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How Dravidianist Media Covered Up Kanyakumari Pastor’s Assault On His Children For Playing With Hindu Neighbours

By
The Commune
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dravidianist media kanyakumari pastor

Just a week ago, a shocking case emerged from Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district where Kingsley Gilbert (45), a Christian pastor, was arrested for violently beating his three children. He reportedly believed they were “possessed by Satan” after they had played with children from Hindu families in the neighborhood.

Despite the shocking religious motive behind the assault, Sun News, the unofficial mouthpiece of the ruling DMK and owned by the DMK’s first family, failed to report these key details. Instead, the outlet shared a watered-down version of events, simply labeling it as the arrest of a “father” for assaulting his 8-year-old son. Their news card described Gilbert only as a “priest” and omitted the religious context that had allegedly triggered the abuse.

Even within the news card merely stated, “Priest Kingsley was arrested for repeatedly assaulting his 8-year-old son with a skipping rope in the Karungal area of Kanyakumari district. A video has surfaced showing the injured boy, sitting with visible wounds, being comforted by children from a neighboring house who say, ‘We will take care of you, okay?’ has sparked stir. District child welfare officials rescued the boy, admitted him to a hospital for treatment, and filed a report with the police.”

The crucial detail that the pastor’s violent actions stemmed from religious intolerance toward his children playing with Hindu neighbors was completely omitted.

Another Dravidianist media, One India Tamil, followed a similar pattern by downplaying the incident. Their report merely quoted the pastor as saying, “I don’t like children going and playing with the neighbors,” omitting the crucial context that the neighbors were from a Hindu background.

Likewise, Daily Thanthi reported the incident in a similar tone, maintaining the same narrative while omitting a key detail that the pastor assaulted the children specifically because they had played with Hindu neighbors.

News18 Tamil Nadu went a step further in downplaying the incident during its primetime segment “Crime Time.” The channel aired the story under the mild headline: “Boy goes out to play… father hits him with skipping rope.” In the accompanying description, they summarized the incident as, “A father has been arrested by police for allegedly brutally attacking his son with a skipping rope after he went to play with the neighborhood boys in Kanyakumari district. Is it a crime for a schoolboy to go out and play?”

Notably, the report carefully omitted crucial facts including that the accused is a Christian pastor and failed to mention that the assault occurred because the children had played with Hindu neighbors, thereby sanitizing the communal and religious aspect of the case.

This selective reporting of Dravidianist media has raised serious concerns about media bias and the suppression of facts tied to religious identity in politically sensitive narratives.

However, the full account reveals a far more disturbing reality.

Kingsley Gilbert, who lives in a rented house in Pullathuvilai near Karungal with his wife Sajini, two sons (aged 8 and 6), and an 8-month-old daughter, is known for preaching at local churches. On 29 May, he reportedly became furious after finding his sons had gone to play with neighboring children who were Hindu. According to police, Gilbert dragged his sons inside and beat them severely using skipping ropes.

The neighborhood grew anxious over persistent screams echoing from Gilbert’s home in the dead of night. Despite repeated attempts to knock, no one answered. The District Child Protection Unit and Karungal police were alerted. Upon arrival, officers forced their way inside and uncovered a disturbing sight: the children were bound, with visible severe injuries and clear evidence of physical abuse. They were promptly rescued, and during preliminary questioning, the children allegedly disclosed that their father’s rage stemmed from their playing with Hindu children.

Further investigations revealed that Gilbert had a history of leaving his children locked indoors while he went to preach. On the day of the attack, the children had wandered out to play at a neighbor’s home. Enraged and allegedly convinced that “evil spirits” had taken over his children due to their interaction with Hindu kids, Gilbert carried out the assault in what he claimed was an act of exorcism. He has since been taken into custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

Kingsley has since been charged under Sections 296(b), 115(2), and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), in addition to Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act. These provisions address obscene acts in public, voluntarily causing hurt, criminal intimidation, and cruelty toward minors, respectively.

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Save Your Life From Thug Life: DMK Stooge Kamal Haasan’s Flop Show Is Torture Max, Not Even Worth An OTT Watch

By
BR Sreenivasan
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kamal haasan thug life dmk stooge benami

Thug Life, the overhyped Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam reunion, is a cinematic trainwreck so abysmal it makes you question how the duo behind the masterful Nayagan could churn out such an illogical, stupid, and utterly deplorable mess.

Calling this a gangster film is an insult to the genre; it’s a disjointed, soulless slog that fails as drama, romance, or even basic entertainment. This isn’t just a bad movie—it’s a torturous betrayal of everything its creators once stood for.

The story, if you can stomach calling it that, centers on mafia don Rangaraya Sakthivel (Haasan) adopting Amaran (Silambarasan TR) in a tired, predictable father-son betrayal arc that’s as fresh as a stale vada. The script is a chaotic dumpster fire, cobbling together clichés from every gangster flick without a shred of originality or logic. It’s not The Godfather—it’s a wannabe Mirzapur with none of the grit or coherence. The pacing is agonizing, stretching to a near-three-hour runtime that feels like an eternity of punishment. A few scattered dialogues land with wit, but they’re like crumbs in a desert of dreadful writing.

