Gang caught with MDMA worth more than Rs 15 lakh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A major drug trafficking gang has been arrested by the Thiruvananthapuram Rural Dansaf team on Friday. The four-member group was caught with 308 grams of MDMA, worth over `15 lakh in the market. The drugs were seized after two rounds of checking. Initially, 175 grams of MDMA was found hidden on one of the accused, a woman, during a body search. On further inspection, 133 grams more was found. The group had been under secret surveillance for some time. Those arrested are Shami, 32, from Chadayamangalam in Kollam, Muhammed Kalfan 24, Ashiq, 20, and Al Ameen, 23, all from Kaniyapuram. They were nabbed at Chenkavila near Pozhiyoor by the Dansaf team with the help of Pozhiyoor police. The car they were travelling in was also seized. The gang had brought the MDMA from Bengaluru. They were actively involved in drug trade across Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam The gang used rented cars and posed as families on leisure trips to smuggle drugs into Kerala. Small packets of MDMA were hidden in the womans dress. This method helped them avoid checks in other states. Rural District Police Chief K S Sudarshan received a tip-off that a group led by a woman was bringing drugs from Bengaluru. Following this, special police surveillance was set up along the state border. When the group saw the police, they tried to escape through a side road but were caught after a chase. This is a major racket, and we believe more individuals are involved. Further arrests are likely in the coming days. The group is understood to have been supplying drugs in areas including Technopark and Varkala. They have been under our surveillance for the past six months, said Sudarshan. The operation was led by a team including DYSP P K Pradeep of the Narcotics Cell, DYSP Chandradas of Neyyattinkara, Pooziyoor police inspector S P Sujith, Dansaf sub-inspectors F Fayas, Rasal Raj, B Dileep, Prem Kumar, Rajeevan, and police officers Aneesh, Arun, Riyas, Padmakumar, Sunilraj, and female police personnel Sajitha and Asha. Meanwhile, as part of Operation D-Hunt, 1,574 individuals were examined and 57 cases for possession of various narcotics were registered. As many as 59 people were arrested. Seizures during the operation included MDMA weighing 0.044 kg, 2.222 kg of cannabis and 36 cannabis beedis.

Global Mobility Conclave on Oct 7, to set benchmarks in overseas hiring

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA) in association with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will host the Global Mobility Conclave 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram on October 7 as it looks to set new benchmarks in ethical and innovative overseas recruitment. The one-day event, organised in collaboration with the Protector of Emigrants (Thiruvananthapuram & Cochin) at Hycinth Hotel, is expected to bring together voices from the government, international migration bodies, skill agencies and licensed recruitment agents to deliberate on the future of Indias global workforce. The conclave will focus on promoting ethical recruitment practices, exploring emerging global job markets, strengthening the role of recruitment agencies through a unified approach, encouraging use of technology in migrant safety and tracking, and facilitating partnerships between central, state and international stakeholders. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will deliver the inaugural address. Top officials from the MEA and senior officers from Kerala will attend. The conclave will be divided into five major session: Session 1 covering emerging global opportunities will have experts from the International Labour Organisation, International Organisation for Migration, ICMPD and GIZ decode new demand in international job markets. Session 2 will discuss about skilling the migrant, and explore how Kerala can build a future-ready migrant workforce, with inputs from ASAP Kerala, KASE, and ODEPC. Pathways to fair and transparent migration will be the topic for session 3. the panel will address safe migration tools, labour intelligence and migrant tracking systems. Session 4 will see recruitment agents and government officials engage in an open dialogue on strengthening the migration ecosystem. It will be moderated by Shashank Tripathi, Protector of Emigrants. The final session will present actionable takeaways, including a model code of practice for recruitment agencies and the launch of migration forecasting tools The event is expected to bring together voices from the government, international migration bodies, skill agencies and licensed recruitment agents to deliberate on the future of Indias global workforce

Kombans FC announce final squad for Super League, unveil jersey

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC have announced their full squad and coaching team for the Super League season 2. The line-up combines experienced international players with young domestic talent. The teams jersey was unveiled and handed over to franchise owner T J Mathew by former state police chief Jacob Punnoose at the event held on Friday. The team will be led by Head Coach James McAloon, supported by Assistant Coach Kali, Goalkeeping Coach Balaji Narasimhan and Strength and Conditioning Coach Fintan Lane. Lane, an Australian with coaching experience in Europe and the United States, was previously with Copenhagen Celtics in Denmark. In terms of our preparation, our team is prepared to win every game. I think, overall, season 1 was definitely a success and gave us the foundation for what we can build on. Tactically, we need to understand the other teams a little bit better, said the head coach. Brazilian midfielder Patrick Silva Mota will continue as captain. He will be supported by vice-captains Autemar Bispo, Bibin Boban and Salam Ranjan Singh. Bispo is a striker from Brazil, Boban is a Kerala native and National Games hero, and Singh is a former Indian international and ISL champion. The forward line-up includes Paulo Victor Lima Silva and Ronald Makalysten from Brazil, along with attackers Mohammed Shafi, Shihad Nelliparamban, Khalid Roshan and Vignesh Maria. Midfielders include Abdul Badish, Akshay P M, Ragav Gupta, Bibin Boban, Rohen Singh and Muhammed Ashar. The defence boasts of Brazilian players Lury de Carvalho Lima and Filipe Alves, along with Akhil J Chandran, Manoj M, Salam Ranjan Singh, Mohammed Sarif Khan, Shanid Valan, Mohamed Sanooth and Shinu R. Goalkeepers Sreeraj Rajeev, Satyajit Bordoloi and Aaryan Saroha will guard the post.

Kerala to expand Eco Banks as public response surges

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is planning to open more Eco Banks across Kerala following the positive public response to the initiative launched recently to facilitate proper disposal of inorganic and non-biodegradable waste. Currently, there are 14 Eco Banks, one each in every district. Now, the local self-government department (LSGD) has decided to establish a minimum of four centres in each district to ensure hassle free service to citizens. Since the Eco Banks initiative was rolled out, about 3 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste -- including e-waste, mattresses, footwear, bags, thermocol, cement sacks, and debris from weddings, house-shifting, and construction -- have been collected. The initiative is expected to make waste disposal more accessible for citizens, reduce illegal dumping, and strengthen the states ongoing waste management system. This is an innovative concept and the response has been good. We have just piloted the project and are getting a lot of enquiries for picking up waste, said G K Suresh Kumar, managing director of Clean Kerala Company Ltd (CKCL). At present, citizens are required to bring the collected waste themselves to the Resource Recovery Facility (RRF) in each district. However, the company has ruled out door-to-door pick-up services, citing cost concerns. We cannot go and collect the waste as it is not financially feasible. We cannot hire a vehicle spending `5,000 for lifting just 50kg of non-biodegradable waste. The public is always welcome, including on holidays, to hand over the waste. If there is a significant quantity we will definitely lift it, said Suresh. He pointed out that in some places, the response was not that good and hence, the department is planning to launch a comprehensive sensitisation campaign to popularise the initiative.

Man gets 67-year RI in Pocso case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram Additional District and Sessions Pocso court has sentenced Hassan Kutty, 45, also known as Kabeer, to 67 years of rigorous imprisonment in the case where a two-year-old girl was kidnapped and raped. A fine of `12 lakh has also been imposed. Hassan Kutty had been accused in a Pocso case earlier too. The incident happened on February 19, 2024. The girl was sleeping on the roadside near Chackai with her parents, who had come to Kerala from Hyderabad to sell honey, when Hasan Kutty, a native of Edava in Varkala, abducted her. He took her to a deserted area behind BrahMos Aerospace and raped her. Believing she had died, he abandoned her and fled the scene. After the child went missing, her parents filed a complaint. Police investigation located the child the next evening around 7.30 pm, in an unconscious state, near the BrahMos compound wall. She was rushed to a hospital and her life was saved. Hassan Kutty was arrested from Kollam on the 13th day after the incident.

TJS lived his journey to the fullest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: I feel you dont want to be old. You want to be active until the last minute both in mind and body. Entrepreneurship is a mental illness and you suffer from it, wrote writer and journalist M P Narayana Pillai in the foreword to Ghoshayathra, T J S Georges memoir. Pillais words proved prophetic. According to his brother T J Mathew, TJS was active until he was hospitalised in Bengaluru. His spirits were down after wifes demise. Still, he was active in his own way, he said. Mathew spent two days at the hospital before returning to Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. Im the only surviving sibling and he was visibly happy when I met him. Glad that you came, he said, pressing my hand, Mathew recalled. He didnt talk much. Whenever he did, he spoke with usual clarity, with the sense of humour intact. On a lighter vein, he said he felt very comfortable there and would miss the hospital when discharged, he said. The last time TJS visited Mathews house was three years ago, when he arrived in the Kerala capital to receive the Swadeshabhimani-Kesari award. He visited my home as well. He never misses the opportunity when he comes to Kerala, Mathew said, adding that his brother left this world after living a full life. According to M K Das, a former resident editor of The New Indian Express and his long-time colleague, TJS was an encyclopaedia on newspaper publishing. Besides being one of the finest writers, he had intimate knowledge on every aspect of bringing out a newspaper from printing technology to stylesheet, layout, and language, he said. TJS stood out for his independent, courageous journalism, Das pointed out. He aired his opinion courageously, unmindful of the consequences. Be it Narendra Modi or Sonia Gandhi, he never minced words, he said. Writer Prabha Varma remembered TJS as a person of global stature. There is none like him. He would speak and write on politics, literature, and many other topics authentically. I had a long chat with him when he was in Thiruvananthapuram to receive the Swadeshabhimani award. Once again, I was thoroughly impressed, Varma said. Commitment and ethics were TJS hallmarks, Varma added.

Jamaats drive on Maududi proof Satheesan is wrong: CPM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM state secretary M V Govindan has said the decision of Solidarity Youth Movement, the youth wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, to propagate ideologies of Abdul Ala Maududi, who propagated theocratic nationalism and Sheikh Qaradawi, who is seen as close to Muslim Brotherhood, proves V D Satheesans claims are not true. When there was criticism against Congress- UDF for aligning openly with Jamaat-e- Islami, Satheesan justified the relations with religious extremists and claimed that they had moved away from theocratic nationalism. Now their false propaganda has been revealed. With the programme in Malappuram, Jamaat has started its campaign to propagate both Maududis and Qaradawis ideology in Kerala. This is a political idea based on Islamic nationalism, Govindan told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram. The CPM state secretary said both RSS and Jamaat are the two sides of the same coin. In this situation efforts should be made to strengthen the campaign against these forces among the people belonging to both majority and minority communities, Govindan said.

Theatre movie team honours women with #UnwrittenByHer campaign

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of the theatrical release of the movie Theatre: The Myth of Reality, produced by Anjana Philip under the banner of Anjana Talkies and directed by Sajin Baabu, a campaign titled #UnwrittenByHer was launched to honour women who carved unconventional paths and created unique spaces for themselves in society. Minister for Fisheries, Culture & Youth Affairs Saji Cherian was the chief guest at the event held in the city on Friday, alongside the cast and crew of the film. The achievers who were honoured included Radhamani Amma, the 73-year-old licence holder of 11 different types of vehicles including heavy machinery; Arya Rajendran, Indias youngest Mayor; G S Roshni, Beat Forest Officer and Keralas only woman snake rescuer, who has saved over 800 snakes including an 18-foot king cobra; Sruthy Sithara, Miss Trans Global 2021; and members of the Haritha Karma Sena. The films trailer, first unveiled earlier at the Cannes Film Festival, was launched at the event. The film is set to release in theatres across India on October 16. Rima Kallingal, who plays the lead, and other cast and crew members of the film were also present in the event. The movie is set to have its World Premiere on October 7th at the IX Yalta International Film Festival. It will also be screened at the Kazan Film Festival, Russia, and has earned selections at TIME International Film Festival and CinV-CHD International Film Festival. Earlier, the film won the Best Actress Award and the Special Jury Award at the 48th Kerala Film Critics Awards.

Gold plating row: TDB feels heat as new documents surface

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Pushed to a corner after its vigilance wing recovered documents revealing gross irregularities and mismanagement in the gold covering of the sanctum at Sabarimala temple, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has decided to approach the High Court seeking a comprehensive investigation under its supervision into the entire episode since 1999. As per uncovered documents, the dwarapalaka idols were among the properties that were layered with gold in 1999. However, when the plates covering the idols were sent for maintenance in 2019, the entries in the register did not mention any gold. They say 14 copper panels were sent for repair. The records showed that 30.3 kg of gold were used for gold covering the sanctum, including the dwarapalaka idols, roof, steps and certain portions of the wall in 1999. The gold plating was sponsored by businessman Vijay Mallya. In 2019, the documents say, 14 panels which covered the dwarapalaka idols in front of the sanctum were sent for maintenance in Chennai. The maintenance was sponsored by priest-turned-businessman Unnikrishnan Potti, the central figure in the current controversy. The Chennai-based company, which did the repair work, said recently that it received pure copper panels for gold plating. Moreover, the 14 panels weighed 42 kg at the time of handover. But at the time of return, the weight was 38 kg. Another startling find by the vigilance was that the panels were in the possession of Potti for a considerable period 30 days after the formal handover by the TDB. He is also accused of illegally displaying and performing pooja on the panels in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He publicly conducted poojas at the Srirampura Temple in Bengaluru and the Chennai-based company where they were repaired. Attended pooja on Pottis invitation: Jayaram Actor Jayaram on Friday told reporters that he had attended the pooja held at the company on Pottis invitation. On his request, Potti had brought some panels to his residence for him to worship, the actor said. While the TDB blames Potti for the fiasco, it has exposed serious failings on its part as well. The records and revelations have shown that TDB officials involved in the 2019 maintenance entrusted valuable temple property with the new sponsor and did not monitor activities. The public display and poojas conducted by Potti at Bengaluru and Chennai are serious violations of temple rules and customs. In 2025, too, TDB entrusted Potti with the maintenance of the gold plates of dwarapalaka idols. According to the present board, it had no other option as the 40-year-warranty for the 2019 gold plating was in the name of Potti. But this time, the TDB rejected Pottis offer for transporting the panels on his own. Instead it was transported to Chennai under the direct supervision of boards Thiruvabharanam commissioner, other officers and armed guards. Though the TDB has not officially responded to the revelations on Pottis misuse of temple property, its president P S Prasanth told reporters that it would seek an HC-monitored thorough probe into the events since the gold covering of the sanctum in 1999. Gold work over years 1999: The sanctum, its roofing, steps and the two dwarapalaka idols were gold-covered under the sponsor-ship of businessman Vijay Mallya. A total of 30.3 kg gold was used. 2019: 14 panels covering the dwarapalaka idols were sent to a Chennai-based company for refurbishment. It was sponsored by Unnikrishnan Potty, who received 42 kg of material in total. The panels he returned weighed only 38 kg. 397g of gold was used for the process 2025: 12 panels covering the dwarapalaka idols sent for maintenance to the same company where work was done in 2019. An additional 10g of gold was used for the process. The maintenance was done through Potty under the supervision of boards officers

Kerala govt to use Sampoorna Plus to check attendance progress of ST students

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The government has issued a directive to schools to ensure regular classroom attendance and periodic monitoring of the academic progress of Scheduled Tribe (ST) students. In a circular, the director of general education also directed the schools to use the Sampoorna Plus mobile app and portal, developed by the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) for the purpose. The move aims to ensure the presence of ST students in school and accelerate their educational advancement. The decision was taken based on the outcomes of the meeting of the state-level coordination committee on improving the academic standards of ST students. There are 65,091 ST students in the state from Classes 1 to 10, with 39,141 children in government schools and 25,950 children in aided schools. KITE has issued instructions and a user manual regarding the use of the Sampoorna Plus mobile app and portal.

TJS and the birth of 'Samakalika Malayalam Varika': How a master editor built a weekly from scratch

KOCHI: TJS George never believed in letting talent go to waste. When writer S Jayachandran Nair walked out of the then-popular literary and cultural weekly Kala Kaumudi , TJS saw an opening that would change the course of Malayalam journalism. At the urging of his close friend and writer M P Narayana Pillai known affectionately as 'Nanappan' TJS moved quickly. Pillai had written to him, insisting, We should not allow Jayachandran to lie idle. His calibre as editor and writer must be used. Together, the two men persuaded Jayachandran Nair to take charge of a brand-new weekly out of Thiruvananthapuram. Thus was born Samakalika Malayalam Varika on May 16, 1997, launched as a sister publication of The New Indian Express . Jayachandran came on board with a promise: he would bring to Varika the best voices of Kala Kaumudi . He delivered, persuading artist Namboothiri, literary critic M. Krishnan Nair, with his cult column Sahitya Varaphalam, and calligrapher Narayana Bhattathiri to cross over. With that single stroke, Varika arrived fully armed a cultural powerhouse under Jayachandrans stewardship from 1997 to 2012. TJS, who gave him a free hand to run the magazine, contributed his own unforgettable essay, Ghosha Yatra (Procession). That work, later included in his autobiography of the same name, won him the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 2009. Legendary journalist and author TJS George passes away at 97 TJS himself was no stranger to launching publications. Years before, he had founded Asiaweek in Hong Kong, setting a benchmark for Asian journalism. In a telling gesture, all the issues of Asiaweek from his editorship have been donated to the EMS Cooperative Library in Ernakulam, preserving a slice of Asian media history for future generations. When Varika celebrated its 25th year, TJS recalled that the weeklys launch had coincided with another milestone: the start of his Point of View column in The New Indian Express . After contributing over 1,300 essays across a quarter-century, he bid farewell in June 2022 with a final piece titled Now is the Time to Say Goodbye. The readers may have gotten tired reading my piece, he quipped to editor Saji James, before quietly bowing out. TJS, who passed away in Bengaluru on Friday at 97, leaves behind more than books and columns. He leaves behind institutions publications like Samakalika Malayalam Varika that grew out of his instinct to spot talent and his belief in the power of editorial conviction. A chronicler of his times who never hesitated to call a spade a spade: Memories of TJS

A chronicler of his times who never hesitated to call a spade a spade: Memories of TJS

Pinarayi Vijayan may never have forgotten the cryptic yet acidic remark in a column in The New Indian Express that termed him 'probably the last Communist Chief Minister of Kerala'. Yet, in all likelihood, the Communist veteran might have forgiven its creator for the quip . For the man in question was, more than anything else, a true-blood journalist and chronicler of the times that he lived in, so much so that even such a cryptic observation was sure to make its way into the annals of history. And he harboured no ill-intention too. Veteran author and noted columnist TJS George, who passed away at the age of 97 on Friday , never hesitated to call a spade a spade. And whenever he felt his views needed a fresh perspective, he never hesitated to do so. The same TJS, who was once a huge critic of Pinarayi, later went on at length on the latter's statesmanship, diplomatic sense, and farsightedness regarding Kerala's development and innovative initiatives. I was sceptical, not just a bit, but sceptical to the core, when I got an invite from the Kerala government for the Loka Kerala Sabha. As you know, there were no dearth of controversies and speculations at the time. I was naturally very cautious and observant, when I went there. But sitting there for the whole day turned out to be a different experience. I really liked the manner in which the government was trying to connect with Malayalis across the globe. A truly innovative idea. It could well turn out to be a wide network for aiding Kerala's development, he said. Standing in the portico of our Thiruvananthapuram office and sharing those titbits from his day-long event with me and another colleague, TJS was visibly excited. We had actually gone to see him off after his short visit to the office at around 7.30 pm. But he continued to talk, standing there. I know it's busy hours for us, and I am disturbing our own schedule, he quipped, with a twinkle in his eyes. Even as the chauffeur waited with the car door held half-open, he went on and on. The year was 2018. It was the same TJS who unleashed a scathing attack on Pinarayi -- not long after he took over as Chief Minister for the first time -- for his seemingly non-Leftist posturings on a couple of issues. I still remember what a senior colleague shared with me after a meeting with the CM, 'I read the column. The Last Communist Chief Minister, huh,' was how Pinarayi reportedly retorted. Umpteen were the occasions, when people like me too got a wee bit of credit for being part of the same brand as TJS. Probably the funniest among them involved a colleague of mine more than two decades ago, when we were starting off as mere cub reporters. He shared the same name as TJS and would attend a flurry of phone calls from readers on the office landline, on the day after TJS' regular column appeared in the newspaper. Thrilled and brimming with pride, he would attend each call, as the reader at the other end, elated over being able to speak to the 'columnist' himself, kept showering him with praises for the article. And when at the end he would reveal that he was not TJS, the disappointment was palpable. In fact, I had even shared this with TJS himself once, drawing a surprised chuckle from him. I was lucky enough to interact with him at close quarters on quite a few occasions. I had heard that TJS avoided conversations over mobile phones but he was curiously not reluctant to speak to me over the mobile, not once or twice, but on more than a few occasions. On one occasion almost a decade ago, after hesitating for a long time, I called him up late in the night to cross-check a correction. A senior colleague had sent an article and asked me to have it read by TJS who was in the state capital for some event. I promptly went and met him and handed over the copy. He returned it after sometime with some minor correction marked with a pencil, which I dutifully forwarded. A few minutes later came a query -- what did he say about this portion? There was no remark. It was close to the deadline. Waking up an octogenarian to clarify a doubt was obviously unpardonable. But the newspaper cannot wait. I rang him up. His wife picked up the call. I mustered the courage to convey why I had called so late. She passed the phone to him. Sir, there was no remark, no correction. That's why I called, I said. Why? There's no correction. It's a good piece. That's all! he responded. A chronicler of his times, not just politics but even the socio-cultural realms, TJS made sure each of his ' Point of View ' columns was packed with a clear perspective. It was a repository of journalistic wisdom from a veteran who had seen it all -- that too from close quarters. He never shied away from questioning the powers that be. Not mentioning his Malayalam work would be a crime. Ghoshayathra , his magnum opus in the language, would undoubtedly put to shame any native Malayalam non-fiction writer for its wide canvas, true insights, rare pieces of wisdom and inherent humour. Adieu sir! Legendary journalist and author TJS George passes away at 97 Kerala polls: Pinarayi is about to break a record

Man sentenced to 67-year rigorous imprisonment for kidnapping, raping child of pavement-dwelling family

A fine of 72,000 slapped on convict.On Feb. 19, 2024, her spirited the child away from her parents sleeping in a plastic tent by a road in Thiruvananthapuram. Court hails Civil Police Officer Janosh for persevering with the search and tracing the child.

