The Indian Panorama

Month: September 2024

  • A Photo-feature by Jay Mandal to commemorate the visit of the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi to the US from September 21-23, 2024

    A Photo-feature by Jay Mandal to commemorate the visit of the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi to the US from September 21-23, 2024

    Mr. Narendra Damodardas Modi became Prime Minister of India in 2014. Ever since he has visited the US nine times. His ninth visit happened from September 21 to September 23, 2024.

    On September 21, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. hosted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in Wilmington, Delaware, for the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit (Courtesy: White House)

    Mr. Modi started his visit with the Quad summit which US President Biden hosted at his Delaware hometown of Wilmington on September 21. At the Quad Summit, the leaders of Australia, India, Japan and USA reviewed the progress achieved by the Quad over the last one year and set the agenda for the year ahead to assist the countries of the Indo-Pacific region in meeting their development goals and aspirations.

    Mr. Modi arriving at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in New York to address the Indian American community on September 22, 2024 (Photo : Jay Mndal – on assignment)

    On September 22, Modi addressed a gathering of the Indian Americans at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in New York. Around 14000 Indian Americans gathered to see and listen to him. The colorful program presented on the occasion included dance performances depicting the rich cultural variety of India. Mr. Modi was lustily cheered on his arrival, and during his address lasting around 50 minutes.

    Mr. Modi addressing on September 23, the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York (Screengrab)

    Mr. Modi also addressed ⁠ on September 23, the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The theme of the Summit was ‘Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow’. A large number of global leaders participated in the Summit. On the sidelines of the Summit, Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with several world leaders and discussed issues of mutual interest.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a roundtable meeting with MIT School of Engineering Tech CEOs, in New York on September 22, 2024. (Credit: PTI)

    Mr. Modi interacted with CEOs of leading US-based companies to foster greater collaborations between the two countries in the cutting-edge areas of AI, quantum computing, semiconductors and biotechnology. He also interacted with thought leaders and other stakeholders active in the India-US bilateral landscape.

    However, of the various events Mr. Modi attended, the most talked about has been his address to the Indian Americans in New York on September 22, 2024. The ace photographer Mr. Jay Mandal photographed the event extensively. We are happy to carry the selected photographs of the event here.

  • Tamim Iqbal questions DRS decision that went in India’s favor

    Tamim Iqbal questions DRS decision that went in India’s favor

    Kanpur (TIP)- Former Bangladesh cricket team captain Tamim Iqbal questioned the DRS decision that led to Shadman Islam’s dismissal on Day 1 of the second Test match against India in Kanpur on Friday, September 27. The dismissal led to a debate between Tamim and former Indian cricketers Ravi Shastri and Dinesh Karthik. The ball-tracking technology decided that it was a dismissal but Tamim was of the opinion that it was sliding down the leg-side. Akash Deep was convinced that it was a dismissal and after the successful review, even Rohit was left stunned. It was a very important wicket for India in that situation but Tamim was not convinced and he raised questions about the DRS technology used in that particular delivery.
    “I thought that was sliding down the leg stump but DRS had other ideas,” Tamim said in commentary.
    Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who was in the commentary box with Tamim, disagreed to his statement and said that the camera angles can sometimes create an illusion.
    “DK spoke about the camera angles. It’s not always absolutely straight, so it can give the impression that it is sliding down. Bounce was never going to be an issue in Kanpur. The Indian team was also surprised. There was only one member who believed it was out and that was Akash Deep,” said Shastri.
    Akash Deep was impressive in a probing opening spell while Ravichandran Ashwin removed the dangerous Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto before rain halted India’s progress in the second Test on the opening day on Friday.
    Given the forecast, it was expected to be a weather-hit contest from the beginning. Only 35 overs could be bowled after Rohit Sharma invited Bangladesh to bat in overcast conditions as visitors struggled to 107 for three after a brief resistance through Shanto (31).
    Mominul Haque (40 batting) and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim (6) were at the crease when heavens opened up.
    Overnight rain had delayed the start of the match by an hour. Heavy overcast conditions influenced India’s team selection as the hosts kept all three pacers from the Chennai Test, which meant that local boy Kuldeep Yadav missed out on another Test match. Akash (2/14 in 10 overs), who bowled round the wicket to the left-handers, consistently hit the good length areas and got the ball to either shape away or come in with the angle.
    Shanto (57 balls, 4×6), though, batted with positive intent, if not combative, to ensure Bangladesh don’t lose way from the start.

  • How India came to dominate the chessboard

    How India came to dominate the chessboard

    Hulunbuir (TIP)- At the felicitation function for the Indian chess contingent, back from the Budapest Olympiad with four individual golds and the team golds, grandmaster Abhijit Kunte had an anecdote to share from his first Olympiad. The year was 1998, and the scene was set in Elista, a city in Russia’s Kalmykia republic.
    “Garry Kasparov was playing in the Elista Olympiad. We used to go before the games started to take his autograph. Kasparov would give autographs only on chess books written by him,” recounts Kunte. “This time, when I went to the Olympiad in Budapest, I saw children running for autographs of our Indian players. We are no more seeking autographs, we are giving them,” said Kunte, captain of the women’s team.
    Over the course of a heady fortnight in Budapest, the axis of the world of chess had tilted decisively — towards India. At this year’s Chess Olympiad in the Hungarian capital, the Indian chess contingent swept the three team gold medals on offer — the ‘Hamilton-Russell Cup’ for the open section, the ‘Vera Menchik Cup’ for the women’s section and the ‘Nona Gaprindashvili Trophy’ for the overall title. To add to those three team golds, there were also four individual golds won by Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agrawal.
    The Indian team in the open section of the Olympiad — a biennial team event where over 180 nations participated — was so dominant that it finished four points ahead of five other teams who ended second, the United States of America, Uzbekistan, China, Serbia and Armenia. At the last Olympiad in Chennai in 2022, the Indian chess contingent came close to winning two gold medals, but stumbled at the final hurdle. But this time, there was no stopping the Indians. “If this success had come in the Chennai Olympiad two years ago, it would have had the sense of a slight accident. A pleasant surprise. At the Budapest Olympiad, very quickly, by the fourth round itself, I had the feeling, ‘which team is going to stop them?’ And we know the answer. They won by a four-point gap,” five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand said at an event in Mumbai.
    On the live world rankings, which are updated in real-time, there are currently three Indians in the top 10 — Gukesh, Arjun and Anand — with Praggnanandhaa just outside. Three Indian men and two women also qualified for the Candidates tournament in April. Held in Toronto this year, the tournament – which accommodates only eight players in each category and is held to find a challenger to the world champion — saw 17-year-old Gukesh becoming the youngest player to qualify for the World Championship.
    After Gukesh won the Candidates, the legendary Garry Kasparov had remarked: “The Indian earthquake in Toronto is the culmination of the shifting tectonic plates in the chess world… The children of Vishy Anand are on the loose.”
    “You can have a lot of trophies but the Olympiad gold is special. It establishes your dominance as a team and as a country,” Indian team captain Srinath Narayanan told The Indian Express.
    Source: The Indian Express

