Category Archives: india

family, filmmaking, india, money, rumors

‘Homebound’s real family was only paid ₹10,000? Director addresses rumors

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**‘Homebound’s Real Family Was Only Paid ₹10,000? Director Neeraj Ghaywan Addresses Rumors**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 3, 2025, 4:50 PM*

Neeraj Ghaywan, the director of the critically acclaimed film *Homebound*, has recently responded to circulating reports claiming that the family whose real-life story inspired the movie was compensated with a mere ₹10,000.

In a detailed statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ghaywan clarified that the ₹10,000 mentioned was a personal gesture made during his initial research phase and is not representative of the total compensation offered to the family.

**A Small Token, Not the Entire Compensation**

Ghaywan addressed the concerns directly, writing, “Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired *Homebound* was compensated with a mere ₹10,000, a shamefully low amount. I want to clarify that this sum was a small token I personally gave to Ram Charanji (Amrit’s father) many years ago during my initial research, simply as a parting gesture.”

He further emphasized, “Please do not mistake this for the full extent of the compensation provided. Neither I, nor the producers, would ever reduce such a deeply personal story to such a pittance. The family’s contributions are invaluable and deeply meaningful to me. We have honored their trust and stories with sincere respect and significant support.”

Respecting the privacy and personal bond he shares with the real-life heroes of *Homebound*, Ghaywan chose not to disclose the complete compensation amount, stating, “I personally don’t want to mention the number because that would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit, Saiyub—the original heroes of *Homebound*.”

**About *Homebound***

Released on September 26, 2025, *Homebound* is based on journalist Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay, *Taking Amrit Home*. The film portrays the journeys of two migrant friends during India’s COVID-19 lockdown, highlighting their struggles and resilience.

The movie stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, and is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. Garnering significant attention, *Homebound* has earned ₹2.9 crore worldwide so far, according to Sacnilk.

Furthermore, *Homebound* has been chosen as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards, reflecting its critical and cultural impact.

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*Read Director Neeraj Ghaywan’s full clarification on X [here](#).*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-family-got-only-rs-10k-director-reacts-to-rumors/story

demographics, economy, finance, india, investment

10% households invest in markets: Survey

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**Less than 10% of Indian Households Invest in Securities Market, Sebi Survey Reveals**

*MUMBAI:* According to a recent survey conducted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), less than one out of every ten households in India—only 9.5%—invest in securities market-related financial products such as stocks and mutual funds.

This low investment penetration persists despite the fact that 63% of the country’s total 33.7 crore households are aware of at least one such product.

**State-wise Investment Penetration**

The survey highlights significant variation across states. Delhi leads with nearly 21% of households investing in securities market products, followed by Maharashtra at 17%. On the other end of the spectrum, Uttarakhand records the lowest penetration with just 4.5% of stock-related investing households.

**Mutual Funds vs. Stocks**

At the all-India level, mutual funds have a higher penetration rate compared to stocks. About 6.7% of households invest in mutual funds, while 5.3% hold stocks. Other financial products such as Futures & Options (F&O), REITs/InvITs, and corporate bonds have less than 1% penetration among households.

**Risk Preferences**

The survey also sheds light on investors’ risk appetite. Nearly 80% of households prefer capital preservation over higher returns. This cautious approach extends to younger generations as well, with 79% of Gen-Z households displaying risk-averse behavior.

**About the Survey**

This nationwide survey was commissioned by Sebi in collaboration with the Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE), and other market infrastructure institutions.

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/10-households-invest-in-markets-survey/articleshow/124280549.cms

culture, festivals, india, politics

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi extends wishes on Vijayadashmi

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Extending wishes on X, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi wrote, “Heartfelt greetings on the grand festival of Vijayadashami, celebrating the victory of good over evil, humility over ego, justice over injustice, and truth over falsehood. I wish happiness, peace, prosperity, and harmony for all my fellow citizens.”

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India. This auspicious festival is celebrated across the country on October 2 this year. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and is observed in diverse ways throughout the nation. It commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of truth and righteousness over arrogance and evil.

