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Anurag Kashyap says ‘Bandar’ not about ‘MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’

**Anurag Kashyap Says ‘Bandar’ Is Not About ‘MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 04, 2025, 05:04 PM*

Anurag Kashyap’s latest film, *Bandar* (Monkey in a Cage), was recently showcased at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film is an unsettling exploration of the ripple effects of the #MeToo movement in digital-age India.

Kashyap opened up about the inspiration behind this provocative film and its lead character, played by Bobby Deol.

### The Inspiration Behind Bandar

Kashyap explained that *Bandar* emerged as a reaction to the rapid changes brought about by social media. He told the Indian Express, “*Bandar* came out of a reaction to what’s happening on social media. Within minutes, people go viral. Similarly, within minutes, they are canceled.”

He emphasized that he was not trying to make a film about #MenToo or #MeToo. “Sometimes people don’t realize what they are doing. Everyone deserves a chance to correct themselves,” Kashyap added.

### A Social Commentary on India’s Judicial System

The movie centers around Samar (played by Bobby Deol), an aging television star who is accused of sexual assault by his former girlfriend, Gayatri (played by Sapna Pabbi).

Kashyap said, “I wanted the film to highlight how broken our system is. Only 27 percent of rape cases are reported. In small towns and villages, such cases often go unreported.”

He also expressed concern that the current laws were a “knee-jerk reaction” to the 2012 Delhi gang rape case and alleged that these laws are being misused to target “moneyed people.”

### Director’s Insight on Casting Bobby Deol

When asked why he chose Bobby Deol for the lead role, Kashyap described *Bandar* as “a coming-of-age story of a man-child” who doesn’t realize his mistakes until almost the end.

He said, “Bobby understands what it is to be a loser,” making him the perfect fit for the character of Samar.

### Release Details

As of now, there is no official release date for *Bandar* in India. Fans await further updates on when the film will be available for viewing.

*Bandar* promises to be a compelling look at the complexities of justice and accountability in contemporary India—through the lens of media, social perceptions, and the flawed legal system.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-talks-about-bandar/story

Sportvot x FPJ: Badminton Continues To Thrill In Perth

The YONEX U13/U17 Australian National Team and Individual Championships 2025 continued in full swing at Perth, Australia, showcasing exceptional young talent from across the nation. Running from 30th September to 6th October, the tournament witnessed another exciting day of competitive badminton as rising stars battled for supremacy on the court.

In the Under-17 category, Maxwell Liu delivered a strong performance in the opening match, defeating Deqi Wang with a close scoreline of 30–26. Maxwell displayed both composure and strategic shot-making under pressure, setting a high standard for the matches that followed.

Following that, A. Nirmal impressed the crowd with a commanding straight-game victory over Siyuan Xu. With a decisive 21–10, 21–4 scoreline, Nirmal asserted his dominance from start to finish, leaving no doubt about his form.

Another thrilling Under-17 clash saw X. Ling edge past T. Shirshova in a nail-biting game, clinching the win 21–19. The match was filled with long rallies and high intensity, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last point.

The Under-13 matches also featured remarkable performances from the younger shuttlers. Claire Zhang displayed outstanding control and accuracy as she comfortably defeated Renae Cheng 30–11. Meanwhile, Ruiqi Chen dominated L. Kurniawan with a stunning 21–3, 21–5 victory, demonstrating her potential as one of the brightest emerging stars in the category.

As the tournament progresses, these young athletes continue to impress, promising an exciting conclusion to the YONEX U13/U17 Australian National Team and Individual Championships 2025.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/sportvot-x-fpj-badminton-continues-to-thrill-in-perth

‘Been Plaguing For Last Two Series’: Roston Chase Reflects On West Indies’ Batting Struggles After Innings Defeat In IND vs WI 1st Test

West Indies captain Roston Chase has identified poor batting as the primary reason behind the team’s humiliating defeat in the first Test. “We had a poor batting display. We have not been able to bat for 80 overs. It has been plaguing us for the last two series. We are not getting 250-300 runs,” he explained.

Reflecting on the decision to bat first after winning the toss, Chase stated that it was not the wrong call. “I don’t think it was a bad decision. It was a good wicket to bat on. We didn’t start well and never put any partnerships in place. That hurt us,” he added.

Chase also shared insights on the team’s experience against spin bowling during the Test. “Defence needs to be a bit tighter. It was a wicket that we could bat on. We need to trust our defence and be more solid in it,” he said.

Addressing concerns about the financial challenges facing West Indies cricket, Chase was candid. “I don’t want to touch too much on it. It’s a struggle in the Caribbean for finances. The system in the Caribbean is a bit poor. The onus is on the players to find some way to get performances,” he remarked.

Looking ahead, Chase remained optimistic about the chances of a revival in West Indies cricket. “I wouldn’t be a true West Indian if I said no. We have to take some small steps and work towards that. There have been times where other teams have been down and we have been up. So it’s possible,” he stated.

