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VACB recommends Kerala PSC to conduct aided-school appointments to stop corruption
The agency insisted that aided-school managements publish information on appointments in the disability category for official scrutiny, to ensure compliance with the law
Kerala CM writes to Jaishankar offering support for Indians stranded at Colombo airport
The cyclone has caused severe disruptions at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, stranding nearly 300 Indian passengers.
Accused in Manorama murder gets life term
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Vanchiyoor court on Saturday sentenced Adam Ali, a native of Bengal, to life imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 90,000 in the Keshavadasapuram Manorama murder case. The court found that he strangled 70-year-old Manorama and dumped her body in a well near her house in 2022. The verdict came after dramatic scenes in the courtroom earlier in the day. Moments after he was pronounced guilty, Adam Ali ran out of the courtroom. Lawyers and police officers chased him and caught him outside the court premises. The escape attempt occurred just before the court was to begin hearing arguments on sentencing at 2 pm. As per the investigation, Adam had been working as a domestic help at the neighbouring house and often visited Manoramas home to drink water. Familiar with him, she would let him in without suspicion. The police said he strangled her, stole her jewellery and carried the body out of the house. CCTV footage proved decisive in the probe. The visuals showed him carrying the body to an adjacent plot, dragging it to the edge of a well, tying stones to the legs and pushing it in to hide the crime. This footage led the police to confirm the murder. Then 21 years old, he had boarded a train out of the state but was intercepted by the Chennai RPF, who handed him over to the Kerala Police. The investigation was led by then Medical College Police Station SHO Harilal.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Saturday shared photographs of Unnikrishnan Potti - the key accused in the Sabarimala gold scam - with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, reiterating through a post on his Facebook and X handles that the case is part of a larger conspiracy involving both the Congress and the CPM. In a strongly worded statement, Chandrasekhar said that the arguments we put forward from the beginning have now been proven right, alleging that the scam had its origins during the Congress-led government. He claimed that the images of Potti with top leaders exposed what he described as an unholy nexus between the two rival parties. Chandrasekhar added that the Congress silence during the massive protests by Hindu devotees over the issue raised serious questions. He further alleged that, without the sustained agitation by BJP workers and believers, the INDIA alliance partners would have buried the case. According to him, the CPM and the Congress, despite projecting themselves as political opponents in Kerala, have been partners in this crime. He asserted that Potti was only a small link in a wider network and alleged that more influential figures within the INDIA bloc were involved. The BJP leader called for an independent and impartial investigation by central agencies to ensure that all those responsible are brought before the law. Chandrasekhars post included two photos: one showing Unnikrishnan Potti alongside Sonia Gandhi, and another with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Later in the day, responding to questions on the case registered against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, Chandrasekhar alleged that the timing of the action was aimed at diverting attention from the Sabarimala gold scam. He accused the CPM and Congress of working together to shift public focus and said the BJP would highlight the Sabarimala issue prominently during the election campaign. Reiterating his earlier charges, Chandrasekhar said the Sabarimala gold loot began even before the CPM came to power and pointed to earlier photographs of Unnikrishnan Potti with senior Congress leaders as evidence.
Global cancer prevention summit to be held in Jan
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Aiming to make Cancer Safe Kerala a reality, the Global Preventive Onco Summit will be held at the Hotel Hyatt Regency here from January 26 to 28. Touted to be the worlds first-ever cancer prevention conclave, the event will bring together cancer specialists from India and abroad, including experts from the Mayo Clinic in the United States and the World Health Organisation. Hosted by the Thiruvananthapuram-based Swasthi Foundation, and supported by leading institutions like Aster India and Apollo Group of Hospitals, the programme will also have Kerala University of Health Sciences and various international oncology doctors organisations as its collaborators. The initiative will focus on discussions led by health experts and policy planners on how to prevent, defend, and reduce the risk of cancer. Organisers are also planning to set up a cancer prevention research and study institution through public-private partnerships. Kerala University vice-chancellor Mohan Kunnummal, Indian Association of Surgical Oncology president-elect Dr Chandramohan K, Indian Medical Association south zone vice-president Dr Sreekumar R C, and others will attend.
Navy Day fete: Arrangements under way at Shankhumukham
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : In the run-up to the Navy Day celebrations at Shankhumukham beach, the city corporation has come up with elaborate arrangements and restrictions to ensure the smooth conduct of the event scheduled for Wednesday. The event that will offer the public the opportunity to witness the Indian Navys multi-domain operational capabilities is expected to be attended by over 46,000 spectators. To address the growing bird hit menace being reported in the airport area, the civic body has imposed a total ban from Sunday to Wednesday on slaughtering and operations of poultry shops in the Vallakadavu and nearby areas, an official with the corporation told TNIE. The civic body has also launched a comprehensive awareness campaign to prevent littering in public places. We have mobilised around 200 sanitation workers for cleaning operations from Monday. All byroads and roads from Shankumugham to Vettucaud Church have already been cleaned up. Extensive special cleaning activities will be held from Monday, the official said. Around 200 dustbins will be installed to prevent littering during the event. Arrangements are being made by the authorities to accommodate people along the coastline from Shankhumukham to Kannanthura. The civic body is arranging large water tanks for drinking water supply at the venues. Green protocol will be enforced strictly and drinking water will be made available at the venue. Bio toilets will be set up, the official said. President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be attending this years event. The Operational Demonstration will showcase the Navys frontline platforms and its role as the Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region, guided by the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). The event will highlight the Navys combat capabilities, technological advancements, and operational readiness, reflecting Indias growing maritime strength and self-reliance.
Fort Kochi to see bishop consecration after 25 years
KOCHI: Fort Kochi is preparing for the consecration of a new bishop after 25 years. Monsignor Antony Kattiparambil will be consecrated as the 36th bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cochin on December 7. The ceremony will be held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi and will be presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. According to Diocesan Chancellor Fr Johney Xavier Puthukkattu, Fort Kochi has witnessed episcopal consecrations at intervals of 25 years over the past century, with the last one held in 2000. Cardinal Ferrao will serve as the principal consecrator, while Archbishop Joseph Kalathiparambil of Verapoly and Bishop Emeritus Joseph Kariyil of Cochin will be the co-consecrators. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 3.30pm. Fr Johney added that the presence of Cardinal Ferrao in the upcoming ceremony reflects the historic ties between the Cochin Diocese and Goa. The Diocese was established on February 4, 1557, by Pope Paul IV as a suffragan of the Archdiocese of Goa. Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli and around 30 bishops from the Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches will attend the ceremony, along with priests, nuns and an estimated 12,000 believers from 51 parishes across Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts. The consecration will take place during Holy Mass, which will include the imposition of hands and anointing with chrism. Prayers and hymns will be recited in Latin, English and Malayalam. A choir of 170 singers selected from various parishes will be led by Fr Rafi Kootumkal and Fr Bibin George Thareparambil. The homily will be delivered by Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany. The Apostolic Nuncio, Syro-Malabar Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath and Calicut Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal will also address the gathering. The Diocese has arranged 20 seating sectors at Santa Cruz Square to accommodate the gathering. Volunteers will assist police in managing the crowd and traffic. E-toilets, a medical team and ambulances from Fatima Hospital, Perumpadappu, will be available at the venue.
Murder of pregnant woman: Second accused gets death penalty
ALAPPUZHA: The Alappuzha District Sessions Court III on Saturday sentenced the second accused, Rajani, to death in the murder of 32-year-old Anitha, a pregnant woman and mother of two. Anitha, daughter of Sasidharan from Punnapra Thekkemadam, was killed on July 9, 2021. Earlier, the court had handed down death penalty to the first accused, Prabeesh, a native of Nilambur. The second accused, Rajani, 38, of Pathissery House, Kainakary, was produced before the court on Saturday after being brought from a jail in Odisha in connection with an NDPS case. When Judge M Shuhaib asked whether she had anything to say prior to sentencing, she replied that she had nothing to say. The prosecution said both accused murdered Anitha around 9.30 pm, inside Rajanis bedroom. They allegedly strangled the victim, who was pregnant at the time, into unconsciousness and, assuming she was dead, took her in a boat and dumped her body in the Pookaitha stream. The body later surfaced, leading to the investigation.
Lost national award for best film due to Malayali jury members intervention
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior actor and filmmaker Balachandra Menon has alleged that his film Samaantharangal lost the national award for Best Feature Film due to the intervention of Malayali jury members. Stating that he had to share the Best Actor award with another actor due to this intervention, he released a video of the jury member Devender Khandelwal validating his allegations. However, despite media questions, Balachandra Menon refrained from naming anyone. He was speaking at a press conference ahead of his 50th anniversary in Malayalam cinema at the Trivandrum Club on Saturday. When the award determination was completed, I was the only best actor award winner, and my film was the best feature film. But some Malayali panellists intervened in between, and the rest is the winners list that you see now, Menon said. He also released a video of jury member Devender Khandelwal, in which he is seen validating the directors claims. When almost every jury member was convinced about Menons film, a few of them suddenly disagreed with this decision. One of them was even a Malayali, and I was shocked to see that, Khandelwal is seen remarking in the video. Written and directed by Menon himself, Samaantharangal earned two laurels in the 1997 National Awards, including his shared best actor award with Suresh Gopi, and the Best Film on Family Welfare. The jury was chaired by renowned South Indian actress B Saroja Devi. Commenting that actors should be likeable to the public to build an emotional connection with the characters, he opined that the key reason why many films fail to connect with the audience today is due to this. Remarking that every film will have its unique reason for succeeding at the box office, he also announced that he will soon be commencing his next directorial. Story, screenplay, dialogue, direction is my format of filmmaking. I cannot make films unless I helm all these, he said. Menon also shared that he is not interested in entering politics.
