Thiruvananthapuram, April 22 (IANS) With Kerala waiting for the vote counting day on May 4, the electoral suspense may be overwhelming, but is marked by an intriguing question -- what happens to the precedents set over a decade by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan?

If Vijayan secures a rare third term, continuity is the obvious storyline.

But if power shifts to the Indian National Congress-led UDF, the spotlight will swiftly turn to whether those very precedents, once criticised, suddenly become acceptable tools of governance.

Take the now-defunct Wednesday post-cabinet media briefing. For decades, it was a ritual that symbolised accessibility. Vijayan scrapped it, replacing routine engagement with calibrated communication.

He also put an end to the culture of frequent “sound bites”, choosing instead to speak on his own terms.

Critics cried opacity, but his supporters called it discipline.

The irony? Should a Congress chief minister adopt the same approach, the decibel levels of criticism may depend less on the practice and more on the practitioner.

Then there is the matter of travel.

Former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy famously avoided frequent foreign trips, quipping he did not want to be “haunted and hunted”.

Vijayan flipped that script, undertaking multiple overseas visits pitched as investment drives.

The Opposition derided these as excessive, even coining political punch lines around imported ideas like the much-trolled “room for river” concept post-Netherlands visit. Yet, if a future Congress regime embarks on similar outreach, will it be rebranded as global engagement?

Perhaps the most tangible precedent is logistical, the use of helicopters for intra-state travel. When Vijayan became the first chief minister, he used to regularly fly on a chopper.

With official figures indicating Rs 46.36 crore already spent, despite Kerala’s strained finances, and a standing arrangement with a Delhi-based operator, the optics have been a political lightning rod. The Left defended it as administrative efficiency, the Opposition called it extravagance.

The real test will come if a non-Left chief minister steps into the same chopper. Will the narrative hover or nosedive?

Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V.D. Satheesan has already signalled a reset of sorts, promising that a UDF chief minister would meet the media at least once in ten days.

It’s a subtle acknowledgement that optics matter and those precedents can be selectively embraced or quietly discarded.

Kerala’s political folklore has long carried a wary observation: what is governance when done by the CPI(M) risks becoming controversial when mirrored by the Congress party.

As the state waits with fingers crossed, that line may soon face its most rigorous field test, not in rhetoric, but in practice. Because in Kerala, power doesn’t just change hands.

It rewrites the rulebook, sometimes using the very same ink.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) The Union government said on Wednesday that the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has achieved a historic milestone by surpassing total gross enrolments of nine crore subscribers.

Gross enrolments during the Financial Year 2025–26 crossed 1.35 crore subscribers, marking the highest-ever enrolments recorded in a single financial year since the inception of the scheme, according to a Finance Ministry statement.

Launched on May 9, 2015, with the vision of establishing a universal social security system for all Indians, APY is a flagship social security scheme of the Union government, administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

According to the Ministry, APY is designed to provide a 'Sampurna Suraksha Kavach' (Complete Security Shield) by ensuring benefits like a guaranteed monthly pension ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 for subscribers after attaining 60 years of age.

Also, same pension continues to the spouse after the subscriber's demise and the return of the corpus accumulated till the age of 60, to the nominee after the death of both.

The pension scheme is open to all Indian citizens between the age of 18 and 40 years, except those who are or have been income taxpayers.

APY is a voluntary, contributory pension scheme primarily focused on the poor, the underprivileged, and workers in the unorganised sector.

"Over the past decade, the scheme has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by sustained efforts of banks (Public Sector Banks/Regional Rural Banks/Private Banks/Small Finance Banks/Co-operative banks), State Level Bankers' Committee/Union Territory Level Bankers' Committees/Lead District Managers, the Department of Posts and continuous support from the Union government," the official statement said.

