SPECTACLES
New Ramayana lacks 'divinity & devotion', says original 'Laxman' Sunil Lahri; calls Sita Ji's way of addressing Lord Ram inappropriate
Sunil Lahri, who played Lakshman in Ramanand Sagar's 'Ramayan', has shared his mixed review of Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana'. While praising its grand visuals, cinematography and performances, he said the film lacked the divinity and devotional sentiment associated with the epic. He also criticised the missing Ahalya episode, the Parashurama sequence and certain dialogues.
Ramayana builds a stronger domestic bridge amid global push
Ramayana: Part 1 has earned ₹403.9 crore in India and ₹260 crore overseas in its first six days, despite a much wider international release. Trade experts attribute its limited appeal in Western markets to cultural unfamiliarity, simplified storytelling and a lack of emotional depth, while competition from established franchises adds pressure.
US Secy of State Rubio defends Hegseth amid impeachment bid, says "Pete executed a direct order" from President Trump
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during an impeachment effort. Rubio argued that Hegseth acted on President Donald Trump's direct orders regarding military operations. He emphasized the necessity of addressing threats posed by Iran, Yemen, and Venezuela. In a press briefing, Hegseth defended the legality of these military actions and criticized the impeachment as politically motivated.
"Certainly not going to indulge in any finger pointing": Hegseth after JD Vance links Iran war to GOP midterm losses
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed concerns regarding military actions and ongoing impeachment efforts. He emphasized that military operations in Iran and other regions were lawful and necessary. Hegseth dismissed the impeachment resolution introduced by Representative Thomas Massie as a political stunt driven by personal motives. Despite criticism, he maintained the significance of the military's role in national security.
'A' plus plus plus grade: Trump praises Pete Hegseth's performance
President Trump has endorsed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during his defense against impeachment initiated by Thomas Massie. Hegseth faces charges related to military operations in Iran, Yemen, and Venezuela which some lawmakers say violate the Constitution. His strong rebuttal emphasizes legality and stress over political motivations behind the impeachment resolution. The House is set to examine these allegations further, with proceedings currently underway.
Why is Sheikh Hasina's plan to return to Bangladesh contentious?
Bangladesh has rejected a fresh passport request from former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who plans to return from exile in India in December despite facing a death sentence over the 2024 crackdown on protesters. With Dhaka urging New Delhi to extradite her, Hasina's possible return could reignite political tensions, test the new government and threaten Bangladesh's fragile stability.
Actor who played Lord Krishna in BR Chopra's Mahabharat withdraws praise for Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana movie. ‘I cannot find a single good word’
Nitish Bharadwaj, who played Lord Krishna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, has withdrawn his earlier appreciation for Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana, criticising its portrayal of Ravan. Meanwhile, Mukesh Khanna has questioned the film’s creative liberties, particularly Sita’s reported fight sequence. Khanna clarified that his comments were based on promotional material, not the film itself.
Diwali 2026: From Ayodhya’s sea of diyas to Goa’s fiery Narkasurs, India celebrates the festival in splendour
India celebrates Diwali on November 8 with spectacular displays of devotion and tradition, from lakhs of diyas illuminating Ayodhya’s Saryu ghats to giant Narkasur effigies burning in Goa. As families prepare for Lakshmi Puja, security is tightened, special trains ferry festive travellers and temples across Uttar Pradesh host elaborate celebrations.
Robert Pattinson's Primetime on OTT: Where and how to watch the thriller inspired by To Catch a Predator
Chris Hansen, former host of To Catch a Predator, has criticised Primetime, the Robert Pattinson-led thriller inspired by investigations featured on his show. In a September 25 post on X, Hansen described the film as “bizarre” and “in and out of reality”, saying its portrayal felt detached from his actual experiences.
Modern dating's hottest currency is clarity, consistency and the courage to communicate
A recent first date highlighted the challenges faced in contemporary dating, particularly regarding emotional unavailability and vague intentions. Miscommunication often leads to misunderstandings and disappointment. By recognizing each other's emotional states, partners can create a shield against blame in their relationships. Still, the quest for clear intentions and honest dialogues is both rare and sought-after. Ultimately, forming real connections calls for both emotional bravery and openness from both parties.
