Thrissur: Youth murders six-year-old boy for resisting sexual assault

Accused taken to crime site

Six-year-old boy found dead in pond in Thrissur; neighbour held for suspected foul play

THRISSUR: A six-year-old boy who went missing from Mala on Thursday evening was found dead later that night in a pond near his residence. The police have taken a 22-year-old neighbour into custody on suspicion of foul play. The child, identified as Abel, son of Ajesh, was last seen around 6.30 pm playing football with local children. According to police, the neighbour, Jojo, took the boy along during the play. When Abel was reported missing, Jojo also joined the search along with police and residents. However, CCTV footage from the area showed that Jojo was the last person seen with the boy, raising suspicion. Rural SP B Krishnakumar said Jojo misled the investigation during questioning, which further raised suspicion about his involvement. Police said Jojo allegedly attempted to abuse the child and, when the boy threatened to inform his mother, pushed him into the pond. Authorities said Jojo behaved normally after the incident. He has a criminal background and had previously been sent to a correctional facility. CCTV footage was instrumental in identifying the suspect, said Krishnakumar.

Panchayat in Thrissur to reap riches from fallow land

Sreenarayanapurams Tharishu-rahitha panchayat scheme will identify and cultivate unused lands across all 21 wards. Apart from vegetables, crops such as coconuts, tapioca, medicinal herbs, bananas, and indigenous fruits will be farmed

KDRB issues advice memo for new Kazhakam post at Koodalmanickyam temple amid ongoing dispute

THRISSUR: The Kerala Devaswom Recruitment Board (KDRB) has issued a memo for the appointment of a new candidate to the Kazhakam post at the Koodalmanickyam temple in Irinjalakkuda, following a recent controversy surrounding the position. The memo, dated April 8, has been issued to Anurag K S, a native of Cherthala in Alappuzha district. The development follows the resignation of V A Balu, who was initially appointed to the same post and assumed duties on March 24. His appointment was met with objections from members of six Thanthri families associated with the temple, who argued that the Kazhakam postresponsible for certain ritualistic dutieswas a Parambarya (hereditary) role and should be filled accordingly. Balu, who belongs to the Ezhava community, was subsequently reassigned to an office staff position on a temporary basis while the matter was reviewed. However, citing continued opposition and controversy, Balu submitted his resignation , despite initially requesting to be retained in the alternative post. The matter drew attention from several quarters, with many terming the objections caste-based discrimination. 'Kazhakam' staff resigns amid 'caste discrimination' claims in Kerala's Koodalmanikyam temple The Warrier Samajam, a community historically linked to the Kazhakam duties at the temple, also voiced opposition to Balu's appointment. Both the Thanthri Samajam and Warrier Samajam later filed petitions against the recruitment process, alleging that the appointment violated provisions of the Koodalmanickyam Devaswom Act. Anurag is expected to join the temple service within 45 days of receiving the memo. However, the Koodalmanickyam Devaswom committee has decided to review the matter in an upcoming meeting before permitting the new appointment to proceed. The Kazhakam post at the Koodalmanickyam temple, known for its unique rituals and administration, has long been viewed through the lens of tradition and lineage, leading to ongoing debates about the intersection of custom, law, and inclusivity in temple appointments.

From tragedy to triumph: Thrissur teacher earns her PhD after 11 long years

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Eleven years to earn a doctoral degree may raise a few eyebrows in academic circles. But when one comes to know the numerous adversities a 52-year-old teacher has battled over these years to achieve it, admiration is sure to follow. Meet Anand Lali Neera, an Associate Professor in the Civil Engineering Department of Government Engineering College, Thrissur. Recently, she earned a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Kerala. Neera registered for PhD in part time mode in 2014. Owing to her social committment, the research she chose was on providing a sustainable, green technology for improving the quality of septic tank effluents. While her research was progressing, Neera's husband met with a debilitating car accident and she had to spend months on end nursing him back to health. Soon, she developed signs of depression prompting her to slowly withdraw from her research pursuits. Battling depression was only the beginning of the long road ahead, A shoulder injury two years later and a severe dislocation of the lower back hindered her mobility, affecting both her teaching duties and research. There have been occasions when I took almost half an hour to climb a flight of stairs in college. Owing to depression, I had thought of quitting even my teaching job, But support from my family and research dean KA Shafi kept me going, Neera said. The litany of woes did not end there. Post the Covid pandemic, she was diagnosed with brain tumour for which she underwent a surgery. A few months later, the tumour was found to be non-cancerous. But it had already affected her vision, hearing and memory to some extent. Still, Neera never let those adversities affect her duties as a teacher. For me, it was a twin battle with depression on the one end and various physical ailments on the other, But I realised the best medicine to ward off depression was to follow my passion, which is teaching and research, Neera said. She re-registered for her PhD programme in 2022 and from then on, there was no looking back till her mission was accomplished. Neera plans to apply for a patent for the product she has devised as part of the research and intends to partner with Suchitwa Mission for its implementation. Her research was guided by S Ayoob and R Ashalatha Depression is one area that has been mostly kept under wraps due to its link with mental health. But like any major physical ailment, it also needs attention, said Neera. She is now pursuing two post graduate courses in distance education mode, along with her teaching duties, to keep her mind fully engaged. Besides Public Administration, Psychology is a course that I am pursuing right now. My aim is to learn more about depression and related mental conditions so that it can help me and also hundreds of those in a similar situation, she said. Neera also has plans to specialise in Clinical Psychology at a later stage and pursue it as a full-time vocation post retirement. Neera's husband Dr CR Nandakumar is an ENT surgeon. Her son Nirand Nanda, who is also a medical doctor, is preparing for his post graduation in Psychiatry.

Vruthi will address concerns related to waste management, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday said that Vruthi 2025 National Clean Kerala Conclave will be a platform to address the concerns and doubts related to waste management in Kerala. At the inaugural ceremony of the five-day conclave being held at Kanakakunnu, the chief minister said that the state has made significant progress in the field of waste management through collective efforts. He noted that over 61,664 tonnes of waste have been collected and processed by the Clean Kerala Company Ltd and as many as 89 lakh households across the state have been integrated in the digital tracking system. The chief minister said that despite making progress, some people still view waste management initiatives and plants with doubt and apprehension and the conclave will serve as a platform to alleviate such concerns of the public and peoples representatives regarding waste treatment plants. He said that the state has achieved progress in health and education through peoples participation and similarly the state aims to set a model for the nation in the field of waste management. Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh, who presided over the function, said that the governments goal is to achieve 100 per cent waste-free Kerala and this requires collective action. He said that the fire incident at Brahmapuram waste plant was a crucial moment in the waste management sector. Following the fire, the government formulated a comprehensive action plan for waste management for Kochi city, he said. Despite opposition and skepticism about the feasibility of a decentralised waste management system, the plan worked successfully, he added. Awards were presented to districts excelling in waste management, with Kannur securing the first place, Kozhikode second, and Thrissur third. A comprehensive report on the activities under the Waste-Free New Kerala campaign was released by the chief minister, and the vision document outlining the future of waste management will be presented at the conclaves closing ceremony. The event features exhibitions, model villages, food festivals, and installations inaugurated by various ministers. The inaugural event was attended by MLA V K Prasanth, MLA Kadakampally Surendran, Antony Raju, K. Ansalan, C K Hareendran, V Joy, D K Murali, V Sasi, I B Satheesh, G Stephen, and M Vincent, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran and district panchayat president D Suresh Kumar.

Anuradha Vijayakrishnan's latest work, 'One Day, One Morning', is a saga of sisterhood

One Day, One Morning by Anuradha Vijayakrishnan follows two pairs of sisters, each isolated within their own family islands. One lives under the shadow of an untold curse, while the other seems untouched by such darkness. But as the narrative unfolds, perspectives shift, exposing the fragility of memory, the weight of inherited trauma, and the inescapable nature of fear. While not a traditional thriller, the intense, restrained storytelling (mirroring the discipline of poetry) keeps readers hooked while denying them the comfort of resolution. There are no happy endings or clear victories. The sisters, even when they escape one form of terror, find themselves in another. Safety is an illusion, and escape only leads to new uncertainties. In a chat with TNIE , Anuradha, a senior director at VISA Inc, opens up about her journey from a chemical engineering student to poet and fiction writer, her storytelling approach, how she finds oases of creativity even amidst her career, writing process, and much more The beginnings For Anuradha, writing was a natural progression of wanting to read and eventually falling in love with the process. I was a fanatical reader. We had as many books as we had furniture, and most dining table conversations revolved around literature, she says. But I wouldnt entirely ascribe it to that, she adds. Reading and writing, for me, exist in separate compartments. The urge to write emerged during her time at Government Engineering College in Thrissur. It started almost shyly, diffidently like, Why do I feel this urge to write? Is this normal? she reflects. Soon, her mother started finding scribbles behind her textbooks. Everyone around me rallied behind it. Creativity wasnt frowned upon in my family, she says. Still, as in most Malayali households, the focus was on studying, getting a job, and Anuradha immersed herself in chemical engineering studies. But the urge to write kept pulling at me. The catalysts In 1993, a chance meeting with Kamala Das changed everything. She guided me, nurtured me, and made me trust that writing was something worth taking seriously. Kamala, who was also an editor at Femina magazine, published several of Anuradhas poems. Two full pages of poetry with my photograph. That was a big moment for me not just because I was published, but because I actually got paid for it, she says. Around the same time, Anuradha received a Spic Macay cultural scholarship which took her to Chennai. I stayed with a professor couple who were deeply involved in arts, literature, and culture. Through them, I was exposed to an even broader world of reading, she says. There, she discovered Israeli writers and read A K Ramanujan for the first time. That exposure to new voices, new forms of writing made Anuradha take her own writing more seriously. Soon enough, she had poetry collections and novels to her name, brought to life by indie publishing houses, which Anuradha says, really champions free-spirited writing in India. Triumphs, too, followed, the notable among them being her work Seeing The Girl getting on the longlist of the Man Asia Literary Prize in 2007. Cover of One Day, One Morning by Anuradha Vijayakrishnan One Day, One Morning When she set out to write One Day, One Morning , Anuradha wasnt trying to write a novella. The first chapter was meant to stand alone, just one voice, one moment, she says. Then, in what she calls an act of madness, she sent it to The New Yorker . Months later, I received a rejection but it came with a personal note saying it had made the shortlist. I nearly fell off my chair, she recalls. Buoyed by the rejection letter and feedback from friends, Anuradha returned to the story. I wanted to introduce a sense of social placement where this is happening through an observer who could also tell the story in a certain way. So I added a little more, and then some more. Soon, it grew beyond a short story but wasnt quite a novel. But I never worried about word counts. I write stories. If they add up to something bigger, well and good, she says. The fact that she had only envisioned the first chapter is very telling when reading. That portion is conclusive enough, but then as one reads on, you are introduced to new perspectives, new voices that challenge what you thought to be definite, the truth, thus lending a thriller-like quality to the story. But Anuradha admits that this wasnt intentional. My writing process doesnt really allow me to claim credit for such things. That said, Im fascinated by how human beings tell stories there are no absolute facts, only perspectives and observations coloured by biases, she says. Anuradha Vijayakrishnan On the craft of writing Anuradha calls it the train journey trope. Sitting in a train with a window seat, you see the scenery passing by in squares you see visions, and then ascribe stories to them, embellishing where facts are missing. When I write prose, I gravitate towards that style. One Day, One Morning essentially revolves around one incident, and then the before and after much like life. It reflects how people tell stories: This happened, and that happened, she says. Interestingly, the characters dont have formal names. Theyre referred to by relationships aniyati (sister), amma (mother), etc. I believe that as time passes, we remember stories, but names fade away. Also, naming characters feels like hard work, Anuradha jokes. Despite the initial difficulty it poses for readers, the lack of names renders a sense of intimacy that otherwise would have taken pages to achieve. Weaving in suspense This technique though Anuradha doesnt call it that is a double-edged sword and makes it so that the story is as eerie as it is intimate. Some readers found it disturbing, while others read it in one go. The story is disturbing because there are no endings its just a journey we step away from. Even when the girls shift to Chennai, I didnt want to give the impression it would change anything, she explains. Throughout the story, the sisters never seem truly safe. Even after moving to a new city, they harbour fear and seek the shadows. Similarly, the second pair appears to have inherited the villages curse. Their amma starts acting strange, and their father becomes unsettling. The way power dynamics work, especially for young girls, means someone who seems safe might turn out to be another source of fear. I was unconsciously recreating that prison-like atmosphere, Anuradha explains. If these are just two anonymous houses, how many others must exist? This could be the story of many girls. Anuradha Vijayakrishnan, writer & senior director at VISA Inc Im just happy that I can still write and that these stories and characters come to me. Writing, like any art, is a miracle a blessing Anuradha Vijayakrishnan Leaving things unsaid By leaving some things unsaid, Anuradha manages to tell so much more. Especially regarding what really happened to the father figure. There are hints of black magic, but nothing is certain. Again, Anuradha says this was no technique. I dont know enough about writing to use techniques. I rarely even call myself a writer! I simply write. That said, I didnt want to define exactly what happened, because speculation itself is satisfying. Many people have asked me, What exactly happened? And my answer is I dont know. I only saw what the characters saw. This vagueness reflects how small communities function stories take on a life of their own. In the story, what exactly was the curse? The reader is not sure. Maybe it was just alcoholism. Maybe it was something else. But we use terms like curse to make sense of things beyond our control. Sometimes, its satisfying to accept mystery. If everything had a concrete explanation, life would be dull, Anuradha explains. Sisterhood trope One Day, One Morning also sees Anuradha returning to the sisterhood trope, a mainstay of her previous works, especially Seeing The Girl . Its not intentional. It just finds its way into my writing, she says. Im fascinated by the idea of sisterly voices. I have a younger brother. Maybe Im compensating for that in my prose! she quips. Cover of Seeing The Girl by Anuradha Vijayakrishnan On juggling writing, career For someone juggling a demanding finance career, writing isnt easy. I dont feel the urge to constantly produce work. When I do write, its late at night, when the house is quiet, she says. Usually, she writes from her workspace on her laptop, guided more by instinct than by discipline. Now, with One Day, One Morning , too, earning critical praise, Anuradhas place in contemporary Indian literature is clear. Yet, she resists the label of accomplished writer. I dont know what that means. Im just happy that I can still write and that these stories and characters come to me. Writing, like any art, is a miracle a blessing, she says. Whether five hundred or a hundred connect with my work, thats enough for me. I just want to keep writing. Anuradha Vijayakrishnan's poetry and prose have won prizes at various literary competitions. Seeing the Girl, her debut novel, was long listed for the Man Asian Literary Prize in 2007. Her poetry has been nominated for Best of the Net and Pushcart prizes. Anuradha is an alumna of Western Michigan Universitys Prague Summer Programme. Laurels and recognition

