Month: July 2025

The makers of the actor Rajkummar Rao’s upcoming political drama film ‘Maalik’ have finally released its trailer on Tuesday. Directed by Pulkit, the film also stars Bengali cinema star Prosenjit Chatterjee in the lead role.

In Maalik, Rajkummar Rao plays a ruthless gangster who appears to stop at nothing to fulfil his ambition of political power and fame. With his rugged look and high-octane action moves, Rajkummar portrays a raw and intense character, unlike his recent roles in comedy movies such as ‘Stree’, ‘Stree 2’, and ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf.’

Also starring Manushi Chhillar in a lead role, along with Saurabh Shukla and Saurabh Sachdeva in pivotal parts, Maalik is set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s Allahabad. It’s a hard-hitting tale of ambition, power, and survival, that explores the price of rising in a world ruled by guns, greed, and loyalty.

In the trailer, Rajkummar is seen firing bullets at the front entrance of the house. Guns seem to be the actor’s third hand in the movie, as he appears to kill countless goons in the trailer.

Rajkummar’s political ambitions face a strong opposition from a local strongman played brilliantly by Saurabh Shukla. Prosenjit Chatterjee plays the role of a cop who is tasked with finishing ‘Maalik’.

The movie is produced by Kumar Taurani & Jay Shewakramani under the banner of Tips Films and Northern Lights Films.

Rajkummar Rao shared the trailer of the film on his Instagram handle. While sharing the clip, the actor highlighted one of his dialogues in the caption section of his post.

He wrote, “Janam se nahin Qismat se banega, majboor baap ka mazboot beta, Maalik.”

Talking about his character, Rajkummar Rao says, “This is the first time I’m doing such a hard-hitting role. It really pushed me as an actor and let me explore a darker, more intense side. Playing a layered, ruthless gangster was both thrilling and challenging, and that’s what made it so exciting. I can’t wait for the audience to experience the gritty, gripping world we’ve created,” as quoted in a press note shared by the makers of ‘Maalik’.

Manushi Chhillar also shared, “Maalik is really special to me. I got to portray a character I’ve never explored before, and the film allowed me to step into a world that’s gritty, raw and intense. It’s been such a thrilling journey, and I truly hope the audience connects with it,” as quoted in a press note.

The film is slated to release in cinemas on July 11, 2025. (ANI)

The father of one of the accused in the alleged gangrape case at a law college in Kolkata has expressed faith in the judiciary, saying that the court will decide the further course of action.

“The matter is subjudice and investigation is underway. I have been saying from the beginning that I have faith in the judiciary. The court will decide the further course of action,” the man told ANI on Tuesday.

He added that he trusts the state government, police, and administration, and is confident that the truth will come out during the investigation. Responding to claims that his son had previously registered cases against him, the man said, “I trust the state government, police and the administration. People are saying there were cases already registered against my son, so why was he not arrested back then? I am sure the truth will come out…”

On June 25, a female student was allegedly gangraped inside the South Calcutta Law College in Kasba area in the capital city of West Bengal.

Meanwhile, BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya has strongly criticised the Mamata Banerjee-led state government. “There is a total absence of law and order. There is total anarchy and a breakdown of constitutional machinery. What more can we expect from politicised administration?” Bhattacharya said.

He attributed the State’s deteriorating law and order situation to the politicisation of the administration and also targeted the state government for allegedly being intolerant to criticism. “All anti-social elements think it is their government. All college campuses and hostels are unsafe. When the state government is not ready to hear criticism, what can be done? If there is any intolerant government, it is the TMC government,” Bhattacharya alleged.

Bhattacharya further accused the police of attempting to cover up evidence. “The police’s work is to wipe away the evidence. No power in the world can bring TMC back to power for the fourth time,” the BJP leader said.

Earlier, Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma urged everyone, including mediapersons, to refrain from revealing the identity of the survivor of the alleged gangrape case in social media or anywhere else.

