Monday, September 21, 2026
Home Blog Page 111

​Vismaya Mohanlal Goes Pro: Intense Muay Thai Training Signals Action-Packed Debut in ‘Thudakkam’

0

Kochi: Vismaya Mohanlal, the daughter of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, is turning heads as she undertakes intense physical preparation for her much-anticipated acting debut. Shedding her previous roles as an author and artist, Vismaya is currently undergoing rigorous Muay Thai training in Thailand, signaling her serious commitment to her upcoming film, Thudakkam (The Beginning).

​Vismaya shared glimpses of her dedicated workouts at the renowned FITKOH Fitness Camp in Thailand, training under coach Tony Olin. The intense sessions in the traditional Thai martial art suggest a physically demanding role in the new venture. Fans and industry observers are interpreting her return to the ring as the final stage of physical conditioning before she steps in front of the camera.

​The film, Thudakkam, is directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, who is known for delivering career-defining hits. Joseph’s association has further fueled the excitement surrounding her launch. The director, along with Mohanlal himself, has publicly expressed faith in Vismaya’s potential. “Dear Mayakutty, may your ‘Thudakkam’ be just the first step in a lifelong affair with cinema,” Mohanlal had posted, offering his paternal blessing.

​Before this cinematic plunge, Vismaya had already established her creative credentials as a poet, painter, and author, notably with her 2020 book, Grains of Stardust. She has also gained valuable on-set experience, having served as an assistant director for her father’s directorial debut, Barroz. With her multifaceted background and a renewed focus on physical discipline, Vismaya Mohanlal is poised to make a memorable “beginning” in the world of cinema.

​A Moment of Immense Pride: Army Chief General Dwivedi Honours Lt. Col. (Hony) Mohanlal with Prestigious COAS Commendation Card

0

New Delhi: Malayalam superstar and Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, Mohanlal, was felicitated with the prestigious Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Card by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, at the Army Headquarters in New Delhi.

​The actor, a recipient of the recent Dadasaheb Phalke Award, shared the news on his official social media handle, expressing his profound gratitude for the high military honour bestowed upon him.

​In his post, Mohanlal wrote: “Today, I had the honour of being called by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, to the Army Headquarters, where I was awarded the COAS Commendation Card in the presence of seven Army Commanders. Receiving this recognition as an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel is a moment of immense pride and gratitude. I remain deeply thankful to General Upendra Dwivedi, the entire Indian Army, and my parent unit of the Territorial Army for this honour and their unwavering support.”

​The commendation is in recognition of the actor’s outstanding contribution to society, his continued association with the Armed Forces, and his spirit of service, philanthropy, and unwavering respect for the uniform. Mohanlal was commissioned as an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in 2009.

​Sources from the Indian Army highlighted that the actor’s dedication was particularly visible during his voluntary contribution to relief efforts during the Wayanad natural disaster in August 2024. Beyond his cinematic career, Lt. Col. (Hony) Mohanlal actively supports social causes through the ViswaSanthi Foundation, which champions education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.

​The ceremony, held in the presence of seven Army Commanders, underscored the significance of the award and the value the Army places on the actor’s long-standing commitment. This rare felicitation cements Mohanlal’s status not just as a cinematic icon, but as a steadfast supporter and an honorary member of the Indian military fraternity.

Sabarimala Gold Panel Row: TDB President P.S. Prasanth’s Chair in Jeopardy?

0

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Speculation is mounting in Kerala’s political circles regarding the future of Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) President P.S. Prasanth amidst the controversy surrounding the Sabarimala gold panel damage.

The air of uncertainty thickened after Minister V.N. Vasavan informed the Legislative Assembly that Prasanth’s term is set to conclude on November 13 and that there was currently no answer on whether it would be extended.

The gold panel row, coupled with the Minister’s vague reply on the financial details of the recent Global Ayyappa Sangamam, has intensified the mystery. Minister Vasavan was responding to a question raised by MLA A.P. Anil Kumar on October 6.

