June 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Tag: LatestNews

Shanaya Kapoor to Play Double Role in Student of the Year 3, Filming Begins April 20

Shanaya Kapoor, daughter of Sanjay and Maheep Kapoor, is all set to headline Student of the Year 3, the next installment of Karan Johar’s iconic youth franchise. But this time, there’s a twist—SOTY 3 will be a six-episode web series instead of a theatrical release, and Shanaya will be seen in a double role, a first for the franchise. Directed by debutant Reema Maya—who garnered acclaim for her 2023 short film Nocturnal Burger—the series will begin filming in Mumbai on April 20, 2025, and is scheduled to wrap within just over 30 days. The fast-paced shoot reflects Maya’s dynamic storytelling style, as the series aims to bring a fresh, edgy take to the SOTY universe. The Student of the Year brand, previously known for launching major Bollywood stars like Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, Ananya Panday, and Tara Sutaria, is now transitioning to OTT, with SOTY 3 set to stream on JioHotstar. According to a report in Mid-Day, the project had been in development for the past six years. A source revealed, “Finally, Karan has given the green signal and the unit plans to begin filming it from April 20.” Another insider confirmed Shanaya’s dual role, which marks a bold new direction for the series. Shanaya Kapoor’s Busy 2025–2026 Line-up While SOTY 3 will mark Shanaya’s streaming debut, it will be her fourth project overall. Her debut film, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama directed by Santosh Singh, has wrapped and is targeting a theatrical release soon. She also stars opposite Adarsh Gourav in the survival thriller Tu Yaa Main, which is slated for a Valentine’s Day 2026 release. Additionally, she’s working on an untitled project with Abhay Verma. With a mix of romance, thrill, and now a double role in a cult franchise, Shanaya Kapoor is clearly being positioned as one of the most exciting new faces in the industry.

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Editor03 mins

KGF: Chapter 2 Turns 3 – Hombale Films Reaffirms KGF: Chapter 3 is Coming

April 14 marks the third anniversary of KGF: Chapter 2, the record-shattering Kannada blockbuster that redefined Indian cinema’s pan-India appeal. Directed by Prashanth Neel and headlined by superstar Yash, the action-packed sequel was released on this day in 2022 and went on to become the highest-grossing Kannada film of all time, earning over ₹1200 crores globally. The film, produced by Hombale Films, picked up from the events of KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) and built upon the saga of Rocky Bhai in a grander, more explosive fashion. It not only captivated Kannada audiences but also struck gold across India and overseas, cementing Yash as a national icon and Prashanth Neel as a visionary director. Fans were thrilled when the film ended with a teaser for KGF: Chapter 3, hinting that the saga of KGF was far from over. Over the past three years, the makers have consistently assured audiences that the third installment is on the way, though no official production timeline has been finalized. To commemorate the third anniversary, Hombale Films released a special celebratory video on Monday. Clocking in at over two minutes, the video showcases iconic moments from KGF: Chapter 2 and ends with a reaffirmation—KGF: Chapter 3 is indeed coming soon. However, fans will need to wait a while longer. Both Yash and Prashanth Neel are currently committed to other major projects. Yash is busy with Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups and Ramayana, while Neel is directing the Jr. NTR-led Dragon. All three films are scheduled for release in 2026. Given their packed schedules, KGF: Chapter 3 is expected to begin production only by late 2026 or early 2027. Despite the delay, the excitement remains sky-high, and the KGF universe continues to inspire hope for yet another cinematic spectacle.

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Editor03 mins

Katy Perry Set to Soar to the Edge of Space with All-Female Crew on Blue Origin Flight