Haasan’s performance is a caricature, all bluster and no depth, with his endless, preachy monologues reeking of DMK propaganda. It’s as if he’s campaigning for votes instead of playing a don. His de-aged flashbacks, while visually slick, are hollow, adding nothing to a narrative that’s already brain-dead. Silambarasan TR is the lone spark, delivering raw intensity that the script doesn’t deserve, but even he’s sidelined in a second half that collapses into a vortex of dumb plot twists and uninspired shootouts. Trisha Krishnan’s role is a pathetic afterthought, a romantic subplot so nonexistent it’s almost cruel to call it that. The ensemble cast—Joju George, Ashok Selvan—wastes away in forgettable roles, victims of a script that cares for no one.

Emotion? Zero. The film lacks the heart to be a drama. Romance? Nonexistent, with not a single meaningful connection to root for. Even the music, typically a Mani Ratnam strength, is a letdown—A.R. Rahman’s score tries hard, but the absence of songs like the promised “Mutha Mazhai” leaves a void. Ravi K. Chandran’s cinematography is the only saving grace, capturing Delhi’s underbelly with flair, but it’s lipstick on a pig.

The Karnataka ban over Haasan’s “Kannada is born out of Tamil” remark only highlights the film’s tone-deaf hubris. Thug Life is a cringe-inducing, self-important disaster that disgraces the Nayagan legacy and insults its audience. Save your sanity—avoid this garbage at all costs and rewatch a real gangster classic instead.

Karnataka people, see if you can ban this film forever so that you are spared from torture.

BR Sreenivasan is a political commentator.

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ASI Uncovers 2nd Century Tamil-Brahmi Inscription Linking Sangam Literature To Chera Dynasty

By
The Commune
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tamil-brahmi sangam literature chera dynasty

In a significant archaeological breakthrough, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has uncovered a Tamil Brahmi inscription in Pugalur, located in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district, offering fresh insight into the royal lineage of the ancient Sangam-era Chera dynasty.

Dating back to the 2nd century CE, the inscription names Ilankatunkon, son of Perunkatunkon and grandson of Adan-Cel-Irumporai. It records the donation of a rock shelter to a Jain monk named Cenkayapan from Yarur, made on the occasion of Ilankatunkon being declared heir to the throne.

This inscription is particularly important as it aligns with names found in Sangam literature, especially those of three Chera rulers: Selvakatunkon Vazhi Athan (also known as Ko Athan Cellirumporai), Peruncheral Irumporai (Perunkatunkon), and Ilancheral Irumporai (Ilankatunkon). It reinforces the historical credibility of Sangam texts, suggesting they are more than just literary works—they are rooted in actual historical events.

For instance, Pathitrupathu, a classic Sangam anthology, dedicates ten verses in its seventh decade to King Selvakatunkon Vazhi Athan. It describes him as a devout follower of Mahavishnu and a generous patron of Brahmins. The text notes that his repeated donations, often accompanied by the ritual pouring of water, kept his palace courtyard perpetually soaked.

This newly found inscription adds to the growing body of evidence affirming the Sangam age as a historically verifiable era and offers deeper understanding of the Chera dynasty’s spiritual and cultural landscape.

What Is Tamil-Brahmi Script?

Tamil-Brahmi is an ancient script used to write the early form of the Tamil language, dating back to around the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. It is a regional adaptation of the Brahmi script, which was one of the earliest writing systems of the Indian subcontinent.

While Brahmi was used across India to write Prakrit and Sanskrit, the Tamil-speaking regions adapted it by adding diacritical marks to represent unique Tamil phonemes that weren’t present in Indo-Aryan languages. Tamil-Brahmi was used primarily for inscriptions on caves, potsherds, coins, and rock surfaces. These inscriptions often recorded: Names of donors and kings, Grants to Jain or Buddhist monks, Ownership marks on pottery, and Commercial and trade information

Historical Significance

The discovery of Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions has played a crucial role in confirming the antiquity of the Tamil language and validating the historical content found in Sangam literature. Many of these inscriptions have been found in archaeological sites such as:

  • Adichanallur (Thoothukudi District)
  • Kodumanal (Erode District)
  • Keeladi (Sivagangai District)
  • Pugalur (Karur District)
  • Mangulam (Madurai District)

Some inscriptions date to as early as the 6th century BCE, based on recent stratigraphic and radiocarbon dating, suggesting that Tamil was one of the earliest recorded among Indian languages.

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Radical Islamist Zohran Mamdani Is NYC Mayoral Candidate, He Called PM Modi A “War Criminal” And Made Fake Claims Like “No Gujarati Muslims Left”

By
The Commune
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With the mayoral race heating up in America’s most populous city, one name has emerged as both a rising star and a lightning rod for controversy: Zohran Mamdani. The 33-year-old Democratic Socialist but a concealed radical Islamist and Hinduphobe, currently a member of the New York State Assembly, has gained traction through a slick populist campaign appealing to working-class voters and immigrant communities. But beneath the carefully constructed campaign videos and community outreach lies a disturbing track record of religious divisiveness, inflammatory rhetoric, and open hostility towards India and its Hindu community.

