22K & 24K gold price today, Oct 10, 2025 across Indian cities
ED raids 12 places in West Bengal, Telangana, Gujarat in Rs 2,700 crore bank fraud case
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at 12 locations across West Bengal, Telangana, and Gujarat in a Rs 2,700 crore bank fraud case. Raids are underway at 10 places in Kolkata, one in Hyderabad, and one in Ahmedabad. The operation aims to trace alleged diversion of bank funds and identify beneficiaries linked to a jewellery firm.
Jobs scam: Bengal minister Sujit Bose's property among six Kolkata locations raided by ED
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) searched six locations in Kolkata, including West Bengal minister Sujit Bose's residence, as part of an investigation into alleged recruitment irregularities in a civic organisation. Raids also targeted former officials of the South Dum Dum Municipality, aiming to gather corruption-related documents. This follows a previous raid and questioning of Minister Bose in January 2024.
Bengal Job scam allegations: ED conducts search operations at six locations in Kolkata
The ED raids include Minister Sujit Boses residence-cum-office in Salt Lake, and the houses of former officials of the Dum Dum Municipality
Bank fraud: ED raids jewellery firm's offices, accountant's residence in Kolkata
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted simultaneous raids across Kolkata on Friday as part of a probe into a Rs 1,200 crore bank fraud. The investigation targets a jewellery company suspected of acquiring fake loans through fictitious entities. Raids included the residences of company officials and a chartered accountant believed to be instrumental in the fraudulent scheme.
Karwa Chauth 2025 Moonrise Time: Karwa Chauth 2025 falls on Friday, October 10. Married women will observe a day-long fast from sunrise to moonrise. The fast concludes after sighting the moon. Key timings for the puja and moonrise in various cities are provided. This tradition celebrates marital devotion and well-being.
SIR in Bengal: ECI officials clear doubts raised by BLOs on Aadhaar
Kolkata: The members of the Central team of the Election Commission of India (ECI), who are on a two-day visit to West Bengal to review the preparedness of the special intensive revision (SIR) in the state, on Thursday, cleared the doubts raised by the booth-level officers (BLOs) regarding treatment of Aadhaar cards in the revision Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
EC officials threatening Bengal govt officers: Mamata
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday launched a blistering attack on the Election Commission, alleging that its officials were threatening officers of her government and acting under political influence even before the announcement of assembly poll dates. She also asserted that the BJP was playing with fire in the name of the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Explore Zees Mrigaya: The Hunt, the suspenseful thriller from Bengali cinema!
Prepare for the interesting Bengali thriller Mrigaya: The Hunt, which premiered in theatres on June 27, 2025. This movie is ideal for taking part in Durga Puja festivities. This action-packed movie, which was directed by Abhirup Ghosh, blends police drama with unvarnished human stories as it delves into Kolkatas dirty underbelly. With a UA score and a duration of two hours and 5 mins, it is best for fans of gripping, sensible memories. It is straightforward for anybody to follow [] The post Explore Zees Mrigaya: The Hunt, the suspenseful thriller from Bengali cinema! appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
HNGIL revival kicks off with Kolkata as Madhvani Group's INSCO takes charge
Uganda's Madhvani Group, through INSCO, has successfully acquired Hindustan National Glass & Industries Ltd (HNGIL) for Rs 2,250 crore. New chairman Shrai Madhvani visited Kolkata facilities, outlining a revival plan with Rs 1,000 crore capex for modernization and diversification. Employees express optimism about the group's global turnaround expertise.
SIR in West Bengal: EC sets 7-day deadline for voter list mapping
Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday directed officials in West Bengal to expedite the voter list mapping process as part of preparations for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), setting a deadline of seven days to complete the process, an official said. Nearly 40 per cent of the task remains unfinished, with progress Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Beyond Silicon Valley: Global corporations expand GCC footprint in India
Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Pune are the top GCC hubs in the country, while cities like Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, and Thiruvananthapuram are emerging destinations.
All India Trinamool Congress slams BJP over vandalism of party office in Tripura
GUWAHATI: The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) on Wednesday slammed the BJP for its alleged involvement in the vandalism of its Tripura head office in the state capital Agartala on Tuesday evening. The AITC said under the BJPs rule, Tripura had been transformed into a theatre of terror, a place where jungle raj is the new normal and gratuitous political violence has become a tool of governance rather than an aberration. The AITC rushed a six-member delegation to BJP-ruled Tripura to take stock of the situation. The delegation met Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag to condemn the ongoing political violence and targeted intimidation in the state. The AITC alleged that Tripura Police remained silent spectators, both during the attack on the party office and when its delegation was restricted from visiting the same office on Wednesday. Our delegation condemned this misuse of state machinery to suppress democratic voices and urged the DGP to take immediate action, the AITC said. It further stated that when those in power themselves lead mobs and orchestrate violence, it is not just an attack on a political opponent, it is a direct assault on democracy. The mastermind of the Agartala vandalism is none other than Big-Flop Deb. After being unceremoniously removed from the Chief Ministers chair in 2022 and dismissed within his own party as incompetent, he has now been parachuted into Bengal as BJPs election in-charge for 2026, the AITC said, referring to Biplab Kumar Deb. Desperate to prove his worth, the AITC alleged, Deb is engineering provocation and orchestrating violence to pad up his scorecard. In Kolkata, AITC supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she would go to Tripura, if required. The BJP had on Tuesday taken out a rally to condemn the assault on the partys West Bengal MP Khagen Murmu, allegedly carried out by AITC workers in North Bengal recently. It was during the rally that some people perpetrated the violence.
Mamata Banerjee to again visit landslide-hit Darjeeling next week
The West Bengal CM returned to Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon after visiting the affected regions of North Bengal. She had met the families displaced by the calamity, and launched emergency support measures
22K & 24K gold price today, Oct 9, 2025 across Indian cities
22, 24-carat Gold prices rise across Indian cities on October 8
SpiceJet launches daily flights to Port Blair & Udaipur to boost winter travel across India
SpiceJet is expanding its winter schedule with daily flights to Port Blair and Udaipur. Flights to Port Blair from Kolkata and Delhi are now available. Non-stop services to Udaipur from Delhi and Mumbai begin on November 6, 2025. This move offers travelers more convenient and affordable options for popular winter getaways across India. Tickets are on sale now.
If you want to see a train running underwater, you just need to head to Kolkata. Here, the metro train runs beneath the Hooghly River.
The Union Government has refuted the allegations made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the floods in North Bengal caused by rivers originating from Bhutan, stating that India is actively engaged with the Bhutanese government to manage trans-border river issues. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Jal Shakti in response to Banerjees accusations, the Centre said it is working closely with the Government of Bhutan to address matters concerning river erosion, silt and debris deposition on riverbeds, and flash floods in West Bengal. The ministry stated that India and Bhutan have already formed a joint expert and technical committee to tackle these challenges. It also highlighted the role of existing bilateral mechanisms such as the IndiaBhutan Joint Group of Experts (JGE), Joint Technical Team (JTT), and Joint Experts Team (JET), of which officials from the West Bengal government are active members. These joint groups aim to ensure transparency and keep all stakeholders informed about ongoing efforts. Previously, Banerjee had written to the Prime Minister, urging the formation of an IndoBhutan River Commission to manage and regulate floods in Bengal. I had written to the Prime Minister advocating for this commission, warning that without it, North Bengal would continue to face consequences. Yet, I have not received any response, stated Banerjee. She also accused the Central Government of failing to provide funds for flood management. The Centre provides no funds for flood management and has even halted the Ganga Action Plan for cleaning the river. This is the level of discrimination being meted out to Bengal, said the Chief Minister. According to the Union Governments statement, the 11th JGE meeting was recently held in Paro, Bhutan, where discussions focused on eight additional rivers entering West Bengal from Bhutan including Hashimara Jhora, Jogikhola, Rokia, Dhawla Jhora, Gabur Basra, Gabur Jyoti, Pana, and Raidak (I & II). A joint study on erosion and sedimentation problems in these rivers was initiated. The Government of West Bengal has been asked to carry out the detailed study on the aforesaid to be presented during the next JTT meeting, scheduled later this year. In addition, strengthening of the hydrological observation network in Bhutan for improvement in flood forecasting on trans-border rivers on the Indian side is also being worked out, the statement further read. On the question of funding, the ministry clarified that there are no pending proposals related to flood management projects and noted that 1,290 crore has already been released to the Government of West Bengal under the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP). It further underlined that under the Ganga Action Plan and Namami Gange Project, a total of 62 projects and interventions worth 5,648.52 crore have been undertaken in West Bengal. The statement concluded by noting that the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has sanctioned 31 sewerage infrastructure projects and 30 ghats and crematoria projects in the state. Additionally, a major initiative for river rejuvenation has been approved, specifically for the rejuvenation of Tolly Nullah in Kolkata.
