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Malayalam cinema has once again made its mark with the recent recognition of the album ‘Ival Avalo Atho Avalo,’ which has been honored with the prestigious Rabindra Ratna Puraskar for 2025. This accolade highlights the exceptional talent within the industry, particularly focusing on the contributions of its creators. The album's director, Ramachandran P, has emerged as a standout figure, receiving accolades not only for his directorial prowess but also for his skills as a lyricist and actor. His multifaceted talent has garnered him significant attention and respect in the cinematic community. In addition to his latest achievement, Ramachandran P has previously been awarded the Rashtra Seva Puraskar by the Bharat Seva Society, recognizing him as the best director and actor for his work in the Malayalam short film ‘Kadukkan.’ This film has proven to be a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to weave compelling narratives and deliver powerful performances. The recognition he has received underscores his dedication to the craft and his impact on the Malayalam film landscape. Moreover, the accolades for ‘Kadukkan’ do not end with Ramachandran P. Aswani S, another talented artist, has also been celebrated for her outstanding performance in the same short film, winning the Rashtra Seva Puraskar for best actress in 2025. This recognition not only highlights her exceptional acting skills but also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of the project, which has brought together remarkable talents in the industry. The success of both Ramachandran P and Aswani S serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers and actors, reinforcing the idea that dedication and creativity can lead to significant achievements in the world of cinema. At the helm of this celebrated album is director Ramachandran P, whose talents extend beyond directing. His dual roles as a lyricist and actor have made him a prominent figure in the cinematic landscape, drawing admiration for his versatility and creativity. Ramachandran P's ability to weave compelling stories while also contributing to the musical aspects of his projects has set him apart as a multi-talented creator. His efforts in 'Ival Avalo Atho Avalo' have not only earned him accolades but have also significantly enriched the cinematic tapestry of his home state. The recognition of the album and its creators highlights an important trend within Malayalam cinema, illustrating how the industry consistently nurtures and celebrates diverse talents. As audiences increasingly seek authentic narratives and rich storytelling, the creative endeavors of filmmakers like Ramachandran P are vital in maintaining the momentum of this artistic movement. This kind of recognition, particularly from prestigious awards, serves to inspire a new generation of artists and reinforces the belief that Malayalam cinema has much more to offer than meets the eye, paving the way for exciting developments in the years to come.

The Bombay High Court has granted actor Akshay Kumar urgent interim protection over his personality rights, restraining social-media platforms, e-commerce sites, and AI content creators from using his name, image, likeness and voice without authorization. Justice Arif S Doctor yesterday observed that the realistic nature of deepfake images and videos created with AI was deeply concerning, adding that such fabrications not only violated Mr Kumar’s personality and moral rights but also posed a grave threat to public order and the safety of his family.     Akshay Kumar filed the commercial IP suit seeking to restrain unauthorised exploitation of his personality across digital platforms. The suit invoked Article 21 of the Constitution and the Copyright Act of 1957 to assert his right to privacy, dignity and moral rights.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended greetings to citizens on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras. In a social media post, Mr. Shah prayed to Lord Dhanvantari for happiness, prosperity, and good fortune in everyone’s life.    BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda also conveyed his wishes, praying for prosperity, health, and well-being. He expressed hope that the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari would bring wealth, abundance, and joy to all.

Electronics and Information Technolgy Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that pace of country’s 5G rollout has amazed the world. Highlighting the rapid expansion of telecom network across the country, he said that 90 percent of the country is now covered by the 5G network.     Speaking at a World Summit organised in New Delhi, the Minister said, India now has the second-largest 5G network in the world, enabling connectivity even in remote and far-flung areas. On the menace of deepfakes, Mr Vaishnaw said that the government will soon bring regulations to address the issue.

