In a high-stakes late-night encounter on 6 August, a notorious mafia gang member from Jharkhand, Ashish Ranjan alias Chhotu Singh, was gunned down by the Special Task Force (STF) of Uttar Pradesh in the Shankargarh area of Prayagraj.
The criminal, armed with an AK-47 and a 9 mm pistol, opened fire at the STF team when intercepted, prompting a retaliatory response that led to his death. Originally from J.C. Malik Road in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, Ashish Ranjan was wanted in multiple murder cases and carried a reward on his head. Acting on a tip-off that he was planning a major crime near Shivrajpur Chauraha in Shankargarh, STF Inspector J.P. Rai and his team laid an ambush. When confronted, Ashish Ranjan attempted to flee while firing at the officers, narrowly missing several personnel. He was critically injured in the crossfire and later declared dead at the hospital. Weapons recovered from the scene included an AK-47, a 9 mm pistol, numerous cartridges, and a motorcycle.
Authorities confirmed his involvement in several heinous crimes and praised the STF’s swift action in neutralising the threat. In another operation, the police and SWAT team had an encounter with Naveed, the main accused in a robbery that occurred on August 4 in the Shikarpur area of Bulandshahr. Naveed was injured in the retaliatory firing and was arrested in a wounded condition before being shifted to the district hospital. Police recovered over Rs 2.11 lakh in cash, a pistol, live and empty cartridges, a backpack, and a motorcycle from his possession. Four of Naveed’s accomplices have already been arrested, and law enforcement officials recovered a total of Rs 6.98 lakh from the looted amount, marking a 100 per cent recovery in the case.
-IANS
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In recent days, political analysts have raised concerns about whether Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is truly acting as the opposition leader within India’s Parliament or serving the interests of foreign powers. Critics argue that his statements and actions suggest a misplaced loyalty, potentially favoring adversaries who oppose India’s growth. Several instances have been cited to support this claim.
One major point of contention has been Gandhi’s repeated criticism by the judiciary for misleading and false statements. Most recently, on 8 August 2025, the Supreme Court reprimanded him for remarks during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, where he claimed that Chinese forces were overpowering Indian soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh, referencing the December 2022 Tawang sector incident.
The Bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Joymalya Bagchi questioned Gandhi’s assertion that China had occupied 2,000 square kilometers of Indian territory. They asked whether he had credible evidence and remarked that“if he were a true Indian, he would not have said all this.” The Court also questioned why such claims were made on social media instead of in Parliament.
Similarly, the Allahabad High Court criticized Gandhi over the same statements, rejecting his plea against a summons related to alleged defamatory remarks against the Indian Army. The Court emphasized that while freedom of speech is protected under Article 19(1)(a), it does not extend to statements that defame the Army.
Gandhi has publicly questioned why Indian media did not highlight the supposed Chinese incursion or the casualties suffered by Indian soldiers. These statements, critics argue, exaggerate the situation and project a negative narrative.
Earlier, in April 2025, the Supreme Court also took exception to Gandhi’s comments on freedom fighter V. D. Savarkar, staying criminal defamation proceedings while warning against making irresponsible statements about freedom fighters. The bench cautioned that freedom fighters deserved respect and that political leaders should not use their names carelessly.
In 2019, the Supreme Court had similarly rebuked Gandhi for his “Chowkidar Chor Hai” campaign remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, criticizing him for misrepresenting the Court’s stance. The bench advised Gandhi to be more careful and accept mistakes rather than attempting to justify them with lengthy affidavits.
Critics further allege that Gandhi and his team are shaping narratives to favor foreign interests, including political figures like Donald Trump, rather than focusing on India’s national priorities. Records from the UK’s Companies House indicate that Rahul Gandhi holds British citizenship.
Additionally, his business partner, Ulrik McKnight, is a US citizen engaged in defense-related ventures.
The Indian branch of their company reportedly received substantial funds from foreign sources without transparent disclosure.
These revelations have fueled speculation that Gandhi’s foreign ties and business interests may be influencing his political actions. Critics argue that his British citizenship renders him ineligible for the posts of Member of Parliament and Leader of the Opposition, raising serious questions about his allegiance to India.
(This article is based on an X Thread By Vijay Gajera)
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India and Russia have reaffirmed their strategic partnership by signing a Protocol to deepen cooperation in aluminium, fertilisers, railways, and mining technology.