Finally, the West Indies skipper dismissed suggestions that there is a lack of desire or motivation within the dressing room. “The guys are eager to play and make an impression and make a living for themselves. So I absolutely don’t see any lack of desire in the dressing room,” he concluded.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/been-plaguing-for-last-two-series-roston-chase-reflects-on-west-indies-batting-struggles-after-innings-defeat-in-ind-vs-wi-1st-test

Anurag Kashyap says ‘Bandar’ not about ‘MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’

**Anurag Kashyap Says ‘Bandar’ Is Not About ‘MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 4, 2025, 05:04 PM*

Anurag Kashyap’s latest film, *Bandar* (Monkey in a Cage), recently premiered at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The movie offers an unsettling exploration of the ripple effects of the #MeToo movement in digital-age India.

**Film’s Theme Born from Social Media Reaction**

Kashyap opened up about the inspiration behind this provocative film and its lead character, portrayed by Bobby Deol. Speaking to the Indian Express, he explained that *Bandar* emerged as a reaction to the rapid changes brought about by social media culture.

He said, “*Bandar* came out of a reaction to what’s happening on social media. Within minutes, people go viral. Similarly, within minutes, they are canceled. I was not trying to make a #Mentoo or #Metoo film. Sometimes people don’t realize what they are doing. Everyone deserves a chance to correct themselves.”

**A Commentary on India’s Broken Judicial System**

The story revolves around Samar (Bobby Deol), an aging television star accused of sexual assault by his former girlfriend, Gayatri (Sapna Pabbi). Kashyap emphasized that the film shines a light on the flaws of India’s judicial system.

“I wanted the film to highlight how broken our system is. Only 27 percent of rape cases are reported. In small towns and villages, such cases often go unreported,” he noted. According to Kashyap, the current laws were a “knee-jerk reaction” to the 2012 Delhi gang rape case and are often misused to target affluent individuals.

**Director’s Insight on Casting Bobby Deol**

Describing the film as “a coming-of-age story of a man-child,” Kashyap explained that Samar doesn’t fully recognize his mistakes until almost the end of the movie. The director chose Bobby Deol for the role because he “understands what it is to be a loser.”

Currently, there is no official release date announced for *Bandar* in India. Fans eagerly await this thought-provoking film that promises to spark important conversations around social justice and accountability.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-talks-about-bandar/story

Firefighters fight “dangerous” funding cuts

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is at risk of losing eight fire engines and two fire stations under new proposals put forward by the local fire authority, according to the Fire Brigades Union.

The union claims the Bucks fire service has already undergone some of the most severe cuts in the country, losing over a third of its firefighters between 2010 and 2024. Any further reductions, they warn, would seriously undermine public safety.

Mitch Wallace, the union’s secretary for Buckinghamshire, called for a renewed focus on securing investment to rebuild the service and to recruit and retain more firefighters. He emphasised that current fire crew shortages “put lives at risk.”

Chris Wycherley, a member of the union’s council for the broader Southern region, echoed these concerns. He argued that fire services “have been hollowed out by systemic underfunding and short-sighted mismanagement.” Wycherley added, “Every closure and every cut leaves communities more vulnerable and erodes response standards further.” He called for more investment and sustained funding to “keep firefighters and the public safe” and to avoid “a dangerous race to the bottom.”

Union general secretary Steve Wright pointed to a recent incident this summer when firefighters from across the country were called to the South Coast to help tackle a wildfire, highlighting the strain caused “due to a lack of resources.” He warned that losing resources locally not only threatens the safety of residents but also impacts fire coverage nationwide. Wright stressed, “Cuts kill,” and called for “an end to this dangerous austerity.”

The Fire Brigades Union continues to urge the local fire authority and government to reconsider the proposed cuts in order to maintain vital emergency services and protect communities across Buckinghamshire.
https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/25517878.buckinghamshire-fire-service-face-funding-cuts/?ref=rss

Ahmedabad Test: Decoding Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round brilliance vs West Indies

**Ahmedabad Test: Decoding Ravindra Jadeja’s All-Round Brilliance vs West Indies**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 04, 2025, 03:58 PM*

India’s vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show in the first Test against the West Indies at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. His unbeaten century and a four-wicket haul played a pivotal role in India’s emphatic innings and 140-run victory. The match concluded on Day 3 after the West Indies were bowled out for just 146 runs in 45.1 overs in their second innings.

### Match Highlights

Jadeja’s bowling was instrumental in the West Indies’ second innings. He claimed four wickets for 54 runs from 13 overs, making him the standout bowler. This all-round effort brought him close to the rare ‘ton and five-for’ achievement in a Test match—a feat he has accomplished twice before.

The left-arm spinner trapped three of West Indies’ top-five batters—John Campbell, Brandon King, and Shai Hope—and also dismissed Johann Layne. It is notable that Jadeja had bowled three wicket-less overs in the first innings.