Pop superstar Katy Perry will soon become one of the most famous celebrities to travel to the edge of space. The “Firework” and “California Gurls” singer is set to lift off on Monday aboard a Blue Origin spacecraft, part of a historic all-female mission organized by Jeff Bezos’ space company. The sub-orbital flight will launch from Blue Origin’s West Texas site at approximately 8:30 am local time (1330 GMT). Perry will be joined by five other women, including Bezos’ fiancée and pilot Lauren Sanchez, TV host Gayle King, film producer Kerianne Flynn, former NASA engineer Aisha Bowe, and activist Amanda Nguyen. This marks the first all-female space crew since Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova’s solo mission in 1963. The mission will also be Blue Origin’s 11th crewed sub-orbital flight aboard its New Shepard rocket. The journey will last around 10 minutes and take passengers more than 100 kilometers (over 60 miles) above Earth, crossing the Karman line—the internationally recognized boundary of space. During the flight, the capsule will separate from the booster rocket and offer a brief period of weightlessness, allowing the passengers to float freely before descending gently under parachutes, aided by retro rockets. Katy Perry shared with Elle magazine that her motivation for the trip is her daughter, Daisy, whom she shares with actor Orlando Bloom. “I’m doing this for my daughter… to inspire her to never have limits on her dreams,” Perry said. “I’m just so excited to see the inspiration through her eyes… when she sees that rocket go, and she goes back to school the next day and says, ‘Mom went to space.’” Blue Origin, which has already flown 52 people on similar missions—including “Star Trek” actor William Shatner—has not disclosed the price of these space tourism trips. The company is using such high-profile missions to maintain public interest and compete with rivals like Virgin Galactic and SpaceX. While Virgin Galactic offers similar sub-orbital experiences, Blue Origin aims to advance toward orbital missions, bolstered by the successful unmanned launch of its powerful New Glenn rocket earlier this year.

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Editor03 mins

Sourav Ganguly Reappointed as Chairperson of ICC Men’s Cricket Committee

In a significant move ahead of a crucial international cricketing season, the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced the reappointment of Sourav Ganguly as chairperson of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee. Ganguly, who previously captained India from 2000 to 2005, has been serving in this role since 2021, following the tenure of Anil Kumble. At 52 years old, Ganguly brings a wealth of cricketing and administrative experience to the position. His former teammate and current National Cricket Academy head, VVS Laxman, has also been appointed as a panel member, reinforcing India’s strong presence in the sport’s global governance. Other Members of the Men’s Committee: Changes in Women’s Cricket Committee: The ICC also restructured the Women’s Cricket Committee, appointing: These appointments are seen as part of the ICC’s efforts to bolster the governance and evolution of cricket across both men’s and women’s formats by bringing in diverse, contemporary, and experienced voices from around the world.

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Editor02 mins

India Eyes Interim Trade Deal with US Amid Global Scramble to Avoid Tariffs

As over 75 countries rush to secure trade deals with the United States during its 90-day pause window to avoid reciprocal tariffs, India is strategically positioning itself to bridge the trade gap with Washington by replacing third-country imports, a senior Indian government official has confirmed. Key Points: India’s Strategic Leverage The official noted that while countries like Vietnam may benefit from concessions under separate US deals, India is uniquely positioned due to: “Replacing imports from other countries with US goods is not a difficult proposition. That could be one of the outcomes of the BTA,” the official emphasized. The US has flagged tariffs and trade deficits in its talks with India, while raising subsidies and currency manipulation concerns with other nations. India believes it can narrow the deficit while still securing preferential access to US markets. Goyal: “No Negotiation Under Pressure” Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal firmly stated on Friday: “India will not negotiate with a gun to its head… Our national interest remains paramount.” Goyal’s stance reinforces India’s intention to prioritize substance over speed, despite pressure to meet the 90-day deadline. Positive Outlook from Washington The senior official also highlighted: What’s Next? In the coming weeks:

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Editor04 mins

Pastor John Jebaraj Arrested for Sexual Assault of Minors; Second High-Profile Pastor Case in Weeks