When a robbers stylish shoes untied his grand robbery plot in Kerala

On a quiet Friday afternoon, February 14, the sleepy town of Potta near Chalakkudy was jolted awake by a daring daylight bank robbery. A masked man walked into the Federal Bank branch, brandishing a knife, and walked out minutes later with Rs 15 lakh in cash. It had all the elements of a perfect heist months of planning, disguise, a fake number plate, multiple clothing changes, and a calculated escape route through bylanes. But despite the elaborate preparations, the Kerala police needed less than 48 hours to unmask the man behind the robbery: Rijo Antony, a Gulf returnee from Asharippara. Around 2.15pm that day, a man clad in a jacket and helmet parked his grey TVS NTorq scooter outside the bank. He entered, pulled out a knife, and ordered the startled employees into a back room. Speaking in broken Hindi perhaps in a bid to mislead the man threatened them but didnt cause harm. He made his way to the cash section, grabbed bundles totalling Rs15 lakh, and vanished into the streets on his scooter. The entire act took less than 15 minutes. Rijo Thomas By 2.45 pm, the police had reached the scene, alerted by a staff member immediately after the robber fled. But he had already disappeared. Thrissur Rural Police Chief B Krishna Kumar and Chalakkudy DySP Sumesh K rushed to the spot and formed four separate investigation teams. One team scoured CCTV footage in the vicinity; another traced the vehicle using its number plate; a third gathered eyewitness accounts; and the fourth tapped into mobile data in the area. At first glance, it didnt look like the work of a hardened criminal, says an officer involved in the probe. He spoke in broken Hindi, suggesting he was a local trying to mislead. Also, he didnt harm anyone and only took Rs15 lakh, though more money was accessible. The CCTV footage, though helpful, added layers of complexity. The number plate on the scooter turned out to be fake stolen from another two-wheeler parked outside a church weeks earlier. The scooter itself was a popular model in the area, with over 500 similar grey NTorqs sold locally. Investigators decided to visit each owner. Many matches turned up while examining CCTV footage from houses across Chalakuddy, but one clip from a house in Asharippara caught the eye. The rider had a distinct pot belly just like the robber. However, there was a twist: the scooter had rear-view mirrors, while the getaway vehicle seen outside the bank did not. Still, one clue tied everything together: the riders shoes black with white markings matched those worn during the robbery. Armed with this lead, police fanned out across Asharippara. On February 16, officers showed the CCTV footage to local residents. Most couldnt identify the helmet-clad rider. But one resident pointed toward a familiar figure Rijo Antony. Police reached Rijos home on the same day evening. He seemed unfased by their presence. While one team engaged him in conversation, another quietly gathered more background. They learned that Rijo had visited the same bank days earlier to resolve ATM issues. Hed also been seen frequently in the area in the week leading up to the crime. Originally from Meloor, Rijo had returned from the Gulf and settled in Asharippara. Under pressure and burdened by a debt of around Rs40 lakh, he admitted to police that the robbery was his last-ditch effort to raise Rs12 lakh before his wife returned from Kuwait. Initially, he resisted. But eventually, he confessed, the officer says. He had studied police methods from films and news, thinking he could outsmart us. Rijos preparation was meticulous. He timed the robbery around the bank staffs afternoon break. He layered three T-shirts under a jacket, removed the mirrors from his scooter, and swapped clothes at an isolated spot after the crime. The fake number plate was discarded in a quarry. Confident hed fooled everyone, he even joined friends for a drink that night and participated in a prayer meeting at his home where, ironically, the robbery was a hot topic of discussion. He didnt show an ounce of worry, the officer adds. He thought he was smarter than us. But even the best-laid plans leave traces. And we follow every single one.

ED convinced that CPI(M) has no account in Karuvannur bank, says MP

ED had claimed that the Thrissur district committee of the party had opened an account in the bank in 2017 while K. Radhakrishnan was the CPI(M) district secretary

Thrissur man dies after being hit by lorry while trying to rescue stranded cat

THRISSUR: A 41-year-old man who tried to rescue a cat stranded in the middle of the road died afterbeing hit by a Kalathode near Mannuthy in Thrissur. The deceased, Sijo Chittilapilly, was hit by the truck at around 10.30 pm on April 8 at Kalathode junction on Thrissur-Mannuthy road. As per the CCTV visuals obtained from a nearby shop, Sijo, who came in a bike, parked it on the side of the road and rushed to the middle to rescue a cat. Although he asked the lorry to stop using the hand signal, the loaded vehicle was moving at high speed and everything happened within seconds, officials said. Meanwhile, the cat jumped to the other side of the road immediately, while the lorry hit Sijo and dragged him. Though local people rushed him to the nearest hospital, he was declared dead. Mannuthy police have registered a case and initiated a probe. Sijo, an animal lover was living in Kalathode. His neighbours shared that Sijo raise at leastthree cats and five dogs in his house and never leaves them at house unattended. His parents passed many years back and only sister was living with her family abroad. He do not socialise much, but we have seen him always caring for animals. He used to feed stray dogs in the place. Every day, stray dogs wait for him to keep their food on the roadside near his home, shared Divit, a close relative of Sijo.

Congress' involvement key in defeating BJP, says Baby

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ruling out any misconception over the importance of the grand old party, newly elected CPM general secretary M A Baby said on Tuesday that the opposition cannot unseat the RSS-backed BJP without the involvement of the Indian National Congress. The Congress has a big role to play in defeating the BJP. They too should understand this, Baby told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram. The Congress should come out of their old economic policy implemented at the time of former Prime Minister Narasimha Raos government and say that it was a mistake. And they must also make it clear that the opposition against communalism includes all types of communalism. The CPM will cooperate with the Congress wherever possible. He said many other INDIA bloc parties too have issues with cooperating with the Congress in certain states. AAP did not cooperate in the Delhi assembly elections. Mamata (Banerjee) will not cooperate with the Congress in West Bengal, he pointed out. On CPMs decisive role in forming the INDIA bloc, Baby said it is wrong on the part of some people to say that Sitaram Yechuri had done it by himself. It was Yechuris contribution as the general secretary of CPM. I will work to strengthen the block as the general secretary, he said. He clarified that the CPM Party Congress gave an exception on age limit not just to Pinarayi Vijayan but to P K Sreemathy and Mohammed Tarigami as well. Major challenges await CPM General Secretary MA Baby, both politically and organisationally Baby also criticised Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, without naming him, for having asked the former to keep a distance from the circle including Pinarayi Vijayan. The CPM has never allowed the BJP to open an account in Kerala. We closed their account in Nemom (assembly seat). However, in Thrissur (Lok Sabha seat), it was the Congress votes that went to the BJP. Moreover, the Congress had presented them with a Rajya Sabha seat in Rajasthan after K C Venugopal vacated it. The opposition leader was the one who stood before the photo of a Sangh parivar leader and he now criticises the CPM, he said. Baby also downplayed SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesans remarks on Malappuram. On certain points, he makes statements we cannot accept. The SNDP Yogam cannot reach any understanding with the BJP, he added. On the CMRL issue, he said: There is no question of impropriety in chief ministers daughter Veena T receiving service charge from a company in which the state government has a share.

Folk art form Garudan Parava gains popularity, but awaits recognition

THRISSUR: As performers hit the courtyard, dressed up as Garudan Parava with a lengthy beak and a majestic crown, dancing to the rhythm of chenda, the devotees stand in awe as if the deity herself has descended in front of their houses. Though considered as a temple art form in southern districts of Kerala, Garudan Parava recently shot to fame, transcending barriers, after being featured in a few films and rapper Hanumankinds song Run it Up which gained international attention. Garudan Parava ritual is performed as an offering to Goddess Kali by believers to achieve prosperity and peace in their lives. The performers believe that Garudan Parava would bring prosperity to the family which offers the ritual to the deity, and ward off all evils. When Goddess Kali gets angry, Garudan Parava spills three drops of blood in the end as an offering to calm the deity. The actual performance takes at least four hours as it also includes certain other rituals. Vibrant costumes, natural colours for make-up and unique crown set the tone for the performance of Garudan Parava. The Garudan dances to the rhythm of Chenda, Maddalam and Ilathalam. The performance begins with Vilakkath Parava in the house of the devotee who offers the ritual after sunset. After hours-long performance on the courtyard, the Garudan Parava moves to the temple in a procession accompanied by devotees and percussion ensemble. After it reaches the temple, Mala Kothu, the most popular ritual is performed. Mala Kothu is a symbolic demonstration of Garudans bid to kill the mythical snake Kaaliyan. A garland (Mala), which symbolises the snake, is used for this performance. The Garudan tries to kill the snake by pecking it with its beak. However, the attempt seems futile every time. Mala Kothu is the most beautiful part of Garudan Parava performance. It is the videos from this part which have gone viral on social media platforms. The Garudan moves in high speed in its effort to kill the snake. After its depiction in the rap song of Hanumankind and some film songs, we have been getting inquiries to present the programmes at temple festivals in central Kerala as well. Though Garudan Parava is not part of such festivals traditionally, due to rising demand, our artists have been performing there, said Vishnu, who leads the Garudan Parava Kalasamithi in Kottayam. Vishnu underwent more than a years training to master the Garudan Parava performance. He had trained in Kalaripayattu and learned Garudan Parava after seeing it in local temple festivals. Garudan Parava performance is a physically challenging one, as the body movements are very tough, added Vishnu. Since making a living out of offering performances alone is difficult, these days many Garudan Parava performers attend festival processions, showcasing only the major body movements like swift swirls in front of the flambeau that is carried in the forefront. While other art forms like Theyyam have received recognition, Garudan Parava is yet to receive due recognition from the part of state and central government.