Term End and Financial Ambiguity

Prasanth assumed office as the TDB President on November 14, 2023. The administrative body comprises Prasanth and two other members. The Assembly was also informed that the TDB committee members participated in the Global Ayyappa Sangamam not as representatives, but as organizers.

The lack of clarity deepened when Minister Vasavan failed to provide specific figures on the amount collected or spent under sponsorship for the Global Ayyappa Sangamam. He stated that steps are being taken to collect the promised sponsorship funds from various institutions, including Dhanalakshmi Bank and Kerala Bank.

Political observers are keenly watching whether Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will distance himself from Prasanth in light of these controversies. Kerala awaits to see what the political fate of the TDB President will be after November 13.

Sabarimala Gold Scam: TDB Chief P.S. Prasanth’s Congress-to-CPM Journey Sparks Political Storm

0

Thiruvananthapuram: The ongoing controversy surrounding the missing gold from the Sabarimala temple has thrust the political background of Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) President P.S. Prasanth back into the public eye. Questions are mounting over Prasanth’s swift political transition—from a Congress candidate in the 2021 Assembly elections to a ‘favourite’ of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his subsequent elevation to the top post of the Devaswom Board.

Prasanth contested the 2021 Assembly elections from the Nedumangad constituency as the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate. A protégé of veteran Congress leader Thampanoor Ravi, he entered the fray with Ravi’s full backing. However, he suffered a significant defeat, losing by a margin of 23,309 votes.

Following his electoral loss, Prasanth sought the position of Thiruvananthapuram District Congress Committee (DCC) President. When the party leadership reportedly ignored this demand, he resigned from the Congress in protest.

Soon after, Prasanth grew close to the ruling establishment, following in the footsteps of former Congress leaders like K.P. Anil Kumar and Rathikumar by switching allegiance to the CPM. This move culminated in his appointment by the state government as the Travancore Devaswom Board President. The speed of his political ascent and high-profile appointment—coming shortly after his party defection—has fueled public speculation. Many are now questioning if his assignment to such a powerful position is part of a “Communist mission” to boost the financial power of party affiliates.

Adding to the debate are details from his 2021 election affidavit, which stated his total assets to be 29.63 lakh rupees. His movable and immovable assets at the time included a Hero Honda Activa scooter and one sovereign of gold. In the wake of the current Sabarimala gold controversy, Prasanth’s rapid political growth and his controversial appointment continue to be a hot topic across social media platforms.

Kerala Bans Medicines from Two Pharma Companies; Issues Public Warning

0

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Health Department has taken swift action to ban all medicines manufactured by Tamil Nadu-based Sresan Pharmaceuticals and has halted the sale and distribution of a substandard cough syrup from Gujarat-based Rednex Pharmaceuticals, Health Minister Veena George announced.

The comprehensive ban on all products from Sresan Pharmaceuticals, a company operating from Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, was implemented after the Tamil Nadu Drugs Controller initiated proceedings to cancel the firm’s manufacturing license.

In a separate action, the state’s Drugs Control Department immediately stopped the supply and sale of Respifresh TR (60ml syrup, Batch No. R01GL2523), manufactured by Rednex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. in Ahmedabad. This move came after the Gujarat Drugs Controller officially declared the specified batch to be of substandard quality.

State authorities have issued stop-sale notices to the five distributors supplying the syrup in Kerala. “Strict action will be taken against anyone found selling this drug,” the minister warned. “We urge the public not to use this medicine if they have it in their possession.”

The minister clarified that these specific medicines are not supplied through government hospitals. Additionally, she has directed officials to take stringent action against any pharmacy that dispenses medicine for children under 12 without a prescription from a registered medical practitioner.

Major Relief for Kerala Govt Employees: Medical Reimbursement Limit Hiked to ₹1,00,000

0

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government has significantly increased the financial limit for administrative departments to sanction medical reimbursement claims for government employees undergoing treatment at private hospitals. The limit has been raised tenfold from the previous ₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000 (One Lakh Rupees).