  • Shakib retires from T20Is, says Kanpur Test could be his last

    Shakib retires from T20Is, says Kanpur Test could be his last

    The second Test against India this week could be Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s last in this format if he is denied a home farewell next month, the under-pressure player said in an abrupt announcement. Shakib was a member of parliament for the Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina, whose 15-year rule as prime minister ended in August with her fleeing to India following deadly protests. Shakib is considered the greatest cricketer Bangladesh has produced but his political past places the former captain in a tricky position as an interim government supervises a power transition. Shakib has not been home since protests erupted in July but the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has assured him he will not be harassed on his return.
    “I am available for the South Africa series but since there’s a lot happening back home, naturally not everything depends on me,” Shakib said. “I have discussed my plans about Test cricket with the BCB…” he said while also announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals with immediate effect.

  • Shardiya Navratri: Devoted to nine forms of Goddess Durga

    Shardiya Navratri: Devoted to nine forms of Goddess Durga

    The nine-day Shardiya, or Shrad Navratri, is an important Hindu festival observed across India. It is devoted to the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
    Shardiya Navratri is commemorated in the Hindu month of Ashwin, which often falls between September and October on the Gregorian calendar.
    Out of the four Navratris—Magha (winter), Chaitra (spring), Ashadha (monsoon), and Sharad or Shardiya (autumn), it is regarded as the most significant, which is why it is also known as Maha Navratri. The nine-day Shardiya, also known as Shrad Navratri, occurs in the lunar month of Ashwin during Sharad Ritu, and it concludes on the tenth day with Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami.
    It celebrates the killing of Mahishasura, a demon, by Goddess Durga after a long battle of nine days that culminated on the 10th day as Vijayadashami, which is why she is famously called Mahishasuramardini, or the slayer of Mahishasur.
    Additionally, the 10th day of Navratri is celebrated as Vijayadashami, the day Lord Rama won the battle against Ravana and recovered Goddess Sita.
    This year in 2024, Navratri will start on Thursday, October 2, at 12:18 pm, and conclude on October 4 at 02.58 am. The festival also signifies righteousness and the power of good to triumph over evil, teaching moral values like bravery and virtue.
    People observe fasting during the nine days or on the first two or last two days, while some keep it for all nine days. Starting on the Pratipada of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin, devotees of Goddess Durga fast and worship her for nine days, reciting the Durga Stotra and Durga Chalisa, with a belief that worshipping Durga with devotion will grant wishes.
    Each day of Navratri has a distinct Durga avatar, such as Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, or Chandraghanta. The festival is also considered a harvest festival, praising the Goddess as the motherly power behind life and creation.
    The festival is associated with their symbolic connotation as epitome of courage, wealth and skill respectively. Broadly, on the first three days, devotees venerate Goddess Durga as she represents power in its divine form that removes negativity and proclivity towards immoral behavior. She is, invoked as Kumari, Parvati and Kali which are aspects of Ma Durga and represent her adolescence-to-maturity stage. During the next three days, Goddess Lakshmi blessings for material and spiritual prosperity are sought with puja and powerful mantra chantings. Over the next three days, Goddess Saraswati is invoked to seek blessings for erudition and skills in the arts. The devotee puts books and musical instruments near the deity to acquire true knowledge and wisdom to see him/her through this life and beyond. The ninth day of ‘Mahanavami’ , the concluding day of Navratri puja, is considered an auspicious day for conducting pujas such as ‘Aparajita’ puja and ‘Kanya Puja’. The tenth day celebrates the momentous events associated with Lord Rama as well as Ma Durga, who killed the demon ‘Mahisasura’.
    Rituals of Navratri
    Customs of Navratri which stand out prominently in terms of strict observance include the following:
    On the very first day, barley or ‘jowar’ seeds are sown in a decorated clay pot and by the tenth day, the tender shoots are distributed among the devotees. A photograph or an idol of the eight-armed Goddess seated on a lion, along with the ‘yantra’ is installed.
    ‘Kalash Sthapna’ is done which involves installing a water pot or ‘kalash’, sprinkled with holy water and filled with mango leaves and coconut.The morning ‘puja’ is performed after a bath, and the day-long fast is broken after doing the evening puja.
    During the puja, ‘shankh’ is blown, fresh flowers, ‘doob’ or sacred grass, ‘paan’ and fruits are offered to the deity, chapters from the sacred ‘Durga Saptshati’ and ‘Chandipath’ are recited, followed by ‘arti’ and prasad distribution.A very significant ritual is performing ‘Kanya Puja’ on ‘Ashtami’ and ‘Navami’, which involves worshipping nine young girls, in pre-puberty stage, representing the nine forms of goddess Durga. Each girl is treated to a meal comprising puri, sweet bread, halwa, a sweet dish, made of semolina and Bengal gram curry. After washing their feet, the devotees break their fast.
    Ayudha or Astra Puja is held on the eighth/ninth day. Tools, vehicles and equipments are worshipped on this day. Among some communities, it is also considered an auspicious time to initiate learning for children by invoking Goddess Saraswati. Hence, Lalita-puja and Saraswati-puja is done ritualistically to start formal education of children.A Garba performance precedes ‘aarti’ conducted in honor of Maa Durga.Fasting or ‘vrat’ from sunrise till sunset is undertaken for night days.In the Navratri Hindu festival, the devotee should observe abstinence and austerity. On the eight day, a ‘yagna’ is performed with offerings of ghee and til for mental and spiritual cleansing.
    Lemon or bhasma or ash is used for cleaning substances for ‘abhishek’.In Gujarat, a garbh-deep or a lamp is lit within an earthen pot with several perforations representing the unison of body and soul.
    Customs of Navratri
    Since all the nine days are dedicated to different incarnations of Ma Durga, it is customary to wear colors that symbolize the qualities of the deity. The first day venerates Shailputri Devi who embodies aspects of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. On this day, red clothes are worn. The second day is dedicated to Brahmacharini Devi who represents a life of abstinence. Wearing blue colored clothes is considered auspicious on this day. On the third day, Chandraghanta Devi, the bestower of glory and beauty, is invoked. On the fourth day, Kushmanda Devi is worshipped and yellow is the color to honor her. The fifth day is in honor of Skandmata Devi. Grey is the color to be worn on the sixth day and is dedicated to Katyayani Devi, while orange is the color for protection symbolized by Kalratri Devi on the seventh day. On the eighth day, pink clothes are worn to honor Mahagauri Devi. The ninth day is dedicated to Siddhidatri Devi, whose blessings earn devotees all ‘siddhis’.
    On all these nine days, devotees should meditate on the different forms of Ma Durga and seek her grace.

