Month: September 2024

Union Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda addressed the Parivartan Sabha in Khunti on Monday, emphasising that the ‘parivartan yatra’ aims to uphold the rights of tribal communities, safeguard women’s rights, protect them against land grabbing, and take strong action against those who have deceived them.

Addressing a public rally in Khunti on Monday, JP Nadda said, “This Parivartan Yatra is a resolve to safeguard the rights of our innocent tribal brothers, a resolve to protect our mothers and daughters. This Parivartan Yatra is a journey to protect those who are trying to usurp the lands of the tribal brothers and to assure you that action will be taken against those who have cheated them.”

“Today I have received the good fortune to start this Parivartan Yatra on the holy land of Khunti. I believe this yatra will bring change in Jharkhand. I wish you all the best for this and also hope that you make this Parivartan Yatra successful,” said the BJP chief.

Taking a dig at the Hemant Soren-led JMM government, Nadda said, “When JMM talks about ‘Adivasi Asmita,’ their ‘Asmita’ is restricted to their own family. Is Champai Soren, not a tribal leader? Is Sita Soren, not a tribal leader? Why were they humiliated? It is only the BJP that will protect the interests of tribal people,” said Nadda.

Adding further, Nadda said, “15th November is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, PM Modi has decided to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh”

“PM Modi is the only Prime Minister to visit the ancestral village of Lord Birsa Munda. He bowed to that soil. Droupadi Murmu is the first woman belonging to a tribal community that has been made the President of India,” said Nadda.

The BJP chief also launched an attack on the ruling JMM-led alliance in Jharkhand, accusing it of betraying the tribal community and patronising infiltrators for votes.

Highlighting the alleged mistreatment of senior tribal leader Champai Soren, Nadda claimed that the former chief minister was humiliated within his party, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), after being forced to step down upon Hemant Soren’s return from jail.

“Tribal leader Champai Soren was humiliated and forced to leave the JMM,” said Nadda addressing a rally in Jharkhand’s Khunti.

The BJP president also raised concerns over a sharp decline in the tribal population, attributing it to what he described as the unchecked rise of infiltrators in the state.

Earlier on September 20, while addressing a rally in Jharkhand’s Giridih, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on the Hemant Soren-led JMM government in Jharkhand, accusing it of committing “injustice” against the people of the state.

Speaking at the BJP’s ‘Parivartan Sabha’ in Giridih, Shah urged the public to vote out the current government and bring the BJP to power, promising transformative changes for the poor, Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs in the state.

“We started a yatra from the Palamu division this morning, and another from Giridih. Both have been named ‘Parivartan Yatra’. Three more yatras will be taken out, each carrying the message of ‘parivartan’ (change) to every assembly constituency in Jharkhand,” Shah said.

Amit Shah flagged off the ‘Parivartan Yatra’ in Jharkhand’s Sahibganj district on September 20 afternoon. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Jharkhand BJP chief Babulal Marandi, and former CM Champai Soren were present on the occasion.

Jharkhand is set to go to polls for its 81-member legislative assembly later this year, as the current government’s tenure ends in 2024. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is yet to announce the dates. (ANI)

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Bollywood star Aamir Khan is beaming with pride as the film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ made under his banner has been picked as India’s official entry for Oscars 2025.

A few hours after the Film Federation of India on Monday announced the movie as India’s official entry in the Best Foreign Film Category, Aamir issued a statement in which he congratulated his former wife-director Kiran Rao and the entire team of ‘Laapataa Ladies’.

“We are all so happy with the news. I am so proud of Kiran and her entire team. I would like to thank the selection committee of the Film Federation of India, which chose our film to represent India at the Oscars,” he wrote.

“My heartfelt gratitude to our audience, our media, and the entire film fraternity, for all the love and support they have given Laapata Ladies. Thanks to both Jio and Netflix who have been great partners to work with. I am so happy that all our hard-work has paid off. Thank you everyone. Here’s hoping that Laapata Ladies is able to win the hearts of the members of the Academy. Love a,” Aamir added.

Directed by Kiran Rao and produced under the banners of Aamir Khan Productions, Kindling Pictures, and Jio Studios, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ was released in theatres on March 1, 2024. It starred Sparsh starred Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastav, Ravi Kishan and Chhaya Kadam.