A Populist Pitch With A Polarizing Edge

In his latest campaign video—delivered in fluent Hindi and aimed at Indian-origin voters—Mamdani declared: “Billionaires already have everything. Now, your time has come.” He spoke of rent freezes, free public transport, cheaper groceries, and universal childcare, claiming to have raised $8 million from people-powered donations. Framing the election as a battle between himself and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, Mamdani warned voters that a Cuomo victory would mean “Trump control over New York City,” claiming—without evidence—that Cuomo’s campaign was being funded by Trump-aligned donors.

This video has since gone viral, tapping into populist sentiments among New Yorkers facing skyrocketing rents and economic hardship. But it is also drawing sharp criticism—not for what Mamdani promised, but for what he has long stood for.

Deep Roots, Deeper Divides

Born in Kampala, Uganda to Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan academic Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran moved to New York at age seven. His cosmopolitan upbringing and elite education placed him on a unique trajectory—one that eventually landed him in New York politics. His mother, Nair, is known for films like Monsoon Wedding, Kama Sutra, and The Reluctant Fundamentalist—works celebrated by some and criticized by others for their contentious portrayal of Indian culture and sexuality.

But Mamdani’s political persona is far more aggressive than artistic. A self-avowed critic of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mamdani has repeatedly likened Modi to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, going so far as to call him a “war criminal” during a recent public forum. He cited the 2002 Gujarat riots as justification—failing to mention that India’s Supreme Court had cleared Modi of any involvement after extensive investigations.

In the video, he responds to the question “Modi is holding a rally in Madison Square Garden. He wants to hold a joint press conference with you afterwards reaffirming the strong bond between India and New York. Do you agree to the event?” with this response –

“No, and I just want to say something here which is that. My father, his family comes from Gujarat in India and his family is Muslim, I am Muslim and Narendra Modi helped to orchestrate what was a mass slaughter of Muslims in Gujarat to the extent that we don’t even believe there are Gujarati Muslims anymore, and when I tell someone that I am, it’s a shock to them that that is even the case. And this is someone who we should view in the same manner that we do Benjamin Netanyahu, this is a war criminal.”

No Gujarati Muslims Left?

At the above event, Mamdani stunned many when he claimed that “we don’t even believe there are Gujarati Muslims anymore,” attempting to present himself as a survivor of ‘erasure’ due to communal violence. His claim was not only inflammatory—it was false. According to the official 2011 Census of India, Gujarat had nearly 58.5 lakh Muslims, comprising 9.67% of the population. Today, that number is likely higher. His suggestion that Gujarati Muslims have been wiped out is both factually incorrect and dangerously provocative.

This prompted widespread outrage from Indian-American community leaders and politicians alike.

A Pattern Of Extremism

The 2025 controversies are not isolated incidents. In 2020, Mamdani led an aggressive protest in Times Square against the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. According to videos circulated at the time, slurs like “Hindus are bastards” were shouted during the protest—statements Mamdani has neither disavowed nor clarified. That protest was backed by Khalistani separatists, raising additional concerns about the ideological company Mamdani keeps.

His critics note that Mamdani often conflates Hindus with India’s ruling BJP, turning political dissent into religious animosity. When fellow politicians like Jennifer Rajkumar and Kevin Thomas refused to denounce Modi during his 2023 New York visit, Mamdani labeled them as complicit—again stoking intra-community rifts.

Double Standards And Anti-Semitism

Mamdani’s controversial stance is not limited to India and Hindus. He has been accused of anti-Semitism after refusing to co-sign a resolution condemning the Holocaust and abstaining from a proclamation marking Israel’s 77th Independence Day. Critics argue that his frequent comparisons of Israel to apartheid regimes, and his condemnation of the country’s response to the October 7 Hamas terror attacks, reveal a pattern of selective outrage and ideological extremism.

Assemblyman Sam Berger summed up the dismay: “He condemned Israel the day after October 7th, regularly gives interviews on unapologetic antisemitic platforms and just proudly accepted an endorsement from a disgraced former fire-alarm pulling Congressman who denied October 7th rapes before walking that back,”

(With inputs from Times Of India)

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“Pledged His Party For A Rajya Sabha Seat”: BJP Leader H Raja Brutally Roasts DMK Stooge Kamal Haasan

By
The Commune
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h raja dmk stooge kamal haasan

Tamil Nadu BJP senior leader and National Executive Committee Member H Raja has strongly criticized actor-turned-part-time-politician Kamal Haasan following his recent election to the Rajya Sabha with the support of the DMK. Speaking to reporters in Karaikudi, Raja accused Kamal of abandoning his earlier anti-corruption stance and aligning with the very party he once opposed.

When reporters questioned Kamal Haasan’s appointment to the Rajya Sabha as an MP under the DMK, H. Raja responded saying, “When there is sun itself, what’s the need for a torchlight? He threw it away. Didn’t we all see? Didn’t that so-called man of honour break the TV? Where is he now? What did he say? He said, ‘I will never compromise with corruption.’  All that was nonsense, just to deceive the public, running a party only to sell it off for a single Rajya Sabha seat and pledging his torch(symbol). You shouldn’t even be asking questions about such a person, and I don’t need to answer them.”

