Category Archives: india

india, public transit, transportation

Mumbai Metro Line-3: Train Evacuated Near Santacruz After Technical Snag, MMRCL Denies Fire

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**Mumbai Metro Line-3 Train Evacuated Near Santacruz Station Following Technical Issue**

A Mumbai Metro train bound for Worli on the Aqua Line (Metro Line-3) was evacuated on Friday afternoon after experiencing a technical issue near Santacruz station, according to a statement by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL).

**Evacuation at Santacruz Station**

The incident occurred at 2:44 pm when the train, heading towards Acharya Atre Chowk, developed a snag just before entering Santacruz station. While some passengers reported seeing smoke inside the train, MMRCL clarified that no fire or smoke was detected.

In an official statement, MMRCL said, “On Friday at 2:44 pm, a train moving towards Acharya Atre Chowk faced a technical issue while approaching Santacruz station. As a precautionary measure, the train was safely evacuated at Santacruz platform.”

**Train Shifted for Inspection**

Following the evacuation, the affected train was moved to the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) loop line for a detailed technical inspection. Although the service on the affected stretch was cancelled temporarily, all other metro services continued to operate as scheduled.

MMRCL expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and thanked them for their cooperation. “Passenger safety remains our highest priority, and necessary protocols were promptly followed to ensure safe operations,” the statement added.

**Context: Metro Line-3 Expansion**

This incident comes just months after the Acharya Atre Chowk–Aarey JVLR stretch of Metro Line-3 became operational on May 10, 2025. Prior to that, the BKC–Aarey JVLR stretch had opened on October 7, 2024.

The Aqua Line, spanning 33.5 km from Colaba to Aarey via BKC, is Mumbai’s first fully underground metro corridor. It is designed to significantly ease the city’s notorious traffic congestion.

Currently, Metro Line-3 is partially operational. According to sources, the final extension to Colaba is expected to become operational within a few weeks, completing the long-awaited corridor.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-metro-line-3-train-evacuated-near-santacruz-after-technical-snag-mmrcl-denies-fire

crime, human rights, india, justice, local news

Mumbai News: SHRC Adjourns Hearing In Ola Driver Assault Case After Victim’s Family Seeks State-Appointed Lawyer

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**Mumbai: Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission Adjourns Hearing in Ola Driver Assault Case**

The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has adjourned the hearing in the high-profile assault case involving 24-year-old Ola driver Kayumddin Qureshi. Qureshi was allegedly brutally attacked last year in Mumbai’s Park Site area by an Audi car owner.

The adjournment came after the victim’s family informed the Commission that they were unable to afford legal expenses and requested that an advocate be appointed at the cost of the state. As a result, the matter has been adjourned to January 12.

### Victim Remains Bedridden with Severe Injuries

During the proceedings, Qureshi’s mother Faimida, sister Shabina, and brother Zainuddin appeared before the Commission. The family stated that Qureshi remains bedridden following the alleged assault, which left him with a severe spinal cord injury, head trauma, and fractures in his hands and leg.

### Commission Seeks Video Verification of Health Condition

To verify the family’s claims, the Commission requested Zainuddin to connect his brother via video call. Speaking from his bed, Qureshi showed visible stitch marks on his left leg. He explained that an earlier accident had left him with a metal rod implanted in his leg. During the alleged assault, he was thrown to the ground, which damaged the rod and worsened his condition, forcing him to undergo further medical procedures.

### SHRC Took Suo Motu Cognisance After Media Report

The SHRC had earlier taken suo motu cognisance following a news report published on September 1, 2024. The report highlighted the alleged indifference of the Park Site Police Station towards the assault. It described how a police officer dismissed the incident as an act committed in a “fit of anger,” despite CCTV footage capturing the brutal attack.

### FIR Filed But No Arrests Made Yet

The incident occurred on August 18, 2024, on LBS Marg in Ghatkopar West. An FIR was eventually filed against Rishabh Bibhash Chakravorthy and Antara Ghosh under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly causing hurt, grievous hurt, criminal intimidation, and intentional insult.

However, no arrests have been made as the charges invoked carry a sentence of less than seven years, allowing the accused to secure bail immediately.

—

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-shrc-adjourns-hearing-in-ola-driver-assault-case-after-victims-family-seeks-state-appointed-lawyer

cricket, india, international, sports, west indies

1st Test: India dominate Day 2 proceedings against West Indies

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**1st Test: India Dominate Day 2 Proceedings Against West Indies**
*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 03, 2025, 05:10 PM*

The Indian cricket team ended Day 2 on a strong note against the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Resuming the day at 121/2, KL Rahul (53*) and Shubman Gill (18*) were at the crease, providing a solid platform for Team India on Friday.

