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New Delhi World Book Fair 2025: A Literary Extravaganza at Bharat Mandapam

 

The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 at Bharat Mandapam offers a vibrant and engaging environment for book lovers of all ages.

The fair is a major literary event, attracting book enthusiasts, writers, and publishing professionals from around the world. It is a large event with over 2,000 stalls and an anticipated 1.8 million visitors from more than 40 countries. The fair includes a wide range of activities, such as author meet-and-greets, cultural events, seminars, and industry discussions. 

  • The fair takes place in the newly constructed Halls 2-6 (Ground Floor) at the Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
  • The venue is accessible through Gate 10, with additional entry points at Gates 4 and 6. Gates 4 and 8 are equipped with wheelchair facilities.
  • To enhance visitor comfort, 20 eco-friendly benches have been placed throughout the fair.

The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 has two themes: “Republic@75” and “We, the People of India”, both celebrating 75 years of the Indian Constitution. Another theme is “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Books for One World”, reflecting the unifying power of literature.

The “Kidz Kingdom,” a vibrant and bustling children’s zone, was a hit at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam. Young book lovers and their families flocked to this dedicated area, eager to immerse themselves in a world of stories and creativity.

The children’s pavilion offered a wide array of engaging activities designed to foster a love for reading among young minds. Storytelling sessions captivated audiences as talented narrators brought tales to life with colorful characters and exciting adventures. Calligraphy classes introduced children to the art of beautiful writing, while caricature and painting workshops allowed them to unleash their inner artists.

The theme of the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, “We, the People of India,” celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, was also woven into the children’s zone.

The fair featured more than 1,000 writers, authors, and speakers, with over 600 literary programs and 200 cultural events.

The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 took place from February 1 to February 9. Tickets were available for purchase online at www.nbtindia.gov.in and offline. Entry was free for students in school uniforms and senior citizens.

  • Storytelling sessions: Renowned authors will conduct storytelling sessions.
  • Workshops and interactive activities: These will foster reading habits among young minds.
  • Panel discussions: Discussions will focus on topics related to children’s literature.
  • Contests and quizzes: These will engage young minds.
  • Child Author’s Corner: This corner will showcase young writers.
  • Illustrator Corner: There will be an illustrator corner to display the work of illustrators in publishing.
  • These activities will involve teachers, students, and children from government and private schools

Bisleri International has showcased sustainable innovations, including bookshelves and benches crafted from eco-friendly materials. They also display models demonstrating the transformation of used plastics into valuable products

Comedy or Controversy? Allahbadia’s Remarks on YouTube Show Spark Outrage, Legal Scrutiny

Podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, popularly known as BeerBiceps, has found himself embroiled in a significant controversy following inappropriate remarks made during an episode of comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show, India’s Got Latent. The incident has sparked outrage across social media and has led to legal repercussions, with multiple complaints filed against him and others involved in the episode.

The controversy erupted after Allahbadia posed a shocking question to a contestant that hinted at incest, asking, “Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once to make it stop forever?” This comment was met with immediate backlash from viewers and netizens who deemed it offensive and vulgar. Critics have pointed out that such remarks cross ethical boundaries, especially given Allahbadia’s large following and influence as a content creator.

In response to the uproar, a team from the Mumbai Police visited Allahbadia’s residence for questioning. An FIR has been registered against him, Samay Raina, Apoorva Makhija, and other participants from the show for promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit discussions.

The Maharashtra Women’s Commission has also expressed concern over the comments made during the episode, emphasizing the need for accountability among content creators.
The fallout from this incident has been substantial.

The episode of India’s Got Latent featuring Ranveer Allahbadia has been taken down from YouTube. The removal follows government orders in response to the “obscene and perverse comments” made by Allahbadia on the show. The Information and Broadcasting Ministry asked YouTube to remove the episode after facing heavy criticism and legal action.

Following the public outcry, Allahbadia issued an apology via social media, admitting that his remarks were inappropriate and confirming that the controversial segments had been removed from the show. Despite his attempts to mitigate the situation, the damage appears to have been done; he has reportedly lost thousands of followers on social media platforms since the incident. Within five days, he lost over 8,300 Instagram followers, with 4,205 from his “BeerBiceps” account and 4,153 from his personal account. Some reports indicate he has lost 25,000 followers on Instagram and over 40,000 subscribers on YouTube.

