The Indian Panorama

Month: March 2024

  • Weekly Horoscope- March 25 to March 31, 2024

    Weekly Horoscope- March 25 to March 31, 2024

    Aries 

    Ganesha says that the stars of the people of Aries will be on high this week. There may be long or short-distance travel in connection with career business at the beginning of the week. Those who are trying for their career or studies abroad can get to hear some good news. Money invested in any scheme or business in the past will become a big reason for profit. However, they should avoid making risky investments and if they do, they must take the advice of their well-wishers once. In the second half of the week, people who are preparing for the exam competition can get to hear some good news. The success of the child will become a big reason for your respect and there will be an atmosphere of happiness in the house. There will be intensity in the love relationship and mutual trust will increase. Married life will remain happy. There will be many opportunities to spend happy moments with your spouse and family. Health will be normal. 

    Taurus 

    Ganesha says that the beginning of the week will prove to be auspicious for those people associated with Taurus who were wandering for livelihood for a long time. During this, they will achieve the desired success in their careers and businesses. This time will prove auspicious for those doing goal-oriented work. They may get praise and a bigger position from their boss for better work. People associated with politics may also have their wishes fulfilled and their respect and influence in society will increase. In the second half of the week, some domestic problems may cause you concern, but you will eventually be able to find solutions to them with your intelligence and discretion. In this work, you will have the full help and support of a senior member of the house. Love relations will be normal. Married life will remain happy. Better coordination will be seen with the spouse. Be careful of seasonal diseases in the second half of the week. 

    Gemini 

    Ganesha says that luck will be seen knocking at the doors of Gemini people this week. At the beginning of the week itself, you will get new employment opportunities. However, during this time you will be in a state of confusion regarding which step to take and what decision to take. They may get big offers from other institutions, but while accepting them, it would be appropriate to brainstorm and clarify work-related information and salary, etc., otherwise, you may have to face problems later. If you have been facing a recession in business for some time, then this week will be a relief for you. You will get the desired profit in business and opportunities to increase it. In the middle of the week, you will need to pay some attention to your health because during this time you may become a victim of seasonal illness, or any old disease may re-emerge. Avoid ignoring the feelings of your love partner in a love relationship, otherwise, there may be a rift. You will get full support and assistance from your spouse in married life. 

    Cancer 

    Ganesha says that this week will prove to be mixed for the Cancerians. This week, you will need to avoid both laziness and pride, otherwise, your ready-made work may get spoiled. At the beginning of the week, a dispute with a dear person will be a major cause of your concern. In such a situation, it will be better for you to leave your ego and clear the misconceptions. While resolving disputes related to family or ancestral property, resort to negotiation rather than dispute. Financially, this time will prove to be auspicious for you. Obstacles related to business will be removed and profit will be received. There will be intensity in love relationships, and you will get an opportunity to spend quality time with your love partner. You may get a big surprise gift from your life partner in the second half of the week. 

    Leo 

    Ganesha says that this week can be a little volatile for the people of Leo. During this, disputes related to land and buildings can become a major cause of your concern. Due to getting less support from relatives than expected, the mind will remain upset. The tendency to postpone work can become a major cause of your problems. There is a possibility of injury. Health-related problems will also be seen adding to your problems. However, during this time a dear person like a love partner or life partner will be seen to be able to bear your sorrows and problems. If you want your love relationship to be strong and not to break, then you should avoid ignoring the compulsions and feelings of the love partner. 

    Virgo 

    Ganesha says that the stars of luck for Virgo zodiac people seem to be rising. At the beginning of the week, you can get benefits and respect for any big decision or work done in the past. Due to an increase in enthusiasm and bravery, you will be able to complete the work which has been pending for a long time. There will be profit from the powerful government. In the second part of the week, the mind will be engaged in religious-social activities. You will get an opportunity to do great work by associating with an organization or a special person, which will increase your respect in society. A plan will be made for auspicious work at home. If you were thinking of proposing to someone, then things will happen. Your female friend will prove to be very helpful in this work. At the same time, love and harmony will increase among people who are already in a love relationship. Married life will remain happy. To spend time happily with your spouse, you can go on long or short-distance travel. Health will be normal.

    Libra 

    Ganesha says that if the people of the Libra zodiac manage to manage their time and energy this week, then they will get more auspicious results than they expected. Since luck is with you at this time, you will get full support from all family members at home and seniors and juniors at work. You will get a chance to work on new projects. There will be desired profit in business. The mind will remain cheerful due to desired progress in long pending cases. Employed people can get better opportunities to move forward. A female friend will prove very helpful in this task. People engaged in the preparation of examination competitions will get good news. In the second half of the week, a family member can give a big surprise. Manglik’s work can be completed at home. If you have been thinking of buying a dear thing for a long time, then you can buy it or you can get it as a gift from someone. There will be strength in a love relationship and closeness with a love partner will increase. 

    Scorpio 

    Ganesha says that the people of the Scorpio zodiac will have to stop worrying and start thinking this week. At the beginning of the week, some problems will increase your anxiety, while help from close friends will be a big reason for relaxation. If there is any family dispute related to land-building, then it would be better to settle it outside the court-court, otherwise, you may have to go around for a long time. If you are doing business in partnership with someone, do not make the mistake of leaving it completely in the hands of your partner. It would be appropriate to move forward, especially after settling money-related matters. During this, be very careful with those people who are often trying to create a rift in your love relationship. There can be estrangement with your spouse about something. Ignoring a health-related matter can force you to visit the hospital. 

    Sagittarius 

    Ganesha says that this week is lucky and successful for the people of Sagittarius. This is the time to leave the fun and take advantage of the big opportunities that have come your way. If you get any big responsibility in the field, then try to fulfill it in a better way. Time is on your side; you will get support from both seniors and juniors. People will not only listen to what you say but will also not get tired of praising them. Decisions taken earlier regarding business will become a major reason for profit. The journeys made for career business will prove to be fruitful. With the help of people associated with power and government, you can also get big benefits. You can get the fortune of being associated with a big and profitable scheme. Love relations will be intense. Trust and closeness with the love partner will increase. Your family may accept your love relationship and agree to your marriage. The life of married people will be happy. Any good news related to your spouse will be a great reason for happiness in the family. People preparing for examination competitions can also get good news. Health will be normal. 

