June 28, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

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Breaking News

Allu Arjun to Reportedly Star in Atlee’s Next Film ‘Parallel Universe’; Priyanka Chopra Jonas Eyed as Lead

After the monumental success of Pushpa 2: The Rule, Allu Arjun is reportedly gearing up for his next ambitious venture — a collaboration with blockbuster director Atlee. The upcoming film, tentatively titled Parallel Universe, is generating immense buzz in the industry, especially with rumors suggesting that Allu Arjun will play dual roles in this visually grand period drama centered around reincarnation. Adding to the excitement, reports claim that global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is being considered for the female lead. If confirmed, this would mark her first-ever collaboration with both Allu Arjun and Atlee. Priyanka, who is currently working on SS Rajamouli’s jungle adventure SSMB29 with Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is expected to bring a strong pan-Indian and international appeal to the project. Her involvement would also signify her return to Indian cinema after a four-year hiatus. Earlier rumors of the film being a two-hero project were put to rest after actor Salman Khan clarified that his collaboration with Atlee has been shelved for now. Now, the makers are believed to be focusing solely on Allu Arjun in a dual avatar. While there has been no official announcement yet, the pre-production of the film is expected to commence in April 2025. Known for directing pan-Indian hits like Jawan, Atlee’s upcoming venture is rumored to be mounted on a massive budget with rich visuals and emotional depth, aligning with his signature style of storytelling. Meanwhile, Allu Arjun is also said to be reuniting with Trivikram Srinivas for their fourth film together, which is speculated to be a mythological drama where he could be seen portraying Lord Karthikeya. With Pushpa 2 already cementing his position as a pan-India star, and multiple high-profile collaborations on the horizon, Allu Arjun is clearly entering a career-defining phase in Indian cinema.

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Editor03 mins

Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 Receives Presidential Assent Amid Controversy and Legal Challenge

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, officially received the assent of the President on April 5, 2025, and has now been published for general information, according to a government notification reported by PTI. The legislation, which has stirred significant political and legal debate, comes into force just days after being passed by both Houses of Parliament following extended and heated discussions. The bill was cleared by the Lok Sabha in the early hours of Thursday, and subsequently by the Rajya Sabha on Friday after a marathon 17-hour session. In addition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Upper House also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024—another contentious piece of legislation—marking an intense week in Parliament. Legal challenges have already emerged, with Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi filing separate petitions in the Supreme Court questioning the constitutional validity of the Act. They argue that the legislation undermines minority rights and goes against constitutional principles. Despite the opposition’s strong protests, the central government has maintained that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill does not infringe upon the rights of any community. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill in both Houses, stated during the debates that the amendments were aimed at bringing transparency and accountability to the administration of waqf properties. PM Modi Hails the Passage as a ‘Watershed Moment’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill as a landmark development. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he described it as a “watershed moment” in India’s pursuit of socio-economic justice and inclusive growth. “The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity,” the Prime Minister stated. Modi also extended his appreciation to members of Parliament and citizens who contributed inputs to the Joint Parliamentary Committee that reviewed the bill. The development is expected to have far-reaching implications, both politically and socially, as debates continue around the management of religious endowments and the balancing of community rights with state oversight. 4o

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Editor04 mins

PM Modi to Inaugurate Key Infrastructure Projects in Tamil Nadu on Ram Navami

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Tamil Nadu on Sunday, April 6, to inaugurate a series of significant infrastructure projects, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. The visit marks the launch of several initiatives aimed at improving connectivity and economic development in the region. Around 12 noon, PM Modi will inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge — India’s first vertical lift sea bridge. Built at a cost of over ₹700 crore, the 2.08 km long structure is designed for dual rail tracks to meet future transportation demands. From the road bridge, he will also flag off a new Rameswaram–Tambaram (Chennai) train service and a ship, while witnessing the operation of the vertical lift mechanism. At approximately 12:45 PM, the Prime Minister will visit the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple, where he will perform darshan and pooja. The temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, especially significant on the day of Ram Navami, which commemorates the birth of Lord Rama and marks the culmination of Chaitra Navratri. By 1:30 PM, PM Modi will dedicate and lay the foundation stone for multiple road and rail projects worth over ₹8,300 crore in Rameswaram. These include the foundation stone for four-laning of the 28 km long Walajapet–Ranipet section of NH-40, the 4-laned 29 km long Viluppuram–Puducherry section of NH-332, the 57 km long Poondiyankuppam–Sattanathapuram stretch of NH-32, and the 48 km long Cholapuram–Thanjavur section of NH-36. According to the government, these highway projects will enhance connectivity to key pilgrimage centres and tourist destinations, reduce travel distances, and provide quicker access to medical colleges, hospitals, and ports. The projects are also expected to support local agriculture, leather, and small-scale industries by improving market access and boosting economic activity. Following the inaugurations, the Prime Minister is scheduled to address a public gathering in Rameswaram. PM Modi to Visit Haryana on April 14 In another significant engagement, Prime Minister Modi will visit Haryana on April 14. As announced by Haryana BJP President Mohan Lal Badoli, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Hisar Airport and lay the foundation stone for a new terminal building. These developments are expected to significantly enhance the airport’s infrastructure and connectivity, contributing to the state’s growth.

