THE CLIFF NEWS

Naseeruddin Shah, a name synonymous with brilliance in acting, has an uncanny ability to embody every character with remarkable depth and subtlety. His voice, too, has become an instrument of storytelling, making even the most ordinary of dialogues unforgettable. Whether as D.K. Malhotra in Masoom, Bhola in Manthan, or the Common Man in A Wednesday!, his characters resonate with authenticity, making them stand the test of time. In a recent interview, Shah reflected on his journey, acknowledging the pivotal role Shyam Benegal played in shaping his career. He credited Benegal for casting him in revolutionary films like Manthan, Bhumika, and Junoon when no one else was willing to take a chance on him. Shah expressed deep affection for Benegal, calling him a guiding force in his life. Shah’s reverence for his craft extends beyond Bollywood. When he visited Kerala for the Kerala Literature Festival, he spoke of the state’s unique love for literature and the arts. He expressed admiration for the educated and theatre-savvy populace, admiring their intellectual engagement with the arts. Interestingly, Shah also shared his experience working in Malayalam cinema. Though his appearance in Ponthan Mada with T.V. Chandran was challenging, especially as he grappled with the language, Shah fondly remembered working with Malayalam cinema icons like Mammootty. He praised Mammootty’s approach to stardom, emphasizing that despite his fame, he didn’t let it overshadow his craft. Shah observed that both Mammootty and Mohanlal, two of Malayalam cinema’s biggest stars, have been instrumental in supporting parallel cinema, allowing newcomers to flourish in an environment of artistic collaboration. He wished Hindi cinema stars would follow suit and extend their reach beyond self-propagation, participating in meaningful and smaller-budget films that deserve a wider audience. Shah’s reflections offer a glimpse into the thought process of an actor who has transcended the limits of commercial cinema to become an icon of meaningful storytelling. His unwavering commitment to his craft continues to inspire countless filmmakers and actors alike.

Bollywood fans have reason to rejoice as actor Sanjay Dutt might collaborate with filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar for Vaastav 2, a potential sequel to the iconic 1999 gangster drama Vaastav. Although an official announcement is pending, reports suggest that discussions are underway to transform the film into a franchise 26 years after its release. According to Pinkvilla, Manjrekar is in the process of developing the screenplay, which will be narrated to Sanjay Dutt once finalized. A source close to the project revealed that Vaastav 2 is envisioned as a franchise film rather than a direct continuation of the original. The source explained, “Mahesh has cracked an idea that aligns with the Vaastav universe and has shared it with Sanjay Dutt, who is excited to step into Raghu’s shoes again. While the idea is ready, Mahesh is currently focused on translating it into a full-fledged screenplay. Once complete, Sanju is eager to hear the entire narrative.” Interestingly, the film is expected to be a two-hero gangster drama, with a younger actor joining Dutt in the lead. The source added, “The makers aim to cast a big name from the younger generation alongside Sanjay Dutt. It’s a parallel-lead subject, and casting for the second hero will begin once the script is locked.” Produced by Subhash Kale, Vaastav 2 is being envisioned as an out-and-out commercial entertainer featuring gripping dialogues, high-octane action, and engaging songs. The production team hopes to finalize casting by mid-2025, with shooting expected to commence by the year’s end. The original Vaastav was a massive hit and is remembered for its gritty portrayal of Mumbai’s underworld, Sanjay Dutt’s powerful performance as Raghu, and its iconic climax. Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of Dutt to the Vaastav universe, making this sequel one of the most exciting projects in development.

Renowned Kannada actor Kichcha Sudeep has respectfully declined the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor, which he was awarded for his performance in the 2019 film Pailwan. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Sudeep expressed gratitude for the recognition but reaffirmed his decision to stop accepting awards, a stance he adopted several years ago for personal reasons. Sudeep wrote, “While I feel privileged to have received the state award, I have chosen to stop receiving awards for several years now. This decision was made for various personal reasons, and I intend to uphold it.” In Pailwan, Sudeep portrayed an orphan-turned-wrestler and boxer, a role that earned him widespread acclaim. Acknowledging the jury for their selection, he remarked, “I am grateful to every jury member for selecting me, as this recognition is, in itself, my reward.” He also offered an apology to the jury and the state government, stating, “I sincerely apologise for any disappointment my decision may cause, and I trust you will respect my choice and support me on the path I have chosen.” Fans and well-wishers expressed their support for the actor’s decision on social media, praising his humility and principles. M Narasimhalu, president of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, refrained from commenting directly on Sudeep’s decision but noted that the awards are intended to appreciate and encourage artistes. This is not the first time Sudeep has declined a significant honor. In August 2024, he turned down an honorary doctorate from Tumakuru University, citing his belief that his contributions were personal and had not yet impacted society significantly. He highlighted that many unsung heroes working for societal betterment remain unrecognized. Sudeep’s gesture has once again underlined his grounded nature, earning him further admiration from fans and the film fraternity.

