Monthly Archives: February 2024
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Rishi’s Ramana Avatara to release in Telugu as well
Ramana Avatara pairs Rishi with Shubra Aiyappa and Pranitha Subash. The film is set to hit theatres shortly.
Kannada actor Rishi has not had a theatrical release since 2019’s Sarvajanikarige Suvarnavakasha. He was seen in cameos in not one, but three Kannada films – Mugilpete, One Cut Two Cut and Thurthu Nirgamana – and had a direct-to-OTT film Nodi Swamy Ivanu Irode Heege during the pandemic. His film Ramana Avatara has been ready for a while and Rishi was hoping to have it in theatres sometime in the second half of 2023, after his Telugu web series debut Shaitaan, but that did not happen.
Watch Rishi romance Shubra Aiyappa in the peppy number Rama is a Gentleman
The team is now on the lookout for a release date, with April the most likely candidate, but what’s also happening is that Ramana Avatara will no longer be just a Kannada film. It is officially a bilingual release with a Telugu version also being readied, given Rishi’s new-found popularity in those markets following the success of Shaitaan and that he is now working on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s untitled 109th project as antagonist, along with Bobby Deol. Rishi also has another Telugu film in his kitty in which he plays the lead.
Rishi’s next in Telugu is period drama along with Faria Abdullah & Thiruveer
Ramana Avatara, by director Vikas Pampapathi, is a comedy that has Rishi play the title character Rama, whose post break-up venture sees him try something to stop the migration of educated youth from his village to the city. The film also stars Shubra Aiyappa, Pranitha Subhash, Anirudha Acharya, among others, and has music by Judah Sandhy.
Ramana Avatara: Lead actor Rishi’s transition from theatre to cinema involved a lot of unlearning
Rishi, who has just wound up work on a film called Rudra Garuda Purana, in which he plays a cop yet again after Kavaludaari, has been vocal about the need to deliver on what’s been promised in his films, so that audiences do not feel cheated when they watch it in theatres. “When I say that I have made an entertainer and that I would like people to come to theatres, I have to live up to that promise,” he had said.
source: http://www.ottplay.com / OTT Play / Home> News / by Team OTT Play / February 16th, 2024
Assembly Debates Encroached Lands By Coffee Growers
MLAs want encroached lands to be leased to large holders and sanction land to small holders
Bengaluru:
Encroachment of Government land by small coffee growers in the coffee-growing regions of Kodagu was discussed in the Legislative Assembly yesterday, where Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna appealed to the Government to permanently sanction the lands to their names as they are actively cultivating crops on those lands.
Participating in a discussion on the subject, Ponnanna said that small growers in Kodagu who are cultivating coffee and other crops in two to three acres of land are facing numerous problems.
“In certain areas, small coffee growers find themselves surrounded by large private plantations, with Government land in between that has been encroached upon. According to the law, land can be leased out for up to 25 acres. Large Government lands encroached upon by major growers should be leased out by the Government,” he said.
“However, small-scale growers, who only have two to three acres of land and have encroached upon small portions of Government land, require a permanent solution. The Government should sanction the encroached land in their names to provide them with a permanent relief about their holdings,” Ponnanna explained.
Earlier, Sakleshpur MLA ‘Cement’ Manju mentioned that during the tenure when R. Ashoka served as the Revenue Minister in the previous BJP Government, a decision was made to lease the encroached Government land to coffee growers for a duration of 30 years. Unfortunately, due to a change in Government, this decision was not put into action. Therefore, he urged the Government to resume the process of leasing the land for a period of 30 years.
Later, Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda raised questions regarding why the BJP Government did not implement the leasing of land to coffee growers for 30 years. He emphasised the importance of discussing pending applications, particularly the 53rd and 57th applications, which have been awaiting decisions for 20-25 years.
He expressed satisfaction with leasing the land to Race Courses and Clubs for 30 years and wanted similar leasing to coffee growers to get permanent ownership by approving the 53rd and 57th applications. He cautioned that leasing land for 30 years could lead to future problems for the growers and suggested considering leasing the land for 99 years instead.