A popular tradition in many parts of India during Dussehra is the effigy burning of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran. This ritual signifies the victory of good faith over evil.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his wishes and called the festival a symbol of the victory of good and truth over evil and untruth. While posting on the social media platform X, PM Modi wrote,
“Vijayadashami is a symbol of the victory of good and truth over evil and untruth. My wish is that on this sacred occasion, everyone receives the inspiration to continuously progress on the path of courage, wisdom, and devotion. My warmest greetings of Vijayadashami to my family members across the country,” as cited by news agency ANI.

Along with the Prime Minister, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also extended his greetings to the people on the occasion. As reported by ANI, in his message issued on the eve of Vijayadashami, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the festival symbolizes the victory of righteousness over unrighteousness, good over evil, and truth over falsehood.

He added that this festival inspires everyone to renounce the evils within and walk on the path of virtue. Emphasizing the need to live free from ego, he urged people to follow the path of truth and work together to strengthen social harmony in the state and the nation.

The Chief Minister further remarked that this auspicious festival also reminds us that those who stand with the truth always emerge victorious.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/congress-leader-priyanka-gandhi-extends-wishes-on-vijayadashmi-23596847

culture, india, music, obituary

Hindustani classical singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra dies at 89

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**Hindustani Classical Singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Dies at 89**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 02, 2025, 09:58 AM*

Renowned Indian classical singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Pandit Chhannulal Mishra, passed away on Thursday, October 2, at the age of 89. He spent his final moments at his daughter’s residence in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh.

According to his daughter Namrata, Mishra had been hospitalized for 17 to 18 days due to age-related health issues before returning home. He passed away around 4:00 AM. His last rites are scheduled to be performed in Varanasi at 5:00 PM on Thursday.

**Musical Legacy**

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was a stalwart of the Banaras gharana and was widely respected for his mastery of Khayal and Purab Ang Thumri styles in Hindustani classical music. Over the course of his illustrious career, he received numerous prestigious awards including the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Shiromani Award from Sur Singar Sansad, and the Government of India’s Sangeet Natak Akademi fellowship.

**Contributions to Film**

In addition to his classical music achievements, Mishra lent his soulful voice to several Bollywood films. Notably, he sang “Kaun Si Dor” in the 2011 film *Aarakshan*, which starred Deepika Padukone, Saif Ali Khan, and Amitabh Bachchan. He also performed the title track for Sunny Deol’s 2018 drama satire *Mohalla Assi*.

**Family and Honors**

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra is survived by his son Ramkumar Mishra, a professional tabla player, and three daughters. Throughout his life, he was honored with some of India’s highest civilian awards — the Padma Bhushan in 2010 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2020.

His profound contributions have left an indelible mark on the Indian classical music scene, inspiring generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/classical-singer-pandit-chhannulal-mishra-dies-at-89/story

celebrity, india, music, obituary

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Dies At 89 In Mirzapur; Legendary Singer Had Asked Family Not To Place Him On Ventilator

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Padma Vibhushan awardee and legendary semi-classical singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra passed away in the early hours of Thursday, October 2. He breathed his last around 4:30 am at his residence in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh. He was 89 years old.

His final rites will be performed in Kashi, and preparations are underway to bring his mortal remains to Varanasi. According to several media reports, his younger daughter, Dr. Namrata Mishra, stated that Pandit Mishra’s health worsened late on Wednesday night. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead by doctors around 4:30 am.

His only son, tabla maestro Pandit Ramkumar Mishra, left Delhi for Varanasi by road, as he could not get a flight ticket immediately. He is expected to reach the city by Thursday evening.

Pandit Mishra, regarded as the last prominent semi-classical singer in the league of Girija Devi, had been battling multiple health issues over the past few months. On September 11, his condition deteriorated significantly. A 15-member medical team from Mirzapur Medical College began treating him at his residence in the Mahant Shiwala area.

His blood sugar levels had spiked, and his hemoglobin dropped to a dangerously low level. Despite intensive medical treatment, including blood transfusions at Ramakrishna Mission Hospital in Mirzapur, his health continued to decline.

On September 12, doctors confirmed his hemoglobin had dropped to 7.6, causing severe pain and other complications. He was later referred to Sir Sunderlal Hospital at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where doctors initially suspected a heart attack. However, tests ruled this out.