IISER Kolkata develops friendly bacteria to fight cancer
KOLKATA: A team from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata has developed a strain of friendly bacteria that can safely and effectively fight cancer from within the patients body, the premier institute said in a statement. Simultaneously, the team is also developing a detection system capable of monitoring the progress of the therapy in real time. Together, these innovations represent a significant advancement in the integrated therapeutic and diagnostic approach, or theranostics, to cancer treatment, according to IISER Kolkata. Their project, titled ReSET (Reprogramming the Suppressive Environment of Tumour Microenvironment), aims to address one of the key challenges in cancer therapy. Cancer often hides behind special immune cells called T regulatory cells (Tregs), which suppress the bodys natural defence system. This makes standard therapies like immunotherapy or chemotherapy less effective, the statement explained. Taking a bold and innovative approach, the IISER Kolkata team is engineering probiotics, beneficial microbes, to detect tumours and disrupt their suppressive activity, thereby reactivating the immune system to fight the disease. In simple terms, the team is transforming friendly microbes into living, targeted medicines that could one day operate from inside the body, making cancer treatment safer and more effective. To ensure the project is not just scientifically sound but also ethically and socially relevant, the students have engaged with oncologists, surgeons, cancer survivors, and NGOs. They have also organised school outreach programmes, cancer awareness campaigns, and collaborated with hair donors and patient support groups. These interactions have helped them align their innovation with real-world needs, ensuring that the therapy is designed with a human-centred approach. The team emphasises that their work is not merely a laboratory prototype, but also a proof of concept that demonstrates the potential of Indias youth to lead global scientific innovation. By targeting the Tregs pathway with engineered bacteria, we hope to bring forward a completely new class of cancer therapeutics, one that could revolutionise the way we treat cancer, the team said. The 11-member undergraduate team will represent IISER Kolkata and India at the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Grand Jamboree 2025, the worlds largest synthetic biology competition, to be held in Paris this October.
A massive traffic jam has brought the Delhi-Kolkata Highway (NH-19) to a near standstill, with hundreds of vehicles reportedly stuck for almost four days. Vehicles are lined up bumper-to-bumper, with no sign of relief since the congestion began.
DelhiKolkata highway nightmare: Vehicles reportedly stuck for four days after heavy rains
Torrential rains in Bihar's Rohtas district have caused a massive traffic standstill on the Delhi-Kolkata highway for four days. Flooded diversions and waterlogged roads have brought hundreds of vehicles to a halt, with commuters reporting no visible efforts from authorities to resolve the gridlock.
Video: Massive Jam On Delhi-Kolkata Highway, Vehicles Stuck For 4 Days
It is a very long line. Hundreds of vehicles queuing almost bumper-to-bumper have formed this never-ending, not-so-straight line as they have been stranded on the Delhi-Kolkata highway for the last four days
PVL 2025: Kolkata Thunderbolts Pick Solid Win Over Kochi Blue Spikers to Get Three Points
Pankaj Sharma named Player of the Match
AMUs Dr Hamid Ashraf Honoured with A.R. Seth Award
Aligarh: Dr Hamid Ashraf, faculty at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been awarded the prestigious A.R. Seth Award at the 54th Annual Conference of the Endocrine Society of India (ESI) in Kolkata. The award, one of Indias top recognitions in endocrinology, honours exceptional research and clinical contributions [] The post AMUs Dr Hamid Ashraf Honoured with A.R. Seth Award first appeared on .
Mamata Banerjee's 'Courtesy' Visit To Injured MP, BJP's 'No Arrest' Question
Countering BJP's criticism over the West Bengal government holding a Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata after north Bengal was devastated by landslides, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the event could not be cancelled because VIPs had come for it
Supreme Court defers RG Kar rape, murder case hearing till November
On January 20, a Kolkata trial court awarded convict Sanjay Roy life term imprisonment till death in the case. The heinous crime triggered nationwide outrage and prolonged protests in West Bengal
SC defers RG Kar rape, murder case hearing till November
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday deferred till November its hearing on the suo-motu case in the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. On January 20, a Kolkata trial court awarded convict Sanjay Roy life term imprisonment till death in the case. The Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SC Defers Hearing on Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder Case to November
Apex court continues monitoring safety of medical professionals; hearing adjourned due to courts prior engagement
Monitoring situation in landslide-affected north Bengal: Mamata
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she is personally monitoring the situation in landslide-hit districts in the northern part of the state to provide support to the affected people. In a social media post on X, Banerjee said that every arm of the administration has been mobilised with the singular purpose Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Elderly woman swept away by Damodar river rescued 45 km downstream in West Bengal
KOLKATA: In what locals have described as a miraculous escape, a 65-year-old woman who was swept away by the swollen Damodar river was rescued nearly 45 km downstream in West Bengal, police said. The incident occurred at Jakta village in the Rayna area of Purba Bardhaman district, where the river was in spate following heavy rainfall and water discharge from the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) dams, a senior police officer confirmed. Maturi Tudu had gone to bathe in the Damodar river alone. She was swept away by strong currents caused by the DVC's water release and continuous rains, the officer said. With the joint efforts of police and local villagers, Tudu was found and rescued 4550 km downstream. She was initially taken to Jamalpur Rural Hospital, where doctors noted that she had fallen ill due to prolonged exposure to water. She was later shifted to Burdwan Medical College and Hospital for further treatment. I went to bathe in the river on Sunday afternoon and was swept away. I somehow managed to hold onto something until villagers rescued me, Tudu recounted. Jamalpur Block Trinamool Congress president Mehemud Khan said the elderly woman was handed over to her family after police verified her identity. She survived purely by luck, he remarked.
New Heft: Navy Commissions Submarine Hunter INS Androth
The ceremony was presided over by vice admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, flag officer commanding-in-chief, Eastern Naval Command, in the presence of senior naval officers, representatives of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE, Kolkata) and civilians
Second state-of-the-art submarine hunter INS Androth joins Indian Navy
NEW DELHI: In a boost to its anti-submarine capabilities in the countrys coastal areas, the Indian Navy on Monday commissioned its second state-of-the-art Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), Androth, at the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. The Indian Navy said the commissioning of INS Androth adds a significant punch to its ASW capabilities, particularly in countering threats posed by adversaries in the littorals. The ships induction underscores the Navys continued emphasis on indigenisation, innovation, and capability enhancement, while reaffirming the vital contribution of GRSE in strengthening Indias maritime security architecture, the Navy said. At 77m in length and displacing about 1500 tonnes, INS Androth is specially designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal and shallow waters. The vessel, a state-of-the-art submarine hunter, is fitted with advanced weapons, sensors, and communication systems, enabling it to detect, track and neutralise sub-surface threats with precision. It can sustain prolonged operations in shallow waters and is equipped with technologically advanced machinery and control systems, the Navy said. Powered by three waterjet propulsion systems driven by marine diesel engines, INS Androth is extremely agile and manoeuvrable. Its capabilities extend to maritime surveillance, search and rescue, coastal defence missions, and low intensity maritime operations (LIMO) making it a versatile platform for littoral operations. As highlighted by The New Indian Express earlier , the Indian Navy's focus on anti-submarine warfare is conspicuous with its planned induction of 16 ASW-SWCs, six P-8I Poseidon and more UAVs and drones for this purpose. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous components, Androth is a testament to the Centre's vision of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) and a shining symbol of Indias growing maritime self-reliance. Constructed under the guidance of the Directorate of Ship Production and the oversight of the Warship Overseeing Team in Kolkata, Androth was handed over to the Indian Navy on September 13. The name Androth holds strategic and symbolic significance, derived from Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, underscoring Indias commitment to safeguarding its vast maritime territories. In its previous avatar, INS Androth (P69) served the nation with distinction for over 27 years before being decommissioned. The commissioning of the new Androth honours the legacy and spirit of her predecessor.