  • Mysore: The royal city

    Mysore: The royal city

    Mysore, now officially known as Mysuru, is a small city tucked in the foothills of the western ghats in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is a city of royal heritage and rich culture as it served as the capital of the Mysore Kingdom for almost 6 centuries under the Wodeyar Dynasty. It still maintains a royal feel and atmosphere and is ideal for a weekend getaway. Contrasting to Bangalore, the busiest metropolitan city in Karnataka, in Mysore life is slow paced. It is an epitome of peace, great weather, and humble people. The primary language spoken here is Kannada but most people also speak Hindi and English. The city is small and can be easily covered over a weekend. Nearby places like Srirangapatna, Bandipur, Madikeri, Wayanad etc. are also as mesmerizing and great for road trips.
    The best time to visit Mysore is throughout the year but September to January is perfect for sightseeing. The weather is pleasant throughout the year except for three months of summer from February to April when the temperatures soar up to 29-30 degree Celsius. The nearest airport is in Bangalore, from there direct buses ply to Mysore. You can also drive down from Banglore or take the train to reach Mysore within 3 hours.
    Sri Chamundeshwari Temple
    It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, overlooking the city of Mysore situated at an elevation of about 900 feet from sea level. It is the main temple of Karnataka called the Naada Devathe ( State Goddess). Among the many festivals celebrated here, Navratri or Mysore Dasara is the most grandly celebrated festival in the month of September-October by decorating the goddess in 9 ways to depict the 9 different aspects of the Goddess. It’s one of the oldest temples in Mysore and one among the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. During Dasara, the whole city lights up and twinkles like a crown jewel. Food Melas, exhibitions and the royal procession of the idol of the Goddess in a Gold Mantapa consorted by the majestic elephants and horses on the streets of Mysore are the main attractions during the festival. Nearby you can also see the Lakshminarayana Temple and Jwalamuki Thirupurasundari Temple.
    The Mysuru Palace
    It is located in the center of the city facing the Chamundi Hill. It’s a historical heritage and the seat of the royal kingdom of Mysore. It is a three-story stone structure with Marble domes. Its unique architecture is what attracts the tourists to this Palace. During the day tourists are allowed to enter a part of the Palace and the gardens. At night the whole Palace and its three gateways light up for about an hour making it the most beautiful sight in Mysore.
    The Mysuru Zoo
    The Mysore zoo is a 4 km walk and a nice place to spend a day with kids. It has various animals and birds most fascinating of them being the White Peacock, the Royal Bengal tiger, Ostriches, and Owls. It’s a plastic-free zone with a small eatery inside. Best time to visit is early in the morning as soon as it opens at 8:30 am. It is closed on Tuesdays!
    Karanji Lake
    Just beside the zoo is a small lake surrounded by lush greenery called the Karanji Lake. Boating is allowed in the lake and there is a walk-through aviary where you can see birds of various kinds and a butterfly park. The lush green nature park with a lake view makes it an ideal location to spend the day relaxing in natures lap.
    Ranganathittoo Bird Sanctuary
    This bird sanctuary is located 16 km from Mysore in the Mandya district. It comprises of islets on the banks of the Kaveri river. You can enjoy a variety of flora and fauna here. Roughly 170 species of birds are found here including the painted stork,black-headed ibis, spoonbill, pelican, egret, Asian open bill stork, etc. Boating is available throughout the day where you can spot, up close, crocodiles basking in the sun on the rocks or swimming beside you. Best time to visit is June to November.
    Brindavan Gardens
    Situated on the KRS dam road, this is the second most famous place in Mysore after the Palace. This garden lies adjoining the Krishnarajasagara Dam across the river Kaveri. This terraced garden was built in 1927 – 1932 spread across 60 acres speckled with trees, fountains and colorful ornamentation. The main attraction is the light and sound show which starts at 7 pm.
    St. Philomena’s Cathedral
    It is a beautiful Catholic church constructed in 1936 inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. It is Asia’s second largest church with twin spires of about 175 feet. It has stained glass windows depicting scenes from the bible and can seat p to 800 people in the main hall.

  • September 27 New York & Dallas E – Edition

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  • Rs 525-crore bank fraud case against Cox and Kings

    The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case of alleged Rs 525-crore bank loan fraud against the promoters and directors of Cox and Kings. The case was registered on the basis of a complaint by Yes Bank. The lender has complained that the travel company submitted manipulated records to get credit facilities from them.
    The case has been taken over by the CBI from the Mumbai Police that was earlier probing the matter against Cox and Kings, its promoters and directors Ajay Ajit Peter Kerkar and Usha Kerkar, CFO Anil Khandelwal and directors Mahalinga Narayanan and Pesi Patel. The central probe agency has registered the case on a reference from the Maharashtra government routed through the Centre against all individuals under IPC sections related to cheating, forgery and criminal misconduct in addition to provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

  • India pips Japan in Asia power index, ranks third

    India ranks third in the annual Asia Power Index, released by an Australian think-tank, surpassing Japan on the back of strong post-COVID 19 economic growth, while China’s power appeared to plateau just below the United States.
    The Sydney-based Lowy Institute has put the US at the top of its Asia Power Index with a score of 81.7, followed by China with a score of 72.7, India (39.1), Japan (38.9), Australia (31.9) and Russia (31.1).
    The Index ranks 27 countries and territories in terms of their capacity to shape their external environment — its scope reaching as far west as Pakistan, as far north as Russia and as far into the Pacific as Australia, New Zealand and the US. The index has cited economic growth, future potential and diplomatic influence as key factors for India’s rise. However, it has pointed out that New Delhi’s clout remains below the potential promised by its resources. “India has shown remarkable post-pandemic economic recovery, contributing to a 4.2-point rise in its economic capability. India’s massive population and strong GDP growth reinforce its standing as the world’s third-largest economy in PPP terms,” the think tank has said.