Pandit Mishra was diagnosed with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, a serious lung condition, and was placed on non-invasive ventilator support. He also suffered from Type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and prostate enlargement. Prolonged illness had caused bedsores that led to septicemia (blood infection).

Doctors at BHU advised his family on September 15 to take him home when his condition failed to improve. Pandit Mishra had earlier expressed that he did not want to be placed on a ventilator, and his family honored his wishes.

After 13 days of treatment at BHU, he was discharged on September 26 and taken back to Mirzapur in an ambulance by his daughter.

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was a legendary Indian classical and semi-classical vocalist from the Banaras (Varanasi) gharana. He was celebrated for his command over khayal, thumri, dadra, chaiti, kajri, and bhajan singing.

Born in 1936 in Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, he later settled in Varanasi. Pandit Mishra was known not only for his powerful and emotive renditions but also for preserving traditional Banarasi folk-based forms like Hori and Chaiti.

He performed extensively across India and abroad, enchanting audiences with his soulful music.

In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian classical music, he was conferred with some of the nation’s highest civilian honors, including the Padma Bhushan in 2010 and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2019.

His legacy as a torchbearer of semi-classical music will continue to inspire generations to come.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/pandit-chhannulal-mishra-dies-at-89-in-mirzapur-legendary-singer-had-asked-family-not-to-place-him-on-ventilator

history, india, politics, society

`Let`s resolve to realise Gandhi`s dream by building cleaner, prosperous India`

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President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the eve of his 156th birthday anniversary, urging all citizens to resolve to realize his dream by building a cleaner, more capable, fully empowered, and prosperous India.

In a heartfelt message, she called upon everyone to dedicate themselves to the ideals and values of the Father of the Nation. “Gandhiji has given the message of peace, tolerance, and truth, which is an inspiration for entire humanity,” the President said.

She highlighted Gandhi’s lifelong commitment to eradicating social evils such as untouchability, illiteracy, and addiction. “With unwavering determination, he provided strength and support to the weaker sections of society,” Murmu added.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, she appealed, “Let us again resolve to follow the path of truth and non-violence, remain committed to the welfare and progress of the nation, and realize Gandhiji’s dream by building a cleaner, more capable, fully empowered, and prosperous India.”

President Murmu also emphasized Gandhiji’s steadfast belief in morality and ethics, which continues to inspire people to walk the path of righteousness. She noted his message of self-reliance through the Charkha, aiming to build a self-sufficient, educated India.

“Gandhiji always promoted the dignity of labour through his conduct and teachings. His life values remain relevant even today and will continue to guide us in the future,” the President said.

Murmu paid tribute to the Father of the Nation on behalf of all citizens on his birth anniversary, observed on Thursday.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or data of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/gandhi-jayanti-2025-lets-resolve-to-realise-mahatma-gandhis-dream-by-building-cleaner-prosperous-india-says-president-droupadi-murmu-23596761

health, india, mental health, public health

Maharashtra Tops Suicide Cases In India: Psychiatrists Warn Suicide Is A Medical Emergency

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Suicide in Maharashtra: A Growing Concern Despite Development

Mumbai: Suicide is a medical emergency, psychiatrists emphasize, requiring urgent attention from trained medical professionals. In 2023, India recorded 1,71,418 suicides, reflecting a slight increase of 0.3% compared to 2022, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

Maharashtra, despite being one of India’s most developed states, reported the highest number of suicide cases at 22,687, raising serious concerns among mental health experts.

Dr. Ashutosh Shah, Consultant Psychiatrist at Sir H N Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, commented on this trend. He expressed uncertainty about why Maharashtra leads in suicides despite its development but explained from a neurological perspective that suicide or attempted suicide is an extreme manifestation of the fight-or-flight response, where the individual perceives death as the only option available.

He emphasized, “As trained medical doctors, psychiatrists must always treat suicide as a medical emergency.”