Manoj Kumar Verma said, “The incident that took place at South Calcutta Law College is being investigated. This is a very sensitive case, and I do not want to reveal the details of the investigation at the moment. In less than 12 hours, three people were arrested. Later, another person was also arrested. We are collecting all the evidence. The identity of the victim is a very sensitive issue, and I request that everyone refrain from revealing the identity of the victim on social media or anywhere else. I am making this request on behalf of the Kolkata Police. All necessary actions are being taken by police, and I assure that police will do everything possible.”

A four-member BJP fact-finding committee also visited Kolkata to assess the situation. The delegation includes former Union Ministers Satpal Singh and Meenakshi Lekhi, Lok Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb, and Rajya Sabha MP Manan Kumar Mishra.

The main accused in the case, Manojit Mishra, has been taken into custody along with three others. The SIT continues to probe the matter. (ANI)

Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, along with his wife Dr Priti Adani and son Karan Adani, visited the Adani-ISKCON kitchens set up during the Jagannath Puri Ratha Yatra and the Kumbh Mela, where they joined volunteers in kitchen service.

According to an official release from the ISKCON, the family inspected the arrangements of the kitchens that serve lakhs of pilgrims daily with sanctified vegetarian meals (prasadam).

As per the release, during his visit, volunteers affectionately requested Adani to briefly join them in the cooking service. Although his security team initially advised against it, he agreed and took part by rolling puris and stirring sabji.

His wife, Priti Adani, also participated in the seva. In a particular moment, when she was struggling to hold a large khamacha (utensil), Karan Adani immediately stepped forward to support her.

This act of humility was witnessed by devotees and volunteers and stood as a spontaneous, sincere gesture of appreciation for grassroots service, the release stated.

“Gautam Adani’s willingness to step into the kitchen, even briefly, was a powerful message to all of us,” said by ISKCON management. “It reminded us that true greatness lies in service, not position.”

“ISKCON believes that the Adani family’s active participation in such cultural and devotional service sets a meaningful example. Their grounded, value-based leadership will surely inspire many other business leaders to engage in and support spiritual and cultural heritage in a more personal and heartfelt manner,” the release stated. (ANI)

Uttar Pradesh’s law and order landscape has transformed under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s zero-tolerance policy. Moving beyond arrests, the state police–working under his direct supervision–are now focused on securing swift convictions through fast-track prosecution. Launched on July 1, 2023, Operation Conviction has proven to be a game-changer in this regard, leading to the conviction of 97,158 criminals between July 2023 and mid-June 2025, the Chief Minister’s office said in a press release.

ADG Prosecution Deepesh Juneja informed that out of 1,14,029 identified cases, 74,388 cases were disposed of, and convictions were secured in 69,422 cases–underscoring the administration’s commitment to turning action into results. Under the campaign, 68 criminals were sentenced to death, 8,172 received life imprisonment, 1,453 were sentenced to over 20 years, and 87,465 were given up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

This data demonstrates the government’s commitment to delivering swift and decisive justice, particularly in cases involving serious crimes.

Targeting organised crime, 395 accused were convicted in 272 cases involving the top 10 notorious criminals. In a major success against the mafia, 29 out of 69 identified mafias were convicted, reaffirming that the crackdown is not limited to petty offenders. The campaign has also delivered results in cases of crimes against children. Under the POCSO Act, 17 accused were sentenced to death, including 3 in a single month, and 619 received life imprisonment. Of the 68 total death penalties, 17 were under POCSO, 48 for heinous crimes, and three under the ACL Act.

On average, 143 identified cases were resolved, and 187 criminals were convicted each working day. This is a strong testament to the Yogi government’s resolve to make Uttar Pradesh a safer state.

Earlier, CM Yogi Adityanath on June 28 held a Janta Darshan at the Gorakhnath Temple, where he met people and listened to their grievances. (ANI)

Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra found himself in a heartwarming encounter with “a kind-hearted uncle” while strolling down a quiet street in Bengaluru. The unexpected meeting turned into a memorable conversation, showcasing Neeraj’s approachable nature and the admiration he garners from fans of all ages.

Neeraj Chopra Classic’s official Instagram handle posted a heartwarming reel,

“Sometimes, the best moments aren’t planned. A quiet street in Bengaluru. A kind-hearted uncle. And a javelin legend who never forgets where he comes from”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLhl-wmy04C/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

As they chatted, the man expressed his deep respect and admiration for Neeraj, saying, “We all respect and admire you. You have brought glory to the whole country.”