  • Global debt hits record $312 trillion, with climate finance a challenge: IIF

    Global debt hits record $312 trillion, with climate finance a challenge: IIF

    New York (TIP)- Global debt hit a record high of $312 trillion at the end of the second quarter, driven by borrowing in the United States and China, data from a banking trade group showed.
    The Institute of International Finance (IIF), a financial services trade group, said on Wednesday that global debt rose by $$2.1 trillion in the first half to $312 trillion. That marked a new high point after previous data was revised lower.
    The IIF cautioned about the trend of ever-increasing government borrowing in its latest Global Debt Monitor report. It forecast that global government borrowing would rise from its current level of $92 trillion to $145 trillion by 2030, and would top $440 trillion by 2050.
    “With the Fed’s new easing cycle expected to accelerate the pace of global debt buildup, a significant concern is the apparent lack of political will to address rising sovereign debt levels in both mature and emerging market economies,” the IIF report said.
    A big chunk of the borrowing was driven by energy transition in the face of climate change, which was expected to account for over one-third of the projected rise by 2050.
    “This poses significant challenges, as many governments are already allocating a growing share of their revenue to interest expenses,” the report said.
    Big country, big borrower
    The $2.1 trillion increase this year through June compares with $8.4 trillion in the first half of 2023, per IIF data. Beyond China and the US, India, Russia and Sweden also increased their debt. Other European countries and Japan saw a notable decline, the report said.
    The global debt-to-GDP ratio — an indicator of the ability to repay debt by comparing to what is being produced — has stabilized around 328%, with output numbers partly buoyed by above-target inflation in major economies.
    In developed markets, that ratio reached its lowest level since 2018 driven by declines in household and non-financial corporate sectors borrowing.
    In contrast, emerging markets saw their debt ratio reach a new high of over 245% of output, more than 25 percentage points higher than before the COVID-related lockdowns.
    Source: Reuters

  • Sensex, Nifty hit record high for 6th straight session

    Sensex, Nifty hit record high for 6th straight session

    New Delhi (TIP)- Benchmark stock market indices continued their upward tick to hit a record high for the sixth session led by a rally in IT stocks.
    The S&P BSE Sensex added 67.47 points to 85,903.59, while the NSE Nifty50 gained 14.70 points to 26,230.75 as of 9:25 AM.
    Infosys topped the list of Nifty50 gainers, rising by 2.58%, with Hindalco Industries close behind, gaining 2.53%. Wipro also saw a strong performance, increasing by 2.50%. Larsen & Toubro Infotech (LTI) and Tech Mahindra recorded gains of 2.17% and 2.15%, respectively.
    On the losing side, Power Grid Corporation took the biggest hit, dropping 2.64%. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) experienced a decline of 2.53%, while Bharti Airtel fell by 1.96%. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) slipped by 1.24%, and Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) ended the day down 0.71%. Dr. V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services said that an important trend emerging in the market is the clear outperformance of largecaps over mid and small caps.
    “The outperformance has been pronounced during the last five trading days which saw Nifty appreciate by 2.85% against a mere 0.6% up move in the small cap index. This is a healthy trend which can impart resilience to the market and, given the gush of domestic liquidity, take it higher. It appears that smart money is moving from mid and small caps to largecaps,” he added. Several sectors recorded gains, with Nifty IT leading the pack, rising by 1.79%. Nifty Metal followed closely, increasing by 1.37%. Nifty Consumer Durables saw a solid rise of 0.64%, while Nifty Pharma advanced by 0.52%. Other sectors that performed well included Nifty PSU Bank, up by 0.51%, Nifty Healthcare Index, which gained 0.41%, Nifty Oil & Gas with a rise of 0.35%, Nifty Auto up by 0.25%, and Nifty FMCG, edging higher by 0.18%.
    While some sectors experienced losses. Nifty Realty had the sharpest decline, falling by 0.77%. Nifty Media also dropped by 0.39%. The financial services sector showed some weakness as well, with Nifty Financial Services down by 0.24% and Nifty Financial Services 25/50 slipping by 0.04%. Nifty Bank fell by 0.14%, while Nifty Private Bank edged lower by 0.01%. Nifty Midsmall Healthcare also declined by 0.18%.

  • Astronomers see inflated planet outside solar system

    Astronomers see inflated planet outside solar system

    Astronomers from the University of Arizona, alongside an international research team, have used NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to observe the atmosphere of the exoplanet WASP-107b, revealing groundbreaking findings about its atmospheric asymmetry.
    This hot, inflated planet, similar in size to Jupiter but only a tenth of its mass, exhibits significant east-west asymmetry, making it a unique discovery in the study of exoplanets.
    The study, led by graduate student Matthew Murphy from the University of Arizona’s Steward Observatory, was published in Nature Astronomy. It marks the first time such asymmetry has been observed in an exoplanet during its transit — when it passes in front of its star — using space-based observation.
    WASP-107b is tidally locked, meaning one side of the planet perpetually faces its host star, while the other remains in permanent darkness. This configuration results in dramatic differences in atmospheric conditions between the planet’s day side and night side.
    The JWST allowed Murphy’s team to observe these differences using transmission spectroscopy, a technique that analyzes light passing through a planet’s atmosphere to determine its composition, structure, and other characteristics.
    “Thanks to the unprecedented precision of the James Webb Space Telescope, we were able to separate the signals from the eastern and western hemispheres of the planet’s atmosphere, providing a clearer picture of its dynamics,” Murphy explained.
    The findings have offered new insights into the atmosphere’s gases, cloud formations, and the impact of varying sunlight exposure on each side of the planet.
    WASP-107b is particularly unique because of its low density, making its atmosphere more inflated compared to other exoplanets of similar mass. Despite its extreme temperature of 890°F, WASP-107b occupies a middle ground between the planets in our solar system and the hottest exoplanets discovered.
    “This discovery has opened new doors,” Murphy said. “Our models didn’t predict such an asymmetry for a planet like this, so we’re already learning new things.”

