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โ€‹โšฝ Messi ‘GOAT Tour’ Expands to Pan-India; Hyderabad Replaces Canceled Kerala Stop

South India Pulse
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โ€‹โšฝ Messi ‘GOAT Tour’ Expands to Pan-India; Hyderabad Replaces Canceled Kerala Stop

NEW DELHI/HYDERABAD: Football icon Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated ‘GOAT Tour to India 2025’ is set to become a pan-India spectacle, with Hyderabad officially added as the new Southern stop. This decision follows the cancellation of the proposed Argentina friendly match that was initially scheduled for Kochi, Kerala, on November 17.

โ€‹The addition of Hyderabad ensures that fans across South India will not be “deprived” of seeing their idol, said Satadru Dutta, the sole organiser of the GOAT Tour. The revised itinerary will now cover all four corners of the country: East (Kolkata), South (Hyderabad), West (Mumbai), and North (New Delhi).

โ€‹”Now we are covering south also. This will be a tribute to millions of football fans in South India,” Dutta confirmed, noting that Hyderabad was the natural choice due to its central location and huge football fan base. The event in Hyderabad is expected to be held on December 13, 2025, at either the Gachibowli or Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

โ€‹The Hyderabad leg is envisioned as an “extension of the GOAT Cup,” a grand celebration featuring a celebrity football match, a football clinic, a felicitation ceremony, and a musical programme, with several South Indian film stars expected to be in attendance.

โ€‹The overall tour, which marks Messi’s return to India after 14 years, will kick off in Kolkata on December 13, followed by Hyderabad the same evening, before moving to Mumbai on December 14, and concluding in New Delhi on December 15, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The tour will also feature other football stars, including Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul.

Sabarimala: Southern Railway Rolls Out 4 Special Trains from Chennai to Kollam

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Sabarimala: Southern Railway Rolls Out 4 Special Trains from Chennai to Kollam

Kollam: Southern Railway (SR) has announced the commencement of special train services between Chennai and Kollam to manage the anticipated rush of pilgrims during the upcoming annual Sabarimala Mandalakalam season. The initial announcement confirms four special train pairings connecting Chennai with Kollam, the nearest major railhead to the Sabarimala shrine.

The services, which will run from mid-November to late January, are specifically timed to facilitate comfortable travel for devotees from Tamil Nadu and other regions. Southern Railway has indicated that more special services are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Detailed Special Train Schedules (Chennai โ€“ Kollam)

The four trains currently notified will connect Chennai Egmore and Chennai Central stations with Kollam Junction, offering multiple travel options throughout the week.

Train No. (Up/Dn)RouteDay of Departure (from Chennai)DurationKey Kerala Stops
06111 / 06112Chennai Egmore โ€“ KollamFriday (Dep. 11:55 PM)Nov 14 to Jan 16 (10 trips)Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Chengannur
06113 / 06114Chennai Central โ€“ KollamSunday (Dep. 11:50 PM)Nov 17 to Jan 19Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Chengannur
06119 / 06220Chennai Central โ€“ KollamWednesday (Dep. 3:10 PM)Nov 19 to Jan 21Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Chengannur
06127 / 06128Chennai Central โ€“ KollamThursday (Dep. 11:50 PM)Season-longPalakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Chengannur

Operational Notes:

  • Train 06111/06112: Departs Chennai Egmore on Friday night, reaching Kollam at 4:30 PM the following day. The return journey (06112) starts from Kollam at 7:35 PM on Saturday.
  • Train 06119/06220: This day-time service departs Chennai Central at 3:10 PM on Wednesdays, arriving in Kollam early Thursday morning at 6:40 AM. The return journey from Kollam (06220) begins at 10:40 AM on Thursday.
  • All services include stops at major pilgrim-convenience points like Chengannur and Thiruvalla (except 06119/06220 and 06127/06128 which only list Chengannur in the original list, but generally stop at major points like Kottayam and Thiruvalla).

“There Was Blood Everywhere”: Eyewitnesses Recount Horror on London-Bound Train Stabbing

South India Pulse
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“There Was Blood Everywhere”: Eyewitnesses Recount Horror on London-Bound Train Stabbing

LONDON: Ten people were injured, with nine sustaining life-threatening injuries, after a mass stabbing erupted on a London-bound train on Saturday evening. British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed the incident occurred shortly after the train, traveling from Doncaster, departed Peterborough station around 7:30 pm local time. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.