India Emerging As Global Destination For Cost-Effective Quality Healthcare: Dr Jitendra

NEW DELHI, Oct 3 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Friday hailed the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) Thiruvananthapuram for producing high-quality medical devices at affordable prices and called for scaling up production and expanding awareness of these indigenous innovations. The Minister said, India holds the [] The post India Emerging As Global Destination For Cost-Effective Quality Healthcare: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Goodluck India signs tripartite agreement to bid for DRDOs aircraft programme

It has signed the agreement with BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (BATL) and Axiscades Technologies

Goodluck India signs tripartite agreement to bid for DRDO's aircraft programme

Goodluck India announced a tripartite agreement to bid for DRDO's advanced medium combat aircraft program. The company partnered with BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited and Axiscades Technologies. This initiative supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat goal for indigenous defence capabilities. The program seeks a fifth-generation stealth aircraft. Goodluck Defence also secured a license to manufacture medium-calibre artillery shells.

Concrete slab falls in Nedumangad district hospital, injures one

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A woman suffered injuries after a concrete slab fell from the roof of the Nedumangad District Hospital building on Thursday. The injured, relative of a patient, has been identified as Naufiya Noushad, (21). The incident happened while she was waiting with her relative to consult a doctor at the PMR section. The slab reportedly fell on her left arm and the back of her shoulder. Naufiya was admitted to the hospital soon. When an X-ray was required, the hospitals machine was found to be non-functional, and the test had to be conducted at a private facility. The hospital authorities later refunded the Rs 700 that was spent on the X-ray. Following the incident, the PMR OP section was shifted to the skin OP section.

Congress in a fix as Jamaat arm readies to back theocratic state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Just three months after Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan endorsed Jamaat-e-Islamis ideological climbdown from its calls for the creation of an Islamic theocratic state, the outfits youth wing the Solidarity Youth Movement is launching a campaign to familiarise people with the ideals of Abdul Ala Maududi, the founder and ideologue of its parent organisation. The Malappuram district committee of Solidarity is organising a debate on Sayyid Maududi and Sheikh Qaradawi: Islamic political thought and development on October 3. Maududi propagated political Islam and theocratic nationalism while Yousaf al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian Islamic scholar, is widely viewed close to the Muslim Brotherhood. The Jamaat-e-Islami, of late, has been closely associated with the Congress-led UDF. It had extended support to the Opposition front in recent elections, and the bonhomie its political wing, the Welfare Party, shares with the Congress is no secret. With the state set to witness two crucial elections over the next few months, the Jamaats move has placed the Congress, which is getting increasingly estranged from influential Hindu groups like the NSS and the SNDP over alleged minority appeasement, on a sticky wicket. Jamaat intruding into Muslim society via IUML During campaigning for the Nilambur byelection, Satheesan had defended the UDFs ties with the Jamaat, saying it had moved away from the ideology of theocratic nationalism, prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to quip that Congress was trying to repackage Jamaat and its ideals. Congress leaders are tight lipped on the current development. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said he did not wish to respond. I dont know about this programme and have not studied it, he told TNIE. The IUML, a key player in the UDF, is watching Jamaats move very cautiously. The Left has been accusing the League of harbouring Jamaats extremist positions and helping it grow. The League has no connection with Jamaat-e-Islami and we do not subscribe to Maududism, IUML general secretary PMA Salam said. Meanwhile, Jamaat leadership believes a public debate on the ideals of its founder would further its bargaining potential with the UDF in the coming local body and assembly elections. We consider Maududi a renaissance leader of India. This is a programme to introduce his thoughts to the public. Discussions are held on the musings of E M S Namboodiripad and B R Ambedkar. Let people know who Maududi is, Solidarity state president Thoufeeq Mampad said. We want to discuss Maududis idea of Islamic theocratic nation, he added. In a social media post, Solidarity secretary T Ismayil said, This programme is a blow to the Sangh parivar - secular psyche which thinks that it has achieved complete success in casting Maududi as a villain. Left leaders underscored the timing of the event, as it does coincide with the centenary celebrations of the RSS. It seems they aim to propagate the idea of an Islamic nation, countering RSS Akhanda Hindu Rashtra, K T Jaleel MLA said. If Maududi did not want to form an Islamic theocratic nation, then why did he go to Pakistan despite being born in India? The Jamaat is cannily intruding into Muslim society through the IUML, and the UDF is providing tacit support. Ordinary Muslims know that Maududism could create divisions. Ultimately, Jamaat may eat up the League, he added.

Cops shut down fast food joints on key city stretches

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The capitals thriving street food culture, which has become a key part of nightlife in areas such as Sasthamangalam, Vellayambalam and Vazhuthacaud, is facing curbs and eviction following intervention by the police. There are over 100 food joints, including trucks and makeshift stalls, operating along these stretches serving budget-friendly meals for the public. Despite repeated demands, the city corporation has failed to designate street vending zones in the capital. According to officials, unauthorised food operators are mushrooming in the streets of the capital because of lack of enforcement. Food prices in restaurants are skyrocketing and these street food vendors offer budget-friendly meals for the public, especially for students and youngsters. Instead of shutting down food trucks and joints, they should allow them to operate. Most of the days we depend on these outlets for dining, said Vinod K, who works at a private firm. According to Museum police, they have shut down all street food outlets on the Vellayambalam-Sasthamangalam stretch. We have served more notices to food vendors in the Edappazhinji-Vazhuthacaud stretch. We took action following instruction from our higher authorities. There have been plenty of complaints regarding encroachment of roads and pathways by these food vendors, said the official. The street vendors who have invested lakhs on these food trucks have landed in deep trouble and are hoping for positive intervention from the state government. Shahul Hameed, district president of the Food Truck Owners Samiti, said that they have decided to take it up with the Chief Minister. Hundreds of people are working in this segment and they all are out of work because of this action from the police. The government has always taken a stand to protect the street vendors. We will be taking up this matter with the chief ministers office and hoping that we will be able to resume operations immediately, said Shahul Hameed. He said that the residents associations who are raising these complaints dont care about the livelihood of hundreds of people. MLA V K Prasanth said that street food vendors encroaching public roads cannot be entertained in every stretch in the capital. We have discussed this issue in the recent district development committee and unchecked vending is not ideal for the capital. Many youngsters are venturing into this business without getting license or registration. There should be some kind of regulation, said V K Prasanth. He said that the city corporation has identified 125 vending zones in many parts of the capital. The town vending committee at the corporation will soon take necessary action and shift all authorised vendors to designated zones and free up the streets, he added.

Thousands of children step into the world of letters

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thousands of children made their first step into the world of knowledge and arts in the capital city on Vidyarambham day. The Vijayadashami celebrations, held in various parts of Thiruvananthapuram, saw toddlers write their first letters, some with tears, and some with wide smiles. Over 1,000 students participated in the ceremony at the Saraswathi Devi Temple at Poojappura, the most significant Vidyarambham centre in the district. The curious kids were taken to the new world by an eminent group of nearly 50 gurus, including MLA Chandy Oommen, former speaker M Vijayakumar, ex-minister V S Sivakumar, former MP A Sampath, and retired IAS officer Biju Prabhakar. The writing ceremony was followed by the introduction of children into music and dance at the Saraswathi Mandapam. Governor Rajendra Arlekar took part in the Vidyarambham programmes held at the Raj Bhavan. Nine children under the Kerala State Council for Child Welfare wrote down their first letters with their hands guided by General Education Minister V Sivankutty. The Thunchan Smaraka Smrithi at Iranimuttom saw nearly 700 children taking baby steps into the world of learning and drawing, under the guidance of their gurus, including writer T G Ramachandran Pillai, and artists Karakkamadapam Vijayakumar and Kattoor Narayana Pillai. At Vyloppilli Samskriti Bhavan, 25 students took part in the Vidyarambham ceremony, including basic dance lessons taught by classical dancer Rajasree Warrier. Another major centre, the Attukal Devi Temple, saw over 750 children being initiated to education, under the guidance of temple priests. Personalities including poet V Madhusoodanan Nair, Justice K P Balachandran, and science scholar Dr Achuthsankar S guided the hands of nearly 300 children at the Karikkakom Sree Chamundeswari Temple.

Governor flags off 6th Fit India Freedom Run

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar flagged off the sixth edition of the Fit India Freedom Run, organised by the Sports Authority of India (SAI LNCPE), Thiruvananthapuram, on Thursday. Marking the occasion of Gandhi Jayanthi, the programme celebrated the twin ideals of Swachchhta and Swasthya (cleanliness and health), as over 700 runners, including students, athletes, coaches, officials, and SAI staff, lined up at the Kowdiar Square. The 5-km run concluded at the Central Stadium. Former speaker M Vijayakumar and SAI LNCPE principal G Kishore attended the flagging-off ceremony, while former World Boxing Champion and Dhyan Chand Awardee K C Latha, Kerala Olympic Association president V Sunil Kumar, among others, took part in the concluding event. The 2025 edition of the Fit India Run will include plog runs, cycling drives, and community fitness activities across the country, and will culminate with the Unity Run on October 31, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Air India urged to withdraw call to cancel flights to Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Pravasi Federation has urged Air India to immediately withdraw its reported decision to cancel around 50 flight services to Kerala starting October 26. In a statement, the organisations leadership expressed deep concern over the move, warning that it would severely affect connectivity for the Malayali diaspora in the Gulf countries, especially Kuwait. According to the federation, if the decision is implemented, there will be no direct Air India flights from Kuwait to Kerala, and services from other Gulf nations will also be drastically reduced. This is yet another blow to ordinary Malayalis who rely heavily on Air India for affordable travel, said Rajya Sabha MP and Pravasi Federation president P Santosh Kumar. We believe there is undue pressure from the Union government behind this move to make travelling difficult for expatriates. The organisation noted that the timing of the decision is particularly damaging, coming amid widespread protests over increased airfares.

Right to disconnect bill speaks for private employees

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Struggling due to a mundane professional life, with work hours way more than what is mentioned in your offer letter? Your problems may see a potential halt as a private bill, intended to improve work-life balance of private employees, is likely to be introduced in the current session of the state assembly. To be moved in the House by Chief Whip and Kanjirappally MLA Dr N Jayaraj, the proposed Kerala Right to Disconnect Bill attempts to resolve issues related to work overload in the private sector, which eats up peoples personal time. The bill proposes that any employee working in the private sector has the right to abstain from attending any online meetings, phone calls, e-mails, video conferences, or short messaging services, beyond their working hours mentioned in the agreement with the company. It also suggests that the employees should be safeguarded from potential disciplinary actions, including demotions and dismissals. The proposed bill can be exercised without overruling any existing law, it suggests. The bill proposes establishment of a Private Sector Employment Grievance Redressal Committee in each district, with the regional joint labour commissioner as its chairman, district labour officer as secretary and the deputy labour commissioner as a member all ex officio members. Landmark step towards securing staffs freedom These committees can seek reports from companies about their rules, look into a firms layoffs due to financial reasons, act upon complaints about overtime work, and delve into discussions for additional payment for overtime work. The bill also proposes that the panel can instruct the companies to set up counselling facilities for employees. Techies have wholeheartedly welcomed the bill and urged the government to introduce it in the assembly. Prathidhwani, the welfare organisation of IT employees across the state, posted on Facebook that the bill is a landmark step towards safeguarding the mental health, dignity and personal freedom of private sector employees in Kerala. It also appreciated the bills suggestion to set up grievance redressal committees in each district. Before Covid, the work culture was more relaxed, with everyone coming to the office and working on desktop systems. The pandemic led to a situation where firms started providing laptops, and thereby initiated the always-on work mode, said a professional. Meanwhile, former director general of prosecution T Asaf Ali said overcoming the legal hurdles for a private bill to become a law is a tedious process. The better option that can be sought is an additional remuneration for the additional time you do your work, he said. He said the draft bill will help bring the employees issues before the people, and highlight further actions that should be initiated by the cabinet.

Santhigiris sanyasa tradition nurtures self-realisation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former Union Minister V Muraleedharan said that the monastic tradition at Santhigiri Ashram reflects the vision of Navajyothisree Karunakara Guru, who upheld the relevance of sanyasa and Indian spiritual heritage as a path to self-realisation in society. He was speaking at the public meeting held at the ashram in connection with the 41st Sanyasa Deeksha Anniversary. Muraleedharan said that the Indian tradition considers a sanyasi as someone who works for the welfare of the world through knowledge and action. He noted that on Vijaya Dashami in 1984, the Guru initiated 31 individuals into sanyasa, including 21 women. This legacy continues with the initiation of 22 young women on the same day in 2022 by the Guru apparent. Muraleedharan added that the Gurus spiritual mission aimed to uplift the marginalised both materially and spiritually, forming part of a broader social awakening. The event was presided over by Ashram president Swami Chaitanya Jnana Tapaswi. Swami Gururethnam Jnana Tapaswi, Palayam Imam V P Suhaib Maulavi, and others attended the function. Photographer P C Rajeev was honoured at the event. A book titled Niveditham, based on the life of late Mohan Pampady and written by Anil Cherthala, was released.

More allegations surface ahead of Pottys interrogation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/ PATHANAMTHITTA: The controversy over the gold-plated copper panels at Sabarimala temple has taken a serious turn with the vigilance wing of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) summoning priest-turned-business man Unnikrishnan Potty for interrogation. Unnikrishnan Potty, who earlier worked as a temporary supporting priest (keezhsanthi) at the temple allegedly exploited his proximity to the shrine to raise funds for sponsoring development works at Sabarimala. According to sources, Potty will face a detailed interrogation on Saturday. A team led by Devaswom Vigilance SP Sunil Kumar will quiz him. The vigilance wing has reportedly unearthed details of multiple questionable transactions linked to him. The inquiry so far shows that Potty raised huge sums from Ayyappa devotees in Karnataka under the pretext of funding gold-plating of the sanctum sanctorum and sponsoring annadanam. He is also believed to have collected donations from devotees in other states, said a source. Investigators suspect that Potty had taken the gold-plated copper plaques to Bengaluru in 2019 as part of his fundraising drive. Allegations that he misused his claimed proximity to Sabarimala to seek funds from wealthy devotees in Karnataka had surfaced earlier as well. Fresh reports suggest that he attempted again in 2023 to remove the plaques for gold-plating, an effort now under Vigilance scrutiny. The possible role of a Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) official is also being examined. Potty is also accused of having taken the panels to Sri Ayyappan temple, Srirampuram in Bengaluru where he conducted poojas. There are allegations that he collected money from devotees there. The controversy gained traction after the High Court ordered a Vigilance probe, noting a discrepancy in plaque weight. The plaques weighed 42.8 kg when removed in 2019 but only 38.258 kg when presented to the contractor in 2025. TDB President P S Prashanth has admitted to lapses by officials in presenting accurate figures to the court. While stressing that the Board maintains precise records, including 467 kg of gold deposited with the RBI under the monetisation scheme, he conceded that records were not properly submitted, leading to confusion. Will convince HC, says Potty Meanwhile, Unnikrishnan Potty arrived at his house in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. He alleged that the media was trying to damage his reputation. He did not reveal whether he was summoned by the Vigilance wing adding that he will appear before it if required. Potty said he will submit documents in the High Court if asked. The court will decide whether Im right or wrong. The vigilance probe is on. I will give a reply when the findings of the probe are out, he said. Gold looted with TDBs knowledge Pathanamthitta: Launching a scathing attack on the state government and the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan on Thursday alleged that the gold-plated copper plaques at the Sabarimala temple were looted with the full knowledge of board members. What happened at Sabarimala was nothing but theft. The gold offered by devotees was plundered. Violating every rule, gold with a 40-year warranty were taken out after just 20 years, without even securing the HCs permission. When returned, the Boards own probe confirmed gold had gone missing. Instead of acting on it, successive boards and governments buried the inquiry report, he told reporters.