‘Laapataa Ladies’ takes viewers back to rural India in 2001. Its narrative revolves around two brides who get exchanged during a train journey. The journey filled with twists and turns begins as their husbands start searching for the real bride.

Speaking with ANI, Kiran expressed her gratitude for recognising her piece of hard work and giving her a chance to make her film reach a global audience.

“I am very happy. I was not expecting an Oscar entry as many good films have been made this year. Now we will have a chance to show this film to a much larger audience. I would like to thank the audience for giving so much love to this film. I think there is something for everyone in this film,” she shared.

While she looks forward to taking the journey ahead with great enthusiasm, she understands that the road to the Oscars will be challenging.

“The film was made on the issues, expectations and aspirations of women. When such a film becomes the country’s official entry to the Oscars then it is very encouraging. I think with this it feels like we are going in the direction of finding solutions to many problems faced by women. People have appreciated the introduction of new faces and talents in this film. It took us 4-5 years to make this film, I want to thank the whole team of the film… Oscars ka raasta lamba aur kathin hota hai par hum apni taraf se puri koshish karenge (The journey to Oscars is not going to be easy but we will give it all),” Kiran emphasised.

‘Laapataa Ladies’ was produced under the banners of Aamir Khan Productions, Kindling Pictures, and Jio Studios, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ .Kiran also shared how Aamir reacted to the news.

“Aamir is extremely happy. He congratulated the entire team,” she shared.

Kiran also took to Instagram and penned a lengthy note.”I am deeply honoured and beyond delighted that our film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India,” she said.

The director added, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and to everyone who believed in this film. It is indeed a great privilege to be selected from among such amazing Indian films this year – who are equally worthy contenders for this honour”. (ANI)

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The highly anticipated 18th season of ‘Bigg Boss’ is set to premiere on October 6 at 9 PM, with Salman Khan returning as host.

This marks his comeback after skipping ‘Bigg Boss OTT 3,’ which was hosted by his ‘No Entry’ co-star, Anil Kapoor.

The first promo for ‘Bigg Boss 18,’ released last week, featured only Salman’s voice introducing this season’s theme: ‘Time Ka Tandav’ (the havoc of time).

A new promotional clip aired on Sunday night, showcasing Salman in a dark blue shirt and black suit, standing atop a massive ticking clock.

In the video, he elaborates on the theme, stating that while the Bigg Boss eye has traditionally focused on the present, it will now also explore the past and future.

The promo is visually captivating, with Salman embarking on a journey reminiscent of a time machine, surrounded by hourglasses, masks, and cameras.

He concludes with a powerful reiteration of the season’s theme, ‘Time ka Tandav.’

The accompanying Instagram post from Colors TV emphasizes the excitement, stating, “Iss baar ghar mein bhuchaal aayega, kyunki Bigg Boss mein Time Ka Taandav chaayega!” (An earthquake will strike the house this time, because the havoc of time will dominate Bigg Boss).

Salman Khan has been a staple of the show since its fourth season in 2010, having also hosted ‘Bigg Boss OTT 2’ on JioCinema.

The inaugural season of ‘Bigg Boss OTT’ was hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar.

The previous season, ‘Bigg Boss 17,’ saw stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui emerge as the winner.

With Salman back at the helm, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season. (ANI)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at Lotte New York Palace Hotel in New York on Sunday (local time).

The Prime Minister expressed “deep concern” at the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reaffirmed India’s continued support to the Palestinian people.

“PM @narendramodimet H.E. Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine, on the sidelines of UNGA today. PM expressed deep concern at the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reaffirmed India’s continued support to the people of Palestine,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated in a post on X.

Notably, India has long weighed for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to condemn the horrific terror attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, but India has repeatedly expressed concerns over the deteriorating situation in Gaza.

India also sent humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza as part of its commitment. In July, India released the first instalment of 2.5 million dollars to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, UNRWA, for Palestine refugees for the year 2024-25.

Prior to this, PM Modi also held bilateral meetings with Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.

Along with Kuwait’s Crown Prince, PM Modi reviewed India-Kuwait bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen our historical linkages and strong people-to-people contacts.

During his meeting with PM Oli, Prime Minister Modi discussed matters of mutual interest to strengthen cooperation in all areas of the age-old, multi-faceted and expanding India-Nepal partnership.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi interacted with the top tech leaders and CEOs of the USA, in a Roundtable hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) School of Engineering, in New York today.