The sincerity in his words resonated with Neeraj, who always values the support of his fans.

The man then asked, “Can I take a picture?” capturing a moment that would surely be cherished by both.

Their conversation was filled with warmth and encouragement, with the man wishing Neeraj all the best for his future endeavors.

“Keep doing well,” he added, leaving Neeraj with a smile and a reminder of the impact he has on people’s lives.

Sometimes, the best moments aren’t planned, and this encounter was a beautiful testament to the connection between a champion and his supporters.

The upcoming NC Classic is set to take place on July 5, at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. Initially the tournament was scheduled for May 24, however the event was deferred, due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.

This landmark event, India’s first-ever International Javelin competition, is spearheaded by India’s most decorated Olympian, Neeraj, in collaboration with JSW Sports and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).

As a World Athletics-sanctioned Gold event, the Neeraj Chopra Classic promises to elevate India’s status on the global athletics map. It will feature a stellar line-up of elite javelin throwers, making it a significant event for India. With a seating capacity exceeding 12,000, this competition is set to deliver an exhilarating display of athletic talent and skill.

While Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj will headline the meet named in his honour, the Indian athlete will face stiff competition from some of the sport’s biggest names. The organisers of the event confirmed a 12-member entry list for the inaugural NC Classic.

The roster remains nearly identical to the original entry list released prior to the postponement, with just one change – Poland’s Martin Konecny has replaced Japan’s Genki Dean. Anderson Peters, Thomas Rohler, and Julius Yego – the 2015 world champion and Rio 2016 silver medallist – will participate as planned initially.

The line-up also includes Pan American Games champion Curtis Thompson of the USA, Brazil’s Luiz Mauricio da Silva and Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage. Meanwhile, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav and Sahil Silwal will represent the local challenge alongside Neeraj. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday shared a detailed reflection on the completion of 10 years of the ‘Digital India’ initiative, a mission to “democratise access, build inclusive digital infrastructure, and opportunities for all.”

In a post on the social media platform LinkedIn, the Prime Minister shared his blog titled “A Decade of Digital India” where he stressed that while previous decades were marked by scepticism about Indians’ ability to use technology, his government changed that approach by trusting the citizens’ capabilities.

He emphasised that technology was used not to widen disparities but to bridge the gap between the privileged and the marginalised.

The article reads, “Ten years ago, we embarked on a bold journey into uncharted territory with great conviction. While decades were spent doubting the ability of Indians to use technology, we changed this approach and trusted the ability of Indians to use technology. While decades were spent thinking that the use of technology would deepen the gap between the haves and the have-nots, we changed this mindset and used technology to eliminate the gap between the haves and the have-nots.”

“When the intent is right, innovation empowers the less empowered. When the approach is inclusive, technology brings change in the lives of those on the margins. This belief laid the foundation for Digital India: a mission to democratise access, build an inclusive digital infrastructure, and provide opportunities for all,” it added.

Highlighting the progress made since 2014, Prime Minister Modi noted that internet connections in the country have surged from 25 crores to over 97 crores, and over 42 lakh kilometres of Optical Fibre Cable have been laid to provide internet connection to the remotest villages.

He wrote, “In 2014, internet penetration was limited, digital literacy was low, and online access to government services was scarce. Many doubted whether a country as vast and diverse as India could truly go digital. Today, that question has been answered not just in data and dashboards, but in the lives of 140 crore Indians. From how we govern, to how we learn, transact, and build, Digital India is everywhere.”

“In 2014, India had around 25 crore internet connections. Today, that number has grown to over 97 crores. Over 42 lakh kilometres of Optical Fibre Cable, equivalent to 11 times the distance between Earth and the Moon, now connects even the most remote villages. India’s 5G rollout is among the fastest in the world, with 4.81 lakh base stations installed in just two years. High-speed internet now reaches urban hubs and forward military posts alike, including Galwan, Siachen, and Ladakh,” PM Modi wrote.

The Prime Minister credited the India Stack–India’s digital backbone–for powering platforms like UPI, which handles 100+ billion transactions every year.