At the 11th session of the India-Russia Working Group on Modernisation and Industrial Cooperation here, the two sides welcomed enhanced engagement in aluminium, fertilisers, and railway transport, alongside capacity building and technology transfer in mining sector equipment, exploration, and industrial and domestic waste management.
The meeting was held under the framework of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. From the Indian side, the session was co-chaired by Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and Alexey Gruzdev, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, from the Russian side.
The meeting reviewed the progress made since the 10th session and provided a platform to strengthen cooperation across key sectors. Discussions included updates from the sub-groups on modernisation, mining, fertilisers, and railway transport, as well as emerging areas of collaboration. Key focus areas included cooperation in aerospace science and technology, including the establishment of a modernised wind tunnel facility, production of small aircraft piston engines, and joint development in carbon fibre technology, additive manufacturing, and 3D printing.
Both sides also explored opportunities in rare earth and critical minerals extraction, underground coal gasification, and creation of modern industrial infrastructure. The meeting concluded with the signing of the Protocol of the 11th Session by both co-chairs, reaffirming the strategic India-Russia partnership and shared commitment to deepen industrial and economic cooperation. The session saw participation from around 80 delegates representing both sides, including senior government officials, domain experts, and representatives from industry, the Commerce Ministry said.
-IANS
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The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Gangai Konda Cholapuram, commemorating both the birth anniversary of Rajendra Chola and the thousand-year milestone of his maritime expedition, seems to have unsettled certain ideological quarters.
In response, there have been attempts to downplay the Chola legacy and portray them in a negative light. A recent article in a newspaper is one such example, riddled with factual inaccuracies, misleading interpretations, and anachronistic judgments about Rajendra Chola’s Gangetic expedition and his reign.
It is no surprise that a book by Kanisetti is quoted frequently in the article, a work that contains more fiction than verified history about the Cholas.
Let us be clear. No one claims that ancient India was devoid of warfare. The epic battle of Kurukshetra itself is a testament to this. Many dynasties ruled various parts of the subcontinent, and conflicts among them were not uncommon. In Tamil Nadu, the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas were engaged in frequent battles since the Sangam era. However, these conflicts were typically confined to the battlefield. Yes, there were occasional excesses, as is common in the course of wars, but they remained exceptions.
A verse from the Sangam classic Purananuru captures the ethics of war. The Pandya king Palyagasalai Muthukudumi Peruvazhuthi, known for his fierce campaigns, declared through his army, “Cows, Brahmins devoted to natural duties, women, the sick, and those without heirs, please move away as our arrows will be unleashed soon.” This was the war dharma practiced by our kings.
The author of the article does not seem to be aware of what actually happened at Gangai Konda Cholapuram just a week ago, let alone have the authority to write about events from a thousand years ago. The article begins by claiming that the Prime Minister carried “a traditional kodam or jug of water from the Ganga to pour into a tank.” In reality, the Gangajal was used for performing abhishekam to the presiding deity, Gangai Konda Choleeswarar, not poured into a tank. This is clearly visible in the visuals from the event.
The article further states that “the BJP adopted the Tamil god Murugan,” indicating its ideological slant. Gods do not belong to any one language or region. Murugan, also known as Kartikeya or Skanda, is revered across India. Inscriptions refer to a Murugan temple in Abbottabad, Pakistan. The Yaudheyas worshipped Skanda as their guardian deity and minted coins bearing his image. The Guptas built several temples for Skanda. Thus, the label of “Tamil God” is both misleading and divisive.
The article makes another fundamental error by stating that Rajendra Chola conquered the Cheras and Pallavas. The Pallavas had ceased to exist as a ruling power long before Rajendra’s time. Aditya Chola had defeated the last Pallava king, Aparajitha, in 897 CE, marking the end of the Pallava dynasty. There was nothing left for Rajendra to conquer on that front.
It goes on to claim that Rajendra was seeking ritual confirmation of his status as emperor. This demonstrates a complete ignorance of Chola records. The Thiruvalangadu copper plates clearly state that the purpose of Rajendra’s northern expedition was to bring the sacred waters of the Ganga to sanctify his newly established capital and temple at Gangai Konda Cholapuram.
It was customary to consecrate a new capital or temple with sacred water. Rajendra undertook a Digvijaya, a ceremonial conquest, to bring the Ganga water. Along the way, he faced resistance, particularly from the Western Chalukyas who had allied with northern kings such as Indraratha. Rajendra, in turn, had alliances with King Bhoja of the Paramaras and Gangeya of the Kalachuris. A strong army was dispatched to ensure safe passage. The military engagements were incidental to the main objective of sanctification, as reiterated in the Karandai and Esalam copper plates, which also compare Rajendra with Bhagiratha who brought Ganga to earth as per our Puranas.
