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Congress leader Tikaram Jully stirred controversy on Thursday after referring to Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit as a “second-grade star” who is “past her prime.” His remarks came during a discussion in the Rajasthan Assembly, where he questioned the benefits of hosting the recent IIFA event in the state. Criticizing the government’s expenditure, Jully stated, “In the name of IIFA, over ₹100 crore of public money was spent. If you saw the hoardings, it was only a promotion of IIFA and not of Rajasthan. What did Rajasthan get from IIFA? The stars who came for the event did not visit any tourist places in the state.” Further questioning the caliber of celebrities attending the event, he remarked, “Apart from Shah Rukh Khan, all others were second-grade stars. No other first-grade actor came.” When members objected, Jully continued, “Now, Madhuri Dixit is a second-grade star, her prime has gone. She was a star in the times of her movies like ‘Dil’ and ‘Beta’.” BJP Defends IIFA Event BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya defended the event, stressing its significance in boosting Rajasthan’s tourism and global exposure. “Rajasthan hosted an event of IIFA’s stature, which usually takes place in mega cities across the world,” he stated. Backlash Over Remarks Jully’s comments have sparked widespread criticism, with many slamming his remarks on Madhuri Dixit, a veteran actress celebrated for her contributions to Indian cinema. This incident follows another controversy involving Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed, who faced backlash for calling Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma “fat” and “the most unimpressive captain.” She later deleted the tweet and congratulated the team after India’s Champions Trophy victory. Jully’s remarks have now ignited a fresh political debate over the IIFA event and respect for Bollywood legends.

Remo D’Souza’s Be Happy is a dance-drama that tugs at the heartstrings but occasionally stumbles under the weight of melodrama. Set in the scenic hills of Ooty, the film revolves around Dhara (Inayat Verma), a spirited young girl who dreams of becoming a dancer, and her reserved, overprotective father Shiv Rastogi (Abhishek Bachchan). A Story of Dreams and Conflicts Dhara, wise beyond her years, has a contagious enthusiasm for life and dance, often entertaining her grandfather (Nassar) with her performances. She idolizes her dance teacher, Maggi (Nora Fatehi), and aspires to compete in India’s Superstar Dancer. However, her father Shiv, still mourning the loss of his wife, discourages her from chasing such an uncertain future. The film follows their emotional journey as Dhara breaks through Shiv’s stern exterior and challenges him to reconsider his beliefs. Performances: The Strength of the Film A Melodramatic Yet Feel-Good Narrative While the film starts off exploring father-daughter dynamics with humor and warmth, it shifts focus to the dance competition, sidelining deeper emotional conflicts. At times, Dhara’s wisdom feels exaggerated—like when she installs dating apps on her father’s phone, asking him to find her a “Mommy 2.0.” As expected from Remo D’Souza, dance takes center stage, with energetic performances and a celebratory Ganesha number providing the film’s emotional highs. However, the predictable storytelling and over-the-top melodrama may leave viewers wanting more substance. Final Verdict Be Happy is a heartwarming but formulaic dance drama, powered by Inayat Verma and Abhishek Bachchan’s chemistry. While it lacks emotional depth in some places, it remains a feel-good watch for dance lovers and family audiences. ⭐ Rating: 3/5

John Abraham’s latest film, The Diplomat, directed by Shivam Nair, was released in theatres on March 14, coinciding with the Holi festival. Inspired by real-life events, the film tells the story of diplomat JP Singh, played by Abraham, who orchestrates the rescue of an Indian woman, Uzma Ahmed (Sadia Khateeb), from Pakistan. Cast & Storyline Alongside John Abraham and Sadia Khateeb, the movie features an impressive ensemble, including Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, Amitoj Mann, Jagjeet Sandhu, Bhawani Muzamil, and Vidhatri Bandi. The political drama explores themes of diplomacy, international relations, and personal struggles against a high-stakes backdrop. Critics’ Reviews & Ratings Box Office Prediction Film trade analyst Sumit Kadel estimates that The Diplomat could earn between ₹1.50 to ₹2.50 crore nett on its opening day. John Abraham Meets External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Ahead of the film’s release, John Abraham met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, discussing diplomacy, football, and the Northeast. The minister shared their conversation on X (formerly Twitter), to which Abraham responded with appreciation. With positive reviews and an intriguing storyline, The Diplomat is shaping up to be an engaging watch for fans of political thrillers.