PM Modi emphasized India’s growth prospects and discussed initiatives to foster collaborations and innovation across diverse sectors, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated.

PM Modi arrived in New York in the second leg of his three-day visit to the United States. On Saturday, PM Modi took part in the Quad Summit and held bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

The Prime Minister addressed a huge gathering of the Indian diaspora at the Nassau Coliseum in New York on Sunday.

He will also address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the UN General Assembly in New York today. (ANI)

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Following a roundtable meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CEOs from Accenture and HP Inc. have expressed their optimism and commitment to expanding operations in India.

The roundtable, hosted by PM Modi and held in New York on the second day of his three-day US visit, discussed India’s role in the global technology landscape, highlighting the country’s growing importance as a hub for innovation and digital solutions.

Accenture CEO Julie Sweet praised PM Modi’s leadership and outlined the company’s plans to further grow its operations in India.

“I was honoured to meet with PM Modi and to hear more about his leadership and vision for the next decade. After having such a great decade, really making India such an important part of the global technology landscape,” said Accenture CEO.

She also emphasized Accenture’s commitment to continuing its expansion in India, stating, “I was also very excited to hear about the commitment of so many other companies like Accenture to continue to grow our business in India and to have our individuals in India serve the globe. It’s an exciting time.”

HP Inc. CEO Enrique Lores also expressed enthusiasm about India’s growing technology and manufacturing potential, underscoring the company’s plans to expand its footprint in the country.

“We’re clearly appreciative for the PM to learn and understand what we need to continue to expand in India. We just announced that we are expanding our manufacturing capabilities in India. So, we were very proud to share that with the Prime Minister,” said Lores.

The roundtable, which brought together several global tech CEOs, is part of PM Modi’s efforts to deepen India’s partnerships with international technology leaders. As India continues to enhance its digital infrastructure, companies are seeing greater opportunities for collaboration and investment.

The Prime Minister’s focus on expanding India’s role in the global tech industry has resonated with international corporations.

With a rapidly growing digital ecosystem, a young and skilled workforce, and significant policy reforms aimed at promoting innovation and manufacturing, India is positioning itself as a preferred destination for tech giants.

The tech roundtable with PM Modi focused on Artificial Intelligence and Quantum, Biotechnology and Life Sciences; Computing, IT and Communication, and Semiconductor technologies.

The CEOs participated in a deep dive with Prime Minister Modi on the evolving technology landscape at a global level and how these cutting-edge technologies are contributing to the well-being of people around the world including in India.

They touched upon how technology is being leveraged for innovations, which have the potential to revolutionize the global economy and human development. (ANI)

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The Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, asserted that the INDIA bloc will provide statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and said that earlier, people used to make decisions through their elected MLAs, but today a king (LG) has been appointed who is an outsider who cannot understand what is in the hearts of the people.

Addressing a public rally on Monday, Rahul Gandhi said, “Earlier, in Jammu & Kashmir, people used to make decisions through their elected MLAs, but today a king has been appointed. The LG is like a king, and he is an outsider. That’s why he cannot do what is in the hearts of the people of J-K. He doesn’t even know how to do it.”

He asserted further that the democratic rights of the Jammu and Kashmir people have been snatched.

“In India, UTs were made states. States were divided. Madhya Pradesh was divided to form Chhattisgarh, Bihar was divided to form Jharkhand, and Andhra Pradesh was divided to form Telangana. But, never in the history of India, a state was made UT. For the first time, the rights of the people of the state have been snatched and it has been made a UT. You have been subjected to injustice, your democratic rights have been snatched and I want that you get statehood at the earliest,” Rahul added.

The Congress MP emphasised further that after the election, he guarantees that the first thing he will do is put pressure on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to restore statehood.

Lashing out at the BJP, Rahul Gandhi said that they only work for 2-3 billionaires.

“They have waived off Rs 16,000 crore for 25 people. But they don’t waive loans for the poor, farmers, labourers, women, or students. They implemented a wrong GST and demonetisation, which caused small businesses to shut down. As a result, today the youth of India, and particularly Jammu & Kashmir, cannot find employment,” he said.

Taking a jibe at Prime Minister Modi, the Leader of the Opposition said that Narendra Modi was once referred to as having a “56-inch chest.”