How a college gang from Kerala evolved into agents of change with Maatam

In 2022, a clutch of young architects took over an abandoned colonial-era building in Fort Kochi and filled it with life. There were stalls selling upcycled homeware, workshops on climate change, conversations about waste, and music drifting through crumbling walls. For two days, the old house was transformed into a free market for ideas. That was the launch of Maatam, a collective dedicated to sustainability. It was spearheaded by a group of friends fresh out of college, with a stubborn sense of possibility. We were 22 then, full of energy, recalls co-founder Visakha G Raj. We just wanted to reach people with sustainability. The seed for Maatam, however, had been sown much earlier. In 2019, Visakha spent six months interning in Bali. Tourism had brought about the single-use plastic menace there. We could see how quickly such a beautiful place could be ruined. It was something we had already gone through in Kerala, she says. The trip was a catalyst. Back home, she and her friends all students of the College of Architecture in Thiruvananthapuram began experimenting with recycling. A snap of the first Maatam festival held in Fort Kochi Their first venture, SopStore, looked at ways to turn plastic waste into furniture and decor. Backed by the Kerala Startup Mission, the research continues even today. But the young architects quickly realised that their biggest challenge was not technical, but cultural. The need for a platform to spark conversations thus became clear. Maatam, which means change, seeks to become one. It is at once a festival, a collective, and an evolving tribe of about 20 collaborators with a common aim: to connect sustainable vendors with customers, to raise awareness about climate change, and to reuse existing resources, including buildings left to rot. Lila Art Cafe experiment For its first fest, the group zeroed in on a locked colonial house right in the heart of Fort Kochis heritage zone. The owner, they learned, had nearly given up on it. She had an emotional connection to the place and didnt want to open it again after an earlier event failed, Visakha remembers. We explained our idea about curating an exhibition with sustainable vendors, and finally, she agreed. Over 35 vendors signed up. Workshops, talks, and music filled the programme. The venue itself, cleaned and lightly restored by the team, became central to the storytelling. Visitors walked through the space, encountering everything from recycled trophies to sustainable gifting options. The buildings true potential was out there for everyone to see and experience. Not long after this exhibition, it was transformed into what is now the Lila Art Cafe. A snap of the first Maatam festival held in Fort Kochi From flea market to hub Currently, Maatam is planning its next fest for early 2026, likely at the old GCD building on Marine Drive Road, a site which Visakha describes as a really great space, architecture-wise, but forgotten. Using forgotten spaces reinforces the idea of reusing existing resources, and not building something new for the sake of it, she says. Maatam is also preparing to anchor itself in a permanent community centre. The idea is to create a hub where sustainability becomes an everyday practice, not an occasional festival theme. Say, for example, you bring a bag of clothes, Visakha explains. We will guide you on ways in which it can be repurposed. There will be a multidisciplinary team: architects, environmentalists, and designers. Even for things like setting up a garden, you will find help here. Such a hub, she hopes, can connect dots between government, institutions, companies and the public.

Super League Kerala Season 2: Fans and promoters of Thiruvananthapuram Kombans Football Club are rooting for their team

As Thiruvananthapuram Kombans is all set for their first game on October 5, excitement has reached fever pitch

Three infants received in Ammathottil in Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha within a days time

Proposed BrahMos Thiruvananthapuram unit transfer in line with provisions laid out in March 2007 Kerala government order on transfer of KELTEC, says Defence Minister

Resolution to transfer BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Ltd is in accordance with the extant provisions laid out in a Government of Kerala order dated March 22, 2007, says Rajnath Singh

Kerala CPI state council forms new secretariat, elects assistant secretaries

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPI state leadership has decided to make the party state secretariat the apex body of the party's state structure. The CPI state council, which met here on Wednesday, also elected Satyan Mokeri and PP Suneer as assistant secretaries to support state secretary Binoy Viswam. Until now, the state executive and state council were the top decision-making bodies of the CPI. Although the state secretariat had been incorporated earlier as the apex unit of the party, after Kanam Rajendran took over as state secretary, the state conference decided to abolish the three-tier system. The state council also elected an 11-member secretariat and a 25-member executive. Binoy Viswam, PP Suneer, Satyan Mokeri, K Rajan, P Prasad, GR Anil, J Chinju Rani, R Rajendran, KK Valsaraj, KK Ashraf, and KP Sureshraj are the members of the newly formed secretariat. Former minister VS Sunil Kumar, TJ Anchalose, TT Jismon, and R Latha Devi are also included in the state executive.

A festival where art barriers get broken

The faint yet serene light from the lamps that illuminate the old-world charm of the Navaratri Mandapam at Padmanabhaswamy temple can be misleading. Surrounded by that antique magic, one feels the space is tucked away in yesteryears, seemingly untouched by time. But change has found its way in. From the introduction of instrumental music in the early 20th century to 1996, when women were permitted to sing at the prestigious forum dating back to the Swathi Thirunal period, the Navaratri Mandapam has moved with the times. Open to the public during the nine days of festivities, it continues to showcase the finest music talents from across the country. This year, too, the Mandapam had concerts destined to go down in history. On Tuesday, the first recital of the series was by T V Gopalakrishnan, who, at 94, is considered the oldest artist ever to perform at the hallowed venue. The veteran from Tripunithura is a revered guru, having mentored stalwarts including Ilaiyaraaja and A R Rahman. A composer with several pioneering works, he remains low-key despite accolades that include the Kalaimamani title, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Bhushan. It is a great honour for me to be performing here for Navaratri, says the maestro. I opened the concert with Devi Jagajanani in Raga Shankarabharanam, as per the schedule for the festival drawn up by Swathi Thirunal. I also sang a few Hindustani songs composed by the monarch-composer, whose works are traditionally rendered at the Mandapam during the nine days. TV Gopalakrishnan Known simply as TVG in Carnatic circles, he hopes to return for more. I am still learning. There are many rare krithis that need to be made popular. I also want to reach out to the music lovers of the West with our music, which is nuanced in a surreal manner, says the artist, who has collaborated with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Ravi Shankar and Ustad Alla Rakha, taking fusion music to great heights. In sharp contrast to the oldest performer, the Mandapam also saw its youngest female artist yet: Charulata Chandrasekhar, a 19-year-old veena player who shared the stage with her grandmother, R S Jayalakshmi, on Thursday. A performer since the age of nine, Charulata calls the opportunity a blessing. Its such a traditional stage, which opened up to women only in recent years. To be able to perform there this young is god-sent, says Charulata, who has already done about 600 recitals. Charulata Chandrasekhar (right) with her grandmother R S Jayalakshmi The veena is quite intricate in its musical structure and rendition. It was handed down through generations and I want to take the legacy forward. Inclusivity in performances is not confined to the Navaratri Mandapam. Across the capital, known for its rich spread of Navaratri art events, this openness is palpable. At Saraswathi Mandapam in Poojappura, performances start as early as 6.30 am and go on till late at night. This year, the organisers introduced a separate venue, Aarkum Padaam, where anyone can sing. The main stage, however, remains the 200-year-old Swathi Mandapam, where both veterans and budding artists perform. On the opening day, the stage witnessed a poignant recital by Kanmani S, a 22-year-old music graduate from the Swathi Thirunal College of Music, who was born without hands. Kanmani S She opened with fine compositions including Devi Jagajanani in Raga Shankarabharanam, proving that passion and perseverance can shatter physical barriers. I was born this way, but to me it is my biggest plus. My mother initiated me into music when I was young and since then, I have been encouraged to pursue the passion. I hope to do my PG and PhD in music, and then take up music academically, she says. The spirit of diversity and inclusivity extends beyond the popular venues. This year, the Sammohan 2025 festival came to the capital on September 27. The two-day fest featured 300 artists, each of whom had overcome disabilities to embrace art. Korok Biswas Among them is 22-year-old Korok Biswas, who calls himself a self-advocate of art. A Gaudiya dancer from Bengal with rigorous training in Bharatanatyam under Dr Arkadev Bhattacharya at Kerala Kalamandalam, he takes a rural project of the Ramakrishna Mission to people, spreading awareness that barriers can be overcome with will and aspiration. At Sammohan, to be held at Magic Planet in Thiruvananthapuram, he performed both gaudiya and bharatanatyam, says his father Kallol, proud that his son is arguably Indias first classical dancer with Downs Syndrome to have gained national and international recognition. Joining him is 25-year-old Megha Chowdhury, a disciple of Hindustani maestro Pandit Ajoy Chakraborty. She sang Rabindra Sangeet, for which she has received training. And since it is Navaratri, she opened with a Saraswati Vandana, says her mother Archana. Megha, who is autistic, began talking late, but music as therapy transformed her journey. Training at Ajoy Chakrabortys Shrutinandan School gave her further grounding. A state awardee, Meghas rendition was a mix of classical and semi-classical, reflecting the inclusivity that has allowed her aspirations to take flight. Megha Chowdhury Sreemayi and her friends at Poojappura Saraswathi Mandapam. Inclusivity has also found expression off stage. At several venues, Sreemayi S and her team were seen immersed in bharatanatyam performances. We are to have our arangettam two months from now, says Sreemayi, a transwoman who volunteers with the District Legal Services Authority and works with the Transgender Justice Board. She and 10 other transwomen have been training under guru Gayathri Subramanian. I always wanted to learn the art form but it was costly when I was growing up. Then came the phases of gender identity and the surgery that made me who I wanted to be. Finally, the lessons began three years ago when I was 32. Now, I am preparing for my debut on stage, and hope to perform a full classical repertoire in the seasons to come. Now, its time to observe the nuance and learn, she says with a smile, posing for a picture with her friends. True art can grow only when it has space for all. I am so happy that Navaratri here is evolving to incorporate that universal spirit.

Swirl & sway to dandiya beats

Khushi Patel remembers how, as a child, she would wait for those nine nights when her home and community would be ready to dive into Navaratri festivities. In every Gujarati home in Thiruvananthapuram, the colours of Navaratri would stand out. The elders would be on their fasts, and youngsters would be preparing for the gala event where they would get to swirl in their flowing lehengas to the spirited dandiya beats. We would wait for it throughout the year, says Khushi. The pomp has reduced, as many Gujarati families have returned to their home state for better business and professional prospects than Kerala. Yet, come Navaratri, dandiya is held religiously. We now hold it in rented halls. Earlier, it was at the Gujarati Samajs own auditorium at East Fort, which was closed down when the population dwindled. This time, it is being held at Avittam Thirunal community hall near Attukal temple, says Nandlal Patel, secretary of the Gujarati Samaj. Khushi, however, feels the festival scene is pepping up as many Gujaratis relocated to work at the Vizhinjam port. Also, the interest of Malayalis in the dance form is increasing. There are many places now where the dance is held during Navaratri, she says. Khushi had conducted a three-day workshop, teaching the nuances of the dance form. Legend is that the artform is a replica of the mythological battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. The dandiya sticks represent the sword of Durga. The dance also has a flow of joy (or ras), which is symbolically related to the dance of Krishna with gopis. Apart from the tales, the dance is enjoyed for the peppy elements it incorporates. Malayalis are finding it a fun way to shake a leg and bond over the community art form. Dandiya has gone public now. Many groups and even hotels are organising it this year, albeit with a DJ twist as opposed to the traditional way, says Priya Harikumar, founder of Firebirds, a women-centric infotainment group. Firebirds is also organising a dandiya night on October 1. We held it last year, too. And the response was huge. The night of dancing and dining will be for women and children. It is a fun way to celebrate the festival spirit and to bond, says Priya, who feels people are looking for avenues like this where they could let off their steam. Our group aims to help such women. The modernisation is also visible among the Gujarati community. It is still held religiously by people who are fasting. However, the choreographies now include popular dance moves. Social media has played a part in the transformation, Khushi observes. At Technopark-based IBS Software, employees were given tips on dandiya steps. It can help them break the ice faster and bond. Its a community-based dance, and now the venues hosting dandiya in the capital are increasing, says Khushi. This year, dandiya venues are open at hotels like O by Tamara, Cordial Sopanam, and Hyacinth. Some have even hyped up the event to include prizes for the best performance.

I would often mimic Carl Sagan...

Sound has long been the spice of cinema. Without it, the frames demand an evolved, almost intuitive, audience to grasp what is being conveyed. Sound, in all its evolutionary sense, can be king. Forget cinema, take cricket since its trending now. Remember how the likes of Geoffrey Boycott, Tony Greg, Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri elevated the thrill of matches through their commentaries? One neednt even watch the games to get a sense of the excitement. Harikrishnan S, however, did not realise this quiet power his baritone carried. Its subtle dignity shaped by his academic grounding and his keen interest in world affairs drew many in the infotainment space to him, though he himself was unaware of its full potential. A postgraduate in English literature, this Thiruvananthapuram residents voice journey began with a stint in the Gulf and later to a career in medical transcription. Unknowingly, these experiences honed the gift he possessed: a voice that could carry brands through ads, and now, documentaries. Winning the National Award for Best Voiceover came as a surprise, says Harikrishnan, who now joins an elite league of past winners from Kerala such as Nedumudi Venu, Prof. Aliyar, Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan and Balachandran Chullikkadu. Pleasantly surprised: Harikrishnan S Excerpts from an interaction: Did you expect such a recognition for The Sacred Jack? Never, not at this scale. It was extremely surprising. Voiceovers had become quite routine for me, often done for friends advertisement projects. The Sacred Jack, too, happened that way. I was stunned when a friend in Delhi called to inform me about the award. It took a while to sink in before I passed on the news to the director, R S Pradeep, who was then undergoing cancer treatment and is no longer with us. Were you always interested in voice art? Not at all. I never imagined my voice would even be noticed. I loved reading and the English language. A PG in literature deepened that. Later, work took me to the Gulf. It was on returning during the Covid period that I began to sense my voices possibilities. I had started a medical/legal transcription company. That gave me exposure to different kinds of voice and diction. The real focus, however, came when I began reciting poems online during the pandemic. Soon, some entrepreneur friends started asking me to do voiceovers for their ads. That eventually led to the collaboration with R S Pradeep. I worked with him first on the English version of his Munnam Valavu, which also had won a National Award (Best Environment Film). I helped him with the translation as well. Then, he called me again for The Sacred Jack. How did you prepare yourself? To be honest, I did nothing specific. I believe command over speech and pronunciation come naturally through reading and academic work. I have always been a documentary enthusiast be it the Films Division shorts on Doordarshan, BBC programmes, or Carl Sagans legendary Cosmos, which I adored for its gripping narration. I would often mimic him, experimenting with delivery. Desmond Morriss The Human Sexes was another favourite. Later, the internet gave me access to even more well-narrated documentaries. I admire Richard Dawkins too. Alongside, I freelanced for some media outlets. That also probably sharpened my diction and delivery subconsciously. So you are largely self-taught... Learning has always been part of me. I regularly follow socio-political discussions, watch interviews, and remain an avid reader. I also launched Insight Hunt, a YouTube channel for infotainment narratives. The foray into films, however, was almost accidental more consequence than intention. And perhaps thats how it should be: evolve naturally. How was it working on The Sacred Jack? The script was in Malayalam, so I had to translate it entirely into English. Narration then came easily, as I already knew the flow of the story. I am glad that narration was made central to the documentary. It was a rewarding experience. What are your upcoming projects? A few people approached me with projects after the award was announced. This includes my daughter, who works in advertising (laughs)! There are some film projects too. I regularly attend IDSFFK, where documentaries are thriving. On the personal front, I am now working on an audio project with my college teacher and poet Vijay Nair. How do you view the trend of podcasts and audiobooks gaining popularity? Podcasts are very much in vogue. Many people today prefer listening over reading. I too want to develop something in that space, perhaps expanding Insight Hunt to include interviews. In Kerala, podcasts often lack professionalism hosts often interrupt or impose opinions. Interviewers like Vir Sanghvi and Rajeev Mehrotra have shown how it should be done, giving respect and space to their guests. Thats the standard I aspire to. So you think good times lie ahead for sound-based media, including radio Absolutely. All India Radio may be streamlining, but with timely innovation, it can regain vibrance. The charm of human voice is irreplaceable. But, of late, technology has been threatening to replace human tasks Well, AI tools may deliver precision in structure and grammar, but humans bring emotion. The power of a pause, the excitement of discovery, the calm of reflection these make a voiceover compelling. Can AI truly replicate that? Technology can, at best, complement talent, but it cannot replace the emotional essence of human sound. The Sacred Jack: Exploring the Tree of Wishes The documentary centres on a fruit that is arguably Keralas own. Ancient records indicate its cultivation in south India as early as 3,000 years ago. The Malayalam word for the fruit, chakka, gave rise to the Portuguese jaca, which in turn influenced the English word jackfruit. The Sacred Jack explores the fruit tree in all its social and emotional relevance to the region, as well as its ecological importance. It opens with Prof. Madhusoodanan Nairs poem on the jackfruit and then shines a light on its significance in Keralas culinary culture. The documentary also highlights recent movements to promote the fruit and its derivatives, while underlining its potential as an ally in combating climate change. The National Award comes as a solace to the team behind the project, which faced a loss on August 15 when its director, the award-winning documentary filmmaker R S Pradeep, passed away after battling cancer. The team now hopes to release the documentary on OTT soon. Winners of National Award for Best Narration/Voicever 2003 (starting year) Balachandran Chullikkadu (The 18 Elephants 3 Monologues) 2004 Yang Yen Thaw (The Legend of Fat Mama) 2005 Ajay Raina (Wapsi) 2006 Nedumudi Venu (Minukku) 2007 Vani Subramanian (Ayodhya Gatha) 2008 Elangbam Natasha (Sana Keithel) 2009 Ranjan Palit (In Camera) 2010 Nilanjan Bhattacharya (Johar: Welcome to Our World) 2011 Ann Abraham (Just that Sort of a Day) 2012 Moni Bordoloi (Suranjana Deepali) 2013 Lipika Singh Darai (Kankee O Saapo) 2014 Ambooty (Anil Kumar) & Devi S (Nitya Kalyani Oru Mohiniyattam Patham) 2015 Harish Bhimani / Prof. Aliyar (Mala Laj Watat Nahai / Arangile Nithya Vismayam) 2016 Setsu Makino Togawa (Makino: An Indian Haiku) 2017 Francois Castellino (The Lion of Ladakh) 2018 Deepak Agnihotri & Urvija Upadhayay (Madhubani The Station of Colours) 2019 David Attenborough (Wild Karnataka) 2020 Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan (Rhapsody of Rains Monsoons of Kerala) 2021 Kulada Kumar Bhattacharjee (Hati Bondhu) 2022 Sumant Shinde (Murmurs of the Jungle) 2023 Harikrishnan S (The Sacred Jack Exploring the Tree of Wishes)

Anu Kalikals exhibition in Thiruvananthapuram captures her battle with mental health issues

The exhibition, Lines of Flight, is on till October 10 at Alliance Franaise de Trivandrum

Multi-level parking at MCH, East Fort by Oct 20

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With local body elections fast approaching, Thiruvananthapuram corporation is gearing up to open two major multi-level car parking (MLCP) facilities at Medical College Hospital and East Fort this month. The new MLCPs are expected to ease traffic congestion and parking woes in two of the busiest parts of the capital city. Works standing committee chairperson Medayil Vikraman told TNIE that both MLCPs will be inaugurated before October 20. The new parking facility at MCH has the capacity to accommodate around 202 cars at a time and will feature an automated design, similar to the multi-level car parking facility already operational at Palayam. Parking woes have always been a big problem in the capital and addressing it has been one of our key priorities. The MCH region is heavily congested and hundreds of vehicles arrive at the hospital and the surrounding areas. Parking is a major issue there and the opening of this MLCP will provide hassle-free parking for motorists and help reduce traffic congestion in the region, Vikraman said. The Putharikandam facility, located opposite the railway station, is expected to give commuters a huge relief as the development work on the station premises is causing a parking crisis in the region. Though the corporation has introduced MLCPs at its office premises and at Palayam, these have seen limited usage. An official with Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL) said the new parking facilities will have more users. It is learnt that one of the reasons for MLCPs not having many takers is the curb-side pay and park allowed by the corporation along the MG Road stretch. The multi-level car park at Putharikandam cost nearly Rs 20 crore while the one at MCH cost around Rs 17 crore. The two projects were conceived in 2016 under the Amrut Scheme. Later, they were transferred to SCTL.