The article then cites Kanisetti’s book to claim that Rajendra’s army “killed, raped, and plundered” its way to the north. This is an unsubstantiated and baseless claim. None of Rajendra’s inscriptions or Meikeerthi mention such acts. They only document victories over kingdoms. The accusation that Rajendra’s army sacked temples and stole idols is equally baseless. Rajendra was a devoted Shaivite, calling himself “Shiva Charana Sekhara.” Why would such a ruler desecrate temples? For instance, a temple at Mahendragiri in Odisha contains a Tamil inscription by Rajendra, and the temple stands intact even today. In fact, Chola kings often made donations to temples in conquered regions, a fact that completely contradicts the article’s narrative.
The article also mocks the practice of bringing idols from other regions, quoting Kanisetti’s speculative statement that it is “difficult to believe that these idols were obtained without extreme violence.” This is mere conjecture. Chola records mention that some idols were given as gifts. At Gangai Konda Cholapuram, Rajendra built a separate shrine for the Mahishasuramardini idol brought from Chalukya territory, where she was revered as a war goddess.
Mahishasura Mardhini Shrine at Gangai Konda Cholapuram
A Ganesha idol from Bengal is still worshipped as “Gangaikonda Ganapathi” in a Kumbakonam temple. These idols were housed in temples and treated with reverence. Calling temples “less respectable places” only reveals the bias of those unfamiliar with temple traditions.
The article makes another glaring factual error in stating that “in 1025, Rajaraja stormed Kedah in Sumatra,” when in fact, Rajaraja had passed away in 1014. Kedah is in the Malay Peninsula, not in Sumatra. Moreover, the Srivijaya Empire was not thrown into chaos for a century. In fact, post-expedition, the Cholas maintained cordial relations with Srivijaya. Inscriptions record that Vira Rajendra mediated a succession dispute within Srivijaya, and Kulottunga I even spent time in the region and built temples there.
It is also worth noting that the celebration of Adi Thiruvathirai at Gangai Konda Cholapuram was initiated by local history enthusiasts, not by Dravidian ideologues. Ironically, the same ideologues have in the past accused the Cholas of favouring Brahmins, a baseless allegation with no historical support.
The article includes a veiled comparison, implying that Rajendra’s expedition was akin to the later Islamic invasions. This is not only historically inaccurate but deeply offensive. The invasions led by the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals were marked by temple destruction and massacres. Ulugh Khan, also known as Muhammad bin Tughlaq, is recorded to have killed 12,000 devotees. According to Amir Khusrau, Malik Kafur destroyed the Chidambaram temple and slaughtered Brahmins who defended it. There is no comparable evidence of such violence during Rajendra’s campaign. Moreover, the Cholas never annexed northern territories, as that was never their objective.
To conclude, at a time when the country is rediscovering its civilisational legacy through events like the Gangai Konda Cholapuram celebrations, attempts to distort history and equate dharmic kings with foreign invaders are deeply disingenuous. The facts of history do not support the narrative that Hindu kings were looters or temple destroyers. These are speculative imaginations of individuals who pose as historians without offering credible evidence.
TS Krishnan is a Tamil scholar, historian and author of the book The Cholas.
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A Hindu organisation has filed a petition against the Dravidar Kazhagam functionary, Ramesh, who referred Hindus as “sons of prostitutes” during a Christian gathering in Kumbakonam on 4 August 2025. The event was organised to protest the arrest of Catholic missionaries in Chhattisgarh over allegations of forced conversions among tribal communities.
In the video the Dravidar Kazhagam functionary said, “The reason, what they (the opposition) give is they are converting people. This very idea is a fraudulent one. Today, people are clear. If a person from one religion wants to go to another religion, they think, they act, they fully internalize that idea, and if they wish, they go. No one is forced, compelled, given money, or given goods to do so… All these things they say are false accusations. They are snatching away freedom of expression. How is that? What accusation was leveled against Jesus Christ? When Jesus Christ was arrested and brought before the assembly, what did the arresting government say? They said, “He is inciting a revolution.” They made that same accusation then. And what are they doing today? Look. Fear is coming to the ruling class. That’s why they have imprisoned these sisters today. Rather than being an untouchable, rather than being a Pulaiyan, rather than being a Pallan, rather than being a Paraiyan, one can be a Christian. One can be a Muslim. We welcome it. Periyar said, “Rather than being the son of a prostitute, the son of a Devadasi in the Hindu religion, you should go to another religion as a self-respecting human being.”