Police to build strong case before next move against Rahul
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The special investigation team probing the sexual harassment charges against Rahul Mamkootathil, is set to collect more solid evidence against the MLA, before going to the next step. Before summoning the MLA for interrogation, the team is focused on recording witness statements and gathering further evidence to submit before the District Sessions Court on Wednesday when Rahuls anticipatory bail plea will be considered. Sources said the police are unlikely to launch an all-out manhunt until the matter comes up before the court. Since it is unlikely that the accused would be granted bail with such serious charges slapped against him, police are trying to strengthen evidence, sources said. There are indications that the police have started reaching out to women who had earlier raised allegations, to formally register complaints against Rahul. However, both Rahul and his friend Joby Joseph are under surveillance to ensure they do not evade investigative limits. Sources indicated that any move to take him into custody is expected to happen later next week. The probe team on Saturday started recording statements of witnesses. The statement of the doctor who treated the survivor was recorded. Police have also begun the verification of medical documents submitted by the survivor. Meanwhile, refuting Rahuls claim that their relationship began while the woman was still married, more details from the survivors statement have come out. She reportedly told officers that she met Rahul only after separation from her husband. The survivor further told police that she was first raped by Rahul on March 4, 2025, while she was living alone in a flat in Thiruvananthapuram. In her complaint, the survivor said Rahul initially expressed desire for a child, forced her into pregnancy and later forced her to undergo abortion saying the child would affect his future in politics. In his anticipatory bail plea, Rahul had claimed that he and the complainant had a long-standing friendship. He stated in the petition that he entered into a friendship and later a sexual relationship with the woman knowing she was married. He further denied the allegations of assault and noted that he neither raped her nor forced her to undergo an abortion and that the womans allegations are fabricated. On Saturday, Rahul, through his advocate, submitted a pen drive as additional evidence to support his claims. In his bail petition, Rahul had stated that he should not be held responsible for the survivors pregnancy. To support this, he submitted photographs of the couple together during the period in which the assault is alleged to have happened, along with material that he claims shows the abortion was done on her own willingness and was not coerced. The third evidence is a WhatsApp chat where the woman is forced to file a complaint against Rahul by the head of the firm where she is working. Rahul had earlier alleged that the firm she works for is politically aligned to BJP. Amid indications that Rahul Mamkootathil had gone into hiding in Palakkad following the case, new information suggested that he reached Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. Sources said he visited a lawyers office in Vanchiyoor. According to the lawyer, Rahul arrived on Friday afternoon, signed the petition, handed over documents, WhatsApp chats and audio clips in his possession, and then left in an hour. Rahuls mobile phone was switched on briefly on Friday morning and its location showed Palakkad. It was switched off soon after. The political campaigns against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil continued on Saturday with BJP leader K Surendran criticising the Congress leadership for what he described as a deliberate attempt to shield the legislator from police scrutiny. Surendran claimed that both KPCC and AICC have received multiple petitions from women complainants, yet none of them have been formally passed on to law enforcement agencies. Speaking to the media in Palakkad, Surendran questioned how the Leader of the Opposition has failed to alert the police despite acknowledging that serious complaints exist. If the Congress is truly guided by political morality, he said, the party should have already asked Rahul to step down.
Everyone free to eat what they want but dont provoke others
Pazhayidom Mohanan Namboothiri, the master chef of school arts festivals for the past two decades, is an unassuming individual who swears by the divinity of cooking, a task demanding utmost passion and deep dedication. In a freewheeling chat with TNIE, he opens up about his culinary journey spanning over three decades, why he believes in the individual freedom to choose what to eat, the controversies over beef and menu in school festivals, and the speciality of the much-talked about traditional Kerala sadya. Excerpts Youve made a name for yourself in Keralas culinary world. But its said your entry was accidental Yes. After acquiring my masters in physics, I struggled to get a job. I attended around 126 tests in five years, but with little luck. During those days in the 80s, Brahmins had two other options priesthood and cooking. I chose cooking because it gives instant results. Those days, you were an ardent admirer of M T Vasudevan Nair. Its heard that you passed through a phase of existential dilemma In my birthplace Kurichithanam there was a library in our neighbourhood. Reading became a habit since Class 5. Reading and travelling gifted me experiences. Thats how I developed a craze for MTs works. I also loved the poetry of Ayyappa Paniker and Balachandran Chullikkad. At the time, I had visited most states, as part of job-hunting. In between, I tried my luck in business and other small ventures. But they failed, and resulted in financial liabilities. I even thought of ending life. That was a period after Kerala society had undergone several changes. As a member of the Brahmin community, what was your life like then? The situation wasnt favourable for educated and qualified people. Reservation is a big problem. In that sense, I feel a uniform civil code is necessary. Imagine people standing in a queue under a hot sun. Some are invited and given lemon juice. The rest are excluded. Back then, such was the scenario. Opportunities were fewer. I wasnt very bright... my life evolved through reading and travel. Since you belong to a forward community, it was natural to have such an opinion. But do you still hold the same view? Certainly. Back then, I even had an inferiority complex for being a Brahmin. Now, in many places, there are attempts to make people Brahmins by giving them poonool (sacred thread) and teaching them mantras. It was the reverse then. I thought about the possibility of getting into the reservation category. It (reservation) is something which should not have been done in a place like India. From my travel to other countries, I understood there is no reservation there. People get employment based on merit. Skill should be the criterion, shouldnt it? Wasnt it necessary during that period, considering the social situation then? True, but how far have we changed from the social situation back then? Today, while beneficiaries of reservation occupy the highest levels of society, many from my community struggle for food, although they do not reveal it because of self-esteem or false pride. You mentioned the rigours of being a Namboothiri. Any perks of being a Namboothiri? My name is P D Mohanan. I changed it to Pazhayidom Namboothiri to establish myself as a cook. The tag found acceptance among people. Isnt there apathy from within your community towards those employed as cooks? In the 2000s, cooks were akin to aanakkar (those looking after elephants) and vedikkettukar (those engaged in fireworks). People engaged in cooking usually didnt present themselves well, didnt wash, ate pan, and dressed untidily. I could change this make them believe they have a place in society. Nowadays, cooks appear in whites (smiles). You once said business isnt meant for Namboothiris Successful ones are very rare. There could be two reasons. One, lying is quite difficult for them. Nobody can do business truthfully. One should know how to hide certain truths. Secondly, business is not meant for people who dont know how to handle money. They dont have much idea on aspects like utilisation of finances, investments, and returns. How did your situation change after those bitter life experiences? After my unsuccessful business venture, I got a job at a book stall in Ottapalam. While there, I happened to befriend a person, someone who handled funerals. He was a charming personality and a voracious reader, proficient in Malayalam, Sanskrit and English. I learnt lifes basics from him. I learnt that we cannot judge a person by his colour or job. He suggested that I try my hand at cooking and encouraged me to take up the profession. My career started with cooking for some 50 persons gathered at a local temple for namajapam. Had you tried cooking at home? No. Even today, I cant do it. My basic unit is a serving for 100 people. I can do any multiples of that. But anything below 100 would be an utter flop (laughs out). Isnt that easier than preparing food for 10,000 people? My interest grows with the number of people. Its a great pleasure to cook for a lakh (laughs). But it will be difficult if you ask me to cook for ten. I dont know how to prepare a dish with one or one-and-a-half spoons of ingredients. Women who cook at home are the best at that. The taste of homely food lies in their care and goodness. Its different from the commercial cooking I do. Did you have such love for cooking initially? It took five years to learn even the basics. I kind of established myself in 2001-02 when I prepared food for a Travancore royal family ceremony. It has been 25 years since you became the chef for school youth festivals. What changes have you noticed over the period? In the initial years, there was mass contribution... people and students would pool resources. Local residents would volunteer to assist. These were then not just events, but a place of togetherness. Also, back then, it was just a simple meal. Now, theres more diversity, including payasam on all days. In 2009, the current form of youth festival started... a common festival replaced separate events for HS, HSS, VHSS. Workload increased. Though the number of festival days was reduced, we increased the number of items by 20%. Do you follow the same menu, irrespective of the place, or make changes in line with regional differences? We usually follow the Travancore style, but also include a regional dish as a special item. Do you have the freedom to fix the menu? Earlier, we did, but stopped it with the 2023 controversy. Now, its an e-tender, wherein the menu is given. That said, we still retain the flexibility to make minor adjustments based on practical experience. Whats your focus, more dishes or more special items? We limit the menu to 12 dishes, but we experiment with payasams to add variety. There are so many possibilities... weve even created yam and pumpkin payasams. How have your travels influenced your approach to food preparation? Food exists to satisfy hunger and taste is born from hunger. If someone isnt hungry, eating loses its meaning. Ive seen people struggling to find food as well as prepare it. Such experiences made me view cooking as a form of worship. It taught me that serving food isnt just a taskit is a divine responsibility. Viewed as such, we approach it with true commitment. When we view the process of cooking and serving as divine, taste naturally follows. Its said that you start cooking with a prayer I always pray before cooking. No matter how busy we are, we never begin cooking without first taking a bath. Food is meant to be served to others, so we must treat it with respect and care. We also make it a point not to waste food. What exactly do you pray? My first prayer is that nothing untoward happens to any child because of the food. Second, my own actions should never harm the food. Third, my attention should not falter. Is there any truth in the saying that food tastes better when cooked on firewood? Vessels placed on firewood receive even heat, while on a gas stove, maximum heat is concentrated directly above the burner, increasing the risk of burning. Firewood allows slow cooking, which enhances flavour. The only caution is to ensure that smoke does not seep into the food. Each district differs in food preferences. What is Keralas food habit per se? Its difficult to define a single food habit for Kerala. We need to look at traditions that existed even before the formation of the state. Food practices vary widely across regions. For instance, in areas north of Kozhikode, non-vegetarian dishes are inseparable from daily meals. The food habits of northern, southern, and central Kerala cannot really be compared. What about authenticity of food? Everyone claims their food is the most authentic. In Thiruvananthapuram, people prefer dishes arranged in three layers on the banana leaf almost like a rainbow. For them, appearance matters more than taste. In northern Kerala, the spread is simpler, but they are very particular about flavour. Which sadya is better? Isnt the Thiruvananthapuram sadya considered superior? People may claim, but no one can insist thats the absolute truth (laughs). How about the serving style? In Thiruvananthapuram, people are very particular about the order of serving. For instance, if you serve pulissery before pradhaman, they may stop eating altogether. In other regions, this isnt the case. Is there a specific gastronomic order to follow in a sadya? Not really. A vegetarian sadya is built around six fundamental tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Whether the sadya has 10 dishes or 36, basic taste elements remain the same. The idea that digestion depends on following a strict sequence is not accurate, but certain practices do matter. You are vegetarian. How do you manage non-vegetarian dishes? We have a separate team and separate utensils for non-veg items. Whats your favourite food? I enjoy rice with curd and