Vehicle crash severely damages centuries-old pillar at Vadakkekotta

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A pillar at Vadakkekotta (North Fort) in Thiruvananthapuram, which stands just before the Government Taluk hospital here, was severely damaged after a vehicle crashed into it on Saturday. Maintained by the archaeological department, the pillar is at least 250 years old. The incident took place around 1.15 am when a trailer crashed into the pillar, said officials working with the archaeology department. They suspect that a possible deviation taken by the trailer due to the ongoing highway work lead to the crash. Local people mentioned that cracks visible on the top of the pillar were formed after the crash, a claim denied by the department. The basement of the pillar has nearly been displaced. It would only take a strong rain to cost people their lives here, said an autorickshaw driver. The owner of a tea shop nearby said that not many people have seen the vehicle as the crash took place past midnight. Three days into the incident, police officers still have not been able to trace the vehicle involved. We are checking the CCTV cameras in the locality, police officials said. An official from the archaeology department confirmed that if the weather remains positive, repair work of the pillar will begin this week after the Puja holidays. The first step will be dismantling the current pillar, as a namesake patchwork will not last in the long run. The department will then reconstruct it with materials like lime, which was used to build it originally. We will try to retain maximum portions of the original pillar, the departments conservation engineer said. When the accident took place, the department had been working towards the conservation of other forts in the premises, he said.

PwD quota in school postings: Kerala govt hits out against aided managements

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has hit out at a section of aided school managements that accused it of delaying approval of staff appointments citing implementation of a Supreme Court order on reservation for Persons with Disabilities (PwD). In a strongly worded statement, General Education Minister V Sivankutty urged the aided managements not to mislead the public on approval of appointments. The minister said the situation has arisen as aided managements have under-reported the vacancies earmarked for staff in the PwD category and warned of stern action against them. The government is implementing the Supreme Court order on PwD reservation. When the matter came up before court, the managements did not become party to the case nor express their views, Sivankutty said. In the place of over 5,000 vacancies for PwDs, only 1,500 have been reported. The government can only approve the appointment of PwD candidates by managements from the lists provided by various employment exchanges, Sivankutty said. The General Education Department will conduct an inquiry into the actual number of vacancies and the numbers recommended by the management.

Corporate control stifling journalistic voices: CM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A challenge to media freedom is a challenge against democracy and critical thinking, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday. He was speaking after the official inauguration of the International Media Festival of Kerala 2025 organised by the Kerala Media Academy at Tagore Theatre in the state capital. Pinarayi highlighted the mounting challenges faced by the media. Once, the media was regarded as a pillar of democracy. Now things have changed a lot. Critics of administrations are being booked under sedition, he said, citing the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh and the case against NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha as examples. The CM further pointed out that increasing corporate control over the media has stifled many journalistic voices. The CM presented the Media Person of the Year Award to Mariam Ouedraogo, the Indian Media Person of the Year award to Karan Thapar, and the Indian Media Person Award 2024 to Rajdeep Sardesai on the occasion. As a mark of solidarity with Palestine, a canvas roll bearing the signatures of the festival participants was handed over to the Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh. The CM also inaugurated the State InformationHub (Research and Reference, Social Media) of the Information and Public Relations Department on the Tagore Theatre premises.

MVD official gets notice for poor conduct of function

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Acting on the directive of Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar, the transport department has sought an explanation from Assistant Transport Commissioner V Joy over the poorly organised Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) event held on Monday. The minister expressed displeasure over the low turnout at the ceremony meant to launch 52 new vehicles for the MVD in Thiruvananthapuram. Prior to cancelling the event, he publicly declared that the official responsible would face disciplinary action. The issuance of a show-cause notice has reportedly deepened tensions between the minister and a section of officers, some of whom have voiced concerns over his approach. Meanwhile, the new vehicles, intended for the enforcement wing, have been relocated to the KSRTC premises at Anayara. Although the minister indicated that a new date for the flag-off would be announced, the MVD has yet to finalise the schedule. The minister was upset over the arrangement of the vehicles and the absence of senior MVD officials. Though it was a state-level event, there were no officials from other districts.

RSS to celebrate centenary with 1,622 public events in Kerala

KOCHI: Kicking off its centenary celebrations, the RSS will organise 1,622 public events and 1,423 pathasanchalans in Kerala on the occasion of Vijayadashami, on Wednesday and Thursday. The national-level celebrations will be held in Nagpur on Thursday, with former President Ram Nath Kovind to be the chief guest. Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat will deliver the keynote address. Former DGP Jacob Thomas, oncology surgeon Dr Chitrathara, mural artist Rajendran Kartha, Vadakara St Johns Jacobite Syrian Church Vicar Fr Paul Thomas, actor Rupesh Peethambaran, Chinmaya Viswa Vidyapeedam deputy dean Manjula R Aiyer, assistant commandant Surendranath Menon, and former customs commissioner K N Raghavan are among the dignitaries set to attend the RSS centenary celebrations in Ernakulam district on Wednesday. The RSS will organise 122 programmes across the district on the occasion of Vijayadashami. The cadre, in RSS uniform, will take out pathasanchalans or marches at 100 places. The Sangh will launch its mass contact programme, Har Ghar Sampark, in the district on October 5. The south zone will hold 792 public functions and 613 pathasanchalans while the north zone will organise 830 public events and 810 pathasanchalans. The RSS had divided the Kerala state unit into two zones in 2024, considering an increase in the number of units. Districts from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam have been included in south zone while districts from Thrissur to Kasaragod are under north zone.

Cong MLAs, Satheesan lock horns over abrupt ending of party meet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Congress legislature party meeting held on Monday witnessed a stormy scene after legislature party leader V D Satheesan locked horns with some MLAs who accused the party leadership of failing to convene meetings and winding them up abruptly without discussions. The flare-up comes amid alleged resentment within the party over the style of functioning of the leader of opposition. The confrontation broke out just five minutes into the meeting. After a brief speech, KPCC president Sunny Joseph suddenly announced that the meeting was being wound up, saying he and Satheesan needed to attend a protest against police inaction over a BJP leaders televised threat against senior leader Rahul Gandhi. Certain MLAs objected to it. They questioned the leaderships decision to adjourn the meeting abruptly, a senior MLA said. There was criticism that the leadership failed to convene legislature party meetings regularly. Sources said criticism was also raised against the way Satheesan convenes the legislature party meetings. In the past four-and-a-half years, the legislature party met only two or three times. Even then, discussions were cut short without any result. That is why UDFs floor management has failed repeatedly, one of the agitated MLAs pointed out. According to several of the MLAs present at the meeting, with whom TNIE spoke, C R Mahesh (Karunagappally) and Mathew Kuzhalnadan (Muvattupuzha) led the protest pointing out that even with only 20 Congress members in the assembly, the leadership failed to convene legislature party meeting. The meetings were held only three times in the past five years. Where else are we supposed to raise issues if not here? an MLA asked the leadership at the meeting. As temperature rose, Satheesan cut in, telling the agitated members that enough is enough, and there should be no more talking. Sources said this further agitated the MLAs. His stance was termed arrogant by the legislators, who demanded to know what action would follow if they continued speaking, said sources. Tension subsided only after senior leaders intervened. Satheesan did not respond to the queries from TNIE.

Cabinet clears ESG policy to woo green investments

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet on Tuesday issued a nod for the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policy to attract environment-friendly and low-polluting industries. The policy seeks to make Kerala a leading destination for ESG-compliant investments, in line with global trends. Other cabinet decisions The government also waived the advance payment guarantee for the Wayanad Township project, following a request from the projects special officer. The cabinet approved the temporary creation of a law department section for six months, along with a section officer post, to incorporate amendments from the Finance Act and Taxation Laws (Amendment) Acts into key legislation. In education, stamp duty and registration fees were waived for a 30-year government land lease to establish a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Karinkunnam, Thodupuzha taluk, Idukki. TECIL Chemicals and Hydro Power Ltd units in Kottayam district will be exempted from land limits for 8.048 acres of land, subject to conditions. The cabinet approved granting the maximum permissible tender excess concession for public works on the old MC Road and the Link Road connecting to Enathu Junction in Pathanamthitta. The concession was given since the cost exceeds the quoted estimate of Rs 3.68 crore, in accordance with existing provisions.

Missing pedestals at Sabarimala: TDB wants probe against Potty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) will approach the High Court seeking a probe against Unnikrishnan Potty who made the controversial allegation of missing pedestals at Sabarimala temple. The investigation will help to bust the mystery behind the whole incident and allay devotees concerns, according to the board. Pottys missing allegation and the recovery of the pedestal from his possession points to a conspiracy. We firmly believe that the intention was to take the sheen off the Global Ayyappa Conclave. As the matter is being considered by the High Court, we will approach the court to order an investigation by a competent agency, Prasanth told TNIE. According to Prasanth, the board followed all procedures while handing over the gold-clad panels for repair recently. The repair followed a letter from the temple thantri citing the damages to the panels. Subsequently, it was handed over to the agency which sponsored it. It was handed over after making an entry in the records. The sponsor had promised a 40 years warranty at the time of submission, he said. According to Prasanth, officers concerned, Thiruvabharanam commissioner, executive officer and vigilance officer were present and the process was videographed. Though it resulted in a controversy, the court did not find fault with it. Or else it would not have permitted us to proceed with related renovation works at the sanctum, he said. The only lapse, according to Prasanth, was the failure to inform the court-appointed special commissioner. The board does not have any role in the controversial second pedestal issue raised by Potty. We are unaware of the second pedestal he speaks about. It was never submitted to the temple. If so, it would have been recorded in the temple register. Normally, such donations will be entered in the register and will be kept in the strong room at the shrine or the one at Aranmula, he says. According to Prasanth, there were officer-level lapses in the 2019 repair of the gold panels.

De-addiction drive helped bring down alcohol sales in Kerala: Minister M B Rajesh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The sale of alcohol has come down in the state after de-addiction programme Mission Vimukthi was introduced, Excise Minister M B Rajesh told the assembly. The minister said 330.7 lakh cases of alcohol were sold in 2024-25 compared to 339.6 lakh cases in 2011-12. The highest sale was recorded in 2015-16 period where 355.95 lakh cases of alcohol were sold. Coming to 2024-25 period, the sale went down by 25.73 lakh cases, he added. Regarding the service provided under the Vimukthi Mission, he said 1.52 lakh people were provided out-patient treatment, while 12,114 were given treatment as in-patient. As many as 25,010 people were given counselling, he said. A total of 8592 children were also subjected to de-addiction sessions. The minister added that an exclusive de-addiction centre will be set up for women and children in Ernakulam. Excise conducted 30k searches The minister informed the assembly that the excise sleuths conducted 30,374 searches on school premises. 10 cases were registered under the NDPS Act, while 1511 cases were registered under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act.

Unfit buildings in 1,157 Kerala schools

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as the government proudly showcases the various infrastructure development projects it has implemented in state-run schools, the latest figures tabled in the assembly paint a different picture. Buildings in as many as 1,157 schools across the state have been certified as unfit for conducting classes by the local self-government department (LSGD). Notably, over 75% of these schools housing the unfit buildings are government schools. In a written reply to Karungapally MLA C R Maheshs question in the assembly, General Education Minster V Sivankutty said the government views the situation seriously and was taking measures to address it. While construction of new buildings is being carried out by utilising plan funds and through KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) projects, separate funds are also being used for maintenance, he said. Of the 1,157 schools listed, 875 were government schools and 262 were aided. An analysis of the statewide figures shows Kollam had most schools (143) with unfit buildings followed by Alappuzha (134) and Thiruvananthapuram (120). Notably, only 20 unaided schools had unfit buildings, exposing serious flaws in the periodic maintenance being carried out in state-funded government and aided schools. As per rules, schools need to obtain fitness certificates from the local body concerned before reopening each year. Technical reasons behind fitness denial to buildings Schools that do not have the fitness certificates are barred from functioning. The director of general educations circular issued before the start of the current academic year had insisted on fitness certificate but the direction mostly remained on paper. In May, a meeting convened jointly by Sivankutty and LSGD Minister M B Rajesh had decided to raze school buildings in a dilapidated state. It was also noticed that even new school buildings that came up near the dilapidated ones were denied fitness certificate owing to the danger posed by the latter. However, owing to pressure from school management committees, urgent demolition was put off in most of the cases. A senior general education department official told TNIE that fitness of most of the buildings were denied owing to technical reasons. Majority of these buildings had issues such as shoddy plastering of walls, issues relating to irregular flooring and inadequate space prescribed for classrooms. Such schools were given provisional fitness on the condition that the issues will be rectified before the next academic year, the official said. In the previous academic year, 140 schools were given provisional fitness certificates. Of these, 74 had failed to produce fitness certificate before school reopening this year.

Maldivian appoints AVIAREPS as general sales agent for south India

KOCHI: Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has appointed AVIAREPS India as its official general sales agent (GSA) for south India, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market and strengthening trade partnerships in a region that serves as a major gateway to the archipelagic country. We are greatly encouraged by the growing interest from the Indian market, which is a preferred destination for us. We plan to start operations to the cities of Bengaluru and New Delhi besides increasing the frequency of services to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, said Ibrahim Iyas, the managing director of Maldivian. Until August 2025, the Maldives welcomed 85,306 Indian visitors, a 4.7% increase year-on-year. India now ranks sixth among source markets with a 5.7% share of total arrivals, reaffirming its strategic significance. With projections indicating a further 20% growth in 2025, Maldivian is poised to capture a larger share of the outbound segment, particularly from south India where proximity and connectivitymake the Maldives one of the most convenient international getaways. Maldivian has been operating four weekly services (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) both in the Kochi-Male and the Thiruvananthapuram-Male sectors. Maldivian also offers seamless domestic inter-island connections, the largest in the Maldives, allowing visitors to access luxury resorts, adventure hubs, cultural experiences, and wellness retreats across the archipelago. We are proud to partner with Maldivian as their GSA in south India, one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets in the region. India is not only a key source market for the Maldives but also one with immense potential for sustained growth. With our strong local expertise and deep trade relationships, AVIAREPS will ensure Maldivian strengthens its visibility, expands its reach, and provides Indian travellers with seamless access to the Maldives, said Marcelo Kaiser, COO Aviation at AVIAREPS. Maldivian currently operates a fleet of 26 aircraft, connecting 17 domestic airports and international destinations. AVIAREPS is a leading international representation, marketing company for aviation, tourism, and food and beverage brands.

Liposuction gone wrong: State apex body of experts to hand over report to police soon

A 31-year-old woman who had undergone liposuction in a private cosmetic clinic in Thiruvananthapuram had to amputate her fingers following complications

Kerala Assembly adjourned amid opposition protest over death threats against Rahul Gandhi

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Legislative Assembly was adjourned on Tuesday following a strong protest from the Opposition over the Speakers refusal to permit an adjournment motion to discuss the death threat made against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by a BJP leader. Although the government had previously allowed discussions on four adjournment motions, Tuesdays notice was rejected outright. Speaker A N Shamseer stated that the issue was neither urgent nor important enough to warrant an adjournment motion and suggested it could instead be brought up as a submission. Opposition Leader V D Satheesan vehemently objected to the Speakers characterisation of the matter as rivial and insisted it deserved to be raised in the House. Kerala BJP leader Printu Mahadevan booked for death threat against Rahul Gandhi As the Assembly proceeded with other matters, the Opposition erupted in protest, raising slogans and hoisting a banner under the Speakers dais. They eventually staged a walkout, prompting the early adjournment of the House. Satheesan accused the state government of shielding the BJP leader who made the death threat, alleging deliberate inaction despite the seriousness of the incident. He announced that the Congress would organise a statewide protest in response. The controversy stems from remarks made by BJP leader Printu Mahadev, who issued a death threat against Rahul Gandhi during a televised debate on September 26. A police case was registered against him on September 29.

Kerala opens wild frontiers with free entry, contests and conservation drive for Wildlife Week 2025

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Wildlife enthusiasts in Kerala have reason to rejoice as the state throws open the gates of its national parks, tiger reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries with free entry from October 2 to 8, marking the celebrations of Wildlife Week 2025. The celebrations will include competitions and creative challenges as well to draw the younger generation into conversations on conservation. For students of government and government-aided schools and colleges, the week will double up as a platform to showcase their skills in pencil drawing, watercolour painting, essay writing in Malayalam, quiz contests, and elocution. While art contests are open to students from lower primary to higher secondary, the essay, quiz, and elocution will bring together participants from high school to college levels. In Thiruvananthapuram, the Social Forestry Complex at PTP Nagar will set the stage for the programmes, beginning on Wednesday at 11am, with a pencil drawing competition, followed by watercolour painting and essay writing. The following day, the quiz will test quick wits in the morning, while the stage will be ready for eloquence in the afternoon. Participation will be through spot-registration. Our goal is to reach the younger generation they are the future. We want them to understand the importance of forests, wildlife, and conservation so they grow up with a sense of responsibility, says Sajeev S Nair, assistant conservator of forests, Social Forestry Division, Thiruvananthapuram. The celebrations also open up opportunities for the general public, with statewide competitions in wildlife photography, travelogue writing in Malayalam and English, short films, and poster design. With no age restrictions and prizes of up to 30,000 awaiting the winners, these contests are expected to draw strong participation. Winners of select contests can enjoy free access for one year to all protected areas in the state, extended to five of their family members, starting from October 8. Entries must be submitted by 5pm on Tuesday (September 30). The official inauguration of Wildlife Week will be held on October 3 in Kozhikode, while the closing ceremony and prize distribution for statewide competitions will take place at the Forest Headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram on October 9. Details: www.forest.kerala.gov.in

Thiruvananthapurams flood water woes create ripples at council meet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The corporation council meeting held on Monday discussed flooding issues and the delay in opening of Veli breakwater that led to severe waterlogging in low-lying areas in the state capital in the recent rains. UDF councillor P Padmakumar, who raised the issue, said that various corporation wards lying close to the National Highways including Muttathara, Manickavilakam, Puthenpally, Thiruvallam and Vellar areas are facing severe waterlogging. The stormwater drains under NHAI are clogged and causing flooding in residential areas. Despite raising the issue many times, the NH authorities are not taking any action, he said. During the council, Padmakumar said that the sanitation workers are ill-equipped and there is no equipment to pump out water from flooded homes. Mayor Arya Rajendran said that the matter related to NHAI will be taken up with the district collector. The mayor said that serious action will be taken against the contractor for the delay in the opening of Veli breakwater that led to severe flooding in the capital. She assured that measures will be taken to ensure that such mistakes dont happen in the future.

International Media Festival of Kerala opens with Palestine solidarity conference

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Gaza remains in the eye of Israeli bombardment with more than 15,000 tonnes of explosives dropped so far, said Palestinian Ambassador to India Abdullah Abu Shawesh. Speaking at the Palestine Solidarity Conference, organised by the Kerala Media Academy, as part of the International Media Festival of Kerala 2025, he alleged that the offensive amounts to genocide and a propaganda war, accusing Israel of spreading false narratives about Palestine. The Ambassador also charged that journalists have been deliberately targeted. Over 300 journalists have died while reporting the truth of this war, he said, urging people everywhere to share images of the atrocities online. Let those images of mutilated children and our suffering haunt their leaders, he added. The International Media Festival of Kerala opened on Monday with a strong expression of solidarity for Palestine. The Palestine Solidarity Conference featured films, photographs, and tributes to journalists killed in the conflict. The festivals first day showcased a collage of short films made in support of the Palestinian cause, along with a photo exhibition capturing the devastation of war. The exhibition also honoured over 300 journalists who lost their lives while reporting from conflict zones, displaying their portraits as a mark of respect. Before the inaugural session, students of the Kerala Media Academy joined the Palestinian Ambassador and Finance Minister K N Balagopal in releasing balloons in white, red, green, and black-the colours of the Palestinian flag-from the premises of Tagore Theatre. Kites carrying the message Kites rise, so will Palestine were also released to symbolise resilience and hope. Minister Balagopal, speaking at the event, said Kerala has always felt deeply about the Palestinian struggle. It is heartbreaking that more than 65,000 people, including many journalists, have died in this conflict, he said. Referring to his interaction with the Ambassador, Balagopal added that Abu Shawesh told him that most nations except two support Palestines cause. As Leelavathi teacher said, we are most concerned about the children and others losing their lives, he noted. The opening day of the festival combined cultural programmes, films, and testimonies, reaffirming Keralas long-standing solidarity with Palestine.