'Man-made disaster': Environmentalists blame unplanned urbanisation for Darjeeling landslides
DARJEELING: Environmentalists described the landslides in Darjeeling as a man-made ecological disaster, the inevitable outcome of decades of deforestation, unplanned urbanisation and poor governance that have pushed the fragile Himalayan slopes to the brink. They said the way forward lies in decentralised disaster planning, strict enforcement of construction norms, and climate-sensitive development to prevent the 'Queen of the Hills' from turning into a recurring disaster zone. The picturesque Darjeeling hills, long a refuge for weary travellers, now bear the scars of nature's fury. Twelve hours of relentless rain triggered a chain of deadly landslides that killed over 20 people and left scores homeless. The serene slopes have turned into sites of wreckage and despair -- a grim reminder that nature's retribution often follows human neglect. Environmentalists and experts who have long warned of such a catastrophe said this was not an unpredictable calamity, but the result of years of ecological exploitation and administrative apathy. The hills are paying for decades of neglect -- deforestation, unplanned roads, and reckless construction have made the terrain unstable. The rain is only the trigger; the real cause is how we have treated the mountains, said environmentalist Sujit Raha, a member of the North Bengal Science Centre. There is no proper disaster management plan in place to tackle such crises. The administration and authorities must take this problem seriously and not treat it as an annual tragedy, he said. Unchecked urban growth, poor drainage systems and hill-cutting for construction altered Darjeeling's ecosystem beyond recognition, he added. Disaster management expert Shailendra Mani Pradhan, a professor at Sarojini Naidu College for Women in Kolkata, said the landslides were a direct fallout of unregulated development in one of the country's most ecologically sensitive zones. Darjeeling lies in a high seismic area and is naturally prone to landslides. Yet, infrastructure development for tourism and housing continues without any adherence to building bylaws or drainage norms. The terrain is being pushed to its limits, he said. He pointed out that the rampant construction of multi-storey buildings on unstable slopes, particularly in Mirik, Kurseong, Kalimpong and Darjeeling towns, has increased the risk manifold. He called for decentralisation of disaster management, saying that while national and state-level frameworks exist, district-level disaster management committees remain largely non-functional. People must be sensitised to the ecological risks of violating construction norms. Around 7080 per cent of land in Darjeeling Municipality has been allotted for residential purposes, which is unsustainable, he said. Environmental scholar Vimal Khawas said the tragedy fits a recurring pattern of extreme climatic events that have haunted the region for decades. What we are seeing now is not new, but the scale of devastation this time reflects both natural vulnerability and growing human pressure on a fragile Himalayan ecosystem, he said. Habitations have spread into marginal areas where construction should never have been allowed. Weak enforcement of land use regulations, especially after the Gorkhaland agitation, has led to rampant building and road expansion without adherence to safety norms, said Khawas, a professor at JNU's Special Centre for the Study of Northeast India. He said the pattern of disasters seen in Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh reflects a larger Himalayan crisis driven by global climate change, compounded by local governance failures. He said Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), which administers the Darjeeling hills, lacks both expertise and infrastructure for disaster management. The plans are mostly drawn up in Kolkata without factoring in the local topography. What Darjeeling needs is a locally driven disaster preparedness plan linked with climate action and inter-departmental coordination, especially in managing water resources, he said. Environmental activist Subhas Dutta said the recurring landslides underline the need for a long-term environmental management plan for the entire north Bengal-Sikkim belt. The continuous soil erosion in the hills is causing stones and sand to flow down into the plains, raising the riverbeds and disturbing their natural course. As a result, many riverbeds now lie higher than the surrounding inhabited areas, increasing the risk of floods, he explained. Environmental expert Satyadeep Chhetri warned that the eastern Himalayas have moved from climate change to the climate crisis phase, urging relocation of habitations from high-risk zones and rehabilitation of affected families. The refilled South Lhonak glacial lake poses a renewed threat, and the shift of extreme rainfall to September-October signals a dangerous new climatic pattern for the region, he said. Chetri claimed that large-scale hill-cutting for highways and the ongoing construction of the railway line to Rangpo have destabilised the terrain. The recent disaster bears grim echoes of the October 1968 deluge, when nearly 1,000 people perished as continuous downpours washed away entire settlements across the hills and plains.
22, 24-carat Gold prices rise across Indian cities on October 7
22, 24-carat Gold prices rise across Indian cities on October 6
Bengal floods: Trajectory change of low-pressure system led to havoc
North Bengal faced devastating floods due to an unexpected recurve of a low-pressure system, meteorologists confirmed. Originating in the Bay of Bengal, the system shifted from its usual path towards north Bihar, bringing extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 200mm in areas like Darjeeling. This unusual trajectory, influenced by retreating monsoon winds, also impacted Kolkata.
Opposition slams Mamata Banerjee govt for Kolkata Durga Puja carnival
Kolkata unveiled a mega Durga Puja carnival with 116 pandals, drawing sharp criticism from Opposition parties. They slammed the Chief Minister for holding the event while 20 people died in North Bengal due to incessant rains. BJP and Congress leaders questioned the timing, urging the CM to prioritize the flood-affected region over the celebration.
PVL 2025: Bengaluru Torpedoes Script Comeback Win Over Kolkata Thunderbolts
Joel Benjamin was named the Player of the Match
Indian Navy to commission INS Androth on October 6
INS Androth is the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) to be commissioned. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous content, INS Androth represents a significant step in Indias pursuit of maritime self-reliance.