    Capricorn 

    Ganesha says that this week will be moderately fruitful for Capricorn people. At the beginning of the week, the mind will be a little upset if the planned work is not completed on time. Obstacles in work and bitterness in relationships will be a major cause of your concern. During this, you should try to avoid domestic troubles. Your opponents may misrepresent what you say to others. Due to the lack of cooperation between seniors and juniors in the workplace, one may have to face problems. During this time, your opponents can also remain active, in such a situation there will be a need to proceed with extreme caution. Stay away from speculation, shares, etc. during this time. Take a step forward in the direction of the love affair and avoid showing it, otherwise, you may have to face humiliation or humiliation. 

    Aquarius 

    Ganesha says that for the people of Aquarius, this week will sometimes be seen with happiness and sometimes with sorrow. If you have been waiting for a long time to get a position or important responsibility, then your wish may be fulfilled at the beginning of this week. will stick with you because your opponents will try to confuse or mislead you. Then they will try to put obstacles in your way. While this week you will get opportunities for progress in your career and business, your health will hinder the opportunities that come your way. In such a situation, take special care of your routine and health, otherwise, you may have to go to the hospital. Be especially aware of seasonal diseases. Compared to the first half of the week, the second half can be a little relief, during this time with the help of a female friend, the misunderstandings in the love affair will be removed and the relationship with the love partner will once again be seen to be back on track. Staying with your spouse in difficult times will make it easier to resolve difficulties. 

    Pisces 

    Ganesha says that this week is going to be very lucky for the people of Pisces. At the beginning of the week, any religious or auspicious program can be held at home. During thisperiod, youwill be happy to meet a dear person after a long time. Disputes related to land / building will be resolved with the help of an influential person. If any matter related to power or government has been stuck for a long time, then you will get success in it this week. The government’s decision will go in your favor. Additional sources of income will be created. You will get the desired profit in business and opportunities to further it. Students engaged in the preparation for examination and competitions can get much-awaited success. This week your love train will be seen filling the tracks. Your better tuning will be seen with the love partner, and you will have a pleasant time with him. Married life will remain happy. Achievement related to the child side will be a big reason for your happiness. Health will be normal. 

  • Miami open: Murray has last laugh vs Berrettini, again

    Miami open: Murray has last laugh vs Berrettini, again

    Andy Murray won another lengthy match with Matteo Berrettini, who appeared weary and leaned on his racquet to keep his balance during Murray’s 4-6 6-3 6-4 victory at the Miami Open. Playing his first match on the ATP Tour this season, Berrettini was serving with Murray leading 5-2 in the second set when he seemed to become dizzy, resting his racquet on the court to hold himself up. He was visited by a medical attendant, who checked his blood pressure before play continued.
    Berrettini left the court after dropping that set but was able to finish the match, which lasted 2 hours and 49 minutes. It was a rematch of Murray’s 6-3 6-3 4-6 6-7(7) 7-6 (10-6) victory that lasted nearly five hours in the first round of the 2023 Australian Open.
    “It was obviously a great win for me,” Murray said. “Started off a little bit slow but then I did think I played pretty well across then end of the first set through to the end of the match.”
    Naomi Osaka, a two-time US Open champion, beat Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-3 6-4 in her return to Miami. The runner-up to Iga Swiatek in her last appearance in 2022 advanced to face No. 15 seed Elina Svitolina in the second round. Elsewhere, Sloane Stephens celebrated her 31st birthday by beating Angelique Kerber 6-2 6-3. Donna Vekic beat Karolina Pliskova 6-4 2-6 6-2; and Americans Danielle Collins and Shelby Rogers advanced with three-set victories.
    Heartbroken Aryna asks for privacy
    Aryna Sabalenka said her “heart is broken” by the death of Konstantin Koltsov, asking for privacy for herself and the family of the former Belarusian hockey player she had dated. Koltsov died Monday, days before the second-ranked Sabalenka was set to begin play in the Miami Open. “Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” Sabalenka said in a statement.
    Source: AP

  • CSK, Mumbai get new captains as Pant returns after over a year

    CSK, Mumbai get new captains as Pant returns after over a year

    NEW DELHI (TIP)- The never-ending speculation surrounding Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s retirement, Virat Kohli’s 16-year drought, the second chance that life has offered Rishabh Pant and Rohit Sharma’s World Cup agony will make for intriguing sub-plots in the Indian Premier League (IPL) beginning on March 22. Known to do the unexpected, Dhoni stepped down as Chennai Super Kings’ captain on the eve of the IPL opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, handing over the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad, a man he mentored for the leadership role. “We have been working hard to prepare leaders. We have been slow on life after MS Dhoni. But trusting the youngsters has paid off well for us. I have already had a word with the youngsters like Rutu about leadership and captaincy. It is a great opportunity for him to lead the team,” CSK coach Stephen Fleming said.
    Delhi Capitals’ Pant, back from the brink after a life-threatening accident, will be desperate to show the world that he can still hit those one-handed sixes with elan.
    Rohit will be the last person to show his scars hidden behind his typical Mumbaikar nonchalance as he gets down to enjoying his evening dates at the Wankhede albeit without the captain’s title. The partisan crowd would, nonetheless, look forward to his trademark pull shots.
    For other captains, they need to win the on-field games but Hardik Pandya needs to win the dressing room too. There will be seniors with bruised egos, knowing that a shot at leadership has bypassed them. They could well be difficult to handle.
    As for Kohli, he would be in pursuit of that elusive jewel in his crown. By his own admission, he has been longing for a big title and his own passionate approach to the game would be a key factor in deciding whether the RCB men manage to emulate the women this year. A bigger prize is also at stake for at least 10 to 12 other players, who will be vying for eight slots on the New York-bound flight that will take off at the end of May for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean.
    There will be unbelievable comebacks by some; a few new stars will emerge; there will also be those usual rags-to-riches stories and all of it could unfold in a matter of four minutes, the time it takes to deliver one over.
    Source: Agencies

  • Sharath chosen as flagbearer for Paris, Mary chef de mission

    Sharath chosen as flagbearer for Paris, Mary chef de mission

    Veteran table tennis player and reigning CWG champion Sharath Kamal will be India’s flagbearer at the Paris Olympics while legendary boxer MC Mary Kom was today appointed the chef de mission of the country’s contingent.
    The 41-year-old table tennis player symbolises “the unity and spirit of our contingent as they compete on the Olympic stage”, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) said in a statement.
    “It has been an unbelievable three weeks,” Kamal said. “From not even sure of an Olympics berth to playing the way I did in Singapore last week, jumping 54 spots in the rankings, to being named India’s flagbearer,” he added. Kamal was India’s flagbearer at the closing ceremony of the 2022 Birmingham CWG, where he won three gold medals.
    Six-time world champion Mary Kom, bronze medallist at the 2012 London Olympics, will be assisted by luger Shiva Keshavan, who has been appointed the deputy chef de mission.
    Olympics bronze medallist Gagan Narang will oversee India’s operations at the shooting range, which is afar from the main venues.