Mayors council seeks creation of metropolitan planning committee

All-Kerala Mayors Council convenes in Thrissur on Tuesday to tackle the mounting challenges of city development amid rapid urbanisation

NIT-C to take up structural stability study of LIFE Mission houses in Thrissur

ED questions CPM leader K Radhakrishnan in Karuvannur Bank money laundering case

KOCHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday questioned CPM leader and Member of Parliament K Radhakrishnan in connection with the Karuvannur Service Cooperative Bank money laundering case . Radhakrishnan arrived at the ED office in Kochi around 11. 30 am, after being summoned for interrogation. I will provide the facts I know. I have already handed over all the documents in my possession. Let them ask questions; I will answer what I know, Radhakrishnan told reporters outside the ED office. The ED summoned Radhakrishnan as he served as the CPM Thrissur district secretary between 2016 and 2018, during which time the bank was under the control of CPM members. Investigators suspect that some of the irregularities in loan disbursement reported at the Karuvannur bank occurred during his tenure. Earlier, the ED had issued two notices summoning Radhakrishnan, but he did not appear, citing the party convention and Parliament session as reasons. The agency has previously questioned current district secretary MM Varghese and former minister AC Moideen as part of the ongoing investigation. The ED has already filed a charge sheet in the case and is expected to submit a second one soon.

People should say 'cut' to Suresh Gopi: Kerala Minister Ganesh Kumar

PALAKKAD (Kerala): Launching a sharp attack on Union Minister Suresh Gopi for his recent controversial remarks, Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar on Monday said it is the people, not anyone else, who should say cut to the actor-turned-politician. Responding to a question about Gopi's outburst at mediapersons outside Kochi airport recently, Ganesh Kumar stated, I'm not the director to say 'cut' to Suresh Gopi. Action and reaction are personal choices. But in the end, it's the public who should say, 'Cut'. Taking a dig at the BJP's Thrissur MP, Kumar--also an actor-turned-politician--added that it was not Gopi's mistake ut a mistake made by the people of Thrissur in choosing him. Asked about his reaction to the attack on Christians, including Malayali priests, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Gopi had lost his cool and responded harshly to reporters. Now I can only pray that something good happens for the people of Thrissur, Kumar said. He claimed that when the movie Commissioner was released three decades ago, Suresh Gopi, who played the role of a city police commissioner, used to keep a police officer's cap with 'IPS' written on it in the rear of his car. It was visible through the glass, as if he were actually an IPS officer. That tells you all you need to know, Kumar said, mocking Gopi. Neither Gopi nor the BJP has responded to Kumar's remarks. Responding to the cyberattacks on the recently released Mohanlal-Prithviraj starrer 'L2: Empuraan', the minister said the assault reminded him of he Emergency era. While criticism is part of democracy, it shouldn't take this form, he said. The controversy surrounding 'Empuraan' is unnecessary. At best, you can say the acting was good. But whatever is said now turns into a controversy, he added. Meanwhile, BJP workers waved black flags at the minister in protest during the inauguration of an air-conditioned waiting lounge at the KSRTC bus stand in Palakkad, arguing that a clean public toilet was a more urgent requirement than a luxury facility.

Director, actor T K Vasudevan passes away at 89

THRISSUR: Malayalam movie director and actor T. K. Vasudevan died due to age-related ailments at Anthikkad on Sunday. He was 89. He has directed the movies Ente Gramam and Viswaroopam. The popular song 'Kalpantha Kalatholam...' was featured in his movie Ente Gramam. In the 1960s, Vasudevan worked as the Associate Director in several Malayalam movies. He was also the Associate Director to Ramu Karyat in 'Chemmeen'. Later, he also worked in popular Malayalam movies like Panitheeratha Veedu , Kanyakumari , Ramanan, Mayiladumkunnu etc. He was also on good terms with prominent actors like Kamala Hasan, MGR, Sathyan, Prem Nazir, musicians Saleel Choudhari and Vayalar. Noted film personality Manilal made the documentary Black and White based on the life and works of Vasudevan, which later received a state award. His wife, Mani and daughter, Kalpana, passed earlier. He is survived by his son Jayapalan, daughter-in-law Sunitha and son-in-law Anilkumar. He has acted in more than 20 Malayalam films. FEFKA director's Union expressed condolences for the loss. The cremation will be held at 2 pm in his residence at Anthikkad in Thrissur.

Kerala Congress to address nepotism in local body poll candidate selection

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In light of candidate selection for the upcoming local body election, the Kerala Congress leadership is set to address nepotism in the process. The party believes that local leaders' intervention at all levels, from Mandalam to DCC, has resulted in political setbacks. The decision to address nepotism as Congress and UDF candidates lost in the last local body elections, after several defectors contested against the party's chosen candidates. We analysed the situation and found out that in those cases, candidates were picked by district leaders against the majority opinion of the ward committees, a KPCC leader told TNIE . He stated that close associates or blood relatives of local leaders were often presented as new candidates even after the ward committee officially came to a consensus. Hence, the leaders who were pushed away by local leaders contested the election and they became the spoilers for the party. We will not allow that kind of intervention. The KPCC has decided that the decision of the ward committees will be final as far as candidates are concerned. In any case where there are any issues, the DCC leadership will intervene to resolve amicably, he said. The benchmark for selecting a candidate is solely fixed on his or her winnability in each particular seat, taking into account the majority community in each area. In coming the local body election, the KPCC has marked two corporations--Kochi and Thrissur--as ones the Congress-UDF has a chance to win. Leader of opposition VD Satheeshan is given the charge of Kochi corporation while Roji M John is in charge of Thrissur corporation. K Sudhakaran is in charge of Kannur corporation, the lone corporation where UDF is in power. Ramesh Chennithala (Kozhikode), PC Vishnunath (Thiruvananthapuram), VS Siva Kumar (Kollam) are the other leaders. This is the first time top leaders have been given charge of the corporations. Sudhakaran, Satheeshan and Chennithala will also coordinate and monitor the works. If there is a need to replace a leader, it will be carried out without any delay, a leader said. The KPCC will soon organise a state level training for the selected master trainers each from the 140 assembly constituencies at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Development Studies on April 5 and 6.

22-year-old killed in wild jumbo attack in Palakkad

PALAKKAD: A 22-year-old youth was killed and his mother critically injured in a wild elephant attack at Kannadanchola in Kayaramkode ward of Mundur panchayat, Palakkad, on Sunday night. The deceased, Allen Joseph, and his mother, Viji, were returning home from a nearby shop around 8 pm when a wild elephant emerged unexpectedly during a power outage and attacked them. According to reports, the elephant charged at Allen, knocked him down, and trampled him to death. The body has been kept at the mortuary of the Palakkad District Government Hospital. Viji, who suffered serious injuries to her shoulder blade, was admitted to the district hospital before being shifted to the Thrissur Government Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. This is a horrifying tragedy. Allen, a diploma student, had just returned home from his ancestral house in Kottayam earlier in the day. The power outage made it impossible for them to spot the elephant, said Lakshmanan V, vice-president of Mundur panchayat. Forest department officials arrived at the scene within half an hour and confirmed the presence of three wild elephants in the area. Jumbo attack: Youths death sparks outrage The region borders dense forest, and wild elephant sightings have increased over the past week. We were already attempting to drive them back using firecrackers, a senior forest officer said. The incident has sparked outrage and fear among residents, who blamed authorities for their delayed response despite repeated warnings. Many questioned the adequacy of forest department measures and the safety of communities living along forest fringes. Malampuzha MLA A Prabhakaran said This is not an isolated case. Elephant attacks and crop destruction have become a recurring nightmare for the people. I will raise this matter with the chief minister and demand a permanent and immediate solution.

'L2: Empuraan' becomes highest-grossing Malayalam film, surpasses 'Manjummel Boys'

KOCHI: Ten days after the release, the controversial Mohanlal-starrer film L2: Empuraan has become the highest-grossing film in the Malayalam film industry, surpassing the record set by Manjummel Boys , released last year. L2: Empuraan now reigns as the highest-grossing film in Malayalam cinema history, posted Ashirwad Cinemas on social media on Saturday. Manjummel Boys , starring Soubin Shahir and Sreenath Bhasi, became the first Malayalam film to enter the Rs 200-crore club in 70 days. #L2E #Empuraan now reigns as the highest-grossing film in Malayalam cinema history. The new industry benchmark. This moment belongs not just to us but to every heartbeat that echoed in theatres, to every cheer, every tear, to you. Running successfully in theatres near you. pic.twitter.com/N5v7z7g84q Aashirvad Cinemas (@aashirvadcine) April 5, 2025 The makers of Empuraan also claimed that it became the first Malayalam film to hit the Rs 100 crore worldwide theatre share mark. Earlier, the film, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, also set the record of becoming the first Malayalam film to enter the Rs 100-crore club within 48 hours of its release. The film had triggered controversy last week after BJP leaders criticised it. Following this, the makers of Empuraan deleted 24 scenes , including changing the antagonist's name from Bajrangi to Baldev, removing the 'NIA' nameplate from the car, altering Hindu religious structures, and cutting a scene involving violence against a pregnant woman. The total removal of 2.08 minutes from the film followed backlash from the Sangh Parivar, including the RSS, who claimed Empuraan depicted the 2002 Gujarat riots without showing the Godhra train burning incident that triggered the violence. The makers of the Mohanlal-starrer movie also removed a thanks card to BJP MP and actor Suresh Gopi. Mohanlal - An Empuraan and his 'self-inflicted' cuts Following the release of the film, the BJP Thrissur District Committee member also approached the Kerala High Court seeking a directive to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in New Delhi to immediately ban the screening of the film in theatres to prevent further controversy and avert potential communal unrest. However, the High Court refused to pass an interim order banning the screening. The RSS mouthpiece Organiser targeted the films director, Prithviraj Sukumaran, labelling him the voice of the anti-nationals . The RSS mouthpiece also said that the film is anti-Bharat and anti-Hindu as it undermines Bharat's nationhood, culture, constitution and democratic institutions. Following the backlash, Mohanlal had expressed his regret for the distress caused, stating that his films do not intend to promote hatred toward any political ideology, organization, or religious group. During the last two days the Enforcement Directorate (ED) also conducted search operations at the offices of Gokulam Group and the residence of its Chairman, Gokulam Gopalan and seized Rs 1.5 crore in cash. Gokulam Gopalan is the producer of the film. On Saturday, the director of the film was also slapped with a notice from the Income Tax Department . Despite the controversy, the film continues its successful run. However, the film saw a noticeable decline in earnings over the previous four days, indicating a slight slowing in its box office momentum. With stiff competition coming up this week, it remains to be seen whether L2: Empuraan can retain its top spot, or if one of these new films will steal the show.

Thrissur declared garbage-free district

Heavy rain in Kerala till Sunday, predicts IMD

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall in the state till Sunday. Due to cyclonic circulations over Tamil Nadu and neighbourhood as well as South Andaman and neighbourhood, the state is expected to receive widespread rainfall activities with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty wind at isolated places till Sunday. IMD has issued a yellow alert for Idukki, Malappuram, Palakkad and Wayanad districts for Saturday. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (speed reaching 30-40 Kmph) are very likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala on Saturday. As per the forecast, rain or thundershower is most likely to occur in most places on Saturday, many places on Sunday and a few places on Monday. On Friday, a yellow alert was issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki and Thrissur districts. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Malappuram and Wayanad districts on Sunday.

HC directive to complete probe into Thrissur Pooram disruption

With its unique charm, Kannadipaya of Idukkis tribal artisans lands GI tag in Kerala

IDUKKI: Known for its intriguing design and light-refractive properties, the kannadipaya, a unique bamboo mat made by tribal artisans of Idukki, has remained unrecognised to the outside world up until now. Through its efforts from 2022, the Peechi, Thrissur-based Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) has helped the product land a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Being the only handmade craft from Kerala to get a GI tag, authorities expect the recognition to improve the livelihood of tribal communities engaged in mat making, besides curbing the misuse of the traditional craft. Speaking to TNIE, KFRI research scientist A V Raghu said that until recently, the kannadipaya, crafted by Urali, Mannan and Muthuvan tribal communities, was believed to have been made using the reed bamboo, belonging to the genus Ochlandra, ten species of which are endemic to the state. However, following the visit by a team of KFRI scientists and collection and close examination of the flowering branchlets, seeds, clump and culm properties of the species, the raw material was identified as Teinostachyum wightii, which the tribal people call njoonjiletta, he said The mat has a polished surface, which is smooth and reflects light like a mirror. Hence, the name kannadipaya (kannadi meaning mirror and paya meaning mat), Raghu pointed out. Anecdotes indicate that the tribal communities of Idukki district have been presenting the shiny mat as a gift to kings and other state dignitaries on special occasions. It was presented to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during her visit to Idukki dam in 1976 for its inauguration. The mat which usually measures 0.75-1.0 m 2 m is so flexible that it can be rolled up into a culm of bamboo less than 10 cm in diameter. It takes more than a month for a weaver to complete a kannadipaya, as it is made from the fine slivers of the njoojiletta. The bamboo collection is a full-moon ritual, with each expedition to the forest and back extending to a day and night, said Kumariyamma, a weaver. Kannadipaya made by the tribal artisans in Idukki Despite the arduous labour involved in procuring the raw material and production, there has been hardly any demand for the mat, and market returns have been poor. KFRI officials said the GI tag is an important tool for branding and conservation of traditional knowledge. The GI registration will help prevent the misuse of traditional goods as well augment financial gains to traditional weaving communities through marketing the unique product to other countries, an official said He said although the Unarvu Pattikavargha Vividodesha Sahakarana Sangam, Venmani and the Vanasree Bamboo Craft & Vanavibhava Shekarana unit, Uppukunnu are the applicants for the GI tag, the intellectual property will benefit tribal communities settled in Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad. The department has provided machinery and equipment to artisans in Venmani to modernise the making process, said Raghu, adding that the department has also initiated a project to repopulate T. wightii in the forest area to ensure the availability of raw material.