Indian Navy to commission second ASW, Androth, on Oct 6
Androth has been built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata and is a major step forward in Indias efforts to build its own defence equipment, an official statement said
Indie-pop artist Mali on full-circle moments, sound shifts and patience
Back in college, Maalavika Manoj better known by her stage name Mali stumbled upon a newspaper article about Parekh and Singh. The pastel-suited duo from Kolkata had just begun catching international attention, and to a young student in Mumbai, they seemed impossibly cool. I remember thinking, wow, lucky guy, she says of Nischay Parekh, then studying at the Berklee College of Music, USA. Their music felt like proof that indie pop from India could stand tall on a global stage. Fast forward to today, and Mali finds herself singing alongside Parekh on his latest release, Location . For the Mumbai-based artist with roots in Kerala, its a full-circle moment. The New Indian Express spoke to Mali about her creative process, her evolving sound, and the quiet discipline behind it all. You first came across Parekh and Singh in college. What does it feel like now to be singing with Nischay on Location ? Its such a full-circle moment. I read about Nischay back in college he was at Berklee then and I remember thinking, wow, lucky guy. Their music felt like proof that indie pop from India could stand tall globally. This song itself has had quite a journey. The first version was from 2020, when he submitted it for music school. Since then, weve tried different versions, even performed it live once or twice, almost shot a video Its been through all of that before finally reaching people now. Your own music often looks inward, drawn from emotion. Location feels more outward, about place. Did that open something new for you? Yeah, that makes sense. My songs usually come from the internal emotions, states of mind. This ones anchored in places, in the external world. And even though I didnt write it, when you live with a song long enough, you internalise it. You start to feel its world. So I think some of that perspective will naturally seep into what I write next. How has your sound changed since your early days with Rush ? You dont like the same things at 30 that you did at 20. Your interests, your subjects they change. Itd be hard to keep writing about teenage angst or heartbreaks when youve outgrown that space. For me, the evolutions been natural. Im enjoying showing that shift, and honestly, I like surprising people. What can listeners expect from your next album? Its in the works and should be out next year. Ive written about nine songs so far, and Im working closely with Keshav Dhar, whos producing. I first demoed them on my own, and now were refining them together. Next, I want to jam with the band see how the live energy shapes the tracks before returning to the studio. Its a slow, patient process, but thats what I love about it. You see the songs grow. The artists life can be solitary. How do you stay creative in that space? It can get siloed, yeah. Thats why I gave myself a concrete goal to finish the second album next year and worked backwards. I spent June and part of July just demoing alone, letting the songs simmer. If you take them to a producer too early, everything either sounds amazing or terrible, and you lose perspective. That alone time helps clarify what the song really needs. You also handle the admin side of being an artist. How do you balance that with creativity? It feels like doing one and a half jobs. In a single day, I might record for an ad, prep for a rehearsal, then attend a meeting about visuals. Plus, there are spreadsheets, website renewals, all of it. Switching between those roles is whats draining. If you were just doing music or just managing, it wouldnt feel so heavy. But as an independent artist, you wear both hats. Streaming and AI have reshaped the music landscape. How do you see it now? When I was on Spotifys On the Radar in 2020, around 50,000 songs were uploaded daily. Now its more like 120,000 and not all by humans. Weve already had a phase where music became so polished it felt plastic and thats what AI can replicate best. Whatll stand out in the future are things that feel human: real instruments, live rooms, even small living-room performances. That intimacy will matter most. When people leave your shows, what kind of connection do you hope they walk away with? I never want anyone to feel my show was overhyped. It is what it is. My favourite thing is when someone comes along with a friend, not knowing what to expect, and leaves saying, Whoa, Im going to listen to all your songs. Thats when I know the music spoke for itself. And on the tougher days when impostor syndrome hits what keeps you going? Every artist has impostor syndrome. On those days, I remind myself of three things Ill always be proud of, even when Im older. Sometimes Ill open Spotify for Artists and see five or ten people listening right then maybe at three in the morning, somewhere in the world. Thats such a hopeful feeling. It means the songs are travelling even when Im asleep. Your family roots trace back to Kerala. Has exploring that history changed your sense of self as an artist? Ive always been into genealogy and family history. Ive interviewed relatives, done a DNA test, and traced my ancestry. Im sketching a story about matriarchal women in Malabar a hundred years ago women who didnt know the word for it but were true feminists. Im not sure yet if itll become a book, a show, or a film. But digging into those stories grounds me, and Im sure itll find its way into my music. When youre not making music or tracing history, what keeps you grounded? Gardening, definitely. I know people joke because Mali means gardener in Hindi, but I just love plants. Ive got ladies finger and chilli plants, and I check on them every day. Seeing a bud one day and a bigger one the next its like writing a song. You add a verse, a hook, and slowly it becomes whole. Cooking too I dont do it often, but I enjoy it. Music, gardening, cooking theyre all patience games.
Magicpin eyes 5 lakh customers for food delivery vertical Inner Circle by year-end
NEW DELHI, Oct 5: Hyperlocal startup MagicPin on Sunday said it aims to onboard half a million students and corporate customers for its food delivery vertical Inner Circle by December. The newly launched service has achieved enrollment of over 1.5 lakh customers during the first month of its rollout in September. Currently, students from more than 3,000 colleges and users from over 500 corporates across Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Kolkata are enrolled in the Inner Circle platform. [] The post Magicpin eyes 5 lakh customers for food delivery vertical Inner Circle by year-end appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SIR in Bengal: ECI team to review complaints on BLO selection anomalies
Kolkata: A team of the Election Commission of India, led by Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti, will review next week the complaints regarding widespread irregularities in the selection of West Bengal government employees as booth-level officers (BLOs), despite them not meeting the selection criteria mandated by the ECI. The ECI team will also review the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kolkata celebrates the Red Road Immersion Carnival 2025 today with 113 Puja committees, VIP guests, and global diplomats. The city's heart turns festive as traffic curbs and parking bans are in place for the grand Durga Puja farewell.
Kolkata Tops 'Safe Cities' List Again. What RG Kar Victim's Parents Said
The father of the RG Kar Medical College rape victim has strongly contested the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report that labels Kolkata as the safest city in India, calling it a misrepresentation of ground realities.
Trinamool highlights NCRB report on low crime rate in Kolkata
The BJP leadership in the State, however, disputed the claims of Kolkata being the safest city and claimed that the data provided by the West Bengal government to NCRB is manipulated to present a rosypicture
Minor girl from Kolkata gang-raped in Patna, seven held
A minor girl from Kolkata was gang-raped in Patna after being lured with false promises of orchestra work. Police rescued three girls, including the minor, from captivity where they faced prolonged abuse for two days. Seven individuals, including a woman, were arrested and booked under BNS and POCSO Act, as police suspect an attempt to push them into flesh trade.
Woman Journalist Assaulted At Kolkata Railway Station, Chases Molesters Before They Flee
A 23-year-old woman journalist was assaulted at Sodepur railway station subway after resisting molestation.
After NCRB data shows Kolkata safest metro, TMC slams BJP for 'maligning' Bengal on law and order
Kolkata emerged as India's safest metropolitan city in 2023, according to new NCRB data. The city reported the lowest cognisable crime rate among 19 metros. This led to political debate between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP. TMC highlighted the achievement, while BJP questioned the state's law and order situation. Other major cities showed significantly higher crime figures.
RBI has kept possibility of future rate cuts open: Report
KOLKATA, Oct 4: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept the possibility of future rate cuts open, with its monetary policy committee (MPC) sharply revising its inflation forecast downwards, according to a recent report by Crisil Intelligence. The central bank had on October 1 kept its policy interest rate unchanged at 5.5 per cent for the second consecutive time, citing concerns over tariff uncertainties. The report said the MPC acknowledged that GDP growth would face downside risks in the [] The post RBI has kept possibility of future rate cuts open: Report appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
20leader20Nitish20Kumar20PTI.jpg)
Bihar cabinet approves honorarium hike for ANMs, doubles scholarship, clears key projects
PATNA: In a significant pre-election move, the Bihar government has approved a series of welfare and infrastructure development proposals, including an increase in the monthly honorarium for contractual Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) workers in urban areas from Rs 11,500 to Rs 15,000. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday, which saw approval of 129 proposals in total. Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Cabinet Department, Arvind Kumar Choudhary, said the revised honorarium would include a 5% annual increment, aimed at strengthening the states vaccination efforts. In another key decision, the cabinet doubled the annual scholarship for Class 9 and 10 students belonging to the general category (including minorities) under the Mukhyamantri Balak/Balika Scholarship scheme. The scholarship amount has been increased from Rs 1,800 to Rs 3,600 per student, resulting in an estimated additional annual expenditure of Rs 99.21 crore. The cabinet also gave its nod to the establishment of the Bihar Film and Theatre Institute, designed to address the lack of institutional training in film and theatre arts in the state. To boost tourism infrastructure, approval was granted for the construction of a five-star hotel on 3.24 acres of land at the Bankipore bus stand in Patna. The project will be undertaken by a Kolkata-based private firm, which has been issued a Letter of Award. Additionally, an Ahmedabad-based firm has been appointed chief consultant for the integrated development of the Vishnupad Temple area in Gaya, modelled on Varanasis Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. For womens safety and rehabilitation, the cabinet approved the conversion of short-stay homes under the Mukhyamantri Nari Shakti Yojana into Shakti Sadan centres. These centres will offer comprehensive shelter and support to women in distress, including survivors of human trafficking. In a move to simplify processes for pensioners, the government has selected CSC E-Governance Services India Ltd, a special purpose vehicle, to handle annual life certification. Pensioners can now complete the process free of cost at nearby CSC kiosks. Earlier on Friday, the state government also announced a 3% hike in dearness allowance for employees and pensioners, raising it from 55% to 58%, effective ahead of Diwali and Chhath festivals.
