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Blockbuster Success: Soubin Shahir Thanks Fans as Police Drama ‘Pathiraathri’ Dominates Box Office

South India Pulse
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Blockbuster Success: Soubin Shahir Thanks Fans as Police Drama ‘Pathiraathri’ Dominates Box Office

KOCHI – The police crime drama ‘Pathiraathri,’ directed by Rathiina and starring Navya Nair and Soubin Shahir, has emerged as a massive box office success, drawing phenomenal audience and critical acclaim since its release.

Following the film’s spectacular run, Soubin Shahir, who plays the central police character Hareesh, has extended his heartfelt gratitude to the viewers.

“I am incredibly happy with the film’s success and the response from the audience,” Soubin said. He revealed that he has received numerous calls from viewers praising specific moments and discussing the thrilling climax, which has brought him immense joy. Soubin urged those who have not yet seen the film, which is currently running to packed houses across Kerala, to watch it and requested those who have seen it to spread the word.

A Gripping Crime Thriller

‘Pathiraathri’ (Midnight) revolves around unexpected developments that unfold late one night, narrated through the lives of police characters Jaanaki (Navya Nair) and Hareesh (Soubin Shahir). The film successfully blends thrilling elements with deep emotional depth.

Directed by Rathiina—her second feature after the Mammootty-starrer ‘Puzhu’—the film features powerful performances from Navya Nair and Soubin Shahir as the main highlight. Sunny Wayne and Ann Augustine also star in crucial roles, showcasing stellar chemistry and screen presence.

The film was produced by Dr. K V Abdul Nazar and Ashiya Nazar under the banner of Bensy Productions. Dream Big Films distributed the movie across Kerala with a massive release.

Technical and Distribution Details

T-Series secured the music rights for ‘Pathiraathri’ for a substantial sum. The supporting cast includes Atmiya Rajan, Sabareesh Varma, Harishree Ashokan, Achyuth Kumar, Indrans, and Tejas. The screenplay was penned by Shaji Maarad. Fars Films handled the overseas distribution.

The film boasts a strong technical team: Cinematography by Shehnad Jalal, Music by Jakes Bejoy, Editing by Sreejith Sarang, and Art Direction by Dileep Nath.

Gold Price Soars to Record High: Jumps ₹1,520 Per Pavan

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Gold Price Soars to Record High: Jumps ₹1,520 Per Pavan

Kochi – The price of gold has once again reached a record high in the domestic market, with the cost of one pavan (8 grams) of 22-carat gold surging by a massive ₹1,520 today to touch ₹97,360.

The dramatic increase follows a two-day period of decline, pushing the price per gram up by ₹190 to ₹12,170. Yesterday, a pavan of gold was trading at ₹95,840. This upward momentum is reigniting market speculation that the price may soon breach the ₹1 lakh mark, a level it was nearing before a sudden drop of ₹1,400 per pavan on Saturday.

The primary catalyst for the current spike is the dynamic movement in the international gold market, which directly reflects in Indian prices. As one of the world’s largest consumers of the yellow metal, India imports tons of gold annually, meaning even minor fluctuations in the global market have a substantial impact on domestic rates.

Global & Domestic Factors at Play

While international market shifts are a major factor, the final gold price in India is a complex calculation influenced by several domestic variables:

  • Rupee-Dollar Exchange Rate: Since gold is globally traded in US Dollars, a weakening Indian Rupee makes imports more expensive, which is then passed on to the consumer.
  • Local Demand: High demand, especially during festival and wedding seasons, can exert upward pressure on prices.
  • Import Duties: Government-imposed import duties and taxes on the metal significantly add to the final retail price.

The confluence of these factors suggests that even if the international price sees a dip, a corresponding reduction in the domestic Indian price is not guaranteed, maintaining the precious metal’s status as a volatile but often favoured investment asset.

Delhi Chokes Again: ‘Green Diwali’ Effort Fails to Prevent ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality

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Delhi Chokes Again: ‘Green Diwali’ Effort Fails to Prevent ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality

NEW DELHI: The national capital woke up blanketed in a heavy layer of smog, with air quality deteriorating sharply into the ‘Very Poor’ category, despite this year’s experiment allowing the use of less-polluting ‘green crackers.’

​The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at \text{350} at 8:00 am, just hours after Diwali celebrations concluded. The readings were even higher at pollution hotspots, with the Anand Vihar station clocking an alarming AQI of \text{360}. This immediate post-festival surge confirms a distressing trend that court-mandated restrictions and ‘green’ alternatives have been largely ineffective in combating the capital’s annual air pollution crisis.

​Data Shows Familiar Pattern

​The Supreme Court had permitted the use of ‘green crackers,’ which claim to produce 30 per cent less pollution, aiming to strike a balance between tradition and public health. However, an analysis of air quality data reveals that the air quality remains consistently poor or severe in the days following Diwali, regardless of firecracker bans or relaxations.