According to the Ministry, PFRDA has played a proactive role in expanding the scheme's footprint across all states and districts in the country, through extensive outreach initiatives, capacity-building programmes, multilingual awareness materials, media campaigns, and regular performance reviews.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) Canada’s move to deepen trade ties with China could pose risks to its economic security and strain relations with the United States, a report has said.

Former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig warned Ottawa’s evolving China strategy as a 'risky play' that may not be viewed favourably in Washington and could complicate ongoing trade discussions with its largest partner, according to the report in Global News.

"The basic problem is that China is not a solution to most of our problems with the US," Kovrig was quoted as saying.

He also cautioned that closer engagement with Beijing could make Canada appear as an 'unreliable ally' in the eyes of the United States.

Kovtig noted that the US accounts for about 75 per cent of Canada’s exports, while China represents only around 4 per cent, underscoring the imbalance in trade dependence, according to the report.

Earlier, the Canadian government announced a deal under Prime Minister Mark Carney, which includes provisions such as importing a limited number of Chinese electric vehicles and easing tariffs on certain Canadian agricultural exports.

The agreement aimed at boosting Canada’s exports to China by 50 per cent by 2030.

Kovrig warned that China is currently 'in selling mode, not in buying mode', and is seeking to expand global reliance on its exports.

He also cautioned that Beijing could use economic leverage to increase its market access over time, including pushing for higher quotas of Chinese electric vehicles beyond the current commitment.

Drawing an analogy, Kovrig said the influx of cheaper imports could undermine domestic industries, similar to how large retailers can displace local businesses, eventually reducing competition and increasing dependence.

He further pointed out that canola, pork and seafood sectors have already become highly dependent on the Chinese market, making them vulnerable to potential trade disruptions.

"If China cuts off that trade, the people in those sectors face an economic catastrophe," he said, adding that such dependence could influence domestic policy decisions.

However, Kovrig did not advocate cutting off ties with China entirely, stressing that engagement should be 'tightly controlled and restricted' with safeguards to prevent misuse.

The report further highlighted that other experts have echoed similar concerns, warning that the deal could impact negotiations to renew the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Actor Randeep Hooda has given several memorable performances throughout his career, one of them being his role as Shankar Singh Malik in the 2016 black comedy "Laal Rang".

Marking a decade of the film's release on Wednesday, Randeep said that it has been 10 years, and he can still feel the color on him.

“Das saal hoge par yo laal rang na chhodta manne.. thara favourite kunsa se? (It’s been ten years, but this red color still doesn’t leave me… which one is your favorite?)," Randeep wrote on his latest Insta post.

Directed by Syed Ahmad Afzal and produced by Nitika Thakur, in collaboration with Krian Media, the primary cast of the drama includes Randeep, Akshay Oberoi, and Piaa Bajpai in significant roles, along with others.

The film follows the journey of Rajesh and Shankar, two friends who end up becoming a part of the illegal blood bank trade. However, they are soon faced with the consequences of their actions.

Backed by Krian Media, the movie has camera work by Dhirendra Shukla with Shounok Ghosh as the head of the editing department.

Up next, Randeep is preparing for the release of his first movie after embracing fatherhood.

Going by the sources, he is already done with the first schedule of this untitled drama.

A source close to the project revealed, “Post fatherhood, this project marks a meaningful new chapter for Randeep. He was immediately drawn to the film’s strong subject and its grounding in true events. The character and the story deeply resonated with him.”

Directed by Anjit Bhatnagar, Randeep will reportedly be seen as a Haryanvi Jaat in his next.

Furthermore, Randeep will also be seen essaying a crucial role in "Eetha".

Led by Shraddha Kapoor, the movie is based on the life of Marathi folk dancer Vithabai Narayangaonkar.

"Eetha" will mark the primary onscreen pairing of Randeep and Shraddha.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested a head-constable of the Delhi Police’s Anti-Narcotic Cell on Tuesday for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 2 lakh from a complainant in exchange for not falsely implicating her in a criminal case.