Jeet began his career as a cable TV operator in South Kolkata. His film Saathi brought him fame in 2002. He is now a prominent Bengali actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Jeet recently made his Hindi debut in the web series Khakee. He credits hard work for his journey. His definition of success includes family milestones. Read on to know more about his journey
TMC, BJP step up political activities after Durga Puja in West Bengal
While the BJP leadership was huddled in a meeting with newly appointed election observers in Kolkata, the Trinamool Congress has announced an outreach of Vijaya Sammilani in all blocks across the State.
'Focus is clear': Day after Puja festivities, TMC and BJP resume focus on 2026 Bengal polls
Barely a day after the Durga Puja festival concluded officially, West Bengal's political stage was reset on Friday with both the ruling Trinamool Congress and its principal challenger BJP wasting no time in shifting gears for the assembly elections due next year. While the BJP's central leadership descended on Kolkata for a marathon stock-taking and strategy session, the TMC sought to turn the Durga Puja fervour into a calibrated mass outreach drive, with party national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee personally leading the festive optics and announcing a statewide series of Vijaya Sammelanis (post-Puja gatherings) from Sunday. The Durga Puja officially concluded on Thursday with Vijaya Dashami, but the immersion of idols will continue for a few more days. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and BJP's Lok Sabha MP Biplab Deb, the party's observer and co-observer respectively, to oversee the 2026 state elections, landed in Kolkata Friday morning to hold their first round of consultations after being handed charge by the party high command last month. The two, joined by central observers Sunil Bansal and Amit Malviya, huddled with state leaders including president Shamik Bhattacharya, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, Union minister Sukanta Majumdar, former BJP Mahila Morcha chief Locket Chatterjee, and the party's organisational leadership at its Salt Lake headquarters. According to party insiders, the closed-door meeting dwelt on granular electoral arithmetic, from districts where the BJP lost narrowly in 2021 assembly elections to areas that showed promise in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The focus is clear. Every organisational reshuffle and assignment will be decided on the basis of electoral gains and losses. No decision will be taken without weighing its poll arithmetic, a senior BJP functionary said. The saffron party leadership also emphasised the importance of the Election Commission's upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party's focus would also remain on effective implementation of the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The exercise will begin shortly after the Puja vacations. If SIR is implemented properly here, names of a large number of illegitimate voters will be deleted, severely jeopardising Mamata Banerjee's chances for a fourth tenure, a BJP leader said. Though Yadav and Deb have been tasked with steering the poll machinery, leaders present said Bansal's pivotal role was underlined in the very first meeting. No major call can bypass Bansal, another party insider said. If the BJP camp projected urgency and structure, the Trinamool Congress sought to wrap its outreach in festival sentiment. During the Puja, TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee was spotted pandal-hopping in Dum Dum, Baguiati and other Kolkata neighbourhoods with his daughter, sampling street food, chatting with migrant workers, and even handing out gifts. The themes of the pandals he chose migrant labourers, Bengal's role in the freedom struggle were not accidental. They dovetail neatly into the TMC's political narrative, a party insider admitted. But the real organisational push begins this weekend, when the TMC rolls out block-level Vijaya Sammelanis across the state, coinciding with the government's grand Puja Carnival on Red Road here led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Around 50 ministers, MPs and MLAs have been tasked to crisscross the state to explain welfare schemes, network with grassroots voters and prepare cadres for the booth battle once the electoral roll revision begins. These are not just courtesy gatherings. The Sammelanis will set the campaign tone and sharpen cadre preparedness, a senior TMC leader said. The ruling party has previously used post-Puja gatherings as a springboard to shake off organisational lethargy - notably after the doctors' agitation at RG Kar Hospital last year. This time, the challenge is different. There is institutional fatigue, especially among the urban middle class. The danger is it may snowball into a larger anti-TMC wave, a party strategist said, pointing to the BJP's gains in several urban pockets in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. For Abhishek Banerjee, the shift from mass rallies to puja pandal strolls marks a visible recalibration. Durga Puja is about people, emotion and identity. Abhishek has chosen to be in the middle of it, not watching from the sidelines, a leader said, adding that the style change was aimed at plugging urban gaps and projecting accessibility. As the dust of the Puja settles, West Bengal's two main rivals appear determined to make every festive tradition count in their battle of optics and organisation. For the BJP, the urgency is to iron out factional rifts and sharpen strategy under central eyes; and for the TMC, it is to convert emotion into mobilisation while countering anti-incumbency after nearly 15 years in power. The festive lights may be dimming, but Bengal's political arena is only beginning to flare up.
India and China to resume direct flights after a five-year ban
India's IndiGo airline said that it would restart direct flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou from 26 October.
Households see easing in price pressures in major food and non-food products: RBI Survey
Indian households reported easing price pressures. The RBI survey indicated moderation in inflation expectations. Near-term inflation forecasts dropped. One-year ahead expectations also fell. Younger respondents showed a lower current inflation perception. Kolkata recorded the highest current inflation perception among cities. The survey offers insights into household views.
5 yrs on, India, China to restart direct flights later this month
India announced the resumption of direct air services with China from late October, a significant step towards normalizing bilateral relations. This follows PM Modi's recent meeting with President Xi Jinping and earlier tourist visa resumption, aiming to boost people-to-people contact and economic cooperation. IndiGo will launch Kolkata-Guangzhou flights on October 26.
Idol immersion marks culmination of Durga Puja in West Bengal
The immersion will continue over the next few days till Sunday, when State government has organised Durga Puja carnival when over 100 big ticket Pujas of Kolkata will participate in the mega event
After five years, India-China direct flights set to resume on October 26
IndiGo to launch services from Delhi and Kolkata to Guangzhou on October 26, with Air India expected to resume flights to Shanghai by year-end.
Deep depression to bring heavy rain in West Bengal
A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall across West Bengal, dampening Durga Puja celebrations on Bijoya Dashami. The system, expected to cross Odisha and Andhra Pradesh coasts, will cause intense downpours in several districts, including Kolkata, till October 6, with warnings issued for fishermen and potential waterlogging.