cut-mango-pickle. If rasam is added, Im even happier. Your take on the controversy over non-veg food during the school arts fest in 2023 The government provides an estimate about the number of people whod dine. The exact count is way different. Last year, the government said thered be 12,000 diners daily. But 20,000 people ate each day. Non-veg cannot be given to so many people. Food is prepared in a single kitchen and preparing meat is impossible. Even if meat is supplied, it will rot by the time its taken for preparation. Else, the government should install a freezer and a generator. In school games, food is prepared in five kitchens. Hence, non-veg dishes are served there. Politics over food is heating up Human digestive system is seven times longer than the height of a person. Digesting non-veg food is difficult, and could lead to health issues. Human body is more suited for a vegetarian diet, but now humans are used to being non-vegetarian. Brahmins too consume non-veg... Brahmins consuming non-vegetarian food is not unusual. Bengali Brahmins and some Maharashtrian Brahmins traditionally eat fish and do not claim to be strict vegetarians. Their food habits are shaped by regional culture. Kerala follows a different system, where certain Brahmin communities practise vegetarianism strictly. This has contributed to a perception that all Brahmins must be vegetarian, and in some cases, it has also created a sense of superiority among groups who identify strongly with vegetarian practices. Personally, I dont believe that some Brahmins have higher status. Ultimately, such divisions are meaningless. It is up to each individual to decide their way of life, including what they eat. The problem arises when one insists that you should eat what I eat. Vegetarian or non-vegetarian food, which one is good for health? Non-vegetarian food can boost stamina quickly. But its wrong to say that vegetarians have no strength. Vegetarian food boosts stamina slowly. Look at elephants; they are incredibly strong, yet they eat only plant-based food. Does the food we eat affect our character? Hitler was a vegetarian, yet he was an extremely cruel man. Food alone does not determine a persons character. Some people say eating spicy or salty food can make a person angry. There are people who get irritated easily after eating such food. The food we eat helps build body and health, but does not automatically shape our nature or behaviour. A non-vegetarian does not become short-tempered because of meat, neither does a vegetarian become peaceful by avoiding meat. Personality depends on the individual, not on whether they eat vegetarian or non-vegetarian food. On the changing food culture in Kerala, especially Arabic food Arabic food culture has adversely impacted the health of Keralites. Sudden changes in diet and the habit of eating food unsuited to our system have led to numerous health issues. Having such dishes occasionally is fine, but making it a regular habit just because they are popular is not right. Food should match climate and lifestyle. A major reason behind such trends is social media. Food bloggers and influencers constantly promote and encourage people to try dishes without considering health. How has the spread in traditional functions evolved? Over the years, the menu served during traditional functions has undergone a noticeable change. Earlier, the practice was to keep the previous days meal simple and light. Even non-vegetarian items, if served, were limited and uncomplicated. Today, the simplicity of the pre-wedding menu has largely disappeared. Heavy non-veg meals and elaborate spreads have become common even on the previous day. The sadya, once reserved for the wedding day, is now served frequently across various functions. The number of sadyas has increased, while exclusivity and ritual significance of the feast have decreased. Is non-vegetarianism increasing in Kerala? Non-vegetarianism itself has not necessarily increased, but there has been a noticeable shift in food habits. Many who were traditionally vegetarian now eat non-vegetarian food, while some non-vegetarians have moved towards vegetarian options. In short, there has been an interchange of preferences over the years. Why are vegetarian hotels shutting down? One major issue is that genuinely good vegetarian hotels, especially hygienic ones, are becoming rare in Kerala. This decline is not because people have stopped eating vegetarian food, but because many vegetarian establishments fail to maintain standards such as attractive interiors, clean and well-presented spaces, or even neat uniforms. Non-vegetarian hotels, on the other hand, generally maintain certain standards whether it is the quality of food, hygiene, or affordability. You once served sadya to PM Narendra Modi. How was the experience? I had the opportunity to serve a traditional Kerala sadya to Narendra Modi during the BJP national council meet. It was a completely vegetarian sadya. Cooking the sadya was quite challenging because of the security setup. But everything went smoothly. He ate the whole sadya; not a single item was left on the plantain leaf. He told me the food was excellent. I had prepared around 30 items including four varieties of payasam. I have prepared food for our chief minister too. Which is the most difficult food to cook veg, non-veg, or north Indian? Most difficult to prepare is vegetarian food, because each item has to be cooked separately in its own vessel, with its own method and time. In non-vegetarian cooking, if you make two gravies and one masala paste, you can finish many dishes. In north India too, most items have a gravy base, and once that is prepared, many dishes can be completed. In Kerala, beef is a political topic. People discuss whether eating beef is right or wrong. Whats your view? If you ask me whether it is wrong to eat beef, I will say no. People have the freedom to eat what they want. If someone tells us not to slaughter cattle, then what do we do with the animals that are already old and nearing death? I dont think eating beef is wrong. Politicians project the issue in a certain way thats the real problem. People should be free to choose what they eat, but they should not hurt others in the process. If you want to eat, eat... but dont try to provoke others. We talk about diversity, but real diversity is respecting individuals. Each person should be able to live according to their own beliefs. If someone sits next to you and eats non-veg, do you feel uncomfortable? Sometimes I might. In such cases, I try to sit elsewhere, where I feel comfortable. Kerala is known as a spice capital, yet our traditional meals are actually mild and subtle Traditional Kerala food is not very spicy. But now, the interest in spicy food has increased. It depends on what people have grown used to. You have been cooking for the past 27 years. How do you look at your life now? I have served food to 2.6 crore students. I have understood that this job has its own dignity and divinity. Ive no disappointments. I believe I was able to win peoples trust. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Anil S, Aparna Nair, Parvana K B, Varsha SomarajVincent Pulickal (photos) Pranav V P(video)
KOZHIKODE: Koyilandy MLA Kanathil Jameela passed away on Saturday at a private hospital in Kozhikode following illness. She was 59. The CPM leader had been convalescing at home for the last six months after undergoing treatment for cancer. Jameela had a unique political ascent, achieving the rare feat of serving and winning elections across all three tiers of the panchayat system before being elected to the assembly in 2021. Born in Kuttiadi, Jameela inherited her political fervour from her father, T K K Abdulla, a frontline communist leader during the Emergency era. Snehasparsham proved her commitment to public care After marriage, her move to Thalakulathur placed her in a family of dedicated CPM workers. Jameelas career officially took off in 1995, when she was elected to Thalakulathur panchayat and served as its president. Her influence solidified during her tenure as Kozhikode district panchayat chief, a position she held twice, in 2010 and 2020, when she won the Nanminda division by a margin of 8,094 votes. During her time in office, she launched the acclaimed Snehasparsham project for kidney patients, providing up to Rs 3,000 in financial aid and free medicines a scheme that became synonymous with her commitment to public care. In 2021, Jameela successfully transitioned to state politics, winning the Koyilandy assembly constituency. She defeated her Congress opponent N Subhramanian by a significant margin of 8,472 votes. She is survived by her husband, Abdurahman, and children, Ayreej Rahman and Anooja.
Congress had received complaints against Rahul, admits Chennithala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In what may prove costly for the Congress in the run-up to the elections, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has admitted that the party acted against Rahul Mamkootathil after the then KPCC president and the Leader of Opposition received multiple complaints against the Palakkad MLA. This is the first time that a senior party leader has publicly said so. The open confirmation by Chennithala counters the party leaderships public claims that it had not received any harassment-related complaints against the young leader. The Leader of Opposition, the then KPCC president and party leaders received several complaints (against Rahul Mamkootathil). It was then that the party unanimously took such a decision, he said, while addressing reporters in Kozhikode on Saturday. He was responding to questions on whether the party had taken disciplinary action against Rahul based on strong conviction or in the light of the allegations. He further said it was an individual issue. Law will take its own course. What can we do, he asked. The leadership had earlier maintained that Rahuls removal as Youth Congress state president and his suspension from the primary membership of Congress were solely based on the allegations that emerged later. State Cong prezs claim contradicted Several Congress leaders had told TNIE months ago that around 18 complaints, both written and through email, had reached Indira Bhavan, the party state headquarters. However, back then, KPCC president Sunny Joseph had dismissed the same. Now, the Congress admitting that it had received complaints against Rahul, but chose not to reveal the same, could invite more legal-political backlash. With local body elections fast approaching, both the LDF and the BJP are likely to target the UDF for covering up such serious complaints against the MLA.
Mayors step aside as assembly beckons
KOCHI : A student who has passed Class 10 cannot be admitted back to Class 8. General Education Minister V Sivankuttys recent quip, made while explaining why Thiruvananthapuram mayor Arya Rajendran is not being fielded in the upcoming local-body polls, has quickly become a metaphor for moving the needle on ascending the political ladder in the state. His comment suggested that politicians who have completed a full term are ready for the next stage, widely interpreted as a nod to Aryas prospects in the 2026 assembly election. Sivankuttys own political journey underscores the point. Long before he entered the assembly and became a minister, he served as mayor of Thiruvananthapuram from 1995 to 2000, one of the earliest examples of a local-body chief rising to state-level leadership. The CPMs V K C Mammed Koya, who later represented Beypore in the assembly, also took the same route after serving as mayor of Kozhikode. This trajectory is now becoming the norm rather than the exception. Kozhikode mayor Beena Philip, Kochi mayor M Anilkumar, and Thrissur mayor M K Varghese are also staying out of the fray, prompting widespread speculation that they are setting the stage for bigger battles. Anilkumars name is already under consideration for the Tripunithura constituency. Analysts say that this is part of a larger shift in political grooming within Kerala. With decades of decentralisation empowering municipalities and corporations, local bodies have become the states most effective leadership training ground. Earlier, student politics was the route to the assembly. Today, the panchayati raj system shapes political grooming, said senior journalist Jacob George. Past examples are clear. Former Thiruvananthapuram mayor V K Prashanth eased his way into the assembly. In Thrissur, former mayor R Bindu became a minister. In the Congress, Ernakulam MLA T J Vinod who spent 25 years as a councillor and later became deputy mayor says his years in local governance remain foundational. Local bodies are where the real training happens, he said. Experts welcome the trend. This is common worldwide, noted Dr D Dhanuraj of the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), a Kochi-based think-tank. Even in India, several leaders during the freedom struggle had served as mayors or deputy mayors. Local-level politicians should be promoted. They know the issues on the ground and can represent their constituencies more effectively, he said, adding that such a trend also helps strengthen a partys organisational base. Former legislator Sebastian Paul said mayors, who often oversee areas spanning multiple assembly constituencies, naturally gain a wide administrative perspective. With reservations limiting repeated mayoral terms, it is logical for them to move to the assembly, he said. As Kerala heads into the local-body elections, several mayors not on the ballot signals more than a reshuffle. It captures a clear political shift: Local bodies have become Keralas launch pads to the assembly and many of todays mayors may soon be graduating to their next class in state politics. Meanwhile, parties are also using this local-body election to promote a new generation. Across panchayats, municipalities, and corporations, CPM, Congress, and BJP have all fielded young candidates who are being groomed as future leaders. Party insiders say this is a deliberate move as senior mayors and councillors prepare to move up to the assembly, fresh faces are being placed at the grassroots to build the next rung of leadership.