Political leaders have also weighed in on the matter. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Allahbadia’s remarks, stating that freedom of speech should not infringe upon others’ rights. Additionally, Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Rajya Sabha MP, announced her intention to raise the issue in Parliament, highlighting the broader implications of such content on societal norms.

The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has called for an immediate ban on India’s Got Latent, labeling it as deeply disrespectful to societal values. They have urged stricter regulations on digital content and demanded legal action against those responsible for the episode.

The AICWA’s statement reflects growing concerns about the impact of provocative online content on audiences and societal standards.

As the controversy unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of digital content creators and their influence on public discourse. The incident serves as a reminder that humor must be navigated carefully in today’s sensitive cultural landscape.

With ongoing investigations by both Mumbai Police and political scrutiny, it remains to be seen how this situation will evolve and what consequences await those involved.

From Podcast King to Pariah? Ranveer Allahbadia Faces Fallout After “India’s Got Latent” Debacle – B Praak Pulls Out

Ranveer Allahbadia, the popular YouTuber and podcaster known as BeerBiceps, is facing a significant career crisis after his appearance on Samay Raina’s “India’s Got Latent” sparked widespread outrage. The controversy stems from an inappropriate question Allahbadia posed to a contestant on the show, which many deemed vulgar, offensive, and harmful. But the fallout doesn’t stop there: now, prominent singer B Praak has publicly condemned Allahbadia and cancelled an upcoming appearance on his podcast.

Allahbadia’s “joke,” made during a “Would You Rather?” segment, involved a sexually suggestive scenario involving the contestant’s parents. The remark was met with stunned silence from some of the other judges, including Samay Raina himself. While the judges laughed off Ranveer’s comments, social media was not as forgiving.

Swift and Severe Backlash – And a Growing Boycott: The clip of Allahbadia’s comment quickly went viral, triggering a massive wave of criticism on social media platforms. Many users condemned the joke as tasteless, disrespectful, and harmful, particularly given the show’s accessibility to younger audiences. Some called for a boycott of Allahbadia’s content, while others demanded stricter regulation of online content.

Adding to the pressure, singer B Praak has publicly withdrawn from an upcoming appearance on Allahbadia’s “BeerBiceps” podcast, citing concerns about the “pathetic thinking” displayed on “India’s Got Latent”.

In a video message posted on social media, B Praak didn’t mince words, slamming both Allahbadia and Raina for their behavior. He stated that the content being produced on “India’s Got Latent” is not representative of Indian culture and expressed concern about the impact such content could have on future generations.

B Praak further questioned Allahbadia’s promotion of “Sanatan Dharma” and spirituality, asking how someone who invites “big people” and “saints” onto their podcast could harbor such “pathetic thinking”.

In the video he said: “Main na yaar, ek podcast mein jaane wala tha abhi, jo Beer Biceps ka tha, par humne cancel kar diya. Kyun? Kyunki aapko pata hai ki waha kaisi pathetic thinking hai aur kaise shabd use kiye ja rahe hain? Samay Raina ke show pe jo ho raha hai, yeh hamara Indian culture nahi hai. Yeh bilkul bhi hamara culture nahi (I was about to go to Beer Biceps podcast, but I have cancelled it because of his pathetic thinking. What is happening on Samay Raina’s show is not our Indian culture).”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also weighed in on the controversy, stating that while everyone has freedom of speech, that freedom ends when it infringes upon the freedom of others.

Faced with mounting pressure, Allahbadia issued an apology video on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging that his comment was inappropriate and not even funny:

However, the apology has been met with mixed reactions, with many accusing Allahbadia of insincerity and questioning whether his actions truly reflect a change in perspective. Some users have pointed out that Allahbadia’s past content has often pushed boundaries and that this incident may be part of a pattern.

The “India’s Got Latent” controversy has undoubtedly damaged Allahbadia’s reputation and raised questions about his future as a content creator. B Praak’s public condemnation adds further pressure, potentially leading to a wider boycott of Allahbadia’s content.

While he has built a large following over the years, his credibility is now being questioned, and it remains to be seen whether he can regain the trust of his audience and partners.

The controversy also highlights the ongoing debate about the boundaries of humor and the responsibility of content creators to consider the potential impact of their words, particularly in a digital landscape where content can be easily accessed by anyone.