  • Astronomers detected biggest black hole jets ever seen

    The largest known black hole jets, 23 million light years across, have been discovered in the distant universe. This pair of particle beams launched by a supermassive black hole is over a hundred times larger than our galaxy, the Milky Way. In 2022, we announced the discovery of one of the largest black hole jets in the night sky, launched from a (relatively) nearby galaxy called NGC2663. Using CSIRO’s Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) in Western Australia, we confirmed that NGC2663’s jet is one of the largest in the sky. In other words, it appears to be the largest when viewed from Earth.
    The new jet, announced in the journal Nature, has been dubbed “Porphyrion” (a giant in Greek mythology) by its discoverers at the California Institute of Technology in the United States. It dwarfs NGC2663’s jet in actual size and is over 20 times larger – a true colossus.
    Porphyrion can tell us more about the great ecosystem of matter flowing inside and outside of galaxies. But this jet also has us scratching our heads: how can something 23 million light years across be almost perfectly straight?
    Seeing invisible light
    Porphyrion was discovered by astronomers using the International LOFAR Telescope, a network of radio sensors centred in the Netherlands, and stretching from Sweden to Bulgaria, and from Ireland to Latvia. Radio telescopes like ASKAP and LOFAR can see light that is invisible to our eyes: radio waves.
    What launches the jet in the first place? At the centre of the jet, researchers see a galaxy, and at the centre of the galaxy, they find evidence of a supermassive black hole.
    As matter is pulled towards the black hole, various fates await. Some matter is eaten entirely. Some orbits around the black hole, forming a disk. And some of it becomes twisted and tangled in intense magnetic fields, until it is released into two opposing jets, blasting at almost the speed of light. We’ve seen black hole jets before, even ones that stretch many millions of light years. What’s striking about Porphyrion is that it looks almost perfectly straight. There are plenty of curvy, angled jets out there, including one seen by ASKAP that was dubbed “The Dancing Ghosts”.
    Puzzlingly straight
    Many processes can add a kink to a jet: an obstacle such as a dense cloud, a change in the orientation of the black hole, strong magnetic fields, intergalactic “wind” as the host galaxy falls into a larger cosmic structure.
    Porphyrion, by contrast, seems to have been happily powering its way through the cosmos for about 2 billion years, unperturbed.
    This is puzzling for two reasons. First, it isn’t from around here. Its light has travelled for about 7 billion years to arrive on Earth. We’re seeing Porphyrion as it was about 6 billion years after the Big Bang.
    As with all astronomical objects, we’re seeing it in the past, when the universe was more dense (remember: the universe is expanding). But a busy environment is the enemy of a straight jet.
    Second, a jet that maintains consistent power for 2 billion years requires a steady stream of food. But that implies a rich local environment, full of goodies (interstellar gas) ready to eat. This presents a paradox, because – again – a busy environment is the enemy of a straight jet.
    As the researchers conclude, “how jets can retain such long-lived coherence is unknown at present”. Maybe Porphyrion got lucky, threading its jet through a quiet alley of intergalactic space. Maybe there’s something about this jet that helps it maintain its focus. We don’t know. But we can think of ways to find out. Observers will explore the environment of this jet with further observations across the spectrum.
    Radio astronomers are using telescopes like ASKAP and LOFAR to find more jets, so we can distinguish the typical from the flukey. Meanwhile, astrophysicists are using supercomputer simulations of jets to figure out what launches them, what can bend them, and under what conditions.
    Objects like Porphyrion aren’t mere cosmic oddities. They are integral to the ecosystem of matter that shapes our cosmic environment. Intergalactic matter feeds into galaxies, galaxies make stars, some galaxies even make black holes, black holes create a jet, the jet affects the intergalactic matter, and around we go.

  • Truecaller introduces auto-block spam feature for iPhone

    Truecaller introduces auto-block spam feature for iPhone

    Truecaller has introduced a new feature called Auto-Block Spam, specifically for iPhone users, aimed at improving the way unwanted calls are handled. This feature takes Truecaller’s existing spam-blocking capabilities to a new level by allowing users to automatically block calls from known spammers, fraudsters, or telemarketers without having to manually reject them. The new Auto-Block Spam feature is designed to block these calls before they even ring on your phone, reducing interruptions and making it easier for iPhone users to focus on their day. This upgrade promises a seamless, stress-free experience for those tired of constant spam calls.
    The Auto-Block Spam feature is an upgrade to Truecaller’s existing capabilities. While Truecaller has always helped identify unknown callers, this new feature takes things a step further by proactively blocking spam calls before they reach you. Users can choose between two levels of protection: –Block Top Spammers: This setting blocks only the worst offenders, such as repeat scammers or fraudsters.
    –Block All Spammers: For users seeking a completely spam-free experience, this option blocks all numbers flagged as spam by Truecaller. However, it’s important to note that legitimate calls could also be blocked.

  • Triptan drugs found to be more effective against migraines than newer ones

    Triptan drugs found to be more effective against migraines than newer ones

    Triptan class of drugs are more effective in treating migraine headaches, compared to newer and more expensive drugs, an analysis of nearly 140 clinical trials, involving about 90,000 participants, has suggested.
    The analysis, published in The British Medical Journal, showed that eletriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan were better in relieving pain than the relatively recently developed drugs—lasmiditan, rimegepant, and ubrogepant. All these drugs are marketed in India.
    Commercially available since the 1990s, triptan drugs work by changing how blood is circulated in brain and by silencing overactive pain nerves, they change how pain is processed.
    While numerous antimigraine drugs are available, researchers, including those from Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark, said that there is clear consensus as to which performs best in treating the neurological condition affecting more than a billion around the world. It is also the leading cause of disability or poor health in girls and women aged 15-49 years. The researchers said that triptans are widely underused and added that they should be “considered the treatment of choice for migraine episodes, owing to their capacity for inducing rapid and sustained pain freedom.” While some of the triptan class of drugs have been studied to lower menstrual migraines too, which can be more severe and last longer than non-menstrual migraines, women should be cautious and avoid overuse, according to the American Migraine Foundation.
    The authors called for an improved access to triptan drugs worldwide by including them into the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, along with updating international clinical guidelines for diagnosing and managing migraines. Source: PTI