With UDF, NDA snapping at LDFs heels, Guruvayur set for close fight
THRISSUR: In administering a temple town that attracts nearly 5 crore devotees annually, the task of running Guruvayur municipality can be at times overwhelming. With another local-body election round the corner, discussions in Guruvayur revolve around what political front can offer practical solutions to the problems faced by both residents and visitors. After the municipality was formed in 1995, it was the UDF that had the first go at governing it. But since 2000, it has been all the LDF. In the last five terms, the town has favoured the left, and with an increasing majority. However, the growing influence of the UDF and the NDA in recent years threatens to play spoilsport, and a close contest could be in the offing. Being a town with annual visitor numbers comparable to the entire population of Kerala, a major challenge we faced was management of waste. Through effective interventions, the LDF-led council introduced practical solutions that have changed the face of Guruvayur. Earlier, devotees to the temple couldnt walk barefoot through the town streets due to piles of waste and open defecation. But, now, the situation is entirely different. We have sanitation workers managing the waste over three shifts. Shavakotta, which used to be the dumping yard of Guruvayur, is now a childrens park, M Krishnadas, municipality chairman, told TNIE. Implementation of the Guruvayur drainage canal project, mooted 50 years ago, has been another milestone as far as Guruvayur is considered, he said. However, BJP councillor Shobha Harinarayanan questioned the claims. The canal project has been an utter failure as the Valiyathodu is still full of sewage and septage waste, despite spending crores. If the municipality could achieve anything, it was only because of central funds. The municipality and devaswom had at their disposal `100 crore under the Prasadam project, for which Guruvayur was selected. But, the LDF-led municipalitys lack a vision failed to put the money to good use, she said. BJP has two seats in the municipality, including Gurupavanapuri, where the Sree Krishna temple is situated. Since 2016, people in Guruvayur have been backing the development agenda of the BJP. This will reflect in the upcoming election, said Niveditha Subrahmanian, Thrissur West committee president. Meanwhile, the UDF is pinning its hopes on anti-incumbency following five terms of LDF rule. The Congress has been focused on reclaiming Guruvayur with grassroots-level work. We were the first to come up with the candidate list and launch campaigning. We are fully confident of overthrowing the LDF this time, as that is what the people desire, said R Ravikumar, UDF election committee chief coordinator in Guruvayur. While the LDF has several rebel candidates, UDF has only one. Following delimitation, the civic body now has 46 divisions -- up from the earlier 43. In an unusual scenario, the CPM local committee secretary even approached the court against the exercise, but the petition was rejected. Pending devpt projects Establishment of a sewage treatment plant in Guruvayur Expansion of the Guruvayur drainage canal Infrastructure upgrade, including improved facilities for pilgrims
In Olavanna, a veteran emergency responder takes on leading fronts
KOZHIKODE: A 60-year-old local hero, known for his four decades of volunteer work as an emergency responder, is in the electoral race in Olavanna panchayats ward 16. Madathil Abdul Azeez is contesting as an independent after being denied a seat by the LDF. This is not his first political rodeo. Azeez previously won a ward seat in 2015 under the UDF banner before joining the CPM. By running independently, the communitys indispensable first responder is now forcing a direct contest, challenging the party that overlooked his service. Azeezs unique service record makes him an indispensable asset to both police and rescue agencies. Over the last 42 years, he has personally recovered 4,228 dead bodies a grim tally encompassing everything from retrieving drowned victims to exhuming decomposed remains and shifting disaster casualties during crises like the 2001 Kadalundi train tragedy and the Nipah and Covid-19 outbreaks. His latest success involved leading the difficult search in September for the skeletal remains of Vijil K T, a youth whose body was dumped in a seven-foot-deep swamp near Sarovaram Biopark. After leaving the UDF and joining the CPM, I was active in social work and cultural activities. Initially the party leadership kept telling me that they are considering me for the panchayat election, but when the candidate list was announced I was excluded, said Azeez. He is now running against LDFs official candidate, Karuppal Prakashan, UDFs Abdul Mujeeb and NDAs Rathnan K. Azeez said his exclusion was met with condemnation by local residents who recall his prompt response during floods and health crises. Its fine if Im removed from the party. The public is with me, Azeez asserted. They have seen me for decades. Unlike other ward members, the public doesnt have to wait for a reply from me in times of crisis or any other needs. I always prioritise public concerns and thats what I have been doing for the last 40 years, he added.
Passing-out parade held at Indian Naval Academy
The parade was reviewed by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, who congratulated the midshipmen and cadets for their achievement
Plea before HC challenges posting of bouncers at Poornathrayeesa temple
Person of unsound mind trespasses into Pangode military camp
Oil India Limited begins deep offshore drilling in Kerala-Konkan basin
Oil India Limited has commenced its first deepwater drilling campaign in the Kerala-Konkan Basin, marking a significant step in India's energy independence. The 6,000-meter well aims to explore the basin's potential, aligning with the government's strategy to boost domestic exploration and reduce import reliance.
INS Vikrant to be star attraction of Navy Day celebrations on December 3 in Kerala
Keralas waste makeover meets poll silence
Two years after theBrahmapuramlandfill fire triggered sweeping reforms, waste management slips off campaign agendaseven as major gains and unresolved gaps continue to shape the waste management landscape. The issue still demands sustained funding and vigilant oversight
Koyilandy MLA Kanathil Jameela passes away
Survivor's statement proves Congress MLA Rahul Mamkottathil's claims wrong
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: More details from the survivors statement have now emerged in the sexual harassment case against Rahul Mamkootathil, which refute the claims made by the Palakkad MLA. Rahul in his anticipatory bail plea, had indicated that their relationship began while the woman was still married, however, the survivor has reportedly told the investigating officers that she met Rahul only after her separation from her husband. Her marriage, held on August 22 last year, lasted barely a month, and the couple had lived together for just four months. It was five months after this, that Rahul came into the picture, she said. Rahul had filed the anticipatory bail plea in the Thiruvananthapuram district sessions court. In the plea, the legislator claimed that he and the complainant had a long-standing friendship and stated that he entered into a friendship and later a sexual relationship with the woman knowing she was married. The plea says he felt sympathy for her after learning about the abuse in her marriage and that this was how the relationship developed. He further denied the allegations of assault and noted that he neither raped her nor forced her to undergo an abortion and that the womans allegations are fabricated. Rahul also claimed the woman recorded their phone conversations to trap him. In her complaint, the woman said Rahul initially expressed a desire for a child, then forced her into pregnancy, and later pressured her to undergo an abortion saying the child would affect his future in politics. Meanwhile, the special team probing the case will begin recording witness statements from Saturday. The statements of the survivors friends and the doctor who treated her after she fell ill following the intake of abortion pills will be recorded today. Rahuls anticipatory bail plea will be considered by the Sessions Court here on Wednesday. On Friday, the survivors confidential statement and medical examination were completed. Amid indications that Rahul Mankootathil had gone into hiding in Palakkad following the case, there were speculations that he had reached Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. It is indicated that he visited the lawyers office in Vanchiyoor. According to the lawyer, Rahul arrived on Friday afternoon to file a petition. He signed the petition in person, handed over documents, WhatsApp chats and audio clips he claimed were evidence in his possession, and then left in an hour. Rahuls mobile phone was switched on briefly on Friday morning and its location showed Palakkad. It was switched off soon after. Earlier, there had been reports that he had left the state. Meanwhile, Congress mouthpiece Veekshanam had published an editorial supporting Rahul, claiming he was a victim of conspiracy and alleged that the CPM was using the case to move attention away from the Sabarimala controversy. The headline read Let the one without sin be the first to throw a stone. The Congress later rejected the editorial. Party leaders said instructions had been issued to correct the mistake and asserted that such a write-up should never have appeared. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said the Congress had suspended him in unison. VD Satheesan said those who wrote it should be questioned.
Thiruvananthapuram district school arts festival to begin at Attingal on December 1
RPF, GRP launch stringent measures to curb reckless railway track crossing
Squads are now conducting intensive flash checks around major railway stations following reports of increasing violations, some of which have resulted in fatalities
Rigorous prison term for official held on bribery charge
Customs releases most of cars seized in Operation Numkhor
HC to watch Haal film yet again
SIR being undertaken in poorly planned manner, EC should halt it: CPI(M)
The CPI(M) alleged that this haste has led to complaints at several places of BLOs camping in some party offices and asking voters to visit them.
Sunny Joseph accuses LDF of derailing core goals of decentralisation
KPCC president says development has stalled across sectors
Sangeetha Shreshta award presented to Renganatha Sharma
Death of Sabarimala pilgrims: HC directs TDB to ready health advisory
TDB moves to revive Sabarimala master plan
Travancore Devaswom Board president K. Jayakumar convenes a meeting on December 16 to review the status of projects in Sabarimala and identify mid-term priorities. An update on status will be given to the high-power committee
Man arrested for allegedly stabbing candidate
Thiruvalla legislator Mathew T. Thomas, wife find their name missing from voter list
The MLA says both he and his wife had cast their ballots in every election since 1984. However, officials have reportedly told him that the names cannot be incorporated into the system due to technical constraints.
Kerala PEDICON-25 to conclude on Sunday
BJP aims for 25% vote share, says K. Surendran
Local bodies are testing grounds for the coming Assembly polls, says former BJP State president as he unveils partys micro-targeted strategies across the State
NDA manifesto for Thrissur Corporation promises major development push
Suresh Gopi releases document outlining five key projects
Kerala local body polls: Controversial brewery takes centre stage in Elappully panchayat
Govt. mulling holding school arts festival, special school festival together: Minister
KATPS to establish guidelines for sky-dining facilities
Move comes against the backdrop of five people getting stuck in a sky-dining restaurant at Anachal, near Munnar, in Idukki on Friday
Transgender reservation comes into effect in law colleges in Kerala
Esai Clara, the transwoman who moved the High Court demanding reservation for transgender persons for LLB course, plans to join Government Law College, Kozhikode
Pride Chasers hit triple hat-trick at Kallada
NEP a 'weapon' to expose lies in compilation of history, says Union Minister Suresh Gopi
Interacting with people and party workers in his Lok Sabha constituency, Thrissur, Suresh Gopi alleged that the country's history had been distorted and portrayed in a wrong manner
Drive launched to collect filled-in SIR forms through village offices in Kozhikode
Over 70% of filled-in enumeration forms have been digitised with the support of booth-level officers, says District Collector
Third accused in actor rape case attempts to end life
Strict action if written RTI applications are rejected, warns State Information Commission
One Killed, 35 Injured as Bus Carrying Pilgrims From Karnataka Overturns in Kerala
A bus returning from Sabarimala overturned on a narrow hill stretch in Kasaragod, leaving one dead and several injured.