The decision was formalized by the Finance Department through an official order aimed at streamlining the process and ensuring the timely settlement of claims.

New Order to Reduce Delays

According to the official communication, the previous financial limit of ₹10,000 was found to be insufficient, leading to delays in processing claims and creating an additional workload for the Finance Department. The new enhancement is expected to empower administrative departments to clear a majority of claims faster, providing much-needed relief to employees.

The order number for this revision is G.O.(P) No. 120/2025/Fin, dated 03/10/2025.

Strict Conditions Apply

While the financial power has been increased, the government has mandated strict compliance with certain conditions to prevent misuse:

  • All claims must be verified and approved by the Head of the Health Department or the District Medical Officer (DMO).
  • The settlement of applications must strictly adhere to the Kerala Government Servants’ Medical Attendance (KGSMA) rules, related government orders, and guidelines mentioned in circular No. 82/2022/Fin. For claims made after the implementation of MEDISEP, its specific provisions must also be followed.
  • The designated approving authority will be held personally liable for any rule violations or financial loss incurred by the government.

This move is anticipated to make the reimbursement procedure more efficient and less cumbersome for government employees across the state.

Missing Suicide Note Complicates Probe as Senior Haryana ADGP Y Puran Kumar Dies by Suicide in Chandigarh

0

Chandigarh: The police fraternity across Haryana and Chandigarh has been rocked by the shocking death of senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Y Puran Kumar, who allegedly died by suicide at his official residence in Sector 11, Chandigarh, on Tuesday. The tragic incident, which saw the officer shoot himself, has immediately initiated a high-level inquiry, complicated by the critical absence of a suicide note.

​Y Puran Kumar, who held the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) in the Haryana cadre, was found deceased in his government accommodation. Upon receiving the distress call, Chandigarh Police immediately rushed to the scene, cordoning off the area to secure evidence.

​Confirming the use of a firearm, authorities stated that the weapon involved in the incident has been recovered. Forensic teams were immediately deployed to conduct an exhaustive, on-site examination to gather crucial evidence.

​“An inquiry has been initiated into the matter. We are currently in the process of collecting all evidence and recording statements from the family members and residential staff,” a senior police official stated. “The exact cause and motive behind this tragic incident will only be determined after a detailed investigation is completed.”

​Recent Transfer Under Scrutiny

​The sudden demise has sent ripples through administrative circles, particularly given the officer’s recent professional movements. Just days prior, on September 29, Kumar was transferred to a significant posting: Rohtak’s Sunaria Jail. This facility is notable for being the high-security prison where Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is currently serving a sentence following his conviction in cases of sexual assault and other offences.

​Investigators are meticulously examining all angles, including potential linkages between recent professional developments—such as the high-stakes jail posting—or any underlying personal reasons that may have driven the senior officer to take the extreme step.

​Several senior officials from both the Haryana Police and the Chandigarh administration converged at the residence as the news of the tragedy spread, highlighting the gravity of the loss within the uniformed services. The officer’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination, the detailed report of which is keenly awaited to assist in piecing together the final moments before the tragic event. The ongoing investigation is aimed at providing concrete answers to the questions surrounding the death of a high-ranking IPS officer.

Adani Defence Under Probe for Alleged ₹77 Crore Tax Evasion on Missile Part Imports

0

New Delhi: Adani Defence, the defence arm of Gautam Adani’s Adani Enterprises, is facing an investigation for alleged tax evasion. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has launched a probe into allegations that the company evaded ₹77 crore ($9 million) in import duties on components for short-range missiles. This development marks the latest legal challenge for the Adani Group, which is already under scrutiny for alleged stock market irregularities and money laundering in coal imports.

Adani Defence, which manufactures missiles, drones, and small arms for the Indian armed forces, has been under investigation by the DRI since March this year, according to a Reuters report citing government sources. The primary allegation is that the company misclassified imported parts for dutiable short-range missiles as parts for long-range missiles, which were exempt from taxes, in order to evade customs duties.