Underlying Causes and Contributing Factors

While immediate triggers may be evident, both environmental and biological factors often contribute to suicidal behavior. According to NCRB data, the leading causes of suicide in India include:

  • Family problems and illness
  • Drug abuse or alcoholism (7%)
  • Marriage-related issues (5.3%)
  • Love affairs (4.7%)
  • Bankruptcy or indebtedness (3.8%)
  • Unemployment (1.8%)
  • Exam failure (1.4%)
  • Death of a loved one (1.3%)
  • Career-related problems (1.1%)
  • Property disputes (1%)

Dr. Shah further highlighted the importance of government policies to identify at-risk individuals on a population level. These individuals may include people diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, those from impoverished or socio-economically challenged backgrounds, and individuals undergoing acute environmental crises.

He stated, “Targeted interventions are essential. This begins with identification of at-risk individuals and is followed by early treatment and support from qualified professionals, particularly psychiatrists.”

Recognizing Warning Signs of Suicide

Rehna William, Clinical Psycho-oncologist at HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre, Colaba, Mumbai, explained that suicidal thoughts often manifest through verbal cues such as talking about death or expressing hopelessness. Behavioral changes like withdrawing from loved ones, mood swings, giving away belongings, or losing interest in usual activities may also be warning signs.

She added, “Suicide among cancer patients is multifactorial but preventable. Beyond physical suffering, untreated depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and financial or social stress are major contributors. Awareness, early intervention, and timely support can save lives.”

Need Help?

If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Reach out to mental health helplines or consult qualified medical professionals.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-tops-suicide-cases-in-india-psychiatrists-warn-suicide-is-a-medical-emergency

child protection, criminal justice, india, law

Bombay HC: Minor’s Consent Or Marriage With Family Approval No Ground To Quash POCSO Case

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**Mumbai: Bombay High Court’s Nagpur Bench Upholds POCSO Act in Minor Marriage Case**

The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has ruled that neither a love affair between a minor girl and an adult man, nor their families’ consent to marriage followed by the birth of a child, can be grounds to quash criminal proceedings under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

### Plea to Quash FIR Rejected

A bench comprising Justices Urmila Joshi-Phalke and Nandesh Deshpande dismissed a plea filed by a 29-year-old man and his parents seeking to quash a First Information Report (FIR) registered against them under the POCSO Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.

### Details of the Marriage

According to the prosecution, the man married the minor girl on June 2, 2024, as per Muslim rites, with the consent of both families. At the time of the marriage, the girl was below 18 years of age and subsequently gave birth to a child while still a minor.

### Court Observations

The bench noted, “Though she states that the said marriage was as per Muslim rites and religion, at the time of marriage, she was below 18 years of age. When she delivered the child, she was also below 18 years old.”

### Accused Fully Aware of the Minor’s Age

The court observed that the accused, who was 27 years old at the time of the marriage and is now 29, was fully aware of the girl’s minor status. The judges stated, “At least, he ought to have understood that he should wait till the girl attains 18 years of age. Then, in spite of having knowledge that the girl is a minor, when he takes her away from the legal custody of her parents, from that point itself he commits the offence. Merely because now the girl has given birth to the child, we are of the opinion that the acts of the applicants cannot be brushed aside.”

### Reference to Supreme Court PIL on Age of Consent

The bench also referred to the Supreme Court’s ongoing suo motu public interest litigation regarding the “Right to Privacy of Adolescents.” In this case, the Union Government has categorically opposed reducing the age of consent.

In its affidavit, the Centre maintained that lowering the age “would disturb the very purpose for which the POCSO Act was enacted” and would reintroduce the mischief the law seeks to prevent.

### Legal Standing and Court’s Conclusion

The bench remarked, “As the consent of the minor is irrelevant and the stand taken by the Central Government before the Apex Court also shows that it would be against the mandate of the Constitution of India, as law is not for individuals but for society at large.”

Holding that justice must be administered according to law, the court concluded that there were no exceptional circumstances warranting interference under Section 482 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

“We, therefore, do not find this to be a fit case… The application stands rejected,” the judges ruled.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/bombay-hc-minors-consent-or-marriage-with-family-approval-no-ground-to-quash-pocso-case

education, engineering, government, india, ranking

NIRF 2025 Engineering Ranking Out: IIT Madras Leads, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay In Top Three

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**NIRF 2025 Engineering Ranking: IIT Madras Tops Once Again**

The Ministry of Education announced the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings on September 4, unveiling India’s premier higher education institutes across 17 categories. Among these, the Engineering stream rankings have garnered significant attention.