Sagar Surya: 'Joju chettan came like an angel when I was totally lost'

For Sagar Surya, acting was never the dream it was something that unfolded, piece by piece. From the long-running sitcom Thatteem Mutteem , in which audiences first took notice of him, to films that tested his limits, his journey has been a mix of chance and quiet persistence. Though his first film role was in Upacharapoorvam Gunda Jayan (2022), the Prithviraj Sukumaran-starrer Kuruthi (2021) which premiered on OTT ended up reaching audiences first. Though the latter was widely discussed, it was Joju Georges directorial debut Pani that gave Sagar the big break. The film truly demanded everything he had, as the remorseless antagonist that left a mark on both the audience and him. Despite the sudden rise to fame, Sagar remains down to earth. Whenever time allows, he still helps his father run the Thrissur-based familys small stationery shop a place that keeps him grounded amid the unpredictability of the industry. But theres a void that no success can fill, he says. His mother, the one person he longed to make proud, never got to see him on the big screen. In this freewheeling chat, Sagar talks about his early struggles, creative process, the challenges of stepping into darker roles, working alongside his rolemodels Prithviraj and Joju George, how Pani changed the course of his career and more. Excerpts: Could you recall the beginning of your journey as an actor? Back in school, I was not the most active or outgoing person. I worked really hard, thinking it would pay off with good marks, but I was still a below-average student. I wasnt into big plays or stage performances either. I did a few plays in school, but it wasnt something I was passionate about. After finishing my PG, I was pretty lost and depressed because I didnt get a good job, even after six years of hard work and ended up feeling really low. To clear my head, I joined a three-day acting workshop and, surprisingly, I felt like I could do something with it after the instructor told me that I had talent. That pushed me to sign up for a two-month acting camp, and from there, I started doing short films. At that time, my family wasnt well-off. After everything I had studied, my father still gave me money to learn acting. If my father had insisted that I get a job back then, I wouldnt be sitting here today. He supported me. At one point, I even got a visa to Australia and was planning to go. Thats when the Thatteem Mutteem casting call happened. I gave it a shot, got selected, and that became my first real acting experience my first proper acting kalari. How would you sum up the experience with Thatteem Mutteem ? It was a huge platform for me. I got to perform alongside legendary actors like KPAC Lalitha, Manju Pillai, Jayakumar Parameshwaran Pillai, and Naseer Sankranthy. Working on a sitcom was way tougher than doing a film. Theres no fixed script, one just delivers dialogues on the spot. Skilled actors can pull it off effortlessly, but for me, it was really challenging. I got scolded a lot during the shoot. I took way too much time with my scenes. Despite that, the team supported me a lot. In fact, there was pressure on the director to drop me from the show, yet he backed me. Luckily, one episode really clicked, and my character found its space. The set was like a home. I learned a lot, especially improvisation, which isnt always possible in cinema. That freedom helped me grow as an actor. My first film opportunity ( Upacharapoorvam Gunda Jayan ) came from there. Looking back now, its crazy to think they were, at one point, planning to replace me, and today, my old episodes are being re-released. It makes me elated. Did you ever feel back then like you wouldnt be able to make it? Oh, absolutely. I have heard it a lot, even back in college. I had 35 backlogs in my third year. Teachers even suggested I drop out. But I kept pushing through. Eventually, I cleared all my papers. When people say I cant do something, it just makes me want to prove them wrong. Thats how it was in acting, too. Did you have to go through an audition for your first film, Kuruthi ? Technically, Kuruthi was my first released film, but the first one I acted in was Upacharapoorvam Gunda Jayan , directed by Arun Vaiga and produced by Dulquer Salmaan. But just when the shooting was almost done, the pandemic hit, and the film got stuck in a pending stage. During that time, Prithvirajs manager recommended me for Kuruthi . I auditioned for it, and Raju chettan (Prithviraj Sukumaran) selected me. How was the experience of Kuruthi , working with the likes of Prithviraj, Murali Gopy and Mamukkoya? When Kuruthi happened, I felt like I had made it. Being part of Prithviraj Productions, sharing the screen with such great actors like Raju chettan, Roshan Mathew, Srinda, Murali Gopy and Mamukkoya it was surreal. I had good screen space, too. Raju chettan was involved in everything, and he knew exactly what he wanted from every scene. He didnt waste a single moment. Its that kind of dedication and passion that makes these people such big stars. I learned a lot from just observing each of them. Mamukkoya sir had this amazing energy, even at his age. He would sit outside and share old stories, crack jokes, and talk about cinema. What impressed me the most was how sharp he still was at reading scripts and delivering dialogues in one go. It was inspiring. How were the interactions on the set? Did Prithviraj give you any tips? Yes, definitely. Raju chettan is very professional and gives clear instructions on how to deliver dialogues and get into character. He provides the right kind of input on where to start and how to finish a scene. His guidance gave me a lot of clarity. We mostly had professional discussions on set. When I worked with Raju chettan, I realised that only by being completely focused on our work at an extraordinary level can we truly make a difference. I had the same feeling when I worked with Joju chettan as well. So, Ive taken that lesson to heart. I believe that its only by working like this that we can move forward in life. How did you and Junaiz get selected for Pani ? After Kuruthi , I didnt get many good film offers. Even though I performed under a big banner, opportunities were limited. I had to take up smaller roles and reality shows to look after my family and to survive. I knew that participating in a reality show like that could affect my film career, but I still went ahead. I usually avoid conflicts. I am the kind who would not retaliate even if someone hits me for no reason; rather, I would try to pacify that person. But in reality shows, one has to be tough and speak up. It was a risk, but I took it. It was a blessing in disguise as Joju chettan was a fan of the show. When he saw our activities on the show, he liked us. Our chemistry in the show is what caught his attention. When I lost the show, I thought I had lost everything in life, and that there was no going back. My life came to a standstill. But at that moment, I received a call from Joju chettan after I got eliminated. He appeared like an angel in my life, saying he wanted to meet me. I met him, and he briefed me about the story. I was ready to take up any offer, give my best, and move forward. Although I had acted in some films before Pani , Joju chettan saw me as a fresh face, a newcomer. A lot of people knew you as the fun, lighthearted guy from Thatteem Mutteem . How was the transition into negative-shaded roles in films? I have done over 500 episodes of Thatteem Mutteem , and it was all about humour. So, I was used to that vibe. But when it came to Pani , it wasnt just a typical negative role. Its a fluctuating character, and the audience ended up liking the villainous aspects. I have portrayed a variety of shades across different films, so I didnt feel pressured to break any particular image. Usually, in some films, there can be flaws; sometimes, the director might have limitations in conveying what they want. But with Pani , the entire team was brilliant. The cameraman, music, script, direction, art everything was on point. Joju chettan had such clarity about how to present the film. Plus, we had a three-month acting camp before the shoot. After class every day, Joju chettan would take us around Thrissur, make us sit at the [Swaraj] Round and make us practice the dialogues repeatedly. We dont usually get that kind of time and space in every film. But with the amount of pre-production and preparation we had, it became something great. Joju chettan put in so much effort, and that made a difference. Most of the time, one gets a script and the shoot begins in 10 days without really learning it. But this film had a lot of groundwork, which helped us get into character. Was there a lot of pressure working with Joju? Yes, there was a lot of pressure, but Joju chettan had taken on more than the rest of us. He was directing a film for the first time, so naturally, he had a lot to handle. It was a film shot over 170 days with a relatively huge budget. As actors, we were often in situations where the pressure was overwhelming, especially since we were shooting in public spaces. With such an experienced team, there were times we were rebuked. But after the shoot, Joju chettan would call us and say, This is my situation I have invested crores in this. Dont worry about it too much, stay focused. That was his way of handling the pressure. Also, he didnt write more scenes for himself in the script, even though he was directing. He stuck to the story and didnt try to make it about him, which Im not sure many people would do in a film like this. When it came to promotions, Joju chettan took everyone along not just the actors, but also the ADs, the chief associate, and the makeup artists. In most films, only the actors go for promotions, but here, everyone who worked on the project was included. After Pani s release, there was some controversy surrounding a reviewer who criticised the film Did the situation rattle you? Ultimately, we were confident in the product we had created. I dont think those kinds of criticisms affected the film much. Of course, Joju chettan may have been upset, as anyone would be. Everyone has the right to share their opinion about a film, and thats fair. However, sometimes comments are taken personally. Some people felt some scenes werent depicted properly. Many others, though, questioned what was wrong with them. Without that scene, how would the story move forward? That content was a key hook point, and it made people feel deeply when they saw it. People wanted to thrash us (the characters). If the scene doesnt have an impact, they wont engage with the film. Thats why the scene was shot that way. When the film was released on OTT, again there were a lot of discussions, but in the end, the film achieved what it set out to do. Violence in real life is increasing, especially among the younger generation. Do you think films influence this? If you take a film like Marco , for example, it is clearly stated as a violent movie right from the beginning. It doesnt make sense watching it and complaining about violence. We should not judge or scrutinise cinema so much, or we wont be able to create good work. Moreover, I believe it is upbringing, parents, teachers that influence one the most. Much like your character, Junaizs role in Pani also garnered attention. What was it like working with him? We spent almost three months together in an acting workshop, and I had known him even before that. Its always more enjoyable working with people you already know. When we were on location for Pani , we were not really allowed to interact much with others. Joju chettan told us not to speak too much with the other actors, as it could affect our characters. Are you saying you stayed in character throughout the shoot, even after the takes? Yes, thats the truth. We had to. It wasnt just about having fun; we were working with a lot of senior professionals, like Venu sir, who is a legendary technician. When you work with someone like him, you have to be on your toes. There were times he didnt like what we did, and we struggled a lot. The chase scenes and the climax shots were indeed difficult. Also, the first scene from the top of the building was particularly challenging for me. I must have called out to God countless times because I was so scared of heights. Even during dubbing, it was tough. But thankfully, everything turned out well in the end. What were the briefings during the three months of the acting workshop? Nijil (Das) sir was the one who really prepared us for acting. Everyone has their own blocks as a performer. We need to identify those blocks and do exercises to break them. By understanding these blocks, we can improvise the scenes more effectively. Often, we learn a lot without even realising it. The key is to understand how to act in a way that allows us to truly become the character in the film. Sometimes, you cant just laugh, cry, or express emotions naturally. Thats when we need to do a lot of exercises, like rhythm exercises and voice modulation. Did you have any reference before taking up this character? Joju chettan told us, We might think that there are no such characters in society, but they do exist. I have seen people like that. He didnt ask us to refer to any particular character or movie from the past. Instead, he took us to the local market and the slums to help us learn the slang. We had plenty of time to immerse ourselves in the character. Were there any opportunities for improvisation? No way! Even if I suggested, Joju chettan would jokingly say that I could do that when I make a film myself. He is a perfectionist, and had a grip on every minute aspect of the film. He even taught me the modulation of Don calling Giri ettan in a unique style. I had to attempt it countless times, both on location and while dubbing. Do you fear being typecast into negative roles? After the film, many people around me warned me that I would start receiving only villain roles. But in my case, it was the opposite. The films I have committed to and the roles I have been offered are humorous, family-oriented, and romantic. What was the reaction of those around you after Pani , especially since the character was so repulsive? The acceptance and the way people reacted to my role its honestly a dream come true. My mother never got to see me on the big screen. I had only one goal: to lead a good life and take care of my family. I went through a phase where I would take up media offers that paid me as little as Rs 500. My family never opposed my decisions, even the decision to pursue a career in fims despite having completed my MTech. They watched my journey through Thatteem Mutteem, Upacharapoorvam Gunda Jayan, Kuruthi, Kappa, Kasaragold, Jana Gana Mana, Jo and Jo but even then, I wasnt really going anywhere. However, with the release of Pani when my family watched the film, I could see from their faces that they were now satisfied, knowing their son had reached a decent place. My father runs a stationery shop right opposite to a college, so students would come there and compliment him for the role I played. Thats all I ever dreamed of. What makes me happy is seeing my fathers happiness. We have heard you were very close to your mother? Yes. I believe all my success is because of her. Losing her has been my greatest sorrow. If she were still with us, she would have been the first person I would share my achievements with telling her about the films I signed, the appreciation I received from Raju chettan (Prithviraj), and even the money I earned. Now, my father is with me, but I know he would have expressed his emotions even more if my mother were here. She passed away at the age of 45 due to an illness that had no cure. Talking about her always makes me feel deeply sad. How has the reaction been from the cinema world? After Pani was released, I had to go to Dubai for the films promotion. During that time, Empuraan was being shot there. I went to see Raju chettan, and he was really happy. He said he had heard a lot of positive feedback about Pani . Whenever I get a good opportunity, I make sure to message Raju chettan because he gave me such a big turning point in my life. Since Joju chettan has worked in the Tamil industry, before the film was released, it was watched by Mani Ratnam sir, Suriya sir, Kamal Haasan sir, and Karthik Subbaraj sir. I believe I managed to touch the hearts of many. Pani is a great part of my profile. Aju (Varghese) chettan said that no matter how many years pass by, this character will never be forgotten. Have you ever tried using your inter-state friendships to get opportunities in Tamil cinema? Before Thatteem Mutteem , I had received a visa to Australia. At the time, I had thought of using my leisure hours to polish my acting skills in Australian theatre while working there. I even dreamed of appearing in Hollywood films back then! Now, when I look back, I find it amusing how ambitious my thoughts were (laughs). After Pani , I hoped to receive more opportunities in Tamil cinema since such roles (like Dons) are highly celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Some discussions have taken place, but nothing has been finalised yet. I am praying for them to happen. The roles I am being considered for in Tamil, however, are mostly romantic and fun characters. What kind of roles do you personally prefer? Humour and emotionally engaging roles. I also enjoy taking on roles that require me to learn new skills. Right now, I am in the process of learning and improving my acting. Which are your upcoming projects? I have recently completed Dheeram with Indrettan (Indrajith Sukumaran). Another film with Shine Tom Chacko and Vinayakan titled Perunnal . And another film Prakambanam with Ganapathi. And discussions of some major projects are also happening side by side Team TNIE S Neeraj Krishna, Mahima Anna Jacob, Abdul Nazer M A, Vivek Santhosh, Anuradha L R, Manisha V C S (Video) Pranav V P, Harikrishna B (Photos) T P Sooraj