The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust (LKMMT), which operates Mumbai’s renowned Lilavati Hospital, has lodged complaints with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Bandra Police Station, alleging misappropriation of over ₹1,500 crore by former trustees and related individuals, as per a PTI report. A forensic audit of the hospital’s financial records revealed large-scale financial misconduct, leading to multiple FIRs against ex-trustees. Shockingly, the trust has also accused them of performing black magic on hospital premises, allegedly discovering urns containing human hair and skulls. According to Prashant Mehta, LKMMT’s Permanent Resident Trustee, three FIRs have been filed regarding forgery and fund misappropriation, which have been transferred to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). One case alleges ₹1,200 crore was siphoned through illicit dealings with third-party distributors for hospital procurements. Another case in Gujarat involves theft of valuables from a hospital facility. A separate FIR registered on December 30, 2023, accuses three former trustees of cheating ₹85 crore between 2002 and 2023, allegedly using forged documents to gain control and misusing funds for personal legal expenses. The trust has urged the ED to investigate these financial crimes under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that healthcare funds are used solely for patient welfare. The EOW has launched an investigation, and legal proceedings are ongoing.

On the joyous occasion of Holi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to the nation, highlighting the festival’s role in fostering unity and harmony. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi wished for new enthusiasm and energy in everyone’s life, emphasizing that Holi strengthens the bonds of brotherhood among countrymen. President Draupadi Murmu also conveyed her best wishes, calling Holi a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. She urged citizens to celebrate with a commitment to progress, prosperity, and happiness for all. “This festival of joy gives the message of unity, love, and harmony,” she stated, encouraging everyone to work towards a brighter future. Union Home Minister Amit Shah joined in extending his wishes, praying that Holi brings prosperity and affluence to people’s lives. He described the festival as one of joy, enthusiasm, and colours, wishing happiness for all. Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also took to X to greet the nation, wishing for new excitement, enthusiasm, and happiness in everyone’s life. As Holi celebrations spread joy across the country, leaders from different political spectrums united in their message of harmony and prosperity, reflecting the spirit of the festival.

Ghaziabad police have arrested a 66-year-old man, Krishna Shekhar Rana, who falsely identified himself as an envoy of Oman to avail police protocol services. The accused, a resident of Amar Colony in Delhi, was apprehended at UP Gate in Ghaziabad. At the time of his arrest, authorities recovered a black Mercedes, an identity card, and 46 visiting cards from his possession. According to Trans Hindon Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Nimish Patil, Rana has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigations revealed that he was formerly a professor of Zoology in Agra and owned Krishna College of Science and Technology in Agra, as well as a resort in Rajasthan. After retiring from his academic career, Rana worked as an Appraisal Authority in the Union Environment Ministry from 2015 to 2018, where his role involved granting environmental clearances. However, police have yet to receive a response from the Environment Ministry regarding his tenure. During interrogation, Rana claimed to be the vice chancellor of four universities. Further inquiries exposed his association with the NGO India GCC Trade Council, where he held the position of trade commissioner. However, he misused this title and falsely identified himself as the High Commissioner of Oman to gain government privileges and protocol services. The fraud was uncovered when he submitted a request to the Ghaziabad Police for protocol services. Upon verifying his documents, authorities found them suspicious, leading to a detailed inquiry. During questioning, Rana eventually confessed that he was not a High Commissioner but merely a trade commissioner. His primary motive, as stated by police, was to exploit government privileges and protocol services. Investigations are ongoing to determine if he had used his false identity in other locations or for further fraudulent activities.

Maharashtra Fisheries and Port Development Minister Nitish Rane has launched the ‘Malhar Certification’, an initiative aimed at establishing a network of mutton shops operated exclusively by Hindu community members. Announced on March 11, the certification seeks to ensure adulteration-free meat from Hindu-owned establishments across the state. Taking to social media platform X, Rane highlighted the significance of the initiative for the Hindu community. “Today we have taken a very important step for the Hindu community in Maharashtra,” he wrote. He further added, “Through Malhar Certification, we will have access to our rightful mutton shops, where both the shop and the seller will belong to the Hindu community. There will be no adulteration in the meat anywhere.” Rane also urged people to purchase meat only from Malhar-certified establishments, emphasizing that it would contribute to the financial empowerment of Hindu youth. “I appeal to you to use Malhar certification as much as possible and, in fact, avoid buying mutton from places that lack this certification. These efforts will definitely help the Hindu community’s youth become financially empowered,” his post continued. Rane Responds to Raj Thackeray’s Comments on River Ganga In a separate development, Rane reacted to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray’s remarks about the cleanliness of River Ganga on March 10. Thackeray had questioned the upkeep of the river despite its religious significance. Responding to the statement, Rane defended the ‘Namo Gange’ initiative under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Raj Sahib has incomplete information about the cleanliness drive—Namo Gange. No one has the right to insult the Hindu religion. I have never seen him question the sacrifice of goats during Bakr-Eid,” Rane remarked. Thackeray’s comments had pointed out that, despite calling rivers ‘mother,’ they were not being maintained properly. Rane’s response suggested that the MNS chief’s critique was selective and did not account for the efforts made under Modi’s leadership to clean the Ganga.