“India Stack, which is our digital backbone, has enabled platforms like UPI, which now handles 100+ billion transactions a year. Around half of all real-time digital transactions happen in India. Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), over ₹44 lakh crore has been transferred directly to citizens, cutting out middlemen and saving ₹3.48 lakh crore in leakages. Schemes like SVAMITVA have issued 2.4 crore+ property cards and mapped 6.47 lakh villages, ending years of land-related uncertainty,” he said.

Saying that India’s digital economy is empowering MSMEs and small entrepreneurs, Prime Minister Modi shared how ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) and GeM (Government E-Marketplace) is providing opportunities to small businesses to sell their goods and services in the marketplace.

The PM stated, “India’s digital economy is empowering MSMEs and small entrepreneurs like never before. ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) is a revolutionary platform which opens a new window of opportunities by providing a seamless connection with a huge market of buyers and sellers.”

“GeM (Government E-Marketplace) enables the common man to sell goods and services to all arms of the government. This not only empowers the common man with a huge market but also saves money for the Government,” he noted.

Citing an example, the Prime Minister said, “Imagine this: You apply for a Mudra loan online. Your creditworthiness is assessed through an account aggregator framework. You get your loan and start your venture. You register on GeM, supply to schools and hospitals, and then scale up via ONDC.”

He further stated, “ONDC recently crossed 200 million transactions, with the last 100 million in just six months. From Banarasi weavers to bamboo artisans in Nagaland, sellers are now reaching customers nationwide, without middlemen or digital monopolies. GeM has also crossed ₹1 lakh crore GMV in 50 days, with 22 lakh sellers, including 1.8 lakh+ women-led MSMEs, who have fulfilled orders worth ₹46,000 crore.”

Praising India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), PM Modi highlighted, “India’s DPI from Aadhaar, CoWIN, DigiLocker, and FASTag to PM-WANI and One Nation One Subscription is now studied and adopted globally.”

He noted, “CoWIN enabled the world’s largest vaccination drive, issuing 220 crore QR-verifiable certificates. DigiLocker, with 54 crore users, hosts 775 crore+ documents securely and seamlessly. Through our G20 Presidency, India launched the Global DPI Repository and a $25 million Social Impact Fund, helping nations across Africa and South Asia adopt inclusive digital ecosystems.”

Calling India a leading startup hub, he said the country now ranks among the top three global startup ecosystems with more than 1.8 lakh startups. He also highlighted India’s progress in artificial intelligence, saying that India has ‘championed’ humanity-first AI.

The article reads, “India now ranks among the top 3 startup ecosystems in the world, with over 1.8 lakh startups. But this is more than a startup movement; it is a tech renaissance. India is doing extremely well when it comes to AI skill penetration and AI talent concentration among our youth.”

“Through the $1.2 billion India AI Mission, India has enabled access to 34,000 GPUs at globally unmatched prices at less than $1/GPU hour, making India not just the most affordable internet economy, but also the most affordable compute destination. India has championed humanity-first AI. The New Delhi Declaration on AI promotes innovation with responsibility. We are establishing AI Centres of Excellence across the country,” it further reads.

Prime Minister Modi envisioned that the coming decade would take India from ‘digital governance’ to ‘global digital leadership’.

The Prime Minister asserted, “The next decade will be even more transformative. We are moving from digital governance to global digital leadership, from India-first to India-for-the-world. Digital India has not remained a mere government program; it has become a people’s movement. It is central to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and to making India a trusted innovation partner to the world.”

“To all innovators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers: the world is looking at India for the next digital breakthrough. Let us build what empowers. Let us solve what truly matters. Let us lead with technology that unites, includes, and uplifts,” he added. (ANI)

Hollywood actor Richard Gere on Tuesday joined in celebrations in Dharamshala and the surrounding regions of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh ahead of the 90th birthday of 14th Dalai Lama

While the Dalai Lama’s birthday falls on July 6 as per the Gregorian calendar, festivities began on June 30 in accordance with the Tibetan calendar. The event has been attracting spiritual leaders, dignitaries, and well-wishers who have been arriving from different parts of the world.