​For comparison, the day after Diwali in previous years recorded:

  • ​2024: AQI soared to 359 (Very Poor).
  • ​2023: After a blanket ban was defied, the AQI spiked to 438 (Severe).
  • ​2021: The AQI reached a dangerous 454 (Severe) category.

​‘Less Poison is Meaningless,’ Says Activist

​The recurrence of hazardous air quality has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists. Speaking on the efficacy of ‘green crackers,’ clean air activist Bhavreen Kandhari dismissed the marginal reduction in pollution as insignificant, stating, “We are talking about public health. 30 per cent less pollution is meaningless. Are you saying less poison? Do you want to feed your children less poison?”

​The crisis is exacerbated by stubble burning and vehicular emissions, making the impact of firecrackers cumulative. The pollution levels prompted authorities to invoke anti-pollution measures under the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-2) even before the festival, including restrictions on the use of coal, firewood, and diesel generator sets across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

​The persistent failure of firecracker regulations to deliver clean air underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, year-round action to address the root causes of pollution in the capital.

Controversial Palakkad Brewery Project Rushed for ‘Election Fund,’ Fuels Political Storm in Kerala

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Controversial Palakkad Brewery Project Rushed for ‘Election Fund,’ Fuels Political Storm in Kerala

PALAKKAD: The ruling CPI(M) in Kerala has reportedly fast-tracked the controversial Rs. 635 crore brewery and distillery project in Elappully, Palakkad, allegedly to generate funds for the upcoming elections. The move has ignited a fresh political storm, with the government pushing to override departmental objections and local resistance.

​The project, spearheaded by Oasis Commercial Private Limited, is a massive undertaking that includes an ethanol plant, distillery, and brewery. Reports indicate that Excise Minister M.B. Rajesh and Industries Minister P. Rajeev have been tasked with overseeing the fund-raising efforts linked to the project and other liquor policy changes, including granting new bar licenses to all applicants.

​Single Window Clearance to Override Opposition

​The Kerala State Single Window Clearance Board, under the Industries Department, is reportedly moving the brewery project forward at today’s meeting, aiming to coordinate various departmental approvals that have been stalled due to objections.

​The company’s application to exempt its land from the purview of the Land Reforms Act and its request for wetland conversion have been major hurdles. Of the 24 acres acquired in Mannukkad, Elappully, approximately three and a half acres are listed in the data bank as paddy or wetland. The CPI-controlled Agriculture Department had raised strong objections to the land conversion request.

​Despite the Congress-ruled Elappully Panchayat raising strong objections and a local protest movement gaining momentum over fears of severe water depletion in the already water-scarce region, the Industry Department appears determined to push ahead, disregarding local sentiment with elections approaching.

​Controversial Company and Corruption Charges

​The company at the heart of the row, Oasis Commercial Private Limited, is itself under scrutiny, having faced investigations related to corruption and money laundering in connection with liquor scams in states like Punjab and Delhi. The Kerala Cabinet had granted the company a license for alcohol manufacturing in January, even after the Revenue Department had previously rejected the land conversion request.

​Excise Minister M.B. Rajesh, however, has publicly defended the project, claiming it will offer significant job opportunities and a major boost to local agriculture. He stated that the plant would use cassava, spoiled rice, and vegetable waste as raw materials, promising farmers a higher price for their produce.

​Yet, local residents, supported by the Congress, BJP, and even the CPI unit in Palakkad, are adamant in their opposition, citing the risk of acute water exploitation. A recent attempt by the company to clean the project site was successfully thwarted by a public action committee and local political activists. The Palakkad CPI District Committee has also passed a resolution against the plant, highlighting a clear rift within the ruling Left Democratic Front coalition.

Kerala IAS Shortage of 78 Officers & Administration Run via WhatsApp

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Kerala IAS Shortage of 78 Officers & Administration Run via WhatsApp

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala’s state administration is reeling from a critical shortage of top civil servants, compounded by intense bureaucratic factionalism and the extraordinary revelation that one key department is being managed almost entirely through a messaging app.

​The severity of the crisis was confirmed by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the Legislative Assembly on September 30, where he stated that the state is short of 78 IAS officers. This deficit necessitates assigning multiple additional charges to existing personnel, straining the administrative machinery. Further exacerbating the problem, 30 IAS officers are currently on central deputation.

​One Day in Office, Rest on WhatsApp

​The most startling detail to emerge is the functioning of a Directorate headed by a IAS officer who enjoys the government’s favour. Due to an alleged heavy workload, this officer reportedly attends the institutional office only one day a week. For the remaining days, the officer’s administrative duties and governance are conducted remotely via WhatsApp.