Hearty beats: Swaying to the timeless rhythm of Kerala's melam

The heat in April and May is intense, but even stronger is the fervour of festivals in Kerala during this season. And they are never complete without the pulsating beats of percussion. Instruments such as the chenda , thimila , madhalam , idakka , ilathalam , kuzhal , and kombu come together to create a rhythmic intensity that is intoxicating. Despite a generation more exposed to western and now oriental influences, when percussion takes centre stage at Keralas festivals, everything else takes a backseat. I have been to a lot of EDM and rave parties. None gives an exhilaration like our melam (percussion ensemble), says Vinod Ambady, a wildlife explorer. I left the corporate world to take sanctuary in the woods. The only thing that still draws me back to city life are grand melams. After a point, they become addictive even the noise made by ceiling fans will sound rhythmic. Management professional Bijeesh S also gushes as he speaks about melam. Its a fiesta. And yet, people go searching for rhythm elsewhere, he says. Its not just the beats its the entire atmosphere that captivates me. I go hyphy as the percussion crescendo peaks. Even my 10-year-old son now joins me in my pooram outings. This excitement spills onto social media, too, where numerous groups celebrate Keralas percussion traditions Panchari melam, Pandi melam, Shinkari melam, Panchavadyam, Thayambaka , etc. Online groups keep enthusiasts updated on festival schedules and the leading performers. There are also WhatsApp groups where fans organise regular sessions to revel in the beats, says Udayan Namboothiri, a popular Thayambaka artist. The history of melam can be traced back to the 15th century. Before that, they were primarily part of temple rituals, says Manoj Kuroor, a writer and researcher in Keralas ritual art history. The richness of Keralas tala (rhythm) schemes makes it distinct from the rest of south Indias beat system. It was originally a part of the tantric worship system in temples. However, after the 15th century, the artform took on an entertainment aspect. Initially, percussion arts were restricted to specific communities permitted inside temples. But when they moved to open fields, they became an inclusive spectacle where everyone, regardless of caste or creed, could gather and enjoy the thrill of the beats. Over time, different schools of percussion evolved, with certain regions becoming renowned for their signature styles. Peruvanam village, for instance, produced some of the greatest percussion legends. Alongside, the Kathakali percussion tradition also flourished. Even today, the doyen of Thayambaka , Mattannur Sankarankutty Asan, is celebrated for his expertise in Kathakali percussion. This vibrant tradition thrived until the 1970s, when interest waned, and the artform entered a period of decline. Many percussion artists faced financial struggles, and temple-related activities diminished. According to Thiyyadi Raman Nambiar, an artist credited with reviving the near-extinct Ayyappan Theeyaattu, the slump, which lasted until the mid-1990s, was largely due to socio-economic changes following land reforms. By the 1970s, many artists were embarrassed to carry the chenda . It was no longer seen as a mark of talent or respect, he says. Keralas workforce was shifting away from its agrarian roots, and many temples struggled financially. However, things began changing by the 1990s as temples found ways to sustain themselves. This led to a revival of ritual arts, with percussion benefitting the most, as its popularity resonated with the younger generation. Raman adds that he was elated seeing a young girl playing the kuzhal during the Meena Bharani festival at a small temple near his house in Ernakulam just a day ago. It is heartening to see todays younger generation returning to traditional artforms, he says. Social media has certainly played a huge role in this revival. Today, Thayambaka classes are being conducted for students in the US. The difficult years of the 1970s meant that many talented artists remained obscure. Peruvanam Kuttan Marar is now a globally recognised name, but he hails from a lineage of artistes, most of whom never gained the fame he did. The dark times held back many artists. But as interest was rekindled, figures like Peruvanam and Mattannur became household, inspiring younger generations, says Raman. Today, numerous institutions across Kerala exclusively teach percussion arts. There are several Devaswom-run such centres like the Guruvayur Vadya Kala Vidyalayam and Vaikom Kshetra Kalapeetham. Most districts also have private institutions catering to students, including professionals and expatriates, says Udayan. Among them is Shilpa Sreekumar, a UAE-based engineer from Chovvallur, who made headlines in 2022 when she entered her wedding stage playing the chenda. A member of Singari melam teams in Dubai, she was later joined by her groom on the cymbals and her father on the chenda a moment that went viral online. The evolution of melam has also contributed to its growing appeal, says Udayan. For instance, the differences between the Thayambaka schools Malamakkavu, known for its structured progression, and Palakkad, which emphasises imagination and improvisation are fading as regional styles merge, he says. Additionally, with improved facilities, melam has become a pan-Kerala affair, with southern regions enthusiastically embracing northern forms. Even in Keralas south, where Tamil rhythms once dominated, classical elements of the art are being increasingly incorporated. For Bengaluru-based Malayali investor Shankar Gopalakrishnan, such technicalities are secondary. For me, its time to visit home when melams are in full swing. I have been a regular at Peruvanam and Thrissur Poorams. This year, I missed the Arattupuzha and Uthralikkavu poorams. But I will be attending Peruvanam pooram on April 6, and Thrissur pooram in May. I set aside all other work for the poorams, he says, checking the melam calendar on an Instagram group. This love for the melam is innate for every Malayali, says poet and lyricist R K Damodaran. Songs can only be sung in three kaalams (speeds), but Pandi melam can reach four, and Panchari, five. This rhythm is ingrained in Keralites. Which is why there was a musician from here who could sing in six kaalams, and hence was praised by Thyagaraja Swami as a great. He was Shadkala Govinda Marar, from the community of temple percussionists and brought up in the mela padhathi (foundation) of Kerala. Due to this, he could easily improvise the speed. Beats, unlike tunes, are elemental. It is there in your heart beat. Generations will still sway to it, says Damodaran, on his way to attend the Nemnara Vela festival.

Yellow alert for 8 districts on Thursday; IMD forecasts excess rains in April

Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad are put on yellow alert

'Kazhakam' staff resigns amid 'caste discrimination' claims in Kerala's Koodalmanikyam temple

THRISSUR: A 'kazhakam' employee of the famed Koodalmanikyam temple here has resigned citing personal reasons, following allegations of caste discrimination. Balu, who was recruited for 'kazhakam' duties by the state-run Devaswom Recruitment Board, submitted his resignation to the Devaswom administrator on Tuesday evening, sources said on Wednesday. 'Kazhakam' refers to a designated group within the temple hierarchy tasked with preparing garlands and performing other ceremonial chores. The resignation of the Ezhava community man from the temple job has once again brought to the fore the issue of alleged caste discrimination existing in the state, especially in temples. Reacting to the development, Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan said Balu was recruited in accordance with all prescribed rules and norms. The government wants him to continue in the recruited post. We have already informed Balu that the government will provide him necessary support. But, he tendered his resignation on Tuesday, he told the media in Madurai. According to the minister, Balu has expressed his willingness to continue if he was shifted to a clerical post from the 'kazhakam duties. In the resignation letter, the employee, who was on leave following the controversies, cited personal and health reasons to quit the job. The minister also assured that whenever Balu wants to come back and join the kazhakam post, the government would ensure him an opportunity. A Devaswom Recruitment Board official clarified that the resignation was a personal decision taken by the individual and the board had nothing to do with it. K B Mohandas, Chairman, Devaswom Recruitment Board, slammed the stand adopted by the temple 'tantries' on the issue and said it was not befitting of a civilized society. Balu had arrived at the temple to assume 'Kazhakam' duties recently, but the 'tantris' (chief priests) lodged a complaint with the Devaswom Board, allegedly stating that they would refrain from performing their responsibilities if he was allowed to work. Following this, the board authorities temporarily reassigned him to office duties. However, the state government had objected to this and made it clear that the person from the backward community, appointed according to the existing Acts and regulations, must be allowed to work at the temple. As per government sources, the temple has two 'Kazhakam' positions--one appointed by the 'tantris' and the other filled in accordance with the Acts and Regulations. The ancient temple, situated in Irinjalakuda, is one of the few temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Bharata, the third brother of Lord Rama.

No concession during summer vacation: Ernakulam private bus operators

KOCHI: The Ernakulam District Private Bus Operators Association has announced that students attending classes during the summer vacation will not be granted concession fares. Thus, students commuting in private buses for vacation, special, and tuition classes from April 1 to May 31 will have to pay the full fare for the distance travelled. The decision is applicable across the state, according to the association. The regular academic year in Kerala for Classes 1 to 12 begins on June 1 and ends by the end of March. But many schools and private tuition centres remain open through the vacation for special classes. We accept the government-approved concession fares for students from June 1 to the end of the academic year. The minimum charge for students in the state is Rs 1. For a litre of diesel, we have to pay at least Rs 94. So, only if 90 students travel do we get the money equivalent to a litre of diesel. Students avail this concession even when they are ready to pay huge sums of money to their private schools and coaching centres. Bus operators have to suffer the loss, said K B Suneer, Ernakulam District Private Bus Operators Association president. The government should take the initiative to increase the student fares set a long time ago, in tune with the times, he added. Private bus operators had organised protest gatherings in Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kottayam in February, raising their demands.