โ€‹The busy route, frequently packed with travelers heading to London’s King’s Cross station, became the scene of chaos and terror, according to passengers who managed to escape.

โ€‹Witnesses Describe Scene of Panic and Blood

โ€‹Eyewitness accounts detail a harrowing struggle as passengers scrambled to find safety from the attack. One witness described the grim reality to The Times, recalling a man brandishing a large knife and stating simply: “There was blood everywhere.”

โ€‹The witness said that the panic led to further chaos, with some passengers getting “stamped on by others” while trying to run away. Many sought refuge in the trainโ€™s lavatories.

โ€‹Another chilling detail emerged as the witness recounted hearing shouts of “We love you” during the unfolding violence. Separately, an eyewitness speaking to Sky News described seeing a victim moving down the carriage, pleading, “They have got a knife; I have been stabbed.”

โ€‹Official Response and Investigation

โ€‹The British Transport Police has launched an urgent inquiry, supported by counterterrorism police, to establish the full circumstances and motive behind the attack.

โ€‹British Transport Police Chief Superintendent Chris Casey acknowledged the complexity of the scene, stating, “We’re conducting urgent enquiries to establish what has happened, and it could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything further.” He stressed that it would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause of the incident at this early stage.

โ€‹British Prime Minister Keir Starmer quickly condemned the attack, calling the mass stabbing an “appalling incident.” In a post on X, he extended his thoughts to those affected and thanked the emergency services for their swift and decisive response.

Present Rule in Kerala: A Betrayal of Its Own Employees

South India Pulse
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Present Rule in Kerala: A Betrayal of Its Own Employees

Kochi: Kerala, once hailed as a model state for its commitment to welfare and public service, now stands at a crossroads of betrayal and disappointment. For the first time since independence, the ruling government has openly cheated its own backbone โ€” the government servants. The denial of 14% Dearness Allowance (DA), despite repeated promises and public announcements, marks an unprecedented breach of trust between the state and its employees.

Government servants, who have dedicated their lives to the smooth functioning of public administration, are left struggling to make both ends meet. Prices of essentials are skyrocketing, living costs have multiplied, and yet their rightful pay remains withheld. This situation has pushed many middle-class families โ€” once the stable core of Keralaโ€™s economy โ€” into financial distress.

While the Central Government disburses DA on time, the Kerala Government lags far behind, hiding behind excuses of financial crisis and budgetary limitations. Ironically, the same administration continues to spend lavishly on political campaigns and unnecessary events, exposing its misplaced priorities. The slogan of โ€œwelfare stateโ€ now sounds hollow, as welfare begins at home โ€” and home, in this case, is the community of hardworking state employees.

The present rule has not only failed in governance but has also lost its moral authority. A government that cannot honour its word and pay its employees their due cannot claim to stand for justice or progress. This is not just an administrative lapse; it is moral bankruptcy.

Keralaโ€™s public servants deserve better โ€” not false assurances or piecemeal payments, but fairness, dignity, and respect. The government must act immediately to restore faith by releasing the pending DA and acknowledging the invaluable contribution of its employees. Anything less would be a permanent stain on the legacy of a state once known for its integrity and social justice.

Revealed: The Real Reason Behind Lamine Yamal and Nicki Nicole’s Breakup

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Revealed: The Real Reason Behind Lamine Yamal and Nicki Nicole’s Breakup

BARCELONA โ€” FC Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has confirmed the end of his relationship with Argentine singer Nicki Nicole, stating clearly that the breakup was not caused by infidelity, despite recent media speculation.

The 18-year-old, whose relationship with the artist began in August and was frequently publicizedโ€”even drawing criticism after the couple shared a private helicopter rideโ€”announced the separation to RTVE Catalunya reporter Javi Hoyos.

“We’re not together,” Yamal confirmed, before explicitly addressing the swirling rumors of cheating that have plagued the couple’s final days.

“It hasn’t been because of any infidelity,” he clarified. “We’ve simply separated, that’s all. Everything that’s coming out has nothing to do with our relationship.”

Yamal further emphasized that the allegations circulating are false: “I haven’t been unfaithful nor have I been with anyone else.”

Milan Trip Sparks Media Firestorm

The breakup announcement follows intense media speculation, particularly after Argentinian journalist Yanina Latorre reported on the alleged infidelity. The rumors gained traction following a report by journalist Jordi Martรญn, suggesting Yamal took a “secret getaway” to Milan.