U.S. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard announced on Monday (March 10, 2025) that she will visit India as part of a multi-nation trip across the Indo-Pacific region. The tour aims to strengthen relationships, foster open communication, and advance President Donald Trump’s vision of peace, freedom, and prosperity. “I am #WheelsUp on a multi-nation trip to the Indo-Pacific, a region I know very well having grown up as a child of the Pacific. I’ll be going to Japan, Thailand, and India, with a brief stop in France en route back to DC,” Ms. Gabbard posted on X, along with a photograph of her boarding an aircraft. Her first stop will be in Honolulu, where she will engage with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) leaders and American troops involved in training exercises. The visit to India marks her first trip to the country since taking over as the eighth Senate-confirmed Director of National Intelligence and the first female combat veteran to hold the position in the second Trump administration. Ms. Gabbard had previously met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington, D.C., during his visit in February for a bilateral meeting with President Trump at the White House. She was the first U.S. official to meet Modi at Blair House on February 12, shortly after his arrival in the U.S. capital. “Met USA’s Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she’s always been a strong votary,” PM Modi had shared in a post on X. Gabbard’s visit to India is expected to further enhance strategic cooperation between the two nations, particularly in defense, intelligence sharing, and regional security within the Indo-Pacific.

Actress and social media influencer Avneet Kaur has once again found herself at the center of dating speculations. The buzz began after she attended the India vs Australia semi-final match at the Dubai International Stadium and shared a series of pictures from the event on Instagram. While her post was meant to showcase her excitement for the game, it quickly became a topic of discussion online, linking her to Indian cricketer Shubman Gill. Dating Rumours and Online Reactions Fans were quick to connect Avneet’s presence at the stadium with Shubman Gill, fueling speculation about a possible romantic relationship. The actress’s post, captioned, “INDIAAAA INDIAAAA. Are you watching the match?” gained significant traction, with many users questioning whether her attendance was just a coincidence or if she was there to support Gill. Adding to the speculation, a picture of Avneet posing with Shubman also surfaced online, further intensifying the rumors. While some fans were convinced that there was more to the story, others dismissed the claims. A user commented, “She is dating producer Raghav from a long time. Uski wajah se toh photo khichwa rahi hain,” suggesting that Avneet’s meeting with Gill happened through her rumored boyfriend, Raghav Sharma. Another fan wrote, “No absolutely. This is only fake and viral talk.” Despite the growing chatter, Avneet Kaur has never publicly addressed her dating life. Shubman Gill’s Past Linkups Shubman Gill has often been in the limelight for his alleged relationships. He was previously linked to Sara Tendulkar, the daughter of cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar. Though neither Sara nor Shubman ever confirmed their relationship, fans frequently teased the cricketer during matches with chants like, “Humari bhabhi kaisi ho, Sara bhabhi jaisi ho.” Avneet Kaur’s Career Avneet Kaur began her career in 2010 as a contestant on Dance India Dance Li’l Masters. She later appeared in television serials like Meri Maa, Ek Mutthi Aasmaan, and Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga, in which she played the role of Sultana Yasmine before leaving the show due to health issues. In the film industry, she made her debut with Mardaani in 2014 and has since starred in projects like Tiku Weds Sheru, Luv Ki Arrange Marriage, and Party Till I Die. Her upcoming film, Love in Vietnam, was announced at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and is based on the novel Madonna in a Fur Coat.

CM Seeks Report on Event as Religious Leaders Express Outrage A fashion show held in Gulmarg, Kashmir, during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan has ignited a major controversy, prompting Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to seek a report for “appropriate action.” The event, organized on March 9, 2025, to mark the 15th anniversary of designer label Shivan & Narresh, featured male and female models showcasing skiwear against the snow-covered slopes of Gulmarg. However, videos from the show went viral over the past two days, drawing widespread criticism from Kashmiri netizens and religious leaders. Religious Leaders Condemn Event Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, condemned the show as “outrageous” and unacceptable in a region known for its sufi traditions and religious values. “In the holy month of Ramzan, an obscene fashion show is organized in Gulmarg, causing shock and anger among people. How could this be tolerated in a valley deeply rooted in religious and spiritual traditions? Those responsible must be held accountable. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in Kashmir,” Mirwaiz said. CM Omar Abdullah Responds Reacting to the outrage, CM Abdullah acknowledged the concerns raised and assured action. “The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, especially during this holy month. My office has contacted local authorities, and I have asked for a report within 24 hours. Further action will be taken accordingly,” he stated. Political Leaders Call for Accountability Ruling National Conference (NC) MP Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi termed the event as a “cultural invasion” disguised as tourism promotion. He demanded immediate action against both the tourism department officials involved and the event organizers. J&K Peoples Conference chief Sajad Lone also criticized the timing of the event, calling it “eminently avoidable” during Ramzan. “I consider myself a liberal, but this was not the best time to host such an event,” Lone remarked. Growing Backlash and Expected Action With widespread criticism from both religious and political leaders, the incident has fueled a debate on cultural sensitivities in the region. The J&K government is expected to take further action following the inquiry report.