  • Listening to loud music can lead to hearing disorders in young people

    Listening to loud music can lead to hearing disorders in young people

    The widespread use of earphones and headphones, especially among younger generations, is becoming a serious public health concern. With many young individuals frequently exposed to loud music for extended periods, the risk of developing noise-induced hearing disorders is on the rise. What was once considered an issue for older populations has now begun affecting people in their teens and twenties, with long-term consequences that are often irreversible. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when the hair cells within the cochlea, a structure in the inner ear, are damaged by excessive sound.
    According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults worldwide are at risk of hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices. This includes exposure to loud music through earphones, especially when used for prolonged periods at high volumes.
    “Short-term issues caused by using earphones include excessive earwax build-up that can extend deep into the ear canal, leading to infections and earaches. The tight fit of earphones may also cause discomfort, pain, and itching. In more acute cases, loud music can result in a Temporary Threshold Shift, causing temporary hearing loss,” said Dr Amit Kumar Sharma, HOD & Senior Consultant, ENT, Cochlear Implant & Voice Disorders, SHALBY Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram.
    One of the most significant contributors to NIHL in younger populations is the volume at which music is played.
    Studies have shown that many young people listen to music at volumes exceeding 85 decibels (dB), the threshold at which damage to hearing can occur. Regular exposure to sound levels above 85 dB can lead to permanent hearing damage.
    Alarmingly, some earphones can produce sounds as loud as 100 to 110 dB, levels that can cause hearing damage in just a few minutes of exposure.
    Dr Sharma said that the long-term use of earphones, especially at high volumes, can result in permanent hearing impairment.
    “Patients may also experience tinnitus, a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears, and hyperacusis, an increased sensitivity to everyday sounds. Poor earphone hygiene increases the risk of fungal ear infections, such as otomycosis. Prolonged listening can also cause hearing fatigue, reducing overall hearing sensitivity,” the expert said.

  • 1 in 3 children, teens globally affected by short-sightedness

    1 in 3 children, teens globally affected by short-sightedness

    About a third of children and teens around the world are short-sighted, with cases estimated to touch 74 crore by 2050, according to a study that analysed available evidence.
    Short-sightedness, or myopia, is a common condition of the vision in which one has trouble seeing distant objects clearly. It usually develops in early childhood and tends to worsen with age. Researchers from Sun Yat-Sen University in China looked at 276 studies, published up to June 2023. Over 54 lakh participants aged 5-19 years and 19 lakh cases of short-sightedness from 50 countries, including those in Asia and Africa, were analysed.
    Cases of short-sightedness rose from 24 per cent during 1990-2000 to 25 per cent during 2001-10, followed by sharper increases of 30 per cent between 2011-19, and 36 per cent between 2020-23, which is roughly the same as one in every three children and teens, the team said.
    “The global prevalence of childhood myopia is substantial, affecting approximately one-third of children and adolescents, with notable variations in prevalence across different demographic groups,” the authors wrote.
    They advised more physical activity and less screen time for all children and teens.
    Between 1990 and 2023, prevalence was found to have more than tripled and low- and middle-income countries were significantly affected more compared to high-income ones.
    Further, being female, east Asian, or living in urban environments were found to be key factors influencing prevalence.
    “… individuals residing in East Asia (35.22 per cent) or in urban areas (28.55 per cent), female gender (33.57 per cent), adolescents (47 per cent), and high school students (45.71 per cent) exhibit a higher proportion of myopia prevalence,” the authors wrote in the study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.
    The researchers observed a correlation between the duration of education in East Asian countries and cases of myopia, which they said could explain geographical differences in prevalence. “… a correlation between the duration of education and the occurrence of myopia has been observed, suggesting that the early implementation of formal education in certain East Asian nations could potentially serve as a contributing element,” they wrote.
    Conversely, in African countries, the researchers noted a lower prevalence of short-sightedness, likely related to lower literacy levels and a delayed start of formal education, they said.
    Attaining puberty before boys and tending to spend lesser time outdoors could be possible reasons why girls are affected more by short-sightedness, the researchers suggested.
    “According to our projections, there is an anticipated 9 per cent rise in the overall prevalence of myopia between 2023 and 2050, which will lead to a substantial burden of ocular disease, affecting more than 74,05,92,000 children and adolescents,” they wrote.

  • Paneer Chaman

    Ingredients
    500 gm paneer, 40 gm crushed coriander leaves, 40 gm garlic paste, 2 de seeded green chilli, 1 teaspoon thymol seeds, 3 clove, 1 teaspoon, turmeric, 150 gm fresh cream, 40 gm crushed to paste mint leaves, 30 gm ginger paste, 150 gm sliced onion, 50 gm ghee, 1/2 cup beaten yoghurt (curd)
    Method
    n Heat ghee in a deep-bottomed pan. Deep fry the paneer pieces and keep aside. They should be lightly golden in color and not completely browned. In the remaining ghee, add ajwain (thymol seeds), clove and allow them to splutter. Now add onions and cook on low flame till the oil separates. Add turmeric, coriander, salt and green chilies at this point.
    n When the onions are almost cooked, add ginger-garlic paste, mint and cook for 2-3 minutes more. Once the raw smell of the spices disappear, add beaten curd. Once the curd is partially absorbed, add the paneer and cream. Mix well and garnish with coriander leaves/mint leaves or kasoori methi. The gravy should neither be too thick nor too thin, so you can accordingly adjust the amount of water. In fact you can even use some milk to make the gravy richer. Serve hot.

  • Get rid of smelly armpits

    Get rid of smelly armpits

    Body odor is normal, but smelly armpits can sometimes get out of hands. Even regular baths, good amount of perfumes can’t seem to solve this issue. We all know that that the underarm odour can be embarrassing. To solve this discomforting issue, we have listed 6 ways you can get rid of smelly armpits.
    Anti-bacteria body wash
    It’s the bacteria that smells and not the perspiration. Look for body washes with Benzoyl Peroxide, which can help to reduce bacteria and prevent the body odour.
    Apple cider vinegar
    You can also apply some apple cider vinegar to fight off the bacteria. It will help to reduce the odour by balancing the pH level of the skin. Don’t worry about the smell of apple cider vinegar, as it fades out when dry. Avoid this hack on days you have recently shaved or waxed.
    Always dry before applying anything
    Not drying properly before applying antiperspirant or deodorant can also trigger the bad odour. Make sure you dry yourself properly before applying the stick.
    Try a different brand
    A lot of times, a specific deodorant or antiperspirant doesn’t blend with our skin. If you feel that your stick or spray is not making the cut, then you must change your brand or product.
    Sometimes the chemistry of your skin and fragrance doesn’t work and makes you smell bad instead.
    Hand sanitizer
    If you have don’t have an antiperspirant or deodorant handy, you can use a hand sanitizer for a quick hack. This germ-fighting solution can help to tame bad odour. However, if you have recently shaved or waxed, you should avoid this hack as it can burn.
    Apply antiperspirant at night
    The antiperspirant stick is applied under the arms to reduce sweating. Applying this stick at night, makes it even more effective. As we are less active at night, this gives the product more time to work.