  • Phalgun Purnima: The most fortunate day of the year

    Phalgun Purnima: The most fortunate day of the year

    Purnima’s are considered the most fortunate days of the year, they are celebrated all over India in the name of Poonam, Poornima, and Poornamasi, and so on. On this holy occasion, most devotees keep a fast and worship Lord Vishnu. The word “Purnima” is a Sanskrit word that means “Full Moon.” Hence, the full moon i.e the last day of every month in the Hindu Calendar is referred to as the Purnima.
    The Phalgun Purnima occurs at the end of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Phalguna, which is also the last month of the year. The Phalgun Purnima marks the end of the Hindu Calendar and promises the beginning of a new year. Now that we have a basic idea as to what is, let us find out ahead why it is so important in the Hindu religion.
    Significance of Phalgun Purnima
    As per the Hindu calendar, the Phalguna month is the last month of the year. Therefore, the Phalguna Purnima is considered highly significant in the Hindu religion, given the fact that it is the last day of the year. Holika Dahan, which is one of the biggest rituals in the Hindu religion, is celebrated on this very day. The day marks the arrival of spring and it is believed that on this day the Moon strongly influences the Planet Earth with its energies.
    The day is the last full moon of the year and it is believed that if a devotee observes a fast and worships the moon and Lord Shri Hari Vishnu with all sincerity on this auspicious day, then he/she shall be free of all his past and present sins. Devotees all over the country worship Lord Shri Hari Vishnu on this day in order to obtain salvation. According to the Hindu religion, salvation is the ultimate destiny of human life on Earth.
    The day of the Phalgun Purnima is also celebrated as the Laxmi Jayanti, which is the birth anniversary of the Goddess of fortune, wealth, and abundance, Goddess Laxmi. Considering the fact that so many occasions collide on this highly fortunate day, makes it one of the most important days in the Hindu religion.
    Fasting Method
    Lord Narasimha, who is considered the fourth incarnation of Lord Shri Hari Vishnu, is worshipped on the day of the Phalgun Purnima. It is believed that worshipping Lord Narasimha, Lord Shri Hari Vishnu, and Goddess Laxmi on this auspicious day brings health, wealth, and prosperity into the house. Therefore, below mentioned is the Puja and fasting method that needs to be followed on the Phalgun Purnima in order to please Lord Shri Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi and obtain their blessings.
    – Wake up early in the morning and take a bath with pure water.
    – After the bath, wear clean clothes and worship Lord Vishnu.
    – After the Puja, take a vow to keep a fast from sunrise to moonrise.
    – Break the fast after the moon rises in the evening.
    – Make sure your thoughts are positive on this day and that you do not hurt anyone’s feelings.
    Puja Method
    The Holika Dahan is the festival that marks the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated on the day of the Phalgun Purnima and is a very important festival for Hindus all over the world. In the next section we shall discuss the story behind the Holika Dahan, but before that let us take a look at the Holika puja method that is to be followed on the Phalgun Purnima.
    – Collect dry cow dung and wood sticks in an open space.
    – Place the following items on a plate and offer them to Holika Mata: Kumkum, Rice, Turmeric, Henna, Gulal, Roli, Coconut, a Handful of Wheat, Lachha Cotton, a Lotus, some Flowers, and Garlands.
    – Now light the wood sticks and cow dungs of fire, which is also called “Burning Holika.”
    – Chant the following mantra in the name of Lord Narsimha.
    “Om Nrisimhaye vidmahe vajranakhaya dhimahi tan no simhah Prachodayat
    Vajra nakhaya vidmahe tikshna damstraya dhimahi tan no narasimhah Prachodayat”
    Perform an aarti and circumambulate around Holika.
    Make the children circumambulate and take the blessings of their elders.
    Story Behind Phalgun Purnima
    Thousands of years ago, during Satya Yuga, the kingdom of demons was ruled by King Hiranya Kashyap. The king of demons had made life miserable for everyone on Earth and caused a lot of trouble for everyone on the planet. He was so overconfident as he had asked for a boon from Lord Brahma after years of penance and meditation, which was granted to him. The boon was that Hiranya Kashyap shall never be killed by a man nor a woman, not an animal nor a bird, not during the day or during the night, not by a supernatural weapon nor a hand weapon, not inside his palace nor outside his palace and finally not by a God nor by a demon. When he was granted this boon, it was as though he was immortal and he began believing himself to be the all mighty. Therefore, he ordered everyone in the kingdom to stop worshipping Lord Shri Hari Vishnu and start worshipping him instead, and that anyone who shall not agree to do so, shall be killed.
    The Fear Of Hiranyakashyap
    Everyone in the kingdom began worshipping him out of the fear of death. However, Hiranyakashyap’s own son, Prahlad was a sincere devotee of Lord Vishnu, and he continued to worship Lord Shri Hari Vishnu against the orders of his father. This infuriated Hiranyakashyap and he decided to have Prahlad, his own son killed. Nevertheless, Prahlad continued to worship Lord Vishnu and chanting the name of “Hari.”

  • Khajuraho: The architectural masterpiece of India

    Khajuraho: The architectural masterpiece of India

    Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madhya Pradesh, is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. A small town located in the Bundelkhand region, Khajuraho is a brilliant example of Indian architecture and its culture back in the medieval period. The architecture of these Hindu and Jain temples depict the erotic forms of love, the carvings on the walls display passion in the most sensuous yet aesthetic ways. Built between 950 to 1050 AD the sheer confrontational nature of these carvings shows a stark paradox with the conventional Indian ideals about eroticism, leaving everybody spellbound.
    Art in this small town is engrained in all of its structures and are a classic example of the finesse of India’s cultural and artistic heritage. The best part about Khajuraho is that although scores of plunderers tried to destroy the whole complex, they could never succeed, even though they managed to reduce the number of temples and caves to 25 from a staggering 85 at the time it was created.
    Dulhadev Temple
    Built in the year 1130 the Dulhadev Temple enshrines a beautiful shivalingam and striking sculptures of Apsaras and other ornamented figures. The temple also has a stunning sculpture of Lord Shiva with his wife Parvati, the intricate details of the carvings adding to the charm of the overall architecture.
    Kandariya Mahadev Temple
    Built around 1025-1050 AD, this temple exudes grandeur and finesse in its architecture. With beautiful frescos of women in various postures adorning the walls of this temple, this place is one of the most stunning tourists sites in Khajuraho.
    Kandariya Mahadev Temple has an artistically engraved shrine with over 800 images of women, most of which are more than 3 feet high. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a shivalingam at the centre of Garba Griha. Made of a typical sandstone structure, the artisitic representation of eroticism on the walls of this temple are bound to give a new perspective on India’s cultural heritage.
    Lakshman Temple
    The oldest and most aesthetically pleasing temples among the Western group of Temples, the Lakshman temple is named after the ruler of that time. The trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is depicted in the horizontal beam over the entrance of the temple.
    Parsvanath temple
    This temple is the largest among the Eastern group of temples and has intricately detailed carvings on its walls. The most intriguing side of the architecture of this temple is the aesthetic blend of Hindu, muslim and Buddhist styles.
    The highlights of the temple are the sculptures on the northern outer walls.
    Vishwanath Temple
    Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one among the western group of temples. It has a beautiful marble shivalinga as the main deity. An imposing image of Brahma is also housed in this temple. A massive sculpture of Nandi the Bull is also enshrined alongside the Shivalingam.