“He used to speak with pride and confidence, but now the INDIA bloc and Congress have changed Narendra Modi’s psychology. He is no longer the same as before. For the past 10 years, wherever Narendra Modi goes, he spreads hatred,” he added.

“Wherever the BJP had opened ‘Nafrat ka bazar’, we went there and opened ‘Mohabbat ki dukaan’. We will continue to do this,” Rahul said.

Jammu and Kashmir is voting for its 90-member assembly in three phases. The first phase of voting took place on September 18.

Notably, a voter turnout of 61.13 pc was registered in the first phase of polling in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls, which were held in 24 constituencies in seven districts on September 18.

Voting for the second and third phases in J-K will be held on September 25 and October 1, respectively. Votes will be counted on October 8. (ANI)

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Actor Deepika Padukone, who welcomed her first child, a baby girl, with husband Ranveer Singh on September 8, has started to share glimpses of her life as a new mother.

Following the joyful announcement of her daughter’s arrival, the actress has recently offered a lighthearted peek into her motherhood journey through social media.

On Monday, Deepika reshared an Instagram Reel that encapsulates the challenges of new parenthood in a humorous fashion.

The video features a woman navigating a chaotic morning routine, humorously portraying what if “adults ate like newborns”.

It begins with her waking up on a sofa, heading to the kitchen, and struggling to eat at the dining table, ultimately passing out right after her first bite.

Deepika accompanied the post with a GIF of a person peeking out from behind curtains, symbolizing her new phase of life.

Just days after her delivery, Deepika was discharged from the hospital, and she made her first public appearance alongside Ranveer Singh as they brought their newborn home.

The couple has been relatively private since the birth of their first child, but Deepika’s updated Instagram bio now reflects her new responsibilities: “Feed. Burp. Sleep. Repeat.”

This charming addition provides fans with a glimpse into their everyday family life.

In terms of her professional endeavours, Deepika Padukone was last seen in the film ‘Kalki 2898 AD.’

She and Ranveer Singh are set to reunite on screen in Rohit Shetty’s much-anticipated movie ‘Singham Again,’ which is slated for release during the Diwali festival. (ANI)

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Rhea Singha has been crowned Miss Universe India 2024, and she will now represent India at the global Miss Universe 2024 pageant.

The grand finale of Miss Universe India 2024 was held on Sunday in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

The event was filled with excitement, with Rhea emerging as the winner and taking home the prestigious title.

After her big win, Rhea couldn’t contain her happiness. Speaking to ANI with a bright smile, she shared, “Today I won the title of Miss Universe India 2024. I am so thankful. I have done so much work to get to this level where I can consider myself worthy enough for this crown. I am so inspired by the previous winners.”

Actress and Miss Universe India 2015, Urvashi Rautela, who served as a judge at the event, shared her thoughts and expressed hope that “India will win the Miss Universe crown again this year.”

“I feel what all the girls are feeling. The winners are mind-blowing. They will represent our country very well in Miss Universe, and I am hopeful that India will win the Miss Universe crown again this year. All the girls have been hard-working, dedicated, and extremely beautiful,” Rautela told media.

With this title, Rhea Singha is now preparing to represent India at the Miss Universe 2024 competition, which will take place later this year. (ANI)

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India has officially selected ‘Laapataa Ladies’ as its entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.

The film, directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, aims to spotlight significant social issues while representing Indian cinema on the global stage.

The announcement has been confirmed by Kiran Rao’s team.

‘Laapataa Ladies’ explores themes of gender equality and women’s empowerment in rural India. The film follows the story of two brides who are inadvertently switched during a train journey in 2001.

Starring Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Srivastava, and Nitanshi Goel in lead roles, the film combines a poignant narrative with a strong social message.

Recently, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ was showcased at a special event held at the Supreme Court of India, attended by judges, their families, and officials.

At that event, Rao expressed her gratitude for the Chief Justice’s initiative in screening the film, which she noted has helped reach a wider audience.

The film, which was released in March, also features performances by Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Geeta Aggarwal Sharma, contributing to a diverse cast that adds depth to the narrative.

The deadline for submissions for the 96th Oscars is November 14 this year. The shortlist for Best International Feature will be revealed on December 17, and nominations will be announced on January 17, 2025.

The Academy Awards is scheduled to be held on March 2, 2025. (ANI)

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