Reporters said, “When asked, he has said he came now because there was a necessity for him.”

Taking a dig at Kamal’s justification that his Rajya Sabha nomination was out of necessity, Raja responded, “What necessity? After throwing away the torchlight and going to the Rajya Sabha with DMK’s support. People like them, those who went that way, I don’t want to name anyone, but I can say this, they all sat in the Rajya Sabha with their mouths stitched shut. So, his going there brought no benefit whatsoever to Tamil Nadu. It stands proven now that he is not a man of integrity.”

Raja also spoke on other issues, including recent policy changes, stating that the Reserve Bank of India has withdrawn restrictions on gold loans. He mocked Chief Minister Stalin’s recent visit to Madurai, calling it an “empty road show” due to public dissatisfaction.

He further claimed that under UPA rule from 2004 to 2014 — in which the DMK was a partner — only 32% of tax revenue was allocated to states. In contrast, he said, the Modi-led government has increased it to 42%. Raja also criticized voices questioning ISRO’s missile tests in Tamil Nadu, calling such opinions anti-national.

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“Too Much Of A Headache, Is It Worth The Effort?” Ashoka University Co-Founders Mull Exit Amid Mahmudabad Arrest Controversy

By
The Commune
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ashoka university mahmudabad

In a surprising development, Ashoka University co-founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani has expressed increasing frustration with the institution in the wake of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad’s recent arrest over a social media post. In a now-leaked internal email, Bikhchandani referred to the university as “too much of a headache” and revealed that he, along with co-founders Pramath Raj Sinha and Ashish Dhawan, had seriously discussed the possibility of stepping down from their roles.

Referring to the situation as increasingly burdensome, Bikhchandani wrote, “Pramath, Ashish, and I have seriously discussed the option of walking away. Ashoka is too much of a headache. Is it worth the effort?”

The message was reportedly in response to concerns raised by an alumnus who criticized the university’s silence on Mahmudabad’s arrest and the absence of visible support for the professor.

Professor Mahmudabad Controversy

Professor Mahmudabad, head of the Political Science department at Ashoka University, was arrested on 18 May following a controversial social media post related to Operation Sindoor. While praising the Indian military’s operations, his post also questioned problematic symbolism and the marginalisation of minorities. Shared on 8 May, the post gained traction online and resulted in two FIRs being filed.

In a post on social media, Mahmudabad wrote, “I am very happy to see so many right-wing commentators applauding Colonel Sophi(y)a Qureishi, but perhaps they could also equally loudly demand that the victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing and others who are victims of the BJP’s hate mongering be protected as Indian citizens. The optics of two women soldiers presenting their findings is important, but optics must translate to reality on the ground, otherwise it’s just hypocrisy.”

In his email, Bikhchandani firmly denied that the university had any obligation to support Mahmudabad for views shared in a personal capacity. “You are an adult and must bear responsibility for your words and the consequences,” he wrote, emphasizing that the post was made without consulting the university and that expecting institutional backing afterward was unreasonable.

He further argued that such online commentary does not fall under the purview of academic freedom. “Posting political opinions on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or X is not academic work,” Bikhchandani stated. “If authorities respond to such content, it may be a matter of free speech not academic freedom for which legal recourse exists under constitutional law.”

Professor Mahmudabad’s post also critiqued the use of women officers in official briefings, which sparked significant backlash and led to legal action under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to promoting communal disharmony.

The Supreme Court granted Mahmudabad interim bail on 21 May but declined to halt the investigation. The court extended his bail and instructed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit a progress report. It also upheld his right to freedom of expression but advised him against making public statements related to the case.

Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognisance of the incident based on media coverage, noting that the circumstances potentially indicate a violation of the professor’s civil liberties.

(With inputs from Money Control)

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Teen Arrested In Ranipet For Sexual Assault And Murder Of 80-Year-Old

By
The Commune
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sexual assault murder ranipet

On 4 June 2025, a 19-year-old youth was taken into custody by the Arcot Town Police for sexually assaulting and murdering an 80-year-old woman in a village under the Arcot taluk of Ranipet district.

The accused, identified as S Nandakumar from Kathiyavadi village, reportedly entered the elderly woman’s residence in an intoxicated state around 5:30 PM on 3 June 2025. According to preliminary police investigations, the woman, who owned and operated a brick kiln in her mango grove, lived in a small house on the premises with her son, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren.

Police sources revealed that Nandakumar forcefully entered the house and is believed to have assaulted the woman. When she tried to escape, she fell and sustained injuries. He then dragged her out of the house. The sequence of events was captured by surveillance cameras installed at the property.

Later that evening, after returning with her children, the victim’s granddaughter checked the CCTV footage on her phone and was shocked to witness the incident. She immediately rushed to the house and found her grandmother severely injured. Police were alerted, and the woman was taken to the Government Medical College Hospital in Vellore, where she was declared brought dead.

