to an alleged sex racket. The hotel management, employees and the detained men and women are being questioned as part of the investigation. According to police officials, the operation was conducted on the directions of Senior Superintendent of Police Rakesh Ranjan. Separate police teams led by City SP Paras Rana and Rural SP Gaurav Goswami carried out simultaneous inspections at several prominent hotels and bars across the city. Police said the main objective of the operation was to verify complaints regarding alleged violations of rules by hotel and bar operators. The complaints included operating without valid licences, keeping bars open beyond the permitted operating hours, serving hookah and allegedly providing alcohol to minors. During the inspections, police teams checked licences, documents related to the operation of the establishments and papers concerning security arrangements. Police claimed that at some establishments, operations were found to be continuing beyond the prescribed hours. The teams also reportedly found instances where alcohol and hookah were being served. Police are questioning the 14 people detained during the raid to establish the circumstances under which they had arrived at the hotel and to determine whether any illegal activity was taking place there. The hotel manager and employees are being questioned to gather information about the activities being conducted at the premises. Officials said the questioning and verification process is aimed at determining whether there were any violations of law or regulations. Police officials said establishments where violations are found during inspection will face action as per the law. In cases where serious irregularities are detected, action may also be initiated against the licences of the establishments concerned. The police said the investigation is ongoing and further action will be taken on the basis of the findings.
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Annual Report 2025-26 Part 2 : J&K Bank sets Rs 5 lakh crore business target by FY 2029-30
Srinagar, Oct 03: Jammu & Kashmir Bank has set an ambitious long-term roadmap to build a stronger, more resilient and future-ready institution, targeting a Rs 5 lakh crore business milestone and net profit of more than Rs 5,000 crore by financial year 2029-30. The targets form the centrepiece of the banks business strategy outlined in its Integrated Annual Report 2025-26, which was released during the Annual General Meeting of Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited on September 22. The bank has also set an objective of taking business per employee to Rs 40 crore by FY 2029-30, up from Rs 23.64 crore in FY 2025-26, signalling a sharp focus on productivity, operational efficiency and technology-driven banking. Articulating its long-term vision, the bank said it was aiming to create an institution capable of navigating changing economic conditions while sustaining growth and delivering enduring value to its stakeholders. Our vision for FY 2029-30 is to build a stronger, more resilient and future-ready institution, the bank said in its annual report, stressing that the roadmap would be driven by sustainable growth, disciplined execution, customer-centric innovation and technology-led transformation. The strategy comes as the bank seeks to strengthen its core franchise while expanding into new growth opportunities and reinforcing operational resilience. According to the report, the business strategy is anchored around four broad pillarssustainable growth, prudent risk management, superior customer experience and technology-led transformation. The bank plans to pursue a balanced growth model by strengthening its liability franchise, accelerating the expansion of quality credit and improving operational efficiency. At the same time, the lender has reiterated its developmental role in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, positioning financial inclusion and economic development alongside commercial growth. The Rs 5 lakh crore business target represents a significant scale-up ambition for the bank, with the strategy seeking to combine growth in deposits and advances with tighter risk controls and improved productivity. The annual report also places considerable emphasis on technology as a key enabler of the banks future growth. Customer-centric innovation and digital transformation are expected to support improved service delivery, operational efficiency and the banks ability to compete in an increasingly technology-driven financial sector. The bank said its approach would remain focused on disciplined execution rather than growth at any cost, with prudent risk management forming a central component of the strategy. The Rs 5,000 crore-plus net profit target by FY 2029-30 also reflects the banks ambition to translate expansion in its business franchise into stronger earnings and greater value for shareholders. The productivity target of Rs 40 crore business per employee, compared with Rs 23.64 crore in FY 2025-26, further underlines the emphasis on efficiency. The objective will require the bank to leverage technology, streamline processes and improve employee productivity as its business expands. The annual report said the overall strategy was designed not only to strengthen the banks financial position but also to create long-term value for stakeholders while supporting inclusive economic development in the markets it serves. With Jammu & Kashmir Bank occupying a distinctive position in the regional economy, the FY 2029-30 roadmap places the institution at a critical juncturebalancing its traditional franchise and developmental responsibilities with the need to modernise, scale up and build greater resilience. The bank said it remained committed to strengthening its core business, pursuing quality growth and building capabilities that would allow it to remain future-ready in a rapidly changing financial landscape.
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Rajasthan Panchayat polls 2026 to be held in 4 phases from October 23
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