In a disturbing development from Tamil Nadu, Pastor John Jebaraj of Kings Generation Church in Coimbatore has been arrested for the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls. The 37-year-old pastor, known for his presence on social media — particularly for his Christian devotional music with nearly 2 lakh Instagram followers — was apprehended on Saturday evening in Munnar, Kerala, by the Coimbatore City Police, after evading arrest for several months. The Case The incident dates back to May 2023, when the pastor allegedly assaulted the girls during a party at his home in Coimbatore. The case came to light after one of the survivors recently confided in a family member, prompting them to file a formal complaint at the Central All Women Police Station, Coimbatore. Jebaraj has been booked under the POCSO Act: Police officials have confirmed that further investigations are underway, including inquiries into whether other minors may have been harmed. Second Major Case Involving a Pastor This arrest follows another major case earlier this month involving self-styled pastor Bajinder Singh, who was convicted by a Mohali court for rape and sexual harassment in a 2018 case. The court delivered a strong verdict, rejecting Singh’s plea for leniency, and noted: “A religious leader holds a sacred responsibility and cannot betray the faith of devotees.” Singh, known for his controversial claims of “miracle healing” and running mega congregations, heads the Church of Glory and Wisdom in Jalandhar and Mohali, with claimed branches abroad. He became a preacher in 2012. Growing Scrutiny on Religious Figures These back-to-back cases have cast a spotlight on the accountability of self-proclaimed religious leaders, especially those with large online followings and direct access to young and vulnerable individuals. Activists and legal experts are calling for stricter background checks and oversight in faith-based organizations, particularly those involved in youth outreach. As the investigations continue, more survivors are being encouraged to come forward, and there is renewed pressure on authorities to crack down on abuse hiding behind spiritual authority.

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Editor03 mins

Pawan Kalyan’s Son Injured in Singapore School Fire, Family Offers Prayers at Tirumala Post-Recovery

Actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan‘s son, Mark Shankar Pavanovich, was among several children injured in a tragic school fire in Singapore last week. The incident occurred on April 8 at a shophouse on River Valley Road, where a fire broke out, prompting a swift response from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Eight-year-old Mark sustained injuries to his hands and legs, along with respiratory distress due to smoke inhalation. At the time, Pawan Kalyan was touring the Alluri Sitarama Raju district in Andhra Pradesh for official engagements. Upon receiving the news, he, along with his elder brother Chiranjeevi, immediately flew to Singapore to be by his son’s side. In a heartfelt public statement, Pawan Kalyan said: “Our youngest son, Mark Shankar, was injured in a school fire in Singapore and is being treated in hospital. He is gradually recovering.”He also extended gratitude to actors, politicians, and fans who prayed for Mark’s well-being and offered special poojas at temples on his behalf. After receiving treatment and recovering steadily, Mark Shankar has now returned to India with his family. To offer thanks for her son’s recovery, Pawan Kalyan’s wife Anna Lezhneva visited the Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Temple on April 14, where she performed a head tonsuring ritual at Padmavati Kalyana Katta — a sacred location within the temple premises where devotees offer their hair as a mark of devotion and gratitude. Anna also took part in several temple rituals and pujas following the ceremony. Chiranjeevi, who has been vocal about his nephew’s condition, shared a message of hope on social media: “Our baby Mark Shankar has come home. But he still needs to recover. With the grace and mercy of our clan deity, Anjaneya Swamy, he will soon be fully healthy and back to normal. Tomorrow is Hanuman Jayanti, and that Lord stood by us, saving that little child from great danger and tragedy.” He also thanked the public, writing: “People from various regions and villages stood in solidarity with our family by offering prayers and blessings. I, on behalf of my brother Pawan Kalyan and our entire family, wholeheartedly thank each and every one of you for your support.” The episode has brought a wave of concern and sympathy from fans and well-wishers across Andhra Pradesh and beyond, as the family continues to focus on Mark’s full recovery.

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Editor04 mins

Indian Army Downs Pakistan-Operated Chinese Drone Using Indigenous Laser-Based System; DRDO Unveils 30-Kilowatt Directed-Energy Weapon

In a significant technological breakthrough, the Indian Army intercepted and neutralised a Chinese-origin drone operated by the Pakistan Army near the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu using an indigenously developed anti-drone system. Defence sources confirmed that the drone had entered Indian territory in the 16 Corps area, located south of the Pir Panjal ranges. The swift response by Army Air Defence units, using the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System, ensured the unmanned aerial vehicle was brought down without incident. The Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System, developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), employs a variety of technologies to detect and disable hostile drones. It can jam communication signals, spoof navigation, and destroy aerial threats using a 2-kilowatt laser weapon capable of engaging targets from a distance of 800 to 1,000 metres. The system has already been deployed extensively along India’s borders in response to the increasing threat of drone incursions. Highlighting the country’s progress in directed-energy weapons, DRDO also unveiled a new 30-kilowatt laser weapon system designed to neutralise fixed-wing aircraft, swarm drones, and even incoming missiles. Having successfully completed trials, this advanced system is now entering production and deployment phases, placing India alongside a select group of nations — including the United States, Russia, and China — with operational high-powered laser weapons. Dr Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, described the achievement as “just the beginning of the journey,” noting the synergy between DRDO, industry partners, and academia. He emphasized that India is also advancing work on other high-energy technologies, such as high-energy microwaves and electromagnetic pulse weapons — key components of what he termed “Star Wars capability.” Dr Jagannath Nayak, Director of the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), DRDO, echoed the sentiment, calling the system a “massless weapon” that can neutralise multiple aerial threats by focusing intense beams of laser light. “This is an achievement for our country and DRDO,” he said, underlining the system’s ability to destroy fixed-wing aircraft and drone swarms in real-time. With this milestone, India is asserting itself as a leader in next-generation defence technologies, capable of countering evolving aerial threats with homegrown innovation.