  • Equity indices join rally in global markets as US Fed plans rate cut

    Equity indices join rally in global markets as US Fed plans rate cut

    New Delhi (TIP)- Benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty joined a rally in global markets on Thursday, March 21, after the US Federal Reserve maintained its projection of three rate cuts this year. According to experts, Construction, metals, PSU banks, media & entertainment, energy, consumer durables, financial services and pharma were among the major sectors which moved the index higher. According to data, Sensex settled 540 points higher at 72,641 levels while the Nifty 50 shut at 22,012, up 173 points. The US Federal Reserve kept the policy rate unchanged in the range of 5.25% to 5.5%. It signalled that it remains on track to cut interest rates by 75 basis points in 2024.
    “The Indian markets gained significantly. From the low made near 71,675 zone in the previous session, the Sensex managed to move past the important 50-EMA (Exponential Moving Average) level of 72,200 zone and breached the 72,500 levels intraday. Sensex gained 515 points and sentiment has improved along with a positive bias, so a further rise can be anticipated. Construction, metals, PSU Banks, media and entertainment, energy, consumer durables, financial services and pharma were among the major sectors which moved the index higher today,”said Shiju Koothupalakkal, Technical Analyst, Prabhudas Lilladher Pvt Ltd.
    According to market experts, the Federal Reserve’s March policy was on expected lines. Though they indicated that three cuts will happen this year, however experts are of the view the quantum of rate cuts will not be more than 75 bps.” Source: TNS

  • Sam Altman’s Reddit stake rises over $200 million after IPO

    Sam Altman’s Reddit stake rises over $200 million after IPO

    OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s stake in Reddit rose by $200 million to over $613 million following the social media company’s IPO debut. Shares of the 19-year-old company jumped 48% in New York Stock Exchange trading to close at $50.44. Sam Altman- who is among the biggest Reddit shareholders- has a control of 7.6% of outstanding shares after the offering, according to the company’s prospectus. This is behind only Condé Nast parent Advance Magazine Publishers and Chinese internet giant Tencent.
    But Sam Altman is restricted from selling Reddit shares for six months during the so-called lockup period.
    Prior to the emergence of OpenAI in recent years, Sam Altman was best known as a startup investor and as the president of Y Combinator, a position he exited in 2019. His investment portfolio includes past or present stakes in Airbnb, Uber, Instacart, Stripe and Asana. His top bet is Reddit where he was also on the company board until January 2022 when the firm said he stepped down.
    In 2014, Sam Altman led Reddit’s $50 million Series B funding round, after using the service every day for nine years, he shared. At the time, he called the website “an example of something that started out looking like a silly toy for wasting time and has become something very interesting.”

  • JSW, MG Motor join hands to make inroads into car market

    JSW, MG Motor join hands to make inroads into car market

    Indian conglomerate JSW Group and Chinese automotive manufacturer SAIC Motor-owned MG Motor India today kick-started their joint venture to produce both electric and internal combustion engine cars to capture a large chunk of the Indian market.
    In the joint venture, JSW group will pick up 35 per cent stake, Indian financial institutions 8 per cent, MG dealers 3 per cent and employees 5 per cent, taking the total to 51 per cent. The stakeholders together will invest Rs 5,000 crore in the first phase, which will be utilised to ramp up the existing capacity and launch new vehicles. The joint venture is targeting to sell one million electric vehicles in India by 2030.
    There are plans to launch a new product, including NEVs (new energy vehicles) every three to six months, with two new products slated to be launched this year.
    Also, the company will expand its production capacity in Halol, Gujarat, with a focus on producing NEVs. This will significantly increase the production capacity from the current 1,00,000 plus to up to 3,00,000 vehicles annually. Source: TNS

  • US sues Apple in landmark iPhone monopoly lawsuit

    US sues Apple in landmark iPhone monopoly lawsuit

    Washington (TIP)- The US Department of Justice sued Apple on Thursday, March 21, for illegally maintaining a monopoly for its iPhone by stifling competition and imposing exorbitant costs on consumers. The lawsuit, also brought by multiple US states, attacked the iPhone for raking in hundreds of billions of dollars by making it difficult for consumers to switch away to cheaper smartphones and devices. The long anticipated case against Apple sees the company founded by Steve Jobs in 1976 clash with Washington after largely escaping US government scrutiny for nearly a half century.
    It joins Amazon, Google and Facebook-owner Meta which are also facing antitrust lawsuits in the United States. News of the lawsuit sent shares in Apple down by as much as 3.75 percent on Wall Street on Thursday. At the heart of the case is Apple’s alleged exclusionary practices that set strict and at times opaque conditions on firms and developers seeking to reach the iPhone’s 136 million US users. According to the lawsuit, these rules and decisions have been designed to force Apple users into staying in the Apple ecosystem and buying the company’s more expensive hardware, the iPhone.
    “Consumers should not have to pay higher prices because companies violate the antitrust laws,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “If left unchallenged, Apple will only continue to strengthen its smartphone monopoly,” he added.
    Apple fights back
    The far-reaching case singled out practices that it said was making Apple richer to the detriment of advancing innovation and technology for consumers. In a statement, Apple denied the merit of the lawsuit, saying it was “wrong on the facts and the law, and we will vigorously defend against it.”
    If successful, the suit would “set a dangerous precedent, empowering government to take a heavy hand in designing people’s technology,” the company added.
    The lawsuit for example accused Apple of squashing the creation of Super Apps, one-stop web portals that could exist on an iPhone and give consumers other ways to get services, such as music, photo or movies.
    Other big tech giants such as Meta have long dreamed of opening such super-apps on the iPhone, which accounts for roughly half of the smartphone market in the United States.
    The accusations also target Apple’s wallet, which is the only application allowed on the iPhone to access the technology to make tap payments in stores, forcing others to pay a fee.
    Messaging apps are under the microscope too, with prosecutors accusing Apple of making it hard for Apple users to interact easily with Android phone users, coercing them to buying the more expensive iPhone.
    The broad case also mentions smartwatches, with the Apple Watch only being available through the iPhone, and competing smartwatches having very limited functionality on the iPhone.