Shashi Tharoor writes to Air India MD over flight cancellations from Kerala airports

KOCHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has shot off a letter to Air India MD Campbell Wilson, expressing displeasure over the reported large-scale cancellations of Air India Express (AIE) services from Kerala airports in the forthcoming winter schedule. The move is in the wake of reports of a significant number of AIE flights being withdrawn from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode and Kannur in the winter schedule, which will be effective from October 26, 2025 till March 28, 2026. Kerala is one of the busiest aviation hubs in the country, with exceptionally high international passenger traffic, particularly to the Gulf region. Any curtailment of services at this stage will inevitably cause severe hardship to migrant workers, students, tourists and families, while also hampering trade and tourism. @airindia must stop treating Kerala as an afterthought: withdrawing business-class services on the longest single-sector flight in India (Delhi to Thiruvananthapuram) has already added insult to injury, the MP wrote on social media platform X. If @airIndia continues its disregard for Keralas interests, @IndiGo6E and @AkasaAir are waiting in the wings and many of us will have no compunction about switching our allegiance to those who give us the attention we deserve. I had publicly hailed @airindia as my favourite airline. But when facts change, opinions can change too. I hope all concerned will pay due attention. @TataCompanies, he wrote. I have written to @airindia MD Campbell Wilson to express my deep concern over reports of large-scale cancellations of @airindiaexpress services from Kerala's airports in the forthcoming winter schedule. According to widely-circulated media accounts, a significant number of Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) September 29, 2025

Biometric kiosks to make immigration processing a breeze at Kochi airport

KOCHI: After the fast-track immigration initiative of the Bureau of Immigration, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) will soon set up biometric kiosks at arrival terminals for faster immigration processing of foreign nationals. Sources said CIAL will set up ten biometric kiosks just before the immigration counter at T-3 arrival terminal. The specially-designed kiosks are intended to expedite the immigration process for arriving foreign nationals. These will be self service kiosks with 15-inch screens. The kiosks will facilitate quick and easy automated identity verification using unique physical characteristics including facial and fingerprint scan. The same allows for faster data capture and comparison against secure government databases, reducing both passenger queues and officer workload, a senior CIAL official said. At present, passengers need to stand in queue at immigration counters for examinations, including scans of all 10 fingers, with an average wait time of four-five minutes per passenger. During peak hours, these queues could lead to even longer delays. A common issue faced at counters is the difficulty to read fingerprints of elderly people. A delay or repetition of the process will affect others in the queue. This can be eliminated with automated biometric kiosks. Once the system successfully enrols data and confirms identity, the passenger receives clearance to proceed to the counter. The passenger will need to provide just a single-finger scan to complete the process, he said. Besides the reduced wait time, the biometrics offer a more secure and accurate method of identity verification, minimising the risk of human error. CIAL has already floated the tenders to set up the kiosks. The successful bidder will need to complete the work in five months. Faster immigration The Bureau of Immigration launched its fast-track immigration facility to eliminate long queues and streamline the immigration process. As part of it, a Fast Track Immigration - Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) kiosk, installed in the departure waiting area of Terminal 3, allows passengers to complete their on-the-spot registration and biometric enrolment. The cutting-edge scheme is designed for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizenship of India cardholders. By enrolling in the programme, travellers can complete their immigration formalities in just 30 seconds using advanced biometric-enabled smart gates. The FTI-TTP facility is now available in 13 international airports, including Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode.

Kerala High Court appoints observer for selection of chief priest at Sabarimala temple

KOCHI: Kerala High Court on Monday appointed Justice T R Ramachandran Nair, former judge of the court, as the observer to oversee the proceedings for selection of melsanthis (chief priests) of Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and Malikappuram Temple, for 2025-2026. The division bench also requested him to be in Sabarimala at the time of the draw of lots. For the selection of melsanthis of Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple and Malikappuram Temple, applications have been called for and 119 applications (70 for Sabarimala and 49 for Malikappuram) came up for consideration. After Vigilance inquiry, 53 applications were recommended for interview at Sabarimala and 36 applications for Malikappuram, which are scheduled to be held on October 3 and 4 at the Travancore Devaswom Board Head Office, Thiruvananthapuram. The court made it clear that the selection of melsanthis should be conducted in terms of the 2011 order of the Supreme Court and the guidelines issued by the High Court. The court ordered that the entries in the mark sheet shall be made only by using a ballpoint pen. The mark sheets shall be countersigned by the observer and should be kept in safe custody of the commissioner of the Travancore Devaswom Board. The entire proceedings scheduled to be held on October 3 and 4, shall be video-graphed. The entry of persons to the Sopanam enclosure of Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, at the time of draw of lots, shall be in terms of the direction of the High Court issued in 2023. The court also requested the Observer to file a report after the culmination of the interview. The TDB commissioner should produce the CD of the selection proceedings, mark lists and also the short list before the court, in a sealed cover, through the standing counsel for the TDB on or before October 13.

Kerala schools put up stellar show in national education world rankings

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Five schools from Kerala featured in the top 10 under various categories of the 19th edition of the EducationWorld India School Rankings (EWISR) released on Monday. Government VHSS for Girls, Nadakkavu, Kozhikode, retained its all-India second rank in the State Government Day Schools classification. Kendriya Vidyalaya, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram was ranked ninth in the country among Central Government Day Schools. In the previous ranking, the school had bagged the seventh spot. Navy Children School, Kochi (ranked 12), Kendriya Vidyalaya No 2, Naval Base, Kochi (18) and Army Public School, Pangode, Thiruvananthapuram (29) were the other schools from the state that made the category. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Chennithala, Alappuzha bagged the eighth spot in the Central Government Boarding Schools group. Last year, the school was ranked sixth. Pallikoodam, in Kottayam, was ranked fourth in the Co-ed Day-cum-Boarding Schools group. The school came third in the last two years. The other Co-ed Day-cum-Boarding Schools in Kerala that figured in the rankings are The Choice School, Kochi (17), Montfort School, Chinnakanal (36), and Delhi Public School Kollam and Kuriakose Elias English Medium School, Kottayam (37). Sadhbhavana World School, Kozhikode was ranked sixth among International Day-cum-Boarding Schools. The school improved its ranking from ninth last year. The other schools in the category from the state that figured in the rankings were: The White School International, Kozhikode (12), Trivandrum International School (19), and Dawn International School, Kochi (30). As per the EWISR city rankings, the top Co-ed Day Schools were Navajeevan Bethany Vidyalaya (Thiruvananthapuram); Viswajyothi Public School, Angamaly (Ernakulam), Lords Academy (Thrissur), and Face International School, Kalarikandy (Kozhikode). EWISR 2025-26 was conducted by EducationWorld magazine in association with AZ Research Partners Pvt Ltd. EWISR rates and ranks 4,500 schools from 518 cities and towns across India on 15 parameters of educational excellence.

Dadasaheb Phalke award: Kerala government to honour Mohanlal at mega event

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Film personalities, politicians and sociopolitical and cultural icons will gather at Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on October 4 to honour and celebrate the achievements of superstar and Dadasaheb Phalke award recipient Mohanlal. Malayalam Vanolam, Lalsalam, organised by the state government, will see Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan honour the actor. Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian will preside over the event, in which ministers V Sivankutty, G R Anil, and others will be presen. Actors Urvashi, Shobhana, Manju Warrier, Parvathy, Karthika, Meena, Nithya Menen and Lissy will share their experiences working with Mohanlal. Logo of the event released Renowned singers, including Sujatha Mohan, Shwetha Mohan, Sithara Krishnakumar, Arya Dhayal, Manjari and Jyotsna Radhakrishnan, will sing popular songs in which he acted. Of the 100 years of Malayalam cinema, Mohanlal has been giving invaluable contributions for the last 50, Cherian told reporters on Monday. The logo of the event was released at the press conference attended by Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil, General Education Minister V Sivankutty, MLAs V Joy and Antony Raju, director, cultural affairs, Divya S Iyer, KSFDC chairman K Madhu, and Kerala Cultural Activists Welfare Fund Board chairman K Madhupal.

Tovino Thomas makes first call as CM Pinarayi Vijayan launches Citizen Connect Centre

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first call to states newly launched CM with Me Citizen Connect Centre came from actor Tovino Thomas. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the facility at Vellayambalam here on Monday, personally attended the call, with Tovino conveying his best wishes and describing the initiative as a welcome step. The chief minister thanked the actor and said his support would inspire more people to use the platform. The chief minister later attended three more calls during the launch, including one from a beneficiary who thanked the government for allotting a house and requested a K-Fone internet connection. Vijayan immediately directed officials to take steps to resolve the issue. Launching the project, the chief minister said CM with Me is a unique citizen connect system aimed at bridging the communication gap between the public and the government. This is a scheme that makes people partners in governance. If you call CM with Me with a complaint or suggestion, you will be contacted back and informed of the action taken within 48 hours, he said. The centre, set up in the old Air India office at Vellayambalam. The chief minister said its strength lies in transparency, accountability, and direct communication. In a democratic system, the ultimate responsibility of governance lies with the people. CM with Me ensures that the people are not just beneficiaries of development but active participants in shaping Keralas future, he said. The centre will have two layers of operation. The first layer will function as a 24-hour receiving centre capable of handling 10 calls simultaneously. The second layer will focus on departmental redressal.

Shashi Tharoor attends Congress party event after long gap ahead of elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After a long interval, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor attended a Congress party function on Monday. He participated in the concluding ceremony of the Mahila Sahas Yatra organsied by the Mahila Congress against the Left government in the state, in front of the secretariat. Following his remarks in support of the BJP-led government on a host of issues like foreign policy and national security, the Congress state unit has not been inviting him to official functions. It is learnt that Tharoor was invited to the function by AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala, Deepa Dasmunshi. Tharoor also addressed Mondays function which was attended by several senior leaders including KPCC president Sunny Joseph, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. The party had kept Tharoor out of the Nilambur bypoll campaign. The change in stance comes in the wake of the impending elections and Tharoors closeness with the Nair Service Society, it is learnt. Shashi Tharoor's praise for Kerala government in TNIE article invites sharp response from Congress Shashi Tharoor's Modi praise pleases BJP in Kerala, fuels Congress discontent

Global Ayyappa Sangamam: Congress banks on Rahul Gandhi to regain lost ground

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Coming under pressure from UDF partners for no show at Global Ayyappa Sangamam and related development issues, a section in the Congress has decided to bring party supremo Rahul Gandhi into the scene to recover the lost ground. They want Rahul either to visit the shrine or to address a convention explaining the Congress stance on the issue to the public. Two UDF partners have already approached Rahul in their personal capacity seeking his intervention, it is learnt. We have already spoken to Rahul more than once, explaining the political importance of the issue, a top UDF leader told TNIE. Currently, there is a leadership vacuum in the state Congress. There is no leader who is capable of addressing issues related to NSS, an influential community organisation. Congress should also have to address sentiments of Hindus like it did during the Sabarimala agitation period, he said. UDF not to take part in Global Ayyappa Meet The leaders are of the opinion that as an immediate visit of Rahul would generate political debate, it will be good to arrange it during Sabarimala season later. It is up to the Congress to decide. Though we did not cooperate with the Sangamam, the leaders body language sent a message that we are boycotting it. We also failed to tell our workers that they are free to participate, another UDF leader said. The leaders pointed out that since Rahul has been visiting temples in north India, it will be considered quite natural for him to visit the Sabarimala shrine too. He need not talk about anything. The visit will have a power of a thousand words, a Congress leader remarked. According to some UDF leaders, there is resentment among workers about leaders like Priyanka limiting their visit to certain minority community leaders only. They think Rahuls initiatives will help correct any misunderstandings about this. There is also criticism in Congress and UDF over the way certain senior leaders accuse the government of majoritarian appeasement for organising Ayyappa Sangamam. The Sangamam was organised by Travancore Devaswom Board. How can we term a move by the devaswom board as majority communal appeasement? they asked. There is strong discontent in Congress about lack of discussion even after suffering a setback to overcome the crisis. Though senior leader P J Kurien met NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair at the NSS headquarters in Perunna, it is learned that the visit was a personal one.

National Waterway stretch set for December opening

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Keralas ambitious inland navigation project is edging closer to reality, with the Akkulam-Chettuva stretch of the National Waterway set to open soon. The nearly 250km link, part of the Kovalam-Bekal West Coast Canal (WCC) project, will be commissioned in December, offering a new lifeline for transport, tourism and cargo movement. According to sources, the chief minister is expected to dedicate the section from Akkulam, in Thiruvananthapuram to Chettuva, in Thrissur in a ceremony proposed to be held in the 330m tunnel at Chilakkoor in Varkala. A Rs 3 crore electric boat is being manufactured for the commissioning. Expected to pave the way for new economic and tourism opportunities, the work is being implemented jointly by the Coastal Shipping and Inland Navigation (CSIN) department and Kerala Waterways Infrastructure Ltd (KWIL) a special-purpose vehicle of Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) and the state government. CIALs CSR fund is bankrolling the design and manufacture of the boat meant for commissioning the project. A high-quality projector will be installed in the 20-seater boat, which will cost around `3 crore. The tunnel will host the official commissioning, a KWIL official said. KWIL carried out beautification of the Arivalam-Thottilpalam area for Rs 24 crore. The seven-minute journey through Varkala tunnel will feature a light-and-sound infotainment show. It will deal with the history of Travancore and Sree Narayana Gurus legacy, the official added. 594 families relocated to facilitate project The project, which has seen accelerated progress since 2021, had to overcome major hurdles linked to land acquisition and rehabilitation. A major bottleneck was Varkala. To address the issue, the tunnel is being made navigable by dredging. An official with the CSIN department said work is actively progressing in several key sections and 95% of the rehabilitation has been completed in Varkala area. The project is not just about transportation but also about creating new economic opportunities. An economic development opportunity study has been completed, and multiple schemes are in the pipeline. We have identified large land parcels along the waterway for development under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The first step is to commission the stretch and rest of the development will follow, the official told TNIE. Around 400 families were relocated in the Varkala area and 194 families relocated from Kadinamkulam to facilitate the project. Dredging work is progressing well and we hope to complete the activity by the end of next month or by November 15, the official added. Once the project is commissioned, the water transport department will explore the possibility of operating transport vehicles. The department will also resume transport boat services on the Kollam-Alappuzha stretch, which has been on hold for some time. Cost to Coast The 590km West Coast Canal (WCC) connects Kovalam in the south to Neeleswaram in the north. It traverses through 11 districts of Kerala The waterway from Kovalam to Bekal in Kasaragod is proposed to be developed at a width of 40m and a draft of 2.20m to enable large-scale movement of cargo Nearly 250km of the WCC -- part of National Waterway -- from Akkulam to Chettuva likely to be commissioned in December. Around Rs 300 crore has been spent to make the stretch navigable Phase II of the project, focused on land acquisition and rehabilitation, is underway Kiifb has sanctioned an additional Rs 247.3 crore to rehabilitate 1,275 families residing on the banks of the Kovalam-Varkala stretch

Theyyam makes Durga Puja debut in Kolkata

KANNUR: The city of joy is ablaze with Durga Puja festivities. Pandals glitter with lights, dhaak beats echo through every lane, and the air carries the fragrance of dhuno. Yet, amid the familiar grandeur, this years celebrations hold something never seen before Keralas theyyam has found its place in Bengals most important festival. At South Kolkatas famed 66 Pally Clubs Durga Puja, the pandal itself tells the story. Built in the style of a traditional Kannur temple, its architecture draws directly from Keralas vastu vidya. Crafted over three months by a team of carpenters from Thalassery, the structure is both a tribute to tradition and a bold experiment in cultural fusion. It cost nearly Rs 25 lakh to complete, but its impact goes far beyond numbers. The highlight is not just the pandal but what unfolds within it. Ten artists from Thiruvananthapuram-based Theyyam Nayana Kala Samiti have arrived in Kolkata for a ten-day programme, performing theyyam live every evening. For many in Bengal, accustomed to worshipping Durga in her majestic idol form, the spectacle of theyyam a performer transformed into a living deity is nothing short of breathtaking. This is our first time being part of Durga Puja in Kolkata, says Vijaya Kumar, one of the theyyam artists. His voice still carries the weight of ritual after a performance. We were surprised when we saw the arrangements here. The pandal has been built on the model of Kerala temples. We came to know this is the first time in the history of Durga Puja that Keralas vastu vidya has been used for a pandal. That itself makes this experience memorable, Kumar says. An artist preparing for theyyam performance in Kolkata The group has been performing different theyyams, including Gulikan and Pottan, each night. Four artists don the elaborate makeup, towering headgear, and vibrant costumes, while others assist in the ritual preparations. Every day, we receive countless accolades and appreciation from the locals. Bengal is truly a land of art and culture. The way people welcomed us here proves it, Kumar adds with a smile. For the 66 Pally Club, this experiment was part of a larger milestone their 75th platinum jubilee celebrations. Kolkatas clubs are known for pushing boundaries with pandal themes every year, says 66 Pally creative designer Gopal Poddar. I make themes versatile each year. For the past few months, I have been researching about theyyam. I travelled to Kannur and met the artists earlier this year. First, I approached artists from Kannur but they declined, citing strict ritual practices that bind their performances to temple groves and ancestral shrines, Poddar says. It was then that the Thiruvananthapuram-based troupe stepped in, ensuring that the art of theyyam could travel beyond its sacred courtyards to Kolkatas festival streets, he says. Here, the result is unimaginable. Social media influencers and local people are rushing to the pandal each day to see the performances, Poddar adds. And unforgettable it is. As crowds throng to see Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura in idol form, they also pause to watch Keralas fierce deities come alive in fire-red faces, swirling movements, and the thunder of chendas. In this space, Bengal and Kerala meet Durga and Theyyam stand side by side, different forms, one spirit.