The accused, identified as Ajay, was posted with the Anti-Narcotics Cell in Delhi’s Dwarka, the CBI said in a statement on Wednesday, without disclosing the identity of the complainant.

"The CBI registered a case on April 21 against the accused head-constable and other unidentified persons following a formal complaint. The accused had initially demanded Rs 15 lakh to spare the complainant from legal action," the CBI said.

The agency laid a trap on Tuesday after receiving information that the accused had directed the complainant to deliver an initial part-payment of Rs 5 lakh.

Ajay was caught red-handed while accepting a negotiated sum of Rs 2 lakh. During subsequent searches of the official's premises, investigators recovered and seized unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 48.87 lakh.

This arrest follows a string of similar crackdowns on corruption within local law enforcement. In March 2026, the CBI apprehended two Delhi Police personnel in the Rohini sector for allegedly extorting Rs 5 lakh from a businessman by threatening to frame him in a fake gambling case.

Similarly, in February, a Sub-Inspector in South Delhi was taken into custody for demanding Rs 10 lakh to dilute charges in an ongoing investigation. The CBI reiterated that these actions reflect a firm commitment to curbing malpractice among public servants.

The agency has urged citizens to report any demands for illegal gratification by public officials immediately.

The arrested head-constable is expected to be produced before a special CBI court on Wednesday for custodial interrogation.

Further investigation is underway to identify the "other unknown persons" mentioned in the First Information Report (FIR) and to determine the source of the recovered cash.

--IANS

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Bhopal, April 22 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government on Wednesday said that the historic city of Dhar has been selected under the Centre’s ‘Safe Cities’ project for 2026, marking a significant step towards strengthening women’s safety infrastructure and urban security in the state.

The announcement comes at a time when the debate over the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ has already brought women-centric policies into sharp political focus.

According to the Madhya Pradesh government's statement, Dhar is among 10 major cities identified across the country under the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s initiative, which is fully funded by the Central Government.

"An allocation of Rs 10 crore has been made for Dhar district under the project, which will be implemented for a minimum period of five years," the Madhya Pradesh government said in a statement on Wednesday.

It further said the primary objective of the scheme is to make public spaces in Dhar completely safe and women-friendly through upgraded infrastructure and surveillance systems.

"The plan includes installation of CCTV cameras at sensitive locations, improved street lighting, and better monitoring mechanisms across the city," it added.

The government further stated that special facilities will be developed in district hospitals and health centres, including dedicated waiting areas for women and their families. Construction of ‘Pink Toilets’ in public places and strengthening of women-friendly amenities at tourist spots will also be part of the project.

Emphasising social aspects, the statement added that awareness campaigns and training programmes will be conducted in Dhar to promote community sensitivity towards women’s safety and empowerment.

The initiative also aims to support the mental and social empowerment of women alongside physical infrastructure improvements.

Dhar, which holds significant historical and archaeological importance, is known for its cultural heritage and ancient legacy in central India.

The government said the development of specialised facilities for women tourists is expected to enhance its image as a safe and globally attractive destination.

The statement also noted that Dhar is witnessing rapid infrastructure growth, particularly with the establishment of the PM MITRA Park in the district.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone of the mega textile park on September 17, 2025, which is expected to generate large-scale employment and industrial development in the region.

--IANS

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Lucknow, April 22 (IANS) The controversy that erupted over Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal's purported remark aimed at Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav's late mother refuses to die down, with the former claiming SP activists staged an "abusive" protest at her house.

While Akhilesh Yadav has condemned her remark, Kharkwal on Wednesday alleged that she was attacked by people related to the party.

Reacting to the defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, Kharkwal had allegedly remarked that it was an "insult to the mother who gave birth to Akhilesh Yadav".

Akhilesh Yadav, in turn, lashed out at the Lucknow Mayor on Tuesday, requesting that she not to invoke his late mother for "political compulsions".

