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Delhi Sweet Shop Owner Urges ‘Most Eligible Bachelor’ Rahul Gandhi: “Get Married Soon!”

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Delhi Sweet Shop Owner Urges ‘Most Eligible Bachelor’ Rahul Gandhi: “Get Married Soon!”

NEW DELHI: Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, received a heartfelt and slightly entrepreneurial nudge during his recent Diwali visit to a historic Old Delhi landmark. Sushant Jain, the owner of the renowned Ghantewala sweet shop, publicly urged the politician to tie the knot soon, with the motivation of landing a high-profile wedding sweets order.

​Mr. Gandhi’s impromptu visit to the centuries-old shop on the occasion of Diwali quickly turned into a viral moment. While trying his hand at making the shop’s famous Imarti and Besan Laddus, the political leader was playfully pressed on his personal life by the owner.

​”All of India is talking about him being the most eligible bachelor,” Jain told news agencies. “I said, ‘Rahul ji, please get married soon — we’re waiting, so that we can get the order for your wedding sweets too.'”

​Jain, who also revealed that Mr. Gandhi’s late father, Rajiv Gandhi, had a fondness for Imarti, warmly welcomed the MP, encouraging him to make and taste the traditional sweets. Mr. Gandhi later took to social media to share his experience, noting the “pure, traditional, and heart-touching” sweetness of the prestigious shop.

​The exchange highlights a lighthearted moment during the festive season, with a shop owner’s candid request putting the perennial question of Mr. Gandhi’s marriage back into the public spotlight—and ensuring a potential business opportunity for Delhi’s sweet-making institution.

Basil Joseph, Tovino Thomas, and Sameer Thahir Team Up for ‘ATHIRADI’; Filming Begins

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Basil Joseph, Tovino Thomas, and Sameer Thahir Team Up for ‘ATHIRADI’; Filming Begins

Kochi: The cameras have officially started rolling for the new Malayalam film titled ‘ATHIRADI’. The project, which marks the directorial debut of Arun Anirudhan, is already generating significant buzz due to its powerhouse production team.

‘ATHIRADI’ is produced by Dr. Ananthu S and acclaimed actor-director Basil Joseph, known for ‘Minnal Murali’, under their respective banners, Dr. Ananthu S Entertainment and Basil Joseph Entertainment.

In a major collaboration, actor Tovino Thomas and renowned director-cinematographer Sameer Thahir have also joined the project as co-producers, elevating the film’s anticipation.

The film is written by Paulson Skaria along with director Arun Anirudhan. The technical crew boasts several prominent names from the industry, including Vishnu Vijay handling the music and Samuel Henry as the Director of Photography (DOP). Chaman Chakko will serve as the editor.

The crew also includes Maanav Suresh (Production Designer), Mashar Hamsa (Costume Designer), Ronex Xavier (Makeup), and Nixon George (Sound Designer). The film’s PR is managed by Vaisakh C Vadakkeveedu and Jinu Anilkumar.

Political Palate: Rahul Gandhi Tries His Hand at Imarti and Laddoo Making at Legendary Ghantewala

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Political Palate: Rahul Gandhi Tries His Hand at Imarti and Laddoo Making at Legendary Ghantewala

New Delhi : ​In a sweet diversion from the political arena, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was recently spotted immersed in the centuries-old tradition of Indian sweets making at Ghantewala Sweets in Old Delhi. The historic establishment, whose legacy stretches back generations, served as the backdrop for Gandhi’s culinary efforts, which he shared with his followers on Facebook.

​Gandhi posted about his experience, noting he “recently tried my hand at making imarti and besan laddoo” at the legendary shop. His post was not just a comment on the confectionery, but also a reflection on tradition and community.

​”Even today, its sweetness remains the same – authentic, traditional, and deeply heartwarming,” he wrote, praising Ghantewala’s enduring quality.

​The visit, timed just ahead of the Diwali festival, led Gandhi to draw a connection between the festive treats and the essence of the celebration itself.

​”After all, the true flavor of Diwali isn’t found only in the sweets we serve, but also in our relationships and the joy we spread within our communities,” he concluded.