Diwali Patakha from China: The world's fireworks capital is reinventing its centuries-old industry
Liuyang in China's Hunan province is a significant hub for global fireworks production. The county supplies around 60% of the domestic fireworks market and 70% of exports. This industry has evolved to incorporate advanced technology, like digital ignition and AI. Although safety measures have improved since past catastrophic incidents, risks still exist.
The high price of being King Trump: How tariffs and war fuelled voter anger
Inflation has significantly impacted the political careers of Biden and Trump. Rising costs have led to voter discontent against both administrations in recent elections. Trump's tariff policies and military actions have contributed to increasing economic burdens on citizens. Democrats now have an opportunity to implement policies that address voter concerns about inflation and foreign conflict. Improving these areas could help position them competitively for the 2028 presidential election.
Winning at Diwali gifting: Ditch the mithai, bring on the bling
Diwali is celebrated with vibrant decorations, festive gatherings, and traditional rituals in India this year. Businesses are experiencing a significant increase in online sales leading up to the holidays. Families gather to enjoy rich cultural customs and unique gifting practices during this festive season. Various products, ranging from gold coins to luxury home items, are popular during this time.
Eyewear regulation Bill may come up in Parliament's winter session; MP Gopchade seeks national vision-care board
Rajya Sabha member Ajeet Gopchade has proposed a private member's Bill for regulating eyewear products and vision-care services. He has urged the Prime Minister to direct the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to assess creating a National Optical/Vision Care Board. The proposal aims to ensure consumer protection and quality standards in vision-care. The existing Medical Devices Rules, 2017, may need strengthening for better oversight.
China confirms discussions are underway on a historic Xi-Trump-Putin meeting
Beijing has officially indicated it is coordinating a meeting between the leaders of China, the U.S., and Russia. This historic gathering may take place in Shenzhen later this month during a regional summit. Experts suggest the discussions will likely be superficial and primarily focused on optics rather than substantive issues. Both the U.S. and China are dealing with ongoing trade tensions and disagreements over multiple topics.
Not Milan nor Paris fashion week, Vasai show where models replaced ramp with sabji mandi and expensive accessories with radishes, carrots, coriander goes viral
A vegetable market in Vasai, Maharashtra, turned into an unconventional fashion runway as models walked past shoppers carrying radishes, coriander and other everyday items as accessories. Conceptualised by fashion mentor Sahil Singh, Vision Vogue Fashion Week gave the traditional fashion show a quirky, distinctly desi makeover.
Big-budget Ramayana set for a slow start at theatres
Advance ticket sales for The Ramayana: Part 1 have not met the expectations of trade analysts and distributors. Data shows that ticket sales are underwhelming despite the film's grand scale and marquee cast. Concerns have been raised about the film's music not resonating with audiences and the quality of its VFX. Experts have highlighted inflated advance booking figures, suggesting lower actual sales than reported.
Godzilla Minus Zero 2026 Twitter reviews: 5 tweets to read before watching the Japanese kaiju epic
Godzilla Minus Zero has drawn enthusiastic reactions online, with viewers praising its emotional storytelling, kaiju action and IMAX experience. Some have called it one of the greatest sequels ever, while one audience reportedly gave the cast and crew a five-minute standing ovation. The film features Godzilla facing a new threat from King Ghidorah.
London once built a pedestrian bridge that twisted like a corkscrew to clear the canal for boats; the unusual crossing was later removed in 2013
The Helix Bridge, a marvel of engineering with its twisting and retracting design, became an iconic visual landmark connecting Paddington Basin. However, the intricate mechanisms posed operational issues, leading to its decommissioning by 2013. As urban demands evolved, authorities opted for a more straightforward pedestrian structure, shedding light on the persistent obstacles faced by innovative designs in today's urban landscapes.
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