  • 2023 ‘hottest year’ records lowest sea ice, glaciers; 90% ocean experienced heatwave conditions: WMO

    2023 ‘hottest year’ records lowest sea ice, glaciers; 90% ocean experienced heatwave conditions: WMO

    The fact that 2023 was the hottest year on record that smashed the global temperature record has already been confirmed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
    Now, according to the State of Global Climate report, which reconfirms 2023 as the “hottest year on record by clear margin”, on an average day in the year nearly one third of the global ocean remained gripped by a marine heatwave, harming vital ecosystems and food systems.
    “Towards the end of 2023, over 90 per cent of the ocean had experienced heatwave conditions at some point during the year. The global set of reference glaciers suffered the largest loss of ice on record (since 1950), driven by extreme melt in both western North America and Europe according to preliminary data,” as per the latest WMO report released ahead of the World Meteorological Day on March 23.
    Records were broken for ocean heat, sea level rise, the Antarctic sea ice loss and glacier retreat. The extreme weather undermined socio-economic development. However, the renewable energy transition provides hope, it said.
    “Heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones caused misery and mayhem, upending every-day life for millions and inflicting many billions of dollars in economic losses,” according to the WMO State of the Global Climate 2023 report.
    Alarming state of oceans, sea ice, glaciers
    The unprecedented ocean warmth, glacier retreat and Antarctic sea ice loss is cause for particular concern, according to the WMO statement.
    In 2023, global mean sea level reached a record high in the satellite record (since 1993), reflecting continued ocean warming (thermal expansion) as well as the melting of glaciers and ice sheets.
    The rate of global mean sea level rise in the past 10 years (2014–2023) is more than twice the rate of sea level rise in the first decade of the satellite record (1993–2002).
    Meanwhile, Antarctic sea-ice extent reached an absolute record low for the satellite era (since 1979) in February 2023 and remained at record low for the time of year from June till early November.
    The annual maximum in September was 16.96 million km2, roughly 1.5 million km2 below the 1991–2020 average and 1 million km2 below the previous record low maximum, it said
    Arctic sea-ice extent remained well below normal, with the annual maximum and minimum sea ice extent being the fifth and sixth lowest on record respectively.
    “There are two principal ice sheets, the Greenland Ice Sheet and the Antarctic Ice Sheet. Combining the two ice sheets, the seven highest melt years on record are all since 2010, and average rates of mass loss increased from 105 Gigatonnes per year from 1992–1996 to 372 Gigatonnes per year from 2016–2020. This is equivalent to about 1 mm per year of global sea level rise attributed to the ice sheets in the latter period. Source: TNS

  • WIZPR Ring, the AI-powered smart ring with voice activation, translation, and more

    WIZPR Ring, the AI-powered smart ring with voice activation, translation, and more

    Seoul-based VTouch Inc. has announced the world’s first-of-its-kind smart wearable ring, the WIZPR Ring. VTouch is among the world’s leading AI/deep learning companies and has showcased the ring at the recently held CES 2024, where it bagged the Innovation Award. The all-new WIZPR Ring comes with advanced AI capabilities to provide users with the unique ability to whisper commands discreetly.
    According to the company, the device excels at filtering out background noise and responding exclusively to close-range speech. The ring signifies a significant leap forward in AI-powered wearable technology.
    “AI-based conversational computing is expected to be the next big thing that goes beyond the limitations of ‘graphical user interfaces’ such as PCs and smartphones. With WIZPR RING, we aim to realise a conversational computing environment where you can interact with AI by talking to it with your voice anytime, anywhere, without having to look at a screen,” said SJ Kim, Founder & Co-CEO of VTouch.
    The device effortlessly switches between various AI assistants using a button press or with the mention of a scenario-specific aid. Users can activate tailored interactions through a triple-press button or set a greeting using personal data. For discrete interactions, users can whisper commands. The device can also be connected using Bluetooth for quick and efficient conversation of spoken words to texts.
    The WIZPR Ring is priced at $199 (about Rs 16,559) and is currently available for pre-order through a crowdfunding campaign. As an early bird supporter, the unit can be obtained at $139 (about Rs 11,566).
    The makers claim that the ring offers seamless voice conversations through the ring and the user’s earphones. It is activated using a built-in proximity sensor and microphone and this eliminates the need to activate it via pressing buttons. The device unlocks almost instantly when brought close to the mouth, allowing immediate voice input without wake words, terminating recognition when away.
    It comes with high-accuracy, noise-resistant proximity recognition and ensures privacy by isolating the user’s voice from the surroundings. It essentially picks up even the softest of whispers, allowing for a secure space for conversation. Besides, it also doubles up as a versatile digital assistant and can be paired with its smartphone app integrating a variety of AI tools and assistants such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and more. The ring also grants control over smart home devices, listens to incoming texts, and several other services. This virtually eliminates the need to check the smartphone each time.
    Source: The Indian Express

  • We now have a chip for generative AI era, says Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang

    We now have a chip for generative AI era, says Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang

    As big tech companies aim to lead the generative AI race, Nvidia Founder and CEO Jensen Huang has said that they have created a processor for the GenAI era. Huang introduced the company’s new Blackwell computing platform at the GTC conference in the US, saying that increased computing power can deliver for everything from software to services, robotics to medical technology and more.
    “Accelerated computing has reached the tipping point — general purpose computing has run out of steam,” Huang told more than 11,000 attendees during his keynote address.
    Delivering a massive upgrade to the world’s AI infrastructure, Huang introduced the Nvidia Blackwell platform “to unleash real-time generative AI on trillion-parameter large language models”. Huang also presented Nvidia NIM — a reference to NVIDIA inference microservices — a new way of packaging and delivering software that connects developers with hundreds of millions of GPUs to deploy custom AI of all kinds.