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Editor04 mins

DIY Pi Pie Recipe

Pi Pie Recipe: A Fun and Delicious Experiment Materials Used: Crust: Filling: Step 1: Planning For this pie, I decided to make a mini version to avoid using up all the ingredients if it didn’t turn out well. I had to convert measurements from different recipes, ensuring everything was measured in units that resulted in numbers close to 3.14. Step 2: Preparing the Crust I began by measuring the ingredients for the crust. To get precise measurements, I used a scale, which helped ensure accuracy in the quantities I used. Step 3: Mixing the Crust Ingredients Once the ingredients were measured, I combined them into a dough. I hand-kneaded the mixture on a cutting board until it had a nice doughy consistency. Step 4: Rolling Out the Dough Next, I rolled the dough out on a cutting board using a rolling pin to shape it for the pie crust. Step 5: Baking the Crust After shaping the dough, I placed it in the oven set to 350°F and baked it for 8 minutes. This step was essential to ensure the crust was fully baked and crispy. Step 6: Preparing the Filling While the crust was baking, I measured and mixed all the filling ingredients in a large bowl. Step 7: Assembling the Pie Once the crust was done baking, I added the prepared filling. I had extra dough left over, so I decided to create a woven design for the top crust. After assembling the pie, I placed it back in the oven for 19 minutes until the crust edges turned golden brown. Step 8: The Final Touch Once the pie was done baking, the smell was fantastic, and it came out much better than I expected! It held together well in the oven, which was a pleasant surprise. Step 9: Enjoy! When I cut the pie, cinnamon-flavored juice spilled out, but it still tasted delicious. Although the filling might have been a bit too sweet and the crust had too much salt, the flavors balanced out nicely. While I wouldn’t recommend using only 3.14 measurements for every pie, this experiment turned out to be a fun and tasty experience.

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Editor04 mins

Salman Khan’s Sikandar Crosses ₹170 Crore at Global Box Office in Five Days

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s Eid release Sikandar is making waves at the global box office. The action-packed entertainer, directed by A.R. Murugadoss, has amassed an impressive ₹169.78 crore worldwide in just five days of its theatrical run, according to the makers. Production house Nadiadwala Grandson took to X (formerly Twitter) to thank fans, writing:“You’ve filled cinemas and our hearts. Thank you for making #Sikandar so special.”The message was shared alongside a new poster of the film celebrating its box office numbers. Sikandar had a massive start, earning ₹54.72 crore globally on its opening day, March 30. Despite experiencing a dip in daily earnings, the film continues to draw audiences. On Day 5, it collected ₹8.28 crore gross in India and ₹3 crore overseas, contributing to its strong cumulative figure. Sikandar’s Story and Cast In the film, Salman Khan plays Sanjay, a vigilante also known as “Rajkot ka Raja Saab.” He arrives in Mumbai on a mission to take down a corrupt political system, facing off against a politician portrayed by veteran actor Sathyaraj. Along the way, he also finds love—Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife. The ensemble cast also includes Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Prateik Babbar, Anjini Dhawan, and Jatin Sarna, adding strength to the narrative. Online Leak Controversy While the film is performing well in cinemas, it has not been without controversy. The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) recently condemned the unauthorized online leak of Sikandar before its theatrical release—a move that could have impacted its initial footfall. Backed by Sajid Nadiadwala, Sikandar is expected to continue its strong box office run, with a Netflix premiere lined up after its theatrical journey.

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Editor03 mins

Allu Arjun and Atlee Gear Up for a Big-Budget Film: Announcement Expected Soon

After the record-breaking success of Pushpa 2: The Rule, all eyes are on Allu Arjun’s next cinematic move—and it’s a big one. The stylish star is set to collaborate with blockbuster director Atlee, who recently delivered the mammoth hit Jawan with Shah Rukh Khan. On April 4, Allu Arjun was spotted at the Chennai airport, reportedly heading to a key meeting with director Atlee and Sun Pictures—the production house backing this upcoming entertainer. A video of the actor from the Hyderabad airport has gone viral, fueling anticipation for what’s being described as a high-octane, big-budget spectacle. According to insider reports, the untitled film will be solely produced by Sun Pictures. The official announcement is expected soon, with sources hinting that a promotional video might be shot as a formal reveal. Project Atlee-Salman Khan on Hold Interestingly, Atlee was earlier slated to collaborate with Salman Khan on a massive action film. However, the project has reportedly been postponed due to budgetary concerns. Speaking in a group interview before the release of Sikandar, Salman himself mentioned that Atlee’s film was grand in scale but currently shelved due to financial constraints. Two Titans of Indian Cinema Unite This upcoming Allu Arjun–Atlee film is already generating major buzz, especially given both artists’ recent box office dominance. Atlee’s Jawan grossed over ₹1,100 crore worldwide, while Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 soared to a phenomenal ₹1,800 crore in lifetime earnings. With two titans coming together, expectations are sky-high. The official title, promo, and cast details are expected to drop soon—setting the stage for another pan-India blockbuster in the making.

