New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, held a meeting with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi in New Delhi on Wednesday with discussions focussed on bilateral and regional issues, including recent regional developments.

Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali and other officials were also present during the meeting.

"Secretary (West) Sibi George received Dr. Kazem Gharibabadi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of Iran. Discussions focused on bilateral and regional issues, including recent developments," MEA posted on X after the meeting.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi have held several conversations over phone in the past few weeks on a host of bilateral and geopolitical issues since the US-Israeli strikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities on February 28.

Last month, EAM Jaishankar received a phone call from Araghchi during which both ministers held a "detailed conversation" on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, as well as bilateral relations.

"Received a phone call from Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi of Iran this evening. Had a detailed conversation about various aspects of the current situation. We agreed to remain in close touch," EAM Jaishankar posted on X after the latest phone call on April 29.

The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi stated that, during their phone call, Foreign Minister Araghchi and EAM Jaishankar discussed and exchanged views on the latest developments related to the ceasefire, bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues.

"During a phone conversation between Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister of Iran, and Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, the two sides discussed and exchanged views on the latest developments related to the ceasefire, bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues," it posted on X.

On March 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, discussing the security situation in the West Asia region. During the call, PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and also asserted the significance of safeguarding freedom of navigation along with keeping the shipping lanes open and secure.

Both leaders had earlier spoken over phone on March 12 when PM Modi had voiced his concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, pointing to the loss of civilian lives and damage to infrastructure. He had also reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

--IANS

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Kolkata, May 13 (IANS) The West Bengal government has issued an order directing the immediate closure of all unapproved toll gates and drop gates throughout the state that were active during the previous Trinamool Congress regime in the state.

“All toll gates, drop gates, barricaded structures and operational collection points, from which vehicular traffic is operating across the district of West Bengal, which have not been duly approved/authorised by the competent authority of the Government of West Bengal, shall be closed with immediate effect,” read the order issued by the new Chief Secretary, Manoj Kumar Agarwal.

In the order, the District Magistrates have been directed to identify such unauthorised collection points within their jurisdictions, ensure their immediate removal and take necessary steps to prevent their re-establishment without proper authorisation.

“Any collection of fees, charges, or levies at such unauthorised points shall cease forthwith,” read the order from the Chief Secretary.

The District Magistrates have also been advised to immediately ascertain the list of all authorised toll collection points with genuine authority to collect tolls.

“A list of the authorised collection points, both legal and illegal, shall be compiled and submitted to the Under Secretary by 12 noon on 15/05/26 positively. This order will come into force with immediate effect and should be complied with in letter and spirit without fail, else fix the responsibility,” read the order copy.

During the previous Trinamool Congress regime, such unauthorised toll gates mushroomed mainly on state highways and were being run by the ruling party leaders. There had been complaints by truck operators, bus operators and even passengers travelling in their personal vehicles being stopped at these toll gates and forced to pay fees in an unauthorised manner without any receipt.

However, the complaints went in deaf years with the administration not taking any initiative to stop this menace. After taking charge as the new Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari promised an unbiased administration and took all initiatives to weed out such extortion activities.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, May 13 (IANS) Posters have surfaced in parts of Hyderabad, claiming that Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay’s son Bandi Bhageerath, an accused in a POCSO case, is absconding.

The posters carrying the picture of Bandi Sanjay and his son have been pasted on walls by unidentified persons in Chanda Nagar, Nallagandla, and other areas.

“ABSCONDING. Bandi Bhageerath. Son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay involved in sexual assault on minor in Telangana,” reads the poster.

Meanwhile, a few people, including women, were seen carrying posters in Hyderabad Metro, demanding the arrest of Bhagirath.

They were heard informing passengers that Bhageerath is absconding and requesting them to inform the police if they find him.

A few women passengers wondered how he could go absconding. One of the men, carrying posters, alleged that this happened due to the collaboration of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act was registered against Bhageerath on May 8 at Pet Basheerabad Police Station for alleged sexual assault on a 17-year-old girl.

The incident has triggered a huge political row with the main opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) accusing the Congress government of shielding the accused.

BRS leaders and workers have been staging protests for the last four days, demanding the immediate arrest of Bhageerath.

Police on Tuesday served a notice on Bhageerath at his relative’s house in Karimnagar, directing him to appear at Pet Basheerabad Police Station for questioning at 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

Bhageerath, 25, has approached the Telangana High Court, seeking interim bail. A vacation bench is scheduled to hear the petition on Thursday.

Meanwhile, BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao (KTR) questioned the ‘double standards’ following in POCSO cases.