  • Foods to beat high cholesterol levels

    Foods to beat high cholesterol levels

    Keeping cholesterol levels in check can not only prevent you from the risk of early death but also infuse more energy and happiness into your daily life. As we all know that cholesterol itself isn’t bad and the waxy substance aids in building cells and producing certain hormones. However, courtesy our modern lifestyle choices, we are accumulating too much of it in our body due to our poor eating habits and lack of an active lifestyle. High cholesterol levels in the body can wreak havoc putting us at risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure all the risk factors which could affect quality of our life and even prove to be fatal.
    Modifying your diet to include healthy alternatives to fatty and sugary eatables is the first step towards overall well-being and reducing your cholesterol levels. From choosing heart-healthy fats like avocados, nuts and olive oil to staying away from processed foods and trans fats, here’s what one can do to keep the cholesterol levels in control. Nutritionist Bhakti Arora Kapoor in her latest Instagram post talks about the heroes and villains of cholesterol – HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and explains how one can boost the good while keeping the bad at bay.
    Flaxseeds
    Flaxseeds contain alpha – linolenic acid, an essential omega-3 fatty acids which been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, as well as triglycerides levels. You can add flaxseeds to your breakfast cereal, sandwich, or yoghurt. If you are fond of baking, you can add them to your cookies, muffins, and other baked goods.
    Fish oil
    Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Regular intake of these fatty acids in the form of fish like mackerel, salmon, lake trout, sardines and halibut help in lowering the cholesterol levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
    Garlic
    Garlic contains a high concentration of allicin, a sulfur containing compound which is known for reducing total and LDL cholesterol significantly. Chew a few cloves of garlic in the morning and at bedtime regularly. Raw garlic works better than cooked ones. You can also add them to your curries for added taste and nutrition.
    Dark leafy greens
    While all vegetables are good for your heart, dark leafy greens are particularly beneficial. Dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, contain lutein and other carotenoids, which are linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
    Legumes
    Legumes contain a lot of fibre, minerals and protein. Replacing some refined grains and processed meats in your diet with legumes can lower your risk of heart disease. Eat dal-chawal, cheela, dosa or soup to enjoy legumes. Source: HT

  • Why popping vitamin pills without doctor’s prescription may harm you

    Why popping vitamin pills without doctor’s prescription may harm you

    While it may seem fancy to take vitamin supplements daily, regular consumption without consulting a doctor may be detrimental to your health, warned health experts.
    Vitamin pills may help people with deficiencies, the elderly or pregnant women, but research has shown that overdose may result in problems like digestive issues, kidney stones and even heart disease. The pills are also not a substitute for a healthy diet.
    “Without medical supervision, using multivitamin pills or calcium on a regular basis can have negative health consequences. Taking too much of these supplements might result in overdosing, which can harm organs over time and cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting and stomach pain,” Senior Consultant Mohan Kumar Singh of Department of Internal Medicine at Marengo Asia Hospital in Gurugram, told IANS.
    “These supplements may also interfere with prescribed medicines, reducing their effectiveness or perhaps resulting in negative side effects. Taking too many multivitamins might throw off the body’s natural nutrient balance, sometimes resulting in imbalances or deficiencies. Nutritional imbalances can be made worse by specific vitamins or minerals interfering with the usage or absorption of other nutrients,” he added.
    Multivitamins typically contain about 26 different vitamins and minerals, often providing 100 per cent of the recommended daily allowance of these micronutrients.
    However, “multivitamins are not required by everyone and should not be considered a replacement of a balanced diet inclusive of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, healthy fats, and proteins,” Lead Consultant Tushar Tayal at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, told IANS.
    He noted that multivitamins should not be consumed regularly without confirming the deficiency through blood tests. Source: IANS

     

  • Diet for kidney health: Foods to consume & avoid

    Diet for kidney health: Foods to consume & avoid

    Maintaining kidney health involves a balanced diet that supports overall well-being while managing specific dietary restrictions. A kidney-friendly diet typically emphasizes low-sodium, low-fat foods and includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting phosphorus, potassium, and protein intake may also be necessary, depending on individual needs.
    Dr Roshan Kore, Consulting Dietician, NHSRCC Children’s Hospital, says, “A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables is essential for maintaining kidney health. Limiting sodium, phosphorus, and potassium intake is crucial, as these can exacerbate kidney diseases. Incorporating foods like leafy greens, berries, fish, and low-fat dairy can provide essential nutrients while supporting kidney function.”
    One must adopt a balanced diet to prevent kidney diseases. “Emphasizing low-sodium, low-fat, and low-cholesterol foods is crucial. Opting for fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish and poultry, and healthy fats such as those found in nuts and olive oil can promote kidney health. Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants like berries and leafy greens helps protect against oxidative stress,” shares Dr Suparna Mukherjee, Charge, of Clinical Nutrition, Narayana Health City, Bangalore.
    Hydration is also key; adequate water intake helps flush out toxins and prevents kidney stones. “Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption can further safeguard against kidney damage. Remember, a mindful approach to nutrition not only supports overall health but also plays a pivotal role in preventing and managing kidney diseases,” adds Dr Kore.
    Additionally, limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive protein intake can reduce the risk of kidney damage. “Remember, a wholesome diet is not only vital for overall health but also plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our kidneys for the long term,” signs off Dr Mukherjee. Source: News18

  • Home remedies to reduce wrinkles

    Home remedies to reduce wrinkles

    Wrinkles are a natural part of ageing, but there are ways to reduce the appearance of wrinkles skin care routine. Reducing wrinkles and fine lines is a multi-faceted process that requires a combination of different techniques. By following a well-balanced skincare routine and using effective home remedies, you can achieve a more youthful appearance. Following are the top 10 effective home remedies that will help you reduce and prevent wrinkles on face, under-eye areas, etc.
    Eat a healthy, vitamin-rich diet
    Your skin is the largest organ in your body – and just like your body it needs proper nutrition. Poor nutrition can contribute to fine lines and wrinkles, so it’s important to eat a balanced diet. If you don’t have sufficient time or your daily routine is irregular, then you can take doctor-recommended supplements for skin. They will complement your diet and make sure your skin and body is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals for healthy, wrinkle-free skin.
    Avoid cigarettes and alcohol
    Cigarettes and alcohol are also major contributors to wrinkles, or faster ageing of the skin. There’s no need to suffer from wrinkles and fine lines – they can be reduced with a little effort. As a matter of fact, some simple tips and healthy routine without the use of cigarettes or alcohol will go a long way in helping you reduce wrinkles on face and under eyes.
    Prevent wrinkles with a home-made face mask
    Another great option is to make a face mask out of honey, yogurt, applesauce, and rose water. This will help to moisturise the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
    Use a Hyaluronic acid serum for face
    The power of Hyaluronic acid is undisputed – it provides effective and long-lasting hydration for your face without any negative or harmful effects. It’s best to use a dermatologist-recommended Hyaluronic acid serum for face with natural and proven ingredients.
    Hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate!
    Hydration is key when it comes to reducing wrinkles – make sure you drink plenty of water every day!
    Most anti-ageing skincare products have ingredients such as Hyaluronic acid and antioxidants that give you a softer and smoother skin texture. However, the way these skin ingredients work is by providing natural, intense, and deep hydration for your skin. This does not mean that you skip out on drinking water. Dermatologists recommend drinking sufficient water regularly as it helps to flush out toxins from your skin and gives you a younger-looking appearance.