### Day 2 Summary

Rahul and Gill had added an unbeaten 31 runs on Day 1, and on Day 2, they stitched together another 67 runs before Gill was dismissed for 50. Thirty runs later, Rahul fell after playing a defiant innings of 100. Following their departure, Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja took charge, building a commanding partnership of 200 runs. Jurel has already scored a century, while Jadeja is firing on all cylinders, dominating the proceedings.

### Shubman Gill Equals Sunil Gavaskar’s Record

Gill was dismissed by the opposition captain and off-spinner Roston Chase right after completing his fifty. According to Cricbuzz, the last Indian captain to score 50+ runs in their debut innings leading the team at home was none other than Sunil Gavaskar. The legendary batsman had made a spectacular 205 against West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 1978.

Playing his sixth Test as captain, Shubman Gill now owns 804 runs at an impressive average of 73.09 across 11 innings.

### Gill’s Impressive Test Stats

With this fifty, Gill has accumulated 2,697 runs from 38 Tests at an average of 41.49. His tally includes nine Test centuries and eight fifties. Notably, this was Gill’s maiden fifty in four Test innings against the West Indies. Across 18 home Tests, he has scored 1,227 runs at an average of 42.31, including ten 50-plus scores with four centuries.

### KL Rahul’s 11th Test Century

KL Rahul brought up his 11th century in Test cricket, scoring 100 off 197 balls with 12 fours. Playing his 64th Test, Rahul has now amassed 3,889 runs at an average of 36.00. He has scored 474 runs against West Indies at an average of 47.40, including two centuries and three 50-plus scores against the Caribbean side. This was Rahul’s 10th hundred as an opener.

### Rahul’s Home Record and First-Class Cricket Achievements

This century marks Rahul’s second Test hundred on home soil, where he has scored 1,249 runs at an average of 41.63. Overall, he boasts 12 scores of 50-plus in India.

In first-class cricket, Rahul is playing his 112th match and has accumulated 8,317 runs at an average of around 45. He now has 23 centuries and 39 fifties, according to ESPNcricinfo.

—

Team India’s dominant performance on Day 2 sets the tone for a commanding position in the Test, with key contributions from Rahul, Gill, Jurel, and Jadeja showcasing the depth and resilience of the batting lineup.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-test-day-2-report/story

automotive, business, holidays, india, sales

Maruti Suzuki hits decade high, delivers 1.65L vehicles this Navratri

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**Maruti Suzuki Hits Decade High, Delivers 1.65 Lakh Vehicles This Navratri**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 04:35 PM*

Maruti Suzuki has achieved a remarkable milestone by delivering a staggering 1.65 lakh vehicles in the first eight days of Navratri. This marks the first time in a decade that the company’s deliveries during the festive period have crossed the one-lakh mark, underscoring strong demand momentum. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer for Marketing and Sales, shared these insights during an interview with CNBC TV18.

**Sales Strategy and Backlog Management**

At the start of October, Maruti Suzuki was managing a backlog of nearly 2.5 lakh vehicles. To address this high demand, the company has ramped up operations significantly. Supply chain and production teams have been working on Sundays and holidays throughout the month to ensure timely deliveries. Banerjee cautioned customers that those delaying their bookings might have to wait until after the festive season for their vehicle delivery.

**Export Growth and Electric Vehicle Expansion**

Maruti Suzuki’s export numbers have also seen impressive growth, with shipments rising nearly 50% last month. Particularly notable is the export of electric vehicles (EVs), with around 3,000 units shipped to international markets including Japan, the Middle East, and European countries such as Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Switzerland. Banerjee mentioned that the company will reassess its export target of four lakh units for the year, carefully balancing overseas shipments alongside robust domestic demand.

**Shifts in Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics**

The company has observed a shift in consumer preferences, with many two-wheeler owners upgrading to entry-level cars. Additionally, existing customers are moving from models like Alto and WagonR to higher-end options such as Baleno, Fronx, and Brezza. Rural markets played a key role in this growth, accounting for 51% of sales in September—slightly surpassing urban market sales at 49%.

Market expert Mayuresh Joshi remains optimistic about Maruti Suzuki’s future prospects, citing these trends and the company’s strategic initiatives.