“One Nation - One Tax. One Nation - One Election. BJP wants uniformity in all things. But when it comes to shielding their kith and kin; One POCSO Act - But two standards; one for Union Minister’s Son and another for a common man,” Rama Rao posted on X.

The BRS leader posted a media report about the POCSO case against Bandi Sanjay’s son and another report about the arrest of a fifth person in a separate POCO case registered in Hyderabad.

In another post, KTR alleged that Telangana recorded the highest rate of crime against women in India.

“Under the leadership of CM/Home Minister Revanth, who has the highest criminal cases for any CM in the country. Now Telangana achieved highest rate of crime against women in India and also the topper in cyber crime too,” posted KTR, who remarked “Well done Rahul Gandhi. Telangana is indeed Rising.”

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 13 (IANS) Black Box Limited (BSE: 500463 | NSE: BBOX), the technology arm of Essar and a leading global provider of digital infrastructure solutions, today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of 2S Inovações Tecnológicas S.A., a leading Brazil-based provider of digital infrastructure, data center networking, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed technology solutions.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Black Box’s global growth strategy and further advances its long-term objective of achieving US$2 billion in annual revenues by 2030. The effective date of acquisition is May 1, 2026.

Established in 1992 and headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, 2S Inovações Tecnológicas delivers end-to-end digital infrastructure solutions spanning consulting and strategy, enterprise and data center networking, cloud and hybrid infrastructure, cybersecurity operations, systems integration, managed services, and lifecycle optimization. The company is recognized for its strong capabilities in mission-critical networking, hyperscale-ready data center infrastructure, collaboration, and security solutions built on leading global technology platforms.

The acquisition significantly strengthens Black Box’s capabilities and market presence across Latin America, particularly in high-growth areas such as data center networking, digital connectivity, cybersecurity, and managed infrastructure services. The transaction also reinforces Brazil’s strategic importance within Black Box’s global operations as enterprises, cloud providers, and hyperscalers continue to invest in next-generation digital infrastructure across the region.

Brazil’s rapidly expanding digital economy, increasing cloud adoption, accelerating AI-driven infrastructure investments, and strong engineering talent base position the country as an important regional hub for digital infrastructure transformation and technology services delivery.

“The acquisition of 2S marks another important milestone in Black Box’s global growth journey and further strengthens our strategic position in the high-growth LATAM market,” said Sanjeev Verma, Whole-Time Director & Chief Executive Officer of Black Box.

“2S brings deep expertise in Cisco networking, enterprise and data center infrastructure, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed services, which strongly complements Black Box’s global capabilities across digital infrastructure, networking, connected workspaces, and technology integration."

"As enterprises worldwide accelerate investments in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and digital connectivity, the demand for resilient, scalable, and secure network and data center infrastructure continues to grow significantly. This acquisition enhances our ability to support customers across the full lifecycle of digital infrastructure transformation - from network modernization and data center integration to managed operations and cybersecurity," he said.

"This acquisition also reflects our continued focus on disciplined inorganic growth as a key pillar of our long-term strategy. The transaction is expected to contribute approximately Rs 500 crore in annualised revenues and further strengthen our networking and data center business across Latin America while enhancing our ability to deliver integrated, end-to-end digital infrastructure solutions globally. Together, we are building a stronger platform to drive innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable long-term value for our customers, partners, and shareholders,” Verma said.

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 13 (IANS) Filmmaker Harman Baweja, who has returned as a co-writer and producer for the courtroom drama titled “System”, said that the upcoming film is a compelling story of justice and inequality wrapped inside a deeply gripping narrative.

Harman said in a statement: “System is not just a courtroom drama. It’s a compelling story of justice and inequality wrapped inside a deeply gripping narrative. Co-writing this film has been a very exciting journey for me because writing is something I’ve genuinely started enjoying more and more over time.”

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, the film stars Sonakshi Sinha, Jyotika, and Ashutosh Gowariker in lead roles and revolves around questions of justice, power, and morality within a flawed system.

The filmmaker said that what “made this experience even more special was collaborating with such amazing talent Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari ji, Sonakshi, Jyotika, Ashutosh sir, and the entire team at Prime Video.”

He said that as a producer and writer, it feels great to be part of a film that is entertaining but also says something important.

Harman said: “I’m really looking forward to audiences watching System and connecting with its world and characters.”

Produced by Pammi Baweja, Harman Baweja, and Smitha Baliga, System is written by Harman Baweja, Arun Sukumar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Tasneem Lokhandwala, and Akshat Ghildial. The Prime Original movie is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video.