Martรญn revealed the footballer traveled on a private flight and stayed at the Armani hotel in Milan with model Anna Gengoso. Social media followers noted similarities between photos shared by Yamal’s circle and Gengoso, fueling the cheating narrative.

In his statement, Yamal directly refuted these claims, pointing out that he was already single when he made the trip to Italy, thus refuting any suggestion of a fling with Gengoso causing the split.

The singer, Nicki Nicole, had separately indicated to Jordi Martรญn that the couple had been separated “for a few days now, since I left Barcelona.”

Lamine Yamal Confirms Split from Nicki Nicole

South India Pulse
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Lamine Yamal Confirms Split from Nicki Nicole

BARCELONA โ€” FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has confirmed he is no longer dating Argentine singer Nicki Nicole, speaking out to deny rumors of infidelity following heavy criticism over his recent performances, particularly in last weekendโ€™s El Clรกsico.

The 18-year-old winger, who had been open about the relationship since it was confirmed in August, broke the news to RTVE Catalunya reporter Javier de Hoyos. Yamal stated that the split was amicable, aiming to shut down recent gossip.

“We are not together anymore, it was not for any infidelity,” Yamal told Hoyos. “We have simply parted ways, and that’s it. Everything that is coming out has nothing to do with us. Iโ€™ve not been unfaithful or gotten with someone else.”

The announcement follows a rough week for Yamal, who was heavily criticized by FC Barcelona fans for his subdued performance against Real Madrid. His focus had become a central point of concern for supporters, who noted his public relationship activities on social media and at home games.

Rumors had recently sparked in Spain suggesting Yamal cheated on Nicole after he reportedly attended a party in Milan and was seen with Italian influencer Anna Gegnoso. The star’s statement directly refutes these claims.

CM Pinarayi Vijayan Accused of ‘Gross Lie’ as Documents Show Zero Spending from โ‚น60 Crore Poverty Fund

South India Pulse
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CM Pinarayi Vijayan Accused of ‘Gross Lie’ as Documents Show Zero Spending from โ‚น60 Crore Poverty Fund

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is facing intense scrutiny after official government documents allegedly contradicted his statement in the Legislative Assembly regarding the financial progress of the state’s flagship Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP). The revelation has sparked a major political controversy, raising questions about the Chief Minister’s veracity on the floor of the House.

โ€‹During his statement, the Chief Minister had asserted that the government fully utilized the funds allocated for the EPEP, claiming that โ‚น50 crore each was spent in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years, with โ‚น60 crore earmarked and utilized for 2025-26. He stated these funds were spent on key areas including healthcare, housing construction, and livelihood support for the extremely poor.

โ€‹Financial Discrepancies Exposed

โ€‹However, documents from the state Planning Boardโ€™s Plan Space show a glaring contradiction:

  • โ€‹2025-26 Fiscal Year: Against the allocated budget of โ‚น60 crore, the official records indicate the expenditure is zero percent (โ‚น0).
  • โ€‹2023-24 Fiscal Year: Out of the โ‚น50 crore budget mentioned by the CM, only โ‚น16.43 crore was actually spent, according to the government’s own budget papers for 2025-26.

โ€‹This massive discrepancy suggests that the Chief Ministerโ€™s claim of full fund utilization for the anti-poverty scheme is patently false, turning a touted developmental milestone into a controversy over transparency and financial management. Critics are now demanding a clarification from the Chief Minister on the contradiction between his statement and the state’s official financial records.

“ekล” Teaser Unveiled: Kishkindha Kaandam Team Reunites for a Gripping Mystery Film

South India Pulse
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“ekล” Teaser Unveiled: Kishkindha Kaandam Team Reunites for a Gripping Mystery Film

The highly-anticipated teaser for ‘ekล’ the latest directorial venture of Dinjith Ayyathan, the director of the critically acclaimed Kishkindha Kaandam, has been released, promising a film filled with curiosity and suspense.

‘ekล’ brings back the winning combination of the Kishkindha Kaandam team, with Bahul Ramesh handling the script, dialogue, and cinematography. Ramesh is also known for his work on Kerala Crime Files Season 2. Young star Sandeep Pradeep, who delivered a superhit performance in Padakkalam, takes on the lead role, adding to the buzz surrounding the project. This feature film also marks the debut production venture of M.R.K. Jayaram under the Aaradhya Studios banner.

A Mystery with an Animal Connect

The teaser strongly hints at a plot laden with mystery and high suspense, matching the excitement generated by the film’s earlier first-look poster.