Samaantharangal did not get best feature film award owing to foul play: Balachandra Menon
The actor-director interacts with media on the occasion of completing 50 years in entertainment industry
Centre moving towards dictatorship: CPI
Ashtamudi clam population shows signs of recovery
Given the resources current spawning and crucial early growth phase, CMFRI recommends imposing a three-month fishery closure from December 1 to ensure maximum protection of the clams
Kufos hosts training programme for Naval officers
Congress tries to bust Twenty20s development claims citing fund lapses
Quick evacuation, rapid response help contain fire at hospital in Kozhikode
The fire broke out on the ninth floor of the private hospital around 9.30 a.m. during welding work in the AC plant
After a six-year pause, TEDxThiruvananthapuram is preparing for a comeback on December 20, at Technopark Phase III. The 2025 edition carries the theme Local Mission, Global Vision, and marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the city-branded TEDx event. TEDxThiruvananthapuram began in 2016 and ran three editions under licence-holder Vishnu Prasad. When he migrated to a different country, the event slowly slipped into silence. Earlier this year, the responsibility fell to Arun Surendran, strategic director and principal of Trinity College of Engineering. A city-based label carries its own kind of weight. There are TEDx events by IIST, CET, and the College of Agriculture Vellayani. But their possibilities stay within the campus. A city licence gives a wider canvas, he says. When the license was granted, we felt a responsibility. We are organising this in the name of the city, so it has to be the best possible version of the event. Since this is a revival edition, the team decided to begin small. They are keeping it to a half-day event with a carefully curated format. There are only 100 seats this year, and 70 of them are open to the public. This years event brings together eight speakers from very different fields. Former ISRO Chairman S Somanath, who led the Chandrayaan-3 soft landing mission, will speak about his journey. Seeram Sambasiva Rao IAS, known for projects such as Nammude Kozhikode, KFON, and Ente Bhoomi, will share insights from his administrative work. Nizamudeen A IAS, Director of the Kerala Institute of Local Administration, brings the governance perspective. Rima Kallingal Dance practitioneracademic Methil Devika, actor and screenwriter Santhy Balachandran, academic and researcher Litty Chacko (known for her work on medieval mathematician Sangamagrama Madhavan and the Kerala School of Mathematics), theatre and television actor Sajana Chandran S (who retired as joint general manager at AAI), and race director of Kovalam Marathon Shinomol Palathanath, complete the speaker line-up. Talks will run from 2pm to 6pm, each session restricted to 1518 minutes. Also, TED has allowed the organisers to have Malayalam talks this year as long as subtitles are provided. All these talks will go up on the official TEDx channel, which has over 45 million subscribers, Arun says. Next year, the team plans to scale up. It will be a full-day event with more speakers and more themes. This year, the priority was to bring TEDxThiruvananthapuram back, revive it with the highest possible quality. Once that foundation is strong, we can grow it, keep improving it, and steadily increase the Malayalam content, he adds. The ticket price has been set at `2,500. To register, visit: tedxthiruvananthapuram.com .
Special Intensive Revision: NoRKA slammed for not holding meeting of overseas electors
Demand for an online meeting was originally made on grounds that Keralites working abroad harboured very serious concerns that they would be excluded from SIR rolls
Keen contest in Ward 11 of Kalamassery municipality
One dead, 46 injured as Sabarimala-bound bus plunges into gorge in Kerala
KASARAGOD: One person died and 46 others were injured on Saturday afternoon when a bus carrying pilgrims from Karnataka bound for Sabarimala plunged into a gorge on the ParambaKattankavala road near Chittharikal. Police and local people rushed to the aid of the pilgrims. Preliminary investigation revealed that the driver lost control of the vehicle and plunged into the gorge. The Vellarikundu Taluk Control Room reported that 22 people have been admitted to Pariyaram Hospital, 4 people to Cherupuzha Co-operative Hospital, and 20 people to St. Sebastian Hospital in Cherupuzha, said a communique from collector's office. Among the injured, one person remains critical.
Bun Maska trend picks up in Kerala
Unassuming and adaptable, the humble bun has made itself present all around the world. From street-side vendors to gourmet restaurants, buns appear in countless forms, inspired by the region. Its origins may be tough to trace, but its presence is hard to ignore. Europe has its long-standing bun traditions. Englands hot cross bun still finds pride of place every Good Friday. The brioche bun, Frances latest gift to the world from its rich culinary traditions, is now a burger essential worldwide, redefining the simple bread roll. Further north, Swedens cinnamon-laced kanelbulle captures the spirit of fika, the countrys cherished coffee break ritual. Across Asia, varieties of steamed buns are found, different from Europe baked versions. From China, the soft and pillowy bao often filled with pork, chicken, vegetables or something sweet, has become a global favourite. Japans anpan, with its sweet red-bean filling, continues to evoke nostalgia. In India, the reliable pav that anchors Mumbais vada pav or pav bhaji, both street-side staples. The subtly sweet Mangalorean bun, paired with coconut chutney, remains a unique variety found here. Then there is the bun maska brought to India by the Parsi community, who fled Iran during religious persecution, a simple bun sliced, buttered generously and served warm with Irani chai. Finding its ground in the Irani cafes of Pune and Mumbai, the bun maska has become so popular that they are also available closer home in Kerala. Cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram have trending spots that are visited by the young and old alike. Spots in Thiruvananthapuram offer you the choice to have your bun maska with coffee or hot chocolate, not limiting the option to just tea. In Kochi, Sreelakshmi and Saran, who run a bun maska stall, have tweaked the recipe with a few secret spices, nothing overpowering, just enough to make the flavour linger longer. Buns have become cultural connectors, appearing in markets, trendy cafs and home kitchens alike. They cradle, wrap, soak and uplift; no longer remaining just pieces of bread to have on the side or simply skip. Whether steamed, baked, stuffed or spiced, buns continue to hold their place at the global table. Here are some recipes you can easily try at home. With inputs from Tanvi Manoj Kurup and Safahath C N. Spicy Chicken Filled Bun Spicy Chicken Filled Bun Ingredients Oil: 3 tbsp Chopped onion: 1 Chopped garlic: 4 cloves Grated ginger: 1 tsp Ground chicken: 450 g Kashmiri chilli powder: 1 tsp Cumin powder: 1 tsp Turmeric: tsp Tomato paste: 3 tbsp Salt: tsp, adjust to taste Pepper: tsp Red chilli powder (optional): tsp Green peas: cup Sesame seeds (optional): as needed Burger buns: 68 Butter (for toasting): 1 tbsp Beaten egg or milk (for shine): as needed Method Heat oil in a pan and saut the chopped onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger, cook for a minute, then add the minced chicken and all the spices. Cook until the chicken dries up, mix in tomato paste, peas, salt and pepper, and let the filling come together. Slit the pre-made buns and lightly toast them on a tawa with a little butter. Fill each bun generously with the warm spiced chicken mixture. Cover and heat on low for 12 minutes so the buns turn soft and the flavours settle. Serve hot, sprinkled with sesame seeds. Paneer Tikka Stuffed Buns Ingredients Paneer (cubed): 200 g Curd: 3 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder: 1 tsp Turmeric: tsp Garam masala: tsp Salt: tsp (adjust to taste) Oil: 2 tbsp Onion (sliced): 1 Capsicum (sliced): 1 Burger buns or naan buns: 46 Butter (for toasting): 1 tbsp Method Mix paneer with curd, spices and salt. Marinate for 15 minutes. Heat oil, saut onion and capsicum, then add the marinated paneer and cook until dry. Slit buns, toast lightly with butter, and fill with the tikka mixture. Heat on low for 12 minutes until warmed through. Paneer Tikka Stuffed Buns Korean Gochujang Chicken Buns Korean Gochujang Chicken Buns Ingredients Shredded cooked chicken: 1 cup Gochujang: 1 tbsp Soy sauce: 1 tsp Honey: 1 tsp Garlic (chopped): 2 cloves Oil: 1 tbsp Spring onions (chopped): 2 tbsp Sesame seeds: as needed Burger buns or steamed buns: 46 Butter (for toasting, if using burger buns): 1 tbsp Method Heat oil and saut garlic. Add gochujang, soy sauce and honey, mix well, then stir in shredded chicken. Cook until the sauce coats the meat. Toast buns (if using burger buns), fill with chicken, top with spring onions and sesame seeds, and warm briefly on low heat. Serve immediately. Masala Egg Bhurji Buns Ingredients Eggs: 4 Onion (finely chopped): 1 Tomato (chopped): 1 Green chillies (chopped): 1 Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tsp Turmeric: tsp Red chilli powder: tsp Salt: tsp (adjust to taste) Oil: 2 tbsp Coriander leaves (chopped): 1 tbsp Burger buns or pav: 46 Butter (for toasting): 1 tbsp Cheese (optional): as needed Method Heat oil, saut onions, chillies and ginger-garlic paste. Add tomatoes and spices; cook until soft. Pour in whisked eggs and scramble gently. Mix in coriander. Toast buns with butter, fill with hot bhurji, add cheese if using, and heat on low for 12 minutes. Masala Egg Bhurji Buns Thai Peanut Veggie Buns Thai Peanut Veggie Buns Ingredients Cabbage (shredded): 1 cup Carrot (grated): cup Bell pepper (sliced): cup Garlic (minced): 1 clove Oil: 1 tbsp Peanut butter: 2 tbsp Soy sauce: 1 tsp Lime juice: 1 tsp Salt: tsp Burger buns: 46 Coriander leaves: 1 tbsp Method Heat oil and saut garlic, then add all vegetables and cook lightly, keeping them crunchy. Mix peanut butter, soy sauce and lime juice; add to the pan and toss well. Adjust salt. Fill toasted buns with the mixture, top with coriander and warm briefly on low heat. Tawa Bun Pizza Ingredients Buns (large 3 or small 6, sliced into halves): as needed Onion (finely chopped): 1 small Capsicum (finely chopped): 1 small Sweet corn (boiled): cup Tomato (deseeded & chopped): 1 small Grated cheese (processed or mozzarella): cup Sauce & Seasoning Tomato ketchup: 3 tbsp Tomato sauce or pizza sauce: 1 tbsp Dried mixed herbs or oregano: tsp Red chilli flakes: tsp Garlic powder: tsp (or minced garlic: tsp) Salt and pepper: to taste Butter or oil (for toasting): 12 tsp Method Mix onion, capsicum, tomato and sweet corn with ketchup, sauce, herbs, chilli flakes, garlic, salt and pepper. Spread this vegetable mixture over the cut side of each bun. Top generously with grated cheese. Heat a thick tawa on lowmedium flame and grease it lightly with butter or oil. Place the buns on the tawa, cover with a lid and cook for 46 minutes until the cheese melts and the base turns crisp. Remove and sprinkle extra herbs or chilli flakes if desired. Serve hot. Tawa Bun Pizza CoffeeGulkand Mascarpone Bun CoffeeGulkand Mascarpone Bun Ingredients Buns (halved): 46 Mascarpone (or cream cheese): 3 tbsp Instant coffee (dissolved in 1 tsp warm water): 1 tsp Gulkand: 1 tbsp Sugar: 1 tbsp Toasted walnuts (optional): 1 tbsp Method Whisk the mascarpone until smooth. Stir in the dissolved coffee, then add the gulkand and sugar, mixing until well combined. Warm or lightly toast the buns on a tawa if you prefer a crisp edge. Spread a thick layer of the coffeegulkand cream inside each bun. Top with toasted walnuts for added crunch. Serve slightly chilled for a tiramisu-style dessert bun.