A case was registered under Sections 64(1) (rape) and 103(1) (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigators discovered that Nandakumar had been working as an electrician in the area for the past three years. During his visits, he became familiar with the woman’s residence and had been observed loitering nearby frequently.

To trace the accused, authorities reviewed CCTV footage from the area, including busy roads and key junctions. After cross-checking the suspect’s image with local residents, police were able to identify his native village. He was eventually located and apprehended near a hillock on 4th June evening. Nandakumar was formally arrested, and further investigation is ongoing.

(With inputs from The Hindu)

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#ThugLifeDisaster: DMK Stooge Kamal Haasan’s Latest Flop Show Is Worse Than Indian 2

By
The Commune
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About a year ago, part-time politician, DMK stooge and actor Kamal Haasan saw the release of his film Indian 2. That film, despite its big budget and pre-release hype, became the subject of relentless memes and ridicule across the country. It failed miserably at the box office and ended up inspiring a meme fest across the country.

One would imagine the actor learned his lesson. Apparently not.

On 5 June 2025, Kamal Haasan returned with Thug Life, directed by the once-celebrated Mani Ratnam. Released worldwide, the film promised grandeur, emotion, and a return to form. Instead, it has triggered déjà vu of the worst kind: yet another cinematic trainwreck.

Audience Reaction: From Hype To Horror

As Thug Life premiered today, the initial wave of reviews was nothing short of sharp, merciless, and downright humiliating.

Critics and audiences alike flooded social media timelines with words such as disappointment, routine, aimless, emotionless, and unimpressive. While the film’s musical score and stylish visuals received a faint nod, they were widely regarded as superficial glitz over a hollow core. Fans and reviewers were left baffled by how a film that promised so much could feel so soulless and uninspired.

Kamal apparently mentioned that the film will make one forget Nayagan. It was repeated by netizens online and it perfectly captured the collective mood of the audience: “Thug Life will make you forget Nayagan — just like Indian 2 made you forget Indian.”

This cruel comparison points to the film’s catastrophic failure to live up to its legacy and the crushing disappointment of Kamal Haasan’s loyal fan base.

Stars Wasted, Talent Squandered

Thug Life assembled a formidable cast featuring industry favorites like Simbu (STR), Trisha, Ashok Selvan, and Abirami. However, all the star power couldn’t save the film from being a universally panned disaster. Trisha’s much-anticipated role was dismissed by many as poorly written and meaningless, a wasted opportunity that failed to add any depth or relevance to the narrative. Simbu, despite delivering a decent performance, found himself trapped in a shallow, underwritten character whose presence felt more obligatory than impactful — especially in the sluggish second half where his character’s arc fell flat.

Even the film’s music, scored by the so-called legend AR Rahman, did little to redeem the overall experience. Fans and critics expressed deep disappointment, pointing out that Rahman’s compositions, usually a highlight of any Mani Ratnam film, felt disconnected and out of sync with the story. Not a single track managed to resonate or elevate the film’s mood, marking what many consider his weakest collaboration with Mani Ratnam to date.

Mani Ratnam’s Fall From Grace

Once hailed as a visionary director responsible for timeless classics such as Nayagan, Roja, and the recent Ponniyin Selvan, Mani Ratnam now finds himself accused of creative exhaustion and complacency. Critics argue that Thug Life recycles tired tropes from his earlier gangster dramas, resulting in a painfully predictable and uninspired saga. The film’s lazy writing and lifeless emotional beats betrayed the expectations set by Ratnam’s illustrious career.

A particularly scathing comment from a Tamil cinema enthusiast reflected the growing frustration: “Old man Mani Ratnam seriously needs a belt treatment. Enough with the lazy writing, lifeless emotions, and the same dragging, repetitive crap from his old films. Time to retire, sir. You’ve lost it.”

This brutal sentiment highlights how the revered director has fallen out of touch with contemporary audiences, unable to reinvent himself or keep pace with evolving cinematic storytelling.

What Went Wrong? Everything.

  • Story: The narrative was weak, outdated, and poorly paced, failing to engage or surprise the audience.
  • Direction: Mani Ratnam’s direction lacked energy, moving at a slow, repetitive pace with uninspired execution.
  • Music: A.R. Rahman’s soundtrack, usually a major strength, was widely regarded as ineffective and disconnected from the film’s emotional core.
  • Acting: Despite a strong cast, the actors were poorly utilized, with characters lacking depth or meaningful development.
  • Cinematography: The film’s visuals were the only redeeming feature, showcasing high production values and striking locations — but beautiful images alone could not salvage a hollow story.

One online reviewer summed it up harshly: “#ThugLife ~ Turd Life 💩 Predictable gangster saga by Mani Ratnam with an outdated story by Kamal Haasan and an ineffective score by ARR. The only saving grace is the good de-aging effect in the opening sequences. The rest is a big blunder.”

Netizen Reactions

Let’s take a look at some netizen reactions:

Thug Life: A Bigger Disaster Than Indian 2

Thug Life isn’t just a commercial failure — it’s a cautionary tale illustrating the dangers of clinging to past glory. It shows what happens when aging stars and directors refuse to innovate, ignore audience expectations, and lean too heavily on political affiliations and nostalgia. The film’s downfall confirms that even the most hyped projects can be sunk by outdated storytelling and lack of creative spark.