Gere, is among the prominent people who have congregated in Dharamshala for the occasion that is attracting global spiritual leaders, dignitiaries and well wishers.

Speaking to ANI during the event at Nechung Monastery, Gere remarked, “We’re here in Dharamshala to celebrate His Holiness’s 90th birthday, his good health, his strength and compassion. Nechung is one of my oldest friends… this monastery is very important to me and my son.

“He’s been to my home in the US. He’s also very close to my son, and it’s always a delight being here. I’ve seen the pleasure of being here many times, so I feel like I have a connection with Nechung now. It’s always a delight being here,” Gere said.

In a significant ritual held at the Nechung Monastery, the Nechung Oracle, regarded as one of the protector deities of the Tibetan community, entered into a trance state to bless the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and its leaders. CTA President Penpa Tsering, ministers, parliamentarians, and many Tibetan devotees were present for the event.

Tsering explained the relevance of the ceremony, “This is the invocation of the Nechung Oracle. Nechung, along with Palden Lhamo, is an official protective deity of the Tibetan administration. We seek guidance from the oracle during periods of difficulty and uncertainty.”

On June 30 celebration at Tsuglagkhang, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama made a brief public appearance and reaffirmed his dedication to peace, compassion, and service to the Tibetan people and the broader global community.

The celebrations has drawn numerous interfaith leaders, underlining the Dalai Lama’s influence beyond Buddhism.

Swami Chidanand Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan Ashram said, “Dalai Lama ji is a blessing to the world. His message is clear: peace over conflict. We are here to celebrate his 90 years of love and healing.”

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati emphasised the Dalai Lama’s example of compassion in the face of adversity. “He has taught us that even amidst hurt, one can still choose love, forgiveness, and truth.”

Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni echoed the message of non-violence and dialogue, “Religion is meant to connect, not divide. On this occasion, we reiterate that war solves nothing, dialogue and understanding are the paths forward.”

From July 2 to 4, Dharamshala will host a three-day international Buddhist conference, bringing together senior monks and scholars from various global traditions.

The event will culminate in a major address by the Dalai Lama, during which he is expected to speak on the future of the Tibetan reincarnation tradition, a topic of considerable interest within the global Tibetan and Buddhist communities.

Additionally, the International Buddhist Confederation will host a special commemorative event on July 13 in New Delhi. (ANI)

On National Doctor’s Day, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda extended greetings to all doctors on the occasion for their ‘selfless service to humanity’ and said that their “round-the-clock” dedication brings hope and “saves countless lives” every single day.

On National Doctor’s Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all doctors for their selfless service to humanity. Their round-the-clock dedication brings hope and saves countless lives every single day. In every health emergency, you have stood tall at the frontlines, driven by… pic.twitter.com/fm8FV8qtQM

— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) July 1, 2025

In a post on X, Nadda said, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all doctors for their ‘selfless service to humanity”

“Their round-the-clock dedication brings hope and saves countless lives every single day. In every health emergency, you have stood tall at the frontlines, driven by compassion and an unshakable sense of duty. Your care, courage and sacrifice make you the true heroes of our society”

“On this occasion, I also express my gratitude not just to doctors, but to all healthcare workers whose relentless efforts are paving the way towards a Swasth Bharat,” Nadda added in his post.

India observes National Doctors’ Day on July 1 every year to honour the selfless contributions that doctors and medical professionals make to the lives of people.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended warm greetings to the medical fraternity.

Warm birthday greetings to Shri @MVenkaiahNaidu Ji. Rising from the grassroots to the office of the Vice President, your journey serving the nation and voicing the marginalised is an inspiration for young leaders. Praying to God for your continued good health and long life.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) July 1, 2025

“They are the forces of humanity who salvage lives and shield our well-being through their dedication. Salute to all the doctors for their tireless services. May this day deepen their devotion to the vital role they play,” Shah said in a post on X.

Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said that the nation can “never forget” the contribution of medical professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I extend my greetings to all doctors on this day. We can never forget the contribution of doctors during the COVID pandemic. Happy Doctors’ Day,” Sawant said while speaking to reporters. (ANI)