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Editor04 mins

Salman Khan Receives Fresh Death Threat via Mumbai Police Traffic Department’s WhatsApp

Bollywood actor Salman Khan received a fresh death threat early Sunday morning through the WhatsApp number of the Mumbai police’s traffic department in Worli. The unidentified sender sent a chilling message around 6:30 am, threatening to enter Khan’s residence and kill him. The message further stated intentions to plant a bomb in the actor’s vehicle and detonate it. A senior police officer confirmed the details of the threat, noting that the sender had explicitly stated their intention to kill Salman Khan. The threatening message was sent to the traffic police helpline, prompting the authorities to register a case. The Worli police have launched an investigation and are actively working to locate the suspect. This is not the first time Salman Khan has received threats. The actor has been on the hit list of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, particularly linked to the 1998 Blackbuck poaching case. In recent months, Khan has faced multiple threats, some of which have come directly or indirectly through the Mumbai police. The most alarming incident occurred last April when a member of the Bishnoi gang opened fire outside Khan’s Bandra residence. Lawrence Bishnoi’s brother, Anmol Bishnoi, later claimed responsibility for the attack. Lawrence Bishnoi is currently imprisoned in Gujarat, while the Mumbai police arrested over a dozen members of the Bishnoi gang, invoking the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against them.

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Editor02 mins

PM Modi Slams Congress Over Waqf Law Opposition, Calls Out ‘Appeasement Politics’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress party over its opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, accusing it of appeasing Muslim fundamentalists and neglecting the broader Muslim community. Speaking at the inauguration of Hisar airport in Haryana, PM Modi said the Congress’s stand on the new law was a clear indication of its vote-bank politics. He challenged the party’s commitment to the Muslim community, questioning why it had never appointed a Muslim party president or allocated 50 per cent of its election tickets to Muslim candidates. The Prime Minister emphasized that the newly inaugurated Hisar airport would serve as a significant milestone in Haryana’s developmental journey. He also paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary, calling him a Dalit icon and the architect of the Constitution. Modi stated that every decision of his government is inspired by Babasaheb’s struggle and dedication to social justice. Targeting the Congress party’s historical approach, Modi accused it of misusing the Constitution for political power. “During the Emergency, the spirit of the Constitution was murdered,” he said. He criticized the Congress for never implementing a Uniform Civil Code, which he claimed is enshrined in the Constitution, while his government had taken a step forward by introducing it in Uttarakhand. Modi also accused the Congress of betraying Ambedkar during his lifetime. “They insulted him, made him lose elections, and tried to erase his legacy after his death,” he said, adding that the Congress had perpetuated vote-bank politics while ignoring real issues like education and empowerment of marginalized communities. He said the Waqf law, as changed arbitrarily by Congress, was used to benefit land mafias rather than poor Muslims, Dalits, and backward classes. According to Modi, the new amendment ensures that tribal lands and properties cannot be taken over by Waqf Boards, and that this will help restore the rights of poor and Pasmanda Muslims, which he described as true social justice. In response, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge countered Modi’s claims by invoking Ambedkar’s belief in the power of education. He said the current government does not follow Ambedkar’s vision but only indulges in blaming the Congress, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others from the past. Kharge also highlighted the Congress’s consistent demand for immediate implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill, with specific provisions for SC, ST, and OBC women, as part of their long-standing commitment to equality.

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Editor04 mins
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