Kamal probably knew the film would sink much faster than the Titanic and hence could have come up with ideas to create needless controversies that he executed – even that didn’t help him or the film.

If Indian 2 was a stumble, Thug Life is a catastrophic faceplant. Kamal Haasan’s career trajectory — much like his political fortunes — seems to be rapidly declining, with few signs of recovery on the horizon.

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15 Instances Of Maoist/Naxal Supporters Crying Foul About Modi Govt’s Operation Kagar Eliminating Naxals

By
The Commune
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operation kagar naxalite maoist supporter

The Communist Party of India (CPI), through its General Secretary D. Raja, has issued a strong condemnation of Operation Kagar, the Indian government’s ongoing counter-insurgency campaign targeting Maoist strongholds in central and eastern India. The criticism follows a particularly deadly phase of the operation in Chhattisgarh, where several senior Maoist leaders and a number of local tribals were reportedly killed between May 18 and 21, 2025.

D. Raja voiced his concern on 21 May 2025, calling the killings a “brutal misuse of state power” and warning that such actions risk alienating the very communities the state claims to protect. He accused the government of “militarising tribal regions” and undermining constitutional rights in the name of national security.

What Is Operation Kagar?

Launched in January 2024, Operation Kagar is a multi-phase counter-insurgency campaign initiated by the Indian government. Its stated objective is to eliminate Maoist (Naxalite) influence from the so-called “Red Corridor”—a region spanning parts of Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, and other states.

The operation aims to complete Maoist eradication by March 2026, combining military offensives with development schemes in affected regions. However, critics argue that the operation has increasingly blurred the lines between targeting armed insurgents and violating civil liberties of indigenous populations.

The CPI’s latest statements suggest a growing political backlash against what they view as state violence disguised as national security.

This report compiles xx instances made between May 21 and May 23, all sharply critical of the operation. The CPI’s official handle on X (formerly Twitter) was particularly active, denouncing what it described as “extrajudicial killings” and a “war on the poor.” The reactions came not just from India, but also from Pakistan, China, and Turkey!

#1 CPI Condemns ‘Extrajudicial Killings’ In Chhattisgarh

On 21 May 2025, CPI General Secretary D. Raja strongly condemned the killing of a senior Maoist leader and several Adivasis in Chhattisgarh, calling it a ‘cold-blooded and extrajudicial’ act. He alleged that this was, yet another instance of state violence carried out under the pretext of counterinsurgency operations. The CPI criticized the government’s repeated use of force against tribal populations and demanded accountability for the incident. Raja emphasized that such actions violate democratic norms and human rights, urging for an immediate and independent investigation into the killings to ensure justice for the victims.

#2 CPI(ML) Red Star Condemns Killing Of Maoist Leader Keshav Rao

On 21 May 2025, the CPI(ML) Red Star issued a strong condemnation of the killing of CPI(Maoist) General Secretary Comrade Kambala Keshav Rao and other Maoist activists in Narayanpur-Bijapur. Calling it a calculated and brutal act by the “fascist double engine” regime, the party accused the state of carrying out mass ‘extrajudicial killings’ under Operation Kagar, despite the Maoists’ offer for peace talks. The statement denounced the government’s alleged prioritization of corporate interests over Adivasi rights, linking the killings to forest exploitation and accusing the regime of pursuing a violent, anti-people agenda.

#3 CPI(M) Slams Government Over Killing Of 27 Maoists In Chhattisgarh

On May 22, 2025, the CPI(M) Polit Bureau condemned the killing of 27 Maoists, including General Secretary Nambala Kesavarao, in Chhattisgarh. The party criticized the BJP-led Centre and State governments for rejecting repeated Maoist appeals for dialogue, calling the policy of annihilation inhuman and undemocratic. Statements by the Union Home Minister and Chhattisgarh CM, rejecting peace talks, were termed fascistic. CPI(M) reiterated its opposition to Maoist ideology but urged the government to halt paramilitary operations and immediately respond to calls for dialogue, aligning with appeals from various political groups and concerned citizens for a peaceful resolution.

#4 CPI(ML) Condemns ‘Extra-Judicial Killings’ Under Operation Kagar

On 21 May 2025, the CPI(ML) Liberation strongly condemned the ‘extra-judicial killing’ of CPI(Maoist) General Secretary Keshav Rao and several Maoist activists and Adivasis in Narayanpur-Bijapur. The party criticized the Union Home Minister’s celebratory remarks, claiming they expose Operation Kagar as a state-led extermination campaign targeting citizens under the guise of anti-Maoist action. CPI(ML) asserted that the operation is being used to suppress Adivasi resistance against corporate exploitation and militarization. The Central Committee demanded a judicial probe into the killings and an immediate halt to military operations, especially after the Maoists had declared a unilateral ceasefire.