**Stock Performance**

Maruti Suzuki’s stock has reflected its strong performance, trading at ₹15,808 at the time of writing—a slight dip of 0.98% from the previous close. The stock has gained 6.1% over the past month and an impressive 41.3% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the Nifty 50 index, which rose by 4.5% over the same period. Over the last year, the stock has traded between ₹10,725 and ₹16,435.

With strong delivery numbers, expanded export capabilities, and changing consumer preferences, Maruti Suzuki’s outlook remains positive as it continues to capitalize on growing demand both domestically and internationally.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-delivered-whopping-1-65l-vehicles-during-navratri/story

business, entertainment, india, media, movies

Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ have no OTT buyers?

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**Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ Have No OTT Buyers?**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 03, 2025, 05:12 PM*

**What’s the Story?**

The digital rights deal for Prabhas’s upcoming film, *The Raja Saab*, is yet to be finalized. This delay has reportedly caused concern among the makers, who are actively seeking a lucrative offer for the film’s OTT rights.

**Budget Concerns: Top Platforms Reluctant to Splurge**

The production team has reportedly spent around ₹400 crore on *The Raja Saab*. However, top streaming platforms seem hesitant to invest heavily in acquiring the digital rights. They are reportedly playing hardball in negotiations, aiming to secure a lower price as the makers grow eager to close the deal.

Sources suggest, “The top platforms are not in the mood to shell out huge amounts on this horror comedy which has mostly Telugu nativity.”

**Marketing Strategy: Trailer Released to Generate Buzz**

To keep the film in the public consciousness and attract potential buyers, the makers recently released the trailer for *The Raja Saab*. While Prabhas enjoys a massive fan following worldwide, the film’s genre—a horror comedy, rather than an all-out actioner—is affecting its appeal among the wider audience.

*The Raja Saab* is slated to hit theaters on January 9, 2026.

**Film Insights: What to Know About ‘The Raja Saab’**

Directed by Maruthi, *The Raja Saab* has completed principal shooting except for one romantic song scheduled to be filmed in December. The movie has been in production for over two years and faced delays due to Prabhas’s injury and his busy schedule.

Alongside Prabhas, the film stars Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Riddhi Kumar in lead roles.

Stay tuned for more updates as the film approaches its release date.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/uncertainty-surrounds-the-raja-saab-ott-deal/story

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 much-acclaimed film *Homebound*, has recently addressed concerns and rumors suggesting that the family whose true story inspired the movie was compensated with only ₹10,000. This controversy sparked discussion on social media, prompting Ghaywan to clarify the situation.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ghaywan explained that the ₹10,000 was a personal and symbolic gesture he made to Ram Charanji (Amrit’s father) years ago during his initial research phase. He emphasized that this amount does not reflect the full remuneration the family received.

> “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 many years ago during my initial research, simply as a parting gesture,” Ghaywan wrote.

He further stressed that neither he nor the producers would reduce such a deeply personal and sensitive story to a mere pittance.

> “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.”

When asked about the exact compensation amount, Ghaywan chose not to disclose it, saying that sharing such details would disrespect the close bond he shares with Amrit and Saiyub—the original heroes of *Homebound*.

—

### About *Homebound*

*Homebound* was officially released on September 26, 2025. The film is inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay *Taking Amrit Home*. It narrates the journey of two migrant friends during India’s COVID-19 lockdown, highlighting their struggles and resilience.

The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, and has been produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. Currently, *Homebound* is India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Oscars.

To date, the movie has earned approximately ₹2.9 crore worldwide, according to Sacnilk.

—

Neeraj Ghaywan’s candid clarification aims to respect both the family’s story and their contribution while dispelling misconceptions about the compensation they received.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-family-got-only-rs-10k-director-reacts-to-rumors/story

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 responded to circulating reports claiming that the real-life family whose story inspired the movie was compensated with a mere ₹10,000.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ghaywan clarified that the ₹10,000 amount was a personal token given by him during the early stages of his research and does not represent the total compensation the family received.

**A Small Token, Not Full Compensation**

Ghaywan wrote, “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.”

Ghaywan chose not to disclose the full 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 follows the journey of two migrant friends during India’s COVID-19 lockdown and stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the movie has so far grossed ₹2.9 crore worldwide, according to Sacnilk.

*Homebound* has also been selected as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Oscars.

For further updates, follow Neeraj Ghaywan’s official posts on X.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-family-got-only-rs-10k-director-reacts-to-rumors/story

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.

—

*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.

—

*Follow Us On Social Media for More Updates*
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