In a transformative moment, former Bollywood actor Mamta Kulkarni renounced her worldly life and embraced spiritual sainthood, assuming the name Mai Mamta Nand Giri. The Uttar Pradesh government announced that the 52-year-old took sanyas during the ongoing Maha Kumbh, joining the Kinnar Akhara, a prominent religious order established by the transgender community in 2018. Kulkarni’s spiritual journey included performing the ritual of Pind Daan on the banks of the River Ganga, symbolizing the renunciation of material ties and paying homage to her ancestors. Following this, she underwent her pattabhishek (consecration ceremony) amidst Vedic chanting in the Kinnar Akhara. Mamta Kulkarni was welcomed into the fold by prominent spiritual leaders, including Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi and Mahamandaleshwar Kaushalya Nand Giri. She also met Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad. Speaking at the ceremony, Mamta expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is my good fortune to witness and be part of this holy moment during Maha Kumbh.” She revealed that her spiritual journey began 23 years ago when she took deeksha (initiation) from Guru Shri Chaitanya Gagan Giri at Kupoli Ashram. With her induction into the Kinnar Akhara, Mamta Kulkarni now holds the revered title of mahamandaleshwar, joining the ranks of spiritual leaders dedicated to religious discourse and social upliftment. This marks a significant chapter in her life, moving from stardom in Bollywood to a path of spiritual devotion and service.

The iconic Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, has been granted Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration, enabling it to receive foreign donations. A government source clarified that the FCRA approval was sought by a court-appointed management committee overseeing the temple, not the temple’s hereditary priests. The Mathura district court formed the management committee, which includes nominees from the BJP-led State government, to manage the temple’s affairs. The temple, historically managed by Sevayat Goswami priests and descendants of Swami Haridas, is now locked in a legal battle with the State government over control of its substantial funds, valued at approximately ₹480 crore, along with gold and other valuables. According to sources, the FCRA application cited the temple’s regular inflow of foreign currency and its intention to accept donations from abroad. The Ministry of Home Affairs granted the registration on Friday under the “Religious (Hindu)” category after due scrutiny and court approval. The FCRA registration is a crucial step, as it is mandatory under the 2010 Act for NGOs and associations to legally receive foreign funds. The development highlights the ongoing tussle between traditional custodians and the State government over the temple’s management and finances, even as it opens avenues for international contributions to one of India’s most revered religious sites.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will unveil its indigenously developed short-range quasi-ballistic missile, Pralay, at this year’s Republic Day parade. Designed for the Army and Air Force, Pralay is India’s first ballistic missile dedicated to conventional strikes, adding a new dimension to the country’s missile arsenal. With a range of 400 kilometers, Pralay complements existing systems like the BrahMos and Prahar missiles, enabling standoff strikes across both the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The missile, which features a twin-launcher configuration mounted on a high-mobility Ashok Leyland 12×12 vehicle, has completed development trials and awaits induction following the Defence Ministry’s Acceptance of Necessity. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently flagged off the Battlefield Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’, which will also be showcased on Kartavya Path during the Republic Day celebrations. In 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of Pralay tactical ballistic missiles alongside Nirbhay long-range sub-sonic cruise missiles. With ranges of 400 km and 1,000 km, respectively, these systems enhance India’s long-range conventional strike capabilities. A derivative of Nirbhay, featuring an indigenous engine, was successfully flight-tested last year, with Army trials anticipated soon. Officials have also highlighted ongoing discussions about forming a dedicated rocket force under a tri-service framework to bring these advanced missile systems under a unified command. The inclusion of Pralay in the Republic Day parade underscores India’s growing focus on indigenous defense capabilities and its ability to deliver precision strikes with versatile warheads, further strengthening the country’s tactical and strategic deterrence.