#5 Communist Workers Circle Condemns Killing Of CPI (Maoist) Leader

On 23 May 2025, the Communist Workers Circle (CWC) issued a statement mourning the death of Comrade Basavaraj, born Nambala Keshav Rao, the General Secretary of the CPI (Maoist). The organisation said it grieves the loss and celebrates the life of Basavaraj, who was killed along with 26 others in what it described as “a cowardly act of terrorism by the Indian state.” The CWC praised Basavaraj’s lifelong commitment to revolutionary politics and anti-imperialist struggle and reaffirmed its solidarity with the Maoist cause, calling his death part of a broader campaign to suppress people’s resistance.

#6 Hansraj Meena Calls For ‘Justice And Dialogue’ In Chhattisgarh Conflict

On 23 May 2025, environmental activist Hansraj Meena commented on the ongoing anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh, stating that the root causes of the conflict must be addressed. He said people often turn to Naxalism when the government seizes tribal lands, destroys forests, and ignores the voices of indigenous communities. According to Meena, for some, taking up arms becomes a last resort. He asserted that if the government truly wants a long-term solution, it must first create conditions for justice and meaningful dialogue with affected communities instead of relying solely on military action.

#7 Journalist Hüseyin Doğru Criticizes Indian Offensive In Chhattisgarh

On 22 May 2025, journalist and former Redstreamnet founder Hüseyin Doğru described the recent anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh as a “brutal military campaign” by Indian forces. He stated that 27 Maoists were killed, including Basava Raju, General Secretary of the CPI (Maoist) and head of its armed wing. Doğru emphasized Raju’s long involvement in guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and intelligence operations, highlighting his key roles in the Politburo, Central Committee, and the editorial board of Awam-e-Jung. He called the incident a major escalation in what he described as India’s ongoing war on Maoist communists.

#8 Pakistani Advocate Calls Maoist Terrorist Death “A Symbol Of Resistance”

On 22 May 2025, Pakistani advocate Afshan Awan commented on the killing of Nambala Keshava Rao, also known as Basavaraju, by Indian forces. She said that Rao, once an engineer, had given up a comfortable life to stand with Adivasis and Dalits against caste violence, land dispossession, and state oppression. According to Awan, his death was not due to any crime, but for resisting a system rooted in inequality. She claimed that in India, defending the oppressed is labelled terrorism, while systemic violence continues unchecked. Awan concluded that the revolution Rao stood for still lives on.

#9 Anonymous Pakistani Handle Calls Basavaraju’s Death a Blow to Marginalized Voices

On 22 May 2025, a Pakistani social media user with the name “Tweeety” reacted to the death of CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, also known as Basavaraju, who was killed by Indian security forces in Chhattisgarh. Tweeety said that Basavaraju had become a prominent voice for marginalized communities and that while the government celebrated the operation as a major success, many viewed it as the loss of a leader who stood for justice, dignity, and resistance to entrenched inequality. According to the post, Basavaraju’s legacy would continue to inspire ongoing struggles for tribal rights and social justice.

#10 AISA Demands Probe Into ‘Extra-Judicial Killings’ In Bastar

On 21 May 2025, the AISA unit at CUJ Ranchi strongly condemned what it described as the “cold-blooded, extra-judicial killing” of CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Keshav Rao and other Maoist activists and Adivasis in the Narayanpur-Bijapur region. In a statement, AISA claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s celebratory post confirmed that Operation Kagar was being used as a state-led extermination campaign. The group accused the government of using anti-Maoist operations to suppress Adivasi resistance to corporate exploitation. AISA called on all justice-loving citizens to demand a judicial probe and an immediate halt to the ongoing military campaign.

#11 Social Media Handle Mourns Maoist Leader, Praises Role In Attacks Against BJP Leaders

On 21 May 2025, a social media account operating under the name “Muppala Rao”—believed to be mimicking Muppala Lakshmana Rao alias Ganapathy, a prominent Maoist leader—posted a tribute mourning the death of Maoist terrorist Nambala Kesava Rao. In the post, the handle described Rao as a Central Committee and Politburo member and claimed he would “live on in the hearts of Adivasis, Dalits, and other backward castes.”

The same account has previously expressed support for Naxalites, including celebrating the 2023 killing of BJP leader Sagar Sahu, calling it an act of resistance “against fascism.”

#12 Namasthe Telangana News Bureau Chief Pays Tribute To Terrorist Nambala Keshava Rao

On 21 May 2025, Voruganti Satish, Chief of News Bureau at Namasthe Telangana, issued a statement saluting Comrade Nambala Keshava Rao. He expressed deep respect for Rao’s unwavering commitment to the people’s struggle, describing him as a legendary revolutionary leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Satish emphasized that the memory and spirit of the comrade’s revolutionary efforts remain alive, honoring Rao’s enduring impact on social justice movements. The statement highlighted the lasting influence of Rao’s dedication to the cause of marginalized communities.

