California’s Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Tuesday that the content may be used at his absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/california-governor-newsom-signs-law-making-diwali-an-official-state-holiday-23597714
Yearly Archives: 2025
EXCLUSIVE: Karan Singh Chhabra gears up to play an army officer in Pen Movies’ Control
**Karan Singh Chhabra Gears Up to Play an Army Officer in Pen Movies’ Upcoming Film Control**
Talk show host and actor Karan Singh Chhabra, who recently appeared as himself in the TV show *Anupama*, is all set to take on a new challenging role. He will be seen portraying an army officer in Pen Movies’ upcoming Hindi film *Control*.
Directed by Safdar Abbas and produced by Jayantilal Gada in association with Abhay Sinha and Pankaj Tiwari, *Control* is a cybercrime thriller scheduled to release in theatres on October 10, 2025. The film delves into the world of digital crime, a subject that resonates deeply in today’s technology-driven era.
Known for embracing diverse roles, Karan Singh Chhabra has once again transformed his look for this film. After going completely bald for his role in *Chatrapathi*, he will now appear in a turbaned avatar in *Control*. This transformation highlights his dedication to exploring unique characters and appearances.
Sharing his thoughts on the role, Karan expressed enthusiasm for portraying a disciplined yet emotionally layered army officer. He noted that the project presents an excellent opportunity for him to grow as an actor.
Backed by a strong production team and a timely, contemporary theme, *Control* promises to deliver a gripping cinematic experience. Audiences can look forward to an engaging watch when the film releases in theatres this October.
Stay tuned to Bollywood News Live Updates for more on this and other exciting projects.
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/exclusive-karan-singh-chhabra-gears-play-army-officer-pen-movies-control/
Maharashtra Rolls Out Rooftop Solar Scheme For Low Users, 90–95% Subsidy To Help Slash Electricity Bills To Zero
**Maharashtra Government Launches Major Rooftop Solar Subsidy Scheme for Low-Income Households**
Mumbai: In a significant move to promote clean energy and reduce electricity costs for disadvantaged families, the Maharashtra government has introduced the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Roof Top (SMART) Solar Scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to provide a substantial subsidy of 90 to 95 percent for eligible consumers to install rooftop solar panels, helping them cut their power bills to nearly zero by harnessing solar energy.
### Who Will Benefit from the Scheme?
The SMART Solar Scheme primarily targets Below Poverty Line (BPL), Scheduled Caste (SC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST) households that consume less than 100 units of electricity per month. Under this program, these families will pay only a small fraction of the installation cost, with the central and state governments covering the rest.
For instance, the cost of a 1KW solar system is approximately Rs 50,000. Here’s how the subsidy breaks down:
– **BPL Households:** Central government subsidy of Rs 30,000 + State government subsidy of Rs 17,500, with the consumer paying just Rs 2,500.
– **SC/ST Households:** Total subsidy of Rs 45,000, leaving the consumer responsible for Rs 5,000.
– **Other Low-Usage Consumers (below 100 units, not BPL/SC/ST):** Subsidy of Rs 40,000, with a consumer contribution of Rs 10,000.
### Budget and Implementation Plans
The Maharashtra government has allocated Rs 330 crore for the financial year 2025–26 and Rs 325 crore for 2026–27 to support this scheme. Implementation will be handled by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), funded through the state budget.
Officials expect the scheme to benefit at least 5 lakh families, including approximately 1.5 lakh BPL users and 3.5 lakh other low-usage households. After installation, the solar system supplier will manage maintenance for a period of five years, ensuring hassle-free operation for beneficiaries.
### Priority for Remote and Needy Areas
Special emphasis will be placed on remote and tribal regions such as Melghat, Nandurbar, and Gadchiroli, where affordable electricity access remains a challenge. The government hopes that by promoting rooftop solar power in these areas, not only will families receive inexpensive and reliable electricity, but they may also generate additional income by selling surplus solar energy back to the grid.