What do you think? Is B Praak’s condemnation a turning point in this controversy, and can Ranveer Allahbadia truly recover from this damage? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Karnataka Global Investors Meet 2025: A Bold Vision or an Overambitious Gamble?

Karnataka is pulling out all the stops to attract global investors to its flagship Global Investors Meet, “Invest Karnataka 2025,” kicking off on February 11 and running through February 14. The ambitious summit aims to reel in a staggering ₹10 lakh crore (approximately $120 billion USD) in investment proposals – but can the state really achieve this ambitious goal?

What’s on the Agenda? The Karnataka Global Investors Meet, themed “Reimagining Growth,” is designed to showcase the state’s strategic advantages in innovation, industrial development, and global partnerships. Minister for Large and Medium Industries, MB Patil, has been the driving force behind the event, leading delegations to the US, South Korea, Japan, and Europe to drum up interest.

The event boasts a jam-packed schedule, including:

Over 75 marquee speakers from around the globe, including business visionaries like Anand Mahindra (Mahindra & Mahindra), Kumar Mangalam Birla (Aditya Birla Group), and Martin Lundstedt (Volvo Group).

More than 25 technical sessions, offering insights into global economic trends and emerging technologies.

10+ country sessions and SME Connect discussions, fostering international collaboration and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

A “Future of Innovation Expo,” showcasing cutting-edge developments in mobility, defense, biotechnology, and more.

The Karnataka Global Investors Meet is attracting a high-profile guest list. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the event, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presiding. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition, will launch the revamped Single Window System and the state’s new Industrial Policy 2025-30. Several Union Ministers, including Nirmala Sitharaman and Piyush Goyal, have also confirmed their attendance. Nineteen countries will be participating as partner nations, with nine setting up dedicated pavilions to showcase investment opportunities.

The Karnataka Global Investors Meet is more than just a conference; it’s a crucial opportunity for the state to solidify its position as a leading investment destination. The government hopes to convert at least 70% of the investment proposals into actual projects, boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and improving infrastructure

The focus is on attracting investments in key sectors such as:

  • Aerospace
  • Renewable Energy
  • Electronics
  • Semiconductors
  • Advanced Manufacturing

While the Karnataka Global Investors Meet presents a significant opportunity, it also faces challenges Global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and competition from other states could impact investment decisions. Success will depend on Karnataka’s ability to offer attractive incentives, streamline regulations, and ensure a business-friendly environment.

Karnataka has been actively pursuing strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment and strengthen its position in the global market. Minister MB Patil has led delegations to the US, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and various European nations, engaging with potential investors and promoting Karnataka as an attractive destination.

A recent agreement with the University of Liverpool underscores the state’s commitment to fostering academic and research collaborations, further enhancing its appeal to high-tech industries. Additionally, the government has revamped its Single Window System to streamline investment approvals and create a more business-friendly environment

As the event unfolds, all eyes will be on Karnataka to see if it can translate its ambitious vision into concrete investment and sustainable economic growth.

What do you think? Can Karnataka achieve its ambitious investment target? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Trump’s Gaza Strip Proposal: US to “Take Over” and Develop the Region, Says President

Arvind Kejriwal to meet Bhagwant Mann, Punjab AAP MLAs today amid Crisis

Arvind Kejriwal summoned Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his MLAs to Delhi on Tuesday for a crucial meeting, igniting speculation about the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) stability in its last remaining stronghold. The Kejriwal Punjab Meeting comes in the wake of a drubbing in the recent Delhi Assembly elections and growing whispers of internal strife within the Punjab unit. Is AAP’s grip on Punjab loosening?

The AAP’s performance in the Delhi elections, where it secured a mere 22 seats compared to the BJP’s 48, has sent shockwaves through the party. This defeat, after a decade in power, has raised serious questions about AAP’s future prospects, particularly in Punjab, where it swept the 2022 Assembly elections with 92 seats. The Kejriwal Punjab Meeting aims to analyze what went wrong in Delhi and prevent a similar outcome in Punjab.

Adding fuel to the fire, Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa has claimed that over 30 AAP MLAs in Punjab are in contact with his party and are ready to jump ship. While AAP leaders have dismissed these claims as “impossible dreams,” the rumors of dissatisfaction within the Punjab unit are hard to ignore. There is speculation that Arvind Kejriwal might take a more active role in Punjab politics. With the Ludhiana assembly seat vacant, observers are discussing the possibility of Kejriwal contesting from there and joining the Punjab government.