"In Indian society, the insult of anyone's mother is never acceptable. Your political future would have been bright if you had not dragged it down to such low moral standards; today, even your supporters are ashamed. Those you are stooping to your level to influence are not close relatives of anyone. Maintain your dignity and balance as well," he said in a post on X.

"Besides, you yourself are a woman. When a woman insults another woman, who will call you morally right," Akhilesh Yadav added.

Issuing a clarification, Kharkwal said, "Please listen to my whole speech to know what I meant to say. After listening that you will realise what my intentions were and how it was interpreted. I am a mother myself, I have not said anything wrong for somebody else's mother."

Speaking to IANS, the Mayor said: "I had said that this ‘half population’ represents your mother, and you have insulted your mother. This ‘half population’ represents your sister, the one whose finger you held while learning to walk, and you have insulted that sister. This ‘half population’ represents your daughter, whose face brings relief after a tiring day, and you have insulted that daughter."

Moreover, she alleged that she was attacked in the morning.

"Today, some people came to my house in the morning and raised ‘murdabad’ slogans, hit my nameplate with a shoe, and abused me. I do not want to say anything further. The kind of values their party has given them has been exposed by their actions," she claimed.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party workers staged a demonstration outside the Mayor's residence to protest her alleged remarks linked to the SP chief's mother.

--IANS

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Patna, April 22 (IANS) A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday morning in Khairpur Kadwa under the Naugachhia police district of Bihar, where three labourers lost their lives due to suspected toxic gas exposure while cleaning a septic tank.

The accident occurred at around 8:30 A.M. in Purva Tola, Ward No. 3, at the residence of Jwala Yadav.

According to an official, the workers had entered the septic tank during ongoing construction work when they were overcome by poisonous gases.

One after another, all three men collapsed inside the tank.

Local residents said a fourth individual noticed something was wrong when the workers stopped responding.

He immediately raised an alarm, prompting villagers to act swiftly.

In a desperate rescue attempt, they broke a portion of the wall to pull the men out and rushed them to the Naugachhia Sub-Divisional Hospital. However, doctors declared all three dead on arrival.

The deceased have been identified as Bam-Bam Mandal, Jaynandan Mandal, and Shrilal Mandal, all residents of Lachhminia village in the Kadwa police station area.

Police teams from Kadwa and Naugachhia reached the spot soon after receiving information and initiated an investigation.

According to the Station House Officer (SHO) of Kadwa police station, the workers had entered the tank around 8:00 A.M. and stopped communicating after some time, raising suspicion among those standing outside.

Authorities stated that the victims were taken out within minutes of the police being informed and were rushed to the hospital, where they were declared dead.

“Post-mortem examinations have been conducted, and the bodies have been handed over to their families,” the SHO said.

The incident has triggered outrage and grief in the local community, with a large number of villagers gathering at the hospital.

Families of the deceased are in deep shock following the sudden loss of their men.

An FIR has been registered against the house owner, and further investigation is currently underway to determine lapses in safety measures and accountability in the incident.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) Maharashtra NCP(SP) President Shashikant Shinde has written a commemorative editorial in the party’s magazine, shedding light on the hidden dynamics of the split and the alleged merger plans between the two NCP factions.

Shinde claimed that late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was forced to exit the original NCP due to threats and conspiracies orchestrated by "invisible powers."

He further said that a final decision to merge the two parties was reached in the presence of Maratha strongman Sharad Pawar and was to be announced on February 12.

In a massive revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders had agreed to hand over the entire command of the unified party to Ajit Pawar following the merger.

“Fulfilling this merger and rebuilding the party with strength would be the only true tribute to Ajit Dada," Shinde wrote.

Shinde clarified, "It was our decision to hand over all party responsibilities to Ajit Dada once the merger process was complete. However, fate had other plans. We were all mentally prepared to accept Ajit Dada’s leadership.”