Run for Autism Walkathon held in Thrissur

Kerala HC refuses to ban 'Empuraan'; asks petitioner to show FIR that the movie incites violence

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Tuesday refused to pass an interim order banning the screening of the Mohanlal starer film ' L2: Empuraan ' in theatres. The court issued a notice to the central and state governments and directed them to file statements, if any. Justice CS Dias said that notice to the other respondents, including actor Mohanlal and director of the film Prithviraj Sukumaran are dispensed with. The court issued the order on the petition filed by VV Vijeesh, District Committee member, BJP, Thrissur, seeking to immediately halt the further screening of the film in theatres in order to prevent further controversy and avert any potential communal unrest. He also sought a directive to the state police chief to conduct a thorough inquiry into whether any conspiracy had been hatched by any person with the intent to incite communal riots through the film. When the petition came up for hearing, the court asked the petitioner-- Have you watched the movie Empuraan? Was it not certified by the censor board? The statute contemplates that before the release of the movie, it has to be certified by the Board. The film was certified by the Board and released. What is the point in raising objections now? The court asked the petitioner to show any FIR filed by the police for inciting violence based on the movie. You (Petitioner) are precipitating it. You are unnecessarily giving publicity to such things. I am suspecting your bona fide. This is publicity oriented litigation, nothing else, said Justice CS Dias. The state attorney advocate N. Manojkumar presented the decision in Sebin Thomas Vs. Union of India to argue that once certification has been issued by statutory authorities, there is a presumption that the movie is fit for certification. He also submitted that as of today, no crime has been registered by the state police. In light of these submissions, the petitioner's plea for interim relief is declined. Post after holidays, held the court. 'Empuraan' row: Mohanlal-starrer undergoes 24 cuts, antagonist's name changed from Bajrangi to Baldev The petitioner alleged that certain portions of the film unnecessarily reference the 2002 Godhra communal riots. Additionally, one scene contains unwarranted remarks about the Ministry of Defence while portraying central investigation agencies in a manner that undermines their credibility and integrity. Despite filing a representation before the central government requesting immediate action against the film, no action has been taken. Since the film's release, multiple rumors and controversies have emerged, and its continued screening poses a potential risk of inciting communal violence and disturbing public order. The petitioner also alleged that the films director, Prithviraj Sukumaran, consistently targets the NDA government with the intent of tarnishing its reputation through his films. Furthermore, the petitioner claimed that Empuraan's producers, Antony Perumbavoor and Gokulam Gopalan, are already facing an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate for unauthorized foreign funding. The film portrays the ED in a manner that undermines its credibility and integrity, stated the petitioner. BJP Thrissur district committee moves Kerala HC seeking a ban on 'L2: Empuraan' film

BJP Thrissur district committee moves Kerala HC seeking a ban on 'L2: Empuraan' film

KOCHI: The BJP Thrissur District Committee member on Tuesday approached the Kerala High Court seeking a directive to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in New Delhi to immediately ban the screening of the Malayalam film ' L2: Empuraan ' in theatres to prevent further controversy and avert potential communal unrest. Soon after the release of the film,it faced a backlash from a section of people over some scenes, including ones seen as referring to the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in the Gujarat state. The petitioner, V.V. Vijeesh, stated that certain portions of the film unnecessarily reference the 2002 Godhra communal riots. Additionally, one scene contains unwarranted remarks about the Ministry of Defence while portraying central investigation agencies in a manner that undermines their credibility and integrity. Five days on, L2: Empuraan continues to divide opinion The petitioner submitted that, despite filing a representation before the central government requesting immediate action against the film, no action has been taken. Since the film's release, multiple rumors and controversies have emerged, and its continued screening poses a potential risk of inciting communal violence and disturbing public order. The petitioner also alleged that the films director, Prithviraj Sukumaran, consistently targets the NDA government with the intent of tarnishing its reputation through his films. Furthermore, the petitioner claimed that Empuraan's producers, Antony Perumbavoor and Gokulam Gopalan, are alreadyfacing an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate for unauthorized foreign funding. He asserted that the film portrays the ED in a manner that undermines its credibility and integrity. Censor Board could have intervened more effectively while censoring 'L2: Empuraan', say BJP leaders

New trend taking shape in Kerala as expats seek home away from home

KOCHI: Paul Johnson (name changed), a Keralite working for the United Nations in Vienna, recently built a 3,000 sqft home in Koratty, his hometown in Thrissur district. Though he and his wife are settled in the Austrian capital, they see their new home in Kerala as a place to spend nearly half the year after retirement. Our children see it as a way to reconnect with their roots. Additionally, healthcare in Kerala is more accessible, with shorter wait times compared to Europe. Many overseas insurance companies now accept bills from Keralas super-specialty hospitals, says Paul. He is not alone in this endeavour. At least 8-10 retired Malayali professionals with the UN have either built or are in the process of constructing homes in Kerala. The trend is gaining traction among expatriates who want to maintain a link with their homeland while escaping the harsh winters of Europe and North America. A retired couple from Vienna spends October to March at their home in Athirampuzha, Kottayam, to avoid the chill. Owning a vacation home in Kerala is relatively inexpensive, as most NRIs already have ancestral property. They can build a house tailored to their budget and needs, Paul adds. Beyond affordability, the state offers practical advantages. Household help, drivers, and rental cars are readily available at reasonable rates. Recognising this demand, developers are creating residential spaces catering specifically to the needs of expatriates. In Koothattukulam, Ernakulam, Angelo John aka Johny is developing guest homes on a 15-acre plot. We plan to build 10-15 homes on plots ranging from 5 to 20 cents, he says. These homes will be available for purchase or short-term rental by returning expatriates. Many NRIs prefer independent accommodation to staying with relatives. We aim to offer the full package, including food and recreational services. When owners are abroad, the property will be listed on Airbnb, ensuring maintenance and generating rental income, Johny explains. This growing interest in vacation and retirement homes signals a shift in Keralas real estate market. A significant number of Malayali expatriates who migrated in the 1990s to the US, Europe, and the Gulf are now reaching retirement age. While this trend is not as widespread as the construction boom fuelled by Gulf remittances in the 1970s and 1980s, it marks a new phase in Keralas migration story. Back then, returning migrants built opulent homes, particularly in central and northern Kerala. And, the new trend comes at a time when many of the houses built in 1980s and 1990s are lying vacant, especially in central Kerala.

IMD predicts widespread rainfall on April 3

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: IMD has predicted widespread rainfall across the state on Thursday and Friday. Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorm or lightning are likely at isolated places during the period. The agency has issued yellow alerts in Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad on Thursday, and in Ernakulam and Thrissur on Friday. IMDs prediction is based on the impact of a north-south trough that runs from a cyclonic circulation over Marathwada to north Tamil Nadu and an upper air cyclonic circulation over south-east Bay of Bengal. IMD has also predicted that thunderstorms with lightning are very likely to occur at one or two places in the state on Tuesday and Wednesday. IMDs extended-range forecast released on Monday predicted that the maximum temperature in the state is likely to be in the normal range for the April -June period. However, the night temperature is likely to remain above normal during the period. Rajeevan Erikkulam, a meteorologist with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority said that the state received 91% excess rainfall in March this year. Kottayam received the maximum rainfall (121%) followed by Pathanamthitta (59%) during the period.

Tiruppur MP meets Union Minister, reiterates request for six-lane expressway between Salem and Chengapalli

His petition emphasised that the highway is a crucial route connecting Salem, Namakkal, Erode, and Coimbatore with Palakkad, Thrissur, and Kochi in Kerala

YouTuber blocks Priyanka Gandhi's convoy for honking, arrested

In Thrissur, Kerala, a YouTuber was arrested for allegedly blocking the convoy of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The incident occurred around 9.30 pm on Saturday at Mannuthy Bypass Junction. The individual was taken into custody and released later on station bail, with charges including endangering lives and disobeying police directives.

Irked by honking, YouTuber blocks Priyanka Gandhi's convoy

A YouTuber has been arrested in Thrissur, Kerala, for allegedly blocking the convoy of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the police said on Monday.

Youtuber held for blocking convoy of Priyanka Gandhi MP

THRISSUR (Kerala), Mar 31: A YouTuber has been arrested here for allegedly blocking the convoy of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, police said on Monday. The Mannuthy police took Aneesh Abraham, a resident of Elanadu, into custody in connection with the incident and released him later on station bail, a police officer said. His car was also seized. The incident occurred around 9.30 pm on Saturday at Mannuthy Bypass Junction while Vadra was travelling from Vandoor, Malappuram, to Kochi [] The post Youtuber held for blocking convoy of Priyanka Gandhi MP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Commission calls for city-specific hubs, road map for urbanisation in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Constituted by the state government in December 2023, the Urban Policy Commission (UPC) has submitted its final report to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wherein it has recommended a slew of measures, including setting up of city-specific hubs to exploit local potential and preparation of a road map for urbanisation by addressing all concerns. The report calls for developing Thrissur-Kochi as the financial technology (fintech) hub of the state. It also proposes growing Palakkad and Kasaragod as industrial smart cities and the Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam knowledge corridor, to foster research and innovation. Kannur must be promoted as a fashion city, while Kannur-Kasaragod and Thrissur-Ernakulam should be leveraged as education-health hubs, the report said, calling for branding Kozhikode as the City of Literature, drawing on its rich literary heritage. Another key recommendation is the setting up of six directly elected Metropolitan Planning Committees (MPCs) linked to the municipal corporations of Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Kollam, Thrissur, and Kannur. According to the report, the MPCs will be responsible for steering the process of urban development in and around the respective areas. Planning areas of the MPCs should be delineated on the basis of population size and density, connectivity, ubiquity, land use, and other relevant criteria, it says. The report also proposed the launch of the Jnanashree programme, which would provide sustained technical support to institutions, covering technology, planning, management, finance, legal and other aspects at all levels of administration. Panel calls for introducing targeted green fee on urban devpt projects It calls for introducing a targeted green fee on urban development projects to fund disaster risk reduction initiatives, including resilient infrastructure and emergency response systems. Another key proposal is elevation of the steering committee to the position of city cabinets, headed by mayors. Initially, this will be implemented in the municipal corporations and a chief executive, jointly selected by the state government and urban local governments, shall be appointed to municipal corporations. The chief executive will perform the role of the secretary. The city police commissioner will also be part of the city cabinet as an ex-officio member, the report says. It also highlighted the need for formation of specialised cells for solid waste management, climate and disaster management apart from setting up city-level urban observatories. Another proposal is to transform state universities into globally competitive research and innovation centres and to strengthen the university-industry-government triple helix model. The state should move towards Industrial Revolution 4.0 by strengthening MSMEs, leveraging high technology and collaboration between educational institutions and private investors, and reducing the licensing-approval window to 7-15 days, it added. Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh said the commission has drafted the framework of a comprehensive policy that will address the challenges and opportunities of urbanisation. The policy will power the development of the state over the next 25 years. The government will now examine the draft before giving its final approval, the minister said..

Coastal Cyclothon: pedalling towards a drug-free Thrissur

INTERVIEW | Khans exit has certainly come as a relief: Kerala Higher Education Minister R Bindu