While AAP leaders are downplaying the significance of the Kejriwal Punjab Meeting, sources suggest that the agenda includes:

  • Analyzing the Delhi election results and identifying the reasons for AAP’s defeat.
  • Addressing concerns about internal unity and stemming the tide of potential defections.
  • Planning for the Punjab Assembly elections in 2027.
  • Discussing the possibility of Kejriwal taking on a more active role in Punjab politics.

The BJP and Congress are seizing on AAP’s troubles, predicting a similar downfall in Punjab. BJP leaders have gone so far as to suggest that the Kejriwal Punjab Meeting is a prelude to the removal of Bhagwant Mann from the Chief Minister’s post. Congress leaders, meanwhile, are openly courting disgruntled AAP MLAs, hoping to trigger mid-term polls.

The Kejriwal Punjab Meeting is undoubtedly a critical moment for the Aam Aadmi Party. The outcome of this meeting could determine whether AAP can hold onto its last major state or whether it will succumb to internal divisions and opposition pressure.

What do you think? Can Kejriwal turn things around in Punjab, or is AAP heading for a fall? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Is Haryana BJP’s Maverick Minister, Anil Vij, Finally Gone Too Far?

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Haryana’s political circles are buzzing after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) issued a show cause notice to senior minister Anil Vij, a seven-time MLA known for his outspoken nature. The notice, prompted by instructions from BJP national president JP Nadda, accuses Vij of publicly criticizing Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and state party president Mohan Lal Badoli, actions deemed a breach of party discipline but what exactly did Vij say, and could this be the end of his run?

Vij’s recent outbursts have been directed at both Saini and Badoli. He has been critical of Saini’s leadership, saying the CM has been constantly flying in an “udan khatola” (chopper) and isn’t paying enough attention to the suffering of the people. Vij also insinuated that Saini tried plotting his defeat in the 2024 assembly polls. Vij also said that BJP state unit chief Mohan Lal Badoli should step down till he is cleared of allegations of rape lodged by a woman in a case registered in Himachal Pradesh .

Furthermore, Vij has expressed frustration over officials not following his orders and a lack of action against those he accuses of working against him in the recent elections. He had even threatened to go on a hunger strike to advocate for his Ambala Cantt constituents.

While the immediate triggers for Vij’s criticism appear to be related to specific grievances and a perceived lack of action on his complaints, sources suggest a deeper issue at play. According to sources, Vij is fundamentally opposed to the “centralization of powers” in the hands of the chief minister.

The show cause notice, issued by Haryana BJP president Mohan Lal Badoli, states that Vij’s public statements violate party policy and internal discipline. The BJP is actively engaged in an election campaign in a neighboring state (Delhi), Vij’s statements potentially harmed the party’s image and unity, the notice said.

The notice highlights Article 25 of the BJP’s organizational Constitution, which states that taking a party dispute to any agency outside the party, including the media, and acting in a way calculated to lower the prestige of the party would amount to a breach of discipline. Vij has been given three days to respond to the notice.

The BJP now faces a delicate situation. Vij is a senior leader with a significant following, particularly in his Ambala Cantt constituency. However, his repeated public criticism of the party leadership cannot be ignored.

The state disciplinary action committee will review Vij’s explanation and submit its report to the state president within 15 days. The state president will then take action on the recommendation of the committee within a week.

The outcome of this process remains to be seen. Will Vij apologize and mend fences with the party leadership, or will he continue to challenge the status quo? Could this lead to Vij’s expulsion from the party, or will a compromise be reached?

What do you think? Has Anil Vij crossed a line, or is he simply speaking truth to power? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl: Was It a Mic Drop or a Missed Opportunity?

Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl: Did Kendrick Serve Up a Masterpiece or Just More Fuel for the Drake Fire?

Okay, let’s talk Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl. The halftime show at Super Bowl LIX was the moment everyone was waiting for, right? But now that the confetti has settled, the internet’s still buzzing – but not everyone’s singing the same tune.

Was it a legendary performance or a set overshadowed by the Drake drama?