Talking about Harman, the 45-year-old has also starred in Hindi films such as Love Story 2050, What's Your Raashee?, Victory, and Dishkiyaoon. After a hiatus, he featured in the Netflix drama series Scoop by Hansal Mehta.

It stars Karishma Tanna, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Harman Baweja, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Neha Mishra, Tannishtha Chatterjee and Deven Bhojani.

The series is based on Jigna Vora's biographical memoir Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison. It follows the real-life story of Jigna Vora who was accused of the murder of a reporter in June 2011.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, May 13 (IANS) Acting legend Jack Nicholson might soon step back onto a film set, as the Hollywood legend is finally warming to the idea of a comeback.

The 89‑year‑old icon, who hasn’t appeared in a movie since 2010’s How Do You Know, has long been the subject of speculation about whether he’d ever act again, reports ‘Female First UK’.

Now, according to those closest to him, the answer might finally be shifting toward yes. A source told RadarOnline.com that Nicholson’s inner circle has been gently nudging him toward one final role.

They said, “A lot of his old Hollywood agents and friends have been trying to get him to agree to take on another project for one last hurrah. They all feel like he still has something to offer”.

And it seems the Oscar‑winning star, who turns 90 next April, is no longer dismissing the idea outright. The source went on, “Lately Jack seems to be warming to the idea. He doesn't have the energy he used to have so he's not going to be up for late-night shoots or early morning call times, but the feeling among his inner circle is that he would actually really do well being back on set”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, one person who has never believed Nicholson was truly finished is filmmaker James L. Brooks, who directed him in ‘How Do You Know’, his most recent role, and many projects prior. James L. Brooks insisted the actor was still reading scripts.

He said, “Oh, I don’t think he stopped. I mean, he’s gotten scripts, he’s reading them, and I’m sure we’ll be seeing them”.

Nicholson starred in the romantic comedy How Do You Now alongside Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, and Owen Wilson. From ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ to ‘The Shining’ to ‘As Good As It Gets’, Nicholson’s filmography remains one of Hollywood’s most celebrated.

While he has kept a low profile in recent years, Nicholson did make a rare public appearance in the audience for SNL50: The Anniversary Special last year, sparking renewed interest in his whereabouts, and whether he might ever return to acting.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) Bharat Innovates 2026 is a huge opportunity for Kuwait to partner with India’s maturing deep‑tech sector, Paramita Tripathi, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, wrote in an opinion piece in Times Kuwait.

Kuwait, which is diversifying its economy under Vision 2035 can partner with India’s rapidly maturing deep-tech ecosystem by investing in startups, aligned with Kuwait’s priorities in energy, cybersecurity, fintech, healthcare and medtech, agritech, sustainability, and advanced industries, Tripathi said.

Bharat Innovates 2026 scheduled in Nice, France from 14–16 June 2026, will showcase over 100 deep‑tech innovations from India’s research and higher‑education ecosystem. and invite global investors and partners,

"Bharat Innovates 2026 has invited investors in Kuwait to join India’s deep-tech journey, shape solutions that will define the next decades, and co-create values that transcend borders," the opinion piece said.

Technological innovations at various stages of development will be presented to a global audience comprising industry representatives, investors, policymakers, potential collaborators, and technology partners.

India has pivoted from a leading digital economy to a global hub for deep-tech innovation, shaped by strategic initiatives such as the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0, space sector liberalisation, National Green Hydrogen Mission, and IndiaAI Mission, Tripathi noted.

Further, she highlighted that regulatory reforms and public-private partnerships are accelerating commercialisation pathways, making India a source of innovation and a scalable market.

She highlighted India’s successful space programs such as the Chandrayaan lunar mission, the Mangalyaan Mars mission, and the Aditya L1 solar mission along with its innovations in consumer technology and digital landscape.

The effects of these successes are now spilling into the country's deep tech ecosystem, she noted.

India’s startup ecosystem, comprising over 10,000 initiatives, is tackling challenges in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, clean energy, space and defence technologies, advanced materials, healthcare, medtech, and biotechnology.

“With one of the world’s largest pools of STEM graduates, strong institutions, and an active research culture, India is strongly positioned to translate cutting-edge research into commercially viable solutions,” Tripathi noted.

—IANS

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Mumbai, May 13 (IANS) Actor Sheizaan Khan, who essays the role of Siddhu in the television show ‘Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan’, has called his character in the show a rare sight in the medium of television. The actor said that his character stands out because of his ability to protect the other person’s peace, dignity, and happiness.