Adani’s Response

In a statement, the Adani Group clarified that the DRI had only sought clarifications on certain imports and that a response has been provided with supporting documents. “The issue stands closed from our end,” a spokesperson added. However, the company did not specify whether the matter was settled by paying the alleged dues or a penalty.

Serious Allegations

A government source revealed that during the investigation, Adani executives admitted to the misclassification of the imported parts. If the allegations are proven, the company could be liable to pay the evaded tax of ₹77 crore plus a 100% penalty, bringing the total to approximately ₹154 crore ($18 million). This is a significant amount for Adani Defence, which had a revenue of ₹633 crore ($76 million) in the 2024-25 fiscal year.

The investigation pertains to imports from countries like Russia and Israel. The Indian government only granted tax exemptions for short-range missile parts in September 2025; the current probe focuses on imports made before this rule change.

Sabarimala Gold Scandal: Key Devaswom Official Murari Babu Suspended Over Dubious Orders

0

Thiruvananthapuram: In the first major disciplinary action in the widening Sabarimala gold plating scandal, the Travancore Devaswom Board has suspended former Administrative Officer Murari Babu. The crucial decision was made during a Board meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, following a review of his “suspicious” actions and decisions.

The Board’s investigation concluded that Murari Babu committed significant lapses at two critical stages of the controversy. The first occurred in 2019, when, as the Administrative Officer at Sabarimala, he issued the order to replace the original gold plating on the ‘Dwarapalaka’ (guardian deity) sculptures with copper. The Board considers this a grave error.

The second lapse took place in 2025 when, as the Sabarimala Executive Officer, Babu initiated the file recommending that the same sculptures be sent back to the artist, Unnikrishna Potti, for “repairs” and gold coating. The Board has identified this as another serious failure in judgment.

Just before his suspension, Murari Babu spoke to the media, claiming the sculptures were sent for gold plating because the underlying copper had become visible due to wear and tear. He admitted to signing the original order that effectively turned the gold plates into copper ones.

However, his statement is contradicted by the advocate for Smart Creations, the firm that handled the gold plating. According to the advocate, even with significant wear, traces of gold would have remained on the copper plate. This casts serious doubt on Babu’s claim that only copper was visible, suggesting it might be a false narrative.

This suspension marks the first official action from the Devaswom Board in the scandal. The details of any further departmental inquiry against Murari Babu are yet to be announced. The case is also the subject of a parallel investigation by the Crime Branch, which was ordered by the Kerala High Court.

Blow to State Employees: Kerala Dearness Allowance Hike Delayed Again; CM’s Nod Awaited Ahead of Local Polls

0

Thiruvananthapuram: The announcement regarding the 4 percent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for Kerala government employees and pensioners has been postponed yet again, sparking disappointment among the beneficiaries. The government had planned to announce the DA/DR revision, with retrospective effect from January 2023, just before the local body election code of conduct comes into force, aiming to appease the staff.

​There were strong indications that the Finance Minister would make the crucial announcement in the Legislative Assembly today while responding to the Appropriation Bill. However, the anticipated declaration did not materialize. The 4% DA is due to be implemented with effect from January 2023, making the total delay significant.

CM’s Approval The Sticking Point

​Sources suggest that the delay in the official announcement stems from the lack of necessary approval from the Chief Minister. While the Finance Department had reportedly given its nod for the increase, the final green light for the Assembly announcement is still pending.

​The state government had calculated that announcing the DA hike just before the election code of conduct would allow the revised allowance to be included in the November salaries. This move was intended to mend strained relations with government employees and pensioners, many of whom are reportedly disgruntled over the denial of various benefits, thereby securing their support in the upcoming local body elections.

Significant Financial Boost Expected

​The 4 percent increase in DA is set to bring a substantial financial relief to employees and pensioners.

  • For Employees: Depending on the nature of the post, salaries are expected to increase by an amount ranging from ₹800 to ₹6,500.
  • For Pensioners: The pension amount will see an increase between ₹460 and ₹3,300, based on their basic pension slab.