  • Benefits of oiling your hair

    Benefits of oiling your hair

    Oiling is perhaps the best thing you can do to your hair. In the long run, this practice is your key to healthier and stronger hair.
    Natural goodness for hair
    The first benefit is that natural hair oil, meaning the least processed, comes packed with several of the vitamins and micro-nutrients that are found in food. So hair oil is basically hair food.
    Revitalises hair tissues
    The second benefit of a hair oil massage is the way it penetrates the skin. A shampoo-conditioner, no matter how good its components, can’t match the way hair oil goes deep into the skin and does its job revitalising the skin tissue.
    Relaxing massage for healthy scalp
    The third benefit of a thorough hair oil massage is that it boosts blood circulation in the scalp. The oil is spread evenly around the scalp, sending nutrients directly to all the hair roots.
    Fights hair fall
    Hair oil does the job of fighting hair fall and of aiding hair regrowth. Therefore, whether you’ve got a hair loss problem or not, you can use a hair thickening oil, and the results can only be good.
    Tames frizz
    Using hair oil is a great way to control frizzy hair. On days when your hair seems all out of control and frizzy, rub some hair oil on your palms and run through the hair lightly. This will cause the frizz to settle immediately and also provide nourishment to the hair.
    Tips for oiling your hair
    – Ideally, your scalp should be clean for the hair oil to work really well.
    – Wash hair with a degreasing shampoo and let the hair dry out completely.
    – Then apply hair oil the same day or the next day (before dirt builds up again on the scalp).
    – Massage the oil in gently for about 10 to 15 minutes but thoroughly, covering every inch of the scalp. If you can warm the hair oil slightly before applying, it will spread better.
    – Leave this on for at least 3 hours before washing off. You could even leave the hair oil on overnight, if you’re so inclined. Keeping it more than 24 hourswill make the hair weak as it will start accumulating dirt.
    – Oil your hair at least once a week however for dry hair twice a week is advisable.

  • Chana masala

    Chana masala

    Ingredients
    800g canned chickpeas or 720g jar giant chickpeas, 3 onions, quartered, 3 garlic cloves, 5cm piece of ginger, 2-3 green chillies, roughly chopped, 1½ tbsp ghee, ½ tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp ground cumin, ½ tsp chilli, powder (Kashmiri if possible), 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 ½ tsp amchoor powder (optional), 3 medium tomatoes, around 300g), roughly chopped, or 400g can chopped, tomatoes, 1 lemon juiced, ½ small pack coriander leaves, to serve
    Method
    – Drain the chickpeas, add to a large pan with 400ml of water and season. Bring to the boil, then turn off the heat and set aside to allow the chickpea flavour to infuse the water.
    – Blitz the onions with the garlic, ginger and green chillies. Melt the ghee in a large saucepan, then add the onion mix with a pinch of salt and cook for 8-10 mins, until softened.
    – Stir in the spices, and cook for 3 more mins, adding a splash of the chickpea water to stop them sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add the tomatoes and another splash of water and cook for 5 mins, squishing the tomatoes with a spoon as they soften. Tip in the chickpeas, along with their cooking water. Cook for 10 mins. Season well, add the lemon juice, and a splash of water if you like a looser curry. Scatter with the coriander, to serve.

  • Michelle Pfeiffer to star in Oh.What.Fun

    Michelle Pfeiffer to star in Oh.What.Fun

    Filmmaker Michael Showalter has teamed up with Hollywood veteran Michelle Pfeiffer for his next feature film.
    Written by Showalter and Chandler Baker, the film is a holiday comedy, titled Oh.What.Fun.
    The project, which is backed by Amazon MGM, is based on a short story from Baker that was originally published by Amazon Original Stories. Pfeiffer will essay the role of Claire Clauster, who organises a special Christmas outing when her family forgets her in the shuffle. By the time they realise their mistake, she’s gone missing. Their Christmas is in jeopardy, but Claire has other plans.

  • Jessica Alba says she could have been potential target for a predator

    Jessica Alba says she could have been potential target for a predator

    Jessica Alba has opened up about how she found success at a young age, but her time in the industry wasn’t traumatic. In an interview to Elle India, the Hollywood actor, who started her career at the age of 13 with Camp Nowhere (1994) and rose to prominence at 19 as the lead actor in the show Dark Angel (2000–2002), said her mother would join her at work.
    Jessica said, “I could have been a potential target for a predator, but luckily, I wasn’t. There were a few times when things felt uncomfortable, but they never escalated too much, thankfully. I’m truly grateful to God for this because many others haven’t been as fortunate, especially starting out young as I did. Having my mom (Catherine Jensen) with me all the time really made a difference.”
    She also spoke about her over-three-decade career as an actor, and navigating the complex world of Hollywood as a woman. Jessica said, “I never let my guard down [as an actor]. I was always pretty tough, pretty in-your-face about it. I probably channelled more of that tough, masculine energy. When I look back at why I was probably so tough for so much of my life, it was probably just to safeguard myself from a lot of people.”
    Jessica has played a variety of roles ranging from light comedy to gritty drama since beginning her career. She made her feature film debut in 1993 in Hollywood Pictures’ comedy Camp Nowhere (1994). She branched out into TV in 1994 with a recurring role in Nickelodeon’s popular comedy series The Secret World of Alex Mack (1994). Her first starring role in a major studio film was the Honey (2003). In 2005 she starred opposite Bruce Willis in the critically acclaimed Sin City (2005). She then starred as Sue Storm ‘The Invisible Girl’ in Marvel’s action-franchise blockbuster Fantastic Four (2005). Some of her other films include Valentine’s Day (2010), Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World (2011), and Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014).