In the upcoming track of the show, viewers will witness Indu Rani (played by Shraddha Jaiswal) laying a trap for Siddhu and Sneha by locking them inside a room with the intention of ruining Sneha’s dignity and breaking her upcoming marriage with Shantanu (played by Shehzad Shaikh). Her plan is that when the villagers arrive in the morning, they will assume Siddhu and Sneha spent the night together.

However, despite getting a chance where Sneha’s relationship with Shantanu could break and he could possibly bring his love back into his life, Siddhu chooses a different path. He quietly hides himself before the door opens, ensuring that nobody finds out he was in the room with Sneha. The moment beautifully highlights how, for Siddhu, Sneha’s dignity, peace, and happiness matter far more than his own emotions and love story.

Talking about his part in the show, the actor said, “Personally, I feel Siddhu stands apart from typical TV male leads because his love is deeply rooted in selflessness, respect, and understanding boundaries. He is a rare male character who understands that love is not about possession or winning someone back, but about protecting the other person’s peace, dignity, and happiness”.

“Even when Siddhu gets a moment where he could think about bringing Sneha back into his life, he chooses her well-being over his own emotions and silently steps back. For me, Siddhu’s silent sacrifice is what makes him television’s most respectful lover and truly proves that real love is about protection, respect, and wanting the best for the person you love, even if it doesn’t favour your own love story”, he added.

‘Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan’ airs on Zee TV.

--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

sps/svn

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, May 13 (IANS) Actor Sheizaan Khan, who essays the role of Siddhu in the television show ‘Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan’, has called his character in the show a rare sight in the medium of television. The actor said that his character stands out because of his ability to protect the other person’s peace, dignity, and happiness.

In the upcoming track of the show, viewers will witness Indu Rani (played by Shraddha Jaiswal) laying a trap for Siddhu and Sneha by locking them inside a room with the intention of ruining Sneha’s dignity and breaking her upcoming marriage with Shantanu (played by Shehzad Shaikh). Her plan is that when the villagers arrive in the morning, they will assume Siddhu and Sneha spent the night together.

However, despite getting a chance where Sneha’s relationship with Shantanu could break and he could possibly bring his love back into his life, Siddhu chooses a different path. He quietly hides himself before the door opens, ensuring that nobody finds out he was in the room with Sneha. The moment beautifully highlights how, for Siddhu, Sneha’s dignity, peace, and happiness matter far more than his own emotions and love story.

Talking about his part in the show, the actor said, “Personally, I feel Siddhu stands apart from typical TV male leads because his love is deeply rooted in selflessness, respect, and understanding boundaries. He is a rare male character who understands that love is not about possession or winning someone back, but about protecting the other person’s peace, dignity, and happiness”.

“Even when Siddhu gets a moment where he could think about bringing Sneha back into his life, he chooses her well-being over his own emotions and silently steps back. For me, Siddhu’s silent sacrifice is what makes him television’s most respectful lover and truly proves that real love is about protection, respect, and wanting the best for the person you love, even if it doesn’t favour your own love story”, he added.

‘Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan’ airs on Zee TV.

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 13 (IANS) 'Laughter Chefs' fame celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi made his Bollywood debut with Yash Raj Film’s "Bank Chor".

Now, Harpal is all ready to entertain the movie buffs with his second movie, "Love You Loktantra".

Revealing some more details regarding the project that is slated to premiere on Doordarshan, the celebrity Chef shared, "Love You Loktantra is my second film, and in the film, I have played a small role. I am a bar owner where Krushna Abhishek is performing."

Shedding some more light on his role, he went on to add, "I had prior commitments, so I could not extend my role beyond the time span that I could give. Moreover, this film was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am happy that Love You Loktantra is being premiered on DD National across the world. It is always a good feeling when you see yourself in films.”

Harpal further talked about his brief interaction with Krushna Abhishek, who is also one of the contestants on "Laughter Chefs". He said, ”My experience of working with Krushna during that time was very limited because he was performing as a dance lead, and I had a limited interaction with him during that part. And that was the first time I actually met him, and little did I know that I would be doing Laughter Chefs with him in the future. Our relationship definitely evolved so much since the time we met.”

The Chef revealed that despite not being a seasoned actor, he immensely enjoys the process of acting, ”There is this magic in acting when you know that you are not actually playing yourself and convincing with your craft. I remember Bank Chor gave me a lot of scope. I had almost 18 minutes of role in the film. I was busy launching my food products in Australia. So, I had to limit my role to a certain time. I’m happy that I could play the role opposite Riteish Deshmukh and Vivek Oberoi, and a lot of other characters there. Whoever has seen the film knows that my character is not a funny one, but on a serious side.”