She has many firsts to her credit: Thrissurs first woman mayor and minister and the first woman MLA from Irinjalakuda. A nonchalant leader who believes getting trolled means being noticed, she has never shied away from speaking her mind. Days after the Kerala assembly passed the Private Universities Bill, Higher Education Minister R Bindu speaks to TNIE on the reasons behind bringing in the legislation, controversies around her statement on ASHA workers, and the Left governments changing equations with the Raj Bhavan. Excerpts The Kerala assembly recently passed the much-debated Private Universities Bill. What prompted the government to make that move? Over the past few years, the LDF government has initiated a slew of measures to strengthen state universities. In the national rankings, universities from the state now figure in positions from 9 to 11. In global rankings too, our universities are rated high. State universities are now capable of healthy competition. It is in this context that we thought of allowing private universities. What are your expectations? We intend to create maximum opportunities within the state for our youth. In a globalised world, borders have become irrelevant. A tendency towards migration can be seen globally. We are ensuring that our best students dont leave the state. The efforts to strengthen state universities led us to the decision to also use private investment to improve the higher education sector. More than 80% of the higher education institutions are private. Self-financing colleges were allowed with similar intentions. Now such institutions dont have students. Wont a similar situation happen in the case of private universities? The ruling dispensation should ensure there is no repeat of such a scenario. This government is committed, unlike UDF which gives unconditional approval. Only after examining quality and excellence will we give approval. The Oommen Chandy government had approved colleges that didnt have basic infrastructure. LDFs approach is different. We will ensure quality. Many students enrol in top foreign universities for the brand value and the academic environment. But such universities dont have offshore campuses in India... Oxford and Cambridge universities are not going to come here. If we examine the trends of migration, many countries are facing economic crises. To overcome this, they attract students from developing countries to their third-rate educational institutions. Many of our students fall into that trap. It also needs to be noted that some of them go out as they cannot secure seats in our top-ranked institutions. In our country, there is a sense of frustration among the youth because of the continuance of age-old practices and a feudal mindset. The new generation sees the luxurious side of life abroad but not the exploitative side. Now there is a reversal of sorts that gives us hope. Do we have statistics to prove such a reverse migration trend? We have 13.5 lakh students in our higher educational institutions. Besides retaining our students, we also intend to attract foreign students to our campuses. The number of foreign students has increased in Kerala. We are constructing 250 hostel rooms to international standards in each university. We are poised for a significant change. In the bill, there is no provision for foreign universities. We are aiming at private institutions within the state. In India, we have private universities that maintain good academic and infrastructure standards. Have universities like Jindal and Ashoka approached the state government? We have only started the process. The bill has been passed and the procedure to invite applications has to begin. When can we expect private universities? We will have a clear idea before the next academic year or the subsequent year. We have to make the arrangements before an academic year. By 2026-27? We think so. How will you ensure the quality of private universities? We wont allow universities without quality. Along with the application, a DPR and a detailed report on future activities should be submitted. Approval will be given only after experts examine the agencys credibility, potential, and possibilities. Will a private university come up during this governments tenure? If procedures are completed before the next academic year, a university will come up during this governments tenure. If the procedures get delayed up to December, it will be under the next government. LDF faced criticism for opposing private universities earlier. Critics say LDF is always late in recognising any new idea No. UDF spoke about private and foreign universities at a time when they neglected public universities. They destroyed universities. Neither were examinations conducted nor results published on time and they rushed for privatisation. But the LDF governments stand is different. Private capital will be allowed only in exceptional situations and there will be strong social control and vigilance. The bill speaks about control mechanisms. Will that be a deterrent to investors? Only those ready to accept them need apply. A highlight of the ambitious four-year undergraduate programme is student mobility, transferring credit from one university to another. How far has it been ensured? No bottlenecks there. It is a software-based system for enterprise resource planning. Details of all students of Kannur university have been included in the system. Other universities have initiated steps. It has facilities ranging from admission to certificate download. An academic bank of credits is available. Students can earn credits from anywhere and keep them in their baskets. They can also go for online courses. Credit is also given for skill courses. There is greater flexibility. In one of the recently-passed university amendment bills, there are provisions for greater intervention by the pro-chancellor. There is criticism that it has encroached on universities autonomy... Thats a malicious allegation by the opposition. Theres nothing new in the bill regarding the pro-chancellors powers. The pro-chancellor is second in hierarchy, after the chancellor. We brought some clarity given that the Union government is trying to impose its ideology on institutions. They have appointed people following their ideology in key posts to bring higher education institutions under control. A religion-based approach will get popularity among people. They are dragging India back to an era of superstitions and social evils. This isnt just an issue of party politics. They are crippling science education. They excluded the periodic table and the theory of evolution which is the cornerstone of modern science. They are trying to make universities a fertile ground to spread myths. I studied at JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi). In the past, the functioning of the university was democratic. It was a university of fertile dialogues. Now things are unilateral there. Secularism is inevitable at universities. It is our responsibility to protect universities. India has a diverse and plural society. We should resist efforts for homogenisation. Secularism is a prerequisite for social justice. We have to retain secularism and affinity towards science in Keralas universities. Is this a resistance against the saffronisation drive? The state, and the whole country, is passing through a phase of resistance. Opposition-ruled states have the same opinion. A joint platform is being formed against ideological infiltration. They have turned the UGC (University Grants Commission) into a body imposing restrictions. Earlier, the UGC used to issue vast guidelines. Now theyve been replaced with regulations. Punitive measures are being taken on non-compliance. They cancel recognition of universities, reject requests for distance education... the UGC is acting childish. Can states successfully fight against such trends? The states should do their maximum. Our fight isnt just for us but for the generations to come. India should retain its identity. We had a strong national movement that united all sections of people. It was possible through ideas of coexistence with mutual respect. Mahatma Gandhi was intelligent enough to select salt as a symbol of resistance. Because salt is used by all. Such a country with a huge tradition is now witnessing large-scale divisive attempts. Those from different religions have had harmonious relations in Kerala. Thats the quality of a good-cultured land. The four-year undergraduate programme (FYUGP) was introduced as part of the National Education Policy (NEP). Tamil Nadu rejected the idea and took a strong stand. Why did we accept these? We havent blindly followed the Union governments model or NEP. We have ensured a base for secularism and scientific aptitude. They insist on teaching the Indian knowledge system. India has a centuries-old culture and knowledge wealth. But that knowledge includes a lot of injustices. Hence, we decided not to teach them. Our curriculum framework was prepared with due focus on environmental awareness, gender equality, and social justice. Also, NEP proposes issuing certificates to those studying for a year and diplomas for two years. We arent following that and a degree is awarded in the third year. The four-year UG programme is followed by renowned universities worldwide. We started FYUGP not because of NEP. It helps with international compatibility. It was introduced on the basis of the reports of three commissions established by the current government. You seem calm as we talk. Yet, you were easily provoked recently while speaking in the assembly.. . Where was I irritated? I was talking calmly. We cant do anything if someone cooks up stories. They alleged that I said poda cherukka. That is one hundred percent untrue. Such a colloquial usage is uncommon in Thrissur. Thats a phrase commonly used in southern Kerala. And how did the Leader of Opposition hear what I said in my feeble voice, without using the mike, when Rahul was speaking so loudly? I did say verbal diarrhoea. That youngster was insulting me for two days. Did you have Rahul Mamkootathils statement against Padmaja Venugopal in mind? Its a reflection of ones personality. I replied calmly. The three opposition MLAs took an aggressive stance. Rahul alleged that I introduced the bill out of greed and went on to say mockingly that my statue would be installed instead of Kumaranasans. Well, I will occupy this chair only for the next eight or nine months more. Then the assembly elections will be held. According to the new bill, if the governor does not sign the senate formation within 60 days, it will be considered approved. Do you think the governor will give assent? I do hope the bill is approved. Arent 60 days enough to study a file? I believe the new governor is trying to understand issues in a more balanced manner, compared to his predecessor. The incumbent (Rajendra Arlekar) told us that he has been with the RSS from an early age. That may be his political stand but he hasnt been hostile to us. His interaction with us was very cordial. He told us the government must have a say in the affairs of universities. Mutual respect is crucial. A diplomatic relationship is needed between the governor and the government. It was different with his predecessor... more on the lines of how a superior behaves towards a subordinate. Has the exit of Arif Mohammed Khan come as a relief to you? Certainly. We were forced to spend so much time dealing with Khans statements. The media also played a role in fuelling the fire. It used up so much of time and energy needlessly. How was the former governor in his interactions with you? Even in our very first meeting, he behaved as if he had some prejudice against me. Later on, he simply refused to even hear us out. We had to keep listening to his monologues. Was someone feeding him a wrong narrative? Those with him may have done so. He didnt know Malayalam, and so, could have been misled. A section unhappy with the higher education reforms, too, could have misled him. However, the new governor has said he doesnt intend to be carried away by misleading facts or wish to be admired by the media. Both sides have the right to voice their respective opinions. It isnt right to humiliate a government. The previous governor termed the chief minister and the ministers, including me, criminals. I dont think that has ever happened in the history of this country. Did the government too provoke him? No. It was we who kept our temper, even during extremely provoking scenarios. Has the change of atmosphere enabled the ministers to visit Raj Bhavan and interact cordially with the new governor? Earlier too, our interactions were very cordial. The previous governor had alleged that ministers never came to meet him? We need to go to the Raj Bhavan only when required. After the new governor took charge, I dropped in only once. His predecessor used to speak to us in the tone of a feudal overlord. How difficult has your journey been? No distinctions between male and female members were ever made in my family. Ive never felt I shouldnt do something just because Im a woman. However, our society is patriarchal. I had to overcome many challenges as a mayor. I was subjected to abuse. There were instances when good projects were rejected. There were also attempts to sabotage them. But I never chose to back down. Ive always given my best. You have been part of both SFI and CPM. But when you became mayor, and later MLA, it was alleged that you attained all these just because you are the wife of a CPM leader... Such allegations stem from the vested interests of rival political party leaders, coupled with the anti-women perspective of a predominantly patriarchal society. You heard the recent remarks against the chief secretary, right? Though we talk about the progressive face of Kerala, such statements remind us of our hidden, regressive attitude. Even today, people sadly relate to such outdated concepts. I fail to understand what my husband has to do with all this. He is a traveller. We hardly get time to meet each other. I go ahead in my own way and he treads his own path. I have 45 years of experience in public service. I became a syndicate member at the age of 18 and was the youngest university syndicate member in Kerala. In 2008, I was inducted into the district committee. When I contested the assembly election, I was the most senior woman worker in Thrissur. What about the gender bias within CPM? Theres no gender bias in the Left... I never said theres no gender bias in the Left. The party is a cross-section of general society. Naturally, all characteristics of society are reflected in the party. But the party has a system for self-cleansing. If any wrongdoing is found, action is taken. If there are complaints of misbehaviour with women, action will be taken if they are found to be true. No other party can claim the same. There could be misogynistic actions by our comrades too. But theres also scope for correction within the party. Moreover, CPM is one party that consciously increases women representation, both in the party organisation and the parliamentary realm. Nowadays, SFI faces much criticism... and has it failed to check increasing incidents of ragging on campuses? SFI has made immense contributions towards improving the quality of education in Kerala and should move ahead with the changing times. Being the biggest student outfit, it should become more vigilant. Theres a tendency to blame SFI for the smallest action. During our time, efforts were made to bring in students who are intellectually bright or excel in art and culture. That should continue. We cant say ragging incidents have shot up. The higher education department has taken stringent action against ragging. Of late, theres a general increase in violence and wild behaviour among the youth. There are many reasons for this. Children grow up in a stifling atmosphere within family. They dont have enough scope to socialise. Your approach towards ASHA workers strike has invited criticism... I have always been part of agitations by ASHA workers. I wasnt condemning their agitation. Instead, I had pointed out that they have targeted the state government and failed to point fingers at the Union government. When Union Minister Suresh Gopi visited them, they didnt raise any demand before him. Thats what I was talking about. Doesnt the Left government have a responsibility to put an end to their agitation? They were explained about what can be done. The government offered to provide unconditional honorarium. When the Oommen Chandy government demitted office, it was merely `1,000. We have been increasing it and now it has become `7,000. Thats the highest in the country. They are also given incentives. ASHA workers can thus get up to `13,000 in Kerala. The Centre does not recognise them as employees. Being a central scheme, the demand for honorarium should be first raised with the Centre. A higher education minister is conventionally perceived as a serious individual. But you are different... cooler, one who doesnt hesitate to dance on stage... I do such things deliberately. Its to defy made-up beliefs that a minister should behave in a certain way. I want to break that bubble. I performed kathakali after a long gap of 35 years. Recently, I posted a poem on Valentines Day. I deliberately chose that one (bursts out laughing). Compared to other Left women leaders, you are the most-trolled... (Smiles) That doesnt bother me. Getting trolled means you are being noticed. Ive reached here after passing through many a fiery test. Trollers are ignorant about those things. TNIE team: Anil S, K S Sreejith, Sovi Vidyadharan, M S VidyanandanVincent Pulickal (photos), Pranav V P (video)

Thrissur honours winners of State school arts fete

Deaths due to elephant attacks at religious festivals surge in Kerala, seven already in 2025

KOLLAM: Elephants have long been the central attraction of Keralas religious festivals, but the rising number of deaths from jumbo attacks is alarming. In 2024, nine people were killed in such incidents. However, in just the past three months of 2025, seven fatalities have already been recorded, according to police records. In Kozhikodes Koyilandy, three people were killed in a single incident, while Thrissur reported two deaths. One person each died in Malappuram and Palakkad districts. In 2023, 11 people were killed in similar attacks. Veterinary experts warn that the continuous use of elephants in festival processions is a major factor behind these incidents. Captive elephants experience a surge in testosterone levels between January and Marchcoinciding with the festival seasonmaking them more prone to aggression. Inadequate food, water shortages and loud music further aggravate their distress. What we have seen in captive elephants is that their testosterone levels rise to 1520 during this period, compared to the safe range of 58. This leads to secretions from the temporal gland, signalling heightened aggression. Ideally, elephants should receive rest and care during this time, but instead, they are subjected to noisy festivals with DJ music and firecrackers. The stress makes them want to escape the environment, said Dr D Shine Kumar, Chief Veterinary Officer, Kollam. Moreover, elephants often dont get their preferred food. While some enjoy coconut leaves, other elephants may favour bananas. Plus, water shortages and lack of rest can cause gastric issues, leading to aggressive behaviour, he added. Animal rights activists also highlight violations of regulations meant to protect elephants. Elephants are frequently prodded during festivals, blatantly flouting the rules, said VK Venkitachalam, Secretary of the Heritage Animal Task Force. As per regulations, elephants should not be paraded for more than six hours at a stretch. If an elephant is paraded one night, it should not be paraded the next day. They should not be transported between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., and no more than three elephants should enter temple premises at a time. The High Court has also mandated that devotees maintain a one-metre distance from the elephant during festivals. Yet, these rules are repeatedly ignored because the government fails to enforce them, and the public does not object. As a result, violent incidents will continue, he said. Meanwhile, Forest Minister AK Sasheendran has assured that steps will be taken to curb such incidents. The government, along with the Devaswom Board, will take strict action against those violating regulations. A district-level monitoring system is already in place, and enforcement will be further strengthened in the coming days, the minister said.