A Setlist That Sparked Debate:

Kendrick hit the stage with a mix of his tracks, including snippets of “Humble,” “DNA,” and “All the Stars”. Then came the moment everyone was waiting (or dreading) – “Not Like Us,” the scorching diss aimed at Drake. He even brought out Serena Williams and Samuel L. Jackson, adding extra star power to the set. But did it all work? The performance took place on a massive tic-tac-toe board. The stage setup, assembled in about five minutes, was exceptional.

 The “Not Like Us” Factor: Genius Move or Bad Look?

Here’s where things get spicy. Kendrick knew exactly what he was doing when he launched into “Not Like Us”. Before performing, he acknowledged the speculation that he might not even be allowed to play the song, then looked straight into the camera and grinned while mentioning Drake’s name. Amazing? Absolutely. But did it steal the show for the wrong reasons?

Lamar started the performance in a black Buick GNX, a car with deep personal significance. The Buick GNX is a symbol of classic American muscle, but it’s also a direct reference to his past and his journey from Compton to superstardom. The car, which has been referenced in his music before, represents resilience, struggle, and triumph.

The internet exploded with opinions, and trust us, they were varied.

  • “This is Hip Hop!” Many praised Kendrick for a performance that was unapologetically Black, complex, and full of cultural references. They saw it as a powerful statement on a global stage. One Reddit user said that Kendrick’s performance at the Super Bowl was “rapping at the super bowl half time show without a backing track is legendary getting 5 grammys off of and performing a diss track at the super bowl is legendary “I really don’t see how anyone can top this rap beef going forward”.
  • “Worst Halftime Show Ever!” Others slammed the performance as “bad,” confusing, and a missed opportunity. One disgruntled fan tweeted: “Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl 2025 halftime show dubbed ‘ worst ever’ performance
  • “Where’s the Pop?” Some viewers felt the performance lacked the mainstream appeal needed for a Super Bowl show. One user on Reddit noted “I feel like a couple of his songs were good for the show, but a lot didn’t have the “pop” I’d expect from a half time show.”.

One unexpected moment came when a protester pulled out a banner featuring the flags of Palestine and Sudan, along with a heart and a raised fist. The individual was quickly removed from the stage, but the image spread rapidly online. While this wasn’t part of Lamar’s planned performance, it added another layer of political discourse to the night. 

The Engagement Factor: Did the Message Get Through?

While some restaurant crowds were seen belting out “Not Like Us”, others seemed less engaged. Did Kendrick connect with the entire Super Bowl audience, or just his core fanbase? That’s the million-dollar question.

Beyond the Beef: What Was the Bigger Picture?

Love it or hate it, Kendrick’s performance got people talking. He touched on themes of social justice, cultural identity, and artistic expression. Was the Drake controversy a distraction from these deeper messages, or did it amplify them?

The Verdict:

The Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl halftime show was anything but boring. It was a bold, complex, and controversial performance that sparked a ton of debate. Whether you think it was a triumph or a letdown, one thing’s for sure: Kendrick made his mark. Whether you loved it or hated it, the Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl halftime show was a moment that won’t soon be forgotten.

Now it’s your turn. Sound off in the comments: Did Kendrick kill it, or did the Drake drama take over?

#BoycottLaila: Political Storm Clouds Threaten Vishwak Sen’s Upcoming Movie

#BoycottLaila: Political Comments Trigger Backlash Against Vishwak Sen’s “Laila”

Vishwak Sen’s upcoming film, Laila, is facing unexpected headwinds as a political controversy erupts, leading to the trending hashtag #BoycottLaila on social media. The controversy stems from political comments made by actor Prudhvi Raj (also known as “30 Years Industry” Prudhvi) during the film’s pre-release event on Sunday.

During the pre-release event in Hyderabad, Prudhvi Raj, while discussing his role in Laila, made remarks that were interpreted as a veiled dig at the YSRCP (YSR Congress Party), a political party in Andhra Pradesh. Specifically, Prudhvi alluded to the number of MLA seats the YSRCP won in the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections. Specifically, he said, “There was a time when I saw 150 goats in one place. But by the end of the shoot, there were only 11 goats left”. This was interpreted as a dig at the YSRCP, whose seats dropped from 150 to 11. While the actor did not explicitly mention any political party, YSRCP supporters took offense, leading to calls for a boycott of the film.