Intervening in the discussion, Speaker U.T. Khader said approval of land up to 3 acres for the poor could offer a permanent solution to the issue at hand.
At this point, Dr. Mantar Gowda’s father, A. Manju, who is also the JD(S) MLA from Arkalgud, intervened, questioning why the Government was hesitating to lease land to farmers while providing it for Race Courses, Resorts and Clubs.
“Why there is a delay in approving the land lease when it comes to farmers? The law prohibits leasing out land for more than 30 years. Can you take back encroached land from cultivators? It is not possible. I suggest leasing out the land to encroachers. This way, the Government would earn revenue and the lessees would benefit as well. They would also help conserve forests and contribute to the environment, he added.
Later, MLA A.S. Ponnanna spoke, urging to sanction the encroached land for small-scale coffee growers as well as to provide land for lease to large coffee growers.
What are 50th, 53rd and 57th applications?
The Bagar Hukum system, established by the State Revenue Department, requires applicants to submit Form 57 for the legalisation of agricultural land.
The Bagar Hukum scheme traces its origins back to 1980 when the Government allocated two acres of land to landless farmers for agricultural activities. However, the beneficiaries of this scheme did not receive the title deed for the land they cultivated.
Subsequently, applications were invited in the forms of Form 50 (1991), Form 53 (1999) and Form 57 (2018) under the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964. The application window extended until April 2023, exclusively for those who have been engaged in cultivation for the past 15 years.
According to Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda, who raised the issue in the Assembly, all the applications received in Form 50, Form 53 and Form 57 are pending since the last 25 years. If these applications are approved, growers can gain permanent ownership over the land.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / February 23rd, 2024
Karnataka skier from 900-m altitude village wins three golds on 4,000m high slopes of Gulmarg
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda, from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, glides over snow slopes the way fish take to water. The athlete, born in a village only 900 m above sea level, won three golds by competing on the snow slopes at an altitude of 4,000 m in the Khelo India Winter Games here on Sunday.
The lean girl from the plains near the Cauvery in Karnataka has sparkled in the winter games with her stunning ski skills. She won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint.
“It’s all about pursuing your passion. A girl from Karnataka winning winter sports in Kashmir is enough to talk about my passion. We have no snow in Karnataka. I have to work harder than those who compete from the Himalayan States,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
Passionate about mountains, Ms. Nanjunda was formally introduced to mountains when she summited Mt. Rudegera in Uttarakhand as a National Cadet Corps member in 2014. One year later in 2015, she worked through the freezing winter months for a basic course at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling, and managed to summit Renok peak.
“I work on my endurance at home by running every day. My physical activities puzzle my neighbours and friends at times. It does not stop me,” she said.
Ms. Nanjunda awaits the whole year for the winter months to visit Kashmir and hit the ski slopes. “Skiing makes me feel happy. Gulmarg is the best ski destination. I keep waiting for winter months to be here, as the place has the best slopes,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
International instructor certificate
She became a student of the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam, Kashmir, in 2019 and received an international instructor certificate in skiing in 2019. In 2020, she became a ski instructor with JIM&WS.
“Principal and the instructor at JIM&WS encouraged me to participate as a cross-country skier. I have participated in all the four editions of the Khelo India Winter games. I am happy that Karnataka has emerged as the number two State in the games this year,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
She is now preparing for the Asian Championship and Olympics. “I desire to represent India in the Olympics in 2026. India has never qualified for cross-country skiing,” she added.
The winter games in Kashmir are proving to be the platform for women, even from non-snow States of the country, to dream big in these sports. From mere four girls participating in the first edition of the winter games in Gulmarg, the number has risen to 20 this year.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India / by Peerzada Ashiq / February 25th, 2024
India’s Coffee Industry Brews Up Business Opportunities at Dubai Buyer-Seller Meet
In a significant development for the Indian coffee sector, the Coffee Board of India organised a buyer-seller meeting at Dubai, marking a new chapter in the industry’s global expansion.