  • Make nourishing hair pack at home

    Make nourishing hair pack at home

    Our hair needs love and care for it to stay healthy and luscious. While we take enough measures to protect our skin, when it comes to our mane, we usually follow the simple oil, shampoo, condition routine. However, if you want well-nourished healthy hair, you need to take an extra effort to maintain your locks. Every day, our hair attracts dirt, dust, pollutants and more and not all of us wash it off every day. This means, these settle on our scalp and not just irritate it but also prevents healthy hair growth. In order to keep our locks looking good, we need to nourish them with hair packs that deeply condition them and leave our hair feeling soft and healthy. Hair packs can be easily made at home without much effort and can do wonders for your hair. These packs are made using natural ingredients that are easily available and are not very expensive either. We list here one simple hair pack that you can try at home and see the results within a few weeks.
    Banana and honey nourishing hair pack
    Banana is a fruit packed with vitamins as well as potassium and is good for health and also your hair. Honey has anti-bacterial as well as nourishing properties that work well on the scalp as well as the strands. To make this pack, take one ripe or even overripe banana of a standard size. Cut it into slices and put it in a bowl. Now using a spoon or your fingers, mash these slices till you get a paste-like consistency. Add a spoonful of honey to the banana mash and mix the two well. If you have long hair, you may need half a banana more to cover all the strands. Now using your fingers, apply this pack on your hair and scalp. Once you are done, you can tie your hair in a bun and then wear a shower cap to cover your hair. Leave this hair pack on for 15-20 minutes so that it thoroughly nourishes the hair. Now, wash your hair with lukewarm water and make sure you get the pack off. You don’t really need a shampoo unless you feel your hair is sticky. But use a mild one or dilute your existing shampoo in water and then wash it off. Once done, let your hair dry naturally in the air. You will find that the texture has become soft and silky and the volume is also thick. The honey and banana pack works on all hair types so you make sure you nourish your hair with it at least once every week.
    For silky hair
    Mix in 2 teaspoons of neem powder and 2 teaspoons of gram flour into a smooth paste and apply generously onto your hair and scalp. Let it dry for around 30 minutes and wash off.
    While the gram flour will cleanse your scalp, the neem will have innumerable benefits that include shiny tresses and a dandruff free scalp. Repeat his twice a week and you will notice a silky, shiny change in your tresses too.
    For damage free hair
    For unruly hair that is unhealthy and damaged this pack comes in handy to do some damage control. Mix in curd, lemon and mustard oil to make a hair pack and let it dry, then wash off with water. Now heat some hibiscus leaves in water and bring to boil. Squeeze a lemon into it and apply it onto your hair. Leave it for around 20 minutes and again wash it off with a mild shampoo.
    For an oil free scalp
    For a clean, oil free scalp mix in two egg yolks, an egg white, lemon juice and a few drops of honey. Generously apply it onto your hair, let dry and wash off with a deep cleansing shampoo. This should leave your scalp oil free and hair supple.
    To prevent hair fall
    To curb hair fall you need to enhance the blood circulation to your scalp which in turn will improve the growth of hair. For this, boil coconut oil with a few dry amla pieces, apply it onto your hair twice a week and you will already be on the road to repair for your hair. You can also soak shikakai, amla and reetha in hot water overnight. Next morning crush the ingredients and wash your hair with it.
    For straight and frizz free hair
    Mix in equal quantities of vinegar and honey in a cup of hot water and let it stand still for a few minutes. Then apply it onto your hair, leave it on for a few minutes and wash off with a mild shampoo. This should straighten out the monsoon frizz and deep condition your hair.

  • Disney set to begin Oscar campaign for Deadpool & Wolverine

    Disney set to begin Oscar campaign for Deadpool & Wolverine

    Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine received immense love worldwide. The 2024 American superhero film based on Marvel Comics, featuring the characters Deadpool and Wolverine, is vying for Oscar recognition. The movie was a blockbuster hit, becoming the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time. It grossed over 1 billion USD globally and even helped Marvel Studios reach over 30 billion USD in the global box office.
    Now, Disney is eying on adding some more awards gold to the film’s success. It is all set to replicate the success of the 2016 original. Disney is determined to push the Superhero film with major awards groups. As per a report by Variety, Reynolds’ performance as Deadpool will be submitted to the comedy category. Alongside it, Jackman’s performance in the Supporting Actor category, Golden Globes’ Cinematic and Box Office Achievement category, and other technical categories like production design, sound, and visual effects, have been filled in the nominations list for the Oscars. Variety claimed that Deadpool & Wolverine almost have a guaranteed spot in the Golden Globes’ recently-introduced Cinematic and Box Office Achievement category as it celebrated the year’s most critically acclaimed and highest-grossing films.
    Earlier, in an Instagram post, Reynolds urged the academy to introduce stunt categories at the Oscars. After Deadpool & Wolverine triumphed over other MCU films, Reynolds shared a couple of pictures with the stunt performers from the film and mentioned that the academy is long due with a category specially for the stunts in movies. “Stunt work doesn’t have a category at The Oscars, and I hope that’ll change someday. So many films SMASHED it this year… Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Chaplin were stunt performers as well as filmmakers. Telling stories with their entire bodies,” he mentioned.
    The actor then made a special mention to the entire stunt team of his film and added, “The #DeadpoolAndWolverine stunt team over-delivered. Many are friends I’ve worked with for years, and I’ll spend the rest of my days doodling their names in my Heidi Stationary, dotting all the “i’s” with little hearts.” He also lauded his team members for their impeccable talents and gave a shoutout to his body double, Alex Kyshkovych, with whom he has been working since the first Deadpool film. “He (Alex Kyshkovych) not only doubles me — he’s the Fight Coordinator. I’d take a sledgehammer to the face for Alex. Or rather, I’d ask Alex to take a sledgehammer to the face for Alex,” the actor continued.
    Apart from the two lead casts, Deadpool & Wolverine includes Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Aaron Stanford and Matthew Macfadyen. The film will be released on digital platforms, including Prime Video and Apple TV+, starting October 1. It will also come to 4K Blu-ray and DVD on October 22.