This initiative marks a critical step toward sustainable energy adoption and economic upliftment for some of Maharashtra’s most vulnerable communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/maharashtra-rolls-out-rooftop-solar-scheme-for-low-users-9095-subsidy-to-help-slash-electricity-bills-to-zero
Shabana Azmi becomes first Indian actor to be invited to conduct an acting masterclass at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York
The legendary Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, renowned for training icons like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro, has extended a rare honour to veteran actor Shabana Azmi.
After watching her acclaimed solo play *Broken Images*, the institute’s President, Victoria Kraner, personally invited Shabana Azmi to visit the school and conduct an acting masterclass for NYU theatre students. This marks a historic moment, as Azmi is the first Indian actor ever to receive such an invitation from the institution regarded as the mecca of acting.
When this writer reached out to the incomparable Shabana Azmi in the US, she expressed surprise. She said, “How did you get to know this so quickly? Yes, I have been invited to hold a masterclass at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. How do I react to this honour? Like I do to all recognition. Just keep working, and never stop to admire yourself. And if the recognition for your work does our country proud, then I am happy.”
Azmi was also recently seen sharing a happy moment with Robert Ellerman, Director and teacher, and Victoria Kraner, President of the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
*Also Read:*
[Shabana Azmi to tour North America with her play Broken Images, written by the legendary Girish Karnad]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shabana-azmi-becomes-first-indian-actor-invited-conduct-acting-masterclass-lee-strasberg-theatre-film-institute-new-york/
Shabana Azmi becomes first Indian actor to be invited to conduct an acting masterclass at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York
The legendary Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, renowned for training icons like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro, has extended a rare honour to veteran actor Shabana Azmi.
After watching her acclaimed solo play *Broken Images*, the institute’s President, Victoria Kraner, personally invited Shabana Azmi to visit the school and conduct an acting masterclass for NYU theatre students. This marks a historic moment, as Azmi is the first Indian actor ever to receive such an invitation from the institution regarded as the mecca of acting.
When this writer reached out to the incomparable Shabana Azmi in the US, she expressed surprise. “How did you get to know this so quickly? Yes, I have been invited to hold a masterclass at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. How do I react to this honour? Like I do to all recognition: just keep working, and never stop to admire yourself. And if the recognition for your work does our country proud, then I am happy.”
Azmi was also recently seen sharing a happy moment with Robert Ellerman, Director and teacher, and Victoria Krane, President of the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
**Also Read:** [Shabana Azmi to tour North America with her play Broken Images, written by the legendary Girish Karnad]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shabana-azmi-becomes-first-indian-actor-invited-conduct-acting-masterclass-lee-strasberg-theatre-film-institute-new-york/
Bengaluru Weather Update: IMD Issues Alert In These Regions Of Karnataka; Check Details
**Bengaluru Weather Update: Moderate to Heavy Rainfall Expected on October 8, 2025**
Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, is set to experience moderate to heavy rainfall on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Cloudy skies are also expected throughout the day, creating a mild and pleasant atmosphere for residents.
The city woke up at 6:09 AM, with minimum and maximum temperatures forecasted to range between 21°C and 27°C respectively. The sunset is expected at 6:09 PM.
According to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), which shared a detailed seven-day weather report on X (formerly Twitter), scattered light to moderate rain accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers will be widespread across the state. Coastal, Malnad, and South Interior districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall from today through October 12.
**Today’s Air Quality and Humidity**
Humidity levels in Bengaluru are expected to hover around 88%, contributing to the overall moisture in the air. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecasted to be approximately 30, indicating good air quality across the city and surrounding areas. This AQI level is expected to remain stable throughout the day.
**IMD Advisory**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory warning that the rainfall may cause temporary disruptions to electricity supply. There is also a possibility of minor traffic snarls and the uprooting of weak tree branches due to strong winds.
Residents are advised to stay indoors and ensure that windows and doors remain closed to stay safe during these weather conditions.
**About the Southwest Monsoon**
The Southwest Monsoon is a seasonal wind shift bringing heavy rainfall to South Asia, particularly India, from June to September. This monsoon period is characterized by a reversed wind pattern, with winds blowing from land to sea and vice versa, carrying moisture that results in significant rainfall.
Stay tuned for further updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe in the coming days.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/bengaluru-weather-update-for-october-8
Shabana Azmi becomes first Indian actor to be invited to conduct an acting masterclass at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York
The legendary Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, renowned for training icons like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro, has extended a rare honour to veteran actor Shabana Azmi.