In the Engineering category, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has once again secured the top position, reaffirming its academic and research excellence. Following closely are IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay, maintaining their status as leading engineering institutions in the country.

### Top 10 Engineering Institutes in NIRF 2025

1. IIT Madras
2. IIT Delhi
3. IIT Bombay
4. IIT Kanpur
5. IIT Kharagpur
6. IIT Roorkee
7. IIT Hyderabad
8. IIT Guwahati
9. National Institute of Technology (NIT) Tiruchirappalli
10. IIT (BHU) Varanasi

IIT Madras, based in Chennai, has not only topped the Engineering ranking but also leads the Overall category, demonstrating its sustained dominance in technical education and research excellence.

The 2025 NIRF rankings align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), evaluating institutions across diverse streams including Overall, Universities, Colleges, Management, Medical, Law, and more.

Reflecting on the previous year, IITs continued to hold sway in the Engineering category, with the top eight positions occupied by IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee, IIT Guwahati, and IIT Hyderabad.

These rankings serve as a benchmark for academic quality and institutional performance, guiding students and stakeholders in making informed decisions about higher education in India.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/nirf-2025-engineering-ranking-out-iit-madras-leads-iit-delhi-iit-bombay-in-top-three

crime, gender issues, india, public safety

Crimes Against Women In Mumbai Rise Nearly By 12% In 2025, Raising Alarms Over Safety

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Mumbai’s Long-Standing Slogan of Being a “Safe City” Under Question as Crimes Against Women Rise

Mumbai, often hailed as a “Safe City,” is facing growing concerns over women’s safety as the latest data from the Mumbai Police reveals a worrying increase in crimes against women. The statistics from the first seven months of 2025 show a nearly 12% rise compared to the same period last year, painting a starkly different picture from the city’s longstanding reputation.

Sharp Rise in Rape, Kidnapping, and Molestation Cases

According to police reports, 353 rape cases have been registered so far this year, up from 317 in 2024—an 11% increase. Impressively, investigations in 346 of these cases have already been completed, reflecting police efficiency in handling such sensitive matters. However, the growing number of incidents remains alarming.

Kidnapping cases involving women have surged by 18%, rising to 822 from 697 last year. Molestation cases have also seen a significant jump, climbing to 515 from 384 in 2024. These figures underscore the increasing threats women face in public spaces across the city.

Persistent Challenges: POCSO, Harassment, and Domestic Abuse

Cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act continue to be at troubling levels. Additionally, reports of abetment to suicide and marital cruelty stood at 271, a slight decline from 289 last year but still a serious concern.

Mental harassment cases have also risen, with 268 incidents reported compared to fewer cases in the previous year. These numbers highlight ongoing challenges surrounding domestic abuse and psychological violence.

Acid Attacks and Dowry Deaths Remain Disturbing Issues

Mumbai has recorded five acid attack cases and five dowry deaths so far in 2025. While these figures are consistent with previous years, they emphasize the persistence of grave social evils that continue to menace the city’s women.

Overall Surge Despite Strong Police Response

In total, 3,920 cases of crimes against women were recorded till July 2025, compared to 3,500 during the same period last year. Although the police have completed investigations in nearly 94% of these cases, the overall rise in crimes indicates that enforcement alone is insufficient to curb the deep-rooted crisis.

A Social and Administrative Challenge

The steady increase in crimes against women in a metropolis like Mumbai highlights a complex social and administrative challenge. While the police deserve credit for their swift and thorough investigations, the broader issue remains society’s mindset towards women’s safety.

Experts emphasize the urgent need for the government, law enforcement agencies, and civil society to collaborate and implement stronger, more effective, and sensitive policies. Only through such collective efforts can the city hope to truly ensure the safety and security of its women residents.

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*Stay informed on women’s safety and social issues. Share your thoughts and support initiatives aimed at creating a safer Mumbai.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/crimes-against-women-in-mumbai-rise-nearly-by-12-in-2025-raising-alarms-over-safety