​Gandhi used the opportunity to engage his audience, asking, “How are you celebrating Diwali this year, and what are you doing to make it truly special?”

​The post, which quickly garnered attention, highlights a softer side of the political leader and underscores the significance of cultural heritage and community bonds during the festive season.

‘Twists Like Garbage’: Jeethu Joseph’s ‘Mirage’ Heavily Trolled After OTT Release

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‘Twists Like Garbage’: Jeethu Joseph’s ‘Mirage’ Heavily Trolled After OTT Release

KOCHI: ‘Mirage,’ the Jeethu Joseph directorial starring Asif Ali and Aparna Balamurali, has begun streaming on OTT. The film, which received a mixed response during its theatrical run, is now facing a fresh wave of heavy criticism and trolling following its digital release.

The primary complaint, which has intensified since the film landed on SonyLIV, is the excessive number of plot twists. Viewers have taken to social media platforms like ‘X’ to express their disappointment.

Comments such as “Got a headache after watching this” and “Felt completely exhausted and drained” are flooding social media feeds. The film’s technical aspects are also under fire, with many criticizing its overall making.

Several users have labeled ‘Mirage’ as Jeethu Joseph’s weakest film to date. Opinions suggest that neither the visuals nor the editing met the high standards expected from the acclaimed director.

The film is being widely trolled for its overabundance of twists, with many arguing that despite their quantity, they fail to create any significant impact. “It feels like they wrote the twists first and then stitched together a script just to present them,” one user remarked.

‘Mirage’, which marks the second collaboration between Jeethu Joseph and Asif Ali after ‘Kooman’, started streaming today. Produced by E4 Experiments, the film also features Hanna Reji Koshy, Hakkim Shah, Deepak Parambol, Sampath Raj, and Saravanan in key roles. The cinematography was handled by Satheesh Kurup and the editing by Vinayak.

Kerala Eyes Welfare Pension Hike to ₹1800 Ahead of Local Polls; Major Announcement Expected Soon

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Kerala Eyes Welfare Pension Hike to ₹1800 Ahead of Local Polls; Major Announcement Expected Soon

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala state government is actively considering an increase in the monthly welfare pension as the local self-government elections approach. A proposal to raise the pension by ₹200, from the current ₹1600 to ₹1800, is under active review by the Finance Department.

A significant announcement regarding this decision is widely expected on Kerala Piravi Day (November 1).

This proposed hike stands to directly benefit nearly 6 million (60 lakh) recipients across the state. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) had made a prominent electoral promise to incrementally increase the pension amount to ₹2500.

The last increase took place in 2021, during the final phase of the first Pinarayi Vijayan-led government, which set the amount at ₹1600. However, no subsequent hikes were implemented over the last three years, largely attributed to the state’s severe financial crisis.

With local elections imminent, followed by other electoral contests, the government is accelerating the move to increase the pension. The Finance Department is reportedly aiming to implement at least the ₹200 raise. Alongside the hike, a decision to disburse one month of pending pension arrears is also anticipated.

Government sources indicate that the Kerala Piravi Day announcements might also include critical decisions on other welfare measures, such as government employee salary revisions, pending Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears, and an increase in the honorarium for ASHA workers.

Recent protests held by leftist service organizations in front of the Secretariat, demanding action on these issues, are now being viewed by some as a strategic move in anticipation of the government’s upcoming announcements.

Saregama Secures ‘Athibheekara Kamukan’ Audio Rights for Record-Breaking Sum

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Saregama Secures ‘Athibheekara Kamukan’ Audio Rights for Record-Breaking Sum

Kochi: The audio rights for the highly anticipated Lukman Avaran-starrer, ‘Athibheekara Kamukan’, have been acquired by the music giant Saregama for a record sum. The film, a romantic comedy family entertainer, is directed by the duo CC Nithin and Gautham Thaniyil.

Producers confirmed that music is a cornerstone of the film, designed to appeal across generations, from children to young adults. The soundtrack is composed by Bibin Ashok, with lyrics penned by Sujai Mohanraj. The album features a lineup of prominent artists, including popular singer Sid Sriram and rapper Fejo.