### Batting Masterclass: An Unbeaten Century

Chasing the West Indies’ first innings total of 162, Jadeja came to the crease at 218/4 and built a commanding 206-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Dhruv Jurel. While Jurel scored a fluent 125, Jadeja’s aggressive and composed batting ensured India maintained a strong lead.

His unbeaten knock of 104 runs off 176 balls was an ideal mix of defense and aggression, especially against spinners. During his innings, Jadeja struck six fours and five sixes, remaining not out to steer India forward.

### Impressive Stats

– **15th Four-Wicket Haul in Tests:** According to ESPNcricinfo, this was Jadeja’s 15th four-wicket haul in Test cricket. He also has as many five-wicket hauls to his name.

– **Career Figures:** Playing his 86th Test, Jadeja has amassed 334 wickets at an impressive average of 25.07.

– **Dominance Against West Indies:** Versus the West Indies, he has taken 27 wickets in eight Tests at an excellent average of 20.2. Although he is yet to achieve a five-wicket haul against the Caribbean team, he boasts 242 wickets in home Tests at an average of 20.65.

### Batting Milestone: Approaching 4,000 Test Runs

With the bat, Jadeja has scored 3,990 runs at a remarkable average of 38.73, including six centuries and 27 fifties. At 36 years old, he is now just 10 runs away from becoming the fourth cricketer ever to score over 4,000 runs and take more than 300 wickets in Test cricket.

This innings marked Jadeja’s second century in eight Tests against the West Indies (along with two fifties), accumulating 399 runs at an outstanding average of 66.50 against them.

Ravindra Jadeja’s stellar all-round performance in Ahmedabad once again underscored his immense value to the Indian cricket team, highlighting his mastery with both bat and ball on home soil.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ravindra-jadeja-s-all-round-heroics-guide-india-to-win-over-wi/story

Anurag Kashyap says ‘Bandar’ not about ‘MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’

**Anurag Kashyap Says ‘Bandar’ Is Not About ‘#MeToo’ or ‘MenToo’**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 04, 2025, 05:04 PM*

Anurag Kashyap’s latest film, *Bandar* (Monkey in a Cage), recently premiered at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The movie delves into the unsettling ripple effects of the #MeToo movement in digital-age India. Kashyap shared insights about the inspiration behind this provocative film and its lead character, portrayed by Bobby Deol.

**A Reaction to Social Media’s Rapid Changes**

Kashyap revealed that *Bandar* was born out of his reaction to the swift transformations ushered in by social media. Speaking to the Indian Express, he explained, “*Bandar* came out of a reaction to what’s happening on social media. Within minutes, people go viral. Similarly, within minutes, they are canceled. I was not trying to make a #Mentoo or #Metoo film. Sometimes people don’t realize what they are doing. Everyone deserves a chance to correct themselves.”

**Highlighting India’s Broken Judicial System**

The film centers around Samar (Bobby Deol), an aging television star accused of sexual assault by his former girlfriend, Gayatri (Sapna Pabbi). Kashyap emphasized his intention to spotlight the deep flaws in India’s judicial system, stating, “Only 27 percent of rape cases are reported. In small towns and villages, such cases often go unreported.”

He also noted that the current laws were a “knee-jerk reaction” to the 2012 Delhi gang rape case and cautioned that they are sometimes misused to target affluent individuals.

**Choosing Bobby Deol for the Role**

Describing the film as “a coming-of-age story of a man-child” who only realizes his mistakes near the end, Kashyap shared why he cast Bobby Deol in the lead role. “Bobby understands what it is to be a loser,” the director said, highlighting the actor’s suitability for portraying Samar’s complex character.

As of now, there is no official release date announced for *Bandar* in India. Fans await further updates on the film’s availability following its TIFF premiere.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-talks-about-bandar/story

PBA: June Mar Fajardo grateful as record 9th MVP looms

MANILA, Philippines – As June Mar Fajardo is set to claim a record-extending ninth PBA Most Valuable Player award, he was once again counting his blessings.

“Who would have thought?” Fajardo said in Filipino. “I was never a huge basketball fan at the beginning, but here I am possibly winning another MVP.”

READ: PBA: June Mar Fajardo

https://sports.inquirer.net/642900/pba-june-mar-fajardo-grateful-as-record-9th-mvp-looms

Anshula Kapoor announces engagement to Rohan Thakkar; see pictures here

Anshula Kapoor, daughter of renowned producer Boney Kapoor and the late Mona Shourie Kapoor, has recently announced her engagement.

She is set to marry writer Rohan Thakkar, marking an exciting new chapter in her life.

The couple’s engagement has been celebrated by family and fans alike, highlighting a joyful moment for the Kapoor family.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/anshula-kapoor-announces-her-engagement/story

Mitchell Marsh hammers his maiden century in T20Is: Key stats

Australia have clinched the T20I series against New Zealand following a thrilling final match.

The home side secured a three-wicket victory, sealing the series in spectacular fashion.

This win highlights Australia’s dominance and resilience throughout the series, making it a memorable contest for fans on both sides.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/mitchell-marsh-gets-to-his-maiden-t20i-hundred/story