The video of Ramesh’s remarks quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage. In response, Vasudevan, coordinator of the Federation of Hindu Associations, submitted an official online complaint to the Tamil Nadu police, urging immediate action against the speaker.
The gathering, which took place at the Old Fish Market in Kumbakonam, included leaders from various Christian denominations, political parties, and other organisations. The stated purpose was to protest the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh who faced charges related to human trafficking and forced religious conversions. While the nuns were later granted bail, their detention sparked political outrage, with parties such as Congress, Left, RJD, SP, TMC, DMK, VCK, and NTK highlighting the incident to portray the BJP as anti-minority. Critics argue that these parties aimed to deflect attention from proselytisation activities by Christian groups.
In his complaint, Vasudevan stated that Ramesh’s speech was highly offensive and specifically targeted Hindus. “I am the coordinator of the Federation of Hindu Associations. On the 4th, a public meeting was held to denounce the arrest of nuns in Chhattisgarh. At this meeting, Ramesh, son of Peter and a Dravidar Kazhagam functionary, made highly disparaging remarks about Hindus. His video, which has gone viral, shows him calling Hindus ‘sons of prostitutes’, targeting the community specifically. Despite the presence of women in the audience, whose visible reactions reflected discomfort, he continued unabated. His words were offensive and constitute a blatant case of hate speech. The Supreme Court has repeatedly stressed that such speech has no place in a civilised society and must be dealt with sternly,” he said.
Vasudevan added that freedom of expression cannot be used to incite caste or communal tensions and urged the DMK government to hold Ramesh and others on stage accountable for failing to prevent or condemn his remarks.
Ramesh reportedly defended his statement by citing EV Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar), a tactic frequently employed to avoid legal consequences. Critics, however, argue that this reflects a long-standing pattern of anti-Hindu rhetoric from certain Dravidian leaders.
Past incidents are often cited to illustrate this trend. In 2022, DMK MP A. Raja reportedly remarked during a ceremony commemorating Dravidar Kazhagam leader K. Veeramani that Shudras and Hindus were treated as untouchables and children of prostitutes. Similarly, VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan, in a 2020 webinar on “Periyar and Feminism,” claimed that Hindu women were considered “prostitutes” under Sanatana Dharma and highlighted their historical exploitation.
Critics argue that despite multiple complaints over such derogatory statements, Tamil Nadu police have rarely taken action against leaders from DMK, VCK, or Christian evangelists. By contrast, social media activists associated with Hindu organisations or those critical of Chief Minister Stalin or minority communities are often swiftly targeted. This selective approach, they claim, exposes an evident bias in law enforcement.
A major controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu’s literary and political circles after the Azhwar Research Centre, headed by DMK MP Jagathrakshakan, announced that poet and lyricist and MeToo accused Vairamuthu will be conferred the prestigious Kavi Chakravarthy Kamban Award during the upcoming golden jubilee celebrations of the Kamban Vizha.
The announcement has drawn sharp condemnation from various sections of the Tamil cultural community and political leaders. Critics have expressed anger over the selection of Vairamuthu, who in the past faced severe backlash for his remarks on Andal, a revered Tamil poet-saint considered divine by Tamil Hindus. Many allege that honouring him with an award named after Kamban, the celebrated author of the Tamil Ramayana, amounts to an insult to Tamil Hindu heritage.
BJP state secretary Aswathaman took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the decision, stating, “An award for Vairamuthu for his filth?! Is it permissible to tarnish Kamban’s name?! It has been announced that the Kavi Chakravarthy Kamban Award will be presented to Vairamuthu on behalf of the Alwars Research Centre of DMK MP Jagathratchagan. Many Tamil enthusiasts are expressing outrage, stating that this tarnishes the name of Kavi Chakravarthy Kamban. The community that celebrates Kamban is in uproar, questioning whether the Kamban Award should be given to a scoundrel who wrote an article casting great blame on Andal. It has been announced that this award will be presented to Vairamuthu at an event presided over by Chief Minister Stalin. If you are eager to give an award to Vairamuthu, give it in the name of Karunanidhi or E.V. Ramasamy! But do not attempt to tarnish the name of Kavi Chakravarthy Kamban. The Alwars Research Centre and the Chennai Kamban Kazhagam must withdraw this award announcement. This award should be given to another deserving individual.”