Mega job expo in Thrissur on April 26

Over 25,000 candidates are expected to take part in the employment fair, in which as many as 200 national and international companies are participating.

Thiruthu, a correctional film festival at Viyyur central jail from March 24

International Film Festival Thrissur to host five-day correctional film festivalfor inmates. The fete aims to promote rehabilitation and social change through the medium of cinema

Thrissur to host mega job fair under Vijnana Keralam project on April 26

Core objective of project is to generate employment opportunities for educated youth by enhancing their skill sets according to the demands of the job market

Relatives demand probe into death of Thrissur student in Scotland

Body of Ebel Tharayil was found on railway tracks in Scotland on March 12. Family says there is no reason for Ebel to end his life

Centenary of Mahatma Gandhis first visit to Thrissur observed

Strengthen fight against drug mafia, Kerala CM tells new SI recruits

Passing-out parade of 118 Sub-Inspector trainees of 31B batch at Kerala Police Academy at Ramavarmapuram, Thrissur,

High-level meet chalks out Thrissur Pooram plans

Pooram will be conducted in all its grandeur with ample focus on safety, says Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan

Long-pending land issues of tribespeople find solution in Thrissur district

As part of these initiatives, title documents are being prepared for 44 tribal families at Olakara, with 1.5 acres each. The process of land allocation for 106 landless tribal families identified in the district is progressing

Tholur grama panchayat shines as Thrissurs first garbage-free green panchayat

The initiative for making the panchayat free of garbage was implemented in phases under the Thelimayode Tholur campaign

Land ownership granted to families relocated due to landslide threat in Thrissurs Akamala

Land documents and tax payment receipts handed over to beneficiaries by District Collector Arjun Pandian

Keralas captive elephant population dips to 389

In the Forest dept.s Statewide enumeration in 2018, the number was 521. Thrissur has the most number of captive elephants

As summer sizzles,Thrissur zoo keeps animals cool with showers and artificial ponds

Kerala woman carves a niche as an ambulance modifier

Lissa V.B. of Kambipalam in Thrissur started modifying ambulances 12 years ago and has converted over 1,000 vehicles into ambulances so far

Flash strike at IOCs bottling plant hits supply of LPG cylinders

The supply of LPG cylinders to Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha districts was disrupted following the flash strike

Iron piece found on railway track in Keralas Thrissur, police detain Tamil Nadu man

Reportedly a drug addict, he had attempted to steal a piece of the rail track, which was lying outside the track, to sell to buy drugs. It slipped from his hands and fell on the tracks when he tried to take it away

Two youths arrested with cannabis in different cases in Thrissur

CM reviews preparations for Thrissur Pooram

Pinarayi Vijayan directs that all safety protocols, including firework regulations, elephant parades, and crowd control, must strictly adhere to existing laws and court orders.

District panchayat Budget envisages all-round development of Thrissur

Focus areas include Robo Park, My Job, My Pride initiative, waste management, extreme poverty eradication programmes, LIFE Mission, agriculture, animal welfare, drinking water scarcity, healthcare, Cancer-Free Thrissur, and education

Thrissur cyclothon pedals towards a greener tomorrow with unified community spirit

The event was organised by Indian Oil Corporation Limited with the support of The Hindu in School

Tribal man trampled to death by wild elephant in Keralas Thrissur

58-year-old attacked by elephant about 6 km deep into the woods at Thamaravellachal under Peechi Forest Division

Time for India's smaller cities to shine? Rajkot, Nagpur, Thrissur register over 150% jump in Hurun's top hotspots for companies

Smaller cities like Thrissur and Nagpur are emerging as potential business hotspots, as observed in the latest Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 report. With government initiatives improving infrastructure and job creation, interest from homebuyers and investors in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities is on the rise.

3 BHK Villa For Sale Thrissur, Kerala (India) Selling Price INR 45 Lacs

3 BHK House with Hall, Dining Area, well maintained. 15 cents land with well and water availbility in plenty. No flooding land even in 2018 []

In a first, Thrissur holds its first full marathon

Armed Robber Steals Rs 15 Lakh From Thrissur Bank Branch

A masked robber looted 15 lakh from a Chalakudy bank in Thrissur at knifepoint, locking staff inside a toilet before fleeing on a bike.

KSU march to DIG office in Thrissur turns violent, several injured

Chennithala alleges that deliberate attempts were made to disrupt Calicut University D-zone festival

Former MLA K.V. Abdul Khader chosen as new CPI(M) Thrissur district secretary

Decision taken at party district conference held in Kunnamkulam

Thrissur to reap benefits from State Budget allocations

Kalamandalam to receive 24.5 crore for its advancement, while Kerala Institute of Local Administration is set to be elevated to a national institute with 29.32 crore in funding

Thrissur temple gets life-like mechanical elephant

A life-size mechanical elephant named Kombara Kannan was gifted to Kombara Sreekrishna Swami Temple, Thrissur on Wednesday, February 5. People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), in collaboration with sitarist Anoushka Shankar, who earned two Grammy nominations this year, has donated the mechanical elephant to the temple in honour of their commitment to never hire Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Shrine Board employees excel at 6th National Masters Athletic Cship

Excelsior Sports Correspondent REASI, Feb 5: Employees of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) delivered excellent performances at the 6th National Masters Athletic Championship, held at the Synthetic Athletics Ground of Govt Model Boys Higher Secondary School in Kannamkulam, Thrissur, Kerala. The event showcased the talents of athletes from across the nation, with several Shrine Board employees earning medals in various events. Abhishek Sharma, Athletics Coach at the Shrine Board Sports Complex, clinched two silver medals: one in [] The post Shrine Board employees excel at 6th National Masters Athletic Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Synergia-Chetana Campus Film Festival begins in Thrissur on Thursday

The festival will have a competitive section featuring 22 short films produced by students and a curated section

Thrissur temple to use life-size mechanical elephant for ceremonies

Sitarist Anoushka Shankar and PETA India gift the elephant, Kombara Kannan, to Kombara Sreekrishna Swami Temple in recognition of the temples vow not to hire or own live elephants

Woman jumps from first floor to escape sexual assault in Thrissur

Accused held in Thrissur; two accomplices still absconding

Mukkom sexual assault case: Hotel owner who is the prime suspect arrested from Thrissur

Search on to track down two more suspects

KPCC inquiry report reveals Congress-BJP alliance in Thrissur Lok Sabha election: LDF

The commission has accused leaders like T.N. Prathapan, Jose Vallur, Anil Akkara, and M.P. Vincent, explicitly naming them.

Man killed as elephant runs amok at festival venue at Chittattukara in Thrissur

Mahout hospitalised with serious injuries. Elephant Chittilappilly Ganeshan that was brought for the Painkannikkal temple festival turned aggressive while its mahout was giving it a bath

Delimitation Commission hearing held in Thrissur

UDF will provide permanent solution for human-wildlife conflicts when it returns to power, Satheesan

Malayora Samrakshana Yatra reaches Thrissur

2,916 drug-related cases reported in Thrissur in 2024;3,157 arrested

Parading elephants must be at least one metre apart: Thrissur festival monitoring panel

A model demonstration of the elephant parading was held here on Thursday morning

Kidney Transplant Racket: Police Accountability Under Scanner

Kidney Racket Case (Representational Image) Kidney Racket Case (Representational Image) Hyderabad: The interstate kidney trafficking case that was busted by the Saroornagar police recently is now raising questions about the accountability of health and police officials, who are not coming to the rescue of the demoralised victims. Two donors from Thrissur, Nasreen Bhanu Eliah, 22, and Firdosh, 40, who underwent illegal kidney transplants, were initially shifted to Gandhi Hospital where they received post-surgery treatment. However, sources revealed that the two had fully recovered and fit for discharge but the police were dilly-dallying and halting the investigation. Meanwhile, CCTV footage in the hospital premises that is being reviewed by police teams is not serve any purpose as most cameras are non-functional. Additionally, there are no hospital records or documents related to the admission of patients or kidney transplantation procedures, said an officer. Meanwhile, the hospital management has reportedly restricted family members from speaking to the media. In a new bizarre twist, police found that the accused, Dr. Raj Shekhar, who was held in Chennai, was involved in similar shady operations in Visakhapatnam. In fact, he was arrested in 2023 for his involvement in the Visakhapatnam racket. The Saroornagar police have placed Dr. Shekhar under remand and filed a petition seeking five-day custody of the other accused Sumanth and Avinash into police custody. Meanwhile, police have come across another hospital where similar illegal transplantations have taken place.

Hortus Malabaricus Botanical Garden inaugurated in Thrissur

With over 1,200 plant species, including 721 meticulously documented in van Rheedes treatise Hortus Malabaricus (HM Plants), the garden is a testament to Keralas rich biodiversity and the enduring legacy of its medicinal flora.

YouTuber distressed after haircut in jail, hospitalised

A YouTuber from Thrissur, India, who was arrested in an attempt to murder case, has been transferred to a mental health center after experiencing distress due to the jail authorities cutting his hair. Muhammad Shaheen Shah, known as 'Manavalan' (groom) on YouTube, was remanded to judicial custody for allegedly attempting to run over college students with a car. He was shifted to a hospital in Thrissur after he was seen experiencing distress and is currently under observation.

YouTuber In Distress After Haircut In Jail, Shifted To Mental Health Centre

A YouTuber from Thrissur, who was arrested in an attempt to murder case, has been transferred to a mental health center after experiencing distress due to the jail authorities cutting his hair.

Handloom sarees festival in Thrissur

Kerala: Class 11 Student Issues Death Threat To Teacher For Confiscating Mobile Phone

Pathanamthitta: A Class 11 student allegedly issued a death threat to a teacher of a government school in Anakkara, Kerala, for confiscating his mobile phone. The incident occurred on Friday, and the video of it has gone viral on social media. The incident happened after the student brought his mobile phone to school, which had a strict no-phone policy. As a result of violating the rule, his phone was confiscated, which enraged him and allegedly led to a threat. In the video, the student can be seen sitting in the principals office and allegedly threatens to kill the teacher, saying, I will finish you when you step outside (the school), and also demanded to return his mobile phone. According to reports, the schools Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has filed a complaint with the Thrissur Police, and the Education department is looking into the incident.

Two Kerala Jail Officials Suspended Over Boby Case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two jail officials were suspended in Kerala on Tuesday for going out of the way to help businessman Boby Chemmanur, who was arrested and sent to Kakkanad jail recently in connection with the sexual harassment case filed by actress Honey Rose. Central zone jail DIG P Ajayakumar and Ernakulam jail superintendent Raju Abraham were suspended. The action was taken after considering the recommendations of the Jail DGP Balram Kumar Upadhyay report. According to the jail chief, the DIG of Central Zone went to the jail with Bobby Chemmanur's friends while he was in remand and allowed him to meet them in the superintendent's room. Strict disciplinary action was initiated for violating prison rules. According to the probe report, 20 jail staff members had provided testimonies regarding the incident. They said attempts were also made to influence them. The investigation revealed three VIPs from Thrissur visited Boby Chemmanur in jail. The visitors who spent around an hour with Boby, did not record their names in the visitor registrar. The report was compiled after screening the CCTV footage and examining other evidence. Earlier, the report submitted by the Jail Headquarters DIG recommended action against the Jail DIG and the jail superintendent. According to the report, 20 jail staff members provided testimonies regarding the incident, stating that attempts were made to influence them.

How BJPs Kerala Christian Outreach Is Playing Out On The Ground

When one looks back at the political developments in Kerala in 2024, two things stand out the historic victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Thrissur and a significant rise in the partys vote share. One factor ascribed to the Thrissur win was the partys ability to garner support from a sizeable number Continue reading How BJPs Kerala Christian Outreach Is Playing Out On The Ground The post How BJPs Kerala Christian Outreach Is Playing Out On The Ground appeared first on OurVoice | WeRIndia - Analysis & Opinion .