The liquidity shortfall in India’s banking system has widened significantly, reaching a staggering ₹3.16 lakh crore as of Thursday, the highest level since at least 2010, according to Bloomberg Economics Index. Economists attribute the deficit to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) interventions in the forex market to stabilize the rupee. The central bank’s dollar sales to protect the rupee have absorbed substantial rupee liquidity, compounding the shortfall. The rupee has faced mounting pressure, particularly since the November US Presidential elections, as markets anticipate inflationary trade policies under Donald Trump, reducing the likelihood of interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve. Additional stress has arisen from foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows due to expensive valuations, weak corporate results, and a slowing domestic economy. RBI’s Measures to Address the Deficit In response to the liquidity crunch, economists have called for durable liquidity infusions. The RBI has announced daily variable rate repo (VRR) auctions to inject cash into the system. Starting January 15, these auctions are conducted on all working days, with reversals scheduled for the next working day. On Friday, the RBI announced a ₹2 lakh crore VRR auction for Monday. The central bank also conducted a 14-day VRR auction, receiving bids worth ₹1.63 lakh crore against a notified amount of ₹1.75 lakh crore. The daily VRR auction saw even higher demand, with bids totaling ₹2.22 lakh crore for a notified ₹2 lakh crore. Economists emphasize the importance of sustained liquidity measures to address the widening gap and support the banking system amid ongoing economic pressures.

Late Friday night, terrorists opened fire on an Army camp in Bhatodi village, Billawar, Kathua district, ahead of Republic Day celebrations. The Army retaliated immediately, and while no casualties have been reported, the area has been cordoned off for an intensive search operation. The attack comes amidst heightened security in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure a smooth Republic Day on Sunday. According to IGP VK Birdi, comprehensive multi-layered security measures, including drone surveillance and spotters, have been deployed to safeguard the celebrations, particularly at Bakshi Stadium, the site of the main event in the Kashmir Valley. Birdi confirmed that security teams are closely monitoring suspicious activity and maintaining vigilance on surrendered militants. “We are following strict SOPs and ensuring any suspicious elements are monitored in accordance with the law,” he stated, encouraging citizens to participate in Republic Day festivities in large numbers. He also addressed questions regarding narcotics-related offenses, reassuring that investigations are ongoing, and repeat offenders will face legal consequences. V K Bhiduri, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, reiterated confidence in the arrangements while addressing media at the full dress rehearsal. The incident underscores the challenges of maintaining security in the region, but authorities remain committed to ensuring a safe and successful Republic Day celebration.

Mughal-Era Treasure Unearthed in MP’s Bhind District During Pipeline Digging The accidental clink of a labourer’s spade led to the astonishing discovery of a Mughal-era treasure in Gohad town, Bhind district, Madhya Pradesh, on Thursday. Workers digging for a water pipeline near Kaliyakanth temple in Ward 11 stumbled upon an earthen pot buried four feet underground. The sealed pot contained 113 silver coins, adorned with Urdu and Persian inscriptions. Intrigued by the find, the workers carefully unearthed the pot, which jingled with the unmistakable sound of silver. The coins were taken home by a local resident, Ramkumar Gurjar, but were later retrieved by authorities and handed over to the police. As news of the treasure spread, a crowd gathered at the site, prompting officials to halt the pipeline project temporarily. A JCB was brought in for further excavation, though the search was suspended at dusk. Gohad town, with its historic fort established in 1505 by the Jat Ranas, has been the site of numerous battles over the centuries. A team from the archaeological department in Gwalior is expected to arrive for a thorough investigation into the discovery. This remarkable find has sparked excitement and curiosity about what other treasures might still lie buried in the region’s historic grounds.

Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, has lost his final legal battle to prevent extradition to India in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. The US Supreme Court, on January 21, denied Rana’s petition of writ of certiorari after he previously lost in lower and federal courts. Rana is accused of being involved in the 26/11 attacks, which killed 166 people, including six Americans. He is linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the masterminds of the attack. This decision follows a recommendation by US Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar to reject Rana’s plea, while his counsel, Joshua L. Dratel, argued to accept the writ. With this ruling, Rana is now set to face trial in India for his alleged role in the attacks.