The event, held on the sidelines of Gulfood 2024, was jointly organised by the Indian Embassy in UAE and the Coffee Board of India. Speaking on the Occasion, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted Dubai’s strategic role as a global trade hub, and the upcoming Bharat Mart at Jebel Ali free zone as enablers for India’s global coffee ambitions. He also emphasized Dubai’s unique position as a logistical powerhouse, boasting a busy port and efficient airport, offering an ideal platform for Indian coffee producers to showcase their diverse blends directly to international buyers and establish lasting brands.
The meeting featured a presentation by KG Jagadeesha, CEO of the Coffee Board of India, who provided a comprehensive overview of the country’s coffee industry. He highlighted the vast coffee plantations spanning over half a million hectares, supporting millions of farming families, and the impressive production and export rates that surpass domestic consumption. Jagadeesh emphasized India’s significant contribution to the international coffee market, particularly as a leading exporter of instant coffee.
India’s coffee industry, with its balanced production of Arabica and Robusta beans, has witnessed remarkable growth since the establishment of the Coffee Board in 1950. Notably, 35% of the country’s coffee exports now comprise value-added and specialty coffees, showcasing a shift towards premium offerings. India’s coffee is unique in the sense that it is shade-grown and the Robusta variety is treated at par with Arabica in the Western market. This event not only celebrated the distinct flavors and rich heritage of Indian coffee but also marked a strategic move to leverage Dubai’s logistical strengths.
source: http://www.newsonair.gov.in / News Services Division, All India Radio / February 22nd, 2024
Gulshan Devaiah: Bollywood’s Action Maestro Embarks on Another Thrilling Venture
Explore Gulshan Devaiah’s evolution in the action genre, his upcoming projects, and his fearless approach to diverse roles that captivate audiences and critics alike.
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When Gulshan Devaiah burst onto the Bollywood scene, his unique blend of intensity and versatility immediately made waves. Known for his compelling performances, Devaiah is once again set to captivate audiences, this time in an untitled action series that promises to showcase his prowess in the genre. Following his acclaimed role in ‘Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota’, where his portrayal of a man with a dual identity left viewers and critics in awe, Devaiah is eager to push the envelope further with stylized fight sequences and an adrenaline-pumping narrative.
A New Chapter in Action
Devaiah’s journey in the action genre has been both exhilarating and transformative. His upcoming project marks his second major foray into action, a genre that demands not only physical agility but also a nuanced understanding of the character’s psyche. In conversations about his preparation for the series, Devaiah has expressed excitement about exploring new dimensions of action, emphasizing the importance of stylized sequences that add depth to the narrative. The actor’s dedication to mastering complex choreography and embodying the essence of his character is indicative of his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience to viewers.
Versatility Across Genres
Aside from his ventures into action, Devaiah has demonstrated remarkable versatility across a spectrum of roles. His portrayal in the Netflix series ‘Guns and Gulaab’ received widespread acclaim, showcasing his ability to navigate the nuances of complex characters. Furthermore, his upcoming role in ‘Little Thomas’ is anticipated to reveal another facet of his talent. Directed by Kaushal Oza and featuring Rasika Dugal, ‘Little Thomas’ is described by Devaiah as a ‘detox experience’, allowing him to explore vulnerability and innocence through his character. This diversity in choice of roles underscores Devaiah’s fearless approach to acting, embodying characters that resonate with audiences on a profound level.
Looking Forward
As the release dates for the untitled action series and ‘Little Thomas’ draw near, anticipation among fans and critics alike is palpable. Devaiah’s enthusiasm for his craft and his continuous effort to challenge himself are what set him apart in an industry teeming with talent. His upcoming projects are not just a testament to his growth as an actor but also to the evolving landscape of Bollywood, where action and depth coalesce to create cinematic magic. With each role, Devaiah not only entertains but also invites viewers to delve deeper into the stories being told, making every performance a memorable one.
source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com/ BNN / Home> India / by Rafia Tasleem / February 22nd, 2024
Summer hits Karnataka’s Coorg: Wildlife enter cities in search of water in Kushalanagar taluk
Coorg district, Karnataka, famed for its greenery, faces severe water scarcity. Kushalanagar taluk, hit hardest, endanger both humans and wildlife. Shrinking water sources force wild animals into villages, disrupting livelihoods. Forest officer Ratan Kumar highlights the need for contingency plans amid the crisis.