India a passionate football nation, honour to return: Lionel Messi
KOLKATA: Lionel Messi on Thursday confirmed his participation in the much-anticipated GOAT Tour of India 2025, calling it an honour to revisit the passionate football nation country where he last played 14 years ago. It is such an honour for me to make this trip. India is a very special country, and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago -- the fans were fantastic. India is a passionate football nation, and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game, Messi said in an official statement. The organisers had already unveiled the itinerary on August 15, and Messi's statement on Thursday marked the first time the football icon himself confirmed the visit. Messi will begin his whirlwind four-city tour in Kolkata on December 13 before travelling to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. The trip will end with a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 15. During the tour, the Argentine superstar will headline concerts, meet-and-greet sessions, food festivals, football masterclasses, and even a padel exhibition at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium. Lionel Messi's India tour to begin in Kolkata on December 12 In Kolkata, Messi's event will be held at Salt Lake Stadium which was also confirmed on Thursday. The stadium will host the legend for the second time this time in the GOAT Concert' and GOAT Cup' on December 13, where Messi is expected to share the field with Indian icons Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia and Leander Paes. Organisers are also planning a 25-foot-high mural to be unveiled during Durga Puja festivities, along with the inauguration of Messi's biggest-ever statue. Tickets for the events are expected to start from Rs 3,500. This will be Messi's first visit to India since 2011, when he captained Argentina in a FIFA friendly against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium. Promoter Satadru Dutta, who secured the authorisation earlier this year after meetings with Messi and his father, has promised a spectacle blending Indian and Argentine culture. A food and tea festival in Kolkata will highlight Messi's fondness for Argentine made tea, with a special Assam fusion. In Mumbai, Messi will also attend the Padel GOAT Cup and participate in a celebrity line-up that could include Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Bollywood stars. Security arrangements are expected to be unprecedented, with both Messi's team and local authorities involved. GOAT's own country: Ahead of Messi's arrival, Kerala readies itself for more than just a football match Messi in Kerala too in November? Even as Messi prepares for his December commitments, the Argentina national football team has included India in its schedule for a November FIFA international window. The Lionel Scaloni-coached world champions are set to play a friendly in Kerala between November 10-18, though the opponents and venue are yet to be finalised. If that visit goes ahead, it could mean Messi making two trips to India within two months. However, it remains to be seen whether the 38-year-old forward will feature in the Kerala match. I will be surprised if the legendary footballer comes twice in a month. However, it is most likely that the Argentina team minus Messi may come to play in Kerala, a source in the state said. Fans wait with fingers crossed as Messi, Argentina 'set' for Kerala in November The November friendly will be part of three games during the window, with the other two scheduled in Angola. The Argentine national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will have two FIFA friendly windows in the remainder of 2025, the AFA had said in its statement. The first, in October, from the 6th to the 14th, will be played in the United States (opponents and cities to be determined). The second, from the 10th to the 18th of November, will be played in Luanda, Angola, and Kerala, India (opponents to be determined), it added. Messi, an Olympic gold medallist and 2022 World Cup-winning captain, continues to attract unprecedented fanfare worldwide, and his December tour is expected to be one of the biggest football-related events ever staged in India. Kerala races against time to ready Greenfield Stadium as Messi, Argentina squad set to arrive in November
Vivek Gupta elected President of Indian Newspaper Society
Vivek Gupta of Sanmarg , a Hindi daily headquartered in Kolkata, has been elected President of the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) for 202526. The INS is the apex body of publishers of newspapers, magazines, and periodicals in India. Gupta was elected at the 86th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the INS, held on Thursday through video conferencing and other audio-visual means. He succeeds M.V. Shreyams Kumar of Mathrubhumi . The AGM also confirmed other key appointments. Karan Rajendra Darda of Lokmat was elected Deputy President, Tanmay Maheshwari of Amar Ujala was named Vice-President, and Anant Nath of Grihshobhika was appointed Honorary Treasurer of the Society for 202526. Mary Paul is the Secretary-General of the Society. Having previously served as vice president and honorary treasurer of INS, Gupta became the first president from eastern India to helm the organisation in 32 years, a statement from INS said. In his presidential address, Kumar lauded the indomitable resilience of the Indian newspaper industry amid global adversities, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The members of the Executive Committee of the INS for the year 2025-26 are, S Balasubramanian Adityan (Daily Thanthi), Girish Agarwal (Dainik Bhaskar, Bhopal), Samahit Bal (Pragativadi), Samudra Bhattacharya (Hindustan Times, Patna), Hormusji N. Cama (Bombay Samachar), Gaurav Chopra (Filmi Duniya), Vijay Kumar Chopra (Punjab Kesari, Jalandhar), Vijay Jawaharlal Darda (Lokmat, Nagpur), Jagjit Singh Dardi (Charhdikala Daily), Pallavi S. Dempo (The Navhind Times), Viveck Goenka (The Indian Express, Mumbai), Mahendra Mohan Gupta (Dainik Jagran), Yogesh P. Jadhav (Pudhari), Pratap G. Pawar (Sakal), Sowbhagyalakshmi Kanekal Tilak (Mayura), and Mohit Jain (Economic Times).
Durga Puja 2025 Dashami weather warning: IMD forecasts heavy rain across Kolkata and South Bengal
Kolkata is bracing for heavy to very heavy rainfall today, October 2, 2025, which is expected to severely disrupt Dashami celebrations and idol immersion processions along the Hooghly river. A cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal is causing the downpour, leading to widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions across South and North Bengal.
The income tax department is initiating a drive targeting 25,000-30,000 landowners in Kolkata and Bengaluru, and other cities, who failed to pay capital gains tax on joint development agreements. This 'Nudge' campaign will use emails to encourage voluntary compliance, offering a chance to clear dues with an additional 25% for past years to avoid penalties.
Thiruvananthapurams Navaratri celebration is famed for its regal rituals and the rich spread of art and culture. Alongside, in a quiet corner of the city, it takes on another beautiful avtar. Just off the lane adjacent to the AKG Centre lies the Hasan Marakkar Hall, where every year during Navaratri, the Durga Pujo comes alive recreating a slice of Bengal in the Kerala capital. And this years celebrations mark a milestone for the citys Bengali community: it is the 55th edition of Durga Pujo here. Renowned Hindustani vocalist Abradita Banerjee reminisces how the festival evolved. In the 1990s, the number of Bengalis were fewer than now, and the Pujo was usually in someones house, she recalls. It helped the community members share a beautiful camaraderie, which prompted us to prioritise the Thiruvananthapuram Pujo over the ones back in our native places. It also helped our kids bond. In due course, the Pujo was shifted to the Hasan Marikar Hall premises. Now, it is held on the terrace portion of the hall, with related events staged downstairs. Preparations for the festival begin weeks in advance, with families planning the decorations, dances and dramas. The paramount part, however, is the making of the Goddesss idol. Back in West Bengal, it is indeed a ritual in itself. The idol of the Goddess when it was being made. In Thiruvananthapuram, too, the making of the idol is no less significant. In the earlier days of our association, the members themselves would make the idols, procuring soil locally. Now we get an artisan from Kolkata every year so that the idol can be made the traditional way, says Amitabha Mondal, president of Trivandrum Bengali Association. Now, the number of members has swelled, and so has the Pujo. In Kolkata, there are several artisans who move from one place to another making idols for Bengali communities during this season. For example, artisan Tapan Jana, who made the idol here, also covers Kochi and Kozhikode. For the community, Durga Pujo is a time of camaraderie, of returning to roots, and of keeping culture alive. For youngsters like Aryaman Banerjee who grew up in the city, the festival is steeped in childhood nostalgia. To me, the Thiruvananthapuram Pujo is an emotional one. After studies, I went to Bhubaneswar for work. But I made it a point to attend the Pujo here, says the engineer, who now works in Odisha. I will be shifting base back to the city soon this is home. Even the Kolkata Pujo doesnt match up to the Thiruvananthapuram one for those who grew up here. What Aryaman remembers most is the Anando Mela (food festival) during the Pujo, when he and his friends would first scout the stalls to decide which to attack first. Tapan Jana, the artisan from Bengal with his family members and assistants after the idol was finished. The food would be prepared by the families. Some would have excellent chicken rolls, aloo puri, dahi vada, etc. Next would be the Mukto Mela, where everyone showcased their talents. We had a music band. There was also a Bengali recitation competition, probably to keep our ties with Bengali literature alive, he gushes. This year, too, the festivities will continue in the same spirit. Adding a special touch, however, is a programme commemorating the birth centenary of Salil Chowdhury, the legendary musician adored in Kerala as much as in Bengal. All are welcome, says Amitabha. Tapan Jana brings Ganga Maati, soil from the banks of the Hoogly, to mix with the locally procured soil to shape the idol. Evoking Durga Tapan Jana, from Midnapore district, travels across south India in the weeks leading up to Navaratri, making Durga idols for Bengali associations in various districts. Traditionally, the soil used for the idol is procured from the banks of the river Hooghly (called Ganga Maati), mixed with mud from different spots to represent inclusiveness in divinity. But when we make idols outside Bengal, we cannot follow that ritual strictly always, because each average-size idol would require around five sacks of mud and transporting that from Bengal would hike the cost, explains Tapan, who makes seven idols in Kerala during the season before proceeding to Punjab to prepare the idol for Kali Pujo, which falls on the day before Deepawali. I use small portions of Ganga maati, which I mix with locally procured clay and some plaster of Paris to smear on the hay skeleton of the idol to shape it up. The Durga idol is usually readied on Mahalaya, the day before Navaratri begins, with the final ritual being the Chokku Daan the drawing of the eyes. This symbolises the awakening of the divine spirit, and evokes the arrival of the Goddess. I have never been in Kolkata during Durga Pujo all these years, has been making idols for the Trivandrum Bengali Association for 22 years. Every year, my travels for making idols start in July and end somewhere near the end of October. But I am always at one Pujo pandal or another on the festival days.