Significantly, ‘ekล’ is being billed as the final installment of a unique ‘Animal Trilogy’ by the team, following Kishkindha Kaandam and Kerala Crime Files Season 2, both of which featured animals in crucial narrative roles.

While the three stories in this trilogy are distinct and unconnected, they share a common soul, as the narrative in each is critically influenced by the presence of animals. The common thread running through these three tales is the exploration of crimes and moral conflicts set in a story world marked by animal presence.

Behind the Scenes Talent

  • Director: Dinjith Ayyathan
  • Producer: M. R. K. Jayaram
  • Story, Screenplay, Dialogue, Cinematography: Bahul Ramesh
  • Music: Mujeeb Majeed
  • Editor: Sooraj E. S.
  • Art Director: Sajeesh Thamarassery
  • Teaser Cut: Mahesh Bhuvanand

The Teaser
You can watch the intriguing teaser for ekล’ here:

Star-Studded ‘Poverty-Free Kerala’ Event Sparks Outrage Over โ‚น1.5 Crore Fund Diversion from Poor Housing

South India Pulse
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Star-Studded ‘Poverty-Free Kerala’ Event Sparks Outrage Over โ‚น1.5 Crore Fund Diversion from Poor Housing

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has landed in a major controversy after sanctioning โ‚น1.50 crore for the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s ‘Extreme Poverty-Free State Declaration’ event by allegedly diverting funds earmarked for the housing of the most destitute.

โ€‹The lavish event, scheduled for 3 PM today at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, is set to feature film icons Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Kamal Haasan as chief guests.

โ€‹The expenditure of โ‚น1.50 crore for the grand declaration ceremony was drawn from the fund specifically allocated for the construction of homes for the extremely poor, according to the official order.

โ€‹The controversial order, which was issued on October 26 by Local Self-Government Special Secretary T.V. Anupama IAS, has ignited a political storm. Critics argue that diverting poor families’ housing funds to finance a celebratory event, even one proclaiming the end of extreme poverty, is a contradictory and deeply unacceptable move.

โ€‹The move has drawn widespread condemnation, turning an intended celebratory milestone into a major controversy regarding the state’s fiscal priorities and commitment to its poorest citizens.

More Than Just BB: Gizele Thakral’s High-Profile Friendships with Yuvraj Singh, Salman Khan Resurface!

South India Pulse
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More Than Just BB: Gizele Thakral’s High-Profile Friendships with Yuvraj Singh, Salman Khan Resurface!

Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 contestant Gizele Thakral is back in the spotlight, not just for her stint on the reality show, but for her close celebrity connections, including former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh and Bollywood superstar Salman Khan.

The half-Malayali model, actress, and entrepreneur, who quickly became a fan favorite among Malayalam viewers, is once again the subject of discussion following reports about her dating history with Yuvraj Singh.

๐Ÿ’– Dating Rumours Resurface

Reports from 2013, published by media outlets like The Times of India and India Today, are being dug up by fans, questioning if Gizele and Yuvraj were romantically involved. At the time, the cricketer was reportedly spotted at Gizeleโ€™s birthday party, fueling speculation about a budding romance.

Gizele, however, had clarified her relationship with the cricketer, stating: “Of course Yuvi is a very good friend. We are part of the same group and always hang out together. I know him for many years now…”

โœจ Bollywood and Cricket Connections

Beyond Yuvraj Singh, photographs circulating online highlight the sheer scale of Gizele’s celebrity social circle. Pictures show her alongside prominent figures, including Bollywood celebrities like Salman Khan and Sidharth Malhotra, as well as cricketer Virat Kohli’s ex-girlfriend, Izabelle Leite. These high-profile friendships underscore Gizele’s significant presence in the national entertainment industry.

๐ŸŒŸ A Star with Global Experience

Gizeleโ€™s journey to fame began at the age of 14, launching her successful modeling career. She was a finalist in a major modeling competition, winning titles like ‘Miss Best Body’ and ‘Miss Potential’. She also represented India at the Ford Models Supermodel of the World contest in Turkey and was a winner of the ‘Miss Rajasthan’ title as a teenager.

For Gizele, the Malayalam show was her second Bigg Boss experience, having previously been a wildcard contestant on Salman Khanโ€™s Bigg Boss Hindi Season 9. With a massive following of over two million on Instagram, the Mumbai-based star, whose mother is from Alappuzha and father is Punjabi, is fast becoming a major crush among the youth in Kerala.

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