#13 Dr. Cheruku Sudhakar Calls for Peaceful Dialogue in Maoist Conflict

On May 21, 2025, Dr. Cheruku Sudhakar, a Telangana-based activist, doctor, politician, described Nambala Keshava Rao as a ‘relentless fighter’ for the oppressed who died while receiving medical care in Odisha. He criticized the Indian government’s celebration of the killing of a political leader, questioning if any democratic system condones such acts. Sudhakar highlighted Rao’s educated background and efforts to pursue peace talks despite being outlawed. He urged for immediate dialogue with the Maoist party to achieve democratic transformation and peaceful development in Dandakaranya and forest regions. He warned that one-sided violence against Maoists and Adivasis amounts to ‘genocide’, likening it to the situation in Gaza.

#14 Chinese Chunqiao Publications Mourns Death Of CPI (Maoist) Leader Basavaraju

On 21 May 2025, Chunqiao Publications posted on their X handle that Nambala Keshava Rao, also known as Comrade Basavaraju, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), was killed in a combing operation by District Reserve Guard units in the Abujhmad region. They described him as a revolutionary who joined the armed struggle in the 1970s, studied engineering at REC Warangal, and rose to become the party’s second General Secretary in 2018 after Comrade Ganapathy’s resignation. Police claimed that 26 Maoists, including Basavaraju, were killed and released photos of his body from the encounter. The post read, “General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), Nambala Keshava Rao, more commonly known as Comrade Basavraj, has been Martyred in Abujhmad Region — 2025.5.21. Rest in power Comrade Basavraj! Comrade Basavaraju (also known as Gaganna), the second General Secretary of the CPI (Maoist), was born as Nambala Keshava Rao on July 10, 1955, in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. He held a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the Regional Engineering College (REC) in Warangal. Comrade Basavaraju actively joined the revolutionary movement in the 1970s and was arrested in 1980 due to a conflict with the right-wing student organization Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). After his release, he joined the People’s War Group of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) and formally participated in the armed revolutionary struggle. In 2004, after the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), Comrade Basavaraju served as the Secretary of the party’s Central Military Commission. In 2018, following the resignation of the party’s first General Secretary Comrade Ganapathy (now 73 years old) due to health reasons, Comrade Basavaraju became the second General Secretary of the CPI (Maoist). 2025.5.21: The District Reserve Guard (DRG) units from four districts—Narayanpur, Dantewada, Bijapur, and Kondagaon—jointly launched a combing operation in the Abujhmad region. During this operation, police claimed that 26 Maoist members were killed, including the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), Basavaraju. The police also released photos of Basavaraju’s body from the battle scene.”

#15 Filipino Handle Expresses Solidarity With Maoists

On 21 May 2025, a social media handle from the Philippines named “jinkydoo” expressed solidarity with the Maoists following the killing of Comrade Keshav Rao and other activists. They called for justice for Keshav Rao and the Adivasis in Narayanpur-Bijapur. Along with their message of support, “jinkydoo” shared the statement issued by the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist), condemning the operation.

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“Aala Vidunga Appa”: Part-Time Politician Vijay Competes With MK Stalin For ‘Appa’ Title

By
The Commune
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In a bid to elevate actor-turned-politician Vijay to the stature of Chief Minister MK Stalin, the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) seems to be closely mirroring the political playbook of the DMK. In particular, the party appears eager to associate Vijay with the title “Appa” a term that the DMK has been trying to promote as a symbolic nickname for Stalin, akin to how the late Jayalalithaa was affectionately called “Amma” by the public.

The DMK government even launched an official mobile application named “APPA,” an overt branding attempt to frame Stalin as a paternal figure to the people, echoing the maternal image Jayalalithaa crafted through welfare schemes such as Amma Canteens and Amma Pharmacies.

Recently, at an event in Mahabalipuram on 4 June 2025, where Vijay honored top-performing Class 10 and 12 students, a young child took the stage and declared, “In 2026, Vijay Appa will be the Chief Minister. In 2031, Vijay Appa will still be the Chief Minister.” This scripted performance has drawn ridicule, with critics accusing TVK of recycling DMK’s failed branding tactics rather than offering a clear political vision. Rather than forging its own path, the party appears content to trail the DMK’s shadow.

Manufactured Affection vs. Genuine Sentiment

Where once political nicknames like “Amma” emerged organically from public admiration and trust, today’s attempts to mold such titles seem more contrived than sincere. Stalin has repeatedly claimed that children refer to him as “Appa,” but given the alarming rise in crimes against women and children in Tamil Nadu, the moniker rings hollow. One must ask: is “Appa” a heartfelt title or a veiled plea for protection?

Tamil Nadu’s political landscape is no stranger to branding. Jayalalithaa successfully transformed herself into “Amma” by embedding the name into a wide range of welfare schemes, fostering a deep-rooted emotional bond with the electorate. In contrast, Stalin’s push for “Appa” feels like a top-down marketing campaign, reinforced by repetitive slogans and state events rather than genuine public sentiment.

From school breakfast programs to urban development announcements, Stalin takes every opportunity to reinforce the “Appa” narrative—even at events entirely unrelated to education. The message is clear: if you say it enough, maybe people will start to believe it.

While the DMK’s attempt fell flat, TVK’s effort to position its leader appears utterly absurd. Titles are earned naturally through public recognition, not self-assigned out of entitlement. TVK should understand that respect must be deserved, not demanded.

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