​Factionalism and Infighting Worsens Slowdown

​The lack of officers has led to administrative paralysis, a situation intensified by deep internal rifts. The IAS cadre in Kerala is reportedly split into two distinct factions, hindering the coordination and efficiency of the remaining officers. Sources suggest that Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak is struggling to unify the fractured bureaucracy.

​The report also highlights ongoing turmoil affecting several high-profile officers:

  • ​Prashant N IAS, an officer in the state, has been kept under suspension for several months.
  • ​Principal Secretary Dr. B. Ashok IAS, who is perceived to be out of favour with the current dispensation, is subjected to frequent transfer orders, which he has successfully challenged and had cancelled in court multiple times.

​The internal dissent and administrative instability are so pronounced that even civil servants considered close to the Chief Minister are reportedly seeking central deputation, seemingly in anticipation of a potential change in government following the 2026 Assembly elections. The combined factors of shortage, infighting, and remote governance paint a grim picture of the state’s administrative health.

Shaheen Afridi Takes the Reins: Star Pacer Named Pakistan’s New ODI Captain

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Shaheen Afridi Takes the Reins: Star Pacer Named Pakistan’s New ODI Captain

Islamabad : ​The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a major leadership change in the 50-over format on Monday, naming frontline pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new One Day International (ODI) captain. The 25-year-old left-arm fast bowler takes over the responsibilities from Mohammad Rizwan, effective immediately.

​The decision was finalized following a crucial meeting in Islamabad involving white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, Director of High Performance Aqib Javed, and members of the national selection committee. The change comes after a challenging period for the team in early 2025 under the previous leadership.

​Afridi’s first assignment will be a three-match ODI series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on November 4th. Despite his young age, Shaheen brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record to the role, having represented Pakistan in 66 ODIs and claimed 131 wickets at a strong average of 24.28 since his debut in 2018.

​While Afridi is a veteran of the bowling attack, his leadership experience has been limited. He previously led Pakistan’s T20I side in a five-match home series against New Zealand in early 2024, which concluded in a 2-2 draw.

​Mohammad Rizwan’s tenure, which began in October 2024, had a successful start, notably leading Pakistan to a historic ODI series victory in Australia—their first bilateral win on Australian soil in 22 years. However, the team’s form dipped in 2025, marked by a tri-series loss at home, an early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy, and a 3-0 whitewash in New Zealand.

​The final straw for the previous captaincy came during a 2-1 series defeat to the West Indies, where the team suffered a massive 202-run loss in the final game, being bowled out for just 92 runs. The PCB is now banking on the dynamic energy and on-field intensity of Shaheen Afridi to revitalize the ODI squad ahead of future global tournaments.

Suriya Unleashes ‘God Mode’ in ‘Karuppu’ First Single; Thrilling Diwali Treat for Fans

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Suriya Unleashes ‘God Mode’ in ‘Karuppu’ First Single; Thrilling Diwali Treat for Fans

Chennai: As promised, the makers of Suriya‘s highly anticipated film Karuppu have delivered a major Diwali treat, dropping the film’s explosive first single, ‘God Mode’.

The film, written and directed by RJ Balaji, has been generating buzz since its announcement, and the new lyrical video only heightens the anticipation. In the video, Suriya is seen in full form, “literally lording over” the visuals with a mix of intense poses and the charismatic charm of his elegant dance moves.

The fast-paced number is composed by the rising talent Sai Abhyankkar, who also lends his voice to the track alongside Gana Muthu. The powerful lyrics have been penned by Vishnu Edavan.

Karuppu marks a significant on-screen reunion, as it stars Trisha as the female lead opposite Suriya, bringing the popular pair back together for the first time since 2005’s Aaru. Suriya is set to play the role of a lawyer named Saravanan in the film.

The star-studded cast also includes Indrans, Mansoor Ali Khan, Natty, Swaswika, Anagha Maya Ravi, Supreeth Reddy, and Sshivadha, among others.

Produced by SR Prakash Babu and SR Prabhu under their esteemed Dream Warrior Pictures banner, the film (formerly known as Suriya 45) is expected to hit theaters soon. The release of ‘God Mode’ comes a year after the film’s initial launch. A teaser released earlier on Suriya’s birthday had already promised an action-packed drama, even hinting at references to Suriya’s past blockbusters like Ghajini.

The film boasts a top-tier technical team, with GK Vishnu handling cinematography, Kalaivan managing editing, and the celebrated duo Anbariv, along with Vikram Mor, choreographing the stunt sequences.