Sonnet of Samsara: A dialogue with space and self

Two years ago, when the Serendipity Arts Festival one of the largest multidisciplinary arts initiatives in South Asia approached Jayachandran Palazhy, founder and artistic director of Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts, Bengaluru, to create a new work, he had already been contemplating a production on the cycle of life. It began during Covid. The headlines on migrant workers walking kilometres at a stretch, followed by floods, fire, and conflicts around the world, forced me to think about the future, shares Jayachandran. This was also the time when a new wave of technological advancements hit the world. I was wondering how different humans and human life would be then. These thoughts led him to search for answers for what humans need to do and be for the collective good. When the opportunity presented itself, Jayachandrans idea came to life through a one-hour-and-ten-minute performance titled Sonnet of Samsara. The transdisciplinary performance uses a unique vocabulary of Attakkalari to focus on the human conditions of discovery, transformation, and renewal, while being rooted in an Indian perspective. The show is a universal experience because it explores human conditions and is made with an Indian filter that highlights the perspectives of bondage, samsara , and maya , says Vijay Saravanan, media consultant and lighting designer. The show produced by Attakkalari in collaboration with Kinetika Design Studio, London, and supported by the British Council now comes to Chennai. It poses answers to some of the contemporary challenges, such as environmental crises, climate emergencies, conflicts, and societal divisions, by drawing from myths, memories, lived experiences, and imagination. Myths have lived longer than human memories. Myth, memories, and experience are different iterations of time, says Jayachandran and that is why he included them in his research and the work that followed. While the audiences will discover these elements in layers, the show also dynamically adapts to the unique characteristics and histories of landscapes or sites, engaging with the communities that inhabit them. According to Jayachandran, Architecture is the repository of memories and humans are just carriers. Through the performance, which includes martial arts, Bharatanatyam, and more, Jayachandran wishes to evoke the spirit of this journey of discovery what different architecture tells about various times. Instead of being confined to the long-practised proscenium stage, the work responds to the space it is performed in, transforming with each venue. Vijay explains, We call it [the show] a site-specific performance, which means it takes advantage of the space itself, the unique architecture, craft, and material heritage and complements the space. This also means that the performance itself has grown and evolved with time, from its first staging at the festival and at a mansion in Thiruvananthapuram to the last stage it occupied in the UK. The concept was interpreted by local dancers in the UK, taking on a fresh dimension. Jay has staged the performance with only two dancers from India and the rest being local dancers from different parts of the UK through workshops. A completely new form of the same performance was presented, he says. In its Chennai iteration, the show brings together nine dancers, three musicians live percussion and mizhavu various environmental songs, and a recorded track by singer MD Pallavi. Vijay shares, In live performances, the audiences energy completely imbues the performance with unique qualities. The energy of the show itself is very unique. And we are looking forward to presenting it and finding the energy ourselves in Chennai. In the city, the performance a celebration to mark Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts silver jubilee is spread across three days: a site performance at DakshinaChitra on October 3, a formal stage performance at Music Academy on October 4, and a lecture presentation at the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) on October 6. Jayachandran says, At DakshinaChitra, it is more of paying homage to the surrounding, the nature, from all we have come, and how it has evolved over time with humans entering different phases in life childhood, adolescent, adulthood and beyond, and Vijay adds, At ACJ, the lecture talks about the journey of this performance, telling the audience about how it came to be, how it was developed, the intricacies of the movement vocabularies and the influences that went into the show. As the lights, music, and movements come together, Sonnet of Samsara is set to transform the space and create dialogue, not only between the performer and the audience but also the space, each time renewing itself in the process.

Kerala govt to honour Mohanlal on being conferred with Dadasaheb Phalke Award with mega event

Titled Malayalam Vaanolam, Lal Salam, the event will be held at Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on October 4 evening

Kerala Assembly passes resolution against implementation of SIR in the state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Expressing concern that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll was aimed at indirectly implementing theNational Register of Citizens , the Kerala legislative assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution urging the Election Commission of India (ECI) to desist from the move and to carry out electoral roll revision in a transparent manner. The resolution, moved by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was passed by the assembly with two minor amendments. The resolution said the politics of exclusion was reflected in the SIR carried out in Bihar. The exclusion of voters was illogical and implementing the same across the country has given rise to widespread suspicion. Implementing SIR in a hasty manner in poll-bound states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, when the Supreme Court is yet to decide on the constitutional validity of the process, cannot be seen as an innocent move, the resolution said. The undue haste in implementation of SIR, which needs to be carried out only after long-drawn planning and discussions, has given rise to fears that the process is aimed at scuttling democracy and has brought the ECI under a cloud, it said. SIR faces stiff opposition from parties in state except BJP The resolution pointed out that Kerala is facing the local body election soon and the assembly polls thereafter. Implementing SIR at such a juncture has ulterior motives. Besides, carrying out SIR using the 2002 voters' list is unscientific, the assembly said. The move to exclude voters who do not have documents to prove citizenship is a violation of Article 236 of the Constitution that ensures universal adult suffrage for citizens, it said. The resolution highlighted that the conditions laid down in SIR would result in minorities, SC/ST people, women and poor families being excluded from the election process. Besides, the rights of overseas electors to vote should also be protected, the resolution said. The resolution also cautioned that SIR would be prone to misuse by those who are attempting to revive the Citizenship Amendment Act that decides citizenship on religious lines. This poses a grave challenge to democracy, the resolution said.

Father-son duo escapes from police custody in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A father-son duo escaped from police custody on Sunday morning. Kulathupuzha natives Syedali, 22, and his father Ayoob Khan, 60, were accused of robbing three shops in Palode. They were caught from Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad on Saturday, and were being brought back to Palode by the police when the duo escaped near Kadakkal, Kollam. The accused said that they wanted to urinate while coming back early on Sunday morning, by around 4 am. The duo immediately escaped when the vehicle stopped at Cherukulam in Kadakkal, police officers said. Even though the police tried to chase them down, the duo could not be caught. They have been charges with fleeing police custody. The area from where they escaped has forest patches, hilly areas, and agricultural fields nearby, making the search a challenging one, police officers said. They also added that Syedali and Ayoob were living in a rented house near Kusavoor, Palode, when they planned the robbery. A native mentioned that the accused were spotted near the Kottukkal agricultural farm, following which the police searched the area, but in vain. Drones and dog squads have been deployed to search in dense forest areas, authorities stated. Cases of a similar nature have been registered against them in different areas. More details cannot be revealed at this point, as the search is on, Nedumangad ASP Achyuth Ashok said. Currently, the search is being jointly carried out by officials of Palode and Kadakkal stations. Palode police informed that the father-son duo had robbed `30,000 and some stationery items from three shops in Palode a week before and went into hiding. The robbery was reported to the police on September 21. Locating the accused was difficult, but the police officials had managed to nab the duo with help of CCTV visuals of the vehicle in which they travelled to Wayanad.

SYMP 2025 inspires nearly 1000 young minds with insights from industry leaders

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Igniting young professional minds, the Shaping Young Minds Programme (SYMP) 2025, organised by Trivandrum Management Association (TMA), in association with the All India Management Association (AIMA), saw experts from various industries take part. The programme, which saw close to 1000 delegates, including invited guests, students, and young professionals, was held at the Uday Palace Convention Centre here on Sunday. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Air Marshal I P Vipin (Retd.) said that India hosts a vibrant young population, who will emerge as the leaders of tomorrow. To be successful, youngsters need to read more and evolve through critical thinking and analytical thinking, he remarked. The All India Management Association (AIMA) director Madhav Sharma expressed his elation at having over one lakh students and professionals as participants for SYMP across India over the years. Addressing the gathering, Grant Thornton Bharat vice-chair Richard Rekhy opined that anticipatory thinking,besides reading books, will take the professionals ahead. The conclave sessions were chaired by eminent achievers, including Centre for Management Development, Kerala Director Jayasankar Prasad C, Medicaid Ethos Co-Chairperson & Group CEO Wg. Cdr. Ragashree D Nair (Retd), DC School of Management and Technology director Veni M Nair, and Asian School of Business associate professor Dr Madhava C Kurup. The programme was also attended by TMA president G Unnikrishnan, former general manager of the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, Sudhanshu Mani, former CEO of UK India Business Council Jayant Krishna, among other noted figures. Former Indian diplomat Deepak Vohra, in his address, stated that India boasts of burgeoning hi-tech start-ups and were making more locomotives in one year than the US and China combined. Experts from different industries commented that the curiosity of youngsters will keep them relevant in all fields, despite the growth of artificial intelligence all around them. They also shared their experiences and leadership lessons with students and young professionals.

Meet discusses development schemes in various constituencies

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The District Development Committee meeting held at the collectorate here discussed development programmes and schemes across various segments, including Kovalam, Parassala, Neyyattinkara and Vattiyoorkavu assembly constituencies and the Attingal Lok Sabha constituency. Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth called for steps to repair the street lights in the city. He demanded the effective utilisation of land owned by the Kerala Water Authority in Peroorkada. He also called for more anti-drug activities. The progress of works of Vattiyoorkavu revenue tower, Muttada sub-registrar office, Melekkadavu tourism project, Pattom flyover, Peroorkada flyover, Vattiyoorkavu junction development and title deed distribution were reviewed. Neyyattinkara MLA K Ansalan raised the issue of anti-socials at Pathamkallu. Various projects at Neyyattinkara, including construction activities by the PWD, land acquisition related to the general hospital, Udiyankulangara market renovation, Karode drinking water project, new court complex, new building for the Pozhiyoor community health centre, approach road construction for Panchikkattu bridge, construction of isolation ward at Venpakal hospital were reviewed. Parassala MLA C K Hareendran demanded steps for immediate title deed distribution at Parassala and Vellarada weavers colony. Projects like the new bus terminal construction at Parassala, Neyyar dam destination development project and Kunnathukal stadium were discussed in the meeting. The MLA also said MGNREGS work should be restarted in 10 panchayats. Steps taken to prevent amoebic encephalitis at Attingal constituency were discussed. The wild animal attacks in the forest fringes of Palode, and construction of Kalagramam at Chirayinkeezhu were also discussed. Kovalam MLA M Vincent raised the issues of a football stadium in Karumkulam panchayat, widening of Adimalathura bridge, compensation to owners of farmlands at Vellayani, gallery at the Adimalathura football ground and Kakkamool approach road works. ADM T K Vineet presided over the meeting.

Govt to build comprehensive senior citizen ecosystem: Minister M B Rajesh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government will initiate steps to build a comprehensive ecosystem for senior citizens, Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh said in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. The minister was speaking at the Sherpa Senior Conclave organised by the Overseas Keralites Investment and Holding Limited (OKIH) at the Government Guest House. Mentioning the rising share of Keralas elderly population, Kerala State Planning Board member K Ravi Raman said the living conditions of senior citizens will play an important role in the building of Nava Keralam. The programme was also attended by OKIH director and NORKA secretary S Harikishore, Loka Kerala Sabha secretariat director Asif K Yusuf, and OKIH managing director Baju George, among others.

Demand up, but track congestion derails new Vande Bharat hopes in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Vande Bharat trains continue to be among the most preferred services for rail passengers in Kerala, with occupancy levels consistently crossing 160% on routes such as Mangaluru Central-Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvananthapuram-Kasaragod, and Nagercoil-Chennai Egmore. Despite the strong patronage, sources said the railway ministry has not granted additional services to Kerala, citing severe track congestion. Introducing new high-speed trains would force the Railways to halt several passenger services for longer durations to clear a corridor for Vande Bharat operations. Earlier this month, on September 9, the Railways expanded the coach composition of both the Mangaluru Central-Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod-Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharats from 16 to 20. The seating capacity of a 20-seater Vande Bharat service is 1,440 passengers. Yet, according to senior railway officials, the average footfall on these trains under Thiruvananthapuram division remains far higher -- between 2,300 and 2,500 passengers per trip -- clearly reflecting the overwhelming demand. Although the Nagercoil-Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat does not run through Kerala, it falls under the Thiruvananthapuram division, and many passengers from the state capital rely on this service to reach Chennai. There is no doubt that Vande Bharat services enjoy tremendous patronage in Kerala, a senior railway official said. But if we introduce an additional Vande Bharat, we will be compelled to halt many passenger trains at various stations to clear the way for the high-speed train with limited stops. That would affect thousands of daily commuters and balancing these competing demands is not an easy task. Sources in the railway ministry admitted the issue has become a major puzzle for policymakers. While demand is particularly strong for a direct Vande Bharat service to Bengaluru, officials said running one along the congested Kerala-Bengaluru corridor is extremely difficult. We cannot estimate how many passenger trains would be affected if a Vande Bharat is introduced from Ernakulam or any other Kerala station to Bengaluru. Such a move could trigger criticism, as it will affect many other passenger trains. The Railways has to consider the interests of all sections of passengers, not just premium travellers, a senior ministry official said. Infrastructure expert E Sreedharan, popularly known as Metro Man, echoed the assessment. He noted that under the current circumstances, the introduction of more Vande Bharats in Kerala is not feasible. If new services are introduced, they will either be forced to run at reduced speeds or disrupt passenger train schedules. The practical solution is to keep increasing coach capacity, as the Railways has already done. In the longer run, creating a dedicated high-speed corridor will be the only way to run more such trains without disruption, Sreedharan said. Regular commuters also urged the Railways to focus on expanding capacity in the short term. There is no point in running Vande Bharats at low speed, said Rajesh Kumar, a frequent traveller. If new trains cannot be introduced immediately, at least add more coaches to existing services and consider a special project for Kerala to accommodate more high-speed trains. For now, Keralas Vande Bharat puzzle remains unsolved: demand soaring, but the tracks too crowded to make room for more services.

Kerala govt forms new safety protocols for schools

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a decisive move to enhance student safety, the state government has formulated a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness across schools. Acting on a directive from the High Court, the state will soon issue a circular outlining a multi-departmental safety framework involving the education, health, forest, and local self-government departments. The initiative follows the tragic 2019 incident in Wayanad, where a schoolgirl died after being bitten by a snake inside her classroom. The incident prompted two writ petitions one filed by activist Kulathoor Jaisingh and another taken up suo motu by the court highlighting serious lapses in school infrastructure and emergency medical response. Under the new guidelines, all institutions under the general education department, as well as CBSE and ICSE schools, will be covered. The framework will also extend to anganwadis through inter-departmental coordination, including the women and child development department. Schools will be mandated to conduct safety audits of their premises, maintain a well-equipped first-aid room, and prepare a child emergency response plan that includes a list of hospitals equipped with anti-venom and pediatric critical care. Clean toilets and regular mock drills will be compulsory.

NSS political position different from Sabarimala stand, says Chennithala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The NSS political stand is different from its Sabarimala stand, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has said. NSS has a clear stand on Sabarimala. Its general secretary said they are with the state government on the Sabarimala issue. They are free to take their stand and we accept it. The general secretary also said that they will continue their equidistance policy in politics. It means their stand on Sabarimala is different from their political stand. There is a correct distance in the equidistance policy. The organisation has been following this stand from the times of its departed leader Narayana Panicker, Chennithala told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. He said Congress leaders are maintaining good relations with the NSS and the SNDP. We have never insulted the feelings of community organisations. This government took young women to Sabarimala in the name of renaissance and insulted the feelings of believers. They have neither apologised nor changed their stand, he said. While the UDF and the Congress have a clear stand on Sabarimala, that is not the case with either LDF government or Pinarayi Vijayan, Chennithala said. Pinarayi is deceptive on the issue. His interest lies in vote bank. The believers are intelligent enough to understand that, he said. The CPM is now attempting majority community appeasement after minority appeasement, the Congress leader said.

Health dept forms medical committee to probe sudden cardiac deaths

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In response to a growing concern over sudden cardiac death (SCD) among youth in Kerala, the state government is preparing to announce a comprehensive action plan aimed at investigation and prevention. As part of the initiative, the health department has constituted a medical committee comprising senior cardiologists, physicians, epidemiologists, and critical care specialists. The panel includes Dr Narayanan Namboothiri (cardiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology), Dr Mathew Iype (cardiology, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram), Dr Jayakumar (cardiovascular thoracic surgery, Government Medical College, Kottayam), Dr Binu Areekal (community medicine, Government Medical College, Ernakulam), Dr Radha T R (general medicine, Government Medical College, Kottayam), Dr Rakhal Gaitonde (health sciences, Achutha Menon Centre, Thiruvananthapuram), and Dr Anil Sathyadas (critical care, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram). The committee is expected to meet soon to formulate the action plan, with a special focus on identifying preventable causes. Though the survival rate following cardiac arrest remains low, experts pointed out that timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Cardiac arrest may result from a heart attack or congenital conditions. The former is more preventable. Currently, the survival rate is only around 10% but with timely CPR this can be raised to 25%, said Dr Mathew, the committees coordinator. One of the panels immediate goals is to standardise CPR procedures across the state. It is crucial to raise public awareness about the life-saving potential of CPR, he said. The urgency of the initiative was highlighted by a recent incident in which a legislative assembly staffer collapsed and died during Onam celebrations in September. Video footage showed bystanders failing to either recognise the emergency or administer CPR. On Monday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate a mass CPR training programme at the assembly, with sessions planned in 200 centres across Kerala. Dr Mathew emphasised the importance of proper technique. We may consider avoiding the mouth-to-mouth breathing step, as it is not widely accepted, he said, adding that a high prevalence of diabetes in Kerala further increases vulnerability to cardiac arrest. Cardiovascular diseases remain the states leading cause of death. An estimated six million adults in Kerala live with either hypertension or diabetes, which together account for 26% of all deaths. Action plan Panel expected to meet soon to form action plan, with focus on preventable causes Immediate goal is to standardise CPR procedures across the state

Central criteria and Keralas needs must govern AIIMS location, say key voices

KOCHI: Another debate over the location of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala has kicked off, even as the state government awaits the Centres decision. Suresh Gopi MP recently demanded setting up the institution in Alappuzha, while BJP leaders from Kasaragod and Thiruvananthapuram have been pushing their own districts. According to experts, the location can be chosen in keeping with the central governments norms and the states requirements. K V Thomas, the states special officer in Delhi, said the central governments norms should be followed in selecting the location. We cannot choose a site randomly. Along with land availability, the proposed location must have access to the National Highway and roads besides reliable supply of water, electricity, and other resources. Kinaloor, Kozhikode, was selected after several discussions. BJP leaders in Kerala have no idea about what it takes, he told TNIE. Health Minister Veena George on Saturday said differences of opinion over location should not lead to the shelving of the project. Current and former Union ministers, with whom I held talks, appreciate the fact that the state is deserving of an AIIMS. Now, only a political decision is pending. Kerala cannot be denied an AIIMS, and these disputes should not delay the project, she told reporters in Kochi. In an interaction with TNIE, Dr Jayakumar, a prominent cardiothoracic surgeon, said the institution should be established taking into consideration the needs of the state. AIIMS is a teaching and training institute. It should be set up considering the requirements of the state. If it becomes an apex centre for treatment and training, it will be good. It is not about infrastructure. It may take a period to develop the system and ensure excellence. Thomas demanded that the central government set a deadline for the announcement. The official procedures to establish an AIIMS in the state are under way. Around four months ago, I met the Union health secretary to discuss the matter. I was informed by the central government that an official team will be inspecting the proposed location to determine the facilities available. However, the ministers response on Saturday was disappointing, he said.

Retired Army man from Kayamkulam under Houthi custody for three months; family awaits govt intervention

ALAPPUZHA: A retired Indian Army person from Kayamkulam, who was taken captive by Houthi rebels in war-torn Yemen, continues to remain in their custody even after 80 days. His family is awaiting the intervention of the state and Union governments to get him released. Anilkumar Raveendran (52), of Pathiyoor, has been held by the security forces under the Houthi-controlled Yemeni government since July 7. He was serving as a security officer on board the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MV Eternity C, which was attacked and later sunk in the Red Sea. Despite repeated pleas to state and central authorities, no concrete step has been taken for his release, his family members said. Anilkumar's wife, Sheeja, said she has submitted several memorandums to both state and Union ministers, including Minister of State Suresh Gopi, but is yet to receive any assurance of action. Anilkumar manages to contact us occasionally and says he is safe, staying at a hotel in Sanaa, where he is being provided food and basic facilities. But there is no clarity about when he and the 10 others in captivity, including nine Filipinos and a Greek national, will be released. We urge the Union government and community leaders to intervene, as that is the only way to secure his freedom, Sheeja said. This is not the first time a Kayamkulam native has faced such a situation. In 2022, another seafarer, Akhil Reghu, was held by the Houthis and released after four months, following the intervention of the Indian government and the Indian Embassy in Oman. The ill-fated MV Eternity C was on its way to the Israeli port of Eilat when it came under attack. Houthi militants, who have intensified strikes on international shipping amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, seized the vessel and later destroyed it. At the time, the ship carried crew members from India, the Philippines, Russia, and Greece. Four crew members were killed in the assault, while six -- including Augustin from Parassala, Thiruvananthapuram -- were rescued by the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) and repatriated within a week. However, 11 others, including Anilkumar, remain in captivity. Anilkumar joined the shipping company five years ago through the Palakkad-based agency Ocean Group Overseas Consultancy. He retired from the Army after 19 years of service. Besides Sheeja, his family comprises son Anuj, a BSc emergency medicine student, and daughter Anugha, a Plus-One student. According to the family members, the situation in Yemen is worsening as the Gaza war rages on, putting the lives of captives under further danger. Earlier, an initiative by Kanthapuram Aboobacker Musaliar and other leaders had helped save Nimisha Priya, who is on death row in Yemen, from execution, as they have contacts with religious leaders there. Anilkumar's family said such an intervention is needed to get him released.