திமுக எம் பி ஜெகத்ரட்சகன் அவர்களது ஆழ்வார்கள் ஆய்வு மையம் சார்பாக கவிச்சக்கரவர்த்தி கம்பன் விருது வைரமுத்து அவர்களுக்கு வழங்கப்படுவதாக அறிவிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. இது கவிச்சக்கரவர்த்தி கம்பனின் பெயரை களங்கப்படுத்துவதாக உள்ளது… pic.twitter.com/iNrHnqxXSG
The ceremony is scheduled to be presented on August 8 at AVM Rajeshwari Kalyana Mandapam in Chennai as part of a three-day event (Aug 8–10) organized by the Chennai Chamber of Commerce and Kamban Kazhagam, celebrating 51 years of the Kamban Vizha.
The event is expected to feature key dignitaries including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who is slated to preside over the award ceremony. Others listed to attend include singer Nithyashree Mahadevan, orator Suki Sivam, and several scholars and cultural personalities. The ceremony also includes book releases and special lectures under the banner “Kamban Vizha – 2025.”
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Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) said on Wednesday that 16 Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels, and one official ship were detected operating around Taiwan until 6 am (local time) on Wednesday.
According to Taiwan’s MND, eight out of 16 People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and eastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).
In response to Chinese military activity, Taiwan’s armed forces monitored the situation and deployed aircraft, naval vessels, and a coastal-based missile system. “16 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 16 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded,” the MND posted on X.
This latest incursion follows a recent pattern of Chinese military activity near Taiwan. Earlier on Tuesday, Taiwan reported that 12 Chinese military aircraft, five naval vessels and one official ship were tracked operating near Taiwan. According to the statement, Taiwan forces monitored the situation and responded to Chinese military action.
In a post on X, the MND wrote: “12 sorties of PLA aircraft, 5 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 12 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded.”
Similarly, on Monday, the MND stated that five Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels and one official ship were spotted operating near Taiwan. According to it, four out of five sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).
“5 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 4 out of 5 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded,” it said in a statement shared on X. Taiwan, officially the Republic of China (ROC), continues to be governed independently since 1949.
However, Taiwan continues to face threats from China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory under the “One China” principle, insists on its reunification with Beijing. Despite China’s efforts, Taiwan, backed by strong public support, continues to assert its sovereignty and respond to China’s incursions.
-IANS
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday dedicated the newly constructed Kartavya Bhavan to the nation, asserting that this new construction reflects the Centre’s commitment to building a ‘Viksit’ and ‘Atmanirbhar‘ India.
He inaugurated the Kartavya Bhavan-03 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi earlier in the day and also visited an exhibition related to the construction of the Kartavya Bhavan-03, showcasing the building’s modern features and highlighting the aspects of the building constructed to ensure environmental sustainability.
Following this, PM Modi took to X and posted, “Kartavya Bhavan, on the path of duty, is a symbol of our unwavering commitment and continuous efforts toward serving every individual. It will not only help in swiftly delivering our policies and schemes to the people but will also provide a new momentum to the country’s development. I am deeply proud to dedicate this building, an example of state-of-the-art infrastructure, to the nation.”
Stressing that Kartavya Bhavan reflects the Modi government’s “commitment to building a ‘Viksit’ and ‘Atmanirbhar’ India,” the Prime Minister said, “Today, the nation has witnessed the tireless hard work and determination of our labouring brothers who have shaped it. I am extremely delighted to interact with them.”
PM Modi also planted a sapling in the courtyard of the newly constructed complex, aligning with this ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. “Full attention has been given to environmental protection in the construction of Kartavya Bhavan, for which our country is committed. Today, I also got the fortunate opportunity to plant a sapling in its courtyard,” he posted.
Later in the evening, the Prime Minister will address a public gathering at the same venue at approximately 6.30 p.m. The inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan–03 marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Central Vista redevelopment project.
As the first of several upcoming Common Central Secretariat buildings, the new structure is designed to streamline administrative functioning by consolidating various ministries and departments currently operating from scattered locations across Delhi. Kartavya Bhavan-03 spans an area of approximately 1.5 lakh square meters, including two basement levels and seven floors (Ground + 6 levels). It will house several key government offices, including those of the Ministries of Home Affairs, External Affairs, Rural Development, MSME, DoPT, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA).