Shinde appealed to the party faithful, asserting that a merger is the only true tribute to the late leader. He noted, “Ajit Pawar’s dream remains unfulfilled, and it is now the party's responsibility to complete it. Unity: Reuniting and strengthening the NCP is the ultimate goal. Leaders and workers must set aside their differences and broaden their perspective to achieve this unity.”

Following the publication of the article, senior NCP(SP) leader and former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh remarked, "I am unaware of what our State President has said. Since he wrote the article, he likely has more information than I do. I personally have no knowledge of this matter."

While Sharad Pawar has avoided commenting publicly on the matter, Shinde’s article has brought these behind-the-scenes developments to light. However, Shinde’s revelations have sparked a new controversy and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has reacted with sharp skepticism.

Party spokesperson Suraj Chavan questioned the timing of these claims. Chavan alleged that discussing a merger while the leader’s mortal remains were still at Vidya Pratishthan suggests a "lust for power" rather than genuine respect. He clarified that Sunetra Pawar is now the ultimate authority of their party and any dialogue must happen through her.

Further, the party legislator Amol Mitkari stated that no such merger discussions have occurred within their internal party meetings, attributing the rumours to the rival camp's leaders.

While the Pawar family continues to demonstrate a unique balance of political rivalry and familial bond — recently seen at family weddings — the political future remains clouded.

All eyes are now on Sunetra Pawar. Whether she will pursue the "unfulfilled dream" of a unified NCP or maintain a separate identity, remains a question that will define the next chapter of Maharashtra politics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India’s share in global electronics demand has expanded at a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2 per cent, significantly outpacing global growth of 4.4 per cent between 2015 and 2024, driven primarily by the sharp rise in mobile phone exports, according to NITI Aayog's Trade Watch Quarterly report for July-September 2025-26, launched on Friday.

Between 2016 and 2024, electronics exports increased nearly five-fold, reaching USD 42.1 billion. With global electronics trade valued at USD 4.6 trillion, the sector represents one of the largest and fastest-evolving segments of the world economy. India has demonstrated particular strength in products such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, and communication equipment, with exports increasingly directed towards major final-consumption markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the report states.

Electronics, the thematic focus of this quarter's edition, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's manufacturing and export transformation. Now the second-largest item in India's export basket, the sector is both technology-led and deeply interconnected with industries such as automotive, renewable energy, telecom, defence, and digital services, making it a powerful multiplier for industrial growth.

The report states that having established a strong foothold in assembly and system integration, India is now entering the next phase of its electronics journey, moving decisively toward component manufacturing and higher value addition. This transition is supported by targeted policy measures, including the Union Budget's Rs 40,000 crore allocation under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

The analysis underscores that sustained competitiveness will be driven by deeper integration into global electronics value chains, encompassing printed circuit board design, semiconductor assembly and testing, power electronics, and embedded systems. Complemented by continued improvements in logistics efficiency, tariff rationalisation, and industry-aligned skill development, these shifts position electronics as a key engine of India's export growth and technological advancement in the coming decade.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery said, "Electronics, as the organising core of modern manufacturing value chains, with semiconductors and components, plays a key role in determining trade balances and technological sovereignty. While India has achieved scale in final assembly, sustained competitiveness will depend on correcting structural cost disabilities, deepening domestic component ecosystems, and leveraging anchor investments in components to embed Indian firms more firmly within global production networks."

The publication also provides a comprehensive assessment of global and domestic trade trends at a time when global trade growth has moderated but remains positive, with services continuing to outperform goods and developing regions emerging as key drivers.

The analysis highlights that India's trade performance in Q2 FY26 was driven by export-led momentum sustaining the overall trade expansion amid heightened global uncertainty. Services and merchandise exports recorded robust growth of around 8.5 per cent, outpacing import growth in both merchandise and services.

At a structural level, the edition underscores the deepening of trade among developing economies, which has expanded nearly four-fold since 2005 and now accounts for a rising share of global exports, with India’s trade trajectory increasingly aligned with this Global South rebalancing through regional value chains and new trade corridors.