#BoycottLaila Trends:

Supporters of the YSRCP began trending #BoycottLaila on X (formerly Twitter), expressing their outrage and calling for a boycott of the film. Some users even threatened to leak a pirated HD print of the movie online, a direct attack on the livelihood of everyone involved in the project. The hashtag quickly gained traction, with thousands of tweets demanding an apology from the film’s team.

Faced with the growing backlash, Laila’s producer, Sahu Garapati, and lead actor, Vishwak Sen, addressed the media to clarify their stance and attempt to quell the controversy. Sahu Garapati expressed shock over the situation, stating that he and the film’s team were unaware of Prudhvi Raj’s comments as they were waiting outside for Chiranjeevi, who attended the event as chief guest. He apologized to anyone who felt offended.

Vishwak Sen also apologized for the incident, stating that Prudhvi Raj’s comments did not represent the overall opinion of the film’s team. He pleaded with viewers to separate politics from the film and watch it as a “pure commercial entertainer”. Vishwak clarified that Prudhvi’s remarks were his personal opinion.

Laila, directed by Ram Narayan and produced by Sahu Garapati, is scheduled to release on Valentine’s Day. The film has already faced criticism for Vishwak Sen’s portrayal of a woman in the film, with some finding it to be in a negative light. The latest controversy adds another layer of challenge for the film’s team.

It remains to be seen whether Vishwak Sen’s apology will be enough to appease those calling for a boycott. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding political commentary in the film industry and the potential impact of social media campaigns on a movie’s success

Thandel Movie: Naga Chaitanya & Sai Pallavi Light Up the Screen in a Tale of Love & Resilience

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Thandel Box Office: A Promising Start for the Telugu Romantic Action Film

Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi’s latest Telugu film, Thandel, is making waves at the box office, crossing the ₹50 crore mark worldwide in just three days. Despite facing competition from other releases, including Ajith’s Vidaamuyarchi and the Hindi film Badass Ravikumar, Thandel has maintained an impressive pace, fueled by positive word-of-mouth. Thandel is a 2025 Telugu-language romantic action thriller film starring Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, directed by Chandoo Mondeti and produced by Bunny Vasu under Geetha Arts. The film is inspired by a real-life incident from 2018, in which fishermen from Srikakulam were captured by Pakistani forces after accidentally drifting into international waters.

Worldwide Collection:

  • Day 3 Worldwide: ₹52.05 crore
  • Overseas Collection: ₹8.1 crore
  • India Gross Collection: ₹43.95 crore

India Net Collection:

  • Total (3 Days): ₹37.25 crore
  • Day 1: ₹11.5 crore
  • Day 2: ₹12.1 crore
  • Day 3: ₹13.11 crore
  • Day 4: Approximately ₹4.75 crore (early estimates)

Performance Details:

Thandel witnessed a steady upward trend in its first three days, with a slight increase of 3% on Day 3, earning ₹13.11 crore. The film has performed well in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. However, collections from the Telugu market for Vidaamuyarchi have been modest, bringing in just Rs 1.39 crore in four days.

Budget and Breakeven:

  • Thandel was made on a budget of ₹75 crore.
  • The film has already recovered approximately 49% of its budget with its India net collection.
  • To be considered a hit, Thandel needs to earn ₹76 crore worldwide.

Comparisons and Competition:

Thandel is holding its own against other releases, including Ajith’s Vidaamuyarchi, which has grossed Rs 92 crores worldwide in four days despite mixed reviews. Badass Ravikumar has earned ₹4.76 Cr India net in 3 days.

Early Estimates for Day 4:

Early estimates suggest that Thandel earned around ₹4.75 Cr India net on its fourth day for all languages. However, it’s important to note that this is live data and subject to change.

About the Film:

The Thandel movie revolves around Raju (Naga Chaitanya), a fearless fisherman from a coastal village in Srikakulam, and Satya (Sai Pallavi), his childhood sweetheart. Their love story is deeply intertwined with the sea, as Raju spends nine months of the year fishing near Gujarat to provide for his family. Satya, concerned for Raju’s safety, pleads with him to find a different occupation. However, Raju, now honored with the title of “Thandel” (leader) among his people, feels obligated to continue his family’s tradition and provide for his community.
Despite Satya’s warnings, Raju embarks on another fishing expedition, unknowingly crossing into Pakistani waters. He and his crew are arrested and imprisoned in Karachi Central Jail, turning their lives upside down. The film then follows Satya’s desperate struggle to bring Raju and the other fishermen back home, highlighting the challenges she faces in her quest.