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Editor03 mins

Salman Khan Collaborates with V Vijayendra Prasad for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2

Bajrangi Bhaijaan remains one of Salman Khan’s most iconic and beloved films. The 2015 Kabir Khan directorial saw Salman portraying the heartfelt role of Pawan Kumar Chaturvedi—a devotee of Lord Hanuman who embarks on a mission to reunite a mute Pakistani girl with her family. The film was both a critical and commercial blockbuster, praised for its emotional depth and cross-border message of love and humanity. In recent developments, a sequel to the film may be on the horizon. According to a report by Pinkvilla, Salman Khan recently met acclaimed screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad, who also penned the original Bajrangi Bhaijaan. The meeting reportedly led to the development of an idea for a potential sequel. A source told the portal, “Salman Khan has met V Vijayendra Prasad a couple of days back. They have come up with an idea and discussions are on that could be for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. Moreover, there is a chance of possible collaboration between V Vijayendra Prasad and director Kabir Khan. The trio is coming together. However, nothing has been finalized yet.” The source further added that the aim is to bring the sequel to life with the same honesty and emotional weight that made the original a modern classic. If all goes well, the team behind the first installment—Salman, Kabir Khan, and Vijayendra Prasad—could reunite to deliver another heartfelt cinematic experience. For those unfamiliar, V Vijayendra Prasad is one of Indian cinema’s most respected screenwriters, known for writing blockbusters like RRR, Magadheera, and of course, Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Salman Khan’s Current Projects On the professional front, Salman Khan was recently seen in Sikandar, directed by A. R. Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. Released on March 30, 2025, just ahead of Eid, the film opened to a mix of audience reactions and critical reviews. Co-starring Rashmika Mandanna, Prateik Smita Patil, Sharman Joshi, and Sathyaraj, the film is set to stream on Netflix following its theatrical run. With Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 now entering the early stages of development, fans eagerly await official confirmation and further updates about what could be another emotionally powerful journey.

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Editor03 mins

Crisis of Credibility: Will Bengal’s SSC Scandal Be Mamata Banerjee’s Waterloo?

“The fate of a battle is the result of a moment, of a thought,” Napoleon Bonaparte once reflected on his fateful defeat at Waterloo. A single moment, a single misstep, can unravel the mightiest regimes. Is West Bengal, under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, now facing such a decisive moment? On April 5, the Supreme Court of India, led by the Chief Justice, upheld a landmark Calcutta High Court ruling that invalidated the appointments of 25,752 teachers who cleared the School Service Commission (SSC) exam in 2016. The verdict rocked the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government to its core—already reeling from public outrage over the RG Kar Medical College protests following the rape and murder of an intern doctor. A Test of Governance—and Honesty For Mamata Banerjee, who has long projected herself as the torchbearer of honesty and people-centric governance, this is more than just a legal setback. It’s a severe blow to the legitimacy of her administration. In a 32-minute address, Banerjee struck a defiant tone, blaming the BJP and CPM for the tainted recruitment process, and urging people to focus on the Supreme Court’s directive to hold fresh recruitment within three months. She expressed confidence that the ‘autonomous’ SSC would manage this transparently. But her optimism is not widely shared—especially by those with insider knowledge of the SSC. SSC Insider Speaks Out Chittaranjan Mondal, former chairman of the SSC, delivered a blistering critique of the process. Speaking to TOI Online, he described the situation as a “tragedy” and squarely blamed the SSC leadership at the time—implying they either succumbed to political pressure or were grossly negligent. Mondal pointed to the state government’s failure to submit OMR answer sheets, which created doubts about candidate legitimacy. “If the SSC is really autonomous,” he questioned, “why did the Commission stop issuing duplicate OMRs to candidates?” He expressed deep skepticism about the state’s excuses and warned that the upcoming recruitment would be under intense public and judicial scrutiny. “The buck stops with the political executive,” Mondal asserted, holding the TMC government ultimately accountable for the fiasco. Political Fallout on the Horizon? With assembly elections due in 2026, this scandal could have serious political ramifications. Public trust in government hiring is now severely shaken. The TMC’s credibility—particularly on education and employment—is under the scanner, and opposition parties are sure to weaponize this verdict in the months ahead. “Why the silence on accountability?” asked a youth activist at a solidarity march in Kolkata. “Students and job-seekers have been cheated—not just by a flawed system, but by a failed promise of fairness.” What’s Next? The Supreme Court has ordered fresh recruitment within three months, placing immense pressure on the SSC to act swiftly and transparently. Any further mistakes could deepen the crisis—not just institutionally, but politically. As Mamata Banerjee faces mounting pressure—from students, courts, and political rivals—this moment may well define the course of her leadership. Will it be a turning point of redemption, or a repeat of Waterloo?