Further, this edition highlights the growing role of e-commerce as a key enabler of future export growth. India is now among the world’s top six e-commerce markets, with electronics accounting for nearly half of online retail.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) In a farmer-centric step to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to producers, the Centre on Friday approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products.

According to a Consumer Affairs Ministry statement, wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025–26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, which is nearly 32 LMT higher compared to the corresponding period last year.

"This substantial year-on-year increase indicates a comfortable supply position in the country. Furthermore, as on April 1, 2026, total wheat availability in the central pool with FCI is projected at around 182 LMT, thus ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements," it said.

Moreover, wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.

This reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest, the official statement further added.

The decision to permit export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT wheat products will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and further strengthen farmers’ income while ensuring national food security.

Meanwhile, to facilitate sugar exports, the government decided to allow export of an additional 5 LMT of sugar to willing sugar mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.

Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 LMT of sugar during the current Sugar Season 2025–26. This decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country.

As per data, only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026.

In addition, approximately 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills to date.

The ministry said that the additional export quantity of 5 LMT shall be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Producer Ektaa Kapoor is inviting suggestions from the viewers of the show ‘Broken But Beautiful’. On Wednesday, Ektaa took to her Instagram, and shared clips from the show.

She also penned a long note in the caption, as she wrote, “Should we do another season? And who should be the couple? Some suggestions guys?”.

This question has since set the internet buzzing with speculation and wish lists. With ‘Broken But Beautiful’ already enjoying a loyal fan base for its emotionally layered narratives and memorable performances, the idea of a new season has naturally generated massive anticipation.

Meanwhile, adding to her recent success, her film ‘Bhooth Bangla’ has emerged as one of the first hits of the year, further cementing her status as a powerhouse producer who knows exactly what works.

The film also stars Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Jisshu Sengupta, Asrani and Mithila Palkar. In fact, Ektaa had revealed that Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar once returned her the money after one of their earlier collaborations didn’t work at the box-office. She spoke about the superstar’s generosity and ethics.

She told the media, “Not many people know this about him but once, he returned the cheque saying that, ‘You have lost money because of this film’. I was in shock, nobody does this. I have been in the industry for 31 years, and I haven’t seen anyone doing that. He just casually handed over the cheque to me saying, ‘Take it’. I then told him, ‘No you will have to do a film with me’, and that's how this film got made”.

Presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with Cape of Good Films, ‘Bhooth Bangla’ is directed by Priyadarshan, and produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor, and Ektaa R Kapoor.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Indian auteur Imtiaz Ali, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film ‘Main Vapas Aaunga’, has spoken about how Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh’s spontaneity adds value to his stories.

The director spoke with IANS during the promotions of ‘Main Vapas Aaunga’, and spoke about the duality of challenges and smoothsail while working with Diljit.

When asked how it opens up new avenues for him to have Diljit a spontaneous performer in his stories, he told IANS, “It makes the job very, very challenging, because it makes it easier. And you are at an angle where you feel that you can communicate more, you can communicate very easily. There is an ease in communication that I have with him to begin with. You say half the sentence, he gets the rest of it, and then he comes with so much. He's coming from a place of purity, he's also more connected to the audience. People get him”.

He further mentioned, “People understand what he's going through on screen. So that is a vehicle for me. To work with an actor like that, it is so transparent. It becomes a challenge because I feel, ‘am I giving everything to this demon that he can chew?’ The worst thing that one can do with an actor is to restrain them and to under use them. So, one has to be careful about that. But I'm very glad that this is so much a part of his psychosomatic, cultural, social, historical existence of this role”.

Produced by Sameer Nair and Deepak Segal of Applause Entertainment, along with Mohit Choudhary and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films. ‘Main Vapas Aaunga’ is set to release in cinemas on June 12, 2026.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) As we all celebrate 'Earth Day' on Wednesday, newbie actress Rasha Thadani has urged all to focus on protecting our animals as a crucial part of saving the planet.