Cast:

  • Naga Chaitanya as Raju
  • Sai Pallavi as Satya
  • Prakash Belawadi as Pakistani Jailer
  • Divya Pillai as Chandra
  • Rao Ramesh
  • Babloo Prithiveeraj as Satya’s father

Music:

The music of Thandel is composed by Devi Sri Prasad. Critics have praised the music as being the soul of the film, particularly the use of the “Bujji Thalli” song throughout the film

The Verdict:

Thandel has had a promising start. The film is steadily marching towards profitability. With positive word-of-mouth and a strong cast, Thandel is expected to continue its impressive run.

 

Pushpa 2 Nears Baahubali 2’s Box Office Record with Rs. 1,719 Crore Worldwide Gross Collection

“It’s over for Blinkit, Instamart and Zepto”: Indian startup claims to deliver a human in just 10 minutes, sparks controversy

From X

In a world obsessed with speed and instant gratification, Indian startup Topmate.io is taking the concept of “quick commerce” to a whole new level. Forget 10-minute grocery deliveries – Topmate.io claims to offer instant access to career experts, delivering human guidance and advice in a blazing-fast 10 minutes! The bold claim has sparked both excitement and skepticism, with many wondering if this is the future of mentorship or just a clever marketing ploy.

“It’s OVER for Blinkit, Zepto, and Instamart!”

Topmate.io‘s audacious promise was announced by Nimisha Chanda, the company’s Marketing Lead, in a tweet that sent ripples across social media. “It’s OVER for Blinkit, Zepto, and Instamart,” she declared, “Because we’re not just delivering groceries in 10 minutes—we’re delivering humans. “According to Topmate.io, these aren’t just any humans; they’re industry professionals, experts, and thought leaders ready to provide personalized career guidance, answer pressing questions, and offer valuable insights. The service is available daily between 6 PM and 10 PM, allowing users to directly connect with experts for real-time advice.

How Does Topmate.io Work?

The platform boasts a vast network of over 300,000 professionals, creators, and experts, and has already garnered a 4.9-star rating from over a million users. Topmate.io aims to bridge the gap between individuals seeking advice and professionals willing to share their knowledge.

Nimisha Chanda explained that Topmate.io offers an alternative to endless Google searches and guesswork. Instead of sifting through countless articles and forums, users can instantly connect with experts who have “been there, done that”

Social Media Buzz: Innovation or Overreach?

The announcement of Topmate.io‘s “10-minute human delivery” service has generated a flurry of reactions online. Many users have praised the startup’s innovative approach, expressing enthusiasm for the prospect of instant access to expert advice. One user commented, “It seems like someone is right across the table to talk! Interesting thought. “However, skepticism abounds. Some users have questioned the feasibility of the service, wondering how Topmate.io can ensure the quality and reliability of the advice provided. Others have raised concerns about potential costs and limitations. “How is this different than hiring a consultant?” one user asked. Another commented, “No any guidance will give job, you will just end up losing some bucks and hope. Go, sit and learn skills, make yourself worthy.”

 Additional Input and Analysis:

  • The Gig Economy of Advice: Topmate.io taps into the growing gig economy, offering a platform for experts to monetize their knowledge and experience. This could be a win-win for both advisors and those seeking guidance, but it also raises questions about fair compensation and the potential for exploitation.
  • Quality Control Concerns: Ensuring consistent quality across a network of 300,000+ experts is a significant challenge. Topmate.io will need to implement robust screening and feedback mechanisms to maintain user trust.
  • The “Human” Element: While the promise of instant access is appealing, some users may miss the deeper engagement and personalized attention that comes with traditional mentorship or consulting relationships. Can a 10-minute call truly provide meaningful guidance?
  • Marketing Hype vs. Reality: Topmate.io‘s bold claims have undoubtedly generated buzz, but the company will need to deliver on its promises to avoid becoming a cautionary tale of over-hyped startups.

The Verdict?

Topmate.io‘s “10-minute human delivery” service is certainly a bold and intriguing concept. Whether it’s a revolutionary approach to career guidance or a clever marketing stunt remains to be seen. One thing is for sure: Topmate.io has captured the internet’s attention, and the world will be watching to see if they can truly deliver on their audacious promise.