The state-of-the-art complex integrates modern infrastructure with cutting-edge technology to support efficient and secure governance. The new building will exemplify modern governance infrastructure featuring IT-ready and secure workspaces, ID card-based access controls, integrated electronic surveillance, and a centralised command system.
The facility will promote eco-consciousness through zero-discharge waste management, in-house solid waste processing, e-vehicle charging stations, and extensive use of recycled construction material.
Kartavya Bhavan-03 is designed to consume 30 per cent less energy compared to conventional office buildings. It includes double-glazed facade windows to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce noise, LED lighting with occupancy sensors, energy-efficient lifts, and a centralised energy management system. Solar panels installed on the rooftop will generate over 5.34 lakh units of electricity annually.
-IANS
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Pointing out that they respected the sentiments of the Tamil people, the makers of director Gowtam Tinnanuri’s explosive action entertainer, ‘Kingdom’, featuring actor Vijay Deverakonda in the lead, on Wednesday expressed regret if the sentiments of the people were in some way hurt by their film.
However, the makers also underlined the fact that the film was a completely fictional one and assured Tamil audiences that the film contained no scenes that would hurt their sentiments.
Sithara Entertainments, the production house that has produced the movie, issued a statement on Wednesday in which it said, “We hereby confirm that we respect the sentiments of the Tamil people, and we promise that, there are no such scenes which are involved in the movie that resembling (sic)to hurt the sentiments of the local state people.”
The production house also went on to say that the story of the film was completely fictional and an imaginary one and that this had been “mentioned in the disclaimer portion of the movie.” The production house however went on to say, “In such case, if the sentiments of the people are hurt, we regret for the incident. We kindly request you to support the movie. (sic)”
The production house’s clarification comes in the wake of protests breaking out in Tamil Nadu. The film, which was released worldwide on July 31, has sparked controversy for allegedly portraying Sri Lankan Tamils in a negative light. Tamil nationalist groups, particularly the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), have accused the film-makers of hurting Tamil sentiments.
NTK cadres have alleged that ‘Kingdom’ depicts Sri Lankan Tamils as villains.The party claims the portrayal is not only insensitive but also aimed at maligning the identity and history of the Tamil people.
Written and directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, Kingdom has music by Anirudh Ravichander and editing by Navin Nooli. It has been produced by Naga Vamsi S and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune 4 Cinemas Banners respectively.
The film is being presented by Srikara Studios. Well known costume designer Neeraja Kona is in-charge of the costumes for this film, which has songs choreographed by Vijay Binni. Three stunt choreographers — Yannick Ben, Chethan D’Souza, Real Satis — have worked on the film, which is full of action sequences.
-IANS
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Russia’s Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Aleksandr Fomin on Wednesday held a meeting with Vinay Kumar, India’s Ambassador to Russia, as both sides discussed ways to further intensify the multifaceted India-Russia Special Privileged Strategic Partnership.
“During the talks, the sides discussed topical issues of bilateral cooperation in the defence sphere, confirmed the focus on further strengthening the specialised cooperation in the form of a particularly privileged strategic partnership,” read a statement issued by the Russian Defence Ministry.
“The meeting took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere which is traditional for the Russian-Indian relations,” it added. India has a longstanding and wide-ranging cooperation with Russia in the field of defence which is guided by India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-MMTC) headed by the Defence Ministers of both countries.
As time-tested partners, both countries have been involved in several bilateral projects, including the supply of S-400, licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI, supply of MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov), production of Ak-203 rifles in India and BrahMos missiles.
New Delhi and Moscow acknowledge that the military technical cooperation has evolved over time from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research and development, co-development and joint production of advanced defence technology and systems.
As the Indian Armed Forces successfully retaliated and also inflicted significant losses on Pakistan during the decisive Operation Sindoor in May this year, the S-400 air defence system was credited with shooting down several incoming missiles from across the border.
Considering the strategic planning and military preparedness, New Delhi is set to procure more S-400 air defence systems soon. Meanwhile, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval is also in Moscow, holding meetings with senior Russian officials to discuss India-Russia defence and security cooperation.
The visit comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has announced that he will announce “very substantial” increases to the 25 per cent tariffs on Indian goods because of New Delhi’s oil purchases from Russia. Trump has accused New Delhi of “fuelling the war machine” by buying cheaper Russian oil and selling it for “big profits”.
-IANS
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