  • Johnny Depp breaks silence after Blow co-star Lola Glaudini accuses him of abuse

    Johnny Depp breaks silence after Blow co-star Lola Glaudini accuses him of abuse

    Actor Johnny Depp has reacted after his Blow co-star Lola Glaudini accused him of verbally abusing her on sets of their 2001 film. As reported by Deadline, Johnny’s response came after an episode of the Powerful Truth Angels podcast from January 30 recently emerged on social media. In the podcast, Lola recounted how she was mistreated by Johnny.
    In a statement to Deadline, Johnny’s representative said, “Johnny always prioritises good working relationships with cast and crew and this recounting differs greatly from the recollection of other members on set at the time.”
    According to the report, Lola said that while filming a scene for Blow, director Ted Demme told her to ‘burst out laughing’ while Johnny delivered a monologue. “I hear the cue, and I go haha, I do a big laugh or whatever. Johnny Depp, when they say cut, walks over to me, comes up to me, sticks his finger in my face and he goes, ‘Who the f*** do you think you are? Who the f*** do you think you are? Shut the f*** up. I’m out here, and I’m trying to f***ing say my lines and you’re f****** pulling focus. You f****** idiot. Oh, now, oh now it’s not so funny? Now you can shut up? Now you can f****** shut the fuck up? The quiet that you are right now, that’s how you f****** stay.’”
    Lola shared that it happened on the first day on the set and she hadn’t met Johnny before that. She added that he was with the star whom she ‘idolised’ and was ‘so excited to work with’, but he ‘reamed me in my face’. Lola revealed her thought at that point was not to cry.
    She recalled that Johnny approached her later and said that earlier, he was ‘really in his head’ and staying in his character, ‘doing this Boston accent’, adding it was ‘really f****** with him’. He added that he wanted to make sure “we’re cool and everything”. Lola said that she replied she was ‘totally cool’.
    Blow was a biographical crime drama film directed by Ted Demme, about an American cocaine kingpin and his international network. Apart from Johnny and Lola, the film also starred Penelope Cruz, Franka Potente, Rachel Griffiths and Paul Reubens, among others.
    Source: HT

  • Will Smith says he read Quran ‘cover to cover during Ramadan’

    Will Smith says he read Quran ‘cover to cover during Ramadan’

    Will Smith gave an insight into his spiritual journey in an interview. The Hollywood actor spoke about his appreciation for the Quran and its impact on his life during a chat with Egyptian journalist Amr Adeeb on the Big Time Podcast. Will said that he ‘read all holy books’ in the last couple of years, and added he ‘read the Quran cover to cover during Ramadan this year’. The interview, which is being widely shared online now, took place in December 2023. Will Smith said, “You know the last two years of my life have been a difficult time and my attention turned inward. And I was just talking to someone earlier about how I read all the holy books. I read the Quran. I read the Quran cover to cover during Ramadan this year (2023). This is the spiritual-seeking phase of my life. This is the period of my life that I am trying to cultivate as wide, open and loving a heart as I will be able to.” The actor also said, “I love the simplicity of the Quran. It’s so clear. It’s crystal clear…”

  • ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ not a work of fiction, it’s true, authentic: Imtiaz Ali

    ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ not a work of fiction, it’s true, authentic: Imtiaz Ali

    Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, speaking exclusively to IndiaToday.in, revealed that his upcoming film, ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ is not a work of fiction. The film, which features Diljit Doasanjh and Parineeti Chopra, is a biopic on the life of legendary Punjabi singer, Amar Singh Chamkila. He also opened up about the reason behind doing this biographical drama.
    In his interview, Imtiaz explained that he stayed authentic and true to the story and how much of the film is based on the fiction. He said, “As far as I know, it’s completely authentic and true. I have not taken any shortcuts. I have not made any scenes out of my imagination. I have tried to be very authentic for my own sake because I feel that I always make films by imagination, but how would this film be different from the others for me? Also, as a filmmaker, when you go out looking for the truth, you end up knowing more dramatic things.”
    The ‘Jab We Met’ director also revealed that he never thought of making a biopic. Explaining further, he said, “I have never made a biopic before. But I would often hear about Amar Singh Chamkila through my friends, especially from my production head Rajesh Sharma. He would always say that I should make a film on the singer. In fact, he was the first person who told me about Chamkila.”
    He continued, “Then, I started listening to his music and found many things interesting about him. Finally, six years back, around the release of ‘Love Aaj Kal 2’, a gentleman called Harpreet, had the rights to the film Chamkila, which was very difficult to get. For some reason, he felt that he should approach me to direct this film.”
    “I did ask him ‘why did you come to me to make this film?’. I am not even from Punjab, and he said ‘Aap ki film mein Punjab bahut his khoobsurati se dekha ya jata hain’ (In your films, Punjab is portrayed beautifully). It took five years because I did not have much knowledge about Chamkila. Then, Covid happened, and I was visiting Punjab with Chamkila at back of my mind. I started listening to the stories of the singer and it got interesting. I had my own view and story to tell through Chamkila and that’s when I decided to make the film,” he added.
    Amar Singh Chamkila, with his raw and unabashed lyrics, challenged societal norms and became a voice for the marginalised. His music transcended geographical boundaries and resonated with audiences across generations.
    His songs, often addressing taboo subjects with unfiltered honesty, remain relevant even today. By immortalising Chamkila’s legacy on celluloid, Imtiaz Ali aims to introduce his artistry to a wider audience and pay homage to his contribution to Punjabi music.
    ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ will premiere on Netflix on April 12.
    Source: India Today

  • Choli Ke Peeche: Kareena grooves on remix of Madhuri’s iconic number

    Choli Ke Peeche: Kareena grooves on remix of Madhuri’s iconic number

    Who can ever forget the controversial yet ironic song Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai from Subhash Ghai’s 1993 crime drama Khal Nayak, filmed on Madhuri Dixit? Now, the makers of Rajesh A Krishnan’s upcoming heist comedy Crew have rehashed the track and guess who features in the revamped version? Kareena Kapoor.
    The new song that the YouTube handle of Tips Official dropped on Wednesday is a groovier version of the original. After hinting at remixing the memorable song through its instantly recognisable coo-coo hook in the trailer, the makers of Crew have finally unveiled the music video, featuring Kareena.
    Snippets from the film, featuring the scenes between Tabu and Kapil Sharma, and Kriti Sanon and Diljit Dosanjh, have been peppered throughout the music video. However, the highlight is Kareena grooving and lip-syncing to the song in a flowy pink dress at a nightclub. The actor looks gorgeous as she pays a tribute to Madhuri through this recreation. The new song has been remixed by Akshay & IP, sung by Diljit Dosanjh and IP Singh, and written by IP Singh. The original song was sung by Ila Arun and Alka Yagnik, composed by Lakshmikant-Pyarelal, and penned by Anand Bakshi. The voices of Ila and Alka have been partially retained in the recreation.