After watching her acclaimed solo play *Broken Images*, the institute’s President, Victoria Kraner, personally invited Shabana Azmi to visit the school and conduct an acting masterclass for NYU theatre students. This marks a historic moment, as Azmi is the first Indian actor ever to receive such an invitation from the institution regarded as the mecca of acting.
When this writer reached out to the incomparable Shabana Azmi in the US, she expressed surprise. “How did you get to know this so quickly? Yes, I have been invited to hold a masterclass at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. How do I react to this honour? Like I do to all recognition. Just keep working, and never stop to admire yourself. And if the recognition for your work does our country proud, then I am happy.”
Azmi was also recently seen sharing a happy moment with Robert Ellerman, Director and teacher, and Victoria Kraner, President at Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
**Also Read:** [Shabana Azmi to tour North America with her play Broken Images, written by the legendary Girish Karnad]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shabana-azmi-becomes-first-indian-actor-invited-conduct-acting-masterclass-lee-strasberg-theatre-film-institute-new-york/
AstraZeneca gets nod to market cancer drug in India
AstraZeneca Pharma announced on Tuesday that it has received approval from the national drug regulator to market a new cancer treatment drug in India.
The company has been granted approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to import, market, and distribute Trastuzumab Deruxtecan for an additional indication in the country, according to an official statement.
With this approval, Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is now indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive solid tumours. These patients must have received prior systemic therapy and have no satisfactory alternative treatment options.
This approval marks the first and only antibody-drug conjugate in India with a tumour-agnostic indication, representing a significant advancement in precision oncology, AstraZeneca said.
*Disclaimer:*
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https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/astrazeneca-gets-nod-to-market-cancer-drug-in-india-23597685
Andrade goes missing just a week after returning to AEW
Andrade shocked the wrestling world by making his return to AEW during the sixth anniversary celebration of Dynamite last week.
His unexpected appearance caught fans and commentators by surprise, adding excitement to the milestone event.
As one of AEW’s standout performers, Andrade’s comeback has generated a lot of buzz and anticipation for future storylines.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/aew/news-andrade-goes-missing-just-week-returning-aew
Rajasthan Accident: Massive Fire Erupts After Chemical Tanker Rams LPG Truck On Jaipur-Ajmer Highway; Visuals Surface
**Massive Fire Erupts on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway After Chemical Tanker Collides with LPG Truck**
Jaipur (Rajasthan): Late Tuesday night, a tanker carrying chemicals rammed into a truck loaded with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders near Sawarda Puliya in Mauzamabad tehsil, Rajasthan. The collision triggered a massive fire on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway and brought traffic to a complete halt.
According to IG Rahul Prakash, several trucks and trailers were parked near a dhaba when the chemical-laden tanker collided with one of the trucks. The LPG cylinders in the truck burst upon impact, and the tanker also caught fire.
“There are no reports of serious injuries, and no one is expected to have been critically hurt. A few drivers and helpers suffered minor injuries and have been taken to hospital,” IG Prakash stated.
Authorities are taking steps to prevent trucks from parking on roadsides in the future. “We are enforcing measures to stop parking on roadsides, and trucks will no longer be allowed to park here. Steps to prevent such accidents will be implemented moving forward,” added IG Prakash.
Following the incident, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa visited the site, where police, administration, and fire department teams continue to manage relief and rescue operations.
Speaking to ANI, Deputy CM Bairwa said that the truck driver and conductor were rushed to the hospital. He added, “The driver of the vehicle involved in the accident is yet to be identified. No casualties have been reported. The administration is working diligently.”
More details about the incident are awaited.
This is not the first such accident on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway. In December last year, a truck loaded with chemicals collided with a tanker carrying LPG and other vehicles, resulting in a massive fire. That tragic incident claimed at least seven lives and left several people severely injured, with many suffering burns covering over 50 percent of their bodies.
*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/rajasthan-accident-massive-fire-erupts-after-chemical-tanker-rams-lpg-truck-on-jaipur-ajmer-highway-visuals-surface