Kolkata civic body prepares measures following a fresh warning from IMD
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has activated early preparedness measures following a fresh warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) about a developing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to intensify by Nabami (Wednesday) night, a senior official said
From bhog to food courts: Bengaluru serves up Durga Puja delights
Bengaluru will host Durga Puja celebrations soon. Venues promise diverse food and community spirit. Chefs from Kolkata and five-star hotels will prepare bhog and various cuisines. Entry to all pujas is free. Events aim to unite people through culture and food. Several associations will offer daily bhog and many food stalls with regional and international dishes.
First assured transit time container train between Delhi & Kolkata from today
NEW DELHI: The Railway Board is set to launch its first assured transit time (ATT) container train service on Wednesday between Delhis Tughlakabad and Kolkatas Shalimar via Agra and Kanpur. The Ministry of Railways said on Tuesday that the train will have a guaranteed transit time of 120 hours. This development is seen as a significant milestone in the logistics sector. The service, being introduced on a pilot basis, will be operated by the Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR). It will connect four Inland Container Depots (ICDs) along the route: Tughlakabad (TICD), Agra (ICDY), Kanpur (ICDG), and Kolkata (CTKR/CTCS). The train will initially have a bi-weekly schedule, departing every Wednesday and Saturday. A railway statement noted, A unique feature of this service is the hub-and-spoke cargo facility at Agra and Kanpur, enabling efficient cargo aggregation for a wider catchment area. A railway official said, The guaranteed transit time will mark a milestone in the logistics sector by delivering the consignments on time as per its schedule. The Ministry also noted that customers will benefit from a waiver of empty wagon haulage charges between Tughlakabad and Kanpur. Officials clarified that if the train or some containers are empty between the starting point and Kanpur, customers will not be charged extra. Outlining the objectives of this ATT service, the Railway said, The pilot project is expected to provide multiple advantages to customers, including door-to-door assured and reliable delivery for time-sensitive cargo, a competitive alternative to road transport, enhanced connectivity for northern hinterland cargo, and priority benefits for early adopters. The Ministry added that the service supports sustainability by encouraging a shift from road to rail, reducing the carbon footprint, and aligning with Indias commitment to green logistics. Through this initiative, Indian Railways and CONCOR reaffirm their focus on customer-centric, reliable, and sustainable logistics solutions, the ministry said.
ED provisionally attaches 15 crore worth of properties over GST fraud
The Enforcement Directorate attached properties worth 15.41 crore. These assets are in Kolkata and Howrah. This action is part of a GST fraud investigation. The probe involves 135 shell companies across three states. Amit Gupta, an alleged mastermind, owns the attached properties. The accused are currently in judicial custody. The agency launched its investigation based on multiple complaints.
Indian Railways to launch first assured-transit container train from Delhi to Kolkata in October
The bi-weekly service will run from Inland Container Depot (ICD) Tughlakabad in Delhi, to CONCORs CTCS terminal in Kolkata via Agra and Kanpur.
Memories, Family, and Festive Joy
From Kolkatas bustling pandals to quiet celebrations abroad, film stars open up about what Navratri and Durga Puja mean to them
ED attaches immovable properties worth Rs 15.41 crore in GST fraud case
ED`s Ranchi Zonal Office attached these properties in Kolkata and Howrah on September 29 under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002
About Tata Consumer Products Limited Tata Consumer Products Limited is a focused consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests of the Tata Group under one umbrella. The Company's portfolio of products includes tea, coffee, water, RTD, salt, pulses, spices, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat offerings, breakfast cereals, snacks and mini meals. Tata Consumer Products is the 2nd largest branded tea company in the world. Its key beverage brands include Tata Tea, Tetley, Organic India, Eight O'Clock Coffee, Tata Coffee Grand, Himalayan Natural Mineral Water, Tata Copper+ and Tata Gluco+. Its foods portfolio includes brands such as Tata Salt, Tata Sampann, Tata Soulfull, Ching's Secret and Smith & Jones. In India, Tata Consumer Products has a reach of over 275 million households, giving it an unparalleled ability to leverage the Tata brand in consumer products. The Company has a consolidated annual turnover of Rs. 17,618 Crs with operations in India and International markets.
Pre-partition Bengal, Indian freedom movement emerge as popular themes in Kolkatas Durga Pujas
This trend assumes significance with the resurgence of the Bengals pre-partition history and its freedom fighters in public consciousness, through The Bengal Files controversy and with Trinamools Bengali pride campaign
This year, Kolkatas pandals put the spotlight on Bengali pride
Amid the ongoing controversy around Bengali language, identity, and crisis of migrant labourers Durga Pujas bring spotlight to the issue
Theyyam makes Durga Puja debut in Kolkata
KANNUR: The city of joy is ablaze with Durga Puja festivities. Pandals glitter with lights, dhaak beats echo through every lane, and the air carries the fragrance of dhuno. Yet, amid the familiar grandeur, this years celebrations hold something never seen before Keralas theyyam has found its place in Bengals most important festival. At South Kolkatas famed 66 Pally Clubs Durga Puja, the pandal itself tells the story. Built in the style of a traditional Kannur temple, its architecture draws directly from Keralas vastu vidya. Crafted over three months by a team of carpenters from Thalassery, the structure is both a tribute to tradition and a bold experiment in cultural fusion. It cost nearly Rs 25 lakh to complete, but its impact goes far beyond numbers. The highlight is not just the pandal but what unfolds within it. Ten artists from Thiruvananthapuram-based Theyyam Nayana Kala Samiti have arrived in Kolkata for a ten-day programme, performing theyyam live every evening. For many in Bengal, accustomed to worshipping Durga in her majestic idol form, the spectacle of theyyam a performer transformed into a living deity is nothing short of breathtaking. This is our first time being part of Durga Puja in Kolkata, says Vijaya Kumar, one of the theyyam artists. His voice still carries the weight of ritual after a performance. We were surprised when we saw the arrangements here. The pandal has been built on the model of Kerala temples. We came to know this is the first time in the history of Durga Puja that Keralas vastu vidya has been used for a pandal. That itself makes this experience memorable, Kumar says. An artist preparing for theyyam performance in Kolkata The group has been performing different theyyams, including Gulikan and Pottan, each night. Four artists don the elaborate makeup, towering headgear, and vibrant costumes, while others assist in the ritual preparations. Every day, we receive countless accolades and appreciation from the locals. Bengal is truly a land of art and culture. The way people welcomed us here proves it, Kumar adds with a smile. For the 66 Pally Club, this experiment was part of a larger milestone their 75th platinum jubilee celebrations. Kolkatas clubs are known for pushing boundaries with pandal themes every year, says 66 Pally creative designer Gopal Poddar. I make themes versatile each year. For the past few months, I have been researching about theyyam. I travelled to Kannur and met the artists earlier this year. First, I approached artists from Kannur but they declined, citing strict ritual practices that bind their performances to temple groves and ancestral shrines, Poddar says. It was then that the Thiruvananthapuram-based troupe stepped in, ensuring that the art of theyyam could travel beyond its sacred courtyards to Kolkatas festival streets, he says. Here, the result is unimaginable. Social media influencers and local people are rushing to the pandal each day to see the performances, Poddar adds. And unforgettable it is. As crowds throng to see Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura in idol form, they also pause to watch Keralas fierce deities come alive in fire-red faces, swirling movements, and the thunder of chendas. In this space, Bengal and Kerala meet Durga and Theyyam stand side by side, different forms, one spirit.