Additional Sabarimala Dwarapalaka peedam traced from house of sponsors relative

Pathanamthitta: The Vigilance wing of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has recovered another peedam (pedestal) of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols at the Sabarimala temple from the residence of a sponsors relative in Thiruvananthapuram, officials said on Sunday. A team led by TDB Vigilance and Security Superintendent of Police Sunil Kumar V traced the peedam to the house of a relative of sponsor Unnikrishnan Potty at Venjaramoodu on Saturday. The existence of the additional gold-plated peedam came to light after Potty in 2019 claimed that he had donated an additional peedam, which is no longer seen at Sabarimala. The revelation came to the notice of the Kerala High Court, which later ordered an investigation into the incident. Sabrimala Vigilance team then checked the TDB strong room at Aranmula, but could not trace the peedam. The issue resurfaced when the Kerala High Court bench recently ordered a probe, noticing a reduction in the weight of the gold-clad copper plates of the Dwarapalakas. Sources said the peedam had actually been kept at the residence of one of Pottys workers. After media reports about the missing peedam, the worker informed Potty that it was in his custody. It was then shifted to the house of Pottys relative in Venjaramoodu, sources said. During a recent interrogation, the worker confessed to having the peedam in his possession, which eventually led to its recovery, they added. Confirming the development, Vigilance SP Sunil Kumar told PTI that, We have recovered the peedam and shifted it to Sabarimala. A detailed report will be filed before the Kerala High Court on Monday when it considers the case. TDB President P S Prasanth also confirmed the recovery. It was after a detailed investigation by our Vigilance team that the peedam was traced. As the case is before the court, further details cannot be revealed at this time, he told PTI.

In war or climate crisis, humanity needs cooperation, communion, says Mata Amritanandamayi

KOLLAM: The 72nd birthday of Mata Amritanandamayi was celebrated on the Amritapuri campus in Kollam on Saturday. In her address, Amma stressed the need for love, selflessness and unity, while voicing concern over the negative influences on todays youth. She urged parents to instil strong moral values in their children. During any adverse situation, be it war or climate change, it is important for humankind to foster cooperation, companionship, and communion, she said. When we pursue education, we must realise that it has no value if it cannot instil moral values in our children. Parents must become role models for their children. Only then can we create moral values in them, she said. The celebrations began at 5 am with a Ganapati homam, followed by the Lalita Sahasranama Archana. Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, vice-chairman of the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, led a satsang at 7.30 am the ashrams main prayer hall. Amma arrived at 9 am and greeted devotees. Later, Guru Paduka Puja was performed under the guidance of Swami Amritaswarupananda. She also presented the Amritakeerthi Puraskaram to writer P R Nathan. BJP national president and Union Health Minister J P Nadda, who attended the event, praised Ammas unconditional love and service to humanity. Her life is dedicated to society. Her service is not just limited to India but extends worldwide, he said. Governor Rajendra Arlekar garlands Mata Amritanandamayi | pics: b P Deepu I have been associated with her for the past one decade and must appreciate her intuitive contribution and service, which empower the marginalised. The active dedication of her followers during the 2004 tsunami and the 2001 earthquake was commendable. She has also contributed to providing drinking water and promoting skill development. I am glad her work has received United Nations recognition, Nadda said. As part of the celebrations, it was announced that free surgeries would be performed at Amrita hospitals and 6,000 toilets would be built for economically weaker sections. Union minister George Kurian, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Alappuzha MP K C Venugopal, SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, Karunagappally MLA C R Mahesh, Justice Jayakumar, Justice Nagaresh, Mahamandaleshwar Santoshanand Maharaj, Swami Satswarupananda Saraswati, Swami Gururethnam Jnana Thapaswi, Swami Geethanandan, Swami Vishalananda Giri, former union ministers Prakash Javadekar and V Muraleedharan, former governor Kummanam Rajasekharan and several other dignitaries attended the ceremony. Kerala Culture and Youth Affairs Minister Saji Cherian, CEO of Express Publications (Madurai) Pvt Ltd Lakshmi Menon along with other dignitaries at the event. Kerala govt honours Mata Amritanandamayi Devi As part of Mata Amritanandamayi Devis 72nd birthday celebrations, the Kerala government paid tribute to her during the silver jubilee of her historic address in Malayalam at the United Nations General Assembly. During the event, which was held at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham campus, Amritapuri, Kerala Culture and Youth Affairs minister Saji Cherian said, Amma has shown the strength of Malayalam language and culture to the entire world. Her use of Malayalam on the global stage was also a powerful message to those who neglect their mother tongue, he said. Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas noted that Ammas words in Malayalam at the UN remain a reminder for all to live with love and brotherhood.

Nadda: Kerala will get AIIMS at right time, place

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP national president J P Nadda on Saturday assured that an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will be established in Kerala. He was addressing the BJP state executive committee meeting in Kollam, which underlined the importance of the upcoming local body polls and called upon workers to carry the partys development message to every household. We understand Keralas demand for an AIIMS. I assure you that the state will get it at the right time and in the right place, Nadda said. Launching sharp criticism against the ruling LDF and the opposition UDF, Nadda declared that every major development project in Kerala was driven by the Modi government. Be it railways, airports, highways, the water metro or the shipping industry-whatever development you see in Kerala has happened because of Modi, he asserted. Nadda also criticised the state for blocking central health initiatives, pointing out that the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY was not implemented in Kerala. Centres nod awaited for AIIMS in state, says Veena George Kochi: Amid uncertainty over the location of the proposed All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala, Health Minister Veena George on Saturday said the state should not be denied the project. Addressing the media in Kochi, she said only a political decision was pending. On the project status, the minister said that the Centres decision was awaited and that a political decision should be taken at the earliest.

Kerala Governor Arlekar inaugurates second edition of Sammohan in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Governor Rajendra Arlekar on Saturday inaugurated Sammohan 2025, the second edition of a national festival that celebrates the creativity and resilience of children with disabilities. As many as 200 participants from eight states are taking part in the two-day event hosted at the Different Art Centre (DAC). The festival offers a platform for children to showcase their abilities in classical dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and magic. Special schools, national award-winning performers, and disability organisations are part of the event. These are our children, and I want to learn from them. They are teaching us how to face challenges with courage. Raj Bhavan is always with you on this journey, said the Governor in his inaugural speech. Sammohan is a movement that celebrates the spirit and strength of these children. With the encouragement of the Honble Governor, we are inspired to take this initiative to greater heights, said Different Art Centre founder and executive director Gopinath Muthukad.

Thiruvananthapuram's clogged Parvathy Puthanar aggravates flooding in nearby wards

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Parvathy Puthanar, the 18.5-km canal stretching from Kovalam to Akkulam, continues to lie choked with waste, weeds, and sewage, aggravating flooding in residential wards during heavy rainfall. Despite recurring flooding, pollution and a suo motu intervention by the Kerala State Human Rights Commission, the rejuvenation of the canal project drags on, making the capital vulnerable to flooding. In April 2025, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission registered a case suo motu, ordering a pre-monsoon sanitation drive in Parvathy Puthanar and connected canals. It directed the district collector to coordinate agencies including the DDMA, Inland Navigation, PWD, Irrigation and use of the disaster management fund for cleaning operations within a deadline. However, nothing much has happened on the ground and the heavy rain that marooned the capital on Friday is another reminder for the authorities concerned to take up the cleaning activities. The entire stretch of the canal is clogged with floating garbage and water hyacinth. On Friday, after the opening of the Veli breakwater, the overflowing canal pushed waste into residential areas in the surrounding areas. The Inland Navigation Department had submitted a proposal of Rs 67 lakh for cleaning. Earlier this year, the DDMA (district disaster management authority) sanctioned Rs 12 lakh to clear a 700-metre stretch from Munnatumukku to the SM Lock. An official of the Coastal Shipping and Inland Navigation Department said that the work launched in July was completed last month. We are waiting for funds from DDMA and once administrative sanction is accorded we will immediately launch the work and will be able to complete it within a month or two, said an official of Inland Navigation Department. Parvathy Puthanar is part of the West Coast Canal, which is being upgraded and integrated with the National Waterways. Waste dumping is a major issue and there is no respite in dumping even after introducing door-to-door waste collection in the area. The civic body has decided to step up surveillance to curb dumping. As part of the national waterways project, we have started removing houses and other structures from the bank of the canal and once it is completed there will be less dumping in the canal, said the official. The district administration has asked the City Corporation to help find land for handling waste removed from the canal. A DDMA official said that the work will begin immediately. There are issues and we need to ensure that the waste and debris removed from the canal are properly handled and will not get dumped elsewhere without scientific disposal, said the official.

Mohanlal: Crowning the magician

Mohanlals acceptance speech after receiving this years prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke award, Indias highest award in cinema, culminated with the linesEnte athmavinte spandhanam aanu cinema, which translates to Cinema is the heartbeat of my soul. It succinctly represented a man who has lived, breathed, and given his all to cinema for almost five decades now. At 65, the veteran is still busy delivering masterclass performances, while also rewriting box office recordssomething that has been a hallmark of his career. He is that rare superstar actor who can wreak havoc in movie halls with a casual moustache twirl and, at the same time, tug millions of heartstrings with a misty eye, quivering lip, and trembling hands. Some say that even his fingers act, but if asked, Mohanlal would casually chuckle, droop his shoulder even lower, and say that it is all just... magic. When a social media user, unaware of Mohanlals filmography, asked netizens to name a few of his best works after it was announced that the veteran was bestowed the honour, internet had a field day. Some mentioned Sadayam (1992), where he managed to perfect the state of extreme paranoia. Some others said Mohanlals performance as an anguished Kathakali artist in Vanaprastham (1999) was his best. Some believed that his representation of the fragile decline of an Alzheimers patient in Thanmathra (2005) was his tour de force. And then, many listed the emotional beats he effortlessly traversed in the dramas of the 80s and 90s, his immaculate penchant for humour in films that are intertwined in the DNA of every Malayali, and then a few. But how did he manage to do all this and much more? We dont know. Neither does he. Its unbelievable how this shy, reticent man who struggles to articulate his thoughts transforms effortlessly into larger-than-life alpha characters or an everyman we recognise in ourselves. Magic, perhaps? Craft meets greatness: Phalke for Mohanlal Mohanlal is the first actor from Kerala to be honoured with the Dadasaheb award. The previous winner from the state was legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan. Mohanlal has underlined why he is one of the biggest cultural ambassadors of the state and its cinematic legacy. From his humble beginnings in the streets of Thiruvananthapuram to standing tall as a national icon, Mohanlal has had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with some of the greatest actors. Even as debates swirl about why he was chosen over other deserving names, those very peersMammootty, Kamal Haasan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Chiranjeeviwere among the first to celebrate his feat. Thats is one thing about Mohanlal. He never brags nor revels in achievements. And yet, he is universally adored and respected in cinema. Thats why he condenses his achievements, process, adulation, and even fandom in two words: Blessing... magic. Theres a section trying hard to link the award to his political inclinations. But Mohanlals legacy speaks louder than that clamour. His contributions to cinema have earned him multiple National and State-level film awards, two of Indias highest civilian awards, and even the distinction of being bestowed with the title of Lt Colonel in the Territorial Army. There remains very little left for him to achieve. When a reporter asked him what he was going to do next, considering he has achieved everything in this field, he said... I hope I get the chance to continue acting. In his career across multiple languages and genres, there arent many roles that Mohanlal hasnt performedsuper cops, gangsters, and warriors. But what he does best, or perhaps what people love to see from him, is his common man avatar, for he is the personification of an everyday Malayali. Every time he sheds his larger-than-life image to become a naatinpuram Malayali, the audience embraces him. And what does Dadasaheb Phalke award mean to a man who has done everything? Like Mammootty, his co-architect of a defining era in Malayalam cinema, put it, A truly deserving crown A Kireedam (crown) for Keralas slanting wonder.term impact of the movement.

INTERVIEW | Covid increases heart attack risk, especially among youth: Dr T K Jayakumar

Dr T K Jayakumar, medical superintendent of Government Medical College, Kottayam, and professor and head of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, has transformed the department into a centre of excellence in cardiac care. From pioneering pediatric heart surgery and transplants in Keralas government sector to performing over 2,000 heart surgeries annually, his contributions are unmatched. He spoke to TNIE about Kerala being the capital of lifestyle diseases, the importance of convergence of modern and traditional systems of medicine, and also how he never regretted his decision to stay in the public health system. Excerpts During the early 1990s, when cardiothoracic surgery was not that popular, what inspired you to choose such a stressful field? I was a 1986 batch MBBS student, and during house surgency in 1991, I worked under Dr Chandran Mohan and Dr Kiran Kumar. Their dedication and skill deeply influenced me. Cardiac surgery requires both medical and surgical expertise, with complex diagnosis, planning, and execution. This challenge, along with their inspiration, led me to choose the specialty. Its said you decided to serve in the government sector because of your personal experiences. Given the many challenges in government hospitals, such as a lack of facilities, how has the journey been? I come from the village of Kidangoor in Kottayam. Even as an MBBS student, villagers sought my help in accessing medical care, which nurtured my desire to serve locally. Despite warnings about poor facilities in government hospitals, I believed our people deserved care closer to home. That conviction, strengthened by a personal loss, pushed me to build facilities at the Kottayam medical college. Studies show that post-Covid, heart disease and deaths have risen, especially in younger patients. Can you share that personal incident? After my marriage in 1997, our first child developed breathing problems from neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. At the time, ventilation facilities werent available in Kottayam, and surfactant treatment was unaffordable. Tragically, we lost the child. That incident convinced me that Kottayam must have facilities to manage such emergencies, and to work for it became my mission. Despite receiving numerous offers from the private sector, you chose to remain in the government sector. Do you regret that decision? No. I knew government service meant lower pay, political hurdles, and bureaucratic obstacles. I accepted those realities when I joined. Though challenges remain, I believe commitment requires perseverance. I set myself a clear goal and pursue it. If one path is blocked, I find another. Ive never felt that staying here was a mistake. Whats the status of cardiothoracic surgery in Kerala, both in the public and private sectors? Is it as advanced as in the rest of the world? Kerala has high health awareness and good screening at primary and secondary levels. Routine procedures like bypass surgeries, valve replacements, and congenital treatments are accessible, especially in government hospitals. But advanced care LV assist devices, ECMO, or heart failure treatments can cost over Rs 1 crore. For middle-class families, one complicated hospitalisation can cause financial ruin. Social security support for cardiac disease is still lacking. Kerala has high health awareness and good screening at primary and secondary levels. Has there been a significant qualitative improvement in treatment facilities here? Yes. At a recent interventional cardiology meet in Canada, the Kottayam Medical College was noted for performing the highest number of primary angioplasties, proving Keralas leading role despite a Covid dip. Primary angioplasty needs advanced facilities, trained personnel, and strong commitment all of which exist here. Kottayam now treats all cardiac conditions, trains surgeons from across India, and faculty are invited overseas. Still, advanced care like prolonged ECMO or LVSS devices remains a challenge. Kerala has the best healthcare system in the country. But Kerala is also the capital of all diseases. How do you explain this huge contradiction? Prevention depends on diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Unfortunately, Malayalis have shifted to fast foods and bakery products high in trans fats. These poor food habits, more than lack of care, explain why lifestyle diseases are so common despite Keralas strong healthcare system. Whats a good diet? A healthy diet balances proteins, carbohydrates, and fats while cutting down on fried and processed foods rich in trans fats. Traditional items like banana stems and flowers once ensured better health, but are now neglected. Timing is equally important good breakfast, moderate lunch, and light dinner helps. Early dinner with a 10 to 12-hour fasting gap, as seen in diets like intermittent fasting, can be very beneficial. Awareness among healthcare workers has improved, thanks to programmes by neurosurgeons, neurologists, and surgeons, he said. Is rice detrimental to health? Excess carbohydrate adds to belly fat, which links to metabolic syndrome diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Among Malayalis, abdominal fat is common, largely due to heavy rice consumption. So, reducing carbs is important. Given Malayalis liking for it, does non-vegetarian food play a role? Not necessarily. The Japanese eat non-veg, yet live long. Red meat has proven risks, but chicken and fish are healthier protein sources fish being best, with the presence of omega-3s and calcium. Eggs are good too; yolk removal is needed only if more than two are consumed daily. Non-veg food isnt unhealthy by itself. With moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. In 2015, you performed your first transplant surgery, facing numerous logistical and medical challenges. Can you elaborate on how the transplant surgery is performed? Technically, a heart transplant is simpler than many other surgeriesblood is circulated externally, the diseased heart is removed, and the new one stitched in. The real challenge is logistics. The heart must be implanted ideally within three hours; beyond six, risks rise. This demands flawless coordination between the donor family, retrieval team, transport, and recipient hospital. Every minute counts, making teamwork crucial. Post-surgery, lifelong care and immunosuppression are vital. How do you connect with the emotional side of a heart transplant? The hardest part is that a heart can only come from someone who has died, unlike kidneys or liver where live donation is possible. Time is another challenge the heart must be transplanted within 3 to 6 hours, though devices elsewhere extend this up to 1224 hours. Emotionally, it is very moving when grieving families agree to donate. For them, deciding to stop life support while allowing the heart to save another life is a huge sacrifice. There are concerns regarding the determination of brain death, particularly following the release of a Malayalam film on the subject. Does this impact organ transplantation? Yes. The film and related cases created doubts about commercial interests and premature brain death declarations. Families became hesitant, and even doctors grew cautious, fearing legal challenges. If donor-side doctors lack motivation, they may avoid involvement, which hinders organ donation despite confirmed brain death. Do we have a robust system in place to determine brain death? Yes. Suspected cases are referred to a brain death committee with at least three doctors, including external ones. Tests and video recordings confirm the absence of brain activity. The process is repeated after six hours. Strict rules under the Transplantation Act ensure accuracy and transparency. The Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (K-SOTTO) has launched several initiatives. Have these efforts made a difference? Awareness among healthcare workers has improved, thanks to programmes by neurosurgeons, neurologists, and surgeons. Still, Keralas donation rate remains lower than Hyderabad or Chennai. So there is room for growth. Have the reasons for heart diseases changed over a period? No, risk factors remain the same. Smoking and drinking remain the reasons? Yes. But after the Covid outbreak, cases increased. Studies show that post-Covid, heart disease and deaths have risen, especially in younger patients. Globally, Covid doubles heart attack risk. There are controversies around vaccines too. There are two arguments... Post-Covid, inflammation and endothelial damage increase heart risk. Studies show long-term effects of Covid itself. Some argue vaccines contribute, but Covid infection itself is proven to raise cardiac risk. We see sudden deaths in people who go to the gym and stay physically active Often, its due to undiagnosed conditions, especially with family history. Post-Covid, younger people face higher risk. Lifestyle factors like stress, poor sleep, and diet add to it. More gym-goers mean more reported cases, though these issues existed before. You mentioned that 40 per cent of deaths are of people below 50 years of age. What are the reasons? Cholesterol? Yes, cholesterol is a factor. I operated on a 22-year-old who had cholesterol deposits despite being fit and active. Of late, there have been many gym deaths. How can that be prevented? Medical check-ups help detect risks early. Avoid heavy workouts after fever, as inflammation increases clot risk. Start gradually, ensure hydration, and monitor athletes closely. Smoking was a factor earlier. Has it reduced now? Yes, smoking has declined but heart cases have not. Many resort to vaping as an alternative. Is it safer? No, vaping and e-cigarettes also increase heart attack risk. There are doctors who practice modern medicine and completely reject traditional systems of healing. Whats your opinion on that? Not everything in traditional medicine can be dismissed. We are testing an ayurvedic wound-healing preparation with promising results. Oils like murivenna and some ayurvedic remedies, especially for rheumatic conditions, are effective. Even in my family, my mother benefited greatly from ayurveda. Do you mean to say that we shouldnt completely reject traditional systems, but combine them judiciously? Exactly. But with caution. The danger is when serious patients first go to traditional healers and end up reaching hospitals too late. Ideally, systems should complement but the choice must depend on condition and proper diagnosis. Are you suggesting that all systems must be integrated? Not blindly. Integration needs discussion, scientific validation, and evidence-based frameworks. Only then can we decide what works best for a particular condition. You advise people to take sleep seriously. How many hours do you sleep? (Chuckles) Around four hours. Right now, I cannot afford more sleep because of duty calls. Ive conditioned myself to it for years, with short power naps in between. For me, thats enough. Medical check-ups are crucial after a certain age. How often should people test? If you are on medication, test regularly. Stress can raise BP and diabetes risk. People above 40 should test at least once a year, more often if issues exist. A BP apparatus at home is useful to monitor and prevent complications. You are now in an administrative role. Does administration help or hinder your practice? Administration has its pros and cons. It helps implement changes and improve systems. But surgery skills peak between 50 and 60. So, administrative duties can reduce practice time. Its about balancing both roles. Each doctor must choose their own path. Dr Haris Chirackal of Thiruvananthapuram medical college has said youngsters arent willing to enter government service. How much truth is there in those remarks? Being a part of administration, I wont comment on controversies. But limitations do exist in a developing country financial, infrastructural, and social. Criticism is easy, the harder task is facing challenges and producing results within the system. How will you rate Keralas medical education system? Our system and training are among the best. But students must value commitment and responsibility since, in medicine, mistakes cost lives. Patients trust doctors as passengers trust pilots. We also need stricter regulations and perhaps better assessment models, like the continuous evaluation used in IITs. There has been a demand to make medical colleges referral centres. Do you think that will help? Yes. The casualty wing sees 700 to 800 patients daily, many with minor issues. This crowds out critical patients and wastes resources. A referral system would reduce overcrowding, improve hygiene, and ensure care for those who need it most. Is there any issue with creation of posts at medical colleges? The issue is financial. It depends on how much the government allocates to the medical sector. It is said medical colleges are following the staff pattern of 1964... Yes, thats true. Many Keralites prefer to visit a specialist directly. Does this pressure the sector? Yes, it creates pressure. Ideally, patients should see a general doctor first. But all health systems are facing the same problem. For example, some of my colleagues working in the UK have shared their opinion. The problem with the NHS (National Health Service, UK) is that a patient who approaches a general physician with a cardiac problem will have to wait for a year to get an appointment. An MBBS student who suffered a sprain in her leg didnt get an appointment even after waiting in the casualty for 24 hours. So, I think our system has many advantages. In many countries, you have to wait for six months to one year for an MRI scan, whereas we can get it done within a day. There are many advantages in our system. But there is misutilisation of resources, which needs to be addressed. Many confuse chest pain and pain due to gas. How can we differentiate the two? Heart pain may appear left, right, or central, spreading to arms with sweating or vomiting. But symptoms vary, so ECG is the best way out. Sometimes, repeated ECGs and blood tests are needed as early exams may not be clear. You have worked under many health ministers. Who impressed you the most? (Smiling) I worked directly with Shailaja Teacher and the current minister (Veena George) both are very committed. I also met (the late former chief minister) Oommen Chandy sir, who listened carefully and supported us with equipment. How did the building collapse affect the Kottayam medical college hospital? It was distressing as a life was lost. I focus on my work, not controversies. If mistakes occur, Im willing to accept responsibility, as my father taught me to do everything sincerely. We have heard that you are a devotee of Lord Shiva. How has faith helped you? Faith keeps the mind calm and strong. A healthy mind responds without harming others. Thats the essence of spirituality. Do you pray before surgery? Yes, prayer remains in my heart... its something I learnt in youth and still follow. Doctors face many problems, especially the younger generation... Yes. Long hours, stress, night duties... there are many challenges. And many are beyond doctors control. Its said the average lifespan of a doctor is less than that of the general population. Is it true? Yes. A Kerala-based IMA study confirms this. You spoke about the importance of following an exercise regimen. Can you explain your regimen? I do surya namaskar every morning for 15 to 30 minutes. Yoga has been attracting a lot of controversy. Some say yoga has no scientific basis. Your thoughts... It helps me a lot. I feel stronger and less lethargic. Research in India and abroad has proven that yoga lowers heart rate, BP, sugar, and cholesterol, and reduces inflammation. Why are fewer doctors taking up cardiac surgery? Stress, workload, and long training discourage students. It takes 15+ years to mature as a surgeon, unlike peers in IITs/IIMs who earn quickly. We suggest revising training to shorter, direct-entry programmes with better pay. With AI advancing, will MBBS doctors become irrelevant? No. Every patient and heart is different. AI cant fully replace doctors. But AI can help detect hidden arrhythmias, predict arrests in ICUs, and assist in robotic surgeries, though cost is a hurdle. Is AI being increasingly used in the medical field? Yes, especially in critical care and imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI). It improves precision and reduces manpower needs. Has Kerala controlled surgery costs in the government sector? Government hospitals keep costs low as profit isnt a factor. But weak insurance systems push middle-class families into debt. Many medical negligence cases are reported. How do we tackle this? 100% results arent possible. Communication matters. Errors can be reduced by adopting WHO-style checklists, like in aviation. Will AIIMS in Kerala bring changes? Theres a misconception that every district needs a medical college. The true purpose of a medical college is to groom healthcare professionals and such institutions should only be established based on actual need. For treatment, a super-specialty hospital is often sufficient. Medical colleges require huge investments. If theres already unemployment among doctors, expanding further isnt practicalmarket studies are essential. The same applies to AIIMS. It isnt just the infrastructure, but the work culture and systems that define AIIMS. If we expect excellence, it will take time to develop. Kerala is often claimed to be No 1 in healthcare. How do you substantiate this? Given our IMR, MMR, and life expectancy, Kerala is among the best globally. What qualities should a doctor have? Be humane, listen to patients, accept criticism, pursue excellence, and ensure safety. Be a good human being. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Rajesh Abraham, Rajesh Ravi, Abhilash Chandran, Anna Jose, Harikrishna B, T P Sooraj (photos), Pranav V P (video)