From Premalu to the Big Leagues: Mamitha Baiju Hits Kollywood Jackpot, Lands Films with Vijay and Suriya

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From Premalu to the Big Leagues: Mamitha Baiju Hits Kollywood Jackpot, Lands Films with Vijay and Suriya

Kochi: Following the monumental pan-Indian success of ‘Premalu’, actress Mamitha Baiju is rapidly cementing her status as South India’s new cinematic sensation, with a breathtaking lineup of major films in the Tamil industry.

The actress is currently earning praise for her Tamil debut, ‘Dude’, in which she co-stars with Pradeep Ranganathan. Her growing popularity in Kollywood is undeniable, as her presence at the film’s promotional events was reportedly met with a “loud” and thunderous reception from the Tamil audience.

Reports highlight her impressive versatility, noting a seamless transition from the “likeable Reenu” in ‘Premalu’ to a more layered character in ‘Dude’.

The biggest news, however, is her upcoming slate of mega-projects that place her firmly in the A-list. It is confirmed that Mamitha is starring in a full-length role alongside Thalapathy Vijay in the highly anticipated film titled ‘Jana Nayagan’. As if that weren’t enough, it has also been revealed that she has been cast as the heroine in a new film with superstar Suriya. This is a significant win, as the role reportedly came to her after a previous opportunity to work with him had “slipped from her hands.”

While she takes on Kollywood, Mamitha’s Malayalam career remains strong. Her upcoming projects back home include ‘Bethlehem’ with hitmaker director Girish AD and another film with Dinoy Paulose.

With a powerful debut in Tamil and two massive projects with industry legends in the pipeline, industry insiders are already positioning Mamitha Baiju as a “future lady superstar” poised to dominate the South Indian film industry.

Five Budgets, Zero Hike: Kerala’s 60 Lakh Welfare Pensioners Left Waiting Despite Election Promise

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Five Budgets, Zero Hike: Kerala’s 60 Lakh Welfare Pensioners Left Waiting Despite Election Promise

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s approximately 60 lakh welfare pensioners have been left high and dry, as state Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal has presented five consecutive budgets since 2021 without granting even a ₹100 increase in the monthly welfare pension.

​The government’s inaction has sparked widespread criticism, particularly as it reneges on a key electoral promise to raise the welfare pension to ₹2,500.

​Five Years, No Movement

​Balagopal has presented the revised budget for 2021-22, followed by full budgets for the financial years 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26—a total of five budgetary exercises.

​Critics point out that a minimal annual increase of just ₹100 per budget would have resulted in a ₹500 cumulative increase by now, raising the current monthly pension (which stands at ₹1,600) to ₹2,100. Even a small yearly raise of ₹40 would have meant an overall ₹200 increase.

​Instead, the pension amount has remained stagnant since 2021, completely undermining the LDF government’s manifesto promise to raise the amount to ₹2,500.

​Cruelty Amidst Extravagance

​The delay is being slammed as “cruelty” by observers, contrasting the government’s apparent financial prudence towards the most vulnerable with its alleged extravagance in other areas.

​”A government that indulges in lavish spending in every other aspect has committed an act of cruelty against poor welfare pensioners,” said a political commentator.

‘Minnal Murali’ Team Reunites for ‘ATHIRADI’; Tovino, Basil & Vineeth Sreenivasan Star in Campus Actioner

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‘Minnal Murali’ Team Reunites for ‘ATHIRADI’; Tovino, Basil & Vineeth Sreenivasan Star in Campus Actioner

Kochi: The powerhouse team behind the superhit ‘Minnal Murali’ is reuniting for a new multi-starrer film titled “ATHIRADI.” The movie, which brings together Tovino Thomas, Basil Joseph, and Vineeth Sreenivasan in lead roles for the first time, has officially begun filming at FISAT College in Ernakulam.

The film is described as a full-length campus picture and is set for an extensive 80-day shooting schedule. “ATHIRADI” marks the directorial debut of Arun Anirudhan, who was one of the scriptwriters for “Minnal Murali.”

The film’s title teaser, which was released last week, has received a massive audience response. It was launched simultaneously in five languages—Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada—mirroring the style of major South Indian film announcements. The teaser strongly suggests that “ATHIRADI” will be a mass-action entertainer designed to thrill theater audiences.

This project signifies a major reunion, bringing together ‘Minnal Murali’ collaborators Tovino Thomas, Basil Joseph, co-producer Sameer Thahir, and director Arun Anirudhan.

The film is produced by Basil Joseph under the banner of Basil Joseph Entertainment and by Dr. Ananthu S under Dr. Ananthu S Entertainment. Actor Tovino Thomas and director-cinematographer Sameer Thahir have also joined the project as co-producers.

The screenplay is co-written by Paulson Skaria and Arun Anirudhan. The film’s music is composed by the acclaimed Vishnu Vijay. The technical crew includes Samuel Henry as the Director of Photography, Chaman Chakko as the Editor, and Maanav Suresh as the Production Designer.

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