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 13 (IANS) Singer and composer duo Sachet-Parampara are back with another emotional number, "Kaamil". Presented by T-Series and Bhushan Kumar, the song explores the space where silence is able to express more than words ever could.

The music video, which has been directed by Shrishti Riya Jain, includes a massive flashback of memories that slowly turn into moments of hurt and silence. It beautifully chronicles the journey from happy flashes of togetherness to the loneliness that follows.

Sung and composed by Sachet-Parampara, "Kaamil" enjoys lyrics provided by Kausar Munir. The track speaks about the kind of heartbreak that does not rush, but slowly sinks in, resulting in emptiness, overthinking, and that painful realisation of someone’s worth only after they’re gone.

Shedding further light on their latest track, Sachet-Parampara shared, “Every time we create music, our only goal is to give sound to the feelings most people carry silently. The love our audience has shown us over the years has meant everything, and with ‘Kaamil,’ we wanted to give something back - a voice to the emotions they may not always be able to express."

"With ‘Kaamil,’ every melody, every note and every layer was crafted to carry the weight of that kind of heartbreak. It's like composing a letter you never send, but giving it a melody still matters, because sometimes just expressing it is enough. We wanted listeners to feel every bit of it, and if they find pieces of their own story in it, find peace in knowing that even their unspoken feelings have a song - ‘Kaamil'," they went on to add.

As soon as the soulful number was shared on social media, music lovers flooded the comment section with encouraging remarks.

'Kaamil' is now streaming on all platforms, and the music video is out on the T-Series YouTube channel.

--IANS

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Chennai, May 13 (IANS) Actor Daniel Annie Pope, who plays a pivotal role in director A R K Saravan's eagerly awaited fantasy comedy adventure 'Maragadha Naanayam 2', featuring actors Aadhi and Priya Bhavani Shankar in the lead, has now said that shooting for the film had been wrapped up.

Taking to his Instagram page to pen a heartfelt post of appreciation for the unit of 'Maragadha Naanayam 2', Daniel Annie Pope wrote, "From laughs between takes to memories that will stay forever… And just like that, the shoot of 'Maragatha Naanayam 2' is officially wrapped!"

He went on to say, "More than a film, this felt like a beautiful family reunion filled with chaos, fun, bonding, late-night shoots, endless smiles, and unforgettable moments. Every frame carried love, every day carried energy, and every person here made this journey special. @aadhiofficial @nikkigalrani @priyabhavanishankar — tired faces after long schedules, genuine smiles, crazy selfie angles, playful moments, and one big happy cinema family standing together with pride."

He concluded the note saying, "Can’t wait for everyone to witness the magic we created together. Until then… memories packed, emotions wrapped, and hearts full. #MaragathaNaanayam2 #ShootWrapped #CinemaFamily #FamilyReunion #BehindTheScenes TamilCinema MovieWrap TeamWork FunMoments MemoriesForLife Kollywood OnSetVibes Togetherness WrappingMemories MovieMagic."

For the unaware, the film went on floors with a grand pooja ceremony here in the city in February this year.

The 2017 fantasy comedy caper 'Maragadha Naanayam' went on to emerge a blockbuster, prompting its makers to announce a sequel. Earlier this year, one of the film's makers, Passion Studios, released a visual glimpse of the sequel.

Producer Sudhan Sundaram of Passion Studios, had, at that point, said,"I am delighted to produce Maragadha Naanayam 2, a project close to my heart, as I am a massive fan of the original blockbuster. This is a prestigious endeavor designed to draw universal crowds to theatres with its magical entertainment. Like the first part, Aadhi and Priya Bhavani Shankar play the lead roles. Shot on a grander canvas with an expanded star-cast, we are committed to delivering the ultimate entertainer."

'Maragadha Naanayam 2', directed by ARK Saravan and produced by Sudhan Sundaram, Manish Singhal, Durgaram Choudhary, Dev & KV Durai under Passion Studios, Dangal TV, RDC Media, Axess Film Factory & Good Show, will feature Aadhi and Priya Bhavani Shankar in the lead roles.

The film will also feature actors Sathyaraj, Nikki Galrani Pinisetty, Munishkanth, Anandaraj, Daniel Annie Pope, Arunraja Kamaraj, and Muruganandam in pivotal roles.

Dhibu Ninan Thomas has scored the music for this film, which has cinematography by PV Shankar. NK Rahul is the art director for this film and Thirumalai Rajan R is its editor. Rajesh Kannan has penned the dialogues for the fantasy adventure which has stunts choreographed by PC Stunts.

--IANS

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