YouTuber Claiming To Be Spiritual Healer Arrested For Rape In Kerala''s Malappuram
The accused, who had absconded and arrested has over 27,000 subscribers
Governor should examine if he is fit to continue in post: Minister
Court posts Mamkootathils anticipatory bail plea hearing for December 3
The police have reportedly taken custody of the alleged victims mobile phones for cyberforensic examination and obtained a 65B certification to forestall any challenge to the admissibility of electronic records, including audio clips and text messages
Munambam Waqf land protest to end on Nov 30, differences emerge among agitators
A long-running hunger strike by families in Munambam over disputed land will end on November 30. The protest, lasting 413 days, is concluding after a Kerala High Court order. Families can now pay land tax until the case is resolved. The state government has promised to expedite land possession procedures.
Munambam Waqf land protest in Kerala to end on November 30; differences emerge among agitators
Munambam Land Protection Council, which represents around 600 local families affected by the issue, says is being called off following recent Kerala High Court directive to State government to accept land tax from them until the case is disposed of
As the tourism season gathers momentum with visitor arrivals steadily rising, the iconic Varkala cliff and Papanasam beach continue to present a grim picture of neglect despite their status as an ecologically sensitive geo-heritage site on the Unesco tentative list. The laterite cliff is now marred by safety, sanitation, and environmental concerns. Tourists are greeted by poorly -lit pathways. Littered beaches and untreated sewage flowing directly into the sea and onto the shore owing to the lack of proper liquid-waste management among several hoteliers have become major turn-offs for visitors. Adding to the discomfort is the growing menace of stray dogs. This crater on the bridge leading to the Papanasam beach screams out the state of affairs here. Tourists use mobile flashlights to navigate a poorly-lit path to the beach Stray dogs on the beach Defunct CCTV cameras Inadequate maintenance has left walkways, public amenities, and view points in a deteriorated condition. Meanwhile, the ambitious Varkala Master Plan designed by Kerala Tourism Infrastructure Limited to offer comprehensive solutions ranging from improved waste management and organised parking to enhanced pedestrian facilities and cliff conservation remains in a limbo. It is notable that the destination received 5.98 lakh domestic tourists and 19,749 foreign tourists last year. Tourist struggle their way down a rocky path Wild growth has taken over a viewpoint at Varkala Dumping of waste remains a bane of Varkala Tourists walking down a path by fragile cliff edge
Tourists Rescued After Sky-Dining Crane Malfunctions in Keralas Idukki
Fire and rescue teams evacuate four-member family and staff after being stranded 150 feet above ground for over two hours.
Kerala SIR: 7.61 lakh enumeration forms in uncollectables list
Of the total 7,61,536 voters in this category, 3,41,393 are listed as dead, 88,945 as untraceable or absent, while 2,79,196 are considered to have shifted permanently
Watch: Why Sabarimala is facing a crisis this pilgrimage season | The Hindu Explains
It has been only a week since Sabarimala opened for the Mandala-Makaravilakku season, but concerns are overshadowing devotion. With eight deaths in eight days, severe crowding, medical delays, and poor planning flagged by the Kerala High Court, this years pilgrimage has become a major safety challenge. We take a look at what went wrong and what authorities are doing now.
Guruvayurappan's Ashtami Vilakku illuminates Kerala's temple town
GURUVAYUR: The renowned Guruvayurappan Ashtami Vilakku (lamp festival) was observed on Friday night, with Sree Guruvayurappan presiding over the procession, seated on a Golden Thidambu (Koalam). The temple town was pervaded by an intense air of devotion as thousands of lamps illuminated the area with the radiant glow of ghee-soaked wicks. The divine procession achieved a particular level of grandeur during the fourth circumambulation (Pradakshinam) of the Ashtami Vilakku. The majestic elephant Indrasen, one of the Devaswom's most prominent tuskers, carried the Golden Koalam, signifying the moment the ghee lamps were lit across the entire temple complex. The procession, which included three tuskers in total, was accompanied by the reverberating chants of 'Narayana' from the assembled thousands of devotees. Upcoming processions The tradition is set to continue tonight (Saturday), for the Navami Vilakku, as well as on the subsequent Dashami and Ekadashi Vilakku days. Sree Guruvayurappans nightly procession will be conducted on the Golden Koalam on these remaining days of the festival, and a substantial crowd of devotees is anticipated for each occasion.
Major fire erupts at Baby Memorial Hospital in Kozhikode; patients evacuated safely
KOZHIKODE: A fire broke out at the new C-Block of Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) in Kozhikode on Saturday morning, causing widespread panic but averting a major disaster through swift evacuation and intervention by fire and rescue teams. The fire started at approximately 9:45 am in the Air Conditioner (AC) systems located on the ninth floor of the hospitals new C-Block. Hospital authorities confirmed that construction or maintenance work was ongoing in the section affected which did not house any patients. Despite the fire being confined to the non-patient area, large plumes of smoke immediately billowed from the building, spreading to nearby floors and corridors and triggering alarms across the hospital, which is located at the heart of the city near the Kozhikode moffusil bus stand. Hospital authorities acted rapidly, safely evacuating all patients, accompanying individuals, and staff from the surrounding floors, including those on the eighth floor and those who had recently undergone surgery. We were able to shift patients without difficulty, a hospital official stated, confirming all individuals were safe. The fire broke out suddenly. We noticed the smoke and informed the hospital authorities, said Abdul Hameed, a witness from Ulliyeri who was at the hospital to accompany his elderly mother. The Fire and Rescue Services responded immediately, deploying five units to the scene. After rigorous effort, the fire was successfully brought under control by 10.30 am, preventing it from spreading beyond the 9th floor to other crucial areas of the hospital. While the fire was largely subdued, the teams continued operations to clear the dense smoke accumulation. Hospital management confirmed that the quick response prevented any casualties, though the incident has temporarily disrupted hospital operations. Preliminary findings suggest a short circuit may have caused the fire. A full investigation into the exact cause and the extent of the damage has been launched.
Fire breaks out at Baby Memorial hospital in Keralas Kozhikode
Blaze brought under control by Fire and Rescue Services squads within an hour after safe evacuation of patients. Fire caused by suspected short circuit in AC system. No injuries reported
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Saturday shared photographs of Unnikrishnan Potti the key accused in the Sabarimala gold scam with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, reiterating in a Facebook post that the case is part of a larger conspiracy involving both the Congress and the CPM. In his strongly worded statement, Chandrasekhar said that the arguments we put forward from the beginning have now been proven right, alleging that the scam had its origins during the Congress-led government. He claimed that the images of Potti with top leaders exposed what he described as an unholy nexus between the two rival parties. Chandrasekhar added that the Congress silence during the massive protests by Hindu devotees over the issue raised serious questions. He further alleged that, without the sustained agitation by BJP workers and believers, the INDIA alliance partners would have buried the case. According to him, the CPM and the Congress, despite projecting themselves as political opponents in Kerala, have been partners in this crime. He asserted that Potti was only a small link in a wider network and alleged that more influential figures within the INDIA bloc were involved. The BJP leader called for an independent and impartial investigation by central agencies to ensure that all those responsible are brought before the law. Chandrasekhars post included two photos: one showing Unnikrishnan Potti alongside Sonia Gandhi, and another with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Weve been right from the beginning - the Sabarimala gold loot is part of a much larger conspiracy and started many years ago during Congress period. Unnikrishnan Pottis photos with Sonia Gandhi expose the deep CongressCPM nexus behind this crime. Now we know why Congress pic.twitter.com/FqOKjfUfmA Rajeev Chandrasekhar (@RajeevRC_X) November 29, 2025
Case registered against sky-dining restaurant operators after tourists stranded in Kerala's Idukki
A sky-dining restaurant in Idukki, Kerala, has been shut down. Four tourists, including two children, were stranded for over two hours when a crane malfunctioned. They were rescued safely. A case has been registered against the operators for endangering lives and operating without a license. The district collector is seeking a report on the restaurant's operations.
The Sabarimala gold controversy involves allegations of irregularities regarding the gold plating work at the Sabarimala temple. This situation arose from a donation of 30.3 kilograms of gold and 1,900 kilograms of copper by industrialist Vijay Mallya in 1998, intended for the cladding of the sanctum sanctorum and the wooden carvings of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple in Kerala.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, November 29, 2025 Live: Karunya KR-732 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 29-11-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Karunya KR-732 for Saturday, November 29. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
Environmental nod for Outer Ring Road project in Thiruvananthapuram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The long-delayed Outer Ring Road (ORR) project has got a fillip with the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) formally granting environmental clearance for the ambitious project. The move comes close on the heels of a recent Supreme Court order that ex-post facto clearance may be granted under conditions. Meanwhile, the land owners who surrendered their land for the project have threatened to boycott both the upcoming local body and assembly elections to protest the delay in the disbursal of compensation. According to official sources, the minutes of the meeting by SEAC granting environmental clearance will be soon tabled in the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) meeting to be held next month for the final approval. Making things worse a section of land owners have moved the High Court challenging the land acquisition notifications issued without a detailed project report or environmental clearance. The validity of the 3(a) notification issued for the land acquisition for the project expired earlier this month. There is an active stay order and the government cannot cancel the 3(a) notification when there is an active stay order. Hence the validity of the existing notification will not be gone, said an official. As many as 6,500 land owners have handed over their property for the ORR project. Chandramohan Nair, convenor of the action council representing the landowners, said that though the state claims Kerala to be extreme poverty-free, the present status of the landowners are worse than extreme poverty because the government failed them. The government issued a 3D notification for around 11 villages and the land owners should be given compensation immediately. We will boycott the elections if they dont disburse the compensation immediately, said Chandramohan Nair. Meanwhile, the alignment revision which aims to minimise extensive hill cutting along the 77 km stretch is under way and is expected to be finalised only by December 2025. When contacted, PWD secretary K Biju told TNIE that it will take some time to finalise the DPR. The approval of DPR is crucial for releasing compensation for the land owners. The project, estimated to cost Rs 8,398.46 crore, is being implemented under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The land acquisition cost, initially estimated at Rs 1,800 crore, has now nearly doubled to `3,800 crore as of August 2025. Under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, beneficiaries are entitled to 12 per cent annual interest on delayed compensation from the date of land possession to the date of payment further increasing the financial burden on the state and central government. The ORR project got the Union governments in-principle approval in 2019.The 77-km stretch from Navaikulam to Vizhinjam via Thekkada passes through 31 villages. As per the plan, the six-lane road will be 45 m wide and will have 10 m-wide service lanes. Recently, the NHAI marked the road as NH 866.