  • Reese Witherspoon confirms production of Legally Blonde prequel

    Reese Witherspoon confirms production of Legally Blonde prequel

    Actor Reese Witherspoon, who brought the beloved character Elle Woods to life in the 2001 classic Legally Blonde, has announced an exciting development for fans of the franchise: an open casting call for a prequel series focussing on Elle’s teenage years. In a video posted to Instagram, Reese expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I can’t wait to tell you that we are starting the casting process, and we are making it open. Yes, that is right. This is an open casting for the young Elle Woods when she was in high school.” She encouraged aspiring actors, saying, “I cannot wait to see all the Elle Woods’ out there. This is gonna be really fun!”
    The Oscar-winning actor confirmed that her production company, Hello Sunshine, will be at the helm of this new series for Prime Video. A press release accompanying the announcement, obtained by People magazine, describes Elle as “a driven, natural-born leader who will always stop to straighten another woman’s crown”. The series promises to capture her vibrant personality, highlighting her confidence and vulnerability as she navigates her first love and heartbreak during the 1990s.
    Reese first portrayed Elle Woods in the original Legally Blonde, which grossed over $141 million globally. She reprised the role in Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde, and produced the 2009 spin-off, Legally Blondes.
    Based on Amanda Brown’s 2001 novel of the same name, Legally Blonde was released in theatres on July 13, 2001, and was followed by a sequel titled Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde, two years later.
    Luke Wilson told People magazine last month that he’d be fully on board for the upcoming Legally Blonde 3, which was first confirmed back in 2018. When asked if he’d want to reprise his role as Emmett, Luke said, “Yeah. I’m always up to work with Reese again.”

  • Jeremy Allen White, Molly Gordon dating IRL?

    Jeremy Allen White, Molly Gordon dating IRL?

    Is love in the air for Chef and Claire Bear again – but this time for real? Jeremy Allen White and his The Bear costar Molly Gordon, who played love interests in the award-winning FX series, packed in major PDA. Paparazzi shots also snapped them possibly house-hunting in Los Angeles last Friday, September 20.
    As reported by several US media outlets and seen in pictures obtained by PEOPLE, things seem to be heating up between the onscreen lovers. Contrary to their dysfunctional relationship in the hit series is seeing a major update in real life.
    Days before they were seen wrapping their arms around each other and sharing a kiss, the casually dressed actors were purportedly spotted on a house-hunting trip. Pictures shared by Page Six show them hopping into a white Toyota Rav 4 on September 20 outside a home that didn’t belong to them. A closer look reveals the 33-year-old star getting behind the wheel with what appears to be a flyer for the residence.

  • Manoj Bajpayee: Directors couldn’t think of me as a rich, high-society guy

    Manoj Bajpayee: Directors couldn’t think of me as a rich, high-society guy

    Manoj Bajpayee, known for his stellar performances in films and shows like The Family Man and Gangs of Wasseypur, has made a name for himself as one of India’s most talented actors.
    However, despite his versatility, the actor admits that he has often been stereotyped into playing middle-class or lower-middle-class roles. This typecasting, according to him, has limited the kinds of characters he is offered, especially those from affluent backgrounds.
    In a recent interview with Bombay Times, Manoj spoke candidly about how filmmakers view him and how it has affected the roles he gets. “I am mostly cast in middle-class or lower-middle-class stories,” he shared. “Filmmakers struggle to cast me as a rich guy.” Despite his range, this perception of him as only suited to certain types of roles has followed him throughout his career.
    Bajpayee revealed that Zubeidaa (2001), directed by Shyam Benegal, was one of the very few films where he got the chance to play a wealthy character.
    He described how Benegal’s confidence in casting him as a maharaja stemmed from his belief that royals did not always have to fit the stereotype of “Greek gods” but could look like ordinary people. “Shyam Benegal didn’t hesitate to cast me as a rich man,” Bajpayee said. “He knew real maharajas didn’t need to fit into a conventional mould.”
    Similarly, in Veer Zaara (2004), Bajpayee played a Pakistani politician in a small but memorable role. Director Yash Chopra insisted that Manoj take on the part after being impressed by his performance in Pinjar (2003).
    These rare instances were exceptions, as Manoj explained that most other filmmakers have been hesitant to break free from the middle-class image they have of him.
    “Bakiyonko mujhe rich dikhaane mein dikkat hoti hai,” Bajpayee joked, acknowledging how directors struggle to see him as part of the high society. He emphasised that while two legendary directors like Shyam Benegal and Yash Chopra could envision him in different types of roles, many others couldn’t. “No director could think of me as a rich guy, barring these two stalwarts,” he added, highlighting how stereotyping still exists in the industry.

  • Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ is India’s official submission to Oscars 2025

    Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ is India’s official submission to Oscars 2025

    Kiran Rao’s piquant Laapataa Ladies has been selected as India’s official submission to Oscars 2025. The announcement was made by the jury of the Film Federation of India (FFI), the apex body that annually selects the Indian official entry for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, on Monday, September 23.
    Released in theatres in March, Laapataa Ladies is Rao’s sophomore directorial after the acclaimed Dhobi Ghat (2011). The satirical comedy-drama tells the story of a young man whose bride gets accidentally swapped with someone else’s. The film stars Sparsh Shrivastava along with Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan. It is based on Biplab Goswami’s prize-winning screenplay, Two Brides.
    In its citation, the FFI jury said, “Indian women are a strange mixture of submission and dominance. Well-defined, powerful characters in one world, Laapataa Ladies (Hindi) captures this diversity perfectly, though in a semi-idyllic world and in a tongue-and-cheek way. It shows you that women can happily desire to be home makers as well as rebel and be entrepreneurially inclined. A story that can simultaneously be seen as one that needs change, and one that can bring about change. Laapataa Ladies (Hindi) is a film that can engage, entertain and make sense not just to women in India but universally as well.” The 13-member committee was chaired by Assamese filmmaker Jahnu Barua.
    Produced by Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Pictures, Laapataa Ladies had its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. It released in Indian theatres in March this year and is currently streaming on Netflix.
    “I am deeply honored and delighted that our film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards,” Rao said in a statement. “This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India.”
    This year, a total of 29 films, including Payal Kapadia’s Cannes-winning All We Imagine as Light and the acclaimed Malayalam drama Aattam, were in the running for Oscars selection
    India was last nominated for Best International Feature at the Academy Awards for Lagaan (2001). The 97th Academy Awards are scheduled for 2025 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, US.