Rasha stressed that animals play a significant role in ensuring our survival.

The 'Azaad' actress took to social media and dropped a cute video of herself trying to shake hands with a street dog.

Talking about the significance of the survival of all forms of life on earth, Rasha went on to write on her official Instagram handle, "Happy Earth Day. I hope this year we understand the importance of our forests and our wildlife. Earth Day isn’t just about the beaches and mountains that Mother Earth has gifted us, it’s about all life on Earth. (sic)"

"Protecting animals is a key part of protecting the planet. Our survival is directly dependent on them, the sooner we understand that- the better for us," she went on to add.

Not only her, but another Bollywood beauty, Shilpa Shetty, also published a post this "Earth Day".

The 'Dhadkan' actress used the opportunity to remind everyone that it is extremely crucial to keep in touch with nature.

She shared that it is only by connecting with our Mother Earth that we truly come to realize who we really are.

Shilpa penned on the photo-sharing app, "On Earth Day and every day, a gentle reminder to “ground yourself “ bare feet on the earth, letting her energy heal and restore you...reconnect with nature, the sun on your skin, soil beneath your feet, birds chirping, waves whispering, and the breeze brushing your face... because when you touch the Earth, you remember who you truly are. (sic)".

'Earth Day' was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, as an initiative by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson to address the growing concerns regarding pollution, industrial waste, and the resultant environmental degradation.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan’s Sunaina Roshan, on the 22nd of April, took to her social media to wish her parents, Bollywood veteran actor Rakesh Roshan and Pinkie Roshan, on their 55th wedding anniversary.

The doting daughter shared a heartfelt note celebrating their forever bond, and expressed what they mean to her.

“Happy 55th Anniversary to the two people who showed me what love, strength and commitment truly look like. Everything I am today is shaped by all that you’ve given me so selflessly. Your love is beautiful, steady and deeply inspiring. Love you both @pinkieroshan @rakesh_roshan9,” she wrote.

The picture shared by Sunaina shows Rakesh Roshan standing behind Pinkie Roshan and Sunaina as the ladies sit together on a couch, all smiling for the camera and dressed in classy ensembles.

For the uninitiated, Rakesh Roshan and Pinkie Roshan tied the knot in 1971 and have since then been together for over five decades now.

Pinkie Roshan is the daughter of ace filmmaker J. Om Prakash.

For the uninitiated, Rakesh Roshan is the son of legendary music composer Roshan, and went on to carve his own path in Bollywood as an actor, producer and director.

From Karan Arjun, Khoon Bhari Maang, to Koi... Mil Gaya, and the successful Krrish franchise, Rakesh Roshan had been the man behind all the mentioned classics.

His brother, Rajesh Roshan, is a renowned music composer known in Hindi cinema.

Rakesh and Pinkie are parents to two children, Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan and Sunaina Roshan.

Talking about Hrithik Roshan, he made his debut in 2000 with Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, which turned out to be a huge blockbuster and continues to be remembered even 26 years after its release.

Talking about Sunaina, the elder daughter of Rakesh and Pinkie, has been sharing videos on her social media account wherein she talks about her struggles with certain addictions, low-life conditions, emotional discrepancies and other topics.

A few weeks ago, she had opened up about her personal battle with addiction and struggle with alcohol, junk food and sweets. She stated how admitting the problem and accepting it became a very tough life-changing moment.

She also highlighted how addiction often goes unnoticed, and said that addiction can take many forms, food, alcohol, even habits one doesn't realise they are clinging to.

Sunaina further stressed that the right approach and a solid support system played a crucial role in her recovery.

Encouraging others who may be dealing with similar struggles, Sunaina emphasized on the importance of seeking help and being patient with oneself during the tough journey. “

For the uninitiated, Sunaina Roshan has previously battled serious medical issues, including cancer and a brain condition, emerging victorious and healthy.

---IANS

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