Coorg district in Karnataka, renowned for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. As the region experiences a prolonged dry spell, both human inhabitants and wild animals are facing acute shortages of drinking water.
Kushalanagar taluk, In particular, nestled amidst semi-mountainous terrain, has been hit hard by the relentless absence of rainfall. The dire situation has led to concerns not only for the local populace but also for the myriad species of wildlife inhabiting the area.
Covering a vast expanse of 24,278.88 hectares, the forests of Kushalanagar Zone, including reserves like Dubare and Anekadu, are home to a rich assortment of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and sambar. Traditionally reliant on water sources such as the Kaveri River, Chiklihole Reservoir, and Harangi Reservoir, these creatures now find themselves confronting parched landscapes. The Kaveri River has dwindled to a mere trickle, while the Chiklihole Reservoir stands desiccated, leaving behind barren canals.
Within the forested areas, a handful of lakes remain, albeit with diminishing water levels. The scorching sun, with temperatures averaging between 29 to 30 degrees Celsius, poses a grave threat as it hastens the evaporation of these remaining water bodies.
The repercussions of this water scarcity extend beyond the confines of the forests. With wild animals compelled to seek sustenance elsewhere, instances of encroachment into nearby villages and coffee plantations have surged. Farmers, reliant on these plantations for their livelihoods, now face disruptions in their daily activities, compounded by labour shortages as workers are deterred by the unpredictable presence of wild animals.
Responding to inquiries, Ratan Kumar, the Forest Officer for Kushalanagar Zone, maintains that there is no immediate shortage of water within his jurisdiction. However, he acknowledges the pressing need for contingency plans should the situation worsen.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinay Kumar Patil / February 20th, 2024
Karnataka: Kodagu residents demand action as river Cauvery’s purity degrades to ‘C’ grade
According to the criteria, river water that has ‘A’ grade certifies the water to be good and the water can be used from the source directly after disinfection while ‘C’ grade means that the water can be used only after conventional treatment.
Madikeri :
The residents and various organisations in Kodagu submitted memorandums to the district administration demanding preservation of River Cauvery in Kodagu. As per the statistics released by the Pollution Control Board, the purity of water in Cauvery has touched ‘C’ Grade at its birth district.
According to the criteria, river water that has ‘A’ grade certifies the water to be good and the water can be used from the source directly after disinfection. However, ‘C’ grade of water level at the river base of Cauvery means that the water can be used only after conventional treatment.
“The water has been graded at ‘C’ in River Cauvery at Kushalnagar. This proves that waste water is flowing into the river from commercial buildings and other set ups. Unscientific growth of tourism has also resulted in increased waste and garbage being flown into River Cauvery. If the river is not protected, we will have to face dire situations in the near future,” shared Chandramohan, the convener of Cauvery Swachata Andolana.
The incomplete UGD work is also adding to the pollution as sullage water is being released to the river directly across Kushalnagar region, he added.
Chandramohan, alongside other members of the organization, submitted a memorandum to DC Venkat Raja demanding an action plan to preserve Cauvery.
In the memorandum, the organization demanded the administration to submit a proposal to the state for special funds to establish plans to improve the conditions of the river banks and stream banks across the district, a survey be ordered to mark the territory of River Cauvery and stringent laws be passed to keep the river clean and hygienic.
They also demanded plans to be released to preserve other water bodies in the district including the Lakshmana Theertha River.
“The authorities must release plans to preserve Cauvery and prevent pollution of the river across the 22 Grama Panchayats and one Municipality of Kushalnagar, Virajpet and Madikeri taluks,” explained Chandramohan.
DC Venkat Raja assured to submit a proposal to the state in this regard. He also assured to order a survey to determine the territory of the water bodies even as he explained that orders are already in place to complete the UGD projects shortly.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 19th, 2024