Eyewitness, a Hindi short film directed by Pankaj Kavad and produced by Amit Pandey, has been officially selected for both the PanAsia Film Festival 2025 and the Indian Premier Film Festival 2025. This recognition highlights the film's compelling narrative and artistic merit, showcasing Kavad's ability to engage audiences through thought-provoking storytelling. The film stands out not only for its suspenseful plot but also for its poignant exploration of sensitive themes that resonate deeply within contemporary society. Pankaj Kavad, a versatile content writer and filmmaker based in Mumbai, has made significant contributions to both cinema and theatre. His portfolio includes a range of short films, such as Eyewitness, which is a suspense thriller, alongside dramatic works like Revati and Utpeedan. In the realm of theatre, he has penned Antim Dastak, a courtroom drama that underscores his talent for creating intense, dialogue-driven narratives. Kavad's artistic endeavors reflect a commitment to exploring stories that intertwine realism with emotional complexity, establishing him as a storyteller who captivates audiences with intricate themes and multifaceted characters. The inspiration for Eyewitness emerged from the harrowing R.G. Kar Medical College rape and murder case that occurred on August 9th. This tragic event left a profound impact on Kavad, prompting him to reflect on the painful reality that many victims of sexual violence may not fully comprehend the gravity of their situation in the moment it unfolds. Through the character of Raani, the film seeks to portray the abrupt transition from an ordinary day to a nightmarish experience, capturing the silence, confusion, and helplessness that often accompany such trauma. Kavad aims to shed light on the precarious nature of women's safety, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging these harsh realities in order to foster a more compassionate and aware society.

Karnataka’s own Chandrashekhar H has been conferred with the prestigious Rashtra Seva Puraskar 2025, a national-level recognition awarded by the Bharat Seva Society, in celebration of his exemplary contributions to the fields of Science and Technology. The award not only marks a significant personal achievement for Chandrashekhar but also highlights the remarkable impact of his work on India's technological landscape. A multifaceted individual, Chandrashekhar H is currently the Founder Director and CEO of eSpark Infotech Private Ltd., a Bangalore-based technology firm known for its innovation-driven approach to embedded systems and software solutions. Under his visionary leadership, eSpark Infotech has carved a niche for itself in India’s tech ecosystem, contributing cutting-edge solutions to critical sectors and nurturing a culture of engineering excellence. Before his entrepreneurial success, Chandrashekhar had a distinguished 15-year career in the Indian Navy, where he served in the elite Submarine Cadre. His tenure in the Navy was marked by high-level involvement in the design and maintenance of mission-critical embedded systems essential for naval defense operations. His contributions played a vital role in enhancing the operational readiness and capabilities of India’s submarine fleet. Chandrashekhar’s technical expertise was sharpened through specialized international training in Germany and the former USSR, where he mastered advanced simulation software used in modern naval systems. Upon returning to India, he was instrumental in adapting and deploying these high-end technologies for use in Indian Naval Submarines, directly improving the Navy’s strategic capabilities. Following a successful military career, Chandrashekhar took voluntary retirement to explore his passion for technology and contribute to the private sector. His transition from a decorated naval officer to a tech entrepreneur has been nothing short of inspiring. Through eSpark Infotech, he has continued to advance the field of embedded systems, providing innovative solutions to both public and private sector clients, and mentoring young engineers and developers along the way. The Rashtra Seva Puraskar, awarded annually by the Bharat Seva Society, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation's development in various fields. Chandrashekhar H’s recognition under the Science and Technology category is a testament to his lifelong dedication to service — both in uniform and in industry. Colleagues and industry peers have lauded the award as a well-deserved honor. “Chandrashekhar’s journey is a rare blend of patriotism, technical brilliance, and visionary leadership,” said a senior official from the Bharat Seva Society. “His work continues to inspire the next generation of innovators and technologists in India.” As he continues to lead eSpark Infotech into the future, Chandrashekhar H remains a beacon of dedication, innovation, and national service. The Rashtra Seva Puraskar 2025 stands as a proud recognition of a life devoted to advancing India’s scientific and technological frontiers.