Western suburbs mirror Santiniketan and Op Sindoor themes at Durga Puja
Mumbai's western suburbs are vibrant with Durga Puja celebrations, showcasing Bengali arts, crafts, and cuisine. Various pandals, including Link Road Puja, Aikatan, and Kallol, feature celebrity performances by Usha Uthup and Shaan, unique themes like Santiniketan and 'A Slice of Kolkata', alongside traditional dhaki and dhunuchi naach, offering a rich cultural experience.
A Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata that is celebrating the coconut
More than 2,000 discarded coconut shells have been used in the decoration of this pandal, located in the neighbourhood of Topsia, in Kolkata
Bank Holidays From September 29 To October 5: Check State-Wise Schedule
Bank Holidays: The RBI has declared September 29 a bank holiday in Agartala, Kolkata, and Guwahati for Maha Saptami, the seventh day of Durga Puja.
Three killed after being hit by train in Bengal
KOLKATA: Three people, including a woman and her child, were killed after being hit by a train while crossing the railway tracks in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district, police said on Monday. The tragic accident occurred near Shyamnagar station on Saturday night, prompting locals to stage a protest and block the tracks for an hour, blaming the railways for negligence. According to eyewitnesses, the woman was crossing the tracks when her child slipped from her arms and fell onto the path of the oncoming Gour Express. A fruit seller on the platform, witnessing the situation, rushed to rescue them but all three were struck by the train. Locals attempted to save the seriously injured victims by arranging for an ambulance. However, the level crossing operator allegedly refused to open the gates to allow the emergency vehicle through. As a result, the victims had to be carried by hand across a distance before being placed in the ambulance. They were taken to a hospital, where doctors declared them dead. Angry residents blocked railway tracks for an hour, protesting the frequent and prolonged closure of the level crossing gates, which they claim forces pedestrians to take dangerous shortcuts across the tracks. Despite repeated complaints to railway authorities, no corrective action has been taken, the protesters alleged. Police and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel arrived at the scene and persuaded the protesters to lift the blockade. Authorities have assured a prompt and thorough investigation into the incident.
West Bengal govt launches emergency measures ahead of heavy rain forecast from October 1
KOLKATA: The West Bengal government has initiated emergency measures following forecasts of heavy rainfall from 1 October, a senior official said on Sunday. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued instructions to officials, and is said to be closely monitoring the developing situation. Taking note of the situation, we have initiated comprehensive emergency measures. All departments concerned have been put on alert. The Chief Minister is personally overseeing developments, the official told PTI. Twelve people have lost their lives in recent incidents of torrential rain and electrocution in Kolkata and adjoining areas. To manage the situation, the administration has set up a control room, where a senior IAS officer will be stationed. Round-the-clock monitoring will be ensured. The control room will remain operational throughout the festive season, from 26 September to 7 October, 2024 October, and 2728 October, the official added. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the likely formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, expected to result in isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall across many parts of West Bengal from 24 October. The IMD has also predicted squally winds with speeds of 3545 km/h, gusting up to 55 km/h during this period. The sea condition is likely to be rough. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea over the north and central Bay of Bengal along and off the West Bengal-Odisha coasts on these days, the IMD said in a bulletin.
Design To Theme, How Durga Puja Pandals In Kolkata Are Using AI
A pavilion in Kolkata is decorated with giant computer keyboards and flashing lights, set against a backdrop resembling IT office towers.
Mohun Bagan pull out of ACL-2 away match against Irans Sepahan
6 of Bagans foreign players refuse to travel Kolkata, Sep 28: Indian Super League champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant have pulled out of their AFC Champions League 2 away match against Irans Sepahan SC scheduled for Tuesday as the clubs six foreign players have declined to travel to that nation following advisories from their respective [] The post Mohun Bagan pull out of ACL-2 away match against Irans Sepahan appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Bong-galore! Dive into the Durga Pujo festivities in Bengaluru
A distinct rhythm and energy take over the city during Dasara, when the Bengali community ushers in the Durga Pujo festivities. Slowly yet steadily, the metropolis transforms into a vibrant canvas blending art, culture and devotion, all mirroring the festival spirit of Kolkata. As the smell of dhuno dhoop lingers in the air and dhaak beats (traditional rhythms played on the Dhak a barrel shaped drum, signifying the start of the festival in Bengal) echo across pandals, Durga Pujo in the city this year shapes up to be a homage to Bengals rich culture and community. For communication professional Karan Sharma, the pujo is a true-blue emotion. Pandal hopping has always been a personal ritual, he says, recalling nights lit with fairy lights and the warmth of home. He finds solace in pandals spread across Ulsoor, Whitefield and Koramangala, where cultural performances and food stalls make the city feel like a mini-Bengal. Ankita Purkayastha pandal hops Far from home and hit by nostalgia, for many, the festival evokes a sense of homecoming. Account executive Ankita Purkayasthas memories, which she holds close to her heart, are steeped in family traditions, from offering anjali on Ashtami to pandal hopping with her father on his scooty. Though she misses the grand family feasts and childhood friends back home, she finds comfort in the familiar beats of the dhaak at local pandals. The sound of the dhaak is the heartbeat of the Pujo, she highlights. Akin to the previous years, this time, Bengalurus pandals are not just venues for prayers but spaces of cultural expression. The Bongodhara Cultural Association is all geared up with its Gram Bangla theme this year a deeply evocative tribute to rural Bengal. Set against an earthy backdrop of mud walls, alpona (motifs made with rice paste) and a traditional ek chala durga idol, the pandal transports visitors to a Bengal of simplicity and togetherness. The idea behind Gram Bangla is to honour the roots of Durga Pujo in rural Bengal. We want people to experience the warmth, simplicity and togetherness that define celebrations in villages, without losing the devotion and happiness that the festival embodies, says Aparajta Ray, a representative of Bongodhara Cultural Association. The Gram Bangla-themed pandal Yet the citys cosmopolitan nature adds another layer to the celebrations, says Sharma, highlighting Bengalurus diverse culture. Being away from Bengal, I miss the grandeur and the familiar faces back home. But Bengaluru makes up for it in its own way as the city is full of beautifully decorated pandals, complete with cultural performances and, of course, food stalls serving everything from Bengali classics to local delicacies, he says. What binds them all, whether native Bengali or honorary, is the food. Dishes like kosha mangsho, fish fry, mishti doi and luchi-ghugni are must-haves. Its when Maa Durga, the daughter of the family, returns to her parents home, and so, we too celebrate the occasion of abundance. From dum aloo, ilish mach to mutton biriyani and festival essentials like roshogolla, every dish is a part of the feast. Its not just about eating but about sharing meals with your loved ones, reliving recipes passed down through generations and creating memories, Purkayastha explains.
Durga Puja revellers flock early to pandals in West Bengal fearing rain
Durga Puja festivities will peak over the next fourdays of Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami; large crowds were seen in Kolkata, its suburbs, and in the districts across West Bengal on Sasthi, the sixth day of the festival
Kolkata Durga Puja Organisers Allege Police Trying to Curb Festivities
Referring to this, Mr Ghosh argued, Police are trying to shut down the puja by staging a mishap and putting the blame on the organisers. Visitors are forced to walk on the narrow lanes instead of the big ones.
The foreign delegation, which had representation from various parts of the globe, from UK, Estonia, France, Guatemala, Italy, Germany, Sri Lanka to Ukraine, was welcomed at the inauguration of the Puja Pandal by Sundeep Bhutoria, Chairman of the Chaltabagan Durga Puja Committee.
11 Electrocuted in Kolkata: Heavy Rains Spark Outrage Over 'Unsafe' Lamp Posts
Just before Durga Puja, Kolkata remains gripped by severe waterlogging which has claimed 11 lives in five days.
Culture meets commerce at Kolkatas Durga Puja
Durga Puja in Kolkata has grown from a neighbourhood festival to a tourist attraction, one that brings in money to different stakeholders. Bishwanath Ghosh speaks to the different communities that benefit from the yearly extravaganza