Bibin Ashok is a rapidly rising talent in the music industry, having previously composed the trending ‘Onam Mood’ song for the film ‘Sahasam’. His debut was with the film ‘Thaanuppu’, and he recently garnered praise for the songs and background score of ‘Mandakini’.

‘Athibheekara Kamukan’ is produced by Deepthi Gautham, Gautham Thaniyil, V. Mathiyalakan, and Sam George under the banners of Pink Bison Studios and Etcetrra Entertainments. The film stars Drishya Raghunath as the female lead, alongside Manohari Joy, Ashwin, and Karthik in pivotal roles.

Following a strong buzz generated by its posters on social media, the film is set for a pan-Indian release. It will hit theaters on November 14 in five languages: Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Century Release will manage the film’s distribution.

Bureaucratic Exodus: Kerala Faces Governance Paralysis as Over 30 Top IAS Officers Flee to Central Deputation Amid Political Tensions

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Bureaucratic Exodus: Kerala Faces Governance Paralysis as Over 30 Top IAS Officers Flee to Central Deputation Amid Political Tensions

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM—The administration in Kerala is facing a severe crisis as a significant number of senior All India Services (AIS) officers—comprising both IAS and IPS cadres—are securing central deputations, reportedly driven by strained relationships with the state’s current political executive.

​This ongoing exodus is combining with the existing financial crunch to push the state towards what political observers are terming “governance paralysis” or administrative stagnation.

​The numbers are alarming: already, approximately 30 IAS officers are reported to be on central deputation. The movement is now accelerating, fueled by a growing sense of uncertainty among the bureaucracy regarding the state’s political future.

​Sources indicate that even IAS officials considered close confidants of the Chief Minister are now actively seeking central assignments. This rush for Central Deputation is widely attributed to the prevailing consensus in state political circles that a change in government is highly likely in the 2026 assembly elections. Officers are allegedly attempting to pre-emptively secure positions outside the state before a new administration takes charge.

​The scarcity of senior and experienced IAS officers is crippling key departments, delaying crucial decision-making, and adding immense pressure on the remaining civil servants. The immediate challenge for the state leadership is not only managing the critical financial deficit but also finding experienced personnel to fill vital administrative vacancies left by the departing officers.

Diwali’s Deep Roots: Unpacking the 4 Triumphant Legends Behind the Festival of Lights

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Diwali’s Deep Roots: Unpacking the 4 Triumphant Legends Behind the Festival of Lights

NEW DELHI—The annual festival of Diwali, or Deepavali, is much more than just a spectacular display of lights and fireworks; it is a profound celebration rooted in powerful ancient legends, all of which symbolise the universal theme of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

​The primary narratives that illuminate the significance of this ‘Festival of Lights’ include the victorious return of Lord Rama, the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna, the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi, and the attainment of Nirvana by Mahavira.

​The Key Legends

​1. The Return of Lord Rama:

One of the most prominent legends revolves around the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Diwali marks the day Lord Rama, his consort Sita, and brother Lakshmana returned to their kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and a great victory over the demon-king Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya famously lit rows of earthen lamps (diyas) to illuminate their path on the dark new moon night (Amavasya), welcoming their beloved prince home.

​2. The Defeat of Narakasura:

Another crucial tale connects Diwali to Lord Krishna. According to this legend, the festival commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the wicked demon king Narakasura, who was terrorising the gods and humans alike. His defeat freed thousands of captive women and restored peace, an event that is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi, often referred to as Choti Diwali, falling on the day before the main festival.

​3. The Incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi:

Diwali is also inextricably linked to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. It is widely believed that Mahalaxmi emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) on the day of Diwali. Devotees perform special poojas (worship rituals) on this day, lighting lamps to invite the Goddess’s blessings of wealth and prosperity into their clean and welcoming homes.

​4. Mahavira’s Nirvana:

Beyond Hinduism, Diwali holds immense significance for the Jain community. For Jains, the day commemorates the Nirvana (liberation/enlightenment) of Mahavira, the last of the Jain Tirthankaras. The lighting of lamps is seen as a way to remember and celebrate the light of his divine knowledge, which guides the path to enlightenment.