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Editor05 mins

U.S. Tariffs Threaten to Slow India’s Economic Growth; Analysts Expect Deeper RBI Rate Cuts

India’s economic growth may take a hit of 20-40 basis points (bps) in the current financial year following the imposition of new 26% U.S. tariffs, potentially prompting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut interest rates more aggressively than previously expected, analysts said. The tariff decision, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, is seen as a major challenge to India’s growth outlook, putting pressure on the RBI’s growth projection of 6.7% and the government’s Economic Survey forecast of 6.3%-6.8% for FY 2025-26. Growth Forecasts Revised Following the tariff move: The Indian economy already slowed to an estimated 6.5% in FY24, the lowest in four years, due to high inflation, weaker urban demand, and tighter RBI credit norms. Rate Cuts Now Expected to Deepen With inflation projected at 4.2% — within the RBI’s comfort zone — and downside risks to growth mounting, economists now anticipate: Previously, analysts had forecast only one more rate cut to 5.75% by August before a pause. “This would be an appropriate risk minimization strategy,” said Citi’s India Chief Economist Samiran Chakraborty, emphasizing the lower upside risk to inflation relative to growth. The RBI, under new Governor Sanjay Malhotra, has already taken steps to ease liquidity and delay stricter lending norms, providing some relief to credit growth. Policy Space and Government Support The MPC’s February commentary suggested there is space to support growth while staying aligned with inflation goals. Meanwhile, the government has: “India sees no need for an economy-wide stimulus at this stage,” a government source told Reuters. Broader Implications Vivek Kumar of QuantEco Research noted the shifting global trade landscape could push policymakers worldwide to focus on reviving domestic consumption. For India, this could mean interest rate easing and a weaker rupee in the months ahead.

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Editor04 mins

Rajinikanth’s Coolie to Clash with Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR’s War 2 This Independence Day

The box office is gearing up for a high-voltage showdown this Independence Day as two massive films—Rajinikanth’s Coolie and Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer War 2—are set to release around the same time. Rajinikanth’s Coolie Locks August 14 Release On Friday, Sun Pictures officially announced the release date of Coolie, confirming that the Tamil action drama will hit theatres worldwide on August 14, 2025. The announcement came with a striking new poster featuring Rajinikanth in a fiery avatar, accompanied by the caption:“Sound-ah yethu! Deva Varraaru. #Coolie worldwide from August 14th.” The film, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, wrapped up shooting last month. Lokesh, known for his stylish and intense storytelling, shared behind-the-scenes glimpses on social media, building excitement around the project. All About Coolie Coolie boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast, including Nagarjuna, Pooja Hegde, Soubin Shahir, and Shruti Haasan. Notably, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is set to make a special appearance in the film, adding to its pan-Indian appeal. Music is by Anirudh Ravichander, who previously composed the chart-topping soundtrack for Jailer (2023), another Rajinikanth blockbuster. Veteran actor Sathyaraj also plays a key role. This marks Lokesh Kanagaraj’s seventh directorial venture, following the success of Kaithi, Vikram, and Leo, which form the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). However, it’s still unclear whether Coolie will be part of the same universe. Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR’s War 2 Set for Independence Day Weekend While Yash Raj Films has yet to officially announce the date, War 2—directed by Ayan Mukerji and starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani—is widely expected to release around August 15, setting up a mega box office clash. A sequel to the 2019 hit War, the upcoming installment continues the story of Major Kabir Dhaliwal (played by Hrithik) and is the sixth film in the YRF Spy Universe after Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3. The Spy Universe Expands Yash Raj Films is heavily investing in its interconnected spy franchise with upcoming titles like Pathaan 2, Tiger vs Pathaan, and Alpha already in development. Box Office Battle Royale With Coolie and War 2 eyeing the same release window, Independence Day 2025 promises a thunderous clash between two cinematic giants. While Coolie brings together South Indian legends with a splash of Bollywood star power, War 2 rides on the massive success of the YRF Spy Universe. Fans and trade analysts alike are eagerly awaiting official confirmation from YRF and the first teasers of both films to see how this blockbuster battle unfolds.

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Editor04 mins
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