With the LDF deciding to cash in on the Corporations achievements, the UDF looks to play up the civic bodys involvement in the 2022 building number scam. The BJP pitches itself as a practical alternative in divisions where it believes voter fatigue exists against both the fronts
Kerala local body polls: Sea incursion and tidal flooding shape electoral battle in Chellanam
During campaigning, candidates are received by leaflets, put up by the residents, that pose questions on the inaction over the seas incursion situation
Kerala local body polls: Tamil Nadu-style electioneering gets popular in Idukki
Kanthallur, Vattavada, Marayur, Munnar, Devikulam, Chinnakkanal, Udumbanchola, Vandiperiyar, Peerumade, and Elappara in Idukki mainly uses Tamil for election campaigning of the local body polls in Kerala
Varkala cliff, Papanasam beach face neglect despite rising tourist arrivals
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the tourism season gathers momentum with visitor arrivals steadily rising, the iconic Varkala cliff and Papanasam beach continue to present a grim picture of neglect despite their status as an ecologically sensitive geo-heritage site on the Unesco tentative list. The laterite cliff is now marred by safety, sanitation, and environmental concerns. Tourists are greeted by poorly -lit pathways. Littered beaches and untreated sewage flowing directly into the sea and onto the shore owing to the lack of proper liquid-waste management among several hoteliers have become major turn-offs for visitors. Adding to the discomfort is the growing menace of stray dogs. Tourists use mobile flashlights to navigate a poorly-lit path to the beach Inadequate maintenance has left walkways, public amenities, and view points in a deteriorated condition. Meanwhile, the ambitious Varkala Master Plan designed by Kerala Tourism Infrastructure Limited to offer comprehensive solutions ranging from improved waste management and organised parking to enhanced pedestrian facilities and cliff conservation remains in a limbo. It is notable that the destination received 5.98 lakh domestic tourists and 19,749 foreign tourists last year.
Indeevaram Fest: A blue bloom in art inclusivity
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Imagine a stage where veterans perform alongside newcomers, where barriers dissolve to create a beautiful symphony. A space where classical artforms thrive freely, untouched by hierarchies of seniority, physical ability, or social standing. A stage where art exists as an inclusive whole. Such is the aspiration behind Indeevaram, a non-profit organisation working towards art inclusivity, which is set to host its inaugural cultural fest on November 30 at EMS Hall, University of Kerala, Karyavattom. Indeevaram was actually conceived in 2018. It functioned at my home in Chengottukonam in Thiruvananthapuram where we would have classical art events held periodically, and where artists wouldnt be segregated in any manner, says Erikavu N Sunil, acclaimed mridangam artist and chairman of Indeevaram. Indeevaram stages would have veterans sharing space with newcomers, where the differently abled would perform alongside those who arent so. Veteran instrumental musicians will accompany junior vocalists, and the younger lot would play for senior vocalists, which, now, is not a common practice. The name Indeevaram reflects the essence of this idea, notes Sunil. Indeevaram or blue lotus appears in Vedic history as a flower of serenity and pristine beauty. But it also signifies struggle, says the former techie, who once donned senior managerial roles at Technopark. Just as the flower strives to bloom, the art in us, especially the classical Indian forms, sprouts after struggles with discipline, with oneself, and with the way the art transforms each practitioner. Hence, to me, Indeevaram represents the journey of every artist. And why should there then be barriers in it? We wish to erase them and let art be a thing of great beauty. And thus was born Indeevaram, where inclusivity is a practical way. The collectives cultural festival will feature luminaries such as poet Madhusudanan Nair; Mohiniyattom exponent Methil Devika, musicologist Achuthshankar S Nair, Kalamandalam registrar Rajesh Kumar, and GTech secretary Sreekumar V. The event will also have a performance by Ananya Bijesh and Harigovind G, who are very talented, differently-abled artists. They will share the stage with a popular artist like Devika. This reflects what Indeevaram aims for. Indeevaram plans to conduct inclusive art performances every month, and has set up a stage at Sunils home. We also intend to support struggling artists, he says, adding that the executive committee includes several professionals from Technopark-based companies. If the joy that art gives has no boundaries, why should there be boundaries among artists? Struggle in art should be for perfecting it, rather than finding stages to showcase ones talents or simply to live with dignity. This is Indeevarams mission.
Canadian filmmaker Kelly Fyffe-Marshall to receive Spirit of Cinema Award at IFFK
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Canadian filmmaker Kelly Fyffe-Marshall has been selected for the Spirit of Cinema Award at the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. The festival will be held in Thiruvananthapuram from December 12 to 19. Fyffe-Marshall, known for films that confront racial prejudice against Black communities, first gained international recognition with her short film Black Bodies (2020), which won the inaugural Changemaker Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. Her debut film Haven (2018) also explored Black lived experiences. She co-founded Make Ripples, a non-profit outfit dedicated to accessible activism, racial justice, and community empowerment through storytelling. Her creative reach extends to television and advertising. The Spirit of Cinema Award, instituted at the 26th IFFK, honours courageous women filmmakers who wield cinema as a tool of resistance against injustice. Past recipients include Kurdish filmmaker Lisa Kaln, Iranian director Mahnas Mohammadi, Kenyan filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu, and Indias Payal Kapadia. This years festival will present a rich programme, including 14 films in the International Competition section, 12 in Malayalam Cinema Today, and seven in Indian Cinema Now. More than 60 films will be featured in the World Cinema section, while eight will be screened under Kaleidoscope. Additional strands include Female Focus, Midnight Cinema, and Restored Classics. A four-film tribute will mark the centenary of Bengali master Ritwik Ghatak, and the Homage section will showcase two films each by Shaji N Karun and M T Vasudevan Nair. The Country Focus on Vietnam will feature five films commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.
Navy Day celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram: Traffic arrangements in place on December 1, 3
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of the Navy Day celebrations, the Indian Navy will hold a Naval Day Operation Demo at Shankhumukham at 4.30 pm on December 3. Ahead of the main event, a rehearsal programme will be held on December 1 starting at 4.30 pm. As a large crowd is expected, traffic arrangements will be implemented in the city from noon. City police commissioner Thomson Jose pointed out that the public has been allowed to attend the rehearsal as well, and everyone is required to follow the traffic arrangements announced for the day. Only vehicles with passes will be allowed to enter Shankhumukham and Vettucaud from areas, including Chackai, Kallummoodu, Stationkadavu, Valiyathura, Kumarichantha, and Madhavapuram. Passes will be checked, and parking will be available only as per the allocation. Special guests and media vehicles can enter Shankhumukham one hour before the event and must park in designated areas according to the QR code on their passes, said the commissioner. Vehicles arriving later must use alternative routes via Enchakkal, Kallummoodu, Ponnarapalam, Valiyathura, and the domestic airport. For the public without passes, parking has been arranged at multiple locations across the city. From these parking grounds, KSRTC buses will ferry spectators to Vettucaud to view the naval demonstration. Services will begin from 1 pm at a fixed ticket charge and return buses will be provided after the event. The police have informed that people coming from colleges or schools to watch the event must inform the traffic police in advance and confirm their parking arrangements. Airport or railway station travellers are asked to plan their journeys to reach on time. Those heading to the domestic airport should use the Valiyathura, Chackai Flyover, Enchakkal, Kallummoodu, Ponnaraalam, and Valiyathura routes to reach, and return via Sulaiman Street, Vallakkadavu, and Inchakkal. Vehicles going to the international airport should use the Chackai-Ananthapuri Hospital-Service Road route. All travellers must carry their flight tickets in the vehicle. The public is allowed to park only in designated parking areas. Vehicles parked illegally will be removed using recovery services and legal action will be taken. 2,500-3,000 police deployment will be in the city. After the event, spectators should return to the designated parking grounds by boarding KSRTC buses arranged at Vettucaud, avoiding traffic congestion, the commissioner said. Parking locations * Greenfield Stadium and University College, Karyavattom: For those coming from Kollam, Attingal, Pothencode, Sreekaryam * MG College ground: For those arriving via MC Road * Salvation Army, Sanskrit College, University College, University Campus, LMS grounds: For areas like Kowdiar, Peroorkada, Sasthamangalam * Poojappura ground, Jimmy George Indoor Stadium, KWA compound: For Thirumala, Kattakkada areas * Killippalam Boys School, Attukal ground, Homoeo College in Iranimuttom, Putharikandam: For Parassala, Neyyattinkara, Pappanamcode, Karamana * Lulu Mall, Anayara World Market, Karikkakam Temple: For Kovalam, Poonthura, Thiruvallam, Pettah, Enchakkal * Puthenthoppu Church, St Xaviers College: For Varkala, Kadakkavoor, Perumathura
Meter reader took bribe from restaurant owner to keep water bill low in Bengaluru: Lokayukta
BENGALURU: A Lokayukta police probe has revealed that a Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) meter reader was taking Rs 2,000 mamool every month through UPI payment from the owner of a Kerala-based restaurant and a paying guest owner to reduce the bill. When the owner refused to pay the mamool, the meter reader started increasing the water bill, showing the meter reading seamlessly. The accused is Narasimhappa GV, meter reader in Maruthi Nagar sub-division in the city. According to objections filed by Lokayukta police to the bail application filed by Narasimhappa, he was trapped while receiving a bribe from the complainant, Dels Ditto, who has been running a restaurant and paying guest business in Madiwala. Narasimhappa initially started demanding Rs 40,000 and received Rs 20,000 from Dels Ditto, and asked him to pay Rs 2,000 per month. In August 2024, Ditto refused to pay the mamool, following which he started increasing water bill amount. However, it became inevitable for the complainant to pay the remaining mamool, and accordingly, he paid Rs 2,000 each in April, June, July, August, September 2024 and April 2025 through UPI. In February 2024 and August 2024, Rs 2,000 and Rs 5,000 were paid to his mobile number from the mobile number which belongs to the Dittos manager. In November 2025, the accused tendered the water bill of the restaurant to the complainant for Rs 1.43 lakh. But after receiving Rs 10,000 from the complainant, the accused reduced it from Rs 1.43 lakh to Rs 85,000. On November 17, when the complainant met the accused, he demanded the outstanding mamool of Rs 20,000 over 10 months. Inevitably, the complainant has paid him Rs 5,000 through UPI. Despite this, the accused demanded the balance amount. Unable to pay, the complainant approached Lokayukta police. On November 20, 2025, the accused was trapped and arrested by Lokayukta police after he had obtained Rs 10,000 bribe from the complainant in front of his restaurant.