​All these diverse yet harmonious legends affirm Diwali’s central message: the ultimate victory of righteousness (dharma) over malevolence, serving as a powerful reminder to celebrate the inner light of knowledge and goodness that dispels the darkness of ignorance.

Louvre Heist: Robbers Flee with Napoleon’s ‘Priceless Jewellery’ in Daring 7-Minute Raid

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Louvre Heist: Robbers Flee with Napoleon’s ‘Priceless Jewellery’ in Daring 7-Minute Raid

​Paris, France — The world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris was abruptly closed on Sunday after a brazen, lightning-fast robbery saw thieves escape with “priceless jewellery,” including pieces from the collection of Napoleon and the Empress.

​The stunning heist, which reportedly lasted a mere seven minutes, targeted the museum’s prized jewellery collection housed in the Apollo Gallery. French Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the robbery early Sunday morning, stating, “A robbery took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum. No injuries reported. I’m on the site with museum staff and police.”

​According to police sources, the operation was executed with dramatic efficiency. The robbers reportedly arrived on a scooter, equipped with small chainsaws, and gained entry via the museum’s under-construction Seine-facing facade. They then utilized a goods lift to reach the Apollo Gallery, where they broke windows and seized their targets.

​Interior Minister Laurent Nunez later confirmed the short duration of the crime and the value of the stolen goods, reporting that “priceless jewellery” was taken. French daily Le Parisien suggested the haul included “nine pieces from the jewellery collection of Napoleon and the Empress.” The value of the stolen items is currently under rigorous evaluation.

​The world’s most visited museum, which houses masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, has cited “exceptional reasons” for its immediate and full-day closure as police and security teams sweep the premises and launch a full-scale investigation into the daring security breach.

​While the Louvre is celebrated for its security, it has a history of high-profile thefts, including the infamous 1911 disappearance of the Mona Lisa. The latest incident, involving chainsaws and a meticulously planned escape, raises serious questions about the security protocols at one of the world’s most valuable cultural institutions.

India Ramps Up Banking Consolidation: Nine PSBs Face Mega-Merger by 2027

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India Ramps Up Banking Consolidation: Nine PSBs Face Mega-Merger by 2027

NEW DELHI : The Indian central government is reportedly accelerating its plan for a massive consolidation of Public Sector Banks (PSBs), aiming to reduce the number of state-owned lenders to just three major entities by the fiscal year 2026-27. This ambitious move is driven by a strategy to create Indian banking giants capable of competing on the global stage, with the goal of propelling at least two Indian PSBs into the world’s top 20 list.

​The consolidation effort is expected to involve the merger of nine smaller, performing banks into three major anchor institutions: State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), and Canara Bank.

​High-Performing Banks on the Block

​The reported plan, which has not yet been officially confirmed by the Finance Ministry, has already sparked significant concern among bank employees.

​In a recent communication to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) Employees and Officers Federation voiced their anxiety. BoM is reportedly among the lenders earmarked for a merger with SBI. The federation pointed out that BoM has consistently been one of the top-performing PSBs in the country, showcasing superior growth in both profitability and loan books compared to its peers. They requested immediate clarification from the Finance Ministry to address the rising concerns among employees, depositors, and customers.

​The Proposed Merger Roadmap

​Reports suggest that the government aims to finalize the mergers by FY 2026-27. The proposed grouping is designed to create three powerful lending institutions capable of financing major national projects and improving overall efficiency.

​The speculated mergers are:

  1. ​Into State Bank of India (SBI): Bank of Maharashtra, UCO Bank, and Punjab & Sind Bank.
  2. ​Into Punjab National Bank (PNB): Bank of Baroda, Central Bank of India, and Indian Overseas Bank.
  3. ​Into Canara Bank: Union Bank, Indian Bank, and Bank of India.

​The government’s primary motivation is scale. Currently, SBI, India’s largest lender, ranks only 47th globally in terms of asset size. The planned mega-merger seeks to elevate the stature of these consolidated entities, challenging the dominance of global players, particularly the top four Chinese banks.

​This is not the first round of consolidation; previous efforts in 2017 and 2019 had already reduced the number of PSBs from 27 to 12. The current initiative represents a final push to bring the count down to just three major banks.

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