BJP game plan to counter Left shift of Hindu groups in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With elections around the corner, the perceived drift of the NSS and SNDP Yogam towards the Left has caused unease within the BJP. Though senior leaders remain confident that both organisations will eventually back the party, internal sources admit that a series of initiatives and meetings are being planned as a course correction. Party insiders said the BJP is also planning a slew of programmes to strengthen its base among minority communities. While the Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS) led by Thushar Vellappally remains a part of the NDA, Vellappally Natesans repeated praise of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has raised concerns within the BJP. Still, the BJP has avoided taking a confrontational stance against NSS or SNDP Yogam or BDJS. Recently, BJP general secretary S Suresh said both groups had every right to express their views. Any public criticism will only help CPM or Congress. Thus, we will take a stand carefully, and if there are differences with SNDP Yogam or NSS, we will resolve them, a senior BJP leader said. The party has also exercised caution in other sensitive matters. When Malankara Orthodox Churchs Thrissur Diocese Metropolitan Mar Yuhanon Meletius posted on Facebook in August about the absence of MP Suresh Gopi, state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar chose to avoid making any remarks against the Bishop. Similarly, though supportive voices towards the Left from NSS and SNDP Yogam remain a concern, BJP leaders continue to project that all is well. However, some BJP leaders believe the state BJPs active involvement in the nuns issue in Chhattisgarh unsettled a section of its Hindu vote base in Kerala. We could not ignore the issue; silence would have hurt our outreach to Christians. But our proactive role brought little benefit and gave the Left an opening to exploit discontent among Hindus. Similarly, on the Ayyappa meet, we could not fully expose the Left, a senior BJP leader said. UDF has no concern over NSS stance: Satheesan TPuram: Emphasising that the UDF has made no attempt to appease the NSS, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan said the front has no complaints or concerns over NSS's stance. Our position is political, and no force can change that decision, he told reporters. He added that there is no question of cooperating with the Ayyappa Sangamam organised by those displaying pseudo devotion, and there will be no change in that decision. The stand taken by the UDF is a firm, secular one. It is against both majority and minority communalism in Kerala. We do not believe in appeasement politics. The CPM is following appeasement politics. Now they are encouraging majority communalism. Earlier, they supported minority communalism. We will not support either, and the UDF will continue to uphold a firm secular stance, said Satheesan. Clarifying the UDFs approach towards NSS support to CPM, Satheesan said, We have not asked the NSS to support us. They are a community organisation and have the full freedom to take their own stance.

SNDP Yogam mouthpiece makes political statement, clarifies stand on Ayyappa meet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Close on the heels of SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan offering full support to the Left governments Ayyappa Sangamam, the latest issue of SNDP Yogam mouthpiece Yoganadam stands testimony to the organisations tilt towards the Left front. In a politically significant editorial in the latest issue of Yoganadam, Vellappally elaborated on the reasons why the organisation chose to support the Ayyapppa meet. He further explained why such an attempt by the Left front should be appreciated. Noticeably, the magazine features a cover story by Left independent K T Jaleel who tore into the Muslim League leadership for alleged financial irregularities. At a time when there are attempts to woo minorities, Jaleels article can be seen as an attempt to create suspicions within the community over the Leagues credibility. In his editorial, Vellappallly accuses back-to-back state governments and Devaswom boards for their neglect of the hill shrine. Admitting that its natural for a section of devotees to be suspicious about the governments intention, the veteran community leader says the state government has recognised the peoples sentiment. Questions are being raised on why Communists who are atheists, seem to be now concerned about Sabarimalas welfare. It doesnt matter if a cat is black or white, if it catches mice, he wrote, quoting Deng Xiaopings theory. He was, however, quick to add that nothing substantial happened even during Congress rule. Going a step further, Vellappally also pointed out that the government has in principle agreed to withdraw cases filed in connection with Sabarimala agitations. Meanwhile in his article, Jaleel listed out a series of allegations, right from online fund collection during Wayanad disaster to social security projects and fund collection to build its national headquarters. Instead of trying to correct its actions, each time, the party only tries to protect those who indulge in financial frauds, he alleged. Continuing with his earlier attacks against Youth League general secretary P K Firose, he questioned why responsibility for land acquisition was given to leaders including him. Majority of those who fall victim to such financial frauds are from the Muslim community. They are being cheated not by people from other communities, but by political leaders and prominent people from their own community. The League doesnt value those without money. Thats why everyone is trying to amass wealth, alleged Jaleel. The Left MLA also accused the trio of Shafi Parambil - Rahul Mamkootathil - P K Firose, terming them proponents of criminal politics. He added that by bringing in political terrorists to the public arena, Shafi has besmirched the great Congress history in Kerala politics. The article got ample support from political observer Adv A Jayasankars article that went on to delineate the undesirable transformation of IUML over the years. Noticeably in the current political scenario, Jaleels article has multiple dimensions. Vellappally has often targeted the League leadership. The community has clear differences with the stand taken by IUML on many issues. The article aims to correct certain misconceptions too. Speaking to TNIE, Jaleel said the article was given as requested by the magazines editor. Certain remarks by Vellappally were misinterpreted as those against the community. In fact the remarks were made against the current IUML leadership, not against the community, said Jaleel.

JP Nadda visits Kerala to attend Mata Amritanandamayis birth anniversary

BJP President and Union Minister JP Nadda arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to attend Mata Amritanandamayis 72nd birth anniversary celebrations in Kollam. He will also meet BJP leaders to discuss organisational preparedness, local body elections, and grassroots expansion in Kerala

UDF is 'secular', not concerned over NSS stance: V D Satheesan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Emphasising that the UDF has made no attempt to appease the Nair Service Society (NSS), Opposition Leader V D Satheesan said they have no complaints or concerns regarding recent NSSs stance. Clarifying the UDFs approach over NSSs providing support to CPM, Satheesan said, We have not asked the NSS to support us. They are a community organisation and have the full freedom to take their own stance. We have no complaints or objections regarding it. Our position is political, and no force can change that decision, he told the media in Thiruvananthapuram. He added that there is no question of cooperating with the Ayyappa Sangamam organised by those displaying pseudo-devotion, and there will be no change in the concerning decision. The stand taken by the UDF is a firm secular one. It is against both majority and minority communalism in Kerala. We do not believe in appeasement politics. The CPM is following appeasement politics. Now they are encouraging majority communalism. Earlier, they supported minority communalism. We will not support either, and the UDF will continue to uphold a firm secular stance, said Satheesan. Satheesan also pointed out that the state government is shifting its stance on the Sabarimala issue. Pinarayi Vijayan had once said the government will stand by the Supreme Court verdict in the Sabarimala case, even if the sky falls, it has totally changed now. But Congress has never altered its stance on Sabarimala. Our stance then and now is with the Ayyappa devotees, added Satheesan. Further criticising the Left, Satheesan said the CPM has now become an ultra-right-wing party, chasing every caste and religion for support. The Ayyappa Sangamam was an utter collapse. Pinarayi was just happy over CM Yogi Adityanaths message. All the ministers enjoyed it. The fact that Yogi Adityanath and Pinarayi Vijayan are now close allies is the real result of that event. They brought in people who spread communal hatred and embarrassed themselves. Not participating in it was a relief. Had Congress participated in it, we would also have been a joke. I am relieved that I was not there when Yogi Adityanaths message was read, Satheesan added.

Man held guilty for abducting, raping two-year-old daughter of migrant couple in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram Additional District and Sessions POCSO court has found Hassan Kutty (45), also known as Kabeer, guilty in the case where the two-year-old daughter of a nomadic couple was allegedly kidnapped and raped. The court will pronounce the sentence on October 3. Hassan Kutty had been accused in a POCSO case earlier too. The incident happened on February 19, 2024. The girl was sleeping on the roadside near Chackai with her parents, who had come to Kerala from Hyderabad to sell honey, when Hasan Kutty abducted her. He took her to a deserted area behind BrahMos Aerospace and assaulted her. Believing she had died, he abandoned her and fled the scene. After the child went missing, her parents filed a complaint. Police investigation located the child the next evening, around 7.30 pm, in an unconscious state, near the BrahMos compound wall. She was immediately taken to SAT Hospital and her life was saved. A major breakthrough came from CCTV footage that showed a man walking away with the child. Over 100 CCTV cameras were examined before the suspect was identified. Hassan Kutty was arrested from Kollam on the 13th day after the incident. He had shaved his head and fled to Palani in an attempt to avoid identification. Medical examination confirmed the child was sexually assaulted. Hair samples found on the accused's clothes matched the victim's during forensic testing. Samples collected from the crime scene and from the accused's clothes were also found to be a match. Police then shifted the child to a shelter run by the Child Welfare Committee. The investigation was led by Pettah Police Inspector K Sreejith, who filed the charge sheet. The prosecution examined 41 witnesses and produced 62 documents and 11 material evidence. Public Prosecutor K K Ajith Prasad and advocate V C Bindu appeared for the prosecution.

Kerala: Mother arrested in Balaramapuram toddler murder case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Police have arrested Sreethu, the mother of the two-year-old girl Devendu, who was found dead in a well at Balaramapuram on January 30. Balaramapuram police confirmed Sreethu's involvement in the crime. Initially, Sreethu had only been booked in a financial fraud case. However, according to police, she refused to undergo a lie detector test, and investigations revealed her involvement in the murder. Sreethus brother, Harikumar, the prime accused , was arrested earlier. Scientific examination of the mobile phones of both Sreethu and Harikumar reportedly showed evidence of an illicit relationship between them. According to the police, Harikumar harboured intense resentment toward his sister Sreethu, feeling that the childs presence diminished the affection he received and was disturbed by her crying. Police sources also indicated that his sisters disapproval of his extramarital affair added to his hostility. Harikumar allegedly murdered the child because she became an obstacle to his relationship with Sreethu. In his initial confession, Harikumar had admitted to throwing the child into the well, police said. The case had reached the stage of chargesheet filing when Harikumar changed his statement, claiming he did not commit the crime. Following this, police decided to proceed with lie detector tests for both Harikumar and Sreethu. While Harikumar agreed, Sreethu refused to undergo the test. The childs father, Sreejith, had earlier alleged that Sreethu was involved in the death. The child was found dead in a well near her house on January 30. Police seek polygraph test for mother, uncle in Balaramapuram toddler death case

Senior paediatrician Dr Malathy Damodaran, daughter of EMS Namboothirippad, passes away at 87

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior paediatrician Dr Malathy Damodaran, 87, passed away on Saturday. She was the daughter of Communist leader and Kerala's first Chief Minister, EMS Namboothirippad. Malathy had been receiving treatment for age-related health issues and died at her residence on Sasthamangalam Lane early on Saturday morning. Her husband, Dr A D Damodaran, a scientist and former director of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), passed away in 2023. She is survived by her daughter, Prof Sumangala (Delhi), and her son, Harish Damodaran (Indian Express, Delhi). Her siblings include EM Radha, EM Sreedharan, and EM Sasi.

Kerala launches New Innings to promote entrepreneurship among seniors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: New Innings, a state government project to promote entrepreneurship among elders, has been formally launched. The government has sanctioned Rs 5 crore for the first phase, which will be used to provide financial aid, technical support and marketing backup to beneficiaries. New Innings was one of the two initiatives Healthy Ageing was the other announced by Finance Minister K N Balagopal in the 2025-26 budget to make the state old-age friendly. It aims to support elders having professional and technical expertise become entrepreneurs and mentors in the startup ecosystem. It is meant for citizens aged 50 and above with professional skills and experience, and will be implemented via the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM). With New Innings, we are embarking on a new chapter in which the knowledge and experience of our elders will not only ensure their own future but also motivate and direct the aspirations of our younger generation. This is the foundation of Nava Keralam, built on the principles of dignity, innovation and collective advancement, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in a statement. The project will help elders with domain knowledge and experience in various verticals contribute to the sustainable growth of Kerala, Balagopal said. It will facilitate citizens aged above 50 having expertise in different sectors to start ventures with KSUMs support. The project also aims at connecting startups with experienced professionals. It will bring roles to elders as professional consultants, advisors, board members and mentors. According to the KSUM, over 1,000 retired professionals could become advisors of startups and create at least 100 enterprises either led or partnered by senior citizens.

Kerala government updates Class 10 textbook with chapter on governors role

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In what could trigger a new row between the government and the governor, the general education department has released its updated Social Science textbook for Class 10, which includes the governors role in a state. The new portions have been included in the second part of the textbook, under the ninth chapter, Janadhipathyam: Oru Indian Anubhavam (Democracy: An Indian Experience). Sharing the pages of the new portions, General Education Minister V Sivankutty wrote on Facebook that every citizen who upholds the constitution should read them. The textbook introduces the topic by stating that the role of governors has always been a controversial topic between the Centre and state governments. An excerpt says, Governors are not authorities to control the CM-led cabinet, rather a friend and a visionary. It also mentions the selection process for governors. The textbook states that the role of governors gets more controversial when the Centre and state are ruled by different fronts. It says the governor is a nominal leader, while the state cabinet led by the CM is the real executive body. It also remarks that political interests can be seen in central schemes, which add to Centre-state issues.