Ramp work for high-speed corridor on Aroor-Thuravoor stretch begins
KOCHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has commenced the critical construction phase for the entry and exit ramps of the six-lane elevated highway stretch between Aroor and Thuravoor, a crucial development set to ease congestion on the heavily choked Ernakulam-Alappuzha corridor. However, the momentum of work is being severely hampered by delays in the relocation of key electrical infrastructure by the KSEB. The 12.75-km elevated highway is designed to provide rapid transit for fast-flowing vehicles, bypassing the local traffic below. To facilitate connectivity, a total of three specialised passages, or ramps, are being constructed to allow vehicles to ascend and descend the high-speed corridor. The ramps are coming up at Aroor (RHS in Alappuzha direction) near Our Lady of Mercy Hospital at Chandiroor (RHS), and at Kuthiyathodu (LHS). The construction involves significant engineering work. The longest among the three is being set up at Kuthiyathodu (401.23 m) while the ramp at Chandiroor is 399.77-m long and the one at Aroor extends to 279.66 m, said a senior NHAI official. While the elevated highway promises substantial saving of time for commuters, this convenience will come at a financial cost. Motorists will be required to pay a separate toll for using the six-lane elevated stretch, the longest single-pillared skyway in the country. Were setting up a new toll plaza specifically for the elevated highway since the construction cost is high. But the same is intended in anticipation of the future rise in vehicular traffic in the section, and to facilitate quick travel, the official pointed out. This new fee will be levied in addition to the existing charges collected at Kumbalam toll plaza, and at another toll booth to be set up at Kalavoor (near Kripasanam), once the highway widening process gets completed. However, the official noted that motorists have the option to utilise the parallel service road below if they wish to avoid the elevated toll. Extra high-tension lines a major hurdle A main hurdle that currently cripples the construction of the ramps is the presence of the extra high tension lines of the KSEB at three points, including the one at Aroor. If the extra high tension line is shifted by the KSEB on a war footing, all the work on the 12.75-km Aroor-Thuravoor stretch will be completed by March 2026, lest the work will get delayed, the NHAI official said. However, the NHAI rued that despite submitting multiple requests to the KSEB, the progress has been slow. We got the reply that they are now focusing on similar work in the Kochi Metro second phase route and they can do the work on the NH section only after that. But we need to remove just three such lines. The non-removal of these critical lines prevents the final connection of the ramps and threatens to push back the commissioning of the high-speed corridor, the official added.
Curb pollution in Pampa caused by discarded clothes: Kerala High Court
KOCHI: Expressing concern over pollution in the Pampa caused by the discarding of clothes by Sabarimala pilgrims, the Kerala High Court on Friday directed the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to launch a campaign against the practice. The TDB must educate pilgrims that discarding clothes in the river is not a ritual, the Division Bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K V Jayakumar ordered. Large quantities of clothes are discarded in the river by pilgrims bathing in the Pampa on their return from Sabarimala, with many of those following the practice being from other states. The court said the TDB should launch a campaign to educate pilgrims that no such ritual exists, the court said. SADYA TO BE SERVED TO PILGRIMS FROM TUESDAY Pathanamthitta: As part of the Annadanam initiative, a full-fledged traditional Kerala sadya (meal) will be served to pilgrims at Sabarimala from December 2, Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president K Jayakumar said on Friday. The sadya will will be served between 12 noon and 3 pm, using steel plates and tumblers. Each day, a different variety of payasam will be served. Jayakumar clarified that due to practical constraints the sadya will not be served on banana leaves as traditionally done. There is an issue of availability and also of disposal. The leaves could create complications at the incinerator and may even attract elephants. Therefore, we have decided to use specially designed steel plates to serve the meal. The plates will arrive today, he said. A forest official engaged in catching a snake KSRTC LAUNCHES NEW INTER-STATE SERVICES FOR SABARIMALA PILGRIMS Kochi: In a move aimed at easing travel for millions of pilgrims from neighbouring states visiting the Sabarimala temple, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched new interstate bus services connecting Pampa directly to destinations in Tamil Nadu.The services in the Pampa-Coimbatore section have commenced. The bus operating in the Coimbatore-Pampa section departs at 9.30pm, allowing pilgrims to reach the holy base camp in the morning. The return journey from Pampa to Coimbatore is scheduled for 9am.KSRTC is all set to inaugurate the Pampa-Tenkasi service starting Saturday. The bus from Tenkasi will depart at 7pm, providing an overnight journey to Pampa. The return bus from Pampa to Tenkasi will leave at 9am. SABARIMALA FOOTFALL CROSSES 11-LAKH MARK Pathanamthitta: The number of devotees who have had darshan at Sabarimala this pilgrimage season has crossed 11 lakh. As of 7 pm on Friday, a total of 11,17,450 pilgrims have visited the shrine. On the 13th day of the Mandalam season, from midnight to 7 pm on Friday, 79,442 pilgrims trekked to Sannidhanam. Despite the rush, devotees are returning after a smooth darshan, as a result of the effective crowd management arrangements in place. Forest dept ramps up facilities on forest route Pathanamthitta: In a wildlife management effort to ensure the safety of Sabarimala pilgrims, the forest department has so far captured 65 snakes from the Sannidhanam-Pampa belt and released them deep inside the forest, since the start of the pilgrimage season. It has introduced extensive safety and support measures for pilgrims trekking via the traditional forest routes. To address emergency situations along the trail, four emergency medical centres and one hospital-level facility have been set up.
Sky-dining platform stuck in mid-air in Adimali; family rescued after two hours
IDUKKI: A four-member family from Kozhikode, currently residing in Mangalore, had a narrow escape after getting stranded 125 ft above ground at a sky-dining restaurant in Anachal near Adimali on Friday. The tourists Muhammad Safwan, 31, his wife Thaufina, 26, and their children Evan, 6, and Ethara, 3 along with a woman staff member of the restaurant, were stuck mid-air for nearly two hours following a malfunction in the crane operating the sky-dining platform. The incident occurred at Southern Sky Dining, an adventure tourism facility operating on a hydraulic lift with a 16-seat platform, located in Pallivasal panchayat. The facility, launched just a month ago, offers a sky-dining experience at a height of 125 ft. According to officials, a sensor-related fault in the crane led to the platform getting stuck mid-air, reportedly due to inadequate maintenance. An official of the Adimali Fire and Rescue Services unit said the family was lifted around noon along with a woman staffer. Officers used ropes and safety harnesses to bring the children down first, followed by the parents and the staffer. The rescue operation lasted nearly two hours.
Coming soon: Bedrolls for hire on sleeper trains to Chennai
KOCHI: Are you planning a train journey in sleeper class in the next few months? If so, you can cross off packing that bedsheet and pillow to make your trip comfortable. Taking note of problems faced by passengers, the Chennai division of Southern Railway has announced that from January 1, 2026, the transporter will provide sanitized, ready-to-use bedrolls on an on-demand, on-payment basis. Travellers from Kerala too would be able to avail the facility since two trains from the state have been included in the list of services in which this facility will be introduced.The train services from Kerala are the 22651/22652 Chennai-Palakkad Express, the 12695/12696 Chennai CentralThiruvananthapuram Express, and, the 22639/22640 Chennai-Alappuzha Express, a railway official said. Announcing the initiative, the Chennai division, in a communique, said that till now sleeper class passengers did not have access to an organised provision of bedrolls. To address this, the Chennai division implemented a pilot project under the New Innovative Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme during 2023-24. The pilot project received an overwhelmingly positive response from passengers, prompting the Railways to introduce this service as a regular non-fare revenue initiative. Under the scheme, a bedsheet, pillow, and pillow cover can be obtained on payment of Rs 50; and a pillow and pillow cover for Rs 30. Passengers can get hold of a single bedsheet for Rs 20. The passengers associations have welcomed the move. This initiative will help passengers travelling to Chennai or Mangaluru. Nearly all passengers on Chennai Mail and other trains make do with their bags as pillows while sleeping on bare berths. Now, that wont be necessary. Another thing that makes this initiative good is that it is not compulsory, as in AC, where the fee for bedsheets, pillows, and blankets is included in the fare, said P Krishnakumar, general secretary of Thrissur Railway Passengers Association.
Is deeply divided Congress shooting itself in the foot in Rahul Mamkoothathil sexual assault case??
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The sexual-harassment case filed against Rahul Mamkootathil has left the Congress in Kerala deeply divided, with one faction led by Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan calling for stern action and another, headed by UDF convenor Adoor Prakash, backing the Palakkad MLA. After remaining silent for weeks, Satheesan spoke out on Friday after police issued a lookout notice. Speaking at an event in Kochi, he reiterated that his stand is based on his conviction. It is not just my view, but the collective stance of the party leadership. Even if all of Kerala rises like the roaring Arabian Sea, I will not abandon my conviction. People will realise this later. Satheesan received the unwavering support of Ramesh Chennithala, his long-time rival. The two were vocal against any kind of clemency for Rahul in the party. Ramesh said he had repeatedly demanded strong action against Rahul. Though, I questioned the option of suspension over strong action, I have come around to favour it, he said. It was Kasaragod MP Rajmohan Unnithan who lambasted Rahul, insisting the party should not divert from its position. Rahul was challenging the survivor on media. No one has the right to speak against the survivor. Anyone doing so cannot be considered a Congressman, he said. Party insiders say there is a split within the leadership in dealing with the crisis in the wake of local-body elections -- and that it does not bode well for the party chances. Discord among senior leaders over Rahul Mamkootathil puts Congress in a fix Satheesan and his supporters argue the Congress should demonstrate strong principles to differentiate it from other parties. The UDF has been in opposition for nearly a decade. To a challenge with multiple advantages, we must show the public that we are different and can act on our beliefs. Unfortunately, we are missing the point, a leader said. Many senior leaders who remain non-partisan echoed the sentiment. This is not about the sentiment of women voters. We now have a distinct section in society who desires good governance, another senior leader said. Meanwhile, a majority of senior leaders, including those holding key party posts, favours a pragmatic approach, prioritising electoral strategy over personal agenda. Leaders who support Rahul include former KPCC chief M M Hassan and K Muraleedharan who alleged the case is politically motivated. The CPM always has these survivors ready. This is an attempt to divert the Sabarimala gold theft issue, he said.