Dr. G. J. Mehendale, a renowned artist hailing from Karnataka, India, has recently received the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025, an accolade presented by the Veyil Foundation. This honor recognizes his profound impact on the arts, particularly through his evocative portraits that pay tribute to the valiant freedom fighters of India. As the founder and president of the Freedom Fighters Research Center in Vagish Nagar, Kumarapatnam, Dr. Mehendale has devoted her life to safeguarding the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s independence. His artistic creations not only celebrate the courage of these individuals but also serve as essential educational resources, ensuring that their stories resonate with future generations. Through her art, Dr. Mehendale endeavors to illuminate the narratives of freedom fighters who endured unimaginable trials, including those who faced execution at the hands of British colonial authorities. By showcasing her powerful portraits in educational institutions, he aims to instill a sense of pride and awareness among young people regarding the sacrifices that paved the way for their freedom. His exhibitions are meticulously crafted to evoke a deep appreciation for the struggles faced by these heroes, ensuring that their contributions to the nation remain etched in collective memory. Each piece is a testament to the resilience and bravery of those who fought for liberty, serving as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom. Dr. G. J. Mehendale's primary mission is to convey the essence of sacrifice through his artistic expression, bridging the gap between past and present. By highlighting the lives and challenges of these freedom fighters, he aspires to inspire a new generation to grasp the significance of liberty and the importance of honoring those who fought for it. His unwavering commitment to this cause reflects a deep respect for history and a fervent desire to educate others about the sacrifices that have shaped the nation. Through her portraits, he not only pays homage to the memory of these courageous individuals but also fosters an ongoing dialogue about the relevance of freedom in today’s society, encouraging a thoughtful reflection on its value.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said, 258 battle-hardened left-wing extremists have abjured violence in the last two days. In a social media post, the Minister highlighted that 170 Naxalites have surrendered in Chhattisgarh today while 27 surrendered yesterday. Mr Shah also highlighted that 61 returned to the mainstream, in Maharashtra yesterday.    He added, since last year, after the BJP came to power in Chhattisgarh, more than two thousand Naxalites have surrendered, nearly 1800 arrested and more than four hundred fifty have been eliminated in the state.    The Minister lauded the decision of Naxals to renounce violence, reposing their trust in the Constitution of the country.    Calling it a landmark day in the battle against Naxalism, the Minister said, Abujmarh and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh that were once terror bases, have been declared as free from Naxal terror. Mr Shah further emphasised that those, who want to surrender, are welcome, and those who continue to wield the gun will meet the wrath of the Indian forces.    He added that Naxalism is breathing its last and the numbers mirror the government’s resolve to decimate Naxalism before the 31st of March of the next year. The Home Minister appealed to those who are still on the path of Naxalism to lay down their weapons and join the mainstream.

The External Affairs Ministry today said India is closely monitoring the situation between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Briefing the media in New Delhi this afternoon, Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said it is clear that Pakistan hosts terrorist organisations and sponsors terrorist activities. He said it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures.    The spokesperson said Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories, and India remains fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan.    Othe n upgrade of the Indian Mission in Kabul, Mr Jaiswal said India’s Technical Mission has been operational in Kabul since June 2022. He informed that its transition to an Embassy will happen in the next few days.    Replying to a query on the latest sanctions announced by the UK on Nayara, Mr Jaiswal stressed that the UK does not subscribe to any unilateral sanctions. He said India considers the provision of energy security a responsibility of paramount importance to meet the basic needs of its citizens.    He further stated that Indian companies source energy supplies from around the world while taking overall market conditions into account. He stressed that there should be no double standards, especially when it comes to energy trade.    On whether there was a conversation between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on oil imports, the spokesperson said he is not aware of any conversation between the two leaders yesterday.

In Karnataka, the Social and Educational survey to identify the Backwards Classes has finally begun, despite the consistent and conspiratorial opposition from the BJP and JD(S), as well as the dominant castes within the Congress. The BJP, which has openly taken leadership of this crusade against the survey, is putting forward several deceptive arguments to justify its opposition, which is in fact aimed at retaining the status quo of hegemony of dominant castes.  The primary argument of the camp is that the government is actually conducting a census in the guise of a survey, for which it has no constitutional mandate, since a census is part of the Union list (entry 69, of List 1 in the Seventh Schedule). The underlying argument is that the Congress government wants to divide the dominant and consolidated castes into sub castes, thereby breaking the dominant castes' numerical and political strength.  This is nothing but part of the Sangh Parivar’s long-term agenda: politically, to take away all residual powers of the states and concentrate them with the Union as part of its strategy to convert federal India into a Unitary State; socially, to perpetuate the brahminical social order unchallenged.

Bengaluru’s power couple , Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy and his wife, Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty, have declined to participate in the Karnataka government’s ongoing Social and Educational (caste) Survey. Their refusal to participate is not against the law since the Karnataka High Court made it clear that it was voluntary. However, their refusal shows a disregard for social justice.  The couple submitted a self-declaration form dated October 10, saying that they do not belong to any backward class. “Hence, participating in this survey will not be of any help to the government. Therefore, we decline to participate,” the declaration read.  Measuring the relative backwardness of various communities would be impossible without comprehensive social, educational and economic data about all communities.  Like Narayana and Sudha Murty, if all people who belong to forward communities decline to participate in the survey, the entire exercise—which is a constitutional mandate on states—risks being undermined.  The legal position The statewide Social and Educational Survey, being carried out by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission since September 22, aims to measure social backwardness.  Section 9(2) of the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission Act mandates the Commission to conduct a survey on the social and educational status of all citizens of the state to identify groups that are backward and make necessary recommendations to the state government. Under Section 11, the commission must conduct a survey every 10 years to revise the lists of backward communities.   The Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission Act itself was a product of the Indra Sawhney judgement of the Supreme Court, which directed that permanent backward classes commissions be set up to look into reservations. Previous commissions that provided for backward classes reservations in Karnataka, and even the Mandal Commission set up by the Union government, were ad hoc commissions set up under the Commissions of Inquiry Act.  Although the SC placed a legal obligation on backward classes commissions to survey all citizens of a state, the methodology of the survey was left to the discretion of the commission, and there is no provision in law making participation mandatory, as it is for the decadal census conducted by the Union government.  Dominant caste groups have consistently opposed the survey, and petitioners representing these interests challenged the survey on various grounds in the Karnataka High Court, which issued an interim order.

Dr. Madhurjyya Mondit Baruah, a distinguished personality from Assam, India, has recently received the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 from the Veyil Foundation. This award recognizes his remarkable contributions to literature and education, emphasizing his role as a driving force for intellectual advancement and cultural development. His dedication to enhancing the understanding of Assamese literature and promoting educational excellence has established him as a respected figure in academic circles. Currently serving as the Registrar of Auniati University in Kaliapani, Teok, Jorhat, Assam, Dr. Baruah boasts a career that spans over two decades, marked by significant achievements in higher education administration, research, and literary endeavors. He has played a crucial role in shaping academic policies and curriculum at his institution while mentoring aspiring scholars and writers. As a prolific author, his works resonate with both academic and general audiences, further extending his influence in the literary community. In addition to his responsibilities at Auniati University, Dr. Baruah is a Visiting Professor at Mahatma Gandhi University in Meghalaya, where he imparts his knowledge to students and faculty. His active participation in the Assamese Advisory Board of Sahitya Akademi for the term 2023–2027 and the Steering Committee of Asom Sahitya Sabha for 2025–2027 underscores his commitment to advancing Assamese literature and culture. Through these roles, he plays a vital part in preserving and promoting the literary heritage of Assam, ensuring that the voices of its writers are recognized and celebrated on larger platforms.